#BookReview of #TheHoneymoonAffair by @sheilaoflanagan

‘The irresistible, utterly satisfying new contemporary novel from beloved bestseller, Sheila O’Flanagan’
– The Honeymoon Affair

[ About The Honeymoon Affair ]

Izzy is in the Caribbean on the honeymoon-that-isn’t after her fiancé broke her heart. She’s not looking for someone new. But when she meets Charles Miller, a successful writer holidaying alone, the electricity is undeniable. And what does she have to lose?

In Ireland, Charles’s ex-wife and agent Ariel flits from party to party, glamorous and poised. She’s in constant contact with Charles. They’re very close. Ariel wonders if they should get back together. She’s an independent woman, but she liked being part of a power couple. And she’s sure she only has to say, and they’ll pick up where they left off.

No matter how in control of life you think you are, it can shock and surprise you. As Izzy, Ariel and Charles are about to find out . . .

[ My Review ]

The Honeymoon Affair by Sheila O’Flanagan published May 9th with Headline and is described as ‘a compelling and thought-provoking story about two strong women, one complicated man, and the secrets and dreams that draw them together – with explosive consequences . . .‘

Sheila O’Flanagan has written over 30 bestselling books, such is the demand for the stories she tells, and rightly so. Reading one of her books is like being reacquainted with an old friend. There is a comfort in knowing that she will not lead you astray, always taking her captivated fans on a warm-hearted and empathetic journey.

In The Honeymoon Affair, we get a sneak peek into the world of publishing, with Ariel Barrett and her Booker Prize winning soon-to-be-ex-husband, Charles Miller, alongside that of customs officer Izzy (Iseult) O’Connor. Izzy is suffering from a shattered heart, after her engagement was broken off by her fiancé Steve shortly before they were due to tie the knot. They were planning on honeymooning on a luxury Caribbean resort and, as the holiday was paid for, it was decided that Izzy would go with her cousin, and best friend, Celeste. Izzy knew that she would have emotional moments on this trip but there was no way she was going to let it go to waste so she packed her bags and held back the tears. On arrival it’s clear to both Celeste and Izzy that the setting is very romantic, with stunning accommodation and scenery, but Izzy isn’t looking for romance and is determined to just relax, sunbathe and read the latest crime fiction novel from her favourite author.

Charles Miller is a renowned literary author who is suffering from writer’s block. His reputation puts a big pressure on him and he is struggling to get his writing mojo back, with a deadline looming. A trip to the Caribbean seems like the perfect solution. He can isolate himself from his day-to-day demands and focus on the peace and quiet of the surrounding landscape.

Ariel Barrett is a high-flying agent with a top-class reputation for discovering new authors. Her success rate is well known across the industry and for awhile both her personal and private life were exactly where she wanted them to be. Ariel had been Charles’ agent from the launch of his career and over time their relationship developed and boundaries were blurred. They married but their lives were so very much caught up in the literary world, they allowed little time to enhance and protect their relationship outside of work. Having parted company, on one level, they felt that their working relationship could and should remain the same. Charles and Ariel were a recognisable force in the industry so both felt no need to fix what they clearly felt wasn’t broken.

When all three become inextricably linked, an inescapable clash occurs, leading them all to examine their lives. Izzy, Charles and Ariel are wonderfully cast characters. Having a life mapped out in a certain manner can seem like a sensible idea but obstacles are unavoidable and crinkles are inevitable. As each attempts to navigate their way in this new world, we journey with them through the ups and downs. Sheila O’Flanagan uses wonderful dialogue and humour which keeps the story flowing at a steady speed. There are times our allegiances shift from one to the other but only in a superficial way as they are all portrayed as so very human and authentic in their actions. Izzy is a grounding force throughout, surprising herself when things get a little complicated. As a customs officer, she is well used to dealing with crises and pressure. She is resilient and strong allowing her to clear a path and see the wood from the trees when others are bogged down.

The Honeymoon Affair is a joy to read. It is a novel packed with warmth and authentic characters who all come alive as the story unfolds. If you are looking for a novel that will provide you with a sense of escapism and bring you a little window of joyful pleasure, then The Honeymoon Affair is one I recommend.

_{* Thank you to Plunkett PR for my copy of The Honeymoon Affair in exchange for my honest review}

[ Bio ]

Sheila O’Flanagan is the author of over 30 bestselling books, including What Eden Did Next, Three Weddings and a Proposal, The Women Who Ran Away, Her Husband’s Mistake, The Hideawayand The Missing Wife.

She lives in Dublin with her husband.
Website ~  http://www.sheilaoflanagan.com 
X ~ @sheilaoflanagan