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Fossil Feud
Not yet published
Expected 28 Jul 26The hunt for fossils—and love—is on in this steamy, STEMinist romance about two paleontologists who join forces to prevent a fraudulent dinosaur discovery, but accidentally dig up feelings for each other along the way.
Renegade paleontologist Ripley Adams is this close to digging up a fossil treasure and vindication. She’s spent the last three years in academic exile after her ex-boyfriend stole her work, betrayed her trust, and broke her heart in one fell swoop. If she can unearth a complete specimen of her newest discovery—a never-before-seen missing link between dinosaurs and birds—it will put her back on the map and finally restore her ruined reputation.
But when unfairly hot Oxford professor James Smithson crashes Ripley’s dig site, she realizes she’s not the only one searching for redemption in the Montana dirt. James is convinced a splashy new fossil is a fraud, and he needs Ripley’s help to prove it. She’d tell the buttoned-up Brit where to stick his suspicions, but the fake fossil is eerily similar to hers . . . and the fraudster is her ex.
The race is on to reveal a T-rex-sized discovery. Polar opposites Ripley and James will have to find common ground if they’re going to take down a hoax that could ruin them both. And as they dig deeper into their unlikely attraction, Ripley’s excavation boots won’t be the only things getting a little dirty. . . .
Renegade paleontologist Ripley Adams is this close to digging up a fossil treasure and vindication. She’s spent the last three years in academic exile after her ex-boyfriend stole her work, betrayed her trust, and broke her heart in one fell swoop. If she can unearth a complete specimen of her newest discovery—a never-before-seen missing link between dinosaurs and birds—it will put her back on the map and finally restore her ruined reputation.
But when unfairly hot Oxford professor James Smithson crashes Ripley’s dig site, she realizes she’s not the only one searching for redemption in the Montana dirt. James is convinced a splashy new fossil is a fraud, and he needs Ripley’s help to prove it. She’d tell the buttoned-up Brit where to stick his suspicions, but the fake fossil is eerily similar to hers . . . and the fraudster is her ex.
The race is on to reveal a T-rex-sized discovery. Polar opposites Ripley and James will have to find common ground if they’re going to take down a hoax that could ruin them both. And as they dig deeper into their unlikely attraction, Ripley’s excavation boots won’t be the only things getting a little dirty. . . .
384 pages, Paperback
Expected publication July 28, 2026
536 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
January 11, 2026
RAWWWWRRRRRRRR! THIS BOOK IS EVERYTHING!
I’m obsessed with this book. This is a dinosaur-loving romance readers wet dream in book form.
Seriously. Whats better than two idiot (complementary) paleontologists falling in love during a dinosaur bone dig!
This book is sweet and swoony. The characters are perfectly flawed with emotional depth for days. The prose is gorgeous and utterly quotable. The side characters attempt to steal the show (complementary). The character growth is top tier. It is just SO FREAKING GOOD!
He is so down bad and would do anything to help her succeed! Everyone deserves a supportive down bad man like James Smithson!
She is wounded and flawed and watching her character growth was almost as good as watching these idiots fall in love.
DID I MENTION THE DINOSAURS! because… DINOSAURS!!!!!!!!
(brace yourself this is a long list…)
Whats to love…
- STEM romance
- SLUTTTTTTTTTTTYYYYYY MMC
- slutty little glasses
- Slutty thigh tattoo
- Slutty forearms.
- slutty little glasses
- slutty little hands
- slutty little accent
- slutty little bike shorts
- lovable af side characters
- found family
- “just for the summer” agreement
- beautiful prose
- HE TIES HER SHOES
- mommy trauma (complicated family dynamics)
- coming into your own/learning to love yourself so you can love others.
Honestly I could probably keep going and give you a million reasons you should read this but instead I’m just going to say GO READ THIS RIGHT NOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
🌶️- a few open door scenes. I really loved the way the author did these. They are explicit but not overly so (if that makes sense). I’d let my teen niece read this!
| IG | TikTok |
Thank you Dell for the gifted book. All opinions are my own.
I’m obsessed with this book. This is a dinosaur-loving romance readers wet dream in book form.
Seriously. Whats better than two idiot (complementary) paleontologists falling in love during a dinosaur bone dig!
This book is sweet and swoony. The characters are perfectly flawed with emotional depth for days. The prose is gorgeous and utterly quotable. The side characters attempt to steal the show (complementary). The character growth is top tier. It is just SO FREAKING GOOD!
He is so down bad and would do anything to help her succeed! Everyone deserves a supportive down bad man like James Smithson!
She is wounded and flawed and watching her character growth was almost as good as watching these idiots fall in love.
DID I MENTION THE DINOSAURS! because… DINOSAURS!!!!!!!!
(brace yourself this is a long list…)
Whats to love…
- STEM romance
- SLUTTTTTTTTTTTYYYYYY MMC
- slutty little glasses
- Slutty thigh tattoo
- Slutty forearms.
- slutty little glasses
- slutty little hands
- slutty little accent
- slutty little bike shorts
- lovable af side characters
- found family
- “just for the summer” agreement
- beautiful prose
- HE TIES HER SHOES
- mommy trauma (complicated family dynamics)
- coming into your own/learning to love yourself so you can love others.
Honestly I could probably keep going and give you a million reasons you should read this but instead I’m just going to say GO READ THIS RIGHT NOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
🌶️- a few open door scenes. I really loved the way the author did these. They are explicit but not overly so (if that makes sense). I’d let my teen niece read this!
| IG | TikTok |
Thank you Dell for the gifted book. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
So good. So fun. And such an original concept!
