though I do not expect every book to reinvent the wheel, love and other conspiracies didn't offer enough excitement or development to maintain my interest. the plot was promising but fell short as our main characters, hallie and hayden, spent more time discussing their conspiracy hunting than letting us the reader on the action. there was also an insufferable side character that played a main role in the progress of the main romance and the third-act conflict. his recurring presence served a purpose, of course, but I struggled not to be annoyed by the inclusion.

since love and other conspiracies is on the shorter side of things, I appreciated that the plot got off to a fast start, but hoped it would amount to more than it did. hayden was a sweetie pie of a love interest though, fawning over hallie almost from the beginning, supporting her through the path she needed to take for them to come back together. he was a true bright spot throughout.

thanks to berkley and mallory marlowe for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

I am the person who collects Big Foot Merch so this book cover was a complete NEED!

Love and Other Conspiracies brought so many fun elements to the table… A Web Series Producer (Hallie) comes up with a clever show pitch and needs a Paranormal Conspiracy Theorist (Hayden) to be center stage.

Full of chemistry, skepticism and forced proximity. I loved the support Hallie and Hayden showed to each other whether it was for their passions or past trauma.

“Greif breaks a lot of things.”

I went audio route and absolutely loved the narration. It worked really well with the media theme!

Mallory Marlow is one to watch!

Thank you Berkley & PRH Audio
Releases 8/20

Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Lyon.brit.Andthebookshelf/

I need this show in real life. Can someone get on that please.

I think the idea of a paranormal/conspiracy show where one host is a believer and the other is a skeptic with the kind of chemistry being given off by Hallie and Hayden would be everyone's newest obsession. Who needs true crime podcasts when you have The Out There with Hallie and Hayden.

Hallie is given an opportunity to produce her own show for the upcoming season, the winner will get picked up for a Season 2 and given an actual budget.  While trying to come up with an idea, Hallie comes across Hayden doing in interview about his podcast The Out There.  Hallie has never considered herself a believer in that kind of thing, but listening to Hayden Hargrove, she is caught up in his passion about his theories.   Hallie believes that Hayden will captivate an audience as well as he captivated her.

The problem is when she brings him to the studio to present the idea to her boss, Hayden is very awkward  before the camera,  looking down at his notes, something you wouldn't notice in a podcast.  Hallie realizes that the interview she watched, Hayden was discussing the theories with the host and throws out some questions and argues against his theories, so her boss can see how Hayden lights up discussing his conspiracy theories and cryptid creatures.   This works so well that Hallie is shocked when her boss wants Hallie to come out from behind the camera and co-host The Out There with Hayden, and idea that Hayden whole-heartedly agrees with.

Hayden and Hallie and The Out There not only becomes a success but is leading the race for the number 1 new show, especially when their audience gets behind the chemistry between Hayden and Hallie and are happily "shipping" this couple.

This pisses off Hallie's rival and ex-boyfriend who was not happy when Hallie walked out of the abusive relationship.   Hallie wants to be strong, but after years of living with a narcissist who wore down her self-esteem to build himself up, there is still a part of her that listens to his torment and demeaning attacks as truth.  She also knows that no matter how much she is coming to admire Hayden, it will not look good for her to go from one co-worker relationship to another, and she  fears the repercussions to her already floundering career.

Hallie still doesn't believe in Bigfoot but she is starting to believe in Hayden and that maybe he is worth risking her fragile heart.

THOUGHTS:
I loved this "real" X-File type show and the chemistry between Hayden and Hallie shines brighter than Area 51.   It was fun to find myself looking up some of these conspiracy theories--some I have heard of, some I did not.

I kept waiting to see if Hallie would have an encounter which would make her a believer but I was kind of happy  that the author didn't play into that and no matter where their adventures took them, Hayden would find "proof" and Hallie would dispute it, and as the tag line says on the book "They want to believe," even if that belief is only in each other.

I had fun with the premise and fun with the characters.  I did feel bad that no matter how successful Hallie was and how successful the show was and how much Hayden liked her, she kept encountering her ex-boyfriend.  He was an expert in manipulating her and charming his bosses and everyone around him to believe he was wonderful.  This left Hallie feeling depressed while he manipulated things so she felt unable to fight back against him.   While he might have been needed as a plot point, I think I could have enjoyed this story much more  without him showing up as he kept bring the fun to a sudden halt.

