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My Great Ex-Scape
What if your future was somewhere in your past?
Rosie Jones has been dumped by every boyfriend she’s ever had - most recently by Dinosaur Dave, live on TV, during the ‘phone-a-friend’ segment of a quiz show.
After the footage goes viral Rosie receives a bunch of flowers with a message:
I love you, I should have never let you go, I want you back x
But who sent them?
At a loose end and with £50,000 prize money in her back pocket, Rosie decides to take a trip down memory lane, visiting each of her ex-boyfriends to see not just if they are the one who sent the flowers but if they are the one.
Her journey takes her back to the house she grew up in and on a transatlantic cruise to New York, but can Rosie figure out which ex-boyfriend is the love of her life, or should the past stay in the past?
Rosie Jones has been dumped by every boyfriend she’s ever had - most recently by Dinosaur Dave, live on TV, during the ‘phone-a-friend’ segment of a quiz show.
After the footage goes viral Rosie receives a bunch of flowers with a message:
I love you, I should have never let you go, I want you back x
But who sent them?
At a loose end and with £50,000 prize money in her back pocket, Rosie decides to take a trip down memory lane, visiting each of her ex-boyfriends to see not just if they are the one who sent the flowers but if they are the one.
Her journey takes her back to the house she grew up in and on a transatlantic cruise to New York, but can Rosie figure out which ex-boyfriend is the love of her life, or should the past stay in the past?
278 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 16, 2020
1645 people are currently reading
1583 people want to read
About the author
Portia MacIntosh
46 books2,035 followersPortia MacIntosh is the bestselling author of over 30 romantic comedy novels.
From disastrous dates to destination weddings, Portia’s romcoms are the perfect way to escape from day to day life, visiting sunny beaches in the summer and snowy villages at Christmas time. Whether it’s southern Italy or the Yorkshire coast, Portia’s stories are the holiday you’re craving, conveniently packed in between the pages.
Formerly a journalist, Portia has left the city, swapping the music biz for the moors, to live the (not so) quiet life with her husband and her dog in Yorkshire.
Find out more at www.portiamacintosh.com
From disastrous dates to destination weddings, Portia’s romcoms are the perfect way to escape from day to day life, visiting sunny beaches in the summer and snowy villages at Christmas time. Whether it’s southern Italy or the Yorkshire coast, Portia’s stories are the holiday you’re craving, conveniently packed in between the pages.
Formerly a journalist, Portia has left the city, swapping the music biz for the moors, to live the (not so) quiet life with her husband and her dog in Yorkshire.
Find out more at www.portiamacintosh.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 391 reviews
January 20, 2020
5☆ A Witty, Light Hearted, Fun Rom Com that will have you giggling out Loud!
Rosie hates her job as a journalist, she feels trapped and unable to express herself.
So when she gets tickets to go on a quiz show from her boss, and to be part of the audience on a New Quiz Show, she doesn't in her wildest dreams, think she will be picked to play the game (Think who wants to be a millionaire)
But Rosie makes it all the way to the very last question to win £50,000 and she decides to phone her boyfriend David to help her answer the question. But what comes out of his mouth...is him telling her their relationship is Over! On Live Tv... On the Bright side she held her dignity and won the £50,000. Even if he did shatter her heart live on tv!
Then he had the audacity to ask her for his share of the money!... what an absolute jerk! She's well shot of him!
But then there is the gorgeous bouquet of flowers that arrived on her doorstep.... who are they from?... who was the mystery man who loves her and wishes he never let her go!?
So Rosie sets out to find out who her mystery Man is and with just 5 Ex's it shouldn't be that difficult.... should it?
Rosie was such a fantastic character, my heart went out to her, but she dusted herself off determined to find her Mr Right! I can definitely see her character being very relatable to others.
My Great Ex-Scape is a fun, light hearted, Uplifting, laugh out loud Rom Com, and everything I have come to love about Portia's Books.
The story and pace just flowed along beautifully, it was compelling, exciting, very funny and witty and I loved all The Characters, they were wonderfully written, quirky and relatable.
I adore Portia's Books and she is definitely one of my favourite Authors.
So if you are looking for a Witty Rom Com, That's a Light Hearted Romp, that will have you giggling till the early hours then My Great Ex-Scape is most definitely the book for you!
Thank you to Boldwood Books for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2020/0...
Rosie hates her job as a journalist, she feels trapped and unable to express herself.
So when she gets tickets to go on a quiz show from her boss, and to be part of the audience on a New Quiz Show, she doesn't in her wildest dreams, think she will be picked to play the game (Think who wants to be a millionaire)
But Rosie makes it all the way to the very last question to win £50,000 and she decides to phone her boyfriend David to help her answer the question. But what comes out of his mouth...is him telling her their relationship is Over! On Live Tv... On the Bright side she held her dignity and won the £50,000. Even if he did shatter her heart live on tv!
Then he had the audacity to ask her for his share of the money!... what an absolute jerk! She's well shot of him!
But then there is the gorgeous bouquet of flowers that arrived on her doorstep.... who are they from?... who was the mystery man who loves her and wishes he never let her go!?
So Rosie sets out to find out who her mystery Man is and with just 5 Ex's it shouldn't be that difficult.... should it?
Rosie was such a fantastic character, my heart went out to her, but she dusted herself off determined to find her Mr Right! I can definitely see her character being very relatable to others.
My Great Ex-Scape is a fun, light hearted, Uplifting, laugh out loud Rom Com, and everything I have come to love about Portia's Books.
The story and pace just flowed along beautifully, it was compelling, exciting, very funny and witty and I loved all The Characters, they were wonderfully written, quirky and relatable.
