What do you think?
Rate this book
The Earl Has to Die
Ivy and Delilah were the best of friends, all through their teenage days.
Both members of the 4H club, both active in the GSA.
After graduation, Ivy went out, looking to share her art with the world.
Delilah looked all around their town and all she found was The Earl.
Just a few years after they got married,
Delilah started getting suspicious.
She put on dark glasses to follow her husband
And found his cheating ways malicious
Right away, Ivy drove in from Nashville
On the night of Delilah’s big fight
She held her best friend’s hand, and they thought up a plan
And it didn’t take them long to decide
The Earl had to die.
Both members of the 4H club, both active in the GSA.
After graduation, Ivy went out, looking to share her art with the world.
Delilah looked all around their town and all she found was The Earl.
Just a few years after they got married,
Delilah started getting suspicious.
She put on dark glasses to follow her husband
And found his cheating ways malicious
Right away, Ivy drove in from Nashville
On the night of Delilah’s big fight
She held her best friend’s hand, and they thought up a plan
And it didn’t take them long to decide
The Earl had to die.
- GenresFriends To LoversRomance
344 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 4, 2026
6 people are currently reading
29 people want to read
About the author
Emily Shacklette
18 books81 followersEmily Shacklette is an avid reader, Swiftie and cat lady. She loves romantic tension and spice that lasts for pages. She currently resides in the heart of beautiful San Francisco with her husband and Olive, Punky, and Chicken (her cat children). When she's not reading or writing, you can find her watching Community, riding her Peloton, or listening to Taylor Swift as loudly as the volume will go.
Find her on Instagram (@authoremilyshack) and TikTok (@authoremilyshaack).
authoremilyshack.com
Find her on Instagram (@authoremilyshack) and TikTok (@authoremilyshaack).
authoremilyshack.com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
May 6, 2026
3.5 ⭐
I went into this book with pretty low expectations because the blurb felt a bit vague. I had no idea whether it would lean more into romance or revenge. And honestly? I ended up enjoying it more than I thought I would. It just didn’t completely blow me away.
The story follows best friends Ivy and Delilah. After Delilah finds out her terrible husband has been cheating on her, she decides she’s done. Before starting fresh, she teams up with Ivy to “kill the Earl” (which sounds ridiculous, but believe it or not, that’s actually his name and what he insists on being called). At the same time, Delilah starts realizing her feelings for Ivy might not be so platonic after all. Which raises the question: are they willing to risk their long-standing friendship for something more?
At first, I genuinely thought this would involve actual murder, so finding out the plan was only about humiliating him felt a little underwhelming. Don’t get me wrong, the pranks were fun, and their final scheme was both satisfying and kind of hilarious. But the revenge plot itself felt pretty simple. It worked, but it didn’t hit as hard as I expected. That felt a bit surprising, considering so much of the story revolves around making him regret everything.
One thing that really caught me off guard was how much of a romantic comedy this turned out to be... and to my surprise, I really enjoyed it. I don’t usually love the genre, but the humor here felt natural and well-balanced instead of forced or over-the-top, which made a big difference.
I’m also not usually a fan of children playing big roles in stories, but Sadie completely won me over. She’s sweet, well-written, and never annoying. Lilah’s relationship with her daughter was genuinely touching, and you can feel how much love and care is there from the start. Even better was Sadie’s bond with Ivy. It was adorable. Ivy basically treats her like her own child, and Sadie clearly sees her as a second mom. I didn’t expect motherhood to be such a strong focus, but I actually really appreciated how it was handled.
The cast is fairly small, but aside from the Earl, everyone is supportive and easy to like. Lilah’s family, especially, was warm and welcoming, and I loved how instinctively they embraced Ivy as one of their own. As for the main couple, Ivy was definitely the standout for me. She’s the kind of person anyone would want as a partner. She’s constantly supportive, loving, and nonjudgmental. From the beginning, she’s there for Lilah without hesitation, never trying to diminish her or question her choices. When Lilah is struggling with her divorce and worrying about her daughter’s future, Ivy steps in and creates a sense of stability for both of them.
That being said, Ivy felt almost too perfect. Because she’s written as such an ideal partner, it made her harder to fully connect with. She didn’t always feel like a real, flawed person. Lilah had a similar issue. While she’s clearly a loving mother, she didn’t feel particularly layered or complex. At times, it even seemed like she took Ivy for granted, constantly receiving support without really matching that energy. I did like how open they eventually became about their feelings, especially with the “we’ve both been suppressing this love for years” angle. However, Lilah’s coming-out arc felt underdeveloped and barely explored.
I also appreciated the lack of a dramatic third-act breakup, which is always a win. Still, their relationship didn’t feel completely balanced to me, and even though they were undeniably cute together, I never felt fully emotionally invested.
Overall, this is a fun, easy romantic comedy that’s great if you’re looking for something light. It doesn’t go very deep. There’s not much character growth, and the relationship develops without major obstacles, but it’s still enjoyable for what it is. If you like friends-to-lovers, low angst, humor, motherhood themes, and a light revenge plot, this might be just your vibe!
Thank you to the author and the publisher for the opportunity to read this eARC.
I went into this book with pretty low expectations because the blurb felt a bit vague. I had no idea whether it would lean more into romance or revenge. And honestly? I ended up enjoying it more than I thought I would. It just didn’t completely blow me away.
The story follows best friends Ivy and Delilah. After Delilah finds out her terrible husband has been cheating on her, she decides she’s done. Before starting fresh, she teams up with Ivy to “kill the Earl” (which sounds ridiculous, but believe it or not, that’s actually his name and what he insists on being called). At the same time, Delilah starts realizing her feelings for Ivy might not be so platonic after all. Which raises the question: are they willing to risk their long-standing friendship for something more?
At first, I genuinely thought this would involve actual murder, so finding out the plan was only about humiliating him felt a little underwhelming. Don’t get me wrong, the pranks were fun, and their final scheme was both satisfying and kind of hilarious. But the revenge plot itself felt pretty simple. It worked, but it didn’t hit as hard as I expected. That felt a bit surprising, considering so much of the story revolves around making him regret everything.
One thing that really caught me off guard was how much of a romantic comedy this turned out to be... and to my surprise, I really enjoyed it. I don’t usually love the genre, but the humor here felt natural and well-balanced instead of forced or over-the-top, which made a big difference.
I’m also not usually a fan of children playing big roles in stories, but Sadie completely won me over. She’s sweet, well-written, and never annoying. Lilah’s relationship with her daughter was genuinely touching, and you can feel how much love and care is there from the start. Even better was Sadie’s bond with Ivy. It was adorable. Ivy basically treats her like her own child, and Sadie clearly sees her as a second mom. I didn’t expect motherhood to be such a strong focus, but I actually really appreciated how it was handled.
The cast is fairly small, but aside from the Earl, everyone is supportive and easy to like. Lilah’s family, especially, was warm and welcoming, and I loved how instinctively they embraced Ivy as one of their own. As for the main couple, Ivy was definitely the standout for me. She’s the kind of person anyone would want as a partner. She’s constantly supportive, loving, and nonjudgmental. From the beginning, she’s there for Lilah without hesitation, never trying to diminish her or question her choices. When Lilah is struggling with her divorce and worrying about her daughter’s future, Ivy steps in and creates a sense of stability for both of them.
That being said, Ivy felt almost too perfect. Because she’s written as such an ideal partner, it made her harder to fully connect with. She didn’t always feel like a real, flawed person. Lilah had a similar issue. While she’s clearly a loving mother, she didn’t feel particularly layered or complex. At times, it even seemed like she took Ivy for granted, constantly receiving support without really matching that energy. I did like how open they eventually became about their feelings, especially with the “we’ve both been suppressing this love for years” angle. However, Lilah’s coming-out arc felt underdeveloped and barely explored.
I also appreciated the lack of a dramatic third-act breakup, which is always a win. Still, their relationship didn’t feel completely balanced to me, and even though they were undeniably cute together, I never felt fully emotionally invested.
Overall, this is a fun, easy romantic comedy that’s great if you’re looking for something light. It doesn’t go very deep. There’s not much character growth, and the relationship develops without major obstacles, but it’s still enjoyable for what it is. If you like friends-to-lovers, low angst, humor, motherhood themes, and a light revenge plot, this might be just your vibe!
Thank you to the author and the publisher for the opportunity to read this eARC.
May 4, 2026
What a sweet and fun short read!
I loved the world building for Delilah and Ivy's small town. It helped a lot to understand the plot of the story! Earl ... THE Earl was such an annoying character. I'm so glad the story wasn't a full revenge plan but of a late blooming version of a mother learning to become her true self with the help of her hot tatted best friend.
Thank you to the author and Love Notes PR for this arc!!
I loved the world building for Delilah and Ivy's small town. It helped a lot to understand the plot of the story! Earl ... THE Earl was such an annoying character. I'm so glad the story wasn't a full revenge plan but of a late blooming version of a mother learning to become her true self with the help of her hot tatted best friend.
Thank you to the author and Love Notes PR for this arc!!
May 4, 2026
⭐️3
Thank you too, Love Notes PR and the author for the opportunity to read and review this ARC. 💕
I went into this book not really knowing what to expect. At first, I didn’t even realize it was FF, and based on the title, I was expecting something completely different. This isn’t my first FF romance, but it still took me a little bit to adjust to the direction of the story. One of my favorite things is the characters Ivy and Delilah. I just love their friendship to deliver dynamic, and also how their story was handled. Their relationships felt strong and engaging, and that’s what kept me reading.
However, some of the themes started to feel repetitive, like the same situations and emotions were being revisited over and over again. Because of that, the pacing felt a bit dragged out at times, and I do think the book could have been shorter and tighter.
Overall, it was still a good story, and I recommend it to people who are first starting to read FF or just a cute overall romance.
Thank you too, Love Notes PR and the author for the opportunity to read and review this ARC. 💕
I went into this book not really knowing what to expect. At first, I didn’t even realize it was FF, and based on the title, I was expecting something completely different. This isn’t my first FF romance, but it still took me a little bit to adjust to the direction of the story. One of my favorite things is the characters Ivy and Delilah. I just love their friendship to deliver dynamic, and also how their story was handled. Their relationships felt strong and engaging, and that’s what kept me reading.
However, some of the themes started to feel repetitive, like the same situations and emotions were being revisited over and over again. Because of that, the pacing felt a bit dragged out at times, and I do think the book could have been shorter and tighter.
Overall, it was still a good story, and I recommend it to people who are first starting to read FF or just a cute overall romance.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
What to expect:
😠 Revenge
🤰🏼 Single Mother
🍼 Accidental Pregnancy (not her baby)
🥰 Friends to Lovers
I honestly thought this was going to be just like the song “Goodbye Earl” but it was NOTHING like it!
It’s a slow burn friends to lovers, finding your true self and angsty book! I will warn you, there is some spice in this book!
Definitely a cute little romance book that is a very easy read!
Thank you to the Author Emily Shacklette and Love Notes PR for allowing me to be an ARC Reader!
😠 Revenge
🤰🏼 Single Mother
🍼 Accidental Pregnancy (not her baby)
🥰 Friends to Lovers
I honestly thought this was going to be just like the song “Goodbye Earl” but it was NOTHING like it!
It’s a slow burn friends to lovers, finding your true self and angsty book! I will warn you, there is some spice in this book!
Definitely a cute little romance book that is a very easy read!
Thank you to the Author Emily Shacklette and Love Notes PR for allowing me to be an ARC Reader!
April 26, 2026
thank you Emily and LoveNotes PR for the early copy.
i am sucker for any pregnancy book especially not his baby. now turn that around and make it not HER baby and it’s beautiful. Ivy helping Delilah getting away from that idiot rat (delilah’s father’s words) was so good. A revenge power point was amazing. Ivy and Delilah falling in love was truly so beautifu. If you read queer romance especially sapphic, I highly recommend The Earl Has to Die.
i am sucker for any pregnancy book especially not his baby. now turn that around and make it not HER baby and it’s beautiful. Ivy helping Delilah getting away from that idiot rat (delilah’s father’s words) was so good. A revenge power point was amazing. Ivy and Delilah falling in love was truly so beautifu. If you read queer romance especially sapphic, I highly recommend The Earl Has to Die.
Review of advance copy received from Author
BETA review
5⭐|3🌶️|16%🌶️frequency
I've been hoping for this book since I read "When We Were Younger". It's the story of Delilah's brother Stephen. I already felt there is a story to tell about Delilah and Ivy.
I never made a secret about it that I'm not into MM romance books, but Emily made me read them, and now she made me read a FF romance book 🙈 I don't know if I should be afraid of whatever she is coming next with??? 😱
OK, about this book.
As I said, it's my first FF romance. But I absolutely loved it. Emily knows how to catch me with her stories.
It's not "just" super romantic, it's also SUUPER funny 🤣
I felt sorry for Ivy, who has been in love with her best friend since forever 🥺 But at least she had her by her side as her best friend 🩷
I loved how strong the relationship between Ivy and Sadie was. And not just like the cool aunt who will allow you everything. It's so much more 🥰
And then all the funny scenes. For example, when "Little Bean" kicked for the first time 🤣 Yeah, it should be an emotional moment, and it is, but still, there is more 😎
But my absolute favorites are the scenes with James. God, this man... He's a god. Absolutely 🥵 and what he did...
Who is James? What? You don't know James Adler? Oooh. You really have to read "Georgia on My Mind". It's Emily's first book.
Thanks to the author for trusting me with a BETA 🩷
Follow me on IG for more
https://www.instagram.com/minnie.love...
5⭐|3🌶️|16%🌶️frequency
I've been hoping for this book since I read "When We Were Younger". It's the story of Delilah's brother Stephen. I already felt there is a story to tell about Delilah and Ivy.
I never made a secret about it that I'm not into MM romance books, but Emily made me read them, and now she made me read a FF romance book 🙈 I don't know if I should be afraid of whatever she is coming next with??? 😱
OK, about this book.
As I said, it's my first FF romance. But I absolutely loved it. Emily knows how to catch me with her stories.
It's not "just" super romantic, it's also SUUPER funny 🤣
I felt sorry for Ivy, who has been in love with her best friend since forever 🥺 But at least she had her by her side as her best friend 🩷
I loved how strong the relationship between Ivy and Sadie was. And not just like the cool aunt who will allow you everything. It's so much more 🥰
And then all the funny scenes. For example, when "Little Bean" kicked for the first time 🤣 Yeah, it should be an emotional moment, and it is, but still, there is more 😎
But my absolute favorites are the scenes with James. God, this man... He's a god. Absolutely 🥵 and what he did...
Who is James? What? You don't know James Adler? Oooh. You really have to read "Georgia on My Mind". It's Emily's first book.
Thanks to the author for trusting me with a BETA 🩷
Follow me on IG for more
https://www.instagram.com/minnie.love...
Review of advance copy received from Author
It's always fun when one of your favorite authors goes and fully outdoes themselves, and that is EXACTLY what happened with this one! Every single piece of this book was sheer perfection, and I couldn't love it more! I loved getting to watch Delilah as she fought for what she deserved and what she wanted in her life and for her kids! Her journey of finding herself, and learning the balance of independence and accepting support from those who love her, was absolutely beautiful to watch! And Ivy was such an incredible rock of support for Delilah and Sadie, and I loved how she was able and willing to take charge to help when she was needed! I loved her journey of realizing what exactly she wanted for her own life, and working hard to find that path forward! Adding in the absolute joy of getting so much time with the rest of the Fox Hole characters, and the giddy hunt for Swiftie and Chicks references, and this was just a wholly incredible book!! Overall, this may be my favorite from Emily Shacklette yet, and I swear I fall deeper in love with her work every time!! This was one of my easiest 5 stars of the year!! 5 stars; 3.5 chili peppers
Tropes:
- Best Friends to Lovers
- Accidental Pregnancy
- Not Her Baby
- Toxic Ex Confrontation
- Found Family
- Small Town
Tropes:
- Best Friends to Lovers
- Accidental Pregnancy
- Not Her Baby
- Toxic Ex Confrontation
- Found Family
- Small Town
Review of advance copy received from Author
THEY SOLD TENNESSEE HAM AND STRAWBERRY JAM AND THEY DIDNT LOSE ANY SLEEP AT NIGHT…
Gah, middle finger to The Earl. When you read this you’ll understand why.
Now to the good parts: this is my new #1 Emily Shacklette book. Hands down. I thought nothing would ever top Spinning Out of Control but the crown has been passed.
Ivy and Delilah are a dream team. Supportive, loving, caring, tender-the definition of showing up for your people. Their friendship spans back to school days, where they both harbored feelings for one another but never said a word.
Flash forward, Delilah is ready to say Goodbye Earl and Ivy strolls back into Fox Hole practically blasting Father Figure from a boombox. Jk. But she wastes no time getting home to Delilah and her daughter, Sadie.
I just adored their love for one another and the fact that Ivy never batted an eye at taking care of her girls.
If you’re familiar with Emily’s other work, specially The Possee series, you’ll see some familiar names and faces that play a wonderful part in this story.
Thank you Emily for having me on the Beta team! All thoughts are my own.
Gah, middle finger to The Earl. When you read this you’ll understand why.
Now to the good parts: this is my new #1 Emily Shacklette book. Hands down. I thought nothing would ever top Spinning Out of Control but the crown has been passed.
Ivy and Delilah are a dream team. Supportive, loving, caring, tender-the definition of showing up for your people. Their friendship spans back to school days, where they both harbored feelings for one another but never said a word.
Flash forward, Delilah is ready to say Goodbye Earl and Ivy strolls back into Fox Hole practically blasting Father Figure from a boombox. Jk. But she wastes no time getting home to Delilah and her daughter, Sadie.
I just adored their love for one another and the fact that Ivy never batted an eye at taking care of her girls.
If you’re familiar with Emily’s other work, specially The Possee series, you’ll see some familiar names and faces that play a wonderful part in this story.
Thank you Emily for having me on the Beta team! All thoughts are my own.
Review of advance copy
5 ⭐️
🌶️🌶️ - medium spice, multiple explicit scenes
1st person, dual POV
Goodbye Earl is an iconic song and honestly, I cry a little every time I listen to it. Escaping abuse, female friendship, and an HEA - what more could we ask for??
When I heard this book would be based on that song, I couldn’t request it fast enough! I love Emily’s books and I was so impressed with how she adapted that song in such a creative way. The parallels to the details in the song were there, sometimes subtly, sometimes loudly. I have so many positive things to say.
The friendship between Delilah and Ivy was beautiful and seeing them finally admit their feelings for one another so they could build a new life together was the sweetest “it’s always been you” moment 🥰 Not to mention the way Ivy just immediately claimed Delilah, her daughter, and her unborn child. They had already been family in one way and became family in another, even deeper way.
Plus, all the stuff they did to Earl was even better than literally killing him! I can’t recommend this enough.
Thanks to Love Notes PR for the advance copy 💝 Releases May 4th!
🌶️🌶️ - medium spice, multiple explicit scenes
1st person, dual POV
Goodbye Earl is an iconic song and honestly, I cry a little every time I listen to it. Escaping abuse, female friendship, and an HEA - what more could we ask for??
When I heard this book would be based on that song, I couldn’t request it fast enough! I love Emily’s books and I was so impressed with how she adapted that song in such a creative way. The parallels to the details in the song were there, sometimes subtly, sometimes loudly. I have so many positive things to say.
The friendship between Delilah and Ivy was beautiful and seeing them finally admit their feelings for one another so they could build a new life together was the sweetest “it’s always been you” moment 🥰 Not to mention the way Ivy just immediately claimed Delilah, her daughter, and her unborn child. They had already been family in one way and became family in another, even deeper way.
Plus, all the stuff they did to Earl was even better than literally killing him! I can’t recommend this enough.
Thanks to Love Notes PR for the advance copy 💝 Releases May 4th!
May 4, 2026
Another amazing book by Emily Shacklette! This was a great friends to lovers story - our FMC's Ivy and Delilah have been best friends most of their lives. I LOVE LOVE LOVE that they are both in their 30's and have lived their lives. Ivy comes back to their small hometown to support Delilah and her daughter Sadie (super cute character!!) when Delilah leaves her real jerk of a husband The Earl (yup - that's what he wants people to call him... lol). I loved that Ivy never questioned that she was going to be there for her girls through everything - surprise pregnancy, revenge and everything else! I"m a sucker for "it's always been you" in a story and this did not disappoint. There are some familiar characters from previous Emily books - I love her world building and how she connects her characters/stories but yet you also don't feel you've missed anything if you've missed that particular book. This was a quick and delightful afternoon read. Thank you Love Notes PR for the ARC copy!
May 7, 2026
✨️arc review✨️
4,5🌟/5
Emily is one of my fav authors and this book didn't disappointed!
The plot is really interesting, it follows the story of two best friend, Ivy and Delilah, after the second finds out her husband has been cheating on her she leaves him and team up with Ivy to make him pay.
This turns out to be a fun rom-com, the pranks were fun, the slow burn between them was well made and let me tell you, I'm not a huge fan of the friends to lovers but this one had it all! The 'it's always been you moment' as soooo good, the spice was hot, overall this book had it all.
I love when the character have children, they are always so cute and add to the plot, i loved the relationship between Sadie and Ivy, the little girl is soo sweet, i loved her so much.
If you want to read something a little different from the other book this one is for you!
4,5🌟/5
Emily is one of my fav authors and this book didn't disappointed!
The plot is really interesting, it follows the story of two best friend, Ivy and Delilah, after the second finds out her husband has been cheating on her she leaves him and team up with Ivy to make him pay.
This turns out to be a fun rom-com, the pranks were fun, the slow burn between them was well made and let me tell you, I'm not a huge fan of the friends to lovers but this one had it all! The 'it's always been you moment' as soooo good, the spice was hot, overall this book had it all.
I love when the character have children, they are always so cute and add to the plot, i loved the relationship between Sadie and Ivy, the little girl is soo sweet, i loved her so much.
If you want to read something a little different from the other book this one is for you!
Review of advance copy
I went into this expecting more of a murder/mystery style story, so the shift into a more bi/lesbian romance focus took me a bit to adjust to. Once I got into the rhythm of it, I kept reading to see how everything would play out.
The pranks and petty revenge against “The Earl” had me laughing and cringing at the same time. What started as a funny, slightly chaotic “moving on after hurt” story gradually turned into more of a character-driven exploration of relationships and attraction.
The supporting characters really added to the story for me, and I ended up adding a few related books to my TBR. I especially enjoyed the family/friends stepping in to help with the chaos around “killing him off” 🤣
The pranks and petty revenge against “The Earl” had me laughing and cringing at the same time. What started as a funny, slightly chaotic “moving on after hurt” story gradually turned into more of a character-driven exploration of relationships and attraction.
The supporting characters really added to the story for me, and I ended up adding a few related books to my TBR. I especially enjoyed the family/friends stepping in to help with the chaos around “killing him off” 🤣
May 5, 2026
Let me start off by saying that I always love Emily’s writing!
Emily’s characters always feel so genuine and this book was not the exception. Delilah and Ivy’s story was so heartfelt and you could feel their love for each other throughout the whole book. This story made me laugh, tear up and feel all the feels. This was the perfect short and sweet read but it was not missing out on the drama and spice. The spice scenes were top tier and their chemistry was off the charts.This book had me hooked from beginning to end!
You will love this book if you like:
❤️ Best Friends to Lovers
🤫 Revenge on the most evil ex-husband
💕 “It’s always been you”
🏳️🌈 Bi-awakening
Thank you so much Emily Shacklette and Love Notes PR for this arc!
Emily’s characters always feel so genuine and this book was not the exception. Delilah and Ivy’s story was so heartfelt and you could feel their love for each other throughout the whole book. This story made me laugh, tear up and feel all the feels. This was the perfect short and sweet read but it was not missing out on the drama and spice. The spice scenes were top tier and their chemistry was off the charts.This book had me hooked from beginning to end!
You will love this book if you like:
❤️ Best Friends to Lovers
🤫 Revenge on the most evil ex-husband
💕 “It’s always been you”
🏳️🌈 Bi-awakening
Thank you so much Emily Shacklette and Love Notes PR for this arc!
May 5, 2026
the way i DEVOURED this. Sat down, didn’t get up until it was over - and was giggling, clapping and yelling “H€LL YEAH” throughout! 😆 that’s when you know it’s a good book!
Emily’s writing is truly soooooooo bingable. I was entertained, engaged and felt like I was part of the story from the very beginning. I felt the feminism through the page, the spice was hawwwwwtttt, and i wanted to also metaphorically kill ‘the earl’ 🙄
Sadie was probably my favorite character ngl. She was such a sweet addition to this story! Loved it.
The Vibes:
-Friends to Lovers
-Tattoo Artist x Jam Maker
-Surprise Pregnancy
-Small Town Romance
-Petty Vengeance
-She falls first, She falls HARDER
Emily’s writing is truly soooooooo bingable. I was entertained, engaged and felt like I was part of the story from the very beginning. I felt the feminism through the page, the spice was hawwwwwtttt, and i wanted to also metaphorically kill ‘the earl’ 🙄
Sadie was probably my favorite character ngl. She was such a sweet addition to this story! Loved it.
The Vibes:
-Friends to Lovers
-Tattoo Artist x Jam Maker
-Surprise Pregnancy
-Small Town Romance
-Petty Vengeance
-She falls first, She falls HARDER
Review of advance copy received from Author
Just finished this banger of a book!
We meet Delilah on the day of her wedding. She is getting married to Earl or THE EARL, as he wants everyone to call him. Delilah is freaking out from nerves... Ivy, her bestie, is there being the calm wind she needs to make it through and the wedding goes on as planned.
Fast forward several years.... The Earl is a cheating liar of a husband. Ivy drops everything to come to Delilah's aid. Together, they decide The Earl has to die, metaphorically speaking.
This is a book you dont want to miss. The revenge is so satisfactory it had me cackling.
We meet Delilah on the day of her wedding. She is getting married to Earl or THE EARL, as he wants everyone to call him. Delilah is freaking out from nerves... Ivy, her bestie, is there being the calm wind she needs to make it through and the wedding goes on as planned.
Fast forward several years.... The Earl is a cheating liar of a husband. Ivy drops everything to come to Delilah's aid. Together, they decide The Earl has to die, metaphorically speaking.
This is a book you dont want to miss. The revenge is so satisfactory it had me cackling.
May 7, 2026
Let me tell you something Emily shacklett is a fabulous author. She brought a book to life that have always freaking wanted. The song by the chicks always wondered how that would be in book form and she just made every wish come true. Ivy and Delilah absolutely love the characters they were fabulous. I am just blown away by everything in this book it. It's super seeded my expectations which was phenomenal. Overall, one of the best books I have read this year so far I've read quite a few but this one right here made all my dreams come true and I'm super excited.
May 7, 2026
This was my first read of this author and it definitely won’t be my last. What made me courious to begin with was the title, I just knew I had to find out more and so glad that I did.
It’s a friends to lovers kind of romance, where they have been best friends forever and the line ”it’s always been you” suck me right into a story each freaking time. They are so adorable together.
How she builds up the the characters aswell as their growth is just so amazing and intresting so you just want to know what happens next .
It’s a friends to lovers kind of romance, where they have been best friends forever and the line ”it’s always been you” suck me right into a story each freaking time. They are so adorable together.
How she builds up the the characters aswell as their growth is just so amazing and intresting so you just want to know what happens next .
Review of advance copy received from Author
5⭐3🌶️ ARC Dual POV First Person
Ivy and Delilah
Funny, sad, sweet, and a side of revenge. A delightful time all around. Love Ivy's fully queer tattoo shop, Lilith & Lace. I love their friendship, they are true ride or dies.
Early aughts deliciousness- references to movies(Juno, Runaway Bride, Mean Girls), songs (Goodbye Earl {obvs}, When He Cheats, Teenage Dirtbag)
"The Earl made you cry, and now he has to die."
Ivy and Delilah
Funny, sad, sweet, and a side of revenge. A delightful time all around. Love Ivy's fully queer tattoo shop, Lilith & Lace. I love their friendship, they are true ride or dies.
Early aughts deliciousness- references to movies(Juno, Runaway Bride, Mean Girls), songs (Goodbye Earl {obvs}, When He Cheats, Teenage Dirtbag)
"The Earl made you cry, and now he has to die."
Review of advance copy received from Author
Firstly, Thank you Emily for the early copy of this book. I'm so glad I was able to read it!
The two characters best friends to lovers was so juicy. I'm sad to say this was my first sapphic but I can tell you right now after this it will not be my last!
I loved how Ivy's intentional love of Lilah and the children just glowed throughout this book. The secret revenge plot made me giggle and OMG a special character made an EPIC appearance.
I loved all the throwbacks to movies and music, made me nostalgic for my teenage years.
3🌶️
My favorite scenes.
Bedroom (obvi)
Farmers Market
Dugout (Special Appearance Character!)
Delivery room
Oh can I say there are two Epilogues Y'all!! YES!
Keep up the great work Emily. Can't wait for your next one.
The two characters best friends to lovers was so juicy. I'm sad to say this was my first sapphic but I can tell you right now after this it will not be my last!
I loved how Ivy's intentional love of Lilah and the children just glowed throughout this book. The secret revenge plot made me giggle and OMG a special character made an EPIC appearance.
I loved all the throwbacks to movies and music, made me nostalgic for my teenage years.
3🌶️
My favorite scenes.
Bedroom (obvi)
Farmers Market
Dugout (Special Appearance Character!)
Delivery room
Oh can I say there are two Epilogues Y'all!! YES!
Keep up the great work Emily. Can't wait for your next one.
May 4, 2026
I had been highly anticipating this book for some time and it did not disappoint.
The plot is a fun mix of romance and revenge that felt light and playful. Ivy and Delilah have a great relationship and I loved the way that it slowly evolved as Ivy kept showing up for not only Lilah but also her daughter and Little Bean.
At this point, I think it is safe to say that I am a big fan of Emily's writing and I love everything she brings out.
The plot is a fun mix of romance and revenge that felt light and playful. Ivy and Delilah have a great relationship and I loved the way that it slowly evolved as Ivy kept showing up for not only Lilah but also her daughter and Little Bean.
At this point, I think it is safe to say that I am a big fan of Emily's writing and I love everything she brings out.
May 7, 2026
**Review of advanced reader copy**
This was such a sweet and fun read. I loved Ivy's relationship with Delilah and Sadie. It was so sweet to see so much love.
I really enjoyed that there was a pre-existing relationship between the main characters that was built upon. I don't often read many friends to lovers stories, but after reading this I think I will have to because I couldn't help but swoon throughout this.
This was such a sweet and fun read. I loved Ivy's relationship with Delilah and Sadie. It was so sweet to see so much love.
I really enjoyed that there was a pre-existing relationship between the main characters that was built upon. I don't often read many friends to lovers stories, but after reading this I think I will have to because I couldn't help but swoon throughout this.
April 3, 2026
literally just finished beta reading and immediately had to write this review because O M G!!! Emily has done it once again! I laughed, I cried, and I definitely blush too lol…All that to say, you need to get your hands on this book when it comes out!!! Delilah and Ivy are amazing and we definitely can’t forget Sadie or the lovely people of Fox Hole (excluding Earl 🤢). TEN OUT OF TENNNN!
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Farmers Market!!! 🔥🔥
This was such a cute and funny story! I enjoyed that Ivy and Delilah were best friends and each other's person outside of their romantic feelings for each other.
I was definitely like the brother, "it was about time" - very slow burn!
Definitely read in one afternoon and enjoyed that there were kick my feet moments and throughly enjoyed watching the demise of Earl!
This was such a cute and funny story! I enjoyed that Ivy and Delilah were best friends and each other's person outside of their romantic feelings for each other.
I was definitely like the brother, "it was about time" - very slow burn!
Definitely read in one afternoon and enjoyed that there were kick my feet moments and throughly enjoyed watching the demise of Earl!
Review of advance copy
Another fantastic read from Emily. I laugh so much when reading her books. The chemistry and banter between Delilah and Ivy was so good. It had so many great tropes. From best friends to lovers, it's always been you, bi awakening and revenge. I loved how Ivy stepped up, no questions asked. Delilah showed so much strength getting through her divorce from The Earl.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
ARC review. Somehow was not aware the book was FF but I still got through it and mostly enjoyed the story. Good for a book that I was not expecting to read FF. I’ve never read FF before and I did enjoyed the book way more than I thought I would.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was such a fun concept for a book— me and my glitter pink iPod where I illegally downloaded Goodbye Earl by the Chicks are SO PLEASED
Ivy and Delilah had such good chemistry, even just as friends, it was so sweet to watch their romantic relationship develop💖
Thank you, Emily, for this ARC!
Ivy and Delilah had such good chemistry, even just as friends, it was so sweet to watch their romantic relationship develop💖
Thank you, Emily, for this ARC!
May 6, 2026
This was such a fun read. I loved Ivy and Delilah. I giggled and had so much fun going to know these two and the goings on they could get up to. And this was such a wonderful friends to lovers romance. They were so cute, so sweet. They made my heart warm.
May 6, 2026
Received as ARC.
This was such a fun little read. Delilah's story is so true for so many people. What a relief to see her get her happy ending.
Ivy is a saint in her own way, and such a blessing to those she loves.
I definitely recommend.
This was such a fun little read. Delilah's story is so true for so many people. What a relief to see her get her happy ending.
Ivy is a saint in her own way, and such a blessing to those she loves.
I definitely recommend.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was a well written friends to lovers romance! I was hooked from the beginning! Thank you to the author for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Rtc
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews