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Girls Just Want to Have Sun
A laugh-out-loud, sun-soaked romantic comedy full of mishaps, mayhem and margaritas ☀️🍹 'Hilarious' Jenny Colgan The perfect beach read for fans of Sophie Kinsella, Lindsey Kelk and Olivia Spring She never expected to find herself in Benidorm. But when life gives you lemons, add a shot of tequila...
Connie’s singing career isn’t exactly going to plan. On a final warning from her agent and failing every big audition, she’s desperate for a fresh start. So when she lands a last-minute gig in Benidorm (of all places) she jumps at the chance – despite knowing she’s completely out of her depth.
Thrown into the wild world of the Dollz, a cocktail-fuelled girl group who love glitter as much as they love drama, Connie struggles to fit in. Then there’s Matteo – the brooding, annoyingly attractive local who seems to be everywhere she turns, throwing her further off course.
As she stumbles through a week of sun, surprises and absolute chaos, Connie has to is this rock bottom, or can she find her own way to shine?
A hilarious, feel-good novel about finding your confidence, chasing your dreams, and embracing the unexpected.
Shortlisted for the Comedy Women in Print Award
Readers love Jo Lyon's sun-soaked, laugh-out-loud
'Once I started reading I couldn't stop. Practically reading through the night laughing' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review
'If you want to belly laugh your way through a book then this is the one for you! Full of sunshine, hilarious mishaps, love, heart warming friendships and a good bit of raunchiness' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review
'If you are a fan of romantic comedy then this book is the summer read for you! Some of the funniest scenes I’ve ever read' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review
'Jo Lyons has really hit the mark with this laugh out loud romantic comedy.' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review
Previously published as Benidorm, Actually
Connie’s singing career isn’t exactly going to plan. On a final warning from her agent and failing every big audition, she’s desperate for a fresh start. So when she lands a last-minute gig in Benidorm (of all places) she jumps at the chance – despite knowing she’s completely out of her depth.
Thrown into the wild world of the Dollz, a cocktail-fuelled girl group who love glitter as much as they love drama, Connie struggles to fit in. Then there’s Matteo – the brooding, annoyingly attractive local who seems to be everywhere she turns, throwing her further off course.
As she stumbles through a week of sun, surprises and absolute chaos, Connie has to is this rock bottom, or can she find her own way to shine?
A hilarious, feel-good novel about finding your confidence, chasing your dreams, and embracing the unexpected.
Shortlisted for the Comedy Women in Print Award
Readers love Jo Lyon's sun-soaked, laugh-out-loud
'Once I started reading I couldn't stop. Practically reading through the night laughing' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review
'If you want to belly laugh your way through a book then this is the one for you! Full of sunshine, hilarious mishaps, love, heart warming friendships and a good bit of raunchiness' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review
'If you are a fan of romantic comedy then this book is the summer read for you! Some of the funniest scenes I’ve ever read' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review
'Jo Lyons has really hit the mark with this laugh out loud romantic comedy.' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review
Previously published as Benidorm, Actually
- GenresRomance
310 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 14, 2025
126 people are currently reading
155 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
May 15, 2025
2.5 rounded up. Thank you NetGalley for an e-arc of this book in exchange for an honest review. This book was just not for me. The plot was fine but nothing special but the characters were so unlikable. I kept reading in hopes that there would be some growth and redemption but it just didn’t happen. The Dollz especially seemed so unrealistic to me and every time you thought they are learning something they don’t change. The first few accidents happening were funny I guess but they just kept happening to the point it felt predictable after a while and way overdone.
June 16, 2025
I need more Jo Lyons in my life. I need more Connie, Matteo and Dollz in my life!! I devoured this in the audiobook in a day. I couldn't stop listening to the book. I was hooked.
I must admit, like everyone, you aren't going to like the Dollz to begin with. I mean, at the end, you still might not, but I loved the camaraderie at the end. Yes, they were selfish at the beginning; they left Connie, and I was outraged for her. From the cringy airplane trip, to black eyes, concussions, sick around the poolside. I was hooting and having a whale of a time. My only gripe is I couldn't see the Dollz perform or Connie sing! I can imagine from the descriptions that it was magical.
You just know anytime the Dollz need to be somewhere, there is carnage. Everything you imagine that could go wrong does. I just don't know how it happened! It was spectacular! These girls do need to learn a little bit from their actions and look around further than themselves. Connie is a diamond amongst the rough, and I loved to see her grow.
I adored this book. I loved this book. I want more, and I am here for anything that Jo might write. She really does have a way with words; she gives you a story that you are invested in and that gives you an escape for a few hours.
I must admit, like everyone, you aren't going to like the Dollz to begin with. I mean, at the end, you still might not, but I loved the camaraderie at the end. Yes, they were selfish at the beginning; they left Connie, and I was outraged for her. From the cringy airplane trip, to black eyes, concussions, sick around the poolside. I was hooting and having a whale of a time. My only gripe is I couldn't see the Dollz perform or Connie sing! I can imagine from the descriptions that it was magical.
You just know anytime the Dollz need to be somewhere, there is carnage. Everything you imagine that could go wrong does. I just don't know how it happened! It was spectacular! These girls do need to learn a little bit from their actions and look around further than themselves. Connie is a diamond amongst the rough, and I loved to see her grow.
I adored this book. I loved this book. I want more, and I am here for anything that Jo might write. She really does have a way with words; she gives you a story that you are invested in and that gives you an escape for a few hours.
June 8, 2025
If you want a book that will have you giggling on the sunlounger while beside the pool, then I think you have found your holiday read!
A rom-com that gives so much com that I found myself laughing out loud at several points!
Connie is a singer, stuck in a rut. She's still grieving the loss of her mother and desperately trying to fit into the hole her mother left in the singing world. but nothing is going right.
Her manager, Nancy give a last chance opportunity to her, to travel to Benidorm for a week, replacing a popular tribute act, with the Dollz as her warm-up act.
The moment we meet the Dollz, you know they aren't going to let any part of this working break be boring! Their outlandish makeup and outfits, sudden group 'slut drops', and pure party girl mentality are a touch too far removed from Connie's usual life.
And the journey starts with explosive moments, including Connie making quite an impression on the passenger sitting next to her, and not in the most positive of manners!
There is drama, some funny situations and plenty of twists as Connie seems to mess up all her opportunities, both with her career and potential lovelife.
The Dollz; yeah, maybe a tad too over the top, but they certainly never let anything get boring...
