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Book Club Boyfriend
Their messiest chapter might actually be their best one yet.
Blair Kellermoon—blond, bubbly, former rom-com star—has always worried no one would take her seriously as a producer. And with her latest film project stalled indefinitely, she’s starting to think desperate times call for desperate measures.
Enter bestselling author Jack beautiful writer, awful person. Yet somehow he and Blair have become unlikely text-friends, despite his very public refusal to participate in her celebrity book club. And he’s confessed he’s dealing with his own the hotly anticipated novel he can’t seem to write.
So Blair does something she invites him to stay at her pool house. Now they’ve become two misfits bonding over movie nights, cheesy pasta, befriending wild crows, and solving the mystery of the weirdly green pool. Blair was sure she knew exactly how her story would end. But Jack might be proof that it’s only just beginning . . .
Blair Kellermoon—blond, bubbly, former rom-com star—has always worried no one would take her seriously as a producer. And with her latest film project stalled indefinitely, she’s starting to think desperate times call for desperate measures.
Enter bestselling author Jack beautiful writer, awful person. Yet somehow he and Blair have become unlikely text-friends, despite his very public refusal to participate in her celebrity book club. And he’s confessed he’s dealing with his own the hotly anticipated novel he can’t seem to write.
So Blair does something she invites him to stay at her pool house. Now they’ve become two misfits bonding over movie nights, cheesy pasta, befriending wild crows, and solving the mystery of the weirdly green pool. Blair was sure she knew exactly how her story would end. But Jack might be proof that it’s only just beginning . . .
385 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 14, 2026
About the author
Jenny Holiday
34 books1,915 followersJenny Holiday is a USA Today-bestselling and RITA®-nominated author whose books have been featured in The New York Times, Entertainment Weekly, The Washington Post, and Buzzfeed. She grew up in Minnesota and started writing at age nine when her fourth-grade teacher gave her a notebook to fill with stories. When she's not working on her next book, she likes to hang out with her family, watch other people sing karaoke, and throw theme parties. Jenny lives in London, Ontario, Canada.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 282 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
book club boyfriend ꒱ 4.5 stars
⌗ 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘦𝘥: mar 14, ‘26 ⌇ 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘴𝘩𝘦𝘥: mar 15, ‘26
review with slight spoilers
i absolutely love the way this book was written, the plot sounded so interesting to me and i am so glad i requested this book.
the dual pov in 3rd person was something i was not expecting but it was a perfect stylistic choice. the story was also really good, this book was very much strangers to friends to lovers at least to me. not really slow burn, at least in my opinion, but there’s is a bit of angst which i think is written wonderfully.
blair kellermoon, i honestly really enjoyed having an fmc who was older and more mature. she doesn’t follow the typical route of a romance fmc considering she was not only married but had fully grown children. i also think her ocd and anxiety disorder was written very well and realistic. her way of rationalizing situations was very much a breath of fresh air. i loved learning about her backstory and how books and film were a part of her life because i think it was really important to who she was.
jack branksome, as much as i wish we got to see more into his book i do think that the choice to give the readers such little detail about it was the right call. it was a little crazy that he decided to temporarily move in with a relative strange but you what it worked out. i had the laugh of a lifetime when he shook edward’s paw i think it was genuinely my favorite part of the book. i really liked how much he noticed her and her struggles and tried his best to help her even without her knowing. his character was also really enjoyable even when he was being a jerk, i think that the fact that it wasn’t so much purposeful but just a result of his upbringing made him a lot more palatable.
the relationship, i really like their dynamic as friends and i think it transferred over fairly well when it came to their relationship. it wasn’t smooth sailing at the beginning but i think they needed to work on themselves before really getting together. im glad they had their happy ending.
overall, i absolutely enjoyed this book and want everyone to give it a chance. contemporary romance is one of my favorite genres and this book was written extremely well. the characters and story are very cohesive in moving the plot forward and i was honestly totally hooked on how this book would end.
── preread
got this on the read now section because it sounded so interesting so lets see how it goes
ⓘ thank you jenny holiday, forever publishing & netgalley for this arc in exchange for an honest review
⌗ 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘦𝘥: mar 14, ‘26 ⌇ 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘴𝘩𝘦𝘥: mar 15, ‘26
review with slight spoilers
i absolutely love the way this book was written, the plot sounded so interesting to me and i am so glad i requested this book.
the dual pov in 3rd person was something i was not expecting but it was a perfect stylistic choice. the story was also really good, this book was very much strangers to friends to lovers at least to me. not really slow burn, at least in my opinion, but there’s is a bit of angst which i think is written wonderfully.
blair kellermoon, i honestly really enjoyed having an fmc who was older and more mature. she doesn’t follow the typical route of a romance fmc considering she was not only married but had fully grown children. i also think her ocd and anxiety disorder was written very well and realistic. her way of rationalizing situations was very much a breath of fresh air. i loved learning about her backstory and how books and film were a part of her life because i think it was really important to who she was.
jack branksome, as much as i wish we got to see more into his book i do think that the choice to give the readers such little detail about it was the right call. it was a little crazy that he decided to temporarily move in with a relative strange but you what it worked out. i had the laugh of a lifetime when he shook edward’s paw i think it was genuinely my favorite part of the book. i really liked how much he noticed her and her struggles and tried his best to help her even without her knowing. his character was also really enjoyable even when he was being a jerk, i think that the fact that it wasn’t so much purposeful but just a result of his upbringing made him a lot more palatable.
the relationship, i really like their dynamic as friends and i think it transferred over fairly well when it came to their relationship. it wasn’t smooth sailing at the beginning but i think they needed to work on themselves before really getting together. im glad they had their happy ending.
overall, i absolutely enjoyed this book and want everyone to give it a chance. contemporary romance is one of my favorite genres and this book was written extremely well. the characters and story are very cohesive in moving the plot forward and i was honestly totally hooked on how this book would end.
── preread
got this on the read now section because it sounded so interesting so lets see how it goes
ⓘ thank you jenny holiday, forever publishing & netgalley for this arc in exchange for an honest review
July 17, 2026
Book Shop Boyfriend by Jenny Holiday
Contemporary romance.
Briar Kellermoon is Hollywood royalty. Young romcom star turned producer and book club leader. She wants to promote Jack Branksome’s first book on her book club recs but he refuses. He’s not really aware of her popularity and his social skills are a bit lacking. Regretting his abrupt handling of her original request and stuck on writing his second book, he texts her an apology. They begin a surprisingly friendly conversation back and forth via text and he finds himself staying in her pool house, having dinner together and binging a few different tv shows.
Who would have thought these two could become friends?
Starting out as opposite personalities but both home bodies, they find a friendly banter and commonality in their views and thinking, and silences. Both find a bit of healing and growing a benefit of their new friendship. Plus family. And feelings beyond friendship.
Heartwarming and delightful.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley.
Contemporary romance.
