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A Disaster in Three Acts: A YA Rom Com About Ex-Friends, Documentary Dreams, and Enemies Who Fall in Love
Fans of Elise Bryant and Rachel Lynn Solomon will swoon for Last Chance Books author Kelsey Rodkey's next romance, packed with snark, banter, and inconvenient crushes.
Saine Sinclair knows a little something about what makes a story worth telling.
Your childhood best friend refuses to kiss you during a pre-adolescent game of spin the bottle? Terrible, zero stars, would not replay that scene again. The same ex-friend becomes your new best friend's ex? Strangely compelling, unexpected twist, worth a hate-watch. That same guy--why is he always around?--turns out to be your last shot at getting into the documentary filmmaking program of your dreams?
Saine hates to admit it, but she'd watch that movie.
There's something about Holden that makes her feel like she's the one in front of the camera--like he can see every uncomfortable truth she's buried below the surface. Saine knows how her story's supposed to go. So why does every moment with Holden seem intent on changing the ending?
Saine Sinclair knows a little something about what makes a story worth telling.
Your childhood best friend refuses to kiss you during a pre-adolescent game of spin the bottle? Terrible, zero stars, would not replay that scene again. The same ex-friend becomes your new best friend's ex? Strangely compelling, unexpected twist, worth a hate-watch. That same guy--why is he always around?--turns out to be your last shot at getting into the documentary filmmaking program of your dreams?
Saine hates to admit it, but she'd watch that movie.
There's something about Holden that makes her feel like she's the one in front of the camera--like he can see every uncomfortable truth she's buried below the surface. Saine knows how her story's supposed to go. So why does every moment with Holden seem intent on changing the ending?
368 pages, Hardcover
First published July 5, 2022
49 people are currently reading
6402 people want to read
About the author
Kelsey Rodkey
6 books394 followersKelsey Rodkey is the author of the young adult novels Last Chance Books, A Disaster in Three Acts, Plus One, and Class Act. She is a banter enthusiast always in search of scary movies, delicious carbs, and her next five-star read. She once helped a British film crew make a documentary about creative dog grooming and has a terrible fear of waterslides. She lives in Pennsylvania with her partner and their cats, Cheese and Tux.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 226 reviews
November 19, 2022
um. well. it’s definitely a book!
May 17, 2023
the banter in this book was not good to me and actually made them seem super childish? also the miscommunication was KILLING ME!
July 18, 2022
the friends-to-enemies-to-friends-to-lovers second chance romcom of your dreams featuring:
- a dog named Bagel
- a fat cheerleader main character
- not one, but two f/f side character romances with happy endings
- complicated best friend feelings
- a virtual reality competition
- morally gray actions
- banter
- ditching parties to watch documentaries
- a dog named Bagel
- a fat cheerleader main character
- not one, but two f/f side character romances with happy endings
- complicated best friend feelings
- a virtual reality competition
- morally gray actions
- banter
- ditching parties to watch documentaries
July 6, 2022
This was a rocky read for me. Parts of this YA friends to enemies to lovers romance were great (Holden is the sweetest and secret pining is my cat nip!!) BUT Saine, the female MC was the worst! Selfish and always the lying. I really had a hard time liking her at all really. Okay on audio this one won't be making it into my favorites pile unfortunately.
July 20, 2022
I lost my interest in this book and couple pretty fast only positive I can say it's quick read.
September 18, 2024
um.
well.
this was interesting.
firstly love the free puppies reference i loved that so much. another thing i love is boys named holden, and this was no exception.
ok so now to things i didnt like... which was basically everything else <3
THE MC WAS SO SELFISH AND MEAN LIKE JUST TRY AND THINK ABOUT ANOTHER PERSON FOR ONCE BESTIE <3
and now onto the worst entire part ever...
the words ' tillikum the killer whale ' and ' gypsy rose blanchard ' were used in the same sentence?? and in the context of she wanted a mural of them fighting eachother on her bedroom wall? like so weird idek 😭😭
well.
this was interesting.
firstly love the free puppies reference i loved that so much. another thing i love is boys named holden, and this was no exception.
ok so now to things i didnt like... which was basically everything else <3
THE MC WAS SO SELFISH AND MEAN LIKE JUST TRY AND THINK ABOUT ANOTHER PERSON FOR ONCE BESTIE <3
and now onto the worst entire part ever...
the words ' tillikum the killer whale ' and ' gypsy rose blanchard ' were used in the same sentence?? and in the context of she wanted a mural of them fighting eachother on her bedroom wall? like so weird idek 😭😭
September 29, 2024
Read this in one day (mostly because my WiFi was down)
Very cute but I wish the fmc wasn't forgiven so early.
Content warning: past death of a grandparent, cancer, grief as a theme
Very cute but I wish the fmc wasn't forgiven so early.
Content warning: past death of a grandparent, cancer, grief as a theme
July 29, 2022
✔️YA/NEW ADULT
✔️HIGH SCHOOL
✔️FRIENDS-ENEMIES-FRIENDS-LOVERS
✔️SECRET PINNING FOR THE (F)MC SAINE.
Please note when going into this book, that is it VERY YA.
Saine is extremely selfish and immature. I COULD NOT connect with her. 🙄🥴
Holden was super sweet though. ❤️
They used to be best friends until a new girl (Corrine) came into the picture to take over the BFF title from Holden.
