In Sandy Barker's captivating novel, "Shout Out to My Ex," protagonist Elle Bliss finds herself caught between her dreams and her unresolved past. As a talented fashion designer, Elle has always yearned to showcase her work on the grand stage of Paris Fashion Week. However, her love life has been plagued by the lingering memory of her first love, Leo, who abruptly vanished from her life years ago. Despite her longing for closure, Elle remains determined to focus on her professional aspirations. Little does she know that fate has a different plan in store for her. When Leo resurfaces as 'Lorenzo,' a successful and celebrated shoe designer, Elle is taken aback. The man who once held her heart now embodies a completely different persona. Rude, egotistical, and consumed by his own celebrity, Lorenzo seems worlds apart from the Leo she once knew. Yet, as their paths continue to intertwine in the enchanting city of Paris, Elle begins to question whether Lorenzo's arrogant facade is merely a role he plays for the cameras. Buried beneath his fame, she catches glimpses of the person he used to be, reigniting feelings that had long been dormant. Barker skillfully explores the complexities of love, growth, and the masks we wear in this heartfelt tale. Elle's internal struggle between her memories of Leo and the reality of Lorenzo emphasizes the transformative power of time and experience. Through Barker's vivid descriptions of Paris, readers are transported to the romantic city, experiencing the sights, sounds, and emotions alongside the characters. The author's portrayal of Elle is commendable, as she embodies strength, determination, and vulnerability. Elle's unwavering focus on her career adds depth to her character, highlighting her resilience and ambition. Meanwhile, the nuanced development of Lorenzo reveals a multi-dimensional personality, leaving readers to wonder whether redemption and genuine connection are possible. "Shout Out to My Ex" combines elements of romance, self-discovery, and the pursuit of dreams into a captivating narrative. Barker's engaging writing style keeps readers hooked from start to finish, as the story unravels with surprising twists and a deep exploration of the human heart. As Elle and Lorenzo navigate their complicated relationship, readers are reminded of the power of forgiveness, second chances, and the enduring nature of true love. In conclusion, "Shout Out to My Ex" is a captivating novel that explores the complexities of love, personal growth, and the blurred lines between past and present. Sandy Barker's masterful storytelling and compelling characters make this a must-read for fans of contemporary romance. Prepare to be swept away by the allure of Paris, the emotional journey of the characters, and the timeless message that sometimes, love deserves a second chance.

It was really enjoyable to revisit the Ever After Agency in ‘Shout Out To My Ex’ by Sandy Barker. A fabulous follow-up to ‘Match Me If You Can’, this novel has just as much glamour and romance as the first instalment, and I loved seeing Poppy and Tristan together as a married couple!

Set in the fashion world, this instalment focuses on designer Elle Bliss whose sister secretly engages the Agency to facilitate a reunion between Elle and her long-lost-love, Leo… cue a trip to Paris, fashion shows, a fake engagement (NOT involving Elle) and a journey to reveal the truth of why Leo disappeared all those years ago.

I really loved:
- Elle and her sister/business manager Cass had such an amazing relationship which was a joy to read
- When Leo finally communicated, I bought in to his side of the story
- Getting some chapters from Poppy’s POV, with insight into the Agency, her marriage and her new cat (!!!) was awesome
- The behind-the-scenes fashion vibes and the introduction of magazine Nouveau (which seems like it will play a large part in the next book) was fabulous
- I felt like I was swept away to Paris, and also always get excited that the Agency is based in Richmond (near me!)

I wish we had got to hear Leo’s perspective directly, though I did think the idea of having the two POVs being the FMC and the matchmaker extraordinaire readers of the first book know and love was unique and wonderful! I’d 100% recommend this one - though I would encourage readers to enjoy ‘Match Me If You Can’ first for the full experience…

I received a free review copy from the publisher in exchange for my honest feedback. Thanks NetGalley and Boldwood Books UK!

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the arc of this book. This is the first Sandy Barker book I have read and really enjoyed it. I read this book without reading the first book in the Ever After Agency and still enjoyed it. This book can be read as a stand alone. This book follows Elle who was ghosted by the love of her life nearly ten years ago and her sister hires the agency to reunite them for their Happily Ever After. This book has some twists that keep you interested. I would recommend this book.

Just adored this story So heart-warming… I loved… Hit all the feels and had me laughing out loud… Will propel you to your happy place. A must read!… Feel-good romance…

Elle is a fashion designer with a promising carrer but unlucky in love . She met the love of her life when she was 18 at university and they were together with Leo for 4 years until he left for USA when they finished their studies without giving her any expanation . Now 10 years later her sister Cassie is sing her to Ever After Agency so she can have her HEA . Leo is a world famous shoe designer now going by Lorenzo . Their first meeting is set up by the agency as a collaboration betwwen the two designers and both of them are shocked to see each other after 10 years . When they both attend Paris Fashion Week they both attend to the other fashion show and she meet his sister and learns some truths about him . Back at London they spent lot of time working together and he eventually tell her the reason he ghosted her . Will they be able to be together again or his fake fiancee will be an obstacle . I loved that Porry's character and her group of family and friend were part of the book . Looking forward for the next book of the series .
I received this book from netgalley and the publicer as an ARC . Thank you . All thoughts and opinions are my own .