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A Summer on the Riviera
They’re from different worlds, but for one summer their lives will suddenly collide... Bella Mason always dreamed of a life beyond her small town but never had the opportunity – until now. When she lands a job as chief stewardess on board a private yacht, it’s just the adventure she’s been looking for. After the last couple of years, renowned actress Felicity Kennedy is desperate for a break away from the spotlight. Escaping to the Riviera with her family, she’s ready for a blissful holiday with nothing but the fresh sea air and a cocktail in her hand. But as Bella and Felicity’s paths cross, their lives are about to change in a way they never saw coming. Now they’re setting sail on unfamiliar seas, navigating unexpected romance, confronting long-buried family secrets and discovering a whole new lease on life during this trip of a lifetime.
- GenresContemporary
320 pages, Paperback
Published May 2, 2023
240 people are currently reading
88 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
March 9, 2023
I received a free copy of, A Summer on the Riviera, by Rachel Barnett, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Bella Mason is going to have an exciting summer, she got her dream job as chief stewardess on a private yacht, with celebrities. I dont think I would like being on a boat for the summer, but Bella enjoyed it mostly, when she wasnt getting in trouble. A nice read.
August 20, 2024
Nette Sommerromanze zum wegschmökern
May 25, 2023
Thank you to insta book tours and Rachel Barnett for allowing me to be a part of this book tour.
The story follows Bella who works as a steward on a luxury yacht looking after a group of rich charters on their holiday in the Italian riviera.
The writing style described the setting beautifully and it was packed with boat drama, forbidden love, family feuds and displayed a glimpse of how the rich live.
I couldn't put this book down. The characters were likeable and well developed and it gave me all the summer vibes.
I highly recommend if you're looking for a romance full of drama and spice.
The story follows Bella who works as a steward on a luxury yacht looking after a group of rich charters on their holiday in the Italian riviera.
The writing style described the setting beautifully and it was packed with boat drama, forbidden love, family feuds and displayed a glimpse of how the rich live.
I couldn't put this book down. The characters were likeable and well developed and it gave me all the summer vibes.
I highly recommend if you're looking for a romance full of drama and spice.
May 11, 2023
Review to follow.
April 9, 2023
Definitely, an easy read for the coming summer!
Bella, the MC, has found herself the perfect summer job, as the first stewardess on a super yacht, using all the hospitality skills she has learned over the years working in hotels and restaurants, except she forgot that it is on a boat for the whole summer. And she gets travel sick! Oops!
First hurdle.
The second one is her roomie for the duration, who seems rather miffed at this newbie coming in and taking the position on the boat that she had hoped for.
Third, the first guests she has to host include a famous actress and her extremely tasty nephew.
And she CANNOT get involved... Can she?
This was an easy book to get into, with a good solid boy-meets-girl romance and several twists and turns along the way.
I can tell you that there was a moment towards the end before the climax when I literally held my breath, thinking that things might not work out...
So good!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Embla Books for an ARC.
Bella, the MC, has found herself the perfect summer job, as the first stewardess on a super yacht, using all the hospitality skills she has learned over the years working in hotels and restaurants, except she forgot that it is on a boat for the whole summer. And she gets travel sick! Oops!
First hurdle.
The second one is her roomie for the duration, who seems rather miffed at this newbie coming in and taking the position on the boat that she had hoped for.
Third, the first guests she has to host include a famous actress and her extremely tasty nephew.
And she CANNOT get involved... Can she?
This was an easy book to get into, with a good solid boy-meets-girl romance and several twists and turns along the way.
I can tell you that there was a moment towards the end before the climax when I literally held my breath, thinking that things might not work out...
So good!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Embla Books for an ARC.
May 29, 2023
This book has put me in the mood for a holiday. I know I'll never afford a super yacht, but a sun lounger by a pool is calling my name & A Summer on the Riviera would be the perfect accompaniment.
It's a wonderfully easy, pacy read with some tension & a little bit of spice thrown in. I love Below Deck & it was fab imagining the gorgeous settings (& equally gorgeous characters).
Definitely a summer scorcher to add to your holiday list.
It's a wonderfully easy, pacy read with some tension & a little bit of spice thrown in. I love Below Deck & it was fab imagining the gorgeous settings (& equally gorgeous characters).
Definitely a summer scorcher to add to your holiday list.
August 13, 2024
It was like reading an episode of Below Deck. She was a very bad chief stew.
May 2, 2023
This was my first book by author Rachel Barnett, and won’t be my last!
She also writes as Laura R. Leeson.
The title and the cover were what drew me first to this cute romance.
The storyline of the main character Bella Mason embarking on a new job on a private yacht, and the adventures to come, was what confirmed that I wanted to read this book.
The author is really good at depicting a fun, enjoyable, entertaining story, all while including some fun twists and turns.
I flew through this book and thoroughly enjoyed it!
Thankyou to author Rachel Barnett, Netgalley and Embla publishing for the opportunity to read this book!
Charlene 🌸🤗📚 @lastnownext
She also writes as Laura R. Leeson.
The title and the cover were what drew me first to this cute romance.
The storyline of the main character Bella Mason embarking on a new job on a private yacht, and the adventures to come, was what confirmed that I wanted to read this book.
The author is really good at depicting a fun, enjoyable, entertaining story, all while including some fun twists and turns.
I flew through this book and thoroughly enjoyed it!
Thankyou to author Rachel Barnett, Netgalley and Embla publishing for the opportunity to read this book!
Charlene 🌸🤗📚 @lastnownext
June 30, 2025
A wonderfully written easy-read romance. A few twists and turns along the way, but otherwise a beautiful boy meets girl ending. The characters are easy to follow, and the storyline flows at a great pace. After reading a lot of heavy thriller/mystery books lately, this was a great lighthearted change of pace.
I can’t wait to read more by this author. Thank you NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this book.
I can’t wait to read more by this author. Thank you NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this book.
May 22, 2023
A luxury yacht, secrets, forbidden love and boat drama, this book has it all!
Bella Mason is the chief stewardess on board the private yacht blue sky. She is new in the yachting world and this comes with quite some challenges. Bella gets seasick on her first day of work and the second stew doesn’t seem too happy with Bella’s arrival either. On top of that, the first guests of the season prove to be quite the challenge. Bella is happy with this new adventure in her life, but will she be able to do her job?
Actress Felicity Kennedy needs a break from her busy life in the spotlight. She takes her family on a trip on this luxury yacht in the Riviera. Felicity is ready to relax and spend some well-deserved time with her husband Nikolai. Her friend Patti and Patti’s daughter Hannah and nephew Leo also come along on this trip. Later her lawyer Jeremy, joins them too. Why does he need to come along with them?
It seems that more than one person on this boat is having secrets. During the read more and more layers of those secrets are being revealed. What secrets will be revealed?
There is also a forbidden boat romance. There is an obvious spark between the characters. Will they be able to overcome the challenges that they are facing during this boat trip?
I really enjoyed reading this story. The characters are well developed. As the story progresses, you really get the know the characters. You travel along with the guests and crew on this boat trip.
If you are looking for the perfect summer read? Look no further, this book has it all!
If you like the tv series Below deck, this book is a must-read for you!
Are you ready to set sail to the Rivera?
July 8, 2023
A Summer on the Riviera by Rachel Barnett
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to NetGalley and Embla Books and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
They're from different worlds, but for one summer their lives will suddenly collide...
Bella Mason always dreamed of a life beyond her small town but never had the opportunity - until now. When she lands a job as chief stewardess on board a private yacht, it's just the adventure she's been looking for.
After the last couple of years, renowned actress Felicity Kennedy is desperate for a break away from the spotlight. Escaping to the Riviera with her family, she's ready for a blissful holiday with nothing but the fresh sea air and a cocktail in her hand.
But as Bella and Felicity's paths cross, their lives are about to change in a way they never saw coming. Now they're setting sail on unfamiliar seas, navigating unexpected romance, confronting long-buried family secrets and discovering a whole new lease on life during this trip of a lifetime.
My Opinion
Bella is looking forward to starting her new job, she has secured a role as chief stewardess onboard a private yacht for the summer. As the first celebrities board the yacht, Bella quickly realises that they are from different worlds.
