What do you think?
Rate this book
South Downs Romances #2
Reality In Check
GOLDIE FINALIST 2024: CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE LONG NOVEL
From the multi-award-winning, best-selling author of Broken Beyond Repair comes a new sapphic celebrity ice queen romance � read as a standalone or as the second book in the South Downs Romance series.
Sculptor Arte Tremaine is thrown into the hospitality industry when her beloved late grandmother bequeaths her and her sister a charming yet rundown country hotel with zero guests. Arte is determined to make a success of the business, despite her sister snapping at her heels to sell it and painful memories confronting her inside.
Charlotte Beaufort, heiress to a hotel empire, television celebrity, and self-confessed city woman, hits the countryside to film an episode of her reality television show, Hotel SOS, where she immediately clashes with the overwhelmed Arte and her inquisitive Labrador, Rodin.
Arte doesn’t take kindly to Charlotte’s attitude and frank opinions about her hotel, but when they are thrown together, she begins to realise not everything is as it seems with her attractive nemesis. As Arte begins to chip away at Charlotte's icy exterior, both women begin to realise dreams and reality rarely entwine and that, sometimes, our dreams are not even our own.
Can the artsy dreamer and ambitious heiress face the reality of their situations and discover their true paths? And if so, can those paths lead them toward true love?
From the multi-award-winning, best-selling author of Broken Beyond Repair comes a new sapphic celebrity ice queen romance � read as a standalone or as the second book in the South Downs Romance series.
Sculptor Arte Tremaine is thrown into the hospitality industry when her beloved late grandmother bequeaths her and her sister a charming yet rundown country hotel with zero guests. Arte is determined to make a success of the business, despite her sister snapping at her heels to sell it and painful memories confronting her inside.
Charlotte Beaufort, heiress to a hotel empire, television celebrity, and self-confessed city woman, hits the countryside to film an episode of her reality television show, Hotel SOS, where she immediately clashes with the overwhelmed Arte and her inquisitive Labrador, Rodin.
Arte doesn’t take kindly to Charlotte’s attitude and frank opinions about her hotel, but when they are thrown together, she begins to realise not everything is as it seems with her attractive nemesis. As Arte begins to chip away at Charlotte's icy exterior, both women begin to realise dreams and reality rarely entwine and that, sometimes, our dreams are not even our own.
Can the artsy dreamer and ambitious heiress face the reality of their situations and discover their true paths? And if so, can those paths lead them toward true love?
348 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 8, 2023
253 people are currently reading
1,708 people want to read
About the author
Emily Banting
10books402followersEmily Banting is an award-winning and bestselling author of contemporary sapphic romance featuring LGBTQ+ characters and plenty of British humour. History obsessed, she throws her sapphic leading ladies into historic buildings and environments at every opportunity, and believes strongly in representing women over forty in literature.
Broken Beyond Repair received the following awards:
GOLDIE WINNER 2024: AUDIOBOOK NARRATOR (ANGELA DAWE)
GOLDIE WINNER 2023: THE ANN BANNON POPULAR CHOICE BRONZE AWARD
WINNER OF THE LESFIC BARD AWARD 2022: ROMANCE
WINNER OF THE LESFIC BARD AWARD 2022: COVER DESIGN
WINNER OF THE QUEER INDIE AWARDS 2022: CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE
And a 2023 GCLS Goldie finalist in
CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE LONG NOVEL
The second book in the South Downs Romance Series was a 2024 GCLS Goldie finalist in CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE LONG NOVEL 2024
Join her Readers� Club and receive a free sapphic novella
Hit the "FOLLOW" button for notifications about offers and new releases!
Find her here:
WEBSITE - emilybanting.co.uk
FACEBOOK - @emilybantingauthor
TWITTER - @Emily_Banting
INSTAGRAM - @emilybanting
TIKTOK - @emilybantingauthor
AMAZON -
GOODREADS -
BOOKBUB -
Broken Beyond Repair received the following awards:
GOLDIE WINNER 2024: AUDIOBOOK NARRATOR (ANGELA DAWE)
GOLDIE WINNER 2023: THE ANN BANNON POPULAR CHOICE BRONZE AWARD
WINNER OF THE LESFIC BARD AWARD 2022: ROMANCE
WINNER OF THE LESFIC BARD AWARD 2022: COVER DESIGN
WINNER OF THE QUEER INDIE AWARDS 2022: CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE
And a 2023 GCLS Goldie finalist in
CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE LONG NOVEL
The second book in the South Downs Romance Series was a 2024 GCLS Goldie finalist in CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE LONG NOVEL 2024
Join her Readers� Club and receive a free sapphic novella
Hit the "FOLLOW" button for notifications about offers and new releases!
Find her here:
WEBSITE - emilybanting.co.uk
FACEBOOK - @emilybantingauthor
TWITTER - @Emily_Banting
INSTAGRAM - @emilybanting
TIKTOK - @emilybantingauthor
AMAZON -
GOODREADS -
BOOKBUB -
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 209 reviews
August 12, 2023
When I read the first book in Emily Banting’s Nunswick Abbey series something spoke to me. I loved the story, the writing, the scenery, the humour and so much more. But it was more than all of this. Something also said to me that I need to watch out for more by this author. I mean of course I had to watch out for more. I mean you have to when it’s only book one in a series. 😆 But I also felt that something is in the air and we will definitely hear more from her. On the other hand I would never have thought how many people fall in love with her last one Broken Beyond Repair. Personally I still have more of a soft spot for the Nunswick series. But I better stop talking about her other books now and get to her new one. Sorry. 🫣
If you know Emily’s stories you know she has a thing for age gap and ice queens. So it was somehow a given we get this here again. Add Emily’s wonderful and unique humour, her love for history and details, and you’re in for another great ride. Even though maybe Charlotte isn’t the typical ice queen. 🤔 Or is she? I guess everyone needs to read and decide for themselves on that front. One thing that is for sure her first meeting with Arte is quite something and definitely stuck with me. I felt that in this scene almost everything I love about Emily‘s books is packed in there. An Ice queen, a sweet and adorable other character, history, her humour and well there is food. I confess the last one is new, but I love food so there is that and it comes on my list. 😆
But it’s not only this first meeting that drew me in right away and left me wanting for more. That actually happened right from the start. It’s when Arte wiggled her way into my heart and when I just wanted to take her in my arms. Totally knowing I usually don’t do hugs. But Arte the sweet dreamer just got me there. ☺️ The reminders we get about her gran totally got to me. Including the reminder how suddenly things can change in life. That is so true but we often forget about it. But it’s not only the sweetness in Arte that got to me. It’s also her dreams, her kindness and her fighting spirit. Even though the last one has to fully develop at first.
Charlotte on the other hand couldn’t be more different. While Arte lived her life mostly the way she wanted (minus some things early in life she had no influence on), Charlotte‘s life was drawn for her. It was always sure one day she takes over the hotel empire from her deceased and beloved father. But with a difficult mother (and let me tell you she really is and I was annoyed more than once�) that could be more difficult than expected. Her mother being in charge of the hotels doesn’t seem to step back any time soon and nothing Charlotte does seems to be good enough. The place she can shine is during the reality tv show Hotel SOS.
