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Swipe Right
The love of your life might be in your phone… or he could be standing right in front of you.
When Fran meets Ollie, it’s eye-roll at first sight. Who does he think he is – with his Ray-Bans, piss-taking and artfully styled hair? But forced into working together at a trendy media content agency, they soon realise that they could be BFFs.
When Fran’s relationship crumbles and Ollie sets off on a round-the-world trip with his girlfriend, Fran decides to start an anonymous dating column. Detailing all the perils of dating online, Fran begins to wonder: maybe there aren’t plenty more fish in the sea?
But Fran’s about to learn that sometimes love can be where you least expect it… you just have to put down your phone.
When Fran meets Ollie, it’s eye-roll at first sight. Who does he think he is – with his Ray-Bans, piss-taking and artfully styled hair? But forced into working together at a trendy media content agency, they soon realise that they could be BFFs.
When Fran’s relationship crumbles and Ollie sets off on a round-the-world trip with his girlfriend, Fran decides to start an anonymous dating column. Detailing all the perils of dating online, Fran begins to wonder: maybe there aren’t plenty more fish in the sea?
But Fran’s about to learn that sometimes love can be where you least expect it… you just have to put down your phone.
Audiobook
Published February 9, 2021
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 202 reviews
June 12, 2020
Just finished this and I HAVE SO MANY FEEEEEELINGS. I absolutely gobbled this book up and I did REALLY enjoy it, but it definitely wasn't without it's issues. Aside from the cheating (which didn't really bother me a ton, but I wanted to mention it briefly bc I know that's a hard no for some people), there was a distasteful comment made towards the end about polyamory that REALLY rubbed me wrong. This book could have easily been a strong 4 or a 4.5 for me because the characters were great and had SO MUCH CHEMISTRY, but I took it down to a 3 because that one line soured my overall enjoyment and I am BUMMED about it. Womp :(
TW: cheating, revenge porn, gaslighting
TW: cheating, revenge porn, gaslighting
May 8, 2020
“As Harry puts it, men and women can never be friends because 'the sex part always gets in the way.”
― Nora Ephron, When Harry Met Sally
I've always loved the movie, When Harry Met Sally, and it was obviously used as inspiration for this story. Unfortunately, while Harry and Sally were funny and endearing, Ollie and Fran were not. I found them both mildly annoying, and their voices sounded WAY older than the twenty-somethings they were. Their chemistry was seriously lacking. The timeline jumped forward so frequently, I guess we were to assume they were spending far more time together than we were told.
My favorite part of the entire book was Fran's description of her time spent with "the musician." I literally laughed out loud, and added an extra star for that chapter alone.
This is a cutesy, sweet novel, but offered nothing new.
Available for purchase May 13th, 2020.
**Many thanks to the publisher for my review copy.
May 19, 2020
Fun and flirty. Stephie Chapman has written an engaging enemies to friends to lovers Will they won’t they story. Fran and Ollie meat when they are both interviewing for the same job. Fran instantly does not like Ollie, but when they both get the job and start working together they start to form a friendship. There is definitely chemistry between the two, but they are both involved with other people. Time goes by and the bond deepens between Fran and Ollie, Fran and her boyfriend break up. Newly single Fran starts to write a column about her experience with dating using a dating app. What follows is a cute story filled with right swipes, bad dates, cute costumes, fun parties, tacos and guacamole, pub nights, and complicated relationships.
Fran was a fun relatable character that I’d love to be friends with. I was glad to see her end things with her boyfriend Lucas, he definitely did not deserve her, but I was not always convinced that Ollie deserved her either. This book is compared to one of my favorite romcom movies “When Harry Met Sally”, and I can see it. As far as the friends to lovers trope and the can men and women ever truly be just friends question. Although I don’t think Harry ever dated anyone as unlikable as Ollie’s girlfriend Lou. I mean I understand why she did not like Fran, I probably wouldn’t either given the circumstances, but she just seemed angry. So I think the fact that I didn’t always understand Ollie and Lou’s relationship took a little bit away from the book for me. But I did love Fran and her friends, they were very there for her. I also had fun reading about Fran’s really bad dates, and wow did she have some bad luck. This was a charming escapist read with some delightful characters, humorous moments, and a sweet very slow burn romance.
This book in emojis 📱 📹 🌮 ✈️ 👩❤️💋👨
*** Big thank you to Hera Books for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
Fran was a fun relatable character that I’d love to be friends with. I was glad to see her end things with her boyfriend Lucas, he definitely did not deserve her, but I was not always convinced that Ollie deserved her either. This book is compared to one of my favorite romcom movies “When Harry Met Sally”, and I can see it. As far as the friends to lovers trope and the can men and women ever truly be just friends question. Although I don’t think Harry ever dated anyone as unlikable as Ollie’s girlfriend Lou. I mean I understand why she did not like Fran, I probably wouldn’t either given the circumstances, but she just seemed angry. So I think the fact that I didn’t always understand Ollie and Lou’s relationship took a little bit away from the book for me. But I did love Fran and her friends, they were very there for her. I also had fun reading about Fran’s really bad dates, and wow did she have some bad luck. This was a charming escapist read with some delightful characters, humorous moments, and a sweet very slow burn romance.
This book in emojis 📱 📹 🌮 ✈️ 👩❤️💋👨
*** Big thank you to Hera Books for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
![Profile Image for Jessi ❤️ H. Vojsk [if villain, why hot?].](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/users/1746468325i/66224803._UX200_CR0,0,200,200_.jpg)
May 30, 2020
Shall we pretend, Fran, just for a few moments, that we don’t belong to anyone else?
Story 🌟🌟🌟🌟
This book is filled with many topics, like:
- how toxic some relationships can be (and maybe you don’t realize it or maybe just too late)
- how it is to date in a modern world (surrounded by assholes, sexist or people who objectify you. People who think paying for food means getting laid after)
- how dangerous it can be to send naughty pictures of yourself to someone
- how it is when two people meet, that could be great together, but it’s not the right time for them
But even though I loved it and I enjoyed it immensely I think sometimes there were parts that weren’t necessary and could’ve been cut out.
Characters 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Relatable /
Favorite: Fran (and Carlina, because she was such a good friends and so funny!)
Also: I was in love with the side characters, the supportive colleagues, boss, friends...
Relationships 🌟🌟🌟🌟
‘A date you go on to suppress the niggling feeling that you’re secretly deeply in love with your colleague who ran off around the world with his girlfriend.’
Like I said this book had many different topics, that are all in their own way really important.
The book itself is written in Frans Point of view so we get to see how she grows as a person, how great or terrible some dating experience can be.
How she realizes too late that Ollie isn’t just her best friend or work husband.
He could be more.
But there is one thing holding both back: they’re in a relationship with someone.
So it’s not the right time for them.
But maybe, just maybe, the right time will come...
Also I was in love with the relationship presented here:
Those two had a good vibe, they got along perfectly even though they argued sometimes, they listened to each other, were being supportive of each other, had insiders and jokes etc etc.
To be honest while reading this book I was sometimes really mad or sad at both of them. Or at the world. Or at the book.
But I also was happy and giggly sometimes, so I guess that’s normal.
That book made me feel some things and I think when books make you do that, they are good books.
Writing style 🌟🌟🌟🌟
If someone can’t be bothered to invest in an interesting profile when they’re trying to make a good impression, what else won’t they be bothered with?
Character driven /
a bit slow but nice /
Like I said it was written in Frans POV so we get to see her grow as a person.
I enjoyed it immensely, but sometimes I had the feeling there were too many details.
But all in all I really had fun reading the book! Definitely recommend!
