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Honeybee
EVER FEEL LIKE YOU'RE WINGING IT? JOIN THE HIVE
For best friends Renée and Flo, adulthood isn’t the party they expected.
Renée’s dreams of being a writer are going nowhere. Flo’s hiding a secret shame. They’re both failing in work and love.
Why did nobody warn them? Why does adulthood feel less like freedom, and more like a trap?
Careening from one disaster to the next, and learning to spread their… wings, Renée and Flo must uncover the secret to living their best lives.
But maybe we never stop growing up. And maybe they’ll survive the course – if only they stick together.
HONEYBEE is for anyone who's looking to belong. When life stings, we all need a wing woman.
For best friends Renée and Flo, adulthood isn’t the party they expected.
Renée’s dreams of being a writer are going nowhere. Flo’s hiding a secret shame. They’re both failing in work and love.
Why did nobody warn them? Why does adulthood feel less like freedom, and more like a trap?
Careening from one disaster to the next, and learning to spread their… wings, Renée and Flo must uncover the secret to living their best lives.
But maybe we never stop growing up. And maybe they’ll survive the course – if only they stick together.
HONEYBEE is for anyone who's looking to belong. When life stings, we all need a wing woman.
Paperback
First published September 26, 2024
485 people are currently reading
2895 people want to read
About the author
Dawn O'Porter
19 books1,518 followersDAWN O’PORTER lives in London with her husband Chris, her two boys Art and Valentine, and her cats Myrtle and Boo.
Dawn is the bestselling author of the novels The Cows and the Richard and Judy Book Club picks So Lucky and Cat Lady, and her non-fiction title Life in Pieces was also a Sunday Times bestseller.
Dawn started out in TV production but quickly landed in front of the camera, making numerous documentaries that included immersive investigations of Polygamy, Size Zero, Childbirth, Free Love, Breast Cancer and the movie Dirty Dancing.
Dawn’s journalism has appeared in multiple publications and she was the monthly columnist for Glamour magazine. She is now a full-time writer, designs dresses for Joanie Clothing, and has a large following on her Patreon blog.
Instagram: @hotpatooties
www.patreon.com/DawnOPorter
Dawn is the bestselling author of the novels The Cows and the Richard and Judy Book Club picks So Lucky and Cat Lady, and her non-fiction title Life in Pieces was also a Sunday Times bestseller.
Dawn started out in TV production but quickly landed in front of the camera, making numerous documentaries that included immersive investigations of Polygamy, Size Zero, Childbirth, Free Love, Breast Cancer and the movie Dirty Dancing.
Dawn’s journalism has appeared in multiple publications and she was the monthly columnist for Glamour magazine. She is now a full-time writer, designs dresses for Joanie Clothing, and has a large following on her Patreon blog.
Instagram: @hotpatooties
www.patreon.com/DawnOPorter
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 433 reviews
July 20, 2024
Hi Everyone, Dawn here, just giving myself a cheeky 5* review because, well, I LOVE this book! I just wanted to say hi and THANK YOU for reading Honey Bee. I hope you enjoyed it. I love reading reader reviews, even the bad ones (it's true!). Writing is such a solitary experience, so it's very exciting when the moment comes that the book is in your hands. Renée and Flo are very close to my heart, even though the books are fictional I can't deny that I pour myself into Renée. If you know anything about me you will know that our family histories have similarities. It has always been incredibly cathartic for me to write Renée, having felt many of her feels myself.
I hope you enjoy the book, and thank you SO much for reading it, I really appreciate it, Dawn x x x
I hope you enjoy the book, and thank you SO much for reading it, I really appreciate it, Dawn x x x
October 14, 2024
Relatable characters with real problems
January 3, 2025
First book of 2025 and my 1000th book ever 📚 I decided on reading a new book by one of my favourite author’s. She always delivers an easy to read book with an uplifting and inspiring message - what better way to start the NY than on a high 😃
I entered this book with HIGH expectations. I have loved all of Dawn’s previous books so there was no reason for this one to be any different. I also loved the concept of this book - EVER FEEL LIKE YOU’RE WINGING LIFE? Join the club! I was excited to see what best friends, Renee and Flo, would get up to in this book…
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
We already know, and love, Renee and Flo from 2 of Dawn’s previous books (The Paper Aeroplanes series) so for me this felt like an extension to that series. I love this pair so much because they are so different! I love Renee so much for her nativity and honesty; she is absolutely hilarious and brings a light-hearted side to every situation. She had me giggling all the way through this book. Even when she is nervous she does ‘jazz hands’ - humour is definitely a coping mechanism for her, but entertaining nonetheless! Flo is a little more serious, but real and very relatable in her own way. They both have opposing views on each other: while Flo says:“Just TRY to not be you here, OK? Just TRY!”, Renee is thinking: ‘God, professional Flo is so uptight’. But despite their differences they love each other like sisters and make a fantastically entertaining duo.
