I absolutely loved this book. It's hard to get the balance right when writing a main character that lives with an illness, especially mental illnesses like anxiety, depression, and ADHD, but she nailed it. And the romance itself was perfect--a little spicy, a little sweet, and the problems they have felt realistic as did the resolution. Great debit!

This book was absolutely one that the reader knows all of the information and we get to watch the characters slowly come to the knowledge we were given from the beginning. It was completely satisfying to see the ending of this one and all the twists and turns along the way. It was a beautiful way of learning to listen to a partner with mental health needs.

#arc
#netgalley
#flirtylittlesecret

I thought this was a super cute book for a debut author. It definitely gave "You've Got Mail" vibes and that's exactly what drew me to the book. Flirty texting is 100% my love language.

I loved the way that this book dealt with mental health issues and there were some very cute, romantic moments. There were also some moments that just didn't work for me. The insta love in person was a little difficult to process and the naming of an after school group didn't hit the mark for me. The way the author discusses and described mental health issues was very well done and for me, that was a highlight of this book. Thank you netgalley for this arc in exchange for my honest opinion.

I had been seeing so much about this book on Instagram, and I always worry those books won't live up to the hype. I'm happy to say, Flirty Little Secret totally did. Lucy and Fletcher are so likable and charming. They're realistic and flawed, but so easy to root for. I loved watching their friendship evolve from online to real life, even if they didn't know it at the time. Both Lucy and Fletcher struggle with other people's expectations of them, which I could relate to and I think so many other readers will see bits of themselves as well. Learning not to let other people hold you back is such an important lesson.

And beyond that, this book is just lots of rom-com fun.

The depiction of Lucy's depression was so well done. It's something she constantly lives with, not something that goes away because her family loves her unconditionally or she has a supportive partner. Those factors are important, but it's really the way Lucy views herself that matters. And I loved her journey, from never feeling like enough to realizing her worth regardless of those outside factors.

Even the side characters are distinct and realistic. Fletcher's family dynamic is complicated, and Lucy's is loud and loving and overbearing at times. Her relationship with her sisters is hilarious and supportive, and his issues with his father fuel a lot of his growth in the novel. Everyone brings something important to the story, and nothing feels unnecessary.

In a book that touches on the concept of anti-semitism, racism, and mental health, the use of the “KKK” acronym as a representation for the Konfident Kids Klub really missed the mark for me. Coming from a background where I had to learn about how closely “grand wizards” effected the daily lives of my community and beyond made this come across as incredibly distasteful.

That being said, I did enjoy the Abbott Elementary feel of the story and the positive way in which mental health representation was handled in the story overall.

Flirty Little Secret is an enjoyable romance between a high school teacher and a guidance counselor, with a touch of You’ve Got Mail thrown in. Jessica Lepe’s debut is filled with charming characters and their families, and lots of refreshing depression, anxiety, ADHD and Jewish representation.

Lucy is a high school guidance counselor who also has a secret online alter ego, @ TheMissGuidedCounselor, where she dispenses the advice she wishes she was bold enough to share IRL. When she meets Fletcher, the new history teacher, she has no idea he’s also her anonymous online friend. Fletcher moved home due to family issues, and isn’t prepared for meeting Lucy, or running into his ex when he starts his new job. But as the two grow closer, and Lucy shares the reality of her mental health, what happens when Fletcher figures out Lucy’s secret?

The mental health representation here is great. Lucy’s experiences show not only how depression and anxiety affect her daily like, but how they make it more difficult to connect with new people. And, Lucy’s family is tons of fun to spend time with. While they sometimes feel overbearing to her, the way they love and support her is obvious. I adore the descriptions of their Shabbat dinners, for both the family dynamics and the amazing food.

I highlighted soooo much of this ebook. Truly, SO MUCH. Jessica Lepe is hilarious and her writing is just amazing, I really can't believe this is a debut novel and I hope she plans on writing many more romcoms because I ate this up!

The main characters are lovably flawed and there are so many fantastic, unique side characters. I love how much each of the MC's families are involved in this romance. It gives insight to both Lucy and Fletcher but also just makes it a really fun read with lots of funny moments only family members can create. Flirty Little Secret is a perfect mix of sweet, swoony, heartfelt and funny. I was smiling most of the way through, definitely laughed out loud in a few places, but also really felt deeply for our MCs in other places. Lucy is a guidance counselor with an anonymous account that gives amazing advice and her on page encounters felt so authentic that when I read at the back that Jessica is a former social worker it did not surprise me at all. I have a background in social work (though I chose not to pursue it professionally because I didn't want to leave my library <3) so I really loved that aspect of Lucy's character and the experience Jessica brought to her character. Lucy's mental health issues also made her character extra real and relatable because I know so many people who expect guidance counselors, therapists, social workers etc. to be perfect and completely put together problem solvers but forget that they're people too with their own issues. It just made me love Lucy all the more and her nosy, extra involved, big family made me so happy. Fletcher is a teacher from a wealthy family that's been falling apart; his family was never really all that close and Fletcher is used to running from his emotions rather than sticking around to confront the problems. But he also is immediately there when his mom needs him and is so supportive of Lucy when she's having a panic attack. He's definitely a cinnamon roll but with avoidant tendencies.

The chemistry between Lucy and Fletcher is palpable from their very first *embarrassing* meeting, which makes sense since they're besties online. I love the interactions between the two via their anonymous accounts. They're funny, comfortable and supportive and really know each other on a deeper level despite not knowing who the other is irl. When Fletcher finds out that @TheMissGuidedCounselor is Lucy, he doesn't tell her right away but he also doesn't try to pull one over on her or anything. I can imagine it would be awkward to realize your real life crush and online bestie are one and the same and trying to navigate that would be hard. Every interaction between Lucy and Fletcher feels so genuine and realistic, I really love them together and individually. Amira, one of Lucy's sisters, also was a favorite for me! Everything that her character says is hysterical and she definitely brings the comic relief but is also so supportive of Lucy and makes sure she knows how amazing she is. The on page depictions of depression and anxiety are super well done and I think many readers will be able to relate to Lucy and be just as supportive as her sisters. The family dynamics are so different for Lucy and Fletcher -- I definitely have more of Lucy's family -- and they bring a lot of depth to the story. We meet Lucy's sisters, parents, aunts, cousins who are always getting together and are very involved in each other's lives and we meet Fletcher's siblings, parents, and his dad's mistress which gives very different vibes and though they don't have as much on page time, their interactions are just as important to the story. I feel like I haven't given any spoilers and I really hope that's true, I just could say so many good things about this book that I'm definitely rambling! Basically, it's an amazing, touching romcom with a whole cast of lovable, fun, unique characters that will make you want to read more. I hope everyone gets their own book honestly because Amira, Julieta, Nia, Brodie -- they alllll would make great main characters and I'd certainly keep reading about this whole community.

I think everyone should read this debut novel from Jessica Lepe. She has a beautiful way with words and writes with such a sincere voice. Also, as mentioned a few times above, she's HILARIOUS. You will not be disappointed if you pick this one up!

Thank you so much to Forever for this eARC via NetGalley that I have voluntarily read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.

Flirty Little Secret is a stand alone romance featuring Lucy and Aldrich. They meet when Lucy dumps her tea on his pants in the teachers lounge on Aldrich's first day of teaching there, then she tries to clean it off. But is that the first time they've met? Lucy has a secret online identity that she's been using giving out advise as a friendly online counsellor and she's been messaging someone anonymously for awhile now quickly becoming close friends. He wants to meet in person but she wants to keep her identity a secret. What happens when her two lives come crashing together and the reality of online vs in person hits?

This has great representation including a mental breakdown turned romantic showing how perfect Aldrich is for Lucy. Throw in some family drama on his side, nosy sisters from her side, mouth watering food descriptions from Lucy's family restaurant, and you get one fun romance that is hard to put down.

Flirty Little Secret by Jessica Lepe
Contemporary romance. Mental health issues. Alternating 1st person POV’s for Lucy and Fletcher.
Lucy Galindo is a high school guidance counselor. She is good at her job but she hides her own anxiety and depression with the help of a hidden and remodeled closet that she can escape to when needed. She uses the room to cry, to unwind and retreat from the pressure of life. Lucy also has a secret identity in an online column she writes. Writing the column, she can be positive, bold and always have the right advice to give. She can make the column her own, while hiding her own fears and tears.
New History teacher Fletcher moved to the small public school in Massachusetts to help his mother recover. The timing worked well since he was burned out at the private school and their policies. Fletcher is immediately intrigued with his new coworker, Lucy. She makes him laugh and simply feel better around her. The more time he spends with Lucy and her family and getting to know her well enough to accept her ADHD, her depression he begins to care for her even more. Just a few more facts and he discovers that he and Lucy have been sharing texts for awhile under assumed names as part of her advice column. They were already friends before they had even met. But will she trust him if he reveals their backstory?

I want to say it was nice and welcoming to read a “non perfect” heroine, but I’m don’t want to label her that way. I found Lucy delightful and charming, regardless of her depression induced crying, or her not being able to go shopping. All of us have felt overwhelmed at times or many of us have cried at the silliest of events. Life is messy and this heroine has the diagnosis to explain her issues but she also has a great supportive family that will love her no matter what. That is priceless and Lucy embraces them.
The romance is enchanting and Fletcher being enamored with Lucy feels comforting. The lack of openness on the secret identities felt contrived and unnecessary but the grand gesture made it worth it. A wonderful ending for a perfect pairing.

I received a copy of this from NetGalley.

This debut novel started a little rough for me. It opens with a meet cute that was more wincing than humorous to me. School Counselor Lucy Galindo is really good at her job. Unfortunately she is always on edge trying to balance her depression and anxieties. The one place she is confident is in her Instagram persona where she has a half million followers. New to the high school is history teacher Aldrich Fletcher. He left teaching at a prestigious private school to return home to support his mother through an emotional time. In a nod to You’ve Got Mail or The Shop Around the Corner Aldrich and Lucy have been exchanging direct messages for months and developing an online friendship.

Where it is good is in showing Lucy being good at her job despite her mental health and neurodivergence. I also liked the Jewish representation and how it impacts how Lucy sees herself. Those two things alone are a lot. Her family is wonderfully supportive and loving. But one of her sisters made me cringe almost every time she opened her mouth. She is supposed to bring comic relief but she was so over the top in her comments I genuinely thought of DNFing the story because of her alone. She can be crass, but knowing she truly loves her sister and she knows her issues, I can’t imagine anyone thinking she is a realistic character.

The story gives chapters from both POVs. It felt like Lucy got the larger share as she has long internal monologues especially when she is anxious. There is a lot of humor in the story but not many surprises. It relies on coincidence and miscommunication. I didn’t doubt Lucy loved her job but was never sure about Aldrich. By the end I bought into the romance and enjoyed reading it. (3.5 Stars)

Guidance counselor Lucy has created the online persona of @themissguidedcounselor, the all knowledgeable teacher and life guru. She has struck up a meaningful relationship with @bravesguy93, who just happens to be the new hot history teacher Fletcher. As they interact at school more both Lucy and Fletcher develop feelings for each other. The problem is Lucy doesn’t think she deserves love and dealing with her mental health issues is a full time job. Fletcher sees how wonderful Lucy is, but will pretty much do or say anything to avoid confrontation which creates problems. Will they both be able to work on themselves enough to move past their fears and be the partners they both deserve?

