Writing Mr. Right

by Jillian Dodd

Spin the wheel. Date the guy. Write the book. Catch feelings?

Kitty Valentine used to be that girl—rom-com royalty with a #1 bestseller and a string of swoonworthy novels. But now? Her latest book flopped harder than a bad Tinder date, and her editor says it's time to spice things up … like, a lot.

The problem? Kitty is more vanilla latte than spicy marg. Writing steamier stuff feels … well, like literary burlesque. But with her bank account ghosting her and her royalties in a situationship with rock bottom, desperate times call for creative (unhinged?) measures.

Enter the Hot Guy Dating Wheel—courtesy of her BFF and a bottle of rosé. A colorful contraption filled with classic romantic “types” Kitty has to date—purely for research, of course. One spin, one guy, one story at a time.

What starts as a last-ditch effort to save her career quickly spirals into a series of unexpected dates, hilarious encounters, and maybe, just maybe … her own real-life love story.Perfect for readers who love awkward heroines, flirty banter, dating disasters, and swoony happily-ever-afters.

Genres: Rom Com

226 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 13, 2026

About the author

Jillian Dodd is a USA Today bestselling mother-daughter duo made up of Jill and Kenzie — two writers, one pen name, and a shared love for fun, binge-worthy YA romance. 

With over fifty books and millions of happy readers, their stories range from small-town love in That Boy to glamorous adventures and swoony YA boarding school dramas in The Keatyn Chronicles, London Prep, Spy Girl, and beyond.

Jill lives in sunny Florida with her husband, while Kenzie lives in Scotland with her husband and family. When they’re not writing across time zones, you’ll find them planning their next adventure or dreaming up lovable stories readers can’t put down. 

Reviews

[Becky Q. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I LOVED THIS BOOK. Why have I not read Jillian Dodd until now!? This book was so good! The banter alone had me committed to reading more by this author asap! I loved the characters and thought they were written perfectly for the roles they played and I honestly kind of love when a character frustrates me but I'm still rooting for them and that was Kitty 100% for me! This was soooo addicting and I genuinely had no idea how it was going to wrap up! I kept checking how little I had left thinking...OKAY HOW IS THIS GOING TO RESOLVE!??! And I was so pleasantly surprised! It gave me very big 2000s romcom vibes but also had some powerful, emotional moments (I got pretty teary at times because I could relate to some of Kitty's issues!). I also really appreciated how mature certain relationship moments felt...like growth, honesty, standing up for yourself...I WANT MORE OF THAT! If you want a quick romcom with a lot of heart and the promise of a really fun series ahead (seriously so excited for this whole series!!!!), I highly recommend giving this one a shot! I'm officially ready to read more by this author!

[Destiny · Rating 4 out of 5]

My first introduction (many, many years ago) to Jillian Dodd was The Keatyn Chronicles, and I absolutely DEVOURED that series. Then I discovered That Boy and fell even harder (Danny Diamond forever!!!). I’ve still kept up with her books over the years, but—let’s be real—life happened and other books happened… and somehow I never got around to the Kitty Valentine series.

So I was beyond excited to be an ARC reader (thank you so much, Jillian Dodd!) for this revamped edition.

Writing Mr. Right follows Kitty Valentine, a former rom-com queen with a #1 bestseller and a string of swoon-worthy novels. But now? Her latest book flopped harder than a bad Tinder date, and her editor tells her it’s time to seriously spice things up. The only problem? Kitty is more vanilla latte than spicy marg—and she has absolutely no idea how to write steamier scenes.

With her bank account ghosting her and her royalties in a situationship with rock bottom, desperate times call for very creative measures.

At the beginning, I honestly wasn’t a huge fan of Kitty’s attitude (like… girl, be for real). But her character growth completely won me over. Watching her step outside of her comfort zone and really start to discover who she is was one of my favorite parts of the story. Her awakening and personal growth felt genuine—and it’s the kind of journey so many people wish they had the confidence to take themselves.

I can’t wait to continue Kitty’s journey, and I’m already excited to see which trope she gets next.

Jillian, you did an absolutely fantastic job with this book. If you’re like me and love a good smutty romance but still want something sweet, fluffy, and full of rom-com energy, this one is for you.
It’s the perfect read for the Valentine season 🥰💖

[Heather Miller · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a shorter novella length book.

