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The Phone Swap: A new enemies-to-lovers romance from the author of BETTER LEFT UNSENT
An enemies-to-lovers romance from the author of BETTER LEFT UNSENT
Allie Lake is a scientist is on a held-up flight travelling home from a job when she is seated next to troubled movie star Milo Ford. She is in no mood to talk to him, whoever he might be. Her most recent project at a research station has just come to an end and she's about to move in with her sister and her love life is non-existent. As for Milo, he wants nothing more than to be at home hiding out with a little normality. Instead, he has to go and film a movie in the Romanian mountains... all the while, the press are getting closer, circling his most closely guarded secret.
Post-flight, they both quickly realise they've accidentally swapped phones with their fellow passenger. Easily rectified, except Milo's about to be on a remote set for a month... and Allie has no idea who Milo is, only that he is the keeper of her entire digital life.
As they trade back and forth on each other's phones, they can't help but notice there's more to their chat than practicalities...
Allie Lake is a scientist is on a held-up flight travelling home from a job when she is seated next to troubled movie star Milo Ford. She is in no mood to talk to him, whoever he might be. Her most recent project at a research station has just come to an end and she's about to move in with her sister and her love life is non-existent. As for Milo, he wants nothing more than to be at home hiding out with a little normality. Instead, he has to go and film a movie in the Romanian mountains... all the while, the press are getting closer, circling his most closely guarded secret.
Post-flight, they both quickly realise they've accidentally swapped phones with their fellow passenger. Easily rectified, except Milo's about to be on a remote set for a month... and Allie has no idea who Milo is, only that he is the keeper of her entire digital life.
As they trade back and forth on each other's phones, they can't help but notice there's more to their chat than practicalities...
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First published August 25, 2026
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August 31, 2026
So cute!😍 AND there are puffins!
Each year I read a few authors that I've always wanted to but haven't yet and this year Lia Louis is one of them. This was a fresh easy read with a world that was fun to spend time in. The main characters lives were quite different being an actor and a scientist as were their personalities and personal struggles. I liked that both characters had unique challenges instead of one being together and the other a mess.
Baby puffins are called pufflings.... perhaps the cutest name ever!
Milo and Allie accidently switch phones on a flight and agree to be each other's phone secretaries until they can meet and resolve the issue. Milo is filming in the remote Romanian mountains, and Allie is moving in with her sister following the end of a research project. Before they can meet their personal exchanges are leaked going viral. Each blames the other and the meeting is done through proxies.
In the future they cross paths in an unexpected way.
We get to travel to Norway in this one and get up close with different breeds of birds thank to Allie's job in scientific research. This was my favorite part of the novel! It was fascinating to learn a bit about interesting species. Especially, the pair of puffins Lucky and Mart! Allie and Milo both have terrific best friends that added a lot to the story. Supportive friends always stand out to me in novels and life!
The resolution was one that's been done to death, but I still enjoyed this trip to colder climates.
*Now Available*
Thank you to Atria | Emily Bestler Books for providing an ARC via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Each year I read a few authors that I've always wanted to but haven't yet and this year Lia Louis is one of them. This was a fresh easy read with a world that was fun to spend time in. The main characters lives were quite different being an actor and a scientist as were their personalities and personal struggles. I liked that both characters had unique challenges instead of one being together and the other a mess.
Baby puffins are called pufflings.... perhaps the cutest name ever!
Milo and Allie accidently switch phones on a flight and agree to be each other's phone secretaries until they can meet and resolve the issue. Milo is filming in the remote Romanian mountains, and Allie is moving in with her sister following the end of a research project. Before they can meet their personal exchanges are leaked going viral. Each blames the other and the meeting is done through proxies.
In the future they cross paths in an unexpected way.
We get to travel to Norway in this one and get up close with different breeds of birds thank to Allie's job in scientific research. This was my favorite part of the novel! It was fascinating to learn a bit about interesting species. Especially, the pair of puffins Lucky and Mart! Allie and Milo both have terrific best friends that added a lot to the story. Supportive friends always stand out to me in novels and life!
The resolution was one that's been done to death, but I still enjoyed this trip to colder climates.
*Now Available*
Thank you to Atria | Emily Bestler Books for providing an ARC via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 26, 2026
the setup…
Allie Lake, an ecology researcher, arrives home to England from Bermuda when she discovers she has the wrong phone. She figures out it was accidentally swapped with Milo Ford who was on the plane. He’s an actor currently filming in Romania and can’t return for 21 days to do the swap. They work out a plan to share messages and files and talk, text and do Zoom calls…daily. Neither planned on falling for the other and by the time of their scheduled rendezvous, feelings are strong. The day of, though, their private messages to each other are leaked, blowing up their worlds and the relationship, both believing the other orchestrated the mess. Fast forward two years and Allie is in the Norwegian arctic at a research site. Who should show up to film the project but Milo, both stunned at the coincidence…uh, oh.
the heart of the story…
In one month’s time Allie and Milo went from strangers to friends, friends to lovers and then to arch enemies. It’s a tough road to enemies to lovers but despite the loss of trust, both are still hurting and have strong feelings for each other. I loved their journey to friends and had high hopes for the relationship. I wasn’t crazy about the miscommunication aspect but it didn’t last long.
the narration…
Nikolas Salmon & Rebecca Norfolk were fabulous! Both captured the essences of their characters and were wonderful storytellers.
