28 Jul Book Review of The Next Chapter
Book Review: The Next Chapter by Camille Kellogg
When I first stumbled upon The Next Chapter by Camille Kellogg, I was instantly charmed by its promise of a queer romcom entwined with the chaos of fame and the subtlety of human emotions. As a lover of romantic tales that deliver both laughs and heartfelt moments, I couldn’t resist the allure of a story that explored what happens when celebrity life collides with the serene world of a bookstore. Trust me when I say this book delivers on that premise beautifully.
At the heart of this story are Kat, a former child star grappling with her identity after years of being in the limelight, and Jude, a reserved bookseller seeking solace in her routines amidst personal loss. Their dynamic unfolds with a delightful mixture of humor and depth, as they embark on a fake-dating scheme aimed at reviving Kat’s career. But what starts as a calculated decision soon morphs into a quest for authenticity—a journey we can all relate to, albeit with maybe far less celebrity drama!
Kellogg’s portrayal of Kat is refreshingly flawed. I found myself rooting for her as she navigates the murky waters of self-worth and vulnerability. Her sharp wit and ambition often mask a deeper uncertainty about her identity outside the roles she’s played, making her relatable and compelling. Meanwhile, Jude is that steady anchor we all crave; her groundedness provides a captivating contrast to Kat’s chaotic life, creating a chemistry that crackles and simmers from their very first interaction.
One aspect of The Next Chapter that truly resonated with me was Kellogg’s willingness to embrace the messiness of life and love. The characters grapple with imperfect decisions, miscommunications, and emotional fallouts that feel painfully real, allowing readers to engage deeply with their journeys. The backdrop of the vibrant bookstore, brimming with a cast of colorful friends, enhances the narrative, weaving themes of identity and queerness into the fabric of the story without overshadowing the romance.
Kellogg’s writing style is infused with warmth and humor; her ability to blend emotional poignancy with laugh-out-loud moments is simply delightful. While the pacing occasionally falters in the middle, and certain resolutions feel a tad too neatly wrapped up, the emotional payoff is more than worth it. I found myself quietly cheering as Kat and Jude began to embrace love for all its complexities.
This novel is not just for romcom enthusiasts; it’s a thoughtful exploration of reinvention and self-acceptance. As someone who often struggles with the dance between vulnerability and the fear of being seen, I found solace in these pages. It encourages us to choose love—even when the world outside demands a performance.
I’d wholeheartedly recommend The Next Chapter to readers seeking a romance that’s both uplifting and profoundly honest. Whether you’re a fan of witty banter, heartfelt moments, or stories of personal growth, this book will resonate with you. For me, it was a gentle reminder of the beauty found in life’s quieter moments, and it left me craving more from Kellogg’s captivating storytelling.
By the time I turned the last page, I couldn’t help but feel like I had just experienced a lovely little slice of life—both chaotic and tender. And for that, I’m grateful. ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group – Random House | Dial Press Trade Paperback for sharing a digital copy in exchange for my honest thoughts. Happy reading!
