Beth O’Leary does it again with another banger! What a book this was.

The premise behind swept away, a one night stand turns into being lost at sea, was fantastic in itself, but the execution was incredible. With the majority taking place at sea, in a house boat, with just two people, O’Leary managed to make you fall in love with both characters and still built a rich and engaging back story.

At the core, the book is about is about love. Familial, friendships and romantic, and it’s hard not to fall in love with the story.

With plenty of twists and turns, this book isn’t smooth sailing - but the end destination is worth the journey.

Thank you NetGalley and Quercus Books for the ARC.

This captivating story of unexpected romance takes readers on an emotional and physical adventure, as Lexi and Zeke navigate more than just the waves of the North Sea. Lexi, looking for a carefree night, and Zeke, a man searching for true love, are drawn together by intense chemistry. Their impulsive night together leads to a morning of confusion when they discover their houseboat has drifted out to sea.

What starts as a simple one-night fling quickly turns into a survival tale, as they face the harsh reality of being stranded. The novel does an excellent job of blending romance with suspense. As the days pass, the tension between the characters builds—not only from their dangerous situation but from the emotional complexities that arise when two people from different worlds are forced to confront their feelings.

Zeke’s warmth and charm contrast with Lexi’s independent, guarded nature, creating a dynamic that keeps readers hooked. The storyline is elevated by the looming threat of isolation, making the romantic stakes feel even higher. You’ll find yourself wondering whether they can make it through not just the challenges of survival, but also the vulnerability that comes with opening their hearts to each other.

Filled with heartfelt moments, unexpected twists, and breathtaking descriptions of the unforgiving sea, this book offers a thrilling escape. The combination of high-stakes survival and a slow-burn romance makes it a unique and enjoyable read. Will Lexi and Zeke return to shore as a couple, or will the turbulent waters tear them apart? It’s a question that will keep you turning the pages until the very end.

3.75-4 stars - I’ve read my fair share of lifeboat/survival-at-sea novels, but this is by far my favourite! A solid romance storyline with actual chemistry, including the quite well done older woman/younger man trope; a plot twist I genuinely didn’t pick up on until shortly before it was revealed; and AN OIL RIG SEQUENCE 😍 I also cried happy tears when they were rescued, and I haven’t cried at a book in a looooong time. For my first Beth O’Leary novel I was pretty impressed!
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC.

Swept Away blew me away. It’s a seriously good book. It packs a pinch as a rom com /chick lit type book, sure, but it’s got so much more depth to it than that. The author has taken a fascinating plot line and layered it with detailed character analysis and social commentary. Beth O’Leary knows how to create an interesting character but this time she has taken them into the realms of representing modern gender perspectives and she has done it without being preachy or obvious or condescending. This is her best book yet.

All the makings of a great novel! It’s like Adrift but hopefully with a less heartbreaking ending! I absolutely love the concept and Beth O Leary never disappoints! Can’t wait!