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The Love Shack
They’ve found a dream first home. But making it theirs will be a nightmare. Desperate to get on the housing ladder, Gemma and Dan move in with his mum to save up for a deposit. But between Dan's mum's kitchen karaoke, argumentative streak and questionable cooking, life back in his childhood bedroom would test the patience of a saints. Which he is definitely not. Gemma's determined to make it work, no matter how bad things get. But as she’s trying to convince herself it will all be worth it, her past comes back to haunt her. . . shaking the foundations of their relationship to its core.
344 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2015
54 people are currently reading
1267 people want to read
About the author
Jane Costello
18 books1,100 followersI’m the internationally bestselling author of 15 novels, five of which have been published under the name ‘Catherine Isaac’.
The latest of my ‘heartwarming and hilarious’ romantic comedies is ‘IT’S GETTING HOT IN HERE’, the first book I’ve written that has a 40-something main character. My novels have been translated into 26 languages, selected by the Richard & Judy Book Club and I’ve been honoured to win a Romantic Novelists’ Award - twice!
I was born in Liverpool, where I still live with my husband and three sons. When I’m not writing, you’ll usually find me on the tennis court, wishing I’d started to play about 25 years before I did.
The latest of my ‘heartwarming and hilarious’ romantic comedies is ‘IT’S GETTING HOT IN HERE’, the first book I’ve written that has a 40-something main character. My novels have been translated into 26 languages, selected by the Richard & Judy Book Club and I’ve been honoured to win a Romantic Novelists’ Award - twice!
I was born in Liverpool, where I still live with my husband and three sons. When I’m not writing, you’ll usually find me on the tennis court, wishing I’d started to play about 25 years before I did.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 153 reviews
January 12, 2019
Dan and Gemma it's interesting having an already established couple and I love the meeting (again) in Lake Windemere. I loved the setting of places in this book, I hadn't read one on Liverpool before most of the books I pick up are based around London.
The main story is of Dan and Gemma wanting to buy a house (A Love Shack) in order to have the house of their dreams (they thought) they must live with Dan's mum for a while. I love the books she writes and quite like her but wouldn't be too keen on living with her. A side story develops of Gemma's Ex Alex (Her first love) seeing him when on a job in Manchester. I didn't actually mind Alex too much even though Dan is my favourite. Dan's job is so rewarding but not the highest paid in the world when needing so much money for the house.
It dragged a little in the middle for me to give more than 3 stars however it was an easy read.
I like the story being told from Dan's view point as well as Gemma. I really think Jane Costello manages to write well from his point of view. I do like Dan much more than Gemma. In the end Dan does get what he wants showing sometimes people and doing what you love is better than having an expensive house and I'm pleased his job situation is sorted out too.
The main story is of Dan and Gemma wanting to buy a house (A Love Shack) in order to have the house of their dreams (they thought) they must live with Dan's mum for a while. I love the books she writes and quite like her but wouldn't be too keen on living with her. A side story develops of Gemma's Ex Alex (Her first love) seeing him when on a job in Manchester. I didn't actually mind Alex too much even though Dan is my favourite. Dan's job is so rewarding but not the highest paid in the world when needing so much money for the house.
It dragged a little in the middle for me to give more than 3 stars however it was an easy read.
I like the story being told from Dan's view point as well as Gemma. I really think Jane Costello manages to write well from his point of view. I do like Dan much more than Gemma. In the end Dan does get what he wants showing sometimes people and doing what you love is better than having an expensive house and I'm pleased his job situation is sorted out too.
December 28, 2015
I was given this book as a Christmas present so it's not the usual genre I would read, however I tried not to let this impact upon my rating.
Gemma and Dan are house hunting, when they finally come across the "perfect" house for them. Unfortunately, it's not in their budget and to be able to afford it they need to move in with Dan's mum. This is not the best arrangement for their privacy or sanity.
I liked the way the story was told from both Dan and Gemma's perspective and it was quite humorous in parts. I did literally laugh out loud at some of the incidents. I did find the storyline a little flimsy, although it kept me entertained for most of the book. It was only towards the end that I really started to lose interest and just wanted things to move at a faster pace. It was very romantic and quite "lovey dovey", which is definitely not my cup of tea, but to be expected in a book titled "The Love Shack". Overall it was alright and I would recommend if wanting something very light hearted and easy to read. Also would recommend for those who like romantic comedies.
Gemma and Dan are house hunting, when they finally come across the "perfect" house for them. Unfortunately, it's not in their budget and to be able to afford it they need to move in with Dan's mum. This is not the best arrangement for their privacy or sanity.
I liked the way the story was told from both Dan and Gemma's perspective and it was quite humorous in parts. I did literally laugh out loud at some of the incidents. I did find the storyline a little flimsy, although it kept me entertained for most of the book. It was only towards the end that I really started to lose interest and just wanted things to move at a faster pace. It was very romantic and quite "lovey dovey", which is definitely not my cup of tea, but to be expected in a book titled "The Love Shack". Overall it was alright and I would recommend if wanting something very light hearted and easy to read. Also would recommend for those who like romantic comedies.
December 25, 2020
After reading Jane Costello's Summer Nights at the Moonlight Hotel and Girl on the Run and absolutely loving those, I had high hopes from The Love Shack but after reading about 40 pages I knew that I was not going to love it. But what I didn't anticipate was how much I was going to hate this book and I am really upset that I hated this book because I really wanted to love this.
Gemma and Dan are already a couple so it's a bit of a different premise than meet cute rom-com story. There are some flashbacks thrown in how they met and got together but I never saw any chemistry between the two. Also, this is told both from Dan as well as Gemma's perspective. In the beginning they both sounded the same and I couldn't care for either of them but about half way through I didn't mind Dan's character. He was thoughtful, caring and really loved his job helping people where he didn't even get paid that much.
Gemma on the other hand was an awful character. She was completely different to Abby from Girl on the Run and Lauren from Summer nights (both these characters I could relate to and didn't hate). Gemma was controlling, she lied, she cheated even though it was mostly distracted emotional affair and kept on butting in everyone's business. There was no explanation about her background save for a small mention of her mother. And what I hated most about her character was that she kept lying to everyone and told their secrets to others while keeping her own secrets safe with her. When Dan confronts her about borrowing money from his mother behind his back even though he repeatedly told her not to, she started crying. OMG I hate people when they are confronted for lying and they start to cry and pose as the victims. I cannot stand people like those. I just hated her character more and more as the book kept progressing.
Also, it's a book about saving up to buy a house. I don't know how could this keep going for 484 pages. I wanted to DNF but kept on reading thinking may be it will get better but it never did.
This was supposed to be funny but I didn't even smile once let alone laugh at anything in the book. All the supporting characters were just plain boring and were there just for the sake of them being there. Again, I cannot believe that this was Jane Costello's work. I have her other books lined up for reading and I hope they are better.
0 stars
Gemma and Dan are already a couple so it's a bit of a different premise than meet cute rom-com story. There are some flashbacks thrown in how they met and got together but I never saw any chemistry between the two. Also, this is told both from Dan as well as Gemma's perspective. In the beginning they both sounded the same and I couldn't care for either of them but about half way through I didn't mind Dan's character. He was thoughtful, caring and really loved his job helping people where he didn't even get paid that much.
Gemma on the other hand was an awful character. She was completely different to Abby from Girl on the Run and Lauren from Summer nights (both these characters I could relate to and didn't hate). Gemma was controlling, she lied, she cheated even though it was mostly distracted emotional affair and kept on butting in everyone's business. There was no explanation about her background save for a small mention of her mother. And what I hated most about her character was that she kept lying to everyone and told their secrets to others while keeping her own secrets safe with her. When Dan confronts her about borrowing money from his mother behind his back even though he repeatedly told her not to, she started crying. OMG I hate people when they are confronted for lying and they start to cry and pose as the victims. I cannot stand people like those. I just hated her character more and more as the book kept progressing.
Also, it's a book about saving up to buy a house. I don't know how could this keep going for 484 pages. I wanted to DNF but kept on reading thinking may be it will get better but it never did.
This was supposed to be funny but I didn't even smile once let alone laugh at anything in the book. All the supporting characters were just plain boring and were there just for the sake of them being there. Again, I cannot believe that this was Jane Costello's work. I have her other books lined up for reading and I hope they are better.
