While I was hoping for a fun summer adventure full of heartache, healing, and maybe a few heart-eyes in between, Take a Chance on Me is a little lacking (in prose, characterization, development, descriptions, and then some). Evie's a difficult FMC to love right off the bat, since we see her deep in bitter heartache without much context. While Evi's journey is relatable and realistic, it's hard to connect with her emotionally, especially when the story relies a lot on leaving you in the dark, then TELLING you everything via Evie's first-person narration. While I loved the messy relationships and possibility for self-discovery, the execution leaves a bit more work. I did enjoy the focus on deep, important topics (body image, relationships with food, abandonment, not fitting into a family unit, etc.).

After her great heartbreak at the end of last school year, Evie runs away to live the summer with her estranged father in London. While her dad isn't around much, Evie meets cute busker Aiden, who she strikes up a quick friendship with. This novel tackles deep emotional issues and balances it with heartfelt and funny moments. It was a cute novel that moves quickly.

When a video of your ex cheating goes viral what do you do? You run to London for summer or at least that's what Evie does. This rom com is perfect for readers who've ever had to deal with a cheating ex.

In "Take a Chance on Me" by Elizabeth Eulberg. we follow Evie as she flies to England to spend the whole summer with her dad in hopes of out running a dramatic breakup she is leaving behind in America. While on her holiday in England she must face, the relationship-what there is of it-with her dad, the residual feelings she has about the aforementioned dramatic breakup, and new feelings she has for a guy she meets playing guitar on the streets of London. While making friends along the way, Evie spends her summer abroad finding herself.

The relationships Evie has with the people in her life and the people she meets are great and thought out. I love that she makes friends so far away from home. If I were in her position, I would not be able to just drop into a group of friends like that, go her!
I LOVED Poppy, there for a minute she was the reason I was reading. She had such good advice for Evie. Poppy was like the older sister figure Evie needed. I wanted to see more of Poppy but am thankful for what page time she did have.
I wanted to learn more about Adian too, possibly going deeper with him and his life than just the loss of his sister. But this was not Adian's book, it was Evie's, so makes sense. However, being able to see the emails they did send back and forth would have been cute.
I also LOVED every scene where Evie stood up to a bully for someone. It was very satisfying to read.

While this was a cute book, I just did not enjoy the writing overall, it could have been stronger. While Evie had some good lines, for the most part she would annoy me with her attitude. I also went into this book expecting more romance between Evie and Adian. I was intrigued by Adian being a busker, but then most of this book was just about her dad.
This book is perfect for a teen looking for a book that has deep conversations about parental abandonment, disordered eating, and a mild clean romance.

Take a Chance on Me by Elizabeth Eulberg is the kind of book that feels like a spontaneous summer adventure—filled with heartbreak, healing, and just the right amount of swoon.

Evie, our lovable (and recently humiliated) protagonist, escapes to London after a video of her confronting her cheating ex goes viral. As if that weren’t enough drama, she has to stay with the one person she resents the most—her estranged father. But then there’s Aiden, a ridiculously charming British busker who keeps appearing in her path, making it harder for Evie to keep her guard up.

This book gives off major The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight vibes, with its whirlwind romance, deep emotional moments, and an irresistible London backdrop. Eulberg perfectly balances humor, heartache, and hope, making Evie’s journey feel real and relatable. And Aiden? Let’s just say if you love a sweet, musically gifted love interest who sees Evie for who she truly is, he’s going to steal your heart.

Take a Chance on Me is perfect for readers who love stories about self-discovery, messy but meaningful family relationships, and, of course, a romance worth risking it all for. It’s heartfelt, hilarious, and full of those this could only happen in a rom-com moments that make you want to book a one-way ticket to London immediately.

Book Review: A Heartwarming Journey in Elizabeth Eulberg's Latest Novel
Elizabeth Eulberg, the internationally bestselling author of Better Off Friends, triumphantly returns with a captivating love story that beautifully intertwines elements of Once and The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight.
In this enchanting tale, we meet Evie, who finds herself heartbroken and betrayed when a video of her confronting her cheating ex-boyfriend goes viral. Seeking solace, she flees to London for the summer, where she discovers a city filled with charm and adventure. From the iconic double-decker buses to delightful afternoon teas and rich history at every turn, London becomes a backdrop for Evie's healing journey. However, her reunion with her father adds a layer of complexity to her experience.
As Evie navigates the historic streets, fate intervenes, introducing her to Aiden, a charming and talented British busker. Their encounters are filled with chemistry and laughter, and Aiden’s kind nature offers Evie a glimpse of the love and support she’s been longing for. Despite her reservations about opening her heart again, Evie finds herself drawn to Aiden, who treats her with the respect and warmth she deserves.
Eulberg masterfully crafts a narrative that is both hilarious and touching, exploring themes of love, trust, and the struggle to move forward from the past. This unforgettable journey not only highlights the beauty of romance but also the importance of self-discovery and embracing new beginnings.
In A Heartwarming Journey, readers are treated to a delightful blend of humor, romance, and a touch of jetlag that makes for an engaging read. Elizabeth Eulberg's ability to capture the complexities of relationships and the joy of finding love again is truly remarkable. This novel is a must-read for anyone seeking a story that warms the heart and inspires hope for the future.
#netgalley

Inject Elizabeth Eulberg energy directly into my veins, and get me back to England.

After an astounding blow to her personal relationships back in the States, dual citizen Evie runs to spend more than the allotted summer break with her British native father. She vows not to not let anyone in and protect herself, until a handsome British busker comes into her life.

I like how Eulberg goes towards older teens now in her YA (Also see PAST PERFECT LIFE) though sometimes her forays into children's lit sometimes bleed through in how her older characters speak in moments of stress. This book doesn't shy away from heavier topics (dad with possible ED, daddy issues, both of which almost made me put the book down at some points), though Eulberg did her homework.

The storyline with her dad is never really totally resolves in my mind, but I'm also not sure what else she could have done. Overall, I liked it.

Thanks, NetGalley!

A sweet romance set in England with an adorable golden retriever love interest. It's a romance, but delves into deeper issues of grief, eating disorders, and family pressure.

Thanks NetGalley for the ARC!

This was a cute YA read about a girl who's going through a rough breakup and escapes to London to be with her dad for the summer. She meets Aiden, a lovable London boy and the two kick off an adorable connection.

This book was a little too immature for my taste but it wasn't bad. It's definitely something I would have enjoyed as a teen. It's sweet and cute; it gives you all of the cheesy romcom vibes I loved as a teen.

This book was a nice quick read. I love how cute the cover is! It was a cute romcom with empowering messages. I absolutely love Aiden and Evies connection. He’s such a sweet guy! I really liked Evie and I was happy with how the book ended. I think it’s a perfect YA romance book with some relatable issues.

Thank you NetGalley, Elizabeth and Scholastic for the ARC!!

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Publication Date: March 4 2025
#NetGalley #TakeaChanceOnMe

Review by a teen

Elizabeth Eulberg’s Take a Chance on Me explores the struggles to fit in, the desire for connection, and the thrill and pain of love. Through Evie’s journey, Eulberg teaches us to confront our challenges head-on: to face bullies, express love, forgive misunderstandings, and care for those we cherish. Evie learns to break unhealthy cycles by taking brave steps toward change, becoming the bigger person in her relationships; through this, she challenges readers to take a chance on change, just as she did. However, there were certain aspects that I disliked, such as the resolution of all the relationships and particularly Evie and Aiden’s relationship, and all seemed overly convenient. Yet I do like how the author weaves deep themes of depression and the importance of communication in her plot. All in all, I think that this book is very typical, and I am personally not a fan; however, the book will find an audience of young readers looking for something to read.

This book felt like a vacation and a hug all in one!! Evie, our main character, has just had the most dramatic break up ever and decides to spend the summer in London for a fresh start. I absolutely loved following Evie around exploring her new city and of course meeting her love interest was so exciting too! Their love story was so endearing and sweet to read. Thank you so much for the opportunity to read this book!

While this is a lovely "strangers to friends to lovers" rom-com, it's also more. It's an empowering read for those struggling with food issues, major grief and depression, unhealthy family relationships, and romantic betrayal. There's a sassy American heroine and a handsome, musical British sweetheart, trips around London and the UK that will make you want to book a plane ticket, and the lesson that not everyone is as they seem on the surface. Well worth the read with a happy, but realistic, ending.

while i requested this book because of the london setting, I did not expect to fall in love to easily with the characters! everyone deserves love, and when evie finds that in the most unsuspecting person, it was off to the races for any romance reader!

After a viral video of her cheating ex goes viral, teen Evie flies to London to escape it all. Staying with her estranged father, who switches out girls every few weeks, and trying to avoid romance when she keeps running into a cute busker isn’t her original plan, but in the end it turns out to be exactly what she needs.
This book is the epitome of cute YA romance novel. There really aren’t books with simple plot lines and deep emotions like this one written anymore. I loved reading it, and I know that it’s going to be popular among romance readers once it comes out. I love the found family that was written in, as well as fixing familial problems and mental health struggles and loss. It was all written seamlessly into the simple plot lines and honestly was amazing.
Thank you to NetGalley and Scholastic for an eARC of this book!

