Library Marcela Ortiz has been in love with her best friend, Ben, for almost 10 years, but when he finally shows her an engagement ring, it’s for his long-term girlfriend, not herself. In the aftermath of such a painful wake-up call, Marcela acknowledges it's time to move on.

Theo Young has been in love with his brother's fiancée, Alice since they were children, and he needs to know, once and for all, if she ever felt the same way. On the night of their engagement party, as he’s running through the speech he’s preparing for Alice, Marcela overhears and bodily stops him from running the happy couple’s night. He crashes on her couch, and when they arrive at the family brunch the next morning, everyone assumes they spend the night together, and neither admits otherwise.

This is exactly what Marcela needs, a fling to help her get over Ben once and for all, and with Theo in the same boat, the two plan to rebound with each other, except their rebounding has started to work a little too well.

I have mixed feelings about The Next Best Fling. I enjoyed it, and I didn’t. starting with the bad, I didn’t like Marcela’s relationship with Ben at all, he was toxic and controlling and was stringing her along, she just refused to see it. I also didn’t like that the two main love interests were in love with other people, it was an interesting plot idea, which is why I picked up the book, but in reality, it was not enjoyable. Marcela herself was a difficult character for me to like, outside her interactions with Theo, I couldn’t bring myself to like her at all.

However, Theo and Marcela together, worked. They were, mostly, honest and trusting with each other. Vulnerable and open to the spark that ignited between them. their interactions were sweet and steamy, and I really liked Theo, he was adorable in how much he showed, and told, Marcela he cared.

The Next Best Fling, by Gabriella Gamez, is a fast-paced romance, full of witty banter and laughable moments. This book is a quick easy read that is perfect to toss into your pool or beach bag!
Thanks, NetGalley and the publisher, for providing me with the ARC
ebook I read and reviewed. All opinions are my own.

The Next Best Fling was such a swoon worthy book. Theo, honestly...I loved him! I didn't think I would like the premise of it too much but the plot was handled in a very mature way.

I flew through it in one sitting and absolutely loved it. It made me laugh and even tear up at times.

The only reason why I couldn't rate it 5 stars was that I felt like the quality of the writing dropped a little in the last few chapters. They felt a bit too rushed, not as well thought-out as the rest of the book and more like a first draft and the finished version in my opinion. Nevertheless, I'd highly highly recommend!

Normally I am not a fan of a love triangle trope, but this book was great. I loved the relationship between Theo and Marcela although I feel more time could have been spent on them and less on Alice and Ben. It was lovely the way the relationship progressed but I did find myself getting annoyed towards the ending when I just wanted Marcela to stop doubting herself and realise Theo was right in front of her.

This was incredibly touching. Both Marcela and Theo are heartbroken, in love with people who won’t return their feelings, full of guilt and resentment for how they feel. Because of a misunderstanding, they start fake-dating, and getting to know each other. They help each other be a better version of themselves, make better choices, two broken pieces who grow to fit together. I have loved this story.

The premise of this story was what made me want to read it. I really liked Marcela, a plus sized Latina, who works as a librarian. Her colleague and bestie Angela was great too and I enjoyed their friendship.
Sadly this story didn’t work out for me. This is just a me thing. I was very excited for Marcela and Theo but their chemistry was lacking so their connection felt flat. I wasn’t invested as I had hoped and I didn’t like the side characters. Too much drama and I felt the story went in circles. Especially one character took too much focus and affected my overall experience.
This is the author’s debut and the writing was ok. The story wasn’t working for me. It happens but I’ll try another book of hers in the future.
2.5 Stars

This book is a bit hard to review for me since I liked the plot and the MMC Theo a lot but I struggled with our FMC quite a bit and didn’t like her. I just couldn’t get her thoughts and wish she acted differently almost every time. The tropes were great and the writing style is ok, just not my cup of tea.

In a world of Bens, be a Theo. This was such a fun and breezy read - a twist on the expected fake dating trope, toxicity and complex emotional webs unravelling all over the place. And it's just *sweet*. The tension just ticked up throughout. Love, love.

Read if you like: fake dating, unrequited love, fwb, best friends brother, plus sized fmc, love square, push/pull

Oh that opening scene hurt my heart 😭 unrequited love is a different sort of pain the absolutely ruins me when I read it

Marcela was delusional, self sabotaging, horrible at communication, and had absolutely zero respect for herself 😭😭 While I was hooked on the plot and wanted to see how things played out, I did not like her as the FMC at all. There was not a single thing I liked about her 🥲

On the other hand, Theo was honest, sweet and great at communication

I would’ve love to see a more developed relationship between Marcela and Theo, it was all very physical so I wasn’t convinced on their romance at all

If you like a super messy drama with a toxic/codependent friendship, maybe give this a go. This was just a miss for me 🙁

I enjoyed this a lot, but it was so emotionally heavy - bear that in mind when picking it up, as it's not a cute, easy little romance.

The love triangle (square?) worked well, there was mature communication (most of the time), and I really loved Marcella, her personality, her passion toward her job and libraries, and books in general.

I just couldn't get through this one quickly, I had to take my time with it, mainly because of the constant internal monologues and just so many deep emotions Marcella experienced.

A very cute, messy romance novel that is a real page turner.
There's a lovely aspect of body positivity in the book - with a plus size main character who is likeable (usually not the case).

The book is fast paced, easy to read, and well written.

If you're looking for a quick feeling read for a cozy night, this is brilliant for you.

Oh how I do love the drama! Marcela and Theo really do put themselves into some situations perfect set up for a rom-com. I wanted to see more of the relationship between Marcela and Theo because they were so cute together and down to earth... A heartwarming read💕

Thank you Dialogue Books for the eARC via Netgalley

"The Next Best Fling" by Gabriella Gamez is a captivating and enchanting read that drew me in from the very first page. This debut novel effortlessly blends endearing characters, a swoon-worthy romance, and layers of unexpected emotional depth.

Marcela, the lively and passionate youth librarian, immediately wins you over with her dedication to nurturing a love for books and learning in the young minds she works with. Her enthusiasm for her job and her spirited personality make her a delight to follow. On the other side, we meet Theo, the genuine and charming hero whose honesty and warmth shine through, making him impossible not to adore.

What truly sets this novel apart is its masterful balance between light-hearted romance and deeper, more poignant themes. While Marcela and Theo’s budding relationship provides plenty of heart-fluttering moments, the story also delves into significant issues like facing insecurities, embracing life's inevitable changes, and finding the courage to pursue one's true desires. The portrayal of Ben, Theo's brother, and his struggles adds an authentic layer of complexity, bringing a relatable touch to the narrative.

The chemistry between Marcela and Theo is electric from their first interaction, yet their relationship stands out for its genuine nature. Their connection is beautifully grounded in mutual admiration and sincere affection. As they navigate their feelings and the uncertainties of new love, their story feels raw and real, compelling you to root for their happiness throughout.

I found myself devouring "The Next Best Fling" in a single sitting, completely immersed in its warm-hearted charm and the irresistible pull of Marcela and Theo’s journey. Gabriella Gamez has crafted a stunning debut that promises great things for her future works. If you’re a fan of heartfelt love stories with both light and depth, this book is a must-read. Grab a copy, settle in, and let yourself be swept away by the enchanting tale of Marcela and Theo. You’ll be glad you did!

I enjoyed the body positive aspect of this book and felt it was handled well and true to life. The main characters were fun and had a good amount of baggage. Great front cover.

Title: The Next Best Fling by Gabriella Gamez

Release date: July, 9th, 2024

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Stars

"The Next Best Fling" by Gabriella Gamez is a captivating and spicy debut romance that explores the complexities of love, heartbreak, and the unexpected paths to healing. This novel is a delightful journey of two broken hearts finding solace and passion in each other's company, navigating the murky waters of a no-strings-attached relationship that defies their initial intentions.

Marcela Ortiz, a librarian with a secret long-standing love for her best friend, is faced with the harsh reality of moving on when he gets engaged. Her world is further complicated by the arrival of Theo Young, the ex-NFL player brother of the man she loves, who harbors feelings for the bride-to-be. In a twist of fate, Marcela and Theo find themselves entangled in a web of lies, secrets, and an undeniable attraction that neither of them anticipated.

Their relationship starts as a mutually beneficial arrangement to distract themselves from their unrequited loves. However, as they explore the depth of their connection, they discover that their fling is far from superficial. It becomes a source of emotional growth, support, and a profound understanding that challenges their initial perceptions of each other and themselves.

Gamez's novel is a masterful blend of emotion, passion, and humour. It delves into the messy dynamics of family, the pain of unrequited love, and the healing power of a connection that starts as a rebound but evolves into something much more meaningful. The chemistry between Marcela and Theo is palpable, their interactions filled with wit, warmth, and a sensuality that adds depth to their evolving relationship.

"The Next Best Fling" is a testament to Gabriella Gamez's storytelling prowess, her ability to craft characters who are flawed, relatable, and deeply endearing. It's a novel that celebrates the idea that sometimes, the path to true love is paved with unexpected detours and that healing can come from the most unlikely of sources.

This book is a must-read for anyone who loves a good romance, filled with emotional depth, steamy encounters, and a journey towards self-discovery and love. Gamez's debut is not only a triumph but also a promise of more heartwarming and irresistible stories to come.

Thank you to The Publisher Dialogue Books | Renegade Books ,The Author Gabriella Gamez & NetGalley for an advanced reader copy (ARC) in exchange for my honest review.

The Next Best Fling by Gabriella Gamez
Rating: 4/5
Release Date: 9 July 2024

In this debut romance, two people with broken hearts find unexpected solace in each other. Marcela Ortiz, a librarian secretly in love with her best friend, decides to move on when he gets engaged. Her plans are disrupted by Theo Young, an ex-NFL player and the groom's older brother, who intends to confess his love to the bride-to-be. Marcela stops him and offers him a place to sleep off his drunken mistake. The next day, they attend a family brunch where everyone mistakenly assumes they hooked up. To cover Theo's feelings for the bride and distract Marcela from her unrequited love for the groom, they agree to a fake dating relationship. As they explore their chemistry, their no-strings-attached arrangement starts to feel more real, challenging their initial intentions.

"The Next Best Fling" captivates with its blend of lighthearted charm and deep exploration of serious themes. Marcela and Theo's journey goes beyond romance, delving into themes of insecurity, change, and the courage to follow one's heart. Character growth, particularly Ben's regression, adds relatable complexity. Marcela and Theo's chemistry is palpable and authentic, grounded in respect and affection. As they navigate attraction and uncertainty, readers are compelled to root for them. Gabriella Gamez's debut is a triumph, delivering heartwarming charm and irresistible romance. A must-read for love story enthusiasts, this book enchants with Marcela and Theo's magical journey.

Fans of Abby Jimenez and Lynn Painter will adore this debut romance about a librarian and an ex-NFL player who enter a fake relationship to mend their broken hearts.

Thank you so much to NetGalley, Dialogue Books, and the author, Gabriella Gamez, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest and fair review.

The book was cute but too rushed in my opinion. I wanted more angst, more tension. The think i liked was the plus size representation. Also Theo is a really cute character, but again, it felt too rushed.