Holiday Read

Read for NetGalley:

When I originally saw the cover, title, and front blurb, I was worried this was going to be a Beach Read knock off.

I was pleasantly surprised that other than the title, there was very little connection to Henry's wonderful (and in a good way).

Candice, trying to make a name for herself in a startup surf business in Cornwall, long ways from Hawaii and her cheating husband, is working on finding herself. While she seems to make new friends working as a waitress, after some twists and turns, she is given the opportunity to fulfill some of her dreams working alongside an author.

This novel packed a lot of feelings, fun characters, and sweetness of finding one's self so very far away from home.

Really enjoyable read.

I loved the concept and the character interaction! I also adored the nerdy references! I loved the character chemistry! Will definitely read another books by the author!

Romance reader Candice met romance writer Alexis. She thought that she was in love until she realized that he was using her as inspiration for the book he was struggling to write.

Love Candice and Alexis. The agent Daniel is terrific as well. Great chemistry altogether. A great plot for anyone who loves to read- especially terrific for romance book lover.

Thanks to the publisher for the arc.

I really enjoyed this. A bit surprised by some of the less favourable reviews. It does frustrate me when people review badly and then critique when they didn't even nearly finish the story. One here criticises the jacket for suggesting it's set on a beach when it's not(?) It's set in Newquay, a major beach town in the UK! But you can't set literally every scene on the beach. Where would the characters sleep?

I found the relationships between the heroine and Alexis and Daniel really engaging, and the dialogue is brilliant. So funny in places. Demi in particular is great. I did find Candice a bit grating at times, but overall she won me over.

I'd read more by this author.

I was drawn in by the beautiful cover and the fun title of this story! Then I was a bit concerned this was going to be a carbon copy of Beach Read but was happy it wasnt! After that initial thought, I didn't compare the novels once. This was my first novel from Taylor Cole and I loved it. It was fun and sweet but also found myself loving the characters and rooting for the couple!

Holiday Read by Taylor Cole was an excellent rom-com.

Wow, this was different than I expected.
I knew just by looking at the cover and reading the synopsis this was going to be a fun time.
This was very cute, and surprisingly really enjoyable.
The romance and a bit of the humour was great IMO.
The characters kept my attention and kept reading.
Overall, I liked it.

"I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own."

Aria & Aries,
Thank You for your generosity and gifting me a copy of this eARC!

A strange read. Got better. Did not like the sexual word references. Had the makings of a 5 star book. I reviewed it. No. The main character came to Cornwall to find her birth father. She was surfer who had also escaped an abuse marriage. . She had lost her mother and found a lovely community in Cornwall and had dreams of being a writer . I won’t spoil the plot. It had a neat ending but just did not flow .

A quick, easy and enjoyable read that I read in one sitting. It was well written with a good storylibne and well developed characters that I really liked.

“Also, if I had time to spare, I’d use it to read a few more pages of the Unhoneymooners”
“There is my future, there is my chance, and I am here to take my shot”
Never too late to read a summer romance, right? Even if you’re closer to winter than the actual summer season but … who cares when you’re reading such a good book!!
I had real fun reading this book. A romance story worthy of Beach Read but where the main couple is not what it first seems !!!
Candice’s story went from betrayal to trying to figure out who she is and what she wants from her life and her past and I loved how much supportive and fun were the people around her when she is in Cornwall. A romance reader meets an author and his agent … what can go wrong right??
Honestly Alexis was such a crazy amazing character to meet and Daniel … well … I’m in love !! I don’t have anything to say.
I really liked how the author developed both the main plot of the story and the romance in it.
I’m really thankful I had the chance to read it and I cannot wait for this one to be out !!!
“It’s simple enough. Everyone loves romance”
“Proud people breed sad sorrows for themselves”

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Yes, the characters could get annoying sometimes- the author did a great job of making Alexis a complete jerk that you just wanted to reach into the book and smack. And yes, the ending did feel a bit rushed… too many strings to tie together, I think, to satisfy all the loose ends. But overall, I found myself highlighting entire passages that spoke to me (some probably because they discussed my favorite author, Jane Austen), and that definitely elevates a book in my humble opinion. I’ll be looking forward to additional works from this author.

Completed this in a day🤩

A much needed Holiday Read🏖🍹
You'll LOVE it<333

THANK YOU SO MUCH NETGALLEY, AUTHOR & THE PUBLISHER FOR THE eARC.