This is a lovely holiday read and an easy book to get lost in. The plot flows nicely, and I enjoyed the way that Felicity's secrets are slowly revealed to the reader. This is the first book I have read by Rachel Barnett but I am sure I will be back for more.
Rating 4/5
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to NetGalley and Embla Books and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
They're from different worlds, but for one summer their lives will suddenly collide...
Bella Mason always dreamed of a life beyond her small town but never had the opportunity - until now. When she lands a job as chief stewardess on board a private yacht, it's just the adventure she's been looking for.
After the last couple of years, renowned actress Felicity Kennedy is desperate for a break away from the spotlight. Escaping to the Riviera with her family, she's ready for a blissful holiday with nothing but the fresh sea air and a cocktail in her hand.
But as Bella and Felicity's paths cross, their lives are about to change in a way they never saw coming. Now they're setting sail on unfamiliar seas, navigating unexpected romance, confronting long-buried family secrets and discovering a whole new lease on life during this trip of a lifetime.
My Opinion
Bella is looking forward to starting her new job, she has secured a role as chief stewardess onboard a private yacht for the summer. As the first celebrities board the yacht, Bella quickly realises that they are from different worlds.
This is a lovely holiday read and an easy book to get lost in. The plot flows nicely, and I enjoyed the way that Felicity's secrets are slowly revealed to the reader. This is the first book I have read by Rachel Barnett but I am sure I will be back for more.
Rating 4/5
April 27, 2023
A Summer on the Riviera by Rachel Barnett is a light-hearted, cosy escapist read. From the get-go, it reminded me of the TV show "Below Deck", with vivid and not overtly done descriptions. Rachel Barnett has created a great mix of characters, and their secrets and motivations are deciphered exceptionally well throughout the book.
The protagonist Bella comes from humble beginnings and is driven to establish a name for herself in a new industry. But when the heart wants what it wants, will she choose love or her career? About 40% in, the realm of possibilities and the danger of secrets being unearthed gave this a surprising element of tension and suspense. I was engaged throughout and turned pages to see how the ending unfolded. The ending had a few loose ends, which made it a tad underwhelming, but overall, it was realistic and well done. If you're looking for a book with suspense and romance elements, do not skip this one!
Thank you, NetGalley & Embla Books, for inviting me to read this ARC. This honest review is left voluntarily.
The protagonist Bella comes from humble beginnings and is driven to establish a name for herself in a new industry. But when the heart wants what it wants, will she choose love or her career? About 40% in, the realm of possibilities and the danger of secrets being unearthed gave this a surprising element of tension and suspense. I was engaged throughout and turned pages to see how the ending unfolded. The ending had a few loose ends, which made it a tad underwhelming, but overall, it was realistic and well done. If you're looking for a book with suspense and romance elements, do not skip this one!
Thank you, NetGalley & Embla Books, for inviting me to read this ARC. This honest review is left voluntarily.
July 18, 2024
I could imagine this as a really glamorous movie, or perhaps even a drama series. There are enough mini cliffhangers, or moments of intrigue, and so many secrets that it would make for some compelling viewing.
In fact it makes for compelling reading too, and I absolutely adored the Italian Riviera setting, on board a superyacht.
Our leading ladies couldn't be more different, one a brand new chief steward on board the ship, and the other an incredibly well respected actress. Add in jealous crew members, a captain that I really disliked, a sexy nephew amongst the guests onboard, and a lawyer with ulterior motives and you have what is one rather eventful private charter.
I had to keep reading to discover just what would happen next, while also loving life on the super yacht.
I just found this incredibly enjoyable and this was my first experience of this author. Needless to say I will definitely be looking out for more, as I love this sort of book.
Thank you to Embla Books and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
In fact it makes for compelling reading too, and I absolutely adored the Italian Riviera setting, on board a superyacht.
Our leading ladies couldn't be more different, one a brand new chief steward on board the ship, and the other an incredibly well respected actress. Add in jealous crew members, a captain that I really disliked, a sexy nephew amongst the guests onboard, and a lawyer with ulterior motives and you have what is one rather eventful private charter.
I had to keep reading to discover just what would happen next, while also loving life on the super yacht.
I just found this incredibly enjoyable and this was my first experience of this author. Needless to say I will definitely be looking out for more, as I love this sort of book.
Thank you to Embla Books and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
May 24, 2023
I'd like to thank Instabooktours and Embla Books for having me on the tour.
🚢This is the summer read that I very much needed. Set onboard a yacht with the picturesque ocean, I was easily transported to this idyllic setting. Rachel Barnett gives us beautiful descriptions without being too detailed, allowing our imaginations to get creative.
🌊This was a fun, quick and easy read with plenty of action. Many storylines were present throughout the read, and I loved how they weaved into each other. Initially, I did wonder if I would get a bit lost however, it was surprisingly easy to follow.
💖The slow-burn romance between Bella and Leo was my favourite part of the story. The chemistry was well written, the hopeless romantic in me was rooting for them from the start.
⭐With entertaining characters and a luxurious backdrop this book is the perfect escapist read for the summer.
🚢This is the summer read that I very much needed. Set onboard a yacht with the picturesque ocean, I was easily transported to this idyllic setting. Rachel Barnett gives us beautiful descriptions without being too detailed, allowing our imaginations to get creative.
🌊This was a fun, quick and easy read with plenty of action. Many storylines were present throughout the read, and I loved how they weaved into each other. Initially, I did wonder if I would get a bit lost however, it was surprisingly easy to follow.
💖The slow-burn romance between Bella and Leo was my favourite part of the story. The chemistry was well written, the hopeless romantic in me was rooting for them from the start.
⭐With entertaining characters and a luxurious backdrop this book is the perfect escapist read for the summer.
June 9, 2025
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book. I have chosen to write this honest review voluntarily and it reflects my personal opinion.
I read almost half of this book before giving up due to my increasing dislike of the lack of credibility. Whilst I enjoy books I can escape into there was just too much in the plotlines that didn't ring true:
Someone who's never been on a boat (and realised she suffered from seasickness) applies for a job on a cruise ship?
And is offered a senior post?
A wife joins in a party game to spell her husband's surname?
A major health issue is hidden from a loving partner?
I didn't think any of the characters were particularly likeable and whilst I'm no prude I was horrified that Mel would seduce a married man after he's already ended their association once. This book wasn't for me.
I read almost half of this book before giving up due to my increasing dislike of the lack of credibility. Whilst I enjoy books I can escape into there was just too much in the plotlines that didn't ring true:
Someone who's never been on a boat (and realised she suffered from seasickness) applies for a job on a cruise ship?
And is offered a senior post?
A wife joins in a party game to spell her husband's surname?
A major health issue is hidden from a loving partner?
I didn't think any of the characters were particularly likeable and whilst I'm no prude I was horrified that Mel would seduce a married man after he's already ended their association once. This book wasn't for me.
April 22, 2023
New author Rachel Barnett is well worth reading!! A fresh new style to enjoy, loved it!
Bella has been working in the hospitality industry and has dreamt of a summer sailing in the Mediterranean giving the best service as part of the crew on a prestigious yacht as chief stewardess. It’s an adventure that will test her to her limits! The first group to charter bring unexpected interest, intrigue, family secrets and more affecting Bella and the dynamics of the crew.
Highly entertaining summer escapism, this is a fabulous feel good read!!! Perfect as part of your holiday reading, hard to put down and hard to leave the characters once finished. Great story, great characters!! Just brilliant!!
Can’t wait for more from Rachel!!
Thank you to NetGalley and Embla books for the early read!!
Bella has been working in the hospitality industry and has dreamt of a summer sailing in the Mediterranean giving the best service as part of the crew on a prestigious yacht as chief stewardess. It’s an adventure that will test her to her limits! The first group to charter bring unexpected interest, intrigue, family secrets and more affecting Bella and the dynamics of the crew.
Highly entertaining summer escapism, this is a fabulous feel good read!!! Perfect as part of your holiday reading, hard to put down and hard to leave the characters once finished. Great story, great characters!! Just brilliant!!
Can’t wait for more from Rachel!!
Thank you to NetGalley and Embla books for the early read!!
April 25, 2023
A Summer on the Riviera by Rachel Burnett was so good.
It started slow for me cause it reminded me of my favorite show, below deck. But about 40% in it took A turn and I couldn't stop reading it. Lots of twists and turns I never saw coming. I was expecting it to be like all the other romance books but it definitely was not.
I was drawn to Bella, as she was falling in love fast. Cause her to have to choose between A job or love. Could you choose if you had too? Must read to find out what she chooses. Like I said lots of turns and I definitely don't want to spoil it for anyone.
Pre-order this book today so that you have it when it releases on May 2nd. I highly recommend this book and I hope there will be a book 2.
It started slow for me cause it reminded me of my favorite show, below deck. But about 40% in it took A turn and I couldn't stop reading it. Lots of twists and turns I never saw coming. I was expecting it to be like all the other romance books but it definitely was not.
I was drawn to Bella, as she was falling in love fast. Cause her to have to choose between A job or love. Could you choose if you had too? Must read to find out what she chooses. Like I said lots of turns and I definitely don't want to spoil it for anyone.
Pre-order this book today so that you have it when it releases on May 2nd. I highly recommend this book and I hope there will be a book 2.
May 14, 2023
Bella is excited about her new position as lead stewardess on a private cruise line. Until she meets her second in command, and roommate, Mel, who seems to have a grudge against her. Their first group of passengers includes actress Felicia Kennedy and her friends and family. Nerve wracking enough, as Bella is a huge fan of Felicia's, but her nephew, Leo, immediately catches Bella's eye. An unrequited crush is one thing, but Leo reciprocates Bella's interest and fraternization with passengers is strictly forbidden.
This is classic escapist reading, with beautiful scenery, fabulously rich characters, and traditional conflicts. It could be trite, but the setting and characters elevate it. #ASummerontheRiviera #NetGalley
This is classic escapist reading, with beautiful scenery, fabulously rich characters, and traditional conflicts. It could be trite, but the setting and characters elevate it. #ASummerontheRiviera #NetGalley
February 22, 2024
This one is a must for fans of 'Below Deck' as we follow the exploits of Bella as she takes on the role of chief stew on her first summer on the Italian Riviera. But her very first charter is not without bumps in the road - when she meets the irresistible Leo who is accompanying his superstar aunt on their cruise.
With the ups and downs of being part of a crew on a luxury ship, and a host of demanding guests, will Bella keep it together for the season?
I really enjoyed this book and it's made me yearn for some summer sun! Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
With the ups and downs of being part of a crew on a luxury ship, and a host of demanding guests, will Bella keep it together for the season?
I really enjoyed this book and it's made me yearn for some summer sun! Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
March 8, 2023
A summer job on a yacht, sign me up! Bella takes on a new hospitality adventure, struggling to find her way with colleagues and learning the yacht lingo. When a group of celebrities set sail for a week life changes occur that will keep you guessing. This book was full of subtle twists and turns, that kept you wanting more.
This book was a quick and easy read and I’d recommend it for anyone wanting a little family mystery. Thank you to NetGalley for an early copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
This book was a quick and easy read and I’d recommend it for anyone wanting a little family mystery. Thank you to NetGalley for an early copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
July 3, 2023
Dissatisfied with her life Bella decides to quit her job in hotel management and take a position as the First Stewardess of a luxury superyacht. Onboard she meets the first person to charter the yacht, a famous actress named Felicity, whom it seems is also dissatisfied with her life and dreams of her own escape. Bella also has to contend with travel sickness, a cabin mate who obviously does not want her there, and the irresistible chemistry between her and a very famous party guest.
A nice light, easy summer read.
A nice light, easy summer read.
April 17, 2023
3.5 stars rounded up.
Bella has landed a new job as first stewardess on a luxury yacht for the summer.
Not everything is plain sailing as second stewardess Mel takes a dislike to Bella as she feels the job should have been hers.
Bella also suffers seasickness.
There is plenty of drama in this cosy summer romance, and for the most part, it was an enjoyable read.
I felt the ending was a little rushed
Thanks to Embla Books for the ARC in return for an honest review and to Netgalley
Bella has landed a new job as first stewardess on a luxury yacht for the summer.
Not everything is plain sailing as second stewardess Mel takes a dislike to Bella as she feels the job should have been hers.
Bella also suffers seasickness.
There is plenty of drama in this cosy summer romance, and for the most part, it was an enjoyable read.
I felt the ending was a little rushed
Thanks to Embla Books for the ARC in return for an honest review and to Netgalley
May 11, 2023
This was pure escapism for me. Bella gets a job as chief stewardess on a luxury liner. It's her job to make sure that the very wealthy customers have a dream holiday. She meets opposition from the 2nd steward which could make the summer difficult
Their first charter includes movie stars and a great storyline. The characters are well rounded and the love interest sounds wonderful
I can't wait to read more.
Their first charter includes movie stars and a great storyline. The characters are well rounded and the love interest sounds wonderful
I can't wait to read more.
May 15, 2023
I really enjoyed learning a little about life on a super yacht. The setting was pure indulgence!
I liked the characters. However, I'd have liked Mel to evolve a little further, J-P to have been exposed and to know more about Jessica. Perhaps things have been left open for a sequel back on-board Blue Sky, though I'm not sure it has enough left to be made into a series. It was very standalone.
I enjoyed the read, the writing and the story. I'd definitely pick up more by this author.
I liked the characters. However, I'd have liked Mel to evolve a little further, J-P to have been exposed and to know more about Jessica. Perhaps things have been left open for a sequel back on-board Blue Sky, though I'm not sure it has enough left to be made into a series. It was very standalone.
I enjoyed the read, the writing and the story. I'd definitely pick up more by this author.
May 29, 2023
I was hoping it was going to be more like Below Deck, with lots more stories about several charters, and the adventures of Bella and the crew of Blue Skies. But it is all about one charter only. The attraction of Bella and Leo, the mystery illness of the primary guest, the relationships between the crew and the guests, and secrets that come out. It all just happens on the yacht in a beautiful part of the world. A nice holiday read
June 2, 2023
A perfect summer read!
escape on a luxury yacht as Bella Mason the Chief Stewardess onboard, starts her new job.
Felicity Kennedy, a well known actress decides to book a private luxury yacht for a break to get away to the Riviera with her family and guests.
Great characters, secrets to be discovered, romance and scheming crew mates.
A great book to get into, easy paced and definitely gets you in the mood for a holiday.
A must read for this summer ☀️
June 30, 2024
A Summer on the Riviera: A gorgeously heartwarming and escapist summer read of friendship, forbidden love and family secrets.
Rachel Barnett has written a wonderful tale of love and adventure on the seas of the Riviera. I would recommend you could read this while lazing on your summer holidays however you spend them. It was wonderfully written with lovely characters and lots of intrigue. Lots of love fun and laughter. Enjoy! I did.
Rachel Barnett has written a wonderful tale of love and adventure on the seas of the Riviera. I would recommend you could read this while lazing on your summer holidays however you spend them. It was wonderfully written with lovely characters and lots of intrigue. Lots of love fun and laughter. Enjoy! I did.
July 15, 2023
2.5 ⭐️Summer on the Riviera was an easy read, but it didn’t wow me in anyway. I didn’t really connect with any of the characters, and at times it felt like there was too much going on. Overall it is a cute, summer read but not entirely memorable.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
July 27, 2024
A Few Curveballs From Screwballs!
I liked the variety of personalities and the intricate details of each character’s story. The descriptions of crew life on a yacht was very different from what I imagined. The destinations in ports were fascinating, although lacking in detail. Intimacy details between lovers left little to the imagination!
I liked the variety of personalities and the intricate details of each character’s story. The descriptions of crew life on a yacht was very different from what I imagined. The destinations in ports were fascinating, although lacking in detail. Intimacy details between lovers left little to the imagination!
March 9, 2023
An adventure set on an extremely expensive yacht. Bella is working her first season as a steward and wants it to go well. The first people on the trip are actors who bring with them mystery and intrigue.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews