This romantic story follows the life of Jane, a 33 year old film executive living in Los Angeles. She wants to make a great film, but the only way she can try to make this happen, is by working with Dan: a disorganised, brutally honest cinematographer.

I always adore Monaghan's romances. They are sunlight-soaked stories of a gentle but passionate falling in love. The best kind! The locations are adorable, the characters are thoughtfully created. I need to meet all the Finnegans, immediately!

This is such a perfect read for everybody missing the warmth and the romance of the summer, and I'm excited for the world to hear about it!

Jane Jackson was a child star on a TV series about a group of kids who have a band (I was thinking the female equivalent of Screech from Saved by The Bell), the kid with goofy braces and a big smile who always gets into trouble/sits on a cream pie - you get the picture. She also had a catchphrase for whenever she did something stupid.

Nowadays, Jane is a Creative Executive at Clearwater Studios and she's found a script that makes her heart sing. Unfortunately, her boss has also shared the script with award-winning film-maker Dan Finnegan, her one-time crush and now arch-enemy. He torpedoed her last script and now he seems to be determined to do the same with this one, contradicting everything she says and insisting that the film is small and quiet. Unfortunately, Jane's boss thinks small and quiet won't sell, they need action and explosions, so unless Jane and Dan can find a way to create a draw for the film its canned. So Jane tells a white lie, well exaggerates massively. She tells them that she is friends with Jack Quinlan, hottest popstar of the moment and she can persuade him to write a song for the film. Jane does know Jack, they sang together once on the hit single released by the TV show, its just that Jack and Jane were singing on behalf of the two 'leads' of the show (going with my Saved by The Bell comparison, they would be Zack and say Kelly) who were attractive but couldn't actually sing. Unfortunately, Jack also humiliated Jane on what turned out to be the worst day of her life and arguably coloured all her beliefs about love and self-worth thereafter.

When Jane asks for Dan's help getting hold of Jack, he lets slip that Jack is playing a festival in Dan’s hometown on Long Island, and Dan's brother is part of the backstage crew. It's also Dan's parents' wedding anniversary and his brothers have planned a week of celebrations so Dan offers to let Jane tag along.

What can I say? I love Annabel Monaghan novels, I loved Dan, I loved Jane and while I thought the conflict at the end was a bit dramatic I could see from where it stemmed. Also, for some reason I thought the romance might be with Jack and so I was prepared to be disappointed - spoiler - I wasn't.

Another banger!

I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley.

Oh this book is bingable! The ending didn’t go the way I expected it to go, it was a bit anticlimactic but that’s not what this book is about. It’s about Jane discovering her true self and dealing with past traumas, from trying to make it big in Hollywood to realising what’s more important in life other than her career.
Jane falls in love with Dan along the way and wow the heartwarming moments they share will have you swooning!

I love Annabels writing! It’s very soothing! It just flows and the next minute I’m finished the book.

This book has a few of our favourite tropes
Found family
Self discovery
Only one bed
Dislike to lovers
It has minimal spice but maximum romance.

Definitely recommend if you love an uplifting cheesy romance

Thank you so much Netgalley for the arc of this book.
FIVE STARS!! this book is so incredibly good - it's tender, heartfelt and so preciously written. Annabel Monaghan absolutely knocked it out of the park with this one. I saw parts of myself reflected in both the main characters and felt immensely happy to see their growth throughout the book. This book is one that will stick with me for a long long time.
Anything Annabel Monaghan writes I will read it, she is a new auto-buy author for me.

Former child actor, Jane, grew up playing the role of the comedic relief, accident prone sidekick. Now a film producer, she's finally found the script that will make her the leading lady in her own life. There's only two problems. One, she's on a mission to convince her old co-star, now famous musician, to write a theme song. And two, to accomplish this she'll have to rely on the one man she can't stand.

This is the second novel I've read by Annabel Monaghan and I loved every minute of it. The premise offers and delivers on a great Rom-Com, whilst also exploring complicated emotions and motivations really well. Both main characters, Jane and Dan, have incredible depth and I connected with both equally (especially impressive for a single POV book).

Thanks to Netgalley and Aria & Aries for the opportunity to read this ARC

Thank you for my earc of this book! I really enjoyed Monaghan‘s previous books so was excited for this!
It didn’t disappoint. I loved the romance, the plot and the characters, the Finnegans were such a lovely addition, and I enjoyed Jane & her mums complex history.
Would definitely recommend!

Review: It’s a Love Story (arc) - @annabelmonaghan

4.5 ⭐️

This book is the first bite of cherry pie, the first dip in the ocean, the first barefoot sprint on the beach in summer. It’s screaming your favourite song from the car window, it’s the smell of sunscreen, it’s dancing in the rain. It’s falling in love while on holidays, it’s infinite promises and it’s violent, beautiful nostalgia.

