Out of Office: A BRAND NEW rom-com of unexpected love, secrets and second chances from Phoebe MacLeod for 2026

by Phoebe MacLeod

The BRAND NEW laugh-out-loud, romantic read from the author of TOP TEN bestseller The Fixer-Upper, Phoebe MacLeodAthena’s rule is men are unreliable, untrustworthy, and best admired from a safe distance.

And with her career to focus on, it's a rule she’s perfectly happy sticking to – much to her mother’s dismay.

Until work sends her to Cape Town, and she meets charming, thoughtful, and dangerously attentive. Suddenly, Athena’s long-held decree feels… negotiable.

But Nathan’s past may not be as spotless as it seems, and Athena starts to wonder if her instincts were right all along. The problem is, by the time the warning signs appear, she’s already falling for him.

Should Athena risk her carefully curated world for love – or will her heart pay the price?

Praise for Phoebe

‘The perfect book.’ Goodreads review

‘This book fundamentally changed me and now I need to read every romcom I can get my claws on! I giggled, I almost threw my book, I kicked my little feet, and I finished it basically in one sitting … what more could you ask for?’ Goodreads review

‘MacLeod weaves a tale of unexpected love, second chances, and the magic of warm summer days.’ Goodreads review

‘Phoebe Macleod writes easy to ready, sweet but not shallow books. She has a lovely writing style and she’s the sort of author that I feel safe with, that I know I’m probably going to love pretty much anything she writes - one of the finish-a-book-and-buy-one-straight-after-on-kindle kinda vibes!‘ Goodreads review

‘I love when a book can make me LOL in real life the whole time. This was such a fun rom-com and a safe one for people who like books without all the spice.’ Goodreads review

‘This is a delightfully sweet and charming romantic comedy with a grumpy/sunshine trope (one of my favorites!)’ Goodreads review

‘It's a very light, feelgood read and certainly put a smile on my face.’ Goodreads review

‘A cute rom-com that focuses on friendship and different types of relationships, not just romance. I loved it, the characters are messy and complex as in real life.’ Goodreads review

Genres: Audiobook, Contemporary, Rom Com, Romance

Audible Audio

Published October 31, 2026

About the author

Phoebe MacLeod is married and lives just outside Sevenoaks in Kent. She has two grown-up sons at university, and a disobedient dog. She enjoys reading, cooking, playing the piano and walking the dog. She’s also keen on vintage and classic cars and can often be seen behind the wheel of her own classic - a 1928 Ford Model A.

Reviews

[Alison McIntyre · Rating 3.75 out of 5]

I hadn’t read anything by this author but I was still sad to hear that this was her last book before she died. She created some lovely characters and it was a nice unique story.

Athena and Nathan both happened to meet one another on a business trip to Cape Town. They were both staying in the same apartment building and ended up starting a friendship that eventually lead to more.

Honestly, my favourite part was at the beginning when Athena was at a work conference and they were playing corporate bingo and talking about how many head managers they have had over the years. Hard relate to that one.

Athena then accidentally dies her hair silver to try and win the costume competition and it doesn’t wash out so that look follows her to South Africa.

Another good, yet sad, part of this is when Athena reveals a past trauma to Nathan and how that has affected her. Especially since she accidentally fell asleep in his room one night after drinking too many wines. Both characters handled that revelation well.

And Nathan’s past coercive control relationship was described well too.

There is a third act break up but that’s down to a miscommunication which eventually gets fixed. I just want to know how long it took the ex to move out!

Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC to this one.

[Kaye · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my second Phoebe Macleod book, and I’m honestly a little sad knowing that Out of Office was her final book before her passing. There’s something bittersweet about reading a final work from an author you’ve just discovered.

I really liked the way this was written. It’s snappy, witty, and easy to fly through, and the banter was definitely one of my favorite parts. The third-act twist also caught me by surprise! Well… sort of. 😂 I had a feeling I knew where the story was going, and unfortunately, I was right.

My main issue was the romance. I didn’t quite feel the relationship building enough before we suddenly got hit with the third-act conflict. And while I can tolerate some miscommunication, this particular one frustrated me. The eventual reconciliation also felt a little anticlimactic and rushed, especially after all the buildup to the conflict. I wanted a little more romance, emotional payoff, and oomph from that resolution.

Still, I enjoyed the overall reading experience, especially the writing and banter. It’s not a perfect romance for me, but there was enough charm here to make it a solid 4-star read—and definitely one that feels a little more bittersweet knowing it was her last.

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC!

[Morebooksthanx · Rating 3.5 out of 5]

Athena is a corporate success, she’s proud of her cute little home and jet sets the world as a consultant. From Athena’s family dynamics, her sister’s wedding and her cynical outtake on life. I just knew something good was waiting for her. When she met Nathan in Cape Town and their friendship developed it was so sweet. Exploring vineyards and swimming with the sharks, I was glad to be along for the ride. I enjoyed this light hearted book and it was such an easy read. Whilst I don’t enjoy a miscommunication trope, thankfully this one didn’t bother me as much.

