The Pairing: Special 1st

The Pairing follows Theo and Kit, exes and former childhood best friends, who accidentally book the same European food and wine tour years after a devastating breakup. Trapped together for three weeks across France, Spain, and Italy, they challenge each other to a hookup competition to prove they’ve moved on—only to discover their chemistry is far from dead. Casey McQuiston’s signature wit and heart shine in this slow-burn second-chance romance, blending lush descriptions of European cuisine, art, and scenery with raw emotional stakes.

Theo, a bartender and aspiring sommelier, and Kit, a Parisian pastry chef, navigate their unresolved feelings while indulging in decadent meals, flirtatious encounters, and the ghosts of their past. McQuiston masterfully switches perspectives halfway through the novel, deepening the complexity of their relationship. The story celebrates queer joy, self-discovery, and the messy beauty of love that refuses to fade.

Readers will savor the vivid sensory details—from buttery croissants in Bordeaux to sunlit vineyards in Tuscany—as much as the steamy tension between the protagonists. The novel’s strength lies in its authentic portrayal of bisexuality, grief, and the courage to confront old wounds. With nods to art history, mixology, and pastry, The Pairing is a love letter to Europe’s cultural richness and the healing power of shared experiences.

Though the hookup competition adds playful spice, the heart of the story lies in Theo and Kit’s journey to rebuild trust. McQuiston balances laugh-out-loud humor with poignant moments, crafting a romance that feels both timeless and refreshingly modern. The Special 1st Edition features sprayed edges with a stenciled design, making it a must-have for collectors.