What do you think?
Rate this book
Rival Radio
These two on-air enemies can’t stop rubbing each other the wrong way in the booth…and the right way in bed.
Theo
Whoever said “keep your enemies close” never had to share a small, dark sound booth with her. Daria Stone is the infuriating host of “Choosing Yourself.” The name is almost as ridiculous as the concept. Permanently single? Please. The woman’s made a career out of rejecting everything I stand for.
I’m looking for the one. The right woman who’s ready for marriage and a lifetime together. Not some sultry, stubborn vixen who makes my life a living hell and insists a husband can be replaced by a curated collection of bedroom toys. And I know she’s wearing those skin-tight leather pants just to annoy me.
Daria
Dr. Theo Chadwick is a professional pain in my…workplace. Sure—on the outside, the man is gorgeous. But he’s also obsessed with finding his better half and getting his radio show, “True Romance,” syndicated so he can give false hope to lovelorn listeners everywhere.
He keeps pushing my buttons with his arrogant “expertise” about how wrong I am. I just want to see him snap. Maybe that’s how I ended up here, pinned against a wall with my legs wrapped around his waist…whoops…
Can these enemies put their feud on hold and play nice in a shared timeslot to save their popular beach town radio station? Or will their sparks burn everything to the ground?
Author’s One-click if you love forced proximity, breakroom bickering, “we’re just getting it out of our system” one-night stands, a rag-tag crew of DJs, and beachy, retro boardwalk magic.
Theo
Whoever said “keep your enemies close” never had to share a small, dark sound booth with her. Daria Stone is the infuriating host of “Choosing Yourself.” The name is almost as ridiculous as the concept. Permanently single? Please. The woman’s made a career out of rejecting everything I stand for.
I’m looking for the one. The right woman who’s ready for marriage and a lifetime together. Not some sultry, stubborn vixen who makes my life a living hell and insists a husband can be replaced by a curated collection of bedroom toys. And I know she’s wearing those skin-tight leather pants just to annoy me.
Daria
Dr. Theo Chadwick is a professional pain in my…workplace. Sure—on the outside, the man is gorgeous. But he’s also obsessed with finding his better half and getting his radio show, “True Romance,” syndicated so he can give false hope to lovelorn listeners everywhere.
He keeps pushing my buttons with his arrogant “expertise” about how wrong I am. I just want to see him snap. Maybe that’s how I ended up here, pinned against a wall with my legs wrapped around his waist…whoops…
Can these enemies put their feud on hold and play nice in a shared timeslot to save their popular beach town radio station? Or will their sparks burn everything to the ground?
Author’s One-click if you love forced proximity, breakroom bickering, “we’re just getting it out of our system” one-night stands, a rag-tag crew of DJs, and beachy, retro boardwalk magic.
374 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 20, 2022
667 people are currently reading
3184 people want to read
About the author
Kathryn Nolan
21 books1,567 followersKathryn Nolan (she/they) is an Amazon Top 25 bestselling author. Her steamy romance novels are known for their slow-burn sexual tension, memorable characters, and big, hopeful feelings.
Kathryn is a bisexual bookworm and femme cutie with big Leo energy. They love to spend their free time hiking, camping and traveling. When not on the road, they live in their hometown of Philly with their cute husband and giant-eared rescue pup, Walter.
Sign up for Kathryn’s weekly newsletter to see what she’s writing, what she’s reading/watching and get all her travel stories (plus an abundance of Walter photos!).
Newsletter link: https://www.authorkathrynnolan.com/jo...
Kathryn is a bisexual bookworm and femme cutie with big Leo energy. They love to spend their free time hiking, camping and traveling. When not on the road, they live in their hometown of Philly with their cute husband and giant-eared rescue pup, Walter.
Sign up for Kathryn’s weekly newsletter to see what she’s writing, what she’s reading/watching and get all her travel stories (plus an abundance of Walter photos!).
Newsletter link: https://www.authorkathrynnolan.com/jo...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 367 reviews
July 4, 2022
** One 0f my 15 Best of the Year (So Far) Picks on www.JeevesReads.com! **
If you liked The Ex Talk but wanted more swoons AND more sex, well, then you're gonna love this sexual tension-filled treat! There's something about Nolan's writing that is always so super swoony, with low angst vibes and romance that you can root for. I was expecting this to have stronger enemies to lovers vibes, but these two are very much rivals who can't stand their attraction to each other. Our buttoned up hero believes in love and romantic gestures, while our heroine believes in loving yourself and putting your own happiness first. Their past experiences have shaped their current philosophies, and these two rival radio hosts can't seem to agree on anything. I loved the bickering turned bantering, the playful and sexy feel, the HEAT, and the obvious chemistry. This hero is a cinnamon roll sweetheart who loves love, and I adored that he was steadfast the whole way through. It's a lighthearted, intelligent story, and I had no trouble bingeing it in one sitting.
The story follows Daria and Theo, two radio personalities who each host their own shows about love. Theo is all about finding your perfect partner, commitment, and lasting relationships, while Daria is planning to remain single forever. They both have popular relationship advice shows, but the radio station is still struggling, so management decides it'd be best to pair them up for awhile. The only trouble? Daria and Theo can't seem to stop arguing, and their advise to listeners couldn't be more contradictory. It seems like they'll never be able to get along... except, the chemistry that sparks between them is the kind neither one has ever experienced. As they struggle to find common ground, Theo and Daria realize that opposites don't just attract - they might be perfect for each other.
I'm always up for an opposites attract romance, and having a hero who is all in right away is never a bad thing. I loved Theo, who has been searching for real, authentic love for years. He's such a sweetheart of a man, but certainly has an alpha side when he needs it, and that made for such a compelling combination. Daria was also great too; she is so strong and independent that it would take just the right man to make her fall. There are some excellent themes about putting yourself first, compromising, accepting imperfections, and holding on to a love that feels right. There's also plenty of inclusivity in this cast of characters, another of Nolan's strengths. The whole thing remained upbeat and STEAMY, with tons of playfulness and some great insight. And did I mention the chemistry? There's not much that I didn't love about this; it was another very satisfying read from Nolan.
If you liked The Ex Talk but wanted more swoons AND more sex, well, then you're gonna love this sexual tension-filled treat! There's something about Nolan's writing that is always so super swoony, with low angst vibes and romance that you can root for. I was expecting this to have stronger enemies to lovers vibes, but these two are very much rivals who can't stand their attraction to each other. Our buttoned up hero believes in love and romantic gestures, while our heroine believes in loving yourself and putting your own happiness first. Their past experiences have shaped their current philosophies, and these two rival radio hosts can't seem to agree on anything. I loved the bickering turned bantering, the playful and sexy feel, the HEAT, and the obvious chemistry. This hero is a cinnamon roll sweetheart who loves love, and I adored that he was steadfast the whole way through. It's a lighthearted, intelligent story, and I had no trouble bingeing it in one sitting.
The story follows Daria and Theo, two radio personalities who each host their own shows about love. Theo is all about finding your perfect partner, commitment, and lasting relationships, while Daria is planning to remain single forever. They both have popular relationship advice shows, but the radio station is still struggling, so management decides it'd be best to pair them up for awhile. The only trouble? Daria and Theo can't seem to stop arguing, and their advise to listeners couldn't be more contradictory. It seems like they'll never be able to get along... except, the chemistry that sparks between them is the kind neither one has ever experienced. As they struggle to find common ground, Theo and Daria realize that opposites don't just attract - they might be perfect for each other.