Thank you to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this eARC. I think Phoebe’s editor was able to do such a special thing to get this book out for there for the world to enjoy (and in Phoebe’s honour).

[Dawn · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC from NetGalley

This is my first Phoebe MacLeod book - I really liked the characters and the plot. The corporate jargon and interactions were also pretty entertaining. The chemistry between the main characters was great.
I usually feel really immersed in books I read or listen to, but for some reason I couldn’t get there with this one. Although Athena’s attraction for Nathan was clear on the page, I didn’t feel the pining and the yearning from either of them. It could just be lost in translation for me. I’m in the US reading an English book by an English author and the main characters are in Cape Town for a bulk of the story.

In all I liked this story and the characters.

👩🏻‍🦳💒🍷🛫🇿🇦☕️👨🏻‍💼🦈🛬💒🥰💙🩶
📱eBook- ARC from NetGalley

[Virginia Shea · Rating 5 out of 5]

A charming and entertaining romantic comedy filled with unexpected romance and lovable characters. I enjoyed Phoebe MacLeod’s lighthearted writing, humor, and the sweet message of taking chances on love! 🥹💌

[Page Escapes by J · Rating 4 out of 5]

A career-focused heroine, an unexpected romance, and a trip to Cape Town that turns out to be about much more than work.

There is something I particularly enjoy about romances featuring women who are perfectly content with their lives and aren’t necessarily looking for someone to complete them. Athena is exactly that kind of heroine.

She has her priorities straight, a career to focus on, and a rather firm opinion about men: they’re unreliable, untrustworthy, and generally best appreciated from a distance. Honestly, I found this starting point quite refreshing.

When work sends Athena to Cape Town, however, things begin to change. Enter Nathan, who seems to be everything she has convinced herself men aren’t: charming, thoughtful and attentive. What starts as an unexpected acquaintance gradually develops into something more, leaving Athena questioning whether her carefully established rules are really serving her or simply keeping her from taking emotional risks.

What I found particularly interesting about the premise is the tension between independence and vulnerability.

Athena isn’t simply a woman waiting to fall in love. She has built a life around her career and her own expectations, and allowing someone into that life means making herself vulnerable in ways she might not be entirely comfortable with.

I also liked that the romance isn’t presented as an uncomplicated journey. Nathan comes with his own history, and the suggestion that there may be more to him than initially meets the eye adds an element of uncertainty to the relationship. Athena’s instincts are constantly in the background, making the reader wonder whether she is being overly cautious or whether there really is something worth worrying about.

Nathan is an interesting romantic counterpart because his attentiveness and charm challenge Athena’s assumptions. Their dynamic has the potential for some lovely romantic moments, particularly as Athena gradually lets her guard down. I also appreciated the idea of having two people with different emotional starting points navigate the possibility of a relationship.

The Cape Town setting is another highlight.

I love when a contemporary romance gives its characters somewhere interesting to go beyond the usual office, apartment and restaurant settings. Athena’s work assignment provides a natural reason for her to be somewhere unfamiliar, and the contrast between her professional responsibilities and the experiences she has outside work gives the story an enjoyable backdrop.

The work-related storyline also adds something to Athena’s character beyond her romantic life. She’s a career-focused woman, and I like that her professional identity is part of the setup rather than simply an afterthought.

As for the pacing, this looks to be a fairly breezy contemporary romance, with a straightforward premise and a developing relationship at its centre. The story has the ingredients of an easy-to-get-into read: an independent heroine, an appealing love interest, an unfamiliar setting and the inevitable complications that arise when feelings become involved.

The central conflict surrounding Nathan’s past also gives the romance a little more substance than a simple meet-cute followed by a happily-ever-after. I would have liked the emotional consequences of Athena’s doubts and the trust between the characters to receive plenty of room to develop, because that’s where I think this particular premise has the most potential.

One aspect I especially appreciate is the underlying question of whether protecting yourself from disappointment can sometimes mean protecting yourself from happiness, too. Athena’s perspective makes for an interesting exploration of that idea without requiring the heroine to abandon her independence in order to find love.

Overall, Out of Office brings together several elements I enjoy in contemporary romance: a career-driven heroine, an unexpected connection, a beautiful travel setting and a relationship complicated by secrets and uncertainty.

It’s a promising choice for readers looking for a light romantic escape with a little emotional tension along the way.

Sometimes the best things happen when we finally step outside the carefully planned lives we’ve created for ourselves.

[Flávia Torres · Rating 3 out of 5]

First of all, I would like to thank NetGalley for the advance copy and for the privilege of reading Phoebe McLeod’s final work. Knowing that this is her last book makes the experience especially meaningful. It warmed my heart to think about the power of writing to carry us through life’s adversities and allow a part of us to live on through our words. My heartfelt condolences go out to her family and loved ones.

This book tells the story of Athena, a thirty-year-old woman who is career-focused and carries some baggage from her past. I particularly appreciated the way her experience of abuse was portrayed. I found parts of her story personally relatable, and I can imagine that her journey may resonate with other readers as well.

