BOOKWORM REVIEW: Chick Magnet by Emma Barry
Have you ever seen the video of the farm lady that tries to talk about the animals and farm living, only to be constantly thwarted by her adorable ostrich Emmanuel?
I like to think that social media celebrity Nicole Jones -- or rather "Chick Nic" -- lives her life like that with her chickens. After a horrible and very public break-up with her clout-chasing ex, she seeks refuge in Yagerstown, living next door to a grumpy veterinarian named Will Lund.
Will is not a fan of Chick Nic, but that is the least of Dr. Will's problems. His veterinary business is struggling, and the stubborn man is deadset on fixing his post-pandemic problems on his own. Now the woman whose chicken videos he loathes moves in next door, adding more grump to the already cantankerous vet.
But nothing everything online is what it seems, and Will finally realizes the error of his assuming ways. Will their budding friendship turn into something more?
I enjoyed this book. Between the gaslighting social media influencer ex and the business struggles with the pandemic, there were times that the book felt too real, but I felt like it added to the relatability of the main characters. I like Nic and Will's relationship arc; the slow burn allowed them to build a strong connection built on past traumas, a love for animals, and a deep-seated attraction. We do get some spicy scenes, but a couple of them fade to black.
This standalone read does cover a lot about the pandemic, so if that topic is "too soon" for you, you have been warned. Otherwise, this was a nice small-town enemies-to-lovers book.
** I am voluntarily reviewing an advance copy of this book. Thank you to Emma Barry, Montlake Romance, and NetGalley for providing an ARC. **