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The Friendship Fling
"The Friendship Fling
is fun, feisty, and sexy—I really loved it! The characters have such brilliant chemistry, and it’s the perfect escapist novel to curl up with.”—Emily Stone, bestselling author of
Always, in December
and
A Winter Wish
In this delightfully charming and heartfelt debut love story, two lonely and wildly different strangers embark on a short-term friendship over one London summer—only to discover they may be something more by the time the season ends.
No one would ever call Ava Monroe a people person, which isn’t ideal for a barista in a busy London coffee shop. She’s sarcastic, blunt, and cynical, and her relationships are strictly no strings attached. With her best friend Josie soon leaving for a year, Ava knows she’ll be all alone unless she shakes up her routine. But she can’t risk bringing chance back into her carefully controlled life.
Then insufferably cheerful, country-hopping, undeniably gorgeous Finn O’Callaghan rolls into her coffee shop with a horrifying proposal —a strictly friends-only summer fling. Finn needs a local to help him complete his London bucket list, and Ava needs to reassure Josie she won’t be on her own. And it’s only for a few months.
To Ava’s surprise, their mismatched friendship of convenience becomes oddly tolerable, and as they work their way through Finn’s list and around the sun-drenched city, from rooftops and floating bars to nights at the museum, their adventures—and Finn’s company—start to feel . . . nice. Incredibly, terrifyingly, dangerously nice.
Still, rules are rules—Ava has good reasons for them—and as the days get shorter, Finn’s departure gets closer. Because that’s the thing about it always ends. Right?
In this delightfully charming and heartfelt debut love story, two lonely and wildly different strangers embark on a short-term friendship over one London summer—only to discover they may be something more by the time the season ends.
No one would ever call Ava Monroe a people person, which isn’t ideal for a barista in a busy London coffee shop. She’s sarcastic, blunt, and cynical, and her relationships are strictly no strings attached. With her best friend Josie soon leaving for a year, Ava knows she’ll be all alone unless she shakes up her routine. But she can’t risk bringing chance back into her carefully controlled life.
Then insufferably cheerful, country-hopping, undeniably gorgeous Finn O’Callaghan rolls into her coffee shop with a horrifying proposal —a strictly friends-only summer fling. Finn needs a local to help him complete his London bucket list, and Ava needs to reassure Josie she won’t be on her own. And it’s only for a few months.
To Ava’s surprise, their mismatched friendship of convenience becomes oddly tolerable, and as they work their way through Finn’s list and around the sun-drenched city, from rooftops and floating bars to nights at the museum, their adventures—and Finn’s company—start to feel . . . nice. Incredibly, terrifyingly, dangerously nice.
Still, rules are rules—Ava has good reasons for them—and as the days get shorter, Finn’s departure gets closer. Because that’s the thing about it always ends. Right?
Audible Audio
First published February 3, 2024
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About the author
Georgia Stone
1 book248 followersGeorgia Stone is a London-based author of contemporary romance. She writes love stories that she hopes make people laugh out loud and clutch at their hearts in equal measure.
She very much appreciates that being a fiction author is essentially just a socially acceptable way of having imaginary friends.
She very much appreciates that being a fiction author is essentially just a socially acceptable way of having imaginary friends.
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October 23, 2023I don't know how to do any of this from the author's side but I wrote a book and it is now on Goodreads and that is WILD! I can't wait for you all to read it.
If my little book baby makes you laugh/cry/clutch your chest in a fit of overwhelm (etc.) then I've done my job well. I really hope you love it. ♡ And if you don't... please make your mean reviews funny. I wanna be included on those '1-star reviews of books I loved' posts.
Anyway, I am a very professional author doing very professional things, so all I have left to say is THANK YOU BYE HAVE FUN.
If my little book baby makes you laugh/cry/clutch your chest in a fit of overwhelm (etc.) then I've done my job well. I really hope you love it. ♡ And if you don't... please make your mean reviews funny. I wanna be included on those '1-star reviews of books I loved' posts.
Anyway, I am a very professional author doing very professional things, so all I have left to say is THANK YOU BYE HAVE FUN.
September 15, 2025
READING IS BACK BABYYY 🤭
Georgia, idk how you actually wrote my personality into miss Ava Monroe.
But I am her, and she is me.
Being mean to men? Check.
A bit of a mess? Check.
Hating hinge but never deleting it? Check.
Twilight being your comfort watch(but now preferring Charlie to Edward)? Double check.
Uncomfortable with people getting close, hyper independent and self isolating? Check. Check. Check.
(Someone who probably should get more hobbies? okay, yes fine also check.)
At times there was actually a scarily amount of similarities. And whilst I know I’m not actually the inspiration for Ava… I immediately do wish to become besties with whoever that is. I fear that might be my soulmate.
This book had me giggling, screaming into my pillow in the middle of the night, shed some tears but most of all quickly reading page after page wanting more Finn and Ava whilst simultaneously never wanting it to end.
(You already know I’ll be first in line for Max and Dylan’s book🌝)
✧ ‘Why are you looking at me like that?’
‘Like what?’ He snaps his head forward, the corner of his mouth lifting.
‘With those eyes.’
‘Sorry. I’ll try to look at you without my eyes next time.’ ✧
Finn and Ava are my new roman empire.
This book is very british in the dry humour, setting and overall character building - so with that said, I cannot promise it will be everyone’s cup of tea(pun intended, yes i’m embarrassed) - but everyone who loves this, I fuck with you. I want to be your friend.
It was straight up my alley, everything from the humour, to the friendships to the actual romance. The yearning in this book should not be overlooked. It genuinely twisted my stomach up - in the best possible way.
✧ ’I think perhaps it’s an acquired taste,’ he suggests.
‘Acquire some taste, then’ ✧
”Don’t you think you’re could be judging them too harshly?”
Another thing me and Ava have in common. The amount of times I’ve received this question.
I do have high standards, and I do not plan on lowering them. In fact, Finley O’Callaghan successfully raised my standards. I will in fact be comparing any and all future dates to this man.
He is bright, thoughtful, cheesy, kind - mostly acts like a small puppy or a kid high on sugar… but he manages to make it look good.
