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It Audit Be You
277 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 30, 2026
About the author
Madylen Valdes
2 books28 followersMadylen Valdes is a passionate fiction writer, weaving heartfelt stories that explore love, growth, and the complexities of human emotions. When she’s not writing, she enjoys spending time with her husband and their beloved dog, Nina. To find more of her work, visit www.thearchivesofmadylenvaldes.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley & Madylen Valdes for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
ʚ🩷ɞ 𝕣𝕚𝕡 @ 𝟙𝟝% ʚ🩷ɞ
the writing was perfectly unhinged but the fmc is not likeable enough for me to continue (im sorry im sorry!!)
ʚ🩷ɞ 𝕤𝕠𝕗𝕥 𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕕 ʚ🩷ɞ
this is one of the best arcs i've read so far
ʚ🩷ɞ 𝕣𝕚𝕡 @ 𝟙𝟝% ʚ🩷ɞ
the writing was perfectly unhinged but the fmc is not likeable enough for me to continue (im sorry im sorry!!)
ʚ🩷ɞ 𝕤𝕠𝕗𝕥 𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕕 ʚ🩷ɞ
this is one of the best arcs i've read so far
July 23, 2026
✨ARC Book Review✨
I devoured this book!
The story follows Louisa, whose whole life changes dramatically after she catches her boyfriend cheating on her. She also quits her job to help out her mom and eventually finds herself starting a new job. There, she comes face to face with Jackson, an old friend she went to law school with.
The minute she saw Jackson, I knew there was a story between them that I was dying to know. If sis could’ve disappeared, she would’ve gone full Casper. Their banter was so intriguing because you could tell they were both affected by seeing each other again.
I loved how the story alternated between the past and the present, allowing the reader to see Louisa and Jackson’s history. I could see both of their points of views, but I’m with Louisa!
Back in the present timeline, the slow burn was everything! I wanted them to figure things out so badly because you could just feel how compatible they were. There chemistry was totally still there, and every interaction had me wanting more!
I thought this book was so well done and such a fun workplace romance!
I devoured this book!
The story follows Louisa, whose whole life changes dramatically after she catches her boyfriend cheating on her. She also quits her job to help out her mom and eventually finds herself starting a new job. There, she comes face to face with Jackson, an old friend she went to law school with.
The minute she saw Jackson, I knew there was a story between them that I was dying to know. If sis could’ve disappeared, she would’ve gone full Casper. Their banter was so intriguing because you could tell they were both affected by seeing each other again.
I loved how the story alternated between the past and the present, allowing the reader to see Louisa and Jackson’s history. I could see both of their points of views, but I’m with Louisa!
Back in the present timeline, the slow burn was everything! I wanted them to figure things out so badly because you could just feel how compatible they were. There chemistry was totally still there, and every interaction had me wanting more!
I thought this book was so well done and such a fun workplace romance!
August 1, 2026
This was an ABSOLUTE DELIGHT of a book.
It Audit Be You is laugh-out-loud funny and wildly endearing at the same time. Lou and Jackson are friends to enemies to coworkers to ??? in this workplace romantic comedy.
There was so much to love about this story. The side characters were brilliant. Louisa’s mom with her taxidermy, Marnie and her astrology, Brad and his tropical fish. I was certainly not expecting Lou’s unhoused neighbor to be one of my favorite characters, but Russell was a LEGEND.
Lou and Jackson’s chemistry is so good, it’s honestly wild that they spent their law school years as just friends. The events of the first few chapters were an absolutely outlandish setup that were just unbelievable enough to be believable. You know when you just have one of those days where so much goes sideways that you couldn’t possibly be surprised by what happens next? Louisa’s day is like that, and sets her on a trajectory that puts her back on the path the universe clearly always intended for her.
This is peak contemporary romantic comedy. Closed-door romance, medium stakes, giggles, tears, mustache jokes. I 100% recommend for a day by the pool when you’re craving an HEA.
It Audit Be You is laugh-out-loud funny and wildly endearing at the same time. Lou and Jackson are friends to enemies to coworkers to ??? in this workplace romantic comedy.
There was so much to love about this story. The side characters were brilliant. Louisa’s mom with her taxidermy, Marnie and her astrology, Brad and his tropical fish. I was certainly not expecting Lou’s unhoused neighbor to be one of my favorite characters, but Russell was a LEGEND.
Lou and Jackson’s chemistry is so good, it’s honestly wild that they spent their law school years as just friends. The events of the first few chapters were an absolutely outlandish setup that were just unbelievable enough to be believable. You know when you just have one of those days where so much goes sideways that you couldn’t possibly be surprised by what happens next? Louisa’s day is like that, and sets her on a trajectory that puts her back on the path the universe clearly always intended for her.
This is peak contemporary romantic comedy. Closed-door romance, medium stakes, giggles, tears, mustache jokes. I 100% recommend for a day by the pool when you’re craving an HEA.
July 28, 2026
Spice: 🌶️.5
No open door scenes. There is one scene where they get close and……it’s probably the funniest moment of the book. Total #nipplehairgate situation 😂😂😂
Marnie the roommate, star of the book! 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
I had such a fun time reading this book. Quick and light read. Lou is a put together mess. We all probably see a little of ourselves in her. She has a great job, supportive mom, and still she’s dissatisfied with life and wants more. Jackson is her wealthy ex-bff who ruined all those plans they had. Both are incredibly loveable. You want them to succeed. There are clear villains from the start. Simon the ex and Megan Ms. Pick Me are 🤢🤢🤢
Wish there had been a dual POV. I really wanted to know what Jackson was thinking half the time.
Tropes: Friends (enemies now) to lovers, second chances, workplace romance, forced proximity, slow burn, he fell first and obsessed, mustached MMC (if you’re into that lol)
Note: Thank you to the author for sharing this eARC with me.
No open door scenes. There is one scene where they get close and……it’s probably the funniest moment of the book. Total #nipplehairgate situation 😂😂😂
Marnie the roommate, star of the book! 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
I had such a fun time reading this book. Quick and light read. Lou is a put together mess. We all probably see a little of ourselves in her. She has a great job, supportive mom, and still she’s dissatisfied with life and wants more. Jackson is her wealthy ex-bff who ruined all those plans they had. Both are incredibly loveable. You want them to succeed. There are clear villains from the start. Simon the ex and Megan Ms. Pick Me are 🤢🤢🤢
Wish there had been a dual POV. I really wanted to know what Jackson was thinking half the time.
Tropes: Friends (enemies now) to lovers, second chances, workplace romance, forced proximity, slow burn, he fell first and obsessed, mustached MMC (if you’re into that lol)
Note: Thank you to the author for sharing this eARC with me.
July 27, 2026
“Life is about choices. The most important choice you can make is the one to be happy.”
It Audit Be You is funny and heartwarming and it got me so nostalgic for early 2000s romcoms.
