This book should have been titled “A Day in the Life of EVERY MIDDLE-AGED MOTHER EVER!” It resonates with so many important women in my life. From venting sessions on Zoom with my cousin, a 44-year-old perimenopausal mother of two boys (ages 11 and 15), to text messages from my best friend, who is navigating the challenges of being a single mother working full-time, managing the delightful attitude of her “12 going on 20” son, and – being the habitual people-pleaser that she is – just doesn’t know how to say no and somehow always ends up volunteered for everything under the sun. I plan to buy this book for both of them as a “just because” gift.

While the younger crowd may enjoy a glimpse of what lies ahead, this book is definitely written as a warrior cry for women in their mid-forties and older – women whose bodies seem to have a mind of their own, whose kids are making them buy hair dye in bulk to hide the gray, and who just need a quick reminder that they are not alone in the insanity of their everyday lives.

With barely a minute to breathe – and that’s being generous – Lisa Darling is doing her best to handle it all, especially when her HRT kicks in! Planning PTA events? Check. Killing it at work? Check. Playing chauffeur, math tutor, seamstress, chef, and housekeeper to her two boys while maintaining a somewhat civil relationship with her ex-husband? Check and a high five. There seems to be nothing Lisa can’t do these days – except keep her focus around Zack Russo. Temporarily stepping in while her co-worker and best friend completes her radiation therapy for breast cancer, Zack quickly becomes both a thorn in Lisa’s side and the star of her late-night fantasies. Determined to blame it on perimenopause, Lisa just needs to survive the next six months; then Rose will be back, and Zack can return to LA. So what if he seems just as drawn to her as she is to him? Two ex-husbands are enough to prove that her judgment (and her whacked-out hormones) when it comes to men should not be trusted!

What I enjoyed most about this book is that Jane Costello doesn’t beat around the bush. If she hints at something that has a deeper story or more to it, you don’t have to wait until the end of the book for a big reveal. She tells you fairly quickly what happened. In fact, it is absolutely amazing how much she reveals in the first quarter of the book. It’s refreshing because it feels more real and natural for the character rather than forcing a dramatic, highly anticipated reveal later down the line. This approach allows the reader to settle into the book, reading as if we are listening to a girlfriend while hanging out – giving her the space to just be, vent, and breathe without judgment.

As I said before, this book is essentially a diary detailing the day-to-day life of Lisa Darling. We see her at work, interacting with colleagues and tackling projects and presentations. We are with her when she spends time with her friends, supporting Rose her best friend – through her treatments. We see how she navigates her relationship with her ex-husband, copes with co-parenting, and struggles as a single mother. On the outside, she is determined to be everything to everyone, but her to-do list just keeps getting longer and longer. Her free time is consumed by tasks she has postponed, leaving her no time to simply exist outside of her roles, to be selfish, or to just relax. We witness what women in her situation have mastered hiding: the self-doubt, the need for reassurance, and the judgment – whether self-imposed or delegated by others.

I loved that the story wasn’t depressing or sad. It didn’t bring you down or make you feel sorry for Lisa. If anything, you walk away feeling empowered, as the book pulls back the mask of someone you admire and says, “See, she is struggling just like you – don’t let the smile fool you. You’ve got this!” I already appreciated my mother, but looking back, I don’t know how she did it all!

The book was steamy, but just barely. There were sultry moments between Zach and Lisa, but the word choice and brief, workaround descriptions kept them from being truly spicy. Consider it open-door, but with a very heavy filter – you get the gist of what is happening in the scene, but none of the in-depth details. It’s perfect for someone who prefers closed-door romances or little to no spice in their books. Don’t get me wrong, the moments they kissed were out of this world! I always appreciate an author who can make a simple connection feel explosive.

I also enjoyed the play on words in the title, as you quickly learn that perimenopause isn’t the only thing making her hot under the collar. The struggle she has fighting her attraction is absolutely hilarious, and the running dialogue in her head kept me giggling.

I applaud Jane for writing a character who is sincere, vulnerable, real, and relatable. Whether it’s the never-ending to-do list, the obligations pulling her in multiple directions, decisions driven by fear, or hesitations rooted in self-doubt, a woman of any age can look at Lisa Darling and see herself – either where she was, where she is, or where she may one day be. I had already guessed how the book was going to end, but I still enjoyed it all the way to the very last page. If I were to take away anything from Jane’s book, it would be this: show yourself some grace and don’t be afraid to put yourself first. You can still be there for others, but if you give every little piece of yourself away, there will eventually be nothing left – then what? Trust yourself and your capabilities. You are doing the best you can, and no one can ask more of you than that.

This was a humorous and relatable look at finding love in midlife, balancing motherhood, exes and romance with the challenges of getting older. Funny and good on audio, it was an enjoyable listen perfect for fans of books like Class mom by Laurie Gelman. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy in exchange for my honest review!

Books really find you at the right time, don't they? I will be forever grateful to Jane Costello and Zibby Publishing for allowing me the opportunity to read and review It's Getting Hot In Here before its release on 2/4/25. This book found me at the right time. After a trying January here in the US, to finish the month with this seriously funny and enjoyable gem was a relief and well-needed.

Lisa Darling is an ambitious and driven TV executive, twice divorced, mother of two that is navigating a life filled with PTA functions and friendship support - not to mention at 47, perimenopause symptoms. She doesn't exactly see Zach Russo coming her way. Zach is filling in at work for her boss/friend who is on leave and boy so they clash - maybe in all the right ways!

If you are a woman of a certain age, you will laugh out loud and find yourself smirking and smiling through the pages here. Jane Costello writes with a humor that is relatable, brave, and genuine. I was lucky enough to be able to receive the ARC from Zibby Publishing and also a ALC from Librofm. Narrator Karen Cass does a stellar job bring the story to life in such a way I felt like she was a friend sharing Lisa's story with me.

If you, like me, are looking for a book to wipe away some anxiety and sadness, and bring a smile to your face pick this up this week! Enjoy!

A fun, easy read about a 47-year-old, divorce streaming service executive in Manchester, England trying to get through each day while raising two sons. She is overcommitted and can never seem to get to her to-do list. It's a romance mixed with real life for readers who know what it's like to experience a hot flash.

The last thing Lisa could have expected has landed on her doorstep in the form of Zack, an attractive and engaging man who seems to be speaking something in her. She's got too much going on-she's got kids. a job, a sick friend-and he's not her priority. Oh, and she's in perimenopause. I liked that this leaned into the realities of mid-life women and that the romance element was not as important as the rest. Lisa is a hoot, her kids are realistic, and more than one I nodded my head in recognition and sympathy. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. An engaging and entertaining read.

This is so funny, snarky and spot on for ALL women. Perfect kick off for February reading, and exactly what I wanted for a little escape at the end of the day!!!

It’s Getting Hot in Here by Jane Costello is an absolute blast! This book is fun, relatable, and totally engaging, especially since the characters’ age and life experiences felt so similar to my own. It made it incredibly easy to connect with the story and root for the characters.

Costello’s humor and witty writing style kept me hooked from the start. The challenges, triumphs, and awkward moments were all so spot-on that I couldn’t help but laugh out loud and nod along at times. It’s a story that feels both fresh and authentic while still delivering the emotional depth you’d expect from a great contemporary romance.

While it didn’t completely knock my socks off, it was a highly enjoyable read that I’d recommend to anyone looking for a charming, lighthearted escape. Jane Costello has a knack for capturing the ups and downs of life and love in a way that’s equal parts hilarious and heartwarming!

This book was a hilarious and heartfelt story that celebrates the ups and downs of midlife. The book brilliantly captures the humor and drama of Lisa's life, from dealing with an opinionated teenager and a pet-obsessed grade-schooler to organizing PTA events and supporting her best friend through breast cancer treatment. Just when Lisa thinks she can't handle any more, Zach enters the scene, adding an exciting and fluster-inducing twist. The chemistry between Lisa and Zach is electric, and their unexpected romance is both steamy and entertaining. As Lisa navigates her complex feelings and life challenges, the story beautifully explores themes of self-discovery and choosing oneself.

This is a must-read for anyone looking for a light, easy-to-read book with a mix of humor, romance, and heartfelt moments. It's a delightful reminder that even in the midst of life's messiness, there's always room for laughter, love, and personal growth.

The best women's fiction/rom-com I have read in a long time! I adored this book and Jane Costello's writing style. I'm really looking forward to cruising her backlist now.

Lisa Darling is a divorced mama with 2 kids just trying to survive while juggling WAY too many balls. She's a TV executive whose best friend at work is on leave for her breast cancer treatments; enter Zach Russo from stage left. While Lisa is dealing with an unruly teenager, sports club obsessed ten year old, demanding PTA and of course work life, Lisa is starting to have a whole lotta hot flashes when Zach is around. Is she actually attracted to him or is this just her fun perimenopause symptoms she wonders. This novel was filled with laugh out lot dialogue, supportive friends and family, and quite a bit of spice! Thank you NetGalley and Zibby Books for the gifted book in exchange for an honest review. As I'm rapidly approaching the big 4-0, I felt very seen in this book and absolutely adored it!

I LOVED this book! It portrayed motherhood and perimenopause in all his vulnerable, hilarious, chaotic glory, and I felt SEEN. I laughed so hard at how Jane Costello described some of our mundane experiences, and I rooted for her as a mom, friend, PTA member, and single woman finding herself in a surprising romance. My only critique is I felt the end was a bit rushed (although maybe I just wanted more of the story). I'll recommend this to all my fellow mom readers, just for the laughs alone, but I know they'll also appreciate the heartfelt family and friendship moments as well. Thanks to Netgalley for the arc!

What a fun book! I love romantic comedies and it was really nice to read one with a woman in perimenopause! The banter was fun, the lives of the characters were believable (raising teens on your own is not easy), and I rooted for the couple. I hadn't read anything by Jane Costello (or Catherine Isaac) before and will definitely go pick up a few of her titles. This one is guaranteed to circulate at my book club of 15 women aged 35-55!

Thank your for the ARC!

It's Getting Hot in Here by Jane Costello is a light romantic read. I like that this is about older characters than usual. A quick and fun read. I received a complimentary copy from Zibby Publishing via Netgalley. All opinions expressed are mine

Another enjoyable romance with a sprinkle of women’s issues by Rosen. Lisa is a single mom, working in television, raising two boys, one a teenager, and battling perimenopause. When her best friend Rose has to leave work temporarily to undergo cancer treatment, enter Zach, a handsome and appealing man, awakening feelings in Lisa she thought were long dead. There are humorous moments in this vacation beach read. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.

"It's Getting Hot in Here" lives up to its title in more ways than one!

Jane Costello brings us Lisa Darling, a twice-divorced TV executive whose life is heating up both literally (thanks, perimenopause!) and figuratively when a handsome new colleague arrives at work.

Between managing hot flashes and office drama, Lisa's world is delightfully chaotic. She's got a teenage son who occasionally remembers she exists, a best friend facing cancer, and even a hamster named Alan who might just be the most well-adjusted character in the book. The PTA meetings read like wine-fueled social experiments, and Lisa handles it all with the kind of humor that makes you genuinely laugh out loud.
The romance with Zach Russo develops at a perfect simmer. Their chemistry feels natural, probably because they're both too busy dealing with real life to force the romance. And speaking of real life, Costello tackles perimenopause with refreshing honesty and humor, making it less of a taboo topic and more of a "welcome to the club" conversation.

The book strikes a great balance between lighter moments (like Lisa's internal monologues about her body's surprise performances) and deeper themes about friendship, family, and finding love later in life. It's the kind of story that makes you laugh while also nodding in recognition.
This was my first Jane Costello book, but it certainly won't be my last. Strongly recommend for anyone who enjoys their romance with a healthy dose of humor. Just maybe keep a fan handy while reading - you know, just in case!

Thank you to NetGalley and Zibby books for the advanced reader copy. All opinions are my own.

Funny and so relatable! Lisa Darling is a single mother trying to juggle work, kids activities, PTA meetings, and get to do lists done. She feels like she is failing her son as they keep fighting and he is being defiant by vaping and drinking. She needs her ex-husband to step up and be more reliable and help out more. She is always saying “yes” to PTA things and she keeps getting taken advantage of.

Lisa is 47 and she is experiencing hot flashes and keeps thinking her HRT need to be adjusted. Her best friend Rose has been diagnosed with cancer so she goes with her to treatments. Rose takes time away from work and Zach Russo steps in to take her spot. Lisa is having steamy dreams about her coworker and soon he is all she thinks about.

I liked all Lisa’s to do lists and how she kept track of everything. She soon discovers that she needs to put herself first and make some boundaries. I just breezed through this book as it was a sheer delight.

This was first book by this author and will be looking for more. The story had so many moving parts to keep you entertained .

Based on the synopsis, I really wanted to love this book but I just could not connect with the author’s writing style. Might be for others but it was not for me.

Fun, witty and relatable - I'm always looking for a good romcom, especially about middle age. Well written and an easy read. I'll be looking at others for this author.

I had high hopes for this book! The description sounded great, and Zibby Books reached out to me to see if I wanted to read this ARC and that interested me, but I wound up unfortunately not finishing this book. I read up until Chapter 9, and there were a lot of B stories during this timeframe that was a bit distracting. Perhaps I should have read more of it to get to the romance part, but the story felt a bit overwhelming. I would have loved to see the romance plot be front and center, and have the storyline with Rose and her friendship more at the forefront rather than the FMC's home life.

Lisa is a divorced single mom, raising 2 boys, one of which is a rebellious teenager. She’s in over her head on PTA committees, heading events to be the “good mom” while supporting her ill friend and working full time. She hasn’t a moment to spare, but I can’t help thinking about the temporary replacement for her bestie at work. Does he think he can waltz in and make waves when he’s only temporary? Is that a hot flash or is it the new guy?!!

Funny & relatable to moms and women of a certain age, romance and some spice. We all need a happy ending. Check this one out in February. Thanks to #netgalley and #zibbybooks for the advance copy in exchange for my honest review. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Single mum of two, based in the Manchester office of an American television conglomerate, Lisa Darling has a lot on her plate. The twice divorced Lisa's job keeps her very busy, but she is guilted into volunteering for the kid's school's PTA, because she feels she will be a better mother if she does. Her mum and her best friend hate her second husband who is never around to help parent the kids, busy as he is with his new life and new love interest. She certainly needs help with the boys-especially 15 year Leo who is blowing off his good grades in favor of a wishful rugby career. It seems that both Lisa and Leo are having "hormonal issues," one as he grows into adolescence and the other as she experiences the change and deals with roller coaster symptoms and HRT corrections. Lisa is also surrounded by good friends in and out of her workplace. But her best work friend has been diagnosed with breast cancer-she has to take a leave of absence to have an operation and subsequent treatment. They are both curious about the new guy sent from the L.A. office to take her place for the six months she's in recovery.
This new guy, Zach, will be closely working with Lisa and her team-she finds and greenlights television shows, and his office does the scheduling. She takes a meeting with him to discuss their possible new acquisition and so she can check him out-and as soon as he comes into the room she gets her first hot flash...or is he just, well, hot? Unfortunately he's also obnoxious, criticizing her new show and cutting the meeting short-Lisa knows this is going to be a long six months. Can this work relationship turn into a love relationship...not bloody likely and yet....
A cut above frothy, Costello's rom-com actually transcends the genre, placing romance as a part but not the heart of her novel. Yes, there is the steamy action with love interest Zach, but it's not really the center of the book-balancing friendship, work, and motherhood takes precedence. This is a smart take on growing up, determining what you really want, and learning how to get it. Good women's read.

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