Keep This Off the Record

In this clever debut, a queer retelling of Much Ado About Nothing, Joy expertly echoes one of the most classic enemies-to-lovers stories of all time, right down to overheard conversations, meddling friends, and mistaken identities. When therapist Abby Meyer and TV journalist Freya Jonsson run into one another at their 15th high school reunion, the encounter reignites their teenage feud, resulting in tossed drinks and hurt feelings. Unfortunately, Abby’s best friend Naomi falls for Freya’s associate producer Will, forcing the bitter enemies to coexist as their friend groups merge. Their tenuous truce is tested time and again, until their friends and families wonder if maybe their animosity belies a different kind of heat. Will, Naomi, and friends hatch a plan to bring Abby and Freya together by planting the idea of the other having feelings for them in each of their heads. But the course of true love never runs smoothly, especially after Naomi’s obsessive ex-husband tries to destroy her budding relationship, fracturing the group once more. Colorful characters, wacky hijinks, and some gratifying sex scenes once the women give in to their mutual attraction make the pages fly. Readers will delight in watching these sparring hearts lay down their weapons. (Jan.)