Cover Story - an investigative reporter and an intern create a fake romance to get a huge story.

Bel Macauley, who had a successful podcast, is now an investigative reporter for a major British newspaper, working in its remote office in Manchester. Connor Adams is their new intern. Unlike most interns, Connor is in his mid-30s, having made a career switch from finance, which he despised, to journalism. Bel and Connor get off on the wrong foot. When Bel comes upon a significant lead about Manchester's married mayor involving inappropriate behavior with women, she needs proof to proceed with the story. She must gain the trust of a young woman who has access to vital information. While undercover, Connor accidentally sees her speaking with the woman, and to protect her identity, Bel introduces him as her boyfriend. Connor agrees to continue the charade, and in return, Bel agrees to include him in the investigation with a byline in the eventual story.

Cover Story by Mhairi McFarlane was an enjoyable, slow-burn romance story. The main characters have an appealing rapport that develops as they realize they work well together. Both main characters have faced challenges, including troubled relationships. The aspect of two journalists working together to break an important story made for an entertaining romp. No surprises here. Just a question of when they'll realize they are a good fit and acknowledge that what they are feeling is real. It's a nice blend of emotion, humor, and some serious issues.

Rated 4 out of 5 stars.

Contemporary Fiction | Romance.

Publication Date: October 7, 2025.

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