BOOK REVIEW: Something to Talk About

Something to Talk About by Meryl Wilsner
Publication Date: May 26th, 2020

So it’s been a real hot minute since I wrote a full length review and with everything going on in the world right now, it’s not hard to imagine why. But this book was so good that I had to reason with myself and be like “Bree, this book was so good and you really loved Emma and Jo! Don’t they deserve a review from you? So other people can love them too?” And of course I was like, “That’s a really solid point. I concede.” So here we are.

Now, Something to Talk About is an excellent slowburn queer romance, set against the backdrop of the Los Angeles film industry. We tune in as Emma and Jo accidentally spark dating rumors on the red carpet of an awards show. Emma makes Jo laugh and the moment is caught in perfect perpetuity. Which totally would have been fine, if Jo wasn’t a big Hollywood showrunner and Emma, her assistant. As the rumors gain traction, both characters flounder with how to deal with the worsening situation (and their growing attraction).

What I Liked:

Honestly it was refreshing to see a professional interpretation of Hollywood, instead of the normal cheesy interpretation popularized by a lot of YA books. Not to discount them. I’ve just lived my entire life in proximity to the actual LA, so romanticized book versions of the city get tired after awhile. This had more of an “LA of the Adults” vibe to it, which I enjoyed.
Emma and Jo are ridiculously adorable and soft and every scene with the two of them is endearing!! They are just so wholesome and I want to give them a million hugs and be their best friends.
I loved how the plot was way more involved and struck a good work/life/romance balance. Especially when Emma’s sister, Avery, was involved. It almost feels like she’s the unofficial third main character. I loved how she effortlessly switched back and forth between teasing Jo and teasing Emma.

What I Didn’t Like:

Not actually a complaint. Jo is like my favorite character ever, and I definitely could have used way more of her chapters [OR A LONGER EPILOGUE. If you know, you know.]
- I would not mind one bit if Meryl Wilsner decided to turn this into the start of a “romance series” because I would really love some Emma & Jo cameos, please.

Recap:

Basically, Something to Talk About is exceptional queer slowburn and you should all pick it up ASAP. Especially if you enjoy reading characters that are not riddled with annoying flaws and that maintain cute, soft moments all the way through the book. I know, I have a new favorite and as I’m sitting here writing the end of this review, I can already tell my mood reader brain is going to lead me into a reread of this book very soon.

5/5 stars

xoxo, Bree

*Thank you Edelweiss + for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review.*