Thank you to Berkley Publishing Group and NetGalley for this ARC.

Meh, it was cute. Maybe I expected a little more when I sat down to read this, but it felt predictable. I wanted to LOVE it, since it had all the possibilities to give us "pretty woman" vibes (my fav movie every)
Now, if you are just looking for a cutie, reliable book to read- this is definitely for you. If you are looking for something deep, that makes you feel on a visceral level- no.
A very quick read- good romance!
Rounding up to a 3⭐️

Sometimes, the title says it all . . . for better or worse. Here we are, back again in Omaha, Lynn Painter's hometown and well-trod setting of most of her fiction, with her newest set of lovers, Abi Mariano, maid / grocery clerk / MFA candidate, and Declan (Dex) Powell, millionaire moonlighting as a modern day Robin Hood.

I’ve unabashedly fallen for all of Painter’s MMCs, even those (maybe especially those?) in her YA offerings, and Dex isn’t without his charm. He’s definitely not my favorite of her book boyfriends. He’s more not not my favorite. I feel that way about Maid for Each Other on the whole. It’s fun, has those moments of the ridiculous where I laugh out loud, makes me long for a really good kiss (which, IMHO, is the most Lynn Painter thing of all), and I really like that the main characters actually like each other and are each other’s most fun and favoritest people ever. However, there’s something in this story, which feature a fish-out-of-water couple and all the best tropes - we’re talking enemies-to-friends-to-fake-dating-to-maybe-real-dating-to-one-bed-only-to-lovers-because (as the title says) soulmates stuff here - that doesn’t have that Lynn Painter spark that I’ve come to expect.

Maybe it’s because this book read like an amalgamation of so many of her previous works - how Abi’s down-to-earth struggling realness clashing with Declan’s gorgeous, powerful, seeming soullessness reminded me of Mr. Wrong Number. Or the fake dating (here playing out in a very transactional manner, as Abi’s getting 40K to pay off her student loans for one weekend playing Dex’s fictional girlfriend, who, as FATE would have it, he named Abby) that had shades of The Love Wager. There were other little callbacks - how Dex would call Abi rather than text her at just the right moment (very Accidentally Amy) - that spoke to Painter’s growing catalog of adult protagonists. It’s not that I didn’t appreciate these, it’s that I couldn’t help but compare Abi and Dex to her previous couples and, while I wholeheartedly rooted for them throughout, didn’t fall under their spell in the same way I have for the rest. A large part of this definitely came with the last line. As I tell my students when they want to forgo writing conclusions, last lines (like first lines) are important. And this one left an aftertaste in my mouth.

After a whirlwind romance in which we see both parties struggling to define their “ship” - Abi because she’s scared that Dex will grow bored with her and leave her by the wayside because the man drops literal thousands of dollars on things that mean nothing to him and Declan because he’s not looking for any type of relationship, especially one outside of his small and elite circle - there’s the inevitable dark moment that causes the breakup of whatever type of ship this was. And, surprising to no reader, it’s a Pretty Woman moment (I’ve got to give credit to Painter, she forewent the obvious callout to this inspiration until the penultimate moments of the text when Abi’s best friend draws attention to it) when Roman, Dex’s best friend and partner in charitable giving, unthinkingly invites, or rather, propositions, Abi to pretend to be his girlfriend at an upcoming wedding. We cringe for him, especially as Abi and Dex have given in to their made-for-each-other chemistry and slept together, and her and, by default, ourselves. It’s . . . not good. Even if we saw it coming from the first deal that Abi and Dex made in their heretofore transactional relationship.

The cringe factor only increases when Declan, post whatever-ship break-up, finds Abi’s notebook and reads her character description for a short story that features a character who just so happens to look just like him (and, oh yeah, conveniently has the same name) but acts like a true out-of-touch billionaire villain. Since it’s a rom-com, and a Lynn Painter one at that, there is a happy ending in store but the speed with which Dex forgives her and, ultimately, she him, was a little too neat and tidy (maid puns!). It, like the last line (I know, I didn’t forget about that. I’m taking the scenic route), is a little too Hallmark for me. Something I’ve never accused this author of before. Do I believe that Abi and Dex are meant to be? Yes. Do I want them to live their best, most funnest lives together? Roger that. Did I puke a little in my mouth when Declan, in THE LAST LINE, corrects fiance Abi that their initial deal didn’t (almost) cost him 40k but rather his “whole entire heart”? Yuck, and yes.

Don’t get me wrong. I’m recommending this book to all my bookish besties. (Honestly, I don’t think Lynn Painter could do wrong by me.) The nods to Jane Austen still make me swoon, the possibility that opposites do indeed attract and smooth out each other’s rough edges (forgive the analogy as science isn’t my strong suit), the wackadoo gifts that show that the MMC really sees the FMC (here in the form of a bouquet made of asthma inhalers), and Painter’s requisite feline furball (“Little Dexxie”, whom I need more of) are worth the price of admission. So, while it’s potentially cheesy to think your one could be out there, waiting for you where you least expect it, I’m happy to hope and go along for the ride.

Many thanks to NetGalley for an early ebook copy of Lynn Painter's new book! While I do think Painter might be better at YA romances than adult romances, this was a fairly standard (not that smutty) read, which I found to be enjoyable. The ply centers around Abi, a grad student who works part time as a maid, and Declan, an incredibly rich man whose apartment she cleans when he is out of town. When Abi's apartment has an infestation, she decides that it wouldn't hurt to stay overnight at Dex's place, but that quickly is revealed to not be a great idea. After Declan finds out, he and Abi strike up a deal for her to play his fake girlfriend for a series of events, and naturally, they catch feelings along the way. Overall, this was a fine read, but it didn't super stand out to me compared to some other romances currently on the market. The characters were fun and the relationship was sweet, if albeit unrealistic. A great, quick read.

he yearning, the pining, the fake dating, the slow burn, the passionate kisses: all good reasons to read this book! I loved every minute of it!
I have to admit I'm a sucker for fake-dating romances. Lynn Painter once again creates a story that has my entire heart tripping over itself. Chef's kiss on this one.
When Declan wants his family and colleagues off his back, he invents a girlfriend named Abby.
When Abi's appartment has an infestation and she doesn't have the money to stay at a hotel, she decides to stay in the appartment she's cleaning and wash the bed the next day. No harm no foul right? Little did she know she'd wake up to the owner's parents thinking she's his girlfriend the day.
The story unravels from here with Declan asking her to play along for the weekend, and Abi agreeing.
But Abi knows the hot billionaire could never be friends with someone like her, let alone return her feelings. But as she discovers he is not as cold and unfeeling as she thought, she can't help herself falling in love with him.

High tension, flirtatious bickering, and hilarious banter? Sign me up.

This book was an adorable read for those who enjoy slow burn and humorous romance. Watching both characters navigate the complicated feelings they develop and slowly come to terms with them was a charming experience and one that I'd recommend to anyone looking for a simultaneously lighthearted and emotional book. Both Abi and Declan were easy to adore, making the dual-POV even more exciting. It was incredibly easy to imagine this book like it were a movie in my head due to the liveliness of the book, which made it even more enchanting.

I'm incredibly glad I picked up this book and cannot wait to recommend it to friends and customers when its published!

Lynn Painter's Maid for Each Other was such a fun read! Declan, the super busy EVP, and Abi, the housekeeper, end up working together in ways they definitely didn't see coming. On the surface, they seem totally different, but like they always say, opposites definitely attract.
The slow-burn romance is honestly so cute there's no insta-love, just two people taking the time to figure each other out and realizing they have more in common than they expected. The chemistry is definitely there, but it's those little moments that really made me root for them as a couple.
The pacing is on point too it never feels rushed. The side characters are great because they add depth without stealing the spotlight from Declan and Abi. If you’re in the mood for a rom-com that's light but still has some emotional depth, Maid for Each Other is definitely worth reading. It’s sweet, funny, and surprisingly touching, making it perfect for fans of slow-burn romance.

⚠️I was gifted an ALC- ARC courtesy of Berkeley Publishing and this is my honest opinion.

This is my second Lyn Painter novel, and I have to say I'm completely here for her vibe! Just like "Accidentally Amy," this one delivers with its super fast-paced and buzzy storytelling. The romance moves quickly, almost too quickly at first, but then there's that perfect scene that enables me to suspend my disbelief and simply enjoy this book for what it truly is: a fun, fast, fiery read that makes you smile and have the absolute best time.

My only gripe was that a pivotal plot point depends on a key side character doing something that felt distinctly uncharacteristic, which momentarily pulled me out of the story's enchanting bubble.

Go for this one for the irresistible vibes, the refreshingly written millionaires, and the satisfying HEA. Just don't investigate the plot too deeply though—you might just trip over a crack.

A fast paced read that’s lots of fun as long as you don’t take it too seriously.

Abi is a busy student working at a grocery store and for a housekeeping service. When she’s forced to find other accommodations briefly while her home is being treated for an infestation she can’t afford a hotel. She figures what’s the harm in crashing temporarily at the penthouse she cleans, the owner is never there anyway. Imagine her surprise when she wakes up to find his parents in the kitchen bursting with excitement over finally meeting Declan’s girlfriend. She just goes with it.

What’s the harm, right?

Later when she’s working the check out she’s surprised to find an angry Declan in her line threatening to have her fired. But Declan has a big problem himself. He’s made up a fake girlfriend to make himself appear more grounded to increase his odds of being promoted and of course his parents are chomping at the bit to meet this lady also. Abi desperately needs the income from both of her jobs so the two decide to compromise and agree that will she attend a work function on his arm and play the part of doting girlfriend.

While there’s nothing here that’s innovative this is an easy comfort read. I flew through it on a long car ride the humor and swoon worthy moments kept me entertained.

Declan’s character needed more development. Even though we get both POVs throughout the book it still felt like I barely knew him for some reason.

Total rom-com vibes had me picturing this as a film.

Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley for an Advance Reading Copy for review! These are my unbiased opinions.

This book was utter perfection, I binged it in a sitting because it was THAT good!!! Lynn Painter has done it again and I'm always so in awe of her compelling writing. This was my first adult romance by her because I usually read all of her YA's but I will definitely be reading all of her books in the future. This was romantic, funny, and it also felt emotional?! I related so much to Abi and that's why I also felt that this story was so much more enjoyable for me.

My sweet girl Abi!!! I would truly be her best friend in real life so she never has to feel alone again!!! I am so happy she found love with Declan but I also loved how her character was so multifaceted and she was kind, sweet, and funny... SO SO FUNNY!!! I LAUGHED OUT LOUD in so many moments I swear the whole facade has me crying in laughter which I felt made this story (the comedy).

DECLANN!!!! the man that you are, he has officially been added to my list of book boyfriends because he was just THAT MAN, the way he cared for Abi and loved her I swear thats all I want in life. I ADORED his character and it really gives you a different perspective into the lives of those we often deem untouchable just because they are rich. A person is so much more than that and this was evident with Declan's character. I LOVE HIM MY SWEET MAN.

this book was everything and more I can wait to run and get my physical copy when it comes out and also the SPICE okay mrs. lynn painter I was not expecting that but i thoroughly enjoyed it nonetheless. My favorite moments without a doubt were the sweet glances, soft touches, sweet words. I CANT this book was so perfect and I will forever hold each word, phrase, and chapter close to my heart.

this is a letter to the hopeless romantics who feel alone but lynn painter is here to take care of our hearts with wonderful men like Declan Powell.

Abi is forced to fund a place to stay when her apartment becomes infested. She can’t afford a hotel. She has a job as a maid and she cleans an apartment for a man who works out of town. In the morning, she runs into his parents who have come in to town for a meeting. They think she is his fake girlfriend Abby. She happens to have the same name. Dexter tracks down Abi at her second job and threatens to have her fired for squatting at his home. Later that day he comes up with the idea to have her pretend to be his girlfriend Abby at the shareholders meeting for his company. She agrees if he will pay her 40,000. She will be able to pay off her student loans with that money.

First off let me say I’m a Lynn Painter fan. This is a cute book. It has some of my favorite tropes fake dating and forced proximity. It is heavy on sass and light on spice. It’s a dual POV. It has Pretty Woman vibes and has pop culture references to Pysch, Taylor Swift, Pride and Prejudice and Gilmore Girls. The references made my heart happy.

If you are looking for a fluffy romance, this is a great choice.

Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing group for a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Unfortunately this was a miss for me, the concept seemed fun and I love Lynn painter, however it felt juvenile. The FMC acted childish in ways that didn’t seem cute.

Overall I wish it felt a bit more adult, fake dating is always a fav of mine.

Cute, romantic novel! Abi gets caught spending the night in a rich client's apartment, and then pretends to be his girlfriend in order to make his job and family happy. I loved the relationship between Abi and Declan, especially when Abi is acting like she is madly in love. Overall, it's a great, quick read.

I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion.

Every time I thought I knew where the plot was going to go, it surprised me in the best way!
I loved both the humor and the characters in this book! I really connected with them and was invested in their story together.

Tropes:
One bed
Fake relationship
Down to earth FMC

Two 🌶️ are what I usually give to open door spice, but this book was open door while not giving any details whatsoever. If you're squeamish about spicy details, this will work for you!

This was a typical Painter novel for me. Fake dating with a rambunctious red head. Was this completely outrageous and a bit nonsensical? Absolutely. Did I drink it up like I was a salivating dog? Absolutely. In a book like this, you need to suspend disbelief. You need to enter the romantic mindset. Logic is secondary. Fun, flirty chemistry reigns supreme. Their banter and natural chemistry stole the show. The runway train of their lie kept getting bigger and bigger throughout but of course, it all worked out in the end because of true love. This book is pure romantic cinematic nonsense. And I’d sit through it all again.

Four stars for the newest Painter novel. Was not my favorite by her, but definitely not the least favorite. It was a fun time without much follow up thoughts.

Thank you NetGalley and Berkley publishing for the advanced reader copy of Painter's newest rom-com novel!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫

🎧Song Pairing: The Story of Us - Taylor Swift

💭What I thought would happen:

Maybe some sort of Cinderella retelling?

📖What actually happens:

🧼Maid for a rich man
🥵Hot millionaire
🤝🏻Fake dating deal
👗Cinderella makeover
😉One bed

🗯Thoughts/sassy musings:

Lynn!!!! What a queen! This funny woman does it again! Seriously was LOLing from the beginning.

Calling all fans of Pretty Woman (without the whole hooker thing -a quote from She’s All That). If hot millionaires get you hot - don’t skimp on this one!

I just adored this right from page one. I couldn’t put it down. Note I was like less than a week postpartum and still wanted to prioritize this book (while partaking in lots of baby snuggles). This book kept me going while stuck in the NICU 😭

Such a cute heartwarming story. Abi is a maid and Declan is a super rich hot guy. Declan offers Abi a deal she can’t refuse, but will reality and fiction blur? Both characters were fun and I enjoyed both pov’s. This book put a smile on my face and that’s all I wanted. This delivered.

This was sooooo cute. Loved the characters and their dynamic. Perfect amount of sass, cuteness and spice. I love a fake dating trope.

I’ve never read a book by this author before but after a few chapters I was an immediate fan! Such a perfect cute quick read!

This was sweet. I always forget how quirky Lynn Painter's books are when I start them and it always shakes me up a little. Still, I enjoyed this and was a perfect fluffy read! I adored Declan and loved how he pined for Abi. But I didn't feel a huge connection to them.

This was a romcom lovers DREAM. It was nostalgic, cutesy, and so fun. I love a good billionaire romance, and the fact that this one was also enemies to lovers? I WAS IN HEAVEN