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The Last Resort
Sydneysider Abbey Parker, 42, arrives on an idyllic island resort in the Maldives. Her marriage is over, it's her first holiday alone, and an identity crisis is looming. Her solution? A complimentary bottle of champagne and a swim in the Indian Ocean. Staying in the room next door is brooding Londoner Nick Northby, 41. He's on his annual holiday, avoiding the sun, the glare and people - but he can't avoid having to rescue a tipsy, half-naked woman from drowning.
Their chemistry is immediate and undeniable. And with a mysteriously invested resort worker playing cupid, a holiday fling is inevitable.
Abbey returns home changed, but still struggling to assert herself among her all-female family of powerhouse personalities. Meanwhile, changes are also occurring at her work. Delacqua Hotels has new English owners and her role as Executive Assistant to the CEO becomes extremely awkward - her new boss is none other than her former holiday flame, Nick Northby.
Boss Nick is very different from Holiday Nick - and it isn't just the bespoke suits. He's all business and boundaries. As Abbey finds her voice and opens her heart, Nick sheds his layers reluctantly. She discovers a guarded and damaged man, who manages his heart like a high-risk venture.
Nick is determined not to fall for her. So why does he keep creeping past the line they drew in the white Maldivian sand, marking the end of their affair?
If they're going to have a future together, they'll need to decide whether their self-imposed boundaries are a strength or a weakness - and if falling in love is worth the risk.
The Last Resort is a warm, sophisticated, funny and poignant novel about two people reluctantly falling in love and trying to find hope when the realities of middle age have overtaken the optimism of youth.
Their chemistry is immediate and undeniable. And with a mysteriously invested resort worker playing cupid, a holiday fling is inevitable.
Abbey returns home changed, but still struggling to assert herself among her all-female family of powerhouse personalities. Meanwhile, changes are also occurring at her work. Delacqua Hotels has new English owners and her role as Executive Assistant to the CEO becomes extremely awkward - her new boss is none other than her former holiday flame, Nick Northby.
Boss Nick is very different from Holiday Nick - and it isn't just the bespoke suits. He's all business and boundaries. As Abbey finds her voice and opens her heart, Nick sheds his layers reluctantly. She discovers a guarded and damaged man, who manages his heart like a high-risk venture.
Nick is determined not to fall for her. So why does he keep creeping past the line they drew in the white Maldivian sand, marking the end of their affair?
If they're going to have a future together, they'll need to decide whether their self-imposed boundaries are a strength or a weakness - and if falling in love is worth the risk.
The Last Resort is a warm, sophisticated, funny and poignant novel about two people reluctantly falling in love and trying to find hope when the realities of middle age have overtaken the optimism of youth.
295 pages, Paperback
Published February 3, 2026
About the author
Amanda Hewitt
1 book15 followersAmanda Hewitt is an Australian romance author. Based in the south of Sydney, she is a mum of three little guys and wife to a big guy. An expert on guys, she now writes love stories about guys that don’t exist. She loves Gothic literature and English period drama. When she is not writing, you can find her knee deep in laundry, or curled up on the lounge with a mystery and a glass of red.
The Last Resort is Amanda's debut novel and is being published on Feb 3rd, 2026.
The Last Resort is Amanda's debut novel and is being published on Feb 3rd, 2026.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
February 9, 2026
This is a brilliant debut, a romance that has so many emotions flowing through the words it made me laugh as I turned the pages and got to know Abbey and Nick, come along and get to know them.
Abbey Parker, forty two is single now, mother to a sixteen year old daughter and has come to The Maldives for a much needed break what will these two weeks bring her?
Nick Northby forty one is a widow and is on his annual holiday in The Maldives, he takes this every year with no intention of mixing with anyone, will things be different this year?
A late night swim after drinking a bottle of champagne sees Abbey going for a naked swim but when Nick staying in the room next door thinks she is in trouble he saves her but did she really need saving? The chemistry between them is immediate and then their shared personal valet seems to be pushing them together and soon these two weeks turn into a very sensual and passionate two weeks but both knew from the start that it would be a holiday fling because Nick cannot fall in love.
Abbey is back home and getting herself off to work as an EA to the CEO of a big hotel in Sydney she knew her boss had retired when she went on holidays and is wondering what to expect when she returns, what she returns to is the last thing she expected that somehow Nick would be her new boss and that the personal valet is his brother Oliver and the first meeting did not go well.
Soon Abbey is realising that there are many Nicks, Holiday Nick, Boss Nick and so many more her life is being turned upside down with pressure from her ninety four year old grandmother Iris and bossy sister Kate Abbey finds herself on a roller coaster of a journey as she finally gets Nick to open up and slowly bit by bit she learns more about him and his family but the big question is can she make Nick realise that he can fall in love? Nick has a lot to overcome from his past and maybe Abbey is the one to help.
I loved, loved this one from start to finish, I laughed and cheered them on, the emotions and the other players in this story, Iris, Oliver, Kate Evelyn make this story a must read, getting to know all of the Nicks and Abbeys, how many can there be, that make themselves known in this story was fabulous, the setting, the sensuality bought everything together. This one is a beautiful story and one that I do highly recommend huge congrats Amanda Hewitt on a fabulous debut, I look forward to many more.
My thanks to Echo Publishing for my ARC to read and review.
Abbey Parker, forty two is single now, mother to a sixteen year old daughter and has come to The Maldives for a much needed break what will these two weeks bring her?
Nick Northby forty one is a widow and is on his annual holiday in The Maldives, he takes this every year with no intention of mixing with anyone, will things be different this year?
A late night swim after drinking a bottle of champagne sees Abbey going for a naked swim but when Nick staying in the room next door thinks she is in trouble he saves her but did she really need saving? The chemistry between them is immediate and then their shared personal valet seems to be pushing them together and soon these two weeks turn into a very sensual and passionate two weeks but both knew from the start that it would be a holiday fling because Nick cannot fall in love.
Abbey is back home and getting herself off to work as an EA to the CEO of a big hotel in Sydney she knew her boss had retired when she went on holidays and is wondering what to expect when she returns, what she returns to is the last thing she expected that somehow Nick would be her new boss and that the personal valet is his brother Oliver and the first meeting did not go well.
Soon Abbey is realising that there are many Nicks, Holiday Nick, Boss Nick and so many more her life is being turned upside down with pressure from her ninety four year old grandmother Iris and bossy sister Kate Abbey finds herself on a roller coaster of a journey as she finally gets Nick to open up and slowly bit by bit she learns more about him and his family but the big question is can she make Nick realise that he can fall in love? Nick has a lot to overcome from his past and maybe Abbey is the one to help.
I loved, loved this one from start to finish, I laughed and cheered them on, the emotions and the other players in this story, Iris, Oliver, Kate Evelyn make this story a must read, getting to know all of the Nicks and Abbeys, how many can there be, that make themselves known in this story was fabulous, the setting, the sensuality bought everything together. This one is a beautiful story and one that I do highly recommend huge congrats Amanda Hewitt on a fabulous debut, I look forward to many more.
My thanks to Echo Publishing for my ARC to read and review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
⭐️5 Stars⭐️
Wow what a page turner, The Last Resort Is so addictive and unputdownable. The perfect summer must read!
I cannot believe this is a debut, it’s beautifully written and I fell in love with the main characters.
Aussie Abbey Parker forty-two and recently dumped by her husband of thirteen years is holidaying alone in the Maldives. Brooding Nick Northby forty-one from London is also staying at the same resort and finds himself trying to rescue a half naked and tipsy Abbey from drowning.
Will Abbey have a holiday fling with the Englishman?
I loved their valet Oliver, he was a lovely surprise as you will see when you read the book!
When Abbey returns home from vacation she finds the company she works for has been acquired by new English owners. The new boss is revealed …….and he is determined not to fall for her.
I haven’t revealed too much as you need to go in blind!!
A wonderfully warm, engaging and feel good romance about second chances and changes, absolutely worth a read!
Publication Date 03 February 2026
Publisher Echo Publishing
A huge thanks to Echo Publishing for a copy of the book.
Wow what a page turner, The Last Resort Is so addictive and unputdownable. The perfect summer must read!
I cannot believe this is a debut, it’s beautifully written and I fell in love with the main characters.
Aussie Abbey Parker forty-two and recently dumped by her husband of thirteen years is holidaying alone in the Maldives. Brooding Nick Northby forty-one from London is also staying at the same resort and finds himself trying to rescue a half naked and tipsy Abbey from drowning.
Will Abbey have a holiday fling with the Englishman?
I loved their valet Oliver, he was a lovely surprise as you will see when you read the book!
When Abbey returns home from vacation she finds the company she works for has been acquired by new English owners. The new boss is revealed …….and he is determined not to fall for her.
I haven’t revealed too much as you need to go in blind!!
A wonderfully warm, engaging and feel good romance about second chances and changes, absolutely worth a read!
Publication Date 03 February 2026
Publisher Echo Publishing
A huge thanks to Echo Publishing for a copy of the book.
March 7, 2026
A delightful holiday fling turns into an unexpected boss/employee situation.
This was such a fun read and I loved Abbey and her family.
This is a great debut novel! I am looking forward to reading more stories from Australian author Amanda Hewitt.
This was such a fun read and I loved Abbey and her family.
This is a great debut novel! I am looking forward to reading more stories from Australian author Amanda Hewitt.
March 17, 2026
Ugh!! What an emotional experience. This hooked me from the start. Could’ve done with way more detail during the spicy scenes- there was a lot of summarizing over a couple paragraphs. I hope there’s a book 2 for the brother. Great book. Rich Boss! Vacation fling! Forced proximity! Single mom! Single dad!
March 26, 2026
Excellent romance from a first time Australian author.
This is probably one of the most realistic romances I’ve ever read. It touches on loss and grief and what it means to just be a person who’s trying to figure it out.
I really enjoyed this book.
This is probably one of the most realistic romances I’ve ever read. It touches on loss and grief and what it means to just be a person who’s trying to figure it out.
I really enjoyed this book.
February 14, 2026
What an unexpected delight! I absolutely loved the characters in this story - the way they are written has you in love with both of them from the first moments. From the excitement of a holiday fling to the very deep and real feelings that emerge you are rooting for Nick and Abbey to choose each other. The secondary characters are just as compelling, giving depth to connections and a sense of found family. I really enjoyed this book!
February 17, 2026
I saw this book at my local bookstore recently and my interest was instantly piqued by this gorgeous cover!
This is a great Australian contemporary romance, it’s funny, heartfelt and easy to read.
We start off with Abbey our FMC finding herself in the Maldives after going through a breakup with her husband of many years. A lot of wine and a midnight swim - meet Nick Northby to sweep her off her feet.
A holiday fling- no strings attached…. Simple right?
Buuuut we land back in Sydney and guess who is Abbey’s new boss. Ooop 🙊
I really enjoyed this read, I loved how the character of Abbey was written… she is strong minded and says how she feels.
The supporting characters also were great to read, I adored Iris as a character - what a woman!
This book is only new out, so hopefully it gets a bit more insta love 🧡
This is a great Australian contemporary romance, it’s funny, heartfelt and easy to read.
We start off with Abbey our FMC finding herself in the Maldives after going through a breakup with her husband of many years. A lot of wine and a midnight swim - meet Nick Northby to sweep her off her feet.
A holiday fling- no strings attached…. Simple right?
Buuuut we land back in Sydney and guess who is Abbey’s new boss. Ooop 🙊
I really enjoyed this read, I loved how the character of Abbey was written… she is strong minded and says how she feels.
