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Ex on the Beach
Not yet published
Expected 9 Feb 26Escape to the Caribbean in the BRAND NEW feel-good romantic comedy from Phoebe MacLeod, BESTSELLING author of Love, Accidentally 🏖️☀️🍹 Tori needs a holiday. London is cold and grey, work is manic, and after a regrettable New Year’s Eve hookup with her ex, her best friends won’t stop pushing her onto dating apps. So when a colleague offers Tori the last spot on a Jamaican getaway, she doesn't take much persuasion.
But paradise comes with a twist. Not only is she forced to share a room with grumpy, recently dumped Robert, but her ex has turned up too, hand-in-hand with his new girlfriend. Ten days in the sun suddenly looks like ten days of torture.
Still, Tori is determined to make the most of her situation. And who knows, with sun-kissed beaches, poolside views, and a charming hotel piano player, this trip might just turn into the escape she didn’t know she needed…
Praise for Phoebe
‘The perfect book.’ Goodreads review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘This book fundamentally changed me and now I need to read every romcom I can get my claws on! I giggled, I almost threw my book, I kicked my little feet, and I finished it basically in one sitting … what more could you ask for?’ Goodreads review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘MacLeod weaves a tale of unexpected love, second chances, and the magic of warm summer days.’ Goodreads review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘Phoebe Macleod writes easy to ready, sweet but not shallow books. She has a lovely writing style and she’s the sort of author that I feel safe with, that I know I’m probably going to love pretty much anything she writes - one of the finish-a-book-and-buy-one-straight-after-on-kindle kinda vibes!‘ Goodreads review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘I love when a book can make me LOL in real life the whole time. This was such a fun rom-com and a safe one for people who like books without all the spice.’ Goodreads review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘This is a delightfully sweet and charming romantic comedy with a grumpy/sunshine trope (one of my favorites!)’ Goodreads review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘It's a very light, feelgood read and certainly put a smile on my face.’ Goodreads review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘A cute rom-com that focuses on friendship and different types of relationships, not just romance. I loved it, the characters are messy and complex as in real life.’ Goodreads review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
But paradise comes with a twist. Not only is she forced to share a room with grumpy, recently dumped Robert, but her ex has turned up too, hand-in-hand with his new girlfriend. Ten days in the sun suddenly looks like ten days of torture.
Still, Tori is determined to make the most of her situation. And who knows, with sun-kissed beaches, poolside views, and a charming hotel piano player, this trip might just turn into the escape she didn’t know she needed…
Praise for Phoebe
‘The perfect book.’ Goodreads review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘This book fundamentally changed me and now I need to read every romcom I can get my claws on! I giggled, I almost threw my book, I kicked my little feet, and I finished it basically in one sitting … what more could you ask for?’ Goodreads review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘MacLeod weaves a tale of unexpected love, second chances, and the magic of warm summer days.’ Goodreads review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘Phoebe Macleod writes easy to ready, sweet but not shallow books. She has a lovely writing style and she’s the sort of author that I feel safe with, that I know I’m probably going to love pretty much anything she writes - one of the finish-a-book-and-buy-one-straight-after-on-kindle kinda vibes!‘ Goodreads review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘I love when a book can make me LOL in real life the whole time. This was such a fun rom-com and a safe one for people who like books without all the spice.’ Goodreads review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘This is a delightfully sweet and charming romantic comedy with a grumpy/sunshine trope (one of my favorites!)’ Goodreads review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘It's a very light, feelgood read and certainly put a smile on my face.’ Goodreads review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘A cute rom-com that focuses on friendship and different types of relationships, not just romance. I loved it, the characters are messy and complex as in real life.’ Goodreads review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
287 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication February 9, 2026
57 people want to read
About the author
Phoebe MacLeod
30 books413 followersPhoebe MacLeod is married and lives just outside Sevenoaks in Kent. She has two grown-up sons at university, and a disobedient dog. She enjoys reading, cooking, playing the piano and walking the dog. She’s also keen on vintage and classic cars and can often be seen behind the wheel of her own classic - a 1928 Ford Model A.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
January 7, 2026
3 1/2 stars! This was a quick fun read with characters that felt real and relatable. The lead character Tori goes through such a range of emotions and life changes, and I felt like I was right there alongside her watching it all play out.