Wow. What a story. This was my first Annabel Monaghan book and it definitely won’t be my last. I am wholly, irretrievably obsessed with this story.

This story follows Jane: an ex-child actor who is now working for a studio, trying to get a script that she’s in love with, turned into a movie. The problem is? It’s not “commercial enough.” This is where we meet Dan: the cinematographer (who isn’t Jane’s biggest fan). Together, they go on a trip away in search of tracking down an old “friend” of Jane’s (who is now incredibly famous and having him work for the film will sell it to the studio) in hopes to have him write a song for the film.

Jane and Dan spend a week away together in what i can only describe as their own bubble. We get an insight as to how they work as people and the way they connect, the way they speak the same language - the way that they are completely on the same wavelength and they don’t have to say anything to understand each other.

This book had me giggling and kicking my feet, had me yelling in frustration and gave me a massive vibe of “nothing feels real while you’re on holidays.” Jane and Dan’s love seemed so ….real? It was messy, it was ugly, it was perfect.

This book was centred around the romantic and emotional connection you have with someone. This book focused a lot on Dan’s tumultuous family dynamic and the cosy, yet chaotic comfort that comes from being one of many siblings. The way Jane slipped into the madness so easily was so wholesome to read about.

I don’t know how else to describe this book except an ode to your younger self and a love letter to the small moments in life.

Thank you so much to @netgalley for this arc and May 2025 cannot come fast enough as i can’t wait to have the physical copy to re-read and annotate!

"Love happens over breakfast..."
This was my very first Annabel Monaghan Book, and I can safely say this book has made me want to read everything she has ever written.
This book is not only the perfect Summer/Beach read, but it's also full of heart and depth with a romance so layered that you can't help but fall in love with both of them. I loved the relatable family dynamics and the conversation about "Love happens over breakfast"...perfection!
What to expect:
Enemies to Lovers
Beachside Town
One only room
Summer Romance
Movies Industry

Thank you so much to Hachette and Netgalley for my EARC.

The beauty of this story lies in Jane’s journey of vulnerability and self-discovery. She’s spent years hiding behind humor and faking confidence, but Dan challenges everything she thought she knew about herself. The enemies-to-lovers dynamic between Jane and Dan is deliciously tense, filled with witty banter, simmering tension, and moments of surprising tenderness. The contrast between Jane’s personal history with Jack and the tension-filled interactions with Dan make for a fun, heartwarming ride. The small-town Long Island setting adds a cozy backdrop for the drama, and the slow-burn romance is a treat to watch unfold. If you love enemies-to-lovers with a splash of nostalgia and a whole lot of laughs, this one’s a winner.

An easy 5 stars from me
Excellent writing
In-depth, nuanced characterisation
Believable, romantic love story
Well written character arcs and emotional development
Brilliant supporting characters
Interesting 'backdrop' of Hollywood that felt wholly authentic

The best romcom I have read in years.

4.5 stars - Heartfelt, Hilarious, and Oh-So Relatable

It’s A Love Story by Annabel Monaghan stole my heart and left me with a goofy grin. This book was a delightful mix of slow-burn romance, personal growth, and witty banter that had me hooked from page one.

Jane Jackson, former sitcom star and now a determined Creative Executive, is a walking contradiction—trying to outrun her awkward past while faking confidence in a cutthroat industry. Her journey begins with a desperate fib about her “close connection” to mega pop star Jack Quinlan, which leads her straight into the orbit of her so-called nemesis, Dan Finnegan. Spoiler alert: Dan is anything but a nemesis.

The chemistry between Jane and Dan? Off the charts. Their banter is sharp, their connection undeniable, and their week together on Long Island felt like stepping into a cozy rom-com. Dan’s chaotic, loving family only adds to the charm, grounding the story in warm, messy reality.

Monaghan brilliantly balances humor and heart, making Jane’s emotional journey feel authentic and really relatable. I mean who hasn't hidden under the covers, the desk or in a closet when they are anxious or nervous? Watching her shed her polished facade and embrace her true self was as satisfying as the romance itself. And that romance? A masterclass in slow-burn perfection.

While the final conflict felt a tad dramatic, it didn’t detract from the overall joy of the story. This book is a warm hug wrapped in clever dialogue and endearing characters. I want to be a part of Clan Finnegan please and thank you.

If you’re in the mood for a heartfelt, hilarious, and beautifully crafted love story, It’s A Love Story is your next must-read. Preorder it now—you’ll thank me later!

