The Ick by Holly McCulloch

Holly McCulloch’s The Ick delivers a smart, layered romantic comedy that flips the fake-dating trope in the most unexpected way—because only she knows it’s fake. And also it’s enemies to lovers, but only she sees it as that.

When Gem agrees to a first date with Atlas, it starts off good. However, she’s somewhat emotionally closed off, guarded from past trauma, and hyper-aware of red flags (for her at least). So when she gets “the ick” from Atlas with one small moment, she’s ready to walk. Gem confides in her best friend Shanti, who sees an opportunity: date him anyway and treat it like a human behavior study.

Atlas is a total gem (pun intended). He’s got golden retriever energy, a heart of gold, and a chaotic charm that only needs a calendar to stay on track. From surprise outings to an oversized tabletop game park, Atlas keeps showing up and proving he’s more than a one-date wonder. And Gem? She keeps pretending it’s not real—even as every perfectly imperfect moment starts to feel a lot like falling.

There are so many moments in this book that will make you laugh out loud.

The memory of his snail bag is still burnt in her memory.

This rom-com shines with vibrant side characters—especially Gem’s incredible mom and her lovable uncle. But it’s the emotional payoff and character growth that hit hardest. The Ick blends laugh-out-loud moments with a tender look at emotional healing and learning to trust someone who keeps choosing you. If you love fake dating romance novels with emotionally complex heroines and cinnamon roll book boyfriends, The Ick needs to be at the top of your TBR. It’s a must-read for fans of layered romantic comedies that balance heart and humor beautifully.

Romantic Comedy | Fake Dating Romance | Golden Retriever Hero | Emotionally Guarded Heroine
3rd Person POV

Want more?

Check out this Author Spotlight with Holly McCulloch