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Benidorm, actually
“Ladies and Gentlemen, we will shortly be arriving into Alicante. Please ensure your big lips and heavy eyebrows are securely fastened, your eyelashes are stowed in the upright position and your leg tattoos are clearly visible for landing.”
Connie Cooper’s classical music career is at a dead-end. She’s singing cheap covers to a sea of bald heads and the nearest she has been to a romantic relationship in years is watching the Bridgerton buttocks scene on a continuous loop.
The last thing she needs is to be on a flight to Benidorm with strict instructions to impress the boss of Jezebel Music. But as she tries to keep up with support band, The Dollz, and the constant flashmob dancing, the going out in less than you’d wear on the beach and their obsession with the promiscuous bearded-Nuns in the villa next door, the boss seems less and less impressed.
The clock is ticking. She’s meant to be finding her voice, not finding his brooding good-looks irresistibly attractive… How can she show him that she has what it takes to succeed?
That’s right. Instead of just being herself, she’ll follow The Dollz’ advice to dress like a low-rent stripper and impress him by pole-dancing on top of a table full of drinks.
What could go wrong?
An uplifting, laugh-out-loud, romantic comedy. Ideal for fans of Sophie Cousens, Mhairi McFarlane and Lindsey Kelk.
Heart-warming, laugh-out loud funny and wonderfully romantic!
Connie Cooper’s classical music career is at a dead-end. She’s singing cheap covers to a sea of bald heads and the nearest she has been to a romantic relationship in years is watching the Bridgerton buttocks scene on a continuous loop.
The last thing she needs is to be on a flight to Benidorm with strict instructions to impress the boss of Jezebel Music. But as she tries to keep up with support band, The Dollz, and the constant flashmob dancing, the going out in less than you’d wear on the beach and their obsession with the promiscuous bearded-Nuns in the villa next door, the boss seems less and less impressed.
The clock is ticking. She’s meant to be finding her voice, not finding his brooding good-looks irresistibly attractive… How can she show him that she has what it takes to succeed?
That’s right. Instead of just being herself, she’ll follow The Dollz’ advice to dress like a low-rent stripper and impress him by pole-dancing on top of a table full of drinks.
What could go wrong?
An uplifting, laugh-out-loud, romantic comedy. Ideal for fans of Sophie Cousens, Mhairi McFarlane and Lindsey Kelk.
Heart-warming, laugh-out loud funny and wonderfully romantic!
- GenresFiction
349 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 10, 2022
16 people are currently reading
74 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
February 14, 2023
Upfront, this is not the kind of book I would normally read - mainly because I'm all about angst and human suffering and frankly this book is beyond joyous. And probably for that reason, I absolutely loved it.
This is a story about a woman dealing with terrible grief and a deep lack of faith in her own abilities who is pressured by her singing agent to disappear off to Benidorm with a group of utterly delightful Geordie women who want nothing more than a great time in the sun. There are crossed wires, hurt feelings and also a delightful romance in with a barrel-load of laughs, but for me the thing that shone through clearest was the way the unlikely friendship Connie develops with The Dollz helps her overcome her barriers and take steps forward into a better future.
An utterly satisfying, giggle-throughout read!!
This is a story about a woman dealing with terrible grief and a deep lack of faith in her own abilities who is pressured by her singing agent to disappear off to Benidorm with a group of utterly delightful Geordie women who want nothing more than a great time in the sun. There are crossed wires, hurt feelings and also a delightful romance in with a barrel-load of laughs, but for me the thing that shone through clearest was the way the unlikely friendship Connie develops with The Dollz helps her overcome her barriers and take steps forward into a better future.
An utterly satisfying, giggle-throughout read!!
April 4, 2023
What a hoot! This book has made me want to jump on a plane to somewhere sunny right away. The cast of characters was fun; the Dollz made me laugh out loud a number of times. Matteo was a properly swoon-worthy hero and I enjoyed watching Connie grow throughout the story. Now, I just need the recipe for a Skanky Lady cocktail...
January 27, 2024
I absolutely loved this romantic comedy, featuring Connie and Matteo who endure multiple disasters and accidents, set in Spain.
Connie is a classical singer who struggles to move on with her life after the death of her mother. But when she gets an offer to sing in Spain at music venues with a female singing group, the Dollz, she knows it’s something she must do to make money. She’d recently lost her job and only has singing to fall back on.
Disasters, initiated by the Dollz cause problems, and the women seemingly all have ADHD personalities and love to drink, drink, and drink some more, influencing Connie to drink, drink, and drink. Poor Matteo experiences the full brunt of these accidents.
Connie has a hard time saying no to the girls and doesn’t believe in herself, seeing herself as a failure. Particularly in her first performance when the Dollz accidentally leave her behind at the villa she’s staying at. Connie then needs to find her own way to the venue but has little time to prepare, and fumbles with the performance. She struggles to manage her playlist on the phone, sings all the wrong songs, and needs a phone charger because of a low battery. Hardly professional.
