A review by wanderingintopages
The Pairing by Casey McQuiston

4.0

Two bisexual exes are forced to confront their unresolved feelings when they both accidentally book the same European food and wine tour. What starts as a casual hookup competition to prove they’re over each other quickly turns into something much more complicated—and much more romantic.

Theo and Kit have a long history: childhood best friends, mutual crushes, lovers, and now estranged exes after a bitter breakup. Four years have passed since their dream trip to Europe was derailed by their sudden split, but now, with their old tour voucher about to expire, both independently decide to take the trip—solo. What they don’t expect is to find each other on the same tour bus, embarking on a three-week journey through the most romantic destinations in France, Spain, and Italy.

Determined to show they’ve moved on, Theo and Kit make a wager: whoever can hook up with the tour’s hot Italian guide first wins. But as they indulge in the stunning sights, incredible cuisine, and intoxicating wines of Europe, the sparks that first brought them together start to reignite. Soon, the competition isn’t about anyone else—it’s about proving to themselves that what they had might not be over after all.

Casey McQuiston once again delivers a delightful, heartfelt, and sexy rom-com that explores complex emotions, second chances, and the messy nature of love. *The Pairing* is filled with witty banter, mouth-watering descriptions of food and wine, and steamy, romantic tension as Theo and Kit navigate their way through Europe—and their tangled feelings for each other. The backdrop of vibrant European cities adds a rich, immersive atmosphere to their slow-burn romance.

The chemistry between Theo and Kit is palpable, with McQuiston skillfully blending humor, passion, and poignant moments of reflection on love, loss, and self-discovery. Fans of McQuiston's previous works will find the same signature charm and queer joy, while also relishing in the fresh dynamics of a bisexual second-chance romance.

Tropes
- Second-Chance Romance
- Enemies-to-Lovers (with a twist)
- Forced Proximity
- Queer Joy

The Pairing is a joyful, swoon-worthy rom-com packed with humor, heart, and heat. Casey McQuiston fans will savor this delicious blend of romance, travel, and emotional depth, making it a must-read for anyone looking for a feel-good story about second chances and rekindled love.