Sometimes in life it just needs one person or one moment to make us realise how stuck we are somewhere. For me it felt like Arte means that for Charlotte. Arte triggers something in her and makes her question things. But of course it’s a long way to detach yourself from a life that was yours for a long time. There is one scene that is somehow a breaking point for her but also the whole story. It made me cheer and pump my fist into the air. And then shouting finally. 😆
So you see I became quite invested in the characters. 😆 What happens in the story is something I feel like everyone needs to discover for themselves. Especially because I try to avoid any spoilers. I prefer to concentrate on the characters. You already know that I adore Arte and Charlotte. It’s possible I developed a tiny crush on� Arte (chances are high I’m in the minority 😆). Don’t get me wrong Charlotte is more than crush worthy but this time I think it was just my heart that fell for the sweet and kind dreamer. Because I feel in this cruel world we need more people like her. More quiet and humble people. And in the end I think that’s why she is the perfect match for Charlotte.
Aside from these two I also wanna point out one side character. Ok two but first I wanna mention the human one. 😆 Freddie (Charlotte’s assistant) felt like a breath of fresh air and I loved how we got to know more about him. Sometimes it felt like we got a bit of a side story there and I started to root for him. 🥰 and last but not least Rodin the adorable black Labrador. You just can’t not love him (even if it seemed at first some can 😆).
And it’s Rodin who brings me to the cover. It’s the tiny details on them that make me love Emily’s covers so much. This time Rodin, last time Gertie and Virginia for the Nunswick books. All of this and more leave me back in awe of Emily‘s talent. I can’t wait for more by her and hope that many others will love this story as much as I did. And if you have loved Broken Beyond Repair you will be happy about the the tiny surprise in this book. 🥰
If you know Emily’s stories you know she has a thing for age gap and ice queens. So it was somehow a given we get this here again. Add Emily’s wonderful and unique humour, her love for history and details, and you’re in for another great ride. Even though maybe Charlotte isn’t the typical ice queen. 🤔 Or is she? I guess everyone needs to read and decide for themselves on that front. One thing that is for sure her first meeting with Arte is quite something and definitely stuck with me. I felt that in this scene almost everything I love about Emily‘s books is packed in there. An Ice queen, a sweet and adorable other character, history, her humour and well there is food. I confess the last one is new, but I love food so there is that and it comes on my list. 😆
But it’s not only this first meeting that drew me in right away and left me wanting for more. That actually happened right from the start. It’s when Arte wiggled her way into my heart and when I just wanted to take her in my arms. Totally knowing I usually don’t do hugs. But Arte the sweet dreamer just got me there. ☺️ The reminders we get about her gran totally got to me. Including the reminder how suddenly things can change in life. That is so true but we often forget about it. But it’s not only the sweetness in Arte that got to me. It’s also her dreams, her kindness and her fighting spirit. Even though the last one has to fully develop at first.
Charlotte on the other hand couldn’t be more different. While Arte lived her life mostly the way she wanted (minus some things early in life she had no influence on), Charlotte‘s life was drawn for her. It was always sure one day she takes over the hotel empire from her deceased and beloved father. But with a difficult mother (and let me tell you she really is and I was annoyed more than once�) that could be more difficult than expected. Her mother being in charge of the hotels doesn’t seem to step back any time soon and nothing Charlotte does seems to be good enough. The place she can shine is during the reality tv show Hotel SOS.
Sometimes in life it just needs one person or one moment to make us realise how stuck we are somewhere. For me it felt like Arte means that for Charlotte. Arte triggers something in her and makes her question things. But of course it’s a long way to detach yourself from a life that was yours for a long time. There is one scene that is somehow a breaking point for her but also the whole story. It made me cheer and pump my fist into the air. And then shouting finally. 😆
So you see I became quite invested in the characters. 😆 What happens in the story is something I feel like everyone needs to discover for themselves. Especially because I try to avoid any spoilers. I prefer to concentrate on the characters. You already know that I adore Arte and Charlotte. It’s possible I developed a tiny crush on� Arte (chances are high I’m in the minority 😆). Don’t get me wrong Charlotte is more than crush worthy but this time I think it was just my heart that fell for the sweet and kind dreamer. Because I feel in this cruel world we need more people like her. More quiet and humble people. And in the end I think that’s why she is the perfect match for Charlotte.
Aside from these two I also wanna point out one side character. Ok two but first I wanna mention the human one. 😆 Freddie (Charlotte’s assistant) felt like a breath of fresh air and I loved how we got to know more about him. Sometimes it felt like we got a bit of a side story there and I started to root for him. 🥰 and last but not least Rodin the adorable black Labrador. You just can’t not love him (even if it seemed at first some can 😆).
And it’s Rodin who brings me to the cover. It’s the tiny details on them that make me love Emily’s covers so much. This time Rodin, last time Gertie and Virginia for the Nunswick books. All of this and more leave me back in awe of Emily‘s talent. I can’t wait for more by her and hope that many others will love this story as much as I did. And if you have loved Broken Beyond Repair you will be happy about the the tiny surprise in this book. 🥰
March 2, 2024
While I enjoyed the ebook, the audiobook experience was elevated by the WONDERFUL performance by narrator Angela Dawe. She’s just so very good. Loved it! My recommendation is that if you haven’t experienced this book, go the audio route. 5+stars for this version!
Original review of ebook:
4.5 stars
Complex ice queens and the uniquely special women who soften them are my catnip. And if it's also a celeb romance? Take my money - pronto.
Set in the South Downs universe, Sculptor Arte Tremaine is determined to keep the beloved, rundown country hotel that her grandmother willed to her when she passed away. While Arte knew the place would need some fixing up when she took it over after returning home from teaching in Rome, she didn't expect to find it in such disrepair. As Arte is reeling from that revelation, she's further blindsided by a reality television hotel renovation crew appearing on her doorstep prepared to start construction work on the hotel to be featured on an upcoming episode. She was also not prepared for the face of that group to be led by a gorgeous, caustic television presenter/hotelier named Charlotte Beaufort, whose disdain of dilapidated country properties is apparent. What could possibly go wrong?
This slow building story takes its time with the character development, allowing readers to buy into a romance between a pair of women who on the surface seem to be polar opposites. Charlotte at age 51 is working toward taking over as CEO of her family's hotel empire, while 38 year-old Arte dreams of not only returning the hotel to its former glory, but also creating a dream space to continue and build on the work she did in Rome. Charlotte is tailored clothing and haughtiness, Arte is dungarees and warmth. And though they butt heads after a disastrous introduction, Charlotte is impressed that Arte is no doormat willing to speak up and stand firm on what she wants. Arte doesn't want to find the infuriating Charlotte so ridiculously attractive, but can't seem to help herself. Especially when she starts to learn who the woman is behind the facade. Once I reached the halfway point in the book, I was ravenous for the two to get together.
The secondary characters add further layers to the story - especially Charlotte's mother Claudette who doesn't appear often but whose presence is strongly felt, Rodin, Arte's grandmother's loyal black Lab, who must adjust to a missing presence and new reality at home and Charlotte's personal assistant Freddie, a quietly supportive person in both women's lives.
Fans of ice queen, wealth and age gap, and/or celeb romance tropes will really enjoy this stand-alone story, and have an even greater appreciation of it if they've read Broken Beyond Repair. And if you haven't read Broken Beyond Repair - do that immediately. It's fantastic!
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Original review of ebook:
4.5 stars
Complex ice queens and the uniquely special women who soften them are my catnip. And if it's also a celeb romance? Take my money - pronto.
Set in the South Downs universe, Sculptor Arte Tremaine is determined to keep the beloved, rundown country hotel that her grandmother willed to her when she passed away. While Arte knew the place would need some fixing up when she took it over after returning home from teaching in Rome, she didn't expect to find it in such disrepair. As Arte is reeling from that revelation, she's further blindsided by a reality television hotel renovation crew appearing on her doorstep prepared to start construction work on the hotel to be featured on an upcoming episode. She was also not prepared for the face of that group to be led by a gorgeous, caustic television presenter/hotelier named Charlotte Beaufort, whose disdain of dilapidated country properties is apparent. What could possibly go wrong?
This slow building story takes its time with the character development, allowing readers to buy into a romance between a pair of women who on the surface seem to be polar opposites. Charlotte at age 51 is working toward taking over as CEO of her family's hotel empire, while 38 year-old Arte dreams of not only returning the hotel to its former glory, but also creating a dream space to continue and build on the work she did in Rome. Charlotte is tailored clothing and haughtiness, Arte is dungarees and warmth. And though they butt heads after a disastrous introduction, Charlotte is impressed that Arte is no doormat willing to speak up and stand firm on what she wants. Arte doesn't want to find the infuriating Charlotte so ridiculously attractive, but can't seem to help herself. Especially when she starts to learn who the woman is behind the facade. Once I reached the halfway point in the book, I was ravenous for the two to get together.
The secondary characters add further layers to the story - especially Charlotte's mother Claudette who doesn't appear often but whose presence is strongly felt, Rodin, Arte's grandmother's loyal black Lab, who must adjust to a missing presence and new reality at home and Charlotte's personal assistant Freddie, a quietly supportive person in both women's lives.
Fans of ice queen, wealth and age gap, and/or celeb romance tropes will really enjoy this stand-alone story, and have an even greater appreciation of it if they've read Broken Beyond Repair. And if you haven't read Broken Beyond Repair - do that immediately. It's fantastic!
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
August 22, 2023
4.75 stars. I wrote a review then GR decided to crash when I saved it. Grrrrrrrr🤬🤬🤬
Tl:dr I liked it. Would recommend. KU.
Tl:dr I liked it. Would recommend. KU.
March 22, 2024
An art teacher and an artist in her own right, Arte Tremaine comes back to England, after years in Italy, to take over the hotel she and her sister inherited from their beloved grandmother. The place is in worse condition than Arte expected but that’s not the biggest surprise. When a TV crew shows up, she finds out her grandmother requested help from Hotel SOS and its bitchy host, Charlotte Beaufort, whose family is a huge name in the business.
Arte is passionate and brave, but she’s also borderline rude at times. I get that her bluntness with Charlotte comes from a place of love and belief that she’s not who the world sees, which is probably why she manages to slip under the hard surface. It feels different from Charlotte’s mother’s barbs, that’s for sure, but it made me feel for Charlotte anyway. Yet at the same time, meeting Arte was the motivation Charlotte needed to question her life. I enjoyed that part, the woman who’s always done what was expected of her finding the strength to start doing things differently one day. I also liked that the most vulnerable one wasn’t the obvious one.
I didn’t entirely buy the chemistry between the MCs, but I didn’t mind that too much. I’m okay with instalust and instalove and while I’d rather feel it, I can make myself believe the characters if they tell me it’s there.
I know Angela Dawe is a favourite with many sapphic audiobook listeners and I loved her narration of , but here, I wasn’t convinced by her voice for Charlotte, which sounded much older than her fifty-one years. And I loved Arte’s voice until I reread my notes and realised she was supposed to be thirty-eight and, again, the voice sounded younger than that. I had the same issue with , so I guess Dawe—like Banting—is hit or miss for me. That said, I liked everything else about her narration. She’s objectively very good, with a wide range of voices for secondary characters.
Broken Beyond Repair was and I was really looking forward to the next book in Emily Banting’s South Downs series. I wish I could say I loved it just as much. I enjoyed it overall, but I didn’t love it.
Read all my reviews on my blog (and please buy from the affiliation links!):
August 22, 2023
This book is really sweat and my favorite thing was : Charlotte Beaufort 😍
She spent the last years trying to earn her mother's respect, losing herself in the process and I really felt for her. Charlotte was not a classic ice queen to me : she was instantly attracted to Arte like a moth to the flame, and was the one who pursued her. In my head, an ice queen resist to being thawed. That being said, I liked seeing her letting her walls down and trying to connect with the good in her; the side she was hiding, thinking it would be seen as strength by her mother. I wasn't expecting Charlotte to be the vulnerable character in this couple. I was quickly hooked wanting to see the relationship progress and it did rather quickly when I expected a slowest burn. I particularly liked that hot first kiss. I could recommend this book only for Charlotte's character growth. The side characters bring a good balance of endearing with Freddie and despiseful with Mike and Claudette.
I have mixed feelings about Arte. She doesn't take shit from Charlotte and I love her being fierce and pursue her dreams. She opened Charlotte's eyes. But, at some point she put some expectations on Charlotte shoulders, when Charlotte was already under pressure and I admit I was mad at her. She also threw some lines at Charlotte that were hurtful to me, making me almost feel that the efforts to make the relationship work were almost one sided and coming from Charlotte only.Maybe it's the fact that I was overprotective over Charlotte that made me react that way. My issue was also that I knew Arte's hard background, I knew her dreams, her expectations coming from a partner, but I couldn't figure out her whole personality. So, their couple didn't click with me.
That's why I personally didn't connect to this book like I wished and like other readers did; I am sad about it because I absolutely loved 𝗕𝗿𝗼𝗸𝗲𝗻 𝗯𝗲𝘆𝗼𝗻𝗱 𝗿𝗲𝗽𝗮𝗶𝗿 . If you've read it you will be glad to see Beatrice and Sydney coming to say hi.
Still, I recommend it if you are looking for a sweet low angst novel
She spent the last years trying to earn her mother's respect, losing herself in the process and I really felt for her. Charlotte was not a classic ice queen to me : she was instantly attracted to Arte like a moth to the flame, and was the one who pursued her. In my head, an ice queen resist to being thawed. That being said, I liked seeing her letting her walls down and trying to connect with the good in her; the side she was hiding, thinking it would be seen as strength by her mother. I wasn't expecting Charlotte to be the vulnerable character in this couple. I was quickly hooked wanting to see the relationship progress and it did rather quickly when I expected a slowest burn. I particularly liked that hot first kiss. I could recommend this book only for Charlotte's character growth. The side characters bring a good balance of endearing with Freddie and despiseful with Mike and Claudette.
I have mixed feelings about Arte. She doesn't take shit from Charlotte and I love her being fierce and pursue her dreams. She opened Charlotte's eyes. But, at some point she put some expectations on Charlotte shoulders, when Charlotte was already under pressure and I admit I was mad at her. She also threw some lines at Charlotte that were hurtful to me, making me almost feel that the efforts to make the relationship work were almost one sided and coming from Charlotte only.Maybe it's the fact that I was overprotective over Charlotte that made me react that way. My issue was also that I knew Arte's hard background, I knew her dreams, her expectations coming from a partner, but I couldn't figure out her whole personality. So, their couple didn't click with me.
That's why I personally didn't connect to this book like I wished and like other readers did; I am sad about it because I absolutely loved 𝗕𝗿𝗼𝗸𝗲𝗻 𝗯𝗲𝘆𝗼𝗻𝗱 𝗿𝗲𝗽𝗮𝗶𝗿 . If you've read it you will be glad to see Beatrice and Sydney coming to say hi.
Still, I recommend it if you are looking for a sweet low angst novel
September 8, 2023
3.5 ⭐️
This is a mixed-read for me.
I have always been a fan of age-gap romance and like it even better if there is an ice queen. So obviously Reality in Check is so up my alley…though Charlotte is not the iciest queen I’ve read. Nonetheless, I liked the plot and adored 51 y/o Charlotte whose wall came down pretty quick when it comes to Arte. Charlotte who at 51, is still seeking validation from mommy dearest who always seems to put Charlotte down whenever they meet even though deep down she is proud of Charlotte�.reverse psychology gone wrong? 🤔
The one thing that just didn’t sit well with me is Arte Tremaine. Don’t get me wrong. Arte is a strong independent woman, no pushover but I thought that she was a little too or unnecessarily pushy with Charlotte at times. And given Charlotte’s vulnerability, I’m a bit protective of her.
Anyhow, that is just my 2 cents worth.
This is a mixed-read for me.
I have always been a fan of age-gap romance and like it even better if there is an ice queen. So obviously Reality in Check is so up my alley…though Charlotte is not the iciest queen I’ve read. Nonetheless, I liked the plot and adored 51 y/o Charlotte whose wall came down pretty quick when it comes to Arte. Charlotte who at 51, is still seeking validation from mommy dearest who always seems to put Charlotte down whenever they meet even though deep down she is proud of Charlotte�.reverse psychology gone wrong? 🤔
The one thing that just didn’t sit well with me is Arte Tremaine. Don’t get me wrong. Arte is a strong independent woman, no pushover but I thought that she was a little too or unnecessarily pushy with Charlotte at times. And given Charlotte’s vulnerability, I’m a bit protective of her.
Anyhow, that is just my 2 cents worth.
August 9, 2023
Well, Emily Banting has done it again. This book was a perfect balance of angst, thawing of the ice queen, slow burn and so much more. From the first chapter I was completely hooked, and I loved both characters but Charlotte stood out and won my heart. If only I could watch Hotel SOS as I’m a sucker for HGTV shows. Do not hesitate to pick this one up when it comes out August 12, it’s fantastic!
Thank you so much to the author for reaching out and sending me an ARC!
Thank you so much to the author for reaching out and sending me an ARC!
August 16, 2023
Banting's characters and descriptions leapt off the pages and I was immediately drawn into the book with leads Arte and Charlotte.
Arte's beloved Gran has left Hotel Aloysius to Arte and her sister Sophie. The sisters have no idea that the building/business is in dire need of help but before her passing, Gran had contacted the t.v. show Hotel SOS for guidance. Charlotte is the cold, ruthless host for the reality show as well as CEO in waiting for her family hotel empire. Arte is the novice hotelier thrown into a situation and monetary problems she's never dealt with before. From their first utterly disastrous meeting Arte is intrigued by the chilly but sexy Charlotte and the businesswoman's interest is piqued by the dungaree clad bohemian. No need to reveal more - I just knew I was in for a treat of a story.
Arte's artistic personality - open, warm, wanting to hold on to her Gran's legacy (while hoping to follow her childhood dream of an artist studio/retreat) quickly resonated with me. Charlotte slowly wormed her way into my heart. Her unfeeling facade unknowingly molded through years of compliance with her mother's wishes and demands. The storyline is laced with snark, angst, flirtatious bantering and eventual heat plus nicely fleshed out side characters. I thought Claudette was a horrid mother and loved Rodin who stole the limelight. The cameo by Gertie, Bea and Syd was perfect. This is a realization of loneliness and crumbling of walls through warmth and caring leading with some ups and downs to a beautiful romance and deserved happiness.
A 5 star read that I very happily recommend.
Arte's beloved Gran has left Hotel Aloysius to Arte and her sister Sophie. The sisters have no idea that the building/business is in dire need of help but before her passing, Gran had contacted the t.v. show Hotel SOS for guidance. Charlotte is the cold, ruthless host for the reality show as well as CEO in waiting for her family hotel empire. Arte is the novice hotelier thrown into a situation and monetary problems she's never dealt with before. From their first utterly disastrous meeting Arte is intrigued by the chilly but sexy Charlotte and the businesswoman's interest is piqued by the dungaree clad bohemian. No need to reveal more - I just knew I was in for a treat of a story.
Arte's artistic personality - open, warm, wanting to hold on to her Gran's legacy (while hoping to follow her childhood dream of an artist studio/retreat) quickly resonated with me. Charlotte slowly wormed her way into my heart. Her unfeeling facade unknowingly molded through years of compliance with her mother's wishes and demands. The storyline is laced with snark, angst, flirtatious bantering and eventual heat plus nicely fleshed out side characters. I thought Claudette was a horrid mother and loved Rodin who stole the limelight. The cameo by Gertie, Bea and Syd was perfect. This is a realization of loneliness and crumbling of walls through warmth and caring leading with some ups and downs to a beautiful romance and deserved happiness.
A 5 star read that I very happily recommend.
February 8, 2025
3.5.
I enjoyed my second book from Emily Banting! The plot was engaging, and the pacing kept me hooked from start to finish. Charlotte was a fantastic main character—cool and composed on the surface but with plenty of depth underneath. Arte was likable for the most part, though there were moments when she felt unnecessarily harsh, and I couldn’t help but feel that Charlotte didn’t deserve that.
If I had one wish, it would be for a slower burn between them—their relationship escalated so quickly that it felt a little unrealistic.
But overall, it was an enjoyable read.
I enjoyed my second book from Emily Banting! The plot was engaging, and the pacing kept me hooked from start to finish. Charlotte was a fantastic main character—cool and composed on the surface but with plenty of depth underneath. Arte was likable for the most part, though there were moments when she felt unnecessarily harsh, and I couldn’t help but feel that Charlotte didn’t deserve that.
If I had one wish, it would be for a slower burn between them—their relationship escalated so quickly that it felt a little unrealistic.
But overall, it was an enjoyable read.
Read
September 9, 2023I don’t know if I wasn’t in the right mindset to read this book but it just wouldn’t work for me. It dragged on forever and I didn’t feel much chemistry between the two MCs.
I enjoyed the first book in the series far more.
I enjoyed the first book in the series far more.
March 30, 2025
Nice and pleasant enemies to lovers. Gentle and low angst.
October 6, 2023
I’m just gonna leave this here:
“Light gasps escaped from her lips as Charlotte’s nipped and kissed her neck, sending a pleasant tingle coursing through her body. She’d never felt such an overwhelming sense of being desired, nor had she experienced such intense desire for another person before.�
August 28, 2023
Another wonderful book by Emily Banting. A low angst, age gap romance which made me chuckle out loud at times.
Charlotte and Arte are great MC’s with a lively supporting cast including a fab Easter egg.
Without giving spoilers the story also showed the importance of having dreams and what happens if you do or don’t follow them. All in all another book that I struggled to put down. The fluidity in the writing, the descriptive prose all pulled together to make a great book.
I only read it over two days because I actually had to go to work in between my reading!!
While this was an ARC I can happily say this is my honest review.
Charlotte and Arte are great MC’s with a lively supporting cast including a fab Easter egg.
Without giving spoilers the story also showed the importance of having dreams and what happens if you do or don’t follow them. All in all another book that I struggled to put down. The fluidity in the writing, the descriptive prose all pulled together to make a great book.
I only read it over two days because I actually had to go to work in between my reading!!
While this was an ARC I can happily say this is my honest review.
July 8, 2024
page turner - loved the characters, could live in the world.
March 11, 2024
2.5 �
i was very excited to read this book since i loved broken beyond repair, so i was a bit disappointed that i didn’t enjoy this at all. i didn’t really care for the main characters but i especially disliked arte and at some point every time she opened her mouth to say something my immediate response was to roll my eyes. i didn’t understand the connection between charlotte and arte, you blink and they already fell for each other. the beginning was enjoyable but i suspect that after they spent 3 days together (and knowing each other for like a week or two?) and arte said she was falling in love is when it went downhill for me. this felt very much like an instalove and that’s something that bores me to no end.
still, i like the author’s writing and charlotte’s character development was probably the highlight of the book. a lot of people loved this but sadly it just didn’t work for me.
i was very excited to read this book since i loved broken beyond repair, so i was a bit disappointed that i didn’t enjoy this at all. i didn’t really care for the main characters but i especially disliked arte and at some point every time she opened her mouth to say something my immediate response was to roll my eyes. i didn’t understand the connection between charlotte and arte, you blink and they already fell for each other. the beginning was enjoyable but i suspect that after they spent 3 days together (and knowing each other for like a week or two?) and arte said she was falling in love is when it went downhill for me. this felt very much like an instalove and that’s something that bores me to no end.
still, i like the author’s writing and charlotte’s character development was probably the highlight of the book. a lot of people loved this but sadly it just didn’t work for me.
September 18, 2023
3.8 ⭐️ Emily Banting is my cosy, low angst, slow-burn, sapphic romance author of choice.
This is the kind of book you go into when your brain needs a breather and when it’s raining outside and you just want to disappear. Whilst it has hate to love themes it’s the cute kind that leaves you smiling away.
It’s an absolute nightmare finding sapphic romance books set in England (especially with countryside feels) so when I say I run to these I mean it.
If you’re looking for something fast paced and filled with spice this isn’t for you. If you’re looking for a slow burn romance guaranteed to make you grin with a tiny dash of spice this is for you.
Emily writes later in life sapphics, in cosy settings with low angst stories that feel like a warm hug.
Rep// 38 Year Old Lesbian MC, 51 Year Old Bisexual MC, MLM SC.
Thank you to Emily for sending me a copy for review.
Tws listed below, please skip if you don’t want vague spoilers.
Tw//CW// age gap (38&51), brief mentioned of domestic violence involving SC, homelessness (past ref), death of a loved one, carbon monoxide poisoning (past), stroke, death of parents (past), brief on page sex scene.
This is the kind of book you go into when your brain needs a breather and when it’s raining outside and you just want to disappear. Whilst it has hate to love themes it’s the cute kind that leaves you smiling away.
It’s an absolute nightmare finding sapphic romance books set in England (especially with countryside feels) so when I say I run to these I mean it.
If you’re looking for something fast paced and filled with spice this isn’t for you. If you’re looking for a slow burn romance guaranteed to make you grin with a tiny dash of spice this is for you.
Emily writes later in life sapphics, in cosy settings with low angst stories that feel like a warm hug.
Rep// 38 Year Old Lesbian MC, 51 Year Old Bisexual MC, MLM SC.
Thank you to Emily for sending me a copy for review.
Tws listed below, please skip if you don’t want vague spoilers.
Tw//CW// age gap (38&51), brief mentioned of domestic violence involving SC, homelessness (past ref), death of a loved one, carbon monoxide poisoning (past), stroke, death of parents (past), brief on page sex scene.
August 22, 2023
Yes, this can be called an Ice Queen story, or an enemies to lovers story, or an age gap/ slow burn story. It's actually all of these! But it's a very good story!!
Arte's grandmother has left her and her sister Sophie a charming but very run down hotel. Unbeknownst to them, before her death, she'd signed a contract with reality show Hotel SOS and Charolette (heiress to a hotel empire) to help her to get the hotel in shape.
Arte and Charolette clash immediately. Will Arte except the help, and will hard nosed/cold Charolette melt down a bit?
I love Broken Beyond Repair and this lives up to it! I definitely give it 5 stars!
Arte's grandmother has left her and her sister Sophie a charming but very run down hotel. Unbeknownst to them, before her death, she'd signed a contract with reality show Hotel SOS and Charolette (heiress to a hotel empire) to help her to get the hotel in shape.
Arte and Charolette clash immediately. Will Arte except the help, and will hard nosed/cold Charolette melt down a bit?
I love Broken Beyond Repair and this lives up to it! I definitely give it 5 stars!
August 8, 2023
Firstly thank you so much Emily for the ARC! It is an honour to have been asked to review this book for you.
What can I say about this book, well for starters it's bloody brilliant! I loved everything about it! It's funny it's engaging and I didn't want it to end.
The connection between Arte and Charlotte was clear from the start, even though they don't start on the right foot, it's clear there is an attraction. I love all the characters within the book and Rodin is just the sweetest and cutest dog ever! The surprise guest appearance was also nice 🥲
I can't tell you how much I really enjoyed this book and highly recommend it! Make sure you pre-order it today so it's ready for you on release day!
Don't miss out, this book will be released on August 12th 🗓
Star rating. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice rating. 🔥🔥🔥
What can I say about this book, well for starters it's bloody brilliant! I loved everything about it! It's funny it's engaging and I didn't want it to end.
The connection between Arte and Charlotte was clear from the start, even though they don't start on the right foot, it's clear there is an attraction. I love all the characters within the book and Rodin is just the sweetest and cutest dog ever! The surprise guest appearance was also nice 🥲
I can't tell you how much I really enjoyed this book and highly recommend it! Make sure you pre-order it today so it's ready for you on release day!
