Thank you, BookSparks and RB Media, for the review copies of On Her Terms by Amy Spalding!

I'm always here to support queer stories, and Spalding's sapphic romances never disappoint. She delivers rich character depth, emotional development, undeniable chemistry, and that perfect mix of yearning and swoon-worthy moments that make any romance shine.

For fans of her Out in Hollywood books, there are some delightful cameos and returns to familiar characters. But if this is your first Spalding novel, don’t worry—you won’t feel lost at all (though I highly recommend picking up her other books if this one wins you over).

The novel’s standout themes include exploring identity, growing not just "up" but into one’s sexuality, and moving beyond the "baby gay" phase toward self-acceptance, confidence, and clarity in relationships and personal goals. It’s also refreshing to see a romance centered on characters in their 30s.

What resonated most for me, though, was its honest look at friendships—especially those that no longer serve us. The book thoughtfully examines how not all friendships allow us to be our true selves and the importance of recognizing when to let go. Spalding approaches these themes with openness, heart, and an authenticity that hit home for me.

In a time when so many of us—post-pandemic, under the weight of ongoing global stress, and grappling with burnout—have had to reevaluate the people in our lives, this book feels especially meaningful. And for queer and questioning readers, I imagine it will matter even more.

Sweet, steamy, queer romance that plays with the “fake dating” trope to great effect. The inner monologs and interpersonal dialogs are believable and well scripted. While it is fairly obvious where the main plot is headed (it’s a romance novel, after all), the characters are complex and grow, and people are generally mature and decent to one another, and the female (& nonbinary) friendships are rich and generally supportive, I thoroughly enjoyed this and the narrator for the audiobook is excellent.

3.5 rounded up to 4!

I really appreciated this book! As someone who is part of the LGBTQ+ community in a straight-passing marriage, this was an interesting read as I’ve been with my husband since we were 14 so I haven’t had a lot relationships - and none with women though that attraction is there. It takes you into her worries of not being queer enough but she found a friend group that understand her. Outside of the relatable parts, I loved the storyline - I’m a sucker for fake relationship romances. I think the author did it well. I also really liked that the side characters still had their own personalities and importance to the story.

I loved the first one so was thrilled to be granted access to this one. It didn’t disappoint! I had a great time. The chemistry was here plus the passion. I loved listening to this one!

Clementine is a chaotic late bloomer bisexual who doesn’t want 2.5 kids and a piket fence. Very relatable. I loved how well done the found family was!!! The fake dating relationship felt real to a point where you thought „ oh these are real people who are really fucked up and should just talk about there feelings“ but not in a annoying miscommunication way but in a „I am scared to get hurt and don’t know how to get over rejection „ kind of way.

Cloe‘s voice for the Audiobook was so fun it had so much character. Sassy af.

This book was great, such a good plausible story line. Very easy to read and enjoy. The narration was excellent and I didn’t want the book to end.

After admittedly not loving her previous book, I was a little hesitant to give On Her Terms by Amy Spalding, a chance. But when I saw Lori Prince was the narrator, I decided to go for it. And boy am I glad I did! Lori Prince is by far my favorite narrator and, with this book, she has proved her skill once again.

The depth and nuance she brought to the voices of Clementine and (especially) Chloe made these characters jump off the page. The writing itself was a welcomed surprise and, in my opinion, was a step up from Spalding’s last book, At Her Service. Combined with Prince’s stellar narration, this story kept me engaged from start to finish and gave me the happy ending I craved. I highly recommend this audio book if you’re looking for a well-rounded romance and engaging (and often hilarious) narration.

There's a lot to like here - and a lot I struggled with.

Clem's journey was easy to root for: She broke up with her boyfriend after realizing it felt like he didn't really know/understand her, and the life he had planned for them wasn't the one she wanted. She's also bi, but because she was with Will for ages, she's never dated women before/many in her life don't see her as queer.

Chloe suggests they fake date, so she has a date for her friends' wedding, and Clem can get through the "baby gay" phase. [redacted to avoid spoilers]

Maybe the best part of ON HER TERMS was the friendships, and the way in which so many characters show up for others. Nina and Ari (from book #1) make several appearances (it's their wedding!) I skipped the second book in the series, but Sadie's in this one multiple times as well. I appreciated author Amy Spalding's commentary on making and holding space for our friends.

Audiobook narrator Lori Prince's delivery was good, and her differentiation between Clem and Chloe was easy to follow. The pickups were a little noticeable, but weren't too bad. One issue, however: the NetGalley app had me at 100% before Clem and Chloe even reunited! The book ended at 108%.

A delightful sapphic story of a "baby gay" finding her way in the queer world alongside her (fake...at the beginning) partner - and she's plus size!! I can not endorse this book enough - it made me feel so seen!!

I absolutely enjoyed this audiobook, especially for how beautifully it balances career ambition, personal growth, complex family dynamics, and a heartfelt romance. Clementine’s journey is one of self-discovery, and I was completely drawn to the way she navigates change—both in her professional life and in her personal identity.

After ending a long-term relationship with her boyfriend, Clementine decides it’s finally time to explore dating women. She’s identified as bisexual for a long time but hasn’t had the chance to pursue a relationship with a woman—until she meets Chloe. Chloe needs a date for a series of wedding events with her friends, and Clem agrees to a fake relationship, seeing it as an opportunity to gain some experience before looking for something "real." But, of course, as they spend more time together, Clem starts to realize how much she genuinely likes Chloe, blurring the lines between what was supposed to be pretend and what feels undeniably real. Their chemistry is undeniable, and it’s so satisfying to watch Clem step into this new chapter of her romantic life with both excitement and uncertainty.

But Clem’s growth isn’t just about romance—she’s also learning to shed the expectations that have shaped her for so long. As a lifelong people-pleaser, she has spent years trying to meet her family’s standards, never feeling quite "perfect enough." Over the course of the book, she comes to understand that she doesn’t need to be defined by her past or by who others expect her to be. Her evolving relationship with her sister is another highlight, adding depth to the theme of self-acceptance and proving that personal growth isn’t just about finding love—it’s also about healing and strengthening the relationships that matter.

Clementine’s career adds another compelling layer to the story, and I loved seeing her passion for her work. It’s refreshing to read about a character so driven in her field while also grappling with personal identity in such an honest, relatable way.

The audiobook narration enhances every moment, making Clem’s journey even more immersive and emotionally resonant. *On Her Terms* is a heartfelt, empowering listen—one that beautifully captures the highs and lows of stepping into your true self, embracing new possibilities, and realizing that sometimes, what starts as an experiment might just turn into something real.

Before I get into my review of “On Her Terms”, I’d like to thank NetGalley and RBmedia for the eARC copy!

I’ve been looking forward to reading this book since the day Amy Spalding announced it, and I’m slightly disappointed. The way Chloe treated Clementine throughout the whole book gave me the biggest ick ever.

One moment Chloe would tell Clementine that the reason she wouldn’t tell Clementine her type in women is because it was Clementine. Then another minute she would completely shut out Clementine and pretend she didn’t suggest the whole fake dating agreement in the first place.

I honestly felt sad for Clementine throughout this whole book. Clementine did so much for Chloe, when Chloe did the bare minimum.

This book reminded me of my first relationship as a baby gay, somewhat toxic and an inevitable train wreck.

These two (somehow) had a happily ever after, but in another universe (the one where this book takes place) I think we all know that won’t last too long.

Netgalley and Amy - Thank you for allowing me to read this book early. I enjoyed the journey Clementine and Chloe went on and enjoyed their characters and friend groups! I've added my review below.

Loved this book! The fast-paced dialogue and rapport between Clementine and Chloe was to die for, and felt really authentic. I listened to the audio version and the narration was excellent. The narrator really did justice to Clem’s personality.

Read if you like: Olivia Dade (older MCs who aren’t interested in having kids), Ashley Herring Blake (similar loving friend group vibe), and late bloomer stories.

Thanks to Netgalley and RBmedia for providing me with a copy of the book.

Spalding enchants readers with her masterful portrayal of emotion in On Her Terms, the third installment of the Out in Hollywood series. From confusion and sadness to joy and love, the characters express their feelings with striking depth and authenticity, creating moments that truly resonate. At the heart of the story is Clementine, a bisexual woman navigating her “baby gay” phase after the end of a long-term heterosexual relationship—a journey many readers will find deeply relatable. Her path to self-discovery is not only genuine but also infused with humor, especially as she embarks on a fake relationship with Chloe, a lively and free-spirited dog groomer. While the fake-dating trope is familiar, Spalding breathes fresh life into it through Clementine and Chloe’s nuanced dynamic, making their chemistry all the more compelling. Their witty exchanges and evolving bond add layers of tension, heat, and humor, ensuring the narrative remains both engaging and refreshingly original.

Spalding’s writing shines in its ability to create characters who feel undeniably real, brimming with the quirks and complexities of everyday life. Each scene is a vivid snapshot, rich with emotion and nuance, drawing readers into the heart of the story. Clementine and Chloe’s awkward yet endearing navigation of their fake relationship is a delight to witness. While Chloe grapples with romantic attachment due to her insecurities, Clementine’s journey toward embracing her true self adds depth to their dynamic, keeping readers invested until the very last page. On Her Terms is more than just an enjoyable read—it’s a thoughtful exploration of identity, love, and the beautifully messy human experience.

The novel’s heartfelt depiction of queer friendships and chosen family is both compelling and deeply resonant. These bonds, a cornerstone of the LGBTQ+ experience, are portrayed by Spalding with authenticity and care. Chloe’s vibrant circle of friends adds richness to the narrative, underscoring the profound role of community in queer life. Each friend brings a unique perspective and their own set of challenges, making their connections feel dynamic and real. Through shared laughter, struggles, and unwavering support, they create a sanctuary where acceptance and love thrive. This aspect of the novel truly elevates the storytelling, making it memorable and read worthy.

A word about the narration…

Lori Prince delivers a masterful performance in this delightful fake-dating romance, effortlessly balancing humor and heartfelt moments to create an emotionally resonant listening experience. With her rich, expressive voice, she brings the well-developed characters to life, enhancing the sharp dialogue and the story’s nuanced exploration of queer identity. Her skillful narration adds depth and charm, making this audiobook an absolute winner.

Strengths…

Well-written
Emotionally engaging
Well-scripted dialogue
Entertaining supporting cast
Old trope with a fresh voice
Easy to enjoy
Excellent narration

I absolutely loved this book! Fake dating, discovering your bisexuality later in adulthood, a ton of laughs - what more could you ask for?! The narration was fantastic and really captivated the feelings of Clementine and helps the listener pick up on the nuances of the feelings of other characters. Chloe and Clementine were well developed and I loved learning about their lives. I highly recommend this to every romance reader!

On Her Terms by Amy Spalding-
I love Amy Spalding and this book series they are always so fun and cute!

This book was such a fun and heartfelt read! Clementine’s journey of self-discovery, fresh off a breakup and questioning what she truly wants, felt so relatable. The fake dating setup with Chloe, a witty and confident dog groomer, was the perfect mix of chaos and charm. Their banter had me laughing out loud, and the slow-burn tension made their growing connection all the more satisfying.

What I loved most was how this wasn’t just a romance—it was also about Clem figuring out what makes her happy beyond relationships. She’s not just looking for love; she’s redefining what she wants her life to look like. Chloe, on the other hand, is convinced Clem is just eager to settle down with *someone*, and watching them navigate that push and pull was both frustrating and rewarding in the best way.

By the end, I was completely invested in their story. The writing is sharp, funny, and full of heart, making every moment between Clem and Chloe feel authentic. If you love fake dating, slow-burn romance, and characters with great chemistry, this book is an absolute must-read!

on her terms by amy spalding is a comedic sapphic fake dating rom-com!

let me start with highlights! our main character, clementine is bi, plus-size, and has adhd, all of which were very well represented and a lot of great conversations about mental illness, fatness, and bisexuality transpire throughout the book! The audiobook narration itself was well done, the differentiation between the characters was clear and the tone was very engaging and caught the comedic timing quite well! the love interest, chloe, had a very sweet, queer friend group, through which the societal prioritization of romantic or sexual love over platonic love was explored beautifully.

now for my qualms.... let me begin by prefacing that I am not saying this as a generational insult by any means, but this was a very millennial book. which is okay! it is just something to keep in mind if that isn't really for you! for example, clementine's workplace is "Big Marketing Energy", chloe wears crocs in nearly every scene, clem's cat is named jesse pinkman, the word "twee" is used about 20 times too many, and quite frankly, the references and much of the metaphors (and even dialogue) read as just too online, if that makes sense. I saw someone else describe the dialogue as reading like twitter discourse and that really hit the nail on the head.

now for my main qualm: the love interest is despicable. I really tried to like her but the way she objectifies, infantilizes, fetishizes, and condescends down to clementine is wild. chloe gives bi-affirming speeches to clem that her place within the queer community isn't dependent on the gender of her partner, but then turns around and contradicts this repeatedly by acting as a queer elder that is showing clem the "baby gay" the ropes of queerness following her breakup with a "boring man". chloe calls clementine a "baby gay" a total of 15 times throughout the book (I bought it on kindle just to count) and although clementine's ex-boyfriend, will, remained on good terms and hold no animosity seeing as they had a healthy adult break up, chloe takes every opportunity to call him "boring" and be very rude. all in all, chloe treats clementine pretty horribly throughout the book, and I found myself disappointed when they resolved their third-act conflict. the build up for their relationship is nonexistent. their romance isn't believable and I didn't root for them at any point.

also I would like to preface this by saying that I am a bi-romantic demisexual so my experiences as a bisexual woman are likely very different from someone who is not aroaspec. while there were aspects of clem's bisexuality that aligned with my own personal experiences with bisexuality, specifically the internalized biphobia of having only ever been with a man, there were other aspects that didn't quite sit right with me. one such example would be the way that clem's exploration of her sapphic attraction is described as her 'deciding' she wants to be with a woman now. now this could be how this feels for some bi women, and could simply be something that my demisexuality doesn't resonate with, but it wasn't my desired way of seeing bisexuality be represented. it also didn't sit right with me with the thin love interest that fetishized the main character's fatness during the sexual scenes, "complimenting" her in ways that didn't feel as much like compliments as much as they did gratuitous objectification.

once again, these could just be my personal opinions based on my experiences with attraction, but I wanted to make sure I put it out there in case someone else would be bothered by that. please remember that these are just my opinions and if you love this, there is nothing wrong with that!!

maybe this just wasn't for me! and this is okay!

this book did have a lot of fun tropes though, so if you are a fan of fake dating, forced proximity, or one-bed trope, you could definitely have fun with this!

What can I say…..as an ARC listen I didn’t know what to expect and honestly it couldn’t have been better if it had tried!

I absolutely loved the character development throughout and although some parts are standard in a romance novel, it was done in such a clever way!

Characters had real depth and grew throughout the book and was lovely to see.

It was a bit spicy, made my heart sing and brought me to tears. What else could I ask for! Utterly brilliant!

I want to thank the publisher for both a digital ARC and a digital ALC. I’ve read all three Out in Hollywood books, and after being disappointed by [book:At Her Service|157995253], I’m happy to say Spalding is back with a story that’s funny, heartbreaking, and impossible to put down.

Clem comes with a lot of baggage, but so does Chloe. I wasn’t a big fan of Clem—she felt self-centered, especially around her childhood friends—but she had a lot of grace for Chloe, and Chloe didn’t always return the favor. Chloe’s devil-may-care attitude was also frustrating at times, particularly in vulnerable situations. And yet, despite all of that, I still really enjoyed the book.

The best part? Chloe’s friends. They were supportive, funny, and brought a warmth to the story that made it easier to deal with the moments where Clem or Chloe tested my patience.

There were things I wanted more clarity on, and some characters I really wanted to see get what they deserved. But in the end, I was fully invested in Clem and Chloe’s story, rooting for them all the way.