Thank you Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the ARC! I enjoyed this one!
Thank you Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the ARC! I enjoyed this one!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Ex on the Beach by Phoebe MacLeod is a sunny, sarcastic, comfort-read romcom that dropped me straight onto a Jamaican beach while I was still wrapped in a blanket wondering why winter exists.
Thank you so much to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for my gifted ARC, which could not have arrived at a better time and absolutely saved my mood.
I’ve always loved Phoebe MacLeod’s books, but this one felt especially indulgent in the best way. Tori is exhausted, emotionally over it, and still haunted by an ex who should have stayed firmly in the past. After a regrettable New Year’s Eve decision, she escapes London for a tropical holiday, and honestly, I was ready to follow her with my emotional baggage and a carry-on. The setup alone is romcom gold, but the execution is what really shines.
Forced proximity? Check. Grumpy roommate with hidden depths? Check. An ex turning up uninvited with a shiny new girlfriend? Unfortunately, also check. The banter between Tori and Robert is where this book truly sparkles. It’s sharp without being cruel, funny without trying too hard, and full of those small, human moments that make you feel like you know these characters. I laughed out loud more than once, and yes, I also did the thing where you kick your feet and grin at your Kindle like a fool.
What I really appreciated is how grounded this story feels beneath the sunshine and cocktails. It’s about second chances, but also about boundaries, friendship, and figuring out what you actually want when life feels a bit messy. It’s cozy, low-spice, and emotionally safe, which made it incredibly comforting to read.
One line that perfectly captures the heart of the book is: “Sometimes the worst timing brings you exactly where you’re meant to be.” That sums up Tori’s journey and why this story works so well.
Boldwood truly never disappoints, and it’s a privilege to read these books early. This was a fun, light, escapist read that still had depth, and it will absolutely be a book club recommendation from me. I already can’t wait for whatever Phoebe MacLeod writes next.
★★★★☆ 4/5 stars
#ExOnTheBeach #PhoebeMacLeod #BookReview #ARCReview #RomComReads #FeelGoodFiction #BoldwoodBooks #NetGalley #RomanticComedy #CozyReads #Bookstagram #2026Reads
Thank you so much to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for my gifted ARC, which could not have arrived at a better time and absolutely saved my mood.
I’ve always loved Phoebe MacLeod’s books, but this one felt especially indulgent in the best way. Tori is exhausted, emotionally over it, and still haunted by an ex who should have stayed firmly in the past. After a regrettable New Year’s Eve decision, she escapes London for a tropical holiday, and honestly, I was ready to follow her with my emotional baggage and a carry-on. The setup alone is romcom gold, but the execution is what really shines.
Forced proximity? Check. Grumpy roommate with hidden depths? Check. An ex turning up uninvited with a shiny new girlfriend? Unfortunately, also check. The banter between Tori and Robert is where this book truly sparkles. It’s sharp without being cruel, funny without trying too hard, and full of those small, human moments that make you feel like you know these characters. I laughed out loud more than once, and yes, I also did the thing where you kick your feet and grin at your Kindle like a fool.
What I really appreciated is how grounded this story feels beneath the sunshine and cocktails. It’s about second chances, but also about boundaries, friendship, and figuring out what you actually want when life feels a bit messy. It’s cozy, low-spice, and emotionally safe, which made it incredibly comforting to read.
One line that perfectly captures the heart of the book is: “Sometimes the worst timing brings you exactly where you’re meant to be.” That sums up Tori’s journey and why this story works so well.
Boldwood truly never disappoints, and it’s a privilege to read these books early. This was a fun, light, escapist read that still had depth, and it will absolutely be a book club recommendation from me. I already can’t wait for whatever Phoebe MacLeod writes next.
