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Lockdown on London Lane
For the inhabitants of London Lane, a simple slip of paper underneath each of their doors is about to change their lives in a hundred different ways.
URGENT!!! Due to the current situation, building management has decided to impose a seven-day quarantine on all apartment buildings on London Lane.
With nowhere else to go . . .
Ethan and Charlotte wonder whether absence really does make the heart grow fonder when they end up on either side of a locked door.
A fierce debate over pineapple on pizza ignites a series of revelations about Zach and Serena’s four-year relationship.
Liv realizes rolling with the punches is sometimes much harder than it looks after her bridesmaids’ party goes off the rails, leaving the group at each other’s throats.
Isla and Danny’s new romance is put to the test as they jump ten steps ahead on the relationship timeline.
And Imogen and Nate’s one-night stand is about to get six do-overs they never really asked for—not awkward at all.
Through make ups, breakups, love-ins, and blowouts, friendships are tested as everyone scrambles to make it through the week unscathed. Amidst all the drama, one thing remains constant: life is full of surprises.
URGENT!!! Due to the current situation, building management has decided to impose a seven-day quarantine on all apartment buildings on London Lane.
With nowhere else to go . . .
Ethan and Charlotte wonder whether absence really does make the heart grow fonder when they end up on either side of a locked door.
A fierce debate over pineapple on pizza ignites a series of revelations about Zach and Serena’s four-year relationship.
Liv realizes rolling with the punches is sometimes much harder than it looks after her bridesmaids’ party goes off the rails, leaving the group at each other’s throats.
Isla and Danny’s new romance is put to the test as they jump ten steps ahead on the relationship timeline.
And Imogen and Nate’s one-night stand is about to get six do-overs they never really asked for—not awkward at all.
Through make ups, breakups, love-ins, and blowouts, friendships are tested as everyone scrambles to make it through the week unscathed. Amidst all the drama, one thing remains constant: life is full of surprises.
323 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 1, 2022
249 people are currently reading
40447 people want to read
About the author
Beth Reekles
27 books2,032 followersBeth Reekles is an author and creator best known for her series The Kissing Booth, which was adapted into a series of hit Netflix movies. She began her writing career by self-publishing The Kissing Booth on story-sharing platform Wattpad at fifteen years old, and earned a three-book deal with Penguin Random House at seventeen. Love, Locked Down is her tenth published book. After obtaining a Physics degree and working a day job in IT, she is now a full-time author and self-confessed nerd who loves to review movies on Instagram @authorbethreekles.
Her published works include:
The Kissing Booth
The Beach House
The Kissing Booth 2: Going the Distance
The Kissing Booth: Road Trip!
The Kissing Booth 3: One Last Time
Rolling Dice
Out of Tune
Cwtch Me If You Can
It Won't Be Christmas Without You
Love, Locked Down/Lockdown on London Lane
Her published works include:
The Kissing Booth
The Beach House
The Kissing Booth 2: Going the Distance
The Kissing Booth: Road Trip!
The Kissing Booth 3: One Last Time
Rolling Dice
Out of Tune
Cwtch Me If You Can
It Won't Be Christmas Without You
Love, Locked Down/Lockdown on London Lane
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,072 reviews
November 17, 2022
genuinely would not have guessed that the author was actually british. i don't have anything noteworthy to say except i much prefer the american puttering to british pottering. though i think i'd be pretty fucking annoyed either way since the author couldn't think of any other verb to describe what these characters were doing in their apartments during lockdown.
this actually wasn't that bad except that it didn't need to exist.
this actually wasn't that bad except that it didn't need to exist.
January 28, 2022
It is the beginning of the pandemic and an entire apartment building wakes up on a Sunday to discover they are on lockdown for a week. We view the seven days through the eyes of five of the apartments. There is the longest one-night stand in one apartment. In another a one-month relationship is tested. A vlogger finds himself without his dear girlfriend and contemplates proposing. In yet another apartment the ordering of pineapple on pizza will cause a 4-year relationship to go into crisis mode. The final group is a bridesmaid gathering that stresses out an introvert to the max. What I liked about this book was the overall connection of the building and other peripheral points that gave some residents knowledge of the others like family, friends, and social media. It was fascinating to view the evolution that occurred for each unit over the seven days. There is a viral video moment that is especially charming. This book is very similar to the romcoms that follow a theme and it was entertaining. How mind-boggling is it to think that this scenario is nearly two years in the rear view? My biggest disappointment was this: although there were wedding-contingent relationship subplots, not one of the couples was actually married. And no pets of children in the mix. That is probably my generational bias shining through, but I am a big fan of commitment. So a 3.5 rounded up for me on this one.
Thank you to Wattpad and Edelweiss+ for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to Wattpad and Edelweiss+ for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
January 29, 2022
This story was cute and entertaining, but I feel like I would have enjoyed it more if they had been stuck in the building for any other reason. I just am not sure it isn’t too soon for a Covid-19 rom-com. I did like the cast of characters and felt that they were diverse and interesting. One Sunday a small apartment complex wakes up to find notices of a strict 7 day quarantine. This doesn’t sound too horrible, but it resulted in some couples being separated and some being forced together for too long too soon. Liv had her best friend and the rest of the bridal party over for a wedding planning weekend which starts out well, but too many girls not enough space and wedding planning creates tension. Imogen had a one night stand with a boy whose name she forget and when she attempts to sneak out the morning after she has to turn back around and ask to stay the week. Ethan’s girlfriend had been visiting her family and isn’t allowed back in and he’ll have to adjust to life without her. The relationship issues were filled with humor and were all interesting.
September 7, 2022
3.5 Stars
This rom-com was fresh, funny and extremely relatable for its time.
Set in the early days of the pandemic, this story follows several inhabitants of a London apartment building, as they go into (their very first) one week lockdown, some more willing and prepared than others to be stuck for a week with their partners and guests alike.
Isla and Danny have been blissfully dating for one month when a weekend sleepover turns into a week of forced proximity in Apartment #15, due to the unexpected lockdown of the entire building. Isla adores Danny, but to have him around 24/7 is freaking Isla out quite a bit (see: A LOT!). She thinks it’s way too early to let down those walls; to let Danny see her not all put together, like the perfect image she’s been presenting up to this point. This was a fun and relatable scenario and I could see how this could make or break a young couple so early in their courtship. But for me, as much as for Isla, everything was made better because Danny was such a dreamboat of a boyfriend. Just sayin’.
Olivia, from Apartment #22, was living my hellish nightmare, asked (see: emotionally bullied) by her bride-to-be best-friend to host a small hen’s weekend at her home, then, getting stuck with said group, in her personal space, for an entire week! Jesus. This entire scenario had my introverted hackles raised. I loved Liv, which helped a lot, but from the get-go I couldn’t stand her bridezilla friend, to the point that it brought back a lot of unwanted memories from friendships past. Thankfully, the one saving grace of this particular story, was the fact that, reserved, ordered, mostly closeted Liv, got her flirt on with one of the weekends attendees. This added some diversity to the general mix and provided some warm and fuzzy feelings, which was much appreciated.
Apartment #17 is an awkward place to be. Couple Serena and Zach are going through some stuff, but deciding whether they want to stay a couple is the biggest of their issues. Being locked in the apartment while tensions are already high? Yeah, not great. These two go at it a lot, and not in a fun way. Their story was also very genuine and relatable, but my dislike of Serena and her intensity made sympathy a hard reach for me. By the end, I didn’t really care if they worked their issues out or not. Theirs was easily the story I cared about the least, if I'm being frank.
In Apartment #14 we following Imogen, awkwardly forced to iso with resident Nate after one poorly timed (but exceedingly hot) one-night stand. This was probably the story that was the most fun to follow. The set-up is everyone’s worst nightmare—not being able to leave after a causal hook-up—but Imogen’s “extra” personality made the whole thing amusing AF, and before long I couldn’t help wishing for these two polar opposites to get together in a more official capacity.
Undoubtedly, Ethan from Apartment #6 was the character whose story I was won-over by to the biggest degree. This guy was just lovely. Sweet, geeky and missing his live-in girlfriend Charlotte more than words could say, after she gets locked out of the building before lockdown commences. Ethan spends his entire week lonely and heartsick, realising that Charlotte is most definitely THE ONE, which spurs him to start brainstorming exactly how to propose when all this lockdown business is over.
Overall, this was a fun read with a cool and unique premise.
This rom-com was fresh, funny and extremely relatable for its time.
Set in the early days of the pandemic, this story follows several inhabitants of a London apartment building, as they go into (their very first) one week lockdown, some more willing and prepared than others to be stuck for a week with their partners and guests alike.
Isla and Danny have been blissfully dating for one month when a weekend sleepover turns into a week of forced proximity in Apartment #15, due to the unexpected lockdown of the entire building. Isla adores Danny, but to have him around 24/7 is freaking Isla out quite a bit (see: A LOT!). She thinks it’s way too early to let down those walls; to let Danny see her not all put together, like the perfect image she’s been presenting up to this point. This was a fun and relatable scenario and I could see how this could make or break a young couple so early in their courtship. But for me, as much as for Isla, everything was made better because Danny was such a dreamboat of a boyfriend. Just sayin’.
Olivia, from Apartment #22, was living my hellish nightmare, asked (see: emotionally bullied) by her bride-to-be best-friend to host a small hen’s weekend at her home, then, getting stuck with said group, in her personal space, for an entire week! Jesus. This entire scenario had my introverted hackles raised. I loved Liv, which helped a lot, but from the get-go I couldn’t stand her bridezilla friend, to the point that it brought back a lot of unwanted memories from friendships past. Thankfully, the one saving grace of this particular story, was the fact that, reserved, ordered, mostly closeted Liv, got her flirt on with one of the weekends attendees. This added some diversity to the general mix and provided some warm and fuzzy feelings, which was much appreciated.
Apartment #17 is an awkward place to be. Couple Serena and Zach are going through some stuff, but deciding whether they want to stay a couple is the biggest of their issues. Being locked in the apartment while tensions are already high? Yeah, not great. These two go at it a lot, and not in a fun way. Their story was also very genuine and relatable, but my dislike of Serena and her intensity made sympathy a hard reach for me. By the end, I didn’t really care if they worked their issues out or not. Theirs was easily the story I cared about the least, if I'm being frank.
In Apartment #14 we following Imogen, awkwardly forced to iso with resident Nate after one poorly timed (but exceedingly hot) one-night stand. This was probably the story that was the most fun to follow. The set-up is everyone’s worst nightmare—not being able to leave after a causal hook-up—but Imogen’s “extra” personality made the whole thing amusing AF, and before long I couldn’t help wishing for these two polar opposites to get together in a more official capacity.
Undoubtedly, Ethan from Apartment #6 was the character whose story I was won-over by to the biggest degree. This guy was just lovely. Sweet, geeky and missing his live-in girlfriend Charlotte more than words could say, after she gets locked out of the building before lockdown commences. Ethan spends his entire week lonely and heartsick, realising that Charlotte is most definitely THE ONE, which spurs him to start brainstorming exactly how to propose when all this lockdown business is over.
Overall, this was a fun read with a cool and unique premise.
June 4, 2022
Cute, but sort of meh?!
The story consists of many different POVs, told by apartments. Each person/couple in those apartments has a relationship dilemma they struggle with, all while being under strict Covid lockdown for seven days.
For the majority of the book, I thought there were too many stories for me to easily keep up and I kept ending up annoyed because I didn't really know who's who 🤦♀️😂 but anyway, as the story progressed, I started to get acquainted with everyone and could enjoy it. Would have probably liked it even more if I had read a physical copy, where I could have switched back and forth to understand better what character belongs to which apartment. (I listened to the audiobook and hence struggled a little to match everyone to their respectiv storyline)
The story consists of many different POVs, told by apartments. Each person/couple in those apartments has a relationship dilemma they struggle with, all while being under strict Covid lockdown for seven days.
For the majority of the book, I thought there were too many stories for me to easily keep up and I kept ending up annoyed because I didn't really know who's who 🤦♀️😂 but anyway, as the story progressed, I started to get acquainted with everyone and could enjoy it. Would have probably liked it even more if I had read a physical copy, where I could have switched back and forth to understand better what character belongs to which apartment. (I listened to the audiobook and hence struggled a little to match everyone to their respectiv storyline)
March 1, 2022
In this laugh-out-loud contemporary romance, a whole apartment building in London is locked down with only a few hours' notice given in the wee hours of the morning. What follows is a peek into the lives of several of the inhabitants while they are forcibly caged for a week.
In one apartment, what was meant to be a one-night-stand extends for seven more days. In another, one half of the couple is locked out of the building while her boyfriend realizes how much he hates living without her.
Another couple realizes that the only thing holding their relationship together is their ability to get away from each other once in a while.
I found the premise pretty improbable but the actual story was really cute. Overall it was an enjoyable, quick read.
Maybe it is because I am not from England, but I found the rules of this forced lockdown disturbing, draconian, and downright dangerous.
I only hope it is as unrealistic as I think it is. There was only a few hours' notice and those hours seemed to be in the wee hours of the morning. If anyone worked the night shift, they would come home to find they had no home for the next seven days. Charlotte was locked out of her home for a week! What!?!!
Then there is Imogen trying to escape a one-night-stand before Nate wakes up.
These people don't even know each other and they are forced to cohabitate for a week due to one stupid indiscretion. What if one of them is unstable or dangerous? Yes, I know they made a choice the night before, but they did not sign up for this. If you think too hard about this situation, it really ruins the story.
If you ignore everything I just mentioned and just go with it, it really is a light, funny, sweet story. The author has a great sense of humor and a delightful writing style. I love well-developed, quirky characters and the author set up the perfect environment to deep dive into the freckles, warts, and scars of these lovably imperfect 20- and 30-somethings. They aren't going anywhere or doing anything for the next seven days, so we have a lot of time to get to know them. I am pleasantly surprised to announce that I would love to invite every one of them to margarita night. They would be a hoot.
In short, don't think too hard about the plot and you will fall in love with the characters.
Thank you, NetGalley, for this advance reader copy. This is my unbiased, honest review.
In one apartment, what was meant to be a one-night-stand extends for seven more days. In another, one half of the couple is locked out of the building while her boyfriend realizes how much he hates living without her.
Another couple realizes that the only thing holding their relationship together is their ability to get away from each other once in a while.
I found the premise pretty improbable but the actual story was really cute. Overall it was an enjoyable, quick read.
Maybe it is because I am not from England, but I found the rules of this forced lockdown disturbing, draconian, and downright dangerous.
I only hope it is as unrealistic as I think it is. There was only a few hours' notice and those hours seemed to be in the wee hours of the morning. If anyone worked the night shift, they would come home to find they had no home for the next seven days. Charlotte was locked out of her home for a week! What!?!!
Then there is Imogen trying to escape a one-night-stand before Nate wakes up.
These people don't even know each other and they are forced to cohabitate for a week due to one stupid indiscretion. What if one of them is unstable or dangerous? Yes, I know they made a choice the night before, but they did not sign up for this. If you think too hard about this situation, it really ruins the story.
If you ignore everything I just mentioned and just go with it, it really is a light, funny, sweet story. The author has a great sense of humor and a delightful writing style. I love well-developed, quirky characters and the author set up the perfect environment to deep dive into the freckles, warts, and scars of these lovably imperfect 20- and 30-somethings. They aren't going anywhere or doing anything for the next seven days, so we have a lot of time to get to know them. I am pleasantly surprised to announce that I would love to invite every one of them to margarita night. They would be a hoot.
In short, don't think too hard about the plot and you will fall in love with the characters.
Thank you, NetGalley, for this advance reader copy. This is my unbiased, honest review.
October 14, 2021
It is a perfect lockdown read that includes all the fear, anxiety, love & many different sentiments that one has passed through & is so relatable. It's similar to overhearing the gossips of what's occurring in our neighbors' homes. Every account is unusual & has a diverse set of difficulties with its resolution. I am amazed how the writer could conceive those multiple situations & put them over orderly.
The author is incredibly gifted, ingenious & has a definite story-telling ability. I wholly savored reading all stories, but the sassy of the lot has to be the one including the bridezilla & her girlfriends. I hope the writer publishes a sequel or simply a standalone for every account. All those who are rom-com enthusiasts will absolutely adore the book. I would want to acknowledge Netgalley, the Author & the Publisher, for an e-ARC of this novel.
The author is incredibly gifted, ingenious & has a definite story-telling ability. I wholly savored reading all stories, but the sassy of the lot has to be the one including the bridezilla & her girlfriends. I hope the writer publishes a sequel or simply a standalone for every account. All those who are rom-com enthusiasts will absolutely adore the book. I would want to acknowledge Netgalley, the Author & the Publisher, for an e-ARC of this novel.
