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The Situationship
When the love of her life shows up with a girlfriend, Tia decides it's time to put herself out there.
Expectations of dating apps are low, so it's a surprise when she instantly connects with handsome photographer Nate. He's everything she's looking for; he makes her feel safe, seen, and desired.
Tia assumes they're on the same page - the only catch? They're yet to have The Talk.
In a generation that's normalised competing over who cares the least, can Tia overcome her fears and lay her cards on the table, in the pursuit of something real?
Expectations of dating apps are low, so it's a surprise when she instantly connects with handsome photographer Nate. He's everything she's looking for; he makes her feel safe, seen, and desired.
Tia assumes they're on the same page - the only catch? They're yet to have The Talk.
In a generation that's normalised competing over who cares the least, can Tia overcome her fears and lay her cards on the table, in the pursuit of something real?
288 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 17, 2023
93 people are currently reading
2489 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 293 reviews
December 22, 2023
Im torn…
This is not a romance book and unfortunately I went into it thinking it was but according to the girlies it’s an accurate description on what dating in 2023 is like…if thats true I never wish to be in these dating streets again because wtf
Men like this are scary, they really be out here having top tier chemistry and banter with a girl, sleep with said girl and say things like “I wanna be more than friends” but turn around and not want labels and don’t want to belong to someone and want to “go with the flow”
It’s not a bad book, I was just expecting it to be a situationship that turns into a relationship…
This is not a romance book and unfortunately I went into it thinking it was but according to the girlies it’s an accurate description on what dating in 2023 is like…if thats true I never wish to be in these dating streets again because wtf
Men like this are scary, they really be out here having top tier chemistry and banter with a girl, sleep with said girl and say things like “I wanna be more than friends” but turn around and not want labels and don’t want to belong to someone and want to “go with the flow”
It’s not a bad book, I was just expecting it to be a situationship that turns into a relationship…
February 17, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 "I'm not gonna waste time on someone who can't appreciate what's right in front of them." I absolutely adored this book so much more than I expected. I am very sure that I have never read anything as current and relatable to date!
This book follows Tia, an aspiring journalist who has fancied one of her best friends, Aaron, until unexpectedly returns from the US with a new girlfriend on arm. In an act to help her move on her close-nit friend group urge her to download tinder, and after encountering numerous guys who are more suited a jail cell, Nate messages her. The book follows the issues regarding modern dating- the will-they-wont-they, the when do I need to ask them if this is a thing and what is this thing and do they even want to have a thing, and the dreaded "talk." However, this book is so so much more than just a romance. The best part of this book is Tia herself. Who is currently working as a researcher and the struggles she faces each and every day as a black women in the workplace. The book shows the micro-aggressions, the reactions of others to such, and how much extra she had to work to get her ideas across in her job.
I will start by saying how refreshing this book in its reflection in dating. There are barley any books (as far as I have read) so accurate to modern dating where the idea of a meet cute sounds like a miracle. The book highlights the difficulties with hinge- the endless unsolicited dick pics. the men who need to touch grass, and the over-sexualised conversations. It runs though the exact conversations many of us I am sure have had with our friends- how long to wait after replying (I advocate that the entire world eradicates this, it is the biggest waste of time) and the idea of the mysterious girl who must be sophisticated and laid back. I adored and definitely appreciate how this topic was approached in this book.
This book is very much current, there is no doubt that this book isn't set now. Like, right now. I usually despise this and audibly wretch when I read the word TikTok in a book. But here, it just made sense. While reading this book, it was as if I was looking through the window into someones life. The popular culture references did not put me off at all even the mentions of Molly Mae, Hinge, and my beloved Wetherspoons (I wept reading that). However, the downside to this book being so very modern is that I don't know if I would feel the same way whilst reading it in a couple of years. However, for those in their early 20s in particular, I highly recommend (but read it now while the references still stand)
The writing was incredibly easy to read. The start of the book is usually where I can tell whether a book is going to be a good read (yes, I am judgemental) and due to the writing there were characters introduced and I knew what role they held to the story, what relation they were to Tia due to how straight to the point some parts where. Everything was introduced so well without any unnecessary over-explanation. My only issue was that the dialogue felt clunky. One word that irked me was "innit". I use this word a lot in my life, but there was just something about reading it that just didn't work for me.
All in all, I cannot recommend this book enough, especially if you're in your early twenties. It is a very current read and focuses not only the issues of modern dating, but integrally, racial inequality faced in the workplace. Honestly, please read for the ending, it is absolutely perfect. I cannot explain how happy I was reading it. I genuinely could not stop smiling. Thank you netgalley for the arc!
