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Vesper
Fiercely witty and sharply narrated, VESPER is an anti-romance literary novel about independence, love, and self-discovery through the eyes of consultant Vesper. Blending the cultural zeitgeist of Sex and the City with the philosophical depth of Milan Kundera, it’s perfect for fans of Dolly Alderton, Sarah Rose Etter and Adelle Waldman.
Vesper Elsegood is in love. With being single.
She can't understand why any of her friends would want to settle down. Because if she's learnt anything about New York's ruthless dating scene, it's that love is an ever-changing concept, a silly game, and there are rarely any winners.
But when Caspian walks into her life, an enigmatic and ambitious entrepreneur with a vision for launching a prestigious global prize to celebrate philosophical thinking, Vesper is momentarily undone. And as the chemistry between them intensifies, she soon finds herself re-examining everything—her relationships, her career, her ability to rewrite her own story.
In this restless city, where everyone seems fixated on either finding themselves or finding their perfect match, Vesper must decide whether she's met the one she wasn't looking for, or if she's the only one she really needs…
A bold and unapologetic observation of what it means to be a single woman in New York City, Marks' debut novel is equal parts emotional portrait, cultural inquiry, and contemporary coming-of-age—a story about subverting gender norms, dismantling inherited narratives, and choosing a life that is wholly one’s own.
Vesper Elsegood is in love. With being single.
She can't understand why any of her friends would want to settle down. Because if she's learnt anything about New York's ruthless dating scene, it's that love is an ever-changing concept, a silly game, and there are rarely any winners.
But when Caspian walks into her life, an enigmatic and ambitious entrepreneur with a vision for launching a prestigious global prize to celebrate philosophical thinking, Vesper is momentarily undone. And as the chemistry between them intensifies, she soon finds herself re-examining everything—her relationships, her career, her ability to rewrite her own story.
In this restless city, where everyone seems fixated on either finding themselves or finding their perfect match, Vesper must decide whether she's met the one she wasn't looking for, or if she's the only one she really needs…
A bold and unapologetic observation of what it means to be a single woman in New York City, Marks' debut novel is equal parts emotional portrait, cultural inquiry, and contemporary coming-of-age—a story about subverting gender norms, dismantling inherited narratives, and choosing a life that is wholly one’s own.
360 pages, Hardcover
First published May 26, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
March 5, 2026
This is not a romance novel. And that, to me, is the most fascinating thing about this book.
When I got the message that my request to read an advance copy of this book was granted, I realized I'd simply presumed (without giving it any thought) the author to be a woman. What I thought was going to be a literary exploration of navigating life as a single woman and the dating scene in NYC, actually turned out to be a man's exploration of writing about life as a single woman and the dating scene in NYC. A man in finance, too. I felt challenged by all of this, and couldn't stop thinking about what it means to me and my experience of the novel. Deciding to give it an honest shot, I wondered if I could even enjoy a work like that – and what that says about me.
Our main character, the contemporary woman whose lifestyle and social circle definitely evoke Sex and the City vibes in deuxmoi times, lives in an Instagram depiction of New York City bustle that seems lovingly put together. I cannot imagine anything but earnest enjoyment being had while painting this picture, and the result is largely a very light-hearted, easy read. It's the New York where yellow cabs and Chinese takeout have been replaced with DoorDash and Uber, the New York where paparazzi and 'IG update accs' camp outside restaurants for hours waiting for Taylor Swift to emerge with her friends. It feels familiar and endearing, the accurate references kept pleasantly surprising me, but it also left me feeling detached at times.
Try as I did, I'll never be able to conclusively answer whether my bias was too much to overcome or whether my experience honestly reflects the quality of the book. There are large chunks of the book that just never came to life for me, never felt real. A lot of interesting ideas felt hinted at, mentioned, but not deeply explored. Female greetings always being a hiii! and never a hi! threatened to send me over the edge. I worried I would go away saying the whole book fell flat for me, but was ultimately rewarded for my determination to see it through the end.
While the philosophical notes sometimes rang hollow for me, other times they sung brilliantly. I see what it's trying to do, and I don't mind it. Where it truly sparkled and blazed, however, was the romance. The chemistry was stunning, it gave me butterflies, it swept me off my feet. And that, that changed everything for me. This is not a romance novel, and the romance is excellent, before it forces you back to reality and demands you reflect on how you got swept up, exactly. Nearing the end you're handed a simple but profound reflection on self worth, and it concludes with a reason to return to and re-evaluate the main character's changes of heart rather than dismiss them.
The way the book ends might prove to be polarizing, but I urge other readers to consider how the book puts you in a position where you cannot disregard any of the realities you're presented with about Vesper's relationship to relationships. There is value and truth to each perspective she experiences, and there is no single right answer to be drawn from her story.
The whole time I read this book, I kept asking myself who is this guy? Why is he writing this? What is he basing this on? And my questions were answered extensively upon reaching the acknowledgments. A list of works he used as inspiration for the voice of his female narrator, a list of male authors whose exploration of the female voice he found encouraging or inspiring. It confirmed a feeling I'd built as I progressed into the novel: that there is a real sincerity to Vesper, and a real vulnerability in deciding to create it. Something I can only appreciate, and something worthwhile.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
When I got the message that my request to read an advance copy of this book was granted, I realized I'd simply presumed (without giving it any thought) the author to be a woman. What I thought was going to be a literary exploration of navigating life as a single woman and the dating scene in NYC, actually turned out to be a man's exploration of writing about life as a single woman and the dating scene in NYC. A man in finance, too. I felt challenged by all of this, and couldn't stop thinking about what it means to me and my experience of the novel. Deciding to give it an honest shot, I wondered if I could even enjoy a work like that – and what that says about me.
Our main character, the contemporary woman whose lifestyle and social circle definitely evoke Sex and the City vibes in deuxmoi times, lives in an Instagram depiction of New York City bustle that seems lovingly put together. I cannot imagine anything but earnest enjoyment being had while painting this picture, and the result is largely a very light-hearted, easy read. It's the New York where yellow cabs and Chinese takeout have been replaced with DoorDash and Uber, the New York where paparazzi and 'IG update accs' camp outside restaurants for hours waiting for Taylor Swift to emerge with her friends. It feels familiar and endearing, the accurate references kept pleasantly surprising me, but it also left me feeling detached at times.
Try as I did, I'll never be able to conclusively answer whether my bias was too much to overcome or whether my experience honestly reflects the quality of the book. There are large chunks of the book that just never came to life for me, never felt real. A lot of interesting ideas felt hinted at, mentioned, but not deeply explored. Female greetings always being a hiii! and never a hi! threatened to send me over the edge. I worried I would go away saying the whole book fell flat for me, but was ultimately rewarded for my determination to see it through the end.
While the philosophical notes sometimes rang hollow for me, other times they sung brilliantly. I see what it's trying to do, and I don't mind it. Where it truly sparkled and blazed, however, was the romance. The chemistry was stunning, it gave me butterflies, it swept me off my feet. And that, that changed everything for me. This is not a romance novel, and the romance is excellent, before it forces you back to reality and demands you reflect on how you got swept up, exactly. Nearing the end you're handed a simple but profound reflection on self worth, and it concludes with a reason to return to and re-evaluate the main character's changes of heart rather than dismiss them.
The way the book ends might prove to be polarizing, but I urge other readers to consider how the book puts you in a position where you cannot disregard any of the realities you're presented with about Vesper's relationship to relationships. There is value and truth to each perspective she experiences, and there is no single right answer to be drawn from her story.
The whole time I read this book, I kept asking myself who is this guy? Why is he writing this? What is he basing this on? And my questions were answered extensively upon reaching the acknowledgments. A list of works he used as inspiration for the voice of his female narrator, a list of male authors whose exploration of the female voice he found encouraging or inspiring. It confirmed a feeling I'd built as I progressed into the novel: that there is a real sincerity to Vesper, and a real vulnerability in deciding to create it. Something I can only appreciate, and something worthwhile.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
March 9, 2026
This book is marketed as an anti-romance Sex and the City and “unapologetic observation of what it means to be a single woman in New York City.” If these are supposed to represent real women in NYC (I am one; the author is not) they certainly aren’t like any of the women I know. No, these are the 1% - an elitist bubble where everyone went to an Ivy League and works in finance or owns their own business, where all interactions feel schmoozy and everyone’s personality is basically just their CV. No one is queer, no one is poor, and NO one leaves the West Village (except to go to St. Tropez). The pretentiousness of these characters was turned up to a comical degree, but it was written with such sincerity that I couldn’t quite tell if the author was in on the joke.
I found the main character especially hard to root for because, well, who is she? What does she care about? Does she have hobbies? Feelings? Vesper does not want to be with a man, and yet her entire internal world and all manner of thought, energy, and conversation with loved ones was about men. If this book was Sex and the City then I was Miranda retreating from the breakfast table and throwing on my blue puffer coat going, “how does it happen that four such smart women have nothing to talk about but boyfriends? Does it always have to be about them?” Also I think Vesper might be an alcoholic?
2.5 stars because the writer has skill - the book flowed well, and if your New York City fantasy is one where everyone is rich and hot and drunk, you might love this.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kinderspiel Press for the ARC. This is an honest review and totally subjective.
I found the main character especially hard to root for because, well, who is she? What does she care about? Does she have hobbies? Feelings? Vesper does not want to be with a man, and yet her entire internal world and all manner of thought, energy, and conversation with loved ones was about men. If this book was Sex and the City then I was Miranda retreating from the breakfast table and throwing on my blue puffer coat going, “how does it happen that four such smart women have nothing to talk about but boyfriends? Does it always have to be about them?” Also I think Vesper might be an alcoholic?
