... a charming love story that’s likely to warm your heart ... The central conceit of The Flatshare may seem unlikely to some readers, but debut novelist Beth O’Leary has created a sweet, never saccharine tale ... Peppered with amusing quips and multidimensional characters, this quick, engaging read is labeled a romantic comedy, but it also grapples with some of life’s more difficult moments. Even readers skeptical of the novel’s fanciful premise may find themselves surprised by the thoughtful way O’Leary faces not only new love but also the traces of individual pasts.
When the flatmates do finally meet, it’s in a sexy, hilarious and deeply embarrassing way. Such fun ... springs from a classic rom-com setup...But her book, while definitely romantic and comedic, has an underlying seriousness that gives the story heft. Her themes of ambition, domestic violence, thwarted justice, childhood cancer and closeted homosexuality turn this engaging summer read into a thought-provoking work of fiction ... But fun. Definitely fun.
... a sweet, quirky novel about two complete opposites falling for one another under the cutest of circumstances. [O'Leary's] storytelling includes fiery hot love scenes and then dives deep into the effects of emotional abuse. Accompanied by a cast of well-developed side characters—like a brother in prison and an oversharing best friend—Tiffy and Leon’s (sexual) tension-filled ride to their eventual meeting is perfect for fans of Helen Hoang’s The Kiss Quotient (2018) and Sally Thorne’s The Hating Game (2016).
... a 21st-century rom-com that will please hopeless romantics ... the traditional romance revival (with a twist) that no one asked for but everyone needs to devour immediately ... The plot may be too saccharine for some readers. All the loose ends are tied up in a big, splashy romantic bow, though O’Leary leaves plenty of clues along the way to let you know what was coming ... Those who can't get enough saccharine will not be disappointed. Sexual tension! Multiple marriage proposals! A steamy castle make-out session! O'Leary also carefully writes about consent and the ramifications of emotional abuse, as well as the importance of therapy ... O’Leary has clearly been influenced by relevant, romantic pop culture. It’s that much more impressive she manages to build on stories that have come before hers.
Tiffy and Leon could easily become clichéd characters, but debut author O’Leary perfectly captures their unique voices. The story is a delight from start to finish, full of eccentric side characters and sexual tension. Although the romantic comedy elements are always at the forefront, there are plenty of moving moments ... With likable main characters, spot-on dialogue, a fun premise, and plenty of drama, there's a lot to like in this sweet story ... A warm, enchanting love story perfect for fans of classic rom-coms.
