Thanks to Viking Books for Young Readers and Netgalley for providing me with an eARC of this book!

This story follows Caleb and Emma, who used to be best friends but had a falling out several years ago. In present day, they both start liking a girl (Juliet), so they decide to make it a competition to see who can romance her first.

Unfortunately, I think this concept was my biggest problem with the book. First of all, it made me immediately feel kinda icky. Caleb and Emma sometimes talked about Juliet like she was a prize to be won, which I didn’t like. They admitted it was a bad thing to do, and other people called them out on it too, and they apologized to Juliet for it, so it’s not like the book is glorifying this act, but still – I wish it’d been done a little differently.

I think the issue is that their reasons for “liking” Juliet didn’t feel… right. They were both instantly attracted to Juliet for absolutely no reason. All she did was be clumsy and pretty and Caleb and Emma were both like “Omg she’s amazing I wanna date her! 😍”. Juliet does absolutely nothing and those 2 immediately fall for her. I don’t get it, but perhaps I’m just too ace for this (though Caleb is supposedly in the ace-spec too, and was instantly attracted to Juliet after 1 conversation, so idk. Everybody feels attraction differently, though; I’m not trying to police anyone’s sexuality!).

They then spent half of the book constantly talking about how adorable Juliet is. And like, yeah, it’s kinda funny to see these 2 simp for the new girl and talk about how she’s so cute they want to smash their own faces into the ground, ha ha, but like… goddamn it. They couldn’t go 5 pages without mentioning how perfect Juliet is. It started feeling exaggerated and cartoonish, especially given the fact that they were instantly into her, for basically no reason.

Caleb and Emma’s individual romances with Juliet were definitely the weakest part of this book. I understand that these romances were just a plot device for the *real* romance of this story (the one between Caleb and Emma themselves), but I just wish their relationships with Juliet had been done differently. I think this would’ve worked better if we had more buildup for Juliet’s relationships with the MCs. Instead of having both Caleb and Emma *instantly* fall for Juliet, we should’ve gotten a bit of development in each of those relationships: 1) so we could actually get some reason for them to be falling for her, and 2) so it didn’t feel so weird that they’re competing for her love. If they had developed friendships, then actually started liking Juliet after getting to know her, then found out the other likes her too, and only then decided to compete, this whole thing would’ve felt less… icky, because there was some actual relationships already established with Juliet. Instead, it’s just insta love + using this poor girl as a pawn by competing for her feelings. And, sure, they acknowledge that this isn’t a good thing to do, but they do it anyways. The author could’ve definitely made it less questionable by better developing Caleb and Emma’s relationships with Juliet.



Regarding Caleb and Emma’s romance: it was very clear from the start that they still harbored feelings for each other, even though their friendship had ended years prior (apparently on a very bad note). I enjoyed learning more about their past, and I liked seeing them both looking out for each other, even though they were no longer friends. The idea that they’ll always be each other’s person, no matter what, was really sweet and well developed.

Unfortunately, though, (and I hate to say this)… I didn’t feel anything about their romance. 🧍 I’M SO SAAAADDDDD. 😭 They were so sweet – I especially liked this part near the end: “When Emma left my life, she took half of me with her. For years, there’s been this emptiness lurking under my skin, in the vessels around my heart, in the essence of my soul. Whether it’s platonic, romantic, whatever, Emma is my other half. She’ll always have bits and pieces of me that I can’t reclaim unless I’m with her.”. However, for some reason, I just didn’t feel *a thing* while reading their scenes together. Their “Always and forever” thing didn’t hit. I didn’t feel a single butterfly when they admitted their feelings, or when they kissed. Their cheesy moments (like when they helped each other shower, or when Caleb told that bully “Touch her again and I’ll break you”, or their love confession in the middle of an argument) just left me staring blankly at the page… Them getting steamy after 1 kiss (and 4 years of animosity) just made me feel… too ace for this shit lol.

I genuinely don’t know what happened! Like, in my head, I could tell they were super cute together, and I was rooting for them, but I still didn’t feel a singular butterfly in my stomach, and I’m sad about it. 😢😢😢 However, I think this might be a *me* problem; I haven’t been loving any books, recently. I hoped this one would reignite my love for romance, and leave me giggling and kicking my feet, but unfortunately that didn’t happen. I still think other people could love this romance, though! And I hope they do, because I still really like Amanda Woody and I can’t WAIT to read their next book!



Now for the things I liked:
✘ I thought Emma and Caleb were great MCs! I related a lot more to Caleb, but I liked them both. I enjoyed reading about their struggles and their family lives, and seeing how their different personalities complemented each other so well.
✘ The conflicts in this book made sense – the reason for their fallout was logical and well established, and their little argument later on was well integrated into the story, too. I appreciate that Amanda Woody always writes 3rd act conflicts that actually make sense for the story and characters, and aren’t there just for the sake of having a stupid 3rd act breakup.
✘ The SCs were enjoyable and well portrayed, especially Caleb and Emma’s parents.
✘ I also thought this book had some amusing lines.
✘ The queer representation was obviously amazing, and I loved all the conversations about it.

Overall, this is a fun book, with lots of great rep and a sweet romance. Definitely pick it up if it sounds like something you’d enjoy!

I honestly didn’t like this as much as I hoped I would. I'd been looking forwards to reading it since I saw it mentioned in an instagram post, and the concept seemed so fun and exciting. And it was.

My biggest problem was with the characters. Everyone at the beginning seemed like a caricature to me. But by the end, about 50% of them still seemed to be. Juliet especially, for all that the story revolved around her, has absolutely no depth or real personality. Everything we seem to know about them is either surface level or an objective fact. Emma and Caleb are alright, but once again too stereotypical for my tastes. They also seem way too emotionally mature with no explanation as to why, and everyone seems to make decisions and stick to them without any doubt. I think that’s unrealistic for most people, especially teenagers with no history of therapy or people who had a similar experience to guide them. Caleb's mom, though, was great and I absolutely adored her.

Though there was diversity, it didn’t really feel like it because the characters were not fleshed out. And I guessed Juliet’s big reveal around 20 pages in and was right, so I think Woody could have either created a better twist or make us think the one they chose was off the table.

I think there was too much telling sometimes, especially with emotional reactions to things. We as readers are smarter than the narrative seems to think, and we don’t need every single obvious emotion to be explained. On the flip side, I felt that some of the actions could have been explained better, not danced around. Small plot happenings don’t need to be a mystery.

I didn’t like the pacing at the beginning; it was way too slow for the first more than a hundred pages. The ending was much better, but I honestly don’t think we even needed the epilogue. It didn’t add much to the story for me.

Thank you to the publisher and Net Galley for the e-arc in exchange for an honest review!

DNF 53%
I am very thankful to have received an arc. I enjoy the dual pov. I enjoyed slowly learning the past Caleb and Emma. I was happy to read that as the story progresses it becomes clear that the narrative will result into a reconciliation between them. Juliet isn’t interesting in the slightest or a captivating character. As I read I would wait for the two exs to stop gushing over her so I could read about their past and learn more about who they are. Caleb and Emma have chemistry unlike them with Juliet. I enjoyed reading about Caleb’s caring nature. I think people will enjoy this, it just wasn’t captivating enough to finish reading

4.75 ⭐️
Emma and Caleb used to be best friends, and now they're both vying for the attention of Juliet. This frienemies to lovers story was so sweet and funny. The banter in this was hilarious, I loved all the little twists and turns, and the diverse queer rep brought a huge smile to my face The 2 biggest things that kept this from being a 5 star were the fact that all the side characters were brown (it gave me magical negro vibes) and one particular scene at the end that made me uncomfortable because this is YA. That said, I loved all of these characters, especially the unsuspecting snark, and I would love to read more from this author. I honestly wish this was a bit longer so the side characters could be more fleshed out. Overall, This was so much fun! I got this as an ARC from Netgalley, and I will be buying it once it comes out.

Though this is a mature YA book, it covers some heavy topics so just be cautious! As for the relationship dynamic, it’s a complicated love triangle and i’m just glad it ends with a solutions and not discombobulated ending! Can’t wait to read more by this author!

This one is difficult to review with a number because I think it is doing a really good job at what it set out to do, but I am for sure no longer the target demographic. As a queer YA book it delivered on the representation really well. I could see teens really enjoying this, particularly if they can relate to either of the main characters. But the side friend characters unfortunately fell flat in comparison to Emma and Caleb as the POV characters. The book even teases that Emma’s friend Alice doesn’t have anything going on in her life except for Emma. And for how the book supposedly revolves around this competition over Juliet, it is especially surprising how little we actually get to know her. Like we learn facts about her, but she didn’t feel fully realized.

Even though the friend characterization leaves something to be desired, the best thing this book does is relationships. The relationship between Emma and Caleb is nuanced. The exploration of parental abuse and how that manifests in other relationships was done well. And the relationship between Emma and Caleb’s mom was a beautiful look at that sort of second parent you get from your friend’s parents.

The writing was pretty weak in the front half, while the second half of this book really pulled it together. I didn’t think we needed the epilogue though, I liked how the last chapter ended better. The dedication really got me 🥺

3.5

This book had a similar tone to They Hate Each Other (a balance of silly/nonsensical concept against the backdrop of some heavier topics). The two main characters were three dimensional and broke away from gender stereotypes, which is always a good thing and a nice subversion for the YA genre. This was definitely a quick read and while the first half didn't grab me, there weren't any pacing issues.

This is just down to personal preference, but the language used definitely skewed younger, and it felt a bit Ali Hazelwood-esque. There are some YA books that are great for readers of any age (They Hate Each Other felt more like that) and some that are meant exclusively for teens and I think this one skews to the latter. This is probably sitting at a 2.5 for me personally, but I really don't think I was the target age demographic for this one.

I wasn't actually able to get a clear read on some of the characters or connect with the plot until the second half. My biggest criticism is that I really wish there was a bit more put into Juliet's character because I couldn't quite figure out what made her just so compelling to Emma and Caleb. Her quirkiness and constant self-deprecation was more annoying than charming. Which wouldn't be an issue for a supporting character, but their interest in her is what was the catalyst for the whole plot.

i’m so bummed to announce that this one wasn’t meant for me 😭 i found the characters to be somewhat cringey and over the top.

Okay, this was cute AF. I am such a sucker for a bisexual love triangle and the messes they create, and this was such a unique way to go about it! I also love a good childhood besties to ex besties to lovers romance, so clearly this was right up my alley. I loved the competition aspect, and I laughed so much throughout! I do wish we had gotten to see more of Emma and Caleb together, but I understand that the focus for the majority of the story was Juliet, and honestly, it was really fun getting to see both of their POVs while trying to "win" her over. Highly recommend!

Amanda Woody has solidified their place as one of my must buy authors! Woody has such a way with banter that i’m giggling and kicking my legs on every sentence! And who gave them permission to write me into the book! JK but Juliet reminds me so much of myself that it’s scary! (Aroace twins!) The relationship between Caleb and Emma was a hurricane of love and insults that needs to be present in a friends to enemies to lovers (where they were never really enemies they just lacked communication skills) I can’t wait to read it again once it comes out!

Oh, this book has my heart. Best friends to rivals to lovers, a queer M/F relationship, family trauma and some of my favorite secondary characters, what's not to love? I managed to spread this out over two sittings instead of all in one go, but it was next to impossible to put Exes and Foes down. At first I had been hoping that this would end up being a polyam relationship (it wasn't), but I loved Emma and Caleb's relationship so, so much. The way it developed in the present while forcing them to confront their tumultuous past worked so well, and they fit so well together it was hard to believe that they hadn't ended up friends again sooner. I'm so impressed with this book, and can't wait to go back and read Woody's debut, and whatever they publish next!

4/5 ⭐️

I was so pleasantly surprised by this book because it was so fun. From literally the dedication (to anyone who has never felt queer enough) to the three main characters I just had so much enjoyment reading this hehe :)

Everything was so silly and wholesome and my heart loves all these characters (especially Caleb omg). The way that Caleb speaks and thinks I felt in my soul and the amount of times I giggled at these insults he was hurling at himself while pining over Emma was too too funny. I think the three leads do a great job balacing each other out and while I cringed and was in pain as Emma and Caleb both used Juliet as part of their game, I think the fallout and ending was resloved nicely (even if Juliet did let them off a bit easy). AND OMG Emma and Calebs mom I loved their relationship so so much and it was so so sad that she ghosted her - like I was more upset by that than her not talking to Caleb :((

Anyway, I definitly recommend this book and can't wait to read the finished copy when it comes out in July!!!

Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for a review copy. All thoughts and opinons are my own.

I love Amanda Woody and her previous book so I was so thankful that I received an advance copy of her new book! As usual, it was filled to the brim with heart, soul, and a YA romance to boot. I'm loving this new micro-trope in fiction where two bi people start to have a crush on the same person but end up falling in love with each other instead. I eat it up every time. Exes & Foes was fun and also deeply emotional and I would highly recommend!!!

Thank you NetGalley and to the publisher for the digital ARC in exchange for an honest review!

This was a cute story. I kind of knew from the beginning that Caleb and Emma would wind up together (not mad about it!) but watching them get there was very enjoyable. I was kinnnnnd of hoping for a poly ending but was definitely ok with what we got. There was a lot of representation here, and the story was well done in an age appropriate way for a book that is classified as YA. The book does touch on some sensitive subjects (parental abandonment, bullying, etc.), so just something to keep in mind if you aren't in the right space to read about those things. Characters were well developed, and book had a good pace.

amanda woody never misses with her books! they just have so much heart to them i don't think i could ever hate them. this was so beautiful, heartwarming and lovely at the same time. jdjnejrfqejrfjqerhf i loved it SO much.

Thank you to Net galley for approving my ARC of Exes and Foes.

While the book had a good premise, I found it very hard to read and finish because of the way the characters spoke and their behaviors. It all came across and very cringey and over the top to me. However, If the way the characters converse with each other does not feel the same to you as it does to me and you’re looking for a short book to pass time, I would recommend this book.

Amanda Woody has stolen my heart again with this YA second chance romance. So funny, so tender, well developed, flawed characters. Character growth as individuals and as a couple. So so so much to love about this book.
Thank you to netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read this in exchange for an honest review.

Exes and Foes features an atypical love triangle: Emma and Caleb knowingly compete for their mutual friend's affection.

I did not find this competition enjoyable to read about. Labeling it as a competition makes Juliet seem like a prize, not a person. This competition isn't about what Juliet wants or whether Juliet is even interested in either of them. While still reading, I thought I would end up giving this book 2 or 3 stars because I genuinely dislike this major plot point.

That said, sometimes I read a book and give it all the stars simply because of the way it made me feel. That's exactly what happened with Exes and Foes. This book took me through the entire spectrum of emotions. I felt for every character. In fact, I was so emotionally invested in their lives that, at times, I had to take a break from the book and calm down.

In my opinion, that's where Amanda Woody's genius lies, in their ability to craft gut-wrenchingly authentic stories that make the characters seem like long-time friends. Plus, Woody really delivers on diverse LGBT+ representation in this book.

Bottom line: Even better than their debut.

Dear Amanda,

We all can have this terrible voice inside our heads that we’re not good enough. I know you worry readers won’t like your books. That your books aren’t good enough.

But Amanda, do you know how many people liked THEO? And would do anything to get that sequel you wrote? Do you know how THEO made me smile and gave this warm fuzzy feeling in my chest? And please know, Exes & Foes made me feel the same way!

The moment I started reading Exes, that smile I had while indulging THEO returned to my face. I grinned, I chuckled softly, I burst out laughing, and sometimes my chest tightened and a lump closed off my throat. You have a gift, Amanda. A gift to write fantastic character dynamics with so much vibrancy. I fell in love with badass Emma and awkward (her words) Juliette, and Caleb literally took a piece of my heart so he could live there forever. Even though I loved Juliette, I wanted Emma and Caleb to get together so badly. And when they finally did, after some hurdles, my heart fluttered.

Please, Amanda, never doubt yourself again. You’re one of those authors whose books I’d read without even reading the blurb.

Love,
Marieke

A fun story between friends, but also one that dealt with deeper topics. While I know this is for a younger audience I didn’t enjoy it as much as i was hoping for. I did like her first book alright but the writing style for this one dragged a bit for me. I did like the mmc but I didn’t have a preference for any character in particular. I did like how it ended though.