Edie, a normal person, is dating Elliot, a Very Famous Person. He has to travel internationally to work on films while Edie stays in their hometown to pursue her own career. The long distance, work relationships, and their respective insecurities put a strain on relationship. They love each other and want to make it work, but is that enough?

I enjoyed the cast of characters. After Edie was outcasted at work, it was nice that a new coworker came in and treated her without judgement. I kept thinking I knew which way the story would go, but as I kept reading I was also confused which way I was supposed to root for as a reader. This was my second McFarlane book and I look forward to reading the rest of her work!

I was really drawn to this book because of the author. In practice though I struggled to connect with the plot and ended up not finishing it. Thank you for the arc in exchange for an honest review.

I read this book without initially knowing it was a sequel. Despite not having read the first one, I really enjoyed it. This is my second by McFarlane and she writes such depth to her characters that we often don’t find in a romance. This isn’t heavy on plot, but rather on how Edie and Elliott navigate a relationship, which we often don’t see in this genre and I felt it was explored well. Fans of hers and particularly those who read the first one will be happy with this one, or others such as myself who come in blind.

Thank you to NetGalley and Avon Publishing.

Mhairi McFarlane is my favorite romcom author but I was disappointed with this follow up to Who’s That Girl? (2015). The author has been playing with the romcom format for a while and I have generally enjoyed her twists within a pretty rigid genre: though the plots may not be traditional, the romance and sprightly comedy are always top notch. This one just didn’t work for me.

Picking up from where Who’s That Girl? ended, everywoman Edie Thompson and glossy famous actor Elliot Owen decide to give it a go, despite the strain his career puts on their relationship. And there’s part of my problem: instead of the usual will they-won’t they we have a couple who are trying to make it work. It should be an interesting wrinkle on the romcom format but I found it a bit of a contrived slog instead. It didn’t help that I found myself not particularly caring about Edie and Elliot.

Edie’s career is taking off as she now runs the Nottingham branch of London advertising agency Ad Hoc with a new work colleague, Declan. Unlike the author’s previous novels, there is little focus on Edie’s life outside her romance; her friend group and family are very much back burnered and her professional triumphs are downplayed. This is usually the area where the author scores, with fully rounded out characters and a believable complex life for the main character. Instead we just have a lot of angst about tabloids and gossip.

However, the author has kept her genre-topping sharp wit and ridiculously funny banter, even if it occasionally feels misplaced. That alone will keep me coming back.

Thanks to Avon and Netgalley for the digital review copy.

3/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Was confused at first since i didn't know there was a book before this one, so I had to go back and read that one first! But overall, a good read 😊

Thank you, Netgalley, for the chance to read this 🩷🥹

I'm such a fan of Mhairi McFarlane's writing.
You Belong with Me is a sequel to Who's That Girl which I didn’t know going in. I wish I had read the first book before.

Overall I really enjoyed this book and had a fun time reading it.
Thank you NetGalley and HarperCollins UK for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

I didn't think Who's That Girl needed a sequel before I started this, and I still don't think it does now that I'm done. The same problems that caused Edie and Elliot to not work in the first book are the same problems that cause them to not work in this one. Even after the ending, I still don't feel like they resolved any of their major issues. Edie needs to do a bit more self reflection. It is just so tiring to hear her become jealous again and again and hold Elliot up to a standard she herself does not meet over and over. I thought Elliot was boring in the first book and I still think he's boring in this one. This book made me question whether they should really be a couple.

The humor in this was a bit too aggressively British for me to enjoy, but to be fair all of the Mhairi McFarlane books I have read have been so as well. I think if you usually enjoy her humor you will continue to enjoy it in this book.

This book felt unnecessary to me, but if you love Edie and Elliot and felt unsatisfied by the ending of the first book you may find something to enjoy in this.

This was a cute book. Part of reading it was my bad, as I didn't know it was book 2 in a series. I feel like I need to go back and re-read that one.

I didn't realize that this was a continuation from a previous book, but now that I know, I understand why the beginning was all in from the start.

I actually kinda liked that about it, although since I didn't have prior knowledge of the friend group, some of those bits were hard to decifer. Also Mhairi's writing style is very jokey and make fun, which I appreciate, but it was a little hard to get into it from the start. Usually I really enjoy that kind of writing because my brain hasn't met a side tangent it doesn't like, but like I said, was a little jarring to just jump into.

I did enjoy that these characters had what most likely resembles relationship drama, I mean however close one can get when one is a very popular actor, but the jealousy feelings felt that of something one would typically feel in a relationship where things are a bit uneven in the way that Edie felt.

It had addictive parts when we were trying to sleuth out the leaker, and just how sharp witted they were with each other.

All in all, a good read.

Thank you to Avon Books and Netgalley for an e-copy.

Mhairi McFarlane does it again. She has written another book that feels so real.

I read "Who's That Girl" for the first time right before I started this book. I discovered Mhairi McFarlane and hadn't gotten to that book yet. So with the 2nd one coming out, it was the perfect time. And I'm glad I did read them back to back! I needed more Elliot and Edie immediately. (Note: you really should read the 1st book before reading this, I personally do not consider this a standalone).

You Belong With Me picks up right where Who's That Girl ends. Elliot and Edie decide to give their relationship a true shot. To summarize a quote The Notebook: "it's not going to be easy, it's going to be really hard. But I want you, forever".

This book takes us on that journey. And wow what a journey it is. McFarlane has opened my eyes to many things. Like....don't believe any celebrity gossip you read online unless it's coming directly from the celebrity. It's most likely 1000% a lie, and if it is coming from them...it may not be the full truth. Celebrities deserve privacy. Elliot and Edie went through a lot together in a short amount of time, simply because the media posted lies about them constantly. It seemed exhausting. But their relationship was truly a testament that love can get you through a lot. Challenges can stretch and grow relationships and if you allow it to, it can make the relationship stronger.

Elliot is the fully package of a book Boyfriend. The gestures he makes to be what Edie needs each and every time are so swoony.
"You do belong here, Edie, because you belong with me. And I belong with you." SWOON.

There is so much character growth in Who's The Girl and that continues in this book. We see Edie embracing her life and the "ah ha" moments from book 1.

I don't want to spoil the book, so I'm going to end by saying that this book pulls at your heartstrings and feels so genuine. Another job well done, Mhairi McFarlane.

"That's when home is another person. Wherever you are, you're home to me."

Thank you Netgalley and Avon and Harper Voyager for providing me with a copy of this book.

I wasn’t one of those WHO’S THAT GIRL? fans who were disappointed, confused, or upset by the ending. I felt–and continue to feel–like I understand Edie so well that I would’ve acted in precisely the same way. But when YOU BELONG WITH ME, the surprise sequel, was announced, every nerve on my body perked up with anticipation. It took me on a rollercoaster of emotions, but YOU BELONG WITH ME is a worthwhile and satisfying continuation of Edie and Elliot’s relationship.

Edie and Elliot have decided to give their relationship a go. This is already hard enough because Elliot is in New York filming a hot new TV series with a magnetic co-star, while Edie’s life in Nottingham is flourishing with the arrival of a surprisingly charming new coworker. But they also have to grapple with events from their past and personal lives being blasted all over global gossip pages. With both external and internal voices telling them that they won’t work out, that this is just a temporary relationship before they move on to partners better suited for their different lifestyles, what will become of our favorite MMcF couple?

I have a massive emotional book hangover after this. For anyone who’s ever wished to read more about their favorite couple after the HEA, YOU BELONG WITH ME is SO good. I already knew that Elliot had great Boyfriend potential after Who’s That Girl?, but he exceeds expectations here. Whether he’s nearby or an ocean away, he always does all he can to support Edie, validating her concerns and so on. Indeed, the onus is often on Edie to convince herself and show Elliot that she is as committed to them as he is… something she struggles with for the whole book.

Call me a sucker for reacting this way, but for the last 100 pages or so my heart was in my throat, my hand was in front of my gaping-open mouth, and I was trying to hurtle through the pages before my heart shut down out of anxiety for these two. It’s so satisfying to watch the unfolding of a relationship and be like, Yep, these two are it, this is exactly how my favorite couple would deal with XYZ. 10/10 no notes for the emotional rollercoaster these two took me on.

Lest I get my reviewer cred revoked, I will acknowledge that some of the subplots felt too easily resolved too early on, and that I didn’t really like the Declan storyline. All in all, though, this is the dream sequel I never knew I needed. If you adored Who’s That Girl? as much as I did, if you’re as big a MMcF fan as I am, then reading YOU BELONG WITH ME is a no-brainer. Thank you, MMcF. This will be a treasured story I shall read again and again.

Based on my thoughts, I didn’t enjoy the writing style of this book which is disappointing because I enjoy Mhairi McFarlane books. I was excited to have a squeal however that excitement is probably the only reason I was able to complete the book.

Note I will continue to read McFarlane books, this one just didn’t hit.

You belong with me is a book that perfectly combines romance with emotional and comic overtones at the same time. The love between Elliot and Edie held me captive from the first pages of the book.

In addition to the rest of the secondary characters that provided the story with the necessary dynamics to make it an endearing book. I want more stories with this trope between an actor and an ordinary person. I loved it from beginning to end.

Edie Thompson has sealed the deal with famous actor Elliott Owen. What comes next? Poor communication.

First off, I didn’t realize this was a sequel. It would really help if you read the first book. Overall, this book is just a series of misunderstandings between ED and Elliot. There wasn’t much romance, happiness, or anything of like. I was kind of disappointed.

Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins for an advance copy of this book.

The blurb got me SO interested but the opening was just hard for me to get into. Once I did, I did find the sweetness of the romance but I wish I connected with it all more.

Let me start by saying that I'm normally a HUGE fan of Mhairi McFarlane. Unfortunately, this one just missed the mark for me. I had trouble connecting with both Edie and Elliot and didn't feel the spark that makes me want to read THIS romance (as opposed to the thousands of others out there). Don't get me wrong, it's a cute read. But the spark in both the story and the characters was just missing for me.

I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

While "You Belong With Me" by Mhairi McFarlane isn’t my usual type of book, I can appreciate its charm. The story follows the journey of a woman navigating the complexities of love and friendship as she grapples with feelings for her best friend, who seems oblivious to her affection. McFarlane's witty writing and relatable characters bring humor and heart to the narrative. It’s a delightful exploration of unrequited love and self-discovery, but ultimately, it’s just not my cup of tea.

Mhairi McFarlane’s You Belong with Me is a witty, heartwarming, and sometimes bittersweet exploration of love, fame, and the trials that come with being thrust into the limelight. It centers on Edie Thompson, an ordinary woman who finds herself in an extraordinary relationship with Elliot Owen, a Hollywood A-lister who is as charming as he is elusive. While the premise might sound like a fairytale come true, McFarlane quickly reveals that life with a celebrity is far more complicated than Edie ever anticipated.

The novel opens with Edie in a whirlwind romance with Elliot, who, despite his star power and global adoration, chooses her—someone completely unprepared for the media circus that follows their relationship. The book effectively taps into the wish-fulfillment fantasy of dating a celebrity, only to pull back the curtain on the very real challenges that come with it. McFarlane cleverly balances the lightheartedness of the premise with deeper emotional beats, making it more than just a celebrity romance.

The chemistry between Edie and Elliot is undeniable, and McFarlane’s talent for writing snappy dialogue and creating relatable characters shines through. Edie is endearing, grounded, and full of self-deprecating humor, making her an easy character to root for. Her navigation of Elliot’s glitzy world is both amusing and stressful, as she finds herself trying to fit into a life that’s full of red-carpet events, paparazzi, and the constant scrutiny of the press.

However, McFarlane doesn’t just focus on the romance; she also delves into Edie’s internal journey of self-worth and trust. The novel examines the toll that fame takes on her personal identity, as well as the growing mistrust that creeps into her relationship with Elliot. With every magazine headline, leaked rumor, and prying journalist, Edie begins to wonder if she can truly trust those around her—or even Elliot himself. The tension between love and the need for self-preservation is a key theme that McFarlane expertly weaves into the story, giving it emotional depth and authenticity.

As much as You Belong with Me is a romance, it’s also a commentary on the darker sides of celebrity culture. McFarlane explores the invasion of privacy, the pressure to maintain a perfect image, and the toxic ways in which tabloids and gossip can unravel even the strongest of relationships. The ocean between Edie and Elliot, both literally and metaphorically, grows wider as they face these challenges. While Elliot’s glamorous life in Hollywood seems to pull him in one direction, Edie’s more grounded existence in the UK tugs her in another. The added pressure of gorgeous co-stars and Elliot’s jet-setting lifestyle heightens Edie’s insecurities and amplifies the distance between them.

McFarlane also skillfully includes a subplot about Edie’s past, which resurfaces as she becomes more famous. Old wounds are reopened as people from her previous life begin to meddle, fueled by jealousy and the desire to take advantage of her newfound fame. This adds an extra layer of conflict, as Edie is forced to confront not just the pressures of her current situation, but the unresolved issues of her past.

The novel keeps readers guessing whether Edie and Elliot’s love story will be a modern-day fairytale or a cautionary tale about getting too close to the sun. McFarlane’s ability to inject humor into these tense moments keeps the tone light, even as the stakes grow higher. The emotional ups and downs are beautifully balanced, making the reader feel the highs of love and the lows of doubt right alongside Edie.

Final Thoughts:
You Belong with Me is a captivating, smartly written romance that tackles the complexities of dating someone in the spotlight. Mhairi McFarlane offers more than just a Cinderella-style romance—she dives into the difficulties of maintaining trust, individuality, and love in a relationship where the world is constantly watching. With relatable characters, sharp humor, and a storyline that feels both modern and emotionally rich, this novel will appeal to fans of contemporary romance who want a mix of charm, drama, and deeper emotional reflection. Whether Edie and Elliot’s relationship can withstand the pressures of fame keeps the reader invested until the very last page.

Edie and Elliot get a HEA! McFarlane’s witty writing and distinctive voice are what make this book so good. I thought the plot was a little weak and I actually found myself rooting (just slightly!) for the newly introduced quasi love interest. He was such a great side character! But I was so happy that the author makes the readers sweat a bit before giving us the reunion we want.

Declan better get himself a whole book. You can’t just introduce a fabulous character like that and then give us only a glimpse.

McFarlane’s books are always a delight. She is an auto-read author for sure and I will always look forward to her next book.

Edie and Elliot's story is charmingly continued in Mhairi McFarlane's most recent book, which follows their brief romance as Edie gets used to life with a Hollywood star. The challenges of celebrity and media scrutiny in a relationship are explored in this book full of poignant moments and clever dialogue. Even though there are funny and emotionally impactful moments in the story, some readers might find the conflicts in the story repetitive and the overall plot less essential—especially considering how long it has been since the last book. However, McFarlane fans will enjoy the well-known characters and the happy ending to their romance.