Book Review:

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Nicole Wilde has lost her zeal in life. After giving up her career as a music journalist, she has settled into the monotony of domesticated life. But, when she learns of her partner’s betrayal, she realizes the entertainment industry isn’t the only thing that has broken her heart. Things get even more complicated when her former best friend and one time lover re-enters her life. Will Nicole be able to settle back into her role as housewife, or will she leave it all behind for a shot at happiness?

I am a huge fan of Portia MacIntosh. Since discovering her writing back in 2022, I have read eight of her books. All of which have been between four and five star reads. So when I saw that she released this book, I knew I had to read it.

Sadly, this is the first book by MacIntosh that I have not instantly fallen in love with. About forty percent of the way through, I was struggling so much with the characters and story that I contemplated DNFing it. However, because I have always enjoyed her other books I decided to push through.

I am happy that I finished this book. Thankfully, it picked up the last sixty percent. It wasn’t until I read the acknowledgement that I discovered Nicole Wilde is the first character MacIntosh ever wrote. That being said, Wilde is a reoccurring character who has been the protagonist of at least three of her other books. While they are all written as standalone novels, I do feel if I had read the previous books I might have enjoyed this one much more.

Special thanks to Netgalley, Boldwood Books and Portia MacIntosh for allowing me to read this book in exchange for my opinion.

A great uplifting funny read. This book will have you laughing out loud when you are reading it. Another great book by Portia MacIntosh

In this book, we follow our main character Nicole, who was a music journalist a decade ago, and how does she juggle her old and new life. Her old life knocks on her door in the image of Dylan King, a rock star, who wants her to help him clear up his image. It is obvious that he has done some growth as a character. Even Nicole sees it and old sparks fly between them. There are some bumps on the road to their love, but what would be a love story without a few bumps here and there. I really liked Nicole’s character as she is a strong woman herself, and she is standing up for herself finally. She is not letting anyone, especially not a current boyfriend, ruin what she’s been working towards.

This book apparently has a prequel, but honestly, for me, it didn’t feel like I missed something. I might pick up the previous book to just see if it will make a difference, but I loved the book even like this.

For a music lover like me, this was an amazing book. This might not be the genre of music I listen to, but man, this gave me all the right feels. A lot of us probably imagined ourselves being friends and getting together with our favourite musician, and Portia will give it to you in this book. On top of it all, it had everything a second chance romance books needs, with comedy sprinkled in. This would be a perfect read to pick up this spring to help you get into that cosy, lovely feeling that spring brings us.

My first read by this author. The book delves into the lives of two unlikely souls: a brooding rockstar with a past shrouded in shadows and a determined music journalist with a knack for unraveling secrets. Their connection is undeniable, sparking a whirlwind of emotions that keeps you hooked from start to finish. Looking forward to my next Porta read.

I really enjoyed this book. It was different than anything else I've read recently. I couldn't put it down! I will keep an eye out for this author's future work!

Thank you NetGalley and publisher for this arc.

I really liked this book! I enjoyed it so much. Such a cute story. It had it all! Humor, drama, spicy, all of it. A great pallet cleanser!

I liked this second chance roma ce whichade me laugh out loud in places. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for letting me review this book.

Thank you so much for the opportunity to have read and advanced copy of this book by earc. I appreciate the opportunity to read and review.

This was a different take on the second chance romance storyline. I thought that it was a good storyline and was fast-paced. I wasn't a huge fan of the relationship between Nicole and her boyfriend at the beginning of this story so Dylan coming in was just what the plot needed! Dylan and Nicole's relationship was sweet and it progressed very naturally. Overall, it is a good read!

Nicole, a former music journalist, traded her rockstar lifestyle for a settled life with her partner Rowan and his kids. However, when her past resurfaces, it shakes up her world. The novel offers a peek into the music industry and life on the road, with relatable characters and a second chance romance between Nicole and her rockstar friend Dylan. As Nicole navigates trust issues and reflects on her desired life, the story resonates with moms juggling family and past dreams. Despite minor pacing issues, the plot unfolds smoothly with engaging complexity and chemistry between characters. Overall, it's a well-crafted novel by MacIntosh that promises an enjoyable read.

Favorite Quotes:

He’s not so much my one that got away, more the one I was lucky to get away from.

My eyebrows, over the years, went on a real journey, and not a nice one like a holiday, a chaotic one, like Lord of the Rings.

I swear it’s darker over there, where they’re sitting, because even the sun finds them a bit much. It’s almost as though they’ve drawn an invisible circle around themselves, creating an impenetrable bubble of hostility and drama.

...he’s matured like a fine wine, whereas I’m maturing more like a cheese.

Jo claps her hands so loudly that one of the older women at the other side of the playground ducks.


My Review:

I enjoy the clever stylings and humorous content in the writing style of this amusing scribe, her characters’ inner musings and colorful observations never fail to keep me smirking throughout perusal. I do love a good second-chance romance and copious servings of wry humor helped to prevent the angst and regrets of their bumpy past from overpowering the tone of this one. The storylines were somewhat slow and taunting initially, which found me a bit restless and annoyed, although Ms. MacItosh redeemed herself with her deft lashings of comedic wit. I remain her devoted acolyte.

