In “The Rom-Commers” by Kathryn Center, Emma Wheeler was given the opportunity of a lifetime—to go to Hollywood and work together with Charlie Yates, one of the greatest screenwriters of all time, and help him get his first romcom script back on track. Even though Emma has spent the last ten years caring for her father, she still believes in romance. Charlie, on the other hand, does not.

There are no great surprises here—it’s a “rom-com”. We know from the very beginning that Emma and Charlie are destined to be together. But the writing is so witty and the journey is so pleasant. This is a perfect book to cozy up with on a long afternoon. Many thanks to Net Galley and to the publisher for an ARC of this great book.

Another lovely book by Katherine Center. I enjoyed it immensely. Being a translator, I related to the protagonists' love for words, playing with them, savoring them. And the work process is also very similar to ours!

Here's a random quote for you, just because I often choose my books based on random quotes, not on personal opinions:

"There was a good writing lesson in there — that being dismissed is worse than being scorned. In a different frame of mind, I might have paused to think about it: Of course not mattering is worse. It means you didn't even register. It means you're not even worth getting mad about. It means you're literally nobody."

Thanks to Netgalley, St. Martin's Press and the author for my free advanced reading copy in exchange for my honest opinion. This book is a gem!

I love Emma! This book had me laughing out loud. The characters were charming. The plot is refreshing - even as a rom com. There are moments of seriousness and emotion but it just makes all the rest so heartwarming.

This offered a pleasant escape into the world of light-hearted romance, a deviation from my normal mystery choice. While enjoyable, it didn’t quite capture my heart like some of Center’s other works. One standout element, however, was the impeccable narration in the audiobook version, Patti Murin is fantastic for this genre.

The plot follows a predictable trajectory common in romantic comedies, you pretty much know where the story’s headed—it’s your typical rom-com ride. However, Center deftly weaves in some heavier themes, adding depth to the narrative. Despite its predictability, the novel still manages to entertain and engage readers looking for a light-hearted escape.

This may not be my favorite from Katherine Center, it’s still a worthwhile read for fans of the genre, especially for those who appreciate some strong family dynamics with a sprinkle of drama and well-executed audiobook experience.

Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s press for this arc.

Loved it. Such a swooney rom com of a book. Literally in the title. I loved both Emma and Charlie, but Emma’s inner dialogue really made her come alive. Enjoyed it so much!

I read The Bodyguard as my first Katherine Center book and thoroughly enjoyed it. When I saw the opportunity to request an ARC of The Rom-Commers I jumped at the opportunity... and I think I am on the minority side of not liking it.

The premise of the book was the perfect plot for the topic of the book: two screenwriters being paired together to write a rom-com. One of them was never successful in getting their career started and the other is a staple name in the film industry. Emma is the unsuccessful writer who is a teacher and does any writing job her manager sends her in order to stay afloat with her father (who was in a terrible access 10 years ago and has led her to become his caretaker). Charlie is the successful one who writes a script and it becomes gold. He's behind many successful films and doesn't believe in love due to his own failed marriage.

I really wanted to enjoy this but could not get over the main characters, primarily Charlie. Charlie was overly rude towards and behind Emma's back it was concerning. The amount of times that Emma overheard him say she was an unsuccessful screenwriter nobody to literally anyone that would listen was upsetting and yet she never stood up for herself. I get that she's a big fan of his and an admirer but I really wish she would've confronted him about the things he was saying. Also, the third-act breakup was done in such a way that could've been done with communication! These two are well into their late 20s and could've solved everything by simply talking.

With Emma, I felt for her due to the circumstances she was under and the disaster that happened 10 years ago that completely changed the trajectory of her family's lives, however, it was very hot and cold with her. I saw someone pointed out that she witnesses the accident of her parents and then later making a joke about dying on a cliff, and then again with her at the pool and injuring her organs. The incident with her at the pool in the slinky dress was very toxic and I felt like that could've been omitted from the book. And the things she said to her sister were very harsh and I'm kind of glad her sister said what she said.I read The Bodyguard as my first Katherine Center book and thoroughly enjoyed it. When I saw the opportunity to request an ARC of The Rom-Commers I jumped at the opportunity... and I think I am on the minority side of not liking it.

