One for the Road

The Macabe Brothers #3

by Elliot Fletcher

Opposites attract in this steamy Scottish romance between a grumpy doctor and the single mother who lives next door, from the author of Whisky Business. 

Burned-out GP Alistair Macabe never planned to return to his tiny hometown on the Isle of Skye. Especially not to live next door to Isla, a newly single mom with zero time for grumpy doctors.

But when Alistair needs a popularity boost in order to start taking on patients again, and Isla wants to ruffle her smug ex’s feathers, a fake relationship seems like the perfect solution.

And with the pair taking their roles very seriously, they might just forget they are pretending after all …



Opposites attractFake DatingForced ProximitySingle momGrumpy x sunshine

Genres: Romance, Contemporary Romance, Contemporary, Scotland, Fake Dating, Slow Burn, Forced Proximity

Kindle Edition

Expected publication June 4, 2026

Reviews

[Andrea ☾ [is inconsistently consistant] · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 ⭐️ This series is such a good time, every time!

Listen, this is an ARC review because, somehow, I got lucky enough to get this as an ARC through Net Galley, which is still an unbelievable experience almost 5 years into deciding this was going to be my go-to hobby. Getting some of my favourite authors' books FOR FREE!? Like, someone pinch me, you know?

The first book in this series was a rec I got through a friend on Goodreads, and I'm so, so happy I gave that first book a chance! Elliot Fletcher was an author I'd never heard of before, but something just felt right. After that first book, I was ready to devour anything this author may have put out in the future. Months later, I was shocked to find the second book I'd been waiting patiently for on Net Galley. And to my even bigger shock, I got the ARC! And now, here we are, years later, another ARC by Elliot Fletcher, and another 4-star read!

This took a slightly different tone than the past two books, but there's still that steadiness this author brings to their romances. Alistair was a character I'd wanted to see get his own book since the very first time we hear of him in book one. And after Junie's book!? I needed to see his side of the story. Maybe see if this guy could be redeemable. And, boy, is he! Isla's story was also interesting and heartbreaking to read about, but everything makes sense in the end.

Just... this series is so good. I'm 10000% reading whatever else this author's got cooking up.

[ilana · Rating 4 out of 5]

Big thank you to Avon for the eARC 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

This was unbelievably sweet (see what I did there?) I have loved the Macabe brothers since summer ‘23 and it’s so bittersweet to say goodbye to them. Alistair was always an interesting guy to me so I wasn’t sure exactly how she was going to write his story, but it was so so good. Isla is a single mom to the most adorable, Lego loving little girl Teddy, and when the two of them move into the cottage/condo sort of home right next to grumpy town doctor Alistair, the two don’t get off on the right foot.

I really loved the progression of their relationship from dislike to intrigue to simmering tension to full blown attraction (and in Alistair’s case, wanting to drop everything for her and Teddy) — it felt very natural, not too quick, not too drawn out. They also weren’t perfect which I appreciated; I love a flawed character because then we get one of the best parts of a story… the character growth. Every conflict made sense, they had to learn how to communicate since they didn’t have the same style of it, and they put other things over their relationship at times which totally makes sense in my opinion. If a couple has no identity outside of their relationship, I’m not interesting. But these two had their own goals, hopes, dreams, and achievements, and didn’t dim anything for the other just because they’re now in it for the long haul. And I appreciate that Teddy (the child) wasn’t pushed to the side and forgotten about OR made to seem older/younger than she actually was. Too often you have a child in a book and they don’t act anything like a child or are ignored altogether, but not this time.

If you haven’t read any of the Macabe brothers books, I would highly recommend because they are the perfect blend of hot Scottish men and swoon-worthy romance 💘

[Kelsey-rose💘 · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to Harper Collins for sending me an invite email for this book ( after you denied me) . I appreciate the link as this definitely was a book I was looking forward to this year . I love the cover so much . I don’t think I’ll get a physical copy of it because it’s not an all time fave but y’know . It was an honour to be sent this book .

I read the second book as an arc last year and I tried to read the first book last month ( but dnfed it ) so I’m happy that this book is good like the second and not boring and mid like the first . This won’t be for everyone though . I may like this alot but not everyone will . I can say this did not play it safe unlike the first book in this although not the perfect book was fun read - it was enjoyable and kept me entertained.

The mmc is the ex fiance of the fmc from the last book . And the brother of the mmc ( from the first and second ) . He also is a guy that is lowkey a terrible person in the past 2 books - so this is his redemption arc romance book .

This is grumpy sunshine done right - it’s also a neighbour romance and the fmc is a single mother . Mmc is a doctor - fmc is a baker . It’s obviously small town and well its set in Scotland . It’s a slowburn romance wise - not really wont spice wise .

I do wanna say the argument between the fmc and mmc at like 70% - 80% did not need to end in sex . I can’t say I hated that it did but I also wish before they had sex etc - they talked stuff out. It’s like the makeup sex without the breakup . If you know me you know I’m very big on wanting communication- solving issues temporarily by having sex doesn’t help . Talking about things helps .

There is no 3rd act breakup and that’s a win . For those like me who look to see if books have a 3rd act breakup - im here to tell you they don’t . I mean they take a “break” but it’s not a breakup . It’s like a week of space - that’s all ) . So I would say it’s no 3rd act breakup - but instead a 3rd act conflict that results in space without a breakup . - There is no grovelling or anything .
_______________________________________________

This is just me saying how much I hate the fmcs ex not really part of the review but it’s non spoiler)


This is non spoiler tbh cus like it’s got nothing to do with the romance / main plot of the book ) it’s just me hating the fmcs ex . HES NOT THE MMC BTW THEY ARE DIFFERENT PEOPLE

I absolutely hate Cameron the fmcs ex - he plays the terrible ex bf who’s a pos so well - I mean he is that so I’m glad he was written that way . He’s a POS who cheated on the fmc with his ex gf ( high school sweetheart) after knocking the fmc up - basically making her quit baking classes & made her basically be a “stay a home mum” .

NOT only that , he made her move to HIS small town only for him to & years later cheat on her with his ex gf . What’s worse he basically made her and his ex be friends cus he was still close to her . Basically it’s a story of ex going “don’t worry about her she’s just a friend “ and sleeping with her . And he’s also a pos dad - he left the fmc ( Made her move out of his house) . Literally only cares about his kid when it comes to being able to use xyz thing against the fmc .