What worked well for me was the flow of the story. The writing felt natural, almost as if the protagonist were telling the story of her life to a friend. It was an easy, light, and enjoyable read, a good book for when you want to unwind and have fun reading. It is perfect for recreational reading. If, like me, you are looking for books to keep you away from social media, this one is a good choice!

What bothered me was the inconsistency in the story itself. Some threads were introduced and never resolved, while others seemed irrelevant to the story.

For example, the conversation with her sister’s father-in-law during her sister’s wedding took up a considerable amount of space in the book but, in my opinion, had no real relevance to the story. Later, this same scene made me question Athena’s attitude towards Nathan during the final conflict even more, because there were several instances throughout the book in which she patiently listened to men talking nonsense. When her first kiss told her about how awful he was, she listened to him and even danced with him afterward. These moments struck me as inconsistencies in the character’s construction, given the contradictions, rather than as flaws in her personality or signs that she was meant to be a controversial character. This kind of inconsistency detracts from the depth of the story, but as I mentioned, this was a light, recreational read, and we are not always looking for something particularly deep.

I must admit that, as someone who was also born in a “third-world” country (I’m Brazilian), I was uncomfortable with the way South Africa was portrayed. I found it somewhat stereotypical and in poor taste to keep emphasizing violence without any real purpose in the story, other than to create an opportunity for the male character to reinforce traditional gender roles by “saving” her and accompanying her on her morning runs.

Aside from these problematic aspects, there were a few other issues that I have also seen mentioned in other reviews. Still, the story engaged me enough to make me curious about what would happen next. It kept me turning the pages, and I ended up reading it very quickly! Despite my reservations, I’m glad I had the chance to read this book, and I hope it finds its way into the hands of readers who will connect with Athena’s story and enjoy the journey.

[Kristen Livingston · Rating 2.5 out of 5]

First off, I want to say it is an honor to read and review the final book this author wrote before passing away. Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to read this advanced copy.

Out of Office follows the story of Athena, who is a corporate consultant. While everyone around her seems to be happily in love, she has seemingly written off the idea of a relationship, and is instead focused on her career. That is, until she finds herself on a business trip to South Africa where she meets a potential love interest. Things don't always go as expected, and we see Phoebe struggle with her past and the way it has shaped her expectations and perceptions.

This story was a cute concept, and at times was very engaging. That being said, I had a few issues with the pacing. Some portions had lots of details, while other parts were just quickly glossed over. Transitions were also sometimes choppy. There was also at least one continuity issue I noticed. (This may have be caught in the final editing process, since my copy is an ARC.) The writing style itself was easy to read and follow, which I did appreciate.

As for the main character, I found myself frustrated with some of her choices. I found it hard to relate to how she handled the main conflict. While being annoyed at a character does not instantly ruin a book for me, I think her growth was lacking. She never had enough self awareness to consider a different side to the story. I wish there had been more insight surrounding her assumptions and actions. There also wasn't much depth to the resolution. Ultimately, the conclusion seemed like a very rushed happily ever after.

One idea that rubbed me the wrong way was her the sudden need to lie about her sexuality just to hide her feelings from her parents. It seemed a bit random and unnecessary, and maybe even slightly offensive since she was just falsely presenting herself as queer.

While it was not a stand out read, it was not the worst book ever. A couple of things I did like include how this book framed the conversations about victims of sexual assault and the aftermath. I appreciated Athena's good friend who challenged her to see a different perspective. I liked having a glimpse inside the corporate world without it overriding the entire story. I appreciated the relationship that was slowly built up over time and conversation, rather than just an immediate passionate romance.

My rating is 2.5 stars out of 5

[paperbackotter · Rating 2.5 out of 5]

Thank you Netgalley for an ARC of Out of Office by Phoebe MacLeod in exchange for an honest review.

Less rom-com, more emotional recovery. Out of Office by Phoebe MacLeod focuses her story more on healing trauma and building trust than sparks flying due to new love…which took me by surprise as I judged this book by its cover.

Athena is a focused corporate consultant. Though her friends and family are swept up in finding love, she views a partner as optional to an already full life. However, when on a work trip to Cape Cod, she meets Nathan, a communication consultant who is there on business. Establishing a friends only relationship, they begin to explore Cape Cod together: jogging, shark diving, exploring wineries, sharing meals. At this juncture in the novel, I enjoyed the witty back and forth banter and the developing relationship of the two main characters.

While Athena’s hesitation to enter a romantic relationship due to past trauma is deeply valid —and an exploration I appreciated— it is at this point where the narrative stumbles. She trusts Nathan with her secrets and he reacts with empathy and understanding, but when he asks for the same respect while sharing his past trauma, she does not listen to the whole story and shuts him down and out. Miscommunication is a staple of the rom-com genre, but here it crosses into bitterness and rigid obstinacy, resolving into an unforgivable conflict before all the facts are even on the table.

The pacing drags in her rumination and processing of the past would benefit from a faster shift toward learning the whole truth and shifting toward a desire to risk it all again. After too many pages when the story does shift, it is too abrupt. The sudden reversal in feelings feels like whiplash. She has gone months without seeing Nathan and stewing in her emotions; but, resolves her feelings for Nathan within moments and wants to reestablish their relationship literally within a 24 hour period. The ending is more fairy tale than reality – not that rom-coms deal in reality, but still. It all happens too swiftly. I wanted there to be more to their ending, their reconnection.