This book hit home in a lot of ways for me. As a precious professional educator I know the toll it can take on mental health, so I absolutely connected with Lucy in that way. I also struggle with confrontation like Fletcher so I connected with his character as well. Not to mention he is the sweetest possible guy! The supporting characters of the high school students and Lucy’s sisters are absolutely hilarious and bring some comedic relief while dealing with the heavy topics of not just mental health but religion and infidelity as well. What a wonderful debut!

"I am looking at you. And nothing I see is scaring me away. If anything, it makes me want to get to know you better."

4-⭐⭐⭐⭐

Flirty Little Secret is an adult standalone contemporary romcom following are chaotic guidance counsellor Lucy. On social media Lucy has crafted the perfect persona under the popular advice guru, @LittleMissGuided but at home and work she is chaos, juggling chronic mental health struggles and blending far into the background to avoid confrontation. Yet when she meets the new history teacher she finds her struggling to keep away from the charming man...especially when he appears to like the very quirks she attempts to hide.

Fletcher has returned home to handle some family drama that is never ending, including an ex girlfriend at work wanting to "try again." The only solace he has comes from his online friendship with LittleMissGuided, the woman who has been his confident for years. What he never expected was that the adorable guidance counsellor at his work turns out to be the same person he relied for years. With fears of change and being true to yourself, Lucy and Fletcher must decide will they embrace the reality or be lost behind the screens?

This book is a true comfort read for someone wanting to feel heard but also still enjoy of romcom that gets you in the feels.

Lucy is a character I truly felt for. She struggles with depression, anxiety, and feeling like she doesn't have it all together. At the same time, she reminds up having these diagnoses and feelings of worth don't mean you are these things every day and I felt she is a character so many can relate to as a result. Watching her have to confront and accept herself who all she is was a rewarding journey.

Aldrich Fletcher is an easy male protagonist to fall for. He is dealing with so much chaos at home and he, on the surface, seems like he should have it all together but he also struggles to make a stance. I enjoyed how Lucy (both behind the screen and in person) challenged him a bit and reminded him he needed to choose. I felt he reminded me that male love interests can but just as a flawed and yet still wonderful.

I also want to give a shout out to Nia who was the most amazing side character. She validated so much of Lucy and I feel like she embodies the person we all look for in our lives. Lucy's sisters also deserve a shout out because they were so supportive and a nuisance all a the same time and I love it.

This book does contain spice. I would place it at 1.5 spicy peppers out of 5 spicy peppers. The romance is absolutely adorable in this book. I loved the banter and the intimacy that came with them being comfortable with each other. This intimacy wasn't specially sexual but things like a touch, a helping hand, and more. This romance is a spark that is coached into a flame and when the spice finally hits in the second half of the book I was squealing.

"I mean, he did tell me he wanted to more than friends yesterday, but didn't want to hit on me while I was having a mental breakdown in a closet, which if that isn't an example of modern day chivalry, I don't know what is."

In terms of the story, this book is an effortless read as we navigate awkward first meetings, exes drama, family crises, struggles of self worth, and confronting the truth. I felt the high school aspects was a little underdeveloped but could see the significance. Also the name of the one club I cannot believe would ever be accepted in schools right now XD. I felt the romance between Lucy and Fletcher had me from the beginning and there is a bit of a third act conflict but it was expected. It did mean I felt a bit of anxiety reading Fletcher's POV as I waited for the foot to fall but I will say the side character did an amazing job to tie everything together. I think my only wish was that we had more of an epilogue to see these two lovebirds together more.

Overall, this book is adorable, meaningful, and easy to devour! I cannot wait to see what Jessica creates for next because her debut book was wonderful.

Thank you Forever Publishing for the arc!

This was such a wonderful read. I believe this is her debut novel, and I’m like dang okay. I loved the mental health rep as well as how connected I felt to Lucy. It’s so hard to be your true self for fear of ridicule and the author did a fantastic job capturing that. I can’t wait to read more from this author .

Lucy is a high school guidance counselor who deals with ADHD, anxiety and depression. She has a secret Instagram account called the missguided counselor. She has an embarrassing experience with the new history teacher Mr. Fletcher. Mr. Fletcher is dealing with family drama and has found a friend online who is a guidance counselor. 😉

What I really liked: Lucy's family and her relationship with Fletcher. Her words of counseling to others were really helpful.

What I disliked: Lucy was quick to judge and assume the worst of others. She was quick to judge Fletcher. She was mad and blocked him when she found out he knew that they were friends online. It didn't seem that big of a deal. 🤷

Overall, a fun romance. I had a hard time putting the book down and read it in one sitting. I laughed and cried during the book.

Flirty Little Secret was one of these books. A couple met on Instagram where a high school guidance counselor posts advice and a teacher turned to her for said advice. They hit it off and because online buddies. And lo and behold, they end up working at the same school. You can figure out the rest. All that being said, this was really cute. I loved the families, I loved the scenes at the school, I loved the very real look at mental health issues, I loved the sweet romance, notwithstanding the frustrating nature of the underlying plot. It was a nice frothy fluffy read to distract me from a very stressful work week.

2.5/5

Original:
This book was an entertaining read for me. I almost DNF'd due to an unsettling comment early on in the book, but continued and I enjoyed seeing the story unfold. Fletcher and Lucy's romance was certainly swoon-worthy.

What I enjoyed:
Lucy's family, their heritage and traditions, and closeness with one-another
The vulnerability and honestly about Lucy's ADHD and depression
Fletcher's character growth and his family
Truly, the secondary characters in this book MADE it!

What I struggled with:
At times, it felt like the romance went from 0-60 super fast and that made it less believable.
Also, I didnt love how Fletcher's body/looks were described as so perfect because it really contributed to the "how could someone so hot love someone like me" narrative that I just wasn't into!
The book tried to do a lot in the juxtapositions between the characters (hot v less hot, rich v poor, waspy white v Mexican-Moroccan, Jewish v not) so some things felt unfinished/half baked.

Revised my star rating from 3.75 to 2.5 after a reread.
Upon closer reading, the KKK jokes were wildly inappropriate. Like immediate star deduction. I don't understand why they were there.
I also recently learned that the author herself is not Latine and I read this book thinking she was so that really colors my view of the book and the representation.

“𝙄 𝙙𝙤𝙣’𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙠 ‘𝙇𝙪𝙘𝙮 𝙂𝙖𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙙𝙤’ 𝙖𝙣𝙙 ‘𝙢𝙚𝙙𝙞𝙤𝙘𝙧𝙚’ 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙗𝙚𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙜 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙖𝙢𝙚 𝙨𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙚.”

I am so excited to share this one because it has ALLLLL the representation. What you’re going to see:
▫️Jewish-Mexican-Moroccan fmc family
▫️fmc has anxiety, ADHD, and depression
▫️she’s on medication for her mental health
▫️her sister is part of the lgbtqia community

I mean come on, that’s insane, in a good way! It was so so nice to have a character who is so relatable & taking care of her mental health even though it is so damn hard.

I also loved her relationship with Fletcher (aka Aldrich but goes by Fletcher). He’s so compassionate and understanding with her. Plus their compatibility was off the charts. Loooove!

My only complaint would be that the plot itself seems a little slow. Not a whole lot actually happens during the book and I would’ve loved to have more substance. I have a feeling this author will only get better in the future though as it’s her first published book. Regardless, I’m off to go buy the paperback now hehe 🤍

This was such a fun book! I loved all of the ways their differing backgrounds and families changed them, and made the main characters who they are. I love the depictions of mental health, the struggles, the support, it was beautifully written and seemed honest. Their romance was great, they felt so comfortable together and I love that she felt safe with him to reveal her anxious and bold sides. Definitely worth reading!

This was so cute! I really love the way that it unfolded and had so much fun while reading. I wish I could stay in the world longer!