August 18, 2020
I can date my love for the friends-to-lovers trope back to the first time I watched When Harry Met Sally. Since that fateful night, I've been on the eternal prowl for other books and movies in which, over the course of the story, friends—best friends, preferably—fall in love with each other. The more obstacles they face and the more time they take to come to the realization that they're in love and/or to get together, the better. So, naturally, after seeing several reviewers compare Swipe Right to When Harry Met Sally, I just knew that I had to read it for myself.
Swipe Right wasn't bad, but it was no Nora Ephron masterpiece either. While I enjoyed Swipe Right well enough, it was missing the It Factor that made When Harry Met Sally such a huge hit. I don't think I can pin down whatever ineffable quality sets When Harry Met Sally apart from other rom-coms like it, but I do believe that Swipe Right failed to live up to the comparison in large part due to how its main characters and love interests, Ollie and Fran, were received. Whether they appeared together on-screen or apart, both Harry and Sally were always charming and funny and likable; they came across as people whom the viewers would want to crack open a cold one with. Ollie and Fran, on the other hand, were just... not so charming and funny. Frankly, I found them both annoying more often than I didn't, and it never bodes well for a book when I'm cursing the main characters on a continuous loop inside my head for most of it. But, to Swipe Right's credit, Ollie and Fran never irritated me enough to make me consider not finishing the book, and the sheer number of obstacles keeping Ollie and Fran apart guaranteed that I stayed invested in their relationship and continued flipping (electronic) pages.
I should also note here that while I didn't find Ollie and Fran, as characters, particularly charming or funny, Swipe Right did still have its fair share of charming and funny moments, as any rom-com worth its salt should.
Neither wholly original nor particularly surprising, Swipe Right is a frothy read from start to finish. There are some parallels to When Harry Met Sally, but the book is, at best, a poor man's B-movie remake. Although it's not bad, it's not really anything to write home about either, especially not when judged comparatively. That being the case, I think it's probably best to forgo the comparison altogether so that the book can stand on its own and be judged without having a When Harry Met Sally-sized cross to bear.
Whatever else it may or may not be, Swipe Right is a light and cute read that has its moments. If you want some pure rom-com escapism with a When Harry Met Sally twist, then look no further than Swipe Right. Otherwise, perhaps you'd be better served having what somebody else is having instead.
Swipe Right wasn't bad, but it was no Nora Ephron masterpiece either. While I enjoyed Swipe Right well enough, it was missing the It Factor that made When Harry Met Sally such a huge hit. I don't think I can pin down whatever ineffable quality sets When Harry Met Sally apart from other rom-coms like it, but I do believe that Swipe Right failed to live up to the comparison in large part due to how its main characters and love interests, Ollie and Fran, were received. Whether they appeared together on-screen or apart, both Harry and Sally were always charming and funny and likable; they came across as people whom the viewers would want to crack open a cold one with. Ollie and Fran, on the other hand, were just... not so charming and funny. Frankly, I found them both annoying more often than I didn't, and it never bodes well for a book when I'm cursing the main characters on a continuous loop inside my head for most of it. But, to Swipe Right's credit, Ollie and Fran never irritated me enough to make me consider not finishing the book, and the sheer number of obstacles keeping Ollie and Fran apart guaranteed that I stayed invested in their relationship and continued flipping (electronic) pages.
I should also note here that while I didn't find Ollie and Fran, as characters, particularly charming or funny, Swipe Right did still have its fair share of charming and funny moments, as any rom-com worth its salt should.
Neither wholly original nor particularly surprising, Swipe Right is a frothy read from start to finish. There are some parallels to When Harry Met Sally, but the book is, at best, a poor man's B-movie remake. Although it's not bad, it's not really anything to write home about either, especially not when judged comparatively. That being the case, I think it's probably best to forgo the comparison altogether so that the book can stand on its own and be judged without having a When Harry Met Sally-sized cross to bear.
Whatever else it may or may not be, Swipe Right is a light and cute read that has its moments. If you want some pure rom-com escapism with a When Harry Met Sally twist, then look no further than Swipe Right. Otherwise, perhaps you'd be better served having what somebody else is having instead.
April 18, 2020
Thank you NetGalley and Hera Books for this arc.
A fun updated version of When Harry Met Sally! Fran meets Ollie when they are both applying for the same job at a viral media entertainment company. Fran's hackles are immediately raised, but she's offered the job! Happy Day (hackles down). Her first afternoon on the new job, she finds out that Ollie has also been hired as her collaborator (hackles back up). While Fran and Ollie are unaware, it's evident to all around them that they belong together. And so begins the year plus story of their lives and misadventures while they get clued in as well.
The characters were likeable and engaging (except for the minor ones who weren't supposed to be). The writing and pace of the story flowed along with some hysterically funny moments and some truly heartfelt ones. The drama and angst were balanced with Fran's introspection (a surprise for me). Overall, a very nice read.
A fun updated version of When Harry Met Sally! Fran meets Ollie when they are both applying for the same job at a viral media entertainment company. Fran's hackles are immediately raised, but she's offered the job! Happy Day (hackles down). Her first afternoon on the new job, she finds out that Ollie has also been hired as her collaborator (hackles back up). While Fran and Ollie are unaware, it's evident to all around them that they belong together. And so begins the year plus story of their lives and misadventures while they get clued in as well.
The characters were likeable and engaging (except for the minor ones who weren't supposed to be). The writing and pace of the story flowed along with some hysterically funny moments and some truly heartfelt ones. The drama and angst were balanced with Fran's introspection (a surprise for me). Overall, a very nice read.
April 28, 2020
Swipe Right is a perfect book for all the chick-lit readers.
We have a workspace romance with two characters that go from enemies to friends and at the end to lovers. When they meet Fran and Ollie are competing for the same job position. They both get it. The obvious chemistry has to take a back seat because both of them have a significant other. Halfway through this book, we get to the "dating" aspect of the story as then our heroine breaks up with her boyfriend and starts dating on Tinder and writing for a blog about those dates. There are many issues that I had with this book. Most of it all is that the title is a bit misleading as dating is not really a premise or plot of this book. Then there is the fact that Oliver is pursuing Fran at the beginning very strongly but as the story progresses, we learn not only that he has a girlfriend but he is very indecisive. So I am a bit confused. Which way is it? As the story develops my feeling towards characters changed. But at the end of it all, I have to say this is a very realistic novel. So all issues previously mention don't have to be that AT ALL. It makes characters more genuine and palpable.
If you enjoy chick-lit, especially British chick-lit then I would recommend this book to you.
The dating part and dialogue was also very believable.
Thank NetGalley and the publisher for the copy of the book in exchange for an honest review!
We have a workspace romance with two characters that go from enemies to friends and at the end to lovers. When they meet Fran and Ollie are competing for the same job position. They both get it. The obvious chemistry has to take a back seat because both of them have a significant other. Halfway through this book, we get to the "dating" aspect of the story as then our heroine breaks up with her boyfriend and starts dating on Tinder and writing for a blog about those dates. There are many issues that I had with this book. Most of it all is that the title is a bit misleading as dating is not really a premise or plot of this book. Then there is the fact that Oliver is pursuing Fran at the beginning very strongly but as the story progresses, we learn not only that he has a girlfriend but he is very indecisive. So I am a bit confused. Which way is it? As the story develops my feeling towards characters changed. But at the end of it all, I have to say this is a very realistic novel. So all issues previously mention don't have to be that AT ALL. It makes characters more genuine and palpable.
If you enjoy chick-lit, especially British chick-lit then I would recommend this book to you.
The dating part and dialogue was also very believable.
Thank NetGalley and the publisher for the copy of the book in exchange for an honest review!
July 19, 2020
I received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
4,5 stars
I absolutely adored this book. I loved that this wasn´t "instant-love", this story had more nuance. This is a funny, charming, feel-good read. I disliked some moments that I´m not gonna spoil right now but they weren´t really relevant in the main scheme of things. Most of the story was as close to perfect as I imagined
The main drawback for me was the ending, I wanted a bit more, a little more of happy before the ending. I will definitely add Stephie Chapman to my list of authors I adore.
4,5 stars
I absolutely adored this book. I loved that this wasn´t "instant-love", this story had more nuance. This is a funny, charming, feel-good read. I disliked some moments that I´m not gonna spoil right now but they weren´t really relevant in the main scheme of things. Most of the story was as close to perfect as I imagined
The main drawback for me was the ending, I wanted a bit more, a little more of happy before the ending. I will definitely add Stephie Chapman to my list of authors I adore.
May 15, 2020
Thank you NetGalley and BOTBS for a complimentary copy. I voluntarily reviewed this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
Swipe Right
By: Stephie Chapman
REVIEW ☆☆☆
I'm so glad my dating days were during the prehistoric era when people actually met in person and had a real conversation. Maybe I'm just old (fortyish), but the whole swipe this way or that way concept is ludicrous and superficial to me. I'm in the middle about this book, Swipe Right. On one hand, it's a cute entertaining story that is basically a romcom. There are humorous moments and serious moments. Fran and Ollie are interesting characters. Fran is sympathetic but frustrating because she needs to stand up for herself and be clear about her intentions in life. Ollie is not completely likeable, and he didn't grow on me like characters do sometimes. He was too modern, too aloof and kind of a jerk at times. On the other hand, the story is slow going and the plot seemed all over the place with the character's relationship constantly changing. It was too much for me personally. I like a simpler story, but other readers like complicated and will love this aspect. It just boils down to preference. I would recommend trying Swipe Right if you enjoy modern romcoms. The story is not bad, but it's not my favorite.
Swipe Right
By: Stephie Chapman
REVIEW ☆☆☆
I'm so glad my dating days were during the prehistoric era when people actually met in person and had a real conversation. Maybe I'm just old (fortyish), but the whole swipe this way or that way concept is ludicrous and superficial to me. I'm in the middle about this book, Swipe Right. On one hand, it's a cute entertaining story that is basically a romcom. There are humorous moments and serious moments. Fran and Ollie are interesting characters. Fran is sympathetic but frustrating because she needs to stand up for herself and be clear about her intentions in life. Ollie is not completely likeable, and he didn't grow on me like characters do sometimes. He was too modern, too aloof and kind of a jerk at times. On the other hand, the story is slow going and the plot seemed all over the place with the character's relationship constantly changing. It was too much for me personally. I like a simpler story, but other readers like complicated and will love this aspect. It just boils down to preference. I would recommend trying Swipe Right if you enjoy modern romcoms. The story is not bad, but it's not my favorite.
April 29, 2020
Thank you to NetGalley, Hera books and Stephie Chapman for giving me that warm fuzzy feeling where you don’t dare hope for that ending...but really really want that ending.
Our two main characters are Ollie and Fran. Both go for an interview. It’s clear, from the off, that these two have a spark. But will it ever be more? When they both end up working in the company we do wonder. Everyone around them seems to think they make a great couple - but each has a partner.
For seemingly ages Fran and Ollie walk the line of friends who quite fancy each other. It’s all very When Harry Met Sally without the annoying leads, a lot more alcohol and no fake-orgasm scene.
There’s a warmth between the two characters that seems very genuine. They open up to each other in a way that you can’t help but envy...but nothing happens.
Hang fire. Don’t get disheartened. Sometimes you just need to wait for the right time to put everything in place. Of course, it might not happen - but that really would have been a miserable read.
Our two main characters are Ollie and Fran. Both go for an interview. It’s clear, from the off, that these two have a spark. But will it ever be more? When they both end up working in the company we do wonder. Everyone around them seems to think they make a great couple - but each has a partner.
For seemingly ages Fran and Ollie walk the line of friends who quite fancy each other. It’s all very When Harry Met Sally without the annoying leads, a lot more alcohol and no fake-orgasm scene.
There’s a warmth between the two characters that seems very genuine. They open up to each other in a way that you can’t help but envy...but nothing happens.
Hang fire. Don’t get disheartened. Sometimes you just need to wait for the right time to put everything in place. Of course, it might not happen - but that really would have been a miserable read.
May 9, 2020
I received this book as an E-ARC from NetGalley!
.
YOU GUYS I LOVED BOOK SO MUCH! If you like good slow burn romances you’ll love this one!
So what is this book about? It’s about the relationship between Fran and Ollie. From co-interviewees and brief enemies to coworkers and besties! The attraction and chemistry between them is undeniable. But unfortunately both Ollie and Fran are spoken for. After a turn of events Fran is single and ready to mingle, and as a content creator she thinks up a new blog! Dating in the big city one swipe at a time. And so Fran’s adventures in dating commence! But what happens when her attraction to Ollie attraction doesn’t go away?
I really really enjoyed it! It was such a fun read and I’m definitely gonna try more of Stephie Chapman’s books, I’ve had so much fun reading this one! It was funny and entertaining at times, and infuriating and sad at others. The dates Fran went to were particularly amusing and at times maddening to my angry inner feminist. It was fun to see Fran’s take on them, her responses, and her actions towards men who have wronged her. I also appreciated how the characters were good but flawed people that have made mistakes.
I always love when the romance in books isn’t perfect. This whole book talked about missed opportunities for people and - right person wrong time. It was just so wonderful to read about a relationship that felt flawed but also meant to be? As if they were meant to happen but just at a different time. They needed to rewind and find their pace together.
A comparison I felt throughout reading this book was towards “Where Rainbows End” by Cecelia Ahern! What drew me to that comparison you may ask? Well, for starters- they’re both so bloody damn British! I’m both kidding and not. There was a lot of British slang in this one and thankfully I did know what the characters meant by them all.
But the second most prominent part came to form by the frustration and slow burn of the romance! In both books, the authors have decided to torment us readers by letting us wait for sooooo long before we get the climatic union of the couple. It’s both frustrating and incredible. Frustrating because I just want them to get together, and incredible because it makes me so much more invested in the relationship!
You NEED patience for this book. The romance is so slow burning you’ll find yourself screaming at your book, yelling at Fran and Ollie to “get their shit together already”. I know I have. By the last 15% of the book I was about ready to take a sledgehammer and find my way onside the book. But alas, I did not venture into the land of zeros and ones inside of my phone and decided to give them the last few pages to reconcile and find their way to one another.
So, while I personally love waiting awhile for the love interests to get together, I understand that many other people don’t feel the same- especially to THAT extent.
So enough raving, let’s get to the problems with the books shall we? Or more correctly in this case- the one problem I had with this one!
So what was my problem? Well, for me the book seemed to be paced oddly! It felt as if it took quite a long time for the plot to go underway? The book is titled “Swipe Right” but Fran only got swiping (on Tinder) at around the 50% mark... it was still entertaining all throughout and I definitely thought it was a good exposition to set the pace and circumstances of the whole novel, but it may have been a tad too slow.
Overall it was a great read for a patient reader! The romance was great and I enjoyed myself immensely!
4 stars.
.
YOU GUYS I LOVED BOOK SO MUCH! If you like good slow burn romances you’ll love this one!
So what is this book about? It’s about the relationship between Fran and Ollie. From co-interviewees and brief enemies to coworkers and besties! The attraction and chemistry between them is undeniable. But unfortunately both Ollie and Fran are spoken for. After a turn of events Fran is single and ready to mingle, and as a content creator she thinks up a new blog! Dating in the big city one swipe at a time. And so Fran’s adventures in dating commence! But what happens when her attraction to Ollie attraction doesn’t go away?
I really really enjoyed it! It was such a fun read and I’m definitely gonna try more of Stephie Chapman’s books, I’ve had so much fun reading this one! It was funny and entertaining at times, and infuriating and sad at others. The dates Fran went to were particularly amusing and at times maddening to my angry inner feminist. It was fun to see Fran’s take on them, her responses, and her actions towards men who have wronged her. I also appreciated how the characters were good but flawed people that have made mistakes.
I always love when the romance in books isn’t perfect. This whole book talked about missed opportunities for people and - right person wrong time. It was just so wonderful to read about a relationship that felt flawed but also meant to be? As if they were meant to happen but just at a different time. They needed to rewind and find their pace together.
A comparison I felt throughout reading this book was towards “Where Rainbows End” by Cecelia Ahern! What drew me to that comparison you may ask? Well, for starters- they’re both so bloody damn British! I’m both kidding and not. There was a lot of British slang in this one and thankfully I did know what the characters meant by them all.
But the second most prominent part came to form by the frustration and slow burn of the romance! In both books, the authors have decided to torment us readers by letting us wait for sooooo long before we get the climatic union of the couple. It’s both frustrating and incredible. Frustrating because I just want them to get together, and incredible because it makes me so much more invested in the relationship!
You NEED patience for this book. The romance is so slow burning you’ll find yourself screaming at your book, yelling at Fran and Ollie to “get their shit together already”. I know I have. By the last 15% of the book I was about ready to take a sledgehammer and find my way onside the book. But alas, I did not venture into the land of zeros and ones inside of my phone and decided to give them the last few pages to reconcile and find their way to one another.
So, while I personally love waiting awhile for the love interests to get together, I understand that many other people don’t feel the same- especially to THAT extent.
So enough raving, let’s get to the problems with the books shall we? Or more correctly in this case- the one problem I had with this one!
So what was my problem? Well, for me the book seemed to be paced oddly! It felt as if it took quite a long time for the plot to go underway? The book is titled “Swipe Right” but Fran only got swiping (on Tinder) at around the 50% mark... it was still entertaining all throughout and I definitely thought it was a good exposition to set the pace and circumstances of the whole novel, but it may have been a tad too slow.
Overall it was a great read for a patient reader! The romance was great and I enjoyed myself immensely!
4 stars.
May 12, 2020
This is a contemporary enemies to friends to more romance largely involving the folk who work at Viral Hive, a trendy media content agency. With online dating, a round the world tour and a great cast of secondary characters this is billed as being the modern day alternative version of When Harry Met Sally. Fran and Ollie initially meet when they go to be interviewed for the same job and are paired up for a presentation. At that time both have significant other halves - hers is Lucas and his is Lou. However, as these two work together and get to know each other, everyone else can see they should be together - except them...... so let the fun begin!
I really like the team that Fran works with at the Hive, there are some great laughs amongst them and it sounds like a fantastic, supportive place to work. I particularly liked both Fran's friends Suze and Carlina, they both seem to 'get' Fran and do their best to support her through all her trials and tribulations. I certainly didn't feel that way about her erstwhile best friend since childhood, Lydia, I felt her attitude and support left much to be desired . . . . and so did that of Lucas! Some of the antics are funny but others are concerning. I'd certainly be very anxious if I had a daughter going out with strangers she's met on Tinder and bringing them back to her flat when they'd only just met, just too trusting, IMHO. OK, so I'm somewhat of a prude, but I'd also be seriously worried about her safety both physically and healthwise. If you don't mind your romance reads including (two) love triangles, infidelity, narcissism and tinder dates, you'll probably love this contemporary romance. It is a slow burn, taking over two years and lots of false starts or hold ups en route. Sticking with the journey analogy, it also felt like the final destination, so eagerly anticipated, was not quite as expected but I suggest you read it for yourself to discover just what I mean and decide for yourself it that is a good or bad thing!
Many thanks to Hera books for gifting me a copy of this via NetGalley. This is my honest review after choosing to read it.
I really like the team that Fran works with at the Hive, there are some great laughs amongst them and it sounds like a fantastic, supportive place to work. I particularly liked both Fran's friends Suze and Carlina, they both seem to 'get' Fran and do their best to support her through all her trials and tribulations. I certainly didn't feel that way about her erstwhile best friend since childhood, Lydia, I felt her attitude and support left much to be desired . . . . and so did that of Lucas! Some of the antics are funny but others are concerning. I'd certainly be very anxious if I had a daughter going out with strangers she's met on Tinder and bringing them back to her flat when they'd only just met, just too trusting, IMHO. OK, so I'm somewhat of a prude, but I'd also be seriously worried about her safety both physically and healthwise. If you don't mind your romance reads including (two) love triangles, infidelity, narcissism and tinder dates, you'll probably love this contemporary romance. It is a slow burn, taking over two years and lots of false starts or hold ups en route. Sticking with the journey analogy, it also felt like the final destination, so eagerly anticipated, was not quite as expected but I suggest you read it for yourself to discover just what I mean and decide for yourself it that is a good or bad thing!
Many thanks to Hera books for gifting me a copy of this via NetGalley. This is my honest review after choosing to read it.
April 28, 2020
I instantly connected with Fran and Ollie as soon as we meet them. Fran is definitely someone who I would be friends with in the real world. She swears, drinks, smokes and yes I know it’s not good for you but come on! This is the real world.
I was quite envious of Fran and Ollie’s work environment. Going out for lunches and drinks after work. People bringing in pastries for breakfast, it’s one big happy team. I did have my doubts about Fran doing the dating column and whilst some of my doubts were proven right, it does make for some seriously fun reading. Especially one such date of which I will say no more so as not to spoil it for others.
There is a blossoming relationship of sorts growing throughout the story. The readers can see it but it takes the characters a bit longer so you get a, will they ever get it together vibe.
Swipe Right was the perfect read in these uncertain times that brought some much welcomed relief. Fran’s story kept me wholly engaged and had me shaking my head and laughing at some of her antics. There was also the odd times where I wanted to give her a great big hug. A fun and light hearted read.
My thanks to NetGalley and Hera Books for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
I was quite envious of Fran and Ollie’s work environment. Going out for lunches and drinks after work. People bringing in pastries for breakfast, it’s one big happy team. I did have my doubts about Fran doing the dating column and whilst some of my doubts were proven right, it does make for some seriously fun reading. Especially one such date of which I will say no more so as not to spoil it for others.
There is a blossoming relationship of sorts growing throughout the story. The readers can see it but it takes the characters a bit longer so you get a, will they ever get it together vibe.
Swipe Right was the perfect read in these uncertain times that brought some much welcomed relief. Fran’s story kept me wholly engaged and had me shaking my head and laughing at some of her antics. There was also the odd times where I wanted to give her a great big hug. A fun and light hearted read.
My thanks to NetGalley and Hera Books for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
May 15, 2020
A great romantic comedy about young people who are looking for love in places where love has nothing to do with.
For some people, online dating is working out but for many it doesn’t and that makes them more aware of their friends and how most of them are living a very superficial life.
I laughed out loud many times and I can totally understand the sarcasm in other scenes and I will recommend this book for an easy, funny and light story that many people will enjoy.
For some people, online dating is working out but for many it doesn’t and that makes them more aware of their friends and how most of them are living a very superficial life.
I laughed out loud many times and I can totally understand the sarcasm in other scenes and I will recommend this book for an easy, funny and light story that many people will enjoy.
September 30, 2021
I wanted to like this book, I really tried to be patient and give Fran and Ollie a chance, but I failed.
I didn't feel any connection beyond a distant acquaintance between them, although Fran kept describing their relationship as best friends, to her Ollie was her work spouse, as she kept telling herself and her friends over and over again. He brought her coffee and sweets, ok, went to lunch with her, but their interactions at work were often far from friendly, and besides some hard to interpret glances there was nothing tangible between them, that could have made me see why Fran cared for Ollie so much.
I really didn't like the idea of Ollie as a potential romantic partner for Fran . The only reason he got to be with Fran was because Lou had cheated. Even after the cheating he wanted to give it another try with Lou, because she had always been his rock. Ok I get it, that's wonderful, he really loved Lou, good for them. But I didn't see his love or even motivation to finally want to be with Fran (beside their easy way together).
I never felt there was a reason for Fran and Ollie to root for their hea, I even hoped Fran would find someone else who cared for her deeply.
2,5 stars.
I didn't feel any connection beyond a distant acquaintance between them, although Fran kept describing their relationship as best friends, to her Ollie was her work spouse, as she kept telling herself and her friends over and over again. He brought her coffee and sweets, ok, went to lunch with her, but their interactions at work were often far from friendly, and besides some hard to interpret glances there was nothing tangible between them, that could have made me see why Fran cared for Ollie so much.
I really didn't like the idea of Ollie as a potential romantic partner for Fran . The only reason he got to be with Fran was because Lou had cheated. Even after the cheating he wanted to give it another try with Lou, because she had always been his rock. Ok I get it, that's wonderful, he really loved Lou, good for them. But I didn't see his love or even motivation to finally want to be with Fran (beside their easy way together).
I never felt there was a reason for Fran and Ollie to root for their hea, I even hoped Fran would find someone else who cared for her deeply.
2,5 stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 17, 2020
This is my honest opinion about Swipe Right written by Stephie Chapman. Thank you, NetGalley for this ARC and; in exchange to that, I am writing my honest review for this book.
It took up to 50% reading stage for me to get it geared up which means, my first 50% reading was not so much engaging and to be honest, I was struggling on it. It could have been better if the book gets it hit out at least at the 30% reading stage, rather than making me read it up to 50% stage and finally get it geared up. I have almost given up to my reading. Maybe I felt that the book was a bit slow at the 1st half-reading stage. Honestly, it tortured me a lot. Nevertheless, I have to admit that although it tortured me much with the storyline, the book hooked me up till the end.
You must be wondering why the book hooked me up till the end even though I said that I was tortured by the storyline, aye? One thing for sure, the characters made the story became a better version. I would love to give this book 3 stars that it deserved.
It took up to 50% reading stage for me to get it geared up which means, my first 50% reading was not so much engaging and to be honest, I was struggling on it. It could have been better if the book gets it hit out at least at the 30% reading stage, rather than making me read it up to 50% stage and finally get it geared up. I have almost given up to my reading. Maybe I felt that the book was a bit slow at the 1st half-reading stage. Honestly, it tortured me a lot. Nevertheless, I have to admit that although it tortured me much with the storyline, the book hooked me up till the end.
You must be wondering why the book hooked me up till the end even though I said that I was tortured by the storyline, aye? One thing for sure, the characters made the story became a better version. I would love to give this book 3 stars that it deserved.
April 25, 2020
I don’t know about y’all but I just want to read all the rom-coms lately. My heart just needs all the feel good stories.
So this is supposed to be like a modern “When Harry Met Sally”. According to the author she got the idea while watching the movie.
Don’t kill me you guys but I have never watched that movie 🙈 I feel like I should have before I read this!
I really enjoyed this book. It was a fun and easy read. I found myself literally laughing out loud and I love when a book can make people wonder if I’ve gone bonkers. And yes I did pick up some British slang from this book.
This is a modern love story, the author does a fun job of showing us just how awful online dating can be. It’s also very real. And not just insta love.
This book comes out next month! May 13th and you should check it out if you are a fan of rom-coms like me.
Thank you Netgalley and Hera books for the early copy!
So this is supposed to be like a modern “When Harry Met Sally”. According to the author she got the idea while watching the movie.
Don’t kill me you guys but I have never watched that movie 🙈 I feel like I should have before I read this!
I really enjoyed this book. It was a fun and easy read. I found myself literally laughing out loud and I love when a book can make people wonder if I’ve gone bonkers. And yes I did pick up some British slang from this book.
This is a modern love story, the author does a fun job of showing us just how awful online dating can be. It’s also very real. And not just insta love.
This book comes out next month! May 13th and you should check it out if you are a fan of rom-coms like me.
Thank you Netgalley and Hera books for the early copy!
May 16, 2020
I have got the worse case of leaky eyes after finishing this, I am not sure that they are going to stop neither! When I saw Stephie had another book coming out I knew I had to read it, I adored Call Me, Maybe and so I knew Swipe Right would be a must-read for me.
The instant I met Ollie and Fran, I loved them, I loved the chemistry, banter and most of their friendship, the work-marriage status. I mean who does not love the closeness with another person that they share. I think most people have a work-marriage, not necessarily finishing the way this does but as I say it is nice when that person gets you.
Ollie and Fran get each other, from the minute they meet at the job interview, you feel the crackle of electricity between them. Both with respective partners become a dream team. It is always an inconvenience when you are dying for the two main characters to be together, especially when they have partners. You almost want to hate the partners because they are interfering in your reading but you know they are only human too!
One of my favourite scenes I have to say is Fran’s smackdown at Lucas’s Christmas Party – bam – talk about a mic drop. You have to read it to find out what I mean but if I had been drinking something I think it might have been snorted out my nose!!!!
It is not until halfway through the book that we get to its namesake, although I was wondering when it was going to happen. I was enjoying the lead up to it. I just could not put this book down and I did not want to either. The characters are realistic and flawed, so flawed but that is what makes great!
Is it also wrong to enjoy reading about someones disastrous dating life? I mean what is about revelling in the awful dates someone has to endure and there were some clangers, from one extreme to another, crying and clingy to damn right abusive!
I have read a couple of books like this before, but this is by far my favourite of them. I was smiling pretty much the whole way through, I know this because my face hurts! Odd as it sounds, I want to just climb inside the pages and stay in a happy place with everyone, especially Carlina. What a fab gal she is. I know you must think I am right old nut job, I mean I am, but this book is a safe haven. It is a book to make you smile and to reinforce that there is love in the world.
The instant I met Ollie and Fran, I loved them, I loved the chemistry, banter and most of their friendship, the work-marriage status. I mean who does not love the closeness with another person that they share. I think most people have a work-marriage, not necessarily finishing the way this does but as I say it is nice when that person gets you.
Ollie and Fran get each other, from the minute they meet at the job interview, you feel the crackle of electricity between them. Both with respective partners become a dream team. It is always an inconvenience when you are dying for the two main characters to be together, especially when they have partners. You almost want to hate the partners because they are interfering in your reading but you know they are only human too!
One of my favourite scenes I have to say is Fran’s smackdown at Lucas’s Christmas Party – bam – talk about a mic drop. You have to read it to find out what I mean but if I had been drinking something I think it might have been snorted out my nose!!!!
It is not until halfway through the book that we get to its namesake, although I was wondering when it was going to happen. I was enjoying the lead up to it. I just could not put this book down and I did not want to either. The characters are realistic and flawed, so flawed but that is what makes great!
Is it also wrong to enjoy reading about someones disastrous dating life? I mean what is about revelling in the awful dates someone has to endure and there were some clangers, from one extreme to another, crying and clingy to damn right abusive!
I have read a couple of books like this before, but this is by far my favourite of them. I was smiling pretty much the whole way through, I know this because my face hurts! Odd as it sounds, I want to just climb inside the pages and stay in a happy place with everyone, especially Carlina. What a fab gal she is. I know you must think I am right old nut job, I mean I am, but this book is a safe haven. It is a book to make you smile and to reinforce that there is love in the world.
August 15, 2025
Swipe Right by new to me author Stephie Chapman was a fantastic story that leans heavily on two of my favorite story tropes, online dating and friendship to love. Fran and Ollie first meet when they are interviewing for the same job at a media content company. There’s chemistry, but they are in competition so nobody is more surprised than Fran when she is offered the job and learns that Ollie got the job too. This was my first clue that Fran and Ollie are two halves of one whole, their work mates refer to them as work spouses. Ollie and Fran are also in relationships with other people.
When Fran’s relationship implodes, she decides to start an online dating blog for work detailing all the good, bad and ugly of these dates, omitting names for privacy. This book quickly pulled me into the lives of Fran and Ollie. I loved seeing their friendship develop into more than just workplace camaraderie. Ollie is supportive of Fran’s online dating project but shows valid concern when some of the dates are less than pleasant. Fran tries to be supportive of Ollie’s relationship with the awful Lou but is struggling with her growing feelings for him.
When Ollie decides to leave his job at Viral Hive to go on a world tour with Lou, I think I was as heartbroken as Fran. Not only is she losing her work spouse but also the constructive interaction and collaboration they share on projects. In addition to Ollie and Fran, I also enjoyed meeting many of the supporting characters who bring a lot of charm and fun to the story. We spend so much of our lives at our jobs, it’s wonderful when you can work at a company that values your talent and input as well as working with people that you hit it off with and work effectively with as a team in support of one another.
The author does an amazing job of creating a story that flows smoothly and keeps the reader fully engaged with the characters and the events unfolding. I paired the reading of this book with the audiobook narrated by Emma Carter. Her performance enhanced my enjoyment of this book with the nuances into each character. I am looking forward to reading more from this author.
My Final Verdict: Readers have so many choices when picking a book that might appeal to them. For me online dating and friendship to love are themes I am usually drawn to and this book lived up to my expectations. I highly recommend this book to readers who enjoy these themes too as well as fans of chick-lit, contemporary romance and stories that give them warm fuzzies and make them smile.
Thank you to the publisher, Hera Books, who provided an advance reader copy of this book via NetGalley.
When Fran’s relationship implodes, she decides to start an online dating blog for work detailing all the good, bad and ugly of these dates, omitting names for privacy. This book quickly pulled me into the lives of Fran and Ollie. I loved seeing their friendship develop into more than just workplace camaraderie. Ollie is supportive of Fran’s online dating project but shows valid concern when some of the dates are less than pleasant. Fran tries to be supportive of Ollie’s relationship with the awful Lou but is struggling with her growing feelings for him.
When Ollie decides to leave his job at Viral Hive to go on a world tour with Lou, I think I was as heartbroken as Fran. Not only is she losing her work spouse but also the constructive interaction and collaboration they share on projects. In addition to Ollie and Fran, I also enjoyed meeting many of the supporting characters who bring a lot of charm and fun to the story. We spend so much of our lives at our jobs, it’s wonderful when you can work at a company that values your talent and input as well as working with people that you hit it off with and work effectively with as a team in support of one another.
The author does an amazing job of creating a story that flows smoothly and keeps the reader fully engaged with the characters and the events unfolding. I paired the reading of this book with the audiobook narrated by Emma Carter. Her performance enhanced my enjoyment of this book with the nuances into each character. I am looking forward to reading more from this author.
My Final Verdict: Readers have so many choices when picking a book that might appeal to them. For me online dating and friendship to love are themes I am usually drawn to and this book lived up to my expectations. I highly recommend this book to readers who enjoy these themes too as well as fans of chick-lit, contemporary romance and stories that give them warm fuzzies and make them smile.
Thank you to the publisher, Hera Books, who provided an advance reader copy of this book via NetGalley.
April 29, 2020
Is this a book I needed to read right now... yes, yes it was!
Stephie Chapman has written a funny, charming and relatable tale of life in our current times (ok in our pre-COVID-19 times but that can be forgiven). There is a lot going well for our main character Fran and you route for her right from the get-go! She's driven, smart, witty and seems to be a genuinely good person. Enter Ollie, a character you want to really like but there is just something about him that's holding you back from going all-in on this too cool for school charmer!
This may be the slowest burn pseudo romance to rule them all. The tension is sort of there and you KNOW where everything is going but there are chapters where Ollie doesn't really factor in. He's dating Lou, awful Lou, and Fran after a spectacular scene at a Christmas party, is back on the dating scene and writing about it. While they view each other as work spouses and good friends I had a hard time buying it simply because of the space between interactions. One day they are cold and the next not and by the next I mean 4 months later, but we aren't given much of a view. We are just told to accept it. I kind of wish we saw more of the progression from adversaries to friends.
I say pseudo romance as most of this book revolves around Fran finding her way back to herself. At times you think it's going to get heavy into the romantic elements but it doesn't really. Even what we build up to is a bit anticlimactic!
Honestly, in the end, I'm not sure I was totally sold. On one hand, I was clapping but on the other, I didn't think there was enough and I was still kind of not in love with all the things Ollie did or didn't do in some cases!
I can overlook my concerns shall we call them, because I genuinely enjoyed this book! It made me laugh and question things and cheer. It made me happy and gave me an escape when I'm stuck at home! And ultimately that's what you want a book to do!
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Stephie Chapman has written a funny, charming and relatable tale of life in our current times (ok in our pre-COVID-19 times but that can be forgiven). There is a lot going well for our main character Fran and you route for her right from the get-go! She's driven, smart, witty and seems to be a genuinely good person. Enter Ollie, a character you want to really like but there is just something about him that's holding you back from going all-in on this too cool for school charmer!
This may be the slowest burn pseudo romance to rule them all. The tension is sort of there and you KNOW where everything is going but there are chapters where Ollie doesn't really factor in. He's dating Lou, awful Lou, and Fran after a spectacular scene at a Christmas party, is back on the dating scene and writing about it. While they view each other as work spouses and good friends I had a hard time buying it simply because of the space between interactions. One day they are cold and the next not and by the next I mean 4 months later, but we aren't given much of a view. We are just told to accept it. I kind of wish we saw more of the progression from adversaries to friends.
I say pseudo romance as most of this book revolves around Fran finding her way back to herself. At times you think it's going to get heavy into the romantic elements but it doesn't really. Even what we build up to is a bit anticlimactic!
Honestly, in the end, I'm not sure I was totally sold. On one hand, I was clapping but on the other, I didn't think there was enough and I was still kind of not in love with all the things Ollie did or didn't do in some cases!
I can overlook my concerns shall we call them, because I genuinely enjoyed this book! It made me laugh and question things and cheer. It made me happy and gave me an escape when I'm stuck at home! And ultimately that's what you want a book to do!
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy in exchange for an honest review.
April 18, 2020
Going into this I thought this would be the typical boy meets girl trope. However, this adds a great modern day twist.
It really shows the in and outs of online dating and does so in a fun way - I loved the blog extracts after all the dates!
Fran and Ollie were great leads and you find yourself rooting for them from the first meeting.
This is the perfect light hearted and funny read. If you enjoyed the Flatshare by Beth O'Leary I think you'll love this!
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with an early copy.
It really shows the in and outs of online dating and does so in a fun way - I loved the blog extracts after all the dates!
Fran and Ollie were great leads and you find yourself rooting for them from the first meeting.
This is the perfect light hearted and funny read. If you enjoyed the Flatshare by Beth O'Leary I think you'll love this!
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with an early copy.
May 1, 2020
Thank you to Netgalley for my free copy. I liked the book. It flowed very nicely.
I thought blogging online dating was an interesting concept. The dates themselves were funny and awful. I couldn’t help but feel bad for Fran. Some of the British slang was a bit hard to understand so I felt like I missed parts of the book. And even though I loved Ollie, I thought he was a bit hypocritical at times. I needed more for the ending. Overall it was a good book.
I thought blogging online dating was an interesting concept. The dates themselves were funny and awful. I couldn’t help but feel bad for Fran. Some of the British slang was a bit hard to understand so I felt like I missed parts of the book. And even though I loved Ollie, I thought he was a bit hypocritical at times. I needed more for the ending. Overall it was a good book.
May 18, 2020
Fran met Ollie when they went to the same job interview. They compete for the same position and at the end they both got it. They turned from enemy to friend then romance. Both of them got boyfriend/girlfriend but they can't denied their attraction towards each other.
I hate this! I don't understand why she accept him back after what he did to her! This one pissed me off lol
Omg! I loved the way Fran dump her boyfriend, Lucas at his office party 🤣 asddfghjkl he deserved that!
I liked Suze and Carlina. I loved the way they support Fran and cheer her throughout her journey. Goshh I hate her childhood best friend Lydia. She is not a good friend lol
Btw there is one part that make me cry goshh it's heartbreaking. That is one of the reason why I hate Ollie lol what a jerk!
Thank you Netgalley for Swipe Right ARC!
🌟🌟🌟.5
I hate this! I don't understand why she accept him back after what he did to her! This one pissed me off lol
Omg! I loved the way Fran dump her boyfriend, Lucas at his office party 🤣 asddfghjkl he deserved that!
I liked Suze and Carlina. I loved the way they support Fran and cheer her throughout her journey. Goshh I hate her childhood best friend Lydia. She is not a good friend lol
Btw there is one part that make me cry goshh it's heartbreaking. That is one of the reason why I hate Ollie lol what a jerk!
Thank you Netgalley for Swipe Right ARC!
🌟🌟🌟.5
May 5, 2020
Finished reading: May 4th 2020
"I try and compartmentalise the way Ollie makes me feel but whichever way I look at it I end up confused because the lines are so blurred it makes it impossible to fit into tidy little boxes."
*** A copy of this book was kindly provided to me by Netgalley and Hera Books in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! ***
P.S. Find more of my reviews here.
April 23, 2020
trigger warnings: misogyny, harassment, online sexual harassment, single parents, vomit mention, alcohol, cigarettes, sex, gaslighting, cheating partners
I don’t know if this is a 3 or 4 stars honestly. Ollie really started out as a tool and I’m not a big fan of guys who are jerks and annoying because they can’t express they like someone due to already having a partner or being emotionally stunted.
On the flip, Fran was such an incredible character. She has a wonderful arc of going from self doubting and repeatedly questioning herself to an admirably confident and self assured content creator. I loved the slow arc of change she goes through from break up to Tinder dates to her time spent with Ollie and then finally shrugging of that dire need for romantic validation.
I also thoroughly loved the slow timeline. This takes place over the span of nearly two years (maybe more) so the relationship was incredibly well paced. The timeline truly felt like a clean and sequential development from enemies to friends to lovers. Fran and Ollie’s missed connection moments of just not being ready for the other at the right time really gutted me at times but I didn’t feel impatient about it because there were so many wonderfully heartwarming moments that showed the longevity of their bond.
Ollie really was on the fence for me as a romantic lead. I really only liked him because Fran liked him (which speaks to her character development honestly). He was an annoying little child in the beginning and was unnecessarily territorial despite having a whole ass girl friend, shitty as she was. Like dump the hag and get with Fran or keep your opinions to yourself bro. Fran checks him on that real quick though and Ollie very clearly makes those changes based on her call outs. So there’s that. He made the effort which eventually endeared me to him. He made a dumb fucking decision at a pivotal moment though so he’s on thin fucking ice.
Suze and Carlina were the perfect BFFs to balance out Fran’s dark spots in the narrative, readily available to cheer her up and coach her through rough spots. They felt realistic and strong as supportive friends and I really love reading their parts. Lydia was titled childhood best friend but she was a bit of a tosser yo be QUITE frank. Like I get your husband is your number one but when he sides with a random MAN over your childhood best friend you really need to evaluate if supporting him is the right decision. I also didn’t like how much she meddled. Suze and Carlina on the other hand were there for Fran as she needed them and were tactful about how they imparted their best friend wisdom. Far superior imo but all the same the friendships were really realistic.
I was happy to see that there were family moments involved as well. Fran’s dad features in a couple of parts and it was good to see adults connecting with their parents instead of mentioning them offhand or simply engaging through a phone call.
I mean this as a sincere compliment: this book read like one of my favourite slow burn fanfics. After my initial hiccups with Ollie being a dipshit I really really loved how their relationship developed and the ending was so pure!!!!!
I don’t know if this is a 3 or 4 stars honestly. Ollie really started out as a tool and I’m not a big fan of guys who are jerks and annoying because they can’t express they like someone due to already having a partner or being emotionally stunted.
On the flip, Fran was such an incredible character. She has a wonderful arc of going from self doubting and repeatedly questioning herself to an admirably confident and self assured content creator. I loved the slow arc of change she goes through from break up to Tinder dates to her time spent with Ollie and then finally shrugging of that dire need for romantic validation.
I also thoroughly loved the slow timeline. This takes place over the span of nearly two years (maybe more) so the relationship was incredibly well paced. The timeline truly felt like a clean and sequential development from enemies to friends to lovers. Fran and Ollie’s missed connection moments of just not being ready for the other at the right time really gutted me at times but I didn’t feel impatient about it because there were so many wonderfully heartwarming moments that showed the longevity of their bond.
Ollie really was on the fence for me as a romantic lead. I really only liked him because Fran liked him (which speaks to her character development honestly). He was an annoying little child in the beginning and was unnecessarily territorial despite having a whole ass girl friend, shitty as she was. Like dump the hag and get with Fran or keep your opinions to yourself bro. Fran checks him on that real quick though and Ollie very clearly makes those changes based on her call outs. So there’s that. He made the effort which eventually endeared me to him. He made a dumb fucking decision at a pivotal moment though so he’s on thin fucking ice.
Suze and Carlina were the perfect BFFs to balance out Fran’s dark spots in the narrative, readily available to cheer her up and coach her through rough spots. They felt realistic and strong as supportive friends and I really love reading their parts. Lydia was titled childhood best friend but she was a bit of a tosser yo be QUITE frank. Like I get your husband is your number one but when he sides with a random MAN over your childhood best friend you really need to evaluate if supporting him is the right decision. I also didn’t like how much she meddled. Suze and Carlina on the other hand were there for Fran as she needed them and were tactful about how they imparted their best friend wisdom. Far superior imo but all the same the friendships were really realistic.
I was happy to see that there were family moments involved as well. Fran’s dad features in a couple of parts and it was good to see adults connecting with their parents instead of mentioning them offhand or simply engaging through a phone call.
I mean this as a sincere compliment: this book read like one of my favourite slow burn fanfics. After my initial hiccups with Ollie being a dipshit I really really loved how their relationship developed and the ending was so pure!!!!!
April 20, 2020
2.5 stars rounding up...
I couldn’t exactly look at ‘Swipe Right’ as an updated, contemporary (and more frenzied) version of ‘When Harry Met Sally’ for some reason, but instead, kept thinking of Fleabag going on a rampage, on the dating merry-go-round before finding seeing the person who had been hovering right before her eyes.
It’s a little hard to call this romance really; squint hard and then you’ll get the simmering attracting that swirls beneath Fran Tatlin’s and Ollie Taylor’s somewhat turbulent friendship in the long period of time that this story stretches over, but even that’s doesn’t feel like the whole point of the tale. ‘Swipe Right’ is more like a woman’s journey through Tinder dating, work and reactionary rebounding as much as a person can do before emotional (and reader) fatigue sets in.
Written wholly in Fran’s POV, this felt more like her stumbling through quirky co-workers, the highs and lows of her disastrous dating life while the man she was always looking for wasn’t really available until 'The End’. There was lots of self-introspection, a bit of expected narcissism and self-absorption with Fran in all her glory (she did get downright annoying and tiresome at times), yet there were parts that made you empathise given how much we’re made to walk in her shoes. I did find that the middle part lagged however, and ended skimming through because I’d fully expected something to come up with Ollie sooner rather than later (read: at the very end!).
From a ‘purist’ (loosely defined) romance-novel perspective, with both Fran’s and Ollie’s diverging paths throughout the book as Fran went through different dating partners/flings, I didn’t quite feel their build-up as keenly as I thought I would had they gotten their act together much earlier. But when this is read with a more conscious idea that this belongs perhaps more suitably in the ‘Chick Lit’/Women’s fiction category however, 'Swipe Right’ hits the right notes.
*ARC by the publisher via Netgalley
*ARC by the publisher via Netgalley
I couldn’t exactly look at ‘Swipe Right’ as an updated, contemporary (and more frenzied) version of ‘When Harry Met Sally’ for some reason, but instead, kept thinking of Fleabag going on a rampage, on the dating merry-go-round before finding seeing the person who had been hovering right before her eyes.
It’s a little hard to call this romance really; squint hard and then you’ll get the simmering attracting that swirls beneath Fran Tatlin’s and Ollie Taylor’s somewhat turbulent friendship in the long period of time that this story stretches over, but even that’s doesn’t feel like the whole point of the tale. ‘Swipe Right’ is more like a woman’s journey through Tinder dating, work and reactionary rebounding as much as a person can do before emotional (and reader) fatigue sets in.
Written wholly in Fran’s POV, this felt more like her stumbling through quirky co-workers, the highs and lows of her disastrous dating life while the man she was always looking for wasn’t really available until 'The End’. There was lots of self-introspection, a bit of expected narcissism and self-absorption with Fran in all her glory (she did get downright annoying and tiresome at times), yet there were parts that made you empathise given how much we’re made to walk in her shoes. I did find that the middle part lagged however, and ended skimming through because I’d fully expected something to come up with Ollie sooner rather than later (read: at the very end!).
From a ‘purist’ (loosely defined) romance-novel perspective, with both Fran’s and Ollie’s diverging paths throughout the book as Fran went through different dating partners/flings, I didn’t quite feel their build-up as keenly as I thought I would had they gotten their act together much earlier. But when this is read with a more conscious idea that this belongs perhaps more suitably in the ‘Chick Lit’/Women’s fiction category however, 'Swipe Right’ hits the right notes.
*ARC by the publisher via Netgalley
*ARC by the publisher via Netgalley
May 17, 2020
I knew when I saw that this novel was a take on Harry Met Sally but brought right up to date, I had to read it as I loved that film!
Swipe Right is a modern love story with likeable but flawed characters.
It’s very much a book of two halves. The first half we meet Fran and Ollie who are obviously meant to be together but each have something standing in their way. Fran an obnoxious boyfriend and Ollie a standoffish girlfriend. The second half you get to see Fran’s disastrous yet hilarious dating journey.
To me, Fran was Bridget Jones type of character. She swears, she drinks, she has trouble standing up for herself but you can’t help rooting for her. Then we have Ollie, he comes across as a little arrogant and overconfident but underneath you can tell he’s a bit of a sweetheart.
I loved the way that Fran and Ollie’s relationship grows throughout the story. They start off as candidates vying for the same position, to friendship, to something much more...there’s definitely no insta love in this story!
I wish there had been a few more funny moments, specifically in the first half of the book but that’s just me being picky.
Swipe Right is a sweet and engaging story and a must if you like a more modern take on classic rom coms.
Swipe Right is a modern love story with likeable but flawed characters.
It’s very much a book of two halves. The first half we meet Fran and Ollie who are obviously meant to be together but each have something standing in their way. Fran an obnoxious boyfriend and Ollie a standoffish girlfriend. The second half you get to see Fran’s disastrous yet hilarious dating journey.
To me, Fran was Bridget Jones type of character. She swears, she drinks, she has trouble standing up for herself but you can’t help rooting for her. Then we have Ollie, he comes across as a little arrogant and overconfident but underneath you can tell he’s a bit of a sweetheart.
I loved the way that Fran and Ollie’s relationship grows throughout the story. They start off as candidates vying for the same position, to friendship, to something much more...there’s definitely no insta love in this story!
I wish there had been a few more funny moments, specifically in the first half of the book but that’s just me being picky.
Swipe Right is a sweet and engaging story and a must if you like a more modern take on classic rom coms.
May 11, 2020
Fran is applying for a job at a viral media company. While she is there she meets Ollie who is also applying for the same job. They both get it and at first Fran thinks Ollie is not that great. Over time, they become the best of friends and are even dubbed as work spouses. However, they both already have partners. During a Christmas party, Ollie tells Fran that he thinks about her a lot and they share a very passionate kiss which leaves Fran wondering. Unfortunately, Fran has a terrible break up. She starts a blog where she goes on dates and writes about then anonymously. This goes on for some time and then Ollie drops the balm saying he is going on a world adventure with his girlfriend which leave Fran feeling sadder than ever.
This was a cute story. I liked the plot line. I wish there would have been more steam in the book. Overall, a cute read.
This was a cute story. I liked the plot line. I wish there would have been more steam in the book. Overall, a cute read.
May 13, 2020
This wasn’t a bad book,it just wasn’t for me.There’s nothing about it that I hated but there were few things I really didn’t like. I couldn’t connect with characters and I couldn’t see the chemistry between Fran and Ollie.
Most of the time I liked Fran’s character. She is unapologetically herself, smart and confident, but at the same time she was self-centered and selfish. I really didn’t like Ollie. He was just as selfish as Fran and his actions confused me most of the time. I liked their workplace,Fran’s roommate Suze and I enjoyed reading about all the dates Fran went to. They were really entertaining and the most interesting part of this book for me.
I didn’t like this book as much as I thought I would but I’m sure that someone else will, so don’t let my review stop you from giving it a chance and reading it.
ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Most of the time I liked Fran’s character. She is unapologetically herself, smart and confident, but at the same time she was self-centered and selfish. I really didn’t like Ollie. He was just as selfish as Fran and his actions confused me most of the time. I liked their workplace,Fran’s roommate Suze and I enjoyed reading about all the dates Fran went to. They were really entertaining and the most interesting part of this book for me.
I didn’t like this book as much as I thought I would but I’m sure that someone else will, so don’t let my review stop you from giving it a chance and reading it.
ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 17, 2020
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I thought that this was such a lovely story!!
The plot was well developed and I loved how the story progressed. The characters were brilliant and I found myself wanting to give them a great big hug at times – they were really likeable and I warmed to them from the start.
The book was one that had me giggling, it was laugh out loud in places and left me with a genuine warm feeling inside. It is the perfect read for the current times and it was a perfect way to escape the news and just enjoy some fabulous writing!
It is 5 stars from me for this one, it was a lovely story, well written with genuine and believable characters – a fabulous way to spend an evening! Very highly recommended!!
I thought that this was such a lovely story!!
The plot was well developed and I loved how the story progressed. The characters were brilliant and I found myself wanting to give them a great big hug at times – they were really likeable and I warmed to them from the start.
The book was one that had me giggling, it was laugh out loud in places and left me with a genuine warm feeling inside. It is the perfect read for the current times and it was a perfect way to escape the news and just enjoy some fabulous writing!
It is 5 stars from me for this one, it was a lovely story, well written with genuine and believable characters – a fabulous way to spend an evening! Very highly recommended!!
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