The Friend Zone

“Jimenez’s dazzling debut is a brilliantly written romantic comedy that seamlessly toggles back and forth between scenes of laugh-out-loud, snarky wit and serious emotional issues without missing a beat, all the while delivering maximum reading satisfaction.”―Booklist, Starred Review

“Harnessing sass, heartfelt struggle, and unapologetic sexuality, Jimenez’s debut is as hysterical as it is tear-jerking…Jimenez manages to fulfill all expectations for a romantic comedy while refusing to sacrifice nuance. Biting wit and laugh-out-loud moments take priority, but the novel remains subtle in its sentimentality and sneaks up on the reader with unanticipated depth. Readers who have wrestled with infertility will find Kristen’s anxieties and sorrows deeply relatable.”―Publishers Weekly, Starred Review

“Jimenez tackles a myriad of issues in her debut and hits each one with depth and sensitivity. Kristen’s take-no-prisoners attitude is smart and sassy and perfectly balanced by Josh’s easygoing resourcefulness…An excellent debut that combines wit, humor, and emotional intensity.”―Kirkus

“This romcom novel will have you feeling the falling-in-love autumn vibes.”―Buzzfeed

“The Friend Zone is a deliciously hot, sweet debut full of banter I couldn’t get enough of. I loved all the characters, from Kristen and Josh, to the supporting cast, and even Stuntman Mike. This book is an absolute treat.”―L.J. Shen, USA Today bestselling author

“The Friend Zone gave me belly laughs, shook me up, and made me feel hopeful about love and the human strength of spirit. A romance for the ages!“―Tessa Bailey, New York Times bestselling author of Fix Her Up

“Your next favorite romantic comedy…The Friend Zone is that rare beach read with tons of heart that will make you laugh and cry in equal parts.”―PopSugar

“You can expect to laugh and cry during this one.”―Good Housekeeping

“The Friend Zone is heartbreaking, gut-wrenching, and emotional. Abby Jimenez wrote a difficult story line with sensitivity, heat, humor, banter, and unwavering friendship.”―Harlequin Junkie, Top Pick

“The Friend Zone is a beautiful tale of learning to accept the love you deserve and finding a path to self-acceptance along the way….a zippy, instantly recognizable voice and fresh, funny characters.”―Entertainment Weekly

“This new romance novel will have you both laughing and crying throughout its entirety.”―Women.com

“Zingy dialog, laugh-out-loud humor, and plenty of sass temper the heartbreak of infertility in this modern, well-grounded debut that is sure to satisfy.”―Library Journal

“The Friend Zone is a laugh-out-loud, wickedly clever book that sneaks up on you with a cathartic emotional payoff.”―Jenny Holiday, author of Three Little Words

“This novel doesn’t shy away from anything – it’s fiercely loving all the way to the HEA.”―NPR

“A debut novel that has it all-tears, sarcastic humor, romance and the heartbreaking issue of infertility.”―Greenville News

“I think I’ve found a new favorite contemporary romance novel with The Friend Zone. …This book made me laugh and cry, and it filled my heart with so many emotions. …I’ll be recommending this book to everyone.”―Bookish

Abby Jimenez is a Food Network winner and USA Today bestselling author. She founded Nadia Cakes out of her home kitchen back in 2007. The bakery has since gone on to win numerous Food Network competitions and has amassed an international cult following. Abby’s wry literary wit was spotlighted as the admin behind the hilarious viral comments on the now famous Nadia Cakes Vageode ® cake.

Abby loves a good romance, coffee, doglets, and not leaving the house.