Jo Lovett’s ‘The House Swap’ follows Cassie and James as their lives begin to entangle when they spontaneously swap houses, with Cassie moving to London to research her new book, and James to the little island not far from Boston to escape his ex.

While in many ways, ‘The House Swap’ is an uplifting romance offering a few hours of pure escapism, it also deals with some heavier topics, such as grief and miscarriage. For Cassie, the trip to London also means trying the IVF round. And for James, moving away from the rush and business of a big city means finally coming to terms with painful memories.

I found the book easy and a little predictable, but it was a nice evening read. I think the favourite parts of ‘The House Swap’ for me were the neighbours in London and the island’s community. In both cases, they brought so much joy to the story!

The premise of ‘The House Swap’ reminded me a little of the film with Jude Law, ‘The Holiday’ as well as the book by Jenny Colgan, ‘Five Hundred Miles From You’, so if you have enjoyed those, ‘The House Swap’ may appeal to you too.

Honestly, I loved this book. I read it all in one sitting, I could not put it down. The plot was interesting and fun. The characters are so relatable and lovable. I felt everything they were feeling, it was so easy to relate and connect with the characters. The writing was so amazing you really do feel everything. The book was just so sweet and wholesome I truly did love it and would recommend it to anyone.

Also, as a side note, as a Jordanian-American, it was wonderful to see some representation in a book. Seeing the word mensaf in a book really was something I never thought I would see and it was so lovely to see it.

He needs an escape. She needs an adventure. So why not swap lives?

Jo Lovett’s “The House Swap,” is a funny and feel-good romance.

James Grey, 35 years old, single and career focussed, needs to get out of London. NOW. He found someone on the SwapBnB site willing to accommodate his arrival within the week, he packed up his home, put stuff in storage and arranged for the cleaners to continue their contract in his absence. He’s a loner and wishes people wouldn’t try to be friendly. He doesn’t even know his neighbours.

Cassie, a single 37-year-old author is looking for a change of scenery while she writes the next few books in her MacDuff Twins series. Cassie lives on Hawk Egg Island in Maine and enjoys her private beach, panoramic sea and headland views. She dreams of filling her large home with children and a husband but hasn’t found Mr. Right yet. She stocks up her fridge, cupboards and freezer, leaves her bedrooms and bathrooms well appointed and pens lengthy notes for James. Cassie is a social person and vibrant in every way.

You’ll love this near-enemies to lovers tale and, although the ending is predictable, Lovett makes sure you’ll enjoy the journey. I found myself wanting to swat James as he was so very, very awkward. Interestingly enough, the house swap was just what they both needed. Sometimes we just need a change of scenery to make us appreciate what we have.

Publishes April 19, 2021.

Thanks to Jo Lovett, Bookouture and NetGalley for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review.