2.5 stars because the writer has skill - the book flowed well, and if your New York City fantasy is one where everyone is rich and hot and drunk, you might love this.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kinderspiel Press for the ARC. This is an honest review and totally subjective.
April 17, 2026
When you finish a book and find yourself staring at a wall, questioning every life choice you’ve ever made… that’s when you know it’s going to stay with you for a while.
Firstly, I am genuinely mind blown that this book was written by a man. The majority of the story is told from the FMC, Vesper’s, perspective, and the level of relatability was almost unsettling. I mean that as the highest compliment.
This book is marketed as an anti-romance, with a strong focus on modern dating in New York. At first, it gives definite Sex and the City vibes, particularly the dynamic between Carrie and Mr. Big. But the deeper you get, the more you realise it’s not really about romance at all. It’s about perception.
One quote that completely encapsulated the experience for me:
“It’s about how dramatically different the perspectives of people can be despite there being only one truth.”
As you become deeply invested in Vesper’s life and her determination to remain independent in a world obsessed with settling down, the story begins to unfold in layers. It’s philosophical, introspective, and quietly intense in a way that sneaks up on you.
The pacing is slow, almost deceptively so, until you reach the end and realise you’ve been completely unravelled. By then, it’s too late. Everything has happened. Choices have been made. And what’s left is this unsettling reality: two completely different perceptions of the same story, but only one truth… and no one will ever truly know it.
I feel like there are so many different takeaways from this book and that’s the beauty of it. So many views. Nobody’s wrong. Nobody’s right. It just is your perception.
Firstly, I am genuinely mind blown that this book was written by a man. The majority of the story is told from the FMC, Vesper’s, perspective, and the level of relatability was almost unsettling. I mean that as the highest compliment.
This book is marketed as an anti-romance, with a strong focus on modern dating in New York. At first, it gives definite Sex and the City vibes, particularly the dynamic between Carrie and Mr. Big. But the deeper you get, the more you realise it’s not really about romance at all. It’s about perception.
One quote that completely encapsulated the experience for me:
“It’s about how dramatically different the perspectives of people can be despite there being only one truth.”
As you become deeply invested in Vesper’s life and her determination to remain independent in a world obsessed with settling down, the story begins to unfold in layers. It’s philosophical, introspective, and quietly intense in a way that sneaks up on you.
The pacing is slow, almost deceptively so, until you reach the end and realise you’ve been completely unravelled. By then, it’s too late. Everything has happened. Choices have been made. And what’s left is this unsettling reality: two completely different perceptions of the same story, but only one truth… and no one will ever truly know it.
I feel like there are so many different takeaways from this book and that’s the beauty of it. So many views. Nobody’s wrong. Nobody’s right. It just is your perception.
April 12, 2026
At first I was excited for this book because it says that it‘s an anti-romance and „sex and the city“ vibe but sadly this fell flat.
First of all, all the women in this book talk and think about is men, dating and nothing else. Is that what the author thinks all women think about and talk about with their female friends? It really felt like the male author was trying to give us the „sex and the city“ feel but totally messed up to give any of the characters any depth. Vesper really felt like a girl that only thinks about men, like 24/7 which just isn‘t realistic especially if she didn‘t want to commit to anyone but still all she ever did and thought about was „men, men and men“. I really wanted to like this book and it had some good parts but in the grand scheme of things it just didn‘t deliver.
First of all, all the women in this book talk and think about is men, dating and nothing else. Is that what the author thinks all women think about and talk about with their female friends? It really felt like the male author was trying to give us the „sex and the city“ feel but totally messed up to give any of the characters any depth. Vesper really felt like a girl that only thinks about men, like 24/7 which just isn‘t realistic especially if she didn‘t want to commit to anyone but still all she ever did and thought about was „men, men and men“. I really wanted to like this book and it had some good parts but in the grand scheme of things it just didn‘t deliver.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thanks to NetGalley & Kinderspiel Press for the arc!
**3.5 stars** I enjoyed this way more than I thought I would! There were definite moments where I raised my eyebrows or tilted my head in confusion because some instances felt unrealistic but it was still a fun read.
Being single in NYC is not easy but not for Vesper Elsegood. Out of her group of friends, she can’t figure out why anyone would want to settle down. Though many will argue dating in NYC is not for the faint of heart and veers on being hopeless, Vesper embraces the ever changing dates and avoids commitment. That is, until she meets the handsome, enigmatic entrepreneur, Caspian. As their connection grows, Vesper questions everything about her current mindset on dating which also sends her in a spiral, rethinking her whole life choices.
Shortly after finishing this book, I read the GR reviews and was shocked by the amount of backlash this book is receiving. I can see the issues that readers (women) have in many aspects of the book especially because this book was written by a man but I treated this book purely as satire and had more fun reading it as such. It also made me think of all the contemporary romances out there written by women writing male POVs and I couldn’t help but think they were also unrealistic. Though there is some truth to what the dating life in NYC is like, it’s of course not a definitive representation.
From the get go, I loved the start of the story. Vesper had me giggling and laughing with her circle of friends. It very much felt like watching a romcom–a “How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days” vibe with your girlfriends, drinking martinis at bars, out in the city, checking out the slim pickings. The story was very easy to follow as it was moving at such a rapid pace, I almost wish it slowed down. Vesper went on a girls trip to St. Tropez to which I believe they stayed for a week but this whole trip was wrapped up in a chapter. We could have really explored the fling that happened then. By the 70% mark, things started to really slow down but I was able to push through to the ending.
I liked the prose and the sporadic inserts of the male’s POVs, I found it hilarious. There were definitely a couple of instances where I thought to myself, “Oh yeah I do that too. Haha”. The ending received some polarizing reviews but I didn’t mind it. I do wish we stewed on this revelation a little longer. So was this an accurate depiction of what being a single woman is like in NYC? Perhaps not, but it was a fun read regardless.
**3.5 stars** I enjoyed this way more than I thought I would! There were definite moments where I raised my eyebrows or tilted my head in confusion because some instances felt unrealistic but it was still a fun read.
Being single in NYC is not easy but not for Vesper Elsegood. Out of her group of friends, she can’t figure out why anyone would want to settle down. Though many will argue dating in NYC is not for the faint of heart and veers on being hopeless, Vesper embraces the ever changing dates and avoids commitment. That is, until she meets the handsome, enigmatic entrepreneur, Caspian. As their connection grows, Vesper questions everything about her current mindset on dating which also sends her in a spiral, rethinking her whole life choices.
Shortly after finishing this book, I read the GR reviews and was shocked by the amount of backlash this book is receiving. I can see the issues that readers (women) have in many aspects of the book especially because this book was written by a man but I treated this book purely as satire and had more fun reading it as such. It also made me think of all the contemporary romances out there written by women writing male POVs and I couldn’t help but think they were also unrealistic. Though there is some truth to what the dating life in NYC is like, it’s of course not a definitive representation.
From the get go, I loved the start of the story. Vesper had me giggling and laughing with her circle of friends. It very much felt like watching a romcom–a “How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days” vibe with your girlfriends, drinking martinis at bars, out in the city, checking out the slim pickings. The story was very easy to follow as it was moving at such a rapid pace, I almost wish it slowed down. Vesper went on a girls trip to St. Tropez to which I believe they stayed for a week but this whole trip was wrapped up in a chapter. We could have really explored the fling that happened then. By the 70% mark, things started to really slow down but I was able to push through to the ending.
I liked the prose and the sporadic inserts of the male’s POVs, I found it hilarious. There were definitely a couple of instances where I thought to myself, “Oh yeah I do that too. Haha”. The ending received some polarizing reviews but I didn’t mind it. I do wish we stewed on this revelation a little longer. So was this an accurate depiction of what being a single woman is like in NYC? Perhaps not, but it was a fun read regardless.
Did Not Finish
April 5, 2026First of all I would like to thank NetGalley and Kinderspiel Press for the advance copy of Vesper by Evan Marks.
Unfortunately I am unable to give a fair rating since I DNF’d at 35%. I was attracted to this particular novel by the interesting cover and once I read the description I was all in and considered this a must read.
The debut novel is described as an anti-romance literary novel with the premise being exploring the life of a single woman in New York with Sex and the City type vibes. I for one did not feel any vibes at all (Sex and the City or otherwise.) While there were a few entertaining lines or situations, I just wasn’t feeling any kind of story line really developing and had no attachment to Vesper at all
I tried to give this a fair chance before giving up but honestly I was bored of reading about Vesper’s job in so much detail when it had little significance. Other situations, such as the trip to St Tropez, just felt rushed and messy.
I will note that it must be difficult as a male author to portray a female and I didn’t think that the author did a bad job, especially this being a debut novel.
I didn’t dislike this book but the whole vibe of the novel was just not working for me.
Unfortunately I am unable to give a fair rating since I DNF’d at 35%. I was attracted to this particular novel by the interesting cover and once I read the description I was all in and considered this a must read.
The debut novel is described as an anti-romance literary novel with the premise being exploring the life of a single woman in New York with Sex and the City type vibes. I for one did not feel any vibes at all (Sex and the City or otherwise.) While there were a few entertaining lines or situations, I just wasn’t feeling any kind of story line really developing and had no attachment to Vesper at all
I tried to give this a fair chance before giving up but honestly I was bored of reading about Vesper’s job in so much detail when it had little significance. Other situations, such as the trip to St Tropez, just felt rushed and messy.
I will note that it must be difficult as a male author to portray a female and I didn’t think that the author did a bad job, especially this being a debut novel.
I didn’t dislike this book but the whole vibe of the novel was just not working for me.
May 2, 2026
I started out thinking, oh an anti-romance? Nice!
