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Beauties and Boys #2
Beauty and the Bookworm
My name is Daisy Carmichael, and I’m used to being disappointed.
My four younger siblings need me, my mom depends on me, and somehow I’m always the one holding everything together.
Except when my dream college waitlists me, sealing off my dream of escape, i don’t know how much longer I can keep it together.
Even worse, my ex is back in town. The same ex who dumped me without warning last fall. Now he’s asking for another chance, and despite everything, a big part of me wants to say yes.
Which is where Jamie Brighton comes in.
My quiet, bookish best friend has always been there when I need him. So in a moment of desperation, when I ask him to stop me from making a terrible decision, he agrees.
By kissing me at a party.
In front of everyone.
Now I have a new plan: fake date Jamie, get over my ex, and survive the summer with my heart intact. Except fake dating my best friend is a lot harder than I expected.
Especially when I find out Jamie is really good at pretending…
And I’m not sure I want him to anymore.
Beauty and the Bookworm is a best friends to lovers, fake relationship, sweet YA romance with all the swoon and none of the spice. If you like quiet, bookish boys, bubbly, sunshine-like girls, and swoonworthy slow burns, the second book in the Beauties and Boys duology is for you!
My four younger siblings need me, my mom depends on me, and somehow I’m always the one holding everything together.
Except when my dream college waitlists me, sealing off my dream of escape, i don’t know how much longer I can keep it together.
Even worse, my ex is back in town. The same ex who dumped me without warning last fall. Now he’s asking for another chance, and despite everything, a big part of me wants to say yes.
Which is where Jamie Brighton comes in.
My quiet, bookish best friend has always been there when I need him. So in a moment of desperation, when I ask him to stop me from making a terrible decision, he agrees.
By kissing me at a party.
In front of everyone.
Now I have a new plan: fake date Jamie, get over my ex, and survive the summer with my heart intact. Except fake dating my best friend is a lot harder than I expected.
Especially when I find out Jamie is really good at pretending…
And I’m not sure I want him to anymore.
Beauty and the Bookworm is a best friends to lovers, fake relationship, sweet YA romance with all the swoon and none of the spice. If you like quiet, bookish boys, bubbly, sunshine-like girls, and swoonworthy slow burns, the second book in the Beauties and Boys duology is for you!
First published July 15, 2026
About the author
Sarah Sutton
15 books1,013 followersSarah Sutton writes sweet YA romance full of slow burns, swoony first loves, and happily-ever-afters. When she's not dreaming up fictional crushes, she's watching K-Dramas with a cup of coffee and her Maltipoo, Boemie. She lives in a tiny Michigan town, where she's always working on her next sweet romance.
To follow her on social media and learn more about her books, visit her website: sarah-sutton.com
Facebook: @sarahsuttonbooks
Instagram: @sarahsuttonbooks
TikTok: @AuthorSarahSutton
To follow her on social media and learn more about her books, visit her website: sarah-sutton.com
Facebook: @sarahsuttonbooks
Instagram: @sarahsuttonbooks
TikTok: @AuthorSarahSutton
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
☆6
Sarah what did you even put into this book!?
I LOVED this book so much, how do I even put it into words?
Jamie. OH MY GOSH. He’s so incredible. He saw Daisy like no one else did. He loved her so much, it made my heart ache. And he was the sweetest with her siblings. I love that he always payed attention to Daisy, and he knew all of her favorite things. The moon and planet story (iykyk) was -UGH- the cutest!! Though Jamie is a quiet bookworm, he was such a yearner. It’s was the best thing ever.🥹 And his protectiveness was something else. (So so good!)
Daisy was basically the second mom to her siblings. She took way too much on herself, and those were heavy responsibilities to bear. She was struggling not to let the darkness swallow her whole. But Jamie was there for her. He never stoped encouraging her and cheering her on. He believed in her and that she will get into her dream college. It was the sweetest thing.🥹
As the oldest daughter I could very well relate to Daisy. What she struggled with I still do too, and that made me feel so seen. This book broke me but also healed me at the same time.🥹
I absolutely adore this book, please go read it!
tropes:
📚best friends to lovers
🌼fake dating
📚bookworm x artist
🌼 he has loved her for years
📚best friends brother
🌼 so much yearning
📚he takes care of her
🌼 he falls first
📚single pov
CONTENT:
- kisses only (closed door)
- no language
Sarah what did you even put into this book!?
I LOVED this book so much, how do I even put it into words?
Jamie. OH MY GOSH. He’s so incredible. He saw Daisy like no one else did. He loved her so much, it made my heart ache. And he was the sweetest with her siblings. I love that he always payed attention to Daisy, and he knew all of her favorite things. The moon and planet story (iykyk) was -UGH- the cutest!! Though Jamie is a quiet bookworm, he was such a yearner. It’s was the best thing ever.🥹 And his protectiveness was something else. (So so good!)
Daisy was basically the second mom to her siblings. She took way too much on herself, and those were heavy responsibilities to bear. She was struggling not to let the darkness swallow her whole. But Jamie was there for her. He never stoped encouraging her and cheering her on. He believed in her and that she will get into her dream college. It was the sweetest thing.🥹
As the oldest daughter I could very well relate to Daisy. What she struggled with I still do too, and that made me feel so seen. This book broke me but also healed me at the same time.🥹
I absolutely adore this book, please go read it!
tropes:
📚best friends to lovers
🌼fake dating
📚bookworm x artist
🌼 he has loved her for years
📚best friends brother
🌼 so much yearning
📚he takes care of her
🌼 he falls first
📚single pov
CONTENT:
- kisses only (closed door)
- no language
July 6, 2026
•ARC REVIEW•
- Title: Beauty and the Bookworm - ☆☆☆☆☆
- Format: ebook
- Release Date: July 15th
Content:
- spice: kissing only
- language: 2 h-words. 1 use of Lord’s name in vain
- TW/CW: death of parent. Grief. Gory artwork.
My thoughts:
This is quite possibly one of my new favorite YA books! I loved everything about it. The characters, the story, and the growth.
I related so much to Daisy. Her story healed a small part of me and I shed multiple tears. I was put in almost the exact same situation as Daisy and just seeing her come through that stronger was so encouraging and healing.
I loved Jamie so much. He’s definitely a new favorite MMC. He was awkward and sweet. I love bookish MC’s because it shows that you don’t have be popular, pretty, or athletic to be cool.
I really liked Penn and how much she wanted to help Daisy. I was upset at Daisy’s mom and siblings for most of the book but I’m glad they reconciled at the end.
The end epilogue with Beck and Nellie was so sweet!
I loved both books in this series so much and 100% recommend!
Tropes:
💗best friends to lovers
🌼fake dating
💗he falls first
🌼eldest daughter FMC
💗bookish MMC
🌼he takes care of her
💗no spice YA romance
🌼single pov
Thank you to the author for the ARC copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
- Title: Beauty and the Bookworm - ☆☆☆☆☆
- Format: ebook
- Release Date: July 15th
Content:
- spice: kissing only
- language: 2 h-words. 1 use of Lord’s name in vain
- TW/CW: death of parent. Grief. Gory artwork.
My thoughts:
This is quite possibly one of my new favorite YA books! I loved everything about it. The characters, the story, and the growth.
I related so much to Daisy. Her story healed a small part of me and I shed multiple tears. I was put in almost the exact same situation as Daisy and just seeing her come through that stronger was so encouraging and healing.
I loved Jamie so much. He’s definitely a new favorite MMC. He was awkward and sweet. I love bookish MC’s because it shows that you don’t have be popular, pretty, or athletic to be cool.
I really liked Penn and how much she wanted to help Daisy. I was upset at Daisy’s mom and siblings for most of the book but I’m glad they reconciled at the end.
The end epilogue with Beck and Nellie was so sweet!
I loved both books in this series so much and 100% recommend!
Tropes:
💗best friends to lovers
🌼fake dating
💗he falls first
🌼eldest daughter FMC
💗bookish MMC
🌼he takes care of her
💗no spice YA romance
🌼single pov
Thank you to the author for the ARC copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 13, 2026
Oh. My. Goodness. 🥹 This book completely stole my heart.
Jaime is no longer just a green flag…he’s an entire forest🌲🤍
And HE KEPT THAT PIECE OF PAPER IN HIS POCKET?!?! My heart simply could not handle it. Every little moment between Jaime and Daisy had me smiling, swooning, and completely invested.
Sarah Sutton has officially become an auto-buy author for me. There was something so incredibly sweet and comforting about this story that I never wanted it to end.
This was one of those books that has you smiling long after you’ve turned the last page. Absolute perfection🤍
✨Fake Dating
📚Friends to Lovers
✨YA
📚He Falls First
✨Bookish MMC
📚Never Been Kissed
🌶️: Kisses Only
🤬: 5 uses of h*ll, 1 use of G*d
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
QUOTES
“Daze…you act like I’m not exactly where I want to be”
*You've thought about kissing me these past few weeks," he went on, shuffling his feet apart to bring himself lower, "but I've thought about kissing you for years."
Jaime is no longer just a green flag…he’s an entire forest🌲🤍
And HE KEPT THAT PIECE OF PAPER IN HIS POCKET?!?! My heart simply could not handle it. Every little moment between Jaime and Daisy had me smiling, swooning, and completely invested.
Sarah Sutton has officially become an auto-buy author for me. There was something so incredibly sweet and comforting about this story that I never wanted it to end.
This was one of those books that has you smiling long after you’ve turned the last page. Absolute perfection🤍
✨Fake Dating
📚Friends to Lovers
✨YA
📚He Falls First
✨Bookish MMC
📚Never Been Kissed
🌶️: Kisses Only
🤬: 5 uses of h*ll, 1 use of G*d
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
QUOTES
“Daze…you act like I’m not exactly where I want to be”
*You've thought about kissing me these past few weeks," he went on, shuffling his feet apart to bring himself lower, "but I've thought about kissing you for years."
July 14, 2026
If you loved Beauty and the Bad Boy, you are going to fall head over heels for this one. Honestly, I’m still not sure which book I love more!
Jamie and Daisy were completely adorable. Their chemistry felt so natural from the very beginning, and I couldn’t help but root for them every step of the way. I loved Daisy’s adventurous, outgoing personality paired with Jamie’s quieter, more reserved nature. He’s the ultimate bookish MMC, but I also appreciated that he wasn’t portrayed as weak. He’s thoughtful, dependable, protective, and would do absolutely anything for Daisy-which made me love him even more.
The friendship, the fake dating, the slow realization of their feelings… it was all done so well. Watching everything unfold as a reader was incredibly satisfying, and I found myself smiling through so many chapters.
And can we talk about the kisses? 🥹 They gave me all the butterflies while still keeping everything sweet, wholesome, and completely appropriate. Sarah Sutton has such a gift for writing romance that’s swoony without relying on spice.
This was such a comforting, feel-good read, and I wholeheartedly recommend it if you’re looking for a sweet YA romance with lovable characters, genuine chemistry, and a story that will leave you smiling.
Jamie and Daisy were completely adorable. Their chemistry felt so natural from the very beginning, and I couldn’t help but root for them every step of the way. I loved Daisy’s adventurous, outgoing personality paired with Jamie’s quieter, more reserved nature. He’s the ultimate bookish MMC, but I also appreciated that he wasn’t portrayed as weak. He’s thoughtful, dependable, protective, and would do absolutely anything for Daisy-which made me love him even more.
The friendship, the fake dating, the slow realization of their feelings… it was all done so well. Watching everything unfold as a reader was incredibly satisfying, and I found myself smiling through so many chapters.
And can we talk about the kisses? 🥹 They gave me all the butterflies while still keeping everything sweet, wholesome, and completely appropriate. Sarah Sutton has such a gift for writing romance that’s swoony without relying on spice.
This was such a comforting, feel-good read, and I wholeheartedly recommend it if you’re looking for a sweet YA romance with lovable characters, genuine chemistry, and a story that will leave you smiling.
July 15, 2026
5 stars!!!!
Thank you so much Sarah Sutton for the ARC!
“You always have a marker on your keyring—and I’ll always have the paper.”
AWEEEEEE I LOVED THIS! Not only was this one of the swooniest MMCs that I’ve read from Sarah but I’d say the swooniest overall! Needless to say that James Brighton has replaced Mr. Darcy on the book boyfriend list.
This book was a perfect mix of slow burn with just enough tension to keep you on the edge of your seat wanting more. (Trust me I legit read about 90% of the book in one sitting)
If you like fake dating, best friends brother, and or the slow burn trope then this is the PERFECT book for you. With no spice Sarah always finds a way to make the romance feel real and worth every second of your time. I highly recommend you give this book a try!
Thank you so much Sarah Sutton for the ARC!
“You always have a marker on your keyring—and I’ll always have the paper.”
AWEEEEEE I LOVED THIS! Not only was this one of the swooniest MMCs that I’ve read from Sarah but I’d say the swooniest overall! Needless to say that James Brighton has replaced Mr. Darcy on the book boyfriend list.
This book was a perfect mix of slow burn with just enough tension to keep you on the edge of your seat wanting more. (Trust me I legit read about 90% of the book in one sitting)
If you like fake dating, best friends brother, and or the slow burn trope then this is the PERFECT book for you. With no spice Sarah always finds a way to make the romance feel real and worth every second of your time. I highly recommend you give this book a try!
July 12, 2026
This book was such a great read and even though I didn’t read the first book in the series it didn’t change a thing. I would recommend reading the first book if you want to know more of the characters in depth but if you’re only interested in this one just go read it! I loved how easy of a read this was and how much I got attached to the characters. My heart just broke for Daisy in certain parts and it is so unfair that she had to go through all that she did. All in all I loved this book and highly recommend :)
July 7, 2026
Oh my goodness gracious. I have absolutely found a new author to add to the favorites list.
There was so much raw struggle to Daisy’s life as an eldest sister caring for younger siblings. It was real and it was hard and it was beautiful.
Jaime, Jaime, Jaime. The man that you are. I can’t even start. He’s just perfect.
There was so much raw struggle to Daisy’s life as an eldest sister caring for younger siblings. It was real and it was hard and it was beautiful.
Jaime, Jaime, Jaime. The man that you are. I can’t even start. He’s just perfect.
July 15, 2026
This book had me in a chokehold! It was such a charming fake dating/best friends romance. I absolutely loved my time with Daisy and Jamie, they were so precious together.
I related to Daisy, and felt for her so much. She struggled a lot with guilt, especially as an older sister taking care of all her siblings, she put too much responsibility on herself. But I really loved that she had Jamie and Nellie that were always there for her and supported her. I seriously loved Daisy so much!
Jamie, what an absolute yearner! He was quiet yet steady. His love for Daisy was my favorite thing ever, the things he did for her (IYKYK). I loved how supportive and caring he was not just to Daisy but also her siblings. That he took the time to get to know them. The little things he did for Daisy, so she would feel seen, was so endearing.
I loved Jamie and Daisy together! What started out as best friends fake dating, turned complicated. It was such a good slow burn, with real struggles and issues, but they learned from that. Also, I love a passionate confession scene and they delivered. I am just obsessed with them and love them so much!
Thank you to the author Sarah for the gifted ARC!! All opinions expressed are my own!
🔥 Heat level: Kisses only
🫢 Language: None
I related to Daisy, and felt for her so much. She struggled a lot with guilt, especially as an older sister taking care of all her siblings, she put too much responsibility on herself. But I really loved that she had Jamie and Nellie that were always there for her and supported her. I seriously loved Daisy so much!
Jamie, what an absolute yearner! He was quiet yet steady. His love for Daisy was my favorite thing ever, the things he did for her (IYKYK). I loved how supportive and caring he was not just to Daisy but also her siblings. That he took the time to get to know them. The little things he did for Daisy, so she would feel seen, was so endearing.
I loved Jamie and Daisy together! What started out as best friends fake dating, turned complicated. It was such a good slow burn, with real struggles and issues, but they learned from that. Also, I love a passionate confession scene and they delivered. I am just obsessed with them and love them so much!
Thank you to the author Sarah for the gifted ARC!! All opinions expressed are my own!
🔥 Heat level: Kisses only
🫢 Language: None
July 13, 2026
Thank you Sarah Sutton for the gifted copy of this book. All thoughts are my own. 🩷
Ok, Sarah certainly knows how to write a sweet and swoony ya romance. I loved that this one featured a bookish quiet MMC - because we need more of these- and because Sarah made him perfectly adorable. The romance was sweet and a great friends to more vibe. She made the ex so unlikable that there wasn’t even a question in my mind of a love triangle - which made me happy. 🤭 she also made this a beautiful book for the oldest daughters who struggle not to take on everything. There was raw grief, emotional overwhelm, fears, and heavy moments, all mixed with the kind of young love everyone hopes for.
Spice: none, descriptive kissing, innuendo
Language: mild infrequent
Content: teenage drinking mentioned a couple times
Ok, Sarah certainly knows how to write a sweet and swoony ya romance. I loved that this one featured a bookish quiet MMC - because we need more of these- and because Sarah made him perfectly adorable. The romance was sweet and a great friends to more vibe. She made the ex so unlikable that there wasn’t even a question in my mind of a love triangle - which made me happy. 🤭 she also made this a beautiful book for the oldest daughters who struggle not to take on everything. There was raw grief, emotional overwhelm, fears, and heavy moments, all mixed with the kind of young love everyone hopes for.
Spice: none, descriptive kissing, innuendo
Language: mild infrequent
Content: teenage drinking mentioned a couple times
July 16, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
✨️Every romance trope I love in one book! Thank you so much to Sarah Sutton for the ARC! This is my honest review. As always, all thoughts are my own.✨️
After loving Beauty and the Bad Boy, I couldn't wait to start Beauty and the Bookworm, and somehow Sarah Sutton delivered another romance that completely stole my heart. This book had so many of my favorite tropes, friends to lovers, fake dating, and an artist/bookworm pairing, and I loved every second of it. I was smiling, kicking my feet, and squealing through so many scenes.
Jamie... where do I even begin?
He was everything you want in a book boyfriend. What made him so special wasn't that he suddenly became romantic because of the fake dating, it had always been there. He had been loving Daisy all along, quietly showing it through the smallest, sweetest gestures. The fake dating just gave him the chance to finally show what he'd been feeling all along. The way he paid attention to every little thing about Daisy absolutely melted my heart. His love wasn't just in the big moments; it was in all the quiet, thoughtful ones too. Honestly... who does the things he did for her? And don't even get me started on the way he interacted with Daisy's siblings. I loved every single scene with them.
Daisy had me feeling two completely opposite emotions. I wanted to wrap her in a hug... and then immediately shake her by the shoulders. Watching her hold onto her ex-boyfriend for so long was definitely my biggest frustration. He drove me crazy. He only ever seemed to care about the surface-level version of Daisy while Jamie loved every part of who she truly was. Like PLEASE Daisy... Jamie is literally right there!! I spent so much of this book internally screaming for Daisy to realize what she already had.
One of my favorite parts of the book was Jamie and Daisy's friendship. Their banter felt so natural, and because they were already best friends, every conversation just flowed effortlessly. Their relationship felt genuine from the very beginning, which made watching them fall in love even sweeter. And the QUOTES. Some of the swooniest romance quotes I've ever read, I was completely sold.
It was also so much fun getting to spend more time with Nellie and Beck again. I absolutely adored seeing them again, and their scenes added so much charm and humor to the story.
I cannot recommend this one enough. 🤭
🌼Some of my favorite quotes:🌼
"You don't want me to be Mr. Darcy... Mr. Darcy was the world's biggest idiot, too proud to show the woman he loved what he truly felt for her."
“The things I do for you, Daisy Carmichael.”
“Why are you looking at me like that?” Jamie didn’t miss a beat. “I’m looking at you the way I’ve always looked at you.”
“You keep a piece of paper in your pocket?” “Not all the time.” “Why?” “In case you ever forget your sketchbook. You always have a marker on your keyring—and I’ll always have the paper.”
"You've thought about kissing me these past few weeks... but I've thought about kissing you for years."
✨️Every romance trope I love in one book! Thank you so much to Sarah Sutton for the ARC! This is my honest review. As always, all thoughts are my own.✨️
After loving Beauty and the Bad Boy, I couldn't wait to start Beauty and the Bookworm, and somehow Sarah Sutton delivered another romance that completely stole my heart. This book had so many of my favorite tropes, friends to lovers, fake dating, and an artist/bookworm pairing, and I loved every second of it. I was smiling, kicking my feet, and squealing through so many scenes.
Jamie... where do I even begin?
He was everything you want in a book boyfriend. What made him so special wasn't that he suddenly became romantic because of the fake dating, it had always been there. He had been loving Daisy all along, quietly showing it through the smallest, sweetest gestures. The fake dating just gave him the chance to finally show what he'd been feeling all along. The way he paid attention to every little thing about Daisy absolutely melted my heart. His love wasn't just in the big moments; it was in all the quiet, thoughtful ones too. Honestly... who does the things he did for her? And don't even get me started on the way he interacted with Daisy's siblings. I loved every single scene with them.
Daisy had me feeling two completely opposite emotions. I wanted to wrap her in a hug... and then immediately shake her by the shoulders. Watching her hold onto her ex-boyfriend for so long was definitely my biggest frustration. He drove me crazy. He only ever seemed to care about the surface-level version of Daisy while Jamie loved every part of who she truly was. Like PLEASE Daisy... Jamie is literally right there!! I spent so much of this book internally screaming for Daisy to realize what she already had.
One of my favorite parts of the book was Jamie and Daisy's friendship. Their banter felt so natural, and because they were already best friends, every conversation just flowed effortlessly. Their relationship felt genuine from the very beginning, which made watching them fall in love even sweeter. And the QUOTES. Some of the swooniest romance quotes I've ever read, I was completely sold.
It was also so much fun getting to spend more time with Nellie and Beck again. I absolutely adored seeing them again, and their scenes added so much charm and humor to the story.
I cannot recommend this one enough. 🤭
🌼Some of my favorite quotes:🌼
"You don't want me to be Mr. Darcy... Mr. Darcy was the world's biggest idiot, too proud to show the woman he loved what he truly felt for her."
“The things I do for you, Daisy Carmichael.”
“Why are you looking at me like that?” Jamie didn’t miss a beat. “I’m looking at you the way I’ve always looked at you.”
“You keep a piece of paper in your pocket?” “Not all the time.” “Why?” “In case you ever forget your sketchbook. You always have a marker on your keyring—and I’ll always have the paper.”
"You've thought about kissing me these past few weeks... but I've thought about kissing you for years."
July 14, 2026
Reader’s Notes:
*Series or Connected Books?* part of a series, but can be read as a stand-alone
-Jamie & his twin sister Nellie are younger siblings to Destelle/Stella from Two Kinds of Us – but Stella’s story doesn’t need to be read to enjoy this one
*Point Of View:* Daisy
*Any Cursing Or Possibly Offensive Language?* there are about 4 mentions of characters cursing without using words on page; it is mentioned once that a character flashed ‘a particular finger’ to another
*Romance?* Yes! Just sweet kisses
*Things To Know:*
–Daisy’s dad passed in an accident about 5 years ago
-Daisy’s mom is constantly working, leaving Daisy in charge of her siblings most of the time
Review:
I adore best friends to more stories so I’ve been so excited to read this book! I loved getting to know Daisy better after having met her in Beauty and the Bad Boy as Nellie & Jamie’s best friend. I loved how Daisy & Jamie’s romance started with fake dating and that Jamie basically went all in from the beginning (not that Daisy realized this until later). It was so cute to see how much he cared about her and was willing to do things with her that he typically wouldn’t want to do (like dancing). I also loved how real Daisy was! As an older sister, I could totally relate to the things Daisy went through when watching over her siblings. But also, I loved that Daisy started off conflicted about her feelings for her ex and had to work through them along with her growing feelings for Jamie as their fake relationship went on.
Summary:
Daisy Carmichael is used to being disappointed, between having to put her siblings first as their main caretaker and being dumped last year by her longtime boyfriend. But when she’s waitlisted for her dream college it seems like Daisy’s one chance at having a life for herself is pulled out from under her.
Now with her ex-boyfriend being back in town, Daisy worries that she’ll make a horrible mistake and take him back. So she turns to her best friend Jamie Brighton for help to keep her in check around him. And Jamie does something completely unexpected: he kisses her in front of everyone. Which cements everyone’s suspicion that they’ve been a couple this whole time.
Daisy’s best option is to fake date Jamie to hopefully deter her ex from trying to win her back, but the longer Jamie pretends to love her, the more Daisy is finding herself believing it. And she isn’t sure that she’ll come out of their fake relationship unscathed…
*I voluntarily read & reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions presented here are my own.*
*Series or Connected Books?* part of a series, but can be read as a stand-alone
-Jamie & his twin sister Nellie are younger siblings to Destelle/Stella from Two Kinds of Us – but Stella’s story doesn’t need to be read to enjoy this one
*Point Of View:* Daisy
*Any Cursing Or Possibly Offensive Language?* there are about 4 mentions of characters cursing without using words on page; it is mentioned once that a character flashed ‘a particular finger’ to another
*Romance?* Yes! Just sweet kisses
*Things To Know:*
–Daisy’s dad passed in an accident about 5 years ago
-Daisy’s mom is constantly working, leaving Daisy in charge of her siblings most of the time
Review:
I adore best friends to more stories so I’ve been so excited to read this book! I loved getting to know Daisy better after having met her in Beauty and the Bad Boy as Nellie & Jamie’s best friend. I loved how Daisy & Jamie’s romance started with fake dating and that Jamie basically went all in from the beginning (not that Daisy realized this until later). It was so cute to see how much he cared about her and was willing to do things with her that he typically wouldn’t want to do (like dancing). I also loved how real Daisy was! As an older sister, I could totally relate to the things Daisy went through when watching over her siblings. But also, I loved that Daisy started off conflicted about her feelings for her ex and had to work through them along with her growing feelings for Jamie as their fake relationship went on.
Summary:
Daisy Carmichael is used to being disappointed, between having to put her siblings first as their main caretaker and being dumped last year by her longtime boyfriend. But when she’s waitlisted for her dream college it seems like Daisy’s one chance at having a life for herself is pulled out from under her.
Now with her ex-boyfriend being back in town, Daisy worries that she’ll make a horrible mistake and take him back. So she turns to her best friend Jamie Brighton for help to keep her in check around him. And Jamie does something completely unexpected: he kisses her in front of everyone. Which cements everyone’s suspicion that they’ve been a couple this whole time.
Daisy’s best option is to fake date Jamie to hopefully deter her ex from trying to win her back, but the longer Jamie pretends to love her, the more Daisy is finding herself believing it. And she isn’t sure that she’ll come out of their fake relationship unscathed…
*I voluntarily read & reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions presented here are my own.*
July 16, 2026
☆4.75/5☆
Huge thank you to Sarah Sutton for the ARC!
Beauty and the Bookworm absolutely stole my heart!!!
One of the things that resonated with me most was Daisy's overwhelming sense of responsibility for her younger sisters. She carried so much on her shoulders, and that emotional weight felt incredibly real. The scene where her mom finally apologized genuinely made me cry because it hit a very personal place for me. It's the kind of moment I wish more parents were capable of, and seeing Daisy receive those words was both healing and heartbreaking.
From the very first scene Daisy and Jamie shared, the chemistry was impossible to ignore. The tension absolutely oozed off the page, and every interaction somehow became even juicier than the last. I found myself rooting for them harder with every chapter because their relationship developed so naturally while never losing that electric pull between them.
Her ex, Dalton, sucked and pissed me tf off (as he should've, so amazing ick factor there). Raelynn did too, thinking she was entitled to a guy just bc she liked him?? Girl, piss off!
The conclusion was so satisfying, and the epilogue was the perfect finishing touch. It tied everything back to the beginning of the story in such a meaningful way that it left me closing the book with the biggest smile.
Honestly, this was *so* close to being flawless. My only small criticism is that there were a few moments where Daisy would repeat words or thoughts in her internal monologue almost immediately after they'd already been said, which felt repetitive. It's a very minor nitpick in an otherwise phenomenal reading experience.
I adored the pacing, loved Sarah Sutton's writing style, and never once felt like the story dragged. Every chapter kept me invested in their little love story.
Honestly, I am left wondering about Lydia and Carter though 👀 Next book??
Also, I ◇desperately◇ need a novella featuring Daisy, Jamie, Nellie, Beck, and their friend group during college. I would also love to see Daisy and Jamie finally create their graphic novel together because I know those chapters of their lives would be just as charming as this book.
Can't wait to read more from this author!
Huge thank you to Sarah Sutton for the ARC!
Beauty and the Bookworm absolutely stole my heart!!!
One of the things that resonated with me most was Daisy's overwhelming sense of responsibility for her younger sisters. She carried so much on her shoulders, and that emotional weight felt incredibly real. The scene where her mom finally apologized genuinely made me cry because it hit a very personal place for me. It's the kind of moment I wish more parents were capable of, and seeing Daisy receive those words was both healing and heartbreaking.
From the very first scene Daisy and Jamie shared, the chemistry was impossible to ignore. The tension absolutely oozed off the page, and every interaction somehow became even juicier than the last. I found myself rooting for them harder with every chapter because their relationship developed so naturally while never losing that electric pull between them.
Her ex, Dalton, sucked and pissed me tf off (as he should've, so amazing ick factor there). Raelynn did too, thinking she was entitled to a guy just bc she liked him?? Girl, piss off!
The conclusion was so satisfying, and the epilogue was the perfect finishing touch. It tied everything back to the beginning of the story in such a meaningful way that it left me closing the book with the biggest smile.
Honestly, this was *so* close to being flawless. My only small criticism is that there were a few moments where Daisy would repeat words or thoughts in her internal monologue almost immediately after they'd already been said, which felt repetitive. It's a very minor nitpick in an otherwise phenomenal reading experience.
I adored the pacing, loved Sarah Sutton's writing style, and never once felt like the story dragged. Every chapter kept me invested in their little love story.