Don't miss out, this book will be released on August 12th 🗓
Star rating. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice rating. 🔥🔥🔥
August 24, 2023
I loved Broken Beyond Repair, and I enjoyed a lot reading Reality in Check.
It reminds you that sometimes your life doesn't go the way you wished for, but there is still time to follow your dreams and not someone else's hopes.
I liked the initial icy walls of Charlotte and the fierce standing up for herself of Arte.
I wish I could have read more about Arte, more about her passion for Art, more about her actually creating art, but maybe the book would have been a bit too long.
Reality in Check is a sweet and cute reading, and Rodin the dog is the cherry on top of the cake.
Carpe diem. When you know, you know. Don't wait to be happy.
Ps. Loved the Easter egg in it.
It reminds you that sometimes your life doesn't go the way you wished for, but there is still time to follow your dreams and not someone else's hopes.
I liked the initial icy walls of Charlotte and the fierce standing up for herself of Arte.
I wish I could have read more about Arte, more about her passion for Art, more about her actually creating art, but maybe the book would have been a bit too long.
Reality in Check is a sweet and cute reading, and Rodin the dog is the cherry on top of the cake.
Carpe diem. When you know, you know. Don't wait to be happy.
Ps. Loved the Easter egg in it.
December 24, 2023
.
This was actually such a disappointing read. I enjoyed the first book in this series, it wasn't perfect but it was fun. This book seems to have taken every element from the first book that didn't work and make it even worse.
First of all, Charlotte was 51yo but her behaviour and character progression make her seem 25 at best. The romance was an extreme case of insta love, it took the main characters about 3 days of interacting to be completely head over heels with each other. The whole plot wasn't very engaging either and it felt like a chore every time I went back to it. I really wanted a cute fluffy romance like the first book and this just... Didn't land at all.
This was actually such a disappointing read. I enjoyed the first book in this series, it wasn't perfect but it was fun. This book seems to have taken every element from the first book that didn't work and make it even worse.
First of all, Charlotte was 51yo but her behaviour and character progression make her seem 25 at best. The romance was an extreme case of insta love, it took the main characters about 3 days of interacting to be completely head over heels with each other. The whole plot wasn't very engaging either and it felt like a chore every time I went back to it. I really wanted a cute fluffy romance like the first book and this just... Didn't land at all.
September 3, 2023
GOODREADS MA JAKIŚ ERROR I NIE MOGĘ DODAĆ TUTAJ PIERWSZEJ CZĘŚCI TEJ SERII AKA „BROKEN BEYOND REPAIR� - DLATEGO KRZYCZĘ, BO BARDZO JĄ KOCHAAAAAAM!!
„Reality In Check� to moje drugie spotkanie z Emily Banting i oh, jakże udane! Choć pierwsza część antologii jest moim definitywnym faworytem, to druga również skradła moje serducho🥹
Kolejna piękna historia miłosna z reprezentacją, która ociepliła mnie od środka. Znów na tapecie pojawia się ICE QUEEN - tym razem jest to Charlotte, szefowa hotelów i prowadząca program, w którym rożnego rodzaju hotele/motele są remontowane - oraz jej SUNSHINE z pazurkiem - Arte, która musi zaopiekować się starodawnym hotelem prowadzącym przez jej zmarłą niedawno babcię. Jedna chce zachować pamiątki bez większych zmian, zaś druga na potrzeby programu i aktualnych wymagań pragnie stworzyć tam nowoczesną usługę. Co to będzie?
Ah, ten duet…SO HOT
Nie obyłoby się bez drama time (w pierwszej części chodziło o reputację i morale, a tutaj rozgrywały się spory pieniężne, im not kidding!). Było dużo miłostek, wspaniałe odkrywanie siebie i zdejmowanie maski po 50 latach żywotu, DUŻO PIESKOWEGO CONTENTU (Rodin, kocham cię), godzenia się z własną przeszłością, stawiania się wymagającym rodzicom i masa innych wspaniałości.
I’m LOVING it!🫶🏼
„Reality In Check� to moje drugie spotkanie z Emily Banting i oh, jakże udane! Choć pierwsza część antologii jest moim definitywnym faworytem, to druga również skradła moje serducho🥹
Kolejna piękna historia miłosna z reprezentacją, która ociepliła mnie od środka. Znów na tapecie pojawia się ICE QUEEN - tym razem jest to Charlotte, szefowa hotelów i prowadząca program, w którym rożnego rodzaju hotele/motele są remontowane - oraz jej SUNSHINE z pazurkiem - Arte, która musi zaopiekować się starodawnym hotelem prowadzącym przez jej zmarłą niedawno babcię. Jedna chce zachować pamiątki bez większych zmian, zaś druga na potrzeby programu i aktualnych wymagań pragnie stworzyć tam nowoczesną usługę. Co to będzie?
Ah, ten duet…SO HOT
Nie obyłoby się bez drama time (w pierwszej części chodziło o reputację i morale, a tutaj rozgrywały się spory pieniężne, im not kidding!). Było dużo miłostek, wspaniałe odkrywanie siebie i zdejmowanie maski po 50 latach żywotu, DUŻO PIESKOWEGO CONTENTU (Rodin, kocham cię), godzenia się z własną przeszłością, stawiania się wymagającym rodzicom i masa innych wspaniałości.
I’m LOVING it!🫶🏼
August 16, 2023
Sweet and sour
Arte has been through so much lost and still is sweet and friendly. Charlotte can be acidic in her tone and treatment of others. Arte manages to see Charlotte’s softer side and encourages her to trust her true self. It’s a wonderful slow burn age gap romance. Great characters throughout and well worth the read. I loved it 🥰
Arte has been through so much lost and still is sweet and friendly. Charlotte can be acidic in her tone and treatment of others. Arte manages to see Charlotte’s softer side and encourages her to trust her true self. It’s a wonderful slow burn age gap romance. Great characters throughout and well worth the read. I loved it 🥰
May 6, 2024
Didn’t really work for me: too many tropes as they all chased each other - and don’t forget the dog!
August 12, 2023
Reality In Check by Emily Banting is an age gap, ice queen romance that will leave you full of love.
After the tragic news of her beloved grandmothers death Arte has left her life in Italy behind to return home. Her gran has left Arte her life’s legacy, a run down hotel that will need more than love and a bit if elbow grease to get it up and running again.
Charlotte is the presenter of the hit show Hotel SOS. She’s also a billionaire and set to take over her families hotel business as CEO, if she can ever gain her mother’s approval.
When Hotel SOS turn up on Arte’s doorstep she is less than pleased. Realising that her gran had reached out for help Arte decides to go along with the facade. Even if the icy, rude but stunning presenter makes Arte’s blood boil.
While working on the show both Arte and Charlotte get a reality check far beyond what they expected, but can they be brave and face it together?
Arrgggghhhhh I love this book. Emily Banting has done it again. She has created beautiful characters I adore, and a storyline that kept me glued to the page.
Arte is one of those characters that is sweet, kind, generous and understanding. However she is no door mat, Arte is not afraid to call out bullshit, ask when she needs more and express her feelings when she feels she deserves more especially when it comes to Charlotte.
I also admire her courage to put herself out there, to leave everything behind and follow a childhood dream. Sure she has moments of doubt but beneath it all her determination shines through.
Charlotte is an ice queen, she hides behind barbed wire covered walls, and cutting remarks that are at times mean. She keeps everyone at arm’s length and is on a constant mission to prove she is worthy of the CEO position within her families hotel business.
This book has it all. Funny witty one liners that had me chuckling, believable, beautifully written dialogue, a cast of characters that make your heart happy, and brilliant, sweet storyline that leaves you on cloud nine.
Emily Banting has become one of my favourite authors. The way she gets feelings onto the page takes my breath away. She manages to build tension between Charlotte and Arte with a unique subtlety that makes my chest ache and my heart beat faster. Reading one of her books always slowly and sneakily breaks my heart before gluing it tightly together and leaving it stronger and fuller. There were times when reading this book that the tears were in my eyes before I even realised it, but then they’re gone to be replaced with a huge smile. It’s genius!
I love that this book has two ‘older women� Arte is in her late thirties and Charlotte in her early fifties. More than that though I absolutely and utterly adore that neither of these women have their shit fully together, because guess what? We don’t. There is this expectation as you get older to know what you want, and to act a certain way and it’s all bull. The majority of us are either acting that way because of expectations or we’re openly putting one foot in front of the other and hoping for the best. Emily Banting captures this perfectly. She writes real and relatable characters, who are messy and wonderful.
Both Arte and Charlotte are dealing with huge changes in their lives. Arte due to the fact that her gran has passed away and she has chosen to return home to start a new life. Charlotte because she has decided to start taking control of her own life, by leaving her sham marriage of convenience and live life for herself. Although they start these journeys separately, it’s together that they show each other the reality of what life can look like.
I could go on and on about this book, I’ve read it twice and will read it many more times. It’s a masterpiece of dreams Vs reality and shows us that just because your dreams don’t always turn out as planned it doesn’t make them any less perfect.
I swooned, I laughed and I’m now left with a huge book hangover that isn’t going away anytime soon.
5 stars plus I’m throwing all the stars at this one. Bloody brilliant.
(Arc received from the author)
After the tragic news of her beloved grandmothers death Arte has left her life in Italy behind to return home. Her gran has left Arte her life’s legacy, a run down hotel that will need more than love and a bit if elbow grease to get it up and running again.
Charlotte is the presenter of the hit show Hotel SOS. She’s also a billionaire and set to take over her families hotel business as CEO, if she can ever gain her mother’s approval.
When Hotel SOS turn up on Arte’s doorstep she is less than pleased. Realising that her gran had reached out for help Arte decides to go along with the facade. Even if the icy, rude but stunning presenter makes Arte’s blood boil.
While working on the show both Arte and Charlotte get a reality check far beyond what they expected, but can they be brave and face it together?
Arrgggghhhhh I love this book. Emily Banting has done it again. She has created beautiful characters I adore, and a storyline that kept me glued to the page.
Arte is one of those characters that is sweet, kind, generous and understanding. However she is no door mat, Arte is not afraid to call out bullshit, ask when she needs more and express her feelings when she feels she deserves more especially when it comes to Charlotte.
I also admire her courage to put herself out there, to leave everything behind and follow a childhood dream. Sure she has moments of doubt but beneath it all her determination shines through.
Charlotte is an ice queen, she hides behind barbed wire covered walls, and cutting remarks that are at times mean. She keeps everyone at arm’s length and is on a constant mission to prove she is worthy of the CEO position within her families hotel business.
This book has it all. Funny witty one liners that had me chuckling, believable, beautifully written dialogue, a cast of characters that make your heart happy, and brilliant, sweet storyline that leaves you on cloud nine.
Emily Banting has become one of my favourite authors. The way she gets feelings onto the page takes my breath away. She manages to build tension between Charlotte and Arte with a unique subtlety that makes my chest ache and my heart beat faster. Reading one of her books always slowly and sneakily breaks my heart before gluing it tightly together and leaving it stronger and fuller. There were times when reading this book that the tears were in my eyes before I even realised it, but then they’re gone to be replaced with a huge smile. It’s genius!
I love that this book has two ‘older women� Arte is in her late thirties and Charlotte in her early fifties. More than that though I absolutely and utterly adore that neither of these women have their shit fully together, because guess what? We don’t. There is this expectation as you get older to know what you want, and to act a certain way and it’s all bull. The majority of us are either acting that way because of expectations or we’re openly putting one foot in front of the other and hoping for the best. Emily Banting captures this perfectly. She writes real and relatable characters, who are messy and wonderful.
Both Arte and Charlotte are dealing with huge changes in their lives. Arte due to the fact that her gran has passed away and she has chosen to return home to start a new life. Charlotte because she has decided to start taking control of her own life, by leaving her sham marriage of convenience and live life for herself. Although they start these journeys separately, it’s together that they show each other the reality of what life can look like.
I could go on and on about this book, I’ve read it twice and will read it many more times. It’s a masterpiece of dreams Vs reality and shows us that just because your dreams don’t always turn out as planned it doesn’t make them any less perfect.
I swooned, I laughed and I’m now left with a huge book hangover that isn’t going away anytime soon.
5 stars plus I’m throwing all the stars at this one. Bloody brilliant.
(Arc received from the author)
August 12, 2023
First off, thanks to Emily Banting for the ARC of this lovely book! I loved reading Broken Beyond Repair (Gertie is back!), so I knew I had to get my hands on this one ASAP! It was a quick hook into the book, the characters were well thought out and super easy to picture as I was reading, the dungarees and designer clothes, stark contrast but lead for great build up. I loved just about everything about this book, and I can’t wait to see what Emily does next!
September 27, 2023
Black Labrador, a clothing item I had to google, artsy, slow burn, heartbreaking, feisty, age gap.
This story was a little difficult for me to read due to the grief being in the plot and it being a sensitive time for me (please check TW’s) but I did also really enjoy it and I’m glad that I did read it. Arte and Charlotte really are polar opposites and I honestly didn’t find the age gap to be all that obvious within their chemistry. I thoroughly enjoyed their back and forth banter, and I absolutely loved how they encouraged each other. I enjoyed how the story ultimately empowers the drive to follow your dreams despite obstacles. I enjoyed Arte’s straight shooter personality and I really loved Charlotte. My favourite was of course everyone’s favourite doggo, Rodin. My only negative keeping it from a 5 star was that I felt their relationship towards the end skipped some steps, but I did really enjoy it nonetheless.
I received a free copy of this book from Emily and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This story was a little difficult for me to read due to the grief being in the plot and it being a sensitive time for me (please check TW’s) but I did also really enjoy it and I’m glad that I did read it. Arte and Charlotte really are polar opposites and I honestly didn’t find the age gap to be all that obvious within their chemistry. I thoroughly enjoyed their back and forth banter, and I absolutely loved how they encouraged each other. I enjoyed how the story ultimately empowers the drive to follow your dreams despite obstacles. I enjoyed Arte’s straight shooter personality and I really loved Charlotte. My favourite was of course everyone’s favourite doggo, Rodin. My only negative keeping it from a 5 star was that I felt their relationship towards the end skipped some steps, but I did really enjoy it nonetheless.