I adore Portia's Books and she is definitely one of my favourite Authors.
So if you are looking for a Witty Rom Com, That's a Light Hearted Romp, that will have you giggling till the early hours then My Great Ex-Scape is most definitely the book for you!
Thank you to Boldwood Books for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2020/0...
November 24, 2020
After being dumped by her boyfriend on live TV, Rosie's humilliation goes viral. Next day she receives a bunch of flowers with the message "I love you. I should have never let you go. I want you back". With the money she won on TV she decides to embark on a trip to find out which one of her exes sent the flowers. And she does not do this alone, going on a cruise to New York with her parents and her new gay best friend to reconnect with two of her ex boyfriends. Chick-lit with a trip abroad? That's so right up my alley!
One of the best things of this story is that Rosie doesn't present herself as a victim. She could have been whining and wallowing in self-pity the whole story about her bad luck in love and blaming their exes for the break-ups, but she takes responsibility for her actions, making her a likable character with her qualities and faults. I also liked her new found friendship with Eli, making them a great duo.
This was a light and quick read with several laugh out loud moments and a set of quirky and lovable characters. It was my first contact with the author's work but now will definetely check her previous novels.
Thanks to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
One of the best things of this story is that Rosie doesn't present herself as a victim. She could have been whining and wallowing in self-pity the whole story about her bad luck in love and blaming their exes for the break-ups, but she takes responsibility for her actions, making her a likable character with her qualities and faults. I also liked her new found friendship with Eli, making them a great duo.
This was a light and quick read with several laugh out loud moments and a set of quirky and lovable characters. It was my first contact with the author's work but now will definetely check her previous novels.
Thanks to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 13, 2023
*Searching for love*
Rosie has been involved with 5 men and all have dumped her including being dumped on a quiz show live on air. It was a dinosaur question and they were talking at cross purposes, Rosie wanting the name of a particular dinosaur, he deciding to dump her. It was humiliating and what’s worse it goes viral.
Rosie wins the prize money of £50K and decides to resign from her job and on returning home there are a bunch of flowers no name but the note has a declaration of love, so she decides to hunt out all her ex’s. It is a great rom-com and has lots of soul searching and hilarity not to mention one boyfriend who is now gay!!!
What will she learn from the experience and will she get to the bottom of the author of the note? Will she find love?
Rosie has been involved with 5 men and all have dumped her including being dumped on a quiz show live on air. It was a dinosaur question and they were talking at cross purposes, Rosie wanting the name of a particular dinosaur, he deciding to dump her. It was humiliating and what’s worse it goes viral.
Rosie wins the prize money of £50K and decides to resign from her job and on returning home there are a bunch of flowers no name but the note has a declaration of love, so she decides to hunt out all her ex’s. It is a great rom-com and has lots of soul searching and hilarity not to mention one boyfriend who is now gay!!!
What will she learn from the experience and will she get to the bottom of the author of the note? Will she find love?
October 27, 2020
There's nothing "wrong" with this book. There's no drastic miscommunications or toxic people or anything like that. Even the plot and premise are fine, but I struggled with it because homegirl is CONSTANTLY embarrassing herself and there is only so much second hand embarrassment that I can handle.
Rosie gets dumped on live TV and the clip goes viral. She receives flowers the next day saying "I should have never let you go, I love you," and thinking it's her ex, goes to his place, only to have him ask for half the prize money she won on the show.
WOW. Sir.
So then she decides to track down her other exes, because there are only four of them, and find out which one sent her the flowers. Not necessarily to get back together with them, but just to catch up and figure out who sent the flowers.
Chaos ensues and she ends up on a geriatric cruise ship with her gay ex and her parents, where she's trapped with her Michael Buble impersonator ex boyfriend.
A lot of humiliation ensues. And I mean A LOT.
Just once, just once , I wanted her to come out on top. Like, just do one thing that's not embarrassing. Don't get too drunk, or do, but hold it together. Don't say something stupid and make the situation worse. DON'T THROW UP, FOR THE LOVE DON'T THROW UP.
Alas.
Rosie gets dumped on live TV and the clip goes viral. She receives flowers the next day saying "I should have never let you go, I love you," and thinking it's her ex, goes to his place, only to have him ask for half the prize money she won on the show.
WOW. Sir.
So then she decides to track down her other exes, because there are only four of them, and find out which one sent her the flowers. Not necessarily to get back together with them, but just to catch up and figure out who sent the flowers.
Chaos ensues and she ends up on a geriatric cruise ship with her gay ex and her parents, where she's trapped with her Michael Buble impersonator ex boyfriend.
A lot of humiliation ensues. And I mean A LOT.
Just once, just once , I wanted her to come out on top. Like, just do one thing that's not embarrassing. Don't get too drunk, or do, but hold it together. Don't say something stupid and make the situation worse. DON'T THROW UP, FOR THE LOVE DON'T THROW UP.
Alas.
December 30, 2019
Rosie gets dumped on live TV when she is a contestant on a game show by her boyfriend Dave. We find out that Dave is the latest boyfriend to end it with Rosie, every man she had been with broke up with her for various reasons in the past. In the meantime, she gets a bouquet of flowers from an unknown person with an unsigned message that says he wants her back. Convinced that it is one of her exes who sent the flowers to her, she decides to go on a search to find out who it was. Anyways, the story started really strong but was kind of boring at times when she was on the cruise to New York City. Rosie, Eli who is one of her ex-boyfriends, Rosie's parents and of course Josh were all likable and endearing which helped move the story along for me.