This book follows Tia, an aspiring journalist who has fancied one of her best friends, Aaron, until unexpectedly returns from the US with a new girlfriend on arm. In an act to help her move on her close-nit friend group urge her to download tinder, and after encountering numerous guys who are more suited a jail cell, Nate messages her. The book follows the issues regarding modern dating- the will-they-wont-they, the when do I need to ask them if this is a thing and what is this thing and do they even want to have a thing, and the dreaded "talk." However, this book is so so much more than just a romance. The best part of this book is Tia herself. Who is currently working as a researcher and the struggles she faces each and every day as a black women in the workplace. The book shows the micro-aggressions, the reactions of others to such, and how much extra she had to work to get her ideas across in her job.
I will start by saying how refreshing this book in its reflection in dating. There are barley any books (as far as I have read) so accurate to modern dating where the idea of a meet cute sounds like a miracle. The book highlights the difficulties with hinge- the endless unsolicited dick pics. the men who need to touch grass, and the over-sexualised conversations. It runs though the exact conversations many of us I am sure have had with our friends- how long to wait after replying (I advocate that the entire world eradicates this, it is the biggest waste of time) and the idea of the mysterious girl who must be sophisticated and laid back. I adored and definitely appreciate how this topic was approached in this book.
This book is very much current, there is no doubt that this book isn't set now. Like, right now. I usually despise this and audibly wretch when I read the word TikTok in a book. But here, it just made sense. While reading this book, it was as if I was looking through the window into someones life. The popular culture references did not put me off at all even the mentions of Molly Mae, Hinge, and my beloved Wetherspoons (I wept reading that). However, the downside to this book being so very modern is that I don't know if I would feel the same way whilst reading it in a couple of years. However, for those in their early 20s in particular, I highly recommend (but read it now while the references still stand)
The writing was incredibly easy to read. The start of the book is usually where I can tell whether a book is going to be a good read (yes, I am judgemental) and due to the writing there were characters introduced and I knew what role they held to the story, what relation they were to Tia due to how straight to the point some parts where. Everything was introduced so well without any unnecessary over-explanation. My only issue was that the dialogue felt clunky. One word that irked me was "innit". I use this word a lot in my life, but there was just something about reading it that just didn't work for me.
All in all, I cannot recommend this book enough, especially if you're in your early twenties. It is a very current read and focuses not only the issues of modern dating, but integrally, racial inequality faced in the workplace. Honestly, please read for the ending, it is absolutely perfect. I cannot explain how happy I was reading it. I genuinely could not stop smiling. Thank you netgalley for the arc!
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July 13, 2023DNF @ 15%
I gave this book 5 chapters and unfortunately I just do not want to continue reading the book.
For a group of characters who are supposed to be in their mid-late twenties, they acted immature as hell and quite frankly it felt like I was reading dialogue between teenagers instead of adults.
This book is advertised as Merky Books’ “first rom-com” however by the fifth chapter I think it’s pretty clear that this is not a typical rom-com and seems more like women’s fiction.
Publishers really need to stop advertising women’s fiction as romance or as a rom-com simply bc there is a romance element to the book. I also think the synopsis on this one is also a bit misleading.
I even decided to skip the rest of the book and read the last two chapters to see if we get a typical rom-com end to the book - eg a happy ever after - and we don’t. The main character ends the book as a single woman. That’s not a romance book.
I understand this is a debut novel but I think it could’ve done with some more editing - the writing was repetitive (if I read the phrase “kissed her teeth” one more time istg) and there were too many pop culture references for my liking.
Thank you NetGalley and Merky Books for an early copy of The Situationship in exchange for my honest review.
I gave this book 5 chapters and unfortunately I just do not want to continue reading the book.
For a group of characters who are supposed to be in their mid-late twenties, they acted immature as hell and quite frankly it felt like I was reading dialogue between teenagers instead of adults.
This book is advertised as Merky Books’ “first rom-com” however by the fifth chapter I think it’s pretty clear that this is not a typical rom-com and seems more like women’s fiction.
Publishers really need to stop advertising women’s fiction as romance or as a rom-com simply bc there is a romance element to the book. I also think the synopsis on this one is also a bit misleading.
I even decided to skip the rest of the book and read the last two chapters to see if we get a typical rom-com end to the book - eg a happy ever after - and we don’t. The main character ends the book as a single woman. That’s not a romance book.
I understand this is a debut novel but I think it could’ve done with some more editing - the writing was repetitive (if I read the phrase “kissed her teeth” one more time istg) and there were too many pop culture references for my liking.
Thank you NetGalley and Merky Books for an early copy of The Situationship in exchange for my honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 27, 2025
Did it take me seven months to read this book? Yes it did!!! Anything I picked this book up it gave me severe headache(not even exaggerating 🤦🏾♀️) but I finally finished it today. Why not not DNF, because I’m a masochist and also I bought the paperback(realized this not a good enough reason I type this).
