Member Reviews
I really enjoyed listening to The Rom-Commers by Katherine Center. I loved the wit, banter, and growth between the main characters. They both dealt with real life issues and struggles in a relatable and heartwarming way. If you are a fan of rom-coms, I highly recommend this one!
A huge thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the audiobook ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I certainly enjoy Katherine Center’s books. In a world with so much anger, it is nice to read or in this case listen to a fun uplifting book about love and kindness.
Thank you #NetGalley, #MacMillanAudio, #KatherineCenter, #PattiMurin and #TheRom-Commers for the advance audio version for my honest review.
Katherine Center’s BEST writing! Readers will love these two characters falling in love with each other. Emma’s character is sunshine positivity and hilariously relatable, and Charlie is the grumpy skeptic who is just likable enough to keep us interested. The banter is, of course, witty and entertaining, but it’s these two characters bringing out the best in the other that is truly a joy.
Center manages a perfect blend of angst and emotional turmoil while weaving in just enough lightheartedness and perfectly placed humor. The pacing of the story line builds anticipation in a way that makes it hard to take a break, and the resolution is well worth the wait. The Rom-Commers is exactly what a rom-com should be!
The narrator, Patti Murin, fully brings Emma Wheeler to life, adding a snappy quality that is just so fitting it makes Emma feel even more loveable.
The Rom-Commers is a gem of the genre. A must read for anyone who loves romcoms.
Two screenwriters - Charlie, who is hugely successful, and Emma, a struggling screenwriter who has spent 10 years caretaking for her dad - are thrown together to fix Charlie's disaster of a romcom script. He doesn't believe in love or romcoms. She, of course, adores them. But, her own life hasn't been easy. So while she's the one that believes in love, she isn't all sunshine and rainbows. Both Charlie and Emma have hard things they are healing from which makes the story so real and endearing.
I really enjoyed their banter and how their pasts slowly unfolded as they worked together.
As someone who has been married to 10 years to a person that I met when we became roommates, it was so fun to read about how Emma and Charlie's routines just fell together. Those, "Why is this just so easy?" feelings felt familiar. And those little moments when Emma starts to realize she has feelings for Charlie.
I listenened to the audiobook over 2 days and didn't want to pause for anything. Highly recommend!
Thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for giving me the opportunity to listen to an audiobook ARC of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
I have now listened to 3 Katherine Center books and this is easily my favorite. This book is so much more than a rom-com. It’s about the love you also have for your family. The narrator captured all of the complex emotions well (though I did not love the voice of Logan).
Now, let’s get into the story. Emma Wheeler, you sweet girl. I was nervous for you. Sometimes the things Charlie said were too mean. And yet she seemed always to be forgiving… the relationships between Emma and her family is what really flushed Emma’s character out. The bits of them sprinkled throughout really allowed for the third act to shine.
As I said before, some of what Charlie said in this book felt too mean. I think that’s the only reason for me that this book felt slightly less than 5 stars (it’s a 4.25 for me.) I remember physically wincing at one point. That being said, he and Emma charmed me when they were working together. It felt cheesy in the right way. It felt predictable in the right way. I would recommend this (especially if love rom-coms in book and film format).
Thank you to NetGalley and MacMillan audio for a audiobook Arc of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I am convinced that Katherine Center can do no wrong. I wasn't sure entirely what to expect going into this book, but let me just say, I'm obsessed.
I absolutely loved this book! Katherine Center creates such likable, enjoyable characters that I actually want to spend time with in real life! Aside from being great characters in this story, there is also the “Hollywood glitz and glamour” - seen from the outsider’s point of view, which adds a whole other level of fun.
If you’re a fan of Katherine Center, you’re going to love this book! Perfect for summer!
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
My only issue with this audiobook is that I finished it! Patti Murin is the perfect narrator for Katherine Center books! She manages to get the perfect pacing for the dialogue, the back-and-forth banter. I didn’t love Logan‘s voice, I know it was supposed to be a posh British accent, but he sounded too old to be Emma‘s contemporary.. however, since he supporting character, it did not diminish my love of this audio! Highly recommended! Thank you Macmillan Audio and NetGalley!
I have been reading alot of heavy books and really needed a lighter read that doesn't take itself too seriously and Rom-Commers fit the bill.
The audiobook is well done but would be even more engaging if there was a male narrator for Charlie. I felt a little more disconnected to Charlie as a result of it not being a male voice.
This is a closed door rom-com but unfortunately, if you do not want instances of harsh language and sexual dialogue you will want to skip this one.
wow wow wow. tempted to leave that as my review because WOW. i honestly had zero expectations going into this one. i was completely blown away with how much i loved this novel. katherine center is the queen of witty rom-coms with beautiful prose, top tier banter, and real human connections and the rom-commers is not exception.
every time when I read a romcom book about a girl being a fan girl of the male main character, it makes me so nostalgic, and reminds me of my girlhood - having justin bieber, One Direction and twilight movie posters all over my bedroom walls. it is like my girlhood dreams coming true. every moment of this book reminded me of the precious art form of going through life ✨NOTICING✨. what i mean by that, is noticing the precious little moments throughout your day that make up this great and wonderful life. that tragedy is unfortunately a given but surrounding yourself with the people you love, while recognizing the mundane will only make us appreciate those really big moments. katherine wrote every relationship in this story with such heart and soul. the conversations and (at times) conflicts felt so real and human. truly so beautiful.
this book felt like an early 2000’s romcom dream. the themes of grief and finding ones purpose while navigating hardships was so beautiful. emma is a new favourite FMC. she truly felt like my best friend. a true fellow lover girlie and romantic. not to mention, the PINNING and GROVELLING that king charlie did was truly everything to me. had me kicking my feet with the biggest smile on my face (🍩 iykyk 🥹). i saw myself in both charlie + emma in many different themes so that was so so special. i swear i was crying during the entire epilogue lol.
patti murin did a phenomenal job narrating and bringing this story to life. there wasn’t a single moment where i thought the audio was lacking or taking away from the story. P.S. the bonus scene of charlie’s POV during the diving board scene in the audiobook was EVERYTHING TO ME!!!!
some of my favourite quotes:
- “what do i need to do to make you stay” 🫠
- “because last night when i was reading your stuff, i wanted to work with you and i havent wanted anything in a very very long time” 😭
- “i think that you’re my favourite person i’ve ever met”🤧
- “i’ve known you six weeks and i already can’t imagine my life without you” 🥲
if this book isn’t on your radar, you MUST add it to the top of your list. i will forever be recommending. thank you macmillan audio for the ARC!! pub date: june 11th! 💗
A great story about loss, grief, love, and hope.
Emma - the selfless, caring, loving, responsible daughter and big sister who gave up her dreams of being a screenwriter for 10 years to care for her sick father, now has an opportunity to make them true.
I can say that I connected with Emma in a personal level. Having to put your life on hold for the people you love. Putting your needs and wants last, so you can give them a sense of security and love. Feeling that guilt of wanting to move on and making those dreams come true...
I liked that both her sister and father were very supportive, and I could understand why Emma was comfortable with her life. She was so used to being the "maternal" figure for her little sister and the caretaker for her father, that she forgot about her dreams for a while.
Charles Yates was a jerk. A very disrespectful and rude jerk. That was my impression of him throughout the entire story...up until the end. The end made me understand that Charles was afraid. Afraid to love and be loved. Afraid of hurting the one person who had gotten him out of that "writer's block."
I enjoyed the tug of war between Emma and Charles Yates but sometimes felt irritated with Emma for "begging" for his love. Had she no dignity? Self-love? But I could see why she would insist. Those feelings are hard to hide, even for the biggest jerks to ever exist.
I laughed out loud a few times at Emma's dialogue and internal monologue. She is very high spirited and optimistic.
Katherine Center is such a great author! The way she brought awareness to her readers not only about mental health but also the hardships of dealing with the loss of a loved one and dealing with survivors' guilt. Many great messages were received from this story and I enjoyed it very much.
I always say, if a book/story makes the reader FEEL, then the author is doing her/his job!
Thank you to Netgalley, Macmillan Audio, and Katherine Center for the complimentary audio in exchange for the honest review. Also, great job to the narrator, Patti Murin (and of course Katherine) !
This book was recommended to me by a friend and I loved it. I listened to the Audiobook version and was hooked from the start. I found myself looking for things to do that would allow me to listen to it and was sucked in at every listen. So sad when it ended but I loved the ending. If only all books could be this good.
Thanks to my friend Apryl for the recommendation and to NetGalley and the Publisher for the copy of the ARC.
THE ROM-COMMERS by Katherine Center is a heartwarming, sweet romance with lots of humor and wit! Protagonist Emma is a caretaker for her father, on top of raising her younger sister after the tragic death of their mother. The author plies the storyline with emotional depth, between Emma’s family and her idol, the reclusive screenwriter, Charlie Yates. It’s also a story about Emma finding inner strength to grab hold of and hang on to what she wants after sacrificing most of her life to care for her family. I especially loved Emma’s dad’s positive attitude and humorous outlook on life, despite the tragedy that took his independence and took his wife’s life. The story grabbed my attention from the very first and held on throughout the entire book, leaving me with a smile on my face as I read the last word. I enjoyed The Rom-Commers so much I immediately went in search of other books by Katherine Center and added her list to follow for future books.
I was provided with an advance audiobook, thanks to Macmillan Audio and Netgalley. The narrators, Katherine Center and Patti Murin, did a marvelous job capturing both the voices of the characters as well as their attitudes and personalities.
The Rom-Commers is an absolute delight—a must-read for anyone who loves a good rom-com!
Emma Wheeler's dream of becoming a screenwriter finally gets its big break when she lands a chance to work with her idol, Charlie Yates. But things quickly take a turn when she realizes Charlie is not the romantic hero she imagined—he's cynical, dismissive, and utterly uninterested in the romantic comedy they're supposed to be writing together.
As Emma fights to prove herself and save the project, sparks fly between her and Charlie in a way that even the best rom-com scripts couldn't predict. Katherine Center weaves a charming and hilarious tale of love, friendship, and the power of believing in your dreams.
With witty banter, swoon-worthy moments, and plenty of laugh-out-loud scenes, "The Rom-Commers" is a refreshing take on the classic romantic comedy. The author's writing is sharp, her characters are relatable, and the chemistry between Emma and Charlie is electric. Don't miss this heartwarming and entertaining read—it's sure to leave you with a smile on your face and a warm feeling in your heart.
The narrator did a fantastic job and added a lot to the story! Her narration made for a great listening experience.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Thank you NetGalley and Macmillan Audio!
As a fan of Katherine Center, I had high expectations going into the Rom-Commers. The one thing that is almost always guaranteed with Katherine's novels is a certain depth and characters that are real and relatable. The Rom-Commers is true to its title. It is a Rom Com. The characters don't necessarily have all that much depth and are a bit disconnected. Despite some characters falling flat I did enjoy the story and did find myself laughing out loud at certain points. Is this my favorite Katherine Center novel? No. Did I enjoy it? Yes. Will I continue to flock toward any new releases from Katherine Center. Absolutely.
‘Because love is something you can learn. Love is something you can practice. It’s something you can choose to be good at.’
This was my first Katherine Center book & it will not be my last. This is a book that will make your heart so happy and put a big smile on your face.
One thing about Emma is she is head over heels in love with writing, but unfortunately she hasn’t been able to pursue it as a career. Instead, she became the sole caregiver for her father after a horrible accident. Then she is presented with an opportunity to go to Los Angeles and help her favorite screenwriter fix his disaster of a script. How can she say no to that? It’s everything she’s ever wanted. To write, to meet her favorite author… what more could she ask for! Until those 6 weeks completely change her life.
You definitely need to check out Emma & Charlie’s story in The Rom-Commer by Katherine Center! If you’re looking for a funny, lighthearted romance this is the one for you!
Thank you to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for this ALC.
[3.5/5 ] I found this book enjoyable. But I did struggled to connect with the characters, something was missing in their relationship. Not really a fan of miscommunication so, there's that. The story was great, funny and sweet.
Thanks to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for providing the chance to listen to this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
I laughed, I cried, I fell in love with the characters, and I wish I could read it again for the first time! Katherine Center never ceases to amaze me with her realistic characters and engaging storylines. Thank you to @netgalley @katherinecenter and the publisher for the advanced review copy.
I think The Rom-Commers might be my favorite book from Katherine Center. I was completely obsessed with this book and was lucky enough to get both the audiobook and digital copy of this ARC.
Emma Wheeler has spent her life taking care of other people and has made herself a side character in her own story. When an opportunity to work with her all-time favorite screenwriter, Charlie Yates, to fix a ROM-COM that can only be described as apocalyptic, her family convinces her to fly to Los Angeles. The only problem, Charlie Yates has no intentions of this script becoming a reality. Emma is not going down without a fight and wants to turn this script into something she can be proud of even if that means teaching Charlie about love.
Emma is perfect as the main character. She was so witty and entertaining. Her comebacks she had during the arguments with Charlie had me laughing out loud. Her character constantly broke the fourth wall and I felt that it added to the story. The chemistry between Emma and Charlie was spot on and I loved their banter discussing the semantics of a ROM-COM.
This book had everything that I look for in a Romance and highly suggest the audiobook. The narrator was perfectly casted for this book and listened any chance I could get. Add this book to your TBR ASAP!
The Rom-Commers releases June 11th.
Thank you to NetGalley, MacMillan Audio and St. Martin Press for the opportunity to review The Rom-Commers. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
After reading some pretty heavy thrillers and historical fiction, this romcom was perfect timing! It’s like when you flip on the tv or streaming and there is “Notting Hill” just speaking to you. (Note: I never skip Notting Hill).
Emma is a screenwriter with a stalled career, when she gets the opportunity to ghost write and fix a romcom screenplay of one of Hollywood’s legendary screenwriters, for anything other than romcom. Well, you can probably figure out how it goes.
Let’s just say the characters are ❤️😘🙌💎. The story is full of heart and comedy, and well, it is itself a romcom about writing a romcom. So, yeah. Romcom lovers of the world come hither and grab this book. You will thank me.
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