Aspiring twenty-something writer Natalie is presented as insecure, shallow, selfish, and immature. Some is her age, some is her upbringing--her mother unhappily settled in not one, but two marriages, and outright tells Natalie that she (Mom) is not special enough to attract a high-caliber man so she must settle for someone inferior who will put her on a pedestal, instead, and so must her daughter face the same fate. So, Natalie remains unfulfilled, working odd jobs (none with benefits) while dating sufferable and pretentious young artists and writers and working on her own Great American Novel. Her best friend and roommate Gabby's surprise engagement to Angus, the goofy and exuberant heir to a futon empire, throws Natalie for a loop. At Gabby's twenty-fifth birthday party where the proposal dominates, Natalie wallows and spends most of the evening getting to know Rob, Angus's best friend. Her and Rob's immediate rapport is a mild balm to her jealousy that she won't be number one in Gabby's life anymore, and the suspicion that Gabby is settling. Rob is cute and smart and their banter is solid, but Natalie's on the East Coast and Rob on the West, and Natalie hears he's not a one-night stand type of guy, so any romantic prospect seems unlikely.

When Natalie and Rob meet again for the wedding, he's aloof, and finally reveals it's because she's written a character presented in an unfavorable light that closely resembles Angus. Rob's loyalty results in a vengeful 1-star review, which opens a floodgate of other dissenters and, down the road, results in Natalie not being able to secure a home for her second manuscript. Their animosity is realistically established, but they still need to work together on wedding planning, and eventually, god-parenting, and Rob does stand up admirably in every other way.

The commentary on writing and the publishing industry of the 20teens is honest (men's fiction is just fiction, while women's stories are "women's fiction" at best, and "chick lit" at worst); it's honest but comes off bitter. Natalie does finally publish, but only friends and family are giving her 4- and 5-star reviews (and at her request); Gabby is too busy with wedding planning to even read it.

The author relies greatly on exposition rather than action to tell most of the story, presented in year-and-half intervals. The first ten chapters are solely Natalie's point of view, with an abrupt switch to Rob's point of view, then subsequent chapters are are more omniscient and even bring in Angus's point of view at one point, and then switches to Rob's fiancée Zuri in a chapter flashing back to her choices that led to their breakup. The lack of clear consist voice, structure and timeline is frustrating and distracting and doesn't serve the growth of the main characters. Also disappointing is the failure to add any Jewish details or identity at all: Natalie's surname is an ancient Ashkenazi Jewish name, as Hankin can be, as well. Gabby and Angus's home explodes with Christmas at their holiday housewarming, which annoys Rob, but Natalie neither embraces or shares any religious/cultural background beyond enjoying the lights--odd when the New York setting is fairly Jewish.

One-Star Romance had some vivid and humorous scenes, like Gabby and Angus's wedding, and some poignant ones, when Rob comes to his father's rescue during an episode of dementia. Both Rob and Natalie have other romantic relationships and struggle with their relationships with their parents. While I do understand some of the unlikability of the characters was to show how people in their twenties can be and to establish a touchstone for character's growth, it ultimately took a long time to become invested the characters, the slow-pace of their anticipated romance, or the styling of the narrative. The second half of the book was MUCH better than the first half, and ultimately I'm glad I stuck with it, but I was tempted to ditch it and leave a 2-star review less than 20% through. One-Star Romance struggles to achieve what writers like Emily Henry and Ashley Poston seem to do effortlessly, weaving a construct that makes the conflicts and issues feel more integrated. It was difficult not to read Natalie's literary aspirations as the author's, even though Natalie is accused (rightfully!) of writing too close to home. I also got a sense that the novel wanted to be better than just a rom-com, which feels dismissive to the romance novel industry and it's fans. This is all either brilliantly meta, or just beyond me; I didn't think it worked strongly either as literary fiction or as a romance novel.

I received a free advance reader's review copy of #One-StarRomance via #NetGalley, courtesy of Berkley.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance review copy in exchange for my honest review!

Okay! I don't think that I'm exaggerating whatsoever when I say that this is, quite literally, a perfect romance novel. I love a romantic comedy! I love a slow burn! I love an "it was always you"! I love rivals to lovers! Lovable characters and people you want to root for who actually feel fleshed out. A story that feels rich and full. I laughed! I cried! Laura Hankin, you are now an autobuy author for me from now until forever. WHAT A BOOK!

