Member Reviews

Check triggers**

Read this if you like: Multiple POV, found family, twists in your romance

As a flight to St Lucia leaves the runway, four passengers meet for the first time. The concept of this book is so good. I had no idea a book about strangers on a long flight would be so amazing.

After escaping her controlling husband, 54 year old Bernadette Manson is taking the first extravagant holiday of her new life. Her best friend cancels so she ends up flying solo.

Tadgh Donovan is a rockstar on the way to his destination wedding when he sees a shocking text. It appears that his bride to be is cheating on him, maybe even with his brother.

Hayley Ford is a dance teacher and the wife of a top fertility specialist. Ironically her battle to get pregnant has almost broken her marriage.

Dev Robbins is a sportwriter who wishes to be a romance writer. He is crossing oceans to track down the woman he fell in love with at first sight.

The characters in this book are so well developed. They are all unique in their own way. I love that they all have back stories. I love how different they are but how they all come together. Great found family vibes in this book. Seriously recommend this one! It blew me away.

Thank you to Rachel's Random Resources, the author, and Boldwood Books for the gifted copy!

Was this review helpful?

I am a big fan of Shari Low and this is another excellent book. The book is set over 24 hours and most of that is a plane journey which does not particularly exciting but Shari has such a talent for creating characters that you immediately identify with and want to know more about. I could not put this book down and literally read it in one day. This book should be top of everyone’s TBR stack this summer! #OneLastDayOfSummer @ShariLow

Was this review helpful?

One Last Day of Summer by Shari Low
After escaping her controlling husband, Bernadette Manson is taking the first extravagant holiday of her new life. But when her best friend cancels, will she be strong enough to fly solo?
Tadgh Donovan is about to jet off to his destination wedding when he sees a shocking text.
Hayley Ford is the wife of a top fertility specialist, yet her battle to get pregnant has almost broken her marriage. Can a trip to the sun heal their relationship, or should she brace for a crash landing?
Dev Robbins is crossing oceans to track down the woman he fell in love with at first sight. Will it be a one-way trip to happy ever after or a return journey to singledom?
I love the feel-good vibe you get from Shari Low's books; I have enjoyed reading many of her novels.
In One Last Day of Summer, we meet Bernadette, Tadgh, Hayley and Dev. We learn each character's back story in their own words, and through their own chapters, we understand what caused them to choose to travel to St Lucia.
The majority of the story takes place on the nine-hour flight to St Lucia. Revelations are revealed, and friendships are formed. There are some sad, moving moments, and meaningful personal decisions are made; love, happiness and humour also have their place in this fantastic read.
I want to thank publishers Boldwood Books, author Shari Low and big thanks to Rachel's Random Resources for a copy to read and review.

Was this review helpful?

Who would have thought that a row of seats on a plane would be such a brilliant setting. I was expecting St Lucia but instead I found myself sandwiched in premium economy between a grumpy rock star, a sports journalist who wants to write romcoms, a young woman whose husband has deserted her for first class and a nurse who has lost her confidence.

Plus there was the steward Stefan, every flight needs one of him. He brought humour along with the Prosecco and Pringles. Talking of humour this book has it in bucket and spades and I will never be able to hear the Macarena again without thinking of Dev.

This isn’t all fun and laughter though and these characters haven’t had it easy. Controlling marriages, gaslighting, cheating, loss and struggles with infertility they could all really use a friend or three.

By the end of the flight you will have smiled, laughed, silently fumed and maybe even raged a little. Or like me wondered if there was anyone on the plane that Cheryl hadn’t slept with!

I loved getting to know them all and by the end of the flight I had my hopes for what would happen, so I was nicely surprised when the author pulled a trick out of her sleeve like some cunning magician.

A perfect summer read, this was a wonderful blend of romance, friendships and “Friends” references. All the plane was missing was the left phalange!

Was this review helpful?

