Editorial review
The Work Boyfriend
By Rebecca Mardon
Rebecca Mardon’s holiday romantic comedy The Work Boyfriend has all the necessary components for a cozy, feel-good read that will keep you warm all winter long! Set in Toronto in 2005, Mardon’s book follows its protagoni...
Reviewed by CANREADS
Rebecca Mardon’s holiday romantic comedy The Work Boyfriend has all the necessary components for a cozy, feel-good read that will keep you warm all winter long! Set in Toronto in 2005, Mardon’s book follows its protagonist, Kelly, who seems to have it all: a sleek downtown condo, a promising publicity job at a major cable television company, and a long-time boyfriend, Rob, who she met in college. But beneath the surface, cracks begin to show. Kelly grows increasingly close to her “work boyfriend,” Garett—the one person who seems to truly understand her. With friends getting married, pregnancy announcements piling up, and an engagement ring looming over the holidays, Kelly begins to spiral. Her two worlds collide when Garett and his girlfriend join Rob and Kelly for a post-Christmas dinner, forcing her to confront what she really wants out of life. Is marriage, a condo, and a stable career enough to bring her happiness, or is she chasing someone else’s version of success?
Mardon’s captivating writing draws readers into a heartwarming and relatable journey that speaks to the complexities of modern life for a twenty-something in the city. Kelly’s internal battle between what her head says is right and what her heart craves resonates with anyone who’s ever felt pressured to check all the “adulting” boxes. Ultimately, The Work Boyfriend takes a sharp, relatable look at how societal expectations can shape—and shake—a young woman’s sense of identity. This book beautifully captures the struggle between the life you’ve been told to want and the one you truly desire.
Mardon also doesn’t shy away from how daunting change can be, but explores it through the ups and downs of Kelly’s journey. She skillfully crafts a protagonist who is flawed yet relatable. Her authentic portrayal of self-doubt and the pursuit of happiness will leave readers reflecting on their own choices.
Mardon’s writing is witty, sharp, and filled with humour. Her vivid depiction of the cities of Toronto and Kingston add layers of authenticity, making it the perfect read for anyone familiar with these locales. Funny, heartfelt, and thought-provoking, The Work Boyfriend is the perfect cozy Christmas read for anyone who has ever questioned the life they’re living and wondered, Is this truly me? A charming and honest tale of self-discovery, Mardon’s novel will stay with readers long after the final page.
—CANREADS TORONTO BOOK REVIEW