It takes the support of her female group, Matteo, and her best friends, Liam and Ged to pep her up, take control of her life and recharge her singing persona. Not only that, but a series of growing experiences makes Connie realise she has skills and strengths, developing her self-confidence.
Eventually, rather than singing depressing songs because of her ongoing grief, Connie soon learns to revitalise her music and begins entertaining her audience by being just like the Dollz, who are dazzling on stage. She starts to write her own music that comes from the heart, and later shares them with an audience who love her songs.
The connection between Connie and Matteo sizzles, but after realising she hardly knows the man who is secretive about his life, the truth comes out. She is heartbroken when discovering new things about Matteo and berates herself for falling in love with the man. The Dollz come to her rescue, and even Liam and Ged support her by visiting Connie in Spain.
Connie finds her voice and starts to believe in herself, and the value she has as a person and singer. When things get back on track, she is living the best version of herself.
I love the humour in this brilliantly-told story, the heartfelt connection between Connie and Matteo, and the diverse set of characters. I could not stop laughing at the clever words and scenes, enjoying the happy way it ended. This is well-written and witty, and I highly recommend it.
Connie is a classical singer who struggles to move on with her life after the death of her mother. But when she gets an offer to sing in Spain at music venues with a female singing group, the Dollz, she knows it’s something she must do to make money. She’d recently lost her job and only has singing to fall back on.
Disasters, initiated by the Dollz cause problems, and the women seemingly all have ADHD personalities and love to drink, drink, and drink some more, influencing Connie to drink, drink, and drink. Poor Matteo experiences the full brunt of these accidents.
Connie has a hard time saying no to the girls and doesn’t believe in herself, seeing herself as a failure. Particularly in her first performance when the Dollz accidentally leave her behind at the villa she’s staying at. Connie then needs to find her own way to the venue but has little time to prepare, and fumbles with the performance. She struggles to manage her playlist on the phone, sings all the wrong songs, and needs a phone charger because of a low battery. Hardly professional.
It takes the support of her female group, Matteo, and her best friends, Liam and Ged to pep her up, take control of her life and recharge her singing persona. Not only that, but a series of growing experiences makes Connie realise she has skills and strengths, developing her self-confidence.
Eventually, rather than singing depressing songs because of her ongoing grief, Connie soon learns to revitalise her music and begins entertaining her audience by being just like the Dollz, who are dazzling on stage. She starts to write her own music that comes from the heart, and later shares them with an audience who love her songs.
The connection between Connie and Matteo sizzles, but after realising she hardly knows the man who is secretive about his life, the truth comes out. She is heartbroken when discovering new things about Matteo and berates herself for falling in love with the man. The Dollz come to her rescue, and even Liam and Ged support her by visiting Connie in Spain.
Connie finds her voice and starts to believe in herself, and the value she has as a person and singer. When things get back on track, she is living the best version of herself.
I love the humour in this brilliantly-told story, the heartfelt connection between Connie and Matteo, and the diverse set of characters. I could not stop laughing at the clever words and scenes, enjoying the happy way it ended. This is well-written and witty, and I highly recommend it.
July 4, 2024
What could possibly go wrong singing in Benidorm with The Dollz, a Pussycat Dolls type tribute act who spend their days by the pool and nights on the booze! Err, quite a lot actually!
Connie is still grieving the loss of her mum after 2 years and uses her singing gigs as a way of showing this. This doesn’t go down well with her agent, Nancy, or many of her clients either. After one too many of these, she’s shipped off to Benidorm with The Dollz to stand in for Ted Sheeran. This is so not her thing, she’s a classically trained singer not someone who sings to a bunch of drunks.
I didn’t really like The Dollz to start with, crude and not too nice to Connie, but as the book went on, I really warmed to them with their secret lives and can-do attitude.
Overall a great story, tried a bit hard in places to be funny and came across as cringey but I did enjoy it and read it in just a couple of days. Perfect for summer and definitely a beach read.
Connie is still grieving the loss of her mum after 2 years and uses her singing gigs as a way of showing this. This doesn’t go down well with her agent, Nancy, or many of her clients either. After one too many of these, she’s shipped off to Benidorm with The Dollz to stand in for Ted Sheeran. This is so not her thing, she’s a classically trained singer not someone who sings to a bunch of drunks.
I didn’t really like The Dollz to start with, crude and not too nice to Connie, but as the book went on, I really warmed to them with their secret lives and can-do attitude.
Overall a great story, tried a bit hard in places to be funny and came across as cringey but I did enjoy it and read it in just a couple of days. Perfect for summer and definitely a beach read.
