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Blind Date with a Book
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Expected 10 Apr 26Molly Bramble thought running a bookshop on a narrowboat would be a dream come true – until her biggest challenge turned out to be her new neighbour, Jack, a former city trader with a penchant for crashing boats and hearts.
When a "Blind Date with a Book" night goes awry, Molly finds herself reluctantly paired with Jack and his lack of literary knowledge. Will their rivalry over mooring fees and a missing sign lead to a sinking ship – or a love story with a plot twist?
As Molly and Jack navigate the choppy waters of romance, sabotage, and the occasional dog rescue, will their blossoming romance prove that sometimes the best stories are the ones we never see coming?
When a "Blind Date with a Book" night goes awry, Molly finds herself reluctantly paired with Jack and his lack of literary knowledge. Will their rivalry over mooring fees and a missing sign lead to a sinking ship – or a love story with a plot twist?
As Molly and Jack navigate the choppy waters of romance, sabotage, and the occasional dog rescue, will their blossoming romance prove that sometimes the best stories are the ones we never see coming?
- GenresRomance
350 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication April 10, 2026
71 people want to read
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March 16, 2026What a joy. I loved this clever Pride and Prejudice retelling. It swept me away and kept me smiling as I watched the journey of Molly and Jack from friends to lovers. Pure joy.
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February 27, 2026RTC
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Molly Got on My Nerves So Bad I Wanted to Toss My Kindle Over the Roof!
First things first, I think the "Blind Date with a Book" idea was genius and a great premise for this story. I wouldn’t be surprised if booksellers, all over, adopted this strategy in some kind of way. HEY BOOKSELLERS, READ THIS BOOK! There are lots of great sales and marketing tactics in here! 💰💸
Now, in other news, Molly Bramble is probably the most immature, jump-to-conclusions, juvenile, annoying, aggravating, simple-minded, and naive FMC that I have ever had the displeasure of meeting in a book. Full stop! 😳
Although, she was rather resourceful, innovative, and relentless in her pursuit to become a successful entrepreneur. I, too, am self-employed and she definitely inspired me to keep going when times are tough! But damn, she was annoying! At one point I started to think, before the 60% mark, "Molly just needs to get laid, plain and simple. She needs a big one right up the middle, front and back, and a shuddering orgasmic release. The poor lass." SMH. 🤭
Shout out to Nana Rose for keeping me entertained. Without her cameos throughout the book, I don't know if I would have finished it so quickly. I looked forward to her appearances and wanted more...
...AND less of Liam. But the author was spot on with how she portrayed what people will do for clout. We must not lose hope for humanity because even the worst of the worst deserve a second or third chance. Once you read the book, you'll know exactly what I'm talking about. 🌎✌️
On another note, this was a closed-door romance with no spice... more so fiction with a dash of romance which was fine with me, no matter.
The pacing was slow and while this book was not my cup of tea, I am open to reading another title on the author’s backlist. Kat and Leo have their own story in Read Between the Lines, so I'll be checking that one out in the future.
The Aftermath 🌷:
This book gets 3 stars from me not because I enjoyed the story or liked it all that much, but because Emily Kerr did an excellent job evoking emotions and feelings in me that lingered with every page I turned. Molly got on my nerves so bad that I wanted to toss my Kindle over the roof of my house, two stories by the way, let gravity shatter it to pieces after hitting the pavement, then will a garbage truck to run over the damn thing and finish it off! 🙌
I wonder if the author knew this story would grind so badly on the nerves of innocent people. Shameful Emily Kerr! Shameful! 🤔😉
Thank you to NetGalley, One More Chapter (HarperCollins), and Emily Kerr for the e-ARC in exchange for my honest review.
First things first, I think the "Blind Date with a Book" idea was genius and a great premise for this story. I wouldn’t be surprised if booksellers, all over, adopted this strategy in some kind of way. HEY BOOKSELLERS, READ THIS BOOK! There are lots of great sales and marketing tactics in here! 💰💸
Now, in other news, Molly Bramble is probably the most immature, jump-to-conclusions, juvenile, annoying, aggravating, simple-minded, and naive FMC that I have ever had the displeasure of meeting in a book. Full stop! 😳
Although, she was rather resourceful, innovative, and relentless in her pursuit to become a successful entrepreneur. I, too, am self-employed and she definitely inspired me to keep going when times are tough! But damn, she was annoying! At one point I started to think, before the 60% mark, "Molly just needs to get laid, plain and simple. She needs a big one right up the middle, front and back, and a shuddering orgasmic release. The poor lass." SMH. 🤭
Shout out to Nana Rose for keeping me entertained. Without her cameos throughout the book, I don't know if I would have finished it so quickly. I looked forward to her appearances and wanted more...
...AND less of Liam. But the author was spot on with how she portrayed what people will do for clout. We must not lose hope for humanity because even the worst of the worst deserve a second or third chance. Once you read the book, you'll know exactly what I'm talking about. 🌎✌️
On another note, this was a closed-door romance with no spice... more so fiction with a dash of romance which was fine with me, no matter.
The pacing was slow and while this book was not my cup of tea, I am open to reading another title on the author’s backlist. Kat and Leo have their own story in Read Between the Lines, so I'll be checking that one out in the future.
The Aftermath 🌷:
This book gets 3 stars from me not because I enjoyed the story or liked it all that much, but because Emily Kerr did an excellent job evoking emotions and feelings in me that lingered with every page I turned. Molly got on my nerves so bad that I wanted to toss my Kindle over the roof of my house, two stories by the way, let gravity shatter it to pieces after hitting the pavement, then will a garbage truck to run over the damn thing and finish it off! 🙌
I wonder if the author knew this story would grind so badly on the nerves of innocent people. Shameful Emily Kerr! Shameful! 🤔😉
Thank you to NetGalley, One More Chapter (HarperCollins), and Emily Kerr for the e-ARC in exchange for my honest review.
March 12, 2026
Blind Date with a Book
by Emily Kerr
Molly’s Oxford Bookship is drowning in debt. She had hoped business would improve over the past year, but instead she keeps receiving overdue notices. To make matters worse, the boat association has increased its fees, and if Molly can’t come up with the money, she’ll lose the mooring spot her grandmother once held when she owned the narrowboat.
Desperate for a way to attract customers, Molly comes up with a creative idea: a “Blind Date with a Book” event. Just like how she helps others pick books, she plans for local singles to each choose a wrapped book and then meet the person who selected the matching one. It’s meant to be fun, unique, and hopefully bring new attention to her struggling bookshop.
Things take an unexpected turn when Molly ends up paired with a snarky and judgmental man named Jack. Soon she discovers that Jack is not only her match—he’s also her new neighbor, opening a wine bar nearby. As Molly’s problems begin piling up and things around her start going wrong, she can’t help but wonder if some of it might be intentional. Is Jack really who she thinks he is? And will Molly be able to save her beloved bookshop before it’s too late?
I really enjoyed Blind Date with a Book. It was fun, cozy, and had just enough mystery to keep me turning the pages. The idea of a bookshop on a boat is charming, and the “blind date with a book” concept made the story even more enjoyable. I found myself easily drawn into Molly’s world and rooting for her along the way.
I gave Blind Date with a Book 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
by Emily Kerr
Molly’s Oxford Bookship is drowning in debt. She had hoped business would improve over the past year, but instead she keeps receiving overdue notices. To make matters worse, the boat association has increased its fees, and if Molly can’t come up with the money, she’ll lose the mooring spot her grandmother once held when she owned the narrowboat.
Desperate for a way to attract customers, Molly comes up with a creative idea: a “Blind Date with a Book” event. Just like how she helps others pick books, she plans for local singles to each choose a wrapped book and then meet the person who selected the matching one. It’s meant to be fun, unique, and hopefully bring new attention to her struggling bookshop.
Things take an unexpected turn when Molly ends up paired with a snarky and judgmental man named Jack. Soon she discovers that Jack is not only her match—he’s also her new neighbor, opening a wine bar nearby. As Molly’s problems begin piling up and things around her start going wrong, she can’t help but wonder if some of it might be intentional. Is Jack really who she thinks he is? And will Molly be able to save her beloved bookshop before it’s too late?
I really enjoyed Blind Date with a Book. It was fun, cozy, and had just enough mystery to keep me turning the pages. The idea of a bookshop on a boat is charming, and the “blind date with a book” concept made the story even more enjoyable. I found myself easily drawn into Molly’s world and rooting for her along the way.
I gave Blind Date with a Book 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I really love the premise of this book the main character Molly Bramble has a bookstore on water the Oxford Bookship. But all threatens to go wrong (or right) when her new neighbour arrives and they rival over moorings and signs. Full of sabotage and love.
