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2.97 AVERAGE
2.97 AVERAGE
Just didn't really like the meet-cute, seemed to quick/unrealistic. Also had trouble liking who was going to be the male love interest from the start, and couldn't see how he would redeem himself. Just wasn't working!
funny
lighthearted
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Rosie met Mitch in a London pub. He had a spare room, and she needed a place to live, urgently. They were going to be working together within the same department at the university. Within a few minutes of meeting, they became flatmates...!
This is a delightful friends to lovers romance spanning many years. The story begins when the protagonists' first meet in London’s worse pub. After that, the narrative jumps between then and now, as we learn the dynamics of their unique friendship.
As romances go, this is a very slow burn. The clues are constantly there but both Rosie and Mitch ignore them, presuming the other isn’t interested. Mitch is a serial dater, with each relationship fizzling out within a month or to, whilst Rosie’s focus is her job and mourning the long ended relationship she had before meeting Mitch. These are two people who choose to spend all their free time together, but somehow don’t see what everyone sees them as... a couple. That is until Mitch has a proposition for them.
I love Rosie has a STEM career and the novel is set in London. Both Rosie and Mitch are relatable and likeable characters and I enjoyed how easy their friendship is. At times I wanted to knock their heads together as they blindly ignored the signals of attraction, they both give off.
My only criticism is feeling a bit bored during a section of the book that didn’t interest me. I stayed one hundred percent invested in Rosie and Mitch, when they were together, but not so much when the focus was solely on Rosie.
Overall, I enjoyed the The Fallback. The narrative is fun, light and entertaining but not consistently enough to give it a higher rating.
*Arc generously received courtesy of One More Chapter via NetGalley*
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Rosie and Mitch have been best friends ever since they became roommates when Rosie came to London to do her PHD. But one day Mitch sets each other the challenge of finding ‘the one’ before the Christmas party and if they don’t they will be each other’s fallback and raise a child together.
I flew through this book but have mixed opinions. I did like the characters and the interaction of the best friends together. I also liked the London setting as often they don’t feel like you are actually in London. But I could really feel like I was. The story is predictable and has some cute moments. I liked that Rosie was a STEM girlie and loved that part, but wish there had been more on this.
However, I felt stressed reading this book because the miscommunication! That and the beginning of the story was quite clunky, when we met new characters we had really random background information, and it took it me out of the story. Some themes could have been explored more.
Overall I enjoyed the book, but it felt like it needed a bit more tidying up.
Rosie and Mitch have been best friends ever since they became roommates when Rosie came to London to do her PHD. But one day Mitch sets each other the challenge of finding ‘the one’ before the Christmas party and if they don’t they will be each other’s fallback and raise a child together.
I flew through this book but have mixed opinions. I did like the characters and the interaction of the best friends together. I also liked the London setting as often they don’t feel like you are actually in London. But I could really feel like I was. The story is predictable and has some cute moments. I liked that Rosie was a STEM girlie and loved that part, but wish there had been more on this.
However, I felt stressed reading this book because the miscommunication! That and the beginning of the story was quite clunky, when we met new characters we had really random background information, and it took it me out of the story. Some themes could have been explored more.
Overall I enjoyed the book, but it felt like it needed a bit more tidying up.
Content Warnings
Minor: Miscarriage
slow-paced
Thank you NetGalley and Harper Collins UK for this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
I loved the idea of this story. Girl moves to a different country, has a sweet little meet cute with a boy, falls in love with him on accident, boy propositions girl in an unconventional fallback plan and then they ride off into the sunset living happily ever after. There was a lot of filler in this book and I liked the idea that Rosie has thoughts and depth but I felt like the writing was missing… something. I did enjoy The Fallback but it took me longer than I expected to finish.
I loved the idea of this story. Girl moves to a different country, has a sweet little meet cute with a boy, falls in love with him on accident, boy propositions girl in an unconventional fallback plan and then they ride off into the sunset living happily ever after. There was a lot of filler in this book and I liked the idea that Rosie has thoughts and depth but I felt like the writing was missing… something. I did enjoy The Fallback but it took me longer than I expected to finish.
slow-paced
emotional
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
This book started really well for me. I love a good friends to lovers storyline and the idea of being each other's 'fallback' (while secretly harbouring intense feelings for each other) was a win win for me.
I loved reading about Mitch and Rosie's friendship - you could tell these two knew each other so well, their banter was funny and there was some solid love going on between the two of them.
Rosie is a great female lead and I enjoyed the STEM aspect of the storyline - can never get enough of books with females who are successful in the STEM field in my view.
However, the miscommunication in this book made me feel so frustrated and as the book progressed, it really got in the way of my enjoyment. I couldn't get my head around how these two characters who appeared to know each other so well, who had seen other at their best and worst, couldn't just be honest with each other. It lead to some really bizarre behaviour and decision making which seemed completely out of character with everything we were being told about the characters and it just got on my nerves after a while. I think maybe it dragged on too long.
I think this is a me thing. It's a trope I really don't love and find frustrating to read, particularly in such a slow burn romance. I know lots of other readers who would really enjoy this romance and would lap it up, it just wasn't the best for me.
Overall it's a solid storyline, it's well written, good characters, I loved the ending, I just felt the miscommunication was dragged out for too long in the middle - it made me want to throw my book across the room in frustration!
If slow burn, suspenseful romance is your thing - this could well be the book for you, pick it up!
I loved reading about Mitch and Rosie's friendship - you could tell these two knew each other so well, their banter was funny and there was some solid love going on between the two of them.
Rosie is a great female lead and I enjoyed the STEM aspect of the storyline - can never get enough of books with females who are successful in the STEM field in my view.
However, the miscommunication in this book made me feel so frustrated and as the book progressed, it really got in the way of my enjoyment. I couldn't get my head around how these two characters who appeared to know each other so well, who had seen other at their best and worst, couldn't just be honest with each other. It lead to some really bizarre behaviour and decision making which seemed completely out of character with everything we were being told about the characters and it just got on my nerves after a while. I think maybe it dragged on too long.
I think this is a me thing. It's a trope I really don't love and find frustrating to read, particularly in such a slow burn romance. I know lots of other readers who would really enjoy this romance and would lap it up, it just wasn't the best for me.
Overall it's a solid storyline, it's well written, good characters, I loved the ending, I just felt the miscommunication was dragged out for too long in the middle - it made me want to throw my book across the room in frustration!
If slow burn, suspenseful romance is your thing - this could well be the book for you, pick it up!
hopeful
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
"The Fallback" by Eleanor Goymer presents an engaging narrative centred around the complexities of friendship, love, and self-discovery. While the initial pacing may require some patience from readers, Goymer's skillful writing ultimately captivates, making it a worthwhile read. The portrayal of Rosie as a female scientist is commendable, echoing the empowerment of women in STEM fields akin to Ali Hazelwood's work.
The dynamic between Rosie and Mitch forms the heart of the story, with Rosie's unrequited love for her best friend adding depth to their relationship. The incorporation of flashbacks enriches the narrative, offering insights into their history and motivations.
The concept of a "fallback" arrangement proposed by Mitch injects an intriguing twist, setting the stage for both internal conflict and external drama. Rosie's contemplation of motherhood and eventual agreement to Mitch's unconventional proposition add layers to her character, allowing readers to empathise with her uncertainty and desires.
The central theme of miscommunication, while typically irksome, is deftly handled, and kept me invested in the unfolding drama. However, Rosie's self-absorption during her turmoil detracts from her likability, leading to missed opportunities for emotional connection with other characters.
The resolution, though satisfying in its reconciliation between Rosie and Mitch, feels somewhat rushed, and left me craving more closure and insight into their future together. An epilogue could have provided a glimpse into their evolving relationship, enhancing the overall satisfaction of the conclusion.
In summary, "The Fallback" offers a compelling narrative despite its flaws, with Goymer's adept storytelling and character development making it a compelling read. While the reliance on miscommunication may test patience, the endearing portrayal of Rosie and Mitch's bond keeps readers rooting for their eventual happiness. A solid 3.5-star rating acknowledges its strengths while acknowledging room for improvement in pacing and resolution.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for allowing me to read this in exchange for my honest opinion.
The dynamic between Rosie and Mitch forms the heart of the story, with Rosie's unrequited love for her best friend adding depth to their relationship. The incorporation of flashbacks enriches the narrative, offering insights into their history and motivations.
The concept of a "fallback" arrangement proposed by Mitch injects an intriguing twist, setting the stage for both internal conflict and external drama. Rosie's contemplation of motherhood and eventual agreement to Mitch's unconventional proposition add layers to her character, allowing readers to empathise with her uncertainty and desires.
The central theme of miscommunication, while typically irksome, is deftly handled, and kept me invested in the unfolding drama. However, Rosie's self-absorption during her turmoil detracts from her likability, leading to missed opportunities for emotional connection with other characters.
The resolution, though satisfying in its reconciliation between Rosie and Mitch, feels somewhat rushed, and left me craving more closure and insight into their future together. An epilogue could have provided a glimpse into their evolving relationship, enhancing the overall satisfaction of the conclusion.
In summary, "The Fallback" offers a compelling narrative despite its flaws, with Goymer's adept storytelling and character development making it a compelling read. While the reliance on miscommunication may test patience, the endearing portrayal of Rosie and Mitch's bond keeps readers rooting for their eventual happiness. A solid 3.5-star rating acknowledges its strengths while acknowledging room for improvement in pacing and resolution.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for allowing me to read this in exchange for my honest opinion.
lighthearted
medium-paced
Strong character development:
No
lighthearted
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
emotional
lighthearted
reflective
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
‘The Fallback’ by Eleanor Goymer is an interesting romance novel in which academic Rosie, who works in a clinical trials lab at a London university and is in her mid-thirties, agrees with her best friend Mitch that they will be each other’s “fallback” if neither of them meet “The One”. Complications and emotions ensue as Rosie reflects on her ambitions, resurrects her dating app profiles and tries not to let her preoccupation with figuring out her feelings impact her work.
I really enjoyed the fact that Rosie worked in STEM and the realism of the different paths Mitch and Rosie took after their PhDs (industry - journalism - for him and academia for her). Rosie’s colleague Nadia and her family, including her sister-in-law Jasmine, were excellent characters full of compassion, flaws and enthusiasm who provided a wonderful support network for Rosie. I also think the exploration of the disappointments of modern dating and the introspection about the right time to settle down and have children made the novel meaningful and thought-provoking.
I questioned some of Rosie’s decisions and wanted to scream at her near the end of the book when she behaved so passively in a situation that should have sparked quick action! I also wish that we’d heard Mitch’s point of view as without his side of the story, I didn’t warm to him at all and thought he was pretty inconsiderate at times… making it difficult to root for the central couple!
This felt like a three star read for me overall - relatable and at times wonderfully romantic with great themes of the importance of a support network, but without the loveable lead characters that would have elevated the novel and given me butterflies.
I received an advance Digital Review Copy of this book from the publisher Harper Collins, One More Chapter via NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
I really enjoyed the fact that Rosie worked in STEM and the realism of the different paths Mitch and Rosie took after their PhDs (industry - journalism - for him and academia for her). Rosie’s colleague Nadia and her family, including her sister-in-law Jasmine, were excellent characters full of compassion, flaws and enthusiasm who provided a wonderful support network for Rosie. I also think the exploration of the disappointments of modern dating and the introspection about the right time to settle down and have children made the novel meaningful and thought-provoking.
I questioned some of Rosie’s decisions and wanted to scream at her near the end of the book when she behaved so passively in a situation that should have sparked quick action! I also wish that we’d heard Mitch’s point of view as without his side of the story, I didn’t warm to him at all and thought he was pretty inconsiderate at times… making it difficult to root for the central couple!
This felt like a three star read for me overall - relatable and at times wonderfully romantic with great themes of the importance of a support network, but without the loveable lead characters that would have elevated the novel and given me butterflies.
I received an advance Digital Review Copy of this book from the publisher Harper Collins, One More Chapter via NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.