WOW. This novel was a fantastic read and is on course to be the next big thing. Far as popularity and resonance go, I have no doubt that Lauren Okie will join the ranks of Taylor Jenkins Reid, Emily Henry, and many more. The Best Worst Thing delivers on a charged, emotional romance/womens fiction novel that dives into deep and messy emotion in a charming and intricate voice. I have no doubt readers will fall in love with protagonist Nicole and the resonant reality of her story. It would be a great book club read. I will be sure to recommend this to many readers - whether you prefer romance or literary fiction, Hoover or Picoult, I believe this novel will have something for almost every voracious reader.

Thank you to the author and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in advance!

I love these kinds of novels that aren't romances, but have a romantic element that isn't schmaltzy and doesn't make you feel dirty after reading some of the more "spicy" scenes. It felt real, and it awakened that new, exciting part of romantic relationships that I think people who have been married for a while will really appreciate and want to foster.

Nicole and Logan's banter was great - I think fans of shows like Dawson's Creek or Gilmore Girls will appreciate it. It also highlighted how different Nicole's relationship was with her husband, which was helpful to see her change and look a little more deeply at what she wanted from life.

I did get frustrated with Nicole's lack of communication, and it felt like the author held back so that she could have a full book, which I understand but it felt a little pandering at times.

All in all, a sweet and lovely book and I won't forget the characters too soon!

The Best Worst Thing is the kind of romance that sneaks up on you — soft and slow-burn at first, then suddenly gut-punchingly real in all the best ways. Lauren Okie has created something rare: a story that’s equal parts swoon, soul, and self-discovery.

The chemistry between the Logan and Nicole is magnetic. It’s full of effortless banter and slow, simmering tension. Logan is every inch the emotionally intelligent, nerdy dreamboat — and the way he listens, waits, and loves Nicole is a lesson in quiet devotion. (Men, take note). Through flashbacks, raw emotional moments, and a romance that never feels rushed, Okie explores grief, healing, and finding joy again after unimaginable heartbreak.

Open-door scenes are sensual without ever being crude — poetic and tender, they speak volumes without saying too much. And while the story is full of rom-com charm, it doesn’t shy away from heavier themes like infertility, loss, and surrogacy — all written with authenticity, warmth, and grace.

Fans of layered love stories that walk the line between real and romantic will devour this one as quickly as I did.

Get out of here right now. This book is everything to me. I want to stand on a rooftop and sing my praise for it. While this book covers some heavy topics (infertility and marital infidelity) it's nicely counterbalanced by Nicole and Logan's developing relationship. The banter and the flirting sent me into orbit. I squealed, I kicked my feet, I had the best time. Beyond the feel-good and butterflies, though, I think this novel nicely showcases the burden of unprocessed trauma and how that can sometimes lead us to get in our own way when life changes in ways we can't predict or struggle to adapt to. It was real. It was relatable. Lauren Okie, I see you girl. 5 stars, no notes.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

In a long struggle to conceive, Nicole experiences a multitude of heartbreak including finding out her husband is cheating on her. Gabe is truly just the worst. She finds herself on the doorstep of an old work friend, Logan. Coffee turns into dinners that turn into a love story that leaves you aching. Through the worst situations, you find yourself in a position to find the best things if you only allow yourself.

I found myself just yelling at Nicole to get it together because LOGAN! I didn’t think I could love a man named Logan after Gilmore Girls. Sorry, I am Team Jess. But boy was I wrong! This man is IT.

Triggers for miscarriage, infertility, and adultery.

📚The Best Worst Thing by @laurensybilokie
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

You know how some books just grab you by the heartstrings from the start? This is one of those. I instantly wanted to be friends with Nicole and loved her story!

Nicole and her husband Gabe (🤮) have been through the wringer with infertility and are on their last hope of having a baby via surrogate when Nicole discovers that Gabe is cheating on her. (Cue the rage) Understandably distraught, her bestie encourages her to drunkenly go see her ex-coworker/possible ex-crush?? Logan. They renew their friendship and begin a summer romance that develops into something deeper. But while her love life is blossoming with Logan, she has to face the reality of her future: finally getting the baby she’s always wanted, now with her cheating loser husband. Can she learn to love herself enough and let go of the idea of the life she thought she’d have for this beautiful one unfolding before her? You’re gonna have to read to it find out 😉

I loved Nicole so much. I loved how strong she was while being dealt some really shitty cards. I loved seeing her discover herself again and take back control of her story, while allowing herself to be vulnerable and accept the love she so deserved.

And Logan 🥹 Oh sweet baby Logan. Want to talk about yearning? This man YEARNED for her. I loved the ADHD representation with his character and how generous and forgiving and patient he was with Nicole.

This book was so good and full of heart, and I can’t recommend it enough. Check TW because this one deals with some heavy topics. It comes out October 14, so go on and preorder it now!

#bookstagram #ARCreview #netgalley #romancebook #secondchanceromance #contemporaryromance #booksta #tbr

Thank you to Netgalley, Avon, and Harper Voyager for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

I thought picking up this book, reading the synopsis, and starting the book that I would love it. The story sounded great. I even thought I might cry, laugh, and get to know the characters. The problem was that nothing great happened. It fell flat. I didn't get to know the characters the way I wanted, except for a Podcast near the end where Nicole told us all about Logan. I wanted to fall in love. I wanted to see it through her eyes. It didn't draw me in.

The story itself could have been better. It could have given more. I think if I had been emotionally attached, I would have loved it even more.

I adored this!

Lauren Okie’s debut novel The Best Worst Thing is something I requested at random and I am so glad I did!

I love when love is complicated and mature and still silly and romantic. These characters felt like real people to me, especially Nicole. Her journey of infertility and IVF, though not things I’ve experienced personally, felt handled with grace and care and not overblown.

Logan is a silly, goofy dreamboat that I loved.

This stuck the landing for me!

Thank you to Avon and NetGalley for eARC!

The Synopsis:
Nicole has been struggling with infertility for years and knows this coming embryo transfer to her gestational carrier will be her last shot. She comes home from the procedure early to find her dog walker waiting in bed for her husband, Gabe. Yikes. Nicole immediately knows she is leaving him, there will be no second chances and finds herself drunk on Logan's doorstep. Logan is a previous coworker of Nicole's and she hasn't seen him in two years. The only thing Nicole is sure of is the tug she feels towards him.

Reminded Me Of:
The beginning of All Your Perfects by CoHo, Kat's poem to Patrick in 10 Things I Hate About You and a twist on The Office, where Roy has a glow up, Pam marries him and later realizes it's always been Jim.

Review:
I LOVED Lauren Okie's writing style. Her words feel like living, breathing entities. It was interesting because she would use the word "and" continuously as a tool to build momentum, to give the feeling of falling or spiraling. I felt like I was constantly being swept up and away, lost in all the moments. This book is emotional, it is going to make your heart ache but it's also going to make you laugh out loud. The relationship that unfolds between Nicole and Logan is just so right. They are weird and quirky and it made me fall completely in love with them as a couple. The Best Worst Thing is a raw unfiltered look into how infertility can shape and alter life. Its hope, heart and joy in all its different forms.

*Please read the acknowledgement page, I sobbed. The author shares her own story and I think its important readers understand the personal nature of this book to her.

this book broke me down and put me back together again. such a real, raw, and honest exploration of infertility, growth, and self-love. so romantic, so messy, so sweet. i can't wait to handsell this at my store.

logan has also made into the book boyfriend hall of fame. god. he's perfect.

A beautiful raw honest love story that speaks on the struggles of infertility, the joys of friendship and the love found at the time it was least expected.

"The Best Worst Thing" by Lauren Okie completely stole my heart. From the very first chapter, I knew I was in for an emotional ride -- the kind that makes you laugh through your tears and hug the book when it’s over.

This story hits all the best tropes in the most satisfying ways: second chances, and a slow-burn romance that actually feels earned. But what really sets it apart are the characters. They’re messy, complicated, lovable and so real. I found myself rooting for them, yelling at them and wanting to be their friend. The chemistry? Off the charts. But it's the emotional depth that makes this story linger -- the way grief, love and forgiveness are woven together so beautifully.

It’s not just a romance; it’s a story about growth, vulnerability and finding light in the wreckage. Lauren Okie nailed the balance between heartache and hope, giving us a story that feels both intensely personal and universally relatable.

Highly recommend if you love character-driven stories with authentic emotional arcs and just the right touch of angst. This book reminded me why I fell in love with reading in the first place. Thank you so much to Lauren Okie, Avon and Harper Voyager and NetGalley for the ARC -- I so appreciate it.

What a beautiful and well written book! I had no idea what an emotional rollercoaster I was in for. I gasped, I cried, and i laughed. I experienced heart break and healing right along with the main character, Nicole. I found her super relatable because I too can get in my own way sometimes! Also, the main male character will not disappoint. He is top tier perfection and I would like to find me a Logan Milgram! Thank you Lauren Okie for sharing your story and this book with the world! You are a real queen for that!

You need to read this book, like yesterday!

***Check triggers because it does cover some difficult topics that could possibly be triggering to people that have gone through it, but a very beautiful book!
(Infertility, miscarriage, infidelity)

4.75 stars!!!!!!!

precious !!! i loved every second of this book !!!!! it has all of my favorite elements from the office, new girl and nobody wants this. it's hilarious but also touches on some very real challenges and heartaches. it made me laugh out loud & maybe even shed a few tears. the first kiss? hot as heck!!! the chemistry between nicole & logan was OFF THE CHARTS!!! i loved this book so so much!! one of the best friends to lovers i've read in awhile.

speaking of logan, I LOVE HIM!!!!! i want to find one of him in real life, please and thank you!!!!!!

i also love how lauren didn't shy away from the real trauma nicole was going through. having a glimpse into that heartache was very eye-opening and i love how we got to see nicole work through that and come out the other side. this book is incredibly romantic but it's also real and messy (as it should be for the predicament they find themselves in). this was a phenomenal debut and i can't wait to see what lauren does next !!!!!

thank you Avon Books for the arc! this is my honest review.

The Best Worst Thing encapsulates so many emotions and interweaves them in a way that’s charming, guttural, and real.

While I’ve yet to experience childbirth (thank god, I’m only 22) I can say that this story made such an incredible narrative behind the harrowing difficulties that can exist around attempting to become a mother. It is solely a journey that only women can understand. There are always silver linings, as this book relays— despite tough conversations, tough decisions, and attempting to not blame yourself for the way things go. Experienced outside of one’s control, getting so close and everything falling apart. I can tell you this piece sat with me deeply.

Logan is quite possibly the best male lead I’ve read in a very, very long time. He is funny, charming, lovable— but most of all, he is human. Logan Milgram is the most normal and fleshed-out male leads that exists. He has witty quips and stupid comments, he is true to himself and wholly unique. I do in fact think I’m in love with him, really. He’s just the best. Everyone deserves to find a Logan.

I found it to be a little long in certain parts, and I do think I could do without some of the normal day-to-day that seems to happen throughout. While some of it I loved, I found other bits to make the pace drag, and for a romance novel over 400 pages, I think some of it could be done away with and the true meat of the story would still stand.

Overall, Lauren Okie is one to watch. Her writing is impeccable and so very vivid. I found myself captivated by the way she chose to tell this story, utilizing her craft in a sharp and engaging way.

Wowowowowow. My heart is soaring. I could have done without all the miscommunication, but Logan and Nicole are everything!!! I will definitely be keeping an eye out for any future books by Lauren Okie.

Thank you to netgalley and the publisher for providing this e-arc in exchange for my honest review.

Thank you to Netgally, Lauren Okie and Avon and Harper Voyager for this advanced reader’s copy ebook of The Best Worst Thing. The following will be my honest thoughts,
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (Infinity stars, honestly)
Lauren Okie’s The Best Worst Thing isn’t just a book—it’s a bright new dawn for the romance genre. I’m not exaggerating when I say this might just be my fave book of the year, and it has officially shattered my rating scale.
From the opening chapter, where I was crying by page five (yes, five), to the last line of the epilogue—which had me smiling ear to ear—this book had me in its grip. And that epilogue? I normally despise epilogues, but this one was literal perfection.
The story is a gut-punch of emotions: heartbreak and laughter, poetic tenderness and hilarious drama. Nicole’s thoughts about striving to be perfect and not knowing how to be loved? Oof. Felt in my core, so raw and relatable. And Lauren Okie’s personal note in the acknowledgments, sharing her own experience with infertility, gave this story an added layer of delicacy and truth. It’s one of those rare books that handles sensitive topics—like infertility, cheating, and betrayal—with such care and empathy, yet never loses its spark of humor.
Speaking of humor: the scene where Nicole and Mari drink away the horror of finding Gabe in bed with the dog walker? Pure comedic gold. And shoutout to her offering her weed in the aftermath—an absolute icon.
But let’s talk about Logan. My god, Logan. A man who understands the significance of Darcy’s hand flex and reads dog-eared copies of books? Be still, my heart. Their chemistry is magnetic—like Nick and Jess from New Girl, and his relationship with his friends think that scene in How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days with the poker game vibes but make it D&D. The teasing banter, the pop culture references (which, I normally hate, but here were done so perfectly), and the slow, intense build of longing had me blushing, swooning, and genuinely sighing out loud.
And then there’s that pen-and-paper-in-the-locked-car scene. If you know, you know. It’s tender, grounded, and breathtakingly layered—lyrical in its simplicity, but with an ache that feels so real. The spice? Phenomenal. The tension? Electrifying. And the fact that these two nerds bantered over the best pop tart flavors and The Princess Bride quotes? I want to bottle it up and keep it forever.
I laughed. I cried. I cackled. I highlighted quotes until my Kindle was ready to combust. And by the end, I was so thoroughly enchanted that I already want to re-read it. And let’s not forget the epilogue—normally I’m epilogue-averse, but this one was so good it had me grinning like a fool. The last line? Literal chef’s kiss.
Lauren Okie is a bright new, beautiful voice in romance, and I will read anything she writes from here on out.
If you’re a fan of heartbreak, healing, pop culture banter, nerdy heroes, and the most worthwhile epilogue you’ll ever read… The Best Worst Thing is a must. Infinity stars.

I had high hopes for this book after reading the blurb—it sounded like it had all the ingredients for a compelling, emotional read. Unfortunately, it just didn’t deliver. The story felt flat and underdeveloped, with too many plot holes to ignore and characters that lacked depth or emotional resonance.

I found myself waiting for it to pick up or surprise me, but it never quite did. While the premise had real potential, the execution left me feeling disconnected and, honestly, a bit bored.

3.25⭐

This is a great book—it feels personal and explores such an important topic as infertility. I really liked the MMC, but the FMC started to annoy me in the second half of the book. She couldn’t make up her mind, wasn’t resolving things with her husband, and kept things from Logan.

A heartfelt romance filled with tender moments and deep emotions — the perfect second-chance story that captures real-life challenges and the enduring power of love..