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The AM Show
Would you give up your lifelong dream for a shot at everlasting love?
Amanda Morgan is a morning show host with a fierce reputation, but a bitter divorce has left her feeling all washed up. Being mistaken for a grandmother at her own son’s wedding has her teetering on the edge—until a stranger at the reception rocks her world.
Dakota Washington is a young reporter who is flabbergasted to meet her career idol—and biggest celebrity crush—at a friend’s out-of-town wedding. Their night together goes beyond her wildest fantasies. And she’s had a lot of them.
They were never meant to see each other again, until fate steps in, landing Dakota a job at Amanda’s network in New York City. Thanks to a draconian employment contract, the network could fire them on the spot for getting romantically involved. They agree to keep their distance and never breathe a word about their past.
Easy, right?
Except every time they’re alone for more than five minutes, they end up having sex. Soon, it’s obvious this is more than a fling, leaving them with an unthinkable choice: give up the careers they’ve poured their souls into or lose the love of a lifetime. Which one will be easier to walk away from?
If you enjoy scorching celebrity age-gap romance with a touch of heart, don’t miss the latest collaboration of Miranda MacLeod and TB Markinson.
Amanda Morgan is a morning show host with a fierce reputation, but a bitter divorce has left her feeling all washed up. Being mistaken for a grandmother at her own son’s wedding has her teetering on the edge—until a stranger at the reception rocks her world.
Dakota Washington is a young reporter who is flabbergasted to meet her career idol—and biggest celebrity crush—at a friend’s out-of-town wedding. Their night together goes beyond her wildest fantasies. And she’s had a lot of them.
They were never meant to see each other again, until fate steps in, landing Dakota a job at Amanda’s network in New York City. Thanks to a draconian employment contract, the network could fire them on the spot for getting romantically involved. They agree to keep their distance and never breathe a word about their past.
Easy, right?
Except every time they’re alone for more than five minutes, they end up having sex. Soon, it’s obvious this is more than a fling, leaving them with an unthinkable choice: give up the careers they’ve poured their souls into or lose the love of a lifetime. Which one will be easier to walk away from?
If you enjoy scorching celebrity age-gap romance with a touch of heart, don’t miss the latest collaboration of Miranda MacLeod and TB Markinson.
347 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 26, 2021
267 people are currently reading
946 people want to read
About the author
T.B. Markinson
70 books1,150 followersT. B. Markinson is an American writer, living in England. When she isn't writing, she’s traveling the world, watching sports on the telly, visiting pubs in England, or taking the dog for a walk. Not necessarily in that order.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 247 reviews
October 24, 2021
4.5⭐
T.B. Markinson and Miranda MacLeod are a cool team, I love their entertaining stories with lovable, imperfect but humorous characters that you just have to like. They always gave me a happy feeling, and make me smile and laugh.
Amanda Morgan has been the face of New York's The AM Show for many years, the morning TV show that presents serious news to viewers in an entertaining way. Her goal is to eventually, if she had her way, now, take over the evening news show that she has been promised for years. But the patriarchal patterns of the old boys' club on the carpet floor had successfully ignored her until now. And if the rumors are true, she's now even to be cut altogether. But Amanda vows not to leave the field without a fight. And with help from an unexpected side, they show what woman power means.
Dakota is also in the morning TV show business, but far from New York as the face of the Cock-a-doodle Rooster Report, sort of a country AM show cousin. Her biggest and only idol is Amanda Morgan.
Amanda spends a hot night with Dakota, not knowing that Dakota is in the same business as her and knows exactly who Amanda is. After she finds out, she feels betrayed and swears revenge, living up to her reputation as the Dragon Lady. But the news universe has other ideas, fate and tragedy take the wheel in hand and bring the two women on the same orbit - it takes good navigation skills that it does not come to a fatal collision.
What I love most about these authors' stories are the characters. They are wonderfully imperfect. They are always very well defined and have a convincing background that you learn bit by bit. For example, Amanda is always the perfect host of the Morning Show, who also helps her show partner cover his age-related mistakes. But in her private life, she has to fight with her shortcomings and doubts, which nobody suspects. Dakota has her quirks and flaws too, she trips herself up from time to time and is sometimes adorable speechless when she has to work with Amanda. She also has a tendency to keep putting her foot in her mouth.
The chemistry between the two was undeniable and the inner monologues they had for or against a relationship were heartwarming and also hilarious. The story has a good flow and as always when the two authors work together, there is a lot of humor. A little mystery, conflict, and jealousy among work colleagues bring tension to the story. And sometimes you get help from an unexpected side, and the strength of women and their abilities are all you need to achieve the goal.
One of my favorite phrases was: «The roaches were so big I would've made them pay rent, but I was afraid they'd gang up on me and take me down»
A funny, age-gap, and celebrity story where women can escape reality for a few hours.
My rating 4.5 stars
Thanks to the authors for receiving an ARC for an honest review.
T.B. Markinson and Miranda MacLeod are a cool team, I love their entertaining stories with lovable, imperfect but humorous characters that you just have to like. They always gave me a happy feeling, and make me smile and laugh.
Amanda Morgan has been the face of New York's The AM Show for many years, the morning TV show that presents serious news to viewers in an entertaining way. Her goal is to eventually, if she had her way, now, take over the evening news show that she has been promised for years. But the patriarchal patterns of the old boys' club on the carpet floor had successfully ignored her until now. And if the rumors are true, she's now even to be cut altogether. But Amanda vows not to leave the field without a fight. And with help from an unexpected side, they show what woman power means.
Dakota is also in the morning TV show business, but far from New York as the face of the Cock-a-doodle Rooster Report, sort of a country AM show cousin. Her biggest and only idol is Amanda Morgan.
Amanda spends a hot night with Dakota, not knowing that Dakota is in the same business as her and knows exactly who Amanda is. After she finds out, she feels betrayed and swears revenge, living up to her reputation as the Dragon Lady. But the news universe has other ideas, fate and tragedy take the wheel in hand and bring the two women on the same orbit - it takes good navigation skills that it does not come to a fatal collision.
What I love most about these authors' stories are the characters. They are wonderfully imperfect. They are always very well defined and have a convincing background that you learn bit by bit. For example, Amanda is always the perfect host of the Morning Show, who also helps her show partner cover his age-related mistakes. But in her private life, she has to fight with her shortcomings and doubts, which nobody suspects. Dakota has her quirks and flaws too, she trips herself up from time to time and is sometimes adorable speechless when she has to work with Amanda. She also has a tendency to keep putting her foot in her mouth.
The chemistry between the two was undeniable and the inner monologues they had for or against a relationship were heartwarming and also hilarious. The story has a good flow and as always when the two authors work together, there is a lot of humor. A little mystery, conflict, and jealousy among work colleagues bring tension to the story. And sometimes you get help from an unexpected side, and the strength of women and their abilities are all you need to achieve the goal.
One of my favorite phrases was: «The roaches were so big I would've made them pay rent, but I was afraid they'd gang up on me and take me down»
A funny, age-gap, and celebrity story where women can escape reality for a few hours.
My rating 4.5 stars
Thanks to the authors for receiving an ARC for an honest review.
December 5, 2021
Co-hosts.
I'm a HUGE fan of the T.B.Markinson / Miranda MacLeod / Lori Prince combination. I believe Markinson and MacLeod have perfected the art of writing books together and I love them! Their stories are hilarious and they pack a punch in the romance department and Prince is the best choice for narrator when it comes to humour.
I was extra excited about this book because the celebrity and age-gap tropes are two of my favourite tropes and I wasn't disappointed. Amanda and Dakota have a 16 year age gap and they meet at the wedding of Amanda's step-son and Dakota's college roommate. What I love is that none of those things matter. I love that Amanda is Dakota's celebrity crush and that Dakota makes Amanda feel good about herself. They have a connection, a one night stand and that was it.
Their professional life is an area Amanda is more guarded against when she finds out that Dakota is from the same industry. She is initially cautious of Dakota using her to advance her career and attempts to put a distance between them until Amanda is tasked to wine and dine Dakota into joining her network. Amanda knows Dakota will eventually replace Amanda on the tv show that she has hosted for years but she isn't too concerned after a while because she knows Dakota is a good choice.
Amanda intrigued me. She developed a nasty reputation behind the cameras and is nicknamed the Dragon Lady at work. She doesn't deny that she's unpopular but I like that the truth is more that she doesn't care enough to clarify herself than her having an actual diva attitude. I love how irresistible Amanda and Dakota find each other, how the workplace romance rules are always there but they constantly find loopholes to justify their time together. And I love how sizzling their chemistry is. This is such an enjoyable audiobook... love it!
This audiobook was given to me for free at my request and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I'm a HUGE fan of the T.B.Markinson / Miranda MacLeod / Lori Prince combination. I believe Markinson and MacLeod have perfected the art of writing books together and I love them! Their stories are hilarious and they pack a punch in the romance department and Prince is the best choice for narrator when it comes to humour.
I was extra excited about this book because the celebrity and age-gap tropes are two of my favourite tropes and I wasn't disappointed. Amanda and Dakota have a 16 year age gap and they meet at the wedding of Amanda's step-son and Dakota's college roommate. What I love is that none of those things matter. I love that Amanda is Dakota's celebrity crush and that Dakota makes Amanda feel good about herself. They have a connection, a one night stand and that was it.
Their professional life is an area Amanda is more guarded against when she finds out that Dakota is from the same industry. She is initially cautious of Dakota using her to advance her career and attempts to put a distance between them until Amanda is tasked to wine and dine Dakota into joining her network. Amanda knows Dakota will eventually replace Amanda on the tv show that she has hosted for years but she isn't too concerned after a while because she knows Dakota is a good choice.
Amanda intrigued me. She developed a nasty reputation behind the cameras and is nicknamed the Dragon Lady at work. She doesn't deny that she's unpopular but I like that the truth is more that she doesn't care enough to clarify herself than her having an actual diva attitude. I love how irresistible Amanda and Dakota find each other, how the workplace romance rules are always there but they constantly find loopholes to justify their time together. And I love how sizzling their chemistry is. This is such an enjoyable audiobook... love it!
This audiobook was given to me for free at my request and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 17, 2021
Look, I've been on a bit of a The Morning Show binge and I was wondering if this might be some sort of fanfiction of the show. I don't think it is, but I wouldn't be surprised to find out it was inspired by the show.
Amanda is attending her stepson's wedding where her ex-wife has put everything in the works to make Amanda feel bad about herself. As a famous morning show host with a reputation as being the Dragon Lady, she isn't seen as a nice person, but in fact, she is just a big ol' marshmallow. Dakota is attending the same wedding as a friend of the bride. So yes, big age gap you think there. And yes Dakota is closer to Amanda's son's age than her age, but she doesn't act like she is super young. Amanda is mid-forties and Dakota early thirties. Age gap doesn't always work for me because oftentimes there is some sort of power imbalance that comes with it. Some of the insecurities Amanda has going into anything with Dakota are the usual pitfalls of age gap, but luckily the authors steered clear from them for the most part.
I liked the joking in the book, how Amanda takes her Dragon Lady name and reputation in stride and is able to joke about it as well. Dakota brings out her more playful side and together they are a force.
The things that are going on at their network seem like standard, horrible network politics that unfortunately are all too real. Or at least used to be real when I had a closer connection to it a couple of years ago, I can't speak for the current state of things.
I liked this book, it was fun, easy, funny and sweet, mixed with a bit of professional drama.
Amanda is attending her stepson's wedding where her ex-wife has put everything in the works to make Amanda feel bad about herself. As a famous morning show host with a reputation as being the Dragon Lady, she isn't seen as a nice person, but in fact, she is just a big ol' marshmallow. Dakota is attending the same wedding as a friend of the bride. So yes, big age gap you think there. And yes Dakota is closer to Amanda's son's age than her age, but she doesn't act like she is super young. Amanda is mid-forties and Dakota early thirties. Age gap doesn't always work for me because oftentimes there is some sort of power imbalance that comes with it. Some of the insecurities Amanda has going into anything with Dakota are the usual pitfalls of age gap, but luckily the authors steered clear from them for the most part.
I liked the joking in the book, how Amanda takes her Dragon Lady name and reputation in stride and is able to joke about it as well. Dakota brings out her more playful side and together they are a force.
The things that are going on at their network seem like standard, horrible network politics that unfortunately are all too real. Or at least used to be real when I had a closer connection to it a couple of years ago, I can't speak for the current state of things.
I liked this book, it was fun, easy, funny and sweet, mixed with a bit of professional drama.
November 6, 2021
Delightful and delicious!!
September 29, 2021
When Amanda and Dakota spend a hot night together at the wedding of Amanda’s stepson both don’t expect that this will be the start of a rollercoaster ride. While Dakota knows right away who Amanda is (she always had a big crush on her idol), Amanda has no idea until the next day.
Believing Dakota lied to her, she doesn’t wanna see her again and flees back to her work as a morning show host. Her job is where she always was successful and is expected to be perfect. But being in her late 40s she realises more and more that her time is ticking. Having no actual personal life and everyone believing she is an ice queen doesn’t make it easier. My heart went out to her several times because you just see that life and the people she was around made her like this. While deep inside she is vulnerable and has such a good heart.
When Dakota is brought back into the picture, Amanda has to welcome and support her. All an order by her boss. What Amanda doesn’t expect is having so much fun. We get to see such a different and funny side. All combined with a still lingering attraction between them. I just loved their moments together. They just fit and not only in bed (and oh my god they spend some very hot moments together). Even if they don’t wanna accept that at the beginning and would like to reduce it on the physical.
But of course the more time they spend together the harder it gets. Dakota is perfect for Amanda’s lacking self-confidence. Then even if no one would think that from the ice queen, she is definitely insecure when it comes to her body. But for Dakota she is just the most beautiful woman around and that’s what she totally shows her.
I could go on and on about how much I adored these two and how much I loved the story. A story that was never boring and kept me on my toes. A story that touched me, that made me laugh and one that definitely brought my body temperatures up several times.
For me this is definitely another must read by these wonderful authors. I’m amazed every time I read a co-write of them because their writing just fits together perfectly. Just as perfectly as Amanda and Dakota. 😊
Believing Dakota lied to her, she doesn’t wanna see her again and flees back to her work as a morning show host. Her job is where she always was successful and is expected to be perfect. But being in her late 40s she realises more and more that her time is ticking. Having no actual personal life and everyone believing she is an ice queen doesn’t make it easier. My heart went out to her several times because you just see that life and the people she was around made her like this. While deep inside she is vulnerable and has such a good heart.
When Dakota is brought back into the picture, Amanda has to welcome and support her. All an order by her boss. What Amanda doesn’t expect is having so much fun. We get to see such a different and funny side. All combined with a still lingering attraction between them. I just loved their moments together. They just fit and not only in bed (and oh my god they spend some very hot moments together). Even if they don’t wanna accept that at the beginning and would like to reduce it on the physical.
But of course the more time they spend together the harder it gets. Dakota is perfect for Amanda’s lacking self-confidence. Then even if no one would think that from the ice queen, she is definitely insecure when it comes to her body. But for Dakota she is just the most beautiful woman around and that’s what she totally shows her.
I could go on and on about how much I adored these two and how much I loved the story. A story that was never boring and kept me on my toes. A story that touched me, that made me laugh and one that definitely brought my body temperatures up several times.
For me this is definitely another must read by these wonderful authors. I’m amazed every time I read a co-write of them because their writing just fits together perfectly. Just as perfectly as Amanda and Dakota. 😊
February 6, 2022
High 4+⭐️
The Morning Show comes to mind when I read The AM Show….though the similarity stopped with the MCs, one of whom is a relative unknown and the other a hugely famous presenter who is pushing 50. There’s no #MeToo movement feature in TAS other than the old boring men at the helm who are just prejudiced against not-so-young lady presenters and have no qualms whatsoever to get rid of them just cos of their age. The ending is a pleasant surprise… to have a lady (no, not who you are probably thinking 😉) at the helm and getting rid of suffocating men out of the way was just pleasant…. It’s nice to have this mental picture in your head.
Verdict: A light read with low angst and many witty moments - thoroughly enjoyable.
The Morning Show comes to mind when I read The AM Show….though the similarity stopped with the MCs, one of whom is a relative unknown and the other a hugely famous presenter who is pushing 50. There’s no #MeToo movement feature in TAS other than the old boring men at the helm who are just prejudiced against not-so-young lady presenters and have no qualms whatsoever to get rid of them just cos of their age. The ending is a pleasant surprise… to have a lady (no, not who you are probably thinking 😉) at the helm and getting rid of suffocating men out of the way was just pleasant…. It’s nice to have this mental picture in your head.
Verdict: A light read with low angst and many witty moments - thoroughly enjoyable.
December 3, 2021
After experiencing the worst week of my life in which my dad passed away, I definitely needed a pick-me-up audiobook. Thanks to my friend and co-reviewer Tere who gave me 3 Audible credits to cheer me up, now I have the chance to choose some listens among the good amount of new lesfic releases. The AM Show was on my TBL list and it was just what the doctor ordered.
After a one-night stand with her idol, TV news host Amanda Morgan, Dakota Washington parts ways thinking she'll never see her again. Until Dakota is hired by Amanda's network and their mutual attraction is rekindled. But strict non-fraternization rules and internal rivalries will get in the way of their path to love...
This is an age-gap, opposites attract workplace romance, the fourth collaboration between Miranda Macleod and TB Markinson. These authors' styles are very compatible and together they create stories that are equally fun, romantic and hot. If you are looking for good entertainment, it's very recommendable.
The chemistry between the mains is believable and sizzling hot. The authors build a great transition from the initial one-night-stand to a proper relationship with increasing involvement of feelings. There is a push-pull between the mains caused by their workplace ban on relationships between the co-hosts that helps to build up sexual tension, which is done really well. The intimate scenes are varied and written very well too.
Some of my favorite things about this book are the dialogues and the banter not only between the leads but also with the rest of the cast. The dialogues are so natural sounding that it feels like having a fly-on-the-wall experience. There is a good amount of humor and funny situations that make the story more enjoyable but without being over the top. Additionally, a mini-mystery is added to the mix to move the plot forward and make it more interesting.
Lori Prince narrated the audiobook version and she is a perfect match for this story. I have said this before, but I have to repeat myself as Ms. Prince shows again that she has a fantastic comedic timing that she uses to perfection in this narration. Her voices for a more mature and distant Amanda and a younger and cheerful Dakota are spot on. Through Ms. Prince's excellent performance of the dialogues, I was able to see the story develop in my mind's eye. Personally, this audiobook is what I needed to get my mind off very sad personal moments and help me recover from a reading slump. Entertainment and escapism at their best. 5 stars.
Length: 10 hrs and 39 mins.
After a one-night stand with her idol, TV news host Amanda Morgan, Dakota Washington parts ways thinking she'll never see her again. Until Dakota is hired by Amanda's network and their mutual attraction is rekindled. But strict non-fraternization rules and internal rivalries will get in the way of their path to love...
This is an age-gap, opposites attract workplace romance, the fourth collaboration between Miranda Macleod and TB Markinson. These authors' styles are very compatible and together they create stories that are equally fun, romantic and hot. If you are looking for good entertainment, it's very recommendable.
The chemistry between the mains is believable and sizzling hot. The authors build a great transition from the initial one-night-stand to a proper relationship with increasing involvement of feelings. There is a push-pull between the mains caused by their workplace ban on relationships between the co-hosts that helps to build up sexual tension, which is done really well. The intimate scenes are varied and written very well too.
Some of my favorite things about this book are the dialogues and the banter not only between the leads but also with the rest of the cast. The dialogues are so natural sounding that it feels like having a fly-on-the-wall experience. There is a good amount of humor and funny situations that make the story more enjoyable but without being over the top. Additionally, a mini-mystery is added to the mix to move the plot forward and make it more interesting.
Lori Prince narrated the audiobook version and she is a perfect match for this story. I have said this before, but I have to repeat myself as Ms. Prince shows again that she has a fantastic comedic timing that she uses to perfection in this narration. Her voices for a more mature and distant Amanda and a younger and cheerful Dakota are spot on. Through Ms. Prince's excellent performance of the dialogues, I was able to see the story develop in my mind's eye. Personally, this audiobook is what I needed to get my mind off very sad personal moments and help me recover from a reading slump. Entertainment and escapism at their best. 5 stars.
Length: 10 hrs and 39 mins.
January 6, 2022
This was a cute enough romance. I initially rated it higher but then I kept thinking about it and liked it less and less. There were far too many coincidences for me to really believe. This is a long book so it didn't occur to me at first that most of their relationship takes place over a couple of weeks. And honestly, I just can't believe they had a deep enough connection in that short period of time that Amanda would be okay with messing up her long career for Dakota.
September 29, 2021
It was an okay read. I had high expectations because I’ve read other books from this duo and I loved them a lot, but this one didn’t wow me like the others. I enjoyed the beginning a lot and how Amanda and Dakota met at the wedding and all that, but then I couldn’t quite connect with the characters afterwards, I don’t know why, I just couldn’t feel the chemistry. But I enjoyed the story nonetheless and seeing them work together and solving that little mystery towards the end was very entertaining. Can’t wait for the next book by this amazing duo 🥰
January 11, 2023
3.5 - Funny, steamy (steamier than I'd expected), sweet, and engaging. Overall this was worth a listen for sure - Lori Prince did a wonderful job as usual! There was just something about this one that I just didn't connect with; honestly, the whole phone-tossing thing and all the chicken puns might have put me off it a bit too much in the beginning!
Still a great read/listen that I would for sure recommend.
Still a great read/listen that I would for sure recommend.
December 29, 2021
3,5 stars rounded up
Amanda and Dakota meet at Amanda's step-son's wedding and have a one-night-stand. They don't know yet that they will be coworkers very soon.
I enjoyed reading "The AM show" and liked it quite a bit, but didn't love it. I can't exactly pinpoint why.
Amanda and Dakota are likable, authentic characters, even though I think it would have been nice if Amanda was a bit more of an ice queen.
The book is very well written and I love the humor.
The story is entertaining, but a bit predictable in my opinion.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes a light, entertaining agegap workplace romance.
Amanda and Dakota meet at Amanda's step-son's wedding and have a one-night-stand. They don't know yet that they will be coworkers very soon.
I enjoyed reading "The AM show" and liked it quite a bit, but didn't love it. I can't exactly pinpoint why.
Amanda and Dakota are likable, authentic characters, even though I think it would have been nice if Amanda was a bit more of an ice queen.
The book is very well written and I love the humor.
The story is entertaining, but a bit predictable in my opinion.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes a light, entertaining agegap workplace romance.
September 3, 2022
Was this completely realistic? No. Did I care? Also no, because that's not why I read romance novels ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
The AM Show was absolutely delightful, and Lori Prince did an excellent job narrating the audiobook. I originally bought this book sometime in 2021, after binging The Morning Show on Apple TV. I'm not going to lie, I definitely assumed it would be thinly veiled Alex/Bradley fanfiction, which, to me, was an added bonus rather than a critique. The AM Show was *not*, in fact, thinly veiled fanfiction after all, but/and (I can't decide which word is more applicable) I enjoyed it immensely, probably even more than I would have had my assumptions been correct.
I really loved Amanda and Dakota as characters and even more so as a couple. They had amazing chemistry right from the get go. I really love books where the couple hooks up/gets together in the beginning and then the rest of the story follows them trying to figure out how to be in an actual relationship (vs the whole book leading up to the couple getting together for the first time), and The AM Show is one of those books.
Another thing I appreciated was that the authors didn't dwell on the age gap between the characters (16 years) excessively. The age gap trope is one of my favorites, but I get so sick and tired of the constant hemming and hawing over it. Of course it's something that should be addressed, but it doesn't always have to be the main point of contention between the love interests. For The AM Show, it was much more realistic that the main concerns over their relationship were potential professional consequences rather than their age difference.
It's also worth noting that Amanda is more of... I need to come up with a better term for this but for now let's say a "faux ice queen," in that she herself isn't all that icy, but her professional/external persona is. The "thawing the ice queen" trope involves the other love interest having to work hard to wear down all of the ice queen's walls, but The AM Show and a few other books I can think of off hand, like The Headmistress by Milena McKay, were more "I'm an ice queen to almost everyone but you" vibes. This isn't inherently better or worse than the thawing the ice queen trope, but it is different enough that I wish we had a better way to categorize the two so readers had accurate expectations from the get go.
Anyway, now I'm rambling. My only gripe didn't really detract from my enjoyment but did make me roll my eyes a bit: the love confessions felt like they came way too soon. If my book math is right, Amanda and Dakota said I love you after spending less than 2 weeks together. And not even in a row, two weeks collectively including their first hook up 6 months prior to the main storyline and the weekend Dakota is in NYC for her interview.
Again, I still enjoyed this book immensely, but I think if they had just confessed they had feelings for each other and their relationship was worth fighting for at the point the L word was dropped, then saved the actual love confessions for when the mystery subplot is resolved two-ish weeks after that, it would have read more realistically.
All in all, a highly enjoyable, sweet read. Will definitely be checking out these authors' other work!
I read this for the 2022 edition of my annual readathon, Sapphic September.
Love sapphic books, too? Let's be friends! Booktok | Bookstagram | Twitter
The AM Show was absolutely delightful, and Lori Prince did an excellent job narrating the audiobook. I originally bought this book sometime in 2021, after binging The Morning Show on Apple TV. I'm not going to lie, I definitely assumed it would be thinly veiled Alex/Bradley fanfiction, which, to me, was an added bonus rather than a critique. The AM Show was *not*, in fact, thinly veiled fanfiction after all, but/and (I can't decide which word is more applicable) I enjoyed it immensely, probably even more than I would have had my assumptions been correct.
I really loved Amanda and Dakota as characters and even more so as a couple. They had amazing chemistry right from the get go. I really love books where the couple hooks up/gets together in the beginning and then the rest of the story follows them trying to figure out how to be in an actual relationship (vs the whole book leading up to the couple getting together for the first time), and The AM Show is one of those books.
Another thing I appreciated was that the authors didn't dwell on the age gap between the characters (16 years) excessively. The age gap trope is one of my favorites, but I get so sick and tired of the constant hemming and hawing over it. Of course it's something that should be addressed, but it doesn't always have to be the main point of contention between the love interests. For The AM Show, it was much more realistic that the main concerns over their relationship were potential professional consequences rather than their age difference.
It's also worth noting that Amanda is more of... I need to come up with a better term for this but for now let's say a "faux ice queen," in that she herself isn't all that icy, but her professional/external persona is. The "thawing the ice queen" trope involves the other love interest having to work hard to wear down all of the ice queen's walls, but The AM Show and a few other books I can think of off hand, like The Headmistress by Milena McKay, were more "I'm an ice queen to almost everyone but you" vibes. This isn't inherently better or worse than the thawing the ice queen trope, but it is different enough that I wish we had a better way to categorize the two so readers had accurate expectations from the get go.
Anyway, now I'm rambling. My only gripe didn't really detract from my enjoyment but did make me roll my eyes a bit: the love confessions felt like they came way too soon. If my book math is right, Amanda and Dakota said I love you after spending less than 2 weeks together. And not even in a row, two weeks collectively including their first hook up 6 months prior to the main storyline and the weekend Dakota is in NYC for her interview.
Again, I still enjoyed this book immensely, but I think if they had just confessed they had feelings for each other and their relationship was worth fighting for at the point the L word was dropped, then saved the actual love confessions for when the mystery subplot is resolved two-ish weeks after that, it would have read more realistically.
All in all, a highly enjoyable, sweet read. Will definitely be checking out these authors' other work!
I read this for the 2022 edition of my annual readathon, Sapphic September.
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December 8, 2021
This just didn't do it for me. Two problems, though they're related, I think. The first is that the two characters seem like they're iterations of the same person. They have the same insecurities and hesitations, the same concerns, and the same outlook and interpretation of important issues. It doesn't help that they have the same profession and roughly the same physical presentation. The best the authors do in differentiating them is the age gap, and I'll admit that's not nothing. Amanda's 47 felt present in a way most authors bungle. Unfortunately, the main effect this had was to make Amanda seem more insecure than Dakota.
And that's the second problem. We're told, repeatedly, that Amanda is a Dragon Lady. That she gets her way. That she is powerful. But what we see is a woman forever acted upon, never acting. This is particularly present during her step-son's wedding where she's helplessly sidelined and just accepts the villainous machinations of her ex-wife. Worse, she overtly self-sabotages, is conscious of doing so, and does nothing to counter or assert herself in any way. And unfortunately, this continues in her professional career later. She has tons of money and we're told she's a power to be reckoned with. But she really, really isn't. And then we see her with Dakota where, once again, she finds herself helpless, unable to treat her as a foe to be defeated despite the threat she represents to Amanda's position at the network. This isn't a bad thing for the relationship and I frankly liked that Amanda found herself drawn into Dakota's orbit. But as good as it is for the relationship, it is a disaster for the characterization of Amanda as anyone with self-determination in any aspect of her life.
I can't help trying to rewrite this in my head where Amanda actually is as powerful as we're told, and acts like it; except when it comes to Dakota. That would have been such a nice dynamic, I imagine. Only that's the trouble and what drove me to dnf this. I'm having to fight the story I want this to be all the time and that's pushing me out of the story.
I'm going to give this a second star because the authors do some important things very well. I mentioned Amanda's age, but I really like that Amanda as a political insider has no illusions and is able to call out mistakes in her industry in clear and historical ways. So much of the surrounding pieces of this were strong that it makes me sad I couldn't buy the core characters.
And that's the second problem. We're told, repeatedly, that Amanda is a Dragon Lady. That she gets her way. That she is powerful. But what we see is a woman forever acted upon, never acting. This is particularly present during her step-son's wedding where she's helplessly sidelined and just accepts the villainous machinations of her ex-wife. Worse, she overtly self-sabotages, is conscious of doing so, and does nothing to counter or assert herself in any way. And unfortunately, this continues in her professional career later. She has tons of money and we're told she's a power to be reckoned with. But she really, really isn't. And then we see her with Dakota where, once again, she finds herself helpless, unable to treat her as a foe to be defeated despite the threat she represents to Amanda's position at the network. This isn't a bad thing for the relationship and I frankly liked that Amanda found herself drawn into Dakota's orbit. But as good as it is for the relationship, it is a disaster for the characterization of Amanda as anyone with self-determination in any aspect of her life.
I can't help trying to rewrite this in my head where Amanda actually is as powerful as we're told, and acts like it; except when it comes to Dakota. That would have been such a nice dynamic, I imagine. Only that's the trouble and what drove me to dnf this. I'm having to fight the story I want this to be all the time and that's pushing me out of the story.
I'm going to give this a second star because the authors do some important things very well. I mentioned Amanda's age, but I really like that Amanda as a political insider has no illusions and is able to call out mistakes in her industry in clear and historical ways. So much of the surrounding pieces of this were strong that it makes me sad I couldn't buy the core characters.
October 25, 2021
Hot chemistry and an entertaining story. Totally diggin' it.
December 17, 2021
I'm a sucker for age gap romances. My wife and I have a 14 year age gap, and I've always been attracted to older women. I loved the way the age gap is handled in this novel, as it's discussed but then clearly demonstrates that it really doesn't matter at the end of the day. It's more important the connection two people have.
Amanda and Dakota meet at the wedding of Amanda's stepson and Dakota's college roommate. Amanda is Dakota's celebrity crush, and I loved the way they meet and connect at the wedding. It was a great way to start their story together. What follows are a series of events that bring them back together in their professional life, and this is where the book really won me over.
Both Amanda and Dakota have professional drama they're working through, but the chemistry between them is undeniable. The development of their relationship while tackling the professional dramas was really well done, as it felt more substantial than purely a romance and added believable angst to the story.
I really liked this novel. It's fun, funny and fiery. 🔥
Amanda and Dakota meet at the wedding of Amanda's stepson and Dakota's college roommate. Amanda is Dakota's celebrity crush, and I loved the way they meet and connect at the wedding. It was a great way to start their story together. What follows are a series of events that bring them back together in their professional life, and this is where the book really won me over.
Both Amanda and Dakota have professional drama they're working through, but the chemistry between them is undeniable. The development of their relationship while tackling the professional dramas was really well done, as it felt more substantial than purely a romance and added believable angst to the story.
I really liked this novel. It's fun, funny and fiery. 🔥
July 14, 2022
This was a nice little romance. It was well written and I liked both Amanda and Dakota. The only thing that stops this from being 5 stars is I didn't feel an awful lot of physical chemistry. There was a lot of telling in that regard. But never mind! I still enjoyed it, and I'm going to check out the other books by these authors!
August 11, 2024
I thought this was a very solid read! I enjoyed the chemistry between the leads and the premise of how they meet and then hookup at a wedding is entertaining. Amanda Morgan gave me a Charlize Theron vibe, and I am not complaining. The story's conflict wrapped up in a pretty convenient/corny way but I didn't take it too seriously and thought it was a fun ride. There was also a bit more tell than show to establish how iconic of a figure Amanda is in the industry, things like who she'd interviewed and how she held her own in front of famous politicians. But given the length of the story I do get why the author did it that way. I was surprised to find a good amount of insight into the world of broadcast media journalism, clearly some research was done and it lent believability to the book for sure. It was interesting to learn about the differences between AM and PM shows, pacing, scriptwriting, etc.
All in all a satisfying read with some great moments if you just roll with the punches.
All in all a satisfying read with some great moments if you just roll with the punches.
June 29, 2022
The AM show is the latest collaboration from T.B. Markinson & Miranda Macleod. A night of passion between a morning show legend, Amanda, and a young reporter, Dakota, should never have led to anything but love has a way of finding you even when you're trying to keep it away.
I absolutely adore Amanda. On the surface she is icy and demanding. But beneath the chilly exterior, she is struggling with her confidence. She's a forty seven year old morning show host whos has been discarded and belittled by her former wife, she's been passed over for the lead news anchor position and she feels old. Having a young, beautiful woman desire her helps her get back some of her mojo. Despite how much she worries that Dakota is being brought in to replace her she can't keep herself from falling.
Dakota is an absolute sweetheart. How can you not fall for someone who makes chicken noises on her first day as a network morning show host. Her crush on Amanda quickly becomes something more substantial as she sees the woman behind the public persona and wants to help Amanda see herself the way Dakota sees her. Amanda sees her value tied to her fame and recognizability. Dakota helps her to see her worth beyond her job.
The AM Show is an entertaining age-gap, workplace romance. T.B. Markinson and Miranda Macleod are fabulous writers on their own, but they are a force when they unite. I have enjoyed all of their collaborations but this one is my favorite. I highly recommend if you're looking for a light-hearted rom-com.
I absolutely adore Amanda. On the surface she is icy and demanding. But beneath the chilly exterior, she is struggling with her confidence. She's a forty seven year old morning show host whos has been discarded and belittled by her former wife, she's been passed over for the lead news anchor position and she feels old. Having a young, beautiful woman desire her helps her get back some of her mojo. Despite how much she worries that Dakota is being brought in to replace her she can't keep herself from falling.
Dakota is an absolute sweetheart. How can you not fall for someone who makes chicken noises on her first day as a network morning show host. Her crush on Amanda quickly becomes something more substantial as she sees the woman behind the public persona and wants to help Amanda see herself the way Dakota sees her. Amanda sees her value tied to her fame and recognizability. Dakota helps her to see her worth beyond her job.
The AM Show is an entertaining age-gap, workplace romance. T.B. Markinson and Miranda Macleod are fabulous writers on their own, but they are a force when they unite. I have enjoyed all of their collaborations but this one is my favorite. I highly recommend if you're looking for a light-hearted rom-com.
October 22, 2021
I was expecting more from this book, the story is great but after they really get together all the hot stuff is FTB, and this is the only reason I didn't give 5 stars
I enjoyed the plot twist, I really wasn't expecting, although I thought that the person who did it was really suspicious, but it was fun, and that is other thing great about this book, it made me laugh, is a really light read, so I really enjoyed.
I enjoyed the plot twist, I really wasn't expecting, although I thought that the person who did it was really suspicious, but it was fun, and that is other thing great about this book, it made me laugh, is a really light read, so I really enjoyed.
December 18, 2021
I really enjoyed this, solidly a 4.5 stars read (or listen, in this case) for me. I’ve always enjoyed stories surrounding journalism and investigations, age gap romances are always fun, and the whole “we’ve got to kinda keep this a secret but also we can’t keep our hands off each other” is always entertaining to read. Add in two really lovely and charming MCs, some decent (if slightly sparse) side characters, a nicely paced romance, and one of my favorites narrators ever, and I had a blast.
October 13, 2021
I absolutely love this book! I couldn't put it down! You'll fall in love with Amanda and Dakota! You'll love them in spite of their flaws. The chemistry between them is hot! So are the sex scenes! They meet at Amanda's sons' wedding and his bride is Dakotas' bestfriend. Amanda is one of the hosts of IBC's The AM Show and is a celebrity. She's also Dakotas celebrity crush. Shes the reason Dakota got into being a tv reporter. When they meet, Amanda is doubting herself and Dakota's interest brings her out of her funk. They both think it's a one night stand, but circumstances arise that bring them together in NYC. Their ride is romantic, sexy and has a bit of a mystery thrown in. I highly reccomend this book, it'll take you away and you won't want to come back.
June 22, 2023
I devoured this in a couple of days! A lovely age-gap, grumpy/sunshine, forced proximity, rivals-to-lovers... it sort of has a bit of all those tropes!
Super-high on chemistry, nails the target with its wit, and with banter I could read all day, The AM Show is everything I want in a romance. Both girls melted my heart!
And yet, this isn't all fluffy-happy. It deals (lightly enough so the flow is not spoiled) with self-confidence (aging, parental influence, rejection, small town vs. big city fears), some bigotry (in terms of a male-dominated "suits" industry) trust, and issues resulting from gossip.
The authors strike a perfect balance of story and commentary with main characters you cannot help but love.
Near perfect and one of my very fave books this year 😀. I've nabbed the next book in the loose series quicker even than I ever dialled a pizza 😉
Super-high on chemistry, nails the target with its wit, and with banter I could read all day, The AM Show is everything I want in a romance. Both girls melted my heart!
And yet, this isn't all fluffy-happy. It deals (lightly enough so the flow is not spoiled) with self-confidence (aging, parental influence, rejection, small town vs. big city fears), some bigotry (in terms of a male-dominated "suits" industry) trust, and issues resulting from gossip.
The authors strike a perfect balance of story and commentary with main characters you cannot help but love.
Near perfect and one of my very fave books this year 😀. I've nabbed the next book in the loose series quicker even than I ever dialled a pizza 😉
April 9, 2022
3 stars
Not bad, but I'm probably not the intended audience. I only read it because of the many great reviews from my GR friends, but can't say it was my cup of tea. But it was still quite decent
Not bad, but I'm probably not the intended audience. I only read it because of the many great reviews from my GR friends, but can't say it was my cup of tea. But it was still quite decent
August 4, 2022
Amanda and Dakota are really likeable characters with well developed backgrounds, good chemistry and banter. The mystery/twist near the end was a treat too.
December 10, 2021
Loved it.
This was an easy to rate 5 star read. Loved both Amanda and Dakota, their age difference, where they are in their careers when they meet and everything that happens to and around them over the course of this story. The dialogue is witty and fun, the connection between these two broadcasters both sizzling and surprising. I was left with happy butterfly feelings even with the drama playing out at the IBC studios.
If you need a book to lift your spirits, give you a few laughs and remind you how wonderful a good romance novel can make you feel, read this one.
This was an easy to rate 5 star read. Loved both Amanda and Dakota, their age difference, where they are in their careers when they meet and everything that happens to and around them over the course of this story. The dialogue is witty and fun, the connection between these two broadcasters both sizzling and surprising. I was left with happy butterfly feelings even with the drama playing out at the IBC studios.
If you need a book to lift your spirits, give you a few laughs and remind you how wonderful a good romance novel can make you feel, read this one.
April 22, 2024
*4.5 stars
It doesn't happen often, but this is one of those times where I am absolutely kicking myself for letting this book sit on my tbr for so long. While I do feel like the ending was a bit rushed and there could have been some more fleshing out of the "plot twist", I really enjoyed it and highly recommend.
It doesn't happen often, but this is one of those times where I am absolutely kicking myself for letting this book sit on my tbr for so long. While I do feel like the ending was a bit rushed and there could have been some more fleshing out of the "plot twist", I really enjoyed it and highly recommend.
October 25, 2021
Loved this one! The story never quite went where I was expecting it to, and they were always good surprises. Amanda and Dakota had amazing chemistry together, and there were so many humorous moments. That scene near the end with the pants (no spoilers) had me in tears, I was laughing so hard.
April 24, 2024
Slow burn maybe
I'm not sure if this story started out slow or it was just me. But when it really started to click, it was a slow burn. But ended with a great twist.
I'm not sure if this story started out slow or it was just me. But when it really started to click, it was a slow burn. But ended with a great twist.
September 29, 2021
Attraction and a love for journalism can spark a new life.
Amanda and Dakota meet in the most magical way possible. A delightful story of two women unable to to keep their hands off each other. Even when a freak accident brings them together for work. A lifetime opportunity for Dakota comes at the cost of a real relationship. Amanda was established but unhappy in her Am Show. This story is full of mystery, mysogony from the show producers and a great twist to the story that unfolds in the most delicious way.
T.B. Markinson and Miranda Macleod have brought another marvelous story of age/gap attraction that brings friendship and deep love to independent women. The connection of the MC characters is just a hot mess with encounters that are fabulous. The real joy of this story is the way the women behind the scene save the people who who host the limelight. Sun a fun, delightful and totally wonderful read. I got an advance copy but bought the book so I can reread it often.
Amanda and Dakota meet in the most magical way possible. A delightful story of two women unable to to keep their hands off each other. Even when a freak accident brings them together for work. A lifetime opportunity for Dakota comes at the cost of a real relationship. Amanda was established but unhappy in her Am Show. This story is full of mystery, mysogony from the show producers and a great twist to the story that unfolds in the most delicious way.
T.B. Markinson and Miranda Macleod have brought another marvelous story of age/gap attraction that brings friendship and deep love to independent women. The connection of the MC characters is just a hot mess with encounters that are fabulous. The real joy of this story is the way the women behind the scene save the people who who host the limelight. Sun a fun, delightful and totally wonderful read. I got an advance copy but bought the book so I can reread it often.
November 8, 2021
I absolutely loved this book. It's going on my all-time-favorite list. I loved the characters, and their chemistry was great. The plot had a fantastic twist that I did not see coming.
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