Thanks to Netgalley, Berkley Publishing Group and PRH Audio for the arc/alc!

OMG! This book is probably one of the cutest books I have/will read in 2025! I absolutely loved it. Seriously, you can't help but SWOON over this book. Emily and Austin are such a great writing duo, they could write a phone book and I would probably still rate it 5 stars LOL. I loved how they blended fantasy and romance with comedy...I must admit I am not a huge fantasy fan, but this was a really cool twist on the fantasy genre. I don't want to spoil too much of the plot though! Anyhow. Jennifer and Scott were quite the couple and I absolutely loved their chemistry. I almost wish they could have a sequel story.

The audiobook is brilliantly narrated by Helen Laser and I can't imagine anyone else doing a better job than she does! I would've loved a dual m/f narration, but that wasn't in the cards for this book and thats ok.

Overall. I wish I could rate this book way more than 5 stars, and I can't wait to see what Emily W and Austin SB come up with next!

it brings me great sadness when i say that this book was not for me, because the main premise of this book sounded cute and a bit unique! it fell flat for me too many times and i just couldn't connect to the female main character, jennifer (despite being a bookworm much like her). i really did enjoy the fantasy-convention like elements to it, that was fun to read! i just wish i could have connected with the FMC a little more. i also didn't care for scott, he seemed so bland and even with the work rivals to lovers trope, i just couldn't see the two together in the end and in the span of a week's time.

thank you to berkley romance for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I was really excited about the premise of this book. As a fan of the movie Austenland, I was excited to read about an immersive fan experience and the romance that ensues as our main FMC must distinguish between fantasy and reality and find there can be something (and someone) better than any fantasy in her books.

For fans of ACOTAR, fan fiction, fandoms, and for any who dream of going to an immersive role playing experience, this may be for you!

The entire book is written from the female main character - Jennifer’s - point of view. We follow Jennifer through a break-up and to an immersive week-long experience based on her favorite book series where she ends up in competing against and falling for her rival at work.

I ended up not enjoying this book as much as I had hoped, as Jennifer’s inner monologue seems to criticize or poke fun of the fandom our character loves so much - to the point where it feels like internalized misogyny or that the authors themselves want the reader to know they know how silly their main character is for caring about these books as much as she does.

I think this book would have been much more successful if I - as the reader - could have felt the joy, freedom, comfort and fun of being part of a fandom and then journeyed with the character as she grew and developed throughout the novel in a way that didn’t seem so critical of romantasy and romantasy fandom. Reading this book, I didn’t get the sense that the authors were part of or fully appreciated the genre.

I also really think we missed out on Scott’s point of view. It would have made his motives more concrete and given more depth to his character.

"Book Boyfriend" is a heartfelt tribute to the romance and romantasy genres, celebrating the immersive worlds that offer readers both escape and inspiration. Through Jennifer Worth's journey, the novel explores the allure of fictional realms and the characters who inhabit them, prompting readers to reflect on the balance between fantasy and reality.

**Plot Overview**

Jennifer Worth, an ardent fan of the romantasy series *Elytheum Courts*, attends an immersive fan event to reconnect with her passion following a breakup. Unexpectedly, she encounters Scott Daniels, her work nemesis, who is also participating in the event. As they engage in a high-stakes scavenger hunt, Jennifer begins to see a different side of Scott, leading to a blossoming romance that blurs the lines between fiction and reality.

**Themes and Analysis**

The novel delves into the debate of escaping reality versus confronting one's problems, highlighting how literature and beloved characters can inspire and influence our everyday lives. Jennifer's journey underscores the impact of fictional worlds on personal growth and self-discovery.

**Character Dynamics**

Jennifer's character is relatable and endearing, embodying the passion and enthusiasm of a dedicated reader. However, Scott's transformation from a work nemesis to a romantic interest may feel abrupt to some readers, as his change in demeanor lacks a gradual buildup. This shift could benefit from more development to enhance the believability of their evolving relationship.

**Romantic Elements**

While the novel offers a sweet and poetic romance, it is light on explicit content. Readers seeking more intense romantic scenes may find this aspect lacking.

**Conclusion**

Overall, "Book Boyfriend" is a charming and entertaining read that pays homage to the romance and romantasy genres. Its poetic prose and exploration of the influence of fiction on real life make it a delightful choice for fans of the genre. However, those desiring a more gradual character development and a spicier romance may find certain elements lacking.

2.5 stars

Idiots to lovers is one of my favorite tropes and I loved the idea of this, sadly it fell pretty flat to me.

I don't really want to list all of the things that I didn't like, so I guess I just say that I needed more conversation, more showing instead of telling, and even a sliver of chemistry would have worked wonders.

Overall, it was an interesting idea and I did skim through to see how it ended, but I could have easily DNF'd.

**Huge thanks to the publisher for providing the arc free of charge**

I tried and tried and tried but I could not get into this book. I have loved one book these authors put out and disliked 3, so maybe they just aren't for me.

2.75⭐️3🌶️

First person
Work rivals
Cosplay
Opposites attract

I couldn’t help but smile when Book Boyfriend seemed to nod to ACOTAR—specifically the Night Court balls. It was a fun reference that added a playful touch to the story.

The book starts off in New York, immersing us in the publishing world, but quickly shifts to a weeklong book fandom event on a small college campus. The setting felt a bit ambiguous, which was interesting in its own right, though I was never quite sure if I was supposed to take it literally or as a more whimsical backdrop.

The pacing took a while to pick up, with quite a bit of reflection before the plot truly kicked in. At times, it felt like a slow start. Personally, I would have preferred to see those reflective moments play out on the page in real time, rather than as a chapter-long memory. The jump back in time was a little jarring.

The characters had their moments of charm, but also some traits that didn’t quite resonate with me. I wasn’t a fan of the MMC trying to craft a “fantasy MMC” persona—it felt a little forced and ingenuine. As for the FMC, I found her character a bit too flaky for my taste. The miscommunication between the two was also a bit too contrived and felt a bit overdone.

There were certainly parts of the book that were endearing, but at times it seemed to lean too heavily on familiar tropes, making it feel a little stereotype-driven.

Thank you NeyGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for an eARC of this book. All opinions are my own.

Book Boyfriend by Emily Wibberley and Austin Siegemund-Broka is a delightful tale that pays homage to all book lovers who have found themselves captivated by fictional characters and worlds. This charmingly funny and sensually written novel is brimming with absolute joy.

This is a cute rival coworkers to lovers romance! I found the set up to be super unique. The fandom aspects were so much fun. I love loved the opposite attract set up. The two of them falling head over heels made for such a cute read.

Thank you berkley romance and NetGalley for an arc!

What to expect
✨ Rivals to lovers
✨ grumpy x sunshine
✨ Coworkers in a competition

This might be my favorite Emily and Austin book yet! I loved this fandom world they created (and I would like to read this fictional fantasy book series, please and thank you) and I loved watching the two main characters fall for each other. A perfect love letter to the romance community!

This book was everything I hoped for and more! As a reader who loves being immersed in fandoms and finding fellow lovers of series this was so fun! Could feel the tension between Scott and Jennifer long before they realized it! I don’t feel like I’ve read anything quite like this book, and appreciate what both authors brought to it! Will be suggesting this title for our library!

This book was so cute! I really related to the main character , Jennifer. I saw so much of myself in her. I do wish we had Scott’s POV, I think it might’ve rounded out the story a bit more for me.

Thank you to Berkley for providing a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

Jennifer Worth is thrilled to attend a week-long fan experience inspired by her favorite romantasy series, Elytheum Courts. It also means a week-long escape from her work nemesis, Scott Daniels, who rejected her friendship and makes fun of the books she loves. So you can imagine her disappointment when Scott appears in the cafeteria on the first day of the experience. Determined not to let Scott ruin her fun, Jennifer tries to out-perform him at every event. As the lines between real life and fantasy blur, Jennifer finds there is more to Scott than his cold exterior. Is real love, with all its potential for heartbreak, better than the romance in her favorite book series?

This was a fun read and I loved the messages about the power of hope in fantasy. Fantasy, especially fantasy romance, gets discounted a lot, which is unfair. Book Boyfriend discusses the value of this type of literature and how it creates a community as well as inspires readers. The story is a quintessential enemies-to-lovers, slow-burn romance, and I appreciated the unique premise. I would love to attend a week-long fan event! Anyone who prefers books to people and loves trading fan theories will relate to Jennifer--I certainly did. It was lovely to see what Jennifer and Scott, two polar opposites in many ways, could teach other about life and taking chances. This book should be a definite add to your TBR!

My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️

I really like that the book evolved around a fan retreat for a fantasy series that has a huge fan following—that was a cute take for a contemporary romance. The enemies to lovers aspect was really good and their witty banter was top notch. That being said though the lovers part kind of happened abruptly?! I’d say the title is a little misleading in that Scott wasn’t really any ideal book boyfriend given the reason they’re “enemies” to begin with…but maybe that’s the point?

Also, pleaseeee give us an epilogue! I need to know about grad school, if they still work together, all the things!

Read this if you like:
✅ enemies to lovers
✅ grumpy x sunshine
✅ coworker relationship
✅ competition

Thank you so much to Berkley Publishing Group and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!

Thank you to Netgalley for the Arc!


So i really enjoyed this book! I don't really like Jen, but i love Scott. The side characters were great. I think they absolutely should have banged in the library. I dont get why Scott left so abruptly. From that point to the end of the book, it just wasn't as good.

A book written for the Romantasy Girlies wanting to read something lighter than wars between fae but still want vibes.

The only flaw is that the first few interactions between the main characters felt kinda awkward. I wasn't sure if it was show that the FMC was kinda awkward herself or if the authors' didn't realize it was kinda odd.

This is a lighthearted, humorous romance book that delivers a unique take on rivals to lovers - a trope I very much love. This is also perfect if you're looking for a romance book that is easy to get into and features fantasy romance fandoms (especially those similar to popular ones on BookTok)!

Thank you so much for my ARC, I truly appreciate it!

3.75/5

WELL.

Alright, I’ve been a pretty steady fan of EW & ASB adult romance books. They usually cover some good themes and have a swoon factor I enjoy. It’s also nice that they are on the lower end of the spice scale so it’s not in your face throughout.

I loved the initial idea with this book and how it felt like a love letter to fantasy books (and readers in general). I loved the immersion set up and I would absolutely attend one of these events if I could.

What kind of lost me was that it didn’t feel romantic. For a book centered around a fantasy romance and finding romance, etc. I did not feel that from the characters. The clue hunting plot (+ some side characters) was very much center stage and I wish it would have focused more on Jennifer and Scott. Not to mention, the third act was ridiculous.

I did love the audiobook and thought that the production and narration was great. If you want to read this book, definitely recommend that route.

Overall audience notes:

Contemporary Romance
Language: mild
Romance: 2 open door

3.5 stars rounded up to 4

🙌 What worked for me:
• I loved the fantasy fandom written into this romance! I wish this fantasy series was real because I'd totally read it.
• Jennifer and Scott's rivals to lovers romance was adorable and well written.
• The friendships Jennifer formed while at the Elytheum Experience was such a fun part of the book. Almost a found family feel to it.
• I liked the scavenger hunt part of the book. It was a fun part of the book.

🚫 What didn't work for me:
• Third act break up. I was waiting for it, but I was still super annoyed by it. The reason for it in this one story felt especially stupid.
• While the overall story was cute, there wasn't much character background or building, so the characters were all just kind of one-dimensional.

🤜 Would I recommend: if you are looking for a cute, quick, fluffy read, then yes.

Read if you enjoy:
✔️ Rivals to Lovers
✔️ Fantasy Fandoms
✔️ Found Family(ish) Trope
✔️ Scavenger Hunts

Romantasy lovers won't want to miss this new enemies to lovers romcom from married author duo Emily Wibberley and Austin Siegemund-Broka that sees Jennifer, an obsessed fantasy series fan forced to spend a week with her workplace rival, Scott when they both show up for a the same event designed to challenge fans of the Elytheum series. Full of forced proximity tension, secret pining and fun fantasy inspired events and tasks that Jennifer and Scott have to complete for a chance to solve a puzzle and win a grand prize at the end of the week.

At times this book felt a bit slow-paced like not a lot was happening but by the end I was won over by Jennifer's character growth and her realization that losing herself in fantasy isn't always the best way to live and that real life can be its own kind of magic, especially when you find the right people to share it with. Good on audio narrated by Helen Laser. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy and @prhaudio for a complimentary ALC in exchange for my honest review.