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Breakup Buddies
Three holidays. Two coasts. One breakup recovery app.
Zero chance of staying just friends.
Alix swore off serious. Grace swore off messy.
Neither expected to fall for someone they met on a heartbreak anonymous app.
But when their holiday meet‑ups stretch from Miami to Colorado to LA, long distance and the fear of losing their friendship might be the only things standing in the way of something real.
Now they’ll have to decide if love is worth the leap. Because sometimes the season’s magic isn’t in the lights. It’s in who you find when you stop pretending you’re fine.
Breakup Buddies is a slow-burn, big-heart, super cozy sapphic rom-com about being seen and chosen, and then finding your way home for the holidays.
Zero chance of staying just friends.
Alix swore off serious. Grace swore off messy.
Neither expected to fall for someone they met on a heartbreak anonymous app.
But when their holiday meet‑ups stretch from Miami to Colorado to LA, long distance and the fear of losing their friendship might be the only things standing in the way of something real.
Now they’ll have to decide if love is worth the leap. Because sometimes the season’s magic isn’t in the lights. It’s in who you find when you stop pretending you’re fine.
Breakup Buddies is a slow-burn, big-heart, super cozy sapphic rom-com about being seen and chosen, and then finding your way home for the holidays.
371 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 21, 2025
323 people are currently reading
817 people want to read
About the author
J.J. Arias
36 books1,269 followersHello! And thank you for finding me!
I am an independent author writing about fictional lesbians of all varieties.
My writing journey began with fan faction, and as much as I LOVED being part of a community of super fans, I got tired of working with other people’s characters to tell my stories. I started asking myself: Why should we string together pieces of subtext when our community deserves well-developed main-text about LBGT people and those who love them! So, that is what I aim to deliver.
If you want to know a little more about me personally, J.J. Arias is my pen name. I do have a day job, and due to the industry I’m in, I can’t write under my given name. Although who knows, maybe one day I can write full-time and come out of the … office? I am a Scorpio woman (I know, I know, but I’m a nice one I PROMISE) happily married to a uniquely wonderful Cancer lady. Together we have several fur babies of the feline and canine varieties.
So, here I am, and I hope you enjoy my writing! I’m very open to thoughts, comments, critiques, and knock-knock jokes, so please feel free to message me with any of the above – or anything else you would like to say!
I am an independent author writing about fictional lesbians of all varieties.
My writing journey began with fan faction, and as much as I LOVED being part of a community of super fans, I got tired of working with other people’s characters to tell my stories. I started asking myself: Why should we string together pieces of subtext when our community deserves well-developed main-text about LBGT people and those who love them! So, that is what I aim to deliver.
If you want to know a little more about me personally, J.J. Arias is my pen name. I do have a day job, and due to the industry I’m in, I can’t write under my given name. Although who knows, maybe one day I can write full-time and come out of the … office? I am a Scorpio woman (I know, I know, but I’m a nice one I PROMISE) happily married to a uniquely wonderful Cancer lady. Together we have several fur babies of the feline and canine varieties.
So, here I am, and I hope you enjoy my writing! I’m very open to thoughts, comments, critiques, and knock-knock jokes, so please feel free to message me with any of the above – or anything else you would like to say!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 122 reviews
November 24, 2025
4.5 ⭐
"But God help her, she wanted to. She wanted to ruin the hell out of this friendship".
I need to talk about this humorous romance because it absolutely stole my heart. Our two FMCs meet on an app called “Breakup Buddies,” where they start off venting about their sad love lives… and then those messages slowly turn into something deeper. So deep, in fact, that they decide to meet in person—and that’s when things get really good.
First we have Grace, a partner at a law firm who just broke up with her coworker Julie—a manipulative ex who never had the courage to make their relationship public. Grace’s confidence is basically in pieces. Enter Alix, a hairdresser, who’s trying to get over her own ex and move on for good. What I adored about these two is how genuinely they see each other, which is exactly what makes their bond so special. Alix helps Grace realize she’s not “too much,” and Grace helps Alix understand she’s absolutely worth choosing. Watching them grow together felt so soft and so real.
Now, I’m not usually a big fan of stories where the characters get to know each other mainly through messages—I normally feel a little detached—but this one? Completely different story. Their conversations hooked me right away. Some messages made me laugh out loud, others made me tear up, and the fact that a text exchange gave me goosebumps so early on says a lot. And when they finally meet in person? Pure magic. No awkward first-meeting vibes—just two people who click instantly. I adored how they both fought for each other even with all their insecurities. Their moments together felt so innocent and tender at times, like they were discovering love for the very first time. My heart MELTED. Besides, the chemistry is strong from the start, and as the story moves forward it deepens into this gentle, intimate slow burn that felt absolutely delicious.
The side characters were such a treat too. Both Grace’s and Alix’s friends were supportive, warm, and fun. I loved the family dynamics, especially Alix’s relationship with her mom. Seeing the two of them reconnect after so long—learning each other again, healing old wounds, and seeing each other with fresh eyes—added so much emotion to the story.
I also have to say, even though I hadn’t read anything by Bryce before, I definitely will now; plus, this might be one of Aria’s strongest books yet. Their writing styles balance each other so well that this collaboration feels like something I didn’t even know I needed.
If I had one tiny critique, it would be the pacing. The first half flows beautifully, but once the characters finally get together, the story slows down a bit and loses some momentum here and there. But honestly, that didn’t stop me from loving the whole experience.
If you’re craving a book that tugs at your heartstrings, gives you all the feels, and reminds you why we root for true love, this one is so worth picking up.
"But God help her, she wanted to. She wanted to ruin the hell out of this friendship".
I need to talk about this humorous romance because it absolutely stole my heart. Our two FMCs meet on an app called “Breakup Buddies,” where they start off venting about their sad love lives… and then those messages slowly turn into something deeper. So deep, in fact, that they decide to meet in person—and that’s when things get really good.
First we have Grace, a partner at a law firm who just broke up with her coworker Julie—a manipulative ex who never had the courage to make their relationship public. Grace’s confidence is basically in pieces. Enter Alix, a hairdresser, who’s trying to get over her own ex and move on for good. What I adored about these two is how genuinely they see each other, which is exactly what makes their bond so special. Alix helps Grace realize she’s not “too much,” and Grace helps Alix understand she’s absolutely worth choosing. Watching them grow together felt so soft and so real.
Now, I’m not usually a big fan of stories where the characters get to know each other mainly through messages—I normally feel a little detached—but this one? Completely different story. Their conversations hooked me right away. Some messages made me laugh out loud, others made me tear up, and the fact that a text exchange gave me goosebumps so early on says a lot. And when they finally meet in person? Pure magic. No awkward first-meeting vibes—just two people who click instantly. I adored how they both fought for each other even with all their insecurities. Their moments together felt so innocent and tender at times, like they were discovering love for the very first time. My heart MELTED. Besides, the chemistry is strong from the start, and as the story moves forward it deepens into this gentle, intimate slow burn that felt absolutely delicious.
The side characters were such a treat too. Both Grace’s and Alix’s friends were supportive, warm, and fun. I loved the family dynamics, especially Alix’s relationship with her mom. Seeing the two of them reconnect after so long—learning each other again, healing old wounds, and seeing each other with fresh eyes—added so much emotion to the story.
I also have to say, even though I hadn’t read anything by Bryce before, I definitely will now; plus, this might be one of Aria’s strongest books yet. Their writing styles balance each other so well that this collaboration feels like something I didn’t even know I needed.
If I had one tiny critique, it would be the pacing. The first half flows beautifully, but once the characters finally get together, the story slows down a bit and loses some momentum here and there. But honestly, that didn’t stop me from loving the whole experience.
If you’re craving a book that tugs at your heartstrings, gives you all the feels, and reminds you why we root for true love, this one is so worth picking up.
December 27, 2025
I had been waiting for this book for so long and couldn't wait to finally start reading it. And what can I say? It drove me to the brink of insanity at times! Oh my gosh, patience is definitely not my strong suit.
I loved the two main characters, Alix and Grace. I was immediately hooked on their relationship. But I also loved the supporting characters, some of whom were so funny. I had a great time, whether it was Thanksgiving with Grace's family or Christmas with Alix's family.
The banter between Alix and Grace was sooo amazing. I had to laugh so hard at some of the messages.
I loved how their relationship developed from complete strangers to acquaintances, friends, and lovers. For me, the book was a 4-star read for most of the time, but the last 150 pages just blew me away and I devoured it. The intensity, emotionality, extreme longing, and despair drew me deep into the story.
Highly recommended! J.J. Arias and Bryce Oakley have written a cozy, steamy, heartbreaking, and at the same time heartwarming rom-com.
I loved the two main characters, Alix and Grace. I was immediately hooked on their relationship. But I also loved the supporting characters, some of whom were so funny. I had a great time, whether it was Thanksgiving with Grace's family or Christmas with Alix's family.
The banter between Alix and Grace was sooo amazing. I had to laugh so hard at some of the messages.
I loved how their relationship developed from complete strangers to acquaintances, friends, and lovers. For me, the book was a 4-star read for most of the time, but the last 150 pages just blew me away and I devoured it. The intensity, emotionality, extreme longing, and despair drew me deep into the story.
Highly recommended! J.J. Arias and Bryce Oakley have written a cozy, steamy, heartbreaking, and at the same time heartwarming rom-com.
December 10, 2025
This book is pure genius and is amazing from beginning to end. I adore JJ’s books and Bryce is a new to me author this year. So safe to say I’ve read a fair few of both of these authors books. So did I have any doubts they could pull this off as a duo?? Hell no! But did they surpass those expectations? Hell yeah they did, and with flying colours! The writing is flawless between them and it was so witty and funny, I laughed out loud on a number of occasions. I legit just had my own goofy smile on my face the whole time Grace and Alix probably had their own goofy smiles whilst texting each other 😂
I loved the mention of familiar past characters 😉
A moment for the spice….it was so so good and just perfect. And something I always like to see, the femme topping the masc!! Yesss!!!! 🫠
Go read it. Now. As a Christmas read or honestly, an any time read!
Written in third person with 2x POV’s. Friends to Lovers, Opposites Attract, Masc/Femme, Return to Hometown. 4x Spicy Scenes.(There is an extra spicy scene in the bonus epilogue 😏).
I loved the mention of familiar past characters 😉
A moment for the spice….it was so so good and just perfect. And something I always like to see, the femme topping the masc!! Yesss!!!! 🫠
Go read it. Now. As a Christmas read or honestly, an any time read!
Written in third person with 2x POV’s. Friends to Lovers, Opposites Attract, Masc/Femme, Return to Hometown. 4x Spicy Scenes.(There is an extra spicy scene in the bonus epilogue 😏).
November 26, 2025
Just effing delicious! The perfectly cozy and heartwarming holiday read that I needed. Who knew Santa would deliver the Bryce and JJ duo. It doesn’t hit you over the head with holidays, as it’s spread out over a few of the winter holidays. But it will hit you over the head with all the good feels.
The first thing that captured my heart was the text banter between Alix & Grace. That’s not an easy for any author to pull off, and they just slayed. I was smiling and laughing and rooting for them. Next, the writing was just dreamy. I’m a huge sucker for a well written metaphor and the figurative devices used in this melted my heart.
Grace was told she was too much and Alix was told she was never enough. To paraphrase Collins and Angel from Rent, Grace’s baggage went with Alix’s. The secondary characters added to the story and cheered on the couple coming together, I especially loved Baby, the Newfoundland. While the journey wasn’t easy, waiting all the way to Chapter 27 for 🌶️, it was definitely worth the wait. This one will definitely go in my holiday rotation and stay there forever!
The first thing that captured my heart was the text banter between Alix & Grace. That’s not an easy for any author to pull off, and they just slayed. I was smiling and laughing and rooting for them. Next, the writing was just dreamy. I’m a huge sucker for a well written metaphor and the figurative devices used in this melted my heart.
Grace was told she was too much and Alix was told she was never enough. To paraphrase Collins and Angel from Rent, Grace’s baggage went with Alix’s. The secondary characters added to the story and cheered on the couple coming together, I especially loved Baby, the Newfoundland. While the journey wasn’t easy, waiting all the way to Chapter 27 for 🌶️, it was definitely worth the wait. This one will definitely go in my holiday rotation and stay there forever!
January 17, 2026
RTC
i spent the whole book kicking my feet and giggling if you even care!!!!!!!
i spent the whole book kicking my feet and giggling if you even care!!!!!!!
January 10, 2026
Ohhhh my heart—Breakup Buddies by J.J. Arias and Bryce Oakley is everything I want in a sapphic holiday romance and more. Like, hand it over, this is my emotional support rom-com now. This collab? A literal dream team. These two authors joining forces gave us a tender, hilarious, spicy, slow-burn gift wrapped in holiday magic and topped with a queer little bow.
From the jump, the premise is giving me life: two women bonding over heartbreak via an anonymous breakup recovery app?? I mean, how Gen Z-meets-Lesbian Nora Ephron is that?? Alix and Grace meet in this uniquely modern, ultra-relatable way and then start hopping from one holiday hangout to another—from sun-soaked Miami to snowy Colorado to glitzy LA. And with every single trip, that spark between them? It builds. SLOWLY. PAINFULLY. DELICIOUSLY.
I was obsessed with the slow burn. It’s so well done—executed with that perfect combo of longing, humor, vulnerability, and “oh no we’re just friends!!” denial that makes me want to gently shake fictional people. Their chemistry is SO real, SO lived-in, and the emotional tension had me giggling and kicking my feet like a teenager even though these babes are gloriously 30+ lesbians and COMMUNICATE like adults.
Seriously, mature lesbians in fiction are my jam and this book delivers. Grace and Alix are both flawed and messy and so, so human. They fumble, they feel "too much", and they work through it instead of spiraling into unnecessary drama. NO third-act breakup here, folks!!! That’s right. We’re being fed emotionally evolved lesbians with actual conversations and growth, and I am eternally grateful.
And can we please talk about the spice? Like…STRAPS WERE STRAPPED, BABES. 🔥 The steamy scenes are passionate, intimate, and beautifully written—every bit as swoony and satisfying as the emotional beats. This book is equal parts heart and heat, and honestly? That’s my favorite combo.
Also, the humor. I laughed out loud so many times—there are these absolute gem moments sprinkled throughout, like the “Shrikes & Roxxxy” concert tees (IYKYK), the silly inside jokes, and just the easy banter that feels real and lived-in and sweet. This is rom-com gold with big lesbian energy.
And don’t think I missed the Brynn Marshall reference. Are we building a sapphic shared universe?? Is there going to be a queer crossover event of my dreams??? I’m ready.
Breakup Buddies feels like getting a warm hug from a friend you haven’t seen in forever—it’s comforting, nostalgic, and fresh all at once. Bryce Oakley and J.J. Arias gave us a book that honors sapphic love in all its messy, mature, hilarious glory. If you’re craving a holiday read that brings all the feels, skips the drama, and leans into real connection, this is the one. 💕
Now excuse me while I go full-on investigator mode to find more clues about these little easter eggs....
From the jump, the premise is giving me life: two women bonding over heartbreak via an anonymous breakup recovery app?? I mean, how Gen Z-meets-Lesbian Nora Ephron is that?? Alix and Grace meet in this uniquely modern, ultra-relatable way and then start hopping from one holiday hangout to another—from sun-soaked Miami to snowy Colorado to glitzy LA. And with every single trip, that spark between them? It builds. SLOWLY. PAINFULLY. DELICIOUSLY.
I was obsessed with the slow burn. It’s so well done—executed with that perfect combo of longing, humor, vulnerability, and “oh no we’re just friends!!” denial that makes me want to gently shake fictional people. Their chemistry is SO real, SO lived-in, and the emotional tension had me giggling and kicking my feet like a teenager even though these babes are gloriously 30+ lesbians and COMMUNICATE like adults.
Seriously, mature lesbians in fiction are my jam and this book delivers. Grace and Alix are both flawed and messy and so, so human. They fumble, they feel "too much", and they work through it instead of spiraling into unnecessary drama. NO third-act breakup here, folks!!! That’s right. We’re being fed emotionally evolved lesbians with actual conversations and growth, and I am eternally grateful.
And can we please talk about the spice? Like…STRAPS WERE STRAPPED, BABES. 🔥 The steamy scenes are passionate, intimate, and beautifully written—every bit as swoony and satisfying as the emotional beats. This book is equal parts heart and heat, and honestly? That’s my favorite combo.
Also, the humor. I laughed out loud so many times—there are these absolute gem moments sprinkled throughout, like the “Shrikes & Roxxxy” concert tees (IYKYK), the silly inside jokes, and just the easy banter that feels real and lived-in and sweet. This is rom-com gold with big lesbian energy.
And don’t think I missed the Brynn Marshall reference. Are we building a sapphic shared universe?? Is there going to be a queer crossover event of my dreams??? I’m ready.
Breakup Buddies feels like getting a warm hug from a friend you haven’t seen in forever—it’s comforting, nostalgic, and fresh all at once. Bryce Oakley and J.J. Arias gave us a book that honors sapphic love in all its messy, mature, hilarious glory. If you’re craving a holiday read that brings all the feels, skips the drama, and leans into real connection, this is the one. 💕
Now excuse me while I go full-on investigator mode to find more clues about these little easter eggs....
November 22, 2025
When two favourite authors decide to collaborate, this is of course a must read. I am happy to report that they didn’t disappoint. This is one of the best holiday books I have ever read, it is like being wrapped by a warm hug and you just sit and enjoy the ride. I recommend this book to all readers that need comfort, but it is also a prime example of wonderful writing and even if it is a slow burn, it gets mighty spicy after a while. The chemistry between Grace and Alix is beyond hot, they are just perfect for each other. The big question is whether they will get that they are perfect for each other themselves and can find a solution to their long-distance relationship.
November 28, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4.5/5
Absolutely loved this. No surprise there—I’m a fan of both authors, so when I saw they had co-written a book together, I was instantly excited. And it did not disappoint. The writing is seamless, the romance is wonderfully tender in that very lesbian, very heart-squeezing way. It’s got all the feels of a perfect holiday sapphic rom-com: sexy, sweet, funny.
I also adored the little references to one of Ruby Landers’ characters and, of course, to my all-time fave JJ Arias character, Roxxxy.
A couple of tiny things kept it from being a full 5:
– I would have enjoyed just a bit more angst. The whole journey was maybe a touch too smooth, and they seemed to get over their exes pretty quickly. I expected at least a hint of jealousy or emotional messiness when things first shifted between them.
– The ending stretched a little too long—almost like the authors didn’t want to say goodbye to the story (and honestly, fair), but it did get slightly repetitive and drifted into cheesy territory.
But honestly? I loved it, and I will absolutely be rereading this.
Absolutely loved this. No surprise there—I’m a fan of both authors, so when I saw they had co-written a book together, I was instantly excited. And it did not disappoint. The writing is seamless, the romance is wonderfully tender in that very lesbian, very heart-squeezing way. It’s got all the feels of a perfect holiday sapphic rom-com: sexy, sweet, funny.
I also adored the little references to one of Ruby Landers’ characters and, of course, to my all-time fave JJ Arias character, Roxxxy.
A couple of tiny things kept it from being a full 5:
– I would have enjoyed just a bit more angst. The whole journey was maybe a touch too smooth, and they seemed to get over their exes pretty quickly. I expected at least a hint of jealousy or emotional messiness when things first shifted between them.
– The ending stretched a little too long—almost like the authors didn’t want to say goodbye to the story (and honestly, fair), but it did get slightly repetitive and drifted into cheesy territory.
But honestly? I loved it, and I will absolutely be rereading this.
November 29, 2025
This was cute and funny to read. The best part? It actually reminded me of how I met my wife and the first time she met my family.
Loved the banter over text messages.
This is a perfect xmassy reading when you want to have a couple of laughs and feel all warm inside.
ps. I am loving how authors are borrowing other characters from others. Yep, I noticed it. It made me giggle. It kinda makes them a whole big and happy family.
On another note, I had to smile at Grace being a Scorpio and Alix a Pisces... they kinda seemed reversed? Or maybe is my stereotypical brain thinking Pisces is more dramatic and neurotic than "I keep it all inside Scorpio (30 Oct baby here).
The meeting of the Cuban family had me snorting. My wife is vegetarian and she had to endure the exact same tratment. Piglet included.
Also, yay for the little blue dot among the red. Fingers crossed, Florida.
ps. the bonus scene? 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Loved the banter over text messages.
This is a perfect xmassy reading when you want to have a couple of laughs and feel all warm inside.
ps. I am loving how authors are borrowing other characters from others. Yep, I noticed it. It made me giggle. It kinda makes them a whole big and happy family.
On another note, I had to smile at Grace being a Scorpio and Alix a Pisces... they kinda seemed reversed? Or maybe is my stereotypical brain thinking Pisces is more dramatic and neurotic than "I keep it all inside Scorpio (30 Oct baby here).
The meeting of the Cuban family had me snorting. My wife is vegetarian and she had to endure the exact same tratment. Piglet included.
Also, yay for the little blue dot among the red. Fingers crossed, Florida.
ps. the bonus scene? 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
December 15, 2025
Utterly enjoyable. Great banter between two sweet and incredibly charming MCs.
4.5⭐️🎄
4.5⭐️🎄
November 28, 2025
The Best Sapphic Xmas Read
This was just the warm, festive hug that we need in these crappy times. It was cute, spicy, funny, and just brilliant. The combination of Arias' and Oakley's wit led to some fantastic one-liners throughout. The characters are sharp, sensitive, and relatable. The whole story just lifted my spirits and made me smile every time I picked it up. It was exactly what I needed, thank you authors. This is definitely my go-to Christmas read now. And I loved the little character mention/Easter egg from another sapphic author in there! Perhaps another collaboration could be in the works some day?
This was just the warm, festive hug that we need in these crappy times. It was cute, spicy, funny, and just brilliant. The combination of Arias' and Oakley's wit led to some fantastic one-liners throughout. The characters are sharp, sensitive, and relatable. The whole story just lifted my spirits and made me smile every time I picked it up. It was exactly what I needed, thank you authors. This is definitely my go-to Christmas read now. And I loved the little character mention/Easter egg from another sapphic author in there! Perhaps another collaboration could be in the works some day?
December 12, 2025
A sapphic holiday rom-com that had me smiling at the pages like an absolute fool!
The story follows the dual perspectives of Grace and Alix - two women who connect through heartbreak. We’ve all been there: how do you get over an ex? Well, these two try something I’ve never seen before: they download an anonymous heartbreak app 💔🤳
Their connection grows from anonymous agony aunts to friends to something much more 💕
Both writers craft characterisations that are wonderfully likeable, relatable, gorgeous, and engaging.
The slow-burn romance is a joy to watch unfold - from the smile that comes with seeing each other’s name light up their screens, to the effortless emotional intimacy that grows when someone feels safely at arm’s length, to showing up for one another in both the small and significant moments.
Their relationship develops across different holidays and cities, and I love that Alix makes Grace feel “more awake than she’d been in months”, and that she never has to hide any part of herself. I love, too, that Grace draws out sides of Alix she didn’t know she had.
There’s long distance and the fear of moving from friends to lovers, but the yearning, the desire, and the 🌶 between them are incredibly sexy - the urgency after such a slow burn is hot 🔥
Overall, this is a delightfully fun and sexy story about heartbreak, healing, and how the right people, and the right timing, can help us bounce back 🫶
And we’re also treated to a fab spicy bonus epilogue 🫠🫡
The story follows the dual perspectives of Grace and Alix - two women who connect through heartbreak. We’ve all been there: how do you get over an ex? Well, these two try something I’ve never seen before: they download an anonymous heartbreak app 💔🤳
Their connection grows from anonymous agony aunts to friends to something much more 💕
Both writers craft characterisations that are wonderfully likeable, relatable, gorgeous, and engaging.
The slow-burn romance is a joy to watch unfold - from the smile that comes with seeing each other’s name light up their screens, to the effortless emotional intimacy that grows when someone feels safely at arm’s length, to showing up for one another in both the small and significant moments.
Their relationship develops across different holidays and cities, and I love that Alix makes Grace feel “more awake than she’d been in months”, and that she never has to hide any part of herself. I love, too, that Grace draws out sides of Alix she didn’t know she had.
There’s long distance and the fear of moving from friends to lovers, but the yearning, the desire, and the 🌶 between them are incredibly sexy - the urgency after such a slow burn is hot 🔥
Overall, this is a delightfully fun and sexy story about heartbreak, healing, and how the right people, and the right timing, can help us bounce back 🫶
And we’re also treated to a fab spicy bonus epilogue 🫠🫡
November 22, 2025
Best holiday rom com, hands down.
My expectations for this book was high, knowing how both JJ and Bryce write. And unsurprisingly and in the best ways possible, Breakup Buddies surpassed all of my expectations. Legitimately, no notes, absolute perfection, the two of them writing together is absolutely lethal.
Bryce has this phenomenal way of writing such witty banter, the comedic timing is incredible, and all of her characters are crafted with such care that you can’t help but root for them. Even when you occasionally want to smack them upside their head. Bryce creates these quiet intimate moments that has you kicking your feet. All of her books, I’ve read thus far, without fail has had me grinning like an idiot at my phone reading.
Then you have JJ, one of my favorite authors, who continues to write such beautifully unapologetic women. Women who don’t shy away from embracing their culture and heritage. Women who champion their beliefs. Women who love loudly. And apparently women who have such a great culinary palette, that I’m always left drooling over their food. Not to mention, her ability to write the steamiest freaking scenes. It should be illegal that I had to wait until chapter 27 for that iconic spice. (It’s forgivable since this slow burn was so damn good and the build up was worth every page)
Like I said, Bryce and JJ writing together is a lethal combination. Their writing styles complement each other while also elevating it. I feel like I was highlighting every other sentence because it was either so witty or heartwarming (or freaking sexy as hell). The pacing was spot on, as our two (lovingly) idiots were falling in love, I was swooning along with them. God, Bryce and JJ really know how to craft a masterpiece of a love declaration.
This book is filled to the brim with fun and kooky shenanigans. Grace and Alix, may be the main characters, but are also rounded out with lovable side characters. Honestly, Breakup Buddies emits so much joy, that it should be an instant holiday classic.
Just read the damn book.
My expectations for this book was high, knowing how both JJ and Bryce write. And unsurprisingly and in the best ways possible, Breakup Buddies surpassed all of my expectations. Legitimately, no notes, absolute perfection, the two of them writing together is absolutely lethal.
Bryce has this phenomenal way of writing such witty banter, the comedic timing is incredible, and all of her characters are crafted with such care that you can’t help but root for them. Even when you occasionally want to smack them upside their head. Bryce creates these quiet intimate moments that has you kicking your feet. All of her books, I’ve read thus far, without fail has had me grinning like an idiot at my phone reading.
Then you have JJ, one of my favorite authors, who continues to write such beautifully unapologetic women. Women who don’t shy away from embracing their culture and heritage. Women who champion their beliefs. Women who love loudly. And apparently women who have such a great culinary palette, that I’m always left drooling over their food. Not to mention, her ability to write the steamiest freaking scenes. It should be illegal that I had to wait until chapter 27 for that iconic spice. (It’s forgivable since this slow burn was so damn good and the build up was worth every page)
Like I said, Bryce and JJ writing together is a lethal combination. Their writing styles complement each other while also elevating it. I feel like I was highlighting every other sentence because it was either so witty or heartwarming (or freaking sexy as hell). The pacing was spot on, as our two (lovingly) idiots were falling in love, I was swooning along with them. God, Bryce and JJ really know how to craft a masterpiece of a love declaration.
This book is filled to the brim with fun and kooky shenanigans. Grace and Alix, may be the main characters, but are also rounded out with lovable side characters. Honestly, Breakup Buddies emits so much joy, that it should be an instant holiday classic.
Just read the damn book.
November 25, 2025
Rating: 4.25 stars
Finally some LDR representation!!! What sapphic hasn't been in a LDR and yet it rarely comes up in romance. This is everything you want in a holiday rom com. It's silly, cozy, and fluffy. There's very little angst so if you're looking for something warm to read this holiday season, this is the book for you.
Finally some LDR representation!!! What sapphic hasn't been in a LDR and yet it rarely comes up in romance. This is everything you want in a holiday rom com. It's silly, cozy, and fluffy. There's very little angst so if you're looking for something warm to read this holiday season, this is the book for you.
December 9, 2025
(rounded down from 4.25)
This was sweet and enjoyable. I had a good time, the characters are very easy to root for, and the side characters are also fun. If I had to make an objection, it's that there really isn't much angst.
This was sweet and enjoyable. I had a good time, the characters are very easy to root for, and the side characters are also fun. If I had to make an objection, it's that there really isn't much angst.
November 23, 2025
I love a romance that has text messages. The longingggg, the development of connection, the spice, the beautifully formed sentences of these two incredible authors. I loved this book. Laugh out loud funny and tugging on my heart strings. Bryce and J.J. are a dynamic duo and I need more.
December 16, 2025
so this was amazing. i literally loved every character (except julie fuck you julie)
i genuinely can’t figure out the words to describe how much i loved the characters individually but oh my god. the YEARNING, i felt the love between the 2 characters so strongly, through every interaction it was like a tangible feeling. i love longing and that was the best i have ever read of it, this is the new standard for yearning.
it was also so fucking funny, the banter between the character was AMAZING i felt like i was listening to real conversations between bestfriends, and the jokes they made were so funny i was cracking up the whole time😂
i absolutely loved how we got to see each of their families, and how they celebrate the major american holidays in their own ways and see their lives.
AND THE SPICE??? that was done so well it was so much more than spice in this book, this was LOVE. raw and beautiful love oh my god this was PHENOMENAL.
i genuinely can’t figure out the words to describe how much i loved the characters individually but oh my god. the YEARNING, i felt the love between the 2 characters so strongly, through every interaction it was like a tangible feeling. i love longing and that was the best i have ever read of it, this is the new standard for yearning.
it was also so fucking funny, the banter between the character was AMAZING i felt like i was listening to real conversations between bestfriends, and the jokes they made were so funny i was cracking up the whole time😂
i absolutely loved how we got to see each of their families, and how they celebrate the major american holidays in their own ways and see their lives.
AND THE SPICE??? that was done so well it was so much more than spice in this book, this was LOVE. raw and beautiful love oh my god this was PHENOMENAL.
November 30, 2025
The best way to describe this is simply cute. A pretty straight forward holiday romance. Frankly not much happens but it’s cute anyway. I feel like for a holiday book it needed some more hijinks and conflict — but I did appreciate the fluffiness!
November 29, 2025
It was cute, but nothing really happens. The only plot to speak of is the romance, and despite two awful exes and two-hundred pages of pining, there was basically zero angst. Genuinely, the only negativity I encountered in the course of reading this book was my own reaction to being rudely reminded of JJ’s tedious gusano politics.
December 15, 2025
This is such a sweet festive romance, great humour and I always love text based banter.
Grace the organised cat loving Miami lawyer. Alix the confident tatooed LA based hair stylist.
They are both getting over break ups and meet via a break up app.
Great blend of authors Miami setting I guess was covered by JJ Arias and Colorado by Bryce Oakley it worked so well.
There's so many cute swoony moments in this. And quite spicy too.
Overall loved it.
Grace the organised cat loving Miami lawyer. Alix the confident tatooed LA based hair stylist.
They are both getting over break ups and meet via a break up app.
Great blend of authors Miami setting I guess was covered by JJ Arias and Colorado by Bryce Oakley it worked so well.
There's so many cute swoony moments in this. And quite spicy too.
Overall loved it.
January 7, 2026
4.25 stars. A sweet low-angst read!
January 12, 2026
3.5 ⭐️
The story was enjoyable overall. While there was nothing wrong with it, it wasn’t particularly memorable. It’s the kind of book you read once and probably don’t think about again.
The story was enjoyable overall. While there was nothing wrong with it, it wasn’t particularly memorable. It’s the kind of book you read once and probably don’t think about again.
December 31, 2025
4.5⭐️
Una gran colaboración, dos grandes protagonistas y un libro lleno de mucho ingenio y risas. La verdad me divertí mucho y entiendo el porqué de tan buenas calificaciones.
Ha sido un excelente texto para poner broche de oro a un año de lecturas de lo más variadas.
Una gran colaboración, dos grandes protagonistas y un libro lleno de mucho ingenio y risas. La verdad me divertí mucho y entiendo el porqué de tan buenas calificaciones.
Ha sido un excelente texto para poner broche de oro a un año de lecturas de lo más variadas.
December 20, 2025
This was FIRE, def one of my favorite Sapphic Romances.
Grace and Alix are everything to me, friends to lovers within sapphic relationships is one of my favorite tropes.
There were so many tender moments, like these are MY people!!!
Bryce and J.J did such an incredible job and I’m so happy that they shared this amazing story with us!! 🥹❤️
Let me go sob over how single I am now.
Grace and Alix are everything to me, friends to lovers within sapphic relationships is one of my favorite tropes.
There were so many tender moments, like these are MY people!!!
Bryce and J.J did such an incredible job and I’m so happy that they shared this amazing story with us!! 🥹❤️
Let me go sob over how single I am now.
December 18, 2025
The perfect book to end my holiday slump. This is such a cozy mult-holidays no angst, low drama, romcom read. Two adults who fall in love with each other slowly (slowly for a romance book anyway) over text, timezones and various shared holidays. NGL, showing the text conversations was my favorite part. I got to yearn with them for a bit. Yes please, more of that. What romcom is complete without a cast of wacky side characters? They are here and sweet, and thankfully don’t overtake the relationship between Alix and Grace on bloom. I thought I smelled the whiff of a 3rd act breakup but it was a feint (tricked me good too)! As they say, my grinch heart grew 3 sizes that day. I would read a mashup with these two authors again.
December 13, 2025
Not sure I would’ve been able to handle this book when I was still long distance, but since I’m spending Christmas with my wife 5 OUT OF 5 SNOWFLAKES true love is REAL the christmas spirit is ALIVE god bless us EVERY ONE 🎄
December 8, 2025
JJ Arias and Bryce Oakley?!! Sign me up. Happy to report this book was a hit! The characters are so tender and the banter was on fire. So many clever lines that made me laugh and think. I also loved the side characters, especially Phyllis. The steamy scenes were steaming, but I didn’t feel they always matched the characters’ personalities. Still, it was a fun premise, and they totally pulled it off! I hope they’ll write more together.
Short summary: Grace is in dire straits after a breakup she can’t discuss so she signs up for breakup buddies, thinking an anonymous pen pal might solve her woes. What she gets in Alix is so much more, but they live 3,000 miles away….
Short summary: Grace is in dire straits after a breakup she can’t discuss so she signs up for breakup buddies, thinking an anonymous pen pal might solve her woes. What she gets in Alix is so much more, but they live 3,000 miles away….
December 30, 2025
cozy no debería significar aburrido y no nomás por ser un romance lésbico es un buen romance, ya basta de aceptar miserias!
no me atrapó en ningún momento, no me interesaba naaada de lo que estaba pasando, los personajes tienen sueños y aspiraciones, pero todo se queda bien superficial, no se explora mucho sobre los personajes realmente
seguí leyéndolo porque quería una lectura navideña, ambientada en los holidays; fue lo único que me hizo pasar de página
había momentos chistosos, tiernos y que sí me hicieron sentir maripositas en el estómago, sin embargo, es un libro muy mediocre oop-
le doy 2 estrellas solo porque no es lo peor que he leído
no me atrapó en ningún momento, no me interesaba naaada de lo que estaba pasando, los personajes tienen sueños y aspiraciones, pero todo se queda bien superficial, no se explora mucho sobre los personajes realmente
seguí leyéndolo porque quería una lectura navideña, ambientada en los holidays; fue lo único que me hizo pasar de página
había momentos chistosos, tiernos y que sí me hicieron sentir maripositas en el estómago, sin embargo, es un libro muy mediocre oop-
le doy 2 estrellas solo porque no es lo peor que he leído
December 17, 2025
ABSOLUTE MASTERPIECE!
This book was absolutely amazing!!! I have loved all the JJ Arias and Bryce Oakley books I’ve read in the past but this has soared to my top 5 of all time favorite books!! I highly highly recommend! It’s cute, funny, there’s yearning, and omg the spice?! Absolutely on fire along with the chemistry of Grace and Alix🥵🥵🥵 you won’t be disappointed!
This book was absolutely amazing!!! I have loved all the JJ Arias and Bryce Oakley books I’ve read in the past but this has soared to my top 5 of all time favorite books!! I highly highly recommend! It’s cute, funny, there’s yearning, and omg the spice?! Absolutely on fire along with the chemistry of Grace and Alix🥵🥵🥵 you won’t be disappointed!
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