UNAPOLOGETIC LOVE STORY

Book Cover

In London, Tom Branimir’s reputation as a journalist precedes him. Over the years, he’s increasingly devoted his career to writing exposés about fraudsters who push bogus health remedies and scam their followers. His cynical outlook and ruthless coverage have even earned him the nickname “King of Cancel Culture.” So he’s not expecting to find inspiration for his next investigative piece in someone who’s completely genuine. Raina Lewis has become a rising star courtesy of her smash-hit podcast, The Disability Track, using her lived experience as an autistic woman to shine a spotlight on neurodivergence. Not only has she made it her mission to correct some of the biggest misconceptions about the condition, but she also wants her podcast to make women like her feel seen. When Tom first notices Raina at a party they’ve both been dragged to, he immediately decides that she’s the most incredible woman he’s ever met, but she’s understandably skeptical about his intentions. To save face after a disastrous first conversation, Tom offers to make Raina the subject of his next profile, and she reluctantly agrees so long as it isn’t an attempt to smear her name. The truth is that Tom has no real plan to write about Raina; he just wants to spend enough time with her to convince her that his feelings are genuine. McNicoll’s adult debut is effervescently funny and wonderfully sincere, with perfectly fizzy banter between its leads and a throughline of clear lived experience that makes Raina’s journey both compelling and illuminating. Tom’s dedication to winning her over is immensely charming, while Raina’s sparkling personality will leave you rooting for her to find the love story she’s always believed is out of reach.