★★★★☆ 4/5 stars
#ExOnTheBeach #PhoebeMacLeod #BookReview #ARCReview #RomComReads #FeelGoodFiction #BoldwoodBooks #NetGalley #RomanticComedy #CozyReads #Bookstagram #2026Reads
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
What a fun, relaxing, low-angst romcom that made me want to head straight for Jamaica!
Tori made the huge mistake of a drunken hookup with her ex-boyfriend on New Year's Eve, and now her friends are convinced she's either still into him or ready to make a similar misstep. So she gets talked into taking someone's place on a trip to an all-inclusive Jamaican resort. And disaster ensues: she thought she'd be sharing a room with another woman, but instead the woman's ex shows up (Robert, who's a complete jerk); turns out Tori's ex is on the trip with his annoying and bossy girlfriend (who he cheated on with Tori), the resort doesn't serve alcohol, the list goes on.
One fun part? Gabriel, the resort pianist. They find a connection, though it takes her some time to get him to open up, and he takes her all over the island and gets her away from the crazy.
This book was a fun, easy read that I enjoyed from start to finish. The group moments were hilarious, and I loved Tori's comeback and ways of putting awful Amy in her place. I loved how Tori and Robert managed to find friendship and solidarity. And the connection between Tori and Gabriel was sweet and sexy at the same time (closed door). The characters were a bit one-dimensional but that's what I expect in a light beach read. Overall, I really enjoyed it and am happy I read it.
Thank you to Boldwood Books for my advance e-book. All thoughts and opinions are mine.
Tori made the huge mistake of a drunken hookup with her ex-boyfriend on New Year's Eve, and now her friends are convinced she's either still into him or ready to make a similar misstep. So she gets talked into taking someone's place on a trip to an all-inclusive Jamaican resort. And disaster ensues: she thought she'd be sharing a room with another woman, but instead the woman's ex shows up (Robert, who's a complete jerk); turns out Tori's ex is on the trip with his annoying and bossy girlfriend (who he cheated on with Tori), the resort doesn't serve alcohol, the list goes on.
One fun part? Gabriel, the resort pianist. They find a connection, though it takes her some time to get him to open up, and he takes her all over the island and gets her away from the crazy.
This book was a fun, easy read that I enjoyed from start to finish. The group moments were hilarious, and I loved Tori's comeback and ways of putting awful Amy in her place. I loved how Tori and Robert managed to find friendship and solidarity. And the connection between Tori and Gabriel was sweet and sexy at the same time (closed door). The characters were a bit one-dimensional but that's what I expect in a light beach read. Overall, I really enjoyed it and am happy I read it.
Thank you to Boldwood Books for my advance e-book. All thoughts and opinions are mine.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Ex on the Beach was not exactly what I was expecting from the title, but this ends up being a delightful rom com with more than Tori, the main character having relationship issues.
This is the second Phoebe MacLeod novel I have read and once again I enjoyed it.
Tori, after a regrettable New Year's Eve gets the opportunity to leave cold, dreary London and go on a trip to Jamaica as a fill in for a small group where one of the couples has just broken up.
Her roommate gets changed at the last minute and she ends up sharing with Robert who she butts heads with almost immediately. The back and forth between these two characters is amazing and quite comical.
Her ex and his girlfriend are also in this group unbeknownst to her and her ex's girlfriend is controlling and insecure in her relationship. What else could go wrong? The resort that they are staying at is an all-inclusive wellness resort that does not serve alcohol.
Tori, however, does make friends with the piano player in the lounge and sparks ensue. Will this be just a vacation romance or will she crack his shell and become much more?
I loved the group dynamics of this group because I found it relatable as to what vacationing in a group can be like.
I look forward to more books from this author and I highly recommend it as an escape from the dreary winter !
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for this ARC in return for my honest review.
This is the second Phoebe MacLeod novel I have read and once again I enjoyed it.
Tori, after a regrettable New Year's Eve gets the opportunity to leave cold, dreary London and go on a trip to Jamaica as a fill in for a small group where one of the couples has just broken up.
Her roommate gets changed at the last minute and she ends up sharing with Robert who she butts heads with almost immediately. The back and forth between these two characters is amazing and quite comical.
Her ex and his girlfriend are also in this group unbeknownst to her and her ex's girlfriend is controlling and insecure in her relationship. What else could go wrong? The resort that they are staying at is an all-inclusive wellness resort that does not serve alcohol.
Tori, however, does make friends with the piano player in the lounge and sparks ensue. Will this be just a vacation romance or will she crack his shell and become much more?
I loved the group dynamics of this group because I found it relatable as to what vacationing in a group can be like.
I look forward to more books from this author and I highly recommend it as an escape from the dreary winter !
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for this ARC in return for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Two things Tori did not expect to have to deal with on her holiday to Jamaica…. A grumpy Robert who has just been dumped and her ex Stuart and his girlfriend!
Unexpectedly Tori is travelling on a couples holiday to Jamaica, downside she has to share a room with Robert, who is also not best pleased and very rude from the get go. Then her ex Stuart is also along for the holiday with his girlfriend Amy, she is very jarring, demanding and too much to handle for what’s meant to be a chilled out holiday.
Thankfully Tori doesn’t take any of it and manages to make the best of the situation, exploring the resort and bar where she meets piano player Gabriel.
This was a typical Pheobe MacLeod read and I enjoyed it. Light hearted and fun escape.
Tori was a brilliant main character and her interactions with Robert were excellent, I liked how Robert also had a journey too. Gabriel was just stunning, the perfect holiday romance.
The additional characters, Tori’s friends, Priya, Rosie were always her cheerleader and I loved they they were always there for her. True friendship!
Overall a great read. Thank you NetGalley for the download.
Unexpectedly Tori is travelling on a couples holiday to Jamaica, downside she has to share a room with Robert, who is also not best pleased and very rude from the get go. Then her ex Stuart is also along for the holiday with his girlfriend Amy, she is very jarring, demanding and too much to handle for what’s meant to be a chilled out holiday.
Thankfully Tori doesn’t take any of it and manages to make the best of the situation, exploring the resort and bar where she meets piano player Gabriel.
This was a typical Pheobe MacLeod read and I enjoyed it. Light hearted and fun escape.
Tori was a brilliant main character and her interactions with Robert were excellent, I liked how Robert also had a journey too. Gabriel was just stunning, the perfect holiday romance.
The additional characters, Tori’s friends, Priya, Rosie were always her cheerleader and I loved they they were always there for her. True friendship!
Overall a great read. Thank you NetGalley for the download.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I am a huge romance reader, and I especially love books that make me laugh along the way. I had heard so many good things about Phoebe MacLeod, so I was really excited to finally pick up one of her books. From the start, this felt like it was going to be a fun read, and I could not wait to dive in.
This book hooked me right from the beginning. I really liked that it is told in first person from only the FMC’s point of view. Having just her perspective added an extra layer of intrigue and kept several plot points a complete surprise. Based on the description, I had a pretty clear idea of how I thought the story would unfold, but I was pleasantly proven wrong. The direction the story took caught me off guard in the best way, and I honestly think it was a smart choice that made the book even more enjoyable.
All in all, I really enjoyed this book. It was funny, engaging, and full of moments that kept me turning pages. Phoebe MacLeod has officially been added to my list of authors to watch, and I will definitely be picking up more of her books in the future.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
This book hooked me right from the beginning. I really liked that it is told in first person from only the FMC’s point of view. Having just her perspective added an extra layer of intrigue and kept several plot points a complete surprise. Based on the description, I had a pretty clear idea of how I thought the story would unfold, but I was pleasantly proven wrong. The direction the story took caught me off guard in the best way, and I honestly think it was a smart choice that made the book even more enjoyable.
All in all, I really enjoyed this book. It was funny, engaging, and full of moments that kept me turning pages. Phoebe MacLeod has officially been added to my list of authors to watch, and I will definitely be picking up more of her books in the future.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Sometimes you just need a book that isn’t enemies to lovers. No endless back and forth, no emotional whiplash just a cozy, feel good romance with a happily ever after. And this one delivered exactly that.