But this book was just TEDIOUS
Glad it’s over but hate the ending.
But this book was just TEDIOUS
Glad it’s over but hate the ending.
June 7, 2026
What did I just read?!? The author's bio gave me the answers I was looking for, a debut novel by a male writer attempting a female protagonist and name checking Sex and the City as inspiration. Does this man not realize that the show went off the air over 20 years ago, and it was problematic back then, let alone now.
Vesper and her girlfriends have rules about keeping a roster of men to date and if any of them get too clingy, cut them loose. No one needs to catch feelings, when there's fun to be had. It goes on for too long just repeating this at brunches and boozy nights out dancing (like a montage of seasons one and two of SATC) until a chance meeting with an older guy while on vacation in San Tropez. Caspian, is a silver fox with a sexy accent. Naturally their paths will cross again back in Manhattan, but weirdly he now has dark brown hair - Vesper even comments on it. Such an odd, meaningless choice by the writer.
Of course Vesper is really smart and good at her job, but always greets everyone with "hiii!!!". This gave me the ick, but now I realize it's just how this guy thinks women speak, rather than a depiction of a real woman who might shriek with her friends but not at work or on dates.
Anyway of course Vesper and Caspian (why not Tristan and Isolde if we're trying to be pretentious?), begin dating and she stops adding to her roster, and dates only him but of course her sister and various members of the friend group have to tell her that she's caught feelings before she realizes it. And even then we have to have the discovery of internet dirt in the form of an old article about him that didn't paint him in the best light, followed soon after by the random woman warning Vesper that she's just the flavor of the month. Caspian neatly and promptly explains everything and yet the relationship ends over a misunderstanding that she NEVER lets him explain.
She was so unable to know her own mind until half a dozen people told her how she was feeling, and she has TWICE before jumped to conclusions about him and been proven wrong, but now, NOW she is sure that it's so over that she doesn't need to read any messages, listen to any voicemail, nothing. Burn it all down. And then we are to believe that this grown ass woman, who is so never ever getting back together, needs to miss nearly a week of work because she's too heartbroken to function. No sir, no one is risking getting fired over a break up, especially when we're supposed to be a strong independent woman who loves being single and having fun.
Then far too late into the book one of the friends asks if Vesper had slept with Caspian and I was really confused. They had been dating for some time and had taken a trip to San Francisco together and she had spent the night and I guessed it was closed door romance but now was faced with the idea that the author had positioned these women with their dating rosters wanting them to still be chaste?!? What is wrong with adult women having sex lives? And if we were to believe that Caspian and Vesper had a physical relationship why have a friend question her about it?
So finally after running into the guy she dumped at the beginning of the book, for the crime of letting her know he wanted to be exclusive, she has a weak ass epiphany and remembers how much fun being single, ugh. But no, we didn't read a million pages to end up right where we started because we get an Epilogue! Except it's not really an epilogue but a retelling of the big misunderstanding from Caspian's point of view. And indeed, it was just a silly misunderstanding and he actually had been prepared to tell her that he loved her. The End. WTH!?!?
What kind of bullshit ending is that? What's the takeaway supposed to be? Being single is fun as long as you never give people the benefit of the doubt? Or maybe, men will fall for you but if you don't read their text messages they won't try to speak to you in person. I mean seriously, what is the point of giving us this stupid epilogue where he's decided to tell her how he feels but then he somehow didn't care enough to go to her place and speak in person, or try reaching out to her sister, whom she lives with to intervene. Or was it just included to show us that men do suck and Vesper really is better off single?
This whole thing felt like a huge waste of time.
Vesper and her girlfriends have rules about keeping a roster of men to date and if any of them get too clingy, cut them loose. No one needs to catch feelings, when there's fun to be had. It goes on for too long just repeating this at brunches and boozy nights out dancing (like a montage of seasons one and two of SATC) until a chance meeting with an older guy while on vacation in San Tropez. Caspian, is a silver fox with a sexy accent. Naturally their paths will cross again back in Manhattan, but weirdly he now has dark brown hair - Vesper even comments on it. Such an odd, meaningless choice by the writer.
Of course Vesper is really smart and good at her job, but always greets everyone with "hiii!!!". This gave me the ick, but now I realize it's just how this guy thinks women speak, rather than a depiction of a real woman who might shriek with her friends but not at work or on dates.
Anyway of course Vesper and Caspian (why not Tristan and Isolde if we're trying to be pretentious?), begin dating and she stops adding to her roster, and dates only him but of course her sister and various members of the friend group have to tell her that she's caught feelings before she realizes it. And even then we have to have the discovery of internet dirt in the form of an old article about him that didn't paint him in the best light, followed soon after by the random woman warning Vesper that she's just the flavor of the month. Caspian neatly and promptly explains everything and yet the relationship ends over a misunderstanding that she NEVER lets him explain.
She was so unable to know her own mind until half a dozen people told her how she was feeling, and she has TWICE before jumped to conclusions about him and been proven wrong, but now, NOW she is sure that it's so over that she doesn't need to read any messages, listen to any voicemail, nothing. Burn it all down. And then we are to believe that this grown ass woman, who is so never ever getting back together, needs to miss nearly a week of work because she's too heartbroken to function. No sir, no one is risking getting fired over a break up, especially when we're supposed to be a strong independent woman who loves being single and having fun.
Then far too late into the book one of the friends asks if Vesper had slept with Caspian and I was really confused. They had been dating for some time and had taken a trip to San Francisco together and she had spent the night and I guessed it was closed door romance but now was faced with the idea that the author had positioned these women with their dating rosters wanting them to still be chaste?!? What is wrong with adult women having sex lives? And if we were to believe that Caspian and Vesper had a physical relationship why have a friend question her about it?
So finally after running into the guy she dumped at the beginning of the book, for the crime of letting her know he wanted to be exclusive, she has a weak ass epiphany and remembers how much fun being single, ugh. But no, we didn't read a million pages to end up right where we started because we get an Epilogue! Except it's not really an epilogue but a retelling of the big misunderstanding from Caspian's point of view. And indeed, it was just a silly misunderstanding and he actually had been prepared to tell her that he loved her. The End. WTH!?!?
What kind of bullshit ending is that? What's the takeaway supposed to be? Being single is fun as long as you never give people the benefit of the doubt? Or maybe, men will fall for you but if you don't read their text messages they won't try to speak to you in person. I mean seriously, what is the point of giving us this stupid epilogue where he's decided to tell her how he feels but then he somehow didn't care enough to go to her place and speak in person, or try reaching out to her sister, whom she lives with to intervene. Or was it just included to show us that men do suck and Vesper really is better off single?
This whole thing felt like a huge waste of time.
Did Not Finish
May 18, 2026DNF at 61%
I tried to power through this one to see where it goes but, at past halfway, there was no way the payoff was going to align with my expectations.
This is marketed as an anti-romance book, which to me meant I would be in the head of a young woman in NYC trying to figure out life. Part of the blurb says
"novel is equal parts emotional portrait, cultural inquiry, and contemporary coming-of-age—a story about subverting gender norms, dismantling inherited narratives, and choosing a life that is wholly one’s own."
So I imagined an exploration on self-growth, personal discovery and the like. What I read was not that, it details a woman who doesn't want to commit, but speaks only about dating, hates her job, and enjoys being on the fringes of the elite jet-setting life of the NY elite.
The only reason this isn't a romance is because there is no happy ending (as stated from other reviews as I didn't get there). At 60% in, Vesper's story has been entirely focused on her dating life and very little on character growth. She remains exactly the same as the Vesper from page 1 (I can't speak to the end book Vesper) and I haven't seen her challenged in any meaningful way. There is likely commentary towards the end that may have answered some of my questions but given the over 200 pages of setup following Vesper and her single train of thought (men), I just could not be convinced to care.
The delivery is neither heavy-handed enough to be clearly satirical nor subtle enough to feel realistic. I think the intent for searing social commentary may have been there, but this one was simply not for me; I'm getting Pineapple Street vibes.
Thank you to NetGalley, Kinderspiel Press, and Evan Marks for the advanced ebook copy.
I tried to power through this one to see where it goes but, at past halfway, there was no way the payoff was going to align with my expectations.
This is marketed as an anti-romance book, which to me meant I would be in the head of a young woman in NYC trying to figure out life. Part of the blurb says
"novel is equal parts emotional portrait, cultural inquiry, and contemporary coming-of-age—a story about subverting gender norms, dismantling inherited narratives, and choosing a life that is wholly one’s own."
So I imagined an exploration on self-growth, personal discovery and the like. What I read was not that, it details a woman who doesn't want to commit, but speaks only about dating, hates her job, and enjoys being on the fringes of the elite jet-setting life of the NY elite.
The only reason this isn't a romance is because there is no happy ending (as stated from other reviews as I didn't get there). At 60% in, Vesper's story has been entirely focused on her dating life and very little on character growth. She remains exactly the same as the Vesper from page 1 (I can't speak to the end book Vesper) and I haven't seen her challenged in any meaningful way. There is likely commentary towards the end that may have answered some of my questions but given the over 200 pages of setup following Vesper and her single train of thought (men), I just could not be convinced to care.
The delivery is neither heavy-handed enough to be clearly satirical nor subtle enough to feel realistic. I think the intent for searing social commentary may have been there, but this one was simply not for me; I'm getting Pineapple Street vibes.
Thank you to NetGalley, Kinderspiel Press, and Evan Marks for the advanced ebook copy.
Read
March 8, 2026Vesper by Evan Marks is an intriguing upcoming novel that has already begun attracting early reader interest ahead of its expected release in 2026. With its substantial length and developing reception, the book promises a narrative that invites readers into a layered and immersive story.