Louisa Kalluk is looking for a fresh start after her boyfriend Simon (“good-for-nothing, t-shirt-during-sexy-time loser”) cheats on her. So, she moves to another city and gets a job at a law firm where she bumps into her ex-best friend Jackson. Sparks fly as these two reconnect and heal old wounds.
Louisa and Jackson were great – they had tender moments and funny banter. But, what really made this story even more special were the quirky side characters. Marnie, Herb, and Russell stole the show for me.
At under 300 pages, this book is short and sweet and can easily be binged in a day or two.
What to expect:
🩷 Second chance romance
🩷 Friends to enemies to lovers
🩷 Found family
🩷 Forced proximity
🩷 Closed-door slow burn
🩷 Dual timeline
“You are beautifully and perfectly imperfect—from your head down to your hammerhead big toes.”
Thank you Maddie for the ARC!
It Audit Be You is funny and heartwarming and it got me so nostalgic for early 2000s romcoms.
Louisa Kalluk is looking for a fresh start after her boyfriend Simon (“good-for-nothing, t-shirt-during-sexy-time loser”) cheats on her. So, she moves to another city and gets a job at a law firm where she bumps into her ex-best friend Jackson. Sparks fly as these two reconnect and heal old wounds.
Louisa and Jackson were great – they had tender moments and funny banter. But, what really made this story even more special were the quirky side characters. Marnie, Herb, and Russell stole the show for me.
At under 300 pages, this book is short and sweet and can easily be binged in a day or two.
What to expect:
🩷 Second chance romance
🩷 Friends to enemies to lovers
🩷 Found family
🩷 Forced proximity
🩷 Closed-door slow burn
🩷 Dual timeline
“You are beautifully and perfectly imperfect—from your head down to your hammerhead big toes.”
Thank you Maddie for the ARC!
August 5, 2026
•it audit be you💸- madylen valdes•
a nice and easy read, perfect for those looking for something light and comical whilst also having the troublesome moments that we call life!
i enjoyed the dynamics between lou & jackson, the comments they would make towards each other and the direction in which their relationship is heading. but. i would have also liked to have seen a lot more from them living in the moment and building their life together after so much back and forth between them both.
simon ground my gears. that man. ugh.
thank you to @netgalley & @victoryeditingngc for the arc approval💫
a nice and easy read, perfect for those looking for something light and comical whilst also having the troublesome moments that we call life!
i enjoyed the dynamics between lou & jackson, the comments they would make towards each other and the direction in which their relationship is heading. but. i would have also liked to have seen a lot more from them living in the moment and building their life together after so much back and forth between them both.
simon ground my gears. that man. ugh.
thank you to @netgalley & @victoryeditingngc for the arc approval💫
July 27, 2026
It Audit Be You by Madylen Valdes is everything a romcom should be! The humor had me laughing so hard that no sound was coming out. The side characters are larger than life, adding so much charm and chaos to the story. And the drama is so frustrating at times that I found myself yelling at the book (in a good way). I absolutely loved Lou and Jacksons story. At its heart, it’s a wonderful reminder of just how important communication is even when it’s scary. Sometimes the most incredible things in life are worth taking that risk. This was an easy five star read for me!
July 30, 2026
Short review, full review to come:
This book is so perfectly unhinged. It was truly laugh out loud funny and constantly had me laughing at how incredibly absurd some of the moments were.
It felt like reading an early 2000s rom com with a little heart break but also loads of love and laughter.
I enjoyed the dual timeline, Lou and Jackson in their past when they were first friends, and then back to the present where they were just
You should absolutely check this out if you haven't yet. This is an absolute masterpiece.
This book is so perfectly unhinged. It was truly laugh out loud funny and constantly had me laughing at how incredibly absurd some of the moments were.
It felt like reading an early 2000s rom com with a little heart break but also loads of love and laughter.
I enjoyed the dual timeline, Lou and Jackson in their past when they were first friends, and then back to the present where they were just
You should absolutely check this out if you haven't yet. This is an absolute masterpiece.
May 7, 2026
YOU GUYSSSSS!!! I absolutely devoured this book!!! It wasn't just a "one more chapter" read.. this was the type of book that had me ignoring all responsibilities. Putting it down was NOT an option.
5 stars is honestly not enough, so consider this my first 6 star read of the year
Somehow Madylen made tax law feel magnetic, sexy if you will?? Was not expecting that! Lou and Jackson have the kind of chemistry that ruins you for other couples. Every interaction felt electric, messy, tender, and completely addictive.
The emotional layers in this story hit me so much harder than I expected. Under all the humor and chaos is this deeply heartfelt story about connection, history, timing, and finding your way back to the people who understand you best. The humor was on point, I was laughing my butt off the whole time! All of the characters were so real and relatable, they felt like regular people that I would know and it made it all so much better. I didn't want the story to end. Madylen can we please get a book about Marnie? Pleaseeee diva
" I love her so much!!
This is the kind of book that reminds me why I fell in love with reading in the first place. The kind you immediately want to force into everyone else's hands because keeping it to yourself feels impossible. I already know these characters are going to live in my head rent free for a very long time.
'That freakin' mustache. I don't know what kind of special voodoo it has, but that upper lip jacket is like catnip to me now. I'm feral for it!
"We make choices every day, Lou," he continues. "But the one choice I will never stop making is you."
'Jackson Wyatt is irrevocably, unconditionally my easiest yes!
5 stars is honestly not enough, so consider this my first 6 star read of the year
Somehow Madylen made tax law feel magnetic, sexy if you will?? Was not expecting that! Lou and Jackson have the kind of chemistry that ruins you for other couples. Every interaction felt electric, messy, tender, and completely addictive.
The emotional layers in this story hit me so much harder than I expected. Under all the humor and chaos is this deeply heartfelt story about connection, history, timing, and finding your way back to the people who understand you best. The humor was on point, I was laughing my butt off the whole time! All of the characters were so real and relatable, they felt like regular people that I would know and it made it all so much better. I didn't want the story to end. Madylen can we please get a book about Marnie? Pleaseeee diva
" I love her so much!!
This is the kind of book that reminds me why I fell in love with reading in the first place. The kind you immediately want to force into everyone else's hands because keeping it to yourself feels impossible. I already know these characters are going to live in my head rent free for a very long time.
'That freakin' mustache. I don't know what kind of special voodoo it has, but that upper lip jacket is like catnip to me now. I'm feral for it!
"We make choices every day, Lou," he continues. "But the one choice I will never stop making is you."
'Jackson Wyatt is irrevocably, unconditionally my easiest yes!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
It Audit Be You by Madylen Valdes is everything a rom-com should be. It’s funny, heartfelt, chaotic in the best way, and completely impossible to put down.
First of all... how did Madylen make tax law sexy? As a paralegal, I can confidently say you could not pay me enough to work in tax law, so the fact that Madylen pulled that off deserves an award. I was not expecting that at all.