Briar Kellermoon is Hollywood royalty. Young romcom star turned producer and book club leader. She wants to promote Jack Branksome’s first book on her book club recs but he refuses. He’s not really aware of her popularity and his social skills are a bit lacking. Regretting his abrupt handling of her original request and stuck on writing his second book, he texts her an apology. They begin a surprisingly friendly conversation back and forth via text and he finds himself staying in her pool house, having dinner together and binging a few different tv shows.
Who would have thought these two could become friends?
Starting out as opposite personalities but both home bodies, they find a friendly banter and commonality in their views and thinking, and silences. Both find a bit of healing and growing a benefit of their new friendship. Plus family. And feelings beyond friendship.
Heartwarming and delightful.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley.
August 11, 2026
This isnt really a Romance novel. I know the title and cover make it look very Romance-y but its not. I guess you could say its a slow burn Romance but I don't think that applies either. This is in my opinion a Friendship novel.
This book gets off to a doozy of a start. Blair Kellermoon is...Reese Witherspoon and she's looking for a new book to include in her bookclub. Jack Branksome is any number of male authors that think they are God's gift to the written word. Turns down having his book picked in a very misogynistic way.
Jack has a lot of work to do to get back in our good graces. Through the magical world of fiction Blair and Jack become friends and at about the 65% mark they become "romantic".
I enjoyed this book. Blair is coming off of a divorce but we dont actually get much attention spent on her ex. I was quite happy not to have to read about her asshole ex. This was just a chill little read.
I would recommend this to people who dont love Romance but love Women's Fiction. I also think that some Romance readers that dont need a bunch of angst in there books, would enjoy it.
This book gets off to a doozy of a start. Blair Kellermoon is...Reese Witherspoon and she's looking for a new book to include in her bookclub. Jack Branksome is any number of male authors that think they are God's gift to the written word. Turns down having his book picked in a very misogynistic way.
Jack has a lot of work to do to get back in our good graces. Through the magical world of fiction Blair and Jack become friends and at about the 65% mark they become "romantic".
I enjoyed this book. Blair is coming off of a divorce but we dont actually get much attention spent on her ex. I was quite happy not to have to read about her asshole ex. This was just a chill little read.
I would recommend this to people who dont love Romance but love Women's Fiction. I also think that some Romance readers that dont need a bunch of angst in there books, would enjoy it.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you Net Galley for the ARC, this review is based on my own thoughts and opinions. This book was really good I liked the development of each character and how descriptive the storyline was. I also enjoy the deeper meaning that takes place throughout the book between both characters. Blair and Jack’s relationship with each other is was full of humor and banter. This book was a true slow burn and grumpy/sunshine, and enemies to friends to lovers book. Overall this book was really enjoyable and entertaining to read.
Thank you Net Galley for the ARC, this review is based on my own thoughts and opinions. This book was really good I liked the development of each character and how descriptive the storyline was. I also enjoy the deeper meaning that takes place throughout the book between both characters. Blair and Jack’s relationship with each other is was full of humor and banter. This book was a true slow burn and grumpy/sunshine, and enemies to friends to lovers book. Overall this book was really enjoyable and entertaining to read.
July 23, 2026
This story was so satisfying to read; emotional, inspiring, and incredibly heartfelt!
It felt like such a refreshing change from the rom-coms I usually gravitate toward (as much as I absolutely adore them!). It tells a more mature story, where both main characters grow together while also evolving individually. They influence each other in meaningful ways, but their personal growth also comes from their own self-reflection and the conversations they have with the people around them.
I also really appreciated the way the book handled mental health. It never overshadowed the story, didn't rely on clichés, and felt like a thoughtful and realistic portrayal of anxiety. It reminds us that someone can appear to be functioning perfectly well on the outside while quietly struggling on the inside, and that certain events can trigger periods when those struggles become much harder to manage. I loved that the story also shows there is hope, that living with mental health challenges or a diagnosis isn't the end of someone's journey and that healing and growth are still possible.
One of my favorite aspects of this book was the balance between the romance and the character development. You can clearly see their relationship grow, but you also get to watch each character pursue their own goals and become the person they want to be. I especially loved that their growth wasn't driven solely by their relationship. Their connection certainly helps shape them, but so do their own introspection, personal determination, and the support of the people around them. It creates a story that feels authentic, hopeful, and deeply satisfying.
It felt like such a refreshing change from the rom-coms I usually gravitate toward (as much as I absolutely adore them!). It tells a more mature story, where both main characters grow together while also evolving individually. They influence each other in meaningful ways, but their personal growth also comes from their own self-reflection and the conversations they have with the people around them.
I also really appreciated the way the book handled mental health. It never overshadowed the story, didn't rely on clichés, and felt like a thoughtful and realistic portrayal of anxiety. It reminds us that someone can appear to be functioning perfectly well on the outside while quietly struggling on the inside, and that certain events can trigger periods when those struggles become much harder to manage. I loved that the story also shows there is hope, that living with mental health challenges or a diagnosis isn't the end of someone's journey and that healing and growth are still possible.
One of my favorite aspects of this book was the balance between the romance and the character development. You can clearly see their relationship grow, but you also get to watch each character pursue their own goals and become the person they want to be. I especially loved that their growth wasn't driven solely by their relationship. Their connection certainly helps shape them, but so do their own introspection, personal determination, and the support of the people around them. It creates a story that feels authentic, hopeful, and deeply satisfying.
July 5, 2026
Book Review
Book Club Boyfriend by Jenny Holiday
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ 4.25
Vibes
✔️enemies to lovers
✔️ opposites attract
✔️ close proximity
✔️ anxiety and OCD rep
✔️ divorcee/single parent
✔️ crows, cats and dogs
✔️ slow burn
✔️ dual POV
Thoughts
Give me more mature, adult romances!! Sensibility, sincerity, a touch of humour and thoughtfulness go a long way in building the relationship between Blair and Jack.
Both characters exude multiple layers of complexity, each of their inner journeys is emotionally nuanced and yet the book felt bright and warm.
Readers will recognize some obvious similarities to a popular celebrity Book Club host (I smirked at a few of the references). Holiday nails it, though it might not be for everyone as it sets the reader up for a very distinctive visual of our MC
Overall
For me, this book highlights the importance of feeling seen by those closest to you. Trust, safety, security, respect and love are gifts we all deserve, and in Bookclub Boyfriend they pave the way to a happy ever after.
Thank you to the publisher @readforeverpub @grandcentralpublishing for my ARC in return for an honest review. Opinions expressed are my own
Book Club Boyfriend by Jenny Holiday
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ 4.25
Vibes
✔️enemies to lovers
✔️ opposites attract
✔️ close proximity
✔️ anxiety and OCD rep
✔️ divorcee/single parent
✔️ crows, cats and dogs
✔️ slow burn
✔️ dual POV
Thoughts
Give me more mature, adult romances!! Sensibility, sincerity, a touch of humour and thoughtfulness go a long way in building the relationship between Blair and Jack.
Both characters exude multiple layers of complexity, each of their inner journeys is emotionally nuanced and yet the book felt bright and warm.
