This is a tricky one to rate because there were aspects that I really liked but it just somehow didn't all come together in a way that totally worked for me. It also didn't help that I had hyped it up to myself because I love the cover and the You've Got Mail of it all.

What worked: Both of the main characters were so lovely and relatable and I was rooting for them not only to get together but to prosper in their careers and other relationships. I also think they both showed emotional maturity and growth in a way that I don't always see reflected in romance.

The MMC, Nick, has a lot of avoidant tendencies due to his traumatic upbringing and his whole deal is she deserves better, I'm not good enough for her, etc., etc.. But he actually recognizes (with the help of his found family 🥹) that this is unhealthy, and not only uses his words to express this to the FMC, Lily, but shows with his actions that he's committed to trying to be the kind of partner she needs. And Lily is smart and aware enough to recognize that, while she's in love with this man, it's not fair for her to put herself out there for someone that can't or won't risk being emotionally vulnerable enough to make a true commitment. Part of her journey is also about learning to stand up for herself in her personal and professional relationships, which I loved for her!

I also really loved the friendship between Nick and his old college roommate and now literary agent, Marcus. The unconditional love and support between those two was absolutely beautiful and almost made me cry.

What didn't work (for me): Lily's overbearing family constantly being in her business honestly stressed me the fuck out. Which was obviously the point, but like, it worked a little too well, I guess? 😅 The sex scenes also felt very rushed and vague; not quite fade-to-black, but still comparatively chaste, to the point that I think it would have worked better for them to just be left out. I know some readers won't care much about that, but there it is.

I doubt I'll read the next book in this series about Lily's sister, but I would otherwise consider reading more adult romance from this author in the future.