This book felt so casual and a little aloof until suddenly it didn’t. I felt like it was a light and breezy read with a borderline sinister undertone, and then suddenly it was a whirlwind of secrets and urgency and miscommunications. And I loved it.

The ending felt a little rushed, like I could have spent a few more days watching the loose ends get tidied up, but ultimately I liked the neatness after the lovely mess of a middle and all the complexities that came with it.

I really liked the vibe. It was sunny, funny and reminded me of holidays. I also liked the characters even though I would have like more depth in their personality. But the writing was cool, so was the story.

This was such a fun read. The chemistry was palpable between the characters and I loved every second.

Great beach read for romance lovers! This was a fun book with likable characters- will definitely be reading more from this author!

What a privilege to read this as an advance copy! This would be a great book to read on your holidays! Set in Newquay in Cornwall, Candice is working in a café and also offering surf lessons. Candice has left her husband in Hawaii and is in Newquay for a specific reason which isn’t revealed at first so it kept me intrigued as to what her story was. Whilst working in the café she comes across Alexis, a stranger who sets himself up to work from one the tables. Its not until Alexis books a surf lesson that they really start to get to know each other. Everything is not as it seems though, and I loved how this developed throughout the book and the turns it took and how Candice’s life takes an unexpected turn. I was hooked on the story and how this story developed it’s a really light read and there are many laugh out loud moments in the book.
I loved reading about Newquay and enjoyed how the characters came to life, I wasn’t a fan of Makayla at first but she soon grew on me and I enjoyed the humour that her character brings to the story. I loved the friendships that developed and how the stories all pulled together for a great ending. Recommend this book, light, funny, intriguing with great characters,

It was a cute read. Like the characters of the couple. must read this book. go and read this now. read it today if you can. A total new fan.

Absolutely fantastic plot! Could not put the book down once I began reading it. Cannot wait for it to be released. Will recommend it to everyone I know!

Pleasantly surprised, had more substance than anticipated. Great musical references. Will recommend to my romcom readers.

I love the holidays, beaches, and fantastic characters. This book had everything. I loved it and I cannot wait for the next book from this author. It gave me beach reading vibes and I would love to be sitting on a beach with a cup of iced tea, reading this book.

This book was a 4 star for me. It was just ok. It wasn't a book that left me wanting more when I put it down or finished it. It wasn't bad, the writing is very good. I thought that the concept was really good, fake dating while helping the other finish their book. I like it, I just wish that it had grabbed me more.
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I just reviewed Holiday Read by Taylor Cole. #HolidayRead #NetGalley
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Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for this arc read! This romance was full of little twists that I did not expect! I also had no idea where the romance part of it was going at some times which kept me on my toes. There were so many lovable characters and different personalities throughout the story to make it an easy and fun read!

Started quoted interesting and then I was like “what in all the world?” I pressed through and it was quite a satisfying read. There are fun references to other books that make my literary heart happy.

Thank you, Aria & Aries and NetGalley, for an advanced copy!

This book had me on the fence for the first 25%. After that, I felt too invested in the characters to put the book down. This wasn't necessarily a fast read for me, but I still finished it in less than a week. If you're looking for a fast-paced read, this isn't it, but if you're down to go for a stroll with an enjoyable read, you found your book. There were twists and turns that I did not expect, and when I though the book was going to go one way, it through me for a loop and went the other way much like the curveballs that life will throw at you.

Our main character, Candice, runs away from her dead-end marriage in Hawaii to take on a new adventure and find her long-lost father in Cornwall. While waiting tables and running a struggling surf shop, Candice meets Alexis who is in the process of writing a romance novel, but much like the surf shop, the struggle is real. The two make a deal for Candice to help Alexis with his book, but we all know that catastrophe will await them including the entrance of Alexis's agent, Daniel. Will the marriage work itself out? Will the book get finished? Will Candice find her dad? Read on, my friend. Read on.

I loved this romance story -- it will be the perfect summer beach read!

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an eARC.

