A review by dhatislandbookworm
Bi-Partisan by Dallas Smith

emotional funny lighthearted medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

Is this mic on? *ahem* DALLAS SMITH HAS DONE IT AGAIN 🗣️ 

Queried Sick, Smith’s debut, was one of my favorite reads of 2023. Because of this, I knew that Bi-Partisan would be a hit. I mean, fake dating? A political subplot? Found family? It was basically made for me. Well, I’m happy to report that I was correct 😌 

Jamie and Adrian were so damn cute! Jamie is the perfect Southern gentleman, Adrian is the ultimate consent king, and their story was a perfectly paced journey to an open, trusting relationship. And y’all: they communicated for most of their conflicts. I literally shouted “THANK YOU DALLAS” for making emotionally mature characters. I also enjoyed the side characters! I always love when SCs have unique personalities and Smith is great at making me excited to see them on page again. 

The mental health aspect of Adrian and Jamie’s story was also executed well. As someone who also has anxiety, I admired seeing it discussed so candidly. There were important conversations about normalizing therapy, medication, burnout, and taking care of yourself — even when it feels like the world is crumbling around you. 

 

Bi-Partisan had me giggling every few minutes and every scene between the two felt like a warm hug. It’s perfect for anyone who enjoys fake dating, swoon worthy MCs, a supportive friend group, and adorable cats 🫶🏾