Kitty Valentine is a best selling writer. But her last book didn’t make the best sellers list. Her agent and publisher want her to change her soft loving romance stories to change to harder romance. S** sells is what her agent and publisher tell her. That’s not what she writes. Her best friend tells her that also. Soft romance isn’t what’s ‘in’. She needs to find a different romance trope and write to that new trope.

Kitty knows the owner - Blake of the publishing house is going to be a key note speaker in a few days and she snags a ticket to go hear him. When Blake ends his talk Kitty tries to talk with him but someone pushes her to the ground instead. But, that seems to work in her favor and now Blake has his attention drawn to Kitty. Blake takes care of Kitty the rest of the day during the conference. They also have a few dates. But, as a billionaire CEO he is very busy running his different companies and publishing houses. Will Kitty get tired of the brush off from him?

Kitty meets her next door neighbor Matt also works from home. Try and Matt seem to hit things off in the friend area. Kitty asking him about dating and women he has been interested in before.

Will being in a dating relationship with Blake help Kitty’s write a billionaire series? Or will it bomb like her last book? Will Blae and Kitty be able to have a relationship? Or will Blake keep letting work get in the way?

I did receive a free ARC copy of this book. I am freely leaving a honest book review.

[Keerstin Price · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️ I have a strong feeling she’s gonna end up with Matt at the end of this series

[Maria Merced · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25/5⭐️

ARC Review:
Oh my word!!!! This is a re-brand of the Kitty Valentine series.

I laughed so hard while reading this. Kitty Valentine is hilarious. I was literally cracking up to the events that happened to her while she was dating Blake.

I hope and wish she and Matt are endgame🫶🏻

However, I am here for the ride to see all the men she will be dating during the series. 🤩

[Precious · Rating 3 out of 5]

Firstly I’d like to thank Jillian for the opportunity to read this ARC! -❤️-
Writing Mr. Right was a cute quick read. There were definitely a few pages that made me giggle! I love how, in her own way, Kitty still managed to have a “HEA”! And can I just state that Hayley is the best, best friend! She’s so forward with Kitty but in the most loving and respectful way.

[Katherine Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great story and plot. I can't wait for Book 2. Please tell me there is a Book 2 to the "Writing Mr. Right" series.

Kitty is a writer, so you get two stories in one! She is navigating the relationships of romance, writing about all the Mr. Rights in the book world while growing her confidence as a writer. She has the freedom right now to gain real-life experience to draw from, and I am here for that journey, though I do hope that freedom status changes.

If you enjoy a romance story that has more depth to it, you will fall in love with this book. It does not end on a cliffhanger or a happily ever after; it ends on growth and accomplishment for the character and wanting the next book for you.

[Dee Mac · Rating 4 out of 5]

A new direction
4.5 ⭐️
I loved the premise of this series starter - an author having to change her writing style and using a dating wheel for inspiration.
Kitty is such a breath of fresh air, she’s sarcastic, quirky, awkward, self deprecating and not sure if she’s up to the career challenge.
Blake was swoonworthy, sweet and romantic. Kitty’s relationship with him brings many laughs but is also heartfelt.
Matt is honest, bold and flirty but in a low-key way. I thoroughly enjoyed their growing friendship.
This story is full of great humour, flirting and romance. It’s an easy and quick read and the “real-life” journey of the characters had me hooked from start to finish.
This is my first time reading the Kitty Valentine series and I can’t wait to see who Kitty ends up dating next and how her relationship with Matt develops.

[The Adventurous Reader · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved getting to meet Kitty Valentine and follow her on her new writing assignment. What a fun concept for not only the readers but also the writers, dating different kinds of men as “research” for the next book. Blake was charming and felt like a good start for Kitty in this fun to read romcom. Looking forward to reading who is next, and getting to see a bit more of Kitty’s friends, family, and neighbor!

[Brandy Alegria · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐
I have been following Jillian's book series for quite a few years now and have always loved them. This book was no exception, her writing style and character dialogue hooks you in from the moment you start. I really enjoyed following Kitty and will be curious to see where she will go in the next book. I definitely recommend checking this book out!

[KS · Rating 4 out of 5]

Glow up Chick Lit.

Kitty Valentine has returned. This was such a fun series the first time around and now it gets a fresh look.