A STEMinist romance about paleontology?? Immediately yes and this absolutely delivered.
I loved how fresh and unique this story felt. Fossil hunting, academic drama, professional betrayal, and romance all woven together in a way that felt smart, engaging, and genuinely exciting. Ripley is a fantastic heroine, brilliant, determined, and deeply wronged and rooting for her to reclaim both her work and her confidence was incredibly satisfying.
James was the perfect foil: buttoned-up, frustratingly attractive, and exactly the kind of rival-turned-ally that makes for delicious tension. Their chemistry sparked from the moment they teamed up, and the banter, forced proximity, and shared mission kept things moving at a great pace.
The plot itself was just as compelling as the romance. The fraud storyline added real stakes, and I loved how the science and emotional arcs complemented each other instead of competing for attention.
Smart, steamy, and refreshingly different, this was such a win for me. If you’re craving a romance with a truly original theme and strong STEM vibes, this one is a must-read!
Thank you NetGalley and Ballantine | Dell for the ARC!
A STEMinist romance about paleontology?? Immediately yes and this absolutely delivered.
I loved how fresh and unique this story felt. Fossil hunting, academic drama, professional betrayal, and romance all woven together in a way that felt smart, engaging, and genuinely exciting. Ripley is a fantastic heroine, brilliant, determined, and deeply wronged and rooting for her to reclaim both her work and her confidence was incredibly satisfying.
James was the perfect foil: buttoned-up, frustratingly attractive, and exactly the kind of rival-turned-ally that makes for delicious tension. Their chemistry sparked from the moment they teamed up, and the banter, forced proximity, and shared mission kept things moving at a great pace.
The plot itself was just as compelling as the romance. The fraud storyline added real stakes, and I loved how the science and emotional arcs complemented each other instead of competing for attention.
Smart, steamy, and refreshingly different, this was such a win for me. If you’re craving a romance with a truly original theme and strong STEM vibes, this one is a must-read!
Thank you NetGalley and Ballantine | Dell for the ARC!
January 16, 2026
i am this book's number one fan and i can't wait until people fall in love with the badass that is ripley adams and her beloved mr. darcy-esque mmc, james smithson. with found family shenanigans and a scene in the rain that i will forever be thinking about, this book is a delight.
January 12, 2026
She’s a private paleontologist ousted from academia. He’s one of the most distinguished paleontologists in the world. On paper, they couldn’t be more different — but he needs her expertise to expose a fraud. And maybe, along the way, some feelings will surface as well…
Maggie North is a phenomenal writer. Women diagnosed with autism later in life seem to have a special knack for understanding human behavior, and Maggie’s insight shines through in her characters. As someone who masked for a long time myself, I felt an immediate kinship with her perspective. Her characters are always a little odd, a little out of step — until they find the right people and the right place for them. And it’s not just romantic connections she writes beautifully; her characters also find family, belonging, and a sense of home. That, to me, is Maggie North’s greatest gift. Her books are full of people who were misunderstood, overlooked, or misjudged — and finally, after so many false starts, find the people who see them for who they truly are. It’s quietly uplifting and deeply satisfying.
The story itself was fun and immersive. I loved the dig site setting — being outside, working together, uncovering history — it felt adventurous in a way that grounded the romance in a real, tangible world. James was sweet, honorable, and easy to root for, a perfect complement to Ripley’s guarded intelligence and wit. But the heart of the story is Ripley finally letting people in after years of hurt and disappointment. Watching her open up, trust, and accept connection felt genuinely moving.
This book isn’t just a romance; it’s a story about growth, trust, and finding the people and places that make life feel complete. Maggie North does this beautifully, with depth and warmth.
Thank you to Dell and NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Maggie North is a phenomenal writer. Women diagnosed with autism later in life seem to have a special knack for understanding human behavior, and Maggie’s insight shines through in her characters. As someone who masked for a long time myself, I felt an immediate kinship with her perspective. Her characters are always a little odd, a little out of step — until they find the right people and the right place for them. And it’s not just romantic connections she writes beautifully; her characters also find family, belonging, and a sense of home. That, to me, is Maggie North’s greatest gift. Her books are full of people who were misunderstood, overlooked, or misjudged — and finally, after so many false starts, find the people who see them for who they truly are. It’s quietly uplifting and deeply satisfying.
The story itself was fun and immersive. I loved the dig site setting — being outside, working together, uncovering history — it felt adventurous in a way that grounded the romance in a real, tangible world. James was sweet, honorable, and easy to root for, a perfect complement to Ripley’s guarded intelligence and wit. But the heart of the story is Ripley finally letting people in after years of hurt and disappointment. Watching her open up, trust, and accept connection felt genuinely moving.
This book isn’t just a romance; it’s a story about growth, trust, and finding the people and places that make life feel complete. Maggie North does this beautifully, with depth and warmth.
Thank you to Dell and NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 11, 2026
SO GOOD! So so so good! This was the paleontologist romance novel I never knew I needed! I loved nearly everything about it: lovable, complex characters with realistic flaws, a griping plot, beautiful writing, a unique setting dripping with atmosphere, feminist themes, and YEARNING! Add this to your TBR immediately!
So often characters in romance novels can feel a little cartoonish or one dimensional. Riley and James were the exception. Both were so fully formed with distinct personalities, voices, past mistakes and flaws to overcome. The conflict keeping them apart was both based in reality and high stakes.
I loved the way Maggie North described their attraction. Very poetic writing. Lots of showing versus telling.
My only minor criticism is I would have liked a little more conversation between the main characters before their feelings developed. It was the tiniest bit love at first sight (admittedly).
I maybe loved the plot even more than the romance??? Who am I???
This romance novel leans more heavily towards the angst side of the emotional spectrum. I, personally, am usually seeking more of a giddy/banter feeling. But if you love longing and bittersweetness—this will probably be 5 stars for you!
Publishers: send more Dino books immediately!
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Dell for the advanced reader copy.
So often characters in romance novels can feel a little cartoonish or one dimensional. Riley and James were the exception. Both were so fully formed with distinct personalities, voices, past mistakes and flaws to overcome. The conflict keeping them apart was both based in reality and high stakes.
I loved the way Maggie North described their attraction. Very poetic writing. Lots of showing versus telling.
My only minor criticism is I would have liked a little more conversation between the main characters before their feelings developed. It was the tiniest bit love at first sight (admittedly).
I maybe loved the plot even more than the romance??? Who am I???
This romance novel leans more heavily towards the angst side of the emotional spectrum. I, personally, am usually seeking more of a giddy/banter feeling. But if you love longing and bittersweetness—this will probably be 5 stars for you!
Publishers: send more Dino books immediately!
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Dell for the advanced reader copy.
Read
January 16, 2026I read this book. For science. And I think it might be one of my favorite romances ever.
As a big fan of STEM romances - this book does not disappoint. This book is about Ripley Adams and James Smithson as they try to uncover a bird fossil and take down a rival paleontologist who is lying and stealing Ripley Adams and others work.
There are so many elements of this book that make it stand out. Trying to stand up to the messed up system that is academia and science was one element, as a person in STEM, that I found was so tragically and wonderfully done. Ripley Adams is brave and courageous but also has been stepped on over and over again. She needs this dig money. She needs to accept support. And she is fighting for it not only her own family troubles but her entire dig teams’ as well.
What else stood out? The romance. The banter. THE LOVE. The slutty forearms. Making sure shoelaces are tied. The references to her favorite dinosaurs and movies. THE PUNS. The boning (sorry I had to).
I don’t know how else to say I absolutely loved this book and I think you will too. I kicked my feet giggling and I cried and got ma. This was campy and funny and a true joy when I needed it most. So much love to Maggie North.
As a big fan of STEM romances - this book does not disappoint. This book is about Ripley Adams and James Smithson as they try to uncover a bird fossil and take down a rival paleontologist who is lying and stealing Ripley Adams and others work.
There are so many elements of this book that make it stand out. Trying to stand up to the messed up system that is academia and science was one element, as a person in STEM, that I found was so tragically and wonderfully done. Ripley Adams is brave and courageous but also has been stepped on over and over again. She needs this dig money. She needs to accept support. And she is fighting for it not only her own family troubles but her entire dig teams’ as well.
What else stood out? The romance. The banter. THE LOVE. The slutty forearms. Making sure shoelaces are tied. The references to her favorite dinosaurs and movies. THE PUNS. The boning (sorry I had to).
I don’t know how else to say I absolutely loved this book and I think you will too. I kicked my feet giggling and I cried and got ma. This was campy and funny and a true joy when I needed it most. So much love to Maggie North.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I have always dreamed of a romance novel centered around dinosaurs, so honestly? Fossil Feud already had me before I even read it, and somehow it still exceeded every expectation. This book was SO good.
First of all: dinosaurs. Fossils. Paleontology. Academia. Absolute perfection. I loved how deeply rooted the story was in the science without ever feeling overwhelming. The plot itself was genuinely intriguing and was honestly just as compelling as the romance, and that’s hard to pull off. I was fully invested in the mystery, the academic stakes, and the race to expose the fraud just as much as I was in the relationship between Ripley and James.
One of my favorite parts was how real and brutal the portrayal of academia felt, especially as a woman in STEM. The sexism, the politics, the reputation damage, and the sheer toughness required to survive it all were handled so well. Ripley’s journey of reclaiming her voice, her work, and her confidence was powerful and deeply satisfying.
And the romance? SO. GOOD. The chemistry between Ripley and James crackled from the start. James is basically Mr. Darcy if he were a scientist; reserved, principled, quietly intense, and absolutely gone for her. Perfection. This wasn’t a light, fluffy romance, and I loved that. It was angsty, emotional, and simmering, and it fit the story perfectly.
Ripley herself is an FMC who truly stands out. She’s fierce, brilliant, flawed, and resilient in a way that made me admire her so much!
Maggie North is a fantastic writer, and Fossil Feud was everything I want in a romance novel: smart, emotional, meaningful, and sweet in the best way. Dinosaurs and depth? YES PLEASE. I loved this so much. 🦖❤️📚
Thank you to NetGalley, Maggie North, and Ballantine/Dell for the eARC of this book.
First of all: dinosaurs. Fossils. Paleontology. Academia. Absolute perfection. I loved how deeply rooted the story was in the science without ever feeling overwhelming. The plot itself was genuinely intriguing and was honestly just as compelling as the romance, and that’s hard to pull off. I was fully invested in the mystery, the academic stakes, and the race to expose the fraud just as much as I was in the relationship between Ripley and James.
One of my favorite parts was how real and brutal the portrayal of academia felt, especially as a woman in STEM. The sexism, the politics, the reputation damage, and the sheer toughness required to survive it all were handled so well. Ripley’s journey of reclaiming her voice, her work, and her confidence was powerful and deeply satisfying.
