This book is like a warm cup of tea on a rainy day—comforting, sweet, and impossible to put down! Bryony Page is a total gem of a character, and her journey had me giggling one moment and tearing up the next. The story kicks off at a writer’s conference, where Bryony is desperately pitching a manuscript inspired by her grandmother and the immigrant school she’s trying to save. The stakes are high, emotions are raw, and then in waltzes Jack Sterling with *other plans* for her writing career. Cue the drama, the charm, and the laughs!

Tropes and themes I enjoyed:
* Forced Proximity
*Agent x Author
*Slow Burn
*Workplace Romance


The writing is where this book really shines. Slipping into Bryony’s perspective feels like diving into an author’s dreamworld, full of emotion and vivid detail. The way she describes her stories makes you wish you could grab them off the shelf. It’s meta in the best way—like the author’s love for books and storytelling shines off the page.

The side characters are just as delightful. Bryony’s hilariously loyal sister Gloria, the quirky students at the school, and the utterly narcissistic Amelia Benedict are scene stealers in their own right. And let’s not forget Jack. He’s complicated and infuriating, yet undeniably charming, making every interaction with Bryony electric.

I won’t spoil the ending but let me just say—it’s perfection. Melissa said The Perfect Rom-Com and she meant it. The balance of humor, heart, and a little bit of heartbreak made this a romcom that truly stands out. If you’re looking for something that’s equal parts inspiring, hilarious, and downright adorable, this book is calling your name!

The story seems more focused on the mechanisms of publishing houses than on the romance between the two characters, which then develops little and badly, only towards the end of the book. Moreover, there would need to be better editing because it is still unclear what color Jack's eyes are in addition to the fact that, perhaps because of my ebook, the paragraphs and messages on the phone, get completely mixed up.

La storia sembra piú incentrata sui meccanismi delle case editrici che sul romance tra i due personaggi, che poi si sviluppa poco e male, solo verso la fine del libro. oltretutto ci sarebbe bisogno di un migliore editing perché ancora non é chiaro di che colore siano gli occhi di Jack oltre al fatto che, forse per colpa del mio ebook, i paragrafi e i messaggi sul cellulare, si confondono completamente.

I received the digital advanced review copy from the publisher in exchange for a honest review.

I’m going to say it.
The Perfect Rom-Com is quite literally the perfect rom-com. The characters were likable. The story was heartfelt and hopeful and funny. I am so happy I read this book. I can’t wait to recommend it to friends and read all of Melissa Ferguson’s books!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own

This was a story unlike anything I have ever read before. I found the concept to be very exciting and found the ghostwriting aspect to be interesting to read. I like Bryony’s character and I’m glad that things worked out for her in all aspects of her life. Her and Jack really fit each other and it was great reading their story.

Thank you NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for the e-ARC.

Thank you to Thomas Nelson Fiction and Netgalley for the arc! I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. As a book lover I was intrigued by the premise of the book and was so glad I got a chance to read the ARC. I love the strength and determination of our main character Bryony. The chemistry and the banter was so fun. Of course the supporting cast including Bryony's loyal students added to my love for the story.

The Perfect Rom-Com is a really cute read with a fun premise and enjoyable banter.

While this story is labeled a romance, I wouldn't really consider the romance to be the star of the show. This story is more about Bryony's journey and self-discovery. If I had to make one complaint, it would be that I would have liked to see more development of the relationship between Bryony and Jack. I loved the way they met and couldn't wait to see things turn around for them. Unfortunately, we didn't get to experience that part, as the story jumped two years into the future after their initial meet.

All in all, a quick read that will be a hit for some and a miss for others.

3,5 ★
first of all, thank you to Thomas Nelson Fiction for the Advanced Reader Copy of this book, which I was able to read through netgally!

this was a completely different reading experience than I had expected, perhaps because I went in expecting a romance in the style of the romances I generally read, yet this story took a completely different turn. while the beginning definitely leaned towards the 'trust the process' curve, I quickly found I was hooked--I couldn't stop reading, and this was a general theme throughout the story!

I was constantly on the edge of my seat, waiting for the inevitable ball to drop because I could tell there were secrets in the air! I loved how lowkey the romance aspect of this story was, although as I said I had expected it to be more in the foreground of the story, but Jack really woo'ed me with his subtle touches, knowing glances and perfect knowledge of Byrony. after all, true love is in the little things.

I do think in some ways Byron annoyed me--as somebody who has learned quite a lot about publishing and researched publishing my own work, the fact she didn't know how to categorise her novel, couldn't quite pitch it, had it be way too lengthy for its quasi-genre, only to then confidently waltz into a literary conference... however, the backstory made it make more sense, and this was another aspect of the story that I really enjoyed. in this time of hate and opposition, we need stories like this that remind us about unity and love in the world.

Amelia made me feel as much rage as Byrony felt and I wish we could've seen more of the effect the ending had on her, but I did love the way that the story wrapped up and its overall message!

Bryony Page is an inspiring author on a mission to publish her literary-magical realism-historical fiction-nonfiction memoir with a dash of mystery. Bryony tries to get Jack Sterling to be her agent in getting her first book published so she can bring awareness to and save The Bridge, a school to help immigrants learn English and pass their GEDs. Instead of picking up her book, however, he convinces her to write as a ghostwriter for his most successful celebrity author. Fast-forward a couple of years, and Bryony and Jack are not only a great literary team but have also become the best of friends... still without publishing Bryony's own book.

It was a little slow for me in the beginning but because of Bryony and Jack's chemistry, as soon as the story picked up I couldn't put it down. Their friendship was everything.

📚 Allies to Friends to.... more
📚 He falls first
📚 Workplace
📚 Forced Proximity
📚 Book about Books

Melissa Ferguson! This. Is. Adorable!

Bryony is a writer on pursuit to be published. Jack is the best agent there is. They meet at a conference and she has 15 minutes to convince him to publish her book.

In a nutshell he tells her that her book is trash and crushes her dreams but somehow convinces her to be a ghostwriter for one of his famous clients.

A friendship forms…maybe something more and the rest is history!

This one is precious! Five stars and my new favorite by this author.

Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this as an ARC.

The Perfect Rom-Com by Melissa Ferguson is an easy, breezy read for anyone who enjoys light-hearted romances mixed with a bit of literary intrigue. The plot is a little predictable, but that's part of the charm. We follow Bryony Page, a hopeful author who inadvertently becomes a ghostwriter for a famous rom-com author, all while trying to get her own manuscript noticed. The romance takes its sweet time to unfold, and the dynamics between Bryony and Jack, the literary agent, are fun to watch evolve.

While the book has its share of quirky characters and humor, it doesn't really push boundaries. It sticks to what works in the rom-com genre, and for the most part, it delivers just that. The storyline involving Bryony's ghostwriting career is an interesting take, though it’s not as deep as it could have been. The romantic development between Bryony and Jack is pleasant, but the chemistry doesn't exactly sizzle off the page.

Overall, it's a light and enjoyable read, but it didn't leave a lasting impact on me. It’s a nice escape, but not one that lingers too long after finishing. Perfect for those looking for a quick, feel-good read, but not one to expect something groundbreaking

Heavy on the com, light on the rom - and it ended up being the perfect rom-com ratio!!

I loved the characters and enjoyed the story from cover to cover.

Thanks to #NetGalley and the publisher for access to this book in exchange for an honest review.

🥂🥂🥂🥂 THE PERFECT ROM-COM

Thank you so much to @thomasnelson and @netgalley for this delightful, witty, heartfelt, funny, sweet, romantic ARC by the eternally talented Melissa Ferguson who is an instant-read author of mine!

THE PERFECT ROM-COM is light and fun yet heartfelt and aged, classic and sweet yet witty…no doubt a glass of champagne!

I found the ending to be a little too far-fetched and improbable but isn’t it fun to imagine and hope for a world with such happy, easy, dramatic, grand-gesture endings?!

