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Bombshell
The funniest and most heart-warming Christmas romcom of 2024 from the much-loved TV presenter Alison Hammond, perfect for fans of Sophie Kinsella and Ruth Jones.
‘If you read one novel, make it Bombshell!’ Vanessa Feltz
'I loved the whole book . . . couldn't put it down!' 5 STAR reader review
'Not what I expected!' 5 STAR reader review
'An inspiring read' Woman's Own
Her worst nightmare might just be the making of her . . .
Family has always meant everything to Madison. Married to the nation’s heartthrob, TV handyman Rich, with two beautiful children, she’s always put their needs first. And she’s never regretted a second, even if her own career has taken a backseat.
Then, out of the blue, Rich drops a bombshell. He needs some space and he’s moving out.
Overwhelmed by this revelation, Madison turns to her tight-knit group of friends for help. But when their support isn’t enough, Madison resolves to find out what’s really going on. Even if it means turning detective on her own husband.
And with her own interior-design career about to take off (once her manager stops squashing her bold ideas for his terrible ones, and provided she doesn’t get distracted by the new guy in the office), Madison’s about to rediscover her own worth.
She’s a bombshell, after all…
PRAISE FOR ALISON
'Alison Hammond is magnetic' Closer
'[A] national treasure' Metro
'An absolute tonic' Heat
‘If you read one novel, make it Bombshell!’ Vanessa Feltz
'I loved the whole book . . . couldn't put it down!' 5 STAR reader review
'Not what I expected!' 5 STAR reader review
'An inspiring read' Woman's Own
Her worst nightmare might just be the making of her . . .
Family has always meant everything to Madison. Married to the nation’s heartthrob, TV handyman Rich, with two beautiful children, she’s always put their needs first. And she’s never regretted a second, even if her own career has taken a backseat.
Then, out of the blue, Rich drops a bombshell. He needs some space and he’s moving out.
Overwhelmed by this revelation, Madison turns to her tight-knit group of friends for help. But when their support isn’t enough, Madison resolves to find out what’s really going on. Even if it means turning detective on her own husband.
And with her own interior-design career about to take off (once her manager stops squashing her bold ideas for his terrible ones, and provided she doesn’t get distracted by the new guy in the office), Madison’s about to rediscover her own worth.
She’s a bombshell, after all…
PRAISE FOR ALISON
'Alison Hammond is magnetic' Closer
'[A] national treasure' Metro
'An absolute tonic' Heat
298 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 7, 2024
133 people are currently reading
733 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews
April 15, 2025
Library Blind-Pick 📚
It’s been a while since I have done one of these random library book picks, so when I accidentally came across this book written by Alison Hammond I just HAD to pick it up! Before I go any further with my review, I will say that I ADORE this woman. She is a national treasure. Her bubbly personality and zest for life is so infectious. She is a pure power woman 🫶🏼
To be honest, before I started reading this I actually thought it was a non-fiction book about Alison, herself. I was wrong. Along with all of her other amazing achievements, she has gone and written an inspiring fictional story for us to enjoy ☺️
✨ “What you need to do is just…let go. Trust yourself.” ✨
I absolutely flew through this book; I just couldn’t seem to put it down! Additionally, it was so easy to read and very intriguing from start to finish. Alison jumped right into the heat of the story quite quickly which instantly captivated me.
Madison’s worst nightmare might just be the making of her... Family has always meant everything to Madison. Married with two beautiful children. She has always put their needs first. All is well until Rich ‘needs space’. After being totally overwhelmed, and desperate for answers, Madison resolves to find out what's really going on. She turns detective on her own husband. Throughout the course of this highly entertaining and enjoyable read Madison discovers her own worth….She's a bombshell learning to be the lead in her own story💥
“You’ll never discover anything new, if you’re not willing to do something different.” 🙌🏼
I loved this book. It is fairly short and straightforward to follow but highly entertaining, all the same. I was instantly taken in by Alison’s writing style and quickly developed a connection to Madison’s family; shout out to Grampa - he was the biggest softy 🥰 This was a really feel good read and I would definitely recommend it if you’re looking to get out of a slump, or after a heavy read!
💖 “Sometimes in life, what you say no to is as important as what you say yes to.” 💖
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
It’s been a while since I have done one of these random library book picks, so when I accidentally came across this book written by Alison Hammond I just HAD to pick it up! Before I go any further with my review, I will say that I ADORE this woman. She is a national treasure. Her bubbly personality and zest for life is so infectious. She is a pure power woman 🫶🏼
To be honest, before I started reading this I actually thought it was a non-fiction book about Alison, herself. I was wrong. Along with all of her other amazing achievements, she has gone and written an inspiring fictional story for us to enjoy ☺️
✨ “What you need to do is just…let go. Trust yourself.” ✨
I absolutely flew through this book; I just couldn’t seem to put it down! Additionally, it was so easy to read and very intriguing from start to finish. Alison jumped right into the heat of the story quite quickly which instantly captivated me.