ೃ⁀➷ 5⭐️

Read if you like :

🎥 : perfect writing
🎥 : found family
🎥 : self growth
🎥 : golden retriever boy

damn I knew I’d like it but this crushed all my expectations!
It started slow and for the first 15% I was a little bit bored ngl (intrigued but bored still)
But then they went to NY and you lost me! I am so far gone for Dan it was a bit embarrassing.

this story is indeed a love story but it’s so much more than that. It’s about finding a place where you can be yourself. It’s about being a part of a family when you never really had one. It’s about being yourself without rules or shame.
It resonates so much in me and i know it will resonate in you too. I’m actually crying writing this because that really felt like a love story I’d want if I hadn’t already had my perfect one.

I loved Summer Romance but this one ? it surpassed Annabel Monaghan’s other books. I’m not sorry here she outdone herself.

To be utterly honest here that’s my fav book of january so far and i KNOW it will stay that way. The way Dan READS Jane ???
I HAD BUTTERFLIES THE WHOLE BOOK !!! I never get butterflies !!

I’ll absolutely buy the physical copy when it’s out!!

Annabel Monaghan has quickly become an autobuy author for me so I was extremely excited to receive and early copy of her latest book Its a Love Story. As usual with Annabel Monaghan the writing in this book is beautiful. It is a beautiful and romantic love story that has emotional depth and excellent character development. I really enjoyed the development of the relationship between Jane and Dan. There interactions had me smiling throughout the book. I loved the supporting characters in this one too.
Overall another great romcom with great emotional depth. Definitely one to pick up for an easy and comforting read.

Thank you, NetGalley, Annabel Monaghan, and Aria & Aries, for the chance to read this ARC of It’s A Love Story in exchange for my honest review! It’s A Love Story will be released on 29th May 2025 📖

This story follows Jane Jackson, an ex-child actor who played the cringe / “butt of the joke” character on Pop Rocks (think iCarly or Sonny with a Chance vibes). Trying to leave her past behind, she now works as a creative executive and trying to get a romance script she’s fallen in love with greenlit. In a moment of sheer desperation, Jane oversells her relationship with Jack Quinlan, a now-famous musician she sung with as a teenager, and claims he will pen a song for the soundtrack.

We also meet Dan Finnegan: an arrogant cinematographer (who isn’t one of Jane’s biggest fan). Ironically, he feels the same about this script and is willing to help Jane. Jane and Dan spend a week away together in pursuit of Jack in Long Island, who is headlining a festival that just so happens to coincide with Dan’s parents 40th wedding anniversary.

The book got off to a bit of a slow start for me, I didn't particularly care for Jane or Dan but I pushed through and I’m so happy I did! Once they got to Oak Shore, things really picked up. The rest of the Finnegan family were a beautiful cast of complimentary characters, and I will be dreaming of a love like Cormack & Reenie’s.

TROPES:

- Enemies-to-Lovers

- Summer Romance

- Only One Room

This was my first Annabel Monaghan book and it won’t be my last! A solid, easy to read summer romance!

This is going to be such a good one for summer this year. It's sweet, cute, and wholesome

Jane Jackson, once a childhood actor, is now a Hollywood exec trying to get her movie made. In a desperate move, she claims she can get pop star Jack Quinlan to write a song for her movie, despite not speaking to him for years. She turns to cinematographer Dan for help, leading to a trip back to dans home town, she's forced to face her past and find something genuine

I do think they fell in love pretty quickly, it was more insta-lovey than some of her other books which have been 5 stars for me, which is why I've given this a 4 star!

I love how Annabelle always creates such lovely female friendships too, and this book did not disappoint on this front. I loved Clem so much.

I for sure need to watch the notebook after reading this! ..

Jane Jackson is a Hollywood studio executive, desperately trying to get her first project greenlit by pompous cinematographer and one-time crush, Dan Finnegan. She is also trying to shake everyone's memory of 'Poor Janey Jakes' and her adolescence as the punch line on America's popular sitcom. To get her project greenlit, she tells a little fib, promising to have popstar, Jack Quinlan, who she knew long ago, write a song for the movie. And the adventures begin.

This was a fun and mostly lighthearted read and I enjoyed the interactions with Jane and Dan. While part of the story was something I anticipated, it was another fabulous novel by the author, who has become one of my favourites.

Thanks so much to NetGalley and the publisher for the gifted review copy.

A fantastic, fun, warm and smile-inducing romance read. This author was new to me and it took a little for me to get hooked but once it did, I was sold! The writing style was such a delight and some of the lines I'd re-read because they were so well written and gave all the feels. I stopped reading half way through to research this author and download all of their previous books. I'm 100% sold on any future releases and will be adding this author to my auto-buy author list.

Thank you to Netgalley, the author and publisher for a coy of this book. I have posted my review on Goodreads and will post to Amazon on release day.

I trust Annabel Monaghan to deliver heartbreaking yet heartwarming love stories. It’s a marvel that she manages to do this time and time again, and I will never tire of recommending her work.

