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Phoebe Smith's Private Blog
Fashion conscious Phoebe Smith wants only one a date for the works party in six weeks’ time. She embarks on a journey to find her man and keeps a private blog of all her disastrous encounters. But when her four-year-old nephew gets into her account, Phoebe’s problems only just begin. With Tinder calamities, a male escort and a pork pie addiction, Phoebe tackles her biggest the just too irritating Harry Bloom. Come with Phoebe on her search for the perfect man and see who will accompany her to the party in this hilarious romantic comedy novel.
- GenresChick Lit
311 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 10, 2016
119 people are currently reading
91 people want to read
About the author
Lynda Renham
41 books249 followersLynda Renham has been writing for as long as she can remember and had her first work published in a magazine at age nine and has continued writing in various forms since. She has had several poems published as well as articles in numerous magazines and newspapers. Recently she has taken part in radio discussions on the BBC.
She has studied literature and creative writing and has a blog on her web page: www.renham.co.uk
Lynda lives with her second husband and cat in Oxfordshire, England. She is Associate Editor for the online magazine The Scavenger and contributor to many others. When not writing Lynda can usually be found wasting her time on Facebook.
She has studied literature and creative writing and has a blog on her web page: www.renham.co.uk
Lynda lives with her second husband and cat in Oxfordshire, England. She is Associate Editor for the online magazine The Scavenger and contributor to many others. When not writing Lynda can usually be found wasting her time on Facebook.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
February 17, 2017
Phoebe is nursing a hangover, and the events of the night before, where she threw up all over her ex, Ashby, the one she had been trying to get back with. It is at this point that she decides to write a blog, but not one that everyone can see. Just one for her, like a private diary.
Throughout the story we stand shoulder to shoulder with Phoebe, as she tries to bag herself a man. Not only to make her ex jealous, but to hopefully find ‘the one’. Her friends set her up on Tinder, and off she goes, on many disastrous dates, including one that sees her micro-gliding, with a man who has a ‘word count’ of how much she can talk.
Phoebe also has to try and deal with the fact that the home that she rents, is being sold, and that Harry, who happens to be the son of the company boss buying her flat, lives next door – him, his barking dog, his loud drums, and his horse-faced girlfriend (although she only visits).
By writing all her feelings in her blog, regarding her family, ex, neighbour, and the dreadful dates, she helps to make herself feel a little better about her dire situation. But when her nephew comes to stay, the little rascal manages to let the whole world see her posts. Now Phoebe needs a big hole to jump into and hide.
Phoebe Smith’s Private Blog, is Lynda Renham’s fifteenth novel, and I have been fortunate to read all of them bar one. What I love about Lynda’s books is how full they are of humour, and laugh out loud bizarre situations. Yet they also have characters that are very realistic.
Her books are not full of mystery or suspense. They are out and out, pure chick lit at its finest, and they give you that joyous, feel-good feeling.
This book is just as romantic, funny, daft and has strong lovable, loyal characters as all of her other books. Phoebe is a bit of a cross between an airhead, a push-over and a rottweiler. She seems to take everyone at face value and is forever hopeful that she will meet Mr. Right. She sets her sights so high for her dates, that she can’t help but be disappointed, though I think everyone would be disappointed with her choice in men.
Harry is the mistakenly bad guy. The one that you swoon over, with his charm and good looks. Phoebe also has a great bunch of friends and relatives too, that add depth to the story.
This is a light-hearted, predictable chick lit, that fans of Bridget Jones’s Diary will enjoy, as you get to read Phoebe’s blog posts. You’ll find yourself being quite sympathetic with why people are upset when it goes live, as Phoebe is quite cruel about some of them.
A wonderful pick-you-up book, that you will laugh along with the whole way through.
Reviewed by Stacey on www.whisperingstories.com
Throughout the story we stand shoulder to shoulder with Phoebe, as she tries to bag herself a man. Not only to make her ex jealous, but to hopefully find ‘the one’. Her friends set her up on Tinder, and off she goes, on many disastrous dates, including one that sees her micro-gliding, with a man who has a ‘word count’ of how much she can talk.
Phoebe also has to try and deal with the fact that the home that she rents, is being sold, and that Harry, who happens to be the son of the company boss buying her flat, lives next door – him, his barking dog, his loud drums, and his horse-faced girlfriend (although she only visits).
By writing all her feelings in her blog, regarding her family, ex, neighbour, and the dreadful dates, she helps to make herself feel a little better about her dire situation. But when her nephew comes to stay, the little rascal manages to let the whole world see her posts. Now Phoebe needs a big hole to jump into and hide.
Phoebe Smith’s Private Blog, is Lynda Renham’s fifteenth novel, and I have been fortunate to read all of them bar one. What I love about Lynda’s books is how full they are of humour, and laugh out loud bizarre situations. Yet they also have characters that are very realistic.
Her books are not full of mystery or suspense. They are out and out, pure chick lit at its finest, and they give you that joyous, feel-good feeling.
