As a lover of their other two adult fiction works, I couldn't wait to give this a read and I was not disappointed. Exes Kit and Theo end up on the same bus tour group of cities around europe and in what felt like just an attempt to make each other jealous, they decided to have a competition on who can hook up with the most people throughout the tour. A totally fantastic summer read, I laughed throughout the whole thing and it even had me taking notes on some beautiful places to visit myself. Thank you so much to the publishers for sending me a review copy:)

The new novel from Casey McQuiston secures her spot as an automatic buy author. The Pairing whisks you away into the lives of Theo and Kit, and immerses you in a sun drenched European tour, with food and drink descriptions so evocative, you can almost taste what they consume along the way. A second chance romance for second chance skeptics - Theo and Kit are easy to love and easy to cheer on. Add in some character representation that truly made me feel seen, and you can see why this is my top read for this summer.

Kit and Theo were lovers, partners, and best friends until an argument on a plane on the way to their tour of Europe caused them to part ways. Five years later, they find themselves seated next to eachother on the bus for the same tour, having both coincidentally decided to use their ticket before it expires. With tensions forming, and past feelings resurfacing, the pair form a pact - whoever can sleep with the most people during the tour wins, and everybody is on the table. Set in the most gorgeous European locations within France, Italy, and Spain, with enticing descriptions of food and drink, this book follows the pair on their tour and through their encouters, and the delights each location has to offer them. Having previously read and adored Red, White and Royal Blue, I was confident that Casey McQuiston would win me over again, and of course she did! I absolutely devoured this book, the descriptions were so inviting, the tension so riveting, and the food so delicious I could almost taste it through the pages! The deep research into the locations, food and drinks was so clear, combined they wove such a complex tapestry and made me feel as though I was standing there with the group. The queer rep was strong as ever in this one with a particular focus on bisexuality, and nonbinary identity, as well as a very open and diverse discussions around sex and sexual desire. I'd also like to give a special mention to all of the Lord of the Rings references, as a big fan of LOTR, these gave me a huge smile each time and even had me sobbing at 'beyond all jewels'. Overall, this has been one of my favourite reads of the year, and I'm sure I'll revisit it again and again in the future! Thank you to Casey McQuiston, Pan MacMillan and Netgalley for access to my early copy of this book

Absolutely adored this. Horny bisexual chaos AND deliciously gorgeous descriptions of the places and food Kit and Theo encounter on their big European adventure. Great cast of supporting characters too (three cheers for the Calums!) and of course all the places are supporting characters in their own right. I loved that McQuiston wrote just as loving and luscious descriptions of dive bars and family restaurants as of the famous art and museums. Thank you to NetGalley for the advance copy

Thank you Netgalley for giving me an E-Arc of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. "The Pairing" by Casey McQuistion is an enchanting tale bathed in the warm glow of summer, where the paths of two former flames, Theo and Kit, converge unexpectedly on a culinary odyssey across Europe. What begins as a playful challenge to tally up conquests soon evolves into a journey of self-discovery and rekindled affection. McQuistion's vivid prose transports readers to the sun-kissed landscapes of France, Spain, and Italy, each locale pulsating with its own unique charm. From the bustling streets of Paris to the tranquil vineyards of Tuscany, the narrative brims with tantalizing descriptions that awaken the senses. The culinary delights described with such fervor by Theo and Kit left me yearning to savor each dish alongside them, my palate tantalized with every page turn. Yet, beyond the allure of exotic locales and delectable cuisine lies the heart of the story—the complex and endearing characters of Theo and Kit. Their breakup, shrouded in misunderstanding and personal struggles, unfolds into a poignant exploration of ambition, independence, and the enduring bonds of love. Kit's determination to forge their own path amidst the shadows of familial expectation, juxtaposed with Theo's longing to fulfill his culinary dreams, imbues the narrative with depth and resonance. Their banter crackles with wit and humor, injecting moments of levity into their tumultuous journey. As their shared history unfurls through alternating perspectives, it becomes evident that their connection transcends time and circumstance—they are, undeniably, soulmates intertwined by destiny. McQuistion deftly navigates themes of identity and acceptance, particularly through Kit's poignant coming-out journey as non-binary—a testament to the author's commitment to inclusivity and representation. The tender romance that blossoms between Theo and Kit is rendered with sensitivity and authenticity, each intimate moment woven with care and tenderness. Their gradual realization of the depth of their feelings for one another is both heartwarming and profoundly moving, underscoring the timeless adage that true love never truly fades.