I really liked this book. I had my doubts, at the beginning (no one dips scones in tea!) and I think it may fall into a few of the common pitfalls of an author writing countries that are not their own (and not running it by anyone who is from there), but overall it was really enjoyable, and I can forgive a few minor inaccuracies. This, I think, is a perfect summer read, something that I can imagine myself enjoying on a beach somewhere sunny, and incredibly easy to get lost in. It was also fantastically queer, very fun and an all-round delight from start to finish. I think if you liked Casey McQuiston's other books, you'll definitely like this, and if you weren't so convinced by them, then this is worth giving a shot anyway, because it has some aspects - particularly, for me, the setting and the fast pace - that set it apart from their earlier books in a way that I could only appreciate.

Reading the story of Kit and Theo, past and present, as they ate and drank their way across sweltering Europe was such a treat. McQuiston immerses us in this coach tour, bringing to vivid life their fellow travelling companions (shout out to the Calums), as well as the character of each city they visit, making me so hungry for the incredible local delicacies they try along the way, and yearn for a cool-off in the sea. And that's just the backdrop- centre stage are Kit and Theo, unexpectedly reunited after a pretty awful breakup several years before. Trying to make sense of who they are to each other now is challenging - they have years of history, best friends through their teens before getting together in their early twenties. So much of who they were, who they are, and who they are becoming is woven together in their shared past, former love, and hurts that still have a sting to them. It was a delight to travel with them as they pick their way through, trying to work out how to interact from who they are now, but so aware of all that is not being said about what has come before. Agreeing on a body-count competition, trying to hook up with a new person in each location, is maybe an unusual approach, but it gives them a way to negotiate their new friendship. McQuiston was not joking when they said this was their horniest book, and I was here for it - seeing two chaotic queer people lean in hard to the heat and the food and the beautiful people they meet, with joy and exuberance, and without shame, was a lot of fun, and kind of refreshing. And without spoiling anything, I love how McQuiston handled the ending - absolute chef's kiss. Highly recommend as an escapist, gorgeous, sexy summer read, with a lot of heart.

This is third of McQuiston’s novels that I’ve read, and it has their characteristic wit and well drawn characters. The split POV is interesting - I don’t think I’ve read a novel that splits the POV’s via halves of the novel as this one did. It took me a little while to adjust to Theo’s POV, and by the time I felt I had we’d shifted into Kit’s. Theo is a brash, funny character on the surface, hiding their insecurities, and whilst I understood this characterisation I did also find Theo a little bit… irritating at times. I also felt we were told quite often that Theo was disorganised and felt their life was crumbling, but could have benefited from seeing this more - they seemed relatively together to me, particularly as the book opens with a show of their competence. Their push-back against their wealthy family and not wanting to take money to help out their potentially failing business was also a plot-point that I disliked. I do get where it’s coming from, and the desire to strike out on your own but…God plot-points where characters could just take money and don’t (particularly as with Theo it’s from their sister - with whom they have a decent relationship) never sit well with me, though that’s a personal bugbear. I also wonder why Theo wouldn’t change their name, if they want to distance themselves from being the ‘other sibling’ and get away from the nepo-baby stuff.

The food descriptions were lucious, and as this is a big part of the story this is important. McQuiston nailed it. The sex scenes were also suitably sexy, although there was an occasional coyness (I think to avoid ‘gendering’ Theo’s genitalia as they’re non-binary, but there’s nothing inherently gendered about describing body parts) that made some of the sex scenes slightly… tamer feeling than they ought to be, considering this is a book about sex and food. The food definitely delivered though - don’t read this hungry.

I enjoyed Kit’s POV a lot, actually more than Theo’s. I almost wished he’d opened the book, or that we’d alternated POV’s, but it does also work structurally to have his POV recontextualise what we know so far, coming in mid way. I really felt the love he had for Theo - I bought their previous relationship much more from his POV, though this may just be because it was the most recent one so it’s sticking in my mind more clearly (barring the epilogue). Through Kit’s recontextualising I really felt these characters' relationship, and the realness of them. Kit's past with his mother absolutely broke my heart. I also thought the stuff around Theo’s non-binary identity was handled well (as one would expect from an NB author), and it was refreshing to see. I had initially thought the characters were both cis men from the blurb, so that could have been a little clearer for those specifically seeking an m/m romance - I enjoyed the romance despite this expectation, but others may not? - or to help those specifically seeking an NB character find this book easier.

There were just a couple of other bugbears I had. There’s quite a bit of French peppered in, which I liked, but there was one phone call between two francophone characters where both characters should presumably speaking French… but then one of the characters then starts speaking French, implying the prior conversation was in English? This was weird. There’s also a sexy bit with a peach that felt very much like a reference to Call Me by Your Name, but wasn’t referenced as such by feels like a reference but isn't referenced and it felt like Theo at least would have been very aware of the similarity. Perhaps it was unintentional, or McQuiston was trying not to draw attention to it, but it did jar somewhat.

These are relatively minor complaints, though. The love story is gorgeous - I usually find miscommunication as a plot point irritating, but here it felt very real. I loved seeing how the characters had changed and grown from their younger selves, and how the relationship was a good fit now. The ending really built up the tension and had me rooting for the happy ending, which delivered. The epilogue was also gorgeous, and felt like a perfect way to tie up all the loose ends. McQuiston is skilled at writing these very real feeling romances with witty, fun characters, and this feels like a culmination of all of their skills. I can’t wait to see what they do next.

Thank you to NetGalley and Pan Macmillan for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Spoiler: This book put me in the worst slump.

Okay, I'll start off by saying that I am sure this book has its audience, but it was not for me. I tried really hard to like it, I hoped it would grow on me, but it was hopeless.

I want to begin with the positives.
The idea of the book sounded amazing, and I was really excited for a fun romance. But boy, I did not know what I was getting myself into. Theo and Kit, childhood best friends and estranged ex-lovers find themselves on the most romantic food and wine tour of Europe. They've both grown so much in their time apart, and now have another chance to be together. Sounds great, right? I thought so too.
It had great bisexual representation and a nice non-binary coming out story. It also helped that there were tiny splashes of humour throughout the book.

But, as much as I wanted to, I could not grow to love the characters. Kit, especially, had the potential to be a great character. He is passionate, kind and smart, but this is all outshined by his lust for Theo. They become the subject of ALL of his thoughts. It felt like the only point of their existence is to be a love interest. Kit's whole potential was wasted on a horny obsession.
Now, Theo. I loathed their whole struggles with being a nepo baby. Their whole family (both parents and sisters) are very wealthy , accepting and supportive. I understand that they wanted to build something for themselves, but the way they were acting to be poor was insufferable. Theo kept refusing their help, which felt realistic up to a certain point. The truth is, any person who needed financial help would accept it at some point. They were acting like they had no option, when the reality was they had multiple loving and supportive family members who believed in them.

Now, the romance. Theo and Kit did not have chemistry. They were both selfish and did not communicate to save their lives. I understand that they have history, but it seemed to me that the whole development and intimacy happened off page.
They had sexual chemistry, yes, but they somehow had sexual chemistry with half of Europe. Speaking of, I have read my fair share of smut, I enjoy it, but here it felt vulgar. The side characters felt less like people and more like sex pawns.

Some scenes were absolutely cringe-worthy and I really wish I could wipe them from my memory. When did we start sexualising having a nose bleed? How is it sexy to French kiss someone while they are literally bleeding into the kiss? Just, no, thank you.

This was a massive disappointment for me, unfortunately, but I'm sure it will find its audience.

Unfortunately don’t think this was a good match for me.
I find a certain connection with the main characters quite important to be invested in the story. Especially if there’s a romance involved (ugh well - was it even a romance?). I want to feel the tension and anticipation and the buildup towards the end. I want to not be able to put the book down because I’m so immersed in the world the author build.
But it wasn’t the case for me sadly… At some point I was more enjoying the food and scenery description (and there were a LOT) instead of the actual plot. I dropped this book multiple times over the weeks because it just didn’t do anything for me 🤷🏻‍♀️

It was my first book by this author, so I have nothing to compare it too. I think I may have too high expectations though because R,R&Blue is one of my favourite movies and I’ve heard SO much good from her other books.

oh dear. maybe casey mcquiston was a one off. i liked red white and royal blue. i thought one last stop was fine. i did not like their ya debut shara wheeler, but the pairing is. oh it's not what i was looking for.

This is a story of best friends to lovers and them split apart. It's full of misunderstandings, first love and how time allows you to know yourself better. Theo accidentally sabotaged their relationship with Kit and regretted it every single day. When they finally meet again on a tour they were supposed to take together, there is a lot of tension and a lot of skirting around their feelings. Ultimately they finally realise that they still love one another and with a lot of help from their friends they get their HEA. . If anyone deserved to be happy it's these two who complete each other and their love leaps off of the pages.

Theo and Kit, after breaking up on their way to a European food and wine tour, wait until the last moment to redeem their refund vouchers and end up on the same trip. They make a bet to see who can sleep with the most people throughout the tour including charismatic tour guide Fabrizio. Needless to say this is not the healthiest of coping mechanisms...

I raced through this book in two sittings. The settings were beautifully described, as was the food and drink. I loved the dual POVs and the exploration of what it truly means to be yourself. While the ending was predictable, this didn't detract from the enjoyment of the journey. Another winner from Casey McQuiston.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC!

Prepare to be swept off your feet and taken on a rollercoaster ride of emotions with "The Pairing" by Casey McQuiston. This book is an absolute gem, filled to the brim with humor, sensuality, and an abundance of pop culture references that will leave you grinning from ear to ear.

From the moment I delved into its pages, I was completely captivated by McQuiston's trademark wit and charm. They have a knack for creating characters that feel incredibly real and relatable, and in "The Pairing," they have truly outdone themselves. Theo and Kit, our lovable protagonists, stole my heart with their quirks, flaws, and undeniable chemistry.

One of the highlights of this book is the dual POVs. Getting to see the world through Theo and Kit's eyes was an absolute treat.

Honestly a perfect summer read!

Thank you Casey McQuiston for bringing more disaster bisexuals into the world.

No, this is not a literary masterpiece, but I had a splendid time. I love the silly and lighthearted tone in which this is written. Not everything is completely realistic, some things work a bit too perfectly, but that's alright in my opinion as it works for the story.
The enjoyable romance, pining, and spice, paired with beautiful depictions of numerous sunny European locations, make this an ideal summer read.

*eARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*

sometimes i forget just how good books can be, and casey mcquiston's books are always ones that remind me of this. reading this was a totally immersive, unapologetic, and indulgent sensory experience that i couldn't get enough of, from the imagery, to the food and drink descriptions, to the intimacy, to the aching and yearning i felt on behalf of the characters. also i felt so touched by how this book had a nonbinary main character and how this was handled very realistically - it was wonderful to read the perspective of kit and how he completely loved and accepted theo because they were now being completely themself. also the scenes where kit reflected on gendered bodies in renaissance art were so beautiful. i thoroughly recommend!!

Theo and Kit have gone from childhood friends to estranged exes. Four years ago they broke up while on their way to join a European food and wine tour, and they haven't seen or spoken to each other since.
The voucher for the tour was valid for 48 months, and separately both have decided now is the time to use it, and so find themselves on the same tour.
This book has plenty going for it, the descriptions of the various locations and the food, the fact that both lead characters are bisexual and instead of this being seen as something weird nobody bats an eyelid. The problem I have with this book is Theo, as a character I fail to understand why Kit would still be in love with them, Theo comes across as one of those people who is allowed to be mean to other people but doesn't think that anybody should dare to be mean to them.

A joyous slutty bisexual European summer filled with food, wine, culture and sex

This was such a great read! I had the best time reading this book and didn't want to put it down

I love that each new city got its own chapter (it didn't feel rushed or drawn out) and I loved the little illustrations in the chapter header and pairings that went with each city

I really enjoyed that the first half of the book was from Theo's pov and the second half was from Kit's. I liked that you got both povs with all the feelings of hurt/angst/longing/love but it wasn't constantly flip floping between the two

I loved both the main characters and also the side characters, the whole tour group was so fun

- second chance romance
- forced proximity
- road trip
- bisexual and non binary main characters

A fun romp through Europe, with excellent descriptions of food and wine and a lot of sexy time. Definitely Casey McQuiston's horniest book yet!

"The Pairing" by Casey McQuistion is an enchanting tale bathed in the warm glow of summer, where the paths of two former flames, Theo and Kit, converge unexpectedly on a culinary odyssey across Europe. What begins as a playful challenge to tally up conquests soon evolves into a journey of self-discovery and rekindled affection. McQuistion's vivid prose transports readers to the sun-kissed landscapes of France, Spain, and Italy, each locale pulsating with its own unique charm.

From the bustling streets of Paris to the tranquil vineyards of Tuscany, the narrative brims with tantalizing descriptions that awaken the senses. The culinary delights described with such fervor by Theo and Kit left me yearning to savor each dish alongside them, my palate tantalized with every page turn.

Yet, beyond the allure of exotic locales and delectable cuisine lies the heart of the story—the complex and endearing characters of Theo and Kit. Their breakup, shrouded in misunderstanding and personal struggles, unfolds into a poignant exploration of ambition, independence, and the enduring bonds of love. Kit's determination to forge their own path amidst the shadows of familial expectation, juxtaposed with Theo's longing to fulfill his culinary dreams, imbues the narrative with depth and resonance.

Their banter crackles with wit and humor, injecting moments of levity into their tumultuous journey. As their shared history unfurls through alternating perspectives, it becomes evident that their connection transcends time and circumstance—they are, undeniably, soulmates intertwined by destiny.

McQuistion deftly navigates themes of identity and acceptance, particularly through Kit's poignant coming-out journey as non-binary—a testament to the author's commitment to inclusivity and representation.

The tender romance that blossoms between Theo and Kit is rendered with sensitivity and authenticity, each intimate moment woven with care and tenderness. Their gradual realization of the depth of their feelings for one another is both heartwarming and profoundly moving, underscoring the timeless adage that true love never truly fades.

Actual rating 4.25⭐️

I loved this book with my entire heart and I honestly can't believe how fast I finished it.

My first ARC and third book I ever read from Casey McQuiston.

There is sooo much of this book that shouldn't make sense, but it totally does.
It started so slow and it just kept that pace even though in the second part there was more happening but it was perfect that way. The writing was beautiful and the characters felt so real so it just went together really well.
I loved how the book was separated in two parts, the first told in Theo's pov and the second from Kit's. It's maybe the first book that I read in a while where I loved both MC's equally!
I loved the trips and the food, their little competition and all the side characters made this book so much better.
I really liked how Casey showcased all of Theo's insecurities and Kit's feelings.
Honestly thought I would be disappointed with the end after that last night in Palermo, but it was literally perfection!!!
One thing I always admire and adore in Casey's books is the found family and this was no exception.
I will have to reread it closer to release day because I can't stop thinking about this book!

Thank you so incredibly much to Casey McQuiston and NetGalley for an e-ARC in exchange of an honest review.

I had high hopes for this book as I absolutely loved 'Red, white and royal blue' when I read it several years ago now. I started out positively, enjoying the way the novel started and the premise of two exes being forced back into each other's company after 4 years apart, and for the first 100 pages or so this continued, but not for long.

There is really not a lot of plot here, it's simply two exes each pretending that they're over each other and doing this by sleeping with pretty much every one they meet on their travels (who, all seem to be extremely attractive and ready to sleep with them for no reason!) I don't want to sound too negative, but I couldn't finish this, I got about half way through and simply had enough of food descriptions interspersed (and sometimes mixed) with explicit sex and no plot or engaging characters.

"The Pairing" is Casey McQuiston’s latest book, and I thoroughly enjoyed it! The premise is that Theo and Kit, exes who had planned a European tour together, end up on that exact tour years later. We get to follow their antics through numerous amazing cities.

The narration style of this book was a delightful surprise! We get snapshots from Theo and Kit's past, and we also get a dual POV in a way I’ve never seen before. I think it nicely broke up the story, which was quite dense with descriptions of food and architecture.

As a foodie who has spent many days chasing the perfect gelato or croissant, I absolutely loved all the delicious food in this book. However, I do think the plot got lost at times, and the side characters were somewhat forgotten amidst all the food and drink. This might bother some people, but for me, it was such a feel-good experience that I didn't mind the focus being on the "vibes".

Lastly, as is no surprise with Casey’s books, "The Pairing" was unapologetically queer and filled with authentic representation. I felt particularly seen by the bisexual representation in this book, which doesn't happen too often.

Overall, I highly recommend "The Pairing" as your summer read, ideally paired with a sweet treat!

Theo and Kit are exes who split in a blaze prior to a food tour of Europe. Now Theo (Theodora) is finally using her rescheduled ticket to get away from things and take a break before her sommelier exam. But who should she meet but Kit, also redeeming his ticket. Things start off tense but friendship regrows out of a hook-up competition and Theo realises she's falling back in love with Kit.

The book is split into two halves, the first half narrated by Theo and the second half by Kit. I loved reading both their perspectives on both current and past events.

The characterisation of our two mains was beautiful and Theo and Kit were so well-rounded but a lot of the side characters felt flat and under-used, the rest of the people on the food tour for example.

Also as someone who is not a foodie and not a drinker the constant food and drink descriptions got a little boring. I preferred reading about the scenery and the local people more. Also excellent queer rep throughout, Theo and Kit are both bi/pan and there were multiple displays of this, plus side characters - those of which I'd have liked to have known more of their story.

I'm kind of at a loss for words, because I tend to love anything that CMQ writes, to the point where I've been desperately doing everything I can to get my hands on an ARC of this novel (thank you Netgalley & Pan Macmillan!).

There are many good things to say about it. The humor was there, the side characters were fun and delightful, the MCs were messy and true to life and made honest mistakes in a way that I love. Casey's characters are what I like the most about their writing, and they didn't disappoint this time around (Also, it's Fabrizio's world and we're just living in it).

I think ultimately it's just not my cup of tea, romance-wise. Although I love and respect the concept of slutty MCs, it feels disjointed when you're trying to get your readers to connect with the main pairing, pardon the pun. It doesn't feel like they're enjoying sleeping around with all these other people when they're yearning for someone else. The second half also took tension away from the final resolution, since we were already seeing them sleep together, but not really? The no-kissing rule felt childish and took away from scenes that could have been more interesting otherwise. I don't know! I wish I could properly express why the romance didn't make me feel anything, especially when I LIKED the characters and I liked them together.

I also understand wanting to describe lush and decadent meals and travel destinations and experiences and art. I get it. But it felt... like it was trying too hard? There were so many long paragraphs with historical and cultural anecdotes, and long-winded descriptions that my eyes just glazed over. Once again, I understand it! I see what they were going for! I just think it's a little too much. I was also expecting something with a little more meat, plot-wise, especially since the last book of theirs I read was Shara Wheeler.

I might revisit the book when it actually comes out and change my mind, but right now my thoughts are: it's a CMQ book so of course it's still going to be good, but I've DEVOURED and LOVED every single one of their other novels, and this wasn't the case at all.