This book had under developed characters, under developed romance and a plot that felt all over the place. I’m all for friends to lovers but not when the FMC is totally indifferent and suddenly in love? I did not connect with any part of this book.

I received an advance review copy for free from the publisher via Netgalley and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Enjoyable book but lacked depth and characterisation.
Having read other books by this author, I liked the premise of this book - I too have harboured thoughts of leaving corporate life behind (if it wasn’t for the money!) but I felt this book was lacking… insufficiently descriptive and characters that didn’t seem multi dimensional.

Overall it was an enjoyable read but could have been so much more with a bit of depth and description!

This book wasn’t exactly my cup of tea, but I enjoyed the banter between the FMC and the love interest. The dynamics between them made me laugh out loud in certain parts.

I found myself oh so eager to read this book - the tropes, the premise all had me so excited and giddy to read. What resulted was not the book for me - it started off fine, the exhilarating thrill of watching Thea become the youngest partner at her firm, and then the sadness I felt for her at having no one to celebrate with? I truly felt that. The writing seemed really inconsistent from that point forward; the pacing was just really off for me - it would go from eating it up as it was high paced, to being so slow I considered a DNF and that pattern just continued to. repeat itself. The romance itself was also entirely lackluster, the chemistry never once appeared, the sex was dull, heck Alisdair was so dull himself - did he even have a personality? It was just overall such a dissapointment which saddens me as I really wanted to enjoy this one!

Thanks to NetGalley for the arc in exchange for my honest review.

Not my favourite Phoebe MacLeod book, for me personally the story took a while to actually get going. Thea as a character is really well written, from her time as a corporate lawyer to her leaving her job and 'finding herself'
I have to admit my favourite part was 'car war' with the neighbour, I found that really quite funny as part of the book.

Thea Rogers is a high-power attorney with a plan. She is in the office before the sun is up and there until dark, and that is the way she likes it because she is climbing the ladder and making it! This is working for her, and her sometimes date Alastair, until Thea has a crisis. Is this everything she really wants? What is the purpose?

This resonated with me because I have asked myself these questions. How important is this? At what cost? While some of the second half of the book was a little far-fetched, and I learned a lot about grinding grain, I found this to be a delightful read about taking charge and changing your life midstream.

Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advance copy. All opinions are my own.

I love her books and they just keep getting better. A brilliantly written romantic comedy with a fabulous cast of characters who were believable and engaging. I couldn’t put it down and loved the storyline, aspirational but attainable and packed with fun, love and all the feels. Highly recommend

The Do-Over by Phoebe MacLeod is a quirky, light read with a distinctly British flavour, featuring fun cultural nods like Homes Under the Hammer (IYKYK). Set primarily in London and the South East, the story follows Thea as she embarks on a dramatic career change and navigates some unconventional life choices. While the pacing felt uneven and Thea’s decisions could be frustrating, the book offers a few well-drawn side characters who bring warmth and charm. It’s a breezy read for fans of feel-good fiction with a touch of romance, but I personally wouldn't rush to pick up another book by this author.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the ARC :)

The Do-Over is Phoebe Macleod‘s newest stand-alone cozy romantic comedy. It’s a midlife-crisis story featuring a successful 30-something attorney set in London. Like other stories by this author, it’s more character-driven than plot-driven and the romance is minimal.
Thea Rogers has dedicated her adult life to her career in Acquisitions and Mergers law at a top firm in London. Shortly after becoming the youngest female to make partner at her firm, a senior partner dies unexpectedly, and Thea attends his funeral. She realizes that the attendees are only there out of duty, including his immediate family. Thea is shocked to recognize her neighbors at the funeral and introduces herself.
While Thea is close to her mother and older sister, she has abandonment issues from her father’s desertion when she was young. She is a very driven workaholic who is financially savvy and forgoes creature comforts in order to save money. She hasn’t had time for personal relationships, except for Alasdair, a longtime colleague and friend-with-benefits. Thea begins questioning her life choices and wonders if anyone would notice or care if she disappeared tomorrow.
Thea abruptly quits her job and partners with her single-mother neighbor in a house flipping venture. Eventually Thea ends up managing a farm with a water mill in Kent. A local man is interested in Thea, so there’s a romantic triangle with Alasdair. The reader is kept in suspense until the end regarding which man Thea will choose, or none at all.
Thea’s character development is the primary focus of the story, not the romance. Since the story is told from only Thea’s point of view, the reader doesn’t get to know Alasdair very well. The side characters, especially Rebecca and young Rocco, add humor to the story and help the plot move along. While this author is British and the story is set in London and Kent, Americans can easily understand it. I recommend The Do-Over for readers who enjoy British rom-coms.
I received an Advance Review Copy (ARC) from NetGalley and Boldwood Books for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

A very enjoyable read with great character development, despite a predictable storyline. Was a slower read as it didn’t have me completely hooked but I would still recommend to anyone looking for an easy romance read

Phoebe MacLeod’s *The Do-Over* is a refreshing breeze of a novel—a clever, heartfelt story of reinvention, second chances, and finding your true self. Packed with humor, relatable characters, and just the right amount of romantic tension, it’s a perfect escape for anyone who loves contemporary fiction with a delightful mix of sass and sincerity.

The story centers around Nadia, a woman who finds herself at a crossroads after a series of life-altering events. Leaving behind her high-pressure London life, she moves to a small seaside town, hoping for a do-over—a chance to figure out who she really is and what she truly wants. But as her past and present collide in unexpected ways, Nadia discovers that starting over isn’t as simple as it sounds, especially when a certain someone keeps crossing her path.

MacLeod has a gift for creating characters who feel real and relatable, and Nadia is no exception. Her journey of self-discovery is laced with moments of vulnerability and triumph, making her someone you can’t help but root for. The supporting cast—quirky new neighbors, meddling family members, and, of course, a charmingly flawed love interest—adds depth and humor to the story, creating a rich world that feels as cozy as it is compelling.

What makes *The Do-Over* so engaging is its balance of lighthearted fun and deeper emotional moments. MacLeod deftly explores themes of identity, resilience, and the courage it takes to embrace change. Nadia’s journey reminds us that it’s never too late to rewrite your story, and sometimes the unexpected detours lead to the most rewarding destinations. The romantic subplot is equally satisfying, offering a slow-burn connection that feels authentic and grounded in real-life struggles and joys.

The seaside setting comes alive through vivid descriptions, making you feel as though you’re right there with Nadia, soaking in the fresh air and navigating the ups and downs of her new life. The atmosphere enhances the charm of the story, creating a perfect backdrop for Nadia’s fresh start and the connections she builds along the way.

*The Do-Over* is a charming, feel-good novel that will resonate with anyone who’s ever dreamed of starting fresh—or simply loves a story about self-discovery and romance done right. With its witty dialogue, engaging characters, and heartfelt message, it’s a five-star read that’s as uplifting as it is entertaining. Perfect for cozy evenings, lazy weekends, or any moment when you need a reminder that life’s do-overs can lead to the most unexpected joys.

The Do Over made a lovely change to my usual crime thriller reads and I really enjoyed it . This book isn’t just a romance story it’s so much more than that . It’s about doing something for yourself and making a decision that could massively change your life journey . I found the main character Thea to be a lovely character who wanted to make the best of her life.
While this is a book about life and life changes it also had some laugh out loud moments and these really did make me smile

📚 PUBLICATION WEEK BOOK REVIEW 📚

The Do-Over By Phoebe MacLeod
Publication Date: November 28, 2024
Publisher: Boldwood Books

📚MY RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨
(Rounded Up to 5⭐)

📚MY REVIEW:

Oh Phoebe MacLeod, you've done it again! If you're a fan of rom-coms - but are looking for something with a little more storyline than just a happily-ever-after love affair - MacLeod needs to be on your list of must-read authors.

I absolutely loved the female main character, Thea, both who she was in the first part of the book and who she became as the story continued. Thea is the youngest female attorney in London's Martin Landsdowne law firm to ever be named partner. It's a perfect fit for her too: she's ambitious, doesn't know what to do with herself when she's not working, and loves being married to the job. Until one day when she realizes maybe she doesn't. Thea decides to completely up-end her life, without a plan for what's next, and the majority of the book is about Thea's journey to redefine herself and find what truly makes her happy. This rom-com includes a friends-to-lovers trope that is so loveable, along with a cast of supporting characters who endear their way into your heart, just as Thea does. This book has nearly zero spice, so if you're looking for a spicy rom-com -- this isn't it. What it lacks in spice, however, it makes up for in substance and heart.

I love the way MacLeod's books always offer more than just the typical predictable rom-com plot! She gives her readers substance, character development, and a sense of female empowerment -- with a side of happily-ever-after in a "maybe women really CAN have it all" kind-of story.

MacLeod's books always bring a feel-good element to their stories and can easily be read in one quick sitting, so they're the perfect read for a cozy afternoon or evening with a cuppa and a warm blanket. If you haven't yet discovered MacLeod and you're a fan of rom-coms, I highly encourage you to pick up one of her books next time you want a feel-good story to lift your spirits.
Thank you to NetGalley, Boldwood Books, and the author for this advanced reader's e-copy in exchange for my honest review.

#TheDoOver #PhoebeMacLeod #boldwoodbookclub #boldwoodbookVIP #NetGalley #NetGalleyReviews #ARC #bookreviews #bookrecs #romcoms #bookrecommendations #romcomreads #booklover #bookcommunity

The Do-Over by Phoebe MacLeod

I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Blurb

Thea Rogers has dedicated her life to her career in corporate law. Apart from her colleague and long-time friend-with-benefits Alasdair, she’s forgone friendships and relationships, and now she’s on track to become her firm’s youngest ever female partner. She should be ecstatic. But when a senior partner dies unexpectedly, Thea realises the people at his funeral are only there out of duty. Suddenly, Thea can’t shake the question: if she disappeared tomorrow, would anyone care?

As the life choices she's made suddenly make less and less sense, Thea is forced to make a decision. Stick with the original plan or take a completely different path.

Thea has a chance to do it right this time and fill her world with the things that matter. But can people really change? And once life starts looking up, why does it feel like there’s something… or someone she can’t seem to replace?

My Opinion

The Do-Over was an easy read as we follow Thea on her journey of self-discovery. Thea has put her career first but is that the best thing for her? I have read quite a few books by Phoebe MacLeod and whilst this didn’t quite meet the standard I have come to expect, for me this was still an enjoyable read.

Rating 4/5

Thank you Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book. These opinions are completely my own.

Thea's realization about life brings upon changes in the life that truly how much inner and emotional strength she truly had. The book is a feel good read that is more just fiction, then romance. Anyone who picks the in book up expecting a romance, may (but shouldn't) feel let down upon finding out, that for the most part, the romance is a minor star in this relaxing tale.

Thea is the youngest junior partner at the law firm where she works. She has no work/life balance and is happy with how she's living her life. One of the partners dies and while at his funeral, Thea realizes that no one at his funeral is there because they wanted to be. She senses her own life would end the same way...no friends at her funeral. Thea makes a huge career decision and the story is about what comes next.

Thea Rogers is very good at her job. She’s a lawyer at Morton-Lansdowne, a corporate law office in the middle of London. She becomes the youngest-ever woman to make partner at the firm, but she lives a lonely existence. She has built her life so completely around her law career that there is practically nothing to enjoy outside of it. Then, an unexpected death at the company leads Thea to realize that her aspirations aren’t leading to a future that will make her happier. In a matter of weeks, Thea sets out with an unexpected friend/business partner to start a completely new life - one where she has to make her own plan and find her own happiness.

Thea is an excellent protagonist in this story. She is likeable and capable. When she achieves everything she’s ever wanted, she’s up to the increased demands from the firm. As she attends an obligatory funeral surrounded by people indifferent (at best) to the deceased, it becomes the wake-up call she needs to reflect on her own life. The author drops hints of Thea’s interest in her new business endeavor before the epiphany occurs. As she and her partner make their way out of their comfort zones, Thea’s ability to roll with the punches, negotiate, and remain productive in the face of uncertainty serves her well.

Despite its marketing as a romantic comedy, the romance plot in The Do-Over is decidedly *not* the focus of the story, which I appreciate. Thea is a powerhouse. Even in her “new life”, she still carries with her the knowledge and expertise to make a business work. The romantic interest, as he comes in, has to prove himself as worthy to her, rather than making his affection something that Thea has to earn. That quality is exceedingly rare in this genre.

Where this book falls *just shy* of a 5-star read is how conflicts are handled in the story. Everything is a little too convenient, at times. After the epiphany, Thea has a bit of a tailspin, and her family brings up the subject of therapy, but she brushes it off and, a few weeks later, gets better. Thea’s business partner, who hasn’t worked in years, is suddenly fully up to the task of being a co-owner of their new endeavor, in a field where she also has no experience. The two of them pick up and move to a small-town community that welcomes them with open arms. The guy who brokers the deal with Thea and her business partner “just so happens” to have all the contacts they need to get their business off the ground, and he’s willing to stick around and work for them at a below-market rate. When their ideas don’t go according to plan, Thea barely has time to consider her options before a fully fleshed-out proposal is literally handed to her. Then, I would expect the prospect of such a large financial undertaking to give Thea more pause than it does, given the snapshot of her childhood that we see in the prologue, but it doesn’t. It takes her some time to come around to the new idea, and then she’s fine with it - no additional turmoil at all. But in the end, these are just nitpicks. I really did enjoy this one.

If I gave partial-stars, The Do-Over would be a solid 4.5 out of 5. Fans of irreverent British humor and self-sufficient female protagonists should find a lot to like in this cozy novel. I am fully on board with reading more from Phoebe MacLeod.

**Thank you to Boldwood Books and Phoebe MacLeod for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.**

Thea has just made partner, the youngest female in the firm to ever make it. But when the senior partner dies Thea realises this isn't the life she wants anymore and risks everything by leaving it behind.
But sometimes to find yourself you need to take a leap of faith.

This was a well-thought-through novel with a strong female character who loses her way but never gives up. I like the way Thea was headstrong and MacLeod writes life-like characters.

I felt this novel was filled more with life lessons than Romanance but loved how it all came together at the end.

Choosing to restart your life is extremely hard, but doing it at the top of your career? Absolutely insane. Thea is whip-smart and someone I aspire to be, though we relate too similarly emotionally. Loved her story of self-discovery and seeing how she created the community around her.

I struggled to enjoy this storyline and connect to the characters. I kept on reading hoping for a change in the story, but it just fell flat. . The plot/storyline seemed disjointed. Some parts were drawn out and not necessary to the overall story while other events were quickly passed over and not developed. I wouldn’t consider this a romcom.