Lou and Jackson absolutely stole my heart. Their chemistry was undeniable from the start, and every interaction was filled with tension, humor, longing, and so much history. They had me rooting for them the entire time. At its heart, their story is a reminder that communication is everything. Opening yourself up is scary, but sometimes the best things in life are worth taking that leap.
What I loved most was that underneath all the laughs is a story with so much heart. It's about second chances, reconnecting with the people who know you best, and realizing that timing isn't always perfect—but sometimes it's exactly what you need. The emotional moments caught me completely off guard and gave this story so much depth.
The humor, though? Absolutely top-tier. I was laughing out loud the entire book. The side characters were wonderfully over-the-top without ever feeling too much, and they brought so much personality to every scene. Marnie completely ran away with this book for me. She is chaotic, hilarious, and an absolute icon. Madylen... I'm going to need a Marnie book immediately because I'm obsessed.
The drama was exactly the kind I love. There were moments where I was literally yelling at the pages because I needed these characters to get it together already. Simon and Megan had me rolling my eyes every time they showed up, which just proves they were written exactly the way they were supposed to be.
I also loved how real these characters felt. Lou isn't perfect, and that's what made her so relatable. She has a successful career, people who love her, and a life that looks like she should have it all figured out, but she's still searching for something more. I think so many readers will see a little bit of themselves in her. And Jackson? He was impossible not to love.
This was such a fun, light read, but it still packed an emotional punch when it needed to. It made me laugh, made me smile, frustrated me in all the right ways, and left me wishing I could spend just a little more time with these characters.
This is the kind of book that reminds me why I fell in love with reading in the first place. The kind you immediately want to shove into everyone else's hands because keeping it to yourself feels impossible.
Now excuse me while I patiently (not patiently at all) wait for Marnie to get her own book.
Thank you so much, Madylen, for trusting me with an ARC of It Audit Be You! 💕 It was an absolute joy to read.
First of all... how did Madylen make tax law sexy? As a paralegal, I can confidently say you could not pay me enough to work in tax law, so the fact that Madylen pulled that off deserves an award. I was not expecting that at all.
Lou and Jackson absolutely stole my heart. Their chemistry was undeniable from the start, and every interaction was filled with tension, humor, longing, and so much history. They had me rooting for them the entire time. At its heart, their story is a reminder that communication is everything. Opening yourself up is scary, but sometimes the best things in life are worth taking that leap.
What I loved most was that underneath all the laughs is a story with so much heart. It's about second chances, reconnecting with the people who know you best, and realizing that timing isn't always perfect—but sometimes it's exactly what you need. The emotional moments caught me completely off guard and gave this story so much depth.
The humor, though? Absolutely top-tier. I was laughing out loud the entire book. The side characters were wonderfully over-the-top without ever feeling too much, and they brought so much personality to every scene. Marnie completely ran away with this book for me. She is chaotic, hilarious, and an absolute icon. Madylen... I'm going to need a Marnie book immediately because I'm obsessed.
The drama was exactly the kind I love. There were moments where I was literally yelling at the pages because I needed these characters to get it together already. Simon and Megan had me rolling my eyes every time they showed up, which just proves they were written exactly the way they were supposed to be.
I also loved how real these characters felt. Lou isn't perfect, and that's what made her so relatable. She has a successful career, people who love her, and a life that looks like she should have it all figured out, but she's still searching for something more. I think so many readers will see a little bit of themselves in her. And Jackson? He was impossible not to love.
This was such a fun, light read, but it still packed an emotional punch when it needed to. It made me laugh, made me smile, frustrated me in all the right ways, and left me wishing I could spend just a little more time with these characters.
This is the kind of book that reminds me why I fell in love with reading in the first place. The kind you immediately want to shove into everyone else's hands because keeping it to yourself feels impossible.
Now excuse me while I patiently (not patiently at all) wait for Marnie to get her own book.
Thank you so much, Madylen, for trusting me with an ARC of It Audit Be You! 💕 It was an absolute joy to read.
June 3, 2026
💕Thank you, Madylen Valdes team for the ARC of this absolute gem. It was a joy!💕
⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (3.5)
If you’re looking for a cute, fun, palate cleanser type romcom, pick this up! It’s a second-chance romance with a swoony hot-shot lawyer and a slightly junior lawyer who is a bit of an adorable mess. I kept picturing Henry Cavill with a mustache and Anna Kendrick, for some reason.
After her life and her relationship implode, Louisa leaves her little hometown in Alaska and relocates to DC to work in a powerful firm that has taken a chance on her, only to run into her college best friend…whom she hasn’t spoken to since a bitter parting. And of course he’s still devastating attractive.😩
The pace of this book is suuuper fast, as it is under 300 pages. So you’re going to have to go along with a lot of plot leaps that perhaps create some implausibility and “randomness.” But there are so many moments that felt incredibly authentic and relatable, in terms of personhood, that I can overlook that. Because oh my god was this funny.😆
The drama with Brad and the frisbee was SO hilarious and Nipplenhair-gate had me wheeze laughing. There are also a couple side characters that I just fell in love with! Marnie and Russell especially. 💕 And there is a seriously punchable villain or two that create a couple OH NO HE/SHE DITTEN moments. But the conflicts are pretty low stakes, or at least resolve quickly, so this is very unstressful and enjoyable to binge! I would have liked more of Louisa and her mom back in Kodiak. She seemed like an interesting lady!
The romance is spice-free and closed/door. So if detailed sex scenes are your thing, this is more Katherine Center level—a good buildup to the moment, but fade-to-black.
This is pure fun, light fiction. It’s not a realistic study in what tax law practice or life looks like in DC. Keep that in mind and enjoy the fun!
**The ending did feature a trope that is absolutely not my jam. So that disappointed me a bit. But I was glad for a happily ever after! But not for Simon. Screw Simon.
⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (3.5)
If you’re looking for a cute, fun, palate cleanser type romcom, pick this up! It’s a second-chance romance with a swoony hot-shot lawyer and a slightly junior lawyer who is a bit of an adorable mess. I kept picturing Henry Cavill with a mustache and Anna Kendrick, for some reason.
After her life and her relationship implode, Louisa leaves her little hometown in Alaska and relocates to DC to work in a powerful firm that has taken a chance on her, only to run into her college best friend…whom she hasn’t spoken to since a bitter parting. And of course he’s still devastating attractive.😩
The pace of this book is suuuper fast, as it is under 300 pages. So you’re going to have to go along with a lot of plot leaps that perhaps create some implausibility and “randomness.” But there are so many moments that felt incredibly authentic and relatable, in terms of personhood, that I can overlook that. Because oh my god was this funny.😆
The drama with Brad and the frisbee was SO hilarious and Nipplenhair-gate had me wheeze laughing. There are also a couple side characters that I just fell in love with! Marnie and Russell especially. 💕 And there is a seriously punchable villain or two that create a couple OH NO HE/SHE DITTEN moments. But the conflicts are pretty low stakes, or at least resolve quickly, so this is very unstressful and enjoyable to binge! I would have liked more of Louisa and her mom back in Kodiak. She seemed like an interesting lady!
The romance is spice-free and closed/door. So if detailed sex scenes are your thing, this is more Katherine Center level—a good buildup to the moment, but fade-to-black.
This is pure fun, light fiction. It’s not a realistic study in what tax law practice or life looks like in DC. Keep that in mind and enjoy the fun!
**The ending did feature a trope that is absolutely not my jam. So that disappointed me a bit. But I was glad for a happily ever after! But not for Simon. Screw Simon.
June 21, 2026
Summary:
Louisa, a twenty-eight-year-old divorce lawyer, is ready to make changes in her life. Unhappy with her job, she makes the impulsive decision to quit working at a small law office in Kodiak, Alaska. Not only is she suddenly unemployed, but she’s also newly single after walking in on her long-term boyfriend with another woman. Determined to find out if there’s more to life beyond Kodiak, she accepts a position as a tax lawyer in Washington, D.C., eager for a fresh start. What Louisa never anticipates is running into Jackson, her college best friend, while beginning this new chapter. As old memories and buried emotions come rushing back, she must navigate working alongside the man who broke her heart far worse than her cheating ex ever did.
Thoughts:
-this is such an amazing sweet and emotional second chance love story. I ate these pages up within 2 hours.
-this is a quick read but within the pages you will find so much laughter, love, and heart stoping moments.
-The chemistry for Louisa and Jackson is off the charts. I was so in love with these two instantly.
-I enjoyed Marnie so much. She is the best roommate, hype woman ever and I love how she just opened her arms to Louisa.
-I never realized how attractive a man with a mustache can be until reading this book.
-there are some hilarious laugh out loud moments yet these moments are so sweet and tender.
-chapter 35 is simply the best. I felt so many emotions within these pages. I thought this and then was hit with chapter 39.
Thank you so much Madylen Valdes for an arc read of It Audit Be You. This is such a prefect second chance romance story.
Louisa, a twenty-eight-year-old divorce lawyer, is ready to make changes in her life. Unhappy with her job, she makes the impulsive decision to quit working at a small law office in Kodiak, Alaska. Not only is she suddenly unemployed, but she’s also newly single after walking in on her long-term boyfriend with another woman. Determined to find out if there’s more to life beyond Kodiak, she accepts a position as a tax lawyer in Washington, D.C., eager for a fresh start. What Louisa never anticipates is running into Jackson, her college best friend, while beginning this new chapter. As old memories and buried emotions come rushing back, she must navigate working alongside the man who broke her heart far worse than her cheating ex ever did.
Thoughts:
-this is such an amazing sweet and emotional second chance love story. I ate these pages up within 2 hours.
-this is a quick read but within the pages you will find so much laughter, love, and heart stoping moments.
-The chemistry for Louisa and Jackson is off the charts. I was so in love with these two instantly.
-I enjoyed Marnie so much. She is the best roommate, hype woman ever and I love how she just opened her arms to Louisa.
-I never realized how attractive a man with a mustache can be until reading this book.
-there are some hilarious laugh out loud moments yet these moments are so sweet and tender.
-chapter 35 is simply the best. I felt so many emotions within these pages. I thought this and then was hit with chapter 39.
Thank you so much Madylen Valdes for an arc read of It Audit Be You. This is such a prefect second chance romance story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Louisa hated her job, her cheating boyfriend and couldn’t wait to get out of Kodiak. So when she had the chance to start a new life, new career in D.C. she took it. She moved in an apartment with her new bestie Marnie and Russell who slept on their steps outside. With hardly any money Louisa only had an air mattress and nothing else. She had to do good on this new job ,help her mom pay off a loan and prove her ex boyfriend wrong. On her first day of work she was touring the place she ended up locking eyes with someone from her past. Someone she thought she would never see again Jackson Wyatt. Jackson who used to be her best friend , helped her study for the BAR and hurt her really bad, coming toward her smirking. He was glad to see her. Louisa not as much but she did have a lot to say about his mustache. After a few choice words they when on about their day. One day at work a colleague who was helping her do a project at work invited her to play frisbee. So she agreed and guess who shows up Jackson and turns everything into a blood bath and a trip to the hospital. Then turned into people wrestling a mattress. Then turns into a bet. That turns into a friendship and maybe even more. Will their relationship survive the job, the jealousy and second puberty. If you want to read a book that is heart felt, funny, complicated, and you will absolutely fall in love with the characters this is for you!!!
July 30, 2026
What to expect:
Second chance romance
Workplace romance
Tax lawyers
Slow burn
Found family
Banter + pining
Closed door romance
Louisa and Jackson - these two have quite the history. They went to college together and studied together. She had a crush on Jackson but he would always be with different girls and it would make her feel a type of way.during this time, Louisa meets someone who she feels like they mutually like each other and they go on dates and be in a relationship for a few years. (I hate Simon so much) 😂
After their breakup, she starts at a new company doing something that she doesn’t have experience with, but she’s there to learn and get away from her past. Little does she know, that Jackson works there too!
Jackson has the player type vibe, so I wasn’t sure how they would end up together, however he is definitely reformed and is so into Louisa and being there for her!
The way that Louisa would self sabotage by running away literally made me so sad because I’m like girl he really wants you, go get your man!! 😭 So I’m glad that the story ended up the way it did. This story had the banter and pining and I absolutely loved that! Also definitely enjoyed Marnie and Herb!
Quote:
Our love is not something you can pin down, organize into neat little boxes, and file away. It takes detours. It’s messy. And it’s most definitely complicated. But at the end of the day, our love is undeniably, inextricably ours.
Thank you to Madylen for the opportunity to arc read this story!!
Second chance romance
Workplace romance
Tax lawyers
Slow burn
Found family
Banter + pining
Closed door romance
Louisa and Jackson - these two have quite the history. They went to college together and studied together. She had a crush on Jackson but he would always be with different girls and it would make her feel a type of way.during this time, Louisa meets someone who she feels like they mutually like each other and they go on dates and be in a relationship for a few years. (I hate Simon so much) 😂
After their breakup, she starts at a new company doing something that she doesn’t have experience with, but she’s there to learn and get away from her past. Little does she know, that Jackson works there too!
Jackson has the player type vibe, so I wasn’t sure how they would end up together, however he is definitely reformed and is so into Louisa and being there for her!
The way that Louisa would self sabotage by running away literally made me so sad because I’m like girl he really wants you, go get your man!! 😭 So I’m glad that the story ended up the way it did. This story had the banter and pining and I absolutely loved that! Also definitely enjoyed Marnie and Herb!
Quote:
Our love is not something you can pin down, organize into neat little boxes, and file away. It takes detours. It’s messy. And it’s most definitely complicated. But at the end of the day, our love is undeniably, inextricably ours.
Thank you to Madylen for the opportunity to arc read this story!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
**⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4 Stars**
*Received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.*
The laughs were abundant in this second-chance rom-com! At under 300 pages, this is a quick read. At times the pacing felt a little fast, with months passing in the blink of an eye, but I absolutely flew through the back half of the book.
Louisa is starting over as a lawyer in Washington, DC, after fleeing to Alaska. The problem? Her former best friend/complicated situationship, Jackson, works at her new firm. Cue the awkwardness, tension, and plenty of hilarious moments. The story also weaves in a dual timeline, allowing readers to follow Louisa and Jackson's messy history and see how they ended up where they are today.
The side characters were absolute gems. Special shoutout to Marnie and Russell! I cackled through many of Marnie's scenes, and the supporting cast added so much charm and humor to the story.
There were definitely a few villains along the way, and while some of their downfalls felt a little convenient or didn’t happen (nepo baby), the story remained grounded enough that it worked for me. The emotional beats felt genuine, and I found myself rooting for Louisa and Jackson the whole way through.
I'll definitely be keeping an eye out for what Madylen writes next—she's an author to watch! 💕
**⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4 Stars**
*Received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.*
The laughs were abundant in this second-chance rom-com! At under 300 pages, this is a quick read. At times the pacing felt a little fast, with months passing in the blink of an eye, but I absolutely flew through the back half of the book.
Louisa is starting over as a lawyer in Washington, DC, after fleeing to Alaska. The problem? Her former best friend/complicated situationship, Jackson, works at her new firm. Cue the awkwardness, tension, and plenty of hilarious moments. The story also weaves in a dual timeline, allowing readers to follow Louisa and Jackson's messy history and see how they ended up where they are today.
The side characters were absolute gems. Special shoutout to Marnie and Russell! I cackled through many of Marnie's scenes, and the supporting cast added so much charm and humor to the story.
There were definitely a few villains along the way, and while some of their downfalls felt a little convenient or didn’t happen (nepo baby), the story remained grounded enough that it worked for me. The emotional beats felt genuine, and I found myself rooting for Louisa and Jackson the whole way through.
I'll definitely be keeping an eye out for what Madylen writes next—she's an author to watch! 💕
**⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4 Stars**
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I read It Audit Be You by author Madylen Valdes.
Louisa is a lawyer with an unexpected need for a fresh start on many life levels. Jackson is lawyer on the fast track to success in tax law. Louisa and Jackson have history mixed with betrayal, pain, words unsaid. And no contact for several years. When Louisa’s fresh start includes a surprise of Jackson being a coworker she is speechless! Can former best friends manage to navigate in an office together? And possibly more?
Ok. I loved this book! I loved each and every thing about it. I stopped to tell my husband, after only 2 pages, when I was laughing out loud to myself, that I would love it. Seeing young Louisa thinking about Oreos and trying to process all the feelings of walking towards who we think we are supposed to become flooded me with identification.
I became so attached to the characters. Louisa, Jackson, Marnie the colorful friend, Russell the stoop neighbor, Louisa’s sweet mom, Herb the goodest boy. All so precious and well written. I could picture them all.
This book is funny, heartwarming, has so many feels, “will they won’t they”suspense and surprises. A couple villains. And now all I can think of is getting Won Ton soup today. Such a true pleasure read.
Definitely recommend!
I received an advanced copy read from the author. This is my voluntary and honest review.
Louisa is a lawyer with an unexpected need for a fresh start on many life levels. Jackson is lawyer on the fast track to success in tax law. Louisa and Jackson have history mixed with betrayal, pain, words unsaid. And no contact for several years. When Louisa’s fresh start includes a surprise of Jackson being a coworker she is speechless! Can former best friends manage to navigate in an office together? And possibly more?
Ok. I loved this book! I loved each and every thing about it. I stopped to tell my husband, after only 2 pages, when I was laughing out loud to myself, that I would love it. Seeing young Louisa thinking about Oreos and trying to process all the feelings of walking towards who we think we are supposed to become flooded me with identification.
I became so attached to the characters. Louisa, Jackson, Marnie the colorful friend, Russell the stoop neighbor, Louisa’s sweet mom, Herb the goodest boy. All so precious and well written. I could picture them all.
This book is funny, heartwarming, has so many feels, “will they won’t they”suspense and surprises. A couple villains. And now all I can think of is getting Won Ton soup today. Such a true pleasure read.
Definitely recommend!
I received an advanced copy read from the author. This is my voluntary and honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
It Audit be you by madylen valdes is a witty, humourous book with an extraordinary writing style. The whole story is from female lead, Louisa's POV. Her character was outstanding, she was sassy , brave and relatable. There were dual timelines in the story which made it more interesting. The narrative style was medium paced and I enjoyed the flow of the story.
Louisa and Jackson stole my heart, their transition from friends to lovers was amazing. Their chemistry and banter were highlights of this book. The relationship growth between them was commendable. Louisa is one of my favorite female leads so far. Her dialogues, the sarcasm everything was top notch. Her career growth and how she tackled various circumstances in life was great to read.Jackson truly supported her unconditionally throughout the story.
Marnie was my favorite side character I enjoyed her presence a lot in the book. Herb, the dog was adorable. The relationship between Louisa and her mother was heartwarming. This book made me laugh and at times emotional also. I just want to say one thing for the character of Simon🙄, that man was seriously something else.
Overall I enjoyed this story a lot and I would highly recommend it because I was just hooked from the first page and It just got more and more interesting.
Louisa and Jackson stole my heart, their transition from friends to lovers was amazing. Their chemistry and banter were highlights of this book. The relationship growth between them was commendable. Louisa is one of my favorite female leads so far. Her dialogues, the sarcasm everything was top notch. Her career growth and how she tackled various circumstances in life was great to read.Jackson truly supported her unconditionally throughout the story.
Marnie was my favorite side character I enjoyed her presence a lot in the book. Herb, the dog was adorable. The relationship between Louisa and her mother was heartwarming. This book made me laugh and at times emotional also. I just want to say one thing for the character of Simon🙄, that man was seriously something else.
Overall I enjoyed this story a lot and I would highly recommend it because I was just hooked from the first page and It just got more and more interesting.
Review of advance copy received from Autorin bzw. Autor
Thank you Madylen Valdes for an advanced readers copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The plot of "It Audit Be You" paired with it being set in DC and therefore close by immediately drew me in.
What then kept me hooked was how hilarious and captivating it was. The writing felt light and aithentic even when it came to difficult topics and emotions. The back and forth between Jackson and Louisas' past and present helped with a deeper understanding of their relationship and Louisas' mixed feelings towards him. Even I had mixed feelings towards some of his behavior in the past even if I understood it.
“He’s going to break your heart,” he murmurs. This isn’t how this is supposed to go. “Not possible,” I reply. “You already broke it.”
The banter between present them was great and their chemistry on fire though and I couldn't see the story ending any other way than it did - with me feeling all giddy and giggly.
“I’ve loved you since before either of us knew what to call it. My love for you is not temporary.”
I absolutely adored all the side characters (even sleezy ex Simon) and how the story unfolded with all these little clumsy romcom moments.
