The Enemy
Sarah Adams’ The Enemy, the second book in the It Happened in Charleston series, is a delightful romantic comedy that delivers everything a rom-com lover could want: witty banter, sizzling chemistry, and a heartwarming journey from enemies to lovers. Published in 2020 with an expanded edition released in 2024, this novel follows June Broaden and Ryan Henderson, high school rivals reunited after twelve years for a mutual friend’s wedding. What unfolds is a laugh-out-loud, swoon-worthy story that balances humor, emotional depth, and a slow-burn romance with effortless charm.
A Plot That Sparkles with Energy
The story kicks off with June, a successful gourmet donut shop owner in Charleston, plotting to show her high school nemesis, Ryan, just how fabulous her life has become. Their feud, rooted in a war of wits and a near-kiss at graduation that left June humiliated, has simmered for over a decade. When Ryan returns as the best man for their friends’ wedding, June is ready to flaunt her success—until she discovers that Ryan is no longer the lanky teen she remembers but a gorgeous, Michelin-starred chef with a disarming smile. What begins as a plan for revenge quickly spirals into a battle of pranks, playful teasing, and undeniable attraction.
Adams masterfully blends the enemies-to-lovers trope with a second-chance romance vibe, creating a narrative that feels fresh and engaging. The pacing is spot-on, with each chapter building anticipation as June and Ryan navigate their past misunderstandings and present-day chemistry. The wedding backdrop adds a festive, communal feel, while the foodie elements—donuts and gourmet cuisine—make the story irresistibly mouthwatering. The expanded edition’s never-before-seen chapter adds extra depth, offering readers a satisfying glimpse into the characters’ future.
Characters You Can’t Help but Root For
June Broaden is a heroine who leaps off the page with her spunky, relatable personality. Her awkward moments, fierce independence, and vulnerability make her feel like a friend you’re cheering for. Adams skillfully portrays June’s journey from guarding her heart—scarred by past business failures and that fateful almost-kiss—to embracing love and risk. Her inner monologue is laugh-out-loud funny, filled with self-deprecating humor and sharp observations that make her instantly lovable.
Ryan Henderson, meanwhile, is the kind of book boyfriend who’ll leave you swooning. A blend of charm, patience, and quiet confidence, he’s the perfect foil to June’s fiery energy. Adams writes Ryan with nuance, revealing his own insecurities and his long-held feelings for June, which add emotional weight to their interactions. His pursuit of June is both playful and heartfelt, and his culinary prowess (those Michelin stars!) only adds to his appeal. Together, their chemistry is electric, with every prank and banter-filled exchange crackling with tension.
The supporting cast, including June’s quirky family and the lovey-dovey couple Stacy and Logan, enriches the story with warmth and humor. June’s mother and brother, in particular, steal scenes with their meddling and affectionate antics, grounding the romance in a vibrant community.
Writing That Shines
Adams’ writing is a standout feature of The Enemy. Her voice is warm, witty, and infused with personality, making every page a joy to read. The dual perspectives of June and Ryan allow readers to connect deeply with both characters, understanding their motivations and emotions. The dialogue is a highlight, packed with snarky one-liners and flirtatious repartee that had me giggling uncontrollably. Lines like “Ryan maple-glazed and covered in sprinkles” capture the book’s playful tone perfectly.
The novel’s closed-door romance approach is executed with finesse. While there’s no explicit content, Adams weaves in plenty of sizzle through passionate kissing scenes and palpable tension, proving that less can be more. The fade-to-black moments are so well-crafted that they feel steamy without crossing into explicit territory, making this a perfect read for those who prefer sweet but spicy romances.
Themes of Growth and Forgiveness
Beyond the laughs and romance, The Enemy offers heartfelt themes of personal growth, forgiveness, and overcoming fear. June’s arc, in particular, resonates as she confronts her insecurities about failure and learns to trust again. Her resilience in pursuing her passion for baking, despite past setbacks, is inspiring, and her journey to let go of her grudge against Ryan feels authentic and earned. Ryan’s own vulnerability—his fear of not being enough—adds depth to his character, making their reconciliation all the more rewarding.
The book also explores the thin line between love and hate, showing how strong emotions can mask deeper feelings. Adams handles this with care, ensuring that the transition from enemies to lovers feels organic rather than rushed. The story’s emphasis on communication and mutual respect sets a positive example for romantic relationships, adding substance to the fluff.
Why You Should Read It
The Enemy is a feel-good escape that leaves you smiling long after the final page. Its blend of humor, heart, and heat makes it a standout in the rom-com genre, and Sarah Adams’ storytelling prowess cements her as a must-read author. Whether you’re a fan of enemies-to-lovers tropes, foodie romances, or simply a well-crafted love story, this book delivers on all fronts. It’s the kind of novel you’ll want to binge in one sitting, then immediately reread to savor every delicious moment.
For fans of authors like Emily Henry or Tessa Bailey, The Enemy offers a similar mix of humor and heart but with a uniquely Southern charm. It’s a testament to Adams’ skill that she can make a low-steam romance feel so electrifying, and her ability to craft relatable, lovable characters ensures that June and Ryan will stay with you long after you close the book.
Final Verdict: A Must-Read Rom-Com Gem
In short, The Enemy is a triumph of romantic comedy that hits all the right notes. It’s funny, heartfelt, and utterly addictive, with characters who feel like old friends and a romance that’ll make your heart race. Sarah Adams has crafted a story that’s as sweet as June’s gourmet donuts and as satisfying as a perfectly executed prank. Do yourself a favor and dive into this delightful read—you won’t be disappointed.
You can buy The Enemy by Sarah Adams with my Amazon Affiliate link: https://amzn.to/4drj4BE
A Plot That Sparkles with Energy
The story kicks off with June, a successful gourmet donut shop owner in Charleston, plotting to show her high school nemesis, Ryan, just how fabulous her life has become. Their feud, rooted in a war of wits and a near-kiss at graduation that left June humiliated, has simmered for over a decade. When Ryan returns as the best man for their friends’ wedding, June is ready to flaunt her success—until she discovers that Ryan is no longer the lanky teen she remembers but a gorgeous, Michelin-starred chef with a disarming smile. What begins as a plan for revenge quickly spirals into a battle of pranks, playful teasing, and undeniable attraction.
Adams masterfully blends the enemies-to-lovers trope with a second-chance romance vibe, creating a narrative that feels fresh and engaging. The pacing is spot-on, with each chapter building anticipation as June and Ryan navigate their past misunderstandings and present-day chemistry. The wedding backdrop adds a festive, communal feel, while the foodie elements—donuts and gourmet cuisine—make the story irresistibly mouthwatering. The expanded edition’s never-before-seen chapter adds extra depth, offering readers a satisfying glimpse into the characters’ future.
Characters You Can’t Help but Root For
June Broaden is a heroine who leaps off the page with her spunky, relatable personality. Her awkward moments, fierce independence, and vulnerability make her feel like a friend you’re cheering for. Adams skillfully portrays June’s journey from guarding her heart—scarred by past business failures and that fateful almost-kiss—to embracing love and risk. Her inner monologue is laugh-out-loud funny, filled with self-deprecating humor and sharp observations that make her instantly lovable.
Ryan Henderson, meanwhile, is the kind of book boyfriend who’ll leave you swooning. A blend of charm, patience, and quiet confidence, he’s the perfect foil to June’s fiery energy. Adams writes Ryan with nuance, revealing his own insecurities and his long-held feelings for June, which add emotional weight to their interactions. His pursuit of June is both playful and heartfelt, and his culinary prowess (those Michelin stars!) only adds to his appeal. Together, their chemistry is electric, with every prank and banter-filled exchange crackling with tension.
The supporting cast, including June’s quirky family and the lovey-dovey couple Stacy and Logan, enriches the story with warmth and humor. June’s mother and brother, in particular, steal scenes with their meddling and affectionate antics, grounding the romance in a vibrant community.
Writing That Shines
Adams’ writing is a standout feature of The Enemy. Her voice is warm, witty, and infused with personality, making every page a joy to read. The dual perspectives of June and Ryan allow readers to connect deeply with both characters, understanding their motivations and emotions. The dialogue is a highlight, packed with snarky one-liners and flirtatious repartee that had me giggling uncontrollably. Lines like “Ryan maple-glazed and covered in sprinkles” capture the book’s playful tone perfectly.
The novel’s closed-door romance approach is executed with finesse. While there’s no explicit content, Adams weaves in plenty of sizzle through passionate kissing scenes and palpable tension, proving that less can be more. The fade-to-black moments are so well-crafted that they feel steamy without crossing into explicit territory, making this a perfect read for those who prefer sweet but spicy romances.
Themes of Growth and Forgiveness
Beyond the laughs and romance, The Enemy offers heartfelt themes of personal growth, forgiveness, and overcoming fear. June’s arc, in particular, resonates as she confronts her insecurities about failure and learns to trust again. Her resilience in pursuing her passion for baking, despite past setbacks, is inspiring, and her journey to let go of her grudge against Ryan feels authentic and earned. Ryan’s own vulnerability—his fear of not being enough—adds depth to his character, making their reconciliation all the more rewarding.
The book also explores the thin line between love and hate, showing how strong emotions can mask deeper feelings. Adams handles this with care, ensuring that the transition from enemies to lovers feels organic rather than rushed. The story’s emphasis on communication and mutual respect sets a positive example for romantic relationships, adding substance to the fluff.
Why You Should Read It
The Enemy is a feel-good escape that leaves you smiling long after the final page. Its blend of humor, heart, and heat makes it a standout in the rom-com genre, and Sarah Adams’ storytelling prowess cements her as a must-read author. Whether you’re a fan of enemies-to-lovers tropes, foodie romances, or simply a well-crafted love story, this book delivers on all fronts. It’s the kind of novel you’ll want to binge in one sitting, then immediately reread to savor every delicious moment.
For fans of authors like Emily Henry or Tessa Bailey, The Enemy offers a similar mix of humor and heart but with a uniquely Southern charm. It’s a testament to Adams’ skill that she can make a low-steam romance feel so electrifying, and her ability to craft relatable, lovable characters ensures that June and Ryan will stay with you long after you close the book.
Final Verdict: A Must-Read Rom-Com Gem
In short, The Enemy is a triumph of romantic comedy that hits all the right notes. It’s funny, heartfelt, and utterly addictive, with characters who feel like old friends and a romance that’ll make your heart race. Sarah Adams has crafted a story that’s as sweet as June’s gourmet donuts and as satisfying as a perfectly executed prank. Do yourself a favor and dive into this delightful read—you won’t be disappointed.
You can buy The Enemy by Sarah Adams with my Amazon Affiliate link: https://amzn.to/4drj4BE
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