Love Songs for Skeptics

Zoe Frixos, editor of a struggling music magazine, thinks love is for suckers. It doesn’t help that she’s spent decades pining for her childhood crush, Simon Baxter. When Simon’s marriage falls apart and he moves back to London, Zoe begins to consider whether they could finally be together. But can the mythos she’s created around the one-that-got-away hold up to the real person? To further complicate things, enter Nick Jones, a music publicist who represents both a boy band that Zoe cannot stand and a music legend that she idolizes. As she tries to land an interview with her idol in order to save her magazine, Zoe must balance unpacking her feelings for Simon (who begins showing his true colors) and Nick (who, despite his initial brashness, proves to be quite sweet) with grieving the death of her mentor. There are lots of twists as secrets come to light.

This book gave me all the feels. A lighthearted romantic comedy, complete with love triangle, perfect for readers of Sally Thorne and Tessa Bailey. There’s also an angst here that former 90s teens will understand well. I thought that the tension developed between Zoe and Nick was really well done, as was Simon’s fall from grace. I really enjoyed how each chapter name was a song title - someone please make a Spotify playlist to listen to while reading this book!

I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

So far this book is the most engaging, uplifting and addictive read for 2020. Thanks to being locked down and working from home for months I have had the opportunity to read more that I usually would and this book has taken pride of place at the top of my list.

I loved the musical feel, the characters that I could empathise with and root for and the story, oh my giddy aunt that story is divine.

For lovers of Sophie Kinsella, Lindsay Kelk, Paige Toon and Sally Thorne this book is a must!

I received this book from Netgalley in return for my honest opinions.

I opened this book with low expectations of being surprised. From the description, I assumed I would be enjoying a romantic comedy about a skeptical music loving protagonist caught in between her complex past, present, and what she envisioned for her future. While I was right about my predictions in the plot, I was completely wrong about lowering expectations.

This was a whirlwind of a book that had me second guessing all of the characters' intent and actual feelings. I was completely enthralled and emotionally involved the entire time especially with all the information that is masterfully woven into the chapters as the story comes to a close.

Zoe isn't just likable or relatable, but she is someone that all of us strive to be. Dealing with her brother's wedding and family dynamics on top of her own complex romantic interests adds to her profile as one of the best romantic protagonists I've read in a long time. With the musical background creating intrigue and depth, I would recommend this to anyone.