We follow Tori, who desperately needs a break from life after work stress and a very regrettable hookup with her ex. A spontaneous Jamaican getaway sounds like the perfect reset… except the trip doesn’t turn out quite the way she expected.
I really loved Tori and Gabriel together they were genuinely so cute, and I adored watching their relationship unfold naturally. Their connection felt easy, sweet, and refreshing, which made the romance incredibly enjoyable to read.
I also really appreciated the side friendships and the little bit of drama sprinkled throughout it added depth without overwhelming the main story. Everything came together in a way that felt fun, relaxing, and emotionally satisfying.
Overall, this was a great escape read with heart, sunshine, and just enough drama to keep things interesting. Perfect for when you want romance without the chaos.
Thank you Boldwood Books and NetGalley for this ARC!✨
We follow Tori, who desperately needs a break from life after work stress and a very regrettable hookup with her ex. A spontaneous Jamaican getaway sounds like the perfect reset… except the trip doesn’t turn out quite the way she expected.
I really loved Tori and Gabriel together they were genuinely so cute, and I adored watching their relationship unfold naturally. Their connection felt easy, sweet, and refreshing, which made the romance incredibly enjoyable to read.
I also really appreciated the side friendships and the little bit of drama sprinkled throughout it added depth without overwhelming the main story. Everything came together in a way that felt fun, relaxing, and emotionally satisfying.
Overall, this was a great escape read with heart, sunshine, and just enough drama to keep things interesting. Perfect for when you want romance without the chaos.
Thank you Boldwood Books and NetGalley for this ARC!✨
January 21, 2026
Oh my goodness. What a fun book. Perfect for a beach read. I loved the characters, the female friendships and the scenery and setting. I hated the characters of Amy and Stewart and I wish more had been made of how unliveable they were. Tori is a single career girl, living life, working hard and having fun on her terms. She’s met some losers whilst looking for love. Her friend has booked a holiday of a lifetime to Jamaica for 6 but one of the couples splits up so a place becomes available. She takes it and what should be an amazing opportunity has all the markings of being a disaster when she sees who is on the trip and who she will be sharing a room with. Military style planning from control freak Amy who soon realises that her boyfriend Stewart is Tori’s ex! Leads to some wrangling of control. Tori meets and forms a friendship with Gabriel the piano playing owners brother. She escapes and sees the real Jamaica thanks to him.
This is a great read and one I wholeheartedly recommend. Thank you NetGalley for this arc in exchange for an honest review.
This is a great read and one I wholeheartedly recommend. Thank you NetGalley for this arc in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is a light, fun read when you're looking to unwind without needing to concentrate.
The story centres around Tori, her slimeball ex, and a bundle of amusing supporting characters.
Tori is clever and quick-witted and overall just easy to like. I found myself laughing out loud in multiple places.
I did find it hard to really connect with most of the characters. I feel perhaps the their impact was diluted a little, either due to the number of them, or a little too much time spent in certain areas.
Overall, it does what it sets out to do: provides a gentle distraction and escape when you just need a little rest and sunshine.
Read it if you love:
- Closed door romance (no spice)
- Beach reads
- Summer romance
Get your hands on this one from 9 February 2026 and just try to stop yourself from booking a summer getaway.
A shoutout to Phoebe Macleod and Boldwood Books for the complimentary copy of this book. The views and opinions expressed in this book are my own.
The story centres around Tori, her slimeball ex, and a bundle of amusing supporting characters.
Tori is clever and quick-witted and overall just easy to like. I found myself laughing out loud in multiple places.
I did find it hard to really connect with most of the characters. I feel perhaps the their impact was diluted a little, either due to the number of them, or a little too much time spent in certain areas.
Overall, it does what it sets out to do: provides a gentle distraction and escape when you just need a little rest and sunshine.
Read it if you love:
- Closed door romance (no spice)
- Beach reads
- Summer romance
Get your hands on this one from 9 February 2026 and just try to stop yourself from booking a summer getaway.
A shoutout to Phoebe Macleod and Boldwood Books for the complimentary copy of this book. The views and opinions expressed in this book are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The banter between Tori and Robert is genuinely sharp. It's the kind of sparring where you can feel the chemistry building underneath all the snark. The humor lands, I actually LOL-ed multiple times, which is rare. And the book gets what it's trying to do: it's cozy, low-spice, emotionally safe comfort reading that knows exactly how much chaos it wants to throw at you without going too dark.
There are certain parts where it lost me though...for instance, Gabriel, the resort pianist, shows up and suddenly there's this whole other romantic thread that kinda... dilutes what could have been a stronger Tori and Robert story? Like, Gabriel's sweet and takes her around the island and all that, but it feels like the book is hedging its bets instead of committing to the main couple. The romance needed more OOMPH to justify why this works long-term.
There are certain parts where it lost me though...for instance, Gabriel, the resort pianist, shows up and suddenly there's this whole other romantic thread that kinda... dilutes what could have been a stronger Tori and Robert story? Like, Gabriel's sweet and takes her around the island and all that, but it feels like the book is hedging its bets instead of committing to the main couple. The romance needed more OOMPH to justify why this works long-term.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I enjoyed this story. Tori has had a rough go lately. She ended up with her ex on New Year's and her friends won't let it go. Last minute, she agrees to go on a group vacation so everyone can get the discount. There's a broken up couple that opened a spot for her. There's a mix up and she ends up sharing a room with miserable Robert instead of Fliss. Her ex is half of an other couple and his girlfriend is controlling and making everyone miserable. Tori is a resilient character who made the best of s rough situation. She meets Gabriel and it's makes her holiday so much better. This was an enjoyable story with strong main characters. Tori's friends are a good support system, although they bothered me at first with how they harped on her about Stuart. it seemed more irritating than joking.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Phoebe MacLeod's novels are always funny and heartwarming. Ex on the Beach is no exception.
Tori and Gabriel are incredibly cute. Gabriel is a total sweetheart. I loved them both (and Gabriel's musical side was absolutely charming).
I learned so much about Jamaica and its cuisine.
The antagonists are excellent (I'm not sure that if I were Tori, I wouldn't have killed Robert, Amy, and Stuart right at the beginning of the book... hahaha).
In terms of the timeline, I'm not sure if too much happened, or too quickly, during the vacation. Especially Robert's sudden change of behaviour.
Overall, I found this novel very funny and the romance sweet. Tori is much more diplomatic than I am...
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Tori and Gabriel are incredibly cute. Gabriel is a total sweetheart. I loved them both (and Gabriel's musical side was absolutely charming).
I learned so much about Jamaica and its cuisine.
The antagonists are excellent (I'm not sure that if I were Tori, I wouldn't have killed Robert, Amy, and Stuart right at the beginning of the book... hahaha).
In terms of the timeline, I'm not sure if too much happened, or too quickly, during the vacation. Especially Robert's sudden change of behaviour.
Overall, I found this novel very funny and the romance sweet. Tori is much more diplomatic than I am...
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Entertaining, quick read about a trip from hell turned romantic. Tori joins a group trip last minute to fill in for half of a broken up couple. As a surprise, an ex who she had a recent run in with also shows up on the trip, making things super awkward. To avoid spending time with the group, and to enjoy her vacation, she befriends the hotel bar pianist, Gabriel. The book is cringe worthy at times, but totally intentional as some of the group are truly awful. However, you will end of rooting for some by the end. The story is really no spice, but features a couple of fade to black intimate scenes that reveal nothing. Check it out.
Thank you, Boldwood Books, for providing this book for review consideration through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are solely my own.
Thank you, Boldwood Books, for providing this book for review consideration through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are solely my own.
January 4, 2026
This was such a fun read. As an American I love an English romcom. It’s about this woman Tori ending up on a vacation with her ex. Right away she meets a pianist playing at the resort she’s staying at in Jamaica and the rest is history. I loved the idea of the story and while I enjoyed reading it, something felt like it was missing. There was a little too many details, which I know sounds like a silly complaint but I found myself skipping over paragraphs because it just felt like fillers. Overall it was enjoyable and I would read this author again.
Thank you netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book!
Thank you netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Really enjoyed this book, especially the (platonic) relationship between Tori and Robert.
Tori hates New Year's Day, especially waking up and realising that she wasn't alone.
But the offer of a ten day Jamaican holiday in January, she goes for it.
But fate has more in mind for Tori, sharing a room with Robert, her ex and his girlfriend, an alcohol free hotel all combine to make her think this will be 10 days too many.
Feel good romance with a bit of comedy, a main character who is normal and natural, a love interest who's a little secretive to start, what's not to love.
Thanks to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for this ARC
Tori hates New Year's Day, especially waking up and realising that she wasn't alone.
But the offer of a ten day Jamaican holiday in January, she goes for it.
But fate has more in mind for Tori, sharing a room with Robert, her ex and his girlfriend, an alcohol free hotel all combine to make her think this will be 10 days too many.
Feel good romance with a bit of comedy, a main character who is normal and natural, a love interest who's a little secretive to start, what's not to love.
Thanks to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for this ARC
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
What a fantastic book, I honestly think I had a smile on my face the whole way through it. Tori was such a feisty, outspoken force of nature that I couldn't help but cheer her on whether she was reading the riot act to Robert, leaving the pompous Amy speechless, or coming out with a mouthful of mixed metaphors. I still find myself laughing out loud at the dancefloor comment. It's always great to have characters to hate in a book and a certain couple who shall be nameless, no spoilers, filled those roles perfectly. This was the first book I have read by Phoebe MacLeod and I have already been looking up her back catalogue on Amazon and I only finished this book half an hour ago
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book started off strong and reminded me heavily of the same kind of witty storytelling of Bridget Jones’ but then it seemed to really slow down and take a steep nose dive for me.
It felt like the book was more dialogue than anything else - like maybe 80% dialogue? The romance between Gabriel and Tori felt forced. There definitely felt more of a pull and more banter between Robert and Tori. Gabriel felt like he came out of nowhere and I didn’t feel like their connection was as genuine.
Also Consuela the housekeeper? Are we for real? I wanted to really love this but it just wasn’t for me.
Thank you to Boldwood Books for an ARC. All opinions are my own.
It felt like the book was more dialogue than anything else - like maybe 80% dialogue? The romance between Gabriel and Tori felt forced. There definitely felt more of a pull and more banter between Robert and Tori. Gabriel felt like he came out of nowhere and I didn’t feel like their connection was as genuine.
Also Consuela the housekeeper? Are we for real? I wanted to really love this but it just wasn’t for me.
Thank you to Boldwood Books for an ARC. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is a fun, entertaining read. I enjoyed the romance and the path it took to get to the HEA. There is a lot going on this story and MacLeod seamlessly blends it all together into one cohesive piece, which each playing its part. I especially love the various character development we get to see and not just of our main characters. It adds that little extra something to story that is quite enjoyable. The secondary characters all added to the fabric of the story and my enjoyment. The story is easy to read and get into.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I wish I had enjoyed this book more because the premise is good. It's the first time I've read anything by this author, and I think her writing style simply doesn't appeal to me. Unfortunately, it didn't hold my attention during the reading, so i couldn’t connect with the characters and perhaps it's my fault for going into it expecting a different outcome.
ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book was a fun and easy read, and I’ll definitely be looking out for more of Phoebe MacLeod’s books.
There is some great banter and humour in Ex on the Beach, and some things that I didn’t see coming, which is a welcome surprise in this genre where you often know what’s next.
I liked Tori, Gabriel, Priya, Rosie and eventually Robert, but the rest of the travel group was pretty unlikable.
Highly recommended if you’re looking for a comedy romance that is original and witty.
There is some great banter and humour in Ex on the Beach, and some things that I didn’t see coming, which is a welcome surprise in this genre where you often know what’s next.
I liked Tori, Gabriel, Priya, Rosie and eventually Robert, but the rest of the travel group was pretty unlikable.