This was a winsome story about a woman taking charge of her life after things went completely off the rails.
Candice moves to Cornwall from Hawaii after her mothers dies and her husband admits to cheating on her with her best friend.
She finds a job in a cafe and the owner, Demi, lets her keep her camper van (the only accommodation she can afford) on the property. She also tries to start up a surfing lessons business.
She becomes attracted to an author,Alexis, trying to write his next book, but this quickly fizzles out when she finds he was just using her for his story.
Her friends and found family Makayla and Demi are great characters and all about empowering each other and being true to themselves. They are there for her when she finds out about Alexis, and also when her ex Joseph comes looking for her.
Alexis, the would be romance author, is truly an unlikable character in this book. He is sexist and selfish and an elitist. But in the end, his agent convinces Candice to work with Daniel as coauthor on the book.
This is not an especially fast paced book but I adored following Candice on her journey of self discovering and with her friendships with Makayla and Demi. And she also just might find a new love with someone unexpected. This book will be released July 2023.
Thanks to NetGalley for a copy of this arc in exchange for my honest review.

A wonderful read. When Candace comes to the UK, she is escaping her cheating husband and best friend. She is also on a mission to find her father, who was from the Cornwall area. Meeting Alexis and Daniel, she is confronted with two possible love interests. Good read, and was hard to put down. Highly recommend.

I love novels about writing a novel! The Holiday Read is a heart-warming, complex and sweet novel about what it means to leave behind everything you know and set out in search of yourself and your past. Candice left Hawaii for the Cornish coast, determined to start her own surfing business alongside her new eclectic friends. She meets Alexis, a handsome author with the biggest case of writer’s block who suddenly finds inspiration in Candice. Candice has to decide if she can trust Alexis and his editor, Daniel, who suddenly appears to oversee the writing process. This book is so much more than a simple love story. Cast with a fantastic slew of multi-dimensional characters, The Holiday Read takes readers on Candice’s complicated journey of self discovery. I enjoyed Taylor Cole’s writing style and release date of early May will make the Holiday Read perfect for summer indulgence everywhere!

A sincere thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I am fascinated by surfing. I've always enjoyed stories with characters who are surfers (Malibu Rising, anyone?) and this book definitely fit that niche! I know that's an odd thing for someone who's never even been to the ocean, let alone tried to surf. I just find the whole sport and culture fascinating!

That's one of the reasons I find Candace so appealing. I can't imagine anywhere more odd to teach surfing than Cornwall! Add to that her delightful personality quirks, and you've got a top tier main character!

There are lots and lots of unique nerdy references scattered throughout the story, from Dungeons and Dragons to Pride and Prejudice, from Thundercats to The Rime of the Ancient Mariner. Something for everyone, you know. 😉

I love how meta this book is. It is, after all, a book about authors writing a book about authors that might make a great movie. Definitely a theme that romcom readers will understand!

This book arrives in stores during the summer holidays, which is perfect! This is the best kind of fun beach read that all of us reach for in July!

I found this book super interesting. There is a lot more depth here than the usual meet-cute romcom, and I found the main character of Hawaiian surfer turned waitress Candice interesting and engaging.

This book offered more that the usual cute fluff, and made for a nice addition to the romance genre.

This book came full circle for me and it was done is a way that showed many different sides of the main character.

If you like Emily Henry this book is for you, happy ending with quite a few twists. This book could be seen as a slow burn but if you stick it out you maybe happy that you did. I would love to know who will do the audio of this book it just might make a difference how people see this book overall.

I really, really enjoyed this book! It reeled me in from the very first chapter and kept me hooked the entire time.

For fans of Beach Read! All the summer, vacation, sunshine vibes. Highly recommend for a vacation read!

A fun and uplifting book, funny and romantic and a great beach read. The characters in the story are great, I loved the location and the storyline is fun and laugh out loud funny too.

This was a fun read! A romance with just the right amount of mystery mixed in. There were many supporting characters that added to the story, enough that you could hope for spin-off stories in the future! The ending did leave me wondering more about her husband, do they get divorced before the money for her joint novel starts coming in or will she have to split that 50/50 with him?!

I really liked this book because it reminded me of Emily Henry’s Beach Read. Even the cover is similar.

I was really excited to read this and I absolutely loved this book. The character development was great and it was a great little read during the winter. It reminds me of the beach.

Thank you Netgalley for providing me with an arc.

An American abroad to escape her marriage opens a surf school, lives in her van, and waitresses in a local cafe, where she meets a hot author on holiday. Alexis is struggling to finish his work in progress, a romance novel. His agent thinks a summer fling will jumpstart his creative juices and Candice falls for it until she discovers he’s transcribing their interactions as fiction. She’s pissed until his agent Daniel shows up, makes an appeal and an apology, and suggests they write the book together, since it turns out Candice can write. Many adventures follow as Alexis and Candice try to get into the head of their characters, and the romance focus shifts from assholey Alexis to stalwart Daniel.

