Member Reviews
The first Sarah Ready book I read, Ghosted, left me pleasantly surprised, so I was eager to pick up Switched when it was released. This second book did not disappoint and provided me with much of what I really liked about Ghosted and more. I felt like the beginning of Ghosted was a little cheesy, if I remember correctly. I don't remember experiencing that at all in this book.
Sarah Ready seems to be able to take some tropes and turn them into a wild premise, and then she makes it all work. Switched is a Freaky-Friday but make it Woman-in-STEM trope mashup in an Enemies-to-Lovers romance novel (with mild open-door scenes near the beginning and end of the book). Serena refuses to let a relationship get in the way of her career in science, but when a chance encounter with a guy at a bar reveals itself to not only have potential for love-at-first-sight but also a workplace romance, Serena backs out quickly, making herself out to be an undesirable match. This works out fine until a mishap at work creates some sort of anomaly that has our two characters soul-swapping (which is actually body-swapping) and Serena and Henry have to start living life together, forced-proximity and fake-dating in order to help each other through some major life events in the other's body. After a lifetime of refusing to change herself for someone else, Serena is changed into someone else without her consent, and she and Henry must wrestle with how to find themselves again, all while growing in understanding for one another and for what it means to share a life together, not reducing one another but helping the other person shine.
Mainly, Sarah Ready is a trope wizard, writing a fun Magical Realism Contemporary Romance. But I also liked the journey the characters took through this book, especially Serena.
Interestingly, I may consider reading Ready's next book physically. The audiobook was great, but it seemed that this book has some graphic elements described in the audio that may have felt more interesting and seamless in print.
This one was super fun and I enjoyed listening to it on audio! The narrators did a fantastic job and made the book an even better experience.
in Switched, we follow Serena and Henry who are our two main characters. Serena doesn't believe in love, or at least she doesn't want to fall in love because she believes she'll lose herself if she does. Her main love in her life is her job and science. Henry is the opposite. He loves his job too, but he is ready to find someone and fall in love with them. When they meet, they have instant chemistry and have a whirlwind of a night together. But obviously, Serena doesn't want to fall in love so she calls it off. Something happens later on and they end up switching bodies and have to figure out how to switch back.
There are so many things I loved about this book! It was engaging, very readable, and funny! The science was explained very well and at times I could have sworn I was reading an Ali Hazelwood book. Serena and Henry had chemistry and I loved reading along as their relationship developed. When they switched bodies, I loved the little quirks about how all that worked, so although body switching has been done before, it set this story apart from the rest. I loved the forced proximity trope & the he falls first trope as well!!
A couple things that didn't work for me: I didn't quite believe ( or at least was frustrated by) Serena's reason for not wanting to fall in love. I understood where she was coming from but the reason was explained in better detail so late into the book that I just didn't buy it. Also the ending was a little too sickly sweet for my liking, but others may not think so!
Overall I really enjoyed my time reading this book. It's definitely something I would buy myself or a friend. If you're a fan of Ali Hazelwood's stem books you may enjoy this too! I recommend the audiobook as it has a male and female narrator and they did such a great job.
Also want to note that this is the second book in an interconnected series. I didn't read the first book but had no problem following/understanding everything that went on in this book so I'd say reading the first is not an absolute requirement.
Serena is me. I am Serena. I’ve never read a FMC that was so against love. And I mean really against it. Even when she knew she was in love she still didn’t want to let her heart go. It was frustrating by the end, which made me frustrated with myself cause am I like that??? Oh god... 🫠
I love a good “love at first sight” trope mixed with the “holy hell we’re so opposite we’d never work out” trope. Making them switch bodies was perfect. Considering I have such a fascination with space I was hooked at their professions. Any space talk had me geeking.
These two and their banter was top notch. And after a few of Sarah’s book under me I now know there’s always going to be a part that hits close to home. A bitch may have teared up at one part. 😢
I love when I’m introduced to a new author that I automatically connect with. After listening to this book (thanks NetGalley), I’m making my way through the Sarah Ready universe - currently 4 books deep now. Can’t stop won’t stop.
I received an audio arc through NetGalley and the author Sarah Ready, thank you!
Switched is the second book in the Ghosted series. It can be read as a standalone, but it’s better to read Ghosted first so you get to know some of the characters, including Serena, the main character.
Switched is about Serena, the sex-loving, Trekkie, science genius best friend of Jillian from Ghosted. Serena lives in Geneva with her cat and is happily single until she meets Henry who changes everything, except they work together and Serena is not okay with that. Somehow, through science or magic, they switch bodies and have to help eachother not only switch back, but run their lives.
I thought this book was really cute. Serena is pretty great. She knows who she is and what she wants and isn’t afraid to go for it.
I love her relationship with her best friend Jillian, and it was fun to hear little posters about Jillian and Daniel.
This was a very good second book to the series but not quite as good as the first. I am excited to read the third when it comes out, Fated.
Switched by Sarah Ready is an absolute gem in the world of contemporary romance, and the audiobook version takes the experience to a whole new level. From start to finish, Ready’s captivating storytelling paired with the exceptional narration brings the characters to life in a way that’s truly unforgettable. Each character is brought to life with depth and authenticity, thanks to the talented narrator who effortlessly embodies their personalities.Every character feels real and relatable, making it easy for listeners to become fully immersed in their journey.Ready’s skillful writing shines through in every scene, seamlessly weaving together humor, heart, and steamy romance. The chemistry between the characters crackles with electricity, keeping listeners on the edge of their seats as they root for the unlikely couple to find their happily ever after. What truly sets Switched apart is its unique premise that adds an extra layer of intrigue to the romance. The idea of two strangers swapping lives may seem far-fetched, but Ready executes it with such finesse that it feels entirely plausible. As the characters navigate the ups and downs of their switched lives, listeners are treated to a rollercoaster ride of emotions that will leave them laughing, crying, and swooning in equal measure.
Beyond the romance, it also delves into deeper themes of self-discovery, forgiveness, and the power of love to heal old wounds. Through the characters’ journeys of personal growth and transformation, listeners are reminded that it’s never too late to change course and pursue the happiness they deserve. In addition to the captivating story and expert narration, the audiobook production itself is top-notch, with crisp sound quality and seamless transitions that enhance the listening experience. Whether you’re a longtime fan of romance novels or new to the genre, Switched is sure to delight and captivate audiences of all ages. It is a must-listen for anyone in search of a heartwarming romance that will leave them smiling long after the final chapter. With its charming characters, witty dialogue, and irresistible charm, this audiobook is guaranteed to steal your heart from the very first chapter. Don’t miss out on this enchanting tale of love, laughter, and second chances.
'Switched' by Sarah Ready is a great book if you like some fun Freaky Friday vibes with a sci-fi twist.
This was a fun idea and I was nervous about how it would play out but I was pleasantly surprised! Henry and Serena meet one night and it’s love at first sight… kinda. Serena is very anti love and focused on her job, which it turns out Henry is about to be her boss. Two years later they are at work late one night where something magical happens, they switch bodies.
Besides that, nothing too crazy or magical happens. We follow the two as they navigate having to live each others life and interact with their family. And of course, fall in love.
With such a silly concept it maybe shouldn’t be a surprise that this wasn’t very deep. There were a lot of side characters thrown in but didn’t feel like we really got to know any of them except maybe Serena’s mom. We also missed two years from when they met to when they switched that we didn’t really learn how they interacted in that time. Some areas could have definitely been explored more to make this more of a meaningful story. Good if you are looking for a lighthearted mindless read!
This was my first book by the author and I quite enjoyed myself! The story was oh so sweet, with some hilarious moments that had me LOL. I listened to the audiobook thanks to NetGalley and it was the most entertaining read. I also really loved the narrator, who I knew from other romances, so that was a definite plus for me. I would highly recommend to give this book a try!
Sparks flew (literally) between the two main characters. I found myself laughing so many times. Serena and Henry are so opposite, yet there is so much chemistry. If you're a fan of Freaky Friday, you'll like the premise of this book, too. I give this rom-com a 4 out of 5.
This started out really fun and cute. Serena and Henry are opposites in almost every way but they both like physics and work together. They end up switched into each other's bodies and spend the rest of the book getting to know more about each other's lives and families both in fun times and more serious ones.
This book wasn't what I expected. It was romantic but I thought Henry deserved better than Serena.
The message for most of the book is that being a wife and mom isn’t good enough and means losing yourself, but does change at the end.
There are many references to sex, crude comments, and some open door scenes.
I don’t really believe in love at first sight, or fate, and it seems like Serena Otaki doesn’t either, but this book has definitely pushed me to rethink. I loved the sassy, strong willed, smart female lead!
This book was a super fun read. I listened to it on Audio, and the narrator was sassy and energetic, which really adds to the story since it is told in first person. I also really connected the female lead, who has doubts about love and slowly learns what truly matters to her in life. I think it introduces an important aspect of learning that our dreams and motivations can change over time and that’s okay. The romance was a nice slow burn and the spice was pretty mild. It was a great book all around, and I can’t wait to see what comes next from this series.
The beginning of audiobook was a little fast for a first time listen. This is one I will need to read the book first and then I’ll enjoy the audiobook when I’m looking for a reread. Otherwise it was a fun story and another great book by this author.
An extremely unique and interesting concept, Switched started strong as my first foray into a lovers switch bodies romance.
I appreciated the author’s commitment to science and vivid descriptions of the environment and culture.
However, I did struggle with a few things: the prose sometimes stagnated the story and I felt myself itching to push ahead to the dialogue. A moment like waiting for the protagonists to find each other earlier in the book felt arbitrarily prolonged.
Secondly, I did personally find it awkward the way they were almost attracted to themselves as they began romantically engaging in their swapped forms. I wasn’t totally sold on the idea that they were growing attracted to each other’s inner selves.
I also had to do a bit of puzzle work to understand why they had switched bodies and had some of their own thoughts while being able to pull at random memories of the body. It made it seem more complicated than needed.
Other than that, I thought it was generally interesting and enjoyable! Loved that it was set at WHO!
The story was one that will spread joy, laughter and of course tears. This is books two, however I hadn’t read book one thinking it was a standalone. However, this didn’t impact my understanding or enjoyment of the story at all. I’m not planning to read book one! Even if there were a few spoiled in this one.
I thought this was a very fun read. I really liked the science aspect of the story and the writing style felt perfect for the character. The footnotes made it extra fun and different.
I haven't read the first book in this series (this was my first Sarah Ready book) and it wasn't something I felt like I needed to read and enjoy this book. However you do get to meet the couple from the previous book and I am interested in reading their story now.
I thought that Kelsey Navarro Foster did a great job with the narration of the book. (James Anderson Foster only had one chapter.)
Thank you to Netgalley and W.W. Crown an Imprint of Swift & Lewis Publishing LLC for the opportunity to listen to this book.
I was excited to listen to Switched by Sarah Ready. I had read the first one in the series Ghosted and enjoyed that as well. If you had asked a few years ago if I enjoyed books with supernatural aspects to them, I probably would have told you no. I would have been wrong and missed out on some books that I love.
This book has the fake dating troupe, which is my favorite, so I was pleasantly surprised when that came up. I go in blind to books, so had no idea. I may have squealed when I got to that part because I love it so much!
Read this one if you enjoy:
~Fake Dating
~Opposites Attract
~Supernatural aspects
Switched tells the story of Serena, a physicist who is obsessed about her career and less committed to non-work things. When she meets handsome Brit, Henry, at a pub (in a rather compromising situation), they hit it off, much to Serena's dismay as she then finds out he's her new...boss?! However, where sparks fly and particles collide, bodies switch and things get...interesting.
I devoured the audiobook version of this book. The narrator did a spot-on version of accents. When the FMC broke the fourth wall, it was interesting in this medium, as if we (readers) were another dimension.
Serena tended to be in her head a lot, which I feel the audiobook version may have been optimal here. If I were to read it, I would likely lose interest in those moments (of which there were many). Serena was a bit flighty to Henry's fastidiousness - very much an 'opposites attract' situation. I was lost a bit with the insta-love trope, admittedly not a favorite of mine, since I felt it seemed a bit much for their situation.
All that said, I found Switched to be an enjoyable story and look forward to more from this author.
Special thanks to W.W. Crown and NetGalley for the ARC. All thoughts in this review are honest and my own.
4.5 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley and W.W. Crown for providing an advanced copy of the audiobook to listen to and review.
About the book itself:
I loved this one. I've read through a few negative reviews and I understand how some people might find the premise or the fourth wall breaks strange, but I think it absolutely worked within the context of the story and was written incredibly well. This was just a campy, delightful time that I absolutely enjoyed.
Serena and her boss Henry do not get along, but when they switch bodies, they have to learn to understand each other and work together.
This book was ridiculous, hilarious, and heartwarming.
Normally with audiobooks I finish them over the course of a long time, listening only when I'm cooking or doing chores. With this audiobook, I could not put it down. I finished it in 2 days because I could not stop with this story!
About the audiobook adaptation:
The audiobook was very well done. I haven't seen the physical/digital copy, but based on some parts of the book I'm assuming that there were a few graphs/diagrams, which are always tricky to adapt. The visual aspects of the story were narrated seamlessly and I was left with exactly what the diagram was supposed to convey. I don't feel like I missed out on anything with the audiobook.
While this is an interconnected standalone series, I don't feel like I was missing anything by jumping to book 2. However, I had such a fabulous time that I will almost certainly be reading the other books in the series.
P.S. Her cat is named James Tiberius Purrk. I mean, come on. That's the best cat name ever.
I love the switch plot of this book. It brings me back to childhood and seeing the Parent Trap. I love that this book was about two people who needed to switch to better understand each other. I love romances and stories of love.
Thank you NetGalley for granting me access to this audiobook!
4.0⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
1 🌶️
This book was so cute! I haven’t read the first in the series but I will be going back and doing that after having such a good time reading this one!
Thoughts:
No underwear WITH JEANS at 26 years old?? 😅😂
I love a good Freaky Friday switch and I thought the relationship between Serena and Henry was great. I really liked their development and their connection felt genuine to me!
Small things I wasn’t crazy about: There was a bit of instalove/love at first sight at the beginning and the FMC did fall into the archetype of the bimbo genius, which I’m not a huge fan of, but it was more minimal than I’ve seen in similar books.
There were so many moments I was kicking my feet and giggling. The narrator did a great job and didn’t make the FMC sound overly quirky. I actually preferred her impression of Henry over the male narrator that came in at the end.
Overall this was a really enjoyable lighthearted read and the freaky Friday scenario was so fun.
I will definitely be checking out the rest of this series!