Overall, Out of Office by Phoebe MacLeod was a solid narrative, but the pacing suffered as it lingered too long on the resentment of misunderstandings.

[Pri’s Picks · Rating 2.5 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.

⭐⭐1/2
☕️ The Tea: A career-focused heroine, some complicated themes, and a romance that was hard to connect to, even though I wanted to.

First, my heartfelt condolences to the author’s family and loved ones following their unexpected passing before the book’s release.

I really appreciated the focus on Athena’s career and the strong female characters woven into that storyline. It was refreshing to see a heroine with ambitions and priorities beyond her romantic life, and I wish more of that strength had carried over into the romance itself.

Unfortunately, the relationship between Athena and Nathan struggled to convince me. By around 35% into the book, they had shared relatively few meaningful conversations, making it difficult to understand the foundation of their connection. Some later developments, including the fake dating scene toward the end, felt a little contrived rather than unfolding naturally from the characters and their established relationships. The ending also felt rushed, with major developments happening so quickly that I wanted more time for the story and its characters to breathe.

I also found some of the dialogue and characterizations difficult to connect with. There were some jabs and moments, coming from a variety of characters, that often felt more distracting than revealing.

There were also a few plot points that didn’t quite work for me, including Athena’s approach to discussing queerness with her parents. I understood the intention behind the scene, particularly her desire to gauge their openness before sharing something difficult, but the execution felt out of place within the larger story.

One element I did appreciate was the handling of the SA storyline. It’s a difficult subject to incorporate into a romance, and I thought this aspect was approached with care compared with some of the other narrative choices.

Ultimately, there were elements here that I wanted to connect with, especially Athena’s professional ambitions and the exploration of heavier themes. However, the romance, dialogue, and pacing didn’t quite come together for me, leaving this as a two-star read.

[Heidi Lengenfelder · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sometimes the biggest risk isn't falling in love—it's trusting someone enough to let them in.

Phoebe MacLeod's *Out of Office* takes readers on a romantic escape to Cape Town, where a woman who has built her life around independence discovers that even the most carefully guarded heart isn't immune to a little unexpected romance.

Athena has her priorities straight: focus on her career, maintain her independence, and keep men at a comfortable distance. She's convinced that relationships bring more trouble than they're worth, and she's perfectly content with that arrangement. But when a work trip takes her to Cape Town, she meets Nathan, a charming and attentive man who makes her question everything she thought she knew about love.

What makes this story appealing is the tension between wanting to protect yourself and wanting to take a chance on something wonderful. Athena's reluctance to trust feels understandable, especially when Nathan's past raises questions about whether he's truly the man he appears to be. Their developing connection introduces a compelling question: how do you know when to listen to your instincts and when to let your guard down?

The Cape Town setting adds an extra layer of escapism, providing a refreshing backdrop for a romance about vulnerability, trust, and stepping outside your comfort zone. I also appreciate the idea of a heroine who has created a fulfilling life on her own and isn't necessarily looking for someone to complete it.

At its heart, *Out of Office* explores the uncertainty that comes with opening yourself up to love. It's about learning that independence and vulnerability don't have to be mutually exclusive, and that sometimes the hardest part of falling in love is deciding whether someone deserves your trust.

For readers who enjoy contemporary romances featuring independent heroines, unexpected connections, emotional complications, and beautiful destinations, *Out of Office* offers an intriguing combination of romance and self-discovery.

Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Maanya Rathore · Rating 3 out of 5]

ARC Review | Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books!

This was my first Phoebe MacLeod book, and I have to say, her writing was such an easy one to settle into. The humour, the banter, the little moments that made me smile... I can see why readers enjoy her writing! It has that light, soft quality that makes you want to keep turning pages without much efforts.

Athena, the FMC is such an interesting character. She's ambitious, has her own career, and isn't sitting around waiting for romance to give her life a purpose. WE LOVE A WOMAN WITH HER OWN THING GOING ON. YOU GO GIRL🫶🏻 And I liked that her story had more to HER OWN SELF than just her love life, with family dynamics and friendships adding their own little complications to the mix.

Now, Nathan. Our dear MMC. NGL, I was very intrigued by the idea of a man whose professional life revolves around communication but who doesn't necessarily have everything figured out when it comes to his personal life. The potential was THERE, okay?! Their bond, the chemistry, the dynamics, they were going good. (Yes there's a "but")

But you know what this romance girlie wanted? MORE.

More time with the two of them. More conversations that make you kick your feet. More of those tiny moments where you realise a character has quietly become someone's favourite person. I wanted to feel that connection growing, not just know that it was supposed to be there. And when a conflict arrives, I need the emotional aftermath to hit me right in the chest. I am here for the DRAMA, but I also need the payoff! 😭

The story had a lot of potential but pacing didn't always work for me. Some parts felt like they could have used a little more breathing room, especially towards the end. I wanted to spend longer with these characters and feel a little more of their journey before reaching the finish line.

Still, I enjoyed the writing, the humour, and getting to know an author whose work was new to me. Sometimes a book can be enjoyable without becoming your next personality trait. 😂

[Selina · Rating 2.75 out of 5]

This one was cute, but I have to admit, it left me a little frustrated!

I really liked the concept, and Athena was an interesting character right from the start. She's independent, successful, and has pretty much decided that love isn't worth the trouble. Throw in a work trip to South Africa, a charming man named Nathan, and some beautiful scenery, and you've got all the ingredients for a fun romance!

Unfortunately, the pacing was a little off for me. By the time I was 40% into the book, I felt like we had barely scratched the surface of their relationship. I kept waiting for that connection to really develop, and while there were some sweet moments and fun banter, I wanted a little more chemistry and romance.

And then things went sideways.

I can handle a little miscommunication in my romances, but this one really tested me. Athena is so quick to jump to conclusions that she doesn't even give Nathan the opportunity to finish telling his own story! Especially after he had been so understanding of her past. I found myself wanting to reach into the book, grab her by the shoulders, and tell her to JUST LET THE MAN TALK!

What made it more frustrating was how quickly everything wrapped up afterward. We spent so much time getting to the conflict, only for the resolution to feel rushed. I wanted more growth from Athena, more conversation between them, and a little more emotional payoff.

That being said, I did enjoy the humor, the South African setting, and Nathan was genuinely a sweetheart. It's an easy read with some charming moments, but I think I wanted a little more from the romance itself.

Overall, a cute story that had plenty of potential, but the slow buildup, frustrating miscommunication, and quick resolution kept it from being a favorite.

[_boundbytales · Rating 3.5 out of 5]

╰► 3.5/5 ⭐️

Out of Office:

Thank you to NetGalley and Bookwood Books for offering me an Advanced Reader Copy of Out of Office by Phoebe MacLeod in exchange for an honest review.

This was my first impression of Phoebe MacLeod's work, and wow was I impressed. I absolutely love her writing style. It is quirky, effortlessly funny, and incredibly easy to follow, which made reading Out of Office such an enjoyable and funny read.

Maybe it's the fact I work in an office that made me giggle at half the personalities in this story (I have definitely experienced said personalities in real life), or the fact that every interaction felt real and genuine (especially Athena's family dynamics), but I would highly recommend Out of Office to anyone who wants a light hearted rom com to brighten your week.

The book is packed with side characters who earn their spot on the page, dialogue that genuinely has you laughing out loud, and a very slow romance sprinkled in the pages. I loved how supportive Nathan was, loved how they slowly got to know each other, and you really dive right into Athena's life and are along for the journey. The only reason I rated this book what I did was because of how quickly the story moved from when Athena returns home. I feel the "coming back together moment" needed more time to build up before that ending. Even the build up to the wedding felt rushed. Besides that last 25% of the book feeling so rushed, I really enjoyed this story and would love to read more of Phoebe MacLeod's work in the future.


My rating system:
⭐️: Not my vibe at all.
⭐️⭐️: I finished it, but I didn't have a good time.
⭐️⭐️⭐️: Yeah, that was fun. I enjoyed myself. I probably won't reread it, but it was fun.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️: I loved it and want to read more from this author.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️: Perfect, amazing, everything I love in a novel!

[sarahsfavereads · Rating 3.5 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️/5

Thank you to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.

This is the first book I’ve read by Phoebe MacLeod, and it feels especially poignant knowing that she passed away before its completion. Thank you to Phoebe’s editor for completing the final revisions and helping bring this book to publication.

This was such an enjoyable read, and I flew through it in just a few days! I loved the writing style and found myself easily drawn into the story. The characters were well-developed, and I particularly enjoyed Athena’s family dynamic.

The relationship between Athena and Nathan was really sweet and funny, and it was lovely to see them grow closer throughout the story. They had so many cute moments, including the oddly niche microtrope of pretending to date in front of tourists while on holiday. 😂 Nathan was a great love interest, he reminded me of the leading man from early 2000s rom-coms, so I can absolutely understand why Athena fell for him so quickly!

I don’t mind the miscommunication trope, but in this case, without giving away any spoilers, I felt a little confused by it because I didn’t feel it quite aligned with the characters’ personalities. I also felt their reconciliation was a little rushed, leaving me wishing I got to read more of them as a couple.

Overall, I had a great time reading Out of Office and definitely plan to read more of Phoebe’s books!

[Ailen Santos · Rating 4 out of 5]

Spoiler alert!
First of all, thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for letting me read this ARC.
That said, I was heartbroken to read that Phoebe MacLeod recently passed away. To be honest, this was my first book of hers; I finished it feeling happy because it’s such a lovely story, yet devastated by the news. I love that the publisher released her final book—it feels like a beautiful tribute to her.

As for the book itself: I really liked Athena (the protagonist). I would have liked to see her set more boundaries regarding her mother’s comments, though the dynamic with her father helped offset the constant criticism from her mom. It showed that while the main character had a fraught relationship with her mother, she still had a support system (her father and sister).

