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The Relationtrip: A Slow Burn Vacation Romance
"Prolific romance author Johnson...has produced an enjoyable slow-burn tale; A particularly appealing element of this book is its depiction of a patient, perceptive hero." — Kirkus Reviews
What do a reclusive author and an outgoing real estate agent have in common?
Nothing.
But fate brought them together on a vacation five years ago, and as Logan and Sloane prepare for their annual get-together, there are sparks flying between them.
When Logan Murphy, my accidental best friend, calls to say our annual mid-winter trip has to be "redone," he's already got the solution.
Belize. An adults-only resort, and we leave in two days.
I'm giddy with excitement, because I need this trip more than I can express. When I see Murph standing in the airport, my heart twitches to a beat it hasn't since my fiancé left me to tell our friends and family that he couldn't make it to the wedding.
So it's a short-lived twitch, because I'm never going to get into the dating boxing ring again—and least of all with my best friend.
I've never told Sloane what I do for a living, and she doesn't know how I feel about her either. But I want her to know all of my secrets.
I want my best friend in my life more than once a year, and I've already started penning a happily-ever-after for the two of us.
This year, I tell myself, as my crush on the vibrant woman is at least two years old now.
If only I knew how to tell her...
This is a standalone, slow-burn travel romance that will make you smile, gasp, and cheer for Logan and Sloane as they figure out who they are...and who they want—at home or on vacation.
For fans of BEACH READ and THE PEOPLE WE MEET ON VACATION by Emily Henry, THE LAYOVER by Lacie Waldon, or THE UNHONEYMOONERS by Christina Lauren.
"Prolific romance author Johnson...has produced an enjoyable slow-burn tale; A particularly appealing element of this book is its depiction of a patient, perceptive hero." — Kirkus Reviews
"Romance readers who know exactly what they like — cozy romances with beachy kisses and people learning to trust offers of happiness — will enjoy this execution of a classic formula. Logan and Sloane are likable leads." — Publishers Weekly
What do a reclusive author and an outgoing real estate agent have in common?
Nothing.
But fate brought them together on a vacation five years ago, and as Logan and Sloane prepare for their annual get-together, there are sparks flying between them.
When Logan Murphy, my accidental best friend, calls to say our annual mid-winter trip has to be "redone," he's already got the solution.
Belize. An adults-only resort, and we leave in two days.
I'm giddy with excitement, because I need this trip more than I can express. When I see Murph standing in the airport, my heart twitches to a beat it hasn't since my fiancé left me to tell our friends and family that he couldn't make it to the wedding.
So it's a short-lived twitch, because I'm never going to get into the dating boxing ring again—and least of all with my best friend.
I've never told Sloane what I do for a living, and she doesn't know how I feel about her either. But I want her to know all of my secrets.
I want my best friend in my life more than once a year, and I've already started penning a happily-ever-after for the two of us.
This year, I tell myself, as my crush on the vibrant woman is at least two years old now.
If only I knew how to tell her...
This is a standalone, slow-burn travel romance that will make you smile, gasp, and cheer for Logan and Sloane as they figure out who they are...and who they want—at home or on vacation.
For fans of BEACH READ and THE PEOPLE WE MEET ON VACATION by Emily Henry, THE LAYOVER by Lacie Waldon, or THE UNHONEYMOONERS by Christina Lauren.
"Prolific romance author Johnson...has produced an enjoyable slow-burn tale; A particularly appealing element of this book is its depiction of a patient, perceptive hero." — Kirkus Reviews
"Romance readers who know exactly what they like — cozy romances with beachy kisses and people learning to trust offers of happiness — will enjoy this execution of a classic formula. Logan and Sloane are likable leads." — Publishers Weekly
Audible Audio
Published November 21, 2023
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About the author
Elana Johnson
182 books2,088 followers3-time USA Today bestselling author Elana Johnson writes adult contemporary beach romance. She is the author of over 130 books across two names, and there's nothing better than sun, sand, and swoon-worthy kisses! Unless it's a sweet-and-sexy cowboy - read those under her pen name of Liz Isaacson. Or an emotional, heartfelt women's fiction novel - read those under her pen name of Jessie Newton.
Learn more at:
www.elanajohnson.com
www.lizisaacson.com
www.authorjessienewton.com
Learn more at:
www.elanajohnson.com
www.lizisaacson.com
www.authorjessienewton.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 192 reviews
August 9, 2024
This book has a lot going for it. The writing is solid, yes. But the characterization? FABULOUS!
I LOVE who these characters are--flaws and virtues, quirks and all. It's amazing. Logan could totally be a bit too perfect--but he isn't. And that's what makes him so great. He's the kind of man you want to believe is real but he's almost too good to be true... until he isn't. Yes, I just repeated myself, but it is an important nuance. And the way he doesn't let Sloane lie to herself about things? GENIUS.
But there's one thing I didn't like. It's huge, though. If the writing and characterization hadn't been so solid and amazing, I wouldn't be reviewing or rating it because what I don't like is my issue. The book is exactly what it promises to be. It IS a clean, don't-even-need-a-door romance.
And it's crazy sensual. If you liked the sensuality in Juniper Bean or Heidi Lucy, you won't have any problem with this one at all.
Examples of my personal discomfort:
1. Sharing a bed (clothed and nothing happening)
2. Very detailed kisses (think Pepper Basham... possibly on steroids)
3. Um... lust. There's no smut... but the lust is there. If this were a CHRISTIAN fiction book, I'd have trouble. It's not. It's just a clean book. Technically.
4. This didn't bother me in a book that doesn't claim to be Christian, but there is definitely some drinking AND... getting a bit tipsy. I only mention it for others who would be bothered. The tipsy side... that would be a problem for me if it claimed to be faith-filled, because of how I see Scripture.
