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On a Night Like This

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It only takes one night to fall in love…

____________________


Within days of wishing she could change her life, Fran Cooper is acting assistant to a celebrity, on a yacht in the Mediterranean, and en route to a tiny Italian island and the glittering Crystal Ball, along with the world’s rich and famous.


When she – quite literally – bumps into a handsome American called Evan, a man able to keep his cool in the face of chaos, the magic really begins.


Evan makes her a promise: no last names, no life stories, just one unforgettable night. Yet Evan belongs at the Crystal Ball and Fran is a gatecrasher. They may be soulmates, but their homes are an ocean apart, and their lives a world apart. They’ll never meet again – unless, on a night like this, everything can change forever…


____________________


Don’t miss the most romantic story of 2022!

342 pages, Paperback

First published November 11, 2021

473 people are currently reading
25660 people want to read

About the author

Lindsey Kelk

50 books5,484 followers
Lindsey Kelk is the Sunday Times bestselling author of books including the I Heart series, On A Night Like This, The Christmas Wish, and One in a Million, along with the middle grade Cinders & Sparks series.

As well as writing books, Lindsey co-hosts the award-winning beauty podcast, Full Coverage, and Tight and Fights, a pro-wrestling podcast on the Maximum Fun network.

Born and raised in South Yorkshire, Lindsey lived in Nottingham, London and New York before settling in LA, where she lives with her husband and two very rude cats.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,578 reviews
Profile Image for Nilufer Ozmekik.
3,115 reviews60.6k followers
December 2, 2022
This book is sweetest cure for my anxious mind! After getting through stressful work days, I was needing something hilarious, smart, entertaining, relaxing! And guess what? Literature gods heard my crying and threw this book on my head! Okay as always I just exaggerated: I wished to read something sweet-soft-sentimental to heal my soul. I saw Lindsey Kelk’s name without reading blurb and instead of Literature gods, dearest Publishing company made my wish come true. I got my copy and started my reading journey ASAP!

Firstly: Cinderella theme mixed with powerful self growth, second chances and friendship themes are inspirationally executed.

The writing style was capturing and enjoyable. You easily get into the story and I honestly loved Fran so much! She’s ideal book-let’s hang out- drink Chardonnay and chat about our exes kind of adorable character. She’s genuine,smart, natural and caring. Just because of her love to other people make her accept less from the life. But it was pleasure to see her personal growth and change. I loved to read her amazing journey!

The other supporting characters Jess,Sarah and Juliette were also well developed. And it was wonderful to see Rachel’s cameo as well.

Even though the cover and the blurb’s definition made us think this is a romance book, it’s more a chic lit, women’s fiction. The story isn’t centered on romance.

I hated the guts of Fran’s douchebag fiancée Stew and I wished she would get rid of him sooner. It took a little more time to be introduced to Prince Charming Evan. We gotta wait till the second half. But it was pleasure to see Fran finally understood she deserved better! And Evan was hundred percent better than Stew who sounds like worst eating choice! Evan was sweet, nice, gentle, caring, a true definition of ideal book boyfriend!

Overall: I loved this book! I normally give four stars to lovely, light, sweet romcoms but the characterization was amazing and Cinderella vibes were perfectly executed so I’m adding additional half star: 4.5 to round up 5 I laughed out loud till I cry, I had great time stars!

Special thanks to NetGalley and Harper 360 for sharing this digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest opinions.
Profile Image for Lit with Leigh.
623 reviews763 followers
December 29, 2022
🚨RING THE ALARM. IT'S A MFN BANGER ALERT🚨

One sentence review: A thoughtful and punchy tale about friendship, personal and professional boundaries, and romantic relationships

SYNOPSIS

Fran's latest temp job as a PA to a moody mega-star pushes her personal relationships and professionalism to the limits.

MY OPINION

WOWZA! Yes, I still have one more book on my Tour de Popcorn Thriller, but a hoe needed a palate cleanse, okay??? I absolutely loved The Christmas Wish and have had THIS book on my "shelf" (pile on my office floor 🫣) for a minute. I'm so glad I picked it up. Another punchy, hilarious, yet introspective banger from Lindsey Kelk.

