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The Burnout
Sasha has had it. She cannot bring herself to respond to another inane, “urgent” (but obviously not at all urgent) email or participate in the corporate employee joyfulness program. She hasn’t seen her friends in months. Sex? Seems like a lot of effort. Even cooking dinner takes far too much planning. Sasha has hit a wall.
Armed with good intentions to drink kale smoothies, try yoga, and find peace, she heads to the seaside resort she loved as a child. But it’s the off season, the hotel is in a dilapidated shambles, and she has to share the beach with the only other a grumpy guy named Finn, who seems as stressed as Sasha. How can she commune with nature when he’s sitting on her favorite rock, watching her? Nor can they agree on how best to alleviate their burnout ( manifesting, wild swimming; drinking whisky, getting pizza delivered to the beach).
When curious messages, seemingly addressed to Sasha and Finn, begin to appear on the beach, the two are forced to talk—about everything. How did they get so burned out? Can either of them remember something they used to love? (Answer: surfing!) And the question they try and fail to ignore: what does the energy between them—flaring even in the face of their bone-deep exhaustion—signify?
Armed with good intentions to drink kale smoothies, try yoga, and find peace, she heads to the seaside resort she loved as a child. But it’s the off season, the hotel is in a dilapidated shambles, and she has to share the beach with the only other a grumpy guy named Finn, who seems as stressed as Sasha. How can she commune with nature when he’s sitting on her favorite rock, watching her? Nor can they agree on how best to alleviate their burnout ( manifesting, wild swimming; drinking whisky, getting pizza delivered to the beach).
When curious messages, seemingly addressed to Sasha and Finn, begin to appear on the beach, the two are forced to talk—about everything. How did they get so burned out? Can either of them remember something they used to love? (Answer: surfing!) And the question they try and fail to ignore: what does the energy between them—flaring even in the face of their bone-deep exhaustion—signify?
416 pages, Hardcover
First published October 10, 2023
About the author
Sophie Kinsella
173 books41k followersSophie Kinsella has sold over 40 million copies of her books in more than 60 countries, and she has been translated into over 40 languages.
Sophie Kinsella first hit the UK bestseller lists in September 2000 with her first novel in the Shopaholic series – The Secret Dreamworld of a Shopaholic (also published as Confessions of a Shopaholic). The book’s heroine, Becky Bloomwood – a fun and feisty financial journalist who loves shopping but is hopeless with money – captured the hearts of readers worldwide. Becky has since featured in seven further bestselling books, Shopaholic Abroad (also published as Shopaholic Takes Manhattan), Shopaholic Ties the Knot, Shopaholic & Sister, Shopaholic & Baby, Mini Shopaholic, Shopaholic to the Stars and Shopaholic to the Rescue. Becky Bloomwood came to the big screen in 2009 with the hit Disney movie Confessions of a Shopaholic, starring Isla Fisher and Hugh Dancy.
Sophie has also written seven standalone novels which have all been bestsellers in the UK, USA and other countries around the world: Can You Keep A Secret?, The Undomestic Goddess, Remember Me?, Twenties Girl, I’ve Got Your Number, Wedding Night, and My Not So Perfect Life, which was a Goodreads Choice Awards finalist for Best Fiction in 2017.
In 2014 she published a Young Adult novel Finding Audrey about a teenage girl with social anxiety and her madcap family, and in January 2018, Sophie published her first illustrated book for young readers about the charming adventures of a mother-daughter fairy duo, Mummy Fairy and Me (also published as Fairy Mom and Me).
Sophie’s latest novel, Surprise Me, published in February 2018, presents a humorous yet moving portrait of a marriage—its intricacies, comforts, and complications. Surprise Me reveals that hidden layers in a close relationship are often yet to be discovered.
Sophie wrote her first novel under her real name, Madeleine Wickham, at the tender age of 24, whilst she was working as a financial journalist. The Tennis Party was immediately hailed as a success by critics and the public alike and became a top ten bestseller. She went on to publish six more novels as Madeleine Wickham: A Desirable Residence, Swimming Pool Sunday, The Gatecrasher, The Wedding Girl, Cocktails for Three and Sleeping Arrangements.
Sophie was born in London. She studied music at New College, Oxford, but after a year switched to Politics, Philosophy and Economics. She now lives in London, UK, with her husband and family.
Visit Sophie's Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/SophieKinsell...
Series:
* Shopaholic
Sophie Kinsella first hit the UK bestseller lists in September 2000 with her first novel in the Shopaholic series – The Secret Dreamworld of a Shopaholic (also published as Confessions of a Shopaholic). The book’s heroine, Becky Bloomwood – a fun and feisty financial journalist who loves shopping but is hopeless with money – captured the hearts of readers worldwide. Becky has since featured in seven further bestselling books, Shopaholic Abroad (also published as Shopaholic Takes Manhattan), Shopaholic Ties the Knot, Shopaholic & Sister, Shopaholic & Baby, Mini Shopaholic, Shopaholic to the Stars and Shopaholic to the Rescue. Becky Bloomwood came to the big screen in 2009 with the hit Disney movie Confessions of a Shopaholic, starring Isla Fisher and Hugh Dancy.
Sophie has also written seven standalone novels which have all been bestsellers in the UK, USA and other countries around the world: Can You Keep A Secret?, The Undomestic Goddess, Remember Me?, Twenties Girl, I’ve Got Your Number, Wedding Night, and My Not So Perfect Life, which was a Goodreads Choice Awards finalist for Best Fiction in 2017.
In 2014 she published a Young Adult novel Finding Audrey about a teenage girl with social anxiety and her madcap family, and in January 2018, Sophie published her first illustrated book for young readers about the charming adventures of a mother-daughter fairy duo, Mummy Fairy and Me (also published as Fairy Mom and Me).
Sophie’s latest novel, Surprise Me, published in February 2018, presents a humorous yet moving portrait of a marriage—its intricacies, comforts, and complications. Surprise Me reveals that hidden layers in a close relationship are often yet to be discovered.
Sophie wrote her first novel under her real name, Madeleine Wickham, at the tender age of 24, whilst she was working as a financial journalist. The Tennis Party was immediately hailed as a success by critics and the public alike and became a top ten bestseller. She went on to publish six more novels as Madeleine Wickham: A Desirable Residence, Swimming Pool Sunday, The Gatecrasher, The Wedding Girl, Cocktails for Three and Sleeping Arrangements.
Sophie was born in London. She studied music at New College, Oxford, but after a year switched to Politics, Philosophy and Economics. She now lives in London, UK, with her husband and family.
Visit Sophie's Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/SophieKinsell...
