The unputdownable, brilliant new novel from the Queen of Romcom.
Bel’s joined the Manchester office of a big national paper from her award-winning podcast. There’s only three of them – Bel, her relentlessly ambitious colleague Aaron, and the new intern. And when the intern turns out to be a thirty-something man called Connor, she gets off on totally the wrong foot. She’s patronising, he’s hostile. It’s a terrible start.
Then Bel gets a sniff at a really big story, Connor gets caught in the crossfire, and before they know it, they have to convince people they’re a couple – and a couple in love at that. If they mess up, Bel’s cover is blown and the biggest story she’ll ever land will disappear, along with justice for its sources.
But as time goes on, who’s double crossing whom – and which feelings are real? It’s Mr & Mrs Smith meets The Hating Game – and sparks will fly …
So much fun! Cover Story is a wonderful enemies-to-lovers romance about investigative journalism, holding abusive men in power accountable, and overcoming first impressions.
The novel is told from two POVs: Bel and Connor. Bel is a capable, respected journalist reeling after a bad break-up and troubling encounters with a stalker. Connor is an ex-finance bro attempting to start a new career in journalism, running away from mental health difficulties in London and an absolutely awful (if I do say so myself) long-term girlfriend. Bel happens upon an intriguing lead for a story about the exploits of a smarmy, manipulative mayor who preys on young girls. She and Connor go undercover to unveil proof, determined to expose him. Of course, they end up fake dating despite their mutual dislike for one another.
With such a promising plot and McFarlane's wonderful writing, what could go wrong? (Nothing, that's the true answer here.) Cover Story is funny, clever, and, most importantly, deals with important and relevant social issues. I appreciated that the romance didn't overshadow the important passages about mental health, women's safety, and the necessity of justice. Yet, at the same time, the novel is still sincerely thrilling and lively, not depressing.
Moreover, Bel and Connor are such likeable, well-rounded characters. They’re hardworking, have an excellent sense of humour, witty rapport, and a comical ability to misunderstand each other. The other side characters such as Shilpa and Ian are similarly delightful. Also, as a side note, I really enjoyed the Manchester setting. I lived there during lockdown (long story) so it was refreshing to read a novel based in this Northern city instead of London for once.
In conclusion, Cover Story is a must-read. McFarlane's suspenseful, funny, and romantic adventure kept me turning pages, eager to know what happens. This is my first foray into McFarlane's work, and I'm excited to read more from her... I see why she is so beloved.
*I received an e-ARC for free in exchange for an honest review*
Publication Date: May 8th, 2025
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