If you're in the mood for a sweet, swoony rom-com with major Pretty Woman, Maid in Manhattan, and Cinderella vibes, Lynn Painter delivers with Maid for Each Other. This fast-paced, feel-good romance brings together fake dating, mistaken identity, and opposites-attract chemistry for a story that's familiar in the best way.
Summary
Abi Mariano is a hardworking student juggling multiple jobs including cleaning the penthouse of a millionaire she’s never actually met. When an infestation displaces her from her apartment, she decides to crash at the empty penthouse just for a few nights. What could go wrong?
Everything, of course!
When the owner’s parents unexpectedly show up, Abi introduces herself as “Abi”… unaware that their son, Declan Powell, has been telling everyone he has a girlfriend named “Abby” to get them off his back.
Cue the chaos!
When Declan returns and realizes the convenient coincidence he proposes a solution: she can stay in the penthouse in exchange for pretending to be his girlfriend for the week.
It’s just business. No pleasure. Until, of course, feelings start to get involved.
Review
4 stars | Fake dating | Rom-com
This book was an absolutely adorable quick read. I flew through it in a day and loved every minute!
Abi is a standout heroine funny, sassy, loyal, and full of quirky charm.
Declan fits the swoony millionaire mold, and while he’s a bit of a classic grumpy MMC, he still delivers sweet moments (especially that gift)!
Is it predictable? Yes. But in the most comforting, cozy way. It’s like watching your favorite rom-com for the hundredth time: you know what’s coming, and you still love every minute!
The chemistry between Abi and Declan is delightful, and their banter had me smiling the whole time.
While I wished Declan’s character had a little more depth, the story hits every trope it sets out to deliver—and does it well. It’s fake dating perfection with a modern fairy tale vines and I am here for it!
What Makes It Stand Out
- Rom-Com mashup energy: Fans of Pretty Woman and Cinderella will feel right at home
- Strong, funny heroine: Abi steals the show with her humor, kindness, and confidence
- Feel-good pacing: Easy to binge in one afternoon and perfect for the beach or a cozy weekend
- Familiar in a comforting way: Predictable in the best way
Read If You Love:
- Strangers to Lovers
- Grumpy x Sunshine
- Fake Dating
- Forced Proximity
- Millionaire x Maid dynamics
- Rom-Coms with cozy vibes
Read-Alikes: Books to Pick Up If You Loved Maid for Each Other
1. The Love Wager by Lynn Painter
If you loved Abi’s sass and Declan’s slow-burn charm, you’ll devour this hilarious fake dating rom-com from the same author. It’s full of opposites-attract banter!
2. The Do-Over by Lynn Painter
More Painter magic! This one blends grumpy/sunshine tension with time loops and high school chaos. It is a hilarious delightful YA read!
3. The Spanish Love Deception by Elena Armas
If fake dating and grumpy x sunshine are your thing, this international office romance delivers all the slow-burn feels, tension, and eventual swoon you’re looking for.
Final Thoughts
Maid for Each Other is the book equivalent of curling up in your favorite fuzzy blanket with a tub of popcorn and rewatching your favorite rom-com. It’s not revolutionary but it is ridiculously fun!
If you’re looking for something quick, heartwarming, and full of chemistry, this one’s for you.
Recommended for spring and summer reading, especially by the pool or at the beach. Lynn Painter delivers another win with this swoony, sweet, and satisfying romantic comedy.