Just to note: I am 100% a prude, and I don't pretend not to be. Yes, parts were uncomfortable for me because I am one. BUT... I am not sorry I read it, and this won't be the last Elana Johnson I read. :)
I LOVE who these characters are--flaws and virtues, quirks and all. It's amazing. Logan could totally be a bit too perfect--but he isn't. And that's what makes him so great. He's the kind of man you want to believe is real but he's almost too good to be true... until he isn't. Yes, I just repeated myself, but it is an important nuance. And the way he doesn't let Sloane lie to herself about things? GENIUS.
But there's one thing I didn't like. It's huge, though. If the writing and characterization hadn't been so solid and amazing, I wouldn't be reviewing or rating it because what I don't like is my issue. The book is exactly what it promises to be. It IS a clean, don't-even-need-a-door romance.
And it's crazy sensual. If you liked the sensuality in Juniper Bean or Heidi Lucy, you won't have any problem with this one at all.
Examples of my personal discomfort:
1. Sharing a bed (clothed and nothing happening)
2. Very detailed kisses (think Pepper Basham... possibly on steroids)
3. Um... lust. There's no smut... but the lust is there. If this were a CHRISTIAN fiction book, I'd have trouble. It's not. It's just a clean book. Technically.
4. This didn't bother me in a book that doesn't claim to be Christian, but there is definitely some drinking AND... getting a bit tipsy. I only mention it for others who would be bothered. The tipsy side... that would be a problem for me if it claimed to be faith-filled, because of how I see Scripture.
Just to note: I am 100% a prude, and I don't pretend not to be. Yes, parts were uncomfortable for me because I am one. BUT... I am not sorry I read it, and this won't be the last Elana Johnson I read. :)
April 27, 2024
If you liked People We Meet on Vacation, you're gonna love this book! It's a super sweet romcom where you get to hear from both Sloane and Logan. The whole friends turning into lovers thing? Yeah, Elana nailed it here. Plus, Logan being a romance writer living out his own love story? So precious! The slow build-up had me totally invested, and don't even get me started on the one bed situation—talk about tension! The vivid descriptions of their trip to Belize have me longing for a vacation. I'm definitely looking forward to reading more from this author.
October 15, 2025
An interesting and fun read.
March 27, 2023
I liked the concept of best friends taking a mid-winter trip. I liked Logan. Sloane was ok.
I was confused. She took a trip with Logan 5 years ago. She had never met Logan before and knew nothing about him. 5 years later, 5 mid-winter vacations, hundreds or maybe thousands of text messages and phone calls later, and she became unsettled because Logan said he was in love with her? She wanted to be unnerved especially after realizing she had more than friendship feelings for him too?
Then she wanted to flip out when he revealed his true job. Over a 5 year period, she never asked him what exactly it was he did for a living, but she wanted to accuse him of lying to her. Maybe he didn't volunteer the info, but Sloane needed to take some responsibility for not asking.
This book was a struggle for me. It felt like Logan trying to have a relationship with Sloane was like pulling teeth, or peeling old wallpaper off a wall. I kept thinking Logan was giving so much more to the relationship than Sloane. It made me wonder if she really wanted to be with Logan. Not because he said he loved her first, but because Logan was so enamored with Sloane, she didn't have to work that hard to maintain the relationship.
Normally I can get through this author's books in a day, maybe two. I can't remember how many times I put this down to read something else and picked it up later to try again. This is a book I would recommend you read and judge for yourself.
I voluntarily read and reviewed the Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
I was confused. She took a trip with Logan 5 years ago. She had never met Logan before and knew nothing about him. 5 years later, 5 mid-winter vacations, hundreds or maybe thousands of text messages and phone calls later, and she became unsettled because Logan said he was in love with her? She wanted to be unnerved especially after realizing she had more than friendship feelings for him too?
Then she wanted to flip out when he revealed his true job. Over a 5 year period, she never asked him what exactly it was he did for a living, but she wanted to accuse him of lying to her. Maybe he didn't volunteer the info, but Sloane needed to take some responsibility for not asking.
This book was a struggle for me. It felt like Logan trying to have a relationship with Sloane was like pulling teeth, or peeling old wallpaper off a wall. I kept thinking Logan was giving so much more to the relationship than Sloane. It made me wonder if she really wanted to be with Logan. Not because he said he loved her first, but because Logan was so enamored with Sloane, she didn't have to work that hard to maintain the relationship.
Normally I can get through this author's books in a day, maybe two. I can't remember how many times I put this down to read something else and picked it up later to try again. This is a book I would recommend you read and judge for yourself.
I voluntarily read and reviewed the Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
March 25, 2023
Have you ever read a “new to you” author and fallen in love with their writing and hoped they had more books you could read?
Well you are in luck!
Start here!
The Relationtrip is a slow burn, fun, rollicking, heartwarming, well written, travel romance that will have you seeking out author Elana Johnson’s 130 other books!
She also writes under the name Liz Izaacson for her Cowboy romances.
You won’t go wrong with any of her books 👍
Thankyou to Author Elana Johnson for the opportunity to read this book ahead of time in exchange for an honest review. 🌸📚🤗
Charlene @lastnownext
Well you are in luck!
Start here!
The Relationtrip is a slow burn, fun, rollicking, heartwarming, well written, travel romance that will have you seeking out author Elana Johnson’s 130 other books!
She also writes under the name Liz Izaacson for her Cowboy romances.
You won’t go wrong with any of her books 👍
Thankyou to Author Elana Johnson for the opportunity to read this book ahead of time in exchange for an honest review. 🌸📚🤗
Charlene @lastnownext
July 12, 2023
It's been a while since I picked up a book and literally couldn't put it down until 4am. Even then, I put it down just because I had to get some sleep. I finished the last few chapters the next day. It was also the first time in a long time that I actually picked up a physical book to read. It felt so nice to actually have a real book in my hands again and turn the pages.
This was the first book I've read by this author, but it won't be my last! I like her writing style. It was so compelling, and I enjoyed the slight twist on the vacation love story. Instead of being about how Sloane was jilted at the alter and met Logan on the way to spend her honeymoon alone—which I'm pretty sure is the plot to a Hallmark movie I've seen—this story is set 5 years later after they've met and become best friends.
I usually enjoy clean romances, but this one had me wanting a little bit more to happen! The heat from their attraction had me fanning myself. Once the book got to the point of feelings being confessed, it switched gears and became about a lot more than attraction though, and I loved that about the story. I will say that Sloane drove me crazy at times, but I still liked her. I love a good friends to lovers story, and I definitely recommend this one! It's a perfect summer beach read.
Thanks to the author for sending me a copy of this book.
Review also posted at Writings of a Reader and on Facebook.
This was the first book I've read by this author, but it won't be my last! I like her writing style. It was so compelling, and I enjoyed the slight twist on the vacation love story. Instead of being about how Sloane was jilted at the alter and met Logan on the way to spend her honeymoon alone—which I'm pretty sure is the plot to a Hallmark movie I've seen—this story is set 5 years later after they've met and become best friends.
I usually enjoy clean romances, but this one had me wanting a little bit more to happen! The heat from their attraction had me fanning myself. Once the book got to the point of feelings being confessed, it switched gears and became about a lot more than attraction though, and I loved that about the story. I will say that Sloane drove me crazy at times, but I still liked her. I love a good friends to lovers story, and I definitely recommend this one! It's a perfect summer beach read.
Thanks to the author for sending me a copy of this book.
Review also posted at Writings of a Reader and on Facebook.
May 2, 2023
Sloane and Logan Murphy met 5 years ago when she was left at the altar, and he, a complete stranger, volunteered to go on her honeymoon with her. It’s now 5 years later, and they’re best friends heading on their annual vacation. When sparks start to fly between them, they need to decide if they’re friendship is worth risking to see if they could be more.
I enjoyed Sloane and Murphy’s story. They were so cute as friends, and I thought their relationship was heartwarming. Although I thought it was strange she would give a complete stranger a ticket to go on her honeymoon with her, it was nice to see they remained friends and still went on one trip together every year. I totally adored Logan and would be happy to have a BFF like him. He was kind, generous and completely cared about Sloane.
If you’re like me, and enjoy a little spice in your romance, then this book probably isn’t for you, but I actually really enjoyed it. It’s nice to read a clean romance about friends becoming more every once in a while. Plus friends to lovers is my favorite trope so I love finding books with that in it!
This book made me so hungry with the descriptions of the food they ate. I was totally craving chips & guac the whole time I was reading! The details of the resort they stayed at were spot on and made me want to book a trip to Belize!
Read this book if you like:
- Friends to lovers
- Slow burn romance
- Vacation romance
- One bed
- Clean romance
I enjoyed Sloane and Murphy’s story. They were so cute as friends, and I thought their relationship was heartwarming. Although I thought it was strange she would give a complete stranger a ticket to go on her honeymoon with her, it was nice to see they remained friends and still went on one trip together every year. I totally adored Logan and would be happy to have a BFF like him. He was kind, generous and completely cared about Sloane.
If you’re like me, and enjoy a little spice in your romance, then this book probably isn’t for you, but I actually really enjoyed it. It’s nice to read a clean romance about friends becoming more every once in a while. Plus friends to lovers is my favorite trope so I love finding books with that in it!
This book made me so hungry with the descriptions of the food they ate. I was totally craving chips & guac the whole time I was reading! The details of the resort they stayed at were spot on and made me want to book a trip to Belize!
Read this book if you like:
- Friends to lovers
- Slow burn romance
- Vacation romance
- One bed
- Clean romance
February 26, 2023
Sloane was left at the alter, decides to go on her honeymoon anyway and lets a random man take the extra ticket and stay with her in her honeymoon suite? That is a bit insane, but a fun start to 6 year friendship that turns into more.
If the worst thing about a guy is that he is a Romance Author, you have found a keeper.
Hmm...
It was almost painful how much more Logan loved Sloane than she loved him.
I genuinely felt bad for him, she has so much baggage that she needs some therapy before she gets into any relationship, especially with Logan, he is a sweetheart.
If you are looking for spice you will have to read one of L.M. Ryan's romance novels, this is a sweet story with hand holding and a few kisses.
I did enjoy this story, though I did find some of the wording a bit redundant.
*I was provided an ARC from the author in return for my honest opinion.
If the worst thing about a guy is that he is a Romance Author, you have found a keeper.
Hmm...
It was almost painful how much more Logan loved Sloane than she loved him.
I genuinely felt bad for him, she has so much baggage that she needs some therapy before she gets into any relationship, especially with Logan, he is a sweetheart.
If you are looking for spice you will have to read one of L.M. Ryan's romance novels, this is a sweet story with hand holding and a few kisses.
I did enjoy this story, though I did find some of the wording a bit redundant.
*I was provided an ARC from the author in return for my honest opinion.
March 21, 2023
I should have checked reviews before starting to read. Whenever reviewers lead with "a good, clean romance" I already get the ick because that means there's some sort of underlying agenda in a book.
At one point the main female character - Sloane - said she loved the smell of bleach. That was so weird and made me think about the idea of cleanliness again. As I said, just an underlying sense of ick to this.
I've read lots of so-called "clean" romances and loved plenty of them. It's just weird when it becomes A Thing, you know? And it was A Thing in this book: oh no, the guy cannot a glimpse of my underwear! oh no, should we build a pillow wall between us although we are in our 30s?
Having said all that, this book was .. predictable? boring? dull? I was 40% into it and I could not have cared less about the characters.
At one point the main female character - Sloane - said she loved the smell of bleach. That was so weird and made me think about the idea of cleanliness again. As I said, just an underlying sense of ick to this.
I've read lots of so-called "clean" romances and loved plenty of them. It's just weird when it becomes A Thing, you know? And it was A Thing in this book: oh no, the guy cannot a glimpse of my underwear! oh no, should we build a pillow wall between us although we are in our 30s?