Might be his brown eyes and glasses, the scruff too (his slutty little pyjama pants are also a valid contender)… but mostly I just think it’s him, wearing his heart on his sleeve, caring for and being patient with someone who doesn’t love easily.
✦ ‘You didn’t friendzone me. That makes it sound like only being your friend is a demotion, somehow. As if it’s not my favourite thing to be.’ ✦
Bear with me as I force all of my friends to read this. Thanks 🙂↕️
_________
°. *࿐pre-read:
i need a little giggle pls
Georgia, idk how you actually wrote my personality into miss Ava Monroe.
But I am her, and she is me.
Being mean to men? Check.
A bit of a mess? Check.
Hating hinge but never deleting it? Check.
Twilight being your comfort watch(but now preferring Charlie to Edward)? Double check.
Uncomfortable with people getting close, hyper independent and self isolating? Check. Check. Check.
(
At times there was actually a scarily amount of similarities. And whilst I know I’m not actually the inspiration for Ava… I immediately do wish to become besties with whoever that is. I fear that might be my soulmate.
✧ 'What's your favourite place you've lived?'
He leans back in his chair with a stretch. 'It changes. But you know what? London's making a case for itself right now.’
'Because of this bar' I offer, meeting his gaze over my glass.
He nods slowly, eyes boring into me. 'Sure. Because of this bar.’ ✧
This book had me giggling, screaming into my pillow in the middle of the night, shed some tears but most of all quickly reading page after page wanting more Finn and Ava whilst simultaneously never wanting it to end.
(You already know I’ll be first in line for Max and Dylan’s book🌝)
✧ ‘Why are you looking at me like that?’
‘Like what?’ He snaps his head forward, the corner of his mouth lifting.
‘With those eyes.’
‘Sorry. I’ll try to look at you without my eyes next time.’ ✧
Finn and Ava are my new roman empire.
This book is very british in the dry humour, setting and overall character building - so with that said, I cannot promise it will be everyone’s cup of tea(pun intended, yes i’m embarrassed) - but everyone who loves this, I fuck with you. I want to be your friend.
It was straight up my alley, everything from the humour, to the friendships to the actual romance. The yearning in this book should not be overlooked. It genuinely twisted my stomach up - in the best possible way.
✧ ’I think perhaps it’s an acquired taste,’ he suggests.
‘Acquire some taste, then’ ✧
”Don’t you think you’re could be judging them too harshly?”
Another thing me and Ava have in common. The amount of times I’ve received this question.
I do have high standards, and I do not plan on lowering them. In fact, Finley O’Callaghan successfully raised my standards. I will in fact be comparing any and all future dates to this man.
He is bright, thoughtful, cheesy, kind - mostly acts like a small puppy or a kid high on sugar… but he manages to make it look good.
Might be his brown eyes and glasses, the scruff too (his slutty little pyjama pants are also a valid contender)… but mostly I just think it’s him, wearing his heart on his sleeve, caring for and being patient with someone who doesn’t love easily.
✦ ‘You didn’t friendzone me. That makes it sound like only being your friend is a demotion, somehow. As if it’s not my favourite thing to be.’ ✦
Bear with me as I force all of my friends to read this. Thanks 🙂↕️
_________
°. *࿐pre-read:
i need a little giggle pls
July 8, 2025
☆☆☆☆
I really enjoyed The Friendship Fling! Georgia Stone delivers a warm, feel-good story with characters that are easy to root for—but what truly made this book stand out for me was Finn. He’s everything you want in a romance lead: thoughtful, grounded, and quietly magnetic. I found myself looking forward to every scene he was in.
The chemistry between the main characters was undeniable, and the emotional depth of their connection was handled with real care. The friends-to-lovers progression felt authentic, and the story had plenty of sweet, heartwarming moments.
That said, I’m knocking off one star because the slow burn was extremely slow. I usually don’t mind a gradual build, but this one tested my patience. The payoff was satisfying when it finally came, but I do wish things had progressed a little sooner to keep the momentum strong throughout.
Still, this was a lovely, character-driven romance with characters I won’t forget anytime soon. Definitely worth the read!
I really enjoyed The Friendship Fling! Georgia Stone delivers a warm, feel-good story with characters that are easy to root for—but what truly made this book stand out for me was Finn. He’s everything you want in a romance lead: thoughtful, grounded, and quietly magnetic. I found myself looking forward to every scene he was in.
The chemistry between the main characters was undeniable, and the emotional depth of their connection was handled with real care. The friends-to-lovers progression felt authentic, and the story had plenty of sweet, heartwarming moments.
That said, I’m knocking off one star because the slow burn was extremely slow. I usually don’t mind a gradual build, but this one tested my patience. The payoff was satisfying when it finally came, but I do wish things had progressed a little sooner to keep the momentum strong throughout.
Still, this was a lovely, character-driven romance with characters I won’t forget anytime soon. Definitely worth the read!
December 13, 2025
Most romcoms either try and fail to be funny or are downright cringe, but this was an exception. It was a romance, yes, but I don’t remember when was the last time a book made me laugh so much.
Finn and Ava decide to be friends and not in that cringe let’s-not-have-sex-just-yet-even-though-we-both-want-it way that we so often see in romance. None of them wants a relationship, especially since Finn is leaving at the end of summer anyway. Ava only agrees to help him with his London bucket list…
I always love a good grumpy sunshine story, especially the reverse type. Finn was such a sweet cinnamon roll, I wanted to hug him. I loved their dynamic and chemistry, but what truly shone was the banter. I don’t often laugh out loud when reading, but this was next level hilarious.
I really hope that Julien and Max are getting their books too, because I want more.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
——
Thanks Hodder & Stoughton and NetGalley for the arc❤️
Finn and Ava decide to be friends and not in that cringe let’s-not-have-sex-just-yet-even-though-we-both-want-it way that we so often see in romance. None of them wants a relationship, especially since Finn is leaving at the end of summer anyway. Ava only agrees to help him with his London bucket list…
I always love a good grumpy sunshine story, especially the reverse type. Finn was such a sweet cinnamon roll, I wanted to hug him. I loved their dynamic and chemistry, but what truly shone was the banter. I don’t often laugh out loud when reading, but this was next level hilarious.
I really hope that Julien and Max are getting their books too, because I want more.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
——
Thanks Hodder & Stoughton and NetGalley for the arc❤️
November 17, 2025
This is hands down one of the funniest, banter-is-bantering, romance books I’ve read in a LONG time! We’re talking banter so STRONG, even in the middle of the sexy scene, it has me simultaneously laughing out loud and gasping at how sexy it is!
The absolute PERFECT summer read
What’s to love…
- Grade A banter
- friends to lovers
- SLOW BURN (like, really, really slow & ultra delicious)
- THE TENSION!
- Laugh out loud funny
- reverse grumpy/sunshine
- great side characters
- great pacing
- dual POV
What’s not to love…
- I’m withholding the last .5 only because I was able to put this down and then not pick it up again for over a week.
4.5⭐️| IG | TikTok |
Thank you NetGalley and Harper Perennial for the eARC. All opinions are my own.
The absolute PERFECT summer read
What’s to love…
- Grade A banter
- friends to lovers
- SLOW BURN (like, really, really slow & ultra delicious)
- THE TENSION!
- Laugh out loud funny
- reverse grumpy/sunshine
- great side characters
- great pacing
- dual POV
What’s not to love…
- I’m withholding the last .5 only because I was able to put this down and then not pick it up again for over a week.
4.5⭐️| IG | TikTok |
Thank you NetGalley and Harper Perennial for the eARC. All opinions are my own.
June 3, 2025
✦ ✦ ✦ ✧ ✧
june 3, 2025
arc review
The Friendship Fling is a slow burn, strangers to lovers romance book set in London. We follow Ava, a coffee shop worker, who meets Finn, a golden retriever type in an opposites attract situation. Finn is only staying in London for a short time while searching for a new job, so Ava acts as his tour guide for the time being, helping him check off his bucket list. This book explores the consequences of the lines of friendship being crossed, especially when it can’t last. Overall, I enjoyed this book, but it was very predictable. Throughout the book, I felt like the book was following the exact plot line that I had imagined in my head, with no plot twists in sight. I did think it was very cute, however, and I did enjoy how even though they were opposites in every way, they still were able to support each other. As an American myself, it was also interesting to see what British people think of Americans from a different perspective.
Features-
- Friends to lovers
- Slow burn
- She’s grumpy, he’s sunshine
- Third act breakup
- Golden retriever x black cat
- Summer romance
- Closed door (some fade to black)
- Found family
~currently reading~
waitttt… are you telling me she’s grumpy and she’s sunshine?? 🥹🥹
another cutesy romcom!
features -
- strangers/friends to lovers
- found family
- summer fling
- opposites attract
- broken boundaries 😌😌
>> thank you to netgalley and the publisher for an arc! all thoughts are my own <3
june 3, 2025
arc review
The Friendship Fling is a slow burn, strangers to lovers romance book set in London. We follow Ava, a coffee shop worker, who meets Finn, a golden retriever type in an opposites attract situation. Finn is only staying in London for a short time while searching for a new job, so Ava acts as his tour guide for the time being, helping him check off his bucket list. This book explores the consequences of the lines of friendship being crossed, especially when it can’t last. Overall, I enjoyed this book, but it was very predictable. Throughout the book, I felt like the book was following the exact plot line that I had imagined in my head, with no plot twists in sight. I did think it was very cute, however, and I did enjoy how even though they were opposites in every way, they still were able to support each other. As an American myself, it was also interesting to see what British people think of Americans from a different perspective.
Features-
- Friends to lovers
- Slow burn
- She’s grumpy, he’s sunshine
- Third act breakup
- Golden retriever x black cat
- Summer romance
- Closed door (some fade to black)
- Found family
~currently reading~
waitttt… are you telling me she’s grumpy and she’s sunshine?? 🥹🥹
another cutesy romcom!
features -
- strangers/friends to lovers
- found family
- summer fling
- opposites attract
- broken boundaries 😌😌
>> thank you to netgalley and the publisher for an arc! all thoughts are my own <3
July 17, 2025
“walking around with [you] is like walking around with someone who's running for mayor of nothing” - john mulaney (and ava about finn probably)
Bookstagram | Blog
Bookstagram | Blog
June 3, 2025
ava and finn are nearly strangers when they pinky promise to just stay friends. finn has one summer in london and they promised to complete his bucket list before his time is up. as the two of them fall deeper into friendship, they also start to develop decidedly unfriendly feelings towards each other but because of the friendship pact don’t act on them.
this book was a delicious slow burn and true friends to lovers. the pacing for them was perfect and I loved watching them slowly fall. I loved the traveling around london pieces and ava’s surly attitude while even having fun. finn is so patient and so kind and such a sunshine mmc and I loved him for that. this book was so sweet and tender!!
thank you harper perennial and harpercollins for the finished copy!
what to expect
⟢ friends to lovers
⟢ friendship pact only for the summer
⟢ traveling around london
⟢ slow burn
this book was a delicious slow burn and true friends to lovers. the pacing for them was perfect and I loved watching them slowly fall. I loved the traveling around london pieces and ava’s surly attitude while even having fun. finn is so patient and so kind and such a sunshine mmc and I loved him for that. this book was so sweet and tender!!
thank you harper perennial and harpercollins for the finished copy!
what to expect
⟢ friends to lovers
⟢ friendship pact only for the summer
⟢ traveling around london
⟢ slow burn
July 8, 2025
I'm in happy tears after reading this book..😭❤️
I knew from the moment I picked this book it's gonna be my favourite firstly because of the plot, secondly for the glorious book cover and lastly the playlist.
this book is like a cheesecake to me, how I felt wholesome after having a bite and I can't stop myself from eating the whole piece. that's how this book has filled me with happiness.
Finn and ava both are poles apart, where Finn is overly sunshiny goofball, ava is a grumpy one. yet both somehow agree to come into a friendship agreement where she's helping him complete his london's bucket list and he's being his friend outside the coffee shop.
this is such a fun, sweet and swoon-worthy story to read, meanwhile you get to read other people pov's too. which I think adds a little more ground to the book.
I'm really trying to tell much about the story without giving spoilers because trust me the book is worth reading each chapter.
and when in the ending I get to know we're getting Max's book next year I can't be more than happy to wait for it. he's one of bravest character mentioned in it and I'm curious to read his story.
I'm highly recommending this book to everyone who believes in giving love a chance, to explore what happens if you actually believe in "IF" .
I hope you enjoy reading as much I did. I would give up my memory to read this book again for the first time no doubt there.
I knew from the moment I picked this book it's gonna be my favourite firstly because of the plot, secondly for the glorious book cover and lastly the playlist.
this book is like a cheesecake to me, how I felt wholesome after having a bite and I can't stop myself from eating the whole piece. that's how this book has filled me with happiness.
Finn and ava both are poles apart, where Finn is overly sunshiny goofball, ava is a grumpy one. yet both somehow agree to come into a friendship agreement where she's helping him complete his london's bucket list and he's being his friend outside the coffee shop.
this is such a fun, sweet and swoon-worthy story to read, meanwhile you get to read other people pov's too. which I think adds a little more ground to the book.
I'm really trying to tell much about the story without giving spoilers because trust me the book is worth reading each chapter.
and when in the ending I get to know we're getting Max's book next year I can't be more than happy to wait for it. he's one of bravest character mentioned in it and I'm curious to read his story.
I'm highly recommending this book to everyone who believes in giving love a chance, to explore what happens if you actually believe in "IF" .
I hope you enjoy reading as much I did. I would give up my memory to read this book again for the first time no doubt there.
June 19, 2025
Let me tell you, witty writing is the easiest way to my heart. This was an absolute five star! It all begins with a friendship of convenience when Finn asks the reluctant barista Ava to help him complete his London bucket list before he leaves in the fall.
Finn was the ultimate golden retriever type (my weakness), so naturally I’m shelving him as a favourite MMC, right up there with Shep from Ready or Not by Cara Bastone and Henry from Passion Project by London Sperry. He’s super chatty, overly friendly, and just ridiculously lovable. And then there’s Ava, who brings a completely different energy with her cynical snark and guarded nature. Their dynamic was just so playful and unserious. I loved it. Even in the steamy scenes, the wit does not let up!
But even beyond the charm of two polar opposites adventuring through London, there’s such great emotional depth too. Both have their own insecurities, especially Finn, who is always on the run, never staying in one place for long. I loved the way they balanced each other. And the way Finn expresses his feelings is ... gosh, achingly adorable. Page 334. Sigh. I melted.
(heat level: 2 open-door scenes, moderate details)
Finn was the ultimate golden retriever type (my weakness), so naturally I’m shelving him as a favourite MMC, right up there with Shep from Ready or Not by Cara Bastone and Henry from Passion Project by London Sperry. He’s super chatty, overly friendly, and just ridiculously lovable. And then there’s Ava, who brings a completely different energy with her cynical snark and guarded nature. Their dynamic was just so playful and unserious. I loved it. Even in the steamy scenes, the wit does not let up!
But even beyond the charm of two polar opposites adventuring through London, there’s such great emotional depth too. Both have their own insecurities, especially Finn, who is always on the run, never staying in one place for long. I loved the way they balanced each other. And the way Finn expresses his feelings is ... gosh, achingly adorable. Page 334. Sigh. I melted.
(heat level: 2 open-door scenes, moderate details)
July 30, 2025
3.5 - got gifted this book because I recently went to London, and it’s was a very cute romance. However, it is a very slow burn, which for me ended up being a little too slow. The second half of the book really sped up and made up for the first half which I enjoyed. I also love a golden retriever MMC so finn was amazing. Ava the grumpy barista was awesome with her quick witted, depressing jokes, and look at life… related to her in lots of ways. overall I really did enjoy the story & the writing style of this new author that I hadn’t read before.
May 17, 2025
This is what I mean when I say I love black cat x golden retriever!!! I loved everything about this book. The characters, the summer in London setting, the plot, the BANTER!!!!!, the side characters, and the depth. The bucket list plot reminded me of Passion Project (my favorite) so I LOVED that. I absolutely LOVED(!!!!) both Ava and Finn and their relationship progression felt so REAL. They truly were strangers to the sweetest friends to lovers <3 I love a good slow burn and this gave me just that. The banter was also INSAAANE, I love nothing more than good banter, especially in this trope. Finn is truly a man down bad, a man obsessed, an angel golden retriever man. I LOVED HIM! And I loved Ava in all her prickliness, she made me laugh so much and I related a lot to her <3 her character growth was so good & Finn reminded me a lot of Charlie from Business Casual (another favorite) and he made my heart HURT. the side characters were fun and supportive and I cannot WAIT for a certain someone’s book!! I really did just love everything about this book. The best summer romance and easily a favorite of the year! Highly recommend adding to your tbr and picking up a copy of June 3!!! Thank you to the publisher for the arc!!
did-not-finish
December 5, 2025DNF @ 22%: really thought i was going to love this one bc it started so strong, but i just don't think i like the dynamic between the main characters as much as i had hoped i would. may try this one again someday but for now--onto the next!
April 27, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
Cute reverse grumpy sunshine story! She’s grumpy, he’s sunshine. For a debut, this was such a fun surprise. I didn’t know much going on but the story was great and the banter was fun! Just know it’s a slooooow burn and we needed more chapters from Finn. Otherwise, this will be a fun summer read!
Cute reverse grumpy sunshine story! She’s grumpy, he’s sunshine. For a debut, this was such a fun surprise. I didn’t know much going on but the story was great and the banter was fun! Just know it’s a slooooow burn and we needed more chapters from Finn. Otherwise, this will be a fun summer read!
July 13, 2025
➸літній роман
➸зворотні буркотун/сонечко
➸друзі лише на літо
➸він закохується першим
➸список бажань
➸слоубьорн
МЕНІ СПОДОБАЛОСЬ АБСОЛЮТНО ВСЕ! Персонажі, їхній розвиток, стосунки між ними, гумор, атмосфера. Давно я не читала щось такого теплого, світлого та життєвого. Не вірю, що це дебют.
Фінн – класичний золотистий ретривер. Милий, балакучий та непосидючий. Все життя він змушений переїжджати з місця на місце та все життя близькі його кидають. Моя ж солоденька булочка❤️ Я його обожнюю, мій новий книжковий бойфренд😘
Ава – саркастична та буркотлива бариста. Не любить людей, але для рідних віддасть останню сорочку.
Фінн в Лондоні лише на літо і має лист бажанок, щоб дослідити місто. А Аві потрібен фейковий друг, щоб її справжня подруга не думала, що Ава помре від самотності. Тож Ава і Фінн заключають пакт про дружбу на літо.
╰⪼ Мені сподобались їхні пригоди по Лондону. Я сумлінно все погуглила і наче разом з ними мандрувала.
╰⪼ Не знаю звідки пішло, що це ромком. Так, місцями було забавно і книга викликає посмішку. Але це не було як хтось написав у відгуку "не пам'ятаю коли востаннє так сміявся над книгою". В будь-якому разі, гумор це суб'єктивно, але майте на увазі, що він тут британський)
╰⪼ У гг різний життєвий досвід, але схожі загони. Відчайдушне бажання контролювати ситуацію та тримати дистанцію, щоб не отримати негативний досвід. Але авторці вдалось прописати дійсно здорові стосунки. І гг, і другорядні парочки "працюють над собою окремо, щоб стати краще один для одного". Тут є трохи цього вайбу right person, wrong time. Але класно, що герої подолали всі труднощі і зрештою отримали своє щастя.
╰⪼ Тут прям дууууже слоубьорн. Лише 1.5 спайсі сцени, але це гармонійно вписується в книгу. Мені сподобалось як розвивались їхні стосунки, як вони розкривались одне одному, а яка напруга та хімія між ними🔥 Ще додам, що тут найреалістичніший секс, який я читала. Ніяких порно-сцен з 10 оргазмами та волиною, як у коня.
P.S. Атмосфера та стосунки героїв нагадали мені Promise Me Sunshine by Cara Bastone. Можу сміливо радити книгу фанатам Ханни Бонам-Янг, Кари Бастон і можливо Еббі Хіменес.
➸зворотні буркотун/сонечко
➸друзі лише на літо
➸він закохується першим
➸список бажань
➸слоубьорн
МЕНІ СПОДОБАЛОСЬ АБСОЛЮТНО ВСЕ! Персонажі, їхній розвиток, стосунки між ними, гумор, атмосфера. Давно я не читала щось такого теплого, світлого та життєвого. Не вірю, що це дебют.
Фінн – класичний золотистий ретривер. Милий, балакучий та непосидючий. Все життя він змушений переїжджати з місця на місце та все життя близькі його кидають. Моя ж солоденька булочка❤️ Я його обожнюю, мій новий книжковий бойфренд😘
Ава – саркастична та буркотлива бариста. Не любить людей, але для рідних віддасть останню сорочку.
Фінн в Лондоні лише на літо і має лист бажанок, щоб дослідити місто. А Аві потрібен фейковий друг, щоб її справжня подруга не думала, що Ава помре від самотності. Тож Ава і Фінн заключають пакт про дружбу на літо.
╰⪼ Мені сподобались їхні пригоди по Лондону. Я сумлінно все погуглила і наче разом з ними мандрувала.
╰⪼ Не знаю звідки пішло, що це ромком. Так, місцями було забавно і книга викликає посмішку. Але це не було як хтось написав у відгуку "не пам'ятаю коли востаннє так сміявся над книгою". В будь-якому разі, гумор це суб'єктивно, але майте на увазі, що він тут британський)
╰⪼ У гг різний життєвий досвід, але схожі загони. Відчайдушне бажання контролювати ситуацію та тримати дистанцію, щоб не отримати негативний досвід. Але авторці вдалось прописати дійсно здорові стосунки. І гг, і другорядні парочки "працюють над собою окремо, щоб стати краще один для одного". Тут є трохи цього вайбу right person, wrong time. Але класно, що герої подолали всі труднощі і зрештою отримали своє щастя.
╰⪼ Тут прям дууууже слоубьорн. Лише 1.5 спайсі сцени, але це гармонійно вписується в книгу. Мені сподобалось як розвивались їхні стосунки, як вони розкривались одне одному, а яка напруга та хімія між ними🔥 Ще додам, що тут найреалістичніший секс, який я читала. Ніяких порно-сцен з 10 оргазмами та волиною, як у коня.
P.S. Атмосфера та стосунки героїв нагадали мені Promise Me Sunshine by Cara Bastone. Можу сміливо радити книгу фанатам Ханни Бонам-Янг, Кари Бастон і можливо Еббі Хіменес.
August 18, 2025
Y’all I just found another soul book. 5 fat shining stars! It is rare that I read a book where I relate to the FMC, and even more special to find a story where I see myself in both the FMC and MMC.
This is the best black cat x golden retriever I’ve ever read?! Ava is a sarcastic, grumpy badass who cares so deeply about the people she lets into her life. Now Finn freaking O’Callaghan. MY MAN!! Okay I mean first of all he wears glasses, so that should be enough explanation as to why I love him. But he is also just the most selfless, goofy, lovable man who puts everyone in his life above him (relatable content). The banter is top notch, and it was so fun to watch them go from strangers, to (begrudgingly for Ava) friends, to more. The little acts of care and love throughout the book had me swooning, especially when Ava helps Finn prep for his job interview, oh my god my heart was exploding.
For a book that takes place in London, this one had a random ode to San Francisco that I obviously loved as an SF gal myself. There was also reading disability rep which I always appreciate. Overall, this one was refreshing, snarky, and so fun, I highly recommend!
OG reaction:
How do I even describe a book that was everything to me? Loved everything about this one, easy 5⭐️ for me.
Full review to come 🫶🏻
This is the best black cat x golden retriever I’ve ever read?! Ava is a sarcastic, grumpy badass who cares so deeply about the people she lets into her life. Now Finn freaking O’Callaghan. MY MAN!! Okay I mean first of all he wears glasses, so that should be enough explanation as to why I love him. But he is also just the most selfless, goofy, lovable man who puts everyone in his life above him (relatable content). The banter is top notch, and it was so fun to watch them go from strangers, to (begrudgingly for Ava) friends, to more. The little acts of care and love throughout the book had me swooning, especially when Ava helps Finn prep for his job interview, oh my god my heart was exploding.
For a book that takes place in London, this one had a random ode to San Francisco that I obviously loved as an SF gal myself. There was also reading disability rep which I always appreciate. Overall, this one was refreshing, snarky, and so fun, I highly recommend!
OG reaction:
How do I even describe a book that was everything to me? Loved everything about this one, easy 5⭐️ for me.
Full review to come 🫶🏻
May 28, 2025
4 stars 🌟 this was so sweet!! i loved the black cat x golden retriever vibe finnava had so much 🇬🇧📝☕️ they were a pretty slow burn but the wait was 100% worth it ☺️ i loved that finn fell first and even when he couldn’t have ava romantically, he just wanted her in his life in any way 🥹 it was super adorable & i liked this a lot!
August 7, 2025
4.5 stars!!
This was such a fun, fresh, and enjoyable romance read! I loved the premise, the characters, and the dedication to the plot execution. Also, the entire dynamic between the fmc and mmc AND all of the lovely friends, too, was so fun to follow. I loved this and can't wait until the next one with the other characters!!
Georgia's debut is so lovely and is definitely a classic rom-com that I think so many romance readers will adore <3
This was such a fun, fresh, and enjoyable romance read! I loved the premise, the characters, and the dedication to the plot execution. Also, the entire dynamic between the fmc and mmc AND all of the lovely friends, too, was so fun to follow. I loved this and can't wait until the next one with the other characters!!
Georgia's debut is so lovely and is definitely a classic rom-com that I think so many romance readers will adore <3
June 4, 2025
Thank you Harper Perennial or sending me a free advance copy!
Ava isn’t exactly a people person which makes her job at a busy coffee shop a bit of a drag. Her friend and roomie, Josie, will be gone for a few months and she wants Ava to meet new people so she won’t be lonely. The always friendly Finn has a temporary job in London and has become a frequent customer at the coffee shop. He’d love for someone to show him the sites while he’s here. Hmm… maybe Finn and Ava can go explore London together.
The story uses the grumpy/sunshine trope and while typically it’s the male character with the gruff exterior, in this case Ava is the one fulfilling that role. She’s definitely built a wall around herself and eventually you get the explanation. I found her sarcasm and bluntness to be off putting at times and struggled for a reason other than her looks as to why Finn was drawn to her. At some point though I warmed up more to her and bought into their chemistry although it was never off the charts.
On a side note, I appreciate the author featuring the character Josie who has a guide dog. It wasn’t a major plot point but was woven naturally into the story. Nice to see that representation.
Bottom line, a decent romance but doesn’t rank high on my favorites list. Very positive ratings and reviews on Goodreads though so don’t let my opinion discourage you from picking it up.
Ava isn’t exactly a people person which makes her job at a busy coffee shop a bit of a drag. Her friend and roomie, Josie, will be gone for a few months and she wants Ava to meet new people so she won’t be lonely. The always friendly Finn has a temporary job in London and has become a frequent customer at the coffee shop. He’d love for someone to show him the sites while he’s here. Hmm… maybe Finn and Ava can go explore London together.
The story uses the grumpy/sunshine trope and while typically it’s the male character with the gruff exterior, in this case Ava is the one fulfilling that role. She’s definitely built a wall around herself and eventually you get the explanation. I found her sarcasm and bluntness to be off putting at times and struggled for a reason other than her looks as to why Finn was drawn to her. At some point though I warmed up more to her and bought into their chemistry although it was never off the charts.
On a side note, I appreciate the author featuring the character Josie who has a guide dog. It wasn’t a major plot point but was woven naturally into the story. Nice to see that representation.
Bottom line, a decent romance but doesn’t rank high on my favorites list. Very positive ratings and reviews on Goodreads though so don’t let my opinion discourage you from picking it up.
June 1, 2024
I love this book with my whole entire heart. I have now read it three times and I love it more and more every time.
‘MINI’ book review: A Collision of Stars by Georgia Stone
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
So, full disclosure: I sat next to Georgia while she wrote A LOT of this book. We discussed it every day while she was writing it and I was both an alpha and a beta reader. This is a gifted ARC in exchange for an honest review.
And an honest review you shall receive.
Ava Monroe keeps her social circle small (to just her best friend Josie and her twin Max). When Finn shows up at the coffee shop she works at with a plan to complete a summer bucket list, Ava sees it as the perfect opportunity to strike up a fake friendship and convince Josie she is not as stuck in her ways as she seems. It is a grumpy/sunshine, friendship of convenience to lovers and, quite honestly, it’s hilarious.
I cried from maybe like 80% onwards, I laughed from page 1 until page 446. The banter is just there and it is perfect. The chapter titles alone were enough to make me laugh. I was reading this on the tube to work and I was still struggling to hold back my laughter so I didn’t look unhinged at 6.08am.
My favourite part of this book though was how believable it was. Ava and Finn’s slowburn timeline means that you can feel every part of their affection for each other. Georgia’s strength as a writer is that she doesn’t need to tell you that Ava and Finn are falling for each other - you can see it before the characters do, and it is beautiful.
Ava’s sarcasm is utterly hilarious. I love her. And Finn is just an adorable golden retriever. These characters feel like my friends. I love the way their characters develop over the course of the novel, learning their backstories and feeling their emotions.
Mark up your calendars guys because this one is out February 3rd and it should and will take the world by storm. I can’t wait to read it in summer and have the ACOS summer vibes too. ❤️
‘MINI’ book review: A Collision of Stars by Georgia Stone
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
So, full disclosure: I sat next to Georgia while she wrote A LOT of this book. We discussed it every day while she was writing it and I was both an alpha and a beta reader. This is a gifted ARC in exchange for an honest review.
And an honest review you shall receive.
Ava Monroe keeps her social circle small (to just her best friend Josie and her twin Max). When Finn shows up at the coffee shop she works at with a plan to complete a summer bucket list, Ava sees it as the perfect opportunity to strike up a fake friendship and convince Josie she is not as stuck in her ways as she seems. It is a grumpy/sunshine, friendship of convenience to lovers and, quite honestly, it’s hilarious.
I cried from maybe like 80% onwards, I laughed from page 1 until page 446. The banter is just there and it is perfect. The chapter titles alone were enough to make me laugh. I was reading this on the tube to work and I was still struggling to hold back my laughter so I didn’t look unhinged at 6.08am.
My favourite part of this book though was how believable it was. Ava and Finn’s slowburn timeline means that you can feel every part of their affection for each other. Georgia’s strength as a writer is that she doesn’t need to tell you that Ava and Finn are falling for each other - you can see it before the characters do, and it is beautiful.
Ava’s sarcasm is utterly hilarious. I love her. And Finn is just an adorable golden retriever. These characters feel like my friends. I love the way their characters develop over the course of the novel, learning their backstories and feeling their emotions.
Mark up your calendars guys because this one is out February 3rd and it should and will take the world by storm. I can’t wait to read it in summer and have the ACOS summer vibes too. ❤️
February 3, 2025
i got this arc from work and this might be the best rom com i’ve read in months i loved everything about it!!!!
July 5, 2025
set in london where the mmc falls first????? YUP. i picked this up because the cover immediately drew me in and im obsessed with it. i love ava so much. she may be “sarcastic” and “blunt” but she is so relatable. i also love the chapter titles, they were funny and had me intrigued to keep reading. finn was so in love with ava for who she is which is so refreshing. she may come off cold and harsh but with finn, she can be her true self and he adores her for it. he can read her like a book ;)
ava, a barista in a london coffee shop, is not a people person. she has a strictly no strings attached mantra for relationships. her best friend is leaving for a year and she wants ava to get out of her comfort zone. enter finn, who visits the coffee shop ava works at with an “unusual proposal: a mutually beneficial friends-only summer fling”. for finn, he needs a local to help him complete his london summer bucket list before he moves and for ava, to reassure herself and her best friend that she won’t be lonely. will their adventures lead to more or will it end when summer ends?
tropes: he falls first, friendship of convenience, grumpy x sunshine, dual pov, slow burn *do check cw*
“i’ve realized i don’t even want to spend time with people if they’re not you. no one compares” - finn
🇬🇧☕️🦕☀️🌠
ava, a barista in a london coffee shop, is not a people person. she has a strictly no strings attached mantra for relationships. her best friend is leaving for a year and she wants ava to get out of her comfort zone. enter finn, who visits the coffee shop ava works at with an “unusual proposal: a mutually beneficial friends-only summer fling”. for finn, he needs a local to help him complete his london summer bucket list before he moves and for ava, to reassure herself and her best friend that she won’t be lonely. will their adventures lead to more or will it end when summer ends?
tropes: he falls first, friendship of convenience, grumpy x sunshine, dual pov, slow burn *do check cw*
“i’ve realized i don’t even want to spend time with people if they’re not you. no one compares” - finn
🇬🇧☕️🦕☀️🌠
August 23, 2025
Loved this so much!! It was everything I needed. Rtc🥹
June 17, 2024
Move over Emily Henry there's a new rom-com author coming for your crown 👑 and her name is Georgia Stone.
This book was utter perfection. I finished it weeks ago and not a day has gone by where I've not thought about Ava and Finn 🫶🏼 I've just come to accept that they are now a part of my personality and will live in my head rent-free for forever.
It had everything - I laughed, I cried, I smiled, I got butterflies, I couldn't put it down, I related (Ava, my queen I see you 🥹), I got goosebumps, I went back to reread passages, and just an honourable mention to the chapter titles 👏🏼 there are TOO many to pick even a top 10.
But the thing about this book that makes it so magical is it is not just a rom com, it's so much more. It's about feeling lost, feeling stuck, not knowing who you are, not knowing how to get out of the rut you're in, it's about having that fire within you but not knowing how to let it burn, it's about friendship, and love, and how those deep connections with people can make you feel seen in the most scary and wonderful ways.
Honestly I could babble on about this book forever. I have a thousand quotes that I loved, some funny, some moving, some just so goddamn relatable. I don't think I've ever felt so seen in a book. And on that note, below I've listed some of the people who might just find their next 5 star read in this book...
You should read ACOS if:
- you love Emily Henry books
- you've lived in London
- you love a slow burn (and I mean SLOW 👏🏼)
- you're feeling a little lost in life
- you're in your twenties
- you want to belly laugh
- you love grumpy x sunshine
- you love friends to lovers
- you want to take a leap but are scared
- you're looking for some comfort
- you've ever worked in a coffee shop
Thank you Georgia for an early copy in exchange for an honest review. A Collision of Stars is out A WEEK TODAY (!!) and you can pre-order the ebook now 🩷 you'd best believe I'll be ordering the physical next Saturday and rereading this summer and highlighting every single word in the book 😎
This book was utter perfection. I finished it weeks ago and not a day has gone by where I've not thought about Ava and Finn 🫶🏼 I've just come to accept that they are now a part of my personality and will live in my head rent-free for forever.
It had everything - I laughed, I cried, I smiled, I got butterflies, I couldn't put it down, I related (Ava, my queen I see you 🥹), I got goosebumps, I went back to reread passages, and just an honourable mention to the chapter titles 👏🏼 there are TOO many to pick even a top 10.
But the thing about this book that makes it so magical is it is not just a rom com, it's so much more. It's about feeling lost, feeling stuck, not knowing who you are, not knowing how to get out of the rut you're in, it's about having that fire within you but not knowing how to let it burn, it's about friendship, and love, and how those deep connections with people can make you feel seen in the most scary and wonderful ways.
Honestly I could babble on about this book forever. I have a thousand quotes that I loved, some funny, some moving, some just so goddamn relatable. I don't think I've ever felt so seen in a book. And on that note, below I've listed some of the people who might just find their next 5 star read in this book...
You should read ACOS if:
- you love Emily Henry books
- you've lived in London
- you love a slow burn (and I mean SLOW 👏🏼)
- you're feeling a little lost in life
- you're in your twenties
- you want to belly laugh
- you love grumpy x sunshine
- you love friends to lovers
- you want to take a leap but are scared
- you're looking for some comfort
- you've ever worked in a coffee shop
Thank you Georgia for an early copy in exchange for an honest review. A Collision of Stars is out A WEEK TODAY (!!) and you can pre-order the ebook now 🩷 you'd best believe I'll be ordering the physical next Saturday and rereading this summer and highlighting every single word in the book 😎
October 5, 2025
2.5⭐️ Slow burn, grumpy FMC / sunshine MMC.
What Worked
♡ First half of the book.
♡ Despite being a grump, Ava was likable.
♡ Finn—the epitome of golden retriever energy.
♡ Banter
What Did Not
🌧️ Last half of the book. The pacing slowed. Any vestige of romcom-ness was smothered by seriousness.
🌧️ Another barista tale. No new spin.
🌧️ Formatting. No extra space between paragraphs. One space indent for new paragraphs. Example:
“Insert dialogue.” And then observations, feelings, what have you. On and on and on until another character speaks without the assistance of a dialogue tag.
“Insert reply.” Yeah, conversations were hard to follow. Had to reread paragraphs.
What Worked
♡ First half of the book.
♡ Despite being a grump, Ava was likable.
♡ Finn—the epitome of golden retriever energy.
♡ Banter
What Did Not
🌧️ Last half of the book. The pacing slowed. Any vestige of romcom-ness was smothered by seriousness.
🌧️ Another barista tale. No new spin.
🌧️ Formatting. No extra space between paragraphs. One space indent for new paragraphs. Example:
“Insert dialogue.” And then observations, feelings, what have you. On and on and on until another character speaks without the assistance of a dialogue tag.
“Insert reply.” Yeah, conversations were hard to follow. Had to reread paragraphs.
September 19, 2025
Absolutely obsessed with this book.
The epitome of British humour, I related to this book so much. I loved all of the characters and Finn is just adorable 🥰
I loved Georgia's writing as well, just perfect. ☺️
The epitome of British humour, I related to this book so much. I loved all of the characters and Finn is just adorable 🥰
I loved Georgia's writing as well, just perfect. ☺️
July 9, 2025
Finn! The man that you are!! This book was a surprising five stars from me. I haven’t seen it hyped up as much as it should be. The banter, sarcasm, chemistry….chef’s kiss. There were so many scenes and interactions where I was laughing out loud! The ending had me also emotional since I am a twin and could relate to how she was feeling.
In this reverse grumpy sunshine trope, Ava is the grump to Finn’s perpetual sunshine. They honestly couldn’t be more opposite! Their “friendship of convenience” grew to something that they both needed. The bucket list was such a cute way for them to explore London (now I want to visit), and get to know each other.
Pick this book up for a fun read that will have you laughing and crying!
In this reverse grumpy sunshine trope, Ava is the grump to Finn’s perpetual sunshine. They honestly couldn’t be more opposite! Their “friendship of convenience” grew to something that they both needed. The bucket list was such a cute way for them to explore London (now I want to visit), and get to know each other.
Pick this book up for a fun read that will have you laughing and crying!
July 23, 2025
4.25
finn is genuinely such a sunshine golden retriever boy, I loved him so much 😭 I loved Finn and Ava's friendship and seeing them go around exploring London together was so fun!
finn is genuinely such a sunshine golden retriever boy, I loved him so much 😭 I loved Finn and Ava's friendship and seeing them go around exploring London together was so fun!
March 26, 2024
WHATS THE POINT OF WRITING A DUAL POV IF YOURE ONLY GOING TO WRITE FOUR CHAPTERS FROM THE MMC’S POV???????
Overall, this was okay…idk if it was me and my weird mood I’ve been in or the writing, but it didn’t hit like it should have. I did find myself relating to Ava a lot but I just didn’t FEEL IT like I should. Idk what it was
I liked Finn. He’s cute and funny and I need a friend like him
I have a question, though…was it ever mentioned that Josie is visually impaired???? Bc I literally got it until I got to 72% of the book and if it wasn’t actually mentioned but only “implied”, then that’s just neglectful and I’m mad about that
Idk what else to say. I didn’t get the meaning of the title tbh. The quote thing was cute but maybe I needed more depth
Overall, this was okay…idk if it was me and my weird mood I’ve been in or the writing, but it didn’t hit like it should have. I did find myself relating to Ava a lot but I just didn’t FEEL IT like I should. Idk what it was
I liked Finn. He’s cute and funny and I need a friend like him
I have a question, though…was it ever mentioned that Josie is visually impaired???? Bc I literally got it until I got to 72% of the book and if it wasn’t actually mentioned but only “implied”, then that’s just neglectful and I’m mad about that
Idk what else to say. I didn’t get the meaning of the title tbh. The quote thing was cute but maybe I needed more depth
June 8, 2025
THE FRIENDSHIP FLING
by @georgiastonewrites
❤️🧡💛💚🩵💙💜🩷🤍
wow, this book was so funny, and angsty, and flirty. i honestly think this is some of the most hilarious writing ive ever read .. i mean ive met georgia in person so i know she is hilarious but this book captures her innate humour.
set in london (my home) - ava monroe, a black cat barista, who doesn't really leave the house except for work and random one night stands meets finn o'callaghan, newly arrived in london off the back of a break up. they start off as friends, ticking off finn's london bucket list and this slow burn romance builds to a steady flame. ❤️🔥
please go read this book, absolute 5 star banger!
❤️🧡💛💚🩵🩵💜🩷🤍
by @georgiastonewrites
❤️🧡💛💚🩵💙💜🩷🤍
wow, this book was so funny, and angsty, and flirty. i honestly think this is some of the most hilarious writing ive ever read .. i mean ive met georgia in person so i know she is hilarious but this book captures her innate humour.
set in london (my home) - ava monroe, a black cat barista, who doesn't really leave the house except for work and random one night stands meets finn o'callaghan, newly arrived in london off the back of a break up. they start off as friends, ticking off finn's london bucket list and this slow burn romance builds to a steady flame. ❤️🔥
please go read this book, absolute 5 star banger!
❤️🧡💛💚🩵🩵💜🩷🤍
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