There are several subtle mysteries: what happened in Candice’s marriage? Why did she flee from Hawaii to Cornwall-–is it really just the surf scene? Details are unraveled with masterful pacing. The novel reads more like literary fiction with strong romantic elements than a romance novel for most of the tale; it’s really about Candice’s growth, self-confidence, boundaries, and the strong friendships she makes. The romance is slow building and consummated off the page. The author pays some homage to the creation and defense of romance novels (clearly the author is a Christina Lauren fan, and I’m dying to know which romance with a red stiletto heel on the cover she references). Cole has has some very beautiful thoughtful passages throughout the book, the waxing on about sand and what is means to Candice (and what it didn’t mean to her ex, Joseph) is downright lyrical. The setting of Cornwall came to life beautifully through the descriptions of the places the characters visited. While the surf details are thorough and the seaside setting undeniable, I would not classify this as a beach read or an Emily Henry readalike.

Alexis was an unsympathetic character and not terribly likeable, and if the reader can’t suspend their disbelief at Candice’s forgiveness, it will be an easy book to drop. I powered through to see if my suspicion about the love interest would pan out.

I received a free advance reader’s review copy of #HolidayRead from #NetGalley.

“When I look up again, he places his hands gently on the curve of my waist and meets my gaze. I can feel his strength drawing me toward him and I can hardly breathe.”
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4,5⭐️/5
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pov: 1st person pov
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Thank you to the publishers, the author and Netgalley for an eARC of this book. My review is my own opinion.
I loved this book so much, first the summer vibes of it were amazing. I loved Candice so much, I also really loved the fact that you don’t know with who she will end up with. Like you think that she will be with someone but maybe not.

A Fair four-star read. This one surprised me, I think I was expecting too much, as I had such high hopes in this story, it started a little slowly and I found the main characters to be mostly unlikable for the start of the story, I did grow to like some of them. I like the underlying themes of finding and loving yourself and some great feelings that will make you smile that is what made this story for me, without that I wouldn’t have finished it.

After reading some scathing reviews of Taylor Cole’s Holiday Read, I had lower expectations that I would enjoy this romance. However, I was pleasantly surprised and enjoyed the novel. I would give it 3.5 stars.

I am glad that I didn’t DNF the book like many reviewers did because once I was past the first 1/3 of the book and as the plot twist started to occur, I became invested in the book and had to see how it ends.

I loved Candice and her two supportive friends. The small Cornish town in which the book is set was charming and beautifully described. I totally wanted to visit the town, see the sights and hang out at Demigorgon. Maybe I would even take surf lessons from Candice.

Yes, other reviewers are correct that Alexis is a total chauvinistic pig and awful— but when juxtaposed with the other warm and respectful male characters in the book, Alexis seems like a miserable, horrible, unlikeable, and lonely human being.

Thank you to NetGalley and Aries for the eARC in exchange for my honest feedback.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for sending me this for my honest review.

I enjoyed this book. It was an easy read and perfect for my morning commutes.

A truly fun rom-com that offers readers something extra -- it lets readers in on the whole process of actually writing a romance novel, as the main character offers to let her friend use her life and story as inspiration for his next book. I look forward to recommending this book to readers who like contemporary romances with lots of humor and witty back and forth -- Emily Henry comes to mind for sure. Great story! Perfect beach read for anytime of year.

I feel like I am in the minority by saying that I actually enjoyed this book. I did manage to finish and and was pleased with the person our female lead ends up with. We all know Alexis is a total douche canoe and I completely understand why everyone was upset and triggered. It probably wasn’t the best to have them both be at that level of inebriated in order to progress their romantic involvement. However I think she also shouldn’t have gone through his personal writings. Sure, she wasn’t upset that her friends went through her journal, but they were also more well acquainted with one another. Just because it didn’t bother her, doesn’t mean it was the right thing to do. Definitely not defending him because he was pretty awful, but he can write what he pleases in privacy. Also, although the romantic scene was a bit awkward, he was not actively forcing himself on her (again, I get they were both drunk and probably should have waited for a better time to explore their interest in one another).