And Connie? She gets there, in the end!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an ARC.
A rom-com that gives so much com that I found myself laughing out loud at several points!
Connie is a singer, stuck in a rut. She's still grieving the loss of her mother and desperately trying to fit into the hole her mother left in the singing world. but nothing is going right.
Her manager, Nancy give a last chance opportunity to her, to travel to Benidorm for a week, replacing a popular tribute act, with the Dollz as her warm-up act.
The moment we meet the Dollz, you know they aren't going to let any part of this working break be boring! Their outlandish makeup and outfits, sudden group 'slut drops', and pure party girl mentality are a touch too far removed from Connie's usual life.
And the journey starts with explosive moments, including Connie making quite an impression on the passenger sitting next to her, and not in the most positive of manners!
There is drama, some funny situations and plenty of twists as Connie seems to mess up all her opportunities, both with her career and potential lovelife.
The Dollz; yeah, maybe a tad too over the top, but they certainly never let anything get boring...
And Connie? She gets there, in the end!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an ARC.
May 5, 2025
The frequency of my reading updates are chaotic, but oh well.
This was a easy to read, funny little summery book. (I would consider it a rom-com.)
Where this story shines is really with the characters, not so much the plot. I did want a little more oomph from the plot, but at the end of the day, I am a character-based reader. I can forgive a lot if you give me some entertaining and likable characters. These characters are funny and bounce off of each other well, main and side characters!
And I do find it to be rare to find both the main characters and the side characters equally fun and interesting. They all brought something to the table.
This was a very fun read, I just wanted more from the actual story and its pacing. But I can see a lot of people loving this, especially as a casual little summer beach read.
Thanks to NetGalley for the e-ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
This was a easy to read, funny little summery book. (I would consider it a rom-com.)
Where this story shines is really with the characters, not so much the plot. I did want a little more oomph from the plot, but at the end of the day, I am a character-based reader. I can forgive a lot if you give me some entertaining and likable characters. These characters are funny and bounce off of each other well, main and side characters!
And I do find it to be rare to find both the main characters and the side characters equally fun and interesting. They all brought something to the table.
This was a very fun read, I just wanted more from the actual story and its pacing. But I can see a lot of people loving this, especially as a casual little summer beach read.
Thanks to NetGalley for the e-ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
May 19, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advanced copy in exchange for my opinion.
Connie is down on her luck. She's depressed over her mother's death. She tanked her audition. And she just lost her singing job. But the next day her boss offers her a chance to redeem herself. A popular singer has had to bow out of a job, so Connie is offered a chance to be his replacement. She travels to Benidorm for a week accompanied by the Dollz, her opening act. These 5 ladies are opposite of Connie--they are loud, they are free-spirited, they love to drink, and they don't seem to take their jobs seriously. Can Connie survive the week with her career and her dignity intact?
If you are looking for a fun summer romance, this is it! It has been a long time since I laughed out loud during a book. The story was a comedy of errors. Connie reminded me of Mia in the Princess Diaries. Just when you think things couldn't get any more messed up...guess again! I love how the Dollz helped Connie evolve as a person and as a singer. The only thing that could've been better was her relationship with Matteo. I felt it could have been fleshed out a little bit more. It went from hate/annoyance to attraction to love fairly quickly. Overall, it was a lighthearted, feel good read.
Connie is down on her luck. She's depressed over her mother's death. She tanked her audition. And she just lost her singing job. But the next day her boss offers her a chance to redeem herself. A popular singer has had to bow out of a job, so Connie is offered a chance to be his replacement. She travels to Benidorm for a week accompanied by the Dollz, her opening act. These 5 ladies are opposite of Connie--they are loud, they are free-spirited, they love to drink, and they don't seem to take their jobs seriously. Can Connie survive the week with her career and her dignity intact?
If you are looking for a fun summer romance, this is it! It has been a long time since I laughed out loud during a book. The story was a comedy of errors. Connie reminded me of Mia in the Princess Diaries. Just when you think things couldn't get any more messed up...guess again! I love how the Dollz helped Connie evolve as a person and as a singer. The only thing that could've been better was her relationship with Matteo. I felt it could have been fleshed out a little bit more. It went from hate/annoyance to attraction to love fairly quickly. Overall, it was a lighthearted, feel good read.
August 9, 2025
Connie is a classically trained singer whose career is going nowhere when her agent offers her a job in Benidorm, singing in a club.
Immediately assuming the worst of the resort and the people there, a host of unfortunate events start the minute she arrives at the airport and meets her "excitable" back up band.
The Dollz were just hilarious but I'm not sure I'm brave enough to go away with them!
In between drinking, utter carnage and flirting with the hottest man she's ever seen, Connie comes to realise that Benidorm isn't what she thought it would be, and that actually maybe she belongs here too.
I loved the slow burn between Connie and Matteo and the way he so patiently dealt with whatever nightmare situation they found themselves in.
This is the perfect summer read and one you won't be able to put down
Immediately assuming the worst of the resort and the people there, a host of unfortunate events start the minute she arrives at the airport and meets her "excitable" back up band.
The Dollz were just hilarious but I'm not sure I'm brave enough to go away with them!
In between drinking, utter carnage and flirting with the hottest man she's ever seen, Connie comes to realise that Benidorm isn't what she thought it would be, and that actually maybe she belongs here too.
I loved the slow burn between Connie and Matteo and the way he so patiently dealt with whatever nightmare situation they found themselves in.
This is the perfect summer read and one you won't be able to put down
August 2, 2025
3.5 rounded up 😎
May 9, 2025
This book is the ultimate girly rom-com extra helping of com. I loved the summer party holiday feel but with a deeper emotional plot that was so fun to read. It was a book of self discovery, self love and grief but with funny, original characters and humour that it gave the story balance. This was such a funny read from the start with a few cringy and awkward scenes that just added to the humour of the book.
I loved the main character Mateo from the start and the hurricane that was Connie as she attempted to fit in with the Dollz. This book was entertaining from start to finish and had the perfect pacing that I really got lost in the girls holiday feel. The author perfectly captured the feel of brits in Benidorm and the Dolz were the perfect group to bring Connie out of her shell. I will definitely need to check out more by this author. The writing was so easy to enjoy and funny.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I loved the main character Mateo from the start and the hurricane that was Connie as she attempted to fit in with the Dollz. This book was entertaining from start to finish and had the perfect pacing that I really got lost in the girls holiday feel. The author perfectly captured the feel of brits in Benidorm and the Dolz were the perfect group to bring Connie out of her shell. I will definitely need to check out more by this author. The writing was so easy to enjoy and funny.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
June 20, 2025
My Initial Thoughts
I knew I was going to love this, after the first few chapters! I was giggling so much at Mr Window Seat guys misfortunes. The chaos that erupts just in the first 5 or so chapters just sets the tone for the rest of the book and I knew I was going to be in a great place while reading. The Dollz was actually madness, like a bunch of feral toddlers on the loose and poor Connie, trying to pick up the pieces.
Plot
I love the slowness of this, it was like watching a romance fall perfectly in place, despite the obstacles in their way. There was so much comedy in every time Matteo and Connie was together. Not to mention The Dollz and the nuns. There was so much laughter, that was much needed. The development for Connie’s character and travelling through her grief is also a big part of the storyline which Jo writes in spectacularly.
Characters
I loved the characters, The Dollz, although self-centred, do have some heart and love for Connie in their own way. Nacho and Matteo add the elements of males, with their own need and helpfulness to Connie, Nacho bringing her out of her comfort zone and Matteo being the romance interest. I was so zoned in on Connie’s journey through grief and lost, no matter how much time has passed and it was a journey that she conquered and then some.
Recommend
If you need a laugh, romance, and to watch a characters journey to discovering themselves again, pick this up!!!
Favourite Quote
“We are responsible for our own happiness and success. Don’t rely on anyone to make it happen for you.”
Favourite Chapter/s
My favourite chapters were 3,6,13 and 14.
Summed up in one sentence
The wholehearted laughter I didn’t know I needed.
Overall Wrap up
I was in need of so much humour, and this hit the spot and then some! I loved everything about this and was giggling non-stop and the chaos that followed Connie was just hilarious and the cave scene had me in fits. There was a part that shocked me and I was not happy but its soon fixed and the love is there again. All in all this was an awesome rom-com!
Stars & Spice – 5 stars and 2 chilli spices.
Book Information – Girls Just Want To Have Sun by Jo Lyons.
Genre – Rom-Com.
Pages – 310 pages.
Tropes –
Grumpy x sunshine.
Brooding MMC.
Travelling through grief.
Available on Kindle Unlimited – Yes this is available on kindle unlimited!
Available Formats – Available on kindle, audiobook, paperback and hardcover.
Publishing Information – Published on 14th June 2025 by Boldwood Books.
Format in Which I Read – I read this on my kindle.
Where my copy come From – My copy came from Netgallery.
POVs – This is written in a single POV, just Connies.
Single/Dual/Multiple Timelines – This is written on a single timeline.
1st, 2nd or 3rd person – This is written in 1st person.
HEA, HFN or Cliff hanger – This ends in a HEA.
Series or Standalone – Girls Just Want To Have Sun is the first book in The Girls series.
Trigger Warnings – Please check content warnings before reading if necessary and please always remember that your mental health matters.
I knew I was going to love this, after the first few chapters! I was giggling so much at Mr Window Seat guys misfortunes. The chaos that erupts just in the first 5 or so chapters just sets the tone for the rest of the book and I knew I was going to be in a great place while reading. The Dollz was actually madness, like a bunch of feral toddlers on the loose and poor Connie, trying to pick up the pieces.
Plot
I love the slowness of this, it was like watching a romance fall perfectly in place, despite the obstacles in their way. There was so much comedy in every time Matteo and Connie was together. Not to mention The Dollz and the nuns. There was so much laughter, that was much needed. The development for Connie’s character and travelling through her grief is also a big part of the storyline which Jo writes in spectacularly.
Characters
I loved the characters, The Dollz, although self-centred, do have some heart and love for Connie in their own way. Nacho and Matteo add the elements of males, with their own need and helpfulness to Connie, Nacho bringing her out of her comfort zone and Matteo being the romance interest. I was so zoned in on Connie’s journey through grief and lost, no matter how much time has passed and it was a journey that she conquered and then some.
Recommend
If you need a laugh, romance, and to watch a characters journey to discovering themselves again, pick this up!!!
Favourite Quote
“We are responsible for our own happiness and success. Don’t rely on anyone to make it happen for you.”
Favourite Chapter/s
My favourite chapters were 3,6,13 and 14.
Summed up in one sentence
The wholehearted laughter I didn’t know I needed.
Overall Wrap up
I was in need of so much humour, and this hit the spot and then some! I loved everything about this and was giggling non-stop and the chaos that followed Connie was just hilarious and the cave scene had me in fits. There was a part that shocked me and I was not happy but its soon fixed and the love is there again. All in all this was an awesome rom-com!
Stars & Spice – 5 stars and 2 chilli spices.
Book Information – Girls Just Want To Have Sun by Jo Lyons.
Genre – Rom-Com.
Pages – 310 pages.
Tropes –
Grumpy x sunshine.
Brooding MMC.
Travelling through grief.
Available on Kindle Unlimited – Yes this is available on kindle unlimited!
Available Formats – Available on kindle, audiobook, paperback and hardcover.
Publishing Information – Published on 14th June 2025 by Boldwood Books.
Format in Which I Read – I read this on my kindle.
Where my copy come From – My copy came from Netgallery.
POVs – This is written in a single POV, just Connies.
Single/Dual/Multiple Timelines – This is written on a single timeline.
1st, 2nd or 3rd person – This is written in 1st person.
HEA, HFN or Cliff hanger – This ends in a HEA.
Series or Standalone – Girls Just Want To Have Sun is the first book in The Girls series.
Trigger Warnings – Please check content warnings before reading if necessary and please always remember that your mental health matters.
June 23, 2025
This book was cute. There was a lot of second hand embarrassment happening and a few cringe worthy moments but all in good humor. If I had to give it a category it would be a feel good summer read. While this wasn't the most exciting book it definitely is light hearted. It's all told from Connie's perspective.
Connie is a singer who's on her last chance with her manager because she's been on a downward spiral since her mom died a few years ago. She's been struggling and mainly just existing instead of living. On her last chance, it's to fill in for a cover singer with a band called The Dollz. Her two best friends encourage her to take this chance and use it to the fullest, so she does. But The Dollz are on the opposite end of the spectrum from Connie where they are all party and no discipline. When they get on the plane to head to their destination she meets Matteo. But none of their meetings are easy because something always goes wrong. Throughout this journey Connie is struggling to live life to the fullest but is desperate to make it work.
The Dollz got on my last nerve for most of the book but their chaotic behavior grew on me towards the last third of the book. I wouldn't say they were my favorite people in the story but Cherry had to be my favorite of the girl group. They were a hot mess but even through their chaos they seem to be like that life long crazy friend.
Connie's roommates were my favorite side characters. They have so much love and drama running through them that everytime they were in the story I would burst out laughing. Nacho was another one. He was very vain but it never rubbed you the wrong way. He was just too adorable.
Connie was a hot mess too and her struggle was probably the most realistic thing about this story. Her character development felt genuine and you could see each growth and back peddle because overcoming grief or depression is never a straight line. Her cringy moments really made me feel it and the amount of ohh my god or ohh no's I repeated throughout this book had to be over a few dozen. Matteo was adorable and you can't help but love him even when you want him to make a move so badly.
All in all, super cute summer read.
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC!
Connie is a singer who's on her last chance with her manager because she's been on a downward spiral since her mom died a few years ago. She's been struggling and mainly just existing instead of living. On her last chance, it's to fill in for a cover singer with a band called The Dollz. Her two best friends encourage her to take this chance and use it to the fullest, so she does. But The Dollz are on the opposite end of the spectrum from Connie where they are all party and no discipline. When they get on the plane to head to their destination she meets Matteo. But none of their meetings are easy because something always goes wrong. Throughout this journey Connie is struggling to live life to the fullest but is desperate to make it work.
The Dollz got on my last nerve for most of the book but their chaotic behavior grew on me towards the last third of the book. I wouldn't say they were my favorite people in the story but Cherry had to be my favorite of the girl group. They were a hot mess but even through their chaos they seem to be like that life long crazy friend.
Connie's roommates were my favorite side characters. They have so much love and drama running through them that everytime they were in the story I would burst out laughing. Nacho was another one. He was very vain but it never rubbed you the wrong way. He was just too adorable.
Connie was a hot mess too and her struggle was probably the most realistic thing about this story. Her character development felt genuine and you could see each growth and back peddle because overcoming grief or depression is never a straight line. Her cringy moments really made me feel it and the amount of ohh my god or ohh no's I repeated throughout this book had to be over a few dozen. Matteo was adorable and you can't help but love him even when you want him to make a move so badly.
All in all, super cute summer read.
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC!
May 15, 2025
Well I think I have found a new favourite author! This was completely and utterly hilarious and is the sort of book that should be read on everyone's summer holidays.
It's just a whole lot of fun, and I was laughing out loud within the first 10% which doesn't happen that often. There is something about this author's way with words and how she describes the utterly bonkers situations that Connie and Matteo continually find themselves in that is just so so funny.
And we get a great feel for the main strip in Benidorm, I can't say I will definitely add it to my holiday plans in the next couple of years, as I don't think I drink enough to get the full benefit, but the amount of tribute acts about, makes me thing I'd enjoy some of the entertainment on the strip!
Connie and the Dollz are like chalk and cheese, and seeing how their relationships change over the course of the week is really heartening to see. They start with the Dollz treating Connie as their skivvy, and then forgetting she exists and leaving places without her. But as dramas ensue on the strip that never sleeps, and with a high energy week ahead of them, partying hard and allegedly working, things do improve.
Although the amount of farcical drama in this is brilliant.
In fact this would make a fabulous rom-com film for the big screen, I would love to see the Dollz actually do their amazing routings, and seeing them strut around in some outrageous costumes.
I couldn't get enough of this book and I was over the moon to discover this is just the first book of a trilogy. I literally can't wait to read the others.
This is 100% my sort of book, it is so entertaining and is brilliant light hearted escapism. Simply superb!
Thank you to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
It's just a whole lot of fun, and I was laughing out loud within the first 10% which doesn't happen that often. There is something about this author's way with words and how she describes the utterly bonkers situations that Connie and Matteo continually find themselves in that is just so so funny.
And we get a great feel for the main strip in Benidorm, I can't say I will definitely add it to my holiday plans in the next couple of years, as I don't think I drink enough to get the full benefit, but the amount of tribute acts about, makes me thing I'd enjoy some of the entertainment on the strip!
Connie and the Dollz are like chalk and cheese, and seeing how their relationships change over the course of the week is really heartening to see. They start with the Dollz treating Connie as their skivvy, and then forgetting she exists and leaving places without her. But as dramas ensue on the strip that never sleeps, and with a high energy week ahead of them, partying hard and allegedly working, things do improve.
Although the amount of farcical drama in this is brilliant.
In fact this would make a fabulous rom-com film for the big screen, I would love to see the Dollz actually do their amazing routings, and seeing them strut around in some outrageous costumes.
I couldn't get enough of this book and I was over the moon to discover this is just the first book of a trilogy. I literally can't wait to read the others.
This is 100% my sort of book, it is so entertaining and is brilliant light hearted escapism. Simply superb!
Thank you to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
May 22, 2025
Margaritas, mayhem, and a whole lot of glitter—Girls Just Want to Have Sun is a sun-soaked chaotic delight that had me laughing out loud from chapter one. This book is exactly what you want in a summer romcom: vibrant, hilarious, heartwarming, and just the right amount of ridiculous.
Connie is a classically trained singer whose career is circling the drain. After a string of flopped auditions and a rapidly evaporating reputation, she lands a last-minute gig in Benidorm (yes, that Benidorm) and figures she has nothing left to lose. What she doesn’t expect? A room full of glitter bombs known as the Dollz—a girl group of pure chaos—and a moody, maddeningly hot local named Matteo who has her off-key in more ways than one.
What starts off as Connie’s last-ditch effort to save her career turns into a wild ride of self-discovery, unlikely friendships, emotional healing, and—of course—a bit of romance under the Spanish sun. Jo Lyons masterfully balances humor and heart here. You’ll laugh at the disasters, cringe at the awkward moments (in the best way), and root for Connie as she learns to find her voice again—on stage and off.
The Dollz are outrageous and lovable, Matteo is grumpy-perfection, and Connie? She’s messy, funny, relatable, and just trying to get her life together with a mic in one hand and a tequila shot in the other. There are some truly touching moments around grief, resilience, and friendship that add depth to the glittery chaos.
If you love Portia MacIntosh, Sophie Ranald, or Sophie Gravia, Girls Just Want to Have Sun deserves a spot in your beach bag. It’s the perfect romcom for readers who like their laughs loud, their drama sparkly, and their love stories with just a touch of karaoke.
Big thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the ARC!
Now excuse me while I try to join the Dollz.
Connie is a classically trained singer whose career is circling the drain. After a string of flopped auditions and a rapidly evaporating reputation, she lands a last-minute gig in Benidorm (yes, that Benidorm) and figures she has nothing left to lose. What she doesn’t expect? A room full of glitter bombs known as the Dollz—a girl group of pure chaos—and a moody, maddeningly hot local named Matteo who has her off-key in more ways than one.
What starts off as Connie’s last-ditch effort to save her career turns into a wild ride of self-discovery, unlikely friendships, emotional healing, and—of course—a bit of romance under the Spanish sun. Jo Lyons masterfully balances humor and heart here. You’ll laugh at the disasters, cringe at the awkward moments (in the best way), and root for Connie as she learns to find her voice again—on stage and off.
The Dollz are outrageous and lovable, Matteo is grumpy-perfection, and Connie? She’s messy, funny, relatable, and just trying to get her life together with a mic in one hand and a tequila shot in the other. There are some truly touching moments around grief, resilience, and friendship that add depth to the glittery chaos.
If you love Portia MacIntosh, Sophie Ranald, or Sophie Gravia, Girls Just Want to Have Sun deserves a spot in your beach bag. It’s the perfect romcom for readers who like their laughs loud, their drama sparkly, and their love stories with just a touch of karaoke.
Big thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the ARC!
Now excuse me while I try to join the Dollz.
Read
June 10, 2025I like the premise for this book quite a bit. Our main character, Connie, is grieving her mother, and it's impacting her work. She is a trained singer who seems to only be able to sing terribly sad songs, regardless of the occasion. She is given one last chance to save her job (or really her representation) by going to a week-long gig in a party town in Spain. There she meets her support act, "The Dollz," who all have other jobs and view singing as a fun hobby. Once in Spain, our main character learns how to live her life, be herself again, find love, and process her grief over her mother's passing.
With all of that said, the beginning of the book is hard because Connie comes off as extremely pretentious and does not listen to what others say. She performs super sad songs at an anniversary party, because she thinks she knows better than her agent and her client. She looks down on other singers, The Dollz, and basically everyone she meets. With that, The Dollz are incredibly off-putting as well. They don't seem to respect anyone or anything. They steal things from stores in the airport, they disregard the boarding announcement for their plane, and then they are talking so loudly on the plane that the flight attendants aren't able to conduct the safety announcements, etc. They also treat Connie like trash and are just really unprofessional.
Around 50% of the way through the book, Connie and The Dollz become more palatable, but it takes a while to get there. I don't know if I would have finished this book if I hadn't agreed to read it in exchange for the ARC.
Again, the story's premise is good. It was just really hard to have such unlikable and immature characters at the very beginning of the story. It was hard to find anyone to root for, and I didn't really want to hear anything they had to say.
With all of that said, the beginning of the book is hard because Connie comes off as extremely pretentious and does not listen to what others say. She performs super sad songs at an anniversary party, because she thinks she knows better than her agent and her client. She looks down on other singers, The Dollz, and basically everyone she meets. With that, The Dollz are incredibly off-putting as well. They don't seem to respect anyone or anything. They steal things from stores in the airport, they disregard the boarding announcement for their plane, and then they are talking so loudly on the plane that the flight attendants aren't able to conduct the safety announcements, etc. They also treat Connie like trash and are just really unprofessional.
Around 50% of the way through the book, Connie and The Dollz become more palatable, but it takes a while to get there. I don't know if I would have finished this book if I hadn't agreed to read it in exchange for the ARC.
Again, the story's premise is good. It was just really hard to have such unlikable and immature characters at the very beginning of the story. It was hard to find anyone to root for, and I didn't really want to hear anything they had to say.
June 12, 2025
3.5* rounded down
When I received a copy of this novel from NetGalley, I was excited. A beachy rom-com set in Spain sounds exactly in line with what I’d like to read on a Sunday morning outside in the sun with my dog. It delivered, but not in quite the way I imagined.
There’s a cast of zany girls to add colour and two hot leading men to form a love triangle. The protagonist was just not likeable though. I feel terrible saying that about a fictional character, so obviously they felt real enough. Her mother has died and she misses her terribly; I know this, but it didn’t feel like that at all. She was so whiny all the time.
She sabotaged her own life after her mother’s illness and death and takes zero culpability for said sabotage. Of course you’re going to lose work if you sing sad ballads at a party where you’re meant to be singing party tunes! And no, your mother dying isn’t an excuse to cry over strangers that are paying you to provide uplifting entertainment. You’re not the victim; you are the problem.
Aside from her questionable personality, there wasn’t any description about what she looked like, which left it to my imagination. I don’t know how I feel about that honestly. I see the benefits of letting the reader see themselves in the character but I prefer a more sketched out version of her physically to better understand how she looks in relation to her new coworkers, the Dollz.
I liked this novel and it wasn’t a difficult read. It was a fun girl’s trip with the usual rom-com tropes and a happily ever after. I think it would work absolutely brilliantly as a movie; kind of a new age Bridget Jones type comedy. It worked less well as a book, but read it so we can see it as a movie!
When I received a copy of this novel from NetGalley, I was excited. A beachy rom-com set in Spain sounds exactly in line with what I’d like to read on a Sunday morning outside in the sun with my dog. It delivered, but not in quite the way I imagined.
There’s a cast of zany girls to add colour and two hot leading men to form a love triangle. The protagonist was just not likeable though. I feel terrible saying that about a fictional character, so obviously they felt real enough. Her mother has died and she misses her terribly; I know this, but it didn’t feel like that at all. She was so whiny all the time.
She sabotaged her own life after her mother’s illness and death and takes zero culpability for said sabotage. Of course you’re going to lose work if you sing sad ballads at a party where you’re meant to be singing party tunes! And no, your mother dying isn’t an excuse to cry over strangers that are paying you to provide uplifting entertainment. You’re not the victim; you are the problem.
Aside from her questionable personality, there wasn’t any description about what she looked like, which left it to my imagination. I don’t know how I feel about that honestly. I see the benefits of letting the reader see themselves in the character but I prefer a more sketched out version of her physically to better understand how she looks in relation to her new coworkers, the Dollz.
I liked this novel and it wasn’t a difficult read. It was a fun girl’s trip with the usual rom-com tropes and a happily ever after. I think it would work absolutely brilliantly as a movie; kind of a new age Bridget Jones type comedy. It worked less well as a book, but read it so we can see it as a movie!
June 15, 2025
Connie is a singer stuck in a rut and her agent sends her off to Benidorm to fill in for an Ed Sheeran tribute act. I’ve got to admit, I can’t get excited for a Sheeran tribute act but Connie is in a bad way with a level of grief for her mum which she’s struggling to get out of. Can a term on the Costa Blanca help our leading lady?!
The short trip Connie is sent on is a game changer, from UK airport to the village she stays in. Her life changes from the second she meets the Dollz. They are a force to be reckoned with, escaping their day to day life to perform on a stage to drunken crowds. I loved their exuberance but cringed at some of their antics given their home life!
This is a glorious journey that Connie goes on. It’s tough at times but she learns a lot about herself and her attitude to life. I did identify with Connie to an extent, she’s not a risk taker, she goes with the crowd but she’s a rule follower (yes they are some of my downfalls – particularly the first and last).
I thought I’d had a previous taster of Jo Lyon’s’ writing prior to heading to Benidorm but Goodreads tells me differently. That said, I loved my trip to the Costa Blanca and went through Connie’s emotional rollercoaster as she tried to organise the Dollz, deal with her pervy landlord and fight her desire for the man who could send her home at the drop of a hat! Cracking fun read! Looking forward to more from Jo Lyons!!
The short trip Connie is sent on is a game changer, from UK airport to the village she stays in. Her life changes from the second she meets the Dollz. They are a force to be reckoned with, escaping their day to day life to perform on a stage to drunken crowds. I loved their exuberance but cringed at some of their antics given their home life!
This is a glorious journey that Connie goes on. It’s tough at times but she learns a lot about herself and her attitude to life. I did identify with Connie to an extent, she’s not a risk taker, she goes with the crowd but she’s a rule follower (yes they are some of my downfalls – particularly the first and last).
I thought I’d had a previous taster of Jo Lyon’s’ writing prior to heading to Benidorm but Goodreads tells me differently. That said, I loved my trip to the Costa Blanca and went through Connie’s emotional rollercoaster as she tried to organise the Dollz, deal with her pervy landlord and fight her desire for the man who could send her home at the drop of a hat! Cracking fun read! Looking forward to more from Jo Lyons!!
June 4, 2025
I wanna start off by saying thank you to both the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC of this book for my honest opinion.
I wanna start off by saying I am not usually a negative reviewer when it comes to rating books but I spent 90% of the time not knowing what the heck was going on in this story.
The Dollz? I still cannot tell you which is which, what they do, or their personalities. It was so hard to keep track of each of them and whenever they did or said something I couldn’t figure out who that one was. And the ways they treated Connie and she just took it? ANNOYING. And some of the Dollz did fat shame during the story when talking about outfits for the stage.
The FMC? She had absolutely no personality except woah is me and I am an opera singer. And the fact that her and Matteo fell in love? HOW! All they did is cause accidents together. They never actually got to know each other. She had better chances of falling for nacho when they were interacting.
Overall I do not feel like this story had any body to it and that there was multiple unnecessary moving parts. I usually do not DNF books as I always hope my opinion would change but this one would have definitely been one I did.
I wanna start off by saying I am not usually a negative reviewer when it comes to rating books but I spent 90% of the time not knowing what the heck was going on in this story.
The Dollz? I still cannot tell you which is which, what they do, or their personalities. It was so hard to keep track of each of them and whenever they did or said something I couldn’t figure out who that one was. And the ways they treated Connie and she just took it? ANNOYING. And some of the Dollz did fat shame during the story when talking about outfits for the stage.
The FMC? She had absolutely no personality except woah is me and I am an opera singer. And the fact that her and Matteo fell in love? HOW! All they did is cause accidents together. They never actually got to know each other. She had better chances of falling for nacho when they were interacting.
Overall I do not feel like this story had any body to it and that there was multiple unnecessary moving parts. I usually do not DNF books as I always hope my opinion would change but this one would have definitely been one I did.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 3, 2025
Everything about this book was too over the top for me. The characters felt like caricatures and the situations they found themselves in were just too out there. I couldn't feel the attraction between Connie and Matteo, either, at least not emotionally, and the characters seemed to keep getting rewarded for their totally unprofessional behaviour. I know it's meant to be a fun summer read and probably not meant to be taken too seriously, but it just didn't work for me.
I also thought it was kind of strange that it was highlighted that Matteo didn't have a Spanish accent and was fluent in English, while for Nacho this was not the case and somehow that seemed to be one of the things that made Matteo more attractive to Connie in comparison. What would be wrong with him not being totally fluent in English, or having an accent? But maybe that was just so that she could be surprised that he was from Benidorm and not a tourist.
I have to say that even though in general the crazy situations the characters found themselves in were annoying to me, there were some genuinely funny moments that made me laugh, and some sweet moments between Connie and the Dollz. I just wished that I could have enjoyed the whole book more.
I also thought it was kind of strange that it was highlighted that Matteo didn't have a Spanish accent and was fluent in English, while for Nacho this was not the case and somehow that seemed to be one of the things that made Matteo more attractive to Connie in comparison. What would be wrong with him not being totally fluent in English, or having an accent? But maybe that was just so that she could be surprised that he was from Benidorm and not a tourist.
I have to say that even though in general the crazy situations the characters found themselves in were annoying to me, there were some genuinely funny moments that made me laugh, and some sweet moments between Connie and the Dollz. I just wished that I could have enjoyed the whole book more.
August 5, 2025
In this chaotic and entertaining holiday romance novel, readers follow struggling singer Connie as she tries to save her career after failing her auditions and getting constant warnings from her agent. Sent to Benidorm to work with the Dollz, a hilarious and glittery girl group who live for the drama, Connie struggles to fit in and do what she must to save her career, and she continues to literally run into Matteo, an attractive local who always seems to be where Connie is to witness her screwups. As she muddles through the work trip and tries to find her stride, Connie has to figure out what she really wants and how she will get back on her feet (literally and figuratively). The characters are the absolute stars of this book, and the chaotic, occasionally cringey moments will make readers sympathize with Connie and her emotional journey. The emotional beats are well-written and the level of drama and intensity is just right. Readers will particularly enjoy the chaos of Connie’s time in Benidorm and the chemistry between Connie and Matteo and Connie and the Dollz in this hilarious and spicy but heartwarming new novel -- perfect as a vacation read or escapist entertainment -- from Jo Lyons.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advance copy.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advance copy.
May 21, 2025
Thanks to Boldwood Books for the advanced reader copy of this book via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Wow this book was a rollercoaster! Amazingly I could literally envision this entire book and I haven't even been to Benidorm. That being said, Connie must literally have the worst luck in the world. If I was Matteo I would be sending her straight home on a plane cause she seems like very bad news. The first few accidents seemed funny and a bit fated but they just kept happening! I really felt sorry for her at points as she was clearly struggling with grief and depression and noone was really supporting that, but overall the trip definitely seemed to help her find herself even if it did all happen within a week. The Dollz were absolute characters and honestly chaotic, they never seemed to make any progress and I couldn't really grasp what they were adding to the story positively. Although I definitely want friends like Ged & Liam! I weirdly don't really know what to think of this book but it definitely gave me some giggles.
Wow this book was a rollercoaster! Amazingly I could literally envision this entire book and I haven't even been to Benidorm. That being said, Connie must literally have the worst luck in the world. If I was Matteo I would be sending her straight home on a plane cause she seems like very bad news. The first few accidents seemed funny and a bit fated but they just kept happening! I really felt sorry for her at points as she was clearly struggling with grief and depression and noone was really supporting that, but overall the trip definitely seemed to help her find herself even if it did all happen within a week. The Dollz were absolute characters and honestly chaotic, they never seemed to make any progress and I couldn't really grasp what they were adding to the story positively. Although I definitely want friends like Ged & Liam! I weirdly don't really know what to think of this book but it definitely gave me some giggles.
July 14, 2025
Connie who has recently lost her mother and is still reeling from that is worries that her signing career has stalled and that myabe it will never take off like she wants. Connie's agent offers her a last chance to prove herself and sends her Benidorm, where she is to perform with a group called the Dollz. Connie is nowhere near ready for the drinking and antics that these girls get up to and wonders if this trip will be the grand finale of her career. Meanwhile she has met Matteo a handsome stranger who she embarrasses herself in front of repreatedly and whom she just cannot seem to stop runing into.
This author always writes cute, fun, laugh out loud books. Such great summer beach reads, a nice little palate cleanser for the more intense books that I read, sometimes, you just want a book that will make you giggle.
Thank you to Netgalley, thepubl;ishing house Boldwood Books, and the author for the opportunity to read a complimentary copy of this book in return for a review based upon my honest opinion.
This author always writes cute, fun, laugh out loud books. Such great summer beach reads, a nice little palate cleanser for the more intense books that I read, sometimes, you just want a book that will make you giggle.
Thank you to Netgalley, thepubl;ishing house Boldwood Books, and the author for the opportunity to read a complimentary copy of this book in return for a review based upon my honest opinion.
May 22, 2025
This is a laugh out loud summer read that will actually have you laughing out loud (not just have you loudly exhaling while reading). There are multiple mishaps as well as moments that had you feeling for Connie. Although Connie is not my favorite character, you see how grief can hit you in ways you could not imagine. As she was picking up the pieces to her life, finding her path and finding her literal voice she comes into contact with a group of people who bring her out of her slump. Connie would not have picked Nacho or the Dollz to part of her grief journey but they were vital to how she learns to navigate life without her Mom earthside. Matteo was also integral to the story but I wish his dynamic with Alex played out differently (a little more backstory, timeline, and more protectiveness over Connie). In the end this was a fantastic summer read that has more depth then the usual "rom-com".
June 12, 2025
I enjoyed this book it’s part of 4 book series and good it’s like brits in Benidorm
She never expected to find herself in Benidorm. But when life gives you lemons, add a shot of tequila...
Connie’s singing career isn’t exactly going to plan. On a final warning from her agent and failing every big audition, she’s desperate for a fresh start. So when she lands a last-minute gig in Benidorm (of all places) she jumps at the chance – despite knowing she’s completely out of her depth.
Thrown into the wild world of the Dollz, a cocktail-fuelled girl group who love glitter as much as they love drama, Connie struggles to fit in. Then there’s Matteo – the brooding, annoyingly attractive local who seems to be everywhere she turns, throwing her further off course.
As she stumbles through a week of sun, surprises and absolute chaos, Connie has to decide: is this rock bottom, or can she find her own way to shine?
She never expected to find herself in Benidorm. But when life gives you lemons, add a shot of tequila...
Connie’s singing career isn’t exactly going to plan. On a final warning from her agent and failing every big audition, she’s desperate for a fresh start. So when she lands a last-minute gig in Benidorm (of all places) she jumps at the chance – despite knowing she’s completely out of her depth.
Thrown into the wild world of the Dollz, a cocktail-fuelled girl group who love glitter as much as they love drama, Connie struggles to fit in. Then there’s Matteo – the brooding, annoyingly attractive local who seems to be everywhere she turns, throwing her further off course.
As she stumbles through a week of sun, surprises and absolute chaos, Connie has to decide: is this rock bottom, or can she find her own way to shine?
May 28, 2025
This is a short, breezy read that’s ideal for a beach day, following grief-stricken singer Connie as she finds herself on an unexpectedly wild adventure performing in Benidorm with the larger-than-life girl group, The Dollz. The story dives straight into outrageous antics, with each chapter ramping up the chaos and comedy.
It’s clear why this book has been getting great reviews—there’s plenty of fun and flair, and readers looking for an over-the-top escapist romp will likely enjoy the ride. Personally, though, I found myself cringing more than chuckling. As much as I wanted to love The Dollz and join in the madness, the humor and style just weren’t quite my thing.
Thank you to Boldwood Books and Jo Lyons for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
📚 Follow me on TikTok for more reviews — @LacedinLit 🩷
It’s clear why this book has been getting great reviews—there’s plenty of fun and flair, and readers looking for an over-the-top escapist romp will likely enjoy the ride. Personally, though, I found myself cringing more than chuckling. As much as I wanted to love The Dollz and join in the madness, the humor and style just weren’t quite my thing.
Thank you to Boldwood Books and Jo Lyons for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
📚 Follow me on TikTok for more reviews — @LacedinLit 🩷
June 4, 2025
The premise of this book sounded like it would be an entertaining book.
Connie's singing career has tanked. She is classically trained and has not been able to recover since the loss of her mom to cancer. She is given an unexpected opportunity to headline a music festival but has a unique cast of women as her support band.
There were some hits in this book for me. I thought the chemistry between Connie and Matteo was fun. But the over-the-top extreme repetitive antics of the Dollz felt unbelievable and contrived. If Connie said one more time that she was classically trained and the gig was below her, I would have screamed.
I feel like the book had possibility and that the editing was more of the issue than the writing.
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Connie's singing career has tanked. She is classically trained and has not been able to recover since the loss of her mom to cancer. She is given an unexpected opportunity to headline a music festival but has a unique cast of women as her support band.
There were some hits in this book for me. I thought the chemistry between Connie and Matteo was fun. But the over-the-top extreme repetitive antics of the Dollz felt unbelievable and contrived. If Connie said one more time that she was classically trained and the gig was below her, I would have screamed.
I feel like the book had possibility and that the editing was more of the issue than the writing.
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 7, 2025
Connie is a classically trained singer, but since the rain passed away a few years ago, she’s found herself stuck in a rut and the she performs she reduces the audience to tears, not the triumphs she was going for. With a last chance to save her career, she heads off to Benidorm where along with The Dollz, they have seven nights in which to put on the shows of their lives. The Dollz are loud, brash and crass, the kind of people you see at the airport and hope aren’t on the same flight as you. Connie’s character did infuriate me for most of the time and as much as I wanted to hate The Dollz, you soon find yourself chuckling along. It’s cringy and funny in equal measures but there’s an undercurrent of female solidarity and new beginnings and I read it in less than a day. I would rate it 3.5 stars. Thank you to NetGalley, Boldwood Books and the author for the chance to review.
August 30, 2025
Girls Just Want to Have Sun is a fun romcom with great main characters and very lively sidekicks. Connie is down on her luck and a tour with the Dollz is her last chance to stay musically employed. She's shocked to find her tour mates are loud, wild, inconsiderate, and selfish. The exact opposite of Connie. What is supposed to be a 7-day concert tour turns into a huge mess and Connie is a ball of anxiety. Connie is certain her career is over.
If you can get past Connie being a bit of a pushover and the Dollz being the ones to do the pushing, you'll enjoy this breezy, summer read. It's not complicated, is easy to follow, and has you rooting for Connie and Matteo. They get along as well as oil and water at the beginning but fate tosses them into each other's paths - quite literally.
If you're looking for an entertaining beach read, add Girls Just Want to Have Sun to your list.
If you can get past Connie being a bit of a pushover and the Dollz being the ones to do the pushing, you'll enjoy this breezy, summer read. It's not complicated, is easy to follow, and has you rooting for Connie and Matteo. They get along as well as oil and water at the beginning but fate tosses them into each other's paths - quite literally.
If you're looking for an entertaining beach read, add Girls Just Want to Have Sun to your list.
June 2, 2025
I understand why "Girls Just Want to Have Sun" is receiving high reviews. This lighthearted summer novel humorously follows the chaotic story of Connie, a classically trained musician who dreams of joining the Royal Northern Sinfonia. However, her manager sends her to Benidorm where she either has to succeed or fail. There, Connie finds herself performing with the Dollz, a flamboyant and drunken group that is the complete opposite of her usual singing style. The week-long trip is filled with disaster after another, and I found the Dollz to be overwhelming. While I did laugh a few times, I ultimately wasn't a fan of the book or its story. Thank you to NetGalley, Boldwood Books, and Jo Lyons for the advanced ARC copy for my honest review.
June 16, 2025
Girls Just Want to Have Sun is a lighthearted, laugh-out-loud summer read. Connie’s down on her luck—grieving her mom, flopping an audition, and losing her singing gig—until she’s offered a last-minute chance to perform in Benidorm. She’s joined by the Dollz, a wild and carefree girl group who are nothing like her. Chaos, comedy, and unexpected friendships follow.
This book gave me major Princess Diaries vibes, with plenty of hilarious mishaps and heartfelt moments. I especially loved seeing Connie grow with the help of the Dollz. My only wish? A bit more development in her romance with Matteo—it moved a little too fast. Still, it’s a fun, feel-good escape perfect for summer.
A big thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
This book gave me major Princess Diaries vibes, with plenty of hilarious mishaps and heartfelt moments. I especially loved seeing Connie grow with the help of the Dollz. My only wish? A bit more development in her romance with Matteo—it moved a little too fast. Still, it’s a fun, feel-good escape perfect for summer.
A big thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 22, 2025
Losing her Mum brought Connie down
But singing sad songs just brings on a frown.
Her agent has had enough of the lows
So off to Benidorm Connie goes!
Meeting other performers on her way there
Gives Connie something like a bad scare.
This sets the tone for their acts, too,
What on earth should Connie do?
On the plane journey she met Matteo, too,
Not knowing his role or what he’d do!
With new roles, new gigs and surprises galore
Connie has new opportunities to explore.
A fun read despite starting with so much grief
Showing living life to the full can change your belief
New experiences, new friendships and so much more
Make this too delightful a read to ignore!
For my copy of this book I say thank you
As I share with you this my honest review.
But singing sad songs just brings on a frown.
Her agent has had enough of the lows
So off to Benidorm Connie goes!
Meeting other performers on her way there
Gives Connie something like a bad scare.
This sets the tone for their acts, too,
What on earth should Connie do?
On the plane journey she met Matteo, too,
Not knowing his role or what he’d do!
With new roles, new gigs and surprises galore
Connie has new opportunities to explore.
A fun read despite starting with so much grief
Showing living life to the full can change your belief
New experiences, new friendships and so much more
Make this too delightful a read to ignore!
For my copy of this book I say thank you
As I share with you this my honest review.
August 31, 2025
This feel-good romcom is a sparkling mix of chaos, charm, and character growth — with just the right dose of heart.
Connie’s journey from failed auditions to a whirlwind week in Benidorm with the glitter-loving girl group "The Dollz" is as hilarious as it is uplifting. There’s plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, backstage drama, and slow-burn tension with a brooding local, Matteo. But beyond the mishaps and mayhem is a sweet story about rediscovering your confidence and finding your place in the world.
This book delivers sunshine, humor, and a heroine who learns to shine in her own (sparkly) way — no spotlight or stage fright required. A joyful escape with a lot of heart.
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
Connie’s journey from failed auditions to a whirlwind week in Benidorm with the glitter-loving girl group "The Dollz" is as hilarious as it is uplifting. There’s plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, backstage drama, and slow-burn tension with a brooding local, Matteo. But beyond the mishaps and mayhem is a sweet story about rediscovering your confidence and finding your place in the world.
This book delivers sunshine, humor, and a heroine who learns to shine in her own (sparkly) way — no spotlight or stage fright required. A joyful escape with a lot of heart.
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
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