Bad Words

By Rioghnach Robinson

"A book that could only ever have been written by R oghnach 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

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1250431298
• ISBN13: 9781250431295
• Release Date: October 2026
• Publisher: St. Martin's Press
• Length: 400 Pages
• Weight: 1.30 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.4" x 6.4" x 9.3"