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One to Watch
Goodreads Choice Award
Nominee for Readers' Favorite Romance (2020), Nominee for Readers' Favorite Debut Novel (2020)Bea Schumacher is a devastatingly stylish plus-size fashion blogger who has amazing friends, a devoted family, legions of Insta followers--and a massively broken heart. Like the rest of America, Bea indulges in her weekly obsession: the hit reality show Main Squeeze. The fantasy dates! The kiss-off rejections! The surprising amount of guys named Chad! But Bea is sick and tired of the lack of body diversity on the show. Since when is being a size zero a prerequisite for getting engaged on television?
Just when Bea has sworn off dating altogether, she gets an intriguing call: Main Squeeze wants her to be its next star, surrounded by men vying for her affections. Bea agrees, on one condition--under no circumstances will she actually fall in love. She's in this to supercharge her career, subvert harmful anti-fat beauty standards, inspire women across America, and get a free hot air balloon ride. That's it.
But when the cameras start rolling, Bea realizes things are more complicated than she anticipated. She's in a whirlwind of sumptuous couture, Internet culture wars, sexy suitors, and an opportunity (or two, or five) to find messy, real-life love in the midst of a made-for-TV fairy tale.
Just when Bea has sworn off dating altogether, she gets an intriguing call: Main Squeeze wants her to be its next star, surrounded by men vying for her affections. Bea agrees, on one condition--under no circumstances will she actually fall in love. She's in this to supercharge her career, subvert harmful anti-fat beauty standards, inspire women across America, and get a free hot air balloon ride. That's it.
But when the cameras start rolling, Bea realizes things are more complicated than she anticipated. She's in a whirlwind of sumptuous couture, Internet culture wars, sexy suitors, and an opportunity (or two, or five) to find messy, real-life love in the midst of a made-for-TV fairy tale.
417 pages, Paperback
First published July 7, 2020
2077 people are currently reading
108337 people want to read
About the author
Kate Stayman-London
4 books2,491 followersHi! Thanks so much for coming to my GoodReads page. You can also find me on Insta (@katestaymanlondon) and TikTok (@authorkatestaymanlondon) if you're into that sort of thing. Official bio below, happy reading! xx
Kate Stayman-London is a novelist, screenwriter, political strategist, and bisexual double Libra. Her bestselling debut, One to Watch, was named a best book of the year by Time, NPR, Marie Claire, Mashable, and more. Kate has written for political icons including Hillary Clinton, Barack Obama, and Cher; she is also a television writer-producer and proud WGA captain. When not writing, Kate enjoys fabulous trips with friends, rewatching Buffy, and fighting for reproductive justice––as well as justice for Speak Now, Evermore, and Reputation. She lives in Los Angeles.
Kate Stayman-London is a novelist, screenwriter, political strategist, and bisexual double Libra. Her bestselling debut, One to Watch, was named a best book of the year by Time, NPR, Marie Claire, Mashable, and more. Kate has written for political icons including Hillary Clinton, Barack Obama, and Cher; she is also a television writer-producer and proud WGA captain. When not writing, Kate enjoys fabulous trips with friends, rewatching Buffy, and fighting for reproductive justice––as well as justice for Speak Now, Evermore, and Reputation. She lives in Los Angeles.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 14,243 reviews
September 23, 2020
This is such an addicting rom-com book with so many twists and turns, just like binging a guilty pleasure TV show! You can tell this is lovingly crafted for reality TV viewers because it has so many juicy plot developments and drama. I appreciate that the story became more than just reality show shenanigans and also tapped into the protagonist’s own emotional journey with self-love and acceptance. The addition of blog posts, magazine articles, tweets, etc. really reflected our culture and how we treat (and often politicize) plus size people, almost to a painfully accurate degree. This is the perfect book to buddy read with a friend because there were so many moments (both infuriating and hopeful) to yell to each other about. I had a lot of fun reading the entire time reading it and couldn’t wait to find out what happened next. All in all, a very solid and feel-good story that would be perfect for dating reality show fans.
July 10, 2020
I went into this one without really having any expectations and it ended up BLOWING ME AWAY. I loved this SO MUCH. I can't find the words to express how much it meant to me to see a fat girl THRIVING the way that Bea thrived in this book. I'm seriously just so happy. This book was fantastic. If you're like me and you also love love, YOU NEED TO READ THIS BOOK. It was SO MUCH FUN. I CAN'T STOP YELLING IN CAPS LOCK ABOUT IT YOU JUST NEED TO READ IT. Also- I highly recommend the audiobook! It was really well done and made the experience EVEN MORE enjoyable. Just all around 10/10 recommend this one. IT WAS SO GOOD.
TW: fatphobia, cheating
TW: fatphobia, cheating
November 14, 2021
One of my fast, smart, entertaining, feel-good books!
It’s refreshing, relaxing and motivational. This is not only plus size fashion blogger’s journey to find her love of her life, it’s her inner journey to realize she deserved to be loved, cared and she have to make peace with her appearance and inner fears to live brighter future she dreamed of.
Bea Schumacher’s life changes when she takes a trip in Paris (lately I read so much books about the city and I start to believe it has its own magical powers!) and change her fashion style, gaining more self-confidence and voila, she starts making videos, finding her power at social media with her creative ideas and now she gets offer from Main Squeeze reality show. Her brand new occupation requires fantasy dates! Another version Blind Date meets Bachelor meets Love is Blind (my husband started to watch it, can you believe it? I’m afraid the home quarantine will eventually fry the rest of his brain cells!)
Bea’s heart is already broken after her long time crush a. k. a her best friend (she should make better friend choices!) and she had a one night stand and he ghosted her! Yes, bastard ruined her self-esteem and now she deserves to have fun. And maybe but just maybe, she can find someone she may truly fall in love.
I think her dating parts are a little superficial, unrealistic but the parts about Bea’s inner fight, her vulnerability and her insecurities prevent her share true self with the world are remarkable. Those sincere parts help us connect with the heroine and understand her pain, her struggle and her need of approval.
Overall: Even though I didn’t get interested the reality show premise and dating parts, I loved Bea and her self-discovery journey and I also enjoyed the supporting characters who contributed Bea’s meaningful journey. (Especially Sam, Asher and Marin) So I give 3.5 stars and I’m naturally rounding them up to 4!
So much thanks to NetGalley and Random House Publishing/ Dial Press for sharing this amazing ARC in exchange my honest review and help us get through these stressful days with the healing power of great books.
