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Not Up for Debate
She craves control. He makes her lose it.
Jane Robins has everything figured out. Her closet is organized, her bookshelf is color-coded, and she's one of the top corporate litigators in the country. Everything in her life is going exactly according to plan…
…until it isn't.
After being whisked away from her home in Denver, Colorado to a luxury resort in Hawaii, she unexpectedly comes face to face with the only man she has ever truly hated.
How is this hardheaded, arrogant man able to get inside her head? How is he able to make her question everything? And how the hell does he still look so irresistible while doing it?
Comparing the man she sees now to the boy she once knew, Jane questions whether he is still the same or if maybe there is something more. Can she open up enough to change her perspective and let love in? Or is the past too hard to forget?
Jane Robins has everything figured out. Her closet is organized, her bookshelf is color-coded, and she's one of the top corporate litigators in the country. Everything in her life is going exactly according to plan…
…until it isn't.
After being whisked away from her home in Denver, Colorado to a luxury resort in Hawaii, she unexpectedly comes face to face with the only man she has ever truly hated.
How is this hardheaded, arrogant man able to get inside her head? How is he able to make her question everything? And how the hell does he still look so irresistible while doing it?
Comparing the man she sees now to the boy she once knew, Jane questions whether he is still the same or if maybe there is something more. Can she open up enough to change her perspective and let love in? Or is the past too hard to forget?
367 pages, Paperback
Published April 9, 2025
5 people are currently reading
70 people want to read
About the author
Emma Norman
1 book10 followersEmma Norman is a Montana-based author who loves warm sunny days and cooking for her family. She is married to the most perfect husband who loves all things outdoors, but also has a soft spot for learning and literature. Emma also has four amazing and rowdy children who are her pride and joy. When she’s not writing her novels, you can catch her homeschooling her kids, reading to her kids, or playing with her kids. Basically it's all kids, all the time, and she wouldn’t have it any other way.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
March 12, 2025
Thank you to Book Sirens and author Emma Norman for the opportunity to read this ARC 💕
Very sweet second chance romance!
First, I really appreciated the anxiety representation in this book. Jane is a perfectionist and tends to get in her head a lot, and that's very relatable to me. Outside of that, I feel like her character was a bit dramatic at times, but she's sweet and smart and ambitious, very likeable. And Noah is so charming and charismatic, and so considerate when it comes to Jane's anxiety and emotions. They balance each other out so well! I also really loved the summery vibes and setting 😍
I did think that the relationship moved awfully fast towards the end of the book, but overall I really enjoyed this story!
Very sweet second chance romance!
First, I really appreciated the anxiety representation in this book. Jane is a perfectionist and tends to get in her head a lot, and that's very relatable to me. Outside of that, I feel like her character was a bit dramatic at times, but she's sweet and smart and ambitious, very likeable. And Noah is so charming and charismatic, and so considerate when it comes to Jane's anxiety and emotions. They balance each other out so well! I also really loved the summery vibes and setting 😍
I did think that the relationship moved awfully fast towards the end of the book, but overall I really enjoyed this story!
April 12, 2025
Hi there! This is my book! I just want to take a minute to say thank you from the bottom of my heart for taking the chance to read this silly little rom-com! It was so much fun to write, and I hope you can feel that as you read it.
Writing this book healed a part of me that I didn't even know needed healing, and I sincerely hope you all enjoy it as much as I do.
Thank you all so much for being here. Happy Reading!
Emma
Writing this book healed a part of me that I didn't even know needed healing, and I sincerely hope you all enjoy it as much as I do.
Thank you all so much for being here. Happy Reading!
Emma
April 15, 2025
My most disliked troupe is the miscommunication troupe. That said, this book does that in a different, I actually didn’t want to pull my hair out way. There were times I found the MC very self deprecating )I’m aware there was some growth) and honestly annoying which is why the 4 star instead of 5. My spouse is great and all, but I’d take a Noah any day. Shout out to BookSirens for the e-arc to read and review for free. All opinions are my own.
March 20, 2025
Thank you so much, BookSirens for giving me the opportunity to get me an ARC.
This book was really something. It’s the epitome of true love, of how two people are meant to be.
Jane and Noah are so similar, the same part of an identical soul. Reading their story, you can practically feel their bond, their connection. It was really profound, emotional and heartfelt. They see each other, really see each other. They’re not afraid of showing whom they are, their inside.
It was like being in a cocoon of warm gooey feelings. Love pouring down and seeping through the pages directly to the heart of the reader.
I think this is what truly love is: finding that person whom sees you, understands you, makes you happy and serene, supports you unconditionally.
I super recommend it! The sweetest and most heartwarming book ❤️
4.5 🌟
This book was really something. It’s the epitome of true love, of how two people are meant to be.
Jane and Noah are so similar, the same part of an identical soul. Reading their story, you can practically feel their bond, their connection. It was really profound, emotional and heartfelt. They see each other, really see each other. They’re not afraid of showing whom they are, their inside.
It was like being in a cocoon of warm gooey feelings. Love pouring down and seeping through the pages directly to the heart of the reader.
I think this is what truly love is: finding that person whom sees you, understands you, makes you happy and serene, supports you unconditionally.
I super recommend it! The sweetest and most heartwarming book ❤️
4.5 🌟
March 20, 2025
Thank you, booksiren for the ARC into the author for giving me an opportunity to read this before he comes out in the market . This book was amazing. It was a short bit sweet that the main character it’s so reliable as a perfect perfectionist as a professional person and someone who was anxious to find love. I could definitely identify with this book. I think the author did an excellent job representing someone who craves and has anxiety for being a perfect person in their love life and in their professional life and how that will impact love and help people see you but love you and accepts you.
April 12, 2025
Hi there! This is my book! I just want to take a minute to say thank you from the bottom of my heart for taking the chance to read this silly little rom-com! It was so much fun to write, and I hope you can feel that as you read it.
Writing this book healed a part of me that I didn't even know needed healing, and I sincerely hope you all enjoy it as much as I do.
Thank you all so much for being here. Happy Reading!
Emma
Writing this book healed a part of me that I didn't even know needed healing, and I sincerely hope you all enjoy it as much as I do.
Thank you all so much for being here. Happy Reading!
Emma
April 29, 2025
Thank you to Book Sirens for the ARC!!!!
Well, considering I cried at the end, that’s gotta tell ya something about this stellar read. Somewhere along the way I fell in love with the characters. The way tje past and present was shown using two different timelines helped to illustrate the true complexity of two people. Everything isn’t always black and white and our past is important to our future.
Would definitely recommend this to anyone who loves a cute romance novel!!
Well, considering I cried at the end, that’s gotta tell ya something about this stellar read. Somewhere along the way I fell in love with the characters. The way tje past and present was shown using two different timelines helped to illustrate the true complexity of two people. Everything isn’t always black and white and our past is important to our future.
Would definitely recommend this to anyone who loves a cute romance novel!!
March 22, 2025
This enemies to lovers, flash back romance was right up my street! No spoilers but I really enjoyed the writing that included family history, therapy and CBT techniques and a storyline that had me hooked from chapter one. Would definitely recommend!
I received an ARC copy for free in exchange for an honest review.
I received an ARC copy for free in exchange for an honest review.
March 22, 2025
Really cute second chance romance.
March 14, 2025
I love this book! The writing is just superb, amazing. I love so much about it, where do I start?! It is written with flashbacks and usually that might be annoying, but these flashbacks add to the story and explain why Jane felt the way she did.
Jane was such a wonderful character; brilliant, flawed, lovable and a little damaged, but honest and she’s trying to always self reflect and grow. She also has these little quirky habits that made her realistic and fun. I love that she didn’t hold a grudge at her co-worker for being named partner at the law firm when she was supposed to get the job. I love that she was very organized, her clothes categorized by season (mine too!) and she loves to make lists. I laughed when she set a timer to worry - you’ll have to read about it and then you’ll laugh, too.
It is fun to read but also has so many layers and depth, because Jane was a perfectionist due to her parent’s high expectations. She had developed an incessant need to ensure everyone around her thinks she always has everything figured out all the time. Of course that doesn’t work, she only gets stuck mentally. And she was so convinced that Noah was the bad guy because he made her become unbalanced and she didn’t know how to deal with that. Noah always seemed so perfect, so in control, so loved by everyone, something Jane craves. But her perspective gets turned upside down so she needs to reassess her values, her self-worth, her perspective on everything. Noah - he’s a real character, lovable, loyal, smart, funny but also shaped by his upbringing. It is such a good book, I loved it.
I loved their playful bickering, the things that weren’t up for debate. I also really liked Jane’s best friend Jordyn and their banter. I loved Jane’s Nan, who loved her and was so good to her. My heart broke for both Jane and Noah for what they went through. But it’s so relatable, so many people experienced the same things growing up, and it shapes you. And it’s hard to overcome. But it is possible. And if you find the right man, he will always make you feel loved, cherished and valued.
The one thing that I was sad about, was the talk of masturbation at the beginning of the book. I felt it was not necessary and I think the story would have been perfect without it. There was also one sex scene and a moderate amount of secular swearing.
In summary, the book is absolutely worth reading. The ending is perfect, the epilogue is the best epilogue and truly everything in the book gets wrapped up perfectly. Go buy this book! You won’t regret it!
And now I want a brownie…
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Jane was such a wonderful character; brilliant, flawed, lovable and a little damaged, but honest and she’s trying to always self reflect and grow. She also has these little quirky habits that made her realistic and fun. I love that she didn’t hold a grudge at her co-worker for being named partner at the law firm when she was supposed to get the job. I love that she was very organized, her clothes categorized by season (mine too!) and she loves to make lists. I laughed when she set a timer to worry - you’ll have to read about it and then you’ll laugh, too.
It is fun to read but also has so many layers and depth, because Jane was a perfectionist due to her parent’s high expectations. She had developed an incessant need to ensure everyone around her thinks she always has everything figured out all the time. Of course that doesn’t work, she only gets stuck mentally. And she was so convinced that Noah was the bad guy because he made her become unbalanced and she didn’t know how to deal with that. Noah always seemed so perfect, so in control, so loved by everyone, something Jane craves. But her perspective gets turned upside down so she needs to reassess her values, her self-worth, her perspective on everything. Noah - he’s a real character, lovable, loyal, smart, funny but also shaped by his upbringing. It is such a good book, I loved it.
I loved their playful bickering, the things that weren’t up for debate. I also really liked Jane’s best friend Jordyn and their banter. I loved Jane’s Nan, who loved her and was so good to her. My heart broke for both Jane and Noah for what they went through. But it’s so relatable, so many people experienced the same things growing up, and it shapes you. And it’s hard to overcome. But it is possible. And if you find the right man, he will always make you feel loved, cherished and valued.
The one thing that I was sad about, was the talk of masturbation at the beginning of the book. I felt it was not necessary and I think the story would have been perfect without it. There was also one sex scene and a moderate amount of secular swearing.
In summary, the book is absolutely worth reading. The ending is perfect, the epilogue is the best epilogue and truly everything in the book gets wrapped up perfectly. Go buy this book! You won’t regret it!
And now I want a brownie…
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 3, 2025
⭐ 4.5
🌶️ 1
🥵 Spicy chapters: 30
📚 Tropes/Themes: second chance, Hawaiian vacation, it's always been you, hate to love, dual timeline, slow burn, mental health rep, vacation romance
👀 Single POV 1st person
💔 Triggers: mentions of parental death, alcoholism, panic attacks
🛍️ Available: Now
💬 Ermahgawd this was so good 🥹 I got sucked into this pretty quickly and basically binged 70% in one go. I'm such a sucker for second chances romances and this one did not disappoint! It's sweet, funny, and well written.
Most of what I loved has already been touched on by other reviews but I want to mention one of my favorite things was that Jane was so open about wanting to get married and have kids. I feel like I've read so many child free books lately (which doesn't resonate with me at all) that this was such a breath of fresh air. It made my little heart so happy lol.
Along with that, I liked how she cried easily hahaha. I'm a crier, and sometimes the dumbest shit makes me tear up because it makes me emotional. I'm forever reading books with strong FMCs who can somehow stop the waterworks "burning at the back of their eyes", which is not me at all so it was nice to be seen lol.
I also thought the third act drama was well done, although it's hard to explain without giving much away. While I didn't really connect with Jane over shared life struggles per se, in that part I can definitely relate and I could absolutely see myself responding the same way she did.
du
I wish it had been dual POV since that's my fave, but I loved Noah's perspective in the epilogue. I also noticed it was a tiny bit repetitive with the "smile that doesn't reach the eyes" phrase, but it didn't really detract from the story.
Overall it was a solid, engaging story, and a quick read that I adored.
🌶️ 1
🥵 Spicy chapters: 30
📚 Tropes/Themes: second chance, Hawaiian vacation, it's always been you, hate to love, dual timeline, slow burn, mental health rep, vacation romance
👀 Single POV 1st person
💔 Triggers: mentions of parental death, alcoholism, panic attacks
🛍️ Available: Now
💬 Ermahgawd this was so good 🥹 I got sucked into this pretty quickly and basically binged 70% in one go. I'm such a sucker for second chances romances and this one did not disappoint! It's sweet, funny, and well written.
Most of what I loved has already been touched on by other reviews but I want to mention one of my favorite things was that Jane was so open about wanting to get married and have kids. I feel like I've read so many child free books lately (which doesn't resonate with me at all) that this was such a breath of fresh air. It made my little heart so happy lol.
Along with that, I liked how she cried easily hahaha. I'm a crier, and sometimes the dumbest shit makes me tear up because it makes me emotional. I'm forever reading books with strong FMCs who can somehow stop the waterworks "burning at the back of their eyes", which is not me at all so it was nice to be seen lol.
I also thought the third act drama was well done, although it's hard to explain without giving much away. While I didn't really connect with Jane over shared life struggles per se, in that part I can definitely relate and I could absolutely see myself responding the same way she did.
du
I wish it had been dual POV since that's my fave, but I loved Noah's perspective in the epilogue. I also noticed it was a tiny bit repetitive with the "smile that doesn't reach the eyes" phrase, but it didn't really detract from the story.
Overall it was a solid, engaging story, and a quick read that I adored.
March 21, 2025
3.75 stars!
I think it's a really funny coincidence that I wound up reading two Hawaii-set, workplace vacation style romances in the same month and have them be such completely different vibes from each other.
Not Up for Debate was a very funny, heart-warmingly charming story and I had quite a good time reading it. The writing felt matched to the genre of the book, a light-hearted rom-com. It had humor in it, and pulls you right into the feelings of the FMC.
I related SO HARD to a lot of what Jane was dealing with internally, her character had a lot of anxiety/mental health rep going on. She struggles with the view of perfectionism and not living up to the expectations of those around her, believing she needs to stay in control in order to succeed in life.
The banter between Jane and the MMC Noah equal parts made me laugh and cringe. Which for me, is exactly the kind of banter I love to read in a rom-com type of story. I wish I could have read this on a beach somewhere with a plate of brownies beside me. I encourage you to grab a brownie before you start reading. You'll understand. And you'll have a snack to keep you going through the best parts of the book and thank me for it. You're welcome.
If you're a fan of a beachy vacation setting, second-chance romance, and cheeky banter, then I think you'd enjoy picking this up.
Thank you to BookSirens for a free ARC of this to read and review.
I think it's a really funny coincidence that I wound up reading two Hawaii-set, workplace vacation style romances in the same month and have them be such completely different vibes from each other.
Not Up for Debate was a very funny, heart-warmingly charming story and I had quite a good time reading it. The writing felt matched to the genre of the book, a light-hearted rom-com. It had humor in it, and pulls you right into the feelings of the FMC.
I related SO HARD to a lot of what Jane was dealing with internally, her character had a lot of anxiety/mental health rep going on. She struggles with the view of perfectionism and not living up to the expectations of those around her, believing she needs to stay in control in order to succeed in life.
The banter between Jane and the MMC Noah equal parts made me laugh and cringe. Which for me, is exactly the kind of banter I love to read in a rom-com type of story. I wish I could have read this on a beach somewhere with a plate of brownies beside me. I encourage you to grab a brownie before you start reading. You'll understand. And you'll have a snack to keep you going through the best parts of the book and thank me for it. You're welcome.
If you're a fan of a beachy vacation setting, second-chance romance, and cheeky banter, then I think you'd enjoy picking this up.
Thank you to BookSirens for a free ARC of this to read and review.
April 1, 2025
I love a nice romantic comedy book and all the tropes that come with them like ‘first loves’, the stupid miscommunication, all of it. I was excited to read this and thought it had a lot of potential.
PROS:
- the MMC seems perfect (so perfect it was almost a con). He communicates well, he’s patient, attractive, and the mistake that led to all this he was remorseful
- I love going back and forth between ‘then’ and ‘now’
- I enjoyed the chapter length
- Several opportunity for funny situations like the massage and hike
CONS:
- The FMC almost made me stop reading the book. We all have insecurities but she frustrated me beyond belief
- The big conflict felt very lackluster and over dramatic. I like a bit of miscommunication in romance books because it keeps the story going but this just felt… like a let down?
- I didn’t think it was as witty as it had the opportunity to be. Their banter was a bit boring and while we heard how funny she was from the MMC, I personally didn’t experience it.
Overall, I think it has a lot of potential and I’d consider reading a future book but this one missed the mark for me.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
PROS:
- the MMC seems perfect (so perfect it was almost a con). He communicates well, he’s patient, attractive, and the mistake that led to all this he was remorseful
- I love going back and forth between ‘then’ and ‘now’
- I enjoyed the chapter length
- Several opportunity for funny situations like the massage and hike
CONS:
- The FMC almost made me stop reading the book. We all have insecurities but she frustrated me beyond belief
- The big conflict felt very lackluster and over dramatic. I like a bit of miscommunication in romance books because it keeps the story going but this just felt… like a let down?
- I didn’t think it was as witty as it had the opportunity to be. Their banter was a bit boring and while we heard how funny she was from the MMC, I personally didn’t experience it.
Overall, I think it has a lot of potential and I’d consider reading a future book but this one missed the mark for me.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
April 13, 2025
Surprisingly Sweet!
This book is a breath of fresh air. Jane and Noah meet as teenagers on rival debate teams and after some initial tension, they start to connect. After a misunderstanding, they lose touch and Jane is heartbroken. After about 13 years they encounter each other again during a business trip in Hawaii. Turns out they are both working for different branches of the same law firm, and have to spend a week together at their new clients’ resort. Let the fun begin. This is a slow burn, sweet second chance romance that is fun to watch unfold. While Jane struggles with some insecurities and high anxiety - Noah is just “that guy” constantly reassuring her and gently pushing her to break down her boundaries. After some of the facts from their past are brought to light, everything is not as it seems for either one of them. Can they trust each other as their feelings resurface along with their strong attraction to each other? This is a quick and fun read. Not too much spice but what’s there is very good! I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for this honest review.
This book is a breath of fresh air. Jane and Noah meet as teenagers on rival debate teams and after some initial tension, they start to connect. After a misunderstanding, they lose touch and Jane is heartbroken. After about 13 years they encounter each other again during a business trip in Hawaii. Turns out they are both working for different branches of the same law firm, and have to spend a week together at their new clients’ resort. Let the fun begin. This is a slow burn, sweet second chance romance that is fun to watch unfold. While Jane struggles with some insecurities and high anxiety - Noah is just “that guy” constantly reassuring her and gently pushing her to break down her boundaries. After some of the facts from their past are brought to light, everything is not as it seems for either one of them. Can they trust each other as their feelings resurface along with their strong attraction to each other? This is a quick and fun read. Not too much spice but what’s there is very good! I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for this honest review.
March 22, 2025
Not Up for Debate by Emma Norman is a captivating debut that masterfully intertwines the enemies-to-lovers trope with a richly developed narrative. Set against the backdrop of a tropical vacation, the story introduces readers to Jane Robins, a meticulous and organized individual whose world is upended by the reappearance of Noah Riley, a figure from her past. Their interactions are filled with witty banter and palpable tension, making for an engaging and heartfelt read.
Norman's writing shines with its charm, wit, and emotional depth. The characters are well-crafted and relatable, drawing readers into their journey of self-discovery and rekindled connections. The slow-burn romance is executed beautifully, keeping readers invested from start to finish.
This novel is a delightful blend of humor, emotion, and romance, making it a must-read for fans of contemporary romance. Emma Norman's debut is a testament to her storytelling prowess, leaving readers eagerly anticipating her future works.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Norman's writing shines with its charm, wit, and emotional depth. The characters are well-crafted and relatable, drawing readers into their journey of self-discovery and rekindled connections. The slow-burn romance is executed beautifully, keeping readers invested from start to finish.
This novel is a delightful blend of humor, emotion, and romance, making it a must-read for fans of contemporary romance. Emma Norman's debut is a testament to her storytelling prowess, leaving readers eagerly anticipating her future works.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 21, 2025
"Not Up for Debate" is a super cute, funny, and very bingeable second chance romance. — I devoured this book! I'm writing this review at 3am, because I just couldn't put it down.
Lowkey obsessed with Jane & Noah! I've got a soft spot for a smart-ass, goofy man 🤌🏼 (so much so, I married one lol) and snarky banter is my favorite snack - I'll eat it up for days! This was perfect. Jane is my brownie obsessed (same), anxious (also same) spirit animal and I love her. Seriously it was like everything going on in her internal monologue I was replying "I feel you girl" in my head because I've been there.
I also really loved the use of flashbacks within the story. It was quite enjoyable going back and forth and learning more about them in both the present & past.
Huge thanks to Emma Norman and Book Sirens for the free ARC!
Lowkey obsessed with Jane & Noah! I've got a soft spot for a smart-ass, goofy man 🤌🏼 (so much so, I married one lol) and snarky banter is my favorite snack - I'll eat it up for days! This was perfect. Jane is my brownie obsessed (same), anxious (also same) spirit animal and I love her. Seriously it was like everything going on in her internal monologue I was replying "I feel you girl" in my head because I've been there.
I also really loved the use of flashbacks within the story. It was quite enjoyable going back and forth and learning more about them in both the present & past.
Huge thanks to Emma Norman and Book Sirens for the free ARC!
March 13, 2025
I made it 60% of the way through before I got up and made a batch of brownies. I couldn’t resist!
As a perfectionist, type A personality with a color coded-closet, I deeply related to Jane. I found myself plucking so many bits off the page thinking, “yeah, I’ve been there too.”
I definitely got secondhand embarrassment as I read the birthday song scene, and that’s the beauty of Emma Norman’s writing. I was right there with the characters on the page.
Noah was so fun to get to know. I admire him for the choices he made at a mere 18 years old. I loved how he studied Jane like his favorite book, and really sought to understand her—love her, because of her imperfections, not in spite of them.
This book was a fun ride from start to finish, and made me want to book my own vacation stat!
As a perfectionist, type A personality with a color coded-closet, I deeply related to Jane. I found myself plucking so many bits off the page thinking, “yeah, I’ve been there too.”
I definitely got secondhand embarrassment as I read the birthday song scene, and that’s the beauty of Emma Norman’s writing. I was right there with the characters on the page.
Noah was so fun to get to know. I admire him for the choices he made at a mere 18 years old. I loved how he studied Jane like his favorite book, and really sought to understand her—love her, because of her imperfections, not in spite of them.
This book was a fun ride from start to finish, and made me want to book my own vacation stat!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 22, 2025
Thank you BookSirens for providing me with a free ARC of this book, I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I read this romance in one go and truly enjoyed it.
I liked the writing style a lot, it was full of charm, wit and emotions.
Was it possible that cute funny scenes can make you laugh but bring you tears at the same time? I guessed the reason was that I felt great empathy towards Jane. Even when she was having a good time, some invisible pressure of not being good enough to deserve happiness was always there, and that made me feel so sad. I was glad that Jane and Noah found each other, and loved every second of their moments, either back in high school or in the present days.
I’m looking forward to the next book from this author.
I read this romance in one go and truly enjoyed it.
I liked the writing style a lot, it was full of charm, wit and emotions.
Was it possible that cute funny scenes can make you laugh but bring you tears at the same time? I guessed the reason was that I felt great empathy towards Jane. Even when she was having a good time, some invisible pressure of not being good enough to deserve happiness was always there, and that made me feel so sad. I was glad that Jane and Noah found each other, and loved every second of their moments, either back in high school or in the present days.
I’m looking forward to the next book from this author.
March 27, 2025
Noah and Jane have a complicated past. Both were the captain of their respective high school debate teams. But Jane is devastated when Noah takes the win. She never sees him again. Until he walks in at a meeting with Jane’s dream client. To find out they are to work together on the same account is overwhelming. But when the client gets called away leaving the two of them to finish their vacation, Noah is happy to see her and convinces Jane to spend time with him. Their interactions are great as they start to open up and realize what the other has been through. Great characters, great story. Loved this book! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 12, 2025
ARC Review
A cute and heart-tugging frenemies-to-lovers story with just the right mix of humor, emotion, and nostalgia. The resort and lazy summer days setting gives the perfect cozy vibe, and the flashbacks to their teenage years add a lovely touch of depth and sentimentality.
What really stood out to me—aside from the cute and genuinely funny moments—is how the story gently explores the impact of childhood trauma. It’s woven into the romance in a way that feels honest and powerful without overshadowing the lighter moments. The emotional growth of both characters felt authentic, and their journey from rivals to something much deeper was incredibly satisfying.
It’s a romance that made me smile, laugh, and think—and I enjoyed every minute of it.
A cute and heart-tugging frenemies-to-lovers story with just the right mix of humor, emotion, and nostalgia. The resort and lazy summer days setting gives the perfect cozy vibe, and the flashbacks to their teenage years add a lovely touch of depth and sentimentality.
What really stood out to me—aside from the cute and genuinely funny moments—is how the story gently explores the impact of childhood trauma. It’s woven into the romance in a way that feels honest and powerful without overshadowing the lighter moments. The emotional growth of both characters felt authentic, and their journey from rivals to something much deeper was incredibly satisfying.
It’s a romance that made me smile, laugh, and think—and I enjoyed every minute of it.
March 13, 2025
I'm not typically one who goes for a romance novel. However, when the opportunity was presented to be an ARC, I decided to jump on it. (Who doesn't love reading a book early?) I'm happy to say I'm extremely glad that I did! I thoroughly enjoyed this book. For me, it's hard to find characters to relate to, but that was not the case with Jane and Noah. I was able to connect and resonate with parts of both characters. Pick up this book and read it. You won't regret it!
April 16, 2025
Thank you Book Sirens for the ARC to review!
This makes me want a beach vacation right now- I loved the summer, beach, tropical vibe of this book. The sweet and silly banter between the main characters was fun and realistic.
Second chance romance, enemies to lovers tropes for those that are curious! Overall I enjoyed this book- at times ai thought it drug on a bit, but it was such a sweet love story!
@the_redheadreads on IG
This makes me want a beach vacation right now- I loved the summer, beach, tropical vibe of this book. The sweet and silly banter between the main characters was fun and realistic.
Second chance romance, enemies to lovers tropes for those that are curious! Overall I enjoyed this book- at times ai thought it drug on a bit, but it was such a sweet love story!
@the_redheadreads on IG
March 12, 2025
I really liked this book, I rounded up to 4 stars. The author has a really good flow to her storytelling, and it was a quick read. The ending did seem kind of rushed, but not in such a way that took away from the overall story. I’ll read more from this author. Great debut!
March 24, 2025
Such a fun, light-hearted romance with some spice and beachy vibes! The characters are witty and charming. I just wanted to slide right into this story and enjoy myself for a long vacation.
March 25, 2025
ARC Review
This was such a fun read!
Get ready to laugh, tear up a little, fall in love with main and side characters, and take a trip to Hawaii!!!!
Thank you BookSirens
This was such a fun read!
Get ready to laugh, tear up a little, fall in love with main and side characters, and take a trip to Hawaii!!!!
Thank you BookSirens
March 29, 2025
Fun and witty. It was great that the characters were easily relatable.
I enjoyed the back and forth between Jane and Noah.
This was a nice, sweet and fun read. And im now dying for a brownie.
I receive a free arc copy of this and this is my honest opinion.
I enjoyed the back and forth between Jane and Noah.
This was a nice, sweet and fun read. And im now dying for a brownie.
I receive a free arc copy of this and this is my honest opinion.
April 12, 2025
Thank you for the ARC, BookSirens and Emma Norman!
I had to get this book the moment I read the premise on the mail. It was something I needed— a light, fun, and heartwarming read, yet also a book I didn’t know I would need. It’s timely and has resonated in ways I can’t put into words. 💖
P.S.
This book had me craving for a brownie 🥹
-4.5⭐️
I had to get this book the moment I read the premise on the mail. It was something I needed— a light, fun, and heartwarming read, yet also a book I didn’t know I would need. It’s timely and has resonated in ways I can’t put into words. 💖
P.S.
This book had me craving for a brownie 🥹
-4.5⭐️
March 18, 2025
A slow burn, second chance romance with a perfectionist FMC and an MMC who fell first.
Jane and Noah met as teenagers competing in debate tournaments, and it’s safe to say that Noah fell for her almost immediately. A misunderstanding separates them and 14 years later they’re reunited by chance in Hawaii, where they’ve been sent by different branches of the same law firm to meet a new client. The client is called away, leaving Jane and Noah in a luxury resort for ten days with nothing to do but relax. As they spend time together it becomes clear that there are lots of unresolved feelings, and Jane is forced to confront her controlling tendencies.
Jane is a perfectionist who is prone to panic attacks. Her need for control is reflective of her belief that she must be perfect in order to be loved, a belief stemming from her childhood. She is both infuriating and sympathetic, her flaws are written in a way that allows us to understand why she is the way she is, an understanding that's enhanced by the dual timeline employed in the telling of this story. Jane’s anxiety is palpable, expressed through interactions with her friends and her mother, and as the story progresses, we see her able to deal with this more and more.
Noah is charming, he's smart, and he's funny. His greatest joy seems to be debating any topic with Jane, and he's shown to be a genuine, thoughtful character. He and Jane are so suited to each other that their relationship could only exist in a rom com, but nonetheless Noah and his capacity to understand and support Jane had me smiling like an idiot throughout.
Emma Norman's writing was superb, it flowed flawlessly, and the supporting characters were funny and served a purpose, none of them were inserted into the story for the sake of it. It was easy to get lost in this book, a sweet rom com with witty banter, relatable characters and realistic depictions of anxiety. It is also an exploration of how our past informs our present and the ways in which our relationships, romantic or otherwise, impact our lives. Alternately funny and serious, this is a great book for any romance reader to enjoy.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Jane and Noah met as teenagers competing in debate tournaments, and it’s safe to say that Noah fell for her almost immediately. A misunderstanding separates them and 14 years later they’re reunited by chance in Hawaii, where they’ve been sent by different branches of the same law firm to meet a new client. The client is called away, leaving Jane and Noah in a luxury resort for ten days with nothing to do but relax. As they spend time together it becomes clear that there are lots of unresolved feelings, and Jane is forced to confront her controlling tendencies.
Jane is a perfectionist who is prone to panic attacks. Her need for control is reflective of her belief that she must be perfect in order to be loved, a belief stemming from her childhood. She is both infuriating and sympathetic, her flaws are written in a way that allows us to understand why she is the way she is, an understanding that's enhanced by the dual timeline employed in the telling of this story. Jane’s anxiety is palpable, expressed through interactions with her friends and her mother, and as the story progresses, we see her able to deal with this more and more.
Noah is charming, he's smart, and he's funny. His greatest joy seems to be debating any topic with Jane, and he's shown to be a genuine, thoughtful character. He and Jane are so suited to each other that their relationship could only exist in a rom com, but nonetheless Noah and his capacity to understand and support Jane had me smiling like an idiot throughout.
Emma Norman's writing was superb, it flowed flawlessly, and the supporting characters were funny and served a purpose, none of them were inserted into the story for the sake of it. It was easy to get lost in this book, a sweet rom com with witty banter, relatable characters and realistic depictions of anxiety. It is also an exploration of how our past informs our present and the ways in which our relationships, romantic or otherwise, impact our lives. Alternately funny and serious, this is a great book for any romance reader to enjoy.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 14, 2025
This is the book to pick up when you are in the middle of a dragging winter and the sweet dreams of the tropics are the only thing keeping the sparkle of warm weather alive.
🌋 Tropical Island, Hawaii Edition 🌺
🏝️ Luxury Vacation
🤷♀️ Teenage Rivals Grown Up to be lawyers 👩⚖️
I can’t help but compare this book to Megan Quinn’s Bridesmaid for Hire and Christina Hannah’s The Honeymooners. We have a career-driven FMC living in a Hawaii dream turned nightmare due to the forced proximity of a man who “ruined her life” (i.e., bruised her ego, and she is yet to recover). I really appreciated the complexity of the emotional experience in this one. It felt more evolved and healthy than other romance novels I have read. Both of the characters showed so much growth.
What worked for me:
I liked Jane as the FMC. She was complex, dealing with a lot while throwing herself at her goals when those around her let her down. She goes to therapy! She was still learning and fixing things, a work in progress.
Riley was a great counterpart to her, I found him grounded and steady. He had grown so much and handled everything with emotional maturity.
Their romance was cute and thoughtful, displaying lots of growth. A trope I didn't know I loved?
She drinks, and he's sober 🍹
What didn’t work for me:
These are lawyers on an unplanned vacation for 10 days. Who is paying for this? I can’t believe the luxury hotel owner would award two random lawyers at this new law firm a random vacation for no reason.
The luxury bit fell short for me. I want to be WOWED. I wanted to hear about the amazing food, the incredible drinks, and how nice the hotel was. This fell very short on that front for me.
Overall, it was a great beach read, and the emotional maturity was the cherry on top for me. I would definitely read it again, and I would purchase a copy for a friend!
Thank you to BookSirens and Emma Norman for an advanced copy of this book! Excited to see more work from this debut author.
🌋 Tropical Island, Hawaii Edition 🌺
🏝️ Luxury Vacation
🤷♀️ Teenage Rivals Grown Up to be lawyers 👩⚖️
I can’t help but compare this book to Megan Quinn’s Bridesmaid for Hire and Christina Hannah’s The Honeymooners. We have a career-driven FMC living in a Hawaii dream turned nightmare due to the forced proximity of a man who “ruined her life” (i.e., bruised her ego, and she is yet to recover). I really appreciated the complexity of the emotional experience in this one. It felt more evolved and healthy than other romance novels I have read. Both of the characters showed so much growth.
What worked for me:
I liked Jane as the FMC. She was complex, dealing with a lot while throwing herself at her goals when those around her let her down. She goes to therapy! She was still learning and fixing things, a work in progress.
Riley was a great counterpart to her, I found him grounded and steady. He had grown so much and handled everything with emotional maturity.
Their romance was cute and thoughtful, displaying lots of growth. A trope I didn't know I loved?
She drinks, and he's sober 🍹
What didn’t work for me:
These are lawyers on an unplanned vacation for 10 days. Who is paying for this? I can’t believe the luxury hotel owner would award two random lawyers at this new law firm a random vacation for no reason.
The luxury bit fell short for me. I want to be WOWED. I wanted to hear about the amazing food, the incredible drinks, and how nice the hotel was. This fell very short on that front for me.
Overall, it was a great beach read, and the emotional maturity was the cherry on top for me. I would definitely read it again, and I would purchase a copy for a friend!
Thank you to BookSirens and Emma Norman for an advanced copy of this book! Excited to see more work from this debut author.
April 27, 2025
Thank you to BookSirens and the author for granting my request to read this e-ARC and provide my honest opinions.
Who doesn’t love a good rivals-to-lovers story? Told over dual timelines, we follow Jane and Noah—college sweethearts whose brief fling ended with heartbreak. Now, years later, can Jane risk opening her heart to Noah again?
The thing about rivals-to-lovers is they’ve often always loved each other—they’re just a little shortsighted.
One thing I really didn't enjoy was the focus kept shifting from the love story to our FMC, who was struggling with being a perfectionist, and what happened between our main characters when they were kids, which sometimes pulled me out of the story.
Overall, it was really satisfying to watch Jane and Noah choose themselves—and each other—again. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Who doesn’t love a good rivals-to-lovers story? Told over dual timelines, we follow Jane and Noah—college sweethearts whose brief fling ended with heartbreak. Now, years later, can Jane risk opening her heart to Noah again?
The thing about rivals-to-lovers is they’ve often always loved each other—they’re just a little shortsighted.
One thing I really didn't enjoy was the focus kept shifting from the love story to our FMC, who was struggling with being a perfectionist, and what happened between our main characters when they were kids, which sometimes pulled me out of the story.
Overall, it was really satisfying to watch Jane and Noah choose themselves—and each other—again. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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