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Ghost Writing #3
By the Book
Not yet published
Expected 3 Jun 26From the bestselling author of Ghost Writing—winner of the 2025 North American Book Awards Gold Medal in Romance and a 2025 Shelf Media Top Notable Indie Book—comes By the Book, the story of Scarlett Sinclair, Callie’s devoted best friend. Set alongside the events of Ghost Writing, this novel steps behind the scenes to reveal Scarlett’s own sweeping, complicated love story—proving that while Callie fought for her happily ever after, Scarlett risked everything for hers.
Scarlett Sinclair is a romance novelist who knows exactly how love is supposed to work—on the page, at least. Off the page, she’s stuck. Her latest manuscript isn’t landing, her editor wants more of the same, and she’s quietly suffocating inside a life that no longer fits.
She meets Jonathan Levine at a literary reading for a book that isn’t hers, and the connection is instant. Jonathan is steady, successful, and principled—and, catastrophically, a corporate attorney for Scarlett’s publishing house. He believes in rules and careful boundaries, even as he falls for a woman who runs on instinct and emotion.
As their relationship intensifies, Scarlett wrestles with whether to deliver the book she’s contracted to write or risk walking away. Further complicating matters, her mother reveals a long-buried family secret—one that upends everything Scarlett thought she understood about her parents, her beloved Aunt Tess, and, especially, about herself.
Now, Scarlett must discover who she truly is, mend her family ties, and fight for a future with Jonathan. Following her heart could mean breaching her contract and risking both her career and the man she loves. Staying the course may cost her something even greater: the chance to live—and love—authentically.
Scarlett Sinclair is a romance novelist who knows exactly how love is supposed to work—on the page, at least. Off the page, she’s stuck. Her latest manuscript isn’t landing, her editor wants more of the same, and she’s quietly suffocating inside a life that no longer fits.
She meets Jonathan Levine at a literary reading for a book that isn’t hers, and the connection is instant. Jonathan is steady, successful, and principled—and, catastrophically, a corporate attorney for Scarlett’s publishing house. He believes in rules and careful boundaries, even as he falls for a woman who runs on instinct and emotion.
As their relationship intensifies, Scarlett wrestles with whether to deliver the book she’s contracted to write or risk walking away. Further complicating matters, her mother reveals a long-buried family secret—one that upends everything Scarlett thought she understood about her parents, her beloved Aunt Tess, and, especially, about herself.
Now, Scarlett must discover who she truly is, mend her family ties, and fight for a future with Jonathan. Following her heart could mean breaching her contract and risking both her career and the man she loves. Staying the course may cost her something even greater: the chance to live—and love—authentically.
376 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication June 3, 2026
About the author
Danielle Smyth
4 books38 followersDanielle Smyth has dreamed of being a writer since childhood, and seeing that dream realized is the ultimate happy ending. When she’s not writing, Danielle runs a small business. Her favorite days are spent traveling, eating tacos, and reading with her family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
May 10, 2026
Review of advanced copy received from the author.
If you love witty banter, a lighthearted romance, and just a touch of spice, this book is definitely worth adding to your list. One of my favorite parts of the story was the chemistry between Jonathan and Scarlett. Their banter felt natural, fun, and perfectly suited to their personalities, making their interactions some of the best moments in the book.
The romance itself was sweet, simple, and easy to enjoy without feeling overly heavy. I also found myself relating to Scarlett in several ways, and I think many women will see pieces of themselves in her character throughout the story.
Overall, this was an enjoyable and feel-good read with lovable characters, entertaining dialogue, and a romance that keeps you smiling along the way.
If you love witty banter, a lighthearted romance, and just a touch of spice, this book is definitely worth adding to your list. One of my favorite parts of the story was the chemistry between Jonathan and Scarlett. Their banter felt natural, fun, and perfectly suited to their personalities, making their interactions some of the best moments in the book.
The romance itself was sweet, simple, and easy to enjoy without feeling overly heavy. I also found myself relating to Scarlett in several ways, and I think many women will see pieces of themselves in her character throughout the story.
Overall, this was an enjoyable and feel-good read with lovable characters, entertaining dialogue, and a romance that keeps you smiling along the way.
May 23, 2026
I’m so glad we got Scarlett and Johnathan’s story! This book is part of a series, but can be read as a standalone. I loved how seamlessly it intertwined with Ghost Writing! The amount of selflessness and pure love that Johnathan shows captured my heart immediately. If you’ve ever felt like you’re too much for someone or have too much energy, this one’s for you! If you’ve ever had a disagreement with family and had to work through it, this one’s for you! Basically, if you love a captivating, swoon worthy, full circle romance then this is for you! Well done again Danielle Smyth!
May 20, 2026
This was my first Danielle Smyth book and I cannot wait to read more from her. Between her laugh out loud banter and adorably sweet and relatable characters I absolutely loved this book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely loved By The Book by Danielle Smyth. 5 stars!
This is Book 3 in Smyth's Ghost Writing series, but it works perfectly as a standalone too. I haven't read the first two and never felt like I was missing anything (though I’ll definitely be going back and reading them now!).
By The Book is full of witty banter, romance, and spice. The chemistry between Jonathan and Scarlett was off the charts. Not to mention Jonathan is a total green flag MMC.
At first, I thought their chemistry maybe developed a little too quickly, but sometimes that's just how it happens. In a world where we're so used to toxic relationships, it can be easy to forget that genuinely good love stories still exist, and this is one of them.
I didn't find Jonathan's "living by the rules" personality and boundaries to be quite as intense as the synopsis initially had me expecting. And, honestly, Jonathan and Scarlett's relationship felt pretty out in the open for something that needed to stay so secret, but it didn't take away from the story for me at all.
Where this one really got me was Scarlett. She's an insecure over-thinker who never quite felt understood by anyone, until Jonathan. I did not expect this Rom-Com to make me cry, but it did. Multiple times.
As someone who was diagnosed with ADHD at 46, after years of telling doctors it was more than anxiety, I felt seen. I think a lot of women will see pieces of themselves in Scarlett throughout this book. While it's never confirmed that Scarlett is neurodivergent, the possibility is there, and it added so much depth to her character.
I also need to mention how much I loved all the music references and Gilmore Girls nods.
I can't thank Danielle Smyth enough for the eARC of By The Book, and allowing me to be part of her street team. It's been such an awesome experience. She truly lets everyone be themselves. There was no required posting order, no required captions, and no required reviews. She welcomed honest feedback and is just a gem of a human being.
This is Book 3 in Smyth's Ghost Writing series, but it works perfectly as a standalone too. I haven't read the first two and never felt like I was missing anything (though I’ll definitely be going back and reading them now!).
By The Book is full of witty banter, romance, and spice. The chemistry between Jonathan and Scarlett was off the charts. Not to mention Jonathan is a total green flag MMC.
At first, I thought their chemistry maybe developed a little too quickly, but sometimes that's just how it happens. In a world where we're so used to toxic relationships, it can be easy to forget that genuinely good love stories still exist, and this is one of them.
I didn't find Jonathan's "living by the rules" personality and boundaries to be quite as intense as the synopsis initially had me expecting. And, honestly, Jonathan and Scarlett's relationship felt pretty out in the open for something that needed to stay so secret, but it didn't take away from the story for me at all.
Where this one really got me was Scarlett. She's an insecure over-thinker who never quite felt understood by anyone, until Jonathan. I did not expect this Rom-Com to make me cry, but it did. Multiple times.
As someone who was diagnosed with ADHD at 46, after years of telling doctors it was more than anxiety, I felt seen. I think a lot of women will see pieces of themselves in Scarlett throughout this book. While it's never confirmed that Scarlett is neurodivergent, the possibility is there, and it added so much depth to her character.
I also need to mention how much I loved all the music references and Gilmore Girls nods.
I can't thank Danielle Smyth enough for the eARC of By The Book, and allowing me to be part of her street team. It's been such an awesome experience. She truly lets everyone be themselves. There was no required posting order, no required captions, and no required reviews. She welcomed honest feedback and is just a gem of a human being.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I got this book as an ARC from Beyond the Books PR for free and in exchange for my honest review, which is posted below.
This story between Scarlett and Jonathan is a fast and heavy love story. I didn’t realize this wasn’t Ms. Smyth’s first book, but you don’t need to have read the others in the series to pick up with this storyline. The story is for the most part cute, has a medium amount of spice (more than I expected, actually) and as a millennial, especially a Gilmore Girls lover, I appreciated all the millennial coded anecdotes.
It’s tough when you’re excited to read a new book and it’s not really your cup of tea to decide what to say. Part of my issue was I found Scarlett to be rather insufferable and the writing of her to be both repetitive and stilted, like she was painstakingly spelling out what she wanted to say instead of just writing and letting it flow. From the beginning, the inscription says “For anyone who has ever been told they are too much” and then within the first five or ten pages, Scarlett is talking about how she’s too much, and then it becomes almost annoying in the repetition of that theme throughout. Scarlett and I wouldn’t get along in real life - she throws tantrums and over things that seem overly inflated, she sabotages herself and her relationships, stomping away instead of just handling it. My dislike of her made her hard to finish but I wanted to be able to be honest and uphold my end of the ARC agreement. I’m sorry it wasn’t any higher a rating from me.
This story between Scarlett and Jonathan is a fast and heavy love story. I didn’t realize this wasn’t Ms. Smyth’s first book, but you don’t need to have read the others in the series to pick up with this storyline. The story is for the most part cute, has a medium amount of spice (more than I expected, actually) and as a millennial, especially a Gilmore Girls lover, I appreciated all the millennial coded anecdotes.
It’s tough when you’re excited to read a new book and it’s not really your cup of tea to decide what to say. Part of my issue was I found Scarlett to be rather insufferable and the writing of her to be both repetitive and stilted, like she was painstakingly spelling out what she wanted to say instead of just writing and letting it flow. From the beginning, the inscription says “For anyone who has ever been told they are too much” and then within the first five or ten pages, Scarlett is talking about how she’s too much, and then it becomes almost annoying in the repetition of that theme throughout. Scarlett and I wouldn’t get along in real life - she throws tantrums and over things that seem overly inflated, she sabotages herself and her relationships, stomping away instead of just handling it. My dislike of her made her hard to finish but I wanted to be able to be honest and uphold my end of the ARC agreement. I’m sorry it wasn’t any higher a rating from me.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
By the Book was such a fun, heartfelt, easy read and I absolutely flew through it in two days.
The witty banter, the golden retriever MMC, the chemistry, all so good! But what really stood out to me was Scarlett’s emotional journey throughout the book. Beneath the romance was a deeper story about unpacking trauma, healing, and learning that falling in love with yourself is just as important as falling in love with someone else.