Readers will recognize some obvious similarities to a popular celebrity Book Club host (I smirked at a few of the references). Holiday nails it, though it might not be for everyone as it sets the reader up for a very distinctive visual of our MC
Overall
For me, this book highlights the importance of feeling seen by those closest to you. Trust, safety, security, respect and love are gifts we all deserve, and in Bookclub Boyfriend they pave the way to a happy ever after.
Thank you to the publisher @readforeverpub @grandcentralpublishing for my ARC in return for an honest review. Opinions expressed are my own
June 9, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and Forever for the gifted ARC!
I really loved that this one gave us older main characters, and I especially enjoyed the mix of careers here with Blair in Hollywood and Jack as an author. Blair honestly gave me such major Reese Witherspoon vibes, between her production company, book club, and southern energy.
I loved how this started with them as text friends who clearly had a lot of chemistry and humor, even while they were both kind of stuck in their own creative slumps. It felt like they were able to be way more honest with each other behind a screen, like all the humor and real thoughts came out easier that way. Then when they actually meet in person and he stays in her pool house, you can really feel how nervous and awkward it is at first, which honestly felt so real. I loved that shift.
Blair and Jack both felt like people figuring things out in real time, especially when it came to their careers and mental health, and I really liked how honest that felt. They challenged each other in a good way and it never felt forced.
This was such a warm, easy read with great banter, lovable characters, and a slow burn romance that builds in a really natural way. Definitely one of those stories you just enjoy watching unfold.
I really loved that this one gave us older main characters, and I especially enjoyed the mix of careers here with Blair in Hollywood and Jack as an author. Blair honestly gave me such major Reese Witherspoon vibes, between her production company, book club, and southern energy.
I loved how this started with them as text friends who clearly had a lot of chemistry and humor, even while they were both kind of stuck in their own creative slumps. It felt like they were able to be way more honest with each other behind a screen, like all the humor and real thoughts came out easier that way. Then when they actually meet in person and he stays in her pool house, you can really feel how nervous and awkward it is at first, which honestly felt so real. I loved that shift.
Blair and Jack both felt like people figuring things out in real time, especially when it came to their careers and mental health, and I really liked how honest that felt. They challenged each other in a good way and it never felt forced.
This was such a warm, easy read with great banter, lovable characters, and a slow burn romance that builds in a really natural way. Definitely one of those stories you just enjoy watching unfold.
July 26, 2026
This was a fun read. While this story dealt with some hard topics it still had that fun feeling a romcom brings.
I adored Blair's character so much. She's a producer and her project has stalled. She's down on her luck and finds an unexpected text from Jack an author who she tried to feature his novel on her book club but he denied previously. He's apologizing for how he came off in an article about her and is trying to make amends. They become unlikely text friends. On a crazy whim Blair invites him to stay in her pool house to hopefully help his writers block. Due to the forced proximity they become unlikely friends and see each other outside what everyone else does.
I have never related to a character as much as I did Blair. It was like reading a little piece of myself. I was so glad to see the mental health representation. Also, the character growth was done really well!
Thank you to forever and NetGalley for the gifted ebook.
I adored Blair's character so much. She's a producer and her project has stalled. She's down on her luck and finds an unexpected text from Jack an author who she tried to feature his novel on her book club but he denied previously. He's apologizing for how he came off in an article about her and is trying to make amends. They become unlikely text friends. On a crazy whim Blair invites him to stay in her pool house to hopefully help his writers block. Due to the forced proximity they become unlikely friends and see each other outside what everyone else does.
I have never related to a character as much as I did Blair. It was like reading a little piece of myself. I was so glad to see the mental health representation. Also, the character growth was done really well!
Thank you to forever and NetGalley for the gifted ebook.
July 22, 2026
Lovely!
August 15, 2026
Jenny Holiday writes contemporary romance that just works for me. Her characters are fully formed people, truly grown adults, who have real issues and have to figure them out while also paying their bills and taking care of their responsibilities. Book Club Boyfriend has a cute title, but it really fits into the style Jenny has become known for and is a book dealing with real, heavier subject matter.
Thanks to Forever for the complimentary ARC of Book Club Boyfriend.
Blair Kellermoon has made the successful transition from rom-com actress to Hollywood producer. Part of her brand is "Books with Blair," her national book club that is featured on morning shows and guarantees a book will be a bestseller. Blair has chosen Jack Branksome's debut novel for her book club, but when she and her business partner hop on a Zoom with him to offer him the spot, he turns her down. This is unprecedented: no one declines Books with Blair. But Jack Branksome is determined to keep his distance from pop culture, Hollywood, or anything that might make him seem less than serious.
Months later, Jack is struggling to produce his second novel. He's already pushed back his deadline once, and his publisher is starting to get antsy. He needs to get this done, but nothing is breaking past his writer's block. When he strikes up a friendship via text with Blair, one that he has to begin with an apology for several dumb things he's said about and to her, the newly divorced empty nester suggests Jack come to Los Angeles and write his book in her pool house. The change of scenery might do him good, and she could use the company. Jack is initially hesitant, but the only writing he's gotten done recently was after talking to Blair, so he takes the leap, books a plane ticket, and heads to LA to spend a few months in the sunshine finishing his book.
Blair Kellermoon is a stand-in for Reese Witherspoon. She is a 2000s rom-com actress from the South with very blonde hair who had kids young and has transitioned into more of a production role in Hollywood. Blair deals with OCD and panic attacks in this book. They're undiagnosed for a decent amount of the story, and she is coping with some habits she's picked up over time. I really loved watching her navigate all the transitions in her life. Her youngest has started college, she's newly divorced, and her career has firmly settled into producing over acting. She's dealing with a lot of change and not handling it very well, which I found to be relatable.
Jack's character has to confront a lot of his ingrained prejudices and behaviors over the course of the novel. His father is a famous Serious Novelist™️, but was a less-than-stellar father. Jack doesn't realize it, but his father indoctrinated him into a lot of messed-up beliefs about his mother, the world, and himself throughout his childhood. It takes becoming friends with Blair and seeing how she parents her children for him to begin to unpack his relationships with both of his parents. Jenny Holiday seamlessly weaves Jack's character development into the action with Blair in a way that you don't really notice what's happening with him until things come to a head.
I tandem read Book Club Boyfriend in both audio and ebook. The audiobook is performed in duet narration, and I really enjoyed both narrators. The female narrator did a great job with Blair's Southern accent. It came out when she would use quotes from her grandmother or in really emotional moments. The male narrator sounded genuinely exhausted when he was doing Jack's dialogue, which fit his vibe.
Jenny Holiday writes a great contemporary romance. If you're pining for the days of contemporary romance with dual POV, where both characters have a lot of growth to get to the HEA, pick this one up. 5 stars.
Thanks to Forever for the complimentary ARC of Book Club Boyfriend.
Blair Kellermoon has made the successful transition from rom-com actress to Hollywood producer. Part of her brand is "Books with Blair," her national book club that is featured on morning shows and guarantees a book will be a bestseller. Blair has chosen Jack Branksome's debut novel for her book club, but when she and her business partner hop on a Zoom with him to offer him the spot, he turns her down. This is unprecedented: no one declines Books with Blair. But Jack Branksome is determined to keep his distance from pop culture, Hollywood, or anything that might make him seem less than serious.
Months later, Jack is struggling to produce his second novel. He's already pushed back his deadline once, and his publisher is starting to get antsy. He needs to get this done, but nothing is breaking past his writer's block. When he strikes up a friendship via text with Blair, one that he has to begin with an apology for several dumb things he's said about and to her, the newly divorced empty nester suggests Jack come to Los Angeles and write his book in her pool house. The change of scenery might do him good, and she could use the company. Jack is initially hesitant, but the only writing he's gotten done recently was after talking to Blair, so he takes the leap, books a plane ticket, and heads to LA to spend a few months in the sunshine finishing his book.
Blair Kellermoon is a stand-in for Reese Witherspoon. She is a 2000s rom-com actress from the South with very blonde hair who had kids young and has transitioned into more of a production role in Hollywood. Blair deals with OCD and panic attacks in this book. They're undiagnosed for a decent amount of the story, and she is coping with some habits she's picked up over time. I really loved watching her navigate all the transitions in her life. Her youngest has started college, she's newly divorced, and her career has firmly settled into producing over acting. She's dealing with a lot of change and not handling it very well, which I found to be relatable.
Jack's character has to confront a lot of his ingrained prejudices and behaviors over the course of the novel. His father is a famous Serious Novelist™️, but was a less-than-stellar father. Jack doesn't realize it, but his father indoctrinated him into a lot of messed-up beliefs about his mother, the world, and himself throughout his childhood. It takes becoming friends with Blair and seeing how she parents her children for him to begin to unpack his relationships with both of his parents. Jenny Holiday seamlessly weaves Jack's character development into the action with Blair in a way that you don't really notice what's happening with him until things come to a head.
I tandem read Book Club Boyfriend in both audio and ebook. The audiobook is performed in duet narration, and I really enjoyed both narrators. The female narrator did a great job with Blair's Southern accent. It came out when she would use quotes from her grandmother or in really emotional moments. The male narrator sounded genuinely exhausted when he was doing Jack's dialogue, which fit his vibe.
Jenny Holiday writes a great contemporary romance. If you're pining for the days of contemporary romance with dual POV, where both characters have a lot of growth to get to the HEA, pick this one up. 5 stars.
July 13, 2026
Rating: Loved It
✔️ Enemies to Lovers
✔️ Slowest of Slow Burns
✔️ Opposites Attract
✔️ Mental Health Rep (Anxiety/OCD)
✔️ Later-in-Life Romance (FMC has two grown kids)
✔️ A Crow Army
✔️ A Misunderstood Cat
✔️ Neighbor with a Grudge
✔️ Late-Night Snooping Missions
✔️ Grumpy x Sunshine
✔️ Top-Tier Banter
Jenny is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors. Canadian Boyfriend is still a book I think about regularly, and it came out two years ago. Every one of her books hits differently and explores something new (I also caught the connection to Into the Woods in this one).
I went into this expecting one thing based on the title, and while that expectation wasn't wrong, this story turned out to be so much more.
Watching Blair and Jack go from him publicly snubbing her, to reluctant texting friends, to summer housemates, to genuine friends, and finally to lovers was so incredibly satisfying. This is one of the slowest slow burns I've ever read, but it works *perfectly* for these characters. Every step of their relationship feels earned.
Blair and Jack couldn't be more different if they tried. Jack's internal monologue had me laughing more than once, and I loved watching Blair quietly work her way past the walls he'd spent years building. Their relationship forces both of them to realize they each have healing and growing to do, making their journey feel authentic and rewarding.
The side plots kept the story moving, especially Jack's friendship with Blair's daughter, Zoe. Their dynamic added so much heart and humor, balancing out the heavier emotional moments perfectly.
I also really appreciated the anxiety and OCD representation. It didn't just mention these struggles, it explored manifestation, treatments, and the importance of celebrating even the smallest victories. It was handled with a level of care and nuance that you don't often see, and I thought it added so much depth to the story.
Thank you, @netgalley, @holymolyjennyholi, and @readforeverpub for the ARC.
✔️ Enemies to Lovers
✔️ Slowest of Slow Burns
✔️ Opposites Attract
✔️ Mental Health Rep (Anxiety/OCD)
✔️ Later-in-Life Romance (FMC has two grown kids)
✔️ A Crow Army
✔️ A Misunderstood Cat
✔️ Neighbor with a Grudge
✔️ Late-Night Snooping Missions
✔️ Grumpy x Sunshine
✔️ Top-Tier Banter
Jenny is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors. Canadian Boyfriend is still a book I think about regularly, and it came out two years ago. Every one of her books hits differently and explores something new (I also caught the connection to Into the Woods in this one).
I went into this expecting one thing based on the title, and while that expectation wasn't wrong, this story turned out to be so much more.
Watching Blair and Jack go from him publicly snubbing her, to reluctant texting friends, to summer housemates, to genuine friends, and finally to lovers was so incredibly satisfying. This is one of the slowest slow burns I've ever read, but it works *perfectly* for these characters. Every step of their relationship feels earned.
Blair and Jack couldn't be more different if they tried. Jack's internal monologue had me laughing more than once, and I loved watching Blair quietly work her way past the walls he'd spent years building. Their relationship forces both of them to realize they each have healing and growing to do, making their journey feel authentic and rewarding.
The side plots kept the story moving, especially Jack's friendship with Blair's daughter, Zoe. Their dynamic added so much heart and humor, balancing out the heavier emotional moments perfectly.
I also really appreciated the anxiety and OCD representation. It didn't just mention these struggles, it explored manifestation, treatments, and the importance of celebrating even the smallest victories. It was handled with a level of care and nuance that you don't often see, and I thought it added so much depth to the story.
Thank you, @netgalley, @holymolyjennyholi, and @readforeverpub for the ARC.
August 7, 2026
4.5 stars
CBR18 Bingo: Craft (this book dwells a lot on writing as a craft - both novels and screenplays)
Thank you to Forever and NetGalley for this ARC. My opinions are my own. This book is on sale now.
Blair Kellermoon (former rom-com star, now powerful producer) has adapted several novels as movies and TV series and runs a book club, and the books she picks usually get huge sales boosts and are again likely to be optioned for adaptation. Suffice it to say, most authors are thrilled when being asked to be part of her book club.
Jack Branksome is not one of those authors. When receiving the offer from her via Zoom, he rather coldly rejects her, and while this was a private meeting, it is widely reported in the press. After Jack also says something that could be seen as rather unflattering about Blair in a magazine interview, he texts her to apologise, and this becomes the start of their friendship.
Blair is recently divorced, and both her children are away at college. She is finding the empty-nest situation more difficult than she was expecting, and it's clear to the reader that she has several mental health issues that need to be dealt with that she's clearly not ready to acknowledge within herself. Jack's debut novel was a huge success, but he's now struggling with writing anything for the second. He's already had to ask for an extension on his deadline once. Blair invites Jack to come stay in her pool house, anIntd the friendship they began via phone develops further.