In It’s A Love Story, Jane, a former child star known for playing the awkward sidekick, never thought she was leading lady material. But when she finally lands the perfect project to reignite her career, there’s just one catch: Dan, the cinematographer she can’t stand, is part of the team. He was the reason her last “big” project was scrapped, and to make things even more awkward, it all fell apart right before their first date which never happened. Now, in a strange twist of fate, they’re thrown together to make this new project a reality, and Jane is determined to make it work—despite all odds.

The tender delivery of Janey’s story—even beyond the romance she finds with Dan—is so well done. I adored how Monaghan tied in Janey’s experiences as a teenager navigating the loss of her father and the first stirrings of big feelings for a boy. The depth of the characters, the chemistry of our main characters, the pacing of the story, and the seamless way everything unfolded were beautifully written.

As much as it is a great romance, it’s also an even more important story of Jane’s personal growth and her journey towards a better self. It felt both realistic and relatable. I shed a lot of tears reading it, and they were all worth it.

It’ll be out on 27 May 2025, and I can’t wait for you all to experience it!

Thank you, NetGalley and the publishers, for my digital ARC. 💙💛

P.S. This would translate so well to the screen!

Thank you so much for this incredible story that pierced my heart and left a lasting imprint.
4.5 stars!
I think the biggest heartbreak is that this book doesn't come out until May. More people need to read this novel that squeezed my heart.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. And let me tell you exactly why.

The female lead, Jane, literally has the same weirdly constructed brain that I have. You know how you take something simple you see, then create a whole scenario in your head of how that thing came to be, and it couldn't be further from the truth? Exactly.

My heart broke every time she talked, or thought about herself. Feeling cared for, but not knowing if you matter hit a bit too close to home. Feeling like you're to blame for something that was out of your hands. Carrying something heavy in your heart for so long, your feel weighed down. Not having someone to hold it up with you.

Jane is trying to get her script out there, turning it into of the the big hit blockbusters. However, she's told she need something more appealing, or else it'll be a bust. She she decides that she'll ask this guy she sang with when she was fourteen, when she was a child actor and there song was a big. Only problem she lied about being in touch with him, and in come Dan.

Dan is hired to be the cinematographer for this hope-to-be film. They decide to do something reckless, and stay at Dan's family house to catch the the now famous singer at his concert and ambush him so he can work on there film.

But the book is much more than that. Yes, their jobs play a pivotal role, But I believe that their relationship, Jane trying to organize the mess that are her feelings, and discussion of finding yourself take the spotlight.

Annabel Monaghan writes emotions as if they are physical things, manipulating and weaving the burst of light, dark and everything between that sparks inside Dan and Jane.

"A good cry is a lot like a good laugh, I realize. It starts as your head connects to something in your heart and just sort of takes over."

See what I mean?!!

This story is proof that love doesn't have to be big, bold, and in your face. It's in the simple things. Asking if you're okay. Not leaving your side in a group of new people. Knowing when to give space. Reading their thoughts through their eyes. Supporting you even in the silly things. That's what love truly means.

Key takeaways

- amazing representation of emotions
- ‘love doesn’t have to be grand’ mindset
- enjoying the small moments





https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/7079077760

I was super excited when I was approved for this one, I've seen so many glowing reviews of Annabel Monaghan's other work I was super hyped to finally try one!

I found it to be a slow starter, I didn't particularly care for Jane or Dan thinking that their rivalry was immature and it made them all the more unlikeable. I'm so glad that I decided to push through! Once we had made it to the forced proximity excitement I was all in, Dan's family were a beautiful cast of complimentary characters and their budding romance in Long Island had me dreaming of summer, it was pure escapism ☀️

I found that the characters are wonderfully developed for the length of the novel but I think that it could have been a little more drawn out to make the romance more realistic.

Whilst I'm not super into fame in my books, the ways it was used to show Jane's emotional difficulties and as mostly a sort of background idea was a nice touch. I absolutely hated Jack Quinlan and his uncle which only reinforces my dislike of fame as a book trope 😅

I loved the emotional ending of the book, Ive seen other reviews that don't understand but I really saw a potential version of myself in Jane's shoes, she feels big feelings but has polished and concealed herself so they aren't seen by others. I loved the way that Dan took care of Jane despite their rivalry and the way they spoke about how things could have been, I thought it was such a sweet way of exploring the what could have beens. I do think it was all a little bit fast for the ILYs when they've only been together for less than a week realistically and one of them hates the idea of insta-love (🙄) but I did love the passion and the intensity they supposedly feel, it was really conveyed on the page!