While this is indeed a romance, it's really a story about Natalie figuring out live in her mid to late twenties. It's about navigating how friendships shift and change, what to do when the path we thought we were on isn't what plays out, and managing the expectations set by others. Natalie's story is told over a series of encounters with Rob. Their first encounter comes when they are in their best friends' wedding party. The title comes from Rob giving Natalie's book a one-star review on Goodreads (and also, it's an odd experience to then leave a review of a book with this plot point on Goodreads!), and Natalie feeling a certain kind of way about that. I did really like that this centered Natalie and Rob's quests to figure out where they belonged and what they wanted to be doing in life. Thanks to NetGalley and publisher for the look at this June 2024 release!

Were it up to me, I'd probably change the title to something with a little more...punch? But. That's literally my only complaint about this often touching always witty story that had more to do with friendship and the bonds therein than romantic relationships.

Spent a delightful weekend in the company of this book. The writing was absorbing, smart but not show-offy, and empathetic to its characters. Loved this book, which is as much about growing up and negotiating friendship as you do as it is about romance. Five stars.

This book was super cute, and I had a lot of fun reading it! I absolutely loved the premise. Right before her best friend's wedding, romance author Natalie learns the best man to her maid of honor is none other than Rob, a man who wrote a one-star review of her new book on Goodreads. Talk about uncomfortable.

The story follows this opposites-attract pair through the years as they run into each other at different events. I really enjoyed the structure of the novel and watching these characters and their relationship develop over time.

I hadn't read any of Laura Hankin's books before, but I'll definitely be checking out more of her work in the future.

Thank you to Berkley for the ARC, which was provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

In the realm of contemporary romance, Laura Hankin's "One-Star Romance" emerges as a refreshing and poignant tale that delves into the complexities of love, friendship, and the transformative power of second chances. Natalie, a free-spirited artist, and Rob, a meticulous academic, find themselves thrown together as maid of honor and best man in their best friends' wedding. Despite their starkly contrasting personalities, an undeniable chemistry ignites between them. However, their budding connection is abruptly severed when Natalie discovers that Rob has written a scathing one-star review of her debut novel. The revelation sends shockwaves through Natalie's confidence, leaving her questioning her artistic abilities. Rob, grappling with the consequences of his impulsive act, realizes the depth of his feelings for Natalie and sets out to make amends. As they navigate the tumultuous waters of their evolving relationship, Natalie and Rob encounter a series of life-changing events that test their resilience and force them to confront their own vulnerabilities. Through heartwarming moments of shared laughter and poignant instances of emotional turmoil, Hankin skillfully weaves a tapestry of love, loss, and the enduring bonds of friendship. The characters' growth and development are meticulously crafted, allowing readers to empathize with their struggles and root for their eventual happiness. Hankin's writing is both insightful and witty, capturing the nuances of human interaction with remarkable accuracy. "One-Star Romance" is a delightful and thought-provoking read that explores the complexities of modern relationships and the transformative power of love. Laura Hankin's ability to blend humor, drama, and emotional depth makes this novel a standout in the genre. Readers will find themselves captivated by the journey of Natalie and Rob as they navigate the ups and downs of life, ultimately discovering that even the most imperfect love stories can be rewritten into beautiful masterpieces.

It's evident, my fellow book enthusiasts! I relished "Happy You Know It," and I absolutely adored "Daydreamers"! So, who could possibly prevent me from eagerly diving into another Hankin novel? This time, she's decided to whip up a delightful rom-com tailored precisely to my cravings—featuring the irresistible enemies-to-lovers trope. It's a theme that falls somewhere between the bane of my existence and a guilty pleasure I simply cannot resist.

Buckle up for a rollercoaster of hilarity, heartache, and unexpected romance in Laura Hankin's latest gem, "One-Star Romance." Hankin, known for her impeccable sense of humor, delivers a narrative perfectly tailored for the millennial reader, where jokes and dialogues seamlessly blend into an honest and relatable storytelling experience.

The premise is both cringe-worthy and utterly captivating: Natalie, an aspiring writer, and Rob, a rigid academic, find themselves as reluctant maid of honor and best man at their best friends' wedding. The twist? Rob had given Natalie's debut novel a brutal one-star review on Goodreads. Cue the awkwardness and tension.

While Hankin's previous works leaned towards women's fiction with a romantic subplot, "One-Star Romance" takes center stage as a full-blown romantic comedy. The characters might not win you over immediately, but that's precisely the point. Throughout the narrative, they undergo significant growth, and the well-executed time jumps help in showcasing their evolution.

This book is a delightful summer read, offering a perfect blend of romance, humor, and deeper reflections on friendship, adulthood, and the inevitability of change. The story navigates through different time periods, spanning years, flawlessly capturing the characters' growth and the dynamics of their relationships. Hankin weaves a tale that feels incredibly authentic, exploring themes of identity, career pursuits, enduring friendships, and the complexities of maturing in your mid-twenties.

The heart of "One-Star Romance" lies in its portrayal of human experiences. Natalie and Rob, the main characters, navigate the ups and downs of life, making decisions that not only shape their relationship but also impact those around them. The novel beautifully unfolds through poignant moments and witty dialogues, delving into conversations about chasing dreams, long-term friendships, and the inevitable The narrative shines a spotlight on Natalie, the struggling writer, and Rob, the career academic, as they grapple with their own dreams and ambitions. Despite initial clashes, their undying love for their best friends keeps pulling them back together, creating a dynamic that is both bitter and prideful.

The tension between Natalie and Rob reaches its peak when they are forced to spend more time together due to unforeseen circumstances. As truths unravel, the story takes a poignant turn, revealing that sometimes, our harshest critics can also be our most ardent admirers.

Overall, "One-Star Romance" is a well-crafted tale that seamlessly combines humor, romance, and deeper reflections on life's complexities. Laura Hankin's witty and heartfelt writing ensures that this book is not just a romance but a celebration of friendship, growth, and the beautifully messy journey of being human. Get ready to laugh, cry, and cheer for Natalie and Rob as they navigate the tumultuous path of love, one star at a time.

This four-star read is a must for anyone seeking an entertaining and thought-provoking escape into the world of modern romance.shifts that come with growing up.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for providing me this heartwarming book's digital reviewer copy in exchange for my honest opinions. I wholeheartedly enjoyed it!

One-Star Romance was an easy 5 star read for me! I really enjoyed The Daydreams, so my bar was high, but Laura Hankin certainly delivered with this slow burning romcom. I loved getting to know these characters, and I was particularly delighted by Hankin’s exploration of the way friendships grow and change over time.

BookTok was right—this was a perfect premise!

Thank you to NetGalley and to the publisher for the ARC!

From reading some of the other reviews, I feel like I missed something here. I did not have the same reaction as other readers - unfortunately, this book was not a hit with me. it felt very (very) slow and the characters were hard to connect with. As one reviewer mentioned, the characters were not meant to be likable (?) at first... but I just couldn't get past those tough parts. Maybe they did turn things around and become more relatable, but for the most part Natalie felt like a complainer and Rob was easily forgettable. I'm sure - as many of the reviews show - that this will be a book some love. It just wasn't for me. Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for the ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.

I read through chapter 7 (15%) and put it down, and when I picked it up a week later, I couldn’t remember a thing. Unfortunately not memorable. I reviewed chapter 1, and the writing is solidly okay. It felt very generic, and it will probably be an average three star, four for the right readers.

Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley for the ARC.

I loved this book. So fun and entertaining. I enjoyed the time lapses that happened. Helped cover a lot of time in a quick way.

This is my fourth Laura Hankin novel and I like to give the author credit for helping me branch out and try new genres way back with Happy & You Know It in 2020. Prior to that, I was strictly a thriller and historical fiction reader. Hankin showed me that reading something that isn’t about crime or war could be… fun! Who knew!?

Anyway, I love Hankin’s sense of humor which really shines in all of her novels. Her writing is perfectly geared to a millennial reader without the jokes and dialogue being too over the top or forced like a lot of other books. It all just comes across as totally honest and relatable.

One-Star Romance has a hilarious premise: your best friend is getting married, you’re the MOH, and the best man who you’re stuck with for the weekend gave your debut novel a one star review on goodreads. Yikes.

To me, this felt like a full blown romantic comedy whereas Hankin’s other novels were more women’s fiction with a romance b-plot. I enjoyed seeing this side of the author and it was still a really unique story.

I will be honest and admit that the characters are hard to like at first, but THIS IS THE POINT! We see them both grow and evolve and the time jumps helped a lot.

Overall, I think this will be the perfect summer read. A fun romance with some heavier subject matter (and a time jump to pandemic times, you’ve been warned) that explores themes of friendship, growing up, and growing apart.

Thank you to the publisher for allowing me to be an early reader! All opinions are my own.

this was so beautifully done! a great cast of characters that follows a story of growth, change, and friendship. if there's only one way to describe this book, it would be humans being human. the characters, especially our main ones natalie and rob, are moving through the motions of life; we follow them as they make decisions that impact the trajectory of their own personal relationship along with the relationships of other characters in the novel as well.

one star romance is broken down into certain time periods that span years and while i find that, that can be hard to do well, this was certainly not the case. we really get to see the growth that these characters go through because of those time jumps. the writing is well done, witty, and incredibly heartfelt. there are conversations on identity, career outlook, chasing your "dreams" (whatever that means to you), long-term friendships, maturing and change and what that looks like in your mid-twenties as you enter your early thirties. i related and connected so deeply with these characters; while the story does follow an overarching romance, friendship is really at the center here and is easily the best part of the novel.

this is my first laura hankin book, but it won't be my last! im excited to pick up more of her work very very soon.

Thank you @berkleypub @berkleyromance for this NetGalley ARC of One Star Romance!

I was a big fan of The Daydreams, so I was excited about this one. And it did not disappoint!

Y’all know I am not typically a fan of the miscommunication trope. However, I think we can allow it when they have only met like 3 times and each was increasingly disastrous 😂

Above all, Nat and Rob are ride-or-dies, and honestly I respect that so much.

🌟🌟🌟🌟✨

Natalie is an aspiring (and struggling) writer. Rob is a career academic. Their best friends are a seemingly unlikely pairing that are madly in love - and despite their own differences, Nat and Rob hit it off as well when they meet at their engagement party.

As maid of honor and best man, the two are tossed together repeatedly. At first, Natalie is optimistic - until she realizes that Rob wrote a one-star review for her new novel, and the tension between the two comes to a head when she confronts him on it.

Both stung by the barbs thrown and eager to never see each other again, the two part ways. But one other thing they have in common is their fierce and undying love for their best friends - a devotion which brings the two back into each others lives again and again throughout the years, each interaction tinged with bitterness and pride.

But when tragedy strikes, the two are forced together for the longest duration yet; and the truths that come out show everyone that sometimes our harshest critics are also our biggest fans.

If there has ever been a single book that has EVER made me believe that LOVE like this, in the books could ever exists or truly lasts forever and ever, THIS IS IT.

I enjoyed One-Star Romance! I liked that the story took place over different years. It was nice to see how the characters developed over time. As someone in their late twenties (yikes..when did this happen?), I could relate to Natalie and Rob's struggles. Even though Natalie got on my nerves at points, I thought the author did a wonderful job creating realistic and flawed characters. I didn't mind the slow romance between Natalie and Rob. I liked seeing their relationship develop over the years. The only critique I had for this book was the random Zuri chapter. Although I enjoyed reading what happened with her, it felt out of place. If you're a fan of Emily Henry and Carley Fortune's work, give this book a shot! Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley for the ARC.

I really liked this! It was deeper than I thought it would be. I was expecting a silly romcom. It made me cry and laugh! The chemistry between the main characters was sizzling!

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for allowing me to read this arc in exchange for an honest review!

I was expecting a fun rom-com and then was almost reduced to tears because this was surprisingly profound? Like, this was deep and introspective and quite meaningful to me as an adult around the same age as these characters who has experienced way too many of the same doubts and worries.

This story takes place over the course of nearly a decade and covers pretty much every interaction between Natalie and Rob due solely to their individual best friends marrying each other. Every up and down these two have in their own spheres is either a warm hug or a gut punch that feels so real. Career successes and failures, dating and engagements and devastating splits, friendship break-ups, navigating life as your friends grow up around you and you're still stuck in a rut.

Don't get me wrong, this has a happy ending, but there's one hell of an emotional and heartwarming journey to take first of two characters pushing each other to be their best selves. Highly recommend for anyone who enjoys being destroyed by books like those of Emily Henry. And thank you so much to the publisher for the early copy!

The chemistry between the protagonists was palpable, evolving from initial animosity to a simmering tension that kept me eagerly turning pages. The supporting cast of friends adds an extra layer of comedy and sincerity, acting as both unwitting matchmakers and witnesses to the protagonists' evolving relationship.