The perfect rom com. Having loved Nora goes off Script i was excited to read this and it has the same level of great characterisation and brilliant one liners. Like others i was expecting the story line with Jack to develop into something else - but on reflection the narrative of Jane's self discovery didn't need more with him. I sped through it and highly recommend.

.Annabel Monaghan’s writing style is very easy to follow and digestible, but I will say the pacing seemed quite off for me in how the two main characters’s chemistry grew- it was very insta-love. It felt like their previous encounter was just thrown in to make the their transition to lovers more believable but for me it fell short. I did not believe the overall chemistry between the two characters, and being a romance, the chemistry being believable is the whole point. There was also some instances with the dialogue where it felt a bit robotic or didn’t match up and i kept having to go back and reread parts. Also, the third act conflict just seemed useless to me. It felt unnatural and as if it were just randomly thrown in there to create some sort of ‘oh no’ moment.

Although this book fell short for me, I know Annabel Monaghan is a widely loved and respected author and I know this book would be perfect for the right people.

Sunny and fun and just too good. I am unfamiliar with this author's other work but thoroughly enjoyed this reading experience.

𝑰𝒕'𝒔 𝒂 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒔𝒕𝒐𝒓𝒚 𝒃𝒚 𝑨𝒏𝒏𝒂𝒃𝒆𝒍 𝑴𝒐𝒏𝒂𝒈𝒉𝒂𝒏

★ ★ ★ ★ ★5/5

𝘐'𝘥 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘰𝘯 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘵𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘰𝘧 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘴𝘢𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘮 𝘩𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘺. 𝘓𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘐'𝘥 𝘩𝘶𝘯𝘵 𝘥𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩 𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘯 𝘪𝘵 𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘳.

TAKE MY WHOLE FREAKING HEART!!! THIS BOOK LIVES RENT FREE IN MY HEART<3!

Okay, this book was an absolute *treat*. Imagine the perfect blend of second-chance (imo), old Hollywood sparkle, and enemies-to-lovers banter that’s so adorable. Dan's parents, his brothers his WHOLE FREAKING FAMILY>>> I felt like I was living with them. And the way they treat Jane? WHOLESOME.

Jane Jackson used to be America's sweetheart—a teen sitcom star with a million-watt smile. Now she's grown up, trying to prove herself as a serious producer in an industry that only wants to remember her as “that girl from that show.” When her dream project teeters on the edge of cancellation, she blurts out a lie—one so big it could either save her career or blow it up completely. The only person who can help her? Dan Finnegan. Of course. He’s got moody eyes, a mop of dark hair, and a talent for pushing every single one of Jane’s buttons. He’s also, infuriatingly, *really good* at what he does.

The chemistry between Jane and Dan crackles off the page. Their banter is gold, the slow-burn tension is delicious, and underneath all the snark and side-eyes is something real, vulnerable, and unexpectedly sweet. Watching Jane wrestle with her past and try to build something new for herself is heartwarming—and often hilarious. She’s messy, determined, sharp-tongued, and so easy to root for.

It was such a lovely book I felt the connection with it at the very first page and it felt so realistic ah I love this! I can't even describe how much I love this book and how this felt so real. And their little argument about the notebook movie? Adorable. I love Dan and Jane and how their relationship took turn IT WAS SOO BEAUTIFUL! I wish I could just write every detail, every moment and every emotion I felt but that's not possible for me because I'm out of words :) OH MY GOD I LOVE HIM. Y'ALL HE'S MY MAN!

By the end, I was fully charmed. This book is for anyone who’s ever tried to reinvent themselves, or just wanted to read a rom-com with a big heart and a ton of laughs. Highly recommend if you love complicated characters, showbiz shenanigans, and a love story that sneaks up on you (and then refuses to let go).

I absolutely loved this book. Thank you so much to Aria & Aries and Netgalley for an ARC of this book, I enjoyed it so much.
This is a perfect beach read with plenty of romance, a dash of family chaos and a whole lot of heart. It reminded me of a rom-com from the 2000s, like How To Lose A Guy In Ten Days. I found it really easy to connect with these characters once the story got going, and I felt like Jane's character flaws, while frustrating at times, were utterly believable.
I also love stories about big messy families that embrace newcomers with open arms, and this story certainly delivered that. As Jane is welcomed into the Finnegan family there were moments that truly made my heart melt between the characters. When it came to Dan and Jane, I felt the chemistry between them was so well done, and I was not ready for their story to end.
This book made me feel starry and happy when I finished it, and I will absolutely be diving into Annabel Monaghan's other books after this. Highly recommend for a lovely beach read!

I have read a few of this author’s books but sadly I just don’t connect with her stories. I struggle to find them engaging.

Wow this book was really a work of art! I feel like I’ve highlighted somthing on each page as the writing was astonishing! I fell in love with the characters and how they grow to love each other is just perfect ! The perfect summer read and an amazing, funny, beautiful romance 🫶🏼

I recently jumped into It’s a Love Story by Annabel Monaghan during a weekend city break, and it’s the kind of book that makes for the perfect holiday read! ☀️
We meet Jane, a former child actor turned studio executive, who's determined to bring her dream script to life. When her plans hit a snag, she makes a rash promise to get the famous pop star Jack Quinlan to write a song for her film. To reach Jack, Jane reluctantly turns to Dan, a colleague and her former crush, who she now despises.

Conveniently, Jack is set to perform in Dan's hometown, so they decide to stay at Dan's family home while they try to convince Jack to get involved.
True to its title, It’s a Love Story this is a romance, but it’s not without its share of bumps along the way.

If you’re on the lookout for a lighthearted summer read featuring a charming cast and plenty of drama, this might just be the book for you!

A huge thank you to netgalley and Aria & Aries for providing me with an early copy of this delightful read!

wow I loved this so much more than I thought I would!! It only being 230 pages was surprising and what was even more surprising was that I was actually attached to and invested in the story in that short while!! This is the first book I’ve read by Annabel Monaghan and definitely won’t be the last!!
The characters felt so extremely realistic and the family dynamic, friendship and love did too. There were some absolutely beautiful and heart touching quotes that I had to reread a few times🥹 it was so fast paced and the side plot was really fun and interesting too, I absolutely loved the ending and seeing Jane realise who she truly was and do something for herself. A perfect spring/summer read, I had so much fun🩷

Thank you NetGalley for the arc🫶🏼

“Something out of nothing, and also something out of everything.”

"When you smile at me, I feel like I want to capture it But it's not the regular way like when I see something beautiful and I want to photograph it. When you smile it does something to me, I feel it in my chest, and I just want to figure out how to get you to do it again."

"Want to hear something crazy?" I ask.
"Everything you say is a little crazy, Jane. Doesn't bother me a bit anymore."

I work for the publisher. This is a great romance book, very sweet with lovely characters. Would reccomend to romance readers.

3.5⭐️

Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for giving me this arc in exchange for an honest review.

I had a good time with this book but unfortunately it fell a little flat for me in parts. I did absolutely love the writing so I will definitely be reading more of Annabel’s books. So many quotes I had underlined (when Dan talks about her smile oh my god it was actually the cutest thing ever I was swooning!!)

What fell a little flat in this for me was I just didn’t feel overly invested in the characters until the end. I didn’t really believe in them together but I will say the ending had me so engaged and I was totally rooting for them. The plot didn’t overly captivate me. I understand this is more of a character driven story but I didn’t overly connect to the characters until towards the end.

An issue I had with this was how quickly they came to love each other. This book spans over a week and I think them falling for each other happened too quickly - a week is hardly any time at all! It did make sense for this story but just thinking it was too quick for real life.

The conflict at the end made sense but I didn’t like how Jane acted although she made up for her actions by the end.

Although I wish this book resonated with me a bit more I still would absolutely recommend it!

More than just a ‘love story’; this is a story of self-discovery, self-compassion and healing.

FMC Jane has spent a lifetime feeling like the butt of the joke. Attempting to move on from her past, growing up as the punchline of an adolescent TV show, Jane is determined to prove that she can be a successful, career driven woman. A creative executive for Clearwater Studios, Jane has found what she thinks is the perfect script to launch her career and must team up with her one time crush turned rival, Dan, to make the film happen.

From their first meeting, the chemistry between Dan and Jane is apparent, however, Jane’s insecurities get in the way, causing a rift between the two. After being forced to work together, they embark on a journey from rivals to friends to soulmates. Getting to know each other on a deeper level, they share their vulnerabilities, their perceived flaws and past traumas, building a true connection. Through this connection, they each gain a better sense of who they are and what they want individually before coming together.

I loved Jane’s growth and the way Dan allowed her to work through all of her ‘stuff’, supporting her as she dropped her walls and allowed people to see who she really was. The banter between the two is perfect; the romance is sweet and slow; and the spice is mild.

Set against the cosy backdrop of a charming beachside community, Dan and Jane’s romance unfolds over a week spent at Dan’s family home, surrounded by his parents and siblings. During their stay, they inevitably have to share a bedroom; are mercilessly tormented by Dan’s siblings; counselled by Dan’s parents and thrust into the middle of the family’s beautifully chaotic lives. I thoroughly enjoyed the big family vibe, the private jokes, the comfort food and the warm, welcoming feel of coming together. I loved this family and the way they embraced Jane’s presence in their home, giving her the family feels she’d always craved and I desperately want to spend time in their kitchen where “love happens over breakfast”.

With thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the advanced reader copy.

This is the second book by Annabel Monaghan that I've read and I am starting to become a big fan of her writing. What a great read! I absolutely adored this - the storyline was great and it was so captivating. I can't wait to read more.

Annabel Monaghan novels are summer in book for me - she instantly transports you to a hazy, summery location and this one was no exception.

It’s a Love Story follows former child star Jane who is desperate to get a new film made - only problem is she’ll need the help of Jack, her first kiss and a man she hasn’t spoken to for years.

In comes her work nemesis Dan, and the pair take a trip to try and persuade Jack to write a song for their film.

This was a sweet love story with a lot of kicking your feet moments but it’s definitely my least favourite of Monaghan’s books - something about the characters felt less real to me than her previous work but I still enjoyed it.

It’s a love story - 4.5 stars ✨

What a start to the year!!
I went into this blind and honestly loved the experience. Being my first Annabel Monaghan I was surprised it’s taken me this long to read her books. The writing gave me comfort feels of Emily Henry and Abby Jimenez, like the feeling of a warm hug. Watching Jane’s character develop over the course of the book was beautiful while having the moments of humour and banter throughout. The perfect balance of everything. Excited to read more of Annabel’s books in the future!

I really enjoyed this book from Annabel Monaghan. I adore her writing and it is so easy to read whilst also being super descriptive and captivating! I loved this story and the romance beautiful!

I always look forward to Annabel’s books and this is another book I will think about for a long time! I would definitely recommend!

Thank you to Netgalley and Aries Fiction for an ARC copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

Thank you Aria & Aries for providing this ARC for free via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

This was my first Annabel Monaghan book, so I had no idea what to expect.

I was instantly drawn in by the hilarious inner monologue of our FMC. I found her humour blunt in the best possible way.

I really appreciated the natural build up of Jane and Dan’s relationship. Their love was the quiet kind, without the need for grand gestures. Also, you know it’s a true enemies to lovers when you have to double check he’s the love interest, so well done Annabel.

Unfortunately, I found myself losing interest at times due to the slower pace. It felt like not a lot happened plot wise. I also found the third act a bit frustrating, as Jane seemed determined to sabotage their relationship, despite Dan’s attempts to support her.

Overall, I’d still encourage fans of slow burn, cozy romance to give this one a try.

I have yet to find an Annabel Monaghan book which doesn’t instantly make it into my favourite romances of all time, and this latest is no exception - I couldn’t put it down! This was a great storyline, and I loved our main characters Jane and Dan, and their excellent chemistry! Plus his whole family stole my heart, along with the gorgeous sounding Long Island location.

I keep saying it, but I really think Annabel should be every bit as hyped as Emily Henry - she’s my favourite romance writer!

It’s a Love Story made me smile. An enveloping, comforting read. The perfect beach companion!

Jane Jackson found success at an early age playing a character on a Nickelodeon-style popular sitcom between the ages of twelve and sixteen. Now thirty-three, Jane works as a Creative Executive for a major studio but has yet to see one of her scripts green-lit for a movie.

And Jane holds Cinematographer Dan Finnegan responsible for much of her professional failure, ever since the fateful day he publicly rejected a new script she was very excited by. And now he’s trying to sabotage her again – this time he loves her script choice, but feels it needs something extra to appeal commercially. Not willing to let Dan quash her dreams yet again, Jane promises she can get famous singer Jack Quinlan to write and record a song for the movie soundtrack – even though Jane only met him briefly on set, nearly twenty years ago. Uh-oh! Jane’s faced with quite the pickle.

When Jack doesn’t answer her calls, Jane reluctantly admits to Dan that she doesn’t know the singer as well as she pretended to. Surprisingly, Dan has a solution. Jack Quinlan will be playing at a music festival in his hometown the same weekend of Dan’s parent’s 40th anniversary party. He invites Jane to spend the week with his family in order to track Jack down, the golden opportunity for Jane to pitch her idea to him. Out of options, Jane unenthusiastically accepts.

It’s going to be an unforgettable life changing week for Jane and Dan!

I’m not a ‘Swiftie’, but because I don’t live under a rock, even I know that the title of this book It’s a Love Story is a line from Taylor Swift’s first mainstream popular song Love Story. This novel was so sweet and adorable, and as it stands my favourite so far by Annabel Monaghan. And it featured so many of my favourite tropes – slow burn, hate to love, enemies to lovers, acquaintances to lovers, friends to lovers, workplace/work colleagues romance, slight open-door but mainly closed, forced close proximity, and forced to share a bedroom.

I loved Jane and Dan’s teasing, comebacks, fun banter, and the heated arguments about ridiculous things. I appreciated how much they slowly grew to care about each other, and had one another’s back, even though neither were ready to admit it. I adored their ‘meet cute’, and all their romantic moments, and physical admiration. And of course there was their sizzling chemistry.

Dan’s Long Island hometown of Oak Shore had everything I could possibly want in a romantic setting - small town cozy vibes, a gorgeous beach, bike rides around the picturesque town, and a rustic farmhouse in the countryside. Not to mention all the glorious food - the delicious home cooking, beachside dining, cookouts on the beach, and ice cream at the local diner. The Finnegan family were warm, big-hearted, and welcoming, creating a sense of belonging that was missing from only child Jane’s life growing up with a single mother and no father in the picture.

As you know I like my romances with a side of unresolved trauma and past baggage where during the course of the novel, and with the support of a loving trusting accepting partner, a character’s journey leads to healing, confronting one’s past, and finding your people and your happy place. It’s a Love Story contained a lot of real-world issues like abandonment and absent fathers, bullying, loneliness and feeling unaccepted for being different, and the pain and rejection of a first crush. Also, the downside and exploitative nature of growing up in the spotlight and experiencing puberty in front of a TV audience.

I really loved the 2009 Sandra Bullock movie The Proposal and It’s a Love Story had a fair bit in common with that. A complete win for me, and I’m sure It’s a Love Story will make a lot of reader’s top favourite contemporary romances list for 2025.

I’d like to thank Netgalley UK, Aria & Aries, and Annabel Monaghan for the e-ARC.

Publication Date: 29th May 2025.

annabel monaghan books are definitely hit or miss for me, and unfortunately i did not love this one... i found myself not being very interested in the plot but i think that this kind of romance just maybe isnt for me. if you liked her book nora goes of script, i think you would also like this one! i found it very easy to bing but unfortunaetly DNF'd it at 50%