0 stars
April 21, 2015
I've had a pleasure to read all Jane Costello's books and I loved all of them, without exception. They are light, easy and often have many laugh - out - loud moments, and there is nothing better after a stressful and demanding day to be able to sit with a book and relax. I am always waiting impatiently for Jane's new novels and every new publication day is like my birthday coming sooner, and when I spotted that "The Love Shack" is going to be published in April, the countdown began.
Gemma and Dan are a couple, very lovely couple. They want to be with each other for ever so they decided that it's the highest time to buy a house together. And so the viewings begin... After months and months of seeing all sort of houses they find it: The Pebble Cottage. That's THE house. There is only one problem: it's a little over their budget. What now? Gemma has an idea: they should give up on the flat they're renting, move with Dan's mum and money that they are going to save this way invest in their dream house. Easy - peasy? Not necessary, but what has to be done, has to be done... Add to this an ex - boyfriend, crazy estate agent, mother who cooks so gladly, even though she can't cook, creaky bed and, shortly, no privacy... Are Dan and Gemma going to not only buy the house, but stand the test of time?
Eeek, I can't tell you enough what a gorgeous, funny, but also touching read it was! It has lived up to all my expectations and more. I have raced through the pages, fell in love with the characters, laughed out loud at their antics, kept my fingers crossed for them and actually felt like a part of the story myself.
To be honest, I haven't expected Belinda, Dan's mother, to be like this, and just let me tell you that she couldn't surprise me more! She's like a colourful bird, larger than life character who first tells and then thinks about the consequences (or rather not!), and made her career as an author of books about bastards. I mean, men. Because in her eyes there is not a man that could be okay. Especially Dan's father, who is a different story, really. And well, it doesn't take long for Gemma and Dan to be desperate to move out again, and tucking Dan to sleep in the night is only the most harmless example why.
The story is told by Dan and Gemma alternatively, and it slowly goes round in a circle, as they both tell us not only about what is happening now but also recall their past and how they got to know each other. I absolutely loved the chapters told from Dan's point of view and Jane, really a great job to put herself so much into Dan's shoes, it all sounded so true and realistic. And well, now it's time for a confession, I bloody adored Dan. Swoon. Swoon. And swoon again. And maybe a little sigh. He was funny, he was ambitious, he was gorgeous, and he had a heart in the right place, and oh my god, I've just melted when I've seen what he did to secure the house for his girl. Meow. And instead of earning big money in the City he decided to work for a homeless charity. Shall I continue? I think you have the picture already, right?
Gemma was so relatable to and I could so absolutely understand and justify all the things that she did. Yes, maybe she shouldn't lie to Dan but oh my word, who of us haven't once closed your eyes and though: it is going to be okay, things will work out somehow? So there.
There is a bunch of great, colourful supporting characters, and I adored all of them, especially Gemma and Dan's work colleagues, or even Fanny Magnet. Ha! Sadie and Pete and their antics with the boss' car or falling in love were incredibly entertaining and they added tons of warmth and fun to the story. And let's not forget Rich, one in a million estate agent.
After reading "The Love Shack" I am so, so thankful to all the concerned and responsible that I NEVER had to look for a house. What an ungrateful job, guys...! And finding a house seems to be the easiest thing to do, the real work start later, with the surveys, all the paperwork and having to deal with the estate agents... Especially when they are called Rich, haha! Scenes with Rich with exceptional, the ones and only, believe me!
But the book is of course not only about finding your dream house. There is also the issue of having a father who doesn't feel like father at all, of being honest to yourself and to your other half, of making decisions, of being adult, and yes, being adult often sucks! It is a bitter - sweat rollercoaster of a brilliant story, that is told in the most adorable, funny way. There were some scenes that had me laughing out loud, literally, especially when Gemma's boss was bemoaning his car, or when Gemma was "delicately" getting him to understand that she knows what he does in his office, but also all the scenes with Belinda have added so much humour, they were absolutely hilarious. The whole episode of buying the house is described with so much wit and every time the house sale was stopped or delayed because of some new - of course unpredictable - circumstances, I could only frown and eventually I myself couldn't wait for Dan and Gemma to GET. THEIR. DREAM. HOUSE. Without a squeaky bed and a group of Dan's mum's friends listening to the music (and all other things) in the kitchen downstairs.
So guys, the book is so worth reading! It contains love, drama, humour, tears, uncertainty, brilliant characters that you very quickly start to root for, and much, much more, written in the most pleasurable writing style. As usual in Jane's books, there are funny moments, balanced with the more serious one, and it certainly constitutes a great read. "The Love Shack" is a kind of read that you're going to treasure and care for. With every new book Jane Costello only confirms her strong position in the women's literature world, and this book is Jane at her best. So. Have you got your copy yet?
Copy received from publisher in exchange for a review.
Gemma and Dan are a couple, very lovely couple. They want to be with each other for ever so they decided that it's the highest time to buy a house together. And so the viewings begin... After months and months of seeing all sort of houses they find it: The Pebble Cottage. That's THE house. There is only one problem: it's a little over their budget. What now? Gemma has an idea: they should give up on the flat they're renting, move with Dan's mum and money that they are going to save this way invest in their dream house. Easy - peasy? Not necessary, but what has to be done, has to be done... Add to this an ex - boyfriend, crazy estate agent, mother who cooks so gladly, even though she can't cook, creaky bed and, shortly, no privacy... Are Dan and Gemma going to not only buy the house, but stand the test of time?
Eeek, I can't tell you enough what a gorgeous, funny, but also touching read it was! It has lived up to all my expectations and more. I have raced through the pages, fell in love with the characters, laughed out loud at their antics, kept my fingers crossed for them and actually felt like a part of the story myself.
To be honest, I haven't expected Belinda, Dan's mother, to be like this, and just let me tell you that she couldn't surprise me more! She's like a colourful bird, larger than life character who first tells and then thinks about the consequences (or rather not!), and made her career as an author of books about bastards. I mean, men. Because in her eyes there is not a man that could be okay. Especially Dan's father, who is a different story, really. And well, it doesn't take long for Gemma and Dan to be desperate to move out again, and tucking Dan to sleep in the night is only the most harmless example why.
The story is told by Dan and Gemma alternatively, and it slowly goes round in a circle, as they both tell us not only about what is happening now but also recall their past and how they got to know each other. I absolutely loved the chapters told from Dan's point of view and Jane, really a great job to put herself so much into Dan's shoes, it all sounded so true and realistic. And well, now it's time for a confession, I bloody adored Dan. Swoon. Swoon. And swoon again. And maybe a little sigh. He was funny, he was ambitious, he was gorgeous, and he had a heart in the right place, and oh my god, I've just melted when I've seen what he did to secure the house for his girl. Meow. And instead of earning big money in the City he decided to work for a homeless charity. Shall I continue? I think you have the picture already, right?
Gemma was so relatable to and I could so absolutely understand and justify all the things that she did. Yes, maybe she shouldn't lie to Dan but oh my word, who of us haven't once closed your eyes and though: it is going to be okay, things will work out somehow? So there.
There is a bunch of great, colourful supporting characters, and I adored all of them, especially Gemma and Dan's work colleagues, or even Fanny Magnet. Ha! Sadie and Pete and their antics with the boss' car or falling in love were incredibly entertaining and they added tons of warmth and fun to the story. And let's not forget Rich, one in a million estate agent.
After reading "The Love Shack" I am so, so thankful to all the concerned and responsible that I NEVER had to look for a house. What an ungrateful job, guys...! And finding a house seems to be the easiest thing to do, the real work start later, with the surveys, all the paperwork and having to deal with the estate agents... Especially when they are called Rich, haha! Scenes with Rich with exceptional, the ones and only, believe me!
But the book is of course not only about finding your dream house. There is also the issue of having a father who doesn't feel like father at all, of being honest to yourself and to your other half, of making decisions, of being adult, and yes, being adult often sucks! It is a bitter - sweat rollercoaster of a brilliant story, that is told in the most adorable, funny way. There were some scenes that had me laughing out loud, literally, especially when Gemma's boss was bemoaning his car, or when Gemma was "delicately" getting him to understand that she knows what he does in his office, but also all the scenes with Belinda have added so much humour, they were absolutely hilarious. The whole episode of buying the house is described with so much wit and every time the house sale was stopped or delayed because of some new - of course unpredictable - circumstances, I could only frown and eventually I myself couldn't wait for Dan and Gemma to GET. THEIR. DREAM. HOUSE. Without a squeaky bed and a group of Dan's mum's friends listening to the music (and all other things) in the kitchen downstairs.
So guys, the book is so worth reading! It contains love, drama, humour, tears, uncertainty, brilliant characters that you very quickly start to root for, and much, much more, written in the most pleasurable writing style. As usual in Jane's books, there are funny moments, balanced with the more serious one, and it certainly constitutes a great read. "The Love Shack" is a kind of read that you're going to treasure and care for. With every new book Jane Costello only confirms her strong position in the women's literature world, and this book is Jane at her best. So. Have you got your copy yet?
Copy received from publisher in exchange for a review.
April 29, 2015
I have yet to read a book this year that has really made me laugh so I treated myself to The Love Shack by Jane Costello as I can always rely on this author to get a smirk on my face. The cover is a complete new look compared to her previous books and I much prefer it, it is bold, bright and fun and really stands out so it gets a big thumbs up from me.
Dan and Gemma have found the house of their dreams but they need to raise more money and their only option is moving back in with Dan’s mum. Will their relationship survive the stress of buying a house on top of the troubles of living with Dan’s mum or will Gemma be tempted by her past?
I could really relate to parts of this book because my husband and I are currently in the process of moving back in with my parents, I just hope that we don’t have to endure half of the problems Dan and Gemma faced!
The storyline was realistic with wonderful relatable characters, Gemma and Dan were a delightful couple but it was Dan’s mum Belinda who won me over she provided a lot of the humour in this book, her innuendos when it came to sex had me in stitches! This is the first book in a long time that has really made me laugh. Jane Costello manages to write with such witty humour that flows so well it really seems to come naturally and fits in perfectly with the storyline.
I never knew all the way through the book if the couple would ever manage to get their dream house or not but I was really hoping they would because they were so good together and they really tried so hard to do everything in their power to make the house theirs they were desperate to get their dream home.
This was a fantastic, witty read and this is definitely my favourite by Jane Costello.
Dan and Gemma have found the house of their dreams but they need to raise more money and their only option is moving back in with Dan’s mum. Will their relationship survive the stress of buying a house on top of the troubles of living with Dan’s mum or will Gemma be tempted by her past?
I could really relate to parts of this book because my husband and I are currently in the process of moving back in with my parents, I just hope that we don’t have to endure half of the problems Dan and Gemma faced!
The storyline was realistic with wonderful relatable characters, Gemma and Dan were a delightful couple but it was Dan’s mum Belinda who won me over she provided a lot of the humour in this book, her innuendos when it came to sex had me in stitches! This is the first book in a long time that has really made me laugh. Jane Costello manages to write with such witty humour that flows so well it really seems to come naturally and fits in perfectly with the storyline.
I never knew all the way through the book if the couple would ever manage to get their dream house or not but I was really hoping they would because they were so good together and they really tried so hard to do everything in their power to make the house theirs they were desperate to get their dream home.
This was a fantastic, witty read and this is definitely my favourite by Jane Costello.
May 20, 2015
Gemma and Dan are madly in love and ready to move on to the next big step in their lives - buying a house together. They fall in love with Pebble Cottage at first sight, and are resolved to do anything in order to secure the house of their dreams - even moving in with Dan's mum Belinda for a few months in order to improve their financial situation. Needless to say the next few months prove to be challenging in more ways than one; they face obstacle after obstacle to finalise a deal on Pebble Cottage, the surmounting pressure taking its toll on their relationship, nor does the fact they get hardly any privacy now that they've moved in with Belinda help. To cap it all off when Gemma's ex boyfriend Alex shows up on the scene again, she can't help but feel the old spark between them strike up. However, what does it all spell for Dan and Gemma's relationship?
The central premise of the story is certainly quite different from Costello's previous work, with our hero and heroine already in a firm relationship at the start of the story. As such this is not the conventional boy meets girl, but rather boy and girl facing the everyday ups and downs of life and relationship challenges that you don't read about in most chicklit; this is more after the happy ever after territory. As such in some ways the story makes for a refreshing change; and the pressures and stresses that come Gemma and Dan's way are ones that most couples likely face at some point - especially buying your first house.
Given the subject matter, the plot did sometimes suffer from feeling too mundane though I thought. I want to read a book to escape, not to delve into the frustrating world of property markets and mortgages etc. Merely reading about the nightmare that was Pebble Cottage was enough to give me a headache. Perhaps as such I didn't find this quite such an easy read as Costello's other books, nor as sharp in humour. Certainly there were some funny parts, but the laughs didn't seem to come as often in this book.
The story is told from the alternating points of view of both Gemma and Dan; and yet despite this I didn't connect to either of them as much as some of Costello's previous central characters. Nor did I think that the chemistry between them was as palpable.
Overall I have to say I was left a little disappointed from what I have come to generally expect from Costello.
The central premise of the story is certainly quite different from Costello's previous work, with our hero and heroine already in a firm relationship at the start of the story. As such this is not the conventional boy meets girl, but rather boy and girl facing the everyday ups and downs of life and relationship challenges that you don't read about in most chicklit; this is more after the happy ever after territory. As such in some ways the story makes for a refreshing change; and the pressures and stresses that come Gemma and Dan's way are ones that most couples likely face at some point - especially buying your first house.
Given the subject matter, the plot did sometimes suffer from feeling too mundane though I thought. I want to read a book to escape, not to delve into the frustrating world of property markets and mortgages etc. Merely reading about the nightmare that was Pebble Cottage was enough to give me a headache. Perhaps as such I didn't find this quite such an easy read as Costello's other books, nor as sharp in humour. Certainly there were some funny parts, but the laughs didn't seem to come as often in this book.
The story is told from the alternating points of view of both Gemma and Dan; and yet despite this I didn't connect to either of them as much as some of Costello's previous central characters. Nor did I think that the chemistry between them was as palpable.
Overall I have to say I was left a little disappointed from what I have come to generally expect from Costello.
January 29, 2018
Review to come.
January 5, 2016
This isn’t something I would normally pick up. I usually tend to lean more towards the Young Adult or New Adult just because it’s closer to my actual age, meaning I relate to it more. But I was browsing the book section and thought this book looked quite interesting, and so here I am.
This book was so damn funny. I really liked that it wasn’t funny in a silly, unrealistic way. There are so many books out there, that try to be too funny, and it’s just way over the top. But the humour in this book, was done so well and I found myself laughing out loud quite a bit.
I appreciated the unique story line this book offered. The characters were already in a relationship, and rather than this book being about them resolving an issue they had in their relationship (which most books which deal with characters already in relationships are), they were happy together and trying to make a life for themselves. There were of course a few ups and downs along the way (which is to be expected), but it was very unique I found, and I liked the change of pace.
This book is full of fun and quirky characters. From the awkward mother in law who has no filter to the wacky slightly insane real estate agent, you're in for a good laugh. I loved how it was told in dual perspectives with alternating chapters, something I wasn’t expecting. I personally liked reading Dan’s chapters more because he is just such a funny, sarcastic character and really sees things for how they are. Also, I just really liked Dan and couldn’t get enough of him. Gemma was also a really nice character, although certain events in the book made me kind of not like her for about 1/3 of the story. Reading from her perspective was entertaining though and I did enjoy it.
My only issue with this book, was the ending. I felt like throughout the whole book the anticipation about what would happen was building and building, until when I finally got to it, I felt a bit let down. There were also times where I felt like the story was dragging on a bit, but it wasn’t for long so it wasn’t a huge issue for me.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. It did everything it was supposed to. It made me laugh (a lot), cry and kept me coming back for more. I would definitely recommend this for fans of Sophie Kinsella, Paige Toon, or if you just want a light hearted, funny British read reminiscent of the likes of Brigit Jones' Diary.
4/5
This book was so damn funny. I really liked that it wasn’t funny in a silly, unrealistic way. There are so many books out there, that try to be too funny, and it’s just way over the top. But the humour in this book, was done so well and I found myself laughing out loud quite a bit.
I appreciated the unique story line this book offered. The characters were already in a relationship, and rather than this book being about them resolving an issue they had in their relationship (which most books which deal with characters already in relationships are), they were happy together and trying to make a life for themselves. There were of course a few ups and downs along the way (which is to be expected), but it was very unique I found, and I liked the change of pace.
This book is full of fun and quirky characters. From the awkward mother in law who has no filter to the wacky slightly insane real estate agent, you're in for a good laugh. I loved how it was told in dual perspectives with alternating chapters, something I wasn’t expecting. I personally liked reading Dan’s chapters more because he is just such a funny, sarcastic character and really sees things for how they are. Also, I just really liked Dan and couldn’t get enough of him. Gemma was also a really nice character, although certain events in the book made me kind of not like her for about 1/3 of the story. Reading from her perspective was entertaining though and I did enjoy it.
My only issue with this book, was the ending. I felt like throughout the whole book the anticipation about what would happen was building and building, until when I finally got to it, I felt a bit let down. There were also times where I felt like the story was dragging on a bit, but it wasn’t for long so it wasn’t a huge issue for me.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. It did everything it was supposed to. It made me laugh (a lot), cry and kept me coming back for more. I would definitely recommend this for fans of Sophie Kinsella, Paige Toon, or if you just want a light hearted, funny British read reminiscent of the likes of Brigit Jones' Diary.
4/5
January 10, 2018
Firstly, I cannot believe all the high reviews on this book, secondly - the best thing about this book is that I managed to finish it in 5 agonizing days and now can put it away for good.
It was dreadful, from page 1 right up to page 485 (?). How an entire premise is based on a couple buying a new house, is simply beyond me, I'm sorry but why was this even a story, no actually where was the story?
Page after page, I was hoping something more would come out from this entire tale, but it really was a sheer waste of time!
The story (if I could call it that) is told through two points of views, Dan and (to be honest I'm struggling to even remember the female character, because it truly was that forgettable and I only put the book down last night.) - Gemma, who have set their hearts on a house they cannot afford, but still want.
So basically the entire book is about how they manage to do everything in their power to try and raise enough funds to buy their dream house.
The book is deemed as a laugh out loud novel - only if you're one who enjoys fart jokes, people having diarrhea and find picking your nose funny will you be able to appreciate the humour in this novel. It didn't even make me smile, not once! At very most, it made me sick and sad that this was considered humour.
To my surprise as well, this book which supposedly is based in the UK, had several US references in it - such as Frasier Crane, which I of course know (I watch too many US sitcoms), but I know enough people who live in the UK, who barely know who this character is. There was also a mention of walking into a seven-eleven for a bottle of wine, which I am sure isn't in the UK.
Factual errors were all over the place. In addition, there was a lot of reference to Dan's family and his back ground, but almost zero to where Gemma came from - no mention of who her parents were or if she had any siblings (maybe I missed it, so correct me if I'm wrong) - therefore character development fell flat for me.
I wouldn't recommend this to anyone, it was way too long, way too long-winded, background stories dropped into the middle of nowhere, making it really hard to follow and even if it was not in the least bit funny, it didn't even tug at my heart strings. Never have I been so glad to finish a book and put it out of my memory for ever now.
It was dreadful, from page 1 right up to page 485 (?). How an entire premise is based on a couple buying a new house, is simply beyond me, I'm sorry but why was this even a story, no actually where was the story?
Page after page, I was hoping something more would come out from this entire tale, but it really was a sheer waste of time!
The story (if I could call it that) is told through two points of views, Dan and (to be honest I'm struggling to even remember the female character, because it truly was that forgettable and I only put the book down last night.) - Gemma, who have set their hearts on a house they cannot afford, but still want.
So basically the entire book is about how they manage to do everything in their power to try and raise enough funds to buy their dream house.
The book is deemed as a laugh out loud novel - only if you're one who enjoys fart jokes, people having diarrhea and find picking your nose funny will you be able to appreciate the humour in this novel. It didn't even make me smile, not once! At very most, it made me sick and sad that this was considered humour.
To my surprise as well, this book which supposedly is based in the UK, had several US references in it - such as Frasier Crane, which I of course know (I watch too many US sitcoms), but I know enough people who live in the UK, who barely know who this character is. There was also a mention of walking into a seven-eleven for a bottle of wine, which I am sure isn't in the UK.
Factual errors were all over the place. In addition, there was a lot of reference to Dan's family and his back ground, but almost zero to where Gemma came from - no mention of who her parents were or if she had any siblings (maybe I missed it, so correct me if I'm wrong) - therefore character development fell flat for me.
I wouldn't recommend this to anyone, it was way too long, way too long-winded, background stories dropped into the middle of nowhere, making it really hard to follow and even if it was not in the least bit funny, it didn't even tug at my heart strings. Never have I been so glad to finish a book and put it out of my memory for ever now.
October 8, 2015
Laugh out loud funny, romantic and very British audiobook. I'll definitely listen to more by this author.
May 25, 2015
Posted in full http://www.reviewedthebook.co.uk/2015...
Before The Love Shack, I’d only ever read one Jane Costello book which was The Time Of Our Lives. I completely fell in love with Jane’s writing on my first read and even now, having read countless books from other brilliant authors since, The Time Of Our Lives is still one of my favourite books and I still think about the characters now. With that I knew I just had to read Jane’s next novel, and back catalogue and every book to come, and The Love Shack did not disappoint at all. Jane has this gorgeous style of writing that has you actually laughing out loud one minute then feeling so moved emotionally within the next page or so. What I loved about The Love Shack, which was evident from the two introductory chapters to main characters Dan and Gemma, is that this was a book written about two characters obviously genuinely madly in love with each other. It stood out straight away because a lot of women’s fiction is about a girl meeting a guy and then all the feelings and issues that come with the building of a relationship. But Dan and Gemma, their chemistry and love for each other rolled off the pages. They were both wonderfully vibrant, loved-up characters and even though you know that Jane is going to throw obstacle after obstacle in front of them, the characters and plot were so refreshing to read that even with the more tender moments, it was a book that left me feeling warm and happy and optimistic, every time I had to put it down.
Dan and Gemma have found their perfect home. It’s not actually perfect, there’s a mountain of work to be done on it, but it is perfect for them. Pebble Cottage. The issue is (or at least one of the several hundred issues is) that they cannot afford it, on their own, in any sense. I’m sure people who have been house hunting can relate that it can be a complete nightmare. Well poor Dan and Gemma do not fill you with much hope that that’s not the case, but they are both strong-willed and stubborn and decide that they can’t give up on Pebble Cottage. They have to buy it, even if that means giving up their current rented place and moving in with Dan’s mum, Belinda, until they can afford it. For the first half of the book, my jaw was aching so badly I can’t even explain, I was just laughing so much at the chaos that was living with Belinda. Dan’s mum was completely lovely but also completely mad. From her loud singing the wrong words to the strangest of songs, to her horrendous assassination of food (or cooking as she knows it), to her sexual innuendos which had me cringing and Dan desperately wanting to disappear, she was crazy but so much fun to read about. Jane wrote Belinda’s character so naturally funny that I could really picture this barmy woman doing everything that was described, even tucking her 29 year old son up in bed…
The Love Shack is told in alternate chapters between Dan and Gemma. I find it rare to read equally from a man’s perspective in women’s fiction, and especially not as realistically as Jane has done here. Dan’s voice really comes through and he is very believable. I loved his character and yes he did have me swooning but also laughing, a lot. He wasn’t too cheesy-romantic and over the top but at the same time, he wasn’t an overdone typical male character. I felt Jane portrayed him in such a great way in that you know he has those stereotypical male thoughts (the pain of creaky beds when you’re living with your girlfriend at your mum’s house…) but you can also find yourself falling head over heels with the romantic side to his character too. Dan was a witty character but so was Gemma and I really enjoyed her character too. She wasn’t perfect, she wasn’t always completely honest but she was thoughtful and caring and only ever wanted the best for everyone. Some of my favourite Gemma moments were at work where we see her relationships with Sebastian and Sadie. Some of the situations they found themselves in had me cracking up and their solutions made me laugh even more. Jane wrote every character in this book, even the minor supporting ones, so vividly and with so much personality that I had built up such strong pictures in my mind that it felt more like I was watching a film and could catch on to the characters and every detail about their image and temperament. Another favourite character of mine was Rich who was just inimitable (and I’m not sure I mean that in a good way).
The Love Shack is a light-hearted novel, a delight to read but it also has lots of depth to it and as the story transpires, you can see there’s much more to this book than a couple saving money for their dream home. Relationships need a lot of work to keep on track but family, friends, careers and memories have a big role in this book too and not every moment is a happy one. This was just the kind of book I’d been hoping to read though, one that made me think but not too much, more the kind of tonic to put a relentless smile on my face and cheer me up, as I’ve learnt Jane’s books are good at. The characters had so much to give which if I’m honest left me not wanting the book to end because this is another set of characters that I will still be thinking of long after I’ve finished the book. Jane has combined a wonderful range of one-liners, a creative and often crazy group of characters and a hectic, over-the-top yet purely romantic core and it worked like a treat. Another Jane Costello hit.
*Book received for an honest review
Before The Love Shack, I’d only ever read one Jane Costello book which was The Time Of Our Lives. I completely fell in love with Jane’s writing on my first read and even now, having read countless books from other brilliant authors since, The Time Of Our Lives is still one of my favourite books and I still think about the characters now. With that I knew I just had to read Jane’s next novel, and back catalogue and every book to come, and The Love Shack did not disappoint at all. Jane has this gorgeous style of writing that has you actually laughing out loud one minute then feeling so moved emotionally within the next page or so. What I loved about The Love Shack, which was evident from the two introductory chapters to main characters Dan and Gemma, is that this was a book written about two characters obviously genuinely madly in love with each other. It stood out straight away because a lot of women’s fiction is about a girl meeting a guy and then all the feelings and issues that come with the building of a relationship. But Dan and Gemma, their chemistry and love for each other rolled off the pages. They were both wonderfully vibrant, loved-up characters and even though you know that Jane is going to throw obstacle after obstacle in front of them, the characters and plot were so refreshing to read that even with the more tender moments, it was a book that left me feeling warm and happy and optimistic, every time I had to put it down.
Dan and Gemma have found their perfect home. It’s not actually perfect, there’s a mountain of work to be done on it, but it is perfect for them. Pebble Cottage. The issue is (or at least one of the several hundred issues is) that they cannot afford it, on their own, in any sense. I’m sure people who have been house hunting can relate that it can be a complete nightmare. Well poor Dan and Gemma do not fill you with much hope that that’s not the case, but they are both strong-willed and stubborn and decide that they can’t give up on Pebble Cottage. They have to buy it, even if that means giving up their current rented place and moving in with Dan’s mum, Belinda, until they can afford it. For the first half of the book, my jaw was aching so badly I can’t even explain, I was just laughing so much at the chaos that was living with Belinda. Dan’s mum was completely lovely but also completely mad. From her loud singing the wrong words to the strangest of songs, to her horrendous assassination of food (or cooking as she knows it), to her sexual innuendos which had me cringing and Dan desperately wanting to disappear, she was crazy but so much fun to read about. Jane wrote Belinda’s character so naturally funny that I could really picture this barmy woman doing everything that was described, even tucking her 29 year old son up in bed…
The Love Shack is told in alternate chapters between Dan and Gemma. I find it rare to read equally from a man’s perspective in women’s fiction, and especially not as realistically as Jane has done here. Dan’s voice really comes through and he is very believable. I loved his character and yes he did have me swooning but also laughing, a lot. He wasn’t too cheesy-romantic and over the top but at the same time, he wasn’t an overdone typical male character. I felt Jane portrayed him in such a great way in that you know he has those stereotypical male thoughts (the pain of creaky beds when you’re living with your girlfriend at your mum’s house…) but you can also find yourself falling head over heels with the romantic side to his character too. Dan was a witty character but so was Gemma and I really enjoyed her character too. She wasn’t perfect, she wasn’t always completely honest but she was thoughtful and caring and only ever wanted the best for everyone. Some of my favourite Gemma moments were at work where we see her relationships with Sebastian and Sadie. Some of the situations they found themselves in had me cracking up and their solutions made me laugh even more. Jane wrote every character in this book, even the minor supporting ones, so vividly and with so much personality that I had built up such strong pictures in my mind that it felt more like I was watching a film and could catch on to the characters and every detail about their image and temperament. Another favourite character of mine was Rich who was just inimitable (and I’m not sure I mean that in a good way).
The Love Shack is a light-hearted novel, a delight to read but it also has lots of depth to it and as the story transpires, you can see there’s much more to this book than a couple saving money for their dream home. Relationships need a lot of work to keep on track but family, friends, careers and memories have a big role in this book too and not every moment is a happy one. This was just the kind of book I’d been hoping to read though, one that made me think but not too much, more the kind of tonic to put a relentless smile on my face and cheer me up, as I’ve learnt Jane’s books are good at. The characters had so much to give which if I’m honest left me not wanting the book to end because this is another set of characters that I will still be thinking of long after I’ve finished the book. Jane has combined a wonderful range of one-liners, a creative and often crazy group of characters and a hectic, over-the-top yet purely romantic core and it worked like a treat. Another Jane Costello hit.
*Book received for an honest review
June 13, 2015
I loved this book. I've read several other books by Jane Costello, and found them fab, but for me The Love Shack has a lot extra. Great characters, set in a series of agonising, yet very believable situations, all springing effortlessly off the page. A page turner of a read, that sped via a twist or two, to a satisfyingly unexpected end. Brilliant writing, a tremendous book.
August 1, 2017
The only reason I gave this book 3 stars is because I loved Dan 😍
April 29, 2018
One of Jane's better work certainly. It has a feel good factor about it and just what you'd need from some light reading.
Recommended, specially as a vacation read!
Recommended, specially as a vacation read!
April 16, 2015
Thanks to Netgalley and Simon & Schuster for this review copy. This is my honest review.
The Love Shack is an entertaining story of Dan and Gemma attempting to purchase their first home together. After months of viewing completely unsuitable properties, they fall in love with Pebble Cottage. Just one small snag, it is slightly out of their price range, and the seller won't budge on the asking price.
So Gemma comes up with a solution, if they live thriftily, give up their flat and save every penny they can meet the asking price, so long as they also move in with Dan's mum. Dan although he has reservations, as after all, what 29 year old wants to move back in with his mum, agrees because he loves Gemma and wants her to have her dream house.
Dan's mum, Belinda is a larger than life character, her brain doesn't seem to filter anything she says, but she is letting the young love birds live there rent-free, until they get Pebble Cottage. It doesn't take too long for Gemma and Dan's patience is tried to the limit.
The Love Shack is like a comedy of errors. The scenes with Belinda are generally very funny, and the situation with how the house sale progresses is the stuff of nightmares. Add in, an ex boyfriend getting back in touch with Gemma, and you are suddenly wondering exactly who will end up with who, and if they will ever get their house.
There is a whole host of ancillary characters, and some sub-plots, my favourite of which involves Gemma's best friend Sadie, and their new boss. Also to watch out for is estate agent Rich, who is almost cringe-worthy with the way he talks.
The story is told from both Dan and Gemma's perspectives, alternating, but giving a continuous story. They pick up wherever the other leaves off, and this makes it feel as though they are telling the story together, perhaps sitting next to each on a couch, reminiscing.
The Love Shack is a very entertaining story, with a lovely voice to it. It is incredibly light hearted romantic comedy, and I loved reading it.
The Love Shack is an entertaining story of Dan and Gemma attempting to purchase their first home together. After months of viewing completely unsuitable properties, they fall in love with Pebble Cottage. Just one small snag, it is slightly out of their price range, and the seller won't budge on the asking price.
So Gemma comes up with a solution, if they live thriftily, give up their flat and save every penny they can meet the asking price, so long as they also move in with Dan's mum. Dan although he has reservations, as after all, what 29 year old wants to move back in with his mum, agrees because he loves Gemma and wants her to have her dream house.
Dan's mum, Belinda is a larger than life character, her brain doesn't seem to filter anything she says, but she is letting the young love birds live there rent-free, until they get Pebble Cottage. It doesn't take too long for Gemma and Dan's patience is tried to the limit.
The Love Shack is like a comedy of errors. The scenes with Belinda are generally very funny, and the situation with how the house sale progresses is the stuff of nightmares. Add in, an ex boyfriend getting back in touch with Gemma, and you are suddenly wondering exactly who will end up with who, and if they will ever get their house.
There is a whole host of ancillary characters, and some sub-plots, my favourite of which involves Gemma's best friend Sadie, and their new boss. Also to watch out for is estate agent Rich, who is almost cringe-worthy with the way he talks.
The story is told from both Dan and Gemma's perspectives, alternating, but giving a continuous story. They pick up wherever the other leaves off, and this makes it feel as though they are telling the story together, perhaps sitting next to each on a couch, reminiscing.
The Love Shack is a very entertaining story, with a lovely voice to it. It is incredibly light hearted romantic comedy, and I loved reading it.
May 5, 2015
There's really nothing nice you can say when you don't particularly like a book at all is there? I'm not one for putting someone's hard work down either, so I'll be as quick and easy as I can.
The Love Shack was far from my cup of tea. I found it plain, long and lacking in both interest and excitement. I'm a huge Jane Costello fan too so this has been a bit of a slap in the face for me.
Sorry Jane.
2/5
The Love Shack was far from my cup of tea. I found it plain, long and lacking in both interest and excitement. I'm a huge Jane Costello fan too so this has been a bit of a slap in the face for me.
Sorry Jane.
2/5
April 2, 2017
Fantastic read as always from Jane Costello. Some definite laugh out loud moments, some stop and make you think moments but an easy to read book to destress from the working day. When I say easy to read it is not meant to mean these books are not well written because they are. Jane just gets her point across well. Thanks again for a pleasurable few hours.
May 9, 2015
Brilliant laugh out loud book.
June 17, 2017
A good chick lit. Nice characters, a sweet story and enjoyable. Very easy listening and moved along nicely.
June 15, 2021
I've had some good laughs. But that's about it. I want my time and money back
October 22, 2022
Another really enjoyable book by Jane Costello. With just enough twists to make it believable whilst keeping you hooked .
April 29, 2015
Hooray! Jane Costello is back with a new book. This means two things to me...summer is coming, and I am in for a great feel good read. I haven't been disappointed on either. As I write this review the sun is shining, the birds are singing, and I have a big smile and feel all warm and happy after finishing The Love Shack.
The story focuses on Dan and Gemma, a young couple who have been searching for ages for their perfect home. Like for many of us, money is tight and the nicest houses are in the most expensive areas. Eventually they stumble across 'the one', but with money scarce they make the decision to move in with Dan's Mum for a while to try and save as much as possible. What can possibly go wrong? Hahaha....hmmmm....
My love of the book started with the front cover, screaming to me to pick it up and get reading. I absolutely love it. So pretty and inviting! Then there's the name. I've had the B52's going round in my head the last couple of days, even dancing around to it. As soon as I started reading I was engrossed!
I really like the concept of the storyline. A young couple in love, looking forward to building a home and future together. But as with most of us, money (or the lack of it) gets in the way. Moving in with Dan's Mum Belinda probably brings most people out in a cold sweat at the thought of either moving back in with their parents, or having to move in with the mother in law!!
Jane writes each chapter alternating between Dan and Gemma. This really appeals to me as it allows me as a reader to get into both of their heads and see where their views and feelings come from. I warmed to both Dan and Gemma early on and wanted to rush to the end to check whether they get their happy ending.
But my favourite character is Dan's Mum Belinda. Oh how I loved Belinda. She is the star of the book for me and had me laughing lots. She is not a conventional Mum by any stretch of the imagination. She can't cook, writes books saying that all men are bastards, and has no boundaries. But that's what makes her so brilliant and gives some real comedy. I love her, but can imagine Dan being embarrassed by her, or both Gemma and Dan being driven mad having to live with her on a daily basis. It would be wrong not to mention Dan's Grandma as well. She is so lovely and also funny. I would be happy to hang out with her.
It's not all fun and high jinks though. Life does change for Dan and Gemma, and becomes quite dull and more like reality. I felt for them so much. Normal life can be such a drag, and seeing it happen to someone else I felt myself wanting to talk to them and show them how easy it might be to keep the spark of fun alive. A mystery person from Gemma's past appears which brings a more serious aspect to the book, and risks ruining everything. As much as parts of the book were fun, this made me more frustrated at times, especially seeing the world through Dan's eyes too. I admit wanting to shake Gemma and tell her to cop on to herself.
I did really enjoy this book and flew through it. I could happily sit there and read Jane Costello books every day in the sunshine, and I intend to read her back catalogue over the summer. If you like a book that has romance, love, laughter, emotion, and dreaming about your happily ever after this could well be the book for you.
Thank you to the publishers who provided a copy in return for an honest review.
The story focuses on Dan and Gemma, a young couple who have been searching for ages for their perfect home. Like for many of us, money is tight and the nicest houses are in the most expensive areas. Eventually they stumble across 'the one', but with money scarce they make the decision to move in with Dan's Mum for a while to try and save as much as possible. What can possibly go wrong? Hahaha....hmmmm....
My love of the book started with the front cover, screaming to me to pick it up and get reading. I absolutely love it. So pretty and inviting! Then there's the name. I've had the B52's going round in my head the last couple of days, even dancing around to it. As soon as I started reading I was engrossed!
I really like the concept of the storyline. A young couple in love, looking forward to building a home and future together. But as with most of us, money (or the lack of it) gets in the way. Moving in with Dan's Mum Belinda probably brings most people out in a cold sweat at the thought of either moving back in with their parents, or having to move in with the mother in law!!
Jane writes each chapter alternating between Dan and Gemma. This really appeals to me as it allows me as a reader to get into both of their heads and see where their views and feelings come from. I warmed to both Dan and Gemma early on and wanted to rush to the end to check whether they get their happy ending.
But my favourite character is Dan's Mum Belinda. Oh how I loved Belinda. She is the star of the book for me and had me laughing lots. She is not a conventional Mum by any stretch of the imagination. She can't cook, writes books saying that all men are bastards, and has no boundaries. But that's what makes her so brilliant and gives some real comedy. I love her, but can imagine Dan being embarrassed by her, or both Gemma and Dan being driven mad having to live with her on a daily basis. It would be wrong not to mention Dan's Grandma as well. She is so lovely and also funny. I would be happy to hang out with her.
It's not all fun and high jinks though. Life does change for Dan and Gemma, and becomes quite dull and more like reality. I felt for them so much. Normal life can be such a drag, and seeing it happen to someone else I felt myself wanting to talk to them and show them how easy it might be to keep the spark of fun alive. A mystery person from Gemma's past appears which brings a more serious aspect to the book, and risks ruining everything. As much as parts of the book were fun, this made me more frustrated at times, especially seeing the world through Dan's eyes too. I admit wanting to shake Gemma and tell her to cop on to herself.
I did really enjoy this book and flew through it. I could happily sit there and read Jane Costello books every day in the sunshine, and I intend to read her back catalogue over the summer. If you like a book that has romance, love, laughter, emotion, and dreaming about your happily ever after this could well be the book for you.
Thank you to the publishers who provided a copy in return for an honest review.
May 26, 2019
To read my full review at mariesbookboutique.wordpress.com/2019...
As soon as I saw this front cover I fell in love... It's got a sweet and charming feel about it. The salmon pink backing is bright and eye catching. A little cottage in need of some TLC with a 'For Sale' singe in front of it and is situated at the top right hand side. A couple embracing each other with tool's poking out of their pockets. Under that the title is in white and in the word 'Love' the 'o' has a love heart in the canter, how cute is that? Then Jane's name is coloured in black and has a tin of paint with a paint brush sticking out! All in all I think this is a perfectly designed front cover.
In The Love Shack we meet Gemma and Dan two people madly in love. They've been dating for just over a year, sharing a rented flat. But now they think it's time to put their money into their own place, and want to buy. As they start their search for their dream pad, it soon becomes apparent that the house prices are well out of their reach. They both have job's Dan work's for a homeless charity and Gemma an advertising agency, but their wages aren't crazy amounts of money.
On realising this Gemma comes up with a plan to help them save for a deposit for when they find the right house and that is to move in with Dan's mother in the big converted barn; rent free! Not only that to sell their car for a cheaper one. Dan's not over joyed to be moving back home he is independent man; but like Gemma he can seen on other way.
Dan's mother is over joyed to have her son and his girlfriend as guests. But it soon becomes apparent her life and interfering could become a problem. Their plan is to stay their for 6 months, saving hard for their deposit; which Dan's mother has offered to pay and Dan refuses. Dan come's back with their new car; which is not what Gemma was expecting; it's rusty and back fires but needs must! Dan and Gemma soon find out that getting a single moment alone together is impossible what with his mother's kitchen Karaoke amongst other things!!!!
On one of their search's they come across Pebble cottage which instantly steels their hearts. It's in need of a lot of repairs but they are certain it's their dream home and are prepared the extra cash to secure it. Will Dan and Gemma ever get a moment to themselves? Will Gemma be able to deal with Dan's mother's interference? and will it put seeds of doughty into her mind? Can they save enough money in time? Will they be at Dan's mothers for longer than planed? Can Dan and Gemma's relationship cope with the stress? or will they lose the house and go their separate ways?
I have to say this book was a joy to read and I felt totally immersed in the story as it unfolded. It's has hilarious romance and has more than a few rocky moments. Dan's mother gave me more than a few giggles!!! And Dan and Gemma were characters you just fall in love with, they are relatable and real down to earth!
I have read a few of Jane's book's now and love her comical style of writing. What a talented lady!
The Love Shack is charming and a lovely easy read. It's defiantly a must read!!!!
As soon as I saw this front cover I fell in love... It's got a sweet and charming feel about it. The salmon pink backing is bright and eye catching. A little cottage in need of some TLC with a 'For Sale' singe in front of it and is situated at the top right hand side. A couple embracing each other with tool's poking out of their pockets. Under that the title is in white and in the word 'Love' the 'o' has a love heart in the canter, how cute is that? Then Jane's name is coloured in black and has a tin of paint with a paint brush sticking out! All in all I think this is a perfectly designed front cover.
In The Love Shack we meet Gemma and Dan two people madly in love. They've been dating for just over a year, sharing a rented flat. But now they think it's time to put their money into their own place, and want to buy. As they start their search for their dream pad, it soon becomes apparent that the house prices are well out of their reach. They both have job's Dan work's for a homeless charity and Gemma an advertising agency, but their wages aren't crazy amounts of money.
On realising this Gemma comes up with a plan to help them save for a deposit for when they find the right house and that is to move in with Dan's mother in the big converted barn; rent free! Not only that to sell their car for a cheaper one. Dan's not over joyed to be moving back home he is independent man; but like Gemma he can seen on other way.
Dan's mother is over joyed to have her son and his girlfriend as guests. But it soon becomes apparent her life and interfering could become a problem. Their plan is to stay their for 6 months, saving hard for their deposit; which Dan's mother has offered to pay and Dan refuses. Dan come's back with their new car; which is not what Gemma was expecting; it's rusty and back fires but needs must! Dan and Gemma soon find out that getting a single moment alone together is impossible what with his mother's kitchen Karaoke amongst other things!!!!
On one of their search's they come across Pebble cottage which instantly steels their hearts. It's in need of a lot of repairs but they are certain it's their dream home and are prepared the extra cash to secure it. Will Dan and Gemma ever get a moment to themselves? Will Gemma be able to deal with Dan's mother's interference? and will it put seeds of doughty into her mind? Can they save enough money in time? Will they be at Dan's mothers for longer than planed? Can Dan and Gemma's relationship cope with the stress? or will they lose the house and go their separate ways?
I have to say this book was a joy to read and I felt totally immersed in the story as it unfolded. It's has hilarious romance and has more than a few rocky moments. Dan's mother gave me more than a few giggles!!! And Dan and Gemma were characters you just fall in love with, they are relatable and real down to earth!
I have read a few of Jane's book's now and love her comical style of writing. What a talented lady!
The Love Shack is charming and a lovely easy read. It's defiantly a must read!!!!
April 25, 2015
I love Jane Costello's books, they all have humour and are very real at the same time. This latest is no exception. It is light and easy to read, I even managed to read this during the week while I have been working. This is good going for me as I am normally too tired and can only manage a couple of pages these days. This goes to show you what a fabulous and quick read this book is. The story just flows and is told incredibly well.
Gemma and Dan have been together for a while, they are currently living in rented accommodation and decide that the time has come to buy their first home together. As they begin to go to lots of viewings Gemma becomes a little disheartened. All the properties they visit are not suitable for them, they maybe within their budget but they are just not what Gemma and Dan are looking for. After many months of searching for the right place. Pebble Cottage comes on the market and Gemma and Dan love it. There is a slight problem and that is it is a little over budget. Gemma thinks that if they were to move in with Dan's mum, within a couple of months they would have enough money and would be able to make on offer. Dan is skeptical about this plan, but he can see this is what will make Gemma happy so agrees that this is the best option. But is it?
As someone who is married and currently lives at home with my husband and my parents I could completely connect to how Gemma and Dan were feeling at times. It is not always plain sailing but it can also work, as they found out. I think this is one of the reasons I enjoyed this book so much as small aspects of the living arrangements were so true and close to home.
I don't want to say too much about this book as I don't want to spoil it for anyone. It is a brilliant read this spring especially if you can relate to the story line. At times I was laughing out loud at Belinda's antics and I could feel sorry for Dan and Gemma. I just had to keep everything crossed that in the end they would all get what they wanted.
I loved the way the story was told from both Dan and Gemma's perspective and I think this gave the story more depth to it. I also loved the side stories with Dan's mother, Dan and his dad, Gemma and Alex and also Rich the estate agent. All characters were well developed and had their own personalities that shined through.
I cannot say too much as I really don't want to give it away but I don't think I can actually do this book justice with my review it is just one you have to read! I think this will become a firm favourite on your bookshelf, I know it will on mine.
I would like to thank the publisher for sending this in exchange for an honest review.
Gemma and Dan have been together for a while, they are currently living in rented accommodation and decide that the time has come to buy their first home together. As they begin to go to lots of viewings Gemma becomes a little disheartened. All the properties they visit are not suitable for them, they maybe within their budget but they are just not what Gemma and Dan are looking for. After many months of searching for the right place. Pebble Cottage comes on the market and Gemma and Dan love it. There is a slight problem and that is it is a little over budget. Gemma thinks that if they were to move in with Dan's mum, within a couple of months they would have enough money and would be able to make on offer. Dan is skeptical about this plan, but he can see this is what will make Gemma happy so agrees that this is the best option. But is it?
As someone who is married and currently lives at home with my husband and my parents I could completely connect to how Gemma and Dan were feeling at times. It is not always plain sailing but it can also work, as they found out. I think this is one of the reasons I enjoyed this book so much as small aspects of the living arrangements were so true and close to home.
I don't want to say too much about this book as I don't want to spoil it for anyone. It is a brilliant read this spring especially if you can relate to the story line. At times I was laughing out loud at Belinda's antics and I could feel sorry for Dan and Gemma. I just had to keep everything crossed that in the end they would all get what they wanted.
I loved the way the story was told from both Dan and Gemma's perspective and I think this gave the story more depth to it. I also loved the side stories with Dan's mother, Dan and his dad, Gemma and Alex and also Rich the estate agent. All characters were well developed and had their own personalities that shined through.
I cannot say too much as I really don't want to give it away but I don't think I can actually do this book justice with my review it is just one you have to read! I think this will become a firm favourite on your bookshelf, I know it will on mine.
I would like to thank the publisher for sending this in exchange for an honest review.
June 28, 2015
*Book provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
Oh look, it’s another Jane Costello book, yay!!! I love Jane’s books and her writing, so I couldn’t wait to dive into this one.
The story follows Dan and Gemma, a young couple who is looking for their perfect dream house, but that is not easy…
Everything is so expensive or just not what they want. They fall in love with Pebble Cottage and the only way they can come up with the deposit is selling everything and moving in with his mum. Dan is NOT thrilled and their everyday life changes dramatically. They don’t have any couple time and his mum has her drama as well.
On top of that Gemma’s past is going to haunt her, in form of her ex Alex. Let’s just say Gemma spends time with him and gets confused.
There are also issues about the cottage, connected to other people who are interested and the owners.
The Love Shack is a real test for Gemma and Dan’s relationship. They go through a lot and also get to know each other from a different side. It includes their careers, their love, their families and much more.
The storyline is gorgeous and cute. It’s written in alternate chapters, so we get to experience both Gemma’s and Dan’s feelings. I always love reading a story from a man’s perspective; it just gives you another insight.
Gemma and Dan are a great couple and wonderful characters. However, the character I loved most was Dan’s mum Belinda. She was so much fun to read about and she had her own story to tell. The thing that made me feel close to all characters was, that they were not perfect at all, so genuine and real.
Jane’s writing is great. Full of funny moments, although I have to say I didn’t have as many LOL moments as in Jane’s previous books. It’s a light-hearted, feel-good novel, combined with some deeper and soulful elements. Sometimes I wasn’t happy with Gemma and her actions and I felt that at times, the story didn’t really move, so I can only give 4 stars. It’s still a wonderful book, the catching spark was missing for me though.
Oh look, it’s another Jane Costello book, yay!!! I love Jane’s books and her writing, so I couldn’t wait to dive into this one.
The story follows Dan and Gemma, a young couple who is looking for their perfect dream house, but that is not easy…
Everything is so expensive or just not what they want. They fall in love with Pebble Cottage and the only way they can come up with the deposit is selling everything and moving in with his mum. Dan is NOT thrilled and their everyday life changes dramatically. They don’t have any couple time and his mum has her drama as well.
On top of that Gemma’s past is going to haunt her, in form of her ex Alex. Let’s just say Gemma spends time with him and gets confused.
There are also issues about the cottage, connected to other people who are interested and the owners.
The Love Shack is a real test for Gemma and Dan’s relationship. They go through a lot and also get to know each other from a different side. It includes their careers, their love, their families and much more.
The storyline is gorgeous and cute. It’s written in alternate chapters, so we get to experience both Gemma’s and Dan’s feelings. I always love reading a story from a man’s perspective; it just gives you another insight.
Gemma and Dan are a great couple and wonderful characters. However, the character I loved most was Dan’s mum Belinda. She was so much fun to read about and she had her own story to tell. The thing that made me feel close to all characters was, that they were not perfect at all, so genuine and real.
Jane’s writing is great. Full of funny moments, although I have to say I didn’t have as many LOL moments as in Jane’s previous books. It’s a light-hearted, feel-good novel, combined with some deeper and soulful elements. Sometimes I wasn’t happy with Gemma and her actions and I felt that at times, the story didn’t really move, so I can only give 4 stars. It’s still a wonderful book, the catching spark was missing for me though.
May 2, 2015
An excellent read of a couple called Dan and Gemma who decide they are going to buy a house together and have turned down loads over time and do they find the right house and the journey along the way. I light and enjoyable read and gets you hooked to find out what does happen with them.
June 8, 2015
What a wonderful, funny, uplifting and heartwarming story. One I found completely relatable and such an easy read I couldn't put it down.
January 10, 2016
Cute! and entertaining. For some reason I find Belinda really adorable as a mum. The romance b/w Dan and Gemma is so crude and realistic.
July 16, 2017
I love Jane Costello, and I enjoy (or have enjoyed) reading all her books, even those I've not rated very high. This book falls under the "not very highly rated" category and that is for a variety of reasons.
Although I found the book to be entertaining and enjoyable, and I did not put it down until I had read the whole thing in one day, I did find parts of it frustrating. Most of it pertained to the characters - mainly the female protagonist, Gemma. I found her to be unreasonable, dramatic and very selfish when it came to what she wanted and what she was asking of her boyfriend of 4 years.
SPOILERS AHEAD:
She was being very picky about every single house they saw together, and when she finally set her sights on a house, she was determined to have it come hell or high water. She selfishly asked her boyfriend to sell his flat and have them move in with his mother, and as the events unfold she continues to ask for more and more of him to the point where he gives up the job of his dreams in order to get a high paying job to afford this place she is obsessed with. Add to that the fact that for some silly reason, Costello decided to add more drama in there (like living with his mom wasn't enough drama), and brought back Gemma's first love to make things more complicated. Except, they didn't need to get complicated had Gemma been a decent human being, but of course, a few nice words from this random guy whom she hasn't seen in 20+ years, and a couple of arguments with Dan and she's off running into the other guy's arms for comfort. Ugh. Typical.
I was so disappointed at that turn of events. Her decisions and the sacrifices made for buying the house may have been bearable had it not been for the love triangle there, which just made me completely dislike her. Add to that the fact that she ends up NOT getting the house after all, after all they've given up for it. Sheesh.
On the other hand, Dan was everything a man should be. Understanding, compassionate, supportive, loving, funny and forgiving. He had his "not very nice" moments with his mother, but I find that completely natural given the circumstances and how intrusive his mother could be.
All of that being said, I really liked the side stories and secondary characters interwoven into the storyline and I enjoyed reading this book and found myself laughing out loud at certain moments. A very good and solid read that was exactly what I needed to get me out of my slump and back into the reading zone.
Although I found the book to be entertaining and enjoyable, and I did not put it down until I had read the whole thing in one day, I did find parts of it frustrating. Most of it pertained to the characters - mainly the female protagonist, Gemma. I found her to be unreasonable, dramatic and very selfish when it came to what she wanted and what she was asking of her boyfriend of 4 years.
SPOILERS AHEAD:
She was being very picky about every single house they saw together, and when she finally set her sights on a house, she was determined to have it come hell or high water. She selfishly asked her boyfriend to sell his flat and have them move in with his mother, and as the events unfold she continues to ask for more and more of him to the point where he gives up the job of his dreams in order to get a high paying job to afford this place she is obsessed with. Add to that the fact that for some silly reason, Costello decided to add more drama in there (like living with his mom wasn't enough drama), and brought back Gemma's first love to make things more complicated. Except, they didn't need to get complicated had Gemma been a decent human being, but of course, a few nice words from this random guy whom she hasn't seen in 20+ years, and a couple of arguments with Dan and she's off running into the other guy's arms for comfort. Ugh. Typical.
I was so disappointed at that turn of events. Her decisions and the sacrifices made for buying the house may have been bearable had it not been for the love triangle there, which just made me completely dislike her. Add to that the fact that she ends up NOT getting the house after all, after all they've given up for it. Sheesh.
On the other hand, Dan was everything a man should be. Understanding, compassionate, supportive, loving, funny and forgiving. He had his "not very nice" moments with his mother, but I find that completely natural given the circumstances and how intrusive his mother could be.
All of that being said, I really liked the side stories and secondary characters interwoven into the storyline and I enjoyed reading this book and found myself laughing out loud at certain moments. A very good and solid read that was exactly what I needed to get me out of my slump and back into the reading zone.
November 17, 2018
Frykta at dette skulle vere ei fjasete og overflatisk roman med "framtvungen" og overdreven humor. Heldigvis var frykten heilt unødig. Dette er det eg vil kalle lettlest og feel-good. Ikkje noko litterært meisterverk, ikkje veldig djupt og filosofisk, ikkje ei bok som vil endre deg som menneske. Nettopp det gjer at ho er ei perfekt roman å ta fram for rett og slett å berre kose seg! Karakterane er truverdige (dog ei lita smule eksentriske, nokre av dei, litt meir så enn kva som er enkelt å tru på, men det fungerte fint i denne boka), plottet er realistisk nok. Språket er lett og flytande, utan unødige og lange skildringar. Forteller perspektivet bytter mellom dei to hovudkarakterane og det fungerer fint. Usikker på. Om eg ville gje 3 eller 4 stjerner men.når eg ser denne boka og samenliknar ho med andre bøker i same "stil" /sjangar, så er dette blant dei bedre av sitt slag. Så dei tre stjernene er sterke og glitrande og blir kanskje endra til 4.etter kvart... For eg har kosa meg med denne boka. Samstundes er det ikkje ei bok eg vil hugse særleg lenge eller.som gjorde varig inntrykk. Men igjen... Det er nok heller ikkje meininga... Så.. Kanskje. Må d bli fire likevel?
Kort sagt om handlinga - eit kjærastepar i sluten av tjueåra flytter heim til mor for å bu der mens dei sparar opp nok pengar til å kjøpe huset dei har sett seg ut. Å bu heime hos mor byr på ein del utfordringar både. Mtp logistikk, samliv og slike ting, men også mtp økonomiske problem og kjensler kring dette. Heldigvis er ikkje dette ei "svigermor-monster" framstilling og det finnst eit fint utval av herlege episodar mellom svigermor og svigerdotter
Les denne om du vil smile, Le, drøyme deg vekk, kjenne på litt sukkersøte kjensler
Kort sagt om handlinga - eit kjærastepar i sluten av tjueåra flytter heim til mor for å bu der mens dei sparar opp nok pengar til å kjøpe huset dei har sett seg ut. Å bu heime hos mor byr på ein del utfordringar både. Mtp logistikk, samliv og slike ting, men også mtp økonomiske problem og kjensler kring dette. Heldigvis er ikkje dette ei "svigermor-monster" framstilling og det finnst eit fint utval av herlege episodar mellom svigermor og svigerdotter
Les denne om du vil smile, Le, drøyme deg vekk, kjenne på litt sukkersøte kjensler
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