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Texts from My Exes
Some people scrapbook.
I screenshot my exes’ texts.
What started as me venting my dating disasters online (creative outlet, don’t judge) has turned into a blog with actual followers—and the only thing keeping me in my dirt-cheap apartment. My grandmother-slash-landlord insists I “prove my creativity” to stay, so the blog lives on.
Except now my readers want a happy ending. With an ex.
Problem? None of my exes qualify.
So…I invent one. The perfect guy. The one that got away.
Rule #1: Never roast your exes online if they know how to read.
Rule #2: Definitely don’t make up a fake ex-boyfriend just to keep your rent low.
Rule #3: Don't—under any circumstances—let your best friend discover the lie.
Because now he’s volunteered to become my fake perfect ex. And the more we fake it, the more I can’t tell if my readers are the only ones falling for the story.
Turns out, the biggest plot twist of all?
I might have been in love with him the whole time.
I screenshot my exes’ texts.
What started as me venting my dating disasters online (creative outlet, don’t judge) has turned into a blog with actual followers—and the only thing keeping me in my dirt-cheap apartment. My grandmother-slash-landlord insists I “prove my creativity” to stay, so the blog lives on.
Except now my readers want a happy ending. With an ex.
Problem? None of my exes qualify.
So…I invent one. The perfect guy. The one that got away.
Rule #1: Never roast your exes online if they know how to read.
Rule #2: Definitely don’t make up a fake ex-boyfriend just to keep your rent low.
Rule #3: Don't—under any circumstances—let your best friend discover the lie.
Because now he’s volunteered to become my fake perfect ex. And the more we fake it, the more I can’t tell if my readers are the only ones falling for the story.
Turns out, the biggest plot twist of all?
I might have been in love with him the whole time.
225 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 16, 2025
198 people are currently reading
191 people want to read
About the author
Rachel Van Dyken
183 books18.7k followersRachel Van Dyken is the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today Bestselling author of mafia and contemporary romances.
Hey guys I'm rarely on Goodreads, if you need to reach me feel free to email!
EMAIL ME: rachelvandykenauthor@gmail.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Rachel-...
Hey guys I'm rarely on Goodreads, if you need to reach me feel free to email!
EMAIL ME: rachelvandykenauthor@gmail.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Rachel-...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews
September 25, 2025
DNF at 13%. For the life of me I couldn’t figure out what the author was trying to make happen. Not a single description of Harper’s looks in 5 chapters, but Ezra’s were mentioned on page 2. Emotional immaturity for both Harper and Ezra in spades. Neither had a personality and were simply cardboard cutouts with potential. I feel like it was a money grab for a catchy new age “best friends turned to lovers” romance. Pass. Hard pass. A waste of my time.
September 30, 2025
This was the fun, light-hearted, read I needed!
Friends to lovers romance is one of my all time favorite tropes. Harper and Ezra have a super strong friendship and when they finally both realize what is right in front of them was my favorite part! The antics that happen in this story had me giggling, smiling, and even laughing out loud. It is such an enjoyable read!
This story also has one of my favorite supporting characters, a sassy grandma! I couldn’t stop reading
Grateful to have received a complimentary ARC copy to honestly review.
Friends to lovers romance is one of my all time favorite tropes. Harper and Ezra have a super strong friendship and when they finally both realize what is right in front of them was my favorite part! The antics that happen in this story had me giggling, smiling, and even laughing out loud. It is such an enjoyable read!
This story also has one of my favorite supporting characters, a sassy grandma! I couldn’t stop reading
Grateful to have received a complimentary ARC copy to honestly review.
September 21, 2025
Texts From My Exes is a fast paced light read from Rachel Van Dyken, and is completely different than the mafia books I usually read from her. If you want a humorous romcom that takes place in the digital age of online dating and all the pitfalls that entails, then you’ve found the right book.
We have all gotten terrible or cringeworthy texts from exes which instantly makes this book relatable even if the premise of trying to do well in the influencer space isn’t something you connect with. The plot point of the grandmother wanting the FMC Harper to go viral as a creative in order to keep her apartment was a little too far fetched for me, but I understand the need to make the stakes higher for Harper rather than it just being a personal goal.
All said, Texts From My Exes is a fast, fun read that is the perfect light palate cleanser between heavier books (like Van Dyken’s Eagle Elite series!)
I received an ARC copy courtesy of the author and Wildfire Marketing Solutions, however my review is completely my own unbiased personal opinion, left of my own volition.
We have all gotten terrible or cringeworthy texts from exes which instantly makes this book relatable even if the premise of trying to do well in the influencer space isn’t something you connect with. The plot point of the grandmother wanting the FMC Harper to go viral as a creative in order to keep her apartment was a little too far fetched for me, but I understand the need to make the stakes higher for Harper rather than it just being a personal goal.
All said, Texts From My Exes is a fast, fun read that is the perfect light palate cleanser between heavier books (like Van Dyken’s Eagle Elite series!)
I received an ARC copy courtesy of the author and Wildfire Marketing Solutions, however my review is completely my own unbiased personal opinion, left of my own volition.
September 18, 2025
Chaos lives in these pages!!!!!
I went from wanting to nut punch Cash to wanting to sprint from the terrible exes that never should have made the list but prove why they are exes.
TEXTS FROM MY EXES is going to leave you smiling like a loon. But first, oh the frustration, the mini meltdowns (of the reader) and the genuine urge to shake Harper until she gets it will be strong. Ezra, my dear sweet boy, waketh the fu@cketh up! 🤣🤣🤣
Do not use the n word around him, he's sensitive to any use. Being called a nerd is triggering; do not use the term. You can call him logical. Throw in some spreadsheet talk and a wide range of fandoms and you may as well be giving him bedroom eyes. However, our boy genius, only has eyes for one. She just needs to look to see it.
This comedy of errors, crazy situation, and fun family friendly side cast are going to steal a piece of your heart. The rest, that's up to Ezra and Harper to take.
While you decide if they're worth it, I say engage! (My nerdtastic Star Trek tip of my imaginary hat!)
I went from wanting to nut punch Cash to wanting to sprint from the terrible exes that never should have made the list but prove why they are exes.
