Hopeless Romantics

One decade, four friends—and infinite missed chances at love… A heartfelt, tender, and gorgeously written romance from international bestseller Mhairi McFarlane.

Writer Tess has always been accused of being overly romantic by her best friend Carys.

When Tess and Carys get the Caledonian Sleeper train to a friend’s wedding in Scotland, they hit it off with Spencer, a cheerful stranger, and Ryan, his more reserved wingman. The outgoing Carys is all-in over their shared bottle of warm champagne and four plastic glasses, while Tess holds back. Yet there’s a jolt of attraction between her and Ryan that Tess can’t ignore – a sense of recognition that feels real.

As the weekend unfolds, Tess and Ryan unlock an instant shared wavelength that has Tess asking herself; how do you know when it’s your life-changing moment? When their trip is upended by a shocking twist, everyone and everything is changed forever.

Over the decade that follows, Tess and Ryan’s paths cross again, though the stars never quite align. From big birthdays to more weddings, their lives continue to intertwine. But will the right moment for Tess and Ryan ever arrive?

Funny, poignant, and romantic, this is a love story of friendship, missed chances, and soulmates.

Tropes

• Right person, wrong time

• Multiple Timelines

• Second Chance

• Slow Burn

• Friends to Lovers