The book very much focuses on these best friends and their journey into adulthood. However, it isn’t exactly what they expected or longed for growing up. Renee still dreams of being a writer, but after spending the last few years in Spain, she has nothing to show for it so far. Flo on the other hand, has been off to University and worked in London. Both of them find themselves back on their home land of Guernsey for very different reasons. While Flo is hiding a serious secret addiction, Renee is also struggling to find her place in the world.
"I can report that if this is adulthood, I want out."
Both failing in work and love, we watch them bouncing from one disaster to the next as they learn how to fly. Will their friendship be strong enough to withstand the pressures they face?
"No matter how much we fly off in different directions, there is no Renée without Flo, and there is no Flo without Renée. We need each other to survive."
While this book was exceptionally funny, it also nearly had me in tears. The kindness of strangers really does make the world go wrong and restores my hope in humanity 🥹 I particularly loved Georgina’s character because of this; she was so full of life and kindness. Her inner confidence and love radiated through to her exterior making her shine so brightly. She made the Marketing office a better place for sure and it was nice to see some new characters, alongside many from the past.
This book is centred towards female friendships but is also predominantly focused on those who are looking for a place to belong. ‘When life stings, we all need a wing woman.’ 💥 Dawn deals with the complexities of female friendships very well. It is not an easy task, as it has to be one of life’s more challenging things. She brings us along for a very realistic ride, not shying away from the highs and lows of life. It is safe to say, Dawn has produced a spectacular story and there is absolutely nothing I didn’t love about this book so, with that being said, there is absolutely no reason not to give this book a BIG SMASHING 5 🌟
Some of my favourite quotes:
‘We are all running out of time. You can use it, or not. I choose to use it.’
‘We can’t fight the fact we are going to die; we just have to make sure we have the best time before we do’
‘Get over yourself. Life is to be enjoyed.’
"It’s a very unimpressive thing to say out loud, but a very comforting thing to feel inside: that all you really want is to have enough to get by, enough to be happy, and enough to be healthy. Nothing more. Just … enough."
Impatiently awaiting Dawn’s next book 🙇🏻♀️
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
I entered this book with HIGH expectations. I have loved all of Dawn’s previous books so there was no reason for this one to be any different. I also loved the concept of this book - EVER FEEL LIKE YOU’RE WINGING LIFE? Join the club! I was excited to see what best friends, Renee and Flo, would get up to in this book…
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
We already know, and love, Renee and Flo from 2 of Dawn’s previous books (The Paper Aeroplanes series) so for me this felt like an extension to that series. I love this pair so much because they are so different! I love Renee so much for her nativity and honesty; she is absolutely hilarious and brings a light-hearted side to every situation. She had me giggling all the way through this book. Even when she is nervous she does ‘jazz hands’ - humour is definitely a coping mechanism for her, but entertaining nonetheless! Flo is a little more serious, but real and very relatable in her own way. They both have opposing views on each other: while Flo says:“Just TRY to not be you here, OK? Just TRY!”, Renee is thinking: ‘God, professional Flo is so uptight’. But despite their differences they love each other like sisters and make a fantastically entertaining duo.
The book very much focuses on these best friends and their journey into adulthood. However, it isn’t exactly what they expected or longed for growing up. Renee still dreams of being a writer, but after spending the last few years in Spain, she has nothing to show for it so far. Flo on the other hand, has been off to University and worked in London. Both of them find themselves back on their home land of Guernsey for very different reasons. While Flo is hiding a serious secret addiction, Renee is also struggling to find her place in the world.
"I can report that if this is adulthood, I want out."
Both failing in work and love, we watch them bouncing from one disaster to the next as they learn how to fly. Will their friendship be strong enough to withstand the pressures they face?
"No matter how much we fly off in different directions, there is no Renée without Flo, and there is no Flo without Renée. We need each other to survive."
While this book was exceptionally funny, it also nearly had me in tears. The kindness of strangers really does make the world go wrong and restores my hope in humanity 🥹 I particularly loved Georgina’s character because of this; she was so full of life and kindness. Her inner confidence and love radiated through to her exterior making her shine so brightly. She made the Marketing office a better place for sure and it was nice to see some new characters, alongside many from the past.
This book is centred towards female friendships but is also predominantly focused on those who are looking for a place to belong. ‘When life stings, we all need a wing woman.’ 💥 Dawn deals with the complexities of female friendships very well. It is not an easy task, as it has to be one of life’s more challenging things. She brings us along for a very realistic ride, not shying away from the highs and lows of life. It is safe to say, Dawn has produced a spectacular story and there is absolutely nothing I didn’t love about this book so, with that being said, there is absolutely no reason not to give this book a BIG SMASHING 5 🌟
Some of my favourite quotes:
‘We are all running out of time. You can use it, or not. I choose to use it.’
‘We can’t fight the fact we are going to die; we just have to make sure we have the best time before we do’
‘Get over yourself. Life is to be enjoyed.’
"It’s a very unimpressive thing to say out loud, but a very comforting thing to feel inside: that all you really want is to have enough to get by, enough to be happy, and enough to be healthy. Nothing more. Just … enough."
Impatiently awaiting Dawn’s next book 🙇🏻♀️
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
September 13, 2024
3.5
Honeybee is my first Dawn O'Porter. I wasn't sure what to expect but what started out very promising quickly became a book that I kept losing patience with. I'm pretty sure that you'd need to be of a certain age to identify with either Flo or Renee.
Both girls were brought up on the idyllic island of Guernsey where the slow pace of life stifles Renee. All she wants is to get away and start her life as a writer in London. All Flo wants to do is be very good at her job in the Guernsey office of Magic Marketing - a company that has another office in London where Flo has transferred from.
Both girls have difficult family circumstances. Renee has lost both parents; Flo's father died and her relationship with her mother is permanently strained to breaking point.
As they settle back into island life Renee gets a job at Magic Marketing, much to Flo's chagrin. But the uptight, super-efficient Flo is hiding her own secrets and as Renee gets more and more involved with married CEO Ben, Flo's life begins to spin out of control.
I think my difficulties with the book stemmed from the fact that I've been there and done that but many years ago. I found it impossible to identify with the self-centred and careless Renee who only thinks about her own pleasure. It coloured the whole book for me because I was so irritated by her selfishness. She also came across as immature. Flo was marginally better but I suppose a lot of women in their early twenties struggle with their own place in the world at that age.
My favourite character was Lilian, the sassy and stylish old lady who lives in the flat below Flo and Renee. I identified more with Aunty Jo who is going through the menopause but not all women feel like they're going mad.
This book certainly covered the whole range of women's issues - pregnancy, substance abuse, menopause, adultery, ageing, sex and relationships. Perhaps there was an attempt to cover too much. I certainly think younger women will "get" this book better than I did.
Thankyou to Netgalley and HarperCollins UK for the advance review copy.
Honeybee is my first Dawn O'Porter. I wasn't sure what to expect but what started out very promising quickly became a book that I kept losing patience with. I'm pretty sure that you'd need to be of a certain age to identify with either Flo or Renee.
Both girls were brought up on the idyllic island of Guernsey where the slow pace of life stifles Renee. All she wants is to get away and start her life as a writer in London. All Flo wants to do is be very good at her job in the Guernsey office of Magic Marketing - a company that has another office in London where Flo has transferred from.
Both girls have difficult family circumstances. Renee has lost both parents; Flo's father died and her relationship with her mother is permanently strained to breaking point.
As they settle back into island life Renee gets a job at Magic Marketing, much to Flo's chagrin. But the uptight, super-efficient Flo is hiding her own secrets and as Renee gets more and more involved with married CEO Ben, Flo's life begins to spin out of control.
I think my difficulties with the book stemmed from the fact that I've been there and done that but many years ago. I found it impossible to identify with the self-centred and careless Renee who only thinks about her own pleasure. It coloured the whole book for me because I was so irritated by her selfishness. She also came across as immature. Flo was marginally better but I suppose a lot of women in their early twenties struggle with their own place in the world at that age.
My favourite character was Lilian, the sassy and stylish old lady who lives in the flat below Flo and Renee. I identified more with Aunty Jo who is going through the menopause but not all women feel like they're going mad.
This book certainly covered the whole range of women's issues - pregnancy, substance abuse, menopause, adultery, ageing, sex and relationships. Perhaps there was an attempt to cover too much. I certainly think younger women will "get" this book better than I did.
Thankyou to Netgalley and HarperCollins UK for the advance review copy.
November 2, 2024
EDIT: I have just been made aware this is part of a series (albeit standalones but would definitely explain my criticisms of the book). I think it’s very strange it’s not advertised as such and may potentially harm reviews! The books are Paper Aeroplanes & Goose!
After reading Cat Lady my expectations for this were so high but I was seriously disappointed.
When the book opened in 2001 and we were following two girls who were 22 I immediately thought we would be following them throughout their lives until present day, but nope. We spent the entire book in a 22 year old brain. What was the point of starting in 2001?
There’s no doubt everyone would be able to relate to these girls but as someone in their 30’s i just wasn’t interested by the end of the book. I would have loved to seen how their lives ended up.
I’m not sure who this book is aimed at as I don’t think 22 year olds could understand the message this book is trying to convey and anybody older would just get annoyed by the girls and their silly decisions after 300+ pages!!
After reading Cat Lady my expectations for this were so high but I was seriously disappointed.
When the book opened in 2001 and we were following two girls who were 22 I immediately thought we would be following them throughout their lives until present day, but nope. We spent the entire book in a 22 year old brain. What was the point of starting in 2001?
There’s no doubt everyone would be able to relate to these girls but as someone in their 30’s i just wasn’t interested by the end of the book. I would have loved to seen how their lives ended up.
I’m not sure who this book is aimed at as I don’t think 22 year olds could understand the message this book is trying to convey and anybody older would just get annoyed by the girls and their silly decisions after 300+ pages!!
August 19, 2024
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review, and I have to say, it was a struggle to finish. The author attempts to use humor to address serious topics like alcoholism, infidelity, 9/11, and menopause, but it often feels tone-deaf and uncomfortable.
The portrayal of the main characters, Renee and Flo, was particularly frustrating. Both repeatedly claim they want to live “adult” lives, but their actions are far from mature. Renee, a 22-year-old, begins an affair with her married, 32-year-old boss, Ben. The book paints Ben as the perfect man, describing him as desirable and talented, with all the women at his workplace coveting him. Predictably, Renee, who starts a temporary job at Flo’s workplace, becomes his choice. Despite being described as a “perfect” partner, Ben’s behavior is equally problematic—he sleeps with his receptionist while married and unrealistically idealizes Renee. He praises her as a talented writer despite her having no writing experience and is impressed by a trivial cheese slogan she comes up with in a meeting, calling it “brilliant.” This idealization of Renee seems more about her being a younger version of his equally blonde wife rather than any genuine recognition of her abilities.
Renee’s romanticization of the affair with Ben as “true love,” despite their minimal connection and his clear infidelity, highlights her emotional immaturity. Her inconsistent behavior is evident as she reacts with disgust towards a 33-year-old ex while finding her 32-year-old boss acceptable. Additionally, Renee’s attempts to justify her promiscuity by claiming that if there’s no intercourse, it isn’t “sex,” come across as shallow and misguided.
Flo is depicted as an alcoholic who frequently drinks to the point of blacking out. The book’s constant references to drinking—whether it’s grabbing drinks, going out for shots, or partying excessively—reinforce a tired stereotype about 22-year-olds. While Flo’s alcoholism is addressed with some seriousness, the lack of exploration into its causes leaves her character feeling incomplete.
The book also addresses menopause, which is a commendable topic to include, but it is handled poorly. Renee’s discussions with her Auntie Jo about menopause often feel exaggerated, making Auntie Jo seem somewhat unhinged. More troubling is Renee’s lack of basic understanding of menopause. At 22, it is unrealistic and surprising that she would be so uninformed about such a fundamental aspect of women’s health, diminishing her character’s credibility and relatability.
Additionally, the book suffers from poor editing, with numerous typos and a general sense of being unfinished. The contrast between the characters’ claims of wanting to be adults and their juvenile behavior is exhausting. Whether this was intentional or not, it only served to make the characters seem immature and unrelatable.
In the end, the humor in this book did not work for me, and its handling of important topics felt careless. If you’re seeking a thoughtful and nuanced exploration of complex issues, this book is likely to disappoint.
The portrayal of the main characters, Renee and Flo, was particularly frustrating. Both repeatedly claim they want to live “adult” lives, but their actions are far from mature. Renee, a 22-year-old, begins an affair with her married, 32-year-old boss, Ben. The book paints Ben as the perfect man, describing him as desirable and talented, with all the women at his workplace coveting him. Predictably, Renee, who starts a temporary job at Flo’s workplace, becomes his choice. Despite being described as a “perfect” partner, Ben’s behavior is equally problematic—he sleeps with his receptionist while married and unrealistically idealizes Renee. He praises her as a talented writer despite her having no writing experience and is impressed by a trivial cheese slogan she comes up with in a meeting, calling it “brilliant.” This idealization of Renee seems more about her being a younger version of his equally blonde wife rather than any genuine recognition of her abilities.
Renee’s romanticization of the affair with Ben as “true love,” despite their minimal connection and his clear infidelity, highlights her emotional immaturity. Her inconsistent behavior is evident as she reacts with disgust towards a 33-year-old ex while finding her 32-year-old boss acceptable. Additionally, Renee’s attempts to justify her promiscuity by claiming that if there’s no intercourse, it isn’t “sex,” come across as shallow and misguided.
Flo is depicted as an alcoholic who frequently drinks to the point of blacking out. The book’s constant references to drinking—whether it’s grabbing drinks, going out for shots, or partying excessively—reinforce a tired stereotype about 22-year-olds. While Flo’s alcoholism is addressed with some seriousness, the lack of exploration into its causes leaves her character feeling incomplete.
The book also addresses menopause, which is a commendable topic to include, but it is handled poorly. Renee’s discussions with her Auntie Jo about menopause often feel exaggerated, making Auntie Jo seem somewhat unhinged. More troubling is Renee’s lack of basic understanding of menopause. At 22, it is unrealistic and surprising that she would be so uninformed about such a fundamental aspect of women’s health, diminishing her character’s credibility and relatability.
Additionally, the book suffers from poor editing, with numerous typos and a general sense of being unfinished. The contrast between the characters’ claims of wanting to be adults and their juvenile behavior is exhausting. Whether this was intentional or not, it only served to make the characters seem immature and unrelatable.
In the end, the humor in this book did not work for me, and its handling of important topics felt careless. If you’re seeking a thoughtful and nuanced exploration of complex issues, this book is likely to disappoint.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 24, 2025
This reads well as a stand-alone book, but apparently, there are two books before this one that introduce Renee and Flo. I enjoyed it never the less, but I now need to go back and read the books in order. The main characters are 22 and are returning to their childhood home of Guernsey rekindling their friendship and is told in alternating their points of view. There are themes that are handled sensitvely, such as, alcoholism, menopause, infidelity, love, loss, body image, pregnancy, death of a parent, the impact of 9/11, strained family relationships, work relationships, and female friendships all thoughtfully written, but not crammed in. It's funny, but there are also sad elements, so I experienced a range of emotions whilst reading. The characters are superbly developed, and my favourites were Aunty Jo and Lillian (Mrs Mangle). The main message for me is about celebrating womanhood, the importance of female friendships, encouragement, and empowerment. It's relatable and poignant, and I'm not a 22 year old like Flo and Renee, although I was a stupid young adult at one time when drinking binges were commonplace, however, Aunty Jo, and her menopause is the stage I am in life. in really enjoyed this light-hearted cleanser of a read. In summary, it's a feel-good, raw, coming of age, relateable, super read.
March 23, 2025
I think I’m just too old to read a book about twenty somethings still finding their way. I realize this is a series but I don’t think reading about when they were kids together is really necessary. These two are a very very very young and immature 22 years old. I finished it but it wasn’t for me. More like 1.5 stars.
September 19, 2024
Not up to her usual standard. I will leave it at that
February 23, 2025
Wholesome and a nice read but got increasingly random towards the end and felt a bit rushed ? Cliched ? I would have ate this up when I was 16 though I will say that
January 17, 2025
Reminiscent of an Alderton story, this is such a great exploration of being in your 20s, with over the top dramatic moments, and belly laughing encounters between characters.
September 27, 2024
Honeybee by Dawn O’Porter is out NOW!
[AD: thanks to Harper Fiction]
This is a book about female friendship. Renée and Flo navigate the unexpected challenges of adulthood, discovering that sticking together is key to finding their best lives.
Flo is struggling with her mental health and has some issues with alcohol. Renée is also struggling to find her place in the world. Can they be the person that each of them needs to get each other through the tough times? Because everyone needs a wing woman 🐝
The highs and lows that friendship can bring, particularly in your twenties. And Flo and Renée are a classic case of opposites attract!
It’s funny but tragic, too, at times, and for me (no longer in my twenties) very nostalgic.
A joyful read 🐝 🍯
[AD: thanks to Harper Fiction]
This is a book about female friendship. Renée and Flo navigate the unexpected challenges of adulthood, discovering that sticking together is key to finding their best lives.
Flo is struggling with her mental health and has some issues with alcohol. Renée is also struggling to find her place in the world. Can they be the person that each of them needs to get each other through the tough times? Because everyone needs a wing woman 🐝
The highs and lows that friendship can bring, particularly in your twenties. And Flo and Renée are a classic case of opposites attract!
It’s funny but tragic, too, at times, and for me (no longer in my twenties) very nostalgic.
A joyful read 🐝 🍯
November 13, 2025
Dawn O'Porter, where have you been and why did it take me so long to discover your books? (Thank you F. for your review of one of her other books). I'm going through your books as if eating chocolate (sorry, not fond of candy!). This one was my second (both on audio and whenever possible I want to keep it like that) and I find the genre difficult to describe, maybe real women fiction (as opposed to idealized/romanticized women fiction)? Real women with real problems.
Best friends Renée and Flo grew up in the Guernsey island, but on the verge of adulthood their lives went separate ways and now, a few years later, they converge again in Guernsey. Renée wants to save up some money so she can move to London and Flo is just back from the capital city, not intending to return. But are they still friends? There are many topics covered here, and no sweet pills are given (which I appreciate). I didn't especially identify with Renée or Flo (though Renée made me laugh!), but I appreciated secondary characters like Aunty Jo, neighbor Lilian and the female co-workers.
I know that there are other books about Renée and Flo's friendship (Paper Aeroplanes & Goose), but this was the only one I could find on audio (on Libby), so I just went ahead without having read the previous books. I didn't feel that I needed to have read those in order to get this, though this might have spoilers from the other ones (?). To be seen!
Best friends Renée and Flo grew up in the Guernsey island, but on the verge of adulthood their lives went separate ways and now, a few years later, they converge again in Guernsey. Renée wants to save up some money so she can move to London and Flo is just back from the capital city, not intending to return. But are they still friends? There are many topics covered here, and no sweet pills are given (which I appreciate). I didn't especially identify with Renée or Flo (though Renée made me laugh!), but I appreciated secondary characters like Aunty Jo, neighbor Lilian and the female co-workers.
I know that there are other books about Renée and Flo's friendship (Paper Aeroplanes & Goose), but this was the only one I could find on audio (on Libby), so I just went ahead without having read the previous books. I didn't feel that I needed to have read those in order to get this, though this might have spoilers from the other ones (?). To be seen!
September 11, 2024
**Listened to the audio book as well as reading the electronic version**
I have really enjoyed Dawn O'Porters books in the past, and i'm a big fan of her in general.That is why it pains me to write a negative review.
But this book was just so slow!! Nothing happens!! I appreciate it was more of a character driven narrative rather than a plot driven one. I have read Goose and Airplanes - and it still didn't grip me. (Not realising before reading that it was linked to Porter's early books - which I loved by the way!)
It just felt really ploddy and I didn't enjoy my reading experience.
I preferred the audio book than the hard copy as the narrator really tried to bring it to life - which I didn't necessarily get from just reading.
I really hope Dawn O Porter's next book is back to her usual top form and I feel more engaged!
I have really enjoyed Dawn O'Porters books in the past, and i'm a big fan of her in general.That is why it pains me to write a negative review.
But this book was just so slow!! Nothing happens!! I appreciate it was more of a character driven narrative rather than a plot driven one. I have read Goose and Airplanes - and it still didn't grip me. (Not realising before reading that it was linked to Porter's early books - which I loved by the way!)
It just felt really ploddy and I didn't enjoy my reading experience.
I preferred the audio book than the hard copy as the narrator really tried to bring it to life - which I didn't necessarily get from just reading.
I really hope Dawn O Porter's next book is back to her usual top form and I feel more engaged!
October 18, 2025
3.5⭐️
Classic Dawn O’Porter - the right mix of hilarious and heartfelt to counterbalance the dark, crude, and a little disturbing.
I didn’t realise this followed the same characters in the Paper Aeroplanes series though, so am annoyed I’ve now read the third one before the second! You can still enjoy the book on its own, but I like to read things in order!
Classic Dawn O’Porter - the right mix of hilarious and heartfelt to counterbalance the dark, crude, and a little disturbing.
I didn’t realise this followed the same characters in the Paper Aeroplanes series though, so am annoyed I’ve now read the third one before the second! You can still enjoy the book on its own, but I like to read things in order!
March 3, 2025
I have a difficult relationship with Dawn O'Porter's books. I always want to read them, and generally find them enjoyable to read, but often have a lot of issues with their content/messaging. I also really like Dawn as a person (and have done since her TV days) so I feel a bit mean criticising them, but, this one in particular was just not very good. At all.
