This book is so utterly adorable! I thought that the dual narrative of modern day and the D&D campaign might be a bit gimmicky, but it really isn't - it's seamlessly melded and the two stories inform each other really beautifully. I loved Sadie and Noah as the main plot, but also really looked forward to Jaylie and Loren's parts - just enough fantasy to really be satisfying, on top of an already really satisfying love story. The themes of burnout and finding yourself are really resonant and felt very realistic. I immediately preordered a paperback for myself and also forced an ebook upon my best friend. Probably one of my favourite reads of the year!

🎲✨ Roll for Romance by Lenora Woods ✨🎲
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 | 🌶️🌶️ | Open Door Romance

Roll for initiative… and roll for feelings, because Roll for Romance cast "Charm Person" on me from page one. This swoony, nerdy, open-door romance switches between the real world and a Dungeons & Dragons campaign in the most magical way. The alternating narratives were such a clever mechanic — and as someone who’s dipped their toes into D&D, I loved how it captured the spirit of the game: the bravery to become someone new, the freedom to explore hidden parts of yourself, and the joy of found family around the table.

Sadie is a relatable, quietly fierce heroine. She’s going through it — trying to find work, battling the weight of uncertainty, and figuring out whether to pursue her creative passions or go the “safe” route. As someone in a similar season, I saw so much of myself in her. (And maybe that’s why I had to take little rests between chapters — it hit too close to home in the best way.)

Noah? Insert dreamy bardic sigh here. The slow burn was a very slow burn, but the heat finally kicks in at 57% (yes, I checked my Kindle too 😅), and the payoff was 💯. The waterfall scene? 👀🫦 Say less.

I also adored Liam — every party needs a loyal bestie and great DM, and he was Sadie’s anchor throughout the story. The rest of the cast of characters were great too though I would love to see more of their storylines if there are any future books!

The banter? So good I wanted to roll a d20 to see if it landed (it always did). All the food descriptions gave such cosy vibes. They had me making ramen for lunch immediately, and I need The Alchemist bar to be real. Between the magical setting, creative journey, open-hearted characters, and the twist in the D&D campaign that legit made me gasp, this book had me hooked.

Also… I’m not saying I’ve been googling local D&D groups and Ren faires since finishing this, but I am saying I rolled for charisma and now I'm going out to buy a pretty dice set of my own.

🎨💖 A heartfelt, nerdy, romantic tale about taking creative risks, being brave enough to follow your passions, and letting love in — even when you think your heart’s failed its saving throw.

Thanks to the author, Quercus Books and NetGalley for the e-ARC to review. All thoughts are, as always, my own.

Tropes & Vibes:
🎲 Found family
🎨 Artist heroine / cinnamon roll love interest
🗺️ Parallel storylines in D&D & real world
🎀 Soft FMC
🔥 Slow burn with spice (waterfall scene = chef’s kiss)
🧅 Layers, emotions, and healing
📉 Creativity over capitalism
💘 Open door romance

I had such a fun time with this book. I was immediately drawn to it by the cover (stunning!) and the premise sounded unlike a lot of the romance I have been reading lately.

Roll for Romance is a feel good romance set in two storylines. The main story takes place in real life Texas where Sadie has gone to stay with her best friend Liam after needing a break from her life in New York. He convinces her to join his newly formed Dungeons and Dragons group, which includes new to town bartender Noah. The secondary story follows the DnD campaign of their characters.

I loved the dual storylines. It felt well balanced and it was fun getting to know Sadie and Noah through their DnD characters. I couldn’t help but relate to Sadie’s feeling of burnout and loss of purpose in life. She was such a sympathetic FMC and I was rooting for her to make the best decision for herself in the end. Noah is the ultimate golden retriever MMC and the chemistry between the two of them was perfect. I liked how clear they were with each other about their intentions - love a book where the characters have good communication!

The side characters were fleshed out and I enjoyed seeing the group grow closer over the course of the campaign. I could really visualise the story (both real world and fantasy world) as I was reading the book. A delight to read.

Thank you to NetGalley and Quercus Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

The most original romance I've read in ages! The dual narrative of the real world and the dramatisation of the D&D games was fantastic. So respectful of the game and tabletop gaming which is so often the butt of the joke. I smiled the while way through this. For everyone who loves fantasy and romance but Romantasy hasn't quite clicked for them.

I was absolutely not expecting a man with shoulder length hair and a man bun to be such a golden retriever but I loved it!

Did I understand a single thing going on with the D&D scenes? Nope. Did the romance make up for it? Definitely!

Oh my GOD. I always forget how much I enjoy a romance! Loved that D&D was a main focus of the story and feel the balance of the campaign as well as the main story was perfect.

I didn't think anything would scratch that itch after reading a couple other D&D based romances, but this definitely hit the spot.

Thank you for the arc!

Lenora Woods makes you fall in love with both the contemporary romance aspect as well as the fantasy romance aspect simultaneously.

Watching the two main characters fall in love while also watching their DND characters interact and flirt was a very unique and fun experience!

There was a bit of a pacing issue in the first half for me and the formatting for the eARC made it a little difficult for me to read sometimes!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4.25/5 stars – Roll for Romance is a delightful, feel-good read with a fresh premise and a love story that totally won me over.

This book delivers two storylines in one: the real-world slow-burn romance between the two main characters, and the fantasy DnD campaign they’re playing together—which was such a clever way to mirror their real emotions and dynamics. I loved the contrast of the small town romance and the fantasy quest - it's ideal for romantasy readers who want something a bit more lighthearted and fun.

The romance is so cute. There’s chemistry, tension, and those soft little moments that sneak up on you. You can’t help but root for them. It’s wholesome but still gives you that swoon factor.

The other characters are absolutely full of life. They add humor, chaos, and heart without ever stealing the spotlight.

This was such a fun read and I loved these characters so much! I might even be tempted to learn more about DnD 😅

💭 #QOTD  You're making your roleplay character. What are you playing?

Title: Roll for Romance
Author: Lenora Wood
Pages: 368
Rating: 2.5/5
Spice/Romance level: 🩷🩷🩷 - romance with some vanilla spice
#Arc eCopy ( #gifted ) - review left voluntarily
UK publish date - 17th July 2025

As someone who roleplayed in msn chat rooms (yes I'm that old) dabbled in table top roleplay, did some rp on the virtual game second life, as well as playing WoW (before the scandal) I thought this would be right up my street. Especially after reading critical roll "Tusk Love" unfortunately the hits didn't land, and I just couldn't gel with the characters and the storyline.

As a Fantasy reader, I wanted more, as a romance reader, I wanted more Banter, and humour and to feel some urgency.

However, there were some gorgeous swoony moments and the additional content at the end was perfect. (, how to create a character, alchemist specials, even the questions and topics)

The discussion of burnout. Expectations and taking risks hit hard and I think is important for discussions in literature. Is high a high flying career and being constantly exhausted more important than following your passion and being happy? I thoroughly enjoyed the D&D adventures though! That was perfection! 🤌🏻👌🏻

I think i would have enjoyed this more if I hadn't recently read tusk love, and don't other small town, cutesy romances. That being said, the story was unique. It made my nerdy self smile and I adored Liam!!! If there was a sequel, I'd definitely read it for the D&D adventure alone! That was a twist in itself!!

You'll love this book if you like
- tabletop roleplay
- texas summers
- summer romance
- roleplay
- dungeons and dragons
- small nod to fantasy
- friends to lovers

Will you be reading this? Let me know in the comments

I really didn’t know what to expect from a D&D romance. I wasn’t entirely sure how the real world plot and fantasy adventure would mesh but Lenora joined them seamlessly. I loved how we switched between Sadie & Noah getting to know each other at the same time Jaylie and Loren do.

Sadie’s character development was done so beautifully the subtle nods to her burnout/ depression really helped flesh out her character without feeling like they dominated the plot and Noah’s gentle soft free spirit persona was so well written especially as we come to learn some of the reasonings behind it.

I would read an entire series about this ensemble cast. They were perfect.

This was so incredibly wholesome! I loved the variety in the characters and the plot and pacing. The introduction to the characters was a little rushed, I felt - I struggled to get a feel for Noah as a character until about 30% of the way into the book. But I love love loved the mix of real life and then the DnD storytelling, it was such a fun read!

I didn’t expect a D&D-inspired romance to tug so sweetly at my heart….but here we are. Lenora Woods rolled a nat 20 on this one.

Roll for Romance is a cozy, low-stakes, emotionally sincere romance about two people navigating life’s curveballs while falling for each other across a fantasy world and a very real Texas summer. It’s about friendship, second chances, and the weird magic of roleplaying your way back to yourself.

Sadie Brooks is in that liminal “what now?” space after losing her NYC marketing job. So she does what any slightly heartbroken millennial would: flees to a small town in Texas to crash with her best friend... and finally agrees to join his Dungeons & Dragons campaign. (Relatable.)

Her in-game persona? Jaylie, a badass human cleric blessed by the Goddess of Luck. Her real-life counterpart? A little lost, a little burned out, and not exactly feeling lucky lately.

Enter Noah Walker, a charismatic, guitar-playing bartender turned newbie bard. Their characters flirt, adventure, and heal each other in-game.

Meanwhile, outside the dice rolls, Sadie and Noah are doing exactly the same.