4.5 sras rounded up.
8
My favorite Melissa Ferguson book to date!

Bryony Page just wants to publish her book and save the community organization that she teaches ESL at and loves. But when literar agent Jack Sterling offers her the opportunity to be the ghostwriter for a popular novelist, her whole world turns upside down.

This book was so cute!! Bryony was relatable and I cheered for her all the way through the book. Her love for her ESL students and her community were so heartwarming.

I also loved Jack and all of the ways that he had her best interests in mind.

The supporting characters were also so enjoyable, from Bryony's students to her sister, to Penny, who was my favorite of all.

This book is for the book lovers - giving insight into publishing and writing and being entirely heartwarming.

The great big gesture at the end of the book just made me grin and mentally kick my feet with happiness.

I loved it and highly recommend if you are looking for a sweet, no spice romance.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Aspiring author Bryon Page attends a writer’s conference in hopes of selling her novel about her grandmother’s underfunded ESL school. Instead she agrees to ghostwrite novels for a vain, demanding novelist in exchange for support marketing her novel. Although a romance, the story is more about Bryony’s journey for self confidence, sense of self and personal growth. It was an enjoyable and heartwarming read.

Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the chance to read this in exchange for an honest review.

"The Perfect Rom-Com" by Melissa Ferguson delivers on its promise of a lighthearted, humorous read with a charming premise. The story follows Bryony Page, an ESL teacher turned ghostwriter, as she navigates the chaotic world of rom-com novels and an unexpected romance with literary agent Jack Sterling.

What Worked:

The book has a breezy, fun tone that makes it an easy and enjoyable read. Ferguson's wit shines through in the dialogue and situations Bryony finds herself in.
The concept of a ghostwriter stepping into the spotlight is intriguing and adds an interesting twist to the traditional rom-com setup.
Jack Sterling is a likable love interest, and the chemistry between him and Bryony feels genuine.
What Could Have Been Better:

While the premise is unique, the plot unfolds predictably, with few surprises along the way. Readers familiar with the genre might find it lacking in tension or unexpected twists.
Some of the supporting characters feel underdeveloped, and their subplots don't add much depth to the main narrative.
The pacing at times felt uneven, with the middle section dragging before the story picks up again towards the end.
Overall, "The Perfect Rom-Com" is a pleasant read for those looking for a light, feel-good romance. However, it may not leave a lasting impression on readers seeking a more profound or layered story. It’s a solid choice for a weekend read but might not stand out in a crowded genre.

4/5 stars. This book took a while to get into but the last 40% was really good. The dialogue was funny, the ending was so satisfying and the romance is oddly-paced but still really cute. A sweet read

Melissa Ferguson has done it again! The Perfect Rom-Com is such a fun, feel-good read that I couldn’t help but devour it. This is the third book I’ve read by Ferguson, and let me tell you—she knows how to write charming, relatable characters and bring a fresh perspective to the world of contemporary romance.

This time, we meet Bryony Page (yes, her surname is apt), who’s desperate to get her semi-biographical book published. But it’s not just about chasing a dream; she’s determined to help fund her grandmother’s community centre for refugees. Unfortunately, literary agent extraordinaire Jack Sterling isn’t impressed with her manuscript. Instead of giving up, Bryony takes a leap and accepts Jack’s offer to ghostwrite a romance novel for Amelia Benedict, a rising star with more celebrity sparkle than actual substance.

Right from the start, I was rooting for Bryony. How many of us have had that moment where we dig deep, find a sliver of self-belief, and use it to turn things around? That’s exactly what Bryony does, and it’s impossible not to cheer her on. Sure, I wasn't convinced her genre-soup draft was ready for the world, but I was rooting for her.

Now, let’s talk about Jack. I liked him straightaway. My first impression was that he was smart, straightforward (more on that later) and funny. As their working relationship deepened, it was lovely to see his admiration for Bryony grow into something much more. Their dynamic felt natural and earned, which made their romance all the sweeter.

The supporting cast also shines—or, in Amelia’s case, shines in a very maddening way. Amelia is vapid and villainous, and she made me think a lot about what we actually expect from writers these days. It’s not just about the writing anymore; we’re drawn to the celebrity, the glossy image, and the “brand.” The contrast between Amelia’s superficial appeal and Bryony’s earnestness couldn’t have been clearer, and it gave the story some great depth.

Now, for the third act drama. Without giving too much away, I found myself a little blindsided by Jack’s behaviour. It felt off for someone so level-headed, and while everything gets resolved in the end, the reason behind it didn’t entirely click for me. Also, Bryony’s inability to see what her first book needed felt a little odd, given her experience and the advice she gets from others. It didn’t ruin the story for me, but it left me wishing that part had been a bit stronger.

Overall, The Perfect Rom-Com is pretty close to what the title promises—fun, light, and full of heart. It’s low-spice, so perfect for readers who like their romance sweet and clean. It’s also a quick read, perfect for a weekend escape. Melissa Ferguson’s writing is so enjoyable, and I'm looking forward to seeing what she comes up with next.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley, and all opinions expressed in this review are my own.

"The Perfect Romcom" by Malissa Ferguson is a delightful read that deserves four stars. The storyline is charmingly crafted, following two lovable protagonists as they navigate the complexities of love and friendship. The characters are well-developed, and their chemistry leaps off the pages, drawing readers into their romantic escapades.

Ferguson's writing style is light-hearted and witty, capturing the essence of a classic romantic comedy with a modern twist. The pacing is just right, keeping readers engaged without feeling rushed. The humor is cleverly woven into the narrative, providing laugh-out-loud moments that balance the more emotional scenes beautifully.

While the plot is somewhat predictable, it doesn’t detract from the enjoyment, as Ferguson has a knack for infusing warmth and authenticity into even the most clichéd scenarios. The settings are vividly described, adding an extra layer of immersion into the romantic escapades of the protagonists.

Overall, "The Perfect Romcom" is a joyous read that any fan of the genre will appreciate. It may not break new ground, but its heart and humor make it a worthwhile pick for those seeking a feel-good love story to escape into.

Bryony Page wants nothing more than to publish her novel. However, after meeting literary agent, Jack Sterling, at a writing conference, Bryony has now found herself in a never ending loop of ghostwriting rom-com's for Amelia Benedict. With her grandmother’s ESL teaching non-profit in jeopardy though, it’s more important now than it ever was for Bryony to finally strike out on her own.

First off, this book was really daggum funny. I guess one of the perks of the main character of a book being a writer is that said character is bound to have a very vivid vocabulary. I mean, it's not every day that you hear someone described as "the most eremitic, vainglorious and least desirable agent of all time." Additionally, the animosity that bounces between Bryony and Amelia is absolutely hilarious, and it had me laughing out loud at several points.

The charm of this book isn't only in its humor. It's in its characters too. Bryony's sister, Gloria, is the perfect over-the-top hype-woman (which also lends to some of the novel's hilarity). Bryony's many ESL students that appear throughout the book lend to the heart-string-pulling element of the book and really help to showcase Bryony's passion for The Bridge. Of all of the characters in this book, though, I had my biggest issues with Jack. Jack felt somewhat one-dimensional. It just felt like his characterization didn't go much further than being a stellar literary agent and absolutely in love with Bryony. That being said, Jack was a very sweet character and I found myself saying, "AWWWWWWW," more than once while reading this book.

Overall, The Perfect Rom-Com was such a fun and cute little read that’s releasing just in time for Valentine’s Day!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Eeeeeeeh! I wanted to squeal like a schoolgirl on a plane reading this one. It is so cute! And although there is a great romance here, this is also more about identity, personal growth, and living out your purpose. The funny conversations with characters learning English peppered throughout we're just the sprinkles on top of a perfectly iced cupcake. This book was a delight.

Content Note: Parental death (past)

Thanks to Thomas Nelson for the gifted title. All opinions are my own.