Total Dreamboat

There’s no second book slump for Doyle (Just Some Stupid Love Story) in this fun beach read. Recently dumped Hope Lanover is persuaded to accompany her best friend, lifestyle influencer Lauren, on a Caribbean cruise, despite not being a “cruise person.” British restaurant owner Felix Segrave is coerced onto the same boat by his wealthy family, though the break from his routine represents a threat to his sobriety. When Felix and Hope meet at the buffet, sparks fly. Together, they embrace cruising culture, enjoying moonlit walks, performances by Elvis impersonators, and island excursions. Unfortunately, their budding romance is interrupted by Hope’s ex-boyfriend and a typical rom-com misunderstanding about intentions that leads to a major fight. With tempers flaring, Hope and Felix can’t even avoid each other as they watch their ship depart port without them, leaving them stranded in the Bahamas without their identification, working phones, or any of their luggage and forced to rely on one another. The banter is clever, the setting gorgeous, and the quirky supporting cast entertains. Readers will be swept away. (June)