While details surrounding the plot remain relatively limited in early descriptions, the anticipation surrounding Vesper suggests a work that aims to deliver a compelling reading experience. Early reactions indicate that the novel offers elements of thoughtful storytelling and character exploration, setting the stage for a book that could resonate with readers looking for engaging contemporary fiction.
As the publication date approaches, Vesper is positioned to generate increasing curiosity among readers who enjoy discovering new voices and upcoming titles. The novel’s early ratings indicate that it is already building momentum within the reading community.
Overall, Vesper represents an upcoming release that readers may want to keep on their radar. With its forthcoming publication and growing early attention, Evan Marks’s novel has the potential to attract readers eager to explore new literary works as they arrive.
While details surrounding the plot remain relatively limited in early descriptions, the anticipation surrounding Vesper suggests a work that aims to deliver a compelling reading experience. Early reactions indicate that the novel offers elements of thoughtful storytelling and character exploration, setting the stage for a book that could resonate with readers looking for engaging contemporary fiction.
As the publication date approaches, Vesper is positioned to generate increasing curiosity among readers who enjoy discovering new voices and upcoming titles. The novel’s early ratings indicate that it is already building momentum within the reading community.
Overall, Vesper represents an upcoming release that readers may want to keep on their radar. With its forthcoming publication and growing early attention, Evan Marks’s novel has the potential to attract readers eager to explore new literary works as they arrive.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
*** Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC
I couldn't put it down!!! I loved it. I hated it. And I loved it again.
Vesper By Evan Marks is about a 20 something Woman (Vesper) with commitment issues navigating the dating scene in New York City. She's lost in her career, drowning at work and distracting herself with partying and endless marry-go-round of surface level dating.
As a 20 something in nyc I am always drawn to stories about other 20 somethings navigating their lives in the city.
First, let me say that I could not put this book down. I read it in two days flat.
Second, I am torn and don't know how to feel about the direction it went in. Nothing in Vespers life really changed at the end of the book. She got her heart broken & negotiated some time off work from work. And I don't believe the character would come back from her time away with anything to show for it but a good tan. But seeing as this was always supposed to be an anti-romance book it was unrealistic of me to expect a happily ever after for Vesper. Perhaps the very idea of Vesper learning emotional maturity so readily is a fairytale.
*** the following portion of this review contains spoilers***
As frustrating as this book was at times that's what made it good. It wasn't just some fluffy love story. It felt like real life. And in real life things don't always work out, there's rarely a happily ever after. And we don't get the full story, especially if we won't listen to it.
I couldn't put it down!!! I loved it. I hated it. And I loved it again.
Vesper By Evan Marks is about a 20 something Woman (Vesper) with commitment issues navigating the dating scene in New York City. She's lost in her career, drowning at work and distracting herself with partying and endless marry-go-round of surface level dating.
As a 20 something in nyc I am always drawn to stories about other 20 somethings navigating their lives in the city.
First, let me say that I could not put this book down. I read it in two days flat.
Second, I am torn and don't know how to feel about the direction it went in. Nothing in Vespers life really changed at the end of the book. She got her heart broken & negotiated some time off work from work. And I don't believe the character would come back from her time away with anything to show for it but a good tan. But seeing as this was always supposed to be an anti-romance book it was unrealistic of me to expect a happily ever after for Vesper. Perhaps the very idea of Vesper learning emotional maturity so readily is a fairytale.
*** the following portion of this review contains spoilers***
As frustrating as this book was at times that's what made it good. It wasn't just some fluffy love story. It felt like real life. And in real life things don't always work out, there's rarely a happily ever after. And we don't get the full story, especially if we won't listen to it.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Vesper is a book that I was drawn to by the promise of this mix of Sex and the City & Milan Kundera. I don't think the promise was made truthfully. Yes, I did see where the story tried to hint at a Sex and the City lifestyle but it did not deliver from my perspective.
There are multiple things I need to touch on:
1. The writing is good. Not pretentious at all, and not lacking in grammar skills either - pretty easy to read. That being said, this book reads very british english to me. Aside from some name drops of NYC streets and parks, my brain is convinced it all took place in London. All the characters phrased their lines in a british manner of speaking, you cannot convince me otherwise. And no, her ONE year at Oxford doesn't explain it.
2. The plot is weak. I can live with this, I have done so in the past and found great books with a slim plot so it's not a major turn off for me. Let's call this one a story that's supposed to make you feel and think as opposed to those that make you hold on by the edge of your seat.
3. I felt like the set-up of Vesper's lifestyle was a bit too long, I was losing interest - probably because it wasn't as Sex-and-the-City as it said it would be. I also didn't think that using first person narrative for ALL the male POVs was a great idea - I get it may be innovative and original (I haven't seen it before) but I kept feeling tricked into thinking "hey, there he is, the MMC! Oh wait, no it's not."
4. I was probably at the 40 or 50% mark when I realized the author is a man (just didn't pay attention to it initially) and it just started to click for me - THIS is why all these female characters in the book are so bland. It's like someone was trying to make them seem colorful and interesting but was failing and it just left me totally uncurious about them. A man was trying to make women seem interesting for other women - because let's face it, when a man wants to make women seem interesting to other men, it's mostly things that have to do with her allure, her sex appeal, her mysteriousness, things that make them want to learn more about her, that keep them hooked.
5. It gave off HUGE Fifty shades of Gray vibes with the whole private jet, houses on each coast, multimillionaire hunk that's super smart and the super witty and sharp woman that falls for him.
*SPOILER*
6. Major plot hole - why did Caspian never try and explain things to Vesper? Especially given his true feelings. This is something I wondered about in all her time convalescing from the breakup. The only thing that made sense was he must have been guilty. Which as it turns out, he wasn't. So I don't buy it.
7. I get this isn't a romance novel (although it would have saved it, in my book at least) but there's no mention of them having sex. For such cool, young, and smart people like these two... it just feels weird knowing they didn't sleep together. I remember one of her friends asking her about it but she was vague in her reply so I drew my own conclusion - that they didn't. Even if they did and I misunderstood the paragraph, why brush it off like that and not dive into more emotions and feelings for that very reason? Just doesn't make much sense to me either way.
8. The ending coming full circle is a nice touch.
While this was an up-and-down read for me, I do think Evan Marks has room to grow into a wonderful writer and am curious about his new novel (some mystery in there, from what I read). He was very brave to take this challenge on, of writing a woman's POV and he did a much better job than many.
Thank you to Netgalley for this ARC. I do appreciate it so much and am very grateful for the opportunity!
There are multiple things I need to touch on:
1. The writing is good. Not pretentious at all, and not lacking in grammar skills either - pretty easy to read. That being said, this book reads very british english to me. Aside from some name drops of NYC streets and parks, my brain is convinced it all took place in London. All the characters phrased their lines in a british manner of speaking, you cannot convince me otherwise. And no, her ONE year at Oxford doesn't explain it.
2. The plot is weak. I can live with this, I have done so in the past and found great books with a slim plot so it's not a major turn off for me. Let's call this one a story that's supposed to make you feel and think as opposed to those that make you hold on by the edge of your seat.
3. I felt like the set-up of Vesper's lifestyle was a bit too long, I was losing interest - probably because it wasn't as Sex-and-the-City as it said it would be. I also didn't think that using first person narrative for ALL the male POVs was a great idea - I get it may be innovative and original (I haven't seen it before) but I kept feeling tricked into thinking "hey, there he is, the MMC! Oh wait, no it's not."
4. I was probably at the 40 or 50% mark when I realized the author is a man (just didn't pay attention to it initially) and it just started to click for me - THIS is why all these female characters in the book are so bland. It's like someone was trying to make them seem colorful and interesting but was failing and it just left me totally uncurious about them. A man was trying to make women seem interesting for other women - because let's face it, when a man wants to make women seem interesting to other men, it's mostly things that have to do with her allure, her sex appeal, her mysteriousness, things that make them want to learn more about her, that keep them hooked.
5. It gave off HUGE Fifty shades of Gray vibes with the whole private jet, houses on each coast, multimillionaire hunk that's super smart and the super witty and sharp woman that falls for him.
*SPOILER*
6. Major plot hole - why did Caspian never try and explain things to Vesper? Especially given his true feelings. This is something I wondered about in all her time convalescing from the breakup. The only thing that made sense was he must have been guilty. Which as it turns out, he wasn't. So I don't buy it.
7. I get this isn't a romance novel (although it would have saved it, in my book at least) but there's no mention of them having sex. For such cool, young, and smart people like these two... it just feels weird knowing they didn't sleep together. I remember one of her friends asking her about it but she was vague in her reply so I drew my own conclusion - that they didn't. Even if they did and I misunderstood the paragraph, why brush it off like that and not dive into more emotions and feelings for that very reason? Just doesn't make much sense to me either way.
8. The ending coming full circle is a nice touch.
While this was an up-and-down read for me, I do think Evan Marks has room to grow into a wonderful writer and am curious about his new novel (some mystery in there, from what I read). He was very brave to take this challenge on, of writing a woman's POV and he did a much better job than many.
Thank you to Netgalley for this ARC. I do appreciate it so much and am very grateful for the opportunity!
June 10, 2026
At the heart of life and happiness lie human connections and relationships. It has been this way since time immemorial and remains true today, whether in the great nation of America or elsewhere in the world.
This novel also centers on the evergreen topic of love/relationships, using modern, high-tech New York (NY) City as its backdrop.
The story follows Vesper, a young, single, beautiful, smart, and highly successful consultant at a leading New York consulting firm. She loves living single but remains interested in relationships. Only a handful of men seriously attract her, and she wonders why. Possibly fearing the emotional trauma that follows a serious relationship failure, she insists on keeping suitors at arm's length and avoids commitment.
However, when she meets Caspian, an equally accomplished and charming entrepreneur who shares many of her interests, he truly sweeps her off her feet, and she begins dating him with genuine enthusiasm.
To know each other closely, the two spend some time together, but guardedly. Of the two, Vesper is sincere, but Caspian is a sleazy cheat—a proverbial wolf in sheep’s clothing! His witty banter, deep knowledge of philosophy, gentle manners, and charm conceal his true nature.
At one point in their budding relationship, when she discovers she is in love, she visits Caspian to share the news. However, when she arrives, she's shocked to find that he’s moved on to another woman! Because Vesper arrives unexpectedly, she sees the other woman in person. Had she arranged the visit in advance, Caspian would likely have manipulated matters so that nothing appeared amiss.
The book is moderately successful in capturing the instability and uncertainty of modern dating/hookup culture. The author’s writing style is witty, lively, and entertaining. A high point deserving praise is his donning a feminine persona and convincingly fleshing out the roles of Vesper and her girlfriends in this story!
What’s highly appealing and noteworthy about this book is the modern NY woman it portrays: bold, smart, capable, independent, and resilient. She appears capable of navigating the unforgiving dating market safely, armed with wisdom and confidence. She stands equal to and sometimes surpasses weaker men. After the devastating breakdown with Caspian, Vesper copes bravely with her traumatic condition and bounces back in some time with no need for help outside her circle of friends. She learns from the experience and becomes wiser about seeing through ultra-polished cheating men.
One feels proud seeing the women who have advanced to this stature and maturity today.
Doubtless, Caspian is a blot on the escutcheon of the male half of the dating market, tarnishing images of some eligible, smart, talented, trustworthy, soldier-saint-like noble men whom women truly cherish as life partners. Unlike Caspian, these gems would never let down the women they love, no matter the cost.
This novel also centers on the evergreen topic of love/relationships, using modern, high-tech New York (NY) City as its backdrop.
The story follows Vesper, a young, single, beautiful, smart, and highly successful consultant at a leading New York consulting firm. She loves living single but remains interested in relationships. Only a handful of men seriously attract her, and she wonders why. Possibly fearing the emotional trauma that follows a serious relationship failure, she insists on keeping suitors at arm's length and avoids commitment.
However, when she meets Caspian, an equally accomplished and charming entrepreneur who shares many of her interests, he truly sweeps her off her feet, and she begins dating him with genuine enthusiasm.
To know each other closely, the two spend some time together, but guardedly. Of the two, Vesper is sincere, but Caspian is a sleazy cheat—a proverbial wolf in sheep’s clothing! His witty banter, deep knowledge of philosophy, gentle manners, and charm conceal his true nature.
At one point in their budding relationship, when she discovers she is in love, she visits Caspian to share the news. However, when she arrives, she's shocked to find that he’s moved on to another woman! Because Vesper arrives unexpectedly, she sees the other woman in person. Had she arranged the visit in advance, Caspian would likely have manipulated matters so that nothing appeared amiss.
The book is moderately successful in capturing the instability and uncertainty of modern dating/hookup culture. The author’s writing style is witty, lively, and entertaining. A high point deserving praise is his donning a feminine persona and convincingly fleshing out the roles of Vesper and her girlfriends in this story!
What’s highly appealing and noteworthy about this book is the modern NY woman it portrays: bold, smart, capable, independent, and resilient. She appears capable of navigating the unforgiving dating market safely, armed with wisdom and confidence. She stands equal to and sometimes surpasses weaker men. After the devastating breakdown with Caspian, Vesper copes bravely with her traumatic condition and bounces back in some time with no need for help outside her circle of friends. She learns from the experience and becomes wiser about seeing through ultra-polished cheating men.
One feels proud seeing the women who have advanced to this stature and maturity today.
Doubtless, Caspian is a blot on the escutcheon of the male half of the dating market, tarnishing images of some eligible, smart, talented, trustworthy, soldier-saint-like noble men whom women truly cherish as life partners. Unlike Caspian, these gems would never let down the women they love, no matter the cost.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Vesper doesn’t just present itself as an anti-romance—it actively challenges the idea of romance as narrative destiny. What makes this debut stand out is not whether love “wins,” but how thoughtfully it interrogates the expectations—social, cultural, and internal—that shape how we define it.
The strength of the novel lies in its voice. Controlled, incisive, and deeply self-aware, Vesper isn’t simply experiencing her life—she’s constantly interpreting it. Every interaction is filtered through a lens of analysis, creating a compelling tension between her commitment to independence and the undeniable space relationships still occupy in her world. Rather than resolving that contradiction, the novel leans into it, giving the story a sense of authenticity and weight.
What’s particularly striking is the way the narrative prioritizes observation over immersion. This is not a story that asks you to passively feel—it asks you to notice. Patterns, performances, contradictions—they all come into focus, making the reading experience feel thoughtful and engaging in a different, more intellectual way. The slight distance this creates feels intentional, echoing how Vesper herself navigates her environment.
And that environment is rendered with precision. The New York setting feels polished, ambitious, and socially charged—a space where identity and connection are constantly negotiated. It’s not just a backdrop, but an active force shaping the characters and their choices, captured with a subtle confidence that never over-explains.
Caspian’s role adds another layer, not as a conventional romantic endpoint, but as a disruption. Their connection challenges rather than resolves, reinforcing the novel’s core exploration of independence, desire, and self-definition.
What ultimately elevates Vesper is its restraint. It resists easy conclusions, allowing multiple truths to exist side by side without forcing resolution. That choice gives the novel a sense of maturity and confidence that feels especially impressive in a debut.
Smart, stylish, and thematically assured, Vesper is a novel that doesn’t just engage with modern relationships—it questions the very framework we use to understand them.
The strength of the novel lies in its voice. Controlled, incisive, and deeply self-aware, Vesper isn’t simply experiencing her life—she’s constantly interpreting it. Every interaction is filtered through a lens of analysis, creating a compelling tension between her commitment to independence and the undeniable space relationships still occupy in her world. Rather than resolving that contradiction, the novel leans into it, giving the story a sense of authenticity and weight.
What’s particularly striking is the way the narrative prioritizes observation over immersion. This is not a story that asks you to passively feel—it asks you to notice. Patterns, performances, contradictions—they all come into focus, making the reading experience feel thoughtful and engaging in a different, more intellectual way. The slight distance this creates feels intentional, echoing how Vesper herself navigates her environment.
And that environment is rendered with precision. The New York setting feels polished, ambitious, and socially charged—a space where identity and connection are constantly negotiated. It’s not just a backdrop, but an active force shaping the characters and their choices, captured with a subtle confidence that never over-explains.
Caspian’s role adds another layer, not as a conventional romantic endpoint, but as a disruption. Their connection challenges rather than resolves, reinforcing the novel’s core exploration of independence, desire, and self-definition.
What ultimately elevates Vesper is its restraint. It resists easy conclusions, allowing multiple truths to exist side by side without forcing resolution. That choice gives the novel a sense of maturity and confidence that feels especially impressive in a debut.
Smart, stylish, and thematically assured, Vesper is a novel that doesn’t just engage with modern relationships—it questions the very framework we use to understand them.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Vesper by Evan Marks
2.5 stars
Vesper by Evan Marks follows Vesper Elsegood, a twenty-something consultant at a high-end firm in New York City, as she tries to make sense of independence, friendship, ambition, dating, and love.
Vesper says she does not want to be with a man, and yet men still take up so much space in her mind, her energy, and her conversations with the people she loves. She has a close group of girlfriends who get together to talk through their dating lives, which gives the book a very Sex and the City-esque feel. There is a lot of talk about men, work, status, image, and what it means to want freedom while still craving connection.
This is not a traditional romance. The book is much more interested in the strategy behind dating, especially when money, status, and appearance are involved. Love here does not feel soft or sweeping. It feels transactional, guarded, and at times almost like another part of the characters’ professional lives.
The alternating man/woman perspectives give the novel some of its strongest moments. Seeing both sides helps highlight the different ways the characters think about dating, power, freedom, and self-presentation. There is also an interesting layer to the fact that Vesper, a contemporary female main character, is written by a male author. At times, that choice felt a little noticeable to me, but it also made the book feel even more focused on gender, performance, and the ways men and women can move through relationships with completely different expectations.
Marks has a good eye for the way status can creep into every conversation, every relationship, and every decision. That detached, almost clinical view of privilege and social climbing will not be for everyone, but readers who like a colder, more cynical take on modern relationships may really connect with it.
Overall, this was an interesting read with sharp social observations, but it did not totally come together for me. I think it will work best for readers who like Sex and the City-type entertainment with a colder, more psychologically observant edge.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kinderspiel Press for the Advanced Reader’s Edition of Vesper and the opportunity to provide an honest review.
2.5 stars
Vesper by Evan Marks follows Vesper Elsegood, a twenty-something consultant at a high-end firm in New York City, as she tries to make sense of independence, friendship, ambition, dating, and love.
Vesper says she does not want to be with a man, and yet men still take up so much space in her mind, her energy, and her conversations with the people she loves. She has a close group of girlfriends who get together to talk through their dating lives, which gives the book a very Sex and the City-esque feel. There is a lot of talk about men, work, status, image, and what it means to want freedom while still craving connection.
This is not a traditional romance. The book is much more interested in the strategy behind dating, especially when money, status, and appearance are involved. Love here does not feel soft or sweeping. It feels transactional, guarded, and at times almost like another part of the characters’ professional lives.
The alternating man/woman perspectives give the novel some of its strongest moments. Seeing both sides helps highlight the different ways the characters think about dating, power, freedom, and self-presentation. There is also an interesting layer to the fact that Vesper, a contemporary female main character, is written by a male author. At times, that choice felt a little noticeable to me, but it also made the book feel even more focused on gender, performance, and the ways men and women can move through relationships with completely different expectations.
Marks has a good eye for the way status can creep into every conversation, every relationship, and every decision. That detached, almost clinical view of privilege and social climbing will not be for everyone, but readers who like a colder, more cynical take on modern relationships may really connect with it.
Overall, this was an interesting read with sharp social observations, but it did not totally come together for me. I think it will work best for readers who like Sex and the City-type entertainment with a colder, more psychologically observant edge.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kinderspiel Press for the Advanced Reader’s Edition of Vesper and the opportunity to provide an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
There’s a real pulse to Vesper. There should be. It’s set in New York but escapist New York: jets, St. Tropez trips, glossy high rises, elitist, untouchable sheen. I know this didn’t land for all readers, but this is the part I loveddddd the most.
On a surface level, It was indulgent spending time in the shoes of a successful consultant living in an unattainable, stylish vignette of Manhattan. An easy read in this sense and a fun escape that’s what held me more than anything. And fans of Sex And The City will love this side of it.
On a deeper level though, I loved the way the author grappled with the restless energy of desire. Of the internal arguments we have with ourselves- not just romantic, but ambition, control, identity.
There’s a tension running through it that feels very familiar: wanting to feel everything, but also wanting to stay intact. The writing leans into that without over explaining it. It trusts the reader to feel the friction.
At its best, the book feels sharp, glossy, alive.
The observations are uncannily accurate….You get the sense that the author is a dedicated observer of life. There’s conviction behind them. And a deep understanding of humanity. At times this lands humourously with witty descriptions of people that you will recognize in your own life, and in other places moving and quietly deep. Always, unbelievably apt.
Yes, I agree with some of the reviewers: At times, I felt Vesper herself was a little too flat but I absolutelyyyy loved her relationship with Caspian. This is the part that’s surprisingly addictive for an anti-romance! their chemistry is tangible, their banter and humor unmatched.
Spoiler: i also loved the full-circle moment it ended with, and I’m hoping this means a follow-up??
Overall I would say that this is a must read for anyone who enjoys non-traditional love stories, the finer things in life, and addictive glossy reads.
Thanks to Kindlespiel for the advanced copy.
On a surface level, It was indulgent spending time in the shoes of a successful consultant living in an unattainable, stylish vignette of Manhattan. An easy read in this sense and a fun escape that’s what held me more than anything. And fans of Sex And The City will love this side of it.
On a deeper level though, I loved the way the author grappled with the restless energy of desire. Of the internal arguments we have with ourselves- not just romantic, but ambition, control, identity.
There’s a tension running through it that feels very familiar: wanting to feel everything, but also wanting to stay intact. The writing leans into that without over explaining it. It trusts the reader to feel the friction.
At its best, the book feels sharp, glossy, alive.
The observations are uncannily accurate….You get the sense that the author is a dedicated observer of life. There’s conviction behind them. And a deep understanding of humanity. At times this lands humourously with witty descriptions of people that you will recognize in your own life, and in other places moving and quietly deep. Always, unbelievably apt.
Yes, I agree with some of the reviewers: At times, I felt Vesper herself was a little too flat but I absolutelyyyy loved her relationship with Caspian. This is the part that’s surprisingly addictive for an anti-romance! their chemistry is tangible, their banter and humor unmatched.
Spoiler: i also loved the full-circle moment it ended with, and I’m hoping this means a follow-up??
Overall I would say that this is a must read for anyone who enjoys non-traditional love stories, the finer things in life, and addictive glossy reads.
Thanks to Kindlespiel for the advanced copy.
May 30, 2026
This is my honest review of Vesper, that I went into after reading some reviews and purposefully leaving prejudice behind.
Wow this book has got some stick and honestly, I don't see it.
It follows a bunch of fairly privaleged women, talking about their love life's, from singlehood, going out & having loads of fun to someone in a long term relationship.
It covers important life topics from being stuck in a job you don't enjoy whilst everyone else looks like they are the epitome of success, to discussing human traits and behaviors we inhabit that take us away from being present and grateful.
I ate this book up in 2 days. It was easy to read, flowed at a decent pace and explored Vesper's life experiences well. I think the author did very well writing about the ins and outs of women's thoughts.
What I will add is, part of me is Vesper. I have been single for 10 years, I don't give people a chance and I have an armor that protects me from betrayal and hurt. And it's been fun. But wow did I feel seen. I therefore felt that her character didnt fall flat for me, at all.
"Eventually I come to grips with the most soul-wrenching realization of all. That I’m now just like the rest of the world, vulnerable to betrayal and mortal of heartbreak. It was much easier knowing that love exists and choosing to believe that it doesn’t, than to realize it doesn’t exist and go on wondering if I can ever delude myself again that it does." Evan Marks. Vesper
Yes this book had some flaws but it's a debut novel. This isn't just a 'Sex and the City' type book, it shows the all too real side of not communicating but coming to our own conclusions and calling them facts.
The dismissive culture we now inherit and the pressures put upon us, quite often by ourselves.
This was a great reflective read.
Wow this book has got some stick and honestly, I don't see it.
It follows a bunch of fairly privaleged women, talking about their love life's, from singlehood, going out & having loads of fun to someone in a long term relationship.
It covers important life topics from being stuck in a job you don't enjoy whilst everyone else looks like they are the epitome of success, to discussing human traits and behaviors we inhabit that take us away from being present and grateful.
I ate this book up in 2 days. It was easy to read, flowed at a decent pace and explored Vesper's life experiences well. I think the author did very well writing about the ins and outs of women's thoughts.
What I will add is, part of me is Vesper. I have been single for 10 years, I don't give people a chance and I have an armor that protects me from betrayal and hurt. And it's been fun. But wow did I feel seen. I therefore felt that her character didnt fall flat for me, at all.
"Eventually I come to grips with the most soul-wrenching realization of all. That I’m now just like the rest of the world, vulnerable to betrayal and mortal of heartbreak. It was much easier knowing that love exists and choosing to believe that it doesn’t, than to realize it doesn’t exist and go on wondering if I can ever delude myself again that it does." Evan Marks. Vesper
Yes this book had some flaws but it's a debut novel. This isn't just a 'Sex and the City' type book, it shows the all too real side of not communicating but coming to our own conclusions and calling them facts.
The dismissive culture we now inherit and the pressures put upon us, quite often by ourselves.
This was a great reflective read.
June 16, 2026
An Intelligent and Unconventional Take on Modern Love
VESPER is a thoughtful and unconventional novel that explores modern relationships, independence, and the stories people tell themselves about love. Rather than following the familiar path of a contemporary romance, Evan Marks focuses on self-discovery and the tension between personal freedom and emotional connection. Vesper is a compelling protagonist. She's confident, ambitious, and fiercely protective of the life she has built for herself. Through her experiences in New York City's fast-moving social and professional circles, the novel examines how easily certainty can be challenged when unexpected feelings enter the picture.
What stood out most to me was the book's willingness to ask difficult questions without offering simple answers. The relationship between Vesper and Caspian provides plenty of chemistry and emotional complexity, but the story never loses sight of Vesper's internal journey. Marks also captures the atmosphere of contemporary New York remarkably well, creating a backdrop that feels vibrant, restless, and constantly evolving. Philosophical ideas are woven throughout the narrative, adding another layer to what might otherwise have been a straightforward story about dating and relationships.
I appreciated that the novel takes risks and refuses to conform to genre expectations. One downside is that some readers may find it difficult to connect emotionally with the characters, as the introspective approach can create a sense of distance. VESPER will likely resonate most with readers who enjoy character-driven fiction, thoughtful observations about modern life, and stories that continue to spark reflection long after the final page.
VESPER is a thoughtful and unconventional novel that explores modern relationships, independence, and the stories people tell themselves about love. Rather than following the familiar path of a contemporary romance, Evan Marks focuses on self-discovery and the tension between personal freedom and emotional connection. Vesper is a compelling protagonist. She's confident, ambitious, and fiercely protective of the life she has built for herself. Through her experiences in New York City's fast-moving social and professional circles, the novel examines how easily certainty can be challenged when unexpected feelings enter the picture.
What stood out most to me was the book's willingness to ask difficult questions without offering simple answers. The relationship between Vesper and Caspian provides plenty of chemistry and emotional complexity, but the story never loses sight of Vesper's internal journey. Marks also captures the atmosphere of contemporary New York remarkably well, creating a backdrop that feels vibrant, restless, and constantly evolving. Philosophical ideas are woven throughout the narrative, adding another layer to what might otherwise have been a straightforward story about dating and relationships.
I appreciated that the novel takes risks and refuses to conform to genre expectations. One downside is that some readers may find it difficult to connect emotionally with the characters, as the introspective approach can create a sense of distance. VESPER will likely resonate most with readers who enjoy character-driven fiction, thoughtful observations about modern life, and stories that continue to spark reflection long after the final page.
June 21, 2026
The farther we run from something, the harder it hits when it finally arrives. The same happens with Vesper when she finally commits to someone. Vesper, who lives in New York City, works as a consultant, makes good money, and loves her freedom. At the start of the story, Vesper treats dating like a game. She goes on dates, keeps her choices open, and avoids getting too close to anyone. She believes that serious relationships can take away her freedom.
The story changes when she meets Caspian. He is just as detached as she is. They connect deeply, and Vesper starts to fall in love. It scares her because she can no longer control her emotions. The author does a good job showing this change little by little.