I loved how Scarlett struggled with writing her second romance novel because she felt like there had to be “more” to a story than simply meeting someone and falling in love. In reality, what she was truly searching for was more for herself, too.
Jonathan was honestly one of the sweetest MMCs ever. I kept waiting for the other shoe to drop because he was almost too supportive and thoughtful… but no. He simply loved Scarlett exactly as she was. He encouraged her, supported her dreams, and never once tried to dim her light.
“Because you don’t need a spotlight to shine.”
Watching Scarlett slowly come into herself, reconcile with her past, and realize she didn’t have to make herself smaller for others was such a beautiful journey to read.
A quick, emotional, feel-good romance with depth, growth, healing, and one of the sweetest love stories I’ve read in a while 🤍
By the Book was such a fun, heartfelt, easy read and I absolutely flew through it in two days.
The witty banter, the golden retriever MMC, the chemistry, all so good! But what really stood out to me was Scarlett’s emotional journey throughout the book. Beneath the romance was a deeper story about unpacking trauma, healing, and learning that falling in love with yourself is just as important as falling in love with someone else.
I loved how Scarlett struggled with writing her second romance novel because she felt like there had to be “more” to a story than simply meeting someone and falling in love. In reality, what she was truly searching for was more for herself, too.
Jonathan was honestly one of the sweetest MMCs ever. I kept waiting for the other shoe to drop because he was almost too supportive and thoughtful… but no. He simply loved Scarlett exactly as she was. He encouraged her, supported her dreams, and never once tried to dim her light.
“Because you don’t need a spotlight to shine.”
Watching Scarlett slowly come into herself, reconcile with her past, and realize she didn’t have to make herself smaller for others was such a beautiful journey to read.
A quick, emotional, feel-good romance with depth, growth, healing, and one of the sweetest love stories I’ve read in a while 🤍
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received a free ARC from the author, Danielle Smyth, but all thoughts are my own. Thank you so much for the opportunity!
I rated this book 4.75 out of 5 stars. I fell head over heels in love with these characters. Every character, including the supporting characters, had such depth and personality that I was sad to say goodbye! Scarlett is our FMC and she is a romance author signed with a romance imprint where our MMC, Jonathan, is legal counsel. The two meet at a book event for another author and the chemistry is palpable.
This is not a simple boy meets girl and didn't feel like a cookie cutter version of the classic tropes. By the Book felt fresh but also familiar in the best way. Reading this book feels like curling up on the couch with a blanket and bowl of chicken noodle soup. Although it was sweet and romantic, it also deals with some real conflict including family drama, workplace issues and neurodivergence.
I truly appreciated the attention and care that the author gave to the topic of neurodivergence and feel that she threaded the needle flawlessly. She made the topic understandable and relatable and I love the way that she brought it into the spotlight without making it the whole story.
If you are a fan of Abby Jimenez or the Gilmore Girls (you'll understand later), please do not walk but RUN to get this book!
I rated this book 4.75 out of 5 stars. I fell head over heels in love with these characters. Every character, including the supporting characters, had such depth and personality that I was sad to say goodbye! Scarlett is our FMC and she is a romance author signed with a romance imprint where our MMC, Jonathan, is legal counsel. The two meet at a book event for another author and the chemistry is palpable.
This is not a simple boy meets girl and didn't feel like a cookie cutter version of the classic tropes. By the Book felt fresh but also familiar in the best way. Reading this book feels like curling up on the couch with a blanket and bowl of chicken noodle soup. Although it was sweet and romantic, it also deals with some real conflict including family drama, workplace issues and neurodivergence.
I truly appreciated the attention and care that the author gave to the topic of neurodivergence and feel that she threaded the needle flawlessly. She made the topic understandable and relatable and I love the way that she brought it into the spotlight without making it the whole story.
If you are a fan of Abby Jimenez or the Gilmore Girls (you'll understand later), please do not walk but RUN to get this book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Emotional depth, character growth, and romance tension. By the Book by Danielle Smyth is an emotional, character-driven romance that beautifully explores identity, love, and the cost of choosing yourself.
Scarlett Sinclair is a romance author who can write perfect love stories—but struggles to live one. When she meets Jonathan Levine, a principled corporate attorney tied to her publishing world, their connection is instant, complicated, and impossible to ignore.
What makes this story especially engaging is the balance between external conflict (career pressure, contract obligations, family secrets) and internal conflict (self-worth, fear of change, and emotional vulnerability).
As their relationship deepens, Scarlett is forced to confront not only her professional life but also long-buried truths about her family and herself—making her journey as much about self-discovery as romance.
This book includes:
* slow-burn contemporary romance
* workplace / professional tension
* forbidden relationship elements
* family secrets and emotional revelations
* writer / publishing industry setting
* self-discovery and identity themes
It’s heartfelt, reflective, and deeply emotional, with a strong focus on what it means to choose authenticity over expectation.
Scarlett Sinclair is a romance author who can write perfect love stories—but struggles to live one. When she meets Jonathan Levine, a principled corporate attorney tied to her publishing world, their connection is instant, complicated, and impossible to ignore.
What makes this story especially engaging is the balance between external conflict (career pressure, contract obligations, family secrets) and internal conflict (self-worth, fear of change, and emotional vulnerability).
As their relationship deepens, Scarlett is forced to confront not only her professional life but also long-buried truths about her family and herself—making her journey as much about self-discovery as romance.
This book includes:
* slow-burn contemporary romance
* workplace / professional tension
* forbidden relationship elements
* family secrets and emotional revelations
* writer / publishing industry setting
* self-discovery and identity themes
It’s heartfelt, reflective, and deeply emotional, with a strong focus on what it means to choose authenticity over expectation.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Simply put: This book made me smile.
The way that Jonathan loves Scarlett is everything. He puts his job and heart on the line, paying attention to the littlest of details. Their banter right from the start had me hooked. I'm not usually an instant attraction fan, but these two just felt right together.
The banter continues for the spicey scenes! I liked the lawyer and contract innuendos; it wasn'tover the top, but it was a reminderthat their relationship was forbidden. The office screen was so out of character for Jonathan, but yet it was also perfect for them. 🥵
They play Scattegories and watch Gilmore Girls! I want to be their friend. Also, because the way they are there for each other through sadness and happiness is something special.
Scarlett sees herself as being too much. I was wishing she would love herself more and believe those that love her. Eventually, she learns that her "too much" isn't a bad thing and it's an asset to be able to change paths to make herself happy.
If you're looking for a forbidden workplace romance between a lawyer and a romance writer, this is for you! It releases June 6, 2026.
Thank you Danielle Smith for the gifted eARC and the chance to provide my honest opinions.
The way that Jonathan loves Scarlett is everything. He puts his job and heart on the line, paying attention to the littlest of details. Their banter right from the start had me hooked. I'm not usually an instant attraction fan, but these two just felt right together.
The banter continues for the spicey scenes! I liked the lawyer and contract innuendos; it wasn'tover the top, but it was a reminderthat their relationship was forbidden. The office screen was so out of character for Jonathan, but yet it was also perfect for them. 🥵
They play Scattegories and watch Gilmore Girls! I want to be their friend. Also, because the way they are there for each other through sadness and happiness is something special.
Scarlett sees herself as being too much. I was wishing she would love herself more and believe those that love her. Eventually, she learns that her "too much" isn't a bad thing and it's an asset to be able to change paths to make herself happy.
If you're looking for a forbidden workplace romance between a lawyer and a romance writer, this is for you! It releases June 6, 2026.
Thank you Danielle Smith for the gifted eARC and the chance to provide my honest opinions.
Review of advance copy received from Author
#AdvancedReaderCopy
Title: By the Book: Ghost Writing
Author: Danielle Smyth
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Pages: 326
Rating: 4⭐️/5
“First rule of secret dating—always read your contract thoroughly.”
Scarlett Sinclair is a romance author whose personal life is quietly falling apart behind the scenes. While struggling with career pressure and expectations from her publisher, she unexpectedly falls for Jonathan Levine, a lawyer connected to her publishing company. As their relationship deepens and painful family secrets come to light, Scarlett must choose between the safe life she’s always known and risking everything for love and the chance to finally be true to herself.
This was such a cozy and easy read with fun banter, bookish vibes, and plenty of Gilmore Girls references that honestly worked on me every time. The romance slowly pulls you in, and Scarlett felt very real and relatable, especially with the subtle hints that she may be neurodivergent, which added even more depth to her character. It’s definitely more slow-paced, but the emotional moments and comforting atmosphere made it a really enjoyable read for me.
A big thanks to Beyond the Books PR and Danielle Smyth for providing me with a digital ARC of this book!
Releasing 06/03/2026 on Amazon, KU and paperback.
Title: By the Book: Ghost Writing
Author: Danielle Smyth
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Pages: 326
Rating: 4⭐️/5
“First rule of secret dating—always read your contract thoroughly.”
Scarlett Sinclair is a romance author whose personal life is quietly falling apart behind the scenes. While struggling with career pressure and expectations from her publisher, she unexpectedly falls for Jonathan Levine, a lawyer connected to her publishing company. As their relationship deepens and painful family secrets come to light, Scarlett must choose between the safe life she’s always known and risking everything for love and the chance to finally be true to herself.
This was such a cozy and easy read with fun banter, bookish vibes, and plenty of Gilmore Girls references that honestly worked on me every time. The romance slowly pulls you in, and Scarlett felt very real and relatable, especially with the subtle hints that she may be neurodivergent, which added even more depth to her character. It’s definitely more slow-paced, but the emotional moments and comforting atmosphere made it a really enjoyable read for me.
A big thanks to Beyond the Books PR and Danielle Smyth for providing me with a digital ARC of this book!
Releasing 06/03/2026 on Amazon, KU and paperback.
May 13, 2026
You guys, I don’t even know where to begin. I equally parts adore this book and am scared of how deeply it resonates with me. Danielle’s writing is so fluid and easy that it’s hard to not get sucked in and reading an entire book in a day. The story between Jonathan and Scarlett is sweet, slow, and light. There is a perfect balance of witty banter, chemistry, and emotional pull that makes you rise and fall in well-crafted waves of feeling throughout the book.
If you:
🩵 Ever feel like too much
🩵 Ever experience family discourse that feels like it wrecks you
🩵 Love a green flag MMC that will go to any length to protect your heart
🩵 Find you are sometimes searching for pieces of yourself you can’t quite reach
…this book is a great read for you! This is actually the 3rd book in her series and I read out of order so now I have the other two queued up on Kindle! I was able to read it out of order without confusion and…I hear another book may drop in this series soon 🤭
Thank you to the author for the advanced copy and for (once again) allowing me to promote and support another incredible story!
If you:
🩵 Ever feel like too much
🩵 Ever experience family discourse that feels like it wrecks you
🩵 Love a green flag MMC that will go to any length to protect your heart
🩵 Find you are sometimes searching for pieces of yourself you can’t quite reach
…this book is a great read for you! This is actually the 3rd book in her series and I read out of order so now I have the other two queued up on Kindle! I was able to read it out of order without confusion and…I hear another book may drop in this series soon 🤭
Thank you to the author for the advanced copy and for (once again) allowing me to promote and support another incredible story!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I just finished By the Book by Danielle Smyth, if you’re looking for a banter filled novel, this is it.
This is a stoic/sunshine romance… although Jonathan, our “stoic” MMC, didn’t feel very stoic to me. Unless I’m the stoic in denial. Lol. Either way, I loved him. He was sweet and flirty from the beginning, and always consistently respectful in a way that made him really easy to root for.
Scarlett, the FMC, felt very relatable to me. I found myself really feeling for her throughout the story. She’s incredibly hard on herself, and that internal pressure shows up in so many ways. Watching her slowly soften and begin to heal after meeting Jonathan was one of my favorite parts of the book.
This is definitely a slow burn, but the banter carries the story really well and keeps the pacing enjoyable. It never felt stagnant, even in the quieter moments.
Overall, I really enjoyed this novel. It’s soft, a little witty, and quietly healing.
This is a stoic/sunshine romance… although Jonathan, our “stoic” MMC, didn’t feel very stoic to me. Unless I’m the stoic in denial. Lol. Either way, I loved him. He was sweet and flirty from the beginning, and always consistently respectful in a way that made him really easy to root for.
Scarlett, the FMC, felt very relatable to me. I found myself really feeling for her throughout the story. She’s incredibly hard on herself, and that internal pressure shows up in so many ways. Watching her slowly soften and begin to heal after meeting Jonathan was one of my favorite parts of the book.
This is definitely a slow burn, but the banter carries the story really well and keeps the pacing enjoyable. It never felt stagnant, even in the quieter moments.
Overall, I really enjoyed this novel. It’s soft, a little witty, and quietly healing.
Review of advance copy received from Author
By the Book by Danielle Smyth is a delightful, meta romance that hits all the right notes. Scarlett Sinclair, a successful romance novelist facing a looming deadline and contract pressures, finds her perfectly plotted life upended by Jonathan Levine, the sharp-witted attorney at her publishing house.
Smyth masterfully blends humor, heat, and heartfelt moments as the pair navigate professional boundaries and undeniable chemistry, with Scarlett’s own fictional tropes bleeding into her reality in the most entertaining ways. The banter crackles with wit, the supporting cast adds charm without overwhelming the central love story, and the “by the book” tension builds to a satisfying, swoon-worthy payoff.
Fans of contemporary romance with a literary twist will devour this one—sweet yet spicy, clever yet comforting. It’s the perfect escapist read that reminds you why we fall for love stories in the first place. Highly recommended for your summer TBR!
Smyth masterfully blends humor, heat, and heartfelt moments as the pair navigate professional boundaries and undeniable chemistry, with Scarlett’s own fictional tropes bleeding into her reality in the most entertaining ways. The banter crackles with wit, the supporting cast adds charm without overwhelming the central love story, and the “by the book” tension builds to a satisfying, swoon-worthy payoff.
Fans of contemporary romance with a literary twist will devour this one—sweet yet spicy, clever yet comforting. It’s the perfect escapist read that reminds you why we fall for love stories in the first place. Highly recommended for your summer TBR!
May 8, 2026
✔️ Banter so good I wanted to highlight entire conversations
✔️ Gilmore Girls references for the emotionally fragile among us
✔️ Chemistry that had me grinning at my phone like a lunatic
✔️ Cozy bookish vibes with actual emotional depth
✔️ The kind of romance you accidentally binge instead of sleeping
This book felt like a warm cup of coffee, rapid-fire banter, and emotionally avoiding your problems through books and sarcasm. Which, honestly, is my favorite genre.
The dialogue was sharp, funny, and completely addictive in that “just one more chapter” way that immediately turns into staying up way too late with no regard for tomorrow’s responsibilities.
And the Gilmore Girls references? Immediate emotional manipulation. Worked perfectly on me.Huge thanks to Danielle Smyth for letting me be part of the street team for this one
✔️ Gilmore Girls references for the emotionally fragile among us
✔️ Chemistry that had me grinning at my phone like a lunatic
✔️ Cozy bookish vibes with actual emotional depth
✔️ The kind of romance you accidentally binge instead of sleeping
This book felt like a warm cup of coffee, rapid-fire banter, and emotionally avoiding your problems through books and sarcasm. Which, honestly, is my favorite genre.
The dialogue was sharp, funny, and completely addictive in that “just one more chapter” way that immediately turns into staying up way too late with no regard for tomorrow’s responsibilities.
And the Gilmore Girls references? Immediate emotional manipulation. Worked perfectly on me.Huge thanks to Danielle Smyth for letting me be part of the street team for this one
Review of advance copy received from Author
By the Book connects to Ghost Writer in a really interesting way since Scarlett is Callie’s roommate, and I appreciated getting to see that overlap between the stories and characters. I think readers who enjoyed Ghost Writer will especially like revisiting that world from a different perspective.
