She’s the reality TV villain everyone will love to hate. He’s the producer tasked with making it happen. What could go wrong? A hilarious, heartfelt rom-com from Australia’s leading romance expert.
Reality TV producer Murray O’Connell is the showrunner for reality dating show Marry Me, Juliet, and that means he’s the boss: he controls the cast, the crew and the story. Until Lily Fireball turns up.
Lily is everything viewers love to watch: she’s feisty, dramatic, and never backs down from a fight. Her villain narrative should be easy to pull off, but Murray keeps getting in her way. Because before she was Lily Fireball, she was Lily Ong – Murray’s best friend, and he’s determined to stop her blowing up her life on television.
As the season unfolds, Lily and Murray go head to head. Lily just wants to have some fun with her role, and Murray just wants to film the show he planned. Why won’t she listen to him? And why can’t Murray focus on the job, instead of the woman he thought was just a friend?
Buy a copy of Not Here to Make Friends here.
Read some great reviews from our Preview readers here:
Loved this book. It was such an easy read. Light-hearted and funny. The perfect rom-com, holiday read. I will he recommending it to all my friends to read over the festive break. Samara, QLD, 5 Stars
Really loved this story, capturing the inside and behind the scenes of reality TV. The characters were well-written so that the reader becomes totally involved in their journey. Such a different love story to the usual ones out there. Thoroughly enjoyed this read – a great escape. Kim, NSW, 5 Stars
An entertaining read with complex characters whose lives you quickly become invested in. Murray, hard-working, madly in love and burying his feelings in his work, and Lily, the strong, empowered woman who knows what she wants but doesn’t always go the right way about getting it. A genuinely refreshing, light-hearted page-turner, full of lessons, chemistry, heart and soul. Highly recommend! Pennie, QLD, 5 Stars
What a cracking read! I hadn’t read any of the previous books by Jodi McAlister, but I will be looking for her back catalogue. An easy to read, entertaining novel from the first page. Both Lily and Murray are well-fleshed-out characters. Shebby, QLD, 5 Stars
Not Here to Make Friends is the third instalment of the Marry Me, Juliet series and if you are a fan of reality dating shows like The Bachelor please go forth and start reading from book one in the series as there are some threads of past stories that are interwoven in this book. It’s basically about Murray and Lily the evil masterminds behind the latest season and he likes to be in control but Lily likes to mess that up. In retrospect, I didn’t like the characters as expected but now understand it all by the end. I especially like the Lily Fireball character as she is feisty, determined and won’t let up without a fight. Preeya, QLD, 5 Stars
I loved this book! I am not a huge fan of reality TV – but the inside insights coupled with the ongoing intrigue and ‘will they won’t they’ romances made for compelling reading. Once I started I was hooked! I like the way it flicks back and forth from the present to the past and back again. Thoroughly recommended as a good read! Nicola, NSW, 5 Stars
Lily Fireball is back!!!! In Not Here To Make Friends we find out the back story behind Lily Fireball, a contestant on Marry Me, Juliet who gets everyone’s feathers ruffled. Known as the Villain in the new season. Omg I was so excited to be able to read an advanced copy of Not Here to Make Friends. I absolutely loved books #1 and #2 in the series and Jodi outdid herself again!! A must-read for those who are fans of the Bachelor and Bachelorette. Melissa, SA, 5 Stars
With drama not only on camera, this is a fun read of what happens behind the scenes on reality TV. Adele, NSW, 4 Stars
An interesting insight to reality TV, loss, and love. The story itself just reinforced my dislike for reality TV, the manipulation of the audience and contestants alike… so contrived, it really pushed my buttons. Despite my personal preferences though, I was rooting for Murray all the way. The story does time travel back a forth a bit but each segment shows a different aspect of the character so you get to know them intimately. If you like reality TV and/or a good love story then this book is for you. Theresa, QLD, 4 Stars
Delightfully messy may the two main players be, I was blown away with the quality writing of this cute story. Having not had the pleasure of experiencing this author previously, the messy world of reality television does not equate to immature writing. Well-written, feisty, with undertones of hidden feelings, angst, and all things unrequited, the ditsy and fake world of this television world does not shine through to the pages. Readers don’t need an affinity for this television genre, the prose is opposite to this. Surprisingly complex, nuanced and layered. I was pleasantly surprised for more than fluff and silliness. The author manages to transport more than a reality show farce. Don’t let the stereotype fool you, this author can write it with heft! Due to this I was pleasantly surprised, which is welcomed in the harder and more serious times we find ourselves in – and this is what reading is all about for this reader. Rylee, NSW, 4 Stars
Not being a reality TV fan where truth is relative, I came reluctantly to this read of a TV woman villain, Lily Fireball, falling in love with divorced producer Murray O’Connell who’s launching Season 13 of a popular dating show and is under stress to deliver the ratings. He controls the plot line and character choices. Moreover, Lily was previously his talented, best friend co-producer not in contact with him since her husband’s funeral a year ago. Fifteen Juliets vie for the Romeo and on the first night party, Covid restrictions controversially require eliminated Juliets remain on site for the show’s six weeks’ duration. I learned how much work, stress and planning is involved in setting up all the backstage manipulations, spinning stories, massaging plots, cajoling different personalities and adapting promptly when things go wrong, NDAs and ITMs and how unused scenes generate bonus spinoffs on websites and social media. McAlister deftly delivered enough storyline twists to hook me (and the TV audience) till the final outcome. Flashback chapters work well. Does Lily Fireball get her man, but ruin her career in the process? Do they get to change the genre? You’ll have to read the book to find out. Fran, VIC, 4 Stars
Jodi McAlister is a clever writer and writing Not here to Make Friends has proven to be a refreshing novel with interesting characters and plot twists and turns which kept me reading to the very end! Rhonda, QLD, 4 Stars
If you are a fan of reality TV then this is the book for you. Lily decides to risk her relationship with Murray to become a contestant on the dating reality show that they have both worked on for years. Murray has no idea that Lily is planning on doing this until she arrives dressed in her balloon. She sets about to create havoc as Murray’s heart breaks as he produces the show and sees all that Lily is up to in the show house. I really enjoyed this story. Annamaree, QLD, 4 Stars
If you are someone who loves to watch romantic reality TV, then this may be the book for you. Murray and Lily have spent many years producing the Marry Me, Juliet reality series. They have an ability to manipulate and control situations which will make for interesting viewing.When Lily Fireball steps in to the next series and is able to influence contestants by participating herself, things change dramatically for Murray. There are a number of romantic situations in this book and you will get a taste of how individuals are convinced to behave for more viewing interest. It’s not my type of book but I’m sure it will appeal to many readers. Lorraine, VIC, 4 Stars
A fast-paced dramatic telling of a “bachelor style” show from the perspective of the producers. The dialogue is snappy and punchy and definitely keeps you very engaged with the story. Always intriguing and always with a bubbling tension under the surface; the ending is definitely a satisfying conclusion. Nicholas, VIC, 4 Stars
Not Here to Make Friends is set in Victoria during the COVID pandemic, Murray O’Connell is a reality TV producer who has lost his usual work partner, Lily Ong, due to tragedy. He misses her desperately and is wondering how he will manage the new series of Marry Me, Juliet without her when suddenly she shows up not as his work partner but as a contestant and determined to be the villain of the show as Lily Fireball. This novel, which I understand is part of a series, is one for reality TV lovers, particularly those who enjoy the dating/match-making shows. Sadly I’ve never watched any so I have to admit to getting confused and a bit lost in the middle of this book but I did enjoy many of the characters and the up and down relationship between the two main characters. It’s a very modern-day love story. It deals with main of today’s issues including racism, prejudice and the impact of social media. Despite getting a little lost I did enjoy the book and thanks to Simon & Schuster and Better Reading for the opportunity to learn a little about reality TV. Jacky, QLD, 4 Stars
The setting for Not Here to Make Friends by Jodi McAllister is a TV show, modelled along the lines of “The Bachelor” or similar, but in this case it is entitled “Romeo and Juliet”. The two main protagonists have worked together for years, and were best friends, until tragic circumstances and fate separated them. Neither one of them has ever been prepared to admit that they love the other – and even end up married to different people, though one has the feeling that those pairings were never going to last. When they do get back together, it is in very strange circumstances, as the producer of the show is shocked to discover that his ex co-producer and best friend is going to come onto the show as a “villainous” competitor to add excitement and drama to the proceedings. The atmosphere of the set during a pandemic, with quarantine problems and conditions, limiting their freedom and some of the events that occur, can be readily identified with by anyone who has watched a similar “reality TV show”. There are hilarious episodes and at times, it is a comedy of errors – but good fun all the same. This is a fun romantic comedy with a bit of a difference! I would heartily recommend this book to lovers of light-hearted, romantic fiction. Marilyn, NSW, 4 Stars
A fascinating view of the background of reality TV. It is woven around interesting characters and personalities. Martina, SA, 4 Stars
Not Here to Make Friends is a delightful rom-com weaving a hilarious and heartfelt tale set against the backdrop of reality TV. Murray O’Connell, the showrunner of the dating series Marry Me, Juliet is used to being in control until Lily Fireball, the ultimate reality TV villain, makes a dramatic entrance. The novel skilfully explores the complexities of relationships, both on and off-screen, with enjoyable flashbacks that add depth to the characters and their connections. The drama isn’t limited to the main characters; the side characters contribute to the narrative’s richness. The book is hard to put down, offering great tension and portraying morally grey characters. Not Here to Make Friends is a compelling blend of humour, romance, and unpredictable twists, making it a standout read in the rom-com genre. Charmaine, QLD, 4 Stars
I’m in two minds about this book. I found it very hard to get ‘into’ the story… The ‘behind the scenes’ of a reality show was intriguing and an eye-opener and perhaps confirmed what we all think we know of these types of shows, but be prepared for it to take a while before you really become invested in the story. Davina, WA, 3 Stars
This book was a delightful read in the classic boy-meets-girl style. It is set behind the scenes on a reality dating show much like the Bachelor/Bachelorette and is quite insightful as to what goes on behind the curtain. A good read for a day at the beach when you don’t want anything too heavy. Sarah, QLD, 3 Stars
Thanks to Better Reading Australia and Simon & Schuster (Australia) for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of Not Here to Make Friends by Jodi McAllister. An easy read with lots of twists and an ending that wasn’t expected yet again. This is the third book by Jodi McAllister based on the fictional show Marry Me, Juliet. This time it’s based around Reality TV producer Murray O’Connell and Lily Fireball also know as Lily Ong Murray’s former best friend and co-worker. Lily Fireball is definitely a thorn in Murray’s side but ultimately she is trying to restart her life and also help Murray out at the same time, will it all fall into place? Well you’ll have to read it yourself to find out… Another must-read if you love watching the Batchelor and want to escape from reality for a while. Jody, SA, 3 Stars
Set in the world of reality TV in the heights of Covid and its restrictions, this season of Marry Me, Juliet was going to come with its fare share of hurdles… including producing it without his best friend. This season has to be a hit and Murray is feeling the immense pressure of all that’s weighing on its success. He wants no surprises and is in full control mode so when Lily Fireball walks in, aka his BFF Lily Ong, Murray is knocked for six! She is back with a vengeance and not afraid to stir the pot.. her game plan is full-blown villain and she has no plans to hold back! … Overall a pleasant read. Cody, VIC, 3 Stars
Jodi McAlister takes us deep into the cringeworthy world of ‘reality’ television. In this version, women (the Juliets) are competing for an attractive man (the Romeo). The director of this particular show, Murray O’Connell heads into the new season of ‘Marry Me, Juliet’ with a few problems. The COVID-19 pandemic is starting to have an impact, and then a new contestant is foist upon him. Meet Lily Fireball. As Lily Ong, she was Murray’s best friend. As Lily Fireball, she intends to be the show’s villain, the contestant everyone will hate. And, armed with Blood of My Enemies (a perfect name for a lipstick), Lily becomes Murray’s worst nightmare. Murray can’t concentrate, and Lily is full of advice. Can Murray deliver the ratings winning series required? Which contestants will make it to the end? Will Lily and Murray resolve their issues? True love, as Gene Pitney sang, never runs smooth. Yes, while this book reinforced my prejudices against so-called reality television, I enjoyed a few laugh out loud moments. Lily Fireball rocks! Jennifer, ACT, 3 Stars
Not Here To Make Friends is Jodi McAlister’s third instalment in the Marry Me, Juliet series. It is the ultimate in holiday reads, being light and fun. Set in a TV show, not dissimilar to The Bachelor. This book gives a great insight into the running and manipulation behind the scenes. A lovely friends/lovers style read. Not my typical genre, but a good book to pick up for summer by the pool or beach! Rebecca, TAS, 3 Stars
An entertaining, funny, contemporary rom-com genre novel that seamlessly weaves together themes of friendship, professional partnerships and love. The story is set during one season of a reality dating show being filmed during the pandemic lockdown. The author takes us behind the scenes and reveals the shenanigans of a reality dating show with all its stresses and pressures. The novels two main characters Murray and Lily, have a long and complicated relationship which is shown in chapter flashback format. This is the third book in the series (I have not read the first two) but that’s no problem as it can be read as a stand alone novel. What sets Not Here to Make Friends apart is McAllister’s engaging writing style. Her prose is both evocative and accessible, making it easy for readers to immerse themselves in the story. The pacing is well-crafted, ensuring that the narrative unfolds at a brisk yet balanced pace. All in all, Not Here to Make Friends is a light, thoroughly enjoyable novel, which I am happy to recommend. Antony, VIC, 3 Stars
This book is set in the scene of the production of a reality TV show where the women (Juliets) compete to become a finalist for the Batchelor (Romeo). The two main characters, Lily and Murray, are both frustrating and addictive as your typical reality TV series are. The chapters reveal the two different POVs from both Lily and Murray in past and present times and develops leading into the current timeline. A page-turning love story which battles the moral compass between what’s right for the contestants and what going to elevate the season’s ratings. This is the 3rd book in the series; although this is the only one I have read, I still enjoyed this read as a standalone book. It shared the interesting aspects of the manipulation and behind the scenes of a production set. Although fiction, it is plausible that the real-world reality TV production likely operates in the same way. Thank you, Better Reading Australia, for the opportunity to preview this book prior to its release. Jess, QLD, 3 Stars
Not usually a book I would read as I’m not into reality television. It is essentially a love story of two people that took a very long time to get together and through all of the trials and tribulations love won out in the end. Sally, VIC, 3 Stars
Reality dating TV is the main backdrop of this rom-com by Jodi McAlister and reading this book coincided with the new season of The Bachelor. I really enjoyed the insights into how reality TV is produced. The two key players are currently working on a new series of their show, however both in very different roles! I enjoyed the characters of the Romeo and various Juliets in the latest series of the show and noticed their growth as the book went on. I found the two main characters repulsive and had no interest in how their journey progressed, especially as I could predict their ending from the start. I would not read another book featuring them as the main narrative. It was really the other characters and their storylines which kept me hooked and made this a fun read over the summer holidays. Leanne, SA, 2 Stars
Well-written and easy reading but… I think I’m the wrong demographic for this book. I don’t watch reality TV shows for the same reason. I can’t be bothered with all the game playing, highly edited, manipulated outcomes. DNF which may be an injustice as other readers have really enjoyed this book. Lyn, QLD, 2 Stars
The emotional stakes run high in this latest book by Jodi McAlister. Will Murray succeed in creating the greatest season ever of his reality show? Why is Lily seemingly destroying herself by playing the role of the villain? Will Murray and Lily find love together with so much history between them and so many complications? The book makes effective use of flashbacks to flesh out the history of the characters which explains their current relationship. This book would appeal to fans of the previous books and of modern romance novels. Paul, NSW, 2 Stars
This a very light read for those looking for a book to read on holiday. Set in a TV station during the filming of a show called Marry Me, Juliet. Murray is the producer and Lily is his love interest. She turns up to be in this show as a contestant, having been his assistance over the years he has been doing it. He had no idea she was going to do that. I actually hate all the reality shows featuring matching couples or The Bachelor. This gives you a very good idea and insight into how they run them and manipulate them to get the ratings. Sorry this is not a book I enjoyed. Would be good for a light read while on holiday. Lyndsay, QLD, 2 Stars
A story of two lovers whose lives have not quite lined up at the right time. This is almost a behind the scenes story of The Bachelor. For fans of that show I’m sure this would be a a great read to get lost on. Angie, QLD, 1 Stars
Great post. It was much needed. Love your simplistic style of explanation.
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