The premise of the book was the perfect plot for the topic of the book: two screenwriters being paired together to write a rom-com. One of them was never successful in getting their career started and the other is a staple name in the film industry. Emma is the unsuccessful writer who is a teacher and does any writing job her manager sends her in order to stay afloat with her father (who was in a terrible access 10 years ago and has led her to become his caretaker). Charlie is the successful one who writes a script and it becomes gold. He's behind many successful films and doesn't believe in love due to his own failed marriage.

I really wanted to enjoy this but could not get over the main characters, primarily Charlie. Charlie was overly rude towards and behind Emma's back it was concerning. The amount of times that Emma overheard him say she was an unsuccessful screenwriter nobody to literally anyone that would listen was upsetting and yet she never stood up for herself. I get that she's a big fan of his and an admirer but I really wish she would've confronted him about the things he was saying. Also, the third-act breakup was done in such a way that could've been done with communication! These two are well into their late 20s and could've solved everything by simply talking.

With Emma, I felt for her due to the circumstances she was under and the disaster that happened 10 years ago that completely changed the trajectory of her family's lives, however, it was very hot and cold with her. I saw someone pointed out that she witnesses the accident of her parents and then later making a joke about dying on a cliff, and then again with her at the pool and injuring her organs. The incident with her at the pool in the slinky dress was very toxic and I felt like that could've been omitted from the book. And the things she said to her sister were very harsh and I'm kind of glad her sister said what she said. I also wish more was done with her hair instead of constantly being negative about it and keeping in a "pom pom" at the nape of her neck or a top knot.

The ending was not my favorite and wish it was different but again, could be for other people! I can say that there were funny moments as well as sweet moments between her and her father. Thank you to St. Martin's Press and netgalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.

The ending was not my favorite and wish it was different but again, could be for other people! I can say that there were funny moments as well as sweet moments between her and her father, and it was a quick read. Thank you to St. Martin's Press and netgalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.

"I had a theory that we gravitate toward the stories we need in life. Whatever we’re longing for—adventure, excitement, emotion, connection—we turn to stories that help us find it. Whatever questions we’re struggling with—sometimes ones so deep, we don’t even really know we’re asking them—we look for answers in stories."

The Rom-Commers is an absolute delight & my new favorite Katherine Center book!
Charlie and Emma had me invested from page 1. I adore their mutual oddities - they are both such lovable, wonderful weirdos. The fears, the grief, the ways they both used control to manage the anxiety of the unknown - and what bigger unknown is there than falling in love? The risk and vulnerability required is terrifying, especially when you've been burned by hope before. But as Charlie and Emma embark on rewriting his apocalyptically terrible rom-com screenplay, they work through what has been keeping each of them from living their lives more fully: we do not get to pick and choose the "good" emotions and leave the "bad." All emotions are required for this life.

I know I'll be quoting this book forever. Plastering passages into journals and on social media posts, buying stickers and t-shirts, probably. There is just something about Katherine Center's words and how she brings all these human feelings and thoughts and experiences to life in bright, vivid detail.

This is a must read for rom-com lovers everywhere. All the stars! I'm
Off to pre-order a copy! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thank you to #NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest feedback.

The Rom-Commers…the most ADORABLE rom com 💕📝📚

Emma dreams of being a screenwriter. She’s written some, enough to prove she has raw talent, but has yet to catch her big break. Mostly due to her dad’s need for 24 hr care, which she’s taken full responsibility.

Charlie Yates is a super famous screenwriter, (also Emma’s screen writing idol) who attempted to write a rom com, a genre he’s never ventured into previously. However, it turned out worse than terrible.

Ghastly.

Horrendous.

Frightening.