Then the Holden dates Corrine, and Saine stops talking to Holden entirely because he broke up with her new BFF. 😒
They end up having to work together on projects and reconnect. 🎥📸
Maybe I would've enjoyed the silly drama more if I was high school age 😂 but sadly, I am long past it 👵😉
✔️HIGH SCHOOL
✔️FRIENDS-ENEMIES-FRIENDS-LOVERS
✔️SECRET PINNING FOR THE (F)MC SAINE.
Please note when going into this book, that is it VERY YA.
Saine is extremely selfish and immature. I COULD NOT connect with her. 🙄🥴
Holden was super sweet though. ❤️
They used to be best friends until a new girl (Corrine) came into the picture to take over the BFF title from Holden.
Then the Holden dates Corrine, and Saine stops talking to Holden entirely because he broke up with her new BFF. 😒
They end up having to work together on projects and reconnect. 🎥📸
Maybe I would've enjoyed the silly drama more if I was high school age 😂 but sadly, I am long past it 👵😉
Read
November 1, 2022At least this was a quick read because it wasn't a good one.
I'll get right to it but the main character Saine sucks. She needs Holden to help with her documentary and in exchange she'll be the subject his photography but then proceeds to be an invasive and insensitive asshole the entire time.
He does his part of the deal but then has to beg her multiple times for his side and she just brushes him off?? And then she's just completely self centered oh my god he asked her to keep his personal life out of it, what does she do? Go IN DEPTH about his family and their damn finances and lies / hides that she's doing it. She does not care what she has to do or who she has to lie to to get her footage and for what?
At one point she even sabotages Holden in his competition JUST because she thought it would be better to film. Girl you suck. Even by the end of the book I wasn't feeling any development.
Oh there is romance but it involves her so I didn't like it. Childhood friends to enemies to lovers but it was all a miscommunication that talking once would have solved.
Cute cover though.
I'll get right to it but the main character Saine sucks. She needs Holden to help with her documentary and in exchange she'll be the subject his photography but then proceeds to be an invasive and insensitive asshole the entire time.
He does his part of the deal but then has to beg her multiple times for his side and she just brushes him off?? And then she's just completely self centered oh my god he asked her to keep his personal life out of it, what does she do? Go IN DEPTH about his family and their damn finances and lies / hides that she's doing it. She does not care what she has to do or who she has to lie to to get her footage and for what?
At one point she even sabotages Holden in his competition JUST because she thought it would be better to film. Girl you suck. Even by the end of the book I wasn't feeling any development.
Oh there is romance but it involves her so I didn't like it. Childhood friends to enemies to lovers but it was all a miscommunication that talking once would have solved.
Cute cover though.
April 11, 2023
ok this was such a cute read. i loved the banter, the characters (especially mara), and i loved documentary stuff in it too. so glad i picked this book up.
4.5 stars
4.5 stars
February 27, 2022
I received an audio ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This was not for me at all. I think this is meant more for a 13 -15 year old, so it missed the mark.
Saine and Holden used to be best friends. After an awkward spin the bottle encounter, their friendship ends. Flash forward to Senior year, Saine's is trying to make a documentary as for Temple University as part of an admission process. Her subject backs out at the last second and enter Holden. He is competing in the same competition as Saine's subject and steps in to help in exchange for her to pose for his photography assignment.
Saine annoyed me. She is completely selfish, manipulative and lied to everyone. I get she wants to go to Temple, but my gosh. She created a back story for Holden that was not accurate at all and paints him in a not so great light. She blows the competition to get the angle she wants on her story. She really thought she was going to get away with all of her lies.
Saine's best friend (I can't even recall her name) was selfish as well and everyone had to walk on eggshells around her.
Holden was the only character didn't suck. He was selfless and cared for those around him.
I really had to power through this. It would have been a DNF if it wasn't for a long car ride.
This was not for me at all. I think this is meant more for a 13 -15 year old, so it missed the mark.
Saine and Holden used to be best friends. After an awkward spin the bottle encounter, their friendship ends. Flash forward to Senior year, Saine's is trying to make a documentary as for Temple University as part of an admission process. Her subject backs out at the last second and enter Holden. He is competing in the same competition as Saine's subject and steps in to help in exchange for her to pose for his photography assignment.
Saine annoyed me. She is completely selfish, manipulative and lied to everyone. I get she wants to go to Temple, but my gosh. She created a back story for Holden that was not accurate at all and paints him in a not so great light. She blows the competition to get the angle she wants on her story. She really thought she was going to get away with all of her lies.
Saine's best friend (I can't even recall her name) was selfish as well and everyone had to walk on eggshells around her.
Holden was the only character didn't suck. He was selfless and cared for those around him.
I really had to power through this. It would have been a DNF if it wasn't for a long car ride.
September 8, 2021
I was very lucky to read an early copy of this book and it's every bit as wonderful as Rodkey's debut, LAST CHANCE BOOKS.
Rodkey is the queen of endearingly unlikable main characters, and Saine fills that role perfectly. She's relatably flawed, driven, hilarious, and cares deeply for those around her. Those traits lead to the perfect storm when Saine is faced with navigating the very precarious relationships between ex boyfriends and best friends, in order to achieve her goals.
There's amazing banter, a swoony romance, a fast-paced plot and a well-rounded cast of characters. A must read for 2022!
Rodkey is the queen of endearingly unlikable main characters, and Saine fills that role perfectly. She's relatably flawed, driven, hilarious, and cares deeply for those around her. Those traits lead to the perfect storm when Saine is faced with navigating the very precarious relationships between ex boyfriends and best friends, in order to achieve her goals.
