Book Smart Kate

by Mallory Thomas (Oct. 22, 2024) A heartfelt thank you to Mallory Thomas for the #gifted print copy of this lovely book! At 326 pages, it’s a delightful and emotional read—and it’s also available on Kindle Unlimited.

Piper is finally clawing her way out of a rough patch. After her ex-boyfriend managed to blow up both their relationship and her career in one fell swoop, she’s reinventing herself, leaving behind the high-stakes world of finance for the rewarding (if far less lucrative) work of a non-profit. Enter James—a handsome stranger on the train—who offers to add her to his commuter pass account as his “spouse,” saving her money she desperately needs. What starts as a harmless favor takes a dramatic turn when a crime on the train pulls them into a police investigation. Now, the authorities think they’re married, and Piper and James must learn enough about each other to maintain their charade.

What follows is a journey of discovery and connection, as these opposites slowly realize they might actually fit perfectly together. Piper has sworn off relationships, while James, grieving the loss of his mother, is hesitant to burden anyone with his pain. Yet, as they navigate their way through an unexpected and slow-burning connection—evolving from strangers to confidants—their chemistry is undeniable.

What I loved most was how the stakes felt grounded and relatable. James’s act of kindness seemed simple until they became witnesses to a Crome. Watching their emotional investment grow as they exchanged names, jokes, and eventually phone numbers felt organic and authentic. Piper’s hesitations after her traumatic breakup were deeply understandable, and James’s reluctance to share his grief added an emotional depth to the story. Their growth felt real, raw, and immensely satisfying.

And I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the delightful thread tying this story together: Bisquick sausage balls. If you’ve had them, you know. If you haven’t, this book might just inspire you to change that.

This is a charming, heartfelt tale of healing and the serendipitous connections that can change everything.