Cover Story - by Mhairi McFarlane (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

Mr. & Mrs. Smith meets The Hating Game in this heartfelt, witty, and utterly unputdownable enemies-to-lovers romance from international bestseller Mhairi McFarlane, about two journalists who must fake a relationship in order to land a huge story.

Bel has just landed a job at the Manchester office of a big national newspaper, coming off the success of her latest award-winning podcast. The team is small, consisting of Bel, her ambitious colleague Aaron, and the new intern. But when the intern turns out to be a thirtysomething man called Connor, she's not impressed. She's patronizing, he's hostile: it's a terrible start.

Connor's life is in a state of collapse. He's left his seemingly perfect life in London--a well-paying job, great apartment, and beautiful girlfriend--for a chance to pursue a lifelong dream of becoming a reporter. After a bad first impression with Bel, his internship begins to feel like another in a series of poor decisions. But if Connor were honest with himself, she's the first bit of excitement he's felt in a very long time.

When Bel suddenly finds herself at the heels of a huge story, she's determined to see it through-- even if it means involving the inscrutable and aloof Connor. Before they know it, they must convince people they're not just a couple, but a couple madly in love. If they mess up, Bel's cover is blown and the biggest story she'll ever have landed will disappear, along with justice for its sources.

But as time goes on, Bel and Connor start to wonder if their cover story is just an act, or if their feelings are real...

Review Quotes

"McFarlane is one of my all-time favorite writers now." -- Emily Henry

"Bridget Jones, you've got some competition." -- Marie Claire

"Her books are so emotionally intelligent and insightful." -- Tahereh Mafi

"McFarlane brings a welcome dose of reality to the fake office romance trope with flawed, honest, but still endearing protagonists... McFarlane's arch humor and earnest characters make this familiar plot feel fresh, fun, and genuinely moving. This is a delightful rom-com full of sass, sparkle, and heart. " -- Publishers Weekly on If I Never Met You