I WAS SO EXCITED WHEN I SAW THAT I GOT THE ARC!!!!!!

I'm just going to start with this: Anything K.L. Walther writes is pretty much automatically a great summer read, and this book was no exception.

First up, the plot: it’s classic K.L. Walther—fun, fast-paced, and with genuine friendship throughout, and with that perfect summer vibe. Audrey and Henry’s “will-they-won’t-they” romance is perfectly woven into a story where the main focus is on changing friendships, figuring out life after high school (and in high school, let's be honest), and finding the courage to take risks. Instead of just a typical romance, the plot spends time on Audrey’s uncertainty about her future, glassblowing career, and navigating her messy family and social life, which really helped develop her character. I actually liked that twist, even if it was unexpected, because somehow the story always made it back to her main issue with Henry!

The romance between Audrey and Henry was cute but felt sliiiiiiiiightly off. I get the whole thing with the fake dating, but I feel like it was forced just a little bit. Their dynamic felt more like best friends figuring things out—and even when they do get together, Audrey's “oooh I'm in love!” moment kind of snuck up on me. It was believable, just maybe slightly rushed, because there wasn't that much (sober) thinking we could see that would lead her to that conclusion. Also, heads up: there’s more spice here than in Walther’s other books—not a bad thing, just something to know.

Character time!

Audrey is so relatable—she messes up, stresses about the future, sometimes says the wrong thing—and it made me root for her more. Also, I'm there for her impulsive decisions, whether it be the Bleachella hair or the spur of the moment house party.

Henry is adorable and kind, but honestly gave off best friend vibes more than “meant to be” romance for most of the story, but I still loved him for Audrey. I know he was supposed to be stiff because Audrey was moving to NC and he doesn't like long distance, but it didn't ever feel like he was fully invested, even when he was supposed to be. Also, his moms were actually amazing.

I came to love Ellie as the book went on; at first I wasn't sure, but she grew on me. Not your typical ex-girlfriend, she kind of helps out Audrey even though she still is kind of in love with Henry.

I'm going to be honest. Tate absolutely ran the show. She’s hilarious, bold, and just plain iconic—her scenes were always my favorite. Not to mention the amazing hair salon she runs?!?!

Special shoutout to James, too—the best chill-but-caring adult I’ve read in a while. He gave Audrey space but was always there when she needed it, and that just made the book that much better. Also, he and Isa are so adorable together.

The Taylor Swift references? Chef’s kiss. Seriously, as a Swiftie, I appreciated every single one.

One more thing I have to mention: K.L. Walther dropping in little references and connections to her other books was the best. If you’re a returning reader, you’ll have so much fun spotting all the Easter eggs!

Overall, "We're a Bad Idea, Right?" is perfect if you love stories about complicated friendships, life transitions, and a romance that’s sweet but not the whole story. Also, with well-written side characters, a fun plot, and enough Taylor Swift content to keep any fan smiling. I had such a great time reading this; you will cheer the readers on and (mentally) yell at them as necessary.

Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinions.

Another fantastic KL Walther read!! Loved all of Audrey’s antics and the many Hepburn references. Henry is a dream and I loved the James and Isa cameo. At this point I would love a character family tree for all of her books, I love how the words are connected!!

4.5 stars rounded up. I have been so incredibly lucky that this was my 3rd ARC of K.L. Walther’s and I swear they only get better each time. This one is inspired by Risky Business and I admittedly have not seen that movie, but it’s a good thing to know for fans of the movie. Audrey and Henry are best friends who decide to fake date so that Henry can make his ex-girlfriend jealous and take him back and for Audrey’s crush Griff to hopefully finally notice her romantically. This was such a funny story and all of the shenanigans the friends get up to is hilarious but also so nerve wracking. Audrey wants to go to glass blowing school and her parents don’t support her, so while they are out of town Audrey and her friends cook up some schemes to earn the money. I kept waiting for everything to hit the fan, there was no way they were going to get away with everything. Meanwhile, Audrey and Henry start realizing that they are actually falling for each other but they are young and communication is not their strong suit. Do they actually end up together? Does Audrey get caught defying her parents? You’ll have to read to see what all comes of their crazy plans. We also get some cameos from characters of her previous books. My only gripe is that the book ended without complete closure for my liking. Other than that, I loved this one and can’t wait to see what she writes next!

Thank you to NetGalley and Delacorte Romance for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.

We're A Bad Idea, Right? is such a fun and charming friends-to-lovers romance that I know our high school students will devour. Audrey and Henry, two best friends in their senior year, hatch a fake dating plan to stir up a little jealousy with their exes and crushes. Of course, pretending to be in love starts to feel a lot like the real thing, and that’s when the story really takes off.

I loved the mix of humor, surprising twists, and the bittersweet feelings of figuring out what comes after high school. It’s a light and engaging read that still captures those big emotions teens can relate to. I’ll definitely be adding this to our library shelves and recommending it to anyone who loves K.L. Walther or a good fake-dating trope. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for my review copy.

I loved The Summer of Broken Rules by the same author, but I barely managed to get through this. I love friends to lovers, but I might be getting too old for high school romance, I’m sure this book is for someone, but not for me. The dialogue and plot was cringey. Thank you NetGalley for letting me read this!!

I was interested in this book because the cover is holiday house and the reviews mentioned taylor swift and fun movie quotes but I just couldn’t get myself to like it. Every mention of a pop artist felt like product placement, i love that the FMC loves glass blowing but I also didn’t really want to read five pages in a row on her technique. Overall the book felt all over the place and I couldn’t get past the obvious placements of Taylor Swift and other pop girlies just to say they were in it.

“ I was bopping along to Calvin Harris’s “This Is What You Came For.” I harmonized with Rihanna while I let the pipe hang down to stretch the glass.”

This book was romantic and full of surprises! I liked the fake dating between Audrey and Henry, and the wholesome moments between the two of them. Audrey's pursue of her dream was really admirable. I enjoyed the drama and the suspense of the book. Although I think the book could have been more fast paced since it seemed like some parts of the book were dragged on. Overall, I think this book is great for readers who enjoy entertaining, charming YA romance novels.

This book follows our protagonist, Audrey, who takes money from her parents bank account in an attempt to attend a prestigious glassblowing fellowship after her senior year of high school. In order to earn the money back, her and Henry, her best friend, put up her mansion for rent online. While this is going on, she and Henry are fake-dating in an attempt for him to win back his ex.

This was a fun and quick read, which I enjoyed. However, I was not a fan of how Audrey was stealing from her parents and lying to pretty much everyone in the book. I also didn’t enjoy how most her problems and solutions were a result of her parents’ wealth. The side characters weren’t my favorite individually, but some of the dynamics between them were fun. I did love Henry’s character, but I wished he was more open about his feelings through words and actions. The nicknames he had for Audrey were very cute and original. Audrey’s passion for glassblowing was a unique part of the story, which I appreciated.

Overall, I think this is a fun YA read that would be perfect for movie buffs and lovers of a rich coastal daughter aesthetic.

Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Children's Books | Delacorte Romance for providing an e-ARC.

K. L. Walther does a fantastic job in writing this book, it had that element that I was wanting from a fake relationship novel. It had that element that I was hoping for and enjoyed the overall feel of the world and characters and how the story worked in telling the story that it needed to. I was invested in what was happening with the characters and how the story was done perfectly. It left me wanting to read more from K. L. Walther as this was a really well done romance novel.

I eat up every one of @klwalther9 books. Her writing style is perfect and this book didn’t disappoint. I adored Henry. This book was such a unique story line, I have never read anything like it! I love how all her books are in the same world and they connect. Bestfriends to lovers is my favorite trope!

Thank you to Delacorte Romance and K. L. Walther for the ARC copy of We’re a Bad Idea Right?!!

First off I have to start by saying how grateful I am for this book. I had been stuck in an reading slump for several weeks, not being able to finish a single book, and feeling that fire for reading slowly start dwindling… That was until I picked up this book. I knew already that I loved K. L. Walther’s writing, as I read What Happens After Midnight a couple years ago, but had no clue it was exactly what I needed to get back into reading again. So all that to say thank you to K. L Walther for writing this amazing book!

Now for the review… We’re a Bad Idea Right? combines several of my favorite tropes into one fun and exciting book. The fake dating was what drew me in originally. Audrey and Henry best friends on the verge of starting new chapters of their lives after graduation, but run into a few road blocks when Audrey gets into her dream fellowship but her parents aren’t on board, and Henry’s gf unexpectedly breaks up with him for her ex. So obviously the solution is fake dating right?

Audrey and Henry are literally the cutest people and couple ever. All the move references? iconic. The love they have for each other knows no ends and they would do anything for each other, including renting out Audrey’s home. Seeing their relationship grow stronger through everything, as well as romantically, was beautiful and made me giddy.

Also, all our side character were amazing and brought so much life and joy to the book. Each one played a different part in the venture and without them, the whole thing would have gone down. Ellie and Griff were really the stars of the side character show though, as well as Tate cause she’s an icon!

Overall a 5 star book from me and I am so thankful that I got to read it early! We’re a Bad Idea Right is out March 2026, but go check out some of K. L. Walther’s other books while you wait to pick this one up cause you won’t be disappointed!

We’re a Bad Idea, Right? by K.L. Walther was such a fun and heartfelt read! I loved the fake-dating twist and the slow shift from friendship to something more. Audrey’s journey to break free from expectations and follow her passion was super relatable. The pacing dragged a bit at times, but the chemistry, emotion, and character growth made it totally worth it. Sweet, chaotic, and satisfying!

This book is going to best spring break escape read once it releases. I enjoyed every bit and pieces of Aubrey and Henry friendship to lover. Fake dating and Airbnb prospect to fund her dreams. Such a great read between friendship and navigating adulthood.

K.L. Walther does it again—this time with a swoony, clever, and emotionally grounded take on one of the best tropes in YA romance: fake dating between best friends. Audrey and Henry aren’t just believable—they’re magnetic. Their chemistry crackles on the page, full of banter, longing glances, and those delicious “do they know?” moments that make your heart flip.

Audrey’s independence and artistic ambition give the story emotional depth, while Henry’s goofy charm and secret vulnerability make him impossible not to root for. Watching them fumble through their feelings, awkward misunderstandings, and late-night heart-to-hearts felt like reliving a teenage summer—the messy, beautiful kind that changes everything.

The Connecticut mansion setting adds a fun, nostalgic layer (think Risky Business meets To All the Boys), and Walther’s writing is breezy but heartfelt. There’s laughter, glass-blowing mishaps, unspoken tension, and plenty of lines you’ll want to highlight and reread.

Final verdict: A must-read for fans of friends-to-lovers, fake dating chaos, and stories where the biggest risk is admitting how you really feel. Audrey and Henry might think they’re a bad idea—but trust me, this book is a very good one.

This book has everything I love about K.L. Walther’s writing - heart, humor, and authentic relationships between characters you can genuinely root for. The character cameos from While We’re Young and If We Were Us made it even more fun! It did take me a while to get through this book, partly because I went on vacation around the 75% mark, and partly because the pacing felt a bit slow at times. Still, it was a solid and enjoyable read. I’ve read all of K.L. Walther’s books, and I’ve yet to dislike a single one. She continues to be one of my favorite authors for YA and coming-of-age stories.

Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Children's/Delacorte Romance for providing the digital arc in exchange for my honest review.

This is a YA contemporary romance that’s heavier on friendship and self-realization than the romance, and it’s sprinkled with Taylor Swift references throughout as YA novels are wont to do of late.

This is a light read with two intriguing main characters. The FMC is simply a very cool girl, and the MMC is not your typical YA romance hero. The FMC and MMC are the same height, he’s a movie buff who’s a terrible driver and has fantastic taste in clothes. He’s also a big reader, and she’s not. I absolutely loved them.

However, their romance seemed undercooked. The book’s first-person single POV, but I desperately wanted the MMC’s POV. He’s quiet when it comes to expressing his feelings, and his actions don’t give away anything. I didn’t sense much attraction or love from him. I needed some jealousy, some passion, etc.

Also, this might not be your cup of tea if you don’t like to read about lifestyles of the rich. These are very privileged kids with some atypical behaviors; the FMC calls her parents by their first names, and they leave her alone in their seaside mansion/estate while they go on a trip in Europe.

Tropes:
-Friends to lovers
-Fake dating

This was such a great read! I really enjoyed the two main characters Audrey and Henry and their plot to fake date or the fauxmance. It was really cool learning a bit about glassblowing. I really liked that she had friends and family in her corner to help support her. Her friend Griff was a pushy friend. The whole ‘air bnb’ had me at the edge of my seat trying to see if there would be fall out.

I love K.L. Walther's books SO MUCH!!!! She has the most unique writing style, and I eat it up in every one of her books!

I ADORED Henry in this book! I did get angry with him a few times, but then I learned why he did and said those things...😭

I thought it was so cool that our main character was a glass blower?! That is so stinking cool! Like what?!

I really like Audrey! (our main character) Usually, with the main female character in books, I find something I dislike about them, but I didn't have any problems with Audrey!!

This was a really good book that keeps you on your toes. I was just waiting for something to go wrong because the situation these characters got themselves in....YEESH. It stressed me out, and it is 100% FICTION!!! BAHAHA.

I also loved this couple🫶

Thank you, NetGalley.com, for the ARC! 🥰

I loved this book! K.L. Walther is one of my favorite authors so I was really excited when I saw she had a new release on the way. I really enjoyed the characters and their dynamics, and especially their hilarious shenanigans. The romance was definitely lacking a little, I didn’t feel amazing chemistry between Henry and Audrey, but it was still entertaining! Plus, I love how KL Walther always does character crossovers in her books (shoutout James and Isa)! Overall, I would give this book 4 stars!!

Thank you to NetGalley for providing me an ARC in exchange for an honest review!

K.L. Walther has done it again! If you loved The Summer of Broken Rules, you’re going to eat up We’re a Bad Idea, Right? — it’s swoony, smart, and just the right amount of messy. Walther captures that electric pull between friends who maybe (definitely) want to be more but keep getting in their own way.

The banter? Perfect. The slow-burn tension? Delicious. The kind of story that makes you want to scream “JUST KISS ALREADY” but also never want it to end. I laughed, I sighed, I rooted so hard for these characters to figure it out. And of course, Walther delivers her signature summer vibes and emotional depth that keeps me coming back for more.

Basically, if you’re into friends-to-lovers, great dialogue, and characters with undeniable chemistry — this is your next read. Walther is firmly on my auto-buy list now.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️