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Overview:
Practice Makes Perfect by Sarah Adams is a heartwarming and hilariously charming small-town romance that explores self-worth, intimacy fears, and the healing power of love. When Annie Walker, a shy florist, enlists bad-boy bodyguard Will Griffin to help her practice dating, they strike a deal that’s all business—until sparks start flying. Set in the cozy town of Rome, Kentucky, the novel blends fake dating tropes, tender emotional beats, and classic rom-com fun, making it an irresistible read for fans of slow-burn romances with depth and sass.
Book Structure:
Point of View: Dual first-person narration alternating between Annie and Will
Pacing & Format: Linear progression with diary-style inner monologues and banter-heavy dialogue
Tone: Warm, funny, and uplifting with vulnerable emotional undercurrents
Summary:
Annie’s Journey to Confidence
Annie Walker is the definition of sweet and shy. While running the town’s flower shop, she dreams of finding “the one” but worries she’s too inexperienced to attract the right guy. Tired of being the quiet, overlooked Walker sibling, she hatches a bold plan to become more “dateable.”
Lesson: Love begins when we accept ourselves first—awkwardness and all.
Will’s Hidden Soft Side
Will Griffin, a tattooed, flirty security specialist with a troubled past, agrees to help Annie get comfortable with physical and emotional intimacy. Though he seems like the opposite of everything Annie wants, his gentle coaching and protective nature reveal his own longing for connection.
Example: Will’s evolving respect for Annie’s pace and personality shows emotional maturity beneath his tough exterior.
Fake Dating, Real Feelings
What starts as a “practice” relationship slowly transforms as real emotions enter the equation. From mock dates to surprise kisses, their connection deepens in organic and heart-tugging ways.
Example: The chemistry during their staged dates is electric, especially the iconic scene where a “practice kiss” turns into something undeniably real.
Small-Town Shenanigans & Big-Hearted Family
The tight-knit Rome community adds both warmth and chaos—from nosy siblings to matchmaking locals. Annie’s siblings (from When in Rome) and the extended Walker family provide comic relief and emotional grounding.
Example: The town’s quirky residents create a rich backdrop that supports Annie’s growth journey.
Themes and Analysis:
Self-Worth vs. People-Pleasing
Annie’s arc beautifully explores the tension between being liked and being authentic. Her transformation into someone who knows her own value is both empowering and relatable.
Healing Through Affection
Will’s emotional scars from past trauma are slowly mended through his bond with Annie. Their relationship demonstrates that love isn’t about fixing someone—but creating safe space to be vulnerable.
The Power of Safe, Consensual Romance
Adams handles consent, emotional readiness, and intimacy with great care—delivering a romance that’s sexy without being overwhelming.
Writing Style:
Sarah Adams’ prose sparkles with wit, warmth, and emotional sincerity. Her dialogue is playful yet packed with meaning, and she masterfully blends comedic timing with poignant inner growth. The pacing flows effortlessly, balancing romantic tension with character evolution. Her small-town settings feel immersive, comforting, and alive.
Cultural Impact:
Practice Makes Perfect resonates strongly in the era of soft heroes, emotional literacy, and mindful romance. It’s part of a larger movement toward consent-aware storytelling and low-angst, high-reward love stories. Frequently trending on #BookTok and Bookstagram, it has earned a loyal following for its blend of swoony vibes and relatable character arcs.
Strengths:
- Wholesome yet sexy romance with strong emotional payoff
- Likable, layered characters with natural chemistry
- Excellent use of fake dating and forced proximity tropes
- Rich, cozy small-town worldbuilding
Criticism:
- Predictable plot beats for seasoned romance readers
- Some readers may find the pacing slow at the start
- Side characters could have been given more story time
Conclusion:
Practice Makes Perfect by Sarah Adams is a delightful, SEO-friendly gem for fans of sweet yet spicy romances that emphasize mutual respect, emotional healing, and irresistible charm. A standout for lovers of fake dating tropes, cinnamon-roll heroes, and introspective heroines, this book is perfect for readers of Abby Jimenez, Tessa Bailey, and Katherine Center.