Madison’s worst nightmare might just be the making of her... Family has always meant everything to Madison. Married with two beautiful children. She has always put their needs first. All is well until Rich ‘needs space’. After being totally overwhelmed, and desperate for answers, Madison resolves to find out what's really going on. She turns detective on her own husband. Throughout the course of this highly entertaining and enjoyable read Madison discovers her own worth….She's a bombshell learning to be the lead in her own story💥
“You’ll never discover anything new, if you’re not willing to do something different.” 🙌🏼
I loved this book. It is fairly short and straightforward to follow but highly entertaining, all the same. I was instantly taken in by Alison’s writing style and quickly developed a connection to Madison’s family; shout out to Grampa - he was the biggest softy 🥰 This was a really feel good read and I would definitely recommend it if you’re looking to get out of a slump, or after a heavy read!
💖 “Sometimes in life, what you say no to is as important as what you say yes to.” 💖
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
December 5, 2024
I do love Alison Hammond. She is warm and witty so I knew her book would be the same. Her characters are extremely true to life, and I suspect they are based on people that she knows. It’s a fun book about friendships, family, heartbreak, and heart-make.
Madison thinks she has the perfect life. A TV heartthrob, handsome husband, 2 gorgeous children, a bunch of close-knit friends and a wonderful house – and as an interior designer it is just as she wants it. The only thing that isn’t perfect is a job that she hates. When her husband suddenly tells her that he needs some space, and moves out to stay with a cousin, Madison’s world is turned upside down. Can Madison discover her own worth, and change her life for the better or will she fold under the pressure? Sometimes new friends can come into your life at the right time and improve your life for the better.
I really enjoyed this book. It was a quick read, and I polished off in just over a day. It’s warm, witty and bubbly - just like Alison herself.
Madison thinks she has the perfect life. A TV heartthrob, handsome husband, 2 gorgeous children, a bunch of close-knit friends and a wonderful house – and as an interior designer it is just as she wants it. The only thing that isn’t perfect is a job that she hates. When her husband suddenly tells her that he needs some space, and moves out to stay with a cousin, Madison’s world is turned upside down. Can Madison discover her own worth, and change her life for the better or will she fold under the pressure? Sometimes new friends can come into your life at the right time and improve your life for the better.
I really enjoyed this book. It was a quick read, and I polished off in just over a day. It’s warm, witty and bubbly - just like Alison herself.
August 19, 2025
Obviously was very predictable but was a great, easy listen. I was shouting in the car at it so that's a good sign!
January 23, 2025
Reading ‘Bombshell’ evoked such intense emotions in me. I didn’t just feel for Madison—I actually felt personally wronged by everything that unfolded. The dynamic between Madison and Savine was truly beautiful to witness; their blossoming friendship felt so wholesome, it almost made me a little jealous. I have to give huge credit to Alison Hammond for this book. It honestly feels like she poured so much of her own emotions onto the page, and it’s so raw and powerful—this book really radiates feeling. Thank you to Random House UK for giving me the opportunity to read this for no charge, I am so grateful!
February 15, 2025
Easy reading story of a crisis in a long standing marriage and the impact of poor communication between partners. The main character rediscovers herself in the process.
Good fleshed out main character. The issue in the marriage is easy to spot early on. Other characters are not so rounded and you don't get a sense of why the event happened.
Not my normal type of book as it was a Christmas present and it's too lightweight for me but it's an easy read and I enjoyed it
Good fleshed out main character. The issue in the marriage is easy to spot early on. Other characters are not so rounded and you don't get a sense of why the event happened.
Not my normal type of book as it was a Christmas present and it's too lightweight for me but it's an easy read and I enjoyed it
July 29, 2025
Loved this book! Absolutely flew through reading it, such an easy fun read
February 16, 2025
“He’d called her ‘babe’! Like nothing had changed!”
A great palette cleanser, I read this after being broken by Yellow Wife and it was nice and light.
Madison seemingly has a perfect life, marriage, family. Until one day her TV heartthrob husband Rich says he’s leaving the family home for a bit because he needs some space.
We follow Madison as she questions the relationship and why Rich has left. From the get go tbh Rich was a big no, he just seemed so selfish and unlikeable. I really found myself rooting for Madison to find happiness without him. Madison turns detective to find out what has happened and we uncover some secrets along the way. I enjoyed how she found herself again and her forgotten passions along the way.
Madison lowkey had the most unsupportive friend group like no one was really willing to go detective on her husband with her; where was the ride or die friends?! I’m glad she had a friend in someone she meets along the way.
I liked the way the book touched upon grief in relation to Madison losing her mother. Overall, for me this booked missed the mark slightly, I don’t know if I went in thinking it would be a romance? But it’s not that. And it started to feel dragged out, it definitely could’ve been shorter, a lot was missing/some characters and events weren’t fleshed out.
I did like how it was a nice, easy light read.
Themes: self love, family, friendship, grief.