That being said, it did not deter me from finishing the story. I think the ending paid off. The story progresses past the two horrible men in the story until finally finding the right one for our female lead. I wanted to thank NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC of this book. I appreciate the opportunity.

I really loved the relaxed and beach vibe feel of this book, set in Newquay and with all the requisite surf & seaside references.
Candice was a likeable, authentic character to me, her complicated history and love shy approach to life was in direct odds with her love of reading romance books & Jane Austen. There was a lot going on for her but I felt I truly connected with her story and I adored her relationship with her friends Mikayla and Demi who were the dream sisterhood.
The book threw a curveballl halfway which I really enjoyed and the simmering chemistry was built up well. I laughed out loud several times with the witty banter and comic happenings and found it ultimately a book about self discovery and finding your true path in life.

This book gave me Beach Read by Emily Henry vibes, but not in the way that it felt like a rip off of her book. It's more like Beach Read is the big sister and Holiday Read is the little sister. If that makes sense. Similar but still different. I enjoyed reading this story. It was a feel reliable rom com that would probably do well as a movie.

I have read a lot of romance novels, so it's rare when one comes along that surprises me. While I could have predicted the ultimate outcome of this one from the blurb, the journey from start to finish held some unexpected twists. And while it did have the quintessential happily ever after, the characters faced legitimate obstacles and experienced clear growth. I'd definitely read another novel by this author -- the side characters were fun, some of the villains were nuanced and it was easy to root for the main character.

What I loved bout this book is it’s heartwarming propensity to help us see that we can choose our family. That we can curate what works for us. That best friends and family can show up for us in many different ways and help us to see our worth. Anything less and we should and can choose our boundaries, people who don’t respect that, likely have an ulterior motive or not our best at heart.
When surfer Candice moves from Hawaii to Cornwall she is not just escaping her cheating and controlling husband, she’s in search of her ‘dad’, her roots, what to do with her life, but most importantly I’d say, find herself.

Sometimes when we’re looking for something we are too blinded by our obsession of it. I’m also booking my trip to Fistral now, possibly one of the posh DFL ones!

This was a fun read!! I couldn't stop reading this book and it was out in no time!

Thank you to Netgalley and the Aria team for sending me this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I loved the summer vibes in this one! Exactly what I needed on a dull winters night and this one did not disappoint!

Wonderful fun with a terrific storyline and great characters. This is the kind of book that just makes you happy - happy to be reading and happy at meeting this people and how it ends. Especially perfect for fans of Emily Henry

I enjoyed this book. It brought some summer warmth into the cold winter season and was a good story to escape into.
Thank you to Netgalley for the ARC

Just a light hearted funny read. I read this over my holiday break from college and it was just what I needed. So funny and so easy to keep up with. I highly recommend this author and book.

A quick, witty, enjoyable read! I loved the premise and the characters interactions kept me hooked! Flew through this one! Wish I was reading it on the beach! 😉

Super easy romance that I couldn’t put down! I read this in one sitting! Thank you to netgalley and the publisher for allowing me to read and review this title.

Such a good romance! The characters were likable and believable. The story was great and the steam was perfect!

I really enjoyed the concept of this book, and the way the plot unfolded. This book was super sweet, perfect summer read!

I'll be on the look out for more books from Taylor Cole!

Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC!

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.

I enjoyed this book, I felt it was so easy to read and easily pulled me in. This would be the perfect holiday read!

Will be keeping an eye out for more Taylor Cole books!

This was a cute enough romance, nothing special but it was easy enough to read. Will look out for Taylor in the future to see her other books!

I absolutely loved this book. It hooked me and kept me turning pages until I was done. Finished it in two days! The character development was strong, and the premise was unique enough that it didn't feel like anything else I've read.

it is indeed perfect for beach read fans! i found myself grinning and swooning a lot while reading this. a cute summer read 100%! the main couple had an interesting dynamic and interesting conversations which is exactly what i look for in books like this.

Holiday read

The premise of this book is very similar to Emily Henry’s “Beach Read” with an English beach and a quest of self discovery and belonging. Though there is an Austen style longing love interest it doesn’t become a focal part of the book till towards the end. This was a decent read with a strong and empowering message meant to inspire others and most definitely had me inspired to start writing powerfully inspirationally messages. This is a book I would recommend for a casual read but not as a summer must read.

