"Just Some Stupid Love Story" by Katelyn Doyle is a delightful and witty romantic comedy that combines the glamour of Hollywood rom-coms with the heartache of real-life love stories. The novel revolves around Molly Marks, a screenwriter who crafts romantic comedies for a living yet holds a deep cynicism toward love. On the other end of the spectrum is Seth Rubinstein, a successful divorce attorney who, despite his line of work, maintains a steadfast belief in soulmates and true love.

Doyle cleverly brings these two contrasting characters together through a high school reunion, where past emotions are stirred, and unresolved questions resurface. The history between Molly and Seth is palpable, with a teenage romance that ended in heartbreak when Molly ghosted Seth on the eve of graduation, leaving him without closure for fifteen years. This history adds depth to their reunion, creating a sense of unfinished business that drives the narrative.

The drunken hookup and subsequent bet to predict the fate of five couples create a playful and intriguing premise that guides the story. The dynamics between Molly and Seth are both humorous and heartfelt, as they navigate the complexities of their past while forging a new path forward. The wager to determine who's right about true love offers a unique twist, adding stakes to their evolving relationship.

Doyle's writing style is sharp, engaging, and filled with humor, capturing the banter and chemistry between Molly and Seth. The characters are well-developed, each with their own vulnerabilities and quirks that make them relatable and endearing. The author expertly balances comedy with emotional moments, creating a story that resonates on multiple levels.

"Just Some Stupid Love Story" explores themes of forgiveness, second chances, and the idea that love often surprises us when we least expect it. As Molly and Seth grapple with their feelings for each other, readers are taken on a journey of self-discovery and the power of opening one's heart to the possibility of love.

Overall, "Just Some Stupid Love Story" is a captivating and entertaining romantic comedy that will appeal to fans of witty banter, endearing characters, and stories about finding love in unexpected places. Doyle's blend of humor, heart, and romance makes this a must-read for anyone who enjoys a good laugh and a heartwarming love story.

This book!!!!!

I was so invested immediately. Seth and Molly are former high school sweethearts who run into each other at their 15 year reunion, and their spark is still alive. Many wonderful, heartbreaking, and sexy things occur in the following years after they make a bet about their potential to go to their 20th reunion as dates.

This book has top-tier dialogue that feels like Emily Henry (I’m sure everyone will be making that comparison). I found myself itching to turn to my kindle in any free moments over the past few days to get in a chapter or two.

Truly loved it. Such a perfect way to kick off my summer reading.

Smooth-moving and filled with banter – but also loaded with heartbreak and psychological complexity - Just Some Stupid Love Story is your traditional dramedy with a few twists. It’s a lovely ride with a punchy sense of humor but it suffers from some third act issues. That doesn’t make it a bad read; it’s just not an extraordinary one.

Molly Marks is, perhaps, the most cynical writer of romcoms in the history of the universe. Her relationships are non-starters thanks to her father’s inability to truly love fracturing her belief in romance. She stopped believing in true love a long time ago, and to some degree that’s her high school sweetheart Seth Rubenstein’s fault.

Seth, meanwhile, is a huge romantic in spite of being a divorce attorney. The two of them were utterly heartbroken in different ways when Molly broke up with him just after graduation, but he’s moved on. But the rift in their friendship never healed and their fifteen year high school reunion is the first time these former lovers have laid eyes on each other in years.

A drunken kiss leads to a terribly awkward hookup, and now Seth and Molly are stuck with feelings and emotions and romantic desires they thought were long past them. They try to stay friends with a bet between them – each of them wagers upon the success or failure of five couples they know, the last being themselves. The person who correctly guesses the largest number of correct outcomes before the next reunion will have the benefit of having the other person admit the other is right – either Molly’s belief that love isn’t real or Seth’s that it is. But five years is a very long time…

There are a couple of problems here, but at least Doyle is very realistic about Molly’s mental health and how her baggage has intervened in her life. The relationships the two analyze build fairly realistically through those five years, and every twist of fate is determined by the couples' personalities. They’re worth rooting for, if you can get past Seth’s over-optimism and Molly’s over-negativity.

The last third of the book is where things break down a bit. Molly definitely needs to face her commitment issues, but why on earth does Seth think that his actions are a good idea? Why does he even attempt to do THAT when he knows how freaked out Molly gets about… well, I’ll leave it to the reader to discover.

And yet I truly enjoyed Just Some Stupid Love Story. It combines romance with reality in a way that generally works and makes it worth the read.

have yet to experience my own high school reunion but living through Molly Marks’ 15-year reunion was a delightful kickoff to this book! For a lady who writes rom-coms, she sure manages to land herself into the almost too perfect to be chance encounter with her high school boyfriend, Seth Rubinstein. They are complete opposites with a history of a bad breakup but it takes no time for their chemistry to be rekindled at the reunion. A playful bet challenges their differing perspectives on love and relationships with a fun and witty delivery. This second-chance rom com will have even the biggest cynic rooting for Molly and Seth.


Review is on Goodreads and will be on instagram ahead of the publication date!

Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC of this book.

Molly Marks and Seth Rubenstein are complete opposites. Although Molly writes rom-coms for a living, her philosophy of romance is much farther than the happily-ever-after. Seth Rubenstein is a hopeless romantic even though he is a divorce attorney. These two dated in high school and no matter how many times either of them dated other people in the last 15 years, nothing compares to each other.

Molly and Seth meet at their 15-year high school reunion and are forced to sit together. They hookup after many drinks together, but make a bet that a certain fate of five couples, including themselves, will occur in the next five years. Whoever is right will win the bet. Molly is a cynic, but Seth is determined to change her mind and prove her wrong that they will end up together.

This was a cute contemporary romance. It included many of the different romance tropes, like second-chance romance and strangers to enemies to lovers, that meshed well together. I have to admit though. It was a slightly predictable story, but it was okay. This book was a warm security blanket that piqued my interest throughout it. I was hanging on to Molly and Seth's fate until the end of the story.

This book will be released on June 4, 2024, just in time for summer and beach vacations. This is most certainly a beach read that readers of contemporary romance will want to pick up!

Katelyn Doyle has written a fun rom-com for her debut release. Just a Stupid Love Story is a story of two high school sweethearts that just have poor timing when it comes to their relationship.

Molly Marks reluctantly attends her high school fifteen year reunion which she runs in to Seth. High school sweethearts, Molly breaks up with Seth at the end of their senior year which breaks Seth's heart. There is instant chemistry once again between the two which results in a five year journey for the couple.

It was nice to see a rom-com/beach read address some relationship patterns that likely account for the problems in the past.

The only disappointing thing is one scene in this book. It was so over the top and unnecessary. I would have given a higher rating if it wasn't for that one scene.

I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Thank you MacMillan for the audio review copy and to Flatiron for the ebook review copy (free copies). Just Some Stupid Love Story is one of those books that should be a big win for me, I love romcoms and I am all good with second chance themes and all of the tropes but there was not a lot in this story that worked for me. Strong premise, I loved that the FMC was dark and edgy but a romcom writer (I actually liked her a lot) but the MMC was so flat, one dimensional, and even for a "sunshine"vs grumpy"... this was over the top sunshine at the expense of having an interesting nuanced male character (and his fiance... the way she was written and described made me annoyed, so unrealistic and unrelatable). I think some of my dislike for the MMC was possibly also the narration style, solid performance but the tone just didn't work either.

I felt the plot bounced around a lot, event to event without ever giving me a sense as to why the two MCs liked each other, I didn't get a sense of their chemistry but more spent a lot of time in their heads and messages about their feelings but never really the why. And then the phone sex just landed in my car speakers and it felt awkward and not sexy at all to me.

This is for me a romcomc that is missing the rom part.

I laughed, I cried...I was completely sucked into this story. This is simply an enjoyable book and what more could I ask for?

Just Some Stupid Love Story by Katelyn Doyle is an incredible read! This second-chance romance had me hooked from the very beginning. The characters were so well-developed and relatable that I found myself invested in their journey from the start.

What I loved most about this book was the emotional depth it had. It was a rollercoaster ride of emotions that left me both laughing and crying. Katelyn Doyle's writing style is impeccable, and I was pleasantly surprised to find out that this was her debut novel. She has a true gift for storytelling.

Just Some Stupid Love Story is a 5+++ star novel (I wish I could give it more). I am eagerly waiting for Katelyn Doyle's next book and will be sure to 1-click it as soon as it's released. If you're a fan of romance novels, then I highly recommend you add this one to your reading list!

Just Some Stupid Love Story was an excellent second chance/grumpy-sunshine romance featuring former high school sweethearts Seth and Molly. At their 15th high school reunion - they make a bet to see who can better predict the fate of 5 couples in their senior class - including themselves. Seth is an easy character to fall for immediately - adorable, willing to be vulnerable, and still a believer in true love, despite his career as a divorce attorney. Molly is definitely relatable - a cynical romantic comedy screenwriter who finds it easier to write about emotions than experiencing them herself. Their paths in the novel aren't always easy or straight-forward and there are plenty of missteps along the way. But this novel was sexy, funny, emotional, and so entertaining. Definitely a great summer read! Thank you to Flatiron Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this novel.

*3.5 stars rounded up*
Just Some Stupid Love Story alternates points of view between the two main characters, Molly and Seth. It took me a bit to warm up to Molly... she's very cynical, especially about romance. As we learn about her past it becomes more understandable, but sometimes her self-sabotaging was really frustrating. The story covers the span of 5 years, so there are several jumps in time that highlight Molly and Seth coming together and drifting apart over the years. They both have a lot of self-reflection along the way, leading to a good deal of character growth. It was interesting to see how the relationships of other couples in the story evolved over time in addition to the main characters. Overall, the book was a little predictable but still a quick read that kept me engaged.

Thank you to Flatiron Books and NetGalley for the early review copy of Just Some Stupid Love Story! All opinions expressed in my review are completely my own.

I should have done my research on this before reading. I knew there was a probability of sexual content and I was prepared to skip it if/when it appeared. This book did not waste any time getting to sexual content and honestly, that was more than I can tolerate. The first 6 chapters were building up to it but I didn't think it would happen so fast. Unfortunately, I decides to end my reading at Chapter 8. From what I did read, I did enjoy the short chapters as well as the dual pov. Sadly, thus just wasn't for me. Thank you NetGalley and Flatiron Books for the opportunity to read and review this advanced copy.

Seth a pesar de ser abogado de divorcios cree en el amor y no puede esperar a encontrar a su alma gemela, es un monogamo en serie esperando encontrar a la elegida.

Molly es escritora de romances para películas y series, desde niña aprendió que el amor no existe, cree que es como su papá y que si se permite querer a alguien terminará lastimandolo.

Los dos son ex novios, se recuentran en la fiesta de 15° aniversario de su graduación de high school, hacen una apuesta de quien tiene la razón de sí existe o no el amor, escogen 5 parejas y predicen si durarán o no y en la 20° reunión verán quien tenía la razón

Sarah era la pareja perfecta para Seth, ojalá se hubieran casado.

Me desesperó Molly, se la pasó acercándose a Seth para luego romperle el corazón. Al final resultó que era cierto que se parecía a su papá.

Seth idealizada como seria su alma gemela que nunca pudo ver y disfrutar a sus novias.

Disfrute las escenas del juego de béisbol y cuando se enteró que Seth estaba comprometido, después de todo lo que hizo sufrir se merecía saber como se siente.


Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for and honest review.

I loved this!!! I love dual pov second chance romance. This delivered! It was a really unique spin on a classic rom com. Seth was so unabashedly sunshiny. Molly was cynical and grumpy. She had trauma and in turn she hurt Seth. It was heartbreaking at times. Funny. Sweet. All the things. Highly recommend.

Absolutely thrilled to stumble upon yet another captivating tale of enemies turned lovers, where opposites attract and sparks fly! This book ticks off all my must-have tropes, whisking me away into a world of witty banter, sizzling chemistry, and a unique dating premise that had me hooked from page one. The character arcs, not just for the main duo but also the supporting cast, are beautifully crafted, making it easy for me to invest in their journeys.

However, despite the book's undeniable charm, I couldn't quite give it a perfect rating. The storyline's extensive timeline, reminiscent of those never-ending engagement sagas in romantic comedies, left me feeling a tad lost at times. While the writing itself was top-notch, the prolonged narrative blurred the overall direction, making me wonder when it would all come together. Condensing the timeline to a more manageable two-year span could have tightened the plot, allowing for a more immersive experience. Nonetheless, the final act, though a bit melodramatic, still held my attention, ensuring a satisfying conclusion.

In this refreshing twist on the classic grumpy sunshine trope, our heroine Molly takes on the role of the skeptic, while Seth, our leading man, embodies unwavering optimism—a dynamic that adds an extra layer of intrigue to their dynamic.

Their post-high school encounters are laced with a sense of inevitability, yet Molly's self-imposed barriers often thwart their connection. Watching them navigate these hurdles while evolving as individuals was a delight to behold.

One of the book's highlights is Seth's genuine concern for Molly, a touch that deepened my investment in their relationship. Seeing the story unfold from his perspective lent it depth and authenticity.

Admittedly, it took me some time to warm up to Molly, whose departure from the usual protagonist mold initially gave me pause. However, her growth throughout the story eventually won me over, showcasing a nuanced character arc.

Set against the backdrop of a high school reunion, where a romance-weary screenwriter and an idealistic divorce attorney cross paths, this tale unfolds with a one-night stand that sparks a bet on unraveling the mysteries of love. Their contrasting outlooks on relationships set the stage for an unforgettable journey.

As they part ways, they wager on their ability to decipher the secrets of love, with plans to reconvene at the next reunion five years later to determine the winner. Through alternating perspectives, the narrative explores the intricacies of their evolving relationship, complete with all its imperfections and insecurities.

Overall, my heartfelt gratitude to NetGalley and Flatiron Books for providing me with a digital ARC of this captivating read in exchange for my honest review.

I read this book in one sitting, could not put it down. I love a second chance/high school sweethearts love story & this one hit the mark. It was raw & emotional but also romantic. I loved the characters & their flawed ways (and also reallllllyyy wanted them to get some therapy). The plot developed smoothly over the course of multiple years and even successfully included some Covid years without making me want to gouge my eyeballs out (still too soon to relive 2020). Set in Florida, LA, Chicago, New York and even a little Nashville this rollercoaster of a story takes us all over the country with emotions all over the map and I enjoyed every minute.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are mine alone.

4 spicy romance stars

This was my first read from this author, but I see that she also writes historical romance. I found this one to be quite spicy, but I did enjoy the romance and Molly Marks. Some of the critical scenes happen at high school reunions and I found that I like this premise.

Molly is a Hollywood rom-com writer, but she doesn’t believe in soulmates or even romance really. The title of the book clearly comes from her. She and Seth were high school sweethearts until she unexpectedly left him on a pivotal night 15 years ago, and now he’s at the reunion.

Seth has become a super successful family law attorney in Chicago. He’s been looking for the person who can replace Molly in his heart, but so far, no one has measured up. He’s ready for marriage and a family. And I found him to be a nice guy, and you know what they say about nice guys.

As fate would have it, Seth and Molly are paired up at the same table at the high school reunion. Molly’s only there to see her good friends; she didn’t realize she would have to face Seth. However, the sparks fly, and the two can’t keep their hands off each other. They come up with a fun bet to see who is better at picking which of five couples will stay together.

Seth and Molly go their separate ways, but they plan to meet again at the 20th reunion to see who won the bet. The interesting thing is that neither of them can get the other out of their minds. Will Molly change her mind and realize that she should be with Seth and accept that he is her soulmate? Will Seth get tired of being rejected and settle for someone other than Molly, but who loves him?

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC!
Such a great little romcom! I really loved both main characters and their arc. I enjoy reading books where characters experience real growth and I had that here. I also liked how realistic and relatable the characters and plot were.

“But just because the results won’t be fairy-tale perfect doesn’t mean you can’t try your best to be vulnerable. When you hurt someone, you do what you can to fix it. When you’re scared, you do what you can to be brave.”

A second chance, friends to lovers, “it’s always been you” story that spans two decades… sign me up! Friends to lovers is a top tier trope for me and Katelyn Doyle magicked a story that was honest, relatable, sometimes bittersweet, but oh so beautiful and redemptive while also brimming over with longing, forgiveness, and hope. This story had such a hold on heart and I could not put it down. I was rooting for Seth and Molly and their messy love story from the start and found myself tearing up and clutching the book to my heart several times.

I loved the premise of a cynical rom-com writer and a divorce lawyer eagerly looking for the love of his life, who are former high school sweethearts, reconnecting and unable to resist the spark that’s been burning between them for fifteen years. On the surface Seth and Molly might seem like an opposites attracting situation, but at their very core, they both just want to love and be loved. This story was achingly vulnerable and layered as Seth and Molly worked through their own pasts of unresolved hurt, but I loved how incredibly brave they both were to bare their hearts and desires, even when it was uncomfortable and scary.

I’m a sucker for a grand gesture (love them, can’t get enough) and Molly’s grand gesture was not only perfect for her and Seth’s story, but it was so vulnerable and an act of growth and bravery. This story has the heart and humor of a romcom, but I what I adored most was how Doyle focused on the “after”… the messy, imperfect moments that take place after the highlight reel or when the camera turns off altogether. Doyle did a wonderful job of demonstrating growth and healing for both Seth and Molly as individuals and as a couple, and I appreciated how even in the end, they were still perfectly imperfect but full of hope.

Highly recommend if you’re looking for a love story about two imperfect people who don’t always get it right, but who make the decision to be brave and love wholeheartedly, to be vulnerable with their person even when it’s scary, and to fight for a happily ever after with the person they adore.

This was a really cute story! It followed high school lovers over five years, beginning at their high school reunion. I immediately fell in love with the MMC, and the FMC took some time to grow on me. I also loved the friendship dynamic in the female friend group and thought it was a great support for the book. Overall, it was a hopeful love story and I found myself really rooting for both the main characters and the supporting characters.

Thank you to NetGalley and Flatiron Books for the eARC!