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Unnecessary Drama
From the award-winning author of It Sounded Better in My Head comes a deliciously entertaining enemies-to-lovers romantic comedy about two high school nemeses who end up sharing a house together their first year of college
Eighteen-year-old Brooke is the kind of friend who not only remembers everyone’s birthdays, but also organizes the group present, pays for it, and politely chases others for their share. She’s the helper, the doer, the maker-of spreadsheets. She’s the responsible one who always follows the rules―and she plans to keep it that way during her first year of college.
Her student housing only has one "no unnecessary drama." Which means no fights, tension, or romance between roommates. When one of them turns out to be Jesse, her high-school nemesis, Brooke is determined she can handle it. They’ll simply silently endure living together and stay out of each other’s way. But it turns out Jesse isn’t so easy to ignore.
With Unnecessary Drama , Nina Kenwood perfectly captures the experience of leaving home for the first time, dealing with the unexpected complications of life, and somehow finding exactly what you need.
Eighteen-year-old Brooke is the kind of friend who not only remembers everyone’s birthdays, but also organizes the group present, pays for it, and politely chases others for their share. She’s the helper, the doer, the maker-of spreadsheets. She’s the responsible one who always follows the rules―and she plans to keep it that way during her first year of college.
Her student housing only has one "no unnecessary drama." Which means no fights, tension, or romance between roommates. When one of them turns out to be Jesse, her high-school nemesis, Brooke is determined she can handle it. They’ll simply silently endure living together and stay out of each other’s way. But it turns out Jesse isn’t so easy to ignore.
With Unnecessary Drama , Nina Kenwood perfectly captures the experience of leaving home for the first time, dealing with the unexpected complications of life, and somehow finding exactly what you need.
304 pages, Paperback
First published October 5, 2022
About the author
Nina Kenwood
3 books407 followersNina Kenwood is the author of The Wedding Forecast, Unnecessary Drama, and It Sounded Better In My Head.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 863 reviews
September 29, 2022
3.5 rounded up. A cute, entertaining, light read. Not as impactful as It Sounded Better in my Head but it still dealt with real New Adult and YA issues and misunderstandings in a sensitive, believable way. Sometimes you can escape your past, but more often than not it catches up with you, and only by facing it head on could these characters achieve closure and grow stronger as a result. The characterisations were spot on, all acted and behaved like new adults. This author always impresses me, and I will be there to read whatever she writes next.
October 7, 2022
Unnecessary Drama is the second novel by Australian author, Nina Kenwood. Eighteen-year-old Brooke Williams has left her hometown to attend university in Melbourne. She’s a little anxious about the housemates she’ll be sharing with, but she’s super-organised and is confident they can establish a set of rules to ensure a harmonious existence (she can print and laminate them, have them spiral bound).
The house turns out to be a bit dilapidated, but she can cope with that, and she’s sure she and Harper will soon be firm friends, but their other housemate is a shock: unknown Jeremy turns out to be Jesse, her close friend at high school until an unforgivably humiliating incident in Year Eight that broke their bond. But she refuses to be driven out by his presence: they’ll just have to agree to quietly ignore one another.
That sort of works for a while, but it’s not easy to be barely civil to someone after they drive you to A&E and wait with you for hours: it seems Jesse has actually turned into quite a nice guy. And then there’s the situation in a pub with the last ex-boyfriend that requires a fake boyfriend to save face: Jesse volunteers, and maybe they’re not quite acting?
Kenwood’s protagonist is instantly loveable for her earnest good intentions and her guilelessness. The gradual revelation of her back story explains why she sees herself as the boring, responsible protector to her older sister, the wild reckless fun one, and why she doesn’t drink: “Being drunk would be messy, dangerous, out of control. My worst self might come out.”
She recognises that “I’m uptight, I’m controlling, I’m anxious, I worry about things too much, I’m not “fun”, although she’s probably way too hard on herself, but “being in control of myself is the most important factor to me feeling okay.” Brooke’s perspective is sometimes uniquely insightful: “And when you’re holding a party, and you need to invite people to said party and be sure they actually show up in person, it’s like a friendship exam.”
Brooke’s inner monologue and behaviour will resonate with any reader who admits to a tendency towards OCD even as it offers plenty of laugh-out-loud moments: the blind-date scene is absolutely hilarious. Reading this novel in the quiet carriage on public transport should probably be avoided; ditto eating or drinking whilst reading.
Readers in the mood for a funny feel-good Aussie romance that might also require the tissues, but promises a happy ending, will find that Kenwood’s second novel ticks all the boxes. Very entertaining!
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Text Publishing.
The house turns out to be a bit dilapidated, but she can cope with that, and she’s sure she and Harper will soon be firm friends, but their other housemate is a shock: unknown Jeremy turns out to be Jesse, her close friend at high school until an unforgivably humiliating incident in Year Eight that broke their bond. But she refuses to be driven out by his presence: they’ll just have to agree to quietly ignore one another.
That sort of works for a while, but it’s not easy to be barely civil to someone after they drive you to A&E and wait with you for hours: it seems Jesse has actually turned into quite a nice guy. And then there’s the situation in a pub with the last ex-boyfriend that requires a fake boyfriend to save face: Jesse volunteers, and maybe they’re not quite acting?
Kenwood’s protagonist is instantly loveable for her earnest good intentions and her guilelessness. The gradual revelation of her back story explains why she sees herself as the boring, responsible protector to her older sister, the wild reckless fun one, and why she doesn’t drink: “Being drunk would be messy, dangerous, out of control. My worst self might come out.”
She recognises that “I’m uptight, I’m controlling, I’m anxious, I worry about things too much, I’m not “fun”, although she’s probably way too hard on herself, but “being in control of myself is the most important factor to me feeling okay.” Brooke’s perspective is sometimes uniquely insightful: “And when you’re holding a party, and you need to invite people to said party and be sure they actually show up in person, it’s like a friendship exam.”
Brooke’s inner monologue and behaviour will resonate with any reader who admits to a tendency towards OCD even as it offers plenty of laugh-out-loud moments: the blind-date scene is absolutely hilarious. Reading this novel in the quiet carriage on public transport should probably be avoided; ditto eating or drinking whilst reading.
Readers in the mood for a funny feel-good Aussie romance that might also require the tissues, but promises a happy ending, will find that Kenwood’s second novel ticks all the boxes. Very entertaining!
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Text Publishing.
June 26, 2022
This is the MOST ADORABLE BOOK I HAVE EVER READ. I cannot believe it doesn’t come out until October. Pre-order it right now – it’s the best present you will ever give yourself. We don’t get many new adult books any more (Summer Skin forever) and this one is perfection. It captures that starting uni, first sharehouse, awkward new friend making, moving away from family stage of life so beautifully. I completely imagined this book to be set in my first sharehouse (Bridge Street represent) and it made me nostalgic and warm and fuzzy for that period of my life. Kenwood is such a talented writer that she had big feelings bursting out of me. I also laughed loudly and with vigour SO MANY TIMES. This book is a gift. I immediately want to read it again. And again. And probably again.
September 28, 2022
If I was the same anxious, lost-over-my-future, wreck I was at 16, I would have ate this up.
Unfortunately, I am now a disenfranchised, anxious 24 year old who just wanted to yell at the protagonist ‘JUST TELL HIM HOW YOU FEEL AND GET OVER YOURSELF, LITERALLY NO ONE CARES AND IT ALL WORKS OUT’
cute read tho
Unfortunately, I am now a disenfranchised, anxious 24 year old who just wanted to yell at the protagonist ‘JUST TELL HIM HOW YOU FEEL AND GET OVER YOURSELF, LITERALLY NO ONE CARES AND IT ALL WORKS OUT’
cute read tho
February 15, 2024
•🪻Thoughts are not facts.🪻•
título: Dramas innecesarios
autor: Nina Kenwood
género: romance juvenil
año: 2022
puntuación: 3’5/5⭐️
•Narración y Protagonista. Al contar con una narración en primera persona es mucho más sencillo conectar emocionalmente con Brooke, cuya voz demuestra ser transparente, insegura y sobre todo muy autoexigente. Lo más cautivador de la narrativa es su realismo, no necesariamente por tener descripciones detalladas o palabras grandilocuentes, sino porque hay un reflejo perfecto del costumbrismo detrás de la recién conseguida independencia en la adultez joven. Cada uno de los personajes se sintió autentico, con ambiciones, un desarrollo decente y consecuencia en sus actos.
•Temas. Aunque parezca ser un cliché más en cuanto a la trama, es destacable los temas que son tocados a lo largo del libro y lo bien manejados que están, como el alcoholismo, el acoso escolar, las inseguridades, la ansiedad, los trastornos obsesivos compulsivos, el trauma familiar y generacional, entre muchos otros, que fueron tocados y profundizados con consciencia, cuidado y realismo. Disfruté de leer conflictos comunes en la adolescencia.
•Final. Si pudiera describirlo con una palabra esa sería precioso y predecible. A veces necesito una dosis reconfortante en la literatura y obtuve una muy alta tras terminar este libro. Fue adorable, eso es lo único que necesitan saber.
🪻 c o n c l u s i ó n 🪻
No suelo leer este tipo de novelas y sin embargo me la pasé tan bien leyendo “Dramas innecesarios”. Se leyó prácticamente solo, las páginas volaban entre mis manos, no lo pude soltar en ningún momento y una vez lo acabé en cuestión de un par de días me sentí abrazada por la lectura otra vez. Sé que lo leí en el momento perfecto y me alegro que así haya sido. Altamente recomendado a mis chicas que adoran los romances adorables con desarrollos progresivos, lentos y repleto de momentos cardiacos, disfrutarán esta lectura con locura.
~Alaska🍃
título: Dramas innecesarios
autor: Nina Kenwood
género: romance juvenil
año: 2022
puntuación: 3’5/5⭐️
•Narración y Protagonista. Al contar con una narración en primera persona es mucho más sencillo conectar emocionalmente con Brooke, cuya voz demuestra ser transparente, insegura y sobre todo muy autoexigente. Lo más cautivador de la narrativa es su realismo, no necesariamente por tener descripciones detalladas o palabras grandilocuentes, sino porque hay un reflejo perfecto del costumbrismo detrás de la recién conseguida independencia en la adultez joven. Cada uno de los personajes se sintió autentico, con ambiciones, un desarrollo decente y consecuencia en sus actos.
•Temas. Aunque parezca ser un cliché más en cuanto a la trama, es destacable los temas que son tocados a lo largo del libro y lo bien manejados que están, como el alcoholismo, el acoso escolar, las inseguridades, la ansiedad, los trastornos obsesivos compulsivos, el trauma familiar y generacional, entre muchos otros, que fueron tocados y profundizados con consciencia, cuidado y realismo. Disfruté de leer conflictos comunes en la adolescencia.
•Final. Si pudiera describirlo con una palabra esa sería precioso y predecible. A veces necesito una dosis reconfortante en la literatura y obtuve una muy alta tras terminar este libro. Fue adorable, eso es lo único que necesitan saber.
🪻 c o n c l u s i ó n 🪻
No suelo leer este tipo de novelas y sin embargo me la pasé tan bien leyendo “Dramas innecesarios”. Se leyó prácticamente solo, las páginas volaban entre mis manos, no lo pude soltar en ningún momento y una vez lo acabé en cuestión de un par de días me sentí abrazada por la lectura otra vez. Sé que lo leí en el momento perfecto y me alegro que así haya sido. Altamente recomendado a mis chicas que adoran los romances adorables con desarrollos progresivos, lentos y repleto de momentos cardiacos, disfrutarán esta lectura con locura.
~Alaska🍃
July 21, 2023
Thank you to Macmillan for the audio ARC! This was such an easy listen and I had a blast.
I’m not usually a romance person but I devoured this.
It was so cute and happy. Brooke was a (mostly) likeable main character and her planning, caretaking, and anxiety were so relatable for me. Her little anxiety spirals were so realistic!
The relationships were nice - I love seeing good friendships and good sibling relationships! The side characters felt developed and it was easy to keep track of them and their separate personalities. The main relationship was cute and I liked their dynamic. I think the ending was solid!
Some parts of this gave me the WORST secondhand embarrassment omfg. And some parts were a little too cheesy or over the top for me - but I had a really good time with this book! A solid 4.25.
I’m not usually a romance person but I devoured this.
It was so cute and happy. Brooke was a (mostly) likeable main character and her planning, caretaking, and anxiety were so relatable for me. Her little anxiety spirals were so realistic!
The relationships were nice - I love seeing good friendships and good sibling relationships! The side characters felt developed and it was easy to keep track of them and their separate personalities. The main relationship was cute and I liked their dynamic. I think the ending was solid!
Some parts of this gave me the WORST secondhand embarrassment omfg. And some parts were a little too cheesy or over the top for me - but I had a really good time with this book! A solid 4.25.
April 15, 2024
3.25 stars.
An enjoyable and very quick read!
I read this author’s debut novel the year it came out and remember enjoying it. I’m looking forward to this one!
An enjoyable and very quick read!
I read this author’s debut novel the year it came out and remember enjoying it. I’m looking forward to this one!
October 8, 2022
i wanted to savor this book so badly but i couldn't stop reading and now it's 2:30 in the morning and i'm so GIDDY THIS WAS SO CUTE I LOVED
BROOKE IS SO ME-CODED IT ACTUALLY HURTS WHAT THE HELL
also thank you nina kenwood for making us adult children of alcoholics feel seen!!! like for real that was so nice to read :')
so so good!!!! will def reread while i wait for another!!!! nina kenwood has proven herself to be an auto-buy author FOR SURE!!!!
BROOKE IS SO ME-CODED IT ACTUALLY HURTS WHAT THE HELL
also thank you nina kenwood for making us adult children of alcoholics feel seen!!! like for real that was so nice to read :')
so so good!!!! will def reread while i wait for another!!!! nina kenwood has proven herself to be an auto-buy author FOR SURE!!!!
November 17, 2022
I was reading this book on the Tube one morning, and as I got off another woman got off with me and said, "I was reading over your shoulder - that looked like a good book, what's it called?"
I have to say, it's one of the nicest interactions I've ever had with a stranger, considering Londoners are not exactly known for outspoken friendliness. Anyway, that woman was broadly correct: it is a pretty good book, and a decent romcom, though there are definite rough edges.
18-year-old Brooke is the quintessential mum friend: she's always looking out for everyone else, keeps things tidy, and worries about making friends. Slouchy Jesse, on the other hand - her ex-best friend and now furious enemy - is a laid-back socialiser. Then they end up sharing a house for their first year of uni...
I'm a big fan of Australian authors, especially Australian YA authors, and Nina Kenwood is no exception to the fact that they're generally very good at crafting prose. The book flows nicely and is eminently readable. Brooke's character is one I suspect a lot of people will be able to relate to; her desperation to be liked and constant fears of rejection are very familiar to readers with social anxiety. Jesse is a little more bland, but he's miles better than the hero in Kenwood's debut novel, who lied to the heroine about how many girls he'd slept with and abandoned her at a party she didn't even want to attend.
The plot is kind of standard YA/NA stuff, straddling the lines between the genres. There's your tortured family history (Brooke's dad is an alcoholic); OW drama (Jesse hooks up with a girl before he and Brooke re-establish their friendship); self-discovery (Brooke learns how to make friends and what sort of creating writing she's good at); plus of course the enemies-to-lovers dynamic between Brooke and Jesse themselves. I won't spoil what made them stop being friends, but I do understand why Brooke held a grudge for years, while at the same time believing that Jesse is genuinely remorseful and successfully makes it up to her.
While this book doesn't reinvent the wheel when it comes to YA/NA romcoms, it's solidified Kenwood's place on my authors-to-read list.
I have to say, it's one of the nicest interactions I've ever had with a stranger, considering Londoners are not exactly known for outspoken friendliness. Anyway, that woman was broadly correct: it is a pretty good book, and a decent romcom, though there are definite rough edges.
18-year-old Brooke is the quintessential mum friend: she's always looking out for everyone else, keeps things tidy, and worries about making friends. Slouchy Jesse, on the other hand - her ex-best friend and now furious enemy - is a laid-back socialiser. Then they end up sharing a house for their first year of uni...
I'm a big fan of Australian authors, especially Australian YA authors, and Nina Kenwood is no exception to the fact that they're generally very good at crafting prose. The book flows nicely and is eminently readable. Brooke's character is one I suspect a lot of people will be able to relate to; her desperation to be liked and constant fears of rejection are very familiar to readers with social anxiety. Jesse is a little more bland, but he's miles better than the hero in Kenwood's debut novel, who lied to the heroine about how many girls he'd slept with and abandoned her at a party she didn't even want to attend.
The plot is kind of standard YA/NA stuff, straddling the lines between the genres. There's your tortured family history (Brooke's dad is an alcoholic); OW drama (Jesse hooks up with a girl before he and Brooke re-establish their friendship); self-discovery (Brooke learns how to make friends and what sort of creating writing she's good at); plus of course the enemies-to-lovers dynamic between Brooke and Jesse themselves. I won't spoil what made them stop being friends, but I do understand why Brooke held a grudge for years, while at the same time believing that Jesse is genuinely remorseful and successfully makes it up to her.
While this book doesn't reinvent the wheel when it comes to YA/NA romcoms, it's solidified Kenwood's place on my authors-to-read list.
December 16, 2022
Content warnings: anxiety and panic attacks, alcohol consumption, alcoholic parent, borderline-alcoholic sister, Brooke had an ovarian cyst burst (non graphic of that part, thankfully), emotional abuse, blood.
Rep: Brooke (main character) has pretty bad anxiety, and is white. Harper (side character) is sapphic, as is her girlfriend. Everyone else is white and hetero.
I went into this book not knowing much other than it was very hetero (I was not wrong) and that it was about a girl living with a boy housemate (also not wrong).
I figured they'd get together (also not wrong there lol).
A note - Brooke and her housemates are all 18, so this is upper young adult.
I wasn't expecting to laugh as much. There were so many moments of second hand embarrassment I felt for Brooke, and there were times I genuinely laughed at the funny stuff going on.
The anxiety spirals that Brooke went through regularly was absolutely relatable. I wanted to hug her a lot. She needs a good hug, that kid.
This was enjoyable, funny, and really easy to read. The audio is fantastic - thank you to my library for having this one!
3.5 stars
I talk about books at these places: Instagram / Twitter / TikTok / Blog
Rep: Brooke (main character) has pretty bad anxiety, and is white. Harper (side character) is sapphic, as is her girlfriend. Everyone else is white and hetero.
I went into this book not knowing much other than it was very hetero (I was not wrong) and that it was about a girl living with a boy housemate (also not wrong).
I figured they'd get together (also not wrong there lol).
A note - Brooke and her housemates are all 18, so this is upper young adult.
I wasn't expecting to laugh as much. There were so many moments of second hand embarrassment I felt for Brooke, and there were times I genuinely laughed at the funny stuff going on.
The anxiety spirals that Brooke went through regularly was absolutely relatable. I wanted to hug her a lot. She needs a good hug, that kid.
This was enjoyable, funny, and really easy to read. The audio is fantastic - thank you to my library for having this one!
3.5 stars
I talk about books at these places: Instagram / Twitter / TikTok / Blog
August 22, 2023
4/5 stars, very cute and I felt accurate anxiety portrayal
Thank you to Flatiron Books for the physical arc in exchange for an honest review!
Going into this book I really didn't know a lot, besides that, it was supposed to be a cute enemies-to-lovers romance about two former childhood best friends. This past year I've realized that I really enjoy the childhood best friends-to-lovers trope in romance books, so this AND enemies-to-lovers really delivered happiness to my heart. Beyond that, there is also a bit of fake dating though it is later in the book, so this really did include all my favorite tropes and I loved it.
Something else that I didn't know was going to happen as I went into the book was that this was going to be a pretty tame/clean romance novel. I personally do enjoy spice and don't mind all types, but it was also sweet to read a book where the romance didn't feel hyper-fixated on the sexual aspects of the characters. This allowed the romance to feel more realistic in some ways, especially because the main characters were two college freshmen still trying to figure their life out. I think this worked out really well for the book because it doesn't ignore that they may think about each other in that way, but it also acknowledges romance books don't just have to be about that.
The part of the book that I related to most (besides the characters being newly minted adults - even though I just turned 19) was the anxiety of the main character. While I have never been clinically diagnosed with anxiety, and am not being treated for it, I recognize how I have anxiety symptoms. While this made it hard to read the book at times, as the main character having anxiety spirals was a little too relatable at times, I did think it was a great representation of exactly how it feels to have anxiety. There were giant blocks of text that were just the main character going through her thoughts, spiraling, and being unable to focus on one thing or worry at a time. There were also lots of moments where she jumped to the worst outcome, and fixated on how it might happen, which is also something I do so it was nice to see that represented in a book.
I'm a sucker for enemies-to-lovers, fake dating, and friends-to-lovers so having all of those little tropes in this book was like a little gift all wrapped up. Each of those tropes came up in realistic ways I felt, and the enemies-to-lovers wasn't unrealistic like in some romance books. The two main characters had a falling out and considering the main character has anxiety, it really did make sense why it happened. All of this combined made for a really cute romance between Jesse and Brooke finally seeing one another again and starting to hang out.
Overall, this is a very cute and fun romance read, with almost no spice and some main characters who are very relatable. It was a very quick read and something perfect to just sit down with and absorb, or even recognize mental health with. I think this is a great read and should definitely go onto your to-be-read list!
[TW: drinking, estranged parent, divorce mentioned, depiction of anxiety, health crisis and emergency room visit, depiction of panic attacks]
Thank you to Flatiron Books for the physical arc in exchange for an honest review!
Going into this book I really didn't know a lot, besides that, it was supposed to be a cute enemies-to-lovers romance about two former childhood best friends. This past year I've realized that I really enjoy the childhood best friends-to-lovers trope in romance books, so this AND enemies-to-lovers really delivered happiness to my heart. Beyond that, there is also a bit of fake dating though it is later in the book, so this really did include all my favorite tropes and I loved it.
Something else that I didn't know was going to happen as I went into the book was that this was going to be a pretty tame/clean romance novel. I personally do enjoy spice and don't mind all types, but it was also sweet to read a book where the romance didn't feel hyper-fixated on the sexual aspects of the characters. This allowed the romance to feel more realistic in some ways, especially because the main characters were two college freshmen still trying to figure their life out. I think this worked out really well for the book because it doesn't ignore that they may think about each other in that way, but it also acknowledges romance books don't just have to be about that.
The part of the book that I related to most (besides the characters being newly minted adults - even though I just turned 19) was the anxiety of the main character. While I have never been clinically diagnosed with anxiety, and am not being treated for it, I recognize how I have anxiety symptoms. While this made it hard to read the book at times, as the main character having anxiety spirals was a little too relatable at times, I did think it was a great representation of exactly how it feels to have anxiety. There were giant blocks of text that were just the main character going through her thoughts, spiraling, and being unable to focus on one thing or worry at a time. There were also lots of moments where she jumped to the worst outcome, and fixated on how it might happen, which is also something I do so it was nice to see that represented in a book.
I'm a sucker for enemies-to-lovers, fake dating, and friends-to-lovers so having all of those little tropes in this book was like a little gift all wrapped up. Each of those tropes came up in realistic ways I felt, and the enemies-to-lovers wasn't unrealistic like in some romance books. The two main characters had a falling out and considering the main character has anxiety, it really did make sense why it happened. All of this combined made for a really cute romance between Jesse and Brooke finally seeing one another again and starting to hang out.
Overall, this is a very cute and fun romance read, with almost no spice and some main characters who are very relatable. It was a very quick read and something perfect to just sit down with and absorb, or even recognize mental health with. I think this is a great read and should definitely go onto your to-be-read list!
[TW: drinking, estranged parent, divorce mentioned, depiction of anxiety, health crisis and emergency room visit, depiction of panic attacks]
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August 4, 2023The following book reviews have been shared by Text Publishing – publisher of Unnecessary Drama
‘This is the MOST ADDORABLE BOOK I HAVE EVER READ…Pre-order it right now—it’s the best present you will ever give yourself.’
Jaclyn Crupi
‘Adorable, this book made us laugh, cry and feel all the warm and fuzzies. We just loved every single page.’
Ali Berg and Michelle Kalus
‘Takes readers through the tumultuous uncertainty that exists on the cusp of transitioning out of high school into adulthood.’
Bohdi Byles, Books+Publishing
‘I laughed out loud several times and fell in love with flawed protagonist Brooke…Completely charming from start to finish.’
Karys McEwen
‘One of the most hilarious books I have read in a very long time…Pure magic and an absolute delight to read. Enjoy the banter, prepare to relate to some wonderful characters and don’t forget to keep the tissues handy to wipe away those tears of laughter and joy.’
Kate McIntosh, Readings
‘This book had me crying tears of laughter! Nina Kenwood is rapidly becoming one of my favourite authors and Unnecessary Drama is a delightful gem!’
Sarah McDuling, Booktopia
‘This book had me in turns doubled over with laughter, flushing with second-hand embarrassment, and gasping with delight…Fun and deeply enjoyable.’
ArtsHub
‘Kenwood seems to be creating her own genre—the YA anxiety rom-com. Or if she’s not exactly creating it, she’s perfecting it…Cracking dialogue and authentic relationships. You’ll fall in love with Brooke and Jesse.’
Jo Case, InDaily
‘Nina Kenwood brings another quirky and relatable narrator to her latest novel…Authentic and appealing.’
Age/Sydney Morning Herald
‘Hilarious and desperately relatable…Full of glorious unresolved tension, meaningful looks, misunderstanding, big feelings and romantic tropes, Unnecessary Drama is a gorgeous book. It made me laugh and it made me cringe and it made me swoon.’
Lian Hingee, Readings
‘This book is the exact right balance of drama and dappled sunshine….I prescribe Unnecessary Drama for everyone’s weekend, whether it’s reading on the beach or under the doona in the cold November rain.’
Andrew Pople, 2SER Final Draft
‘Unnecessary Drama is a cute and light read with lots of feel-good moments.’
CBCA Reading Time
‘A funny and utterly charming story about finding love with the person you least expect and navigating life on your own for the first time.’
BookPeople
‘A joyous experience…Such an authentically delicious, chaotic and optimistic narrative.’
Kids' Book Review
‘Marvellous…Exquisitely funny.’
Lian Hingee, Readings
‘Unnecessary Drama is proof that Nina Kenwood knows perfectly how to capture the funny and nerve-wracking process of an anxious mind. You’ll recognise yourself and laugh and cringe along with Brooke.’
Micheal Earp, SMH/ Age
‘An absolutely charming story…I loved every minute…A hilarious and yet thoughtfully concerned journey for the reader. Nina Kenwood has got it just right.’
ReadPlus
‘I gulped down Unnecessary Drama like a cool glass of homemade lemonade on a hot day: tangy, refreshing, familiar and delicious—familiar in the best way, in that it reminded me of the way my own family and friends speak and act.’
Kate Constable, author of The Singer of All Songs
‘A perfect read for young people who have moved on from teen romance novels.’
Clare Millar, Big Issue
‘[A] romantic comedy that brings the rom and tons of the com...Sidesplitting comic writing and an appealingly messy protagonist to root for.’
Kirkus (starred review)
‘A fun, breezy read that feels lighthearted but is multilayered, this one will appeal to YA and new adult readers, especially those ready to begin college. Enthusiastically recommended.’
Library Journal (starred review)
‘This is the MOST ADDORABLE BOOK I HAVE EVER READ…Pre-order it right now—it’s the best present you will ever give yourself.’
Jaclyn Crupi
‘Adorable, this book made us laugh, cry and feel all the warm and fuzzies. We just loved every single page.’
Ali Berg and Michelle Kalus
‘Takes readers through the tumultuous uncertainty that exists on the cusp of transitioning out of high school into adulthood.’
Bohdi Byles, Books+Publishing
‘I laughed out loud several times and fell in love with flawed protagonist Brooke…Completely charming from start to finish.’
Karys McEwen
‘One of the most hilarious books I have read in a very long time…Pure magic and an absolute delight to read. Enjoy the banter, prepare to relate to some wonderful characters and don’t forget to keep the tissues handy to wipe away those tears of laughter and joy.’
Kate McIntosh, Readings
‘This book had me crying tears of laughter! Nina Kenwood is rapidly becoming one of my favourite authors and Unnecessary Drama is a delightful gem!’
Sarah McDuling, Booktopia
‘This book had me in turns doubled over with laughter, flushing with second-hand embarrassment, and gasping with delight…Fun and deeply enjoyable.’
ArtsHub
‘Kenwood seems to be creating her own genre—the YA anxiety rom-com. Or if she’s not exactly creating it, she’s perfecting it…Cracking dialogue and authentic relationships. You’ll fall in love with Brooke and Jesse.’
Jo Case, InDaily
‘Nina Kenwood brings another quirky and relatable narrator to her latest novel…Authentic and appealing.’
Age/Sydney Morning Herald
‘Hilarious and desperately relatable…Full of glorious unresolved tension, meaningful looks, misunderstanding, big feelings and romantic tropes, Unnecessary Drama is a gorgeous book. It made me laugh and it made me cringe and it made me swoon.’
Lian Hingee, Readings
‘This book is the exact right balance of drama and dappled sunshine….I prescribe Unnecessary Drama for everyone’s weekend, whether it’s reading on the beach or under the doona in the cold November rain.’
Andrew Pople, 2SER Final Draft
‘Unnecessary Drama is a cute and light read with lots of feel-good moments.’
CBCA Reading Time
‘A funny and utterly charming story about finding love with the person you least expect and navigating life on your own for the first time.’
BookPeople
‘A joyous experience…Such an authentically delicious, chaotic and optimistic narrative.’
Kids' Book Review
‘Marvellous…Exquisitely funny.’
Lian Hingee, Readings
‘Unnecessary Drama is proof that Nina Kenwood knows perfectly how to capture the funny and nerve-wracking process of an anxious mind. You’ll recognise yourself and laugh and cringe along with Brooke.’
Micheal Earp, SMH/ Age
‘An absolutely charming story…I loved every minute…A hilarious and yet thoughtfully concerned journey for the reader. Nina Kenwood has got it just right.’
ReadPlus
‘I gulped down Unnecessary Drama like a cool glass of homemade lemonade on a hot day: tangy, refreshing, familiar and delicious—familiar in the best way, in that it reminded me of the way my own family and friends speak and act.’
Kate Constable, author of The Singer of All Songs
‘A perfect read for young people who have moved on from teen romance novels.’
Clare Millar, Big Issue
‘[A] romantic comedy that brings the rom and tons of the com...Sidesplitting comic writing and an appealingly messy protagonist to root for.’
Kirkus (starred review)
‘A fun, breezy read that feels lighthearted but is multilayered, this one will appeal to YA and new adult readers, especially those ready to begin college. Enthusiastically recommended.’
Library Journal (starred review)
August 22, 2022
4.5 Stars for this book it was an absolute delight to read. There are some laugh out loud moments and some really heart wrenching ones as well. They are funny and heart wrenching because we have all been there. Brooke is one of the most relatable characters I have read in a long while, I saw so much of my teenage self and my friends in Brooke that at times it took my breath away.
It is not all fun and games and Nina Kenwood deals with some really sensitive issues with a really light hand. Kenwood tapes into the teenage mind so well she took me right back there.
Needless to say I loved this novel and I am pretty sure that anyone who picks it up will also love it.
Many thanks to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for the opportunity to read this wonderful novel.
It is not all fun and games and Nina Kenwood deals with some really sensitive issues with a really light hand. Kenwood tapes into the teenage mind so well she took me right back there.
Needless to say I loved this novel and I am pretty sure that anyone who picks it up will also love it.
Many thanks to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for the opportunity to read this wonderful novel.
January 9, 2023
Unnecessary Drama is the second novel by Australian author, Nina Kenwood. The audio version is narrated by Maddy Withington. Eighteen-year-old Brooke Williams has left her hometown to attend university in Melbourne. She’s a little anxious about the housemates she’ll be sharing with, but she’s super-organised and is confident they can establish a set of rules to ensure a harmonious existence (she can print and laminate them, have them spiral bound).
The house turns out to be a bit dilapidated, but she can cope with that, and she’s sure she and Harper will soon be firm friends, but their other housemate is a shock: unknown Jeremy turns out to be Jesse, her close friend at high school until an unforgivably humiliating incident in Year Eight that broke their bond. But she refuses to be driven out by his presence: they’ll just have to agree to quietly ignore one another.
That sort of works for a while, but it’s not easy to be barely civil to someone after they drive you to A&E and wait with you for hours: it seems Jesse has actually turned into quite a nice guy. And then there’s the situation in a pub with the last ex-boyfriend that requires a fake boyfriend to save face: Jesse volunteers, and maybe they’re not quite acting?
Kenwood’s protagonist is instantly loveable for her earnest good intentions and her guilelessness. The gradual revelation of her back story explains why she sees herself as the boring, responsible protector to her older sister, the wild reckless fun one, and why she doesn’t drink: “Being drunk would be messy, dangerous, out of control. My worst self might come out.”
She recognises that “I’m uptight, I’m controlling, I’m anxious, I worry about things too much, I’m not “fun”, although she’s probably way too hard on herself, but “being in control of myself is the most important factor to me feeling okay.” Brooke’s perspective is sometimes uniquely insightful: “And when you’re holding a party, and you need to invite people to said party and be sure they actually show up in person, it’s like a friendship exam.”
Brooke’s inner monologue and behaviour will resonate with any reader who admits to a tendency towards OCD even as it offers plenty of laugh-out-loud moments: the blind-date scene is absolutely hilarious. Reading this novel in the quiet carriage on public transport should probably be avoided; ditto eating or drinking whilst reading.
Readers in the mood for a funny feel-good Aussie romance that might also require the tissues, but promises a happy ending, will find that Kenwood’s second novel ticks all the boxes. Very entertaining!
The house turns out to be a bit dilapidated, but she can cope with that, and she’s sure she and Harper will soon be firm friends, but their other housemate is a shock: unknown Jeremy turns out to be Jesse, her close friend at high school until an unforgivably humiliating incident in Year Eight that broke their bond. But she refuses to be driven out by his presence: they’ll just have to agree to quietly ignore one another.
That sort of works for a while, but it’s not easy to be barely civil to someone after they drive you to A&E and wait with you for hours: it seems Jesse has actually turned into quite a nice guy. And then there’s the situation in a pub with the last ex-boyfriend that requires a fake boyfriend to save face: Jesse volunteers, and maybe they’re not quite acting?
Kenwood’s protagonist is instantly loveable for her earnest good intentions and her guilelessness. The gradual revelation of her back story explains why she sees herself as the boring, responsible protector to her older sister, the wild reckless fun one, and why she doesn’t drink: “Being drunk would be messy, dangerous, out of control. My worst self might come out.”
She recognises that “I’m uptight, I’m controlling, I’m anxious, I worry about things too much, I’m not “fun”, although she’s probably way too hard on herself, but “being in control of myself is the most important factor to me feeling okay.” Brooke’s perspective is sometimes uniquely insightful: “And when you’re holding a party, and you need to invite people to said party and be sure they actually show up in person, it’s like a friendship exam.”
Brooke’s inner monologue and behaviour will resonate with any reader who admits to a tendency towards OCD even as it offers plenty of laugh-out-loud moments: the blind-date scene is absolutely hilarious. Reading this novel in the quiet carriage on public transport should probably be avoided; ditto eating or drinking whilst reading.
Readers in the mood for a funny feel-good Aussie romance that might also require the tissues, but promises a happy ending, will find that Kenwood’s second novel ticks all the boxes. Very entertaining!
April 17, 2023
It's an easy, cute as well as entertaining read!!
My second book of this author and I really enjoy her writing..
My second book of this author and I really enjoy her writing..
June 18, 2023
Oh believe me, ALL the drama was necessary!!
Soo goood.
Soo goood.
October 18, 2022
the only bad thing about this book is that i have to wait ten months to reread it and annotate it bc the paperback doesn't come out in europe until august 2023
July 21, 2022
This is such a joyful, relatable and genuinely funny new 'new adult' book. I laughed out loud several times and fell in love with flawed protagonist Brooke and her plight to get through first year uni, including her first experiences living in a sharehouse, and her often-disastrous love life.
But really... how could we expect any less from Nina Kenwood? Her debut is still one of my favourite Australian YA books of all time. This latest work is just as clever, witty and reassuring. Completely charming from start to finish. Get yourselves a copy as soon as it's out!
But really... how could we expect any less from Nina Kenwood? Her debut is still one of my favourite Australian YA books of all time. This latest work is just as clever, witty and reassuring. Completely charming from start to finish. Get yourselves a copy as soon as it's out!
November 27, 2022
Trigger warnings: mental health, panic attacks, alcohol abuse, emotional abuse, blood.
This was freaking adorable from start to finish. No one does end-of-high-school/start-of-uni YA quite like Nina Kenwood, and this was just as fantastic as It Sounded Better In My Head.
The characters are wonderful, and the dynamic between Brooke and Jesse is spectacular. I love how much messiness Kenwood includes in her stories, and the awkwardness and sweetness that's woven throughout the story here - especially the complexities of their past relationship - is just an absolute delight.
This was freaking adorable from start to finish. No one does end-of-high-school/start-of-uni YA quite like Nina Kenwood, and this was just as fantastic as It Sounded Better In My Head.
The characters are wonderful, and the dynamic between Brooke and Jesse is spectacular. I love how much messiness Kenwood includes in her stories, and the awkwardness and sweetness that's woven throughout the story here - especially the complexities of their past relationship - is just an absolute delight.
October 19, 2022
My expectations for Unnecessary Drama were very high, since I loved It Sounded Better In My Head so much, but I not only wasn't disappointed, but loved this book so much, too!
I love the author's voice, how she is able to make me feel deeply with her MC, how she captures a 18/19-year-old's insecurities in a believable way.
The fact that we got only the female MC's pov was a perfect choice (just like in her first book).
Brooke was an amazingly written character, and Jessie was sweet and so good for Brooke.
Loved it. I'm without a doubt going to reread this.
5 stars.
I love the author's voice, how she is able to make me feel deeply with her MC, how she captures a 18/19-year-old's insecurities in a believable way.
The fact that we got only the female MC's pov was a perfect choice (just like in her first book).
Brooke was an amazingly written character, and Jessie was sweet and so good for Brooke.
Loved it. I'm without a doubt going to reread this.
5 stars.
August 12, 2024
third read: august 2024
this is my better than the movies <3
first read: august 2023
Literally obsessed with this, it was so cute and funny, like I genuinely laughed out loud multiple times
this is my better than the movies <3
first read: august 2023
Literally obsessed with this, it was so cute and funny, like I genuinely laughed out loud multiple times
July 3, 2024
Is it annoying how much the main character stresses about everything? Yes. Is that how much I stress about everything? Yes.
April 23, 2023
I went into this book expecting a cute, fun and fluffy romance set against going to uni in Melbourne and navigating life in the big city, which is exactly what I got. And that's okay! Not every book has to blow you away or go above and beyond your expectations. Sometimes you just want to sit on the couch with a cup of tea and read a low-stakes YA rom-com style, and this is the perfect book for that desire.
Brooke is practical and responsible, the classic "Mum friend" taking care of everyone else, even after moving out of home to live in the big city. Despite me being almost 10 years older, I have a lot of history in common with what Brooke is experiencing in this book, so I found it very easy to understand what she was going through.
Jesse is more social and out-going, and definitely "slobbier" than Brooke would like, considering they are housemates. Although very early, he is established as having a kind heart, caring about Brooke and trying to fix their broken relationship.
The plot is a run-of-the-mill enemies-to-lovers, but that's one of my favourite tropes, so I was eating it up. Tropes exist for a reason, and it's the characters and setting that make it different. I wouldn't call this a slow-burn, considering the book is only just above 300pages, but the character dynamics were fun, and it was nice to see Jesse and Brooke heal the friendship they had in early high school. However, a lot of the "conflict" in this book came about because characters just WOULDN'T TALK TO EACH OTHER!!! Communication, people!! So many misunderstandings wouldn't happen if people just talked!
All in all, a fun and cute YA/New Adult romance perfect for a rainy weekend read.
Brooke is practical and responsible, the classic "Mum friend" taking care of everyone else, even after moving out of home to live in the big city. Despite me being almost 10 years older, I have a lot of history in common with what Brooke is experiencing in this book, so I found it very easy to understand what she was going through.
Jesse is more social and out-going, and definitely "slobbier" than Brooke would like, considering they are housemates. Although very early, he is established as having a kind heart, caring about Brooke and trying to fix their broken relationship.
The plot is a run-of-the-mill enemies-to-lovers, but that's one of my favourite tropes, so I was eating it up. Tropes exist for a reason, and it's the characters and setting that make it different. I wouldn't call this a slow-burn, considering the book is only just above 300pages, but the character dynamics were fun, and it was nice to see Jesse and Brooke heal the friendship they had in early high school. However, a lot of the "conflict" in this book came about because characters just WOULDN'T TALK TO EACH OTHER!!! Communication, people!! So many misunderstandings wouldn't happen if people just talked!
All in all, a fun and cute YA/New Adult romance perfect for a rainy weekend read.
October 24, 2023
You expect so much of people, sometimes you can’t see the good parts because you’re dwelling on the ways they don’t live up to who you want them to be
When I read two years ago the debut of the author I was ecstatic. A YA/coming-of-age modern novel isn't my favourite genre but I like to choose from this shelf from time to time. Nina Kenwood confirmed with this book, that she is currently one of the best authors of the genre.
Funny, thoughtful, real. Without pretense, and without unnecessary drama. Yet, giving me a few moments of sighing. The mix I love the most.
I have found here not only a convincing, sweet, real love story but also a mature view of different relationships between children and parents.
I liked that she didn't try to write a book with the adults as the main characters but that she concentrated on "the semi-adult". I agree with Brooke:
I thought the story would matter more if the characters were older, with kids and houses and finances at stake, but maybe I’m wrong. Maybe it doesn’t need any of that
If you are honest as a writer and you feel the story - the story among young/semi-adults can be as great and interesting as one taking place among adults.
Nina Kenwood took four years to write the second book, but if these years were necessary to give us such a charming novel - I will wait for another one (although, impatiently).
August 25, 2023
I enjoyed this book so much! Utterly engaging & so relatable, once I started reading UNNECESSARY DRAMA, I couldn’t stop.
This YA rom com is the feel-good read to turn to the next time you want something warm-hearted and adorable!
The behaviour and over-thinking of 18-year-old protagonist, Brooke as she navigates her first year at uni and living in a share house was so damn relatable. Her anxious thoughts and attempts to fit in resonated with me and I thought her inner monologue and feelings were really well portrayed. I was nodding alone the whole time.
I received an e-copy of this book from NetGalley & Text Publishing and I’m so glad I read this book! This was the author’s second book & I’ve already bought her debut to enjoy over summer.
UNNECESSARY DRAMA is the kind of book that will fill you with nostalgia for your post high school days. This was such a delightful read!
This YA rom com is the feel-good read to turn to the next time you want something warm-hearted and adorable!
The behaviour and over-thinking of 18-year-old protagonist, Brooke as she navigates her first year at uni and living in a share house was so damn relatable. Her anxious thoughts and attempts to fit in resonated with me and I thought her inner monologue and feelings were really well portrayed. I was nodding alone the whole time.
I received an e-copy of this book from NetGalley & Text Publishing and I’m so glad I read this book! This was the author’s second book & I’ve already bought her debut to enjoy over summer.
UNNECESSARY DRAMA is the kind of book that will fill you with nostalgia for your post high school days. This was such a delightful read!
November 28, 2023
Obsessed with this book 😍I swear I had a smile on my face the whole time I was reading it, and cruised through it in a day or two. I know many reviewers found Brooke annoying but omg I loved her! I found her hilarious and so relatable when I think back to myself at that age. Jesse is a sweetheart and I loved the dynamic between him and Brooke.
I just found this book SO cute and charming and it put me in a good mood while reading it. Highly recommend if you want a cute, light read.
I just found this book SO cute and charming and it put me in a good mood while reading it. Highly recommend if you want a cute, light read.
October 23, 2024
3.5★
Unnecessary Drama by Aussie author Nina Kenwood was an enjoyable light romance novel. With relatable characters, this story was an easy read. Recommended.
With thanks to the publishers for my copy to read and review.
Unnecessary Drama by Aussie author Nina Kenwood was an enjoyable light romance novel. With relatable characters, this story was an easy read. Recommended.
With thanks to the publishers for my copy to read and review.
November 7, 2022
Jesse is adorable
July 7, 2023
Content Warning: Anxiety, panic attacks, substance abuse, absent father
This was one of the most precious books I’ve ever read!
Unnecessary Drama is an adorable, heart-warming romance following a very anxious 18-year-old Brooke who has just moved out of her house and is living on her own for the first time as she attends college. She knows someone who knows someone that has a house for rent, which ends up putting Brooke in the inconceivable situation in which she becomes roommates with her former-best-friend-turned-nemesis, Jesse. Their other housemate is Harper, the granddaughter of their landlord, and she has one rule: no unnecessary drama.
Former nemeses become begrudging acquaintances. Angst from past betrayals come to light. Aches from a lost friendship rise to the surface. Complications and some truly hilarious shenanigans drive the two closer and closer together, forcing them to confront their past betrayals…and also their feelings.
This was so fantastic! It was exactly my cup of tea, between the authentic anxiety representation and the adorable friends-to-enemies-to-friends-to-lovers progression. There were also tons of moments where I cackled out loud because I was having so much fun and the writing, together with the audiobook narrator’s delivery, were hilarious.
Regarding the representation, Brooke’s anxiety spirals were so spot on that they were almost triggering to me. With that being said, I would approach this book with an abundance of caution if you’re not in a good headspace with your anxiety at the moment. The reason the representation is so good is because it is ever-present. It doesn’t just disappear when Brooke is happy or when she conquers her fears and achieves her HEA at the end; the anxiety still persists.
This is so wonderful to see as someone who suffers from GAD and situational anxiety. It is incredibly well done, not despite the fact that it’s exhausting to listen to constantly, but because it’s so mentally grueling to witness. Kenwood captures anxiety authentically, and really puts her readers in a space where they can understand it, too. There were so many times where I just wanted to wrap little Brooke in the biggest hug.
Speaking of Brooke, she is a flawed main character in a really believable way. I was just as angry and vengeful, just as anxious and overly cautious when I was her age. There were times when I was cringing because I knew she was being dramatic and acting out, but it was exactly like something I had done when I was eighteen, which was probably the reason I kept getting uncomfortable second-hand embarrassment for her.
In the end, her growth in this capacity is really gratifying to see, mostly because it’s subtle; Brooke doesn’t magically reach perfection in the dénouement. She remains flawed, but pushes herself out of her comfort zone, and commits herself to continually working toward growth.
However, I would have liked to see her going to therapy for her anxiety and familial issues in the epilogue chapter. The conflict with her absent father who abuses alcohol was well done, but the way it manifests in anxiety toward her sister is alarming, unhealthy, and realistic, although she would have greatly benefited from going to therapy in the end.
As for the romance, it’s fantastic, laugh-out-loud funny, and really heart-warming. It doesn’t reinvent the wheel by any means, but I loved it all the same. The way Jesse becomes a safe space for Brooke toward the end—one of the few people in her life that doesn’t exacerbate her anxieties but actively helps her to relax—is really beautiful.
There are also so many scenes before we reached that point that made the two grow closer together and really sold their connection in the end. One particular scene comes to mind, where Brooke and Jesse go back to visit their respective families and meet up. The emotional connection and subsequent physical chemistry are quite literally on fire in that scene (despite it not getting spicy). I was listening to that section in the grocery store and my face was all flushed. My heart was just so happy for them!
Jesse is also a compelling character; he is flawed, but works toward growth in his own ways, and also has family issues of his own. Disclosing these to Brooke strengthened their connection. I started getting a “twin flames” vibe from them at this point, which is my favorite trope.
My biggest critique, however, is that this needed more diversity. Harper and her girlfriend are sapphic and Brooke has anxiety, but that’s all there is to it. Everyone in this book is white. I needed more, and I hope Kenwood becomes more inclusive in her upcoming releases.
Overall, from the authentic anxiety rep to the hilarious, swoon-worthy romance, I had a blast and will definitely be picking up more books from Nina Kenwood in the future!
Audiobook Rating: 5/5 - I loved Maddy Withington’s delivery during the comedic sections and also appreciated that they found an Aussie narrator.
Spice Rating: 🌶️ 1/5 - Does Not Exceed Kissing
Overall Rating: 4.5 stars rounded up!
A big thank you to Netgalley and the publishers, Macmillan Audio, for providing me with an advanced copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review!
This was one of the most precious books I’ve ever read!
Unnecessary Drama is an adorable, heart-warming romance following a very anxious 18-year-old Brooke who has just moved out of her house and is living on her own for the first time as she attends college. She knows someone who knows someone that has a house for rent, which ends up putting Brooke in the inconceivable situation in which she becomes roommates with her former-best-friend-turned-nemesis, Jesse. Their other housemate is Harper, the granddaughter of their landlord, and she has one rule: no unnecessary drama.
Former nemeses become begrudging acquaintances. Angst from past betrayals come to light. Aches from a lost friendship rise to the surface. Complications and some truly hilarious shenanigans drive the two closer and closer together, forcing them to confront their past betrayals…and also their feelings.
This was so fantastic! It was exactly my cup of tea, between the authentic anxiety representation and the adorable friends-to-enemies-to-friends-to-lovers progression. There were also tons of moments where I cackled out loud because I was having so much fun and the writing, together with the audiobook narrator’s delivery, were hilarious.
Regarding the representation, Brooke’s anxiety spirals were so spot on that they were almost triggering to me. With that being said, I would approach this book with an abundance of caution if you’re not in a good headspace with your anxiety at the moment. The reason the representation is so good is because it is ever-present. It doesn’t just disappear when Brooke is happy or when she conquers her fears and achieves her HEA at the end; the anxiety still persists.
This is so wonderful to see as someone who suffers from GAD and situational anxiety. It is incredibly well done, not despite the fact that it’s exhausting to listen to constantly, but because it’s so mentally grueling to witness. Kenwood captures anxiety authentically, and really puts her readers in a space where they can understand it, too. There were so many times where I just wanted to wrap little Brooke in the biggest hug.
Speaking of Brooke, she is a flawed main character in a really believable way. I was just as angry and vengeful, just as anxious and overly cautious when I was her age. There were times when I was cringing because I knew she was being dramatic and acting out, but it was exactly like something I had done when I was eighteen, which was probably the reason I kept getting uncomfortable second-hand embarrassment for her.
In the end, her growth in this capacity is really gratifying to see, mostly because it’s subtle; Brooke doesn’t magically reach perfection in the dénouement. She remains flawed, but pushes herself out of her comfort zone, and commits herself to continually working toward growth.
However, I would have liked to see her going to therapy for her anxiety and familial issues in the epilogue chapter. The conflict with her absent father who abuses alcohol was well done, but the way it manifests in anxiety toward her sister is alarming, unhealthy, and realistic, although she would have greatly benefited from going to therapy in the end.
As for the romance, it’s fantastic, laugh-out-loud funny, and really heart-warming. It doesn’t reinvent the wheel by any means, but I loved it all the same. The way Jesse becomes a safe space for Brooke toward the end—one of the few people in her life that doesn’t exacerbate her anxieties but actively helps her to relax—is really beautiful.
There are also so many scenes before we reached that point that made the two grow closer together and really sold their connection in the end. One particular scene comes to mind, where Brooke and Jesse go back to visit their respective families and meet up. The emotional connection and subsequent physical chemistry are quite literally on fire in that scene (despite it not getting spicy). I was listening to that section in the grocery store and my face was all flushed. My heart was just so happy for them!
Jesse is also a compelling character; he is flawed, but works toward growth in his own ways, and also has family issues of his own. Disclosing these to Brooke strengthened their connection. I started getting a “twin flames” vibe from them at this point, which is my favorite trope.
My biggest critique, however, is that this needed more diversity. Harper and her girlfriend are sapphic and Brooke has anxiety, but that’s all there is to it. Everyone in this book is white. I needed more, and I hope Kenwood becomes more inclusive in her upcoming releases.
Overall, from the authentic anxiety rep to the hilarious, swoon-worthy romance, I had a blast and will definitely be picking up more books from Nina Kenwood in the future!
Audiobook Rating: 5/5 - I loved Maddy Withington’s delivery during the comedic sections and also appreciated that they found an Aussie narrator.
Spice Rating: 🌶️ 1/5 - Does Not Exceed Kissing
Overall Rating: 4.5 stars rounded up!
A big thank you to Netgalley and the publishers, Macmillan Audio, for providing me with an advanced copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review!
August 3, 2023
So relatable it hurts. Adore this book with my whole heart. 200% recommending this. A new forever favorite. <3
Full review coming soon on the blog :)
Thank you to the publisher for sending me an e-ARC. This did not, in any way, influence my thoughts & rating.
My Blog - Drizzle & Hurricane Books - Twitter - Bookstagram -
Full review coming soon on the blog :)
Thank you to the publisher for sending me an e-ARC. This did not, in any way, influence my thoughts & rating.
My Blog - Drizzle & Hurricane Books - Twitter - Bookstagram -
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