Why it worked for me:
* The dual journey—fantasy + real-life—was so well balanced. I loved how the story mirrored Sadie’s growth through both Jaylie (confident, magical, brave) and her real self, who’s trying to figure out what she wants next. Watching her slowly align those two selves? Chef’s kiss.
* This is a romance for the soft nerd in all of us. If you’ve ever bonded with someone over character sheets, table snacks, and that one ridiculous in-game decision that changes everything—you’ll feel seen.
* Noah is such a good cinnamon roll. He’s adventurous, emotionally available, and totally willing to follow Sadie’s lead. I really appreciated how their dynamic was one of mutual curiosity, not just sexual tension, but “I want to know you” energy.
* Sadie’s career arc hit close to home. She’s burnt out, questioning her worth after corporate let her down. Her journey toward rediscovering what she actually wants (not just what she thought she should want) felt super grounded and relatable.

This book is like a long weekend with good friends, pizza, dice clattering across the table, and your crush sitting across from you in full bardic charm.

It’s not just about romance…it’s about stepping into a new version of yourself, one brave enough to choose joy and adventure, even when it means risking comfort.

Read this if you love:
* Found family vibes
* Friends-to-lovers energy with a hint of opposites attract
* TTRPGs, especially D&D
* Characters who grow gently but profoundly
* That “summer of self-discovery” energy
* A little bardic flirtation (okay, a lot)

Roll for Romance is a tender love letter to tabletop gaming and second chances. It’s cozy, nerdy, emotionally rich, and just swoony enough to make you wish you had your own bard at the table.

Whether you’re a seasoned dungeon master or a complete newbie, this one’s worth rolling the dice on.

Thank you Lenora Woods for providing this ARC of Roll For Romance in exchange for an honest review.

Summary:
A beautifully crafted blend of real life and tabletop fantasy, Roll For Romance brings together a heartwarming, steamy romance and a clever narrative structure that weaves between game and reality with ease.

Review:
I absolutely adored this book and didn’t want it to end. The writing is incredibly clever, flowing seamlessly between the real world and the campaign scenes - a balance I’ve rarely seen done so naturally. That fluid transition made it a fun, easy, and truly enjoyable read.

Every character had a meaningful place in the story. Nothing felt rushed or overlooked, and that level of care made the entire ensemble feel real and important.

The romance? Absolutely stunning. Noah and Sadie had undeniable chemistry - from woodland treks to that deliciously steamy camping scene, every moment was hot, spicy, and grounded in emotional connection. (And let’s not forget Jaylie and Loren - a secondary pairing that’s every bit as compelling.) Honestly, who doesn’t want a Noah in their life?

My only wish? A visual of the mural in the Alchemist. Though perhaps it’s more powerful left to the imagination...

Roll For Initiative.

A great read, an opposites attract romance. Sadie is a planner and Noah is more of a wanderer, they have a summer together then what happen? A great read.

This book felt like a warm hug.
It is light, refreshing and comforting - nothing too dramatic or tense outside of the D&D campaign, just a sweet love story intertwined with a story of burnout, healing and self rediscovery. It felt cosy and welcoming and I'd love to revisit this group again.

I'll admit I was a little apprehensive about the D&D campaign aspect going in - not sure how it could be integrated, or if it would overwhelm the story. It is put across as a story within a story which felt totally smooth, like an extra layer without being technical and I think entirely accessible for someone who's never played the game themselves. So if you're worried about that, don't be!

I loved experiencing Sadie's journey - it felt authentic and quietly powerful. Absolutely someone you root for, not only in the romance but in life and following her as she reconnected with simple joys and her own creativity was wonderful.

Perfect read for anyone who likes a little nerdy charm, character arcs, and genuine, cute romance. I'd recommend it wholeheartedly to D&D fans, the D&D-curious, but also to anyone who needs a gentle reminder to slow down and reconnect with yourself.

Thank you Quercus Books and Lenora Woods for this ARC <3

This was a delight! I was very much on board for Sadie and Noah's budding relationship, and I was very pleased to not be seeing the miscommunication trope! They had a very mature dynamic which was refreshing, and I thoroughly enjoyed the D&D interludes!

Roll for Romance is a swoony romance featuring a character recovering from corporate burnout—but make it fun and magical.

After unexpectedly losing her marketing job, main character Sadie moves in with her best friend for the summer who ropes her into playing Dungeons and Dragons for the first time. Through the game, she makes new friends, rediscovers her passions after dedicating much of her life to her career, and also falls in love with the charming bard (I loved attentive, cinnamon roll-y Noah!!).

Going into the book, I wasn’t sure how much I could take away from it as someone who’s never played D & D before, but I need not have worried. I enjoyed the book just as much, and the switches between the real-life story and the D & D game play gave the book a sprinkling of adventure and fantasy.