I loved this book. It was cute and the characters were so good. They had wit and personality, but most important they had good sides and bad sides. The difference is they were able to talk about it and solve their problems eventually together. I really liked Jack as a character he had a lot of growth and he really added to the story. My personal favourite though is obviously Hilda the dog.
The plot was well written, it had a lot of intrigue and stakes. Although not too high a stakes to still make it a nice and cosy read. It was wel developed and most of the time I found it well paced. Something in between medium and fast paced, but it was the perfect sweet spot. One thing I did find which made me rate this slightly lower than I would have liked is the fact that the romance felt really rushed towards the end. Don't get me wrong it was really nice and sweet, you just didn't really get to see much of it. That is my only minus point to this book.
All in all I really love this book and would definitely recommend it. It is sweet and cosy and perfect for all book lovers. (maybe something for your spring TBR) Also last minute, just one moment for the beautiful cover of this book. I can't wait to see what else Emily Kerr will write to keep us entertained.
I loved this book. It was cute and the characters were so good. They had wit and personality, but most important they had good sides and bad sides. The difference is they were able to talk about it and solve their problems eventually together. I really liked Jack as a character he had a lot of growth and he really added to the story. My personal favourite though is obviously Hilda the dog.
The plot was well written, it had a lot of intrigue and stakes. Although not too high a stakes to still make it a nice and cosy read. It was wel developed and most of the time I found it well paced. Something in between medium and fast paced, but it was the perfect sweet spot. One thing I did find which made me rate this slightly lower than I would have liked is the fact that the romance felt really rushed towards the end. Don't get me wrong it was really nice and sweet, you just didn't really get to see much of it. That is my only minus point to this book.
All in all I really love this book and would definitely recommend it. It is sweet and cosy and perfect for all book lovers. (maybe something for your spring TBR) Also last minute, just one moment for the beautiful cover of this book. I can't wait to see what else Emily Kerr will write to keep us entertained.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A Pride and Prejudice retelling about the owner of a bookshop boat in Oxford and her efforts to ensure its financial sustainability. The “bookship” is a really lovely setting for book lovers, and there are a lot of sweet, cosy aspects to this book — the adorable but oversized rescue dog and the grandma character in particular. Also the “matchmaking” idea via books is very smart, and should be a real thing.
Despite this book being based on a similar narrative structure to one of the greatest love stories of all time, there actually isn’t much romance in this book (and there’s also no spice). The meet cute involves discussing Pride and Prejudice, and there is also a reference to Bridget Jones in the book too, just to make it clear. Maybe it would be better to think of this book as a story about a bookshop owner, who also happens to meet a man who has some Mr Darcy-like qualities, and there is also a Mr Wickham character, and a letter is exchanged.
I personally found the FMC really unlikeable, which made the book less enjoyable for me. I get that she’s meant to be prejudiced, strong-willed and opinionated, but I think she comes across as unnecessarily hostile and rude because there is not really any playful banter, humour, wit etc. between her and the MMC initially.
I would recommend this book if you like cosy books about bookshops and dogs, with minimal romance and no spice.
Thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollinsUK for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Despite this book being based on a similar narrative structure to one of the greatest love stories of all time, there actually isn’t much romance in this book (and there’s also no spice). The meet cute involves discussing Pride and Prejudice, and there is also a reference to Bridget Jones in the book too, just to make it clear. Maybe it would be better to think of this book as a story about a bookshop owner, who also happens to meet a man who has some Mr Darcy-like qualities, and there is also a Mr Wickham character, and a letter is exchanged.
I personally found the FMC really unlikeable, which made the book less enjoyable for me. I get that she’s meant to be prejudiced, strong-willed and opinionated, but I think she comes across as unnecessarily hostile and rude because there is not really any playful banter, humour, wit etc. between her and the MMC initially.
I would recommend this book if you like cosy books about bookshops and dogs, with minimal romance and no spice.
Thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollinsUK for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
🩷 Blurb-
Molly Bramble thought running a bookshop on a narrowboat would be a dream come true – until her biggest challenge turned out to be her new neighbour, Jack, a former city trader with a penchant for crashing boats and hearts.
When a "Blind Date with a Book" night goes awry, Molly finds herself reluctantly paired with Jack and his lack of literary knowledge. Will their rivalry over mooring fees and a missing sign lead to a sinking ship – or a love story with a plot twist?
As Molly and Jack navigate the choppy waters of romance, sabotage, and the occasional dog rescue, will their blossoming romance prove that sometimes the best stories are the ones we never see coming.