I really liked how Nathan was written—specifically the realization that, even though his job is all about "communication," he struggled with it in his personal life. Let’s be honest: if he had addressed the issue right from the start instead of waiting until the whole story had unfolded, both Athena and the reader would have understood his situation much sooner.
Overall, it’s a lovely book; I had fun, laughed, and even got angry at some of the characters.

I’m definitely going to give Phoebe’s other books a chance.

[Elizabeth · Rating 3 out of 5]

Out of Office by Phoebe MacLeod was a cute, lighthearted escape filled with quirky moments, romantic possibilities, and just enough uncertainty to keep things interesting.

I particularly enjoyed the effortless pacing and engaging writing style. There was something refreshing about stepping away from the everyday routine and following Athena as she navigated unfamiliar surroundings, unexpected feelings, and the possibility of letting someone into her carefully structured life.

While the storyline was fairly predictable, I didn't necessarily mind. Sometimes I'm simply in the mood for a charming, uncomplicated romance that doesn't demand too much and allows me to enjoy the journey. This was one of those reads.

Admittedly, the main characters never completely won me over, and I would have loved to feel a stronger connection to their relationship. Still, the playful tone, pleasant setting, and smooth storytelling made up for some of what I felt was missing.

Overall, this was an entertaining, easygoing read that delivered exactly the kind of gentle escapism I occasionally crave. Not every romance needs to sweep me off my feet to be enjoyable, and Out of Office was a lovely reminder of that.

A sweet, breezy romantic escape that's perfect when you're in the mood for something light, cheerful, and delightfully uncomplicated.

[Reda · Rating 3.25 out of 5]

First let me just say it was an honor to read Phoebe MacLeod's final book, and it's clear to me that a lot of care was taken by her team in producing the final product.

Having said that, although I enjoyed Out of Office, it wasn't my favorite of her books. The story follows workaholic Athena--always straining against more domestic familial expectations--on a work assignment to South Africa where she meets Nathan--a man with his own baggage--and the two form an unlikely friendship. LOTS of shop talk in this one, but ironically enough, not a lot of grounding in place and time. There's also LOTS of miscommunication, mostly because Athena seems to not listen to people (a lot) and jump to conclusions (a lot). For someone frequently judged by her family, she's very judgey.

The books deals with some pretty sensitive topics in a deft way, and they're woven into the story in a way that makes them feel naturally occurring. Honestly, I wish the rest of the narrative had felt so fluid. And less vanilla. And less corporate. What stuck out like a sore thumb: a white woman visiting South Africa and talking extensively about being afraid of the people outside her hotel, but also complaining about the lack of diversity in the establishments she visits? Hm...

Many thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an ARC in exchange for my honest assessment of this work.

[Melissa · Rating 3.5 out of 5]

Out of Office by Phoebe MacLeod 💻💗

A career-focused heroine, complicated themes, and a romance that’s less about sparks flying and more about emotional recovery and learning to trust again.

Out of Office focuses more on healing trauma and building trust than on the typical rom-com butterflies, and honestly, I appreciated that. Athena is such an interesting character. She’s ambitious, has her own career, and isn’t sitting around waiting for romance to give her life a purpose.

I also liked that her story was about MORE than just her love life. The family dynamics and friendships added their own layers of complexity, making her journey feel more personal and well-rounded.

As for Nathan, I was really intrigued by the idea of a man whose professional life revolves around communication but who doesn’t necessarily have right words when it comes to his personal life.

My one little complaint? The make-up scene at the end felt a bit rushed. I would’ve loved a little more time for everything to unfold and for the emotional resolution to feel more earned.

Overall, though, I enjoyed this book! It had more emotional depth than I initially expected, with a heroine whose story extends beyond romance and a relationship built around trust and healing.

Thank you NetGalley for the ARC. I was sad to read that this was the author's last book before she past.

[Kaylee Hermann · Rating 3.5 out of 5]

A cute little rom-com with a little more drama than I was expecting!

Athena is very much in her "men are unreliable and I don't need one" era. She's focused on her career, perfectly happy keeping men at a distance, and not exactly looking to have her life turned upside down. That is, until a work trip to Cape Town introduces her to Nathan.

Nathan is charming, thoughtful, and seems to be everything Athena would normally try to avoid admitting she wants. But, of course, things aren't quite as straightforward as they seem. The more Athena gets to know him, the more questions come up, and we're left wondering whether he's actually the good guy he presents himself to be or whether Athena's instincts were right all along.

One thing I really enjoyed was the fake pregnancy storyline! I honestly don't think I've come across that particular trope in many books I've read, and I thought it was such a fun addition to the story. It definitely added another layer of drama and made things a little more entertaining. I love when an author throws in something unexpected that I haven't seen a million times before.

I also enjoyed the Cape Town setting and watching Athena navigate her feelings while trying to figure out what was actually going on with Nathan. It was a fun mix of romance, humor, and secrets.

[Firetruckmama · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received an eARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher, for which I thank them.