Really enjoyed this story Candice getting over her failed marriage fly's across the word to the British Countryside. While there she meets a struggling romance writer and begins to think she has feelings for him until she realizes he's using her for inspiration. She decides to help him as friends work on the book because she loves romance novels and comes to realize she enjoys writing them as well and she begins to find inspiration herself in the form of literary agent Daniel. I really liked all the characters in this book they all had a good chemistry together and I liked the behind the scenes talk of writing a novel and all that goes into it. If I had one complaint it felt a little longer than necessary and there some added side stories that didn't feel entirely essential to the novel. This was 3.5 stars rounded up to 4 for me. I want to thank NetGalley and Aria & Aries for the arc in exchange for an honest review.

First, I would like to thank Netgalley and Aria & Aries for letting me read this book early! Overall, I enjoyed this story! I thought it was insightful and fun. I definitely wasn’t super sucked in, it was a little drawn out at some parts but, I do think it was worth it toward the end. It was definitely a slowwwww burn and a light burn as well. I really liked the journey of the MC and her found family dynamic. When I was about 30% through the book I read a few awful reviews for this book but decided to finish anyway and I am glad. I don’t think this story is for everyone but I can say that I did enjoy it!

I really do not understand all the negative reviews about this book. There’s plenty to enjoy and learning about Cornwall was fascinating. Candice is building her found family and standing on her own feet after an abusive marriage. An author researching his next book starts a new adventure and career path for her. His agent joins in the endeavor and a positive, strong relationship develops. There’s no spice but plenty of longing looks and thoughts. Demi and Makayla are a hoot and Cole does a wonderful job absorbing you into the setting. Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC.

I absolutely loved this story! It was the perfect amount of backstory and love interest for me. I found myself sneaking in five or ten extra minutes of reading time. This book was a hit for me and I can not wait until it comes out so I can purchase it. Thank you bet galley and publisher for the advanced copy. I give this book 5 out of 5 stars.

I received this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

Fun beach read overall. Can't go wrong for a lazy summer read!

I will start by admitting I picked this based on the gorgeous cover but the story is just as good!
This is my first read by Taylor Cole and it won't be my last.
Lovely storyline, easy reading and based in the UK.
I couldn't put it down and found myself smiling as I read.

This was a super fun cute read I could definitely see this being the perfect summer read while out on the beach

Cute story with a fun premise, I read it in one night!

Many thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the advanced copy of the book.

I deeply enjoyed this title. I felt like the connection was raw and honest-- something I don't see often.

I don’t know that I’ve ever been so wrong about a love interest in a book… great switch by the author here. And Candace was such a great character. Watching her develop throughout this story was wonderful.
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And what a friend group she found in her new home. There was so much wit, laughter, and love between them.
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3.5/5 🌟

A romance novel set in Cornwall written about two characters, Alexis and Candice, who each want to write their own romance novels.

Candice is originally from Cornwall but moved to Hawaii when she was very young, but after the death of her mother and the breakdown of her marriage to Joseph, she decides to move back to Cornwall in the hopes of finding her birth father - a man her mother spent an afternoon (while unhappily married), and ending up pregnant with Candice. On moving to Cornwall, Candice is taken under the wings of Demi, an older woman and maternal figure, and Makayla, slightly younger and very outgoing. They work together at Demigorgons cafe (owned by Demi) and she parks the van she lives in, in Demi's backyard.

Candice starts a surf school as that is what she was doing back in Hawaii, but her heart isn't really in it and what she really wants to do is become and author but she sells herself short. She's also emotionally fragile after being in an abusive marriage to Joseph who then cheated on her with her best friend, getting her pregnant while Candice was grieving the death of her mother.

Alexis is already an established author and thinks he can write a romance novel even though it is clear throughout the story that he really has no idea what romance is and bases his assumptions on what he's seen on "Bridgerton." It's clear he's read some of the romance classics, like the Jane Austen books but he basically sees everything in Austen's books as code for sex and doesn't see the romance angle at all.

Alexis is good looking, arrogant and self-involved, he really couldn't care less about anyone else but himself and is more than happy to use people to get what he wants - and this is exactly what he does to Candice. First he manipulates Candice by flirting with her and leading her to believe he genuinely cares about her, before they end up naked together in his rental property, though it doesn't go as far as sex when Candice decides she needs the bathroom and gets up to find it, accidentally stumbling on Alexis's office and his notebook - full of notes about Candice, her mannerisms, her body, things she's said and his own thoughts about how he can work these into his female protagonist. Candice is horrified and storms out.

Alexis's literary agent, Daniel, comes to Cornwall in what seems like an attempt to win Candice around to Alexis but she's not interested in him in a romantic level at that point. However, she does agree to co-write the book with Alexis, writing the voice of the female protagonist. Alexis being who he is, was happy to take what he could get from Candice while being quite demeaning at the same time and if it wasn't for Daniel fighting for Candice, Alexis would have published the novel without giving her any recognition whatsoever.

From this point it all becomes a bit of a happy every after, the flirting between Daniel and Candice becomes a relationship and she pitches him her novel idea and with his help, she finds an agent to represent her.

I enjoyed the book and I felt that Candice was a character that I could connect with. She was a strong person but due to the emotional abuse she had suffered from her ex-husband, she lacked self-confidence. Living in a small beachside village in Cornwall where she had people in her life, helped her gain a lot of that back. While Alexis was an unlikeable character, he also gave Candice the opportunity to stop herself from ending up in a similar situation to the one she had left behind and stand up for what she wanted, she refused to kowtow to his apologies and allow herself to be drawn back in by him.

I thought the story was well written and while I can see some similarities between this and Emily Henry's "Beach Read," I didn't feel like it was a rip off of the same story.

Loved this premise, the characters and the plot. Overall this was such a fun read, and one that kept me entirely engaged and waiting for what was to come next.

A winding tale of community, friendship and opening yourself up to love at the beautiful Cornish coast - full of sandy beaches, country roads and small town vibes. I thoroughly enjoyed this book despite its lack of romance. It was Candice’s tale primarily, her escape and self-discovery, as she left her difficult past behind and learned what she wanted from life and who she wanted to travel that path with her. She has amazing friends in Makayla and Demi, their vibrant conversation often making me smile. They’re all at different stages in their lives but form a strong family within their wider community.
Candice’s search for her father seemed a little superfluous to the story and whilst the resolution was sweet it was brief and felt more of an afterthought, as did Candice’s brother - an occasional presence in the story that doesn’t seem necessary. However, Alexis’ character was interesting and it would have been interesting to better understand this off-putting, quirky man. He features so prominently but I felt that I never knew him - although with that behaviour perhaps I shouldn’t want to!
Overall this was a solid contemporary read that left me nostalgic for childhood trips to Cornwall!
I received a free copy of this book. All views are my own.

This is an amazing book, just buy it, and sit back and enjoy the ride. A massive five shiny stars from me. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

This was such a great read! Perfect for summer! We are definitely going to be adding this one to our womens fiction section. I loved the dynamic between Candice and Alexis. I also loved the storyline as well. And then Daniel was added into the mix. It really kept the book interesting and I couldn’t wait to see how Candices love story panned out. If she would get her happy ending and with who? I definitely wasn’t disappointed.

I loved so much about this book.
Even before I opened the book I was in love with the cover, the premise and so excited to see where it went.
It did not disappoint I read it in one sitting as the characters and story pulled me in. In love with this book.

Alexis or Daniel? Candice moved to Cornwall to find her father, to escape her marriage, and to start her surf school. But it's not going well so she's also waitressing. She meets Alexis, who, as it turns out, has been using her stories to write his novel, She's not happy about that but then she meets Daniel, his agent,. Less visibly dynamic but a really good guy, Daniel moves into her heart as well. This is light and entertaining with an ending that felt a little rushed, Thanks to netgalley for the ARC, A beach story for a beach read.

I really enjoyed Candace and Alexis! Their story had great tension and I loved the banter. I love books set on the beach and this one was so much fun. I'll definitely be on the lookout for more from this author.

Here's a British novel by an author I've never read before. Taylor Cole brings adventure and romance to intertwine in her book, Holiday Read. Candice has escaped to Cornwall after some marital issues and the sad death of her mother. Candice is trying a new life out for herself with her love of surfing on a minimal budget.

She meets a mysterious customer at the cafe she works at for some regular wages who turns out to be an author. He shares what his next novel is supposed to be, a romance, but he's struggling. Candice finds herself assisting him with the novel as well as briefly having some feelings for him. Until...his literary agent comes to town to make sure the author is doing what he's promised.

