Edward Schmit’s ‘The Open Era’ is a Grand Slam Romance
Edward Schmit’s compelling debut novel, The Open Era, takes to the tennis courts to explore mental health and a romance between rivals. Read on for the review!
‘Indie Darling’ Introduces Us to a Delightful Dolly Parton–Loving Detective
Part mystery, part meditation on the demands of the music industry, Indie Darling by Lauren Nossett is a fresh addition to the private detective genre.
When We Spoke to the Dead: How Ghosts Gave American Women Their Voice — Review
When We Spoke to the Dead: How Ghosts Gave American Women Their Voice by Ilise S. Carter is a spirited deep dive into the macabre movement of spiritualism and its feminist origins. Check out our review!
‘People Watching’ by Hannah Bonam-Young is the Weakest Link — Review
People Watching by Hannah Bonam-Young struggles to sell us on its problematic character dynamics and steamy scenes. Read on for our review!
The Book of Blood and Roses Review: A Seductive Supernatural Romance
The Book of Blood and Roses by Annie Summerlee crafts a seductive adventure into the heart of paranormal academia. Read on for our review!
No Amount of Grumpy Scots Can Save ‘Some Like It Scot’ From Itself — Review
Some Like It Scot by Pepper Basham features a predictable Scottish romance between an adventurous writer and a grumpy castle owner. Read on for our review!
‘Only Lovers in the Building’ by Nadine Gonzalez Offers a Breezy Poolside Read
Only Lovers in the Building by Nadine Gonzalez is a light-hearted beach read featuring sunny Miami vibes, vibrant Art Deco architecture, and an amusing poolside book club. Read on for our review!
Prepare to Have a Ball with ‘Pickleballers’ by Ilana Long
Pickleballers by Ilana Long offers readers a fun, light-hearted glimpse into the pickleball phenomenon with an amateur rom-com entry. Read on for our review!
Alexis Henderson’s ‘House of Hunger’ is Dark and Delicious
House of Hunger by Alexis Henderson offers the chilling allure of a great gothic horror with rich imagery and sexy sapphic romances. Read on for our review!
Atmosphere Review: A Cosmic Love Story by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid tells the poignant love story of two astronauts navigating the dreams and dangers of space travel. Read on for our review!
About US
Cool Girl Critiques is run by Tomatometer-approved critic, Alicia Gilstorf. Follow along for opinions on film, books, and pop culture that celebrate the female gaze.