What do you think?
In What World
Two high school rivals begrudgingly reunite as adults to investigate the disappearance of their beloved former teacher, only to wind up traveling through a series of alternate realities together.
Total opposites, Marlowe Jenkins and Priscilla Covington-French hated each other in high school. Now in their thirties, Marlowe is barely scraping by while Priscilla is wildly successful. Their rivalry should be long dead, yet both women remain connected through their mutual mentor, drama teacher Dallas Winthrop. Their unending tension has nothing to do with the fact that they’ve kissed. More than once.
When Dallas goes missing, each woman believes she can figure out where he is. Except this is no ordinary disappearance. Dallas has found a way to explore alternate versions of reality. While trying to follow him, Marlowe and Priscilla find other versions of themselves instead, surprised to learn not all Marlowes and Priscillas are fueled by hate. In fact, some Marlowes and Priscillas have very different strong feelings for one another. . .
The more Marlowe and Priscilla are forced to rely on each other, the harder it becomes to ignore their simmering attraction. But with every alternate reality they search, they only get further from their real life and responsibilities. Do they play it safe and hide behind their rivalry, or take a chance on each other that could permanently change the world as they know it?
Total opposites, Marlowe Jenkins and Priscilla Covington-French hated each other in high school. Now in their thirties, Marlowe is barely scraping by while Priscilla is wildly successful. Their rivalry should be long dead, yet both women remain connected through their mutual mentor, drama teacher Dallas Winthrop. Their unending tension has nothing to do with the fact that they’ve kissed. More than once.
When Dallas goes missing, each woman believes she can figure out where he is. Except this is no ordinary disappearance. Dallas has found a way to explore alternate versions of reality. While trying to follow him, Marlowe and Priscilla find other versions of themselves instead, surprised to learn not all Marlowes and Priscillas are fueled by hate. In fact, some Marlowes and Priscillas have very different strong feelings for one another. . .
The more Marlowe and Priscilla are forced to rely on each other, the harder it becomes to ignore their simmering attraction. But with every alternate reality they search, they only get further from their real life and responsibilities. Do they play it safe and hide behind their rivalry, or take a chance on each other that could permanently change the world as they know it?
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First published August 11, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 253 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
✨🌌 In What World by Bridget Morrissey 🌌✨
💫Happy Release Day! 💫
This was a really cute sapphic romance with a magical twist and I honestly just had a really good time with it.
I liked how it handled the dual timelines and the alternate realities. It could have gotten confusing fast, but it didn’t. Everything felt pretty easy to follow.
I also ended up really liking the side characters. They added to the story without feeling like filler.
And while portions of the ending were sad, I still loved it all. Especially the epilogue!!
💫 What to Expect
• Sapphic romance
• Alternate realities
• Relunctant partnership
• Missing mentor
• Second chance
• Forced proximity
_ _ _
📅 Pub Date: August 11, 2026
📝 Thank you to Berkley Publishing Group and NetGalley for the advanced copy. All thoughts are my own.
💫Happy Release Day! 💫
This was a really cute sapphic romance with a magical twist and I honestly just had a really good time with it.
I liked how it handled the dual timelines and the alternate realities. It could have gotten confusing fast, but it didn’t. Everything felt pretty easy to follow.
I also ended up really liking the side characters. They added to the story without feeling like filler.
And while portions of the ending were sad, I still loved it all. Especially the epilogue!!
💫 What to Expect
• Sapphic romance
• Alternate realities
• Relunctant partnership
• Missing mentor
• Second chance
• Forced proximity
_ _ _
📅 Pub Date: August 11, 2026
📝 Thank you to Berkley Publishing Group and NetGalley for the advanced copy. All thoughts are my own.
March 12, 2026
This was SUCH a cool concept for a book. Going through multiple universes to find their beloved theater teacher? And seeing different versions of themself? What an amazing way to show the two MCs they could be whoever they want to be.
At first I thought there was no way Priscilla and Marlowe could ever be together, the hatred was just so extreme! Everything came together SO well.
There could’ve been a bit more added to the build up of them being together, but either way I couldn’t put this book down for the life of me. There was so many other details we get that made it all so worth it.
It wasn’t just a romance story, it was about finding yourself and pushing yourself to do the scary things. It was also about letting go and admitting to yourself and others.
This book had me giggling, my heart hurting, and my thoughts turning. I enjoyed watching the two MCs grow closer and really hear one another. This was all pulled together so well, wow.
Thank you NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for the ARC!
At first I thought there was no way Priscilla and Marlowe could ever be together, the hatred was just so extreme! Everything came together SO well.
There could’ve been a bit more added to the build up of them being together, but either way I couldn’t put this book down for the life of me. There was so many other details we get that made it all so worth it.
