Talk Bookish to Me

Bromley’s appealing debut sees a New York City romance novelist thrown back together with a hated ex. Kara Sullivan has writer’s block in the face of an urgent book deadline, but as maid of honor for her friend’s upcoming wedding, she has no time to focus on writing anyway. Then Ryan Thompson, the man who broke her heart in college, turns up as a groomsman. After sparring with the infuriating but charming Ryan at a pre-wedding party, Kara’s suddenly able to work on her historical romance again. Surely she’s not tempting fate by succumbing to his charm a few more times in the interest of finishing her book on time. When circumstances leave Ryan and his dog without a place to stay in the city, Kara invites them to crash with her—all in the interest of her overdue manuscript, of course. But as their old flame reignites, they both wonder if a fresh start is possible. Excerpts of Kara’s historical romance often interrupt the story, a cute conceit that grows tedious, and the conflict turns on fidelity issues which may disappoint some readers. Still, Bromley’s take on the enemies-to-lovers trope is fun, and Ryan’s lovable pup adds heart. The result is a pleasant if imperfect rom-com. [em]Agent: Kevan Lyon, Marsal Lyon Literary. (May) [/em]