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Not Moving Out: An uplifting second-chance romcom
Spouses Without Benefits - how can you move on without moving out?
Freya and Joe’s marriage has fizzled its way to the end, but for financial reasons, and to support their daughter in her final year of school, they decide they need to keep living together for six months.
They know it won’t be easy, but for Joe at least, it provides creative a struggling sitcom writer, he has found his new project. Why not write about his own situation? And the network loves it.
There is just one problem - Freya doesn’t know.
Can Freya and Joe navigate the six months together and might they find out something new about their relationship?
A relatable second-chance romcom perfect for fans of Mike Gayle and Beth O’Leary.
Readers are falling hard for Not Moving Out:
'Drew me in from the very first page and kept me hooked until the end.'⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review
'I honestly couldn’t stop reading. It had so many beautiful lines that made me stop and think...I laughed out loud....and even got a little teary at times.'⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review
'It was refreshing to read about characters that are in their forties...I adored this book.'⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review
'A fun unique concept...you will love it!' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review
'This is a book I will happily re-read for years to come.' ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review
Praise for Jon
‘You’ll want to put aside as many moments as you can to read this…you’ll love it!’ Nick Spalding
‘Thought-provoking yet tender, witty and warm, and with characters you’ll care about and be rooting for until the end.’ Matt Dunn
‘An ambitious novel, covering over two decades and taking in all the moments - big, small, tender, painful, intimate and brutal - that make up a complex relationship and a charming and touching story.’ Andy Jones
‘What a beautiful, beautiful love story. I can’t say enough good things about it!’⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review
‘Absolutely loved this story and found it near impossible to put down!’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review
‘I fell in love with the characters in this book and simply could not put the book down’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review
‘A beautiful tapestry of love, life, and everything in between… both uplifting and heart-wrenching…A must-read for anyone who believes in the power of moments and the enduring nature of true love.’⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review
‘Such a lovely read…highly recommend.’⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review
‘A captivating read that can only be described as unputdownable.’ Reader Review
Freya and Joe’s marriage has fizzled its way to the end, but for financial reasons, and to support their daughter in her final year of school, they decide they need to keep living together for six months.
They know it won’t be easy, but for Joe at least, it provides creative a struggling sitcom writer, he has found his new project. Why not write about his own situation? And the network loves it.
There is just one problem - Freya doesn’t know.
Can Freya and Joe navigate the six months together and might they find out something new about their relationship?
A relatable second-chance romcom perfect for fans of Mike Gayle and Beth O’Leary.
Readers are falling hard for Not Moving Out:
'Drew me in from the very first page and kept me hooked until the end.'⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review
'I honestly couldn’t stop reading. It had so many beautiful lines that made me stop and think...I laughed out loud....and even got a little teary at times.'⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review
'It was refreshing to read about characters that are in their forties...I adored this book.'⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review
'A fun unique concept...you will love it!' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review
'This is a book I will happily re-read for years to come.' ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review
Praise for Jon
‘You’ll want to put aside as many moments as you can to read this…you’ll love it!’ Nick Spalding
‘Thought-provoking yet tender, witty and warm, and with characters you’ll care about and be rooting for until the end.’ Matt Dunn
‘An ambitious novel, covering over two decades and taking in all the moments - big, small, tender, painful, intimate and brutal - that make up a complex relationship and a charming and touching story.’ Andy Jones
‘What a beautiful, beautiful love story. I can’t say enough good things about it!’⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review
‘Absolutely loved this story and found it near impossible to put down!’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review
‘I fell in love with the characters in this book and simply could not put the book down’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review
‘A beautiful tapestry of love, life, and everything in between… both uplifting and heart-wrenching…A must-read for anyone who believes in the power of moments and the enduring nature of true love.’⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review
‘Such a lovely read…highly recommend.’⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review
‘A captivating read that can only be described as unputdownable.’ Reader Review
310 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 15, 2025
8 people are currently reading
59 people want to read
About the author
Jon Rance
26 books93 followersJon Rance is the author of seven novels: the Kindle top ten bestseller, This Thirtysomething Life, Happy Endings (both published by Hodder and Stoughton), This Family Life, Sunday Dinners, Dan And Nat Got Married, About Us, and The Summer Holidays Survival Guide. He's also the author of the Christmas novella, A Notting Hill Christmas.
Jon studied English Literature at Middlesex University, London, before going travelling and meeting his American wife in Australia. Jon loves comedy (especially sitcoms), the films of Richard Curtis, travelling and tea. He just turned forty, which is a terrifying time, so his books might get a bit edgier and possibly angrier as a result.
Jon writes dramatic, romantic, comedy fiction similar to the work of Mike Gayle, Matt Dunn, Nick Spalding and David Nicholls.
You can email him at: jonrance@yahoo.com
Please visit his website: www.jonrance.co.uk
Follow him on Twitter: @JRance75
Jon studied English Literature at Middlesex University, London, before going travelling and meeting his American wife in Australia. Jon loves comedy (especially sitcoms), the films of Richard Curtis, travelling and tea. He just turned forty, which is a terrifying time, so his books might get a bit edgier and possibly angrier as a result.
Jon writes dramatic, romantic, comedy fiction similar to the work of Mike Gayle, Matt Dunn, Nick Spalding and David Nicholls.
You can email him at: jonrance@yahoo.com
Please visit his website: www.jonrance.co.uk
Follow him on Twitter: @JRance75
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
April 28, 2025
Are you married? Do you have kids? Have you experienced the ups and downs of life? Have you wondered if it would be better to separate from your spouse and start over but don't have the finances?
If so, then this second chance romance is right up your alley.
Freya and Joe are 100% relatable. They had a marvelous marriage (at one point), a smart daughter about to leave for university, but with only one real income, they don't have the money to do anything about it....right now. So naturally, they separate waiting to dissolve their marriage until Dolly leaves for university the caveat is that they're still living together. This really makes you question, can you remain friends with your (soon-to-be) ex spouse?