There's amazing banter, a swoony romance, a fast-paced plot and a well-rounded cast of characters. A must read for 2022!
August 17, 2022
1.5 stars. I just didn’t like this much. Mainly because all the characters were so mean to each other, and not in an entertaining way like in The Cruel Prince. And the plot just didn’t grab my attention ever.
June 2, 2025
DNF @ 40%
Personally it was just way to slow for me. Every time I thought it was going to pick up it started to drag more and more.
Personally it was just way to slow for me. Every time I thought it was going to pick up it started to drag more and more.
August 9, 2022
4.5
this was SUCH A SLAY!!!!!! kelsey rodkey you're a Legend
this was SUCH A SLAY!!!!!! kelsey rodkey you're a Legend
August 11, 2022
I randomly audiobooked this and it was an abomination. It’s your typical friends to enemies to lovers except the female main character is a really bad person.
Saine is self aware of how she’s using Holden and his family situation to get into college yet she still keeps disgustingly using him, to the point she sabotages him getting the VR set he wanted. She didn’t understand why he wanted it so badly even when he explained the reason, and it was only when she got caught in her sabotage that she felt remorseful. She also spoke to a doctor about Holden’s brother’s cancer, and the doctor said she couldn’t disclose patient information for the camera, and Saine still secretly recorded it anyways. For someone who hates so much being on camera herself she sure does not respect other’s who wish not to be recorded. Speaking of that, she also would bail on Holden to take photos of her even though it was part of the deal, a deal that she kinda forced on him because she really needed that stupid college admissions documentary.
Her fight with Holden at the end where she tries to rationalize her actions is so disgusting to me and even her internal monologue shows she doesn’t understand why he overreacted. It also pisses me off Holden forgave her and they ended up together, she literally treats him like shit the whole book and we find out she basically erased him from her life for no good reason and he tried so hard to reconnect and she refused, but now that it’s convenient she starts speaking to him again.
Also her mother was trying so hard to provide her with a safe space especially after losing grandma, and Saine was so unappreciative, and complaining all the time. At the end when her mother made the decision on where to move, Saine was pissed off even though she’s moving away for college so her opinion doesn’t matter.
I hate how much Saine lied, she was a pathological liar, to Holden, to her best friend, even to herself while trying to rationalize everything she did. Her best friends was also a bitch, trying to impose her emotions between Saine and Holden. The secondary characters are underdeveloped and mediocre, especially Victor, he did nothing for the story and he disappeared after serving as a plot device of showing Saine she was in love with Holden. The only rewarding part was Holden, he was very dedicated and sweet, family oriented, and hardworking guy. I wish he hadn’t forgiven Saine, he’s wayyyy to good for her.
Anyways, I hated this, I think it was my worst read of the year (maybe ever) and nothing could top it. Shitty behavior should not be rewarded. I don’t care if she’s going through grief and this is her way of coping, guess what? Holden has a brother with cancer and he uses his time to train and compete for a VR set, not to manipulate and project his emotions into others.
Saine is self aware of how she’s using Holden and his family situation to get into college yet she still keeps disgustingly using him, to the point she sabotages him getting the VR set he wanted. She didn’t understand why he wanted it so badly even when he explained the reason, and it was only when she got caught in her sabotage that she felt remorseful. She also spoke to a doctor about Holden’s brother’s cancer, and the doctor said she couldn’t disclose patient information for the camera, and Saine still secretly recorded it anyways. For someone who hates so much being on camera herself she sure does not respect other’s who wish not to be recorded. Speaking of that, she also would bail on Holden to take photos of her even though it was part of the deal, a deal that she kinda forced on him because she really needed that stupid college admissions documentary.
Her fight with Holden at the end where she tries to rationalize her actions is so disgusting to me and even her internal monologue shows she doesn’t understand why he overreacted. It also pisses me off Holden forgave her and they ended up together, she literally treats him like shit the whole book and we find out she basically erased him from her life for no good reason and he tried so hard to reconnect and she refused, but now that it’s convenient she starts speaking to him again.
Also her mother was trying so hard to provide her with a safe space especially after losing grandma, and Saine was so unappreciative, and complaining all the time. At the end when her mother made the decision on where to move, Saine was pissed off even though she’s moving away for college so her opinion doesn’t matter.
I hate how much Saine lied, she was a pathological liar, to Holden, to her best friend, even to herself while trying to rationalize everything she did. Her best friends was also a bitch, trying to impose her emotions between Saine and Holden. The secondary characters are underdeveloped and mediocre, especially Victor, he did nothing for the story and he disappeared after serving as a plot device of showing Saine she was in love with Holden. The only rewarding part was Holden, he was very dedicated and sweet, family oriented, and hardworking guy. I wish he hadn’t forgiven Saine, he’s wayyyy to good for her.
Anyways, I hated this, I think it was my worst read of the year (maybe ever) and nothing could top it. Shitty behavior should not be rewarded. I don’t care if she’s going through grief and this is her way of coping, guess what? Holden has a brother with cancer and he uses his time to train and compete for a VR set, not to manipulate and project his emotions into others.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 17, 2021
*Spoiler free, 4.5 stars*
After reading and loving Last Chance Books, I was very excited to see what Kelsey would write next. And a book about a fat cheerleader was basically what sold me, but a book about a fat cheerleader who has to make a documentary with her childhood best friend who is also her friends ex and she does like him very much herself because of a falling out. It sounded amazing, and I was so eager to read it!
There is something about Kelsey Rodkey books that is comforting, sweet, and so humanely messy. It creates for something that feels like a hug in such a wonderful way.
The writing is the same way, there's something so comforting about it. Plus, Kelsey knows how to write a romcom. The teenage banter, the sweet awkwardness, the humor is just so spot on.
I absolutely adored Saine. She's messy and complicated and she's carrying so many emotions around with her all the time. She's trying to balance her feelings for her maybe not enemy, a friendship that seems like its getting rockier, her grandma's death, and trying to put together a documentary to get into her dream school. And this causes her actions and her feelings and the situations she finds herself in to be messy. Because she's a teenager trying to figure things out. Therapy is talked about so plainly; I adored it. Saine might be wary of the idea, but I loved the progression of her feelings toward it. She has a lot to deal with, and she deals with it like an authentic teenager. That doesn't mean there isn't tons of secondhand embarrassment, because I did feel a lot of that haha.
Really, one of my favorite parts of this book was the messiness. Saine is far from perfect, and the book as whole lets her be imperfect. She makes mistakes and she messes up. She's human, but she has to work to fix that. It's not something that is easy, but it's something she wants to do. There is a lot of growth in her. I loved seeing her be completely messy, and I also loved seeing her try to move forward.
I also really loved all the other characters. Holden was such a sweet, slightly awkward guy. He is so earnest, and he's just wonderful. I also adored Saine's friends. They don't have perfect relationships, but they do truly care about each other.
I will mention the humor one more time because this book is seriously funny. There was a line that made me downright cackle because how it was written was pure brilliance. Plus, the jokes throughout were amazing as well.
This was a really, really good book. A fat girl got to be the main character and just be fat because that is the way she is. She was messy and wonderful, and I completely adored her. Really, I adored the whole book.
After reading and loving Last Chance Books, I was very excited to see what Kelsey would write next. And a book about a fat cheerleader was basically what sold me, but a book about a fat cheerleader who has to make a documentary with her childhood best friend who is also her friends ex and she does like him very much herself because of a falling out. It sounded amazing, and I was so eager to read it!
There is something about Kelsey Rodkey books that is comforting, sweet, and so humanely messy. It creates for something that feels like a hug in such a wonderful way.
The writing is the same way, there's something so comforting about it. Plus, Kelsey knows how to write a romcom. The teenage banter, the sweet awkwardness, the humor is just so spot on.
I absolutely adored Saine. She's messy and complicated and she's carrying so many emotions around with her all the time. She's trying to balance her feelings for her maybe not enemy, a friendship that seems like its getting rockier, her grandma's death, and trying to put together a documentary to get into her dream school. And this causes her actions and her feelings and the situations she finds herself in to be messy. Because she's a teenager trying to figure things out. Therapy is talked about so plainly; I adored it. Saine might be wary of the idea, but I loved the progression of her feelings toward it. She has a lot to deal with, and she deals with it like an authentic teenager. That doesn't mean there isn't tons of secondhand embarrassment, because I did feel a lot of that haha.
Really, one of my favorite parts of this book was the messiness. Saine is far from perfect, and the book as whole lets her be imperfect. She makes mistakes and she messes up. She's human, but she has to work to fix that. It's not something that is easy, but it's something she wants to do. There is a lot of growth in her. I loved seeing her be completely messy, and I also loved seeing her try to move forward.
I also really loved all the other characters. Holden was such a sweet, slightly awkward guy. He is so earnest, and he's just wonderful. I also adored Saine's friends. They don't have perfect relationships, but they do truly care about each other.
I will mention the humor one more time because this book is seriously funny. There was a line that made me downright cackle because how it was written was pure brilliance. Plus, the jokes throughout were amazing as well.
This was a really, really good book. A fat girl got to be the main character and just be fat because that is the way she is. She was messy and wonderful, and I completely adored her. Really, I adored the whole book.
July 10, 2022
At one point in this book Saine described herself very well as “selfish, angry and raw”.
How important is it to like the main character in the book you’re reading?
It’s usually very important to me. There can be exceptions when the character is ridiculously over the top but really entertaining.
But I didn’t like Saine.
I thought this book was well written and I was interested in the plot but an awful part of me wanted Saine to actually have to own up to all the bad stuff she did.
She was best friends with Holden until she was 12 and he wouldn’t miss her during spin the bottle. She seems herself as the victim here but she literally threw away her best friend because she thought he didn’t have feelings for her ( god, couldn’t she still have been friends with him even if he didn’t? Apparently not!)
Then her best friend Corinne dated him. Saine didn’t tell Corinne that she’d had feelings for Holden six years earlier. She probably figured it didn’t matter since she wasn’t talking to him anymore.
When Corinne and Holden broke up, Saine started being openly rude to him because she thought he cheated on Corrine.
Now Saine is trying to film a documentary for an application to film school. Her original subject falls apart and Holden is her last chance. She decides to make him the new subject.
Here’s where things get much worse.
Does Saine tell Corinne about working with Holden?
When Corinne starts to suspect that Saine likes Holden and asks her straight out, does Saine own up to it?
So, these things are bad.
But then there’s what she does to poor Holden.
She uses him and manipulates him to try to improve her documentary’s ending.
She also uses his brother, his very sick brother, to try to improve her documentary. She treats him like an interesting plot twist instead of a person.
I think maybe Corinne could forgive Saine but I honestly can’t understand why Holden would.
I also don’t think Saine would have felt remotely guilty if she hadn’t been called out by Corinne and Holden did her actions.
Not a bad book but a totally unlikable lead character and that’s never going to work for me.
How important is it to like the main character in the book you’re reading?
It’s usually very important to me. There can be exceptions when the character is ridiculously over the top but really entertaining.
But I didn’t like Saine.
I thought this book was well written and I was interested in the plot but an awful part of me wanted Saine to actually have to own up to all the bad stuff she did.
She was best friends with Holden until she was 12 and he wouldn’t miss her during spin the bottle. She seems herself as the victim here but she literally threw away her best friend because she thought he didn’t have feelings for her ( god, couldn’t she still have been friends with him even if he didn’t? Apparently not!)
Then her best friend Corinne dated him. Saine didn’t tell Corinne that she’d had feelings for Holden six years earlier. She probably figured it didn’t matter since she wasn’t talking to him anymore.
When Corinne and Holden broke up, Saine started being openly rude to him because she thought he cheated on Corrine.
Now Saine is trying to film a documentary for an application to film school. Her original subject falls apart and Holden is her last chance. She decides to make him the new subject.
Here’s where things get much worse.
Does Saine tell Corinne about working with Holden?
When Corinne starts to suspect that Saine likes Holden and asks her straight out, does Saine own up to it?
So, these things are bad.
But then there’s what she does to poor Holden.
She uses him and manipulates him to try to improve her documentary’s ending.
She also uses his brother, his very sick brother, to try to improve her documentary. She treats him like an interesting plot twist instead of a person.
I think maybe Corinne could forgive Saine but I honestly can’t understand why Holden would.
I also don’t think Saine would have felt remotely guilty if she hadn’t been called out by Corinne and Holden did her actions.
Not a bad book but a totally unlikable lead character and that’s never going to work for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 1, 2022
I started with 3.5 stars, but after thinking it over, I’m going to go with 3.
I love reading authors’ sophomore novels to see how they compare to their debuts! A lot of the things I loved from Kelsey’s first novel, Last Chance Books, were present in this book as well—a plus-sized main character, diversity, romance, friendships, and family drama. I will say I did like Last Chance Books better.
Some key parts of the book:
Saine was very refreshing as a main character. I loved that Saine was fat, but this wasn’t a story about her being fat. It wasn’t a plot point or a big topic—she just was, and it was nice to see. She was also pretty selfish, which I had mixed feelings about. I liked seeing her be driven, and I enjoyed the way the story turned out, but I wasn’t always okay with her choices. And maybe that was the point. The whole thing seemed real, and it wasn’t an easy fix for her.
The romance was just… ok. Holden and Saine used to be friends before a spin the bottle mishap ruined their friendship. They end up spending time together unexpectedly, and we see their relationship change over time. But… I don’t know. It seemed like the shift just came out of nowhere? But! That could be because I listened to a voice galley of this, and I tend to space out at some parts so take that with a grain of salt.
Aside from the romance, I loved the other relationships in this book, especially the family relationships. Saine and her mother are grieving the loss of Saine’s grandmother, and we got to see how they both handled that. I also loved Juniper, Mara, and Kayla, Saine’s interactions with them, and their personalities.
I didn’t totally love Saine’s friendship with Corrine… It was kind of messed up and sort of toxic? Like Corrine seemed to unintentionally hold all the power in the friendship. I liked reading it because it was different, but I wish there was more of a resolution with this 🤔
If you liked Last Chance Books, I definitely recommend picking this one up!
Thank you Harper Collins and Netgalley for the ARC!
I love reading authors’ sophomore novels to see how they compare to their debuts! A lot of the things I loved from Kelsey’s first novel, Last Chance Books, were present in this book as well—a plus-sized main character, diversity, romance, friendships, and family drama. I will say I did like Last Chance Books better.
Some key parts of the book:
Saine was very refreshing as a main character. I loved that Saine was fat, but this wasn’t a story about her being fat. It wasn’t a plot point or a big topic—she just was, and it was nice to see. She was also pretty selfish, which I had mixed feelings about. I liked seeing her be driven, and I enjoyed the way the story turned out, but I wasn’t always okay with her choices. And maybe that was the point. The whole thing seemed real, and it wasn’t an easy fix for her.
The romance was just… ok. Holden and Saine used to be friends before a spin the bottle mishap ruined their friendship. They end up spending time together unexpectedly, and we see their relationship change over time. But… I don’t know. It seemed like the shift just came out of nowhere? But! That could be because I listened to a voice galley of this, and I tend to space out at some parts so take that with a grain of salt.
Aside from the romance, I loved the other relationships in this book, especially the family relationships. Saine and her mother are grieving the loss of Saine’s grandmother, and we got to see how they both handled that. I also loved Juniper, Mara, and Kayla, Saine’s interactions with them, and their personalities.
I didn’t totally love Saine’s friendship with Corrine… It was kind of messed up and sort of toxic? Like Corrine seemed to unintentionally hold all the power in the friendship. I liked reading it because it was different, but I wish there was more of a resolution with this 🤔
If you liked Last Chance Books, I definitely recommend picking this one up!
Thank you Harper Collins and Netgalley for the ARC!
July 27, 2023
I'm free from Saine and her stupid, selfish decisions.
March 11, 2023
2.5 ⭐️
I don’t know why I read this, considering that I didn’t like Kelsey Rodkey’s other novel either.
It wasn’t so boring that I couldn’t get through it, but the main character was very unlovable. She was constantly lying to the people around her, and could be SO selfish. She always thought about herself, no matter what it could cost others. Holden, the main guy was alright, and I sympathized with Corrine a lot.
I found it really difficult to root for the main couple because SO MUCH of it was done behind her “best friend’s back.” I honestly feel like the characters were very dry too. Like not in the way tjag not enough information was given, but in the way that they’re not interesting. The information about them was given, but I don’t see why I should care.
But anyways, that’s my thoughts on this book. Read it if you want, but I don’t think you should. Oh, and Saine was SO entitled too. I can’t stand her.
I don’t know why I read this, considering that I didn’t like Kelsey Rodkey’s other novel either.
It wasn’t so boring that I couldn’t get through it, but the main character was very unlovable. She was constantly lying to the people around her, and could be SO selfish. She always thought about herself, no matter what it could cost others. Holden, the main guy was alright, and I sympathized with Corrine a lot.
I found it really difficult to root for the main couple because SO MUCH of it was done behind her “best friend’s back.” I honestly feel like the characters were very dry too. Like not in the way tjag not enough information was given, but in the way that they’re not interesting. The information about them was given, but I don’t see why I should care.
But anyways, that’s my thoughts on this book. Read it if you want, but I don’t think you should. Oh, and Saine was SO entitled too. I can’t stand her.
July 1, 2022
First off, it grew on me. I had a hard time connecting to it, but it could have been just a slow start. After some time I enjoyed being in Saine’s head. She kept messing up and lying “like a lying liar” (I loved that line), and that’s just the kind of thing you do… When you’re young or scared.
Overall, good lessons to learn: not to use your friends, not to think so selfishly, to look outside yourself, and really, to be honest. I also like that there is a slow forgiveness. It wasn’t a magical “all is well now.” It took time (is taking? It’s still being worked out for them) for them to fully trust her again. Which is realistic, and important in a YA story.
And the slow fall romance was well done, in that they slowly liked each other more and more. Or had feelings and showed them more and more. In either case, it was believable. I liked it.
I was provided this ARC through NetGalley for my honest review. Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for giving me the privilege!
Overall, good lessons to learn: not to use your friends, not to think so selfishly, to look outside yourself, and really, to be honest. I also like that there is a slow forgiveness. It wasn’t a magical “all is well now.” It took time (is taking? It’s still being worked out for them) for them to fully trust her again. Which is realistic, and important in a YA story.
And the slow fall romance was well done, in that they slowly liked each other more and more. Or had feelings and showed them more and more. In either case, it was believable. I liked it.
I was provided this ARC through NetGalley for my honest review. Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for giving me the privilege!
January 7, 2023
yikes
May 17, 2022
**𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘕𝘦𝘵𝘨𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘺 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘏𝘢𝘳𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘊𝘰𝘭𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘴 𝘊𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥𝘳𝘦𝘯'𝘴 𝘉𝘰𝘰𝘬𝘴 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘨𝘪𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘈𝘙𝘊 𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘹𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘯 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸.
𝟑.𝟓 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬 ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
𝐏̳𝐋̳𝐎̳𝐓̳
𝐀 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐢𝐧 𝐓𝐡𝐫𝐞𝐞 𝐀𝐜𝐭𝐬 follows 𝗦𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗦𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗿 (h) as she applies to the Fiona O’Malley Documentary Pilot Program at Temple University. To complete her portfolio, she needs to showcase her camerawork by directing a film; therefore, she is determined to get a perfect story that will land her one of the fifteen spots of applicants accepted to the program. However, when her original documentary subject bails, she asks her former childhood best friend, 𝗛𝗼𝗹𝗱𝗲𝗻 𝗠𝗶𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗲𝗹𝘀 (H), who happens to be her best friend’s ex, for help as her new subject. As the two reconnect and bond over their documentary, Saine notices that Holden is being secretive, and she worries about the potential of her film without an emotional impact. Moreover, she worries about her friendship with her best friend if she continues to hang around Holden and old feelings arise again. As the deadline for the film approaches and events become messier, Saine is forced to reconsider what is most important to her and what it means for the relationships in her life.
𝐂̳𝐇̳𝐀̳𝐑̳𝐀̳𝐂̳𝐓̳𝐄̳𝐑̳𝐒̳
Saine Sinclair (h) — would do anything for the sake of a good film even if it's not a great choice, which may be perceived as “selfish”
Holden Michaels (H) — you might find him with a camera taking pictures for the yearbook and would do anything for his little brother Trevor
𝐓̳𝐇̳𝐎̳𝐔̳𝐆̳𝐇̳𝐓̳𝐒̳
The banter in this book was EVERYTHING and one of the most enjoyable aspects of their dynamic, especially when they were not a couple yet. There are underlying feelings, and their “dislike” for each other is the hidden attraction that the two attempt to fight for a while. I adore books where the banter persists even when the romance develops, and this book was EXACTLY that. There was so much more to this book than the romance, such as grief, loss, friendship, economic struggles, etc. Holden and Saine often had situations of miscommunication, and YES, it could have been prevented if they sat down and talked about it, OR if they made different decisions, but I think it makes this book realistic. Again, they are teenagers, and they will make mistakes, and their choices will not always be selfless, but that is where there is room for character development and maturing.
The heroine might be unlikeable various times, and it had me questioning her actions; however, I think it all deals with the growing process, so I don’t fault her for that. Often, I didn’t agree with her decisions, but I understood her standpoint, and the book was interesting nonetheless. Do I wish she had made different decisions? YES but I’m glad she had people to help her see why she was wrong and made her reconsider her position on situations.
𝐎̳𝐕̳𝐄̳𝐑̳𝐀̳𝐋̳𝐋̳
If you like childhood best friends to “enemies” to lovers with GREAT banter, then this is a book that should be added to your TBR. Despite the events that made me angry at the heroine, I managed to enjoy this book and would most likely reread it again for the scenes between Saine and Holden. Their dynamic is wholesome and the two complement each other so well, especially with their history.
𝟑.𝟓 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬 ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
𝐏̳𝐋̳𝐎̳𝐓̳
𝐀 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐢𝐧 𝐓𝐡𝐫𝐞𝐞 𝐀𝐜𝐭𝐬 follows 𝗦𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗦𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗿 (h) as she applies to the Fiona O’Malley Documentary Pilot Program at Temple University. To complete her portfolio, she needs to showcase her camerawork by directing a film; therefore, she is determined to get a perfect story that will land her one of the fifteen spots of applicants accepted to the program. However, when her original documentary subject bails, she asks her former childhood best friend, 𝗛𝗼𝗹𝗱𝗲𝗻 𝗠𝗶𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗲𝗹𝘀 (H), who happens to be her best friend’s ex, for help as her new subject. As the two reconnect and bond over their documentary, Saine notices that Holden is being secretive, and she worries about the potential of her film without an emotional impact. Moreover, she worries about her friendship with her best friend if she continues to hang around Holden and old feelings arise again. As the deadline for the film approaches and events become messier, Saine is forced to reconsider what is most important to her and what it means for the relationships in her life.
𝐂̳𝐇̳𝐀̳𝐑̳𝐀̳𝐂̳𝐓̳𝐄̳𝐑̳𝐒̳
Saine Sinclair (h) — would do anything for the sake of a good film even if it's not a great choice, which may be perceived as “selfish”
Holden Michaels (H) — you might find him with a camera taking pictures for the yearbook and would do anything for his little brother Trevor
𝐓̳𝐇̳𝐎̳𝐔̳𝐆̳𝐇̳𝐓̳𝐒̳
The banter in this book was EVERYTHING and one of the most enjoyable aspects of their dynamic, especially when they were not a couple yet. There are underlying feelings, and their “dislike” for each other is the hidden attraction that the two attempt to fight for a while. I adore books where the banter persists even when the romance develops, and this book was EXACTLY that. There was so much more to this book than the romance, such as grief, loss, friendship, economic struggles, etc. Holden and Saine often had situations of miscommunication, and YES, it could have been prevented if they sat down and talked about it, OR if they made different decisions, but I think it makes this book realistic. Again, they are teenagers, and they will make mistakes, and their choices will not always be selfless, but that is where there is room for character development and maturing.
The heroine might be unlikeable various times, and it had me questioning her actions; however, I think it all deals with the growing process, so I don’t fault her for that. Often, I didn’t agree with her decisions, but I understood her standpoint, and the book was interesting nonetheless. Do I wish she had made different decisions? YES but I’m glad she had people to help her see why she was wrong and made her reconsider her position on situations.
𝐎̳𝐕̳𝐄̳𝐑̳𝐀̳𝐋̳𝐋̳
If you like childhood best friends to “enemies” to lovers with GREAT banter, then this is a book that should be added to your TBR. Despite the events that made me angry at the heroine, I managed to enjoy this book and would most likely reread it again for the scenes between Saine and Holden. Their dynamic is wholesome and the two complement each other so well, especially with their history.
January 9, 2023
(longer review to follow)
I mostly enjoyed reading this one. It's a sweet story, and I think very fitting for Young Adult (sometimes I felt like this is the definition of YA). Generally, quite likeable characters who seem genuine and relatable. Some topics are a bit on the tougher side (CW for death, grief, illness) but were discussed in a way suitable for YA. Something I struggled with was the female lead, Saine, who often seems rather immature and selfish. I want to say, "I get where she is coming from", but that would feel wrong. I felt sorry for a lot of people because of her actions - that's probably not a good sign. So I'm on the fence if I could recommend it since I value character over plot. To my mind, a good cast of characters, great character and world-building can offset some plot difficulties. And that's not a total given here. I guess I'll think about it and return to this review. For now, 2 stars.
I mostly enjoyed reading this one. It's a sweet story, and I think very fitting for Young Adult (sometimes I felt like this is the definition of YA). Generally, quite likeable characters who seem genuine and relatable. Some topics are a bit on the tougher side (CW for death, grief, illness) but were discussed in a way suitable for YA. Something I struggled with was the female lead, Saine, who often seems rather immature and selfish. I want to say, "I get where she is coming from", but that would feel wrong. I felt sorry for a lot of people because of her actions - that's probably not a good sign. So I'm on the fence if I could recommend it since I value character over plot. To my mind, a good cast of characters, great character and world-building can offset some plot difficulties. And that's not a total given here. I guess I'll think about it and return to this review. For now, 2 stars.
May 1, 2022
I love this book with my entire heart and will read anything and everything Kelsey Rodkey writes from here until the end of time. Her signature wit, biting prose, and swoon-worthy heart never disappoints. On my list of favorite YA romcoms of all time.
April 30, 2025
3.74 stars.
i'm not sure. the character was normally annoy the crap out of me but for some reason this girl just didn't. it was like we clicked, although we are verryyyy different. also like the love interest, he's iconic. background romances? peak. perfect. adorable. i'm in a reading slump but if i wasn't, id honestly rate it lower. i think the problems were great. it was dramatic, i loved it. the blurb was perfect, top tier and explained the plot exquisitely, showing how funny the dynamics are. the tension between her best friend was actually a really cool addition ive never seen before and i quite enjoyed seeing more depth in different relationships. probably not for everyone but i think i liked it more than what i thought i could've, based off the blurb. it was all over the show honestly and it was a nice vibe. kind of reminds me of high school problems with reactions of primary schoolers but these people are neither. love it. fantastic honestlyyyyyy
i could rate it higher but i got bored throughout the book (again, reading slump) and its not my usual cup of tea. i prefer a bit of fantasy so this went quite well for me, in all honesty.
i'm not sure. the character was normally annoy the crap out of me but for some reason this girl just didn't. it was like we clicked, although we are verryyyy different. also like the love interest, he's iconic. background romances? peak. perfect. adorable. i'm in a reading slump but if i wasn't, id honestly rate it lower. i think the problems were great. it was dramatic, i loved it. the blurb was perfect, top tier and explained the plot exquisitely, showing how funny the dynamics are. the tension between her best friend was actually a really cool addition ive never seen before and i quite enjoyed seeing more depth in different relationships. probably not for everyone but i think i liked it more than what i thought i could've, based off the blurb. it was all over the show honestly and it was a nice vibe. kind of reminds me of high school problems with reactions of primary schoolers but these people are neither. love it. fantastic honestlyyyyyy
i could rate it higher but i got bored throughout the book (again, reading slump) and its not my usual cup of tea. i prefer a bit of fantasy so this went quite well for me, in all honesty.
June 21, 2022
Thank you so much to Harper360YA for the opportunity to review an early digital copy of this book!
3.5 stars.
I loved the whole premise of this book - I thought the central concept of documentaries and filmmaking was super unique, and it was very fun and interesting to read about! I was really drawn in by the main romance and, even though I found the main character slightly too unlikeable at times, their relationship was cute and I found myself rooting for them. The side characters were also fun to read about, and I really liked their dynamics and interactions. I also really loved the queer rep in this book!
That being said, whilst I loved the characters in this book, the pacing of the plot was a little off to me - it felt slow in some parts, whilst I felt that the conflict in other parts was resolved too quickly or brushed over.
Overall, a cute, enjoyable read featuring a fun cast of characters, written by an author who I would definitely love to check out again!
3.5 stars.
I loved the whole premise of this book - I thought the central concept of documentaries and filmmaking was super unique, and it was very fun and interesting to read about! I was really drawn in by the main romance and, even though I found the main character slightly too unlikeable at times, their relationship was cute and I found myself rooting for them. The side characters were also fun to read about, and I really liked their dynamics and interactions. I also really loved the queer rep in this book!
That being said, whilst I loved the characters in this book, the pacing of the plot was a little off to me - it felt slow in some parts, whilst I felt that the conflict in other parts was resolved too quickly or brushed over.
Overall, a cute, enjoyable read featuring a fun cast of characters, written by an author who I would definitely love to check out again!
July 17, 2022
A Disaster in Three Acts has some lovely moments, but there were parts of this that infuriated me so much.
Our main character, Saine, wants to be a documentary maker. She has a plan to film a piece for consideration to college, but when her subject drops out she has to think on her feet. She ends up in a collaboration with her best friend’s ex, Holden, who used to be her best friend, though she hadn’t spoken to him for years.
From the outset you can guess where this will end up. The concept is a good one, and Holden is lovely. Unfortunately I found the girls in this (apart from Mara) annoying. Selfish in a way I would expect of someone much younger, and definitely lacking in empathy when it matters, Saine was hard work,
Our main character, Saine, wants to be a documentary maker. She has a plan to film a piece for consideration to college, but when her subject drops out she has to think on her feet. She ends up in a collaboration with her best friend’s ex, Holden, who used to be her best friend, though she hadn’t spoken to him for years.
From the outset you can guess where this will end up. The concept is a good one, and Holden is lovely. Unfortunately I found the girls in this (apart from Mara) annoying. Selfish in a way I would expect of someone much younger, and definitely lacking in empathy when it matters, Saine was hard work,
July 4, 2022
As the title would suggest, this story is told in three sections. Saine (like insane without the in) is a young woman grieving, dealing with fairly adult worries while also trying to be a normal teenager and consider her options for after graduation.
The first act - I found a little meh, but I wish we knew how things had ended up for Yvette!
The second act had your typical everything is good then catastrophe.
The third act was redemption with a happy ending. Who doesn't love a happy ending!
Cute characters, some really grown up themes throughout but a heartwarming romcom.
I really enjoyed the authors writing style and would definitely read more by her!
The first act - I found a little meh, but I wish we knew how things had ended up for Yvette!
The second act had your typical everything is good then catastrophe.
The third act was redemption with a happy ending. Who doesn't love a happy ending!
Cute characters, some really grown up themes throughout but a heartwarming romcom.
I really enjoyed the authors writing style and would definitely read more by her!
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