I will definitely try another Annabel Monaghan romance now 💌

4 stars

Thank you so much to Netgalley and Aria for my e-ARC ☺️

Former child actor Jane Jackson is now a creative executive fighting to get her dream script greenlit. To sell the studio on the project, she claims her former co-star and now-famous musician, Jack Quinlan, will write the perfect theme song. With reluctant help from Dan Finnegan, an infuriatingly charming cinematographer, Jane sets off to track Jack down. But as their week together unfolds, Jane finds herself drawn into Dan’s warm, chaotic family and questioning whether her real story isn’t about finding Jack but discovering herself

It’s a Love Story by Annabel Monaghan was a charming and heartfelt read with a fun premise centered around a former child star. While it’s definitely a love story, it also doubles as a journey of self-discovery for Jane as she learns to accept and love her true self. The representation of anxiety throughout the book was well done.

The Long Island setting was super cute and summery, and I absolutely loved how Jane was folded into the Finnegan family. Their dynamic was so sweet. Cormack and Jane’s relationship was adorable, and the brothers’ ribbing felt so authentic to real sibling relationships. A small nitpick: naming one of the sons Finn Finnegan and having twins named AiDAN and DAN was a bit odd and distracting?

I really enjoyed the banter between Jane and Dan. Their witty exchanges made their growing connection even more fun to read, and their chemistry felt natural. I also loved how their week together kept shifting focus from finding Jack to simply spending time with each other. However, I do have a pet peeve when characters fall in love in just a week, so that element felt a little rushed to me.

Jane’s emotional journey was compelling, even when it was hard to watch her lash out because of her own pain. It’s relatable to see someone behave that way, but it’s also one of those books where you can’t help but think, "She really should have been in therapy for years." But it was nice to see her learn to be herself and not some character that she thought other people wanted her to be.

This was a sweet and engaging story with plenty of heart, humor, and a dash of self-discovery. An excellent Summer read for fans of contemporary romance!

Could this be another auto-buy author for me?

Thank you Aria and Aries as well as NetGalley for giving me this ARC to review.

Jane Jackson may be rearing for a True Love Story to be given the green light as a Creative Executive at her job Clearwater Studios, but there’s nothing true about her ways to achieve this. Faking it until she could make it would have been easy if she could just hide in her closet and eat sweets like normal, but when a chance at succeeding in making a True Love Story big, Jane has to spend a week with her one-time crush and pompous cinematographer. Yet when art starts to imitate life, it is possible that Jane must face her own truth and question the longevity of her comfort of living within facades.

Jane is the most unique characters I’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting and I loved her awkwardness and bluntness from the get go. It was my first time reading Annabel Monaghan but it definitely will not be my last. The plot was an easy going, summer read. There are many characters you believe to be real, flaws and all, who you fall in love with. And the writing was reflective and beautiful. I would definitely recommend.

If you’re looking for the sweetest cozy romance read or a read to take for your summer/spring picnic or beach outing, then this one’s for you!

This is the kind of romance that slowly sneaks up on you and you don’t know you’re in it until you are ALL IN. The kind that grows and is found in the beauty of all the flawed, quirky, ‘figuring yourself out’ moments.

Dan and the honest and genuine way he carries himself grew on me & I felt for Jane so much in this! I just wanted to wrap her up in a hug and tell her how wonderful she is 🥹 I connect so much with big families in stories because of mine and I loved the big family in this one! The chaos, love, laughter and different personalities warmed my heart.

This was my first read by Annabel Monaghan and she truly wrote in the most romantic, cutesy but realistic scenes! I can’t wait to read more.

A massive thank you to Netgalley and Aria & Aries for the eARC!

This book is a delightful blend of humor, romance, and self-discovery, proving that love and life rarely follows a script. With laugh-out-loud moments and an unexpected emotional depth, the novel captivates you with its fresh take on romance and second chances.

Jane’s self-deprecating wit makes her an instantly relatable and her internal monologue feels like a conversation with a friend. The romantic tension between Jane and Dan is electric, built on quick banter, mutual irritation and a growing respect. Dan’s character is down-to-earth, perceptive and unafraid to challenge Jane. The pacing is perfect, with a cute mix of funny moments, heartfelt revelations and romantic beats. The Long Island setting adds a cozy, nostalgic backdrop to the plot.

It’s a Love Story reminds you that love, whether romantic, platonic, or self-directed, is messy, unpredictable and wonderfully transformative. If you’re looking for endearing characters, sharp dialogue, and heartfelt story, this book is for you!

𝙩𝙧𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙨 :
• enemies to lovers
• forced proximity
• fake it till you make it
• opposites attract
• grumpy x sunshine
• slow burn

Thank you Annabel Monaghan, Aria & Aries & NetGalley for an e-ARC copy.

This was rom com perfection. Workplace enemies to lovers, found family, second chance romance, oh and my favourite - one bedroom.

You know that scene when Ben takes Andie home to meet his family in How To Lose A Guy In 10 Days? That is this book. It gives you those same vibes, that same feeling. His big family, open arms excepting this perfect girl, everyone in the room watching two unsuspecting characters fall in love.