It wasn’t just a romance story, it was about finding yourself and pushing yourself to do the scary things. It was also about letting go and admitting to yourself and others.
This book had me giggling, my heart hurting, and my thoughts turning. I enjoyed watching the two MCs grow closer and really hear one another. This was all pulled together so well, wow.
Thank you NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for the ARC!
August 14, 2026
what a fun concept! as soon as i heard sapphic multiverse i came sprinting (particularly after enjoying COSMIC LOVE AT THE MULTIVERSE HAIR SALON last year!!) these two rivals took us through multiple versions of themselves and how they’d always end up together presently- with a little push.
the entire dallas plot line i will say felt like it could’ve been more fleshed out seeing as its the catalyst for every decision these characters make, giving the story a cheap-esque feeling (if i were to nitpick). although marlowe and priscilla had history i would’ve loved for them to fall for each other more in the present and be less reliant on their relationship decades prior. overall this was a fun sapphic read i flew through and would recommend!
the entire dallas plot line i will say felt like it could’ve been more fleshed out seeing as its the catalyst for every decision these characters make, giving the story a cheap-esque feeling (if i were to nitpick). although marlowe and priscilla had history i would’ve loved for them to fall for each other more in the present and be less reliant on their relationship decades prior. overall this was a fun sapphic read i flew through and would recommend!
September 5, 2026
I liked this book.
I’m going to give that thought the space it needs, mostly as a reminder to me that I indeed enjoyed reading this book, even though the execution of the plot was all over the map.
The premise is awesome. Two high school rivals who, sixteen years later, travel through parallel universes together which finally forces them to take a good look at their feelings for each other; what their feelings and actions in high school really were; and through their adventures in the multiverse, what their feelings for each other are now.
What made this book hard to completely enjoy, however, was at various points of the story I rather hated one of the FMCs, Marlow. But in the next chapter, I’d rather hate the other FMC, Priscilla. By the end, I was happy they HEAd, but I can’t say I was rooting for them from the start, which if you know me, is not a win in my book.
Plus there was a secondary character, Dallas, that played significantly in the plot, and I at no moment was sympathetic to his plight which drives the story. I understood his importance to Marlowe and Priscilla, but his actions were rather selfish. Morrisey then ties up his storyline with a bow at the end, which feels disingenuous, and dismisses basically everything M and P did to help him. He was basically a plot device and nothing more.
But I liked the book.
I’m going to give that thought the space it needs, mostly as a reminder to me that I indeed enjoyed reading this book, even though the execution of the plot was all over the map.
The premise is awesome. Two high school rivals who, sixteen years later, travel through parallel universes together which finally forces them to take a good look at their feelings for each other; what their feelings and actions in high school really were; and through their adventures in the multiverse, what their feelings for each other are now.
What made this book hard to completely enjoy, however, was at various points of the story I rather hated one of the FMCs, Marlow. But in the next chapter, I’d rather hate the other FMC, Priscilla. By the end, I was happy they HEAd, but I can’t say I was rooting for them from the start, which if you know me, is not a win in my book.
Plus there was a secondary character, Dallas, that played significantly in the plot, and I at no moment was sympathetic to his plight which drives the story. I understood his importance to Marlowe and Priscilla, but his actions were rather selfish. Morrisey then ties up his storyline with a bow at the end, which feels disingenuous, and dismisses basically everything M and P did to help him. He was basically a plot device and nothing more.
But I liked the book.
August 11, 2026
✨ Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley for the ARC of In What World!✨
There was a lot to love in Morrissey’s sapphic, love-to-hate-you time travel romance. Crafted as a “what if you have to team up with your high school rival who you secretly had a giant crush on to save the world” type novel, Marlowe & Priscilla find themselves suddenly stuck in each other’s orbit after 15 years of absolutely, definitely not thinking about the other one. When their mutual mentor suddenly goes missing, this pair of ex-theater kids must team up to find the answers they need to bring him home and save the spring musical.
Tropes:
🎭 Dual POV
🎭 Enemies/rivals to lovers
🎭 Magical realism
🎭 Love to hate you
🎭 Forced proximity
What worked particularly well:
🎭 Morrissey writes compelling and enjoyable banter. The characters feel grounded and genuine with a focus on how insecurities can skew your perceived reality. This allowed for some nice character development across the book as both of our FMC’s struggle with how they have interpreted their past interactions and how it’s driven their current relationship. The book has a lot of heart, and if you jive with realistic, messy women just trying to figure things out, you’ll have a good time with this one.
🎭 If you were ever involved in theater, you will find yourself chuckling at some of the plot points and interactions throughout this novel. The intensity, the cast parties, the insecurity masquerading as overconfidence, camaraderie turned rivalry turned camaraderie again - it all feels very genuine and authentic and fun. The references are sprinkled throughout and even if you’re not interested in theater, you’ll have a great time reading this.