The supporting characters also were great to read, I adored Iris as a character - what a woman!
This book is only new out, so hopefully it gets a bit more insta love 🧡
March 25, 2026
4.25 stars
Great book.
Holiday romance turned into a forever thing eventually…
Poor Iris, she seemed like a lovely old lady (RIP). I guess she really did die from reading a spicy book which she was happy with if she died that way, due to her heart conditions, such a classic for a horny old lady obsessed over Nick and Ollie.
Abby was so genuine and loyal to Nick the whole time but he was just an ass hole because he was scared to fall in love again.
Overall, the ending was and wasn’t what I was expecting but glad with how it ended.
Great book.
Holiday romance turned into a forever thing eventually…
Poor Iris, she seemed like a lovely old lady (RIP). I guess she really did die from reading a spicy book which she was happy with if she died that way, due to her heart conditions, such a classic for a horny old lady obsessed over Nick and Ollie.
Abby was so genuine and loyal to Nick the whole time but he was just an ass hole because he was scared to fall in love again.
Overall, the ending was and wasn’t what I was expecting but glad with how it ended.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 30, 2026
Loved reading about middle aged individuals falling in love, but Nick needs therapy! His unresolved trauma and commitment phobia was annoying and everyone excusing his poor treatment of Abbey made me so mad!
And Iris is an absolute queen, even if she enables Nick’s poor behavior…
And the ending was subpar compared to the rest of the book.
And Iris is an absolute queen, even if she enables Nick’s poor behavior…
And the ending was subpar compared to the rest of the book.
March 22, 2026
A promising start!! At the beginning, it was giving “the wedding people” by Alison Espach which I loved. Unfortunately the second half dragged with the constant will-they won’t-they cycle that went three rounds too long.
February 15, 2026
The Last Resort is the kind of romance that starts with sunshine, stolen glances and the perfect fling on holiday… then sneaks up on you with boardrooms, tension, and oh no he’s my boss energy.
Abbey, our hardworking single mum, heads off for a much-needed break and meets Nick — charming, grounded, handsome Nick. Their holiday chemistry? Effortless. Warm. The kind that makes you believe in second chances.
And then real life hits.
Because of course Nick isn’t just Nick. He’s the new CEO. And Abbey? She’s his EA.
The shift from holiday sparks to workplace slow-burn tension is chef’s kiss. The power dynamic is handled so well — it’s not about control, it’s about respect, restraint, and the two of them trying (and failing) to ignore what’s clearly still there. The opposites-attract dynamic works beautifully: Nick is polished and controlled; Abbey is capable, warm, and quietly fierce. Watching them navigate professionalism while their feelings simmer is delicious.
But the real heart of this story? The found family element.
A single parent trying to protect their kid. Two families slowly weaving together. And then there’s Grandma Iris — absolute standout icon — with her constant “Don’t be feeble, Abbey.” Every scene she’s in sparkles. She brings humour, wisdom, and that no-nonsense love that makes you want to adopt her immediately.
This isn’t just a workplace romance. It’s a story about second chances, about choosing love when it’s complicated, and about building something steady and safe after life hasn’t been gentle. After all the mains are in their 40s.
Tender, swoony, and emotionally satisfying — this one wraps around you like a warm holiday sunset… and then follows you home.
Abbey, our hardworking single mum, heads off for a much-needed break and meets Nick — charming, grounded, handsome Nick. Their holiday chemistry? Effortless. Warm. The kind that makes you believe in second chances.
And then real life hits.
Because of course Nick isn’t just Nick. He’s the new CEO. And Abbey? She’s his EA.
The shift from holiday sparks to workplace slow-burn tension is chef’s kiss. The power dynamic is handled so well — it’s not about control, it’s about respect, restraint, and the two of them trying (and failing) to ignore what’s clearly still there. The opposites-attract dynamic works beautifully: Nick is polished and controlled; Abbey is capable, warm, and quietly fierce. Watching them navigate professionalism while their feelings simmer is delicious.
But the real heart of this story? The found family element.
A single parent trying to protect their kid. Two families slowly weaving together. And then there’s Grandma Iris — absolute standout icon — with her constant “Don’t be feeble, Abbey.” Every scene she’s in sparkles. She brings humour, wisdom, and that no-nonsense love that makes you want to adopt her immediately.
This isn’t just a workplace romance. It’s a story about second chances, about choosing love when it’s complicated, and about building something steady and safe after life hasn’t been gentle. After all the mains are in their 40s.
Tender, swoony, and emotionally satisfying — this one wraps around you like a warm holiday sunset… and then follows you home.
April 27, 2026
A captivating read that was more 3 dimensional than the predictable holiday romance stories. Although, at times the main love interest was a major hypocrite. I hope to be the old grandmother in the book - still getting my fix of romance novels by audio when my eyesight fails!
May 13, 2026
2.5 star. I think I’m just not in the age bracket for this type of book. Got to the 50% mark and so many unbelievable situations kept occurring to drive the plot forward. But most of the time it left me more confused
April 4, 2026
I really enjoyed the first 100 pages of the book and eagerly kept reading. It then slowed and I can honestly say if it had ended about page 200, my rating would have been much higher but in the last 100 pages, I found the characters inconsistent and the plot unbelievable.
April 2, 2026
It was a good read. Nick Northby had to get over his issues sooner. Iris should’ve kicked his butt, but I think the book would’ve ended much sooner had that happened lol
March 16, 2026
1.5 stars. Just not for me, the writing was poor and overall cringe
March 4, 2026
3.5 stars
Contemporary romance can be a little hit-or-miss for me; sometimes it leans too fluffy, sometimes the conflict feels manufactured, but The Last Resort had just enough emotional depth to keep me invested.
Abbey Parker is 42, newly single, slightly unmoored, and standing at that uncomfortable crossroads where you realise your life doesn’t quite look how you imagined it would. Her solo trip to the Maldives felt like both an escape and a quiet act of rebellion, and honestly? I loved that for her. There’s something so refreshing about reading characters who are closer to my own age. These aren’t twenty-somethings figuring out who they are for the first time. Abbey and Nick have lived. They’ve loved. They’ve lost. And they come to this story carrying real baggage.
Nick, our brooding Londoner, is layered and guarded sometimes to the point of being a little tedious (I won’t lie). There were moments where I wanted to gently shake him and say, “Mate, just use your words.” But as the story unfolds and we understand more of what he’s carrying, he slowly won me over. His emotional walls aren’t there for drama; they’re there because he’s afraid to feel loss again (like most of us). And that felt authentic.
What I appreciated most about this story was the push-and-pull between them. This isn’t instalove. It’s two people cautiously circling each other, trying to work out whether their boundaries are protecting them or holding them back. The workplace dynamic added tension without tipping into over-the-top melodrama. Watching Abbey reclaim space in her own life, both professionally and personally, felt like real growth.
And can we talk about the secondary characters for a moment?
Kate Abbey’s sister is fierce in the best way. Protective, blunt, loyal. I love a sister who says the hard thing because she cares. And the gran? Absolute scene-stealer. I will always be here for a sassy grandmother with opinions. She brought warmth and humour right when the story needed it.
The Holiday setting was dreamy without overpowering the story, and I liked how the contrast between “Holiday Nick” and “Boss Nick” created a tension between fantasy and reality. It asks a very real question: can what happens in paradise survive everyday life?
Overall, I had a genuinely good time with this one. It’s warm, thoughtful, and feels very much like a romance for readers who’ve lived a little. While Nick’s hesitations dragged slightly in the middle for me, the emotional payoff made it worthwhile.
If you enjoy second-chance energy, workplace tension, mature characters navigating grief and identity, and a slow emotional thaw, this one is worth picking up.
Thank you to Echo Publishing Australia for supplying me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Contemporary romance can be a little hit-or-miss for me; sometimes it leans too fluffy, sometimes the conflict feels manufactured, but The Last Resort had just enough emotional depth to keep me invested.
Abbey Parker is 42, newly single, slightly unmoored, and standing at that uncomfortable crossroads where you realise your life doesn’t quite look how you imagined it would. Her solo trip to the Maldives felt like both an escape and a quiet act of rebellion, and honestly? I loved that for her. There’s something so refreshing about reading characters who are closer to my own age. These aren’t twenty-somethings figuring out who they are for the first time. Abbey and Nick have lived. They’ve loved. They’ve lost. And they come to this story carrying real baggage.
Nick, our brooding Londoner, is layered and guarded sometimes to the point of being a little tedious (I won’t lie). There were moments where I wanted to gently shake him and say, “Mate, just use your words.” But as the story unfolds and we understand more of what he’s carrying, he slowly won me over. His emotional walls aren’t there for drama; they’re there because he’s afraid to feel loss again (like most of us). And that felt authentic.
What I appreciated most about this story was the push-and-pull between them. This isn’t instalove. It’s two people cautiously circling each other, trying to work out whether their boundaries are protecting them or holding them back. The workplace dynamic added tension without tipping into over-the-top melodrama. Watching Abbey reclaim space in her own life, both professionally and personally, felt like real growth.
And can we talk about the secondary characters for a moment?
Kate Abbey’s sister is fierce in the best way. Protective, blunt, loyal. I love a sister who says the hard thing because she cares. And the gran? Absolute scene-stealer. I will always be here for a sassy grandmother with opinions. She brought warmth and humour right when the story needed it.
The Holiday setting was dreamy without overpowering the story, and I liked how the contrast between “Holiday Nick” and “Boss Nick” created a tension between fantasy and reality. It asks a very real question: can what happens in paradise survive everyday life?
Overall, I had a genuinely good time with this one. It’s warm, thoughtful, and feels very much like a romance for readers who’ve lived a little. While Nick’s hesitations dragged slightly in the middle for me, the emotional payoff made it worthwhile.
If you enjoy second-chance energy, workplace tension, mature characters navigating grief and identity, and a slow emotional thaw, this one is worth picking up.
Thank you to Echo Publishing Australia for supplying me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
May 7, 2026
This book was provided courtesy of Echo Publishing, with an accompanying interview with Amanda Hewitt featured on the literary podcast Date With A Debut in April 2026. All views and opinions are of my own, the reviewer.
Mild spoilers below.
A story of finding love again in your forties, intimacy, self-love, boundaries, power dynamics and more, Amanda Hewitt has hit the ground running with a romance debut that beautifully subverts many of the tropes of the genre in great ways.
Starting in the Maldives, Abbey, recently separated, has arrived looking for a much-needed break from her chaotic life working at a hotel in Sydney. Nick, a widower, head of a powerful family with the weight on his shoulders, aims to try and get away from his responsibilities.
The two meet and engage in a joyous two-week fling together, but after Abbey returns to Sydney, on her first day back at work, she finds her hotel has a new owner, and across from the table sits none other than Nick.
The story follows as they try to go about saving this hotel, with Nick determined to keep his distance and boundaries… but with both searching for love, is it worth the risk?
First up, this book has some great steamy moments and tension; it’s not a spoiler to say that Abbey and Nick get it on pretty early… and it makes moments afterwards where they have to be professional SO MUCH WORSE!
What sells this story are great leads; Hewitt divides each chapter into different points of view, which results in events playing out in wonderfully unexpected ways. Abbey is a real firecracker, and Nick… stick with him. A lot is going on under the surface with him, and I found myself really connecting with someone who has had to be strong for a lot of people from a young age.
Siblings on both sides in Oliver, Kate and Evelyn are wonderful additions who sell this romance, but a special shoutout must go to Gran. When I get old, I want to be like her!
Love comes in many forms in this story: finding love, self-love, giving permission to love, and it’s where Hewitt succeeds. This story has a bit more bite in it compared to other rom-coms out there; it’s love, warts and all, and there is a lot of beauty in it.
Hewitt is a name to watch in romance; her writing of intimacy is stunning, and I can see many characters spinning off and having their own adventures off this promising debut.
4/5
Booktopia: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/QYOB1P
Date With A Debut Podcast episode: https://dwad.podpixels.com/ep/series-...
Mild spoilers below.
A story of finding love again in your forties, intimacy, self-love, boundaries, power dynamics and more, Amanda Hewitt has hit the ground running with a romance debut that beautifully subverts many of the tropes of the genre in great ways.
Starting in the Maldives, Abbey, recently separated, has arrived looking for a much-needed break from her chaotic life working at a hotel in Sydney. Nick, a widower, head of a powerful family with the weight on his shoulders, aims to try and get away from his responsibilities.
The two meet and engage in a joyous two-week fling together, but after Abbey returns to Sydney, on her first day back at work, she finds her hotel has a new owner, and across from the table sits none other than Nick.
The story follows as they try to go about saving this hotel, with Nick determined to keep his distance and boundaries… but with both searching for love, is it worth the risk?
First up, this book has some great steamy moments and tension; it’s not a spoiler to say that Abbey and Nick get it on pretty early… and it makes moments afterwards where they have to be professional SO MUCH WORSE!
What sells this story are great leads; Hewitt divides each chapter into different points of view, which results in events playing out in wonderfully unexpected ways. Abbey is a real firecracker, and Nick… stick with him. A lot is going on under the surface with him, and I found myself really connecting with someone who has had to be strong for a lot of people from a young age.
Siblings on both sides in Oliver, Kate and Evelyn are wonderful additions who sell this romance, but a special shoutout must go to Gran. When I get old, I want to be like her!
Love comes in many forms in this story: finding love, self-love, giving permission to love, and it’s where Hewitt succeeds. This story has a bit more bite in it compared to other rom-coms out there; it’s love, warts and all, and there is a lot of beauty in it.
Hewitt is a name to watch in romance; her writing of intimacy is stunning, and I can see many characters spinning off and having their own adventures off this promising debut.
4/5
Booktopia: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/QYOB1P
Date With A Debut Podcast episode: https://dwad.podpixels.com/ep/series-...
Review of advance copy received from Author
Most romance novels seem to focus on twenty-somethings finding their way, but The Last Resort was a breath of fresh air because it centres on protagonists in their 40s. Abbey and Nick are navigating the complexities of midlife, from the sting of divorce to the guardedness that comes with life experience. It was incredibly refreshing to read about a "second-chance" evolution where the characters already have established careers and baggage, making their eventual connection feel earned, sophisticated, and deeply poignant.
The story kicks off with a sizzling holiday fling in the Maldives, but the real magic happens when the setting shifts to Sydney. As a non-Australian reader, I absolutely loved being transported "down under." The author does a fantastic job of capturing the local energy – from the "Sydneysider" lifestyle to the high-stakes corporate world of Delacqua Hotels. It felt like a mini-holiday in itself (very welcome in the depths of winter in the UK!) to hang out in a different hemisphere while watching the awkward, high-tension chemistry between "Holiday Nick" and "Boss Nick" unfold in the office.
Ultimately, this debut is the perfect blend of top-notch banter, "spicy" workplace tension, and heartfelt growth. Abbey’s journey to finding her voice again at 42 is both empowering and relatable, and the supporting cast kept me smiling throughout (let's just say I would be very happy indeed if there could be more time with these characters in the future, particularly Ollie!)
So whether you’re looking for a bingeable beach read, or a story that proves love is just as exciting the second time around, I can’t recommend this one enough. Five stars!
The story kicks off with a sizzling holiday fling in the Maldives, but the real magic happens when the setting shifts to Sydney. As a non-Australian reader, I absolutely loved being transported "down under." The author does a fantastic job of capturing the local energy – from the "Sydneysider" lifestyle to the high-stakes corporate world of Delacqua Hotels. It felt like a mini-holiday in itself (very welcome in the depths of winter in the UK!) to hang out in a different hemisphere while watching the awkward, high-tension chemistry between "Holiday Nick" and "Boss Nick" unfold in the office.
Ultimately, this debut is the perfect blend of top-notch banter, "spicy" workplace tension, and heartfelt growth. Abbey’s journey to finding her voice again at 42 is both empowering and relatable, and the supporting cast kept me smiling throughout (let's just say I would be very happy indeed if there could be more time with these characters in the future, particularly Ollie!)
So whether you’re looking for a bingeable beach read, or a story that proves love is just as exciting the second time around, I can’t recommend this one enough. Five stars!
February 18, 2026
I’m so grateful to Echo Publishing for sending me a complimentary copy of The Last Resort by Amanda Hewitt in exchange for an honest review, because wow… I loved this one.
From the very first page, it had its hooks in me and refused to let go. This is the first CEO romance I’ve genuinely adored in a long time, and I think a big part of that is the characters being in their 40s. There’s a refreshing maturity to them, but somehow they still stumble through love like twenty-somethings experiencing their first confusing, heart-racing relationship. It felt real and messy and human in the best way.
The MMC? Listen. I wanted to grab him by the shoulders and shake him more than once. He drove me absolutely up the wall. And honestly… I’m still not totally convinced he redeemed himself by the end. But you’ll have to read it to understand exactly why I was yelling at the pages.
The FMC completely stole my heart. She’s confident, self-aware, and knows exactly who she is. Watching someone so strong still get a little soft and vulnerable in love felt incredibly relatable. Maybe a bit naïve at times, maybe too easily swayed, but achingly human.
And Grandma Iris? An icon. A legend. The blueprint. I want to be her when I grow up.
The found-family element added so much warmth too. You can practically feel the love radiating off the page, wrapping around you like a blanket. By the end, I absolutely teared up. It hit me right in the feelings.
Overall, this is a solid 5-star read for me. Emotional, frustrating (in a good way), heartfelt, and impossible to put down. Highly recommend picking it up.
From the very first page, it had its hooks in me and refused to let go. This is the first CEO romance I’ve genuinely adored in a long time, and I think a big part of that is the characters being in their 40s. There’s a refreshing maturity to them, but somehow they still stumble through love like twenty-somethings experiencing their first confusing, heart-racing relationship. It felt real and messy and human in the best way.
The MMC? Listen. I wanted to grab him by the shoulders and shake him more than once. He drove me absolutely up the wall. And honestly… I’m still not totally convinced he redeemed himself by the end. But you’ll have to read it to understand exactly why I was yelling at the pages.
The FMC completely stole my heart. She’s confident, self-aware, and knows exactly who she is. Watching someone so strong still get a little soft and vulnerable in love felt incredibly relatable. Maybe a bit naïve at times, maybe too easily swayed, but achingly human.
And Grandma Iris? An icon. A legend. The blueprint. I want to be her when I grow up.
The found-family element added so much warmth too. You can practically feel the love radiating off the page, wrapping around you like a blanket. By the end, I absolutely teared up. It hit me right in the feelings.
Overall, this is a solid 5-star read for me. Emotional, frustrating (in a good way), heartfelt, and impossible to put down. Highly recommend picking it up.
February 18, 2026
I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I think I have officially been converted into a romance reader and it is entirely because of The Last Resort by Amanda Hewitt.
From the very first chapter, this book had me completely hooked. The chemistry was immediate, electric, and impossible to ignore. What I loved most was how naturally the tension built. Every look, every brush of hands, every charged conversation felt deliberate and perfectly paced, delivering that slow burn that makes you ache in the best possible way.
What truly caught me off guard was the emotional depth. Beneath the swoon-worthy moments and sharp banter, there was real vulnerability. Both characters felt layered and flawed, which made their connection all the more satisfying. I was not just rooting for them. I was fully invested in their happiness.
This book had me laughing out loud, wiping away tears, and at one point genuinely considering flinging it across the room because of the MMC’s behaviour. The man tested my patience in ways that felt painfully realistic, but that frustration only made the payoff sweeter.
And the setting was pure escapism. It had a lush, cinematic quality that made everything feel immersive and vivid in the early chapters and then when the story continued "back in the real world" the setting felt nice and familiar, adding to the narrative an extra layer of depth and atmosphere. Romantic, messy, angsty, and completely addictive.
If this is what romance has been quietly offering all along, I have clearly been missing out.
Consider me officially converted!
From the very first chapter, this book had me completely hooked. The chemistry was immediate, electric, and impossible to ignore. What I loved most was how naturally the tension built. Every look, every brush of hands, every charged conversation felt deliberate and perfectly paced, delivering that slow burn that makes you ache in the best possible way.
What truly caught me off guard was the emotional depth. Beneath the swoon-worthy moments and sharp banter, there was real vulnerability. Both characters felt layered and flawed, which made their connection all the more satisfying. I was not just rooting for them. I was fully invested in their happiness.
This book had me laughing out loud, wiping away tears, and at one point genuinely considering flinging it across the room because of the MMC’s behaviour. The man tested my patience in ways that felt painfully realistic, but that frustration only made the payoff sweeter.
And the setting was pure escapism. It had a lush, cinematic quality that made everything feel immersive and vivid in the early chapters and then when the story continued "back in the real world" the setting felt nice and familiar, adding to the narrative an extra layer of depth and atmosphere. Romantic, messy, angsty, and completely addictive.
If this is what romance has been quietly offering all along, I have clearly been missing out.
Consider me officially converted!
March 9, 2026
The Last Resort by Amanda Hewitt
I requested this one from NetGalley based on the cover art (which is amazing, big thumbs up). I knew going in that it was a holiday romance, which isn't usually something I'm into, but I wanted to give it a chance. It turned out this book wasn't for me.
Abbey arrives at an idyllic island resort in the Maldives, and she's alone on a holiday booked before her marriage fell apart. Staying in the room next door is Nick, tall, dark and brooding. A holiday fling ensues.
Abbey returns home to find that her boss has embezzled company funds and has been arrested. The company has been sold, and her new boss is her holiday flame. And boss Nick is very different from Holiday Nick.
Thank you to W.F. Howes, NetGalley and Amanda Hewitt for an advance listening copy of this book.
This isn't a thumbs-up for me, but I've had a peep at other reviews, and I'm definitely in the minority. It's described as a 'funny, feel-good romance about second chances and self-discovery. ' If that sounds like something you are into, it might be for you!
I listened to the audiobook, which was performed by Tom Alexander & Elizabeth Napier.
Bodycount = no bodies, only broken hearts.
The Last Resort by Amanda Hewitt was released on Feb 26.
#designnerd #booksdeevaareads #2025bookshelf #TheLastResort @wfhowes @wavesoundaustralia @NetGalley #NetGalley
I requested this one from NetGalley based on the cover art (which is amazing, big thumbs up). I knew going in that it was a holiday romance, which isn't usually something I'm into, but I wanted to give it a chance. It turned out this book wasn't for me.
Abbey arrives at an idyllic island resort in the Maldives, and she's alone on a holiday booked before her marriage fell apart. Staying in the room next door is Nick, tall, dark and brooding. A holiday fling ensues.
Abbey returns home to find that her boss has embezzled company funds and has been arrested. The company has been sold, and her new boss is her holiday flame. And boss Nick is very different from Holiday Nick.
Thank you to W.F. Howes, NetGalley and Amanda Hewitt for an advance listening copy of this book.
This isn't a thumbs-up for me, but I've had a peep at other reviews, and I'm definitely in the minority. It's described as a 'funny, feel-good romance about second chances and self-discovery. ' If that sounds like something you are into, it might be for you!
I listened to the audiobook, which was performed by Tom Alexander & Elizabeth Napier.
Bodycount = no bodies, only broken hearts.
The Last Resort by Amanda Hewitt was released on Feb 26.
#designnerd #booksdeevaareads #2025bookshelf #TheLastResort @wfhowes @wavesoundaustralia @NetGalley #NetGalley
May 1, 2026
The moment Abbey Parker stepped out onto the beach, I KNEW I would be loving this book.
It was just a perfect summer romance. It has EVERYTHING I love: forbidden (workplace & long distance-ish) romance, vacation romance, nosy sibling instigators, witty grans. It was amazing.
Abbey is such an icon. She literally refused to take shit from anyone (especially her ex-husband, which made all of the scenes with him an absolute delight to read lol), and fuck it, I love a woman in business. She's hot. She's witty. She's smart. Total fucking package.
Her and Nick were perfect together. I LOVED their relationship from the start, but all of the drama that was added when 'Holiday-Nick' was replaced with 'CEO-Nick' was immaculate. I was giggling in scenes as small as her bringing him TEA because that's how good this book was.
There were so many times in this book where I almost got *too* into it. I mean, Abbey's interrogation with Nick's lawyer at the beginning had me SCREAMING. The car accident? Hyperventilating. The ending? Sobbing my flipping eyes out. RIP Abbey's nan. You were an icon.
Amanda Hewitt's writing was so addicting in this novel, and I cannot wait to read what she puts out next. Also, I'm booking a plane ticket to the Maldives. Or Australia. Both? IDK.
Loved it. Need an Oliver book, stat.
It was just a perfect summer romance. It has EVERYTHING I love: forbidden (workplace & long distance-ish) romance, vacation romance, nosy sibling instigators, witty grans. It was amazing.
Abbey is such an icon. She literally refused to take shit from anyone (especially her ex-husband, which made all of the scenes with him an absolute delight to read lol), and fuck it, I love a woman in business. She's hot. She's witty. She's smart. Total fucking package.
Her and Nick were perfect together. I LOVED their relationship from the start, but all of the drama that was added when 'Holiday-Nick' was replaced with 'CEO-Nick' was immaculate. I was giggling in scenes as small as her bringing him TEA because that's how good this book was.
There were so many times in this book where I almost got *too* into it. I mean, Abbey's interrogation with Nick's lawyer at the beginning had me SCREAMING. The car accident? Hyperventilating. The ending? Sobbing my flipping eyes out. RIP Abbey's nan. You were an icon.
Amanda Hewitt's writing was so addicting in this novel, and I cannot wait to read what she puts out next. Also, I'm booking a plane ticket to the Maldives. Or Australia. Both? IDK.
Loved it. Need an Oliver book, stat.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 4, 2026
The Last Resort – Amanda Hewitt ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
What a debut!! A big thank you to Echo Publishing for sending me this beautiful book to read and review — so appreciated.
Now to the story…
We meet Abby Parker, who escapes to the Maldives alone after her marriage falls apart. Nursing a broken heart she decides to have a little holiday fun with the hot Londoner next door, Nick Northby. It’s meant to be no strings attached — just a fleeting romance in paradise.
But when Abby returns home to Sydney, she gets the surprise of her life… her new boss is none other than Nick.
Nick doesn’t do relationships. Abby doesn’t want her heart broken again. Two people clearly destined for each other — but neither willing to take the risk.
This book is beautifully written and filled with heart. It’s about second chances, vulnerability, and falling in love headfirst even when it’s terrifying.
And honestly? The show was nearly stolen by Abby’s grandmother, Iris. What an absolute hoot. She had me giggling throughout the entire book.
An amazing, memorable debut. Well done, Amanda — I cannot wait to see what you do next.
Five stars from me. 💫
What a debut!! A big thank you to Echo Publishing for sending me this beautiful book to read and review — so appreciated.
Now to the story…
We meet Abby Parker, who escapes to the Maldives alone after her marriage falls apart. Nursing a broken heart she decides to have a little holiday fun with the hot Londoner next door, Nick Northby. It’s meant to be no strings attached — just a fleeting romance in paradise.
But when Abby returns home to Sydney, she gets the surprise of her life… her new boss is none other than Nick.
Nick doesn’t do relationships. Abby doesn’t want her heart broken again. Two people clearly destined for each other — but neither willing to take the risk.
This book is beautifully written and filled with heart. It’s about second chances, vulnerability, and falling in love headfirst even when it’s terrifying.
And honestly? The show was nearly stolen by Abby’s grandmother, Iris. What an absolute hoot. She had me giggling throughout the entire book.
An amazing, memorable debut. Well done, Amanda — I cannot wait to see what you do next.
Five stars from me. 💫
February 16, 2026
Oh I am so sad this book is finished, but so grateful I got to read it! I absolutely loved this story about Abbey and Nick. It starts with them both being single on holiday in the Maldives, after a few sneaky moves from the valet a holiday romance is born…..but does it end there? Well you have to read and find out!
The opening chapter is Abbey post divorce turning up at the Maldives, getting drunk and skinny dipping….need I say more 😂
The book took my heart on an emotional roller coaster and had twists and plots I didn’t see coming. You are cheering Abbey on as she is on her path of growing into herself, starting over again in her 40’s and falling in love with Nick, while also being infuriated at him, while his story opens up and reveals trauma he has been through in his life that’s made him who he is today.
There is sexual tension and quick wit. The star of the book though is Grandma Iris who is cheeky as sin and so adorable that you fall instantly in love with her.
Highly recommend this book, get behind this incredible Aussie author in her debut novel
The opening chapter is Abbey post divorce turning up at the Maldives, getting drunk and skinny dipping….need I say more 😂
The book took my heart on an emotional roller coaster and had twists and plots I didn’t see coming. You are cheering Abbey on as she is on her path of growing into herself, starting over again in her 40’s and falling in love with Nick, while also being infuriated at him, while his story opens up and reveals trauma he has been through in his life that’s made him who he is today.
There is sexual tension and quick wit. The star of the book though is Grandma Iris who is cheeky as sin and so adorable that you fall instantly in love with her.
Highly recommend this book, get behind this incredible Aussie author in her debut novel
February 17, 2026
The Last Resort by Amanda Hewitt is about Abbey Parker who is on her 40's and on her first holiday abroad after her marriage ended. On her first night there she runs into Nick Northby who is on his annual holiday and feels he has to rescue Abbey. They are drawn to each other and spend most of their holiday together, planning to part after. This becomes a bit harder as Nick is Abbey's new boss at Delacqua Hotels. He's a lot more serious at work and Abbey has other priorities such as her daughter and family. Nick like providing boundaries and then has a way of stepping over them. Can they overcome their challenges and have a chance at happiness together? I really enjoyed this book and was wanting Abbey and Nick to sort through their issues from the beginning. Then there were all the other players on both sides who completed the picture and made me fall for this book all the more. I also liked that the characters were a bit older and that life did not always go their way. This made it more realistic and relatable for all. Thoroughly recommend - what a great debut.
April 4, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ This was an enjoyable read. The story begins with both main characters on vacation in an elite hotel on an island. Both Abbey Parker and Nick Northby were lovable people (in their 40’s) who had a fling on their steamy vacation in the Maldives. (Abbey’ grandmother would be extremely proud.) Jump forward to coming home and back to work in Sydney. Abbey’s retiring boss has been embezzling funds from the company. Turns out that the company is owned by Nick’s company. Nick and his brother arrive in Sydney to get things in order, unbeknownst to Abby.
I just loved the interactions with Nick, Abbey and their families. I especially loved the smut reading grandma with her spunky attitude. This book made me feel good and light, even though each character has had a difficult go of life. Grandma added lightness with her wit and recommendations of super spicy reads. I enjoyed how she stealthily meddled in all the characters' lives, especially their love lives. This novel was on par with any of Abby Jimenez’s books. This was just what I needed to read.
I just loved the interactions with Nick, Abbey and their families. I especially loved the smut reading grandma with her spunky attitude. This book made me feel good and light, even though each character has had a difficult go of life. Grandma added lightness with her wit and recommendations of super spicy reads. I enjoyed how she stealthily meddled in all the characters' lives, especially their love lives. This novel was on par with any of Abby Jimenez’s books. This was just what I needed to read.
February 16, 2026
The Last Resort is the kind of romance that quietly wraps itself around your heart before you even realise it has you. Set against an intimate, emotionally charged backdrop, this story leans into vulnerability, second chances, and the kind of chemistry that simmers rather than explodes.
What truly stood out to me was the emotional depth. The characters are not just falling in love, they are confronting their pasts, their fears, and the parts of themselves they would rather keep hidden. There is a tenderness in the way their walls come down. The longing feels real, the tension feels earned, and the quieter moments carry just as much weight as the dramatic ones.
The romance unfolds with a steady rhythm that allows you to sit with the feelings. It is angsty in the best way, with heartfelt conversations and raw inner conflicts that make you root for them harder with every chapter.
If you love emotionally driven romance with layered characters and palpable tension, this one deserves a spot on your shelf.
What truly stood out to me was the emotional depth. The characters are not just falling in love, they are confronting their pasts, their fears, and the parts of themselves they would rather keep hidden. There is a tenderness in the way their walls come down. The longing feels real, the tension feels earned, and the quieter moments carry just as much weight as the dramatic ones.
The romance unfolds with a steady rhythm that allows you to sit with the feelings. It is angsty in the best way, with heartfelt conversations and raw inner conflicts that make you root for them harder with every chapter.
If you love emotionally driven romance with layered characters and palpable tension, this one deserves a spot on your shelf.
February 19, 2026
“The Last Resort” by Amanda Hewitt is like a cup of tea and a cheeky biscuit for the soul — comforting, a little sweet and entirely satisfying. It’s a romance between two grown-ups (hallelujah!) in their forties who actually have some life experience, emotional baggage and fantastic banter. The story feels honest, charming and laugh-out-loud funny in all the right places.
The characters are wonderfully layered with some depth beyond the typical stereotypes. Tom Alexander and Elizabeth Napier nail the narration, bringing each alternating point of view to life with warmth and wit. All in all, it’s a quick, delightful read that proves love and chance for a fulfilled life doesn’t come with an expiry date.
Thank you to W.F. Howes Ltd, NetGalley and Amanda Hewitt for an advance listening copy of this book.
The characters are wonderfully layered with some depth beyond the typical stereotypes. Tom Alexander and Elizabeth Napier nail the narration, bringing each alternating point of view to life with warmth and wit. All in all, it’s a quick, delightful read that proves love and chance for a fulfilled life doesn’t come with an expiry date.
Thank you to W.F. Howes Ltd, NetGalley and Amanda Hewitt for an advance listening copy of this book.
March 10, 2026
A romance with heart, The Last Resort is the story of 40-something Australian single mum Abbey who is determined not to ever fall in love again. On her first well earned solo holiday she meets Nick, an Eng ishman sh fellow 40-something single also determined never to fall in love again...also known as the perfect whirlwind to distract her from her failed marriage while she vacations. When Nick unexpectedly shows up back home in Sydney in the role of Abbey's new boss, her whole world starts to implode. Holiday Nick and work Nick are most definitely not the same man, and he has a complex history he's not willing to face up to. Abbey needs to figure out what all of this means for her, and fast.
A perfect read for anyone looking for a book with a strong FMC, reluctant second chance romance and a fantastic cast of characters!
A perfect read for anyone looking for a book with a strong FMC, reluctant second chance romance and a fantastic cast of characters!
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