This was a delightful story and I would really like to watch an actual episode of The Out There.  I am pretty bummed it doesn't actually exist.

This rom com was written just for me in ways I barely know how to articulate. For anyone who loves X-Files or had a Buzzfeed YouTube phase, and especially for those who like slow burn to STAY slow burn into the relationship and not just immediately bang it out. 🩶 gray ace rep 🩶

This was such a f-cking delight! The concept, the characters- all perfect. (Except Cade. I hope he gets abducted by aliens and they keep him.) A wonderful debut!

I loved Hallie so much and really enjoyed her POV. Obv, because I'm me, I wish we'd gotten Hayden's POV as well, but Hallie was such a fun narrator that I don't mind much. She was quirky but not in an annoying, Not-Like-Other-Girls way, and every time she took a step forward and opened up about her relationship with Cade, I just really felt for her.

And Hayden is like my favorite brand of geeky cinnamon roll hero. The sweetness and reverence he shows Hallie- chef's kiss.

I hope we see more of everyone (not Cade, seriously f-ck that guy) in Marlowe's next book! (Which seems promising considering the first chapter has an article from Skroll and a mention of The Out There at the end!)

This book was a warm hug wrapped with tons of folklore, ghost stories, and, of course, conspiracy theories.

Hallie works for a film company as a producer—and ever since a series of unexpected events led her to search aimlessly for a new gripping show—she is on the hunt for out-of-this-world engaging content. She soon discovers a podcast where the host is charming, and the storytelling and theories of haunts, lore, and conspiracies are downright addicting. But what happens when the two team up and start working together, only for sparks to fly?

This was such a great, heartfelt read! I loved the addition of the history and background of stories relevant to the plot, from the Loch Ness Monster to Bigfoot and beyond. It reminded me of the Lore podcast but way less spooky and more on the lighthearted rom-com side. And the love story was such a sweet one. I loved seeing them just have tons of fun and learn to let down their walls. It was so darn cute!

*Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for sending me an eARC in exchange for an honest review.*

I had no idea what to expect from a romance about conspiracies, but as a devoted fan of the romance genre, as well as a longtime fan of X-Files (Sculder!), I was intrigued. Whatever I did or didn't expect. this book enchanted me and blew me away. The set-up made the stakes crystal clear, and when Hallie and Hayden met on page, I was hooked. Each of the main characters is so beautifully portrayed as a real, flawed person. The premise might be otherworldly, but the heart of this book is grounded in the humanity and vulnerability of Hallie and Hayden, and the connection between them. The monster-hunting is a fun backdrop that kept things wacky and light, and the cast of supporting characters was delightful. Loved it!

If this book has no fans, it’s because I’ve run off with Mothman. 😉 but seriously this book was PERFECT. Hallie was quirky and down to earth while Hayden was…also quirky and down to earth. 😂 they were really were two perfectly crafted characters for a silly little romance like this. The whole premise was fantastic and the story flowed so nicely (double bonus there was minimal conflict between H and H - had they had a big blow up I think I would’ve actually died.)

All and all - absolutely amazing; no notes! Thank you NetGalley and Berkley Romance an advanced copy of this book! Love and Other Conspiracies drops August 20th!

This was so much fun! I absolutely blew through it. Hallie and Hayden are both completely charming, and Marlowe does a great job channeling the Mulder and Scully vibes. I thought there was a really nice balance between the romance plot and the show plot. I also appreciated that there was little romance angst, and that the heavier themes came from backstory and subplots. A perfectly adorable ending too!

First and foremost thank you to NetGalley, Mallory Marlowe, and Berkley Publishing Group for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Overall: Solid 4 stars, fun read, really enjoyable main couple!

Short and sweet opinion: I was skeptical at first, but ended up enjoying this book. The main characters Hayden and Hallie are lovable and sweet, and their banter is TOP TIER for me. Overall a very enjoyable read, unique premise and lovable characters. Will definitely be picking up this author again.

In Depth Opinion: There are some cool plot lines surrounding the cryptids they are following, the premise of the internet show is interesting (especially as a recovering Buzzfeed addict) and incredibly unique. I had fun reading it, and was kept entertained the majority of the time. I loved the emphasis on nerding out and allowing your partner to have their "thing".

I would have loved to see this book in a dual-POV as well.

I overall enjoyed this story, I think that it was a wonderful debut and I look forward to reading more of Mallory Marlowe's work.

The pros and cons
While it was a fun, light read involving a lot of my favorite things, such as cryptids and X-Files references (my favorite show every), it did not have the ooomph I was expecting going in- let me tell you why. I liked our MCs, Hallie and Hayden, and I thought that the Out There was a fun thing to get to experience with them. I would watch the heck out of it if it was real! It was a great addition to have their episode transcripts in there.
I think that their relationship romantically was cute- but just that. What I felt was lacking was just not enough tension for me, both within their relationship to each other, and with our external factors. I think that our antagonist was a great plotline to keep the story feeling high stakes, but it just did not fully deliver for me. It was just not enough. I liked that we got to explore with Hallie her feelings regarding her own dating life and where she felt the most herself within the context of relationships, sex, and dating. I feel very much the same way as her in regards to these things, so I liked that aspect of the story. To sum up my feelings, I just did not feel enough urgency reading this. It felt like a cozy story, but I was maybe biased going in, expecting a lot more tension both from the relationship, and the action of the plot.

Overall, this story was a cozy, slice of life type read with a great paranormal twist. If you want to read something low stress and find out new things about different cryptids and conspiracies, this one is for you.

I am loving the lightly paranormal romcom! Hallie and Hayden are two people who are both somewhat lonely who find each other and create a partnership that starts as professional and then becomes personal as well.

I loved watching them open up to each other and take care of each other. It was clearly something neither of them were used to having. Their connection was sweet and incredibly well written so that you can't help root for them!

Reading about their show, which I would totally watch is also a blast! This is perfect for fans of books like Do Your Worst and This Spells Love. It is also great for fans of friends to lovers, or anyone who loves a good conspiracy theory or monster hunt!

I was a little skeptical on how a book based on paranormal conspiracies would turn out, but this was surprisingly decent! I liked the plot of this story: a paranormal conspiracy believer and non-believer work together to create a web series. I thought Hallie and Hayden were fun and entertaining characters. The back and forth between them was great. I found a lot of Hallie's quips funny. I liked how vulnerable Hayden and Hallie were with each other. Hayden was a sweet heart of a book boyfriend. I enjoyed watching Hayden and Hallie's relationship progress. They were a cute couple! This book had all of the fun tropes romance readers like to see in their books: one bed, taking care of someone when they're sick, forced proximity, etc. I thought Marlowe did a great job with those tropes. I do wish Marlowe expanded on the gray asexual bit towards the end of the book. I felt like that part of the story was rushed and underdeveloped. I also thought the story fell a little flat towards the end. Overall, this was a silly and interesting book. Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley for the ARC.

👽Nonbeliever and Conspiracy Theorist
💙Mutual Pining
👽Workplace Romance
💙Cohosts
👽Cryptid and Ghost Hunting
💙Opposite Attracts
👽Consent King
💙Cinnamon Roll Hero
👽Only One Bed
💙Takes care of her
👽Scully & Mulder vibes

This debut novel was definitely a 5 stars 🌟 I love both of the main characters! Hayden and Hallie are such an adorable couple 💙 I love everything about this story! I can't wait for another novel from this author. Even though I was not acknowledgeable about cryptids and anything paranormal. Somehow, I was sucked in this amazing story about cryptid and ghost hunting while falling in love with Hayden and Hallie's story. This story was definitely *chef's kiss* 💋 I wouldn't change anything about this lovely story!

Mallory has quickly become an auto-buy author on my list! In her debut novel she quickly drew me in with a mixture of romance and the supernatural. I love that she included a multitude of beings, as well as banter and covered a few deeper topics as well. I absolutely loved every second of this book! Hallie and Hayden are just a match made!

This book was just so, SO much fun. I thoroughly enjoyed every single minute of my read. It's a nerd's dream book. Hunting ghosts, bigfoot, mothman, etc takes Hallie and Hayden on a variety of banter and chemistry-filled adventures. Both of the main characters were relatable and likeable, and I appreciated that they were both successful in their own right, and their relationship felt really equally-balanced. I will definitely be reading Marlowe's next release.

If you’ve ever watched the X-Files then you know the character balance and chemistry were dang near perfect. That’s why it ran so long and everyone was addicted to the show at the time.

What’s great is that this author was able to capture a lot of that feeling and connection between the two characters in this awesome rom-com. These two are humorous and build a great rapport that comes across really well in the story.

This book is a first for this author but she’s developed a story that makes you feel good and have fun while reading. Yes, there are several places that we deal with reality and a jerk of an ex who you want to slug. But for the most part, it’s a really fun read. This is the type of book that makes me happy with the ending.

A bit steamy with plenty of slow burn going on. You will be cheering them on! Quirky characters that make an impact, and a plot that you will remember for a long time! It might even have you believe the truth is out there…

If you love Mulder and Scully and are looking for your next summer read, Love and Other Conspiracies has got to be on your list! Set aside a day or two for this one!

You know when you find a book that speaks to you?
This was that book for me
It’s fun, light hearted, filled with amazing character communication, growth, banter and chemistry

First off- even if you aren’t into BigFoot or conspiracy theories, Mallory wrote this in such a way that you can’t help but appreciate someone’s love (and nerding out) over a passion of theirs and finding a person who lifts you up and supports you no matter what.

However, I too also love BigFoot documentaries (not sure I fully believe but some shows out there have such passion you cannot help but sucked into it) and conspiracy theory documentaries so this was a hit

I found both Hayden and Hallie to be relatable in many aspects- I loved their banter, their chemistry and their communication. Truly, this book slayed at communication between characters (again, thank you Mallory).

The story follows Hallie, who NEEDS to find a show to pitch to save her job. Her ex boyfriend (and coworker) belittled her in every way possible and ask she discovers Hayden and then begin working as co-hosts you get to see Hallie find her footing and really starting to believe in herself with the help of Hayden. But the uplift Hayden provides is also returned. Hallie helps Hayden standup for himself against his mom and be proud for all he’s accomplished.

Thank you NetGalley and Berkley for an ARC! Thank you Mallory for this chefs kiss book - I will be needing more!!

You know when you find a book that speaks to you?
This was that book for me
It’s fun, light hearted, filled with amazing character communication, growth, banter and chemistry

First off- even if you aren’t into BigFoot or conspiracy theories, Mallory wrote this in such a way that you can’t help but appreciate someone’s love (and nerding out) over a passion of theirs and finding a person who lifts you up and supports you no matter what.

However, I too also love BigFoot documentaries (not sure I fully believe but some shows out there have such passion you cannot help but sucked into it) and conspiracy theory documentaries so this was a hit

I found both Hayden and Hallie to be relatable in many aspects- I loved their banter, their chemistry and their communication. Truly, this book slayed at communication between characters (again, thank you Mallory).

The story follows Hallie, who NEEDS to find a show to pitch to save her job. Her ex boyfriend (and coworker) belittled her in every way possible and ask she discovers Hayden and then begin working as co-hosts you get to see Hallie find her footing and really starting to believe in herself with the help of Hayden. But the uplift Hayden provides is also returned. Hallie helps Hayden standup for himself against his mom and be proud for all he’s accomplished.

Thank you NetGalley and Berkley for an ARC! Thank you Mallory for this chefs kiss book - I will be needing more!!

If you are a Ghost Hunters/X-Files girly like me then do I have a book for you. Love and Other Conspiracies will rejuvenate 100% those Mulder & Scully shippers.

Mallory Marlowe paranormal romcom debut Love and Other Conspiracies is not one to miss. And without a doubt is one of my favorite romcoms of 2024. Which shocked the hell out of me because I went into this book with zero expectations and left wanting my own version of Hayden.

This book was an absolute pull at your heart strings delight! I found myself unable to put it down even when I clearly had to get back to working my 9-5 desk job. The book contained a great balance of comedy, angst, sweetness and character development with a sprinkle of spice that sold me from the get go.

The characters were down to earth and easy to relate to. Our MFC is a badass is the film/production industry and our MMC is literally the golden retriever of boyfriends and I want one. Their dynamic throughout the entire book was so healthy. Which is weird to say out loud because usually in most romcoms today we don’t see that.

I cannot say this enough I highly recommend you grab Love and Other Conspiracies when it comes out in August. I know I will be and I can’t wait to see what else Mrs Mallory does next!

Thanks to NetGalley and Berkeley Publishing for providing me with a digital reviewer copy in exchange for my honest thoughts!