the bottom line…
I loved this story despite that interim period of miscommunication because the first and last parts more than compensated for it and it wasn’t something that could be easily resolved. Have patience because the payoff is worth it. And, the Arctic puffins and little auks connections was just precious. 4.5 stars
(Thanks to Simon & Schuster Audio and Libro.fm for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
Allie Lake, an ecology researcher, arrives home to England from Bermuda when she discovers she has the wrong phone. She figures out it was accidentally swapped with Milo Ford who was on the plane. He’s an actor currently filming in Romania and can’t return for 21 days to do the swap. They work out a plan to share messages and files and talk, text and do Zoom calls…daily. Neither planned on falling for the other and by the time of their scheduled rendezvous, feelings are strong. The day of, though, their private messages to each other are leaked, blowing up their worlds and the relationship, both believing the other orchestrated the mess. Fast forward two years and Allie is in the Norwegian arctic at a research site. Who should show up to film the project but Milo, both stunned at the coincidence…uh, oh.
the heart of the story…
In one month’s time Allie and Milo went from strangers to friends, friends to lovers and then to arch enemies. It’s a tough road to enemies to lovers but despite the loss of trust, both are still hurting and have strong feelings for each other. I loved their journey to friends and had high hopes for the relationship. I wasn’t crazy about the miscommunication aspect but it didn’t last long.
the narration…
Nikolas Salmon & Rebecca Norfolk were fabulous! Both captured the essences of their characters and were wonderful storytellers.
the bottom line…
I loved this story despite that interim period of miscommunication because the first and last parts more than compensated for it and it wasn’t something that could be easily resolved. Have patience because the payoff is worth it. And, the Arctic puffins and little auks connections was just precious. 4.5 stars
(Thanks to Simon & Schuster Audio and Libro.fm for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
January 14, 2026
˖᯽ ݁˖· ─ 3/5 stars
𝘛𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘪𝘴 𝘢𝘯 𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘭𝘺 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸, 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘈𝘙𝘊 𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘹𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘮𝘺 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸!
Let me start with the format of the book, it could use some work. For me personally, the format just didn’t let me immerse myself into the book enough. I understand a lot of the book is texting but at the beginning especially we really didn’t even get to learn the characters. Only texting and going to her diary which still didn’t let you see what was happening for both characters.
Now for the actual story, I didn’t mind it! It’s a simple phone swap trope and did have cute moments. I am not a fan of the miscommunication trope so when that happened it kind of just made me want to rush past it. But it ended pretty fast considering it’s a novel and gave us some cute moments afterwards which is why I changed my rating from 2 to 3 stars.
𝘛𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘪𝘴 𝘢𝘯 𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘭𝘺 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸, 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘈𝘙𝘊 𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘹𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘮𝘺 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸!
Let me start with the format of the book, it could use some work. For me personally, the format just didn’t let me immerse myself into the book enough. I understand a lot of the book is texting but at the beginning especially we really didn’t even get to learn the characters. Only texting and going to her diary which still didn’t let you see what was happening for both characters.
Now for the actual story, I didn’t mind it! It’s a simple phone swap trope and did have cute moments. I am not a fan of the miscommunication trope so when that happened it kind of just made me want to rush past it. But it ended pretty fast considering it’s a novel and gave us some cute moments afterwards which is why I changed my rating from 2 to 3 stars.
August 20, 2026
I am and always will be a Lia Louis fan. Dear Emmie Blue and Eight Perfect Hours are such amazing books. Phone Swap, while having great potential, was an enjoyable book but didn’t quite reach the heights of her earlier books.
The premise here is a good one….a British scientist and an American actor briefly cross paths on a flight and accidentally swap cell phones in the process. They manage to find each other on line and spend 3 weeks building a tenuous but genuine connection before things fall apart.
The first part of the book was really nice as the two tentatively get to know each other and find this sweet and unlikely relationship and connection to each other. There is, of course, a fall out that challenges both of their issues with trust and self-confidence to the point that they go their separate ways without even meeting in person. It was shocking and unexpected twist early in the book that set me on edge to see what would happen next. Really enjoyed the first part!
Parts 2 and 3 of the book are just not as solid. The second part of the book is set in the Arctic and while it’s interesting for that, it really does nothing to build the characters or the relationship between the two MCs. The two MCs are polar opposites and with limited backstory development as to why they are who they are I just never saw them as fitting together. I didn’t see the chemistry. Milo came across as a goofy surfer dude and Allie was wound so tight she seemed impenetrable.
Part 1 is all about their ability to talk and communicate with each other but they spend all of Parts 2 and 3 not talking. The miscommunication becomes stubborn self imposed lack of communication. I wanted to see them dig into their issues and learn about each other with some depth. To fight for their relationship. Huge issues like Milo’s struggles with addiction and Allie’s abandonment by an alcoholic father and strained relationship with her sister are glossed over and that hurt the story and character development.
Lia Louis can definitely write and there were many touching and funny moments here. I wanted to see how things came together and was glad for the HEA. Having a scientist doing serious field work was a nice spin! I will definitely keep seeking out Lia Louis books.
Thank you to NetGalley and Atria Books for the opportunity to read an ARC and share my thoughts.
The premise here is a good one….a British scientist and an American actor briefly cross paths on a flight and accidentally swap cell phones in the process. They manage to find each other on line and spend 3 weeks building a tenuous but genuine connection before things fall apart.
The first part of the book was really nice as the two tentatively get to know each other and find this sweet and unlikely relationship and connection to each other. There is, of course, a fall out that challenges both of their issues with trust and self-confidence to the point that they go their separate ways without even meeting in person. It was shocking and unexpected twist early in the book that set me on edge to see what would happen next. Really enjoyed the first part!
Parts 2 and 3 of the book are just not as solid. The second part of the book is set in the Arctic and while it’s interesting for that, it really does nothing to build the characters or the relationship between the two MCs. The two MCs are polar opposites and with limited backstory development as to why they are who they are I just never saw them as fitting together. I didn’t see the chemistry. Milo came across as a goofy surfer dude and Allie was wound so tight she seemed impenetrable.
Part 1 is all about their ability to talk and communicate with each other but they spend all of Parts 2 and 3 not talking. The miscommunication becomes stubborn self imposed lack of communication. I wanted to see them dig into their issues and learn about each other with some depth. To fight for their relationship. Huge issues like Milo’s struggles with addiction and Allie’s abandonment by an alcoholic father and strained relationship with her sister are glossed over and that hurt the story and character development.
Lia Louis can definitely write and there were many touching and funny moments here. I wanted to see how things came together and was glad for the HEA. Having a scientist doing serious field work was a nice spin! I will definitely keep seeking out Lia Louis books.
Thank you to NetGalley and Atria Books for the opportunity to read an ARC and share my thoughts.
September 26, 2025
I have loved Lia Louis' books since I read Emmie Blue. The perfect blend of emotional torment and romance. This book felt a little bit different. Allie is definitely suffering from massive mistrust, but the cause of it is blended. First, we have the issues she has in the relationship with her perhaps kooky sister, and then we have Milo.
I don't know if I could call this the 'enemies to lovers' that it's marketed as, because while there is definite enmity between these two, it's nowhere near as acrimonious as it could be. There is UST, there is attraction, and there is mistrust, which is earned because of a mistake.
I loved reading about Allie and Milo, but I have to be honest, I would have liked to read a bit more about the time they spent apart, between their first almost meeting and the actual meeting. I am very much an "I like to know the background" person, and I wanted more of theirs. We find out certain things, like Allie's father, but it whizzes by in a blur.
Overall, a lovely book, but not as emotional and tear-jerking as past works. A fun read that hits different to Louis' previous books.
I don't know if I could call this the 'enemies to lovers' that it's marketed as, because while there is definite enmity between these two, it's nowhere near as acrimonious as it could be. There is UST, there is attraction, and there is mistrust, which is earned because of a mistake.
I loved reading about Allie and Milo, but I have to be honest, I would have liked to read a bit more about the time they spent apart, between their first almost meeting and the actual meeting. I am very much an "I like to know the background" person, and I wanted more of theirs. We find out certain things, like Allie's father, but it whizzes by in a blur.
Overall, a lovely book, but not as emotional and tear-jerking as past works. A fun read that hits different to Louis' previous books.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to Netgalley & Simon & Schuster for granting me access to this book in exchange for an honest review.
I really wanted to like this. I was so excited and intrigued by the idea of this book, a scientist & a celebrity accidentally swapping each others phones on a plane and slowly falling in love, but it just fell flat for me. The first part of the book, where they're communicating through text and nothing bad has happened yet, is so cutesy and loveable. But parts 2 & 3 was when everything went downhill.
I didn't like the MMC at all. He made so many bad decisions and was so immature and stubborn, and I get that he had addictions but I also didnt like him 2 years into his recovery, either. I dont think it was a good idea for the FMC to fall in love with him because he reminds her of her dad multiple times. The miscommunication made me so mad because if the characters would literally just try for even a second to communicate so much would be fixed, and I get that's the point of miscommunication, but at the same time it was just way too much. It was written so poorly. The characters were both way too stubborn and immature. The only parts of this book I liked that were its saving grace from being a 1 star is that I liked all the scientific stuff I thought it was cool and I could tell that the author tried and I do think some people would vibe with this book. Unfortunately it was just not a book that was meant for me in my current head space.
I really wanted to like this. I was so excited and intrigued by the idea of this book, a scientist & a celebrity accidentally swapping each others phones on a plane and slowly falling in love, but it just fell flat for me. The first part of the book, where they're communicating through text and nothing bad has happened yet, is so cutesy and loveable. But parts 2 & 3 was when everything went downhill.
I didn't like the MMC at all. He made so many bad decisions and was so immature and stubborn, and I get that he had addictions but I also didnt like him 2 years into his recovery, either. I dont think it was a good idea for the FMC to fall in love with him because he reminds her of her dad multiple times. The miscommunication made me so mad because if the characters would literally just try for even a second to communicate so much would be fixed, and I get that's the point of miscommunication, but at the same time it was just way too much. It was written so poorly. The characters were both way too stubborn and immature. The only parts of this book I liked that were its saving grace from being a 1 star is that I liked all the scientific stuff I thought it was cool and I could tell that the author tried and I do think some people would vibe with this book. Unfortunately it was just not a book that was meant for me in my current head space.
November 17, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and Simon & Schuster for providing me with this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
2.75 stars. I liked it enough to read it to the end but... but... but...
Part One: 3.5 stars - Totally loved it!
Really connected with the characters and enjoyed the developing love story. Also, loved the twisty turny stuff.
Part Two: 3 stars - Liked it but starting having issues with Milo's behavior. It was clear that he wasn't telling Allie the truth about his behavior. I also had major issues with Iris and Jameson.
Part Three: 2 stars - Had major issues with everyone's behavior. Frankly, it appeared to me that Milo had too many similarities to Allie's dad and, even though he is sober and working his AA program at the end of the story, their HEA didn't give me a warm, fuzzy feeling.
Profanity and PG-13 kissing.
My recommendation is to read: "Dear Emmie Blue", "Eight Perfect Hours", and "Better Left Unsent". All three are so good that I own the e-books and the audiobooks and are regular re-reads for me.
2.75 stars. I liked it enough to read it to the end but... but... but...
Part One: 3.5 stars - Totally loved it!
Really connected with the characters and enjoyed the developing love story. Also, loved the twisty turny stuff.
Part Two: 3 stars - Liked it but starting having issues with Milo's behavior. It was clear that he wasn't telling Allie the truth about his behavior. I also had major issues with Iris and Jameson.
Part Three: 2 stars - Had major issues with everyone's behavior. Frankly, it appeared to me that Milo had too many similarities to Allie's dad and, even though he is sober and working his AA program at the end of the story, their HEA didn't give me a warm, fuzzy feeling.
Profanity and PG-13 kissing.
My recommendation is to read: "Dear Emmie Blue", "Eight Perfect Hours", and "Better Left Unsent". All three are so good that I own the e-books and the audiobooks and are regular re-reads for me.
August 31, 2026
I really wanted to love this one because the premise sounded so good. A scientist and a movie star accidentally swap phones on a plane and start falling for each other through texts? Honestly, sign me up. And for a while, it actually worked. The texting, the getting-to-know-each-other-without-really-knowing-each-other thing, the whole beginning I was into it.
And then came the miscommunication.
So. Much. Miscommunication.
At some point I stopped thinking “aww, just talk to each other” and started thinking “PLEASE, for the love of everything, just have one normal conversation.” There were so many situations that could have been solved in five minutes if either of them had simply used their words.
I still liked the characters and there were definitely some cute and genuinely sweet moments, but the further I got into the book, the more I felt like I was watching two adults actively avoid the easiest possible solution to their problems.
The phone swap idea was easily my favorite part, and I honestly wish the book had held onto that charm for longer. The beginning had me hooked; the rest had me negotiating with myself to keep reading.
And then came the miscommunication.
So. Much. Miscommunication.
At some point I stopped thinking “aww, just talk to each other” and started thinking “PLEASE, for the love of everything, just have one normal conversation.” There were so many situations that could have been solved in five minutes if either of them had simply used their words.
I still liked the characters and there were definitely some cute and genuinely sweet moments, but the further I got into the book, the more I felt like I was watching two adults actively avoid the easiest possible solution to their problems.
The phone swap idea was easily my favorite part, and I honestly wish the book had held onto that charm for longer. The beginning had me hooked; the rest had me negotiating with myself to keep reading.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to tag and provide an honest review. I love the premise of this book. The characters are from two different worlds and somehow cross paths. It's easy to fall in love with them and their supporting characters too. I thoroughly enjoyed this read.
The layout was a little confusing with texting and diary entries. But it gave us an insight to Allie's history with her family and lack of trust in people.
I read for enjoyment and this is my first time reviewing a book. It's a romance trope I enjoy and while the miscommunication can be frustrating, to me it adds to the trope.
The layout was a little confusing with texting and diary entries. But it gave us an insight to Allie's history with her family and lack of trust in people.
I read for enjoyment and this is my first time reviewing a book. It's a romance trope I enjoy and while the miscommunication can be frustrating, to me it adds to the trope.
November 6, 2025
The premise for the plot sounded super interesting and the first 50-70 pages got me hooked, but then it started to fall flat for me. I lost interest around 40 percent in and it was a bit of a struggle to finish.
I could easily put this book down.
I’m not saying it was a bad read but mostly it just wasn’t for me.
Thank you Bonnier Books UK and NetGalley for the eARC. I’m glad I could try this author!
I could easily put this book down.
I’m not saying it was a bad read but mostly it just wasn’t for me.
Thank you Bonnier Books UK and NetGalley for the eARC. I’m glad I could try this author!
December 26, 2025
Okay I loved this one!! Milo and Allie both were such likable, flawed characters who had so much growth during the course of this book. I loved the connection to animals, and Milo’s references to recovery. I thought Jameson and Iris were great friends for each of them and overall, a good winter read (especially as a good portion is while they’re in the arctic!)
Thank you Net Galley for my ARC
Thank you Net Galley for my ARC
January 24, 2026
This was a cute late night read! A little bit of enemies to lovers, a little bit of star crossed lovers, and some puffins! I loved following the story of Allie and Milo, and their reminders of what can appear on the surface isn’t always the truth. Thank you NetGalley and Atria Books for the ARC!
August 31, 2026
I look forward to this author's books every year! The Phone Swap is much lighter than her others and while I have thoroughly enjoyed crying while reading Lia Louis's books, I still recommend this book for the author's signature wit and warmth.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for my complimentary ARC. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for my complimentary ARC. All opinions are my own.
November 17, 2025
3.5 stars
This was a very cute rom-com of a book! An unexpected phone swap on a flight leads to a heartwarming romance between Milo, a movie star, and Allie, a scientist.
Part 1 alternates between their post-phone-swap messages and Allie’s diary entries as they plan to meet up for the swap back. Parts 2 and 3 take place in the present and alternate between Allie and Milo’s POVs as they navigate their relationship following a major loss of trust.
The text messaging and diary entries were a unique and fun way to get to know the characters and watch their relationship develop. However, it felt like Milo’s overuse of exclamation points and emojis distracted from the actual dialogue. Jameson and Iris were absolutely wonderful and I really enjoyed how much we got to know them in addition to the main characters.
The biggest issue I had with this book was miscommunication trope. I am simply not a fan of it and found it to be very frustrating. It seemed to drag on forever and just wasn’t very believable given the ages of Allie and Milo. This was still a very sweet romance that I really enjoyed overall.
Thank you to NetGalley and Atria Books for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This was a very cute rom-com of a book! An unexpected phone swap on a flight leads to a heartwarming romance between Milo, a movie star, and Allie, a scientist.
Part 1 alternates between their post-phone-swap messages and Allie’s diary entries as they plan to meet up for the swap back. Parts 2 and 3 take place in the present and alternate between Allie and Milo’s POVs as they navigate their relationship following a major loss of trust.
The text messaging and diary entries were a unique and fun way to get to know the characters and watch their relationship develop. However, it felt like Milo’s overuse of exclamation points and emojis distracted from the actual dialogue. Jameson and Iris were absolutely wonderful and I really enjoyed how much we got to know them in addition to the main characters.
The biggest issue I had with this book was miscommunication trope. I am simply not a fan of it and found it to be very frustrating. It seemed to drag on forever and just wasn’t very believable given the ages of Allie and Milo. This was still a very sweet romance that I really enjoyed overall.
Thank you to NetGalley and Atria Books for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 8, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ — Sweet, Low-Stress Read
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC of Phone Swap.
This was such a super cute read! It was definitely a little longer than it needed to be, but the charm of the story and the genuine sweetness of the characters made up for it. I loved that both leads were a little flawed in real, relatable ways—it added heart without adding heaviness.
Overall, it’s a quick, easy, low-stress book that’s perfect when you want something light and feel-good. I’d definitely recommend it for anyone looking for a breezy, comfort-read vibe
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC of Phone Swap.
This was such a super cute read! It was definitely a little longer than it needed to be, but the charm of the story and the genuine sweetness of the characters made up for it. I loved that both leads were a little flawed in real, relatable ways—it added heart without adding heaviness.
Overall, it’s a quick, easy, low-stress book that’s perfect when you want something light and feel-good. I’d definitely recommend it for anyone looking for a breezy, comfort-read vibe
January 28, 2026
First off, I would like to thank you NetGalley for the ARC copy of The Phone Swap. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The Phone Swap was my first read from Lia Louis. I was so intrigued by the plot that I felt I had to read it. I honestly can’t say what my expectations were having not read one of their books previously, but I was pleasantly surprised! The words flowed well, the plot kept me wanting more and even gave me a few surprises. The chemistry between the main characters was palpable from the page.
If you’re looking for a fun, entertaining read, definitely consider this!
The Phone Swap was my first read from Lia Louis. I was so intrigued by the plot that I felt I had to read it. I honestly can’t say what my expectations were having not read one of their books previously, but I was pleasantly surprised! The words flowed well, the plot kept me wanting more and even gave me a few surprises. The chemistry between the main characters was palpable from the page.
If you’re looking for a fun, entertaining read, definitely consider this!
February 23, 2026
*NetGalley ARC Review*
Sweet romance between a celebrity and scientist that happens over an accidental phone swap on an airplane. I thoroughly enjoyed the story, perspectives from multiple characters, the science, the plot, and the variety of settings! Very easy read and it kept me engaged and wanting more the whole time!
Sweet romance between a celebrity and scientist that happens over an accidental phone swap on an airplane. I thoroughly enjoyed the story, perspectives from multiple characters, the science, the plot, and the variety of settings! Very easy read and it kept me engaged and wanting more the whole time!
August 29, 2026
Allie Lake and Milo Ford accidentally swap phones on a flight and agree to act as each other's phone secretaries until they can meet to switch back. Over the next two weeks, they get to know each other through texts, calls, and even a few FaceTime chats. As they share more about themselves, their planned meet-up becomes less about returning the phones and more about finally meeting in person. But as the day approaches, Allie and Milo have to decide if two people from such different worlds can really be together.
This was a really cute romance. I especially liked how the first part of the book used text messages and diary entries to tell the story. Allie and Milo had great chemistry, and I was excited for their meet-up. I still enjoyed the second half, but I thought the miscommunication trope was a bit much and detracted from the romance. Still, I loved Allie and Milo’s banter and found myself just as interested in the side character’s romance as in our main characters. If you enjoy a slow-burn romance with STEM representation, I recommend this book.
Thank you to NetGalley and Atria Books for the opportunity to review The Phone Swap. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This was a really cute romance. I especially liked how the first part of the book used text messages and diary entries to tell the story. Allie and Milo had great chemistry, and I was excited for their meet-up. I still enjoyed the second half, but I thought the miscommunication trope was a bit much and detracted from the romance. Still, I loved Allie and Milo’s banter and found myself just as interested in the side character’s romance as in our main characters. If you enjoy a slow-burn romance with STEM representation, I recommend this book.
Thank you to NetGalley and Atria Books for the opportunity to review The Phone Swap. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 16, 2026
4.5 stars. Okay but tell me why I was tearing up at the end of this?? Like reading the final chapters with tears blurring my vision?? Why did I ALMOST CRY ABOUT PUFFINS??
I liked that this book subverted tropes in a way that felt really relatable. Allie isn’t a “black cat” - she’s logical and reserved, which comes off as cold. Milo is warm and welcoming, open with his feelings - except for the parts of himself that are most authentic. Their romance, with all of its waves, felt real. It didn’t glorify or catastrophize.
And it was such a relief to read. One of those books that really makes you think “true love is real”. Allo Lord makes it real.
Thank you to NetGalley, Lia Louis, and Atria / Emily Bestler Books for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
I liked that this book subverted tropes in a way that felt really relatable. Allie isn’t a “black cat” - she’s logical and reserved, which comes off as cold. Milo is warm and welcoming, open with his feelings - except for the parts of himself that are most authentic. Their romance, with all of its waves, felt real. It didn’t glorify or catastrophize.
And it was such a relief to read. One of those books that really makes you think “true love is real”. Allo Lord makes it real.
Thank you to NetGalley, Lia Louis, and Atria / Emily Bestler Books for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 13, 2026
3 Stars ⭐
Thank you to the author/publisher for the NetGalley ARC! 💙
What would you do if you accidentally swapped phones with a stranger on a plane?
That's exactly what happened to Allie, a scientist, and Milo, an actor in this oddly sweet romance story that I enjoyed! It was adventurous, filled with cute animals, and had a storyline that kept me intrigued! However, the issue I had with the story was the constant miscommunication. I kept screaming for them to sit down and TALK. I think that if they allowed themselves to sit down and have a proper, honest conversation, then some of what happened could have been easily avoided. Every time I thought that we were getting somewhere, we were not... At the end of the day, it was okay, but at least I had fun with their story!
Thank you to the author/publisher for the NetGalley ARC! 💙
What would you do if you accidentally swapped phones with a stranger on a plane?
That's exactly what happened to Allie, a scientist, and Milo, an actor in this oddly sweet romance story that I enjoyed! It was adventurous, filled with cute animals, and had a storyline that kept me intrigued! However, the issue I had with the story was the constant miscommunication. I kept screaming for them to sit down and TALK. I think that if they allowed themselves to sit down and have a proper, honest conversation, then some of what happened could have been easily avoided. Every time I thought that we were getting somewhere, we were not... At the end of the day, it was okay, but at least I had fun with their story!
August 25, 2026
This was just a very sweet and light hearted read. I really enjoyed the audiobook. Both of the narrators did a great job portraying each of the main characters, Allie and Milo, and all of their emotions. This book made me laugh at these flawed yet totally likable characters. I loved seeing how their relationship started as strangers and then they grew to develop feelings through their accidental phone swap leading to messages on each other's phones. There were even twists that I wasn't expecting. Overall, I thought it was a fun read. This was my first book by Lia Louis and I will absolutely read her books in the future.
Thank you to the publisher for the gifted copy and audiobook. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to the publisher for the gifted copy and audiobook. All opinions are my own.
February 21, 2026
Thank you Atria Books and NetGalley for the advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. This book will be released on August 25th and you don’t want to miss it!
The Phone Swap by Lia Louis was such a delightful surprise. I loved this book, especially because it didn’t feel like the set up of your traditional romance.
The story begins when Milo, a movie star and Allie, a scientist accidentally swap phones on a flight. Part one unfolds through text message exchanges and was completely swoon worthy. I was hooked immediately, even though I had no idea where the story was headed. It made me think a lot about how much you can learn about someone just by seeing what’s on their phone without actually knowing them.
As the story progresses, we follow the emotional ups and downs of Milo and Allie’s relationship. Much of the book takes place in the Arctic, where Allie is on a research mission. Lia Louis does an incredible job making you feel like you’re really there. The setting felt vivid, immersive, and completely believable.
The side characters truly shine as well. Iris and Jameson are wonderful friends to our main characters, and Polly and Lars add so much warmth and heart to the story. Every character felt likable and well developed, and I found myself rooting for Milo and Allie the entire time.
This book has so much to offer fame, science, puffins, drama, love, and characters who grow and learn so much about themselves along the way. A unique, heartfelt read that I highly recommend.
The Phone Swap by Lia Louis was such a delightful surprise. I loved this book, especially because it didn’t feel like the set up of your traditional romance.
The story begins when Milo, a movie star and Allie, a scientist accidentally swap phones on a flight. Part one unfolds through text message exchanges and was completely swoon worthy. I was hooked immediately, even though I had no idea where the story was headed. It made me think a lot about how much you can learn about someone just by seeing what’s on their phone without actually knowing them.
As the story progresses, we follow the emotional ups and downs of Milo and Allie’s relationship. Much of the book takes place in the Arctic, where Allie is on a research mission. Lia Louis does an incredible job making you feel like you’re really there. The setting felt vivid, immersive, and completely believable.
The side characters truly shine as well. Iris and Jameson are wonderful friends to our main characters, and Polly and Lars add so much warmth and heart to the story. Every character felt likable and well developed, and I found myself rooting for Milo and Allie the entire time.
This book has so much to offer fame, science, puffins, drama, love, and characters who grow and learn so much about themselves along the way. A unique, heartfelt read that I highly recommend.
January 15, 2026
Probably closer to ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Thanks Net Galley and Simon and Schuster for letting me read this book as an ARC!
This book had a cute premise and I loved the idea of swapping phones and learning about each other through conversations back and forth. I think this story didn’t play out as well as the author probably intended. The miscommunication trope was way too much of a focus in this book. They had miscommunications 4 or 5 times within the first 50% of the book which became pretty redundant. I felt like everything could have been solved way sooner!
The second half of the book was really cute and a redeeming piece! I wish we had gotten to that part much sooner.
Overall, a good book that was cute but was a bit drawn out at times.
Thanks Net Galley and Simon and Schuster for letting me read this book as an ARC!
This book had a cute premise and I loved the idea of swapping phones and learning about each other through conversations back and forth. I think this story didn’t play out as well as the author probably intended. The miscommunication trope was way too much of a focus in this book. They had miscommunications 4 or 5 times within the first 50% of the book which became pretty redundant. I felt like everything could have been solved way sooner!
The second half of the book was really cute and a redeeming piece! I wish we had gotten to that part much sooner.
Overall, a good book that was cute but was a bit drawn out at times.
February 19, 2026
~thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for giving me an ARC in exchange for an honest review~
Originally rated 3 but changed to 2 😕 the beginning felt so childish to me, the way the characters were acting. Then the middle of the book wasn’t too bad but I also just felt like the characters were immature. And I couldn’t relate to anyone so it felt off to me.
Originally rated 3 but changed to 2 😕 the beginning felt so childish to me, the way the characters were acting. Then the middle of the book wasn’t too bad but I also just felt like the characters were immature. And I couldn’t relate to anyone so it felt off to me.
August 27, 2026
The Phone Swap by Lia Louis
Contemporary romance.
Traveling home from a job, Allie Lake is asked to switch seats by an airline attendant, which she agrees to. It’s only when she’s off the plane that she realizes she doesn’t have her phone. Allie finds a way to message her locked phone and ends up texting with Milo Ford, the man she switched seats with. Neither is comfortable using mail or courier services to get their phone back, so they agree to give their security codes to the other until Milo gets back home. 21 days of forwarding messages and all the things you do on your phone has the two getting friendly. And friendly turns to interest and romance.
When the day to switch comes and Milo is missing, Allie is first concerned and then horrified that all her personal journal entries have been released to the public. And since Milo is an actor, his messaging and feelings are also now in the public domain.
They blame each other for the leaks and that’s the end of their relationship.
Two years later, Milo’s friend convinces him to do a documentary about the puffins in a remote arctic research center. A snowy cold and remote place where Allie just happens to be working. A setup? Yes. Will they be able to work out their anger and issues?
A cute switch story where they fall without actually meeting in person. I’m not a fan of the miscommunication troupe but it worked for the story.
I loved his quirky pastime hobbies and her science driven mind and love of nature.
All the talk of the puffins and auks made me want to travel to see them. Not so sure about the remote and cold though! Great friends and sad addiction consequences. The new word of the day list was so smart. I loved that.
Romantic and satisfying.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley.
Contemporary romance.
Traveling home from a job, Allie Lake is asked to switch seats by an airline attendant, which she agrees to. It’s only when she’s off the plane that she realizes she doesn’t have her phone. Allie finds a way to message her locked phone and ends up texting with Milo Ford, the man she switched seats with. Neither is comfortable using mail or courier services to get their phone back, so they agree to give their security codes to the other until Milo gets back home. 21 days of forwarding messages and all the things you do on your phone has the two getting friendly. And friendly turns to interest and romance.
When the day to switch comes and Milo is missing, Allie is first concerned and then horrified that all her personal journal entries have been released to the public. And since Milo is an actor, his messaging and feelings are also now in the public domain.
They blame each other for the leaks and that’s the end of their relationship.
Two years later, Milo’s friend convinces him to do a documentary about the puffins in a remote arctic research center. A snowy cold and remote place where Allie just happens to be working. A setup? Yes. Will they be able to work out their anger and issues?
A cute switch story where they fall without actually meeting in person. I’m not a fan of the miscommunication troupe but it worked for the story.
I loved his quirky pastime hobbies and her science driven mind and love of nature.
All the talk of the puffins and auks made me want to travel to see them. Not so sure about the remote and cold though! Great friends and sad addiction consequences. The new word of the day list was so smart. I loved that.
Romantic and satisfying.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley.
July 11, 2026
I’m struggling with my review of this novel because it’s simply not what I was expecting. I adored this author’s previous novel Better Left Unsent, and, after reading the blurb, anticipated more of her charming British humor. The Phone Swap, one of my most anticipated novels of the summer, starts with a great premise where Allie, a seabird biologist, and Milo, a famous actor, accidentally swap phones on a transatlantic flight. Circumstances make it difficult to immediately return the phones, so they begin a sweet romance over text and FaceTime. But both Allie and Milo have issues to work through before they can find their happily ever after.
The Phone Swap has many qualities of another charming romantic comedy. I loved the meet cute, Allie’s unique career, the famous person-normal person trope, and watching Allie and Milo let their guards down over their phones. Unfortunately, the fun banter at the beginning soon became overshadowed by miscommunication and lies. I can appreciate the author’s effort to give these characters back stories with trauma and the desire to withhold their true selves. But the prolonged separation and mutual distrust between the characters made the ending feel rushed and less plausible to me. Ultimately my feelings about this novel are a bit mixed, as it didn't quite match my initial expectations, but romantic dramedy readers will find plenty to enjoy 2.75/5⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley and Atria/Emily Bestler Books for an advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
The Phone Swap has many qualities of another charming romantic comedy. I loved the meet cute, Allie’s unique career, the famous person-normal person trope, and watching Allie and Milo let their guards down over their phones. Unfortunately, the fun banter at the beginning soon became overshadowed by miscommunication and lies. I can appreciate the author’s effort to give these characters back stories with trauma and the desire to withhold their true selves. But the prolonged separation and mutual distrust between the characters made the ending feel rushed and less plausible to me. Ultimately my feelings about this novel are a bit mixed, as it didn't quite match my initial expectations, but romantic dramedy readers will find plenty to enjoy 2.75/5⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley and Atria/Emily Bestler Books for an advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
September 10, 2026
Lia Louis had me from the meet cute. The accidental phone swap was such a fun setup, and the beginning of this book had so much wit, charm, and chemistry that I genuinely thought I might be heading toward a five star romance!!
I especially loved the way Allie and Milo got to know each other through texts, calls, and the strange intimacy of temporarily living inside someone else’s digital world. Lia Louis’s signature warmth and wit were all over those early chapters, and the anticipation of them finally meeting in person worked so well for me.
The second half didn’t quite maintain that same magic. Some of the miscommunication started to wear on me, and I wanted a little more emotional depth in places, especially because the setup had created such a strong connection early on. Still, I loved Allie and Milo’s banter, the STEM/scientific research element, the colder climate setting, and yes, the puffins absolutely helped. 😂🥰
This ultimately felt a little different from some of Lia Louis’s more emotional books, but her voice is still unmistakably hers: clever, tender, and incredibly charming. Not quite the five stars I thought it might become after that opening, but still a really lovely, easy to devour romance.
Follow @annie_lukey on Instagram and TikTok for more book reviews and content!!
I especially loved the way Allie and Milo got to know each other through texts, calls, and the strange intimacy of temporarily living inside someone else’s digital world. Lia Louis’s signature warmth and wit were all over those early chapters, and the anticipation of them finally meeting in person worked so well for me.
The second half didn’t quite maintain that same magic. Some of the miscommunication started to wear on me, and I wanted a little more emotional depth in places, especially because the setup had created such a strong connection early on. Still, I loved Allie and Milo’s banter, the STEM/scientific research element, the colder climate setting, and yes, the puffins absolutely helped. 😂🥰
This ultimately felt a little different from some of Lia Louis’s more emotional books, but her voice is still unmistakably hers: clever, tender, and incredibly charming. Not quite the five stars I thought it might become after that opening, but still a really lovely, easy to devour romance.
Follow @annie_lukey on Instagram and TikTok for more book reviews and content!!
August 27, 2026
This is a romantic comedy featuring women in STEM.
This book is divided into 3 parts and includes forced proximity and romance featuring a celebrity/normal person. The premise is an accidental phone swap between a scientist and a movie star
Allie is a biologist who focuses on seabirds. Milo is an actor. The first part focuses on text conversations between them. This mixed media part of the story was sweet and romantic.
Part two takes place 2 years later and is set in the arctic wilderness. This part of the story features a lot of miscommunication, which I did not love.
The extremely remote Arctic research station in Norway however was an incredible and unique setting. And seeing Allie and her best friend Iris’s research was awesome. The romance in this part was fun too.
This is a slow burn closed door romance. I actually loved Allie and Milo, but definitely thought that the miscommunication lasted too long. I loved the research and everything about the arctic birds. The arctic setting was so fun and different. I really enjoyed the end however the issue that caused the miscommunication and who did it was a bit confusing.
Thanks to Atria Books and netgalley for allowing me to read this book.
This book is divided into 3 parts and includes forced proximity and romance featuring a celebrity/normal person. The premise is an accidental phone swap between a scientist and a movie star
Allie is a biologist who focuses on seabirds. Milo is an actor. The first part focuses on text conversations between them. This mixed media part of the story was sweet and romantic.
Part two takes place 2 years later and is set in the arctic wilderness. This part of the story features a lot of miscommunication, which I did not love.
The extremely remote Arctic research station in Norway however was an incredible and unique setting. And seeing Allie and her best friend Iris’s research was awesome. The romance in this part was fun too.
This is a slow burn closed door romance. I actually loved Allie and Milo, but definitely thought that the miscommunication lasted too long. I loved the research and everything about the arctic birds. The arctic setting was so fun and different. I really enjoyed the end however the issue that caused the miscommunication and who did it was a bit confusing.
Thanks to Atria Books and netgalley for allowing me to read this book.
Did Not Finish
September 1, 2026DNF at 37%
It makes me so sad to DNF this because I have enjoyed every other Lia Louis book that I've read (shout out to my fav Dear Emmie Blue!) Unfortunately, the miscommunication/lack of communication is so frustrating that I don't want to slog through any more of this. It was so promising at first with the accidental phone swap and how things developed between Allie and Milo bit by bit from there. When I got to Part two though and saw that two years had passed, things really started to go down hill. I just don't understand how they both went no contact immediately after assuming the worst. Wouldn't they want some closure or an explanation? Then when they finally reunite/meet, they continue the assumptions and instead of having one honest and mature conversation, they decide they don't need to talk about it since it's the past and they need to focus on their jobs/other things. At that point, I knew I needed to put this one down. I'm hopeful LL's next book will work better for me.
*I voluntarily read a review copy of this book*
It makes me so sad to DNF this because I have enjoyed every other Lia Louis book that I've read (shout out to my fav Dear Emmie Blue!) Unfortunately, the miscommunication/lack of communication is so frustrating that I don't want to slog through any more of this. It was so promising at first with the accidental phone swap and how things developed between Allie and Milo bit by bit from there. When I got to Part two though and saw that two years had passed, things really started to go down hill. I just don't understand how they both went no contact immediately after assuming the worst. Wouldn't they want some closure or an explanation? Then when they finally reunite/meet, they continue the assumptions and instead of having one honest and mature conversation, they decide they don't need to talk about it since it's the past and they need to focus on their jobs/other things. At that point, I knew I needed to put this one down. I'm hopeful LL's next book will work better for me.
*I voluntarily read a review copy of this book*
August 27, 2026
Scientist Allie and celebrity movie star Milo are on a flight together and realize after that they have each other's phones. Milo is now filming in a remote location and it's not so easy to swap back. They exchange texts back and forth, becoming closer and closer. But they each have big issues to work out and a real relatioship seems almost impossible.
The miscommunication trope is my least favorite, and Milo's issues just made him look stubborn and immature. I really liked the first part of the book with their flirty texting, but the middle kind of fell apart for me. I did really like the ending though (no spoilers lol)
I received a complimentary copy of this book. The views and opinions expressed in this review are completely my own
The miscommunication trope is my least favorite, and Milo's issues just made him look stubborn and immature. I really liked the first part of the book with their flirty texting, but the middle kind of fell apart for me. I did really like the ending though (no spoilers lol)
I received a complimentary copy of this book. The views and opinions expressed in this review are completely my own
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