Now, let me be very, very clear: this is not a romcom. In fact, you don't even meet the love interest until 50% or so. If you're looking for your typically structured romcom, then you'll be sorely disappointed. And as I said in my review of The Christmas Wish, I never dock stars because the publisher decided to "mis-genre" a book. It's really not the authors fault, and I don't think the book's rating should suffer because of it.

Anyways, back to what I was saying. I would slot this as women's fiction. It tackles female friendships, long-term relationships, career struggles, setting boundaries (personally and professionally), and yet there is a lil romance razzle dazzle. But in my irrelevant opinni, this book is about standing up for yourself and going after what you want.

There's lots of pop culture references in here, but again, Google is free if you're lost. I love Kelk's brand of humour. It's pander-free and very relatable. Also, any book that mentions Terry's Chocolate Oranges is an auto-banger. No one, and I mean NO ONE, loves those lil orangey chocolate delights more than me. Do I stock pile them every time they come back in stores for Christmas? Perhaps. Mind yours.

Kelk did a great job writing a MC you can't help but like. Fran really reminded me of Jess from New Girl. She's got a big ole heart and may be a wee bit naive, but she's a hard worker and she never gives up. Tbh, Evan was a bit of an afterthought personality wise, but let me yeet my feminist card out the window, because a normal multi-millionaire?? Why yes I AM a damsel in distress. Save me PLZ!!!!! I'm TIREDTTT of Great Value paper towels. Gimme dat Bounty, expeditiously. That's all I ask.

All in all: a banger. I loved the themes and messages, I loved the humor, and I loved the introspectiveness. When Kelk wrote about how Fran wasn't even surprised that her mans cheated on her because her mom told her 24/7 all men cheat, I was like damn... why did I ever pay for a therapist?? LOL.

If you're looking for a light, fast-paced, funny read, this is thee one. If you're looking for romance or explicit smut, turn yo ass around. Wrong direction.

PROS AND CONS

Pros: thoughtfully written, strong themes and messages, great MC, witty, bants were bantering

Cons: naddaaaaaaa!
Profile Image for Paromjit.
3,080 reviews26.3k followers
October 24, 2021
Lindsey Kelk writes a lovely escapist rom-com, a contemporary version of Cinderella, a light, warm and fun delight of a novel. 32 year old Francesca Cooper is engaged, she has been with boyfriend Stew for 12 years since university, leaving behind her beloved London to move with him to Sheffield when he inherited his nanna's house. Fran is a temp out of choice, she prides herself on being an efficient assistant, but in the run up to Christmas she is out of work and feeling anxious. When best friend Jess tells her to think out of the box, she gets in touch with an old contact who tells there is an assistant job that will last 5 days, a job that Fran would be perfect for, but she has to sign an NDA agreement prior to the London interview. Despite having promised Stew she would not take jobs that took her away from home, Fran jumps at the opportunity, and finds herself working for the famous celebrity singer, Juliette.

To her surprise she is making her way to Italy and then boarding a billionaire's yacht, The Songbird, making its way to the island of Panarea in the Mediterranean. Juliette is set to perform at the exclusive Crystal Ball, and it's Fran's job to make sure that nothing derails this purpose. This turns out to be easier said than done, Juliette turns out to be nothing like Fran expected, she is friendly and not the difficult diva that she has a reputation for being. However, for the first time Fran struggles to fulfill her responsibilities as she fails to stop Juliette's drinking. After a drunken night in which she gets completely plastered with Juliette, she wakes up to find an unco-operative Juliette declaring that she has no intention of honouring her obligation to sing at the Ball. Stranded on Panarea, Fran uncharacteristally gatecrashes the Crystal Ball in a beautiful designer gown and trainers, experiencing a night to remember when she meets the unforgettably charming Evan.

The romance elements of the novel play a minor role in this entertaining modern day fairytale, this is more about the self effacing Fran, with a talent for fading into the background, sacrificing who she is and her needs, to support Stew and others around her. With input from Juliette and Evan, Fran's world, as she knows it, begins to painfully collapse around her as she faces up to the hard and testing challenges in her path. She can no longer ignore the holes in her relationship with Stew, but as she readjusts her life so that it reflects who she is, she is blessed to be supported by the irrepressible Jess, and has gained a job that makes her happy as she gears up to the first Christmas celebrations in a long time that bring joy into her life. This is a feel good read to pick up when you want a much needed lift in your life and is the perfect read in the run up to the festive season. Many thanks to the publisher for an ARC.
Profile Image for Darla.
4,820 reviews1,225 followers
January 6, 2022
This was just what I needed after spending time with Frankie Elkin (One Step Too Far). Francesca (no kidding, another Frankie) finds herself as a temporary PA for a mega pop star and on her way to Italy. Surely she can keep the music diva on schedule for five days, right? Not so fast. This has some Cinderella elements and I loved the way Kelk told this lovely tale with so much humor while modelling some excellent coping skills. You might find this to be a self-help title as well. And get ready for some tall, dark, and handsome. . . This is the romance you need in your 2022. Trust me. You will love it!

Thank you to HarperCollins and Edelweiss+ for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Em Lost In Books.
1,057 reviews2,273 followers
February 11, 2022
Francesca was offered to be a personal assistant of a high profile celebrity for one week. NDAs were signed and she was fairly warned about this famous singer, Juliette, but when Francesca meets her she find that Juliette is not the monster what everyone claims her to be. Juliette is about to sing in this high huge event attended by big celebrities and rich of the town. Things take a U-turn and Francesca find herself in the event minus Juliette. What ensues was a night of madness, ups and downs, and meeting someone special.

I divide this book in two parts, one where she spent time with Juliette and second where she spent time with Evan. While this is a rom-com, sadly to say I didn't like the "rom" part. It was the friendship between Francesca and Juliette that impressed me the most. It was super fun, and was a healing time for the two girls. The banter was smooth unlike the romance part that felt like it had to be there for this is a romance book.

I had a good time reading it and will recommend if someone is look for a light read.
Profile Image for ♥︎ Heather ⚔ (New House-Hiatus).
990 reviews4,853 followers
Want to read
April 25, 2024
I've got so many series going right now and they're all freaking tomes I swear. I feel like I need something cute, quick, romantic and easy.

Lindsey Kelk- you're up! 🤍🩵💙
Profile Image for Rosh ~catching up slowly~.
2,377 reviews4,888 followers
November 13, 2021
What do you expect from a story that begins with the words: ”Once upon a time in a great kingdom"? A fairy tale, right? And that’s exactly what this book delivers: a love story that isn’t realistic but pretty enjoyable.

Story:
Fran Cooper has been with Stewart for like forever (okay, twelve years), but the relationship seems to have settled into the mundane and lost its charm. While she is pondering over what she needs to do to get her life back on its earlier track, a fabulous opportunity lands at her doorstep: a temporary job as the personal assistant to a demanding VVIP diva. Soon, she finds herself on a yacht around the Mediterranean and en route to a one-of-a-kind party named “The Crystal Ball”, attended by and affordable to only the filthy rich. This night ends up changing a lot for Fran, not just professionally but also personally.
The story comes to us in the first person perspective of Fran.


Where the book clicked for me:
✔ The love story isn’t the main theme of the story. It is more focussed on Fran’s coming into her own and taking a firm stance to rejuvenate her life. Friendship is also given a greater role to play than romance.

✔ There are plenty of hilarious moments in the story. Fran’s talks with herself are quite funny and a few will even leave you snorting.

✔ Her best friend Jess is the kind of friend everyone would love to have. I loved her character! (Can we please have a spinoff with Jess in the lead?)

✔ While the story is quite evidently based on Cinderella’s fairy tale, the way the author has incorporated contemporary relationship issues within the traditional tale is worth mentioning.

✔ The perils of being a celebrity are woven fairly well into the storyline.

✔ A very common trope in recent romances is how thirty-something women are in long relationships with a jerk and only a getaway/(casual appearance of a potential new mate/old flame) makes them realise how bad things are. While a certain part of that is applicable to this book too, I liked how Fran already knew that her relationship was in trouble and she was wondering if and how to fix it. That is much more believable that a woman living blindly on cloud nine and then dropping suddenly into reality and romantic disillusionment.

✔ The ending is written really well. I don’t expect many surprises in romance because everyone knows how things will go, and yet there were a couple of things (trivial but still cute) that surprised me at the finale.

✔ It’s a quick read.


Where the book could have worked better for me:
⚠ The story goes way over the top after about 40%. Many situations felt impossible and/or unbelievable. So if you can suspend your disbelief and go with the flow, you'll enjoy it better.

⚠ One of the potential romantic leads makes a hot initial appearance but soon his character is given different shades. The other potential romantic lead doesn’t make an appearance until more than half of the book has passed by. While this is a wonderful surprise and leaves you in anticipation for the appearance of the right “Prince Charming”, it also means that the connection between the leads feels sudden and inexplicable.

⚠ Those who are all for “love at first sight” and “sparks on first touch” and “insta-connections” will certainly make googly heart eyes at the magical link between Fran and her new beau, but others who are more like me (jaded, practical, disillusioned souls 😂) might just end up rolling their eyes.

⚠ Fran and Jess are the only characters who are carved well enough. The rest are a bit flat in comparison and their decisions and actions sometimes feel bizarre. (If I am reading a romance and I don’t feel a thing for the male lead, that’s doesn’t bode well for my experience with the book. I need a loveable and connectable fella in the story!)


All in all, this is still a decent romance and will make most its readers happy. Pick it up if you are looking for an escapist Cinderella retelling set in the contemporary world.

3.5 stars from me, rounding up to 4.

My thanks to HarperCollins UK and NetGalley for the ARC of “On a Night Like This”. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.




***********************
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Profile Image for  A. .
1,166 reviews5,124 followers
November 19, 2021
3.5 Stars

Lindsey Kelk … Believe it or not, she is the very reason I joined Goodreads. I mean, I'd been an avid reader before but I rarely read in English. Then, one day about twelve years ago, during a short business trip to the UK I walked into a bookstore and treated myself to an LK book. I read it in record time and I wanted to find a similar book. I start googling the author and found a website with gazillion authors and books. The rest is history.

I stopped reading British chick lit after some time, though. I really don't know why. I guess Goodreads opened up a whole new world of authors and books and book buddies, and suddenly I was swept away. Then Fifty Shades happened and suddenly everybody started reading hardcore romance books.



I kind of lost myself in that trend. Suddenly I had to read every new shiny book I saw in my feed no matter whether or not I liked the cover, the blurb or the author.

Eventually, I got fed up with it all. Slump after slump, trying to push through the recycled stories I didn't really like, I got burnt out. Reading started to feel like a chore. I turned to romantic suspense and then to mysteries and thrillers after that. It was the right thing to do.

So reading this book was a real blast from the past. It gave me that warm, homey feeling. And I loved everything about this book except Fran and Evan's romance.



In my defense, I have to point out that Cinderella romance is not my jam. Rainbows and unicorns, destined (insta) love, sappy interactions, perfect heroes, clueless heroines… are not my thing. Somehow, I always look for realism and imperfect characters in my books. It's not that I'm not a romantic person because I am. I just need something relatable, something believable and plausible I can grasp onto when I read.

So I almost gave up on this book. But Kelk's wit and humor hold me prisoner and I just didn't have the heart to discard it into my DNF pile. I'm so glad I didn't give up. While this was by no means my favorite Kelk's book, I ended up enjoying it a lot. And it turned out the story was relatable… ish despite its annoying fairy tale characteristics.

But most importantly, this book helped me find my way back to chick lit.

Profile Image for Nancy.
605 reviews538 followers
February 21, 2023
This book wasn't what I expected but in a good way. Yes, this book gives off Cinderella vibes, but I wouldn't classify it as a rom-com since the romance part of it is minor in comparison to the themes of self discovery and friendship.

Going against her despicable fiancé's wishes, Fran takes a job as a PA and isn't told much about the job except that she will be working for someone very famous and will have to sign a non-disclosure agreement prior to starting.

In the beginning, I honestly wanted to shake Fran. Her willingness to turn a blind eye was both frustrating and sad. Despite that, I really liked Fran a lot and wanted her to see her value and to find her HEA anywhere but with that douchebag fiancé of hers. The humor in the book was right up my alley. Fran was quite funny and I found myself laughing quite a bit. Yes it was predictable in parts and there was an instant attraction, but in this case it worked and didn't irritate me which is a good thing. My first Lindsey Kelk book, but definitely not my last. 4 stars.
Profile Image for Susanne.
1,206 reviews39.3k followers
January 1, 2023
Another winner by Lindsey Kelk! After having read In Case You Missed It, I knew I had to read this. I really enjoyed this story and found liked the chemistry between Fran and Evan and adored how their story progressed. After having read this, I can't wait for the next book from this author. 3.5 Stars.
Profile Image for Nina (ninjasbooks).
1,588 reviews1,660 followers
November 14, 2021
Between reading dark and twisty books, I just need something lighthearted and uplifting to shake off the chill. Reading Kelk’s newest book really managed to lift my spirits and make me think about where I am in life and how important it is to follow your dreams and stand up for yourself. Fran was a lovely character, easy to like. I also loved the love story, which wasn’t too cliché. A must-read it you just want to feel good about the world or escape it for some lovely hours:
Profile Image for Brogan Tate.
98 reviews846 followers
February 22, 2023
This is one of those books you just know is going to be a comfort read from the very beginning. I absolutely loved picking this up and falling into Fran’s world. Lindsey’s writing is brilliant, so funny and perfectly British. If you need something light and wholesome, this is for you.
Profile Image for Bianca thinksGRsucksnow.
1,316 reviews1,144 followers
December 31, 2021
This was an impulsive add to my audiobook queue that paid off big time. It's what I'd call a smart romance novel.
I found it utterly charming, with realistic characters and possible situations and ending. Francesca(Fran) was an endearing character, the nice woman next door (trying to get over calling women girls, although I still slip often), who finds herself in a work situation that pulls her out of her comfort zone and opens up new horizons.

No saccharine or other artificial sweeteners were to be found on the pages of this novel.
On A Night Like This was a very enjoyable novel to end my reading year.

Best wishes for 2022!
Profile Image for Srivalli (Semi-Hiatus).
Author 23 books727 followers
November 11, 2021
**Happy Publication Day**

*****

4 Stars

One Liner: Lighthearted, warm, and comforting.

Fran Cooper is looking for a job that doesn’t require traveling. She’s been an assistant to various corporate personalities in the past. However, not finding any decent job makes her give a shot at being the PA of a mysterious celebrity for an event.

The job takes her to a yacht that sails from London to Italy for The Crystal Ball event. Juliette, an international singer, is Fran’s boss and will be performing at the event.

However, things don’t go as planned. Fran gets a chance to enjoy the ball, wearing a fabulous gown and having a time of her life. Despite her initial hesitation, Fran enters the ball and has adventures, some of which she could’ve done without.

Yet, the event changes her. It helps her come to terms with things in her life and make decisions she should’ve made a long time ago.

Many reviewers have pointed out the Cinderella-like feel of the story. In fact, there’s a reference to the fairytale a couple of times. The book is a lighthearted contemporary fiction that still deals with issues like relationships, friendships, knowing one’s true desire, and so on.

The book is written in the first person from Fran’s perspective, and it was indeed a delight to read. She’s smart, funny, and caring; a little too caring, which leads to her suffering in silence and accepting less than what she deserves. The story takes us through her self-realization, her growth, and finally, her finding true love.

Romance isn’t the central point of the book. We still have HEA, though. Fran’s been engaged to Stew, someone I’d gladly drown in a piping hot stew. Luckily, Fran meets Evan in the second half of the book, and he’s such a sweet and understanding guy. His outlook about life and calling it a jigsaw puzzle was rather interesting to read. That guy is a keeper.

Other characters like Jess, Sarah, Juliette, and even Rachel (who’s there in the book for only a couple of chapters) are full of life and have defined personalities. Sure, the story relies on well-known tropes and doesn’t really have anything new to offer.

Yet, it’s a warm and cheerful story to read. There’s comfort in picking up such books, and this one doesn’t disappoint. Not even when Fran says and does things that’ll make us roll our eyes (Such instances are not too many. Her arc is better than other ramblings heroines).

To sum up, On a Night Like This is a funny, sweet, quirky, and light read. It’s a perfect breather between heavy books. It also has a great pace despite being 380+ pages long.

Thank you, NetGalley and Harper Collins, for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Donna Weber ( Recuperating from Surgery).
502 reviews207 followers
March 23, 2022
After just finishing The 100 years of Lenni and Margot, I was in the mood for a much lighter read. I'm not a huge rom-com reader, but the timing of getting this Kindle book was just right.
I would consider this more light women's fiction, than a romance book, which was okay with me.
Though a light read, it's deceptively deeper than it appears, touching on many tough issues.
Was in implausable and over the top at times? Yes. But besides delving into the intricacies and development of positive female friendships and touching on why people often stay in toxic relationships, the book had so many laugh out loud moments, it was just what I needed.
The main character is a bit sweet and somewhat kooky, just like the book itself, but shows tremendous growth. I'm not necessarily into Cinderella like storylines, but I couldn't help but to root for her, especially since she absolutely cracked me up at times! Fun, escapist type of read, that came at a good time.
Profile Image for Mary.
2,249 reviews612 followers
April 22, 2022
4.5/5

I knew from reading the first few paragraphs of On a Night Like This by Lindsey Kelk that I was going to love it, and guess what I did! I can't even count on 2 hands the number of times I laughed while reading this, and the brand of humor Kelk uses is the exact kind I love. The characters are also incredibly endearing (well, minus Fran's fiancé), and I adored both Fran and Evan. Fran goes on quite the adventure when she starts a short-term job for a celebrity, and I really loved Kelk's descriptions of all of the scenery and the beautiful dresses at the Crystal Ball. There were some great one-liners that I really wish I had written down, and I couldn't help but get a kick out of the reference to Peloton towards the end. Which actually makes somewhat more sense now that I know this author co-hosts a podcast called Tights and Fights!

I picked this up simply because I wanted to, and not because I had it from the publisher, and I am not regretting my decision at all. I got both the physical book and audiobook from the library, and the audiobook was exceptionally done. Carrie Hope Fletcher is the narrator, and she was both a lot of fun to listen to and great at conveying every single emotion these characters had. On a Night Like This is a romcom that I could definitely see making a wonderful movie, and it really did give me all the feels. I was excited to see that Kelk has a pretty extensive backlist, and I know where I am going to go now if I need something that will make me laugh and touch my heart. I highly recommend this to any reader looking for a lighter romcom to help them escape from real life for a while.
Profile Image for Victoria.
368 reviews3 followers
January 5, 2022
I received an advanced reader's copy of this. Let me start out by saying I haven't even finished this book as I'm writing this review. But there is no saving this story for me. I am all for a slow burn, if it is worth it in the end. But I had to read over half the book before she even MET her love interest. It seems that the author is just taking popular things (Taylor Swift, Justin Bieber, the show Killing Eve) and trying to make it relevant to the story. But they are mentioned so out of left field you're kinda left with a "what the fuck?" Kinda thought. At 168 pages in, I can't bring myself to not finish it, but I also can't waste any more time trying to read through it. So skimming through the rest I will be back to update once, done.

Edit: I have finished skimming the book. And though I still found many mistakes, I eventually looked pass them to just finish the story. Stew, the fiance, is a total prick and made me very angry any time his character was brought in. Evan was sweet, the boy every girl dreams of finding. It had a Happily Ever After, which I am thankful for. But it was very rushed. In the matter of a week, she got a new job, got fired from that job, got stranded somewhere with literally nothing, met the man of her dreams, broke up with her fiance, and got a different new job. And then quickly rushed through after the Crystal Ball party to her and Evan finding each other again.

If a slow burn, no spice type of book is what you are looking for, look no further. This is it. But if you need a bit of spice, or maybe for the two love interests to meet each other sooner than over halfway through the book, this isn't the book for you.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Natalie "Curling up with a Coffee and a Kindle" Laird.
1,398 reviews103 followers
November 7, 2021
What a wonderful read, right when I needed it.
Just wrap me up in a duvet with a hot drink, and then come back when I've finished!
This was a gorgeous book, that made me laugh out loud (I love Kelk's sense of humour and this shone through) and gave me all the feels I wanted!
Fran was a fantastic character, one I would love to be friends with, and she was the perfect one for the scenarios she found herself in.
A modern take on 'Cinderella' and I adored it. Kelk has crafted a belter.
Profile Image for Kelly (and the Book Boar).
2,819 reviews9,510 followers
January 3, 2023
I picked this up because in a sea of lackluster Christmas reads, I really dug The Christmas Wish. Of course, I have yet to review that one, because let’s face it . . .



Sadly On a Night Like This made me feel the major *womp wommmmmmp*. As I said above, I picked this up from the library immediately after finishing the aforementioned winning holiday romcom. I didn’t look at the blurb (but we all know I more than dibble dabble in some cartoony cover). And speaking of cover – I truly thought it was a bait and switch. You see the story here is our leading lady is an out of work PA who reaches out to a temp agency and lands a high paying weeklong gig working for a pop superstar in advance of the charity gala of the year in which said superstar will be the headliner. Juliette’s reputation proceeds her, but Fran is pleasantly surprised to find not only a human behind the persona, but a nice one at that . . . until the day of the event where she pulls a real Jekyll and Hyde. At that point this book completely jumped the shark for me when Fran had a (literal) run-in with some handsome fella at whatever the European equivalent of a Bodega is, got fired, crashed the party and things morphed into a Cinderall retelling.

What. The. Actual. Eff??????

This was a mess. The first half of the story was pretty much just . . . . a waste of time? Or more like wasted potential. If you love Disney princess retellings, maybe this is for you? But the whirlwind night of tarot card reading and carnival games and silent auction and slapstick comedy was most definitely NOT for me. Fran and Juliette had the chemistry that was lacking with Evan. They had the developed plotline. They had the third act “breakup” that made sense and they should have been two girls kissing at the end. Evan Shmevan. He and his whole storyline was nothing but a cardboard cutout.

2 Stars for what could have been.
Profile Image for Steph ✨.
684 reviews1,608 followers
January 9, 2022
As always, a wonderful read from Lindsey. Albeit not one of my favourite from her, I did still love it. I loved Fran, Juliette, Rachel, Evan and Jess. Lindsey really does smash her characters and their development. She knows how to write friendships as well as relationships. Fran was a real badass and her glow up throughout the book was wonderful to see. Also, I appreciated the whole "i don't need a man, I just want that one" vibe from her too. As a 32 year old woman, I relate!
Profile Image for Lisa (Remarkablylisa).
2,518 reviews1,813 followers
July 12, 2022
2.5 stars really. This one was... Slow. I like some aspects of the women fiction part where our heroine tries to find herself and dump her sleezy fiance who she does not love anymore. But there's just not much development between our hero and hero until much much later on which is a huge drag. I also didn't like the realistic but annoying third act breakup.
Profile Image for Nic.
584 reviews23 followers
September 21, 2021
⭐️⭐️ 2 average stars. Maybe I am reading a different book from the other reviewers but for me this was just ok.

Annoying and cliched characters, cheesy romantic gestures and a weird storyline involving a hidden bedroom.

Not for me sorry.
Profile Image for Maddy.
653 reviews24 followers
November 13, 2021
This story would make a fabulous Disney Movie and I really enjoyed it. It was a little predictable and not very true to life, but if you love an enchanting romance this book is for you.

Fran Cooper's life is a bit of a mess. Her controling fiance has stopped her doing the job she wanted as he doesn't like her traveling, they live in a house that used to belong to his Nana and is still a shrine to her, and he shows her little or no affection - he keeps that for his ex girlfriend. When Fran gets a call from one of the agencies she works for who are being very secretive about the job on offer, Fran decided to go to London for the interview, very much against her boyfriend's wishes.

This is the job that will change Fran's life. She will turn from the average duckling to the beautiful swan, and meet some exciting new people who will change her forever.

A lovely, fun, fast story which will take you into the realms of fantasy, and leave you smiling.

https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Profile Image for Wendy W..
517 reviews184 followers
October 29, 2021
Four and a half stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭒

On a Night Like This by Lindsey Kelk is a perfect escapism book. This delightful story will make you laugh, cry and take you on an amazing journey with these characters. In a nod to Cinderella, we get to go to a fabulous ball on an Italian island and a trip on a fabulous yacht.

Fran Cooper works as an administrataive assistant for a temporary agency. She mostly works for CEO’s and corporate clients who need an administrative assistant for short term jobs. She gets a last minute assignment to assist a mysterious person, and when she arrives she finds out it’s superstar, singer Juliette. Also, she has to travel with her on a yacht in the Mederterranean sea and make sure she goes to the Crystal Ball, a very exclusive charity event on the Island a Panera.

On a Night Like This is pure fantasy and escapism. It’s fun, bright, heartwarming and just a delight to read. I really enjoyed the characters, and thought they were very well developed and I truly cared about them. The plot was a bit unrealistic at times, but I didn’t mind it at all. The story pulled me along and I never felt it dragged and I enjoyed the over-the-top storyline very much. This book will sweep you off your feet and give you that Cinderella feeling.

I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a romantic escape. I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Profile Image for Jennifer (Jaye).
1,098 reviews64 followers
July 25, 2022
*The Making of Fran*

Fran has spent her life doing things that make others happy. She has never really valued herself. She was a personal assistant in London with a boyfriend who inherits his Grans house in Yorkshire. As she travelled a lot for work they agreed no more travelling and in Yorkshire they take different jobs. They seem to be chugging along with the motions until a possible job opportunity comes up for Fran, she is unfulfilled is this what she is looking for?

This job is in London and it means she will be away for at least 5 days. She tries to explain to her boyfriend he doesn’t seem interested as he thinks they should stick to their plan not to travel

Fran decides to go and the job is top secret and it involves signing an NDA. The job is looking after a celebrity and Fran would be travelling by Yacht.

Little does Fran know her whole life is about to change and she finally realises what she wants and how she will achieve it. During these days away she literally bumps into someone who rocks her world. Will he factor into her life and what she wants for herself…..

A great book ideal an escapism’s dream
Profile Image for Sarah | Kerosene.Lit.
1,138 reviews653 followers
June 4, 2023
While I didn’t love this particular story, I still adore Lindsey Kelk’s witty writing. It immediately pulls you in!

But sadly, this book was a miss for me. I tend to not love reading about celebrity culture in general, but my main issue was the contrast between the first and second half. It was very disjointed—like two completely different stories.

It begins with Fran Cooper being granted the position of a lifetime: onboard a yacht in the Mediterranean working as a temporary PA for singer / celebrity Juliette.

The first half (maybe more) focuses solely on her career and blooming friendship with Juliette. It had nice moments of self-growth, but the synopsis promises a Cinderella-esque night with a stranger …

That storyline doesn’t happen until much, MUCH later.

And when it does, it made me question the purpose of the lengthy beginning. The transition to the whirlwind romantic evening between Fran and Evan was … jarring. Their relationship develops so fast, I unfortunately found it impossible to truly connect to it.

(heat level: kissing only)
Profile Image for Kelly • Kell of a Read.
809 reviews302 followers
December 19, 2022
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I loved this book! I’m on a mission to make Lindsey Kelk my bff after falling in love with The Christmas Wish and her fantastic sense of humor. Since that is a bit of a lofty goal, I’ve decided to read all her books while I wait. Patience is a virtue and all that jazz.

On a Night Like This was so much fun. I absolutely love British chick lit and when the plot involves a charming thirty something finding herself and figuring out her career goals, I’m a very happy camper. I laughed out loud so many times but I also enjoyed the self reflection and themes of friendship.

Of note, this is not your typical romcom. The love interest is really more of an afterthought and not a key player in the story. He’s sweet and swoony and you’re totally going to root for him, but at the end of the day this is Fran’s story and she doesn’t *need* a man to be happy.

🎧 the audiobook was fabulous!
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