#TakeaChanceOnMe #NetGalley

First, a nod to the publisher for choosing cover art that is not only attractive but appears to accurately capture the appearance of the two main characters ( Evie and Aiden).

All too often I’ll pick up a book, get invested in the author’s physical description of her characters and do a double take when I glance back at the cover. It’s important- for the outside to match the inside.

The target audience is the teen reader and they need to know fictional characters come in all shapes and sizes. Added bonus is seeing Aiden wearing his beloved sister’s scarf.

Now, the story. So many unexpected layers to it -young love, betrayal, parental abandonment and food issues. Each of these topics the author dealt with kindness. I especially like that the author flipped the script with the last topic as all too often it’s seen as a female problem.

This ARC was provided by the publisher, Scholastic, via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Elizabeth Eulberg’s latest novel is a delightful blend of heartache, healing, and romance—a story that will sweep readers off their feet and onto the charming streets of London. Perfect for fans of Once and The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight, this heartwarming tale follows Evie as she navigates betrayal, complicated family dynamics, and the possibility of a fresh start.

After a viral video of her heartbreak goes public, Evie flees to London for the summer in search of distraction and a little anonymity. What she finds instead is a city full of wonder, double-decker buses, and history—but also the strained presence of her estranged father. Evie’s struggles with trust and vulnerability feel authentic and relatable as she attempts to mend both her heart and her fractured family ties.

Enter Aiden, a charming British busker with an easy smile and a kind soul. Aiden is exactly what Evie doesn’t think she needs—someone who sees her for who she really is and doesn’t treat her as “too much.” Their connection unfolds slowly and sweetly, with Aiden’s humor and warmth offering a refreshing balance to Evie’s emotional journey. The chemistry between them crackles with a mix of flirty banter and sincere moments of vulnerability that make their story deeply satisfying.

What makes this novel shine is Eulberg’s ability to balance humor, romance, and emotional depth. London itself comes alive through Evie’s eyes, acting as the perfect backdrop for a story about finding yourself when everything feels lost. While the romance is undeniably swoon-worthy, the book also dives into themes of forgiveness, self-worth, and learning to embrace life’s unexpected moments.

Elizabeth Eulberg delivers a story that is equal parts hilarious, hopeful, and heartfelt. Readers will root for Evie every step of the way as she learns to let go of her past and open herself up to love, family, and new beginnings. This is the perfect book to curl up with—a captivating escape that leaves you smiling, jetlag not included.

It seemed like a cute read! I wanted to like it, but I wasn't a massive fan of the FMC, and ultimately, I ended up DNFing the book at 20% through. However, just because it wasn't my cup of tea doesn't mean it was a bad book. I just wasn't the ideal audience, most likely.

After a humiliating breakup, Evie flees to London to stay with her dad. While wandering around the city, she meets Aiden, a busker, and they become fast friends. As their relationship begins to develop, Evie’s nervous to open herself up again, especially as she’s also struggling to navigate her relationship with her father.

Eulberg skillfully portrays the complex nature of family relationships and how the path to repairing those relationships isn’t always easy. Evie struggles to connect with her father, as he projects his own unhealthy relationship with food onto her throughout the book. I think it’s really important that she talks about how men can also experience disordered eating and negative body image.

However, I did have some issues with the pacing; their relationship felt a bit rushed. I also thought that the way the teenagers talked and acted seemed significantly younger than they actually were, so I found it challenging to connect with them. At times, Evie’s dramatic reactions felt like that of a pre-teen rather a senior in high school.

Overall, it was a really cute read that I think will be popular with younger reads!

Thank you to Netgalley and Scholastic Inc for an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Thank you to NetGalley, Scholastic, and the author for the eARC!

This book was the perfect light and sweet read. I picked it up for the charming London setting and the cute cover, but it delivered so much more!

The story follows Evie as she escapes to London for the summer after a messy breakup. Navigating her complicated relationship with her dad while exploring the city, she crosses paths with Aiden, a busker with a soulful voice. Their friendship grows into something more, but the heart of the story lies in Evie’s personal growth, her unlikely friendships, and her efforts to reconnect with her father.

I especially loved how the book handled deeper topics, like the complexities of family relationships and the impact of unhealthy expectations. The side characters, particularly Poppy, added so much charm and warmth to the story—she was my favorite!

The romance between Evie and Aiden was sweet and subtle, blending perfectly with the overall themes of healing and self-discovery. This book felt like a cozy, heartfelt hug and left me with a big smile. Highly recommend for fans of light, wholesome reads with meaningful layers! ✨