Ellen O'Clover (The Heartbreak Hotel) puts her own spirited spin on an enemies-to-lovers romance in If Not You. Five years ago, Mattie French and Campbell Porter were copywriting interns at one of Chicago's leading advertising agencies. But when Mattie watched her dream of receiving a return offer slip through her fingers right into Campbell's lap, their somewhat healthy competition became replaced with Mattie's utter disappointment and disdain for Campbell's ostentatious outfits, cocky smirks, and annoyingly talented writing. She left to take a role as a copywriter at a small, well-respected agency.
Now Mattie's and Campbell's companies have been chosen to pitch for the advertising account of Wicksteed, a high-end resort chain, and Mattie finds that both Campbell and their renewed rivalry are entirely unavoidable. To prepare for their final pitches, Mattie's and Campbell's teams travel to gorgeous Colorado mountains and breathtaking California beaches to experience everything the luxurious Wicksteed resorts have to offer. As the two are forced together to ride horses, relax at the spa, and play nice for the sake of their clients, Mattie begins to see a different side of Campbell. They open up to each other, sharing deep fears and intimate dreams, and the poignant connection sparks their relationship.
O'Clover's shrewd humor and savvy prose result in a riveting competition full of quick wit and crafty quips. She also employs her signature tenderness and emotional depth to create a romance about finding someone who makes the hard parts of life easier. If Not You is full of passion, hope, and belonging. --Clara Newton, freelance reviewer