Well I blew through this one, in less than a day! Ex in the City by portia macintosh tells the story of Nicole, a woman in her mid-thirties living in the suburbs with her influencer partner Rowan, who she has recently semi-broken up with, and his two kids from a previous marriage. Nicole is unhappy with her current life, but is sticking in it for the short term to make things easier for the kids. She misses her old lifestyle where she was a journalist and often went on tour with bands. When he former friend Dylan, a rock star, walks back into her life she begins to see that maybe she doesn't have to completely leave her old life behind and that she deserves happiness.

While there is a little bit of romance nearer to the end of the book, the majority of the story is really about self-discovery and breaking out of the mundane if you're unhappy with it. I also loved some of the drama between the pretentious parents Nicole runs into when doing the school drop offs and how the friendship with Dylan just rekindles so nicely even after much time has passed. As with all of the books I've read by this author, this one looks into the relationships and connections between people in a deeper way than the average romance/romcom, making you think a bit more about the world around you and where you are headed. Definitely one I would recommend, and it's out now!

Thanks to @netgalley and the publisher, @theboldbookclub for giving me the chance to read and review this awesome book!

Im a big fan of portia macintosh and I did really enjoy this book even though i found it wasnt like her usual books. A very different take on second chance romance but it was enjoyable and a fun. Quick read

Well Portia is back and reminding her readers why she is so fantastic. This is a book full of humour in true Portia style.

Dylan and Nicole are fantastic characters. I loved this one and getting deeper into the lives of these characters.

This is completely entertaining and as a reader and lover of all of Portia’s books, I can safely say that this is an author who just gets better and better.

Ex in the City is a perfect pick me up book. It is filled with of laugh out loud moments. It is a book that once you start reading, you don’t want it to end. I devoured this book with no regrets, only that I want to experience it as a first read all over again.

I knew this was going to be a great read and that I’d love it. Portia has not disappointed. Everything about this book is fantastic and worthy of all the praise.

This is lighthearted, fun and a must for the TBR.

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I love Portia MacIntosh books! they are always a quick read yet well written with really entertaining characters. the main characters in this one were great fun and the story cracked along at a good pace, I always look forward to reading the next!

Nicoles life couldn't be more different than it was ten years ago. From being a music journalist and hanging out with muscians. Now she is a stepmum to two boys and unhappy in her relationship with influencer Rowan. Where the only thing that matters is what looks good.
When her past comes knocking at her her door in the form of her ex Dylan. Who is in need of help to rehab his reputation before his band have a come back. As Nicole slips back into her old lifestyle she realises its not what it once was. Will Nicole take a chance on happiness with Dylan? Pick up a copy of Ex in the City and find out. An enjoyable romcom that will have you happily turning pages long after you should be.

I enjoyed this light-hearted book, it was funny and very addictive and I loved it. Portia is always a good writer so I knew I was onto a winner here. My thanks to netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.

Ex in the City had a very interesting concept. The idea overall spoke to me, and kept me wanting to know how the story evolves. 

However, the writing didn’t exactly capture me. I understand why it was in that style. It definitely had elements of what you’d find in a feature piece (linking to the music journalist factor within the text), especially when it came to the descriptions. However at times it was just too much detail about things that I feel didn’t serve a purpose in the narrative. I also felt it was a tad repetitive within chapters and disjointed at times. I feel like it just wasn’t for me, but I know it would definitely be something others could enjoy.

I have read or listened to quite a few of Portia's books and always enjoy them.

I liked Nicole right from the start and the relationship she had with her step kids, but I did not care for her husband at all, so was quite happy when Dylan her old friend came into the scene.

Nicole and Dylan had a fun and touching way of interacting and I got swept into it and could easily picture it all. I rushed through this story, keen to find out where it would all end and if Nicole would get her HEA and what kind of mess and drama would come before that end.

The book delves into the lives of two unlikely souls: a brooding rockstar with a past shrouded in shadows and a determined music journalist with a knack for unraveling secrets. Their connection is undeniable, sparking a whirlwind of emotions that keeps you hooked from start to finish.

What sets this story apart is its willingness to explore the complexities of love and redemption. Despite the darker undertones, there's a sense of hope that permeates every page, reminding us that it's never too late for a fresh start.

The chemistry between the leads is electric, crackling with tension and tenderness in equal measure. Watching them navigate their way through past traumas and present obstacles is both heart-wrenching and heartwarming.

But it's not just the romance that shines. The supporting characters add depth and humor, injecting moments of levity that balance out the heavier themes. From quirky best friends to meddling family members, each character feels fully realized and essential to the story.

The seamless blending of humor, drama, and romance creates a cohesive narrative that captivates from beginning to end. And let's not forget the prose, which pulses with energy and emotion, serving as the perfect backdrop to the protagonists' journey.

In the end, this romcom is more than just a love story—it's a reminder that even in our darkest moments, there's always the possibility of finding light. With its memorable characters, sparkling dialogue, and irresistible charm, this book is sure to leave readers smiling long after they turn the final page.