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London Romance #9

London Ever After

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Amid London’s hustle, an unexpected love story begins…

Hannah Driver’s life is on the skids: single, newly jobless, and nursing ambitions of becoming a drag king that make her traditional family baulk. She’s at a crossroads.

Enter Cordy Starling, the charming and composed pianist who moves in with Hannah, and quickly becomes the nudge—or rather, full-on shove—Hannah needs to chase her dreams. The prospect of romance with Cordy twinkles on the horizon like a disco ball, promising glitter but guaranteeing chaos.

Together, they embark on a jagged journey of self-discovery, dodging family scepticism and their own reservations, as Hannah embraces her new persona, while winning over her toughest critic: herself. When Hannah and Cordy’s world merges with the cast of unforgettable characters from previous stories, it gives everyone the send-off they deserve.

London Ever After is your ticket to a generous slice of London sapphic life, and also to the party of the year. Grab a cocktail, kick back, and revel in the final story of the London Romance series!

296 pages, Paperback

Published February 20, 2024

16 people are currently reading
123 people want to read

About the author

Clare Lydon

43 books1,583 followers
Clare Lydon is a London-based writer of contemporary lesbian romance. She's a No.1 best-seller on lesbian fiction charts around the globe with five full-length novels to her name, as well as writing the All I Want series, set to continue throughout 2016. If you love romantic comedies, prepare to fall head over heels in love.

If you like books shot through with witty dialogue, 3D characters and sharp observations of modern lesbian life, why not give Clare's books a try?

More at: www.clarelydon.co.uk

Get a copy of my free Christmas novella 'It Had To Be You' by signing up to my mailing list here:

www.clarelydon.co.uk/it-had-to-be-you

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5 stars
66 (49%)
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36 (27%)
3 stars
27 (20%)
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3 (2%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
Profile Image for Howard.
2,135 reviews121 followers
August 21, 2024
4 Stars for London Ever After (audiobook) by Clare Lydon read by Claire Storey.

Hanna loses her girlfriend and her job and has to take someone in to help split the rent. The new roommate Cordy inspires Hanna to give her dreams of burlesque and drag a chance. The two end up being a hot number on stage and off.
Profile Image for Lesbereading.
187 reviews525 followers
March 30, 2024
Really enjoyed this unique storyline. I have to be honest and say I haven’t read the other books in the series yet, but it didn’t take away from this book at all. The chemistry was steaming and their friendship to relationship was written super well.

Thank you to the author for sending the arc exchange for an honest review!
Profile Image for Aster.
378 reviews161 followers
July 16, 2025
impressively stale and boring writing
437 reviews18 followers
February 18, 2024
Grand finale of a wonderful f/f romance series
Hard to fathom that Lydon‘s wonderful series of heartwarming romances set in London has come to its end. But fortunately for us readers not with a really big finale where all those wonderful couples of the first eight books have there cameos and we can wave good bye (maybe not forever).
Of course London Ever After is itself a romance and if you absolutely must you can read it as stand-alone: It starts with a very London problem. Hannah needs a flatmate because her girlfriend left her and Cordy needs a flatshare to start her independent life in London. Living in a one bedroom flat is certainly not an easy feat - thank goodness there is great chemistry and a mutual crush helping them along.
What I really liked and what sets this romance apart is how we get a glimpse at the drag king scene throughout the book. Hannah is an aspiring drag king and takes part in a big competition and I loved how Lydon presented her two personas - the more insecure Hannah (she) and strutting Max Girth (he). And OMG those drag king names: Max Girth, Sir Beef of Loin and of course Captain Von Strap. And the story lives up to those names.
This is a great romp with some deeper insights and a joy to read. Lydon manages again to entertain us readers thoroughly - good bye to 10 years of London love.

I received an ARC. The review is left voluntarily.
Profile Image for Kexx.
2,341 reviews104 followers
August 12, 2025
Lovely ending to a superb series. 5* all the way though, except Book 8 which was ‘plot spoilt’ by book 7…! Really brilliant, thank you Clare.

Lovely to read-read them all as well. They stand up well in retrospect.
Profile Image for Carol Hutchinson.
1,124 reviews73 followers
April 3, 2024
So much fun!

Hannah has just lost her job but is determined to make it performing and living out her dream of being a drag king. She meets Cordy unexpectedly then is shocked when she is the one who turns up in response to her advert for a roommate. With Cordy’s support, Hannah is empowered to embrace her new persona, Max, and the happiness she deserves.

