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Lovesick
A raw, honest and distinctive novel that dissects the heartbreak, passion, insecurity, obsession, betrayal and joy of modern relationships. For readers of Sally Rooney, Jacqueline Maley, Diana Reid and anyone who has experienced love or heartache in equal measure.
'Do you think much about love? About how abrupt it is,' she asked. Gabby hooked her arm through his and stretched on her toes to kiss him. His mouth was dry; she tasted like rainwater. It occurred to Gordon that she was a shadow he might not be able to catch.
Two lonely lives collide on a drug-fuelled night out in Brisbane's West End. Gabby and Gordon, both lovesick and haunted by childhood wounds, find solace in each other's arms. But the passion that brings them together isn't enough in the face of insecurity, jealousy and grief.
In the wake of the intense and turbulent act of falling in - and out - of love, other relationships in their lives start to crumble. How far can Gabby and Gordon push each other, and everyone else they love, before they lose their way back?
'Do you think much about love? About how abrupt it is,' she asked. Gabby hooked her arm through his and stretched on her toes to kiss him. His mouth was dry; she tasted like rainwater. It occurred to Gordon that she was a shadow he might not be able to catch.
Two lonely lives collide on a drug-fuelled night out in Brisbane's West End. Gabby and Gordon, both lovesick and haunted by childhood wounds, find solace in each other's arms. But the passion that brings them together isn't enough in the face of insecurity, jealousy and grief.
In the wake of the intense and turbulent act of falling in - and out - of love, other relationships in their lives start to crumble. How far can Gabby and Gordon push each other, and everyone else they love, before they lose their way back?
286 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 1, 2026
About the author
Lillian Telford
1 book6 followersLillian Telford is an Australian writer from Meanjin (Brisbane) whose work has been published in a range of literary magazines and anthologies, including Corella Press, Urinal Magazine, Island and Bowen Street Press. She has been shortlisted for the Glendower Award in the Queensland Literary Awards twice. Lovesick is her first novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
June 22, 2026
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Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Tropes & Themes: Messy relationships and friendships, complex family dynamics, heartbreak, passion, contemporary fiction, toxic relationships, hurt and comfort.
Trigger Warnings: Miscarriage, domestic violence, drug use.
Thank you so much to HQ & Harper Collins Australia for sending me a gorgeous proof copy in exchange for an honest review!
Lovesick by Lillian Telford is an exquisite, heartbreaking debut that explores the depths of love, loss, and the messiness of human relationships. It's a story about heartbreak in all its forms - romantic, familial, and personal - and about finding yourself again after everything falls apart. You may emerge a little broken, but ultimately stronger and more certain of who you are.
I have never read a book that made me reflect so deeply on love and dating. It left me unexpectedly emotional, prompting me to consider my own experiences in ways few books ever have. Although there is hope and healing by the end, the journey there is filled with heartbreak, grief, loneliness, difficult choices, and the painful reality that love alone isn't always enough. The story unfolds through dual timelines and dual perspectives, following Gabby and Gordon from the beginning of their relationship to its devastating aftermath. Their story begins with a chance meeting on a drunken night out that quickly grows into a relationship that feels perfect - as though they've finally found what they've both been missing.
The novel opens in the present with Gabby grieving the loss of the love of her life, while Gordon's chapters take us back to the early days of their romance. It takes a few chapters to settle into the structure, but once I did, I couldn't imagine the story being told any other way. The entire time, I found myself waiting for the moment everything fell apart, searching for someone to blame or a defining event that caused the end of their relationship. But the most heartbreaking revelation is that there is no villain. There is no singular event, no one person at fault - just two people who love each other deeply while fighting battles within themselves.
Telford's writing truly shines in the emotional depth she brings to both characters, particularly through their inner monologues. Gabby's perspective resonated with me most. Having experienced a recent breakup that left me feeling as though my world was ending, I found her portrayal of modern heartbreak painfully real. The loneliness, the confusion, the desperate attempts to fill the void left behind, and the terrible decisions made in the aftermath of loss are captured with remarkable honesty. Gabby's choices, driven by grief and isolation, may be frustrating or difficult to understand at times, but they also make her feel incredibly authentic. She is a woman in mourning, doing whatever she can to survive the emptiness.
This is very much a character-driven and emotionally focused story, which may not work for every reader, but I was genuinely surprised by just how deeply it moved me. Lovesick isn't a book I would normally gravitate towards, and after finishing it, I'm almost embarrassed to admit how little contemporary fiction and romance I've read. This novel has completely shifted my perspective on the genre and left me craving more stories like it.
Ultimately, Lovesick is a beautifully honest portrayal of modern love in all its complexity - messy, passionate, heartbreaking, and hopeful. It reminds us that there doesn't always have to be a villain or a single moment that changes things; sometimes, relationships end because people are hurting in ways they don't yet know how to heal. It's a story that will stay with me for a long time, and one I know I'll return to whenever I need a reminder that even after heartbreak, there is still a way forward.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Tropes & Themes: Messy relationships and friendships, complex family dynamics, heartbreak, passion, contemporary fiction, toxic relationships, hurt and comfort.
Trigger Warnings: Miscarriage, domestic violence, drug use.
Thank you so much to HQ & Harper Collins Australia for sending me a gorgeous proof copy in exchange for an honest review!
Lovesick by Lillian Telford is an exquisite, heartbreaking debut that explores the depths of love, loss, and the messiness of human relationships. It's a story about heartbreak in all its forms - romantic, familial, and personal - and about finding yourself again after everything falls apart. You may emerge a little broken, but ultimately stronger and more certain of who you are.
I have never read a book that made me reflect so deeply on love and dating. It left me unexpectedly emotional, prompting me to consider my own experiences in ways few books ever have. Although there is hope and healing by the end, the journey there is filled with heartbreak, grief, loneliness, difficult choices, and the painful reality that love alone isn't always enough. The story unfolds through dual timelines and dual perspectives, following Gabby and Gordon from the beginning of their relationship to its devastating aftermath. Their story begins with a chance meeting on a drunken night out that quickly grows into a relationship that feels perfect - as though they've finally found what they've both been missing.
The novel opens in the present with Gabby grieving the loss of the love of her life, while Gordon's chapters take us back to the early days of their romance. It takes a few chapters to settle into the structure, but once I did, I couldn't imagine the story being told any other way. The entire time, I found myself waiting for the moment everything fell apart, searching for someone to blame or a defining event that caused the end of their relationship. But the most heartbreaking revelation is that there is no villain. There is no singular event, no one person at fault - just two people who love each other deeply while fighting battles within themselves.
Telford's writing truly shines in the emotional depth she brings to both characters, particularly through their inner monologues. Gabby's perspective resonated with me most. Having experienced a recent breakup that left me feeling as though my world was ending, I found her portrayal of modern heartbreak painfully real. The loneliness, the confusion, the desperate attempts to fill the void left behind, and the terrible decisions made in the aftermath of loss are captured with remarkable honesty. Gabby's choices, driven by grief and isolation, may be frustrating or difficult to understand at times, but they also make her feel incredibly authentic. She is a woman in mourning, doing whatever she can to survive the emptiness.
This is very much a character-driven and emotionally focused story, which may not work for every reader, but I was genuinely surprised by just how deeply it moved me. Lovesick isn't a book I would normally gravitate towards, and after finishing it, I'm almost embarrassed to admit how little contemporary fiction and romance I've read. This novel has completely shifted my perspective on the genre and left me craving more stories like it.
Ultimately, Lovesick is a beautifully honest portrayal of modern love in all its complexity - messy, passionate, heartbreaking, and hopeful. It reminds us that there doesn't always have to be a villain or a single moment that changes things; sometimes, relationships end because people are hurting in ways they don't yet know how to heal. It's a story that will stay with me for a long time, and one I know I'll return to whenever I need a reminder that even after heartbreak, there is still a way forward.
June 26, 2026
Not a traditional love story, but a love story nonetheless. A story centred around Gabby and Gordon, who find a resonating comfort in each other
When a joint trauma breaks them apart, they both deal with the grief in their own unique way, causing a ripple effect to the other person.
Amplified with complications from other friendships and family, is their feelings for each other enough to survive jealousy, trauma and heartbreak.
It’s raw, unapologetic and at times confronting. Telford has an amazing way with words, and touches on tough, dark themes in a poignant way
I found the time shift at times a bit jarring, and while it was hard to jell with the main characters, I couldn’t put the book down until I knew how the story was going to end
Thank you so much HQ Insiders for my gifted review copy. I am very excited to see what Telford writes next
When a joint trauma breaks them apart, they both deal with the grief in their own unique way, causing a ripple effect to the other person.
Amplified with complications from other friendships and family, is their feelings for each other enough to survive jealousy, trauma and heartbreak.
It’s raw, unapologetic and at times confronting. Telford has an amazing way with words, and touches on tough, dark themes in a poignant way
I found the time shift at times a bit jarring, and while it was hard to jell with the main characters, I couldn’t put the book down until I knew how the story was going to end
Thank you so much HQ Insiders for my gifted review copy. I am very excited to see what Telford writes next
May 30, 2026
Review of an ARC recvd from publisher.
3 ⭐️
I spent most of this book admiring it.
Lovesick is marketed as a love story, but it feels much more like a novel about attachment. About the people we build ourselves around. About grief, friendship, obsession, family and the stories we tell ourselves about the people we love.
The strongest aspect for me was the writing. Lillian Telford has a sharp eye for emotional detail and a real talent for capturing the strange contradictions that exist inside relationships. Gabby's chapters were easily my favourite. Her friendship with Róisín often felt more emotionally charged and interesting than the central romance, and those sections carried a lot of the novel's emotional weight.
What stopped this becoming a higher-rated read for me was the balance between introspection and momentum. The novel spends a lot of time inside its characters' heads, unpacking their feelings, memories and anxieties. Sometimes this led to genuinely insightful moments. Other times I found myself wishing the story would move forward rather than continue analysing itself.
The characters are complex and intentionally flawed, which I appreciated, but I never became fully invested in them. I understood them more than I connected with them. By the end, I felt like I'd spent a lot of time examining their emotional lives without becoming particularly attached to either of them.
That said, I can absolutely see why this is finding its audience. Readers who loved Cleopatra and Frankenstein, Sally Rooney or character-driven literary fiction that prioritises emotional complexity over plot will probably get far more out of this than I did.
A thoughtful, well-written novel that gave me plenty to think about, even if it never quite got under my skin.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Australia for the opportunity to review this book.
3 ⭐️
I spent most of this book admiring it.
Lovesick is marketed as a love story, but it feels much more like a novel about attachment. About the people we build ourselves around. About grief, friendship, obsession, family and the stories we tell ourselves about the people we love.
The strongest aspect for me was the writing. Lillian Telford has a sharp eye for emotional detail and a real talent for capturing the strange contradictions that exist inside relationships. Gabby's chapters were easily my favourite. Her friendship with Róisín often felt more emotionally charged and interesting than the central romance, and those sections carried a lot of the novel's emotional weight.
What stopped this becoming a higher-rated read for me was the balance between introspection and momentum. The novel spends a lot of time inside its characters' heads, unpacking their feelings, memories and anxieties. Sometimes this led to genuinely insightful moments. Other times I found myself wishing the story would move forward rather than continue analysing itself.
The characters are complex and intentionally flawed, which I appreciated, but I never became fully invested in them. I understood them more than I connected with them. By the end, I felt like I'd spent a lot of time examining their emotional lives without becoming particularly attached to either of them.
That said, I can absolutely see why this is finding its audience. Readers who loved Cleopatra and Frankenstein, Sally Rooney or character-driven literary fiction that prioritises emotional complexity over plot will probably get far more out of this than I did.
A thoughtful, well-written novel that gave me plenty to think about, even if it never quite got under my skin.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Australia for the opportunity to review this book.
June 30, 2026
Well this was quite the debut!
Gordon & Gabby
The story is told from their perspectives flicking from past to present, at the start I found this a little difficult to follow but got the hang of it and I was desperate to find out how this was going to end.
This is a story about heartbreak. The deep, heavy, sadness of heartbreak. It’s about how relationships structure our lives, who we become when we’re around people we love, decisions made, regrets and grief.
It’s so raw and messy, our characters are vulnerable, insecure, lonely and a little self destructing. There’s a lot of passion and heartbreak, as well as the need to be loved.
My heart broke for Gordon.
All that he felt. All the blame he felt. Agh that really hit me hard.
The writing style is unique, it’s lyrical and at times it felt like I was reading poetry. You can feel every single word on the page. It hurts, like it’s you going through it. There are some heavy themes that are written well and help you understand what the characters are going through.
Thank you @hqbooks @harpercollinsaustralia for the early copy!
Gordon & Gabby
The story is told from their perspectives flicking from past to present, at the start I found this a little difficult to follow but got the hang of it and I was desperate to find out how this was going to end.
This is a story about heartbreak. The deep, heavy, sadness of heartbreak. It’s about how relationships structure our lives, who we become when we’re around people we love, decisions made, regrets and grief.
It’s so raw and messy, our characters are vulnerable, insecure, lonely and a little self destructing. There’s a lot of passion and heartbreak, as well as the need to be loved.
My heart broke for Gordon.
All that he felt. All the blame he felt. Agh that really hit me hard.
The writing style is unique, it’s lyrical and at times it felt like I was reading poetry. You can feel every single word on the page. It hurts, like it’s you going through it. There are some heavy themes that are written well and help you understand what the characters are going through.
Thank you @hqbooks @harpercollinsaustralia for the early copy!
July 14, 2026
It was okay.
I think there were elements I loved and elements that annoyed me. I found the exploration of the best friend/boyfriend tension more gripping at times than the actual core relationship. I did not, at all, root for the best friend. Happy to be challenged on that.
I did appreciate the ripple effect of how Gordon’s mum “leaving the family” affected his own worldview, desires and fears. I think the author did a good job at highlighting the complexity of when women break the mothering contract. I am, however, reminded of that Laura Dern monologue in Marriage Story - we hold women to an impossibly high standard, and a much higher standard than men. Her abandoning the family is such a central vehicle of the narrative and validates this monologue.
I famously hate pop culture references in books and trust, there were a few. But it was honestly refreshing reading about Brisbane? It deserves more love.
Overall, a pretty neat book for a first time author.
I think there were elements I loved and elements that annoyed me. I found the exploration of the best friend/boyfriend tension more gripping at times than the actual core relationship. I did not, at all, root for the best friend. Happy to be challenged on that.
I did appreciate the ripple effect of how Gordon’s mum “leaving the family” affected his own worldview, desires and fears. I think the author did a good job at highlighting the complexity of when women break the mothering contract. I am, however, reminded of that Laura Dern monologue in Marriage Story - we hold women to an impossibly high standard, and a much higher standard than men. Her abandoning the family is such a central vehicle of the narrative and validates this monologue.
I famously hate pop culture references in books and trust, there were a few. But it was honestly refreshing reading about Brisbane? It deserves more love.
Overall, a pretty neat book for a first time author.
July 4, 2026
This was such a tragically beautiful read. Following Gabby and Gordon in a honest and open look at relationships and love. I loved the setting of Brisbane and west end being a local it’s so nice to read about a familiar setting. No matter how hard things seem it can change in a moment.
July 14, 2026
A beautifully honest portrayal of love in all its complicated, imperfect forms. What a stunning debut.
July 13, 2026
Lovesick had me looking back at my own past relationships like ohhh maybe that explains a lot.
soooo we follow Gabby and Gordon after they meet on a messy, drug fuelled night out in Brisbane. They fall for each other almost instantly but what I really loved is that the story doesn’t actually start there. It starts after they’ve already broken up.
The timeline jumps back and forth with Gordon’s chapters taking us through the beginning of their relationship and all those exciting first moments of falling in love and Gabby’s chapters follow her after everything has fallen apart as she tries to piece her life back together. I honestly lovvvved the way it was done because you’re watching this relationship bloom while already knowing it’s going to end and there’s this constant feeling of waiting for the moment everything goes wrong.
What really got me tho was how real it all felt. There isn’t one big fight or dramatic moment that tears them apart, Gabby and Gordon are just two people carrying around so much hurt from their childhoods like they’re both sooo scared of being abandoned and not feeling good enough that they end up hurting the one person they love the most without even realising it. it really shows how much we all bring into relationships without meaning to and sometimes loving someone just isn’t enough if you don’t know how to love yourself first or believe you’re worthy of it.
I also just loved the writing. There were a few times where I’d read a line and literally stop because it felt like the author had taken a thought straight out of my own head. Nothing about the heartbreak is romanticised either like its ugly and sometimes frustrating but that’s lowk why it felt so real
tbh Gabby can be hard to like at times. She’s grieving and makes some really frustrating choices, but none of it felt unrealistic. If anything it felt like a pretty honest look at what heartbreak can do to someone. allllsoooooo Gordon’s story broke my heart a lil more. Seeing how much his childhood and the abandonment from his mum shaped the way he loved people was honestly devastating. He carried around so much guilt that my heart just hurtssssss for him.
PLzzzz know that this isn't a light and fluffy romance. It’s heavy and it will make you feel things, but it’s so worth it. It’s an incredible debut and it just felt so honest and human. If you’re looking for a book that’s more about the messy, complicated truth of love and heartbreak, you need to read this.
Thankyou to HQ insiders for providing me with an arc <3 all thoughts are my own
soooo we follow Gabby and Gordon after they meet on a messy, drug fuelled night out in Brisbane. They fall for each other almost instantly but what I really loved is that the story doesn’t actually start there. It starts after they’ve already broken up.
The timeline jumps back and forth with Gordon’s chapters taking us through the beginning of their relationship and all those exciting first moments of falling in love and Gabby’s chapters follow her after everything has fallen apart as she tries to piece her life back together. I honestly lovvvved the way it was done because you’re watching this relationship bloom while already knowing it’s going to end and there’s this constant feeling of waiting for the moment everything goes wrong.
What really got me tho was how real it all felt. There isn’t one big fight or dramatic moment that tears them apart, Gabby and Gordon are just two people carrying around so much hurt from their childhoods like they’re both sooo scared of being abandoned and not feeling good enough that they end up hurting the one person they love the most without even realising it. it really shows how much we all bring into relationships without meaning to and sometimes loving someone just isn’t enough if you don’t know how to love yourself first or believe you’re worthy of it.
I also just loved the writing. There were a few times where I’d read a line and literally stop because it felt like the author had taken a thought straight out of my own head. Nothing about the heartbreak is romanticised either like its ugly and sometimes frustrating but that’s lowk why it felt so real
tbh Gabby can be hard to like at times. She’s grieving and makes some really frustrating choices, but none of it felt unrealistic. If anything it felt like a pretty honest look at what heartbreak can do to someone. allllsoooooo Gordon’s story broke my heart a lil more. Seeing how much his childhood and the abandonment from his mum shaped the way he loved people was honestly devastating. He carried around so much guilt that my heart just hurtssssss for him.
PLzzzz know that this isn't a light and fluffy romance. It’s heavy and it will make you feel things, but it’s so worth it. It’s an incredible debut and it just felt so honest and human. If you’re looking for a book that’s more about the messy, complicated truth of love and heartbreak, you need to read this.
Thankyou to HQ insiders for providing me with an arc <3 all thoughts are my own
July 3, 2026
Although romance is at the center of Lillian Telford’s Lovesick, I found myself thinking of it less as a romance and more as a coming-of-age story. This is a novel about first (real) loves, broken trust, betrayal, growing pains, of becoming. It understands that love, especially when you’re young, is rarely straightforward. Sometimes it teaches us tenderness, and disappointment. More often than not, it teaches us something about ourselves. There’s such honesty in the way Lillian Telford portrays that stage of life where every relationship feels like forever and every heartbreak feels permanent. Reading it from the perspective of someone who’s beyond that season of life, I could see the mistakes coming, wanted to warn the characters against them and yet recognised that some lessons simply cannot be borrowed from someone else’s experience.
One of the things I appreciated the most was how unapologetically flawed these characters are. No one is idealised. They are insecure, impulsive, selfish at times, deeply vulnerable at others. Their choices won’t always make sense and they certainly won’t always be the right ones but that’s exactly why they feel so real. I especially loved Gordon’s arc. There was something hopeful about the person he became by the end of the novel, especially when contrasted with the young man we first met. Gabby was equally compelling. She came across as someone you might actually know; someone still navigating adulthood while carrying the weight of expectations, insecurities and hope.
Lovesick isn’t built around a perfect meet-cute or a predictable happily-ever-after. Instead, it embraces the uncertainty of modern relationships, the miscommunication, the timing, the emotional immaturity, the messiness. It reveals the difficult truth that sometimes love alone isn’t enough. What stayed with me wasn’t necessarily the romance itself, but the way the novel understands that every relationship changes us, regardless of whether it lasts. Sometimes love succeeds. Sometimes it doesn’t. Either way, we leave it knowing ourselves a little better than before.
Thank you, @hqbooks and @lilliantelford_author for giving me a chance to read this in advance. 🥰
One of the things I appreciated the most was how unapologetically flawed these characters are. No one is idealised. They are insecure, impulsive, selfish at times, deeply vulnerable at others. Their choices won’t always make sense and they certainly won’t always be the right ones but that’s exactly why they feel so real. I especially loved Gordon’s arc. There was something hopeful about the person he became by the end of the novel, especially when contrasted with the young man we first met. Gabby was equally compelling. She came across as someone you might actually know; someone still navigating adulthood while carrying the weight of expectations, insecurities and hope.
Lovesick isn’t built around a perfect meet-cute or a predictable happily-ever-after. Instead, it embraces the uncertainty of modern relationships, the miscommunication, the timing, the emotional immaturity, the messiness. It reveals the difficult truth that sometimes love alone isn’t enough. What stayed with me wasn’t necessarily the romance itself, but the way the novel understands that every relationship changes us, regardless of whether it lasts. Sometimes love succeeds. Sometimes it doesn’t. Either way, we leave it knowing ourselves a little better than before.
Thank you, @hqbooks and @lilliantelford_author for giving me a chance to read this in advance. 🥰
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
3.5 ⭐️
“It’s far better to feel lonely on your own than when you’re with others.”
For all the Gen Z’s and anyone who has lived with a broken heart or had a friendship torn apart by jealousy, this is your 2026 must-read.
An exquisitely written debut novel, Lovesick explores the highs and lows of love, family, and friendship when your adult life is just beginning. Far from a love story that will end with champagne and roses this book is about obsession, grief, loss and loneliness.
Told in alternating chapters of the leading characters who meet on a drug-fuelled night out, Lovesick explores Gordon’s past and Gabby’s present and how their lives are affected when they collide.
I wanted to love this book, I really did, but I just could not connect with the characters. Some I actually detested. I think a lot of the problem is the niche audience this book was written for. I was experiencing first love before the age of Instagram stalking, drug-fuelled parties and smashed avocado for brunch.
The broken timeline made it almost impossible to pinpoint where in the story a chapter was taking place and I was frequently confused. And while the cast of characters was not particularly large understanding where they fit into the two timelines was also very difficult.
Despite these nitpicking complaints Lovesick really is a beautifully descriptive book and I do think Lillian Telford could eventually be a standout author.
*Thank you to HQ Insiders for this ARC in exchange for an honest review*
“It’s far better to feel lonely on your own than when you’re with others.”
For all the Gen Z’s and anyone who has lived with a broken heart or had a friendship torn apart by jealousy, this is your 2026 must-read.
An exquisitely written debut novel, Lovesick explores the highs and lows of love, family, and friendship when your adult life is just beginning. Far from a love story that will end with champagne and roses this book is about obsession, grief, loss and loneliness.
Told in alternating chapters of the leading characters who meet on a drug-fuelled night out, Lovesick explores Gordon’s past and Gabby’s present and how their lives are affected when they collide.
I wanted to love this book, I really did, but I just could not connect with the characters. Some I actually detested. I think a lot of the problem is the niche audience this book was written for. I was experiencing first love before the age of Instagram stalking, drug-fuelled parties and smashed avocado for brunch.
The broken timeline made it almost impossible to pinpoint where in the story a chapter was taking place and I was frequently confused. And while the cast of characters was not particularly large understanding where they fit into the two timelines was also very difficult.
Despite these nitpicking complaints Lovesick really is a beautifully descriptive book and I do think Lillian Telford could eventually be a standout author.
*Thank you to HQ Insiders for this ARC in exchange for an honest review*
June 19, 2026
3 STARS ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Vibe check: Messy Relationships, Emotionally Complicated Love
full review ⬇️
Lovesick is a love story but not the cheery rom-com type. It takes a much darker, more confronting look at relationships, attraction and the many forms love can take throughout our lives. It's less about finding love and more about examining it under a microscope from the good to the bad and the deeply unhealthy.
The book explores love in many forms from romantic relationships, friendships, family connections, grief, desire and toxic relationships. There's plenty to unpack and discuss and I think readers will go one way or another on this one.
One thing I really enjoyed was the writing style. This felt a bit like reading Dolly Alderton's work... but with more crass and less humour.
For me though, while the story had strong writing and interesting ideas, I never quite connected with it as much as I'd hoped.
The shifting timelines often left me confused, and it sometimes took a while to work out where a particular scene sat within the broader story. I also found the themes leaned heavily toward the darker and more destructive sides of love. While that's clearly intentional, I like my books to have a little more balance and light amongst the dysfunction.
If you enjoy literary contemporary fiction that explores complicated relationships, flawed people and the messier realities of love in a Sally Rooney type of style, this may be a lot more up your alley.
Thank you to HQ for sharing this with me.
Vibe check: Messy Relationships, Emotionally Complicated Love
full review ⬇️
Lovesick is a love story but not the cheery rom-com type. It takes a much darker, more confronting look at relationships, attraction and the many forms love can take throughout our lives. It's less about finding love and more about examining it under a microscope from the good to the bad and the deeply unhealthy.
The book explores love in many forms from romantic relationships, friendships, family connections, grief, desire and toxic relationships. There's plenty to unpack and discuss and I think readers will go one way or another on this one.
One thing I really enjoyed was the writing style. This felt a bit like reading Dolly Alderton's work... but with more crass and less humour.
For me though, while the story had strong writing and interesting ideas, I never quite connected with it as much as I'd hoped.
The shifting timelines often left me confused, and it sometimes took a while to work out where a particular scene sat within the broader story. I also found the themes leaned heavily toward the darker and more destructive sides of love. While that's clearly intentional, I like my books to have a little more balance and light amongst the dysfunction.
If you enjoy literary contemporary fiction that explores complicated relationships, flawed people and the messier realities of love in a Sally Rooney type of style, this may be a lot more up your alley.
Thank you to HQ for sharing this with me.
July 5, 2026
Lillian Telford’s debut novel, Lovesick, explores love, obsession, abandonment, addiction and heartbreak, exposing the emotional fractures of characters shaped by trauma.
When the lives of two lonely young people collide on a drug-fuelled night out in Brisbane’s West End, a relationship follows, but from the beginning of the novel, readers are made aware that it has already ended.
Gabby and Gordon have both experienced parental abandonment – Gabby through her parents’ emotional neglect and Gordon through the physical absence of his mother. Telford examines how these early wounds shape their adult relationships, rendering their connection deeply affecting and uncomfortably realistic. Told from both characters’ perspectives, the novel moves from past to present, making for a tense, emotionally charged story that pieces together what led to the unravelling of their relationship. Themes of loneliness, self-destructive behaviour and a persistent sense of unworthiness are explored with nuance, as both characters search for belonging and connection. Readers who have experienced heartache will likely recognise the emotional patterns at play and the damaging choices the pair continue to make.
The lines between love and lust blur as insecurities surface and difficult truths emerge. The question of whether Gabby and Gordon can find a way to heal and return to each other or remain trapped in these cycles drives the narrative forward.
Readers of Sally Rooney, Coco Mellors and Florence Knapp will find much to engage with in this emotionally charged debut.
When the lives of two lonely young people collide on a drug-fuelled night out in Brisbane’s West End, a relationship follows, but from the beginning of the novel, readers are made aware that it has already ended.
Gabby and Gordon have both experienced parental abandonment – Gabby through her parents’ emotional neglect and Gordon through the physical absence of his mother. Telford examines how these early wounds shape their adult relationships, rendering their connection deeply affecting and uncomfortably realistic. Told from both characters’ perspectives, the novel moves from past to present, making for a tense, emotionally charged story that pieces together what led to the unravelling of their relationship. Themes of loneliness, self-destructive behaviour and a persistent sense of unworthiness are explored with nuance, as both characters search for belonging and connection. Readers who have experienced heartache will likely recognise the emotional patterns at play and the damaging choices the pair continue to make.
The lines between love and lust blur as insecurities surface and difficult truths emerge. The question of whether Gabby and Gordon can find a way to heal and return to each other or remain trapped in these cycles drives the narrative forward.
Readers of Sally Rooney, Coco Mellors and Florence Knapp will find much to engage with in this emotionally charged debut.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
4.5 stars
A messy, honest and gruelling exploration of love and loss, in all their forms.
Gordon and Gabby meet on a night out and are drawn to one another through their shared experiences and longing for companionship. This book explores their turbulent relationship and how it impacts the development and state of others in their separate lives.
Lovesick was like a rich chocolate cake to me. I wanted to take my time, processing, appreciating and savouring every crumb of heartbreak Lillian gave us. It is not one to be rushed through by any means.
I loved the unfiltered and realistic portrayal of the characters’ lives, their individual trauma, and their journey from searching for answers to missing relationships to mending broken ones with themselves, others, and each other. Soulmate connections are rare to find, and reading about the bond between Róisín and Gabby, as volatile as it was, invoked a sense of nostalgia and heartache for similar ones I have shared and lost in my own life. I also loved the familiarity of the Melbourne locations when they were featured and the fleeting moments of girlhood we got to see between Greta and Gabby.
The prose was gorgeous and so powerfully depicted addiction to substances, destructive habits and people as a means of coping for these characters. I can’t believe this was a debut. If you love contemporary/ lit fic books that hit right down to your core, I need you to read this one right now. Ugh, beautiful.
Also: Chip belongs in the bin, and Adam was the MVP. That’s all.
Thank you HQ Australia for an ARC!
A messy, honest and gruelling exploration of love and loss, in all their forms.
Gordon and Gabby meet on a night out and are drawn to one another through their shared experiences and longing for companionship. This book explores their turbulent relationship and how it impacts the development and state of others in their separate lives.
Lovesick was like a rich chocolate cake to me. I wanted to take my time, processing, appreciating and savouring every crumb of heartbreak Lillian gave us. It is not one to be rushed through by any means.
I loved the unfiltered and realistic portrayal of the characters’ lives, their individual trauma, and their journey from searching for answers to missing relationships to mending broken ones with themselves, others, and each other. Soulmate connections are rare to find, and reading about the bond between Róisín and Gabby, as volatile as it was, invoked a sense of nostalgia and heartache for similar ones I have shared and lost in my own life. I also loved the familiarity of the Melbourne locations when they were featured and the fleeting moments of girlhood we got to see between Greta and Gabby.
The prose was gorgeous and so powerfully depicted addiction to substances, destructive habits and people as a means of coping for these characters. I can’t believe this was a debut. If you love contemporary/ lit fic books that hit right down to your core, I need you to read this one right now. Ugh, beautiful.
Also: Chip belongs in the bin, and Adam was the MVP. That’s all.
Thank you HQ Australia for an ARC!
July 6, 2026
Reading 'Lovesick' was akin to talking to a friend. Or two friends rather.
The relationship between Gabby and Gordon is introduced through a sparkly, sweaty night out. A chance encounter on a dancefloor in Brisbane. Telford's generosity grants us the perspectives of both characters in a twisted timeline, as their lives become increasingly entangled (Gordon) and detangled (Gabby). This way of approaching attachment and love—the ways people affect us—felt very fresh and timely. But it's more than just their relationship that is woven through their stories.
The traumas of Gabby and Gordon are introduced slowly but felt deeply. Their attachment to each other, and to the people around them, is made clearer as the text progresses. Telford's handling of complex family dynamics is done with care and warmth. Each experience loss in their own way, old, new, and imminent. I wanted to hold both of their hands as I read, a testament to Telford's wonderfully emotive prose.
I will say, however, that this prose acted as a blanket across the two characters, and in sharing, Gabby and Gordon are not quite able to fully shine as individuals. Maybe Telford is aiming for a reflection on the ways that two people can sometimes blend into one in relationships? Maybe not. Róisín felt the most distinct character for me! I'd like to hear more of her story...
An honest debut, sparing no detail of what it means to love and to be in love in the modern day.
I'd like to thank HQ Insiders for my advance readers copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The relationship between Gabby and Gordon is introduced through a sparkly, sweaty night out. A chance encounter on a dancefloor in Brisbane. Telford's generosity grants us the perspectives of both characters in a twisted timeline, as their lives become increasingly entangled (Gordon) and detangled (Gabby). This way of approaching attachment and love—the ways people affect us—felt very fresh and timely. But it's more than just their relationship that is woven through their stories.
The traumas of Gabby and Gordon are introduced slowly but felt deeply. Their attachment to each other, and to the people around them, is made clearer as the text progresses. Telford's handling of complex family dynamics is done with care and warmth. Each experience loss in their own way, old, new, and imminent. I wanted to hold both of their hands as I read, a testament to Telford's wonderfully emotive prose.
I will say, however, that this prose acted as a blanket across the two characters, and in sharing, Gabby and Gordon are not quite able to fully shine as individuals. Maybe Telford is aiming for a reflection on the ways that two people can sometimes blend into one in relationships? Maybe not. Róisín felt the most distinct character for me! I'd like to hear more of her story...
An honest debut, sparing no detail of what it means to love and to be in love in the modern day.
I'd like to thank HQ Insiders for my advance readers copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
3.25/5
‘Lovesick’ is undoubtedly a ‘right place, right time’ type of book, about two young adults finding their way back to each other after resolving their own personal traumas. Deeply relatable to those healing from heartbreak and family wounds, I found our two characters Gabby and Gordon very real in their personal struggles, and it made their love story feel even more palpable and like a safe refuge. I liked how Gabby’s struggles with loneliness and Gordon’s unresolved fears of abandonment were explored separately, and despite the dark turns, the story did feel incredibly healing by the end.
The writing felt reminiscent of Diana Reed and Sally Rooney, but I liked how the author really made this story her own by incorporating her home city and introducing more relationship dynamics, particularly with Gabby and her best friend. I will say, I think the ending felt a bit abrupt and unearned for our characters (especially Gabby) and I wish it was more fleshed out. The pace also slowed down during the middle third so I wish we skipped more of that and got more time in the conflict resolution phase instead.
But overall, I thought this was a strong debut and I’d definitely recommend it for those after a more slow-paced and introspective read about love, relationships, and family.
Thank you @HQfiction for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
‘Lovesick’ is undoubtedly a ‘right place, right time’ type of book, about two young adults finding their way back to each other after resolving their own personal traumas. Deeply relatable to those healing from heartbreak and family wounds, I found our two characters Gabby and Gordon very real in their personal struggles, and it made their love story feel even more palpable and like a safe refuge. I liked how Gabby’s struggles with loneliness and Gordon’s unresolved fears of abandonment were explored separately, and despite the dark turns, the story did feel incredibly healing by the end.
The writing felt reminiscent of Diana Reed and Sally Rooney, but I liked how the author really made this story her own by incorporating her home city and introducing more relationship dynamics, particularly with Gabby and her best friend. I will say, I think the ending felt a bit abrupt and unearned for our characters (especially Gabby) and I wish it was more fleshed out. The pace also slowed down during the middle third so I wish we skipped more of that and got more time in the conflict resolution phase instead.
But overall, I thought this was a strong debut and I’d definitely recommend it for those after a more slow-paced and introspective read about love, relationships, and family.
Thank you @HQfiction for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
June 26, 2026
Love sick by Lillian Telford is marketed as an insightful, tender portrait of modern love in all its messiness.
This story follows our Main Female Character Gabby & our co Main Male Character Gordon through dual POV’s in a past & present storyline which can be hard to get your head around. Gabby’s POV is present day & Gordon’s POV is the past. This story follows their love story in all of its heaviness & brokenness but essentially they find hope.
When grandma mentioned that to gabby that she was heartsick ugh that got me in the feels.
This book certainly had its messiness but in such an honest way. I would also add that it reminded me a lot of your early 20’s when you are trying to find out who you are as an adult, that in itself can be messy. To add toxic friendships/ relationships, trauma, difficult parental relationships both workaholic parents, absent parent & an avoidant parenting type, alcohol & drug use, grief & loss & early signs of domestic violence these essentially make up the perfect storm for having an impact on the characters mental health.
Despite the heavy topics I actually found this to be an easy read. As a reader I can understand that some could find these characters hard to relate too, unless you have similar lived experiences. As a Social Worker I found it really interesting to gain an insight into the deep & sometimes intrusive thoughts of the characters.
A huge thank you to HQ insiders for proving me with an early copy of Lovesick to review.
This story follows our Main Female Character Gabby & our co Main Male Character Gordon through dual POV’s in a past & present storyline which can be hard to get your head around. Gabby’s POV is present day & Gordon’s POV is the past. This story follows their love story in all of its heaviness & brokenness but essentially they find hope.
When grandma mentioned that to gabby that she was heartsick ugh that got me in the feels.
This book certainly had its messiness but in such an honest way. I would also add that it reminded me a lot of your early 20’s when you are trying to find out who you are as an adult, that in itself can be messy. To add toxic friendships/ relationships, trauma, difficult parental relationships both workaholic parents, absent parent & an avoidant parenting type, alcohol & drug use, grief & loss & early signs of domestic violence these essentially make up the perfect storm for having an impact on the characters mental health.
Despite the heavy topics I actually found this to be an easy read. As a reader I can understand that some could find these characters hard to relate too, unless you have similar lived experiences. As a Social Worker I found it really interesting to gain an insight into the deep & sometimes intrusive thoughts of the characters.
A huge thank you to HQ insiders for proving me with an early copy of Lovesick to review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
"I'm starting to think nostalgia is nothing but a sickness."
Lillian Telford's debut novel Lovesick is a story about heartbreak. At its core, it is an exploration of our relationships with others; how they shape and define us, distort and disrupt us, and often reveal parts of ourselves we may not wish to see. It is an authentic portrayal of love, grief, and longing.
Telford centres the novel around Gabby and Gordon. Both characters are messy, frustrating, inconsistent, and recognisably human. I personally felt less compelled by Gabby who occasionally felt more conventional than some of the novel's supporting cast.
There are many layered characters throughout the novel, and I often found the supporting cast more intriguing than the central pair. Meredith, Lily, and Roisin in particular stood out. We are given glimpses into their lives and motivations, but I would have happily spent more time with them.
One of the book's strengths, in my view, is its structure. The dual perspectives felt fresh and maintained my interest throughout, helping the story remain engaging from beginning to end.
Overall, I really enjoyed Lovesick and found it difficult to put down. I look forward to seeing what Telford writes next!
Lillian Telford's debut novel Lovesick is a story about heartbreak. At its core, it is an exploration of our relationships with others; how they shape and define us, distort and disrupt us, and often reveal parts of ourselves we may not wish to see. It is an authentic portrayal of love, grief, and longing.
Telford centres the novel around Gabby and Gordon. Both characters are messy, frustrating, inconsistent, and recognisably human. I personally felt less compelled by Gabby who occasionally felt more conventional than some of the novel's supporting cast.
There are many layered characters throughout the novel, and I often found the supporting cast more intriguing than the central pair. Meredith, Lily, and Roisin in particular stood out. We are given glimpses into their lives and motivations, but I would have happily spent more time with them.
One of the book's strengths, in my view, is its structure. The dual perspectives felt fresh and maintained my interest throughout, helping the story remain engaging from beginning to end.
Overall, I really enjoyed Lovesick and found it difficult to put down. I look forward to seeing what Telford writes next!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
**Thank you to HQ Insiders for the Advanced Reading Copy**
What an absolutely stunning book! It gave me all the feels and took me on an absolute journey.
We are introduced and get to know the main characters Gordon and Gabby and you just want to keep reading to find out the reason that they have broken up. The story in itself is told from each of their perspectives and moves from the present day to the past but not always in that order.
It's an extremely relatable read, especially if you've ever experienced that all-encompassing and consuming love for another person. It helps us to understand that what we have experienced in life, may shape and impacts us in ways that we could never imagine. That inevitably we will go through things and that we all experience life's ups and downs in different ways. It deals with the realities that are love, lust, obsession, jealousy, heartbreak, family drama, trauma. It doesn't sugarcoat and gloss over these things and the feelings associated with these. Both Gordon and Gabby feel that through what has happened, that they are unworthy of being loved by another and it is through them facing their inner demons and life that helps them to heal and hopefully find their way to love and happiness.
What an absolutely stunning book! It gave me all the feels and took me on an absolute journey.
We are introduced and get to know the main characters Gordon and Gabby and you just want to keep reading to find out the reason that they have broken up. The story in itself is told from each of their perspectives and moves from the present day to the past but not always in that order.
It's an extremely relatable read, especially if you've ever experienced that all-encompassing and consuming love for another person. It helps us to understand that what we have experienced in life, may shape and impacts us in ways that we could never imagine. That inevitably we will go through things and that we all experience life's ups and downs in different ways. It deals with the realities that are love, lust, obsession, jealousy, heartbreak, family drama, trauma. It doesn't sugarcoat and gloss over these things and the feelings associated with these. Both Gordon and Gabby feel that through what has happened, that they are unworthy of being loved by another and it is through them facing their inner demons and life that helps them to heal and hopefully find their way to love and happiness.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Lovesick is the first novel by Australian author, Lillian Telford. When Gordon falls in love with Gabby McLeish, he can’t imagine life without her. Months on, Gabby is trying to soothe her broken heart by withdrawing, by seeking comfort with an ex, by avoiding reminders, by reluctantly going out with friends, and by eventually starting the sort of affair that some might see as risky behaviour.
How did it all go so wrong? Gordon’s narrative starts with meeting Gabby and tracks the progress of their relationship. Gabby’s perspective is shown from a few days after their break-up. There are flashbacks providing background to each of them, while incidents and interactions with family and friends gradually reveal how the break-up was precipitated. The importance of Gabby’s close friendship with Roisin, and the significance of Gordon’s abandonment by his mother become apparent.
Throughout, the reader wonders what happened and whether there’s a way back. A real and gritty tale that demonstrates how childhood issues can be triggered by current life events, and how friendships can teeter. A moving and thought-provoking debut.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and HQ Fiction.
How did it all go so wrong? Gordon’s narrative starts with meeting Gabby and tracks the progress of their relationship. Gabby’s perspective is shown from a few days after their break-up. There are flashbacks providing background to each of them, while incidents and interactions with family and friends gradually reveal how the break-up was precipitated. The importance of Gabby’s close friendship with Roisin, and the significance of Gordon’s abandonment by his mother become apparent.
Throughout, the reader wonders what happened and whether there’s a way back. A real and gritty tale that demonstrates how childhood issues can be triggered by current life events, and how friendships can teeter. A moving and thought-provoking debut.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and HQ Fiction.
June 30, 2026
Lovesick is an amazing debut that left me reflecting on my own past and how our childhood hurts can spill over into our adult relationships. The writing is absolutely beautiful and at times poetic. It made me feel really nostalgic, like I was a reliving parts of my childhood in Brisbane.
This follows Gabby and Gordon, who meet one night while out and quickly fall in love. Their relationship is beautiful and intense, but they both cling to each other so tightly that their fear of loss and their unresolved wounds eventually drive them apart.
Alongside their romance, this book explores dysfunctional families, absent parents, pregnancy loss, toxic friendships, heartbreak, loneliness, and the perils of modern dating.
What I found especially unique was the way this book was structured. Gabby’s POV is told after the breakup, while Gordon’s unfolds during their relationship. It felt like peeling back the layers of an onion, with each chapter revealing another piece of their story that make up the whole at the end.
I really enjoyed how raw and emotional this story was, and I found myself relating to both characters in different ways. I would highly recommend this book if you’re looking for an emotional read that will leave you reflecting on your own experiences.
This follows Gabby and Gordon, who meet one night while out and quickly fall in love. Their relationship is beautiful and intense, but they both cling to each other so tightly that their fear of loss and their unresolved wounds eventually drive them apart.
Alongside their romance, this book explores dysfunctional families, absent parents, pregnancy loss, toxic friendships, heartbreak, loneliness, and the perils of modern dating.
What I found especially unique was the way this book was structured. Gabby’s POV is told after the breakup, while Gordon’s unfolds during their relationship. It felt like peeling back the layers of an onion, with each chapter revealing another piece of their story that make up the whole at the end.
I really enjoyed how raw and emotional this story was, and I found myself relating to both characters in different ways. I would highly recommend this book if you’re looking for an emotional read that will leave you reflecting on your own experiences.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
If you pick up only one work of fiction in 2026, let it be ‘Lovesick’. From the first page, it’s clear that this novel is something truly special. Lillian Telford’s writing is remarkably forthcoming and sharp, and at the same time, the elegance of her prose will melt you like butter.
Telford moves between the perspectives of Gabby and Gordon with intention and control, unravelling the fibres of their upbringings, trauma, friendships, families, identities, vices, and most significantly, their shifting relationship with each other.
Circumstance forces emotional fractures between them, tearing at their sense of self and their understanding of how to exist together and apart. But like papermaking, this shredding might only be one messy step in the process of creating something new and beautiful.
I greatly adored every minute I spent with these characters in all their complexity and humanity, and especially adored every minute I spent soaking up Lillian’s writing in awe. I believe lovers of Coco Mellors (‘Blue Sisters’, ‘Cleopatra and Frankenstein’) or any elegantly descriptive literary fiction will find a new favourite in ‘Lovesick’.
Telford moves between the perspectives of Gabby and Gordon with intention and control, unravelling the fibres of their upbringings, trauma, friendships, families, identities, vices, and most significantly, their shifting relationship with each other.
Circumstance forces emotional fractures between them, tearing at their sense of self and their understanding of how to exist together and apart. But like papermaking, this shredding might only be one messy step in the process of creating something new and beautiful.
I greatly adored every minute I spent with these characters in all their complexity and humanity, and especially adored every minute I spent soaking up Lillian’s writing in awe. I believe lovers of Coco Mellors (‘Blue Sisters’, ‘Cleopatra and Frankenstein’) or any elegantly descriptive literary fiction will find a new favourite in ‘Lovesick’.
June 5, 2026
Big thank you to Netgalley, Harlequin Aus and of course Lillian Telford for this beautiful novel.
Lovesick is by no means a light read but it is an incredible exploration of human nature encompassing both the beautiful and the ugly. If you like to psychoanalyse people's behaviour like I do, you will love this book. If you feel validated and human when you hear someone's jelous inner monologue, you will love this book. If you know what is is to love someone with every fibre of your being, this book will speak to you.
Gabby and Gordon meet on a drunken, drug fuelled night out and seemingly find their other half. An insatiable attraction and a penchant for providing what the other was missing their whole lives, quickly makes them invaluable to one another. However, friendships and past traumas complicate things and finally, a mutual trauma breaks them apart. Both deal with grief in dangerous and damaging ways. Both feel they are unworthy of love. Both need to work through their inner hatred before they can begin to find their way back, hopefully to one another.
For fans of Sally Rooney, Claire Daverley and Miranda Cowley Heller.
TW: abandonement, estranged family, miscarriage, heavy alcohol and drug use.
Lovesick is by no means a light read but it is an incredible exploration of human nature encompassing both the beautiful and the ugly. If you like to psychoanalyse people's behaviour like I do, you will love this book. If you feel validated and human when you hear someone's jelous inner monologue, you will love this book. If you know what is is to love someone with every fibre of your being, this book will speak to you.
Gabby and Gordon meet on a drunken, drug fuelled night out and seemingly find their other half. An insatiable attraction and a penchant for providing what the other was missing their whole lives, quickly makes them invaluable to one another. However, friendships and past traumas complicate things and finally, a mutual trauma breaks them apart. Both deal with grief in dangerous and damaging ways. Both feel they are unworthy of love. Both need to work through their inner hatred before they can begin to find their way back, hopefully to one another.
For fans of Sally Rooney, Claire Daverley and Miranda Cowley Heller.
TW: abandonement, estranged family, miscarriage, heavy alcohol and drug use.
June 30, 2026
I was fortunate to receive an Advanced Reading Copy of Lovesick by Lillian Telford.
This book tells the story of Gabby and Gordon. I found Gabbys chapters easy to read but in the beginning I found Gordon’s story hard to understand as he talks in the past and the present. As the story went on I understood Gordon’s character more.
This is a heartfelt story that explores the complexities of love, relationships and finding yourself.
I enjoyed how authentic the characters felt. They each had their own strengths, flaws and vulnerabilities, making it easy to connect with them. The relationships captured both the excitement and uncertainty that come with opening your heart to someone else.
The themes of love, friendship, self-discovery and second chances are woven throughout the story. There are plenty of emotional moments, balanced with lighter ones, creating a novel that is relatable.
Lillian Telford has written a story that flows and keeps the pages turning. I found myself wanting to know what would happen next.
Lovesick is a warm romance that reminds us that love often finds us when we least expect it.
This book tells the story of Gabby and Gordon. I found Gabbys chapters easy to read but in the beginning I found Gordon’s story hard to understand as he talks in the past and the present. As the story went on I understood Gordon’s character more.
This is a heartfelt story that explores the complexities of love, relationships and finding yourself.
I enjoyed how authentic the characters felt. They each had their own strengths, flaws and vulnerabilities, making it easy to connect with them. The relationships captured both the excitement and uncertainty that come with opening your heart to someone else.
The themes of love, friendship, self-discovery and second chances are woven throughout the story. There are plenty of emotional moments, balanced with lighter ones, creating a novel that is relatable.
Lillian Telford has written a story that flows and keeps the pages turning. I found myself wanting to know what would happen next.
Lovesick is a warm romance that reminds us that love often finds us when we least expect it.
June 11, 2026
Lovesick Review
This is the love story of Gabby and Gordon. Two twenty-somethings living in Brisbane figuring out their identities, their pasts, their futures, what love is and what love isn’t.
What an incredible debut book.
I had a lot of feelings while reading this one. These characters were so realistic, so familiar and so relatable. Their stories reminded me of my 20s living in Brisbane city. Nights spent drinking, sometimes being careless with my safety, learning how to love and care for myself, learning how relationships work and dealing with my mental health.
Because of this, I didn’t like the book at first. I was reminded of a lot of the sadder moments, the lonely moments, the embarrassing moments. But then as the book continued, so did my reflections and I realised, just like Gabby and Gordon, these experiences helped me grow and become the person I wanted to be and the person I am.
This is a beautifully written book that definitely hits you in the feels and will make you think.
This is the love story of Gabby and Gordon. Two twenty-somethings living in Brisbane figuring out their identities, their pasts, their futures, what love is and what love isn’t.
What an incredible debut book.
I had a lot of feelings while reading this one. These characters were so realistic, so familiar and so relatable. Their stories reminded me of my 20s living in Brisbane city. Nights spent drinking, sometimes being careless with my safety, learning how to love and care for myself, learning how relationships work and dealing with my mental health.
Because of this, I didn’t like the book at first. I was reminded of a lot of the sadder moments, the lonely moments, the embarrassing moments. But then as the book continued, so did my reflections and I realised, just like Gabby and Gordon, these experiences helped me grow and become the person I wanted to be and the person I am.
This is a beautifully written book that definitely hits you in the feels and will make you think.
July 5, 2026
What a debut! Lovesick truly encapsulates the thoughts behind both Gabby and Gordon with their life colliding and breaking apart. I really enjoyed the different perspectives we get through the non-linear narrative with Gabby being told from a first person perspective and Gordon's third person.
Lillian beautifully describes the little mundane things about a person you fall in love with. Like the shampoo, how their mouth tastes ect. As well as what it's like to deal with trauma and healing from a breakup. As well as asking the important question of what love looks like.
Furthermore I really enjoy how she depicts love as the messy and non-linear way it goes as well as how hard it is to move on from a past relationship. While there definitely is some very triggering aspects of the story it makes the characters feel more real with their mistakes and problems as well as how they decide to deal with them.
Those who are looking for a contemporary Romance set in Brisbane ( or just Australia) are going enjoy picking this one up.
Thank you HQ books for this advanced copy.
Lillian beautifully describes the little mundane things about a person you fall in love with. Like the shampoo, how their mouth tastes ect. As well as what it's like to deal with trauma and healing from a breakup. As well as asking the important question of what love looks like.
Furthermore I really enjoy how she depicts love as the messy and non-linear way it goes as well as how hard it is to move on from a past relationship. While there definitely is some very triggering aspects of the story it makes the characters feel more real with their mistakes and problems as well as how they decide to deal with them.
Those who are looking for a contemporary Romance set in Brisbane ( or just Australia) are going enjoy picking this one up.
Thank you HQ books for this advanced copy.
July 12, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you to HQ Insiders for providing me with an ARC of Love Sick by Lillian Telford in exchange for an honest review.
Love Sick was such a different take on a love story, and one I wasn’t expecting.
The story follows Gabby and Gordon as they navigate the highs and lows of their relationship, while also dealing with the influence of family, friendships, and a devastating tragedy that ultimately drives them apart.
Lillian Telford explores these darker themes with so much care and nuance. The emotion, depth, and heartache are woven into every page, making this far more than just a romance. I especially loved that the relationships extended beyond the central couple. Gordon’s bond with his siblings and Gabby’s friendship with Roisin added so much warmth and authenticity to the story.
This was a completely unexpected read that stayed with me long after I finished. If you’re looking for an emotional, character-driven story that isn’t afraid to explore the messy realities of love and loss, I’d definitely recommend picking this one up.
Thank you to HQ Insiders for providing me with an ARC of Love Sick by Lillian Telford in exchange for an honest review.
Love Sick was such a different take on a love story, and one I wasn’t expecting.
The story follows Gabby and Gordon as they navigate the highs and lows of their relationship, while also dealing with the influence of family, friendships, and a devastating tragedy that ultimately drives them apart.
Lillian Telford explores these darker themes with so much care and nuance. The emotion, depth, and heartache are woven into every page, making this far more than just a romance. I especially loved that the relationships extended beyond the central couple. Gordon’s bond with his siblings and Gabby’s friendship with Roisin added so much warmth and authenticity to the story.
This was a completely unexpected read that stayed with me long after I finished. If you’re looking for an emotional, character-driven story that isn’t afraid to explore the messy realities of love and loss, I’d definitely recommend picking this one up.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This book had a compelling premise being marketing as a love story for lovers of Sally Rooney which sounded right up my alley but sadly, while the writing was incredible and very Sally Rooney, I struggled to connect to the story or the characters. It’s told from two perspectives - Gabby and Gordon - after a break up. The timeline jumps around so I struggled a little to figure out what timeline we were in. There were parts of the storyline I was invested in - Gordon and his missing mum, Gabby and her messed up relationship with Chip, but I found myself not particularly interested in the other parts. I wanted to love this and the second half was much more compelling that the first because by then we’ve started to figure out why they broke up in the first place and warm to the characters, it look a little too long to get there for me to love it more.
Thanks to Harlequin AusUK and NetGalley for the ARC.
Thanks to Harlequin AusUK and NetGalley for the ARC.
June 29, 2026
Lovesick is the impressive debut of Australian author Lillian Telford. It is an honest, and at times, confronting exploration of the complexities of modern love in all its messy forms.
It unravels the emotional extremes of modern love through the vulnerability of Gabby and Gordon. They are engaging, but deeply flawed characters with mental health, pregnancy loss, toxic friendships, drug and alcohol use and complex family dynamics being key themes they experience as the story evolves.
Telford doesn’t shy away from the dark and confronting side of love in this novel, bringing it to life with evocative depth. However, I did find the shifting timelines a little jarring, especially early on.
Overall Lovesick is a beautifully raw and honest debut with a distinctive character driven narrative.
Thank you to HQ Books for a copy to review.
It unravels the emotional extremes of modern love through the vulnerability of Gabby and Gordon. They are engaging, but deeply flawed characters with mental health, pregnancy loss, toxic friendships, drug and alcohol use and complex family dynamics being key themes they experience as the story evolves.
Telford doesn’t shy away from the dark and confronting side of love in this novel, bringing it to life with evocative depth. However, I did find the shifting timelines a little jarring, especially early on.
Overall Lovesick is a beautifully raw and honest debut with a distinctive character driven narrative.
Thank you to HQ Books for a copy to review.
July 8, 2026
We are introduced to two main characters Gabby and Gordon. They meet on a drug-fueled night and develop a relationship.
Both struggle to share their true feelings with each other, yet both have suffered so much trauma throughout their childhood and early adult years.
Working though their issues they eventually find their way back to each other and find happiness and solace together. The book focuses on their struggle and journey to get to where they are.
There were the makings of a good book, but for me it was haphazard and all over the place, no real flow. Thoughts and memories were hard to grasp as they were flicking from one person to another within each of their relationships and it was hard to figure if they were talking about the past or the present. Unfortunately, the book was not appealing to me.
Both struggle to share their true feelings with each other, yet both have suffered so much trauma throughout their childhood and early adult years.
Working though their issues they eventually find their way back to each other and find happiness and solace together. The book focuses on their struggle and journey to get to where they are.
There were the makings of a good book, but for me it was haphazard and all over the place, no real flow. Thoughts and memories were hard to grasp as they were flicking from one person to another within each of their relationships and it was hard to figure if they were talking about the past or the present. Unfortunately, the book was not appealing to me.
May 16, 2026
‘Lovesick’ is the epitome of reading as a form of self-care. It’s raw, it’s real, and it hurts at times to get through but it is such an amazing read and Lillian Telford does such an incredible job taking you on an emotional journey through her writing.
I loved every second I spent with Gabby and Gordon. Both characters were so complex, and you read further on you discover more layers to the pair. But this isn’t just a ‘love’ story. It’s a story about family, friendship, and what it means to not be exactly sure about your place in the world.
I cannot recommend this book enough, it is absolutely devastating but so so worth it. It’s very ‘Cleopatra and Frankenstein’ but make them both in their 20’s and Australian; and I absolutely loved it.
I loved every second I spent with Gabby and Gordon. Both characters were so complex, and you read further on you discover more layers to the pair. But this isn’t just a ‘love’ story. It’s a story about family, friendship, and what it means to not be exactly sure about your place in the world.
I cannot recommend this book enough, it is absolutely devastating but so so worth it. It’s very ‘Cleopatra and Frankenstein’ but make them both in their 20’s and Australian; and I absolutely loved it.
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