TEXTS FROM MY EXES is going to leave you smiling like a loon. But first, oh the frustration, the mini meltdowns (of the reader) and the genuine urge to shake Harper until she gets it will be strong. Ezra, my dear sweet boy, waketh the fu@cketh up! 🤣🤣🤣
Do not use the n word around him, he's sensitive to any use. Being called a nerd is triggering; do not use the term. You can call him logical. Throw in some spreadsheet talk and a wide range of fandoms and you may as well be giving him bedroom eyes. However, our boy genius, only has eyes for one. She just needs to look to see it.
This comedy of errors, crazy situation, and fun family friendly side cast are going to steal a piece of your heart. The rest, that's up to Ezra and Harper to take.
While you decide if they're worth it, I say engage! (My nerdtastic Star Trek tip of my imaginary hat!)
November 16, 2025
I was completely baffled by the storyline and main characters. The book was overwhelming, with a plethora of one liners, social media talk, overuse of the word 'like'. There were strange time line gaps between some scenes and I had to read over sections to work them out.
I love Rachel's mafia books, but this story is a hard pass for me. I'm not into social media the way the characters are, so avid followers of tic tok, gen z, etc, will understand this story way better than me.
DNF. Sorry. Two stars, because Rachel is usually a go to author for me.
I love Rachel's mafia books, but this story is a hard pass for me. I'm not into social media the way the characters are, so avid followers of tic tok, gen z, etc, will understand this story way better than me.
DNF. Sorry. Two stars, because Rachel is usually a go to author for me.
September 9, 2025
Texts from my Exes is a story filled with fun characters and banter!
Its an easy to read journey where Harper uploads her dates with her exes! They are outlandish ones too! Oh boy!
But its her best friend Ezra who takes the cake! Their friendship is what I liked most! Easy conversation albeit a bit out there but when you know someone so well, you intrinsically know all their quirks, right?
A fun story that will have your head spinning with ridiculousness and humour!
Its an easy to read journey where Harper uploads her dates with her exes! They are outlandish ones too! Oh boy!
But its her best friend Ezra who takes the cake! Their friendship is what I liked most! Easy conversation albeit a bit out there but when you know someone so well, you intrinsically know all their quirks, right?
A fun story that will have your head spinning with ridiculousness and humour!
September 8, 2025
Texts from my Exes is the romcom of the year! Seriously, the type of book where you're laughing so hard you're snorting in-between trying to breathe. And some of the topics on hand have me scratching my head but also wanting to do a deep dive into learning about dolphins 🤣. 5 stars, dive in and see what all the madness is about.
September 23, 2025
I can't put my finger on why I didn't like this one. I liked how it was a man getting the She's All That Treatment. I just found both of the characters to be very cardboard. I couldn't get invested in the story at all. I found a few typos and if my oblivious self found them then they were glaring. These two also didn't know a lot about each other to be best friends.
September 29, 2025
This was a cute and funny friends to lovers story.
I loved how easy this was to read. Sometimes simple, yet layered, and enjoyable is the perfect read.
There's alot more to the actual story but I personally feel that's another layer that made this story stand out. Read the book to see what I'm talking.
I loved how easy this was to read. Sometimes simple, yet layered, and enjoyable is the perfect read.
There's alot more to the actual story but I personally feel that's another layer that made this story stand out. Read the book to see what I'm talking.
Did Not Finish
October 1, 2025
(I received an ARC for this book)
DNFed around 50% plus some skimming through the end- no star rating
I love Rachel's books, so I'm am super bummed that this book just wasn’t for me!
Harper is a teacher, out for revenge on an ex (I think?). Her and her best friend (their friendship/connection concerned me) create a “dating show” on tiktok after she goes viral because of her dating life. I think a lawyer should have been involved, but there’s family drama and Harper needed to figure something else out. Pretty sure I didn’t like this because of the heavy focus on internet presence. That’s not something I enjoy in real life, so there was no enjoyment reading about it. I find no pleasure in following internet personalities or reality tv, and that’s what I felt like I was reading. It’s the kind of content I swipe past. But what really made me DNF was the way Harper treated her “best friend”. She treated him terribly, not to mention allowed the guys she brought home to make fun of him? Apparently she was afraid to lose him, probably loved him, but I didn’t feel like she respected him. And considering how infatuated he is with her, he deserves better! I would have LOVED to actually see who Harper is offline. I think there was a romcom in there somewhere…hurts my heart that I just couldn’t find it.
DNFed around 50% plus some skimming through the end- no star rating
I love Rachel's books, so I'm am super bummed that this book just wasn’t for me!
Harper is a teacher, out for revenge on an ex (I think?). Her and her best friend (their friendship/connection concerned me) create a “dating show” on tiktok after she goes viral because of her dating life. I think a lawyer should have been involved, but there’s family drama and Harper needed to figure something else out. Pretty sure I didn’t like this because of the heavy focus on internet presence. That’s not something I enjoy in real life, so there was no enjoyment reading about it. I find no pleasure in following internet personalities or reality tv, and that’s what I felt like I was reading. It’s the kind of content I swipe past. But what really made me DNF was the way Harper treated her “best friend”. She treated him terribly, not to mention allowed the guys she brought home to make fun of him? Apparently she was afraid to lose him, probably loved him, but I didn’t feel like she respected him. And considering how infatuated he is with her, he deserves better! I would have LOVED to actually see who Harper is offline. I think there was a romcom in there somewhere…hurts my heart that I just couldn’t find it.
October 8, 2025
Cute premise but I didn't like the execution. Harper and Ezra are BFFs since college. She's friend zoned him hard and he is in love with her hard core. She doesn't even notice him and actually totally takes him for granted that he's just going to always be there and do everything for her.
I just couldn't connect with Harper. I didnt really like her dialog or style of talking/thinking. Then there was a goofy kind of twist that I wasn't a fan of.
This was a DNF at 45% for me 🫤
(This is the second time I've been burned by a fb tease ad 😖)
I just couldn't connect with Harper. I didnt really like her dialog or style of talking/thinking. Then there was a goofy kind of twist that I wasn't a fan of.
