Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins for providing me this eARC. All opinions are of my own.
Written in the Stars is an own voices, LGBTQIA, rom-com. It’s big trope is fake dating done in a tasteful & adorable manner. The characters are well written with hilariously contrasting personalities. The romance almost resembles a Hallmark novel! It’s a fun & quick read that all romance and young-adult fans alike would enjoy! I absolutely devoured this book & have no complaints. There are some detailed scenes that would encourage me to not recommend the story to younger readers (or at least ask a parent first). I give this book 5 large and sparkly stars.

Reviewed at Culturess https://culturess.com/2020/11/12/written-stars-gay-pride-prejudice-retelling-need/

This delightful fake dating/opposites attract romance is undeniably swoon worthy and is absolutely magnificent from start to finish.
Elle and Darcy get set up on a blind date with disastrous results. They both feel an incredible spark toward one another but with virtually nothing in common and a terrible first impression its clearly not meant to be. Until one little white lie pulls them back together.
This romance is funny and heartwarming. I laughed so much throughout this story. Bellefleur is a comedic genius. The playful banter and hilarious situations were marvelous. The chemistry and attraction between Elle and Darcy was perfect. They mesh so well together and the sexual tension is off the charts.
Elle and Darcy both have such vibrant and lovable personalities. I couldn’t get enough of either of them. Elle being the sweet hopeless romantic who believes in magic and soulmates. Darcy the curmudgeonly workaholic who wants to avoid all matters of the heart to avoid getting hurt again. These two drastically different women fit together like puzzle pieces.
Written in the Stars has all of the cornerstones of a stellar romantic comedy. This story is funny, unbelievably sweet, and sexy as hell. Chock full of family drama, emotional turmoil, and hijinks galore. Hands down one of my favorite reads.

4.5 stars

I loved this book so freaking much. This was such a good YA f/f romance. I was hooked from the beginning by these two polar opposites. On one side, we have Darcy, a girl who doesn't have a lot of friends because her focus is on her studies/career and she doesn't take the time or want to take a chance on someone else. But her brother is set on matching her up with his best friend Elle, a free-spirited girl who dreams of meeting her soulmate and believes in astrology. When they finally accept a blind date, it doesn't go very well and even though they think they'll never see each other again, Darcy lies to her brother to get him to stop bothering her. That lie is going to end up starting their fake relationship...

Overall, Written in the Stars was very entertaining and I loved the characters. They felt so real and I just wanted them to be happy. Also, I wanted to note that even though this book is YA, the characters share chemistry and sex is definitely there. I didn't expect it but it was a really nice surprise.

I can't wait to read another f/f story by this author. If she publishes one, I'll be excited to dive into it.


(Thank you for letting me read and review an ARC via Netgalley)

This book is a master class in fake dating. It had me hooked from the very beginning. Watching Elle and Darcy fall for each other was an absolute delight. The way they supported one another and softened into each other's company was beautiful--it was so satisfying, like watching puzzle pieces slot together. This book felt like a warm hug and I recommend it to everyone.

This was a fun sapphic, opposites-attract, fake dating romance! It was a fun book and I enjoyed it. However, there's a very large amount of Harry Potter references (which I wouldn't be happy about in any book, but especially in a queer book when JKR is a bigot) and the ending of the book after the third-act breakup felt too quickly and easily wrapped up. I liked the characters and their distinct personalities, but I probably won't bother reading the next book in the series.

A thing in fiction that continues to delight me excessively is the evolution of the manic pixie dream girl into the disaster bisexual, which is so much better in so many ways. This book has big Grumpy One/Sunshine One energy, which we all know is my absolute favorite, and it’s exacerbated by the Sunshine One, Elle, being a complete and total disaster bisexual in literally every way. She is an utter delight, and Grumpy One (with a Secret Smooshy Inside, of course) Darcy is reluctantly charmed by all of it.

