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The Break-Up Agency
Falling in love can be complicated—especially when you’ve already broken up.
Ellie Shaw loves love. Unfortunately, she’s also an expert in break-ups. When a friend needs help with her ‘too nice to dump’ boyfriend, Ellie agrees to help. What she doesn’t expect is for American Dan to be kind, caring, to love dogs and look like a Disney hero. In other words, completely too good to be true.
She lets him down with grace and, encouraged by her friends, sets up Softer Landings, offering kinder, gentler break-ups.
A year later American Dan reappears in her life. With a new girlfriend. One who also decides he’s not the one for her.
The team hatch a plan to let Dan down easy, but while Ellie attempts to lead him gently away, real sparks start to fly. There’s just one big problem she can’t ignore. Can Ellie reveal that their romance is the result of an elaborate con without it feeling like a huge betrayal? Or is she about to star in the most awful dumping of all time?
Ellie Shaw loves love. Unfortunately, she’s also an expert in break-ups. When a friend needs help with her ‘too nice to dump’ boyfriend, Ellie agrees to help. What she doesn’t expect is for American Dan to be kind, caring, to love dogs and look like a Disney hero. In other words, completely too good to be true.
She lets him down with grace and, encouraged by her friends, sets up Softer Landings, offering kinder, gentler break-ups.
A year later American Dan reappears in her life. With a new girlfriend. One who also decides he’s not the one for her.
The team hatch a plan to let Dan down easy, but while Ellie attempts to lead him gently away, real sparks start to fly. There’s just one big problem she can’t ignore. Can Ellie reveal that their romance is the result of an elaborate con without it feeling like a huge betrayal? Or is she about to star in the most awful dumping of all time?
360 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 4, 2022
291 people are currently reading
4595 people want to read
About the author
Sheila McClure
5 books49 followersSheila is the writer formerly known as Daisy Tate and Annie O'Neil. This is the real her! If you enjoyed her women's fiction and romcoms and romances, please do give The Break-Up Agency a whirl. She lives (and works) on a small farm, loves dogs, cake, Scotland, pickles and fruit pie. Well...all pie, really. She loves to hear from readers, so please drop her a line if you fancy.
This is her first RomCom for Lake Union Publishing, inspired by a friend who wanted to launch into the dating scene, but who struggled with breaking up with the ones who weren't quite the right fit.
This is her first RomCom for Lake Union Publishing, inspired by a friend who wanted to launch into the dating scene, but who struggled with breaking up with the ones who weren't quite the right fit.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 150 reviews
December 9, 2023
**Such a fun story, and the audiobook was stellar!** Ellie is a little lost in London. She is no longer with her boyfriend, the reason she moved to London. She isn't crazy about her current job, and feels as though she has no close friends. Now, if you are a frequent romcom reader, you know that break ups, lousy jobs, and no friends usually leads to love. But not so fast! Ellie doesn't find love instead she finds a new career path. Softer Landings, where she helps people break up with their partners, in a kinder gentler way. I thought the idea of this “break up agency“ was quite clever, made me wonder if there is actually such a thing? Ellie was a sympathetic character. I really wanted her to find her confidence and realize her self-worth. Thea and Simon, her coworkers, who eventually become her friends were definitely colorful characters.
Now there is some romance in the story, it's just very complicated. Ellie is certain that “American Dan “is perfect for her, the problem is, he’s in a relationship or out of the country for most of the book. I did like Dan I just was a bit conflicted with the entire situation. Both he and Ellie were hiding things. But don’t fear there is a character in the story that will steal your heart, Gus, the dog! absolutely adored that furry guy, he absolutely stole the show.
**I listened to the audiobook, which was narrated by Imogen Church, who is one of my favorite narrators. She did an amazing job of bringing all these characters to life. If you are an audiobook person, I definitely recommend.** And bonus. It is available in Audiobook and Ebook on KU in the US.
**Big thank you to Lake Union for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own.**
October 12, 2022
When life gave her a lemon, Ellie made it a lemonade. She built herself a new life, kind of a random one but it works for her. Then the man she has a crush on comes back into her life. There’s a dog, he kind of belongs to both of them. There are also a lot of side characters.
This book has the classic romcom plot. A heroine with a non-job, quirky side characters, a cute dog and the obligatory airport climax scene. I did have a hard time at the beginning, I thought it was a bit hard-to-follow and the book itself is too long in my opinion. I feel like there was a lot of filler and lots of things could’ve been cut short. However, it was a fun romcom and the more I read, the more I got into it.