I'm always up for an opposites attract romance, and having a hero who is all in right away is never a bad thing. I loved Theo, who has been searching for real, authentic love for years. He's such a sweetheart of a man, but certainly has an alpha side when he needs it, and that made for such a compelling combination. Daria was also great too; she is so strong and independent that it would take just the right man to make her fall. There are some excellent themes about putting yourself first, compromising, accepting imperfections, and holding on to a love that feels right. There's also plenty of inclusivity in this cast of characters, another of Nolan's strengths. The whole thing remained upbeat and STEAMY, with tons of playfulness and some great insight. And did I mention the chemistry? There's not much that I didn't love about this; it was another very satisfying read from Nolan.
dnf
June 26, 2022DNF @ 37%
So sad to do this 🙁
I really enjoyed her latest book, Not the Marrying Kind, and the other in the series, Strictly Professional — so when I saw another of her books had been released with this cute blurb? I was stoked!
Sadly, it was too slow. I made myself get to my (self-made) DNF checkpoint if 30% before calling it quits, but that felt like an accomplishment in itself because it felt like nothing was happening.
I feel like it was in attempt to build up anticipation and tension for the characters, but it just felt like a lot of back and forth and when they are physical the first time it was like hearing a “womp, womp” in the background of my mind. I never felt that anticipation or tension to the point that I thought they seriously lacked chemistry — which really is such a shame because those two books ^^ had some off the charts chemistry going on!
Dang
So sad to do this 🙁
I really enjoyed her latest book, Not the Marrying Kind, and the other in the series, Strictly Professional — so when I saw another of her books had been released with this cute blurb? I was stoked!
Sadly, it was too slow. I made myself get to my (self-made) DNF checkpoint if 30% before calling it quits, but that felt like an accomplishment in itself because it felt like nothing was happening.
I feel like it was in attempt to build up anticipation and tension for the characters, but it just felt like a lot of back and forth and when they are physical the first time it was like hearing a “womp, womp” in the background of my mind. I never felt that anticipation or tension to the point that I thought they seriously lacked chemistry — which really is such a shame because those two books ^^ had some off the charts chemistry going on!
Dang
January 25, 2023
was not expecting this man to be so spicy bc hot damn!!! good thing my highlights are private because oh my goodness.
these two are rivals-to-lovers, opposites-attract, forced proximity (they have to combine their shows at work), AND workplace romance. so funny, super hot, and low-key cute as hell.
has great conversations about relationships/societal expectations etc. whether you're single or in a relationship, I think you'll find something to love about this book!
these two are rivals-to-lovers, opposites-attract, forced proximity (they have to combine their shows at work), AND workplace romance. so funny, super hot, and low-key cute as hell.
has great conversations about relationships/societal expectations etc. whether you're single or in a relationship, I think you'll find something to love about this book!
August 14, 2025
re-read via audio because i needed a banger, and kathryn nolan always delivers. theo has a filthy mouth when he gets going and hearing it via audiobook was delightful.
also i would love a disco balls akimbo birthday party please and thank you.
actual rating 4.5 stars
A contemporary romance like what I've been pining for. Tightly focused on the main couple, full of swoon-worthy moments, excellent banter, and soooo much sexual tension, and no big traumas on page, I loved it.
Dr. Theo Chadwick, a relationship expert with his psychology PhD, is the polar opposite of "I'm here to teach you to love yourself self and perpetual single since being left at the altar" Daria Stone. Both are popular talk radio show hosts, but their indie station is struggling and needs to cut costs - so combines their shows too boost numbers with their rivalry (both on air and in competitions their producers throw them into). But their on air rivalry turns into in-person intimacy as they both find they are drawn together.
But as opportunity knocks, can perpetually single Daria give up her brand to have a happily ever after?
Theo is such a dream boat, and the way these two talked through their fears and worries was super refreshing. Despite the pining and some angst, there was no third-act break up (more of a please trust me I need a couple days) moment.
ALSO SO SO hot. Theo definitely loves to eat, and Daria makes good use of her collection of toys she's been sent to review (and shares :)).
Glad I read this one. From Kindle Unlimited.
also i would love a disco balls akimbo birthday party please and thank you.
actual rating 4.5 stars
A contemporary romance like what I've been pining for. Tightly focused on the main couple, full of swoon-worthy moments, excellent banter, and soooo much sexual tension, and no big traumas on page, I loved it.
Dr. Theo Chadwick, a relationship expert with his psychology PhD, is the polar opposite of "I'm here to teach you to love yourself self and perpetual single since being left at the altar" Daria Stone. Both are popular talk radio show hosts, but their indie station is struggling and needs to cut costs - so combines their shows too boost numbers with their rivalry (both on air and in competitions their producers throw them into). But their on air rivalry turns into in-person intimacy as they both find they are drawn together.
But as opportunity knocks, can perpetually single Daria give up her brand to have a happily ever after?
Theo is such a dream boat, and the way these two talked through their fears and worries was super refreshing. Despite the pining and some angst, there was no third-act break up (more of a please trust me I need a couple days) moment.
ALSO SO SO hot. Theo definitely loves to eat, and Daria makes good use of her collection of toys she's been sent to review (and shares :)).
Glad I read this one. From Kindle Unlimited.
June 13, 2022
3.75/5 ✰
- thank you twss publishing for sending me this book!
now THIS was a healthy relationship. probably the healthiest relationship i’ve ever read.
as to rival radio show hosts, daria & theo never thought they’d have to deal with each more than in passing. but when their shows are forced to be combined, they must meet their rivalry head on.
i love enemies to lovers with all my being, so i was super excited to get into this! the overall dynamic between these two was FILLED with tension. they are so perfectly equal to each other in every way! i loved watching their rivalry grow from banter, to flirting, to SHUTTING EACH OTHER UP WITH KISSES ??? yup. not only did this book NOT have a third act break up, but their communication was the IDEAL amount you’d want in a relationship.
theo is all about true love and meeting soulmates and i absolutely LOVED HIM FOR IT. i want to give him a hug. and the way daria’s the one who buys HIM flowers?? CRYING.
daria is all about being independent and i loved watching her realize that you’re able to love yourself and also love someone else. it’s difficult after what she went through to put trust in someone else, but i loved reading her journey.
in the end, the only thing that didn’t work for me was simply the style of writing. HOWEVER, i am definitely interested in checking out kathryn nolan’s books again!
- thank you twss publishing for sending me this book!
now THIS was a healthy relationship. probably the healthiest relationship i’ve ever read.
as to rival radio show hosts, daria & theo never thought they’d have to deal with each more than in passing. but when their shows are forced to be combined, they must meet their rivalry head on.
i love enemies to lovers with all my being, so i was super excited to get into this! the overall dynamic between these two was FILLED with tension. they are so perfectly equal to each other in every way! i loved watching their rivalry grow from banter, to flirting, to SHUTTING EACH OTHER UP WITH KISSES ??? yup. not only did this book NOT have a third act break up, but their communication was the IDEAL amount you’d want in a relationship.
theo is all about true love and meeting soulmates and i absolutely LOVED HIM FOR IT. i want to give him a hug. and the way daria’s the one who buys HIM flowers?? CRYING.
daria is all about being independent and i loved watching her realize that you’re able to love yourself and also love someone else. it’s difficult after what she went through to put trust in someone else, but i loved reading her journey.
in the end, the only thing that didn’t work for me was simply the style of writing. HOWEVER, i am definitely interested in checking out kathryn nolan’s books again!