This was a DNF at 45% for me 🫤
(This is the second time I've been burned by a fb tease ad 😖)
October 2, 2025
I’ve never had any trouble finish a book from RVD, until this one. Normally I have to force myself to put her books down, and in this case I had to force myself to finish.
This one felt like she couldn’t decide which type of book this would be. There were a lot of errors (typos or the wrong word in a place) which normally doesn’t happen in her books. She’s still an auto buy for me.
This one felt like she couldn’t decide which type of book this would be. There were a lot of errors (typos or the wrong word in a place) which normally doesn’t happen in her books. She’s still an auto buy for me.
September 20, 2025
Ezra is such a great book boyfriend!
Cute, fun story once you get into it. I don’t think of myself as that old and know most of modern lingo. But, I was lost at the start of this book. I was wondering if someone else wrote it, which sucked because I was so excited for a new non-mafia story from Rachel. (Don’t hate me. I just can’t do the mafia books.)
Ezra’s big reveal was important but not the huge “secret” it seemed. The strange texts about sponsors were never developed. Some of this book just didn’t flow or make sense.
Cute, fun story once you get into it. I don’t think of myself as that old and know most of modern lingo. But, I was lost at the start of this book. I was wondering if someone else wrote it, which sucked because I was so excited for a new non-mafia story from Rachel. (Don’t hate me. I just can’t do the mafia books.)
Ezra’s big reveal was important but not the huge “secret” it seemed. The strange texts about sponsors were never developed. Some of this book just didn’t flow or make sense.
September 15, 2025
Texts From My Exes is a standalone romantic comedy set in today's social media world.
Harper is an only child. Her father retired from a technology position, and now is allergic to anything technology related. Literally. She is an elementary school teacher who has been blogging and is starting to make a little money doing it. She is on a quest to prove she can go viral. At stake is her perfect apartment.
Ezra is a computer geek. He jokes about his spreadsheets being his girlfriends. He spends almost all of his time with Harper, since they are best friends since they met in college. But he is keeping secrets from her and everyone else.
When Grandma Blue challenges Harper to prove she can go viral or lose her apartment, Harper comes up with a scheme to post texts from her exes on social media and let her followers vote for who she should give a second chance to. But none of her choices are good choices. So she makes up an ex.
Ezra, being her best friend, goes through and ranks her exes based on their texts. Then he helps her prepare for her first date. Because, as we all know, she will record the date and put it up on social media for her followers. She needs them to know who they are voting for.
But when it comes time for Harper's date with her pretend ex, she is shocked beyond belief at who shows up.
To top off matters, after posting this date on social media, she will go viral. But is it for the right reasons?
Sadly, Ezra's past will also come up to bite them both in the booty. He has kept his secrets for as long as he can. Now he must pay the piper. And the piper wants a hefty price.
Will these two crash and burn? Will Ezra prove to Harper that not everything needs to be posted on social media? Will Harper lose her best friend in all of this?
Let me just start by saying that Grandma Blue is diabolical. I cannot wait to see her in more books.
I truly despise and hate that man that came out of nowhere from Ezra's past social media icon days. He is a complete and utter douche and needs to be put in his place.
Ezra's sister in law is another hoot. Lordy, she knows what needs to be done and she gets it done. To top it off, her absolute certainty of what the outcome will be is mind boggling. I do not know how she just knows, but she does.
Harper is an only child. Her father retired from a technology position, and now is allergic to anything technology related. Literally. She is an elementary school teacher who has been blogging and is starting to make a little money doing it. She is on a quest to prove she can go viral. At stake is her perfect apartment.
Ezra is a computer geek. He jokes about his spreadsheets being his girlfriends. He spends almost all of his time with Harper, since they are best friends since they met in college. But he is keeping secrets from her and everyone else.
When Grandma Blue challenges Harper to prove she can go viral or lose her apartment, Harper comes up with a scheme to post texts from her exes on social media and let her followers vote for who she should give a second chance to. But none of her choices are good choices. So she makes up an ex.
Ezra, being her best friend, goes through and ranks her exes based on their texts. Then he helps her prepare for her first date. Because, as we all know, she will record the date and put it up on social media for her followers. She needs them to know who they are voting for.
But when it comes time for Harper's date with her pretend ex, she is shocked beyond belief at who shows up.
To top off matters, after posting this date on social media, she will go viral. But is it for the right reasons?
Sadly, Ezra's past will also come up to bite them both in the booty. He has kept his secrets for as long as he can. Now he must pay the piper. And the piper wants a hefty price.
Will these two crash and burn? Will Ezra prove to Harper that not everything needs to be posted on social media? Will Harper lose her best friend in all of this?
Let me just start by saying that Grandma Blue is diabolical. I cannot wait to see her in more books.
I truly despise and hate that man that came out of nowhere from Ezra's past social media icon days. He is a complete and utter douche and needs to be put in his place.
Ezra's sister in law is another hoot. Lordy, she knows what needs to be done and she gets it done. To top it off, her absolute certainty of what the outcome will be is mind boggling. I do not know how she just knows, but she does.
October 1, 2025
Rachel Van Dyken never disappoints and this one was hilarious and kept you sucked in the entire time. I have to say that I loved we were getting both Ezra’s and Harper’s point of view. I knew from the first moment that Ezra has it bad for Harper but she drew a line in the sand for them a long time ago. He was always there and her one constant that she didn’t want to ruin it with what ifs. So she didn’t go there even though her body and heart betrayed her every chance it got. There was a lot going wrong in her life, so she tried to focus on anything and everything else but Ezra. Ezra had enough especially now that she has started this whole crazy re-dating her exes and see if there was one that got away. He needed her to see him for more that her best friend. He’s been in love with her for years and she didn’t know, or pretended not to see the signs.
Every touch, every look, every hug, every time she lay her head on his shoulder was torcher. She thought he didn’t like to be touched, oh was she so wrong. It just made it harder and harder for him to not lean in and kiss her, to throw her over his shoulder and say fuck it, tonight is the night. But he knew he has to tread lightly with her and her heart. She has been burned to many times and she has barricades up around her heart. But he knew how she felt about him, she was in love with him too. He just didn’t know how to tell her and for her to believe him. That she was it for him, that she was his forever and that he hasn’t been on one date, not because he’s gay but because the one girl that is meant for him is trying to save her heart from heart break, not knowing he loves her too.