Later in the story, Caspian betrays her. Vesper is heartbroken. This part of the book is powerful. The author shows that love is risky and hurts, but the pain helps Vesper grow. She had been avoiding this since the beginning and rejecting others who got serious with her. Finally, that happens to her. How she handles the pain while dealing with her stressful job is a treat to read. She even gets some good advice on this from his ex-flame.
This is not a traditional romance story. It is about modern dating culture. People who like singlehood will relate to this story, while others may think it feels cold. The dialogues are fast and funny. There is one instance where the same date is described from both the boy's and the girl's points of view, and it's hilarious. Also, the author has done a terrific job of portraying everything from loud, crazy dance clubs to the quiet, fancy White House. Ultimately, it is just a quick, sharp read about modern dating culture.
The story changes when she meets Caspian. He is just as detached as she is. They connect deeply, and Vesper starts to fall in love. It scares her because she can no longer control her emotions. The author does a good job showing this change little by little.
Later in the story, Caspian betrays her. Vesper is heartbroken. This part of the book is powerful. The author shows that love is risky and hurts, but the pain helps Vesper grow. She had been avoiding this since the beginning and rejecting others who got serious with her. Finally, that happens to her. How she handles the pain while dealing with her stressful job is a treat to read. She even gets some good advice on this from his ex-flame.
This is not a traditional romance story. It is about modern dating culture. People who like singlehood will relate to this story, while others may think it feels cold. The dialogues are fast and funny. There is one instance where the same date is described from both the boy's and the girl's points of view, and it's hilarious. Also, the author has done a terrific job of portraying everything from loud, crazy dance clubs to the quiet, fancy White House. Ultimately, it is just a quick, sharp read about modern dating culture.
June 11, 2026
VESPER is the kind of book that makes you stop and ask: who is this for? Evan Marks' debut follows Vesper Elsegood, a consultant in love with being single, navigating New York's dating world with the self-assurance of someone who has already written the ending to her own story. The premise had me immediately. A literary anti-romance centered on a woman choosing herself over the narrative she's supposed to want? I was in.
The thing is, it delivers on that promise in some places and quietly undermines it in others. The New York Marks builds is vivid and affectionate, and the romance, when it finally arrives, is genuinely good. The chemistry between Vesper and Caspian caught me off guard with how well it worked. But for a protagonist so committed to independence, Vesper's inner world is almost entirely occupied by men. Her conversations, her ruminations, her emotional real estate. It started to feel like a contradiction the book never quite reckoned with, and the world she moves through, where everyone is Ivy-educated, financially comfortable, and philosophically inclined at dinner parties, left me feeling at a slight distance for much of it.
There was clearly a sincerity underneath it all. Marks clearly did the work of trying to understand his subject, and you can feel that in the acknowledgments as much as the pages. The ending, which I imagine will split readers, is more honest than tidy, and I mean that as a compliment. VESPER is a flawed but worthwhile read, especially if you go in willing to interrogate it rather than just enjoy it.
The thing is, it delivers on that promise in some places and quietly undermines it in others. The New York Marks builds is vivid and affectionate, and the romance, when it finally arrives, is genuinely good. The chemistry between Vesper and Caspian caught me off guard with how well it worked. But for a protagonist so committed to independence, Vesper's inner world is almost entirely occupied by men. Her conversations, her ruminations, her emotional real estate. It started to feel like a contradiction the book never quite reckoned with, and the world she moves through, where everyone is Ivy-educated, financially comfortable, and philosophically inclined at dinner parties, left me feeling at a slight distance for much of it.
There was clearly a sincerity underneath it all. Marks clearly did the work of trying to understand his subject, and you can feel that in the acknowledgments as much as the pages. The ending, which I imagine will split readers, is more honest than tidy, and I mean that as a compliment. VESPER is a flawed but worthwhile read, especially if you go in willing to interrogate it rather than just enjoy it.
June 20, 2026
Vesper is convinced she’s perfectly content being single. Watching her friends settle into relationships only reinforces her belief that romantic love is often more complicated than it’s worth. But when she meets Caspian, an ambitious entrepreneur whose presence challenges some of her long-held beliefs, she finds herself questioning not only her views on relationships but also the story she’s been telling herself about who she is and what she wants.
It’s important to note that this is not a romance, despite the romantic elements woven throughout the story. At its core, Vesper is a reflective character study about self-worth, identity, and the pressure women often face to fit into prescribed roles. Marks spends a significant amount of time examining Vesper’s internal world, making the novel feel thoughtful and introspective.
That said, I did struggle with portions of the book. The writing itself is undeniably strong, and there were moments where Marks’ observations felt insightful and deeply human. However, some sections moved more slowly than I would have liked, occasionally feeling a bit dry and making it difficult for me to stay fully engaged. Readers who enjoy plot-driven stories may find themselves wanting a stronger sense of momentum.
Even so, I appreciated what the novel was trying to accomplish. Rather than offering easy answers, Vesper encourages readers to consider what fulfillment looks like when it isn’t defined by romantic success. The result is a thoughtful and often honest exploration of independence, vulnerability, and personal growth
It’s important to note that this is not a romance, despite the romantic elements woven throughout the story. At its core, Vesper is a reflective character study about self-worth, identity, and the pressure women often face to fit into prescribed roles. Marks spends a significant amount of time examining Vesper’s internal world, making the novel feel thoughtful and introspective.
That said, I did struggle with portions of the book. The writing itself is undeniably strong, and there were moments where Marks’ observations felt insightful and deeply human. However, some sections moved more slowly than I would have liked, occasionally feeling a bit dry and making it difficult for me to stay fully engaged. Readers who enjoy plot-driven stories may find themselves wanting a stronger sense of momentum.
Even so, I appreciated what the novel was trying to accomplish. Rather than offering easy answers, Vesper encourages readers to consider what fulfillment looks like when it isn’t defined by romantic success. The result is a thoughtful and often honest exploration of independence, vulnerability, and personal growth
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book was advertised as a modern telling of "Sex and the City" and I suppose that could be true if you take away everything good about "Sex and the City." Not a single character is likeable in this book, except maybe the completely undeveloped character of Vesper's sister. Vesper reads like a woman written by a man, perhaps unsurprisingly, because she is a woman written by a man. There is no "emotional portrait" or "cultural inquiry" in this book that I could find. Every character was either completely undeveloped or a sketch in stereotype. Caspian is the quintessential rich guy with no personality and seemingly little redeeming qualities other than he's incredibly rich. His "ideas institute" is one of the most idiotic things I've ever read. All we really learn about Vesper is that she hates her job and that she falls in love very easily notwithstanding her fierce desire to avoid relationships. She is extremely unlikeable and there is nothing about New York City in this book that makes any difference - the book could be set anywhere and still fall flat. Also, the book is repeatedly advertised as "witty," but the only thing "witty" about it is its continued use of the word "witty" to describe Vesper and Caspian's banal "repartee." Finally, what's with the few random chapters from the male perspective? I understand it's probably so the author can show Caspian's point of view at the end, but it's so random and dumb.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this fabulous debut novel by Evan Marks. Much thanks to Kinderspiel Press and Netgalley for the ARC.
It's not often I find a book that I can truly relate to the female characters so well, and that's saying something when Vesper was written by a man. I think he has a wonderful grasp on how modern young women see the world and in particular how many of them are choosing to navigate the social and dating scenes. It was so refreshing to read about girl in her late-twenties who wasn't desperately looking for Mr Right to "complete her".
The descriptions of the setting - New York (and briefly St Tropez and San Francisco) were truly evocative and the author had a way of making me feel like I was there. The conversations were so on point and the banter was never forced but extremely realistic, as was the flirting. Watching our protagonist fall in love was never saccharine sweet or cheesy, it was very genuinely handled,
This book was beautifully written and I loved the music references throughout and found myself searching for each song on Spotify and found a couple that I really loved. I suggest a Spotify playlist to accompany this book. I really love music, maps, recipes or anything that extends the book beyond the pages. I really look forward to reading Evan Marks next book and the one after that and the one after that.
It's not often I find a book that I can truly relate to the female characters so well, and that's saying something when Vesper was written by a man. I think he has a wonderful grasp on how modern young women see the world and in particular how many of them are choosing to navigate the social and dating scenes. It was so refreshing to read about girl in her late-twenties who wasn't desperately looking for Mr Right to "complete her".
The descriptions of the setting - New York (and briefly St Tropez and San Francisco) were truly evocative and the author had a way of making me feel like I was there. The conversations were so on point and the banter was never forced but extremely realistic, as was the flirting. Watching our protagonist fall in love was never saccharine sweet or cheesy, it was very genuinely handled,
This book was beautifully written and I loved the music references throughout and found myself searching for each song on Spotify and found a couple that I really loved. I suggest a Spotify playlist to accompany this book. I really love music, maps, recipes or anything that extends the book beyond the pages. I really look forward to reading Evan Marks next book and the one after that and the one after that.
May 26, 2026
The Short of It:
Sophisticated singles in the city.
The Rest of It:
“Vesper Elsegood is in love. With being single.” ~ from the publisher
Vesper is being touted as an “anti-romance” novel, which intrigued me because I am not a huge fan of romance. I often find the genre sappy or unrealistic, but Vesper is a different beast. Vesper is not looking for love. She enjoys the dating scene, chooses her dates carefully, and frankly appreciates the variety.
Her friends do not understand this. Why not settle down and start a family? It is a question young women everywhere hear all the time, yet it is not what Vesper wants. She would rather be successful, happy, and unattached.
