Book Review: Text Appeal by Kylie Scott
Kylie Scott delivers a pitch-perfect small-town rom-com in Text Appeal, blending laugh-out-loud humor, heartfelt connections, and a quirky cast of characters you can’t help but adore. With a single POV from Riley Cooper, the story keeps you tightly tethered to her snarky, endearing perspective. While there are moments where I would’ve loved a glimpse into Connor’s thoughts, it doesn’t detract from the story—it’s just my greedy need for more insight into the broody leading man.
The audiobook, narrated by Andi Arndt, is an absolute delight. Her performance elevates the text, capturing Riley’s wit, Connor’s quiet depth, and the quirky charm of the seaside town of Port Stewart. If you’re an audio fan, this is one to add to your playlist ASAP.
The Story
Text Appeal kicks off with a wrong-number text that spirals hilariously and unexpectedly. Riley, a romance author seeking inspiration in her new seaside retreat, finds herself caught up in the drama of a town where everyone knows everyone’s business. Thanks to her inherited phone number (formerly belonging to Connor), Riley is unwittingly swept into his complicated love life.
Connor, Port Stewart’s resident broody yet swoony heartthrob, has a lot of baggage, including an ex with a flair for drama and a town full of people with opinions. When Riley and Connor team up for a fake dating scheme, the sparks fly—along with plenty of laughs and a surprising amount of heart.
Riley’s journey is enriched by the unexpected allies she finds in Ava and Katja, two women who could easily have been stereotypes but instead emerge as her fiercest supporters. Their friendship dynamic is sharp, witty, and heartwarming—truly bestie goals.
And Connor? Oh, Connor. He starts off quiet and introspective, but when he decides to open up, he goes for it. His vulnerability, paired with his deep well of emotions, makes him utterly irresistible.
What Stands Out
This book has everything I crave in a romance:
- A Broody Hero & Snarky Heroine: Riley’s sass meets Connor’s broody intensity in a pairing that’s equal parts fiery and sweet.
- Quirky Small-Town Drama: Port Stewart feels alive, a character in its own right, with its nosy neighbors, charming gossip, and vibrant community.
- A Cast of Lovable Misfits: Ava and Katja steal scenes and hearts with their snarky yet supportive friendship, while other townies add depth and humor to the story.
Kylie Scott also excels at avoiding clichés. Riley and Ava’s dynamic could have been adversarial, but instead, it blossoms into a wonderful, unexpected friendship.
Unputdownable
Once you start Text Appeal, there’s no putting it down. The combination of Riley’s charm, Connor’s quiet allure, and the chaos of their intertwined lives is pure magic. You’ll fall in love with Port Stewart and wish for more time with its quirky, lovable residents.
This book is perfect for fans of small-town romance, fake dating, and characters that feel like friends by the end. So settle in—you’ll want to devour this in one sitting.
Blurb Recap:
Romance author Riley Cooper moves to the seaside town of Port Stewart for inspiration but ends up entangled in the life of its former prom king, Connor, thanks to a mix-up with her new phone number. What begins as a fake relationship for convenience soon turns into something neither expected—real feelings and a chance at true love.
Final Thoughts:
Text Appeal is everything you want in a rom-com: humor, heart, and a cast of characters you’ll remember long after you finish. Whether you’re reading or listening, this one’s a must for your TBR. Kylie Scott has knocked it out of the park!