4 strangers end up sitting on the same row in premium economy on a flight to St Lucia
Each passenger has a different reason for being on the plane which unfolds as the book progresses
Hayley is supposed to be with her husband but he upgraded himself to business class ! Which gives you a hint of what he is like !
Tadgh is with his brother and friend and is on his way to meet his bride for their wedding but there was a problem with his original seat
Bernadette was supposed to have been going on holiday with her friend but she had to cancel so her family persuaded her to go alone
Dev has fallen for a stranger he had a one night stand with and has found out that she was going to a wedding in St Lucia so decided to go to find her
A fantastic story where they all find they have more in common than they thought

Was this review helpful?

Shari Low has done it again! It never ceases to amaze me how Shari keeps coming up with stories with such brilliant characters that pull you in from page 1 and don't let go of you until you have finished!

If anyone ever told me I would devour a story about 4 strangers on a plane together and love every minute of it, I think I would have given them a very sceptical look! However, if you had told me the author was Shari Low, then I think I might have believed you immediately!

This was another brilliant book with such well rounded, interesting, loving and flawed characters that all just suck you into their story. I think everyone needs a Bernadette in their lives!

This is a book that is meant to be felt, not just read. I went through the pain and rollercoaster of emotions together with the characters, feeling the dread in my stomach and welling up and even laughing out loud several times. Each character had an interesting story to tell, so much so that I was telling those around me all about them as if they were friends of mine!

Was this review helpful?

This book is a very easy read, which is perfect for the summer!
The story is told from 4 people's point of view, who all meet for the first time on a flight to St Lucia, and as the story goes on, their lives become linked in so many different ways!
The 4 people that get on the plane, get off as 4 completely different people.
A story about True Love, and Amazing friendships - I really enjoyed this and will definitely be looking out for the authors future and past reads.

Was this review helpful?

Wow. Shari Low is a queen of heart-warming, uplifting yet realistic and dramatic romantic fiction. She has outdone herself once again and I’m going to say this is a new favourite of mine.

Romantic fiction is such a crowded market, it is always a pleasant surprise when an author manages to deliver something original and refreshing, yet Shari manages to do this every single time.

I loved how the majority of the book took place over a very short time span and in a rather claustrophobic atmosphere of a plane. This definitely heightened the drama and the raw emotions we witnessed by each of the characters.

The multiple perspectives and the personal flashbacks also help to provide context and backstories that create empathy for the characters. For me, I particularly felt for Heather but I absolutely loved hearing from Tadgh, and his unique connection with Lizzy.

I’m sure there will be people who read this book and are able to predict the ending. I couldn’t, and to be honest I didn’t even try. I was so engrossed in the story and how it unfolded that I think I just simply read it, enjoying the page numbers creeping up but also wishing that the ending wasn’t getting nearer. I felt like a fly on the wall of the aeroplane, and I loved having that closeness with each of these wonderful, likeable characters.

Overall, a gorgeous and wonderful read by a very talented storyteller. This book, and author’s work in general, is perfect for fans of Milly Johnson, Carole Matthews and Mary Jane Baker.

Was this review helpful?

Four strangers are sat next to each other on a plane, by the end of their journey, friendships are formed and new love is flourishing

What's not to love about this book?! Low gives us amazing characters that each bring a unique narrative to this novel; even the characters you know to dislike. Each main character alternates chapters, which reads easily and continues to push the narrative forward.

This storyline is told over the space of (nearly) 24 hours, following the lead-up to getting on a plane, to the majority of the novel set out on the plane, I found this really cleverly done as the author keeps the reader engaged throughout.

If you have not read this book, it really is an uplifting romantic holiday read and one I would highly recommend.

Was this review helpful?

Shari low does it again. Shari’s books are like coming home. Perfect summer read. The characters were great and relatable and I finished this within 24 hours.

Was this review helpful?

Well Shari Low does it again. Absolutely loved this book, didn’t want it to end! I actually felt as though I was in the row behind them.

I loved each character and enjoyed hearing each of their back stories. I had to keep reading as I eager to find out what was going to happen next.

I need all these amazing people in my life. My heart was literally in my mouth at some points, I was feeling all the emotions!

I’ve read a few books by this author and they never disappoint. Such a fantastic read.

Thank you to Rachel’s Random Resources for offering me a place on the blog tour and for my gifted ebook.

Was this review helpful?

I really enjoyed this book, a new author to me! It was light, uplifting, easy to read and had sweet, interesting characters which kept me hooked! Looking forward to reading more books by this author

Was this review helpful?

Loved this story of love, life, friendship and second chances.
This book gave me 'all the feels' as one of the characters Bernadette may appreciate!

The four main characters all meet on a plane under different circumstances and they get to know each other over the long haul flight to St Lucia. They come to realise that they all have so much more in common than they may realise.

I loved that the story flipped between each character and their present and past lives. They intertwined beautifully and each section always left me wanting more when it jumped over to the next character! Lots of laughter, tension and 'oh my goodness' moments left me feeling excited to pick it up every time!

If you want a heart warming, feel good book with humour and some sorrow. This is the book for you. I highly recommend it! 👌

Was this review helpful?

I first read a Shari Low book earlier this year – What Next? – and really enjoyed it, so when I heard One Last Day of Summer was coming out, I was excited to read it.
The story begins on 12th August, 8am – 10am and we follow the stories of four characters – Bernadette, Tadgh, Hayley and Dev.
The first chapter is written from Bernadette Manson’s viewpoint. She is 54 and an A&E nurse at Glasgow Central Hospital. She is divorced, has a grown up daughter Nina (33, married with two sons – Casey is 7 and Milo is 5) and son Stuart (26, lives with partner Connor).
Bernadette is due to go on holiday to St Lucia later that day with her friend Sarah. But then Sarah rings her and their plans have to change.
I could really relate to Bernadette. I was also in a controlling relationship which drained away all my self-confidence. I definitely recognised the “world paved with eggshells” Bernadette describes.
The second chapter is from Tadgh’s viewpoint. Tadgh Donovan is 28, a Dubliner, a graphic designer and lead guitarist in the band Home. He is engaged to Cheryl (28). They are going to St Lucia to get married. But will everything go to plan?
The third chapter begins Hayley’s story. Hayley Ford is 32 and a dance and drama teacher. She is married to Dr Lucas Ford (35), who is a specialist in infertility. Hayley has so far failed to get pregnant herself and hates the irony of the situation. Lucas is a bit of an arse (other words are available) and I felt so sorry for Hayley. She is taken for granted, unappreciated and often ignored. She definitely deserves better than Lucas!
The next chapter introduces us to Dev Robbins. He is 30 and a sports writer for the Essex Tribune. Unsatisfied with his job, he has decided that what he really wants to do is write a novel – specifically a romcom. One evening, out with his flatmate Lizzy, he finds a girl he thinks could be the love of his life. But she had disappeared after their night together and all he knew was she was heading to St Lucia. So he planned to follow her there…
Shari Low writes beautifully, in a really accessible style that is easy to read and draws you in straight away. I love the humour too. One of my favourite lines was about Dr Lucas – “his sperm were high achievers, just like the rest of him” – hee hee!
Her characters are completely believable. It is a very interesting to see all the different types of relationship explored too and how some seemingly wonderful couples just don’t work out in the long term.
The nine-hour flight to St Lucia forms the majority of the book. With the main characters all sitting near each other, their stories come out and friendships are formed. I loved the idea of this!
There are some bits of the book where you really want to hit a character (ha ha), so it shows I was emotionally invested in the story. Overall, it’s a beautiful read, heart-warming and positive and I loved the characters, especially Bernadette who I could learn a few things from!
I’m looking forward to reading all of Shari Low’s books at some point and I would definitely recommend this as a fabulous read, not just in the summer, but any time of the year.

Was this review helpful?

four passengers are on a flight to St Lucia, the flight will change their lives. It is an easy read that keeps you interested. enjoyed it very much

Was this review helpful?

I enjoyed the majority of this book. I liked that 4 strangers discover friendship and some tenuous connections during a 9 hour flight to St. Lucia. I liked all four characters for most of the book too.

The ending really fell flat for me. <spoiler>It was one chapter of "Ta da! Here's some happily ever after for everyone!!" I especially didn't think it was appropriate or likely for Hannah and Tadgh to jump right into a new relationship 5 seconds after ending the relationships they were in when they boarded the plane. </spoiler>

I also think the title of the book is lacking. Summer has nothing to do with this story which is about a travel day to the Caribbean. It isn't set at the end of a summer vacation and "who will say goodbye at sunset" also isn't part of the story.

*I received an advance copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher and I am required to disclose that in my review in compliance with federal law.

Was this review helpful?

Love, love love this story, and so perfect for this time of year for those summer holiday vibes!

One Last Day of Summer is centered around 4 main characters – Bernadette, Tadgh, Hayley, and Dev, who are all on their way to Saunt Lucia and end up being seated together on the flight. During the 9-hour flight, the 4 of them strike up a friendship. Each of the characters has their own problems and issues and throughout the flight, as they each get to know each other a little better, they begin to open up to one another about their problems.

As the story develops, we get to find out a bit more about each of the 4 main characters – Irish rock star Tadgh, who is going to St Lucia for his wedding to his fiancee Cheryl. He should be elated and excited, except for one fact – just before boarding the place, Tadgh saw a text on his brother’s phone which looks like his brother could be having an affair with his bride-to-be.

Hayley is hoping for a relaxing holiday with her surgeon husband. They have been through a particularly stressful time after several failed IVF attempts, and all Hayley wants is just a relaxing break. Her controlling and manipulative husband has other ideas, and even before the holiday has started has made Hayley feel worthless – he upgraded himself to business class on the flight, leaving Hayley on her own.

Dev is flying halfway across the world to St Lucia to try and find the ‘love of his life’ after a one-night stand with a girl called Cheryl – it couldn’t be the same Chery, could it?! And, Bernadette is stepping out of her comfort zone, and going on holiday alone, after her best friend has had to stay home for a family emergency.

I absolutely loved the story of One Last Day of Summer – seeing how all 4 of the main characters got to know each other was just so lovely to see their relationships changing and evolving in just a short period of time. Beautifully written and for me, the perfect summer read – I can 100% guarantee you will love it just as much as I did.

Was this review helpful?

Thank you Boldwood Books and Rachel’s Random Resources for the advanced reading copy & including me on the tour. My review contains my own thoughts and opinions.

“I honestly think sometimes, people are just put in the right place at the right time and there’s no way to explain it.”

I found One Last Day of Summer absolutely delightful! Four strangers sit next to each other on an international flight to St. Lucia and connections and friendships happen all around. This is a romance, but I would say it’s more women’s fiction for most of the book. It was wonderful and so hard to put down!

Was this review helpful?

Shari's books are always an absolute delight to read and this was the perfect summer beach read.

The storyline caught my eye and I was hooked from the very first page. Told from multiple points of view we see how four strangers travelling on the same flight connect with each other and how these chance meetings change the course of their lives.

Fabulous characters, great settings... plane heading towards St Lucia anyone?

I absolutely loved this book, it was the perfect feel-good romance that made me shed a happy tear or six when I reached the last page.

Can't wait to see what Shari treats us to next!

Many thanks to Rachel's Random Resources for my tour spot.

Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Was this review helpful?

One Last Day of Summer by Shari Low is a fun, light hearted, travel-themed novel that will be the perfect book to pack for your next holiday! Alternating between four main characters; Bernadette a nurse nearing retirement age, Tadgh a band member flying to his destination wedding, Hayley a 32 year old teacher and Dev a writer and hopeless romantic, who are all traveling to St Lucia but for many different reasons! Over the course of several hours of plane travel, the characters get to know each other quite well and soon find that they are connected in ways they never would have expected. Low's careful planning, purposeful foreshadowing, and slow reveal of twists and surprises leaves readers desperate for more. This is definitely a book that is hard to put down but yet it is a fun and easy read, perfect for a relaxing day on the beach or over a long plane ride! I would highly recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a romcom or women's fiction that is interesting and funny but also has some great character development and lots of twists and turns! Thanks so much to NetGalley, Boldwood Books and Shari Low for giving me the chance to read and review this book as well as participate in the Boldwood Books Summer Read Along!

Was this review helpful?