Both Blair and Jack are very observant people who are very good about pushing away anything to do with themselves. Jack's father is also an acclaimed novelist, and his elitist views on literature and culture, which have clearly affected Jack, combined with the pressure of trying to write something as well received as his debut book, make it very hard for Jack to get out of his own head and get something new written.
Blair has been trying to adapt a YA novel, but the lack of a good script means it's hard to find funding for the movie, and because she's heard too often from men in her life that she's a great actress, but not a writer, she scoffs at Jack's suggestions that she write the script herself.
Jack can see that Blair is struggling with depression, anxiety and OCD. Blair can see that Jack has massive daddy issues. Neither of them is looking for romance, and they keep denying that their deepening friendship has any romantic undertones, yet they also become extremely adept at anticipating each other's needs. This book is extremely slow-burn, and a lot of the story concerns itself more with how Jack and Blair can become better at taking care of themselves than how they can build a lasting relationship.
If I had to list some tropes for this book, it would probably be antagonists to best friends to lovers, and also grumpy meets sunshine. Jack was an aloof and grumpy supporting character in Holiday's previous romance, Into the Woods. I remember wondering if Holiday was setting up Jack as a future hero when reading that one. Blair is clearly inspired by Reese Witherspoon, both looks- and career-wise. She's blond, beautiful and bubbly. She used to be a beloved rom-com actress who has reinvented herself as a Hollywood producer and champion of books and reading.
This book turned out to be rather different from what I was expecting, and the romantic payoff comes rather late in the story, but it's such a well-written and enjoyable book that it didn't bother me. I am really glad I got an ARC of this one, and look forward to Holiday's next contemporary (I find I like her contemporaries more than her historicals, in general).
CBR18 Bingo: Craft (this book dwells a lot on writing as a craft - both novels and screenplays)
Thank you to Forever and NetGalley for this ARC. My opinions are my own. This book is on sale now.
Blair Kellermoon (former rom-com star, now powerful producer) has adapted several novels as movies and TV series and runs a book club, and the books she picks usually get huge sales boosts and are again likely to be optioned for adaptation. Suffice it to say, most authors are thrilled when being asked to be part of her book club.
Jack Branksome is not one of those authors. When receiving the offer from her via Zoom, he rather coldly rejects her, and while this was a private meeting, it is widely reported in the press. After Jack also says something that could be seen as rather unflattering about Blair in a magazine interview, he texts her to apologise, and this becomes the start of their friendship.
Blair is recently divorced, and both her children are away at college. She is finding the empty-nest situation more difficult than she was expecting, and it's clear to the reader that she has several mental health issues that need to be dealt with that she's clearly not ready to acknowledge within herself. Jack's debut novel was a huge success, but he's now struggling with writing anything for the second. He's already had to ask for an extension on his deadline once. Blair invites Jack to come stay in her pool house, anIntd the friendship they began via phone develops further.
Both Blair and Jack are very observant people who are very good about pushing away anything to do with themselves. Jack's father is also an acclaimed novelist, and his elitist views on literature and culture, which have clearly affected Jack, combined with the pressure of trying to write something as well received as his debut book, make it very hard for Jack to get out of his own head and get something new written.
Blair has been trying to adapt a YA novel, but the lack of a good script means it's hard to find funding for the movie, and because she's heard too often from men in her life that she's a great actress, but not a writer, she scoffs at Jack's suggestions that she write the script herself.
Jack can see that Blair is struggling with depression, anxiety and OCD. Blair can see that Jack has massive daddy issues. Neither of them is looking for romance, and they keep denying that their deepening friendship has any romantic undertones, yet they also become extremely adept at anticipating each other's needs. This book is extremely slow-burn, and a lot of the story concerns itself more with how Jack and Blair can become better at taking care of themselves than how they can build a lasting relationship.
If I had to list some tropes for this book, it would probably be antagonists to best friends to lovers, and also grumpy meets sunshine. Jack was an aloof and grumpy supporting character in Holiday's previous romance, Into the Woods. I remember wondering if Holiday was setting up Jack as a future hero when reading that one. Blair is clearly inspired by Reese Witherspoon, both looks- and career-wise. She's blond, beautiful and bubbly. She used to be a beloved rom-com actress who has reinvented herself as a Hollywood producer and champion of books and reading.
This book turned out to be rather different from what I was expecting, and the romantic payoff comes rather late in the story, but it's such a well-written and enjoyable book that it didn't bother me. I am really glad I got an ARC of this one, and look forward to Holiday's next contemporary (I find I like her contemporaries more than her historicals, in general).
August 8, 2026
A cute, fun read! Some of the parts were a little cringy for me but overall I enjoyed the story. An easy, entertaining read with lots to like!
Thank you to Goodreads for this free copy through the giveaways!
Thank you to Goodreads for this free copy through the giveaways!
July 14, 2026
Totally pulls you in even with a rough romantic start. Kinda hard to see how such a pretentious prick can be the love interest you’ll eventually root for, even in an enemies to lovers, but the story finds its way. Once the tone of the book makes itself known, much more (quietly) dramatic and introspective with issues of mental health, parental abuse, and creativity & self-fulfillment, less on the romance as a main focus, it all comes together brilliantly. Two people that build an unlikely friendship, turned attraction, amid personal and professional struggles. Their connection is real but the road is rocky and far from perfect. It’s a compelling read.
My one big complaint, though, is some of the time jumps. Several important moments happen off page and I desperately wanted to see the confrontations. Instead the next chapter would start with a “months later” and there wouldn’t even be a satisfying recap.
Overall, though, this was a surprisingly deep and mature story filled with a lot of grace, forgiveness, and growth. I really enjoyed.
* I received a free early ecopy from the publisher
My one big complaint, though, is some of the time jumps. Several important moments happen off page and I desperately wanted to see the confrontations. Instead the next chapter would start with a “months later” and there wouldn’t even be a satisfying recap.
Overall, though, this was a surprisingly deep and mature story filled with a lot of grace, forgiveness, and growth. I really enjoyed.
* I received a free early ecopy from the publisher
August 16, 2026
I’m not sure what it was about this book but I was hooked! I found myself really invested in the characters and loving the forced proximity of two strangers who, despite a poor first meeting, end up spending a season together in LA became the friend each other needed during a difficult time.
I loved how their transition from TV buddies to something more had many ups and downs that felt realistic. I also really enjoyed the resolution which defied the traditional formula it felt refreshing. This one is a sleeper hit in my eyes! 5🌟
I loved how their transition from TV buddies to something more had many ups and downs that felt realistic. I also really enjoyed the resolution which defied the traditional formula it felt refreshing. This one is a sleeper hit in my eyes! 5🌟
August 6, 2026
Thank you Hachette Canada for the gifted copy.
I really enjoyed this charming romance — especially the gentle push and pull between Blair and Jack. Blair’s sunny personality was such a standout for me, and I loved how her warmth helped Jack slowly break down his walls. At the same time, her OCD and anxiety added depth to her character and made her emotional journey feel even more meaningful.