Having said all that, this book was .. predictable? boring? dull? I was 40% into it and I could not have cared less about the characters.
September 10, 2024
I didn’t know much about this book going in, but this story ended up being so much more than I expected. The Relationship is a beautiful, well written romance by Elaine Johnson that I fell in love with.
Logan and Sloane have been best friends for the past 5 years. They live in different states, but kept their friendship going by facetiming on important occasions, texts, and their annual mid winter vacation that they take every year together. This year Sloane discovers feelings of attraction for Logan as they meet at the airport to leave for their trip. She doesn’t realize that Logan has felt this way for a while now because he has yet to tell her. Can they move forward from best friends to a relationship?
This one gave my all the People We Meet on Vacation vibes only I enjoyed this story so much more. First off I love the way that Sloane and Logan initially met; that we learn and get insight from from the back story. Logan was so lovable and sweet right away. Sloane has a lot she needs to work through after getting left at the altar 5 years ago and I really had to get to know her and her motives. These two have some major chemistry and I could literally feel their attraction for each other flying off the pages. So much tension in the best way! I also loved that these two actually communicated with each other when Logan made his true feelings known. There wasn’t a lot of miscommunication but there was some past hurt and a secret of Logan’s, which wasn’t really that bad, but made Sloane wonder if she could trust the relationship. The book is super focused on Logan and Sloane which I loved and there are not many other side characters. The story explores if and how the relationship could change from friends to more as they get to know each other in their day to day lives and not just the vacation version of themselves. It's a slow burn and absolutely amazing. I was sighing, smiling,and cheering these two on. Logan was super wonderful. All his thoughts and words were just beautiful and the ending was so perfect! If you are a fan of friends to more than this is one you need to read!
Things to Love
Friends to Lovers
He Falls First
Slow Burn Romance
Vacation setting
One Bed Trope
Nicknames
Titan the dog
Wrist Kisses
Beautiful ending
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Content Awareness - This is a clean, kisses only romance, but the kisses are pretty passionate.
Logan and Sloane have been best friends for the past 5 years. They live in different states, but kept their friendship going by facetiming on important occasions, texts, and their annual mid winter vacation that they take every year together. This year Sloane discovers feelings of attraction for Logan as they meet at the airport to leave for their trip. She doesn’t realize that Logan has felt this way for a while now because he has yet to tell her. Can they move forward from best friends to a relationship?
This one gave my all the People We Meet on Vacation vibes only I enjoyed this story so much more. First off I love the way that Sloane and Logan initially met; that we learn and get insight from from the back story. Logan was so lovable and sweet right away. Sloane has a lot she needs to work through after getting left at the altar 5 years ago and I really had to get to know her and her motives. These two have some major chemistry and I could literally feel their attraction for each other flying off the pages. So much tension in the best way! I also loved that these two actually communicated with each other when Logan made his true feelings known. There wasn’t a lot of miscommunication but there was some past hurt and a secret of Logan’s, which wasn’t really that bad, but made Sloane wonder if she could trust the relationship. The book is super focused on Logan and Sloane which I loved and there are not many other side characters. The story explores if and how the relationship could change from friends to more as they get to know each other in their day to day lives and not just the vacation version of themselves. It's a slow burn and absolutely amazing. I was sighing, smiling,and cheering these two on. Logan was super wonderful. All his thoughts and words were just beautiful and the ending was so perfect! If you are a fan of friends to more than this is one you need to read!
Things to Love
Friends to Lovers
He Falls First
Slow Burn Romance
Vacation setting
One Bed Trope
Nicknames
Titan the dog
Wrist Kisses
Beautiful ending
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Content Awareness - This is a clean, kisses only romance, but the kisses are pretty passionate.
August 20, 2024
Quick easy read!
Good characters
Great writing
Would’ve liked a little more spice…
Good characters
Great writing
Would’ve liked a little more spice…
March 3, 2023
This was a sweet vacation contemporary romance. It wasn't overly spicy, just some making out here and there. But it was oh so sweet and fun. I loved everything about Logan, even his secrets. As he basically admitted he's not perfect and that is one of many reasons I loved him. Now Sloane? I had mixed feelings about her. I can't even tell you how many times I wanted to reach through the pages and shake her. That woman needed to get out of her head! If your looking for a light "warm" read this is a great pick. You can pretend your in Belize on vacation right along side of them! ❤
*I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book for my honest and unbiased review*
*I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book for my honest and unbiased review*
March 14, 2023
This book was so different from others I have read from Elana Johnson, but I really loved it. Logan was a sweetheart and sometimes I wanted to smack Sloane up the side of the head and say, wake up will you and see what is right in front of you. Logan understood her in every way. Their characters played off of each other really well. I really like the slow simmer of their relationship, because it left something for the imagination to work with. Plus I really like clean romance. I was given this book in return for an honest review and I will read more in this genre if the author writes more in the venue
March 29, 2023
This was a great clean read about two imperfect people finding a home in each other. It took me a few chapters to like the FMC, Sloane, but once I learned more of her backstory I came to understand her better. Logan, aka “Murph”, was lovable from the get go. Their story had ups and downs and sometimes was a bit frustrating, but again, when I put it all in light of their pasts, it makes sense.
There were a few moments in the story where I questioned if I was still reading a clean romance—but they kept it clean the entire way through.
Overall I thoroughly enjoyed the story and found myself thinking about the characters even after I set the book down—which wasn’t easy to do.
There were a few moments in the story where I questioned if I was still reading a clean romance—but they kept it clean the entire way through.
Overall I thoroughly enjoyed the story and found myself thinking about the characters even after I set the book down—which wasn’t easy to do.
September 11, 2024
This was a cute, cozy, clean romance, and I loved it!
Sloane and Logan meet in the airport when she goes on her non-honeymoon after her fiancé never shows. She gives Logan the second ticket, which ends up being the beginning of a beautiful friendship that eventually grows to be so much more! It's definitely a SLOW burn, though!
Their midwinter trips were one of my favorite aspects. The descriptions made me wish I was relaxing on a beach! I highly recommend if you are looking for a clean, beachy romance!
I received an advanced copy of The Relationtrip in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
Thank you Elana Johnson for sending this ARC my way ❤️
Sloane and Logan meet in the airport when she goes on her non-honeymoon after her fiancé never shows. She gives Logan the second ticket, which ends up being the beginning of a beautiful friendship that eventually grows to be so much more! It's definitely a SLOW burn, though!
Their midwinter trips were one of my favorite aspects. The descriptions made me wish I was relaxing on a beach! I highly recommend if you are looking for a clean, beachy romance!
I received an advanced copy of The Relationtrip in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
Thank you Elana Johnson for sending this ARC my way ❤️
June 22, 2024
I'm head and tails with this one.
I love the built from friendship, to lover. This one jumps right into it, there is waiting for only 10%. Expect to see their relationship blossom from early on. Also expect the third act breakup.
This is where I am iffy on the reading. I don't know if I needed more of build up in the relationship or no breakup at all.
Over all this is a fun summer read, to keep you enticed.
content:
* Kiss only
* Mention of wanting more
* Tropical vacation
* Third act breakup
Deeper Review Here:
https://bibliophilechapter.wixsite.co...
I love the built from friendship, to lover. This one jumps right into it, there is waiting for only 10%. Expect to see their relationship blossom from early on. Also expect the third act breakup.
This is where I am iffy on the reading. I don't know if I needed more of build up in the relationship or no breakup at all.
Over all this is a fun summer read, to keep you enticed.
content:
* Kiss only
* Mention of wanting more
* Tropical vacation
* Third act breakup
Deeper Review Here:
https://bibliophilechapter.wixsite.co...
June 24, 2024
I was given an advance copy to read but opinions are my own.
This was a new author to me and I wasn’t sure what to expect. The premise is cute. A meet-cute (we learn about in a flashback), a friends-to-lovers romance, beachy read. This is a fun, very easy, engaging read. I’ll look for more books from this author.
This was a new author to me and I wasn’t sure what to expect. The premise is cute. A meet-cute (we learn about in a flashback), a friends-to-lovers romance, beachy read. This is a fun, very easy, engaging read. I’ll look for more books from this author.
December 7, 2025
I had many moments of joy and laughter in this book, but the characters drove me crazy. They each had their moments that I enjoyed their story, but they frustrated me the rest of the time. Sloane needs therapy before she considers a relationship. Rating a 4 because I enjoyed the writing and ease of this read 😊
January 10, 2025
3.5 stars
I don't know why this took me six months to read. I would read a little here and there on nights I couldn't sleep.
This is a cute, cheesy, exactly what you'd expect tropical vacation romance. I really enjoyed it.
I don't know why this took me six months to read. I would read a little here and there on nights I couldn't sleep.
This is a cute, cheesy, exactly what you'd expect tropical vacation romance. I really enjoyed it.
December 11, 2025
Phenomenal read! I will be adding her to my favorite author list :-)
January 12, 2024
Beaches, kisses and a slow burn romance; a perfect winter escape book!
The Relationtrip is a slow burn vacation romance written by one of my "MUST READ" authors, Elana Johnson.
Let me start by saying I stumbled upon Elana Johnson and her Feel-Good Fiction books website about a year ago. I participated in her book clubs road trip through books summer reading challenge. Ever since I have been hooked. Elana is definitely an expert on the slow burn romance- a relationship that develops gradually with focus on the emotional connections between the characters. Which brings me to two of the reasons I have Elana Johnson on my Must Read bookshelf.
First,and foremost, Elana' s word craft captures my soul. It is like the lyrics of "Killing Me Softly" there are times I think she must of found of my personal journals and " read each one out loud" ! Except, she expresses my thoughts much more eloquently than I can ever seem to. My copy of The Relationtrip is covered in yellow highlighter; passages of words that fill my soul with vivid word images. I could feast on her words and never feel hungry. For example, on page 176," The human heart is the most amazing thing in the whole universe, because it can love as deep as the darkest trench in the ocean and yet hurt so much a woman feels like she is buried inside that chasm..." Argh!
If only I could say what I think as beautifully as she writes! But the breath and depth of her phrases are why you connect emotionally to her stories and characters.
The second reason I love Elana Johnson is how she creates characters that you can clearly see and know what they are feeling. I guess that's what is meant by "relatable and believable". Sloane and Logan are as real as you and me. One is a romance writer struggling to express his love in real life as well as he does in his novels and the other a professional business person, who can confidently negotiate a winning deal, but struggles trusting her own emotions and relationships. Their personalities, thoughts and life mimic our own,even though we may not exactly match them in profession,lifestyle or income.
I loved the easy banter between Logan and Sloane. I enjoyed the use of nicknames, the friendship and the yearly trip to warmer climates. The escape to a sunny beach,fruity drinks and moonlight walks in the sand, was a welcome interlude during a wintery rural Missouri day!
The Relationtrip is full of emotion, tension, anticipation and uncertainty associated with a developing relationship. It kept me interested in turning the page, determined to see what the outcome for Sloane and Logan would be. Throughout the reading of this novel, Elana Johnson had complete control over my emotional response as I laughed, cried and shouted for joy with her characters actions. From the first cute meet, to the steady but unpredictable attraction of Sloane and Logan, to the final happily ever after, all my senses were engaged in this book.
Once again, Elana Johnson has proven to be a consummate storyteller, deserving of her bestselling author status. Her talent continues to be the reason I click on every deal I can get on her novels. Try The Relationtrip; I am sure you will be hooked.
The Relationtrip is a slow burn vacation romance written by one of my "MUST READ" authors, Elana Johnson.
Let me start by saying I stumbled upon Elana Johnson and her Feel-Good Fiction books website about a year ago. I participated in her book clubs road trip through books summer reading challenge. Ever since I have been hooked. Elana is definitely an expert on the slow burn romance- a relationship that develops gradually with focus on the emotional connections between the characters. Which brings me to two of the reasons I have Elana Johnson on my Must Read bookshelf.
First,and foremost, Elana' s word craft captures my soul. It is like the lyrics of "Killing Me Softly" there are times I think she must of found of my personal journals and " read each one out loud" ! Except, she expresses my thoughts much more eloquently than I can ever seem to. My copy of The Relationtrip is covered in yellow highlighter; passages of words that fill my soul with vivid word images. I could feast on her words and never feel hungry. For example, on page 176," The human heart is the most amazing thing in the whole universe, because it can love as deep as the darkest trench in the ocean and yet hurt so much a woman feels like she is buried inside that chasm..." Argh!
If only I could say what I think as beautifully as she writes! But the breath and depth of her phrases are why you connect emotionally to her stories and characters.
The second reason I love Elana Johnson is how she creates characters that you can clearly see and know what they are feeling. I guess that's what is meant by "relatable and believable". Sloane and Logan are as real as you and me. One is a romance writer struggling to express his love in real life as well as he does in his novels and the other a professional business person, who can confidently negotiate a winning deal, but struggles trusting her own emotions and relationships. Their personalities, thoughts and life mimic our own,even though we may not exactly match them in profession,lifestyle or income.
I loved the easy banter between Logan and Sloane. I enjoyed the use of nicknames, the friendship and the yearly trip to warmer climates. The escape to a sunny beach,fruity drinks and moonlight walks in the sand, was a welcome interlude during a wintery rural Missouri day!
The Relationtrip is full of emotion, tension, anticipation and uncertainty associated with a developing relationship. It kept me interested in turning the page, determined to see what the outcome for Sloane and Logan would be. Throughout the reading of this novel, Elana Johnson had complete control over my emotional response as I laughed, cried and shouted for joy with her characters actions. From the first cute meet, to the steady but unpredictable attraction of Sloane and Logan, to the final happily ever after, all my senses were engaged in this book.
Once again, Elana Johnson has proven to be a consummate storyteller, deserving of her bestselling author status. Her talent continues to be the reason I click on every deal I can get on her novels. Try The Relationtrip; I am sure you will be hooked.
August 6, 2024
The Relationtrip: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Sloane and Logan aka Murph have been best friends for 5 years. Every year they make sure to plan a midwinter trip, usually to someone warm for 10 days. When their next trip has to be redone, Logan already has the backup planned and ready. Sloane has been on a dating hiatus since her fiancé left her at the alter, but she can’t help the pounding of her heart when she first sees Logan this trip. Can she put aside her self doubt, and mistrust in relationships enough to make room for Logan in her heart and her life?
This was a really cute book. But be warned, it is a slow burn, and you will most likely get annoyed at both Sloane and Logan. It was also a little strange that the MMC’s name changed, or rather what Sloan called him changed. Before they start dating it’s strictly Murph, but when they start dating she calls him Logan. There is a little bit of time where she flip flops between Murph and Logan, but if it was me it would be for much longer than just a few days. I loved that it has the he falls first, friends to lovers, and only one bed tropes without being open door, it’s pretty hard to find. I wish we saw more of their time dating, instead of mostly the buildup, but it still had a satisfying ending. The way that Sloane and Logan meet is such an adorable meet cute, I won’t go more into it because spoilers, but it’s adorable. Sloane and Logan are very relatable and real characters, they have flaws, hang ups, insecurities, and make bad choices just like all of us.
Sloane and Logan aka Murph have been best friends for 5 years. Every year they make sure to plan a midwinter trip, usually to someone warm for 10 days. When their next trip has to be redone, Logan already has the backup planned and ready. Sloane has been on a dating hiatus since her fiancé left her at the alter, but she can’t help the pounding of her heart when she first sees Logan this trip. Can she put aside her self doubt, and mistrust in relationships enough to make room for Logan in her heart and her life?
This was a really cute book. But be warned, it is a slow burn, and you will most likely get annoyed at both Sloane and Logan. It was also a little strange that the MMC’s name changed, or rather what Sloan called him changed. Before they start dating it’s strictly Murph, but when they start dating she calls him Logan. There is a little bit of time where she flip flops between Murph and Logan, but if it was me it would be for much longer than just a few days. I loved that it has the he falls first, friends to lovers, and only one bed tropes without being open door, it’s pretty hard to find. I wish we saw more of their time dating, instead of mostly the buildup, but it still had a satisfying ending. The way that Sloane and Logan meet is such an adorable meet cute, I won’t go more into it because spoilers, but it’s adorable. Sloane and Logan are very relatable and real characters, they have flaws, hang ups, insecurities, and make bad choices just like all of us.
March 15, 2023
At the beginning of this book Sloane and Logan are days away from their annual mid-winter vacation to somewhere warm. They are best friends who meet as total strangers at the airline ticket counter when Sloane was trying to cash in or giveaway the 2nd ticket to her non-honeymoon after being abandoned at the alter. Logan ended up going with her and they became best friends.
I love the premise and can even appreciate the slow burn romance. One complaint I had was how ridiculous it was neither of them could really share their feelings with each other despite having such a supposedly close friendship for 5+ years. Logan had kept some important parts of himself hidden from Sloane and when she accidentally learns the news moments before he plans to tell her they both overreact - he is hurt by her reaction and she’s hurt because she feels like he had lied to her. I had a hard time really liking either character.
This has a bit too much emotional angst for the depth of their relationship and the age of the characters (early 30s). She overreacts to so much, and then he overreacts to her reaction. That got old pretty quick.
Their relationship is a bit bland and is extremely atypical of a relationship for 30 year old characters. I can appreciate a clean romance, and physical aspects being kept behind closed doors, but they don’t get beyond snuggling and some kissing. In the epilogue, their relationship seems to have remained entirely chaste since they had booked two rooms for the next mid-winter getaway despite having talked a lot about marriage.
I think I would have enjoyed this book more if we had some scenes from when they first meet and as their friendship and relationship grew over the years before the storyline jumps into we have feelings for each other.
I received a free ARC from the author and 1852 Media; and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
I love the premise and can even appreciate the slow burn romance. One complaint I had was how ridiculous it was neither of them could really share their feelings with each other despite having such a supposedly close friendship for 5+ years. Logan had kept some important parts of himself hidden from Sloane and when she accidentally learns the news moments before he plans to tell her they both overreact - he is hurt by her reaction and she’s hurt because she feels like he had lied to her. I had a hard time really liking either character.
This has a bit too much emotional angst for the depth of their relationship and the age of the characters (early 30s). She overreacts to so much, and then he overreacts to her reaction. That got old pretty quick.
Their relationship is a bit bland and is extremely atypical of a relationship for 30 year old characters. I can appreciate a clean romance, and physical aspects being kept behind closed doors, but they don’t get beyond snuggling and some kissing. In the epilogue, their relationship seems to have remained entirely chaste since they had booked two rooms for the next mid-winter getaway despite having talked a lot about marriage.
I think I would have enjoyed this book more if we had some scenes from when they first meet and as their friendship and relationship grew over the years before the storyline jumps into we have feelings for each other.
I received a free ARC from the author and 1852 Media; and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
April 13, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
What I liked:
- Friends to lovers
- He falls first
- Forced proximity (one bed)
- Dual POV
- Bookish MMC
- Sassy, strong willed FMC
- Picturesque vacations 😍
- Fun adventures on vacation
- The humming 😂🤭
- The banter
- Nicknames 💕
- He gets her favorite foods 🥹
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
How Logan and Sloane met is literally better than a movie. Ugh. It’s like a dream. I don’t want to spoil too much… Sloane is going on her honeymoon alone and Logan saves her 🤭😉 Then every year after that they plan fun beach vacations to escape the dreary snowy weather they live in. Like come on, I need this as a movie ASAP.
Sloane is holding onto a lot of baggage but Logan is dead set on making sure she sees him. Because he’s been right there for her all these years and he’s tired on not being fully seen. He finally works up the courage to tell her everything on their next beach vacation together. 😉 I loved that he knows what he wants and he goes after if, even when he’s scared and doesn’t know how it’ll all work out. Sloane takes a while to catch up and they have a few bumps in the road. But Logan refused to let her get away that easy 🥹
I wished we got more after the last chapter because I would have loved to see Logan and Sloane figure out who they are outside of their vacation versions but we got a small glimpse into that in the jump forward.
This is a clean / closed door romcom. There is kissing and a little innuendo. There is no cursing.
**this book was given to me by the author. All opinions are my own**
What I liked:
- Friends to lovers
- He falls first
- Forced proximity (one bed)
- Dual POV
- Bookish MMC
- Sassy, strong willed FMC
- Picturesque vacations 😍
- Fun adventures on vacation
- The humming 😂🤭
- The banter
- Nicknames 💕
- He gets her favorite foods 🥹
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
How Logan and Sloane met is literally better than a movie. Ugh. It’s like a dream. I don’t want to spoil too much… Sloane is going on her honeymoon alone and Logan saves her 🤭😉 Then every year after that they plan fun beach vacations to escape the dreary snowy weather they live in. Like come on, I need this as a movie ASAP.
Sloane is holding onto a lot of baggage but Logan is dead set on making sure she sees him. Because he’s been right there for her all these years and he’s tired on not being fully seen. He finally works up the courage to tell her everything on their next beach vacation together. 😉 I loved that he knows what he wants and he goes after if, even when he’s scared and doesn’t know how it’ll all work out. Sloane takes a while to catch up and they have a few bumps in the road. But Logan refused to let her get away that easy 🥹
I wished we got more after the last chapter because I would have loved to see Logan and Sloane figure out who they are outside of their vacation versions but we got a small glimpse into that in the jump forward.
This is a clean / closed door romcom. There is kissing and a little innuendo. There is no cursing.
**this book was given to me by the author. All opinions are my own**
March 13, 2023
For me this book was really different from other books I’ve read by this author. For one thing it’s emotionally charged. I cried twice near the end because I felt moved by the growth of the main characters. The characters are realistically flawed. There is no ‘oh you like me and well I guess I like you too so lets have our HEA’. No it shows a real progression of love battling against fear. It was a breath of fresh air metaphorically speaking to not see characters pivot seamlessly from best friends to lovers at the drop of a hat. I also appreciated that very early in the book Logan told her how his feelings toward her were different, there wasn’t any dragging out trying to hide feelings for 3/4 of the book. The story was about them forging a lasting relationship.
I loved the vacations! The last vacation in the book got me more excited about my trip going to the same place later this summer. Great beach read! This was a forced proximity, one bed, but no hanky panky happens. But oh my goodness their first kiss was amazing! Two words- beachside shower!
Rating: PG, clean, no language, several kissing scenes but nothing really descriptive about it, some steam but without the heat, closed door romance, left at the altar, drinking alcohol.
I loved the vacations! The last vacation in the book got me more excited about my trip going to the same place later this summer. Great beach read! This was a forced proximity, one bed, but no hanky panky happens. But oh my goodness their first kiss was amazing! Two words- beachside shower!
Rating: PG, clean, no language, several kissing scenes but nothing really descriptive about it, some steam but without the heat, closed door romance, left at the altar, drinking alcohol.
April 21, 2023
This was such a cute read! Logan (Murph) and Sloane are best friends who talk all the time but only see each other in person once a year on an annual trip they go on that all started 5 years ago when she showed up to her honeymoon trip alone and they connected. This will be the 6th trip for them. They’re both attracted to one another, but they live different lives in different states and neither thinks the other has ever thought of themselves as more than friends and neither can come out and say how they actually feel.
I liked that the novel was written in first person- I connected more with the main characters (the chapters go back and forth between the two of them.) I felt like I was in on a secret knowing what they both thought. I did get annoyed with each of them at times because things would have been less complicated had they just said what they were thinking most of the time. It was pretty predictable but what good romance book isn’t? And there were definitely complications along the way so that made it more interesting as well. A few grammatical errors but overall I really enjoyed this book - it made me smile a lot and I grew to love both characters- I didn’t want the book to end!!
I liked that the novel was written in first person- I connected more with the main characters (the chapters go back and forth between the two of them.) I felt like I was in on a secret knowing what they both thought. I did get annoyed with each of them at times because things would have been less complicated had they just said what they were thinking most of the time. It was pretty predictable but what good romance book isn’t? And there were definitely complications along the way so that made it more interesting as well. A few grammatical errors but overall I really enjoyed this book - it made me smile a lot and I grew to love both characters- I didn’t want the book to end!!
June 24, 2023
A slow burn romance about bff's who go on an annual mid-winter tropical vacation.
My favorite thing about this book is the realistic relationship timeline. We enter the story five years after Sloane has been left at the altar and goes on her non-honeymoon with a complete stranger she meets at the airport: Logan. They become best friends and decide to meet up every year to escape their separate snow-laden states and soak up some sunshine. They had never considered each other as anything more than just friends, but gradually that begins to change. Now, on this fifth annual friends trip, Logan has some confessions to make, and not all of them go over smoothly. I like that everything isn't all sunshine and roses immediately after feelings are revealed - Sloane and Logan take their time working through the messes in their lives and acknowledge that the vacation selves they know may not be the same as their real-life selves.
Both Sloane and Logan have their moments when they frustrate me a bit, but overall I enjoyed the story and like how things ended.
⚠️: Steamy kisses, but no spice
My favorite thing about this book is the realistic relationship timeline. We enter the story five years after Sloane has been left at the altar and goes on her non-honeymoon with a complete stranger she meets at the airport: Logan. They become best friends and decide to meet up every year to escape their separate snow-laden states and soak up some sunshine. They had never considered each other as anything more than just friends, but gradually that begins to change. Now, on this fifth annual friends trip, Logan has some confessions to make, and not all of them go over smoothly. I like that everything isn't all sunshine and roses immediately after feelings are revealed - Sloane and Logan take their time working through the messes in their lives and acknowledge that the vacation selves they know may not be the same as their real-life selves.
Both Sloane and Logan have their moments when they frustrate me a bit, but overall I enjoyed the story and like how things ended.
⚠️: Steamy kisses, but no spice
March 22, 2023
Loved the book, recommend it to everyone. It’s a story about Logan and Sloane who meet at the checkin counter at the airport. Sloane has been left at the altar, but has decided to go on what was to be her honeymoon. She has an extra ticket and has been told she can not cash it in. Logan hears her and says he will take it, he had to change his ticket anyway. This starts a friendship that’s gone on for 5 years. Every year there after that they go on a 10 day vacation to a warm destination. This year it changes. Logan confesses he has feelings for Sloane and she needs to respond. Things go well until Sloane finds out that Logan is a romance writer before he gets to tell her. She feels that Logan has lied to her, and that changes everything. Logan lives in Superior, WI and Sloane lives in Pittsburgh. Logan moves to Pittsburgh so he can date Sloane and with their next winter vacation they get their HEA.
May 9, 2023
Do you ever just need a feel-good book?💕
The Relationtrip by Elana Johnson is the perfect sweet slow burn romance.
When unexpected best friends Sloane and Murphy (love these names) take a yearly vacation, they go to get some sun in the middle of winter but also to get away from life.
Sloan realizes she’s been developing feelings for Murphy but doesn’t want to ruin the good thing they have going by complicating things and revealing how she truly feels. She met Murphy in a very random way, when her wedding was canceled, and her fiancé broke her heart.
She has a hard time believing in love and trust is a huge issue for her.
I adored this sweet story and already looked up Elana Johnson’s other books!
(It also has my favorite Only One Bed Trope!)
Thank you @katerockbooktours for this gifted copy! The Relationtrip is available on our Amazon storefront and published earlier this year!🧜🏼♀️🌺
The Relationtrip by Elana Johnson is the perfect sweet slow burn romance.
When unexpected best friends Sloane and Murphy (love these names) take a yearly vacation, they go to get some sun in the middle of winter but also to get away from life.
Sloan realizes she’s been developing feelings for Murphy but doesn’t want to ruin the good thing they have going by complicating things and revealing how she truly feels. She met Murphy in a very random way, when her wedding was canceled, and her fiancé broke her heart.
She has a hard time believing in love and trust is a huge issue for her.
I adored this sweet story and already looked up Elana Johnson’s other books!
(It also has my favorite Only One Bed Trope!)
Thank you @katerockbooktours for this gifted copy! The Relationtrip is available on our Amazon storefront and published earlier this year!🧜🏼♀️🌺
March 16, 2023
Sloane and Logan has been best friends who met at an airport five years ago after she was left at the altar and decided to take her honeymoon trip without her fiancee, Logan was at the airport trying to get a flight, and as luck or destiny decides, they ended up taking the non-honeymoon trip together.
Ever since that trip they have been traveling once a year together to a warm place and those are the only days of the year that they see each other, ten intense days out of the year. But that doesn't mean that they don't keep into each other lives, they talk each day, sometimes several times a day and are there for each other.
So, are they only best friends? Or as Logan fears, they are stuck into the friendship zone forever, even though he has been wanting to be more than just friends for several years already? You'll have to read the book to find out!
Ever since that trip they have been traveling once a year together to a warm place and those are the only days of the year that they see each other, ten intense days out of the year. But that doesn't mean that they don't keep into each other lives, they talk each day, sometimes several times a day and are there for each other.
So, are they only best friends? Or as Logan fears, they are stuck into the friendship zone forever, even though he has been wanting to be more than just friends for several years already? You'll have to read the book to find out!
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