"But that’s just it. Simon is not a man. He’s a disloyal, messy, Winnie- the- Pooh clown boy."
The plot of "It Audit Be You" paired with it being set in DC and therefore close by immediately drew me in.
What then kept me hooked was how hilarious and captivating it was. The writing felt light and aithentic even when it came to difficult topics and emotions. The back and forth between Jackson and Louisas' past and present helped with a deeper understanding of their relationship and Louisas' mixed feelings towards him. Even I had mixed feelings towards some of his behavior in the past even if I understood it.
“He’s going to break your heart,” he murmurs. This isn’t how this is supposed to go. “Not possible,” I reply. “You already broke it.”
The banter between present them was great and their chemistry on fire though and I couldn't see the story ending any other way than it did - with me feeling all giddy and giggly.
“I’ve loved you since before either of us knew what to call it. My love for you is not temporary.”
I absolutely adored all the side characters (even sleezy ex Simon) and how the story unfolded with all these little clumsy romcom moments.
"But that’s just it. Simon is not a man. He’s a disloyal, messy, Winnie- the- Pooh clown boy."
Review of advance copy received from Author
It Audit Be You ended up being one of those books that felt way more relatable than I expected. I went in thinking it would just be a fun workplace romcom, but it had a lot of heart underneath all the humor and chaos.
What really stood out to me was how human Louisa felt. She’s flawed, awkward, impulsive, emotional, and constantly trying to hold herself together while life keeps throwing things at her. I loved that she wasn’t written as someone who had everything figured out. Watching her navigate heartbreak, career pressure, self-doubt, and starting over made her journey feel realistic and easy to connect with.
The humor was probably one of my favorite parts. Louisa’s inner thoughts and awkward situations made the story genuinely funny, but it never felt like comedy just for the sake of being funny. It balanced well with emotional moments, which made the story feel deeper than a typical romcom.
I also really liked the workplace setting because it gave the book a fresh vibe. It wasn’t just romance it also explored ambition, independence, and learning to trust yourself again after things fall apart. That growth aspect made the story stronger for me.
Thank you Madylen Valdes for the advance readers copy I appreciate 🫶🏻⭐️
What really stood out to me was how human Louisa felt. She’s flawed, awkward, impulsive, emotional, and constantly trying to hold herself together while life keeps throwing things at her. I loved that she wasn’t written as someone who had everything figured out. Watching her navigate heartbreak, career pressure, self-doubt, and starting over made her journey feel realistic and easy to connect with.
The humor was probably one of my favorite parts. Louisa’s inner thoughts and awkward situations made the story genuinely funny, but it never felt like comedy just for the sake of being funny. It balanced well with emotional moments, which made the story feel deeper than a typical romcom.
I also really liked the workplace setting because it gave the book a fresh vibe. It wasn’t just romance it also explored ambition, independence, and learning to trust yourself again after things fall apart. That growth aspect made the story stronger for me.
Thank you Madylen Valdes for the advance readers copy I appreciate 🫶🏻⭐️
Review of advance copy received from Author
An Absolute Masterpiece of Slow Burn and Banter!
I think I just discovered a new book boyfriend, because Jackson Wyatt is THE MAN 🛐
If you are a huge sucker for a slow burn and toptier banter (like me), look no further cause this book hits all the right places💕The tension and the back and forth between the FMC and MMC are absolutely on point. I lost count of how many times I found myself giggling, kicking my feet and physically unable to stop turning the pages (cause its THAT good)
It has has a lot of hilarious and funny moments which I absolutely love in a cute romance book <3
The author’s writing is simple yet incredibly engaging. It flows so naturally and hooks you from the very first chapter✨️
Our FMC’s mom is super sweet🫠💕I absolutely ADORED her character. And can we talk about having a best friend like Marnie? What a dream! She is beautifully chaotic and I love her so much🤌🏻💕
Tbh, I was a bit mad at the fmc for some of her poor choices at times, but I still loved her character💕 She felt real and flawed....
Overall, this was an unputdownable, chaotic, sweet, and sizzling read. If you love a romance that makes you blush, laugh, and instantly want to reread it the second you finish...add this to your TBR immediately !!
I think I just discovered a new book boyfriend, because Jackson Wyatt is THE MAN 🛐
If you are a huge sucker for a slow burn and toptier banter (like me), look no further cause this book hits all the right places💕The tension and the back and forth between the FMC and MMC are absolutely on point. I lost count of how many times I found myself giggling, kicking my feet and physically unable to stop turning the pages (cause its THAT good)
It has has a lot of hilarious and funny moments which I absolutely love in a cute romance book <3
The author’s writing is simple yet incredibly engaging. It flows so naturally and hooks you from the very first chapter✨️
Our FMC’s mom is super sweet🫠💕I absolutely ADORED her character. And can we talk about having a best friend like Marnie? What a dream! She is beautifully chaotic and I love her so much🤌🏻💕
Tbh, I was a bit mad at the fmc for some of her poor choices at times, but I still loved her character💕 She felt real and flawed....
Overall, this was an unputdownable, chaotic, sweet, and sizzling read. If you love a romance that makes you blush, laugh, and instantly want to reread it the second you finish...add this to your TBR immediately !!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Are you in the market for an exceptional rom com? It Audit Be You by Madylen Valdes is what you need in your life.
I loved this story. I laughed so hard I cried, and then I found myself crying from the tenderness of love within the next pages of Lou and Jackson's story.
I highlighted and bookmarked multiple sections of this novel. Normally, I read mostly dark, emotional, and heavy themes, but this story was just what I needed for the weekend.
I would love to tell you about all my favorite quotes and bookmarked scenes. But then, I would give everything away, and then my review would no longer be spoiler free.
At one point, Lou asks Jackson to tell her a story and OMG, I was sobbing at the end of his story he tells her. Love really is not a strong enough word for how I feel about Lou and Jackson's story.
One of the themes Lou and Jackson must face in their relationship is trust. I'm asking you to trust me here. If you love second chances, laughing until you cry, and a HEA that will blow you away, then add, It Audit Be You to your TBR.
I received an ARC of It Audit Be You. All opinions are my own.
This will be one I revisit on a re-read, especially when I need to laugh and love.
I loved this story. I laughed so hard I cried, and then I found myself crying from the tenderness of love within the next pages of Lou and Jackson's story.
I highlighted and bookmarked multiple sections of this novel. Normally, I read mostly dark, emotional, and heavy themes, but this story was just what I needed for the weekend.
I would love to tell you about all my favorite quotes and bookmarked scenes. But then, I would give everything away, and then my review would no longer be spoiler free.
At one point, Lou asks Jackson to tell her a story and OMG, I was sobbing at the end of his story he tells her. Love really is not a strong enough word for how I feel about Lou and Jackson's story.
One of the themes Lou and Jackson must face in their relationship is trust. I'm asking you to trust me here. If you love second chances, laughing until you cry, and a HEA that will blow you away, then add, It Audit Be You to your TBR.