One thing I genuinely appreciated was the way the author seemed to incorporate the possibility that Scarlett is undiagnosed neurodivergent. Some of her thoughts, behaviors, and struggles felt very relatable and added depth to her character.
While the story itself was a little too slow-paced for me, I can still see this working well for readers who enjoy quieter, character-driven stories that focus heavily on relationships and emotional growth.
Thank you to the author Danielle for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
One thing I genuinely appreciated was the way the author seemed to incorporate the possibility that Scarlett is undiagnosed neurodivergent. Some of her thoughts, behaviors, and struggles felt very relatable and added depth to her character.
While the story itself was a little too slow-paced for me, I can still see this working well for readers who enjoy quieter, character-driven stories that focus heavily on relationships and emotional growth.
Thank you to the author Danielle for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 8, 2026
By The Book by Danielle Smyth is a sweet, touching and thought provoking contemporary romance. It follows Scarlett (FMC) and her journey of being an author, finding love and self discovery. Danielle Smyth’s writing is perfect. I related to Scarlett so much as someone who often doesn’t feel seen or Im too much for people. When you find those people who truly see you and love you, you value those relationships so much. The connection of Scarlett and Jonathan is so honest, upfront, and refreshing. No games being played. Loved it.
This book checks off some great tropes, golden retriever/sunshine, secret relationship, family struggles, spice, and humor to name a few.
I absolutely will be recommending this gem of a book.
This book checks off some great tropes, golden retriever/sunshine, secret relationship, family struggles, spice, and humor to name a few.
I absolutely will be recommending this gem of a book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Accepting yourself is hard. Learning to love who you are and how you function is just had hard.
This book is a wonderful story of just that.
In By the Book, Scarlett, the FMC, had always felt like she was “extra”. In reality she isn’t. She’s a person full of ideas and energy. I think many of us women can relate to the feeling of being “extra” or all over the place. The way Danielle writes her story is a great example of learning to love who you are and how you were made.
Let’s also not forget the cinnamon roll male lead Jonathan who would do anything for her. He’s a guy all women want!
I definitely recommend this book! It’s an easy and fun read, perfect for that weekend or beach trip.
Many thanks to the author for the ARC to review!
This book is a wonderful story of just that.
In By the Book, Scarlett, the FMC, had always felt like she was “extra”. In reality she isn’t. She’s a person full of ideas and energy. I think many of us women can relate to the feeling of being “extra” or all over the place. The way Danielle writes her story is a great example of learning to love who you are and how you were made.
Let’s also not forget the cinnamon roll male lead Jonathan who would do anything for her. He’s a guy all women want!
I definitely recommend this book! It’s an easy and fun read, perfect for that weekend or beach trip.
Many thanks to the author for the ARC to review!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Books about books, romance authors, and the publishing process - sign me up! Bookish people are the best people, after all. Come for tropes like forbidden romance, opposites attract, secret workplace romance, and stay for a story that's both sweet and steamy, with a realistic feeling relationship that you will be rooting for!
Scarlett is a romance author, but she's in a bit of a rut. Her publisher wants more of the same, and she's having trouble delivering. At a book event to gather some inspiration, she meets Jonathan. He's handsome, funny, smart...and happens to be the contract lawyer for her publisher. The attraction is instant and mutual, and the two start to see each other despite a potential conflict of interest. Tensions start to rise amidst complicated family dynamics in both of their lives, and come to a breaking point when Scarlett realizes she may need to back out of her contract.
Scarlett and Jonathan were such an adorable couple. Their communication was excellent, which I appreciated a lot. He was calm and collected, and when she felt like she was "too much," he assured her that she was exactly what he needed and desired. You will love both the steamy and sweet moments, the focus on a healthy relationship, and the relatable ways they show each other they care. This one needs to be on your summer reading list!
Scarlett is a romance author, but she's in a bit of a rut. Her publisher wants more of the same, and she's having trouble delivering. At a book event to gather some inspiration, she meets Jonathan. He's handsome, funny, smart...and happens to be the contract lawyer for her publisher. The attraction is instant and mutual, and the two start to see each other despite a potential conflict of interest. Tensions start to rise amidst complicated family dynamics in both of their lives, and come to a breaking point when Scarlett realizes she may need to back out of her contract.
Scarlett and Jonathan were such an adorable couple. Their communication was excellent, which I appreciated a lot. He was calm and collected, and when she felt like she was "too much," he assured her that she was exactly what he needed and desired. You will love both the steamy and sweet moments, the focus on a healthy relationship, and the relatable ways they show each other they care. This one needs to be on your summer reading list!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Danielle Smyth delivers another winner with By the Book! This contemporary romance follows romance novelist Scarlett Sinclair and the strict attorney Jonathan Levine who’s supposed to hold her accountable to her contract. What begins as conflict quickly turns into sizzling chemistry and genuine connection.
Smyth excels at creating lovable, flawed characters, sharp witty dialogue, and the perfect blend of heart and heat. The tension builds beautifully, and the emotional payoff feels earned and satisfying.
If you enjoy fun romances with depth and a happily-ever-after, this one is a must-read. Highly recommended! 📖❤️
Smyth excels at creating lovable, flawed characters, sharp witty dialogue, and the perfect blend of heart and heat. The tension builds beautifully, and the emotional payoff feels earned and satisfying.
If you enjoy fun romances with depth and a happily-ever-after, this one is a must-read. Highly recommended! 📖❤️
Review of advance copy
I received an eARC from Beyond the Books PR
3.5 ⭐ rounded up
This book was definitely cute, but it moved a little too slow for my personal taste. I think I went in wanting and expecting a bit more drama to drive the plot, but I can see a lot of people really loving this one!
The slow burn romance between Scarlett and Jonathan was really sweet. I definitely felt a sense of solidarity with Scarlett and her struggle with being labeled 'too much'...Watching her journey was a huge highlight for me. Overall, it’s a story that heavily focuses on character development and learning to be true to yourself. It's a great choice if you're looking for a cozy, feel-good romance!
3.5 ⭐ rounded up
This book was definitely cute, but it moved a little too slow for my personal taste. I think I went in wanting and expecting a bit more drama to drive the plot, but I can see a lot of people really loving this one!
The slow burn romance between Scarlett and Jonathan was really sweet. I definitely felt a sense of solidarity with Scarlett and her struggle with being labeled 'too much'...Watching her journey was a huge highlight for me. Overall, it’s a story that heavily focuses on character development and learning to be true to yourself. It's a great choice if you're looking for a cozy, feel-good romance!
May 23, 2026
Hello, people!
First of all, let me mention that this book is the third book in the Ghost Writing series.
The protagonists are Scarlett and Jonathan, whose chemistry is fantastic and intense. The lines between them are on fire, as is the humor.
The plot is balanced and entertaining and the atmosphere is very cozy, so much so that I really loved it. The dialogues cause plenty of laughter and leave a smile on your face. Also, it is a book that is breathless and easy to read.
The author's writing is sweet, enjoyable, tender, romantic, warm, fast, simple and pleasant.
Thank you very much to the author and Beyond The Books PR for the eARC!
This is my honest review!
First of all, let me mention that this book is the third book in the Ghost Writing series.
The protagonists are Scarlett and Jonathan, whose chemistry is fantastic and intense. The lines between them are on fire, as is the humor.
The plot is balanced and entertaining and the atmosphere is very cozy, so much so that I really loved it. The dialogues cause plenty of laughter and leave a smile on your face. Also, it is a book that is breathless and easy to read.
The author's writing is sweet, enjoyable, tender, romantic, warm, fast, simple and pleasant.
Thank you very much to the author and Beyond The Books PR for the eARC!
This is my honest review!
May 24, 2026
Wow! By the Book starts subtly. I was lured in with the romance, waiting for the other shoe to drop, with perfect Jonathon, to be too good to be true. Instead, Danielle Smyth created my exact book boyfriend- smart, sexy, and watched Gilmore Girls with her? Swoooon.
The deep story is about Scarlett herself. The woman who is too much. Always forgetting her keys, spilling food, and jumping from one activity to the next. What starts as quirky, possibly scatterbrained, quietly pulls you underneath the surface as you understand the why in who Scarlett is and how that’s her superpower.
Highly recommend.
The deep story is about Scarlett herself. The woman who is too much. Always forgetting her keys, spilling food, and jumping from one activity to the next. What starts as quirky, possibly scatterbrained, quietly pulls you underneath the surface as you understand the why in who Scarlett is and how that’s her superpower.
Highly recommend.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to Danielle Smyth for allowing me to continue to be a part of her ARC Street Team! This is the fourth book of hers that I have read, and she has a reader for life! This is my honest review.
We were first introduced to Scarlett and Jonathan in "Ghost Writing", and believe me when I tell you I jumped up and down to learn that I was chosen to be apart of the street team for "By the Book".
As with all great books, you must decide whether you want to read it all in one sitting, or savor it. I chose to only allow myself a couple chapters a day to make it last longer.
Scarlett and Jonathan share wonderful chemistry and fun interactions that had me laughing and even swooning over Jonathan's pure love for Scarlett. I am glad I had the opportunity to read "Ghost Writing" first because then I at least knew that somehow everything would worked out (because a few times I was seriously worried about them both giving everything up for the other one).
Aside from the romance, we also get family drama and dynamics, from both main characters, which really adds depth to the story.
Thank you Danielle, for writing such wonderful books!
We were first introduced to Scarlett and Jonathan in "Ghost Writing", and believe me when I tell you I jumped up and down to learn that I was chosen to be apart of the street team for "By the Book".
As with all great books, you must decide whether you want to read it all in one sitting, or savor it. I chose to only allow myself a couple chapters a day to make it last longer.
Scarlett and Jonathan share wonderful chemistry and fun interactions that had me laughing and even swooning over Jonathan's pure love for Scarlett. I am glad I had the opportunity to read "Ghost Writing" first because then I at least knew that somehow everything would worked out (because a few times I was seriously worried about them both giving everything up for the other one).
Aside from the romance, we also get family drama and dynamics, from both main characters, which really adds depth to the story.
Thank you Danielle, for writing such wonderful books!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Jonathan was the perfect book boyfriend and I really enjoyed the banter between him and Scarlett. The plot was very interesting and unique. There was a focus on heavy topics from family drama to neurodivergence. I really liked their relationship throughout the book, but felt very frustrated at times. I also kind of felt like Scarlett kept victimizing herself which made it somewhat difficult for me to read, but I understood her thoughts behind that. I’m really appreciative of Danielle for giving me this opportunity to read her new book!
May 23, 2026
ADVANCE READER COPY REVIEW
This was my first Danielle Smyth book and I rally enjoyed it. The way she wrote Scarlett’s character was really realistic. I enjoy a good banter and this book definitely had it. Danielle did a magnificent job with integrating neurodivergence in her story. Not just the struggles the person faces, but how it affects the people around them especially with older population that saw it as an “issue” or wanting to sweep it under the rug. I finished the book in 1 day because I had to know how it ended.
This was my first Danielle Smyth book and I rally enjoyed it. The way she wrote Scarlett’s character was really realistic. I enjoy a good banter and this book definitely had it. Danielle did a magnificent job with integrating neurodivergence in her story. Not just the struggles the person faces, but how it affects the people around them especially with older population that saw it as an “issue” or wanting to sweep it under the rug. I finished the book in 1 day because I had to know how it ended.
May 3, 2026
The banter is bantering!
I devoured this book in one weekend! I loved Scarlett and Jonathon. Their connection, respect for each other, and camaraderie with each others friends was heartwarming from start to finish. Even more than the romance, I loved Scarlett and her journey of self-discovery. This was such a great story about how having the right people in your corner can make all the difference in believing in yourself.
Now I want a whole book with Margaret and Tess!
I devoured this book in one weekend! I loved Scarlett and Jonathon. Their connection, respect for each other, and camaraderie with each others friends was heartwarming from start to finish. Even more than the romance, I loved Scarlett and her journey of self-discovery. This was such a great story about how having the right people in your corner can make all the difference in believing in yourself.
Now I want a whole book with Margaret and Tess!
Review of advance copy received from Author
By the Book was delightful, heartwarming, and thought provoking.
Scarlett was a constantly insecure overthinker who found a connection with lawyer, Jonathan. Their banter and chemistry were cute and undeniable, but Scarlett's contract with Golden Hour meant Jonathan (who enforces contracts) should be off-limits. Secret dating should be a solution, right? Wrong!
I loved seeing how dedicated Jonathan was to building up Scarlett and supporting her as a whole person, not just her writing career. Being able to process new information and trauma from her family and childhood, Jonathan proved he would always show up.
Scarlett was so used to being unsupported that she failed to recognize her real value as a person. Her and Jonathan's issues with their parents were relatable and allowed the story to show their partnership and growing love.
I did feel like Jonathan was painted in the blurb as more of a buttoned-up Type A, inflexible person than he was in reality. They really did compliment one another with more balance than a full opposites attract idea in my mind.
I was delighted by side characters and how they helped reveal qualities of our MMC and FMC and I look forward to reading other books in this world!
Thanks to the author for gifting me with an early review copy in exchange for my honest review.
Scarlett was a constantly insecure overthinker who found a connection with lawyer, Jonathan. Their banter and chemistry were cute and undeniable, but Scarlett's contract with Golden Hour meant Jonathan (who enforces contracts) should be off-limits. Secret dating should be a solution, right? Wrong!
I loved seeing how dedicated Jonathan was to building up Scarlett and supporting her as a whole person, not just her writing career. Being able to process new information and trauma from her family and childhood, Jonathan proved he would always show up.
Scarlett was so used to being unsupported that she failed to recognize her real value as a person. Her and Jonathan's issues with their parents were relatable and allowed the story to show their partnership and growing love.
I did feel like Jonathan was painted in the blurb as more of a buttoned-up Type A, inflexible person than he was in reality. They really did compliment one another with more balance than a full opposites attract idea in my mind.
I was delighted by side characters and how they helped reveal qualities of our MMC and FMC and I look forward to reading other books in this world!
Thanks to the author for gifting me with an early review copy in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book is perfect if you are looking for a book where the main character is trying to figure out what to do with her life and in drops one of the most perfect book boyfriends to ever exist! I loved everything about the two of them and the entire journey they went on while figuring it out, plus everything that Jonathan said was just a perfect response.
Thank you to the author for letting me be part of the review and content team for this book!
Thank you to the author for letting me be part of the review and content team for this book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
My first foray into the Ghost Writing series, and I immediately had to download Danielle Smyth's prior books after reading this one! Scarlett and Jonathan have immediate chemistry...and a business relationship that makes things complicated--but who doesn't love that? And when you throw in banter that keeps you smiling and a realistic portrayal of what neurodivergence can look like, you've got a winner!
A big thank you to the author for this advanced copy.
A big thank you to the author for this advanced copy.
May 24, 2026
Okay so let’s talk about this book...
Reading this felt like the coziest rainy day blanket, hot tea, nowhere to be. It's a sweet romance with the most amazing banter, but it's also so much more than that.
Also the Gilmore Girls references?? Completely made my day. This book is part of a series but can be read perfectly as a standalone.
And the MMC has glasses. A hot MMC. With glasses. I don't make the rules but that alone should have you running to place your order.
But honestly? If you've ever felt like you were too much - this book is for you. I hope you find your Jonathan, the one who makes you feel like you're not too much at all.
Pre-orders are open now, book drops 3rd June. Go get yours! 🫶
Reading this felt like the coziest rainy day blanket, hot tea, nowhere to be. It's a sweet romance with the most amazing banter, but it's also so much more than that.
Also the Gilmore Girls references?? Completely made my day. This book is part of a series but can be read perfectly as a standalone.
And the MMC has glasses. A hot MMC. With glasses. I don't make the rules but that alone should have you running to place your order.
But honestly? If you've ever felt like you were too much - this book is for you. I hope you find your Jonathan, the one who makes you feel like you're not too much at all.
Pre-orders are open now, book drops 3rd June. Go get yours! 🫶
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