This book is just as romantic, funny, daft and has strong lovable, loyal characters as all of her other books. Phoebe is a bit of a cross between an airhead, a push-over and a rottweiler. She seems to take everyone at face value and is forever hopeful that she will meet Mr. Right. She sets her sights so high for her dates, that she can’t help but be disappointed, though I think everyone would be disappointed with her choice in men.
Harry is the mistakenly bad guy. The one that you swoon over, with his charm and good looks. Phoebe also has a great bunch of friends and relatives too, that add depth to the story.
This is a light-hearted, predictable chick lit, that fans of Bridget Jones’s Diary will enjoy, as you get to read Phoebe’s blog posts. You’ll find yourself being quite sympathetic with why people are upset when it goes live, as Phoebe is quite cruel about some of them.
A wonderful pick-you-up book, that you will laugh along with the whole way through.
Reviewed by Stacey on www.whisperingstories.com
February 7, 2017
4.5 deja vu Stars!
What's it about? A hilarious tale about the crazy world of dating, and the possibility that what you've always wanted is right next door!
The best bits: Just hilarious! This book had me snorting coffee out my nose in public places. Every date had me in stitches!
The worst bits: This was entirely reminiscent of Bridget Jones' Diary. The similarities were glaringly obvious and I'm not sure if it was done on purpose. I imagined Renée Zellweger all the way through. And constantly had my mind comparing the two plots.
Also, while this is heavy on the comedy it is very light on the steam. Two kisses. Two paragraphs. That's it. And oh, I wanted so much more!
Recommended for: fans of rom-coms and Bridget Jones style heroines.
What's it about? A hilarious tale about the crazy world of dating, and the possibility that what you've always wanted is right next door!
The best bits: Just hilarious! This book had me snorting coffee out my nose in public places. Every date had me in stitches!
The worst bits: This was entirely reminiscent of Bridget Jones' Diary. The similarities were glaringly obvious and I'm not sure if it was done on purpose. I imagined Renée Zellweger all the way through. And constantly had my mind comparing the two plots.
Also, while this is heavy on the comedy it is very light on the steam. Two kisses. Two paragraphs. That's it. And oh, I wanted so much more!
Recommended for: fans of rom-coms and Bridget Jones style heroines.
November 22, 2016
Fans of the Bridget Jones’s Diary series are going to love this book.
Phoebe is a brilliant character. At thirty four, she is still no nearer to settling down, though it’s not from lack of trying. Her dating escapades are just hilarious and had me doubled over with laughter. She is still hankering after her ex boyfriend who we know is not right for her, where as Harry who is right under her nose is the perfect guy.
Harry I fell in love with myself. Phoebe has him so misunderstood and won’t entertain giving him a chance. He is just so lovely and I wanted to give Phoebe a good shake as to what was right under her very nose.
Phoebe has a great bunch of wonderful friends as well as her sister. They are all on standby to help offer advise as well as pick up the pieces. When her blog goes live though, it looks like Phoebe’s life is on the up for a change
Phoebe Smith’s Private Blog will certainly appeal to a wide audience. It is such a fun read and had me laughing out loud more than a few times. It’s one of those stories that will leave you with a huge grin on your face. Would love to see it as a film also or some sort of comedy series as think it would be great for the screen.
Phoebe is a brilliant character. At thirty four, she is still no nearer to settling down, though it’s not from lack of trying. Her dating escapades are just hilarious and had me doubled over with laughter. She is still hankering after her ex boyfriend who we know is not right for her, where as Harry who is right under her nose is the perfect guy.
Harry I fell in love with myself. Phoebe has him so misunderstood and won’t entertain giving him a chance. He is just so lovely and I wanted to give Phoebe a good shake as to what was right under her very nose.
Phoebe has a great bunch of wonderful friends as well as her sister. They are all on standby to help offer advise as well as pick up the pieces. When her blog goes live though, it looks like Phoebe’s life is on the up for a change
Phoebe Smith’s Private Blog will certainly appeal to a wide audience. It is such a fun read and had me laughing out loud more than a few times. It’s one of those stories that will leave you with a huge grin on your face. Would love to see it as a film also or some sort of comedy series as think it would be great for the screen.
November 25, 2016
This has to be my favourite book by Lynda Renham to date. It has got such a captivating plot and you’re left with oodles of that “feelgood” feeling that readers have come to expect from her books. I’ve just finished it and have been left with such a big smile on my face! I usually do most of my reading in bed at night but had to give up last night as apparently my hubby couldn’t sleep because of my “incessant snorting and chuckling”. But that’s what I loved about Phoebe Smith and her (not so) private blog-you just never knew what she would come out with next!
Phoebe has split up from boyfriend Ashby (fab name!) and so she is now dateless for the Guildhall Ball. But her friends Mak and Imogen are there to advise her on the next steps to take to get back into the dating game…unfortunately it looks like they have a few problems of their own too. Her sisters husband is ready to help out but surely Phoebe can find her own date for the night?
