Lynn Painter, beloved for her witty romantic comedies, returns with Maid for Each Other, a novel that mixes tropes readers love fake dating, forced proximity, opposites attract into a sweet and swoony rom-com that feels equal parts Pretty Woman and Maid in Manhattan.
Abi Mariano is a part-time student juggling two jobs, one of which is cleaning luxury apartments. When an infestation forces her out of her own place, she takes temporary refuge in a penthouse she regularly cleans, confident that the owner is away. Everything seems fine until his parents walk in one morning and assume she is their son’s girlfriend. The problem? Their son, Declan Powell, not only doesn’t have a girlfriend, but has already invented a fake one named “Abby” to get his family off his back.
When Declan realizes the mix-up, he proposes a deal: Abi will play the part of his girlfriend for the week, and in return he’ll give her exactly what she needs. What begins as a business arrangement quickly spirals into something much more complicated as the chemistry between them proves harder to fake than either expected.
What Works
This book shines in its banter and its breezy tone. Abi is a strong, witty, and resourceful heroine, someone who works tirelessly and doesn’t want to be handed anything she hasn’t earned. Readers have found her relatable and easy to root for. Declan, the wealthy workaholic with hidden softness, delivers some of the most endearing moments. His generosity, combined with a touch of golden retriever energy, balances Abi’s determination and sass beautifully.
The alternating POVs give the romance added charm, letting us see both characters slowly break down their walls. Painter also takes time to develop the relationship instead of rushing it, making the eventual emotional payoff more satisfying.
Where It Stumbles
While fun and heartwarming, the story doesn’t break much new ground. Some readers found the tropes predictable and the beats overly familiar. Declan, in particular, leans on the stereotypical billionaire mold, and his character could have benefited from more depth. A few also noted that the middle section drags before momentum returns in the last third.
Still, even with these shortcomings, the book offers the kind of comfort read rom-com fans often crave light, funny, and easy to devour in a single sitting.
Final Thoughts
Maid for Each Other might not reinvent the rom-com formula, but it doesn’t need to. With its mix of mistaken identity, fake dating antics, and heartfelt gestures, it delivers a charming escape that feels like watching a favorite romantic comedy on a cozy afternoon. If you are in the mood for something lighthearted, swoony, and delightfully familiar, this one belongs on your reading list.
Click here to grab your copy of Maid for Each Other on Amazon.
