I'm very sad to say that I didn't enjoy this book as much as Center's other books. I never felt much chemistry between Emma and Charlie. I felt like I was being told they had feelings for each other but I never actually believed it. The lack of honest communication was incredibly frustrating.

I also had a huge issue with the argument Emma and her sister have near the end, wherein her sister apologizes very sincerely and sweetly and is graciously forgiven by Emma and then EMMA NEVER APOLOGIZES BACK. And the thing she said was equally as hurtful and terrible. That drove me crazy and made me dislike Emma. It felt like she was a self-pitying martyr who was owed something and I did not care for it.

And I'll just briefly mention the fact that the author referred to cellos as having frets. PSA: Cellos do not, in fact, have frets. This bothered me almost as much as Emma not apologizing, but I know it won't bother most people. 😂 I sincerely hope it gets caught and fixed between ARCs and final copies, but I won't be surprised if it doesn't.

What DID I like? Emma's relationship with her sister (up until that argument near the end) and her dad. Emma trying to help Charlie grow up and move on from his past. The fun things Center includes that make me laugh - she's great at humor. Emma's dad's wisdom and outlook on life.

I'm certain this was a case of "just not for me" as this book is getting great reviews from other people and I've loved Center's other books! I'll definitely still read her next one.

You know when you meet someone new and you have that feeling where you just click and know you're going to be friends? I had a similar feeling to that when reading this book. It vibrated with personality and was just an absolute joy to read. I loved the main character from the beginning and related so much to her taking on the responsibilities of the world and feeling like she had to do everything perfectly. When she gets the opportunity of a lifetime and ends up leaving her father in her sister's care she clashes with her sister's approach, which is much more carefree--and joy-filled. The whole book is an adventure in learning to live again -- the male MC's cancer is in remission and he hasn't written in years. Now, he has to learn to write again --and with someone for the first time--and in a genre he doesn't even like (romance). The banter between the two main characters is spectacular. The book is filled with laugh-out-loud moments and moments of intense emotions. If you love romance, banter, stories about personal growth, grumpy x sunshine, or learning to find joy again, you'll absolutely love this book. I can't recommend it enough!

The Rom-Commers is a closed door romance between two writers rewriting a screenplay. It does have some trigger warnings so check for those, there are very heavy topics covered so this isnt as light as the cover makes it seem. But I really enjoyed it, I looked forward to reading more each day. I liked the characters even though I wish they would talk to each other a little bit more. And the ending was very rom-com.

I really enjoy Katherine Center's books and typically find them to be 4-5 star reads. This one didn't hit quite the same for me, perhaps being my least favorite that I've read so more of a 3.5 star. Don't get me wrong it was a nice read, but just felt a little too perfect or something. I really love her stories because they are typically a little 'messy' and have a nice ending. I'm not sure if it was the characters or the plot but it was maybe a little too cheesy for me personally. I like that her stories always have some sort of hardship, they make them more relatable and I enjoy seeing the growth in the characters. I don't feel I really have a favorite character, maybe her Dad? I like that he made his life the best he could and tried to live life to the fullest despite his accident.

Emma Wheeler has long dreamed of being rom-com screenwriter, but her dreams were sidelined when she became a caretaker for her dad after an accident. When her friend and agent offers her a once-in-a-lifetime chance to help superstar screenwriter Charlie Yates rewrite his rom-com, Emma’s sister takes over caretaking duties and pushes her to go. Charlie has no use for her help, but when she rips his screenplay to shreds, he admits that Emma might know what she’s doing. For the next six weeks, Emma teaches Charlie about the art of the rom-com, but it turns out the “rom” may not just be in the pages of their screenplay.

Readers who are fans of rom-coms will love Emma’s passion for the genre and all the ways she convinces Charlie of their value. Katherine Center always builds great tension and creates characters you want to see happy (and together). While The Bodyguard still probably holds my top spot of Center’s books (those characters make a few cameos here), I loved the premise of this and flew through it.

I wanted to like this book a lot more than I did, and while it was still above average by far, it just fell a little flat for my expectations. I’ve absolutely loved Center’s last few books and this just wasn’t quite as good (read:still great). The premise was really cute but I just felt Emma too two dimensional for too long. Overall 3.5/5 because I think the third act wrapped up well, albeit predictable to a degree

Always a fan of KC’s books. I love the human element she always brings, and the wisdom that comes exploring and then writing stories that include life’s various challenges. This book has some hard-hitting moments but also so much humor and levity. Without spoiling, I think the ending was really beautifully. Thank you to the author and publisher for this ARC (though, I did also purchase and read the BOTM edition). :)

Honestly, I still recommend the paperback version for those into shelfies. It's got sprayed edges! Gorgeous endpapers! A cute cover! I love romcoms. They are my sunshine on cloudy days. Having recently finished The Bodyguard, I already had Things You Save In A Fire in my physical TBR and Hello Stranger in my Kindle TBR, I was pretty excited about this romcom about a romcom writer.

The players:
Emma Wheeler: roughly 28, Emma is an amateur screenwriter who had to pass a prestigious opportunity to become a caretaker for her father after a tragic accident derails her life.
She's also QUIRKY. You can tell because she's got out-of-control curly red hair! It's mentioned roughly 75 times.

Charlie Yates: a very successful screenwriter, with loads of awards stored in a drawer in his huge house. He specializes in everything BUT romcoms.
She calls him by his full name no less than 137 times. WHO DOES THAT?!?!
Charlie is an ASSHOLE with NO redeeming qualities and a tendency to throw money at his problems. He's verbally abusive to Emma at nearly every available opportunity, and I think we're supposed to forgive and forget because the "c" card gets pulled. The resolution is the absolute worst thing I've ever read, and I just couldn't suspend my disbelief enough to imagine it without snickering.
Emma had so many opportunities to be a strong, independent woman and seize her moment to make her own dreams come true. Having her put up with his insults and trying to fix him was PAINFUL.

Everyone needed therapy.

2.5 stars.

If you're looking for a delightful escape into a world of love, laughter, and a few tears, "The Rom-Commers" by Katherine Center is the perfect pick. I absolutely adored this book and gave it a well-deserved 5 out of 5 stars. The plot is engaging, filled with charming moments and witty dialogue that keep you hooked from start to finish. Center’s writing style is both fun and enjoyable, making it easy to get lost in the story.

Beyond its light-hearted exterior, "The Rom-Commers" also delves into heartfelt and emotional territory, exploring themes of love, loss, and personal growth. The characters are well-developed and relatable, each bringing their unique quirks and depth to the narrative. This book is a perfect blend of humor and heart, leaving you with a warm, satisfied feeling by the end. If you’re a fan of contemporary romance with a touch of emotional depth, don’t miss out on this gem!

Katherine Center’s The Rom-Commers is a delightful addition to the romantic comedy genre, blending humor, heartfelt moments, and an insightful look into the world of screenwriting. The novel follows Emma Wheeler, a passionate writer who gets the chance to work with her idol, Charlie Yates, on a rom-com screenplay. However, the reality of the job is far from what she expected.

The story centers on Emma Wheeler, a writer with a deep passion for romantic comedies, who is given an incredible opportunity to collaborate with her idol, Charlie Yates. However, what should have been a dream come true quickly turns into a challenging and comedic journey. Charlie, an acclaimed screenwriter, is now struggling with writer’s block and an unexpectedly dreadful screenplay. The clash between Emma’s idealistic views on romance and Charlie’s cynical approach fuels the novel’s central tension.

Emma is a character with depth and resilience. Her backstory of caring for her ailing father adds layers to her personality and motivations. Her decision to take on the job despite her fears and anxieties about her own life’s direction showcases her determination and growth. As the story progresses, Emma’s wit and charm, along with her deep knowledge of the rom-com genre, make her an engaging narrator. Her direct interactions with the reader and her reflections on the genre’s conventions provide a clever and humorous perspective on her experiences.

Charlie Yates, on the other hand, is a more complex and enigmatic character. His initial reluctance and disdain for rom-coms create an intriguing dynamic between him and Emma. As they work together, Charlie’s transformation and the gradual unveiling of his vulnerabilities add depth to his character. The evolution of their professional relationship into a personal connection is handled with a blend of humor and sincerity.

The development of Emma and Charlie’s romance is both sweet and believable. The gradual shift from a contentious working relationship to a deep, emotional connection is handled with the right balance of humor and sincerity. The banter and chemistry between them are reminiscent of classic rom-coms, making their story a satisfying and engaging read.

Overall, The Rom-Commers is a heartwarming and entertaining novel that offers a unique perspective on the romantic comedy genre. Katherine Center’s clever storytelling and endearing characters make this book a standout read. For fans of romantic comedies and those seeking a fun and thoughtful summer read, this book is a must-pick.

This was another great book by Katherine Center. It was a cute, romantic and hilarious story that was difficult to put down. The main characters Emma and Charlie are stubborn but likable, and the secondary characters really add to the enjoyment of the story. All the emotions are touched upon from the very start to the end of the book.

The Rom-Commers was so fun and such a good time! However, it also dealt with serious topics, still managing to keep a fun, rom-commy energy throughout the book.

I loved the writing and found myself highlighting constantly. The Rom-Commers is EXTREMELY quotable. It was also interesting how Katherine Center summarized different events and sections of time in the book. I don’t know if what I mean makes sense, but it was a different kind of writing than I’m used to seeing, and I enjoyed that it helped keep the pace steady and quick in my opinion.
I also really enjoyed the main characters (most of the time, but we’ll get to that). I loved the humor in this book as well—whether it was something outright hilarious or just slightly silly, I was giggling and smiling throughout the book. It was also interesting to see how a script came together.

What I DIDN’T like and kept this from being five stars, was the ending (to be fair, I’m pretty picky about book endings). Not to reveal too much, but basically from the point Emma went home til the end was for lack of a better word, weird. I felt like there were a couple questions left unanswered and loose ends. The way everything wrapped up felt a little too convenient and a little too corny for me.

That said, this was my first Katherine Center book, and I’m excited to start her backlist!

4.5 stars
I read this in the beginning of July when I was deep into a romcom mood, and The Rom-Commers hit the spot. Emma is sunshine, but she's been through a lot. Charlie is a grump and in total denial of his feelings. They're both screenwriters, and when a book involves writers, it's immediately being added to my TBR. On top of that, it's set in Los Angeles, which if you know me, you know I love a book set in my hometown. The Rom-Commers checked a lot of boxes for me before I even read it, and then went on to exceed my expectations when I read it. Katherine Center really knows how to balance deep undertones/topics with comedic relief. She also has a way with words. For example: "You had to maximize joy when it fluttered into your life. You had to honor it. And savor it. And not stomp it to death by reminding everyone of everything you’d lost." Okay Katherine, read me to filth. I've read The Bodyguard, Hello Stranger, and now The Rom-Commers, and I have to say The Rom-Commers is my new favorite.

Thank you Netgalley and Katherine Center for the advanced digital copy.

The Rom-Commers is out now!

A sometimes-meta, always-enchanting love letter to rom-coms, Katherine Center's latest romance novel stars a jaded, lonely screenwriter & and an aspiring writer who’s put her Hollywood dreams on hold for her family… until now. The screenwriter's latest script, an alleged rom-com, is a tragic mess, but his pride won't allow him to ask for help. When the aspiring writer's agent brings them together, she tries to show the sexy, grumpy screenwriter the way to an HEA...but can they find their own? Center’s trademark belief in the power of kindness & choosing happiness authentically shine.

Katherine Center does not disappoint and I had no qualms about pre-ordering this book. It is about Emma, who is hired to help her favorite screenwriter, Charlie, perfect a rom com screenplay. Emma is the caregiver for her father who has a chronic illness after a tragic accident. Because of what happened to her parents, Emma is always worried about what might happen if she leaves home or does anything for herself. Meanwhile, Charlie has written an awful screenplay because he doesn’t believe in love after his ex wife left him. Emma wants to work with him and agrees to the deal, even though when she meets Charlie he doesn’t quite live up to her expectations. This enemies to lovers story was sad, touching, and moving, as well as hopeful, as all Katherine Center’s books tend to be! I loved the two main characters and the way they helped each other grow. There is a cancer story line involved in this book, as well as the loss of a parent.

Unfortunately I just don't think Center's books are for *me* - but so many people love them and I highly recommend checking them out!

In this one I had several eye rolling moments and that ending? HARD NO. So weird and unbelievable to me.

Such a fun book! Enemies to lovers/close proximity novel. I loved Emma and Charlie and was cheering them on from the start. There are also great secondary characters. Flawed characters, some parts are heavy but others will have you laughing. All around a good read. 5 stars.

Emma was a promising screenwriter when her father was badly injured in a rock-climbing accident and she became his primary caregiver. Years later, her ex-boyfriend, a screenwriting agent, offers her a once-in-1000-lifetimes opportunity to co-write a rom-com with her screenwriting idol and Hollywood crush, Charlie Yates. Yates writes award-winning films in every genre EXCEPT romantic comedies. Though their first meeting doesn’t go as planned—it turns out he doesn’t actually want to write with anyone else, let alone someone without a resume—he finds her passion for the genre intriguing. As the genre begins to win him over, so does Emma’s charm.

I really liked Emma and her arc of trying to invest in herself and her professional success after deferring her dreams for years. The book is told in the first person, and Emma is a fun narrator to hang out with. While she’s generally a sunshine character, I enjoyed seeing how she navigated the more challenging aspects of her life.

On the other hand, Charlie is a jerk when he first meets Emma. I totally understand his frustration: he did not invite this woman to his house!!! However, I can’t get on board with the way he demeans Emma. Even after he invites her to stay, he continues to be condescending. Charlie’s mood swings took me out of the romance and made it harder to root for them.

Thanks to @stmartinspress and @netgalley for the opportunity to read and review the Digital ARC of THE ROM-COMMERS.

This is my second title from the author. I loved <i>Hello Stranger</i> and this one has similar vibes with the quirky main character. Definitely read this one if you liked that one and vice versa.

Things I liked: Emma's first person perspective was fun to read. I liked how it felt like she was recounting everything to the reader. I enjoyed the behind-the-scenes of how a writer might work. The banter with Charlie felt natural and I loved how they fit into each other's lives. Emma's family brought depth to the story too.

Things I didn't like: It felt too similar to the main character of her previous book. I didn't enjoy how some conflicts occurred and were resolved.

I will forgive most of the negatives though, because this book got me out of my reading rut and I devoured it surprisingly quickly. 3.5-4 stars rounded up.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.

I have to admit that I'm not normally a huge fan of Katherine Center's books. I've read quite a few based on the recommendations of friends, but they never quite hit right for me. However, I really enjoyed <i>The Rom-Commers</i>. The characters felt more nuanced than others of hers, and there was a good tension between them. I still was frustrated that another woman is always the bad guy in her books, but it wasn't as obnoxious as it was in other books (although I still wish she'd leave that tired trope behind).

Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC of this book.