Honestly, I am left wondering about Lydia and Carter though 👀 Next book??
Also, I ◇desperately◇ need a novella featuring Daisy, Jamie, Nellie, Beck, and their friend group during college. I would also love to see Daisy and Jamie finally create their graphic novel together because I know those chapters of their lives would be just as charming as this book.
Can't wait to read more from this author!
Read
July 10, 2026“I am looking at you the way I have always looked at you.”
I started reading Sarah Sutton’s books earlier this year because I needed the certainty of a happy ending, and I haven’t looked back! I fell completely in love with her books and “Beauty and the Bookworm” is no exception. I was hit with all the feels while reading this one. I laughed, I cried, and I swooned (because oh my heart, y’all, Jamie Brighton).
The characters were well written and developed beautifully throughout the story. Daisy especially is extremely compelling and I felt deeply for her. She’s snarky and stubborn and strong and imperfect in a real way. Her character arc is a true joy to read. ✨Jamie Brighton✨. Where can I find a man like this?? He’s so pure and so sweet and so so swoony. His support and intentionality towards Daisy is such a beautiful example of sweet love, and they have turned out to be one of my favorite couples.
I love, love, love how much the characters’ other relationships were a significant part of the story. One of my favorite things about Sarah Sutton’s books is how real her characters and their relationships are, and family and friends are no exception to that. Sutton creates real parents. Perfectly imperfect but trying. They’re not caricatures. They’re not villains. They’re people. They struggle but they make amends. I love that.
Fake dating, best friends to lovers, pining, what more can you ask for. Jamie truly steps up to help Daisy stay away from her toxic ex by dating her and romancing her under the guise of making it “convincing”. It’s a tale as old as time, and unerringly lovely.
My one “complaint” is that I wish there was more Beck, but that’s probably just because he’s one of my favorite characters. In all honesty, I have no notes. This book is all I wanted it to be. To all those looking for a good read with sweet love, good friends, and perfectly imperfect family, this is it.
“The moon continued to orbit the little planet til the end of time.”
An honest review of an ARC
I started reading Sarah Sutton’s books earlier this year because I needed the certainty of a happy ending, and I haven’t looked back! I fell completely in love with her books and “Beauty and the Bookworm” is no exception. I was hit with all the feels while reading this one. I laughed, I cried, and I swooned (because oh my heart, y’all, Jamie Brighton).
The characters were well written and developed beautifully throughout the story. Daisy especially is extremely compelling and I felt deeply for her. She’s snarky and stubborn and strong and imperfect in a real way. Her character arc is a true joy to read. ✨Jamie Brighton✨. Where can I find a man like this?? He’s so pure and so sweet and so so swoony. His support and intentionality towards Daisy is such a beautiful example of sweet love, and they have turned out to be one of my favorite couples.
I love, love, love how much the characters’ other relationships were a significant part of the story. One of my favorite things about Sarah Sutton’s books is how real her characters and their relationships are, and family and friends are no exception to that. Sutton creates real parents. Perfectly imperfect but trying. They’re not caricatures. They’re not villains. They’re people. They struggle but they make amends. I love that.
Fake dating, best friends to lovers, pining, what more can you ask for. Jamie truly steps up to help Daisy stay away from her toxic ex by dating her and romancing her under the guise of making it “convincing”. It’s a tale as old as time, and unerringly lovely.
My one “complaint” is that I wish there was more Beck, but that’s probably just because he’s one of my favorite characters. In all honesty, I have no notes. This book is all I wanted it to be. To all those looking for a good read with sweet love, good friends, and perfectly imperfect family, this is it.
“The moon continued to orbit the little planet til the end of time.”
An honest review of an ARC
July 7, 2026
I received an advance reader copy of "Beauty and the Bookworm", and it was exactly the cozy, heartwarming read I needed.
I gave this book 4 stars, not because I had complaints, but because I reserve 5 stars for the rare books that completely astound me. I genuinely enjoyed every minute of this story.
Daisy and Jamie were both so lovable, and I adored watching their relationship unfold. Fake dating and friends-to-lovers are two of my favorite tropes, and while I used to avoid friends-to-lovers, Sarah Sutton reminded me why it can be so special when it's written well. Their relationship felt natural, sweet, and incredibly swoony.
One of my favorite things about Sarah Sutton's books is how real her characters feel. Daisy wasn't perfect, and that's exactly why I connected with her. I found myself relating to some of her struggles and loved watching her grow into someone who was stronger, more confident, and genuinely servant-hearted. Her flaws, doubts, and mistakes all felt believable, making it easy to experience the story right alongside her.
Sarah has such a gift for writing wholesome contemporary YA romances that leave you smiling. There's an innocence and sincerity to her stories that keeps me coming back, and this book was no exception.
The only thing I found myself wishing for was a glimpse into Jamie's perspective. I completely understand why the story stayed in Daisy's point of view, it preserves so much of the emotional tension, but I would absolutely devour a bonus chapter or two from Jamie's perspective someday.
Overall, "Beauty and the Bookworm" was a cozy, feel-good read that pulled me right out of a reading slump. If you're looking for a sweet, heartfelt YA romance with lovable characters, wonderful chemistry, and all the cozy vibes, I'd definitely recommend picking this one up.
I gave this book 4 stars, not because I had complaints, but because I reserve 5 stars for the rare books that completely astound me. I genuinely enjoyed every minute of this story.
Daisy and Jamie were both so lovable, and I adored watching their relationship unfold. Fake dating and friends-to-lovers are two of my favorite tropes, and while I used to avoid friends-to-lovers, Sarah Sutton reminded me why it can be so special when it's written well. Their relationship felt natural, sweet, and incredibly swoony.
One of my favorite things about Sarah Sutton's books is how real her characters feel. Daisy wasn't perfect, and that's exactly why I connected with her. I found myself relating to some of her struggles and loved watching her grow into someone who was stronger, more confident, and genuinely servant-hearted. Her flaws, doubts, and mistakes all felt believable, making it easy to experience the story right alongside her.
Sarah has such a gift for writing wholesome contemporary YA romances that leave you smiling. There's an innocence and sincerity to her stories that keeps me coming back, and this book was no exception.
The only thing I found myself wishing for was a glimpse into Jamie's perspective. I completely understand why the story stayed in Daisy's point of view, it preserves so much of the emotional tension, but I would absolutely devour a bonus chapter or two from Jamie's perspective someday.
Overall, "Beauty and the Bookworm" was a cozy, feel-good read that pulled me right out of a reading slump. If you're looking for a sweet, heartfelt YA romance with lovable characters, wonderful chemistry, and all the cozy vibes, I'd definitely recommend picking this one up.
July 14, 2026
𝕀𝕗 𝕪𝕠𝕦'𝕣𝕖 𝕝𝕠𝕠𝕜𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕗𝕠𝕣 𝕒 𝕣𝕠𝕞𝕒𝕟𝕔𝕖 𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝 𝕥𝕒𝕜𝕖 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕠𝕟 𝕒𝕟 𝕖𝕞𝕠𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟𝕒𝕝 𝕣𝕠𝕝𝕝𝕖𝕣 𝕔𝕠𝕒𝕤𝕥𝕖𝕣 𝕨𝕙𝕚𝕝𝕖 𝕘𝕚𝕧𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕠𝕟𝕖 𝕠𝕗 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕤𝕨𝕖𝕖𝕥𝕖𝕤𝕥 𝕙𝕖𝕣𝕠𝕖𝕤 𝕪𝕠𝕦'𝕝𝕝 𝕖𝕧𝕖𝕣 𝕞𝕖𝕖𝕥, 𝔹𝕖𝕒𝕦𝕥𝕪 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝔹𝕠𝕠𝕜𝕨𝕠𝕣𝕞 𝕕𝕖𝕤𝕖𝕣𝕧𝕖𝕤 𝕒 𝕤𝕡𝕠𝕥 𝕒𝕥 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕥𝕠𝕡 𝕠𝕗 𝕪𝕠𝕦𝕣 𝕋𝔹ℝ.
Some books make you smile. Some make you cry. And then there are the rare ones that make you feel everything. Beauty and the Bookworm was one of those books for me.
From the very first page, I was completely invested. I laughed, I swooned, I got frustrated, I teared up, and by the end, I closed the book with the biggest smile on my face. Sarah Sutton has such a gift for writing characters that feel real, making every emotion hit exactly when it's supposed to.
But can we talk about 𝑱𝒂𝒎𝒊𝒆 for a second? Because I absolutely adored him. 🥹 He is the kind of book boyfriend who quietly works his way into your heart without you even realizing it. He's thoughtful, patient, caring, and the way he loves is so genuine that I found myself falling for him right alongside the heroine. Every scene he was in made me love him even more.
The romance was sweet, heartfelt, and full of those little moments that made my heart melt. It wasn't just about the butterflies, it was about growth, vulnerability, and finding someone who truly sees you for who you are.
This story reminded me why I love reading in the first place. It made me laugh out loud, tugged at my heartstrings, and left me with that bittersweet feeling of not wanting to say goodbye to the characters.
Jamie has officially earned a place on my forever favorite book boyfriend list. 💛📚
Some of my favorite quotes from this book:
“When you love someone, you’ll have them in your life any way you can get them. Being her friend was more than enough. In fact, it was an honor.”
“You always have a marker on your keyring—and I’ll always have the paper.”
Some books make you smile. Some make you cry. And then there are the rare ones that make you feel everything. Beauty and the Bookworm was one of those books for me.
From the very first page, I was completely invested. I laughed, I swooned, I got frustrated, I teared up, and by the end, I closed the book with the biggest smile on my face. Sarah Sutton has such a gift for writing characters that feel real, making every emotion hit exactly when it's supposed to.
But can we talk about 𝑱𝒂𝒎𝒊𝒆 for a second? Because I absolutely adored him. 🥹 He is the kind of book boyfriend who quietly works his way into your heart without you even realizing it. He's thoughtful, patient, caring, and the way he loves is so genuine that I found myself falling for him right alongside the heroine. Every scene he was in made me love him even more.
The romance was sweet, heartfelt, and full of those little moments that made my heart melt. It wasn't just about the butterflies, it was about growth, vulnerability, and finding someone who truly sees you for who you are.
This story reminded me why I love reading in the first place. It made me laugh out loud, tugged at my heartstrings, and left me with that bittersweet feeling of not wanting to say goodbye to the characters.
Jamie has officially earned a place on my forever favorite book boyfriend list. 💛📚
Some of my favorite quotes from this book:
“When you love someone, you’ll have them in your life any way you can get them. Being her friend was more than enough. In fact, it was an honor.”
“You always have a marker on your keyring—and I’ll always have the paper.”
July 5, 2026
A masterpiece. A YA rom-com movie-like masterpiece!! I loved this book SO SO much! I'm usually not a great fan of the friends-to-lovers trope, but ever since Jamie and Daisy's first appearance in Beauty and the Bad Boy, I knew those two were perfect for each other.
Something that surprised me in both books (and that I consider one of their best aspects) is how Sarah crafted psychologically interesting and deep characters. Daisy's burnout, her management of her emotions, her bond with her siblings, her mom, Nellie, Dalton, and of course Jamie, were all written in such a compelling and realistic way that I had to stop reading every once in a while to analyze everyone's actions and motives 🤭. Another thing that was masterfully done was how there was never an imbalance between the sweetness of the story and the darkness of the heavy topics; they were developed naturally as Daisy's arc progressed. She is really just a girl, and SO relatable (even if just a little blind to certain signs 🙃).
Now, Jamie, sweet, swoony Jamie. He was an authentic green forest! I knew I'd love him as an MMC, and yet he exceeded my expectations. He is so incredibly sweet; definitely the standard. The way he respects, admires, sees, and takes care of Daisy... 🤧🤌🏻. Like him, I'm kind of an easy crier, but never before had I been about to cry because something was cute in a book. I was tearing up over some of Jamie's gestures throughout the book. And when I wasn't, I either wanted to give him a hug or was swooning.
The little Carmichaels steal the spotlight, and Nellie and Beck's appearances were lovely! And the ending to the book? The perfect one! This duology is, without a doubt, one of my absolute favorites of the year 😌. Can't praise it enough!!
Something that surprised me in both books (and that I consider one of their best aspects) is how Sarah crafted psychologically interesting and deep characters. Daisy's burnout, her management of her emotions, her bond with her siblings, her mom, Nellie, Dalton, and of course Jamie, were all written in such a compelling and realistic way that I had to stop reading every once in a while to analyze everyone's actions and motives 🤭. Another thing that was masterfully done was how there was never an imbalance between the sweetness of the story and the darkness of the heavy topics; they were developed naturally as Daisy's arc progressed. She is really just a girl, and SO relatable (even if just a little blind to certain signs 🙃).
Now, Jamie, sweet, swoony Jamie. He was an authentic green forest! I knew I'd love him as an MMC, and yet he exceeded my expectations. He is so incredibly sweet; definitely the standard. The way he respects, admires, sees, and takes care of Daisy... 🤧🤌🏻. Like him, I'm kind of an easy crier, but never before had I been about to cry because something was cute in a book. I was tearing up over some of Jamie's gestures throughout the book. And when I wasn't, I either wanted to give him a hug or was swooning.
The little Carmichaels steal the spotlight, and Nellie and Beck's appearances were lovely! And the ending to the book? The perfect one! This duology is, without a doubt, one of my absolute favorites of the year 😌. Can't praise it enough!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Sarah Sutton has such a talent for writing young adult romance that feels genuine, emotional, and impossible to stop reading. From the very first chapter, I was completely invested in Daisy and Jamie's story, and before I knew it, I had finished the book in a single sitting.
What starts as a fake dating arrangement quickly turns into something far more heartfelt. I loved how naturally Daisy and Jamie's relationship developed. Every conversation, every lingering glance, and every quiet moment between them made their growing connection feel authentic rather than rushed. Their chemistry was sweet without losing the emotional weight behind it.
What stood out to me most, though, was Daisy's personal journey. Beyond the romance, she's carrying responsibilities and pressures that no teenager should have to face alone. Watching her navigate family expectations while trying to figure out what she truly wanted for herself added so much depth to the story. It made me root for her just as much as I rooted for the romance.
Jamie was an absolute standout. Patient, supportive, and endlessly thoughtful, he proved that the best love interests aren't just charming—they show up when it matters most. He brought so much warmth to the story, and every scene with him left me smiling.
This book balances romance and emotional growth beautifully, making it much more than a typical fake dating story. If you're looking for a YA romance with lovable characters, meaningful family dynamics, slow-burn chemistry, and plenty of heart, this is one I highly recommend.
Thank you to Sarah Sutton for the opportunity to read an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
What starts as a fake dating arrangement quickly turns into something far more heartfelt. I loved how naturally Daisy and Jamie's relationship developed. Every conversation, every lingering glance, and every quiet moment between them made their growing connection feel authentic rather than rushed. Their chemistry was sweet without losing the emotional weight behind it.
What stood out to me most, though, was Daisy's personal journey. Beyond the romance, she's carrying responsibilities and pressures that no teenager should have to face alone. Watching her navigate family expectations while trying to figure out what she truly wanted for herself added so much depth to the story. It made me root for her just as much as I rooted for the romance.
Jamie was an absolute standout. Patient, supportive, and endlessly thoughtful, he proved that the best love interests aren't just charming—they show up when it matters most. He brought so much warmth to the story, and every scene with him left me smiling.
This book balances romance and emotional growth beautifully, making it much more than a typical fake dating story. If you're looking for a YA romance with lovable characters, meaningful family dynamics, slow-burn chemistry, and plenty of heart, this is one I highly recommend.
Thank you to Sarah Sutton for the opportunity to read an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
July 6, 2026
"𝙞 𝙖𝙢 𝙖 𝙢𝙤𝙤𝙣 𝙘𝙖𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙞𝙣 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙤𝙧𝙗𝙞𝙩, 𝙙𝙖𝙞𝙨𝙮 𝙘𝙖𝙧𝙢𝙞𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙚𝙡. 𝙞 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙗𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙨𝙥𝙞𝙣𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙙 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙨𝙤 𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙜 𝙞 𝙙𝙤𝙣'𝙩 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙣 𝙧𝙚𝙢𝙚𝙢𝙗𝙚𝙧 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙞𝙩 𝙛𝙚𝙡𝙩 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙗𝙚𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙚."
★★★★★ stars!
🧡𝐦𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬: first off, thank you so much to sarah sutton for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review! not only was this my first ARC, but also one of my favorite reads this year.
this book was absolutely amazing! i finished it in two days because i just could not put it down. i connected with the characters so much that it actually had me crying at times 🥲 sarah sutton DEFINITELY knows how to write a romance book. she did best-friends-to-lovers perfectly and she had me giggling over the "it's always been you" trope.
🧡𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬!
➳ daisy: as the eldest daughter, daisy was extremely relatable for me. she definitely made some dumb decisions at times, but i still loved her so much.
➳ jamie: i swear my boyfriend standards get higher with every book i read. i loved jamie soooo much. he was so protective of daisy and an amazing friend to her. i mostly loved how much he loves books 🤭
➳ nellie: i loved her so much! i will definitely be reading beauty and the bad boy soon!
➳ dalton: let's just say i was ready to punch him...
➳ daisy's siblings: they made this book so funny in my opinion, even if they were brats sometimes. i especially loved theo and penn
🧡𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥𝐥: this book was amazing! i would recommend this book to literally anyone and i will definitely be reading more sarah sutton very soon!
"𝙞𝙛 𝙞𝙩 𝙢𝙚𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙞 𝙜𝙤𝙩 𝙖 𝙜𝙡𝙞𝙢𝙥𝙨𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙞𝙩'𝙙 𝙗𝙚 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙗𝙚 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙙 𝙗𝙮 𝙮𝙤𝙪, 𝙞'𝙙 𝙘𝙝𝙤𝙤𝙨𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙥𝙖𝙞𝙣 𝙖𝙜𝙖𝙞𝙣 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙖𝙜𝙖𝙞𝙣."
★★★★★ stars!
🧡𝐦𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬: first off, thank you so much to sarah sutton for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review! not only was this my first ARC, but also one of my favorite reads this year.
this book was absolutely amazing! i finished it in two days because i just could not put it down. i connected with the characters so much that it actually had me crying at times 🥲 sarah sutton DEFINITELY knows how to write a romance book. she did best-friends-to-lovers perfectly and she had me giggling over the "it's always been you" trope.
🧡𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬!
➳ daisy: as the eldest daughter, daisy was extremely relatable for me. she definitely made some dumb decisions at times, but i still loved her so much.
➳ jamie: i swear my boyfriend standards get higher with every book i read. i loved jamie soooo much. he was so protective of daisy and an amazing friend to her. i mostly loved how much he loves books 🤭
➳ nellie: i loved her so much! i will definitely be reading beauty and the bad boy soon!
➳ dalton: let's just say i was ready to punch him...
➳ daisy's siblings: they made this book so funny in my opinion, even if they were brats sometimes. i especially loved theo and penn
🧡𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥𝐥: this book was amazing! i would recommend this book to literally anyone and i will definitely be reading more sarah sutton very soon!
"𝙞𝙛 𝙞𝙩 𝙢𝙚𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙞 𝙜𝙤𝙩 𝙖 𝙜𝙡𝙞𝙢𝙥𝙨𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙞𝙩'𝙙 𝙗𝙚 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙗𝙚 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙙 𝙗𝙮 𝙮𝙤𝙪, 𝙞'𝙙 𝙘𝙝𝙤𝙤𝙨𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙥𝙖𝙞𝙣 𝙖𝙜𝙖𝙞𝙣 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙖𝙜𝙖𝙞𝙣."
Review of advance copy received from Author
Okay, I need to know what Sarah is putting in these books because I’m ADDICTED! 🤩
Guys… JAMIE. Dude, you are KILLING ME!! This man had me blushing by CHAPTER 4!!! I genuinely don’t think I can prepare you enough for all the moments Jamie absolutely melts your heart. 🥰💕
Can we also talk about Daisy? She is a WAY better big sister than I would ever be. 😂 She loves her siblings so fiercely and looks after them like they’re her own kids. She carries so much guilt over some of her choices when, honestly, I thought they were completely valid. 😂 She’s basically a human punching bag and somehow just keeps getting back up. I wanted to give this girl the biggest hug.
Guys… I’m literally STILL smiling like an idiot after finishing this book. 🤭
✨ “When you love someone, you’ll have them in your life any way you can get them. Being her friend was more than enough. In fact, it was an honor.”
✨ “I’d appreciate it… if you kept your hands off my girlfriend.”
✨ “When it’s your friend, sometimes you just do things for them without getting anything in return. And sometimes the happiness of getting to help them is enough.”
GUYS!!!! I’m obsessed with these two, and it’s not even funny. 🤭🤭
Tropes you’ll find in this book:
🌼 Fake Dating
🌼 Friends to Lovers
🌼 Best Friend’s Twin Brother
🌼 Quiet Bookish Boy
🌼 Artist Sunshine Girl
🌼 Overwhelmed Oldest Daughter
🌼 Slow Burn
If this sounds like your kind of book, definitely move it to the TOP of your TBR when it releases! 🥰
Guys… JAMIE. Dude, you are KILLING ME!! This man had me blushing by CHAPTER 4!!! I genuinely don’t think I can prepare you enough for all the moments Jamie absolutely melts your heart. 🥰💕
Can we also talk about Daisy? She is a WAY better big sister than I would ever be. 😂 She loves her siblings so fiercely and looks after them like they’re her own kids. She carries so much guilt over some of her choices when, honestly, I thought they were completely valid. 😂 She’s basically a human punching bag and somehow just keeps getting back up. I wanted to give this girl the biggest hug.
Guys… I’m literally STILL smiling like an idiot after finishing this book. 🤭
✨ “When you love someone, you’ll have them in your life any way you can get them. Being her friend was more than enough. In fact, it was an honor.”
✨ “I’d appreciate it… if you kept your hands off my girlfriend.”
✨ “When it’s your friend, sometimes you just do things for them without getting anything in return. And sometimes the happiness of getting to help them is enough.”
GUYS!!!! I’m obsessed with these two, and it’s not even funny. 🤭🤭
Tropes you’ll find in this book:
🌼 Fake Dating
🌼 Friends to Lovers
🌼 Best Friend’s Twin Brother
🌼 Quiet Bookish Boy
🌼 Artist Sunshine Girl
🌼 Overwhelmed Oldest Daughter
🌼 Slow Burn
If this sounds like your kind of book, definitely move it to the TOP of your TBR when it releases! 🥰
July 6, 2026
Thank you so much to the author for the arc!
I’ve had Sarah’s books on my tbr for so long but this is the first I’ve had chance to read and I loved it so much!! I’ll definitely be working my way through her previous releases as well as any future ones!
This was such a sweet, fun read and had absolutely everything I’d want from a romance book. The characters are so likeable and I love the way the author writes them as well as her humour. The story had so much depth besides the romance and it was portrayed so well. Seeing how much responsibility Daisy had to deal with and watching her figure out her own needs added so many layers and made each character feel so fleshed out. Jamie is a new favourite mmc of mine (I love that he’s the book lover out of the two of them!) he’s so sweet, loyal and funny and I really loved how supportive he was of Daisy and his interactions with her siblings. The other characters were great too especially Nellie and Beck whose book I’m so excited to read. Friends to lovers is one of my favourite tropes and this was done so well! I instantly felt the connection between the two of them and it was really nice to see it grow into something more. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would definitely recommend it, so excited to start reading Sarah’s other books now!
I’ve had Sarah’s books on my tbr for so long but this is the first I’ve had chance to read and I loved it so much!! I’ll definitely be working my way through her previous releases as well as any future ones!
This was such a sweet, fun read and had absolutely everything I’d want from a romance book. The characters are so likeable and I love the way the author writes them as well as her humour. The story had so much depth besides the romance and it was portrayed so well. Seeing how much responsibility Daisy had to deal with and watching her figure out her own needs added so many layers and made each character feel so fleshed out. Jamie is a new favourite mmc of mine (I love that he’s the book lover out of the two of them!) he’s so sweet, loyal and funny and I really loved how supportive he was of Daisy and his interactions with her siblings. The other characters were great too especially Nellie and Beck whose book I’m so excited to read. Friends to lovers is one of my favourite tropes and this was done so well! I instantly felt the connection between the two of them and it was really nice to see it grow into something more. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would definitely recommend it, so excited to start reading Sarah’s other books now!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I fear this might be my new favorite Sarah book. That’s coming from someone who has read her whole backlist.
Thank you, Sarah, for this digital ARC!! I was looking forward to this series when Beauty and the Bad Boy came out, and this blew all my very high expectations out of the water. I loved the snippets we got of Jamie and Daisy in the first book in the series, but seeing them shine in this one was absolutely perfection. Sarah writes very well-rounded and honest main characters. Daisy went through a realistic struggle with grief, people pleasing, expectations, and discouragement, yet we see her learn to handle all of it with grace and grow. She’s a very fitting character for the audience that I believe many YA readers will connect with and find real. I know her struggle well, and seeing it displayed in detail was very well done. I loved Daisy’s more outspoken side and her attitude. She was unapologetically herself, which I appreciated. Jamie was an amazing MMC. I thought Landon and Walsh were my favorites, but something about Jamie got me. If you like Conrad Fisher, you will like Jamie. Jamie was a YEARNER. The things he said and displayed through action were so attractive. Beyond that, he also had his own small backstory and insecurities, which made the romance more relatable and real. You can’t convince me Sarah’s characters aren’t real. 🤷🏻♀️ All the side characters were very sweet and balanced. I loved seeing new faces and some old ones too. I’m going to be so honest, Daisy’s ex wasn’t so bad. I see potential. That’s all I will say. Overall, absolutely blown away with this one. It was so swoon-worthy and truly some of Sarah’s best work.
There were some passionate kisses with some light description.
Thank you, Sarah, for this digital ARC!! I was looking forward to this series when Beauty and the Bad Boy came out, and this blew all my very high expectations out of the water. I loved the snippets we got of Jamie and Daisy in the first book in the series, but seeing them shine in this one was absolutely perfection. Sarah writes very well-rounded and honest main characters. Daisy went through a realistic struggle with grief, people pleasing, expectations, and discouragement, yet we see her learn to handle all of it with grace and grow. She’s a very fitting character for the audience that I believe many YA readers will connect with and find real. I know her struggle well, and seeing it displayed in detail was very well done. I loved Daisy’s more outspoken side and her attitude. She was unapologetically herself, which I appreciated. Jamie was an amazing MMC. I thought Landon and Walsh were my favorites, but something about Jamie got me. If you like Conrad Fisher, you will like Jamie. Jamie was a YEARNER. The things he said and displayed through action were so attractive. Beyond that, he also had his own small backstory and insecurities, which made the romance more relatable and real. You can’t convince me Sarah’s characters aren’t real. 🤷🏻♀️ All the side characters were very sweet and balanced. I loved seeing new faces and some old ones too. I’m going to be so honest, Daisy’s ex wasn’t so bad. I see potential. That’s all I will say. Overall, absolutely blown away with this one. It was so swoon-worthy and truly some of Sarah’s best work.
There were some passionate kisses with some light description.
July 11, 2026
So it’s becoming a trend that each new Sarah Sutton book is my new favourite Sarah Sutton book. This was no exception. I LOVED Beauty and the Bookworm. Absolutely ten out of ten loved it.
This book made me GIDDY. Kicking my feet is no exaggeration for how I felt at certain parts of the story. And, oh my gosh, the emotions, you guys, the EMOTIONS I FELT when reading a certain scene with Daisy and the kids and their mom.
I wanted to bawl.
This is the most I have ever felt for a Sarah Sutton FMC. I loved Daisy. I felt her pain and though I wanted to throttle her at times (you know when you’re watching a horror movie and you yell at the character “DON’T GO IN THERE!!”? That was me every time Daisy talked to Dalton), I mostly wanted to throttle him 100 times over.
Now, the MMC.
Jamie. My beautiful boy.
I know Nellie’s whole thing in BATBB was trying to be perfect… but Jamie actually IS PERFECT. I love him. I will hear no negativity about him. That’s my baby.
That said, I am biased because Perfect Jamie reminds me A LOT of my husband. The quiet, reserved guy who is happy to do anything for his friend who he is pining for because she means that much to him? Yeah I’ll eat that up all day.
Needless to say at this point in the review.
5 stars. I’d give it 7 stars if I could. And you know what? F#*k it, it’s my review so yeah 7 stars.
This book made me GIDDY. Kicking my feet is no exaggeration for how I felt at certain parts of the story. And, oh my gosh, the emotions, you guys, the EMOTIONS I FELT when reading a certain scene with Daisy and the kids and their mom.
I wanted to bawl.
This is the most I have ever felt for a Sarah Sutton FMC. I loved Daisy. I felt her pain and though I wanted to throttle her at times (you know when you’re watching a horror movie and you yell at the character “DON’T GO IN THERE!!”? That was me every time Daisy talked to Dalton), I mostly wanted to throttle him 100 times over.
Now, the MMC.
Jamie. My beautiful boy.
I know Nellie’s whole thing in BATBB was trying to be perfect… but Jamie actually IS PERFECT. I love him. I will hear no negativity about him. That’s my baby.
That said, I am biased because Perfect Jamie reminds me A LOT of my husband. The quiet, reserved guy who is happy to do anything for his friend who he is pining for because she means that much to him? Yeah I’ll eat that up all day.
Needless to say at this point in the review.
5 stars. I’d give it 7 stars if I could. And you know what? F#*k it, it’s my review so yeah 7 stars.
July 12, 2026
Daisy Carmichael asks her best friend Jamie Brighton to pretend to be her boyfriend—partly to keep her ex at bay and partly to help her heal a broken heart. Daisy never anticipated that the more time she spent with her fake boyfriend, the less fake everything began to feel.
Daisy and Jamie start the novel as a fake couple, but they always felt real to me. The two of them are as close as friends can be before they start "dating," so it is obvious they wouldn’t have to work hard to sell the idea that they are together. I love how their relationship deepens over time and how they become a safe place for the other to fall.
Their sweetness turned truly swoony when Daisy’s friendly affections began to shift toward something more. I have always been a fan of fake dating and the friends-to-lovers tropes, but this story’s execution of both tropes is my absolute favorite. The only thing that could have made the story better would have been more time with these characters; a single book will never be enough to tell their story.
Sarah Sutton seamlessly blends fake dating and friends-to-lovers tropes in this sweet story about two longtime friends faking something more. Beauty and the Bookworm is for readers who enjoy romance that is full of emotional depth, meaningful character growth, and a slow-burn fake dating storyline.
Daisy and Jamie start the novel as a fake couple, but they always felt real to me. The two of them are as close as friends can be before they start "dating," so it is obvious they wouldn’t have to work hard to sell the idea that they are together. I love how their relationship deepens over time and how they become a safe place for the other to fall.
Their sweetness turned truly swoony when Daisy’s friendly affections began to shift toward something more. I have always been a fan of fake dating and the friends-to-lovers tropes, but this story’s execution of both tropes is my absolute favorite. The only thing that could have made the story better would have been more time with these characters; a single book will never be enough to tell their story.
Sarah Sutton seamlessly blends fake dating and friends-to-lovers tropes in this sweet story about two longtime friends faking something more. Beauty and the Bookworm is for readers who enjoy romance that is full of emotional depth, meaningful character growth, and a slow-burn fake dating storyline.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5
I really enjoyed reading Daisy and Jamie's story! I was rooting for them ever since the previous book. I think there's a good balance between the romance and the hard topics that the FMC is struggling with.
I got to say that it was so refreshing that the MMC was not the typical popular/athletic guy, but that he was introverted and a book lover. He was so supportive, patient and loved every aspect of Daisy and, his story about the little planet, knowing how he was feeling, broke my heart a little. He was a complete green flag.
Even though there were moments I wanted to shout at Daisy for how she was snapping at some people or how her feeling for Dalton, it was actually raw and real. She was balancing a lot by herself, looking after her siblings, living with university uncertainties, dealing with all her fears and emotions, I found myself shedding few tears when she reaches her max. But I loved to see how she growth to become stronger and more confident.
In both books, a key component that I liked is the friendship between the twins and Daisy, and, in this one, with Beck too. How they always have their backs but also that they are willing to be honest and provide advice when needed.
* This is a closed-door romance
* Thanks the author for this E-ARC opportunity. All the opinions expressed are purely my own.
I really enjoyed reading Daisy and Jamie's story! I was rooting for them ever since the previous book. I think there's a good balance between the romance and the hard topics that the FMC is struggling with.
I got to say that it was so refreshing that the MMC was not the typical popular/athletic guy, but that he was introverted and a book lover. He was so supportive, patient and loved every aspect of Daisy and, his story about the little planet, knowing how he was feeling, broke my heart a little. He was a complete green flag.
Even though there were moments I wanted to shout at Daisy for how she was snapping at some people or how her feeling for Dalton, it was actually raw and real. She was balancing a lot by herself, looking after her siblings, living with university uncertainties, dealing with all her fears and emotions, I found myself shedding few tears when she reaches her max. But I loved to see how she growth to become stronger and more confident.
In both books, a key component that I liked is the friendship between the twins and Daisy, and, in this one, with Beck too. How they always have their backs but also that they are willing to be honest and provide advice when needed.
* This is a closed-door romance
* Thanks the author for this E-ARC opportunity. All the opinions expressed are purely my own.
July 16, 2026
Another amazing Sarah Sutton read! (And it might just be my favorite one yet? 👀💕)
Beauty and the Bookworm was everything I was hoping for and more! 💕 Daisy and Jamie are the cutest together, and getting to read their love story was so sweet! 🥹 fake dating and friends to lovers are two of my favorite tropes, so I knew it was going to be great, but I cannot tell you how amazing of a job Sarah did with this book! Everything from the characters to the plot to how relatable and personable it all felt was done so well, and I found myself smiling at the sweetness, giggling at the cuteness, and even tearing up at times 🥹 I definitely wanted to keep reading to find out what would happen next 👀
The way Sarah writes is so descriptive and flows so well, while also being easy and so fun to read, and the worlds she creates are so well thought out - she’s definitely at the top of my favorite authors list ☺️ I loved seeing Daisy’s character arc develop and she was so interesting to read with all the different layers she had, too 🥹 and Jamie is quite possibly the best book boyfriend in any of Sarah’s books 🥰 (that’s just my opinion, but you’ll just have to read it to see for yourself 😉)
If you’re looking for your next sweet, no spice summer read to add to your tbr, Beauty and the Bookworm is definitely it - I promise you won’t be disappointed! ☺️💕
Beauty and the Bookworm was everything I was hoping for and more! 💕 Daisy and Jamie are the cutest together, and getting to read their love story was so sweet! 🥹 fake dating and friends to lovers are two of my favorite tropes, so I knew it was going to be great, but I cannot tell you how amazing of a job Sarah did with this book! Everything from the characters to the plot to how relatable and personable it all felt was done so well, and I found myself smiling at the sweetness, giggling at the cuteness, and even tearing up at times 🥹 I definitely wanted to keep reading to find out what would happen next 👀
The way Sarah writes is so descriptive and flows so well, while also being easy and so fun to read, and the worlds she creates are so well thought out - she’s definitely at the top of my favorite authors list ☺️ I loved seeing Daisy’s character arc develop and she was so interesting to read with all the different layers she had, too 🥹 and Jamie is quite possibly the best book boyfriend in any of Sarah’s books 🥰 (that’s just my opinion, but you’ll just have to read it to see for yourself 😉)
If you’re looking for your next sweet, no spice summer read to add to your tbr, Beauty and the Bookworm is definitely it - I promise you won’t be disappointed! ☺️💕
July 3, 2026
This is, not only my first ARC, but also my first book I got to read from Sarah Sutton.
I do own Beauty and the Bad Boy, but I hadn't yet had a chance to read it.. and after this one, I am eager to start that one.
I began this book last night after finishing a really emotional book - thinking this one wouldn't pull at my heartstrings and it would just be an easy little romcom. I was 50% through before stopping to go to sleep and I was realizing how wrong I was.
This book gripped me in a way I didn't expect. Jamie.. I fell in love with Jamie - as an adult with kids, Jamie is who I will compare my daughters future love interests to. The way he loved, not only Daisy, but the most important things to her.
I remember thinking when I was a few chapters in that I wasn't sure how it would go to read from only Daisy's point of view, being more used to the dual POVs of many other romance novels. It worked and it worked very well.
I don't want to spoil it, so I'll leave off with this: I will read many more books from Sarah. Her word choices were perfect. Her pacing phenomenal. Her plot, glorious. She touched on the darkness within and the way it threatens to consume and I wept and kept going, tears still in my eyes, but a smile on my face to the final word.
I do own Beauty and the Bad Boy, but I hadn't yet had a chance to read it.. and after this one, I am eager to start that one.
I began this book last night after finishing a really emotional book - thinking this one wouldn't pull at my heartstrings and it would just be an easy little romcom. I was 50% through before stopping to go to sleep and I was realizing how wrong I was.
This book gripped me in a way I didn't expect. Jamie.. I fell in love with Jamie - as an adult with kids, Jamie is who I will compare my daughters future love interests to. The way he loved, not only Daisy, but the most important things to her.
I remember thinking when I was a few chapters in that I wasn't sure how it would go to read from only Daisy's point of view, being more used to the dual POVs of many other romance novels. It worked and it worked very well.
I don't want to spoil it, so I'll leave off with this: I will read many more books from Sarah. Her word choices were perfect. Her pacing phenomenal. Her plot, glorious. She touched on the darkness within and the way it threatens to consume and I wept and kept going, tears still in my eyes, but a smile on my face to the final word.
July 8, 2026
**Thank you to the author for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.**
⭐️ 4.5 stars
💖 No spice romance
📖 Release date: July 15, 2026
~~~
Ngl it took me a chapter or two to get invested in “Beauty and the Bookworm”, but once I did it was READ, READ, READ! READ MORE! EMOTION! INTRIGUE! 💥💥💥
Daisy and Jamie’s story is a realistic depiction of a teenager’s transition period between graduating high school and going to college — and the romance aspect that sometimes comes with it. Sutton does an amazing job with this fake dating, friends-to-lovers YA romance, making the arc of the characters, relationships, and life events make sense and be frustrating and heartbreaking all at once.
When I tell you at one point I was SOBBING and had a hard time breathing because my heart hurt SO MUCH for Daisy that it felt like her pain was my pain… yeah, I’m surprised my roommates didn’t check on me. The pain of the unknown, of feeling like a failure, of losing people — it all piles up in her mind. And so it did in my heart.
Love,
Sophia 🩷
PS: I signed up for her newsletter so I can read a couple of chapters from Jamie’s POV because while I get the gist of what he was going through, I always appreciate a different perspective.
⭐️ 4.5 stars
💖 No spice romance
📖 Release date: July 15, 2026
~~~
Ngl it took me a chapter or two to get invested in “Beauty and the Bookworm”, but once I did it was READ, READ, READ! READ MORE! EMOTION! INTRIGUE! 💥💥💥
Daisy and Jamie’s story is a realistic depiction of a teenager’s transition period between graduating high school and going to college — and the romance aspect that sometimes comes with it. Sutton does an amazing job with this fake dating, friends-to-lovers YA romance, making the arc of the characters, relationships, and life events make sense and be frustrating and heartbreaking all at once.
When I tell you at one point I was SOBBING and had a hard time breathing because my heart hurt SO MUCH for Daisy that it felt like her pain was my pain… yeah, I’m surprised my roommates didn’t check on me. The pain of the unknown, of feeling like a failure, of losing people — it all piles up in her mind. And so it did in my heart.
Love,
Sophia 🩷
PS: I signed up for her newsletter so I can read a couple of chapters from Jamie’s POV because while I get the gist of what he was going through, I always appreciate a different perspective.
Review of advance copy received from Author
🎨📚Beauty and the Bookworm by Sarah Sutton📚🎨
Book #2 in the Beauties and Boys series.
📖ARC REVIEW!!📖
Released and Available Today!🎉
Is it possible to not know who I like more?? Beck or Jamie?!!
I DONT KNOW OKAY
CUZ RIGHT NOW THEYRE BOTH 10/10
Wow, Sarah did it again with this amazing, swoony, and beautiful story of an artist and a very tall, very quiet, and very underestimated Bookworm named Jamie. Yeah couldn’t get better than that? Yes it can. He was also that “I’d do anything for you” guy AND He wears glasses??!
Like PU-LEASE 🥵😍🤭
Ok not only that but i could also just feel the realness in the characters.
There were so many raw moments.
And each time Jamie was there FOR HER.
The whole thing with Dalton??!
I wanted that guy gone the minute he was in town. “Like do not mess up what’s cooking up in here with Jamie”
Ugh and he just gave me the ick. 🥴🤧
Ok but going back..
I loved Daisy. She was so funny and weird and quirky and I LOVED THAT. The fact that her and Jamie were best friends and that their dynamic was THAT amazing makes me really want to have a guy best friend.
And I can’t not mention this cuz it’s just too good not to mention. But the fact that Jamie wasn’t this buff guy was literal genius
Because usually really tall guys aren’t that muscular or wide and it was SO REFRESHING to read that he was tall and lanky!!
Last but certainly not least, the romance was TOP TIER. E-V-E-R-Y-T-H-I-N-G.
Argh, the kisses, the banter, the QUOTES.. oh my gosh if I could’ve, I would’ve highlighted this entire book.
Ok if you haven’t realized this, you need to read this book. Stop scrolling and GO. FIND. THIS. BOOK.
My rating: 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
⚠️ Age Recommendation: 15-16+ ⚠️
CONTENT INFO‼️
Sexual Content: No Spice- up to Semi-detailed kisses, appropriate touches, etc.
Language: No cussing- two forms of hell, a holy crap, and one rude hand gesture
Violence: not really any
LGBTQ content: None!
Book #2 in the Beauties and Boys series.
📖ARC REVIEW!!📖
Released and Available Today!🎉
Is it possible to not know who I like more?? Beck or Jamie?!!
I DONT KNOW OKAY
CUZ RIGHT NOW THEYRE BOTH 10/10
Wow, Sarah did it again with this amazing, swoony, and beautiful story of an artist and a very tall, very quiet, and very underestimated Bookworm named Jamie. Yeah couldn’t get better than that? Yes it can. He was also that “I’d do anything for you” guy AND He wears glasses??!
Like PU-LEASE 🥵😍🤭
Ok not only that but i could also just feel the realness in the characters.
There were so many raw moments.
And each time Jamie was there FOR HER.
The whole thing with Dalton??!
I wanted that guy gone the minute he was in town. “Like do not mess up what’s cooking up in here with Jamie”
Ugh and he just gave me the ick. 🥴🤧
Ok but going back..
I loved Daisy. She was so funny and weird and quirky and I LOVED THAT. The fact that her and Jamie were best friends and that their dynamic was THAT amazing makes me really want to have a guy best friend.
And I can’t not mention this cuz it’s just too good not to mention. But the fact that Jamie wasn’t this buff guy was literal genius
Because usually really tall guys aren’t that muscular or wide and it was SO REFRESHING to read that he was tall and lanky!!
Last but certainly not least, the romance was TOP TIER. E-V-E-R-Y-T-H-I-N-G.
Argh, the kisses, the banter, the QUOTES.. oh my gosh if I could’ve, I would’ve highlighted this entire book.
Ok if you haven’t realized this, you need to read this book. Stop scrolling and GO. FIND. THIS. BOOK.
My rating: 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
⚠️ Age Recommendation: 15-16+ ⚠️
CONTENT INFO‼️
Sexual Content: No Spice- up to Semi-detailed kisses, appropriate touches, etc.
Language: No cussing- two forms of hell, a holy crap, and one rude hand gesture
Violence: not really any
LGBTQ content: None!
July 9, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Do you like a sloooow burn with a MMC bookworm with glasses ? If so, you will love James Brighton!
Beauty and the Bookworm is a fast paced , fun best friend to lovers Romance. Jaime and Daisy are graduating this year which means picking a college and getting accepted and leaving home and making choices . Daisy and Jaime are best friends and Jaime would do anything for Daisy . He’s always been there for her and would do anything for her. “The things I do for you Daisy Carmichael !”
It’s the summer before college and they have a lot to figure out . Jaime is the “ boy next door “ type , good with kids , responsible and his nose is always in a book . He brings a book wherever he goes and is in a book club . Daisy is the artsy type and carries a sketch pad and frequently draws figures with amputated limbs and other gruesome scenes. Last summer Daisy had her heart broken and still has not healed
that.Will she run into him when he returns home from college, will Jaime and Daisy get into the college of his choice ? Will Daisy’s old flame , Dante change his mind about their break up and ask for her back ? Happy Reading
@shes.novel
This is an Arc review from Book Funnel
Thank you to @Sarah Sutton
Do you like a sloooow burn with a MMC bookworm with glasses ? If so, you will love James Brighton!
Beauty and the Bookworm is a fast paced , fun best friend to lovers Romance. Jaime and Daisy are graduating this year which means picking a college and getting accepted and leaving home and making choices . Daisy and Jaime are best friends and Jaime would do anything for Daisy . He’s always been there for her and would do anything for her. “The things I do for you Daisy Carmichael !”
It’s the summer before college and they have a lot to figure out . Jaime is the “ boy next door “ type , good with kids , responsible and his nose is always in a book . He brings a book wherever he goes and is in a book club . Daisy is the artsy type and carries a sketch pad and frequently draws figures with amputated limbs and other gruesome scenes. Last summer Daisy had her heart broken and still has not healed
that.Will she run into him when he returns home from college, will Jaime and Daisy get into the college of his choice ? Will Daisy’s old flame , Dante change his mind about their break up and ask for her back ? Happy Reading
@shes.novel
This is an Arc review from Book Funnel
Thank you to @Sarah Sutton
July 15, 2026
“𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘭𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘢𝘵 𝘮𝘦… 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘸𝘳𝘪𝘵𝘦 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘮𝘦?”
“𝘐 𝘥𝘰 𝘸𝘳𝘪𝘵𝘦 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶. 𝘐 𝘢𝘮 𝘢 𝘮𝘰𝘰𝘯 𝘤𝘢𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘪𝘯 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘰𝘳𝘣𝘪𝘵, 𝘋𝘢𝘪𝘴𝘺 𝘊𝘢𝘳𝘮𝘪𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘦𝘭. 𝘐 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘴𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘴𝘰 𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨 𝘐 𝘥𝘰𝘯’𝘵 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘮𝘣𝘦𝘳 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘪𝘵 𝘧𝘦𝘭𝘵 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘦.”
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Happy Release Day!! @sarahsuttonbooks
Honestly, this book had me feeling all kinds of giddy and swooning 🥹
What I loved most was how it emphasised intimacy through the little things rather than grand gestures or flashy smut. Instead of the typical bad boy/nerd romance, we get Jamie—the best friend and the best friend’s twin brother. A total bookworm who would much rather hide in a corner with a novel, yet somehow manages to be one of the most protective and caring MMCs I’ve read.
Daisy, our FMC, has so much on her shoulders. Not only is she helping raise her four younger siblings, but she often feels more like their parent than their sister. She’s so used to carrying everyone else’s responsibilities that she slowly begins to realise the weight of it all is drowning her.
Her only escape? Drawing.
It isn’t until much later that she realises the comfort character she’s been sketching for years ‘Kit’ is actually a slightly more rugged version of Jamie. And honestly? That says everything about who Jamie is to her. He’s steady, warm, dependable, and makes her feel safe in a way no one else ever has. 🥺
My favourite moments were whenever Jamie read Theo (the youngest sibling) a bedtime story and helped put the other kids to bed. Seeing how much he cared for them, just as much as Daisy did, and watching the children trust him so naturally absolutely melted my heart.
And can we talk about the fact that Jamie carries spare paper around with him just in case Daisy forgets her sketchbook and inspiration suddenly strikes? 😭❤️
It's the little things like that that made me fall completely in love with him.
“𝘐 𝘥𝘰 𝘸𝘳𝘪𝘵𝘦 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶. 𝘐 𝘢𝘮 𝘢 𝘮𝘰𝘰𝘯 𝘤𝘢𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘪𝘯 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘰𝘳𝘣𝘪𝘵, 𝘋𝘢𝘪𝘴𝘺 𝘊𝘢𝘳𝘮𝘪𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘦𝘭. 𝘐 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘴𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘴𝘰 𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨 𝘐 𝘥𝘰𝘯’𝘵 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘮𝘣𝘦𝘳 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘪𝘵 𝘧𝘦𝘭𝘵 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘦.”
—
Happy Release Day!! @sarahsuttonbooks
Honestly, this book had me feeling all kinds of giddy and swooning 🥹
What I loved most was how it emphasised intimacy through the little things rather than grand gestures or flashy smut. Instead of the typical bad boy/nerd romance, we get Jamie—the best friend and the best friend’s twin brother. A total bookworm who would much rather hide in a corner with a novel, yet somehow manages to be one of the most protective and caring MMCs I’ve read.
Daisy, our FMC, has so much on her shoulders. Not only is she helping raise her four younger siblings, but she often feels more like their parent than their sister. She’s so used to carrying everyone else’s responsibilities that she slowly begins to realise the weight of it all is drowning her.
Her only escape? Drawing.
It isn’t until much later that she realises the comfort character she’s been sketching for years ‘Kit’ is actually a slightly more rugged version of Jamie. And honestly? That says everything about who Jamie is to her. He’s steady, warm, dependable, and makes her feel safe in a way no one else ever has. 🥺
My favourite moments were whenever Jamie read Theo (the youngest sibling) a bedtime story and helped put the other kids to bed. Seeing how much he cared for them, just as much as Daisy did, and watching the children trust him so naturally absolutely melted my heart.
And can we talk about the fact that Jamie carries spare paper around with him just in case Daisy forgets her sketchbook and inspiration suddenly strikes? 😭❤️
It's the little things like that that made me fall completely in love with him.
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