I just loved Phoebe right from when we met her on New Years Eve and her friend Imogen (plus much alcohol) convinces her to start a blog. Phoebe was like a Bridget Jones for the blogging and YouTube generation where Tinder is no longer an embarrassing way of finding a relationship but a very commonplace way to find your next partner! Her friends and family also had some great comedy lines and I loved the way some of the characters behaved in a not quite politically correct manner at times! The one liners just kept on coming and Phoebes journey to find love was filled with hilarious mishaps. I adored Harry Bloom as soon as he appeared (sigh!) and was willing Phoebe to look further than his connections to Bloom Properties.
As a blogger it was fabulous to see a blog playing a HUGE role here in changing Phoebes life. And the reactions to her blog posts lead to some of the funniest moments for me during her rise to unexpected fame. Honesty, I was giggling so much at some of the situations she found herself in. Despite all her little foibles, she was a engaging heroine whom I was cheering on to succeed in life and love.
Lynda Renham has a wonderfully warm and witty writing style that you sink into as soon as you start to read, leading to many pages being turned before you come up for air again. She has written a delightful modern rom-com that will have you laughing out loud and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Thanks to the publisher for my review copy of Phoebe Smith’s Private Blog.
Phoebe has split up from boyfriend Ashby (fab name!) and so she is now dateless for the Guildhall Ball. But her friends Mak and Imogen are there to advise her on the next steps to take to get back into the dating game…unfortunately it looks like they have a few problems of their own too. Her sisters husband is ready to help out but surely Phoebe can find her own date for the night?
I just loved Phoebe right from when we met her on New Years Eve and her friend Imogen (plus much alcohol) convinces her to start a blog. Phoebe was like a Bridget Jones for the blogging and YouTube generation where Tinder is no longer an embarrassing way of finding a relationship but a very commonplace way to find your next partner! Her friends and family also had some great comedy lines and I loved the way some of the characters behaved in a not quite politically correct manner at times! The one liners just kept on coming and Phoebes journey to find love was filled with hilarious mishaps. I adored Harry Bloom as soon as he appeared (sigh!) and was willing Phoebe to look further than his connections to Bloom Properties.
As a blogger it was fabulous to see a blog playing a HUGE role here in changing Phoebes life. And the reactions to her blog posts lead to some of the funniest moments for me during her rise to unexpected fame. Honesty, I was giggling so much at some of the situations she found herself in. Despite all her little foibles, she was a engaging heroine whom I was cheering on to succeed in life and love.
Lynda Renham has a wonderfully warm and witty writing style that you sink into as soon as you start to read, leading to many pages being turned before you come up for air again. She has written a delightful modern rom-com that will have you laughing out loud and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Thanks to the publisher for my review copy of Phoebe Smith’s Private Blog.
November 11, 2016
Oh poor Phoebe .. she has so many calamity's. I'm quite relieved I read this book in the privacy of my own home, to read in public leaves you in danger of giggling out loud uncontrollably!
Phoebe is nearly 34 years old (very important) single, has a passion for buying (un) designer clothes, blueberry muffins and pork pies. She works in a department store, lives in a flat which is due to be taken over so has an inevitable rent raise. Her mother is constantly comparing her to her sister and reminding her about her biological clock.
Her biggest concern though is finding a suitable date for the Guildhall Ball. She has recently been dumped by Ashby .. does she want to woo him back?
This is such an hilarious account of Phoebe's life. Her friends are brilliantly supportive and a major part of this story in their own right. Best friends are Imogen and Mak , I particularly liked the banter between all of them. Mak and Jasper's relationship is cute.
Feeling down and hopeless Phoebe decides to unleash all her feelings in her blog. This includes exactly what she thinks about anyone and everyone! This is a private blog though ... correct?
In a fruitless attempt to find a date she joins Tinder, some of the dates are excruciatingly painful to read .. poor Phoebe she really does attract some weirdo's. I loved Malcolm and the reaction at a party when he arrives with Phoebe. The 'bloody' steaks, the blisters, word-counts all delightful moments but there are SO many more!
Harry the next door neighbour caught my eye .. unfortunately he plays the drums .. loudly! How will Phoebe react to that?
There are some serious moments to balance the humour, the actions of Henry are dealt with well. The 'brat-face' nephew is so accurately depicted.
If you like a fast paced laugh a minute story then this is for you. All the characters are perfectly suited to the book and I connected with all of them .. at times I did wish Phoebe would just get her act together but ultimately she is lovably dumb. Another wonderful book from Lynda and I thank her for my ARC.
Phoebe is nearly 34 years old (very important) single, has a passion for buying (un) designer clothes, blueberry muffins and pork pies. She works in a department store, lives in a flat which is due to be taken over so has an inevitable rent raise. Her mother is constantly comparing her to her sister and reminding her about her biological clock.
Her biggest concern though is finding a suitable date for the Guildhall Ball. She has recently been dumped by Ashby .. does she want to woo him back?
This is such an hilarious account of Phoebe's life. Her friends are brilliantly supportive and a major part of this story in their own right. Best friends are Imogen and Mak , I particularly liked the banter between all of them. Mak and Jasper's relationship is cute.