Long story short I did not like the story, the characters or the writing. It was all over descriptive, repetitive, juvenile and boring. But thank goodness i made it to the end 🙏🏾😂
PS: was this even a romance book? maybe a chit lit? 🤔🤷🏾♀️
Long story short I did not like the story, the characters or the writing. It was all over descriptive, repetitive, juvenile and boring. But thank goodness i made it to the end 🙏🏾😂
PS: was this even a romance book? maybe a chit lit? 🤔🤷🏾♀️
November 1, 2023
I absolutely loved being in Tia's world as she navigates being a writer in a predominantly white space, while trying to date. I loved how relatable she was and how the author really kept us interested in all that she was going through.
The ending was perfect!
The ending was perfect!
January 17, 2023
I feel like I'm on an absolute losing streaks with what I'm reading but for me, this was awful. I gelled with absolutely nothing about this book.
For one, it was overly descriptive. I was told, told, told until I wanted to scream. I don't think I've read, and enjoyed, a story where the main character describes every detail of not only her own, but all of her friends outfits, from their shoes to the jewelry they have on, since I was at least fourteen. If it isn't important to the story, you're just adding unnecessary word count. I just don't care. The same happened whenever a new character was introduced, no matter how minor their role. We'd get 2-3 paragraphs about their life or their role within Tia's life and again, I cannot stress this enough: I did not care!!!!!! I'm not here for useless filler. I want information relevant and important to the story. The author really struggled with that throughout this entire book - deciding what was important enough to include and what could be left out.
Secondly, the dialogue. It felt really immature at best and very repetitive at worst. I'm sure I counted three, maybe four times by the 15% mark that Tia had 'kissed her teeth'. I also just didn't gel with the dialogue in general. Slang has it's place in a lot of places but personally I've never enjoyed reading it in books. A lot of words were shorted: cos in place of because, haps in place of happy and colly instead of collage. It just didn't feel necessary. It almost read how I imagine a group chat of fifteen year olds speak to each other. It gave me the same vibe as people who say amazeballs unironically.
I also didn't like the notion that Olivia was a bitch just because she was dating the guy Tia liked. If Aaron never mentioned Tia to Olivia, that's on him. The fact they'd never talked about their 'situationship' or set boundaries with each other wasn't Olivia's fault, either. Kinda perpetuates the idea that women need to be in competition with each other when it comes to men, ya know? Not my style. Also - if I was Olivia, coming to meet my boyfriends friends for the first time and a girl he's talked about a lot (since she referred to her as the famous Tia) jumped all over my boyfriend as soon as he walked through the door, I'd have my back up a little, too. But then again, that's on Aaron, for not telling his friends or Tia about Olivia.
Do you see the problem here? It felt very juvenile.
As well as all of that, there were points in the book that were just page after page or either inner monologuing from Tia or more descriptive nonsense about what she was doing, what those around her were doing, useless background information that I glazed over.
*Thank you to Netgalley and Merky Books for the ARC*
For one, it was overly descriptive. I was told, told, told until I wanted to scream. I don't think I've read, and enjoyed, a story where the main character describes every detail of not only her own, but all of her friends outfits, from their shoes to the jewelry they have on, since I was at least fourteen. If it isn't important to the story, you're just adding unnecessary word count. I just don't care. The same happened whenever a new character was introduced, no matter how minor their role. We'd get 2-3 paragraphs about their life or their role within Tia's life and again, I cannot stress this enough: I did not care!!!!!! I'm not here for useless filler. I want information relevant and important to the story. The author really struggled with that throughout this entire book - deciding what was important enough to include and what could be left out.
Secondly, the dialogue. It felt really immature at best and very repetitive at worst. I'm sure I counted three, maybe four times by the 15% mark that Tia had 'kissed her teeth'. I also just didn't gel with the dialogue in general. Slang has it's place in a lot of places but personally I've never enjoyed reading it in books. A lot of words were shorted: cos in place of because, haps in place of happy and colly instead of collage. It just didn't feel necessary. It almost read how I imagine a group chat of fifteen year olds speak to each other. It gave me the same vibe as people who say amazeballs unironically.
I also didn't like the notion that Olivia was a bitch just because she was dating the guy Tia liked. If Aaron never mentioned Tia to Olivia, that's on him. The fact they'd never talked about their 'situationship' or set boundaries with each other wasn't Olivia's fault, either. Kinda perpetuates the idea that women need to be in competition with each other when it comes to men, ya know? Not my style. Also - if I was Olivia, coming to meet my boyfriends friends for the first time and a girl he's talked about a lot (since she referred to her as the famous Tia) jumped all over my boyfriend as soon as he walked through the door, I'd have my back up a little, too. But then again, that's on Aaron, for not telling his friends or Tia about Olivia.
Do you see the problem here? It felt very juvenile.
As well as all of that, there were points in the book that were just page after page or either inner monologuing from Tia or more descriptive nonsense about what she was doing, what those around her were doing, useless background information that I glazed over.
*Thank you to Netgalley and Merky Books for the ARC*
April 8, 2023
TURN THIS INTO A SERIES!!
Definitely a 4.5 read for me. I don't usually go for rom-coms, but this is an unconventional rom-com, one about navigating modern dating in-between work, friends and everything else life throws at you. There's loads of detail about Tia navigating structural racism at her office, the struggles of elevating Black stories in overwhelmingly white newsrooms, which I was expecting, as I was lucky enough to hear the author chat about the story at a Merky Books event, where I was v kindly gifted a proof.
I made the mistake of reading some negative reviews on here, some of which were pretty coded. One reader says they want the characters to "speak properly" as opposed to using slang. It's pretty clear the author uses the slang of actual Black Londoners - the dialogue would feel super jarring otherwise - AND switching in and out of slang based on context seems to me like a pretty obvious depiction of Tia having to code-switch in and out of the office. If you want characters to "speak properly" then find another - whiter, posher - rom-com.
Another says they didn't expect to hear so much about racism, and it turned them off the book. Anyone who knows anything about Merky's mission would roll their eyes at this statement, and I personally love that Tia's life was more fleshed out than endless dates and romantic scenes.
Some of the writing was sporadically repetitive, but I - like everyone else given an ARC - was reading a proof, so I reckon some repetition will be changed before the book goes to print. More than anything, I really warmed to Tia; I wanted her to WIN, and I love that this book centres friendship, as well as romance. I also finished 340 pages in two days- perfect summer read, I reckon!
Definitely a 4.5 read for me. I don't usually go for rom-coms, but this is an unconventional rom-com, one about navigating modern dating in-between work, friends and everything else life throws at you. There's loads of detail about Tia navigating structural racism at her office, the struggles of elevating Black stories in overwhelmingly white newsrooms, which I was expecting, as I was lucky enough to hear the author chat about the story at a Merky Books event, where I was v kindly gifted a proof.
I made the mistake of reading some negative reviews on here, some of which were pretty coded. One reader says they want the characters to "speak properly" as opposed to using slang. It's pretty clear the author uses the slang of actual Black Londoners - the dialogue would feel super jarring otherwise - AND switching in and out of slang based on context seems to me like a pretty obvious depiction of Tia having to code-switch in and out of the office. If you want characters to "speak properly" then find another - whiter, posher - rom-com.
Another says they didn't expect to hear so much about racism, and it turned them off the book. Anyone who knows anything about Merky's mission would roll their eyes at this statement, and I personally love that Tia's life was more fleshed out than endless dates and romantic scenes.
Some of the writing was sporadically repetitive, but I - like everyone else given an ARC - was reading a proof, so I reckon some repetition will be changed before the book goes to print. More than anything, I really warmed to Tia; I wanted her to WIN, and I love that this book centres friendship, as well as romance. I also finished 340 pages in two days- perfect summer read, I reckon!
December 18, 2022
3.5 ⭐️
Mixed feelings on this but for the most part, I did enjoy it.
The humour and dialogue between Tia and other characters were perfect. I like that this wasn't a conventional romance and that there was a focus on Tia's career and personal growth.
But and this is my main gripe with this novel, I think it could've definitely done with a LOT less pop culture references. It did get to a point where it was frustrating because it felt like the writer was trying to pack in as much as possible to make Tia relatable.
p.s. there's something so satisfying about reading a scene where a black girl is getting ready to go out (It just gives me endorphins!)
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing this ARC.
Mixed feelings on this but for the most part, I did enjoy it.
The humour and dialogue between Tia and other characters were perfect. I like that this wasn't a conventional romance and that there was a focus on Tia's career and personal growth.
But and this is my main gripe with this novel, I think it could've definitely done with a LOT less pop culture references. It did get to a point where it was frustrating because it felt like the writer was trying to pack in as much as possible to make Tia relatable.
p.s. there's something so satisfying about reading a scene where a black girl is getting ready to go out (It just gives me endorphins!)
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing this ARC.
dnf
September 9, 2023DNF @49%
The dialogue in this book is jarring. How many times can an author use “kisses their teeth” to describe a character.
This book will age badly very quickly
The dialogue in this book is jarring. How many times can an author use “kisses their teeth” to describe a character.
This book will age badly very quickly
December 16, 2022
grateful to the publisher for gifting me a copy because i LOVED this! the writing flowed effortlessly to make for an easy, but enjoyable read. the friendships all felt authentic and i really appreciated how Tia’s personal storyline got as much attention as the romance. will definitely be recommending this to everyone 🫶🏼
January 30, 2024
3.5 ⭐️ It was good and I liked it but I didn’t love. I know it’s a romance novel but it began to explore other themes such as being a woc in a predominantly white corporate environment and I would’ve enjoyed it more if that was expanded. Pretty realistic portrayal of relationships in this day and age (do with that what you will)
December 27, 2022
I was really grateful to receive an early copy of this from the publisher.
I have mixed feelings about Merky Books’ first romcom.
I thought that the first chapter of The Situationship was brilliant, but towards the end I was really beginning to drag myself through the book as I lost interest in the characters.
Plot-wise, I enjoyed how relatable the book felt in terms of modern day dating. I LOVED the way Tia spoke - it was refreshing and real - though I felt sometimes it leant too much into pop culture and became gimmicky.
I also enjoyed the descriptions of Tia getting ready for a night out - it felt so real.
Overall, the book is solid but tries to be too “down with it”. It feels like it has been written for the TikTok generation but lacks any real depth.
I have mixed feelings about Merky Books’ first romcom.
I thought that the first chapter of The Situationship was brilliant, but towards the end I was really beginning to drag myself through the book as I lost interest in the characters.
Plot-wise, I enjoyed how relatable the book felt in terms of modern day dating. I LOVED the way Tia spoke - it was refreshing and real - though I felt sometimes it leant too much into pop culture and became gimmicky.
I also enjoyed the descriptions of Tia getting ready for a night out - it felt so real.
Overall, the book is solid but tries to be too “down with it”. It feels like it has been written for the TikTok generation but lacks any real depth.
November 27, 2023
I found this book very difficult to finish. I couldn't stand the constant use of the word 'babe' and the fact that the characters kept 'kissing their teeth'.
The characters were just annoying and immature. The slang was completely over the top and it felt like I was reading something that a young teen had written, rather than reading about people that are supposedly in their mid to late twenties. I understand wanting to make dialogue relatable but the excessive use of the words 'bruv' and 'innit' just made the whole thing feel very over the top.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for the chance to read and review
The characters were just annoying and immature. The slang was completely over the top and it felt like I was reading something that a young teen had written, rather than reading about people that are supposedly in their mid to late twenties. I understand wanting to make dialogue relatable but the excessive use of the words 'bruv' and 'innit' just made the whole thing feel very over the top.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for the chance to read and review
March 4, 2024
Wow, I really liked this one. I thought it was going to be cheesy, as it was predictable at times, and even the ending was obvious from the last 2 chapters, but dear god, I love when women choose themselves.
Let’s all cheer for women not settling for half-assed shit. Let’s cheer for women wanting more out of men. Let’s cheer for women who trust that someone will step up, and you don’t have to settle for crabs!
I’m gonna leave this here: You know what you want, and what he offered wasn’t enough.
Let’s all cheer for women not settling for half-assed shit. Let’s cheer for women wanting more out of men. Let’s cheer for women who trust that someone will step up, and you don’t have to settle for crabs!
I’m gonna leave this here: You know what you want, and what he offered wasn’t enough.
October 10, 2023
i really liked this! it’s very different to the normal romance/romcoms i read—definitely not your usual romcom but has the same comedy and romantic elements that you would find.
Tia was a character that was definitely relatable, and her narrative definitely got stronger as the text progressed. i loved being in her mind! and the struggles she faced at work were so interesting to read. i think that was definitely the strongest element of the book! and Tia knowing her self worth!
Tia was a character that was definitely relatable, and her narrative definitely got stronger as the text progressed. i loved being in her mind! and the struggles she faced at work were so interesting to read. i think that was definitely the strongest element of the book! and Tia knowing her self worth!
September 14, 2023
A fab, funny and slightly triggering debut from Taylor-Dior Rumble! I enjoyed the way Tia’s “situationships” were explored and I really felt connected to her from both a personal and general reader pov.
I do wish we got more Aaron, just to make their final scene a crescendo of passion and frustration - really up those stakes! To me it just felt a little underwhelming considering how much history we’re told she has with him and it was over before it even began. Making me side with Tia’s favourite walking red flag Nate - temporarily.
Nate was every shade of red in the rainbow and he did my girl Tia disgustingly BUT he was very real and representative of an unserious guy every girl at some point in their dating life has had an experience with. I would argue out of all of the characters, he was the most vivid for me.
Her friends Luca and Hannah were enjoyable and I really appreciated their friendship together.
Yvonne was also super well written and having read the acknowledgment I know why! Always lovely to read a good character based on a good person :)
As for Tia, I know this is a plot driven novel, but I wish she had more character development throughout. Right through till the end she still had doubts which were totally valid, but I just wished she hyped herself up more! I admire her ability to both learn and apply the lessons she learnt from her situationships. However, I do wish she had some more moments of self-love, just to see when she was building her confidence and how it was influencing her new moves.
As a plot driven piece I personally felt that it got a little bit repetitive towards the end and the final scene felt quite rushed. Almost too good to be believable? Like a bit of a cop-out solution. I would’ve liked to see her make a decision on staying or leaving because she was so miserable at LCN and then get the offer. I think it would’ve upped those stakes and would’ve helped build Tia’s character more.
Also there’s a grammatical error towards the end section that ruined the flow of reading for me for a bit ngl.
Overall, I had fun reading it! A truly enjoyable reading experience and is one to share with my friends :)
I do wish we got more Aaron, just to make their final scene a crescendo of passion and frustration - really up those stakes! To me it just felt a little underwhelming considering how much history we’re told she has with him and it was over before it even began. Making me side with Tia’s favourite walking red flag Nate - temporarily.
Nate was every shade of red in the rainbow and he did my girl Tia disgustingly BUT he was very real and representative of an unserious guy every girl at some point in their dating life has had an experience with. I would argue out of all of the characters, he was the most vivid for me.
Her friends Luca and Hannah were enjoyable and I really appreciated their friendship together.
Yvonne was also super well written and having read the acknowledgment I know why! Always lovely to read a good character based on a good person :)
As for Tia, I know this is a plot driven novel, but I wish she had more character development throughout. Right through till the end she still had doubts which were totally valid, but I just wished she hyped herself up more! I admire her ability to both learn and apply the lessons she learnt from her situationships. However, I do wish she had some more moments of self-love, just to see when she was building her confidence and how it was influencing her new moves.
As a plot driven piece I personally felt that it got a little bit repetitive towards the end and the final scene felt quite rushed. Almost too good to be believable? Like a bit of a cop-out solution. I would’ve liked to see her make a decision on staying or leaving because she was so miserable at LCN and then get the offer. I think it would’ve upped those stakes and would’ve helped build Tia’s character more.
Also there’s a grammatical error towards the end section that ruined the flow of reading for me for a bit ngl.
Overall, I had fun reading it! A truly enjoyable reading experience and is one to share with my friends :)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 24, 2023
just wanted to start by saying thank you so much to netgalley and penguin for providing me with an arc of this book !!
essentially, this novel follows Tia in navigating life in her 20s. primarily focussing on the modern dating scene, we also get glimpses into her friendships and career. overall, i thoroughly enjoyed following Tia as a protagonist and gaging her outlook on life.
the accuracy in the depiction of even trying to get a foot into dating really had me chuckling to myself. i also really appreciated the theme of self-worth being relayed throughout the book. being single is fun! the narrative that success & self-worth is related to your relationship status is ridiculous. this is something that Rumble addressed so well.
the reason why this isn't 5 stars for me is just that at times i felt like some of the dialogue didn't necessarily flow and i found it hard to fully get myself back into the scene. however, generally this was no issue and i thoroughly enjoyed reading the interactions between characters.
honestly, i think we can all relate to the confusion Tia feels throughout this book. life makes no sense.
essentially, this novel follows Tia in navigating life in her 20s. primarily focussing on the modern dating scene, we also get glimpses into her friendships and career. overall, i thoroughly enjoyed following Tia as a protagonist and gaging her outlook on life.
the accuracy in the depiction of even trying to get a foot into dating really had me chuckling to myself. i also really appreciated the theme of self-worth being relayed throughout the book. being single is fun! the narrative that success & self-worth is related to your relationship status is ridiculous. this is something that Rumble addressed so well.
the reason why this isn't 5 stars for me is just that at times i felt like some of the dialogue didn't necessarily flow and i found it hard to fully get myself back into the scene. however, generally this was no issue and i thoroughly enjoyed reading the interactions between characters.
honestly, i think we can all relate to the confusion Tia feels throughout this book. life makes no sense.
November 18, 2024
This book is so accurate of dating in your 20’s, men ain’t shit x
Also perfect ending! Tia I love you
Also perfect ending! Tia I love you
August 24, 2023
Once I got into it I couldn’t put it down and though it had its ups and downs - loved the ending!
More like a 3.5 overall
More like a 3.5 overall
February 28, 2024
Good read!
May 1, 2024
Lucky it got 2 stars. It hurt to read.
November 15, 2023
J'aurais dû accorder plus d'importance aux red flag sur la couverture.
Celui ci était un peu too close from home.
Pas une romcom à mon avis, mais un excellent roman contemporain sur la vingtaine, la carrière pro et les relations amoureuses.
Celui ci était un peu too close from home.
Pas une romcom à mon avis, mais un excellent roman contemporain sur la vingtaine, la carrière pro et les relations amoureuses.
January 26, 2023
I loved the synosis and this is why I requested the book. Who doesn't like reading about dating, right? And the book started really promising - it was funny and quirky, with bubbling characters. But those were actually only a chapter or two. Then it went downhill for me.
The blurb doesn't mention Tia's working place. It turns out she's journalist who struggles to find her voice as a young black woman and the story, in fact, turned out to be a manifest to young black women trying to find their voice, and if I knew this, I wouldn't request this book, sorry. HOwever, I kept reading.
I couldn't warm to the characters and their storylines. They felt immature and behaved immature, the dialogues mirror it very, very well. I don't like slang in the books, it's my thing maybe, but I want proper words in a proper story. Reading it felt like standing near a group of teenagers telling a joke, I didn't understand a lot.
However, my personal highlight is "kissing the teeth". Folks, Tia and other characters "kissed their teeth" in every second sentence. EVERY. FREAKING. SECOND. SENTENCE. I felt completely, totally annoyed, irritated, pissed off with them all the time kissing their teeth. Aaaaaaarghhhhh!!!
I was hoping was a brilliantly funny, light story. This one was sadly too flat, too forced and too politically correct for me to enjoy it.
The blurb doesn't mention Tia's working place. It turns out she's journalist who struggles to find her voice as a young black woman and the story, in fact, turned out to be a manifest to young black women trying to find their voice, and if I knew this, I wouldn't request this book, sorry. HOwever, I kept reading.
I couldn't warm to the characters and their storylines. They felt immature and behaved immature, the dialogues mirror it very, very well. I don't like slang in the books, it's my thing maybe, but I want proper words in a proper story. Reading it felt like standing near a group of teenagers telling a joke, I didn't understand a lot.
However, my personal highlight is "kissing the teeth". Folks, Tia and other characters "kissed their teeth" in every second sentence. EVERY. FREAKING. SECOND. SENTENCE. I felt completely, totally annoyed, irritated, pissed off with them all the time kissing their teeth. Aaaaaaarghhhhh!!!
I was hoping was a brilliantly funny, light story. This one was sadly too flat, too forced and too politically correct for me to enjoy it.
December 19, 2022
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Having really loved previous offerings from Merky Books, I really wanted to love this one. I was completely sold on the premise of the novel and its themes, but unfortunately it did not deliver for me.
I really enjoyed several aspects of this book: Tia as a protagonist, the authenticity of her workplace and the struggles she faces, some of the dialogue, and the key selling point: a romance centred on a situationship, and the uncertainties and what-ifs that define modern-day dating. However, I really disliked the writing style - it felt juvenile at points, telling rather than showing the reader (whilst being overly descriptive of irrelevant things), and repetitive - a character 'kissed [their] teeth' on seemingly every page. Moreover, whilst offering a hugely important message about the realities of being a Black woman, particularly in the workplace, I was really uncomfortable with the attitudes towards some of the other characters - for example, referring to a character's girlfriend as a 'bitch', for the crime of being his girlfriend, and not much else.
Having really loved previous offerings from Merky Books, I really wanted to love this one. I was completely sold on the premise of the novel and its themes, but unfortunately it did not deliver for me.
I really enjoyed several aspects of this book: Tia as a protagonist, the authenticity of her workplace and the struggles she faces, some of the dialogue, and the key selling point: a romance centred on a situationship, and the uncertainties and what-ifs that define modern-day dating. However, I really disliked the writing style - it felt juvenile at points, telling rather than showing the reader (whilst being overly descriptive of irrelevant things), and repetitive - a character 'kissed [their] teeth' on seemingly every page. Moreover, whilst offering a hugely important message about the realities of being a Black woman, particularly in the workplace, I was really uncomfortable with the attitudes towards some of the other characters - for example, referring to a character's girlfriend as a 'bitch', for the crime of being his girlfriend, and not much else.
June 16, 2025
I couldn’t finish the book. The plot was dragging.. it seemed like the author could not decide what the book was about. Whether about woman empowerment, racism at workplace, a friend she was in love with or a situationship who wasn’t texting her back most of the time. None of those great storylines weren’t evolving properly.
August 3, 2024
3.5
I had little respect for the FMC.
I had no respect for the MMC.
I had little respect for the FMC.
I had no respect for the MMC.
January 4, 2025
I approached this book expecting a romance book but quickly realized that it was something very different. While this was not a romance book, it did provide a real picture of dating within this current generation and its many complexities.
The writing style, unfortunately, didn’t work for me. It felt a bit disorganized at times, which made it challenging to stay fully immersed in the book. However, the strength of the main character kept me engaged. Her development throughout the book was compelling, and I appreciated how her journey reflected a deeper understanding of self-worth and personal growth.
One of the standout aspects of this book is its discussion of racism, identity and the importance of representation. These themes were woven into the story in a way that felt genuine and impactful, highlighting experiences that many people can relate to.
This book is a realistic and unfiltered portrayal of dating, relationships, and identity. While the writing style wasn’t my taste, I respect the honesty of the story and the relevance of the issues it tackled. It is definitely a thought-provoking read!
I want to thank NetGalley, Merky Books and the author for providing me with a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review! 🫶🏻
The writing style, unfortunately, didn’t work for me. It felt a bit disorganized at times, which made it challenging to stay fully immersed in the book. However, the strength of the main character kept me engaged. Her development throughout the book was compelling, and I appreciated how her journey reflected a deeper understanding of self-worth and personal growth.
One of the standout aspects of this book is its discussion of racism, identity and the importance of representation. These themes were woven into the story in a way that felt genuine and impactful, highlighting experiences that many people can relate to.
This book is a realistic and unfiltered portrayal of dating, relationships, and identity. While the writing style wasn’t my taste, I respect the honesty of the story and the relevance of the issues it tackled. It is definitely a thought-provoking read!
I want to thank NetGalley, Merky Books and the author for providing me with a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review! 🫶🏻
September 29, 2023
Having been in a reading rut for a while, I really enjoyed how easy this was to read.
If you can see past the slang and some of the occasionally unnecessary descriptions, this feels so true to life. Tia is a 20-something black woman in London, working her backside off and feeling like she’s getting nowhere. She experiences the same things that many of us relate to: imposter syndrome, feeling like you’re wasting your life, trying (and occasionally failing) the dating apps.
A lot of people seem to really struggle to get past the dialogue, which I understand can be hard if you’re not used to hearing or reading it. Sometimes it felt a little too forced when reading characters refer to college as “colly”, or the endless name dropping of brands or pop culture references. However, at the heart of it, Tia’s story is one a lot of us can relate to.
This story DOES have a happy ending, but not in the way you’d expect from a rom-com. Her happy ending isn’t riding off into the sunset with the “perfect man”, but is really about her no longer convincing herself she isn’t good enough and taking opportunities by the balls. I really enjoyed this book, and I’d love to read more from this author in the future.
If you can see past the slang and some of the occasionally unnecessary descriptions, this feels so true to life. Tia is a 20-something black woman in London, working her backside off and feeling like she’s getting nowhere. She experiences the same things that many of us relate to: imposter syndrome, feeling like you’re wasting your life, trying (and occasionally failing) the dating apps.
A lot of people seem to really struggle to get past the dialogue, which I understand can be hard if you’re not used to hearing or reading it. Sometimes it felt a little too forced when reading characters refer to college as “colly”, or the endless name dropping of brands or pop culture references. However, at the heart of it, Tia’s story is one a lot of us can relate to.
This story DOES have a happy ending, but not in the way you’d expect from a rom-com. Her happy ending isn’t riding off into the sunset with the “perfect man”, but is really about her no longer convincing herself she isn’t good enough and taking opportunities by the balls. I really enjoyed this book, and I’d love to read more from this author in the future.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 21, 2023
“this will remain a situationship unless someone makes the first move”
Solid first novel from Taylor-Dior Rumble. The Situationship is an unravelling of a 20-something working girl in media. Much like most young women her age, she’s learning what a healthy relationship looks like, how to set and maintain boundaries, and defining what success looks like in her career.
“She was tired of overthinking her way out of the happiness and excitement”
I love how authentic the protagonist’s voice is, with slangs and jovial rhetoric flowing so casually between characters. Not contrived at all. Also, I’d liken Tia’s (the main character) growth to Issa’s on Insecure, so it was a full circle moment seeing Issa Rae credited in the final acknowledgments.
Two lessons stuck out to me from this book & I’ll share direct quotes:
1) “I’m not begging people to see my worth anymore.”
2) “if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s to go where you are loved and valued.”
Solid first novel from Taylor-Dior Rumble. The Situationship is an unravelling of a 20-something working girl in media. Much like most young women her age, she’s learning what a healthy relationship looks like, how to set and maintain boundaries, and defining what success looks like in her career.
“She was tired of overthinking her way out of the happiness and excitement”
I love how authentic the protagonist’s voice is, with slangs and jovial rhetoric flowing so casually between characters. Not contrived at all. Also, I’d liken Tia’s (the main character) growth to Issa’s on Insecure, so it was a full circle moment seeing Issa Rae credited in the final acknowledgments.
Two lessons stuck out to me from this book & I’ll share direct quotes:
1) “I’m not begging people to see my worth anymore.”
2) “if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s to go where you are loved and valued.”
January 1, 2023
Okay, so this is my first read of 2023, and I finished it in a day.
Tia is a young woman in her twenties in London, going through all sorts of angst about relationships, one specific one, and her place in a workspace that doesn't seem to respect her ethnicity or many of those from minority backgrounds.
I have to say I am glad that, as a reader in my late forties, I have a teenage daughter, so some of the language and slang used were more familiar to me, and even some of the pop culture references didn't fall on deaf ears...
Definitely, a book that Gen Z women would enjoy and appreciate, and if you are a little older, maybe a good one to read to understand a bit more about those younger than us since, even though we have been that age, life 'then' and life 'now' is very different.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Random House UK, Cornerstone, Merky Books for an ARC.
Tia is a young woman in her twenties in London, going through all sorts of angst about relationships, one specific one, and her place in a workspace that doesn't seem to respect her ethnicity or many of those from minority backgrounds.
I have to say I am glad that, as a reader in my late forties, I have a teenage daughter, so some of the language and slang used were more familiar to me, and even some of the pop culture references didn't fall on deaf ears...
Definitely, a book that Gen Z women would enjoy and appreciate, and if you are a little older, maybe a good one to read to understand a bit more about those younger than us since, even though we have been that age, life 'then' and life 'now' is very different.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Random House UK, Cornerstone, Merky Books for an ARC.
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