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The Emma Special
One hitchhiking fairy. One lawyer late for work. Enter: Confetti.
Emma Glass might pretend to be a princess for birthday parties, but her life is anything but a fairytale. Too bad princess gigs don’t pay into a 401K or provide health insurance—something she desperately needs for an old knee injury.
James Moore’s life changed the day he stopped to give a fairy a ride to book club. Now his high school crush is the new assistant at his law firm, and he’s falling for her all over again.
And when Emma won’t accept his money for knee surgery, he proposes another, totally reasonable solution—marriage.
They couldn’t be more different, and this marriage is supposed to be…convenient. Neither of them is prepared for when it starts to look less like a business agreement and more like happily ever after.
The Emma Special is a Christian, smalltown romance with depth and lots of laughs. The Kiss and Tell series centers around a hilarious group of women who stick by each other through thick and thin and should be read in order.
Emma Glass might pretend to be a princess for birthday parties, but her life is anything but a fairytale. Too bad princess gigs don’t pay into a 401K or provide health insurance—something she desperately needs for an old knee injury.
James Moore’s life changed the day he stopped to give a fairy a ride to book club. Now his high school crush is the new assistant at his law firm, and he’s falling for her all over again.
And when Emma won’t accept his money for knee surgery, he proposes another, totally reasonable solution—marriage.
They couldn’t be more different, and this marriage is supposed to be…convenient. Neither of them is prepared for when it starts to look less like a business agreement and more like happily ever after.
The Emma Special is a Christian, smalltown romance with depth and lots of laughs. The Kiss and Tell series centers around a hilarious group of women who stick by each other through thick and thin and should be read in order.
364 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 2, 2026
About the author
Tasha Hackett
9 books68 followersTasha’s still trying to decide what she wants to be when she grows up. In the meantime, she sings, paints, sews, dances in the kitchen, homeschools the kids, and often forgets to put away the laundry. Tasha writes with hope and humor to encourage and entertain. Her novels demonstrate a vision of romance between flawed characters loved by an unflawed God.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Emma Special - Mandi Blake and Tasha Hackett
5 Stars
Book 1 in the Kiss & Tell Series
Blog Review: https://bookloveramanda.blogspot.com/...
This is a Christian Rom-Com and I ATE THIS UP!!! I loved it so much. Emma and James were the best. What are my immediate feelings? How do I put this into words....I laughed, I cried....I found so much relatability in Emma's life with her mother and their home situation - it hit me unexpectedly and I felt so seen in James' response to her life in that moment.
I also loveeee Marriage of Convenience trope and James was the perfect cinnamon roll guy in this book for that situation, he stepped up and made sure to help Emma no matter what. They had history together and that made it better too when it came to the MOC trope.
Emma's mama was wildddd and her friend group really gave her the courage she needed and encouragement to not let her mama walk all over her. The friendships in this were chef's kiss and the text messages cracked me up!
Loved the co-working bits too, of Emma and James working together at the beginning of the book, love a good workplace romance.
Obviously I am just gushing about this and have no cohesive review LOL But I just cannot recommend this enough, I loved the faith, romance, friendship, depth....just pick it up! My friend Melissa and I read this together so I recommend reading with others too!
This releases October 2nd on KU so be sure to check it out.
Thank you to Mandi and Tasha for sending me an early e-book copy to read for review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
5 Stars
Book 1 in the Kiss & Tell Series
Blog Review: https://bookloveramanda.blogspot.com/...
This is a Christian Rom-Com and I ATE THIS UP!!! I loved it so much. Emma and James were the best. What are my immediate feelings? How do I put this into words....I laughed, I cried....I found so much relatability in Emma's life with her mother and their home situation - it hit me unexpectedly and I felt so seen in James' response to her life in that moment.
I also loveeee Marriage of Convenience trope and James was the perfect cinnamon roll guy in this book for that situation, he stepped up and made sure to help Emma no matter what. They had history together and that made it better too when it came to the MOC trope.
Emma's mama was wildddd and her friend group really gave her the courage she needed and encouragement to not let her mama walk all over her. The friendships in this were chef's kiss and the text messages cracked me up!
Loved the co-working bits too, of Emma and James working together at the beginning of the book, love a good workplace romance.
Obviously I am just gushing about this and have no cohesive review LOL But I just cannot recommend this enough, I loved the faith, romance, friendship, depth....just pick it up! My friend Melissa and I read this together so I recommend reading with others too!
This releases October 2nd on KU so be sure to check it out.
Thank you to Mandi and Tasha for sending me an early e-book copy to read for review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Emma and James are sweet and fun. James is swoony and strong and well... let's just say I would love to live in this world and be their friends. Who wants to start a kiss and tell book club with me???
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Emma Special
By Mandi Blake and Tasha Hacket
The Emma Special by Mandi Blake and Tasha Hacket is a Christian romcom that I adored from page one when the handsome James gave the fairy dressed Emma a ride.
Emma works hard to make ends meet and does an assortment of jobs to pay the bills, but life is a struggle with her knee injury and mom who treats her terribly. Yet Emma is sunshine everywhere she goes.
Emma was James’s high school crush, and when Emma takes a job at his law firm those feelings are renewed and amplified. Things get even more complicated when he offers a marriage of convenience as a solution to provide insurance for her knee surgery.
The set up is perfect for silly and serious moments that propelled the story along while keeping it grounded. One of the highlights was her friends in the kiss and tell book club. They provided her support and it was fun getting to know them. I look forward to reading their stories in this series. The way Faith was woven into the story to supply depth and hope was beautifully done and added so much to the story.
I highly recommend the Emma Special and look forward to reading the other books by these two ladies.
Quotes:
Workplace shenanigans
"Why is your shoe on my desk?"
"Hold, please." She placed him on hold then put the receiver down with no intention of answering.
Within seconds his voice came through the intercom again. "Emma. Why is this tiny metal hair contraption in my coffee cup? And my stapler—" James cut off with laughing. "Did I take all of this from you?
Faith
James sat on the edge of the bed and rubbed the pad of his thumb over her hand. "Do you want me to pray with you?"
Be still her heart. The sweet man wanted to pray with her. Of all the things she'd heard about men from her mother, James was nothing like the rest. Who was this man?
By Mandi Blake and Tasha Hacket
The Emma Special by Mandi Blake and Tasha Hacket is a Christian romcom that I adored from page one when the handsome James gave the fairy dressed Emma a ride.
Emma works hard to make ends meet and does an assortment of jobs to pay the bills, but life is a struggle with her knee injury and mom who treats her terribly. Yet Emma is sunshine everywhere she goes.
Emma was James’s high school crush, and when Emma takes a job at his law firm those feelings are renewed and amplified. Things get even more complicated when he offers a marriage of convenience as a solution to provide insurance for her knee surgery.
The set up is perfect for silly and serious moments that propelled the story along while keeping it grounded. One of the highlights was her friends in the kiss and tell book club. They provided her support and it was fun getting to know them. I look forward to reading their stories in this series. The way Faith was woven into the story to supply depth and hope was beautifully done and added so much to the story.
I highly recommend the Emma Special and look forward to reading the other books by these two ladies.
Quotes:
Workplace shenanigans
"Why is your shoe on my desk?"
"Hold, please." She placed him on hold then put the receiver down with no intention of answering.
Within seconds his voice came through the intercom again. "Emma. Why is this tiny metal hair contraption in my coffee cup? And my stapler—" James cut off with laughing. "Did I take all of this from you?
Faith
James sat on the edge of the bed and rubbed the pad of his thumb over her hand. "Do you want me to pray with you?"
Be still her heart. The sweet man wanted to pray with her. Of all the things she'd heard about men from her mother, James was nothing like the rest. Who was this man?
Review of advance copy received from Author
Rom-com is not a genre that I normally read but I decided to give it a try. There is lots of humor from Emma and The Book Club girls. They have a strong bond forged over the years, and they would do anything for each other.
Emma is such a sweetheart but her heart has been so beat down by her mother’s harsh words and mean spirit. Emma can’t see how much she is worth to God or others. That was sad to me; I was glad when James stepped in and took the challenge to show her different.
James is a great guy, so smitten with her. They make great friends, but he falls much faster than her. Emma is a little clueless because of her mother’s example on love and kindness.
I enjoyed their banter and their love story, though I do give a word of warning. There are times where marital intimacy is mentioned using words/schemes/feelings/discussions (just people speaking plainly); nothing rude or graphic, just not what I would feel comfortable letting my teen girls read. So I recommend this novel to a slightly more mature audience.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and these are my voluntary and honest opinions. I was not required to leave a positive review.
Emma is such a sweetheart but her heart has been so beat down by her mother’s harsh words and mean spirit. Emma can’t see how much she is worth to God or others. That was sad to me; I was glad when James stepped in and took the challenge to show her different.
James is a great guy, so smitten with her. They make great friends, but he falls much faster than her. Emma is a little clueless because of her mother’s example on love and kindness.
I enjoyed their banter and their love story, though I do give a word of warning. There are times where marital intimacy is mentioned using words/schemes/feelings/discussions (just people speaking plainly); nothing rude or graphic, just not what I would feel comfortable letting my teen girls read. So I recommend this novel to a slightly more mature audience.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and these are my voluntary and honest opinions. I was not required to leave a positive review.
September 18, 2026
This was such a joy to read.
Emma’s bubbly personality was infectious and James was such a sweet cinnamon roll green flag MMC.
Emma’s life was not all glitter and confetti, but she pushed through with her head held high always looking for the bright side. James was such a supporter and encourager, never making her feel less than because she’s already been told that from her mom. He helps her see her worth through God’s eyes.
“You are a child of God. Heir to the throne. You are of infinite worth.”
How my heart broke for her regarding her mother. That woman is a piece of work! Emma’s ray of sunshine personality hid the darkness and scars left by her mother.
“She lived two lives. One where her friends supported her and encouraged her, and one where her mother made her almost believe she was too stupid to live.”
“Her mother’s words bruised her on the inside, and it was tough to show people the scars when they were invisible.”
The balance between the heavier and sweet was perfect with faith elements woven in.
Her friends were such a fun group to get to know and I can’t wait for more!
Thank you to Mandi Blake for the copy. All opinions are my own.
Emma’s bubbly personality was infectious and James was such a sweet cinnamon roll green flag MMC.
Emma’s life was not all glitter and confetti, but she pushed through with her head held high always looking for the bright side. James was such a supporter and encourager, never making her feel less than because she’s already been told that from her mom. He helps her see her worth through God’s eyes.
“You are a child of God. Heir to the throne. You are of infinite worth.”
How my heart broke for her regarding her mother. That woman is a piece of work! Emma’s ray of sunshine personality hid the darkness and scars left by her mother.
“She lived two lives. One where her friends supported her and encouraged her, and one where her mother made her almost believe she was too stupid to live.”
“Her mother’s words bruised her on the inside, and it was tough to show people the scars when they were invisible.”
The balance between the heavier and sweet was perfect with faith elements woven in.
Her friends were such a fun group to get to know and I can’t wait for more!
Thank you to Mandi Blake for the copy. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
LOL RomCom! So fun!! Emma is a hot mess! She loves everyone and works hard, but grew up on the other side of the tracks. She has more baggage than an airport. She loves life and is happy with her 3 best friends and the Kiss and Tell Book Club. Emma finally gets a "real" job as a receptionist at a law firm. James was ahead of her in school, but loved the life and fun that was always around Emma. As they get to know each other at the office, they become good friends. James is an attorney and feels that he is too much of a geek for someone as vibrant as Emma. When Emma needs surgery for a knee injury, he suggests a marriage of convenience. Such a fun and funny book. A great theme of being worthy of love regardless of how or where you grew up.
September 28, 2026
☕️Quote☕️
He stood behind her, and with her head resting on the back of the chair she had a flash thought of Spiderman hanging upside down in the rain. “I always wondered what an upside-down kiss would feel like.”
James held his smile. “Might be fun.”
Yep. Her insides were officially on fire. “Yeah,” she answered as if he’d asked if she liked ketchup with her fries.
“Probably shouldn’t try it out at work.”
“That wouldn’t be good for my resume,” she added breathlessly.
“Mine either.”
☕️My Thoughts☕️
I went into this book being in a book funk after finishing a beloved fantasy series and this book was the book that brought me right out of it.
I quickly fell in love with Emma she was sweet, charming, and had me giggling so much. James was just as sweet and has secretly loved Emma since high school. I loved seeing him from the beginning secretly loving everything about Emma. He was there helping her whenever she needed it.
I thought the marriage of convenience was done so unique in this book with him proposing it when she hurt her already bad knee to the point where she needed to have surgery to fix it but she didn’t have insurance because of the types of different jobs she does. So he proposes so he can add her to his insurance.
I loved the kiss & tell bookclub and all of the girls and can’t wait to see each of them get their own book and there is certain character that looks like their book is gonna be a marriage in trouble trope and I’m always wanting more of those. I love that trope and with it being a Christian romcom has me excited.
Overall I loved Mandi Blake’s first romcom so much! I also need to check out more of Tasha Hackett’s books because this was so good! It had all the heartfelt faith that you see in Mandy’s contemporary Christian romance and I loved that so much! Not only did I love this book but I’m excited for the entire series!! I highly recommend checking out this book if you love books with faith and praying included, a green flag mmc, marriage of convenience, and a bookclub that feels like a found family!
☕️Thank you so much Mandy Blake and Tasha Hackett for sending me an e-arc to read. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
He stood behind her, and with her head resting on the back of the chair she had a flash thought of Spiderman hanging upside down in the rain. “I always wondered what an upside-down kiss would feel like.”
James held his smile. “Might be fun.”
Yep. Her insides were officially on fire. “Yeah,” she answered as if he’d asked if she liked ketchup with her fries.
“Probably shouldn’t try it out at work.”
“That wouldn’t be good for my resume,” she added breathlessly.
“Mine either.”
☕️My Thoughts☕️
I went into this book being in a book funk after finishing a beloved fantasy series and this book was the book that brought me right out of it.
I quickly fell in love with Emma she was sweet, charming, and had me giggling so much. James was just as sweet and has secretly loved Emma since high school. I loved seeing him from the beginning secretly loving everything about Emma. He was there helping her whenever she needed it.
I thought the marriage of convenience was done so unique in this book with him proposing it when she hurt her already bad knee to the point where she needed to have surgery to fix it but she didn’t have insurance because of the types of different jobs she does. So he proposes so he can add her to his insurance.
I loved the kiss & tell bookclub and all of the girls and can’t wait to see each of them get their own book and there is certain character that looks like their book is gonna be a marriage in trouble trope and I’m always wanting more of those. I love that trope and with it being a Christian romcom has me excited.
Overall I loved Mandi Blake’s first romcom so much! I also need to check out more of Tasha Hackett’s books because this was so good! It had all the heartfelt faith that you see in Mandy’s contemporary Christian romance and I loved that so much! Not only did I love this book but I’m excited for the entire series!! I highly recommend checking out this book if you love books with faith and praying included, a green flag mmc, marriage of convenience, and a bookclub that feels like a found family!
☕️Thank you so much Mandy Blake and Tasha Hackett for sending me an e-arc to read. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 3, 2026
Read it all in one day... once I started it, I did not want to stop!
Emma's busy as can be with nonstop miscellaneous jobs just to get by. But as her finances get even more strapped, she takes a job at James law firm. James and Emma have history he remembers, given she was his high school crush. But she doesn't remember him. As they work together a friendship blossoms between them. But when life takes another turn for Emma, James is determined to be there for her... even if it means as her husband!!!
Gosh I loved these two so much. And my goodness, was James not the most swoony man! Lol! But truthfully their friendship and faith were the highlights. Just as the feelings for each other ramped up I could not have been more invested! I cannot wait for book 2 now in this series!
Emma's busy as can be with nonstop miscellaneous jobs just to get by. But as her finances get even more strapped, she takes a job at James law firm. James and Emma have history he remembers, given she was his high school crush. But she doesn't remember him. As they work together a friendship blossoms between them. But when life takes another turn for Emma, James is determined to be there for her... even if it means as her husband!!!
Gosh I loved these two so much. And my goodness, was James not the most swoony man! Lol! But truthfully their friendship and faith were the highlights. Just as the feelings for each other ramped up I could not have been more invested! I cannot wait for book 2 now in this series!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely adore James & Emma's feisty, sweet, caring, fun, loving, hopeful, swoony happily ever after!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Tropes:
☕️ Christian Romance
☕️ He Falls First
☕️ Workplace Flirting 😊
☕️ Fake Dating
☕️ Marriage of Convenience
What a cute, fun, and witty story. I had so much fun reading this. I’ve read Mandi before. As a matter of fact, I’ve read all of Mandi’s books and love them. But this is the first time she pairs with a co-author and it was amazing. This sweet Christian Rom-Com had me giddy from page one to the last page.
Emma is a dress up, pixie fairy, for girls birthday parities. She’s a dog walker, and even cleans houses. Money is tight for Emma, but she’s saving up for her knee surgery. After a party, she gets into a stranger’s car, who turns out to be not a stranger. He then turns into her boss when she applies for a receptionist position at his law firm. James has had a crush on Emma since high school. She just doesn’t remember him. Their flirting is so cute and adorable, even funny at times. To help her get her knee surgery, James suggests, they get married. He loves her, wants to help her, and hopes she one day feels for him, what he feels for her. Love.
Adorable you guys. One of the many things I loved about this book is that as a mom of a teen girl, sometimes it’s hard to find books she and her friends can read. This is definitely a book they can read. If I was giddy, I can already see my daughter’s bff. She loves romance.
I loved these characters. James and Emma love Jesus and want to make sure they are following his will. And when times get tough, they have an awesome support system of friends that keep them focused on their faith and doing what’s right!
Beautiful book @ and @
October 9, 2026
Oh, I loved Emma! She was just a bright light in this book but she was also struggling to hold herself up. James was also the sweetest and really tried to support Emma. The Emma Special is the first book in Mandi Blake and Tasha Hackett’s new series, Kiss and Tell. I was so excited to see that Mandie Blake was going to write a romcom and it was so cute!
I felt so bad for Emma. She was really positive but she was definitely struggling to find her place. I loved how she leaned on her faith and friends as she navigated the challenges she was facing. Emma had to learn to find her identity in Christ and accept help. James was also a sweetheart. He had fallen hard for Emma but he didn’t want to overwhelm her. I loved how he wanted to protect her and provide for her. James had to learn what it looked like to care for Emma and how to prioritize the important things in life.
The romance was perfect! I loved the progression of their relationship. They started as friends and grew to more as they worked together. Marriage of convenience is my favorite trope and it was fun to read about James and Emma falling in love. I love the way that faith was woven into this story. Emma’s friends were so fun and I love the way that they supported her.
I adored this book and I would totally recommend it! I loved the characters and the story. I am so excited for the rest of the books in this series. I know that they are going to be amazing. The Emma Special is a clean romantic comedy
What I loved:
Found family
Marriage of convenience
He takes care of her
Good communication
Faith based
Whimsy
I received a complimentary copy
I felt so bad for Emma. She was really positive but she was definitely struggling to find her place. I loved how she leaned on her faith and friends as she navigated the challenges she was facing. Emma had to learn to find her identity in Christ and accept help. James was also a sweetheart. He had fallen hard for Emma but he didn’t want to overwhelm her. I loved how he wanted to protect her and provide for her. James had to learn what it looked like to care for Emma and how to prioritize the important things in life.
The romance was perfect! I loved the progression of their relationship. They started as friends and grew to more as they worked together. Marriage of convenience is my favorite trope and it was fun to read about James and Emma falling in love. I love the way that faith was woven into this story. Emma’s friends were so fun and I love the way that they supported her.
I adored this book and I would totally recommend it! I loved the characters and the story. I am so excited for the rest of the books in this series. I know that they are going to be amazing. The Emma Special is a clean romantic comedy
What I loved:
Found family
Marriage of convenience
He takes care of her
Good communication
Faith based
Whimsy
I received a complimentary copy
October 5, 2026
4.5 stars
I really enjoyed this no spice Christian romantic comedy. I've read a lot of books by Mandi Blake before, but this is the first I've read by Tasha Hackett. This book is definitely a strong romcom. It is fun and flirty with touches of a hidden identity in an "ugly duckling high schooler MMC" turned hotshot lawyer. There is some exaggerated humor and a few immature, childish antics on the part of our FMC that rubbed me the wrong way. However, with so much packed into this romance - an injured heroine, workplace antics, a fake relationship, and then a marriage of convenience? This book held my attention the whole way through and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I'm excited to read about the other members of the "Kiss and Tell" book club and see them get their own HEAs. The romance is just kisses, intimacy level 1. 4.5 stars rounded up to 5.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I really enjoyed this no spice Christian romantic comedy. I've read a lot of books by Mandi Blake before, but this is the first I've read by Tasha Hackett. This book is definitely a strong romcom. It is fun and flirty with touches of a hidden identity in an "ugly duckling high schooler MMC" turned hotshot lawyer. There is some exaggerated humor and a few immature, childish antics on the part of our FMC that rubbed me the wrong way. However, with so much packed into this romance - an injured heroine, workplace antics, a fake relationship, and then a marriage of convenience? This book held my attention the whole way through and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I'm excited to read about the other members of the "Kiss and Tell" book club and see them get their own HEAs. The romance is just kisses, intimacy level 1. 4.5 stars rounded up to 5.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Read
September 20, 2026Emma does all kinds of jobs to pay her bill. Housesitting, dog walking, a fairy or princess for girls birthday parties, anything where she can earn money. She left a birthday party in her fairy outfit, she doesn’t have a car no money to get one, she’s walking fast or running to get to the Kiss a Tell Book Club, unfortunately in high school she hurt her knee no Insurance can’t get the knee fixed. This car was coming. She decided to hit a ride if they would stop. His name is James. In high school James had a big crush on Emma, but Emma could not see him for what he was. Kinda nerdy. James gave him a hard time about getting into a car with a stranger. As she was leaving the car, her pixie dust pouch exploded with pixie glitter going everywhere. I highly recommend this good clean Christian book. In parts it is so funny. You were laughing so hard and can imagine yourself being in Emma’s place.
September 23, 2026
I loved the story of Emma and James. She was an actress as a freshman in high school and he was a senior acting as the lights man. She never knew about his crush on her. She has worked as a dog walker, princess for parties and any other paying job to pay her bills. Emma's outlet is her friends in their book club and they help her pay her bills and sort out her feelings. Emma's mother is the downer in the story and she uses Emma every time she can. James is now a lawyer and sees a hitchhiker dressed as a fairy and picks her up. It turns out to be Emma. And so their story continues. Emma gets hired as a receptionist for his law firm. Emma has a bad knee that she is hoping to get fixed when she gets insurance with her new job. James is thrilled that she is there to bring light and joy to his dull life. But when Emma sends the wrong notes to the opposing lawyer she loses her job. He is crazy about her and when she injures her knee again he asks her to get married so he can take care of her and help her to get the knee surgery she needs. Their life is crazy as Emma and her book club occupy her time and James fears she may never truly love him. But through her book club friends Emma sees the love that James offers her and how he completes her. Great read and I look forward to book #2 ( The Emma Special was Emma's signature coffee)
Review of advance copy received from Author
These characters are a great mixture of emotions, feelings, and so much more! While Emma and James may be main characters - all the events - surgery, muddy stake-out, flour in/on kitchen, "new" furniture, marriage and more shenanigans include Kiss & Tell Book club with Allison, Katie, and Summer, along with crasher Daniel. I love Jim and Sharon and of course Kenna and her mama Lottie - who I hope to read more about and her future.
Looking forward to more books for each of the girls and yes, maybe even Daniel.
Looking forward to more books for each of the girls and yes, maybe even Daniel.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is my voluntary review of a copy I was given.
Emma and James have completely different family lives, and the things they learned about love and marriage as children affect them into adulthood.
I loved watching them come to understand each other and to open up enough to confess their love for each other.
The story has quite a few fun and funny scenes as well as a few heart-felt ones. The faith element is strong but focuses on the biblical ideas of love and marriage and our intrinsic worth.
Emma and James have completely different family lives, and the things they learned about love and marriage as children affect them into adulthood.
I loved watching them come to understand each other and to open up enough to confess their love for each other.
The story has quite a few fun and funny scenes as well as a few heart-felt ones. The faith element is strong but focuses on the biblical ideas of love and marriage and our intrinsic worth.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Tell me more! The second I read the premise of The Emma Special, I was intrigued because this is SO up my alley. And yep, I really enjoyed it! It was sweet, funny, and had the perfect amount of heart and swoony moments without feeling like it was trying too hard.
I also just loved this group of characters. Their friendships and the world around them made the story that much more fun, and honestly, can I join their friend group? Because I would LOVE to be friends with these people. Such a sweet, feel-good read with a storyline that kept me invested the whole way through.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I also just loved this group of characters. Their friendships and the world around them made the story that much more fun, and honestly, can I join their friend group? Because I would LOVE to be friends with these people. Such a sweet, feel-good read with a storyline that kept me invested the whole way through.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh, my!! This book was so good and was laugh-out-loud funny! The book still had loads of depth, as James and Emma both had to put some things from their pasts behind them. Emma, especially, had a lot to work through before she felt worthy to be loved. The women in the Kiss and Tell Book Club were very loyal to each other and were there for Emma and each other all the way through the book. The authors did a marvelous job with this book. It was such a good read, and I loved James and Emma together!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Loved this book!!! Emma and James belong together but will she finally see that? She brings so much joy to others but just can't see how her worth or how much she is loved. There were many times my heart hurt for her and him and just as many that I laughed out loud especially with her friends. Lots of witty banter and friends including Daniel that I would love to be a part of. i cannot wait for the next book. Hope the authors write quickly.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Loved James and Emma's story!! James had a secret crush on Emma his senior year of high school, when she was a freshman. Emma didn't notice him back then. Now, she's noticed, thinks his a great looking guy. When Emma starts working at the same law firm as James, he's drawn to her even more. When James finds out that Emma has needed surgery on her knee since high school, and is still waiting since she doesn't have insurance, he decides he needs to step up. James is hopeful his idea of a marriage of convenience will become a real marriage, but Emma's not so sure. She feels unworthy of the love James has shown, just as she's unworthy of the love she receives from her girlfriends. That is, until she finally has an epiphany moment, and realizes just why she's behaving the way she is, and decides that she's done living like that. Such a good book! It did leave me with some questions, though, which I won't put here, as I don't want to give away any spoilers!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, wasn't required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, wasn't required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.
September 24, 2026
This was ADORABLE. I absolutely loved all of it. I became hooked from the moment I started reading. Emma is such a joyful, hilarious & sunshine woman. You can’t help but adore her. And James is just a walking green flag. He’s so sweet to Emma & I ate up all the subtle flirty moments! They had such sweet chemistry and I loved the little pranks they played. It was a SLOW burn but you get so many adorable moments between the two of them and you’re just itching for them to FINALLY KISS. 🤗
The deeper parts of the book were beautiful as well. The way they both openly loved God, and accepted him into their relationship without question. We watch Emma go through struggles of feeling less than, and feeling like she has failed after mistakes have been made. It was really tender to watch those around her help her to see that wasn’t true. One mistake doesn’t equal failure, and that her worth was found through God.
The deeper parts of the book were beautiful as well. The way they both openly loved God, and accepted him into their relationship without question. We watch Emma go through struggles of feeling less than, and feeling like she has failed after mistakes have been made. It was really tender to watch those around her help her to see that wasn’t true. One mistake doesn’t equal failure, and that her worth was found through God.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review of advanced copy from author -
The Emma Special was one of the cutest rom-coms I have ever read. I laughed out loud so many times. Emma and James were adorable. Their relationship felt so natural.
It contains one of my favorite tropes so that helped of course!
Did i mention the side characters?! I love them as well! I absolutely can not wait to read more.
This book is pure perfection. Mandi and Tasha - amazing job!
The Emma Special was one of the cutest rom-coms I have ever read. I laughed out loud so many times. Emma and James were adorable. Their relationship felt so natural.
It contains one of my favorite tropes so that helped of course!
Did i mention the side characters?! I love them as well! I absolutely can not wait to read more.
This book is pure perfection. Mandi and Tasha - amazing job!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is a delightful romance with Emma who is pure sunshine despite her desperate circumstances and James who is a reserved workaholic who also happens to have had a secret high school crush on Emma. This marriage of convenience romance has humour drama, friendship and romance and puts a smile on your face from beginning to end. A truly delightful romance.
Review of advance copy received from Author
What a treasure to read a book where your heart feels a bit lighter and you feel seen at the same time. The Emma Special is a joyous story filled with themes of finding your worth in God, leaning on your community, and healing through time. Emma is a character much more relatable than ones I’ve read lately, at least for me. Her struggles with inner dialogue and self-worth are honest and true to someone who has been told otherwise. But oh, how swoony to find a man like James who does nothing but value her from the start. His pining and interest in Emma was incredibly sweet. This story builds such a great start to the series and I look forward to reading the next one!
Thank you to the authors for my early copy.
Thank you to the authors for my early copy.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A sweet Christian romcom story! I especially enjoyed the friend group dynamics!
I received an ARC from the authors and all opinions are my own.
I received an ARC from the authors and all opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
“Love doesn’t keep a record of wrongs… It clings to what is good” Emma and James’s story is sweet, funny, full of friendship, faith, trust and so much more. She needs to open her heart to love and James is set to help her love herself and him forever. Great reading. Looking forward to the next book I the series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I enjoyed this story. There are funny parts, sad parts and growing parts. I love the tight knit group of girlfriends Emma has and their faith which they use to support one another. It all come together to make a fun well-written story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is such a sweet, funny story. I loved James, he was so fun to read. The antics and banter was so fun and I loved the depth and how the gospel was woven in. I am excited for more. :)
September 18, 2026
James and Emma make a fun and sweet duo! I enjoyed their banter, and their obvious attraction to each other! Emma is a fun loving girl while James has more of a serious side and I liked seeing each bring something different to the relationship and have it work well!
The kiss and tell book club friends are a great addition to the story- these girls are solid in their friendships and stand by each other, so nice to see! I think the stories of the other girls will be great to read!
What a cute, fun read- I really enjoyed this one! Looking forward to read more in this series from Mandi and Tasha!
October 19, 2026
Rate: 4.5/5
Genre: Christian Romantic Comedy
🚨TW: mentions about being used by her mother, parental neglect, long overdue knee pain, anxieties
Read it if you like:
🧚♀️Dual character story
👨⚖️ High School theatre mates to friends to lovers
🧚♀️Marriage of Convenience
👨⚖️ He falls first and hard
🧚♀️ Faith Filled
👨⚖️ Friendship
Favourite Moments
🧚♀️ They first met (can’t spoil it)
👨⚖️Their banters, teasing and also flirting.
🧚♀️The cute little pranks that she had for him. (can’t spoil it)
👨⚖️ Him trying to do whatever he can to help her.
🧚♀️ They opened up to each other and show their vulnerable side to each other.
👨⚖️ They had bible study together and also, he prayed for her.
🧚♀️ The Kiss and Tell Bookclub and Daniel (can’t spoil it)
(lots more)
Swoony Moments
👨⚖️ He loves, cares and protects her.
👨⚖️ He falls first and hard.
👨⚖️ He makes sure that she is alright and always there for her when she needs him.
👨⚖️ Him trying to win her heart.
👨⚖️ Him doing whatever he can to help her.
👨⚖️ Him showing that she is worth it and deserved to be loved.
Synopsis
Emma
A woman who works a few jobs. Dress up Disney Princesses or Pixies, dog walker and cleaning and trying to survive on her own with a crazy knee injury that she had during her high school years which her mom just ignored and she had no money to go and seek a specialist.
James
A man who is secretly had a crush on Emma during their high school days. He is a lawyer and is doing his best to be the lawyer that his dad will be proud of.
They both met when she needs a ride and from then on, they became fast friends. Things get interesting when she works at his workplace. As they got to know each other, he found out about her knee injury, he worried about her and wants to help her but she refuses his help. And what a proposal? Will she accept it? Read The Emma Special to find out!!
Review
Loving this marriage of convenience trope so much.
James is just so so sweeeeeetttt to her. This story is just so cutee…. And him trying to win her love can make your heart just want to root for him. And love the fact that he always depends on God whenever he doesn’t know what to do.
Can see Emma character grow too and her being in James’ life more colourful instead of being stressful all the time. The little cute pranks (can’t spoil it) and the coffee she brews for him made his day. She is struggling as she had a lot of different kind of jobs and also have to deal with her mother who always degrading her and treated her like a tool instead of a daughter. But James came into her life it at times she felt that he is too good for her however as she gets to know him and also having surrounded with people who love her, she began to realised things that she never knew and felt before.
Love that whenever they are feeling anxious or don’t know what to do. James will often lead them in prayer and also at times have bible study together and depending on God. Their banters, teasing and flirting are just so cute and also they are just like teenagers at times.
Their friends were always there for them whenever they need advice on things and also a shoulder to cry on whenever they needed to or to talk to. His mother is just so sweet too and adored Emma so much. Enjoyed the moments with the Kiss and Tell bookclub too. And Daniel is kind of a scene stealer at times. Hehehe…
This story made me smile, laugh, swoon and also really want to be part of the Kiss and Tell bookclub and also helping them to come up with ideas and anything that they are planning for hehe…
What I learn?
Love is not to be earn. Love is freely given. Just like God’s unfailing love. He sent Jesus just to die for our sins. We don’t need to do things to earn Jesus’ love but instead is to believe Him and have faith in Him. In the world, humans love can change but God’s love is never changing. He loves us before the world even began. He is already waiting for us to come to Him.
And also learn how to set boundaries and distance because at times people might used your kindness and kind of take it for granted, setting limits or distancing yourself from toxic behaviour is a form of wisdom, not lack of love. Yes, we might feel that it is hard because they need our help but it can make you feel drained and might even cause your mental health.
And also pray for them and ask God to take care of them and yourself too because you love them so much but you are also a human that had limits you can’t be there for them all the time because you have your own struggles and life too. Remind yourself that God doesn’t expect you to fix everything. Lean on to God for wisdom and strength of what to do in this kind of situation.
And God also sends people around you to let you feel cared and love. Just like Emma had her friends and also James who cares and love her and lending a helping hand and also the advices she needs. Always remember that you are not alone.
This is the first book of the Kiss & Tell series.
I was gifted complimentary ARC. All opinions are my own. Thanks @mandi_blake_author and @tashahackett.author for the ARC.
You can purchase this book on Amazon and it is available in KU.
Check out their books too. You can purchase their books on Amazon and it is available to read on KU too.
Genre: Christian Romantic Comedy
🚨TW: mentions about being used by her mother, parental neglect, long overdue knee pain, anxieties
Read it if you like:
🧚♀️Dual character story
👨⚖️ High School theatre mates to friends to lovers
🧚♀️Marriage of Convenience
👨⚖️ He falls first and hard
🧚♀️ Faith Filled
👨⚖️ Friendship
Favourite Moments
🧚♀️ They first met (can’t spoil it)
👨⚖️Their banters, teasing and also flirting.
🧚♀️The cute little pranks that she had for him. (can’t spoil it)
👨⚖️ Him trying to do whatever he can to help her.
🧚♀️ They opened up to each other and show their vulnerable side to each other.
👨⚖️ They had bible study together and also, he prayed for her.
🧚♀️ The Kiss and Tell Bookclub and Daniel (can’t spoil it)
(lots more)
Swoony Moments
👨⚖️ He loves, cares and protects her.
👨⚖️ He falls first and hard.
👨⚖️ He makes sure that she is alright and always there for her when she needs him.
👨⚖️ Him trying to win her heart.
👨⚖️ Him doing whatever he can to help her.
👨⚖️ Him showing that she is worth it and deserved to be loved.
Synopsis
Emma
A woman who works a few jobs. Dress up Disney Princesses or Pixies, dog walker and cleaning and trying to survive on her own with a crazy knee injury that she had during her high school years which her mom just ignored and she had no money to go and seek a specialist.
James
A man who is secretly had a crush on Emma during their high school days. He is a lawyer and is doing his best to be the lawyer that his dad will be proud of.
They both met when she needs a ride and from then on, they became fast friends. Things get interesting when she works at his workplace. As they got to know each other, he found out about her knee injury, he worried about her and wants to help her but she refuses his help. And what a proposal? Will she accept it? Read The Emma Special to find out!!
Review
Loving this marriage of convenience trope so much.
James is just so so sweeeeeetttt to her. This story is just so cutee…. And him trying to win her love can make your heart just want to root for him. And love the fact that he always depends on God whenever he doesn’t know what to do.
Can see Emma character grow too and her being in James’ life more colourful instead of being stressful all the time. The little cute pranks (can’t spoil it) and the coffee she brews for him made his day. She is struggling as she had a lot of different kind of jobs and also have to deal with her mother who always degrading her and treated her like a tool instead of a daughter. But James came into her life it at times she felt that he is too good for her however as she gets to know him and also having surrounded with people who love her, she began to realised things that she never knew and felt before.
Love that whenever they are feeling anxious or don’t know what to do. James will often lead them in prayer and also at times have bible study together and depending on God. Their banters, teasing and flirting are just so cute and also they are just like teenagers at times.
Their friends were always there for them whenever they need advice on things and also a shoulder to cry on whenever they needed to or to talk to. His mother is just so sweet too and adored Emma so much. Enjoyed the moments with the Kiss and Tell bookclub too. And Daniel is kind of a scene stealer at times. Hehehe…
This story made me smile, laugh, swoon and also really want to be part of the Kiss and Tell bookclub and also helping them to come up with ideas and anything that they are planning for hehe…
What I learn?
Love is not to be earn. Love is freely given. Just like God’s unfailing love. He sent Jesus just to die for our sins. We don’t need to do things to earn Jesus’ love but instead is to believe Him and have faith in Him. In the world, humans love can change but God’s love is never changing. He loves us before the world even began. He is already waiting for us to come to Him.
And also learn how to set boundaries and distance because at times people might used your kindness and kind of take it for granted, setting limits or distancing yourself from toxic behaviour is a form of wisdom, not lack of love. Yes, we might feel that it is hard because they need our help but it can make you feel drained and might even cause your mental health.
And also pray for them and ask God to take care of them and yourself too because you love them so much but you are also a human that had limits you can’t be there for them all the time because you have your own struggles and life too. Remind yourself that God doesn’t expect you to fix everything. Lean on to God for wisdom and strength of what to do in this kind of situation.
And God also sends people around you to let you feel cared and love. Just like Emma had her friends and also James who cares and love her and lending a helping hand and also the advices she needs. Always remember that you are not alone.
This is the first book of the Kiss & Tell series.
I was gifted complimentary ARC. All opinions are my own. Thanks @mandi_blake_author and @tashahackett.author for the ARC.
You can purchase this book on Amazon and it is available in KU.
Check out their books too. You can purchase their books on Amazon and it is available to read on KU too.
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