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Elephant and Castle
If only there was a guidebook on how to land the London boy of your dreams…
Nora Shrapsan is literally writing the book on London, and she’s not going to let fantasies about her sexy British ex-boyfriend break her stride. So what if she has been reunited with semi-famous rock star Hugh Jeffries, and their chemistry is still palpable? He’s engaged, and Nora needs to focus on…anything besides Hugh’s lips.
Julian Rhodes is Hugh’s best mate, and his secret feelings for Nora are one thing that won’t stay in the past. When a desperate Nora begs him to help her navigate London, Julian has to say yes—strictly to keep her from getting fired, of course. Surely, they can go to murder tours, magic shows, and museums without any feelings getting in the way. No problem.
But the more time Nora and Julian spend together, the less Nora finds herself thinking of Hugh. Maybe her second-chance romance didn’t go according to plan, but that doesn’t mean Nora could ever fall for her ex’s best friend, right?
Nora Shrapsan is literally writing the book on London, and she’s not going to let fantasies about her sexy British ex-boyfriend break her stride. So what if she has been reunited with semi-famous rock star Hugh Jeffries, and their chemistry is still palpable? He’s engaged, and Nora needs to focus on…anything besides Hugh’s lips.
Julian Rhodes is Hugh’s best mate, and his secret feelings for Nora are one thing that won’t stay in the past. When a desperate Nora begs him to help her navigate London, Julian has to say yes—strictly to keep her from getting fired, of course. Surely, they can go to murder tours, magic shows, and museums without any feelings getting in the way. No problem.
But the more time Nora and Julian spend together, the less Nora finds herself thinking of Hugh. Maybe her second-chance romance didn’t go according to plan, but that doesn’t mean Nora could ever fall for her ex’s best friend, right?
298 pages, Paperback
Published May 30, 2024
3 people are currently reading
1767 people want to read
About the author
Hannah Ledford
2 books13 followersHannah Ledford is a romance novelist with a PhD in English. She loves travel, giant sweaters, and making up bedtime stories about Bigfoot in space. She’s lived many different places, including a tiny flat on Tower Bridge Road. Elephant and Castle is her first novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
May 13, 2024
my review on instagram
At 19, Nora spent a summer in London where she met Hugh, her first everything. When she had to go back to New York though, she spent a lot of time thinking about how great her time with Hugh was, and how great their love story would have been if only she had stayed.
Now, seven years later, Nora goes back to London for work, and finds out her ex is now a well known rock star who wrote a very famous song about her, and who's now engaged with someone else. Nora needs to focus on her job though, she's writing a book on London and she finds herself navigating the city with Hugh's best friends, Julian, who has been in love with Nora since the first time he ever saw her, seven years before.
Hugh, has been thinking a lot about Nora in the past seven years. Yes, he wrote a song about her that made him known in the music industry, but that was it. He's engaged to Rose, he loves her. He wouldn't jeopardise his relationship for a woman who left him broken when she had to go back home. He no longer feels such intense feelings to Nora. He shouldn't.
Surely, nothing will go wrong, right? Hugh is happily engaged to his fiancée. Julian will keep seing Nora as his best friend's ex, the most important relationship he's ever had before meeting his fiancée. Nora will keep pining for her second-chance romance with her ex. She spending a lot of time with Julian, but she won't be falling for her ex's best friend. He's just helping her for her book right. Right?
To find out how it develops, make sure to read Elephant and Castle when it comes out, on May 28th. You won't regret reading about Nora struggling in this love triangle. I couldn't help myself rooting for Julian, he's the sweetest guy, who knows if I supported the right man, though. Because, how could Nora not fall in love again with her ex, a known musician, when the other choice is a professor who overthinks about everything?
Thank you NetGalley and City Owl press for sending me the eARC for an honest review
At 19, Nora spent a summer in London where she met Hugh, her first everything. When she had to go back to New York though, she spent a lot of time thinking about how great her time with Hugh was, and how great their love story would have been if only she had stayed.
Now, seven years later, Nora goes back to London for work, and finds out her ex is now a well known rock star who wrote a very famous song about her, and who's now engaged with someone else. Nora needs to focus on her job though, she's writing a book on London and she finds herself navigating the city with Hugh's best friends, Julian, who has been in love with Nora since the first time he ever saw her, seven years before.
Hugh, has been thinking a lot about Nora in the past seven years. Yes, he wrote a song about her that made him known in the music industry, but that was it. He's engaged to Rose, he loves her. He wouldn't jeopardise his relationship for a woman who left him broken when she had to go back home. He no longer feels such intense feelings to Nora. He shouldn't.
Surely, nothing will go wrong, right? Hugh is happily engaged to his fiancée. Julian will keep seing Nora as his best friend's ex, the most important relationship he's ever had before meeting his fiancée. Nora will keep pining for her second-chance romance with her ex. She spending a lot of time with Julian, but she won't be falling for her ex's best friend. He's just helping her for her book right. Right?
To find out how it develops, make sure to read Elephant and Castle when it comes out, on May 28th. You won't regret reading about Nora struggling in this love triangle. I couldn't help myself rooting for Julian, he's the sweetest guy, who knows if I supported the right man, though. Because, how could Nora not fall in love again with her ex, a known musician, when the other choice is a professor who overthinks about everything?
Thank you NetGalley and City Owl press for sending me the eARC for an honest review
July 30, 2024
What a gorgeous story written in such a beautiful way! From the first sentence, I knew I was going to love this book. The characterization is so strong among the three main POVs and the minor characters all jump off the page. Such a delightful read from beginning to end.
When American girl Nora returns to London for work, she finds herself surrounded by her old group of friends, including her very first love, Hugh. Now that she is back in this place, and seeing Hugh face to face, she can't help but wonder if things could work out between them. But some years have passed and everything is different. Hugh is engaged to a wonderful woman and Nora can't help but notice how much fun she has when she is with Hugh's best friend, Julian--not to mention how handsome Julian looks when he smiles...
This story was cleverly crafted and was truly brilliant. The London setting felt authentic and, as an American girl myself, I related to the way everything was viewed through Nora's eyes. The writing is fast paced, fun, and funny. More than once I caught myself laughing out loud (when I wasn't rereading lines in my own version of a British accent). Would read another book by this author in a heartbeat!
When American girl Nora returns to London for work, she finds herself surrounded by her old group of friends, including her very first love, Hugh. Now that she is back in this place, and seeing Hugh face to face, she can't help but wonder if things could work out between them. But some years have passed and everything is different. Hugh is engaged to a wonderful woman and Nora can't help but notice how much fun she has when she is with Hugh's best friend, Julian--not to mention how handsome Julian looks when he smiles...
This story was cleverly crafted and was truly brilliant. The London setting felt authentic and, as an American girl myself, I related to the way everything was viewed through Nora's eyes. The writing is fast paced, fun, and funny. More than once I caught myself laughing out loud (when I wasn't rereading lines in my own version of a British accent). Would read another book by this author in a heartbeat!
July 24, 2024
Elephant and Castle is such a cute story! It is a little spin-off of a second-chance romance. I loved quirky, fun Nora and the quiet, nerdy Julian. The two explored London while Nora was writing for a travel book and had lots of fun getting to know each other better. It definitely made me want to tour the streets of London with a Julian of my own
Thank you, NetGalley and City Owl Press, for an advanced readers copy of Elephant and Castle in exchange for an honest review. I enjoyed it!
Thank you, NetGalley and City Owl Press, for an advanced readers copy of Elephant and Castle in exchange for an honest review. I enjoyed it!
June 1, 2024
Ever wonder if you should reconnect with the boy you loved at 19?
That's what Nora, an American that spent her late teens in London is considering at the beginning of this book.
She reminisces on her time with Hugh- the London boy from her teenage time abroad.
Now 26, she finds herself in London again. Thinking she will pick right up where she left off, she finds navigating the city and her love life a little more difficult than she envisioned.
I loved:
Second chance rom com- though the love interest may not be as Nora or the reader expected.
This authors voice- funny, like REALLY funny.
Light spice- just enough that you wouldn't feel like a weirdo for suggesting this book to your aunt or co worker.
The characters- well written, spunky lead and all characters feel real and honest.
I received this as a Kindle ARC giveaway from Goodreads, thanks to the author and City Owl Press for the chance to read and review.
That's what Nora, an American that spent her late teens in London is considering at the beginning of this book.
She reminisces on her time with Hugh- the London boy from her teenage time abroad.
Now 26, she finds herself in London again. Thinking she will pick right up where she left off, she finds navigating the city and her love life a little more difficult than she envisioned.
I loved:
Second chance rom com- though the love interest may not be as Nora or the reader expected.
This authors voice- funny, like REALLY funny.
Light spice- just enough that you wouldn't feel like a weirdo for suggesting this book to your aunt or co worker.
The characters- well written, spunky lead and all characters feel real and honest.
I received this as a Kindle ARC giveaway from Goodreads, thanks to the author and City Owl Press for the chance to read and review.
June 1, 2024
Thank you Love book tours for gifting me a copy of Elephant and castle in exchange for an honest review
✨RATINGS✨
✨✨✨✨✨/5
🌶️/5
✨REVIEW✨
This was an adorable read! I really loved how sassy Nora was and I also really liked Julian!
This was such a fun read and I really liked all their cute moments together. At the start of the book I thought this was gonna be a second chance romance butttt it’s actually an ex boyfriends best friend read which was even better.
I’ve never read a book about an ex boyfriends best friends but let me tell you? If they are like this than I think I found another favourite trope.
Some moments had me laughing with how funny it is and it’s definitely made me want to go into London and go do the Jack the Ripper pub tour 😏
The plot was also really good! I loved how it all came together and the ending was so cute. I love happy endings! Definitely check this out if your looking for a cute romance 😂
✨RATINGS✨
✨✨✨✨✨/5
🌶️/5
✨REVIEW✨
This was an adorable read! I really loved how sassy Nora was and I also really liked Julian!
This was such a fun read and I really liked all their cute moments together. At the start of the book I thought this was gonna be a second chance romance butttt it’s actually an ex boyfriends best friend read which was even better.
I’ve never read a book about an ex boyfriends best friends but let me tell you? If they are like this than I think I found another favourite trope.
Some moments had me laughing with how funny it is and it’s definitely made me want to go into London and go do the Jack the Ripper pub tour 😏
The plot was also really good! I loved how it all came together and the ending was so cute. I love happy endings! Definitely check this out if your looking for a cute romance 😂
June 4, 2024
That was a lot of fun. It’s cute, sweet with a little spice, and just so stinking enjoyable. There’s a bit of a second chance feeling about this story, but more along the lines of being a chance with the one it should have been rather than that chance with the one that got away. I both loved and hated the slow burn between Nora and Julian. It gave them lots of time to come to terms with their feelings, but it also drove me a bit batty that I had to wait that long for them to realize what they had between them. I don’t know what the author has in the works for us next, but I definitely want to check it out.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Booksprout.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Booksprout.
September 6, 2024
The perfect easy read for a romance-loving reader! Charming characters and engaging main and side plot made this debut novel so fun to read!
May 4, 2024
***ARC REVIEW***
Book: Elephant and Castle
Author: Hannah Ledford
Rate: 4 🌟
~Who knew that you would find love by going to London!!! This was a good read, perfect now for the summer. But let’s just say what a crazy love triangle Nora had there! Who will Nora choose? Her old first love or the new one that is brewing? Julian always had some feelings for Nora but he never let her know all because of his best friend Hugh!!! But does Hugh want to end his current relationship he has to go back to his old love? So many emotions that need to come out! They will need to have these feelings answered! Want to know what happens?? Well, you will need to read it to find out!!!!
Book: Elephant and Castle
Author: Hannah Ledford
Rate: 4 🌟
~Who knew that you would find love by going to London!!! This was a good read, perfect now for the summer. But let’s just say what a crazy love triangle Nora had there! Who will Nora choose? Her old first love or the new one that is brewing? Julian always had some feelings for Nora but he never let her know all because of his best friend Hugh!!! But does Hugh want to end his current relationship he has to go back to his old love? So many emotions that need to come out! They will need to have these feelings answered! Want to know what happens?? Well, you will need to read it to find out!!!!
July 28, 2024
This book was provided to me for free through the Goodreads Giveaway program.
I am a sucker for whimsical book covers and titles. This one did not disappoint. It was a delightful read. The characters were likable but frustrating at times. It was nicely paced with well placed humor. I loved Nora's mother, and Darcy reminded me of Rebecca from Ted Lasso. All-in-all, a very good debut novel. I look forward to reading more by Hannah Ledford in the future.
I am a sucker for whimsical book covers and titles. This one did not disappoint. It was a delightful read. The characters were likable but frustrating at times. It was nicely paced with well placed humor. I loved Nora's mother, and Darcy reminded me of Rebecca from Ted Lasso. All-in-all, a very good debut novel. I look forward to reading more by Hannah Ledford in the future.
June 10, 2024
What a lovely read! At first you think it’s going to be a second chance romance, but turns out it’s an exes best friend!
