There are many things I love about The Flat Share and Beth O’Leary’s narrative style. Many things that I cannot help but laugh at (and cry at) and overall simply appreciate when it comes to good writing. Let me show you some of my favourite details.

Let’s start with one very important wonderful detail – the representation of bigger bodies in romance. Now I know Tiffy isn’t described as a ‘s description, at least how I remember it, was closer to a slightly chubby eccentric woman and that the discourse surrounding her size was largely from Leon’s girlfriend who was making a point as to how fat she looks to convince herself that Tiffy isn’t a threat. What was truly great about it is that she was. I love Tiffy – she sounds like the best flatmate to have. She’s creative and cute and she bakes and she’s so friendly. She’s like a summer’s day – truly the sweetest and the loveliest person.

The whole bed sharing situation was so funny to me and painstakingly accurate to the times as the housing crisis continues to loom over many of us. What’s even better is the absolutely adorable post-it note letter situation that arises due to their different schedules and sleep times. I’m a sucker for strangers becoming friends before they become lovers because, to me at least, the thought of getting to know someone as a person before you get to know them in a romantic sense makes the connection feel more genuine and real. These post-it notes are the modern day version of writing letter so I was all for it.

One thing that I really think was done well throughout this book was the ex-boyfriend plot line. Not only do we have a history that starts to get introduced via the post-its, but the man himself appears and his very way of being was at such odds with Leon. Everything about the guy made me want to punch him (I think that’s become a measure of how good I think the rom-com books I read these days are) and the climax truly had me flabbergasted at the audacity of some people. the support network around Tiffy is exactly what I wanted for her and I’m so glad that people understood without her having to explain what was going on because I bet being in that situation makes talking this out extremely difficult.

Hands down a great rom-com and a must read for fans of the genre. The Flat Share is fresh, funny and full of drama, perfect for an afternoon read.