There were a few things I liked: the Guernsey setting, the early 2000s setting, and Flo - I found her quite relatable in that she loves being a "behind the scenes" person who organises things for others and doesn't want any limelight. Renee however was extremely annoying, but I'll get to that.
Spoilers follow, you've been warned.
Plot/compellingness 2/5
Themes 2/5
Characters 3/5 (mostly for Flo and some of the side characters. Renee was just irritating and immature)
Emotional resonance 1/5
Writing style 2/5
There were a few things I liked: the Guernsey setting, the early 2000s setting, and Flo - I found her quite relatable in that she loves being a "behind the scenes" person who organises things for others and doesn't want any limelight. Renee however was extremely annoying, but I'll get to that.
Spoilers follow, you've been warned.
Plot/compellingness 2/5
Themes 2/5
Characters 3/5 (mostly for Flo and some of the side characters. Renee was just irritating and immature)
Emotional resonance 1/5
Writing style 2/5
August 16, 2024
Two best friends whose relationship faltered reconnect on the island where they grew up, and they both realise they need one another more than they care to admit.
Flo and Renee meet in Guernsey at an unexpected funeral and move in together amidst awkwardness. They wrestle through an argument that caused their strong friendship to break a few years ago.
Renee dreams of leaving her childhood home and becoming a writer in London.
Flo is escaping London with a secret that she battles to hide.
Then, they both end up working at the same marketing company and living together, which puts additional strains on their friendship and gives them an opportunity to be there for one another once again.
It's funny but tragic, too, at times—the kind of humour you expect from a Dawn O'Porter book.
I enjoyed reading this, an easy summer read filled with more serious topics and humour.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Harper Collins for an ARC.
Flo and Renee meet in Guernsey at an unexpected funeral and move in together amidst awkwardness. They wrestle through an argument that caused their strong friendship to break a few years ago.
Renee dreams of leaving her childhood home and becoming a writer in London.
Flo is escaping London with a secret that she battles to hide.
Then, they both end up working at the same marketing company and living together, which puts additional strains on their friendship and gives them an opportunity to be there for one another once again.
It's funny but tragic, too, at times—the kind of humour you expect from a Dawn O'Porter book.
I enjoyed reading this, an easy summer read filled with more serious topics and humour.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Harper Collins for an ARC.
May 16, 2025
I don’t know what it is about Dawn O’Porter, but her sense of humour always appeals to me! This was another good read, a bit uncomfortable at times - to be expected - but very funny. It did hit on some topical issues such as alcoholism and grief, both of which I felt the story dealt well with. The mention of 9/11 when the girls were in London - I can’t imagine how scary that would’ve been, I think we all remember where we were that day. All in all, I really enjoyed it. I think this might be a marmite read, not one for my mum, but it certainly entertained me!
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an advance copy of this novel - apologies I’m reading it much later than intended.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an advance copy of this novel - apologies I’m reading it much later than intended.
September 17, 2024
My 5th Dawn O’Porter book and I was so excited for it but sadly, this lacked the special spark that her other books have had :( This one felt too forced, a tad cringey and under-developed.
November 29, 2025
I didn’t realise this was part of a collection so haven’t read the other two Flo and Renee books, but I don’t think it mattered! This was a really enjoyable and accurate depiction of the messiness that is female life in your early 20s. It made me laugh but there were also lots of heartwarming/heartwrenching moments. Not a hugely plot-driven story but I found myself whizzing through it nonetheless. I need a follow up on Lillian!! It also made me want to visit Guernsey with its beautiful descriptions of the scenery and homeliness of it all. Only minor annoyances and one of them was the obsessive and unnecessary descriptions of what clothes size or weight the women were, but then I realised (sadly) that is the kind of thing you’re obsessed with as a woman at that age and that time.
September 20, 2024
When life gives you lemons, make sure you have a decent wing woman who will sweep them straight in the bin and pour you a glass of wine. Renée and Flo had their hopes pinned on securing high flying marketing jobs and winning at life, but reality keeps stamping all over their plans. Adulting is so much harder than they imagined with disappointments in work and love. The pair nose dive into one disaster after another, but arm in arm, they tackle it together with lots of laughs alongside the melée disasters. A wonderful celebration of female friendship and solidarity. A freeing and uplifting read despite some heavy topics. #honeybee #dawnoporter #netgalley
September 26, 2024
Happy publication day 🎉🥳
Have you read Paper Aeroplanes? I don’t think it’s essential as there are plenty of little recaps throughout Honeybee, but having reread Paper Aeroplanes recently I definitely felt really comfortable to be back on Guernsey with Renee and Flo. This time they’re having a go at adulting and finding it all to be a bit of a false advertisement.
For the most oart I really enjoyed Honeybee, I was the same are as the girls when the book is set in 2001, and was also finding adulting to be an ordeal. I think I’d have rated the novel a bit higher if I’d have got the benefit of hearing the end, I hope I do.
Lovely narration.
** Update now that I’ve listened to the final chapters, I adored them and the book deserves another star ⭐️
Unfortunately for me there were some serious sound issues. From around 00:16 until the end of track 6 is silent. All of track 27 is static with no background audio. Then the final chapter until the authors note is silent. To the publishers I’d really love to listen to what is missing. I deleted the copy and re-downloaded to no avail. I’m happy to update if the content is reissued
Thank you to Harper Collins Audio UK and NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to this ELC
Have you read Paper Aeroplanes? I don’t think it’s essential as there are plenty of little recaps throughout Honeybee, but having reread Paper Aeroplanes recently I definitely felt really comfortable to be back on Guernsey with Renee and Flo. This time they’re having a go at adulting and finding it all to be a bit of a false advertisement.
For the most oart I really enjoyed Honeybee, I was the same are as the girls when the book is set in 2001, and was also finding adulting to be an ordeal. I think I’d have rated the novel a bit higher if I’d have got the benefit of hearing the end, I hope I do.
Lovely narration.
** Update now that I’ve listened to the final chapters, I adored them and the book deserves another star ⭐️
Unfortunately for me there were some serious sound issues. From around 00:16 until the end of track 6 is silent. All of track 27 is static with no background audio. Then the final chapter until the authors note is silent. To the publishers I’d really love to listen to what is missing. I deleted the copy and re-downloaded to no avail. I’m happy to update if the content is reissued
Thank you to Harper Collins Audio UK and NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to this ELC
November 5, 2024
I had no idea this was a third instalment to an established series!
I’ve read Dawn O’Porter’s other works but haven’t made it to Paper Aeroplanes.
Luckily, you can get stuck into this one without the context of the other two books and no trouble following the history between Renée and Flo.
It captured the strange in between of finishing university and suddenly trying to juggle still being young but having to now be an ‘adult’.
As well as touching on a lot of other very tough subjects.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher.
3/5 ⭐
I’ve read Dawn O’Porter’s other works but haven’t made it to Paper Aeroplanes.
Luckily, you can get stuck into this one without the context of the other two books and no trouble following the history between Renée and Flo.
It captured the strange in between of finishing university and suddenly trying to juggle still being young but having to now be an ‘adult’.
As well as touching on a lot of other very tough subjects.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher.
3/5 ⭐
January 22, 2025
Love books based in Guernsey! You can picture it all so clearly! Fun read!
July 28, 2025
Finished at truck fest - lovely bit of reading in the morning before the music began! 3.75. Liked the two main characters
September 14, 2024
This is a book about female friendship. Renée and Flo are friends who live in Guernsey. Both are venturing into adulthood and come across as quite immature for their ages (22). They move into an apartment together and then end up working at the same office, although not intentionally.
The book covers a few topics, difficult family relationships, grief, falling in love, alcoholism. Some of the terminology used made me cringe a bit, but I think it’s because I’m old and a bit of a prude and my brain doesn’t think like a 22 year old.
This was an easy read, I followed the characters easily. 3.5 / 5, rounded up.
Thanks to NetGalley UK and HarperCollins UK for the ARC.
The book covers a few topics, difficult family relationships, grief, falling in love, alcoholism. Some of the terminology used made me cringe a bit, but I think it’s because I’m old and a bit of a prude and my brain doesn’t think like a 22 year old.
This was an easy read, I followed the characters easily. 3.5 / 5, rounded up.
Thanks to NetGalley UK and HarperCollins UK for the ARC.
January 28, 2025
a fun read!
October 21, 2024
An enjoyable listen. Excellently narrated. Great characters and very funny. Somewhere between 4 and 5 stars for me. Cat Lady still being my favourite. If you enjoy Dawn O’Porter then you will enjoy this. Recommended.
August 17, 2025
I didn’t expect to love this as much as I did - such fun characters while dealing with serious topics, would recommend to a friend
October 24, 2024
Always been a fan of Dawn O’Porter. Listening to Honey Bee on audio gave an extra dimension to what feels like an alternative Bridget Jones saga post Covid. Definitely make a good Netflix series.
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