Fall in love with the ultimate enemies-to-lovers, bookish romantic comedy in Battle of the Bookstores, a standalone romance novel by USA TODAY bestselling author Ali Brady. Packed with witty banter, bookstore rivalry, anonymous online friendships, and irresistible chemistry, this charming rom-com is perfect for readers who adore books about bookstores, slow-burn romance, and happily-ever-afters.

Bookstore managers Josie Klein and Ryan Lawson couldn't be more different. Josie runs a literary bookstore dedicated to classic fiction and serious reads, while Ryan manages a romance-only bookstore where love stories reign supreme. Although their stores sit across the street from each other in Boston, they've never had much reason to interact—until everything changes.

When the new owner decides to merge both bookstores into one, only one manager will keep their job. Throughout the summer, Josie and Ryan compete to see whose bookstore can generate the most profit. Their opposing personalities and competing events quickly turn into playful rivalry, undeniable attraction, and a battle neither expected.

Meanwhile, each has found comfort chatting with a mysterious online friend in a book lovers' forum. Neither realizes they're confiding in the very person they're trying to defeat in real life.

As walls between the bookstores—and their hearts—begin to crumble, Josie and Ryan discover that sometimes the best love stories are the ones you never see coming.

Filled with humor, heart, unforgettable characters, and plenty of literary references, Battle of the Bookstores is the perfect romance for book lovers and fans of cozy, feel-good rom-coms.

Battle of the Bookstores – A Standalone Bookish Romantic Comedy

Perfect for readers who love Emily Henry, Katherine Center, Abby Jimenez, Sarah Adams, and Ali Hazelwood, Battle of the Bookstores delivers charming romance, workplace competition, anonymous online friendships, and a celebration of the magic found inside bookstores.

Product Details

Title: Battle of the Bookstores

Author: Ali Brady

Format: Paperback

Series: Standalone Novel

Genre:

• Romantic Comedy
• Contemporary Romance
• Women's Fiction
• Book Club Fiction

Pages: 432

Dimensions: 1 x 7.8 x 5.1 inches

Publication Date: June 3, 2025

Features:

• Standalone romance novel
• Enemies-to-lovers romance
• Bookstore setting
• Opposites attract
• Workplace romance
• Anonymous online friendship
• Slow-burn romance
• Bookish romantic comedy
• Boston setting
• Perfect for book lovers

Author Biography

Ali Brady is the pen name of bestselling writing duo Alison Hammer and Bradeigh Godfrey. Together they write heartfelt, witty contemporary romances featuring lovable characters, emotional depth, and unforgettable happily-ever-afters. Their novels include The Beach Trap and Battle of the Bookstores, delighting readers with charming romances perfect for fans of feel-good fiction.