Jane and Dan have incredible chemistry. They jump out at you immediately and you’ll be laughing straight away. Dan is everything that infuriates Jane most - especially his man bun. He’s about to ruin her chance at getting her perfect script turned into a movie. This book will take you on such a rollercoaster. You’ll be laughing, crying, swooning, hand on heart just having the time of your life. You won’t be able to put this down.

Such a feel good book and a great reminder that love isn’t straight forward. It has no rules, it’s messy. But when you find it, be brave enough to go for it!

Thank you NetGalley and thank you Annabel. The perfect summer read!

A beautifully touching romance that I immediately connected with. From the start, I was rooting for Jane and hoping for her happy ending. Jane struggles with relationships—not because of the men, but because of the emotional walls she’s built. These walls seem impossible to break, until Dan comes into the picture.

Their charming meet-cute quickly shifts when they’re forced to work together to save their jobs. The chemistry between them is undeniable, and I loved watching their relationship develop. The slow-burn tension, the subtle glances, and Jane's witty narration made for a truly satisfying read. While Jane’s self-sabotaging tendencies add some humour, they also made her a deeply relatable character.

I loved everything about this book—the characters, the setting, and even meeting Dan’s family. It's a Love Story is a heartwarming, beautifully crafted romance, and I highly recommend it.

Thank you to Net Galley and Aria & Aries for the ARC in exchange for this honest review. This is my second book by Annabel Monaghan, and I can't wait for more.

Annabel Monaghan has become a must read author for me since I read ‘Nora goes off script’ so I was very excited to receive an ARC of her latest ‘It’s a Love Story’. I have to admit that the premise and start of the story didn’t sell this one to me: Jane is a former child star known for her geeky character in a kids TV show. She now develops movie scripts in LA. Dan is a cinematographer who has openly criticised her ideas. They have to work together to try and get a script they both love get made. This involves a trip to Long Island to track down a singer they want for the soundtrack who Jane knew and has history with from when she was a child star. Notwithstanding this, a few chapters in I knew I wouldn’t be putting this book down and finished it in one sitting. It has gorgeous locations, great family dynamics and sizzling chemistry. Whilst not being my favourite from Annabel Monaghan, it is a satisfying, compelling and fun read.

This book has easily become another favorite of mine, and honestly, I’m not even surprised. It had my least favorite trope—insta-love—but Annabel managed to write something so beautiful that I didn’t even care. All I wanted was to see Jane finally embrace herself, both the good and the "bad." Dan and Jane’s love was so quiet and subtle, but it hit me so hard. There were moments between them that actually made me tear up.

My favorite part was definitely Jane’s interactions with Dan’s family. Watching her slowly come out of her shell and learn to see that even the not-so-perfect parts of herself are lovable was so emotional. I don’t even know how many times I cried while reading this. May this kind of love find me and kidnap me.

That being said, I think this could’ve been a five-star read if the characters were a bit younger. It felt a little unrealistic that Jane, in her 30s, had all this time to confront her past and just…didn’t. I also wish Jane and Dan had more than a week to get to know each other. But honestly, that part didn’t bother me too much because the found family dynamic was so beautifully done.

If I could've asked for one thing though, it would’ve been to see Jane stand up to Jack for once. I get it—she has trauma and a lot to work through—but she’s also in her 30s, and it would’ve been so satisfying to watch her call him out for being such a jerk.

Even with all that, this book left me feeling so much. I’ll probably be thinking about it for a long time.

This book easily gets 5 stars! I loved it! ✨💛

It was so hard to put this book down, it felt like a warm hug. If you're looking for the perfect read for spring & summer 🌼, this is it. I could read hundreds of books about these characters.
Dan with his love for "the quiet" (I totally get that) and Jane, who is quite an overthinker (again, totally get it) and kind of awkward in some situations. There should be a movie about this couple, so cute! It had me swooning and giggling. I also loved the family aspect in the book (<3 Dan's family).

Although it's a cosy romance, there are a few life lessons to think about. I will definitely buy a physical copy when the book comes out. It was my first book by Annabel Monaghan but I will for sure check out her other novels.

Thank you so much Netgalley for the ARC ♡

In this story we follow Jane a film producer whose latest work seems promising and could save her from being fired after many rejections from her company. However one of the producers is Dan who since day one has been extremely critical of all her previous projects. When Jane struggles to get a green light, she claims to still be in touch with Jack, one of the biggest pop stars. However that is a lie and to try to convince him to work with her, she travels to Long Island alongside Dan since his brother is working on the set of one of Jack’s concerts. While spending the week at Dan’s she struggles to keep up her lie, will they be able to get Jack on board of their project?

This is my first book by this author and I have to say that it was an amazing read. The writing was very easy to read and the setting was perfect for the summer. I liked Jane a lot and I found her very relatable, Dan was an absolute sweetheart, I’m obsessed. The love story was super comforting and calm, which makes so much sense for the two MCs. This was such a fun and heartwarming rom-com, that I would recommend to everyone. Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for an e-arc copy in exchange for an honest review.

I started reading this book feeling a little wary - because well, I loved "Nora Goes Off Script" and then I didn't love the next two books too much, but no worries guys, I was immediately in. It was like "Nora" - an absolutely perfect love story.

The strength lies in the characters and the writing style. Annabel Monaghan can write the most beautiful things about falling in love without them feeling too meh and she can brilliantly describe all the emotions, both positive and negative. This writing is like a big hug, enveloping you immediately. There are a lot of words - the descriptions and the inner monologues are long and very detailed and sometimes I wished they were shorter and straigh to the point, but that's the way the book is. Not many dialogues, but the banter is then brilliant and light - hearted and feels genuine.
The characters were, in my opinion, very well done. Both the main ones as the background ones, especially the Mob - Dan's family. My kind of family - full of chaos but you know where you belong. Our mian character, Jane, goes on a journey of finding herself and I loved how she embraced her true - self and left her comfort zones.
And you know that there is going to be some kind of conflict, there must be some kind of conflict, right, but this time I was literally praying for no conflict at all, because the two characters worked so, so well together.

The book has something magic in it, something that will pull you immediately in and you won't want to stop reading. It's true and beautiful and it's so much more than just a romance, as the author touches upon some deeper issues. Loved it!

Well, this was an amazing summer romance! It's a love story was my first time reading the author and I can already tell that I want to read all of her backlist.
Enemies to lovers will always be a superior trope to me and mixed with forced proximity only makes it even better.
This was also the type of story that seems much more fluffy when in reality deals with very heavy and deep topics, but what I discovered is that Annabel has an amazing balance between the cute and not so cute aspects keeping it emotional but also funny and light.
Now, the romance!!!! Not spicy at all but with all the feels!!!! The chemistry, the tension, the slow burn. Pure perfection! There's also a lot of banter between the characters, and witty conversations and I specially loved the side characters, the family interactions and the way that they support each other through everything.
I strongly believe that if you love feel good stories, with complicated emotional depth, Abby Jimenez style, this is the perfect book for you! I can't wait to see what else has the author in storage.

I have loved every book by Annabel Monaghan so I had high expectations going into this one, and it really lived up to them.

While I thought the beginning was a bit rushed, I soon became completely invested in Jane and Dan as individuals and as a couple. They are both very real and relatable characters, and I was rooting for both their individual character development and their romantic development. You can really see how they both grow throughout the book, and how deeply they care for each other. I wasn't completely keen on the insta-love of it, but with how much growth they showed, I didn't mind in the end.

Annabel Monaghan's books always feel like more than a romance and this one was no exception. The emotions that are described feel real and raw, and I could fully connect to the characters and what they were going through. However, I wasn't completely invested in the Jack aspect of the storyline, and I do wish that we had seen Jane stand up for herself more in this regard. With all the growth she was showing, it would have been good to see.

Overall, though, this is a moving and realistic love story packed with emotion.

Annabel Monaghan returns with another comforting, escapist romance, this time set on the fringes of the film world. Her books are easy to read but written with a lightness of touch and sharp sense of humour that isn't always present in this genre. I think she's great.

Another great read by Annabel Monaghan! I love how her characters always seem more mature than many you read in romance novels, however I do think these characters were slightly younger than her previous books I’ve read. I loved the mental health rep and wanted to wrap Jane in hug and at the same time shake her so she would wake up and accept that love exists and she’s worth it! I enjoyed the small town feel on Long Island. I wasn’t quite as in love with these characters as our MC’s of Annabel’s but I still thoroughly enjoyed this one and 100% recommend it. Unfortunately the timing of when I read this book was straight after a 6 star read for me, so it had a lot to live up to. While I didn’t get the 5 star feels I really did love it and highlighted so many passages with Annabel’s beautiful way of writing and capturing thoughts and emotions. 4.25 stars for me!

Feeling very lucky I was approved an arc copy of this book. This story has me craving summer like right now. It follows Jane Jackson, former child actor turned film executor and cinematographer and rival- Dan Finnegan. When Jane gets her hands on a script she has her heart set on making, she is determined to get it made, even if it means working with rival Dan and tracking down her former teenage fling- Jack.

I loved the vibe and setting that this book gave. The two main characters biking to the beach, laying in the sunshine, sitting on the swing outside the house just felt so wholesome and cosy summer to me. I am itching for that feeling! I also adored Dan’s family and feeling they gave me when reading. I honestly felt what Jane was feeling when she was spending time with them.

Jane is a very reserved character in the sense of she thinks through every small detail of her life when we really find out she is holding on to some pretty big trauma. I enjoyed seeing her opening up and letting down her barriers.

This is my first Annabel Monaghan book but will definitely be adding her others to my TBR. Thank you Netgalley and Penguin Group Putnam for sharing this digital arc with me in exchange for my honest review.

A feel good, sweet, realistic romance!
Overall feeling with my first Annabel Monaghan book was CUTE! gives all romantic vibes, you can feel them falling in love! i adored all the summer feeling movie moments so easy to get invested in their love story.

I absolutely loved the big family dynamic, the teasing and banter but ultimately feeling all the love between them, so wholesome.Janes growing relationships with Dans family had me, love a found family trope.

"love happens over breakfast"
"you bring your real self to breakfast" i loved the meaning behind these quotes! id love to see Reenie & Cormacks love story🥹

Thankyou Netgalley and Aria & Aries for this arc all opinions are my own.
-adelereadsromance

i’d like to be the person who could take all of your sad things and make them happy. like i’d hunt down each one and turn it over.”
“i don’t think anyone’s that person for anyone,” i say.
“i don’t think so either.but i’d like to be that person for you.”

oh annabel monagan’s soooo back to us and i can say this because the first time i received this book was at the end of 24’ and when i started reading jane’s story i was simply done for it because well… I TRULY FELT SEEN thanks to annabel’s storytelling but i wasn’t surprised if i have to be honest because since i started reading her books she became quickly one of my favourite authors and when i requested it’s a love story i knew i could have trusted her and she really surprised me by outdoing herself!

as i said before i felt seen while reading jane’s and dan’s feelings because i could relate to both characters… why?because annabel’s stories and protagonists are ALWAYS so raw, real and relatable hence for this it’s very easy and unique to empathize with them and being captured in her stories :’)

jane’s an ex child actor but now she’s in LA as a executive creative at a film studio and she has a good feeling about a script but she needs help from dan aka the director of photography who squashed her first film deal…and so u can imagine her feelings about working with him right? well! prepare yourself to go to long island because these 2 will go there to find a famous singer from jane’s past and guess what’s also the island where dan’s parents will celebrate their anniversary so what are the odds? 😁

dan and jane i wish i could write all the emotions i felt while reading about these 2 characters separately and them as a couple because besides me relating to them they were everything… THE TENSION? THE INTIMACY OF THEIR MOMENTS? THE JEALOUSY? THE HUMOR? THEIR DIALOGUES STOP IT THIS IS REAL LOVE TO ME!!

from the vibes her books can seem just romcoms but in the end these stories aren’t simple romcoms because they are even more trust me because with this book i couldn’t stop thinking about some specific quotes or parts of the stories and well i ended up rereading it this month so when i say that i truly loved this book now u can understand the level of love i’m talking about and if u know u know that this feelings’s rare for me like i’ve already reread an arc ? me ? yes! no but realistically speaking i’m begging to have the physical copy asap because of the need to annotate my fav lines and reread!!

a lot of thanks to netgalley and to aries fiction for sending me the e-arc of this book in exchange for my honest review!

i really enjoyed this book!

i absolutely LOVE jane. i also love how we get to hear her backstory and find out why she is the way she is.

this book is a classic “enemies to lovers” but i really enjoyed that the enemy part didn’t last forever and that jane and dan came together naturally.

i’d definitely reread this!

”You live your whole life so that you can be surrounded by too many people in too small of a room and tell the story of how it all happened.”

There are books that feel like a hug, and this was one of them.

When Jane and Dan first met, they felt an instant connection. But then an artistic disagreement occurred, a fight followed, and things between them soured.

Now, they are enthusiastic about the same idea and must work together to make it happen. Working together entails chasing a celebrity, staying at Dan’s parents' place in Long Island, and hanging out with his family.

I’ve said this before, and I’ll probably say it again: I love books about big families. There’s something magical about them—life is rarely messy in book families, the parents are wise, understanding, and supportive, and so are the siblings. They are always there to make you feel unconditionally loved and accepted. What’s more important, these families give us so many book boyfriends!

Jane and Dan were adorable together. Dan had this unique approach to life; he knew what was important and did his own thing regardless of what the world had to say about it. I loved his quiet confidence and his big heart. Jane had issues, which unfortunately caused the third-act drama, but I’m just going to pretend it didn’t happen. I’m so sick of third-act breakups, I’ll just pretend they don’t exist. That’s my new strategy.


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

Annabel Monaghan has fast become one of my favourite authors and I loved this book so much. Monaghan writes the most perfect settings and this one is no exception - possibly even better than usual because there’s both Long Island and LA. But my favourite part of It’s A Love Story was Dan’s fabulous big family. I could have happily hung out in that farmhouse forever. A gorgeous book.