This is one of those books that is comprised of stellar moments, connected by a fairly standard storyline. (The fake relationship storyline, by the way, plays out SO WELL in f/f, because Darcy’s inability to communicate her emotions about her unwillingness to end the relationship as agreed upon, among other things, has nothing to do with toxic masculinity and everything to do with her actual, real-life emotions and needing to deal with her past). This is a low-angst story; there’s the requisite dark moment, and it’s dark enough, but in general, you can fit so much COMMUNICATION into this baby. *pats book* Elle is clear from the start about what she’s looking for, and grows even better at understanding and communicating what she deserves to have, and learns to be very clear about her boundaries (a fact that made me punch the air in glee). Even as Darcy struggles to get over the life events which caused her to set up the walls that Elle is gleefully barrelling over, she’s TRYING. Even when she is literally speechless, she understands what she needs to do.

But really, where this book shines is in the interactions. The story goes careening between adorable moments and awkward ones, painful family interactions and gratifying friendships, bouncing around with banter and wit and a LOT of heat. The spark between Elle and Darcy is fierce from the beginning, and the sex scenes are steamy, but honestly the bits I liked the most were the parts where they were NOTICING each other. At one point, Darcy watches Elle bite her own lip and realizes that she is jealous of Elle’s teeth, because she wants to be the one doing the biting, and it’s just… SO GOOD. Watching Darcy blossom under Elle’s relentless sunshine is a soothing, feel-good read. And Elle’s not just bubbles and sunshine; she’s got a career she’s worked hard for, and a solid education. One of my absolute favorite moments happened really early on in the story: Darcy (who is an actuary! I LOVE THIS), asks Elle how she makes her money. And Elle tells her! With a solid, explicit explanation of her various income streams and absolutely no bashfulness about using her skills and her passions to make real money. Normalize women talking about money, please.

I’m excited to keep going in this world – I’m loving Elle and Darcy’s friend group, and hoping to see more of their stories. (I hear Brendon’s story is coming next, and I can’t decide which of the hints that were dropped I want it to be – or neither!)

First off, that cover is GORGEOUS. A Pride & Prejudice-inspired, fake-dating, grumpy/sunshine, opposites-attract wlw romance? Yes, please! It’s an absolutely delicious trope sundae and I absolutely gobbled this book up.

“I think it’s nice,” Elle argued. “If you don’t believe in love, what’s left to believe in?”
Darcy tongue poked against the inside of her cheek. “Sweet in theory, but a bit starry-eyed, don’t you think?”
Was that a dig and a quip about her profession? “I’d rather be starry-eyed than jaded.”


Sick of being set up by her dating app founder, one-true-love believing brother, Darcy lies and says that she and Elle, the last of her disastrous blind dates, are now in a relationship – unbeknownst to Elle, who’s understandably furious and worried that it will affect her contract with Darcy’s brother’s company. But Darcy convinces Elle to play along, at least until New Year’s Eve, when they can happily “break up” and go their own ways. After all, what could two such disparate people ever have in common?

“Snow is pretty.”
She stuck out her tongue. “Oh please. For all of ten minutes before it turns into gray sludge that refreezes into black ice that’s responsible for 24 percent of weather-related vehicle crashes, injuring over seventy-five thousand and killing nearly nine hundred annually.”
That was depressing and yet, something about Darcy’s ability to rattle off random statistics—morbid as they were—was oddly hot. Disconcerting competence porn.”


Honestly, I can’t think of something much more opposite than an astrologer and an actuary! The astrology stuff went completely over my head, but even I could tell how passionate Elle was about it – and that’s one of the things I loved about Darcy as well. Darcy most certainly doesn’t believe in it, but she knows it’s important to Elle so she makes it a priority to learn about it for her – even if it’s just so she can figure out what makes Elle tick and why Darcy is so drawn to her. Darcy’s had her heart broken before, and she’s buried her feelings so deep that she’s not even really sure what’s going on with Elle. She has a plan to pass a final exam to get ahead in her actuary career, and she doesn’t have time for anything else. Elle is much more of a romantic, on the search for true love and relentlessly optimistic. It’s not that she’s unrealistic, but more that once she finds something that will make her happy, she reaches for it. On the surface, these two are complete opposites, but their immediate chemistry – even during their disastrous blind date – was electric and undeniable. The setup for the fake dating trope was excellent, and every little bit they revealed about their real selves just further cemented them as the perfect pairing in my mind. I may have spent a good portion of the book yelling at Elle and Darcy to just kiss already! This also has some surprise holiday content, including an absolutely heart-eyes scene with a Christmas tree.

“Quit trying to marry me off like I’m some Regency spinster in one of your favorite Austen novels.”
“Your name is Darcy.”
“And I might be a single woman in possession of a good fortune, but I’m not in want of a wife.”


This is very much more P&P-inspired than a straight retelling. For instance, sure, the main characters are named Darcy and Elle, and there’s some definite unfortunate impressions. Plus, Elle’s family members generally display some of the same character traits. Elle’s family, especially her mom, acts like she doesn’t have a “real job” and downplays her accomplishments. She feels inadequate, like nothing she does – short of getting a 9-to-5 office job – will ever be good enough for them. Luckily, Elle has plenty of support in the form of her roommate and business partner, Margot. I loved how supportive she was of Elle, even when she wasn’t sure she was doing the right thing. After the relationship’s dark moment, she doesn’t say “I told you so” or gloat, she just quietly reaffirms that Elle is a good person and deserving of love. Darcy’s brother has more boundary issues – he means well but tends to push harder than he should – but Brendon still cares deeply for her and comes from a place of making sure Darcy’s happy. My only complaint is that I think the book ended abruptly. I would’ve liked an additional chapter or epilogue to show their relationship after their reconciliation.

Overall, I adored this book, and can’t wait for Brendon’s book!

I received an advance review copy of this book from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

Written in the Stars follows Darcy, a total type A hardworking woman who is trying to improve her career and NOT fall in love, and Elle, a chill woman who lives for astrology and is looking for her soulmate. After a disastrous blind date, Elle thinks she will never see Darcy again until they get stuck in a sticky situation. Readers follow Darcy and Elle as they try fake dating to get their families off their backs, but when feelings start to arise they have to decide what they want with each other.

I’m not someone who reads lots of romance, but that is because most romances follow a male and a female and I just cannot relate to it let alone care about the story. With this being a wlw romance I jumped right in and loved it! I was so sad to see it end because I just wanted more cuteness! Written in the Stars was such a quick and easy read. It follows two women who are completely opposite from one another, but are exactly what each other needs. I will say that I am an absolute sucker for the fake dating trope but this book did such an amazing job with it. I highly recommend this book if you’re looking for a sweet wlw novel that will warm your heart.

I'm a fan of the fake dating trope, and I've been making an effort to seek out and support more lgbt fiction in hopes it will become the norm. So I had to request Written in the Stars. Though some reviews reference classic literature like Pride and Prejudice, this is not a retelling of any work, rather it feels reminiscent of classic romances. This was an endearing and well-written tale, and I'll likely pick it up again when I'm in need of a cozy story.

This was super cute, and I adored every moment of it! I could see the hints of Pride and Prejudice, but it wasn't so much that it overwhelmed the rest of the story. I also LOVED the fake dating rope being used, and it was just such a nice read to break up all the fantasy and sci-fi that I normally love. Highly recommended!

This book is delightful. It's got humor, spice, and a fake relationship. I knew I was 100% in after an excellent pickle based pun during an argument.

After a disastrous first date, Elle and Darcy end up faking a relationship for mutual gain. They're an obvious mismatch - Elle is a popular social media astrologer and Darcy is an actuary. But their chemistry is strong and their connection keeps getting stronger.

Only a book as strong as this one could have kept my attention during election week 2020. Both of the MCs are charming. I appreciate the Seattle setting with places I can recognize (those dodgy public restrooms in Pike Place Market? Very real). Both characters are working through issues with their families that felt real.

I'm going to have to reread it with undivided attention sometime. And I'm very much looking forward to what this new author puts out next!

I received an ARC of the book from the publisher via NetGalley.

4.5 Stars

Darcy, an actuary and Elle, an astrologer enters into a fake relationship to appease their family. Even though both women had an awful first blind date, circumstances lead them to this choice, and the rest is history.
🌟
I loved Elle, she was so damn special, like stardust and early Christmas presents. And Darcy, even bottled up tight glowed with humor and energy. Plus, she couldn't resist Elle.
🌟
The steamy scenes (clears throat and fans self giddily) gave my imagination no mercy, they were bold, electric and explosive honey. I think I'm pretty well-read but lawks, my cheeks were burning☺☺. I blushed a fair bit, then continued on like it's free alcohol season 🍷.
🌟
I honestly could not put this book down, I love opposites attract reads and the nod to Pride and Prejudice did not go unnoticed. Its a rom-com match made among the stars. Just effing adorable. I was a bit disappointed with how rushed the ending was, just wished there was another chapter to tie everything up smoothly, but, it was good non the less. I'll definitely be getting a copy of this gem💖.

I received a complimentary eARC and ALC of Written in the Stars by Alexandria Bellefleur from Avon through Netgalley. All opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Written in the Stars comes out tomorrow, November 10th!

When Darcy's brother sets her up on a blind date with Elle, it goes horribly wrong. Darcy isn't looking for love, but her brother (the creator of a successful dating app) is determined to help her find "the one." Wanting to deter his attempts to set her up, Darcy lies and tells him the date went well. But she didn't think the lie through. Elle is her brother's business partner, a popular astrologer who is helping with the dating app. Elle confronts Darcy about her lies and Darcy begs Elle to play along for a little while. It's mutually beneficial: Darcy doesn't have to deal with her brother's pestering for a while and Elle's family will see she can sustain a relationship. They're complete opposites, so they don't expect their fake relationship to turn into the real thing.

This book was really cute and pretty steamy! It'll definitely appeal to you if you're interested in a sapphic opposites attract and fake dating combo! I enjoyed this one a lot. I mostly listened to the audio, which was done very well. Darcy and Elle are very different, but they're both relatable and loveable. My rating for this one dropped a little because some aspects of the writing style and certain word choices bothered me, but overall I'm so glad I read this one! The story itself was fun and made for a satisfying read. Written in the Stars is a great book to read over the holidays if you're looking for a sweet sapphic romance with a little steam!

Written In The Stars by Alexandria Bellefleur is my first same sex romantic comedy novel and I loved it. I adored these two very different women who made me laugh, cry a bit and say, "...aww that is so sweet" many times.

Elle is a social media astrologer. I did not know that was a career but I am learning as I read. She is the prime example of a free spirit who won't give up on love.

Darcy (yes that name is definitely a wink to Austen fans) is an actuary who like her job is very serious and not one for frivolity. Love has hurt her and she has given up on it. For some reason Brendon, Darcy's brother, thinks a blind date between Darcey and Elle, his new business partner, is a great idea. Of course it is a disaster.

Both women realize a fake relationship (my favorite troup) at least until the New Year will stop everyone from fixing them up and give them some peace.

There was so many great cultural references in this book from Samantha's twitching nose on Bewitched to fanfiction writing about soap opera Days of Our Lives. I loved the banter among all the characters especially between Elle and her best friend Margot (who is one of my favorite characters).

We may see the ending coming from the first page but there is something very comforting in this knowledge and the journey to the end is just pure delight.

This debut novel is just the perfect feel good distraction we all need. @netflix this book is your next movie!

I received a free copy of this book from the publishers via NetGalley for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

I love any adaptation of a Jane Austen book and this one hits the mark! Elle Jones runs a popular astrology site and is on the cusp of breaking through with a new astrology app and her boss thinks she is the perfect partner for his sister. Darcy Lowell likes her life orderly and structured and she doesn't need her brother to keep setting her up with women. After a disastrous date, Elle and Darcy are happy to never see each other again. But when her brother won't let up, Darcy gets the idea that a fake relationship would be the perfect way to get him off her back and just needs Elle to agree to the scheme -- just until the holidays are over. The timing couldn't be better for Elle. Having a stable relationship and career might just get her overbearing family's respect.

The chemistry between Darcy and Elle is superb! And the sexual tension was great. These opposites do eventually attract and the end result is a book about learning to love yourself as you are and finding the person who appreciates that.

Included as a top pick in bimonthly November New Releases post, which highlights and promotes upcoming releases of the month (link attached).

Longform review is also linked below.

I expected to love this novel. I’m generally fond of rom-coms, I’m crazy about the fake relationship trope, and I was looking forward to the novelty of a romance between two women. Sadly, I found it more ridiculous and frustrating than romantic and fun.

If you’re familiar with attachment theory, most of the conflict here involves the two main characters’ insecure attachment styles and resulting miscommunication. They do the classic anxious-avoidant dance, which I found painful to read. That might not bother you if you’ve never felt trapped in that relationship dynamic, but it was surprisingly triggering for me. Not fun.

I actually enjoyed the scenes where Elle and Darcy were just hanging out enjoying each other’s company, but I found their supposed romance unbelievable. This was too much insta-lust, not enough time learning to understand each other. How could these women fall so dramatically in love in just a few weeks when they weren’t even spending that much time together? Why would anyone expect someone to pronounce her undying love after such a short time? Blech! It makes my skin crawl.

I did enjoy some aspects of this book. I loved all of the references to celestial bodies, whether as astrology, astronomy, or metaphor. There were lots of cute geeky references to Pride and Prejudice, dating apps, Harry Potter, soap operas, Seattle landmarks, and fanfiction communities, among others. Some of the dialog, and particularly the text messaging, was amusing. I’ll admit that I laughed out loud a couple times, and I don’t know how I survived so long without the benefit of the term “Disconcerting competence porn.”

If you don’t care whether your romances depict healthy relationships, then you might enjoy this more than I did.

Thanks to Avon Books and HarperCollins Publishers for providing me with an ARC through NetGalley, which I volunteered to review.

Written in the Stars, Alexandria Bellefleur's debut, draws inspiration from Pride and Prejudice, but it's hardly a retelling. The plot and characters are significantly different from Austen's (Elizabeth Bennet would definitely laugh at anyone believing in astrology - which would absolutely include Mrs. Bennet and Mr. Collins), but they're charming on their own merits. Elle, a social media astrologer, and Darcy, an uptight actuary recovering from a painful breakup, agree to fake a relationship through the holiday season - only to discover that opposites seriously attract. It's a heartwarming f/f romance that makes strong use of the fake dating trope, and though it relies once too often on bad communication skills, things like mistrustfulness and inability to express one's feelings seem absolutely in character for these two starstruck lovers.

My biggest complaint about Written in the Stars, really, is that it...sort of...has too many words? It's a little on the longer side of average but still far from what you might call a tome, and yet everything feels like it takes a little too long. A few too many words describing the way Elle and Darcy look to one another, a little too much time recapping the same emotional baggage. It could all be tightened up and clarified, and it'd be better for it. But it's still a fun, swoony-steamy book, and I'm sure there will be plenty of readers for whom extra pages spent with Darcy and Elle, and their starry-eyed romance, will be a bonus.

Thank you to Avon and NetGalley for the advance review copy!

First of all, who DOESN'T love a Sapphic fake-dating trope with strong Pride & Prejudice vibes? I love Elle SO MUCH, because I'm something of a mess myself maybe, I don't know. I also really liked Darcy. I feel like a lot of Sapphic romances have the chaotic messy sunshine one and the cold ice queen, and I don't normally like the ice queen character as much - but I did really like Darcy. (And this is despite sort of hating Pride & Prejudice and especially Mr. Darcy.) I did keep comparing the characters and trying to make a more direct connection to P&P, but it's not a retelling so much as a sort of vibe that carries over.

The chemistry between Elle and Darcy is amazing, and I really treasured the friendship between Elle/Margot and Darcy/Brendon as well. The sex scenes are *chef's kiss* and the you could cut the sexual tension with a knife. I wanted to jump into this book and go on a double date with Elle and Darcy, or hang out with Elle and Margot, and just basically make everyone be my new best friend, which is how I, personally, know I've found a great book. Also, I hate cilantro and think it tastes like soap, but I still love Elle. (You'll know when you read it.)