Kitty is a best selling author who suddenly isn’t and has to steam up her stories to get more readers. Her BFF proposes a dating wheel and let the hilarity ensue.

First up is a billionaire boss trope. This one was humorous, bittersweet, and a little sad. You need to go into these not expecting an HEA as Kitty will be dating A LOT to get some fresh material.

Blake is a hottie, but being a billionaire isn’t a walk in the park. And Matt the neighbor will cause some interesting interactions as well. I liked him more later in the series than in this one.

This was an entertaining read with some laugh out loud moments. Kitty definitely has some growing up to do, but we will be cheering her on hoping she can find “the one” at some point…after she’s written more successful books first of course.

I voluntarily requested and read an advance reader copy.

[Eric Simonsen · Rating 4 out of 5]

creative idea

Loved the idea of following the author as she writes her book through her painful dating journey. I guess that’s not quite right it wasn’t really painful, awkward, inspiring and humorous.

[Amz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a fun, flirty rom-com. Kitty agreeing to date a lineup of “research” guys thanks to her Hot Guy Dating Wheel made for so many awkward, hilarious moments and of course, unexpected feelings. It’s light, breezy, and full of banter. Excited to see what’s next for this series!

[The Book Ssirren · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was so much fun to read. I laughed way too hard over some of her dates lol. This had me binging this book because it was so good. I really enjoyed this book. In glad I was chosen to be a part of the ARC team. Tons of fun. Excellent writing.

[Sara Hughes · Rating 2 out of 5]

I wanted to love this one.

This just wasn’t for me. I tried so hard and really wanted it to grab me but it fell flat - and that okay.

I think the blurb made this sound more whimsical than it turned out for me. I felt like it was very much something they had possibly been told themselves in real life about their books? I dont know.

I loved the That Boy series and was hoping to dive into this new series but it will be a no for me.

[Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I first discovered Jillian Dodd when I DEVOURED her Keatyn seties.
Then years later, I fell in love with That Boy & binged those. I still have a thing for Danny Diamond 😍
Then life got in the way and I never picked up Kitty Valentine. So I was excited to read this book with fresh eyes.

As a card carrying dark romance girl, Kittu's books aren't the ones I reach for as a reader. Described as vanilla latte over spicy marg, Kitty seemed to write the books my Gramma would call her "in public" books. (Same woman who gave VC Andrews to an eight year old me and named her dog Sandra Brown)

As a FMC-Kitty unnerved me at the start. Sunshine....you are not as fab as you think. But that set the stage for an amazing awakening storyline....maybe enter the bad boy who will show Kitty she likes being tied up?? (Just my speculation, don't come for me spoiler police) I love love love a FMC who gets to discover herself throughout the book. Speaks to the personal growth many people may or may not possess the confidence to go for.

Bottom line: yes ma'am Jillian!! You've got me hooked for another series!

If you are a smut lover like me, but still like it "sweet"-yup. This is the book for you.

If you hear Keatyn Arrington's voice in your head when you see a blonde girl surfing-Jillian has stayed true to her fantastic representation of the girl you wish you could be in Kitty Valentine. If you're a J Dodd-er, both from the Keatyn days or the newer things-still amazing and this book will make you want to curl up with a blanket and a coffee and get lost. Perfect for the Valentine season!

[Kasey Rafter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kitty is a hot 🔥 romance author working on her newest book. What she thought was gonna be a celebratory night, turns into her publisher dropping a huge bomb 💣.

Kitty has to change her style of writing. The wholesome Halmark isn't selling write now. So her friend creates a spin the wheel to see who she should try to date to get experience for her writing ✍️. Because let's face it, she doesn't remember last time she went out on a date.
But there is 2 men in her life the crazy next door neighbor with a cute dog and her bosses boss. Which man will she choose to write her book about.


I love Kitty. She is truly humble. Doesn't care what comes out her mouth. She is a famous author but knows it can go away at anytime.

[Wendy Livingstone · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first in a new series.
Kitty is sassy, quirky, and funny, and is a bestselling author, but when her latest book baby flops, her editor tells her to spice up her story’s a lot. Thanks to her best fried she meets Mr. Right and finds real life experiences.
This is a good story, which has friendships, emotions, humour, witty banter, and hilarious antics, which leads to an enjoyable, and fun rom com.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.

[Emily Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️

I am honored to have received an e-ARC of this book! 🙏🏼

I LOVE Jillian Dodd and their writing. Their That Boy series was what got me back to reading fiction as an adult and still one of my favorite series of all time!

I had not read this series before the rebrand, so I’m excited to finally get to it and to read them all. The waiting for the next book is going to be hard, so I’m glad it’s only a couple weeks in between each release.

I really enjoyed it. I adore the writing. I kept wanting to know what was going to happen next. It is so good and I am excited to continue the series, but something about it didn’t give me 5 star feelings.

I’m used to reading YA from them, so having adult main characters and more adult themes surprised me, but I am excited to read something a little different from them.

I feel the rebrand was such a smart idea. I love this new cover of the book.

I really enjoyed our FMC Kitty.

Get your hands on it on February 13th, 2026!

[Lauren Ehlers · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an enjoyable introduction to the series and I can see the growth in Kitty over the course of this book. I can’t wait to see where the wheel takes her during this journey and the men she will date. I look forward to reading more in the series!

[K Webz · Rating 4 out of 5]

This rom-com was sweet and perfect for a light read. This is a rebrand of the former Kitty Valentine series and I can’t wait for the journey as Kitty navigates her insecurities, fears and dates!

[Tiffany Byram · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a fun story! I laughed out loud at several moments. I’m excited to see Kitty grow her confidence as a writer & even as a woman. I truly love the way Jillian Dodd writes a story. I am ready to see what’s next for Kitty & her dating life! I know what I am wishing will happen but I know Jillian Dodd will knock it out of the park as always. Thank you to Jillian Dodd & Grey’s Promotions for the ARC.

[Miranda Hawkins · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a short, cute rom-com that made for the perfect light read. It’s sweet, funny, and easy to breeze through, but it also has a thoughtful message tucked between the laughs.

The story follows an author who slowly realizes that the old-school romance formulas she’s been clinging to just don’t hit the same anymore. In trying to figure out how to truly connect with her audience, she’s forced to look inwardand that’s where the heart of this story really shines. Watching her confront her own fears, insecurities, and walls was just as engaging as the romance itself.

It’s charming without being over-the-top, heartfelt without being heavy, and leaves you with that cozy, content feeling when you turn the last page. A great pick if you’re in the mood for something light, uplifting, and quietly meaningful.

[Bec · Rating 4 out of 5]

Writing Mr Right follows the life of Kitty Valentine, a best-selling romance author who is thrown in the deep end of learning how to write spice when her life has been anything but spicy. A humorous and light-hearted read.

"“Women want hot, messy sex. Dirty sex with a foul- mouthed, hot- as- hell, take- what- he- wants guy who’ll leave them breathless. And he needs to have some kind of secret past only the heroine can heal him from.” “With her vagina?” I ask, raising a skeptical eyebrow. “Exactly.” She smiles, like I was asking a serious question".

[Shay · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a really quick, romance read. I really enjoy everything by Jillian. But this was such a fun read, it was really unique I don’t think I’ve read anything like it. I really enjoyed that what started as just trying to date for ideas in her book became so much more for both of them. I loved how things closed at the end of the book and left the door open for reappearances. It was all very satisfying and I will definitely be reading the next book I’m excited to see where the story goes and hope to see more of Blake!

[Heather Angeli · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kitty Valentine is in her flop era… except she doesn’t know it yet. 😅 When her publisher drops the not-so-subtle bomb that sweet romance just isn’t cutting it anymore, Kitty is faced with every author’s nightmare: evolve or get left behind. And evolve means steam. The only problem? Steam is not her brand. She writes butterflies and tender glances, missionary, not smoldering tension and toe-curling chemistry.

Cue bestie of the year, Hayley, who comes up with the most chaotic (and honestly genius) solution ever — spin a wheel to pick Kitty’s next trope. When it lands on boss romance, the gears start turning. Because what better inspiration than her own publisher’s owner… the broody, billionaire, devastatingly attractive Blake Marlin?

What follows is equal parts awkward meet-cute disaster and swoon-worthy rescue. And let me just say — Blake swooping in? 10/10. The chemistry between Kitty and Blake builds in the most delicious way. He’s confident without being overbearing, successful without being arrogant, and the way he supports her creative growth? Sir. Please. 😮‍💨

I absolutely loved watching Kitty step outside her comfort zone. Her internal struggle between staying true to herself and taking risks felt so relatable. As someone who loves romance about writers, this one hit. The behind-the-scenes publishing world, the trope discussions, the brainstorming sessions — it all felt fun and fresh.

And Blake? He’s not just inspiration for her “boss” trope… he becomes so much more. The way he feeds her ideas, challenges her, and genuinely believes in her talent made their relationship feel layered, not just flirty. The tension is there, the banter is sharp, and when things heat up, it feels earned.

This book is charming, witty, and just the right amount of spicy while still keeping that heartfelt core. It’s about taking risks, trusting your voice, and maybe finding your own Mr. Right along the way.

If you love:

Billionaire boss romance

Writer FMCs finding their confidence

Bestie chaos energy

Swoon-worthy saves

Publishing world drama

Then add this to your TBR immediately. Kitty Valentine’s wild ride to reinvent herself? Completely worth it. 💕

[ljamison · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my first Jillian Dodd novel. I found out after I read this book that this was a Kitty Valentine series that was rebranded and updated. I really liked Kitty. She comes across as a little naive, sweet, sarcastic and determined. Kitty is a well known author of clean wholesome romance books. Kitty is doing well and has just published her last book that unfortunately bombed. Times have changed and her readers and publishers are looking for a material that’s a little bit dirtier than Kitty writes. So Kitty sets off the write a new book with all the dirty material she can get. The premise of the book is actually quite interesting, but as an avid reader myself I read it all. I read clean, dark and pitch black romances. So it’s hard to believe that an established clean writer doesn’t have a following and may just need a new publisher and agent. However, Kitty in her quest to write this new improved book meets her very handsome neighbor Matt, and a Blake a very wealthy man who helps to provide Kitty with some insight into what she wants from life. This book doesn’t end with a traditional HEA with one of her men but with more of a HFN with Kitty growing a person, learning about herself and having personal growth.

[Brandi Conico · Rating 5 out of 5]

Full Disclosure: I've read the full Kitty Valentine series in the past and I adore her. Also, I received this copy from Grey's Promotions as an advance copy.

So, Kitty Valentine is the perfect awkward, quirky, sassy heroine. I think every woman can relate to Kitty in some way or another. This book had me laughing out loud during certain parts and on the verge of tears at others. Kitty is so well written that you can't help but feel for her.

The premise of dating a man based on a spinner is fun and interesting. It's hard to balance wanting a date the "tropes". I know how this ends, so I know what a good job the author did with the interweaving story line. This whole series is worth reading again and again.

I'll admit, the only thing I dislike about this revamp is the cover- I prefer the original covers. I would not purchase these covers at all- too busy. That's a minor thing though, and forgivable.

Anyway, pick this one up for a good read.

[Char · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kitty Valentine, former bestselling author but lately her books are flopping. Her agent says it’s time to spice it up. Just one problem. Kitty is more vanilla latte than she is a spicy margarita.
Thankfully bestie Haley has a plan. Dating Roulette. It’s time Kitty Valentine finds some sparks!! It’s time to get dating (and then get writing).
This was a fun read and like every Jillian Dodd book I absolutely devoured it! 💗💗
This read is fun, flirty and definite twenty-something dating shenanigans. Totally a fun vibe 💋💗
I also totally have a crush on Kitty’s neighbour!!
I am excited for this rebrand of the former Kitty Valentine series and I cannot wait to keep dating in the city 💋

Moments
💋 What am I supposed to do? Set myself on fire? That’ll get his attention.
💋 It’s time for Kitty Valentine to stop writing about exciting romance and start living it for herself.

[Kristina Gulbin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Writing Mr. Right by Jillian Dodd is absolutely writing me right. Cute, sweet, and it genuinely made me giggle.

Kitty is so relatable as she navigates learning how to date, and her neighbor is the perfect opposite in all the best ways. Their dynamic leads to some truly funny, awkward, and heart-warming scenarios that kept me smiling the whole way through.

Between Kitty’s inner thoughts and the laugh-out-loud moments she stumbles into, this book feels light, fun, and effortlessly charming. If you’re looking for a rom-com that’s easy to read, funny, and full of feel-good moments, Writing Mr. Right is a great pick.