I loved seeing Sadie and Noah slowly flirt their way out of the game and into a slow-burn real life love story. But seeing Sadie come out of her shell beyond the love story was so rewarding, too. A true celebration of play and growth and putting yourself out there, no matter at which point in life you are.

I really didn't enjoy reading this book. And stop reading it at 23%.

I normally like geeky heros. But I couldn't get into this book. I have never played d&d so I couldn't understand what was happening. I am also ND and struggled to process what was happening between the real and game world. And who was who. I didn't feel the chemistry.

It clearly wasn't a book for me. As much as I try not to be negative.

"We can't control the wind, but we can always adjust the sails." - Liam


Sadie's down on her luck. After losing her job in New York she goes to stay with her best friend in Texas with her tail tucked between her legs. Sadie falls into depression and going through the motions. Having no clue what she should do with her life or what path to take. Until Liam announces she will be playing in his campaign! Enticing her with the idea of creating someone different from herself.


Sadie becomes Jaylie within Liam's game. Jaylie is confident, knows what she wants, and is a cleric blessed by the Goddess of Luck! Jaylie isn't alone in this adventure as both her and Sadie meet new and wonderful characters. This D&D campaign may be just what Sadie needs and more! New friendships are forming, laughs, great memories, and possibly romance! Sadie can't help but be drawn to the lumber-snack who seems to be wanting to roll for romance with her! In and out of game?!


"You just run the game?" - Sadie

"Right. I'll be the Dungeon Master." - Liam

"Sounds kinky." - Sadie (I knew I'd love her from this point forward!)


I was excited to read this because of the D&D theme! I still really want to be a part of a campaign someday and this read doesn't help that want! I laughed a lot and loved how the characters came together. Alongside the blossoming romance there was also friendships. I love how Lenora broke the cliche mold with the love interest being the one the FMC moves in with/childhood friend. Liam loves Sadie but in a sisterly way/best friend because he's gay. Liam supports Sadie and always has his doors open to her with no conditions or strings attached. Well, maybe one condition. . . she has to join his campaign!


I loved getting to meet all the players and finding out who they designed for the campaign. Jules being the opposite of herself within game had me laughing! I enjoyed the transition from real life into the campaign and the MCs turning into their players. Storytelling within a story! I love Critical Role and several times I felt like I was watching one of Matt's games play out. I respected Liam as a DM and how he treated everyone fairly. Keeping his DM secrets and plots under lock and key even from Sadie. The cliffhangers he dropped when the session was up! He even had someone leave the table at one point because of something that occurred within the narrative!


"Noah, you look like you could casually pull a tree out of the ground." - Sadie


I enjoyed the sweet, fluffy romance that was building from the moment Sadie and Noah met. It was cute and I found it interesting how both of them were running from something. Neither ready to admit the honest truth to themselves or out loud. I could relate to both of them in different ways. Their banter was funny, and I loved the comments made when they biked out to a forest. They matched one another's energy and goofiness. I did feel like Noah was a little flippant and was worried how things would end. But understanding him more and seeing how he handled final scenes helped clear that doubt up.


This read does have language throughout. Sadie does go through depression and just being a zombie going through the motions of living. That does change! Very brief moment of an old man making homophobic comments about a bookstore display. It gets shut down quickly and respectfully. Feelings of doubt and self-doubt voice going rampant. Mentally spiraling and needing to breath. Things stay lighthearted but there are some moments.


"If you do decide to pursue romance, you have my blessing. Roll with advantage, Sadie." - Liam


The romance is instant attraction and interest but it's a slow burn. They finally kiss at the sixty-ish percent mark in the read! Fluffy, cute romance with some MF action. Though the two keep getting interrupted in inopportune moments for a while by someone or something after they finally agree to try this! Single POV through Sadie's eyes and understanding her hesitance and frustration.


For me personally, I felt like some of the paragraphs were lengthy and some scene building was wordy. This is just my honest opinion! There were some slow moments with day-to-day life activity that could have been left out. I wanted more time with the other players and the bonds that were forming! Loved the girls date night! Liam was my favorite character, and I would be so down to join one of his campaigns! Then try and see if I could lockpick information out of him when he states the session is over! We get a great HEA!


This was a fun debut novel to read! Enjoy the D&D campaign within a story, newbie D&D players, fun romance, and wonderful moments with new and old friends! Don't forget to give the author some stars!


Thank you, NetGalley!


shutupandbookup.com

I love romance and I love D&D so when I saw the two combined in a book I was hooked.

The writing style and shifts were clever and I enjoyed the general storyline. It was easy enough to read and the characters were quite likable. That being said I did struggle at times between the jumps from real world to game world. They came on quite suddenly and sometimes felt like the real world portion of the story wasn't finished yet, like the conversation wasn't over yet.

I still enjoyed the theme of the book and getting to see D&D brought into the realm of romance.