Daniel is mysterious and kind and Candice starts to fall for him in a weird and awkward way. The story had me definietly wanting more but I felt like it fell a little flat. The romance was a little disappointing and boring. I often had to guess who Candice had feelings for, if she had any. My rating of this one was a 4-star; I liked the story, but felt like it could have used a little energy booster in there and a little more touchy feely, direct romance in there.

It comes out on May 11th, so if this sounds like its up your alley, pre-order it now!

#NetGalley #HolidayRead

I was excited to read this particularly by the cover and the title so couldn’t wait to get started.

However, I did find the storyline a little slow to start with but once it got going, found it to be a rather enjoyable read.

It was lighthearted in parts but with more serious themes threaded through and the characters were relatable.

Overall, it was a pleasant summer read.

I really enjoyed this fun and engaging book!

Set in Newquay, Cornwall, Candice is trying to keep her surf school business going when she meets romance writer, Alexis.
I thought the scene where they first have a conversation about romance novels is hilarious, and there are lots of other funny moments in the story.
The characters are quirky, the storyline is fun and zips along. I can easily see this as a holiday read like its title.

Thanks to NetGalley, Taylor Cole and Aria for the opportunity to read this advanced copy.

Love this! My favourite setting Cornwall by the sea.

Candice, a romance fanatic works at her own struggling surf school in Newquay, meets Alexis, a writer, thinks he’s her happy ever after but no, he wants help writing and publishing a hit romance novel.
I love the 2 friends Candice has and the emotional side to her and then she meets Daniel, Alexis agent, things change then, hopefully for the better….

He's a tit limpet. In bed.

This is going to be an unusual one to rate, but ultimately I'm giving it four stars because I feel it was massively underrated and that just won't stand with me because I have found some beautiful thoughts and sentiments I relate to! I loved how the author talked about romance novels using the FMC's voice. Sometimes fiction, especially romance novels are so underrated, shoved under the "chick-lit" genre as if they're something less than.

"People get so weird about romance fiction. As if it's something shameful, a guilty pleasure that should be hidden within the dust jacked of Serious Literature and read in secret."

Loved the journey of Candice and really found a lot of myself in some of her situations. Like falling for an asshole and not trusting your gut feeling because of their manipulations.🫠 I also loved that she has no idea what to do with her life, just bouncing between things, trying to find herself. People don't talk about it often - how sometimes we can feel lost in this huge world, without any sense of direction. It's okay to switch jobs, move, break off a marriage, fall for the wrong guy, and then maybe fall for the right guy too.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Aria&Aries for the eARC!

Candice meets Alexis when he is on holiday in the town in Cornwall where she is currently living and working. Then she meets Daniel, and things become more complicated. A great read.

Oh hey Taylor Cole, can we be besties?

So, I have a life update .

I found a new author to obsess over . Taylor Cole is everything I never knew I needed in my life and Holiday Read slipped right into my number one spot of most favored books of this year.

To think I was once a “I only read thrillers” kinda gal.

Wow, I was quite the snob.

I’m glad I finally saw the light and jumped on the Romance/RomCom train .

Holiday Read is the perfect book to pack up in your tote and head to the beach .

The characters all flawed but real, will steal your heart. The flow of the chapters was executed with perfection and I love how the ending came to tie everything together.

This book screams “summer hit”

Don’t take my word for it, this showstopper is free on kindle unlimited

Teaser :

The ultimate escapist rom com for book and beach lovers! Perfect for fans of Emily Henry and Josie Silver.

When romance-fanatic Candice meets writer Alexis, she thinks her happy ending is finally on its way. He walks into her struggling Cornish surf school, and they hit it off straight away. Until she discovers that Alexis has been using their courtship as inspiration for the romantic novel he's struggling to write.

When Alexis offers to bring her in on the deal if Candice helps him deliver a winning book to his publisher, she accepts, and along with Alexis' agent Daniel, they embark on a very unusual summer of love, as Candice tries to teach the men the recipe for a successful romance.

But you can't have a great love story without a great romantic hero. Will Candice find hers before the summer is over?

It was very cute, summery, fun and highly entertaining. The characters were so adorable and the storyline interesting enough to have me hooked through and through. Loved it

Absolutely loved this book!

Taylor you are amazing!

I was hooked throughout and couldn't put this book down.

Thank you for accepting my ARC request.

I really enjoyed this. It was an easy read and the story line kept me up turning pages into the morning. Would definitely recommend to all I know.