Series:
* Shopaholic
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 5,191 reviews
July 11, 2024
I’m wishing the best recovery to Sophie Kinsella. She’s one of the most talented authors who helped me get through the most depressing times of my life with her brilliant sense of humor and positivity. We need her huge sense of positivity, her unique creative mind in our lives. Sending my prayers and good energy for her and her loved ones!
Sophie Kinsella is back with her latest book, a delightful and hilarious read that captures the essence of her early works. With its laugh-out-loud comedy, heartwarming romance, and thoughtful representation of mental health awareness, this book is a true gem.
From the first few chapters, I found myself uncontrollably laughing, nearly falling off the couch with each burst of humor. The antics of the characters were simply uproarious, from the nun-chasing scene to the hilarious moments at Pret a Mange. The introduction of the Rilston Bay Hotel crew, including the nonstop apologizer Simon, the overly sensitive Nicolai, the energized aspiring freelance panty business owner Cassidy, and the nap-taking, shoulder-leaning, slow-walking Herbert, added even more comedy to the story. And let's not forget the weirdest text messages sent by the hotel app! It's safe to say that this may be the funniest book by the author.
But it wasn't just the humor that captivated me. I also adored the concept of two burnout characters seeking solace in their childhood happy place and reconnecting with their surf teacher, who became their mentor and hero. Their slow-burn romance, sizzling attraction, and journey from enemies to friends to lovers kept me hooked throughout the story.
Sasha Worth, the marketing prodigy and director of special promotions at Zoose, finds herself drowning under the pressure of her job. As the emails pile up and her work-life balance crumbles, she experiences burnout and loses her appetite for life. But a reservation made by her mother takes her back to Rilston Bay, where she embarks on a journey of self-discovery and healing. Along the way, she encounters a dilapidated hotel, a grumpy yet attractive guy named Finn, and a shared experience of burnout. Together, they form an unexpected friendship and unravel the mystery of strange notes and gifts left by a couple.
Their shared experiences of burnout and the need for healing create a bond between Sasha and Finn. Their friendship evolves as they embark on a quest to solve the mystery of the notes and gifts left by a couple, despite their insistence that they are not meant for Sasha and Finn themselves. Alongside their journey, they rediscover the joy of surfing and embrace the thrill of riding waves, providing moments of excitement and personal growth.
Overall, this book is an entertaining and uplifting romantic comedy that strikes a balance between laughter and heartfelt moments. Sophie Kinsella's storytelling prowess shines through as she explores themes of self-discovery, resilience, and the power of connection. I highly recommend this book as a delightful escape filled with laughter, heartwarming moments, and a reminder of the importance of finding joy and healing in unexpected places.
I extend my sincerest thanks to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group/Dial Press for granting me the opportunity to read and review this captivating
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Sophie Kinsella is back with her latest book, a delightful and hilarious read that captures the essence of her early works. With its laugh-out-loud comedy, heartwarming romance, and thoughtful representation of mental health awareness, this book is a true gem.
From the first few chapters, I found myself uncontrollably laughing, nearly falling off the couch with each burst of humor. The antics of the characters were simply uproarious, from the nun-chasing scene to the hilarious moments at Pret a Mange. The introduction of the Rilston Bay Hotel crew, including the nonstop apologizer Simon, the overly sensitive Nicolai, the energized aspiring freelance panty business owner Cassidy, and the nap-taking, shoulder-leaning, slow-walking Herbert, added even more comedy to the story. And let's not forget the weirdest text messages sent by the hotel app! It's safe to say that this may be the funniest book by the author.
But it wasn't just the humor that captivated me. I also adored the concept of two burnout characters seeking solace in their childhood happy place and reconnecting with their surf teacher, who became their mentor and hero. Their slow-burn romance, sizzling attraction, and journey from enemies to friends to lovers kept me hooked throughout the story.
Sasha Worth, the marketing prodigy and director of special promotions at Zoose, finds herself drowning under the pressure of her job. As the emails pile up and her work-life balance crumbles, she experiences burnout and loses her appetite for life. But a reservation made by her mother takes her back to Rilston Bay, where she embarks on a journey of self-discovery and healing. Along the way, she encounters a dilapidated hotel, a grumpy yet attractive guy named Finn, and a shared experience of burnout. Together, they form an unexpected friendship and unravel the mystery of strange notes and gifts left by a couple.
Their shared experiences of burnout and the need for healing create a bond between Sasha and Finn. Their friendship evolves as they embark on a quest to solve the mystery of the notes and gifts left by a couple, despite their insistence that they are not meant for Sasha and Finn themselves. Alongside their journey, they rediscover the joy of surfing and embrace the thrill of riding waves, providing moments of excitement and personal growth.
Overall, this book is an entertaining and uplifting romantic comedy that strikes a balance between laughter and heartfelt moments. Sophie Kinsella's storytelling prowess shines through as she explores themes of self-discovery, resilience, and the power of connection. I highly recommend this book as a delightful escape filled with laughter, heartwarming moments, and a reminder of the importance of finding joy and healing in unexpected places.
I extend my sincerest thanks to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group/Dial Press for granting me the opportunity to read and review this captivating
medium.com
November 3, 2023
I buddy read this with my friend Amanda. Reading Sophie Kinsella's new releases became our thing at this point.
I'll be honest here: This was a disappointment.
Keep in mind my expectations weren't high anyway, as I was already disappointed in few of Kinsella's books recently. I think the last one I genuinely liked was Christmas Shopaholic, but standalones were all mediocre and silly.
The Burnout was the most boring book that I've read this year.
Most of the time nothing happened, and even when something did move the plot, I didn't care about it.
The Hotel Sasha stayed in was ridiculous, and I don't mean it in a good way.
I suppose some readers would find them funny, but to me they were all unprofessional and they made me angry more then a few times.
I still can't believe Sasha went along with all of it.
unfortunately, I wasn't a fan of hers, with all the faking and paying attention to other's opinions of her.
I didn't like Finn either. And also I couldn't ship them as a pair, as there were no chemistry between them whatsoever.
Overall, this was a miss for me and I don't think I'll be eagerly waiting for Kinsella's new releases. I'd rather re-read her backlist instead.
I'll be honest here: This was a disappointment.
Keep in mind my expectations weren't high anyway, as I was already disappointed in few of Kinsella's books recently. I think the last one I genuinely liked was Christmas Shopaholic, but standalones were all mediocre and silly.
The Burnout was the most boring book that I've read this year.
Most of the time nothing happened, and even when something did move the plot, I didn't care about it.
The Hotel Sasha stayed in was ridiculous, and I don't mean it in a good way.
I suppose some readers would find them funny, but to me they were all unprofessional and they made me angry more then a few times.
I still can't believe Sasha went along with all of it.
unfortunately, I wasn't a fan of hers, with all the faking and paying attention to other's opinions of her.
I didn't like Finn either. And also I couldn't ship them as a pair, as there were no chemistry between them whatsoever.
Overall, this was a miss for me and I don't think I'll be eagerly waiting for Kinsella's new releases. I'd rather re-read her backlist instead.
October 20, 2023
I’m sad to only give three stars as kinsella has always been an author I appreciate. Her shopaholic series has been a solace and a way to really step away from the world. Some of them have made me laugh so hard that people have stared at me!
The burnout starts out strong. I chuckled from the silliness of it all, and the crazy situation the MC got herself into. After a while though, the silliness just got silly and it wasn’t funny anymore. Also there were to many Ott moments, like when her boss visited. Would that happen in real life? Not in a million years! Also the love story didn’t feel captivating enough for me.
Fortunately I enjoyed myself in the beginning, so there’s that!
The burnout starts out strong. I chuckled from the silliness of it all, and the crazy situation the MC got herself into. After a while though, the silliness just got silly and it wasn’t funny anymore. Also there were to many Ott moments, like when her boss visited. Would that happen in real life? Not in a million years! Also the love story didn’t feel captivating enough for me.
Fortunately I enjoyed myself in the beginning, so there’s that!
January 15, 2024
Ok - I had to DNF it. It's very whiney feeling and I just really needed a 30+ woman to get her ish together and start taking control of her own life.
↑↑ Update - DNFed January 15th, 2024 ↑↑
Burnt-out girl meets burnt-out boy.. and grumpiness ensues. I feel like something that bugs me is the way that the main character allows herself to just be railroaded about things as simple as what kind of smoothie she wants?? Idk.. I'm not completely done with it yet so we'll see how I end up liking this. I've sped up my listening speed to help me get through.
JUST PICK SOMETHING AND DECIDE TO BE HAPPY WITH YOUR DECISION!!!!
THOUGHTS:
- Overall, the commentary on workplace balance is spot on... and if you're the type that takes your laptop home... DON'T!!! It's so incredibly unhealthy, and you deserve better!! (Especially if you're working for someone else...
- If you don't speak out about things in your life that are wrong - you're doing yourself a disservice. Boundaries and a healthy sense of goals etc are super important for not letting yourself become an actual doormat.
↑↑ Update - Started January 15th, 2024 ↑↑
Find Me On Instagram 🦋 || More Bookish Thoughts & Reviews Here 🖤
↑↑ Update - DNFed January 15th, 2024 ↑↑
Burnt-out girl meets burnt-out boy.. and grumpiness ensues. I feel like something that bugs me is the way that the main character allows herself to just be railroaded about things as simple as what kind of smoothie she wants?? Idk.. I'm not completely done with it yet so we'll see how I end up liking this. I've sped up my listening speed to help me get through.
JUST PICK SOMETHING AND DECIDE TO BE HAPPY WITH YOUR DECISION!!!!
THOUGHTS:
- Overall, the commentary on workplace balance is spot on... and if you're the type that takes your laptop home... DON'T!!! It's so incredibly unhealthy, and you deserve better!! (Especially if you're working for someone else...
- If you don't speak out about things in your life that are wrong - you're doing yourself a disservice. Boundaries and a healthy sense of goals etc are super important for not letting yourself become an actual doormat.
↑↑ Update - Started January 15th, 2024 ↑↑
Find Me On Instagram 🦋 || More Bookish Thoughts & Reviews Here 🖤
October 13, 2023
4 solid stars! I really enjoyed this one - Kinsella really shows why she’s the OG “Queen of Chick-Lit” here, this one gave me all the feels. I adored poor Sasha (the burned-out title MC), the seaside hotel in disrepair and it’s quirky staff & guests. The love interest, Finn, was just okay, but the secondary story about their childhood surf instructor Terry, now with dementia, was just so touching & heart-warming 🥲. There are also some really good takeaways from this one about priorities, boundaries & self-care.
October 22, 2023
By the time I FINALLY finished listening to "The Burnout" (12-hour audiobook), I was burnt out.
To Sophie Kinsella's credit, the first 15% of the book was well written and HOL(howl-out-loud) funny.
After that strong beginning, the pacing became uneven, Sophie Kinsella's signature witty banter disappeared, and the book dragged on and on and on.
IMHO, this 12-hour audiobook easily could have been an 8-hour audiobook.
Sophie Kinsella's most recent releases have disappointed this loyal Sophie Kinsella fan.
Sophie Kinsella set a very high bar with "The Undomestic Goddess" and "My Not-So-Perfect Life", my two favorite rom-coms of all time.
I will still continue to listen to Sophie Kinsella's future releases but will do so with trepidation and adjusted expectations.
2.5 stars, rounded up.
September 25, 2023
'I'm sweating through my shirt. My fingers are on fire. I have a million other urgent emails..., I do not have a sec'!
Sasha Worth has become completely and utterly burnt out at work and burnt out on life. She has hit the wall, quite literally. After being forced to take a break from work, she decides to recalibrate by holidaying in the old seaside town of her youth. It's off-season, but it's the beach. It's the sea, fresh air, space, and an old acquaintance she never met. Although he is totally off-putting and rude, they are drawn together trying to figure out just who is leaving mysterious messages on the beach. Just maybe, in solving the mystery, they'll finally realise that life is about living, loving, and sharing, 'No one remembers the wipe outs. They don't! People remember the triumphs'.
Neurotic and chaotic. So Sophie Kinsella. 'The Burnout' is a rom-com that verges on the hysterically ridiculous at times. It's the perfect, light-hearted vacation read, which will give you a giggle and not take much in return. That said, there are warm, fluffy undertones of love and kindness that leave a warmth within your heart.
Sasha Worth has become completely and utterly burnt out at work and burnt out on life. She has hit the wall, quite literally. After being forced to take a break from work, she decides to recalibrate by holidaying in the old seaside town of her youth. It's off-season, but it's the beach. It's the sea, fresh air, space, and an old acquaintance she never met. Although he is totally off-putting and rude, they are drawn together trying to figure out just who is leaving mysterious messages on the beach. Just maybe, in solving the mystery, they'll finally realise that life is about living, loving, and sharing, 'No one remembers the wipe outs. They don't! People remember the triumphs'.
Neurotic and chaotic. So Sophie Kinsella. 'The Burnout' is a rom-com that verges on the hysterically ridiculous at times. It's the perfect, light-hearted vacation read, which will give you a giggle and not take much in return. That said, there are warm, fluffy undertones of love and kindness that leave a warmth within your heart.
Want to read
June 16, 2023burnout? me too!!
December 29, 2023
Sophie Kinsella is a real hit-or-miss author for me. This one is a miss. Sasha is a weak dweeb who lets herself be picked-on and abused at work. So she takes some time off for relaxation. As dictated by her mother, who railroads her into a "healthy" break. So Sasha is stuck with kale smoothies she detests and is following a program that is silly on its face. And she does it all to appease, um, nobody because she is on a vacation at an empty resort where the only one she answers to is herself.
I think we're supposed to find humor in the shenanigans brought out by catering to the health nonsense of her mother. I just find it boring and weak. I suspect part of the chick lit bits of this will be about finding boundaries, but then again, maybe not. And I found I don't really care.
And it isn't helping that we get nothing about the supposed potential romance until more than a quarter in and as far as I made it (about a third), he's still just a distant jerk who mocks her. Not laugh. Mock. This is not attractive.
By the time the resort staff actually scraped up some organic kale and Sasha can't bring herself to have an actual breakfast for the second (third?) day in a row I just stopped caring any more about the setup, characters, and plot. So this goes on the Kinsella miss pile. With one star.
I think we're supposed to find humor in the shenanigans brought out by catering to the health nonsense of her mother. I just find it boring and weak. I suspect part of the chick lit bits of this will be about finding boundaries, but then again, maybe not. And I found I don't really care.
And it isn't helping that we get nothing about the supposed potential romance until more than a quarter in and as far as I made it (about a third), he's still just a distant jerk who mocks her. Not laugh. Mock. This is not attractive.
By the time the resort staff actually scraped up some organic kale and Sasha can't bring herself to have an actual breakfast for the second (third?) day in a row I just stopped caring any more about the setup, characters, and plot. So this goes on the Kinsella miss pile. With one star.
Read
March 25, 2024DNF at 50%
You might find it strange but I stopped because this book was a little too close to home. The blacking out at work and having to take time off - when I was diagnosed with POTS, I continually blacked out at work until I was forced to take sick leave. I continued to get more and more unwell and reading this just brought it all back. I’m still not over grieving the life I once thought I had.
You might find it strange but I stopped because this book was a little too close to home. The blacking out at work and having to take time off - when I was diagnosed with POTS, I continually blacked out at work until I was forced to take sick leave. I continued to get more and more unwell and reading this just brought it all back. I’m still not over grieving the life I once thought I had.
October 4, 2023
Yes for the audiobook! 🙌🏻
I loved this story! This book is for anyone who has felt burnt out from life! I loved the journey of Sasha and the way she was able to rebound after a tough work situation and find better balance in her life. And sweet Finn! Loved our MMC. The only thing I’d change about this book is alternating POV chapters with Finn. It would have been dun getting his perspective.
This book has romance, struggle, and so much heart. Yes yes yes!
I loved this story! This book is for anyone who has felt burnt out from life! I loved the journey of Sasha and the way she was able to rebound after a tough work situation and find better balance in her life. And sweet Finn! Loved our MMC. The only thing I’d change about this book is alternating POV chapters with Finn. It would have been dun getting his perspective.
This book has romance, struggle, and so much heart. Yes yes yes!
September 25, 2023
This book is laugh out loud funny, filled with plenty of heart, and wholly relatable.
After Sasha’s toxic workplace causes her mental health to take a turn for the worse, she goes out on some R&R in order to decompress and focus on herself. She chooses to go to Rilston, a small town brimming with nostalgia from her childhood summers and new friendships in the form of Finn, another guest staying there for burnout, and the hotel staff who were quirky and caring.
Sasha’s attempts at wellness go awry more times than once causing comical mishaps that I could see myself falling prey to. However, she finds herself healing through other means, whether it be in her budding friendship with Finn or learning to understand her own wants and desires.
I also have to mention any time Terry, the old surfing coach from her youth, makes an appearance. He was such a source of inspiration and each scene with him or about him made you feel happy and optimistic.
This was my second book by Kinsella and both times I found myself relating to the characters and circumstances. This was a great contemporary fiction, light on the romance and heavy on the self-reliance and friendships.
I received an advanced copy through Netgalley in return for an honest review.
After Sasha’s toxic workplace causes her mental health to take a turn for the worse, she goes out on some R&R in order to decompress and focus on herself. She chooses to go to Rilston, a small town brimming with nostalgia from her childhood summers and new friendships in the form of Finn, another guest staying there for burnout, and the hotel staff who were quirky and caring.
Sasha’s attempts at wellness go awry more times than once causing comical mishaps that I could see myself falling prey to. However, she finds herself healing through other means, whether it be in her budding friendship with Finn or learning to understand her own wants and desires.
I also have to mention any time Terry, the old surfing coach from her youth, makes an appearance. He was such a source of inspiration and each scene with him or about him made you feel happy and optimistic.
This was my second book by Kinsella and both times I found myself relating to the characters and circumstances. This was a great contemporary fiction, light on the romance and heavy on the self-reliance and friendships.
I received an advanced copy through Netgalley in return for an honest review.
August 28, 2023
Oops! Read this in one afternoon. I couldn't stop. Love!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
We all understand stress, especially workplace stress. The ability to just run away sometimes is a necessity when you know you need that healing to take place in your soul.
I think we all are going to be able to identify with the main character in this story. The lovely part is when she runs to a place from her past where she has wonderful memories. The journey to get to her last happy place is a humorous, crazy adventure with a great twist in the story.
Trying to get away from it all doesn’t always mean we can bury our heads in the sand like we want to. Most of the time reality is looming there with some weird events, wacky hotel employees, and strange accommodations.
There is frustration that you can’t do or get what you want, and even your crazy mother, who pretends to be your assistant, calls to order you disgusting smoothies every day. What’s not to love about that? And then to top it off, there’s another grumpy stressed-out guy disturbing your peace.
Kinsella slays it with her cranky conversations and growing interest between the two. I seriously could not stop reading this!
The story is a fun and wonderful journey into trying to escape reality yet finding your future. A story of finding your happiness and taking yet once more chance. A story of finding balance in a crazy stressful world.
With glorious depictions of nature, strong imagery of the past, and growing feelings of friendship and love, The Burnout is a fun ride of an escape that becomes a saving grace.
~~~~~~~~
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
* Full review - https://amidlifewife.com/the-burnout-...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
We all understand stress, especially workplace stress. The ability to just run away sometimes is a necessity when you know you need that healing to take place in your soul.
I think we all are going to be able to identify with the main character in this story. The lovely part is when she runs to a place from her past where she has wonderful memories. The journey to get to her last happy place is a humorous, crazy adventure with a great twist in the story.
Trying to get away from it all doesn’t always mean we can bury our heads in the sand like we want to. Most of the time reality is looming there with some weird events, wacky hotel employees, and strange accommodations.
There is frustration that you can’t do or get what you want, and even your crazy mother, who pretends to be your assistant, calls to order you disgusting smoothies every day. What’s not to love about that? And then to top it off, there’s another grumpy stressed-out guy disturbing your peace.
Kinsella slays it with her cranky conversations and growing interest between the two. I seriously could not stop reading this!
The story is a fun and wonderful journey into trying to escape reality yet finding your future. A story of finding your happiness and taking yet once more chance. A story of finding balance in a crazy stressful world.
With glorious depictions of nature, strong imagery of the past, and growing feelings of friendship and love, The Burnout is a fun ride of an escape that becomes a saving grace.
~~~~~~~~
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
* Full review - https://amidlifewife.com/the-burnout-...
October 6, 2023
Thanks to NetGalley and Dial Press for my ARC in exchange for my honest review. This book will be published October 10, 2023.
The first few chapters were laugh out loud funny. I loved it!
Then the next 80% was very boring. I really didn’t care about Sasha or Finn, the resort or their work-related burnout.
But then it picked up at about the 85%! mark with a scene that reminded me of Jerry McGuire, when Sasha’s exit interview goes viral. The rest of the book was fine.
At 416 pages this was just way too long and way too boring for me.
The first few chapters were laugh out loud funny. I loved it!
Then the next 80% was very boring. I really didn’t care about Sasha or Finn, the resort or their work-related burnout.
But then it picked up at about the 85%! mark with a scene that reminded me of Jerry McGuire, when Sasha’s exit interview goes viral. The rest of the book was fine.
At 416 pages this was just way too long and way too boring for me.
March 27, 2024
Normaal gesproken lees ik geen boeken in de genres feelgood, romantisch of chick-lits; maar dit boek vond ik verrassend leuk. Met name door de bizarre situaties waarin hoofdpersoon Sasha zich meermaals bevindt die erg grappig zijn beschreven.
Door de vlotte schrijfstijl heb ik me geen seconde verveeld en sommige dingen in het boek zijn voor mij wel herkenbaar. Zoals de bergen e-mails, het humeur die hoort bij een burn-out, het laten verslonzen van... alles op dat moment.
Conclusie: leuk boek, ook als je niet van het genre houdt. 3,5 ster maar naar boven afgerond kom ik op 4 uit.
Door de vlotte schrijfstijl heb ik me geen seconde verveeld en sommige dingen in het boek zijn voor mij wel herkenbaar. Zoals de bergen e-mails, het humeur die hoort bij een burn-out, het laten verslonzen van... alles op dat moment.
Conclusie: leuk boek, ook als je niet van het genre houdt. 3,5 ster maar naar boven afgerond kom ik op 4 uit.
November 29, 2023
4.5⭐️ Completely burnt out from work, Sasha heads to the seaside resort she loved as a child, in hopes it will rejuvenate her spirit and awaken long suppressed desires. Upon arrival, she realizes the once luxurious hotel her family could barely afford is now in shambles. And there in the beach hut beside her, is grump and fellow burnout, Finn.
Sophie Kinsella will forever remain an all time favorites and a big part of the reason I am such a voracious reader. Her early romcoms helped me to discover a love of reading and The Burnout reminded me of why I adore her writing. Her humor is among the best in the romance industry, and I often find myself straight up cackling during the comedy of error moments she often includes in her books.
Another thing I treasure about her books, are the incredible characters she creates that are always relatable, and easy to connect with. Sasha is no different. And Finn. Finn is yet another wonderful MMC, handsome on the outside and a bit scruffy on the inside. Her characters are the reason I find myself rereading her books time and time again. If you are looking for a comfort read during these harder times, this is the book for you.
ʀ ᴇ ᴀ ᴅ ɪ ғ ʏ ᴏ ᴜ ʟ ɪ ᴋ ᴇ :
•British romcoms
•women’s fiction
•meet cutes
•forced proximity
•laugh out loud moments
•coastal setting
Thank you Random House and PRH Audio for my gifted copies.
Sophie Kinsella will forever remain an all time favorites and a big part of the reason I am such a voracious reader. Her early romcoms helped me to discover a love of reading and The Burnout reminded me of why I adore her writing. Her humor is among the best in the romance industry, and I often find myself straight up cackling during the comedy of error moments she often includes in her books.
Another thing I treasure about her books, are the incredible characters she creates that are always relatable, and easy to connect with. Sasha is no different. And Finn. Finn is yet another wonderful MMC, handsome on the outside and a bit scruffy on the inside. Her characters are the reason I find myself rereading her books time and time again. If you are looking for a comfort read during these harder times, this is the book for you.
ʀ ᴇ ᴀ ᴅ ɪ ғ ʏ ᴏ ᴜ ʟ ɪ ᴋ ᴇ :
•British romcoms
•women’s fiction
•meet cutes
•forced proximity
•laugh out loud moments
•coastal setting
Thank you Random House and PRH Audio for my gifted copies.
October 3, 2023
I enjoyed this read. At first I wasnt sure, but it truly picks up after a bit and kept my interest. The burnout feeling is also highly relateable. Loved the whole love interest thing. Main character was relatable. The only reason I took off a star was due to the ending, it felt rushed and abrupt. I was left with more questions than answers. Overall this was an easy, enjoyable read.
I received this ARC from NetGalley to read/review. All of the statements above are my true opinions after fully reading this book.
I received this ARC from NetGalley to read/review. All of the statements above are my true opinions after fully reading this book.
June 9, 2024
Trama/Plot ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Personaggi/Characters ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Stile/Style ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Mi aspettavo un romance leggero, invece è un romanzo che affronta temi anche scottanti, come la depressione, l'esaurimento, i problemi legati all'invecchiare, il tutto con uno stile comunque tipico della Kinsella, per niente pesante e angosciante, visti i temi. Ottimi i personaggi, una bella carrellata di gente "stramba", un po' sopra le righe e inverosimile, a cui non puoi non affezionarti e voler bene.
***
I was expecting a light romance, but I've found that is a novel that also addresses burning issues, such as depression, exhaustion, problems related to growing old, all of them in the typical Kinsella's styles, not at all heavy and distressing, given the themes. The characters are excellent, a nice collection of "weird" people, a little over the top and unlikely, who you can't help but become fond of and love.
Personaggi/Characters ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Stile/Style ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Mi aspettavo un romance leggero, invece è un romanzo che affronta temi anche scottanti, come la depressione, l'esaurimento, i problemi legati all'invecchiare, il tutto con uno stile comunque tipico della Kinsella, per niente pesante e angosciante, visti i temi. Ottimi i personaggi, una bella carrellata di gente "stramba", un po' sopra le righe e inverosimile, a cui non puoi non affezionarti e voler bene.
***
I was expecting a light romance, but I've found that is a novel that also addresses burning issues, such as depression, exhaustion, problems related to growing old, all of them in the typical Kinsella's styles, not at all heavy and distressing, given the themes. The characters are excellent, a nice collection of "weird" people, a little over the top and unlikely, who you can't help but become fond of and love.
November 24, 2023
eh
I'm not sure how to feel about this. It definitely wasn't what I expected it to be.
It was like watching a movie about someone's life, watching them go through their daily tasks, except Sasha is on a mini vacation, and she kind of met a guy who she's slowly getting to know.
Honestly, it lacked romance but also it was very slow-burn, with HEA.
Overall it wasn't bad. Cute, but not for me.
_________________________________
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I'm not sure how to feel about this. It definitely wasn't what I expected it to be.
It was like watching a movie about someone's life, watching them go through their daily tasks, except Sasha is on a mini vacation, and she kind of met a guy who she's slowly getting to know.
Honestly, it lacked romance but also it was very slow-burn, with HEA.
Overall it wasn't bad. Cute, but not for me.
_________________________________
Blog ಇ StoryGraph ಇ Instagram ಇ Twitter ಇ Facebook
April 19, 2024
Sasha’s marketing job at a buzzy startup is so stressful that she (literally) runs away from work…and directly into a brick wall. Cue three weeks of mental health leave, which she decides to spend at a luxury resort in the beach town she visited as a child. Only the resort is now crumbling and decrepit, and the only other guest is a loathsome grump. Because this is a Sophie Kinsella book, hilarious hijinks - and a love story - follow.
This book was frothy fun with a great cast of eccentric characters and an overall hopeful message. It will appeal to fans of Kinsella’s other books, especially The Undomestic Goddess and My (Not-So) Perfect Life.
This book was frothy fun with a great cast of eccentric characters and an overall hopeful message. It will appeal to fans of Kinsella’s other books, especially The Undomestic Goddess and My (Not-So) Perfect Life.
July 26, 2023
This book is delightful. I love Sophie Kinsella for how relatable she makes her characters. Sasha, in the Burnout, is the most relatable yet. I think many mom's and working women will relate. Finn is a burnt out man who is just as fed up. Cue the enemies to lovers trope but this book is more than that. I actually found it thought provoking and extremely relatable. I'd love to give 5 stars but I did feel at a couple points it drug on. It was delightful though.
October 19, 2023
DNF @ 52% (Audiobook).
There’s a whole lot of nothing happening. It started off cute and just draaaags. The romance doesn’t even start until nearly 40% into the book. This book is just too darn boring to be this long. Sorry 😞
There’s a whole lot of nothing happening. It started off cute and just draaaags. The romance doesn’t even start until nearly 40% into the book. This book is just too darn boring to be this long. Sorry 😞
April 13, 2024
The Burnout follows Sasha, who works for a tech company, has been pushed past the edge, and doesn’t care about the corporate joyfulness program. When she asks to speak with someone from the executive team and her request denied, she decides she’s really had it.
For a much needed break and change of scenery, Sasha finds herself revisiting a coastal vacation destination from her childhood, after many years away. The resort is fairly vacant as it’s currently off-season but there are a few other guests, including a grumpy yet attractive guy, Finn.
The two have some interactions and when messages start appearing on the beach, they try to parse together who they’re for and what their meaning is. Along the way, Sasha and Finn learn more about each other, realizing they’re both beyond burnt out and have more in common than they initially thought.
It’s been awhile since I’ve read a Sophie Kinsella book and what I appreciate about her stories is that I know what I’m getting — A romcom with imperfect but likable, human characters and some humor — 3.5 stars
For a much needed break and change of scenery, Sasha finds herself revisiting a coastal vacation destination from her childhood, after many years away. The resort is fairly vacant as it’s currently off-season but there are a few other guests, including a grumpy yet attractive guy, Finn.
The two have some interactions and when messages start appearing on the beach, they try to parse together who they’re for and what their meaning is. Along the way, Sasha and Finn learn more about each other, realizing they’re both beyond burnt out and have more in common than they initially thought.
It’s been awhile since I’ve read a Sophie Kinsella book and what I appreciate about her stories is that I know what I’m getting — A romcom with imperfect but likable, human characters and some humor — 3.5 stars
February 8, 2024
DNF
Just my out of luck having many DNF in 2024. And we still in February. It is frustrating situation.
I used to like Miss Kinsella' book.
2 stars
Just my out of luck having many DNF in 2024. And we still in February. It is frustrating situation.
I used to like Miss Kinsella' book.
2 stars
Shelved as 'don-t-count'
September 15, 2023Inane joyless work environment?
Check.
Missing friends?
Check.
Boring sex?
Check.
Meeting handsome stranger at the seaside resort?
100% wish fulfillment fantasy.
Will I read my first Sophie Kinsella ever?
Probably not, because I'm sure the ending needs 100% more tropical fish.
Check.
Missing friends?
Check.
Boring sex?
Check.
Meeting handsome stranger at the seaside resort?
100% wish fulfillment fantasy.
Will I read my first Sophie Kinsella ever?
Probably not, because I'm sure the ending needs 100% more tropical fish.
August 21, 2023
The Burnout is at times laugh out loud funny! The characters (especially the side characters like the hotel staff) are so quirky, it’s easy to find them so lovable. Sasha is so burnt out it’s almost driving her mad, and she acts so outrageous it’s laughable. Kinsella puts into words how so many people are feeling as of late - burnt out from her job and too mentally/physically exhausted to do anything about it after work! It was sooo relatable.
I feel like this book is less of a romance and more of a contemporary take on mental health / taking care of oneself with a romantic air to it? But I liked the two main characters together! Both Sasha and Finn have things to work out on their own and it’s nice seeing them complement each other without giving up parts of themselves for the sake of being together. Again, I really feel like the romance was more of a side plot (on top of being a slow burn), which was something I wasn’t expecting walking into this book based on the description.
There’s also a small mystery element to this book?? Which was very unexpected hahaha, but not unnecessarily unwelcome! I just feel like on top of the drama going on in both of Sasha’s and Finn’s respective lives, adding that tinge of mystery to the book felt over the top. But it added a lot of quirk to this contemporary romance. I think that bit probably knocked this book down a star, but I don’t regret reading this at all. It had a lot of wise words to say about living life to the fullest and making sure you’re prioritizing your own well-being. Overall, I think the characters were funny enough and I’ll definitely look into Sophia Kinsella’s other books!
Thanks so much to NetGalley and Random House for the e-arc in exchange for an honest review!
I feel like this book is less of a romance and more of a contemporary take on mental health / taking care of oneself with a romantic air to it? But I liked the two main characters together! Both Sasha and Finn have things to work out on their own and it’s nice seeing them complement each other without giving up parts of themselves for the sake of being together. Again, I really feel like the romance was more of a side plot (on top of being a slow burn), which was something I wasn’t expecting walking into this book based on the description.
There’s also a small mystery element to this book?? Which was very unexpected hahaha, but not unnecessarily unwelcome! I just feel like on top of the drama going on in both of Sasha’s and Finn’s respective lives, adding that tinge of mystery to the book felt over the top. But it added a lot of quirk to this contemporary romance. I think that bit probably knocked this book down a star, but I don’t regret reading this at all. It had a lot of wise words to say about living life to the fullest and making sure you’re prioritizing your own well-being. Overall, I think the characters were funny enough and I’ll definitely look into Sophia Kinsella’s other books!
Thanks so much to NetGalley and Random House for the e-arc in exchange for an honest review!
October 12, 2023
Sophie did it again. I knew from the moment Sasha tries to escape real life by joining a convent and gets chased by nuns instead that I was going to love this rom-com.
July 4, 2024
She had me at the title.
Probably true of a lot of you, too. We’ve been doing whatever for umpteen years, overworked / underappreciated, swamped at all times, frustrated by upper / middle management. That’s the scenario for Sasha Worth, marketing agent at a London tech start-up. She loses it in a funny little way and is sent on a mental health holiday to her favorite childhood getaway: the Rilston.
But it’s February, and the Rilston has seen better days. And in the midst of her mental and physical cleanse at this nearly abandoned resort, one handsome but troubled man gets in her way: Finn, himself ostracized from work due to unruly behavior. They try to avoid each other, but soon enough they have no choice but to fight for the meditation rock while trying to stay Zen and recharged.
Sasha’s relatable for the reasons listed above. She’s also smart, funny, and clever. Her narrative is good: down-to-earth but smart. Her flaws make her funny and human. I also liked her friends and mum, and Finn complements her well. Kinsella does well to make the hotel staff and surf proprietors come to life, too. They’re vibrant, enjoyable, likeable. I liked the underdog story that is the Rilston: rundown but hopeful for former glory (or a sale).
Sasha also shares some nice memories of the surfing teacher she had as a kid, memories coincidentally shared by Finn. It’s a metaphor for staying focused on what’s important. You can look at this any way you want, even cynically, but if you keep it positive it’ll make you smile.
Rom-com books tend toward the “Mega Happy Ending” a la Wayne’s World, and this is no exception. (And I have no qualms about this resembling the spoiler, but I’ll spare you the details.) That said, the realizations and rewards happen earlier in this book than I’d have wanted. I was seeking more tension at the 3/4 mark, but many things had been resolved, making the last 80 pages or so something of a victory lap. However, why not have things work out as Sasha would’ve wanted? After all, she’s smart and motivated, so she can make good stuff happen for herself. Again, look at this pessimistically if you must, but my limited experience with the rom-com genre tells me that’s not the way to go.
An aside: choosing the latest release of a modern-lit titan like Kinsella is like saying Steel Wheels is the signature Rolling Stones. Probably should go back to Confessions of a Shopaholic, but shopping makes me cranky. What do you think?
Finally, I wish only the best for the author in her battle with cancer. Hasn’t seemed to stop her from cranking out hit after hit. Please join me in hoping for her good health.
Probably true of a lot of you, too. We’ve been doing whatever for umpteen years, overworked / underappreciated, swamped at all times, frustrated by upper / middle management. That’s the scenario for Sasha Worth, marketing agent at a London tech start-up. She loses it in a funny little way and is sent on a mental health holiday to her favorite childhood getaway: the Rilston.
But it’s February, and the Rilston has seen better days. And in the midst of her mental and physical cleanse at this nearly abandoned resort, one handsome but troubled man gets in her way: Finn, himself ostracized from work due to unruly behavior. They try to avoid each other, but soon enough they have no choice but to fight for the meditation rock while trying to stay Zen and recharged.
Sasha’s relatable for the reasons listed above. She’s also smart, funny, and clever. Her narrative is good: down-to-earth but smart. Her flaws make her funny and human. I also liked her friends and mum, and Finn complements her well. Kinsella does well to make the hotel staff and surf proprietors come to life, too. They’re vibrant, enjoyable, likeable. I liked the underdog story that is the Rilston: rundown but hopeful for former glory (or a sale).
Sasha also shares some nice memories of the surfing teacher she had as a kid, memories coincidentally shared by Finn. It’s a metaphor for staying focused on what’s important. You can look at this any way you want, even cynically, but if you keep it positive it’ll make you smile.
Rom-com books tend toward the “Mega Happy Ending” a la Wayne’s World, and this is no exception. (And I have no qualms about this resembling the spoiler, but I’ll spare you the details.) That said, the realizations and rewards happen earlier in this book than I’d have wanted. I was seeking more tension at the 3/4 mark, but many things had been resolved, making the last 80 pages or so something of a victory lap. However, why not have things work out as Sasha would’ve wanted? After all, she’s smart and motivated, so she can make good stuff happen for herself. Again, look at this pessimistically if you must, but my limited experience with the rom-com genre tells me that’s not the way to go.
An aside: choosing the latest release of a modern-lit titan like Kinsella is like saying Steel Wheels is the signature Rolling Stones. Probably should go back to Confessions of a Shopaholic, but shopping makes me cranky. What do you think?
Finally, I wish only the best for the author in her battle with cancer. Hasn’t seemed to stop her from cranking out hit after hit. Please join me in hoping for her good health.
October 10, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ I've said it before and I'll say it again: I love love love Sophie Kinsella!
The Burnout was such a fun read. I absolutely adored the storyline, the setting, the characters, and the sweet ending. I am all for books about women in their 30s that are still figuring out their lives.
There's absolutely nothing wrong with someone because they aren't married by 28. You can be 30 years old and still not know what you want to do when you grow up. You can love your career, but still feel incredibly burnt out. This book was incredibly refreshing and so much fun but still heartfelt and validating.
Kinsella has been writing these charming, plucky heroines for years (and I’ve been reading about them since I was in high school) but they somehow still feel fresh and entertaining. I loved absolutely everything about this book and am genuinely sad that it is over.
🎧highly, highly, highly recommend the audiobook! The voice actor was absolutely perfect. Thank you to PRHAudio for the complimentary listen.
The Burnout was such a fun read. I absolutely adored the storyline, the setting, the characters, and the sweet ending. I am all for books about women in their 30s that are still figuring out their lives.
There's absolutely nothing wrong with someone because they aren't married by 28. You can be 30 years old and still not know what you want to do when you grow up. You can love your career, but still feel incredibly burnt out. This book was incredibly refreshing and so much fun but still heartfelt and validating.
Kinsella has been writing these charming, plucky heroines for years (and I’ve been reading about them since I was in high school) but they somehow still feel fresh and entertaining. I loved absolutely everything about this book and am genuinely sad that it is over.
🎧highly, highly, highly recommend the audiobook! The voice actor was absolutely perfect. Thank you to PRHAudio for the complimentary listen.
October 4, 2023
I was a little out of my element here, because I usually don’t enjoy cheesy romances. I wanted to get out of my comfort zone, so I requested an ARC, not expecting my request to get approved—but it did. I’m quite glad that it was, because this book surpassed my expectations and made me realize that expanding my literary horizons was actually a good thing for once. I enjoyed this book, so much more than I thought I would.
Firstly, I thought that the characters were really realistic; they were relatable enough to make me believe it as a story but quirky enough to be memorable. I especially really liked the way that the main character was written in this book; Sasha was a hilariously relatable woman that I found myself looking up to by the end of the novel. I think most people have been in her shoes before; feeling burned out because of their work and not knowing how to fix it. Her little outbursts and reactions were endearing and made me smile, and I can totally understand why Finn fell for her so quickly. Unfortunately, a lot of romance novels I’ve attempted to enjoy stray from this trope, and make their female leads unbearable, usually due to suffering from a bad case of internalized misogyny—usually a projection from the author. It’s a refreshing thing to see a funny and original character that didn’t make me want to rip out my own hair. The same goes for Finn—nothing angers me more than seeing women romanticize toxic behavior that’s displayed in many romance novels. I’m pleased to report that Finn is a wonderful example of how one can write about an introverted/grumpy man without making him irrevocably toxic and nasty. I liked seeing him warm up to Sasha and change the audience’s perspective on him.
The side characters were wonderful as well, which I appreciated. Oftentimes side characters are treated badly and are underdeveloped and badly written, which deteriorates the entire story. Here, the side characters enhance and finesse the story. Sasha’s family felt very real and very sweet, as did her co-workers (mostly real rather than sweet for her co-workers). The characters at the Rilston had louder personalities, more of a caricature, but still realistic and lovely. I found myself smiling at the antics they got up to at times.
I have to say that the characters were the best part of this book. The plot itself was great in the beginning, but it fell off towards the middle and it lost me at the end. That’s why my rating dropped to three stars; prior to that I was hoping for a new five star read, and a romance at that!
I think that the worst part was the romance—which is kind of detrimental, since this is a romance book. I was pleased when Sasha and Finn parted as friends, and thoroughly disappointed when there was a time skip and they seemed to be forced together romantically in the last twenty pages or so. It felt rushed and fake. The whole thing about Sasha obsessing over his social media and his ex girlfriend was also kind of unnecessary and a bit weird too, though it was relatable to an extent. It didn’t really have an impact on the ending, so it just didn’t seem necessary.
Though this was an issue, everything else about the book was so redeeming that I couldn’t give it a bad rating in the end. As much as I dislike the ending and the romance, it was still an enjoyable read. The wording and imagery was beautiful, and it felt very realistic and nostalgic. I love when stories are told so respectfully and in such detail that I can picture it in my head, and as someone who tends to think on words rather than images this is very important to me.
In the end, I’m very glad that I chose to request this ARC, and I was very honored to read it. This makes me want to expand further and read more romance, something that no other recently read romance book has made me want to actively do. And lastly, as a girl who’s currently burned out from school already, I again have to commend the characterization in Sasha—I can only hope to solve my writer’s block and mental state half as well as she did.
Thank you to NetGalley, Random House Publishing, and Sophie Kinsella for the ARC!
Firstly, I thought that the characters were really realistic; they were relatable enough to make me believe it as a story but quirky enough to be memorable. I especially really liked the way that the main character was written in this book; Sasha was a hilariously relatable woman that I found myself looking up to by the end of the novel. I think most people have been in her shoes before; feeling burned out because of their work and not knowing how to fix it. Her little outbursts and reactions were endearing and made me smile, and I can totally understand why Finn fell for her so quickly. Unfortunately, a lot of romance novels I’ve attempted to enjoy stray from this trope, and make their female leads unbearable, usually due to suffering from a bad case of internalized misogyny—usually a projection from the author. It’s a refreshing thing to see a funny and original character that didn’t make me want to rip out my own hair. The same goes for Finn—nothing angers me more than seeing women romanticize toxic behavior that’s displayed in many romance novels. I’m pleased to report that Finn is a wonderful example of how one can write about an introverted/grumpy man without making him irrevocably toxic and nasty. I liked seeing him warm up to Sasha and change the audience’s perspective on him.
The side characters were wonderful as well, which I appreciated. Oftentimes side characters are treated badly and are underdeveloped and badly written, which deteriorates the entire story. Here, the side characters enhance and finesse the story. Sasha’s family felt very real and very sweet, as did her co-workers (mostly real rather than sweet for her co-workers). The characters at the Rilston had louder personalities, more of a caricature, but still realistic and lovely. I found myself smiling at the antics they got up to at times.
I have to say that the characters were the best part of this book. The plot itself was great in the beginning, but it fell off towards the middle and it lost me at the end. That’s why my rating dropped to three stars; prior to that I was hoping for a new five star read, and a romance at that!
I think that the worst part was the romance—which is kind of detrimental, since this is a romance book. I was pleased when Sasha and Finn parted as friends, and thoroughly disappointed when there was a time skip and they seemed to be forced together romantically in the last twenty pages or so. It felt rushed and fake. The whole thing about Sasha obsessing over his social media and his ex girlfriend was also kind of unnecessary and a bit weird too, though it was relatable to an extent. It didn’t really have an impact on the ending, so it just didn’t seem necessary.
Though this was an issue, everything else about the book was so redeeming that I couldn’t give it a bad rating in the end. As much as I dislike the ending and the romance, it was still an enjoyable read. The wording and imagery was beautiful, and it felt very realistic and nostalgic. I love when stories are told so respectfully and in such detail that I can picture it in my head, and as someone who tends to think on words rather than images this is very important to me.
In the end, I’m very glad that I chose to request this ARC, and I was very honored to read it. This makes me want to expand further and read more romance, something that no other recently read romance book has made me want to actively do. And lastly, as a girl who’s currently burned out from school already, I again have to commend the characterization in Sasha—I can only hope to solve my writer’s block and mental state half as well as she did.
Thank you to NetGalley, Random House Publishing, and Sophie Kinsella for the ARC!
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