And the romance? SO. GOOD. The chemistry between Ripley and James crackled from the start. James is basically Mr. Darcy if he were a scientist; reserved, principled, quietly intense, and absolutely gone for her. Perfection. This wasn’t a light, fluffy romance, and I loved that. It was angsty, emotional, and simmering, and it fit the story perfectly.
Ripley herself is an FMC who truly stands out. She’s fierce, brilliant, flawed, and resilient in a way that made me admire her so much!
Maggie North is a fantastic writer, and Fossil Feud was everything I want in a romance novel: smart, emotional, meaningful, and sweet in the best way. Dinosaurs and depth? YES PLEASE. I loved this so much. 🦖❤️📚
Thank you to NetGalley, Maggie North, and Ballantine/Dell for the eARC of this book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC!
I’ll admit the main reason I wanted to read this book was for the dinosaurs. I’ve read a few STEM romances, but not one focused on paleontology. And it was as excellent as I was hoping. The romance was sweet and I loved both of the main characters. But I think what really made Fossil Feud stand out was the science and the side characters. Sure, the romance was the main point but this was also a story about the bonds between Riley and Cara as well as their crew. The novel dealt with the issues of paleontology, academia and the way women are treated in science. I also liked the way it delved into the world of private fossil hunting versus scientific discovery.
Ripley (points for her name) is a woman who has strived to make a name for herself in a world she feels doesn’t want her. She wants to make money to help her father out as well as prove her theories. Since she was basically forced out of academia, she turned to private fossil hunting. She’s passionate about her work even as she struggles to let people in. Her friendship with Cara and her crew was a nice side plot.
James is a bit stiff and proper, but he clearly cares for Cara. Although he isn’t as passionate about his work as she is, he works hard to help Cara and her crew do what is necessary to secure funding. He’s helpful, supportive and adorable. I loved him.
I absolutely recommend this story for anyone who likes a bit of STEM with their romance reads. I read the entire book in one sitting because I wanted to see Riley and James fall in love despite the obstacles while also taking down Will, Riley’s ex and possible faker of fossils. The writing was solid, the story was fun and I’m a sucker for some paleontology romance.
5/5 stars
I’ll admit the main reason I wanted to read this book was for the dinosaurs. I’ve read a few STEM romances, but not one focused on paleontology. And it was as excellent as I was hoping. The romance was sweet and I loved both of the main characters. But I think what really made Fossil Feud stand out was the science and the side characters. Sure, the romance was the main point but this was also a story about the bonds between Riley and Cara as well as their crew. The novel dealt with the issues of paleontology, academia and the way women are treated in science. I also liked the way it delved into the world of private fossil hunting versus scientific discovery.
Ripley (points for her name) is a woman who has strived to make a name for herself in a world she feels doesn’t want her. She wants to make money to help her father out as well as prove her theories. Since she was basically forced out of academia, she turned to private fossil hunting. She’s passionate about her work even as she struggles to let people in. Her friendship with Cara and her crew was a nice side plot.
James is a bit stiff and proper, but he clearly cares for Cara. Although he isn’t as passionate about his work as she is, he works hard to help Cara and her crew do what is necessary to secure funding. He’s helpful, supportive and adorable. I loved him.
I absolutely recommend this story for anyone who likes a bit of STEM with their romance reads. I read the entire book in one sitting because I wanted to see Riley and James fall in love despite the obstacles while also taking down Will, Riley’s ex and possible faker of fossils. The writing was solid, the story was fun and I’m a sucker for some paleontology romance.
5/5 stars
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book felt like home in the best ways. The romance wove its way warmly, calmly, and then all at once around my heart and gave it the absolute best hug. It was the small moments between Ripley and James that burrowed deep into my soul and kept me captivated as I experienced their love alongside them. Fossil Feud had some absolutely amazing lines that I had to highlight and save because those are the lines you want to look back on when you feel at your lowest and remember that grand romance still exists.
I love when a book and its characters make you feel - when you can feel that adoration, want, need, and desperation right along side them. Maggie did an excellent job of making me feel everything Ripley did, including loving every awkward, real, endearing piece of James.
And I of course, have to mention the dinosaurs, fossils, STEM aspects, and scientific facts. I gobbled it all up and loved every second (do I need more paleontology books in my life?!? Absolutely! Send them all to me!). The plot balanced out so nicely with the character development, the romance, the spice, and even the side characters. I truly enjoyed this read and it made me want to take my time while reading, to take a minute and reflect, to slow down, and to feel like I was falling in love with the characters as they feel in love with each other.
When you're looking for a world shattering romance, that leaves you with the warmest feelings begging for a love that will outlast the fossils - this is the book you pick up.
I received an eARC of this book, but any reviews are entirely my own. Thank you to Netgalley, Maggie, and Ballantine/Dell for the copy.
I love when a book and its characters make you feel - when you can feel that adoration, want, need, and desperation right along side them. Maggie did an excellent job of making me feel everything Ripley did, including loving every awkward, real, endearing piece of James.
And I of course, have to mention the dinosaurs, fossils, STEM aspects, and scientific facts. I gobbled it all up and loved every second (do I need more paleontology books in my life?!? Absolutely! Send them all to me!). The plot balanced out so nicely with the character development, the romance, the spice, and even the side characters. I truly enjoyed this read and it made me want to take my time while reading, to take a minute and reflect, to slow down, and to feel like I was falling in love with the characters as they feel in love with each other.
When you're looking for a world shattering romance, that leaves you with the warmest feelings begging for a love that will outlast the fossils - this is the book you pick up.