He had decided a long time ago when the time was right he would come out of hiding for her. He had secrets and things he was running from, but he would give his life to save her, like she saved his all those years ago. But when was the best time? When was the moment he could do it and still make her believe there was no other motive? He needed all the help he can get to get he girl of his dreams.
Received this ARC with my honest review and opinion.
Every touch, every look, every hug, every time she lay her head on his shoulder was torcher. She thought he didn’t like to be touched, oh was she so wrong. It just made it harder and harder for him to not lean in and kiss her, to throw her over his shoulder and say fuck it, tonight is the night. But he knew he has to tread lightly with her and her heart. She has been burned to many times and she has barricades up around her heart. But he knew how she felt about him, she was in love with him too. He just didn’t know how to tell her and for her to believe him. That she was it for him, that she was his forever and that he hasn’t been on one date, not because he’s gay but because the one girl that is meant for him is trying to save her heart from heart break, not knowing he loves her too.
He had decided a long time ago when the time was right he would come out of hiding for her. He had secrets and things he was running from, but he would give his life to save her, like she saved his all those years ago. But when was the best time? When was the moment he could do it and still make her believe there was no other motive? He needed all the help he can get to get he girl of his dreams.
Received this ARC with my honest review and opinion.
September 17, 2025
Review:
📱Texts From My Exes📱
By Rachel Van Dyken
📱 Friends to Lovers
📱 RomCom
📱 Fake Dating
⭐ 5/5
Harper, a chaotic influencer with a conflicted heart
Ezra, a nerd with more to him than what meets the eye
Quote: “I’m not the one that got away. I’m the one that’s staying. If you’ll have me.”.
Harper, Ezra and a love story a long time in the making
This story will have you laugh your heart out and hope for a happily ever after.
Harper and Ezra have been best friends ever since they met in college. Somehow, they just clicked. The line has been drawn ever since: they were best friends. Nothing more. At least, that’s what Harper will keep telling herself.
While she goes on numerous chaotic dates, keeping her blog updated on them and the adventures she lives through, Ezra supports her through and through. Always at the sideline, hiding behind glasses, bucket hats and his beloved computer. But when Harper needs to prove herself and her blog, she begins to go on dates with some of her exes again to find ‘The One’. And when one of them is, well, nonexistent… Ezra jumps in to save the day and Harper.
I absolutely loved this book. From the plot, the twists and turns, to the characters, everything was so well written, I couldn’t put it down! Harper is fierce, chaotic while also being sensitive and honest. I liked how she stood her ground, but sometimes I just wanted her to get a grip and stop trying to deny what she felt. Ezra is an amazing guy, whose attitude and character had me smile all the time. His sense of humor but also the more serious sides of him were incredibly well written and I loved getting to know him! I would love to read more about this world and the other characters, too. I also loved the K-Pop references, and the characters' banter in general.
Truly a swoon-worthy, laugh-inducing story that will make you want to keep reading.
📱Texts From My Exes📱
By Rachel Van Dyken
📱 Friends to Lovers
📱 RomCom
📱 Fake Dating
⭐ 5/5
Harper, a chaotic influencer with a conflicted heart
Ezra, a nerd with more to him than what meets the eye
Quote: “I’m not the one that got away. I’m the one that’s staying. If you’ll have me.”.
Harper, Ezra and a love story a long time in the making
This story will have you laugh your heart out and hope for a happily ever after.
Harper and Ezra have been best friends ever since they met in college. Somehow, they just clicked. The line has been drawn ever since: they were best friends. Nothing more. At least, that’s what Harper will keep telling herself.
While she goes on numerous chaotic dates, keeping her blog updated on them and the adventures she lives through, Ezra supports her through and through. Always at the sideline, hiding behind glasses, bucket hats and his beloved computer. But when Harper needs to prove herself and her blog, she begins to go on dates with some of her exes again to find ‘The One’. And when one of them is, well, nonexistent… Ezra jumps in to save the day and Harper.
I absolutely loved this book. From the plot, the twists and turns, to the characters, everything was so well written, I couldn’t put it down! Harper is fierce, chaotic while also being sensitive and honest. I liked how she stood her ground, but sometimes I just wanted her to get a grip and stop trying to deny what she felt. Ezra is an amazing guy, whose attitude and character had me smile all the time. His sense of humor but also the more serious sides of him were incredibly well written and I loved getting to know him! I would love to read more about this world and the other characters, too. I also loved the K-Pop references, and the characters' banter in general.
Truly a swoon-worthy, laugh-inducing story that will make you want to keep reading.
September 16, 2025
3.75stars—TEXTS FROM MY EXES by Rachel Van Dyken is a stand alone, contemporary, adult romance story line focusing on social media influencer Harper Avery and tech genius Ezra ‘Vex’ Park.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Harper and Ezra) TEXTS FROM MY EXES focuses on the best friends to lovers relationship between influencer Harper Avery and tech genius Ezra Park. Harper Avery has been struggling with the dating apps, and with the help of her best friend, Ezra Park, our heroine records her dates and uploads the contents to her followers but Harper’s struggles are about to become real when Ezra offers himself as her ‘fake online boyfriend’, a person named Vex, who is the perfect date.Meanwhile, Ezra’s secret past is about to become online fodder, the demons demand restitution, and Harper is caught between the real world, and the life she records for her followers.
The world building follows the back and forth between our story line couple. Harper is oblivious to Ezra’s love and attraction, and thusly, our heroine is hoping to find the friendship and love with someone else.
The relationship between Ezra and Harper is a chaotic best friends to lovers but a perceived betrayal threatens a life-long friendship. Secrets and lies belies the truth of Ezra love for the woman who is desperate to find love and her own happily ever after. There are no $ex scenes, everything is implied.
The secondary and supporting characters are energetic. We are introduced to Harper’s dates, as well as Grandma Blue.
TEXTS FROM MY EXES is a story of family and friendships, secrets and lies, acceptance and love. The character driven premise is entertaining and slightly frenetic; the romance is limited but fated; the characters are desperate and charismatic.
copy supplied for review
Told from dual first person perspectives (Harper and Ezra) TEXTS FROM MY EXES focuses on the best friends to lovers relationship between influencer Harper Avery and tech genius Ezra Park. Harper Avery has been struggling with the dating apps, and with the help of her best friend, Ezra Park, our heroine records her dates and uploads the contents to her followers but Harper’s struggles are about to become real when Ezra offers himself as her ‘fake online boyfriend’, a person named Vex, who is the perfect date.Meanwhile, Ezra’s secret past is about to become online fodder, the demons demand restitution, and Harper is caught between the real world, and the life she records for her followers.
The world building follows the back and forth between our story line couple. Harper is oblivious to Ezra’s love and attraction, and thusly, our heroine is hoping to find the friendship and love with someone else.
The relationship between Ezra and Harper is a chaotic best friends to lovers but a perceived betrayal threatens a life-long friendship. Secrets and lies belies the truth of Ezra love for the woman who is desperate to find love and her own happily ever after. There are no $ex scenes, everything is implied.
The secondary and supporting characters are energetic. We are introduced to Harper’s dates, as well as Grandma Blue.
TEXTS FROM MY EXES is a story of family and friendships, secrets and lies, acceptance and love. The character driven premise is entertaining and slightly frenetic; the romance is limited but fated; the characters are desperate and charismatic.
copy supplied for review
September 16, 2025
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.
I really had the best time reading this book. This is the story of Ezra and Harper. I will go ahead and tell you that Harper is going to frustrate the fire out of you a few times. You just really want to shake her and tell her to wake up. Harper is an only child and has a father that is literally allergic to anything technology related. I thought that was an interesting little tidbit. She is also an elementary school teacher, but on the side she has been blogging and is beginning to make a little money from it. Her goal is to go viral and she is about to prove to the world that she can do it. Ezra is really a genius. He talks about his spreadsheets like they are his girlfriends. He also spends ninety nine percent of his time with Harper because they are best friend since the day they meet in college. He is also a guy that is carrying around a lot of secrets too that he has told absolutely no one. But, when Harper's grandmother challenges her to go viral or lose her apartment, the race is on and Ezra is more than willing to help her with her idea of posting texts from her exes on social media. Her followers will vote on who she should give a second date to. However, she has been on some horrible dates and begins to create a fake ex. However, when she begins videoing pieces of her dates, it is a little impossible to film someone who doesn't exist. I have to stop talking about this story or I am going to tell you the whole of the book. There is so much comedy gold in this book. I had the best time as I have said and laughed so much I think my husband thought I had fallen off the deep end. This is such a great book that you do not want to miss reading.
I really had the best time reading this book. This is the story of Ezra and Harper. I will go ahead and tell you that Harper is going to frustrate the fire out of you a few times. You just really want to shake her and tell her to wake up. Harper is an only child and has a father that is literally allergic to anything technology related. I thought that was an interesting little tidbit. She is also an elementary school teacher, but on the side she has been blogging and is beginning to make a little money from it. Her goal is to go viral and she is about to prove to the world that she can do it. Ezra is really a genius. He talks about his spreadsheets like they are his girlfriends. He also spends ninety nine percent of his time with Harper because they are best friend since the day they meet in college. He is also a guy that is carrying around a lot of secrets too that he has told absolutely no one. But, when Harper's grandmother challenges her to go viral or lose her apartment, the race is on and Ezra is more than willing to help her with her idea of posting texts from her exes on social media. Her followers will vote on who she should give a second date to. However, she has been on some horrible dates and begins to create a fake ex. However, when she begins videoing pieces of her dates, it is a little impossible to film someone who doesn't exist. I have to stop talking about this story or I am going to tell you the whole of the book. There is so much comedy gold in this book. I had the best time as I have said and laughed so much I think my husband thought I had fallen off the deep end. This is such a great book that you do not want to miss reading.
September 13, 2025
It's been a while since I last read a book by this author and I've already forgotten how great rom com books she writes.
This book is exactly that - a rom com where you cry with laughter at the ridiculousness of the situations, the even worse texts from the exes, who somehow caused the whole mess, the silly supporting characters, and the witty banter between the main characters - Ezra and Harper.
They've been best friends for years and have had a thing for each other for just as long, but they didn't want to try anything to avoid ruining their friendship.
But when Harper needs help with her imaginary perfect ex for her influencery gig, nerd Ezra losses his moppy hair and neon glasses and steps in. They start a fake dating romance, revealing secrets that might otherwise have remained hidden.
Of all the things I loved about this book, the most hilarious were the relationships between Ezra and Harper's family ( troublemaker Grandma Blue and the dad who hates what Ezra loves most - technology - I am looking at you 🧐). I found their teasing and banter hilarious.
So if you want to read a great rom com, stop looking any further, and pick this book up!
- fake dating ✔️
- Friends to lovers ✔️
- hot nerd ✔️
- glow up ✔️
- social media ✔️
- COMEDY ✔️✔️✔️
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ARC received for an honest review.
This book is exactly that - a rom com where you cry with laughter at the ridiculousness of the situations, the even worse texts from the exes, who somehow caused the whole mess, the silly supporting characters, and the witty banter between the main characters - Ezra and Harper.
They've been best friends for years and have had a thing for each other for just as long, but they didn't want to try anything to avoid ruining their friendship.
But when Harper needs help with her imaginary perfect ex for her influencery gig, nerd Ezra losses his moppy hair and neon glasses and steps in. They start a fake dating romance, revealing secrets that might otherwise have remained hidden.
Of all the things I loved about this book, the most hilarious were the relationships between Ezra and Harper's family ( troublemaker Grandma Blue and the dad who hates what Ezra loves most - technology - I am looking at you 🧐). I found their teasing and banter hilarious.
So if you want to read a great rom com, stop looking any further, and pick this book up!
- fake dating ✔️
- Friends to lovers ✔️
- hot nerd ✔️
- glow up ✔️
- social media ✔️
- COMEDY ✔️✔️✔️
-------
ARC received for an honest review.
September 19, 2025
Our FMC, Harper, needs to prove to her grandmother that she's worthy to keep her recently passed aunt's apartment by demonstrating she's a "modern creative earning her own keep". I wasn't sure why Grandma Blue was asking for this since Harper's a school teacher on her summer break (the reason becomes clear at the end). Harper, with help from her best friend, Ezra, decides to vlog about quirky texts from her exes, and the second chance dates she goes on with some of them. On the surface, Ezra's a nerdy computer genius who loves spreadsheets, but he alludes to a secret past that even Harper doesn't know about. What the reader also knows is that both Harper and Ezra carry torches for the other, but neither wants to cross the line...until he decides to jump right over it. I enjoyed the banter between the two, and the second chance dates were also entertaining to see why Harper passed on each guy in the first place. She wanted to end her social experiment by finding the one she wanted to continue dating. When the dates aren't panning out the way she's hoped, Ezra models himself into the "perfect" date and starts to reveal his true feelings for her.
I liked the banter between these two both before and after Ezra's reveal. I thought we would get a better picture of his past and the people who resurfaced in the present. This was 3.5 stars for me.
I liked the banter between these two both before and after Ezra's reveal. I thought we would get a better picture of his past and the people who resurfaced in the present. This was 3.5 stars for me.
December 27, 2025
Funny…liked it, didn’t love it.
No cliffhanger
Standalone
Told from both POVs
Best friends turned lovers romance
I love this author and I think my expectations based on her other books are just so high that this one fell a little short for me.
Don’t get me wrong, overall it was a good book. It was funny and engaging but there were too many holes in the story for me.
Ezra and Harper are best friends. Harper is trying to go viral in an effort to keep her apartment and decides to start posting horrible experiences/ texts from her exes.
Ezra helps her pick the top 5 and she decides to give them a second chance, but the 5th ex is made up. Eventually she has to go on a date with the ex that got away and Ezra steps in to pretend to be him because he has secretly been in love with Harper since day one but too scared to admit it and chance ruining their friendship.
I don’t want to give too much away, but the story just felt a little unfinished to me. As an example, Ezra is hiding this past life and getting texts from a producer who thinks Ezra owes him and then that story’s never really wrapped up or explained. And the ending felt a little rushed to me as well.
I loved the premise of the story though and did laugh out loud multiple times while reading it. The banter is great.
No cliffhanger
Standalone
Told from both POVs
Best friends turned lovers romance
I love this author and I think my expectations based on her other books are just so high that this one fell a little short for me.
Don’t get me wrong, overall it was a good book. It was funny and engaging but there were too many holes in the story for me.
Ezra and Harper are best friends. Harper is trying to go viral in an effort to keep her apartment and decides to start posting horrible experiences/ texts from her exes.
Ezra helps her pick the top 5 and she decides to give them a second chance, but the 5th ex is made up. Eventually she has to go on a date with the ex that got away and Ezra steps in to pretend to be him because he has secretly been in love with Harper since day one but too scared to admit it and chance ruining their friendship.
I don’t want to give too much away, but the story just felt a little unfinished to me. As an example, Ezra is hiding this past life and getting texts from a producer who thinks Ezra owes him and then that story’s never really wrapped up or explained. And the ending felt a little rushed to me as well.
I loved the premise of the story though and did laugh out loud multiple times while reading it. The banter is great.
September 10, 2025
“Faking a perfect ex was easy...until my best friend volunteered to play the part.”
Texts From My Exes was so good! It made me laugh so much. It had K-pop vibes, as well as witty and hilarious banter. This book was fast-paced and full of texts that make you laugh out loud.
Ezra and Harper’s relationship was addicting to read. They understood each other and were inseparable. Ezra always had her back. Even though they were best friends, they had feelings beyond friendship for each other, but were trying not to cross the line.
Harper has a blog about the texts from her exes, and she posts about them as she goes on dates with some very interesting guys. She makes money by doing this to save her apartment. Her audience wants a happy ending for her to find a decent guy. But none of her exes qualify; they all have issues. So she creates the perfect one, but he’s fake. Her best friend, Ezra, volunteers to be the perfect ex. So much happens after that.
This is a must-read! I haven’t found a book this smile-inducing in a while. Texts From My Exes is unputdownable, swoony, and sweet. Ezra was the best, and Grandma Blue was hilarious.
Thank you to Rachel Van Dyken for the e-arc copy. "Texts From My Exes" releases on October 14, 2025.
Texts From My Exes was so good! It made me laugh so much. It had K-pop vibes, as well as witty and hilarious banter. This book was fast-paced and full of texts that make you laugh out loud.
Ezra and Harper’s relationship was addicting to read. They understood each other and were inseparable. Ezra always had her back. Even though they were best friends, they had feelings beyond friendship for each other, but were trying not to cross the line.
Harper has a blog about the texts from her exes, and she posts about them as she goes on dates with some very interesting guys. She makes money by doing this to save her apartment. Her audience wants a happy ending for her to find a decent guy. But none of her exes qualify; they all have issues. So she creates the perfect one, but he’s fake. Her best friend, Ezra, volunteers to be the perfect ex. So much happens after that.
This is a must-read! I haven’t found a book this smile-inducing in a while. Texts From My Exes is unputdownable, swoony, and sweet. Ezra was the best, and Grandma Blue was hilarious.
Thank you to Rachel Van Dyken for the e-arc copy. "Texts From My Exes" releases on October 14, 2025.
September 16, 2025
4.5 stars - Cute, quirky & Ezra was 5 stars!
I absolutely adored Ezra. The best friend and computer "don't call him a nerd" who has been in love with his best friend for-EVAH and Harper who is just a hot mess.
The premise was a bit out there about why she had to do these dates with her exes to keep her apartment, but I'm also not a Tik Tok fan, so who knows - maybe it's a thing. But anyway, Ezra helps pick out these exes who she is going to date and give a second chance too, but one is thrown into the mix as a wild card.
Ezra has been keeping secrets that will blow up with this ruse and hurt the one he wants to hurt the least. BUT seeing these two's backstory - oh how my heart hurt for Ezra and the screenshots of the texts were just too funny and kept the plotline going.
I would have liked more of Ezra's backstory fleshed out, but some of it was pure gold, so all was forgiven when the story started to lag a bit from lack of depth.
"See, that's the problem with people. We act like they're two different roles: best friend or love of your life. Why...can't they be the same person?" I totally agree.
And SWOON! "Call me the one that stayed."
I voluntarily requested and read an uncorrected advance reader copy.
I absolutely adored Ezra. The best friend and computer "don't call him a nerd" who has been in love with his best friend for-EVAH and Harper who is just a hot mess.
The premise was a bit out there about why she had to do these dates with her exes to keep her apartment, but I'm also not a Tik Tok fan, so who knows - maybe it's a thing. But anyway, Ezra helps pick out these exes who she is going to date and give a second chance too, but one is thrown into the mix as a wild card.
Ezra has been keeping secrets that will blow up with this ruse and hurt the one he wants to hurt the least. BUT seeing these two's backstory - oh how my heart hurt for Ezra and the screenshots of the texts were just too funny and kept the plotline going.
I would have liked more of Ezra's backstory fleshed out, but some of it was pure gold, so all was forgiven when the story started to lag a bit from lack of depth.
"See, that's the problem with people. We act like they're two different roles: best friend or love of your life. Why...can't they be the same person?" I totally agree.
And SWOON! "Call me the one that stayed."
I voluntarily requested and read an uncorrected advance reader copy.
September 18, 2025
Texts From My Exes is a cute best friends, fake relationship romance dropped into the middle of a social media circus.
Schoolteacher Harper blogs a bit about her dating misadventures on the side, and is hoping to go viral as a content creator. Her grandmother/landlord challenges her to go have a post go viral or lose her apartment. So Harper decides to share texts from her exes, and have her followers decide which guy she should rekindle things with — but makes up one ex-boyfriend. When she has to actually go on a date with said fake ex and document it all for social media, Harper's nerdy best friend, Ezra, steps in as the faux beau.
Will fake dating ruin their friendship, or will it make Harper finally realize that the right guy has been in front of her all along? And when Ezra's secret past comes to light (because nothing is buried in the digital age), will everything come crashing to a halt?
Harper is a bit of a quirky heroine, but stable Ezra balanced her out nicely. Texts From My Exes is funny and sweet, with funny banter between the two main characters, and memorable secondary characters (like Grandma Blue and Ezra's dad).
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily left a review.
Schoolteacher Harper blogs a bit about her dating misadventures on the side, and is hoping to go viral as a content creator. Her grandmother/landlord challenges her to go have a post go viral or lose her apartment. So Harper decides to share texts from her exes, and have her followers decide which guy she should rekindle things with — but makes up one ex-boyfriend. When she has to actually go on a date with said fake ex and document it all for social media, Harper's nerdy best friend, Ezra, steps in as the faux beau.
Will fake dating ruin their friendship, or will it make Harper finally realize that the right guy has been in front of her all along? And when Ezra's secret past comes to light (because nothing is buried in the digital age), will everything come crashing to a halt?
Harper is a bit of a quirky heroine, but stable Ezra balanced her out nicely. Texts From My Exes is funny and sweet, with funny banter between the two main characters, and memorable secondary characters (like Grandma Blue and Ezra's dad).
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily left a review.
September 11, 2025
Hilarious and Brilliant!!
Oh my word was this book just what I needed.
I keep forgetting that RVD can write hilarious rom coms just as well as her mafia romances.
Texts from My Exes had me laughing hysterically nearly the entire way through. The banter between Ezra and Harper is funny, witty and pure rom com perfection.
Ezra and Harper are best friends who secretly have always had a thing for one another but never wanted to cross the line. So when Harper needs to do prove her creativity to save her Aunt's apartment, she pulls out all the guns and starts a TikTok serial about dating your ex's.
I love that RVD threw in a little bit of KPop referencing as Ezra is half Korean.
The nerdy referencing was on point and I just ate up all the teasing between the two characters.
Grandma Blue is a hilarious secondary character as well. The ever scheming octogenarian. OH! And we can't forget Harper's Dad, who is allergic to technology! OMG the family dinner scene had me crying I was laughing so hard.
So much comedic brilliance packed into this! I can't recommend it enough!
Oh my word was this book just what I needed.
I keep forgetting that RVD can write hilarious rom coms just as well as her mafia romances.
Texts from My Exes had me laughing hysterically nearly the entire way through. The banter between Ezra and Harper is funny, witty and pure rom com perfection.
Ezra and Harper are best friends who secretly have always had a thing for one another but never wanted to cross the line. So when Harper needs to do prove her creativity to save her Aunt's apartment, she pulls out all the guns and starts a TikTok serial about dating your ex's.
I love that RVD threw in a little bit of KPop referencing as Ezra is half Korean.
The nerdy referencing was on point and I just ate up all the teasing between the two characters.
Grandma Blue is a hilarious secondary character as well. The ever scheming octogenarian. OH! And we can't forget Harper's Dad, who is allergic to technology! OMG the family dinner scene had me crying I was laughing so hard.
So much comedic brilliance packed into this! I can't recommend it enough!
September 19, 2025
I was not prepared for so much comedy in this book. What started of as second chance story in the beginning turned to something well unexpected.Harper is just trying to survive being single but somehow is remembering all the exe's that well left her. Some of these texts she goes through are hillarious yet even a couple are believeable. Then we have Ezra, always the friend never the boyfriend. Now here is where it makes a huge turn and start applauding for the underdog. You see by all counts there is nothing wrong with Harper it's just her well taste in men can use some more touchups. Have to say she doesn't deserve Ezra yet in some weird way Rachel Van Dyken make them work. He has been there for everything that has well gone right and wrong for her. What was supposed to be easy is becoming well somewhat a game of lies and a person finally becoming a real hero. All in all if you looking for a romantic comedy then yes this book has it yet it somehow lacked real passion between them. Texts from my Exes has a way of makinng you wonder if it's safe to really keep the past close by or in this case on your phone.
September 21, 2025
I liked the premise of this book and the characters were interesting, but there was something (and I can’t pinpoint what) that kept me from giving it a five star rating. Ezra and Harper are best friend and have agreed to never cross the line. Unfortunately for Ezra, he has fallen for his best friend. Throughout the book we get each of their points of view and learn how they feel about each other. He agrees to become Vex; her made up ex that got away. He’s hoping she will finally see him.
There were times that I felt she was oblivious and only going through the motions. I also wished ok more than one occasion that he would have been up front with her. The texts from the exes were hilarious and left no room for wondering why they were exes. I also wish he would have been more honest with her once he revealed his true identity (I’m being vague on purpose).
Overall, I found the characters likable, the story funny, where the exes were concerned, and an honest depiction of friends realizing they want more. I hope we see more of Ezra and Harper. I received an ARC and this is my honest, voluntary review.
There were times that I felt she was oblivious and only going through the motions. I also wished ok more than one occasion that he would have been up front with her. The texts from the exes were hilarious and left no room for wondering why they were exes. I also wish he would have been more honest with her once he revealed his true identity (I’m being vague on purpose).
Overall, I found the characters likable, the story funny, where the exes were concerned, and an honest depiction of friends realizing they want more. I hope we see more of Ezra and Harper. I received an ARC and this is my honest, voluntary review.
September 29, 2025
I’m a huge, long-time fan of this author, and she’s one of the few I’ll read their books without even caring about a blurb. I’m never quite sure what I’ll get when I open one, though. I learned a long time ago that her blurbs never truly prepare you for what’s within the pages. You’ll think you’re ready and know where the story leads, but she always manages to surprise you. This story is a rom-com in very much the same style as her Bet and Consequences series. If you haven’t read any books in either series, think Friends-level comedy, but not without a touch of angst and some pretty emotional scenes thrown in.
I’ve struggled with writing this review for several days because I’ve been a RVD fan for so long. However, if I were to rank her books, this one would fall toward the bottom. At times, it felt disorganized and chaotic, leading me to re-read many scenes due to confusion. Knowing she’s had some recent personal challenges, I’m hopeful this is only a minor setback. While this book didn’t captivate me as much as her previous works, I remain optimistic about her future creations.
NICUnurse’s Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
I’ve struggled with writing this review for several days because I’ve been a RVD fan for so long. However, if I were to rank her books, this one would fall toward the bottom. At times, it felt disorganized and chaotic, leading me to re-read many scenes due to confusion. Knowing she’s had some recent personal challenges, I’m hopeful this is only a minor setback. While this book didn’t captivate me as much as her previous works, I remain optimistic about her future creations.
NICUnurse’s Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
September 30, 2025
4.25 stars
Welcome to the wonderful world of social media, where Harper and Ezra shine highlighting their friendship, but could it be something more? Harper is a woman who is challenged by her grandmother to prove her creativity or she’s going to lose her aunt’s apartment. For someone who is not exactly text savvy, trying to go viral, is like trying to get out of quicksand. Fortunately, she has a best friend Ezra, a tech nerd, who can step in and help her out. The idea is set… post texts from her exes on social media and let the public vote on which person gets a second chance. However, when the choices aren’t faring too well, she has to make up an ex. Ezra, being the man he is, scours the texts and ranks the exes and then even helps her prepare for the first date. Yet there are some secrets that Ezra is keeping that unfortunately come to light and the price to pay is heavy. After all is said and done, will the bond of friendship stay intact or will Harper lose her best friend? Overall, this is an entertaining, witty read that will make one smile and laugh. If you are looking for a fun, lighthearted read then this is one to add to your shelf.
Welcome to the wonderful world of social media, where Harper and Ezra shine highlighting their friendship, but could it be something more? Harper is a woman who is challenged by her grandmother to prove her creativity or she’s going to lose her aunt’s apartment. For someone who is not exactly text savvy, trying to go viral, is like trying to get out of quicksand. Fortunately, she has a best friend Ezra, a tech nerd, who can step in and help her out. The idea is set… post texts from her exes on social media and let the public vote on which person gets a second chance. However, when the choices aren’t faring too well, she has to make up an ex. Ezra, being the man he is, scours the texts and ranks the exes and then even helps her prepare for the first date. Yet there are some secrets that Ezra is keeping that unfortunately come to light and the price to pay is heavy. After all is said and done, will the bond of friendship stay intact or will Harper lose her best friend? Overall, this is an entertaining, witty read that will make one smile and laugh. If you are looking for a fun, lighthearted read then this is one to add to your shelf.
September 10, 2025
Trope's: Rom / Com, Best Friends to lovers.
Harper and Ezra have been best friends for ages. Harper is a blogger / conent creator. Ezra loves his spreadsheets and computers. Harper is trying to figure out why her last few 'date's' haven't worked out. Harper wants to go on new dates with those men, and see why she let them 'go'.
Ezra has a secret he has been keeping from Harper ever since they met back in college. Ezra has a secret crush on Harper. Ezra isn't sure if he should tell Harper, and ruin their friendship. Ezra's brother is the other person he turns too when he needs help - usually with Harper issues.
Harpers family loves being around Ezra. Her dad isn't sure of him, if he just wants to be friends with Harper, or if he wants something more. Grandma Blue, she loves Harper and Ezra together. She has been trying to work somethings in the 'back' to get them together. Will Grandma Blue be able to force something that isn't quiet ready?
I did receive a free ARC Copy of this book from the Author, Rachel Van Dyken. I am freely leaving an honest review.
Harper and Ezra have been best friends for ages. Harper is a blogger / conent creator. Ezra loves his spreadsheets and computers. Harper is trying to figure out why her last few 'date's' haven't worked out. Harper wants to go on new dates with those men, and see why she let them 'go'.
Ezra has a secret he has been keeping from Harper ever since they met back in college. Ezra has a secret crush on Harper. Ezra isn't sure if he should tell Harper, and ruin their friendship. Ezra's brother is the other person he turns too when he needs help - usually with Harper issues.
Harpers family loves being around Ezra. Her dad isn't sure of him, if he just wants to be friends with Harper, or if he wants something more. Grandma Blue, she loves Harper and Ezra together. She has been trying to work somethings in the 'back' to get them together. Will Grandma Blue be able to force something that isn't quiet ready?
I did receive a free ARC Copy of this book from the Author, Rachel Van Dyken. I am freely leaving an honest review.
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