May 20, 2022
Enemies to lovers is probably my favorite trope so I couldn’t wait to start this! This had so many things I love about a romance.
• Strong heroine
• Chemistry
• Angst
• Smexy time
• Adorable, fight for what he wants MAN.
• HEA
• Favorite quote: “Perfection is outdated”.
Daria and Theo were just what I needed. And I also loved all the side characters. Kathryn Nolan is my go to author for the romance fix I need on a regular basic. She writes the perfect amount of conflict, fun, heat and romance I crave. I highly recommend this book as a summer read.
Thanks Rick for my ARC!
• Strong heroine
• Chemistry
• Angst
• Smexy time
• Adorable, fight for what he wants MAN.
• HEA
• Favorite quote: “Perfection is outdated”.
Daria and Theo were just what I needed. And I also loved all the side characters. Kathryn Nolan is my go to author for the romance fix I need on a regular basic. She writes the perfect amount of conflict, fun, heat and romance I crave. I highly recommend this book as a summer read.
Thanks Rick for my ARC!
July 13, 2024
four stars! ⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚ i literally have to be up in a few hours but i could not stop reading this oh my lord!
i was sucked in immediately by the banter between the two main characters, and from there i loved every single moment of this book. daria and theo are two of the most emotionally secure people i have ever read about. there was no toxicity, no miscommunication, nothing. they were so open and honest and trusting with one another and it was like a damn breath of fresh air! it was amazing! and the fact that there was no third act breakup, in fact they ✨talked shit out like adults should✨ was literally phenomenal. i was shouting from the rooftops in excitement!
one of my favorite things about this novel was that the relationship wasn’t lust driven at all. like sure, there was sexual tension (and damn, was it good!) but daria and theo were attracted to each other in so many different ways and i loved that it just wasn’t physical. i feel like with romances lately there’s just that huge push of physical attraction that influences their emotions/thoughts and it never usually turns out good (cough, third act breakup bc they don’t know how to fucking communicate bc all they do is fuck, cough) which admittedly i have read and loved books like that but it’s just so nice not having that be the main attraction between the characters !!
i just loved basically everything about this. all of the characters were fleshed out and served a purpose, and i loved all of the friendships and relationships within the radio station community. this book definitely serves the found family trope and i was just !!!!!! hella stoked for it. the epilogue genuinely made me tear up in the best way. this book was genuinely just so great. it was such a fun and entertaining read. and honestly, this book is what ‘the hating game’ wishes it was. plus, it had a paintball scene inspired by ‘10 things i hate about you’??? arguably the best romcom ever?? yes, please!! i fuckin loved this book <333
i was sucked in immediately by the banter between the two main characters, and from there i loved every single moment of this book. daria and theo are two of the most emotionally secure people i have ever read about. there was no toxicity, no miscommunication, nothing. they were so open and honest and trusting with one another and it was like a damn breath of fresh air! it was amazing! and the fact that there was no third act breakup, in fact they ✨talked shit out like adults should✨ was literally phenomenal. i was shouting from the rooftops in excitement!
one of my favorite things about this novel was that the relationship wasn’t lust driven at all. like sure, there was sexual tension (and damn, was it good!) but daria and theo were attracted to each other in so many different ways and i loved that it just wasn’t physical. i feel like with romances lately there’s just that huge push of physical attraction that influences their emotions/thoughts and it never usually turns out good (cough, third act breakup bc they don’t know how to fucking communicate bc all they do is fuck, cough) which admittedly i have read and loved books like that but it’s just so nice not having that be the main attraction between the characters !!
i just loved basically everything about this. all of the characters were fleshed out and served a purpose, and i loved all of the friendships and relationships within the radio station community. this book definitely serves the found family trope and i was just !!!!!! hella stoked for it. the epilogue genuinely made me tear up in the best way. this book was genuinely just so great. it was such a fun and entertaining read. and honestly, this book is what ‘the hating game’ wishes it was. plus, it had a paintball scene inspired by ‘10 things i hate about you’??? arguably the best romcom ever?? yes, please!! i fuckin loved this book <333
May 21, 2022
This is hands down my all time favorite book of Kathryns. It was sexy, funny, flirty, with ALL the top notch banter, and it was so emotional at the same time. Theo and Daria are both just phenomenal characters and I adored them both so much!!
So these two characters have been rivals at their radio station from day one: Daria is all about sex positivity regardless of what that looks like for you, and finding your own happiness within yourself. She was burned badly by her ex fiance and has vowed to never again be so lost in another person that she forgets who she is. Then there's Theo, who's all about true love, despite not ever finding it for himself or having positive role models for the right kind of love. Because of budget restrictions, these two are forced to work together and essentially combine their shows and give the ultimate advice to their callers, and they find that they just might not be that different after all. And that they need each other more than they realized.
Guys, I just can't tell you enough how much I loved this book!! It was just so freaking fabulous!! I had a huge grin on my face the entire time, and didn't want this book to end. Plus the sexual chemistry between these two?! HAWT.🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
This book is exactly what I needed and it gave me one hell of a book hangover, but you can bet your booties that this is one of my favorite reads of the year! Go one click now!!
**************************************
This book was exactly what I needed in my life: hilarious, fun, sexy, open and honest. No major conflict, just learning how to love yourself and your partner in the purest form. The banter between Theo and Daria was just *chefs kiss * brilliant, and I honestly didn't want this to end. Total five star read!!
** Full RTC
**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions **
So these two characters have been rivals at their radio station from day one: Daria is all about sex positivity regardless of what that looks like for you, and finding your own happiness within yourself. She was burned badly by her ex fiance and has vowed to never again be so lost in another person that she forgets who she is. Then there's Theo, who's all about true love, despite not ever finding it for himself or having positive role models for the right kind of love. Because of budget restrictions, these two are forced to work together and essentially combine their shows and give the ultimate advice to their callers, and they find that they just might not be that different after all. And that they need each other more than they realized.
Guys, I just can't tell you enough how much I loved this book!! It was just so freaking fabulous!! I had a huge grin on my face the entire time, and didn't want this book to end. Plus the sexual chemistry between these two?! HAWT.🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
This book is exactly what I needed and it gave me one hell of a book hangover, but you can bet your booties that this is one of my favorite reads of the year! Go one click now!!
**************************************
This book was exactly what I needed in my life: hilarious, fun, sexy, open and honest. No major conflict, just learning how to love yourself and your partner in the purest form. The banter between Theo and Daria was just *chefs kiss * brilliant, and I honestly didn't want this to end. Total five star read!!
** Full RTC
**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions **
June 8, 2022
⭐⭐⭐ "I was now a man suspended in a permanent state of desperate longing for my raven-haired rival."
What You'll Find:
✔️Workplace Romance
✔️Enemies to Lovers
✔️Cinnamon Roll Hero
✔️Opposites
✔️Slow Burn
✔️Dual POV
MINI REVIEW
I adore this author's writing. But honestly I have a very mixed bag of feelings on this one. And they are mostly all 'me' issues. So let's just break it down... with a grain of salt okay?
