Publishers Weekly
07/16/2018
In Lauren’s hilarious standalone, hot mess Hazel Bradford and blueprint-perfect Josh Im are definitely, indisputably not dating. Hazel, extremely eccentric and lacking any filter, has more in common with the third graders she teaches than the exquisite genius Josh, a successful physical therapist. After a series of embarrassing encounters in college, Hazel is certain that she has proven to Josh that she’s completely undatable, but, when they meet again seven years later, she hopes they can be friends. When it turns out Josh’s girlfriend has been cheating on him, Hazel and Josh begin setting each other up on disastrous blind double-dates as an excuse to spend time together. Hazel is wild and unapologetic, and her yearning for love and family is perfectly blended with her refusal to settle for anyone who doesn’t appreciate her quirks. Though the novel is predictable at times and full of convenient mishaps that throw the pair together, Lauren (Roomies) finds the perfect balance between charming moments and sultry episodes. Agent: Holly Root, Root Literary. (Sept.)
Booklist
"Lauren (Love and Other Words, 2018) has penned a hilariously zany and heartfelt novel... the story is sure to please readers looking for a fun-filled novel to escape everyday life with."
The New York Times Book Review
"The story skips along...propelled by rom-com momentum and charm.
Booklist
"Lauren (Love and Other Words, 2018) has penned a hilariously zany and heartfelt novel... the story is sure to please readers looking for a fun-filled novel to escape everyday life with."
Library Journal - Audio
★ 11/01/2018
This romantic comedy by best-selling duo Lauren (Christina Hobbs and Lauren Billings) is a laugh-out-loud listen that also delivers when it comes to more serious emotions. Best friends Josh and Hazel find themselves single at the same time and undertake a series of blind double dates to get themselves back into the game. Their relationship includes secret crushes, friends to lovers, and second chances with past lovers, yet their journey feels fresh. Hazel is a delightfully unique character, and Josh happily plays her straight man, making the odd situations they find themselves in even funnier. Their hilarious friends and relatives help center the characters and provide depth to their story. Narrators Jayme Mattler and Todd Haberkorn switch off based on whose point of view a chapter is told from, but each does such a good job at both protagonists' voices that the tandem effort elevates rather than detracts from the listening experience. VERDICT This novel is sure to be a hit; recommended for all public library collections.—Nicole Williams, New York