I received an ARC of It Audit Be You. All opinions are my own.
This will be one I revisit on a re-read, especially when I need to laugh and love.
May 28, 2026
Thank you to the sweet author for the eARC!
3.5 stars!
I loved so many parts of this book, the hilarious moments throughout, the quirky side characters, and of course the HEA! The main female character is a chaotic, which I loved because it was more realistic to read a hot mess character than someone who has her life all together! The coworker that cried over his pet fish, the homeless man at the steps, and the crazy roommate were such comedic relief that I enjoyed so much!
Personally, I don’t like the third act breakup/miscommunication tropes, so if those don’t bother you then I think this will be a fun read! I did feel like it started as a rom com and then gradually became serious, and the male main character was just annoying until the end and I wish we had more of his personality shine through. The work place drama toward the end had me wanting to throw punches at our FMC! It reads more like friends-enemies-lovers than a workplace romance, they just happen to work at the same place.
Overall I’d recommend this if you’re looking for a NO SPICE rom com with quirky characters and you want a lighthearted read!
3.5 stars!
I loved so many parts of this book, the hilarious moments throughout, the quirky side characters, and of course the HEA! The main female character is a chaotic, which I loved because it was more realistic to read a hot mess character than someone who has her life all together! The coworker that cried over his pet fish, the homeless man at the steps, and the crazy roommate were such comedic relief that I enjoyed so much!
Personally, I don’t like the third act breakup/miscommunication tropes, so if those don’t bother you then I think this will be a fun read! I did feel like it started as a rom com and then gradually became serious, and the male main character was just annoying until the end and I wish we had more of his personality shine through. The work place drama toward the end had me wanting to throw punches at our FMC! It reads more like friends-enemies-lovers than a workplace romance, they just happen to work at the same place.
Overall I’d recommend this if you’re looking for a NO SPICE rom com with quirky characters and you want a lighthearted read!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you Madylen Valdes and her team for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book as an ARC!!
I would say that this is a really cute, fun rom-com to pick up. It has second-chance, right person wrong time vibes. Very quick read, but is very fast paced, so be warned.
Lou (FMC) moves to DC after her life implodes in Alaska and starts at this powerful law firm, in tax law. This law firm is taking a chance on her, yet the first thing that happens is her running into her old college best friend, Jackson (which she hasn’t spoken to in years due to a very drama induced parting). You also will fall in love with some side characters cough cough Marnie and Russell.
This is a dual-timeline book to get an eye into the drama that went down previously between Lou and Jackson. The romance is very closed door and spice-free.
The cutest, most favorite line from this dang book: “I’ve loved you since before either of us knew what to call it. My love for you is not temporary.” “I’ve loved you since before either of us knew what to call it. My love for you is not temporary.”
I would say that this is a really cute, fun rom-com to pick up. It has second-chance, right person wrong time vibes. Very quick read, but is very fast paced, so be warned.
Lou (FMC) moves to DC after her life implodes in Alaska and starts at this powerful law firm, in tax law. This law firm is taking a chance on her, yet the first thing that happens is her running into her old college best friend, Jackson (which she hasn’t spoken to in years due to a very drama induced parting). You also will fall in love with some side characters cough cough Marnie and Russell.
This is a dual-timeline book to get an eye into the drama that went down previously between Lou and Jackson. The romance is very closed door and spice-free.
The cutest, most favorite line from this dang book: “I’ve loved you since before either of us knew what to call it. My love for you is not temporary.” “I’ve loved you since before either of us knew what to call it. My love for you is not temporary.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I had a really fun time with this one.
This is one of those books that feels like you’re watching a rom-com. It’s light, funny, and just a comfortable read. I found myself laughing more than I expected, and the humor was definitely one of my favorite parts of the book. Marnie especially stole every scene she was in.
Lou and Jackson were easy to root for. I liked getting both the present-day story and the flashbacks because it helped me understand why there was still so much between them after everything that happened. Their banter and chemistry kept me invested, and I kept wanting them to just figure it out already.
That said, there were definitely moments where I had to suspend my disbelief a little. Early on, things felt almost too perfect between the characters, and there were a few coincidences that had me thinking, “Okay… we’re just rolling with this.” There were moments where it felt a little too idealized for me.
If you’re in the mood for a quick, feel-good, closed-door workplace romance with second chances, plenty of laughs, and characters you’ll genuinely want to see end up together, I think you’ll have a good time with this one.
This is one of those books that feels like you’re watching a rom-com. It’s light, funny, and just a comfortable read. I found myself laughing more than I expected, and the humor was definitely one of my favorite parts of the book. Marnie especially stole every scene she was in.
Lou and Jackson were easy to root for. I liked getting both the present-day story and the flashbacks because it helped me understand why there was still so much between them after everything that happened. Their banter and chemistry kept me invested, and I kept wanting them to just figure it out already.
That said, there were definitely moments where I had to suspend my disbelief a little. Early on, things felt almost too perfect between the characters, and there were a few coincidences that had me thinking, “Okay… we’re just rolling with this.” There were moments where it felt a little too idealized for me.
If you’re in the mood for a quick, feel-good, closed-door workplace romance with second chances, plenty of laughs, and characters you’ll genuinely want to see end up together, I think you’ll have a good time with this one.
July 30, 2026
Thank you author Madylen Valdes for providing an ARC for review consideration via NetGalley! All opinions are my own.
It Audit Be You is a quick, witty romantic comedy that serves as the perfect beach read or weekend escape!
Fresh off a breakup, Louisa packs up for a new tax law job in D.C. where fate would have it her ex-best friend from law school, Jackson, also happens to work. As Louisa navigates the steep learning curve of her new career, she is forced to confront the unresolved feelings reigniting between them.
The author has a knack for crafting flawed, goofy, and totally relatable characters. Louisa is instantly endearing, and her chemistry with Jackson feels completely authentic. Flipping between past and present worked really well to share their history.
While this sweet, immersive story is a perfect match for anyone navigating early-career stress and romance, it is just as delightful for readers looking back fondly on that chaotic chapter of life.
Read more of my book reviews here...
https://fortandfield.blogspot.com/202...
It Audit Be You is a quick, witty romantic comedy that serves as the perfect beach read or weekend escape!
Fresh off a breakup, Louisa packs up for a new tax law job in D.C. where fate would have it her ex-best friend from law school, Jackson, also happens to work. As Louisa navigates the steep learning curve of her new career, she is forced to confront the unresolved feelings reigniting between them.
The author has a knack for crafting flawed, goofy, and totally relatable characters. Louisa is instantly endearing, and her chemistry with Jackson feels completely authentic. Flipping between past and present worked really well to share their history.
While this sweet, immersive story is a perfect match for anyone navigating early-career stress and romance, it is just as delightful for readers looking back fondly on that chaotic chapter of life.
Read more of my book reviews here...
https://fortandfield.blogspot.com/202...
Review of advance copy received from Author
Book review ( as an ARC reader) 📚
Rating: 5/5 stars 🌟
Review: Guys, I don't know what Madylen puts in her books, but I'm addicted. Her writing style is so easy to read and eye-catching that it makes it hard to put a book down.
"It Audit Be You" (the name itself is so cute) was so funny! Think any rom-com movie in the early 2000's and put those vibes into book form. It specifically gave me 13 Going on 30 vibes and for a newer book/movie, People We Meet On Vacation.
Louisa was so relatable and hilarious. I loved hearing her inner monologue and reading her quirky actions. The nickname Kangaroo Jack was so fitting for her.
Jackson, sweet sweet Jackson, he was so clueless at times but so so sweet and PATIENT. This man had so much patience for Lou.
The plot was smooth and captivating with each page. I was iffy on the comedy part at first due to, in the past finding it hard for books to make me LOL but this book did not disappoint! This story also reminded me of my own "Jackson" that I drifted from 🫂
Rating: 5/5 stars 🌟
Review: Guys, I don't know what Madylen puts in her books, but I'm addicted. Her writing style is so easy to read and eye-catching that it makes it hard to put a book down.
"It Audit Be You" (the name itself is so cute) was so funny! Think any rom-com movie in the early 2000's and put those vibes into book form. It specifically gave me 13 Going on 30 vibes and for a newer book/movie, People We Meet On Vacation.
Louisa was so relatable and hilarious. I loved hearing her inner monologue and reading her quirky actions. The nickname Kangaroo Jack was so fitting for her.
Jackson, sweet sweet Jackson, he was so clueless at times but so so sweet and PATIENT. This man had so much patience for Lou.
The plot was smooth and captivating with each page. I was iffy on the comedy part at first due to, in the past finding it hard for books to make me LOL but this book did not disappoint! This story also reminded me of my own "Jackson" that I drifted from 🫂
July 22, 2026
3.5 rounded up. This was a cute, quick read. It started off with some classic rom-com humor. I really liked how our main character, Louisa, handled upending her life to move to DC, but as I saw flashbacks of what really happened with her ex-best friend, Jackson, I started to like Louisa less and less. Mainly, she is very unregulated emotionally and impulsive. It seemed that Jackson had made mistakes in the past but had grown a lot during their time apart, while Louisa was regressing. She said she had trouble trusting but also immediately believed what the worst people told her. There is constant miscommunication because of her assumptions and emotional immaturity. This probably wasn't the best thing to read right after being blindsided by my long-term partner because I think Jackson should have run for the hills. But Marnie made up for the couple's shenanigans. She is such a quirky and wise character. I would read a book about her any day. Although I didn't love the main couple. I enjoyed Madylen's writing style and humor. I would definitely read another of her books.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 31, 2026
I was so honored to have Madylen Valdes reach out to me to preview her newest book It Audit be You. I don't normally seek out romance books, however I do still have a soft spot for them and am always willing to try! I'm so glad I got to read this one. This story is so sweet and I loved it.
Louisa and Jackson went to law school together and became best friends. While handsome and charming, Louisa watches his revolving door of women and knows that it's not worth letting her heart go there. At the end of law school they have a falling out that their friendship couldn't survive. Fast forward to Louisa needing a do over and moving to DC. Well, guess who her new coworker is? They easily fall back into their old friendship but Louisa knows she has to keep her guard up, even if Jackson is trying his best to break it down.
It's funny, charming and the found family relationships are heartwarming. I actually do love when I give other genres that I don’t normally read a try because 9 times of out 10 I’m very pleasantly surprised and find a new author to love!
Louisa and Jackson went to law school together and became best friends. While handsome and charming, Louisa watches his revolving door of women and knows that it's not worth letting her heart go there. At the end of law school they have a falling out that their friendship couldn't survive. Fast forward to Louisa needing a do over and moving to DC. Well, guess who her new coworker is? They easily fall back into their old friendship but Louisa knows she has to keep her guard up, even if Jackson is trying his best to break it down.
It's funny, charming and the found family relationships are heartwarming. I actually do love when I give other genres that I don’t normally read a try because 9 times of out 10 I’m very pleasantly surprised and find a new author to love!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Blurb
A no-drama tax lawyer lands her perfect fresh start-until she's forced to work with the ex-best friend she buried feelings for, risking both her career and their long-overdue second chance.
My review
Firstly I would like to thank Madylen Valdes for the ARC copy of this book.
No spoilers
This book is full … from banter to wit and heartbreak to love, life long friendships and friendships that are true and supportive!! The pages kept turning!!
The characters are brilliant
Louisa… strong , independent, driven and loyal and she has an amazing support around her
Jackson … career driven, a player
Marnie … she’s a friend every person wants in their life
Would I recommend this book … oh yes!! I’d recommend this to any ROMCOM book lover but also to anyone who loves a second chance romance!! That was what appealed to me.
Would I read it again? Most likely and would definitely get a physical copy !!
A no-drama tax lawyer lands her perfect fresh start-until she's forced to work with the ex-best friend she buried feelings for, risking both her career and their long-overdue second chance.
My review
Firstly I would like to thank Madylen Valdes for the ARC copy of this book.
No spoilers
This book is full … from banter to wit and heartbreak to love, life long friendships and friendships that are true and supportive!! The pages kept turning!!
The characters are brilliant
Louisa… strong , independent, driven and loyal and she has an amazing support around her
Jackson … career driven, a player
Marnie … she’s a friend every person wants in their life
Would I recommend this book … oh yes!! I’d recommend this to any ROMCOM book lover but also to anyone who loves a second chance romance!! That was what appealed to me.
Would I read it again? Most likely and would definitely get a physical copy !!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was such a great read, and I just want to start off by saying I'm so thankful Madylen let me ARC read it! It gave second chance, it gave friends to enemies to lovers, it gave love & laughter and I am here for it all. Also, let's be real we love a solid mustache here.
Louisa is looking for a fresh start and ends up unexpectedly finding her way back to someone from her past. As they work through things in the present, the past comes through as flashbacks to give a more complete story on them before and how they veered away from each other, and to explain the current tension before they give in to fate.
I want to let the surprises of the book surprise you too, so I don't want to give away any of the pieces that made me almost snort coffee out of my nose, but the people she meets when she moves to DC are chefs kiss and everything I would want if moved to a brand new city.
4.5/stars from me even though we can't do half stars on here!! 🧡🩷
Louisa is looking for a fresh start and ends up unexpectedly finding her way back to someone from her past. As they work through things in the present, the past comes through as flashbacks to give a more complete story on them before and how they veered away from each other, and to explain the current tension before they give in to fate.
I want to let the surprises of the book surprise you too, so I don't want to give away any of the pieces that made me almost snort coffee out of my nose, but the people she meets when she moves to DC are chefs kiss and everything I would want if moved to a brand new city.
4.5/stars from me even though we can't do half stars on here!! 🧡🩷
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