February 12, 2023
I loved reading this, it made me laugh out loud so much! It’s heartwarming, and there’s great chemistry between Connie and Matteo. It’s a sunshiny book, perfect for curling up with on a cold winter day… or any other time of year when you want a story that’ll leave you with a big smile on your face.
January 30, 2024
'Benidorm Actually' is, without a doubt, the most laugh-out-loud book I have ever read in my life.
I made a spectacle of myself while reading it on the train, but my public humiliation is nothing on what goes on between these covers!
It's like the ultimate reality TV escape, but it's in book form so you get to feel intellectual while indulging in the basest of human pleasures.
I'd recommend this book to my Mother-in-Law... but only to see the look of pure shock on her face.
Read this book if you like car crash "reality TV" drama and laughing your arse off.
5 stars!
I made a spectacle of myself while reading it on the train, but my public humiliation is nothing on what goes on between these covers!
It's like the ultimate reality TV escape, but it's in book form so you get to feel intellectual while indulging in the basest of human pleasures.
I'd recommend this book to my Mother-in-Law... but only to see the look of pure shock on her face.
Read this book if you like car crash "reality TV" drama and laughing your arse off.
5 stars!
March 26, 2023
I absolutely loved every second of this charming, heart-warming and hilarious début by Jo Lyons. A self-proclaimed lover of women’s fiction this is just as good as the best of them! I have rarely laughed as much as we followed the raucous, heart-warming antics of The Dollz and the hapless charming would be singer, Connie who can’t quite believe she ended up on a Benidorm stage. It has everything I am looking for in a high grade romance novel: laugh-out-loud antics, gorgeous male protagonists, atypical female friendships, and a charming slightly clueless central character. Can’t wait for the next one. Watch out Marian Keyes!!
January 20, 2023
I absolutely love this book , it’s a real laugh out loud book which transports you back to your wild girly holidays. It’s a feel good rom com whose characters you fall in love with. I’m really looking forward to reading Jo’s next book. Real talent . 😆😆
January 29, 2023
If you enjoy reading light hearted rom coms then you will love this book. Set in Alicante the characters will take you on a funny journey. It was very entertaining and I didn’t want it to end. Can’t wait read another of Jo’s books.
April 19, 2023
A real heart warming read
A heart warming read, lots of laughs out loud moments interspersed with real sadness.
Thank you for the unforgettable journey.
A heart warming read, lots of laughs out loud moments interspersed with real sadness.
Thank you for the unforgettable journey.
May 18, 2023
Brash and hilarious. A great holiday beach read.
August 8, 2024
This is Book 1 of The Benidorm Series!
Benidorm, actually is hilarious, utterly hilarious. I was giggling away all throughout this book.
The shortly follows Connie, who is a singer, but after her classical career becomes a dead end, she accepts a role over in Benidorm to sing and to impress the tough Jezabel Music.
I adore Connie, and I want her to be my friend in real life! Her attitude is fun, and some of the incidents she finds herself in, I can honestly see that happening to me! I was hoping she would meet someone lovely from the moment we met her!
The Dollz are annoying but hilarious! They definitely aren't people I'd get along with, but the fake tan, s1ut drops, and incessant selfies for social media make them a funny group to read about!
The story that Jo weaves around the hilarity is just brilliant. We see Benidorm for what it is, we meet some of the eccentric characters and get to see all the weirs and wonderful happenings
It's like a holiday in my head!
This award-winning novel is a perfect summer read as it is incredibly enjoyable and gave me proper vacation vibes!
Highly recommend, and I can't wait to move onto Book 2!
Benidorm, actually is hilarious, utterly hilarious. I was giggling away all throughout this book.
The shortly follows Connie, who is a singer, but after her classical career becomes a dead end, she accepts a role over in Benidorm to sing and to impress the tough Jezabel Music.
I adore Connie, and I want her to be my friend in real life! Her attitude is fun, and some of the incidents she finds herself in, I can honestly see that happening to me! I was hoping she would meet someone lovely from the moment we met her!
The Dollz are annoying but hilarious! They definitely aren't people I'd get along with, but the fake tan, s1ut drops, and incessant selfies for social media make them a funny group to read about!
The story that Jo weaves around the hilarity is just brilliant. We see Benidorm for what it is, we meet some of the eccentric characters and get to see all the weirs and wonderful happenings
It's like a holiday in my head!
This award-winning novel is a perfect summer read as it is incredibly enjoyable and gave me proper vacation vibes!
Highly recommend, and I can't wait to move onto Book 2!
July 19, 2023
This book is a must for any Benidorm fans!
Connie is a super relatable and funny character and it was enjoyable to see her learn to cope with her grief and step out of her comfort zone throughout the book.
The Dollz however, are very unlikeable at first and add just the right amount of vulgarity that you'd expect from a book set in Benidorm, but - just like Connie, I suppose - they grew on me the more I read.
The whirlwind romance with Matteo was cute but the amount of accidents/disasters/clumsiness she got into around him did grow a bit tiring.
Overall, it was a great summer read☀️😎 4/5
Connie is a super relatable and funny character and it was enjoyable to see her learn to cope with her grief and step out of her comfort zone throughout the book.
The Dollz however, are very unlikeable at first and add just the right amount of vulgarity that you'd expect from a book set in Benidorm, but - just like Connie, I suppose - they grew on me the more I read.
The whirlwind romance with Matteo was cute but the amount of accidents/disasters/clumsiness she got into around him did grow a bit tiring.
Overall, it was a great summer read☀️😎 4/5
August 12, 2024
This book made me laugh so much.
It was a lighthearted romance, with lots of banter.
It was fast-paced, and I flew through it easily.
Connie was a very relatable character. No matter what she did, it was a disaster waiting to happen. She definitely suffers through enough embarrassment.
I love the chaotic vibe this book gave off and also the friendships that were formed, I didn't like the dollz at first, but as reading on, they started to grow on me.
This book is a wonderful summer read, something nice and light full of hilarious scenes, perfect for those warmer nights
It was a lighthearted romance, with lots of banter.
It was fast-paced, and I flew through it easily.
Connie was a very relatable character. No matter what she did, it was a disaster waiting to happen. She definitely suffers through enough embarrassment.
I love the chaotic vibe this book gave off and also the friendships that were formed, I didn't like the dollz at first, but as reading on, they started to grow on me.
This book is a wonderful summer read, something nice and light full of hilarious scenes, perfect for those warmer nights
April 28, 2023
Benidorm Actually by Jo Lyons
This is just the sort of book to read when you are on holiday and don't want to concentrate too hard, or as a good counterpoint when you have finished a heavy book and you want a quick, easy read as a bit of fun afterwards.
Connie is a classically trained singer, who since her mother died, and her boyfriend finished with her, has been in the doldrums. Her agent had given up on her, but gives her one last chance - basically because she is desperate - a gig in Benidorm. This is her last chance to prove to her agent, and the music company who booked her, that she has what it takes to sing, whilst trying to persue her career in classical singing with a choir that keeps turning her down.
When Connie meets the dollz - a group of young girls all with proper day jobs, who get together once a year for a free girls holiday and to have a good time - and to whom the singing is secondary, her world is turned upside down. They have big hair, masses of make up, and very little in the way of clothing and like to be permanently drunk! They decide that Connie needs to be more like them. They make her over with some amusing results.
Quite predictable, but a good, fun romp.
This is just the sort of book to read when you are on holiday and don't want to concentrate too hard, or as a good counterpoint when you have finished a heavy book and you want a quick, easy read as a bit of fun afterwards.
Connie is a classically trained singer, who since her mother died, and her boyfriend finished with her, has been in the doldrums. Her agent had given up on her, but gives her one last chance - basically because she is desperate - a gig in Benidorm. This is her last chance to prove to her agent, and the music company who booked her, that she has what it takes to sing, whilst trying to persue her career in classical singing with a choir that keeps turning her down.
When Connie meets the dollz - a group of young girls all with proper day jobs, who get together once a year for a free girls holiday and to have a good time - and to whom the singing is secondary, her world is turned upside down. They have big hair, masses of make up, and very little in the way of clothing and like to be permanently drunk! They decide that Connie needs to be more like them. They make her over with some amusing results.
Quite predictable, but a good, fun romp.
July 13, 2023
A good typical rom com story, a feel good easy read.
Connie is a professional singer, who, after the death of her Mother, and her father is moving on with his new partner, finds herself at a bit of a dead end. Her manager puts her onto a gig which involves going to Spain to cover for an act who was injured and couldn't work. This is how she finds herself suddenly at the airport and meeting The Dollz, who are supporting her act out in Benidorm. The Dollz are absolute worlds away from Connie, very outgoing, wearing daring outfits and Connie immediately takes a disliking to them and begins to wonder what she has let herself in for.
Right from the plane ride out to Benidorm where Connie finds herself in a sticky situation with the man sat next to her, right up until the last second of this book, it was a great journey. Lots of hilarious moments, moments of despair, little bits of sex in between! Really enjoyed reading this story and finding some characters appear in Benidorm sooner than Connie expected!
This is a great book to take on holiday, very easy to pick up and put down, really enjoyed this. Would love a follow on to find out what happened in LA! There must be another book coming.... she can't leave it like that!
Connie is a professional singer, who, after the death of her Mother, and her father is moving on with his new partner, finds herself at a bit of a dead end. Her manager puts her onto a gig which involves going to Spain to cover for an act who was injured and couldn't work. This is how she finds herself suddenly at the airport and meeting The Dollz, who are supporting her act out in Benidorm. The Dollz are absolute worlds away from Connie, very outgoing, wearing daring outfits and Connie immediately takes a disliking to them and begins to wonder what she has let herself in for.
