Very endearing and charming story. I loved the family dynamic and enjoyed the story overall. It was an easy story to get lost in, fast and fun read.

From the publisher: Filled with warmth, wit, and wisdom, Nora Goes Off Script is the best kind of love story—the real kind where love is complicated by work, kids, and the emotional baggage that comes with life. For Nora and Leo, this kind of love is bigger than the big screen.

I loved every page of this book! I am a Hallmark movie kind of a person and this was the perfect Summer read for me. If you are as well, this story of Nora finding her second act is a fit. The characters were relatable, the tone light, and the ending happy. It will leave you with a smile on your face and in your heart.

This was delightful! It reads (somewhat purposely) like a Hallmark movie, and I loved the main character, Nora. I loved the depth Annabel Monaghan gave to the characters, namely Nora, outside of the romance plot line.

It took me a bit to really settle into this story, but I’m glad I stuck with it. I’m not sure I would’ve chosen to categorize this book as romance, but I do think it will be perfect for fans of Evvie Drake Starts Over. I found the central love story very realistic and I appreciated how it spoke to the ways everyday actions make up a loving relationship.

Thank you Putnam Books and Netgalley for providing a digital review copy.

I have to say, Nora Goes Off Script caught me off guard in the best way possible. It blended cleverness and lightheartedness to create a truly charming romantic comedy that felt personal and enjoyable. From the very beginning, I was drawn into Nora's world as she navigated the unexpected twists and turns of her life. As a writer for TRC (The Romance Channel), her own dark story unexpectedly becomes a movie, with her quaint New York home serving as a picturesque backdrop. And that's when things get interesting, as she crosses paths with the film's star, Leo, and their chemistry sparks into something truly heartwarming and, at times, downright hilarious.

What struck me the most about this book was its feel-good nature. It had this undeniable charm that made it impossible not to get caught up in the romantic storyline. Even when there was a minor misunderstanding towards the end that could have easily been resolved with a simple phone call, it surprisingly didn't frustrate me as much as it usually would in other stories. The author somehow made it feel believable, and I found myself fully invested, going along with the flow and simply enjoying the ride.

Nora, as a character, quickly won me over with her unwavering determination and her deep love for her family. It added a layer of depth and relatability that made her journey all the more engaging. And Leo, oh Leo, he brought so much laughter into the story with his fascination for the little joys of everyday life. I found myself bursting out in laughter on more than one occasion at his clever remarks and hilarious antics. The comedic elements were skillfully woven into the narrative, making the book an absolute joy to read.

While Nora Goes Off Script had its strengths, there were a few areas that held it back from earning a higher rating in my book. I couldn't help but feel that there was untapped potential within the story, especially in terms of exploring deeper themes and emotions. The initial promise of depth at the beginning left me craving for more, and I wished it had been further developed throughout. Additionally, the use of a common misunderstanding as a plot device felt somewhat predictable, taking away from the book's overall freshness and originality.

In the end, Nora Goes Off Script is a charming romantic comedy that took me on a surprising journey. It effortlessly blended cleverness with lightheartedness, delivering a personal and enjoyable reading experience. Nora's determination and Leo's infectious humor made them endearing characters that I couldn't help but root for. While I wished for a bit more depth and a plot device that strayed from the norm, these minor flaws didn't overshadow the book's appeal. If you're looking for a heartwarming read with a dash of laughter, this book is definitely worth considering.

I have been wanting to read this book a long time and finally did after reading this Author’s newest.

I really enjoyed this one! I thought it had a fresh & fun storyline, and Nora was super likable as a hard working mom / screenwriter rebuilding her life post divorce.

Thank you to NetGalley for an advanced review copy.

I loved this story so much. Nora and Leo are so good together and the relationship he develops with her children is charming and adorable. There's humor, romance, real life problems, and misunderstandings. The setting sounds so peaceful and beautiful and I love how laid back Nora is as the movie is filmed at her garden house. Also, the rescue performed by an unexpected character toward the end is so emotionally satisfying. It's a feel good book that I listened to and can't wait to listen to again. Hillary Huber does a fantastic job with the narration!

This book was fantastic! I absolutely loved it. It is a witty and fun rom com with the best characters.

Being divorced is hard. Being divorced with kids is even harder. Now, imagine being a screenwriter of romance made for TV movies and being divorced with kids. Nora Hamilton's life is complicated. It comes with an ex-husband that is super self-absorbed, two kids, and a career that barely pays the bills....until she writes "The Tea House". The script that is based off of her crumbled marriage. AND, they choose her 100-year-old home to film on location!

Enter Leo Vance, heart throb actor that will play her ex-husband, in the movie. Everyone who meets Leo is instantly in love. He makes himself at home during the three-day shoot, but to Nora's surprise, Leo appears the day after the shoot is finished offering her $7,000 to stay for a week. She needs the cash and he needs some normalcy.

This book is sweet, warm, full of wit and reminded me of the perfect Hallmark movie. Grab this book if you're a hopeless romantic.

This was my first book by Annabel Monaghan, and it will not be my last. I just purchased "Same Time Next Summer" and I cannot wait to read it!

*I was given an advanced readers copy of this book for my unbiased opinion. Thank you Netgalley and G.P. Putnam's Sons for this opportunity.

Nora Goes Off Script is a cute book. I really enjoyed reading it - it was easy, fast paced, and great writing. Nora is a great lead and has such a good storyline. However, it was a little too surface level for me as I would've liked to see what actually happened between Nora and Ben at the beginning of the book and gotten to know Leo better. I just felt like it could've been flushed out more! Overall, I did like this book and I would recommend it.

