Something to talk about by Meryl Wilsner

A showrunner and her assistant give the world something to talk about when they accidentally fuel a ridiculous rumor in this debut romance.

Hollywood powerhouse Jo is photographed making her assistant Emma laugh on the red carpet, and just like that, the tabloids declare them a couple. The so-called scandal couldn't come at a worse time--threatening Emma's promotion and Jo's new movie.

As the gossip spreads, it starts to affect all areas of their lives. Paparazzi are following them outside the office, coworkers are treating them differently, and a "source" is feeding information to the media. But their only comment is "no comment".

With the launch of Jo's film project fast approaching, the two women begin to spend even more time together, getting along famously. Emma seems to have a sixth sense for knowing what Jo needs. And Jo, known for being aloof and outwardly cold, opens up to Emma in a way neither of them expects. They begin to realize the rumor might not be so off base after all...but is acting on the spark between them worth fanning the gossip flames?
(From the book blurb)

My thoughts:
Sweet and very romantic. I'm all for slow-burn romance. It takes time to get to know the person you are interested in and it takes time to build a common story and let it change both of you.
Jo, a wealthy and successful Hollywood star, and Emma, her patient and supportive assistant, have wonderful chemistry. I really enjoyed the diversity in this book: Jo is a 40 year old Chinese-American lesbian and Emma is Jewish, bisexual, in her mid-twenties. It isn't easy to write about a couple with an age gap, plus there is an added aspect of boss/assistant power dynamics, but Meryl Wilsner does a great job. The book also touches upon #meToo movement and the issue of sexual harrassment in Hollywood, which I found very  timely and relevant.
The book is well-written and easy to read. There is a lot of internal monologue, but for once I didn't mind, as I found it somehow very realistic in a situation with a lot of romantic uncertainty and high stakes.
A great debut that will be appreciated by all readers who like diversity and slow-burn romance. I will definitely be looking forward to Meril Wilsner's next book.
Thank you to Edelweiss and Berkley for the ARC provided in exchange for an honest opinion.