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On the Plus Side
What Not to Wear and Queer Eye meet All the Feels in this sparkling romantic comedy by Jenny L. Howe, in which the new guest on a popular plus-size makeover show has her style—and her love life—transformed.
Everly Winters is perfectly happy to navigate life like a good neutral paint color: appreciated but unnoticed. That’s why she’s still a receptionist instead of exploring a career in art, why she lurks but never posts on the forums for her favorite makeover show, On the Plus Side, and why she’s crushing so hard on her forever-unattainable co-worker. When no one notices you, they can’t reject you or insist you’re too much.
This plan is working perfectly until someone secretly nominates Everly for the next season of On the Plus Side. Overwhelmed by the show’s extremely extroverted hosts and how much time she’ll have to spend on screen, she finds comfort in a surprising friendship with the grumpy but kind cameraman, Logan. Soon Everly realizes that he’s someone she doesn’t mind being noticed by. In fact, she might even like it.
But when their growing connection is caught on camera, it sends the show’s ratings into a frenzy. Learning to embrace all of herself on national TV is hard enough; can Everly risk heartbreak with the whole world watching?
Everly Winters is perfectly happy to navigate life like a good neutral paint color: appreciated but unnoticed. That’s why she’s still a receptionist instead of exploring a career in art, why she lurks but never posts on the forums for her favorite makeover show, On the Plus Side, and why she’s crushing so hard on her forever-unattainable co-worker. When no one notices you, they can’t reject you or insist you’re too much.
This plan is working perfectly until someone secretly nominates Everly for the next season of On the Plus Side. Overwhelmed by the show’s extremely extroverted hosts and how much time she’ll have to spend on screen, she finds comfort in a surprising friendship with the grumpy but kind cameraman, Logan. Soon Everly realizes that he’s someone she doesn’t mind being noticed by. In fact, she might even like it.
But when their growing connection is caught on camera, it sends the show’s ratings into a frenzy. Learning to embrace all of herself on national TV is hard enough; can Everly risk heartbreak with the whole world watching?
360 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 26, 2023
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January 12, 2024
**Many thanks to NetGalley, St. Martin's Press, and Jenny L. Howe for an ARC of this book! Now available as of 12.26!**
The last place Everly Winters EVER imagined she'd be is in front of a camera. Even though she's always been a huge fan of the makeover reality show On The Plus Side, where plus size individuals undergo physical and life makeovers (think Queer Eye with a dash of What Not To Wear thrown in for good measure), she would prefer to lurk on the "read-it thread" and stay out of the limelight. She's always dreamed of pursuing her passion for art, but feels her job as a receptionist is where she 'belongs'...and her mother's critical eye has only played on this insecurity.
But all of that is about to change.
When Everly finds out she has been NOMINATED for the ultimate makeover on her all-time favorite show, she's stunned, terrified...and yes, a bit excited. Was it her best friend who nominated her? Everly isn't quite sure...but she's hoping maybe she'll end up able to participate in the art Collective of her dreams and the shows two hosts will bring out the very best of her and a new confidence she's never known. And then there's the hunky guy James she's had her eye on forever too...could they be MORE than work friends?
But there's also gruff, flannel-clad hunky cameraman Logan. His grumpy demeanor is off-putting at first, but after a while, Everly starts to notice the twinkle in his eye when he talks to her on camera AND off...and she starts catching feelings of her own as well. But is there any 'reality' in this reality TV...or has this love triangle simply been orchestrated for ratings? Can Everly trust Logan...or is she simply a pawn in a ratings game, set to have her heart broken AND her dreams dashed, all in one fell swoop?
I was an instant fan of Howe's writing after thoroughly enjoying The Make-Up Test, a rom-com with a literary bent, where the bookish references flew fast and furious and the banter was reminiscent of Emily Henry's fun and quirky style. I was hoping for more of the same in this book, and as someone who is both a fan of shows like Queer Eye and ALL kinds of rep in my reading, Howe's brand of plus-size positivity. This seemed like a winning combination of story elements and writing style, and I was fairly certain I'd enjoy this read.
But when I say much of this one felt like a bicycle with flat tires...it's an unfortunate truth. While many would argue our MC Logan is far more likable than the male lead in Howe's last book...I have the opposite opinion. While I can safely say there isn't much to dislike about Logan, in many ways, this is part of the problem. He read more like a stereotype, from the bearded flannel lumberjack look, to his "gruff" introduction. As is the case with many of these type of reads, I had a hard time believing that he was so unapproachable anyway: he went from quiet to talkative and kind in no short order, and because there was such a quick transition, it lost impact.
Everly also read as a bit more young and naive than I had hoped she would be, I yearned for her to come into her own FOR herself, but it still seemed like she was more focused on impressing others...and fixating on her clothes more often than necessary. Yes, it's a makeover show and I know the author was also inspired by What Not To Wear, so the references make sense...but after a while, it just felt like overkill. I wasn't interested in hearing about EVERY single outfit she was wearing, especially those that just seemed a bit young or unprofessional for her (rather than unbecoming to her body type). I was more interested in her internal journey, and although this was discussed, I STILL felt like it was overshadowed at times.
There's also the "readit" (think Reddit) posts tossed in, which often felt goofy and inauthentic and the fourth act 'scandal' is MORE than a bit convoluted. It was nice to skip the obligatory third act breakup, but because the plot got so implausible, it still didn't quite land. As an administrative assistant myself, I also didn't like the implication that being a receptionist should just be a temporary position while you look for a REAL job in marketing (or in Everly's case, design). While this kind of job isn't for everyone, people work in different professions and roles for all sorts of reasons...and she certainly was able to utilize and hone her art skills both at home AND at work...but despite her life transformation, I'm not sure she ever came to appreciate that fact.
Of course, one of Howe's trademarks at this point is plus size rep, and she handles it well. I'm glad to see her continuing to tell these stories. With that being said, however, it did feel at times like we were retreading territory covered in The Make-Up Test, and maybe I was dreaming, but it honestly felt like certain passages by the MC felt almost paraphrased or just restated from her first book. While I realize the main themes may be similar, I sometimes felt like I was hearing the author's direct POV rather than the original thoughts of her different characters...and while Everly may not have been my FAVORITE heroine, she certainly had a unique personality...and I think COULD have had subsequently made some more interesting and impactful statements along her journey.
And although I won't say how this one ends...
You can rest assured there's at LEAST a 50% chance of a Happy Ever-ly After!
😉
3.5 stars
#OnThePlusSide #JennyLHowe #SMPRomance #StMartinsPress
The last place Everly Winters EVER imagined she'd be is in front of a camera. Even though she's always been a huge fan of the makeover reality show On The Plus Side, where plus size individuals undergo physical and life makeovers (think Queer Eye with a dash of What Not To Wear thrown in for good measure), she would prefer to lurk on the "read-it thread" and stay out of the limelight. She's always dreamed of pursuing her passion for art, but feels her job as a receptionist is where she 'belongs'...and her mother's critical eye has only played on this insecurity.
But all of that is about to change.
When Everly finds out she has been NOMINATED for the ultimate makeover on her all-time favorite show, she's stunned, terrified...and yes, a bit excited. Was it her best friend who nominated her? Everly isn't quite sure...but she's hoping maybe she'll end up able to participate in the art Collective of her dreams and the shows two hosts will bring out the very best of her and a new confidence she's never known. And then there's the hunky guy James she's had her eye on forever too...could they be MORE than work friends?
But there's also gruff, flannel-clad hunky cameraman Logan. His grumpy demeanor is off-putting at first, but after a while, Everly starts to notice the twinkle in his eye when he talks to her on camera AND off...and she starts catching feelings of her own as well. But is there any 'reality' in this reality TV...or has this love triangle simply been orchestrated for ratings? Can Everly trust Logan...or is she simply a pawn in a ratings game, set to have her heart broken AND her dreams dashed, all in one fell swoop?
I was an instant fan of Howe's writing after thoroughly enjoying The Make-Up Test, a rom-com with a literary bent, where the bookish references flew fast and furious and the banter was reminiscent of Emily Henry's fun and quirky style. I was hoping for more of the same in this book, and as someone who is both a fan of shows like Queer Eye and ALL kinds of rep in my reading, Howe's brand of plus-size positivity. This seemed like a winning combination of story elements and writing style, and I was fairly certain I'd enjoy this read.
But when I say much of this one felt like a bicycle with flat tires...it's an unfortunate truth. While many would argue our MC Logan is far more likable than the male lead in Howe's last book...I have the opposite opinion. While I can safely say there isn't much to dislike about Logan, in many ways, this is part of the problem. He read more like a stereotype, from the bearded flannel lumberjack look, to his "gruff" introduction. As is the case with many of these type of reads, I had a hard time believing that he was so unapproachable anyway: he went from quiet to talkative and kind in no short order, and because there was such a quick transition, it lost impact.
Everly also read as a bit more young and naive than I had hoped she would be, I yearned for her to come into her own FOR herself, but it still seemed like she was more focused on impressing others...and fixating on her clothes more often than necessary. Yes, it's a makeover show and I know the author was also inspired by What Not To Wear, so the references make sense...but after a while, it just felt like overkill. I wasn't interested in hearing about EVERY single outfit she was wearing, especially those that just seemed a bit young or unprofessional for her (rather than unbecoming to her body type). I was more interested in her internal journey, and although this was discussed, I STILL felt like it was overshadowed at times.
There's also the "readit" (think Reddit) posts tossed in, which often felt goofy and inauthentic and the fourth act 'scandal' is MORE than a bit convoluted. It was nice to skip the obligatory third act breakup, but because the plot got so implausible, it still didn't quite land. As an administrative assistant myself, I also didn't like the implication that being a receptionist should just be a temporary position while you look for a REAL job in marketing (or in Everly's case, design). While this kind of job isn't for everyone, people work in different professions and roles for all sorts of reasons...and she certainly was able to utilize and hone her art skills both at home AND at work...but despite her life transformation, I'm not sure she ever came to appreciate that fact.
Of course, one of Howe's trademarks at this point is plus size rep, and she handles it well. I'm glad to see her continuing to tell these stories. With that being said, however, it did feel at times like we were retreading territory covered in The Make-Up Test, and maybe I was dreaming, but it honestly felt like certain passages by the MC felt almost paraphrased or just restated from her first book. While I realize the main themes may be similar, I sometimes felt like I was hearing the author's direct POV rather than the original thoughts of her different characters...and while Everly may not have been my FAVORITE heroine, she certainly had a unique personality...and I think COULD have had subsequently made some more interesting and impactful statements along her journey.
And although I won't say how this one ends...
You can rest assured there's at LEAST a 50% chance of a Happy Ever-ly After!
😉
3.5 stars
#OnThePlusSide #JennyLHowe #SMPRomance #StMartinsPress
December 27, 2023
Firstly I want to thank netgalley and the publishers for allowing me an ARC of this book!
2.5⭐️
I have seriously conflicted feelings about this book. I so badly wanted to like it but everything was just putting me off yet I still feel like I didn’t hate it despite all of the issues I had. This review is about to be really long because I just have so much to say and I will try to remain as vague as possible but there are some paraphrased quotations throughout so if you want the tldr I will put a summation at the end🙂
The concept of this book was fun and I appreciated the story it was trying to tell!
I’m going a little out of order with how I would usually do this for this book so I’m going to start with Logan our mmc!😀 He was from what I could tell a good guy? I don’t know because we really didn’t get to know him very well at all. We learned he loved older dogs and was super buff and always wore flannel which was painfully stereotypical of every gruff mmc written ever. But beyond that we basically knew nothing about him and what little we did learn about him felt overplayed or convoluted(ie. His ex girlfriend treated him poorly possibly but we don’t know and assumed he wanted to do film which he did want to do but also she shouldn’t have assumed ew).
Then there’s Everly. While I relate to her insecurities and wanting to make as little waves as possible in life it got to be too much. There is a line between insecurity and immaturity I felt she crossed it on several occasions. She loved jumping to conclusions, overreacting, and victimizing herself. She was also a bit delusional and not in a fun way. In the first pages of the book she basically says no one knows what it’s like to live in a world built to exclude them or make them feel wrong which rubbed me the wrong way🫤. On another occasion she claimed her friend was trying to “deny” the fact she was bigger than her because she SAID SHE LOOKED GOOD IN EVERYTHING!?! LIKE how dare she. She creates an oddly parasocial relationship with the hosts of the show. And the whole thing with James was actually so wild I had to take a pause. She accuses him of leading her on and basically blames him for HER kissing him because he was “flirting”(although she admits she could be misreading him and that they are friends before the kiss)and being friendly which was just icky. Then she gets mad at him for nominating her for the show so she can “gain confidence and move on” saying he was using it to reject her 🙄. If that’s what we(readers) we’re supposed to believe she should’ve made it much more clear he did something wrong. Everly and Logan together also had poor chemistry it felt like insta love but the love wasn’t even really there. Then they spoke in unison and that was it for me.
As for the writing I’ll try to start with the positives which is that from a lit standpoint everything was correct! The writing itself also was good in a sense that it got us from point a to point z. That being said the descriptive language used had me cringing so hard I had to take breaks. Words like “lumbersexual aura” “urban lumberjack” “woodsy metrosexual” “doggus interruptus ” used or sometimes spoken. Also the choice to be extremely descriptive of the outfits made sense because a big part of this book is a makeover. That being said the outfits all sounded like they would be worn by a middle aged mother or a middle schooler in 2016. Leopard print crop tops with floral leggings, flowery tunics and skinny jeans, statement necklaces and pencil skirts being described as “boho” was the final straw for me. To me when a big part of this is about being confident to wear pretty clothes that plus sized ppl are shamed out of wearing it’s counterproductive to dress like a middle aged mom because a big issue with plus sized clothing is that the only clothes available aren’t for younger people or trendy(which in the book she mentions wanting to find trendy clothes). Oh and don’t think i missed the part where she credited 2 white non drag related people for “co-opting” fabulous😒. Or how when everly was asked if she felt like a princess she said “no I actually feel like a badass” which is both annoying of her and weird because why is a princess not also a badass? Most of them are tbh.
moving on from all of that the plot was severely lacking. Which was ironic because Everly kept talking about how she wanted to focus on her story not a romantic one yet that’s basically all I got out of this book. Basically nothing happened even her big “art showcase” just got cancelled in the end with a 4th act random conflict that came out of NOWHERE.
Besides the dislikable FMC, forgettable MMC, and unbelievable lack of chemistry this book was just very boring and at times problematic and icky. The fashion aspect were probably the worst part to me and the conflict was ridiculous. The dialogue and writing was very cringy and it made it hard to believe it was written with younger people today in mind at all. It read like something written by someone who’s never experienced any of the things they were talking about or even researched it everything was just very unbelievable.
If you told me this was written by a man I would believe it. ok after a few months of distance I’ve decided that was a bit harsh the author seems very nice😭.
2.5⭐️
I have seriously conflicted feelings about this book. I so badly wanted to like it but everything was just putting me off yet I still feel like I didn’t hate it despite all of the issues I had. This review is about to be really long because I just have so much to say and I will try to remain as vague as possible but there are some paraphrased quotations throughout so if you want the tldr I will put a summation at the end🙂
The concept of this book was fun and I appreciated the story it was trying to tell!
I’m going a little out of order with how I would usually do this for this book so I’m going to start with Logan our mmc!😀 He was from what I could tell a good guy? I don’t know because we really didn’t get to know him very well at all. We learned he loved older dogs and was super buff and always wore flannel which was painfully stereotypical of every gruff mmc written ever. But beyond that we basically knew nothing about him and what little we did learn about him felt overplayed or convoluted(ie. His ex girlfriend treated him poorly possibly but we don’t know and assumed he wanted to do film which he did want to do but also she shouldn’t have assumed ew).
Then there’s Everly. While I relate to her insecurities and wanting to make as little waves as possible in life it got to be too much. There is a line between insecurity and immaturity I felt she crossed it on several occasions. She loved jumping to conclusions, overreacting, and victimizing herself. She was also a bit delusional and not in a fun way. In the first pages of the book she basically says no one knows what it’s like to live in a world built to exclude them or make them feel wrong which rubbed me the wrong way🫤. On another occasion she claimed her friend was trying to “deny” the fact she was bigger than her because she SAID SHE LOOKED GOOD IN EVERYTHING!?! LIKE how dare she. She creates an oddly parasocial relationship with the hosts of the show. And the whole thing with James was actually so wild I had to take a pause. She accuses him of leading her on and basically blames him for HER kissing him because he was “flirting”(although she admits she could be misreading him and that they are friends before the kiss)and being friendly which was just icky. Then she gets mad at him for nominating her for the show so she can “gain confidence and move on” saying he was using it to reject her 🙄. If that’s what we(readers) we’re supposed to believe she should’ve made it much more clear he did something wrong. Everly and Logan together also had poor chemistry it felt like insta love but the love wasn’t even really there. Then they spoke in unison and that was it for me.
As for the writing I’ll try to start with the positives which is that from a lit standpoint everything was correct! The writing itself also was good in a sense that it got us from point a to point z. That being said the descriptive language used had me cringing so hard I had to take breaks. Words like “lumbersexual aura” “urban lumberjack” “woodsy metrosexual” “doggus interruptus ” used or sometimes spoken. Also the choice to be extremely descriptive of the outfits made sense because a big part of this book is a makeover. That being said the outfits all sounded like they would be worn by a middle aged mother or a middle schooler in 2016. Leopard print crop tops with floral leggings, flowery tunics and skinny jeans, statement necklaces and pencil skirts being described as “boho” was the final straw for me. To me when a big part of this is about being confident to wear pretty clothes that plus sized ppl are shamed out of wearing it’s counterproductive to dress like a middle aged mom because a big issue with plus sized clothing is that the only clothes available aren’t for younger people or trendy(which in the book she mentions wanting to find trendy clothes). Oh and don’t think i missed the part where she credited 2 white non drag related people for “co-opting” fabulous😒. Or how when everly was asked if she felt like a princess she said “no I actually feel like a badass” which is both annoying of her and weird because why is a princess not also a badass? Most of them are tbh.
moving on from all of that the plot was severely lacking. Which was ironic because Everly kept talking about how she wanted to focus on her story not a romantic one yet that’s basically all I got out of this book. Basically nothing happened even her big “art showcase” just got cancelled in the end with a 4th act random conflict that came out of NOWHERE.
Besides the dislikable FMC, forgettable MMC, and unbelievable lack of chemistry this book was just very boring and at times problematic and icky. The fashion aspect were probably the worst part to me and the conflict was ridiculous. The dialogue and writing was very cringy and it made it hard to believe it was written with younger people today in mind at all. It read like something written by someone who’s never experienced any of the things they were talking about or even researched it everything was just very unbelievable.
December 27, 2023
On the Plus Side by Jenny L Howe
Contemporary romance, or women’s fiction with romance. Plus size / fat shaming fighting back.
Everly Winters is perfectly happy wearing dark colors, living above the garage of her brother’s house and working as a receptionist. Since her grandmother died, and her mother’s constant reminders to lower her voice or questioning her eating choices, Everly prefers to have the focus pointed elsewhere. When her favorite television hosts appear at her desk and tell her she’s been nominated for a makeover of On The Plus Side, Everly realizes she is going to have to figure out what she really wants to do in life. Does she want to explore a career in art? How is this tv show going to rebuild her confidence? They seem to have focused on a male coworker as the main story but that is not what Everly thinks is important or really even relevant to her makeover.
🎧 I alternated between an ebook coy and an audiobook version. The narration is performed by Zura Johnson who does a phenomenal job of distinctive voices between Everly and Logan as well as other supporting characters. The tempo is a smidge slow. I listened at 1.5 which is the most comfortable conversational speed for me. I clearly heard Everly’s surprise, and frustrated moments during the performance as well as her mother’s seemingly disapproval and Everly’s BFF’s support. Jazzy especially came across as enthusiastic.
The storyline itself was a bit concerning initially but a restart helped me to focus on Everly, and not my own goals or life choices. (I’m happy, really!) The topic was handled well and while I thought the mother’s “helping” may be bit of a cliche, I’ve personally experienced it and seen it with friends so believe it played true.
The followers support of Everly’s post on the forum was immediate and super supportive. The kindness of the fans had me crying it was so nice.
A story of learning to be confident in who you are regardless of size, gender, race etc.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and publisher Spotify Audiobooks / @OrangeSkyaudio.
Contemporary romance, or women’s fiction with romance. Plus size / fat shaming fighting back.
Everly Winters is perfectly happy wearing dark colors, living above the garage of her brother’s house and working as a receptionist. Since her grandmother died, and her mother’s constant reminders to lower her voice or questioning her eating choices, Everly prefers to have the focus pointed elsewhere. When her favorite television hosts appear at her desk and tell her she’s been nominated for a makeover of On The Plus Side, Everly realizes she is going to have to figure out what she really wants to do in life. Does she want to explore a career in art? How is this tv show going to rebuild her confidence? They seem to have focused on a male coworker as the main story but that is not what Everly thinks is important or really even relevant to her makeover.
🎧 I alternated between an ebook coy and an audiobook version. The narration is performed by Zura Johnson who does a phenomenal job of distinctive voices between Everly and Logan as well as other supporting characters. The tempo is a smidge slow. I listened at 1.5 which is the most comfortable conversational speed for me. I clearly heard Everly’s surprise, and frustrated moments during the performance as well as her mother’s seemingly disapproval and Everly’s BFF’s support. Jazzy especially came across as enthusiastic.
The storyline itself was a bit concerning initially but a restart helped me to focus on Everly, and not my own goals or life choices. (I’m happy, really!) The topic was handled well and while I thought the mother’s “helping” may be bit of a cliche, I’ve personally experienced it and seen it with friends so believe it played true.
The followers support of Everly’s post on the forum was immediate and super supportive. The kindness of the fans had me crying it was so nice.
A story of learning to be confident in who you are regardless of size, gender, race etc.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and publisher Spotify Audiobooks / @OrangeSkyaudio.
October 18, 2023
I honestly enjoyed this book so much. Being plus size "fat", it's always been a touchy subject for me. After reading this, I truly see myself in a better light and embrace myself in whatever stage I'm in.. even if I'm fat! Shape doesn't define you. The main character is truly inspiring and relatable. I loved every bit. Several times I giggled out loud and multiple times I got teary eyed. Such an inspiring and moving story, but in a light hearted way. Wonderful for others in the fat community seeking to find their self-love and confidence to realize they're "striking"! I've never felt more seen in my life. If you're part of the fat community trying to break fat phobia and your own insecurities to just truly LIVE, you need to read this.
I received this ARC from NetGalley to read and review. All of the statements above are my true opinions after fully reading this book.
I received this ARC from NetGalley to read and review. All of the statements above are my true opinions after fully reading this book.
May 7, 2023
This is very cute and enjoyable read. I love to see plus size representation in books and that's mostly why I picked this up. Everly and Colton, their dynamic and relationship was entertaining .Will be picking up more from the author.
A special thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Publishing Group for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
A special thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Publishing Group for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 23, 2023
This is basically Dumplin' for adults, or a mash-up of Spoiler Alert by Olivia Dade and Queer Eye. I really enjoy romance books about reality tv, and this is a great one. I found it very hard to put down, and it was such a feelgood read despite Everly dealing with fatphobia as well.
In Jenny L. Howe's previous book, I didn't like the love interest, but here I absolutely did. It's impossible not to love Logan. He's supportive of Everly and acts like an anchor in the chaos that is filming a reality show, and his best trait: he LOVES dogs. Actually his background story about his love for dogs made me tear up.
In Jenny L. Howe's previous book, I didn't like the love interest, but here I absolutely did. It's impossible not to love Logan. He's supportive of Everly and acts like an anchor in the chaos that is filming a reality show, and his best trait: he LOVES dogs. Actually his background story about his love for dogs made me tear up.
September 24, 2023
Large, thin, whatever - I don’t love books that have whiny self-pitying main characters. I get why maybe there is some self-doubt but Everly just has a victim mentality. The explanation and back story to why she supposedly tries to make herself invisible (which wasn’t executed super accurately) is lacking. Everyone is out to get her and it’s weird when she’s surprised a reality show would want to use all dramatic video footage they acquire. Literally the point of and mission of every reality show. This is 2023, who doesn’t know reality shows splice footage and audio and do things to fit their narrative. In reality, the show would have aired the footage Everly didn’t want seen and ratings would have skyrocketed. The proof is in every other reality show out there.
I don’t fully understand why she thought James nominating her for the show was so horrible. He seemed to have good intentions and it’s not easy when someone has an obvious crush on you and you don’t feel the same. She got to be on her favorite show and grow as a person. I don’t really see how it was about embarrassment. Maybe there just wasn’t a good enough job at making him seem evil when she was gushing about him at the beginning of the book?
Also, can we talk about how unprofessional Logan is? Interfering multiple times, letting his jealousy affect his job… there’s no way this would be allowed in real life. I don’t even think it was well established what he saw in Everly. All of a sudden they were just super into each other because of her sob story when he’s done this for two years already? She ran away like a 12 year old after the first kiss and then while he is supposed to be working, after he interferes yet again, he kisses her. I feel like there would be a production rule that they couldn’t get together during filming.
Everly’s mother was not great but you’re telling me they NEVER had the conversation about her mom’s weight in high school before? Her grandmother never told her? It’s amazing how something could have been cleared up and made better by simple communication. When parents or people in your life are truly toxic, it is when you have spoke up and they still continue their behavior. It’s weird to me, especially when she was so “confident” when her grandmother was living, that she’s never said anything or had a talk with her mom before about her remarks.
Overall I just couldn’t root for Everly or Everly and Logan. Or care if she “found herself.”
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Publishing Group for the ARC.
I don’t fully understand why she thought James nominating her for the show was so horrible. He seemed to have good intentions and it’s not easy when someone has an obvious crush on you and you don’t feel the same. She got to be on her favorite show and grow as a person. I don’t really see how it was about embarrassment. Maybe there just wasn’t a good enough job at making him seem evil when she was gushing about him at the beginning of the book?
Also, can we talk about how unprofessional Logan is? Interfering multiple times, letting his jealousy affect his job… there’s no way this would be allowed in real life. I don’t even think it was well established what he saw in Everly. All of a sudden they were just super into each other because of her sob story when he’s done this for two years already? She ran away like a 12 year old after the first kiss and then while he is supposed to be working, after he interferes yet again, he kisses her. I feel like there would be a production rule that they couldn’t get together during filming.
Everly’s mother was not great but you’re telling me they NEVER had the conversation about her mom’s weight in high school before? Her grandmother never told her? It’s amazing how something could have been cleared up and made better by simple communication. When parents or people in your life are truly toxic, it is when you have spoke up and they still continue their behavior. It’s weird to me, especially when she was so “confident” when her grandmother was living, that she’s never said anything or had a talk with her mom before about her remarks.
Overall I just couldn’t root for Everly or Everly and Logan. Or care if she “found herself.”
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Publishing Group for the ARC.
June 25, 2025
I'm a sucker for a good reality television show romance and this one was EXCELLENT! I loved the FMC, Everly, an unapologetically fat woman who is still trying to find the confidence to chase after her artistic dreams and overcome the toxic relationship she has with her mother.
Everly is also crushing on her work colleague, who unbeknownst to her nominates her for a reality makeover show for plus size people. Willing to take advantage of the show to help up her fashion game and achieve her life goals, Everly goes all in but finds herself falling for cinnamon roll hero cameraman Logan rather than her work crush the show tries to push her towards.
A slow burn, friends to lovers with a strong female lead, this was both heartfelt, funny and full of great emotional depth. I absolutely loved it especially all the talk about the challenges of finding clothes that fit fat people and the toxic nature of the fashion industry.
Great on audio narrated by Zura Johnson and recommended for fans of books like One to watch by Kate Stayman-London. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital and audio copy in exchange for my honest review!!
Steam level: open door
Everly is also crushing on her work colleague, who unbeknownst to her nominates her for a reality makeover show for plus size people. Willing to take advantage of the show to help up her fashion game and achieve her life goals, Everly goes all in but finds herself falling for cinnamon roll hero cameraman Logan rather than her work crush the show tries to push her towards.
A slow burn, friends to lovers with a strong female lead, this was both heartfelt, funny and full of great emotional depth. I absolutely loved it especially all the talk about the challenges of finding clothes that fit fat people and the toxic nature of the fashion industry.
Great on audio narrated by Zura Johnson and recommended for fans of books like One to watch by Kate Stayman-London. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital and audio copy in exchange for my honest review!!
Steam level: open door
August 4, 2024
in kind of a weird place where i do find myself (<-fat) drawn to fat posi romances but simultaneously i can only get maybe a third of the way through a novel composed entirely of You Are Enough idpol affirmations before i start thinking like… girl… some people have war in their countries…
December 27, 2023
Everly voluntarily joins a reality tv show
Everly when said show re-films and edits footage: 🫢😱😮
Everly when said show re-films and edits footage: 🫢😱😮
December 11, 2023
Absolutely loved this contemporary romance featuring a fat FMC. Everly is chosen to be on "On the Plus Side," a reality TV show in the vein of the most recent Queer Eye but featuring fat people. Everly is an OG fan of the show, and she's both excited and anxious to have been selected as a guest. She's nervous that the show will lose its magic since she gets to see behind the curtain ... but she's also hoping that the magic will work for her.
I really liked Jenny Howe's focus on Everly not as someone who needs a makeover to minimize herself, but as someone who needs help embracing all that she is and can be. She needs to show up as herself in life. Howe's emphasis on Everly finding herself again, rather than changing herself, is just lovely. And let's not forget this is a romance: Everly falls for the show's primary cameraman, Logan. She can't ignore his presence, and his compassionate perspective is a joy to read. Howe's choice to make the relationship conflict an external one made me a very happy reader. I love avoiding a 3rd act breakup in a natural way. And it's just so much nicer to read about a couple on the same side of an issue, who talk about it and decide what to do together, than it is to read about an antagonistic couple. (At least, for me!)
In sum: the writing is great, Everly is a wonderful character through whose eyes we experience the book, Logan is a supportive and understanding MMC, and I had a great time reading this. You should pick it up, especially if you like reading about reality TV shenanigans!
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
I really liked Jenny Howe's focus on Everly not as someone who needs a makeover to minimize herself, but as someone who needs help embracing all that she is and can be. She needs to show up as herself in life. Howe's emphasis on Everly finding herself again, rather than changing herself, is just lovely. And let's not forget this is a romance: Everly falls for the show's primary cameraman, Logan. She can't ignore his presence, and his compassionate perspective is a joy to read. Howe's choice to make the relationship conflict an external one made me a very happy reader. I love avoiding a 3rd act breakup in a natural way. And it's just so much nicer to read about a couple on the same side of an issue, who talk about it and decide what to do together, than it is to read about an antagonistic couple. (At least, for me!)
In sum: the writing is great, Everly is a wonderful character through whose eyes we experience the book, Logan is a supportive and understanding MMC, and I had a great time reading this. You should pick it up, especially if you like reading about reality TV shenanigans!
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
April 30, 2024
3½ stars
As a plus size reader I really appreciate this book. Almost every book I've read with a plus size fmc it seems the narrative is to have her be so insecure or to try to excuse away her own body. But Everly did none of that!
Everly does go on a show that help plus size people in aspects of their life after being nominated for it by someone in her life anonymously. While she didn't want to stand out in a crowd she never thought negatively of herself. While on this reality show Everly and Logan (the cameraman) begin getting closer. There was Romance in this and a smidgen of spice the story wasn't entirely focused on it. Overall good book.
As a plus size reader I really appreciate this book. Almost every book I've read with a plus size fmc it seems the narrative is to have her be so insecure or to try to excuse away her own body. But Everly did none of that!
Everly does go on a show that help plus size people in aspects of their life after being nominated for it by someone in her life anonymously. While she didn't want to stand out in a crowd she never thought negatively of herself. While on this reality show Everly and Logan (the cameraman) begin getting closer. There was Romance in this and a smidgen of spice the story wasn't entirely focused on it. Overall good book.
May 14, 2023
Ahhh thank you to the arc gods (st. martins marketing team + NetGalley) for this!!!
This was, much like Jenny L. Howe's debut, absolutely perfect; it's definitely a new favourite of mine! The fat representation was extremely realistic and relatable, very well done, just like in "The Make-Up Test," and the romance was super well done as well! I loved how the author tackled heavier topics like grief and family and self-expectations, and countered them with lighter humorous themes. The setting of the book was also super fun! I loved the reality tv show style of the book, and watching Everly find herself again was great. And Everly and Logan! My favourites! Their chemistry was amazing, and Howe wrote the romance absolutely spectacularly (love to see a man obsessed). Overall, this is funny, cute, steamy, emotional, and probably my favourite romance of the year so far!
This was, much like Jenny L. Howe's debut, absolutely perfect; it's definitely a new favourite of mine! The fat representation was extremely realistic and relatable, very well done, just like in "The Make-Up Test," and the romance was super well done as well! I loved how the author tackled heavier topics like grief and family and self-expectations, and countered them with lighter humorous themes. The setting of the book was also super fun! I loved the reality tv show style of the book, and watching Everly find herself again was great. And Everly and Logan! My favourites! Their chemistry was amazing, and Howe wrote the romance absolutely spectacularly (love to see a man obsessed). Overall, this is funny, cute, steamy, emotional, and probably my favourite romance of the year so far!
August 30, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
On The Plus Side not only gave me such strong emotions about plus size characters in fiction, but also gave me a chance to reflect on my own life and experience as a plus-sized woman in a straight-sized world. I saw myself in Everly in so many ways, and I felt what she felt in so many ways. On The Plus Side explores bodily differences, self-confidence and self-worth, and love in all its forms. Everly was a relatively basic character that offered relatable experiences that would appease most that read this novel, yet she was unique enough to keep interest.
I thoroughly enjoyed the perspective of this novel- being able to see the story through Everly, through the show, and through the online forums was a wonderful way to break up the traditional layout of most fiction novels.
My one concern about the plot is the number of times Everly seems to switch up what she wants to do. First, it's her art in general (the convention), then it's the design team at her current job, then a tattoo artist, and finally working with Logan's sanctuary project. I'm no stranger to being indecisive, but the switches made it difficult for me, as a reader, to mentally want Everly to accomplish everything. The tattoo arc was a little out of left field comparatively to her other options.
Thank you again NetGalley for the ARC!
On The Plus Side not only gave me such strong emotions about plus size characters in fiction, but also gave me a chance to reflect on my own life and experience as a plus-sized woman in a straight-sized world. I saw myself in Everly in so many ways, and I felt what she felt in so many ways. On The Plus Side explores bodily differences, self-confidence and self-worth, and love in all its forms. Everly was a relatively basic character that offered relatable experiences that would appease most that read this novel, yet she was unique enough to keep interest.
I thoroughly enjoyed the perspective of this novel- being able to see the story through Everly, through the show, and through the online forums was a wonderful way to break up the traditional layout of most fiction novels.
My one concern about the plot is the number of times Everly seems to switch up what she wants to do. First, it's her art in general (the convention), then it's the design team at her current job, then a tattoo artist, and finally working with Logan's sanctuary project. I'm no stranger to being indecisive, but the switches made it difficult for me, as a reader, to mentally want Everly to accomplish everything. The tattoo arc was a little out of left field comparatively to her other options.
Thank you again NetGalley for the ARC!
December 27, 2023
Review to come.
January 6, 2025
This was cute and very body positive. I liked it.
May 11, 2023
Thank you St-Martin's Publishing Group for the eARC of this.
I enjoyed this! I was left feeling much the same way as I did when I read the author's first book, the Make-Up Test. It was good, and I loved the representation, but I didn't feel like I connected with the characters all that much? I wasn't invested enough to feel swoony about the romance, so I was left with a mostly eh reading experience.
I'm also getting tired of romances with fat main characters always including the MC going on a "journey" to find/regain her confidence. Yes, it's something a lot of fat people go through and the stories should be told, but it'd also be nice to simply have a fat character just BE. It is possible for fat people to simply love themselves and have their confidence and not need to have other people help them "find" it.
That's my own personal soapbox and has less to do with the book. This was fun and cute! Definitely recommend!
I enjoyed this! I was left feeling much the same way as I did when I read the author's first book, the Make-Up Test. It was good, and I loved the representation, but I didn't feel like I connected with the characters all that much? I wasn't invested enough to feel swoony about the romance, so I was left with a mostly eh reading experience.
I'm also getting tired of romances with fat main characters always including the MC going on a "journey" to find/regain her confidence. Yes, it's something a lot of fat people go through and the stories should be told, but it'd also be nice to simply have a fat character just BE. It is possible for fat people to simply love themselves and have their confidence and not need to have other people help them "find" it.
That's my own personal soapbox and has less to do with the book. This was fun and cute! Definitely recommend!
January 8, 2024
I love that we’re seeing more and more plus size representation and I enjoyed how much this one resonated!
I liked how Howe addressed body image insecurities and ultimately tells an empowering tale as Everly learns to embrace herself and build her self confidence! I found her to be a well written MC who was smart and witty and someone you can easily connect with!
As a reality TV junkie myself, I loved that this one featured a reality TV show and truly relish when my two worlds collide! Bonus points for the fun and entertaining mixed media of Reddit points!
I liked how Howe addressed body image insecurities and ultimately tells an empowering tale as Everly learns to embrace herself and build her self confidence! I found her to be a well written MC who was smart and witty and someone you can easily connect with!
As a reality TV junkie myself, I loved that this one featured a reality TV show and truly relish when my two worlds collide! Bonus points for the fun and entertaining mixed media of Reddit points!
June 4, 2025
Was not a fan of this one. 0/10
December 8, 2023
A triumphant celebration of fat women!
This book, YOU GUYS, I am literally BEGGING you to read this book if you’re a contemporary romance lover.
The chemistry between Everly and Logan LEAPED off the page. It was quippy, fun, swoony and guess what? GOOD COMMUNICATION. No games. No miscommunication. Just honesty and vulnerability. They’re so hot for each other physically and emotionally.
Beyond the romance aspect is Everly’s identity as a fat woman. I LOVE that this book opens with a woman who is fat and self-assured in her fatness. It isn’t her relationship with her body that is the pain point, she’s already done the work to dismantle her internalized anti-fatness. No, this is a woman who has other insecurities that are so damn relatable and will speak to many and I felt soooo seen as a fat woman who isn’t interested in altering my body, but that doesn’t mean that I don’t grapple with the way the world sees and treats me for being in a bigger body!
I hope people of all sizes read this book because what Jenny has done here is expertly craft a fun, flirty romcom that also educates about anti-fatness and microaggressions towards fat people in a way that just makes sense. This book is a celebration of fatness, and I want my straight sized friends to not only enjoy the love story, but that fat celebration too!
Fat-friendly? 💚 I think it’s obvious that this isn’t just friendly, it’s celebratory! I always have a little trepidation going into a fat FMC book that it’s going to be one that only furthers anti-fat bias or really misses the mark (like - yeah I’m fat because I eat a lot, but #bodypositivity - that ain’t it)…but this book was such a smart, empathic, and empowering representation of fat folks! I have no notes.
Cheers Jenny! What a masterpiece!
Thank you NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for this ARC!
This book, YOU GUYS, I am literally BEGGING you to read this book if you’re a contemporary romance lover.
The chemistry between Everly and Logan LEAPED off the page. It was quippy, fun, swoony and guess what? GOOD COMMUNICATION. No games. No miscommunication. Just honesty and vulnerability. They’re so hot for each other physically and emotionally.
Beyond the romance aspect is Everly’s identity as a fat woman. I LOVE that this book opens with a woman who is fat and self-assured in her fatness. It isn’t her relationship with her body that is the pain point, she’s already done the work to dismantle her internalized anti-fatness. No, this is a woman who has other insecurities that are so damn relatable and will speak to many and I felt soooo seen as a fat woman who isn’t interested in altering my body, but that doesn’t mean that I don’t grapple with the way the world sees and treats me for being in a bigger body!
I hope people of all sizes read this book because what Jenny has done here is expertly craft a fun, flirty romcom that also educates about anti-fatness and microaggressions towards fat people in a way that just makes sense. This book is a celebration of fatness, and I want my straight sized friends to not only enjoy the love story, but that fat celebration too!
Fat-friendly? 💚 I think it’s obvious that this isn’t just friendly, it’s celebratory! I always have a little trepidation going into a fat FMC book that it’s going to be one that only furthers anti-fat bias or really misses the mark (like - yeah I’m fat because I eat a lot, but #bodypositivity - that ain’t it)…but this book was such a smart, empathic, and empowering representation of fat folks! I have no notes.
Cheers Jenny! What a masterpiece!
Thank you NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for this ARC!
September 22, 2023
“to me, you’re what matters.” ♡₊˚
ugh this was just the sweetest thing! when i saw this on netgalley, i remembered seeing a tiktok about a scene from it and i instantly thought i would enjoy this book, and i’m so glad i was right!
everly was such a relatable character, as a fellow plus size babe, and it was really refreshing to see and understand where she was coming from with her struggles! the representation was *chef’s kiss* phenomenal, and i love the concept of the tv show from this book, even if the director was a little sus 👀
but i thought that everly’s journey was really inspiring and i loved seeing her grow back into her personality and chase her dreams! not to mention her romance with logan, who has to be the cutest man i’ve ever read about for real. i loved his humor and the subtle ways he looked after everly while on the show. their romance was too sweet!
overall this was such a great read- i was into it from the very beginning and i really enjoyed falling in love with the characters and the story!
huge thank you to netgalley and st. martin’s press for sending me an arc in exchange for an honest review!
ugh this was just the sweetest thing! when i saw this on netgalley, i remembered seeing a tiktok about a scene from it and i instantly thought i would enjoy this book, and i’m so glad i was right!
everly was such a relatable character, as a fellow plus size babe, and it was really refreshing to see and understand where she was coming from with her struggles! the representation was *chef’s kiss* phenomenal, and i love the concept of the tv show from this book, even if the director was a little sus 👀
but i thought that everly’s journey was really inspiring and i loved seeing her grow back into her personality and chase her dreams! not to mention her romance with logan, who has to be the cutest man i’ve ever read about for real. i loved his humor and the subtle ways he looked after everly while on the show. their romance was too sweet!
overall this was such a great read- i was into it from the very beginning and i really enjoyed falling in love with the characters and the story!
huge thank you to netgalley and st. martin’s press for sending me an arc in exchange for an honest review!
June 11, 2023
This was such a lovely read for me! It really gripped my heartstrings the entire time and it was so easy to fall in love with our two main characters. Their love is sweet, spicy, and over all made me feel so good!
On The Plus Side did a great job at plus-size representation in this book, making it so much more enjoyable and relatable. The author hit it on the head when she was writing this, and everything within the book feels genuine and real.
The realness of this book makes it! I absolutely loved this book and can't wait to read more from Jenny L Howe!
Thank you NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
On The Plus Side did a great job at plus-size representation in this book, making it so much more enjoyable and relatable. The author hit it on the head when she was writing this, and everything within the book feels genuine and real.
The realness of this book makes it! I absolutely loved this book and can't wait to read more from Jenny L Howe!
Thank you NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 20, 2024
so millennial I cannot. final line (SPOILER!) is about naming a dog cannoli. sigh. suitable as my walking-to-class-so-i'll-pay-half-attention audiobook. also it's SO FUNNY when characters are like "hey are you okay?" and the person they're in conversation with is like "My grandma died when I was 20....." like ok??? this is totally how conversation works and how backstories are revealed
May 21, 2023
3.75 stars rounded up
December 17, 2023
Everly Winters is a talented artist but is perfectly happy to live and work in the shadow. She works as a receptionist at her company instead of a graphic designer. She wears dark colours and doesn't go out much since her grandma died. She uses an anonymous username on the online forums for her favorite make-over show, ON THE PLUS SIDE. When someone nominates her for the next season of ON THE PLUS SIDE, her life is about to change. With the three hosts constantly around and the grumpy cameraman, Logan Samuel giving her heart palpitations, she realizes that it is time to stop hiding and become the Everly she used to be, the one her grandma would be proud of.
This book might be a romance, but it has some deeper issues within it's covers. Being a plus size woman, I understand Everly's feelings and actions. I would wear only dark colours, flowy clothes and keep to the edges at gatherings, hoping to be unobtrusive. This book celebrates people for who they are. They encourage Everly to look her best, wear clothes that make her look beautiful and not hide. I love what it does for Everly's self-confidence. The other main theme is the way reality television treats it's contestants/participants. Things happen during the filming that are intrusive and dishonest, and Everly and others have to make some serious decisions. I really liked the romance. Logan was amazing. He was attracted to Everly's strength from the beginning and quickly began to defend her to others. He also helped her to get a backbone and stand up for herself at work. I guess you could say it was a bit of a grumpy/sunshine trope. I loved their banter, laughing at it often, and the gradual development of their relationship. The fat representation was extremely realistic and relatable, and the author talks about her use of the word "fat" in the book before it starts. Overall, this is a funny, cute, steamy, and emotional, story, with a wonderful self-love message. I listened to the audiobook that was narrated by Zura Johnson. I enjoyed her narration, especially her voices and expression that were perfect for this book. If you enjoy a good contemporary romance, books about reality TV or stories about personal growth and self-esteem, then I think you would enjoy On the Plus Side.
This book might be a romance, but it has some deeper issues within it's covers. Being a plus size woman, I understand Everly's feelings and actions. I would wear only dark colours, flowy clothes and keep to the edges at gatherings, hoping to be unobtrusive. This book celebrates people for who they are. They encourage Everly to look her best, wear clothes that make her look beautiful and not hide. I love what it does for Everly's self-confidence. The other main theme is the way reality television treats it's contestants/participants. Things happen during the filming that are intrusive and dishonest, and Everly and others have to make some serious decisions. I really liked the romance. Logan was amazing. He was attracted to Everly's strength from the beginning and quickly began to defend her to others. He also helped her to get a backbone and stand up for herself at work. I guess you could say it was a bit of a grumpy/sunshine trope. I loved their banter, laughing at it often, and the gradual development of their relationship. The fat representation was extremely realistic and relatable, and the author talks about her use of the word "fat" in the book before it starts. Overall, this is a funny, cute, steamy, and emotional, story, with a wonderful self-love message. I listened to the audiobook that was narrated by Zura Johnson. I enjoyed her narration, especially her voices and expression that were perfect for this book. If you enjoy a good contemporary romance, books about reality TV or stories about personal growth and self-esteem, then I think you would enjoy On the Plus Side.
December 11, 2023
A wonderful story about learning to love yourself and show the world that size doesn’t matter. Everly was a breath of fresh air: shy and uncomfortable in the spotlight but then growing into the person she was meant to be. I loved the transformation she goes through and how shows like this can be both positive and negative. The writing drew me in from the beginning and kept me glued with Everly’s humor, vulnerability, and her relationships with her family. A great tale about accepting who you are and thriving rather than trying to be something you’re not.
Narration was well done, no issues.
I received a copy from #NetGalley, @stmartinspress, and @spotifyaudiobooks for an honest review.
Narration was well done, no issues.
I received a copy from #NetGalley, @stmartinspress, and @spotifyaudiobooks for an honest review.
November 17, 2023
Everly is a contestant on a makeover show for fat women (I personally loathe the term "plus-size" and find it reductive and annoying, so I will be using the word fat here). She meets grumpy lumberjack cameraman Logan and they fall in lurrrrve.
There was a lot to enjoy about this book - I'm always a fan of a fellow fat lady getting some action and thought Everly and Logan's relationship was sweet. Some of the reality tv parts didn't work for me - mainly because I don't watch much of it and even I know that they are going to manipulate the narrative and use whatever they can get their hands on to manufacture drama and boost ratings, so Everly's sense of betrayal that they weren't telling her story exactly as she wanted felt overly naive. That said, this was a fun, quick read that I'll be recommending.
* thanks to St. Martin's Press / Griffin for the NetGalley review copy. ON THE PLUS SIDE publishes December 26.
There was a lot to enjoy about this book - I'm always a fan of a fellow fat lady getting some action and thought Everly and Logan's relationship was sweet. Some of the reality tv parts didn't work for me - mainly because I don't watch much of it and even I know that they are going to manipulate the narrative and use whatever they can get their hands on to manufacture drama and boost ratings, so Everly's sense of betrayal that they weren't telling her story exactly as she wanted felt overly naive. That said, this was a fun, quick read that I'll be recommending.
* thanks to St. Martin's Press / Griffin for the NetGalley review copy. ON THE PLUS SIDE publishes December 26.
October 20, 2023
I loved the premise of this book, a curvy girl finding the confidence to go after what she wants despite her weight.
I had a couple of problems with the book:
1) I didn't like the writing style. Something about it just put me off.
2) the FMC was hard to relate to. She was extremely immature and just also a meh character.
3) the MMC was completely forgettable. I honestly can't even remember his name.
What I did like:
1) The plot starts on page 1. She was bombarded by the hosts of her favorite show right off the bat
2) It reminded me of Queer Eye. I absolutely adore the Fab 5!
3) Reminds all of us that we should go for what we want in life and not give a s**t what we look like.
I had a couple of problems with the book:
1) I didn't like the writing style. Something about it just put me off.
2) the FMC was hard to relate to. She was extremely immature and just also a meh character.
3) the MMC was completely forgettable. I honestly can't even remember his name.
What I did like:
1) The plot starts on page 1. She was bombarded by the hosts of her favorite show right off the bat
2) It reminded me of Queer Eye. I absolutely adore the Fab 5!
3) Reminds all of us that we should go for what we want in life and not give a s**t what we look like.
February 3, 2024
Brutal bad. Super repetitive language and character dialogue. and Everly was just…not working for me. I didn’t feel endeared to her at all. Every single physical touch described was painfully awkward and the descriptive language was very juvenile. Idk. I wanted to DNF 1,000 times and wish I would have.
July 25, 2023
Thank you St. Martin’s Press and Jenny for an early copy. This book was such a delight!!!! I read it in one go on a plane and simply couldn’t put it down. I loved reading a book about a fat positive tv show and a grumpy man simping hard. It was great!
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