I've enjoyed the author previously so I automatically requested this without realising that this was a sequel.
The writing was fun and the characters seem to be well done but from the first page we are plumbed into an existing story that I had no idea about and I floundered for a bit before giving up. I will definitely try more books by the author but check if I have read any previous ones if part of a series!

Didn't know this was a sequel, and it was properly one - in the sense that it didn't make much sense to me as I haven't read the first book. It just felt like we're dumped in the middle of a 'situation' and we're supposed to 'get' it. But sadly, wasn't the case, and I couldn't connect throughout because it always felt like I was missing something and the joke was on me.

As a sucker for a book that solely focuses on a couple after they get together, when I found out Mhairi was writing a sequel I was seated, the theatre employees were scared from just how seated I was and they were asking me to leave but I stayed!

From the first book I remember how Elliot was drawn to Edie despite being a total mess and they connected in a deep way, away from the pressure and attention of Elliot as a celebrity. In this one it continues on from the first as this couple tries to juggle their lobe along with their career and other things that come in the way. My favourite part was definitely when Edie tells Elliot that he is her home, I broke down sobbing because that just hit so hard 😭 I love that despite Elliot’s increasing fame, it never took him away from Edie and she also had her own amazing career. I loved the addition of the new side characters, all in all this was a fun read about the trials and tribulations of a relationship in which one partner is famous!

Thank you for my arc in exchange for an honest review!

Just a pleasure to be back with these characters in this world. Who’s That Girl has long been one of my favourite contemporary romances. It’s my favourite Mhairi McFarlane book, and is a firm comfort read that I come back to often. So I was thrilled to hear there was finally a sequel on the way, and it lived up to expectations.

Great to have more Fraser and Meg - I wouldn’t say no to a Meg spin-off book.

I really enjoyed this, this is my second Mhairi McFarlane book and won’t be my last! i really enjoyed the writing style and the story.

You Belong with Me is a heartfelt and hilarious story that follows Edie, a down-to-earth heroine who returns to her hometown to run into her very first love, Elliot. We then follow a realistic exploration of how love and regret can shape us.

The chemistry between the characters is what makes this romance so compelling. The pacing is nice and the nostalgic bits are balanced entangled with the fresh developments.

This is the perfect read for those who enjoy a love story with a bit of wisdom to it. This is a true to life kind of romance and it's such a perfect read.

I always feel like I am being cuddled when I read a mcFarlane book. Her characters are always so lovely with amazing chemistry. I love that she also does not shy away from the harder, more sensitive topics. I loved this!

After the ambiguous ending of Who’s That Girl I was so happy to pick up You Belong with Me.

This book delves into Edie and Elliot’s experiences post HEA. Despite their Hollywood romance the story focuses on the realities and surprising relatable difficulties of a developing relationship in the public eye. At times uncomfortable, I loved the way the story gave us more time with Edie and Elliot, and to explore their personal values and identity within their relationship. McFarlane’s witty and engaging writing style had me lost in their story, and while the ending was satisfyingly what I expected, the journey to it was enjoyably unpredictable.

I’d recommend reading Who’s That Girl in order to get the most of this story and would highly recommend the duology to anyone looking for a relatable romance with emotional depth.

Thank you HarperCollins UK for a copy of this book. Opinions expressed are my own.

I love Mhairi McFarlane but this definitely wasn’t my favourite of her books. I like the ambiguity at the end of Who’s That Girl and unfortunately just didn’t enjoy this extension of her story. What I will say is that the writing was excellent as ever, it just wasn’t for me

I was nervous to read this but I couldn't resist it after the ending of Who's That Girl.
I reread Who's That Girl in preparation for reading this and I'm really glad I did. I wouldn't recommend this as a stand alone.

I found this book irritating but in a way that the charactersfelt so true to life that it didn't actually damage my reading experience and probably enhanced it in many ways. This felt so true to life and really did continue on from th previous book perfectly.

This is messy, real life (and celebrity) and as usual it's laugh out loud funny.
I think I'll always pick up a Mhairi McFarlane

Thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for a free eARC of this book

Mhairi McFarlane has once again delivered a gem with You Belong with Me. This heartfelt, hilarious, and ultimately uplifting story will remind you why she’s such a beloved voice in contemporary fiction.

The novel follows Edie, a relatable, down-to-earth heroine, who returns to her hometown to untangle family issues, only to run into her first love, Elliot. What follows is a tender yet refreshingly realistic exploration of how love, regret, and second chances can shape us. Mhairi masterfully weaves the past and present together, keeping the reader hooked from start to finish.