Feeling down and hopeless Phoebe decides to unleash all her feelings in her blog. This includes exactly what she thinks about anyone and everyone! This is a private blog though ... correct?
In a fruitless attempt to find a date she joins Tinder, some of the dates are excruciatingly painful to read .. poor Phoebe she really does attract some weirdo's. I loved Malcolm and the reaction at a party when he arrives with Phoebe. The 'bloody' steaks, the blisters, word-counts all delightful moments but there are SO many more!
Harry the next door neighbour caught my eye .. unfortunately he plays the drums .. loudly! How will Phoebe react to that?
There are some serious moments to balance the humour, the actions of Henry are dealt with well. The 'brat-face' nephew is so accurately depicted.
If you like a fast paced laugh a minute story then this is for you. All the characters are perfectly suited to the book and I connected with all of them .. at times I did wish Phoebe would just get her act together but ultimately she is lovably dumb. Another wonderful book from Lynda and I thank her for my ARC.
November 14, 2016
PHOEBE SMITH'S PRIVATE BLOG by Lynda Renham is an absolutely rib-tickling read that will brighten up these dark Winter nights. Phoebe Smith finds herself dumped just before Christmas, and she is determined to show her ex, Ashby, that she is absolutely fine without him in the hopes that he might come back to her. As we follow Phoebe through some stunningly bad dates with hilarious outcomes, and her worries about her home, Phoebe decides to write everything down in her private blog as a form of therapy, just for her. From her sleazy co-worker, her lactating sister, a sexy new boss and her music-obsessed neighbour Harry, Phoebe takes us through her entertaining everyday life as she tries to find that something special that is missing. PHOEBE SMITH'S PRIVATE BLOG by Lynda Renham is a fantastic read that had me in stitches, and I highly recommend it to all fiction fans.
*I voluntarily reviewed this book for the author
*I voluntarily reviewed this book for the author
October 16, 2017
Overall rating: 4 stars
Genre: Chick Lit
Plot: 9/10
Ending: 4/10
Writing: 9/10
Hero: 10/10
Heroine: 9/10
Humour: 8/10
Feels: 8/10
HEA:
Genre: Chick Lit
Plot: 9/10
Ending: 4/10
Writing: 9/10
Hero: 10/10
Heroine: 9/10
Humour: 8/10
Feels: 8/10
HEA:
August 16, 2024
A cute, mindless read. I did find myself laughing out loud on a plane.
November 14, 2016
I received an advanced reading copy of this book for an honest review. I am a big fan of Lynda's books, they always seem to get funnier especially this one. I loved Phoebe from the start, as I felt like I could connect with her. She is on a hunt to get a man and goes on a very funny journey of finding Mr Right, whilst keeping a blog about it all. You can kind of guess what happens but it is the most enjoyable, laugh out loud read that I have read for a while (probably since Lynda's previous novel). This book will not disappoint.
November 10, 2016
Review to follow
September 4, 2017
(Spoiler alert: grammar error --sorry, but my english is kind of lousy)
I don't think I know how to start this only by stating: the book could had been SO much better. Many thing got me exasperated, so let's make a list:
- The main character saying she doesn't consider Mak and Jasp as men presence in the "psychic" event only because they're gay;
- Almost none importance to the harassment until someone said so. The man was touching her everywhere and she did NOTHING until she had a wake up call. Excuse me, but I prefer strong lead characters;
- Six years Imogem being with a married guy? Oh c'mon, he always cancelled with her and she didn't had a clue? Blimey
- Phoebe could be SO boring and had so much prejudice. All those dates on Tinder really annoyed me, that time could had been reallocated to constructing Harry and Phoebe's relationship. What about a real conversation in a bar or in their flats?! A talk about their lives, for instance. The dinner made by Harry in his flat could have turned out so much moreinteresting.
- The only worthwhile part was Harry Bloom's. Oh boy, he was incredible. But the author didn't think about building a relationship between them before Phoebe announced being madly in love with him? One of the thrills in reading a romance novel is when you see the connection, sparks flyings, souls touching, if you allow me to say, but we were only delivered small bites of encounters, and when happened, there was misinformations or misunderstandings or mis anything.
I'm feel sorry for wasting such a good Harry Bloom in a not so good book.
I don't think I know how to start this only by stating: the book could had been SO much better. Many thing got me exasperated, so let's make a list:
- The main character saying she doesn't consider Mak and Jasp as men presence in the "psychic" event only because they're gay;
- Almost none importance to the harassment until someone said so. The man was touching her everywhere and she did NOTHING until she had a wake up call. Excuse me, but I prefer strong lead characters;
- Six years Imogem being with a married guy? Oh c'mon, he always cancelled with her and she didn't had a clue? Blimey
- Phoebe could be SO boring and had so much prejudice. All those dates on Tinder really annoyed me, that time could had been reallocated to constructing Harry and Phoebe's relationship. What about a real conversation in a bar or in their flats?! A talk about their lives, for instance. The dinner made by Harry in his flat could have turned out so much moreinteresting.