It’s refreshing, relaxing and motivational. This is not only plus size fashion blogger’s journey to find her love of her life, it’s her inner journey to realize she deserved to be loved, cared and she have to make peace with her appearance and inner fears to live brighter future she dreamed of.
Bea Schumacher’s life changes when she takes a trip in Paris (lately I read so much books about the city and I start to believe it has its own magical powers!) and change her fashion style, gaining more self-confidence and voila, she starts making videos, finding her power at social media with her creative ideas and now she gets offer from Main Squeeze reality show. Her brand new occupation requires fantasy dates! Another version Blind Date meets Bachelor meets Love is Blind (my husband started to watch it, can you believe it? I’m afraid the home quarantine will eventually fry the rest of his brain cells!)
Bea’s heart is already broken after her long time crush a. k. a her best friend (she should make better friend choices!) and she had a one night stand and he ghosted her! Yes, bastard ruined her self-esteem and now she deserves to have fun. And maybe but just maybe, she can find someone she may truly fall in love.
I think her dating parts are a little superficial, unrealistic but the parts about Bea’s inner fight, her vulnerability and her insecurities prevent her share true self with the world are remarkable. Those sincere parts help us connect with the heroine and understand her pain, her struggle and her need of approval.
Overall: Even though I didn’t get interested the reality show premise and dating parts, I loved Bea and her self-discovery journey and I also enjoyed the supporting characters who contributed Bea’s meaningful journey. (Especially Sam, Asher and Marin) So I give 3.5 stars and I’m naturally rounding them up to 4!
So much thanks to NetGalley and Random House Publishing/ Dial Press for sharing this amazing ARC in exchange my honest review and help us get through these stressful days with the healing power of great books.
December 6, 2020
Decir que este libro me tuvo ultra picada es un understatement, NO LO PODÍA SOLTAR.
February 21, 2020
Yes indeed, I read this book in one day, that’s how much it pulled me in and made me want to keep reading. It’s so fun and entertaining and also super smart about body image and the way the media treats women and I loved it a lot. Anyone who watches The Bachelor should totally read this, but I don’t watch it and I loved it anyway!
October 27, 2020
*5+ stars* *Spoilers*
One to Watch is a story with nuance, profundity and a cast of diverse characters. I was wrung out and palpably affected by Bea and her not so merry band of suitors.
Note to authors: This is how you represent people. A plus-sized lead. A Black co-lead (who isn't the bad guy) and an Asian love interest who isn't the stereotypical tech nerd. Likewise, myriad sexual preferences were respectfully depicted. I swear this author exceeded expectations I never knew I had.
Stayman-London has now joined a small but elite group of authors who use their platform and brand in advocacy for those who've been oppressed and underrepresented. She's definitely one to watch.
Highly recommend!
August 9, 2020
2.5 Stars
So...
This was not the fat rep that I was looking for. Don't get me wrong. I really enjoyed the premise of the book. I love reality shows and I love reality shows that have a touch of romance. This book definitely was written in a way in which it grabs the readers attention and it makes you feel as though you're desperate to figure out/know who Bea ends up with in the end. I was always anxiously awaiting the next "episode" in the book to figure out who was going to stay and who was going to be sent home. I definitely understand how people who are fans of The Bachelor or The Bachelorette end up enjoying this book.
However...
Kate Stayman-London writes Bea to fit into fat stereotypes without possibly even realizing that she was doing so. There was a scene that depicted Bea ordering groceries and she ordered nothing but microwaveable dinners and bags of Doritos and other snacks. This fits into the stereotype that fat people are incapable of consuming other food outside out junk food and then she makes Bea fit into the stereotype of "fat people don't work out." It was just awkward to read a book that was seemingly attempting to uplift the voice of a plus-sized character while also writing that character into harmful stereotypes. I am fat/plus sized so it really wasn't the representation that I was looking for. While I resonated with Bea in other ways, these instances truly stuck out to me. I think that Kate did do a good job illustrating the insecurity that all people feel at some point in their life while putting on a "strong" front. I've dealt with that a lot. I've been strong on the outside, but still had to take some time to figure out the issues that I had internally. This may have been the reason why Bea didn't annoy me as a character when she had potential to drive me crazy. I think she truly wanted to be this strong powerful and self-confident woman on the inside as much as she way on the outside. I think the time frame in which Bea gained that internal confidence was unrealistic. It doesn't happen within the time frame of a reality TV show so her character development felt a bit unrealistic.
Also, I'm not sure if anyone else felt this way, but I felt like a few of the characters were used as a check list for representation. I read in an interview that Kate Stayman-London felt that as a queer woman she got tired of seeing shows like The Bachelor with little to know representation especially with body size, race, and sexual orientation/gender identity. So when she wrote this book she wanted to re-imagine The Bachelor in a different way. While I appreciate her attempting to create a more diverse reality show, I feel like characters were added to fit the criteria of Stayman-London's vision and they began to feel like check boxes. By doing this character didn't feel well-developed. In essence they were one-dimensional. It was particularly disheartening to read about a Black character that was essentially white-washed.
I think that this had potential to be such a powerful book for me, but it definitely fell short in quite a few areas.
So...
This was not the fat rep that I was looking for. Don't get me wrong. I really enjoyed the premise of the book. I love reality shows and I love reality shows that have a touch of romance. This book definitely was written in a way in which it grabs the readers attention and it makes you feel as though you're desperate to figure out/know who Bea ends up with in the end. I was always anxiously awaiting the next "episode" in the book to figure out who was going to stay and who was going to be sent home. I definitely understand how people who are fans of The Bachelor or The Bachelorette end up enjoying this book.
However...
Kate Stayman-London writes Bea to fit into fat stereotypes without possibly even realizing that she was doing so. There was a scene that depicted Bea ordering groceries and she ordered nothing but microwaveable dinners and bags of Doritos and other snacks. This fits into the stereotype that fat people are incapable of consuming other food outside out junk food and then she makes Bea fit into the stereotype of "fat people don't work out." It was just awkward to read a book that was seemingly attempting to uplift the voice of a plus-sized character while also writing that character into harmful stereotypes. I am fat/plus sized so it really wasn't the representation that I was looking for. While I resonated with Bea in other ways, these instances truly stuck out to me. I think that Kate did do a good job illustrating the insecurity that all people feel at some point in their life while putting on a "strong" front. I've dealt with that a lot. I've been strong on the outside, but still had to take some time to figure out the issues that I had internally. This may have been the reason why Bea didn't annoy me as a character when she had potential to drive me crazy. I think she truly wanted to be this strong powerful and self-confident woman on the inside as much as she way on the outside. I think the time frame in which Bea gained that internal confidence was unrealistic. It doesn't happen within the time frame of a reality TV show so her character development felt a bit unrealistic.