Right from the plane ride out to Benidorm where Connie finds herself in a sticky situation with the man sat next to her, right up until the last second of this book, it was a great journey. Lots of hilarious moments, moments of despair, little bits of sex in between! Really enjoyed reading this story and finding some characters appear in Benidorm sooner than Connie expected!
This is a great book to take on holiday, very easy to pick up and put down, really enjoyed this. Would love a follow on to find out what happened in LA! There must be another book coming.... she can't leave it like that!
May 6, 2023
Loved this book, thank u to the author to signing it🩷
This would’ve been a higher rating but the first half fet very out of place and I was unsure about how it would redeem itself
IT DID THOUGH!!! LOVEEEED THE SECOND HALF AND IT OVERALL!!
This would’ve been a higher rating but the first half fet very out of place and I was unsure about how it would redeem itself
IT DID THOUGH!!! LOVEEEED THE SECOND HALF AND IT OVERALL!!
December 15, 2023
The book was OK. Easy to read and had a few laugh out loud moments.
July 9, 2024
Benidorm, Actually by Jo Lyons
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Love Books Tours and I am leaving this review voluntarily
Blurb
“Ladies and Gentlemen, we will shortly be arriving into Alicante. Please ensure your big lips and heavy eyebrows are securely fastened, your eyelashes are stowed in the upright position and your leg tattoos are clearly visible for landing.”
Connie Cooper’s classical music career is at a dead-end. She’s singing cheap covers to a sea of bald heads and the nearest she has been to a romantic relationship in years is watching the Bridgerton buttocks scene on a continuous loop.
The last thing she needs is to be on a flight to Benidorm with strict instructions to impress the boss of Jezebel Music. But as she tries to keep up with support band, The Dollz, and the constant flashmob dancing, the going out in less than you’d wear on the beach and their obsession with the promiscuous bearded-Nuns in the villa next door, the boss seems less and less impressed.
The clock is ticking. She’s meant to be finding her voice, not finding his brooding good-looks irresistibly attractive… How can she show him that she has what it takes to succeed?
That’s right. Instead of just being herself, she’ll follow The Dollz’ advice to dress like a low-rent stripper and impress him by pole-dancing on top of a table full of drinks.
My Opinion
Professional singer Connie finds that everyone around her is moving on with their life, can she find a way to reach her dreams? Drafted in as a replacement act in Alicante, this is her chance. Pack your bags - you don't want to miss your flight!
A fast-paced quick read that is really amusing. This was a light-hearted, disaster filled book that will have you laughing out loud. Benidorm, Actually will make for a great holiday or beach read. This was my first book by Jo Lyons but it was so entertaining that I am sure I will be reading more in the future.
Rating 4/5
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Love Books Tours and I am leaving this review voluntarily
Blurb
“Ladies and Gentlemen, we will shortly be arriving into Alicante. Please ensure your big lips and heavy eyebrows are securely fastened, your eyelashes are stowed in the upright position and your leg tattoos are clearly visible for landing.”
Connie Cooper’s classical music career is at a dead-end. She’s singing cheap covers to a sea of bald heads and the nearest she has been to a romantic relationship in years is watching the Bridgerton buttocks scene on a continuous loop.
The last thing she needs is to be on a flight to Benidorm with strict instructions to impress the boss of Jezebel Music. But as she tries to keep up with support band, The Dollz, and the constant flashmob dancing, the going out in less than you’d wear on the beach and their obsession with the promiscuous bearded-Nuns in the villa next door, the boss seems less and less impressed.
The clock is ticking. She’s meant to be finding her voice, not finding his brooding good-looks irresistibly attractive… How can she show him that she has what it takes to succeed?
That’s right. Instead of just being herself, she’ll follow The Dollz’ advice to dress like a low-rent stripper and impress him by pole-dancing on top of a table full of drinks.
My Opinion
Professional singer Connie finds that everyone around her is moving on with their life, can she find a way to reach her dreams? Drafted in as a replacement act in Alicante, this is her chance. Pack your bags - you don't want to miss your flight!
A fast-paced quick read that is really amusing. This was a light-hearted, disaster filled book that will have you laughing out loud. Benidorm, Actually will make for a great holiday or beach read. This was my first book by Jo Lyons but it was so entertaining that I am sure I will be reading more in the future.
Rating 4/5
July 14, 2024
When I saw the page count on this after reading it I couldn't believe it. I flew through it! It was such an easy, hilarious read, that I couldn't put it down! I'm pretty sure you won't be able to either - unless you suffer from secondhand embarrassment and have to stop reading to properly cringe before continuing. If you're like my husband and can't get through an episode of New Girl because it physically hurts you, this hilarious book might be a little too much for you.
