Love, Lies, and Laughter: A Joyride Through Alexis Hall’s "10 Things That Never Happened"

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There’s a certain magic in receiving a book as a gift. It feels like an unspoken acknowledgment—“This made me think of you.” That’s how I got my hands on 10 Things That Never Happened by Alexis Hall, courtesy of my manager, Brittani. It came my way after Christmas, a cheerful surprise that I hadn’t expected but wholeheartedly welcomed. I had intentionally refrained from purchasing it myself—I’d slipped it onto the Christmas gift guide I made for my partner, Terry, who likes a little direction when gift-giving rolls around. While Terry didn’t snag this one for me, Brittani swooped in like a literary Santa, and I couldn’t have been happier.

Having adored Boyfriend Material and Husband Material, 2 incredible books that Terry gifted me the Christmas before, I already trusted Alexis Hall to deliver another winner. I skipped over the ARC copy in my possession because I wanted the joy of savoring this story straight from the crisp, printed pages. And let me tell you, it was worth the wait.

Sam Becker is living his best managerial life—or at least, he was until his boss, Jonathan Forest, summoned him to the Croydon branch for "a talk." Sam loves his role managing the Leeds location of a bed and bath retailer. He’s a natural leader, creating a workplace his team genuinely loves—a rare feat. But Jonathan, the intimidating, no-nonsense owner of the company, sees things differently. Hiring Sam had been a sentimental decision, one he now regrets. Determined to rectify his perceived mistake, Jonathan is ready for a tough conversation.

Only, things take an unexpected turn. Sam, thoroughly panicked by the prospect of a confrontation with his surly boss, bumps his head. And in a moment of impulsive genius—or sheer terror—he decides to fake amnesia. What starts as a wild excuse to save his job turns into something much more complicated as Jonathan, wracked with guilt, takes Sam into his home to "recover."

As Sam gets to know Jonathan better, he starts to see a softer, more human side to the man he once thought was all steel and edges. But with their relationship evolving under the shadow of one big lie, Sam faces a dilemma: can he come clean without breaking what they’ve built? Alexis Hall masterfully blends laugh-out-loud moments with deeply touching scenes, crafting a rom-com that’s as heartfelt as it is hilarious.

Sam and Jonathan’s journey is everything I love about Alexis Hall’s writing. These characters aren’t just protagonists; they feel like real, flawed people with quirks, insecurities, and layers that peel back over the course of the story. Sam’s sunny disposition and Jonathan’s gruff exterior create a delightful opposites-attract dynamic, and watching their relationship evolve is nothing short of enchanting.
What makes this book shine is the emotional depth behind all the humor. One moment you’re giggling at Sam’s antics, and the next, you’re hit with a wave of poignancy that stays with you. Alexis Hall excels at creating stories where love doesn’t just happen despite the messiness—it happens because of it. And the supporting cast? Pure gold. They bring added hilarity and heart, making the story even richer.

It’s not just a rom-com; it’s a reminder of the beauty in vulnerability, second chances, and the courage to face the truth—even when it’s messy.

Have you had the chance to read 10 Things That Never Happened yet? What were your standout moments? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments. Let’s gush, laugh, and dissect this incredible story together! And hey—if you’re feeling extra generous today, know that any small token of appreciation to fuel more bookish adventures is always treasured. 😉
Here’s to stories that make us laugh, cry, and believe in the beauty of messy, complicated love!


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