The Quit List

Katie Bailey's The Quit List is a refreshing, fun, and heartfelt rom-com that explores the journey of self-discovery, love, and breaking free from unrealistic expectations. At the center of the story is Holly Greene, a woman on a quest for her happily ever after. She’s done with the dating games, the heartbreaks, and most certainly, the charming but emotionally unavailable bad boys. Enter Jax Grainger, the quintessential bad boy bartender with a sharp wit and a notorious reputation.

From the start, Holly is clear: Jax is the last person she should be interested in. He’s got a knack for flirting, a sharp sense of humor, and an undeniable charm—but he’s also emotionally closed off and, according to Holly, far from the man she’s looking for. After a disaster of a date, Jax unexpectedly swoops in to save the day, which leads Holly to a rather unconventional plan. Jax might not meet the criteria of her “Prince Charming,” but he’s perfect for one thing—helping her find him. The idea is simple: Jax will teach her how to spot the perfect man, someone who checks all the boxes on her list, and she’ll steer clear of any romantic entanglements with him. No falling for the bartender. Not an option.

The book is, at its core, about the tension between Holly's ideals and the reality of love. Holly, with her "seeking Prince Charming" mindset, has a long list of qualifications for the perfect man, and Jax—who doesn’t fit any of them—is the last person she would have expected to teach her anything about love. But as the two spend more time together, their connection grows, and Holly starts to question her own assumptions about love and happiness. What begins as a “platonic” project soon turns complicated as emotions get involved, and suddenly, Holly must confront whether the man she’s looking for is the one she’s been pushing away all along.

Bailey’s writing is sharp and full of humor, with Holly’s internal monologues providing a fresh, relatable voice. The push and pull between the characters is addicting, and while the romance may seem predictable at first glance, it’s the emotional depth and unexpected moments that elevate The Quit List. The chemistry between Holly and Jax is palpable, and while they are each dealing with their own issues—Holly with her desire for a perfect relationship and Jax with his fear of vulnerability—their slow burn romance is a delight to watch unfold.

What makes The Quit List stand out is its exploration of the idea that love often doesn’t come in the package we expect. Holly’s journey of letting go of her "perfect list" is both endearing and empowering. Through her evolving feelings for Jax, she learns that real love isn’t about ticking boxes or meeting some idealistic checklist—it’s about finding someone who challenges you, supports you, and makes you feel truly seen.

Final Thoughts: The Quit List is a charming, witty, and emotionally satisfying read. Katie Bailey balances humor with heart, crafting a story that’s both entertaining and thought-provoking. Holly and Jax’s story is proof that sometimes love isn’t about the list we create—it’s about being open to the unexpected and embracing the possibility that love might look a little different than we imagined. Fans of lighthearted romance with a touch of real emotional growth will find The Quit List to be a delightful escape.