The Stopover by T. L. Swan

If you’re looking for witty banter, a constant push and pull, and chemistry that jumps off the page… this is your next read. It’s not your book if you’re looking for deep connection, character arc, or logic, though.

When upgraded to first class on her flight from London to New York, Emily Foster meets her sexual match, Jim. The fun begins when Emily wants to watch Magic Mike XXL while Jim watches Lincoln. A series of playful exchanges and lots of champagne leads to a one-night stand where Emily joins the “Miles High Club.” They have a great time, then go their separate ways without exchanging names.

A year later, Emily lands her dream job at Miles Media—only to discover that Jim is actually Jameson Miles, the CEO. The attraction is palpable. Jameson wants to take her out; Emily has a boyfriend and doesn’t want to risk her job… and so the fun begins.

What worked for me: I personally enjoyed the lighthearted playfulness. Even though Jameson Miles is a hot CEO with the whole alpha-male thing going on, Emily doesn’t take any crap from him. She gives back just as hard—tit-for-tat. I love when a woman knows she’s strong and independent, and she doesn’t need to be in a position of power to prove her worth.

What didn’t work: The third-act breakup. It felt forced, like it only happened to push the story forward. Also, Emily’s character arc shifted—this strong, confident woman suddenly bends over backward again and again. She’s mistreated by several people, yet she still runs back to Jameson. It just didn’t feel like the same character.

Many readers may not enjoy the back-and-forth between the two, but I enjoyed it thoroughly. The banter was perfect. The third act, though, took a bit of the fun out of the story.

Genre – Rom-Com

Spice Level – 4/5

Story – 3.5/5