A great palette cleanser, I read this after being broken by Yellow Wife and it was nice and light.
Madison seemingly has a perfect life, marriage, family. Until one day her TV heartthrob husband Rich says he’s leaving the family home for a bit because he needs some space.
We follow Madison as she questions the relationship and why Rich has left. From the get go tbh Rich was a big no, he just seemed so selfish and unlikeable. I really found myself rooting for Madison to find happiness without him. Madison turns detective to find out what has happened and we uncover some secrets along the way. I enjoyed how she found herself again and her forgotten passions along the way.
Madison lowkey had the most unsupportive friend group like no one was really willing to go detective on her husband with her; where was the ride or die friends?! I’m glad she had a friend in someone she meets along the way.
I liked the way the book touched upon grief in relation to Madison losing her mother. Overall, for me this booked missed the mark slightly, I don’t know if I went in thinking it would be a romance? But it’s not that. And it started to feel dragged out, it definitely could’ve been shorter, a lot was missing/some characters and events weren’t fleshed out.
I did like how it was a nice, easy light read.
Themes: self love, family, friendship, grief.
July 31, 2025
don’t read this 3 days before getting married btw
Read
January 17, 2025Thank you to NetGalley and Random House UK for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Family has always meant everything to Madison. Married to the nation’s heartthrob, TV handyman Rich, with two beautiful children, she’s always put their needs first. And she’s never regretted a second, even if her own career has taken a backseat. Then, out of the blue, Rich drops a bombshell. He needs some space and he’s moving out. Overwhelmed by this revelation, Madison turns to her tight-knit group of friends for help. But when their support isn’t enough, Madison resolves to find out what’s really going on. Even if it means turning detective on her own husband. And with her own interior-design career about to take off (once her manager stops squashing her bold ideas for his terrible ones, and provided she doesn’t get distracted by the new guy in the office), Madison’s about to rediscover her own worth. She’s a bombshell, after all…
Unfortunately, this book is a DNF for me. I pushed on but had to give up at 23%. It felt like the book was not going anywhere at all and was incredibly bland. There were no levels of complexity to the storyline or to the characters which could hook my attention. I am a big fan of Alison Hammond and thought this would be a great book to read. But I couldn’t see any Alison in this. None of her charm, or her humour. It just all fell flat. Not to mention that essentially a quarter of the way through the book, all we had seen was the beginnings of a break up. That’s it. Very little about Madison’s job, let alone it taking off as suggested in the blurb, and repetitive actions with the children. I really hoped for more.
Overall, Bombshell is a book I was very excited to read but felt like a let down.
Thank you again to NetGalley and Random House UK for a copy of this book.
Family has always meant everything to Madison. Married to the nation’s heartthrob, TV handyman Rich, with two beautiful children, she’s always put their needs first. And she’s never regretted a second, even if her own career has taken a backseat. Then, out of the blue, Rich drops a bombshell. He needs some space and he’s moving out. Overwhelmed by this revelation, Madison turns to her tight-knit group of friends for help. But when their support isn’t enough, Madison resolves to find out what’s really going on. Even if it means turning detective on her own husband. And with her own interior-design career about to take off (once her manager stops squashing her bold ideas for his terrible ones, and provided she doesn’t get distracted by the new guy in the office), Madison’s about to rediscover her own worth. She’s a bombshell, after all…
Unfortunately, this book is a DNF for me. I pushed on but had to give up at 23%. It felt like the book was not going anywhere at all and was incredibly bland. There were no levels of complexity to the storyline or to the characters which could hook my attention. I am a big fan of Alison Hammond and thought this would be a great book to read. But I couldn’t see any Alison in this. None of her charm, or her humour. It just all fell flat. Not to mention that essentially a quarter of the way through the book, all we had seen was the beginnings of a break up. That’s it. Very little about Madison’s job, let alone it taking off as suggested in the blurb, and repetitive actions with the children. I really hoped for more.
Overall, Bombshell is a book I was very excited to read but felt like a let down.
Thank you again to NetGalley and Random House UK for a copy of this book.
January 13, 2025
This had the potential to be so good - strong female lead character. But the whole thing was predictable and made the main character seem weak and a bit useless. Husband cheats with best friend, wife doesn’t find out until the end blah blah. The whole thing was cliche. 2 stars because I have read worse.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 6, 2024
I might be biased as I love Alison Hammond, but I loved this book. It was exactly what I wanted - festive, warm, and funny. Being described as a romcom, I was expecting the central relationship to be a romantic one, but actually the novel is all about the main character, Madison, falling in love with herself.
Madison's life is turned upside down when her TV star husband abruptly leaves her and their two children just before Christmas. He had so many red flags, but I found Madison so relatable in how she initially reacts by trying to fix everything and somehow feeling responsible for any issues in their marriage. Madison is such a likeable character and you can't help but root for her. Luckily after the initial shock has worn off, Madison starts to consider what she truly wants from life and prioritising her own dreams, rather than her husband's. By the end of the novel she has found new female friendships and a new lease on life. It is truly an empowering novel.
The writing was warm and witty - just like Alison. It was a nice, easy read and the pace really picked up once Madison starts to investigate what her husband was really up to. It became a real page turner by this point. The characters were also really well written and I wanted to be part of Madison's friendship circle (well, mostly!). Overall a lovely festive book!
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House UK for a copy of this book.
Madison's life is turned upside down when her TV star husband abruptly leaves her and their two children just before Christmas. He had so many red flags, but I found Madison so relatable in how she initially reacts by trying to fix everything and somehow feeling responsible for any issues in their marriage. Madison is such a likeable character and you can't help but root for her. Luckily after the initial shock has worn off, Madison starts to consider what she truly wants from life and prioritising her own dreams, rather than her husband's. By the end of the novel she has found new female friendships and a new lease on life. It is truly an empowering novel.
The writing was warm and witty - just like Alison. It was a nice, easy read and the pace really picked up once Madison starts to investigate what her husband was really up to. It became a real page turner by this point. The characters were also really well written and I wanted to be part of Madison's friendship circle (well, mostly!). Overall a lovely festive book!
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House UK for a copy of this book.
May 13, 2025
Our main character Madison has a good life. Ok she hates her job but her homelife is great. She is happily married to Rich who just so happens to be the nations heartthrob as a handyman on tv and she’s been blessed with two amazing children.
So far so good but then Rich drops a bombshell that he needs space and is moving out. Madison is gobsmacked, she thought they were happy and with Rich refusing to tell her what’s wrong, she is at a loss.
So she starts searching and snooping with the help of Savine who she met in a sauna! Savine has been through this so helps Madison with ways to cope and be a supportive new friend.
Although this book was dealing with serious subjects it still had a sprinkling of humour through it. This one is set at Christmas time although you would never guess by the cover. Madison is a bombshell and she gets the happy ending she deserves! If you are looking for a quick, light, fun read then I recommend this.
So far so good but then Rich drops a bombshell that he needs space and is moving out. Madison is gobsmacked, she thought they were happy and with Rich refusing to tell her what’s wrong, she is at a loss.
So she starts searching and snooping with the help of Savine who she met in a sauna! Savine has been through this so helps Madison with ways to cope and be a supportive new friend.
Although this book was dealing with serious subjects it still had a sprinkling of humour through it. This one is set at Christmas time although you would never guess by the cover. Madison is a bombshell and she gets the happy ending she deserves! If you are looking for a quick, light, fun read then I recommend this.
January 7, 2025
I absolutely raced through this book, I was so invested! It’s one of those where 100 pages feel like nothing and I was turning pages (/ tapping ebook screen) as fast as I could. But equally, didn’t want to read it too fast as I was enjoying it.
I needed to know what was happening! What was Madison’s husband up to? Why had he suddenly become so distant and would Madison find her spark?
The writing was great, the story itself was super enthralling and it was easy to immerse into. It had elements to keep you interested and as a fan of Alison Hammond, this book was an easy win. Loved it!
Thank you to the author and publisher for this book on NetGalley in return for my honest thoughts and review.
I needed to know what was happening! What was Madison’s husband up to? Why had he suddenly become so distant and would Madison find her spark?
The writing was great, the story itself was super enthralling and it was easy to immerse into. It had elements to keep you interested and as a fan of Alison Hammond, this book was an easy win. Loved it!
Thank you to the author and publisher for this book on NetGalley in return for my honest thoughts and review.
December 6, 2024
Really enjoyed this book from Alison Hammond.
Madison’s husband Rich suddenly moves out to have ‘space’ and leave Madison with their two young children. Madison is completely at a loss as to why he needs space but starts to suspect he is having an affair. As she tries to find out the truth she also starts to question if she actually wants him back or not.
The main character, Madison is really relatable, and her actions are totally believable. You end up really routing for her to find her own happiness and find yourself hating her husband, Rich!
Well written and a compelling read which is quick to read.
I would love a sequel to catch up with Madison a few years down the line!
Thanks to netgalley and Transworld digital for the copy.
Madison’s husband Rich suddenly moves out to have ‘space’ and leave Madison with their two young children. Madison is completely at a loss as to why he needs space but starts to suspect he is having an affair. As she tries to find out the truth she also starts to question if she actually wants him back or not.
The main character, Madison is really relatable, and her actions are totally believable. You end up really routing for her to find her own happiness and find yourself hating her husband, Rich!
Well written and a compelling read which is quick to read.
I would love a sequel to catch up with Madison a few years down the line!
Thanks to netgalley and Transworld digital for the copy.
February 8, 2025
I reserved this at my local library thinking it was an autobiography by Alison so I must admit I was a little disappointed when I released it was a novel as I was looking forward to delving back into her Big Brother experience and reading about her rise to stardom.
I was then even more confused when I realised this was co written by Lisa Bent so I was suspicious by how much was actually written by her.
In the end I stopped over thinking it and just dived in, and ended up enjoying it.
Having looking through Alison’s social media I can see she’s been very up front about Lisa’s involvement and has made sure Lisa has been recognised and is able to take credit for the book as much as she can.
All in all a quick satisfying read.
I was then even more confused when I realised this was co written by Lisa Bent so I was suspicious by how much was actually written by her.
In the end I stopped over thinking it and just dived in, and ended up enjoying it.
Having looking through Alison’s social media I can see she’s been very up front about Lisa’s involvement and has made sure Lisa has been recognised and is able to take credit for the book as much as she can.
All in all a quick satisfying read.
December 6, 2024
Well I read this In one sitting it’s a lovely read which has the warmth and fun you get from seeing Alison on tv. I was really routing for Madison in this story and was really pleased with the ending. I can’t say more than that without ruining the story but in this book after years of marriage and two kids Madisons world is turned upside down when her husband Richard walks out and says he needs time to think. As she gets no answers from him about what is happening her whole world is falling apart and she has to reevaluate everything she thought she wanted from life. A great novel with a strong powerful woman as the lead. Don’t miss this one!
December 9, 2024
Some moments of humour and some great twists in it - that I wasn't expecting.
The storyline was a little predictable in places, but loved the friendship relationships and the empathy I felt with the main character- even if at times I felt she needed a rocket up her bum to say or do something (which she would eventually do).
The storyline was a little predictable in places, but loved the friendship relationships and the empathy I felt with the main character- even if at times I felt she needed a rocket up her bum to say or do something (which she would eventually do).
Read
January 7, 2025I follow Alison Hammond since I've seen her at Bake Off. She seems like a genuinely good, positive, strong, upbeat person, the kind you want to befriend and have around, so naturally I wanted to read her debut novel. A cosy, optimistic story about reevaluating major life decisions and opening to change. Cute, relaxing beach read, but I honestly think this isn't yet full force Alison.
February 10, 2025
I will actually fight the dude with my own two hands man FUCK HIM !!!
htf did she put up with that fucker for ten years I could barley do 300 pages
Fuck jess to the massive cunt .
Love the girl she met in sawner tho
Love madison !!!
htf did she put up with that fucker for ten years I could barley do 300 pages
Fuck jess to the massive cunt .
Love the girl she met in sawner tho
Love madison !!!
February 21, 2025
A slow start but actually enjoyed this one, especially as it all wrapped up near the end. The husband is a dick tho 😂
June 26, 2025
great easy read, lovely ending
October 11, 2025
3.5 rounded to 4.
November 12, 2025
This was an easy, quick read but the writing felt basic and all the characters were insufferable.
September 5, 2025
Probably like a 2.5. It was an easy read. Whoever the co writer was as well as Alison & whoever edited this in penguin really needed to step up a bit more as some of those sentences were sooooo bad!!! But it was a quick easy one regardless :)
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June 14, 2025Before I launch into my review, I would like to say a huge thank you to Alison Hammond, Random House UK, Transworld Publishers, and Netgalley for what was originally provided as a Wishlist Granted Digital Reader Copy of this title. For anyone with their eye on this title, here is my personal review of the book to help you decide whether you are interested or not. All opinions offered are my own.
I didn’t think twice about reading this offering from Alison Hammond. I have loved this woman’s humor and big personality since her Big Brother Debut and the years have only seen her grow in sass, comedy, and unique style since. I was certain that this book would represent her well and as debut novels go, it does. However, it is not without its flaws.
Bombshell tells the story of Madison, a stay-at-home mum, married to celebrity handyman, Rich. She thought they were happy in their marriage, with their two school age kids, and parents close by. It, therefore, comes as a slap in the face when Rich announces in the run up to Christmas that he is leaving. Turning to her group of friends, old and new, Madison seeks support and answers. When opinions are split, she decides to seek the answers for herself with some amateur sleuthing. What will she find? And will it be enough to save her marriage?
The book is marketed as a romcom and this is initially what drew me in. However, I fear I picked this book up at the wrong time for me to really appreciate it. Having just got married myself, the breakdown of a marriage was not high on my list of topics to explore. The relationship depicted in this book had its many issues, secrets and betrayals that are alien to my current situation. I also felt that it was lacking in the romance and happiness that is expected of a romcom.
As the characters go, I did not really like any of them. That’s not to say they were not lovely, only that I was not invested in them or form any emotional connection. Sabine was great fun and probably provided a great voice of reason and insight, but the remainder of the characters were weak and underdeveloped. Left to her own devices, Madison set about exploring options for the future and organizing the children because Rich was not to be dependent on, and yet she was so lacking in confidence and will. I found myself wanting to shake her and tell her to pull herself together instead of pining over someone who was being avoidant and cold, particularly as he was not shy in expressing his feelings when questioned.
