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The Distance Between Us
From Sunday Times bestselling author Phillipa Ashley comes a sparkling romantic short story set between the wild shores of Cornwall and the rugged Scottish Highlands. When it comes to love, a thousand miles is just the beginning.
Jenna loves her job coordinating epic challenges between the two ends of Britain—from Cornwall’s dramatic coast to the northern tip of Scotland. But lately the highlight of her working days are her video calls with Cameron, the charming Scotsman who helps these determined adventurers complete their journey. Their friendship blossoms, but with nearly a thousand miles between them, and Jenna engaged, they can never be more.
When an epic bicycle ride in aid of a cause close to Jenna’s heart faces disaster, Cameron makes an impulsive decision that shocks everyone. As Jenna watches him push himself beyond all limits, she begins questioning her own carefully planned future. But with Jenna’s relationship on shaky ground and so much distance between her and Cameron, will they ever have a chance?
As summer storms roll in from the Atlantic and Cameron pedals ever closer to Cornwall, Jenna faces an impossible choice. She has always played it safe, but sometimes the greatest journey is not the one on the road—it’s the leap your heart must take.
For fans of Katie Fforde and Jill Mansell comes a gorgeously uplifting story about finding the courage to follow your heart, no matter how far it leads you.
Jenna loves her job coordinating epic challenges between the two ends of Britain—from Cornwall’s dramatic coast to the northern tip of Scotland. But lately the highlight of her working days are her video calls with Cameron, the charming Scotsman who helps these determined adventurers complete their journey. Their friendship blossoms, but with nearly a thousand miles between them, and Jenna engaged, they can never be more.
When an epic bicycle ride in aid of a cause close to Jenna’s heart faces disaster, Cameron makes an impulsive decision that shocks everyone. As Jenna watches him push himself beyond all limits, she begins questioning her own carefully planned future. But with Jenna’s relationship on shaky ground and so much distance between her and Cameron, will they ever have a chance?
As summer storms roll in from the Atlantic and Cameron pedals ever closer to Cornwall, Jenna faces an impossible choice. She has always played it safe, but sometimes the greatest journey is not the one on the road—it’s the leap your heart must take.
For fans of Katie Fforde and Jill Mansell comes a gorgeously uplifting story about finding the courage to follow your heart, no matter how far it leads you.
104 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 1, 2026
642 people are currently reading
288 people want to read
About the author
Phillipa Ashley
44 books1,201 followersPhillipa Ashley is a multiple Sunday Times and Amazon Top 5 and Audible #1 best selling author of uplifting romantic novels.
She has written over 30 books under three pen names since her debut novel, Decent Exposure, was made into a Lifetime TV movie called 12 Men of Christmas.
Her latest release is the friends-to-lovers romance, The Distance Between Us - an Amazon Original Story available now on Prime. Her next full length romantic novel is A Wedding Under the Cornish Sky in June 2026.
She also wrote the Oxford Blue series as Pippa Croft and The Love Solution as Ashley Croft.
She has written over 30 books under three pen names since her debut novel, Decent Exposure, was made into a Lifetime TV movie called 12 Men of Christmas.
Her latest release is the friends-to-lovers romance, The Distance Between Us - an Amazon Original Story available now on Prime. Her next full length romantic novel is A Wedding Under the Cornish Sky in June 2026.
She also wrote the Oxford Blue series as Pippa Croft and The Love Solution as Ashley Croft.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
March 10, 2026
3.75 ⭐️
this was such a sweet and cozy read and i enjoyed it a lot! something about cam and jenna’s interactions felt like a warm hug. nate was such an asshole, i was cheering when she finally stood up for herself and the kind of love she wants.
the narrators did an amazing job as well! each character had their own sound to them, and i loved it.
i do wish the discussions about their individual grief was explored further, but otherwise it’s a good book if you need a quick and cute read!!
this was such a sweet and cozy read and i enjoyed it a lot! something about cam and jenna’s interactions felt like a warm hug. nate was such an asshole, i was cheering when she finally stood up for herself and the kind of love she wants.
the narrators did an amazing job as well! each character had their own sound to them, and i loved it.
i do wish the discussions about their individual grief was explored further, but otherwise it’s a good book if you need a quick and cute read!!
