Cover Story

A Novel

De: Mhairi McFarlane

Narrado por: Charlotte Mills

Mr. & Mrs. Smith meets The Hating Game in this heartfelt, witty, and utterly binge-worthy enemies-to-lovers romance from international bestseller Mhairi McFarlane, about two journalists who must fake a relationship in order to land a huge story.

Bel has just landed a job at the Manchester office of a big national newspaper, coming off the success of her latest award-winning podcast. The team is small, consisting of Bel, her ambitious colleague Aaron, and the new intern. But when the intern turns out to be a thirtysomething man called Connor, she’s not impressed. She’s patronizing, he’s hostile: it’s a terrible start.

Connor’s life is in a state of collapse. He’s left his seemingly perfect life in London—a well-paying job, great apartment, and beautiful girlfriend—for a chance to pursue a lifelong dream of becoming a reporter. After a bad first impression with Bel, his internship begins to feel like another in a series of poor decisions. But if Connor were honest with himself, she’s the first bit of excitement he’s felt in a very long time.

When Bel suddenly finds herself at the heels of a huge story, she’s determined to see it through— even if it means involving the inscrutable and aloof Connor. Before they know it, they must convince people they’re not just a couple, but a couple madly in love. If they mess up, Bel’s cover is blown and the biggest story she’ll ever have landed will disappear, along with justice for its sources.

But as time goes on, Bel and Connor start to wonder if their cover story is just an act, or if their feelings are real…

©2025 Mhairi McFarlane (P)2025 HarperCollins Publishers

Impossible not to love the characters

Really enjoyed the story, although predictable, I can't help but love faux-lationships that turn into real feelings. I'm a sap for Connor Adams and Belle is a charming lead.

Such good writing!

Mhari McFarlane did it again! I’ve read and loved all her books and this is now one of my faves of hers. Connor might just be my dream book boyfriend. This story is cute, witty, fun, exciting and with so much depth, I didn’t want it to end. Finishing this story makes me want to revisit her old books and enjoy her writing. I’m sure I’ll be re-reading this again later down the line. Already looking forward to her next one.

Warm, witty, and slyly brilliant

I always finish Mhairi McFarlane’s books anxious to re-read them and this is no exception. They’re so full of wisdom but their brilliance isn’t ostentatious — it’s tucked away in little witticisms and lols — which is the best way to share brilliant observations in my opinion. Life affirming and wonderful.

Perfection!

Mhairi knocks it out of the park once again! No notes! Absolutely perfect! The wait was worth it for this one.

Loved it!

I discovered Mhairi McFarlane this Summer and absolutely FLEW through her books! I’ve been waiting months for this one to be released and it did not disappoint!

Suspense, Romance, Wit, Heartfelt

Perfect enemies to lovers story. Abundant charm. Great suspenseful plot. This would make a great movie. Very lovable hero and heroine. I took one star off "performance" because the narrator spoke so quickly I had to turn the playback down to 85. I also thought the narrator did not differentiate between voices enough.