Beach Rivals by Georgie Tilney

5 Stars Jul 20, 2023

My review

5/5 stars

Two people on opposite sides of the behavioural spectrum (one uptight and by-the-book, one flaky and struggling to find direction in life), a beach in Bali, a bookshop in need of salvation. Three big ticks on my list of things I love in books.

Claire was an endearing character, with a zest for life that no challenge seems to have dampened (even if it took her a while to find it). Jack was frosty, but never annoying - it was obvious that his intentions were good, so he was always likeable. Their relationship was a lovely slow-burn that kept a believable and charming pace right up the end (the last chapter or two felt slightly rushed).

I particularly enjoyed the additional relationships within the story. Adam and Celestina were wonderful additions, bringing fullness and emotion to a light and fun story. Ben and Lina gave a deeper sense of connection to Claire and Jack, as well as bringing extra humour.

The exploration of individuality within the sphere of connection was beautifully written, and gave the story a deeper meaning than I was expecting it to have. This wasn't a simple story about two people finding love on a beach, it was also about two people finding out who they could be in their lives, without any pressure from anyone else.

For what appears to be this author's debut novel, I found it to be outstanding and thoroughly enjoyed reading it.

* I received an advanced copy of this book for free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Book blurb

One bookshop in paradise. Two bitter rivals. A whole summer to get through...

Clare thought that by now she would have her life figured out. Instead, she's living with her parents, working a job she hates and has absolutely no idea what she wants to do with the rest of her life.

When she sees a viral job advert for a three-month bookseller position on a Bali beach, she jumps at the chance. But it's not until she arrives in Bali that Clare realises she won't be working in the bookshop alone.

Instead she's sharing the bookshop - and a flat - with a handsome but infuriating American man. Jack is Clare's opposite in almost every way, and it's not long before they're driving each other crazy. But fighting with Jack is also the most fun Clare's had in years, and it's only a matter of time before their relationship turns less than professional...