A bit late to the game but this was such a great summery rom com! I really enjoyed it and it made my heart happy!!! I definitely think its a book everyone needs to read. The characters were great and I didn't want it to end.

"Nora Goes Off Script" is a delightful and heartfelt love story that explores the complexities of relationships amidst the backdrop of Hollywood glamour. Nora Hamilton, a screenwriter for a romance channel, finds herself facing a crumbling marriage and a newfound opportunity when her script is picked up for a film adaptation. What follows is a captivating tale of unexpected twists and the transformative power of love.

Annabel Monaghan weaves a narrative that effortlessly blends romance, humor, and introspection. Nora's journey from a broken marriage to a place of self-discovery is relatable and compelling. As she navigates the challenges of being a single mother and a successful writer, readers are treated to an authentic portrayal of the intricacies of balancing love and career.

The introduction of Leo Vance, a former Sexiest Man Alive cast as Nora's on-screen husband, adds an intriguing dynamic to the story. Leo's character brings a mix of charm, vulnerability, and emotional depth, which gradually draws Nora out of her shell. The chemistry between Nora and Leo is palpable, and their journey together is filled with both tender moments and unexpected obstacles.

What sets "Nora Goes Off Script" apart is its portrayal of love in a realistic manner. The novel delves into the complexities of relationships, exploring the challenges of blending personal and professional lives. The emotional baggage both Nora and Leo carry adds depth and authenticity to their connection, reminding readers that love is not always a smooth, fairytale romance.

The supporting characters in the book, including Nora's children and her quirky friends, bring an additional layer of warmth and humor to the story. Their presence adds depth to Nora's world and further highlights the challenges she faces as she tries to navigate her newfound romance while juggling her responsibilities.

With warmth, wit, and wisdom, "Nora Goes Off Script" captures the essence of real love—the kind that is tested by life's obstacles and requires compromise and understanding. The author's prose is engaging and immersive, making it easy to become invested in the characters' lives and rooting for their happiness.

Overall, "Nora Goes Off Script" is a captivating and uplifting read that will resonate with fans of romance and those seeking stories that reflect the complexities of modern love. Through Nora's journey, readers are reminded that love is not confined to the silver screen—it's messy, challenging, and ultimately worth fighting for.

📖 BOOK REVIEW

BOOK: Nora Goes Off Script
AUTHOR: Annabel Monaghan
FORMAT: Audiobook
GENRE: Contemporary Romance
DID I CRY: No
PUB DATE: 6/7/22
RATING: 5/10
⭐️⭐️💫

Thank you @putnambooks for my #gifted advanced copy of #NoraGoesOffScript

MY THOUGHTS

This book is very well loved & for its unique storyline & themes that go beyond relationship love, I can see why. Unfortunately for me it was a little bit of a miss. I was really invested for the first 25-30% ish of this book. I felt like the MC being a divorced, newly single mom of 2 living in a small town was refreshing and had a lot of potential. The writing was great, causing the story to flow and move right along.

The book kinda lost me about 1/3 of the way in. I felt like all of a sudden we were hit with random, out-of-place instalove and the story got super unrealistic. The love story felt rushed, which then led to it feeling disjointed as a whole. I felt like 40% of the book they weren’t even together, to the point where I didn’t think they’d even end up together in the end. I didn’t really enjoy the male MC, and the female MC started to irritate me about halfway through🤣. The conflict was bothersome (miscommunication trope, sigh) but combined with a GHOSTING TROPE… ain’t no way. Not for me. And then the ending as a whole felt outrageous after the course of the relationship throughout the book. I think if the pacing had been better, this could’ve been executed to fill in some of the plot holes. Otherwise, a miss for me.

3/5 Stars

This was just okay for me. While I enjoyed the overall book, I found myself getting frustrated with the characters for jumping to conclusions and I felt like the book went on a little longer than needed. I wanted more from this couple, there needed to be more chemistry. This did give some hallmark vibes which I'm always down for and I'm a sucker for most romance books that make me warm and fuzzy inside. I would still recommend giving it a read as I still had a good time.

What a wonderful book! I really enjoyed the main character and honestly didn't want the book to end!

Nora goes off script is the best kind of rom com. A book with a lot of heart and moments that actually make you laugh at loud. The main characters have real personality but it’s nice to see just as much effort given to developing the side characters. It’s fun to be along for the ride, and it’s sad to leave this community, and this beautiful family when it’s over. As soon as you finish you want to start it again.

This is the story of Nora and Leo. It was a quintessential romantic comedy, a sweet, feel good story with characters that capture your heart. Good pacing, good writing, and some genuinely funny moments that will have you laughing out loud. Nora definitely deserves the Hollywood fantasy Leo brings to her life. Such a great, heartwarming story!

This friends to lovers book had a great plot line and twist to keep you guessing until the very end!!

Thank you to Penguin Group Putnam & NetGalley for providing an e-arc for me to read & review.

Nora Goes Off Script was a breath of fresh air. Not a typical cheesy, predictable romance, which I very much appreciated. I enjoyed the family dynamic, the celebrity aspect, the relatable down to Earth characters, and the writing. I need this made into a movie ASAP!

I loved this book so very much. It was funny and romantic, and so touching. I can't wait to read more books by this author. I would highly recommend this to anyone and think it would make a great mothers day gift.

Top book I read in 2022. It was a pure delight! I am anxiously awaiting her next book! The setting was perfect and so very unique from so many other books. I felt like i sat down with an old friend from the very first page.