Everything about this was great! I love the London series and how they all interweave with a cast of characters that pop up from time to time, but the main characters of each story are different making them great individual reads. Cordy, Hannah, and Max all bring quirky personalities and exciting moments to the story. There is this great connection between Cordy and Hannah, an almost instant attraction that Hannah tries to resist but just can’t. Cordy is so kind and supportive of what she is trying to do and achieve that it is infectious and she cannot resist.

The drag king part, where Max really comes to life and becomes his own character make the story. Elevating it into glitz and glamour but also bringing the tension. It’s what she does for a living that make all the drama for Hannah with her family. But Cordy is a success in the arts, so Hannah clings to that in the hope that with Cordy’s support she doesn’t need anyone else. However the past and her family are looming to remind Hannah she needs to take action and act on her feelings if she really wants true happiness and all her dreams to come true with Cordy in her life.

An addictive, light-hearted and fun romance, with the classic touch of humour I have come to know and love in Clare’s London Romance series, that made it super enjoyable!
Profile Image for currentlyreadingbynat.
877 reviews101 followers
March 5, 2024
London Ever After marks a poignant conclusion to Lydon's captivating romance saga set against the vibrant backdrop of London. As we say goodbye to this series and the memorable couples from the previous eight books, this grand finale offers a fresh romance that can stand on its own.

The story kicks off with a London dilemma: Hannah finds herself in need of a flatmate after her girlfriend's departure, while Cordy seeks a flatshare to kickstart her new chapter in London. Their journey from flatmates in a cramped one-bedroom flat to something more is facilitated by undeniable chemistry and a shared crush, setting the stage for a uniquely heartwarming romance.

What truly distinguishes London Ever After is its deep dive into the drag king scene, a refreshing perspective not often explored in lesfic novels. Hannah, an aspiring drag king, navigates the competition circuit as Max Girth, showcasing Lydon's cleverness not only through the ingenious drag names but also in presenting the duality of Hannah's persona. The exploration of Hannah's onstage confidence as Max Girth versus her offstage insecurities adds depth and nuance to the narrative.

This novel is a delightful mix of humor, heart, and insight, with Lydon's storytelling prowess on full display. The evolving relationship between Hannah and Cordy, coupled with the exploration of identity through Hannah's alter ego, provides a thoughtful examination of love and self-discovery. While newcomers to the series can enjoy this book as a standalone, delving into the earlier novels promises a richer experience, offering a deeper connection to Lydon's beautifully crafted London universe. London Ever After is a fitting and satisfying finale to a beloved series.

Many thanks to Clare Lydon for providing me a copy of this novel. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Rachel’s Sapphfic Reviews.
174 reviews87 followers
April 5, 2024
I read and reviewed this for The Lesbian Review.

4.5 🌟. I’ve enjoyed every book in this series of standalones. Some I’ve loved and have read several times.

London Ever After is a beautiful story to end it on. While it’s not my favourite, I really enjoyed it and recommend it to anyone who loves The London Romance series.
Profile Image for Fran Sappharc.
825 reviews46 followers
February 26, 2024
Lydon makes me lol, literally. I did it a fair few times with this book. Especially with the meet cute, or should that be meet fruit at the start.
Yes it was nice to catch up with her characters from the rest in the series but it was more, “l think I remember their story” than “ohh is know them” as some were read a good while and many books ago. If this is the first you’ve read in the connected series, you won’t lose out by not having read the others, however if you don’t read the others, you do miss some good books.
I don’t remember having read much with drag kings, so that was interesting and I liked how Lydon set it. I also like how we see the relationship develop. As well as the framing of the alter ego. A tiny bit of angst but all is well in the end and a suitable end to a good series.
Profile Image for Reen A.
18 reviews
February 27, 2024
I have now read all the books in this series. And this one is definitely in my top 3. In fact reading this and having old familiar faces pop up has given me the itch to start at the beginning again and revisit old friends. Or at least characters that I would love to have as my friends.

As always Clare Lydon's humor shines throughout the book. The opening chapter really sets the stage for the fun and shenanigans that make up the rest of the story.
Cordy is in need of an apartment and Hannah desperately needs a roommate to pay her bills. Their living situation has them both doing their very best to ignore the obvious attraction between them. I don't know how to gush about the rest without spoilers.

I liked both Cordy and Hannah but Hannah was my favorite character. Her life may feel like it's imploding but she has the courage to push through. And meeting Cordy and her neighbors inspires her to join the world of drag. And on that journey she starts to consider her own gender identity. Throw in family drama, a reappearing ex, and a few other obstacles and Hannah really goes through it. But the exploration and growth is really beautiful to read.
As an enby person AFAB I really loved Hannah's gender exploration. Very few sapphic books I have found venture into this territory. It is thoughtfully done and as a bonus well received and supported.

I highly recommend this book. Everyone who enjoys sapphic romance should read it.
111 reviews
March 1, 2024
I absolutely loved this book! I haven't read any of the other London series books and you really don't need to in order to properly enjoy this book. Though I do plan to go back and read the others. This one was a fun and very spicy read. Watching Hannah really come into her own as the story went along was so great, such wonderful character development. I loved Cordy also, her interactions with her grandma and how well she supported Hannah's journey were very heart warming. And I can't express enough how incredible the spicy scenes between these two are! Definitely pick this one up!!
1,276 reviews
February 24, 2024
What a grand send-off!

Unable to afford her expensive London flat on her own, she rents to Cordy, a music teacher. Sharing this small space certainly helps them find their way together, but I really loved the way in which Cordy helped Hannah to grow as an individual to truly seek her dreams. She was a friend, confidante and mentor, as well as a love interest. Hannah is a performer in a Drag King show and Clare gives us a unique perspective into that life.

Even if I hadn't read this entire fabulous series, I was captured by this final story from the very beginning. In true Clare Lydon humor, she set the stage with a very hilarious scene filled with roll away oranges on the tube! Then she out does herself with drag king names that had me rolling with laughter. Captain Von Strap, Sir Loin of Beef and Hannah's alter ego Max Girth - come on now, I dare you not to chuckle! The characters are great and the story is so well-written. What a grand send-off for this fabulous rom-com series!
Profile Image for Meghan.
703 reviews11 followers
February 27, 2024
This made me laugh out loud numerous times. Lydon never fails to deliver witty dialog, sexy first kisses, and more.

Hannah Driver's life is upended when she loses her job and girlfriend in quick succession. Her dreams of becoming a drag king may not happen due to her fears and her traditional family.

Corey starling is looking for a place to rent after she moves to London. She moves in with Hannah and helps her make her dream a reality.

This was a book of self-discovery and love where you least expect it.

I adored this book, and it was a fitting conclusion to this wonderful series. Highly recommend that even if you haven't read the other books, still read this one.
4 reviews
February 29, 2024
Worth the Wait

Absolutely have loved the London series and again the author has written a humorous and heartwarming book. I read this in one go as it was so good. Do yourself a favour and purchase this book or the other books if you haven’t read them. You won’t be disappointed.
70 reviews1 follower
February 29, 2024
Love the conclusion of this series. It is a standalone book but you do see some familiar faces pop up. Great read.
Profile Image for Mari Stark.
257 reviews6 followers
February 21, 2024
Excellent conclusion of the series

The London series has been captivating from start to finish, and this book is an excellent way to conclude it. It is an extraordinary piece of expertly developed writing, with well-rounded characters and a compelling plot. Clare is an incredibly talented writer who outdoes herself with each book.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. The characters are lovable, well-developed, and wonderfully portrayed. We witness two people who are roommates due to unforeseen circumstances and watch as they navigate not only their new living arrangements but how as they get to know each other better, their lives intertwine in a fun and beautiful way. The narrative also offers glimpses into the drag king scene, which is intriguingly portrayed. Furthermore, we see familiar characters from previous books in the series.

I highly recommend this fantastic romantic comedy.

I received an ARC for an honest review.
330 reviews
February 27, 2024
Cordy and Hannah are another extraordinary couple in the London series. Their story is one of self-discovery, reaching for dreams, and romance. Enjoyed the gathering of the couples from the series attending the party. A poignant farewell to this lovely series.
Profile Image for Emily.
53 reviews3 followers
February 26, 2024
Clare Lydon does it again!!
This book was the perfect romance to start the year! The characters are relatable and quirky and fun. The story line is seamless and flawless. I couldn’t put it down. 🤩 highly recommend!
Profile Image for Maz Tucker.
298 reviews7 followers
February 24, 2024
Clare Lydon and the London series are perfect. You know you will always get a good read with twist and turns of the heart. The main characters are so well written, you love them and become their cheerleader. It was great to revisit some of the other characters from the series and seeing how they were all getting on. It felt like a big family catch-up. Another great book to make you smile.
Profile Image for Rowan.
310 reviews3 followers
February 16, 2024
Just loved the whole ‘London’ series from Ms Lydon, built I think this is the best book. Hannah has been dumped and is struggling to afford her one bed flat in expensive London. She has the bright idea to advertise for a room mate; and whilst the roommate will have the bedroom, she will have a bed in the lounge. Cordy, an music teacher, applies for the room. They get on famously and Cordy helps Hannah grow as a person and in her work as a performer. Minimal aghast, Really well written, with good rounded character developments and humour. Would highly recommend.
310 reviews2 followers
May 7, 2024
Burlesque and Drag Kings!

I think I’m just maybe too old to be enamoured by performers choosing to be burlesque and drag king artists…or maybe it’s just that the only drag kings I’ve ever seen perform were really bad!
I enjoyed the main relationship conveyed here between Hannah and Cordy. The ‘Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit’ start and the 3 things lists were particular highlights for me. I also liked that whilst there’s a threat to their developing relationship at about 80% they talk about things, instead of breaking up (before making up)
Clare Lydon has managed to include cameo’s from all the previous couples written about in previous books - particularly Kate and Meg from book 2 and Eunice and Joan from book 8 (Eunice is Cordy’s grandmother).You can see how life has progressed for some of the characters you’ve got to know and love.
Well written as usual by the author but not my personal favourite. But ignore me...especially if you’re in your 20’s or 30’s and ‘get the scene’ better than I do!
66 reviews1 follower
March 1, 2024
Oh wow, we are in London 9 book already, it seems like yesterday when I found by chance London Calling and since then I have been a huge fan. All books in the series can be read standalone but I wish my memory was slightly better because although I can recall few things from Book 8 I definitely have a lots of gaps from Meg and Kate’s book (maybe I need a London Marathon of books not running it though). What I love about Clare’s books is how easy you get into them and their humour, orange lady in the tube is a brilliant start! I am big fan of RuPaul’s Drag race, so all the drag king scene was really up to my alley. I like how the character of Hannah is portraited, so insecure of being herself but able to perform being someone else in both extremes of the spectrum, I find it so fascinating and so truthful at the same time. Overall, a great read and what you would expect from the London series.
Profile Image for Dorothy Bennett.
Author 7 books29 followers
April 7, 2024
Clare Lydon is a best-selling writer of lesbian (or Sapphic) fiction; LONDON EVER AFTER is the final (9th) book in her series set in London, England. Hannah and Cordy are young lesbians sorting themselves out and pursuing performance art to find themselves and increase their sense of confidence and self-esteem. After making an unexpected connection, they share a flat, make passionate love, and try to figure out what to do with their mutual attraction. This story is standalone, but it fits right in as the conclusion of the London series. The final scene exudes happiness and love between the young lesbians and their families; it also makes a satifying finish to the London stories. If you love lesbian romance, you're sure to enjoy this one!
55 reviews5 followers
February 26, 2024
With every book in this series they’ve got better and better! This one definitely hits the top! It’s a slow burn that’s pretty hot in its buildup. Hannah Corey have a brief encounter involving oranges but, they find themselves living in a small flat together sharing the space. Hannah is having problems accepting herself and with encouragement from Corey eventually slips into a drag king persona and, with exceptional talent. It’s an interesting and, well written subject that I truly enjoyed. Great book. Pity it’s the end of this series, it’s been a real cracker!
129 reviews
February 26, 2024
From the hilarious first line I was hooked on this book and it just continued to get better and better. Clare Lydon brought her A+ game to this final book in the London Romance Series. It’s funny, extremely sexy, heartwarming, full of love and has a great cast of characters. What more can you ask for in a sapphic romance? I loved the spunky lesbian grandmothers as much as everyone else in the town does. I hate to see the series end, but what an epic ending.
Profile Image for MS J.
162 reviews1 follower
March 4, 2024
I've read all the books in the London series and think I can safely say that for me thay have got better over time.
I really enjoyed catching up with the characters from previous books.
Hannah and Corey's story was a lovely read, enjoyed the drag king story line, and oranges, especially Elvis... made me chuckle.
Who knows if this will truly be the last London book, could their be a London Encore????
Profile Image for Fiona W.
6 reviews
March 15, 2024
I started reading the London romance series almost exactly ten years ago and what a ten years it’s been. I loved all the main characters (but mostly India 😍) and it was great to see them all one last time.
The story of Cordy and Hannah was modern, cool and very hot 🥵. You can’t have too many drag kings in a story imo, and the romance was believable and heartwarming.
I’m sad to see them go, but I’m sure Clare has many more amazing stories to entertain us with in the future.
Profile Image for Marta.
296 reviews7 followers
September 1, 2024
Last book in the series and it is wonderful. I loved it! I loved development of Hannah’s character and how the love between them progressed. It was just great. Good ending to the series, although, I am sure I am going to miss that there always show up some known characters from previous books and I could get a glimpse of their future and knowledge how their life turned out.
Profile Image for Vita L. Licari.
920 reviews45 followers
March 8, 2024
A fantastic conclusion to a great series. Hannah and Cordy are two beautiful MCs! Plus we meet up again with all the MCs from the first 8 books. I love how Hannah finds herself as a drag King with Cordy's help and support. This story wraps you up like a warm blanket. 5 stars!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews

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