♡ Moon Is BookMarked ♡

Thank you to Netgalley the Publisher, of Summer Stars Publishing, and the author Philippa Young, for providing and allowing me to review this book. Which, I'm giving my honest and sincere review.

More Than Shipmates has a vibrant and inviting cover – it truly is the most beautiful summer cover I have ever seen.

The story follows Eliza Chapman, who feels she's never quite measured up in life. Failing to get into drama school, struggling with relationships, and even faltering in her role as her brother’s PA, Eliza is ready for a change. She decides to start fresh as an entertainment host on a six-month Caribbean cruise, embracing the motto “work hard, play hard.”

Eliza is determined to keep her romantic life separate from her professional life, swearing off men entirely. However, her resolve is tested as she navigates the dynamic and sometimes scandalous nightlife of the cruise, where she finds herself caught between the charming Brit, Oscar, and the cheeky American, Tom. The chemistry and tension between the characters create a steamy and captivating romantic comedy. 

One of the plot’s strongest points is the well-drawn character development and the evolving relationships. Eliza's journey of self-discovery and her efforts to break free from her past mistakes are both relatable and inspiring. Her growth throughout the book is evident as she learns to balance her career ambitions with her personal desires, ultimately realizing that it's possible to have both success and love without compromising on either.

The interactions with Tom and Oscar are filled with wit, humor, and a genuine sense of connection, making the reader eagerly turn pages to see how things unfold. The romance is steamy yet tasteful, and the comedic elements are perfectly timed, adding light-hearted moments that balance out the tension. There are plenty of steamy situations that make it clear this is an adult book, from late-night escapades to intense, flirtatious encounters that push Eliza's resolve to its limits. Although I’m not usually a fan of love triangles, this one was exceptionally well done and kept me engaged.

Philippa Young masterfully captures the essence of starting over and the excitement of new beginnings, all set against the backdrop of a luxurious Caribbean cruise. The setting itself adds a layer of escapism, transporting readers to a world of sun, sea, and endless possibilities.

"More Than Shipmates" is a delightful read, perfect for anyone looking for a tension-filled, romantic comedy set against the backdrop of a tropical adventure. It’s a story about finding oneself, embracing change, and opening up to love, no matter how unexpected it might be.

Thank you to Netgalley the Publisher, of Dreamscape Media, and the author Katie Bailey for providing and allowing me to review this book. Which, I'm giving my honest and sincere review.

I was instantly captivated by the charming premise and relatable characters. This delightful rom-com had me laughing, swooning, and rooting for love from start to finish.

Summary: Holly Greene is on a determined quest to find her Prince Charming. Her detailed plan for happily ever after doesn’t include falling for a bad-boy bartender like Jax Grainger. Jax is everything Holly is not looking for: witty, smart-mouthed, and a staunch non-believer in love. He’s the quintessential bad boy who views love as nothing more than a four-letter word.

Holly, however, is undeterred. After Jax rescues her from a disastrous date, she realizes that he could be the perfect ally in her search for Mr. Right. Despite not checking any of her boxes, Jax agrees to help Holly navigate the dating scene. The catch? Holly just needs to stick to her plan and avoid falling for the charming bartender herself.

Review: "The Quit List" is an absolute gem. From the very first page, I found myself hooked by Katie Bailey’s engaging writing style and the undeniable chemistry between Holly and Jax. Holly is endearing in her determination to find true love, and her interactions with Jax are both hilarious and heartwarming. Jax, with his bad boy charm and hidden depths, makes for an irresistible love interest.

The dynamic between Holly and Jax is the highlight of the book. Their banter is sharp, witty, and often laugh-out-loud funny. Holly’s earnest quest for love juxtaposed with Jax’s cynical view of romance creates a perfect tension that keeps you eagerly turning pages. As they navigate Holly’s list of potential suitors, the growing attraction between them becomes impossible to ignore.

Bailey does a fantastic job of developing her characters, making them feel real and relatable. Holly’s optimism and determination are inspiring, while Jax’s gradual softening and vulnerability add depth to his character. The supporting cast, including Holly’s friends and the various dates she goes on, add color and humor to the story.

The plot is well-paced, balancing humor and heart in equal measure. Holly’s journey to find love is filled with both comedic mishaps and poignant moments, making for a thoroughly enjoyable read. The eventual realization of Holly and Jax’s feelings for each other is satisfying and heartwarming, providing the perfect conclusion to their story.

Conclusion: Reading "The Quit List" by Katie Bailey was a delightful experience. It’s a heartwarming and hilarious rom-com that explores the unpredictability of love and the importance of finding someone who truly understands you. If you’re a fan of witty banter, charming characters, and feel-good romance, this book is a must-read. It’s a reminder that sometimes love can be found in the most unexpected places and that the journey to finding it can be just as rewarding as the destination.