Then in walks Caspian. Vesper was not expecting to be smitten by a gorgeous, successful man, but that is exactly what happens, and she is not sure what to make of it. Can you be in a relationship and still maintain your independence? Is that even possible?
As Vesper navigates this new possibility, insecurities about work and life begin to take their toll. I found the story to be a refreshing take on what it means to be single. Less yearning, more internal reflection. It could just be me, but I feel that Marks left the story open for a sequel. Perhaps a series is in the works.
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June 9, 2026
I'm extremely grateful to Kinderspiel Press and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review "Vesper" ahead of its publication.
"Vesper" was billed as a "literary anti-romance" debut novel "that skewers modern dating, work and power" by an Australian music producer-turned-Harvard Business School graduate investment banker, excoriating the dating world permeating such ecosystems. In interviews, Marks lauded Milan Kundera and Christopher Marlowe; one concluded with him wishing he'd written Ovid's "Metamorphosis," as a purportedly obvious reference point for "Vesper." (It's invoked in-novel by Caspian, as well.)
I was hoping, ideally, for a "Sweetbitter" meets "Girls" situation -- but, unfortunately, "Vesper" never rises to that level or its billing. It's filled with an inchoate cast of identical 2-D characters, devoid of propulsive motivations or even actual hedonism. Swanky restaurants, music and brands are peppered in alongside arcane philosophical debates. They raise capital, they fine dine, they drink, they globetrot, their conversations unspool in privileged rooms you or I couldn't possibly conceive of being in. Ultimately, "Vesper" unravels as less a send-up of a certain lifestyle than fetishization. I'm sure this is a teeming world that exists just beyond a thin veil right alongside ours ...it's just not a world I want to spend any more time in than I have to.
"Vesper" was billed as a "literary anti-romance" debut novel "that skewers modern dating, work and power" by an Australian music producer-turned-Harvard Business School graduate investment banker, excoriating the dating world permeating such ecosystems. In interviews, Marks lauded Milan Kundera and Christopher Marlowe; one concluded with him wishing he'd written Ovid's "Metamorphosis," as a purportedly obvious reference point for "Vesper." (It's invoked in-novel by Caspian, as well.)
I was hoping, ideally, for a "Sweetbitter" meets "Girls" situation -- but, unfortunately, "Vesper" never rises to that level or its billing. It's filled with an inchoate cast of identical 2-D characters, devoid of propulsive motivations or even actual hedonism. Swanky restaurants, music and brands are peppered in alongside arcane philosophical debates. They raise capital, they fine dine, they drink, they globetrot, their conversations unspool in privileged rooms you or I couldn't possibly conceive of being in. Ultimately, "Vesper" unravels as less a send-up of a certain lifestyle than fetishization. I'm sure this is a teeming world that exists just beyond a thin veil right alongside ours ...it's just not a world I want to spend any more time in than I have to.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Actual Rating 1.5
Brave of a male author to write a book like this. And honestly, the author did an okay job portraying a female, avoiding many of the pitfalls male authors fall into. However, the characters were not written well at all. They felt like their existence began at the start of this book, if that makes sense. Not like real people with real lives and we're just getting a glimpse into those lives. They didn't exist outside of the plot, they were flat, and even by the end of the book, I was left wondering, why should I care about the MC and who even is she as a person, her history, etc.?
It was also a bit ironic for a book marketed as an anti-romance and about "a woman who doesn't need no man" to spend so much time with the characters talking and thinking about men. That, along with the characters being so lacking, made this a difficult book to get through.
Unfortunately, this work just ended up being relatively boring without anything to recommend it (except that it is generally readable). My thanks to NetGalley and Kinderspiel Press for allowing me to read this work. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Brave of a male author to write a book like this. And honestly, the author did an okay job portraying a female, avoiding many of the pitfalls male authors fall into. However, the characters were not written well at all. They felt like their existence began at the start of this book, if that makes sense. Not like real people with real lives and we're just getting a glimpse into those lives. They didn't exist outside of the plot, they were flat, and even by the end of the book, I was left wondering, why should I care about the MC and who even is she as a person, her history, etc.?
It was also a bit ironic for a book marketed as an anti-romance and about "a woman who doesn't need no man" to spend so much time with the characters talking and thinking about men. That, along with the characters being so lacking, made this a difficult book to get through.
Unfortunately, this work just ended up being relatively boring without anything to recommend it (except that it is generally readable). My thanks to NetGalley and Kinderspiel Press for allowing me to read this work. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
May 28, 2026
Thank you, Kinderspiel Press and NetGalley, for the eARC! I received a marketing email from NetGalley promoting this book, and I was initially interested in the "anti-romance" aspect and Sex and the City comparison. This was interesting enough to keep me reading until the end, but ultimately, I found this book underwhelming. I liked that there were some multi-POV chapters; however, the POV chapters from Vesper's dating prospects were not that different from Vesper's. I didn't feel like there was much of a change in voice between them. Unfortunately, the plot fell flat for me. I love that in the end, Vesper chose to be independent from a relationship and chose her own happiness over her job. But the path she went through to get there did not feel satisfying. It felt like she chose to be single as protection from getting hurt rather than for the love of being independent and single. The relationships felt kind of shallow and surface-level. I felt the story lacked emotion, vulnerability, and meaningful character growth. This story is more of a social commentary on dating as an elitist New York transplant. The most relatable part of the book is Vesper’s attitude towards her job.
June 14, 2026
When I started reading this, I was expecting another play on a contemporary romance, but it quickly became clear that this book is more about asking questions than giving easy answers. At its heart, it is a story about independence, identity, and the complicated ways people think about love.
Vesper herself is not always an easy character to like, but I appreciated that she felt different from many female leads. She is confident, opinionated, and perfectly content being single. This makes her reactions when Caspian enters her life much more interesting. Their relationship has genuine chemistry, but the novel never loses sight of the fact that this is really Vesper's story. I also enjoyed the New York setting. The social scene, dating culture, and career pressures all felt modern without becoming overwhelming. There are philosophical ideas woven throughout the story, but they never completely take over the narrative.
This is not a traditional romance, and I think readers expecting a straightforward happily-ever-after may be surprised. I appreciated that the author was willing to take risks instead of following a familiar story and I think other readers will too.
Vesper herself is not always an easy character to like, but I appreciated that she felt different from many female leads. She is confident, opinionated, and perfectly content being single. This makes her reactions when Caspian enters her life much more interesting. Their relationship has genuine chemistry, but the novel never loses sight of the fact that this is really Vesper's story. I also enjoyed the New York setting. The social scene, dating culture, and career pressures all felt modern without becoming overwhelming. There are philosophical ideas woven throughout the story, but they never completely take over the narrative.
This is not a traditional romance, and I think readers expecting a straightforward happily-ever-after may be surprised. I appreciated that the author was willing to take risks instead of following a familiar story and I think other readers will too.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
When I saw that this book was described with Sex and the City vibes, I had to request it and was so excited to get it.
Vesper is a young woman living in New York, working as a consultant. She has a close group of friends that she spends time with going for drinks, brunches, etc. The group has several different personalities and views on love and relationships. Vesper is very clear about how she is not looking for love but just having fun while juggling several different men.
She seems locked into that mentality until she meets Caspian. Spending time with him has her thinking that maybe relationships are not so bad.
If you are a fan of Romcom type stories, this is not one of those. It doesn't change that it is an interesting storyline. There is chemistry. There is banter. But it isn't all fluffy. It is dealing with finding your way, learning what motivates you and figuring out what you want in the future.
Thank you to NetGalley for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Vesper is a young woman living in New York, working as a consultant. She has a close group of friends that she spends time with going for drinks, brunches, etc. The group has several different personalities and views on love and relationships. Vesper is very clear about how she is not looking for love but just having fun while juggling several different men.
She seems locked into that mentality until she meets Caspian. Spending time with him has her thinking that maybe relationships are not so bad.
If you are a fan of Romcom type stories, this is not one of those. It doesn't change that it is an interesting storyline. There is chemistry. There is banter. But it isn't all fluffy. It is dealing with finding your way, learning what motivates you and figuring out what you want in the future.
Thank you to NetGalley for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
3,5 stars.
I wasn’t really sure what to expect going into Vesper, but I ended up enjoying it more than I thought I would.
What I liked the most was the voice. There’s something very sharp and self-aware about the protagonist, and the way she looks at dating and relationships feels pretty realistic, if a bit cynical at times. It’s not really a “romance” in the classic sense, it’s more introspective, more about how she sees herself and other people, which I liked.
The writing is easy to get into and has this slightly reflective tone that makes it feel a bit deeper than it first seems. It’s not super plot-driven, but I didn’t really mind that because the character voice carries it.
That said, I didn’t fully connect with everything. Some of the side characters felt a bit in the background, and emotionally it didn’t always hit as much as I expected.
Overall, I think it’s a really good read. Not perfect, but definitely interesting and worth picking up, especially if you like more character-focused, slightly introspective stories.
I wasn’t really sure what to expect going into Vesper, but I ended up enjoying it more than I thought I would.
What I liked the most was the voice. There’s something very sharp and self-aware about the protagonist, and the way she looks at dating and relationships feels pretty realistic, if a bit cynical at times. It’s not really a “romance” in the classic sense, it’s more introspective, more about how she sees herself and other people, which I liked.
The writing is easy to get into and has this slightly reflective tone that makes it feel a bit deeper than it first seems. It’s not super plot-driven, but I didn’t really mind that because the character voice carries it.
That said, I didn’t fully connect with everything. Some of the side characters felt a bit in the background, and emotionally it didn’t always hit as much as I expected.
Overall, I think it’s a really good read. Not perfect, but definitely interesting and worth picking up, especially if you like more character-focused, slightly introspective stories.
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