Their love story’s progression was soft and steady that made it feel believable and comforting. Jack’s patient, grounded energy pairs beautifully with Blair’s hopeful spirit, and watching them grow together was one of my favourite parts of the story. It was a great grumpy-sunshine pairing.
I really enjoyed this charming romance — especially the gentle push and pull between Blair and Jack. Blair’s sunny personality was such a standout for me, and I loved how her warmth helped Jack slowly break down his walls. At the same time, her OCD and anxiety added depth to her character and made her emotional journey feel even more meaningful.
Their love story’s progression was soft and steady that made it feel believable and comforting. Jack’s patient, grounded energy pairs beautifully with Blair’s hopeful spirit, and watching them grow together was one of my favourite parts of the story. It was a great grumpy-sunshine pairing.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to Jenny holiday and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review! 🫶📚
This book was such a cute, cozy read! It had all the bookish charm I was hoping for, with lovable characters, sweet romance, and plenty of moments that made me smile.
I especially loved the book club vibes and all the literary references sprinkled throughout the story. The chemistry between the main characters felt natural, and watching their relationship grow was both heartwarming and fun. It was the kind of book that was easy to curl up with and get lost in.
If you’re looking for a lighthearted, feel-good romance with book-loving characters, this one is definitely worth picking up!
This book was such a cute, cozy read! It had all the bookish charm I was hoping for, with lovable characters, sweet romance, and plenty of moments that made me smile.
I especially loved the book club vibes and all the literary references sprinkled throughout the story. The chemistry between the main characters felt natural, and watching their relationship grow was both heartwarming and fun. It was the kind of book that was easy to curl up with and get lost in.
If you’re looking for a lighthearted, feel-good romance with book-loving characters, this one is definitely worth picking up!
August 3, 2026
I want you to get your book done . . . because I want to read it. Because the first one cleaved a chasm in my chest, which should have been an unpleasant sensation but somehow wasn't. That's what the best books do. You know what I mean, right? . . . As an adult, you don't really get to have that feeling, even if you have a great book on hand. Because you have responsibilities, you know? But every once in a while I start a book and it gives me that feeling, a flash of that feeling, that sense of urgency combined with . . . I don't know, combined with comfort, I guess.
Jenny Holiday never misses for me! This one felt like a breath of fresh air—I missed her books! It is a wealth of riches to be receiving two of them this year.
Naturally, this set-up was just meant for me. A grumpy literary novelist with writer's block meets the sunshine producer in Hollywood who is behind a celebrity book club pick? Sign me up. Reading in the author's note that Holiday was inspired by a real-life tiff between a writer and celebrity was everything to me (do I need to go down a rabbit hole now?). I really loved reading how Blair and Jack clashed, and then how they eventually learned to understand each other and become friends. The dual POV was a great choice, because I became so invested in their relationship getting to see from both of their eyes. Each of their voices is so distinct in their chapters that I felt like I was truly inside of their heads, navigating the world with them. Truly some excellent writing happening here, I was nerding out! Getting to understand them each individually at that level meant I was rooting for them to figure their own stuff out too.
And that stuff! Heavy, but Holiday handles it so gently and with such care. The way she writes mental health rep just really speaks to me, and I always appreciate it.
One of the shining moments in the book was Jack's relationship with Blair's daughter Esme. I couldn't help but smile at their email chains and their plot to surprise Blair at Thanksgiving. It was so heartwarming that at one point I just had to put the book down, I was so overwhelmed. Such a sweet part of the plot, and it was reminiscent of Annabel Monaghan's writing to me.
The way Jack and Blair talk about art and reading really stuck with me throughout the book. I didn't realize (or just forgot) that Jack was a character in Into the Woods, but I should have guessed, just by the way the conversations about creation in this one resonated with me the same way they did with Into the Woods and Canadian Boyfriend. These are all truly standalone romance novels—truly!—and yet knowing they all exist in the same universe makes me want to go back and read them all again just because it makes me so happy.
Anyways! Can't stop won't stop thinking about how they became friends over text first (so well paced!), and the feeding of the crows, and cahoots and lakey, and that very last article clipping (and all the article clips as a way to world build the universe of the novel). I would wait forever for Jenny Holiday's books because they are always excellent, and I'm also super excited that I only have to wait until October for another one!
July 19, 2026
4 ⭐ ⊹ 1 🌶️ ⊹ 385 📖 ⊹ 10h 52m 🎧
⁀➴ Overall: I really liked this later in life romance story! The MCs both had incredible vocabularies and I loved all of the word games and banter!
⋆⟢ Tropes + Vibes:
📚 author x hollywood producer
❤️ forced proximity
💙 MCs in their late 30s
📚 grumpy x sunshine
❤️ mental health rep
💙 quick-witted banter
🤍 third person, dual POV
⁀➴ Bookish Breakdown:
This was a really enjoyable read! It has a lot of great representation, doesn’t rush through plot points, and gives space for the characters to really reflect and grow.
I loved watching Blair’s journey. She is an absolute joy of a character. She’s funny, witty, and ambitious. She goes after what she wants and takes accountability for her actions. She’s been through various ups and downs which have shaped her.
Jack was a great grumpy to Blair’s sunshine. He had so many strong opinions, including not wanting to be vulnerable with anyone. He has trouble processing where he is now and reconciling that with his upbringing.
Eventually, the two form an unlikely but beautiful pair. It’s very sweet to watch them interact after both of them have been out of the game for a while. Neither really wants to take the next step despite really wanting to take the next step! It’s a slow burn but the payoff is wonderful!
Thank you, NetGalley, Jenny Holiday, and Forever for the ARC! All opinions are mine.
⁀➴ Overall: I really liked this later in life romance story! The MCs both had incredible vocabularies and I loved all of the word games and banter!
⋆⟢ Tropes + Vibes:
📚 author x hollywood producer
❤️ forced proximity
💙 MCs in their late 30s
📚 grumpy x sunshine
❤️ mental health rep
💙 quick-witted banter
🤍 third person, dual POV
⁀➴ Bookish Breakdown:
This was a really enjoyable read! It has a lot of great representation, doesn’t rush through plot points, and gives space for the characters to really reflect and grow.
I loved watching Blair’s journey. She is an absolute joy of a character. She’s funny, witty, and ambitious. She goes after what she wants and takes accountability for her actions. She’s been through various ups and downs which have shaped her.
Jack was a great grumpy to Blair’s sunshine. He had so many strong opinions, including not wanting to be vulnerable with anyone. He has trouble processing where he is now and reconciling that with his upbringing.
Eventually, the two form an unlikely but beautiful pair. It’s very sweet to watch them interact after both of them have been out of the game for a while. Neither really wants to take the next step despite really wanting to take the next step! It’s a slow burn but the payoff is wonderful!
Thank you, NetGalley, Jenny Holiday, and Forever for the ARC! All opinions are mine.