What truly shines here are the characters. Edie feels like someone you’d know (or want to know) while Elliot strikes the perfect balance of charm and vulnerability. Their chemistry leaps off the page, but what makes the romance so compelling is how grounded it feels. This isn’t a glossy, too-good-to-be-true love story; it’s messy, raw, and deeply human.

The book’s emotional depth is matched by its sharp humour. Mhairi’s wit is in full force, with dialogue that had me giggling more than once. At the same time, she doesn’t shy away from tackling heavier themes, such as self-worth, forgiveness, and the complicated ties that bind families and friendships. Her ability to navigate these shifts in tone is nothing short of brilliant.

Structurally, the pacing is just right. Each chapter flows effortlessly, carrying you along as the story builds to a satisfying and emotionally resonant conclusion. The nostalgic moments are balanced by fresh developments, and every twist feels both surprising and earned.

Ultimately, the book isn’t just a romance. It’s a story about self-discovery, healing, and finding the courage to rewrite your own narrative. Mhairi’s writing is full of warmth and insight, making this a book that stays with you long after the final page.

Whether you’re a longtime fan (like me) or new to her work, this novel is not to be missed. It’s the perfect read for anyone who enjoys their love stories with a side of wit and wisdom. Highly recommended.

I enjoyed this witty read by Mhairi McFarlane. Edie and Elliot are reunited but go through a series of misunderstandings on their way to their HEA.

An easy read, sweet and cheerful. I actually listened to the audiobook and really enjoyed the narration.

One of my favourite authors who has written so many great books and this is no exception. Will be recommending

P Fowler

This book has it all. Wit, charm, swifitie references. And just like every other book Mhairi has written, filled with the best parts to keep you hooked and entertained. You will not put it down.

Another great take of humour and heartfelt characters. Learning to love and live with a famous person is hard but Edie does it and Elliot makes it easy. This is a book that I loved an easy light read and enjoyable

So excited to have received this, after recently reading book 1! Loved getting back into the characters again, and seeing where life took them as they tried to make their relationship work.

you belong with me by mhairi mcfarlane is an entertaining read, but it didn’t quite hit all the right notes for me. the story is a continuation to “who’s that girl?” and it revolves around the two main characters, Emma and Jamie navigating their relationship under the public scrutiny and long distance.

in all honesty, the main characters acted a bit… childish at times? both of them struggling with issues of jealousy, him being in the public eye and the package it comes with? it dragged and dragged until i almost felt i wanted to drop the book and pretend the sequel doesn’t exist. i can see other people enjoying this book, but it was a disappointment for me.

lastly, thank you netgalley for providing me with an arc in exchange for an honest review!

I absolutely love all of Mhairi's books to date and You Belong With Me didn't disappoint! It's funny, engaging, down-to-earth, and gives me exactly what I'm asking for from a rom-com without being trite or stereotypical. Loved it!!

Mhairi McFarlane’s You Belong with Me is a sparkling romantic comedy that deftly explores the complexities of love in the public eye. Centered around Edie Thompson, who finds herself rekindling her romance with her former flame, actor Elliot Owen, the novel brilliantly balances humor and heartache.

From the moment the doorbell rings, signaling Elliot’s return, you are drawn into Edie’s whirlwind of emotions. Their chemistry is palpable, yet the reality of dating a celebrity brings challenges that are anything but fairytale-like. McFarlane excels at portraying the chaos of life in the spotlight, weaving in the pressures of fame, jealousy, and the expectations of family and friends.

Edie is a relatable protagonist, grappling with the duality of her dreams versus reality. As she navigates her rekindled romance, the arrival of Declan Dunne—a supportive colleague—adds an intriguing layer of tension, prompting Edie to question what she truly wants. McFarlane’s character development shines through, making each character feel authentic and multi-dimensional.

The dialogue is sharp and witty, often leading to laugh-out-loud moments interspersed with poignant reflections on love and self-worth. McFarlane's keen insights into relationships make this story resonate on a deeper level, providing a thoughtful commentary on the intricacies of romance.

With a backdrop of glitz and chaos, You Belong with Me is not just about finding “The One,” but about understanding what that really means amidst the noise of expectations. McFarlane’s signature blend of humor and emotional depth makes this a compelling read that’s hard to put down.

Overall, this novel is a delightful escape that will leave readers swooning and laughing. Mhairi McFarlane once again proves her prowess as a master of romantic comedy, and You Belong with Me is a must-read for anyone seeking a story that captures the joys and trials of love with wit and warmth.