- The only worthwhile part was Harry Bloom's. Oh boy, he was incredible. But the author didn't think about building a relationship between them before Phoebe announced being madly in love with him? One of the thrills in reading a romance novel is when you see the connection, sparks flyings, souls touching, if you allow me to say, but we were only delivered small bites of encounters, and when happened, there was misinformations or misunderstandings or mis anything.
I'm feel sorry for wasting such a good Harry Bloom in a not so good book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 30, 2016
Phoebe decides to write a blog as she tries to find a date for the big Works Party in six weeks time. She has an ex to show what he is missing and a flat to save from Booth properties. She has a sex pest at work and a sister who is married to a vicar. What follows is an insight into the world of Phoebe Smith, with heart break, mystery and pitfalls. As well as the cheer and hilarious mishaps that happen to most of us but never on this scale.
Lynda has done it again and put all our fears in writing, but given us the funniest out come of every problem. I swear each page had me laughing out loud. I loved all the characters and every single page in this book!! Highly recommend this.
Lynda has done it again and put all our fears in writing, but given us the funniest out come of every problem. I swear each page had me laughing out loud. I loved all the characters and every single page in this book!! Highly recommend this.
May 20, 2017
Chick lit
June 25, 2017
Loved It!
The story is delightful and I feel as though I have met each one of the main characters and 'friended' them so we can visit every day .
The story is delightful and I feel as though I have met each one of the main characters and 'friended' them so we can visit every day .
August 10, 2017
Funny
Great chick lit read. Kept me interested all the way through. The will they/won't they with Harry bloom. Definitely recommended
Great chick lit read. Kept me interested all the way through. The will they/won't they with Harry bloom. Definitely recommended
March 10, 2018
Ultimately the story was alright but I didn't like it, but that being said I couldn't justify giving it a bad score due to personal preference.
April 3, 2018
Yet again I was in trouble for laughing too much while the hubby was trying to watch TV.
April 16, 2018
2.5 stars. Didn’t enjoy this one. I’ve read a few of her other books, they were much better
August 7, 2019
I really would have to say this was pretty much a direct repackage of Bridget Jones's Diary.
April 3, 2020
This is a funny and fun book! Lots of laughs
April 27, 2017
If anybody has experienced dates that will make you want to jump off a cliff, it’s Phoebe Smith. With only 6 weeks to go until the Guildhall Ball and being newly single after her boyfriend Ashby ended things, Phoebe is on a mission to find a man worthy enough to be her date and maybe even more. Her best friend’s Mak and Imogen are here to save the day with a help from an app you all may know as ‘Tinder’ and her sister’s husband is ready to swoop in as a arm to hold, but surely Phoebe can find her own date? She can’t be that bad, right?
Personally, although Tinder is the go to app to find your true love, I truly don’t see the hype in Tinder and all men you come across end up being complete disasters. I believe it’s rare that you’ll find the love of your life on that app and just like Phoebe, she didn’t see the point in it either, however, there was no harm in at least trying the app out and seeing what results she could find. My gosh did she find some strange ones on there!
As a blogger myself, I loved seeing a blog play such a huge role in Phoebe’s story. Her blog posts had me giggling all the time, a lot of her dating stories were complete gold and although she didn’t want them to be seen by everybody, the mistake of a four year old began her path to fame.
All of the characters had such quirky personalities and made you laugh no matter what, you had the judgemental snobby women, the two best friends, the sister who was always squirting milk left, right and centre out of her breasts, a racist mother, an escort, horrific dates with mind numbing men and then we have Harry Bloom, the man Phoebe hated with a passion but also the man she couldn’t stop thinking about. I understood why Phoebe would feel some sort of anger towards Harry as his father is the man who could possibly have Phoebe kicked out of her apartment, however, Harry was not like his father and I found myself becoming stressed at Phoebe for only thinking the worst and not giving Harry the opportunities to defend himself. Even though she could be a cold hearted witch to him, Harry was always a gentlemen and by the end you see it totally starts rubbing off on Phoebe.
This is the first book I’ve read of Lynda Renham’s and I am delighted that this was my first as she is such an incredible and comedic writer, I kept coming back for more. Her writing style is witty and delightful, you will find yourself laughing out loud and agreeing with so much of Phoebe’s tragic situations. I can’t wait to invest in more of Lynda’s books because I am 100% sure they will also be a wonderful read, just as this one was.
I publish my book reviews at: https://platinumdiaries.wordpress.com/
Personally, although Tinder is the go to app to find your true love, I truly don’t see the hype in Tinder and all men you come across end up being complete disasters. I believe it’s rare that you’ll find the love of your life on that app and just like Phoebe, she didn’t see the point in it either, however, there was no harm in at least trying the app out and seeing what results she could find. My gosh did she find some strange ones on there!
As a blogger myself, I loved seeing a blog play such a huge role in Phoebe’s story. Her blog posts had me giggling all the time, a lot of her dating stories were complete gold and although she didn’t want them to be seen by everybody, the mistake of a four year old began her path to fame.