I received an eARC of this book, but any reviews are entirely my own. Thank you to Netgalley, Maggie, and Ballantine/Dell for the copy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
✨️Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for sending me this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
You know that nostalgic feeling when you watch Jurassic Park, if your chasing that feeling then this book is for you.
This book is focused on two paleontologists, who are both trying to find themselves while actively trying to avoid their tension and attraction to each other. As someone who loves the Alien movie series way too much, I fell in love with Ripley. She is a woman who has so much heart and grit, fighting for her chance in the male dominated world of Paleontology and doing so by going after what she knows to be true in her with her fossil dig site. Then you have James, the world famous British paleontologists who on paper has everything that Ripley ever dreamed of and has only met her ONCE and is now busting into her town to get her help.
The story is so intriguing and entertaining, the world of fossil digs, the private vs scholar division and the overall drama was a thrill to read. The romance was absolutely top notch, the tension and yearning from each side was award level. I loved the fossil dig crew, each bringing their own personality and like a young duckling to Ripley and becoming her found family.
Highly recommend this one, its one of my favorites that I have read because its new side of STEM romance that I have never ventured into but the 90s kid in me who loved dinosaurs (and still does) feels like this hit all the marks.
You know that nostalgic feeling when you watch Jurassic Park, if your chasing that feeling then this book is for you.
This book is focused on two paleontologists, who are both trying to find themselves while actively trying to avoid their tension and attraction to each other. As someone who loves the Alien movie series way too much, I fell in love with Ripley. She is a woman who has so much heart and grit, fighting for her chance in the male dominated world of Paleontology and doing so by going after what she knows to be true in her with her fossil dig site. Then you have James, the world famous British paleontologists who on paper has everything that Ripley ever dreamed of and has only met her ONCE and is now busting into her town to get her help.
The story is so intriguing and entertaining, the world of fossil digs, the private vs scholar division and the overall drama was a thrill to read. The romance was absolutely top notch, the tension and yearning from each side was award level. I loved the fossil dig crew, each bringing their own personality and like a young duckling to Ripley and becoming her found family.
Highly recommend this one, its one of my favorites that I have read because its new side of STEM romance that I have never ventured into but the 90s kid in me who loved dinosaurs (and still does) feels like this hit all the marks.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
STEM FMC: paleobiologist; STEM MMC: taxonomy paleontologist
This book was so fun! If you have read and enjoyed Raiders of the Lost Heart by Jo Segura, this book reminds me a lot of that book: professional STEM rivals to lovers, he wears slutty little glasses, and there's some forced proximity dig site cabin shenanigans. Raiders is one of my favorite books, so this comparison is not just in terms of trope similarities but also overall vibes and the message that women in STEM are badasses and fully belong there.
I love reading a STEM romance in a field that I'm not super familiar with because it gives me a chance to learn a little about a topic that I wouldn't normally have dived into on my own. Fossils are so freaking cool!
Ripley is strong and resilient, and James is down so bad. As a woman in STEM myself, I love seeing these types of romances where not only does the HEA apply to her love life but to her professional life as well (and James's professional life, too). The discussions between the MCs about academia and the pursuit of happiness in their careers is incredibly real. The HEA is complete; I love a well tied-up story!
This is my first book by Maggie, but I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was well-written, had an engaging plot, and the spice was perfect. I'll be digging into her backlist to read more from her!
This book was so fun! If you have read and enjoyed Raiders of the Lost Heart by Jo Segura, this book reminds me a lot of that book: professional STEM rivals to lovers, he wears slutty little glasses, and there's some forced proximity dig site cabin shenanigans. Raiders is one of my favorite books, so this comparison is not just in terms of trope similarities but also overall vibes and the message that women in STEM are badasses and fully belong there.
I love reading a STEM romance in a field that I'm not super familiar with because it gives me a chance to learn a little about a topic that I wouldn't normally have dived into on my own. Fossils are so freaking cool!
Ripley is strong and resilient, and James is down so bad. As a woman in STEM myself, I love seeing these types of romances where not only does the HEA apply to her love life but to her professional life as well (and James's professional life, too). The discussions between the MCs about academia and the pursuit of happiness in their careers is incredibly real. The HEA is complete; I love a well tied-up story!
This is my first book by Maggie, but I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was well-written, had an engaging plot, and the spice was perfect. I'll be digging into her backlist to read more from her!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
THIS BOOK IS ABSOLUTELY PERFECT. I dig it. 🧑🔬⛏️🦴🦖
Pun absolutely intended. Seriously go add this to your TBR right now.
It’s giving early Ali Hazelwood vibes while being completely new and original. And Riley and James. I’m dying. Their love for each other was perfect. James!! The loyalty!!
Synopsis: Paleontologist Ripley Adams is one fossil away from saving her career and sticking it to her terrible ex who stole her research and wrecked her reputation. Three years in academic exile is long enough.
Enter James Smithson: unfairly attractive, maddeningly proper Oxford professor who crashes her Montana dig claiming a headline-making fossil is a fraud. Ripley would happily bury him in the dirt… except the fake looks a lot like her own discovery, and the fraudster just happens to be her thieving ex.
Now Ripley and James, total opposites with zero chill around each other, have to team up to expose the hoax before it ruins them both. As the digging gets deeper, so does the chemistry ✨
What to enjoy:
🦖STEM romance
💚He falls first
🦖My darling
💚Shoe tying, who knew that could be hot?
🦖Forced proximity
💚Slutty little glasses
🦖Slutty thigh tattoo
💚Tension and yearning
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the eArc!
Pun absolutely intended. Seriously go add this to your TBR right now.
It’s giving early Ali Hazelwood vibes while being completely new and original. And Riley and James. I’m dying. Their love for each other was perfect. James!! The loyalty!!
Synopsis: Paleontologist Ripley Adams is one fossil away from saving her career and sticking it to her terrible ex who stole her research and wrecked her reputation. Three years in academic exile is long enough.
Enter James Smithson: unfairly attractive, maddeningly proper Oxford professor who crashes her Montana dig claiming a headline-making fossil is a fraud. Ripley would happily bury him in the dirt… except the fake looks a lot like her own discovery, and the fraudster just happens to be her thieving ex.
Now Ripley and James, total opposites with zero chill around each other, have to team up to expose the hoax before it ruins them both. As the digging gets deeper, so does the chemistry ✨
What to enjoy:
🦖STEM romance
💚He falls first
🦖My darling
💚Shoe tying, who knew that could be hot?
🦖Forced proximity
💚Slutty little glasses
🦖Slutty thigh tattoo
💚Tension and yearning
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the eArc!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
When I found out that Maggie North’s latest book, Fossil Feud, was available, I absolutely sprinted to request it. Having helped with the cover reveal, I’ve been obsessed with Ripley and James long before this book actually wound up in my hands. And now that I’ve finished it- be still, my sweet dinosaur-loving heart!
This is one of the most unique settings I’ve ever read for a romance- a fossil dig site. But the romance between Ripley and James truly bloomed throughout their season of exploration together. A British man with a dinosaur obsession?? Sign me UP. Having been to the Royal Tyrrell museum in Alberta, I especially loved seeing Ripley and James venture there! It’s seriously the coolest place.
Ripley’s own history as a woman in STEM is less than ideal, and I’m glad that Maggie told that part of the story as well. It’s not a spoiler to say that Will is the WORST. Justice for young Ripley and for all the women in STEM whose voices feel minimized by their male counterparts. And I’m so happy she has her own happy ending- in more ways than just romantic!
Thank you to Ballantine and Dell for the opportunity to read and review this book! I received a free advance copy of this book via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
This is one of the most unique settings I’ve ever read for a romance- a fossil dig site. But the romance between Ripley and James truly bloomed throughout their season of exploration together. A British man with a dinosaur obsession?? Sign me UP. Having been to the Royal Tyrrell museum in Alberta, I especially loved seeing Ripley and James venture there! It’s seriously the coolest place.
Ripley’s own history as a woman in STEM is less than ideal, and I’m glad that Maggie told that part of the story as well. It’s not a spoiler to say that Will is the WORST. Justice for young Ripley and for all the women in STEM whose voices feel minimized by their male counterparts. And I’m so happy she has her own happy ending- in more ways than just romantic!
Thank you to Ballantine and Dell for the opportunity to read and review this book! I received a free advance copy of this book via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
warning: contains a fraudulent dinosaur debacle with a romance plot line that should have gone extinct
୨ৎ 3 stars, excellent stem atmosphere. I thought palentology was such an original concept for a stem romance, and I love how it contributed to the microtrope where the male love interest falls for (rather than is intimidated by) the female protagonist's intellect.
However, I felt that the male love interest, despite being a hot British Oxford professor, was quite lukewarm, and the academic politics were not used to their fullest potential. as a women in stem, I felt that it had all the puzzle pieces for a smash hit, but in reality it failed to sell me on the love story and the chemistry, primarily due to the lack of banter and flirting. In addition, some of the interpersonal conflicts were overdramatized and farfetched.
thank you to Ballantine for the ebook arc in exchange for an honest review
source: netgalley ebook arc
୨ৎ 3 stars, excellent stem atmosphere. I thought palentology was such an original concept for a stem romance, and I love how it contributed to the microtrope where the male love interest falls for (rather than is intimidated by) the female protagonist's intellect.
However, I felt that the male love interest, despite being a hot British Oxford professor, was quite lukewarm, and the academic politics were not used to their fullest potential. as a women in stem, I felt that it had all the puzzle pieces for a smash hit, but in reality it failed to sell me on the love story and the chemistry, primarily due to the lack of banter and flirting. In addition, some of the interpersonal conflicts were overdramatized and farfetched.
thank you to Ballantine for the ebook arc in exchange for an honest review
source: netgalley ebook arc
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to NetGalley and Ballantine for this ARC.
This is my first Maggie North novel and first STEM romance novel.
I can now say I am a fan of both.
There were so many fun elements to this book, and so many that rang true.
Academic rivalry and banter blend together so well, and the author excelled at it.
The romance between the two main characters, Ripley and James, is balanced between aching and admiration, and I couldn’t get enough.
Even when tensions were high, there was no gut-sinking feeling that things were gonna completely crash.
I couldn’t put it down.
I highly recommend this to anyone who’s a fan of the romance genre, likes dinosaurs, or both.
Really, read this. For science.
This is my first Maggie North novel and first STEM romance novel.
I can now say I am a fan of both.
There were so many fun elements to this book, and so many that rang true.
Academic rivalry and banter blend together so well, and the author excelled at it.
The romance between the two main characters, Ripley and James, is balanced between aching and admiration, and I couldn’t get enough.
Even when tensions were high, there was no gut-sinking feeling that things were gonna completely crash.
I couldn’t put it down.
I highly recommend this to anyone who’s a fan of the romance genre, likes dinosaurs, or both.
Really, read this. For science.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was such a fun, unique concept! Paleontology romances NEED to be a more widely written trope in the romance genre. This book was intriguing and exciting from the start, blending science, academia, and romance in a way that felt both engaging and heartfelt. I don’t know much about paleontology, so it was really cool to learn more about the field, and the connections to real-life cases were especially interesting. I loved the chemistry between James and Ripley, though the slow burn was a bit too slow in my opinion.
Overall, this was a great book and definitely one to pick up if you love STEM romances - 4.5 stars!
Thank you to Maggie North, Ballantine | Dell, and NetGalley for providing me with an eARC of this book!
#FossilFeud #NetGalley
Overall, this was a great book and definitely one to pick up if you love STEM romances - 4.5 stars!
Thank you to Maggie North, Ballantine | Dell, and NetGalley for providing me with an eARC of this book!
#FossilFeud #NetGalley
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you, NetGalley and Ballantine, for the eARC in exchange for my honest review!
I had a grat tim when I was chickacrit reading Fossil Feud. Honestly, if this didn't have the miscommunication trope and a third-act breakup, it would be five stars for me. I would simply pass away if a man ever yearned for me the way James yearned for Ripley; that man was down bad for her.
I also really enjoyed learning about fossils and genus types for dinosaurs! The author's note at the beginning explains just how much effort Maggie North put into this novel with her research and study of paleontology, and it shows. This was my first book of hers and I want to read more!
If you're into Ali Hazelwood and other STEMinist kinds of stories, Fossil Feud is right up your alley.
I had a grat tim when I was chickacrit reading Fossil Feud. Honestly, if this didn't have the miscommunication trope and a third-act breakup, it would be five stars for me. I would simply pass away if a man ever yearned for me the way James yearned for Ripley; that man was down bad for her.
I also really enjoyed learning about fossils and genus types for dinosaurs! The author's note at the beginning explains just how much effort Maggie North put into this novel with her research and study of paleontology, and it shows. This was my first book of hers and I want to read more!
If you're into Ali Hazelwood and other STEMinist kinds of stories, Fossil Feud is right up your alley.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
One thing about me is that I’m a sucker for a good STEM romance and Fossil Feud did not disappoint. This story follows Ripley Adams, a paleontologist, struggling to excavate her big discovery due to time constraints, lack of funds, family health concerns and a (trash) ex-boyfriend. Enter James (Smithson,but we call him James) initially coming aboard the dig to right a wrong. Key word being initially. This was a solid STEM romance, I definitely wanted to keep reading to see what happened next, my only qualm is that there isn’t a book 2 I can read immediately. I hadn’t heard of Maggie North before this book but I will be on the look out for more of her books!
Would recommend! 4/5 ⭐️
*Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC
Would recommend! 4/5 ⭐️
*Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Fossil Feud by Maggie North was such a fun read and immediately reminded me of early Ali Hazelwood—in the best way. The romance hits all the right notes: the spice is excellent, the male lead is completely swoon-worthy, and the female lead feels genuine and refreshingly not annoying. It’s a smart, STEMinist story centered on paleontologists, and the science and romance balance each other really well. While the very slight third-act breakup felt like a familiar (and personally frustrating) rom-com trope, it didn’t take away from how much I enjoyed the book overall. I really hope this gets a warm welcome from romance readers—Ali Hazelwood is a tough comparison, and Maggie North absolutely rises to the challenge. I still want this book on my shelf and still want everyone to read it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
HI HELLO I wrote this book and here's what I put in it:
- a down bad British man with uptight Mr. Darcy vibes, a variety of slutty accessories (glasses: check; wristwatch: HELLO THERE), and a tortured backstory. Oh and he rides a white horse
- a renegade paleontologist who's got
- yearning, angst, banter banter banter
- all the fossils!
For a list of content considerations, please visit the Books section of my website at https://maggienorth.com . Happy reading!
- a down bad British man with uptight Mr. Darcy vibes, a variety of slutty accessories (glasses: check; wristwatch: HELLO THERE), and a tortured backstory. Oh and he rides a white horse
- a renegade paleontologist who's got
- yearning, angst, banter banter banter
- all the fossils!
For a list of content considerations, please visit the Books section of my website at https://maggienorth.com . Happy reading!
January 11, 2026
5 stars for my favorite book so far in 2026. The FMM and MMC are perfect. James (MMC) is a swoon-worthy British paleontologist who is like Mr. Darcy if he was a scientist. I am OBSESSED with him. Ripley (FMM) is a fossil hunter who was kicked out of her paleontology PhD program after her ex stole her work and is a force to be reckoned with. I adore her.
I need EVERYONE to buy this book because I know you are going to love it too. Even though I got an ARC, I will be buying this book for my shelf.
Thank you to NetGalley and Ballantine for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
I need EVERYONE to buy this book because I know you are going to love it too. Even though I got an ARC, I will be buying this book for my shelf.
Thank you to NetGalley and Ballantine for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
January 20, 2026
Crying about dinosaurs ✅ crying about sexism in academia ✅ crying about yearning ✅ crying with joy ✅
This book is such a LOVE story. It’s a romance, yes, but it’s also a love letter to passion and heart and longing. To caring about people and your dreams enough to break your own heart.
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
I literally stayed up until 2am reading this. James Smithson the man that you are!!! Ripley Adams I would commit heinous crimes for you!!!!
The crew, the location, the weather and the history and the sheer drive to keep discovering are all their own characters. I felt like I was actually kneeling in the sun and the dirt and the peaceful solitude with them. There’s such joy and comeraderie, such glee and excitement and support. Even when things go awry and feel scary and hopeless, the team has each other’s backs in a way that can only be described as instinctual. They don’t hesitate for a second.
I genuinely had SO MUCH FUN reading this. I want to go to a museum. I want to go to the library and check out a bunch of books about dinosaurs. I want it to be warm enough to go outside and dig in my back yard like a kid who was convinced there would be a t-Rex just under my Minnesota lawn.
This book felt physically hopeful and heartfelt and warm, and was exactly what I needed to read right now. What a delight. What a wonderous, joyful adventure.
This book is such a LOVE story. It’s a romance, yes, but it’s also a love letter to passion and heart and longing. To caring about people and your dreams enough to break your own heart.
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
I literally stayed up until 2am reading this. James Smithson the man that you are!!! Ripley Adams I would commit heinous crimes for you!!!!
The crew, the location, the weather and the history and the sheer drive to keep discovering are all their own characters. I felt like I was actually kneeling in the sun and the dirt and the peaceful solitude with them. There’s such joy and comeraderie, such glee and excitement and support. Even when things go awry and feel scary and hopeless, the team has each other’s backs in a way that can only be described as instinctual. They don’t hesitate for a second.
I genuinely had SO MUCH FUN reading this. I want to go to a museum. I want to go to the library and check out a bunch of books about dinosaurs. I want it to be warm enough to go outside and dig in my back yard like a kid who was convinced there would be a t-Rex just under my Minnesota lawn.
This book felt physically hopeful and heartfelt and warm, and was exactly what I needed to read right now. What a delight. What a wonderous, joyful adventure.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Maggie did something so special with Fossil Feud. I love stem romance but never have I swooned so hard AND cried in a stem book before!
The depth these characters had and the way they were able to talk about their flaws and move on was so empowering to read.
Not only is he so down bad for her- he has slutty little glasses and a thigh tattoo. But most importantly the RESPECT he shows for her career and life 🥹 I hope everyone finds their James one day
Thank you so much Maggie and Dell Romance for the eArc! Please please please read this book when it comes out July 28th
The depth these characters had and the way they were able to talk about their flaws and move on was so empowering to read.
Not only is he so down bad for her- he has slutty little glasses and a thigh tattoo. But most importantly the RESPECT he shows for her career and life 🥹 I hope everyone finds their James one day
Thank you so much Maggie and Dell Romance for the eArc! Please please please read this book when it comes out July 28th
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was so good!! I didn’t really know what to expect from a paleontology romance but this was great. I really enjoyed how the author didn’t get carried away with terminology and information but gave just enough. I loved both main characters and the yearning was perfect. The ex in this story was perfectly executed as well making you want to jump in to the book just to punch him!!! This was a first read for me from this author but I am definitely interested in reading more!
** Thank you Net Galley and Ballantine for the chance to read and review this book***
4.5/5🦖
** Thank you Net Galley and Ballantine for the chance to read and review this book***
4.5/5🦖
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
i studied a bit of archaeology in college so fossil feud by scratched an itch i didn’t know i had! this was another ARC read for me and i thoroughly enjoyed it. the story itself was SO interesting and i can tell the author did a lot of research into paleontology. i LOVED ripley, she was the ideal woman in STEM! and james with his slutty little nerd glasses 🥵 if you’re a fan of ali hazelwood books, i definitely recommend giving this one a read when it comes out!!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you Netgalley for the arc!
This book was so so good and I'm so glad I picked it up. When I first saw the title and read the summary of this book I was immediately interested as a romance about paleontologists seemed like so much fun. This was such a refreshing, unique read for me and I loved the characters and their relationship so much. I will definitely be picking up more books from the author.
This book was so so good and I'm so glad I picked it up. When I first saw the title and read the summary of this book I was immediately interested as a romance about paleontologists seemed like so much fun. This was such a refreshing, unique read for me and I loved the characters and their relationship so much. I will definitely be picking up more books from the author.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3.75/5 rounded up.
This was so fun and cute! I always love a nerd-centered rom-com.
This is a story of fossils, stolen credit, ex drama, a historical scientific discovery, and an opposites attract dynamic (which I also always love).
This felt like a very unique premise to me and I really enjoyed that. And who didn't have a dinosaur obsession? This was a lot of fun. I would definitely recommend!
Thanks to NetGalley for the e-ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
This was so fun and cute! I always love a nerd-centered rom-com.
This is a story of fossils, stolen credit, ex drama, a historical scientific discovery, and an opposites attract dynamic (which I also always love).
This felt like a very unique premise to me and I really enjoyed that. And who didn't have a dinosaur obsession? This was a lot of fun. I would definitely recommend!
Thanks to NetGalley for the e-ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I loved this! It reminded me of Jo Segura, Love Quest by Camilla Isley and Ali Hazelwood. I love a book about women in STEM and this one delivered. I loved the characters; I don't like it when the FMC in a male dominated field gets boxed into a specific personality where she's not willing to show any vulnerability/have feelings, and I felt like Ripley's character was done well. Overall, just a great read that I didn't want to put down.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Maggie North writes some of my favorite romances and this one is no different. It's as wonderfully nerdy as you would expect, while also being extremely steamy and achingly romantic. Like, it's just so genius to combine dinosaurs and fossils and romance. It is such a fantastic book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Enjoyed this book a lot. It was different and refreshing. Even if it was hard to swallow the insta-love, I loved the rest of it. Leaving a long term relationship after falling in love with a rando he’d known for 90 seconds? Kinda ridiculous. But everything else was great.
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