The overall story was very cliché and thus predictable. The obvious outcome was set up from the beginning and worked towards achieving the ending we got to reach. I would have liked to have been more surprised. Instead, I felt like I was reading a juvenile book that had limited and cheesy laughs, no real need to pay attention to solve a mystery, and a typical ending to be expected by immature readers.
My criticism sounds harsh, but it is not intended to be. I imagine the audience for this book will be young women from their mid-teens and above. It is an extremely quick and easy book to get into and complete that it makes the ideal beach read or guilty pleasure when you need a little escape. Overall, the read was cozy. However, I felt the book was filled with lots of filler information. For example, it could have happened at any time of year, although it was Christmas, the festival itself did not aid the plot, nor did many of the friends or family members. It meant the book was just ‘nice’ rather than something informative. I also felt that the bombshell needed to go harder. Although Madison attempted to make subtle changes, it did not feel like she was committing to the cause
Even though the book elicited several chuckles, I felt it was an average read that remained too sedate for me. I was dissatisfied with the ending and felt there was more story to go. The book was called Bombshell so I would have liked more bombshell, unapologetic energy. Consequently, the book scores 3 out if 5 stars from me. But like I said, this book had a young vibe to it and is probably suited to a younger, less experienced reader than I.
I didn’t think twice about reading this offering from Alison Hammond. I have loved this woman’s humor and big personality since her Big Brother Debut and the years have only seen her grow in sass, comedy, and unique style since. I was certain that this book would represent her well and as debut novels go, it does. However, it is not without its flaws.
Bombshell tells the story of Madison, a stay-at-home mum, married to celebrity handyman, Rich. She thought they were happy in their marriage, with their two school age kids, and parents close by. It, therefore, comes as a slap in the face when Rich announces in the run up to Christmas that he is leaving. Turning to her group of friends, old and new, Madison seeks support and answers. When opinions are split, she decides to seek the answers for herself with some amateur sleuthing. What will she find? And will it be enough to save her marriage?
The book is marketed as a romcom and this is initially what drew me in. However, I fear I picked this book up at the wrong time for me to really appreciate it. Having just got married myself, the breakdown of a marriage was not high on my list of topics to explore. The relationship depicted in this book had its many issues, secrets and betrayals that are alien to my current situation. I also felt that it was lacking in the romance and happiness that is expected of a romcom.
As the characters go, I did not really like any of them. That’s not to say they were not lovely, only that I was not invested in them or form any emotional connection. Sabine was great fun and probably provided a great voice of reason and insight, but the remainder of the characters were weak and underdeveloped. Left to her own devices, Madison set about exploring options for the future and organizing the children because Rich was not to be dependent on, and yet she was so lacking in confidence and will. I found myself wanting to shake her and tell her to pull herself together instead of pining over someone who was being avoidant and cold, particularly as he was not shy in expressing his feelings when questioned.
The overall story was very cliché and thus predictable. The obvious outcome was set up from the beginning and worked towards achieving the ending we got to reach. I would have liked to have been more surprised. Instead, I felt like I was reading a juvenile book that had limited and cheesy laughs, no real need to pay attention to solve a mystery, and a typical ending to be expected by immature readers.
My criticism sounds harsh, but it is not intended to be. I imagine the audience for this book will be young women from their mid-teens and above. It is an extremely quick and easy book to get into and complete that it makes the ideal beach read or guilty pleasure when you need a little escape. Overall, the read was cozy. However, I felt the book was filled with lots of filler information. For example, it could have happened at any time of year, although it was Christmas, the festival itself did not aid the plot, nor did many of the friends or family members. It meant the book was just ‘nice’ rather than something informative. I also felt that the bombshell needed to go harder. Although Madison attempted to make subtle changes, it did not feel like she was committing to the cause
Even though the book elicited several chuckles, I felt it was an average read that remained too sedate for me. I was dissatisfied with the ending and felt there was more story to go. The book was called Bombshell so I would have liked more bombshell, unapologetic energy. Consequently, the book scores 3 out if 5 stars from me. But like I said, this book had a young vibe to it and is probably suited to a younger, less experienced reader than I.
April 14, 2025
Madison is a woman who’s pretty happy with her lot. While there are some flies in the ointment; the loss of her beloved mother a few years before the story starts, and a job she plods along at that she could happily walk away from at any second, she knows she’s one of the lucky ones. Not only does she have a great group of long-term friends with whom she shares everything, and meets up with regularly, she has two beautiful children and a widowed father who adores and supports her in all she does. Not only that, but her sexy husband Rich has accidentally become a heart-throb on a popular DIY show and is now being touted for greater things – including his own show. This is not only exciting for them as a family, but having worked as a designer in TV production before she took time out to have their babies, this could also herald a return to the career she has put on hold to bring up their family.
However, out of the blue, Rich starts acting weird and announces that he needs to time to sort his head out – and with that he’s left, gone to stay with his cousin Marvin, leaving Madison juggling her job, the kids, her ageing father, and he pretty much goes dark. Madison is equally devastated and furious, and after a chance meeting with Savine, a powerhouse of a woman who was left in a similar situation with her own husband, she decides to take matters into her own hands and find out exactly what is going on. Is Rich having an affair? A mid-life crisis? A break-down? She also meets a new colleague, Nathan, who takes a great interest in her designing talents and makes her remember why she used to love working in the field so much – Nathan encourages her to branch out and see if there may be a Madison-shaped gap in the design industry. Throughout the rest of the book we watch Madison crumble, become almost obsessed with the situation (understandably) and slowly realise her own worth and what she really wants, and needs from life. The only criticism that I would have is that Madison is just a bit too nice and so doesn’t stand up to people, especially Rich – but I also think that allows us to see how she grows in confidence and self-awareness as the book progresses.
I’m a big fan of Alison Hammond, and although I know this was co-written with Lisa Bent, I feel that this book echos Alison’s values – family, loyalty, love, respect and having the courage to stand in your own power. Although this novel was promoted as a Christmas read, I read it in April and it didn’t affect the story at all except that the events taking place led up to Christmas, which as we all know adds a huge amount of pressure to resolving any conflict before the ‘big day’. I thoroughly recommend this – it’s a quick, easy read that I raced through in one day during the recent sunny spell and enjoyed every minute of it!
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing an early copy of this book - this is my honest review.
However, out of the blue, Rich starts acting weird and announces that he needs to time to sort his head out – and with that he’s left, gone to stay with his cousin Marvin, leaving Madison juggling her job, the kids, her ageing father, and he pretty much goes dark. Madison is equally devastated and furious, and after a chance meeting with Savine, a powerhouse of a woman who was left in a similar situation with her own husband, she decides to take matters into her own hands and find out exactly what is going on. Is Rich having an affair? A mid-life crisis? A break-down? She also meets a new colleague, Nathan, who takes a great interest in her designing talents and makes her remember why she used to love working in the field so much – Nathan encourages her to branch out and see if there may be a Madison-shaped gap in the design industry. Throughout the rest of the book we watch Madison crumble, become almost obsessed with the situation (understandably) and slowly realise her own worth and what she really wants, and needs from life. The only criticism that I would have is that Madison is just a bit too nice and so doesn’t stand up to people, especially Rich – but I also think that allows us to see how she grows in confidence and self-awareness as the book progresses.
I’m a big fan of Alison Hammond, and although I know this was co-written with Lisa Bent, I feel that this book echos Alison’s values – family, loyalty, love, respect and having the courage to stand in your own power. Although this novel was promoted as a Christmas read, I read it in April and it didn’t affect the story at all except that the events taking place led up to Christmas, which as we all know adds a huge amount of pressure to resolving any conflict before the ‘big day’. I thoroughly recommend this – it’s a quick, easy read that I raced through in one day during the recent sunny spell and enjoyed every minute of it!
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing an early copy of this book - this is my honest review.
November 25, 2024
I feel indifferent about this book. I listened to this on audible - firstly, I have to say I was disappointed that Alison didn't read the book. Secondly, I felt that the story started slow - then got interesting and then kind of fell flat at the reveal. The part about her and rich breaking up and deciding its over - it wasn't believable. It seemed to be such an anti climax. I feel like there was so much that could have been explored, but it was cut short.
I'm not sure how this book can be regarded as funny...?
I'm not sure how this book can be regarded as funny...?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 11, 2025
Audiobook review
Would should have been chucked in the bin
Happy Couple with two perfect kids, gorgeous home, fabulous careers. he kisses her bff, buggers off to his cousin’s house, joins tinder, etc etc. she finds a new bff who empowers her to start her own business and dump her hubby
Tale as old as time has been done better by almost everyone.
Not funny, not heartwarming. Avoid
Would should have been chucked in the bin
Happy Couple with two perfect kids, gorgeous home, fabulous careers. he kisses her bff, buggers off to his cousin’s house, joins tinder, etc etc. she finds a new bff who empowers her to start her own business and dump her hubby
Tale as old as time has been done better by almost everyone.
Not funny, not heartwarming. Avoid
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 26, 2025
Madison, as a married Mum of 2 has always put her needs last. When her TV star heart-throb husband drops a bombshell that he ‘needs space’ and moves out, Madison is shocked and understandably devastated but she has to carry on, after all, someone has to look after the kids. But slowly she begins to realise she can change things in her life too, and one of those things is to find out exactly what is happening with her husband...
The Pro's:
1) The Bombshell - Madison’s perfect life is blown apart and her reaction to it is believable - unsure what’s for the best etc
2) Part of the joy of the book is (most) of her friends
3) It has the Christmassy vibes as it’s set around then
4) It’s very relatable especially if you are a woman and Mum
5) I listened to it on audio and it’s an easy listening romp
The Con's:
1) The book was fine, no major gripes about it but just not ones of my favourites. I liked it, I didn’t love it.
2) It is predictable in certains parts
The Quotes:
1) ‘And while Marilyn would probably have scribbled it in lipstick on a napkin,’ said Madison, I’m going to put it in your phone.’
She tapped in her number, double-checking that it was correct, and saved her contact details as Madison Monroe.
Ten years later, and married, she was still saved in Rich’s phone as Madison Monroe.
2) If in doubt, promise sugar, and ideally some sense of sibling rivalry. That was parenting 101.
The Summary:
Bombshell is about a marriage breaking down, seemingly from out of the blue. There are obviously some parts that aren’t particularly happy but overall you do get a positive heart-warming feeling whilst reading it. The addition of Madison’s friends were some much needed light relief in the book. I was a fan of when Madison starts a bit of detective work into what her husband is up to and also when she decides maybe now it’s her time to shine. I did find the story a bit too predictable though.
I rated the book 3.25 🌟 (rounded down to 3).
The Pro's:
1) The Bombshell - Madison’s perfect life is blown apart and her reaction to it is believable - unsure what’s for the best etc
2) Part of the joy of the book is (most) of her friends
3) It has the Christmassy vibes as it’s set around then
4) It’s very relatable especially if you are a woman and Mum
5) I listened to it on audio and it’s an easy listening romp
The Con's:
1) The book was fine, no major gripes about it but just not ones of my favourites. I liked it, I didn’t love it.
2) It is predictable in certains parts
The Quotes:
1) ‘And while Marilyn would probably have scribbled it in lipstick on a napkin,’ said Madison, I’m going to put it in your phone.’
She tapped in her number, double-checking that it was correct, and saved her contact details as Madison Monroe.
Ten years later, and married, she was still saved in Rich’s phone as Madison Monroe.
2) If in doubt, promise sugar, and ideally some sense of sibling rivalry. That was parenting 101.
The Summary:
Bombshell is about a marriage breaking down, seemingly from out of the blue. There are obviously some parts that aren’t particularly happy but overall you do get a positive heart-warming feeling whilst reading it. The addition of Madison’s friends were some much needed light relief in the book. I was a fan of when Madison starts a bit of detective work into what her husband is up to and also when she decides maybe now it’s her time to shine. I did find the story a bit too predictable though.
I rated the book 3.25 🌟 (rounded down to 3).
December 12, 2024
Now, I might be biased as I adore Alison Hammond, but I absolutely loved this book!
Whilst described as a romcom, it's not the big love story that you'd be expecting, but it's so much more. It's a story of love, strength, family, unexpected friendship, and resilience.
Mansion is happily married mother of two. She's put her career on hold and taken a back seat to bring up her children and support her husband in hid pursuit of fame on tv. While his 'fans' may see him as a bit of a heartthrob, Madison just sees him as Rich,her husband, and doting Dad to their children.
So, when after a family day out, Rich announces he 'needs some space', Madison is dumbfounded, having no idea why and where this sudden announcement has come from.
Her best friend Jess believes it will all be fine. She just has to weather the storm, so Madison keeps on going, being a mum, getting through each day but still without any answers.
Suspecting an affair, she enlists the help of her new friend and confident Sevine (I LOVE HER). Not only does she gain insight, but along the way, she gains confidence and strength and realises just how much she has lost herself over the years.
Is Rich cheating? Does she have the strength to fight? Will her friendships last the course?
I loved the characterisation throughout the whole book. Not only were the characters well executed and relatable, but they also felt real, which is such a positive, in my opinion. The story had me truly routing for Madison, wanting her to find her own happiness in her own way.
A heartwarming read that I would LOVE a sequel to, this would make a great series!
Thanks to Netgalley and Random House UK, Transworld Publishers for the ARC.
Whilst described as a romcom, it's not the big love story that you'd be expecting, but it's so much more. It's a story of love, strength, family, unexpected friendship, and resilience.
Mansion is happily married mother of two. She's put her career on hold and taken a back seat to bring up her children and support her husband in hid pursuit of fame on tv. While his 'fans' may see him as a bit of a heartthrob, Madison just sees him as Rich,her husband, and doting Dad to their children.
So, when after a family day out, Rich announces he 'needs some space', Madison is dumbfounded, having no idea why and where this sudden announcement has come from.
Her best friend Jess believes it will all be fine. She just has to weather the storm, so Madison keeps on going, being a mum, getting through each day but still without any answers.
Suspecting an affair, she enlists the help of her new friend and confident Sevine (I LOVE HER). Not only does she gain insight, but along the way, she gains confidence and strength and realises just how much she has lost herself over the years.
Is Rich cheating? Does she have the strength to fight? Will her friendships last the course?
I loved the characterisation throughout the whole book. Not only were the characters well executed and relatable, but they also felt real, which is such a positive, in my opinion. The story had me truly routing for Madison, wanting her to find her own happiness in her own way.
A heartwarming read that I would LOVE a sequel to, this would make a great series!
Thanks to Netgalley and Random House UK, Transworld Publishers for the ARC.
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