Mhairi McFarlane has once again proven why she’s considered the reigning monarch of contemporary romantic fiction with Cover Story, her eleventh novel that brilliantly weaves journalism, undercover intrigue, and scorching romantic tension into an absolutely unputdownable read. Following the success of previous hits like You Had Me at Hello and If I Never Met You, McFarlane delivers what might be her most sophisticated and thrilling work yet.
Plot Overview: Fake Dating Meets Investigative Journalism
The story centers on Bel Macauley, an award-winning podcaster turned Investigations Editor at a Manchester newspaper outpost. When she’s paired with Connor Adams, a thirty-something finance-turned-journalism intern, sparks fly – but not the romantic kind. Initially, their relationship is a masterclass in workplace antagonism: Bel finds Connor patronizing and superior, while he views her as chaotic and unprofessional.
Everything changes when Bel catches wind of a major scandal involving Manchester’s beloved Mayor Glenn Bailey, who’s been sexually exploiting young women in his employ. When Connor accidentally stumbles into Bel’s undercover operation, she’s forced to introduce him as her boyfriend, setting off a chain of events that requires them to maintain this fictional relationship for weeks.
What begins as a necessity for the story becomes something far more complex as they navigate:
Amber Kendrick’s wine bar scene in Didsbury, where the Mayor conducts his affairs
High-stakes deception involving stolen iPads and Ring doorbell footage
Family weddings and media awards ceremonies where their fake relationship is tested
Real feelings that develop despite their mutual resistance
Character Development: From Antagonists to Soulmates
Mhairi McFarlane’s greatest strength lies in her character development, and Cover Story showcases this brilliantly. Bel emerges as a wonderfully flawed protagonist – ambitious, occasionally reckless, but driven by genuine desire for justice. Her past relationship trauma, particularly her devastating affair with married colleague Anthony, adds layers of vulnerability beneath her confident exterior.
Connor’s character arc is equally compelling. Initially presented as an uptight former finance bro, he gradually reveals himself as protective, principled, and surprisingly tender. His journey from bereaved dog owner dealing with depression to someone willing to risk everything for both justice and love feels authentic and earned.
The supporting cast sparkles with McFarlane’s trademark wit. Aaron Parry, their irreverent colleague, provides constant comic relief while harboring his own romantic subplot. The villains – from the predatory Mayor Bailey to Bel’s stalker ex Anthony – feel genuinely menacing without becoming cartoonish.
Writing Style: Sharp Wit Meets Emotional Depth
McFarlane’s prose continues to evolve, demonstrating increasing sophistication while maintaining her signature humor. Her dialogue crackles with authentic British wit:
“‘Ya suffering, darling?’ Aaron said, at the sight of Bel.”
The author masterfully balances laugh-out-loud moments with genuine emotional weight. Bel’s confrontation with her stalker ex-colleague Anthony showcases McFarlane’s ability to tackle serious subjects like harassment and gaslighting while maintaining the romantic comedy framework.
Her Manchester setting comes alive through vivid descriptions of everything from converted mill apartments in Ancoats to the atmospheric wine bars of Didsbury. The city becomes almost a character itself, providing the perfect backdrop for both professional intrigue and personal discovery.
Themes: Power, Truth, and Redemption
Beyond the romance, Cover Story by Mhairi McFarlane tackles weighty themes with impressive nuance. The #MeToo elements surrounding Mayor Bailey’s abuse of power feel urgent and relevant, never exploitative. McFarlane handles the victims’ stories, particularly young Erin’s experience, with sensitivity and respect.
The book also explores professional ethics in journalism, the cost of truth-telling, and the complexity of workplace relationships. Bel’s moral journey – from someone willing to bend rules for a story to understanding the human cost of her choices – provides satisfying character growth.
Romance: The Heart of the Matter
The fake dating trope gets fresh treatment here through McFarlane’s expert handling. Rather than relying on tired misunderstandings, she builds genuine obstacles between Bel and Connor. Their initial dislike feels authentic, making their gradual attraction all the more rewarding.
Key romantic moments include:
Their first kiss at Amber’s birthday party, performed for an audience but charged with unexpected electricity
The wedding sequence where Connor protects Bel from her vindictive ex-boyfriend Tim
The final revelation scene where both finally confess their feelings
The sexual tension builds beautifully throughout, with McFarlane demonstrating restraint that makes their eventual union feel earned rather than inevitable.
Areas for Improvement
While Cover Story by Mhairi McFarlane largely succeeds, it’s not without minor flaws. The pacing occasionally lags during some of the investigative sequences, and certain plot conveniences – particularly Amber’s last-minute change of heart – feel slightly forced.
Some readers might find the sheer number of obstacles keeping Bel and Connor apart somewhat excessive, though this reviewer found their slow burn utterly compelling. The resolution, while satisfying, arrives quite quickly after their mutual confession.
Comparisons and Context
Cover Story sits comfortably alongside Mhairi McFarlane’s best work, showing growth from earlier novels like Here’s Looking at You while maintaining the charm that made Don’t You Forget About Me such a success. Readers of Emily Henry’s Beach Read or Sally Thorne’s The Hating Game will find similar themes of professional rivals becoming lovers, though McFarlane’s journalistic setting provides fresh territory.
The book’s blend of romance and thriller elements recalls the best of romantic suspense, comparable to authors like Lisa Kleypas or Julia Quinn in their ability to balance humor, heat, and genuine stakes.
Final Verdict: A Must-Read Romance
Cover Story represents Mhairi McFarlane at her absolute peak – a confident, sophisticated novel that delivers everything readers expect from contemporary romance while tackling serious subjects with grace and intelligence. The book is a good read for its exceptional character development, crackling dialogue, and a romance that feels both inevitable and hard-won.
This is essential reading for romance fans, journalism enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates smart, funny writing that doesn’t sacrifice emotional depth for laughs. McFarlane has created something special here: a love story that’s also a thriller, a workplace comedy that’s also a meditation on power and justice, and above all, a thoroughly entertaining read that will keep you turning pages late into the night.