Nora leaves London and goes back to London for a job and finds out that her ex, Hugh, who she had a fling with at 19, is now in a famous band and also engaged!! She wonders what could have been with Hugh. She goes to a gig in the pub they play at and she meets him and his friend Julian again.
She has to review places in London for her job and she takes Hugh’s best friend Julian along, just as friends. The more she spends time with him, the more she realises she is falling for Julian!
I loved Nora as a character, she is funny and relatable. It’s emotional at times, as her mum is struggling with cancer and has to fly back home when she gets ill. Her mum is a funny character and it’s lovely to see their relationship.
When Nora flys back home, she is in a mad panic, so Julian gets tickets on the flight just to be with her, as he can see her struggling! I also enjoyed Nora’s friendship build with her boss Darcy, who is very stand offish at first, but they end up with a great friendship.
Overall I loved this story, especially being set in London and seeing Nora have her happily ever after.
Nora leaves London and goes back to London for a job and finds out that her ex, Hugh, who she had a fling with at 19, is now in a famous band and also engaged!! She wonders what could have been with Hugh. She goes to a gig in the pub they play at and she meets him and his friend Julian again.
She has to review places in London for her job and she takes Hugh’s best friend Julian along, just as friends. The more she spends time with him, the more she realises she is falling for Julian!
I loved Nora as a character, she is funny and relatable. It’s emotional at times, as her mum is struggling with cancer and has to fly back home when she gets ill. Her mum is a funny character and it’s lovely to see their relationship.
When Nora flys back home, she is in a mad panic, so Julian gets tickets on the flight just to be with her, as he can see her struggling! I also enjoyed Nora’s friendship build with her boss Darcy, who is very stand offish at first, but they end up with a great friendship.
Overall I loved this story, especially being set in London and seeing Nora have her happily ever after.
May 31, 2024
Nora is back in London; this time, instead of a teenage summer abroad, she's landed her dream job as a travel guidebook writer. Navigating the city should be as easy as her first trip there, but life never works that way. Nora must contend with fitting in at her new job and memories of the past—namely Hugh, her first-ever love, and Julian, Hugh's best friend and her latest companion in exploring London with her, helps give a local perspective.
This book is about first loves and how life shapes us all. The banter is cute, and the story made me smile. I loved the addition of Nora's interest in history and the macabre. The characters were relatable, and I just have to say that Julian stole my heart from the beginning.
It does contain two open-door spice scenes and is a fast-paced read. I was drawn into Nora's sunshine nature and liked that she was never afraid to be herself. The side characters were a great addition and helped to further the story. If you're a fan of romantic comedies, quirky female main characters, witty banter, and a heartwarming happily ever after, this book is a must-read.
This book is about first loves and how life shapes us all. The banter is cute, and the story made me smile. I loved the addition of Nora's interest in history and the macabre. The characters were relatable, and I just have to say that Julian stole my heart from the beginning.
It does contain two open-door spice scenes and is a fast-paced read. I was drawn into Nora's sunshine nature and liked that she was never afraid to be herself. The side characters were a great addition and helped to further the story. If you're a fan of romantic comedies, quirky female main characters, witty banter, and a heartwarming happily ever after, this book is a must-read.
June 7, 2024
What a beautifully written book by Hannah! This has been one of my faves so far and I'm rooting for the characters, this could totally be a series, I hope it becomes one if not! I love Nora, her no nonsense attitude makes me smile, her love triangle with Hugh and Julian is entertaining to say the least but they all go on a journey of discovery to see their true feelings. What they want out of life and what they don't. Even if they go the long way round to find it!
Nora's mum's story is a poignant one, reminds me of my parents' attitude when they were in hospital. I feel a connection to Nora and Julian with the hospital scenes with memories of the time.
We all need a boss like Darcy, one that comes across with a hard shell but can be mushy at times, one that can take the mick out of you but also be motherly at the same time but one you don't want to get on the wrong side of. I like how Nora and Darcy hit it off straight away, the interview and first day where it all began to unfold with Nora, Hugh and Julian.
Love how Hannah has created characters I relate to, feel for and feel like I know! Will look forward to others from Hannah in future!
Nora's mum's story is a poignant one, reminds me of my parents' attitude when they were in hospital. I feel a connection to Nora and Julian with the hospital scenes with memories of the time.
We all need a boss like Darcy, one that comes across with a hard shell but can be mushy at times, one that can take the mick out of you but also be motherly at the same time but one you don't want to get on the wrong side of. I like how Nora and Darcy hit it off straight away, the interview and first day where it all began to unfold with Nora, Hugh and Julian.
Love how Hannah has created characters I relate to, feel for and feel like I know! Will look forward to others from Hannah in future!
June 14, 2024
"Elephant and Castle" beautifully explores the nuances of first loves and the ways life shapes us all. The witty banter is delightful, and the story effortlessly brings a smile to your face. I particularly enjoyed Nora's unique interest in history and the macabre, which added an intriguing layer to her character. Julian, charming and endearing from the start, quickly stole my heart.
This fast-paced read features two open-door spice scenes and draws you in with Nora's sunny disposition and unyielding authenticity. The side characters are wonderfully crafted, adding depth and furthering the story's progression. Fans of romantic comedies, quirky heroines, witty exchanges, and heartwarming happily-ever-afters will find this book irresistible.
The novel's vibrant setting and engaging love triangle keep you guessing, with palpable chemistry and an emotional rollercoaster that entertains and tugs at the heartstrings. Ledford’s writing is flirty, fun, and perfect for a summer beach read. "Elephant and Castle" is a story that lingers long after the final page, leaving you eager for more.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This fast-paced read features two open-door spice scenes and draws you in with Nora's sunny disposition and unyielding authenticity. The side characters are wonderfully crafted, adding depth and furthering the story's progression. Fans of romantic comedies, quirky heroines, witty exchanges, and heartwarming happily-ever-afters will find this book irresistible.
The novel's vibrant setting and engaging love triangle keep you guessing, with palpable chemistry and an emotional rollercoaster that entertains and tugs at the heartstrings. Ledford’s writing is flirty, fun, and perfect for a summer beach read. "Elephant and Castle" is a story that lingers long after the final page, leaving you eager for more.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 5, 2024
Quite a unique romantic rom-com. 5*
This was an enjoyable, witty read with quite a unique storyline. Those who read romance and rom-coms will know that the number of stories about, grumpy but hunky bosses, forbidden office romances, off-limits best siblings' best friends, and surprise secret pregnancies is running amok in the genre. The entire storyline of this novel is refreshingly unique and shows the author's great imagination. The geographical placement of the story is also welcome because as a Londoner who worked in Elephant and Castle, I was able to follow the locations of the scenes with much more inside knowledge and confidence than other novels set in the USA where I have no local knowledge. I wish there were more books written that were set in England. The characters were well described and in their own right contributed to the storyline. It is a very pleasant, easy-to-read witty piece of writing that I am more than happy to recommend.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was an enjoyable, witty read with quite a unique storyline. Those who read romance and rom-coms will know that the number of stories about, grumpy but hunky bosses, forbidden office romances, off-limits best siblings' best friends, and surprise secret pregnancies is running amok in the genre. The entire storyline of this novel is refreshingly unique and shows the author's great imagination. The geographical placement of the story is also welcome because as a Londoner who worked in Elephant and Castle, I was able to follow the locations of the scenes with much more inside knowledge and confidence than other novels set in the USA where I have no local knowledge. I wish there were more books written that were set in England. The characters were well described and in their own right contributed to the storyline. It is a very pleasant, easy-to-read witty piece of writing that I am more than happy to recommend.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 25, 2024
Hannah Ledford’s debut novel, Elephant and Castle, is a mesmerizing journey into the depths of human emotions and the complexities of relationships. Ledford masterfully crafts a narrative that is both poignant and uplifting, exploring the intricacies of love, loss, and self-discovery.
The characters are richly developed, each with their unique flaws and strengths, making them incredibly relatable. The protagonist’s journey through personal challenges and her ultimate triumph is inspiring and heartwarming. Ledford’s prose is beautifully lyrical, painting vivid scenes that draw readers into the heart of the story.
What truly sets Elephant and Castle apart is its ability to balance moments of profound reflection with light-hearted humor. The novel is not just a story but an experience, leaving readers with a sense of hope and a deeper understanding of the human condition.
Hannah Ledford’s Elephant and Castle is a must-read, promising to touch hearts and linger in the minds of its readers long after the final page is turned.
The characters are richly developed, each with their unique flaws and strengths, making them incredibly relatable. The protagonist’s journey through personal challenges and her ultimate triumph is inspiring and heartwarming. Ledford’s prose is beautifully lyrical, painting vivid scenes that draw readers into the heart of the story.
What truly sets Elephant and Castle apart is its ability to balance moments of profound reflection with light-hearted humor. The novel is not just a story but an experience, leaving readers with a sense of hope and a deeper understanding of the human condition.
Hannah Ledford’s Elephant and Castle is a must-read, promising to touch hearts and linger in the minds of its readers long after the final page is turned.
June 13, 2024
Whatever it was that made me pick this book I’m very glad of it! The ultimate second chance romance, but maybe not even in the way you expect! Oh to be 19 again and remember a time when you saw love and the world differently. Would you still have the same outlook and feelings if you could experience it again seven years later? Nora gets her dream job and is able to return to the city where she and her first love blossomed. There is so much hope and so many expectations and all the feels! The writing is amazing and I was laughing out loud and cheering and yes, crying. I was so disappointed with Julian at the end. His lack of confidence was devastating. But overall such a wonderful story of life and love. The characters have great humor and awesome chemistry. I honestly would love a sequel perhaps staring Nora’s mom and Julian’s dad! Definitely a great read! I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving a free copy.
May 29, 2024
It's no secret that romcoms are my absolute favourite. I don't care about predictability, or smut, or girly writing. It just gives me such a warm, glowing feeling to read, and this is no exception.
I finished this in less than 12 hours, I just couldn't put it down (shh, don't tell my boss). I totally fell in love with the characters, the setting, and the storyline.
I loved the idea of discovering and writing reviews about the quaint, off the beaten track spots.
Darcy was a brilliant character, full of sass and not afraid to te it like it is.
Trigger warnings for cancer and cheating.
There's some light spice, but it isn't much, and it's inkeeping with the story.
There's a happily ever after, which I always adore.
The cover art is so cute, and I think it perfectly sets the tone for this light, sweet, funny romance.
I'd happily read more by this author.
I finished this in less than 12 hours, I just couldn't put it down (shh, don't tell my boss). I totally fell in love with the characters, the setting, and the storyline.
I loved the idea of discovering and writing reviews about the quaint, off the beaten track spots.
Darcy was a brilliant character, full of sass and not afraid to te it like it is.
Trigger warnings for cancer and cheating.
There's some light spice, but it isn't much, and it's inkeeping with the story.
There's a happily ever after, which I always adore.
The cover art is so cute, and I think it perfectly sets the tone for this light, sweet, funny romance.
I'd happily read more by this author.
May 18, 2024
“Elephant and Castle” by Hannah Ledford is a charming and whimsical journey through the heart of London, filled with romance and the magic of second chances. The story’s protagonist, Nora Shrapsan, is a delightful guide to the city’s wonders, from murder tours to magic shows, all while navigating the complexities of love.
What I loved most about this novel is the vibrant setting and the engaging love triangle that keeps you guessing. The chemistry between the characters is palpable, and the emotional rollercoaster they ride is both entertaining and heartfelt. Ledford’s writing is flirty and fun, making “Elephant and Castle” the perfect summer beach read. It’s a story that stays with you long after the last page.
What I loved most about this novel is the vibrant setting and the engaging love triangle that keeps you guessing. The chemistry between the characters is palpable, and the emotional rollercoaster they ride is both entertaining and heartfelt. Ledford’s writing is flirty and fun, making “Elephant and Castle” the perfect summer beach read. It’s a story that stays with you long after the last page.
May 18, 2024
American Nora spent a year in London when she was 19. She fell in love with musician Hugh and things ended only because she had to return to the U.S. Now 26 Nora returns to London for a job. She fantasizes about meeting Hugh again and wonders what would have happened when they didn't break up back when. And then she really does meet him again - but things are more complicated than in her fantasies and then there is Hugh's best friend Julian with whom Nora just always has so much fun...
This was such a fun read. I liked all the characters and I loved how the story unfolded. And of course all Nora's touristy adventures made me wanna go to London and go on a Jack-the-Ripper-Pub-Tour asap.
I received an ARC via Netgalley.com and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was such a fun read. I liked all the characters and I loved how the story unfolded. And of course all Nora's touristy adventures made me wanna go to London and go on a Jack-the-Ripper-Pub-Tour asap.
I received an ARC via Netgalley.com and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 20, 2024
Elephant and Castle: Last time Nora was in London, she was still in college, carefree, and she fell in love with Hugh, a slightly older musician. She spent her time there in pubs and hanging out with Hugh’s friends. Now, seven years later, she moves to London for a job as a travel writer. Hugh is engaged, and Nora is starting to have weird feelings about his best friend. Julian seemed shy and proper back then, but could things be different after all this time?
It was exciting to read something set in Southwark, an area of London I stayed in with my mother a few times and absolutely love. But I would have loved this book regardless of setting. Nora is just…a normal person. Her hair is kind of frizzy, she has a weird laugh and a bad sense of direction. She is extremely relatable in a very refreshing way. Her relationship with Julian felt very natural, and I really loved that there wasn’t a bunch of dithering about Hugh. THANK GOD. I kind of hated Hugh, so I was relieved there wasn’t a hint of a love triangle.
Nora’s relationship with her new boss is a particular highlight. Their scenes together were so funny and maybe my favorite parts of the book. Darcy is such a grump with a hidden heart of gold. I would absolutely read a book from her perspective.
Thank you City Owl Press and LibraryThing for the ARC!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
It was exciting to read something set in Southwark, an area of London I stayed in with my mother a few times and absolutely love. But I would have loved this book regardless of setting. Nora is just…a normal person. Her hair is kind of frizzy, she has a weird laugh and a bad sense of direction. She is extremely relatable in a very refreshing way. Her relationship with Julian felt very natural, and I really loved that there wasn’t a bunch of dithering about Hugh. THANK GOD. I kind of hated Hugh, so I was relieved there wasn’t a hint of a love triangle.
Nora’s relationship with her new boss is a particular highlight. Their scenes together were so funny and maybe my favorite parts of the book. Darcy is such a grump with a hidden heart of gold. I would absolutely read a book from her perspective.
Thank you City Owl Press and LibraryThing for the ARC!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
June 3, 2024
I’m going to start with the absolute gorgeous cover of this book, the images and colours really are an absolute vibe.
I’ve only recently been to London and I absolutely think this was the perfect backdrop for Nora’s story. The love for this city was so nice to read about.
I loved Nora, she was relatable. The plot was great and reading about her relationships made me love her all the more.
I found this a quick beautiful read which I really enjoyed. Some parts were laugh out loud funny and other parts were sensitive and still loveable.
Next time I’m in London I’ve found a few other places I would like to visit too 😍♥️
I’ve only recently been to London and I absolutely think this was the perfect backdrop for Nora’s story. The love for this city was so nice to read about.
I loved Nora, she was relatable. The plot was great and reading about her relationships made me love her all the more.
I found this a quick beautiful read which I really enjoyed. Some parts were laugh out loud funny and other parts were sensitive and still loveable.
Next time I’m in London I’ve found a few other places I would like to visit too 😍♥️
June 10, 2024
First things first - just look at this stunning cover!
I don't know why exactly, but I absolutely loved this cover - definitely one I'd grab off the shelf and adore.
I love the London skyline and the colours are just dreamy which totally sums up everything there is about this book!
Romcoms are one of my favourite reads and I could never tire of all the standard themes and storylines. I just love them and this one was such a fun and heartwarming story that I couldn't help racing through this in just 2 sittings!
After a summer romance in London ended with Nora returning to New York, she's never really forgotten her first big love, Hugh.
Now seven years on and she's returning to write a book and discovers that Hugh is now a famous rock star.
I loved the idea that Nora had high hopes for rekindling her relationship with Hugh, but finding him engaged kind of scuppered her plans.
Needing help to navigate London - she turns to Hugh's best friend, Julian - and we all knew where this story was going to end up!
This didn't spoil my enjoyment one bit though, as I said, I could never tire to the themes, I just love seeing the characters dance around each other and watching their friendship blossom over time into the relationship that we're all rooting for.
I loved the setting being in London and loved seeing all these 'hidden' gems that I'm yet to explore!
This was a great start to my summer reading - well written with great characters and little touch of spice - a hugely enjoyable read and although my first from this author, it definitely won't be the last!
I don't know why exactly, but I absolutely loved this cover - definitely one I'd grab off the shelf and adore.
I love the London skyline and the colours are just dreamy which totally sums up everything there is about this book!
Romcoms are one of my favourite reads and I could never tire of all the standard themes and storylines. I just love them and this one was such a fun and heartwarming story that I couldn't help racing through this in just 2 sittings!
After a summer romance in London ended with Nora returning to New York, she's never really forgotten her first big love, Hugh.
Now seven years on and she's returning to write a book and discovers that Hugh is now a famous rock star.
I loved the idea that Nora had high hopes for rekindling her relationship with Hugh, but finding him engaged kind of scuppered her plans.
Needing help to navigate London - she turns to Hugh's best friend, Julian - and we all knew where this story was going to end up!
This didn't spoil my enjoyment one bit though, as I said, I could never tire to the themes, I just love seeing the characters dance around each other and watching their friendship blossom over time into the relationship that we're all rooting for.
I loved the setting being in London and loved seeing all these 'hidden' gems that I'm yet to explore!
This was a great start to my summer reading - well written with great characters and little touch of spice - a hugely enjoyable read and although my first from this author, it definitely won't be the last!
June 1, 2024
Good:
There was plenty of angst and tension in this second chance, love triangle. I must admit that this is not my favourite form of romance, however the characters were likeable enough for me to keep reading. A lot of the book was taken with this push and pull and it was light on spice. I enjoyed the humour and the dialogue between the characters. The setting was also interesting and the author did a good job of making me feel like I really was in London with the characters.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
There was plenty of angst and tension in this second chance, love triangle. I must admit that this is not my favourite form of romance, however the characters were likeable enough for me to keep reading. A lot of the book was taken with this push and pull and it was light on spice. I enjoyed the humour and the dialogue between the characters. The setting was also interesting and the author did a good job of making me feel like I really was in London with the characters.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 3, 2024
I really enjoyed this book. It was a quick read that left me smiling. It is a story of family and friends and taking chances to create the life of your dreams. But what if a second chance comes at the cost of destroying someone’s life? London plays a huge role in the story as it is the setting of past love and adventure and of the current dream job. If you love rom coms I recommend adding this book to your summer reading list.
Thanks to the author and Love Book Tours for providing a copy for my honest review.
Thanks to the author and Love Book Tours for providing a copy for my honest review.
June 10, 2024
Nora is a writer who has just moved to London. She stayed in London when she was 19 and met her first love Hugh . Nora agree to go to with her boss where she meets her ex boyfriend Hugh. Hugh’s best friend Julian has been in love with Nora since they first met. As part of Nora’s job she has to write about restaurants in London.The book is a nice easy romance. It’s a slow burn story of who will Nora end up with . Thank you to the publisher and Net Galley for allowing me to read this in exchange for an honest review.
July 8, 2024
This book was such a fun read! As someone who is a big fan of romance books, this one is near the top of my charts! Elephant and Castle is not only a love story, but a story about friendship, self-love and growth, and full of wit and banter. The main character, Nora, is so relatable and fun, it was hard to ever put the book down, as I wanted to know what adventure she’d go on next! Elephant and Castle by Hannah Ledford is a must read for anyone looking for a book with romance, wit, and an all around feel good read!
June 1, 2024
This was a very enjoyable read for me as I was bought up going to London every couple of weekends and visited some of the places which are mentioned. I loved Nora and her self imposed love triangle which she has to fight her way through to find her true feelings for one of the men. The author handles the subject of a family member being sick with Cancer and how this can effect relatives life. This is a very enjoyable book which is perfect for the summer.
June 6, 2024
Elephant and castle by Hannah Ledford.
I love the cover. It was different. I liked Nora. I didn't expect it to go how it went. I liked Julian. I did like how they kept ending up together. This was a nice change for me. I liked the writing style. I was yelling at Julian and agreeing with his dad. I did like how Darcy and Nora were with each other, trying to get the other one together with Anika and Julian. I liked the ending. 4*.
I love the cover. It was different. I liked Nora. I didn't expect it to go how it went. I liked Julian. I did like how they kept ending up together. This was a nice change for me. I liked the writing style. I was yelling at Julian and agreeing with his dad. I did like how Darcy and Nora were with each other, trying to get the other one together with Anika and Julian. I liked the ending. 4*.
June 5, 2024
This is the first book in a while I really did not want to put down. I would find myself annoyed to have to stop and go to work, adult.
I really cheered for the characters and wanted them to do well. The musician ex was not my favorite, but he is her ex for a reason.
I’d love a follow up about her boss and her boss’s girlfriend.
Thank you for the giveaway copy!
I really cheered for the characters and wanted them to do well. The musician ex was not my favorite, but he is her ex for a reason.
I’d love a follow up about her boss and her boss’s girlfriend.
Thank you for the giveaway copy!
June 21, 2024
adventurous emotional funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted medium-paced
This is a delightful read for fans of contemporary romance and witty banter, who will appreciate the charming London setting, the swoon-worthy love triangle, and the relatable themes of self-discovery, second chances, and the complexities of relationships.
This is a delightful read for fans of contemporary romance and witty banter, who will appreciate the charming London setting, the swoon-worthy love triangle, and the relatable themes of self-discovery, second chances, and the complexities of relationships.
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