“Out of Office” is by Phoebe MacLeod. While the Publisher’s summary claims this is a “laugh out-loud” book, I honestly didn’t find too much in this book meeting that statement. Were there some funny bits - yes, but they were certainly few and far between. This claims to be a second-chance romance, but the two main characters had never met before, so - is that really a second chance (unless we’re talking about after the predictable “at 75% into the book a bad thing happens” trope)? This book was pretty heavy - and a bit timely with some current news in NY State. I also didn’t feel like I got to know either of the main characters well. Overall, this wasn’t the most solid of Ms. MacLeod’s books, though it did have potential. I just think, for me, the topics that the MFC had to deal with overshadowed the “cute” part of the book - and why she didn’t think harder about the MMC’s situation toward the 75% mark, I found a bit surprising, to be honest. However, if you’ve liked Ms. MacLeod’s other books this might be one to pick up. Additionally, my recommendation would be to read other reviews of this book and decide if this book is your cup of tea or not.

[Rita · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

This is a relatively short story about Athena and Nathan in Cape Town, where work has brought them both. They both have their own stories, and while Athena shares hers, Nathan doesn’t. We only find out about his past at the very end, after a dramatic breakup, and in a completely random way.

The book is easy and quick to read, quite enjoyable and interesting, and written in fairly good prose. I liked both main characters, their journeys, their lives, and their personalities. However, a few things bothered me.

The breakup and the argument felt completely unnecessary, considering that the whole situation could have been resolved if Athena had simply stayed and listened to him for another couple of minutes or if Nathan simply talked faster, honestly. The random mutual friends who step in and solve the drama for the characters, while the characters themselves are mostly passive participants, were a big minus for me.

There were also several recurring jabs at fat people that stood out to me throughout the book. Maybe this is some kind of cultural thing, but I found it unpleasant.

Other than that, I enjoyed the book, and I might check out something else by this author.

[Carolina CHC · Rating 3.75 out of 5]

Athena and Nathan’s story begins with a cute encounter at the gym of the place where they are both staying while working on projects for their jobs. Their relationship starts carefully, as friends, even though you can see from early on how attracted they are to each other. That caution comes from the painful romantic experiences each of them has lived through, and it is also what leads to the misunderstanding that drives them apart. What brings them back together is another fortunate coincidence, one you won’t see coming.

I really enjoyed this meet-cute and the friendly relationship the couple shares for most of the book. Their adventures in South Africa, full of gourmet tips, gave me ideas I may keep for future travels. The supporting characters also add a nice dose of entertainment to the plot.

Overall, this book was fun to read. The drama around their breakup felt a bit exaggerated to me, and by the end some parts of Nathan’s story seemed cut short. Honestly, I would have liked the epilogue to tell us more. Other than that, it was an enjoyable read and a good way to spend your time.

Thank you to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for an advance copy. This is my honest review.

[Elizabeth Higgins · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are some authors whose books become so much more than just stories, and Phoebe McLeod is definitely one of those authors for me.

I discovered Phoebe’s books during a particularly dark period in my life, and they became such a source of escapism. Her writing is warm, funny and full of heart. It almost didn’t matter what the story was about, I just knew that whenever I picked up one of her books that I was in safe hands and I was going to enjoy it.

Her characters felt real and relatable, even if some of the situations they found themselves in were a little less so! I loved how familiar faces would pop up in different books, almost like catching up with old friends. And she wrote about places like Margate so vividly that I really want to go and visit.

Knowing that Out of Office is Phoebe’s final book makes its publication feel incredibly bittersweet. I’m so glad there’s one last story for us, but I’m also terribly sad that there won’t be any more.

I’m just so glad I found her books when I did. Life was pretty rubbish at the time, and being able to lose myself in one of her stories and have a laugh meant more to me than I can really explain.

Thank you, Phoebe. Your books meant more to me than you’ll ever know. ❤️

[Dani ~ Booksbrewsandbees · Rating 4 out of 5]

Firstly I just want to say that the editors note at the start of this books was heartbreaking. I’ve really enjoyed all of the books I’ve read by Phoebe and it’s so so sad to know that this was her last book before passing away. My heart goes out to her family and friends and I’ll miss her as an author.

Out of Office, much like other books by Phoebe MacLeod was a delight to read - a lovely, easy to read rom-com which I devoured.

I loved the characters. Athena and the different dynamics within her family was such fun to read. Her pushy mom made me laugh and her closeness to her siblings made me think of my own brother and sister. The staff in Cape Town were amusing with their stubborn ways and I liked how Nathan was just lovely.

I enjoyed the relationship between Athena and Nathan becoming good friends before anything romantic happens.

I think the book highlighted the highs and lows of Cape Town showing the struggles that some face there but also the fun side to it too.

I think the storyline was fun and the whole book was enjoyable. I’m going to make sure I read Phoebes back catalog to honour her memory.

[Tanisha · Rating 4 out of 5]

After reading "Ex on the Beach," I knew that I enjoyed Phoebe MacLeod's writing style, so I was thrilled to get the chance to read another one of her books. I liked Athena right away, and I have to say that her job sounds pretty interesting! I also loved that the humor started early. I actually laughed out loud at her little "silver mishap." When she arrived in South Africa, I kept waiting for someone to bring it up because there was NO way I would have been able to ignore that! I was glad when it finally came up in conversation with Nathan because apparently, he had been wondering about it too.

Speaking of Nathan, I liked him almost immediately. He was charming, thoughtful, and seemed like a genuinely good guy. Of course, after reading the synopsis, I kept waiting for that big red flag to appear. The funny thing is that I never really saw one! Even when something happened that made Athena question everything, I was sitting there thinking, "Girl, there HAS to be more to this story!" I actually came up with a pretty specific theory about what was going on, and I was happy to discover that I was right. I won't say anything more about that because I don't want to spoil it for anyone.

I also really enjoyed the setting. Cape Town was a fun change of scenery, and I liked watching Athena slowly let her guard down while she was there. She has some pretty strong opinions about men and relationships, and while I could understand why she felt that way, there were definitely moments when I wanted her to give what she was building with Nathan a chance. I liked their chemistry and the way their relationship developed, especially because Athena wasn't exactly looking for romance when she arrived. There were plenty of funny moments mixed in with the more serious ones, which is something I really enjoy in a romantic comedy.

Overall, I really enjoyed this book! I did think the resolution to the main conflict was a little too easy, especially after everything that had happened, but I was still sitting there grinning from ear to ear. Sometimes you just want to see things work out for characters you've grown attached to! There isn't an official epilogue, but the final chapter takes place a little further into the future, so we still get that glimpse of what life looks like afterward. You know I love that! This was another fun read from Phoebe MacLeod, and I'm saddened to know this was her final book.

**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**

[stephanie mirly · Rating 2.5 out of 5]

I genuinely wanted to love this book, but the main character made that impossible. The premise had potential, and Athena’s struggles with intimacy following a sexual assault at university could have made for an interesting, emotionally layered romance.

Athena is an IT consultant visiting Cape Town, South Africa, for a work project when she finds herself attracted to another traveler staying in the same building. Things were going well enough until the main conflict, which Athena handled so poorly that I immediately found myself rooting against her. Unfortunately, things only went downhill from there. Having Athena pretend to be queer just to avoid a conversation with her mother felt uncomfortable and completely unnecessary.

The pacing was inconsistent, and the ending felt rushed, leaving the story feeling messy rather than satisfying. There was potential here, but between the frustrating character decisions and the questionable plot choices, the execution just didn’t work for me.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for an advanced copy of this book. All opinions within this review are my own.

[Katie · Rating 3.75 out of 5]

I was so sad to learn that this was Phoebe MacLeod's final book before her unexpected passing. Knowing that made reading it a little bittersweet.

For some reason, I had a hard time getting into this one. I think part of it was Athena's job and the whole consulting storyline, which just didn't grab my attention. However, once she met Nathan and their friendship began to develop, I found myself enjoying the story much more. I really liked Nathan from the beginning and enjoyed watching their friendship slowly turn into something more. Their adventures exploring Cape Town together were fun, and I loved the change of scenery.

Athena frustrated me at times, especially with how quickly she jumped to conclusions, but I still enjoyed seeing how everything played out. While this wasn't my favorite of Phoebe's books, it turned into a sweet, enjoyable romance once I connected with the characters.

It's heartbreaking to know there won't be any more stories from Phoebe MacLeod. She certainly had a gift for writing fun, lighthearted romances, and she will be missed.

Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Jen Lindsey · Rating 3 out of 5]

There is so much more to Athena’s story than what I anticipated. I loved her father, sister, and friends, and the beginning had me hooked. I feel like it took a bit to really get into the story, and was wondering how it would all connect to the main plot. On a job, Athena meets Nathan and I loved watching their relationship develop. There is deep trauma for Athena that gets brought up, and Nathan and the author handled it with a lot of care! However, her deep seated trauma lead her to jump to a conclusion without fully hearing Nathan's full story and the miscommunication was frustrating and then wrapped up extremely fast.

Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and publisher for an arc of Out of Office in exchange for an honest review. There were parts of the story I loved, but then some others that were a bit cringy, especially the discussions with her parents. I do agree there is some funny dialog, but it is a lot more emotional and reflective than I initially was prepared for. Overall, a 3 star read for me.

[Entisar Ali · Rating 4 out of 5]

Athena built her whole life around one simple rule, men are unreliable and best kept at a safe distance, and I loved watching that carefully guarded armor start cracking the moment Nathan walked into her Cape Town work trip. His charm and thoughtful attentiveness felt so genuine that I understood exactly why her long held decree suddenly felt negotiable, even as warning signs about his past started creeping in. Athena's family dynamics, her father, her sister, her mother's constant dismay at her romantic rules, felt so real and gave the story real emotional depth beyond just the central romance. Watching her slowly open up to Nathan while wrestling with deep seated trauma from her past added genuine weight, though I found myself frustrated when she jumped to conclusions about him without hearing him out fully. The ending rushed through what should have been a bigger reconciliation moment, but the humor and warmth throughout more than made up for it.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.