Our latest book club pick was The Coach Trip by Jo Lyons. It’s a light-hearted, feel‑good rom‑com centred around Nell, whose life goes from shaky to shambolic in record time.
Nell is passed over for a long-held promotion. That’s bad enough. But when it goes to Ava, her younger, prettier, more popular but highly inexperienced sister, it’s like being stabbed in the back. And added to that, Nell then loses her job and boyfriend. It’s enough to push anyone over the edge.
What is The Coach Trip about?
Reeling from humiliation, frustration and rage (why does their mother’s favourite, Ava always gets such an easy ride in life), Nell frantically packs a bag and jumps on a plane to escape. She books herself onto the Platinum Triple Worry Plus retreat in Spain. On the edge of a meltdown Nell desperately hopes the green tea, kale smoothies and Pilates detox will solve all her problems.
But things get complicated when she tells an outright lie and is overheard by hunky Oliver. This “well‑intentioned muscle‑mountain” is determined to hold her to account. The more he steers her towards honesty, the more she digs her heels in and refuses to accept his help. Even if he is drop-dead gorgeous. And then it gets even worse. Her Instagram-obsessed sister is heading to Spain to save the day.
What was our verdict?
There are no major twists or surprising turns here. The Coach Trip by Jo Lyons is a zany rom‑com with all the familiar beats: misunderstandings, personal chaos, reluctant attraction and a predictable but satisfying resolution. However, predictable doesn’t mean unenjoyable.
As a book club, rom-coms aren’t usually our go to genre. We’re more your crime thrillers or murder mysteries (but that’s the beauty of book clubs after all, you read outside your comfort zone). The Coach Trip is a whacky rom‑com through and through and we all agreed that Jo Lyons writes this genre exceptionally well. Her tone is warm, her pacing easy, and she delivers humour that hits the mark.
Overall, it’s an easy, enjoyable read – perfect for when you want something fun, quick, and comforting.
Who will enjoy it?
The Coach Trip is ideal for readers who enjoy:
- Funny, feel‑good modern rom‑coms
- Humour and light escapism
- Sunny settings and an uncomplicated romance
If you’re a fan of Sophie Kinsella, this will sit very nicely on your reading pile.
In conclusion, The Coach Trip by Jo Lyons is a well‑written, sunny, funny rom‑com that will delight anyone looking for a light and comforting escape. If this is your genre we think you’ll love it.