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London Love #4
Sleep
Mabel Donovan has spent their entire life playing second best. Always the bridesmaid, never the bride. The ex. The one that got rejected… The one that was cheated…with.
But now it’s make or break, because Mabel has to do something. Maybe it’s time to break free and actually start to learn how to live. Although decisions aren’t actually Mabel’s forte, since they can’t even decide what gender they want to be when they get up in the morning.
Jonathan Templar may be one of the most eligible bachelors in London, with his cover of Time Magazine and millions in the bank. He should probably just let his society mother pick him someone from one of her magazines. Introduce him to some highly ambitious person from his parents’ social club.
It’s just…not quite what Jonny wants. Since he can’t even sleep in a bed like normal people. Struggles to get a decent meal inside of him. He just wants…peace. Solitude. Silence.
And love. Maybe he just needs someone to…
No. Nothing. He doesn’t need anything.
Mabel needs to finally be the one.
And Jonny? He’s not actually into…the tall, beautiful creature that…obviously has a giant piece of equipment hiding under that stunning tailored suit. It’s just a friendship. A relationship…of sorts…and love?
Jonny just needs a good night sleep. Period.
But now it’s make or break, because Mabel has to do something. Maybe it’s time to break free and actually start to learn how to live. Although decisions aren’t actually Mabel’s forte, since they can’t even decide what gender they want to be when they get up in the morning.
Jonathan Templar may be one of the most eligible bachelors in London, with his cover of Time Magazine and millions in the bank. He should probably just let his society mother pick him someone from one of her magazines. Introduce him to some highly ambitious person from his parents’ social club.
It’s just…not quite what Jonny wants. Since he can’t even sleep in a bed like normal people. Struggles to get a decent meal inside of him. He just wants…peace. Solitude. Silence.
And love. Maybe he just needs someone to…
No. Nothing. He doesn’t need anything.
Mabel needs to finally be the one.
And Jonny? He’s not actually into…the tall, beautiful creature that…obviously has a giant piece of equipment hiding under that stunning tailored suit. It’s just a friendship. A relationship…of sorts…and love?
Jonny just needs a good night sleep. Period.
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About the author
Sophia Soames
37 books232 followersAuthor of Contemporary M/M romance with all the feels. This is where flawed men discover happy endings, in truly European fairy tales.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
September 2, 2024
Love this
This is a wonderful story of how strangers can be the best person for you. It does take understanding and acceptance and bravery through as shown by Mabel and Jonny.
Please note that if you plan to read this book that chapter 4 is somehow placed between 10 and 11. This may confuse you temporarily. But regardless I absolutely loved this story.
This is a wonderful story of how strangers can be the best person for you. It does take understanding and acceptance and bravery through as shown by Mabel and Jonny.
Please note that if you plan to read this book that chapter 4 is somehow placed between 10 and 11. This may confuse you temporarily. But regardless I absolutely loved this story.
September 3, 2024
5+++ stars, If you haven’t read anything by this author start right now! Every piece of work is a pearl, so precious!!
I think it’s fair to say this author falls in my category of favorite authors.
Jonathan is fifty-one, he’s a CEO and he’s the billionaire from the title above, living in a glass penthouse.
He is completely mesmerized by Mabel, the restaurant manager/waiter next door, by their appearance, their laughter, and witty humor. It makes him warm inside. It’s just the doses of warmth and sunshine he needs on a (preferably) daily basis.
Mabel Donovan, they/them, is forty-three, happy with their body inclusive of their manly equipment, as they say, their heart is fluid! They are divorced and after the ceiling of their apartment came down, looking for a place to stay, and first and foremost looking for a new job. Mabel’s boss Mark is their best friend and also the biggest prick, his partner is Mabel’s ex-husband. Complicated, yes!
Do you think that covers both their personalities and characteristics and part of the story? Wrong! That’s just a tiny little fraction of the picture, there’s so so much more! My heart did all the silly things reading about Mabel and Jonny!!
I was floored by this story, my freaking goodness, completely floored.
I’m hyped to spoil all the beauty of this narrative, I won’t, gosh, that would take away all the joy, all the snark, all the complicated situations, the adoration, the affection, all those wonderful moving moments, the generous love so freely given, all these layers.
Please, please, if you know me and what I love about books, this is it! Read it yourself!
That title! ♥️
I think it’s fair to say this author falls in my category of favorite authors.
Jonathan is fifty-one, he’s a CEO and he’s the billionaire from the title above, living in a glass penthouse.
He is completely mesmerized by Mabel, the restaurant manager/waiter next door, by their appearance, their laughter, and witty humor. It makes him warm inside. It’s just the doses of warmth and sunshine he needs on a (preferably) daily basis.
Mabel Donovan, they/them, is forty-three, happy with their body inclusive of their manly equipment, as they say, their heart is fluid! They are divorced and after the ceiling of their apartment came down, looking for a place to stay, and first and foremost looking for a new job. Mabel’s boss Mark is their best friend and also the biggest prick, his partner is Mabel’s ex-husband. Complicated, yes!
Do you think that covers both their personalities and characteristics and part of the story? Wrong! That’s just a tiny little fraction of the picture, there’s so so much more! My heart did all the silly things reading about Mabel and Jonny!!
I was floored by this story, my freaking goodness, completely floored.
I’m hyped to spoil all the beauty of this narrative, I won’t, gosh, that would take away all the joy, all the snark, all the complicated situations, the adoration, the affection, all those wonderful moving moments, the generous love so freely given, all these layers.
Please, please, if you know me and what I love about books, this is it! Read it yourself!
That title! ♥️
September 2, 2024
All the stars!
Ever since Mabel was first introduced I have been dying for their book. And Sleep did not disappoint. The slow burn, the insta-love. This book had everything. I laughed, I cried, and the happily ever after made me swoon. Don't miss out on Mabel and Jonny. They are what is missing from you life.
Ever since Mabel was first introduced I have been dying for their book. And Sleep did not disappoint. The slow burn, the insta-love. This book had everything. I laughed, I cried, and the happily ever after made me swoon. Don't miss out on Mabel and Jonny. They are what is missing from you life.
Read
September 26, 2024This author is definitely not for me, I only enjoyed snippets of this really long story and I'm surprised at myself for finishing it at all.
I liked Jonny and I liked the relationship that developed with him and Mabel even if I couldn't see the build up that lead to the love because it was overshadowed by everything else going on. It was just too much info for my brain and I think the setting made it harder to grasp.
I liked Jonny and I liked the relationship that developed with him and Mabel even if I couldn't see the build up that lead to the love because it was overshadowed by everything else going on. It was just too much info for my brain and I think the setting made it harder to grasp.
August 31, 2024
Beautifully Brilliant🩷
This author writes books with depth, humour, sensitive subjects and a whole lot of heart. I love the Britishness but it is laced with her Scandinavian roots.
This book drew me in and made me feel, I couldn’t put it down and I fell in love with the complicated Mabs and the ruthless and successful business man Jonny, who, in his private life was insecure, in the closet, inexperienced and lonely.
These two should never have worked, and if it had been left up to Mabel they would never have had the chance, but Jonny was nothing if not determined. From the first time he set eyes on Mabel, in the hotel next door to his penthouse, hungry, tired and in a bad mood, he was captivated. The tall, slim vision wafting around the restaurant, putting smiles on everyone’s faces, wearing orange trousers and oozing efficiency, stirred something in Jonny’s dead heart, something he had never felt before, and he had to have them.
They were both deeply troubled. Mabs had no idea who they would be when they woke up each morning. Whether they would wear a suit or a dress. Jonny just needed to remember to eat and sleep, he couldn’t remember ever being able to just sleep.
Mabel and Jonny were just what the other needed. I loved Jonny’s gentle sense of humour and the way he supported Mabs. I am so glad that Mabs got to tell their story. They got such bad vibes from readers when they appeared in Taste with Finn and Mark but in this book we see that not everything was down to Mabs and Mark had to take his share of the blame, holding onto Mabs just because he needed propping up and was scared to cope on his own, leading on his best friend for years knowing that they loved him and then falling for their ex husband.
There were lots of wonderful side characters and special mention to Mab’s amazing dad and Jenny, Jonny’s PA, best friend and mum to adorable twins.
I strongly recommend you read this beautiful book. I just know it is one of those books that will stay in my head for a long time.
This author writes books with depth, humour, sensitive subjects and a whole lot of heart. I love the Britishness but it is laced with her Scandinavian roots.
This book drew me in and made me feel, I couldn’t put it down and I fell in love with the complicated Mabs and the ruthless and successful business man Jonny, who, in his private life was insecure, in the closet, inexperienced and lonely.
These two should never have worked, and if it had been left up to Mabel they would never have had the chance, but Jonny was nothing if not determined. From the first time he set eyes on Mabel, in the hotel next door to his penthouse, hungry, tired and in a bad mood, he was captivated. The tall, slim vision wafting around the restaurant, putting smiles on everyone’s faces, wearing orange trousers and oozing efficiency, stirred something in Jonny’s dead heart, something he had never felt before, and he had to have them.
They were both deeply troubled. Mabs had no idea who they would be when they woke up each morning. Whether they would wear a suit or a dress. Jonny just needed to remember to eat and sleep, he couldn’t remember ever being able to just sleep.
Mabel and Jonny were just what the other needed. I loved Jonny’s gentle sense of humour and the way he supported Mabs. I am so glad that Mabs got to tell their story. They got such bad vibes from readers when they appeared in Taste with Finn and Mark but in this book we see that not everything was down to Mabs and Mark had to take his share of the blame, holding onto Mabs just because he needed propping up and was scared to cope on his own, leading on his best friend for years knowing that they loved him and then falling for their ex husband.
There were lots of wonderful side characters and special mention to Mab’s amazing dad and Jenny, Jonny’s PA, best friend and mum to adorable twins.
I strongly recommend you read this beautiful book. I just know it is one of those books that will stay in my head for a long time.
September 11, 2024
Mabel & Jonny were so sweet!
I had only finished book one of the London Love series, when I had the chance to be an ARC reader. I did reach out to the author, asking if I should read the series in order, or jump ahead to Sleep. I was told that reading Taste would be helpful, so after I finished Taste, I moved on to Sleep. Yes, it was very helpful!
As someone that struggles with sleeping, Jonny's insomnia hit home. And as for Mabel...Good grief! They were also relatable in a way that you couldn't help but want them to get their own, much deserved HEA. Mabel's journey of learning and knowing their worth is a struggle that not everyone may realize they can relate to, but breaking it down to situations like toxic relationships (check!), under valued at work (check!) are things that most people have experienced in some form.
The other are that Sophia Soames does well in this book is explaining Mabel's genderfluid feelings. The world is a very different, sometimes very scary place when experienced from the viewpoint of someone in the transgender community. While Mabel isn't transgender, and doesn't struggle with body dysmorphic thoughts, there are some very real truths that are expressed in Mabel's story. The world doesn't always know what to think, how to react to these individuals. And the world definitely doesn't understand that just because a person may present themselves in a way that society expects, that doesn't give the right to ask nosey, inappropriate questions. At the end of the day, these people are just that. People. Nothing more, nothing less. Things that aren't even a thought for the rest of society can be a struggle. There's a moment when Mabel has to decide which restroom to use. Most of us can just enter, without a second thought. I liked that Mabel offers these glimpses into a world that many people will never experience.
I had only finished book one of the London Love series, when I had the chance to be an ARC reader. I did reach out to the author, asking if I should read the series in order, or jump ahead to Sleep. I was told that reading Taste would be helpful, so after I finished Taste, I moved on to Sleep. Yes, it was very helpful!
As someone that struggles with sleeping, Jonny's insomnia hit home. And as for Mabel...Good grief! They were also relatable in a way that you couldn't help but want them to get their own, much deserved HEA. Mabel's journey of learning and knowing their worth is a struggle that not everyone may realize they can relate to, but breaking it down to situations like toxic relationships (check!), under valued at work (check!) are things that most people have experienced in some form.
The other are that Sophia Soames does well in this book is explaining Mabel's genderfluid feelings. The world is a very different, sometimes very scary place when experienced from the viewpoint of someone in the transgender community. While Mabel isn't transgender, and doesn't struggle with body dysmorphic thoughts, there are some very real truths that are expressed in Mabel's story. The world doesn't always know what to think, how to react to these individuals. And the world definitely doesn't understand that just because a person may present themselves in a way that society expects, that doesn't give the right to ask nosey, inappropriate questions. At the end of the day, these people are just that. People. Nothing more, nothing less. Things that aren't even a thought for the rest of society can be a struggle. There's a moment when Mabel has to decide which restroom to use. Most of us can just enter, without a second thought. I liked that Mabel offers these glimpses into a world that many people will never experience.
August 31, 2024
A truly beautiful slow burn of two men learning to breathe and cope with life completely different from what they're accustomed to. I have been in love with Mabel since we met them in Taste and have been hoping to see their side and get their truly deserved happily ever after. The way they are written is truly magical where you understand their struggles of not only being themself but also moving on from their current life, that let's be honest is not good for them in any way.
Enter Jonothan, a beautifully broken man coping with the fact changes must be made or he will not be long for this world. From the moment he sets eyes on Mabel, he knows this is his person, and it take Mabel to finally crack for him to step in and help them be free.
This is not exactly an easy read, but it is poetry. The way these men slowly open up and fall in love is magical and will change the way you see things. They love powerful and make the other better by encouraging them to stand up and be free. Words can not express how much I loved this story.
Enter Jonothan, a beautifully broken man coping with the fact changes must be made or he will not be long for this world. From the moment he sets eyes on Mabel, he knows this is his person, and it take Mabel to finally crack for him to step in and help them be free.
This is not exactly an easy read, but it is poetry. The way these men slowly open up and fall in love is magical and will change the way you see things. They love powerful and make the other better by encouraging them to stand up and be free. Words can not express how much I loved this story.
September 9, 2024
Another great love story set in the London Love series. It can be read as an stand alone or you could read it as part of the series. Every book has it own couple of characters looking for their happily ever after. Sometimes we get glimpses of the characters from the other books in the series.
I really enjoyed this book. I loved Mabel and Jonny together. They both grew thoughout the story and you get emotionally invested in them and need to know what happens next. If you like MM/xM stories this is right up your alley! It was my first book about a gender fluid character and I really liked how they were portraied, their struggles and their feelings about being gender fluid. If you like tropes like opposite attract/rich vs poor/unequal social status, the this is also a great book for you!
No cliffhangers and a HEA!
Highly recommend!
I really enjoyed this book. I loved Mabel and Jonny together. They both grew thoughout the story and you get emotionally invested in them and need to know what happens next. If you like MM/xM stories this is right up your alley! It was my first book about a gender fluid character and I really liked how they were portraied, their struggles and their feelings about being gender fluid. If you like tropes like opposite attract/rich vs poor/unequal social status, the this is also a great book for you!
No cliffhangers and a HEA!
Highly recommend!
September 3, 2024
Sophia Soames and her London Love series just get better and better. Seriously, these books are so sweet and lovely, and give all the feels. Her writing draws you in, makes you feel like you really know the characters as distinct people and care about them and their relationships so very much. Sleep is another fabulous addition, Mabel and Jonny are so lovely together, and I loved how they communicated, spoke up about having big feelings even though it felt too soon, and they just felt like grown ups. Seeing Mark and Finn through Mabel's eyes was hard at times, but gave a richness and context to the series that was really wonderful.
September 5, 2024
Jonathan and Mabel begin their story as neighbours of sorts. Mabel works in the restaurant next door to where Jonathan has just moved in to.
They are both complex individuals, with their own flaws and issues, although vastly different people.
This is a slow burn story. I did enjoy the way these men actually communicated with each other. I love Mabel's confidence in themselves and their choices.
The drama with Mabel's best friend Mark marrying Mabel's ex-husband Finn was a bit hard to swallow. I did read in another review that it was hashed out in a previous book, but I hadn't read it, so I felt like I'd definitely missed something. I felt really sad for Mabel.
They are both complex individuals, with their own flaws and issues, although vastly different people.
This is a slow burn story. I did enjoy the way these men actually communicated with each other. I love Mabel's confidence in themselves and their choices.
The drama with Mabel's best friend Mark marrying Mabel's ex-husband Finn was a bit hard to swallow. I did read in another review that it was hashed out in a previous book, but I hadn't read it, so I felt like I'd definitely missed something. I felt really sad for Mabel.
August 31, 2024
Amazing slow burn romance with beautifully broken older MCs. Both had been struggling with what they were doing with their lives for a very long time, which made it really difficult to make fulfilling connections with other people. It was really touching to read about a genderfluid person who was truly happy with their body and attractions. The hearing loss issues were also well portrayed. Another great addition to a truly meaningful series.
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March 13, 2026Mabel Donovan is going through a rough patch. The roof of their tiny and insalubrious London apartment has just caved in, forcing them to live in their parents’ council house in Newbury. That could be a nice change of scenery if their beloved mother’s mind hadn’t been slowly drifting away over the last few years. At least, they have friends. But do they really? Their relationship with their colleague and bestie Mark Quinton, to whom they have devoted years of unwarranted and unilateral love, seems to have taken a wrong turn. Maybe because he has fallen in love with Mabel’s ex-husband Finn Christensen—no happy memories attached to that failure—and the two are about to get married. That Finn is also working in the same hotel doesn’t make the situation easier to bear. Where Mabel thought their job as maître d’hôtel has always been their pride and comfort, it now starts to feel like another dead end. That’s what’s so utterly wrong, maybe—dead ends wherever they look. And that is always a harsh realization at forty-odd years.
There’s just one light flickering at the end of that depressing tunnel. A new regular guest in the hotel restaurant Mabel is working in. Jonathan “Jonny” Templar. Attractive and obscenely rich real estate mogul, fiftyish, shy and assertive at the same time, he seems to have a thing for Mabel. What they don’t know is that Jonny comes with a whole bunch of issues, too. He has recently bought the rooftop apartment in the brand-new building next door and moved in. If he doesn’t like to go to public places, he’s hopelessly incapable of filling his fridge or cook a meal, hence his decision to try out the restaurant nearby. By the way, he hasn’t even got around to unpacking his mattress and is sleeping on his huge couch instead. Not that he’s sleeping, anyway. Insomnia has become his best friend and foe. Too much is going on in his mind. Certainly too much to focus on meeting someone. And yet—the moment he sees that wonderful creature who is Mabel Donovan, he can’t keep his eyes off them.
That’s where the two stand. A fabulous yet unapproachable maître d’ and their regular dinner guest, who doesn’t have a clue of how to engage with most of his fellow humans. Both parties intrigued, but also aware their harmless flirting and talking can’t lead anywhere. Until one of Mabel’s old friends, a drag queen for whom they sometimes sew dresses, gives them the best advice ever: sometimes you need to jump off the cliff.
Oh, I really enjoyed this read! Ever since Mabel made their first impressive appearance in Sophia Soames’s ‘London Love’ series, I was smitten with them. Larger than life, sassy, witty, self-composed, strong, with a heart of gold, they’ve quickly become my favorite nonbinary character in fiction. They’ve only been a secondary character so far, but often stole the scene from anyone else. No wonder that I was really excited to learn they’d be the main character of this book and that I purchased it right away. I wasn’t disappointed, either. Because Mabel is someone we’d all like to have in our lives, I guess. They’re a wonderful friend, maybe even too much for their own good. They’re nice and kind, they’re smart and sometimes silly. I often wanted to shake them and tell them in no uncertain words to tell their pointless love interest Mark to eff off (pardon my French) and let them live.
Of course, I loved both Mark and Finn (they played the main parts in book two of this series, ‘Taste’, which I reviewed earlier) despite and because of their flaws. In this book, however, the perspectives have changed, and I didn’t see and understand them from the inside, but perceived them from Mabel’s and Jonny’s angle. Yes, Mark and Finn are right for each other, and their Happily Ever After was well deserved. But they were and are both toxic for Mabel, and it takes our maître d’ all their courage to open their eyes to that truth. They also need to open up to a possibly fulfilling new encounter.
In ‘Sleep’, I got everything I love about Sophia Soames’s writing. Three-dimensional characters (Mabel’s dad was love on first read for me as was their drag queen friend), people with problems (don’t we all have them?) they decide to tackle at long last, kindness and understanding, no swift and incoherent solutions, no insta-love (still not a huge fan), and no self-induced last-minute drama. Instead, there are adults who more or less slowly learn how to cope with their lives and with reality. Like the other books in the series, this one comes with chapters where each main character alternately tells his/their story in the first person. Thus, the plot has a natural, easy flow, from that fateful first encounter between Jonny and Mabel to the twists and turns that leads them into each other’s arms.
In one word (or rather four), a highly enjoyable read.
DISCLAIMER: Books reviewed on this site were usually provided at no cost by the publisher or author. This book has been provided by the author for the purpose of a review.
There’s just one light flickering at the end of that depressing tunnel. A new regular guest in the hotel restaurant Mabel is working in. Jonathan “Jonny” Templar. Attractive and obscenely rich real estate mogul, fiftyish, shy and assertive at the same time, he seems to have a thing for Mabel. What they don’t know is that Jonny comes with a whole bunch of issues, too. He has recently bought the rooftop apartment in the brand-new building next door and moved in. If he doesn’t like to go to public places, he’s hopelessly incapable of filling his fridge or cook a meal, hence his decision to try out the restaurant nearby. By the way, he hasn’t even got around to unpacking his mattress and is sleeping on his huge couch instead. Not that he’s sleeping, anyway. Insomnia has become his best friend and foe. Too much is going on in his mind. Certainly too much to focus on meeting someone. And yet—the moment he sees that wonderful creature who is Mabel Donovan, he can’t keep his eyes off them.
That’s where the two stand. A fabulous yet unapproachable maître d’ and their regular dinner guest, who doesn’t have a clue of how to engage with most of his fellow humans. Both parties intrigued, but also aware their harmless flirting and talking can’t lead anywhere. Until one of Mabel’s old friends, a drag queen for whom they sometimes sew dresses, gives them the best advice ever: sometimes you need to jump off the cliff.
Oh, I really enjoyed this read! Ever since Mabel made their first impressive appearance in Sophia Soames’s ‘London Love’ series, I was smitten with them. Larger than life, sassy, witty, self-composed, strong, with a heart of gold, they’ve quickly become my favorite nonbinary character in fiction. They’ve only been a secondary character so far, but often stole the scene from anyone else. No wonder that I was really excited to learn they’d be the main character of this book and that I purchased it right away. I wasn’t disappointed, either. Because Mabel is someone we’d all like to have in our lives, I guess. They’re a wonderful friend, maybe even too much for their own good. They’re nice and kind, they’re smart and sometimes silly. I often wanted to shake them and tell them in no uncertain words to tell their pointless love interest Mark to eff off (pardon my French) and let them live.
Of course, I loved both Mark and Finn (they played the main parts in book two of this series, ‘Taste’, which I reviewed earlier) despite and because of their flaws. In this book, however, the perspectives have changed, and I didn’t see and understand them from the inside, but perceived them from Mabel’s and Jonny’s angle. Yes, Mark and Finn are right for each other, and their Happily Ever After was well deserved. But they were and are both toxic for Mabel, and it takes our maître d’ all their courage to open their eyes to that truth. They also need to open up to a possibly fulfilling new encounter.
In ‘Sleep’, I got everything I love about Sophia Soames’s writing. Three-dimensional characters (Mabel’s dad was love on first read for me as was their drag queen friend), people with problems (don’t we all have them?) they decide to tackle at long last, kindness and understanding, no swift and incoherent solutions, no insta-love (still not a huge fan), and no self-induced last-minute drama. Instead, there are adults who more or less slowly learn how to cope with their lives and with reality. Like the other books in the series, this one comes with chapters where each main character alternately tells his/their story in the first person. Thus, the plot has a natural, easy flow, from that fateful first encounter between Jonny and Mabel to the twists and turns that leads them into each other’s arms.
In one word (or rather four), a highly enjoyable read.
DISCLAIMER: Books reviewed on this site were usually provided at no cost by the publisher or author. This book has been provided by the author for the purpose of a review.
November 15, 2024
This novel is a delightful, heartwarming read that captivated me from start to finish. True to the unique style of Sophia, the story is quirky, endearing, and centres around two men whose lives have been shaped by heartache and longing. At the heart of the story is Mabel, a man full of love yet unlucky in his relationships. Having married and divorced young, he’s carried a long-standing love for his best friend—who is now married to Mabel's ex-husband. Compounding his troubles, Mabel finds himself trapped in a job that no longer brings him any joy.
Then there's Jonathan, a successful businessman burdened by isolation and poor health. He struggles with sleepless nights, a neglected diet, and an empty, lonely life. When Jonathan moves close to the hotel where Mabel works, he’s immediately captivated by Mabel's charm and spirit. Their connection is undeniable, and when Mabel finally decides to leave his job, Jonathan seizes the opportunity, inviting him to stay at his place.
As they navigate their growing closeness, Mabel becomes determined to help Jonathan improve his health, while Jonathan makes it his mission to show Mabel his true worth. What begins as companionship deepens, slowly transforming into a beautiful and genuine romance.
I highly recommend checking out the other books in this series 💛
Then there's Jonathan, a successful businessman burdened by isolation and poor health. He struggles with sleepless nights, a neglected diet, and an empty, lonely life. When Jonathan moves close to the hotel where Mabel works, he’s immediately captivated by Mabel's charm and spirit. Their connection is undeniable, and when Mabel finally decides to leave his job, Jonathan seizes the opportunity, inviting him to stay at his place.
As they navigate their growing closeness, Mabel becomes determined to help Jonathan improve his health, while Jonathan makes it his mission to show Mabel his true worth. What begins as companionship deepens, slowly transforming into a beautiful and genuine romance.
I highly recommend checking out the other books in this series 💛
November 24, 2025
Goodbyes & Moving On
Mabel Donovan has been working at The Clouds Hotel with Mark and Finn for years. Each worked in different sections. They’ve had a very complicated history together, Mabel was married to Finn for a couple of years and had a very acrimonious divorce two years later. Then Mabel befriended Mark and fell in love with him but it was unrequited. Mark knew and took advantage of this in many ways during their working together in Clouds. The three of them remained on friendly terms.
When Mark hooked up with Finley, and became engaged, Mabel expected to attend the wedding and was shocked and hurt when they sneaked off one week end without a word to anyone else.
This was just the extra push that Mabel needed to make huge changes in their life that brought further surprises and opportunities their way.
I hope this isn’t t the last we see of The Clouds in the London Love Series.
I loved Mabel and was so happy to see how they were rewarded once the blinkers fell off and they saw Mark’s true colours. It was delightful watching how they found their own person and how they were so appreciated by them.
It’s important to read this series in numerical order so as not to spoil the later books in the series.
Mabel Donovan has been working at The Clouds Hotel with Mark and Finn for years. Each worked in different sections. They’ve had a very complicated history together, Mabel was married to Finn for a couple of years and had a very acrimonious divorce two years later. Then Mabel befriended Mark and fell in love with him but it was unrequited. Mark knew and took advantage of this in many ways during their working together in Clouds. The three of them remained on friendly terms.
When Mark hooked up with Finley, and became engaged, Mabel expected to attend the wedding and was shocked and hurt when they sneaked off one week end without a word to anyone else.
This was just the extra push that Mabel needed to make huge changes in their life that brought further surprises and opportunities their way.
I hope this isn’t t the last we see of The Clouds in the London Love Series.
I loved Mabel and was so happy to see how they were rewarded once the blinkers fell off and they saw Mark’s true colours. It was delightful watching how they found their own person and how they were so appreciated by them.
It’s important to read this series in numerical order so as not to spoil the later books in the series.
December 18, 2024
NOTE: This book has also been published on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Mabel Donovan is going through a rough patch. The roof of their tiny and insalubrious London apartment has just caved in, forcing them to live in their parents’ council house in Newbury. That could be a nice change of scenery if their beloved mother’s mind hadn’t been slowly drifting away over the last years. At least, they have friends. But do they really? Their relationship with their colleague and bestie Mark Quinton, to whom they have devoted years of unwarranted and unilateral love, seems to have taken a wrong turn. Maybe because he has fallen in love with Mabel’s ex-husband Finn Christensen—no happy memories attached to that failure—and the two are about to get married. That Finn is also working in the same hotel doesn’t make the situation easier to bear. Where Mabel thought their job as maitre d’hotel has always been their pride and comfort, it now starts to feel like another dead end. That’s what’s so utterly wrong, maybe—dead ends wherever they look. And that is always a harsh realisation at forty-odd years.
There’s just one light flickering at the end of that depressing tunnel. A new regular guest in the hotel restaurant Mabel is working in. Jonathan “Jonny” Templar. Attractive and obscenely rich real estate mogul, fiftyish, shy and assertive at the same time, he seems to have a thing for Mabel. What they don’t know is that Jonny comes with a whole bunch of issues, too. He has recently bought the rooftop apartment in the brand-new building next door and moved in. If he doesn’t like to go to public places, he’s hopelessly incapable of filling his fridge or cook a meal, hence his decision to try out the restaurant nearby. By the way, he hasn’t even got around to unpacking his mattress and is sleeping on his huge couch instead. Not that he’s sleeping, anyway. Insomnia has become his best friend and foe. Too much is going on in his mind. Certainly too much to focus on meeting someone. And yet—the moment he sees that wonderful creature that is Mabel Donovan, he can’t keep his eyes off them.
That’s where the two stand. A fabulous yet unapproachable maitre d’ and their regular dinner guest, who doesn’t have a clue of how to engage with most of his fellow humans. Both parties intrigued, but also aware their harmless flirting and talking can’t lead anywhere. Until one of Mabel’s old friends, a drag queen for whom they sometimes sew dresses, gives them the best advice ever: sometimes you need to jump off the cliff.
Oh, I really enjoyed this read! Ever since Mabel made their first impressive appearance in Sophia Soames’s "London Love" series, I was smitten with them. Larger than life, sassy, witty, self-composed, strong, with a heart of gold, they’ve quickly become my favourite non-binary character in fiction. They’ve only been a secondary character so far, but often stole the scene from anyone else. No wonder that I was really excited to learn they’d be the main character of this book and that I purchased it right away. I wasn’t disappointed, either. Because Mabel is someone we’d all like to have in our lives, I guess. They’re a wonderful friend, maybe even too much for their own good. They’re nice and kind, they’re smart and sometimes silly. I often wanted to shake them and tell them in no uncertain words to tell their pointless love-interest Mark to eff off (pardon my French) and let them live.
Of course, I loved both Mark and Finn (they played the main parts in book 2 of this series, "Taste") despite and because of their flaws. In this book, however, the perspectives have changed, and I didn’t see and understand them from the inside, but perceived them from Mabel’s and Jonny’s angle. Yes, Mark and Finn are right for each other, and their Happily Ever After was well deserved. But they were and are both toxic for Mabel, and it takes our maitre d’ all their courage to open their eyes to that truth. They also need to open up to a possibly fulfilling new encounter.
In "Sleep," I got everything I love about Sophia Soames’s writing. Three-dimensional characters (Mabel’s dad was love on first read for me as was their drag queen friend), people with problems (don’t we all have them?) they decide to tackle at long last, kindness and understanding, no swift and incoherent solutions, no insta-love (still not a huge fan), and no self-induced last-minute drama. Instead, there are adults who more or less slowly learn how to cope with their lives and with reality. Like the other books in the series, this one comes with chapters where each main character alternately tells his/their story in the first person. Thus, the plot has a natural, easy flow, from that fateful first encounter between Jonny and Mabel to the twists and turns that leads them into each other’s arms.
In one word (or rather four), a highly enjoyable read.
Mabel Donovan is going through a rough patch. The roof of their tiny and insalubrious London apartment has just caved in, forcing them to live in their parents’ council house in Newbury. That could be a nice change of scenery if their beloved mother’s mind hadn’t been slowly drifting away over the last years. At least, they have friends. But do they really? Their relationship with their colleague and bestie Mark Quinton, to whom they have devoted years of unwarranted and unilateral love, seems to have taken a wrong turn. Maybe because he has fallen in love with Mabel’s ex-husband Finn Christensen—no happy memories attached to that failure—and the two are about to get married. That Finn is also working in the same hotel doesn’t make the situation easier to bear. Where Mabel thought their job as maitre d’hotel has always been their pride and comfort, it now starts to feel like another dead end. That’s what’s so utterly wrong, maybe—dead ends wherever they look. And that is always a harsh realisation at forty-odd years.
There’s just one light flickering at the end of that depressing tunnel. A new regular guest in the hotel restaurant Mabel is working in. Jonathan “Jonny” Templar. Attractive and obscenely rich real estate mogul, fiftyish, shy and assertive at the same time, he seems to have a thing for Mabel. What they don’t know is that Jonny comes with a whole bunch of issues, too. He has recently bought the rooftop apartment in the brand-new building next door and moved in. If he doesn’t like to go to public places, he’s hopelessly incapable of filling his fridge or cook a meal, hence his decision to try out the restaurant nearby. By the way, he hasn’t even got around to unpacking his mattress and is sleeping on his huge couch instead. Not that he’s sleeping, anyway. Insomnia has become his best friend and foe. Too much is going on in his mind. Certainly too much to focus on meeting someone. And yet—the moment he sees that wonderful creature that is Mabel Donovan, he can’t keep his eyes off them.
That’s where the two stand. A fabulous yet unapproachable maitre d’ and their regular dinner guest, who doesn’t have a clue of how to engage with most of his fellow humans. Both parties intrigued, but also aware their harmless flirting and talking can’t lead anywhere. Until one of Mabel’s old friends, a drag queen for whom they sometimes sew dresses, gives them the best advice ever: sometimes you need to jump off the cliff.
Oh, I really enjoyed this read! Ever since Mabel made their first impressive appearance in Sophia Soames’s "London Love" series, I was smitten with them. Larger than life, sassy, witty, self-composed, strong, with a heart of gold, they’ve quickly become my favourite non-binary character in fiction. They’ve only been a secondary character so far, but often stole the scene from anyone else. No wonder that I was really excited to learn they’d be the main character of this book and that I purchased it right away. I wasn’t disappointed, either. Because Mabel is someone we’d all like to have in our lives, I guess. They’re a wonderful friend, maybe even too much for their own good. They’re nice and kind, they’re smart and sometimes silly. I often wanted to shake them and tell them in no uncertain words to tell their pointless love-interest Mark to eff off (pardon my French) and let them live.
Of course, I loved both Mark and Finn (they played the main parts in book 2 of this series, "Taste") despite and because of their flaws. In this book, however, the perspectives have changed, and I didn’t see and understand them from the inside, but perceived them from Mabel’s and Jonny’s angle. Yes, Mark and Finn are right for each other, and their Happily Ever After was well deserved. But they were and are both toxic for Mabel, and it takes our maitre d’ all their courage to open their eyes to that truth. They also need to open up to a possibly fulfilling new encounter.
In "Sleep," I got everything I love about Sophia Soames’s writing. Three-dimensional characters (Mabel’s dad was love on first read for me as was their drag queen friend), people with problems (don’t we all have them?) they decide to tackle at long last, kindness and understanding, no swift and incoherent solutions, no insta-love (still not a huge fan), and no self-induced last-minute drama. Instead, there are adults who more or less slowly learn how to cope with their lives and with reality. Like the other books in the series, this one comes with chapters where each main character alternately tells his/their story in the first person. Thus, the plot has a natural, easy flow, from that fateful first encounter between Jonny and Mabel to the twists and turns that leads them into each other’s arms.
In one word (or rather four), a highly enjoyable read.
September 3, 2024
This book is a marvel, and Sophia is a very astute, genius storyteller. She breaks your heart, rearranges parts of your brain, and then, using pinpointed words, staples pieces together…
This book is like a piece of art you want to study and then discover that it is made of thousands of invisible strings masquerading as words, the little nuances unveiling the lives of two people who didn’t live, sleep, or feel happy for the longest time. Even the little drawings of clouds inserted between chapters are very whimsical and artsy and just fit so perfectly with the theme of the story of two lonely souls that find redemption in each other.
Mabel is exceptionally unique, so different in the way they present themself to the world. They learned how to hide their feelings behind the smile, they devoted their life to taking care of everyone, pleasing every person, and denying themself happiness at the same time. They felt stuck in a rut, surviving in a decrepit flat, working in a place that was draining their soul, never allowing themself to be selfish. They kept dreaming of finding this special one someday, the one that would finally put them first, sweep them off their feet, and take care of them for a change. They feel disadvantaged, of course they would, after being for half of their life in love with the man who manipulated them, and used their feelings to fasten them so tight that they were unable to breathe. Mark is a man-child, he kind of looks like unreliable, immature, and egoistic, and he is behaving appallingly. But I still can’t bring myself to hate him, and even when Mabel think they do, in reality, their heart is very forgiving.
You will meet so many wonderful, colourful characters in this book. Jenny, the precious jewel who manages to wrangle the job as Jonny’s PA, full-time parent of two toddlers, and ultimate friend of her boss.
Mabel’s Dad is a quirky and caring father who lovingly calls his son an idiot but will fight for his happiness against all the odds.
Mrs. Templar, a formidable force of strong opinions, brash judgments, and unconditional love for her son.
And then we have Jonathan… a brilliant businessman, featured in magazines, the notorious bachelor, and the owner of a coveted penthouse in the heart of London.
But wait, when you look behind the curtain of the coolheaded, prominent boss, you find a confused, conflicted man, who is not closeted, he just never had a reason to come out until he met Mabel, his Pickle.
This phrase from the book, is Jonny in a nutshell: “I used to think this was my kingdom. I was on top of it, and I could just stand here, safe from the rest of the world, looking down on people living while I was just existing up here in my glass tower.”
The whirlwind build of their unusual relationship, the speed with which they recognized that they belong together, and need each other- you just don’t get a chance to inhale, for how fast it all happened.
Jonny is pure-hearted, honest, and straight to the point, but shy when it comes to showing his soft underside. This man is so dear, and I’m so happy that Mabel understood and accepted him as he is- no improvement needed. Just shower him with love, care, and tenderness and he will blossom.
This book is all about trusting in your feelings, letting go of the past, and building the life they deserve.
Sophia outdid herself, she created the unforgettable ending for the series; or maybe it’s not the end after all?..
This book is like a piece of art you want to study and then discover that it is made of thousands of invisible strings masquerading as words, the little nuances unveiling the lives of two people who didn’t live, sleep, or feel happy for the longest time. Even the little drawings of clouds inserted between chapters are very whimsical and artsy and just fit so perfectly with the theme of the story of two lonely souls that find redemption in each other.
Mabel is exceptionally unique, so different in the way they present themself to the world. They learned how to hide their feelings behind the smile, they devoted their life to taking care of everyone, pleasing every person, and denying themself happiness at the same time. They felt stuck in a rut, surviving in a decrepit flat, working in a place that was draining their soul, never allowing themself to be selfish. They kept dreaming of finding this special one someday, the one that would finally put them first, sweep them off their feet, and take care of them for a change. They feel disadvantaged, of course they would, after being for half of their life in love with the man who manipulated them, and used their feelings to fasten them so tight that they were unable to breathe. Mark is a man-child, he kind of looks like unreliable, immature, and egoistic, and he is behaving appallingly. But I still can’t bring myself to hate him, and even when Mabel think they do, in reality, their heart is very forgiving.
You will meet so many wonderful, colourful characters in this book. Jenny, the precious jewel who manages to wrangle the job as Jonny’s PA, full-time parent of two toddlers, and ultimate friend of her boss.
Mabel’s Dad is a quirky and caring father who lovingly calls his son an idiot but will fight for his happiness against all the odds.
Mrs. Templar, a formidable force of strong opinions, brash judgments, and unconditional love for her son.
And then we have Jonathan… a brilliant businessman, featured in magazines, the notorious bachelor, and the owner of a coveted penthouse in the heart of London.
But wait, when you look behind the curtain of the coolheaded, prominent boss, you find a confused, conflicted man, who is not closeted, he just never had a reason to come out until he met Mabel, his Pickle.
This phrase from the book, is Jonny in a nutshell: “I used to think this was my kingdom. I was on top of it, and I could just stand here, safe from the rest of the world, looking down on people living while I was just existing up here in my glass tower.”
The whirlwind build of their unusual relationship, the speed with which they recognized that they belong together, and need each other- you just don’t get a chance to inhale, for how fast it all happened.
Jonny is pure-hearted, honest, and straight to the point, but shy when it comes to showing his soft underside. This man is so dear, and I’m so happy that Mabel understood and accepted him as he is- no improvement needed. Just shower him with love, care, and tenderness and he will blossom.
This book is all about trusting in your feelings, letting go of the past, and building the life they deserve.
Sophia outdid herself, she created the unforgettable ending for the series; or maybe it’s not the end after all?..
September 1, 2024
I often enjoy Sophia Soames' writing. It can be beautiful the way a stark winter landscape is beautiful. It often seems to be surrounded by and infused with a light layer of melancholy that is not so heavy as to ruin the enjoyment of the experience. It reminds me of that, precise, emotional, slightly moody, nature of Scandinavian literature. Once I read Soames' bio, I realized that she originally hailed from Scandinavia. So, that makes sense. This book was no different than the others I have read in that aspect. The mood was there.
Unfortunately, what was also there were too many words. This was one of those stories that would've benefited from being un. The author could've cut at least 50 pages and I would've enjoyed the story more. I ended up thinking this book would've been a perfect novella. It reached point to where, once the characters establish their relationship and their challenges, and the way they were going to overcome those challenges, the story started meandering down this path:"and then they did this, and then they did this, and then they did that, and then they did this. " It didn't feel so much as filler but not understanding what was enhancing and what was detracting from the development of my relationship, as a reader, with the characters.
One of my primary complaints with this book is something that I understand may very well be more personal perspective and outlook on life, but I think it is valid for enough people to mention it. The majority of the book is centered around Mabel understanding how much they have allowed their relationship with their best friend Mark, to hold them back and harm them in quite a few obvious, selfish, cruel ways. One of the ways that was clear to me, as an outside observer, was the betrayal of a best friend of 20 years developing a relationship with, and then marrying Mabel's ex-husband. But, that wasn't explicitly stated as one of the betrayals, it was mind-boggling and nagged at the back and forefront of my mind throughout my reading of the book. It definitely was a distraction because I kept waiting for that to be mentioned, explicitly, along with the other, smaller, betrayals.
Overall, I'm giving it three stars because it was enjoyable, and I really liked Mabel and I really liked Jonathan and I liked them together.
There were quite a few typos and extra and missing words. I hope those are cleaned up in next book. It would make the experience more enjoyable. Hope this review helps you, whether it enhances your enjoyment of this book, or if it helps you avoid a book that would drive you crazy and be a waste of your time.
Unfortunately, what was also there were too many words. This was one of those stories that would've benefited from being un. The author could've cut at least 50 pages and I would've enjoyed the story more. I ended up thinking this book would've been a perfect novella. It reached point to where, once the characters establish their relationship and their challenges, and the way they were going to overcome those challenges, the story started meandering down this path:"and then they did this, and then they did this, and then they did that, and then they did this. " It didn't feel so much as filler but not understanding what was enhancing and what was detracting from the development of my relationship, as a reader, with the characters.
One of my primary complaints with this book is something that I understand may very well be more personal perspective and outlook on life, but I think it is valid for enough people to mention it. The majority of the book is centered around Mabel understanding how much they have allowed their relationship with their best friend Mark, to hold them back and harm them in quite a few obvious, selfish, cruel ways. One of the ways that was clear to me, as an outside observer, was the betrayal of a best friend of 20 years developing a relationship with, and then marrying Mabel's ex-husband. But, that wasn't explicitly stated as one of the betrayals, it was mind-boggling and nagged at the back and forefront of my mind throughout my reading of the book. It definitely was a distraction because I kept waiting for that to be mentioned, explicitly, along with the other, smaller, betrayals.
Overall, I'm giving it three stars because it was enjoyable, and I really liked Mabel and I really liked Jonathan and I liked them together.
There were quite a few typos and extra and missing words. I hope those are cleaned up in next book. It would make the experience more enjoyable. Hope this review helps you, whether it enhances your enjoyment of this book, or if it helps you avoid a book that would drive you crazy and be a waste of your time.
September 2, 2024
I’ve been fascinated by Mabel throughout the superb London Love series by Sophia Soames. In Sleep, we get their story and POV, and it’s amazing!
Two lost, lonely souls who couldn’t have been more different. But they worked in spite of it, filling in needs the other wasn’t even ready to admit they had. This is a delicious, delicate slow burn with people wanting to be seen. To be chosen. To be told they matter.
Even if they can’t help getting in their own way with the lies they told themselves…
“We weren’t friends. We were traumatized idiots.”
Mabel was the sunshiny caretaker at work, but prickly and untrusting in personal relationships.
Jonny, a millionaire property developer uncomfortable in his own skin and prone to insomnia.
Things I loved:
☁️Mabel’s happiness with their body and gender fluidity. The rest of their life may have been a mess, but they were good with this.
☁️Mabel is 42, Jonny a stressed out 51. I appreciated that even though the bloom of youth is gone they both get the epic love they deserve.
☁️There’s a difficult discussion about how you can love someone and need to walk away from their toxic friendship for your own mental health. Fact.
☁️Jonny’s mom. Mabel’s dad. Jenny the PA. Fierce, relatable, and real.
☁️Jonny and Mabel as babysitters!
☁️Daring to dive off a cliff for the dream of something better.
☁️The passing comment about being gentle with Lysander St. Cloud in an upcoming meeting. IYKYK.
☁️Mabel finally being recognized for her work talent and getting their professional confidence back was so satisfying.
☁️Jonny telling Mabel he wasn’t a battle they needed to fight. Swoon…
There’s laughter, anger, joy, and grief. Jonny and Mabel’s journey to happiness is so true and beautifully written. I adored both MCs and the quirks that made them so compellingly unique.
Imperfect people bumbling through life, working on their hugging technique, and getting the joyful life, love, and friendship they deserve.
I love Sophia’s writing and this book is no exception!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
(If you haven’t already, check out the rest of the series. So very, very good!)
Two lost, lonely souls who couldn’t have been more different. But they worked in spite of it, filling in needs the other wasn’t even ready to admit they had. This is a delicious, delicate slow burn with people wanting to be seen. To be chosen. To be told they matter.
Even if they can’t help getting in their own way with the lies they told themselves…
“We weren’t friends. We were traumatized idiots.”
Mabel was the sunshiny caretaker at work, but prickly and untrusting in personal relationships.
Jonny, a millionaire property developer uncomfortable in his own skin and prone to insomnia.
Things I loved:
☁️Mabel’s happiness with their body and gender fluidity. The rest of their life may have been a mess, but they were good with this.
☁️Mabel is 42, Jonny a stressed out 51. I appreciated that even though the bloom of youth is gone they both get the epic love they deserve.
☁️There’s a difficult discussion about how you can love someone and need to walk away from their toxic friendship for your own mental health. Fact.
☁️Jonny’s mom. Mabel’s dad. Jenny the PA. Fierce, relatable, and real.
☁️Jonny and Mabel as babysitters!
☁️Daring to dive off a cliff for the dream of something better.
☁️The passing comment about being gentle with Lysander St. Cloud in an upcoming meeting. IYKYK.
☁️Mabel finally being recognized for her work talent and getting their professional confidence back was so satisfying.
☁️Jonny telling Mabel he wasn’t a battle they needed to fight. Swoon…
There’s laughter, anger, joy, and grief. Jonny and Mabel’s journey to happiness is so true and beautifully written. I adored both MCs and the quirks that made them so compellingly unique.
Imperfect people bumbling through life, working on their hugging technique, and getting the joyful life, love, and friendship they deserve.
I love Sophia’s writing and this book is no exception!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
(If you haven’t already, check out the rest of the series. So very, very good!)
September 4, 2024
I'm a mad fan of Sophia Soames work, always edgy, quirky and real, it really hits the spot. Sleep is both heartwarming and inspirational, about a connection between two lost souls, and the healing that can come from unexpected friendships. Mabel and Jonny are two individuals who are struggling to find their place in the world. When they come across one another, a totally unlikely bond builds between them, they are so different. It was so sweet how they unintentionally offered each other support and companionship during a time when they both needed it. Somehow, together each helps the other to overcome their insecurities and develop as a couple. Sophia 's writing is so tender and captures the emotional depth of Mabel and Jonny, and the beauty of their connection. The story is filled with moments of hope, heartbreak for both of them, and ultimately, redemption for Mabel. Mark and Finn, from Taste, (the previous book), feature in Mabel's story, and it becomes even clearer what a toxic trio they were in the last book. Mark especially doesn't come out of this well, he has been so manipulative where Mabel was concerned, and had deliberately held them back for his own gain. Although there is a lovely ending for Mabel and Jonny; it is also a bittersweet one, in some ways, for Mabel and her close friends.
This could be read as a standalone, but I personally thinks it best to read the previous book (Taste), first, as it relates a great deal to what is happening to Mabel in this one.
This could be read as a standalone, but I personally thinks it best to read the previous book (Taste), first, as it relates a great deal to what is happening to Mabel in this one.
September 4, 2024
Review on both GR and BB. Not yet published on Amazon 😊
I'm a mad fan of Sophia Soames work, always edgy, quirky and real, it really hits the spot. Sleep is both heartwarming and inspirational, about a connection between two lost souls, and the healing that can come from unexpected friendships. Mabel and Jonny are two individuals who are struggling to find their place in the world. When they come across one another, a totally unlikely bond builds between them, they are so different. It was so sweet how they unintentionally offered each other support and companionship during a time when they both needed it. Somehow, together each helps the other to overcome their insecurities and develop as a couple. Sophia 's writing is so tender and captures the emotional depth of Mabel and Jonny, and the beauty of their connection. The story is filled with moments of hope, heartbreak for both of them, and ultimately, redemption for Mabel. Mark and Finn, from Taste, (the previous book), feature in Mabel's story, and it becomes even clearer what a toxic trio they were in the last book. Mark especially doesn't come out of this well, he has been so manipulative where Mabel was concerned, and had deliberately held them back for his own gain. Although there is a lovely ending for Mabel and Jonny; it is also a bittersweet one, in some ways, for Mabel and their close friends.
This could be read as a standalone, but I personally thinks it best to read the previous book (Taste), first, as it relates a great deal to what is happening to Mabel in this one.
I'm a mad fan of Sophia Soames work, always edgy, quirky and real, it really hits the spot. Sleep is both heartwarming and inspirational, about a connection between two lost souls, and the healing that can come from unexpected friendships. Mabel and Jonny are two individuals who are struggling to find their place in the world. When they come across one another, a totally unlikely bond builds between them, they are so different. It was so sweet how they unintentionally offered each other support and companionship during a time when they both needed it. Somehow, together each helps the other to overcome their insecurities and develop as a couple. Sophia 's writing is so tender and captures the emotional depth of Mabel and Jonny, and the beauty of their connection. The story is filled with moments of hope, heartbreak for both of them, and ultimately, redemption for Mabel. Mark and Finn, from Taste, (the previous book), feature in Mabel's story, and it becomes even clearer what a toxic trio they were in the last book. Mark especially doesn't come out of this well, he has been so manipulative where Mabel was concerned, and had deliberately held them back for his own gain. Although there is a lovely ending for Mabel and Jonny; it is also a bittersweet one, in some ways, for Mabel and their close friends.
This could be read as a standalone, but I personally thinks it best to read the previous book (Taste), first, as it relates a great deal to what is happening to Mabel in this one.
August 30, 2024
Amazing slow-burn, hurt/comfort romance with well-rounded, mature MCs.
Mabel and Jonny have completely captured my heart! I really enjoyed the storytelling and the way the author took the time to develop the characters and the growth of their relationship.
They are both a bit of a mess, struggling with different things, and prone to (internal) rambling, but there’s a certain beauty, hope, and comfort that shines through when they are together. I adored them! The happiness, the comfort, and the inner peace they feel in each other’s presence, the hugs, the soft first kisses … I just loved all of it! There is a wonderful element of care in their intimate moments that is incredibly endearing. I also really enjoyed the humor in the story. Mabel’s internal dialogue is quite snarky and funny, and they and Jonny often have a really fun back-and-forth banter going.
Mabel was an important secondary character in the previous books in the series, so it was great to see them finally get their own story. They felt familiar, but we still learned new things about them in SLEEP, which was really nice. I also loved Mabel’s father so much!! He’s so funny and knows his kid so well.
Jonny has his own demons to fight and is an intriguing, lovable MC—a really great match for Mabel. I love how hard he falls for them.
I loved reading a romance with a nonbinary MC and the way the author wrote Mabel’s personal journey in that regard.
Mabel and Jonny have completely captured my heart! I really enjoyed the storytelling and the way the author took the time to develop the characters and the growth of their relationship.
They are both a bit of a mess, struggling with different things, and prone to (internal) rambling, but there’s a certain beauty, hope, and comfort that shines through when they are together. I adored them! The happiness, the comfort, and the inner peace they feel in each other’s presence, the hugs, the soft first kisses … I just loved all of it! There is a wonderful element of care in their intimate moments that is incredibly endearing. I also really enjoyed the humor in the story. Mabel’s internal dialogue is quite snarky and funny, and they and Jonny often have a really fun back-and-forth banter going.
Mabel was an important secondary character in the previous books in the series, so it was great to see them finally get their own story. They felt familiar, but we still learned new things about them in SLEEP, which was really nice. I also loved Mabel’s father so much!! He’s so funny and knows his kid so well.
Jonny has his own demons to fight and is an intriguing, lovable MC—a really great match for Mabel. I love how hard he falls for them.
I loved reading a romance with a nonbinary MC and the way the author wrote Mabel’s personal journey in that regard.
September 18, 2024
Sophia Soames has recently become one of my favorite authors. She writes books with depth and great stories, while often funny books!
This book is not an exception to this.
Mabel is fluid in their sexuality, 4o something, living more or less the same life the lived when they were in their 20's. Same job, same crush, no money to show for working for years at the restaurant theu and their best friend is running. They want to make dresses, but is still a host/waiter at the restaurant their friend is running.
Jonny has worked for years at the family business and this has made him a very wealthy man. The problem is that he can't take care of himself. He realizes he needs to change things, he moves in to a new apartment/flat without hiring any help. His friend and PA does know him, so she has set up with the restaurant across the street, that he can go there to eat at least one meal per day. The first time he sees Mabel, he is almost awestruck, Mabel is a beautiful creature that lights up the room.
This book is a beautiful story about two "lost" people finding themselves and also each other in the end. I love how the author takes us on a journey where we get to see beneath the surface of the 2 MC's and get a better understanding of who they are and what make them tick. Her books, and this too, gives us more insight in the MC's and their inner lives, than many other books do. This is a quality I love.
I highly recommend this book!
This book is not an exception to this.
Mabel is fluid in their sexuality, 4o something, living more or less the same life the lived when they were in their 20's. Same job, same crush, no money to show for working for years at the restaurant theu and their best friend is running. They want to make dresses, but is still a host/waiter at the restaurant their friend is running.
Jonny has worked for years at the family business and this has made him a very wealthy man. The problem is that he can't take care of himself. He realizes he needs to change things, he moves in to a new apartment/flat without hiring any help. His friend and PA does know him, so she has set up with the restaurant across the street, that he can go there to eat at least one meal per day. The first time he sees Mabel, he is almost awestruck, Mabel is a beautiful creature that lights up the room.
This book is a beautiful story about two "lost" people finding themselves and also each other in the end. I love how the author takes us on a journey where we get to see beneath the surface of the 2 MC's and get a better understanding of who they are and what make them tick. Her books, and this too, gives us more insight in the MC's and their inner lives, than many other books do. This is a quality I love.
I highly recommend this book!
September 1, 2024
Sleep - Jumping Off Cliffs
“There’s still so much stigma around not fitting into the cis norm of existence, I never felt…perfect. I hate that word.” “You shouldn’t. You’re kind, and wonderful, and thoughtful, and warm and…it’s strange. You make me feel comfortable. I never have. Not with myself, with my body. I heard you say once that you try all these things and seem to fail at them all. I think that’s wrong. Your experiences make you who you are. Well-rounded. Gorgeous.”
Absolutely Brilliant! Sophia Soames continues to WOW me with her sensitive writing, where humans share their inner hearts and souls.
Meeting Mabel is enlightening and an honor. Envisioning that life that Jonathan and Mabel create together, in Sleep - book 4 in the fantastic London Love series - is so very special.
These characters, both main and supportive, had this reader smiling and sobbing, wanting to throw things, then hug those dearest to me.
Finding books that open our minds, our hearts, and our souls is a challenge. One that sometimes has us needing to jump off a cliff emotionally. Sophia has the talent to hold our hand through that jump, and provide a safe place for us to land and grow. I love how amazing Sophia’s books present the opportunity for readers to love love, in all its many facets!
“There’s still so much stigma around not fitting into the cis norm of existence, I never felt…perfect. I hate that word.” “You shouldn’t. You’re kind, and wonderful, and thoughtful, and warm and…it’s strange. You make me feel comfortable. I never have. Not with myself, with my body. I heard you say once that you try all these things and seem to fail at them all. I think that’s wrong. Your experiences make you who you are. Well-rounded. Gorgeous.”
Absolutely Brilliant! Sophia Soames continues to WOW me with her sensitive writing, where humans share their inner hearts and souls.
Meeting Mabel is enlightening and an honor. Envisioning that life that Jonathan and Mabel create together, in Sleep - book 4 in the fantastic London Love series - is so very special.
These characters, both main and supportive, had this reader smiling and sobbing, wanting to throw things, then hug those dearest to me.
Finding books that open our minds, our hearts, and our souls is a challenge. One that sometimes has us needing to jump off a cliff emotionally. Sophia has the talent to hold our hand through that jump, and provide a safe place for us to land and grow. I love how amazing Sophia’s books present the opportunity for readers to love love, in all its many facets!
September 3, 2024
Flipping hell, Sophia Soames has done it again. Even more so this time. I always know a Sophia is gonna be a good time, but this one is next level, and is my favourite of the series (although each book I've read is my favourite in a different way) but this one especially has everything I treasure. The emotional intimacy in this is insane, and the intimacy and connection between Mabel and Jonny was incredible from the start, just the cuddles and little touches even before they so much as kissed. I've said before that Sophia is a top-notch provider of intimacy porn, and it's absolutely the case here. Incredible writing and amazing characterisation. I was halfway in love with Mabel myself and hoping for their book since they first sashayed onto the page, and their book is beautiful. I don't know how this author writes people who are so real. Other people do 'flawed' characters, but they just have things like being a bit excitable, or slightly jealous, or not putting their socks away properly. Sophia's characters are real people with real problems and 3D personalities with real genuine clashes. (Not between MCs in this book.) And yes, I know I'm talking about them like they're real people. They feel real, and I could talk about this series for ages. I'm so glad Mabel and Jonny got their HEA, and I can't recommend this book highly enough.
August 31, 2024
As soon as you see that delicious Christina Stern Pencil Art cover you know you are in for a real treat; it’s a new Sophia Soames book. I have read all the books in the London Love series and have been eagerly awaiting Mabel’s story for some time. They remind me of Professor Snape, given a bad rep but actually the hero of the piece. This book was a delight to read from the very beginning; so well written with fully developed characters. I was so engrossed that I was very nearly late for work! Both Mabel and Jonny, from opposite ends of the social spectrum, show us that money or lack of it matter not one iota when life just sucks. They were both flawed, hurting and they took us on an emotional roller coaster until they finally got their lives together and a very well deserved HEA. There are some fantastic side characters in Jenny, Jonny’s PA, and Mabel’s dad, Francis who are both strong supporters of our MC’s. Although this was part of a series, it could totally be read as a stand-alone. I was also excited to see a cameo appearance from Fearne Hill’s character Lysander St Cloud. All in all, this is a wonderfully British book and I can thoroughly recommend this and the entire series.
September 23, 2024
I have been waiting for Mabel to get their story and it did not disappoint. Was it heartbreaking on a few levels, yep! But for Mabel it was beautiful and everything they needed.
I have loved Mabel since they first showed up on page. The road to their HEA was definitely long and hard.
Jonathon's was no easier. He's a millionaire who prefers to live in isolation than being around people. He's an extremely powerful businessman who does it best in the privacy of his penthouse. Then Mabel enters his life and the world shifts for them both... slowly.
The book is a slow burn. That is not my favorite genre but in this case, it was definitely necessary for the story to work IMO.
Opposites attract
Millionaire character
Death off page
Emotional and beautiful
Once again Sophia Soames takes her gift of writing real life into an emotional story you can feel right along with her characters. You become so immersed in the story you feel like you're right there in the pages. In some ways, this story broke my heart, but it was beautiful in how it was written.
I'm truly going to miss Mabel. They're that one person you wish you had as a friend in your life.
I have loved Mabel since they first showed up on page. The road to their HEA was definitely long and hard.
Jonathon's was no easier. He's a millionaire who prefers to live in isolation than being around people. He's an extremely powerful businessman who does it best in the privacy of his penthouse. Then Mabel enters his life and the world shifts for them both... slowly.
The book is a slow burn. That is not my favorite genre but in this case, it was definitely necessary for the story to work IMO.
Opposites attract
Millionaire character
Death off page
Emotional and beautiful
Once again Sophia Soames takes her gift of writing real life into an emotional story you can feel right along with her characters. You become so immersed in the story you feel like you're right there in the pages. In some ways, this story broke my heart, but it was beautiful in how it was written.
I'm truly going to miss Mabel. They're that one person you wish you had as a friend in your life.
August 30, 2024
Fourth in series (London Love), but can be read as a standalone. Mature characters. Genderfluid MC representation. Hurt/comfort. Slow burn. Dual POV.
Jonathan is an introverted billionaire property tycoon that is lonely, can’t sleep, and is desperately attracted to the confident and social hotel maitre’d Mabel. Mabel’s life is falling apart and they can’t seem to catch a break in work or their personal life, until Jonathan keeps reaching out and there is an undeniable connection.
Imagine meeting someone that sees you, really sees you, and the honest communication and caring fills your soul - that is what Jonathan and Mabel experience together. This author’s emotional writing can do no wrong as I’m always drawn to her flawed characters, the personal growth, the subtle romance that is far beyond just physical attraction when two people find a special person that complements all their jagged edges and it just works. This is a must read series and author for me, and this book does not disappoint.
Jonathan is an introverted billionaire property tycoon that is lonely, can’t sleep, and is desperately attracted to the confident and social hotel maitre’d Mabel. Mabel’s life is falling apart and they can’t seem to catch a break in work or their personal life, until Jonathan keeps reaching out and there is an undeniable connection.
Imagine meeting someone that sees you, really sees you, and the honest communication and caring fills your soul - that is what Jonathan and Mabel experience together. This author’s emotional writing can do no wrong as I’m always drawn to her flawed characters, the personal growth, the subtle romance that is far beyond just physical attraction when two people find a special person that complements all their jagged edges and it just works. This is a must read series and author for me, and this book does not disappoint.
September 29, 2024
Wow, this was such a heartwarming story and so beautifully written. True to Sophia, it was a quirky and sweet story about two broken men. Mabel has always had a lot of love to give but has not been lucky in love. He got married and divorced young and he had been in love with his best friend for years who is now married to his ex-husband. On top of that he struggles with being stuck in a job that he doesn't enjoy anymore.
Business man Jonathan is struggling too. He's desperately lonely and his health is not great as he doesn't sleep or eat properly. When he moves next door to the hotel he starts going there for dinner and he's instantly mesmerized with Mabel. When Mabel walks out of her job Jonathan persuades Mabel to move into his place. Mabel is determined to get Jonathan's health back on track and Jonathan is keen for Mabel to see his worth. Somewhere along the line their relationship blossoms. This was a really good story and I couldn't put it down. Although this can be read as a stand alone, I recommend the other stories in this series.
Business man Jonathan is struggling too. He's desperately lonely and his health is not great as he doesn't sleep or eat properly. When he moves next door to the hotel he starts going there for dinner and he's instantly mesmerized with Mabel. When Mabel walks out of her job Jonathan persuades Mabel to move into his place. Mabel is determined to get Jonathan's health back on track and Jonathan is keen for Mabel to see his worth. Somewhere along the line their relationship blossoms. This was a really good story and I couldn't put it down. Although this can be read as a stand alone, I recommend the other stories in this series.
November 9, 2025
This book was absolutely everything I needed. I had started a different book and it was just about two young kids acting like jerks. I just couldn’t take it. So I had to come to Sophia Soames. I knew I needed a winner and boy did I get that. Mabel and Johnny are such a wonderful couple. They both had so much to work through, but they found one another. Each of them are complex and yet simple people at the same time. Two beautiful human beings who found one another and are making tough choices, but are there for one another all the way through. Delightful side, characters, excellent context, and a really interesting plot. Everything I needed and I am so grateful. If you’re looking for a book about characters who have lived through a lot and bring those experiences, both good and bad to the growth of their relationship this is for you. It’s a bit of a slow burn it needs to be. They make up for it once they crossed that hurdle. Highest recommendation.
September 4, 2024
I've been in love with Mabel Donovan since the first book in the series (London Love). Finally they get their own book, and it's glorious. The "romance with a billionaire" trope can be a bit shopworn -- unless your Sophia Soames. This book explores the complications of crippling anxiety and insomnia as brilliantly as it's ever been done. Mabel is the linchpin of the five-book series, and in this sexy, sensitive story, the reader learns how every major character is tied to this fascinating, fluid person. As always, the author crafts fully-realized characters with richly detailed traits and quirks. I especially enjoy the richness of minor characters -- in this case, Jonny's mother. What a total hoot! You can read this book as a stand-alone, but I really recommend starting with Taste and promenading through the entire series. It's worth the journey -- promise!!
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