She has full custody of the kid all he has to fucking do is see his kid once a week - on weekends and he seems to always say “I’m busy “ when it’s his turn . He only has to see his kid for 2 days and he literally can’t be asked to do that - istg he’s a deadbeat dad and a cheat . And he literally is back with his ex gf he left his baby mama for his ex .

And then like 70% he’s like comes to her home - basically tells her that her bf is using her and Shit and says - “ I want you back - things between em and the woman I cheated on you with aren’t going well - I want to be a family again “ dude this man istg I hate this man . He is like saying your bf is lying to you and how he’ll be there for her after alistair ( said bf ) hurts her.

Classic pos ex bf . Trying to cause problems in a
Relationship cus he’s a jealous man who can’t seem to understand that like he isn’t entitled to her . He hurt her and then literally didn’t gaf about her or the kid . He only cares now cus his “toy” is being “used” by someone else . Hes like a kid who put down a toy and then screams about how he wants it back after someone else plays with it .


—————————————————————————————-
Preread : I’m excited for this . funny story - the publisher denied me this arc but I’m signed up for their influencer list shit thing ( basically emails)

. Edit apparently said email was sent to some people via their NetGalley email so maybe I was chosen for an arc after they denied me idk . Either way I have it and i appreciate it

I do hope that I like it as much as the second one and it’s not boring like the first one

[Vénitia | Vee’s Bookish Corner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Elliot Fletcher is a miracle worker! 💕

Rating : ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5)
Spice : 🌶️🌶️🌶 (3/5)
POV : Dual
Tropes : sunshine single mom X grumpy doctor • small Scottish town • age gap • fake dating • dislike to love
Taylor Swift song : Daylight

After reading Scotch on the Rocks last year, I have been very impatient to read this 3rd book and see how Elliot was going to make me like Alistair. And boy, did she do more than make me like him! She is a true miracle worker because, let me tell you, it was not going to be an easy feat! But she. did. it. 👏🏼

From the very first chapter, and meeting Isla and Teddy, I knew this book would have my heart. I'd been struggling to read for quite a few months, feeling like the stories I read just didn't hit the way they used to, but I just blazed through these pages, laughing out loud and kicking my little feet!

Once again, Elliot writes characters that are true and raw. They're not perfect, but they're doing their best, and that's just so damn relatable. I think both of them have a really interesting arc. After learning how Alistair cares for the people he loves, he really grew on me! *Hello acts-of-service-boyfriend* And Isla growing into herself and learning to stand up for herself was so inspiring to read 🥹

It was so so nice to see the whole Macabe family throughout the book. Like, they're so welcoming I want them to adopt me or something!

Now... can we talk about how much I want Heather's book!? 👀


My favorite quote 👇🏼

When you aren’t looking, my brother stares at you like you hung the fucking moon then went back to add the stars.

[Thank you NetGalley and HarperCollins for letting me read this ARC in exchange for an honest review]

[Marissa | goingonbookcation · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75/5⭐️ • 2/5🌶️ • 0/5😢

Another Macabe brother story? SAY LESS. I am obsessed with this family and their small Scottish town, so I was absolutely sold on Alistair’s much needed redemption arc. While there was a bit of a slow start, I did enjoy the neighbor/enemies to lovers bit and watching the romance develop as Alistair let his guard down. I appreciated the care the author took with the FMC as a single mother and her dedication to her daughter. Fingers crossed we get Heather’s book next and more single mom representation!

Thank you to NetGalley for an advanced copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

[Anna Liljeroth]

First of all, THANK YOU TO NETGALLEY AND HARPER COLLINS FOR LETTING ME READ THIS E-ARC

I read Whiskey Business and Scotch on the Rocks earlier this year, and when I was aware that Alistair's book was coming out, I could barely contain my excitement. Being able to snatch an E-ARC was the best thing ever.

I fell in love with Kinleith from book one, and hearing fleetingly about Alistair had me very intrigued. Something about this grumpy doctor who’s made some questionable decisions and who fled from Kinleith to build a new life had me weak. I knew I was gonna fall in love with this magic man who just wants to take care of everyone but has a hard time showing it. This being a problem solver x chaotic mess resonated with me as the resident chaotic mess having a problem-solver boyfriend.

Enough about the man, you will have to read the book to know more (and trust me, it’s so worth it). When it comes to Isla, I just wanna wrap her in bubblewrap and protect her from the world. This beautiful woman has been betrayed by the one man who’s supposed to protect and cherish her. Luckily, she breaks through the walls of her grumpy neighbour (hello forced proximity) because this man CHERISHES her like no other. Isla’s personal growth was truly inspiring. The way she goes from doormat (sorry, but it’s kinda true) to a badass woman !!! I love.

Lastly, I need to talk a little bit about my baby Teddy. She was truly a fresh breath through this story, and as someone who usually has a hard time with children in books, Teddy was so well-written. Her mood swings and feelings were so valid throughout the entire story. Her being the one to break down Alistair's walls first made me all giddy inside.

I loved every second of this read, and if you want a desperate, pathetic man with slutty little glasses, LOOK NO FURTHER. Alistair Macabe is right here for you.

[Carlota Silva · Rating 5 out of 5]

ArC Review: I don’t know what it says about me that Alistair is my favourite brother by like a mile , but I’m just going with it 😂
I think the depth given to his character was really well thought out and I love how we get a balance of a messy character with a very human past; but who is also very self-aware of his flaws and personal shortcomings.
Isla is the FMC from the series that I relate to the most (with the exception of the baking skills sadly) , and I loved seeing her come into herself and set her boundaries.
I’m a big believer that if you surround yourself with the right people at the right time ; your best self will come through and that was exactly the case with Alistair and Isla. Their relationship felt like two puzzle pieces clicking together so smoothly and complementary.
I really enjoyed Teddy’s role in the story - I love when kids see right through adult’s BS.
I also want to highlight how this novel slightly points out the ongoing issues with the NHS, very subtle but very present.
The fake dating / forced proximity trope was really well executed; the plot and the characters made it really hard to put the book down!
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and HarperCollins for the chance to read this ARC!

[Morgan Williams-Franklin · Rating 5 out of 5]

To say I’m obsessed might be an understatement, Alister and Isla were the PERFECT depiction of a grumpy/sunshine fake dating story! I’ve been waiting forever for Alister’s redemption arc story, and Isla was the most perfect pairing.