So who’s brought in to help him with his rewrite? You guessed it, Emma. But you know what they say…don’t meet your heros.

This book was SO fun. It was one of the most adorable rom coms I’ve ever read. I was sucked in from the beginning and I stayed up until 1am to finish it because I COULDN’T. PUT. IT. DOWN. I’ve always loved Katherine Center books but this one swept me away!! ♾️⭐️

Read it if you like:
- Grumpy/sunshine
- Books about writers
- Movies starring Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan
- Workplace tension
- Living under one roof
- AMAZING banter
- Pets with funny names

Is it over yet? Do I have to read Charlie Yates name one more time? I hate that I am writing what I am about to write. This author has gained a great following of faithful readers that give glowing reviews and I love that for her. We all have our authors that make us feel this way. This will not be one of those reviews. I thought about tagging this review with an AITH because I just could not stand this thing and somehow I am the one that feels terrible about this. Probably because I can't write a book so I am feeling guilty about tearing this one apart? Who knows.

I am not even sure where to begin:

Charlie Yates? I would like to know how many words this book is...and of those words how many of them are Charlie Yates? I swear I could scream if I had to hear that name one more time and here I am writing his name three times in one review. Trust me, I am irritated with myself for it. Also, this guy is a straight up asshole. You will not root for him.

My distaste for the FMC? - this girl is all over the place and it's obnoxious. One minute all sassy and confident the next she's out looking for her backbone. I am not saying you can't be both but I got whiplash with the back and forth of this girl's drama.

Lack of chemistry? There are zero signs of why these two should be together? He trash talks her. She stays around and allows for it. It's a cold zone here. No flame can survive.

The obsession with Hollywood? I was confused how we had real Hollywood stars names and a bunch of fake Hollywood names. Pick a lane please. I also don't care for all the Hollywood worshipping that was happening. It fatigued me.

All the medical attention storylines? Lots of action here and didn't care for one of it...especially that last one. WTF. But I'll be honest, I had given up on this book saving itself at this point that I pry glossed over that more than I should have. Had I truly been invested...I would have thrown the kindle across the room.

Airport Captain? As a pilot's wife, this whole storyline is probably not actually happening unless the President of the airline himself makes this call or if a high number of people for that flight are all delayed from another flight. Gate agents get marked up if that plane doesn't leave on time. So I need to know who Salvador knows at Southwest to make this happen.

Miscommunication? This right here will totally tank a book for me so fast. Why can't some characters just be adults? Communication is healthy! Let's all try in our books sometimes vs the unnecessary third act break ups that no one cares for.

So AITH?

Thanks NetGalley and publisher for the advanced read! While I didn't enjoy, I do appreciate the opportunity.

Thank you @stmartinspress and Netgalley for providing me this galley copy for my review. All opinions are my own.

Katherine Center could write a grocery list and I would read it. I absolutely adore Katherine Center and the Rom-Commers is up there for one of my favourite Katherine Center books.

The dialogue? Amazing.

The characters? Multi-faceted.

Did I laugh out loud? Yes.

Did I cry? For sure.

And this is why I love Katherine because she writes love stories that are actual love stories. They are full of people with flaws, and heartache the pain of life but also able to capture the joys of life too. And it all boils down to how love is so essential to human beings that we need it like we need air.

Did some parts of this make me want to pull my hair out? Absolutely but the thing is these characters are likeable because sometimes they’re not. You can see yourself in them , you can see your own reactions in the pages of the story.

Even the ending I wasn’t a huge fan of but do I understand why she did it? 10000% and that’s why I will always read her work because even if it doesn’t go the way I think, it still takes my breath away and leaves me wanting more ALWAYS!!

Also I enjoyed the little nod to the Bodyguard in this one, it was a cute little thing that now makes me want to go back and re-read the bodyguard!

Katherine, this is my plea please write 10 more books a year that I can devour.

Katherine Center is an automatic read for me! She writes characters that come alive and that I care for and root for. The Rom-Commers was no exception.

Emma Wheeler is a screen writer who wishes she could use her talent but is dedicated to taking care of her father. Her father was injured in a camping accident years ago so it us up to her to take care of him. After her sister graduates, it will be her turn to take on the care taker role and then Emma can dream about her future. But then an opportunity is presented to her. She gets a chance to re-write a script for famous screenwriter Charlie Yates. She has idolized Charlie Yates for YEARS. So when her ex-boyfriend, Logan, calls her to come help Charlie re-write a rom-com, she reluctantly jumps at the chance.

Emma's younger sister takes on the role of caretaker for the six weeks that she is scheduled to be gone. Emma packs up and leaves for LA with excited hopes and dreams. But when she gets there, Charlie doesn't want to write with anyone else. Logan is Charlie's manager and set this up with hopes of turning this failed rom-com into something but Emma overhears Charlie say that Emma is “a failed, nobody screenwriter” and then she decides then and there to stop being nice and start being real. Can they work together? Will the story get better?

I just loved reading this one to find out the antics that happened in this one. After Emma decided to be true to herself and fight for what she believes in, the story flew by for me. The characters had such depth and I couldn't put this one down. There were parts where I swooned and was rooting so hard. I'm a sucker for a HEA so I was hoping this didn't disappoint. I think this is going in my top 3 favorites of Katherine Center.

Huge thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for providing me with a digital review copy of this awesome book in exchange for my honest opinions.

What an absurdly cute novel! Wow! I read this cover to cover in one sitting and don’t regret a second. Move over, Emily Henry - there’s a new rom-commer in town!

I loved this novel. I love the way the romance is so blatant yet sweet, predictable but meant to be, and just so pure and beautiful. Anyone can write a novel with a ton of spice, but the slow burn takes skill, and Center has done it. I think this book is the perfect summer read and really palatable for plenty of readers. I’m not one for romance novels, but I loved this one. So heartwarming and a feel-good read. LOVE LOVE LOVE this one.

A true ode to the genre!

It has everything a rom-com should: the meet-disaster, the enemies to friends to lovers pipeline, the best banter, the sunshine teaching the grump how to be a bit more positive. It has a good dose of trauma, but it is the type to make you appreciate the sweet moments all the more. It's closed-door but with the right amount of heat to make you appreciate the make-out sessions. Forced proximity doesn't feel forced here; it feels right. There are so many classic scenes: the caretaking, the montage of cute moments, the confessions. It never shied away from the fact that Emma fell first, but Charlie fell harder. Yes please!

Unfortunately, the alpha-hole act was a little too alpha-hole. There were a lot of times where I was rooting for Emma to get out of that situation, like when he randomly proclaimed that he was going to get back with his ex-wife. Emma's fight with her sister made me need to take a breather because of how horrific it was, and the love bombing at the end threw me for a loop too.

Some neutral side notes:
1) I love that their names are Emma and Charlie. I adore any books where the main characters have, for lack of a better term, basic names.
2) I did not read The Bodyguard, but fans of it will be pleased to see the couple pop up.
3) It threw me off that some of the famous people were made up but some weren't. Was Meryl Streep needed?
4) There were a LOT of fourth wall breaks. I feel like the tenses kept switching too. Distracting for some, good for others.
5) Cuthbert was a 10/10 addition.

Thank you to NetGalley for an eARC in exchange for my honest, slightly disorganized review!

Katherine Center is an auto buy author for me. She writes books that simultaneously make you laugh and make you feel. The Rom-Commers is the perfect example of this and may be her best work yet. Our leading lady Emma Wheeler - romance lover and dutiful daughter - has spent the last nine years putting her screenwriting career on hold to provide around the clock care for her father. When the opportunity to write a romcom with THE Charlie Yates is presented to her and coincides with her sister being available to takeover the caregiving, she flies to LA with the goal to make her dream a reality. What happens next is a chain of events that neither of them expected and poses the question of what a romantic comedy really is, do love stories even matter, and are big romantic gestures the peak of all romcoms?

This book was SO fun. It was one of the most adorable rom coms I've ever read. I was sucked in from the beginning and I stayed up until 1am to finish it because I COULDN'T. PUT. IT. DOWN. I've always loved Katherine Center books but this one swept me away!

Read this book if you like:
-grumpy x sunshine
-books about writers
-one liners
-LOL funny
-pet guinea pig
-forced proximity

The Rom-Commers reads like the very best of a Nancy Meyers script: two screenwriters, forced together to fix the horrid rewrite of a Hollywood classic, teaching each other how to love along the way. Emma’s struggling career needs this break; Charlie’s needs a dash of vulnerability and a dose of reality. Can they get past their differences to write an amazing movie together?

I love that Katherine Center is always going to make me laugh and cry. I love that despite the Hollywood setting, the story is relatable and funny. This is a great read for anyone feeling stuck and uninspired. This is a story of dreamers and going for those dreams.

Thank you to @netgalley and @katherinecenter for an advance copy of this delightful book!

A rom-com about rom-coms? Yes please!

Charlie Yates is a successful screenwriter well loved in the industry. He writes scripts about aliens, zombies, fighting, but not rom-coms. So when his newest project, a rom-com inspired by the classic It Happened One Night, is a total disaster, his agent calls in a ghostwriter - Emma.

Emma has long been obsessed with Charlie, but with a sick father to care for, she’s hesitant to take this opportunity. When she finally does, she discovers working with Charlie is going to be more work than she could have imagined.

The premise of The Rom-commers is so fun with so much potential! I just wish there was more character and plot development. Neither Emma nor Charlie were really likable characters, and I never really saw when their love story started developing. I had to fill in a lot of gaps and suspend a lot of belief. Also, Charlie is a walking red flag 🚩

I also thought the way the story was written, first person narration that occasionally addressed the reader, seemed off. Almost like the author wouldn’t commit to one style or the other. It always took me by surprise whenever Emma would break the fourth wall and address me as the reader.

I think this story could have landed better for me if it was told from alternating perspectives, both Emma’s and Charlie’s, to get better understanding of Charlie’s motivations.

Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for an advanced copy of Katherine Center’s The Rom-commers.

Another great addition to Katherine Center's collection of novels. LIkeable characters and a nod to the great rom-coms of the past. Great summer beach read. If you have liked the author's earlier novels, youl'll love this one too.

I received an ARC via NetGalley.

Emma is the queen of writing romcoms. When her idol Charlie needs assistance with his new project, Emma is thrilled to be given the opportunity to lend a hand. But Charlie doesn't seem all that keen about the project. Can Emma change the way he thinks about romcoms?

I will read anything Katherine Center writes. Her books are so easy to read with her captivating writing style. The audiobook was great to listen to and I was all in, rooting for our couple to find their way to be together. I appreciated the backstory about Emma's father and loved his own little ending too. This is definitely one you want to have on your list. It releases early June.

What a treat! An amazing beach read for this summer. The ROM-COMMERS is a fun and lovely novel. The characters are so real and relatable. I loved it so much.

I loved this book so much! I don’t know why romance coms always bring me to tears lately, but this one was a doozy. There was a lot of loss suffered by both characters, but I loved the way they over came it. I loved Emma’s dad more than anything, especially his speech at the end. Sonja heart warming and inspiring.

Emma was fantastic. I loved her attitude, and how, like her father, she didn’t let the tragedy win. She needed some reminders to truly live instead of just existing, but I loved how she grew throughout the story and stood up for herself and what she wanted.

I loved Charlie. He was as unique and cool as Emma said he was. While his attitude was maybe not the best at the beginning, he, too, grew and changed for the better.

I loved how Charlie and Emma came together—how he was there for her, how she was there for him, and how they slowly fell in love (even if it was faster than his statistic, which was slightly hilarious, btw.)

This was an amazing story and I’m so glad I took a chance to read it. I’ll definitely be reading more by this author soon.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.