All of the characters had such quirky personalities and made you laugh no matter what, you had the judgemental snobby women, the two best friends, the sister who was always squirting milk left, right and centre out of her breasts, a racist mother, an escort, horrific dates with mind numbing men and then we have Harry Bloom, the man Phoebe hated with a passion but also the man she couldn’t stop thinking about. I understood why Phoebe would feel some sort of anger towards Harry as his father is the man who could possibly have Phoebe kicked out of her apartment, however, Harry was not like his father and I found myself becoming stressed at Phoebe for only thinking the worst and not giving Harry the opportunities to defend himself. Even though she could be a cold hearted witch to him, Harry was always a gentlemen and by the end you see it totally starts rubbing off on Phoebe.
This is the first book I’ve read of Lynda Renham’s and I am delighted that this was my first as she is such an incredible and comedic writer, I kept coming back for more. Her writing style is witty and delightful, you will find yourself laughing out loud and agreeing with so much of Phoebe’s tragic situations. I can’t wait to invest in more of Lynda’s books because I am 100% sure they will also be a wonderful read, just as this one was.
I publish my book reviews at: https://platinumdiaries.wordpress.com/
February 25, 2017
Ordinary girl, hysterical existence
Phoebe Smith is an ordinary girl who loves pork pies, blueberry muffins, alcohol, and knockoff designer fashion. Well, who doesn't?! After her boyfriend breaks up with her right before Christmas she and her friends decide a private blog is just the thing. It's insightful, introspective...and hysterical. Phoebe's story is that of any average girl - complete with Chanel heels and a Christmas belly compliments of breakup bingeing. Which is why it's so funny, so tragic, and so memorable.
Phoebe Smith is an ordinary girl who loves pork pies, blueberry muffins, alcohol, and knockoff designer fashion. Well, who doesn't?! After her boyfriend breaks up with her right before Christmas she and her friends decide a private blog is just the thing. It's insightful, introspective...and hysterical. Phoebe's story is that of any average girl - complete with Chanel heels and a Christmas belly compliments of breakup bingeing. Which is why it's so funny, so tragic, and so memorable.
December 23, 2016
Oh my… in true Lynda Renham style I was laughing out loud so many times while reading Phoebe Smith’s Private Blog. Everything from the writings on the blog to the characters to the different locations Phoebe visits made me smile and laugh. Phoebe starts a private blog which “brat face” manages to change to public while playing on her computer. She tells her thoughts, her feelings, and her wishes on this blog much like you would a journal. Then the whole world sees it. It starts a motion again sexual harassment in the workplace, opens eyes to relationships, and points out some truths in family relationships.
The friendships in this story really stuck with me. Whether dealing with the loss of a boyfriend, dating a married man, becoming pregnant, or having a private blog go public these friends stuck together. The cheered each other on, consoled them when things didn’t go their way, and pushed them to be all they could be all without ever expecting anything in return. I loved their impromptu get-togethers, whether at Phoebe’s apartment or at a bar/restaurant. Phoebe and her friends were TRUE BLUE friends.
The relationship between Harry and Phoebe was my favorite. She hated him without giving him a chance because of what she read about him on the internet. Yet, every time she ran into him she liked him more and more. Their relationship was slow, never easy, and so enjoyable to the reader. I liked how Harry persisted on helping Phoebe when she was in need, a car jump, a date, or a meal. I was definitely hoping that Phoebe would open her eyes are realize that Harry was a good guy before he gave up on her.
I definitely recommend picking up your own copy of Phoebe Smith’s Private Blog.
The friendships in this story really stuck with me. Whether dealing with the loss of a boyfriend, dating a married man, becoming pregnant, or having a private blog go public these friends stuck together. The cheered each other on, consoled them when things didn’t go their way, and pushed them to be all they could be all without ever expecting anything in return. I loved their impromptu get-togethers, whether at Phoebe’s apartment or at a bar/restaurant. Phoebe and her friends were TRUE BLUE friends.
The relationship between Harry and Phoebe was my favorite. She hated him without giving him a chance because of what she read about him on the internet. Yet, every time she ran into him she liked him more and more. Their relationship was slow, never easy, and so enjoyable to the reader. I liked how Harry persisted on helping Phoebe when she was in need, a car jump, a date, or a meal. I was definitely hoping that Phoebe would open her eyes are realize that Harry was a good guy before he gave up on her.
I definitely recommend picking up your own copy of Phoebe Smith’s Private Blog.
January 18, 2017
I’ll be honest and admit that this one didn’t pull me in from its opening pages – I didn’t immediately take to Phoebe, and I really didn’t like the opening scene. But do stick with it – once Phoebe started her private blog, and we began to share her thoughts, reflections and observations, I was hooked. I really couldn’t resist her wonderful and distinctive voice, contemplating her growing spare tyre, advancing age, where the next Bestie’s pork pie was coming from and the fact that no-one would ever find her desirable. I adored her eccentric friends and family, often offering inappropriate but well-meaning advice, and her inability to avoid the most obvious difficult situations (the protest scenes are wonderful).
And the book really took off for me with the sequence of blind dates – I guess there are many of us who’ve had our share of comparable first date disasters, but Phoebe’s are off the scale in their cringe worthiness. To say “laugh a minute” though is to do this book a disservice, because there’s a serious edge to this one when workplace sexual harassment rears its head – “laughing it off” is perhaps only too often the easiest response, and the issue is really well handled.
The final blog-related twist is ingenious and wonderfully done – and after shouting “don’t!!” and “oh, Phoebe…” repeatedly throughout the last quarter, the outcome was everything I hoped it would be. He’s so lovely (and no, I’m not saying…)! Another great read from Lynda… and I must say that I enjoyed it far, far more than the Bridget Jones franchise many have compared it with.
And the book really took off for me with the sequence of blind dates – I guess there are many of us who’ve had our share of comparable first date disasters, but Phoebe’s are off the scale in their cringe worthiness. To say “laugh a minute” though is to do this book a disservice, because there’s a serious edge to this one when workplace sexual harassment rears its head – “laughing it off” is perhaps only too often the easiest response, and the issue is really well handled.
The final blog-related twist is ingenious and wonderfully done – and after shouting “don’t!!” and “oh, Phoebe…” repeatedly throughout the last quarter, the outcome was everything I hoped it would be. He’s so lovely (and no, I’m not saying…)! Another great read from Lynda… and I must say that I enjoyed it far, far more than the Bridget Jones franchise many have compared it with.
November 10, 2016
My Review Of
Phoebe Smith’s Private Blog By Lynda Renham
I loved Phoebe Smith’s Private Blog, it was funny and full of interesting and very different characters, at times this book had me really laughing out loud, while still being able to connect with Phoebe and some of the other characters on a deeper level.
The book itself is about Phoebe Smith who embarks on finding a date to go with her on social advents and parties. However the road to love never did run smoothly and finding just the right date is proving harder than she first thought, as she battles through many dates that leave her with blisters on her feet and ending up paying for a male escort to accompany her, however, he wasn’t what she really wanted… So she write a private blog about her experiences. Will her blog stay private or will the world get to hear her thought? Read this funny, touching and romantic book to find out….
Throughout the book Phoebe and her friends get to know Harry Bloom her musical neighbour who gets under her skin, but slowly his charm has them all warming to him. Could he be the one phoebe should be looking to date?
I felt the characters in this book were well-rounded and easy to follow. I would recommend this book to anyone this winter who like a good laugh while snuggled-up on the sofa in the warm. So why not follow Phoebe on her quest to find a date in this funny, touching, romantic comedy…
Phoebe Smith’s Private Blog By Lynda Renham
I loved Phoebe Smith’s Private Blog, it was funny and full of interesting and very different characters, at times this book had me really laughing out loud, while still being able to connect with Phoebe and some of the other characters on a deeper level.
The book itself is about Phoebe Smith who embarks on finding a date to go with her on social advents and parties. However the road to love never did run smoothly and finding just the right date is proving harder than she first thought, as she battles through many dates that leave her with blisters on her feet and ending up paying for a male escort to accompany her, however, he wasn’t what she really wanted… So she write a private blog about her experiences. Will her blog stay private or will the world get to hear her thought? Read this funny, touching and romantic book to find out….
Throughout the book Phoebe and her friends get to know Harry Bloom her musical neighbour who gets under her skin, but slowly his charm has them all warming to him. Could he be the one phoebe should be looking to date?
I felt the characters in this book were well-rounded and easy to follow. I would recommend this book to anyone this winter who like a good laugh while snuggled-up on the sofa in the warm. So why not follow Phoebe on her quest to find a date in this funny, touching, romantic comedy…
February 17, 2017
Such an easy and funny read. I'd honestly love to see a follow up. I'm addicted to the goings on of phoebe and Harry.
November 22, 2016
Fans of the Bridget Jones’s Diary series are going to love this book.
Phoebe is a brilliant character. At thirty four, she is still no nearer to settling down, though it’s not from lack of trying. Her dating escapades are just hilarious and had me doubled over with laughter. She is still hankering after her ex boyfriend who we know is not right for her, where as Harry who is right under her nose is the perfect guy.
Harry I fell in love with myself. Phoebe has him so misunderstood and won’t entertain giving him a chance. He is just so lovely and I wanted to give Phoebe a good shake as to what was right under her very nose.
Phoebe has a great bunch of wonderful friends as well as her sister. They are all on standby to help offer advise as well as pick up the pieces. When her blog goes live though, it looks like Phoebe’s life is on the up for a change
Phoebe Smith’s Private Blog will certainly appeal to a wide audience. It is such a fun read and had me laughing out loud more than a few times. It’s one of those stories that will leave you with a huge grin on your face. Would love to see it as a film also or some sort of comedy series as think it would be great for the screen.
Phoebe is a brilliant character. At thirty four, she is still no nearer to settling down, though it’s not from lack of trying. Her dating escapades are just hilarious and had me doubled over with laughter. She is still hankering after her ex boyfriend who we know is not right for her, where as Harry who is right under her nose is the perfect guy.
Harry I fell in love with myself. Phoebe has him so misunderstood and won’t entertain giving him a chance. He is just so lovely and I wanted to give Phoebe a good shake as to what was right under her very nose.
Phoebe has a great bunch of wonderful friends as well as her sister. They are all on standby to help offer advise as well as pick up the pieces. When her blog goes live though, it looks like Phoebe’s life is on the up for a change
Phoebe Smith’s Private Blog will certainly appeal to a wide audience. It is such a fun read and had me laughing out loud more than a few times. It’s one of those stories that will leave you with a huge grin on your face. Would love to see it as a film also or some sort of comedy series as think it would be great for the screen.
November 17, 2016
Lynda Renham has done it again!
Lynda always manages to write a really good, fun story. A story with likeable characters and as a blogger myself, albeit ramblings on books, I felt an affinity to Phoebe. Phoebe was just using the blogging platform to write down her thoughts on her love life and lack of it. Her blog was set as private so Phoebe was feeling quiet cathartic writing down her thoughts on work, life, men, dating etc. but unbeknown to her the blog accidentally became public.
Phoebe’s life changes drastically following this public outing of her blog. A huge following grows and support for the group SHAG (Sexual Harassment Activist Group) take matters into their own hands and encroach into Phoebe’s workplace.
Can Phoebe take back control of her life after all the revelations discovered on the blog.
This was full of Lynda Renham’s usual frank honest humour. It was thoroughly entertaining with dating disasters in abundance and heart-warming moments to leave a smile on your face for a long time.
Lynda always manages to write a really good, fun story. A story with likeable characters and as a blogger myself, albeit ramblings on books, I felt an affinity to Phoebe. Phoebe was just using the blogging platform to write down her thoughts on her love life and lack of it. Her blog was set as private so Phoebe was feeling quiet cathartic writing down her thoughts on work, life, men, dating etc. but unbeknown to her the blog accidentally became public.
Phoebe’s life changes drastically following this public outing of her blog. A huge following grows and support for the group SHAG (Sexual Harassment Activist Group) take matters into their own hands and encroach into Phoebe’s workplace.
Can Phoebe take back control of her life after all the revelations discovered on the blog.
This was full of Lynda Renham’s usual frank honest humour. It was thoroughly entertaining with dating disasters in abundance and heart-warming moments to leave a smile on your face for a long time.
January 24, 2017
What happens when all of your private thoughts go viral on the internet? Phoebe Smith becomes the talk of the town, and possibly all of England, when her nephew accidentally changes her private blog to public while playing on her computer.
The hilarious tales of Phoebe’s dating life, her problems at work and all of her secret thoughts have created a following that Phoebe never anticipated. She has become a local celebrity and soon everyone wants to know who Phoebe Smith really is.
I found this book to be a lot of fun. I laughed through so many of the scenes and could visualize them perfectly through the writer’s words. The dates were the funniest. At first I felt sorry for Phoebe being dumped right before Christmas, but after that part, the fun began and it was one laugh after another. It was a hard book to put down and I found myself staying up very late a few nights because I just couldn’t find a spot to stop reading. If you are a fan of the Bridget Jones books or enjoy romantic comedies, you will love this book.
The hilarious tales of Phoebe’s dating life, her problems at work and all of her secret thoughts have created a following that Phoebe never anticipated. She has become a local celebrity and soon everyone wants to know who Phoebe Smith really is.
I found this book to be a lot of fun. I laughed through so many of the scenes and could visualize them perfectly through the writer’s words. The dates were the funniest. At first I felt sorry for Phoebe being dumped right before Christmas, but after that part, the fun began and it was one laugh after another. It was a hard book to put down and I found myself staying up very late a few nights because I just couldn’t find a spot to stop reading. If you are a fan of the Bridget Jones books or enjoy romantic comedies, you will love this book.
January 26, 2017
What happens when all of your private blog go viral on the internet? Read this book & find out loads of funny bits had me (LOL) Laughing out loud all the way through but a very Predictable story but definitely worth a read
Fashion conscious Phoebe Smith wants only one thing: a date for the works party in six weeks’ time. She embarks on a journey to find her man and keeps a private blog of all her disastrous encounters. But when her four-year-old nephew gets into her account, Phoebe’s problems only just begin. With Tinder calamities, a male escort and a pork pie addiction, Phoebe tackles her biggest problem: the just too irritating Harry Bloom. Come with Phoebe on her search for the perfect man and see who will accompany her to the party in this hilarious romantic comedy novel.
Fashion conscious Phoebe Smith wants only one thing: a date for the works party in six weeks’ time. She embarks on a journey to find her man and keeps a private blog of all her disastrous encounters. But when her four-year-old nephew gets into her account, Phoebe’s problems only just begin. With Tinder calamities, a male escort and a pork pie addiction, Phoebe tackles her biggest problem: the just too irritating Harry Bloom. Come with Phoebe on her search for the perfect man and see who will accompany her to the party in this hilarious romantic comedy novel.
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