Textbook Romance had its charming moments, but it didn’t fully hook me. Zoe’s journey of rediscovery and her dynamic with Jack had potential, especially with the refreshing focus on love after heartbreak. The banter between the two could be captivating at times, but the chemistry didn’t quite shine through for me. It’s a slow read with some lovely highlights, but overall, it struggled to keep my attention.

4.25⭐️

I was really surprised with how funny this was, and it was refreshing to see the FMC slightly older and that sense of humor we develop the older we get. I laughed a lot with this book.

Zoe is in her early 40s with 2 teenage kids and having to build her life back up after finding out her husband has been cheating on her with one of her best friends.

Jack is a younger mutual friend (he's 29 turns 30 during the story) and after meeting originally at the wedding of mutual friends, jack ends up getting a substitute teacher job at the school Zoe teaches also due to mutual friends.

Jack & Zoe get wrapped up in this almost whirlwind romance but when it starts to become more, we see Zoe debating if not just the age difference but the fact she has teenage kids, a messy separation from her husband and could Jack really be happy with her.

Thank you NetGalley & Storm Publishing

“Text Book Romance” by Kristen Bailey

“I am not crushing, leave me alone!”

So declares Jack, one of the two central characters in the above titled romcom, in response to the gentle ribbing of his housemates.
I find myself being very much like Jack, except I’m old and grey and he isn’t. Also, we differ because the author describes Jack as having abs and looking good naked. We are, however, similar because we are both crushing on the same woman, Zoe Swift. This sweet, sensuous, sad femme fatale has me absolutely smitten too. However, unlike Jack, I am his Zoe and Zoe is my Jack. Agewise…if you get me?
(That line made sense to me when I thought to write it.)
Why do I love Zoe so?Why has she entirely captured my aged and jaded heart?
Well, that is down purely to the exceptional manner in which Kristen Bailey pens such beautiful characters. Ms. B’s creations rise effortlessly from the page to come alive in the reader’s mind; each one delightfully formed, full of vibrancy, brimming with passion and exuding the same fears and nursing the same doubts that beset us, her readers. Even the minor players in her books – the ones that help to propel the plot and who provide delicious background to the sumptious main course – are similarly well-crafted. Ms. Bailey’s writing seems effortless – although I know it won’t have been, for writing is never easy – and the reader is swept along, content at simply having to turn the page and enjoy the ride.
So, to Zoe Swift, the object of my crush. She is a woman whose confidence and sense of being is shattered when she discovers her husband’s infidelity. Zoe loses a little – actually, a lot – of herself as a result of this betrayal. She feels lost and broken, uncertain of herself and fearful for her children as they face the future as a shattered family unit.
My heart went out to Zoe and I couldn’t help but fall for her. This was made incredibly easy by Ms. Bailey’s portrayal of Zoe as a strikingly beautiful and elegant woman. Zoe is passionate and warm, funny and comic, loyal and fierce, vivacious yet guarded. Sadly, Zoe does not see any of this in herself. She is vulnerable, bruised and hurting, and feels adrift as her world has been sent spinning wildly out of control. The author imbues Zoe with worries and insecurities that I suspect we all feel at some stage in our lives; Can I trust again? Why wasn’t I enough? Am I worthy of love? Do I deserve happiness? How could anyone ever find me attractive?
It will come as very little surprise to anyone who has read my earlier reviews of Ms. B’s works to learn that I utterly adored this book. (If you have not read my reviews, then go take a look…..Go on. Do it now! (My site could really – and I mean, really – do with the traffic.)) This past weekend, I found myself at Bradford Literature Festival and, while munching on a lunchtime plate of gammon, egg and chips at a pub whose chain has cutlery within in their group name, my Kindle was propped in front of me and I was completely lost within the words of “Text Book Romance”. I was oblivious to the noise and clamour of the other diners and drinkers as I enjoyed the tale of Zoe and Jack amid the ever expanding Bailey-verse in which treasured characters from earlier books make cameo appearences. In this case, Ed and Mia from “Sex Ed” make a welcome return, as does Beth from the earlier – and much-loved by this particular reviewer – Callaghan Girls series. It is always a delight when much-loved favourites unexpectedly pop-up.
Then, later that same night, I was up until almost 2am reading to the conclusion of this latest treat from the accomplished pen of Ms. Bailey.
This book is entertaining, romantic and quite lovely. Some of the “bawdyness” of her earlier Callaghan Girls novels is absent – although, thankfully, Ms. B retains her trademark, and really rather excellent, use of fruity language – but this, as explained in her notes at the end of the book, is a result of Kristen’s personal and familial travails in recent months. Quite how she managed to write such comic lines at a low-ebb is astonishing.
This is just one reason why I love her work so much and, I hope, you will too.

Textbook Romance by Kristen Bailey is a delightful and heartfelt romantic comedy that is as witty as it is emotionally satisfying. From the moment Zoe Swift meets Jack Damon at a wedding, their chemistry is undeniable, but this isn’t your typical romance. Bailey skillfully blends humor with raw emotion, creating a story that feels fresh, authentic, and profoundly moving.

Zoe is a math teacher in her 40s, navigating the aftermath of her husband’s shocking betrayal and adjusting to life as a single mother of two teenage children. Enter Jack, a charming, fun-loving, and irresistibly sweet younger man who turns up as a supply teacher at her school. The age gap between them—Zoe is in her 40s, Jack is 29—becomes a central theme, and Bailey tackles this dynamic with such nuance and sensitivity. Zoe is wary, unsure if she's ready to open herself up to a relationship so different from what she envisioned, especially after the heartbreak of her divorce. But as their connection deepens, it’s clear that Jack brings out the best in her—helping her rediscover joy in the little things, from dancing and takeout to the unexpected thrill of a well-timed chicken emoji.

What makes this book shine is Bailey’s unmatched wit. She takes a common romance trope—the age-gap romance—and turns it on its head, making you root for these two very different characters as they navigate their personal struggles and growing attraction. Their chemistry is electric, but it’s the emotional depth that truly elevates this story. Zoe’s journey of healing after her divorce, and the messy dynamics with her ex and children, adds layers of complexity to the romance. The way Bailey addresses family, co-parenting, and the impact of betrayal is both tender and real.

Jack is the epitome of a "golden retriever" hero—kind, caring, and always putting others first. His ability to support Zoe without being overbearing, while also helping her embrace the joys of life again, is beautiful. Their relationship is not without its struggles, particularly with the weight of the age difference and their diverging life goals. But watching them figure out how to make it work is a journey you won’t want to put down.

Kristen Bailey has a remarkable ability to make her characters feel like real, relatable people, with flaws and strengths that make them so easy to love. She masterfully balances humor and heartache, creating a romance that is not only fun but also meaningful. The dynamic between Zoe and Jack, along with the emotional exploration of family, forgiveness, and self-discovery, is what makes this book stand out.

In short, this book is a delightful, funny, and deeply touching read that will have you rooting for Zoe and Jack every step of the way. It’s a perfect mix of heart, humor, and complexity, and I couldn’t recommend it more to anyone who loves romantic comedies with a little more substance.

after multiple attempts at reading- I have decided to DNF. I’m hoping to return to it in the future but right now i’m unable to connect with the author’s writing style.

4 1/2 stars

I think Kristen Bailey is very under-rated. I've read several of her books and have enjoyed them all. She's able to write characters with depth and storylines that haven't been overdone. There is a feeling of originality and freshness to her books.

Textbook Romance was an age gap with a different twist. Zoe and Jack meet at a wedding on a night that is one of Zoe's worst. When she sees him again the next time, it's when he starts working for her school as a supply teacher. From there, their friendship blossoms into more. But their worlds are different. Zoe is a newly single mom who is trying to balance raising her two children in a world that has been turned upside down. Meanwhile, Jack is younger and trying to decide what his next step in life will be. But they have one important thing in common - - they fall in love.

I would have liked a little more solid ending - - although I can also appreciate the way the author chose to end it.

AUDIOBOOK REVIEW: As always with this author's books, I found the audiobook for Textbook Romance to be quite good. The narration really helped me feel pulled into the story. 4 stars

Thank you to NetGalley for early copies of both the ebook and audiobook. I voluntarily chose to read/listen to them and review them and the opinions contained within are my own.

Oh i LOVED this book!

Fabulous banter, and not just the MC's, the kids get in on it too! Without any spoilers, its got an act 1 break up, a wedding, a meet cute, and then they MC's meet again at the end of the summer when they end up teaching at the same school.

Its wholesome, fun, and has the ups and downs of navigating the post separation world of Zoe and her ex as they co parent their kids and as Zoe gets to know Jack, who has attracted more than just her attention!

Really fun read,

Thank you, NetGalley, for this ARC!

Unfortunately, this book was quite a disappointment. The plot was stagnant, and the writing was less than enjoyable, with some bad jokes and lines. The characters and their relationships felt underdeveloped, not just the main couple but also the side characters. In terms of plot, it felt like there was no climax or tension. A lot of the book's tension was built on what a certain someone's reaction would be; however, we never get to read their response, and it never happens. It gets abandoned, and instead, we get a 3rd act breakup and a rushed ending.

Bailey just has a great way of writing romance that’s easy and fun! The characters felt a little older than the typical romance which was refreshing! There’s stream but also a really genuine storyline that melts your heart.

The cover immediately caught my eye, and thankfully, the story lived up to it! This romcom is both hilarious and touching, with characters that feel genuine and lovable. Zoe’s journey is so relatable, and after all she’s endured, you just want her to find happiness. Jack is everything she deserves—thoughtful, devoted to his family, and wholeheartedly captivated by her. Their witty back-and-forth and slow-burn connection kept me fully engaged. It felt right that Zoe didn’t instantly fall for him, given her recent upheaval, but the warmth and spark between them are undeniable. Eventually, they’re both head over heels, and it’s so satisfying to see. I especially loved that the ending wasn’t a typical HEA but felt honest and true to their story. I’m hoping for more updates on these two in the future, just like we had for Mia and Ed from *Sex Ed* in this book. I’d be thrilled to see where their story goes next!

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the digital copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.

I enjoyed this book; it was cute and witty and the relationship between Zoe and Jack was endearing. I appreciated how the story evolved naturally even though it wasn't a typical love story. Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC!

We follow Zoe Swift who is at a wedding of her two teacher work colleagues. Her husband can't make it, but she finds herself having a good time and meets a younger man named Jack Damon. But Zoe gets terrible news that throws her and causes her whole world and the world of her two kids to be turned upside down. Several months later when school starts, she is shocked to meet the new sub teacher, Jack.

Zoe and Jack have great chemistry. I can see why Zoe is heart broken about her life, but still finds herself becoming increasingly attracted to Jack. And Jack, his story is great. I got it, and liked him and got his whole backstory and loved his protectiveness of Zoe. And there are some very real reasons why the two of them don't want to get together, but can't resist. The love scenes were great!

Y'all, this was just such a wonderful story. Zoe and Jack meet at a wedding - They have some delightful witty banter, and then Zoe's life falls apart. Jack is there to help, but she has to focus her energy on her family. Their connection is lost, and then, AND THEN, Jack is a new teacher at Zoe's school. Zoe is now navigating a divorce and the feelings of her two teenage kiddos, but also, that connection with Jack is still strong. The way this relationship is just so darn delightful. I loved the humor that this story was written with, but it also had a lot of real feels related to romance, self-doubt, and family. This was a gem of a read, and thanks to NetGalley for the look at this July 2024 release!

Zoe is attending the wedding of friends and meets Jack who she immediately clicks with. While talking she gets the news that her husband has cheated on her and leaves in a hurry. Months on she sees Jack again as a substitute teacher at her school. Something a bit different with an age gap and older female character but I would have classed this more as a light comedy/personal growth story rather than a romance. If you look at it that way it reads much better. The characters are likeable and if you have read other books by Kristen Bailey you get to see some of the characters again. I loved the age gap and the way they interacted but the romance felt forced rather than swoony. I recommend this story to those who like to see older women getting their happily ever after and overcoming divorce. Also a good one for teachers!

I voluntarily read an arc of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts are mine.

A very enjoyable and cute romance, with likeable characters! i loved the character development and how someone can gain their faith and trust in others again after a betrayal.

3.5-Stars

Textbook Romance is a heartfelt and humorous journey about second chances and finding love in unexpected places. Zoe Swift, a single mom and math teacher, isn’t looking for romance after her husband’s betrayal. But when she meets the charming and younger Jack Damon, sparks fly, and their undeniable chemistry leaves Zoe questioning whether she’s ready to give love another shot.

Kristen Bailey does a great job balancing humor with the more serious aspects of healing and co-parenting. Zoe’s struggles feel real, and her witty inner monologue keeps things light. Jack is sweet and supportive, but the age gap and their personal baggage add layers of complexity to their relationship.

While the story is filled with fun, the pacing can feel slow at times, and some conflicts resolve a bit too easily. Overall, though, Textbook Romance delivers a feel-good read about life, love, and rediscovering joy, perfect for fans of rom-coms with a little heartache and a lot of laughs.

A romance between two teachers, this is a sweet story, sans the level of steam that every romance book tends to have these days. The teachers in question, one with two teen kids and just coming out of a divorce, and the other just finding his feet, hit it off and then go on to contend with questions and feelings they never thought they would be contending with. I enjoyed this very much!

Thank you to Netgalley, Kristen Bailey and Storm Publishing for an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.

A very nice and engaging story with age gap trope (she is older than him), a lot of british humour and loveable characters.

The dynamics between Zoe and Jack were fun to read. Their silly flirting and compassionate nature brought the best out of them. I loved how nothing was too dramatic and the desicions the characters took were practical and sensible.

This does not get 5 stars however because of the writing style. Maybe since this was an ARC I found quite a few grammatical mistakes, but I hope this is rectified in the published version.

Otherwise, it is a great book to read.

While I found this book slower than I’d hoped, I still enjoyed my time reading it.

The plot is intriguing, but the characters felt somewhat one-dimensional. The chemistry between Jack and Zoe was lacking, and the early flirtation came off as forced, especially with the "insta-love" dynamic at play. While that initially hindered their connection, it became less noticeable as the story progressed. Surprisingly, the third-act breakup, which I usually dislike, made sense for these characters and their journey.

I was initially drawn to this book by its gorgeous cover art, and fortunately, it didn’t disappoint. It’s funny, emotional, and filled with everything I love in a good romcom. Zoe is relatable, having gone through so much that you can’t help but root for her. Jack, on the other hand, is sweet, caring, and an amazing brother and uncle. He genuinely wants to do right by Zoe, who has swept him off his feet. Their banter and flirtation build slowly, which feels right given Zoe’s recent upheaval. It wouldn’t have been realistic for her to fall into his arms immediately, but the heat and affection between them eventually become palpable, and soon they’re head over heels for each other.

I especially loved that the ending wasn’t the typical "happily ever after" most authors would go for. It felt real and authentic to their situation.

Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the ARC.

Rating: 3.5 stars

I found this book to be slower than I would have liked, but I did enjoy my time reading.

While I found the plot of this book so intriguing, I found the characters to be fairly one-note. There was little to no chemistry between Jack and Zoe, and the flirting felt a bit forced, especially early on. There was quite a bit of insta-love going on, which I think worked against them initially, but didn’t affect much as the book progressed. I am normally very against a 3rd act breakup, but this is probably one of the few situations where it really made sense for the characters.