4/5 stars.

This was a cute cruise ship romance. I had a fun time reading it. Eliza’s journey from feeling like a failure to her family and applying for a job with adventure is very relatable. I’m not usually a fan of love triangles but Oscar, Tom, and Eliza were very cute throughout the book. You got to understand them more and more as the storyline progressed.

I really enjoyed the feeling of adventure while reading and the little boat games they played. It added to the plot line. I am also a big musical theatre fan so I loved all the references. Super cute.

In my option they book ran a little long at 500 pages and dragged a bit. That’s a the love triangle for me made it hard to continue at some points. I’m just not a fan of deciding between two super sweet lovers.

The spicy scenes made up for a lot though! Those were great and helped pick back up the pace.

All in all it was a cute, fun, enjoyable summer read about self-discovery, and love with humor mixed in.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

It's the way that this book was everything I didn't know I wanted. Eliza was such a relatable character- feeling like you're constantly failing at everything while everyone around you seems to be excelling and enjoying their lives. I really loved how every single character you meet had their own stories and personalities without seeming overdone or caricatured. You could see the growth each and every character experienced from the beginning of the book to the end- no matter how big or little part they played. I'm not usually a fan of love triangles, but Philippa really outdid this one and I really enjoyed it! From the get go, I was rooting for the MMC Eliza ends up with (and honestly if this ended up as a throuple I would not have been against it) even while the other MMC was involved. And despite the warning at the end, all I want to do know is go get a job on a cruise ship!

This book was AMAZING! Literally what a rom com should be. I found myself giggling every couple of pages and flat out cackling at others. I love the personal development of all three MCs and their love triangle was HOT HOT HOT 🥵 definitely a must-read this summer.

I love that it was set on a cruise ship as well as I don’t think I’ve ever read a book set on a ship before. Philippa’s writing style sucked me in and made me feel like I was right there on that ship with the characters. Stunning descriptive scenery, detailed emotional struggles, and of course the relationships between the characters was so well written. A bonus point for this being a queer friendly story too! If you’re looking for a 5-star summer read, this is it.

Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC. This book surprised me. I did not know what to expect. Wow there were so many good characters in this story and enjoyed it very much. Ready to go on my first cruise.

I wanted to first and foremost thank Philippa Young & Summer Stars Publishing for the advanced copy in exchange of an honest review.

I initially picked this one up because I was looking for a nice summer read, but I ended up DNF-ing it at about 15-20% in.

I just couldn’t connect with Eliza, and honestly Tom and Oscars names really just gave me an ick. The writing was nice, but the chapters were far too long to capture my attention unfortunately.

I’d could see myself giving this one another chance; but it wasn’t for me right now.

⭐ Characters – ⭐⭐⭐⭐
⭐ Atmosphere – ⭐⭐⭐⭐
⭐ Writing – ⭐⭐⭐
⭐ Plot – ⭐⭐.5
⭐ Pacing – ⭐⭐
⭐ World Building – ⭐⭐⭐
⭐ Enjoyment – ⭐⭐.5

More than Shipmates by Philippa Young takes readers on a journey into a contemporary love triangle set aboard a ship, evoking the vibrant energy of movies like Mamma Mia from the 2000s.

The characters in this debut novel are expertly crafted, with each bringing their own unique personality and background to the story. Their interactions feel authentic and dynamic. However, the lack of challenge in the relationships stands out. Obstacles are easily overcome, which lessens the impact of certain situations. The protagonist, Eliza, sometimes exhibits hypocrisy in her expectations of others' actions without following through herself, which may make her character less relatable to readers.

Young's skill in capturing the ship's setting shines through, immersing readers in a vibrant and occasionally chaotic environment. Descriptions of the ocean, ship activities, and the camaraderie among the crew create a vivid backdrop. However, the focus on theater and plays may be less engaging for readers unfamiliar with these topics.

The prose occasionally feels awkward or rushed. The presence of multiple points of view in the middle of chapters can be confusing and overwhelming.

The execution of the love triangle concept lacks depth in the initial romantic connections before progressing to another person, leading to a loss of emotional investment. Intimacy scenes suffer from inconsistency and rushed portrayals, weakening the emotional connection. The frequent changes of scene and lack of closure in certain aspects can disrupt the reading experience.

While More than Shipmates offers vibrant characters and a unique setting, the issues with pacing and an underwhelming plot prevent it from fully captivating readers. As a debut in the New Adult romance genre, it shows promise with its diverse characters, immersive atmosphere, and exploration of complex relationships. However, improvements in writing, plot development, pacing, and world-building could enhance the overall reading experience. Fans of LGBTQIA+ romance and those interested in shipboard settings may find elements to enjoy, but it may not stand out as an exceptional read for everyone.

Review Posted on Goodreads, July 17th : https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5685545534

SUCH A FUN READ!
'
This was my first cruise ship story but this was so well done. This was an easy read which is the best in my honest opinion, loved it and would recommend it!

After reading about this book I knew this would be the perfect book for me! I absolutely love all things cruises so for there to be a book based around one I had to delve straight in.

The characters were all fabulous, very modern characters that are extremely lovable and all with a big of drama going on for them all.

The story itself was super exciting and just fun, so many times I burst out laughing. I just absolutely loved this. I definitely will be reading more from this author in the future as they sure know how to write a best seller!

4.5 stars

More Than Shipmates is a tension-filled and steamy book that I really loved! Now most of you know I'm not the biggest fan of love triangles but boy did Philippa Young do the trope justice and found myself enjoying that element of the story!

I loved the premise of this, especially being set on a cruise ship and honestly the games the crew played were some of the best parts!

Told in all three mc's perspective you really get to know these characters more. I really liked Eliza and thought she was an amazing main character. I loved watching her journey of self-discovery. Oscar and Toby were both incredibly swoon worthy and I honestly loved both of them.

If you're looking for the perfect summer romance then I definitely recommend this one! I cannot wait for the next book and whatever Philippa Young writes in the future.

Thank you so much for the opportunity to be an ARC reader NetGalley & Philippa, I had an amazing experience with this super cute, romcom!

When I tell you I absolutely devoured this book, I mean I literally finished it in 24 hours.

Philippa posted a snip on her Instagram that said if you like the show Below Deck, you’ll love this book. Well, guess what? Below Deck happens to be my very favorite show ever and she was 1000% correct! I absolutely loved the fact this book focused solely on the behind the scenes of the crew and real life struggles so many people deal with in their every day lives.

I had a love and hate relationship with Tom as I was rooting for Oscar from the very beginning but I loved the relationship him and Eliza ended up with in the end. Now Oscar on the other hand, phewwf that man had me about ready to quit my day job and apply for a yachty/cruise ship position, like ASAP! Talk about swooning in my freaking seat.

Eliza’s character had me relating to her in such a way that I really resonated with. I struggle with anxiety, my self esteem and self doubt too so it was great to see that represented in a book. I loved her growth and character development over the course of her contract, and I’m sad to see her and Oscar’s story come to an end. I would love to read another book about those two, they had me giggling like a schoolgirl and crying with them throughout the whole read. I wasn’t ready for it to be over at all! Nonetheless, as my relationship ended on a positive note with Tom, I cannot wait to read about his and Gemma’s story next! Can’t wait to see what comes next. xo

Eliza Chapman feels like she has never been good enough for anything in her life - she didn't get into drama school, her love life is a disaster and she needs a new job.  Looking for a fresh start, she decides to put herself out there and takes a 6 month long job on a cruise ship.

Her first day she meets an American comedian named Tom and also meets a Brit named Oscar, who just happens to be naked in her cabin - welcome to ship life!  After her previous relationship she has no interest in any type of romance....but being stuck on a ship for 6 months might change her mind!  

I love Romantic Comedies and this was a fun read. It has just enough tension and angst to keep me interested - plus the banter was great.  The games and activities they got themselves into on the ship were very funny.  I enjoyed seeing Eliza grow and really discover herself away from her family.  This was a great debut by author Phillipa Young

🌟Tropes
💙Workplace Romance
🩵Forced Proximity
💜Witty FCM
💙Love Triangle
🩵Multi POV
🔥Spicy scenes

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this copy of More Than Shipmates.

This one so did not do it for me.

The writing was well done, but the characters were not. It felt like the same things were happening over and over again. At some point I began disliking the characters, particularly the FMC because of her choices. The premise kept me hooked for a good portion of this book, but I felt like I was waiting for it to get better the entire time.

It was simply not what I expected! I don’t typically enjoy love triangle romances, and this one was no different. Some people do - this could certainly be for them!

Overall, an okay read for a rainy day. Not something I would choose to read again. Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.

I initially picked up More Than Shipmates by Philippa Young because I’m a fan of binging Below Deck. It follows Eliza - who is kind of a down on her luck, lost young 20’s heroine who needs something different. She decides to work on a Caribbean cruise as a change of scenery and meets her two love interests.

This book fell short for me a little bit in the promise for a love triangle. I found that the first love interest fizzled out really quickly and felt more like an experience of watching her go through two relationships? The tension was really missing for me here.

I did however really enjoy the side characters, their friendships, and how they were all woven into the story.

I think this series has a lot of promise, and I will definitely be picking up Tom’s book.

Thank youNetGalley and Philippe Youbg for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.

This book is a love triangle trope with some hilarious moments, emotional and smutty parts. I love that! I love the multiple POVs!

Very happy with how the book ended and I can't wait to see what happens next!

I dnf at 5% because I got 5% in and was already lost with the plot. This book is for some people and that's great! It just was't for me

Thank you Netgalley for an ARC of this book for an honest review

I do not like not finishing books but this just wasn't for me. I love reality TV set on boats and love romances with love triangles and the friends to lovers trope but I just couldn't get passed the immaturity of the main characters and I had to abandon ship.

Read this book if you want some smut!!! I requested this one after seeing good reviews for it on bookstagram and I couldn’t help myself 😂

Read if you like:
🥵 Lots of Spice
💋 Multiple Love Interests
🛳️ Cruise Ships
🧳 Traveling
🚢 Workplace Romances

This one will make you laugh and is just such a fun read! The smut was fantastic, and surprisingly the story has much more depth than I thought it would.

Definitely check this one out as it was a surprising romance! Thanks so much to the publisher for my ARC!

I have never been on a cruise, but this book was an interesting insight to life working on a cruise. I had never given much thought to what the cruise ship workers do in their off time, but now I have a good idea. The close proximity of the people, their rooms, their jobs, their day-to-day is very unique.

Eliza was never the star and this is her chance to shine. I liked the multiple points of view, seeing life as both Eliza and her suitors. I have to admit I was waiting for the holder of the name tag to reappear and couldn't be more pleased with how it turned out.

This is a fun summer read, and I highly recommend it!

Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC.

Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with an ARC of this book!

Initially, I was hesitant when I discovered it was a love triangle, as I typically don't enjoy that trope. However, surprisingly, it worked well in this book.

If you're in search of an enjoyable summer read with a touch of spice, look no further. This book offers a perfect blend of the forced proximity trope and entertaining drinking games, which I absolutely loved. The setting on a cruise ship added an extra layer of enjoyment, and the dynamics within the friend group were exceptional.

I do have one complaint regarding an incident that occurred in the last hundred pages, which frustrated me to no end. However, I can acknowledge why it happened, even if it did prove to be a bit annoying.

Overall, I genuinely liked this book, particularly the first half, which was incredibly engaging.

Thank you to Summer Stars Publishing Limited and Philippa Young for the ARC! This book is a spicy love triangle with humor, sincerity, and friendship throughout. The book is organized in multiple povs that got confusing because I felt that I was sometimes in everyone’s head at once. I enjoyed Eliza’s character because she felt the most realistic out of the entertainment team. Oscar won my heart over Tom in the end as far as the love triangle went but to each their own! The spice in the book felt a little disjointed and random at times; I didn’t understand the immediacy of some of the spicy moments. I couldn’t find myself believing in all of the spices. There were hot moments, don’t get me wrong, but some of the scenes didn’t feel genuine. Overall the book is not too shabby for a debut; room to grow!