Cover Story

A Novel

By: Mhairi McFarlane

Narrated by: Kristin Atherton

Mr. & Mrs. Smith meets The Hating Game in this heartfelt, witty, and utterly unputdownable 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 internturns 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…

Ok but not my favorite

This one felt a little heavy. There wasn’t humor or lightness to balance the tension and conflict. The narrator has a pleasant voice and does a good job of making the characters sound different but she reads too fast. I kept having to go back bc I missed a word or two. Eventually I slowed speed to .9 and that helped.

Perfection!

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

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.

Another winner

I’ve loved every book by Mhairi McFarlane, but so far this one might be my favorite. Narrator was great too.

Never disappointed!

Mhairi McFarlane never disappoints! I really appreciate how she writes about real-life, painful, difficult situations, exploring the twists and turns. Her characters have depth, are likable, interesting, smart and engaging. The reader was excellent, easy to hear and understand. I get my books on Audible as I drive a lot, and her books are the perfect companion 🙂. Thank you for sharing your gift, I look forward to what comes next.