Bad Words: A Novel

About this book

“The rare kind of book I can’t believe doesn’t already exist . . . [a] clear, clever voice and incisive social commentary elevate the book’s irresistible will-they-won’t-they romance to a once-in-a-lifetime read about truth, art, vulnerability, and all the sticky places they intersect. BAD WORDS LEFT ME BUZZING.” - EMILY HENRY, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Great Big Beautiful Life Parker Navarro’s debut novel was meant to define his career - until critic Selina Chan’s blistering review made it the flop of the decade. Four years later, his new book is his shot at redemption; for Selina, reviewing him again is a professional risk she can’t refuse. When her second takedown ignites a viral feud, both their fortunes shift overnight. But as the literary world feeds on their public sparring, a quieter dialogue begins - one that challenges everything they thought they knew about success, sincerity, and each other. Both incisive and tender, Bad Words lays bare the costs of creation - the pull between ambition and integrity, the vulnerability of being seen, and the unexpected closeness that can grow in the space between critique and care. "A genre-redefining romance that sets a thrilling new standard… Easily one of my favourites of the year, if not the decade." - Carley Fortune, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Our Perfect Storm "Full of blistering barbs, incisive takedowns and searing gazes, Bad Words is smart and propulsive." - Mary H.K. Choi, New York Times bestselling author of Pool House "Full of wit, warmth, and deliciously sharp observations on books and the people who love them... I didn’t want it to end." - Stacey Yu, author of Kitten