What worked for me:
-The second half
-Super sweet ending
-Effective communication
-Found family feel
-Sexy encounters
-Cinnamon roll hero who can dirty talk
-LGBTQ rep
What didn't work for me:
-Psychological/relationship talk
-Slow Pace
As you can see there is so much to like. But for some reason I just couldn't fully connect to this story. I didn't feel what I needed to feel. It took me half the story and a little break, to get into. And by then the psychological talk/advice (all great positive talk) had overshadowed the couples connection for me. I also think I had this expectation of it being a steamy radio talk show based on the tagline on the cover and it wasn't that... sabotaging my own reading experience all on my own. Basically, it's not you it's me, type of situation. So do check it out for yourself if this sounds like your read because there is much to enjoy and love. I look forward to reading my next read by this author soon. She is not to be missed.
*I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
What You'll Find:
✔️Workplace Romance
✔️Enemies to Lovers
✔️Cinnamon Roll Hero
✔️Opposites
✔️Slow Burn
✔️Dual POV
MINI REVIEW
I adore this author's writing. But honestly I have a very mixed bag of feelings on this one. And they are mostly all 'me' issues. So let's just break it down... with a grain of salt okay?
What worked for me:
-The second half
-Super sweet ending
-Effective communication
-Found family feel
-Sexy encounters
-Cinnamon roll hero who can dirty talk
-LGBTQ rep
What didn't work for me:
-Psychological/relationship talk
-Slow Pace
As you can see there is so much to like. But for some reason I just couldn't fully connect to this story. I didn't feel what I needed to feel. It took me half the story and a little break, to get into. And by then the psychological talk/advice (all great positive talk) had overshadowed the couples connection for me. I also think I had this expectation of it being a steamy radio talk show based on the tagline on the cover and it wasn't that... sabotaging my own reading experience all on my own. Basically, it's not you it's me, type of situation. So do check it out for yourself if this sounds like your read because there is much to enjoy and love. I look forward to reading my next read by this author soon. She is not to be missed.
*I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
May 24, 2022
Hands down the healthiest romance novel I've ever read...
I feel like I just went to therapy and came out awakened and alive when it comes to reading romance! Well... not for long. I'm sure I'll read something nuts soon. But man, was this book refreshing.
📚 𝗧𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗲: Enemies-to-Lovers, Opposites Attract, Workplace romance.
📖 𝗦𝘆𝗻𝗼𝗽𝘀𝗶𝘀: Theo has a doctorate and a radio show that helps people find love. Daria started her self help show after being left at the altar, and vows to never fall in love again. When their radio station gets in financial trouble, their boss pairs them to work together on a combined show, despite their hate for one another.
🌟 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄: If I had to show an example of perfectly written enemies-to-lovers, to me, this would be it.
Theo and Daria argued like no other. Their actual opposing views on live and love so easily pit them against eachother. And they very slowly thawed into understanding before melting into love. It. Was. So. Good.
When I say this book was healthy, I mean it. These two talked... talked and were vulnerable and actually communicated to one another. Both were flawed and never had to fix those flaws to find love and accept one another. And the way they spoke about love and relationships had me as a reader thinking about my life and love.
If I didn't have a Bookstagram to take care of, I'd spend the summer reading Kathryn Nolan's backlist. You all know how much I loved Out of the Blue, but I also gave 5 stars to On the Ropes. She just has this way of writing great characters, plot that doesn't rely on drama to drive it forward, and everything feels so real.
𝗙𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 3.5/5 🌶🌶🌶
🆓️ on KU
I feel like I just went to therapy and came out awakened and alive when it comes to reading romance! Well... not for long. I'm sure I'll read something nuts soon. But man, was this book refreshing.
📚 𝗧𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗲: Enemies-to-Lovers, Opposites Attract, Workplace romance.
📖 𝗦𝘆𝗻𝗼𝗽𝘀𝗶𝘀: Theo has a doctorate and a radio show that helps people find love. Daria started her self help show after being left at the altar, and vows to never fall in love again. When their radio station gets in financial trouble, their boss pairs them to work together on a combined show, despite their hate for one another.
🌟 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄: If I had to show an example of perfectly written enemies-to-lovers, to me, this would be it.
Theo and Daria argued like no other. Their actual opposing views on live and love so easily pit them against eachother. And they very slowly thawed into understanding before melting into love. It. Was. So. Good.
When I say this book was healthy, I mean it. These two talked... talked and were vulnerable and actually communicated to one another. Both were flawed and never had to fix those flaws to find love and accept one another. And the way they spoke about love and relationships had me as a reader thinking about my life and love.
If I didn't have a Bookstagram to take care of, I'd spend the summer reading Kathryn Nolan's backlist. You all know how much I loved Out of the Blue, but I also gave 5 stars to On the Ropes. She just has this way of writing great characters, plot that doesn't rely on drama to drive it forward, and everything feels so real.
𝗙𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 3.5/5 🌶🌶🌶
🆓️ on KU
May 11, 2022
I NEEDED THIS BOOK ALL MY LIFE! No you don't understand. This book THIS BOOK HAS EVERYTHING I CRAVE FOR.
I was bummed out before reading this because of another bad read but lord this one came as a gift from heaven.
Kathryn in my opinion is a highly underrated author. Her writing has that pull that sweeps you into a fictional world and its characters. I love the portrayal of the h and the H. They almost felt real to me and I always appreciate authors who try something non-cliche. H here is a huge romantic at heart who believes in love and soul mate and you get the gist, h, on the other hand, believes in prioritizing the love you have for yourself.
And they have a radio show about their respective opinions where they give advice. Due to the direct conflict of interest, they are rivals. I love that. Most times when I see a book promoted as rivals to lovers, they just say it to push their book into a popular trope but this book has it. Their romance can very easily ruin their careers and their rivalry is very must real because they fight got sponsorships.
The book is also filled with strong women who don't back down from societal pressure.
I didn't expect to love it the way I did. It was a shock but also I did love another book by the author.
It's a must-read if you enjoy rivals to lovers, forbidden Romance, workplace Romance, and badass women.
ARC was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
I was bummed out before reading this because of another bad read but lord this one came as a gift from heaven.
Kathryn in my opinion is a highly underrated author. Her writing has that pull that sweeps you into a fictional world and its characters. I love the portrayal of the h and the H. They almost felt real to me and I always appreciate authors who try something non-cliche. H here is a huge romantic at heart who believes in love and soul mate and you get the gist, h, on the other hand, believes in prioritizing the love you have for yourself.
And they have a radio show about their respective opinions where they give advice. Due to the direct conflict of interest, they are rivals. I love that. Most times when I see a book promoted as rivals to lovers, they just say it to push their book into a popular trope but this book has it. Their romance can very easily ruin their careers and their rivalry is very must real because they fight got sponsorships.
The book is also filled with strong women who don't back down from societal pressure.
I didn't expect to love it the way I did. It was a shock but also I did love another book by the author.
It's a must-read if you enjoy rivals to lovers, forbidden Romance, workplace Romance, and badass women.
ARC was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
September 21, 2022
This was just the poor man’s version of The Hating Game/ The Ex Talk…
July 11, 2022
This book relies heavily on exposition. There were so many times I felt like the author was pushing the self love narrative that it got cringy. Instead of allowing the characters to grow and develop and show their points of view they just doubled down on explaining their takes on relationships over and over again. Great characters show their points of view they don’t need to explain them. Repeatedly.
I also found the LGTBQ representation in the book really poor. The fact that the only reason that someone would choose to not be in a relationship is that they are hurt by a relationship or closeted feels really yucky to me. Also the best friend got to have one soliloquy about her sexuality that wasn’t even integrated into the story line. It very much felt like an afterthought at best or pandering at worst.
The book could have been half the word count and it would have benefited greatly. It took a solid three chapters and an epilogue to put it to bed where a chapter would have done. And that held through throughout the book.
The chemistry of the characters is off. Nothing about what they do feels like they are connecting. Their relationship ends up feeling boring. Like a slow burn friends to lovers.
******Slight spoiler********
The sex toy talk also got to be tedious. Sex toys were brought up so many times. Sometimes it was just as a mention with nothing that drove the story forward.
I really thought it odd that the author described the drawers the sex toys were housed in as filled with candles and oils and sex toys because masterbation taught her as much about herself as meditation and other things did. It felt like a really odd commentary mid scene.
Also it’s kind of disappointing that they end up married. Just saying…. With all that build up they couldn’t have had a happy ending that wasn’t marriage. That felt off.
****End slight spoiler*****
Overall, I think the writing style just isn’t for me. It took me three days to finish this book. And I wish I had dnf’d it.
I also found the LGTBQ representation in the book really poor. The fact that the only reason that someone would choose to not be in a relationship is that they are hurt by a relationship or closeted feels really yucky to me. Also the best friend got to have one soliloquy about her sexuality that wasn’t even integrated into the story line. It very much felt like an afterthought at best or pandering at worst.
The book could have been half the word count and it would have benefited greatly. It took a solid three chapters and an epilogue to put it to bed where a chapter would have done. And that held through throughout the book.
The chemistry of the characters is off. Nothing about what they do feels like they are connecting. Their relationship ends up feeling boring. Like a slow burn friends to lovers.
******Slight spoiler********
The sex toy talk also got to be tedious. Sex toys were brought up so many times. Sometimes it was just as a mention with nothing that drove the story forward.
I really thought it odd that the author described the drawers the sex toys were housed in as filled with candles and oils and sex toys because masterbation taught her as much about herself as meditation and other things did. It felt like a really odd commentary mid scene.
Also it’s kind of disappointing that they end up married. Just saying…. With all that build up they couldn’t have had a happy ending that wasn’t marriage. That felt off.
****End slight spoiler*****
Overall, I think the writing style just isn’t for me. It took me three days to finish this book. And I wish I had dnf’d it.
June 7, 2022
Rival Radio was a great opposites attract, enemies to friends to lovers romance. Yes, it's a romance, but it's also a book about being brave, loving yourself, and making your own family.
Things to look forward to:
- Tropes like: workplace romance, taboo/forbidden, forced proximity, enemies to friends to lovers, opposites attract
- Theo is such an ooey gooey cinnamon roll. I loved that he was the romantic and Team Relationship, while Daria was firmly Team Single.
- Awesome secondary characters and found family. The friendships were really wonderful and I especially loved Theo's relationship with Janis and Daria's relationship with her mom.
- The steamy scenes were smoking hot! I loved that Theo and Daria were not shy about what they wanted and how they wanted it. It was awesome to see how in tune they were to the other's needs and desires. Also, YES to all the toys! ;)
- I really appreciated that Daria and Theo communicated! There was no silly misunderstanding or unnecessary drama at the end. When things got complicated, they talked, listened, and handled things maturely.
The writing was really wonderful, but the book did start a little on the slower side for me. It also took a bit for me to feel the chemistry between Daria and Theo, but once I did - wow. *fans self* I enjoyed seeing their relationship shift and change as the book progressed, but some of the radio details were overwhelming and made the book feel too long. Overall, this was an entertaining novel and I'm looking forward to reading more books by Kathryn Nolan in the future!
CW: parental abandonment/estrangement, divorce, FMC is left at the alter on her wedding day (past)
*I voluntarily read a review copy of this book*
Things to look forward to:
- Tropes like: workplace romance, taboo/forbidden, forced proximity, enemies to friends to lovers, opposites attract
- Theo is such an ooey gooey cinnamon roll. I loved that he was the romantic and Team Relationship, while Daria was firmly Team Single.
- Awesome secondary characters and found family. The friendships were really wonderful and I especially loved Theo's relationship with Janis and Daria's relationship with her mom.
- The steamy scenes were smoking hot! I loved that Theo and Daria were not shy about what they wanted and how they wanted it. It was awesome to see how in tune they were to the other's needs and desires. Also, YES to all the toys! ;)
- I really appreciated that Daria and Theo communicated! There was no silly misunderstanding or unnecessary drama at the end. When things got complicated, they talked, listened, and handled things maturely.
The writing was really wonderful, but the book did start a little on the slower side for me. It also took a bit for me to feel the chemistry between Daria and Theo, but once I did - wow. *fans self* I enjoyed seeing their relationship shift and change as the book progressed, but some of the radio details were overwhelming and made the book feel too long. Overall, this was an entertaining novel and I'm looking forward to reading more books by Kathryn Nolan in the future!
CW: parental abandonment/estrangement, divorce, FMC is left at the alter on her wedding day (past)
*I voluntarily read a review copy of this book*
May 18, 2022
if you're looking for
enemies to lovers
chemistry
angst
a hero who loves to love
& a strong heroine..
look no further this is the book for you.
to me, this was much more than just your typical romance novel, it was a book of self discovery and growth. Two people with different views on love, yet they learn new things from one another.
Life is toooo short to be anything, but true to yourself.
"𝙉𝙤 𝙚𝙢𝙥𝙩𝙮 𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙢𝙞𝙨𝙚𝙨｡"
Theo had me melting for him from the start, I've never read a book like this before, where we have two radio host, that go from having their own shows about love (one helping with relationships and one helping people love themselves and help people realize you don't need a relationship to be happy.)
"𝘸𝘦 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦𝘯'𝘵 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘣𝘦𝘨𝘶𝘯, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘢𝘭𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘺 𝘢 𝘨𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘳 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘩𝘦𝘳."
but only 4 months into Daria working there... her and Theo now have to Co-Host a radio show, while making it seem like they don't actually despise one another..
"𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘢𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘤 𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘷𝘦𝘴 𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘢𝘵 𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘰𝘥𝘥𝘴. 𝘈𝘯𝘥 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘪𝘳𝘴𝘵 𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘮𝘺 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦, 𝘐 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥𝘯'𝘵 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘵 𝘪𝘯 𝘮𝘺𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧 𝘵𝘰 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘦."
can we also just talk about that paintball scene for a hot minute?
It gave me all the vibes of '10 things I hate about you' while reading it, and learning that Kathryn got the inspo from that movie when I read the Acknowledgments made me so happy!
I highlighted SO many things in this book, I cannot wait to get a paperback when they come out, simply so I can reread and tab my physical copy!
thank you so much Rick and Kathryn for the arc!!
enemies to lovers
chemistry
angst
a hero who loves to love
& a strong heroine..
look no further this is the book for you.
to me, this was much more than just your typical romance novel, it was a book of self discovery and growth. Two people with different views on love, yet they learn new things from one another.
Life is toooo short to be anything, but true to yourself.
"𝙉𝙤 𝙚𝙢𝙥𝙩𝙮 𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙢𝙞𝙨𝙚𝙨｡"
Theo had me melting for him from the start, I've never read a book like this before, where we have two radio host, that go from having their own shows about love (one helping with relationships and one helping people love themselves and help people realize you don't need a relationship to be happy.)
"𝘸𝘦 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦𝘯'𝘵 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘣𝘦𝘨𝘶𝘯, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘢𝘭𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘺 𝘢 𝘨𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘳 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘩𝘦𝘳."
but only 4 months into Daria working there... her and Theo now have to Co-Host a radio show, while making it seem like they don't actually despise one another..
"𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘢𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘤 𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘷𝘦𝘴 𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘢𝘵 𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘰𝘥𝘥𝘴. 𝘈𝘯𝘥 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘪𝘳𝘴𝘵 𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘮𝘺 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦, 𝘐 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥𝘯'𝘵 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘵 𝘪𝘯 𝘮𝘺𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧 𝘵𝘰 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘦."
can we also just talk about that paintball scene for a hot minute?
It gave me all the vibes of '10 things I hate about you' while reading it, and learning that Kathryn got the inspo from that movie when I read the Acknowledgments made me so happy!
I highlighted SO many things in this book, I cannot wait to get a paperback when they come out, simply so I can reread and tab my physical copy!
thank you so much Rick and Kathryn for the arc!!
May 8, 2022
There are some things you know you'll get when you get a book from Kathryn...badass women, the men who love them and a quirky cast of characters that you can't help but fall in love with. Oh yeah...and off the charts sexual tension! No one does it better than Kathryn!
Daria is the badass friend we all need in our lives. She is unflinchingly herself and I love how she takes control and power over what she wants in life. She is such an incredible and complex character and I fucking love everything about her! She is vulnerable but still fierce in everything she believes and it's truly a beautiful thing to read!
And Theo? Theo is sexy and swoony and I love how he confidently knows what he wants in life and goes after it! The tension between these two simmers and had me aching for them to get together! The trust between the two of them was beautiful to read! They are fun and fiery and passionate together and I loved it!
I love the beautiful worlds that Kathryn creates, because they are loud and joyful and vibrant and she reminds you that it's okay to be weird and wonderful. Every book I read of hers is a new favorite of mine and I LOVE LOVE LOVE Rival Radio and the KSUN family!
Daria is the badass friend we all need in our lives. She is unflinchingly herself and I love how she takes control and power over what she wants in life. She is such an incredible and complex character and I fucking love everything about her! She is vulnerable but still fierce in everything she believes and it's truly a beautiful thing to read!
And Theo? Theo is sexy and swoony and I love how he confidently knows what he wants in life and goes after it! The tension between these two simmers and had me aching for them to get together! The trust between the two of them was beautiful to read! They are fun and fiery and passionate together and I loved it!
I love the beautiful worlds that Kathryn creates, because they are loud and joyful and vibrant and she reminds you that it's okay to be weird and wonderful. Every book I read of hers is a new favorite of mine and I LOVE LOVE LOVE Rival Radio and the KSUN family!
May 20, 2022
Kathryn Nolan at her BEST! The tension-filled banter that catches fire (and I do mean fire, one of the steamiest scenes I've ever read from Kathryn or ever gave me a new life goal), the soul-sighing romance, the extended found family that gives this love story so much heart, and the yearning to love yourself and make the world the better place after you close the book. I wanted to bring Theo in for a hug so many times for how he grew up and still fought for love, and applaud badass Daria for taking her biggest humiliation and using it for empowerment. You'd think they were oil and water with all the cheap shots they took at each other but they were two sticks of dynamite - and when they finally explode it's romance perfection. A top read of 2022!
June 14, 2022
3 STARS
I don't know what happened but this book lost me after the 60% mark.
I mean, the first half was going great. All the tension between Theo and Daria was off the charts. I agree with Daria and her brand of loving yourself. But somewhere along the way, it lost me. I think it was because everything sounds so repetitive. From Daria's constant mention of how she was left by Christopher on the altar (a very asshole move, by the way) to the advice that came off redundant at some point.
Nonetheless, I like that Theo and Daria were good at understanding and handling things once they acknowledge their differences (except for that time when they bicker, of course). If you like The Ex Talk, then you should check this out because this book definitely had The Ex Talk vibes.
I don't know what happened but this book lost me after the 60% mark.
I mean, the first half was going great. All the tension between Theo and Daria was off the charts. I agree with Daria and her brand of loving yourself. But somewhere along the way, it lost me. I think it was because everything sounds so repetitive. From Daria's constant mention of how she was left by Christopher on the altar (a very asshole move, by the way) to the advice that came off redundant at some point.
Nonetheless, I like that Theo and Daria were good at understanding and handling things once they acknowledge their differences (except for that time when they bicker, of course). If you like The Ex Talk, then you should check this out because this book definitely had The Ex Talk vibes.
August 24, 2022
These two had banter for days! Daria has a radio show about loving yourself and Theo's show is all about relationships and finding your soulmate. They couldn't disagree more with each other's views on the topic so when they are thrown together to do a show that will have them both giving advice together, that seems like a recipe for disaster.
What they don't count on is that seeing someone else's point of view might open them up to the possibility of so much more. I really enjoyed the amount of communication between these two characters. It was in abundance, which is completely different from most books I read where communication is the biggest issue. Daria and Theo were so refreshing because they were able to get through problems by just openly telling the other what was wrong! It's a novel idea isn't it? So many things would be avoided, if we just talked it out. Also, this one really hit home with "showing people who you really are and letting them love you". So often we pretty up the version of ourselves that we put out there and when we lose the shine, we lose our partner. I love that Theo loved every version of Daria and proved to her that he would be there no matter what.
This is a new to me author but I will definitely be picking up more.
What they don't count on is that seeing someone else's point of view might open them up to the possibility of so much more. I really enjoyed the amount of communication between these two characters. It was in abundance, which is completely different from most books I read where communication is the biggest issue. Daria and Theo were so refreshing because they were able to get through problems by just openly telling the other what was wrong! It's a novel idea isn't it? So many things would be avoided, if we just talked it out. Also, this one really hit home with "showing people who you really are and letting them love you". So often we pretty up the version of ourselves that we put out there and when we lose the shine, we lose our partner. I love that Theo loved every version of Daria and proved to her that he would be there no matter what.
This is a new to me author but I will definitely be picking up more.
May 19, 2022
The Perfect Rivalry, The Best Book Hangover
I never thought Kathryn Nolan could write a better enemies-to-lovers novel than Out of the Blue. Then she wrote Rival Radio. And I am absolutely blown away by Daria, Theo, the rest of the K-SUN FM family, and Nolan’s ability to pull me so deeply into a book that I feel completely lost without more from those characters.
Kathryn knows how to bring the heat and steam in her books, and she definitely brought it once again, but Rival Radio brought so much more of everything as well. Honestly, it's one of the most honestly beautiful & introspective books I've read in a very long time. Using Theo and Daria’s viewpoints to build their characters, Kathryn also creates a sense of belonging within her readers. No matter where you fall on the spectrum of love and relationships, you will feel seen through their words and actions. And let’s talk about Kathryn’s beautiful integration of minor characters who really don’t feel all that minor at all. They are catalysts, and mirrors, moving the pace of the plot along, creating opportunities for every character to grow, and becoming fully engaged in the outcome of the main characters along with the reader. And yes, there is a beautiful HEA complete with a grand gesture, but in typical Kathryn Nolan fashion there’s nothing typical about it.
I love highlighting unique, fun, and memorable passages on my Kindle. In a typical book, I highlight maybe 1 or 2 passages every 3 or 4 chapters. In Rival Radio, I have multiple highlights in every chapter. There is so much delightful witty banter between the characters. But mixed in with that banter are beautifully deep observations about life and love in general, bolstering the developing relationship between the characters in the book, and creating so many “wow” moments that I want to remember them all.
This was a book I wanted to stay up late to read, but at the same time I wanted to stretch out over as many days as possible to savor the time with the characters and their words.
They say the perfect person comes along at exactly the perfect time, if you’re open to accepting their part in your life. I can say the same about this book. It was an unexpected ARC that arrived at exactly the time I needed this story, these characters, and this immersion in their lives.
I never thought Kathryn Nolan could write a better enemies-to-lovers novel than Out of the Blue. Then she wrote Rival Radio. And I am absolutely blown away by Daria, Theo, the rest of the K-SUN FM family, and Nolan’s ability to pull me so deeply into a book that I feel completely lost without more from those characters.
Kathryn knows how to bring the heat and steam in her books, and she definitely brought it once again, but Rival Radio brought so much more of everything as well. Honestly, it's one of the most honestly beautiful & introspective books I've read in a very long time. Using Theo and Daria’s viewpoints to build their characters, Kathryn also creates a sense of belonging within her readers. No matter where you fall on the spectrum of love and relationships, you will feel seen through their words and actions. And let’s talk about Kathryn’s beautiful integration of minor characters who really don’t feel all that minor at all. They are catalysts, and mirrors, moving the pace of the plot along, creating opportunities for every character to grow, and becoming fully engaged in the outcome of the main characters along with the reader. And yes, there is a beautiful HEA complete with a grand gesture, but in typical Kathryn Nolan fashion there’s nothing typical about it.
I love highlighting unique, fun, and memorable passages on my Kindle. In a typical book, I highlight maybe 1 or 2 passages every 3 or 4 chapters. In Rival Radio, I have multiple highlights in every chapter. There is so much delightful witty banter between the characters. But mixed in with that banter are beautifully deep observations about life and love in general, bolstering the developing relationship between the characters in the book, and creating so many “wow” moments that I want to remember them all.
This was a book I wanted to stay up late to read, but at the same time I wanted to stretch out over as many days as possible to savor the time with the characters and their words.
They say the perfect person comes along at exactly the perfect time, if you’re open to accepting their part in your life. I can say the same about this book. It was an unexpected ARC that arrived at exactly the time I needed this story, these characters, and this immersion in their lives.
May 24, 2022
4.5 stars rounded up. Ok guys, I liked this story. Like really really liked this story. Rival Radio is more than just a romance, it’s also an honest discourse about love and relationships. And I absolutely loved that a big theme in this book was that the most important relationship that you have and need to cultivate is the one you have with yourself. But with all of that said, this was also just a really enjoyable romance. Tropes include opposites attract, enemies to lovers, and workplace romance.
Daria is still feeling the scars of her last relationship, several years later. And she has used her life experiences to give advice to others. The premise is that you don’t need marriage or soul mates to be happy, all you need is to love herself. And given Daria’s dedication to the cause, she has vowed to remain single for life. Theo is the complete opposite. I’ve never read a male character so desperately want to fall in love, believe in soul mates, and crave marriage. It was refreshing to see such a pro relationship perspective applied to the male character. And obviously, it’s completely antithetical to Daria’s précis. So naturally, the two are forced to work together, in a joint radio show, giving dating advice to locals that call in. I loved the honest conversations these two had, the compromises they were willing to make, and their willingness (eventually) to learn from one another and be open to change. The pair had great chemistry, both when they were enemies and when they were dating. There were also several very steamy scenes. In all honesty, Nolan def nailed those. And another thing I loved was the found family aspect regarding their coworkers. All in all, I have nothing but good things to say about Rival Radio.
I voluntarily read this on kindle unlimited, but did end up receiving a paperback in the mail from the author. This did not impact my review at all.
Daria is still feeling the scars of her last relationship, several years later. And she has used her life experiences to give advice to others. The premise is that you don’t need marriage or soul mates to be happy, all you need is to love herself. And given Daria’s dedication to the cause, she has vowed to remain single for life. Theo is the complete opposite. I’ve never read a male character so desperately want to fall in love, believe in soul mates, and crave marriage. It was refreshing to see such a pro relationship perspective applied to the male character. And obviously, it’s completely antithetical to Daria’s précis. So naturally, the two are forced to work together, in a joint radio show, giving dating advice to locals that call in. I loved the honest conversations these two had, the compromises they were willing to make, and their willingness (eventually) to learn from one another and be open to change. The pair had great chemistry, both when they were enemies and when they were dating. There were also several very steamy scenes. In all honesty, Nolan def nailed those. And another thing I loved was the found family aspect regarding their coworkers. All in all, I have nothing but good things to say about Rival Radio.
I voluntarily read this on kindle unlimited, but did end up receiving a paperback in the mail from the author. This did not impact my review at all.
December 31, 2022
Thank you Rick and Kathryn for sending me this arc in exchange for an honest review!
—
Theo and Dario are two on-air rivals who have their own radio shows about their respective opinions where they give advice to others. At the risk of their station getting bought out, they have to put their feud on hold and play nice in a shared time slot in order to save their popular beach town radio station
OMG OMG this book. I love this book so much. The development of characters was just wonderful . The pacing of the entire storyline was amazing, the development from rivals to lovers top notch. This book was just so refreshing. The whole aspect of the radio station was done so well. Also, I just loved the familial bond. Daria and Theo were just what I needed.
Their communication was so good, how they try to understand each other without ever wanting to change the other ugh!!! Even though they have complete opposite views on love as Theo believes in soulmates and is a die hard romantic while Daria is all about self love and is a sworn bachelorette, they acknowledged and respected their differences which was just amazing to read about it. They continued to help each other while also learning so much from each other. This book was slow burn but there was so much tension and banter that when they got together, they were explosive. They went through a lot that had previously shaped their whole opinions on love, but they found comfort and trust in each other. Again, I loved this book, it was just what I needed.
I honestly didn’t think I would love it the way I did but I how could I not!
—
Theo and Dario are two on-air rivals who have their own radio shows about their respective opinions where they give advice to others. At the risk of their station getting bought out, they have to put their feud on hold and play nice in a shared time slot in order to save their popular beach town radio station
OMG OMG this book. I love this book so much. The development of characters was just wonderful . The pacing of the entire storyline was amazing, the development from rivals to lovers top notch. This book was just so refreshing. The whole aspect of the radio station was done so well. Also, I just loved the familial bond. Daria and Theo were just what I needed.
Their communication was so good, how they try to understand each other without ever wanting to change the other ugh!!! Even though they have complete opposite views on love as Theo believes in soulmates and is a die hard romantic while Daria is all about self love and is a sworn bachelorette, they acknowledged and respected their differences which was just amazing to read about it. They continued to help each other while also learning so much from each other. This book was slow burn but there was so much tension and banter that when they got together, they were explosive. They went through a lot that had previously shaped their whole opinions on love, but they found comfort and trust in each other. Again, I loved this book, it was just what I needed.
I honestly didn’t think I would love it the way I did but I how could I not!
May 9, 2022
I received an early influencer copy of this book. This does not impact my review of the story.
Now that that is out of the way, hot damn, this is the best book Kathryn Nolan has ever written. Keep in mind I've read her entire backlist and have rated everything previously as 4 stars (except one book which I rated 3). Theo and Daria are amazing both as individuals and as a couple.
This is an enemies to lovers, forced proximity, workplace romance for those of you looking for the tropes. There are also some very spicy scenes involving flat surfaces and one explosive one with vibrators. But it's also a book about staying true to who you are even if it means changing the way you once looked at things. I believe we call that growth. Watching Theo and Daria fall in love with each other was really wonderful. This was super low angst, no third act breakup, two absolute adults becoming lovers then friends then more. In addition, every side character was amazing, especially Magnolia and Janis. It's just a really joyous book and I'm so grateful for the early copy. Kathryn Nolan even wrote in the back about how it was her "have fun and be joyous" book and you can 100% tell.
Rival Radio comes out May 20. You don't want to miss it.
Now that that is out of the way, hot damn, this is the best book Kathryn Nolan has ever written. Keep in mind I've read her entire backlist and have rated everything previously as 4 stars (except one book which I rated 3). Theo and Daria are amazing both as individuals and as a couple.
This is an enemies to lovers, forced proximity, workplace romance for those of you looking for the tropes. There are also some very spicy scenes involving flat surfaces and one explosive one with vibrators. But it's also a book about staying true to who you are even if it means changing the way you once looked at things. I believe we call that growth. Watching Theo and Daria fall in love with each other was really wonderful. This was super low angst, no third act breakup, two absolute adults becoming lovers then friends then more. In addition, every side character was amazing, especially Magnolia and Janis. It's just a really joyous book and I'm so grateful for the early copy. Kathryn Nolan even wrote in the back about how it was her "have fun and be joyous" book and you can 100% tell.
Rival Radio comes out May 20. You don't want to miss it.
August 23, 2022
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UvDZU...
Blog: https://nanasbookreviews.wordpress.co...
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Rival Radio by Kathryn Nolan is a standalone romance.
It's an enemies to lovers romance, told by a dual pov. For the most part, is a fun and exciting book with many arguments and is short of flirtatious activity. But there are moments when it gets quite deep and emotional. The romance is a slow burn even though the sexual tension was there from the beginning. What I loved about this story is the radio shows that helped people with their personal life. The author manages to touch on topics that affect all of us. This is from those books that contain lessons. This one teaches about the importance of loving yourself, never giving up on love (any kind of love), and not giving a damn about what others think. The characters are incredible. Theo was the hopeless romantic and Daria the sworn bachelorette. But my favorite was by far Janis. She was the funniest and wisest of them all. The parts that I liked the most were when they were vulnerable.
I am glad that I got to read this book and I highly recommend it to all of you. I will rate it with 5 stars.
Blog: https://nanasbookreviews.wordpress.co...
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Rival Radio by Kathryn Nolan is a standalone romance.
It's an enemies to lovers romance, told by a dual pov. For the most part, is a fun and exciting book with many arguments and is short of flirtatious activity. But there are moments when it gets quite deep and emotional. The romance is a slow burn even though the sexual tension was there from the beginning. What I loved about this story is the radio shows that helped people with their personal life. The author manages to touch on topics that affect all of us. This is from those books that contain lessons. This one teaches about the importance of loving yourself, never giving up on love (any kind of love), and not giving a damn about what others think. The characters are incredible. Theo was the hopeless romantic and Daria the sworn bachelorette. But my favorite was by far Janis. She was the funniest and wisest of them all. The parts that I liked the most were when they were vulnerable.
I am glad that I got to read this book and I highly recommend it to all of you. I will rate it with 5 stars.
May 19, 2022
When you read a book that resonates so DEEPLY within your soul that you sit back and just FEEL. That is this book for me.
Rival Radio was more than just an enemies to lovers romance. It’s an experience of finding your true self, through your own beliefs, your own journey and loving YOURSELF, even while loving others.
Kathryn took these words and banded them together so beautifully that when it all ended, I didn’t want it to. I wanted more Theo. I wanted more Daria. I wanted more of K-SUN.
Everything about this book had me flipping the pages, needing and wanting more. The banter, the STEAM, the imagery. It was all beautifully pieced together to bring you a book that will hold itself within your heart long after you finish reading it.
Five stars for a book that is captivating and beautiful and everything we need and has solidified itself as one of my top reads for 2022.
Rival Radio was more than just an enemies to lovers romance. It’s an experience of finding your true self, through your own beliefs, your own journey and loving YOURSELF, even while loving others.
Kathryn took these words and banded them together so beautifully that when it all ended, I didn’t want it to. I wanted more Theo. I wanted more Daria. I wanted more of K-SUN.
Everything about this book had me flipping the pages, needing and wanting more. The banter, the STEAM, the imagery. It was all beautifully pieced together to bring you a book that will hold itself within your heart long after you finish reading it.
Five stars for a book that is captivating and beautiful and everything we need and has solidified itself as one of my top reads for 2022.
May 17, 2022
4.5 Stars!
This book brought me so much joy!
With an amble dose of enemies for this enemies to lovers book, there is so much delicious chemistry between Daria and Theo. Their radio station family was beyond hilarious and absolutely perfect. Especially Janis. Their found family was the absolute best.
“We’re messy, imperfect, contradictory humans that change their minds and grow, even when it’s not according to our plans.”
This book was so much more than romance, it was about growth and acceptance that our plans aren’t perfect, and life it too short to waste time on things that don’t bring us joy.
I highlighted so many wonderful quotes from this book. I can see this book sticking with me for a long time.
This book brought me so much joy!
With an amble dose of enemies for this enemies to lovers book, there is so much delicious chemistry between Daria and Theo. Their radio station family was beyond hilarious and absolutely perfect. Especially Janis. Their found family was the absolute best.
“We’re messy, imperfect, contradictory humans that change their minds and grow, even when it’s not according to our plans.”
This book was so much more than romance, it was about growth and acceptance that our plans aren’t perfect, and life it too short to waste time on things that don’t bring us joy.
I highlighted so many wonderful quotes from this book. I can see this book sticking with me for a long time.
June 23, 2022
it just felt super repetitive and i didn't exactly love the premise of it. they absolutely hated each other and then decided they wanted to be together after randomly hooking up. just didn't really feel the transition from despising one another to wanting to be in a committed relationship idk ??
July 10, 2022
Wow! What an introduction to an author I've been wanting to read for a while. Beautifully crafted story of the different kinds of love and how it looks to different people. Glorious diversity in characters and real growth in both main characters especially.
July 2, 2022
4.5 stars
Loved the chemistry and interaction
Kindle unlimited read
Loved the chemistry and interaction
Kindle unlimited read
Displaying 1 - 30 of 367 reviews