These two had such a slow start to even a friendship, that it made the emotions and experiences they shared in their split cottage feel so much more impactful and real. Isla coming away from a long (toxic) relationship, learning to love and trust while Alister is learning to overcome his own self doubt was set perfectly in a small town on the Isle of Skye. With a more slow approach to their (eventual) love, you get a much better payoff once they admit to their feelings. Seriously, I LOVED THEM.

I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention TEDDY THE MIST ADORABLE CHILD IN A SINGLE PARENT BOOK. She added such a cool layer to the story and came with such a fun personality to really chip away at Alister’s layers. I LOVED HER.

Thank you so much to HarperCollins and NetGalley for the eARC!

[Quyen S · Rating 3 out of 5]

ARC review

This was a cute rom com with good character development. I did find some plot elements a tad predictable, which kept me from rating higher. I didn’t realize that it was part of a series and will likely look to read other books in the series.

[lali ✰]

so happy to have this in my hands already, adding this to my (already huge) april tbr

[Oana · Rating 5 out of 5]

This got me out of my slump so u better believe I am giving 5⭐️
Rtc

[Olivia✨ (bookingitwitholivia) · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a perfect conclusion to such an unforgettable series!!! The Macabe Brothers Series is definitely one of those book series that’ll stick with me forever!

Starting off, I absolutely adored both Alistair and Isla, along with Isla’s young daughter, Teddy. The story starts off with Alistair and Isla being neighbours who haven’t gotten off to the best start. Both characters couldn’t be more different than each other - while Isla, a single mum, is this ray-of-sunshine type character whose life is full of colour, fun and a bit of added chaos, Alistair is the complete opposite - he is very orderly and quite closed off giving him this grumpy exterior.

The pair come to a beneficial agreement - they fake date. Alistair improves his likability outside of being a GP meanwhile Isla has the opportunity to make her ex and father of her child jealous after he left her for another woman.

As the story progresses, we really see both Alistair and Isla’s characters evolve in different ways. Isla is beginning to come to the realisation that Cam isn’t worth her tears anymore, and that her and Teddy deserve so much better instead of waiting around for Cam to realise that for himself. Alistair, eager to get back to working in Glasgow, never had the intention of staying in Kinleith for too long after the passing of his father especially after learning that he left his GP practice for him in his will. Desperate to do something for himself instead of the hand-me-downs from his father and the “I’ll put in a good word for you” gestures, Alistair intends to sell the practice but soon realises his life is looking a lot better in Kinleith than he thought after falling for Isla.

I loved seeing the personal growth of both of these characters especially since they complimented each other so well. In the previous book, we get Alistair whose ex-fiancé, Juniper, ends up with his brother Callum resulting in a fight between the brothers. We also hear about what went down between Alistair and Juniper, making Alistair somewhat unlikable. In One For The Road, we see that Alistair is a man whose love language is acts of service. While Isla isn’t this broken bird that needs fixing, Alistair shows her ways that he loves her by caring for her and Teddy. Alistair also finally allows himself to love while Isla allows herself to be loved the way she and Teddy deserve. Seeing Alistair go from “get off my lawn” grumpy old man vibe to falling so hard for Isla was everything!!!

I need to have a special mention for Isla’s daughter, Teddy, as she was such a special part of the story in helping Isla and Alistair come together. I loved the little bond that her and Alistair ended up having together, and the way she spoke to Isla about big feelings.

I personally loved the way that the relationship between Alistair and Isla didn’t feel rushed, and us as readers went through every emotion with them. Isla was that perfect character to knock through Alistair’s grumpy exterior while Alistair was also the perfect character to help ground Isla and show her how it feels to be loved.

This book was truly beautiful and easily one of my favourite reads of 2026. Elliot Fletcher has done a beautiful job at allowing these character's to come to life in such a heartfelt way. Alistair and Isla’s characters brought the best out of each others. If you love a book with a small town vibe, found family and characters that you will absolutely adore then I cannot recommend this series enough! This one really put me through all the emotions. I’m excited to see what Elliot writes next!

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐⭐💫
Read this book for:
🥃 Single Mom
🩷 Yearning
🥃 Fake Dating
🩷 Opposites Attract
🥃 Doctor x Baker
🩷 Neighbors

Synopsis
Burnt-out GP Alistair Macabe never thought he’d end up back in his hometown on the Isle of Skye. Yet after walking away from a demanding career that left him exhausted and disillusioned, the quiet island seems like the only place left to regroup.

Unfortunately, the locals aren’t exactly lining up to become his patients.

Living next door is Isla, a fiercely protective single mum who has no interest in the grumpy doctor who suddenly appeared in her life. With a painful breakup still fresh and a smug ex who seems convinced she’ll come crawling back, Isla has no patience for complications.

But when Alistair realizes that his reputation could use a boost and Isla decides she’d love to make her ex a little jealous, an unlikely plan takes shape. They will pretend to be a couple.

It should be simple. Smile for the neighbours. Hold hands at the pub. Make their story believable.

Except the longer they keep up the act, the more convincing it starts to feel. And on a small island where everyone is watching, pretending to fall in love might be the most dangerous game of all.

My Thoughts
After seeing Yearning as a trope, I was a little skeptical, especially since I didn’t love the way it was handled in Scotch on the Rocks. That one leaned a bit too far into stalker territory for my taste. But Elliot Fletcher completely proved me wrong with this book, because wow, it was so good.

I absolutely loved the grumpy neighbor falls for the single mom dynamic. Isla has been through such a rough breakup. Honestly, even calling it just a breakup feels like an understatement when you consider how awful Cameron was. Everything that came out of his mouth? Yikes. Total asshole. And yet, despite all of that, Isla still shows up for Teddy in every way that matters. She sacrifices so much to be the best mom she can be, especially financially. Truly, everyone deserves a mom like Isla.

And then there’s Alistair, the grumpy neighbor who ends up being exactly what they both need. Teddy completely melts him first, just by being her curious, genuine self, asking the kinds of questions any kid her age would. It was so natural and sweet to watch. And later on, Isla figures out how to reach that same soft side of him. Seeing that gradual shift in Alistair was one of my favorite parts. By the end, he has shed so much of that gruff exterior and allowed himself to be soft, to be happy, to finally have what he has been longing for all along.

What I really loved is how they showed up for each other. They saw each other clearly, the real versions of themselves, and even tried to help the other understand how they are perceived by the outside world. That emotional honesty made their connection feel so genuine.

I will say, though, Cameron and Annie absolutely did not get what they deserved. After everything they put Isla through, they deserved so much worse. I am still a little bitter about that, not gonna lie. Hopefully karma catches up with them eventually.

And please, please tell me this is not the last book in the Macabre series. We really need a Heather book.

[Laura Black Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

ONE FOR THE ROAD is Exhibit A for why I read romance - this is terrific!

The Isle of Skye is the perfect setting for a small-town, slow-burn, fake-dating romance – lots of weather, grudge-holding townsfolk and a Spring festival, all mixed up with the sprawling Macabe family. Middle brother Alistair has been in the background for Books 1 and 2 in this series, where he is a bit of a villain.

Isla and her daughter Teddy rent an isolated semi-detached cottage after her relationship implodes. Their neighbour is the local doctor Alistair, who is fastidious and grumpy, and Isla initially feels like he is judging her as he witnesses all her troubles.

Both Isla and Alistair have their challenges so it’s not long before they call a truce, because Alistair needs to work on his image, and Isla needs a hand to win the festival baking competition if she’s going to get out of debt.

Isla is a delight. She has some body insecurity, and she wants to find the best in people. The idea of giving her ex the chance to do the right thing is key to her personality - and part of the plot. She’s a terrific mother but feels like she’s not doing enough for Teddy. The strands woven in here are cleverly handled as Cam, Isla’s ex, isn’t paying family support – which makes Isla and Teddy's situation feel precarious. Isla doesn’t want to push Cam, or depend on a man, so when Alistair steps in, it’s awkward for everyone.

One thing that makes this book so very special is the character work – especially of Alistair who is so satisfyingly complex. Yes, he’s burnt out, cranky and dour, and so unhappy with both his professional and personal lives, but he is also caring and attentive, hardworking and conscientious. He’s grieving his father, with whom he had a complicated relationship. He’s pedantic about what he eats, and how he dresses, in ways that made me want to unravel him – luckily Isla does this so well! Watching Alistair loosen up, and recalibrate, and redeem himself with his family, is just wonderful.

Isla’s daughter Teddy is delightful. The reader can see how she loves and misses her father - Alistair is a balm, but not a replacement for Cam. Even though Alistair has had some contact with kids, getting to know Teddy is a revelation for him.

I love all the intimate scenes. Teddy was with her ex since she was a teen and she didn’t know what she liked in bed. Then, she didn’t know how to ask. Alistair pays attention and helps her find her way, and it’s steamy and emotional and tender as they learn to be vulnerable with each other.

Five stars from me. One for the Road is a standalone novel but I recommend the first two in the series (Whisky Business and Scotch on the Rocks with Alistair’s brothers). I have my fingers crossed the Macabe sister Heather will get her own story.

Thank you Elliot Fletcher and HarperCollins UK and Harper Fiction for the ARC. Opinions are my own.

[mei_li_terature · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Harper Collins UK and Elliot Fletcher for the early digital copy of One for the Road in exchange for an honest review.

I've been eyeing Elliot Fletcher's books for a while now. Sadly, I haven't gotten around to read the first two in the Macabe Brothers series, but when I saw One for the road was up to request. I didn't hesitate one bit. And after devouring it in less than 24 hours, it's safe to say I will be going back to read the first and second book. I loved seeing the brothers in this book, so I cannot wait to see and read about how they got their respective happy endings.

One for the road follows Alistair, a burn out GP who came back to his hometown on the island of Skye after his father became ill, and left him his practice. And Isla, a single mom (yes I refuse to acknowledge her ex and father of teddy--) doing everything to give her little girl what she needs in life.

After her ex, and father of her child, dumped her for his high school sweetheart, Isla moves to the adjoining house to Alistair's. Alistair being the grumpy man he is, wasn't happy about it, at all, especially when he found out when Isla opened a door that links both their house.

After a few months of complaints to the renting agency, and of mainly avoiding each other, their path seem to cross more and more and they found the perfect solution to their problems. FAKE DATING. Sounds perfect right ? Would bring Alistair's a well needed boost in popularity and will allow Isla to show her ex she's doing better without him. But most importantly, It would mean they can enter the baking contest and Isla could win the prize money to help pay for bills.

It was so cute to see Alistair warm up to both Isla and Teddy, I really loved how he took care pf both of them. It started with small things and grew into more, acts of service are definitely his love language. Him playing lego with teddy, and allowing Isla to use his shower may seem like nothing, but it was really sweet to finally see someone take care of these two like they deserve.

Now, like we can expect, the fake aspect of the dating didn't hold on for long. Both catching feelings pretty fast, I really enjoyed seeing their relationship evolve into more, even if they weren't ready yet to admit it.

I could've done without the drama at the end and with a bit more of communication between the two MCs, but I understand why It had to happen the way it did. Both having stuff to deal with from their past. I LOVED their happy ending and can't wait to go back to the first two books in the series.

[Ashleigh Louise · Rating 4 out of 5]

One for the Road is the third book in The Macabe Brothers series, following burnt-out GP Alistair Macabe, who never planned to return to his tiny hometown on the Isle of Skye. After finding himself living next door to a newly-single mum, Isla, the two start a fake relationship; Alistair needs a popularity boost in order to start taking on patients again, and Isla wants to ruffle her smug ex’s feathers. With the pair taking their roles very seriously, they might just forget they are pretending after all…

I have been looking forward to Alistair’s book for so long, and I have to say, it’s my favourite of the Macabe Brothers series! Returning to the charming small town of Kinleith was so comforting, and I loved being back with the characters from the previous books in the series, as well as meeting new ones.

Isla was a great FMC. I really felt for her at the start of the book, after going through so much with her horrible ex, Cameron. I admired how she always showed up for her daughter, Teddy, no matter how tired or hopeless she felt. She had fantastic character development, and I loved seeing her rediscover her identity and her confidence bloom.

I can sometimes find kids in books a little annoying, but Teddy was such a sweet kid. Her relationship with Alistair was so lovely to read about!

After seeing snippets of Alistair in Whisky Business and Scotch on the Rocks, I was so curious about his character. It was so enlightening being in his head; he had been carrying so much without letting anyone in, so his grumpiness made sense. It was so satisfying to see Isla and Teddy soften him over time. His love language was very much acts of service and taking care of the people he loves, and I loved how thoughtful he was, as well as how much he supported Isla and Teddy.

The tension and chemistry between Alistair and Isla was incredible, and I loved their slow burn romance. The fake dating aspect was really fun, and the intimate scenes were well written. I just loved them together, especially how well they supported each other and brought out the best in each other.

The ending and epilogue had me tearing up, and I already miss Kinleith and the Macabe brothers. I am really hoping we get a Macabe sister book that centres around Heather!

Overall, I had such a great time with this book and can’t wait to read whatever Elliot Fletcher writes next!

Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Collins for providing me with an eARC. This review is being left voluntarily, and all opinions are my own.

[Kat · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨️Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.

This is the third book in the Macabe Brothers series and is definitely my favorite of the series. Alistair is one of the many in the big Macabe family, he has recently returned home after their father's death to the surprising news that said father left him the familys doctor practice in his hometown. This turns his world upside down, and he begins a journey of starting over, facing the true facts of his relationship with his family and try to change his reputation in town. He is a self aware grump who talks first and thinks later which can cause some problems but he is quickly swept off his feet when his new neighbor moves in next door and changes his life forever.

Enter the new neighbor Isla, new single mother going through a very public breakup that everyone in town is talking about and works at the local coffee shop. A not so secret stress baker, she is just dealing with life day by day and giving her daughter the best that she can. Add in the mix that her ex is dodging his duties as father of the year and Isla is very much stressed, and the last thing she needs is a grumpy neighbor who loves to poke her buttons.

I loved this story from start to finish for many different reasons, first being that these two characters acted like adults throughout and made decisions after communicating. Isla is very open and honest about being a single mother, and Alistair is very open about how he is not setting down roots and wanting to move back to the city and they both do checkins with each other. They are both very starting over in their own ways and having moments of growth along that journey, you get to see the highs and lows of each in this story which I did find added alot to the story. Their relationship was a slow burn of sorts and I devoured every inch, I typically do not love slow burns but these two really sealed the deal for me. Isla's daughter, Teddy, also was a huge part of both their lives and I really loved seeing how Teddy and Alistairs relationship grew through the story. The Macabe family is also always around in this story and its great to see the strides that all of the family is making to better their family relationships.

If you are looking for a grumpy sunshine romance where two adults are having to start over, find their own identities along the way and also fall in love, have this on your TBR.

[Eilidh Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have read both the earlier books in the Macabe brothers series and enjoyed both so was really excited to start One for the Road, and Elliot Fletcher did not let me down. This book introduced some great new characters, made me love some older characters and I loved being back in the Kinleith setting.

One for the Road follows Alistair, the third Macabe brother, who is burnt out and back in his home town after his Dad left him his GP Practice which was not his plan, who ends up fake dating Isla a newly-single Mum in order to try and boost his popularity within town.

Isla and Teddy are two new characters to this series and I loved the additions of both of them, I grew to really love reading about them quickly. Isla was really perfect for Alistair and seeing the way they fell for each other was really special, it was one of my favourite romances of the year so far. There were so many scenes that I loved and I can't wait to reread this book when my physical copy arrives after release. Alistair really grew on me a lot over this book compared to my perception of him from Scotch on the Rocks, he might be my new favourite Macabe brother now.

Teddy was a very cute addition to this book, seeing her bond with Alistair was really special and we got to see more of Heather in this book too, through her friendship with Isla and Teddy's friendship with her daughters. I am still hoping that we might get a Heather book in the future because I would love to follow her and see her get her happily ever after.

Being back in Kinleith was exactly what I needed this month with everything I had going on and it was nice to get know some other residents of Kinleith better and meet some new ones too. The main characters of Whisky Business and Scotch on the Rocks also appeared frequently throughout this book which I loved, it was particularly nice to see how Mal and April's life has gone since Whisky Business has finished.

Overall, this was a great conclusion to this series and I am really looking forward to whatever Elliot Fletcher releases next. I would highly recommend starting this series if you haven't already and if you have reading this one when it comes out at the start of June.

Thank you to Netgalley and Harper Collins for a free e-arc in exchange for an honest review.

[Amelia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you so much NetGalley, Avon, and Harper Voyager for the ARC! I was fortunate enough to receive the ARC for Scotch on the Rocks ( book 2 in this series) and I am so excited to continue receiving ARC's of this series.

I have really enjoyed reading this adorable romance series by Elliot Fletcher, set in picturesque Scotland. One for the road features Alistair Macabe, a grumpy doctor that, unlike his other siblings, wants nothing more then to get away from the small town he grew up in. He is disappointed with where his life has taken him and he is constantly facing his past mistakes, not only as a doctor, but also seeing his brother Callum dating Alistair's ex finance. (not a spoiler, this is from book 2). He does not believe he is a good guy and combined with all the pressure from his father, Alistair has no ides what his future will hold.

Enter Isla, a bubbly and colorful single mom who just moved in next door. She is the exact kind of neighbor that Alistair does not want. She is loud, plays music all the time, has a car that is not reliable at all, and to top it all off, she is beautiful. While on the surface Isla is a ray of sunshine, she is also grappling with a very recent divorce, no money, and the small town knowing about the scandal. She just wants to do what is best for her daughter and try to figure out how to be on her own for the first time.

When Isla needs a partner for a baking competition, with a cash prize that she could really use, and Alistair needs to raise the patient ratings of the local clinic, they devise a fake dating plan. Over the span of their fake relationship, they grow closer, they open up to each other, and they grow as individuals. Both of them have been living for others for so long that they have to face their pasts and really decide what they want out of life.

I love how they are an unlikely duo that ends up balancing each other so well. Isla and her daughter fit in so well with the Macabe family and as everything begins to fall into place, they find comfort and support in each other that they have never felt with anyone else.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and everything else I have read from Elliot fletcher. I hope my suspicion of the love interest for Heather Macabe is right....She truly deserves some happiness just like her brothers!

[onlyhereforthehea · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
🌶️🌶️.5/5

One for the Road is the latest installment in the Macabe Brothers series by Elliot Fletcher, and just like the previous two, I absolutely devoured this one.

This story follows Alistair, a burned-out doctor who returns to his hometown after his father’s death and some unfortunate workplace politics. He ends up living on the outskirts of town in a quiet, cozy cottage, hoping for a bit of peace and solitude. That plan doesn’t last long when sunshiny baker Isla, and her adorable daughter, Teddy, move in next door….with a surprise adjoining door between their homes.

What follows is a grumpy/sunshine, single mom romance packed with so much yearning and tension it honestly felt like the pages might catch fire. Alistair starts off as your typical standoffish, arrogant, aloof MMC, but underneath all of that he’s very much a loving, acts-of-service king. Isla, on the other hand, is trying to rebuild after her husband very publicly leaves her for his ex. She’s struggling financially, emotionally, and just needs something in her life to finally go right.

Enter: a baking competition that requires a partner, an ex-husband who needs to be put in his place, and a town that hasn’t exactly warmed up to Alistair. With Isla needing help and Alistair needing the town to like him, the two strike a deal. Cue the fake dating.

I loved both Alistair and Isla individually, but I loved them even more together. They’re complete opposites, yet somehow they give each other exactly what they need. Isla softens Alistair in the best way, helping him find happiness in his job, his home and his life again. In turn, Alistair shows Isla that it’s okay to let someone in, even when it’s scary, and that taking that risk can be worth it.

The slow burn here is very slow, but it absolutely pays off. The tension, the longing, the quiet moments between them, it all builds so well. Add in some solid spice, found family, small-town charm, and a lot of heart, and this was just such a satisfying read.

If you haven’t picked up this series yet, I definitely recommend starting it. It’s a great one, and this latest installment is no exception.

🌟Thank you to Avon and NetGalley for the ARC and the opportunity to read and review this book.

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars rounded up. Thank you to HarperCollins UK, Harper Fiction & NetGalley for sending me an ARC of One For the Road in exchange for an honest review.

This was an absolutely DELICIOUS slow burn romance, and easily my favourite of the series.

Alistair is a curmudgeonly grump. Burnt out from the stress that comes with being an inner city GP, he’s moved back to his tiny home town where he has to face his older brother settled down with his ex-fiancé. Life is dreary, and then Isla unexpectedly bulldozes into his life.

Isla is a newly single mum, after her ex leaves her for one of her friends. Stuck with no options in their small town, she and her daughter Teddy move in to a small cottage adjoining Alistair’s. They are total opposites, winding each other up relentlessly just by existing. Thank god he’s not secretly a total sweetheart and incredibly attractive…oh, wait 😮‍💨

Going into this, I wasn’t expecting to love it so much. We don’t really know much about Alistair from the previous books, outside of his relationship to Juniper & the fact he is a big grump. I wasn’t expecting him to blow me away with how much I adore him!! Agh!!

Yes, he’s a grump but oh my god Alistair is just a broken boy who wants to make his people proud and is content to aggressively yearn. Was he written specifically with me in mind?! This is my catnip. If I thought Callum was a professional yearner…he has NOTHING on Alistair!!

Isla is a chaotic delight, filled with self doubt and just striving to be enough for her daughter. Her fierce independence was so relatable to me, I too will never ask for help to my own detriment and get filled with rage if someone steps in. Soul sisters.

The relationships in this series are so good and surprisingly complex, the family dynamics feel so real and lived in. The setting is perfect, the struggles are authentic…love.

I loved watching Alistair soften up and his relationship with Teddy in particular blossom - it was so precious.

This was a very slow burn, and the payoff was WELL worth the wait. I am obsessed with these two, their chemistry and banter was insanely good.

If you like: fake dating/grumpy x sunshine/single parent/found family/small town/acts of service/pathetic whimpering men then you will gobble this one up!

[Jeanette · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW- ONE FOR THE ROAD
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️

Tropes:
🧡Small Town Romance
🩷Grumpy/Sunshine
🧡Single Mom
🩷Fake Dating
🧡Opposites Attract
__________________
Thanks to Elliot Fletcher, HarperCollinsUK/Harper Fiction and NetGalley for the ARC! I received an advance copy of the book and am leaving an honest review. All opinions are my own.
__________________
This is the first book by Elliot Fletcher I've read and book 3 in the Macabe Brothers series, but it won't be the last. I immediately added both books 1 and 2 to my TBR. I absolutely loved everything about this book and definitely want to read more by her.

Alistair returns home to the Isle of Skye after things go wrong in his career. He has inherited his late father's GP surgery practice but he doesn't think he wants to stay. He is still reeling from his brother dating his ex-fiancee and he is battling his own demons of self doubt, both personally and professionally.

Enter Isla, the sunshiney single mom who turns out to be his next door neighbour. She is starting over after her ex cheated and went back to his childhood sweetheart, leaving both her and their daughter in the lurch. She is trying to get back on her own two feet and now has to deal with the grumpiest neighbour imaginable.

This one was a sloooow burn but so delicious to read. I immensely enjoyed seeing their relationship develop, from strangers to annoying neighbours to reluctant friends and then to lovers. The fake dating scheme did its job well. The MUTUAL YEARNING was top notch. This story was full of heart, humour and self reflection for both characters. Both of them had a lot of learning and growing to do, both together and separately.

I loved the entire cast of characters, the Macabe brothers and their women and their sister made for such a lovely found family atmosphere for Isla and her daughter Teddy. I loved the small town community and wanted to dive into the pages so I could go visit. I'll definitely be picking up the first two books in this series.

If you love small town romance, fake dating and slow burns, this book is definitely for you. I will be recommending to everyone and can't wait for my next reread. 5 stars, no notes.

[Cat · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to Netgalley and HarperCollins for the advanced copy

This is the third in the Macabe brothers series. We're now following Alistair, a burnt-out doctor who's unwillingly returned home after a few tumultuous years. However, his grumpy attitude is getting in the way of his business thriving. Isla, a newly single mum, moves next door and is having her own professional and personal issues. They decide to solve both their problems with a little fake relationship scheme :)

TW: death of family member (off page), professional burnout, gaslighting/manipulative ex

I enjoyed this book a lot. I read it quickly, so clearly I couldn't put it down :)

It's a harder needle to thread after the last one. Alistair has made a lot of mistakes, which have impacted other main characters, so building empathy for him while also showing the growth he has made was well done.
His self-perception of being the black sheep/the bad brother made me really feel for him. I love his bonding with Teddy; that was a real highlight of the book. I also enjoyed him going to Calum and Juniper for advice, that's growth baby :)

Isla was wonderful. I really related to her financial stress; she was just trying to keep everything afloat. Being so young when she became a mother, she didn't really have a sense of identity and felt inadequate in all aspects of her life. I loved all that. When she stood up for herself, and Teddy at the end, it was so cathartic :) Cameron was obviously awful, and his actions seemed realistic. I've seen that scenario play out in real life. I think a character like Annie is difficult to do well as you need to have a multitude of women out there, and some suck :D I think it may have read as a stereotype of a mean girl at points, but I think the moments near the end helped complicate my opinion of her.

There are a few spicy scenes for fans of that. I really liked a spicy scene that started via an argument. I thought it was well done.

If you like grumpy/sunshine and small-town romance. Definitely check this out.

ALSO I'm really hoping we get a Heather book, she deserves a HEA :)

[Holli · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been waiting for the third book in the Macabe Brothers series, and wow did One for the Road not disappoint! This is hands down my favorite in a series that I already really adored.

Isla is a newly divorced mom. Her ex is a real piece of work who convinced her to move to his island hometown so he could take a job he wanted, then promptly started having an affair with his high school girlfriend and dumped Isla. As if that's not gross enough, he spends all his money on his new girlfriend and doesn't pay child support to or spend time with Teddy, their 7-year-old daughter. Isla is in a really tough spot and has been trying to coparent in good faith, but her ex is constantly taking advantage of her niceness. She works part-time in the town bakery, but even that is threatened when the ex-husband's new girlfriend opens up a fancy cupcake emporium down the street.

Meanwhile, Alistair is the very definition of kind but not nice. He is a grumpy, scowly, broody, mouthy doctor ... but he's ALSO the first in line to help when anyone needs it, a great listener, and is physically very gentle. He's the one person Isla isn't afraid to stand up to, so sparks fly as soon as they encounter one another.

It turns out that the only place Isla can afford to live is in one half of a cottage duplex, with the other half occupied (naturally) by Alistair. Teddy immediately becomes obsessed with being Alistair's friend, and the development of their relationship is so sweet and perfect. And all of this is BEFORE Isla and Alistair decide to enter a fake relationship (that of course is not really fake on either side) with the joint goal of rehabilitating Alistair's image with the townspeople and helping Isla win an annual baking competition.

The way these two work through their issues both individually and together is perfect. I love the way the Macabe siblings butt into each other's lives, even when the conversations are uncomfortable (or maybe especially when the conversations are uncomfortable!). The whole book just shines will all sorts of love.

Highly recommend, but read the series in order. You won't regret it!

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC.

[Ananya · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the perfect love story i could ever wish.
So cute, So fun, So emotional and So spicyyyyy at the same time. I am in absolute love. The banter between the two characters was a par the best you can ask for.

I would like to point out each and every thing i loved about this book-
~The personality of MMC: Alistair is the HANDS DOWN THE BEST MMC i have read till now. His grumpy personality was so unique. And can we talk about the dirty mouth of his. OH GOD! I am actually so obsessed this character. I loved that his love language was taking care of people without them knowing. That thing really suited so perfectly to his character. He is the best man i can ever ask for.
~Hottest s*xual tension- I loved the brewing tension between those. And Alistair being a doctor by profession just added a perfect touch to this tension. So HOTTTT. That kissing scene in water, had we sweating. That was my favourite scene.
~Deep Inner monologue- The inner monologue was very thoughtfully and beautifully written. This definitely helped me establishing a deep bond with characters. This had this real effect on me for loving the character from depth of my heart.
~Macabe Family- WOW! This was the most loving family i have ever read. They were so supportive of each other. It was so refreshing to read a such a beautiful family relations.
~ There's this very odd point i would like to point out. At the end during cooking competition the author kept Juniper out of the scene. It was actually so logical thing to do. That the whole focus of reader would be on Alistair and Isla. And to not to provide any context about Alistair's past history with Juniper.

At the end i would like to conclude that this author is seriously the best thoughtful writer i have read. A single book from her and i am an instant fan.

5/5 stars, throughout!

So if you are into small town, single mom, grumpy but dirty talking mmc, baker FMC then this is for you for sure.
Thank you HarperCollins UK and NetGalley for providing me an e-ARC of this amazing book.

[Stephanie McKay · Rating 5 out of 5]

𝐈𝐧𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐬:

🤰🏼 Single Mum
❌ Fake dating
🏝️ Remote island of Skye
🚪 Neighbours
↔️ Opposites attract

𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:

I was beyond excited to be sent an ARC to the third book in the Macabe Brothers series from @netgalley. I adored the first two books, and the third was no different ❤️

Burnt-out GP Alistair Macabe never expected to end up back in his small Isle of Skye hometown—especially living next door to Isla, a newly single mum who has no patience for his moody attitude. When Alistair needs to win over the locals to rebuild his practice, and Isla is keen to get under her ex’s skin, the two strike up a mutually beneficial deal: a fake relationship. But as they lean into their roles a little too convincingly, the lines between pretend and real begin to blur…

Oh Alistair was a real grumpy SOAB 🤣 but we’re all for that, especially when Isla and Teddy melt down the icy exterior. He could be a proper gentleman and became quite protective (and possessive) of Isla. I loved it.

Now Isla, she was a very relatable character. She was a Fleetwood Mac-blasting, baking, Mumma just trying her best. After being completely blindsided and broken-hearted from her ex, her whole world revolved her daughter. She was the best. She might have had reservations and insecurities about opening up her heart again, but Alistair seemed to be EXACTLY what she needed. Maaan, did he dote on and cherish her. The body confidence he gave her as well…. GAHHHH! 😍

I loved the small town setting in Skye. I had grown rather attached to the characters from the previous books, so it was great to be reunited again. And I’m really glad that Alistair had a bit of a redemption story after his downfall with Juniper and his career.

Overall, I absolutely loved this. I’m so gutted it’s over. If you love a small town romance - especially a Scottish one - then get yourself started on Whisky Business and Scotch on the Rocks before this beauty is released in June ❤️☀️

[Gemma · Rating 5 out of 5]

R E V I E W

One for the Road by Elliot Fletcher

Advanced Reader Copy graciously provided by HarperCollinsUK, HarperFiction via Netgalley

☆☆☆☆☆

Having read the first two books in this surprisingly steamy and charming Scottish romance series, I thought I knew what to expect with One for the Road. Though I will admit the thought of Alistair Macabe, the other brother, being the MMC did give me pause after what we learned of him from Juniper's story. But I should have trusted Fletcher to do what she does best; create a swoon-worthy book boyfriend from an unlikely hero. A socially awkward scotsman in Mal? Yes please. A sweet-talking veterinarian in Callum? I'll take two of those, thanks. A grumpy doctor with OCD tendencies? If you insist. Alistair Macabe was an unexpectedly interesting character, a filthy-mouthed lover and potentially the most engaging Macabe brother of the lot!

One for the Road tells the story of Alistair Macabe, the middle Macabe brother forced to return home with the death of his father. Having inherited his dad's doctors surgery, Alistair is stuck in Kinleith until he can sell the practice- a difficult task given no one in the town likes him very much. Enter Isla Lang, a newly single mother just trying to get her life on track after her partner's betrayal, and Alistair's new neighbour. With only thin walls between them and a connecting door bridging the gap, avoiding Isla and her daughter proves impossible for the taciturn and serious doctor, despite his many attempts. But when the opportunity to improve his social standing in the town arises in the form of a fake relationship with his neighbour, Alistair is forced to admit that staying in Kinleith isn't the punishment he thought it once was, not as lines blur, walls come down and feelings that were once 'fake' become to feel very real.

A deliciously addictive read full of Scottish charm, Scottish phrases and entertaining banter. I can't wait for Heather's book!

[Maaren · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the eARC. My thoughts are my own and I am leaving a voluntary review.

**

I can’t believe we already have the third Macabe brother book. Alastair has intrigued me from the start and I’ve struggled to understand him. So to have his book in my hands felt both exciting and daunting. We know so little of him and getting to peel all those cold layers back was a tempting offer.

And what a treasure he turned out to be! A man who has had to grow up in the shadow of not only his brothers but his father who hasn’t made it easy for any of them. And then to have everything happen not only with Jupiter years ago but also what happened in Glasgow that made him move back to Skye is pretty much impossible for a single person to carry. It’s no wonder he’s acted the way he has in previous books. This one truly opened my eyes to him and made me fall in love.

Isla, oh Isla. The struggles this woman has gone through is a lot. And poor Teddy, being so young and in this situation is no cake-walk either. I was so glad to see Teddy and Ali grow closer; it might be an unlikely friendship but I truly think it benefitted both of them.

I also really love the plot of this book! I’m a sucker for fake dating and while there definitely was nothing fake here (even if these two took their time to understand that), it was so much fun. And it felt natural. They have insane chemistry and the way they organically grew closer and closer until there was no air separating them was so fun to witness. Love to see that happens, especially when he falls the hardest.

I want to also highlight the spice! Yes, the book is slow burn so it’ll be a good while before they get it on, it’s definitely worth the wait. The talking and guiding in the couch might be one of my favorites and something I’ll come back to for sure! Excellent, chefs kiss.

What an absolute delight of a book.

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you, NetGalley and the publisher for the free e-ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts.

Wow! Elliot absolutely saved her best book for last. One for the Road is by far my favorite of this series! Within just a few chapters, I was already thinking, “Yeah, okay, I like this.”

Isla is so perfectly likable. Not flawless, but trying everyday to take care of her daughter Teddy, move forward from an unfair, horrible breakup, and restart her life after years putting herself last. Her sincerity, grit, and good nature had me joining Team Isla almost immediately. (That is all I want in a romance book these days - to be wooed into rooting for these characters. When an author can make me care about their characters, we are on the fast track to winning) The fact that she and Alister were neighbors - practically roommates - made for all kinds of fun shenanigans.

Up to this point, we know Alister as the closed off, bitter doctor whose brother and ex-fiancé ended up together in a previous book. Alister started to grow on me when he begin interacting more with Teddy. The way he talked to her, played Legos with her… Those sweet moments showed us little peeks of his deeply buried soft side. Then, we started getting Alister’s reactions to Isla’s ex Cameron… that about made the book for me. “Straight-talking and hilariously petty when it came to defending the people they cared about.” I loved his righteous indignation for how Cameron had been treating Isla all these years. I kept thinking YES 👏 SIR 👏 He and Isla were a wonderful, opposites-attract match. Everything you want from the trope — they balance each other, offer strength for the other’s weaknesses, spur on growth and change. They were great together.

From the selling of the hospital to the bake off to the interpersonal relationships amongst the townspeople, there were many engaging plot points to keep the reader hooked. The ending? A delight. This book surprised me - I would wholeheartedly recommend!

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

There is a reason Elliot Fletcher is one of my go to authors, and it's because their books just consistently deliver. The McCabe Brothers series has become one of my favourites series, and I think this book might be my favourite so far because I just loved the characters, the banter and the emotional growth throughout the story.

In this book we follow Alistair, the previously fairly unknown McCabe brother who left the Isle of Skye to become a GP on the mainland. He's completely lost at the start of the books, feeling conflicting feelings about grieving his father, and generally feeling unsure and unhappy about where his life is headed after unexpectedly inheriting his fathers surgery on the island. Surrounded by his family, all he really wants to do is run back to the mainland.. despite the fact that there's nothing left waiting for him there.

Then there's Isla, recently divorced and stranded on an island that she only moved to because it was her ex-husbands hometown. Apart from her daughter Teddy, she has no family nearby, and she's heartbroken, not only for herself but for Teddy too.. especially as her ex has already moved on and moved in his childhood girlfriend which he seems more focused on than being a present father.

Sparks immediately fly when Alistair and Isla become unhappy neighbours, and I loved watching the pair become friends and slowly let their walls down to allow each other in. Elliot Fletcher always manages to write relationships that feel authentic, and that's exactly what worked so well here. The relationships that build as a friendship, not only between Alistair and Isla, but also between Alistair and Teddy, were really touching. The banter is genuinely funny, but there's also a lot of emotional depth beneath it all. The characters feel flawed, real and relatable, and it's incredibly satisfying watching them work through their own personal struggles while realising how strong they are together.

Honestly, this book completely swept me away. It's funny, emotional, fast-paced and full of heart (and spice!). Perfect it you love friends to lovers, forced proximity, fake dating, grumpy x sunshine, found family and small town romances.