March 12, 2026
Lovely short story by a favourite author of mine
Read
March 3, 2026Adorable and cozy. Love
Review of advance copy
The Distance Between Us by Phillipa Ashley is a lovely short story/novella following the friendship between Jenna and Cameron. They are both involved with co-ordinating and promoting the epic fundraising events undertaken by people going from Lands End to John O'Groats. Jenna is at the Cornwall end of the challenge while Cameron is at the Scottish end. Although they have never met in person, they have regular video meetings and are gradually getting to know each other.
They have both suffered tragic loss in their lives and one particular challenge really strikes a chord with Jenna. When things don't work out as they should for this particular challenge, Cameron decides he will undertake it instead and starts pedalling his way towards Jenna. It was interesting reading about the difficulties he encountered en route. I certainly wouldn't want to try that bike ride myself!
This was a gently told story with some really lovely characters, not just Jenna and Cameron but others like Cameron's young nephew Lachlan and his friend Iona. There's also a rather unpleasant character and I wasn't sorry to see the back of him!
The Distance Between Us is a light-hearted and uplifting read about taking chances on love and it's not without emotional depth. If you haven't read anything by Phillipa Ashley before, this would be a good introduction to her work. If you are already a fan, you will enjoy this romantic short story.
They have both suffered tragic loss in their lives and one particular challenge really strikes a chord with Jenna. When things don't work out as they should for this particular challenge, Cameron decides he will undertake it instead and starts pedalling his way towards Jenna. It was interesting reading about the difficulties he encountered en route. I certainly wouldn't want to try that bike ride myself!
This was a gently told story with some really lovely characters, not just Jenna and Cameron but others like Cameron's young nephew Lachlan and his friend Iona. There's also a rather unpleasant character and I wasn't sorry to see the back of him!
The Distance Between Us is a light-hearted and uplifting read about taking chances on love and it's not without emotional depth. If you haven't read anything by Phillipa Ashley before, this would be a good introduction to her work. If you are already a fan, you will enjoy this romantic short story.
March 8, 2026
Charity & friendship
This book had the most amazing story about 2 colleagues working for the same charity one in lands end the other in John o groats. They both leased about diffrant people doing the journey to or from lands end or John OGroats to the opposite. People did it for charity on bikes , tricycles , runs or walks. They all did it to raise funds for 1 charity or other. They had never met but had video meetings at least every week sometimes more than that. They both fancied the other but Jenna was engaged to Nathan and he was pushing for them to get married in a couple of months instead of next year like they planned. Cam got butterflies in his tummy everything he spoke to Jenna and vis versa. He had just got his courage up to ask her to dinner when he found out she'd just got engaged. The rest is for you to read and I hope you enjoy it as much as me. I couldn't put it down It kept drawing me in. I really think it's a must read.
This book had the most amazing story about 2 colleagues working for the same charity one in lands end the other in John o groats. They both leased about diffrant people doing the journey to or from lands end or John OGroats to the opposite. People did it for charity on bikes , tricycles , runs or walks. They all did it to raise funds for 1 charity or other. They had never met but had video meetings at least every week sometimes more than that. They both fancied the other but Jenna was engaged to Nathan and he was pushing for them to get married in a couple of months instead of next year like they planned. Cam got butterflies in his tummy everything he spoke to Jenna and vis versa. He had just got his courage up to ask her to dinner when he found out she'd just got engaged. The rest is for you to read and I hope you enjoy it as much as me. I couldn't put it down It kept drawing me in. I really think it's a must read.
March 19, 2026
Picked this book up because the cover was so cute! It was a short story and I enjoyed it, however not a top for short story’s I have read.
March 7, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
Another great book from Phillipa Ashley, loved how unique and heartfelt the story was.
Another great book from Phillipa Ashley, loved how unique and heartfelt the story was.
March 8, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
Ooohhh cute!!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
Ooohhh cute!!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
March 4, 2026
A really sweet short story about two people who fall in love over Teams. A modern romance! I enjoyed this a lot. I feel like you got to know the characters really quickly, which made it authentic.
I have really got into having a short story going on my Kindle app for moments when I get stuck without my book to read!
I have really got into having a short story going on my Kindle app for moments when I get stuck without my book to read!
March 5, 2026
I really enjoyed this short story. It's the budding romance of Jenna and Cameron. I loved it!
5 stars
Many thanks to Net Galley and Brilliance Publishing for an audio ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
5 stars
Many thanks to Net Galley and Brilliance Publishing for an audio ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 5, 2026
Uma bela história de amor que envolve sacrifícios, uma relação abusiva, amor à distância, e muita força de vontade. Uma excelente leitura, embora com final bem previsível.
March 2, 2026
I’m just going to say it: Jenna’s fiancé, Nate, was a controlling arse and needed a serious timeout. Since when does an act of service become a life sentence binding you to someone for all eternity?! I was Team Cam through and through from the very beginning.
For a short story, this gave me several feels; from "awww" to "he's so adorable" to "how cute is she?" It was a clean, well-paced slow burn that was very comfy and laid-back. While not a lot of time was spent on the scenery, I could still visualize the landscapes, and seascapes, of Scotland and Cornwall the author shared. She even threw in a few shoutouts to the animals in the Arctic.
There is an interesting twist where Cam puts himself out there in a way that is both brave and honorable. It's really how he got his hooks in me. The "Kilt Challenge" served as the center of mass for the entire story and added a layer of depth I was not expecting. It made the connection between him and Jenna feel so much more earned and poignant.
The Aftermath 🌷:
When I got to the end, I was satiated; there was nothing more these characters could give me. Phillipa Ashley weaved in various tropes without making it feel rushed; coupled with the originality, it really made the story feel real and it resonated with me. This was my first read by this author, but it won’t be my last.
Oh, and let's not forget the evolution of Jenna, which is what I waited for. And of course, I rode Cam's wave all the way to the end! Okay, I'm done with my "but wait, there's more." 😂
For a short story, this gave me several feels; from "awww" to "he's so adorable" to "how cute is she?" It was a clean, well-paced slow burn that was very comfy and laid-back. While not a lot of time was spent on the scenery, I could still visualize the landscapes, and seascapes, of Scotland and Cornwall the author shared. She even threw in a few shoutouts to the animals in the Arctic.
There is an interesting twist where Cam puts himself out there in a way that is both brave and honorable. It's really how he got his hooks in me. The "Kilt Challenge" served as the center of mass for the entire story and added a layer of depth I was not expecting. It made the connection between him and Jenna feel so much more earned and poignant.
The Aftermath 🌷:
When I got to the end, I was satiated; there was nothing more these characters could give me. Phillipa Ashley weaved in various tropes without making it feel rushed; coupled with the originality, it really made the story feel real and it resonated with me. This was my first read by this author, but it won’t be my last.
Oh, and let's not forget the evolution of Jenna, which is what I waited for. And of course, I rode Cam's wave all the way to the end! Okay, I'm done with my "but wait, there's more." 😂
March 4, 2026
Fine for a short story, bit baffling that they were talking about being in love not one day after she had split up from her boyfriend but okay 😌😌
March 12, 2026
A little cliche and very british! This was short n sweet, I liked it :)
Review of advance copy
Cute fun short story!
March 11, 2026
The Distance Between Us is a warm, engaging short story that has all the charm I expect from Phillipa Ashley. I really enjoyed the central relationship between Sophie, who is trying to piece her life back together, and Tom, the steady and quietly protective figure she reconnects with. Their dynamic is instantly appealing and has that familiar Ashley mix of humour, heart and a hint of emotional tension.
For such a short piece, the story does a great job of setting up the situation and giving a real sense of place. The early and middle sections are especially strong, drawing you into Sophie’s dilemma and the gentle spark that begins to grow between her and Tom. There is a warmth to their interactions that makes you root for them almost immediately.
My only real complaint is that the ending felt a little rushed. Just as the emotional threads were beginning to deepen, everything wrapped up more quickly than I would have liked. There is so much potential in both the characters and the set‑up that I found myself wishing this had been expanded into a full‑length novel, where the relationship could unfold with more time and depth.
Overall, this is a lovely, heartfelt short story with likeable characters and a sweet, hopeful tone. I enjoyed it, and I would happily read a longer version if Phillipa Ashley ever decided to revisit these two.
For such a short piece, the story does a great job of setting up the situation and giving a real sense of place. The early and middle sections are especially strong, drawing you into Sophie’s dilemma and the gentle spark that begins to grow between her and Tom. There is a warmth to their interactions that makes you root for them almost immediately.
My only real complaint is that the ending felt a little rushed. Just as the emotional threads were beginning to deepen, everything wrapped up more quickly than I would have liked. There is so much potential in both the characters and the set‑up that I found myself wishing this had been expanded into a full‑length novel, where the relationship could unfold with more time and depth.
Overall, this is a lovely, heartfelt short story with likeable characters and a sweet, hopeful tone. I enjoyed it, and I would happily read a longer version if Phillipa Ashley ever decided to revisit these two.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Rating: 2.0/5
I admire a good short story and the skill involved in telling a properly rounded story, complete with credibly fleshed-out characters within just a hundred pages or so, even if the genre is outside the parameters of my usual preferences. That said - even though I have no doubt that there is a market for this type of thing and that I am equally sure that some people will lap this up - this is far too simplistic and sickly sweet for my taste.
The premise of the story is fine and author, Phillipa Ashley, does indeed succeed in telling a complete tale within the number of pages available - if anything, it felt like the word count was being padded out unnecessarily at times.. However, the characterisation and the relationships between the protagonists (especially between Jenna and Nate) lack any sense of credibility, even after making allowances for dramatic licence.
After all is said and done, this is easily digestible in one sitting, so whether you like it or loathe it, it won't take up too much of your time.
I admire a good short story and the skill involved in telling a properly rounded story, complete with credibly fleshed-out characters within just a hundred pages or so, even if the genre is outside the parameters of my usual preferences. That said - even though I have no doubt that there is a market for this type of thing and that I am equally sure that some people will lap this up - this is far too simplistic and sickly sweet for my taste.
The premise of the story is fine and author, Phillipa Ashley, does indeed succeed in telling a complete tale within the number of pages available - if anything, it felt like the word count was being padded out unnecessarily at times.. However, the characterisation and the relationships between the protagonists (especially between Jenna and Nate) lack any sense of credibility, even after making allowances for dramatic licence.
After all is said and done, this is easily digestible in one sitting, so whether you like it or loathe it, it won't take up too much of your time.
March 22, 2026
The Distance Between Us is a beautifully written, emotionally engaging story that stays with you long after you’ve finished. It captures the complexity of relationships, growth, and connection in a way that feels both heartfelt and authentic. The characters are relatable and well developed, and their journey is filled with moments that are tender, thought‑provoking, and genuinely moving.
What really stands out is how the story balances emotion with hope. It explores distance—not just physical, but emotional—in a realistic way, making the message feel meaningful rather than forced. The pacing is smooth, the writing is engaging, and every chapter (or scene) adds depth to the overall experience.
This is a story that makes you reflect, smile, and sometimes ache, all at once. I couldn’t put it down and would absolutely recommend it to anyone who enjoys heartfelt, character‑driven stories. Truly deserving of five stars
What really stands out is how the story balances emotion with hope. It explores distance—not just physical, but emotional—in a realistic way, making the message feel meaningful rather than forced. The pacing is smooth, the writing is engaging, and every chapter (or scene) adds depth to the overall experience.
This is a story that makes you reflect, smile, and sometimes ache, all at once. I couldn’t put it down and would absolutely recommend it to anyone who enjoys heartfelt, character‑driven stories. Truly deserving of five stars
Review of advance copy
I got to read this through Amazon First Reads.
This is a feel-good and sweet short story that focuses on Cam and Jenna. The chemistry between them is believable and well written and they're both awesome characters overall. The charity ideas and challenges they run are all for a good cause and I found myself rooting for them to get together in the end. I just think that Jenna's fiance is a bit pretentious and he just wanted to change Jenna into someone that she isn't.
The bike ride that Cam did was interesting to read, especially the challenges he faced along with the unexpected accident at the end. I have no idea why, but I can see this story honestly being adapted into a film, which I would pay money to see. I do want a much longer story in the future featuring Cam and Jenna and how their relationship is going.
This is a feel-good and sweet short story that focuses on Cam and Jenna. The chemistry between them is believable and well written and they're both awesome characters overall. The charity ideas and challenges they run are all for a good cause and I found myself rooting for them to get together in the end. I just think that Jenna's fiance is a bit pretentious and he just wanted to change Jenna into someone that she isn't.
The bike ride that Cam did was interesting to read, especially the challenges he faced along with the unexpected accident at the end. I have no idea why, but I can see this story honestly being adapted into a film, which I would pay money to see. I do want a much longer story in the future featuring Cam and Jenna and how their relationship is going.
March 7, 2026
The Distance Between Us is a lovely short story that provides everything a lovely short story should: interesting, sympathetic characters, an engaging plot (will Cameron manage to complete the grueling 1000 mile plus bike trek?) and a sweet happy ending. It even sent me researching the journey for myself and wondering if I'd ever want to try traveling from John o' Groats to Land's End, where apparently there are sign posts just as described in the story. I enjoyed the narration and look forward to discovering Phillipa Ashley’s backlist. I’m grateful to NetGalley for a review copy of the audiobook.
March 12, 2026
„The distance between us“ is a cute short story following Jenna and Cameron - two work colleagues - who have built a friendship via continuous video meetings… will it lead to more? A lovely modern day romcom.
Having listened to the audiobook I have to say that I enjoyed this quick story, even though I have to say that it felt rushed in some places and long in others. It has been narrated by Emma Heap and Angus Yellowlees, who did an amazing job. Lovely voices, great accents and just the right reading speed.
I’d recommend it to anyone who likes quick reads and romcoms with a lovely setting.
Thank you to Brilliance Publishing, NetGalley and Phillipa Ashley for this ARC!
Having listened to the audiobook I have to say that I enjoyed this quick story, even though I have to say that it felt rushed in some places and long in others. It has been narrated by Emma Heap and Angus Yellowlees, who did an amazing job. Lovely voices, great accents and just the right reading speed.
I’d recommend it to anyone who likes quick reads and romcoms with a lovely setting.
Thank you to Brilliance Publishing, NetGalley and Phillipa Ashley for this ARC!
February 5, 2026
The Distance Between Us by Phillipa Ashley
The Distance Between Us by Phillip Ashley is a short story about two people who are fund raisers for charities and live at opposite ends of the country.
They have only either met via zoom or spoken on the phone.
can ‘s girlfriend died three years ago before he ask her to marry him and he gave everything up to work in the Charity sector. Jenna is engaged and is due to marry in October.
Then there is the kilt challenge and the cycle ride in a kilt and then everything changes.
Recommended.
The Distance Between Us by Phillip Ashley is a short story about two people who are fund raisers for charities and live at opposite ends of the country.
They have only either met via zoom or spoken on the phone.
can ‘s girlfriend died three years ago before he ask her to marry him and he gave everything up to work in the Charity sector. Jenna is engaged and is due to marry in October.
Then there is the kilt challenge and the cycle ride in a kilt and then everything changes.
Recommended.
February 24, 2026
A short story about Cam and Jenna, who co-ordinate challenges between Land’s End and John O’Groats. An epic bike ride called the ‘Kilt Challenge’ is about to take place and Cam and Jenna are eager to do their bit. A sweet little story about the growing love and long distance relationship between two people. It’s an easy and gentle read which only took me about a day to finish it. I’ve never read a book by Philippa Ashley before so it was a nice introduction to her work.
March 14, 2026
I received an audio ARC of The Distance Between Us by Phillipa Ashley thanks to the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Short and sweet, guy falls first novella. I liked the relationship between the two main characters right away. You could feel the emotions and watch as they unfolded. It was very well done, especially for only being a little over 100 pages long. It was a quick read but a good one!
Short and sweet, guy falls first novella. I liked the relationship between the two main characters right away. You could feel the emotions and watch as they unfolded. It was very well done, especially for only being a little over 100 pages long. It was a quick read but a good one!
Review of advance copy
Total stars: 4
Amazon First Reads - February
I needed a palette cleanser and this was a perfect easy read. Fully rounded and likeable characters, simple story but executed really well. It also me really want to visit Cornwall and JOG.
For a short story I feel like it covered everything that it needed to and I feel very satisfied.
Amazon First Reads - February
I needed a palette cleanser and this was a perfect easy read. Fully rounded and likeable characters, simple story but executed really well. It also me really want to visit Cornwall and JOG.
For a short story I feel like it covered everything that it needed to and I feel very satisfied.
February 11, 2026
Such a warm, longing, lovely read!
Nate, the red flags were flashing there for a while. I was rooting for Jenna to wake up and see what was going on. Cam was so warm and lovely. I loved the bike ride for charity, those shorts were cheating under that kilt ;-)
Short, sweet read, I was invested and enjoyed it!
Nate, the red flags were flashing there for a while. I was rooting for Jenna to wake up and see what was going on. Cam was so warm and lovely. I loved the bike ride for charity, those shorts were cheating under that kilt ;-)
Short, sweet read, I was invested and enjoyed it!
Review of advance copy
I read this through Amazon First Reads. It's a sweet short story, with great characters that you root for. I really liked Jenna and Cam, who live at Land's End and John o'Groats, and have been communicating via Zoom for the past twelve months as colleagues. In that time they've built a connection, but they're so far apart it's pointless, isn't it? A bit twee, but enjoyable.
February 22, 2026
I’m a huge Phillipa Ashley fan so downloaded The Distance Between Us on my Kindle as soon as I heard about it.
This heartwarming story follows Cam and Jenna, who live at opposite ends of the country. It was the perfect cosy read for a rainy windy morning and I finished it in one go!
It’s a sweet romantic read with the ending you hope for. 💗
This heartwarming story follows Cam and Jenna, who live at opposite ends of the country. It was the perfect cosy read for a rainy windy morning and I finished it in one go!
It’s a sweet romantic read with the ending you hope for. 💗
Review of advance copy
I was able to read this early on the kindle app.
I felt it was a very charming and sweet short story and found myself invested in the characters very quickly. Cam and Jenna were so likeable and the emotions between them were easily conveyed within the 100 or so pages of the book.
I would definitely recommend it.
I felt it was a very charming and sweet short story and found myself invested in the characters very quickly. Cam and Jenna were so likeable and the emotions between them were easily conveyed within the 100 or so pages of the book.
I would definitely recommend it.
March 4, 2026
This was a predictable short story. The female character was easily swayed into being married. The male character was insane to take on the challenge without training. There wasn't enough background to understand how these two had so much chemistry. I kept waiting for more depth but it seemed so superficial. It was definitely lightweight.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews