Eden and Brennon are on stage as Elizabeth and Darcy. With life imitating the story of the play will they end up together?

Enemies to lovers was an interesting retake on Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. I enjoyed how the author mixed up the P&P characters in this novel, and I really felt that Brennon as Darcy was fabulous but Eden was just not ‘Lizzie’ enough for me. Some of the other characters were not my favourite renditions either. I listen to this as an audiobook and I definitely enjoyed that aspect. All up this was an interested take but not the best I have read/listened to.

Big thanks to Netgalley and Amelia Jones for this early release copy in exchange for my honest review.

This novel truly delivers on its promise, brilliantly blending the vibrancy of musical theatre with the charm of Pride & Prejudice.

For the first 80%, I was completely hooked. It's a delightful rom-com, filled with all the engaging drama and light-heartedness you'd expect. The dynamic between Brennon and Eden is captivating, with their rocky start, undeniable stage presence, and friends who bring their own intriguing subplots. Brennon is a complete idiot in the beginning, similar to Jane Austen's version where you're completely unsure if this character will be likeable by the end of the novel.

However, the story took a turn for me around the 80% mark. Up until then, Eden and Brennon's journey was compelling, marked by misunderstandings and intense chemistry. But as the story neared its conclusion, Eden's character took a dramatic turn that felt a bit overdone. Her hesitation and overreaction just as Brennon was ready to deepen their relationship felt incongruous with the story's earlier tone. It changed the way I viewed Eden and Brennon's romance completely.

In saying that though, it's still a great adaptation of Pride and Prejudice if, like me, you love reading modern takes. If you're a fan of drama with a touch of musical theatre magic, this book is for you.

Many thanks to Netgalley and Embla Books for a copy of this novel. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.

The reason I chose to read the ARC of this book is because I'm adore Pride and Prejudice, and I feel as though those parts in this book were written quite well.

It follows the story of Eden and Brennon who have to work together on a musical stage production of Pride and Prejudice. Although the enemies part was a tad confusing, (why would you pick on someone because you'd seen them in a commercial years ago?), I feel as though the slow burn was a good pace. Some parts were hard to follow, and some conversations didn't make sense in my eyes but that may just be me.

An easy to read romance, great for anyone who loves Pride and Prejudice and wants a quick, nice book to enjoy.

A spicy rom-com set in the world of theatre giving a musical version of pride and prejudice.
Fun at times - and frustrating at others - there's a lot of crossed wires and misunderstandings which felt a little repetitive.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the arc ebook.

Enemies to Lovers certainly fulfils the title. Telling the tale of a cast of actors on a touring US musical, there is obviously going to be competitive moments both on and off the stage. It is also an environment where cast members have different levels of experience and fame creating an imbalance of power. This plays out in this story where Brennon starts with all the power and Eden is working her way up the ropes. Despite them initially clashing, they are obviously attracted to each other. Lots of great moments of tension played out on the stage.

"Enemies to Lovers" by Amelia Jones is a captivating modern adaptation steeped in the beloved essence of Jane Austen's classic "Pride and Prejudice." Set against the backdrop of a theatrical production, Eden Blake, alias Elizabeth Bennett, finds herself entangled with Brennon Thorne, the new Mr. Darcy, in a tale of passion, conflict, and unexpected romance.

Jones skillfully weaves a narrative that balances the tension between Eden and Brennon, mirroring the timeless dynamics of Austen's iconic characters. The clash of personalities, fueled by Brennon's disdain for Eden's background, sets the stage for an emotionally charged storyline. As circumstances push them into close proximity, their on-stage chemistry evolves, leading to a series of compelling and fiery encounters that transcend the footlights.

The author expertly navigates the progression from animosity to a burgeoning connection, drawing readers into a rollercoaster of emotions. The chemistry between Eden and Brennon crackles with intensity, making each on-stage kiss a catalyst for unexpected feelings and a journey towards genuine affection.

What truly shines in Jones's narrative is the exploration of whether the lines between fiction and reality blur, echoing Austen's romantic ideals. As the characters grapple with their emotions, readers are treated to a beautifully crafted story that balances wit, passion, and the transformative power of love.

"Enemies to Lovers" is a delightful and engaging read for both fans of Austen's classic tale and those seeking a contemporary romantic drama. Jones's talent for infusing depth into characters and relationships elevates this novel into a captivating exploration of love amidst animosity, ultimately delivering a satisfying and heartwarming conclusion.

