Favs by Phoebe Macleod
I wasn’t a fan of rom-coms for the longest time, but lately, I find myself engrossed in them. While I’ve always loved rom-com movies, I’m so happy to discover that now, I enjoy rom-com books just as much.
It all started with Phoebe Macleod’s The Fixer-Upper, which made me fall in love with the genre. Rom-coms transport me to a magical world where love and laughter take center stage, transforming even the smallest moments of life into something beautiful.
So, I thought to give her some credit I shall list out 4 of her books that I absolutely devoured. Here’s to hoping I keep reading whatever she comes up with, as I adore her writing style so much!
1. The Fixer-upper
The story revolves around Alex, an estate agent who excels at creating happy-ever-afters for her clients but struggles to achieve the same in her life. Alex's life takes an unexpected turn when her long-term boyfriend, Thomas, decides to spend his savings on an artist retreat in San Francisco rather than investing in their future. Left behind and feeling abandoned, Alex re-evaluates her life and relationship.
Enter Callum, her new neighbor, whose nerdy personality contrasts sharply with Alex's bubbly demeanor. Despite their differences, a friendship blossoms, leading Alex to question if the answer to her problems might be closer to home than she thought.
What I loved the most is, It’s so entertaining but at the same time thought-provoking. Her writing style is super engaging and humorous, super binge-able. A must-read!
2. Love at first site
Honestly, at first I thought I wouldn’t like this one as much as I did the previous one but I was wrong. It is a lovely rom-com about self-discovery, love, and resilience.
The story revolves around Ella, a woman who seemingly has it all. A great job, a luxurious penthouse apartment, and a perfect boyfriend, Lee. However, her seemingly perfect life is shattered when Lee quits his job, eventually leading to a series of events that force Ella to reevaluate her life and choices.
Eventually, Ella and Lee end their relationship and she finds a new job offer but it comes with its own challenges. The position is miles away and in an industry Ella knows nothing about, construction. Nevertheless she takes up the job and moves to a different town and there she * drum roll * meets Noah!!!! A foreman who becomes not only her guide but also a potential love interest.
It’s super witty, super cute and you’ll immediately fall in love with Noah, Istg. <3
3. Never getting back together
Jess Thomas, the protagonist, has built a thriving catering business, happy with her single life after a heartbreaking breakup with Jamie Ferguson a decade ago. The story starts with Jess preparing to cater a wedding, only to find out that Jamie is the best man. Jamie doesn’t seem to remember her, the girl whose heart he shattered via text.
As fate would have it, Jess's car breaks down on a remote country lane, and the only person around to help is Jamie. This chance encounter forces Jess to confront her past and Jamie to prove that he's changed.
This one will take you through the pain of heartbreaks, personal growth, the possibility of change and the idea of second chances in love. The chemistry between Jess and Jamie is palpable, and their interactions are filled with a mix of tension, humour, and tender moments.
4. Fred and breakfast
This one is my favourite amongst all. It’s about loss, love, and new beginnings. Starting off with Daisy, she lost her parents a couple of years ago in a car accident. As of now, she’s living her life with her sister and her grandparents. Daisy's world is upended when she inherits a rundown café with her sister. Initially she’s hesitant to take on the challenge of running the café, but her perspective shifts when she meets Matt, a passionate chef determined to revive the café's fortunes.
Now, what I really really would like to talk about is - Number one, where are guys like Matt in real life????? Number two, Phoebe did a really good job with portraying Daisy’s character. Daisy's grief and reluctance to embrace change, painting the actual picture of someone grappling with past trauma. Number three, the chemistry between Daisy and Matt is so pure, omg. It has moments of humor, tenderness, and the occasional hiccup that makes their connection feel all the more authentic. Number four, the secondary characters of this book are so well-written, and they add depth and charm to the story.
By the end of this book, you'll find yourself smiling through a puddle of tears.
Phoebe Macleod’s books are perfect for pulling you out of a reading slump, binge-reading, indulging in something absolutely adorable, or even for having a good cry-sesh. They're ideal for drowning yourself in sweetness and happiness.
Happy Reading!
