I picked up Purple State expecting something like a fictionalized origin story of James Carville and Mary Matalin—a sharp, opposites-at-the-podium political romance built around ideological fireworks.
What I got instead was something far gentler.
In her debut novel, Dana Perino offers a light, hopeful romantic comedy set against a political backdrop—but not consumed by it. Yes, there are campaign tensions. Yes, there are red and blue loyalties. There is some insight into how campaigns work, as one would expect from this author. But the heart of this story isn’t partisan combat. It’s about decency. It’s about curiosity. It’s about learning how to see the person across from you as a human being first.
Dorothy “Dot” Clark leaves New York City for Cedar Falls, Wisconsin—a swing district in a swing state—with two best friends in tow. What unfolds isn’t just a political assignment but a season of self-discovery. The small-town setting feels warm and inviting without becoming saccharine, and the friendships among the three women are handled with affection and humor. Each of their storylines—romantic and personal—unfolds in its own way, and I appreciated that Perino gave each one space to breathe.
The romance at the center of the book is sweet rather than steamy, hopeful rather than cynical. The tension doesn’t hinge on caricatured politics but on the deeper question: Can two people who see the world differently choose to love one another anyway? The answer the novel offers is both simple and quietly radical—perhaps what matters most is not winning the argument, but loving well in the “purple.”
It’s a lovely, light book for a time such as this. The focus isn’t red or blue—it’s being good to one another. Even loving one another. Especially in the middle.
I did feel the ending wrapped up a bit quickly, but I found myself willingly buying into the happily-ever-after resolutions. Sometimes you want a story that lets kind hearts prevail. Sometimes you want to believe there’s a town somewhere—real or imagined—where people disagree and still share coffee, laughter, and maybe even a life together.
Purple State is that kind of story. Hopeful. Gentle. And quietly reassuring.
If you’re looking for a rom-com with warmth and a steady belief that civility is still possible, this one will leave you smiling.

I'm very grateful for the review copy I received from NetGalley and Harper Books.

Stuck in a job that isn't fulfilling leaves the main character with a reason to leave and break out of her comfort zone in New York. She convinces three friends to move with her to wisconsin to try and gain the democratic vote in the upcoming election. While there will she find love, fulfillment and more? And even more importantly will their efforts lead to a win for the democrats?