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All the Words You Shouldn't Say
The first book in a new, steamy, contemporary romance series, primarily following a single couple. With loveable and diverse side characters, humour and banter, intimacy in all its messiness, and real character growth: All the Words mixes spice, heartache, and warmth, to create a love story you won’t forget.
New job? Check.
Non-fictional love interest? Check.
Though him being her boss hadn’t been part of the plan … nor was being paid for sex.
Following graduation, Cathy is disillusioned with life. Her friends believe she needs to escape her dead-end waitressing job and finally get a boyfriend. When a new job seems to promise both of those things – her enigmatic new boss finally making her break up with her fictional love interests – things don’t go quite to plan.
When a one-night stand turns into an intimate arrangement, Cathy has to quickly change her opinion of herself, and redraw the parameters of her life to be with the man she knows she's falling for, even though he has no intention of falling for her back. But it’s the only way she can have him, and something is better than nothing . . . until it isn’t.
New job? Check.
Non-fictional love interest? Check.
Though him being her boss hadn’t been part of the plan … nor was being paid for sex.
Following graduation, Cathy is disillusioned with life. Her friends believe she needs to escape her dead-end waitressing job and finally get a boyfriend. When a new job seems to promise both of those things – her enigmatic new boss finally making her break up with her fictional love interests – things don’t go quite to plan.
When a one-night stand turns into an intimate arrangement, Cathy has to quickly change her opinion of herself, and redraw the parameters of her life to be with the man she knows she's falling for, even though he has no intention of falling for her back. But it’s the only way she can have him, and something is better than nothing . . . until it isn’t.
346 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 22, 2026
About the author
Sophie Oswald
2 books8 followersSophie lives in York, England with her husband and two daughters. As well as writing, she loves reading, video games and board games. Oh, and chocolate, so much chocolate. She hates the miscommunication trope and forced third-act break ups. Due to having aphantasia, heavy descriptions and excessive world building do little for her. Romance/romantasy is her go to genre, but she likes to mix it up now and again. She writes character-driven narratives, and story tells through witty and compelling dialogue, with a focus on love in all its forms - friendship, family, and romantic.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
March 2, 2026
I Laughed, I Cried, I Yelled at a Fictional Man - 10/10 Would Recommend
Okay, so I went into this book not knowing what to expect, and Sophie Oswald just had to go and write something completely unique that I’ve never read before. Rude. Now I have to sit here and wait for book 2 like a normal person.😭
The premise hooked me immediately: Cathy is an introvert who prefers fictional men (relatable content), but then she gets a job opportunity and suddenly finds herself falling for her boss Max. They hook up at a Christmas party, he says it’s a one-time thing (classic), but then comes back with a proposal. Cathy knows she should say no, but she likes him too much, so she agrees even though she wants a real relationship. My heart? Broken. My investment in these characters? Through the roof.
The banter is absolutely brilliant!! I was grinning like an idiot through so many scenes. The writing is excellent, the plot kept me completely hooked, and I laughed out loud way too many times. Also blushed. A lot. And maybe cried a little (just a little! I’m fine! Everything’s fine!).
Sara is the MVP best friend who’s rightfully worried about Cathy, and I love her for it. She’s protective and honest, which Cathy desperately needs. Also, Sara and Jacob? I need their story immediately. Poor Jacob. I’m INVESTED.
Now, Max. Look, I get it. Maybe there’s a past heartbreak, emotional walls. But sir, you need to get it together and learn to trust again. Hopefully we’ll see that growth in book 2 (WHICH I NEED RIGHT NOW BECAUSE THAT CLIFFHANGER).
The ending is explosive when the truth comes out, and I’m genuinely not coping well with having to wait for answers. Sophie really said “here’s an amazing story” and then left me hanging, and honestly? Iconic behavior, but also I’m suffering.
If you love great banter, swoony romance, complex emotions, real friendships - read this! Just prepare yourself for the cliffhanger.🫠
Okay, so I went into this book not knowing what to expect, and Sophie Oswald just had to go and write something completely unique that I’ve never read before. Rude. Now I have to sit here and wait for book 2 like a normal person.😭
The premise hooked me immediately: Cathy is an introvert who prefers fictional men (relatable content), but then she gets a job opportunity and suddenly finds herself falling for her boss Max. They hook up at a Christmas party, he says it’s a one-time thing (classic), but then comes back with a proposal. Cathy knows she should say no, but she likes him too much, so she agrees even though she wants a real relationship. My heart? Broken. My investment in these characters? Through the roof.
The banter is absolutely brilliant!! I was grinning like an idiot through so many scenes. The writing is excellent, the plot kept me completely hooked, and I laughed out loud way too many times. Also blushed. A lot. And maybe cried a little (just a little! I’m fine! Everything’s fine!).
Sara is the MVP best friend who’s rightfully worried about Cathy, and I love her for it. She’s protective and honest, which Cathy desperately needs. Also, Sara and Jacob? I need their story immediately. Poor Jacob. I’m INVESTED.
Now, Max. Look, I get it. Maybe there’s a past heartbreak, emotional walls. But sir, you need to get it together and learn to trust again. Hopefully we’ll see that growth in book 2 (WHICH I NEED RIGHT NOW BECAUSE THAT CLIFFHANGER).
The ending is explosive when the truth comes out, and I’m genuinely not coping well with having to wait for answers. Sophie really said “here’s an amazing story” and then left me hanging, and honestly? Iconic behavior, but also I’m suffering.
If you love great banter, swoony romance, complex emotions, real friendships - read this! Just prepare yourself for the cliffhanger.🫠
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 6, 2026
❧➷ All the words you shouldn’t say by Sophie Oswald
Rating: ★★★★
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
❧➷ I entered this book with no clue whatsoever, but i was mostly drawn in by the title. it intrigued me, because of course its like? an every day dilemma (for me at least). And let me just say that it did not disappoint. The story was on another level - and unlike anything I've ever read before in the best way of course.
❧➷ The story follows a sweet English graduate named Cathy, and cheeky business man Max. Cathy lands herself in a new job at Max’s company, and suddenly finds herself falling for him. Things take a major turn at the company Christmas party, things get steamy but only under the pretences that it was going to be a one time thing. We get to see Cathy try and navigate through the situation she finds herself in, something incredibly new to her. She is a completely real, believable as well as relatable, i think we all have a bit of ourselves in Cathy, one way or another.
❧➷ Sophie did an amazing job of keeping my attention through the entirety of the book, i could never really guess or predict what was going to happen next. Each and every one of the characters - not just the main ones had a hold on me. the banter and humour in this book was second to none, i was smiling and grinning like an idiot between the back and fourth. and the spice? yes yes yes. i was feeling what Cathy felt, i was right there with her. Aaaaand to say this book isn't even written in first person? is amazing.
❧➷ This book gets 4 star rating from me, it was brilliant and so original, and i love to laugh. Which is what i did. a-lot. i was also feeling stressed and worried and all of the other good things i love to feel. its what reading is for. However - i did feel like the ending was a little fast paced for me personally, and even though i can tell that Max is a big soft gentleman, i wish i knew a little bit more about him so that i could maybe feel close to him the way i did with Cathy. But that's completely fine - it does not take away from the beauty of this first book and how amazing it is. Seriously.
❧➷ So yes i would completely recommend this book, it includes romance, spice, great banter and funny humour and being able to relate to characters. If you like to see characters really come into themselves over pages, secret romance, slight slow burn, raw and real friendships and very complex emotions, this book is for you. just make sure to mentally prepare yourself for a big cliff-hanger at the end (don't we love it?) thankyou Sophie for blessing me with something i never knew i needed. I cannot wait to read the ARC for the next one and see how Max and Cathy progress.
Rating: ★★★★
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
❧➷ I entered this book with no clue whatsoever, but i was mostly drawn in by the title. it intrigued me, because of course its like? an every day dilemma (for me at least). And let me just say that it did not disappoint. The story was on another level - and unlike anything I've ever read before in the best way of course.
❧➷ The story follows a sweet English graduate named Cathy, and cheeky business man Max. Cathy lands herself in a new job at Max’s company, and suddenly finds herself falling for him. Things take a major turn at the company Christmas party, things get steamy but only under the pretences that it was going to be a one time thing. We get to see Cathy try and navigate through the situation she finds herself in, something incredibly new to her. She is a completely real, believable as well as relatable, i think we all have a bit of ourselves in Cathy, one way or another.
❧➷ Sophie did an amazing job of keeping my attention through the entirety of the book, i could never really guess or predict what was going to happen next. Each and every one of the characters - not just the main ones had a hold on me. the banter and humour in this book was second to none, i was smiling and grinning like an idiot between the back and fourth. and the spice? yes yes yes. i was feeling what Cathy felt, i was right there with her. Aaaaand to say this book isn't even written in first person? is amazing.
❧➷ This book gets 4 star rating from me, it was brilliant and so original, and i love to laugh. Which is what i did. a-lot. i was also feeling stressed and worried and all of the other good things i love to feel. its what reading is for. However - i did feel like the ending was a little fast paced for me personally, and even though i can tell that Max is a big soft gentleman, i wish i knew a little bit more about him so that i could maybe feel close to him the way i did with Cathy. But that's completely fine - it does not take away from the beauty of this first book and how amazing it is. Seriously.
❧➷ So yes i would completely recommend this book, it includes romance, spice, great banter and funny humour and being able to relate to characters. If you like to see characters really come into themselves over pages, secret romance, slight slow burn, raw and real friendships and very complex emotions, this book is for you. just make sure to mentally prepare yourself for a big cliff-hanger at the end (don't we love it?) thankyou Sophie for blessing me with something i never knew i needed. I cannot wait to read the ARC for the next one and see how Max and Cathy progress.
April 8, 2026
All the words you shouldn’t say is a book unlike any other I have read before and I loved it!
This book is a spicy, slow burn workplace romance (with a twist) balanced with humour, banter, yearning and the awareness that no one is perfect and love can be messy.
The main characters (Cathy and Max) are extremely likeable. Cathy is an English graduate working as a waitress, in love with her book boyfriends and hiding herself from the world. Max is a relationship avoidant, head of his family company. A twist of fate leads to them meeting and then subsequently Cathy finding herself working for him; and falling for him. What follows next is a mix of blurred lines, insane sexual chemistry and an emotional rollercoaster — both for the characters, and the reader. This book is genuinely impossible to put down, I loved the way Sophie writes, and the fresh and fun premise of this book.
What I loved:
✨ I really loved Cathy’s character, she was so relatable - staying in with a book over going out; finding people lacking to her book boyfriends
✨ The way Sophie writes is addictive, this book was unputdownable
✨ The story was a premise I have never read which was exciting and it is also written so tastefully
What didn’t work for me:
🥀 Only thing was that the ending was quite quick - however, book 2 is coming out soon and I CANNOT WAIT
Favourite Quote:
“Real people were just too imperfect, and that included herself.”
Overall, the book was unforgettable. I cannot recommend this book enough and I am so hyped for the next book - All the words I want to say. If there is a single book you pick up, please let it be this one
Rating - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spice - 🔥🔥🔥🔥/5
This book is a spicy, slow burn workplace romance (with a twist) balanced with humour, banter, yearning and the awareness that no one is perfect and love can be messy.
The main characters (Cathy and Max) are extremely likeable. Cathy is an English graduate working as a waitress, in love with her book boyfriends and hiding herself from the world. Max is a relationship avoidant, head of his family company. A twist of fate leads to them meeting and then subsequently Cathy finding herself working for him; and falling for him. What follows next is a mix of blurred lines, insane sexual chemistry and an emotional rollercoaster — both for the characters, and the reader. This book is genuinely impossible to put down, I loved the way Sophie writes, and the fresh and fun premise of this book.
What I loved:
✨ I really loved Cathy’s character, she was so relatable - staying in with a book over going out; finding people lacking to her book boyfriends
✨ The way Sophie writes is addictive, this book was unputdownable
✨ The story was a premise I have never read which was exciting and it is also written so tastefully
What didn’t work for me:
🥀 Only thing was that the ending was quite quick - however, book 2 is coming out soon and I CANNOT WAIT
Favourite Quote:
“Real people were just too imperfect, and that included herself.”
Overall, the book was unforgettable. I cannot recommend this book enough and I am so hyped for the next book - All the words I want to say. If there is a single book you pick up, please let it be this one
Rating - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spice - 🔥🔥🔥🔥/5
April 23, 2026
Cathy is such an emotional, romantic character, but there’s also this deep insecurity within her that you can feel throughout the story.😢
You can feel the rut she is stuck in at the beginning of this book, it’s very easy to associate with them feelings as I think we’ve all been there at some point in our lives?😏
It’s clear she’s got past hurt, by family, and that shapes how she sees herself and how she loves. (A hopeless romantic with her head in her books) ❤️
I found myself really connecting with her and wanting better for her.💕
Although at their first meeting, Max is nice, and funny to chat and connect with, whilst being blunt and laid back. He is the complete opposite—cold, guarded, and emotionally closed off. ❄️(as she soon finds out 👀)
He’s clearly damaged, and while you can tell he has his ways and the need for control. (His way of protecting himself)
Their dynamic is complicated and, at times, frustrating—but that’s what makes it so addictive.🫠
You’re constantly hoping things will shift, that he’ll finally let his guard down, but the tension between what’s felt and what’s said creates this emotional push and pull that keeps you hooked.🪝(I was rooting for Cathy so much- you just want her to be happy)
This isn’t a soft romance. It’s messy, emotional, and filled with moments that hurt—but in a way that makes you feel completely invested in the outcome. (You really feel for Cathy)
Please go onto the next book- All the words I want to say, as it follows straight into the next one. Their story does not end here 👀
You can feel the rut she is stuck in at the beginning of this book, it’s very easy to associate with them feelings as I think we’ve all been there at some point in our lives?😏
It’s clear she’s got past hurt, by family, and that shapes how she sees herself and how she loves. (A hopeless romantic with her head in her books) ❤️
I found myself really connecting with her and wanting better for her.💕
Although at their first meeting, Max is nice, and funny to chat and connect with, whilst being blunt and laid back. He is the complete opposite—cold, guarded, and emotionally closed off. ❄️(as she soon finds out 👀)
He’s clearly damaged, and while you can tell he has his ways and the need for control. (His way of protecting himself)
Their dynamic is complicated and, at times, frustrating—but that’s what makes it so addictive.🫠
You’re constantly hoping things will shift, that he’ll finally let his guard down, but the tension between what’s felt and what’s said creates this emotional push and pull that keeps you hooked.🪝(I was rooting for Cathy so much- you just want her to be happy)
This isn’t a soft romance. It’s messy, emotional, and filled with moments that hurt—but in a way that makes you feel completely invested in the outcome. (You really feel for Cathy)
Please go onto the next book- All the words I want to say, as it follows straight into the next one. Their story does not end here 👀
May 11, 2026
All the Words You Shouldn’t Say completely swept me away from beginning to end. Sophie Oswald delivers a romance that is emotional, funny, steamy, and incredibly addictive all at once. The chemistry between Cathy and her boss is intense, but what truly made this story stand out was the emotional depth and character growth woven throughout the book.
Cathy felt so real and relatable. Her struggles with self-worth, uncertainty after graduation, and navigating complicated feelings made her such an engaging protagonist. Watching her slowly grow into herself while dealing with love, vulnerability, and messy emotions was beautifully done. The banter was sharp, the tension was perfect, and the romance had me hooked the entire time.
I also loved how the story balanced spice with genuine heart. It wasn’t just about attraction, it was about connection, fear, healing, and learning what you truly deserve. The side characters added so much warmth and personality, making the world feel vibrant and authentic.
This book is the perfect mix of romance, humour, heartbreak, and passion. Sophie Oswald has created a love story that stays with you long after the final page. I cannot wait to read more in this series!
Cathy felt so real and relatable. Her struggles with self-worth, uncertainty after graduation, and navigating complicated feelings made her such an engaging protagonist. Watching her slowly grow into herself while dealing with love, vulnerability, and messy emotions was beautifully done. The banter was sharp, the tension was perfect, and the romance had me hooked the entire time.
I also loved how the story balanced spice with genuine heart. It wasn’t just about attraction, it was about connection, fear, healing, and learning what you truly deserve. The side characters added so much warmth and personality, making the world feel vibrant and authentic.
This book is the perfect mix of romance, humour, heartbreak, and passion. Sophie Oswald has created a love story that stays with you long after the final page. I cannot wait to read more in this series!
April 16, 2026
Ahhhh I loved this book so much! I found Cathy so relatable especially loving the fictional men in her books and wanting to stay in to read instead of going out all the time!
I loved her relationships with Sara and Alison and how they all look after each other and have each others backs. Especially as Sara and Alison are completely different in character! Sara being the most outgoing and Alison being the calmer and more logical person. It had the perfect balance!
Now Max....he definitely came across as giving Christian Grey vibes and then I did burst out laughing as he said 'I'm not Christian Grey' in the book!
I'm really looking forward to finding out if there was someone that broke his heart and that is the reason why he doesn't want to have a proper relationship with Cathy.
Also have to say that cliffhanger at the end! Oh my days!
I can't wait to find out what happens next with Cathy and Max and also will Cathy and Sara patch things up? The next book is going to be a good one!
I loved her relationships with Sara and Alison and how they all look after each other and have each others backs. Especially as Sara and Alison are completely different in character! Sara being the most outgoing and Alison being the calmer and more logical person. It had the perfect balance!
Now Max....he definitely came across as giving Christian Grey vibes and then I did burst out laughing as he said 'I'm not Christian Grey' in the book!
I'm really looking forward to finding out if there was someone that broke his heart and that is the reason why he doesn't want to have a proper relationship with Cathy.
Also have to say that cliffhanger at the end! Oh my days!
I can't wait to find out what happens next with Cathy and Max and also will Cathy and Sara patch things up? The next book is going to be a good one!
April 26, 2026
I had such a good ride with this book! A perfect easy read for a sunny weekend.
Max and Cathy meet via her applying for a job, and guess what? He’s her new boss!
The chemistry between them is so well balanced, and with good, relatable banter.
Max is so much more likeable than I was prepared for, and Cathy grew on me page by page.
I wasn’t at all a fan of Cathy in the beginning, as I felt she was using her sadness as a blanket for laziness.
By the end though, I thought that actually, maybe, she just needed the right person to boost her up and fire the spark in her?
She’s smart and strong minded, and I’m so glad she came out of her shell by the end! The showdown with Sara was very needed in my eyes.
I wasn’t fully prepared for the pregnancy trope, and selfishly I hope Cathy won’t get pregnant.
At this time I feel it added an extra layer that wasn’t fully needed in the story yet, although book 2 may change my mind.
Really looking forward to the second book 😊
Max and Cathy meet via her applying for a job, and guess what? He’s her new boss!
The chemistry between them is so well balanced, and with good, relatable banter.
Max is so much more likeable than I was prepared for, and Cathy grew on me page by page.
I wasn’t at all a fan of Cathy in the beginning, as I felt she was using her sadness as a blanket for laziness.
By the end though, I thought that actually, maybe, she just needed the right person to boost her up and fire the spark in her?
She’s smart and strong minded, and I’m so glad she came out of her shell by the end! The showdown with Sara was very needed in my eyes.
I wasn’t fully prepared for the pregnancy trope, and selfishly I hope Cathy won’t get pregnant.
At this time I feel it added an extra layer that wasn’t fully needed in the story yet, although book 2 may change my mind.
Really looking forward to the second book 😊
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 23, 2026
Thank you very much to the author of this book who gifted me this after I applied for the ARC on a whim.
I cannot wait to read the second one. I was skeptical about reading this book, thinking it may be a bit too lovey dovey for me; if you know me I need some spice with my romance books. I can say I was happily surprised at how much I enjoyed this book and cannot wait to read the second one next.
Was it the spiciest book? No. Was it captivating as hell? Absolutely. I honestly flew through this on kindle, which is new for me considering I much prefer reading a physical book over a kindle one. Which is why I was so impressed, most kindle books take me a long time to get into but this book was done in like under 2 days.
If you're debating it? Read it, it's worth it.
I cannot wait to read the second one. I was skeptical about reading this book, thinking it may be a bit too lovey dovey for me; if you know me I need some spice with my romance books. I can say I was happily surprised at how much I enjoyed this book and cannot wait to read the second one next.
Was it the spiciest book? No. Was it captivating as hell? Absolutely. I honestly flew through this on kindle, which is new for me considering I much prefer reading a physical book over a kindle one. Which is why I was so impressed, most kindle books take me a long time to get into but this book was done in like under 2 days.
If you're debating it? Read it, it's worth it.
May 4, 2026
The story follows Cathy, an English grad who ends up working for Max. After a “one-time” hookup, Max offers her a proposition she can’t refuse—even if it means risking her heart just to have a piece of him.
I loved this and couldn’t put it down. Sophie’s writing really draws you in, and before you know it, you’re halfway through! I was completely invested in seeing how Cathy and Max’s story would unfold.
Cathy felt like such a relatable character, an itrovert who enjoys staying in and getting lost in her spicy romance books, and finding a book boyfriend 🙋♀️
I’d definitely recommend this especially if you enjoy banter, tension and some spice. I’m so excited to read the second book to see how the story continues and learn more about Max’s past.
4.5 ⭐️
I loved this and couldn’t put it down. Sophie’s writing really draws you in, and before you know it, you’re halfway through! I was completely invested in seeing how Cathy and Max’s story would unfold.
Cathy felt like such a relatable character, an itrovert who enjoys staying in and getting lost in her spicy romance books, and finding a book boyfriend 🙋♀️
I’d definitely recommend this especially if you enjoy banter, tension and some spice. I’m so excited to read the second book to see how the story continues and learn more about Max’s past.
4.5 ⭐️
February 27, 2026
Loved every minute - a slow burn and absolutely worth it!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Amazing, fresh read from a new author
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ - Spicy, but not excessive(!)
The character development is great, dialogue reads like a real conversation, and the spice is a lot of fun (but not gratuitous). Thankfully, the book skips out on some of the more annoying clichés found in a lot of modern romance, so you won't find drama for the sake of drama or feel frustrated with the characters (except one especially bitchy work colleague...).
Really looking forward to seeing what comes next for Cathy and Max!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Amazing, fresh read from a new author
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ - Spicy, but not excessive(!)
The character development is great, dialogue reads like a real conversation, and the spice is a lot of fun (but not gratuitous). Thankfully, the book skips out on some of the more annoying clichés found in a lot of modern romance, so you won't find drama for the sake of drama or feel frustrated with the characters (except one especially bitchy work colleague...).
Really looking forward to seeing what comes next for Cathy and Max!
March 15, 2026
It was so refreshing to read a book with so many relatable dialogues and just overall it felt real. Not every s*x was full of org*sms, Max was not a perfect book boyfriend (in my opinion) but for me that was the point. People are not perfect, they make mistakes and they don’t always say or do the right thing. Can’t wait to know what happens with Cathy and Max next! :) If you want something that’s a little different contemporary romance with slow-burn, a little spice and a millionaire romance this one’s for you!
May 5, 2026
I picked up this book thinking I’d read a few chapters before being a productive member of society… bold of me. Instead, I became Cathy: emotionally invested, slightly obsessed with fictional men, and fully committed to cancelling plans in favour of “just one more chapter” (a lie we all tell ourselves).
Cathy is painfully relatable, if your idea of a perfect night involves snacks, a blanket, and falling in love with men who don’t exist. Honestly, I felt seen. Possibly too seen.
The friendship trio? Elite. Sara, Alison, and Cathy have the kind of dynamic that makes you wish you had a group chat that supportive (and that dramatic). Sara brings the chaos, Alison brings the logic, and together they somehow make it work beautifully. It’s like emotional support meets mild disaster and I loved every second of it.
Now, Max. MAX. This man walked straight in radiating strong “I have secrets and a complicated past” energy. At one point I thought, “Is this giving Christian Grey?”—only for the book to basically wink at me and say, “Relax, he’s not Christian Grey.” I actually laughed out loud. Touché.
But seriously… what is his deal? Who hurt him? I need answers. I am now emotionally invested in uncovering this man’s backstory like it’s my full-time job.
And then, THAT ENDING. Excuse me??? A cliffhanger so rude it should come with a warning label. I was left staring at the last page like it personally betrayed me.
Now I’m here, impatiently waiting for the next book, because I need to know:
Will Cathy and Max figure it out? Will Sara and Cathy fix things? Will I ever emotionally recover?
Highly recommend… just maybe clear your schedule first.
Cathy is painfully relatable, if your idea of a perfect night involves snacks, a blanket, and falling in love with men who don’t exist. Honestly, I felt seen. Possibly too seen.
The friendship trio? Elite. Sara, Alison, and Cathy have the kind of dynamic that makes you wish you had a group chat that supportive (and that dramatic). Sara brings the chaos, Alison brings the logic, and together they somehow make it work beautifully. It’s like emotional support meets mild disaster and I loved every second of it.
Now, Max. MAX. This man walked straight in radiating strong “I have secrets and a complicated past” energy. At one point I thought, “Is this giving Christian Grey?”—only for the book to basically wink at me and say, “Relax, he’s not Christian Grey.” I actually laughed out loud. Touché.