December 21, 2024
(3.5) This was such a good surprise! When I first picked up this book I didn’t really expect anything special out of it since it is a Wattpad Original and also the same author that wrote the Kissing Booth. (no hate butttt) I really didn’t think I would find this as enjoyable and fun to read as I did.
The story is about an apartment complex getting put under lockdown for a week due to a virus outbreak (sound familiar?) The characters each overcome their own challenges throughout the week whether it be getting trapped with a one night stand that tried to escape or trying to figure out the right way to purpose to your girlfriend.
It’s funny, dramatic interesting, and has small bits of informative life lessons. Definitely recommend if you like multiple povs, popcorn reads and light conflict.
The story is about an apartment complex getting put under lockdown for a week due to a virus outbreak (sound familiar?) The characters each overcome their own challenges throughout the week whether it be getting trapped with a one night stand that tried to escape or trying to figure out the right way to purpose to your girlfriend.
It’s funny, dramatic interesting, and has small bits of informative life lessons. Definitely recommend if you like multiple povs, popcorn reads and light conflict.
January 7, 2023
Is it weird as fuck that this gave me nostalgia for when we were all locked up in our houses, unable to do anything besides sleep all day, stay up all night, watch Tiger King and The Circle and have no clue what day it even was? Because it did and I loved it. 😂 this was super cute and I know so many people hate covid being in books or movies, but I think this spoke to so many people’s situations in March/April of 2020.
April 10, 2022
I requested this because I thought reading a lighthearted story dealing with a pandemic might be comforting, and that aspect of it definitely worked for me. Unfortunately the story itself worked less well for me, though. I debated DNF-ing a couple of times because I felt like the book went on forever, and honestly, I might as well have. The characters didn't stand out to me, nor did I find them compelling, and their storylines weren't particularly interesting.
January 22, 2022
LOCKDOWN ON LONDON LANE by Beth Reekles. The first Wattpad Book I've ever seen on NetGalley. Someone described it as a literary COVID "Love, Actually" and I fully agree. Gobbled this up in one afternoon! Out Feb 1.
Thanks to the author, Wattpad Books, and NetGalley for the ARC; opinions are mine.
#LockdownOnLondonLane #NetGalley
Thanks to the author, Wattpad Books, and NetGalley for the ARC; opinions are mine.
#LockdownOnLondonLane #NetGalley
March 27, 2022
Too funny ! About a bunch of people who get locked in apt building for a week during covid
September 23, 2022
Con el inicio de la pandemia, los habitantes de London Lane reciben una circular que cambia sus vidas: debido a la situación actual, los administradores del edificio han tomado la decisión de imponer una cuarentena de siete días en todo el edificio. Así, los ocupantes deberán permanecer encerrados durante toda una semana, a veces con alguien a quien esperaban no volver a ver...
Pensaba que sería únicamente la historia de un apartamento, pero en lugar de eso encontramos entrelazadas las historias de cinco pisos diferentes: una pareja de enamorados a los que la cuarentena pilla separados, una fuera del piso y el otro dentro; una pareja a la que el encierro le hará replantearse su relación; una joven que se queda encerrada con sus amigas, pues habían celebrado la despedida de solteras de una de ellas; una pareja que acaba de empezar a salir; y... un ligue de una noche que no tenía por qué durar más.
Me ha encantado ir siguiendo las diferentes historias, y repito que aunque me daba un poco de angustia leer sobre el confinamiento, ya os digo que aparte de eso, no se menciona apenas el tema de la pandemia, así que en ese sentido estamos "a salvo" de dramas y sufrimiento; digo en ese sentido porque en cada apartamento se vivirán momentos de tensión, de diversión, de sufrimiento... por distintos motivos, y me ha mantenido ENGANCHADÍSIMA.
Reseña completa: http://fiebrelectora.blogspot.com/202...
Pensaba que sería únicamente la historia de un apartamento, pero en lugar de eso encontramos entrelazadas las historias de cinco pisos diferentes: una pareja de enamorados a los que la cuarentena pilla separados, una fuera del piso y el otro dentro; una pareja a la que el encierro le hará replantearse su relación; una joven que se queda encerrada con sus amigas, pues habían celebrado la despedida de solteras de una de ellas; una pareja que acaba de empezar a salir; y... un ligue de una noche que no tenía por qué durar más.
Me ha encantado ir siguiendo las diferentes historias, y repito que aunque me daba un poco de angustia leer sobre el confinamiento, ya os digo que aparte de eso, no se menciona apenas el tema de la pandemia, así que en ese sentido estamos "a salvo" de dramas y sufrimiento; digo en ese sentido porque en cada apartamento se vivirán momentos de tensión, de diversión, de sufrimiento... por distintos motivos, y me ha mantenido ENGANCHADÍSIMA.
Reseña completa: http://fiebrelectora.blogspot.com/202...
January 21, 2022
A book set in the pandemic had me a little worried that I wasn’t going to enjoy it but it was a cute funny read and I loved all of the different romances
December 20, 2021
Please note that I received this via NetGalley. This did not affect my rating or review.
Loved this. So funny and heartfelt. Only reason why I gave it four stars was the flow was wonky to the point it messed with my reading and there was one story we follow that does not end in a HEA. I think you can intuit that the couple will get there, but I wish that it had been clearly shown/stated before the end of the book.
"Lockdown on London Lane" follows several people who are locked up in their building for 7 days after an exposure to COVID-19. The building supervisor refuses to let anyone enter or leave besides food and other deliveries. This leads to several people having an eye-opening experience about what matters to them.
We follow Ethan and Charlotte who are happily living together. But Ethan wonders about the future after Charlotte is locked out of their place. Zach and Serena have been together for 4 years, but after Zach orders something that she was not suspecting, Serena wonders where they go from here. Liv agrees to host a little bridal party at her place, and then when everyone is locked into her place, she wonders whether she will be able to survive 7 days with 3 other women living in her space. Isla has been dating Danny for just a month, and she thinks he's the one. Until he ends up being forced to stay with her for 7 days. Imogen has what she thinks is just a one night stand, until she gets told she can't leave the building. Back she goes to the apartment with a man whose name she can't recall (Nate).
Favorite couple/persons were honestly Ethan and Liv. Ethan realizing how much he cares/loves Charlotte and misses her was great to read. Liv has my sword, because I would have called my best friend out for being a Bridezilla too. And God help me. I would have lost it with being stuck inside with 3 other people for 7 days.
Indifferent feelings towards Zach and Serena. Sorry, her whole thing about Zach was insane. At least the book pivoted to that later on. But I got tired of reading about them. Also going to say Isla and Danny taking off those honeymoon glasses were hilarious.
I honestly didn't care for Imogen and Nate too much. She seemed and was still flighty. I don't know. I liked the others storylines much better than this one.
The writing was good, but the flow was off here and there. I think juggling this many characters was a bit rough in a few places. But I liked it. I will say though that I thought that quarantine was 10 days? I was surprised at the 7 day thing. I guess that was UK procedures.
The setting of the building and other people's individual places was good.
The ending for most of these people works out wonderfully.
Loved this. So funny and heartfelt. Only reason why I gave it four stars was the flow was wonky to the point it messed with my reading and there was one story we follow that does not end in a HEA. I think you can intuit that the couple will get there, but I wish that it had been clearly shown/stated before the end of the book.
"Lockdown on London Lane" follows several people who are locked up in their building for 7 days after an exposure to COVID-19. The building supervisor refuses to let anyone enter or leave besides food and other deliveries. This leads to several people having an eye-opening experience about what matters to them.
We follow Ethan and Charlotte who are happily living together. But Ethan wonders about the future after Charlotte is locked out of their place. Zach and Serena have been together for 4 years, but after Zach orders something that she was not suspecting, Serena wonders where they go from here. Liv agrees to host a little bridal party at her place, and then when everyone is locked into her place, she wonders whether she will be able to survive 7 days with 3 other women living in her space. Isla has been dating Danny for just a month, and she thinks he's the one. Until he ends up being forced to stay with her for 7 days. Imogen has what she thinks is just a one night stand, until she gets told she can't leave the building. Back she goes to the apartment with a man whose name she can't recall (Nate).
Favorite couple/persons were honestly Ethan and Liv. Ethan realizing how much he cares/loves Charlotte and misses her was great to read. Liv has my sword, because I would have called my best friend out for being a Bridezilla too. And God help me. I would have lost it with being stuck inside with 3 other people for 7 days.
Indifferent feelings towards Zach and Serena. Sorry, her whole thing about Zach was insane. At least the book pivoted to that later on. But I got tired of reading about them. Also going to say Isla and Danny taking off those honeymoon glasses were hilarious.
I honestly didn't care for Imogen and Nate too much. She seemed and was still flighty. I don't know. I liked the others storylines much better than this one.
The writing was good, but the flow was off here and there. I think juggling this many characters was a bit rough in a few places. But I liked it. I will say though that I thought that quarantine was 10 days? I was surprised at the 7 day thing. I guess that was UK procedures.
The setting of the building and other people's individual places was good.
The ending for most of these people works out wonderfully.
February 24, 2022
*Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for sending me an e-ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review*
Lockdown on London Lane by Beth Reekles catalogs the experiences of five different residents of an apartment building on London Lane. The inhabitants of each apartment receive a notice that the building is going into lockdown for a week, meaning they are trapped inside their apartments with whoever else is inside, for the remainder of the week.
The novel follows Ethan who must spend the week apart from his girlfriend Charlotte, which gives him time to reflect on their relationship; Serena, who lives with her long term boyfriend Zach dealing with the effects of forced proximity that forces them to evaluate their four-year relationship; Olivia who is trapped in her apartment the three other women, Kim, Lucy, and Addison, who were just supposed to spend the weekend making wedding decorations, and finally Imogen whose one-night stand turns into an unexpected week-long stay.
The concept of this book is super timely and very unique. I immediately added it to my wishlist when I read the synopsis. This novel does a really great job creating positive and almost comforting content around a disastrous event. It shows the real-life consequences of the world we’re living in now with a softer, less doom-oriented, approach. I really appreciated this interpretation of current events, although I understand how it might not be for everyone. I think it is possible to recognize and appreciate the way that the pandemic has brought people together and I think Beth Reekles does an excellent job highlighting that small but rewarding aspect of coronavirus while still creating a realistic interpretation of the environment.
My critique of this novel centers mostly around the characters and certain aspects of the writing styles. There were a lot of characters in this book. It’s one of the things that initially drew me to it. However, there wasn’t a whole lot of distinction between some of the characters. Ethan and Danny and Zach and Nate all started to blend together by the end because they were all “perfect” men who seemed to exhibit the same physical characteristics and all be amazing kissers. The female characters had slightly more depth to them but there was a slow reveal that each of them seemed to have some kind of connection to each other through a complicated web of friendship and family members which I found unnecessary and confusing. There were so many characters.
As far as the writing style goes it came off as an attempt to try to capture every pop culture and internet sensation that existed during the pandemic; from Twitch to Animal Crossing to Youtube to Fortnight to TikTok the pop culture references were overwhelming. I understand trying to capture the culture of the time but it really only focused on one aspect of that and it came off as removed and trying too hard.
Overall I think this book had amazing potential but wasn’t executed as well as it could have been. With slightly more character development and possibly cutting some characters, I think this book could have been a lot better. I still think there are many people who could connect to these characters and their stories and I loved the ambiguous endings which left openings for the stories to continue seemingly symbolizing the continuation of our lives after the pandemic. I definitely wouldn’t recommend this if the pandemic or COVID-19 is a triggering topic as it is a very central subject to the novel.
Lockdown on London Lane by Beth Reekles catalogs the experiences of five different residents of an apartment building on London Lane. The inhabitants of each apartment receive a notice that the building is going into lockdown for a week, meaning they are trapped inside their apartments with whoever else is inside, for the remainder of the week.
The novel follows Ethan who must spend the week apart from his girlfriend Charlotte, which gives him time to reflect on their relationship; Serena, who lives with her long term boyfriend Zach dealing with the effects of forced proximity that forces them to evaluate their four-year relationship; Olivia who is trapped in her apartment the three other women, Kim, Lucy, and Addison, who were just supposed to spend the weekend making wedding decorations, and finally Imogen whose one-night stand turns into an unexpected week-long stay.
The concept of this book is super timely and very unique. I immediately added it to my wishlist when I read the synopsis. This novel does a really great job creating positive and almost comforting content around a disastrous event. It shows the real-life consequences of the world we’re living in now with a softer, less doom-oriented, approach. I really appreciated this interpretation of current events, although I understand how it might not be for everyone. I think it is possible to recognize and appreciate the way that the pandemic has brought people together and I think Beth Reekles does an excellent job highlighting that small but rewarding aspect of coronavirus while still creating a realistic interpretation of the environment.
My critique of this novel centers mostly around the characters and certain aspects of the writing styles. There were a lot of characters in this book. It’s one of the things that initially drew me to it. However, there wasn’t a whole lot of distinction between some of the characters. Ethan and Danny and Zach and Nate all started to blend together by the end because they were all “perfect” men who seemed to exhibit the same physical characteristics and all be amazing kissers. The female characters had slightly more depth to them but there was a slow reveal that each of them seemed to have some kind of connection to each other through a complicated web of friendship and family members which I found unnecessary and confusing. There were so many characters.
As far as the writing style goes it came off as an attempt to try to capture every pop culture and internet sensation that existed during the pandemic; from Twitch to Animal Crossing to Youtube to Fortnight to TikTok the pop culture references were overwhelming. I understand trying to capture the culture of the time but it really only focused on one aspect of that and it came off as removed and trying too hard.
Overall I think this book had amazing potential but wasn’t executed as well as it could have been. With slightly more character development and possibly cutting some characters, I think this book could have been a lot better. I still think there are many people who could connect to these characters and their stories and I loved the ambiguous endings which left openings for the stories to continue seemingly symbolizing the continuation of our lives after the pandemic. I definitely wouldn’t recommend this if the pandemic or COVID-19 is a triggering topic as it is a very central subject to the novel.
March 7, 2022
To be honest, I expected a bunch of lockdown-centered books to pop up post the lockdown. Surprisingly, there have been fewer than I initially imagined. They have, however, covered every possible genre. Lockdown on London Lane is one of my favorites so far. The story of five apartments in a building that’s suddenly gone in complete lockdown for seven days is fascinating. Each apartment showcases a distinct relationship dynamic that keeps things fresh and moving. Overall the story is lighthearted and cute and very relatable.
February 14, 2022
This building on London Lane will never be the same!
This morning, the occupants of the London Lane building each received a note under their doors which basically said someone in the building has been diagnosed with this new mysterious virus and in order to prevent the spread within the building there will be a 7-day quarantine. No one is allowed to leave the building, and no one is allowed to enter.
This adorable story follows some of the tenants in the building who are now “stuck”. The question becomes which of the tenants’ relationships will survive the week!
Isla and Danny have been dating for a month. Danny has never seen the “real” Isla, who is very routine oriented, does not cook, and hides trinkets when Danny comes over because she doesn’t want to embarrass herself. Now Danny must stay there for the week! Isla’s first thought is how on earth will she poop? Can she hold it for a week? Still in their honeymoon phase, will Isla be capable of keeping the charade up, or will Danny find the real Isla impossible to live with?
Ethan and Charlotte live together and love each other. Sure, Ethan sometimes takes Charlotte for granted, but they are happy. Ethan is a video influence blogger and Charlotte has always supported his job. Charlotte was not home at the time of the lockdown. She was actually downstairs coming home from a weekend at her parent’s house when she was told she could not come in. Will absence make the hearts grow fonder, or will out of sight out of mind win the day?
Imogen finds out about the quarantine as she is trying to sneak out of the apartment of her can’t remember the name one-night stand’s apartment. What on earth will they do for the week? How will they ever survive when they don’t even know each other’s last names?
Zach and Serena have lived together for four years, although their friends and families said it would never last! They have always been on different shifts, so their time together had been limited. Now, they are in their tiny apartment together with nowhere to go. They are just not use to so much togetherness. And well, there is Selena’s sudden realization that Zach likes pineapple on his pizza! Could this be the deal breaker?
Liz loves living alone, but her weekend has been anything but quiet. She hosted a bridesmaid weekend party for her best friend which included other friends of the bride, some of which she did not even know. Now not only are they making a mess of her small apartment, but they are beginning to get on each other’s nerves. Then the bride hears that her fiancée thinks they should postpone the wedding and well…
Lockdown on London Lane is an enjoyable, fun, laugh out loud read when you have a few hours to spare, or perhaps, when you find yourself quarantined!
Thank you #NetGalley #WbyWattpadBooks #BethReekles #LockdownonLondonLane for the advanced copy.
This morning, the occupants of the London Lane building each received a note under their doors which basically said someone in the building has been diagnosed with this new mysterious virus and in order to prevent the spread within the building there will be a 7-day quarantine. No one is allowed to leave the building, and no one is allowed to enter.
This adorable story follows some of the tenants in the building who are now “stuck”. The question becomes which of the tenants’ relationships will survive the week!
Isla and Danny have been dating for a month. Danny has never seen the “real” Isla, who is very routine oriented, does not cook, and hides trinkets when Danny comes over because she doesn’t want to embarrass herself. Now Danny must stay there for the week! Isla’s first thought is how on earth will she poop? Can she hold it for a week? Still in their honeymoon phase, will Isla be capable of keeping the charade up, or will Danny find the real Isla impossible to live with?
Ethan and Charlotte live together and love each other. Sure, Ethan sometimes takes Charlotte for granted, but they are happy. Ethan is a video influence blogger and Charlotte has always supported his job. Charlotte was not home at the time of the lockdown. She was actually downstairs coming home from a weekend at her parent’s house when she was told she could not come in. Will absence make the hearts grow fonder, or will out of sight out of mind win the day?
Imogen finds out about the quarantine as she is trying to sneak out of the apartment of her can’t remember the name one-night stand’s apartment. What on earth will they do for the week? How will they ever survive when they don’t even know each other’s last names?
Zach and Serena have lived together for four years, although their friends and families said it would never last! They have always been on different shifts, so their time together had been limited. Now, they are in their tiny apartment together with nowhere to go. They are just not use to so much togetherness. And well, there is Selena’s sudden realization that Zach likes pineapple on his pizza! Could this be the deal breaker?
Liz loves living alone, but her weekend has been anything but quiet. She hosted a bridesmaid weekend party for her best friend which included other friends of the bride, some of which she did not even know. Now not only are they making a mess of her small apartment, but they are beginning to get on each other’s nerves. Then the bride hears that her fiancée thinks they should postpone the wedding and well…
Lockdown on London Lane is an enjoyable, fun, laugh out loud read when you have a few hours to spare, or perhaps, when you find yourself quarantined!
Thank you #NetGalley #WbyWattpadBooks #BethReekles #LockdownonLondonLane for the advanced copy.
December 9, 2023
I picked this book up at Costco, checked the reviews on goodreads, and thought “three stars, good enough.”
After reading it, I genuinely don’t understand how this book is getting four or five stars from anyone. The plot was hard to follow, there were FIVE different povs with characters that seemed to all have the same personality, and it took me until about halfway through the book before I could even remotely tell them apart. To make it worse, there was also some sort of weird intricate connection between all of the characters that was confusing and completely unnecessary. I ignored these parts and didn’t even try to understand them.
As if the plot wasn’t flawed enough, the writing was… worse. I didn’t realize when I bought this book that it came from Wattpad, but about two pages in I flipped the book over and saw the W and instantly cursed myself for not noticing sooner. I say this because there was absolutely no art to Reekle’s writing, and I was forced to enter into the “quirky” train of thought of each of the five characters who all. sounded. the. exact. same.
I will say that by the time I reached the end I was somewhat invested in the plot line, but overall this was just not a good read.
After reading it, I genuinely don’t understand how this book is getting four or five stars from anyone. The plot was hard to follow, there were FIVE different povs with characters that seemed to all have the same personality, and it took me until about halfway through the book before I could even remotely tell them apart. To make it worse, there was also some sort of weird intricate connection between all of the characters that was confusing and completely unnecessary. I ignored these parts and didn’t even try to understand them.
As if the plot wasn’t flawed enough, the writing was… worse. I didn’t realize when I bought this book that it came from Wattpad, but about two pages in I flipped the book over and saw the W and instantly cursed myself for not noticing sooner. I say this because there was absolutely no art to Reekle’s writing, and I was forced to enter into the “quirky” train of thought of each of the five characters who all. sounded. the. exact. same.
I will say that by the time I reached the end I was somewhat invested in the plot line, but overall this was just not a good read.
February 9, 2022
I wouldn't be at all surprised if this book was based on true events, and not just fiction. I could easily see that being true. The madness that the world is living in the past 2 years because of this masterpiece of a pandemic that the COVID-19 virus has created, made every little thing possible and every bat-shit-crazy thing seem totally normal and expected.
One week of lockdown, unable to go anywhere, going stir crazy inside your own home, losing all sense of time, and having your locked-down-eternally lunatic side waking from its deep sleep? Ha, who hasn't been there, done that? There isn't a more relatable concept on this earth right now - and maybe ever - than being in lockdown due to the pandemic.
One week. 7 days. 168 hours.
Sometimes that's all it takes for everything to come upside down..
me & the story
I may have made myself really acquainted with THE KISSING BOOTH movies - like the rest of the world also -, especially over the lockdown, but I never got to dive into the books and Beth Reekles's writing behind them. And that was a huge mistake on my part, especially as a reader & a reviewer. The moment that I stabled upon the book in NetGalley and read the title, I knew that it was one that I had to definitely read. When I realized who the author was, it made me even more intrigued to read it, so request on I went. I couldn't wait to get my hands on it. Perfect request.
The only thing that I was sure of was that it was a rom-com and that I would laugh and definitely fall in love. And I bloody hell did both of those things with a full captivated-reader mode on. I laughed my ass off, I swooned my full heart away, I got a permanent happy smile & had the time of my life with one of, as it turned out to be, the best romantic comedy stories.
I am just super happy. There is no better way than that to describe my reading of this book. This is the epitome of my review for this one when you need to come down to it. I more than loved every minute I spent curled up with the story & these amazing characters who felt like my neighbors, my friends, my quarantine/pandemic heroes.
Thank you so much dear Beth for writing this beautiful and inspiring book. I would forever treasure Nate, Imogen, Ethan, Charl, Liv, Addison, Kim, Luc, Serena, Zach, and of course Mr. Harris, for the special moments they shared with me.
PS: PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE. If Netflix, Passionflix, Universal, or anyone else hears me, I beg you, MAKE THIS BOOK A MOVIE!!! The world needs to fall in love with it just like I did from the very first word.
the couples & the apartments
Five apartments and eleven people whose life changes in ways that none of them could ever imagine.
Apartment #14 - Imogen & Nate.
Or as it is best known. the longest one-night stand in the history of one-night stands.
"The girl I just hooked up with has already moved in with me"
Imogen after her one-night stand with Nate, or aka Honeypots , is trying to escape "the scene of the crime", along with a very soft Ramones T-shirt which later will become a major trading asset, but the building management has other ideas. So she finds herself back at his door, barging into his life for the foreseeable week.... for now. Nate doesn't know what hit him, in the best and greatest way possible.
"I am chaotic." " You're a goddamn hurricane."
The way their relationship develops in just 5 days and they go from total strangers to unable to be without the other is beyond cute. These two show that the concept of time or what society deems appropriate doesn't apply when it comes to when you find true love and true connection with someone. It doesn't matter how it starts; what matters is what you do to go after it and make it work and real.
-----------------------------------
Apartment #6 - Ethan & Charlotte
During the lockdowns in the real world, a lot of people became viral overnight; but none of that beats Ethan's way. I mean, *sighhhhhh*
Now THAT'S what I'm calling romance gold & the best proposal that was ever been written in fiction. To say that Reekles nailed the romanticism with this one, would be the understatement of the year.
Ethan is a vlogger/YouTuber who unexpectedly finds himself on lockdown on his own when Charlotte isn't allowed into the building, after returning from a weekend at her parents. So, now the sweet, dorky Ethan has to navigate seven days without his girl locked inside their own apartment, missing her every day. What could go wrong, except when he finally realizes that he wants to spend the rest of his life with his Charl by his side, by mistake uploads his 1-hour-long attempted-proposal(s) video for the whole world to see?
I wish she were here right now
-----------------------------------
Apartment #15 - Isla & Danny
During the honeymoon phase of our every new relationship, we try to look our best and keep the fantasy & desire alive. The parts of ourselves that make us weird, odd, but most importantly true to who we really are, tend to be kept contained for a while until a significant amount of time has passed by... according to society.
But what do you do when you can't keep those parts hidden anymore and you're afraid to be who you really are because of some twisted fears & insecurities that our today's social media world has created in you, making you think that to be loved by someone you need to be someone else, a fake you?
What's important, I realize, is how much we both want to make this work. That's what's making all the difference here.
Isla and Danny are at the start of their relationship and completely gone for each other. They don't know yet everything about each other's true self but they are getting there little by little. The lockdown comes as a slap to their face and it forces their relationship to enter an F1 race where you can't go under 200 Km/s and skip a few beats down the line. Both of them are totally unprepared for it, especially Isla.
Danny, though, is nothing like the men she has known so far, and he turns out to be her true match and what she really needed to start loving herself as she is with all her flaws, imperfection, and quirks.
-----------------------------------
Apartment #22 - Olivia & the wedding trio
If that is what looks like when you are in the role of Maid of Honor, I will bow out gracefully thank you!
Olivia has a best friend, Kim. Kim is getting married in six months, which means she has turned TOTAL BRIDEZILLA. Also, Kim has made Liv her Maid of Honor, which kind of means Slave of the Bride. :p
So, Liv organized that fateful wedding-checklist weekend with her, Kim, and her two bridesmaids, Addison & Lucy. But that weekend it was never meant to be finished, and these four women find themselves locked in the same apartment with too much booze, secrets, withheld opinions, and a nervous system minutes before a total breakdown. Which, sooner or later, happens and it's as much as explosive as it's revealing.
-----------------------------------
Apartment #17 - Serena & Zach
Never pineapple on pizza has created so much trouble.
Serena & Zach have been together for 4 years now and are living together for most of those years. So, when they are forced to stay locked inside their own home for the whole week, none of them thought that it would be any different from their everyday life and the time would probably bring them closer to each other.
A pineapple pizza order, though, puts their whole relationship in question and creates a huge strain between them. They are forced to reevaluate everything and start looking for what has gone wrong in order to repair it.
You could see clear as day the love they had for each other since they never stopped to think about giving up on them, not even once, no matter what was happening. They didn't let their love all these years go to waste.
At least I've got Zach by my side.
September 27, 2022
Aquí estoy yo, lo confieso: soy una de esas personas reacia a leer cualquier cosa que esté relacionada con pandemia, confinamiento, etc, y que ha disfrutado mucho con esta historia.
Me he encontrado con una sorpresa de lo más agradable. Una comedia que destila buen rollo, que me hacía sentir bien mientras la leía y me hizo sentir bien cuando la acabé, que mantiene un ritmo bastante estable a lo largo de sus páginas ya que, a pesar de contarnos las aventuras de varios vecinos de un bloque de apartamentos, son todas tan entretenidas e interesantes que saltas de una a otra queriendo saber más.
Un bloque de apartamentos que debe ser confinado porque uno de sus vecinos ha dado positivo en covid. Las historias de los inquilinos de cinco de esos inquilinos, algunos acompañados, otros solos, e incluso alguno con un vínculo entre sí. Cómo cada uno de ellos afronta el encierro dependiendo de sus circunstancias y cómo consigue la autora que todos ellos resulten diferentes y claramente distinguibles...y todo ello de una manera tan amena y divertida que lees el libro sin darte ni cuenta.
Personalmente, "Don Tarro de Miel" me ha parecido encantador y adorable, pero cuesta mucho elegir un solo personaje.
En fin, que recomiendo este libro para pasar un buen rato, olvidarte de preocupaciones y poner una sonrisa en tu cara mientras lo lees.
Me he encontrado con una sorpresa de lo más agradable. Una comedia que destila buen rollo, que me hacía sentir bien mientras la leía y me hizo sentir bien cuando la acabé, que mantiene un ritmo bastante estable a lo largo de sus páginas ya que, a pesar de contarnos las aventuras de varios vecinos de un bloque de apartamentos, son todas tan entretenidas e interesantes que saltas de una a otra queriendo saber más.
Un bloque de apartamentos que debe ser confinado porque uno de sus vecinos ha dado positivo en covid. Las historias de los inquilinos de cinco de esos inquilinos, algunos acompañados, otros solos, e incluso alguno con un vínculo entre sí. Cómo cada uno de ellos afronta el encierro dependiendo de sus circunstancias y cómo consigue la autora que todos ellos resulten diferentes y claramente distinguibles...y todo ello de una manera tan amena y divertida que lees el libro sin darte ni cuenta.
Personalmente, "Don Tarro de Miel" me ha parecido encantador y adorable, pero cuesta mucho elegir un solo personaje.
En fin, que recomiendo este libro para pasar un buen rato, olvidarte de preocupaciones y poner una sonrisa en tu cara mientras lo lees.
January 14, 2022
This book takes place at the beginning of the pandemic in an apartment building in London. It takes place entirely over the course of one week. Personally, I enjoy when a book takes place over a short timespan.
At the start of this book, the residents of an apartment building all get notified that they have to quarantine in their apartment for the next week. Someone in the building has COVID, so whoever is in the apartment is staying in for a week and whoever is outside can’t get in for a week.
We meet the tenants in several apartments most are in their own terrible scenario (some definitely worse than others).
In one apartment, Ethan’s live in girlfriend is shut out for the week after staying the weekend with her parents.
In another, Isla is staying with her boyfriend of one month. They are incredibly happy in this early part of their relationship but being stick together for a week is rough. They’ve both been on the best behavior around each other up to this point.
Imogen was trying to sneak out of an apartment where she’d had a one night stand with a man she barely knew (she doesn’t even remember his first name).
One apartment resident has been hosting her best friend’s bridal party for the weekend. She barely knows these women and now they will be there all week (this sounds like a nightmare!)
And in another apartment, a long term couple is questioning the commitment they made to each other…their drama all starts with a pineapple pizza.
All of these people are forced into close proximity (other than Ethan) with people for the week. Everyone is questioning their relationships in some way during and after. Some people are broken down by the stress of the pandemic and eventually resolve their fights, others might have been pushed to have a conversation they would have avoided otherwise.
At the end of the week everyone is free again but it breaks your heart to know that they don’t even know what lies ahead over the next two years.
Clever idea for a storyline and setting. Some of the characters got on my nerves sometimes but they got on each other’s nerves too lol
I thought the end of one of the character’s storylines was especially sweet.
I got to read an early ebook edition from BookishFirst.
At the start of this book, the residents of an apartment building all get notified that they have to quarantine in their apartment for the next week. Someone in the building has COVID, so whoever is in the apartment is staying in for a week and whoever is outside can’t get in for a week.
We meet the tenants in several apartments most are in their own terrible scenario (some definitely worse than others).
In one apartment, Ethan’s live in girlfriend is shut out for the week after staying the weekend with her parents.
In another, Isla is staying with her boyfriend of one month. They are incredibly happy in this early part of their relationship but being stick together for a week is rough. They’ve both been on the best behavior around each other up to this point.
Imogen was trying to sneak out of an apartment where she’d had a one night stand with a man she barely knew (she doesn’t even remember his first name).
One apartment resident has been hosting her best friend’s bridal party for the weekend. She barely knows these women and now they will be there all week (this sounds like a nightmare!)
And in another apartment, a long term couple is questioning the commitment they made to each other…their drama all starts with a pineapple pizza.
All of these people are forced into close proximity (other than Ethan) with people for the week. Everyone is questioning their relationships in some way during and after. Some people are broken down by the stress of the pandemic and eventually resolve their fights, others might have been pushed to have a conversation they would have avoided otherwise.
At the end of the week everyone is free again but it breaks your heart to know that they don’t even know what lies ahead over the next two years.
Clever idea for a storyline and setting. Some of the characters got on my nerves sometimes but they got on each other’s nerves too lol
I thought the end of one of the character’s storylines was especially sweet.
I got to read an early ebook edition from BookishFirst.
February 13, 2023
Loved it
August 15, 2022
3-3.5
Disfruto mucho con los libros de esta autora: son entretenidos y muy monos. Aunque admito que en esta ocasión, al tratar del confinamiento por el covid me daba un poco de angustia, pero ver los dramas y las historias que se desarrollaban en cada casa ha sido la mar de gracioso y emocionante. Personalmente, me quedo con la del youtuber!
Disfruto mucho con los libros de esta autora: son entretenidos y muy monos. Aunque admito que en esta ocasión, al tratar del confinamiento por el covid me daba un poco de angustia, pero ver los dramas y las historias que se desarrollaban en cada casa ha sido la mar de gracioso y emocionante. Personalmente, me quedo con la del youtuber!
September 24, 2021
Do you like the movie Love, Actually? Then this is the perfect book for you. We follow five different groups of people, who all live in the same apartment complex which is shut down for 7 days during a pandemic lockdown. And we probably all know, how that feels.
The whole book gave me cozy rom-com vibes and there were definitely the trademark points, that can’t be missed in a rom-com. We have:
• a couple, that’s together for some time and starts re-evaluating their relationship
• a couple, that has to do social distancing, since one was not home when the lockdown started
• four friends, who had a sleepover when the lockdown started and are now trapped in the apartment
• a couple, that is in the honeymoon phase of the relationship, since they only started dating a month prior
• and (my personal favorite) a one-night stand, who can’t leave the house and has to stay with the guy, she met over a dating app
All these different stories are told through the whole 7 days and I enjoyed getting to know them all and their situations. I personally think there was some character growth for the different characters and in the end, this book had everything it needed to be a fun and great read for me.
The whole book gave me cozy rom-com vibes and there were definitely the trademark points, that can’t be missed in a rom-com. We have:
• a couple, that’s together for some time and starts re-evaluating their relationship
• a couple, that has to do social distancing, since one was not home when the lockdown started
• four friends, who had a sleepover when the lockdown started and are now trapped in the apartment
• a couple, that is in the honeymoon phase of the relationship, since they only started dating a month prior
• and (my personal favorite) a one-night stand, who can’t leave the house and has to stay with the guy, she met over a dating app
All these different stories are told through the whole 7 days and I enjoyed getting to know them all and their situations. I personally think there was some character growth for the different characters and in the end, this book had everything it needed to be a fun and great read for me.
December 28, 2021
What a read indeed.
As I mentioned in my mid-book review on Instagram, I never thought I'd be reading books about the trials and tribulations of COVID-19... like I most of the time read to escape... and those I was reading about some entirely different situations (that thankfully, I didn't have to experience) I never dreamt of escaping my reality to read of someone else's "not-so-fictional" reality... Beth Reekles should have classified this book as a Historical Fiction, technically speaking.
I'm deciding to give it 4/5 stars instead 5/5 stars, because though I could pick up some contemporary romance vibes, I definitely was expecting a more catastrophic breakup to emerge from the outbursts that occurred. I also would have loved for the text to be a bit longer, seeing as how just a week in lockdown hasn't even been the worst of it. Regardless it was a great read and I'm so thankful for the opportunity to take a sneak glance/read-through of it, in accordance with BookishFirst, Beth Reekles, and WattPad Books.
Thank you again!
As I mentioned in my mid-book review on Instagram, I never thought I'd be reading books about the trials and tribulations of COVID-19... like I most of the time read to escape... and those I was reading about some entirely different situations (that thankfully, I didn't have to experience) I never dreamt of escaping my reality to read of someone else's "not-so-fictional" reality... Beth Reekles should have classified this book as a Historical Fiction, technically speaking.
I'm deciding to give it 4/5 stars instead 5/5 stars, because though I could pick up some contemporary romance vibes, I definitely was expecting a more catastrophic breakup to emerge from the outbursts that occurred. I also would have loved for the text to be a bit longer, seeing as how just a week in lockdown hasn't even been the worst of it. Regardless it was a great read and I'm so thankful for the opportunity to take a sneak glance/read-through of it, in accordance with BookishFirst, Beth Reekles, and WattPad Books.
Thank you again!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 3, 2022
THIS IS SO FREAKIN ADORABLE AND HEARTBREAKING AT THE SAME TIME.
Because of the multiple POVs, I'm gonna break down the review with each couple/apartment!!
Apartment #14 - Imogen & Nathan:
"Nate?"
"Yeah?"
"Kiss me again."
And oh, he does.
Imogen and Nathan are my favorites just because of how ridiculous their situation is. Imagine having to live with someone for a week, that you planned to have a one-night stand with. To make it more awkward, imagine sneaking out in the morning just to have to walk back to the same apartment you left from and face the person you just snuck out on...and you don't even remember their name. It's hilarious but I love them both so much. Imogen's chaoticness and Nathan's proper organized self are exactly what it means that opposites attract. The way Nate is such a gentleman and Imogen just wants him to let loose IS THE CUTEST THING. I just know they have mind-blowing sex.
Apartment #6 - Ethan & Charlotte:
Honestly, I'd give anything to be snuggled on the sofa with her right now, binge-watching the Twilight movies.
Ethan and Charlottle are the embodiment of adorable. I've literally never seen a cuter head over heels for each other couple. The way Ethan isn't embarrassed to say how much he loves her and misses her and is desperate without her made my heart melt I was about to cry. A man who would cuddle with me to watch twilight?? SIGN ME UPPPPP. The mistakenly posted video was pretty predictable but honestly, I'm not mad about it because that was also way too cute.
Apartment #17 - Serena & Zach:
He kisses the top of my head then steps back, holding me at arm's length.
"I love you. You know that right?"
I nod, sniffling. Shit, I am crying. Brilliant.
"Yeah. Yeah, I know. I love you too."
Serena and Zach's relationship is what broke my heart. They love each other so much and desperately want a future and the way they're trying so much to work it out makes my heart HURT. The way they care about each other is so beautiful AND THEY BETTER GET THROUGH THIS. I NEED TO KNOW THEY GET THROUGH THIS. I can also relate to Serena's overthinking so much and I feel like I connected with her most in this book.
Apartment #15 - Isla & Danny:
"Don't," I say, still giggling. "Danny, I'm all gross and sweaty."
"I don't mind," he murmurs, kissing all over my face and making me laugh again before his hands are around my waist and he draws me close, his lips on mine, and I can feel myself positively melting into him.
THEM. ISLA IS WHO I ASPIRE TO BE. DANNY IS SUCH A SWEETHEART. If the man I marry doesn't cook me 3-course meals I DONT WANT IT. THEY'RE SO IN LOVE AND THEY'RE SO CUTE. THEIR PUPPY DOG LOVE MAKES ME GRIN. Isla and Danny are the sweetest I just wanna hug them.
Apartment #22 - Olivia/Kim/Addison/Lucy:
"You know, since it's probably gonna be a while before we get to do a date IRL,"--oh, Jesus, she actually said "IRL," am I sure about this?--"I think we should probably do that again."
Whether she's the kind of person who says IRL or not--I absolutely, wholeheartedly, agree.
And I kiss her again.
Olivia's situation is exactly why I will never invite people over to my house to sleep over. NOPE, I COULD NEVER BEAR A WHOLE WEEK STUCK WITH PEOPLE I MOSTLY DON'T KNOW. I hated Kim for her outburst because actually what the fuck?? Lucy is an adorable little cinnamon roll that MUST BE PROTECTED. I wanna be friends with Addison because she seems like so much fun. I'm gonna keep you guessing about who that quote is talking about so you can go read the book to find out :)
Overall I loved this book so much!! I didn't expect to especially because it was about COVID and I thought "I'm already dealing with this shit why would I wanna read about it when I read to escape" but to be honest this book is more about how people cope especially in relationships when they're forced to be stuck together for a week. It's beautiful, heartbreaking, funny and SO CUTE.
Because of the multiple POVs, I'm gonna break down the review with each couple/apartment!!
Apartment #14 - Imogen & Nathan:
"Nate?"
"Yeah?"
"Kiss me again."
And oh, he does.
Imogen and Nathan are my favorites just because of how ridiculous their situation is. Imagine having to live with someone for a week, that you planned to have a one-night stand with. To make it more awkward, imagine sneaking out in the morning just to have to walk back to the same apartment you left from and face the person you just snuck out on...and you don't even remember their name. It's hilarious but I love them both so much. Imogen's chaoticness and Nathan's proper organized self are exactly what it means that opposites attract. The way Nate is such a gentleman and Imogen just wants him to let loose IS THE CUTEST THING. I just know they have mind-blowing sex.
Apartment #6 - Ethan & Charlotte:
Honestly, I'd give anything to be snuggled on the sofa with her right now, binge-watching the Twilight movies.
Ethan and Charlottle are the embodiment of adorable. I've literally never seen a cuter head over heels for each other couple. The way Ethan isn't embarrassed to say how much he loves her and misses her and is desperate without her made my heart melt I was about to cry. A man who would cuddle with me to watch twilight?? SIGN ME UPPPPP. The mistakenly posted video was pretty predictable but honestly, I'm not mad about it because that was also way too cute.
Apartment #17 - Serena & Zach:
He kisses the top of my head then steps back, holding me at arm's length.
"I love you. You know that right?"
I nod, sniffling. Shit, I am crying. Brilliant.
"Yeah. Yeah, I know. I love you too."
Serena and Zach's relationship is what broke my heart. They love each other so much and desperately want a future and the way they're trying so much to work it out makes my heart HURT. The way they care about each other is so beautiful AND THEY BETTER GET THROUGH THIS. I NEED TO KNOW THEY GET THROUGH THIS. I can also relate to Serena's overthinking so much and I feel like I connected with her most in this book.
Apartment #15 - Isla & Danny:
"Don't," I say, still giggling. "Danny, I'm all gross and sweaty."
"I don't mind," he murmurs, kissing all over my face and making me laugh again before his hands are around my waist and he draws me close, his lips on mine, and I can feel myself positively melting into him.
THEM. ISLA IS WHO I ASPIRE TO BE. DANNY IS SUCH A SWEETHEART. If the man I marry doesn't cook me 3-course meals I DONT WANT IT. THEY'RE SO IN LOVE AND THEY'RE SO CUTE. THEIR PUPPY DOG LOVE MAKES ME GRIN. Isla and Danny are the sweetest I just wanna hug them.
Apartment #22 - Olivia/Kim/Addison/Lucy:
"You know, since it's probably gonna be a while before we get to do a date IRL,"--oh, Jesus, she actually said "IRL," am I sure about this?--"I think we should probably do that again."
Whether she's the kind of person who says IRL or not--I absolutely, wholeheartedly, agree.
And I kiss her again.
Olivia's situation is exactly why I will never invite people over to my house to sleep over. NOPE, I COULD NEVER BEAR A WHOLE WEEK STUCK WITH PEOPLE I MOSTLY DON'T KNOW. I hated Kim for her outburst because actually what the fuck?? Lucy is an adorable little cinnamon roll that MUST BE PROTECTED. I wanna be friends with Addison because she seems like so much fun. I'm gonna keep you guessing about who that quote is talking about so you can go read the book to find out :)
Overall I loved this book so much!! I didn't expect to especially because it was about COVID and I thought "I'm already dealing with this shit why would I wanna read about it when I read to escape" but to be honest this book is more about how people cope especially in relationships when they're forced to be stuck together for a week. It's beautiful, heartbreaking, funny and SO CUTE.
February 1, 2022
🥳Happy Pub Day!! 🥳
4/5 stars.
Finished 1/31/22.
This was a cute read!! Very relatable, considering the times we are living in. I felt myself transported back to March of 2020 when this was all brand new and times were so uncertain (I mean, we're still in the thick of it, but things feel a little less uncertain nowadays).
This book took me a bit to finish, and I think that was more a *me* problem than a *book* problem. I think it was a personal mistake of mine to read two books in Jan that relate to Covid (I also read "Wish you Were Here") while actually on a COVID quarantine. 😵💫 By the time I'd finished that book, I needed a break before picking this one up again. But again, that wasn't the book's fault. 😊 The author makes it clear what we're getting ourselves into here.
While this was a bit far fetched (I mean.... apartment complexes can't *really* lockdown their buildings and residents lol), I was able to suspend reality and allow myself to be entertained by the many stories/characters/relationships and their drama. The author did a great job of bringing humor to an otherwise overwhelming and sad situation. It was also well-written with good pacing.
Thank you Net Galley, the author and the publisher for my advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. ❤️
4/5 stars.
Finished 1/31/22.
This was a cute read!! Very relatable, considering the times we are living in. I felt myself transported back to March of 2020 when this was all brand new and times were so uncertain (I mean, we're still in the thick of it, but things feel a little less uncertain nowadays).
This book took me a bit to finish, and I think that was more a *me* problem than a *book* problem. I think it was a personal mistake of mine to read two books in Jan that relate to Covid (I also read "Wish you Were Here") while actually on a COVID quarantine. 😵💫 By the time I'd finished that book, I needed a break before picking this one up again. But again, that wasn't the book's fault. 😊 The author makes it clear what we're getting ourselves into here.
While this was a bit far fetched (I mean.... apartment complexes can't *really* lockdown their buildings and residents lol), I was able to suspend reality and allow myself to be entertained by the many stories/characters/relationships and their drama. The author did a great job of bringing humor to an otherwise overwhelming and sad situation. It was also well-written with good pacing.
Thank you Net Galley, the author and the publisher for my advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. ❤️
September 30, 2022
"𝘛𝘢𝘮𝘣𝘪𝘦́𝘯 𝘰𝘥𝘪𝘰 𝘲𝘶𝘦 𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘰 𝘮𝘦 𝘩𝘢𝘨𝘢 𝑝𝘦𝘳𝘤𝘢𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘮𝘦 𝘥𝘦 𝘭𝘰 𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘤𝘢 𝘲𝘶𝘦 𝘴𝘰𝘺. 𝘕𝘶𝘯𝘤𝘢 𝘮𝘦 𝘩𝘢𝘣í𝘢 𝘥𝘢𝘥𝘰 𝘤𝘶𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘢 𝘥𝘦 𝘲𝘶𝘦 𝘭𝘰 𝘦𝘳𝘢, 𝘺 𝘯𝘰 𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘺 𝘴𝘦𝘨𝘶𝘳𝘢 𝘥𝘦 𝘲𝘶𝘦 𝘮𝘦 𝘨𝘶𝘴𝘵𝘦 𝘮𝘶𝘤𝘩𝘰 𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘢 𝘧𝘢𝘤𝘦𝘵𝘢 𝘥𝘦 𝘮í 𝘮𝘪𝘴𝘮𝘢".
Confinamiento obligado e inesperado, encerrado/a con personas que no conoces muy bien o en soledad. Parejas comenzando o en crisis. Proximidad forzada. ¿Qué podría malir sal? 😜🤣
Un virus supercontagioso y, en algunos casos, mortal ha obligado a tomar medidas extremas. Es por esto que el bloque C de departamentos de la Calle London Lane ha quedado confinada por siete días ya que uno de sus residentes ha dado positivo.
De una manera divertida, sin grandes dramas vemos como se desarrollan éstos siete días en cinco departamentos del bloque. Son cinco circunstancias diferentes pero todas vistas desde un prisma del buen rollo. Si bien nos trae a la mente lo que fueron esos días de confinamiento, en mi caso, no me trajo malos recuerdos. Cada capítulo que leía me dejaba una sensación de bienestar y me divertí mucho leyendo.
De las cinco historias me cuesta mucho decir cuál fue mi favorita; todas me gustaron. Pero por los momentos graciosos creo que Isla ha sido la que más. Y el "Señor Tarro de Miel" es otro que me ha encantado.
Confinamiento obligado e inesperado, encerrado/a con personas que no conoces muy bien o en soledad. Parejas comenzando o en crisis. Proximidad forzada. ¿Qué podría malir sal? 😜🤣
Un virus supercontagioso y, en algunos casos, mortal ha obligado a tomar medidas extremas. Es por esto que el bloque C de departamentos de la Calle London Lane ha quedado confinada por siete días ya que uno de sus residentes ha dado positivo.
De una manera divertida, sin grandes dramas vemos como se desarrollan éstos siete días en cinco departamentos del bloque. Son cinco circunstancias diferentes pero todas vistas desde un prisma del buen rollo. Si bien nos trae a la mente lo que fueron esos días de confinamiento, en mi caso, no me trajo malos recuerdos. Cada capítulo que leía me dejaba una sensación de bienestar y me divertí mucho leyendo.
De las cinco historias me cuesta mucho decir cuál fue mi favorita; todas me gustaron. Pero por los momentos graciosos creo que Isla ha sido la que más. Y el "Señor Tarro de Miel" es otro que me ha encantado.
October 23, 2022
De la noche a la mañana, los vecinos de un edificio se verán obligados a permanecer siete días encerrados en sus casas. Es entretenido, pero lo esperaba más divertido. Veremos cómo cada vecino se enfrenta al confinamiento, así que nos encontramos con amores, reconciliaciones y hasta rupturas. No sabría quedarme con una de las historias, pero sí me hubiese gustado que alguna se alargara un pelín más. De personajes me quedo con el portero.
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