Muses. I never really thought about writers needing a muse, however this was the second romance I read this month in which the author had writer’s block. In both Maggie Finds Her Muse by Dee Ernst, and now Kate Bromley’s Talk Bookish to Me, the author found inspiration when she fell in lust with a man. That trope is the only thing the two romances have in common, fortunately. Kate Bromley’s debut rom-com is just as fresh and entertaining as Ernst’s book was. I’m looking forward to more from Bromley.

Kara Sullivan loves her life in New York City. She has two wonderful friends, and she’s only a short distance for Sunday dinner at her mother’s. She’s a successful romance writer who has written seven books in five years. She’s stuck, though, with her latest historical romance. She’s nearing deadline, but she’s still leaving for six months in Italy soon. First, though, she’s maid of honor for the wedding of her best friend, Cristina.

Kara is bubbling over with joy for Cristina and Jason at the pre-wedding party. But, that joy is smashed, right along with her champagne glass, when she comes face-to-face with Ryan Thompson at the party. Ryan might be one of Jason’s childhood friends, but he was also Kara’s first love, first lover, and the one who broke her heart when they were in college. Ten years later, their snarky remarks can still heat up the room. And, Ryan still has the ability to make Kara hate him and want him at the same time. He also has the ability to jumpstart her writing.

Kara’s friend Maggie has just the way to help with that writing. She makes a list of ways Kara can keep Ryan interested long enough to finish her book. That’s before Kara learns Ryan has been kicked out of his hotel because of his bulldog, Duke. In a rash moment, she offers the two of them the chance to crash on her couch until after the wedding. Despite their history, and Kara’s anger at Ryan, she falls for Duke.

Although I don’t read a lot of romances, this one felt fresh. Talk Bookish to Me features a woman who is passionate about her profession. Kara is a popular Bookstagrammer. She talks about sub-genres and tropes of romance with excitement and expertise. But, it’s that trope about secrets between the hero and heroine that catches Kara and Ryan unprepared. With Kara’s lack of trust in people, it could spell disaster.

It’s hard to believe Talk Bookish to Me is a debut. It’s polished with great characters, from Kara and Ryan to her friends. The conversations are witty. And, the reenactment of one of Kara’s books is perfect. Bromley’s characters are sympathetic, and just right for this rom-com. I smiled the entire time I read the book. As I said, I’ll watch for more from her, and I wish her good luck.

Kate Bromley’s website is http://www.katebromley.com

Talk Bookish to Me by Kate Bromley. Graydon House, 2021. ISBN 9781525806438 (paperback), 320p.

FTC Full Disclosure – The publisher sent me a copy of the book, hoping I would review it.