Member Reviews
As a former J! contestant, I really wanted to love this. Unfortunately the characters were so one-dimensional that I found myself constantly rolling my eyes at their antics. The story also got bogged down by having too much math & statistical analysis of gameplay. It makes me happy I didn’t pay attention to any of that stuff before I was on.
If you like books with a reality show/game show premise, then this is one you'll want to try. The story is a fresh and sparkling romance with a unique blend of rivalry and sizzling chemistry that will leave you swooning. Maxine has never been one for formal education, but her ADHD combined with her love for knowledge gives her an edge when it comes to trivia. Teddy is a record holding trivia champion, but is put off his guard when he meets Maxine. They have an undeniable chemistry that is evident from their first encounter. As their rivalry morphs into a partnership, they begin to form a bond that goes much deeper, which opens them up to lessons in trust, love, and vulnerability.
Maxine is a bold character, unafraid to be herself, which makes her all the more endearing. Teddy is more reserved, which provides the perfect counter to Maxine's vivacious personality. The witty banter and laugh out loud moments make this an engaging and highly entertaining read!
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
Although the game that is the basis of this story is similar to Jeopardy, it is a general trivia game.
Teddy and Maxine meet on the set of the trivia game show and immediately hook up. Then life happens and they part ways, but one thing is set and that is Teddy has fallen for Max.
When they meet back up for a reunion match, their chemistry is almost too much and they retreat back into their old selves, but this time they don’t let matters ruin it. They fake their hate and that’s just the beginning of the slew of things that make this story unique and unlike anything I’ve read.
I LOVED this one! Jen’s writing and sense of humor really land with me. I was never bored with this one. I actually learned so much about high level trivia… who knew? lol. The banter and chemistry between the characters was super well done. I looooove an opposites attract moment. Easy 5 stars.
I’m a new fan of author Jen Comfort, when it comes to contemporary romance.
What is Love? Featuring game show champs, Maxine and Teddy, made for such a fun read!
*many thanks to Netgalley and publisher for the gifted copy for review.
What is Love? by Jen Comfort is a delightful and unique game show romance that perfectly blends intellect, humour, and sizzling chemistry. Maxine Hart, a street-smart trivia whiz, and Teddy Ferguson, a by-the-books trivia champion, are polar opposites, but their rivalry and undeniable attraction make for an entertaining and refreshing love story.
The concept of trivia as the foundation of their connection adds a quirky charm to the narrative. Maxine’s fierce, ADHD-driven thirst for knowledge contrasts beautifully with Teddy’s cautious, methodical approach, making their interactions both engaging and witty. Their romance sparks in unexpected ways, particularly after a surprising kiss that shifts their dynamic from competitive to complicated.
As they team up for a high-stakes trivia tournament, the story takes a deeper dive into the world of high-pressure competition and personal growth. Watching Maxine and Teddy push each other to confront their weaknesses - both in trivia and in life - is as heartwarming as it is amusing. Jen Comfort’s writing captures this balance with ease, crafting characters who are as emotionally layered as they are intelligent.
While some parts of the plot may follow familiar romance beats, the unique setting and clever dialogue keep the story fresh and engaging. What is Love? is a smart, fun, and feel-good read for anyone who enjoys a romance between intellectual equals, with plenty of laughter and sparks along the way.
REVIEW: What is Love?
What Is Love? by Jen Comfort is a delightful and witty romantic comedy that will leave you laughing out loud and swooning. This rivals-to-lovers story follows Maxine, a brilliant but impulsive trivia enthusiast, and Teddy, a reserved and methodical professor, as they team up to win a high-stakes trivia tournament.
Comfort's writing is sharp and engaging, and the characters are incredibly well-developed. Maxine and Teddy's contrasting personalities create a dynamic and entertaining duo. Their witty banter and sizzling chemistry will keep you hooked from the beginning.
The plot has hilarious twists and turns, and the trivia competitions are exciting and informative. The author's ability to seamlessly blend humor, romance, and intellectual challenges is impressive.
What Is Love? is a must-read for fans of romantic comedies and trivia enthusiasts. It's a fun, smart, and spicy read that will leave you wanting more.
Thank you, Netgalley and Montlake, for the free advanced copy for my honest review!
I didn't expect to get hooked as game show/reality TV scenarios aren't my favorite, but I enjoyed this rivals to lovers set against a Jeopardy-like backdrop. 3.5 stars!
I thought this was very good and I will have to add this to the shop shelves. Thank you for the chance for us to review.
Easily one of my fave romance writers. This was a blast from start to finish, sexy, sassy and fun. Loved the MCs.
Jen Comfort’s *What is Love* offers a refreshing take on modern romance with its clever blend of humor, heart, and introspection. The novel follows an engaging premise that explores the nature of love through a series of witty and heartfelt moments. Comfort’s sharp writing and well-developed characters make for a compelling read, keeping the story both entertaining and thought-provoking.
This was such an enjoyable read. Great love story and brilliant characters.
The way the relationship between Teddy and Maxine develops from a turbulent start through some loathing with undeniable sexual tension and into love and understanding.
I didn't know I needed a Jeopardy themed romance until I stumbled across What is Love? and became thoroughly charmed. Jen Comfort is an author to watch in the romantic comedy sphere!
I loved the concept of the book, but I wasn't a fan of the execution. I couldn't connect with the characters and how they fell in love.
I did enjoy the trivia part of the book - very "Smutty Jeopardy"!
I really enjoyed this one - very steamy!
I do agree with the other reviewers, the pacing did feel a little off.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for this arc. All views are my own.
FINALLY, a true romp that I had just the best time reading. I slowly savored this horny rivals-to-lovers over a week because finding a funny, sexy, and just absolutely so much fun romcom is really difficult for me to find
This book by Jen Comfort was a fantastic first read for me. I found the neurodivergent representation in this book to be well done and much appreciated. Due to their stark differences, the dynamic between the two main characters, Teddy and Maxine, was captivating. The intense rivalry between Teddy and Maxine as they delved into their trivia studies left me feeling giddy. Opposites attract big time! The wit, banter, and spice hooked me. The chemistry between Maxine and Teddy had me fully engaged, and the humor added an extra layer of enjoyment. I was genuinely impressed, and it even made me consider giving game shows another chance. Well, maybe not, but I adored this story. I'm excited to read more books by Jen Comfort.
Love Always, Catherine
I received a gifted ARC copy from NetGalley and Montlake. Thank you!
Thank you for my earc of this book. I liked the premise but this fell flat for me. The pacing was off and I didn’t finish
Oof, I wish I loved this. Met the author at a book event and she was sooo charming and personable! The nerdy plot and characters sounded so intriguing, but unfortunately it was the writing that fell flat for me. I didn’t feel invested in the storyline or characters at all.
Jen Comfort delivers another greatly propulsive book with unforgettable characters. Not only does the particular and unique setting of a game show makes this a book you can’t put down (because who will win????) but the two main characters are so fully developed and interesting that you can’t stop reading.