What is worse than watching your ex go on Love Island? Having to ghostwrite his new memoir once he leaves the villa… Timely released just in time for Valentine’s Day, The Re-Write is British-Nigerian author Lizzie Damilola Blackburn’s second book, following the success of her 2022 debut Yinka, Where is Your Huzband?

We follow loveable narrator Temi as she grapples with the reality of her freshly ex-boyfriend, Wale, shooting to fame (or at least Instagram influencer-level stardom) as this season’s token heartbreaker on Love Villa. Things are naturally complicated further when she finds herself accepting the position of ghostwriting his new book. Forced together, with a deadline rapidly approaching, we wonder if Temi and Wales’ story is over, or perhaps just starting a new chapter?  

Despite being an easy read infused with humour, relatability and charm, The Re-Write is full of thoughtful inclusion of some very real issues including body image, racism and sexual assault. Blackburn also, interestingly, explores her own experience working in Carers UK through Wale, revealing a sensitive and passionate side to him Temi hasn’t seen before. This makes for a refreshingly unique twist on a classic romcom, and a great read for hopeless romantics.