Kate Spencer’s ode to NYC rom-coms a la Nora Ephron kicks off with an unforgettable meet disaster
ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley
In a New York Minute stands out in this Spring’s rom-com lineup with an unforgettable meet disaster, a great friend group, and opposites attract tropey goodness. It’s an ode to NYC rom-coms that aims for Nora Ephron vibes.
I loved that Franny wasn’t a typical “quirky” heroine. I loved that In a New York Minute incorporated details that make it a truly contemporary rom-com — from the role social media plays in Franny and Hayes’ meet disaster, to Hayes being a divorced guy at 32, and to the fact that Tyler, the assistant in his office goes by they/them pronouns. It never seems like an effort to be woke, just a natural detail that reflects the now.
But after a super strong first half, In a New York Minute just lags in the middle. There’s a random second possible (but who are we kidding?) love interest, time spent doing the interior decorating in the office, and I found myself skimming ahead. Eventually it gets back on track.
There’s a lot to like here, especially in the first half. It just didn’t totally sweep me off my feet.
Heat level: fade to black
3.5 stars
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