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Swept Away
Two strangers find themselves stranded at sea together in this epic new love story by bestselling author Beth O’Leary.
What if you were lost at sea…with your one-night stand?
Zeke and Lexi thought it would just be a night of fun. They had no intentions of seeing each other again. Zeke is only in town for the weekend to buy back his late father’s houseboat. Lexi has no time for dating when she needs to help take care of her best friend's daughter.
Going back home with a stranger seems like a perfect escape from their problems. But a miscommunication in the dark, foggy night means no one tied the houseboat to the dock. The next morning, Zeke and Lexi realize all they can see is miles and miles of water.
With just a few provisions on the idle boat, Zeke and Lexi must figure out how to get back home. But aside from their survival, they’re facing another challenge. Because when you’re stuck together for days on end, it gives you a lot of time to get to know someone—and to fall in love with them.
What if you were lost at sea…with your one-night stand?
Zeke and Lexi thought it would just be a night of fun. They had no intentions of seeing each other again. Zeke is only in town for the weekend to buy back his late father’s houseboat. Lexi has no time for dating when she needs to help take care of her best friend's daughter.
Going back home with a stranger seems like a perfect escape from their problems. But a miscommunication in the dark, foggy night means no one tied the houseboat to the dock. The next morning, Zeke and Lexi realize all they can see is miles and miles of water.
With just a few provisions on the idle boat, Zeke and Lexi must figure out how to get back home. But aside from their survival, they’re facing another challenge. Because when you’re stuck together for days on end, it gives you a lot of time to get to know someone—and to fall in love with them.
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First published April 1, 2025
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About the author
Beth O'Leary
20 books16.5k followersBeth studied English at university before going into children’s publishing. She lives as close to the countryside as she can get while still being within reach of London, and wrote her first novel, The Flatshare, on her train journey to and from work.
You’ll usually find her curled up with a book, a cup of tea, and several woolly jumpers (whatever the weather).
You’ll usually find her curled up with a book, a cup of tea, and several woolly jumpers (whatever the weather).
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September 2, 2024I’ll spend my life chasing the high of the flatshare
June 14, 2025
˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗ 2.5 𝕊𝕥𝕒𝕣𝕤 - ˏˋ★‿︵‧ ˚ ₊⊹
We follow our FMC Lexi and our MMC Zeke as they meet one night by chance at a bar, go back to his house boat for a one-night stand. In a miscommunication, the boat isn't tied to the dock and the two wake up drifted out and lost at sea.
I want to start by saying, this isn't really my type of romance... Sigh. I should know this by now, but please understand that these covers get me all the time lol.
I think that this would be a good beach read or pool side book. Meaning there's not a ton of substance, most of the events that happen wouldn't really happen. I mean, sure you could get lost at sea, but I don't think if you or I got lost at sea that we'd be concerned with 'saving a seagull' who is literally in their element at sea. Or say, getting drunk and dehydrated af when you have limited supplies and again... Are lost at sea!
I am all about drinking while in despair lol but this is a life-or-death type situation and it was treated like oh he he haha. I know, I know that this is a romcom of sorts and it's totally fictional but it just makes it hard to relate to the characters when they're in a situation and doing all kinds of things I would personally never do.
This is an age gap romance and I felt uncomfortable with how much Lexi would ogle him while going "but he's basically a child!" And his first sexual experience / "relationship" was with an adult while he was 16? And Lexi just ignores that this is...abuse? and thinks he's just into older women? Like maybe we should unpack that trauma instead of thinking it funny. He feels too young and childlike in comparison to her, and power difference of age made me uncomfortable.
I run into this often when authors do a reverse age gap, I find that the 'older woman' can sometimes come across kinda predatory depending on the way the character is written and I wouldn't say that Lexi necessarily came across as a predator to me in this book lol bc she didn't but she did give me a bit of the ick.
There's plenty of lines and scenes throughout the book that I know were intended to be laugh out loud moments, but I read the entire book with a straight face. Take from that what you will.
All in all, I do think if you're looking for something to read while at the beach for the afternoon and you don't want anything too serious (even though they're stranded at sea, it's not really high stakes vibes) it's worth a read.
Expected Release Date - 04/01/25
╰⪼ 💜Forced Proximity (to the MAX)
╰⪼ ☀️Grumpy ✘ Sunshine
╰⪼ ⚓Age Gap
╰⪼ 🌊Fish Out Of Water
╰⪼ 💖Lost at Sea
⋆✴︎˚｡⋆ Connect with me on Instagram ˗ˏˋ★‿︵‧ ˚ ₊⊹
Many thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for the advanced digital copy - all thoughts are my own.
We follow our FMC Lexi and our MMC Zeke as they meet one night by chance at a bar, go back to his house boat for a one-night stand. In a miscommunication, the boat isn't tied to the dock and the two wake up drifted out and lost at sea.
I want to start by saying, this isn't really my type of romance... Sigh. I should know this by now, but please understand that these covers get me all the time lol.
I think that this would be a good beach read or pool side book. Meaning there's not a ton of substance, most of the events that happen wouldn't really happen. I mean, sure you could get lost at sea, but I don't think if you or I got lost at sea that we'd be concerned with 'saving a seagull' who is literally in their element at sea. Or say, getting drunk and dehydrated af when you have limited supplies and again... Are lost at sea!
I am all about drinking while in despair lol but this is a life-or-death type situation and it was treated like oh he he haha. I know, I know that this is a romcom of sorts and it's totally fictional but it just makes it hard to relate to the characters when they're in a situation and doing all kinds of things I would personally never do.
This is an age gap romance and I felt uncomfortable with how much Lexi would ogle him while going "but he's basically a child!" And his first sexual experience / "relationship" was with an adult while he was 16? And Lexi just ignores that this is...abuse? and thinks he's just into older women? Like maybe we should unpack that trauma instead of thinking it funny. He feels too young and childlike in comparison to her, and power difference of age made me uncomfortable.
I run into this often when authors do a reverse age gap, I find that the 'older woman' can sometimes come across kinda predatory depending on the way the character is written and I wouldn't say that Lexi necessarily came across as a predator to me in this book lol bc she didn't but she did give me a bit of the ick.
There's plenty of lines and scenes throughout the book that I know were intended to be laugh out loud moments, but I read the entire book with a straight face. Take from that what you will.
All in all, I do think if you're looking for something to read while at the beach for the afternoon and you don't want anything too serious (even though they're stranded at sea, it's not really high stakes vibes) it's worth a read.
Expected Release Date - 04/01/25
╰⪼ 💜Forced Proximity (to the MAX)
╰⪼ ☀️Grumpy ✘ Sunshine
╰⪼ ⚓Age Gap
╰⪼ 🌊Fish Out Of Water
╰⪼ 💖Lost at Sea
⋆✴︎˚｡⋆ Connect with me on Instagram ˗ˏˋ★‿︵‧ ˚ ₊⊹
Many thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for the advanced digital copy - all thoughts are my own.
March 21, 2025
For a story that nearly sailed away without me, I’m glad I was finally able to get onboard with it. It won’t go down as one of my favorite trips, but I have no regrets!
Thirty-one year old Lexi has put her own life on hold for the sake of her best friend/de facto “sister” Penny’s four-year-old daughter Mae, who she helps care for and all but sees as her own. When her boss Marissa sees a cute young man at the pub, she encourages Lexi to put herself first for a change and have a little fun.
Twenty-three-year-old Zeke has spent his life believing his recently deceased dad isn’t his biological dad and copes by sleeping around. With therapy, he’s trying to turn over a new leaf and find true love. Then he sees Lexi. Rules are meant to be broken, right?
After a night of drinking and a “no strings attached” one-night stand on a houseboat, Lexi and Zeke wake up and he offers to walk her home - only there’s a snafu. After a mistake in mooring the boat in the fog the night before, it’s now adrift on the ocean with no land in sight!
This begins a twelve day journey fraught with dwindling supplies, leaks, storms and no land or rescue in sight, not to mention some physical mishaps that put both of them in further danger.
I’ll break down what did and didn’t work for me because, to be honest with you, reading this wasn’t smooth sailing for me any more than it was for our main couple!
What worked:
● Character growth. After a rough start, where I very nearly DNF’d this due to the shallowness of both characters, it was nice to see them become more vulnerable and real as the story progressed. Their edges were smoothed nicely.
● A clever premise. I’ve never seen this scenario in a romance, so it was fun to see how it would play out trying to build a romance in such a perilous predicament.
● Emotional depth. The exploration of grief (both characters lost a parent) and overcoming dysfunctional patterns helped make the MCs more sympathetic and relatable over time.
● A sweet ending. It's a bit of a buy-in, but what the heck? I’ll bite. 😊
Where I struggled:
∅ Insta-love. I could never buy into the deep connection and chemistry Zeke and Lexi had based on so little knowledge of each other. Zeke, particularly, had what felt like an unbalanced attraction to Lexi after sleeping with her one time. It felt a little ooky at first!
∅ Unhealthy attachment. Is it just me, or did anyone else find Lexi’s attachment to Mae a bit unbalanced too? I get that she helped raise Penny’s daughter, but she spoke of Mae as if she was her own daughter and as if her life revolved around the child. She was “Aunt Lexi”, but it felt like those maternal lines were blurred for her.
∅ Believability. For two people who didn’t know they’d be lost at sea, it felt like they conveniently always had everything they needed. I never felt an extreme sense of danger, because Zeke was whipping up meals for them the entire time!
Anyways, true to the book there were some rough spots on this trip I had to get past, but I’m pretty happy with where it landed. If you like romance with some adventure and mild peril, this might be a fun one for you!
★★★ ½
Thanks to Berkley Publishing, NetGalley and author Beth O’Leary for this digital ARC to honestly review. It’s out on April 1, 2025.
Thirty-one year old Lexi has put her own life on hold for the sake of her best friend/de facto “sister” Penny’s four-year-old daughter Mae, who she helps care for and all but sees as her own. When her boss Marissa sees a cute young man at the pub, she encourages Lexi to put herself first for a change and have a little fun.
Twenty-three-year-old Zeke has spent his life believing his recently deceased dad isn’t his biological dad and copes by sleeping around. With therapy, he’s trying to turn over a new leaf and find true love. Then he sees Lexi. Rules are meant to be broken, right?
After a night of drinking and a “no strings attached” one-night stand on a houseboat, Lexi and Zeke wake up and he offers to walk her home - only there’s a snafu. After a mistake in mooring the boat in the fog the night before, it’s now adrift on the ocean with no land in sight!
This begins a twelve day journey fraught with dwindling supplies, leaks, storms and no land or rescue in sight, not to mention some physical mishaps that put both of them in further danger.
I’ll break down what did and didn’t work for me because, to be honest with you, reading this wasn’t smooth sailing for me any more than it was for our main couple!
What worked:
● Character growth. After a rough start, where I very nearly DNF’d this due to the shallowness of both characters, it was nice to see them become more vulnerable and real as the story progressed. Their edges were smoothed nicely.
● A clever premise. I’ve never seen this scenario in a romance, so it was fun to see how it would play out trying to build a romance in such a perilous predicament.
● Emotional depth. The exploration of grief (both characters lost a parent) and overcoming dysfunctional patterns helped make the MCs more sympathetic and relatable over time.
● A sweet ending. It's a bit of a buy-in, but what the heck? I’ll bite. 😊
Where I struggled:
∅ Insta-love. I could never buy into the deep connection and chemistry Zeke and Lexi had based on so little knowledge of each other. Zeke, particularly, had what felt like an unbalanced attraction to Lexi after sleeping with her one time. It felt a little ooky at first!
∅ Unhealthy attachment. Is it just me, or did anyone else find Lexi’s attachment to Mae a bit unbalanced too? I get that she helped raise Penny’s daughter, but she spoke of Mae as if she was her own daughter and as if her life revolved around the child. She was “Aunt Lexi”, but it felt like those maternal lines were blurred for her.
∅ Believability. For two people who didn’t know they’d be lost at sea, it felt like they conveniently always had everything they needed. I never felt an extreme sense of danger, because Zeke was whipping up meals for them the entire time!
Anyways, true to the book there were some rough spots on this trip I had to get past, but I’m pretty happy with where it landed. If you like romance with some adventure and mild peril, this might be a fun one for you!
★★★ ½
Thanks to Berkley Publishing, NetGalley and author Beth O’Leary for this digital ARC to honestly review. It’s out on April 1, 2025.
December 8, 2025
Wow - Beth O'Leary's latest book is a perfect mix of romance and adventure that will keep you reading late into the night! The story follows Lexi and Zeke, two people who meet by chance and end up stranded on a houseboat in the middle of the ocean. What starts as a simple one-night stand turns into a fight for survival that neither of them expected.
The story kicks off when Lexi, who helps raise her best friend's kid, meets the mysterious Zeke. He's in town dealing with his dad's old houseboat, and they hit it off right away. But their casual hookup takes a wild turn when they wake up to find themselves drifting at sea with no phone signal, barely any food, and zero idea how to handle a boat!
What makes this book special is how real Lexi and Zeke feel. Sure, there's plenty of attraction between them, but as they work together to survive, we get to see who they really are. They open up about their past hurts, their fears, and dreams they've given up on. Being stuck together forces them to be honest in ways they never planned.
The ocean setting adds so much excitement to their love story. Each day brings new challenges - from running out of food to surviving storms - and watching them face these problems together is both nerve-wracking and sweet. The whole "lost at sea" thing really matches how lost they both feel in their regular lives, which makes their growing connection even more meaningful.
There's also a surprise twist near the end that adds a whole new layer to their story. It makes you look at everything differently and shows just how deep their struggles go. O'Leary handles this turn perfectly, keeping you totally invested in what happens to these characters.
This book is a must-read if you love stories where romance meets adventure. It's about finding love in crazy situations and learning to trust again. The way O'Leary writes makes you feel like you're right there on the boat with Lexi and Zeke, rooting for them to make it through both the stormy seas and their return to normal life.
O'Leary has really outdone herself here. The book is fresh, exciting, and touching all at once. It's definitely one of the best romance novels of the year - perfect for anyone who wants a love story with some real adventure mixed in!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for sharing this amazing book's digital reviewer copy with me in exchange of my honest thoughts.
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The story kicks off when Lexi, who helps raise her best friend's kid, meets the mysterious Zeke. He's in town dealing with his dad's old houseboat, and they hit it off right away. But their casual hookup takes a wild turn when they wake up to find themselves drifting at sea with no phone signal, barely any food, and zero idea how to handle a boat!
What makes this book special is how real Lexi and Zeke feel. Sure, there's plenty of attraction between them, but as they work together to survive, we get to see who they really are. They open up about their past hurts, their fears, and dreams they've given up on. Being stuck together forces them to be honest in ways they never planned.
The ocean setting adds so much excitement to their love story. Each day brings new challenges - from running out of food to surviving storms - and watching them face these problems together is both nerve-wracking and sweet. The whole "lost at sea" thing really matches how lost they both feel in their regular lives, which makes their growing connection even more meaningful.
There's also a surprise twist near the end that adds a whole new layer to their story. It makes you look at everything differently and shows just how deep their struggles go. O'Leary handles this turn perfectly, keeping you totally invested in what happens to these characters.
This book is a must-read if you love stories where romance meets adventure. It's about finding love in crazy situations and learning to trust again. The way O'Leary writes makes you feel like you're right there on the boat with Lexi and Zeke, rooting for them to make it through both the stormy seas and their return to normal life.
O'Leary has really outdone herself here. The book is fresh, exciting, and touching all at once. It's definitely one of the best romance novels of the year - perfect for anyone who wants a love story with some real adventure mixed in!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for sharing this amazing book's digital reviewer copy with me in exchange of my honest thoughts.
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October 14, 2025
➸ 1.5/5 stars
this book was painful to get through.
I honestly wish I could erase this book from my brain.
**SPOILERS**
because tell me why I’m supposed to believe that being stranded on a boat for twelve days with your one night stand is enough to make someone fall in love? TRAUMA BOND? Maybe. But real, actual, deep love? Be so serious 😭
don’t even get me started on the ending because what the hell was that? it was one of the most ridiculous things I’ve ever read in my entire life. not only was it beyond stupid, but it also dragged the book out for so long that by the time I reached the last page, I wanted to cry from pure relief.
what do you mean he’s her best friend’s baby daddy?? I would be running for the hills and never looking back. I swear kept thinking and hoping that there’s gotta be another twist coming. Maybe it’s actually his brother’s kid or something else but NOPE. Deadass his baby.
why did her friend keep repeating that Zeke got her pregnant when he was barely legal? we get it. he was a fresh 18, and you were a whole adult. I was already uncomfortable, and you just had to keep reminding me like a damn broken record??
AND TELL ME WHY HIS NAME GAVE ME FLASHBACKS FROM AOT SEASON 4 😭 every time she’ll call him i flinch “what is zeke yeager doing in my book” 🤚🏻
***ARC provided by the publisher—berkley publishing group—in exchange for an honest Review.***
this book was painful to get through.
I honestly wish I could erase this book from my brain.
**SPOILERS**
because tell me why I’m supposed to believe that being stranded on a boat for twelve days with your one night stand is enough to make someone fall in love? TRAUMA BOND? Maybe. But real, actual, deep love? Be so serious 😭
don’t even get me started on the ending because what the hell was that? it was one of the most ridiculous things I’ve ever read in my entire life. not only was it beyond stupid, but it also dragged the book out for so long that by the time I reached the last page, I wanted to cry from pure relief.
what do you mean he’s her best friend’s baby daddy?? I would be running for the hills and never looking back. I swear kept thinking and hoping that there’s gotta be another twist coming. Maybe it’s actually his brother’s kid or something else but NOPE. Deadass his baby.
why did her friend keep repeating that Zeke got her pregnant when he was barely legal? we get it. he was a fresh 18, and you were a whole adult. I was already uncomfortable, and you just had to keep reminding me like a damn broken record??
