The first half of the book in my opinion was very, very slow and it was hard to get through. I wouldn't really consider this to be a rom-com and the story was mainly about the publishing industry. There wasn't much character development and the ending between the MMC and FMC felt very rushed and random. The story lacked momentum through most of the book. Thank you Net Galley for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.

(This review was posted to Good Reads)

⭐️3.5
just kisses
🎧audiobook performance ⭐️4

Bryony desperately wants 2 things; to save her beloved ESL nonprofit school “The Bridge” and to find a literary agent to represent her first novel SO she can use it to promote support for “The Bridge”. After all the rejections of her novel, in a last-ditch effort, she takes a meeting with famed literary agent Jack Sterling. When he asks her to critique another writers work and her comments are spot-on she unintentionally becomes the ghostwriter for famous author, Amelia Benedict. After years of ghostwriting and no published works to her name, will Bryony get to fulfill any of her initial goals and will she find something she didn’t even know she was looking for?

This was a sweet story. It did make me chuckle a few times. I loved the dynamic between Bryony and Jack, I just wish there could have been more banter. I also enjoyed the stories of the ESL students but rarely did they happen in real time as well. It felt like a huge chunk of the story was Bryony’s inner monologue where I wished it was playing out in the dialogue more.

Overall, a sweet and fun read.

✨ghostwriter x agent
✨ESL representation
✨workplace romance
✨forced proximity
✨closed door romance

Thank you to Thomas Nelson and Zondervan Fiction Audio for the digital and audio ARCS of this book!
Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

2 ⭐️

a bit late on my review but it took me a great time to get invested in the story...

this book wasn't for me, it feels like the title is a bit misleading since there's barely romance in the books and it centers more in the FMC's thoughts.

thank you netgalley and the publisher for the arc!

This book was such a great light refreshing read! I loved the banter, cute romance and light heartedness. This is a perfect book to read between heavier books, I will definitely be recommended this.

Let me tell you about "The Perfect Rom-Com" by Melissa Ferguson. It's a delightful contemporary rom-com that really lives up to its title. The story follows Bryony Page, a ghostwriter for a popular author, and her agent, Jack Sterling. While their budding, albeit underlying, attraction and romance are central to the plot, the story also delves into Bryony's need to publish her own writing under her own name. This is crucial for her to support the funding of the non-profit where she works as an ESL teacher for immigrants. The other characters serve more as background, adding depth to the story without overshadowing the main duo.

What I loved about this book was the charming dynamic between Bryony and Jack. The way their relationship develops is just brilliant, and the humor sprinkled throughout kept me smiling. Melissa Ferguson's writing style is easy to read and engaging, making it a breeze to get through the book. This was my first time reading her work, and I was pleasantly surprised. Overall, I'd give this book 4 out of 5 stars because it was a charming and heartwarming read. If you're into rom-coms or enjoy stories about writers, you'll probably love it. Would I recommend it? Definitely, especially if you're looking for a light, feel-good read.

I was given a complimentary copy of the book by NetGalley from Thomas Nelson. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

I thought this book was very sweet! I do feel like it lacked some context, and I would’ve liked to see more development between Bryony and Jack, and feel more tangible tension between them and more sentimental regards toward The Bridge. I did really enjoy this, though, and I thought the story was cute!

2.75 stars. The premise of this book was really interesting but unfortunately the execution was lacking. It took way too long for things to progress and I found myself skipping parts on the first half of the book. After around 55% mark the story got better but then the conflict happened way too fast. I found the writing style easy to read but you shouldn’t go into reading this book thinking this is a rom-com/romance book.

I absolutely enjoyed this book. I went in based off the title and limited knowledge about the description of the story and I feel like that was the best way for me to enjoy the story.

The slow burn that happens in the story was done well. I haven’t enjoyed this type of romance in a while.

Bryony was an easy character to like and her determination throughout the story was lovely to read. She was dedicated to her passion at The Bridge. When she was hurt you as the reader felt the pain she was going through.

Jack was a character that is closed off and has his guard up but watching the fall was lovely to see.

Overall this has become one of my new favorites and recommend reading this story.

Ooof, more like a terrible rom-com.. maybe if this was titled different, my expectations would have been slightly different too, this is no way brought anything perfect, romantic or comedic.

Unbearable main characters and miscommunication the whole way through, which is a personal hate of mine. I wish our main character Bryony would have stood up for herself in so many situations and Jack, well he was just a jerk and he was way too easily forgiven for his lies. There was also 0 chemistry, it was all very forced and no humour, which was a disappointment.

My only slight positive from this book was the “villain” of the story, Amelia Benedict - she was serving Angelica from Rugrats vibes and was the most developed.

Thank-you NetGalley, Harper Collins Christian Publishing and Melissa for a Digital Advanced Readers Copy, in exchange for an honest review.

I really enjoyed reading this book and it was a perfect read for valentine’s week. I’ll definitely check out some of the author’s other books in the future.

"The Perfect Rom-Com" by Melissa Ferguson is a delightful and heartwarming novel that lives up to its title, offering readers a captivating blend of humor, romance, and insight into the literary world.​
The story follows Bryony Page, an aspiring author and dedicated ESL teacher, who attends a writers' conference with high hopes of securing a publishing deal for her manuscript. Her goal is not just personal success but also to raise awareness and funds for The Bridge, her grandmother's struggling organization where she teaches. After an unsuccessful pitch session, Bryony unexpectedly lands a ghostwriting opportunity for the renowned rom-com novelist, Amelia Benedict. She agrees to this arrangement on the condition that Jack Sterling, a prominent literary agent, also works to promote her own book. As Bryony's ghostwritten works propel Amelia to greater fame, she finds herself entangled in a complex relationship with Jack, leading to personal and professional challenges.​
Ferguson's writing is both witty and engaging, drawing readers into Bryony's journey with relatable characters and authentic scenarios. The novel offers a behind-the-scenes look at the publishing industry, highlighting the often-overlooked role of ghostwriters and the sacrifices they make. Bryony's dedication to her students and her grandmother's mission adds depth to her character, making her struggles and triumphs resonate on a personal level.​
The chemistry between Bryony and Jack is palpable, with their interactions filled with sharp banter and genuine emotion. Their evolving relationship adds a layer of complexity to the narrative, keeping readers invested in their story. The novel also addresses themes of identity, recognition, and the pursuit of one's passion, all wrapped in a charming romantic comedy.​
Readers have praised "The Perfect Rom-Com" for its clever plot and endearing characters. This book is an absolute delight! With witty banter, a touch of romance, and a fascinating look behind the literary curtain, this is a must-read for anyone who loves a feel-good story. A fellow reviewer commented, "I greedily devoured this book in one sitting. I've never read this author's work before, but I was charmed by her characters before the end of the first chapter."
In conclusion, "The Perfect Rom-Com" is a must-read for fans of contemporary romance and those interested in the intricacies of the publishing world. Melissa Ferguson delivers a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, making it a standout addition to the rom-com genre.
This was one book that kept me fully on my toes and just as the fellow reviewer mentioned above I personally have not read a book with the mixed emotions that it had. I was in awe and will be recommending this to my personal book lovers!

Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for an e-ARC.

For romance readers, The Perfect Rom-Com is a love letter. With two extremely relatable characters and a spectacularly lovely grand gesture at the end, this was the very definition of meet cute. I enjoyed reading this book!

Such a fun read. It was funny, emotional, and hopeful. Loved how it turned out. Can’t wait to read more from this author.

Content warnings: squeaky clean

Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for an advance copy of this ebook in exchange for my honest review.

Publication: February 11th, 2025
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Melissa Ferguson delivers a delightful, self-aware romance that plays with classic rom-com tropes while still feeling fresh and fun. With witty banter, lovable characters, and plenty of bookish charm, The Perfect Rom-Com is a love letter to romance readers. The humor and heart are perfectly balanced, making this a light yet satisfying read.


Thank You NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own

Melissa Ferguson is right up there with the best in writing rom-coms, and The Perfect Rom-Com fits that genre to a T! I laughed often, and the sweet romance and "meet cute" were wonderful.

Aspiring author Bryony Page attends her first writers conference with her first manuscript, brimming with optimism. She hopes that selling her book will benefit The Bridge where she teaches ESL as her full-time job. Her optimism is trampled by editor after editor who reads an excerpt an rejects her book without giving it what she feels is a fair chance. After one last pitch ends in another flaming rejection, she tries critiquing another author's book as a last-ditch effort to make a good impression on the agent, Jack Sterling. Her spot-on observations do impress him, but not enough to put her book out into the world. He does, however, have another idea.

Jack Sterling is used to seeing desperate authors, but none has been as persistent as Bryony. Her book is a monstrosity with way too many things going on, so there is no way any publisher will want it as is, and she refuses to have it edited. However, her critique of the manuscript he gave her as an example impresses him with her insightfulness, and he realizes she just may be the ghost writer he is looking for to write the next Amelia Benedict book. He offers her the job, and she accepts with one caveat: Jack must also sell her book.

No one could have ever predicted that Bryony's books would turn socialite Amelia Benedict into a household name, putting every book she writes on the best seller lists. She is so good that the publisher makes her the exclusive ghost writer for the brand. She writes and Amelia takes all the credit. She makes more money in royalties than she ever expected, but her book still isn't in the hands of an editor. On the up side, Jack has become one of her best friends, but he thinks she should be satisfied with the success she's already had. Can she convince him that her book just needs to see the light of day to be a success?

Prepare to snicker, guffaw, and outright belly laugh at the antics and misspoken idioms of Bryony's ESL students! They were hilarious! I also enjoyed the interactions of Bryony and Jack. He is very good at "talking her off the ledge" so to speak, every time she gets frustrated with Amelia, who comes across as the uber-spoiled rich girl she is.

Readers who enjoy romance with a heavy dose of comedy will love The Perfect Rom-Com. In my opinion, this book IS the perfect rom-com and I highly recommend it! I listened to this on the NetGalley app and the narrator is wonderful!

Thank you to netgallery for the arc.

I went into this completely blind, it was an enjoyable read but nothing to shout about from the rooftops.
I would like to preface this by saying I read this whilst getting out of a slump.
I didn’t feel any chemistry but it is perfect for a pallette cleanser.

What makes the perfect rom-com?⁣
⁣
Sweet and swoony with all the witty banter is a definite requirement for me. Melissa Ferguson books are always fun and flirty, consistently checking all those boxes.⁣
⁣
The Perfect Rom-Com is the perfect blend of humor and romance and was just a pure delight to read. ⁣
⁣
When aspiring author Bryony Page meets ruthless literary agent Jack Sterling, she ends up cutting a deal to become the ghostwriter for rom-com queen Amelia Benedict, in exchange for getting her manuscript published one day. When they end up roadtripping together on Amelia’s cross country book tour - in true rom-com fashion, they end up falling for each other, just when it feels like everything is about to fall apart.⁣
⁣
This was the most perfect meet cute, with two super lovable leads, ending in an epically adorable grand gesture… and it has one of the most hilariously hateable characters I’ve read to date - and I loved her, too, in the weirdest of ways.

Melissa Ferguson delivers yet another heartwarming and delightful read with The Perfect Rom-Com. This novel is a swoon-worthy, slow-burn, friends-to-lovers story that offers everything romance readers crave. Yet, it goes beyond the typical rom-com formula, reminding readers that real love isn’t a Hollywood fantasy; it takes effort, growth, and courage to reach “happily ever after.”

While Bryony and Jack’s chemistry crackles throughout The Perfect Rom-Com, their individual authenticity and charm steal the spotlight. Many would have abandoned their humble jobs to chase their dreams, but Bryony’s unwavering dedication to her ESL students added a beautiful depth to the narrative, showing that purpose and fulfillment don’t always come from fame or fortune. On the other hand, Jack faces his own reckoning as he learns that success isn’t all about strategy but vulnerability and sacrifice. 
 
Beyond the central love story, Melissa Ferguson masterfully crafts a vibrant supporting cast. By the novel’s end, Gloria, Penny, Serghei, and the others felt like old friends. 
 
The Perfect Rom-Com brilliantly balances lighthearted fun, relatable emotion, and meaningful takeaways. Whether you’re reading it with your girlfriends or curled up on the couch, it is the perfect pick-me-up to binge on the weekend. Once again, Melissa Ferguson proves why she’s a standout voice in contemporary romance. Her latest release will leave you smiling long after you turn the final page.

It wasn't that this book wasn't bad, but it was a bit forgettable for me.

I immediately didn't like Jack (he was so mean to Bryony at first???) and that made it hard for me to enjoy the eventual romance. I actually didn't like or connect with any of the characters in this book, and I felt like there was cruel rhetoric towards Amelia (calling her a sociopath seems a bit much?)

Also, I think this book needed more editing passes. At one point, the character mentions "one of those Zootopia movies," and there's only one? Maybe nit-picky, but there were some other syntax issues I hope got fixed in the finished copies.

Not my favorite, but I hope this book finds its right audience!

Thank you to Thomas Nelson to Netgalley for the e-book in exchange for my honest, unbiased review. THE PERFECT ROM-COM is out now!

Arc Review ~ The Perfect Rom-Com by Melissa Ferguson

5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This rom-com by Melissa Ferguson was such a delight to read. Melissa has crafted such a lovely story. It was witty, charming and an incredibly fun read.

I was immediately drawn to our FMC Bryony, an ESL teacher and aspiring author who falls into the job of ghostwriting for one of the most popular and entitled authors in the literary romance world, all in the hopes of having her own novel published. This engaging plot line along with the beautifully written friendship and romance between Bryony and Jack, her literary agent, had me flying through the pages. The dialogue was witty, the characters were incredibly likeable and I really enjoyed the focus on Bryony’s journey.

The Perfect Rom-Com was a fun and heartfelt read. It pulled at my heartstrings. I ugly cried. That’s a 5 star read for me. I couldn’t put it down.

Thank you Melissa and Thomas Nelson Fiction for giving me the opportunity to read and review The Perfect Rom-Com.