The Re-Write

by Lizzie Damilola Blackburn
The Re-Write cover
Good Books rating 3.94
Romance
Technical:
  • ID: 532
  • Added: 2025-09-14
  • Updated: 2025-09-17
  • ISBN: 9780385696982
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 2025-08-12
  • Formats: 3
  • Reviews: 4
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £9.99

Temi and Wale’s relationship begins with flirtation and dating in London but ends in a breakup, only for them to be thrown back together when Temi takes a ghostwriting job for a celebrity memoir—only to discover the subject is Wale. Temi, an aspiring author struggling with rejection and bills, faces the challenge of working closely with her ex while navigating their complicated history and personal growth. This romantic comedy explores themes of self-doubt, ambition, and second chances, blending humor with emotional depth. The story captures the messy, addictive push and pull of a relationship tested by past wounds and new opportunities, all set against the backdrop of London life and the publishing world. It’s a fresh take on the rom-com genre with relatable characters and a joyful, witty tone.

Reviews
Dear Author · 2025-08-12
mixed 3.00

The reviewer was initially excited and enjoyed parts of the book but found issues with some aspects. The book has a promising premise but some elements did not fully satisfy.

The review expresses a mixed opinion, starting with enthusiasm for the book's concept but later pointing out certain shortcomings that tempered the overall experience. While the story and characters had appeal, some plot or pacing issues detracted from a fully positive impression. This nuanced view suggests the book will appeal to many readers but may not be flawless in execution.

Quick quotes

    I was psyched at the idea of this book, enjoyed parts of it, but have issues with some of the rest.

    The book has a promising premise.

    Some aspects did not fully satisfy.

Goodreads · Obsidian · 2025-08-09
heartfelt 4.50

The book is a heartfelt, chaotic, romantic, and real second-chance romance that tackles difficult topics like racism and toxic masculinity, with sharp banter and emotional depth.

Obsidian highlights the novel's ability to address complex social issues such as racism, racial stereotypes, sexual assault, alcoholism, and toxic masculinity, all while maintaining a fun and thought-provoking narrative. They emphasize the emotional depth and relatability of the characters, appreciating the sharp banter and the realistic portrayal of second chances not only in love but also in personal growth. This makes the book stand out as both entertaining and meaningful for readers who enjoy romance with substance. The reviewer also notes that fans of second-chance romances and reality TV-style drama will find the story particularly engaging. They recommend the book highly for its blend of humor, heart, and real-life challenges faced by the characters, making it a compelling and satisfying read.

Quick quotes

    The Re-Write is heartfelt, chaotic, romantic, and real.

    It didn't shy away from incredibly difficult topics from racism, racial stereotypes, sexual assault, alcoholism, toxic masculinity.

    Highly recommend if you love sharp banter, emotional depth, and characters you root for even when they’re making a mess of things.

Bookworm Girl · 2025-02-13
engaging 4.25

The banter between characters is brilliant and the story is so engaging it feels like one to savour slowly. The book combines humour, heart, and relatable challenges effectively.

This review highlights the strong character interactions, especially the witty banter that makes the romantic comedy feel fresh and entertaining. The reviewer appreciates how the story balances humour with emotional depth, creating a satisfying read that one wishes to prolong rather than rush through. The characters' challenges and growth feel relatable, making the romance not just fun but meaningful as well.

Quick quotes

    The banter between the characters was brilliant.

    It's definitely one of those books you wish you could savour because you don't want it to end.

    The Re-Write has heart, humour, romance and challenges to overcome with relatable characters and situations.

NS Ford Writer · 2025-02-13
thoughtful 4.00

The novel explores important themes like toxic masculinity and plus-size positivity within a second-chance romance. The reviewer values its cultural diversity and emotional depth.

This review appreciates how the book goes beyond a typical romance by addressing significant social themes such as toxic masculinity and body positivity, which enrich the narrative. It praises the diversity of characters and the emotional payoffs in the story, making it a meaningful read that resonates on multiple levels beyond just the romantic plot.

Quick quotes

    Not only is it a second-chance romance, there are important themes explored such as toxic masculinity, plus-size positivity, diversity in the story.

    Lizzie's vision and writing style was engaging.

    I really loved Temi and Wale's story.

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