🎭 I really enjoy romances with a sci-fi or magical bent and this one worked particularly well for me. The alternate universes weren’t too overblown and helped to keep the story moving in a satisfying direction!
🎭 Some extra props to Morrissey for including some trans representation - even though it’s in the form of a character who we don’t interact with much over the course of the book, this was a thoughtful inclusion that deepened the story overall.
What I didn’t jive with:
🎭 Writing dual POV is always a challenge, and I’ll note that particularly in the first half of this book, the voices were both written remarkably similarly. There were moments where I had to go back to the beginning of the chapter to check whose POV we were in! As the book proceeded this wasn’t as big of an issue as their distinct personalities emerged.
🎭I wish the one spicy scene that we got had happened in a different context - it felt awkward and misplaced in many ways and I was left feeling like “wait, really?”
Overall, In What World was a delightful and easy reading WLW romance. If you enjoy Ashley Poston’s take on magical realism and romance, but want a queer version, this is a great option!
There was a lot to love in Morrissey’s sapphic, love-to-hate-you time travel romance. Crafted as a “what if you have to team up with your high school rival who you secretly had a giant crush on to save the world” type novel, Marlowe & Priscilla find themselves suddenly stuck in each other’s orbit after 15 years of absolutely, definitely not thinking about the other one. When their mutual mentor suddenly goes missing, this pair of ex-theater kids must team up to find the answers they need to bring him home and save the spring musical.
Tropes:
🎭 Dual POV
🎭 Enemies/rivals to lovers
🎭 Magical realism
🎭 Love to hate you
🎭 Forced proximity
What worked particularly well:
🎭 Morrissey writes compelling and enjoyable banter. The characters feel grounded and genuine with a focus on how insecurities can skew your perceived reality. This allowed for some nice character development across the book as both of our FMC’s struggle with how they have interpreted their past interactions and how it’s driven their current relationship. The book has a lot of heart, and if you jive with realistic, messy women just trying to figure things out, you’ll have a good time with this one.
🎭 If you were ever involved in theater, you will find yourself chuckling at some of the plot points and interactions throughout this novel. The intensity, the cast parties, the insecurity masquerading as overconfidence, camaraderie turned rivalry turned camaraderie again - it all feels very genuine and authentic and fun. The references are sprinkled throughout and even if you’re not interested in theater, you’ll have a great time reading this.
🎭 I really enjoy romances with a sci-fi or magical bent and this one worked particularly well for me. The alternate universes weren’t too overblown and helped to keep the story moving in a satisfying direction!
🎭 Some extra props to Morrissey for including some trans representation - even though it’s in the form of a character who we don’t interact with much over the course of the book, this was a thoughtful inclusion that deepened the story overall.
What I didn’t jive with:
🎭 Writing dual POV is always a challenge, and I’ll note that particularly in the first half of this book, the voices were both written remarkably similarly. There were moments where I had to go back to the beginning of the chapter to check whose POV we were in! As the book proceeded this wasn’t as big of an issue as their distinct personalities emerged.
🎭I wish the one spicy scene that we got had happened in a different context - it felt awkward and misplaced in many ways and I was left feeling like “wait, really?”
Overall, In What World was a delightful and easy reading WLW romance. If you enjoy Ashley Poston’s take on magical realism and romance, but want a queer version, this is a great option!
Did Not Finish
March 13, 2026Sadly DNF'd at about 30%. I was genuinely excited about the alternate realities idea, since it felt so fresh, and I was ready for some delicious enemies-to-lovers tension. But I never connected with the characters or the story. The back-and-forth between the MCs came off more childish and passive-aggressive than anything mature or charged, which surprised me given their ages. No chemistry, no spark. That said, the foundation is solid, and I can see why others would love it. Just wasn't the right read for me this time. Huge thank you to Berkley Publishing for the eARC opportunity anyway!
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September 14, 2026
Ever wondered what your life would be like if you'd made different choices down the way?
When Marlowe's mentor and co-director of the drama club goes missing right before his final play before retirement, she goes looking for him—accompanied by a blast from the past: her high school rival and now semi-famous actress, Priscilla. Turns out, Marlowe's mentor has built a time-and-multiverse traveling machine, and now she and Priscilla are on a mind-bending journey to find him, rescue themselves, and maybe, figure out where it all went wrong.
This is a 3.5 stars, rounded up for me.
I enjoyed it.
It did feel a little repetitive in places, as a lot of alternate reality/time-traveling books can be.
Overall, it was fun, I had a good time, and there were a lot of thoughts on what success actually looks like, and what it means to be happy—and to give yourself permission to be happy.
When Marlowe's mentor and co-director of the drama club goes missing right before his final play before retirement, she goes looking for him—accompanied by a blast from the past: her high school rival and now semi-famous actress, Priscilla. Turns out, Marlowe's mentor has built a time-and-multiverse traveling machine, and now she and Priscilla are on a mind-bending journey to find him, rescue themselves, and maybe, figure out where it all went wrong.
This is a 3.5 stars, rounded up for me.
I enjoyed it.
It did feel a little repetitive in places, as a lot of alternate reality/time-traveling books can be.
Overall, it was fun, I had a good time, and there were a lot of thoughts on what success actually looks like, and what it means to be happy—and to give yourself permission to be happy.
September 14, 2026
This was such a cute sapphic story full of magical realism! I loved how the dual timelines were done! There was a lot going on but I thought it was handled really well!
I thought the banter was fantastic and I loved the rivals to lovers aspect. There’s definitely a lot going on but it’s a great time!!
I highly recommend this if you’re looking for a fun and sweet read for Sapphic September!
Read if you like:
Magical realism
Sapphic romance
Second chance
Forced proximity
Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!!
I thought the banter was fantastic and I loved the rivals to lovers aspect. There’s definitely a lot going on but it’s a great time!!
I highly recommend this if you’re looking for a fun and sweet read for Sapphic September!
Read if you like:
Magical realism
Sapphic romance
Second chance
Forced proximity
Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!!
June 21, 2026
i would’ve read this in one sitting if i hadn’t started it at 9pm oh my god. bridget morrissey has really cemented herself as one of my fave queer romance authors with this one. i’m obsessed.
thank you berkley and edelweiss for the arc <3
thank you berkley and edelweiss for the arc <3
August 13, 2026
Hate to be such a blatant fan of an author but so far Bridget Morrissey is 4/4 on books I've enjoyed and I believe that justifies it.
As is expected, 'In What World' was far from a typical romance book. The magical realism/sci-fi aspect added so much more depth especially with how the message was about finding yourself across universes and time. I really enjoyed it.
I do wish we'd gotten at least a bit more in the way of relationship development as we did with the characters individually, and especially since the author decided to end it off with a marriage proposal that I wasn't fond of, but it was still a solid read.
Thank you Berkeley Publishing for the arc in exchange for an honest review.
As is expected, 'In What World' was far from a typical romance book. The magical realism/sci-fi aspect added so much more depth especially with how the message was about finding yourself across universes and time. I really enjoyed it.
I do wish we'd gotten at least a bit more in the way of relationship development as we did with the characters individually, and especially since the author decided to end it off with a marriage proposal that I wasn't fond of, but it was still a solid read.
Thank you Berkeley Publishing for the arc in exchange for an honest review.
September 1, 2026
This was just so utterly wonderful, it felt like it was distilled in a lab for me. I adore a speculative or magical realism element in my romances and the alternate universe hopping was great. It provided fun scenarios for our leads to tackle while also allowing for moments of personal growth and reflection. Marlowe and Priscilla’s relationship has a great arc of former school rivals to begrudging allies and finally lovers. The way that they could spur each other to be their best made it clear why they were meant to be. I’m also a huge sucker for a beloved mentor in a book and I could immediately feel why these girls would move heaven and earth to find Dallas. Finally it’s very refreshing as a former theatre professional to read a book that actually gets it right. No shade to new theatre fans, but when I read a book that incorporates the art form without much of an understanding I can tell (I’m looking at you Kate Golden Hozier knockoff book).
If you’re looking for a Sapphic romance with magic, insufferable theatre kids, and a lot of heart then this is the book for you. I would compare this book to One Last Stop by Casey McQuiston, I Kissed Shara Wheeler by Casey McQuiston, and Here We Go Again by Alison Cochrun.
If you’re looking for a Sapphic romance with magic, insufferable theatre kids, and a lot of heart then this is the book for you. I would compare this book to One Last Stop by Casey McQuiston, I Kissed Shara Wheeler by Casey McQuiston, and Here We Go Again by Alison Cochrun.
Read
September 3, 2026When I say this reads like fanfic I mean it as a compliment: high concept romance! The multiverse! It was such a fun premise and really well executed over all, though it did drag a bit in the middle and I thought the second epilogue was a bit unnecessary. Overall I really like this author and look forward to her next book!
September 17, 2026
| rating: 3.5 ⭐️
former high school theater rivals reunite to look for their missing theater director only to travel through multiple alternative realities and are forced to confront hard truths about themselves. needless to say, i was intrigued by and ultimately delighted with this book. marlowe and priscilla are two different kinds of gifted burnouts that i unfortunately really resonated with. i think their high school misunderstandings was typical teenager stuff and i liked how they healed from their pasts. dallas and teddy’s story broke my heart and im so glad that he decided to return in the end.
Started: September 10, 2026
Finished: September 17, 2026
former high school theater rivals reunite to look for their missing theater director only to travel through multiple alternative realities and are forced to confront hard truths about themselves. needless to say, i was intrigued by and ultimately delighted with this book. marlowe and priscilla are two different kinds of gifted burnouts that i unfortunately really resonated with. i think their high school misunderstandings was typical teenager stuff and i liked how they healed from their pasts. dallas and teddy’s story broke my heart and im so glad that he decided to return in the end.
Started: September 10, 2026
Finished: September 17, 2026
August 13, 2026
Of all the books I've read by BM thus far, this one is my favorite.
The concept of this book was really interesting and I thought it was executed well.
This is much more than a romance novel. It was about finding oneself and giving yourself permission to dream about what you want in your life as well.
The ending was wonderful.
The concept of this book was really interesting and I thought it was executed well.
This is much more than a romance novel. It was about finding oneself and giving yourself permission to dream about what you want in your life as well.
The ending was wonderful.
August 6, 2026
I received an ARC of In What World from Berkley Romance, and wow, this book had me feeling everything. It completely transported me back to high school theater in the best way. Priscilla and Marlowe were once rivals in their high school drama department, and years later they're thrown back together when their wonderfully eccentric former director, Dallas, disappears into a time machine he actually built. What follows is a hilarious, heartfelt, and surprisingly emotional adventure through space and time. Beneath all the chaos is such a beautiful romance, and I found myself constantly swooning over Priscilla and Marlowe while cheering them on every step of the way. I cried more than once, laughed a ton, and by the end I was completely in love with this story. If you love second chances, theater kids, time travel, and romances with a whole lot of heart, don't miss this one.
Want to Read
February 20, 2025I will read everything Bridget Morrissey writes from now until the end of time basically.
August 21, 2026
From the beginning, I was immediately drawn in. Marlowe and Priscilla are very distinct characters. The setting is mostly at the high school, and I related to Marlowe as a teacher. Her love for the students from the get-go was so sweet!
I’ve gotten into the habit of not reading blurbs too closely (I find so many of them give too much away!), so I somehow missed that this is speculative fiction?? When they started implementing the “Magic Machine,” I was like, wait??? This isn’t just about them working together to put on the play?? Needless to say, I was really mad when I had to go to bed at this point in the book. It was giving Doctor Who in the best way possible (can you tell I’m in the middle of a Doctor Who rewatch??).
The alternate realities were such a fun way to explore their relationships. Marlowe and Priscilla can see different versions of their lives, helping them understand each other better. They also interacted with the other versions of themselves, which I thought was a fun concept.
I was kicking my feet (and cried at one point) at so many scenes, and I loved the build-up to when they finally admitted something was happening between them.
While the romance is front and center, the story also explores bigger themes that just hit the feels, like how the choices we make affect our lives and how much we can change who we become. I really loved the underlying message about how easy it is to get stuck in a version of yourself. Sometimes taking a different path means admitting that the life you’ve built isn’t necessarily the life you actually want.
There was one quote that stuck with me: “Art is how we survive…There are days when you don’t like it. Days when you’re convinced you should quit. Everything in life feels that way at some point, and at least with this, you get the satisfaction of knowing you’ve brought meaning to the human experience.”
I think that can relate to any scenario where it feels like you’re fighting an uphill battle, but the idea that what we do can impact someone else is powerful. Like I said, there was so much in this book that spoke to me.
I also really appreciated how much this book felt like a love letter to theater kids. As a former theater nerd myself, I found that the theater setting gave the story so much personality. Dallas, their former drama teacher, was an important part of the emotional heart of the story (his disappearance is what initially brings Marlowe and Priscilla back together), and his role in both of their lives was so impactful. It made my little teacher heart so happy!
I always say that a five-star read is completely based on vibes for me. While a well-written, fun, or interesting story is four stars, if I connect with it or feel it impacted me in some way, it’s an automatic five-star read for me. There was just something about this book that made me feel all the feels while also swooning at the romance.
Just like with the first book I read by her, I really jived with her writing style and the way she builds tension between her characters. Bridget Morrissey is well on her way to becoming a must-read author for me. I am excited to look more into her backlist!
I’ve gotten into the habit of not reading blurbs too closely (I find so many of them give too much away!), so I somehow missed that this is speculative fiction?? When they started implementing the “Magic Machine,” I was like, wait??? This isn’t just about them working together to put on the play?? Needless to say, I was really mad when I had to go to bed at this point in the book. It was giving Doctor Who in the best way possible (can you tell I’m in the middle of a Doctor Who rewatch??).
The alternate realities were such a fun way to explore their relationships. Marlowe and Priscilla can see different versions of their lives, helping them understand each other better. They also interacted with the other versions of themselves, which I thought was a fun concept.
I was kicking my feet (and cried at one point) at so many scenes, and I loved the build-up to when they finally admitted something was happening between them.
While the romance is front and center, the story also explores bigger themes that just hit the feels, like how the choices we make affect our lives and how much we can change who we become. I really loved the underlying message about how easy it is to get stuck in a version of yourself. Sometimes taking a different path means admitting that the life you’ve built isn’t necessarily the life you actually want.
There was one quote that stuck with me: “Art is how we survive…There are days when you don’t like it. Days when you’re convinced you should quit. Everything in life feels that way at some point, and at least with this, you get the satisfaction of knowing you’ve brought meaning to the human experience.”
I think that can relate to any scenario where it feels like you’re fighting an uphill battle, but the idea that what we do can impact someone else is powerful. Like I said, there was so much in this book that spoke to me.
I also really appreciated how much this book felt like a love letter to theater kids. As a former theater nerd myself, I found that the theater setting gave the story so much personality. Dallas, their former drama teacher, was an important part of the emotional heart of the story (his disappearance is what initially brings Marlowe and Priscilla back together), and his role in both of their lives was so impactful. It made my little teacher heart so happy!
I always say that a five-star read is completely based on vibes for me. While a well-written, fun, or interesting story is four stars, if I connect with it or feel it impacted me in some way, it’s an automatic five-star read for me. There was just something about this book that made me feel all the feels while also swooning at the romance.
Just like with the first book I read by her, I really jived with her writing style and the way she builds tension between her characters. Bridget Morrissey is well on her way to becoming a must-read author for me. I am excited to look more into her backlist!
August 22, 2026
I think definitely my favorite thing about this book was the concept. Two high school rivals who fall in love later in life as they're chasing their drama teacher through alternate universe? Hell yeah.
Unfortunately though the execution didn't work quite as well for me. It felt a little over reliant on their past selves and so it was hard to totally get behind them falling in love in the present day.
Also the universe hopping was a little bit confusing as well at times, like with how it was supposed to work and making sure that they didn't mess things up. That almost didn't really seem like a concern even though I felt like it should have been.
Overall though, I still found this book to be pretty cute and fun, even though I don't think it's going to be quite a new favorite for me. But I do recommend it if you're looking for a good and unique concept.
Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley for the ARC to honestly review!
Unfortunately though the execution didn't work quite as well for me. It felt a little over reliant on their past selves and so it was hard to totally get behind them falling in love in the present day.
Also the universe hopping was a little bit confusing as well at times, like with how it was supposed to work and making sure that they didn't mess things up. That almost didn't really seem like a concern even though I felt like it should have been.
Overall though, I still found this book to be pretty cute and fun, even though I don't think it's going to be quite a new favorite for me. But I do recommend it if you're looking for a good and unique concept.
Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley for the ARC to honestly review!
August 25, 2026
WOW okay, first off, thank you so much to NetGalley and Berkley for the ARC of In What World!!! I’ve read the author’s previous work and absolutely loved them, so when I saw this one, I immediately ran to request it and it did NOT disappoint!
I will say, this was completely different from what I was expecting… like, was I expecting TIME TRAVEL?! Absolutely not! 😂 But honestly, it was so much fun and made for such an entertaining story. I was definitely along for the ride!
My one wish is that the romance had been fleshed out a little more. I would have loved more time to see that relationship develop and really connect with the romance. That said, the overall story was incredibly entertaining, and I had such a fun time reading it! Definitely a unique read that caught me completely off guard in the best way!
I will say, this was completely different from what I was expecting… like, was I expecting TIME TRAVEL?! Absolutely not! 😂 But honestly, it was so much fun and made for such an entertaining story. I was definitely along for the ride!
My one wish is that the romance had been fleshed out a little more. I would have loved more time to see that relationship develop and really connect with the romance. That said, the overall story was incredibly entertaining, and I had such a fun time reading it! Definitely a unique read that caught me completely off guard in the best way!
August 28, 2026
(rounded up from 3.75)
I have high standards for books about time travel/alternate realities, so this started off a bit shallow for me, but it got more engaging once we started to delve into the juicier character conflicts. A decently quick read, but the alternate realities could have been more interesting, I feel, so not rated as highly as I expected.
I have high standards for books about time travel/alternate realities, so this started off a bit shallow for me, but it got more engaging once we started to delve into the juicier character conflicts. A decently quick read, but the alternate realities could have been more interesting, I feel, so not rated as highly as I expected.
September 2, 2026
This had me in the beginning but there really isn’t much substance to the story and I didn’t believe in the romance since so much of it hinged on all the alternates of each other they see and on their past connection. I didn’t feel anything until around the 82% mark when a minor character speaks of loss and grief.
June 13, 2026
This book has everything I love in it. Sapphic enemies to lovers, one bed, and ALL the theater references. I couldn’t put it down. Grab your copy of In What World wherever you get your books this August!
August 21, 2026
a sapphic romance in which they traverse the mulitiverse?!?!! say less!! meeting yourself in alternate realities/universes/timelines is such a cool concept that i cant get enough of.
this one is definitely for the queer theatre kids, so i had so much fun reading this and i'm excited to read more from Bridget Morrissey
thanks so much to berkley for this eARC!
this one is definitely for the queer theatre kids, so i had so much fun reading this and i'm excited to read more from Bridget Morrissey
thanks so much to berkley for this eARC!
August 29, 2026
This story follows Marlowe, a teacher about to take over the drama program from her beloved mentor Dallas, who is about to retire, and Priscilla, a successful actress who seems to be succeeding in all the areas Marlowe hasn’t been able to. They both went to high school together and their rivalry was epic. However, they come back together 16 years later when Dallas goes missing and only they can follow him through the Memory Machine into alternate realities.
This epic love story takes place on a grand adventure through alternate realities that seems to finally push these two clearly in love idiots to actually acknowledge what they mean to each other and overcome the memory of their pasts to see a future in their own reality. This was funny, lighthearted, and filled with fantastic banter and quips from both sides, so I truly enjoyed the romance and yearning. The narration for this audiobook was fantastic!
This epic love story takes place on a grand adventure through alternate realities that seems to finally push these two clearly in love idiots to actually acknowledge what they mean to each other and overcome the memory of their pasts to see a future in their own reality. This was funny, lighthearted, and filled with fantastic banter and quips from both sides, so I truly enjoyed the romance and yearning. The narration for this audiobook was fantastic!
September 5, 2026
amazing, amazing book. sapphics and the multiverse? two of my favorite things combined. priscilla’s character hit a little bit too close to home. it’s been a while since a book kept me up reading (this is a 2am review if you haven’t noticed).
August 31, 2026
Across every possible universe, I would choose this book!
How many versions of your life would you have to see before realizing which one you actually want? In What World is a clever, heartfelt, and wonderfully weird exploration of the lives we could have lived, the people we could have become, and the choices that ultimately make us who we are. I adored watching Marlowe and Priscilla stumble through different versions of their lives while slowly discovering what (and who) they want in this one. Equal parts hilarious, romantic, and moving, this book made me feel everything.
How many versions of your life would you have to see before realizing which one you actually want? In What World is a clever, heartfelt, and wonderfully weird exploration of the lives we could have lived, the people we could have become, and the choices that ultimately make us who we are. I adored watching Marlowe and Priscilla stumble through different versions of their lives while slowly discovering what (and who) they want in this one. Equal parts hilarious, romantic, and moving, this book made me feel everything.
August 1, 2026
I’ve been a fan of Bridget Morrissey for a while but this book was made for me, fully made for me. In What World is the perfect book for a sapphic Doctor Who fan. I couldn’t put the book down for a second.
A road trip across time and space looking for your missing teacher and mentor, stuck with your sworn enemy since high school. The constant tension, the perpetual foot in mouth retorts, confessions taken as jokes and full on life switching in another universe was so entertaining. I loved that they just reached a moment in which they couldn’t stay away anymore, a bit forced by their psychic, married alternate selves but still. I knew their “hate” was just really aggressive yearning. I’m sad that there was so much time wasted because of things left unsaid in an angsty teenage argument.
I was really glad that we could learn about Dallas’ story and why he had built and wanted to use the Memory Machine. Truly heartbreaking, I really wish he could have succeeded.
This book made me feel just about everything, one of my favorite reads of the summer.
Thank you to Bridget Morrissey, Berkley Publishing Group and NetGalley.
A road trip across time and space looking for your missing teacher and mentor, stuck with your sworn enemy since high school. The constant tension, the perpetual foot in mouth retorts, confessions taken as jokes and full on life switching in another universe was so entertaining. I loved that they just reached a moment in which they couldn’t stay away anymore, a bit forced by their psychic, married alternate selves but still. I knew their “hate” was just really aggressive yearning. I’m sad that there was so much time wasted because of things left unsaid in an angsty teenage argument.
I was really glad that we could learn about Dallas’ story and why he had built and wanted to use the Memory Machine. Truly heartbreaking, I really wish he could have succeeded.
This book made me feel just about everything, one of my favorite reads of the summer.
Thank you to Bridget Morrissey, Berkley Publishing Group and NetGalley.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 15, 2026
GIVE ME MORE SEXUAL TENSION
August 7, 2026
a love story that reenacts the Spider-Man pointing meme at every turn <3
thanks so much to berkley romance for the free book!
as always, bridget morrissey absolutely killed it. the rivals truly, TRULY hated each other & it was an absolute treat to read about them slowly getting over their childish jealousy.
thanks so much to berkley romance for the free book!
as always, bridget morrissey absolutely killed it. the rivals truly, TRULY hated each other & it was an absolute treat to read about them slowly getting over their childish jealousy.