Also, I'm not sure if anyone else felt this way, but I felt like a few of the characters were used as a check list for representation. I read in an interview that Kate Stayman-London felt that as a queer woman she got tired of seeing shows like The Bachelor with little to know representation especially with body size, race, and sexual orientation/gender identity. So when she wrote this book she wanted to re-imagine The Bachelor in a different way. While I appreciate her attempting to create a more diverse reality show, I feel like characters were added to fit the criteria of Stayman-London's vision and they began to feel like check boxes. By doing this character didn't feel well-developed. In essence they were one-dimensional. It was particularly disheartening to read about a Black character that was essentially white-washed.
I think that this had potential to be such a powerful book for me, but it definitely fell short in quite a few areas.
Read
November 25, 2020probably wouldn't have picked this up on my own since it leans more women's fic/chick lit (hate those terms but dunno what else to call this) than romance BUT this was really good
June 5, 2020
This was so cute. If you’re a fan of The Bachelor or The Bachelorette then I feel like this is a must read. This book centers on this romantic reality show called Main Squeeze, which is obviously very much inspired by The Bachelorette. Our main character Bea is a plus size fashion blogger and she publicly criticizes the show for not having more diverse body types on the show. Then, the show asks her to be the star of the next season, and 25 men are selected to fight for her attention and date her.
This was entertaining and dramatic as fuck in all the same ways that The Bachelorette is. Even if it’s fictional, it’s great to see what it would be like for a plus size person to be the star of a show like this. This book also has some other diversity to it that I wasn’t expecting.
This book got me out of a reading slump and I was enjoying the hell out of it, but it’s not quite a five star book for me. I got kind of tired of the news articles and the fan reactions to the show after a while. And I feel like the timeline of this story didn’t always make sense to me, I feel like she went from 25 guys to 5 guys so fast and idk the pacing was just all over the place? Also I didn’t like how sometimes we missed the big moments in this book, we just find out about them from a news article, when I would’ve liked to see Bea’s reaction to things in the moment they happen. The ending of this book ended up being just okay for me, but mostly over the top dramatic in the same kind of way The Bachelorette is haha. I guess I wouldn’t recommend this if you’re reading it for the romance, but I would if you are reading it for the fun reality show drama kind of stuff, which is why I wanted to read it, because I’m trash for romantic reality tv shows. 😅
I’m kind of hoping the author writes a sequel with the next season of the show cause I would auto-buy that 😌
This was entertaining and dramatic as fuck in all the same ways that The Bachelorette is. Even if it’s fictional, it’s great to see what it would be like for a plus size person to be the star of a show like this. This book also has some other diversity to it that I wasn’t expecting.
This book got me out of a reading slump and I was enjoying the hell out of it, but it’s not quite a five star book for me. I got kind of tired of the news articles and the fan reactions to the show after a while. And I feel like the timeline of this story didn’t always make sense to me, I feel like she went from 25 guys to 5 guys so fast and idk the pacing was just all over the place? Also I didn’t like how sometimes we missed the big moments in this book, we just find out about them from a news article, when I would’ve liked to see Bea’s reaction to things in the moment they happen. The ending of this book ended up being just okay for me, but mostly over the top dramatic in the same kind of way The Bachelorette is haha. I guess I wouldn’t recommend this if you’re reading it for the romance, but I would if you are reading it for the fun reality show drama kind of stuff, which is why I wanted to read it, because I’m trash for romantic reality tv shows. 😅
I’m kind of hoping the author writes a sequel with the next season of the show cause I would auto-buy that 😌
August 6, 2020
Gah this was just perfection.
July 6, 2020
This review can be found on my blog, here.
Whenever Bea stepped into patisserie to order something for herself, there were ripples of sideward glances, even occasional bald stares, the accusation always implied: It's your own fault you look like this."
"Even though my date didn't say or do anything to make me feel unattractive, being in that bar surrounded by thin people (ah, Los Angeles), it was perilously easy to backslide into this ubiquitous idea that I'd be so much more happier if only I looked like them."
____________________________________
Written by Kate Stayman-London, this book tells the story of Bea Schumacher, a plus-sized social media influencer and fashion blogger. The book breaks down her life, revealing how she became the woman she is in the book. While touching on the struggles she faced for being larger than the majority of the world that she lived in. However, the main focus of the book reflects specifically on how she landed her dating show where men compete for her affection.
Normally, I absolutely love when books have diversity within them like showing different races and body types as the lead roles. This, however, was not at all what I had anticipated it would be. I don't usually like talking down about books, but I did not enjoy any piece of this book whatsoever. As a plus-sized woman, I thought I would relate to the main character seeing as many of the overweight community frequently have similar stories and feelings. Instead, I felt like this was a terrible representation of larger women or larger people as a whole. Repeatedly in the book, the author tried causing us to sympathize with a woman who constantly insulted others for being thin or not finding her appealing. I hate when others attempt to make people feel awful for having a preference in what they like. I think this is something that should be unencouraged, you cannot claim someone is fat shaming you just because they don't find you attractive. Meanwhile, Bea spends years of her life obsessing over one man that she constantly describes as a "perfect" or "model-like" man. She is an entire hypocrite. She thinks it's okay for her to be attracted to a certain type of man but if anyone else is unattracted to her then it's wrong.
Not only was the hypocrisy bothersome, but her outlook on the world was also disturbing. Every place she went, she let her insecurities cause her to believe ill in others. Claiming she was being judged for her weight simply because people looked at her. It's an unhealthy thing to assume the worst of others because you have a hard time believing people could be looking at you and thinking something positive. She criticized restaurants, shops, and bars just because she felt out of place without anyone doing anything to make her feel this way. I understand what insecurity is because I likewise suffer it at times. However, I don't think that is an excuse to condemn others who have done nothing to deserve it.
The final thing I detested about this book was the writing format. I feel like fifty percent of this book contained nothing but texts, emails, blog postings, and other news outlets. It took me out of the story more than a few times. Mostly because not only did I already not feel like a connection with any of the characters, this was just a lazy way to describe what happened in the story. Rather than showing news postings and texts, I would have liked seeing the main character experience it and go through the emotions of things. She didn't. So it felt lazy and utterly boring.
The character overall was annoying, rude, hypocritical, and one-note. As I did not complete the book, she likely got better in the end, but I just personally could not stomach this. I may try once more in the future.
November 28, 2020
Let’s get all cheesy and cliche and say that I can’t express how much this book means to me. Bea’s story hit me where it hurt the most and I adored it. Too much.
October 15, 2020
In One to Watch, plus-size fashion blogger Bea critiques the stereotypical casting of reality dating show Main Squeeze. Following her post, which goes viral, Bea is offered the chance to star in the next season of the show. After some hesitation, she decides to accept, maintaining the mindset that she will not fall for any of the men.
Bea meets a variety of bachelors on Main Squeeze, some she’s skeptical of, and others she’s immediately drawn to. She does question their motives, and her insecurities and self-doubt play a role in this story.
If you’re a fan of The Bachelor or The Bachelorette, you might like this book. If you’re not a fan of the show, you might still like it. I have only watched one season of The Bachelor, one of the very first ones, back when I was in high school. While I love my share of reality TV, this show is not my jam.
Overall, I enjoyed One to Watch, an easy to read debut. Even if not specific to body image, most women can find at least some aspect of Bea’s mentality relatable. There were predictable elements in the story and while at first I appreciated the various forms of media included: articles, podcasts, group texts, etc., it felt like there were a lot of these as the book progressed.
Bea meets a variety of bachelors on Main Squeeze, some she’s skeptical of, and others she’s immediately drawn to. She does question their motives, and her insecurities and self-doubt play a role in this story.
If you’re a fan of The Bachelor or The Bachelorette, you might like this book. If you’re not a fan of the show, you might still like it. I have only watched one season of The Bachelor, one of the very first ones, back when I was in high school. While I love my share of reality TV, this show is not my jam.
Overall, I enjoyed One to Watch, an easy to read debut. Even if not specific to body image, most women can find at least some aspect of Bea’s mentality relatable. There were predictable elements in the story and while at first I appreciated the various forms of media included: articles, podcasts, group texts, etc., it felt like there were a lot of these as the book progressed.
August 13, 2020
Boy, I sure did love this one!!
Bea Schumacher is a popular plus-size fashion blogger, determined to show women they can look and feel beautiful, no matter what the fashion world and others may demonstrate.
But while she demonstrates confidence and pride outwardly, she doesn’t always feel worthy inside. And when the one man she’s been in love with forever leaves her hanging and hurting one time too many, she wonders if she’ll ever find the right person.
After a ranting blog post about a popular dating show’s lack of body diversity, the show’s eager new producer offers Bea the chance to become the next bachelorette on "Main Squeeze," so she could choose one lucky suitor among men vying for her heart. Bea wants to do it to show the world that you don’t have to be stick-thin to be worthy of love, and she hopes that she can further her career by appearing on the show.
However, the one thing Bea does NOT want to do is fall in love. Yet as much as she steels herself against getting her emotions involved, when amidst a group of handsome men (some of whom seem genuinely interested in her), going on romantic dates to beautiful locales, and being dressed in gorgeous outfits, how can her heart not be moved? But is true love possible from a show like this, or does her heart still belong to the man from her past?
I’ve never watched “The Bachelor” in its various permutations but I was utterly hooked on One to Watch . Having struggled with my weight most of my life, I recognized some of the things that Bea felt and thought the book did a great job in being realistic about the various reactions people had to her. All of the various dates and manipulations were pretty interesting as well, and I wondered how closely they hewed to the shows this was modeled on.
This is a funny, sexy, emotional book that I stayed up super late to finish. I could totally see this as a movie or series I’d absolutely binge watch!! Kudos to Kate Stayman-London for such a great story!!
Check out my list of the best books I read in 2019 at https://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com/2020/01/the-best-books-i-read-in-2019.html.
Check out my list of the best books of the decade at https://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com/2020/01/my-favorite-books-of-decade.html.
See all of my reviews at itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com.
Follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/the.bookishworld.of.yrralh/.
Bea Schumacher is a popular plus-size fashion blogger, determined to show women they can look and feel beautiful, no matter what the fashion world and others may demonstrate.
But while she demonstrates confidence and pride outwardly, she doesn’t always feel worthy inside. And when the one man she’s been in love with forever leaves her hanging and hurting one time too many, she wonders if she’ll ever find the right person.
After a ranting blog post about a popular dating show’s lack of body diversity, the show’s eager new producer offers Bea the chance to become the next bachelorette on "Main Squeeze," so she could choose one lucky suitor among men vying for her heart. Bea wants to do it to show the world that you don’t have to be stick-thin to be worthy of love, and she hopes that she can further her career by appearing on the show.
However, the one thing Bea does NOT want to do is fall in love. Yet as much as she steels herself against getting her emotions involved, when amidst a group of handsome men (some of whom seem genuinely interested in her), going on romantic dates to beautiful locales, and being dressed in gorgeous outfits, how can her heart not be moved? But is true love possible from a show like this, or does her heart still belong to the man from her past?
I’ve never watched “The Bachelor” in its various permutations but I was utterly hooked on One to Watch . Having struggled with my weight most of my life, I recognized some of the things that Bea felt and thought the book did a great job in being realistic about the various reactions people had to her. All of the various dates and manipulations were pretty interesting as well, and I wondered how closely they hewed to the shows this was modeled on.
This is a funny, sexy, emotional book that I stayed up super late to finish. I could totally see this as a movie or series I’d absolutely binge watch!! Kudos to Kate Stayman-London for such a great story!!
Check out my list of the best books I read in 2019 at https://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com/2020/01/the-best-books-i-read-in-2019.html.
Check out my list of the best books of the decade at https://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com/2020/01/my-favorite-books-of-decade.html.
See all of my reviews at itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com.
Follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/the.bookishworld.of.yrralh/.
January 8, 2023
3.5 stars
I’m SO conflicted with this one. First off, I absolutely five star loved the first half. I thought it was so fantastic. I could relate to Bea and I found myself laughing out loud at so many parts. It was funny and heartwarming and just everything. 50-80% was also good, but then right after 80% things took a turn for me and I didn’t love all the drama and twists and turns. It was just too much for this reader. The last 5% I also really liked but that 15% towards the end brought my rating down big time, unfortunately.
Also- I need to get this off my chest for just a second… as an avid romance reader who reads hundreds of romance books a year- this is NOT what I would call a romance. Sure, it has some romance in it, but to me- not a romance. What it was was a fantastic debut novel. One to Watch is so well written and has amazing representation. Even though there was a section I didn’t love, I would recommend it to other readers because overall I liked it a lot and that issue could have definitely been more of a ‘me’ thing.
I’m SO conflicted with this one. First off, I absolutely five star loved the first half. I thought it was so fantastic. I could relate to Bea and I found myself laughing out loud at so many parts. It was funny and heartwarming and just everything. 50-80% was also good, but then right after 80% things took a turn for me and I didn’t love all the drama and twists and turns. It was just too much for this reader. The last 5% I also really liked but that 15% towards the end brought my rating down big time, unfortunately.
Also- I need to get this off my chest for just a second… as an avid romance reader who reads hundreds of romance books a year- this is NOT what I would call a romance. Sure, it has some romance in it, but to me- not a romance. What it was was a fantastic debut novel. One to Watch is so well written and has amazing representation. Even though there was a section I didn’t love, I would recommend it to other readers because overall I liked it a lot and that issue could have definitely been more of a ‘me’ thing.
Audio book source: Libby (library borrow)
Story Rating: 3.5 stars
Narrator: Kristen Sieh
Narration Rating: 5 stars
Genre: Contemporary fiction/women’s fiction
Length: 11 hours and 42 minutes
January 30, 2025
I could count on the fingers of one of my hands the times I was left speechless by a story, the times my emotions were so strong my brain couldn't put them into words, the times I cried for so long and so much I was dehydrated.
It was scary. It was gut-wrenching and sad. It was kinda hopeful, too. And it’s the best representation of a plus-size character I’ve ever read.
Imagine recording your worst fears and your nonsense about why you hate yourself, and then having to watch it; you keep thinking “That's just nonsense, who wouldn't love someone like you? You should be less harsh with yourself” but, of course, you can't be.
Not only it’s easier to be nicer with anyone but yourself, but it's also easier not to think too much about your motives in favour of a night of sleep.
If you're like me or Bea, if you have problems with the person you are because of others, if you've grown up in a certain way because you've always been different, taking up space that was yours in the first place but felt like it was unfairly occupied… well, there's nothing for me to add then that this book was made for you by someone who truly sees you.
↠ 5 stars
It was scary. It was gut-wrenching and sad. It was kinda hopeful, too. And it’s the best representation of a plus-size character I’ve ever read.
Imagine recording your worst fears and your nonsense about why you hate yourself, and then having to watch it; you keep thinking “That's just nonsense, who wouldn't love someone like you? You should be less harsh with yourself” but, of course, you can't be.
Not only it’s easier to be nicer with anyone but yourself, but it's also easier not to think too much about your motives in favour of a night of sleep.
If you're like me or Bea, if you have problems with the person you are because of others, if you've grown up in a certain way because you've always been different, taking up space that was yours in the first place but felt like it was unfairly occupied… well, there's nothing for me to add then that this book was made for you by someone who truly sees you.
↠ 5 stars
July 13, 2020
Anyone with a reality show addiction can confirm that body shapes aren’t that diverse in our favorite shows. Appearances rank high across the lifestyle, dating, or competition-based programs we know and love, and the contestants seem to be selected based upon how well they fit a “traditionally” attractive mold. But in One to Watch, Kate Stayman-London’s debut novel, a plus-sized woman becomes the one to catch in a Bachelorette-style dating show.
In the early pages, Bea Schumacher uses her popular fashion blog to call out one of her favorite reality shows, Main Squeeze, for not featuring more women who look like her, a self-accepting size 20. The show responds by offering Bea herself a chance to find love on the show.
Bea accepts mainly because it will open doors for her professional career. She has recently gotten her heart broken by a complicated friends-turned-lovers situation that ended with a devastating ghosting. At first, Bea is invested in the show because of all it represents, but understandably remains apprehensive about actually opening up her heart again.
Episode by episode of Main Squeeze, we see Bea go on dates with the men and fight with her own insecurities that have plagued her since high school. Because even if a larger woman doesn’t hate her body, she is still painfully aware of the scrutiny of everyone’s eyes on her, especially if those eyes number in the millions. The classic dating show question, “are you here for the right reasons?” is doubly important for Bea as she wonders if any or all of the men are secretly “not that into” her solely because of her shape.
The reception Bea receives from the public is brutally realistic as she is supported in some corners and torn down in others. It’s part of what makes this story feel so real. That plus the hilarious addition of podcast transcripts and Slack channel discussions featuring commentaries by viewers who are, true to form, far too invested in the outcome of the show, will make any reality show fan feel oh so deliciously seen.
It’s nearly impossible not to start rooting for your favorite contestant as the book goes on. As it typically goes on these kinds of shows, the men start out as caricatures based on their hometowns and/or occupations, but as the season progresses, we find out what each of them have to offer and we get to see their bonds with Bea strengthen.
But this is reality TV, so the producers have some surprises up their sleeve. The drama is edge-of-your-seat good and Bea is a character you can root for as she navigates this new wild world and figures out what it is she really wants.
One to Watch is a sassy and smart take on reality television and there’s no way you’ll want to stop after one episode...er, chapter.
In the early pages, Bea Schumacher uses her popular fashion blog to call out one of her favorite reality shows, Main Squeeze, for not featuring more women who look like her, a self-accepting size 20. The show responds by offering Bea herself a chance to find love on the show.
Bea accepts mainly because it will open doors for her professional career. She has recently gotten her heart broken by a complicated friends-turned-lovers situation that ended with a devastating ghosting. At first, Bea is invested in the show because of all it represents, but understandably remains apprehensive about actually opening up her heart again.
Episode by episode of Main Squeeze, we see Bea go on dates with the men and fight with her own insecurities that have plagued her since high school. Because even if a larger woman doesn’t hate her body, she is still painfully aware of the scrutiny of everyone’s eyes on her, especially if those eyes number in the millions. The classic dating show question, “are you here for the right reasons?” is doubly important for Bea as she wonders if any or all of the men are secretly “not that into” her solely because of her shape.
The reception Bea receives from the public is brutally realistic as she is supported in some corners and torn down in others. It’s part of what makes this story feel so real. That plus the hilarious addition of podcast transcripts and Slack channel discussions featuring commentaries by viewers who are, true to form, far too invested in the outcome of the show, will make any reality show fan feel oh so deliciously seen.
It’s nearly impossible not to start rooting for your favorite contestant as the book goes on. As it typically goes on these kinds of shows, the men start out as caricatures based on their hometowns and/or occupations, but as the season progresses, we find out what each of them have to offer and we get to see their bonds with Bea strengthen.
But this is reality TV, so the producers have some surprises up their sleeve. The drama is edge-of-your-seat good and Bea is a character you can root for as she navigates this new wild world and figures out what it is she really wants.
One to Watch is a sassy and smart take on reality television and there’s no way you’ll want to stop after one episode...er, chapter.
March 18, 2021
I know you all are dying for an update. I am now 3 seasons into the Bachelor franchise, and I am happy to report that the book is indeed better than the show. However, I think I maybe hooked into the whole Bachelor discourse (especially the latest season), and I can't wait to see what new lows this pandemic is going to make me reach.
_________
1) This is not a romance novel.
2) I have never had any desire to watch Bachelor/Bachelorette.
3) Do I need to start watching Bachelor/Bachelorette?
This book is a page turner! But outside of it being an unputdownable trashy reality TV bonanza, this book succeeded at offering a clever takedown of the Bachelor franchise, at presenting an astute commentary on the discourse around reality TV, fatness and women in the public eye, and, somehow, found positive things to say about the possibilities a show like Bachelorette can present. Well, color me surprised.
I am not exactly down with the ending, but can be talked into it.
_________
1) This is not a romance novel.
2) I have never had any desire to watch Bachelor/Bachelorette.
3) Do I need to start watching Bachelor/Bachelorette?
This book is a page turner! But outside of it being an unputdownable trashy reality TV bonanza, this book succeeded at offering a clever takedown of the Bachelor franchise, at presenting an astute commentary on the discourse around reality TV, fatness and women in the public eye, and, somehow, found positive things to say about the possibilities a show like Bachelorette can present. Well, color me surprised.
I am not exactly down with the ending, but can be talked into it.
May 10, 2021
thought i was going to meet the fictional version of ✦ Ashley Graham ✦, but what i got was a DUD. who am i kidding, right?? apparently, thats just too much to ask. 😭
heres another plus-size heroine portrayed as,
say what, body positivity my a$$!!
this book was upsetting and triggering. even for me who’s the very opposite of fat. i think that women no matter the body type grapple with body image enough that we can all empathize with the heroine in some way. even so, as much as i sympathized with her putting on a facade and her self-doubting, i was also frustrated. please, not the heroine finding her self-worth after joining some dating show. 😭 though, i guess thats better than never feeling good about herself.
speaking of which, i’ve never been one to indulge in dating shows like The Bachelor or The Bachelorette, but i think the book does a pretty good job in exposing how fabricated and manipulative reality TV sometimes are. NGL the producer of the show in this book annoyed the heck outta me cause i thought she was a b!tch and so insensitive. the dating show here is also juicy and full of drama. so if youre a fan of such programs, i think you’ll enjoy this.
on another note, the book also features a range of diverse characters. though, to me it seemed to be more for the purpose of fulfilling the diversity checklist than a genuine rep. i didnt agree with how the story took a turn at the last 30%, but what else is new?? i wouldnt call this a romance. womens fiction or chick lit is more like it. i think that the format of the book is interesting, but there are probably those who dont like and will find it irritating or confusing.
bottom line, i appreciated the character development, and im sure there are people who can resonate with this book and find it authentic. this just isnt exactly the fat rep i was looking for. 😬
still, this is a good book to BR with a friend!
(read as an audiobook)
heres another plus-size heroine portrayed as,
➝ strong & confident on the outside but whiny & deeply insecure on the inside,
➝ always suspicious of people looking at her and afraid they’ll only see her weight,
➝ doesnt believe that conventionally attractive men could be into her; YET she—
➝ spends yearsss pining after one of those exact type of men and lets him yank her chains any chance he gets; she also—
➝ plays into the stereotypes she claims she wants to subvert.
say what, body positivity my a$$!!
this book was upsetting and triggering. even for me who’s the very opposite of fat. i think that women no matter the body type grapple with body image enough that we can all empathize with the heroine in some way. even so, as much as i sympathized with her putting on a facade and her self-doubting, i was also frustrated. please, not the heroine finding her self-worth after joining some dating show. 😭 though, i guess thats better than never feeling good about herself.
speaking of which, i’ve never been one to indulge in dating shows like The Bachelor or The Bachelorette, but i think the book does a pretty good job in exposing how fabricated and manipulative reality TV sometimes are. NGL the producer of the show in this book annoyed the heck outta me cause i thought she was a b!tch and so insensitive. the dating show here is also juicy and full of drama. so if youre a fan of such programs, i think you’ll enjoy this.
on another note, the book also features a range of diverse characters. though, to me it seemed to be more for the purpose of fulfilling the diversity checklist than a genuine rep. i didnt agree with how the story took a turn at the last 30%, but what else is new?? i wouldnt call this a romance. womens fiction or chick lit is more like it. i think that the format of the book is interesting, but there are probably those who dont like and will find it irritating or confusing.
bottom line, i appreciated the character development, and im sure there are people who can resonate with this book and find it authentic. this just isnt exactly the fat rep i was looking for. 😬
still, this is a good book to BR with a friend!
(read as an audiobook)
February 24, 2023
This is romance. I loved the character Bea, and I liked that she was plus size. I also like this bring up some of the problems with being plus size. I really did not like how the book changed between normal text, to emails, phone texts, messages, blogs posts, and more. It just took so much from the book for me, and that is the only reason I give it two stars. I was kindly provided an e-copy of this book by the publisher or author via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review , and I want to send a big Thank you to them for that.
You can get this book from book of the month
https://www.mybotm.com/zr12wnytgc8?sh...
You can get this book from book of the month
https://www.mybotm.com/zr12wnytgc8?sh...
Want to read
November 22, 2020DNF at 150 pages.
This was a big yikes and so far from a book for me. It just might be me, but I could not stand anything about this book. Bea is NOT body positive whatsoever, even though she's a plus-size fashion blogger. Everyone was so nasty to her about there weight and she was so insecure about it. This is definitely not the book it was marketed as.
I urge you to check out Bethany's review because she said everything I was thinking!
This was a big yikes and so far from a book for me. It just might be me, but I could not stand anything about this book. Bea is NOT body positive whatsoever, even though she's a plus-size fashion blogger. Everyone was so nasty to her about there weight and she was so insecure about it. This is definitely not the book it was marketed as.
I urge you to check out Bethany's review because she said everything I was thinking!
