Well, Actually by Mazey Eddings Review (Spoiler-Free)
I received an advance reader copy of Well, Actually by Mazey Eddings from NetGalley and the publisher, Headline Eternal—and I’m so glad I did, because this book completely swept me off my feet. It was my first read from Mazey Eddings, and it definitely won’t be my last. Her writing is witty, hilarious, and full of heart.
From the very first chapter, I was hooked by Eva’s bold, chaotic energy and Rylie’s quietly magnetic presence. Their chemistry sparks with tension, shared history, and just enough pettiness to make every scene pop. Between the fake dating premise, the second-chance romance, and constantly being in public eye thanks to their social media jobs, Well, Actually delivers a wildly fun, emotionally rich, and spicy love story that’s impossible to put down. Keep reading for my full (spoiler-free!) review, including tropes, vibes, and why this book deserves a spot on your TBR.
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Well, Actually by Mazey Eddings
Rating:
Spice:
Taylor Swift Songs That Vibes: “How You Get the Girl”
Tropes: Black cat/golden retriever, forced proximity, workplace romance, second chance romance, bisexual and pansexual representation
Favorite Quote: “I want to spend every day listening to you be an absolute shithead to me. If at the end of my life someone asked me what I’d do with one more hour, one more minute, I would fight with you. Argue with you. Kiss you and hug you and hold you. Anything for one more second with you. I’d choose this every single time.”

What is Well, Actually About?
Well, Actually by Mazey Eddings is a rom-com that blends heart, heat, and witty banter that jumps off of the page in all the best ways.
Eva hosts a quirky internet talk show where she interviews minor celebrities over hot dogs (yes, really). Rylie, her ex from six years ago, now runs a podcast focused on dismantling toxic masculinity. When Eva stitches one of Rylie’s clips—publicly calling him bad at dating and bad in bed—it goes viral, and not in a good way.
To save face, the two are pushed into a fake dating stunt. Eva and Rylie go on a series of dates that Rylie then dissects on his show. But what starts as a PR move quickly brings old feelings to the surface… and reignites a spark neither of them were ready for.
Why You’ll Love Well, Actually
- Second-chance romance with fake dating, podcast drama, and a touch of pettiness
- Banter that snaps, sizzles, and sometimes hurts in the best way
- Thoughtful relationship dynamics, including couples therapy and emotional growth
- A romance set in the world of talk shows, podcasts, and performative vulnerability
- Real feelings, messy healing, and so many swoony moments
- Basically, the internet drama love story we’ve all been waiting for
What I Wished There Was More Of
While I loved Eva’s boldness and chaotic charm, there were moments where she felt a bit naïve—especially when it came to navigating her career. At times, I wanted to shake her (lovingly), but that vulnerability was also part of her journey.
Final Thoughts
Well, Actually is the kind of romance that sneaks up on you—in the best way. What starts as a spicy, chaotic fake dating situation turns into a surprisingly emotional journey full of growth, vulnerability, and healing.
Eva and Rylie’s chemistry is undeniable, but what really hooked me was how layered their connection became. From hilarious hot dog interviews to couples therapy, every moment felt intentional.
While Eva occasionally felt a little naïve, especially in her career, watching her grow into someone who knows her worth made the story that much more satisfying. And Rylie? Certified book boyfriend material.
If you’re looking for a second-chance romance that’s messy, modern, and full of heart, Well, Actually belongs on your TBR.
Before You Go…
If Well, Actually by Mazey Eddings isn’t already on your TBR, consider this your official sign to add it immediately. It’s sharp, spicy, and full of chaotic energy—with a fake dating setup that turns into something so much deeper. Whether you’re in it for the banter, the tension, or the healing arc, this rom-com delivers on every level.
If you’re on the hunt for more swoony reads, don’t miss my list of August 2025 Romance and Fantasy Book Releases You Need on Your TBR.
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