LOVE IN LOCKDOWN

SYNOPSIS

Do you believe in love before first sight?

Lockdown is putting Sophia’s life on pause – just as she planned to put herself out there and meet someone. When the first clap for the keyworkers rings out around her courtyard, she’s moved to tears for all kinds of reasons.

Jack is used to living life to the fullest. He’s going stir-crazy after just days isolating. Until the night he hears a woman crying from the balcony under his. He strikes up a conversation with the stranger and puts a smile on her face.

Soon their balcony meetings are the highlight of Jack and Sophia’s days. But even as they grow closer together, they’re always kept apart.

Can they fall in love during a lockdown?

Title: Love in lockdown

Author: Chloe James

Publisher: Avon Books UK

Publication date: November 23, 2020

REVIEW

RATING:  ⭐⭐⭐⭐

When I first heard about this book I thought "Uh, uh, no way I'm reading this. Too soon. Who would want to read a book about the lockdown when the second one is waving at us on the horizon?" Apparently, I did. After reading some good reviews I decided to give it a chance and I'm so glad I did. What a lovely shot of optimism in these trying times!

I must be thankful lockdown was not too hard for me. I, like a household plant, am an indoors species and lockdown is my natural habitat. Give me food and a book and I'm happy! However, I feel for all those people who had such a hard time out of it.

"Love in lockdown" portrayed the spirit of the lockdown so well I could see myself reflected in so many of the situations the characters were going through. It was curious to check how, even living in a different country, we all went through the same things like the loo paper, yeast and flour shortage or the clapping for the key workers (here in Spain it was daily for three months!).

It was amazing seeing these characters create such a tight-knit community, helping each other even though they didn't know each other at all. This sense of community that brought out the best in people was so uplifting to read about (sadly, time proved that it was all a mirage, cause as soon as we were let out of our homes it all went downhill fast again, but that's an issue for another forum).

Like Troy and Gabriela...

...but not for long.

Jack and Sophia were both so cute. I couldn't wait for restrictions to be lifted so they could meet face to face. I know their relationship was a bit too sweet and perfect, but it was just what the doctor ordered right now!

The cast of secondary characters was an eclectic and lovable one, but my favorite was Bertie (and Tilly). The way he dealt with his loneliness awoke so much tenderness in me and was a perfect example of how much harder this has been for the elderly.

There were also some hilarious moments, like the wedding chapter, that had me crying with laughter.

Uplifting and delightful read that showed how although we may feel isolated at times, we are not alone.

Thanks to NetGalley and Avon Books UK for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.