PLOT: 3.5/5 ROMANCE: 2.5/5 CHARACTERS: 3.5/5 WRITING STYLE: 3/5 ENTERTAINMENT: 3/5
There’s something about seaside reads that instantly pulls you in. Add to it an enemies-to-lovers trope, an unique location (learn Bali) and a visually interesting cowl – and you’ve got a potent combine that’s onerous to withstand. And so it was, that when Georgie Tilney’s debut romcom Seaside Rivals got here my approach, it was onerous to withstand.
The plot of Seaside Rivals (no, spoilers right here!)
A e book store in paradise… oops I imply Bali.
Two individuals who can not stand one another
And the entire of summer time to spend collectively
Think about Clare, who as soon as dreamt of getting life all neatly sorted out by now, however guess what? She’s in a full-on life rollercoaster! Residing together with her mother, caught in a job that seems like a sleep button, and nil clue about what’s subsequent.
However one advantageous day, she stumbles upon a viral gig supply, a three-month gig as a bookseller on a Bali seaside! Who wouldn’t leap at this opportunity? Clare definitely did. However, shock! The plot twist unfolds in Bali – there’s extra to this bookshop gig than meets the attention.
She’s not flying solo on this literary paradise. Nope! She’s sharing her sanctuary – and her flat – with none aside from a dashingly infuriating American fellow, Jack.
Now, let me inform you, Jack and Clare? They’re like day and evening, cats and canine, peanut butter and pickles. They conflict, oh boy, do they conflict! They’re like magnets with the identical polarity, pushing one another’s buttons in each approach doable. It’s a whirlwind of bickering, arguing, and making one another’s eyes roll so onerous they might energy a wind turbine.
However right here’s the juicy half: beneath all of the bickering, the sparks are flying! Within the midst of all of the chaos and comedic clashes, it’s solely a matter of time earlier than their skilled relationship takes a dive into the deep finish of the private pool.
My evaluate
I’ve by no means been one to be overly essential, and I’ve all the time had a gentle spot for a heartwarming romantic comedy. Nonetheless, this specific e book appears to fall in need of the lofty expectations set by its attractive blurb. Regardless of the promising premise, midway by way of the story, the enchantment I anticipated remains to be elusive.
Now, I’m fairly a fan of the enemies-to-lovers trope, however “Seaside Rivals” fails to ship the compelling pressure that makes this trope so participating. Clare and Jack are undoubtedly likable characters, but the spark, chemistry, and keenness between them stay disappointingly elusive.
The story lacks the witty banter, the palpable pressure, and the intimate moments that elevate a romance narrative. I’m not essentially referring to steamy encounters; a real emotional connection can greater than suffice. Regrettably, this isn’t the type of slow-burn romance I had hoped for.
Whereas the story initially hints at a seaside and a rivalry, these components aren’t substantial sufficient to justify the title “Seaside Rivals.” Individually, Clare and Jack possess well-crafted personalities with depth and sincerity, however collectively, their connection feels compelled.
I did discover the supporting characters fairly endearing. Adaire and Celestina carry a pleasant allure to the story, and Adam, the bookshop proprietor, rapidly earns your affection. The bookshop itself is a standout, capturing your consideration with its small, idyllic, and quaint ambiance. It’s the form of place that makes you dream of packing your luggage and embarking on a quest to discover a comparable gem.
Curiously, the bookshop’s evolution as a personality in its personal proper proves extra intriguing than the event of our protagonists. I relished the elements the place the characters labored to breathe new life into the bookstore, tapping into their distinctive abilities and creativity to rekindle its former glory. The e book additionally dives into discussions about numerous books, genres, and all issues literary, which delighted the bookworm in me.
Nonetheless, I can’t assist however really feel that Bali, as a setting, didn’t obtain the eye it deserved. There have been ample alternatives to infuse the tradition and vibrancy of Bali into the narrative, however these components had been solely superficially explored.
Even the conclusion leaves a lot to be desired, solely marginally redeeming an in any other case lackluster narrative.
For these in search of a good, one-time learn, Seaside Rivals ought to discover its approach onto your studying record. This e book presents a lighthearted journey that encapsulates the allure of bookshops, and the dynamics of compelled proximity, all set towards the backdrop of unique places.
Purchase your copy of Seaside Rivals.
