Review by Scribe After Five
Aug 19It took me a while to get through this book. I’m not sure if that was because of the physical copy I had—the text felt small and dense—or because there was a lot of narration that didn’t feel entirely necessary. Honestly, I think this story could’ve worked just as well, maybe even better, at under 200 pages.
That said, once I pushed through, it turned into an enjoyable read overall. I actually picked it up after hearing about the casting of Penn Badgley and Meghann Fahy—absolutely perfect choices. Their brand of sly, devious energy fits Nicholas and Naomi so well. The way these two push each other’s buttons is hilarious; they throw jabs and insults in the exact spots that sting, but it’s all laced with love.
Halfway through, I realized this book feels like if Monster-in-Law and How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days had a baby. A chaotic, perfect blend. The controlling, overbearing mother-in-law combined with the banter and games between Nicholas and Naomi had me constantly entertained.
As someone single (so maybe not the best authority on engagements or long-term relationships), I really appreciated how the story explored what happens after the honeymoon phase fades—when love starts to look less like butterflies and more like learning how to choose each other again, even through resentment and routine. I especially loved how Nicholas never truly strayed from Naomi. His love for her was always there, just muted by his own frustrations and self-loathing. And Naomi’s growth was equally strong—she quickly recognized her toxic patterns and made a conscious effort to change, to meet Nicholas halfway. That effort is what ultimately made them stronger as a couple, and I found that really satisfying.
Song choice: Take Me Where Your Heart Is by Q
It took me a while to get through this book. I’m not sure if that was because of the physical copy I had—the text felt small and dense—or because there was a lot of narration that didn’t feel entirely necessary. Honestly, I think this story could’ve worked just as well, maybe even better, at under 200 pages.
That said, once I pushed through, it turned into an enjoyable read overall. I actually picked it up after hearing about the casting of Penn Badgley and Meghann Fahy—absolutely perfect choices. Their brand of sly, devious energy fits Nicholas and Naomi so well. The way these two push each other’s buttons is hilarious; they throw jabs and insults in the exact spots that sting, but it’s all laced with love.
Halfway through, I realized this book feels like if Monster-in-Law and How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days had a baby. A chaotic, perfect blend. The controlling, overbearing mother-in-law combined with the banter and games between Nicholas and Naomi had me constantly entertained.
As someone single (so maybe not the best authority on engagements or long-term relationships), I really appreciated how the story explored what happens after the honeymoon phase fades—when love starts to look less like butterflies and more like learning how to choose each other again, even through resentment and routine. I especially loved how Nicholas never truly strayed from Naomi. His love for her was always there, just muted by his own frustrations and self-loathing. And Naomi’s growth was equally strong—she quickly recognized her toxic patterns and made a conscious effort to change, to meet Nicholas halfway. That effort is what ultimately made them stronger as a couple, and I found that really satisfying.
Song choice: Take Me Where Your Heart Is by Q
