Well, Actually by Mazey Eddings
Contemporary romance. Second chance, 1st person.
Eva Kitt uses her social media presence for journalism though her following numbers aren’t strong. One night after a bit of partying, she hears a show about her first college boyfriend, extolling his virtues. Eva is so shocked to hear about the righteous Riley Cooper, she posts an explosive and eye opening restatement of their relationship from college. Needless to say, she didn’t have any nice things to say about him. When they agree to do a show together, Riley convinces Eva to go on six dates together, proving he’s a better man than she remembers. And so starts her falling for him all over again.

🎧 I alternated between an ebook and an audiobook. The performance is narrated by Ariela Crow. She does a great job with voices of the two main characters with a clear distinction between Eva and Riley. There are also clear voices for the recurring characters such as Eva’s two bosses. Emotions are vivid and I was often exasperated by Eva again going off on an emotional tangent of some kind. It was phenomenal acting projecting a breathless quality at the end of a rant with Riley always calming in the wild storm.
I enjoyed the audiobook for the personality that I didn’t get from reading.
I did listen at @.5 and slightly higher for closer to my reading and conversation speed.

Rylie is clearly smitten with Eva and always has been. Getting his second chance has him all in. For him, I felt bad when he revealed about the death in his family and how it impacted him. I’m happy he got his hea.

Lively, often humorous, and a good romance.
3.5

I received a copy of this from NetGalley and Macmillan Audio.

his is my first time reading a Mazzey Eddings book, but it will certainly not be my last. I honestly wanted this book originally on the cover alone, but after reading the premise I had a feeling I would love it and I certainly did!!

Well, Actually takes banter to another level. I’m talking WITTY BANTER. Eva also brings black cat to another level with her sarcasm and use of insults as a love language. And golden retriever, Rylie gives right back to Eva, but in the most tender and precious way. This guy was fabulous. His mission to destroy toxic masculinity one podcast at a time, as well as making it his mission to love Eva and accept her just as she was had me swooning so hard. There was a lot to unpack and it was nothing if not messy, but in the best way! Filled with pop culture references, relevant social issues and a second chance love story with humor, heart and heat, I had a hard time putting this one down!

I absolutely loved this book. I inhaled it in an evening. The brand of humor in this book is so close to mine, I was given no choice but to love it. Eva and Rylie's chemistry untterly drips off the page as they throw barbs back and forth. The antagonistic, but still caring, relationship is delightful and so well done.

I loved the exploration of the "right person, wrong time" aspect of their relationship. These two trauna-laden babies had so much to work through and it was wonderful to see them learn and grow.

Every single important figure in Eva's life was a complete piece of shit, from her dad to her bosses. I'm glad Eva was able to stick it to Landry and William but I wish we actually saw the comuppance.

Ultimately, this book was wonderful and Eva and Rylie are precious babes who deserve the best.

Thanks St. Martin’s Press for this digital ARC. I am infatuated. No, seriously, I think I’m in love with Eva, our grumpy and mean FMC. I love her humor, her style, her desire to keep shoving her feelings down so deep inside and then layering sarcasm on top. I love her. I think I am her. This book was fabulous. I laughed out loud as it was witty and refreshing. I teared up as it stirred up some thoughts and it made me want to never have this book end. I was watching the percentage left of the book increase on my kindle and I was freaking out.

Eva is the host of a show where she eats room temperature hot dogs with “celebrities” while keeping a straight face and being mean and flirty. She’s great at it and she hates it. During a drunken weak moment she finds a video online of a man from her past that leads her to “stitch” the video with her commentary. It wasn’t complimentary of him and his skills from back in the day. It goes viral and leads to her employer pivoting this into more content. Thing is, that man, Rylie, has other plans and convinces her to go on 6 dates with him to make up for their past. This leads to some HILARIOUS moments and then some emotional ones.

I don’t understand why some reviewers called Eva “too mean.” She was perfectly mean. Perfectly right to protect herself and her heart from this weird man in funny crewnecks that drives a PT Cruiser. She was the perfect black cat and Rylie was the perfect golden retriever who was OBSESSED with her. Their dynamic worked and I had such a fun time. It was spicy and sweet. So many sweet moments. God, I loved this book.

Do you ever just "right person, wrong time"?

This is the perfect book to encompass that phrase... Which also means it's SECOND CHANCE - my favorite trope!! And it was done sooo well. I cannot recommend this book enough.

Eva is the ultimate Black Cat to Rylie's Golden Retriever. Eva uses make-up, fashion, and attitude as a shield to all her inner fears and hurt from past traumas. Her backstory is heartbreaking and I felt for her. But I also respected the "Hot Girl" persona she'd put on to protect herself. She makes a lot of jokes at the expense of Rylie but I loved how she thought of him as someone only she could make fun of. And I also loved how he clearly liked being made fun of by her. A couple that teases each other stays together (or something like that).

This book deals with some heavier themes and topics but they're handled so beautifully. I mentioned that Eva had a heartbreaking backstory but Rylie's is even more tragic. I do think content warnings should be followed for folks that need to take caution, but I really loved the sadder themes in this book. You could really see how each of the main characters were affected in their own ways by their individual traumas.

There is a particular brand of humor in this book and I really enjoyed it. It's the type used to distract or diffuse tension but it's quippy and entertaining all the same. I loved how Rylie was always quick to respond or clapback depending on the jokes Eva made. They had so much chemistry, it was practically coming off the page.

The queer rep in this book is perfect! I'm pansexual like Eva and I loved how her identity was discussed. Both main characters are queer and there are multiple LGBTQIA+ side characters and commentary as well.

The side characters overall were delightful. I think himbo Steve was my favorite (even though we definitely didn't get enough of him - is he in another Mazey book?) but they all had their quirks and charm.

I laughed, I cried, I binge read because it was so good. And now I'm recommending it non-stop. Please read this book!


Thank you to St Martin's Press for the advanced copy!

After Eva’s sort-of diss video about her heartless now-kind-of-popular ex, Rylie, goes viral, the two collab on a series of dates and podcast episodes for Rylie to prove that he’s a changed man. The series of dates gave them space to revisit their painful past, finally discuss what had happened and well, explore their attraction.

Well, Actually is a second chance romance that explores serious topics such as grief, sexuality and feminism. I enjoyed reading this book, the banter was great, sometimes I am caught off guard by their comebacks. I feel like the main characters being podcast hosts make their communication topnotch. The flirting got me kicking my feet a few times. Mazey Eddings has such talent in writing characters with impeccable retorts!

I don't think I need to say anymore about this book that hasn't already been said. Witty snarky banter throughout this second chance, fake dating romance that will leave you swooning in delight while blushing through the steamier parts. It is one of those perfect all round romcoms that I haven't read in a long time and I was all in for it. The audiobook was narrated incredibly well and brought the story to life while I read along with my ebook copy.

"I like you. I care about you. I’ve lost my goddamn mind over you, Eva, and I’ll repeat it over and over again until you are able to trust it. Trust me.”

Well, Actually was such a fun read. Eva was a hoot to read, and I absolutely loved Rylie. I could read more of them forever, but I liked not having the "engagement" epilogue!

Eva and Rylie were the cutest Black Cat x Golden Retriever pairing everrrr😍 There’s also so much yearning, a deserving second chance at love, a good amount of therapy, and queer rep!

Our main character Eva, is a young woman who works as host of a internet show called "Sausage Talk", where celebrities and her rub elbows devouring hot dogs together as they conduct their interviews. Not anything serious, Eva has always wanted to do more with her life, but finds herself always letting life pass her by. That is, until she drunkenly posts a video on her social media about a popular social media personality, and also her ex, Rylie Cooper. Though they slept together six years prior, she has a lot of choice (slurred) words for him and his lackluster performance, and how he ghosted her. And this is just the opening to this book.

This causes Rylie to not only come on her show, but skyrocket her views, and her producers force her to go on make up dates, to try and let him make it right with her. But that too, ends up being a disaster. Desperate to make things good again, Rylie takes her on date after date, trying to connect with her, in a true story of enemies to lovers. That being said, Eva might just be a little bit of a bitch, rather than an enemy.

A story that really caught me off guard, I really liked seeing characters constantly throwing jabs at each other, and this book really had me audibly gasping at some parts. A hilarious and heart felt story, there are much deeper parts to it, and very graphic sex scenes more than half way through. Though not for young readers, this book has to be one of my favourites, and if you like smut books, you're going to love this one. So much more than just a great story with great sex scenes, it's a lesson on letting your guard down, and really allowing yourself to open up to people. I can't recommend it enough.

This was such a fun read. The history and resulting tension between Rylie and Eva. The Lizzie Blake cameo. The spice! Did I mention the tension?

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for access to this book in exchange for an honest review.

4.25 ⭐️ | Goodness, what was in this to make me literally squeal kicking my feet, laugh, and cry so much? The combination of it all had me picking up the book to read every chance I got. I absolutely devoured the dynamic between Eva and Riley and loved how they grew as characters both separately and with one another, exploring their past from different perspectives. Also, I was obsessed with their second chance romance and ‘arguing’ as an excuse to flirt.😍 Top tier banter and Eva’s vulnerability definitely takes the cake for this book, though!

Read if you love:
❤️ Black cat FMC x golden retriever MMC
💛 Second chance romance
❤️ Bi x pan rep
💛 Delightful banter and sarcasm
❤️ It’s bringing yearning back
💛 Bit of workplace romance

I was so grateful to have received both a physical and eARC of this one - Thank you!

Happy Release Day!!!

I loved this book! Thank you NetGalley and Mazey for a free copy to give my honest opinion of this book.

This book was fun, silly, lovely, romantic and endearing! I want a man like Riley. There is literally only one thing about the text and it may be fixed now. When the characters are texting it’s written in paragraph format, so it took me time to realize they were texting one another. lol.

My favorite things:
The emotional connections between the MMC and FMC were amazing! They felt real and human! The slow
Burn was perfect for the characters. I was trying to go slow and read it slowly. As soon as I got to the halfway point I lost all control and I could not put it down!
Needless to say I loved this story!!

Thank you Mazey and NetGalley!

Only Mazey could have me sobbing while reading a book about a second chance romance between a podcast bro and the host of a hot dog show. This book had everything I didn’t know I needed in a second chance romance. There was so much that went wrong that the level of groveling this man did was so justified. If your love language is also bullying, this is definitely the book for you.

I always love how much Mazey packs into her books, and this one is no different. All the love, grief, support, and representation is always so so so great to see! I also loved everything about this relationship and all the cameos from past characters that I loved!

I’m so so so grateful to have revived and ARC and ALC!

4.75/5

Well, actually….I’m in love. I’m so serious. Riley Cooper is officially one of my top book boyfriends. Every time he spoke, he literally had me giggling and kicking my feet.

I love how Mazey Eddings paced the story so well and how, throughout the book, you could see Eva start to trust Riley so much. Their love story gave off golden retriever x black cat energy and I’m obsessed!!!

One thing I have to say though: if William has no haters, I am dead. He’s such a misogynistic jerk. I hate him so much. Anyone else with me on this?

✩ 4.5/5
What happens when a hot dog talk show host drunkenly drags her ex, now a reformed internet heartthrob, only to be forced into a viral reunion that’s equal parts redemption arc and thirst trap?

When Eva Kitt, host of Sausage Talk, a show where she eats hot dogs with B-list celebrities, drunkenly calls out her college ex on social media, she’s presented with an offer she really wishes she could refuse. That ex? Riley Cooper, a beloved social media star known for teaching men how to be better partners and unpack toxic masculinity. He’s also the same guy who broke her heart years ago.

Eva’s bosses see viral gold and dollar signs, eager to cash in on the internet frenzy. Now, forced into the spotlight together, Eva can’t help but wonder: is Riley truly trying to make amends, or is he just playing the game for clicks and clout? And more importantly, can she keep her hands off him long enough to find out?

Just when I thought my attention span had fully regressed to toddler levels, I was blessed with a copy of Well, Actually by Mazey Eddings, and I devoured it. I needed this book in my hands at all times. Eva and Riley’s banter had me audibly laughing more times than I could count.
Eva Kitt is a complex, sharp-edged character who deep down just wants to be accepted and understood. Her instinct to flee when things start going well felt a little too real. As someone who also prefers to avoid her problems, I felt very seen. Watching the tenderness slowly unfold between her and Riley was such a satisfying payoff after all the fighting, snark, and Eva trying her best to push Riley away. Their trust rebuilds piece by piece, and I ate up every crumb of it.

Now let’s talk about Riley Cooper. I’m usually not a fan of second chance romances, mostly because the love interest screws up so badly I’m left wondering why anyone would take them back. But learning what Riley was dealing with during their first relationship added real depth and made his redemption arc land. He wasn’t just groveling, he was growing.

The chemistry and HEAT in this book? 10/10, no notes. If you love a good love-hate dynamic where neither party can keep their hands (or mouths, looking at you Riley) to themselves, this is the book for you.

If I had to nitpick, I’d say the internet-speak could’ve been toned down a bit. A few lines felt like they’d been lifted directly from a 2023 TikTok comment section, and I had to set the book down for a minute to recover. But honestly? That’s such a small blip in what was otherwise a ridiculously fun ride.

Well, Actually is best served with a lukewarm hot dog, mac and cheese, and a surprise glass of skim milk. Don’t ask, just trust me.

Thank you NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for the eARC!

I enjoyed this book so much! The characters had a lot of depth to them and their stories were so down to earth and things everyday people go through. It made them feel like they could be good friends of mine. A definite must read!

This was fun! Chicken Shop Date coded. Really liked the fake dating cause you KNOW ain’t nothing fake about it. There’s always something good when there’s history between the main characters. Cooper and his slutty little glasses are everything. If you enjoy podcast vibes, tiktok frenzy and celebrity drama shenanigans, you’ll definitely enjoy this one!

Thank you St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley for the arc!

Imagine this: a grown-up version of the guy who took your v-card and ghosted you is posting on social media about red flags and being a better partner, and in a drunken rage, you respond. But everyone sees this, including your bosses at the "news" agency where you interview semi-famous people while choking down hot dogs. This turns into you and this douche doing a podcast episode together, and you getting tricked into a series of dates. That is the premise of this unique romantic comedy. But Eva and Rylie have serious sparks, and there is more to their mutual past than Eva knows. Can they work it out with a second chance, or will the public scrutiny bomb this chance too?

I adore Mazey Eddings as an author. The characters shine on the page and are well-rounded. They have flaws but are still likable. They have issues they need to work through, but they are unique. I recommend this to anyone who enjoys a fun romantic comedy with lots of laughs.

Thank you to Net Galley, St. Martin's Press, and St. Martin's Griffin for the ARC. All opinions are my own.

Another Mazey Eddings that kept me reading long past my bedtime!

• an exquisite second chance romance for these enemies (at least one Eva's side) to lovers!
• these two and their dialogue...she calls him babygirl in a playfully antagonistic or potentially vicious/evil genius kind of way. . .he calls her kitten (because *claws* probably)
• Mazey writes some of the most unapologetically dramatic heroines. They are not chill at all, and I *love* them just the way they are! With Eva, I felt like reading her emotions and experiences felt really cathartic for me as a "feels too much" kind of person.
• "slutty little glasses"
• absolutely LOVED all of the tension between them! This book is so sparkly and fiery.
• cover vibes are BEYOND spot on. Just...perfect.

I have such a vivid, visceral memory of reading Lizzie Blake--I remember watching the hours go by in the middle of the night, knowing I would be so tired the next day, but just needing Lizzie Blake more than sleep!!..Well, it has become a Mazey Eddings tradition for me apparently, because all of her books since then have given me the same power against sleep! It's magic. They're just very unputdownable to me!

What happens when you get drunk and post a scathing review of a famous podcast personality?

Your boss makes you host him on your show.

And he tries to win you back in 6 dates, that are rehashed on his podcast.

And maybe things weren’t exactly as they seem.

And maybe he’s really sorry and isn’t using this as a ploy to get more subscriptions.

And maybe your heart has a really hard time with it.

“I would crawl through hell on my hands and knees over a bed of broken glass before I let you go again”

I loved this book! It was funny, real, sweet, spicy and anything you could want out of a rom com. I definitely recommend checking this one out.