But seriously… what is his deal? Who hurt him? I need answers. I am now emotionally invested in uncovering this man’s backstory like it’s my full-time job.
And then, THAT ENDING. Excuse me??? A cliffhanger so rude it should come with a warning label. I was left staring at the last page like it personally betrayed me.
Now I’m here, impatiently waiting for the next book, because I need to know:
Will Cathy and Max figure it out? Will Sara and Cathy fix things? Will I ever emotionally recover?
Highly recommend… just maybe clear your schedule first.
February 22, 2026
In love with Cathy and Max!
Arghhhh! This book is everything you want in a romance book. The thing that really makes it is the characters. They are so perfectly imperfect and are genuinely some of the most relatable characters I’ve ever had the joy of reading about. Max is just so… there aren’t appropriate words to describe how I feel about that man. I cannot wait for the next book, I NEED to know what happens to these two.
Arghhhh! This book is everything you want in a romance book. The thing that really makes it is the characters. They are so perfectly imperfect and are genuinely some of the most relatable characters I’ve ever had the joy of reading about. Max is just so… there aren’t appropriate words to describe how I feel about that man. I cannot wait for the next book, I NEED to know what happens to these two.
April 1, 2026
All the Words You Shouldn’t Say by Sophie Oswald is a witty, steamy slow-burn romance that blends humor, emotional depth, and messy, real-life relationships. The story follows Cathy and her enigmatic boss as their professional boundaries blur into a complicated, secret arrangement. With strong banter, character growth, and emotional tension, it’s an engaging romance about desire, vulnerability, and self-discovery.
May 10, 2026
I loved this book. It took me back to my early twenties when I’d just started a new “proper” job and quickly learned that the working aspect is actually only a small part of it! There are so many new people (men 🫣) to get to know… (although my story is not quite as exciting as Cathy’s, sadly!)
It brings the perfect amount of smut 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ (in my opinion) but also delves into friendships, lifestyles, confidence, personal hang-ups, office politics, moral dilemmas and relationship issues. It’s funny, it’s witty, it’s thought provoking and it keeps you wanting more. It felt a little “50 shades” at times, but wayyyy more relatable, with less sadism and dominance!!
Cathy is the girl next door type with the confident and worldly best friend, and the rich and mysterious Max clearly has some commitment issues that need to be unpicked!! I cannot wait to find out more about both Max and Cathy in the next instalment (which thankfully I’m about to start reading right now!!). ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
It brings the perfect amount of smut 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ (in my opinion) but also delves into friendships, lifestyles, confidence, personal hang-ups, office politics, moral dilemmas and relationship issues. It’s funny, it’s witty, it’s thought provoking and it keeps you wanting more. It felt a little “50 shades” at times, but wayyyy more relatable, with less sadism and dominance!!
Cathy is the girl next door type with the confident and worldly best friend, and the rich and mysterious Max clearly has some commitment issues that need to be unpicked!! I cannot wait to find out more about both Max and Cathy in the next instalment (which thankfully I’m about to start reading right now!!). ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
February 28, 2026
Top tier romance, I had so much fun reading this and Cathy was so relatable. Lots of yearning and slow burn, super excited to see what comes next!
April 22, 2026
4.5 stars!
Super spicy workplace romance!
Super spicy workplace romance!
April 27, 2026
I thoroughly enjoyed this read, it was super comedic and I couldn’t stop giggling. It has a lovely flow and it has just the right amount of spice in. Perfect for Rom-com lovers 🩷
May 13, 2026
I absolutely loved this book. The constant tension between Cathy and Max is incredibly compelling—I found myself always wanting to keep reading just to see how their relationship would develop. Cathy is such a relatable character: her love of fantasy men, preference for staying in with a book over going out, and her mix of shyness and confidence all felt very real.
The slow-burn romance and sense of yearning between the characters is beautifully written and keeps you hooked from start to finish. I’m already so excited to read book two and see how Cathy and Max continue to grow together.
A small note for future readers: the steamy moments are definitely not ideal for public reading—I learned that the hard way on a train!
The slow-burn romance and sense of yearning between the characters is beautifully written and keeps you hooked from start to finish. I’m already so excited to read book two and see how Cathy and Max continue to grow together.
A small note for future readers: the steamy moments are definitely not ideal for public reading—I learned that the hard way on a train!
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