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Unapologetic Love Story
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The dazzling debut new adult romance novel from bestselling author, Elle McNicoll. For fans of Emily Henry's Book Lovers, this is big-hearted and full of bite!
An unapologetic celebration of love, relationships, and the women who have historically been shut out of such stories, until now . . . Elle McNicoll is about to become everyone's favorite new name in new adult romance.
Enter Raina Lewis, London’s hottest It Girl - effortlessly cool, endlessly intriguing, and beloved for her smash-hit podcast spotlighting autistic women. But not everyone’s convinced by the hype. Investigative journalist and ‘King of Cancel Culture’, Tom Branimir is sure there’s more to Raina than meets the eye. He’s determined to uncover her secret. That is... if he can just manage not to fall for her first.
An unapologetic celebration of love, relationships, and the women who have historically been shut out of such stories, until now . . . Elle McNicoll is about to become everyone's favorite new name in new adult romance.
Enter Raina Lewis, London’s hottest It Girl - effortlessly cool, endlessly intriguing, and beloved for her smash-hit podcast spotlighting autistic women. But not everyone’s convinced by the hype. Investigative journalist and ‘King of Cancel Culture’, Tom Branimir is sure there’s more to Raina than meets the eye. He’s determined to uncover her secret. That is... if he can just manage not to fall for her first.
400 pages, Paperback
First published April 2, 2026
About the author
Elle McNicoll
19 books869 followersHey, I'm Elle. I'm Scottish, autistic and an author/screenwriter who is really bad at logging her reading choices.
I write about autistic girls finding out who they are and what makes them happy, because I'm an autistic girl trying to find out who she is and what makes her happy.
I don't read reviews, as they are for readers, but I'm grateful to any and everyone who engages with my work, on the page or on the screen. My Young Adult Romance debut is called Some Like It Cold in it will be published on the 3rd of October. Official professional shiz below:
Elle McNicoll is a bestselling and award-winning novelist and screenwriter. Her debut, A Kind of Spark, won the Blue Peter Book Award and the Overall Waterstones Children’s Book Prize, as well as Blackwell’s Book of 2020. She is a four time Carnegie nominated author, and was shortlisted for the Books Are My Bag Awards 2020, 2021 and 2022, the Branford Boase Award 2020 and The Little Rebels Award 2020 and 2021. She was also honoured in the US with the Schneider Award, 2022.
Her second Middle Grade novel, Show Us Who You Are, was Blackwell’s Book of the Month and one of The Bookseller’s Best Books of 2021. Her first fantasy middle grade, Like a Charm, was nominated for Best Children’s Book for Older Readers in the first ever Week Junior Book Awards, and was highly praised in the New York Times.
Her debut novel, A Kind of Spark, has also been adapted for television, which debuted on UK and US screens on the 2nd of April, 2023. It is Emmy nominated and won Best Children’s Programme at the Broadcast Awards and the Royal Television Society Awards in London, 2024 and is now streaming in many territories around the globe. A second season is currently airing on CBBC.
Her debut Middle Grade was named as one of the greatest children’s books of all time, coming in at number 75, and she is twice nominated for the Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award.
Her YA debut, Some Like It Cold, will be published on October 1st (US) and October 3rd (UK). She is an advocate for better representation of neurodiversity in publishing, as an autistic and dyspraxic novelist, and currently lives in North London.
I write about autistic girls finding out who they are and what makes them happy, because I'm an autistic girl trying to find out who she is and what makes her happy.
I don't read reviews, as they are for readers, but I'm grateful to any and everyone who engages with my work, on the page or on the screen. My Young Adult Romance debut is called Some Like It Cold in it will be published on the 3rd of October. Official professional shiz below:
Elle McNicoll is a bestselling and award-winning novelist and screenwriter. Her debut, A Kind of Spark, won the Blue Peter Book Award and the Overall Waterstones Children’s Book Prize, as well as Blackwell’s Book of 2020. She is a four time Carnegie nominated author, and was shortlisted for the Books Are My Bag Awards 2020, 2021 and 2022, the Branford Boase Award 2020 and The Little Rebels Award 2020 and 2021. She was also honoured in the US with the Schneider Award, 2022.
Her second Middle Grade novel, Show Us Who You Are, was Blackwell’s Book of the Month and one of The Bookseller’s Best Books of 2021. Her first fantasy middle grade, Like a Charm, was nominated for Best Children’s Book for Older Readers in the first ever Week Junior Book Awards, and was highly praised in the New York Times.
Her debut novel, A Kind of Spark, has also been adapted for television, which debuted on UK and US screens on the 2nd of April, 2023. It is Emmy nominated and won Best Children’s Programme at the Broadcast Awards and the Royal Television Society Awards in London, 2024 and is now streaming in many territories around the globe. A second season is currently airing on CBBC.
Her debut Middle Grade was named as one of the greatest children’s books of all time, coming in at number 75, and she is twice nominated for the Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award.
Her YA debut, Some Like It Cold, will be published on October 1st (US) and October 3rd (UK). She is an advocate for better representation of neurodiversity in publishing, as an autistic and dyspraxic novelist, and currently lives in North London.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 146 reviews
November 27, 2025
This is written with heart for anyone who has been told you don’t look autistic enough. Or that you’re *too* different. Or for those who feel they aren’t autistic enough. Or for ANYONE who wants an incredible love story that will make you laugh and tear up and glow from within.💜
Raina Lewis is a 28-year-old podcaster spotlighting autistic women. Tom Branimir is an investigative journalist who is known as the King of Cancel Culture. When Tom crosses wits with Raina, he is surprised to find a sparring partner.
As someone who recently got an autism diagnosis, someone who didn’t even realise I could claim a community, a sense of being understood; this hit home.
This book highlights how autistic people (women especially) listen to people talk at length about how tragic and terrible it is to be them, or to be in their lives, or how they’re not real.
You can tell this is an own-voices romance from someone desperate to see themselves represented.
If Clark Kent’s signature glasses did represent autistic masking, they’d been discarded.
Raina is bubbly and optimistic, Tom is more cynical and comes across as dour at first. I wouldn’t call this opposites attract as Elle artfully demonstrates masking and also the desperate need to fit in - even from neurotypicals.
The steamy scenes will have your toes curling, but it is balanced out with emotional resonance.
Yes, it was occasionally cheesy. Yes, the romance felt too perfect, too quickly. But, hey. This is a love story. A projection we can dream about.
“No one is voiceless–some people just don’t know how to vary their listening skills.”
Physical arc gifted by Pan MacMillan.
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Tiktok
Raina Lewis is a 28-year-old podcaster spotlighting autistic women. Tom Branimir is an investigative journalist who is known as the King of Cancel Culture. When Tom crosses wits with Raina, he is surprised to find a sparring partner.
As someone who recently got an autism diagnosis, someone who didn’t even realise I could claim a community, a sense of being understood; this hit home.
This book highlights how autistic people (women especially) listen to people talk at length about how tragic and terrible it is to be them, or to be in their lives, or how they’re not real.
You can tell this is an own-voices romance from someone desperate to see themselves represented.
If Clark Kent’s signature glasses did represent autistic masking, they’d been discarded.
Raina is bubbly and optimistic, Tom is more cynical and comes across as dour at first. I wouldn’t call this opposites attract as Elle artfully demonstrates masking and also the desperate need to fit in - even from neurotypicals.
The steamy scenes will have your toes curling, but it is balanced out with emotional resonance.
Yes, it was occasionally cheesy. Yes, the romance felt too perfect, too quickly. But, hey. This is a love story. A projection we can dream about.
“No one is voiceless–some people just don’t know how to vary their listening skills.”
Physical arc gifted by Pan MacMillan.
Bookstagram
Tiktok
December 1, 2025
[arc review] I so badly wanted to enjoy this book and now I feel like the minority while reading everyone’s positive reviews—I just didn’t connect with the story. I think it’s definitely a me problem, because I’m not a huge fan of the writing style and traditionally prefer to read romance in first person.
I did like the way the story touched on the difficulties neurodiverse women face—being told you don’t look like you’re autistic, but then made to feel like you’re just difficult for wanting to establish health boundaries that work for you and make you feel comfortable in a world built for those that are neurotypical.
as someone with debilitating high functioning ADHD—I too struggle establishing boundaries on what is expected of me, so I found myself relating to raina throughout the story.
I didn’t—controversially—like tom, and at times I found myself rolling my eyes at him. I also feel like third act break ups only really work if it makes sense for the plot, but in this it felt predictable and only there to serve as a final push towards the end of the book.
I know that when ‘unapologetic love story’ is published, it’s going to be one of those books that becomes well loved and received by a lot of people—I just wish I was one of them!
I did like the way the story touched on the difficulties neurodiverse women face—being told you don’t look like you’re autistic, but then made to feel like you’re just difficult for wanting to establish health boundaries that work for you and make you feel comfortable in a world built for those that are neurotypical.
as someone with debilitating high functioning ADHD—I too struggle establishing boundaries on what is expected of me, so I found myself relating to raina throughout the story.
I didn’t—controversially—like tom, and at times I found myself rolling my eyes at him. I also feel like third act break ups only really work if it makes sense for the plot, but in this it felt predictable and only there to serve as a final push towards the end of the book.
I know that when ‘unapologetic love story’ is published, it’s going to be one of those books that becomes well loved and received by a lot of people—I just wish I was one of them!
May 31, 2026
I definitely think I'm in the minority with this one, especially after seeing all the positive reviews! But I can acknowledge that this is a me issue and not the book.
But I just could not connect to the characters in this book, and I didn't even like the MMC which is never a good sign! I thought the third-act break-up was pointless... I need romances to stop doing them. Give me something new because I hate how predictable they are.
That said, the writing was good and I loved how neurodiversity was represented throughout, especially as a neurodiverse woman.
Wish I had loved it, especially as the author was lovely but alas... twas not for me.
I received an advanced copy for free through the publisher (PanMacmillan) and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
But I just could not connect to the characters in this book, and I didn't even like the MMC which is never a good sign! I thought the third-act break-up was pointless... I need romances to stop doing them. Give me something new because I hate how predictable they are.
That said, the writing was good and I loved how neurodiversity was represented throughout, especially as a neurodiverse woman.
Wish I had loved it, especially as the author was lovely but alas... twas not for me.
I received an advanced copy for free through the publisher (PanMacmillan) and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 25, 2026
นิยายรักที่นางเอกเปนออทิสติก เขียนโดยนข.ออทิสติก
ชอบประเด็นที่ใส่มา บางทีอ่านแล้วก้รีเฟลคเหมือนกันว่าเคยไปทำตัว insensitive หรือ ignorant ใส่คนกลุ่มนี้ไหมวะ🥹
แอบคิดว่ามันไปทาง chick lit นิดนึง แต่โรแม้นซ์คือหวานเลยล่ะ พระเอกรักนางเอกมากไม่ไหวแร้วๆๆๆ และถึงเราจะรู้สึกว่ามันยังขาดๆ เกินๆ มีช่วงไม่เก็ตความคิดตลค.อยู่บ้างกับการตัดสินใจในสถานการณ์หลายๆ อย่าง แต่ว่านะ ยี่สิบเปอสุดท้ายคือเลิ้ชชชชชชชชช มีแต่เหตุการณ์ปึ้งๆ พระเอกง้อนางเอกแบร่บ bro that's not grand gesture it's Graundé Ghestqué
spice: 2/5
ชอบประเด็นที่ใส่มา บางทีอ่านแล้วก้รีเฟลคเหมือนกันว่าเคยไปทำตัว insensitive หรือ ignorant ใส่คนกลุ่มนี้ไหมวะ🥹
แอบคิดว่ามันไปทาง chick lit นิดนึง แต่โรแม้นซ์คือหวานเลยล่ะ พระเอกรักนางเอกมากไม่ไหวแร้วๆๆๆ และถึงเราจะรู้สึกว่ามันยังขาดๆ เกินๆ มีช่วงไม่เก็ตความคิดตลค.อยู่บ้างกับการตัดสินใจในสถานการณ์หลายๆ อย่าง แต่ว่านะ ยี่สิบเปอสุดท้ายคือเลิ้ชชชชชชชชช มีแต่เหตุการณ์ปึ้งๆ พระเอกง้อนางเอกแบร่บ bro that's not grand gesture it's Graundé Ghestqué
spice: 2/5
April 9, 2026
4.5
Anyone who knows me can tell you that I am no way shape or form a romance reader.
But I am always very excited to try out books by autistic authors or with autism rep in it. So after a bit of debating I decided to give the audiobook a try and I don’t regret it!!
I loved Raina so much, she was so sweetly relatable in very specific ways and a majestic cloud of optimism! I adored the friendships and even kicked my feet at the romance!!
Jessie Mei Lin did an amazing job narrating which was surprising because I didn’t know she narrated but it fit so so perfectly I couldn’t think of anyone else doing it!
Anyone who knows me can tell you that I am no way shape or form a romance reader.
But I am always very excited to try out books by autistic authors or with autism rep in it. So after a bit of debating I decided to give the audiobook a try and I don’t regret it!!
I loved Raina so much, she was so sweetly relatable in very specific ways and a majestic cloud of optimism! I adored the friendships and even kicked my feet at the romance!!
Jessie Mei Lin did an amazing job narrating which was surprising because I didn’t know she narrated but it fit so so perfectly I couldn’t think of anyone else doing it!
April 27, 2026
3.75* Unapologetic Love Story has all the vibes of a naughties British rom-com, whist also being the antidote to the rampant ableism those classic rom-coms often contain.
I adore both Elle's and Raina's passion for uplifting and highlighting neurodivergent voices and experiences, something that shone through in this book. This is such a wonderfully empowering story, whilst also being enlightening, funny and emotional. I'm definitely looking forward to more romance from Elle in the future.
tw: ableism, disordered eating, body shaming
I adore both Elle's and Raina's passion for uplifting and highlighting neurodivergent voices and experiences, something that shone through in this book. This is such a wonderfully empowering story, whilst also being enlightening, funny and emotional. I'm definitely looking forward to more romance from Elle in the future.
tw: ableism, disordered eating, body shaming
March 5, 2026
Unapologetic Love Story by Elle McNicoll is hands down one of my favorites of 2026. Yes I know the year’s just started but trust me, it’ll take a lot to bump this one down the list. I have to preface this review by admitting that Elle McNicoll is one of my favorite authors and Some Kind of Spark captured my type of autism so extremely well I force everyone around me to read it (while I keep Role Model close to my heart because of the relatable school trauma). So I already am quite familiar with everything she wrote. I loved her YA romances already, but this one. THIS ONE.
If you’re autistic, stop reading this review and (pre)order it. It is 100% healing. It is a warm hug, a familiar space with understanding and love. If you’re not autistic, please order this one too but you might want to read this review first.
What I love is that you can really feel and see what autism is like for the main character Raina, both in her POV and when Tom is trying to understand her. It makes it recognisable for fellow autistics, and at the same time it gets explained to a neurotypical reader who slowly will get to know Raina’s autism. It’s so beautifully done it made me cry. But of course this book, like the main character, is so much more than autism! It’s just my focus as a fellow autistic. Because the story is amazing too, I was sucked into this stort at page 1, it didn’t let me go. The supporting characters are so layered! Raina’s best friend was at times unbearable and at other times amazing, she felt so real to me!
But Tom and Raina themselves really shone in this one. Their meetings and banter and getting to know each other is chef’s kiss and I was so invested in their relationship and the plot! It is very character driven, just how I like it, but enough happens to keep it interesting. This novel is truly fun, yet deep and meaningful with a message simmering underneath. I can honestly say this is my favorite romance book ever and I will be rereading this many times in the future.
I received a free copy through netgalley, many thanks, but my opinions are my own.
If you’re autistic, stop reading this review and (pre)order it. It is 100% healing. It is a warm hug, a familiar space with understanding and love. If you’re not autistic, please order this one too but you might want to read this review first.
What I love is that you can really feel and see what autism is like for the main character Raina, both in her POV and when Tom is trying to understand her. It makes it recognisable for fellow autistics, and at the same time it gets explained to a neurotypical reader who slowly will get to know Raina’s autism. It’s so beautifully done it made me cry. But of course this book, like the main character, is so much more than autism! It’s just my focus as a fellow autistic. Because the story is amazing too, I was sucked into this stort at page 1, it didn’t let me go. The supporting characters are so layered! Raina’s best friend was at times unbearable and at other times amazing, she felt so real to me!
But Tom and Raina themselves really shone in this one. Their meetings and banter and getting to know each other is chef’s kiss and I was so invested in their relationship and the plot! It is very character driven, just how I like it, but enough happens to keep it interesting. This novel is truly fun, yet deep and meaningful with a message simmering underneath. I can honestly say this is my favorite romance book ever and I will be rereading this many times in the future.
I received a free copy through netgalley, many thanks, but my opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
An incredibly refreshing romance novel. Raina is a podcaster behind the show, The Disability Track, on which she discusses autism and interviews disabled people. Tom is a writer, well known for his take downs of terrible people, earning him the nickname, the "King of Cancel Culture."
The pair meet at an extravagant event and are immediately drawn to one another. Tom thinks she might be a good story for his book, but quickly realises that she's so much more than fodder for his writing. Raina is reluctant, hesitant to let him in, especially when so many horrible and ableist comments have been said about her before.
Luckily, they continue to spend time together and Raina begins to let Tom in. The more he sees, the more he finds to like. But the world is cruel to autistic women, especially successful, attractive autistic women who don't fit the preconceived ideas of what an autistic woman "should" be like. Tom and Raina might be able to unmask in the comfort of her Barnes home, but in the outside world it's a different story.
This book truly has it all, brilliant side characters, spicy scenes, great representation, thoughtful social commentary and a third act conflict that actually makes sense.
I thought I was sick of romance books, but I just needed to read this.
Unapologetic Love Story is Elle McNicoll's first adult book, but reads so naturally that I would've thought she's been writing for this audience forever. I'm definitely going to read her YA books now!
Thank you to NetGalley and Pan Macmillan for the eARC.
The pair meet at an extravagant event and are immediately drawn to one another. Tom thinks she might be a good story for his book, but quickly realises that she's so much more than fodder for his writing. Raina is reluctant, hesitant to let him in, especially when so many horrible and ableist comments have been said about her before.
Luckily, they continue to spend time together and Raina begins to let Tom in. The more he sees, the more he finds to like. But the world is cruel to autistic women, especially successful, attractive autistic women who don't fit the preconceived ideas of what an autistic woman "should" be like. Tom and Raina might be able to unmask in the comfort of her Barnes home, but in the outside world it's a different story.
This book truly has it all, brilliant side characters, spicy scenes, great representation, thoughtful social commentary and a third act conflict that actually makes sense.
I thought I was sick of romance books, but I just needed to read this.
Unapologetic Love Story is Elle McNicoll's first adult book, but reads so naturally that I would've thought she's been writing for this audience forever. I'm definitely going to read her YA books now!
Thank you to NetGalley and Pan Macmillan for the eARC.
June 18, 2026
ARC REVIEW:
What a lovely book. This book was unapologetically and beautifully written. So many of the books that I have been reading recently have lacked a strong powerful female main character and Raina was exactly that. Tom was also such a great male main character and I love it when the man falls first and harder. Even the third act break up of this book was good (even though miscommunication is my least favorite quote). This book was so amazing and I was so glad I was able to receive an advanced copy of it.
⭐️4.5/5
What a lovely book. This book was unapologetically and beautifully written. So many of the books that I have been reading recently have lacked a strong powerful female main character and Raina was exactly that. Tom was also such a great male main character and I love it when the man falls first and harder. Even the third act break up of this book was good (even though miscommunication is my least favorite quote). This book was so amazing and I was so glad I was able to receive an advanced copy of it.
⭐️4.5/5
May 31, 2026
✨ ARC Review ✨
3.75 - Unapologetic Love Story was such a feel good read for me 💕 Nothing overly dramatic (except for that one scene that we all saw coming). Just a story that genuinely left me smiling, which honestly doesn't happen often! I only wish there was more exploration around the podcast as I think that would have been interesting. Still, a cozy and enjoyable read overall!
3.75 - Unapologetic Love Story was such a feel good read for me 💕 Nothing overly dramatic (except for that one scene that we all saw coming). Just a story that genuinely left me smiling, which honestly doesn't happen often! I only wish there was more exploration around the podcast as I think that would have been interesting. Still, a cozy and enjoyable read overall!
April 21, 2026
I hugely respect and admire Elle McNicoll for all her work advocating for neurodivergent people, and I've previously loved several of her books. This is her first adult romance, and quite honestly, I struggled with it. I think that's largely because it was, at no fault of the book, Not For Me, which is 100% fine and I really hope a lot of other (autistic) people will connect with it more.
Ultimately, what I took away from this book was mainly that it felt almost like it was intended as a movie rather than a novel. I also think it would work exceedingly well as a movie, it has all those early 2000s UK romcom vibes. But as a novel, it didn't work for me in several small ways.
Mainly, I struggled to really connect with the characters. Raina, because she was just SO witty literally all of the time and it felt a little exhausting to read. Tom, because he seemed to almost worship Raina to an uncomfortable degree. He seemed to think she was entirely perfect, and I would have liked to see a little more nuance in their relationship. I also didn't love how Tom chose physical violence towards some of the bad guys not once but twice, and I really don't see how that could ever be romantic. I genuinely did see the chemistry between them, but it didn't land for me in the end.
I also struggled to read so much hatefulness towards Raina and hatefulness in general through Raina's parents, Tom's friends, Raina's online haters, et cetera. Elle McNicoll has always had a great way to deal with ableism head-on, and it's very valuable, but as a fellow autistic person, I do have a hard time reading it.
Ultimately, what I took away from this book was mainly that it felt almost like it was intended as a movie rather than a novel. I also think it would work exceedingly well as a movie, it has all those early 2000s UK romcom vibes. But as a novel, it didn't work for me in several small ways.
Mainly, I struggled to really connect with the characters. Raina, because she was just SO witty literally all of the time and it felt a little exhausting to read. Tom, because he seemed to almost worship Raina to an uncomfortable degree. He seemed to think she was entirely perfect, and I would have liked to see a little more nuance in their relationship. I also didn't love how Tom chose physical violence towards some of the bad guys not once but twice, and I really don't see how that could ever be romantic. I genuinely did see the chemistry between them, but it didn't land for me in the end.
I also struggled to read so much hatefulness towards Raina and hatefulness in general through Raina's parents, Tom's friends, Raina's online haters, et cetera. Elle McNicoll has always had a great way to deal with ableism head-on, and it's very valuable, but as a fellow autistic person, I do have a hard time reading it.
May 5, 2026
4.5💫
Ugh🥹
Ugh🥹
November 13, 2025
This is Elle McNicoll's adult debut and it is very much an adult novel (sweary words and sexy scenes included!). And as a reader who enjoys romance I really, really enjoyed this book. She has a very (unapologetic) way of telling things like they are in her books. And I love it.
This story focuses on older main characters in their late 20's and early/mid 30's who have a lot of their own lives sorted, which I always enjoy reading. Tom and Raina know who they are, or who they want to be, but just want that one special thing to complete their wee puzzle... And because the characters are older in this book - with a life and jobs and experience - we get sweary words and physical affection and life. We also get to see how the romance between Raina and Tom forms, how they are drawn to each others intellect, wit, and their banter. This is their foundation (and doesn't it just smack 'autistic stereotypes' in the face!) and it's really quite fun to read/watch develop.
I loved this more 'adult' story about an adult autistic woman from Elle McNicoll. Yes, we've read about similar characters in her other books, but in 'Unapologetic Love Story' we also get to talk about the shushed over aspects of being an autistic women, which is refreshing and very much needed. As an autistic woman, I find that is isn't uncommon for people to be surprised that I have emotions, big feels, about things (pick a topic; climate, environment, and human right are some of my favorites) but can't handle wooly jumpers, loud noises/bright spaces, or people telling me to 'smile, it can't be that bad', or f*cking supermarkets . All this to say that this romance book is real, it made me feel seen, and will undoubtedly make others feel seen too. It has a rawness to it, a reality that I feel lends itself to the story. Some romances paint unreal expectations of relationships and life; I don't think this one does, not at it's heart.
Did I shout, sigh, swoon, swear, sweat through drama? Yes, I did. Did I also say 'f*ck yes' and 'isn't that the truth' so many times that I lost count? Also yes. Is Tom so totally swoony, and Raina deserving of all the love. Absolutely. Did I cry a few times? Yes.
And not just because I felt seen. Not just because some of this was too sweet and cute. Not just because I felt the pain of some of Raina's experiences. But because all of those things together. The tears were of sadness and joy combined. Of those big feelings we autistics 'are not meant to have'.
We need more books by neurodivergent authors with neurodivergent characters. I think I get so much joy from books with this representation because it's a reality for so many - and such a diverse reality too. How do we show authors its safe to write like this, that the support is there, that
I received this as an eARC from the publisher through NetGalley. It has not affected my opinions - but I did squeal when it came through!
Also I wrote way more than I wanted to here. A simple "Sweary-word yes!" didn't seem appropriate for a GoodReads review. ... I'll do that somewhere else..
This story focuses on older main characters in their late 20's and early/mid 30's who have a lot of their own lives sorted, which I always enjoy reading. Tom and Raina know who they are, or who they want to be, but just want that one special thing to complete their wee puzzle... And because the characters are older in this book - with a life and jobs and experience - we get sweary words and physical affection and life. We also get to see how the romance between Raina and Tom forms, how they are drawn to each others intellect, wit, and their banter. This is their foundation (and doesn't it just smack 'autistic stereotypes' in the face!) and it's really quite fun to read/watch develop.
I loved this more 'adult' story about an adult autistic woman from Elle McNicoll. Yes, we've read about similar characters in her other books, but in 'Unapologetic Love Story' we also get to talk about the shushed over aspects of being an autistic women, which is refreshing and very much needed. As an autistic woman, I find that is isn't uncommon for people to be surprised that I have emotions, big feels, about things (pick a topic; climate, environment, and human right are some of my favorites) but can't handle wooly jumpers, loud noises/bright spaces, or people telling me to 'smile, it can't be that bad', or f*cking supermarkets . All this to say that this romance book is real, it made me feel seen, and will undoubtedly make others feel seen too. It has a rawness to it, a reality that I feel lends itself to the story. Some romances paint unreal expectations of relationships and life; I don't think this one does, not at it's heart.
Did I shout, sigh, swoon, swear, sweat through drama? Yes, I did. Did I also say 'f*ck yes' and 'isn't that the truth' so many times that I lost count? Also yes. Is Tom so totally swoony, and Raina deserving of all the love. Absolutely. Did I cry a few times? Yes.
And not just because I felt seen. Not just because some of this was too sweet and cute. Not just because I felt the pain of some of Raina's experiences. But because all of those things together. The tears were of sadness and joy combined. Of those big feelings we autistics 'are not meant to have'.
We need more books by neurodivergent authors with neurodivergent characters. I think I get so much joy from books with this representation because it's a reality for so many - and such a diverse reality too. How do we show authors its safe to write like this, that the support is there, that
I received this as an eARC from the publisher through NetGalley. It has not affected my opinions - but I did squeal when it came through!
Also I wrote way more than I wanted to here. A simple "Sweary-word yes!" didn't seem appropriate for a GoodReads review. ... I'll do that somewhere else..
May 9, 2026
I really wanted to love this book but it just felt like something was missing. The story and characters were all very obvious stereotypes and it just lacked depth for me. 3 stars as it was a nice story, super easy to read with good writing and I finished it🤷♀️
May 7, 2026
4,5 ✨ ‘He loved me unapologetically. He saw me and loved me in and out of my mask. Now I no longer wear one. My whole life, I’ve felt unnatural. But with him, everything is easy. I feel more natural than ever before. I feel human. For the first time.’
I enjoyed this story a lot and am so glad to have listened to the audio-book read by Jessie Mei Lee, a neurodivergent actress, who brought the story to life beautifully. I loved her narration, the characters and the steamy romance. This book felt full of hope and possibilities and I thoroughly adored it and hope lots of people will read and enjoy it as well.
I enjoyed this story a lot and am so glad to have listened to the audio-book read by Jessie Mei Lee, a neurodivergent actress, who brought the story to life beautifully. I loved her narration, the characters and the steamy romance. This book felt full of hope and possibilities and I thoroughly adored it and hope lots of people will read and enjoy it as well.
April 6, 2026
This book is Elle mcnicolli’s debut Adult novel ( she has written ya in the past) and it’s also my first book of hers I’ve read too - considering I don’t really read Ya .
THE cover is so beautiful .the mmc is hot and so is the fmc and i love that. I did request this as an arc but I did not get approved . However , I did buy the book when it was released - I mean the fact the fmc is autistic was a reason to buy this book alone. I also wanted to support an autistic author .
So um this book has an autistic fmc - I love that as an autistic women myself . This book actually shows an autistic woman struggle - sort of ( it shows that her autism very much affects her life ) . I love to see this in books because it’s rare . It’s rare to read a book about someone with autism ( especially a woman ) and it not just be about her having barely any meltdowns / shutdowns etc.
Reina is a character I love - like me she love to dress girly ( autistic women are for some reason presented in society as women who “don’t care to look pretty “ this book did have that message at the start of the book - the fmc debunks that . Now I also love an fmc that has a podcast - a podcast about disability I love that .
Now let me be clear I know many autistic women do dress more tomboyish - not all of us are girly ( I for example don’t wear makeup ) but I love pink and dressing girly . I love skirts , dresses , cardigans . Like the fmc . I love looking cute and as pretty as you can without the makeup
I also love tom . An mmc who knows she has autism and what does he do ( he finds out more about it ) . She has a podcast - so he listens to it . He research’s about it . He actually is there for her - this man is down bad quickly ( but it pays off because he like cares about her and I love it . Tom won’t be an mmc everyone loves but for me I do - he calls her sweetheart . He is essentially the kind of mmc I yearn for .
Let me be clear though tom isn’t portrayed as perfect at all and I like that - I like that both he and Raina (the fmc) are flawed characters. I love them as both individuals and together .
This book may be in 3rd person but it works for this book - to me the 3rd person enhances the book instead of dulling it ( which is rare ) - this shows that Elle mcniolli understands how to do it well and I love that .
This book had a 3rd act breakup but it works well - for me it worked well even if I wish tom and Reina hadn’t broken up at all . And I love the way it was resolved .
the book is kinda dedicated and written for us autistic women so ofc I had to pick it up . Especially since it’s autism awareness/ autism acceptance month . It’s a perfect book to pick up this month ( April) . I love seeing autism rep / ND REP IN BOOKS ( as a an audhder ) . I absolutely love this truly .
This is a book set in London with a Scottish mmc and a British( English ) fmc.the author to my knowledge is also a Scot so .( I like that ) . For those wondering, this book is In 3rd person I know that’s not for everyone so that’s why I’m telling you all this . This is also an own voices book because like me and fmc the author is also autistic
THE cover is so beautiful .the mmc is hot and so is the fmc and i love that. I did request this as an arc but I did not get approved . However , I did buy the book when it was released - I mean the fact the fmc is autistic was a reason to buy this book alone. I also wanted to support an autistic author .
So um this book has an autistic fmc - I love that as an autistic women myself . This book actually shows an autistic woman struggle - sort of ( it shows that her autism very much affects her life ) . I love to see this in books because it’s rare . It’s rare to read a book about someone with autism ( especially a woman ) and it not just be about her having barely any meltdowns / shutdowns etc.
Reina is a character I love - like me she love to dress girly ( autistic women are for some reason presented in society as women who “don’t care to look pretty “ this book did have that message at the start of the book - the fmc debunks that . Now I also love an fmc that has a podcast - a podcast about disability I love that .
Now let me be clear I know many autistic women do dress more tomboyish - not all of us are girly ( I for example don’t wear makeup ) but I love pink and dressing girly . I love skirts , dresses , cardigans . Like the fmc . I love looking cute and as pretty as you can without the makeup
I also love tom . An mmc who knows she has autism and what does he do ( he finds out more about it ) . She has a podcast - so he listens to it . He research’s about it . He actually is there for her - this man is down bad quickly ( but it pays off because he like cares about her and I love it . Tom won’t be an mmc everyone loves but for me I do - he calls her sweetheart . He is essentially the kind of mmc I yearn for .
Let me be clear though tom isn’t portrayed as perfect at all and I like that - I like that both he and Raina (the fmc) are flawed characters. I love them as both individuals and together .
This book may be in 3rd person but it works for this book - to me the 3rd person enhances the book instead of dulling it ( which is rare ) - this shows that Elle mcniolli understands how to do it well and I love that .
This book had a 3rd act breakup but it works well - for me it worked well even if I wish tom and Reina hadn’t broken up at all . And I love the way it was resolved .
the book is kinda dedicated and written for us autistic women so ofc I had to pick it up . Especially since it’s autism awareness/ autism acceptance month . It’s a perfect book to pick up this month ( April) . I love seeing autism rep / ND REP IN BOOKS ( as a an audhder ) . I absolutely love this truly .
This is a book set in London with a Scottish mmc and a British( English ) fmc.the author to my knowledge is also a Scot so .( I like that ) . For those wondering, this book is In 3rd person I know that’s not for everyone so that’s why I’m telling you all this . This is also an own voices book because like me and fmc the author is also autistic
March 11, 2026
4.25⭐️
This was a beautiful read. From a neurotypical pov, I know I could never grasp and understand to a deeper extent the experiences of a neurodiverse individual, but this romance put such emphasis and highlight on how every single neurodiverse person is different, with different emotions, different experiences & different ways they express themselves in society and I thought this was a really important message.
The representation ofc was incredible and the way it highlighted the way SO many people perceive neurodiverse people. It was heartbreaking being in Raina’s head during times where she was being spoken to in such a disgusting way.
But, I LOVED the dual pov. I felt so connected to Raina, I loved being able to understand her actions and the way she’d mask herself, through her internal thoughts and feelings. With Tom, I felt it was so important for the story that we felt how he was trying to understand and learn everything about Raina.
The love story was perfection. It felt authentic and raw, with genuine ups and downs that felt realistic and not like an unachievable fairytale. The emotional development of their relationship was so satisfying and made me feel so warm, then the SPICE?! Loved it!
So, this only isn’t 5 stars for me because of my massive dislike for Seb & Ottie. Ok, I know it was important to the plot. However, I felt that Tom should’ve cut ties sooner, they made shitty comments SO early on that I feel he dismissed? Just made him lose a tiny bit of credibility to me.
But such a refreshing, character-driven, romance!
This was a beautiful read. From a neurotypical pov, I know I could never grasp and understand to a deeper extent the experiences of a neurodiverse individual, but this romance put such emphasis and highlight on how every single neurodiverse person is different, with different emotions, different experiences & different ways they express themselves in society and I thought this was a really important message.
The representation ofc was incredible and the way it highlighted the way SO many people perceive neurodiverse people. It was heartbreaking being in Raina’s head during times where she was being spoken to in such a disgusting way.
But, I LOVED the dual pov. I felt so connected to Raina, I loved being able to understand her actions and the way she’d mask herself, through her internal thoughts and feelings. With Tom, I felt it was so important for the story that we felt how he was trying to understand and learn everything about Raina.
The love story was perfection. It felt authentic and raw, with genuine ups and downs that felt realistic and not like an unachievable fairytale. The emotional development of their relationship was so satisfying and made me feel so warm, then the SPICE?! Loved it!
So, this only isn’t 5 stars for me because of my massive dislike for Seb & Ottie. Ok, I know it was important to the plot. However, I felt that Tom should’ve cut ties sooner, they made shitty comments SO early on that I feel he dismissed? Just made him lose a tiny bit of credibility to me.
But such a refreshing, character-driven, romance!
May 20, 2026
Unapologetic Love Story was such a meaningful read for me. While I’m not neurodivergent myself, I connected deeply to the themes surrounding judgment, assumptions, and invisible struggles. Growing up with a mother who was disabled but physically appeared “normal,” I saw firsthand how quickly people can dismiss or judge what they don’t immediately understand. That made so many moments in this story hit especially hard.
I really appreciated getting to learn more about autism and, more specifically, how society interacts with autistic women. Elle McNicoll handled those experiences with so much honesty and compassion. Raina felt incredibly real, and I found myself rooting for her from beginning to end.
What I loved most was the support and understanding woven throughout the story. Some moments genuinely brought me to tears because of how deeply human and validating they felt. This book does such a beautiful job showing the importance of being accepted as your authentic self instead of feeling pressured to hide parts of who you are just to make others comfortable.
One quote that really stayed with me was:
“You know, that’s the saddest thing of all. Only being loved when you know, deep down, you’re at your most hidden. You’re most dishonest.”
That line perfectly captures the emotional core of this story. Honest, heartfelt, and incredibly important.
Thanks to NetGalley for providing an early copy in exchange for an honest review.
I really appreciated getting to learn more about autism and, more specifically, how society interacts with autistic women. Elle McNicoll handled those experiences with so much honesty and compassion. Raina felt incredibly real, and I found myself rooting for her from beginning to end.
What I loved most was the support and understanding woven throughout the story. Some moments genuinely brought me to tears because of how deeply human and validating they felt. This book does such a beautiful job showing the importance of being accepted as your authentic self instead of feeling pressured to hide parts of who you are just to make others comfortable.
One quote that really stayed with me was:
“You know, that’s the saddest thing of all. Only being loved when you know, deep down, you’re at your most hidden. You’re most dishonest.”
That line perfectly captures the emotional core of this story. Honest, heartfelt, and incredibly important.
Thanks to NetGalley for providing an early copy in exchange for an honest review.
April 27, 2026
Elle McNicoll's adult romcom debut has some of the best #ownvoices autism rep that I've ever read!! Raina is unapologetically autistic and uses her podcasting platform to elevate other actually autistic people. When she is approached by Tom, a Scottish journalist known for 'cancelling' influencers, she's leery to say the least. But as the two circle one another, their chemistry becomes undeniable and Tom becomes one of the few people Raina has to mask her true self from. From sensory overload, to feeling like she's equally not neurotypical or autistic enough, Raina has had to deal with medical gaslighting, bullying and more. Great on audio with a must listen conversation between the author and narrator included at the end. Definitely a standout read for me this year!
May 3, 2026
So this is one of my favourite author's first foray into adult fiction. What always impresses me is Elle McNicoll is able to write with the exact same amount of heart and passion for each age group, her writing always feels so natural. This time there's also a commentary on both romance and romance fiction, and Autistic people's relationships within those spheres. The highlight for me was the ending, which is very satisfying!
May 4, 2026
Listened to the audiobook. Jessie Mei Li did an amazing job narrating everyone and it was very immersive! It's also very interesting to be in a perspective of a mc who has neurodivergent autism. It really did open my eyes to everything that she experienced and especially in love.
Imo, i think everyone should read this because it is quite enjoyable and we really need more stories like this in the book community 😌👏
Imo, i think everyone should read this because it is quite enjoyable and we really need more stories like this in the book community 😌👏
April 3, 2026
I really enjoyed this book
Raina Lewis is dazzling London with her smash-hit podcast The Disability Track, which celebrates neurodiverse women.
Tom Branimir, a cynical investigative journalist known as the ‘King of Cancel Culture’, is seeking his next story.
Big-hearted, bold, and full of bite, Unapologetic Love Story is the dazzling debut adult romance novel from bestselling author, Elle McNicoll. For fans of Emily Henry's Book Lovers and Talia Hibbert's Get a Life, Chloe Brown.
Raina Lewis is dazzling London with her smash-hit podcast The Disability Track, which celebrates neurodiverse women.
Tom Branimir, a cynical investigative journalist known as the ‘King of Cancel Culture’, is seeking his next story.
Big-hearted, bold, and full of bite, Unapologetic Love Story is the dazzling debut adult romance novel from bestselling author, Elle McNicoll. For fans of Emily Henry's Book Lovers and Talia Hibbert's Get a Life, Chloe Brown.
April 30, 2026
THIS BOOK NEEDS ALL THE HYPE
Gorgeous romance with an autistic FMC who is nothing but herself.
I loved this. It was sooo relatabyand had me giggling, getting all worked up and also swooning.
Loved the romance.
Loved the friendships - and how the toxic parts of them played out.
Loved the family representation.
This book felt honest, refreshing and very much the sparkly pink joy in a book space that likes the negative aspects of being neurodivergent.
Gorgeous romance with an autistic FMC who is nothing but herself.
I loved this. It was sooo relatabyand had me giggling, getting all worked up and also swooning.
Loved the romance.
Loved the friendships - and how the toxic parts of them played out.
Loved the family representation.
This book felt honest, refreshing and very much the sparkly pink joy in a book space that likes the negative aspects of being neurodivergent.
Currently Reading
March 5, 2026Eeek thanku so much Pan for the finished copy and goodies, so excited to be a part of the blog tour !! <3
May 3, 2026
I love autistic people falling in love!!! Also like that this protagonist was angrier than most of elles - less of a palatable autistic woman.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
“As long as I’m alive, I will never stop loving you, Raina. It’s in my fucking bones. Archaeologists will be able to see you etched in me.”
Elle McNicoll writing an adult romance . I was so ready for it. I’m happy to say that Unapologetic Love Story really delivered. It was sharp, funny, romantic, and angry in all the right ways. It felt so true to Elle’s style, especially in how she writes autistic womanhood with real depth, rage, humour, and heart.
First things first: Raina Lewis is THAT girl. She’s confident, stylish, biting, vulnerable underneath it all, and completely unwilling to shrink herself to make other people comfortable. And honestly? I loved her for that immediately. There is something about the way Elle writes autistic female protagonists that feels so real. Not polished or sanitised. Not written to be palatable. Just...real. And Raina absolutely embodies that.
And because this is Elle, the book is also infinitely quotable . Genuinely, every five pages, I was like, “Excuse me?! I need to highlight that before I combust.”
The autism rep here hit so hard for me, too. There’s so much truth in the way Raina moves through the world, in the exhaustion of being misunderstood, in the anger of having other people define autism for you, and in the deep ache of wanting connection while knowing how often the world gets it wrong.
And Raina’s speech was incredible. I loved how unapologetic she was; how she refused to let autism be framed as a tragedy or burden or some cautionary tale for neurotypical people.
Their first interactions were SO good because Raina is not remotely impressed by him at first, and rightfully so.
Tom is basically hopeless when it comes to her, and while yes, the romance develops quite quickly, I can’t even be mad because the man was in the trenches. He was obsessed. He was yearning. He was writing love declarations that could probably alter my brain chemistry.
Was it a little fast for my personal favourite kind of slow-burn suffering? Yes. I am, unfortunately, a masochist who likes to be dragged through emotional glass for a bit longer, but Tom being almost love-at-first-sight levels gone for her was still incredibly swoony, and it suited the intensity of the story.
I also really loved the side characters here. Pepper was such a standout for me: fiercely loyal, funny, and protective, exactly the kind of friend you want in your corner when the world is being awful.
And Solana was such a good little sister. I loved that when Raina was too hurt or angry to think clearly, Solana often stepped in as that voice of reason without ever making Raina feel small. That dynamic felt really lovely and grounded.
Raina’s parents, though? Hmm...Interesting is definitely the word. Her mum and I were not friends, let’s just say that. Her dad felt more redeemable to me, and honestly read as though he may well be neurodivergent himself, which added an interesting layer to how he related to Raina. But her mum? Yeah… no. She irritated me deeply.
And then there's Seb and Ottie, who I can only describe as deeply despicable people. Absolutely foul. I support the idea that they should now be unhappily married to each other as punishment because, truly, what else do they deserve?
One thing I found really interesting was the parallel between Tom and his awful friends and Matt and his awful friends. Both men are surrounded by people who treat Raina badly, but the difference is in what they do. Matt lets it happen. Matt prioritises fitting in. Matt hurts her. Tom, on the other hand, put Raina first. And that contrast was one of the strongest parts of the book for me. Because it’s not about what kind of people you’re around; it’s whether you choose cowardice or love.
And when the inevitable betrayal/break-up happened? Oh...I knew it was coming, but it still hurt. What saved it for me, though, was how Tom worked to win her back. Not in some lazy grand gesture way, but in a way that actually showed thought and care and understanding.
Tom buying tickets to the Mondays so that her fans, and more importantly, her parents, who hadn’t really ever supported her properly, would be there to see her success? Him buying her the Liberty shoes she loved for the occasion? Him sending messages through Solana because he knew he wasn’t welcome? Sorry, that is ROMANCE.
That whole section was great because it wasn’t just “man says sorry, woman forgives him.” It felt like Tom was trying to prove that he saw her, that he valued her work, that he respected what mattered to her, and that he wanted to celebrate her even if he got nothing out of it.
And then there’s this:
That is actually insane behaviour, and I support it fully.
100% my favourite line of Tom’s in the entire book.
The spicy scenes were fine for me. They didn’t really make or break the book either way. They were there, they worked, but the real heart of the story for me was always in the emotional intimacy, the understanding, the banter, the tenderness under all that bite.
And the banter really was so good throughout.
Overall, Unapologetic Love Story was bold, romantic, clever, angry, tender, and deeply, deeply readable. It felt like a natural step into adult romance for Elle McNicoll, while still carrying everything I’ve loved about her writing before, especially her ability to write autistic women with complexity, dignity, humour and absolute bite.
The only reason this wasn’t 5 stars for me is that the romance moved faster than my personally preferred level of emotional torment, as I do love my yearning dragged out just a tiny bit longer, but that said, I still had such a good time with this. Raina was incredible, Tom was feral for her in a way I enjoyed immensely, and the whole thing had so much heart.
So, thank you very much to Pan Macmillan for the proof, and may we all continue to be as “unapologetic" as Raina.
And I’m leaving you with one of my absolute favourite lines because it says everything about the heart of this book:
Elle McNicoll writing an adult romance . I was so ready for it. I’m happy to say that Unapologetic Love Story really delivered. It was sharp, funny, romantic, and angry in all the right ways. It felt so true to Elle’s style, especially in how she writes autistic womanhood with real depth, rage, humour, and heart.
First things first: Raina Lewis is THAT girl. She’s confident, stylish, biting, vulnerable underneath it all, and completely unwilling to shrink herself to make other people comfortable. And honestly? I loved her for that immediately. There is something about the way Elle writes autistic female protagonists that feels so real. Not polished or sanitised. Not written to be palatable. Just...real. And Raina absolutely embodies that.
“Autistic women, in the narrow corners of these people’s minds, weren’t supposed to be successful. They weren’t supposed to be attractive. They weren’t supposed to be colourful, or stylish, or someone who could draw attention and take up space.LIKE...YES, EXACTLY!!! That is the energy of this whole book. Raina is not here to be digestible. She is here to take up space, challenge people’s assumptions, and look incredible while doing it.
Raina liked it that way. She liked upending whatever they thought.”
And because this is Elle, the book is also infinitely quotable . Genuinely, every five pages, I was like, “Excuse me?! I need to highlight that before I combust.”
The autism rep here hit so hard for me, too. There’s so much truth in the way Raina moves through the world, in the exhaustion of being misunderstood, in the anger of having other people define autism for you, and in the deep ache of wanting connection while knowing how often the world gets it wrong.
“There were bound to be girls like her listening. Girls who worked hard at processing a world that was sometimes not processable for them in the slightest…Girls who felt that they were just the wrong kind of girl.”That one? Straight to the chest. Elle just has this way of writing lines that don’t feel performative or over-explained. They just land.
And Raina’s speech was incredible. I loved how unapologetic she was; how she refused to let autism be framed as a tragedy or burden or some cautionary tale for neurotypical people.
“I’d like you all to forget everything that you think you know about autistic women… Don’t listen to it. It’s a crock of shit.”Now let’s talk about Tom Branimir because this man was DOWN BAD almost immediately, and I ate it up. This is very much a “he fell first, he fell hard, he never recovered” situation, and Tom spends a huge chunk of this book absolutely gone for Raina. The man is fighting for his life from the second she verbally destroys him, and I had the time of my life watching it happen.
Their first interactions were SO good because Raina is not remotely impressed by him at first, and rightfully so.
“It’s just…I heard you suffer with a disability yourself.”I’m sorry, but I SNORTED. She gathered him so effortlessly. And deservedly! But what I liked is that Tom isn’t written as perfect from the start: he messes up; he has blind spots; he says the wrong thing. But he learns; he listens; he pays attention to Raina, to her needs, to the shape of her world, and that made the romance work for me.
You dick, why did you say it like that?
“I don’t suffer from anything, Mr. Branimir. Not until this moment, at least.”
Tom is basically hopeless when it comes to her, and while yes, the romance develops quite quickly, I can’t even be mad because the man was in the trenches. He was obsessed. He was yearning. He was writing love declarations that could probably alter my brain chemistry.
“You’re like spring to me.”
“How am I supposed to go back to life before you? I used to breathe oxygen, now it’s just you.”
“Raina, you’re not a holiday. You’re like my homeland.”ELLE, YOU CANNOT DO THIS TO ME.
Was it a little fast for my personal favourite kind of slow-burn suffering? Yes. I am, unfortunately, a masochist who likes to be dragged through emotional glass for a bit longer, but Tom being almost love-at-first-sight levels gone for her was still incredibly swoony, and it suited the intensity of the story.
I also really loved the side characters here. Pepper was such a standout for me: fiercely loyal, funny, and protective, exactly the kind of friend you want in your corner when the world is being awful.
And Solana was such a good little sister. I loved that when Raina was too hurt or angry to think clearly, Solana often stepped in as that voice of reason without ever making Raina feel small. That dynamic felt really lovely and grounded.
Raina’s parents, though? Hmm...Interesting is definitely the word. Her mum and I were not friends, let’s just say that. Her dad felt more redeemable to me, and honestly read as though he may well be neurodivergent himself, which added an interesting layer to how he related to Raina. But her mum? Yeah… no. She irritated me deeply.
And then there's Seb and Ottie, who I can only describe as deeply despicable people. Absolutely foul. I support the idea that they should now be unhappily married to each other as punishment because, truly, what else do they deserve?
One thing I found really interesting was the parallel between Tom and his awful friends and Matt and his awful friends. Both men are surrounded by people who treat Raina badly, but the difference is in what they do. Matt lets it happen. Matt prioritises fitting in. Matt hurts her. Tom, on the other hand, put Raina first. And that contrast was one of the strongest parts of the book for me. Because it’s not about what kind of people you’re around; it’s whether you choose cowardice or love.
And when the inevitable betrayal/break-up happened? Oh...I knew it was coming, but it still hurt. What saved it for me, though, was how Tom worked to win her back. Not in some lazy grand gesture way, but in a way that actually showed thought and care and understanding.
Tom buying tickets to the Mondays so that her fans, and more importantly, her parents, who hadn’t really ever supported her properly, would be there to see her success? Him buying her the Liberty shoes she loved for the occasion? Him sending messages through Solana because he knew he wasn’t welcome? Sorry, that is ROMANCE.
That whole section was great because it wasn’t just “man says sorry, woman forgives him.” It felt like Tom was trying to prove that he saw her, that he valued her work, that he respected what mattered to her, and that he wanted to celebrate her even if he got nothing out of it.
And then there’s this:
“As long as I’m alive, I will never stop loving you, Raina. It’s in my fucking bones. Archaeologists will be able to see you etched in me.”EXCUSE ME??? I beg your finest pardon???
That is actually insane behaviour, and I support it fully.
100% my favourite line of Tom’s in the entire book.
The spicy scenes were fine for me. They didn’t really make or break the book either way. They were there, they worked, but the real heart of the story for me was always in the emotional intimacy, the understanding, the banter, the tenderness under all that bite.
And the banter really was so good throughout.
“I’m working on a collection of my… uh—”
“Assassinations?”
“No,” Raina said firmly. “He’s my stalker.”
“His little Dictaphone thing hasn’t come out once since we started sleeping together.”I mean… come on. Elite.
“Uh huh. Thinking with his dick instead of his Dictaphone. Fine.”
Overall, Unapologetic Love Story was bold, romantic, clever, angry, tender, and deeply, deeply readable. It felt like a natural step into adult romance for Elle McNicoll, while still carrying everything I’ve loved about her writing before, especially her ability to write autistic women with complexity, dignity, humour and absolute bite.
The only reason this wasn’t 5 stars for me is that the romance moved faster than my personally preferred level of emotional torment, as I do love my yearning dragged out just a tiny bit longer, but that said, I still had such a good time with this. Raina was incredible, Tom was feral for her in a way I enjoyed immensely, and the whole thing had so much heart.
So, thank you very much to Pan Macmillan for the proof, and may we all continue to be as “unapologetic" as Raina.
And I’m leaving you with one of my absolute favourite lines because it says everything about the heart of this book:
“Until then, stay uninspiring.”
May 14, 2026
A heartwarming and beautiful tale of love and acceptance. As an adult who received late diagnosis of AuADHD I could relate to so much of what Raina has been through whilst also learning so much more, autism and neurodiversity is a spectrum of experience. I loved her and Tom as a couple and was rooting for them throughout. The story was full of love, laughter, heartbreak and joy.
April 10, 2026
I love Elle McNicholl’s books. I have for years. But I have to admit, this one was a struggle. It wasn’t the story itself, or the relationship (which was fantastic), or the characters (who I loved). It was the comments and overall hate that the bad characters gave Raina for being autistic.
I’ve found this in McNicholl’s books before. She does like to include stuff that’s not very nice that’s said about us, so that she can rebuff it. Which I understand completely. But as an autistic person who has trauma from that sort of thing, it really really hurts. This book especially had an awful lot of it. And I just found it very distressing. It really upset my enjoyment of the book.
It was still a really well done story. The romance had me rooting for the main characters so much. I really loved their different characters and their romance together. There was lot to love about this book. But it was just overshadowed so much for me by the horrible comments that Raina was getting from all the Neurotypicals around her.
I’m still a huge fan of Elle McNicholl. And I still want to keep reading her books. But if there’s another one as hard to get through as this, I might have to rethink that for my own wellbeing.
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Cross-posted to thewhisperingofthepages.co.uk
I’ve found this in McNicholl’s books before. She does like to include stuff that’s not very nice that’s said about us, so that she can rebuff it. Which I understand completely. But as an autistic person who has trauma from that sort of thing, it really really hurts. This book especially had an awful lot of it. And I just found it very distressing. It really upset my enjoyment of the book.
It was still a really well done story. The romance had me rooting for the main characters so much. I really loved their different characters and their romance together. There was lot to love about this book. But it was just overshadowed so much for me by the horrible comments that Raina was getting from all the Neurotypicals around her.
I’m still a huge fan of Elle McNicholl. And I still want to keep reading her books. But if there’s another one as hard to get through as this, I might have to rethink that for my own wellbeing.
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Cross-posted to thewhisperingofthepages.co.uk
March 11, 2026
Unapologetic Love Story is genuinely a masterclass in romance writing and I was hooked from the very first page. I absolutely LOVE a neurospicy protagonist and Raina is impossible not to adore. She’s witty, honest, funny, passionate, and just so unapologetically (pun intended 😏) herself. By the time I’d finished the first chapter I was already completely emotionally invested in her happiness.
The autism representation here is fantastic. It never feels like a trope or a plot device - it’s simply a natural, deeply woven part of who Raina is. Her voice feels authentic, thoughtful, and full of heart, which made reading from her perspective such a joy.
And Tom…listen - I am WEAK for a man who falls first and falls HARD. Tom Branimir took one look at Raina and basically swan dived into devotion. He’s curious about her mind, fascinated by the way she sees the world, and so determined to understand her rather than change her. His love language is essentially just Raina, and honestly that had me completely melting.
Elle has such a magnificent way with words, I think i highlighted half of the book. Some of the quotes had me genuinely pausing because they felt so intensely romantic they could have walked straight out of a Brontë novel. It was funny and cute in places but then in others it was sweeping, aching, almost gothic level of devotion that makes your chest hurt a little?! Crazy work Elle. Truly 👏
It’s romantic, messy, funny, and deeply heartfelt all at once. I couldn’t put it down and honestly didn’t want it to end.
If you love romances where the characters actually feel real, where the love story grows from mutual respect and fascination, and where the heroine gets to be bold, brilliant, and completely herself - this one is going to steal your heart 💖
The autism representation here is fantastic. It never feels like a trope or a plot device - it’s simply a natural, deeply woven part of who Raina is. Her voice feels authentic, thoughtful, and full of heart, which made reading from her perspective such a joy.
And Tom…listen - I am WEAK for a man who falls first and falls HARD. Tom Branimir took one look at Raina and basically swan dived into devotion. He’s curious about her mind, fascinated by the way she sees the world, and so determined to understand her rather than change her. His love language is essentially just Raina, and honestly that had me completely melting.
Elle has such a magnificent way with words, I think i highlighted half of the book. Some of the quotes had me genuinely pausing because they felt so intensely romantic they could have walked straight out of a Brontë novel. It was funny and cute in places but then in others it was sweeping, aching, almost gothic level of devotion that makes your chest hurt a little?! Crazy work Elle. Truly 👏
It’s romantic, messy, funny, and deeply heartfelt all at once. I couldn’t put it down and honestly didn’t want it to end.
If you love romances where the characters actually feel real, where the love story grows from mutual respect and fascination, and where the heroine gets to be bold, brilliant, and completely herself - this one is going to steal your heart 💖
April 14, 2026
I just finished reading Unapologetic Love Story by @ellemcnicollofficial ✨
Since I don't want to forget my thoughts afterward I decided to jot them down directly, 5 minutes after I closed the book.
There might be tangents and it's not well-structured AND English isn't my native language so please bear with me 🙇♀️
⚠️MIGHT CONTAIN SPOLIERS⚠️
I want to start this post by saying that this is definitely my favourite book of 2026 and one of my favourite books by Elle.
I've been in a long book slump and have been DNFing books for a few months now, until I read Unapologetic Love Story. I enjoyed every bit of this book - hmmm well the third-act breakup has my body tensing and has me sobbing but it's because it's so well written...
*I mostly dislike thrid-act breakups and always avoid reading them, but this one is well built and seemed necessary for the story even though it has made me so sad.*
I just want to say that I LOVE RAINA so, so much.
When we read MF romance, we are often searchng for a cute book boyfriend in it if that makes sense - BUT my full focus was definitely on Raina.
While I don't relate to every part of Raina's neurodivergence, I still found her so relatable and adore her personality. As some other readers said, I would love to have a big sister like Raina...!
I especially relate to the part of being a neurodivergent self-advocate and trying to help other NDs adore themselves while feeling super frustrated and angry with myself when I have meltdowns/shutdowns... etc.
I also relate to Raina's wanting to see the good in people (& empathising with others) even when they're being mean... but I also feel sad for Raina while reading because - most of the time, people won't do the same for us, they seldom be as accepting and kind towards NDs when we don't act as they expected as almost immediately deem as "rude", "weird", "apathy"...
To be honest, I was a bit scared of Raina's best friend Pepper, as I was afraid she might walk away from Raina when she most needed her, or might actually laugh at her... but I'm glad it isn't the case ✨
I also adore the sisters (Raina's and Tom's) they are soooo supportive as well!
I was while reading and still am angry with Tome's ex-"friends", especially Ottie - she doesn't deserve Raina's kindness 💔 (while I might have tried to comfort Ottie in that situation, I might quickly give up because of my severe RSD...)
Also the love between Raina and Tom... I just LOVE the 2 of them together! They are so sweet together... 💖💖💖
I have aphantasia so I generally can't really imagine anything in my head when I read, but Elle's writing is so detailed and beautiful it makes me visualise fragments of Raina and Tom, their smiles, their laughing together, also the supermarket shutdown scene...
I was CRYING when I read the scene with Zailey.
In my self-advocacy journey, there are many moments I want to give up, and there are many moments I feel burnt-out and I can't even take care of myself anymore.
There are MANY moments I doubt if my words, if what I'm trying to share could actually get to the people who need them, or if they could actually help anyone.
Like Raina (and I think many ND writers/self-advocates have gone through this too), I've been criticised, doubted, laughed at... etc.
However, if there were anyone, even if there were ONLY 1 person, who feels encouraged/understood/soothed/less alone because of our words, it would be worth it.
So I was SO touched when I read the passage about Zailey... 😭
While I was reading this story, from the very start, I felt a very complicated feeling deep inside me.
I'm SO glad that Elle has written this book and feel so seen and so empowered by Elle's writing and Raina's existence; however, I was also (still) grieving the fact that such wonderful fiction might not be possible to be published in Taiwan.
I have been feeling very upset about the difficulties of getting published as a ND writer in Taiwan, so I've been thinking about this when I read this book.
The level of authenticity might not be easily accepted/understood by NT readers in Taiwan - people are too used to the savant stories, the "severely disabled" stories, or the "disabled people could only side characters" sort of view.
But I'm glad that at least A Kind Of Spark has been translated in Taiwan! ✨
Ohhh and also the oppressing scene from Pepper's birthday party reminded me of the "Are you having a meltdown Addie?" scene from AKOS the series...!
It was a bit triggering, but also VERY realistic.
(I will translate this post into Traditional Chinese and share it on my other accounts with more viewers, hoping that some publishing house might read it and decide to translate Unapologetic Love Story into Traditional Chinese!)
Anyways, I just want to say that I absolutely ADORED Unapologetic Love Story.
Thank you so much Elle for having written this wonderful book.
Hopefully one day I will be able to share a translated version of this book to people who might not be able to read its original version 💖
Original review on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/p/DW6z6CfjNol/
Since I don't want to forget my thoughts afterward I decided to jot them down directly, 5 minutes after I closed the book.
There might be tangents and it's not well-structured AND English isn't my native language so please bear with me 🙇♀️
⚠️MIGHT CONTAIN SPOLIERS⚠️
I want to start this post by saying that this is definitely my favourite book of 2026 and one of my favourite books by Elle.
I've been in a long book slump and have been DNFing books for a few months now, until I read Unapologetic Love Story. I enjoyed every bit of this book - hmmm well the third-act breakup has my body tensing and has me sobbing but it's because it's so well written...
*I mostly dislike thrid-act breakups and always avoid reading them, but this one is well built and seemed necessary for the story even though it has made me so sad.*
I just want to say that I LOVE RAINA so, so much.
When we read MF romance, we are often searchng for a cute book boyfriend in it if that makes sense - BUT my full focus was definitely on Raina.
While I don't relate to every part of Raina's neurodivergence, I still found her so relatable and adore her personality. As some other readers said, I would love to have a big sister like Raina...!
I especially relate to the part of being a neurodivergent self-advocate and trying to help other NDs adore themselves while feeling super frustrated and angry with myself when I have meltdowns/shutdowns... etc.
I also relate to Raina's wanting to see the good in people (& empathising with others) even when they're being mean... but I also feel sad for Raina while reading because - most of the time, people won't do the same for us, they seldom be as accepting and kind towards NDs when we don't act as they expected as almost immediately deem as "rude", "weird", "apathy"...
To be honest, I was a bit scared of Raina's best friend Pepper, as I was afraid she might walk away from Raina when she most needed her, or might actually laugh at her... but I'm glad it isn't the case ✨
I also adore the sisters (Raina's and Tom's) they are soooo supportive as well!
I was while reading and still am angry with Tome's ex-"friends", especially Ottie - she doesn't deserve Raina's kindness 💔 (while I might have tried to comfort Ottie in that situation, I might quickly give up because of my severe RSD...)
Also the love between Raina and Tom... I just LOVE the 2 of them together! They are so sweet together... 💖💖💖
I have aphantasia so I generally can't really imagine anything in my head when I read, but Elle's writing is so detailed and beautiful it makes me visualise fragments of Raina and Tom, their smiles, their laughing together, also the supermarket shutdown scene...
I was CRYING when I read the scene with Zailey.
In my self-advocacy journey, there are many moments I want to give up, and there are many moments I feel burnt-out and I can't even take care of myself anymore.
There are MANY moments I doubt if my words, if what I'm trying to share could actually get to the people who need them, or if they could actually help anyone.
Like Raina (and I think many ND writers/self-advocates have gone through this too), I've been criticised, doubted, laughed at... etc.
However, if there were anyone, even if there were ONLY 1 person, who feels encouraged/understood/soothed/less alone because of our words, it would be worth it.
So I was SO touched when I read the passage about Zailey... 😭
While I was reading this story, from the very start, I felt a very complicated feeling deep inside me.
I'm SO glad that Elle has written this book and feel so seen and so empowered by Elle's writing and Raina's existence; however, I was also (still) grieving the fact that such wonderful fiction might not be possible to be published in Taiwan.
I have been feeling very upset about the difficulties of getting published as a ND writer in Taiwan, so I've been thinking about this when I read this book.
The level of authenticity might not be easily accepted/understood by NT readers in Taiwan - people are too used to the savant stories, the "severely disabled" stories, or the "disabled people could only side characters" sort of view.
But I'm glad that at least A Kind Of Spark has been translated in Taiwan! ✨
Ohhh and also the oppressing scene from Pepper's birthday party reminded me of the "Are you having a meltdown Addie?" scene from AKOS the series...!
It was a bit triggering, but also VERY realistic.
(I will translate this post into Traditional Chinese and share it on my other accounts with more viewers, hoping that some publishing house might read it and decide to translate Unapologetic Love Story into Traditional Chinese!)
Anyways, I just want to say that I absolutely ADORED Unapologetic Love Story.
Thank you so much Elle for having written this wonderful book.
Hopefully one day I will be able to share a translated version of this book to people who might not be able to read its original version 💖
Original review on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/p/DW6z6CfjNol/
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