If you're able to enjoy a good dose of hilarious schadenfreude - especially when it's at the expense of a fictional character - the absolute work of comedic genius will keep you laughing non-stop. Despite his inability to handle second-hand embarrassment, I literally had to show my husband one passage from the sheer ridiculous shenanigans.
Our main character is just a normal girl trying to save her musical career thrust into proximity of the most ridiculous party girls I've ever read about. And Connie, our FMC, is having the worst luck of her life. But sometimes, life has to go to extremes to wake you up and it seems like this wild, crazy adventure through the nightlife of Benidorm is exactly what the grief doctor ordered.
It took me a little time to warm up to pretty much everyone, and the misunderstandings were many and absurd - but the laughs and absolute nonsense made this book a trainwreck I didn't want to look away from.
Who's It For?
If you enjoy a good romcom and a good dose of secondhand embarassment/awkward humor, you will absolutely adore this. Fans of New Girl will probably enjoy this. Also, it focuses on festival culture, new love, second chances, and other romance tropes.
Content Warning: Death, Grief, Infidelity, Near Child Loss, Very Adult Situations/Language, Job Loss, Poverty, Parenting, Alcohol/Drug Abuse
If you're able to enjoy a good dose of hilarious schadenfreude - especially when it's at the expense of a fictional character - the absolute work of comedic genius will keep you laughing non-stop. Despite his inability to handle second-hand embarrassment, I literally had to show my husband one passage from the sheer ridiculous shenanigans.
Our main character is just a normal girl trying to save her musical career thrust into proximity of the most ridiculous party girls I've ever read about. And Connie, our FMC, is having the worst luck of her life. But sometimes, life has to go to extremes to wake you up and it seems like this wild, crazy adventure through the nightlife of Benidorm is exactly what the grief doctor ordered.
It took me a little time to warm up to pretty much everyone, and the misunderstandings were many and absurd - but the laughs and absolute nonsense made this book a trainwreck I didn't want to look away from.
Who's It For?
If you enjoy a good romcom and a good dose of secondhand embarassment/awkward humor, you will absolutely adore this. Fans of New Girl will probably enjoy this. Also, it focuses on festival culture, new love, second chances, and other romance tropes.
Content Warning: Death, Grief, Infidelity, Near Child Loss, Very Adult Situations/Language, Job Loss, Poverty, Parenting, Alcohol/Drug Abuse
June 3, 2024
So many books claim to be laugh-out-loud funny. Yet they barely raise a smile, never mind a laugh. But this one … I hooted, I honked, I did other geese impressions which — thankfully — no one else witnessed.
Even the blurb (read it for yourselves) is pure genius. Duly hooked, I jumped in with all the enthusiasm of The Dollz stoked up on cheap cocktails. You haven't met The Dollz? You haven't lived!
I won't attempt to describe the plot. OK, it's a bit 'boy meets girl and then the wheels fall off', but I wanted to hug Connie from the start. She's thrown into the deep end, both professionally and romantically, and it's painful to witness. But also hysterically funny.
The sign of a great read, for me, is how many times I note down memorable lines. And there were several I considered noteworthy:
I can feel a panic attack coming on. It's so far out of my comfort zone. Nancy may as well have asked me to charter a private jet and fly it to Taiwan blindfolded with one arm tied behind my back while singing 'I Will Survive' backwards in Welsh.
I catch a slither of material being thrown in my direction. I hold it up. It's a brightly coloured Lycra hairband. I slide it over my forehead, slightly confused as to how this will be in any way transformational.
"That's one of my favourite dresses," she announces.
'Firstly,' says Liberty, turning over on the sunbed. 'Those years you think you've wasted simply means the ones ahead of you have tripled in value. You'll make them count. You'll get everything you can out of every minute.'
The last one is more poignant, but that's the beauty of this banger of a book. It takes you on a journey, like Connie, and when you reach your destination you'll feel all the emotions. Absolutely loved it…
Even the blurb (read it for yourselves) is pure genius. Duly hooked, I jumped in with all the enthusiasm of The Dollz stoked up on cheap cocktails. You haven't met The Dollz? You haven't lived!
I won't attempt to describe the plot. OK, it's a bit 'boy meets girl and then the wheels fall off', but I wanted to hug Connie from the start. She's thrown into the deep end, both professionally and romantically, and it's painful to witness. But also hysterically funny.
The sign of a great read, for me, is how many times I note down memorable lines. And there were several I considered noteworthy:
I can feel a panic attack coming on. It's so far out of my comfort zone. Nancy may as well have asked me to charter a private jet and fly it to Taiwan blindfolded with one arm tied behind my back while singing 'I Will Survive' backwards in Welsh.
I catch a slither of material being thrown in my direction. I hold it up. It's a brightly coloured Lycra hairband. I slide it over my forehead, slightly confused as to how this will be in any way transformational.
"That's one of my favourite dresses," she announces.
'Firstly,' says Liberty, turning over on the sunbed. 'Those years you think you've wasted simply means the ones ahead of you have tripled in value. You'll make them count. You'll get everything you can out of every minute.'
The last one is more poignant, but that's the beauty of this banger of a book. It takes you on a journey, like Connie, and when you reach your destination you'll feel all the emotions. Absolutely loved it…
August 26, 2024
After the death of her mother, Connie Cooper who is a classical singer is finding it hard to carry on with her life. Her father has found a new less of life, wearing a shirt and tie with Jeans, dying his hair the colour of hummus and now heading to the Lake District with Madge, someone he met at the local hiking club. After having a not so good night at a special job that her agent Nanny lined up for her, she now got nothing, that is until she gets a call from Nanny to say she has one last job, take it or leave...Liam drops Connie off at the airport and head her towards the terminal with only her carry-on case in hand. The Dollz are standing waiting at the door, you can't miss them. Hi, I'm Connie was all she could think of....was it going to be this simple, I don't think so, this is only the start of the fun and games. There is so much happening from start to finish, you'll not want to put it down, I read it in one sitting. Can Connie overcome everything she once feared and become a different person with the help of The Dollz and not forgetting Muatteo. I'm 100% Geordie, so I could relate to everything so easily.
March 5, 2023
Jo Lyons' debut novel is a perfect cocktail, a fast-paced hilarious mix of Benidorm bedlam with 'Love Actually' romance and plenty of sharp wit. It's a rollercoaster ride of deliciously wicked humour delivered with a heart of gold.
Classically trained singer Connie Cooper is in a life rut that has reduced her to wailing dirges in the name of entertainment. In a last-bid attempt to salvage her career, she accepts a gig with a support band, The Dollz, who are as raunchy off-stage as they are on it.
The meet-cute (or is that 'meet-horror'?) with gorgeous Mr Window Seat on the flight to Benidorm is great foreshadowing of all the disasters to come, in which Connie tries to fit in, and then rein in, the OTT Dollz.
Jo Lyons' excels at scenes of spectacle and fast-fire dialogue, and she works every emotion brilliantly towards a hugely heartfelt finale. This book is a burst of hot, unapologetic sunshine. It's perfect escapism with a super-satisfying ending. I can't wait to read more by this clever, funny lady.
Classically trained singer Connie Cooper is in a life rut that has reduced her to wailing dirges in the name of entertainment. In a last-bid attempt to salvage her career, she accepts a gig with a support band, The Dollz, who are as raunchy off-stage as they are on it.
The meet-cute (or is that 'meet-horror'?) with gorgeous Mr Window Seat on the flight to Benidorm is great foreshadowing of all the disasters to come, in which Connie tries to fit in, and then rein in, the OTT Dollz.
Jo Lyons' excels at scenes of spectacle and fast-fire dialogue, and she works every emotion brilliantly towards a hugely heartfelt finale. This book is a burst of hot, unapologetic sunshine. It's perfect escapism with a super-satisfying ending. I can't wait to read more by this clever, funny lady.
July 17, 2024
Benidorm Actually by Jo Lyons is book 1 in the Benidorm series and it is funny. I was not expecting to laugh as much as I did. If you love romcoms, girl bands, FMC singer, a hot MMC, love, awkward incidents, and is fun then you will love this book.
I felt bad for Connie she was really going through it. She had no faith in herself and was still dealing with loss and grief. It was great to see her progress into a woman with confidence. I adored the Dollz who along with Liam, and Ged became a support system for Connie and I could not get enough of them. Have I mentioned Matteo or the fact that Connie serenaded him?? Jo did such a great job with this story and more importantly the characters. I’m going to have to go buy me a physical copy of this book and continue with the series. READ THIS BOOK I promise you will be so happy you did. Thank you to Love Book Tours and Jo Lyons for letting me read this ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts and opinions.
I felt bad for Connie she was really going through it. She had no faith in herself and was still dealing with loss and grief. It was great to see her progress into a woman with confidence. I adored the Dollz who along with Liam, and Ged became a support system for Connie and I could not get enough of them. Have I mentioned Matteo or the fact that Connie serenaded him?? Jo did such a great job with this story and more importantly the characters. I’m going to have to go buy me a physical copy of this book and continue with the series. READ THIS BOOK I promise you will be so happy you did. Thank you to Love Book Tours and Jo Lyons for letting me read this ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts and opinions.
July 9, 2024
Perfect book for summer reading! Set in a gorgeous location and just the right mix of fun, drama, heartbreak, and love. Connie is a down on her luck singer that has been dealing with loss but has been giving one last chance to find her voice and perform a good show. From the very moment she embarks on the journey she is put in over the top situations that made my laugh out loud. She finds herself in situations she never imagined that put her on a journey of failure, self discovery, letting go of what she thought her life should be to discover what she truly wants. The other characters add depth and humor and the support that Connie needs. I highly recommend adding this book to your summer reading list!
Thanks to the author and Love Book Tours for providing a copy for my honest review.
Thanks to the author and Love Book Tours for providing a copy for my honest review.
July 26, 2024
This has laugh out loud hilarity from start to finish, mostly courtesy of The Dollz, but also Connie's clumsy, naivety.
The story is ultimately one about reclaiming your life and learning to let yourself go a little, and it spins the tale wonderfully.
Having never been to Benidorm, a picture has certainly been painted in my minds eye, having read this.
Matteo and Nacho were the hunky Spaniards teaching Connie a thing or two, though I wasn't a huge fan of either of them for their attitudes and dishonesty.
I loved Connie's friends Liam and Ged and thought them coming to her aid was so warm and loving.
I believe there's a sequel to this, and I'd definitely love to go on another adventure with this colourful cast of characters.
The story is ultimately one about reclaiming your life and learning to let yourself go a little, and it spins the tale wonderfully.
Having never been to Benidorm, a picture has certainly been painted in my minds eye, having read this.
Matteo and Nacho were the hunky Spaniards teaching Connie a thing or two, though I wasn't a huge fan of either of them for their attitudes and dishonesty.
I loved Connie's friends Liam and Ged and thought them coming to her aid was so warm and loving.
I believe there's a sequel to this, and I'd definitely love to go on another adventure with this colourful cast of characters.
July 30, 2024
I love a good rom com so I was excited to jump into this book. I’ve never been to Benidorm but I have been to Spain and I loved the setting the author chose (and now want to take a trip to Benidorm!)
This book is an easy, funny and rather cheeky read! It would be perfect to read at the pool or the beach. I love Connie and The Dollz paired up together! They end up being the supportive group Connie didn’t even know she needed (and led to some laugh out loud moments!)
Their friendship ended up being one of my favorite parts in this book! Connie was struggling with her career and feelings of grief and I love it when characters find help and support where they least expect it. Connie and Matteo had great chemistry and I loved the scene where she serenades him!
This book is an easy, funny and rather cheeky read! It would be perfect to read at the pool or the beach. I love Connie and The Dollz paired up together! They end up being the supportive group Connie didn’t even know she needed (and led to some laugh out loud moments!)
Their friendship ended up being one of my favorite parts in this book! Connie was struggling with her career and feelings of grief and I love it when characters find help and support where they least expect it. Connie and Matteo had great chemistry and I loved the scene where she serenades him!
August 13, 2024
This was a really fun, laugh-out-loud, perfect for summer, rom-com.
I was instantly drawn to Connie. Her bad luck reminded me of me. And she certainly got herself into some scrapes! Although the romance part of rom-coms is always a cliche, I was really rooting for Connie to get her happy ever after. Although I've never had a flight quite as bad as Connie's and, in my younger days, would have quite happily joined in with The Dollz. The older me found them quite annoying, and yet hilariously endearing as well.
I've not been to Benidorm, but this book was exactly as I imagine it to be. Loud, fast paced and fun.
I'll definitely be reading the rest of this series. Hopefully on a beach in the sun!
I was instantly drawn to Connie. Her bad luck reminded me of me. And she certainly got herself into some scrapes! Although the romance part of rom-coms is always a cliche, I was really rooting for Connie to get her happy ever after. Although I've never had a flight quite as bad as Connie's and, in my younger days, would have quite happily joined in with The Dollz. The older me found them quite annoying, and yet hilariously endearing as well.
I've not been to Benidorm, but this book was exactly as I imagine it to be. Loud, fast paced and fun.
I'll definitely be reading the rest of this series. Hopefully on a beach in the sun!
August 17, 2024
This book was a fabulous, funny ride! I couldn’t stop laughing; Connie and her accidents with Mateo, bless her, it’s not what she needs after what she’s been through. The hilarious antics of Connie‘s opening act, the Dollz, had me in hysterics. I couldn’t help but feel sorry for Connie at times. Her lack of self belief, inability to say no to the Dollz and falling for Matteo, who is not what he seems, all set up for a grand fall. However, with the help of her friends, New and old, she picks herself up and grows into the best version of herself. The book is very well written, full of humour and has some fantastic characters. This is the second book I’ve read by this author and I’ve loved them both.
August 31, 2024
Jo Lyons does it again and knocks the slow burn romance out of the park. We follow Connie as she has been given the chance of a lifetime to sing in Benidorm for a week to cover for another act which is not able to perform. She arrives and finds out that she has been cast alongside a all girl tribute act who are there to perform but to also have a blast partying every night. Connie then meets her ideal man and through several bouts of miscommunication will they or wont they. This is a great cast of characters which a lot of them living double life's (which gets sprinkled through the story). Being a contemporary setting it was up about elevating this area and putting her twist on it. I can not wait to read the other 2 books.
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