Scan barcode
jess_97xo's review against another edition
3.75
The Perfect Rom-Com by Melissa Ferguson đŠˇ
Bryony Page is an aspiring author who attends her first writers conference in the hopes of her manuscript being snatched by an agent, Jack Sterling, and her dreams coming too. In an effort to impress the agent there, she agrees to make corrections to another authors work, which leads to her becoming a ghost writer for the infamous yet intolerable Amelia Benedict, a popular rom-com novelist. Bryony is also doing everything she can to raise awareness of The Bridge, her grandmothers organisation, where Bryony teaches ESL full time. She needs to raise awareness as there is great concern The Bridge is not going to financially survive. Jack and Bryony work together to survive the gig of being a ghost writer, but Bryony does not give up on her dream of publishing her own novel and saving The Bridge.
Thankyou to @netgalley and @thomasnelson for offering me the opportunity to read The Perfect Rom-Com before release, which is due for publication on 11th February 2025.
I found this one to be a heart-warming and sweet story about Bryony and her journey to becoming an author, and her romance with Jack. I found the characters likeable, except for Amelia which I think was on purpose - and enjoyed the twists and turns in the plot, particularly at the end which I had not been expecting but found intriguing and enjoyable. The pacing and structure of this book made sense and was easy to follow. I found myself rooting for the main characters and overall found it an enjoyable read â¨
GR/SG: âď¸âď¸âď¸.75
Bryony Page is an aspiring author who attends her first writers conference in the hopes of her manuscript being snatched by an agent, Jack Sterling, and her dreams coming too. In an effort to impress the agent there, she agrees to make corrections to another authors work, which leads to her becoming a ghost writer for the infamous yet intolerable Amelia Benedict, a popular rom-com novelist. Bryony is also doing everything she can to raise awareness of The Bridge, her grandmothers organisation, where Bryony teaches ESL full time. She needs to raise awareness as there is great concern The Bridge is not going to financially survive. Jack and Bryony work together to survive the gig of being a ghost writer, but Bryony does not give up on her dream of publishing her own novel and saving The Bridge.
Thankyou to @netgalley and @thomasnelson for offering me the opportunity to read The Perfect Rom-Com before release, which is due for publication on 11th February 2025.
I found this one to be a heart-warming and sweet story about Bryony and her journey to becoming an author, and her romance with Jack. I found the characters likeable, except for Amelia which I think was on purpose - and enjoyed the twists and turns in the plot, particularly at the end which I had not been expecting but found intriguing and enjoyable. The pacing and structure of this book made sense and was easy to follow. I found myself rooting for the main characters and overall found it an enjoyable read â¨
GR/SG: âď¸âď¸âď¸.75
amybosica's review against another edition
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
3.0
The Perfect Rom-Com is a really cute read with a fun premise and enjoyable banter.
While this story is labeled a romance, I wouldn't really consider the romance to be the star of the show. This story is more about Bryony's journey and self-discovery. If I had to make one complaint, it would be that I would have liked to see more development of the relationship between Bryony and Jack. I loved the way they met and couldn't wait to see things turn around for them. Unfortunately, we didn't get to experience that part, as the story jumped two years into the future after their initial meet.
All in all, a quick read that will be a hit for some and a miss for others.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book via the publisher & NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review*
While this story is labeled a romance, I wouldn't really consider the romance to be the star of the show. This story is more about Bryony's journey and self-discovery. If I had to make one complaint, it would be that I would have liked to see more development of the relationship between Bryony and Jack. I loved the way they met and couldn't wait to see things turn around for them. Unfortunately, we didn't get to experience that part, as the story jumped two years into the future after their initial meet.
All in all, a quick read that will be a hit for some and a miss for others.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book via the publisher & NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review*
vivvklaarbergen's review against another edition
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.75
3,5 â
first of all, thank you to Thomas Nelson Fiction for the Advanced Reader Copy of this book, which I was able to read through netgally!
this was a completely different reading experience than I had expected, perhaps because I went in expecting a romance in the style of the romances I generally read, yet this story took a completely different turn. while the beginning definitely leaned towards the 'trust the process' curve, I quickly found I was hooked--I couldn't stop reading, and this was a general theme throughout the story!
I was constantly on the edge of my seat, waiting for the inevitable ball to drop because I could tell there were secrets in the air! I loved how lowkey the romance aspect of this story was, although as I said I had expected it to be more in the foreground of the story, but Jack really woo'ed me with his subtle touches, knowing glances and perfect knowledge of Byrony. after all, true love is in the little things.
I do think in some ways Byron annoyed me--as somebody who has learned quite a lot about publishing and researched publishing my own work, the fact she didn't know how to categorise her novel, couldn't quite pitch it, had it be way too lengthy for its quasi-genre, only to then confidently waltz into a literary conference... however, the backstory made it make more sense, and this was another aspect of the story that I really enjoyed. in this time of hate and opposition, we need stories like this that remind us about unity and love in the world.
(also the cast is not diverse in that the main characters are not, which I found to be a bit of a shame. however, the message of the story and the subplot features more diversity)
Amelia made me feel as much rage as Byrony felt and I wish we could've seen more of the effect the ending had on her, but I did love the way that the story wrapped up and its overall message!
first of all, thank you to Thomas Nelson Fiction for the Advanced Reader Copy of this book, which I was able to read through netgally!
this was a completely different reading experience than I had expected, perhaps because I went in expecting a romance in the style of the romances I generally read, yet this story took a completely different turn. while the beginning definitely leaned towards the 'trust the process' curve, I quickly found I was hooked--I couldn't stop reading, and this was a general theme throughout the story!
I was constantly on the edge of my seat, waiting for the inevitable ball to drop because I could tell there were secrets in the air! I loved how lowkey the romance aspect of this story was, although as I said I had expected it to be more in the foreground of the story, but Jack really woo'ed me with his subtle touches, knowing glances and perfect knowledge of Byrony. after all, true love is in the little things.
I do think in some ways Byron annoyed me--as somebody who has learned quite a lot about publishing and researched publishing my own work, the fact she didn't know how to categorise her novel, couldn't quite pitch it, had it be way too lengthy for its quasi-genre, only to then confidently waltz into a literary conference... however, the backstory made it make more sense, and this was another aspect of the story that I really enjoyed. in this time of hate and opposition, we need stories like this that remind us about unity and love in the world.
(also the cast is not diverse in that the main characters are not, which I found to be a bit of a shame. however, the message of the story and the subplot features more diversity)
Amelia made me feel as much rage as Byrony felt and I wish we could've seen more of the effect the ending had on her, but I did love the way that the story wrapped up and its overall message!
readquinnread's review against another edition
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
5.0
Adorable! My favorite by this author!!!
cmoro's review against another edition
5.0
This story has the perfect name, as it is hands down the perfect rom-com. (Can I give it more than 5 stars?!)
Melissa Ferguson has a way with words to bring you all the feelings for these characters. The little insights into the worlds we are not a part of like the publishing industry are so thoroughly explained and handled that anyone can understand and follow along, and root for these fake people! I am so happy with the ending, it was the perfect bow on the great journey. I will indeed need to grab a copy of this when it is released!
Do yourself a favor and get this book whenever you can. It needs to be read and shared.
"I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own."
Melissa Ferguson has a way with words to bring you all the feelings for these characters. The little insights into the worlds we are not a part of like the publishing industry are so thoroughly explained and handled that anyone can understand and follow along, and root for these fake people! I am so happy with the ending, it was the perfect bow on the great journey. I will indeed need to grab a copy of this when it is released!
Do yourself a favor and get this book whenever you can. It needs to be read and shared.
"I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own."
bookishbek's review against another edition
4.5
My favorite Melissa Ferguson book to date!
Bryony Page just wants to publish her book and save the community organization that she teaches ESL at and loves. But when literar agent Jack Sterling offers her the opportunity to be the ghostwriter for a popular novelist, her whole world turns upside down.
This book was so cute!! Bryony was relatable and I cheered for her all the way through the book. Her love for her ESL students and her community were so heartwarming.
I also loved Jack and all of the ways that he had her best interests in mind.
The supporting characters were also so enjoyable, from Bryony's students to her sister, to Penny, who was my favorite of all.
This book is for the book lovers - giving insight into publishing and writing and being entirely heartwarming.
The great big gesture at the end of the book just made me grin and mentall kick my feet with happiness.
I loved it and highly recommend if you are looking for a sweet, no spice romance.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Bryony Page just wants to publish her book and save the community organization that she teaches ESL at and loves. But when literar agent Jack Sterling offers her the opportunity to be the ghostwriter for a popular novelist, her whole world turns upside down.
This book was so cute!! Bryony was relatable and I cheered for her all the way through the book. Her love for her ESL students and her community were so heartwarming.
I also loved Jack and all of the ways that he had her best interests in mind.
The supporting characters were also so enjoyable, from Bryony's students to her sister, to Penny, who was my favorite of all.
This book is for the book lovers - giving insight into publishing and writing and being entirely heartwarming.
The great big gesture at the end of the book just made me grin and mentall kick my feet with happiness.
I loved it and highly recommend if you are looking for a sweet, no spice romance.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
msoh's review against another edition
4.0
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for providing this book, with my honest review below.
The Perfect Rom-Com was a fun story that, while not quite the perfect rom-com, was absolutely an entertaining one. In truth the book follows Bryony, an ESL teacher looking to write a book simply to bring attention to her Grandmotherâs ESL school in a bid to keep it open. After putting herself on the line and bombing with agents, her uncharacteristic direct talk hits a chord with Jack, a big shot agent, and she gets a secret job as a ghost writer.
From there we start to build out to a romance between the two while also dealing with Bryonyâs bid to get her own book published (the school is still in peril) and dealing with the prima donna âauthorâ Bryony ghost writes for. I loved that Bryony had found her voice as an author and we focused on her growing confidence in herself before the romance got hot and heavy, so that it could not be attributed to âwoman finds man and finds herself as a resultâ. I also loved the school storyline, especially Bryonyâs care for her quirky students. While the wrap up was clean and neat this story was so sweet and just that much different that I could absolutely get behind it. Iâd recommend you read this, perfect rom-com it may not be, itâs truly far better as a more nuanced story about a woman who starts to believe in herself, hard truths and all, and just so happens to have a good man waiting when she does.
The Perfect Rom-Com was a fun story that, while not quite the perfect rom-com, was absolutely an entertaining one. In truth the book follows Bryony, an ESL teacher looking to write a book simply to bring attention to her Grandmotherâs ESL school in a bid to keep it open. After putting herself on the line and bombing with agents, her uncharacteristic direct talk hits a chord with Jack, a big shot agent, and she gets a secret job as a ghost writer.
From there we start to build out to a romance between the two while also dealing with Bryonyâs bid to get her own book published (the school is still in peril) and dealing with the prima donna âauthorâ Bryony ghost writes for. I loved that Bryony had found her voice as an author and we focused on her growing confidence in herself before the romance got hot and heavy, so that it could not be attributed to âwoman finds man and finds herself as a resultâ. I also loved the school storyline, especially Bryonyâs care for her quirky students. While the wrap up was clean and neat this story was so sweet and just that much different that I could absolutely get behind it. Iâd recommend you read this, perfect rom-com it may not be, itâs truly far better as a more nuanced story about a woman who starts to believe in herself, hard truths and all, and just so happens to have a good man waiting when she does.
michelleentebi's review against another edition
4.0
Thank you, netgalley, for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
rating: âââ⨠(3.5 stars, rounded up to 4)
release date: february 11, 2025
This was my first Melissa Ferguson book, and I went in completely blind. Iâd forgotten I requested it (oops) and decided to let the story surprise me. The beginning was slow and a bit confusing, and I had to push myself through, but Iâm glad I stuck with it.
The story follows Bryony, a ghostwriter dreaming of publishing her own novel while juggling the demands of Amelia, a frustratingly vain and difficult author. What I really loved, though, was the subplot involving Bryonyâs grandmotherâs ESL program, which added a lot of heart to the story. Bryonyâs motivation to help fund the program gave her character depth and made her goals feel more meaningful.
Jack, her literary agent, was easily my favorite partâsupportive, sweet, and a perfect he-falls-first hero. That said, I wish weâd gotten his POV. Without it, I felt like I never really got to know him, which left the romance feeling a little incomplete. Bryony, on the other hand, could be frustrating. Her inner monologue was confusing at times, and her naĂŻvetĂŠ made me want to shake her.
The dynamic between Jack and Bryony was greatâthey had a lot of chemistry, and it was clear their friendship gave the story a strong foundation. That said, maybe because they started as friends, the romance leaned more âbest friends supporting each otherâ than a full-on love story. Their time as a couple felt rushed, and I really wanted more of them together.
Still, the ending was fun and satisfying, and the ESL subplot kept me invested throughout. While The Perfect Romcom wasnât perfect, itâs an enjoyable, light read with a fresh premise and a charming love interest.
If youâre a fan of slow burns, friends-to-lovers, and stories with a little extra heart, this oneâs worth picking upâjust donât expect the romance to steal the show.
rating: âââ⨠(3.5 stars, rounded up to 4)
release date: february 11, 2025
This was my first Melissa Ferguson book, and I went in completely blind. Iâd forgotten I requested it (oops) and decided to let the story surprise me. The beginning was slow and a bit confusing, and I had to push myself through, but Iâm glad I stuck with it.
The story follows Bryony, a ghostwriter dreaming of publishing her own novel while juggling the demands of Amelia, a frustratingly vain and difficult author. What I really loved, though, was the subplot involving Bryonyâs grandmotherâs ESL program, which added a lot of heart to the story. Bryonyâs motivation to help fund the program gave her character depth and made her goals feel more meaningful.
Jack, her literary agent, was easily my favorite partâsupportive, sweet, and a perfect he-falls-first hero. That said, I wish weâd gotten his POV. Without it, I felt like I never really got to know him, which left the romance feeling a little incomplete. Bryony, on the other hand, could be frustrating. Her inner monologue was confusing at times, and her naĂŻvetĂŠ made me want to shake her.
The dynamic between Jack and Bryony was greatâthey had a lot of chemistry, and it was clear their friendship gave the story a strong foundation. That said, maybe because they started as friends, the romance leaned more âbest friends supporting each otherâ than a full-on love story. Their time as a couple felt rushed, and I really wanted more of them together.
Still, the ending was fun and satisfying, and the ESL subplot kept me invested throughout. While The Perfect Romcom wasnât perfect, itâs an enjoyable, light read with a fresh premise and a charming love interest.
If youâre a fan of slow burns, friends-to-lovers, and stories with a little extra heart, this oneâs worth picking upâjust donât expect the romance to steal the show.
emileereadsbooks's review against another edition
emotional
funny
inspiring
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.75
Eeeeeeeh! I wanted to squeal like a schoolgirl on a plane reading this one. It is so cute! And although there is a great romance here, this is also more about identity, personal growth, and living out your purpose. The funny conversations with characters learning English peppered throughout we're just the sprinkles on top of a perfectly iced cupcake. This book was a delight.
Content Note: Parental death (past)
Thanks to Thomas Nelson for the gifted title. All opinions are my own.
Content Note: Parental death (past)
Thanks to Thomas Nelson for the gifted title. All opinions are my own.
readingwithmegs97's review against another edition
funny
hopeful
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0