July 5, 2020
I was really excited for this one, but it was still so much better than I even expected. The writing itself is fantastic--effortlessly fun and clever, with a multimedia aspect that somehow never felt gimmicky (I'm honestly not usually a fan of these kinds of elements, but... I genuinely loved it? The podcast transcripts were possibly my favorite part of the book). Beyond that, I found the tension impeccable. I truly had no idea how this book was going to end, and that made my reading experience incredibly propulsive. Read it in a day and a half.
September 27, 2020
I should not have picked this as I belong to the category who think the "reality tv" is scripted down to each word. Whatever is said and tried to show is for publicity and put on a show for to win the ratings and momentous fame. In this time of internet you are famous in the morning but by the evening everyone forget about you because there is always someone new to take/steal that fame. But I try to read something light for weekend reads, that cover and that blurb sold me the book despite my reservations about the reality tv shows.
I was excited to see how the author will play out the story about a plus size woman on a Bachelorette of show looking for love who also wanted diverse men competing for her. And the book failed me on both aspects. I wanted the protagonist to be confident of herself, her body but it was all sham. She was far from comfortable with her body, she blames her size for not having a love life and how her would be lover be ashamed of her. And this drama was stretched for almost 90% of the story. Sadly, she was not what I was expecting and not what the blurb sold me this story to be.
About the diversity, I can count on my finger tips about how many times the race or the body types of these suitors was mentioned. I felt cheated on with this lack luster drama. It was like watching any reality show with no win for body type and diversity which this story tries to sell.
Still there were one-two things that I liked about this book. 1) The social commentary about how people sat behind the safety of their computer screen and spit the poison about everything good and bad irrespective of whether it was effecting them or not. 2) the reunion chapter, why could not be the whole book like that?
But no reason to suffer other 7-8 chapters before you reach the reunion part.
I was excited to see how the author will play out the story about a plus size woman on a Bachelorette of show looking for love who also wanted diverse men competing for her. And the book failed me on both aspects. I wanted the protagonist to be confident of herself, her body but it was all sham. She was far from comfortable with her body, she blames her size for not having a love life and how her would be lover be ashamed of her. And this drama was stretched for almost 90% of the story. Sadly, she was not what I was expecting and not what the blurb sold me this story to be.
About the diversity, I can count on my finger tips about how many times the race or the body types of these suitors was mentioned. I felt cheated on with this lack luster drama. It was like watching any reality show with no win for body type and diversity which this story tries to sell.
Still there were one-two things that I liked about this book. 1) The social commentary about how people sat behind the safety of their computer screen and spit the poison about everything good and bad irrespective of whether it was effecting them or not. 2) the reunion chapter, why could not be the whole book like that?
But no reason to suffer other 7-8 chapters before you reach the reunion part.
June 14, 2021
2020 Fall Bingo (#fallintorombingo🍁): Plus-size Heroine on the Cover
Content Notes:
2.5 stars
Sooo... I have no idea how to rate this. I truly don’t. I devoured it in a few hours once my library hold came in, but I also disliked so many things? I couldn’t quit, either. It’s like, I know I’m reading something that scratches my trash id but also the Smart Criticism part of my brain is saying, “Hold on, what the fuck just happened and why aren’t we mad about this?”
Ironically, this conflict is what I feel when I watch The Bachelor. Fitting. I would not recommend this book without a gazillion caveats. The most important of them: the hatred Bea endures from trash/miserable stains on the human species is very real and very painful. It’s a lot, and please don’t read this book if you think 400 pages of external fatphobia will hurt you.
At the same time, I don’t think the book is bad fat rep either. I really related to Bea’s insecurities, self-love, and advocacy for fat women in the fashion industry. I don’t want to go into detail because once I start, I’ll end up writing thousands of words. I have complex feelings, mostly in the positive and “I don’t know” direction. I need a book club where we can argue about this book, because there’s a lot to talk about! At the end of the day, Bea loves herself and her body; she has zero intention of ever changing herself. And she finds a man who loves her exactly the way she is. That’s a win for me, conflicted feelings aside.
I truly have no clue how to rate this book, so I’m going with 2.5 “well, I don’t fucking know” stars. The funny thing is I disliked so many characters by the end (even Bea to a degree. I didn’t like anyone)!!! I wasn’t in love with the final ship. Hell, I was shipping these random Main Squeeze fantasy league players (Beth/Colin antagonize each other in the frequent excerpts of fantasy league texts) more than I was shipping Bea with her suitors! Then again, I devoured the story and couldn’t take my eyes off the page. I realize that I’m contradicting myself here. In my defense, it’s 2:30 am and my brain cells are too sleepy for reviewing.
As my friend Jenica said to me, it’s “right in the middle as compulsively readable, messy as hell, and somewhat problematic.” That just about sums it up.
Content Notes:
2.5 stars
Sooo... I have no idea how to rate this. I truly don’t. I devoured it in a few hours once my library hold came in, but I also disliked so many things? I couldn’t quit, either. It’s like, I know I’m reading something that scratches my trash id but also the Smart Criticism part of my brain is saying, “Hold on, what the fuck just happened and why aren’t we mad about this?”
Ironically, this conflict is what I feel when I watch The Bachelor. Fitting. I would not recommend this book without a gazillion caveats. The most important of them: the hatred Bea endures from trash/miserable stains on the human species is very real and very painful. It’s a lot, and please don’t read this book if you think 400 pages of external fatphobia will hurt you.
At the same time, I don’t think the book is bad fat rep either. I really related to Bea’s insecurities, self-love, and advocacy for fat women in the fashion industry. I don’t want to go into detail because once I start, I’ll end up writing thousands of words. I have complex feelings, mostly in the positive and “I don’t know” direction. I need a book club where we can argue about this book, because there’s a lot to talk about! At the end of the day, Bea loves herself and her body; she has zero intention of ever changing herself. And she finds a man who loves her exactly the way she is. That’s a win for me, conflicted feelings aside.
I truly have no clue how to rate this book, so I’m going with 2.5 “well, I don’t fucking know” stars. The funny thing is I disliked so many characters by the end (even Bea to a degree. I didn’t like anyone)!!! I wasn’t in love with the final ship. Hell, I was shipping these random Main Squeeze fantasy league players (Beth/Colin antagonize each other in the frequent excerpts of fantasy league texts) more than I was shipping Bea with her suitors! Then again, I devoured the story and couldn’t take my eyes off the page. I realize that I’m contradicting myself here. In my defense, it’s 2:30 am and my brain cells are too sleepy for reviewing.
As my friend Jenica said to me, it’s “right in the middle as compulsively readable, messy as hell, and somewhat problematic.” That just about sums it up.
June 14, 2020
Bea is extremely unlikable. It seems that her only personality trait is “poor me, I’m fat and no one could ever love a fat girl”. Her size is drilled into the reader’s head on every page. The dialogue between Bea and the men is unrealistic, cheesy, and completely exaggerated. The subplot with Ray is stupid, and the side characters - Marin and Lauren - are flat. The overuse of transcripts, news articles, even food delivery receipts (I mean really??) is lazy and to cover up for the fact that London could not create a fluid narrative no matter how hard she tried. The overuse of parentheses is irritating and the writing throughout is poor, not to mention to multiple spelling and grammar errors throughout. This book could’ve been great, but the writing was absolute garbage.
October 23, 2023
1.5
I honestly couldn’t stand the main character or any of the love interests.
Review:
https://youtu.be/x9Ye1bPLx3U
I honestly couldn’t stand the main character or any of the love interests.
Review:
https://youtu.be/x9Ye1bPLx3U
April 25, 2023
Some may be bothered by a book that uses social media threads more than regular text— but it totally worked for me in a book that was all about the contrived and surprisingly honest reality show format— and in some ways those ancillary characters made the book more charming!
Kudos to breaking some cliches and for keeping it real (most of the time). I’ll admit I’ve never been a fan of the bachelor/bachelorette series— way too many white Barbie and Ken dolls for me. This book emulated that type of show— with all its fangs and warts. Totally added to the “who can you trust is telling the truth” question that is forever on our heroine’s mind.
I loved Bea— and a lot of the book was relatable if you’re thicker in the middle than a size 4 or are someone who has spent way too much time finding the perfect outfit to appear thinner than you are. When you are overweight, society has trained you to look smaller, act smaller and sound smaller. Know what? That’s total bullshit— and I love a book that wrestles with all aspects of body positivity.
Despite the body positive/shaming themes or maybe because of it, the book doesn’t pull any punches. For the most part, it stays away from unbelievable scenes and certainly reminds both the heroine and the reader— just how cruel humans can be to other humans. And for that it earned a fourth star from this middle-aged chubby reader.
No spoilers but I would have high-fived Bea for her choice in the end too!!
Kudos to breaking some cliches and for keeping it real (most of the time). I’ll admit I’ve never been a fan of the bachelor/bachelorette series— way too many white Barbie and Ken dolls for me. This book emulated that type of show— with all its fangs and warts. Totally added to the “who can you trust is telling the truth” question that is forever on our heroine’s mind.
I loved Bea— and a lot of the book was relatable if you’re thicker in the middle than a size 4 or are someone who has spent way too much time finding the perfect outfit to appear thinner than you are. When you are overweight, society has trained you to look smaller, act smaller and sound smaller. Know what? That’s total bullshit— and I love a book that wrestles with all aspects of body positivity.
Despite the body positive/shaming themes or maybe because of it, the book doesn’t pull any punches. For the most part, it stays away from unbelievable scenes and certainly reminds both the heroine and the reader— just how cruel humans can be to other humans. And for that it earned a fourth star from this middle-aged chubby reader.
No spoilers but I would have high-fived Bea for her choice in the end too!!
April 29, 2021
omg this was SO fun I loved it SO much!! I am so proud to say that I predicted this exact conclusion/ending and also absolutely loved it??? like wtf??!!
CHRIS EVANS
CHRIS EVANS
November 13, 2021
Omg I loved it! This is what the doctor ordered. I was gasping at parts of this book. I was screaming “NO! NOT HIM! DEAR GOD ANYONE BUT HIM!” Or “no way! OMG! For real?!” And I adore when a book makes me do that.
This was truly like reality tv. If you love the Bachelor, you’ll love this book.
Wyatt loves rent free in my head always. What a sweet storyline.
I definitely recommend this book. It isn’t talked about enough
This was truly like reality tv. If you love the Bachelor, you’ll love this book.
Wyatt loves rent free in my head always. What a sweet storyline.
I definitely recommend this book. It isn’t talked about enough
October 18, 2020
ONE TO WATCH is ONE TO READ!
This book was SO FUN! I am a proud member of Bachelor Nation and this book was seriously better than any season of the show. Bea would have hands-down been my favorite Bachelorette ever. But I don’t think you need to have watch the show to love this book. This is without a doubt one of the most authentic, entertaining, and diverse books I’ve ever read. Kate Staymam-London has elevated the chick lit genre with this engaging story.
Bea is a popular plus size influencer. She is a vivacious, beautiful, kind, and wonderful Character. Bea is so great about lifting up others she really needs to spend some time lifting up herself. When Bea is asked to be on a Bachelor type show called Main Squeeze she’s decides to do it for all the plus size ladies in the world. The show is a rollercoaster filled with emotion, drama, exotic locations, and a diverse cast of potential main squeezes. Just like the real show there were men that you were rooting for and men that you were hating on. It was fun and occasionally uncomfortable watching Bea navigate her way through the show.
This book really exceeded my expectations. I was anticipating a fun read but this was just so much more than that. There was just something so empowering about reading Bea’s Journey. And the ending was actually more than I could’ve ever hoped for. Cannot recommend this debut enough.
*** Big thank you to Random House for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
This book was SO FUN! I am a proud member of Bachelor Nation and this book was seriously better than any season of the show. Bea would have hands-down been my favorite Bachelorette ever. But I don’t think you need to have watch the show to love this book. This is without a doubt one of the most authentic, entertaining, and diverse books I’ve ever read. Kate Staymam-London has elevated the chick lit genre with this engaging story.
Bea is a popular plus size influencer. She is a vivacious, beautiful, kind, and wonderful Character. Bea is so great about lifting up others she really needs to spend some time lifting up herself. When Bea is asked to be on a Bachelor type show called Main Squeeze she’s decides to do it for all the plus size ladies in the world. The show is a rollercoaster filled with emotion, drama, exotic locations, and a diverse cast of potential main squeezes. Just like the real show there were men that you were rooting for and men that you were hating on. It was fun and occasionally uncomfortable watching Bea navigate her way through the show.
This book really exceeded my expectations. I was anticipating a fun read but this was just so much more than that. There was just something so empowering about reading Bea’s Journey. And the ending was actually more than I could’ve ever hoped for. Cannot recommend this debut enough.
*** Big thank you to Random House for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
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