August 20, 2026
2.5 ⭐️ I wish this book lived up to this cover and title. It was lacking in the book club and romance department. Yes it is about a writer and a movie producer with a book club but it really wasn’t swoon worthy at all. This reads more like women’s fiction and even misses in that regard. It just feels superficial and didn’t dig into these characters with any emotion or depth. I have no idea why these two even liked each other romantically… on top of that NOTHING and I mean nothing happens in this book. It was very boring and slow. The only reason why I didn’t rate this even lower is because I did laugh a few times, the banter was okay and I liked the murder of crows. That’s really it. I didn’t buy into these character’s love story and felt nothing towards this story - sorry! I really did try in that I read and grabbed the audio and neither really pulled me in.
This was my first Jenny Holiday book and I honestly don’t think I will check out more. This was a little too slow and Hallmarky for me. Plus it was open door at the very end (kind of) and it felt SO out of place and half baked. It should have been closed door if you aren’t going to go all in and do it right.
TLDR:
* Mega super slow burn. RE: boring
* Didn’t feel any chemistry between mmc and fmc
* Some LOL moments
Thank you to Netgalley and Forever Publishing for the advanced digital galley in exchange for my honest review.
This was my 82nd book of 2026
Format: Gifted e-galley and libby audio
This was my first Jenny Holiday book and I honestly don’t think I will check out more. This was a little too slow and Hallmarky for me. Plus it was open door at the very end (kind of) and it felt SO out of place and half baked. It should have been closed door if you aren’t going to go all in and do it right.
TLDR:
* Mega super slow burn. RE: boring
* Didn’t feel any chemistry between mmc and fmc
* Some LOL moments
Thank you to Netgalley and Forever Publishing for the advanced digital galley in exchange for my honest review.
This was my 82nd book of 2026
Format: Gifted e-galley and libby audio
July 19, 2026
After a few dark reads, I needed a lighter read and even if the author is new-to-me, I thought, from the blurb, that this book would be exactly what I needed : a cozy romance with some of my favorite tropes.
And then, something happened. The easy, cozy, predictable book I was expecting happened to be not so much easy and predictable after all (it was my fault for assuming).
The characters were flawed and authentic with personal challenges. Especially Blair with her self worth.
I loved the slow-burn part : they get to discover each other and become friends first.
So yes, it was funny, warm and cozy. The banter between Jack and Blair was hilarious. But it was so much more than that, I really liked it.
And then, something happened. The easy, cozy, predictable book I was expecting happened to be not so much easy and predictable after all (it was my fault for assuming).
The characters were flawed and authentic with personal challenges. Especially Blair with her self worth.
I loved the slow-burn part : they get to discover each other and become friends first.
So yes, it was funny, warm and cozy. The banter between Jack and Blair was hilarious. But it was so much more than that, I really liked it.
August 1, 2026
Intro/synopsis:
“Book Club Boyfriend” was not my normal read in terms of plot line. Blair is a recently divorced actress turned producer. She recently tried to get the author of In Time, Jack, to agree to have his book be part of her book club but her turned her down. He feels bad after the fact and reaches out via text. The strike up a friendship via texts that ends with him admitting to writers block on his second book and her inviting him to stay in her pool house for a change of scenery. He notices that when he talks with her he is able to write and agrees to come despite many misgivings. They are unlikely friends but can their friendship give way to more?
My thoughts:
This was such an interesting book both it the plot but also how Blair and Jack confronted their individual traumas with each others support. Their relationship was really different than any other romance I have read but the story was so well written and developed that their constant conflicts and the push and pulls of their relationship seemed natural. I found myself rooting for them and their relationship from the start and Jack was so sweet with Blair all while being so aloof. I loved how Blair gave Jack his space when needed but cared for him in her own way as well. Such a good read despite my misgivings in terms of the tropes that were present.
Tropes in question: Slow burn, third act break up, enemies to friends to lovers, forced proximity
5⭐️’s
1🌶️
“Book Club Boyfriend” was not my normal read in terms of plot line. Blair is a recently divorced actress turned producer. She recently tried to get the author of In Time, Jack, to agree to have his book be part of her book club but her turned her down. He feels bad after the fact and reaches out via text. The strike up a friendship via texts that ends with him admitting to writers block on his second book and her inviting him to stay in her pool house for a change of scenery. He notices that when he talks with her he is able to write and agrees to come despite many misgivings. They are unlikely friends but can their friendship give way to more?
My thoughts:
This was such an interesting book both it the plot but also how Blair and Jack confronted their individual traumas with each others support. Their relationship was really different than any other romance I have read but the story was so well written and developed that their constant conflicts and the push and pulls of their relationship seemed natural. I found myself rooting for them and their relationship from the start and Jack was so sweet with Blair all while being so aloof. I loved how Blair gave Jack his space when needed but cared for him in her own way as well. Such a good read despite my misgivings in terms of the tropes that were present.
Tropes in question: Slow burn, third act break up, enemies to friends to lovers, forced proximity
5⭐️’s
1🌶️
Did Not Finish
August 5, 2026I absolutely loved the premise of this book, especially with grumpy x sunshine characters who had a meet-disaster! I enjoyed Jack and Blair's banter and their authenticity. Their story is very much a slow-burn, which I wasn't quite in the mood for but absolutely pefect for those who love a story with real characters who relationship builds up over time. I ended up setting this book aside at the 40% mark because I was in the mood for something a little faster-paced.
Thank you so much to Forever for the advanced copy in return for my honest review!
Thank you so much to Forever for the advanced copy in return for my honest review!
August 3, 2026
Rating: 3.5/5
Book Club Boyfriend would make such a great Summer Vacation travel read. It’s light, fun, and features relatable characters and themes that readers can resonate with. And reads fairly quickly. I enjoyed the slow-burn aspect of Blair and Jack's romance. The texts were fun. Also, can I say how I love it when authors give their chapters names other than Chapter 12! But instead, Chapter 12 Be More Like Meryl Streep. Overall, it was a fun rom-com.
Thank you to Forever Books for the gifted e-copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Book Club Boyfriend would make such a great Summer Vacation travel read. It’s light, fun, and features relatable characters and themes that readers can resonate with. And reads fairly quickly. I enjoyed the slow-burn aspect of Blair and Jack's romance. The texts were fun. Also, can I say how I love it when authors give their chapters names other than Chapter 12! But instead, Chapter 12 Be More Like Meryl Streep. Overall, it was a fun rom-com.
Thank you to Forever Books for the gifted e-copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Read
April 10, 2026Thank to @Netgalley for the advanced copy of this book.
I truly enjoyed this book and did not want to put it down.
I find that through Holiday's writing, I was able to feel the emotions of each character.
This will be a to read book for the summer!
I truly enjoyed this book and did not want to put it down.
I find that through Holiday's writing, I was able to feel the emotions of each character.
This will be a to read book for the summer!
July 22, 2026
𝟱⭐️𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗖𝗹𝘂𝗯 𝗕𝗼𝘆𝗳𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝗯𝘆 𝗝𝗲𝗻𝗻𝘆 𝗛𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗱𝗮𝘆.
I feel like this book came out of nowhere with how much I loved it. Something about the title didn’t immediately grab me but since I love Jenny I requested it and I am so grateful for past me. It might possibly be the slowest burn, like it was torture how slow these two went from enemies to friends to lovers. I never expected to be so hot and bothered by holding hands and playing footsies on the couch but here we are. 🤭
Fun fact: I read this picturing Reese Witherspoon as the FMC so it was funny to read from the author that it was loosely inspired by the infamous by the Oprah and Jonathan Franzen feud when she uninvited him from her book club.
Blair Kellermoon is a former rom-com star turned producer who has a book club à la Reese’s Book Club. Jack Branksome is a brilliant but very prickly new author who flats out refuse to be part of her book club. Blair is bubbly and bright but also newly divorced + empty nesting. Jack is snooty and grumpy, but also deeply attentive and the two opposites form a very unlikely friendship over text when he reaches out to apologize. Text turn into Jack heading to LA to live in Blair’s pool house to finish writing in next novel. There are morning hikes. Brush of the hands. Spying on the crazy neighbour and some crow feeding. This book was an absolute delight and should be on your radar.
“𝗔𝗻𝗱 𝗕𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗿’𝘀 𝗕𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗿𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝘀𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗼𝗱𝗮𝘆. 𝗠𝗮𝘆𝗯𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘆 𝘀𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱 𝗵𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝘀𝗮𝘁 𝗮𝘁 𝗮 𝘁𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲, 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝘀𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝗱𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗯𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗺. 𝗧𝗵𝗲𝘆 𝘄𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝘀𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝘁𝗼 𝘀𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗶𝗿 𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗼𝗹𝘀, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗶𝘁 𝗳𝗲𝗹𝘁 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗻𝗲𝘅𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗮 𝗴𝗶𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝗺𝗮𝗴𝗻𝗲𝘁. 𝗛𝗲 𝗵𝗮𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗰𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗼𝗻 𝗺𝗮𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝗶𝘅 𝗼𝗿 𝘀𝗼 𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗵𝗲𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝘀𝗽𝗮𝗰𝗲 𝗯𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗺.”
“𝗢𝗵 𝗚𝗼𝗱,” 𝗵𝗲 𝗯𝗶𝘁 𝗼𝘂𝘁, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗵𝗲 𝗵𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗵𝗼𝘄 𝗰𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗵é𝗱, 𝗵𝗼𝘄 𝗻𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗳𝗶𝗰, 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗿𝗲𝗳𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻 𝘄𝗮𝘀, 𝗯𝘂𝘁 𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗱𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘂𝘀𝘂𝗮𝗹𝗹𝘆 𝗹𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗱 𝗶𝗻 𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗵𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗵𝗮𝗱 𝗲𝘃𝗮𝗽𝗼𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱. 𝗦𝗵𝗲 𝗸𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗱 𝗵𝗶𝗺, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗶𝘁 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝗮𝘀 𝗶𝗳 𝗵𝗲’𝗱 𝗻𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗯𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝗸𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗱 𝗯𝗲𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗲. 𝗛𝗲𝗿 𝗹𝗶𝗽𝘀 𝘄𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝘀𝗼𝗳𝘁 𝗯𝘂𝘁...𝗯𝗼𝘀𝘀𝘆. 𝗟𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝗵𝗲𝗿, 𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗼𝘀𝗲𝗱.”
Thank you to NetGalley, Forever Grand Central Publishing and the author Jenny Holiday for the advanced reading copy, all my opinions are my own.
I feel like this book came out of nowhere with how much I loved it. Something about the title didn’t immediately grab me but since I love Jenny I requested it and I am so grateful for past me. It might possibly be the slowest burn, like it was torture how slow these two went from enemies to friends to lovers. I never expected to be so hot and bothered by holding hands and playing footsies on the couch but here we are. 🤭
Fun fact: I read this picturing Reese Witherspoon as the FMC so it was funny to read from the author that it was loosely inspired by the infamous by the Oprah and Jonathan Franzen feud when she uninvited him from her book club.
Blair Kellermoon is a former rom-com star turned producer who has a book club à la Reese’s Book Club. Jack Branksome is a brilliant but very prickly new author who flats out refuse to be part of her book club. Blair is bubbly and bright but also newly divorced + empty nesting. Jack is snooty and grumpy, but also deeply attentive and the two opposites form a very unlikely friendship over text when he reaches out to apologize. Text turn into Jack heading to LA to live in Blair’s pool house to finish writing in next novel. There are morning hikes. Brush of the hands. Spying on the crazy neighbour and some crow feeding. This book was an absolute delight and should be on your radar.
“𝗔𝗻𝗱 𝗕𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗿’𝘀 𝗕𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗿𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝘀𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗼𝗱𝗮𝘆. 𝗠𝗮𝘆𝗯𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘆 𝘀𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱 𝗵𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝘀𝗮𝘁 𝗮𝘁 𝗮 𝘁𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲, 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝘀𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝗱𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗯𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗺. 𝗧𝗵𝗲𝘆 𝘄𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝘀𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝘁𝗼 𝘀𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗶𝗿 𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗼𝗹𝘀, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗶𝘁 𝗳𝗲𝗹𝘁 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗻𝗲𝘅𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗮 𝗴𝗶𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝗺𝗮𝗴𝗻𝗲𝘁. 𝗛𝗲 𝗵𝗮𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗰𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗼𝗻 𝗺𝗮𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝗶𝘅 𝗼𝗿 𝘀𝗼 𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗵𝗲𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝘀𝗽𝗮𝗰𝗲 𝗯𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗺.”
“𝗢𝗵 𝗚𝗼𝗱,” 𝗵𝗲 𝗯𝗶𝘁 𝗼𝘂𝘁, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗵𝗲 𝗵𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗵𝗼𝘄 𝗰𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗵é𝗱, 𝗵𝗼𝘄 𝗻𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗳𝗶𝗰, 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗿𝗲𝗳𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻 𝘄𝗮𝘀, 𝗯𝘂𝘁 𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗱𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘂𝘀𝘂𝗮𝗹𝗹𝘆 𝗹𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗱 𝗶𝗻 𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗵𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗵𝗮𝗱 𝗲𝘃𝗮𝗽𝗼𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱. 𝗦𝗵𝗲 𝗸𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗱 𝗵𝗶𝗺, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗶𝘁 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝗮𝘀 𝗶𝗳 𝗵𝗲’𝗱 𝗻𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗯𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝗸𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗱 𝗯𝗲𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗲. 𝗛𝗲𝗿 𝗹𝗶𝗽𝘀 𝘄𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝘀𝗼𝗳𝘁 𝗯𝘂𝘁...𝗯𝗼𝘀𝘀𝘆. 𝗟𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝗵𝗲𝗿, 𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗼𝘀𝗲𝗱.”
Thank you to NetGalley, Forever Grand Central Publishing and the author Jenny Holiday for the advanced reading copy, all my opinions are my own.
July 16, 2026
Reviewed for Dear Author. 4.5 stars
Link to come.
Link to come.
July 20, 2026
This read more like a litfic than a little cute romance - but I still enjoyed it.
August 6, 2026
This was a drop-everything-and-read book for me. THese two characters aren't like my usual faves, but I warmed to them quickly and had to see what was going to happen for each - and for them together. A lot of the individual growth happened off page, and it still worked for me. Loved this! (Language, sex, TW: mental health, anxiety, OCD)
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