This is a book I will happily re-read for years to come. It makes you truly think that a struggling marriage can bounce back from the lies and deceit. I am so thankful that the reason for their "downs" was not infidelity. Not every marriage has someone that cheats, but love is a job. You have to work at it to make it work. That is exactly what this book shows. It makes you realize that eventually you're going to hit those lows in your marriage, in your life, and you truly have to want it for it to last.
If anything, this book shows beautifully that even if it's storming today, there could be a miraculous rainbow tomorrow.
Thank you to the author/publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book early. This was my first Jon Rance novel and I will *definitely* be diving into more of his work!
If so, then this second chance romance is right up your alley.
Freya and Joe are 100% relatable. They had a marvelous marriage (at one point), a smart daughter about to leave for university, but with only one real income, they don't have the money to do anything about it....right now. So naturally, they separate waiting to dissolve their marriage until Dolly leaves for university the caveat is that they're still living together. This really makes you question, can you remain friends with your (soon-to-be) ex spouse?
This is a book I will happily re-read for years to come. It makes you truly think that a struggling marriage can bounce back from the lies and deceit. I am so thankful that the reason for their "downs" was not infidelity. Not every marriage has someone that cheats, but love is a job. You have to work at it to make it work. That is exactly what this book shows. It makes you realize that eventually you're going to hit those lows in your marriage, in your life, and you truly have to want it for it to last.
If anything, this book shows beautifully that even if it's storming today, there could be a miraculous rainbow tomorrow.
Thank you to the author/publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book early. This was my first Jon Rance novel and I will *definitely* be diving into more of his work!
April 13, 2025
This is a second chance romance, but not the kind you are usually used to, where the two lovers-to-be have been separated by time. In this case, they are separated by a floor of their house. Freya upstairs, and Joe downstairs.
The pair have been married for a long time. Their daughter, Dolly is going off to university, and For Freya, things had been bad for the last year and a half, so she proposes that they get separated, but live in the same house, because they can’t afford to live apart, and it would be better for Dolly, to have a stable home before she goes off.
Joe still loves her. But he doesn’t know how to express it. He, a writer, hasn’t sold anything in years, but goes to meet his agent, whom he tells about living together but apart, and he is told to pitch it as a tv show, and of course it is picked up.
Lack of communication is often the crux of problems in the world, and in this case, Joe not telling Freya that he is writing a show based on their life is something he doesn’t want to do because he thinks she won’t understand.
Although I enjoyed this book, I had a little issue with Freya’s voice. Joe’s chapters made perfect sense, and were heart shredding. But on the other hand, Freya got upset for Joe not fighting for the marriage more, or not calling her more, when she both told him to not call her, and that it was over, so don’t bother fighting. No wonder Joe was having problems.
This book will be available on the 15th of May 2025. Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest review.
The pair have been married for a long time. Their daughter, Dolly is going off to university, and For Freya, things had been bad for the last year and a half, so she proposes that they get separated, but live in the same house, because they can’t afford to live apart, and it would be better for Dolly, to have a stable home before she goes off.
Joe still loves her. But he doesn’t know how to express it. He, a writer, hasn’t sold anything in years, but goes to meet his agent, whom he tells about living together but apart, and he is told to pitch it as a tv show, and of course it is picked up.
Lack of communication is often the crux of problems in the world, and in this case, Joe not telling Freya that he is writing a show based on their life is something he doesn’t want to do because he thinks she won’t understand.
Although I enjoyed this book, I had a little issue with Freya’s voice. Joe’s chapters made perfect sense, and were heart shredding. But on the other hand, Freya got upset for Joe not fighting for the marriage more, or not calling her more, when she both told him to not call her, and that it was over, so don’t bother fighting. No wonder Joe was having problems.
This book will be available on the 15th of May 2025. Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest review.
April 17, 2025
- ARC REVIEW -
Freya and Joe’s marriage is over, or so they think. But with their daughter’s final school year ahead and money tight, they agree to live together for six more months.
For Joe, a struggling sitcom writer, their awkward setup becomes the perfect story. The network loves it, there’s just one problem: Freya doesn’t know she’s the star.
First off, huge thanks to NetGalley and Jon Rance for giving me the chance to read this! I was pulled in right from the start. The story moves fast, and I honestly couldn’t stop reading. It had so many beautiful lines that made me stop and think about love, life, and all the messy in-betweens.
I loved the writing style and the plot. Even when I wasn’t reading, I kept thinking about the characters, they felt so real. I laughed out loud more than once and even got a little teary at times.
Okay yes, there were moments where I just wanted to yell please communicate!! but that just made it all the more relatable.
All in all, I’m really grateful I got to read this one. I’ll definitely be recommending it to my friends!
Freya and Joe’s marriage is over, or so they think. But with their daughter’s final school year ahead and money tight, they agree to live together for six more months.
For Joe, a struggling sitcom writer, their awkward setup becomes the perfect story. The network loves it, there’s just one problem: Freya doesn’t know she’s the star.
First off, huge thanks to NetGalley and Jon Rance for giving me the chance to read this! I was pulled in right from the start. The story moves fast, and I honestly couldn’t stop reading. It had so many beautiful lines that made me stop and think about love, life, and all the messy in-betweens.
I loved the writing style and the plot. Even when I wasn’t reading, I kept thinking about the characters, they felt so real. I laughed out loud more than once and even got a little teary at times.
Okay yes, there were moments where I just wanted to yell please communicate!! but that just made it all the more relatable.
All in all, I’m really grateful I got to read this one. I’ll definitely be recommending it to my friends!
May 21, 2025
I've never read a book by Rance before. I have no idea why not. I loved Not Moving Out, soI won't need much persuading to pick up his previous books!
Could you remain in a house with an ex? I don't think I could. All those annoying habits...
The story is told in alternating chapters from Freya and Joe across a six month period...for their daughter's sake 'apparently'. I was the voice in the background willing them back together in between wanting them to talk, then talk some more! So frustrating! Yet so relatable!
The relationship woes felt real, relatable and their characters played it off perfectly.
Entertaining and enjoyable.
Could you remain in a house with an ex? I don't think I could. All those annoying habits...
The story is told in alternating chapters from Freya and Joe across a six month period...for their daughter's sake 'apparently'. I was the voice in the background willing them back together in between wanting them to talk, then talk some more! So frustrating! Yet so relatable!
The relationship woes felt real, relatable and their characters played it off perfectly.
Entertaining and enjoyable.
May 17, 2025
Originally reviewed for Chick Lit Central (www.chicklitcentral.com)
Not Moving Out was a realistic look at the changes that can happen within a marriage, particularly after being married for a very long length of time. The last eighteen months of Freya’s and Joe’s marriage had felt like a strain for both characters–Freya feels that Joe doesn’t want to put in the work and effort to improve their relationship, while Joe feels like Freya isn’t giving him the benefit of the doubt. I appreciated how they are coming at it from different perspectives, with valid points on either side, but it’s obvious something drastic has to happen in order for this marriage to be salvageable.
Freya comes up with a temporary solution: To separate internally, in their home, while waiting out their daughter’s last year of school. Freya will take the primary bedroom, while Joe will make room in his office. And they’ll both try their best to be respectful to one another in the meantime, until they can officially divorce. As can be imagined, the time spent apart while still under the same roof proves to be off putting and awkward, and that scenario also felt realistic. Having done something similar myself, it’s strange how the person you pledged to spend the rest of your life with becomes almost like an acquaintance, and I really felt that for Freya and Joe.
A subcurrent plot is Joe’s fledgling career. One of the catalysts that has led to the separation had been Joe’s need to put his career first, so when the suggestion to write about his experiences with Freya becomes a reality and an option, he jumps at the chance, with minimal reservations. They always say to write what you know, right? Only, the longer Joe goes without talking with Freya about his latest project, the harder it gets to come clean with her. And the more he writes, the closer he feels to her, reliving many of the reasons he fell in love with her to begin with.
I could appreciate Not Moving Out. A near-constant thread and lesson that is presented for both characters is to not forget who they were before the marriage. So often, people no longer remember who they were, or the types of hobbies or interests they had before, often choosing to go with their partner’s choices, or thoughts and ideas. Which only later serves to make them feel like they no longer know who they are. I felt that more with Freya, but there are glimpses of that for Joe, too. The big question is whether the two of them are meant to stay together, or if it’s better to be apart. And maybe the separation will help them figure it out. It was an eye-opening experience!
Not Moving Out was a realistic look at the changes that can happen within a marriage, particularly after being married for a very long length of time. The last eighteen months of Freya’s and Joe’s marriage had felt like a strain for both characters–Freya feels that Joe doesn’t want to put in the work and effort to improve their relationship, while Joe feels like Freya isn’t giving him the benefit of the doubt. I appreciated how they are coming at it from different perspectives, with valid points on either side, but it’s obvious something drastic has to happen in order for this marriage to be salvageable.
Freya comes up with a temporary solution: To separate internally, in their home, while waiting out their daughter’s last year of school. Freya will take the primary bedroom, while Joe will make room in his office. And they’ll both try their best to be respectful to one another in the meantime, until they can officially divorce. As can be imagined, the time spent apart while still under the same roof proves to be off putting and awkward, and that scenario also felt realistic. Having done something similar myself, it’s strange how the person you pledged to spend the rest of your life with becomes almost like an acquaintance, and I really felt that for Freya and Joe.
A subcurrent plot is Joe’s fledgling career. One of the catalysts that has led to the separation had been Joe’s need to put his career first, so when the suggestion to write about his experiences with Freya becomes a reality and an option, he jumps at the chance, with minimal reservations. They always say to write what you know, right? Only, the longer Joe goes without talking with Freya about his latest project, the harder it gets to come clean with her. And the more he writes, the closer he feels to her, reliving many of the reasons he fell in love with her to begin with.
I could appreciate Not Moving Out. A near-constant thread and lesson that is presented for both characters is to not forget who they were before the marriage. So often, people no longer remember who they were, or the types of hobbies or interests they had before, often choosing to go with their partner’s choices, or thoughts and ideas. Which only later serves to make them feel like they no longer know who they are. I felt that more with Freya, but there are glimpses of that for Joe, too. The big question is whether the two of them are meant to stay together, or if it’s better to be apart. And maybe the separation will help them figure it out. It was an eye-opening experience!
April 14, 2025
Strong 4.5⭐️
As the author said himself “ is a romantic comedy about love when you are older, about marriage, parenting, parents, friends and lovers”
As I usually read romance with “book boyfriend” characters and people in their 20s or 30s, this book was something totally different for me as a reader.
It’s follows a couple in their 40s, after being married for nearly 20 years that decided to separate without any big drama like cheating. They had more of long-time struggles in their marriage, that piled over time, but not one particular cause of their separation.
I think the story can be very relatable and quite realistic. It’s still fiction, but the whole premise and execution of the story allows the reader to find themselves or at least someone they know in the main couple or side characters.
It’s well written, funny, but also makes you think. It’s entertaining and can easily be a quick read.
I loved the idea and execution! Also the way all the side-plots and side characters were crafted is worth mentioning.
I liked the pacing. For the majority of the story it wasn’t clear how Freya and Joe will end up - will they find their way back to each other or will it end with divorce? I don’t know which way to root for them up to 80% of the story! Over the last 20% once I had an opinion if they should be together or not, I changed it probably 3 times! Only during the last 20%! I didn’t think I will like either way the story could end, but the author managed to prove me wrong ;)
I very much enjoyed the story as a woman in her early 30s with almost 10 years of being married, so you definitely don’t have to be older or in marriage crisis to read and enjoy this story ;)
As the author said himself “ is a romantic comedy about love when you are older, about marriage, parenting, parents, friends and lovers”
As I usually read romance with “book boyfriend” characters and people in their 20s or 30s, this book was something totally different for me as a reader.
It’s follows a couple in their 40s, after being married for nearly 20 years that decided to separate without any big drama like cheating. They had more of long-time struggles in their marriage, that piled over time, but not one particular cause of their separation.
I think the story can be very relatable and quite realistic. It’s still fiction, but the whole premise and execution of the story allows the reader to find themselves or at least someone they know in the main couple or side characters.
It’s well written, funny, but also makes you think. It’s entertaining and can easily be a quick read.
I loved the idea and execution! Also the way all the side-plots and side characters were crafted is worth mentioning.
I liked the pacing. For the majority of the story it wasn’t clear how Freya and Joe will end up - will they find their way back to each other or will it end with divorce? I don’t know which way to root for them up to 80% of the story! Over the last 20% once I had an opinion if they should be together or not, I changed it probably 3 times! Only during the last 20%! I didn’t think I will like either way the story could end, but the author managed to prove me wrong ;)
I very much enjoyed the story as a woman in her early 30s with almost 10 years of being married, so you definitely don’t have to be older or in marriage crisis to read and enjoy this story ;)
April 20, 2025
I was very excited to read an ARC of Jon Rance's soon-to-be-released Not Moving Out, as I had loved his previous book, One Hundred Moments of Us.
A second chance, close proximity romance, disguised as a breakup, essentially, Not Moving Out centres around two characters in their 40s, married for almost two decades, and finding that their relationship has changed. There doesn't seem to be that much romance or connection that was prevalent initially.
Joe is a comedy script writer, struggling to regain the successes from earlier in his career.
Freya is a paralegal secretary and a wannabe solicitor who gave up her initial dream of supporting her husband and giving more time to their daughter, Dolly.
After 18 tough months, they decide to separate, but they cannot live separately because of their finances.
Instead, they are stuck under the same roof, for their daughter's sake, until she leaves for university six months later.
What a situation, eh?
That you can feel the love and affection that both characters still feel for one another, alongside how they have stagnated, is so realistic. I know relationships can become like this.
Joe's (or his agent's) idea for a new script was something I knew would implode from the moment it was mentioned!
Did I want to hit both characters' heads together at several moments, and tell them to talk to one another? OMG, so many times!
But I enjoyed the whole story. An easy read with a bumpy journey that leads to a happy ending.
A second chance, close proximity romance, disguised as a breakup, essentially, Not Moving Out centres around two characters in their 40s, married for almost two decades, and finding that their relationship has changed. There doesn't seem to be that much romance or connection that was prevalent initially.
Joe is a comedy script writer, struggling to regain the successes from earlier in his career.
Freya is a paralegal secretary and a wannabe solicitor who gave up her initial dream of supporting her husband and giving more time to their daughter, Dolly.
After 18 tough months, they decide to separate, but they cannot live separately because of their finances.
Instead, they are stuck under the same roof, for their daughter's sake, until she leaves for university six months later.
What a situation, eh?
That you can feel the love and affection that both characters still feel for one another, alongside how they have stagnated, is so realistic. I know relationships can become like this.
Joe's (or his agent's) idea for a new script was something I knew would implode from the moment it was mentioned!
Did I want to hit both characters' heads together at several moments, and tell them to talk to one another? OMG, so many times!
But I enjoyed the whole story. An easy read with a bumpy journey that leads to a happy ending.
April 23, 2025
This is a beautiful book which revolves around the brutal reality of how a lot of couple falls apart in the later part of their lives because of so many reasons that in isolation might not have affected them but when combined with everything makes them feel that they cannot live together.
Joe & Freya are in their mid 40's but their marriage isn't the same. Joe is struggling to land on a good writing gig for a sitcom/show whereas Freya is working as a paralegal in a law firm. They both land to the conclusion that they have to separate because there marriage hasn't felt like marriage in last 1.5 years but since money is tight they decide to not move out of the house and only take that action once their daughter has moved out for further education.
I felt this book was a real good attempt to show the real problems but for me the connection felt flat. I feel if it is a marriage in distress where parting ways seems like the next best thing there has to have conversations as well as actions from both the ends to fix that bond if they wish to fix it. but here it felt like applying a bandaid on a scar that needed stitches, medicines and a lot of care.
I wish I could have been happy for when they got back together, but I felt it wasnt needed. It felt rushed without solving the issues. or maybe they didnt even need to part ways to begin with and it was all an impulsive decision.
Joe & Freya are in their mid 40's but their marriage isn't the same. Joe is struggling to land on a good writing gig for a sitcom/show whereas Freya is working as a paralegal in a law firm. They both land to the conclusion that they have to separate because there marriage hasn't felt like marriage in last 1.5 years but since money is tight they decide to not move out of the house and only take that action once their daughter has moved out for further education.
I felt this book was a real good attempt to show the real problems but for me the connection felt flat. I feel if it is a marriage in distress where parting ways seems like the next best thing there has to have conversations as well as actions from both the ends to fix that bond if they wish to fix it. but here it felt like applying a bandaid on a scar that needed stitches, medicines and a lot of care.
I wish I could have been happy for when they got back together, but I felt it wasnt needed. It felt rushed without solving the issues. or maybe they didnt even need to part ways to begin with and it was all an impulsive decision.
May 10, 2025
The synopsis/premise of this story made it an immediate "want to read" for me, as someone who's been married for 15 years...
So much of what was going "wrong" with Joe & Freya felt relatable and was realistically portrayed: there are obviously times when routine and monotony of daily life just take over and you forget to really connect with family members- whether it's your spouse or kid(s).
I think Dolly's character arc was done well - that there is more to her than just a child of separation, she has her own trials that she is struggling with aside from her parent's being split up. There was a nostalgic moment that Freya had looking at old pictures of Dolly that really got me in the feels!
There were SO MANY mentions of "the last 18 months" and how rough the last 18 months had been without really giving much more information than that...this maybe could have benefited from a dual-timeline or flashback style chapter set up. At one point I thought I didn't feel as connected to Freya as I wanted to (as a real-life wife) but then felt myself being angry at Joe multiple times and thought maybe I was actually connecting with her...ha...
I'm giving this a solid 3/5 stars, it was an enjoyable read with some humorous scenarios, heightened emotions surrounding anger at a spouse and watching your kid grow up, and also included highly relatable situations for a married person.
So much of what was going "wrong" with Joe & Freya felt relatable and was realistically portrayed: there are obviously times when routine and monotony of daily life just take over and you forget to really connect with family members- whether it's your spouse or kid(s).
I think Dolly's character arc was done well - that there is more to her than just a child of separation, she has her own trials that she is struggling with aside from her parent's being split up. There was a nostalgic moment that Freya had looking at old pictures of Dolly that really got me in the feels!
There were SO MANY mentions of "the last 18 months" and how rough the last 18 months had been without really giving much more information than that...this maybe could have benefited from a dual-timeline or flashback style chapter set up. At one point I thought I didn't feel as connected to Freya as I wanted to (as a real-life wife) but then felt myself being angry at Joe multiple times and thought maybe I was actually connecting with her...ha...
I'm giving this a solid 3/5 stars, it was an enjoyable read with some humorous scenarios, heightened emotions surrounding anger at a spouse and watching your kid grow up, and also included highly relatable situations for a married person.
April 16, 2025
★ ★ ★ ½
Not Moving Out follows Joe and Freya, a couple that has been married for 20 years with marital issues for the past 18 months. They are forced to live in the same house during their separation due to financial issues and to keep it as “normal” for their daughter, Dolly, who is heading off to Uni.
There is visible love between them, however their biggest battle that led to their separation was the lack of communication on both parts, mainly Freya’s. I felt like this was the most frustrating part for myself while reading. I also didn’t enjoy the frequent mentions of their marriage disintegrating in the past year and a half but not having true examples, the same phrase was constantly reworded to remind us of it, when it could’ve been shown.
The characters were decently written but I felt like Joe was more developed than Freya and that her character fell a bit flat. Because of this, I didn’t feel very connected to the characters, making my interest waver. I did enjoy the dynamic between Freya and her mother and friends, it was refreshing to see her personality outside of Joe.
Overall, the book was well written but I just felt the romance was a bit lackluster. I would recommend this for anyone who enjoys the miscommunication trope.
A big thank you to NetGalley for this ARC. Not Moving Out will be available to read on May 15, 2025.
Not Moving Out follows Joe and Freya, a couple that has been married for 20 years with marital issues for the past 18 months. They are forced to live in the same house during their separation due to financial issues and to keep it as “normal” for their daughter, Dolly, who is heading off to Uni.
There is visible love between them, however their biggest battle that led to their separation was the lack of communication on both parts, mainly Freya’s. I felt like this was the most frustrating part for myself while reading. I also didn’t enjoy the frequent mentions of their marriage disintegrating in the past year and a half but not having true examples, the same phrase was constantly reworded to remind us of it, when it could’ve been shown.
The characters were decently written but I felt like Joe was more developed than Freya and that her character fell a bit flat. Because of this, I didn’t feel very connected to the characters, making my interest waver. I did enjoy the dynamic between Freya and her mother and friends, it was refreshing to see her personality outside of Joe.
Overall, the book was well written but I just felt the romance was a bit lackluster. I would recommend this for anyone who enjoys the miscommunication trope.
A big thank you to NetGalley for this ARC. Not Moving Out will be available to read on May 15, 2025.
May 6, 2025
It's been years since I last read a Jon Rance novel, so I was very excited when this slid onto my kindle. And it was incredibly enjoyable.
Freya and Joe know their marriage is over, but they are determined to keep living in the same house for the next six months, until their daughter Dolly leaves for uni. And thanks to this new dynamic between them, it leads to some very entertaining moments, as well as especially in Freya's case a discovering of who she is without Joe.
As they gain new interests, inspirations and continue to try to persuade Dolly that everything is business as usual, they start seeing each other in various new lights too.
It's Joe's deceptions that really added something to me, and with him being a sit com writer, I kept thinking that this book would be great generally on the small screen itself.
I would love to see this turned into a TV series.
I enjoyed the various characters and new friends that are made, and seeing how Freya and Joe change is heartwarming. I also really loved Dolly and contributions to this novel
It's an all around enjoyable story that I had a great time reading.
Thank you to Hera for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
Freya and Joe know their marriage is over, but they are determined to keep living in the same house for the next six months, until their daughter Dolly leaves for uni. And thanks to this new dynamic between them, it leads to some very entertaining moments, as well as especially in Freya's case a discovering of who she is without Joe.
As they gain new interests, inspirations and continue to try to persuade Dolly that everything is business as usual, they start seeing each other in various new lights too.
It's Joe's deceptions that really added something to me, and with him being a sit com writer, I kept thinking that this book would be great generally on the small screen itself.
I would love to see this turned into a TV series.
I enjoyed the various characters and new friends that are made, and seeing how Freya and Joe change is heartwarming. I also really loved Dolly and contributions to this novel
It's an all around enjoyable story that I had a great time reading.
Thank you to Hera for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
May 16, 2025
Freya and Joe are over. Freya has pulled the plaster off their failing marriage and called time. But they’ve agreed for the sake of their daughter who’s heading into the dreaded A-Levels, they’d stay under the same roof until she heads to uni and they can sell the house. It’s only what 6/7 months, what could possibly go wrong?!
Well that 6 month period provided me with a blast of entertainment with awkwardness in the kitchen, sneaking around, drunken mistakes. Throughout I chuckled, cringed and just went along for the ride that this couple found themselves on. It was blatant they both cared for each other but was that enough to rebuild the marriage or were they destined to become friends, acquaintances or just two people who shared a history and a daughter?
I’ve not read many rom-coms from a male keyboard. That’s not me being choosy; there just doesn’t seem to be that many around. I may be wrong here but that’s what I see from where I’m sat. That said,I thoroughly enjoyed my first Jon Rance novel. It had a different feel to my normal rom-coms but different always isn’t a bad thing. I found Not Moving Out was entertaining with real characters experiencing real problems and emotions. I will be reading more from Rance.
Well that 6 month period provided me with a blast of entertainment with awkwardness in the kitchen, sneaking around, drunken mistakes. Throughout I chuckled, cringed and just went along for the ride that this couple found themselves on. It was blatant they both cared for each other but was that enough to rebuild the marriage or were they destined to become friends, acquaintances or just two people who shared a history and a daughter?
I’ve not read many rom-coms from a male keyboard. That’s not me being choosy; there just doesn’t seem to be that many around. I may be wrong here but that’s what I see from where I’m sat. That said,I thoroughly enjoyed my first Jon Rance novel. It had a different feel to my normal rom-coms but different always isn’t a bad thing. I found Not Moving Out was entertaining with real characters experiencing real problems and emotions. I will be reading more from Rance.
April 15, 2025
I had a tough time with this story. I went in excited about the concept of a recently separated couple having to stay living in the same house due to financial reasons and to support their daughter through her last year of school. I love a second chance romance but this just unfortunately missed the mark for me. There was no pining for each other, and I felt no chemistry between the two characters.
This book was also filled with a lot of telling instead of showing. They kept mentioning (over and over and over again mind you) that the last 18 months of their marriage were a struggle. Instead of telling the reader, I think the story would have benefited by a flashback scene to help us feel something for these two or to empathize more with their situation. Why did they even fall in love in the first place? What exactly caused this rift between them?
By at the end of the book I honestly didn’t care whether or not they got back together. The characters were one dimensional and I had a hard time connecting to them and rooting for their relationship. I felt bored most of the time, and towards the ends I was skimming to finish.
Thank you to NetGalley and Hera Books for this ARC.
This book was also filled with a lot of telling instead of showing. They kept mentioning (over and over and over again mind you) that the last 18 months of their marriage were a struggle. Instead of telling the reader, I think the story would have benefited by a flashback scene to help us feel something for these two or to empathize more with their situation. Why did they even fall in love in the first place? What exactly caused this rift between them?
By at the end of the book I honestly didn’t care whether or not they got back together. The characters were one dimensional and I had a hard time connecting to them and rooting for their relationship. I felt bored most of the time, and towards the ends I was skimming to finish.
Thank you to NetGalley and Hera Books for this ARC.
April 14, 2025
3.5 stars for me. Need to be able to rate half stars on this platform.
This is a cute second chance romance following the relationship of Joe & Freya who have been married for many years. Their daughter, Dolly is getting ready to head to college, so they have decided since the past 18 months they have been just going through the motions of a relationship that had been steadily declining for years, they will go ahead and separate. Due to financial insecurity, they are forced to stay under the same roof but in separate bedrooms.
I think the biggest part of the plot is the miscommunication and lack of communication trope - and I just have the worst time with that particular trope. I kept wanting Joe to speak his feelings and not drag this out. I also wanted Freya to stop giving mixed signals.
Characters were developed but I struggled connecting a bit. It was also hard for me to feel the chemistry.
However if the miscommunication trope is what lights your candle, this is the book for you!
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC!
This is a cute second chance romance following the relationship of Joe & Freya who have been married for many years. Their daughter, Dolly is getting ready to head to college, so they have decided since the past 18 months they have been just going through the motions of a relationship that had been steadily declining for years, they will go ahead and separate. Due to financial insecurity, they are forced to stay under the same roof but in separate bedrooms.
I think the biggest part of the plot is the miscommunication and lack of communication trope - and I just have the worst time with that particular trope. I kept wanting Joe to speak his feelings and not drag this out. I also wanted Freya to stop giving mixed signals.
Characters were developed but I struggled connecting a bit. It was also hard for me to feel the chemistry.
However if the miscommunication trope is what lights your candle, this is the book for you!
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC!
April 28, 2025
Freya and Joe’s marriage is hanging by a thread. They’re trying to figure out if they should stick it out or go their separate ways, all while keeping things as normal as possible for their daughter, Dolly, until she heads off to university.
What I liked about this book is how real it felt. Instead of an idealized romance, the story explores the ups and downs of a long-term relationship, the way people slowly lose themselves, lose their spark, and the tough choices that come with it. Freya and Joe must weigh the benefits and drawbacks of staying together or going their separate ways. Should they fight for the love they once had and the future they might build, or accept that their time together has run its course?
The back-and-forth struggle felt super relatable, like something a lot of couples go through. There weren’t any standout moments that blew me away, but the story as a whole was enjoyable.
Thank you to NetGalley and Hera books for this ARC copy in exchange for my honest review.
Check out more of my reviews at https://bookishwondersreviews.blogspo...
What I liked about this book is how real it felt. Instead of an idealized romance, the story explores the ups and downs of a long-term relationship, the way people slowly lose themselves, lose their spark, and the tough choices that come with it. Freya and Joe must weigh the benefits and drawbacks of staying together or going their separate ways. Should they fight for the love they once had and the future they might build, or accept that their time together has run its course?
The back-and-forth struggle felt super relatable, like something a lot of couples go through. There weren’t any standout moments that blew me away, but the story as a whole was enjoyable.
Thank you to NetGalley and Hera books for this ARC copy in exchange for my honest review.
Check out more of my reviews at https://bookishwondersreviews.blogspo...
May 12, 2025
ARC Thank you #NetGalley #NotMovingOut
I thoroughly enjoyed, appreciated the rawness and authentic emotions through a unique lenses of this romcom. I definitely recommend it.
Not Moving Out by Jon Rance
Is about a married couple and their daughter, Freya, Joe and Dolly. After 18 long months of losing Freya and Joe connection, passion, love. They move out of their shared room into separate bedrooms. They commit to living together until Dolly goes to uni and they will divorce.
Joe is a writer for sitcoms, who has struggled to have another successful series. He has a big personality and humor is not the only one. He is peeling layers off and seeing insecurities.
Freya is a partial solicitor, (lawyer). Is level headed, direct and is seeing herself in a different light with new and familiar people.
Joe creates a show that is premised his home life without asking Freya’s ok and things turn on a downward spiral. How many times can one be forgiven after losing each other from the beginning.
It had a beautiful ending with
seen through rose rimmed glasses.
I thoroughly enjoyed, appreciated the rawness and authentic emotions through a unique lenses of this romcom. I definitely recommend it.
Not Moving Out by Jon Rance
Is about a married couple and their daughter, Freya, Joe and Dolly. After 18 long months of losing Freya and Joe connection, passion, love. They move out of their shared room into separate bedrooms. They commit to living together until Dolly goes to uni and they will divorce.
Joe is a writer for sitcoms, who has struggled to have another successful series. He has a big personality and humor is not the only one. He is peeling layers off and seeing insecurities.
Freya is a partial solicitor, (lawyer). Is level headed, direct and is seeing herself in a different light with new and familiar people.
Joe creates a show that is premised his home life without asking Freya’s ok and things turn on a downward spiral. How many times can one be forgiven after losing each other from the beginning.
It had a beautiful ending with
seen through rose rimmed glasses.
May 15, 2025
I would firstly just like to say a very big thank you to Rachel’s Random Resources who very kindly forwarded me an arc copy of this book, for my kindle, in return for my honest review…
Not Moving Out is a wonderful, uplifting, second chance romance and was such an easy read I couldn’t put it down. It pulled me in right from the very first page and kept me hooked all the way through until i had turned every last page and devoured it all.
This was such a beautifully written story and in it we follow Joe, a struggling sit-com writer and his wife Freya, a wannabe solicitor, as they try and navigate a strange and difficult situation. Quite often I would shout at the page in frustration and I definitely wanted to knock their heads together on more than one occasion!!
I really enjoyed this book, it was emotional, heartwarming, touching, uplifting and very funny and in many places it had me chuckling along until i couldn’t see the words anymore. From beginning to end it was a very bumpy ride but it all leads to a wonderful happy ending - perfect…..
Not Moving Out is a wonderful, uplifting, second chance romance and was such an easy read I couldn’t put it down. It pulled me in right from the very first page and kept me hooked all the way through until i had turned every last page and devoured it all.
This was such a beautifully written story and in it we follow Joe, a struggling sit-com writer and his wife Freya, a wannabe solicitor, as they try and navigate a strange and difficult situation. Quite often I would shout at the page in frustration and I definitely wanted to knock their heads together on more than one occasion!!
I really enjoyed this book, it was emotional, heartwarming, touching, uplifting and very funny and in many places it had me chuckling along until i couldn’t see the words anymore. From beginning to end it was a very bumpy ride but it all leads to a wonderful happy ending - perfect…..
April 14, 2025
Books have always been my “happy place.” The genre that I can never get enough of is romance. Although my preferred genre is romantic suspense books, I am actually a huge fan of Rom-Coms as well. Because of this, I was extremely excited to read this book.
One of the things that hooked me about this book is that it was refreshing to read about characters that are in their forties. Also, as someone who has been married for almost 17 years, this book made me think about what I would do if my own marriage ended up “imploding.” I could definitely see us in this type of situation!
While I really liked most of the characters, I have to say that Joe is my absolute favorite. He was the character that I was rooting for most of all. Not to be a spoiler, but I am glad that it all works out for him.
All in all, I adored this book. I can’t wait to read other works by Jon Rance.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
One of the things that hooked me about this book is that it was refreshing to read about characters that are in their forties. Also, as someone who has been married for almost 17 years, this book made me think about what I would do if my own marriage ended up “imploding.” I could definitely see us in this type of situation!
While I really liked most of the characters, I have to say that Joe is my absolute favorite. He was the character that I was rooting for most of all. Not to be a spoiler, but I am glad that it all works out for him.
All in all, I adored this book. I can’t wait to read other works by Jon Rance.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
May 21, 2025
This is a humorous and yet realistic take on family, life, love, separation and divorce. It is the story of Freya and Joe, who have recently separated, but have to live together for six months because of their finances and daughter.
I enjoyed this page turner. It was fiction and yet so real as the characters are relatable and so funny. It is messy, raw, unfiltered and fun.
Told from the points of view of both main characters, the author captures their thoughts successfully and is true to each character without sugarcoating them.
Although the author’s note does clarify why Joe was portrayed as he was, it would have helped if there were more flashbacks about the good times they had.
The lack of communication and miscommunication tropes were used brilliantly and were apt for the plot.
If you love older protagonists’ love stories and a fan of forced proximity with some relatable characters then you will enjoy this.
I enjoyed this page turner. It was fiction and yet so real as the characters are relatable and so funny. It is messy, raw, unfiltered and fun.
Told from the points of view of both main characters, the author captures their thoughts successfully and is true to each character without sugarcoating them.
Although the author’s note does clarify why Joe was portrayed as he was, it would have helped if there were more flashbacks about the good times they had.
The lack of communication and miscommunication tropes were used brilliantly and were apt for the plot.
If you love older protagonists’ love stories and a fan of forced proximity with some relatable characters then you will enjoy this.
April 19, 2025
3 stars ✨
From the get go I really enjoyed the writing, it was digestible without being simple or juvenile. Rance also managed to write from a female perspective without it being weird or creepy, which is unfortunately rare. In saying that, I did feel that we knew our male main character, Joe, on a much deeper level than our female main character, Freya.
I appreciated the mental health representation and it was written tastefully. Additionally, it was nice to see LGBTQ+ rep.
The middle of the book was too slow, and it took me a little longer than normal to read it. The reunification at the end felt instantaneous. It was like they had sex and then everything was perfect, and that is not a realistic or true. Though I imagine that’s the way a man’s brain works; it was just a weak and honestly odd ending.
Thank you to NetGalley and Canelo for providing me with this ARC.
From the get go I really enjoyed the writing, it was digestible without being simple or juvenile. Rance also managed to write from a female perspective without it being weird or creepy, which is unfortunately rare. In saying that, I did feel that we knew our male main character, Joe, on a much deeper level than our female main character, Freya.
I appreciated the mental health representation and it was written tastefully. Additionally, it was nice to see LGBTQ+ rep.
The middle of the book was too slow, and it took me a little longer than normal to read it. The reunification at the end felt instantaneous. It was like they had sex and then everything was perfect, and that is not a realistic or true. Though I imagine that’s the way a man’s brain works; it was just a weak and honestly odd ending.
Thank you to NetGalley and Canelo for providing me with this ARC.
April 27, 2025
I got this book from NetGallery. This is my honest review.
The book is about Freya and Joe. They decide to separate but for financial reasons and to support their daughter in her final year of school they decide to keep living together for six months. Joe decides to write a book about the situations that arise but he doesn't tell her.
The book is about the struggles they encounter along the way.
Despite a somewhat heavy subject I found it an entertaining book to read. You read from both sides how they experience things or why they do something. I really liked that. I thought it would be a standard ending but I was wrong.
I just thought that writing a book would be a bit more in the foreground but that is more of a background story. Not bad in itself but I had different expectations.
I thought it was a nice book to read. Thank you for letting me read it.
The book is about Freya and Joe. They decide to separate but for financial reasons and to support their daughter in her final year of school they decide to keep living together for six months. Joe decides to write a book about the situations that arise but he doesn't tell her.
The book is about the struggles they encounter along the way.
Despite a somewhat heavy subject I found it an entertaining book to read. You read from both sides how they experience things or why they do something. I really liked that. I thought it would be a standard ending but I was wrong.
I just thought that writing a book would be a bit more in the foreground but that is more of a background story. Not bad in itself but I had different expectations.
I thought it was a nice book to read. Thank you for letting me read it.
May 24, 2025
For nineteen years they’ve been wed
But now they’re to separate instead
Though together they’ll stay for six months more
Until their daughter leaves university life to explore.
He’s a sitcom writer who has been encouraged to start
Writing a series based on a family falling apart.
Much is based on his family life now.
Can he keep it from Freya, his still wife, somehow?
A story filled with secrets and family dramas, too,
As this couple, their daughter and friends work their way through.
Will revelations help bring them back together
Or will they really part forever?
A story told from their points of view
Sharing their feelings and concerns they’re going through.
Can they rekindle their romance?
Will they give each other another chance?
For my copy of this book I say thank you
As I share with you this, my honest review.
But now they’re to separate instead
Though together they’ll stay for six months more
Until their daughter leaves university life to explore.
He’s a sitcom writer who has been encouraged to start
Writing a series based on a family falling apart.
Much is based on his family life now.
Can he keep it from Freya, his still wife, somehow?
A story filled with secrets and family dramas, too,
As this couple, their daughter and friends work their way through.
Will revelations help bring them back together
Or will they really part forever?
A story told from their points of view
Sharing their feelings and concerns they’re going through.
Can they rekindle their romance?
Will they give each other another chance?
For my copy of this book I say thank you
As I share with you this, my honest review.
April 22, 2025
If you like second chance romance and forced proximity tropes, you may like this book. I usually love forced proximities and was so excited for this book based on the premise. However, personally for me, the execution fell a bit flat. I had a tough time connecting to the characters, and I was just waiting for the book to end. It felt like Joe was the real main character of the book because he had great character growth, but Freya seemed one-dimensional. It felt like everything was being blamed on Joe, which may or may not have been intentional, but it felt unfair for Joe.
Thanks to NetGalley and Hera Romance for the ARC!
Thanks to NetGalley and Hera Romance for the ARC!
May 22, 2025
This was a cute story of a couple on the verge of ending their marriage. I chuckled several times as I was reading. I much preferred the husband to the wife here. I felt that he also grew much more than she did. Maybe it’s because this was a male author he did a better job characterizing the husband and the ways he would evolve.
I also liked the daughter and the role she played.
I don’t read lots of romance novels but I liked this one a lot. The story was relatable and modern.
If you like rom coms then you should give this one a go.
I also liked the daughter and the role she played.
I don’t read lots of romance novels but I liked this one a lot. The story was relatable and modern.
If you like rom coms then you should give this one a go.
May 24, 2025
Always a hit
I don't think I've read 1 of his books that I didn't like & this one is no different. Another that he hit right out of the park. Well done, and an easy read that everyone should pick up
I don't think I've read 1 of his books that I didn't like & this one is no different. Another that he hit right out of the park. Well done, and an easy read that everyone should pick up
May 26, 2025
I enjoyed reading this rom com very much and it has a lot to offer.
If you would like to read my full review please visit my blog at:
https://leftontheshelfbookblog.blogsp...
If you would like to read my full review please visit my blog at:
https://leftontheshelfbookblog.blogsp...
July 1, 2025
This was a relatable second chance romance that reminds you sometimes if things get a little rocky you just need to work things out. Definitely a lot of miscommunication.
May 26, 2025
Good read as always by this author.
Cant wait for the next book release by Jon Rance
Cant wait for the next book release by Jon Rance
May 22, 2025
Reviewed for NetGalley:
Freya and Joe come to terms their marriage is ending. But when the reality of living and funding separate lives, not to mention sharing a daughter, they decide to stay in the family home.
Joe, down on his luck career wise, begins writing his real life mishaps onto the screen, and is quickly surprised to find interest in his life come to screen. Only drawback while making nice with Freya, he never cared to mention he is sharing all their secrets into his new show. Will this make or break them again, while they are slowly finding why they fell in love in the first place?
Overall a sweet read to breeze through.
Freya and Joe come to terms their marriage is ending. But when the reality of living and funding separate lives, not to mention sharing a daughter, they decide to stay in the family home.
Joe, down on his luck career wise, begins writing his real life mishaps onto the screen, and is quickly surprised to find interest in his life come to screen. Only drawback while making nice with Freya, he never cared to mention he is sharing all their secrets into his new show. Will this make or break them again, while they are slowly finding why they fell in love in the first place?
Overall a sweet read to breeze through.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews