This or That: Popular vs. Underrated?

The Bodyguard or The Upside of Falling?

Choosing your next book shouldn’t feel overwhelming — but sometimes it does, especially when one title is everywhere and another feels quietly forgotten. Additionally, it’s hard to know whether the popular book is a quality read.

Today’s This or That choice is all about romance, fake dating, and deciding between a popular favorite and an underrated gem:

The Bodyguard by Katherine Center
🤍 The Upside of Falling by Alex Light

If you’re in the mood for romance but not sure which direction to go, let’s break it down in a simple, cozy way.


🌟 The Popular Pick: The Bodyguard by Katherine Center

If you’ve spent any time browsing romance recommendations, chances are you’ve heard of The Bodyguard. This book has earned its popularity for good reason. In fact, the cast of the movie has just been announced!

At its core, it’s a fake dating romance with a fun twist: the female main character is the bodyguard, and the male lead is the one being protected. The story blends humor, warmth, and emotional depth in a way that feels comforting and easy to sink into.

Why readers love it:

  • Witty and lighthearted writing
  • Strong, capable main character
  • Feel-good romance with heart
  • Perfect if you want something uplifting

This is the kind of book you pick up when you want to relax, smile, and enjoy a romance that feels polished and widely loved.

👉 Choose The Bodyguard if you’re craving:

  • A hyped, well-loved romance
  • Humor mixed with heartfelt moments
  • A confident, comforting read

🤍 The Underrated Pick: The Upside of Falling by Alex Light

While The Bodyguard gets a lot of attention, The Upside of Falling feels like a quiet book that deserves more love.

This is also a fake dating romance, but the tone is softer and more emotional. The story focuses on vulnerability, connection, and those small moments that slowly build into something meaningful.

It’s not loud or flashy — it’s gentle, reflective, and perfect for readers who love feeling deeply connected to characters.

Why it deserves more attention:

  • Emotional, character-driven romance
  • Soft pacing with heartfelt moments
  • Explores insecurity and growth
  • Feels intimate and sincere

This is the book you reach for when you want to slow down and feel everything.

👉 Choose The Upside of Falling if you’re in the mood for:

  • A quieter, emotional romance
  • Gentle storytelling
  • An underrated book that feels personal

🤍 My Cozy Recommendation

I personally was a huge fan of both. The Upside of Falling is more whimsical and high school coded. While the Bodyguard is a lot more fast-paced and fun. You definitely can’t go wrong with either, and I would recommend reading them both at some point. But just because there’s a movie coming out soon (and I’m a big supporter of reading the book first!), I would go with the Bodyguard.


✨ So… Which One Should You Read?

Both books share a fake dating trope, but they deliver very different reading experiences.

  • If you want popular, polished, and comfortingThe Bodyguard
  • If you want soft, emotional, and underratedThe Upside of Falling

There’s no wrong choice — it’s all about your mood.

And that’s what This or That: Books is here for 🤍
Helping you choose your next read in a way that feels easy, cozy, and fun.


☕ Final This or That Question

Would you rather read a fan favorite or a hidden gem right now?

Let me know — and stay cozy 📖✨

One response to “This or That: Popular vs. Underrated?”

  1. fascinatingbad9a8eea0 Avatar
    fascinatingbad9a8eea0

    I wanna read the hidden gems.

    Liked by 1 person

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I’m Annaleen!

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