AND TELL ME WHY HIS NAME GAVE ME FLASHBACKS FROM AOT SEASON 4 😭 every time she’ll call him i flinch “what is zeke yeager doing in my book” 🤚🏻
***ARC provided by the publisher—berkley publishing group—in exchange for an honest Review.***
April 7, 2025
˗ˏˋ ★★☆☆☆ ˎˊ˗
"Swept Away" by Beth O’Leary
aka: lost at sea AND lost in the plot.
SPOILER WARNING — if you don’t want to know the WILD twist that drops like a soggy anchor at 90%, turn back now!!!
This book had me screaming into the void and not in a swoony way. More like, “HOW is this happening?” and “WHO thought this was romantic???”
I went in expecting forced proximity + strangers to lovers + stuck on a boat = tension, chemistry, banter. What I got was a textbook example of trauma bonding and one of the WEIRDEST twists I’ve read in recent memory.
Let’s break this down:
⚓ One-night stand? Sure, I can vibe.
⚓ Boat drifting off because of miscommunication? Okay, I’ll suspend disbelief.
⚓ Dude has a festering injury and they're flirting through it?? What??
⚓ They fall in “love” while dehydrated and delusional? This is not The Notebook. This is a health hazard.
⚓ And then… at 90%... HE’S HER BEST FRIEND’S BABY DADDY.
WHAT. THE. HELL. ASTAGHFIRULLAH. THAT AIN’T ROMANCE. THAT’S TRAUMA BONDING. AND IT AIN’T GONNA LAST.
I had high hopes. I really did. But this book gave:
✧ zero chemistry
✧ vibes of a weird fever dream
✧ characters who needed therapy more than each other
✧ dialogue that felt like it belonged in a CW show from 2012
Also… why was the reverse age gap written like THAT? There’s a way to explore it with nuance. This book said: “Let’s keep reminding you that he was ‘barely legal’ when he had a kid with a grown woman!”
HELLO??? REPORT TO THE POLICE IMMEDIATELY???
TL;DR:
✧ 2 stars for effort (and the cover, I guess)
✧ The romance? Unbelievable.
✧ The twist? Soapy in the worst way.
✧ The vibes? Off. Just off.
I need a palate cleanser now. Happy reading (but not this one maybe) 🫠
"Swept Away" by Beth O’Leary
aka: lost at sea AND lost in the plot.
SPOILER WARNING — if you don’t want to know the WILD twist that drops like a soggy anchor at 90%, turn back now!!!
This book had me screaming into the void and not in a swoony way. More like, “HOW is this happening?” and “WHO thought this was romantic???”
I went in expecting forced proximity + strangers to lovers + stuck on a boat = tension, chemistry, banter. What I got was a textbook example of trauma bonding and one of the WEIRDEST twists I’ve read in recent memory.
Let’s break this down:
⚓ One-night stand? Sure, I can vibe.
⚓ Boat drifting off because of miscommunication? Okay, I’ll suspend disbelief.
⚓ Dude has a festering injury and they're flirting through it?? What??
⚓ They fall in “love” while dehydrated and delusional? This is not The Notebook. This is a health hazard.
⚓ And then… at 90%... HE’S HER BEST FRIEND’S BABY DADDY.
WHAT. THE. HELL. ASTAGHFIRULLAH. THAT AIN’T ROMANCE. THAT’S TRAUMA BONDING. AND IT AIN’T GONNA LAST.
I had high hopes. I really did. But this book gave:
✧ zero chemistry
✧ vibes of a weird fever dream
✧ characters who needed therapy more than each other
✧ dialogue that felt like it belonged in a CW show from 2012
Also… why was the reverse age gap written like THAT? There’s a way to explore it with nuance. This book said: “Let’s keep reminding you that he was ‘barely legal’ when he had a kid with a grown woman!”
HELLO??? REPORT TO THE POLICE IMMEDIATELY???
TL;DR:
✧ 2 stars for effort (and the cover, I guess)
✧ The romance? Unbelievable.
✧ The twist? Soapy in the worst way.
✧ The vibes? Off. Just off.
I need a palate cleanser now. Happy reading (but not this one maybe) 🫠
June 22, 2025
When Zeke and Lexi have a fun filled one night stand in a houseboat, they have no idea it is only the start of an “adventure” together. By the time they realize no one tied the houseboat to the dock the night before, they are lost at sea.
As the opposite of an adventure girlie, romance books that feature this sub-genre are never my speed. That is until this one. I don’t know how Beth O’Leary pulled me in so completely, but by the time I realized it, I too was swept away. Her originality, humor and remarkably lovable characters always make for an incredible story.
I fell completely in love with Zeke and Lexi. While there is a fairly large age gap (8 years), these two never felt like anything less than equals in every way. Zeke is an original, full of passion, heart and charisma. Lexi is steadfast and loyal but afraid to trust.
Where Lexi fell short, Zeke shined and visa versa. The way these two challenged each other under such difficult circumstances, allowing each to have their own unique growth arc, made this romance a standout. All of the characters, including Eugene (iykyk), were unforgettable and I am so happy I got to experience their adventure. Will I be rereading this one when the audio is released, yes, yes I will.
Read if you like:
▪️romantic adventures
▪️reverse age gap
▪️complicated one night stands
▪️houseboat life
▪️forced proximity
▪️found family
▪️vibrant characters
Check out my Bookstagram post here ♥
Thank you Berkley Romance for the advanced copy.
📌 Pub: April 1, 2025
As the opposite of an adventure girlie, romance books that feature this sub-genre are never my speed. That is until this one. I don’t know how Beth O’Leary pulled me in so completely, but by the time I realized it, I too was swept away. Her originality, humor and remarkably lovable characters always make for an incredible story.
I fell completely in love with Zeke and Lexi. While there is a fairly large age gap (8 years), these two never felt like anything less than equals in every way. Zeke is an original, full of passion, heart and charisma. Lexi is steadfast and loyal but afraid to trust.
Where Lexi fell short, Zeke shined and visa versa. The way these two challenged each other under such difficult circumstances, allowing each to have their own unique growth arc, made this romance a standout. All of the characters, including Eugene (iykyk), were unforgettable and I am so happy I got to experience their adventure. Will I be rereading this one when the audio is released, yes, yes I will.
Read if you like:
▪️romantic adventures
▪️reverse age gap
▪️complicated one night stands
▪️houseboat life
▪️forced proximity
▪️found family
▪️vibrant characters
Check out my Bookstagram post here ♥
Thank you Berkley Romance for the advanced copy.
📌 Pub: April 1, 2025
August 14, 2025
ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ 0.75/5
Y'all better give me an A+ for the effort I put in to write this...feel free to show your gratitude by telling me how awesome I am...ok, thanks!!
10 reasons I couldn't rate this higher:
1. The concept in theory was good. They have a one-night-stand and get stranded at sea. I was very intrigued after reading the blurb and I requested the book from the library because I needed to see what was going to happen. I've read a book before where they got stranded somewhere and I liked it, so I thought that I would enjoy this too. Unfortunately, I didn't really end up loving the execution. The idea sounds great and maybe it could have been enjoyable.
2. The boat. The first scene opens up with them being confused about who owns the boat they are on. She thinks her friend does. He says that he does. What pissed me off is that this girl doesn't even own the boat and she was like "this is my friend's boat, get out". Girl, she could have sold it, she's not going to tell you everything in her life. She quite literally was 3 seconds away from throwing a tantrum. She's 31. I'm literally a decade younger exactly, and at 21, I wouldn't even think about doing that. Literally even a teenager or a child wouldn't do that. So, just based off that, I disliked her character. A LOT.
3. Their "romance" was not romance. Whoever is calling this love is going to get judged by me. I will not outwardly judge you, but inside, very much so. It was trauma bonding at its core. Now listen, we love when characters share their vulnerabilities and the other person makes you feel validated, but there has to be some kind of underlying relationship. Sorry to break it to you, but trauma bonding ≠ love or a relationship.
4. The age gap being shoved down our throats. I've said this before and I will continue to say it. Age gap is only hot when it is not over emphasized and when the characters truly behave their age. What makes it annoying and VERY creepy is when the characters keep mentioning it over and over again. I got it the first time, I am aware they have an 8 year age gap and she's older than him.
5. The characters were insufferable. Neither of them behaved their age and they both behaved like children. Especially Lexi because she was supposed to be 31. I'm not 31, neither do I know any 31-year olds, but I have to guess that is not how they act. Their personalities often didn't work with their age and how I expected their maturity levels to be at. I mean, I'm not expecting them to be super mature and I do like when characters are chaotic and fun, but there are limits to what I can overlook.
6. She kept referring to him as "kid". In the span of one chapter, she goes between getting scared because she's stranded with a man that she doesn't know because there's the possibility that he might harm her and then literally calling him a kid. Which is it lady? That almost sounds like she's infantilizing him and it makes me wonder why she even hooked up with him after knowing that he's younger than her.
7. It was kind of long. I got bored after a little bit and I felt like there was a little bit of filler than I had to skim. I think if those fillers focused more on building a genuine connection without the trauma bonding aspect, then maybe I could have seen them having a relationship. I needed them to build a relationship slowly. It is possible, especially because they are stranded, so maybe more moments between them in a different light could have helped? Also their personalities being more age appropriate along with that could have helped as well.
8. They said "I love you" on the eleventh day. Ok, this is me probably being petty, but they've known each other for under 12 days and they're confessing their love. Please, tell me that's I'm not insane for thinking that this is not normal. I wish they spent more time actually figuring each other out, because I don't know if they really, truly love each other. Being in strange situations does something to your brain and you might feel like you feel a certain way, but what if it was just that, situational?
9. I don't see the relationship lasting. I can see that they might love each other when they were on that boat, but in the real-world, it seemed unlikely. Well, considering the drama that was also present when they were finally found and the fact that they didn't communicate, I can't see it. Sorry.
The last one...and hold your breath guys, because it was a lot to take in.
10. He's the best friend's baby daddy. WE HAVE LOST THE PLOT SO BAD. How tf am I supposed to picture him as her love interest when he has a literal child with the friend? Oh, and we can't forget the fact that he didn't know about this child for so long bc her friend basically was selfish. Gave me the ick so bad.
Here's how I believe this woman's relationship needs to work in Java because I needed something to do with my brain.
public class CurrentRelationshipStatus {
public static void main(String[] args) {
String Zeke = "friend's baby daddy";
String position = "friend's baby daddy";
if (Zeke == position) {
System.out.println("He should be off-limits to you!");
} else {
System.out.println("Feel free to date him!");
}
}
}
ughhhh, formatting in Goodreads is pissing me off, but she should end up in the if part of the statement, which means HE SHOULD BE OFF-LIMITS TO HER!!
I rest my case. 🫡
square 3: includes a boat ✔︎
| o | o | ⨯ | o | ⨯ |
| ⨯ | o | o | ⨯ | ⨯ |
| ⨯ | ⨯ | ⨯ | o | ⨯ |
| ⨯ | o | ⨯ | ⨯ | ⨯ |
| ⨯ | ⨯ | ⨯ | ⨯ | ⨯ |
----------
0.75/5!! yeah, no bc ummmmm wtf please 🌚 rtc
Y'all better give me an A+ for the effort I put in to write this...feel free to show your gratitude by telling me how awesome I am...ok, thanks!!
10 reasons I couldn't rate this higher:
1. The concept in theory was good. They have a one-night-stand and get stranded at sea. I was very intrigued after reading the blurb and I requested the book from the library because I needed to see what was going to happen. I've read a book before where they got stranded somewhere and I liked it, so I thought that I would enjoy this too. Unfortunately, I didn't really end up loving the execution. The idea sounds great and maybe it could have been enjoyable.
2. The boat. The first scene opens up with them being confused about who owns the boat they are on. She thinks her friend does. He says that he does. What pissed me off is that this girl doesn't even own the boat and she was like "this is my friend's boat, get out". Girl, she could have sold it, she's not going to tell you everything in her life. She quite literally was 3 seconds away from throwing a tantrum. She's 31. I'm literally a decade younger exactly, and at 21, I wouldn't even think about doing that. Literally even a teenager or a child wouldn't do that. So, just based off that, I disliked her character. A LOT.
3. Their "romance" was not romance. Whoever is calling this love is going to get judged by me. I will not outwardly judge you, but inside, very much so. It was trauma bonding at its core. Now listen, we love when characters share their vulnerabilities and the other person makes you feel validated, but there has to be some kind of underlying relationship. Sorry to break it to you, but trauma bonding ≠ love or a relationship.
4. The age gap being shoved down our throats. I've said this before and I will continue to say it. Age gap is only hot when it is not over emphasized and when the characters truly behave their age. What makes it annoying and VERY creepy is when the characters keep mentioning it over and over again. I got it the first time, I am aware they have an 8 year age gap and she's older than him.
5. The characters were insufferable. Neither of them behaved their age and they both behaved like children. Especially Lexi because she was supposed to be 31. I'm not 31, neither do I know any 31-year olds, but I have to guess that is not how they act. Their personalities often didn't work with their age and how I expected their maturity levels to be at. I mean, I'm not expecting them to be super mature and I do like when characters are chaotic and fun, but there are limits to what I can overlook.
6. She kept referring to him as "kid". In the span of one chapter, she goes between getting scared because she's stranded with a man that she doesn't know because there's the possibility that he might harm her and then literally calling him a kid. Which is it lady? That almost sounds like she's infantilizing him and it makes me wonder why she even hooked up with him after knowing that he's younger than her.
7. It was kind of long. I got bored after a little bit and I felt like there was a little bit of filler than I had to skim. I think if those fillers focused more on building a genuine connection without the trauma bonding aspect, then maybe I could have seen them having a relationship. I needed them to build a relationship slowly. It is possible, especially because they are stranded, so maybe more moments between them in a different light could have helped? Also their personalities being more age appropriate along with that could have helped as well.
8. They said "I love you" on the eleventh day. Ok, this is me probably being petty, but they've known each other for under 12 days and they're confessing their love. Please, tell me that's I'm not insane for thinking that this is not normal. I wish they spent more time actually figuring each other out, because I don't know if they really, truly love each other. Being in strange situations does something to your brain and you might feel like you feel a certain way, but what if it was just that, situational?
9. I don't see the relationship lasting. I can see that they might love each other when they were on that boat, but in the real-world, it seemed unlikely. Well, considering the drama that was also present when they were finally found and the fact that they didn't communicate, I can't see it. Sorry.
The last one...and hold your breath guys, because it was a lot to take in.
10. He's the best friend's baby daddy. WE HAVE LOST THE PLOT SO BAD. How tf am I supposed to picture him as her love interest when he has a literal child with the friend? Oh, and we can't forget the fact that he didn't know about this child for so long bc her friend basically was selfish. Gave me the ick so bad.
Here's how I believe this woman's relationship needs to work in Java because I needed something to do with my brain.
public class CurrentRelationshipStatus {
public static void main(String[] args) {
String Zeke = "friend's baby daddy";
String position = "friend's baby daddy";
if (Zeke == position) {
System.out.println("He should be off-limits to you!");
} else {
System.out.println("Feel free to date him!");
}
}
}
ughhhh, formatting in Goodreads is pissing me off, but she should end up in the if part of the statement, which means HE SHOULD BE OFF-LIMITS TO HER!!
I rest my case. 🫡
square 3: includes a boat ✔︎
| o | o | ⨯ | o | ⨯ |
| ⨯ | o | o | ⨯ | ⨯ |
| ⨯ | ⨯ | ⨯ | o | ⨯ |
| ⨯ | o | ⨯ | ⨯ | ⨯ |
| ⨯ | ⨯ | ⨯ | ⨯ | ⨯ |
----------
0.75/5!! yeah, no bc ummmmm wtf please 🌚 rtc
April 1, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
When Lexi’s boss Marissa, spots an intriguing young man in the bar, she encourages Lexi to go outside of her comfort zone, and enjoy a “no strings attached” night of fun. Thirty One year old Lexi never dates, or does anything for herself really, as she has committed to helping to take care of her best friend’s 4 year old daughter, Mae, since Penny is a single mom. In fact, I found her attachment to Mae to be a bit unhealthy.
Twenty Three year old Zeke is only in town for the weekend to buy back his late father’s houseboat. Because of something he experienced at the age of sixteen, he keeps people at a distance as a self preservation tactic. “One Night Stands” are just his thing. I have never met a 23 year old guy who was this self aware-but maybe his past and therapy has made him grow up quickly? He often seemed more mature than Lexi.
Each is upfront about what they expect from the night, and they head back to the houseboat. But, what they didn’t expect after their passionate night was to wake up to miles and miles of ocean-with no land in sight!
The boat was not provisioned with the things you would need at Sea, and Zeke and Lexi must figure out how to survive and get back home, something that will bond them-whether or not that was the original plan!
When I read this premise, I was hesitant to request this book. As a flight attendant, I am trained in water survival skills, and believe me, it would not be fun and games. So, I really had to suspend disbelief and just go with this. In reality, there would probably be a lot more tears, fear and doubt, but these two stay mostly optimistic despite the dire circumstances.
This is a Rom-Com after all!
But, I put aside my concerns because this is Beth O’Leary, and I have loved all but one of her books! She writes great characters and puts them in awkward situations, and I could not take a chance on missing out! Even though this one wasn’t a favorite for me, I did mostly enjoy it, and am glad I took a chance on it.
A buddy read with MarilynW. Be sure to read her thoughts on this as well-we had MUCH to discuss!
AVAILABLE NOW!
Thank You to Berkley for the gifted copy provided through NetGalley. As always, these are my candid thoughts!
When Lexi’s boss Marissa, spots an intriguing young man in the bar, she encourages Lexi to go outside of her comfort zone, and enjoy a “no strings attached” night of fun. Thirty One year old Lexi never dates, or does anything for herself really, as she has committed to helping to take care of her best friend’s 4 year old daughter, Mae, since Penny is a single mom. In fact, I found her attachment to Mae to be a bit unhealthy.
Twenty Three year old Zeke is only in town for the weekend to buy back his late father’s houseboat. Because of something he experienced at the age of sixteen, he keeps people at a distance as a self preservation tactic. “One Night Stands” are just his thing. I have never met a 23 year old guy who was this self aware-but maybe his past and therapy has made him grow up quickly? He often seemed more mature than Lexi.
Each is upfront about what they expect from the night, and they head back to the houseboat. But, what they didn’t expect after their passionate night was to wake up to miles and miles of ocean-with no land in sight!
The boat was not provisioned with the things you would need at Sea, and Zeke and Lexi must figure out how to survive and get back home, something that will bond them-whether or not that was the original plan!
When I read this premise, I was hesitant to request this book. As a flight attendant, I am trained in water survival skills, and believe me, it would not be fun and games. So, I really had to suspend disbelief and just go with this. In reality, there would probably be a lot more tears, fear and doubt, but these two stay mostly optimistic despite the dire circumstances.
This is a Rom-Com after all!
But, I put aside my concerns because this is Beth O’Leary, and I have loved all but one of her books! She writes great characters and puts them in awkward situations, and I could not take a chance on missing out! Even though this one wasn’t a favorite for me, I did mostly enjoy it, and am glad I took a chance on it.
A buddy read with MarilynW. Be sure to read her thoughts on this as well-we had MUCH to discuss!
AVAILABLE NOW!
Thank You to Berkley for the gifted copy provided through NetGalley. As always, these are my candid thoughts!
March 20, 2025
If I had two words to describe this book, they would be: 𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒐𝒕𝒊𝒄 & 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒍𝒊𝒔𝒕𝒊𝒄 ⚓🔥
So first of all, I have to say: the author gave us such a realistic situation where the boat actually drifted away 😨 Like, I was nervous because as someone who has been on a lot of boats, it's very hard to not be aware that the boat is moving out of the marina. I have to applaud Beth for nailing that detail 👏
ZEKE AND LEXI OH MY GODDDDDD 😭 😭 😭 These two??? They are both imperfectly perfect, especially when they’re thrown into survival mode because they are literally AT SEA for days together How would you feel being trapped in the same space as your supposed one-night stand?? Excuse me, but I would panic 🫠 😂
Again, tying into the chaotic & realistic vibe, the author brought up so many moments that felt super real and genuinely stressful when you’re drifting in open sea (i.e no Google for when someone is injured). It had me hooked to keep reading! OH!!!! and if you think their love story ends when they get back to land… lol, you thought 🤭💀
The only reason this wasn’t a ⭐5-star⭐ for me is that cramming so many events into the span of their days at sea made it feel a bit dragged out for me at times. Even though it was eventful, I just found it a little too much, but that’s just my opinion!
This book is filled with sarcasm, humor, "omg, I’m stranded with my one-night stand???", and that forced proximity tension that makes them SO PERFECT for each other🔥 AGH, I loved it all !!!
I definitely recommend this book to the fans that love those survival situations and romance then YES read this book!!
tropes
💙 one night stand
💙 forced proximity
💙 age gap (23 mmc & 31 fmc)
💙 stranded at a boat
💙 strangers to lovers
⋆. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁⋆.⋆. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁⋆.⋆. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁⋆.⋆. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁⋆.
➳ 𝗽𝗿𝗲-𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱｡ꪆৎ ˚⋅ scared because i seen mixed reviews but i just want a vibey book so will see 🫣
𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘉𝘦𝘳𝘬𝘭𝘦𝘺 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘮𝘺 𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘤 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘧𝘳𝘦𝘦 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬
So first of all, I have to say: the author gave us such a realistic situation where the boat actually drifted away 😨 Like, I was nervous because as someone who has been on a lot of boats, it's very hard to not be aware that the boat is moving out of the marina. I have to applaud Beth for nailing that detail 👏
ZEKE AND LEXI OH MY GODDDDDD 😭 😭 😭 These two??? They are both imperfectly perfect, especially when they’re thrown into survival mode because they are literally AT SEA for days together How would you feel being trapped in the same space as your supposed one-night stand?? Excuse me, but I would panic 🫠 😂
Again, tying into the chaotic & realistic vibe, the author brought up so many moments that felt super real and genuinely stressful when you’re drifting in open sea (i.e no Google for when someone is injured). It had me hooked to keep reading! OH!!!! and if you think their love story ends when they get back to land… lol, you thought 🤭💀
The only reason this wasn’t a ⭐5-star⭐ for me is that cramming so many events into the span of their days at sea made it feel a bit dragged out for me at times. Even though it was eventful, I just found it a little too much, but that’s just my opinion!
This book is filled with sarcasm, humor, "omg, I’m stranded with my one-night stand???", and that forced proximity tension that makes them SO PERFECT for each other🔥 AGH, I loved it all !!!
I definitely recommend this book to the fans that love those survival situations and romance then YES read this book!!
tropes
💙 one night stand
💙 forced proximity
💙 age gap (23 mmc & 31 fmc)
💙 stranded at a boat
💙 strangers to lovers
⋆. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁⋆.⋆. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁⋆.⋆. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁⋆.⋆. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁⋆.
➳ 𝗽𝗿𝗲-𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱｡ꪆৎ ˚⋅ scared because i seen mixed reviews but i just want a vibey book so will see 🫣
𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘉𝘦𝘳𝘬𝘭𝘦𝘺 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘮𝘺 𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘤 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘧𝘳𝘦𝘦 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬
May 28, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ Unforgettable, romantic, and thrilling!
Swept Away by Beth O’Leary is an adventurous love story that completely stole my heart! From the very first page, I was hooked on the unexpected journey of Zeke and Lexi. Two strangers who never planned to see each other again, only to wake up stranded on a drifting houseboat with no way back. What started as a one-night stand quickly turned into something much more, a terrifying fight for survival where the vast and endless ocean became both breathtaking and utterly unforgiving.
Miles and miles of open water, no land in sight, and only each other to rely on. I felt their anguish, their desperation, but also the quiet moments of connection that began to form. Their situation was dire, yet it also created the perfect space for them to truly see one another. The tension was real, but so was the laughter, the banter, and the slow realization that maybe fate had other plans for them.
The ending had the perfect pace, but I found myself racing through because I was so eager to see how it would all unfold. That’s how much I loved these characters and how deeply I cared about their journey. In the end, I was deeply touched and loved the direction the story took. Beth O’Leary has crafted a story that is both heartwarming and exhilarating, once again proving why she’s a master of unforgettable romance.
If you love stories filled with adventure, forced proximity, and a romance that feels meant to be, Swept Away is a must-read. Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book. I can’t wait for everyone to experience it when it releases on April 1, 2025!
Swept Away by Beth O’Leary is an adventurous love story that completely stole my heart! From the very first page, I was hooked on the unexpected journey of Zeke and Lexi. Two strangers who never planned to see each other again, only to wake up stranded on a drifting houseboat with no way back. What started as a one-night stand quickly turned into something much more, a terrifying fight for survival where the vast and endless ocean became both breathtaking and utterly unforgiving.
Miles and miles of open water, no land in sight, and only each other to rely on. I felt their anguish, their desperation, but also the quiet moments of connection that began to form. Their situation was dire, yet it also created the perfect space for them to truly see one another. The tension was real, but so was the laughter, the banter, and the slow realization that maybe fate had other plans for them.
The ending had the perfect pace, but I found myself racing through because I was so eager to see how it would all unfold. That’s how much I loved these characters and how deeply I cared about their journey. In the end, I was deeply touched and loved the direction the story took. Beth O’Leary has crafted a story that is both heartwarming and exhilarating, once again proving why she’s a master of unforgettable romance.
If you love stories filled with adventure, forced proximity, and a romance that feels meant to be, Swept Away is a must-read. Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book. I can’t wait for everyone to experience it when it releases on April 1, 2025!
June 8, 2025
✩ 3 stars ✩
What to Expect:
➼ Reverse Age Gap (31 & 23)
➼ Forced Proximity
➼ One Night Stand
➼ Strangers-to-Lovers
➼ Self-discovery
➼ Lost at Sea
➼ Plot Twist
➼ 3rd Act Break Up
➼ Emotional Depth
➼ Dual Narration
➼ Dual First Person POV
Based on the cover, I expected this to be a fun summer rom-com, but parts of this book almost felt like a thriller. I have a healthy fear of the ocean, so the idea of being lost at sea in an unseaworthy houseboat was a rather terrifying prospect for me. They have no way of contacting anyone or reaching land and one bad storm likely would have taken them out. Because of this, I had to recalibrate my expectations a bit at the start, but I mostly enjoyed this in the end.
This is a reverse age gap romance that starts with a one night stand. Because of some miscommunication when they are boarding the MMC’s houseboat, they do not properly secure the boat to the dock and wake in the morning to find themselves adrift at sea. The FMC understandably panics, but the MMC remains very cool and level headed throughout the book. He had a very steadfast personality that honestly made him feel more mature than the FMC.
The one night stand was an uncharacteristic choice for both of them for different reasons. For the FMC it was that she never did things like that and for the MMC it was that he used to have casual encounters all the time but had been actively looking for something real. They both make an exception for each other. The MMC’s past comes into play in a few ways in the story and I had mixed feelings about some of them. Apart from his playboy past, he really seemed like the perfect guy and he had a backstory that explained how he ended up on that path in the first place. I was sympathetic to his story, but it honestly made me feel like an older woman maybe wasn’t the best choice for him.
There were some events at the end of the book that did take me by surprise and lead to a 3rd act break up. Like most people, I am not a big fan of this trope, but in this particular case, I thought it was needed. I did struggle with some of the side characters because of reasons tied to their break up, but when they did eventually get back together, I felt like it made their relationship feel more solid. It would be hard not to bond with someone in a confined space in a life or death situation, but after they got past this particular hurdle as well, I felt confident that they both knew what they wanted out of the relationship and that they would make it in the long run as a couple.
This book had a lot more emotional depth and heart than I expected. In addition to their emotional journey to survive and make it safely back to land, they both did a lot of soul searching and emotional work to process past traumas and figure out what they really wanted out of life. There’s nothing like a near death experience to put things into perspective. This book was so much more than meets the eye. As long as you don’t go in expecting a rom-com like me, I think you’ll enjoy this one!
✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼
Pre-read: This cover was calling my name 🩷💜
≪ ◦ ❖ ◦ ≫
Connect with me on Instagram
What to Expect:
➼ Reverse Age Gap (31 & 23)
➼ Forced Proximity
➼ One Night Stand
➼ Strangers-to-Lovers
➼ Self-discovery
➼ Lost at Sea
➼ Plot Twist
➼ 3rd Act Break Up
➼ Emotional Depth
➼ Dual Narration
➼ Dual First Person POV
Based on the cover, I expected this to be a fun summer rom-com, but parts of this book almost felt like a thriller. I have a healthy fear of the ocean, so the idea of being lost at sea in an unseaworthy houseboat was a rather terrifying prospect for me. They have no way of contacting anyone or reaching land and one bad storm likely would have taken them out. Because of this, I had to recalibrate my expectations a bit at the start, but I mostly enjoyed this in the end.
This is a reverse age gap romance that starts with a one night stand. Because of some miscommunication when they are boarding the MMC’s houseboat, they do not properly secure the boat to the dock and wake in the morning to find themselves adrift at sea. The FMC understandably panics, but the MMC remains very cool and level headed throughout the book. He had a very steadfast personality that honestly made him feel more mature than the FMC.
The one night stand was an uncharacteristic choice for both of them for different reasons. For the FMC it was that she never did things like that and for the MMC it was that he used to have casual encounters all the time but had been actively looking for something real. They both make an exception for each other. The MMC’s past comes into play in a few ways in the story and I had mixed feelings about some of them. Apart from his playboy past, he really seemed like the perfect guy and he had a backstory that explained how he ended up on that path in the first place. I was sympathetic to his story, but it honestly made me feel like an older woman maybe wasn’t the best choice for him.
There were some events at the end of the book that did take me by surprise and lead to a 3rd act break up. Like most people, I am not a big fan of this trope, but in this particular case, I thought it was needed. I did struggle with some of the side characters because of reasons tied to their break up, but when they did eventually get back together, I felt like it made their relationship feel more solid. It would be hard not to bond with someone in a confined space in a life or death situation, but after they got past this particular hurdle as well, I felt confident that they both knew what they wanted out of the relationship and that they would make it in the long run as a couple.
This book had a lot more emotional depth and heart than I expected. In addition to their emotional journey to survive and make it safely back to land, they both did a lot of soul searching and emotional work to process past traumas and figure out what they really wanted out of life. There’s nothing like a near death experience to put things into perspective. This book was so much more than meets the eye. As long as you don’t go in expecting a rom-com like me, I think you’ll enjoy this one!
✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼
Pre-read: This cover was calling my name 🩷💜
≪ ◦ ❖ ◦ ≫
Connect with me on Instagram
Want to read
January 9, 2025eeeep thanks Hachette for the arc!! reverse age gap x lost at sea — SOLD 🎟️
July 16, 2025
. ۫ ꣑ৎ 3 stars ★
hm. i have mixed opinions on this one. i was supposed to finish it during a readathon two days ago but i was reading it at a snail’s pace – we could blame lack of sleep there, if you want – then yesterday i read 20 pages and couldn’t be bothered with more – can’t blame lack of sleep there.
i did like lexi and zeke (love those names btw), and did feel the chemistry between them – but only sometimes. it felt like there was an on/off switch that the author toggled. on = readers eat this up! off = they’re gonna turn into the most dry couple ever!
was kind of instalovey too, which is a turn off for, i feel like, most of us. if you don’t know about this book, basically lexi and zeke have a one night stand then get stranded on a boat together for like two weeks (solid premise, btw). so in the grand scheme, it doesn’t always feel instalovey because it doessorta happen over the course of the book, but then... you remember it’s only over the span of, like, two weeks. so, i repeat – instalovey.
i’m also just not sure beth o’leary’s writing is really for me unfortunately. i read the flatshare a while back and gave it one star because it gave nothing and the writing was so boring it was drying my eyes out. so, idk, great cover and entertaining concept, but ultimately saurrrr disappointing and dry.
ִֶָ 𓂃⊹ ִֶָ pre read
i want to finish another book in my readathon which means i need a fun little romance and this cover is saurrr gorgeous 🙂↕️💐
hm. i have mixed opinions on this one. i was supposed to finish it during a readathon two days ago but i was reading it at a snail’s pace – we could blame lack of sleep there, if you want – then yesterday i read 20 pages and couldn’t be bothered with more – can’t blame lack of sleep there.
i did like lexi and zeke (love those names btw), and did feel the chemistry between them – but only sometimes. it felt like there was an on/off switch that the author toggled. on = readers eat this up! off = they’re gonna turn into the most dry couple ever!
was kind of instalovey too, which is a turn off for, i feel like, most of us. if you don’t know about this book, basically lexi and zeke have a one night stand then get stranded on a boat together for like two weeks (solid premise, btw). so in the grand scheme, it doesn’t always feel instalovey because it does
i’m also just not sure beth o’leary’s writing is really for me unfortunately. i read the flatshare a while back and gave it one star because it gave nothing and the writing was so boring it was drying my eyes out. so, idk, great cover and entertaining concept, but ultimately saurrrr disappointing and dry.
ִֶָ 𓂃⊹ ִֶָ pre read
i want to finish another book in my readathon which means i need a fun little romance and this cover is saurrr gorgeous 🙂↕️💐
February 16, 2025
What starts as a one-night stand quickly becomes a chaotic, lost-at-sea adventure. Two strangers, together, find their way. Lexi and Zeke meet at a bar. He's younger, twenty-three. She's thirty-one, but that doesn't bother Zeke, and Lexi knows this will only happen once.
They return to his houseboat, 'The Merry Dormouse,' caught up in a night of passion. Lexi thinks Zeke stole the boat from her best friend. Penny, because it's the exact boat she had.
It's the least of their problems. When they wake up, the boat is already lost at sea. Both argue with the other, believing they tied the boat.
Thus begins the eight days lost at sea. When I first started reading Swept Away, I wondered how author Beth O'Leary would make it enjoyable. I wasn't sold on what I knew was inevitable: two attractive people, already physically connected, lost to the mammoth sea. But I kept the faith. I'm a big fan of O'Leary's writing. Having loved The Flatshare and enjoyed The Switch. Not only is O'Leary a great writer, but you learn something from the story without feeling like it's preachy.
The mundane with good writing becomes enchanting. I locked in, cheering on the protagonists as they ventured into murky waters (no pun intended), focused on survival.
As the story continues, we deeply understand the character's personal lives, struggles, goals, and aspirations. Lexi wants more out of life than her current job; she wants to continue to be in her best friend' Penny's life. After all, her mother and she became the only family she had--and Penny's daughter feels like Lexi's own. Lexi feels insecure, always taking care of others. Never herself.
Zeke is struggling with the journals left behind by his dad. A family secret could destroy everything he knows, but the actual reveal in the book left me gapping. When I say I was floored, it's an understatement.
Overall, I enjoyed Swept Away. My only caveat is that the first few days at sea were a bit mundane, but the story picks up quickly.
Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review
4/5 stars
I'm thirty-one. 'Ok, he says, unperturbed. I'm a Pisces.'
They return to his houseboat, 'The Merry Dormouse,' caught up in a night of passion. Lexi thinks Zeke stole the boat from her best friend. Penny, because it's the exact boat she had.
It's the least of their problems. When they wake up, the boat is already lost at sea. Both argue with the other, believing they tied the boat.
Thus begins the eight days lost at sea. When I first started reading Swept Away, I wondered how author Beth O'Leary would make it enjoyable. I wasn't sold on what I knew was inevitable: two attractive people, already physically connected, lost to the mammoth sea. But I kept the faith. I'm a big fan of O'Leary's writing. Having loved The Flatshare and enjoyed The Switch. Not only is O'Leary a great writer, but you learn something from the story without feeling like it's preachy.
The mundane with good writing becomes enchanting. I locked in, cheering on the protagonists as they ventured into murky waters (no pun intended), focused on survival.
You can lose hours to the sea. It shimmers and fractures--I can't find the names for all its shades of blue. Sometimes it seems closer to purple, or gold, or green...
As the story continues, we deeply understand the character's personal lives, struggles, goals, and aspirations. Lexi wants more out of life than her current job; she wants to continue to be in her best friend' Penny's life. After all, her mother and she became the only family she had--and Penny's daughter feels like Lexi's own. Lexi feels insecure, always taking care of others. Never herself.
What's it about? Why can't you take a compliment...
It just feels wrong like it shouldn't be about me.
What shouldn't
Anything
I think it's great that you're there for other people...but being there for other people doesn't mean erasing yourself
Zeke is struggling with the journals left behind by his dad. A family secret could destroy everything he knows, but the actual reveal in the book left me gapping. When I say I was floored, it's an understatement.
Overall, I enjoyed Swept Away. My only caveat is that the first few days at sea were a bit mundane, but the story picks up quickly.
Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review
4/5 stars
Read
June 26, 2025dnf 👎🏻👎🏻
i feel like i’ve been dnfing books so often recently- like this is number 4 in a month, not couting books i got maybe 20 pages into and just put down- because ive been in and out of a slump and i do not want to go back into it😭 i dont think im a fan of beth’s writing or characters. they are just bland and boring, so i dont want to waste my time or potentially get put back in a slump. the cover is so cute LOL so im sad im putting down but im not forcing myself to finish bc of that haha.
after two of her books, i think its safe to say im not a fan of this author and will not be continuing to read what she publishes!
i feel like i’ve been dnfing books so often recently- like this is number 4 in a month, not couting books i got maybe 20 pages into and just put down- because ive been in and out of a slump and i do not want to go back into it😭 i dont think im a fan of beth’s writing or characters. they are just bland and boring, so i dont want to waste my time or potentially get put back in a slump. the cover is so cute LOL so im sad im putting down but im not forcing myself to finish bc of that haha.
after two of her books, i think its safe to say im not a fan of this author and will not be continuing to read what she publishes!
March 25, 2025
I’m so sad to report back and say this one is not worth your time. Weak and repetitive plot, insufferable characters, frustrating development, awkward romance….trust me. Not great.
March 26, 2025
4 stars
I love Beth O’Leary’s writing and unique stories. I was so excited to read ‘Swept Away’ and I’ll be honest. It started a little rocky for me; but the more I read, the more I got into it and the more I enjoyed the story.
Lexi and Zeke had one night together on a houseboat. What neither of them expected was to get stranded on said boat out on sea. Honestly I can’t even imagine this. How frightening. Through this experience, they get to know one another on a different level. They start to fall for one another.
When things start to settle, secrets come out that change everything. There was a bit more drama at the end then I would have liked, but the way it unfolded worked with the story. I was satisfied with the ending and loved both Lexi and Zeke.
I love Beth O’Leary’s writing and unique stories. I was so excited to read ‘Swept Away’ and I’ll be honest. It started a little rocky for me; but the more I read, the more I got into it and the more I enjoyed the story.
Lexi and Zeke had one night together on a houseboat. What neither of them expected was to get stranded on said boat out on sea. Honestly I can’t even imagine this. How frightening. Through this experience, they get to know one another on a different level. They start to fall for one another.
When things start to settle, secrets come out that change everything. There was a bit more drama at the end then I would have liked, but the way it unfolded worked with the story. I was satisfied with the ending and loved both Lexi and Zeke.
April 21, 2025
2.75 stars! To preface I LOVE a forced proximity romance and a survivalist thriller. So a combination of the two genres? Right up my alley. Unfortunately Swept Away didn't meet my expectations. It wasn't a bad book by any means, I just didn't think the execution was great.
Obviously, since it's a romance, the survivalist aspect isn't going to be at the forefront, but I wish it was more "realistic." Some of the plot points/incidents were way too convenient for the sake of moving the story forward. I also didn't love either main character. The FMC had such a complex about being older than the MMC, which got super repetitive. They're both adults, and she really wasn't that much older than him. They didn't have the best chemistry and simultaneously, it felt very insta love. Though on a positive note, while it started a little bit slower, the pacing was solid throughout!
Thank you so much to Berkley Romance for sending me a copy of Swept Away. As always, my reviews are one hundred percent voluntary and all opinions are my own :)
Obviously, since it's a romance, the survivalist aspect isn't going to be at the forefront, but I wish it was more "realistic." Some of the plot points/incidents were way too convenient for the sake of moving the story forward. I also didn't love either main character. The FMC had such a complex about being older than the MMC, which got super repetitive. They're both adults, and she really wasn't that much older than him. They didn't have the best chemistry and simultaneously, it felt very insta love. Though on a positive note, while it started a little bit slower, the pacing was solid throughout!
Thank you so much to Berkley Romance for sending me a copy of Swept Away. As always, my reviews are one hundred percent voluntary and all opinions are my own :)
November 11, 2024
the main character in this book annoyed the LIFE out of me like i think other people will be fine with her but for some reason she frustrated me a lot and i thought the miscommunication in the beginning was stupid
April 3, 2025
3.5 stars - hmmm, it’s not the author’s best or worst - just okay for me. It’s pretty much just what the blurb says, so won’t reiterate that - just a whole lot of the “forced proximity” trope and a reverse age gap too - but I just never quite felt invested in either M.C. and felt there wasn’t enough of a spark in the romance or tension in the sea adventure, but I quite did like the way it all wrapped up.
January 24, 2025
Imagine seeing a hot guy, having a bunch of drinks, and then waking up with an awful hangover, and only to find out that you're stranded at sea in a houseboat. Unrealistic but I can roll with it.
🛥 reverse age gap
🌊 forced proximity
🛥 grumpy x sunshine
🌊 man falls first
🛥 total romance book
The premise sounded amazing. I wasn’t expecting the against all odds and survival story even if it was a bit unrealistic. This was a cute book of you're looking for that feel-good read. I enjoyed The Flatshare and this one, too. Thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Expected release date April 10, 2025
🛥 reverse age gap
🌊 forced proximity
🛥 grumpy x sunshine
🌊 man falls first
🛥 total romance book
The premise sounded amazing. I wasn’t expecting the against all odds and survival story even if it was a bit unrealistic. This was a cute book of you're looking for that feel-good read. I enjoyed The Flatshare and this one, too. Thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Expected release date April 10, 2025
November 8, 2024
This started off really good. A houseboat out at sea with 2 strangers- what’s not to love?
But then it just lacked the excitement that I thought it would have. I also wasn’t really feeling the chemistry between them. I think the premise of this was so promising, but it fell a little flat for me.
It also seemed extremely too long. This could have been about half the length it was. I will try this author again, but this wasn’t my fav.
Thank you to netgalley for this free advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
But then it just lacked the excitement that I thought it would have. I also wasn’t really feeling the chemistry between them. I think the premise of this was so promising, but it fell a little flat for me.
It also seemed extremely too long. This could have been about half the length it was. I will try this author again, but this wasn’t my fav.
Thank you to netgalley for this free advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
January 13, 2025
Well, it's not far down to paradise
At least it's not for me
And if the wind is right you can sail away
And find tranquility . . .
Did you just recently find yourself housebound in the middle of a blizzard with more snow in the forecast? Me too! If you too have spent the week being bored in the house in the house bored and fear you might kill your better half if you have to spend one more second interacting with each other, then perhaps something like a Beth O’Leary book is just what you need.
The story here is what was supposed to be a little May/December one-nighter where Lexi is going to attempt to get a bit of her groove back with Zeke. Things take a drastic turn, however, when the two discover the houseboat they’ve been shakin’ (alllll night lonnnnnnng) has become unmoored and they are now adrift at sea.
Loved it. Don’t care if you don’t I loved it enough for several of us. And look at that cover!!!! Oh. My. Gahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh.
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you, NetGalley!
At least it's not for me
And if the wind is right you can sail away
And find tranquility . . .
Did you just recently find yourself housebound in the middle of a blizzard with more snow in the forecast? Me too! If you too have spent the week being bored in the house in the house bored and fear you might kill your better half if you have to spend one more second interacting with each other, then perhaps something like a Beth O’Leary book is just what you need.
The story here is what was supposed to be a little May/December one-nighter where Lexi is going to attempt to get a bit of her groove back with Zeke. Things take a drastic turn, however, when the two discover the houseboat they’ve been shakin’ (alllll night lonnnnnnng) has become unmoored and they are now adrift at sea.
Loved it. Don’t care if you don’t I loved it enough for several of us. And look at that cover!!!! Oh. My. Gahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh.
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you, NetGalley!
March 25, 2025
Sigh, okay, yes I did like this book, but I'm so torn about how long it was. I guess its the empathy in me that just wanted them to be saved quickly. Anywho. This is a story about how a one night stand turned into a love story after said couple became stranded in the sea on a houseboat. I don't know how much falling in love ill do, if my very survival was on the line; but I digress. They both go through the motions of fear and love as they try to stay sane hoping they will be discovered and rescued. Then a huge reveal threatens to tear them apart!
Thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for this ARC, grateful and humbled 🙏🏾
Solid 3.5 Stars!!!
SWEPT AWAY out April 1st 2025!!!!
Thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for this ARC, grateful and humbled 🙏🏾
Solid 3.5 Stars!!!
SWEPT AWAY out April 1st 2025!!!!
March 23, 2025
The cover is the best part.
December 20, 2024
DNF @50%
I can't do this anymore. What is wrong with those two!! They're isolated in the sea/ocean. He's badly injured, and the wound is INFECTED, and all they think about is, "Wow, s/he is hot I want to bang him/her!!" It's not realistic at all
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚𝕻𝖗𝖊-𝖗𝖊𝖆𝖉˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
Thanks, Berkley Publishing Group and Netgalley for the eARC 🫶🏻
I can't do this anymore. What is wrong with those two!! They're isolated in the sea/ocean. He's badly injured, and the wound is INFECTED, and all they think about is, "Wow, s/he is hot I want to bang him/her!!" It's not realistic at all
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚𝕻𝖗𝖊-𝖗𝖊𝖆𝖉˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
Thanks, Berkley Publishing Group and Netgalley for the eARC 🫶🏻
March 28, 2025
This book is the very definition of my reading taste! It's adventurous, funny, heartwarming, unpredictable, and just the right amount of messy. From the very beginning, I was hooked. What starts as a one-night stand on a houseboat quickly turns into a fight for survival when Lexi and Zeke find themselves literally stranded in the middle of the ocean.
I loved the awkward tension of two strangers who already know each other intimately now being forced into a life-or-death situation. I won’t say how long they were stranded, but with nothing but endless hours together, it’s inevitable that they’d open up about their family, traumas, past regrets, and everything in between. Given the intense circumstances, confined space of the houseboat, and the very palpable chemistry between Lexi and Zeke, I thought the emotional progression felt incredibly real.
I was honestly content with just the survival aspect of this story, but of course, Beth O’Leary wasn’t finished yet. WHEW! The ending completely threw me for a loop, but if you know me, this full-circle conflict is exactly my kind of drama! I absolutely loved it.
(heat level: fade to black)
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I loved the awkward tension of two strangers who already know each other intimately now being forced into a life-or-death situation. I won’t say how long they were stranded, but with nothing but endless hours together, it’s inevitable that they’d open up about their family, traumas, past regrets, and everything in between. Given the intense circumstances, confined space of the houseboat, and the very palpable chemistry between Lexi and Zeke, I thought the emotional progression felt incredibly real.
I was honestly content with just the survival aspect of this story, but of course, Beth O’Leary wasn’t finished yet. WHEW! The ending completely threw me for a loop, but if you know me, this full-circle conflict is exactly my kind of drama! I absolutely loved it.
(heat level: fade to black)
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 3, 2024
{ad pr} Thank you to NetGalley, Random House UK, Cornerstone and Beth O’Leary for this ARC.
Lost at sea with your one-night stand…now THAT is a story I haven’t read before. This book surprised me so much; I expected a romcom but was ended up loving the action, raw emotion, and intense chemistry Zeke and Lexi have between them. I can’t imagine this book was easy to write, but Beth has done an incredible job. I knocked a star as I wasn’t fully gripped at the start, ready to get off the boat with them both. The 2nd half picks up the pace and is full of suspense and depth. It’s definitely one of my favourite Beth O’Leary books!
Lost at sea with your one-night stand…now THAT is a story I haven’t read before. This book surprised me so much; I expected a romcom but was ended up loving the action, raw emotion, and intense chemistry Zeke and Lexi have between them. I can’t imagine this book was easy to write, but Beth has done an incredible job. I knocked a star as I wasn’t fully gripped at the start, ready to get off the boat with them both. The 2nd half picks up the pace and is full of suspense and depth. It’s definitely one of my favourite Beth O’Leary books!
October 1, 2025
**3.5-stars rounded up**
Swept Away is the 2nd-novel that I've tried from beloved Contemporary author, Beth O'Leary. The 1st was The No-Show, which was a bit of a miss for me.
I sort of wrote O'Leary off after that. It just wasn't really a great time for me. However, after seeing the cover of this, call me shallow, but I had to read it. And you know what, I'm really glad that I did.
In this story we're following Lexi and Zeke, who after a one-night stand on a houseboat, end up lost at sea together. For a sea-loving girl like myself, this sounded like a sensational set-up, and that proved to be true.
As they discover what's happened and the reality of the situation sets in, they have a lot of adjustments to make, and a lot of 'getting to know each other' to do. With provisions low, it quickly turns into a game of survival.
I did end up really enjoying this one. While it did take a while for me to feel truly invested, around 50%, I ultimately did come to care about these two characters and their journeys, both as a couple and separately.
I liked that there was an age gap, with her being the older of the two. I also liked getting both of their perspectives so we could see how they were both feeling about their circumstances, and interactions. They definitely had their ups-and-downs.
I would say, it was never really gripping for me though. The plot just sort of meandered along, taking it's time to actually get anywhere and when it did, minus one situation, the stakes never felt high, or pressing.
With this being said though, I do feel like for me, the character work made up for that. I did like how well-fleshed out both Zeke and Lexi were, and that they both had family issues that they were trying to work through.
I also enjoyed their banter, and I feel like because of their dire circumstances on the boat, it was realistic for them to fall for each other as quickly as they did. Bonus points for rescuing an injured seagull that they named Eugene.
At the end of the day, this was an enjoyable read with a satisfying conclusion. I am certainly glad I picked it up, and would recommend it to other Adult Contemporary Readers.
Thank you to the publisher, Berkley, for providing me with a copy to read and review. I would be interested in checking out more of O'Leary's work now.
Swept Away is the 2nd-novel that I've tried from beloved Contemporary author, Beth O'Leary. The 1st was The No-Show, which was a bit of a miss for me.
I sort of wrote O'Leary off after that. It just wasn't really a great time for me. However, after seeing the cover of this, call me shallow, but I had to read it. And you know what, I'm really glad that I did.
In this story we're following Lexi and Zeke, who after a one-night stand on a houseboat, end up lost at sea together. For a sea-loving girl like myself, this sounded like a sensational set-up, and that proved to be true.
As they discover what's happened and the reality of the situation sets in, they have a lot of adjustments to make, and a lot of 'getting to know each other' to do. With provisions low, it quickly turns into a game of survival.
I did end up really enjoying this one. While it did take a while for me to feel truly invested, around 50%, I ultimately did come to care about these two characters and their journeys, both as a couple and separately.
I liked that there was an age gap, with her being the older of the two. I also liked getting both of their perspectives so we could see how they were both feeling about their circumstances, and interactions. They definitely had their ups-and-downs.
I would say, it was never really gripping for me though. The plot just sort of meandered along, taking it's time to actually get anywhere and when it did, minus one situation, the stakes never felt high, or pressing.
With this being said though, I do feel like for me, the character work made up for that. I did like how well-fleshed out both Zeke and Lexi were, and that they both had family issues that they were trying to work through.
I also enjoyed their banter, and I feel like because of their dire circumstances on the boat, it was realistic for them to fall for each other as quickly as they did. Bonus points for rescuing an injured seagull that they named Eugene.
At the end of the day, this was an enjoyable read with a satisfying conclusion. I am certainly glad I picked it up, and would recommend it to other Adult Contemporary Readers.
Thank you to the publisher, Berkley, for providing me with a copy to read and review. I would be interested in checking out more of O'Leary's work now.
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