This book does exactly what it says in the title. It is the perfect enemies to lovers book set around the cast of a musical based on the most iconic enemies to lovers story, Pride and Prejudice's Liz and Darcy.
I really enjoyed the movement of the plot and especially loved the setting and cast. I haven't read many books with this theatre setting and I definitely will be looking forward to more. This book has set the bar high and I'm excited to see what comes next.
My only warning against this book would be, if you don't like the miscommunication trope then I wouldn't recommend this book. The enemies to lovers plot heavily takes advantage of the miscommunication trope in the first half, but it is truly worth it.
I personally don’t mind the trope, it just takes me a minute to ease the desire to strangle the characters. Luckily our main FMC is not your typical naive heroine, she portrays a strong character which made it easier to connect with her when she delves slightly into the effect of impostor syndrome.
There are a few mental issues such as impostor syndrome which are acknowledged in this book but not too heavily discussed which ensures the overall story keeps its light, warm effect.
This book has got the spice we all need and I loved the main characters interactions. The dual pov is just perfect at giving us a taste of both the main characters and the side characters.
Overall I really enjoyed this book and would definitely recommend it.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️

This was an absolutely fantastic read, and given that the story is a theatrical retelling of Pride and Prejudice, it hit the tropes perfectly.

In Mr Darcy style, Brennon is a well sought after but moody and misunderstood actor playing alongside the ray of sunshine Eden, who steps into the role of Elizabeth after the leading lady flees.

You get to know their roles on the stage inside out, and the P&P tale continues into their relationship off stage.

I’ve not normally been one for theatre-based novels, but this one had me hooked from the first page. It’s so well written and I found myself feeling all the feels as I navigated through the “will they, won’t they” storyline.

I did start to really dislike Eden towards the end of the book, but as the tale plays out it makes so much sense to make the reader dislike her when it all comes to a head. It wouldn’t have worked if the reader liked her whilst the scenes were playing out - you NEED to read it to understand.

1000% this book is going on my physical to buy list. I need it on my bookshelf and cannot wait for it to be released.

I want to thank NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

A good read with a few laughs along the way. 4 stars

Thanks to Netgalley, author and publisher for this ARC

Oh, miscommunication... One of my most hated trope and it was really pushed to the limit here. But that wasn't my biggest problem. I just couldn't get into Brennon, I found him incredibly pretentious and condescending. I know, I know, how can I love Darcy and not a character based on him... I don't know, it just didn't work for me. The same goes for all the characters, I couldn't get into them.

On the other hand, I really liked the glance behind the stage, the excellent peak behind the curtains so I'd definitely recommend this to someone who would like to know more a bit about the theatre world.

oodreads Synopsis
In this slow-burn yet highly combustible enemies-to-lovers romance, perfect for fans of Rachel Lynn Solomon and Abby Jimenez, two stage actors find themselves falling for each other with each onstage kiss...against their better judgment.

Actress Eden Blake’s biggest claim to fame is a mortifying pharmaceutical commercial for male enhancement pills. That is until the female lead on the nationwide tour of Broadway’s hit Pride & Prejudice musical abruptly quits and Eden is called up to fill the role.

The cast of Liz and Darcy: The Musical has just settled into a three-week run in Washington, DC, and Broadway royalty Brennon Thorne is set to play Darcy. Despite Brennon’s reputation as being “a dream to work with,” Eden’s first impression of him is more like a nightmare. Now, she’ll have to kiss the pompous jerk eight shows per week.

Brennon can’t disguise his disdain for understudies like Eden. But New York is filled with reminders of his most recent failed relationship, and this American tour is a much-needed distraction from his loneliness. As Eden and Brennon take the stage playing Jane Austen’s most memorable characters, their reality begins to mirror Elizabeth and Darcy’s—explosive chemistry and all. Together, they power through press performances and curtain calls, even as rumors of Brennon’s checkered romantic past resurface and prove to Eden that he can’t be trusted.

But with each choreographed stage kiss, Eden and Brennon’s passion for the stage—and each other—ignites. Maybe, just maybe, not all rumors are to be believed—and not all showmances are doomed to fail.
Goodreads

Review
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher, via NetGalley. This in no way impacted on my view.

Joining the cast of Liz and Darcy: The Musical was a dream come true for Eden Blake, but she never expected that she would soon become the principal lead for the part of Lizzie as it makes it's debut American tour. And the fact that Broadway royalty, Brennon Thorne is set to play Darcy is a set too far. But where Eden thought she would be having the time of her life, it's clear that Brennon would rather act alongside any one other than herself. However, soon it seems as if the parts they are playing are coming reality, and the chemistry between the two could rival even that of Lizzie and Darcy.

I simply adore anything and everything Pride and Prejudice related, so as soon as I saw the cover and synopsis of this book, I immediately requested it, and dove right in! This was such a great P&P inspired book, and the premise of having a stage show where the cast are starting to embody the characters of Lizzie, Darcy, and all the others, was wonderful. Eden was such a great main character, who felt so real in her vulnerabilities that I wanted to reach into the book and give her a big hug at times. Her and Brennon's chemistry was electric, and they gave as good as they got. Brennon was so rude and grumpy to begin with, but as any P&P lover will know, he was hiding his shyness behind that gruff exterior, which Eden managed to break through. There were so many moments in the book which were the epitome of Lizzie and Darcy's interactions in the original material, but also so new and fresh that it wasn't a clear copy from Austen. I found myself unable to put this book down at all, and needed to see if Eden and Brennon would be able to overcome all of their miscommunication to find their happiness, but it was all worth it in the end. A fantastic Pride & Prejudice inspired contemporary romance!

Enemies to Lovers is a lovely book, with frauds, love triangles and drama.

Eden is an actress (the back up) in a theatre production, this is her big chance to get into the spotlight, but Brennon the big star that plays the leading male role is not helping.

It’s a passionate story that is a slow burn, the main characters are fun and helped the story flow easily.

If you need an easy read with a few steamy sessions, this is for you.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for a copy.

In a retelling of Pride and Prejudice, Elizabeth Bennett, otherwise known as Eden Blake, is an understudy for in the musical adaption, known as ‘Liz and Darcy’. Eden has been acting in bad commercials for years and this production, is her chance to begin again. Yet Brennon Thorne, the new Mr Darcy, and all-round theatre god joins the next leg of their tour and makes his contempt for Eden well known. Yet when the actress playing Elizabeth drops out and Eden has to take her place, their one on-stage kiss leads to another. Soon both of them begin to see each other quite differently.
This was an entertaining read with some sweet romance. Whilst at times this retelling of Pride and Prejudice was a bit predictable, it was a clever twist on a classic tale. I wasn’t too sure about the title as these two characters were never enemies but like Elizabeth and Darcy, they lacked a full understanding and appreciation of the other.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

If I see a mention of pride and prejudice, you can bet I’ll read it. I had high expectations for this one but it just didn’t hit the stop. I loved the premises of the book and the inclusion of a musical plot set. But I just couldn’t get past the characters. Brennon and Eden were nothing like Darcy and Lizzie and did them a discredit. We know next to nothing about the characters apart from that they fall in love and Eden makes so pretty horrid decisions throughout. This just wasn’t a good retelling for me.

A delightful romcom! The characters are well-developed and had a great dynamic. A very fun read.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an e-ARC copy of this book, in exchange for this honest review.

If you love your romance book drama-filled and funny, this book is perfect for you. I thoroughly enjoyed watching all these characters develop. Although the book is marketed as a “pride and prejudice” romance, the references did seem to be lacking in this book. However, it was still an interesting read.

Thank you to NetGalley for providing me an arc of this book in exchange for honest review.

Thank you to Embla Books and Amelia Jones for letting me have an ARC copy of Enemies to Lovers in exchange for a fair and honest review

A unique retelling focusing on a theatrical production of Pride and Prejudice that is touring the USA. The story parallels nicely with the original and the characters have been shaped to mirror their counterparts from Pride and Prejudice with some thoughtful tweaks to modernize and give them unique differences. The twist on different levels of station with Eden Blake being the understudy actress who has clawed her way up the ladder for her dues in contrast to Brennon Thorne being a Tony-winning, Julliard graduate and sort after Broadway brought lovely dynamics and setup for their characters personalities.

I didn’t think it was a true enemies to lovers in the end. The hate vibes were a bit woolly for me. More strangers to lovers who have a whooping misunderstanding to cause a rift, but all the while both of them sense an intense attraction and chemistry to each other. Quickly blooming into feelings for Brennon, leading to more tension between him and Eden once those feelings are exposed.

Written in dual perspective in the third person from Eden and Brennon. The story is a steady beat of pace, with comical antics that give you high notes and very deep poignant moments of romance/heat. I think some might feel the middle drags a bit, but I felt it mirrored the time Elizabeth and Darcy spent at Pemberley. Allowing the reveal of Brennon’s warmth and caring side for who he is outside of his stardom and actor persona.

Brennon and Eden are complicated and conflicted characters with strong goals, motivations, and relatable flaws. Their backstories are woven into the stories with a peppering here and then, not revealed at once. Their growth towards feelings towards each other is paired with their character arcs growth for them overcoming their insecurities to accept one another in stages but does rush to the crescendo. Side characters are polished without being too distracting from the twists and turns of the relationship with Brennon of Eden.

A fun, light, and entertaining rom-com packed with some nice warm-fuzzy romance with both action and words, with a dash of spice. A Pride and Prejudice retelling, so a little predictable with a plot full of misunderstandings, quirky family, and bad judgment calls, but a unique setting against a theatrical backdrop. Something to read for a break from all the festive books or if you looking for something new this December without a single mention of Christmas.

Thanks to the Publisher and Netgalley for an early review copy.

I loved reading this book.

It was an easy to read as well as fun.

The characters were lovely and the story keeps you hooked as you follow their stories.

I recommend this book.

I received a free copy of, Enemies to Lovers, by Amelia Jones, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Actress Eden Blake gets to play in a Jane Austen play, so exciting though her and her male lead Brennon Thorne, do not get along at all, or do they? A cute read.