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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
1094 people want to read
About the author
Maggie North
3 books325 followersMaggie North writes deeply emotional, strangely hilarious novels about introverts at the end of their [expletive] ropes, STEM, Canada, and other overlooked, underrated things you'd love to discover. She enjoys being autistic a lot more since her diagnosis as an adult. She lives in Ottawa, Canada with her spouse, The Kid, and a rotating cast of hypoallergenic aquarium friends.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 132 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
Thank you to Maggie North, Dell, and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
5 / 5 ⭐️
2 / 5 🌶️
I looooved this book. It was such a refreshing take on a STEMinist type of romance! If you enjoy Ali Hazelwood's work, fossils, and/or academic rivals to lovers romance, then I highly recommend this one!
Ripley Adams is our FMC, who is just trying to make a name for herself in the paleontology world! I felt that she was such an intelligent, strong-hearted FMC. She was wronged by another paleontologist (who happens to also be her ex!), and she is very determined to make everything right. I loved her character so much!
And don't even get me started on the MMC.... Holy.
James. Smithson.
World renowned paleontologist. Just comes waltzing up to her dig site. On a horse.
What an entry!
I LOVED James. He was witty, charismatic, and so very swoon-worthy. Dear God. That man was one of the highlights of this book for me!
I also loved the side characters! Cara is a sweetheart and must be protected at all costs.
The tension between them was impeccable. I ate it all up. Left no crumbs.
In all, this book felt like such a breath of fresh air. Highly recommend!
♡ pre-read ♡
y'all. i wanted to be a paleontologist when i was a kid. this book called to me. SOOOO excited to start this one!
5 / 5 ⭐️
2 / 5 🌶️
I looooved this book. It was such a refreshing take on a STEMinist type of romance! If you enjoy Ali Hazelwood's work, fossils, and/or academic rivals to lovers romance, then I highly recommend this one!
Ripley Adams is our FMC, who is just trying to make a name for herself in the paleontology world! I felt that she was such an intelligent, strong-hearted FMC. She was wronged by another paleontologist (who happens to also be her ex!), and she is very determined to make everything right. I loved her character so much!
And don't even get me started on the MMC.... Holy.
James. Smithson.
World renowned paleontologist. Just comes waltzing up to her dig site. On a horse.
What an entry!
I LOVED James. He was witty, charismatic, and so very swoon-worthy. Dear God. That man was one of the highlights of this book for me!
I also loved the side characters! Cara is a sweetheart and must be protected at all costs.
The tension between them was impeccable. I ate it all up. Left no crumbs.
In all, this book felt like such a breath of fresh air. Highly recommend!
♡ pre-read ♡
y'all. i wanted to be a paleontologist when i was a kid. this book called to me. SOOOO excited to start this one!
March 2, 2026
Really cute STEM romance between two paleontologists
Montana in the summer. Searching for dinosaurs. A hot British professor begging her to help him take down her ex. What’s not to love?
Montana in the summer. Searching for dinosaurs. A hot British professor begging her to help him take down her ex. What’s not to love?
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.
March 5, 2026
« Love knows no time. My bones will find yours. »
I loved this!!!! First of all, how cool is it that the author is an anaesthesiologist?? I love me a good STEM romance and this hit the spot. This is definitely a book to pick up for this summer, as the protagonists have a « just for the summer » fling.
I loved Ripley, the fmc, she’s resilient, and stands for herself. I related to her VERY hyper-independent behaviour and she also had people-pleasing tendencies.
James…what a pathetic yearning man.
I really enjoyed the political subtext whether it was about mansplaining, misogyny in STEM or even the colonialism of Native American lands.
Maggie’s writing was beautiful, it’s at the crossroads of practical scientific writing and poetry which is, again, right up my alley. There were so many innuendos, and references to earlier quotes in the book. I’m definitely going to look into the rest of her books.
Here’s some of the quotes I highlighted:
« Life finds a way. »
« She writes professional emails without using a single exclamation mark. »
« If you ever need me—in any place, at any time, from any distance-you need only ask for me, and I will find you, Ripley. »
If you enjoy having trope lists, here’s one for this book:
- found family
- he has glasses he takes off to kiss her
- academic rivals (kind of?) to lovers
- workplace romance
- third act breakup
- slutty thigh tattoo
Thanks to NetGalley for the eARC.
I loved this!!!! First of all, how cool is it that the author is an anaesthesiologist?? I love me a good STEM romance and this hit the spot. This is definitely a book to pick up for this summer, as the protagonists have a « just for the summer » fling.
I loved Ripley, the fmc, she’s resilient, and stands for herself. I related to her VERY hyper-independent behaviour and she also had people-pleasing tendencies.
James…what a pathetic yearning man.
I really enjoyed the political subtext whether it was about mansplaining, misogyny in STEM or even the colonialism of Native American lands.
Maggie’s writing was beautiful, it’s at the crossroads of practical scientific writing and poetry which is, again, right up my alley. There were so many innuendos, and references to earlier quotes in the book. I’m definitely going to look into the rest of her books.
Here’s some of the quotes I highlighted:
« Life finds a way. »
« She writes professional emails without using a single exclamation mark. »
« If you ever need me—in any place, at any time, from any distance-you need only ask for me, and I will find you, Ripley. »
If you enjoy having trope lists, here’s one for this book:
- found family
- he has glasses he takes off to kiss her
- academic rivals (kind of?) to lovers
- workplace romance
- third act breakup
- slutty thigh tattoo
Thanks to NetGalley for the eARC.
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!
February 18, 2026
I LOVEDDDDD this book. I say this a lot BUT one of my absolute favorites of this month and the year so far. I ate this up so fast and immediately wanted more.This is a STEMinist romance about two paleontologists (YES DINOSAURS) who team up to stop a fraudulent fossil discovery, and of course end up accidentally digging up feelings along the way. And it’s the perfect mix of smart ,steamy,funny,satisfying.We follow Ripley Adams, a renegade paleontologist who’s been stuck in basically academic exile for the last three years after her trash ex-boyfriend stole her work, ruined her reputation, and broke her heart. She’s so close to proving herself again by uncovering a huge discovery a missing link between dinosaurs and birds and if she can pull it off, it could change everything for her career.James Smithson, an unfairly hot Oxford professor who shows up at her dig site like he owns the place. He’s convinced a new fossil making headlines is fake, and he needs Ripley’s help to prove it. Ripley is obviously NOT thrilled about this British man barging into her life but the more they work together, the more the tension turns into something else 👀And on top of the romance, there’s actual plot!! There’s a race to expose the hoax, the ex is involved, the stakes are high, and the chemistry is so good. Like, this book is giving: enemies to lovers, forced proximity, polar opposites, competent woman in STEM getting her moment, and a man who is DOWN BAD.Also the writing made me laugh, the banter hit, and the romance was everything I could have asked for in a romance book.
If you want a romance with dinosaurs, revenge, and two nerds falling hard? Read this immediately. One of my top reads for sure. 🦴🦕 🦖
If you want a romance with dinosaurs, revenge, and two nerds falling hard? Read this immediately. One of my top reads for sure. 🦴🦕 🦖
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.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Fossil Feud is an utterly original, super fun and bingeable romance that absolutely consumed me. Fans of Jurassic Park and Night at the Museum, you will fall madly in love with this swoony book. I was looking for something fun, this delivered on every single front. As much as I had a blast reading this one there was also a lot of emotional depth, healing and growth throughout the novel that I highly appreciated. This book does not solely focus on romance, the plot is plotting and it is super fun to follow along. It added stakes to the story and made me even more hooked. Once the romance is thrown in it just adds another layer and makes it that much more enjoyable. What I have to applaud North for is her amazing research for this book, absolutely outstanding. The terminology, the dinosaur names, the history, the paleontology (which she took some liberties in), but ultimately everything felt so real and true to life.
Ripley & James are two highly flawed characters with a lot of baggage. They each bring their struggles to the budding romance but eventually learn to overcome them together. The blending of the spice which is not overly spicy with the plot, it was honestly perfection. I absolutely commend the author on how she approached the spicy scenes. It never overshadowed the plot but it made the relationship and physical part of their relationship evolve and feel authentic.
Overall, I loved how unique and fresh this story felt to me. It was so different from anything I've read before and I needed it. The fun I had reading this book will definitely be marked in my brain. Having read all of Maggie's books this is by far my favorite of hers. Her prose was beautiful, her storytelling skills immaculate and the originality of the storyline chefs kiss!
✨️ Thank you to @netgalley, @dellromance & @maggienorth for my gifted ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Ripley & James are two highly flawed characters with a lot of baggage. They each bring their struggles to the budding romance but eventually learn to overcome them together. The blending of the spice which is not overly spicy with the plot, it was honestly perfection. I absolutely commend the author on how she approached the spicy scenes. It never overshadowed the plot but it made the relationship and physical part of their relationship evolve and feel authentic.
Overall, I loved how unique and fresh this story felt to me. It was so different from anything I've read before and I needed it. The fun I had reading this book will definitely be marked in my brain. Having read all of Maggie's books this is by far my favorite of hers. Her prose was beautiful, her storytelling skills immaculate and the originality of the storyline chefs kiss!
✨️ Thank you to @netgalley, @dellromance & @maggienorth for my gifted ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 3, 2026
4.5 stars! Honestly if I wasn’t in a slump it would easily be 5 stars so that’s my fault. There’s nothing to hate. I felt connected to the characters and their story was so cute. I didn’t think a book about fossils and romance would make me cry but I did tear up a bit. Don’t worry tho it’s a happy ending. HIGHLY recommend! Best decision of my life.
March 4, 2026
5/5 ✨
Review of Advance Copy Received from NetGalley
Dinosaurs may be extinct but the tension is absolutely thriving.
Listen, I know archeology/paleontology may not sound all to thrilling. But this book makes it work, and I think I know why: it’s incredibly well-rounded. Not too heavy on the science, not too heavy on the romance, and packed with just the right amount of entertainment.
Ripley embodies someone who’s been burned but refuses to walk away from what she loves. While James is absolutely driven to do the right thing - even if it costs him is reputation. They’re tasked with navigating academic fraud, a race to unearth a beautiful fossil, AND their undeniable chemistry.
This is a perfect summer romance read, and I highly encourage anyone who’s even slightly interested to pick it up and give it a try.
I have to admit, a wave of nostalgia hit me while reading. My aunt and uncle are professors of anthropology, and I grew up fascinated by their work. I was always excited when they had another cool fossil to show off during visits. I truly appreciate the care and research poured into this story even more because of them; I can feel how much love the author put into it.🦕
Tropes
~ Crush to Enemies to Friends to Lovers (wild - stick with me here)
~ Western-esque vibes
~ Workplace romance
A special thank you to Ballantine, Maggie North, and NetGalley for this ARC.🫶🏻
Review of Advance Copy Received from NetGalley
Dinosaurs may be extinct but the tension is absolutely thriving.
Listen, I know archeology/paleontology may not sound all to thrilling. But this book makes it work, and I think I know why: it’s incredibly well-rounded. Not too heavy on the science, not too heavy on the romance, and packed with just the right amount of entertainment.
Ripley embodies someone who’s been burned but refuses to walk away from what she loves. While James is absolutely driven to do the right thing - even if it costs him is reputation. They’re tasked with navigating academic fraud, a race to unearth a beautiful fossil, AND their undeniable chemistry.
This is a perfect summer romance read, and I highly encourage anyone who’s even slightly interested to pick it up and give it a try.
I have to admit, a wave of nostalgia hit me while reading. My aunt and uncle are professors of anthropology, and I grew up fascinated by their work. I was always excited when they had another cool fossil to show off during visits. I truly appreciate the care and research poured into this story even more because of them; I can feel how much love the author put into it.🦕
Tropes
~ Crush to Enemies to Friends to Lovers (wild - stick with me here)
~ Western-esque vibes
~ Workplace romance
A special thank you to Ballantine, Maggie North, and NetGalley for this ARC.🫶🏻
March 3, 2026
This book immediately hooked me and even though the middle dragged a bit, I still ate this up. Palaeontologist Ripley is on a mission to show that she didn’t actually lose it all when he ex was a shitty person, insert the best male love interest I’ve read since Adam Carlson and you have a summer romance book all about dinosaurs, finding yourself and the lengths one will go to for those they love.
Spoilers:
I just really enjoyed how Ripley HAD to get beauty out of the ground and how she was so obsessed with birds. As someone who likes modern birds, and dinosaurs, this was my book. Enter James and you get an artist forced into science and I think his character was well written on that aspect. Actually I think all the characters were well written and the silly little “heist” was good comedic relief with the heavier topics happening at that point.
The only thing I didn’t like is that she’s 28 years old but still acted like she was so young- the third act breakup isn’t necessarily bad, but it is something that could have been avoided if either of them talked about what Will did.
Spoilers:
I just really enjoyed how Ripley HAD to get beauty out of the ground and how she was so obsessed with birds. As someone who likes modern birds, and dinosaurs, this was my book. Enter James and you get an artist forced into science and I think his character was well written on that aspect. Actually I think all the characters were well written and the silly little “heist” was good comedic relief with the heavier topics happening at that point.
The only thing I didn’t like is that she’s 28 years old but still acted like she was so young- the third act breakup isn’t necessarily bad, but it is something that could have been avoided if either of them talked about what Will did.
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.
February 24, 2026
Paleontologists in love? A secret quest for the missing link between dinosaurs and birds? A smoke show of an academic who will stop at nothing to make sure that the girl of his dreams has everything she needs to make her prehistoric dreams come true? Say LESS.
The chemistry between Ripley and James positively crackles off the page. As with her other books, Maggie North is an expert at building tension, tenderness, and a deep emotional connection between her main characters. I loved every second I spent in the field with James and Ripley, and this story is so much more than their happily ever after. Thank you to Dell
And NetGalley for my gifted ARC.
The chemistry between Ripley and James positively crackles off the page. As with her other books, Maggie North is an expert at building tension, tenderness, and a deep emotional connection between her main characters. I loved every second I spent in the field with James and Ripley, and this story is so much more than their happily ever after. Thank you to Dell
And NetGalley for my gifted ARC.
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.
January 25, 2026
A romance between two paleontologists isn't something I ever thought I need in my life, but I'm so glad I found it.
Incredibly refreshing to see romance in an original setting, and personally one I haven't seen before. As someone that loves dinosaurs this was very fun. I'd have loved to give it 4 stars, but the real life references were really throwing me off, mainly the Jurassic Park ones, which makes sense, but it felt like it was too much.
Also, love a strong woman in STEM standing up for herself!
Thank you to NetGalley, and the Publisher for this ARC!
Incredibly refreshing to see romance in an original setting, and personally one I haven't seen before. As someone that loves dinosaurs this was very fun. I'd have loved to give it 4 stars, but the real life references were really throwing me off, mainly the Jurassic Park ones, which makes sense, but it felt like it was too much.
Also, love a strong woman in STEM standing up for herself!
Thank you to NetGalley, and the Publisher for this ARC!
February 5, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for the arc!!!
I really really liked this. Do I know anything about paleontology outside of Jurassic park and vague terms Ross mentioned on Friends? No. Did I still read this in its entirety? Absolutely. She built such an atmosphere it felt like I was there dusting off the bones with them. The buildup and slow burn between the two main characters was amazing. Once released I will add some of my favorite quotes since she really hit it out of the park.
I really really liked this. Do I know anything about paleontology outside of Jurassic park and vague terms Ross mentioned on Friends? No. Did I still read this in its entirety? Absolutely. She built such an atmosphere it felt like I was there dusting off the bones with them. The buildup and slow burn between the two main characters was amazing. Once released I will add some of my favorite quotes since she really hit it out of the park.
February 18, 2026
thank you netgalley for the ARC! paleontology is so fun. this was romantic, slightly confusing at points but overall very good. i love women in STEM
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The writing was beautiful and I am in love with James and his wrist watch.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Oh, the absolute joy and privilege of reading a new Maggie North book. I swear to you, her writing just sings to my soul. I love how immersive it is, this is. Complex characters. Emotional depth. Found family. Slutty little glasses. I mean?! Dinosaurs. Drawings?! Tattoos. Like… Do you need me to go on or are you finally convinced?
I had an absolute blast reading this. I dig it. Deep.
Thank you so very much for the ARC!
I had an absolute blast reading this. I dig it. Deep.
Thank you so very much for the ARC!
February 24, 2026
BONEEEEEEE!!???!! 🦴🦖🩷🪨
—
First 5-star of the year, yippeeeeeee! I LOVED THIS SOOOOO MUCH
The premise of this sounded fun, but I honestly wasn’t expecting this story and these characters to bury themselves quite so deep in my heart. I legitimately sobbed my way through the last 20% of this book!
Ripley was amazing, I loved her passion, humor, and strength. She had moments of doubt and fear and she was all the more braver for pushing for what she wanted in spite of it. James Smithson is a YEARNER, folks!! So sweet and stubborn; I think he and Ripley are the perfect match and WOW, were there a lot of moments where I literally had to set my kindle down and freak the F out over something said or done between them. THE ROCK??????? HELLO?????? Romance at its peak.
In addition to all the lovey-dovey goodness, I also adored Ripley’s crew, especially Cara! And I liked the dialogue about corruption and sexism in the world of academia, I thought that was handled well. This is definitely not my last Maggie North book!
—
First 5-star of the year, yippeeeeeee! I LOVED THIS SOOOOO MUCH
The premise of this sounded fun, but I honestly wasn’t expecting this story and these characters to bury themselves quite so deep in my heart. I legitimately sobbed my way through the last 20% of this book!
Ripley was amazing, I loved her passion, humor, and strength. She had moments of doubt and fear and she was all the more braver for pushing for what she wanted in spite of it. James Smithson is a YEARNER, folks!! So sweet and stubborn; I think he and Ripley are the perfect match and WOW, were there a lot of moments where I literally had to set my kindle down and freak the F out over something said or done between them. THE ROCK??????? HELLO?????? Romance at its peak.
In addition to all the lovey-dovey goodness, I also adored Ripley’s crew, especially Cara! And I liked the dialogue about corruption and sexism in the world of academia, I thought that was handled well. This is definitely not my last Maggie North book!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Net Galley ARC Review
This book is a love letter to every little girl that grew up fanatically alternating between Jurassic Park and rom-coms, inarguable evidence that science is romantic.
Confession: I love Jurassic Park. While I have a soft spot for all the blockbuster action movies of the 90s, Jurassic Park is something special. But, I always felt self-conscious saying that… I felt like it was such a weird thing to love Jurassic Park or dinosaurs…I mean…dinosaurs were a boy thing…
So as a grown lady when I saw that there was a STEM Romance book centered around dinosaurs, I was clamoring to read it. I was beyond thrilled when I got approved for an ARC of Fossil Feud.
Fossil Feud centers around an archaeological dig in Montana. Riley, our FMC, is a “disgraced” PhD candidate, who started her own private fossil excavation company called… wait for it… Clever Girl (I know, literally could it be cuter? I think not). James, our MMC, is a PhD Professor from Oxford, who travels to Montana to entice Ripley to help him uncover what he believes is fraud in the academic research community. And that’s where I advise you buckle up… because WHOA.
Not only is there an intriguing plot that sustains the book (think National Treasure), the romance delivers on such a deep level. The two characters connect through their shared love of paleontology. Each chapter slowly builds their bond, crescendoing into a romance that induces next level, giddy sparks you feel down to your bones. (Genuinely the romance was so intense, not super explicit just emotionally intense, sometimes that I instinctively wanted to throw my kindle in a fluster 😆)
The most poignant, romantic moments of the book though come when Ripley begins to reveal the roots of her relationship with paleontology, and more broadly herself. We see Ripley honestly struggle as a woman in a STEM field, trying to maneuver her love of the field with the real and impenetrable limits to her career because of her gender. This book is proof that science can be romantic, that science can be art, and that dinosaurs aren’t just for boys.
So from this dinosaur-loving girlie to all the future dinosaur-loving girlies, thank you for this book. I am so grateful for works like this being able to exist and prove that women and romance belong in STEM.
This book is a love letter to every little girl that grew up fanatically alternating between Jurassic Park and rom-coms, inarguable evidence that science is romantic.
Confession: I love Jurassic Park. While I have a soft spot for all the blockbuster action movies of the 90s, Jurassic Park is something special. But, I always felt self-conscious saying that… I felt like it was such a weird thing to love Jurassic Park or dinosaurs…I mean…dinosaurs were a boy thing…
So as a grown lady when I saw that there was a STEM Romance book centered around dinosaurs, I was clamoring to read it. I was beyond thrilled when I got approved for an ARC of Fossil Feud.
Fossil Feud centers around an archaeological dig in Montana. Riley, our FMC, is a “disgraced” PhD candidate, who started her own private fossil excavation company called… wait for it… Clever Girl (I know, literally could it be cuter? I think not). James, our MMC, is a PhD Professor from Oxford, who travels to Montana to entice Ripley to help him uncover what he believes is fraud in the academic research community. And that’s where I advise you buckle up… because WHOA.
Not only is there an intriguing plot that sustains the book (think National Treasure), the romance delivers on such a deep level. The two characters connect through their shared love of paleontology. Each chapter slowly builds their bond, crescendoing into a romance that induces next level, giddy sparks you feel down to your bones. (Genuinely the romance was so intense, not super explicit just emotionally intense, sometimes that I instinctively wanted to throw my kindle in a fluster 😆)
The most poignant, romantic moments of the book though come when Ripley begins to reveal the roots of her relationship with paleontology, and more broadly herself. We see Ripley honestly struggle as a woman in a STEM field, trying to maneuver her love of the field with the real and impenetrable limits to her career because of her gender. This book is proof that science can be romantic, that science can be art, and that dinosaurs aren’t just for boys.
So from this dinosaur-loving girlie to all the future dinosaur-loving girlies, thank you for this book. I am so grateful for works like this being able to exist and prove that women and romance belong in STEM.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was my first book from this author, and I was happily impressed with it! The plot is definitely different than my usual niche (sports romances), but I was so intrigued by the blurb that I wanted to know more. There’s nothing like a smart and tenacious FMC, a sexy (and smart!) MMC who’s down bad, and a whole host of lovable side characters to round out the story. Oh! And dinosaurs! Who doesn’t freaking love dinosaurs?!
I thought the pacing was good, the banter was fun, and the dino facts were interesting. Gotta say, this book had me googling lots of dinosaur names so I could picture them just right, lol! If there were errors in the science writing of this book, I’m not knowledgeable enough to have noticed or even mega cared; I mean, I’m reading this for enjoyment and escape, not so I can reference it when defending my paleontology dissertation. If I have one quibble about the book, and this is why I rated it 4 and not 5 stars (I’d give it 4.5 if I could!), it’s that I wasn’t over-the-moon convinced about the MMC’s insta-love of the FMC based on a handshake and 90 second convo 3 years prior. That felt just a touch far fetched for me. And in an extension of that, I think one or two more scenes showing them actually conversing with each other, learning each other, would’ve been in crafting how they actually fall in love. Otherwise, I was pleased with everything else.
TLDR - A definite recommend; pick this up if you like a smart and sassy FMC, a sexy British nerd MMC with a melt-worthy creative streak, interesting science-based intrigue, and a found family who makes you wish you were the one who found them. A dino-rawring fun read!!
Fun things to find inside:
- a smart man who’s down bad for a smart woman
- lots of drool-worthy forearm talk
- semi-secret sexy little tattoos
- swoon-worthy declarations from the MMC
- DINOS!!
- good friends who stick by you, even when you try and keep your distance
- righteous redemption for past wrongs
- what doesn’t kill them makes them stronger style past traumas and fam dynamics
- annndddd he wears glasses and why is that sooooo hottt?!?!
Thanks to NetGalley and Ballantine | Dell for the ARC! The opinion above is all my own.
I thought the pacing was good, the banter was fun, and the dino facts were interesting. Gotta say, this book had me googling lots of dinosaur names so I could picture them just right, lol! If there were errors in the science writing of this book, I’m not knowledgeable enough to have noticed or even mega cared; I mean, I’m reading this for enjoyment and escape, not so I can reference it when defending my paleontology dissertation. If I have one quibble about the book, and this is why I rated it 4 and not 5 stars (I’d give it 4.5 if I could!), it’s that I wasn’t over-the-moon convinced about the MMC’s insta-love of the FMC based on a handshake and 90 second convo 3 years prior. That felt just a touch far fetched for me. And in an extension of that, I think one or two more scenes showing them actually conversing with each other, learning each other, would’ve been in crafting how they actually fall in love. Otherwise, I was pleased with everything else.
TLDR - A definite recommend; pick this up if you like a smart and sassy FMC, a sexy British nerd MMC with a melt-worthy creative streak, interesting science-based intrigue, and a found family who makes you wish you were the one who found them. A dino-rawring fun read!!
Fun things to find inside:
- a smart man who’s down bad for a smart woman
- lots of drool-worthy forearm talk
- semi-secret sexy little tattoos
- swoon-worthy declarations from the MMC
- DINOS!!
- good friends who stick by you, even when you try and keep your distance
- righteous redemption for past wrongs
- what doesn’t kill them makes them stronger style past traumas and fam dynamics
- annndddd he wears glasses and why is that sooooo hottt?!?!
Thanks to NetGalley and Ballantine | Dell for the ARC! The opinion above is all my own.
March 2, 2026
YES. Just yes. I have been waiting for this one since the announcement, and as a certified dinosaur girlie, I truly did not realize how much I needed this book until I was elbows-deep in it.
First of all? That title. 👏
Then the cover art?? 👏👏
Immediate obsession.
This was my first read from Maggie, and if Fossil Feud is my introduction, it absolutely will not be my last. I LOVE being a STEM romance reader. Give me smart women, niche science fields, and hyper-specific passion any day. I will nerd out proudly.
Ripley is that girl. A brilliant, slightly feral, running-out-of-time paleontologist trying to keep her summer dig alive despite lacking funding, backing, and patience. She’s sitting on a potentially career-defining discovery but the clock is ticking. Enter James, ridiculously attractive British academic from Oxford, who needs Ripley’s expertise.
Of course she has reservations. She’s been burned before, by a man and by the very field she’s devoted her life to. So trusting another polished academic? Hard pass. Except she doesn’t really have another option. So she says yes to his proposal… professionally. (At first.)
Watching these two freakishly intelligent, wildly competent, and equally stubborn humans work together was EVERYTHING. The banter? Elite. The tension? Delicious. The chemistry? Off the charts without ever losing that nerdy, academic edge. Rivals-to-friends-to-lovers in a STEM setting just hits different.
And can we talk about Clever Girl Fossils?? I am OBSESSED with this team. The side characters were not background noise, they were fully formed, lovable, chaotic gems. The found-family vibes were immaculate. Also, Ripley’s dad? Absolute baddie. The apple did not fall far from that fossil site, and I adored their relationship so much.
This book was smart, sexy, funny, and heartfelt all at once. I ate up every single page, every debate, every dig site moment, every smoldering glance over ancient bones.
I adored this STEM rivals-to-lovers romance and I will not be shutting up about it anytime soon.
Prepared to be sick of me, Maggie.
First of all? That title. 👏
Then the cover art?? 👏👏
Immediate obsession.
This was my first read from Maggie, and if Fossil Feud is my introduction, it absolutely will not be my last. I LOVE being a STEM romance reader. Give me smart women, niche science fields, and hyper-specific passion any day. I will nerd out proudly.
Ripley is that girl. A brilliant, slightly feral, running-out-of-time paleontologist trying to keep her summer dig alive despite lacking funding, backing, and patience. She’s sitting on a potentially career-defining discovery but the clock is ticking. Enter James, ridiculously attractive British academic from Oxford, who needs Ripley’s expertise.
Of course she has reservations. She’s been burned before, by a man and by the very field she’s devoted her life to. So trusting another polished academic? Hard pass. Except she doesn’t really have another option. So she says yes to his proposal… professionally. (At first.)
Watching these two freakishly intelligent, wildly competent, and equally stubborn humans work together was EVERYTHING. The banter? Elite. The tension? Delicious. The chemistry? Off the charts without ever losing that nerdy, academic edge. Rivals-to-friends-to-lovers in a STEM setting just hits different.
And can we talk about Clever Girl Fossils?? I am OBSESSED with this team. The side characters were not background noise, they were fully formed, lovable, chaotic gems. The found-family vibes were immaculate. Also, Ripley’s dad? Absolute baddie. The apple did not fall far from that fossil site, and I adored their relationship so much.
This book was smart, sexy, funny, and heartfelt all at once. I ate up every single page, every debate, every dig site moment, every smoldering glance over ancient bones.
I adored this STEM rivals-to-lovers romance and I will not be shutting up about it anytime soon.
Prepared to be sick of me, Maggie.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Paleontologist Ripley is out of academia thanks to her ex stealing her work and making sure she was banished from that world. So now she’s gone into private excavations, determined to continue her research and unearth fossils to prove the link between dinosaurs and birds. At a Montana dig site, she thinks she’s found exactly that. But the money and sponsorships are running out.
Ripley didn’t count on renowned professor and fellow scientist James Smithson crashing her dig site (how did he even know where it was?) with a persuasive proposal—help him prove her ex’s latest too-good-to-be-true find is a hoax. The chance to wipe some fraud out of science and expose her slimy ex? Sign her up. Maybe. She agrees to do it if he helps her get funding to finish her project. And the proximity is on….
Fossil Feud has everything one could want in a romance: chemistry, ALL the feelings and emotions, brilliant writing, lots of wit, characters you wish were your friends and who are developed beautifully. A smart and witty FMC who refuses to give up on her dreams and keeps finding a way forward (and who’s not above some sweet revenge). An MMC who cares deeply and may not be what (though there’s something about a buttoned up Brit who has some inner artist and a hot body). Steamy moments. Letting each other in. Healing. Adventures. And the best dialogues.
This book steals a little more of my heart with the excavation site—I always wanted to be an archaeologist (yes I know it’s not the same as a paleontologist but it’s kinda close) and love the dig site vibes and the excitement around what you might find. The more I read books about academia though, I get a little mad and sad—is it really like that? So cutthroat and people stealing ideas and work and taking advantage? It’s just a world I have no real insight into, and seems like a brutal system.
But back to the fun—I absolutely ADORED Fossil Feud and everything about it!
Thank you to Penguin Random House and Ballantine for my advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are mine.
Ripley didn’t count on renowned professor and fellow scientist James Smithson crashing her dig site (how did he even know where it was?) with a persuasive proposal—help him prove her ex’s latest too-good-to-be-true find is a hoax. The chance to wipe some fraud out of science and expose her slimy ex? Sign her up. Maybe. She agrees to do it if he helps her get funding to finish her project. And the proximity is on….
Fossil Feud has everything one could want in a romance: chemistry, ALL the feelings and emotions, brilliant writing, lots of wit, characters you wish were your friends and who are developed beautifully. A smart and witty FMC who refuses to give up on her dreams and keeps finding a way forward (and who’s not above some sweet revenge). An MMC who cares deeply and may not be what (though there’s something about a buttoned up Brit who has some inner artist and a hot body). Steamy moments. Letting each other in. Healing. Adventures. And the best dialogues.
This book steals a little more of my heart with the excavation site—I always wanted to be an archaeologist (yes I know it’s not the same as a paleontologist but it’s kinda close) and love the dig site vibes and the excitement around what you might find. The more I read books about academia though, I get a little mad and sad—is it really like that? So cutthroat and people stealing ideas and work and taking advantage? It’s just a world I have no real insight into, and seems like a brutal system.
But back to the fun—I absolutely ADORED Fossil Feud and everything about it!
Thank you to Penguin Random House and Ballantine for my advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are mine.
February 27, 2026
Two paleontologists on a summer dig in Montana, work to excavate a new discovery, while also disproving what appears to be a fraudulent fossil.
If there’s one thing I love, it’s an academic romance so the premise of this book was right up my alley! And the type of study in this book??? DINOSAURS BABY!! I absolutely loved the topic and setting. It felt original, unlike any other books I’ve read before, and was by far my favorite part of the book :) I loved reading about being on the dig, Ripley’s knowledge and passion for paleontology and dinosaurs, and the privatization of fossil finding in comparison fossil finding for academic study. This is something I know next to nothing about and I found it fascinating!
As much as I loved the topic, my overall reading experience was more of a mixed bag. While there were many aspects that I really enjoyed, I never felt fully swept off my feet by the story, particularly in regards to the romance and the pacing of the plot. I’m unsure if it was the will they/won’t they of Ripley and James getting together, or James’ characterization as an uptight Brit that I never felt like we fully moved past, but something about them as a pair didn’t click for me. I also found it hard to suspend belief during key moments of their relationship… mainly what do you MEAN a museum doesn’t have any security cameras?! 😅
In regards to the plot, I wish we had spent more time on the investigation into the fraudulent fossil. It felt like we lost sight of this in the middle of the book, which was odd since that was why James comes to see Ripley at the dig in the first place. And while I had a lot of fun reading what went down at the conference towards the end, I wish we got to see more of what happened following these events (in the time period *before* the epilogue). Gimme the details pls!!
All in all, while not all aspects of the book worked for me, Fossil Feud is a fun and fresh concept that I am confident will find its readers!! Perhaps it’ll even pave the way for more paleontology themed romances, which I for one, would love to see!
Please note, I read this quite early; this book does not release until July 28, 2026! Thank you to Dell and NetGalley for the early copy :)
If there’s one thing I love, it’s an academic romance so the premise of this book was right up my alley! And the type of study in this book??? DINOSAURS BABY!! I absolutely loved the topic and setting. It felt original, unlike any other books I’ve read before, and was by far my favorite part of the book :) I loved reading about being on the dig, Ripley’s knowledge and passion for paleontology and dinosaurs, and the privatization of fossil finding in comparison fossil finding for academic study. This is something I know next to nothing about and I found it fascinating!
As much as I loved the topic, my overall reading experience was more of a mixed bag. While there were many aspects that I really enjoyed, I never felt fully swept off my feet by the story, particularly in regards to the romance and the pacing of the plot. I’m unsure if it was the will they/won’t they of Ripley and James getting together, or James’ characterization as an uptight Brit that I never felt like we fully moved past, but something about them as a pair didn’t click for me. I also found it hard to suspend belief during key moments of their relationship… mainly what do you MEAN a museum doesn’t have any security cameras?! 😅
In regards to the plot, I wish we had spent more time on the investigation into the fraudulent fossil. It felt like we lost sight of this in the middle of the book, which was odd since that was why James comes to see Ripley at the dig in the first place. And while I had a lot of fun reading what went down at the conference towards the end, I wish we got to see more of what happened following these events (in the time period *before* the epilogue). Gimme the details pls!!
All in all, while not all aspects of the book worked for me, Fossil Feud is a fun and fresh concept that I am confident will find its readers!! Perhaps it’ll even pave the way for more paleontology themed romances, which I for one, would love to see!
Please note, I read this quite early; this book does not release until July 28, 2026! Thank you to Dell and NetGalley for the early copy :)
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
4 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
You had me at rival paleontologists! As someone who loves all things paleontology and archaeology, Fossil Feud was absolutely my kind of romance. A female driven STEM story set around a fossil dig? I was instantly intrigued.
Ripley Adams, our main character, is rebuilding her career after being completely derailed by a terrible ex, and you feel that frustration and fire from page one. She is brilliant but guarded, and I loved her energy. She has a lot on her shoulders between the academic fallout, her dad’s illness, and everything else she is carrying, so it makes sense that she keeps everyone at arm’s length. Watching her slowly realize that she does not have to do everything alone was so satisfying. Her sassy business partner adds a great friendship connection and brings a needed balance to the scene. Their dynamic makes the story even more fun. The science woven into the narration feels authentic without ever sounding boring or stuffy. The hunt for a new avian dinosaur species had me fully invested, and the academic rivalry added real stakes.
Then there is James Smithson. The tension between him and Ripley sparks instantly, charged and a little messy in the best way. Their enemies to lovers arc is well written, and I found myself rooting for them to hurry up and get their happy ending in the best way. Beneath the chemistry, you can see that they are both craving connection and love. And I loved that they found it in one another.
This book is smart, funny, romantic, a bit suspenseful, and full of heart. I loved it and cannot wait to read more from Maggie North.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Ballantine for allowing me to read this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
You had me at rival paleontologists! As someone who loves all things paleontology and archaeology, Fossil Feud was absolutely my kind of romance. A female driven STEM story set around a fossil dig? I was instantly intrigued.
Ripley Adams, our main character, is rebuilding her career after being completely derailed by a terrible ex, and you feel that frustration and fire from page one. She is brilliant but guarded, and I loved her energy. She has a lot on her shoulders between the academic fallout, her dad’s illness, and everything else she is carrying, so it makes sense that she keeps everyone at arm’s length. Watching her slowly realize that she does not have to do everything alone was so satisfying. Her sassy business partner adds a great friendship connection and brings a needed balance to the scene. Their dynamic makes the story even more fun. The science woven into the narration feels authentic without ever sounding boring or stuffy. The hunt for a new avian dinosaur species had me fully invested, and the academic rivalry added real stakes.
Then there is James Smithson. The tension between him and Ripley sparks instantly, charged and a little messy in the best way. Their enemies to lovers arc is well written, and I found myself rooting for them to hurry up and get their happy ending in the best way. Beneath the chemistry, you can see that they are both craving connection and love. And I loved that they found it in one another.
This book is smart, funny, romantic, a bit suspenseful, and full of heart. I loved it and cannot wait to read more from Maggie North.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Ballantine for allowing me to read this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
February 25, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and Ballantine | Dell for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is the first STEM I've read since The Love Hypothesis that I truly loved and enjoyed with a full heart. A STEMinist romance about paleontology? High hopes and it understood the assignment.
Set in the world of fossil digs and academic politics, the story follows Ripley Adams, a brilliant paleontologist in exile after her ex stole her research and derailed her career. When renowned Oxford professor James Smithson arrives needing her expertise to expose a fossil fraud, what unfolds over one Montana summer is equal parts professional reckoning and slow-burn romance. Felt like a steamy version of Jurassic Park (minus the dino murders).
The STEM element isn’t just a box to be checked off. Paleontology is deeply woven into the plot, the stakes, and even the way Ripley and James relate to one another. The academic drama, professional betrayal, and fraud investigation added real tension and momentum. Ripley is gritty, passionate, and easy to root for as she fights to reclaim her work and her confidence in a male-dominated field. James, polished and frustratingly attractive, is the perfect rival-turned-ally. Their chemistry is sharp, layered with banter, forced proximity, and plenty of yearning — though at times the slow burn felt a bit too slow.
The dig crew and found family dynamic added warmth and heart, rounding out a story that balances science and romance beautifully without sacrificing either. Smart, original, and refreshingly different, this is a standout STEM romance and I highly recommend!!
Read if you like:
- Rivals to Lovers
- Forced proximity
- One cabin
- Single POV
- SPICE
This is the first STEM I've read since The Love Hypothesis that I truly loved and enjoyed with a full heart. A STEMinist romance about paleontology? High hopes and it understood the assignment.
Set in the world of fossil digs and academic politics, the story follows Ripley Adams, a brilliant paleontologist in exile after her ex stole her research and derailed her career. When renowned Oxford professor James Smithson arrives needing her expertise to expose a fossil fraud, what unfolds over one Montana summer is equal parts professional reckoning and slow-burn romance. Felt like a steamy version of Jurassic Park (minus the dino murders).
The STEM element isn’t just a box to be checked off. Paleontology is deeply woven into the plot, the stakes, and even the way Ripley and James relate to one another. The academic drama, professional betrayal, and fraud investigation added real tension and momentum. Ripley is gritty, passionate, and easy to root for as she fights to reclaim her work and her confidence in a male-dominated field. James, polished and frustratingly attractive, is the perfect rival-turned-ally. Their chemistry is sharp, layered with banter, forced proximity, and plenty of yearning — though at times the slow burn felt a bit too slow.
The dig crew and found family dynamic added warmth and heart, rounding out a story that balances science and romance beautifully without sacrificing either. Smart, original, and refreshingly different, this is a standout STEM romance and I highly recommend!!
Read if you like:
- Rivals to Lovers
- Forced proximity
- One cabin
- Single POV
- SPICE
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