4.5 stars

Thank you to HarperCollins and NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

What a cute sapphic, YA romcom!!! It was so funny and bright. I loved getting Rochelle’s POV, and also all of the characters being hilarious and giving their honest opinions with one another. I love seeing healthy friendships displayed in books!!

After Rochelle begins working at the movie theater and makes a truce with Amira, I loved the setting so much. I always thought it was so cool when friends/acquaintances said they worked at the movies and I can’t remember another book I’ve read where the main characters works at one. So good.

Rochelle has a great character development throughout the book. She slowly begins to realize things, both on her own and with the help of her friends. Rochelle realizing her feelings about Amira was so cute and sweet to watch unfold.

This book was also very queer-affirming, which I loved!

The “mystery” aspect of the plot could’ve been fleshed out more, but it honestly didn’t bother me much due to how much I loved the characters.

It comes out in a few weeks (4/22/25), don’t miss it!!!

CW: grief, death of parent

If We Were a Movie by Zakiya N. Jamal is a sweet ya romance novel that follows our main character Rochelle, who is so focused on school and getting into her dream college that she completely disregards anything else. However, she does not have a job on her college resume yet. So when she is offered a job at a local historic black-owned theater she is in no place to refuse.
The characters in this book were plentiful, and some were fleshed out better than others. I do attribute some of this to Rochelle being an unreliable narrator. We see the world as Rochelle sees it, so if she doesn't take the time to get to know the character we as readers don't either.
I found the romance between Rochelle and Amira really cute and sweet, but I do think some of the conflict between them is glossed over. I suppose nothing like a mutual goal to bring even rivals closer together, which does bring up the minor mystery plot that was going on in the background the whole time. While the mystery was a little lackluster in its conclusion. It is probably for the best otherwise it might've taken focus from the romance aspect of this romance book.

Thank you NetGalley and HarperCollins for providing me with an advanced reader copy to read and review.

This was just so adorable. I absolutely loved the movie theatre setting and the friendship between all the workers. It really played into the whole found family trope and It was so fun seeing their shenanigans. The relationship between Amira and Rochelle was so heartwarming. Childhood frenemies to lovers is one of my favourite tropes and i loved the friendship their moms had. Overall i think it was a really sweet and fun read.

If we were a move is a cute easy YA romcom. The characters were enjoyable, lovable and so darn adorable. Another thing I enjoyed about this book is that it takes place in a black historical movie theater. I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to read something light and easy.

Books like these are why I love YA!

I started this book not sure what to expect and found a book that was hard to put down and something I looked forward to reading every free chance I got. Rochelle, our MC, is determined to go to Wharton and will do whatever she has to do to make that goal a reality. She's stubborn, a bit close-minded and prefers to stick to herself and her small group of friends and isn't one to take chances in life. She desperately needs a job for the summer--to have something on her college application, of course--and a job at a local movie theater quite literally falls into her lap. She takes it, expecting it to be a simple job that won't change much in her life...and ends up getting so much more than she bargained for.

First off, I have to say that I loved that the story took place in New York, and Hempstead at that! I feel like I haven't read a book in a very long time that took place in New York and it wasn't Manhattan. I also really liked that the author took the time to describe the neighborhood and I found myself smiling at the little quirks the author would point out about the area. I also really liked the movie theater and I found myself googling to see if it was a real place to visit.

I really enjoyed Rochelle, her friends (both her best friends and the friends she makes at her job) and especially Amira, the love interest. I enjoyed how they all had distinct personalities and I could always imagine them in my mind. Rochelle had little moments that annoyed me a little, mostly how judgmental she could be, but I also can't fault her for it because it was a part of her growth and it's something she is aware of and calls herself out on. I also really loved the romance and thought it was so cute!

Overall, I really had a great time reading this book and I can't wait to read what's next from this author.

A sweet, fun book about firsts in the life of a teenager. Rochelle Coleman is looking for a summer job before her HS senior year. She has never been employed. She’s never had a girlfriend. Other than her two besties, Kerry and Taylor, who dragged her into their circle, she has no other friends. Rochelle guards her time and space. She wants to follow her brilliant mother’s footsteps to Penn University. Valedictorian or Go Home. But Rochelle soon finds out life is messy and can’t be controlled.

Firstly, I liked the backdrop of an old fashioned neighborhood movie theatre, especially one steeped in Black history. I grew up in Chicago in the 1960’s and 1970’s which had those small theatres nestled in Black and Latine areas catering to the residents because of segregation and later just the sense of community. The Horizon Theatre setting felt spot on. I got a kick out of these modern day teens appreciating the older classics like Shaft and Space Jam.

The diverse crew are a good mix of quirkiness and high energy. As the story moves along, Rochelle opens up to becoming friends with them. Learning the responsibilities of a job gives her a nice confidence in practical matters. Finally, her first crush on her rival surprises then thrills her. Very cute connection and I loved Amira Rodriguez. The author does a great job at expanding Rochelle’s world.

My favorite parts of the book are the interactions between Rochelle and her mother. There’s a lot of love there and a me and you against the world closeness that comes from the bond of a single mom and her only child. But Rochelle’s heartfelt words to her mother, breaking down her feelings about expectations, about first love, and the challenges of being 17 really touched my heart.

What a debut! Give me queer black girl magic any day of the week and I'm sold! While that initially grabbed my attention, it very much reads like a debut (meaning there's lot of room for growth!). The prose is a little rudimentary, the exposition weighs heavily on tell over show, and though our FMC acts like the mature one in her group, her immaturity shines on every page. Hoping to see more from this author as their writing journey continues.

I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley and am voluntarily posting a review. All opinions are my own.
I’ve followed Zakiya N. Jamal on social media for a while, and I’ve been vaguely aware of her work on the publishing side of things. So, I was super-hyped to hear that she was finally becoming a published author, and of a Black sapphic romance at that. And the title, If We Were a Movie, just drew me in further (Hannah Montana vibes!), not to mention the comp titles (2000s DCOM!). As for the book itself, it’s absolutely delightful!
Rochelle is a sympathetic protagonist, if a little flawed. She’s a little judgmental, but she’s also very ambitious and incredibly loyal to those close to her. And while this judgmental nature does rear its head, I like that it leads to moments of growth and learning, particularly as she gets to know Amira more. It’s great to see someone who, while not unhappy with their quality of life, is still able to grow through forming connections with those around her.
The romance with Amira is also pretty cute. While “enemies to lovers” is a bit of an overstatement, that’s the case for many contemporary-set romance plotlines. Either way, I liked how the genuine animosity evolved into understanding, amiability, and even more through them getting to know each other. They have some really solid moments together, and I like how Amira plays a role in Rochelle’s growth.
I also loved the emphasis on friendship and community, with Rochelle already having a few good friends, and the staff of Horizon Cinemas becoming very close through working together. This is also juxtaposed beautifully with nods to the history of Black cinema throughout their summer-long effort to save the cinema, plus the creation of a queer-affirming and inclusive environment.
The sabotage plot was a tad ridiculous, especially since there’s a lot to chew on already, plus it felt rather predictable in the end. However, it does ultimately work well to provide a climax to the theater plotline, and it’s relatively minor in the grand scheme of things.
This was a cute book, and I’d recommend it to readers in search of a lighthearted YA Black sapphic romance.

Thank you Zakiya N. Jamal and HarperCollins Children's Books for the ARC of If We Were a Movie!

This fast-paced YA romance with a mystery side plot follows sapphic enemies/academic rivals as they work at a local cinema together over the summer. Amira's charisma and dedication to her job slowly start winning over the college admissions-obsessed Rochelle.

This book is a lot of fun and super easy to tear through. The characters were diverse and engaging, and the mystery plot gave me another reason to keep turning the page.

I would have loved a teensy bit more romantic development in the middle, and the mystery plot did feel somewhat half-baked, but it was still a delightfully fun time. Seeing all of the friendships and romantic developments gave me strong Heartstopper vibes.

I'd highly recommend you check this out if you love YA romances! Thank you again for the ARC. If We Were a Movie by Zakiya N. Jamal releases on April 22!

"Booksmart meets Phantom of the Megaplex in Zakiya N. Jamal's debut enthralling enemies-to-lovers queer romance, set against the backdrop of a historic Black-owned movie theater, the quirky employees who work there, and the suburbs of Long Island. Perfect for fans of Leah Johnson and Today Tonight Tomorrow.

Lights. Camera. Love?

Rochelle "the Shell" Coleman is laser focused on only three things: becoming valedictorian, getting into Wharton, and, of course, taking down her annoyingly charismatic nemesis and only academic competition, Amira Rodriguez. However, despite her stellar grades, Rochelle's college application is missing that extra special something: a job.

When Rochelle gets an opportunity to work at Horizon Cinemas, the beloved Black-owned movie theater, she begrudgingly jumps at the chance to boost her chances at getting into her dream school. There's only one problem: Amira works there…and is also her boss.

Rochelle feels that working with Amira is its own kind of horror movie, but as the two begin working closely together, Rochelle starts to see Amira in a new light, one that may have her beginning to actually...like her?

But Horizon's in trouble, and when mysterious things begin happening that make Horizon's chances of staying open slimmer, it's up to the employees to solve the mystery before it's too late, but will love also find its way into the spotlight?"

Has a very Empire Records vibe. I like that!

This was just ok to me. I liked that it was easy to get through. I don't like that they stopped being rivals less than a third of the way through the book. I wish it took longer for the main character to start liking her.

Before I get into my review of “If We Were a Movie”, I’d like to thank NetGalley and HarperCollins for the early eARC!

I absolutely *loved* this book and everything it had to offer! All of the characters, even the background characters, made me laugh and smile throughout the whole book.

I loved the use of the friends to (slight) enemies (academic rivals) to lovers trope! This book is great if you’re looking for a cute, cozy YA pick-me-up book!

My final takeaway from this book; when the movie theater you work at is failing, simply fall in love with your academic rival!

I came for the sapphic romance and it did not let me down! From the moment the main character, Rochelle, realizes she has to work with her academic rival, Amira, whom she has actively avoided but also thought of constantly I knew the story was going to be good.

Watching Rochelle come to terms with her feelings and dissect the thin line between “love and hate” had me kicking my feet and giggling the whole time. I love when opposites attract so when the very studious and borderline loner falls for the charismatic and bubbly girl it is simply *chefs kiss*.

With the back drop of a historic black owned movie theater and a cast of diverse characters, this story was so cozy and nostalgic. It brought back memories of friends, school crushes and movie dates. I found myself wishing I had a story like this to read when I was younger.

I can’t wait for more from this author. I especially hope there is a spin off/ sequel for the goth and golden retriever. This was 5/5 ⭐️ for me!

Genre 📚: YA Contemporary, Queer Lit, Romance
Tropes 💁‍♀️: Workplace romance, Former friends to lovers, Opposites attract
Rep ✔️: Black and queer main characters, Korean American side characters, nonbinary and aroace side characters
CW ⚠️: Off-page death of a parent
Rating ⭐️: 3.5/5

The actual struggle to read this title and not sing the Hannah Montana song. If We Were a Movie (youuuu’d be the right guy — okay, sorry) follows FMC Rochelle, who is laser-focused on getting into her dream college. She’s got the grades, but she needs a job to really stand out, so she starts working at the local black-owned movie theater. Unfortunately for her, her childhood-friend-turned-enemy Amira works there too. As the assistant manager, no less.

Rochelle could definitely be an unlikable heroine for some people — she’s judgemental and a little insensitive — but I actually found her interesting to read about. She’s wired to think more logically than emotionally, without realizing she’s hurting those around her. The more she and Amira bond, though, she slowly learns how to recognize her emotions and act on them. Leading to a comforting, sugary sweet romance.

The book was a very slow build, but things picked up when Rochelle came out of her shell, both with Amira and with her fun group of co-workers. I’d call this more slice-of-life, since there’s not much happening plot-wise, and as such, it was an enjoyable read. I’d love to see what this author does next.

thank you for the epub from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

It was a cute little romance. I think it definitely leans heavier on the romance than mystery. (Not that I'm complaining.) I loved that the main character is a queer black girl. The romance is sweet. But the mystery is kind of meh and obvious. It has a third act breakup which is frustrating.

This was such a cute book. Such an easy and quick read. I loved the setting of being in a movie theater and it was a great change of pace then the last few books I’ve read.
I really liked all of the characters, they all were lovable in their own ways.
Zakiya did an awesome job on her debut novel.

Such an adorable read! I've been craving a cheesy teen romcom (let's be honest, when am I not?), and this absolutely delivered. I do find it funny how long it took Rochelle to watch a movie at the theater she literally works at. I will be recommending this to any teens looking for a lighthearted queer romance.

Thank you HarperTeen and Netgalley for providing me with an eARC in exchange for my honest review!

My first love is books, my second love is movies.
So getting to read a WLW book mostly set in a movie theater, was such a fun experience! The characters were all likeable, with their own personalities. I loved that we also got a sneak peek into their lives as well. This made the side characters less flat and like they were just put into the story for the main characters to interact with.

Rochelle, the main character, had to grow on me at first. The reason why Rochelle and Amira became rivals bothered me a bit. However, this might very well just be a personal opinion. So keep that in mind. As the story progressed I started to like Rochelle more. Like every teen (and human really), she made mistakes or judged to early. Instead of sweeping it under the rug, she acknowledged that she was wrong and learned from it. This made her so much more realistic. I really appreciated how Jamal weaved that into the story. Her interactions with Amira were so cute! I loved the little snarky comments back and forth.

I do wish I read more about the community of Horizon. The regulars who order the same things, who love to have a chat. Or the movie lovers who go to their local cinema all dressed up. I think that this would've made the theater feel even more personal. Rochelle does mention that her friend is a regular there, but I would've liked to read more about the background characters, the NPCs. Like the older lady that appears in the book at some point.

Lastly, there is a side plot in the story that was a bit too predictable for me. It didn't bother me, as I knew it wasn't a mystery book. However, it would've been more fun if the resolution was a bit more of a surprise.

Besides some little notes, I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book! And I'm so happy with the Black Sapphic representation. I recommend this book to everyone who loves a lighthearted rivals-to-lovers romance novel!

I grew up at the movie theater. Every summer vacation weekend earning loyalty points and saving them up for free tickets. Having my row and my seat. And maybe sneaking into a second showing.

IF WE WERE A MOVIE captured that nostalgia through Rochelle's experience working at a historic movie theater for the summer. And it's the very important last summer vacation of high school.

Theres so much heart on every page. I felt all the small moments of Rochelle being scared or anxious of a social situation and powering through. The friend group was so wholesome even when teasing eachother. Drama was pretty low, but the journey is focused more on Rochelle opening herself to enjoying her high school life.

Overall, highly recommend IF WE WERE A MOVIE for Young Adult readers that enjoy rivals to lovers romance as well as wprkplace forced proximity tension. It's a wholesome read with a lot of heart.

Thank you Netgalley and HarperCollins Children's Books | HarperCollins for the advance digital copy to read and review

This book was decent. Turned out to have some tropes I do not love but all in all was a fun and cute romance.