Reviews

If I Never Met You by Mhairi McFarlane

athiya_'s review against another edition

3.0

The build-up was really really good but the end fell flat.

choya's review against another edition

3.0

I thought it was average, could have been better but the ending was bleh for me

schor's review against another edition

funny lighthearted medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes

3.5

emptzuu's review against another edition

The book begins with an extensive exploration of a breakup with a toxic partner, which dominates the narrative. In a romance novel, I anticipate the main characters to share ample on-page time, fostering their connection. However, the protagonist remains fixated on her past relationship, leaving little room for the budding romance with the new love interest, who comes across as one-dimensional. This disproportionate focus detracts from the expected romantic elements, and I find myself disengaged from the characters.

Additionally, I was under the impression that the author was a woman of color, but was surprised to discover she is a white Scottish woman. The inclusion of a racially diverse protagonist feels tokenistic, as if it were a superficial addition rather than an integral aspect of the character's identity. Merely acknowledging race without integrating it meaningfully into the narrative falls short of genuine diversity representation in romance literature. 

snon's review against another edition

emotional funny lighthearted relaxing medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

2.5

svillanu's review against another edition

4.0

I loved the character development, and I felt for the main character so much! I was really invested in her personal growth outside of the various relationships, and I loved to see her develop a sense of self. Overall, I loved this!

rmerchant's review against another edition

lighthearted relaxing medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

samira2205's review against another edition

emotional funny hopeful lighthearted relaxing medium-paced

5.0

dalopez20's review

emotional funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted sad slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.25

sparkinspace's review against another edition

funny hopeful lighthearted fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

A really good fake dating romance. Exactly what I wanted when I searched for a good romance. Some parts made me gasp and giggle which is always a good sign when it comes to a feel good book.

No explicit sex either! :)

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Content Warnings

Graphic: Infidelity

Moderate: Pregnancy and Child death

Minor: Cancer, Car accident, and Misogyny