I received a free copy of this book from Emily and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 2, 2023
Reality in Check by Emily Banting.
Thank you, Sapphic publishing and Emily Banting, for the ARC to review.
If you've read Broken beyond Repair by Emily, this book is set in the same South Downs. Yet, it is very much a standalone. Having said that, I personally would recommend you read Broken beyond repair first, not only because it helps just set up a general premise, but because it also happens to be a great book! But, I digress.
This book is an age gap, but for those who are more mature in age in general. I admit I'm always wary of age gap books when one character is young, and while they might be within a legal age gap, I find myself uneasy. In fact, one line from this book stood out, and I nodded along when an age difference was mentioned.
So, if, like me, age gap books aren't usually something you would necessarily consider, I urge you not to let it discourage you here.
As I was reading this book, I found myself bookmarking as I went, and jotting notes down, not only for something to look at as I review, but simply because I wanted a reminder as to why it impacted so much - in this instance, positively.
Arte and Charlotte are the main characters, with a few others who are important or influential in one way or another.
One thing I appreciated was even though it was an enemy to lovers story - and oh boy, how I loved how all the initial enmity came about - we didn't have to wait ages for the animosity between Arte and Charlotte to dissipate. What Emily, as the writer has done so well, is the pacing of the book. Because even though the animosity between them is resolved, the way they build the friendship rather than both immediately start to fall into a dating pattern was something I truly admired, because it allowed us to organically grow into each personality, issues they face, and the people immediately around them, in one way or another influencing their choices.
Another feature I found was that I loved the people around Arte and Charlotte. For a start, we all need a Freddie in our life! But for good or bad, these supporting characters are all seamlessly brought in and enhance the book as a whole. I admit, there was one character whose personality didn't completely flip 180 degrees, but what change did happen still had me sitting there eyebrows raised, simply not expecting that change to arise.
Now, from a more personal perspective. Domestic violence has a slight mention. It isn't a large part of the book at all, barely spoken about, in fact. I won't go into details, for fear of spoilers, but let me just say, as a IPV (Intimate Partner Violence) survivor, to see how it was written - was heartfelt and hopefully thought provoking for some readers. If nothing else, others might recognise that DV can happen to anyone and the toll it can take.
Of course, as is fairly typical of books like this, we were faced with some angst, but it was not only generally short lived, but fully believable in that moment.
We also had moments that had me chuckling out loud. Always a good sign.
Overall, like its companion, Broken Beyond Repair, this is a book that fits beautifully into most sapphic bookshelves. Even if romance isn't really your thing, I feel the characters alone are interesting enough to make it worth your while reading this.
It was an easy, absorbing read that had me wishing for more from the South Downs.
Easily giving this 5/5 stars 🌟 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Thank you, Sapphic publishing and Emily Banting, for the ARC to review.
If you've read Broken beyond Repair by Emily, this book is set in the same South Downs. Yet, it is very much a standalone. Having said that, I personally would recommend you read Broken beyond repair first, not only because it helps just set up a general premise, but because it also happens to be a great book! But, I digress.
This book is an age gap, but for those who are more mature in age in general. I admit I'm always wary of age gap books when one character is young, and while they might be within a legal age gap, I find myself uneasy. In fact, one line from this book stood out, and I nodded along when an age difference was mentioned.
So, if, like me, age gap books aren't usually something you would necessarily consider, I urge you not to let it discourage you here.
As I was reading this book, I found myself bookmarking as I went, and jotting notes down, not only for something to look at as I review, but simply because I wanted a reminder as to why it impacted so much - in this instance, positively.
Arte and Charlotte are the main characters, with a few others who are important or influential in one way or another.
One thing I appreciated was even though it was an enemy to lovers story - and oh boy, how I loved how all the initial enmity came about - we didn't have to wait ages for the animosity between Arte and Charlotte to dissipate. What Emily, as the writer has done so well, is the pacing of the book. Because even though the animosity between them is resolved, the way they build the friendship rather than both immediately start to fall into a dating pattern was something I truly admired, because it allowed us to organically grow into each personality, issues they face, and the people immediately around them, in one way or another influencing their choices.
Another feature I found was that I loved the people around Arte and Charlotte. For a start, we all need a Freddie in our life! But for good or bad, these supporting characters are all seamlessly brought in and enhance the book as a whole. I admit, there was one character whose personality didn't completely flip 180 degrees, but what change did happen still had me sitting there eyebrows raised, simply not expecting that change to arise.
Now, from a more personal perspective. Domestic violence has a slight mention. It isn't a large part of the book at all, barely spoken about, in fact. I won't go into details, for fear of spoilers, but let me just say, as a IPV (Intimate Partner Violence) survivor, to see how it was written - was heartfelt and hopefully thought provoking for some readers. If nothing else, others might recognise that DV can happen to anyone and the toll it can take.
Of course, as is fairly typical of books like this, we were faced with some angst, but it was not only generally short lived, but fully believable in that moment.
We also had moments that had me chuckling out loud. Always a good sign.
Overall, like its companion, Broken Beyond Repair, this is a book that fits beautifully into most sapphic bookshelves. Even if romance isn't really your thing, I feel the characters alone are interesting enough to make it worth your while reading this.
It was an easy, absorbing read that had me wishing for more from the South Downs.
Easily giving this 5/5 stars 🌟 🌟🌟🌟🌟
August 12, 2023
Back to reality
There was something so endearing about this book that I wanted to devour it in one sitting and I wanted it to last forever. Definitely one of the best so far, this year.
The storyline is brilliant, characters amazing, and the humor is phenomenal.
Dreams do come true, in real life as well as in fiction.
Last but not least, the quick cameo appearance of two familiar faces got me hopeful; could these sweet characters come back again at some point?
There was something so endearing about this book that I wanted to devour it in one sitting and I wanted it to last forever. Definitely one of the best so far, this year.
The storyline is brilliant, characters amazing, and the humor is phenomenal.
Dreams do come true, in real life as well as in fiction.
Last but not least, the quick cameo appearance of two familiar faces got me hopeful; could these sweet characters come back again at some point?
August 28, 2023
✨reality in check�
if you're looking for an ice queen, a cute blonde wearing dungarees & a black labrador: read this feel-good story about change, grief & following your dreams - which can often lead to happiness & true love. also - charlotte must be protected at all costs 🥺 she is my baby! i also adored that beatrice & sydney appeared in the book.
if you're looking for an ice queen, a cute blonde wearing dungarees & a black labrador: read this feel-good story about change, grief & following your dreams - which can often lead to happiness & true love. also - charlotte must be protected at all costs 🥺 she is my baby! i also adored that beatrice & sydney appeared in the book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 209 reviews
Can't find what you're looking for?
Get help and learn more about the design.