I loved this book so much! I devoured it. Everything about it was just perfect. The characters, the story, all of it.

Finn Alexander grew up in England and is now a well-known writer for a successful TV program, living in Los Angeles. He attends a Hollywood party, for the purpose of networking with the goal of meeting potential employers. Unexpectedly, he does get a fabulous offer of a dream job on a phenomenally successful weekly TV program. He quits his current job with no notice and Monday morning shows up bright and early to his new job, where he has been warmed to “not be late,” by his new boss. Upon arrival, he encounters several crazy circumstances that cause coffee down the front of his shirt, a few tears in his clothing, and finding a home for many dogs. When he finally makes his late appearance to a meeting, in his disheveled state, to his total dismay and shock, he finds that Lavender Rhodes is the much-loved star of the program he will be a writer for.
Finn and Lavender both grew up in the same town in England, however, they were not friends. Finn has a detailed list, beginning at age 17, that goes through his life to age 29, listing the many things the “Transgressor” also known now as Lavender Rhodes, did that ruined much of his life.
Finn is pretty much stuck in the fabulous new job since he quit his old job with no warning, so no chance of returning. When opportunities come up, he plots how he can payback Lavender for all the losses and heartbreak he suffered at her hand.
This is a well-written, creative, fast-paced, delightful story that grabbed my heart and attention right from the start. The characters are creative, loveable, and unforgettable. Often I had to pause to laugh out-loud!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions and comments are my own.

When Finn Masters is forced to work with Lavendar Rhodes, the unknowing and ultimate "Ruiner of Life." there will be heck to pay! Unfortunately, for him at least, not all goes as planned and he might just find something (or someone) to love! This is a highly anticipated release from Melissa Ferguson and I can't wait to share this romcom with the world in April 2024!

The first time I read this story I really liked it. The second time around I really loved it!

What I loved most was Finn and Lavender's realization of what their shortcomings were and their willingness to change for the better. Of course, the revenge story with a twist was great as was the snarky dialogue, the great supporting cast (including adorable dogs), and a heartwarming love story. The HEA was also fantastic!

I've added it to my audiobook wish list and I also look forward to re-reading this wonderful story again in the future.

Rate G. No profanity and no sex.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in the review are completely my own.

This is my first Melissa Ferguson book and I am absolutely hooked! Her writing is fun, clever, and catchy. Lavender's personality is one that I can relate to, and her joy is infectious. I wish I had her same ability to simply smile at the world, enjoy happiness like that, and feel so content in life. I'm working on it and Lavender's an inspiration!

I appreciated the slow burn and I'm not usually someone who can handle the slow burn feelings in a romance novel. However, it was written well and was a fun way to learn more about the couple as they went along. Instalove often feels empty and vapid, but Melissa writes this slow burn in the perfect way!

Overall I really enjoyed reading this book, it was easy to read and the characters felt fully realised which adding to feeling immersed in the universe of the book and had me reading it quickly as I didn't want to put it down.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This is a cute, fun rom-com that many readers will love. It's a cute grumpy/sunshine trope with a slow burn romance. The characters are not what they first appear to be from the outside, but in the best way possible. I also liked the storyline with the famous actress and the script writer. The characters were likeable and the story was well done.

.5 star deduction for how wrong this art is for this warm, charming, funny(ish), clever book. The cover reads as vapid and the novel is anything but, so.

HOW TO PLOT A PAYBACK is a delightful and wholesome story filled with lovable characters and a refreshing plot line. Let's say you're offered your dream career, the moment you've been waiting your whole life for... would you accept it knowing it meant working with the person who has been the common denominator to the things that went wrong in your life? Welcome to Finn Master's life.

I fell in in love with Finn and Lavender's dynamic, watching their relationship unfold, and how they both end up seeing the true version of each other. Actress Lavender Rhodes who is more down-to-earth than she appears and screenwriter Finn who actually is kind-hearted and caring no matter how much he tries to hide it behind his scowling. I absolutely adored this book and look forward to reading what the author comes up with next!

Thank you to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for the advanced readers copy in exchange for my honest review.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This is the first book I read of Melissa Ferguson and I'm very impressed! The characters were quite hilarious and lovable. Lavender was a pretty sunshine-y actress and I adored her humble personality. Finn is the grumpy yet tenderhearted script writer who held a lot of resentment for the many misfortunes caused in his life indirectly by Lavender.

It was a pretty good slow burn. I'd love to read more of the same characters if there is a sequel for this.