Bad Words

"A book that could only ever have been written by Ríoghnach Robinson, whose clear, clever voice and incisive social commentary elevate the book's irresistible will-they-won't-they romance to a once-in-a-lifetime read about truth, art, vulnerability, and all the sticky places they intersect. BAD WORDS LEFT ME BUZZING." - EMILY HENRY, #1 New York Times bestselling author

A sharp and deeply felt debut about the connections that both inspire and undo us.

Parker Navarro's debut novel was meant to define his career - until critic Selina Chan's blistering review made it the flop of the decade. Four years later, his new book is his shot at redemption; for Selina, reviewing him again is a professional risk she can't refuse. When her second takedown ignites a viral feud, both their fortunes shift overnight. But as the literary world feeds on their public sparring, a quieter dialogue begins - one that challenges everything they thought they knew about success, sincerity, and each other.

Both incisive and tender, Bad Words lays bare the costs of creation - the pull between ambition and integrity, the vulnerability of being seen, and the unexpected closeness that can grow in the space between critique and care.

"A genre-redefining romance that sets a thrilling new standard... Easily one of my favourites of the year, if not the decade." - Carley Fortune, #1 New York Times bestselling author

"Full of blistering barbs, incisive takedowns and searing gazes, Bad Words is smart and propulsive." - Mary H.K. Choi, New York Times bestselling author

Binding Type: Hardcover
Publisher: St. Martin's Press
Published: 10/06/2026
ISBN: 9781250431295
Pages: 400
Weight: 1.00lbs
Size: 9.25h x 6.12w x 1.00d

Review Citations: Shelf Awareness 01/01/0001
Library Journal 07/17/2026 pg. 1
Booklist 08/01/2026