***
Many thanks to NetGalley, the author and the publishing team for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This book has the classic romcom plot. A heroine with a non-job, quirky side characters, a cute dog and the obligatory airport climax scene. I did have a hard time at the beginning, I thought it was a bit hard-to-follow and the book itself is too long in my opinion. I feel like there was a lot of filler and lots of things could’ve been cut short. However, it was a fun romcom and the more I read, the more I got into it.
***
Many thanks to NetGalley, the author and the publishing team for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
December 19, 2025
The chapters are so long. I really tried with this novel but just... couldn't.
The author does try to include sarcastic situations but they just aren't humorous. The characters seemed too mopey at times.
The author does try to include sarcastic situations but they just aren't humorous. The characters seemed too mopey at times.
October 15, 2022
4☆ A Fun Romance
The Break-Up Agency is a Witty, Fun Rom Com and I enjoyed it. However It did take a lil while to get into the swing of the story and the characters.
You read so many books about dating agencies but you never read books with a reverse angle.... a Break-Up Agency. It's such an interesting and quirky concept.
I mean it's not easy breaking up with someone, so why not hire someone else to do it for you! Genius right!
Well that's exactly the position Ellie finds herself in. She's great at it so why not make a business from it and that's how Softer Landing was created! But things aren't always smooth sailing as she's about to find out when feelings get in the way!
If your looking for a Witty, light hearted romp with a good few giggles and a dash of Romance, then grab a copy of The Break-Up Agency!
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources and Lake Union Publishing / Amazon for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
You can Find this Review and all my Other Reviews on My Blog :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2022/1...
The Break-Up Agency is a Witty, Fun Rom Com and I enjoyed it. However It did take a lil while to get into the swing of the story and the characters.
You read so many books about dating agencies but you never read books with a reverse angle.... a Break-Up Agency. It's such an interesting and quirky concept.
I mean it's not easy breaking up with someone, so why not hire someone else to do it for you! Genius right!
Well that's exactly the position Ellie finds herself in. She's great at it so why not make a business from it and that's how Softer Landing was created! But things aren't always smooth sailing as she's about to find out when feelings get in the way!
If your looking for a Witty, light hearted romp with a good few giggles and a dash of Romance, then grab a copy of The Break-Up Agency!
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources and Lake Union Publishing / Amazon for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
You can Find this Review and all my Other Reviews on My Blog :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2022/1...
October 7, 2022
I really enjoyed this. My favourite characters were America Dan and Elle Shaw. The secondary characters were good as well. I took a dislike to Vee Ellie’s boss.
This had everything I like in a book. Great characters, funny, dating. And social media. I look forward to reading more from Shelia.
This is out October 4th.
Thanks goes to net galley and the publishers for proving me with a copy in exchange for an honest review and the author for writing it.
This had everything I like in a book. Great characters, funny, dating. And social media. I look forward to reading more from Shelia.
This is out October 4th.
Thanks goes to net galley and the publishers for proving me with a copy in exchange for an honest review and the author for writing it.
October 19, 2022
What an interesting premise for those who hate conflict (and I am one of them). This was a cute, fun, and witty read, but maybe a little too long (really, it felt like it went on forever). The story was engaging enough but could have been much shorter and told the same story. Still, it is well written and I enjoyed my time with Ellie, Dan, and Gus. Recommended for a long plane ride or a vacation with tons of time to read.
I received a copy from #NetGalley for an honest review.
I received a copy from #NetGalley for an honest review.
March 11, 2023
This was absolutely adorable. The writing was solid for the most part, and I thought the characters were cute, too. Honestly, and this is thrice repetitive... but cute. The word for this book is CUTE. I would recommend if you like sweet romances, a little Briticism throw in, with a darling doggy.
My main drawbacks were lack of Dan and Ellie time. I wanted to see them together way more. A lot felt glossed over and tied up with a cute bow.
But we ain't that mad at it. I genuinely enjoyed it and would give it a.3.5 if GR would gimme half stars.
My main drawbacks were lack of Dan and Ellie time. I wanted to see them together way more. A lot felt glossed over and tied up with a cute bow.
But we ain't that mad at it. I genuinely enjoyed it and would give it a.3.5 if GR would gimme half stars.
October 7, 2022
If there's one thing that I like doing it's discovering new authors. Sheila McClure is certainly a new author for me. I read the synopsis of 'The Break-Up Agency' and it certainly sounded like the sort of light hearted and fun sort of read that I particularly enjoy. So I grabbed a cup of tea, grabbed my Kindle and settled down for what proved to be an interesting afternoon of reading. Overall I did enjoyed reading 'The Break-Up Agency' but more about that in a bit.
I have to be honest and say that it took me a little while to get into this book which has more to do with the fact that I wasn't well when I started to read and I was therefore finding it difficult to concentrate. After a while, I did get into the story and from then on I found it hard to put the book down for any length of time. Part of the reason why I enjoyed the story has to do with the fact that I loved the character of Ellie and of course the adorable sounding Gus, who is actually a dog. In fact I can't honestly think of a character that I didn't like. I had my own suspicions as to what was going to happen and so of course I had to keep reading to see if I was on the right track or if I had wandered in the opposite direction. I would become so wrapped up in the story that I lost all track of time and just how quickly I was getting through the story,, All too quickly I reached the end of 'The Break-Up Agency' and I had to say goodbye to Ellie, Gus and the rest of the characters. i found 'The Break-Up Agency' to be a lovely read, with lots of fun, laughter and warm hearted moments. 'The Break-Up Agency' left me feeling as though I had had a hug from a mug of hot chocolate and it left me feeling all warm and fuzzy inside.
'The Break-Up Agency' is well written. The author has an easy going writing style that is easy to get used to and easy to get along with. In fact reading this book felt more like a chat between friends rather than readiny an actual book. I hope that makes sense. Sheila clearly cares about her characters and this shines through in the very vivid and realistic way in which she describes them. She makes them seem just as real as you and I. For me, the story hit the ground running and maintained a steady pace throughout. This book had the perfect mix of drama, heart warming moments and a lot of humour thrown in for good measure. I loved the way in which the author makes the reader feel as though they are part of the story and at the heart of the action. That's how I felt at any rate.
In short and overall I did enjoyed reading 'The Break-Up Agency' and I would recommend this book to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of her work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 4* out of 5*.
I have to be honest and say that it took me a little while to get into this book which has more to do with the fact that I wasn't well when I started to read and I was therefore finding it difficult to concentrate. After a while, I did get into the story and from then on I found it hard to put the book down for any length of time. Part of the reason why I enjoyed the story has to do with the fact that I loved the character of Ellie and of course the adorable sounding Gus, who is actually a dog. In fact I can't honestly think of a character that I didn't like. I had my own suspicions as to what was going to happen and so of course I had to keep reading to see if I was on the right track or if I had wandered in the opposite direction. I would become so wrapped up in the story that I lost all track of time and just how quickly I was getting through the story,, All too quickly I reached the end of 'The Break-Up Agency' and I had to say goodbye to Ellie, Gus and the rest of the characters. i found 'The Break-Up Agency' to be a lovely read, with lots of fun, laughter and warm hearted moments. 'The Break-Up Agency' left me feeling as though I had had a hug from a mug of hot chocolate and it left me feeling all warm and fuzzy inside.
'The Break-Up Agency' is well written. The author has an easy going writing style that is easy to get used to and easy to get along with. In fact reading this book felt more like a chat between friends rather than readiny an actual book. I hope that makes sense. Sheila clearly cares about her characters and this shines through in the very vivid and realistic way in which she describes them. She makes them seem just as real as you and I. For me, the story hit the ground running and maintained a steady pace throughout. This book had the perfect mix of drama, heart warming moments and a lot of humour thrown in for good measure. I loved the way in which the author makes the reader feel as though they are part of the story and at the heart of the action. That's how I felt at any rate.
In short and overall I did enjoyed reading 'The Break-Up Agency' and I would recommend this book to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of her work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 4* out of 5*.
September 17, 2022
I really enjoyed Ella's story. Sure she had a tough job but hey someone has to do it. I really love how the author constructed her world. The side characters were entertaining and added value to the story. I will recommend this story to others.
September 22, 2022
I’m sure I smiled throughout reading this book, with its warmth, wit and joy. It’s like McClure is telling you Ellie’s story from the other end of the sofa. There’s a dreamy, kind hero, a gorgeous hound and shenanigans galore as selfless Ellie endeavors to let hearts down lightly, while overlooking her own. The Break-up Agency is an absolute heart-warming hoot.
March 20, 2023
When Ellie helps her friend break up with the American guy she's seeing, Ellie doesn't expect to see him again. It's a shame as he seems like such a nice guy. When he turns up again with another woman who wants to break up with him, Ellie is shocked. Especially when the two of them seem to get along themselves. As they get closer, Ellie knows she needs to let Dan know about her break up agency.
This was a super cute read that I really enjoyed. I loved all the characters and the storyline. The only downside would be that perhaps the book was a little too long but otherwise I have nothing but good things to say. If you like romcoms, this one should be on your shelf.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
This was a super cute read that I really enjoyed. I loved all the characters and the storyline. The only downside would be that perhaps the book was a little too long but otherwise I have nothing but good things to say. If you like romcoms, this one should be on your shelf.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
October 13, 2022
This is my first book by Sheila McClure (and I say this because she’s previously written under different pen names) and it’s really lucky that I love books far more than money (because I’m never going to have money) as I am now off for her books prior to this (now I just need time to read all the books)
I loved Ellie so much, maybe not as much as Gus, but that’s understandable (Gus is a dog and automatically sits far higher than humans). All the characters to be fair are really relatable, which is what makes them so likeable. This is such a great read, once you get into it you won’t want to put it down, it’s such a lovely, warm hearted read, full of fun, humour and of course romance. It’s got the mix just right, a little drama, but of action, full of heart.
This is such a sweet story, I loved how Sheila managed to keep me surprised, I love it when I don’t see things coming. It’s a big thumbs up from me, it’s full of uplifting romance and it’s got Gus, Gus could sell it on his own.
Thanks to Sheila McClure and Rachel’s Random Resources for a free copy in exchange for an honest review, all opinions are my own and freely given.
I loved Ellie so much, maybe not as much as Gus, but that’s understandable (Gus is a dog and automatically sits far higher than humans). All the characters to be fair are really relatable, which is what makes them so likeable. This is such a great read, once you get into it you won’t want to put it down, it’s such a lovely, warm hearted read, full of fun, humour and of course romance. It’s got the mix just right, a little drama, but of action, full of heart.
This is such a sweet story, I loved how Sheila managed to keep me surprised, I love it when I don’t see things coming. It’s a big thumbs up from me, it’s full of uplifting romance and it’s got Gus, Gus could sell it on his own.
Thanks to Sheila McClure and Rachel’s Random Resources for a free copy in exchange for an honest review, all opinions are my own and freely given.
October 2, 2022
I had a lot of fun reading Sheila McClure's debut, The Break-Up Agency! I definitely recommend this very sweet & swoony (clean) romance to anyone looking for something heartwarming and a good time, and a book that isn't going to bring you down. Not too angsty, a lot of heart, and so very many good feels!
There is a whole lot going on in this novel - poor Ellie Shaw has been relegated to being the one her (younger) sister makes break up with all of her boyfriends. It's generally the same poor sod over and over again (spoiler alert - not really - the sister is now marrying that guy!). She's become so good at it, that she's created a side business out of it, "Softer Landings," to help others break up with their partners in a kinder way. She's even brought in 2 of her closest friends and work colleagues. When her boss lets her go as office manager, but lets her stay in the company to do this full time, allowing the friends to devote a certain number of hours per week to it, while somehow backing it, she thinks she just might have it made - until the guy that her one friend had her break up with a year ago (and left his dog with when he fled the country to follow his dreams), and she has been pining over ever since, is back... and his new, perfect girlfriend? She needs her services.
Ellie has to figure out how to break up with the perfect "America Dan" a second time, while also in love with him, trying to keep her (his?) dog from being taken back, and trying to use a new technique the new girlfriend has suggested... making him fall in love with her to make the breakup easier all around. What could go wrong - except literally everything.
This was the sweetest book I have read in quite a while, and there are so many surprises that keep popping up, especially with a twist at the end, that just makes so many things even more special and made me love it even more. A definite recommendation for anyone who loves love, and romance in general - looking for an uplifting read! I couldn't put this one down.
I received an advance review copy from NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK, Lake Union Publishing, and this is my honest feedback and review.
There is a whole lot going on in this novel - poor Ellie Shaw has been relegated to being the one her (younger) sister makes break up with all of her boyfriends. It's generally the same poor sod over and over again (spoiler alert - not really - the sister is now marrying that guy!). She's become so good at it, that she's created a side business out of it, "Softer Landings," to help others break up with their partners in a kinder way. She's even brought in 2 of her closest friends and work colleagues. When her boss lets her go as office manager, but lets her stay in the company to do this full time, allowing the friends to devote a certain number of hours per week to it, while somehow backing it, she thinks she just might have it made - until the guy that her one friend had her break up with a year ago (and left his dog with when he fled the country to follow his dreams), and she has been pining over ever since, is back... and his new, perfect girlfriend? She needs her services.
Ellie has to figure out how to break up with the perfect "America Dan" a second time, while also in love with him, trying to keep her (his?) dog from being taken back, and trying to use a new technique the new girlfriend has suggested... making him fall in love with her to make the breakup easier all around. What could go wrong - except literally everything.
This was the sweetest book I have read in quite a while, and there are so many surprises that keep popping up, especially with a twist at the end, that just makes so many things even more special and made me love it even more. A definite recommendation for anyone who loves love, and romance in general - looking for an uplifting read! I couldn't put this one down.
I received an advance review copy from NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK, Lake Union Publishing, and this is my honest feedback and review.
October 14, 2022
I adored this book, it was everything a Rom-com should be. A main character who id love to hang out with (Ellie), a love interest im completely crushing on (American Dan), a couple of brilliant best friends plus … an amazing doggie- Gus.
The book tells the story of how Ellie sets up her business - Softer Landings - after helping her friend gently break up with a man. What Ellis doesn’t expect though is that she’ll fall head over heels in love with one of the ‘dumpees’.
It’s a brilliant story, the plot covering many aspects of modern life and touching on sensitive matters which I don’t want to mention here and create spoilers - you need to enjoy this book spoiler free!
There is, of course, a happy ending and I was grinning from ear to ear as I read the final chapters. I was SO invested in Ellie and American Dan it was ridiculous!
A brilliant book which I highly recommend. If you’re a fan of Rom-come I think you’ll find this one irresistible!
The book tells the story of how Ellie sets up her business - Softer Landings - after helping her friend gently break up with a man. What Ellis doesn’t expect though is that she’ll fall head over heels in love with one of the ‘dumpees’.
It’s a brilliant story, the plot covering many aspects of modern life and touching on sensitive matters which I don’t want to mention here and create spoilers - you need to enjoy this book spoiler free!
There is, of course, a happy ending and I was grinning from ear to ear as I read the final chapters. I was SO invested in Ellie and American Dan it was ridiculous!
A brilliant book which I highly recommend. If you’re a fan of Rom-come I think you’ll find this one irresistible!
March 3, 2023
**review to come**
December 6, 2022
3.5 stars. Quick easy romantic story!
October 14, 2022
OMG!!! ABSOLUTELY AMAZING😍👏🏾
Never in a million years would I have thought someone could pull together a book about an agency for break-ups😱 this book is phenomenally brilliant and catchy!!! This is a must read.
Never in a million years would I have thought someone could pull together a book about an agency for break-ups😱 this book is phenomenally brilliant and catchy!!! This is a must read.
October 5, 2022
This is an entertaining premise for this story and one which I enjoyed very much. Ellie Shaw is a likeable, well-meaning character and her friends and colleagues add such a lot of humour to the story. That is not to say that they do not have some serious issues at home, but rather that they are drawn as lively and interesting characters. Of course, Gus the dog actually steals the show and he fills such a void in both Ellie and American Dan's lives.
Ellie is motivated by the desire to stop people suffering from heartbreak and rejection. She sets up her solution to this through her agency. I loved the answers she got to her initial questionnaires and the reasons people gave for wanting to break up with their other half. There are some poignant moments but the overwhelming feeling of the book is one of warmth and humour. I loved the final chapters of the story. They are perfectly judged.
In short: a romcom full of warmth and fun
Thanks to the publisher for a copy of the book
Ellie is motivated by the desire to stop people suffering from heartbreak and rejection. She sets up her solution to this through her agency. I loved the answers she got to her initial questionnaires and the reasons people gave for wanting to break up with their other half. There are some poignant moments but the overwhelming feeling of the book is one of warmth and humour. I loved the final chapters of the story. They are perfectly judged.
In short: a romcom full of warmth and fun
Thanks to the publisher for a copy of the book
October 10, 2022
I liked the premise, imagine getting paid for handle it other people break ups... I love the story and I love the characters. It's just a circle perfect book.
Want to read
October 8, 2022I love love LOVED this book! It was a heart warming, feel good, non sappy kind of romance story with just the right amount of spark. All of the main characters show so much personal growth from where they started, and like any good love story... happy endings all around 🥰
April 7, 2023
this book is a CUTE romance book. a TRUE YA romace book.
I'm going to be honest I was going to rate this lower until I got toward the end.. This book is more than a romance book. The romance in it was sweet but I loved seeing the friendships grow in this book. The ending of this book does talk about a few rougher topics and it's pretty heavy but it is honestly a very good read
I'm going to be honest I was going to rate this lower until I got toward the end.. This book is more than a romance book. The romance in it was sweet but I loved seeing the friendships grow in this book. The ending of this book does talk about a few rougher topics and it's pretty heavy but it is honestly a very good read
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September 26, 2022
"It's a big responsibility, dabbling in other people's relationships."
While the premise/outline of the story was an interesting concept, the writing and characterization fell flat and the pacing was all over the place. Truth be told, had this not been an ARC I probably would have DNF'd, it was that much of a slog to get through.
Let's get the first big note out of the way - this is a contemporary fiction novel, NOT a romance. While filled with deep longing and pining by our MFC, Ellie, there is ZERO romance in this book until about the 85% mark, but even then I'd be hard-pressed to label it as 'romance', as their relationship (Ellie & American Dan's) is wrapped up in a cheating/OW scenario.
My biggest gripe is that Ellie is just not a likeable protagonist. She comes across as whiny and judgemental without any aspect of introspection to her own behaviours. Hers is a life full of deception - she's lying to her family about her current relationship status, she's lying to her coworkers about her personal life and background, she's lying to American Dan (yes, he's always called that...never just 'Dan') about her true feelings and what she does for a living, but most of all she's lying to herself. She spends a lot of time "thinking deep thoughts," but there's too much telling and not enough showing. Even though they're described as 30-somethings (we later find that Ellie is 28), tonally it reads very YA with the jargon, slang, behaviours, reactions, and treatment of one-another. "Ellie made a silly boo-boo face"...seriously, that line is pulled from the book. Ellie's big character arc is to overcome her pride, and had that been developed or given more focus rather than including some other ridiculous and pointless plot-points (seriously, what was the point of including a side-character's dying partner other than for said side-character to blow up at everyone to 'seize the day because you never know when it's your last'), I may have enjoyed it a bit more, but otherwise it's just fluff with no real substance.
Thank you Netgalley and the publishers for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
While the premise/outline of the story was an interesting concept, the writing and characterization fell flat and the pacing was all over the place. Truth be told, had this not been an ARC I probably would have DNF'd, it was that much of a slog to get through.
Let's get the first big note out of the way - this is a contemporary fiction novel, NOT a romance. While filled with deep longing and pining by our MFC, Ellie, there is ZERO romance in this book until about the 85% mark, but even then I'd be hard-pressed to label it as 'romance', as their relationship (Ellie & American Dan's) is wrapped up in a cheating/OW scenario.
My biggest gripe is that Ellie is just not a likeable protagonist. She comes across as whiny and judgemental without any aspect of introspection to her own behaviours. Hers is a life full of deception - she's lying to her family about her current relationship status, she's lying to her coworkers about her personal life and background, she's lying to American Dan (yes, he's always called that...never just 'Dan') about her true feelings and what she does for a living, but most of all she's lying to herself. She spends a lot of time "thinking deep thoughts," but there's too much telling and not enough showing. Even though they're described as 30-somethings (we later find that Ellie is 28), tonally it reads very YA with the jargon, slang, behaviours, reactions, and treatment of one-another. "Ellie made a silly boo-boo face"...seriously, that line is pulled from the book. Ellie's big character arc is to overcome her pride, and had that been developed or given more focus rather than including some other ridiculous and pointless plot-points (seriously, what was the point of including a side-character's dying partner other than for said side-character to blow up at everyone to 'seize the day because you never know when it's your last'), I may have enjoyed it a bit more, but otherwise it's just fluff with no real substance.
Thank you Netgalley and the publishers for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
October 1, 2022
This was a fun romance by the author. I thoroughly enjoyed the character development and look forward to reading many more.
September 26, 2022
This was such a sweet rom-com! I loved American Dan and Gus the service dog! The first meeting between Dan and Ellie was adorable.
It started a bit slow, but then picked up. Although the plot was kind of predictable, it was still a really cute mash-up of tropes. There's a bit of fake dating, friends to lovers, and soul mates sprinkled here and there.
If only all break-ups could be handled by Ellie and Softer Landings.
Thanks to Amazon Publishing and NetGalley for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
It started a bit slow, but then picked up. Although the plot was kind of predictable, it was still a really cute mash-up of tropes. There's a bit of fake dating, friends to lovers, and soul mates sprinkled here and there.
If only all break-ups could be handled by Ellie and Softer Landings.
Thanks to Amazon Publishing and NetGalley for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 5, 2022
I thought this was a really fun premise for a book when I first read the blurb on the blog tour invitation. What is there were an agency who could guide you through a relationship break up in a way that minimised the heartache for all the parties involved? Sounds like a good idea, right? But, once you dig down into it, is it really a moral thing to do, interfering in relationships where one party has no idea of your involvement?
This is the dilemma at the heart of the book and one which the author explores with gusto over the course of a light-hearted, romantic and engaging plot filled with lovable characters, many mishaps and the most gorgeous dog ever penned on the page. I think Gus was the character who most stole my heart in this story, but Ellie and Dan weren’t too far behind.
The book was just as fun as I expected, but actually left me very warm and fuzzy and uplifted at the end. I am going through an emotionally tough time currently and I am finding it difficult to focus on reading in a way that I have never encountered before. However, The Break-Up Agency managed to pierce through this emotional fog and engage me in a way that few books have done recently. You can tell that the author really loved the story and characters she was creating here, which made me love them too and I thoroughly enjoyed it from start to finish.
My favourite bits of the story were the break-up anecdotes scattered throughout the book as the agency deals with a multitude of different clients and scenarios. These were as funny and shocking as you can imagine. Aside from these, the scene at the charity run was really moving and almost brought me to tears. This author has great skill in weaving humour and pathos together to make something really special. This is a beautiful, engaging and entertaining book that I loved and have not hesitation in recommending to one and all.
This is the dilemma at the heart of the book and one which the author explores with gusto over the course of a light-hearted, romantic and engaging plot filled with lovable characters, many mishaps and the most gorgeous dog ever penned on the page. I think Gus was the character who most stole my heart in this story, but Ellie and Dan weren’t too far behind.
The book was just as fun as I expected, but actually left me very warm and fuzzy and uplifted at the end. I am going through an emotionally tough time currently and I am finding it difficult to focus on reading in a way that I have never encountered before. However, The Break-Up Agency managed to pierce through this emotional fog and engage me in a way that few books have done recently. You can tell that the author really loved the story and characters she was creating here, which made me love them too and I thoroughly enjoyed it from start to finish.
My favourite bits of the story were the break-up anecdotes scattered throughout the book as the agency deals with a multitude of different clients and scenarios. These were as funny and shocking as you can imagine. Aside from these, the scene at the charity run was really moving and almost brought me to tears. This author has great skill in weaving humour and pathos together to make something really special. This is a beautiful, engaging and entertaining book that I loved and have not hesitation in recommending to one and all.
July 30, 2022
Need to break up with someone? Ellie and her co-workers at Softer Landings will do that for you. Their goal is to offer gentle break ups. As Ellie has been offered to take this company to a higher level, the break-up that started it all is back. Dan was not her ex, but as Ellie was breaking up with him for his girlfriend, she fell in love with him. She also ended up acquiring his dog. Now that he’s back and has a girlfriend, his current girlfriend decide she wants to break up with him.
As I read about the premise of this book, it sounded very interesting. As I started reading the book, there were parts that hooked me, but a lot that started to lose me. The relationship that Ellie had with her coworkers was a very confusing one. She worked with them in her day job but also at Softer Landings, but she also socialized with them outside of work, even though she did not seem to consider them friends. I also did not like the way they appeared to treat her. Simon seemed to be OK, but I did not like Thea. Also, it was just not realistic how she instantly fell in love with Dan while she was breaking up with him for Thea. And, he just instantly handed over his dog, just like that? And the whole business that all of them worked at during the day was just very confusing. I think the plot had a good outline but I think everything in between could have been better.
I definitely will give this book a second read at a later time. That may help process details and make the story make more sense later on.
Thank you to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for this ARC. Our thoughts and opinions are mine.
As I read about the premise of this book, it sounded very interesting. As I started reading the book, there were parts that hooked me, but a lot that started to lose me. The relationship that Ellie had with her coworkers was a very confusing one. She worked with them in her day job but also at Softer Landings, but she also socialized with them outside of work, even though she did not seem to consider them friends. I also did not like the way they appeared to treat her. Simon seemed to be OK, but I did not like Thea. Also, it was just not realistic how she instantly fell in love with Dan while she was breaking up with him for Thea. And, he just instantly handed over his dog, just like that? And the whole business that all of them worked at during the day was just very confusing. I think the plot had a good outline but I think everything in between could have been better.
I definitely will give this book a second read at a later time. That may help process details and make the story make more sense later on.
Thank you to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for this ARC. Our thoughts and opinions are mine.
July 20, 2022
Ellie Shaw loves love. Unfortunately, she’s also an expert in break-ups. When a friend needs help with her ‘too nice to dump’ boyfriend, Ellie agrees to help. What she doesn’t expect is for American Dan to be kind, caring, to love dogs and look like a Disney hero. In other words, completely too good to be true.
She lets him down with grace and, encouraged by her friends, sets up Softer Landings, offering kinder, gentler break-ups.
A year later American Dan reappears in her life. With a new girlfriend. One who also decides he’s not the one for her.
The team hatch a plan to let Dan down easy, but while Ellie attempts to lead him gently away, real sparks start to fly. There’s just one big problem she can’t ignore. Can Ellie reveal that their romance is the result of an elaborate con without it feeling like a huge betrayal? Or is she about to star in the most awful dumping of all time?
Couldn’t put it down really enjoyable read totally recommend
Thank You NetGalley and Amazon Publishing Uk
I just reviewed The Break-Up Agency by Sheila McClure. #TheBreakUpAgency #NetGalley
She lets him down with grace and, encouraged by her friends, sets up Softer Landings, offering kinder, gentler break-ups.
A year later American Dan reappears in her life. With a new girlfriend. One who also decides he’s not the one for her.
The team hatch a plan to let Dan down easy, but while Ellie attempts to lead him gently away, real sparks start to fly. There’s just one big problem she can’t ignore. Can Ellie reveal that their romance is the result of an elaborate con without it feeling like a huge betrayal? Or is she about to star in the most awful dumping of all time?
Couldn’t put it down really enjoyable read totally recommend
Thank You NetGalley and Amazon Publishing Uk
I just reviewed The Break-Up Agency by Sheila McClure. #TheBreakUpAgency #NetGalley
February 8, 2023
The story
When her friend Thea asks Ellie to break up with her boyfriend, “American Dan”, Ellie turns her skill into a business. Ellie works at a recruitment company by day and by night has the “break-up agency”. With her soft heart, she wants to make sure break ups aren’t painful and there is light at the end of the tunnel to give hope. But Ellie really wants more from her relationship with Dan, and not just to be his fellow dog-mom friend.
My thoughts
This is a sweet and different premise for a story. Ellie is extremely nice and kind and maybe a bit too nice for her own good. The start of the story jumps forward and backwards in time which was confusing, and there is a lot of angsty-ness. Ellie and Dan have strong feelings for each other, but keep these very hidden. They also seem to keep other key facts about their lives from each other, in the spirit of this being a “romcom”. I enjoyed the break up examples and how the threesome got really creative to get the job done well.
I read an eARC copy courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher
My rating 3.5/5 - ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 💫
When her friend Thea asks Ellie to break up with her boyfriend, “American Dan”, Ellie turns her skill into a business. Ellie works at a recruitment company by day and by night has the “break-up agency”. With her soft heart, she wants to make sure break ups aren’t painful and there is light at the end of the tunnel to give hope. But Ellie really wants more from her relationship with Dan, and not just to be his fellow dog-mom friend.
My thoughts
This is a sweet and different premise for a story. Ellie is extremely nice and kind and maybe a bit too nice for her own good. The start of the story jumps forward and backwards in time which was confusing, and there is a lot of angsty-ness. Ellie and Dan have strong feelings for each other, but keep these very hidden. They also seem to keep other key facts about their lives from each other, in the spirit of this being a “romcom”. I enjoyed the break up examples and how the threesome got really creative to get the job done well.
I read an eARC copy courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher
My rating 3.5/5 - ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 💫
August 18, 2022
First of all I would like to say that romantic stories are not my usual genre pick. I decided that I wanted to branch out and discover new authors to entertain me. The premise of the book made me think, this is going to a sugary sweet story (nothing wrong with that). But, it was a surprisingly cute story. The story is slow to start, but in my opinion I would keep reading because it does get entertaining. There is drama, romance and amusing characters. The book is a nice, light story and definitely a beach read. A story where you can kick back with a margarita and relax with.
Disclaimer: Thank you to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for this ARC, I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Disclaimer: Thank you to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for this ARC, I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 16, 2022
*Spoiler Free* Ellie Shaw is very confident when speaking to others about the reality of their relationships, when it comes to her own life, not so much. I loved the premise of this book and her well-meaning intentions behind Softer Landings, her break-up agency. You can't help but cheer on a character who is truly trying to help her fellow humans. The opening chapter of the book was one where you can't quite figure out what's going on, which I liked. It made me pay attention and once I figured it out, it pulled me right in. With an unusual premise, relatable characters, and a solid plot/side characters, I would definitely recommend this book to others!
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