Thank you NetGalley and Boldwood Books for providing me with an ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Thank you NetGalley and Boldwood Books for providing me with an ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
September 1, 2021
She needed to work on herself before entering a relationship, because she chose a lukewarm man for the nth time.
January 20, 2020
Book Reviewed on www.whisperingstories.com
Rosie Jones is asked by her work colleague to go with her to a recording of a quiz show where the contestants are chosen from the audience. Luck was on her side when she was selected to play the game. One of the questions about dinosaurs baffles her so she uses her phone-a-friend life-line to call her boyfriend Dave who just happens to be a dinosaur expert.
However, Dave doesn’t know she is on live TV and when she tells him she has a question to ask him he automatically thinks that she is about to propose and dumps her, fortunately, he still gives her the right answer to the quiz and Rosie walks away £50,000 richer but single.
Feeling humiliated Rosie is overjoyed when she receives a bunch of flowers with the message ‘I love you, I should have never let you go, I want you back x’. She immediately thinks it’s Dave, but she is wrong, the only thing he wants is a share of her prize money given that he gave her the answer to a question she didn’t know.
Rosie then writes herself a list of ex-boyfriends, there are just five of them, and decides to try and find out which one sent the flowers and wants her back. Her search takes her back to her hometown where two of her previous partners live and then onto a cruise ship to find another and into New York. But is following your past really a good idea?
My Great Ex-Scape was an amusing, uplifting novel that I thoroughly enjoyed, although I couldn’t think of anything worse than re-connecting with ex-boyfriends and did wonder why on earth anyone would want to do that.
The book’s main focus is on the cruise ship after Rosie discounts the first three boyfriends including one that is married and one that is gay. It is her new gay best friend Eli who offers to go with her on the cruise where another of her ex-boyfriends is working as a singer, and the cruise happens to be travelling to New York where another works as a photographer. However, Rosie asks her father to book the cruise, which he does but includes himself and her mother as passengers too.
There are certainly plenty of giggles along the way and it was lovely to see Rosie starts to learn more about herself in those few weeks than she had ever realised before. If you enjoy light-hearted rom-coms then this is certainly a book to add to your list.
Rosie Jones is asked by her work colleague to go with her to a recording of a quiz show where the contestants are chosen from the audience. Luck was on her side when she was selected to play the game. One of the questions about dinosaurs baffles her so she uses her phone-a-friend life-line to call her boyfriend Dave who just happens to be a dinosaur expert.
However, Dave doesn’t know she is on live TV and when she tells him she has a question to ask him he automatically thinks that she is about to propose and dumps her, fortunately, he still gives her the right answer to the quiz and Rosie walks away £50,000 richer but single.
Feeling humiliated Rosie is overjoyed when she receives a bunch of flowers with the message ‘I love you, I should have never let you go, I want you back x’. She immediately thinks it’s Dave, but she is wrong, the only thing he wants is a share of her prize money given that he gave her the answer to a question she didn’t know.
Rosie then writes herself a list of ex-boyfriends, there are just five of them, and decides to try and find out which one sent the flowers and wants her back. Her search takes her back to her hometown where two of her previous partners live and then onto a cruise ship to find another and into New York. But is following your past really a good idea?
My Great Ex-Scape was an amusing, uplifting novel that I thoroughly enjoyed, although I couldn’t think of anything worse than re-connecting with ex-boyfriends and did wonder why on earth anyone would want to do that.
The book’s main focus is on the cruise ship after Rosie discounts the first three boyfriends including one that is married and one that is gay. It is her new gay best friend Eli who offers to go with her on the cruise where another of her ex-boyfriends is working as a singer, and the cruise happens to be travelling to New York where another works as a photographer. However, Rosie asks her father to book the cruise, which he does but includes himself and her mother as passengers too.
There are certainly plenty of giggles along the way and it was lovely to see Rosie starts to learn more about herself in those few weeks than she had ever realised before. If you enjoy light-hearted rom-coms then this is certainly a book to add to your list.
November 28, 2019
As the year slowly comes to a close I have sadly found myself reading another dud. Let's start off by saying that this had potential but it wasn't executed well enough to immerse me into journey of our blonde heroine journey in finding who (re)confessed their love to her and sent her a bouquet of flowers after an embarrassing television event that made her an overnight internet sensation. You would think that with a novel like this being highly promoted as a "romantic comedy" it would actually have some romance and a bit of comedy thrown into the mix, think again my friend. This was a borefest, the buildup to actually finding Mr. Right was lackluster and I was disappointed that this became an another miss in my end of the year reading splurge.
April 12, 2021
My Great Ex-Scape was a pretty fun romcom book to dive into. In it, you will meet Rosie. Now her life kind of got flipped upside down when her boyfriend dumped her on TV. Yikes! On top of that, she receives flowers and a letter from an ex. As to who that ex is exactly.. well, it wasn't from the asshole who dumped her in front of the ENTIRE world.
So Rosie is off on her ex-adventure to figure out who sent her the letter. Honestly this whole thing was a giant hot mess but I couldn't stop laughing. If this ever becomes a movie, I would gladly pop some popcorn and sit down and watch it.
In the end, I definitely enjoyed getting to meet her colorful exes. The impersonator had my dying. Eli was most definitely my favorite. The one thing I probably would have liked more is if she wasn't completely focused on her exes. I get that she got a letter and flowers randomly but girl - find your own happiness first. Worry about your exes later.
So Rosie is off on her ex-adventure to figure out who sent her the letter. Honestly this whole thing was a giant hot mess but I couldn't stop laughing. If this ever becomes a movie, I would gladly pop some popcorn and sit down and watch it.
In the end, I definitely enjoyed getting to meet her colorful exes. The impersonator had my dying. Eli was most definitely my favorite. The one thing I probably would have liked more is if she wasn't completely focused on her exes. I get that she got a letter and flowers randomly but girl - find your own happiness first. Worry about your exes later.
January 12, 2020
A sweet read, this was a typical romcom with bits of romance and comedy and lots of the main character's thoughts.
Rosie won £50,000 but was dumped on national television by her boyfriend. She received a sweet note professing love from an anonymous person. Convinced it was one of her exes, she set out into her past.
My first book by Portia Macintosh, it was a light read between my thrillers. Rosie and her journey were quite humorous at times. The story was pretty straightforward, though some parts were slow. But that could be me as I am used to a much faster pace. Some of her exes were quite fun, especially Eli, who added to the flavor of this book. The other characters added to the story, bringing a new delight down the pages.
Portia's writing showed me Rosie's life and also her travels to find some happiness. I liked the soul searching it did. The message was powerful in the voice of her words that life was about chances, and nothing was set.
Our future is as fluid as life, we just need to keep taking chances...
The book showed me a deep message told in a lighter manner. Overall, quite a fun, introspective read.
Rosie won £50,000 but was dumped on national television by her boyfriend. She received a sweet note professing love from an anonymous person. Convinced it was one of her exes, she set out into her past.
My first book by Portia Macintosh, it was a light read between my thrillers. Rosie and her journey were quite humorous at times. The story was pretty straightforward, though some parts were slow. But that could be me as I am used to a much faster pace. Some of her exes were quite fun, especially Eli, who added to the flavor of this book. The other characters added to the story, bringing a new delight down the pages.
Portia's writing showed me Rosie's life and also her travels to find some happiness. I liked the soul searching it did. The message was powerful in the voice of her words that life was about chances, and nothing was set.
Our future is as fluid as life, we just need to keep taking chances...
The book showed me a deep message told in a lighter manner. Overall, quite a fun, introspective read.
February 22, 2021
3.5 stars
October 23, 2022
I liked this book, I felt so connected to this heroine. At some point I had no luck in love and I guess if I went to a show also someone would have dumped me like that. I liked her journey to finding out who send her flowers. It was a tender and warm time with some and not really nice time with others. But I liked the end anyway couse it make me feel just so good.
December 1, 2020
I loved this story. Such fun!
Rosie isn’t a fan of being in the limelight so is mortified to be hauled out of the audience to participate in a TV quiz show. She’s even more mortified when she phones her boyfriend as a helpline only to have him dump her live on TV. Eek! Fortunately, she still gets the correct jackpot answer from him. She may have lost her boyfriend but she’s gained £50k!
A bunch of flowers arrive after the footage goes viral from an ex claiming to want her back … but with no name. With only four possible exes, Rosie decides to track each one down to find out who sent the flowers and whether their time could be now. The problem is, two of them aren’t living in the UK anymore. But she has £50k in her bank account and no job so why not take a cruise to New York to track down the final two?
Will she find out who sent her the flowers and will she find love? You’ll just have to read My Great Ex-Scape to find out.
I love the way Portia writes. It’s like my best friend is telling me the story, instantly drawing me in. There’s such fabulous warmth and humour. I was willing Rosie to make the right decisions and cringing with her during a few mishaps along the way. Definitely a warm and fuzzy read that will leave you with a big smile on your face.
Rosie isn’t a fan of being in the limelight so is mortified to be hauled out of the audience to participate in a TV quiz show. She’s even more mortified when she phones her boyfriend as a helpline only to have him dump her live on TV. Eek! Fortunately, she still gets the correct jackpot answer from him. She may have lost her boyfriend but she’s gained £50k!
A bunch of flowers arrive after the footage goes viral from an ex claiming to want her back … but with no name. With only four possible exes, Rosie decides to track each one down to find out who sent the flowers and whether their time could be now. The problem is, two of them aren’t living in the UK anymore. But she has £50k in her bank account and no job so why not take a cruise to New York to track down the final two?
Will she find out who sent her the flowers and will she find love? You’ll just have to read My Great Ex-Scape to find out.
I love the way Portia writes. It’s like my best friend is telling me the story, instantly drawing me in. There’s such fabulous warmth and humour. I was willing Rosie to make the right decisions and cringing with her during a few mishaps along the way. Definitely a warm and fuzzy read that will leave you with a big smile on your face.
July 28, 2024
Considering the subject matter of broken hearts and broken relationships and the utter humiliation of being dumped on live television, this story was a lot of fun.
I really liked Rosie and loved tagging along with her on her journey to reconnect with her ex-boyfriends. Primarily, her quest is to discover who sent the flowers and the note, but by the end of the journey, it seemed like she was on a quest more for self-discovery, forgiveness and moving forward.
The sender of the flowers doesn’t come as a surprise to me as I suspected quite early on, but Rosie’s journey to getting there was thoroughly entertaining on its own. My favorite of the exes was Eli. They dated a long time ago and have known each other most of their lives. When Rosie catches up to him, she discovers he’s an image consultant (Rosie could definitely use his help) and is gay. They reconnect and become the best of friends which I absolutely loved. He encourages her to go on a cruise where one of her exes works which will take them to New York to meet up with the final ex.
Rosie finds herself going on a cruise from Liverpool to New York with Eli and her parents. I thought this was a bit strange at first; I mean who wants their parents tagging along on a quest to reconnect with exes to see if they are the one? It worked and it brought Rosie and her parents closer together. I also enjoyed the various reasons why Rosie and each ex didn’t work and loved that Rosie wasn’t bitter about it.
Portia MacIntosh does a fantastic job here creating characters the reader can fall in love with also and situations that will have the reader laughing to tears. I would love to see Eli get his own story, even though it’s assumed there’s a happily ever after in this story for him already. The cruise ship setting was also fun and makes me want to book a cruise myself.
My Final Verdict: Though not everyone would react the same way Rosie did upon receiving the mystery bouquet, the trip she takes down memory lane was a great success, in my opinion. It brought her closer to her parents, brought Eli back into her life as the best friend anyone could ask for, a wonderful vacation trip on a cruise to New York (I’m still undecided on their choice for the best pizza in New York City) and giving Rosie’s confidence and self-esteem a giant boost.
I highly recommend this book to readers who enjoy contemporary romance, romantic comedies and women’s fiction as well as stories that feature fun locations and amazing characters.
Thank you to the publisher, Boldwood Books, who provided an advance reader copy via NetGalley.
I really liked Rosie and loved tagging along with her on her journey to reconnect with her ex-boyfriends. Primarily, her quest is to discover who sent the flowers and the note, but by the end of the journey, it seemed like she was on a quest more for self-discovery, forgiveness and moving forward.
The sender of the flowers doesn’t come as a surprise to me as I suspected quite early on, but Rosie’s journey to getting there was thoroughly entertaining on its own. My favorite of the exes was Eli. They dated a long time ago and have known each other most of their lives. When Rosie catches up to him, she discovers he’s an image consultant (Rosie could definitely use his help) and is gay. They reconnect and become the best of friends which I absolutely loved. He encourages her to go on a cruise where one of her exes works which will take them to New York to meet up with the final ex.
Rosie finds herself going on a cruise from Liverpool to New York with Eli and her parents. I thought this was a bit strange at first; I mean who wants their parents tagging along on a quest to reconnect with exes to see if they are the one? It worked and it brought Rosie and her parents closer together. I also enjoyed the various reasons why Rosie and each ex didn’t work and loved that Rosie wasn’t bitter about it.
Portia MacIntosh does a fantastic job here creating characters the reader can fall in love with also and situations that will have the reader laughing to tears. I would love to see Eli get his own story, even though it’s assumed there’s a happily ever after in this story for him already. The cruise ship setting was also fun and makes me want to book a cruise myself.
My Final Verdict: Though not everyone would react the same way Rosie did upon receiving the mystery bouquet, the trip she takes down memory lane was a great success, in my opinion. It brought her closer to her parents, brought Eli back into her life as the best friend anyone could ask for, a wonderful vacation trip on a cruise to New York (I’m still undecided on their choice for the best pizza in New York City) and giving Rosie’s confidence and self-esteem a giant boost.
I highly recommend this book to readers who enjoy contemporary romance, romantic comedies and women’s fiction as well as stories that feature fun locations and amazing characters.
Thank you to the publisher, Boldwood Books, who provided an advance reader copy via NetGalley.
January 12, 2020
Third time to read a book by Portia MacIntosh for me and third time that i really enjoy my time! "My great ex-scape" is really really good! It's a page-turner book. It's such a fun read, it's extremely entertaining and every chapter brings you new adventures. Oh, how I loved reading this book! I really recommend it if you like chicklit /women's fiction type of book and if you really need a fun book. You will not be disappointed with this one!!!! I am giving this book a 4,5 stars out of 5!!! It's excellent!
July 4, 2020
I’ve tried so hard to finish this book but at 60% I decided to give this up. The first few chapters were really enjoyable but it just become so boring. This is the first book of the year which I have not finished. I am gutted to give it up as I hate leaving books unfinished but life is to short to read bad books🤙🏻
January 21, 2020
My Great Ex-scape by Portia MacIntosh is a fun romantic comedy, that I really enjoyed. Rosie Jones gets dumped while she is on tv, looking back she always gets dumped. When flowers arrive at her door, with a note saying he wants her back. Rosie is determined to find which ex sent them. I found this book to be funny, and perfect for a lighthearted escape. I am looking forward to reading more books by this author. Highly recommend.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
January 5, 2020
My Great Ex-Scape by Portia MacIntosh is described by the publisher as a a "laugh-out loud romantic comedy." When you read such a description, it is only natural to expect a book to be actually funny. Perhaps it is my sense of humour that is at fault, because this book has received generally positive reviews, but I did not find My Great Ex-Scape to be particularly funny at all. Sure, the first few chapters were quite comical - I think I might have even laughed out loud once or twice. However, the humour fell to the wayside, and I found myself slightly bored after a few chapters. There were a few aspects of the storyline which I found amusing, but ultimately I just found My Great Ex-Scape to be, quite frankly, dull.
I wonder if it is just me who thinks this, but I am so tired of the stereotypical gay best-friend trope in novels. If I never have to read about another homosexual male who happens to be the best friend of a heterosexual female and whose only purpose in the novel is to be the gay best friend, then it will still be too soon. I obviously do not take issue with the presence of homosexual/transgender/bi characters in novels, but I am tired of seeing these characters have the exact same personality, or lack thereof. It is something that I feel is so overdone. It is fantastic to have more representation of characters with different sexual preferences in novels, but at the same time I'm not sure its helpful when these characters only serve to talk and act in stereotypical ways. Please, give these characters a unique personality. Don't form all of their characteristics, mannerisms, and personality traits based on the fact that they happen to be gay. It is a real bugbear of mine.
Ultimately I feel that My Great Ex-Scape had potential, but it never really got there for me. Perhaps it is because I am trying to read books with a bit more meaning this year, or maybe even it's because it was the first book I read this year, but I expected more. That being said, if you do happen to enjoy slightly-cheesy, silly, romantic-comedy-esque books, then perhaps My Great Ex-Scape is the book for you. It is not a bad book by any means, it just wasn't the book for me. I think I may have even liked it if I had been sitting in the sun somewhere on holiday, but it is honestly hard to say.
I wonder if it is just me who thinks this, but I am so tired of the stereotypical gay best-friend trope in novels. If I never have to read about another homosexual male who happens to be the best friend of a heterosexual female and whose only purpose in the novel is to be the gay best friend, then it will still be too soon. I obviously do not take issue with the presence of homosexual/transgender/bi characters in novels, but I am tired of seeing these characters have the exact same personality, or lack thereof. It is something that I feel is so overdone. It is fantastic to have more representation of characters with different sexual preferences in novels, but at the same time I'm not sure its helpful when these characters only serve to talk and act in stereotypical ways. Please, give these characters a unique personality. Don't form all of their characteristics, mannerisms, and personality traits based on the fact that they happen to be gay. It is a real bugbear of mine.
Ultimately I feel that My Great Ex-Scape had potential, but it never really got there for me. Perhaps it is because I am trying to read books with a bit more meaning this year, or maybe even it's because it was the first book I read this year, but I expected more. That being said, if you do happen to enjoy slightly-cheesy, silly, romantic-comedy-esque books, then perhaps My Great Ex-Scape is the book for you. It is not a bad book by any means, it just wasn't the book for me. I think I may have even liked it if I had been sitting in the sun somewhere on holiday, but it is honestly hard to say.
April 21, 2022
Emanuela - per RFS
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Classico romanzo con una protagonista, Rosie, che durante un gioco a premi, proprio mentre viene lasciata in diretta telefonica dal suo fidanzato, vince un bel mucchio di sterline. Questo le consentirà di fuggire da un impiego che non la soddisfa e dall’umiliazione sentimentale, partendo con i genitori e un ex, Eli, gay dichiarato, per una crociera di sette giorni.
Un misterioso spasimante, inoltre, le invia fiori e un biglietto che può voler dire tante cose e ciò la spinge a una folle ricerca, tra tutti i suoi ex, di chi le può aver inviato il pensiero.
Proprio durante la crociera rincontrerà Josh, un suo ex grande amore, che si guadagna da vivere cantando a bordo. La storia e la struttura non portano di per sé nessuna novità nel panorama del Chick Lit: la protagonista che fa la giornalista, l’amico gay che sostiene e supporta, i genitori ansiosi, l’ex con il quale è finita male, essenzialmente l’autrice costruisce una trama e analizza i personaggi con stile distaccato e analitico. La cura nel costruire i ragionamenti della giovane ci raccontano la ricostruzione di un rapporto che ormai sembrava non avesse più nulla da dire.
È uno stile di scrittura diverso da quello a cui siamo abituati, più Made in England, ma non sgradevole. Sicuramente una novità interessante.
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Classico romanzo con una protagonista, Rosie, che durante un gioco a premi, proprio mentre viene lasciata in diretta telefonica dal suo fidanzato, vince un bel mucchio di sterline. Questo le consentirà di fuggire da un impiego che non la soddisfa e dall’umiliazione sentimentale, partendo con i genitori e un ex, Eli, gay dichiarato, per una crociera di sette giorni.
Un misterioso spasimante, inoltre, le invia fiori e un biglietto che può voler dire tante cose e ciò la spinge a una folle ricerca, tra tutti i suoi ex, di chi le può aver inviato il pensiero.
Proprio durante la crociera rincontrerà Josh, un suo ex grande amore, che si guadagna da vivere cantando a bordo. La storia e la struttura non portano di per sé nessuna novità nel panorama del Chick Lit: la protagonista che fa la giornalista, l’amico gay che sostiene e supporta, i genitori ansiosi, l’ex con il quale è finita male, essenzialmente l’autrice costruisce una trama e analizza i personaggi con stile distaccato e analitico. La cura nel costruire i ragionamenti della giovane ci raccontano la ricostruzione di un rapporto che ormai sembrava non avesse più nulla da dire.
È uno stile di scrittura diverso da quello a cui siamo abituati, più Made in England, ma non sgradevole. Sicuramente una novità interessante.
January 9, 2020
(I received a digital ARC via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.)
2 stars
My Great Ex-Scape is a decent romantic comedy book. It started out great, I laughed a bit, and I actually kinda like the idea of looking for your exes to find the one (who sent you flowers). I definitely like Rosie's family and Eli. Sadly, the cruise didn't do it for me when it was supposed to be the big thing that brought Rosie on her journey. I got bored in the middle. And by the time Rosie arrived in NY, I want to close the book so bad.
Overall, it had an overwhelming and fun first act, and moved out into a decent category later on.
2 stars
My Great Ex-Scape is a decent romantic comedy book. It started out great, I laughed a bit, and I actually kinda like the idea of looking for your exes to find the one (who sent you flowers). I definitely like Rosie's family and Eli. Sadly, the cruise didn't do it for me when it was supposed to be the big thing that brought Rosie on her journey. I got bored in the middle. And by the time Rosie arrived in NY, I want to close the book so bad.
Overall, it had an overwhelming and fun first act, and moved out into a decent category later on.
August 24, 2021
WOW, the first Portia MacIntosh book that I did not enjoy as much!
Everything is there: the casual writing, the romantic interests, the main character making fools of themselves. Yet, it was not as fluid, as funny, as eventful as the other books.
For the first time, I struggled to read this book. I felt it was too slow, the main girl (in which I already forgot the name) was not relatable and had no chemistry whatsoever with the exes.
To anyone that wants to read this book or did not like this one, I recommend ANY OTHER Portia's book for a fun time reading
Everything is there: the casual writing, the romantic interests, the main character making fools of themselves. Yet, it was not as fluid, as funny, as eventful as the other books.
For the first time, I struggled to read this book. I felt it was too slow, the main girl (in which I already forgot the name) was not relatable and had no chemistry whatsoever with the exes.
To anyone that wants to read this book or did not like this one, I recommend ANY OTHER Portia's book for a fun time reading
January 8, 2021
This book was so lacking in the romance department and is typical of Portia MacIntosh's writing. I tend to read romance novels for the romance part and not so much the fluff that surrounds it and this one was particularly frustrating and unbelievable. I did not find much substance to the romantic reunion and thus did not buy the ending as it wasn't earned. Overall disappointing.
December 18, 2020
Pretty underwhelming - felt like Rosie was a fairly one dimensional character who didn’t do anything and rather just let things happen to her (this was even stated in the beginning).
May 4, 2021
I'm glad I found this author. This book didn't disappoint. A great read with hilarious moments with lost and then found friendships and love.
December 17, 2019
Thanks to the publisher for gifting me with an eproof copy of this novel.
Read more reviews on my blog - Books & Munches!
I remember being only three chapters in and already thinking this story had a very nice flow to it. It doesn't move too quickly, but the progress is on point. Definitely helps in holding your attention while reading. The only thing I noticed that might put others off, is how the main character has a tendency to ramble thoughts. Personally, I wasn't bothered by it, but I can see how others might be.
My favorite character, by far, is Eli, one of Rosie's exes, who's gay. I couldn't help but love his persona, his wanting to help Rosie but challenge her as well. I think we could all use a friend like that!
The setting! Most of the story is set on a cruiseship, which I loved because it's limited but, at the same time, you don't feel like it's that limited. I do wish there'd been more of the story set in New York City, but that's my big-city-loving self speaking, haha.
If there's one thing I got a bit annoyed by, it's how Rosie is extremely focussed on reconnecting with her exes. Not something I'd be keen on doing myself and she focuses on it a lot. You'd think that after the drama she had to go through, she had some emotional damage to take care of, or at least focus on finding a new job but she doesn't do either of those things. She's simply hyper-focused on her exes. It felt a bit wrong to me, but that's probably because I'd stress out about finding a new job as soon as possible myself, haha.
Another thing I only realized after finishing this book, is how the side characters really don't have that much depth. Since I adored Eli, I wish that would've been different. At least his character should've been more developed. He's a huge part of Rosie's story after all.
3.5 / 5
Overall, this was a fun and light read - which is exactly what I needed. The setting is original, the set of characters as well. Even though I thought Rosie's focus not realistic, I still enjoyed seeing her end up in various hilarious situations. Definitely one to read if you're in the mood for some holiday-vibes!
Read more reviews on my blog - Books & Munches!
I remember being only three chapters in and already thinking this story had a very nice flow to it. It doesn't move too quickly, but the progress is on point. Definitely helps in holding your attention while reading. The only thing I noticed that might put others off, is how the main character has a tendency to ramble thoughts. Personally, I wasn't bothered by it, but I can see how others might be.
My favorite character, by far, is Eli, one of Rosie's exes, who's gay. I couldn't help but love his persona, his wanting to help Rosie but challenge her as well. I think we could all use a friend like that!
The setting! Most of the story is set on a cruiseship, which I loved because it's limited but, at the same time, you don't feel like it's that limited. I do wish there'd been more of the story set in New York City, but that's my big-city-loving self speaking, haha.
I have no idea what I'm talking about. Even I've stopped listening to myself babble in my head.
If there's one thing I got a bit annoyed by, it's how Rosie is extremely focussed on reconnecting with her exes. Not something I'd be keen on doing myself and she focuses on it a lot. You'd think that after the drama she had to go through, she had some emotional damage to take care of, or at least focus on finding a new job but she doesn't do either of those things. She's simply hyper-focused on her exes. It felt a bit wrong to me, but that's probably because I'd stress out about finding a new job as soon as possible myself, haha.
Another thing I only realized after finishing this book, is how the side characters really don't have that much depth. Since I adored Eli, I wish that would've been different. At least his character should've been more developed. He's a huge part of Rosie's story after all.
3.5 / 5
Overall, this was a fun and light read - which is exactly what I needed. The setting is original, the set of characters as well. Even though I thought Rosie's focus not realistic, I still enjoyed seeing her end up in various hilarious situations. Definitely one to read if you're in the mood for some holiday-vibes!
February 6, 2020
The second I saw that cover I knew I had to read this book, after all I do love a good cruise. And when a first chapter involves Rosie getting dumped on live TV where all she was trying to do was call him as a "phone a friend" style life line, well the clip goes viral. She does win the money, but needs to escape her life at the same time.
She ends up on a journey to revisit all her ex-boyfriends as she is convinced one of them sent her flowers in the aftermath.
This is one hilarious book, I loved every second of it, especially the cruise, her travelling companions, the fact it was a over 55s cruise line (and she is considerably younger), some of her ex-es are wonderfully entertaining, its just all around one addictively feel good book.
I just couldn't get enough of this story, I even very almost missed my stop on the tube while reading, I didn't even realise I'd left the starting station and suddenly twigged I needed to get off!! Portia MacIntosh has a way with words that really works for me.
I love her storytelling abilities and this is one that felt really fresh to me. The descriptions of the cruise ship all rang true to me, and I would imagine it was possibly based on a Cunard transatlantic sailing, given the way the ship was described and my impressions of Cunard! A magnificent ship, full of activities, formal dining and just keep your eye out for the Michael Buble tribute - he is gorgeous and rather key!
Another simply wonderful book from one of my favourite authors.
Thank you to Boldwood and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
She ends up on a journey to revisit all her ex-boyfriends as she is convinced one of them sent her flowers in the aftermath.
This is one hilarious book, I loved every second of it, especially the cruise, her travelling companions, the fact it was a over 55s cruise line (and she is considerably younger), some of her ex-es are wonderfully entertaining, its just all around one addictively feel good book.
I just couldn't get enough of this story, I even very almost missed my stop on the tube while reading, I didn't even realise I'd left the starting station and suddenly twigged I needed to get off!! Portia MacIntosh has a way with words that really works for me.
I love her storytelling abilities and this is one that felt really fresh to me. The descriptions of the cruise ship all rang true to me, and I would imagine it was possibly based on a Cunard transatlantic sailing, given the way the ship was described and my impressions of Cunard! A magnificent ship, full of activities, formal dining and just keep your eye out for the Michael Buble tribute - he is gorgeous and rather key!
Another simply wonderful book from one of my favourite authors.
Thank you to Boldwood and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
December 5, 2019
This was such a cute read to curl up with. It was refreshing to see Rosie's lovely relationship with her parents. Usually in women's fiction/romantic comedies the titular character has some kind of problem relationship with her parents so it was nice to have such a close and fun relationship between Rosie and her parents.
And that's not all! I also found the newfound relationship between Rosie and Eli to be sweetly wholesome. Great that they were able to move past things and end up in a loving sibling style relationship, seems fun and healthy for the both of them.
My one problem with this read would be with the abrupt ending and the complete turnaround at the end of the book. Seemed a little bit out of character for Rosie and if the book was lengthened I think it would be best to tell more of a detailed ending to this story. What happens next? Would love to read more about life after Silverline Cruises and what exactly was that big hunk of glass even for?
For some reason I inexplicably love fiction that is set on a cruise trip. I've never been on a cruise myself.
My copy was provided by NetGalley for review, all opinions are my own.
And that's not all! I also found the newfound relationship between Rosie and Eli to be sweetly wholesome. Great that they were able to move past things and end up in a loving sibling style relationship, seems fun and healthy for the both of them.
My one problem with this read would be with the abrupt ending and the complete turnaround at the end of the book. Seemed a little bit out of character for Rosie and if the book was lengthened I think it would be best to tell more of a detailed ending to this story. What happens next? Would love to read more about life after Silverline Cruises and what exactly was that big hunk of glass even for?
For some reason I inexplicably love fiction that is set on a cruise trip. I've never been on a cruise myself.
My copy was provided by NetGalley for review, all opinions are my own.
January 30, 2020
What a perfect way to brighten up a dull January. My Great Ex-Scape is the perfect mood lifter if you’re feeling a bit down in the dumps, it’ll certainly put a smile on your face and I can’t believe I’ve never read any of Macintosh’s books before. That will definitely be rectified soon.
Rosie Jones isn’t lucky in love but when she receives a bunch of flowers with a note saying I love you, I should have never let you go, I want you back x after being dumped by Dinosaur Dave on national tv during a game show she decides to use the £50,000 to take a trip down memory lane and find this ex that has declared his love for her.
I loved following Rosie on her journey, she’s a great character and I think anyone could empathise and relate to her. I loved how she picked herself up after such a humiliating situation and watching her learn things about herself was quite uplifting.
I found myself just totally engrossed in this story, it’s one those books that you just don’t want to put down. It’s filled with humour and fun and quirky characters that make you smile and I really didn’t want it to end.
I thoroughly enjoyed every minute reading My Great Ex-Scape, the story flowed well and I found myself totally lost in the pages. There were some real laugh out loud moments and it was just the perfect medicine to brighten up my day.
I’ll definitely be recommending this book and I can’t wait to read more from Portia Macintosh soon.
Rosie Jones isn’t lucky in love but when she receives a bunch of flowers with a note saying I love you, I should have never let you go, I want you back x after being dumped by Dinosaur Dave on national tv during a game show she decides to use the £50,000 to take a trip down memory lane and find this ex that has declared his love for her.
I loved following Rosie on her journey, she’s a great character and I think anyone could empathise and relate to her. I loved how she picked herself up after such a humiliating situation and watching her learn things about herself was quite uplifting.
I found myself just totally engrossed in this story, it’s one those books that you just don’t want to put down. It’s filled with humour and fun and quirky characters that make you smile and I really didn’t want it to end.
I thoroughly enjoyed every minute reading My Great Ex-Scape, the story flowed well and I found myself totally lost in the pages. There were some real laugh out loud moments and it was just the perfect medicine to brighten up my day.
I’ll definitely be recommending this book and I can’t wait to read more from Portia Macintosh soon.
December 18, 2019
My Great Ex-Scape was an enjoyable,entarteining read with such a positive vibe.
Rosie,our heroine,gets to appear on a quiz show, wins £50,000 and to be dumped by her boyfriend on live tv on the same night.No need to say that she unfortunately goes viral and the next day besides the hundreds messages on social networks that wait for her she also gets a bouquet of flowers with a mysterious unsigned message.She wants to find out who sent it to her so she starts a journey who will take her to the most exciting experience of her life.
I really liked to follow her research of happiness.
Portia MacIntosh was so good giving the reader such a great message, in fact, she wants to tell us that even if sometime our life looks crappy the future is not written yet and we have a chance to change it.
"Always take chances, and even if they don't work out, take new ones. You never know what's waiting around the corner that will completely change your life."
I recommend you to read this story,you won't regret to escape on a beautiful transatlantic cruise with our heroine and a group of amusing characters.
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