🩵 Review -
This was such a lovely story. I was hooked from the very first page and I kept reading until the end as I wanted to know if Molly had the happy ending that she deserved. I loved the idea of Molly having a bookshop on a boat and I wanted her to do well with it. It made for a cute and entertaining read. I loved the characters and the place settings in the story. I highly recommend it and I look forward to reading more by the author.
💝 Thank you to One More Chapter, the author Emily Kerr and Netgalley for my arc ebook copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Molly Bramble thought running a bookshop on a narrowboat would be a dream come true – until her biggest challenge turned out to be her new neighbour, Jack, a former city trader with a penchant for crashing boats and hearts.
When a "Blind Date with a Book" night goes awry, Molly finds herself reluctantly paired with Jack and his lack of literary knowledge. Will their rivalry over mooring fees and a missing sign lead to a sinking ship – or a love story with a plot twist?
As Molly and Jack navigate the choppy waters of romance, sabotage, and the occasional dog rescue, will their blossoming romance prove that sometimes the best stories are the ones we never see coming.
🩵 Review -
This was such a lovely story. I was hooked from the very first page and I kept reading until the end as I wanted to know if Molly had the happy ending that she deserved. I loved the idea of Molly having a bookshop on a boat and I wanted her to do well with it. It made for a cute and entertaining read. I loved the characters and the place settings in the story. I highly recommend it and I look forward to reading more by the author.
💝 Thank you to One More Chapter, the author Emily Kerr and Netgalley for my arc ebook copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Molly Bramble thinks running a cozy bookshop on her narrowboat will be a dream until her frustrating new neighbor Jack, a clumsy former city trader, keeps stirring up trouble. After a chaotic “Blind Date with a Book” event forces them together, their rivalry over mooring fees and mishaps slowly turns into unexpected chemistry. As they navigate small-town drama, sabotage, and a few dog rescues, Molly and Jack discover that the best love stories are often the ones you never planned.
I really wanted to like this book, I LOVED the premise but I had a hard time connecting to the main character. I was hoping that Molly would grow one me, but I found her to be a bit mean. Even after Jack’s initial apology she continued to make judgements based on one interaction and the opinion of someone she did not know well. I understand her being unlikeable in the beginning, but her attitude and straight rudeness was apparent through a majority of the book which made it hard for me to root for her. Honestly, I was rooting for Jack to be with anyone else because of how mean she was.
I know it was meant to be a Pride and Prejudice retelling, but again Molly was a bit much. I did love Nana Rose and Hilda. They brought me a lot of joy and were good comic reliefs.
I really wanted to like this book, I LOVED the premise but I had a hard time connecting to the main character. I was hoping that Molly would grow one me, but I found her to be a bit mean. Even after Jack’s initial apology she continued to make judgements based on one interaction and the opinion of someone she did not know well. I understand her being unlikeable in the beginning, but her attitude and straight rudeness was apparent through a majority of the book which made it hard for me to root for her. Honestly, I was rooting for Jack to be with anyone else because of how mean she was.
I know it was meant to be a Pride and Prejudice retelling, but again Molly was a bit much. I did love Nana Rose and Hilda. They brought me a lot of joy and were good comic reliefs.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Rivals-to-friends-to-lovers with a little bit of mystery, this was a great read! Molly and Jack have a run in, or meet-cute, at her blind date with a book event that doesn't go so well....only to be made worse when she realizes he is her new neighbour on the canal and also opening a business on his boat. She is determined that he will ruin everything for her and does nothing to hide her ill feelings for Jack. Mysterious things start happening to and on her boat and at first she blames Jack, only to realize that maybe something else is going on. She is so focused on making the money she needs for the new mooring fees and doesn't want anything to stand in the way of that. She ends up putting her trust and friendship in the wrong person but finds out the real truth before too much more can happen to her "bookship".
(I received a complimentary ecopy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Thank you Netgalley, One More Chapter and Emily Kerr)
(I received a complimentary ecopy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Thank you Netgalley, One More Chapter and Emily Kerr)
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3.5 stars
I'm fascinated with narrowboats, so a romance set along the Oxford canals with a 'bookship' and a 'wine barge'? Count me in. This book has obvious Pride and Prejudice inspiration (absolutely loved the remaking of Wickham as an influencer!). Molly and Jack have the worst first impression of each other, leading Molly to think poorly about Jack at every turn, and take everything he says in the worst way.
While I am a big fan of difficult and prickly heroines, at times Molly was downright mean to Jack for no real reason. To be fair the author allows us into her thoughts where she regretted her words, however it really started to drag the pace as it got repetitive. It was obvious Jack liked her long before she started to realise her feelings, so I really needed her to evolve for me to fully buy his feelings for her. That said, I loved that she was resourceful, doing everything she could to literally keep her business afloat. However, at times I felt like that plot fell by the weyside sometimes and it loss the sense of urgency.
A solid romance. I can't wait for the next book featuring Molly's best friend.
I'm fascinated with narrowboats, so a romance set along the Oxford canals with a 'bookship' and a 'wine barge'? Count me in. This book has obvious Pride and Prejudice inspiration (absolutely loved the remaking of Wickham as an influencer!). Molly and Jack have the worst first impression of each other, leading Molly to think poorly about Jack at every turn, and take everything he says in the worst way.
While I am a big fan of difficult and prickly heroines, at times Molly was downright mean to Jack for no real reason. To be fair the author allows us into her thoughts where she regretted her words, however it really started to drag the pace as it got repetitive. It was obvious Jack liked her long before she started to realise her feelings, so I really needed her to evolve for me to fully buy his feelings for her. That said, I loved that she was resourceful, doing everything she could to literally keep her business afloat. However, at times I felt like that plot fell by the weyside sometimes and it loss the sense of urgency.
A solid romance. I can't wait for the next book featuring Molly's best friend.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Molly, una joven que llega a Oxford buscando empezar de nuevo después de una decepción que cambió sus planes de vida. Sin muchas expectativas y tratando de reconstruir su confianza, decide cumplir su sueño de tener una librería flotante poco convencional donde los libros se venden envueltos, dejando que el destino decida qué historia leer.
Mientras aprende a adaptarse a su nuevo entorno y a las personas que forman parte del barco, Molly comienza a cuestionar sus propias decisiones y la manera en que ha protegido su corazón. Un encuentro inesperado despierta emociones que creía superadas y la obliga a enfrentar aquello que ha estado evitando. En medio de recomendaciones literarias, segundas oportunidades y conversaciones sinceras, Molly descubre que algunas historias no llegan cuando una las busca, sino cuando está lista para vivirlas.
Gracias NetGalley por el ARC.
Mientras aprende a adaptarse a su nuevo entorno y a las personas que forman parte del barco, Molly comienza a cuestionar sus propias decisiones y la manera en que ha protegido su corazón. Un encuentro inesperado despierta emociones que creía superadas y la obliga a enfrentar aquello que ha estado evitando. En medio de recomendaciones literarias, segundas oportunidades y conversaciones sinceras, Molly descubre que algunas historias no llegan cuando una las busca, sino cuando está lista para vivirlas.
Gracias NetGalley por el ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you NetGalley, HarperCollins UK, and One More Chapter for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
In Blind Date with a Book, we visit the quaint and lovely narrowboat canals of Oxford with a fiery “bookship” owner facing off against a newcomer and his “wine barge” business. It’s a charming story about a woman (Molly) determined to save her business against any perceivable threat. It’s an interesting exploration of how a wrong impression can color not only your perspective of a person, but also your behavior towards them. We see Molly, at times, ruthlessly berating her new neighbor, Jack, who gives a strong young Colin Firth vibe.
It’s an enjoyable read but I think we can all agree that Hilda, the adorable Irish Wolfhound, steals every scene, as she should.
In Blind Date with a Book, we visit the quaint and lovely narrowboat canals of Oxford with a fiery “bookship” owner facing off against a newcomer and his “wine barge” business. It’s a charming story about a woman (Molly) determined to save her business against any perceivable threat. It’s an interesting exploration of how a wrong impression can color not only your perspective of a person, but also your behavior towards them. We see Molly, at times, ruthlessly berating her new neighbor, Jack, who gives a strong young Colin Firth vibe.
It’s an enjoyable read but I think we can all agree that Hilda, the adorable Irish Wolfhound, steals every scene, as she should.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Adorable slow burn with a hint of mystery!
Molly Bramble is the owner of the Oxford Bookship, a barge moored on the Oxford canal devoted to books. She's lived there happily for the last year, but when the Oxford Boating Association contacts her to let her know that her mooring fees will be going up, she is devastated. Somehow she needs to raise the funds to pay them.
Not only that, but her new (clueless) neighbour Jack is opening his own business. He immediately gets on Molly's nerves with his rude, arrogant behaviour, and as strange things start happening, she suspect he is behind them.
Molly throws her all into promoting her bookshop, with the help of her friends, but all is not as it seems. Molly learns who she can trust and who is REALLY there for her.
Has she got Jack all wrong? Or will he prove her right after all?
Molly Bramble is the owner of the Oxford Bookship, a barge moored on the Oxford canal devoted to books. She's lived there happily for the last year, but when the Oxford Boating Association contacts her to let her know that her mooring fees will be going up, she is devastated. Somehow she needs to raise the funds to pay them.
Not only that, but her new (clueless) neighbour Jack is opening his own business. He immediately gets on Molly's nerves with his rude, arrogant behaviour, and as strange things start happening, she suspect he is behind them.
Molly throws her all into promoting her bookshop, with the help of her friends, but all is not as it seems. Molly learns who she can trust and who is REALLY there for her.
Has she got Jack all wrong? Or will he prove her right after all?
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was cute and a whole journey. I think Molly definitely had some misconceptions and prejudice issues in the beginning and I do love an antagonistic relationship, but I liked it even better when they finally communicated. And I think that Molly definitely had a good redemption from her wrong assumptions. They are a cute couple together and Jack really is a walking green flag. Also, I fear I need Hilda to be my dog, she’s a cutie.
Sure, there was a lot going on that could be conceived as farfetched and I did find it predictable, but it was entertaining and I had a good time reading it.
I’m hoping there might be a Matthias x Flick book in the future? Or maybe one for each of them? Or maybe Eva’s?
Thank you One More Chapter for the ARC!
Sure, there was a lot going on that could be conceived as farfetched and I did find it predictable, but it was entertaining and I had a good time reading it.
I’m hoping there might be a Matthias x Flick book in the future? Or maybe one for each of them? Or maybe Eva’s?
Thank you One More Chapter for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thanks Netgalley for the ARC.
This was a really cute and cozy read. Molly moves to Oxford to start over in a floating bookshop, introducing a fun “blind date with a book” idea to attract customers. The setting was charming and very bookish.
Molly was a bit frustrating at the beginning because of her assumptions about others, but I liked seeing her grow and realize where she was wrong. Her relationship with Jack starts off slightly antagonistic but becomes really sweet once they actually communicate.
Some parts were predictable, but it was still a very enjoyable feel-good story. Also, Hilda the dog completely stole the show. I’d definitely read more books about some of the side characters in the future.
This was a really cute and cozy read. Molly moves to Oxford to start over in a floating bookshop, introducing a fun “blind date with a book” idea to attract customers. The setting was charming and very bookish.
Molly was a bit frustrating at the beginning because of her assumptions about others, but I liked seeing her grow and realize where she was wrong. Her relationship with Jack starts off slightly antagonistic but becomes really sweet once they actually communicate.
Some parts were predictable, but it was still a very enjoyable feel-good story. Also, Hilda the dog completely stole the show. I’d definitely read more books about some of the side characters in the future.
March 12, 2026
★★★3.5 review of Blind date with a book
I was really excited about the premise of Blind Date with a Book, and while it was a quick, somewhat enjoyable read… it just didn’t fully click for me
The story leans heavily on Pride and Prejudice vibes, but I can’t recall Elizabeth Bennet ever being a complete dick… which made it hard to root for Molly. When you genuinely don’t like the main character, it’s tough to get invested in the love story. Her reaction to Jack felt a bit extreme early on, and it took almost ¾ of the book for her to even give him a real chance.
That said, it is an easy, quick read and we can all agree that Hilda, the adorable Irish Wolfhound, absolutely steals every scene
Overall: enjoyable in parts, but predictable, and the writing style + FMC just didn’t work for me
I was really excited about the premise of Blind Date with a Book, and while it was a quick, somewhat enjoyable read… it just didn’t fully click for me
The story leans heavily on Pride and Prejudice vibes, but I can’t recall Elizabeth Bennet ever being a complete dick… which made it hard to root for Molly. When you genuinely don’t like the main character, it’s tough to get invested in the love story. Her reaction to Jack felt a bit extreme early on, and it took almost ¾ of the book for her to even give him a real chance.
That said, it is an easy, quick read and we can all agree that Hilda, the adorable Irish Wolfhound, absolutely steals every scene
Overall: enjoyable in parts, but predictable, and the writing style + FMC just didn’t work for me
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I enjoyed this cute story which was a different and
Interesting premise to take place on boats! I would definitely describe this book as cozy and warm, meaning I had a good vibe and was smiling to myself throughout. And who doesn’t love an Irish wolfhound? I didn’t give it a higher rating because it felt rushed about 3/4 of the way in including really how they fell in love. Maybe if the book was a little longer, she could’ve spread it out a little bit more so it didn’t move so quickly at the end. I would recommend this book to someone else to read, and it was a really cute ride for Molly and Jack!
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review!
Interesting premise to take place on boats! I would definitely describe this book as cozy and warm, meaning I had a good vibe and was smiling to myself throughout. And who doesn’t love an Irish wolfhound? I didn’t give it a higher rating because it felt rushed about 3/4 of the way in including really how they fell in love. Maybe if the book was a little longer, she could’ve spread it out a little bit more so it didn’t move so quickly at the end. I would recommend this book to someone else to read, and it was a really cute ride for Molly and Jack!
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review!
March 13, 2026
Thank you so much to Emily Kerr, One More Chapter and NetGalley for an ARC of Blind Date with a Book. I am so grateful for the opportunity to have read and reviewed this book!
First off, can we take a moment for the beautiful cover on this, I mean wow! Blind Date with a Book takes place in the most dreamy setting, that will have you kicking your feet. A bookshop on a boat?! I think I’d be there everyday. You can feel the towns charm through Kerr’s writing.
This book is a cozy read with a dash of mystery. Hilda, our Irish wolfhound, is arguably my favorite character & added to the books overall charm.
I didn’t feel a super strong romance between Jack and Molly as they spend most the book as enemies. I would have loved to explore their romance a little more!
First off, can we take a moment for the beautiful cover on this, I mean wow! Blind Date with a Book takes place in the most dreamy setting, that will have you kicking your feet. A bookshop on a boat?! I think I’d be there everyday. You can feel the towns charm through Kerr’s writing.
This book is a cozy read with a dash of mystery. Hilda, our Irish wolfhound, is arguably my favorite character & added to the books overall charm.
I didn’t feel a super strong romance between Jack and Molly as they spend most the book as enemies. I would have loved to explore their romance a little more!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Blind Date with a Book by Emily Kerr is an utterly charming read, wrapped in the quaint, cozy magic of the Bookship—a setting so inviting it practically begs readers to step inside and browse the shelves themselves. Kerr beautifully captures the passion behind matching readers with the perfect story, and that love for literature shines through every chapter.
This is a “perfect‑in‑the‑moment” kind of read: warm, heartfelt, and brimming with genuine affection for books and the people who treasure them. The sweet atmosphere and genuine character connections make it easy to fall in love with both the story and the delightful little bookshop at its center. Can I come browse the shelves in real life???
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is a “perfect‑in‑the‑moment” kind of read: warm, heartfelt, and brimming with genuine affection for books and the people who treasure them. The sweet atmosphere and genuine character connections make it easy to fall in love with both the story and the delightful little bookshop at its center. Can I come browse the shelves in real life???
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
March 4, 2026
This was a lovely feel good read. Molly and new dog Hilda live/work on a narrow boat, it’s a lovely bookshop, but when she has her mooring fees to pay for, she needs t9 try something. Along comes blind date with a book, a great idea to draw the crowds and make some money. Jack has just moved in next door, after meeting up at the bookshop date night. Will love blossom? I loved it, great characters, great writing and most of all the narrowboat bookshop sounds ideal. I like how this author writes as it’s fun, happy and most of all engaging. A brilliant 5 star read. Thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for a copy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3.75 stars
The writing is Ok but I wasn't very impressed with the heroine...all 6 foot of her. She spent 65% of the book being unpleasant to the hero.
I got that it was a pastiche of Pride and Prejudice but I felt her attitudes and actions were just bitchy. So Liam is the Wickham character brought forward to the 21st Century as an influence and Flick perhaps Jane or a rehabilitated Lydia?. Does that make Nana Aunt Gardiner?
Not sure this book would lead me onto looking for more of this authors work. Though perhaps that's unfair as contemporary is not my usual genre.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own
The writing is Ok but I wasn't very impressed with the heroine...all 6 foot of her. She spent 65% of the book being unpleasant to the hero.
I got that it was a pastiche of Pride and Prejudice but I felt her attitudes and actions were just bitchy. So Liam is the Wickham character brought forward to the 21st Century as an influence and Flick perhaps Jane or a rehabilitated Lydia?. Does that make Nana Aunt Gardiner?
Not sure this book would lead me onto looking for more of this authors work. Though perhaps that's unfair as contemporary is not my usual genre.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
When can I run away to Oxford to go book shopping on a canal boat. I love canal boats and books, so this was a winner from me, but then you throw in the Jericho wine barge to it, well that just settled the deal even if Molly has her concerns my girl Hilda had the right idea, and I always say if the dog likes them, then they are a decent sort, as they always know. Let yourself while away a couple of hours enjoying the gentle sway on the water with a book and a wine, and you have the perfect setting, just like with this you have the perfect book.
March 16, 2026
I loved Read Between The Lines by Emily Kerr so I was very excited to get an advance copy of her new book, Blind Date With A Book. Molly (FMC) has a bookstore on the water in Oxford which was a cute concept. I would love this in real life. Jack (MMC) is not a reader and is opening up a wine bar in the boat next to hers. The reason I gave this 3 stars is I found Molly to be annoying. However this book was beautifully written and is a cozy read.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC. Opinions are my own.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC. Opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you very much to NetGalley and HarperCollins for offering me this ARC in advance! I will always love a Jane Austen retelling, especially Pride and Prejudice! The setting was lovely, and I really want to visit the Oxford Bookship. The characters were interesting, I adored Hilda the dog and Nana Rose, and was rooting for Molly, but despite being intrigued by the premise, I could not completely dedicate myself to the narrative. It is a good romance, but I did not click with it as I thought I would. Still, there were some elements that I enjoyed, so I am grateful to have received this!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3.5 stars
Blind Date With a Book by Emily Kerr was such a cute, fun read!
It did drag a bit for me around the 30%–60% mark still enjoyable, just a little slow and I could definitely see where the story was heading pretty early on.
That said, I really liked Molly and Jack. Molly leaned a little too hard into the “enemy” part of the enemies to lovers trope for me, but their dynamic was still fun to read. And Hilda the pup? Absolute star of the show
I also loved that this was a closed-door romance ut fit the story really well and made it an easy, cozy read.
Blind Date With a Book by Emily Kerr was such a cute, fun read!
It did drag a bit for me around the 30%–60% mark still enjoyable, just a little slow and I could definitely see where the story was heading pretty early on.
That said, I really liked Molly and Jack. Molly leaned a little too hard into the “enemy” part of the enemies to lovers trope for me, but their dynamic was still fun to read. And Hilda the pup? Absolute star of the show
I also loved that this was a closed-door romance ut fit the story really well and made it an easy, cozy read.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was a lovely easy read perfect for any book lover. It is a Pride and Prejudice retelling but not like one I had read before. I enjoyed the differences in the story. Instead of reading the same story over and over again, it had a fun and unique spin to it. Emily’s books are all such fun reads and she has a knack for immersing you into the setting of the story.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC copy of this book.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC copy of this book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is a cute, cozy, slice of life story. I loved the sweet, handmade aesthetics of the boat. It's very much an ode to book lovers and reading vibes with Pride and Prejudice inspirations. Molly, a bookstore owner, is trying to save her shop from a competitor that she may have slightly demonized in her head. Despite her somewhat frustrating character setup, the growth arc made her more likable as the story progressed. Overall, this was an adorable read.
3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you NetGalley, HarperCollins UK, and One More Chapter for the advance copy of the book in exchange of my honest opnion.
This was a great example of an enemies to lovers story. From the begin, they did not communicate and created a competition. This is simply due to the famous " Don't judge a book by it's cover"
The story development is cute and entertain. It keeps you wanting to go back to the very cozy feeling of the river boat community.
This was a great example of an enemies to lovers story. From the begin, they did not communicate and created a competition. This is simply due to the famous " Don't judge a book by it's cover"
The story development is cute and entertain. It keeps you wanting to go back to the very cozy feeling of the river boat community.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
If you are looking for an enemies to lovers which borders on friendship as well, then this book is for you. It is a charming love story that involves areas of self-confidence, money troubles and trust issues. I loved this book - it was such an easy read especially if you want to get back into reading.
Thank you to net galley, Emily Kerr and Harper Collins, One More Chapter for allowing me to receive an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to net galley, Emily Kerr and Harper Collins, One More Chapter for allowing me to receive an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was such a cute read and a much needed palette cleanser. It’s the kind of book that makes you feel good but also has enough suspense to keep you gripped. This had tropes of enemies to lovers, forced proximity and rivals. I also have to say I’m obsessed with Hilda and she definitely helped improve the book. I give this book a 4 out of 5 stars.
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