September 3, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
What if every version of you knew you were down bad except the one currently running your life?
Asking for Marlowe and Priscilla.
In What World was my first Bridget Morrissey book, and apparently I chose to start with sapphic rivals, theater-kid baggage, alternate realities, and enough existential “what if?” energy to personally attack every questionable life decision I’ve ever made.
Excellent.
Marlowe and Priscilla’s dynamic had me immediately. They have that very specific kind of rivalry where both women are deeply committed to being professionally annoying to each other while absolutely refusing to examine why they care THIS MUCH.
The banter? Elite.
The sapphic rivals-to-lovers nonsense? Exactly what I ordered.
The communication skills?
Ladies. You are adults. I am begging.
But as much as I loved the two of them together, the alternate realities were what pushed this into five-star territory for me.
Getting to see different versions of these characters—and different versions of the lives they could have lived—was SO much fun, but it also gave the story way more emotional weight than I expected. Every new reality becomes another little question about the choices we make, the paths we don’t take, and whether a different life would actually mean a better one.
Which is rude, frankly. I was here for sapphic chaos.
Instead I received feelings.
I especially loved how the story plays with regret and changing dreams. There’s something painfully comforting about the idea that choosing a different path doesn’t automatically mean you chose wrong—and that realizing you want something different now doesn’t mean you failed the person you used to be.
Apparently the multiverse exists specifically to cause emotional damage.
Marlowe was my girl. She’s messy, insecure, and capable of getting very stuck inside her own head, which made her feel incredibly human. And Priscilla’s confidence makes such a good contrast, especially once you start seeing what actually exists underneath that polished exterior.
I’m not even a theater person, and somehow the theater-kid energy still completely worked on me. The history, dramatics, old rivalries, and general sense that everyone involved has been emotionally rehearsing the same argument for years just fit this story perfectly.
And while I loved the romance, I think what I loved even more was how the multiverse allowed Marlowe and Priscilla to see each other—and themselves—from completely different angles.
Because apparently sometimes the real horror of meeting your alternate selves is realizing they figured out your feelings before you did.
Could these women have saved themselves considerable trouble by communicating?
Absolutely.
Would that have deprived me of sapphic rivals traveling through alternate realities while slowly confronting years of unresolved feelings?
Also absolutely.
So I’ll allow it. 🎭✨
Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for gifting this ARC. These are my 100% own honest thoughts!
What if every version of you knew you were down bad except the one currently running your life?
Asking for Marlowe and Priscilla.
In What World was my first Bridget Morrissey book, and apparently I chose to start with sapphic rivals, theater-kid baggage, alternate realities, and enough existential “what if?” energy to personally attack every questionable life decision I’ve ever made.
Excellent.
Marlowe and Priscilla’s dynamic had me immediately. They have that very specific kind of rivalry where both women are deeply committed to being professionally annoying to each other while absolutely refusing to examine why they care THIS MUCH.
The banter? Elite.
The sapphic rivals-to-lovers nonsense? Exactly what I ordered.
The communication skills?
Ladies. You are adults. I am begging.
But as much as I loved the two of them together, the alternate realities were what pushed this into five-star territory for me.
Getting to see different versions of these characters—and different versions of the lives they could have lived—was SO much fun, but it also gave the story way more emotional weight than I expected. Every new reality becomes another little question about the choices we make, the paths we don’t take, and whether a different life would actually mean a better one.
Which is rude, frankly. I was here for sapphic chaos.
Instead I received feelings.
I especially loved how the story plays with regret and changing dreams. There’s something painfully comforting about the idea that choosing a different path doesn’t automatically mean you chose wrong—and that realizing you want something different now doesn’t mean you failed the person you used to be.
Apparently the multiverse exists specifically to cause emotional damage.
Marlowe was my girl. She’s messy, insecure, and capable of getting very stuck inside her own head, which made her feel incredibly human. And Priscilla’s confidence makes such a good contrast, especially once you start seeing what actually exists underneath that polished exterior.
I’m not even a theater person, and somehow the theater-kid energy still completely worked on me. The history, dramatics, old rivalries, and general sense that everyone involved has been emotionally rehearsing the same argument for years just fit this story perfectly.
And while I loved the romance, I think what I loved even more was how the multiverse allowed Marlowe and Priscilla to see each other—and themselves—from completely different angles.
Because apparently sometimes the real horror of meeting your alternate selves is realizing they figured out your feelings before you did.
Could these women have saved themselves considerable trouble by communicating?
Absolutely.
Would that have deprived me of sapphic rivals traveling through alternate realities while slowly confronting years of unresolved feelings?
Also absolutely.
So I’ll allow it. 🎭✨
Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for gifting this ARC. These are my 100% own honest thoughts!
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