The Wake-Up Call is a romantic comedy novel by Beth O’Leary.
The novel tells the story of two sworn enemies, Izzy and Lucas, who are forced to work together at a failing hotel. As they try to save the hotel from closure, their rivalry slowly turns into something more complicated.
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Book Blurb
Welcome to Forest Manor Hotel, where the staff and guests are one happy family. Except for Izzy and Lucas – bitter rivals banned from working the same shift, for everyone’s sake.
After struggling for years, the hotel may soon have to close its doors forever. But when Izzy returns a guest’s lost wedding ring, the reward convinces management this might fix everything. With four rings still sitting in lost property, Izzy and Lucas are forced to work together to try to save the day.
But as their rivalry becomes something much more complicated, Izzy and Lucas start to wonder if there’s more at stake here than the hotel’s future . . .
The Wake-Up Call Review: My Opinion
The Wake-Up Call was such an enjoyable read by Beth O’Leary. I am a fan of the enemies-to-lovers trope, and this one hit the right notes, even if it didn’t quite have the depth of some of her other books (such as The Switch).
One of my favourite things about the book was the extended cast of characters. With the hotel setting, you get a fun, eclectic bunch, which kept things lively. It was also great to see the Forest Manor Hotel come to life through its quirky staff and guests.
Izzy and Lucas were both fantastic leads. I loved Izzy’s adventurous and creative spirit. She’s optimistic and kind-hearted, though perhaps a bit immature at times. Lucas, on the other hand, was the classic brooding love interest, hiding behind his serious, almost robotic facade, even though deep down he’s caring and patient. I enjoyed the chemistry and banter between them as their rivalry developed into something more.
There was a miscommunication element, which usually bugs me in romances, and it was a little frustrating here. Just talk to each other! But I enjoyed the rest of the book enough to look past it.
The Christmassy setting was lovely and added to the charm of the story. While it didn’t dive as deep emotionally as some of O’Leary’s other works, it still delivered a heartwarming, feel-good experience.