Highly recommended if you’re looking for a comedy romance that is original and witty.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This book turned out to be a lot of fun once it got past the slow start. The relationship between Robert and Tori genuinely made me laugh out loud more than once. Watching the complexities of all the relationships unfold was entertaining, and I was very satisfied when the bad shrimp finally delivered a little karma. The story was romantic and sigh worthy at times, with just enough humor to keep it light and enjoyable.
Thank you to the publisher for this ARC and exchange from my honest opinion.
Thank you to the publisher for this ARC and exchange from my honest opinion.
January 12, 2026
What a fun read! While I struggled to get into this book, I’m really glad I stuck with it because it turned into an absolutely charming tale of friendship and love! I adored the friendship between Tori and Robert and the slow simmering romance between Tori and Gabriel. The characters we were well developed and the dialogue was witty. Perfect read for a vacation, preferably somewhere warm. Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I am so glad that I was able to read this book! This story doesn't follow the typical rom-rom story arch and it was very refreshing. Tori, the FMC, is a character you want to root for and wish for her to get her happily ever after ending. All of the relationships depicted in the story were well thought out and felt like the kind of friends we all have in our lives. I can't wait to read more books from Phoebe MacLeod. If you are looking for a fun read, this is the book for you!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I loved this book! A good mixture of romance and comedy all rolled into one! To be honest, in the first few chapters, I had no idea which love interest would be the one for Tori, but I was so happy with the ending. As noted by other reviewers, this is a perfect book for those who do not want any spice and the book was clean HEA.
Thank you, Net Galley, the publisher, and Phoebe MacLeod for the eARC!
Thank you, Net Galley, the publisher, and Phoebe MacLeod for the eARC!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I always look forward to reading books by Phoebe MacLeod. They are wonderful pieces of escapism as her writing style makes it so easy to read and she always has very relatable characters. I was smiling, grimacing and giggling whilst reading this book, safe in the knowledge that I would enjoy it and everyone would get the ending they deserved.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC!
This book was overall entertaining but I don't think it'll leave a lasting impression on me. There were some parts I wasn't a fan of and I had trouble connecting to the characters. I do look forward to reading more from this author.
This book was overall entertaining but I don't think it'll leave a lasting impression on me. There were some parts I wasn't a fan of and I had trouble connecting to the characters. I do look forward to reading more from this author.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
fantastic romcom with great plotting and great vibes throughout. 5 stars. tysm for the arc, would recommend.
January 15, 2026
While Madrid woke up wrapped in mist today, my brain had already clocked out and flown straight to warm sand, turquoise water, and a beach chair with absolutely zero responsibilities!
Ex on the Beach turned out to be exactly that kind of escape… at least in theory. Because nothing says “relaxing tropical holiday” quite like running into the ex who should’ve stayed firmly in the past, right? Spoiler: he did not get the memo. Of course, he didn’t…
What’s meant to be a reset-in-the-sun quickly spirals into peak vacation chaos when old feelings resurface and forced proximity (definitely) does its thing, Throw in a grumpy stranger, and a surprise reunion nobody ordered (or well, we did), and you’ve got a rom-com setup.
‘Ex on the Beach’ is your read if you love:
🌴 Sun-soaked holiday chaos
☀️ Forced proximity
🌴 Grumpy-meets-sunshine (again) energy
☀️ Running into ‘that’ ex at the worst possible moment
🌴 Fresh starts disguised as messy vacations
Ex on the Beach turned out to be exactly that kind of escape… at least in theory. Because nothing says “relaxing tropical holiday” quite like running into the ex who should’ve stayed firmly in the past, right? Spoiler: he did not get the memo. Of course, he didn’t…
What’s meant to be a reset-in-the-sun quickly spirals into peak vacation chaos when old feelings resurface and forced proximity (definitely) does its thing, Throw in a grumpy stranger, and a surprise reunion nobody ordered (or well, we did), and you’ve got a rom-com setup.
‘Ex on the Beach’ is your read if you love:
🌴 Sun-soaked holiday chaos
☀️ Forced proximity
🌴 Grumpy-meets-sunshine (again) energy
☀️ Running into ‘that’ ex at the worst possible moment
🌴 Fresh starts disguised as messy vacations
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews