The Cruise Paperback – November 1, 2023

The British are not as stuffy as I thought! The author's meticulous character development quickly piqued my interest and did not disappoint. The story lines were relatable, with a few interesting surprises. More importantly than finding love, the main characters found out more about themselves.

There was some romance but mostly there was comedy. I love the humor. It really makes me feel better about everything. Even the most jaded will enjoy this series. There is some language but mostly it is just a very funny nook.

I've been on 20+ cruises, mostly in the Caribbean, and every port mentioned in the book but St. Vincent. I'm ready to take my next adventure. The story was good. The characters very believable. I must admit I laughed outloud and she'd a few tears. Being American, I had to guess at some of the English terms. (I've started to pass on books setting out of country). Glad I read this one. I did have trouble keeping Anne and Kath apart. I don't believe the girls were described as ethnicity. I see everyone white, but believe Jane may be Afro. If you are hesitating....read the book. If you've never been on a cruise, you'll want to go when you are done reading.

Good story and decent development of the characters but not enough development of the Anne and Dickey relationshipAlso moved a little too slowLoved the island scenes and activities that Jane and Selwyn participated in

A very easy, delightful read. My husband and I are avid cruisers, especially in the Caribbean. Just like the characters, I am in my mid-60s. I am happily married so I have a wonderful cruise companion to share my adventures with. On our cruises, we have met women who could be the ones that the author used to base her characters on. I also loved that the author touched on the many places we have visited—Barbados (twice); St. Maarten (twice) and Maho beach with planes landing overhead; Martinique; Antiqua—Shirley Heights; Nelson’s Dockyard; Runaway Beach; St. Kitts. And although their cruise couldn’t stop there—Guadeloupe. And to quote “Memories make the best souvenirs”.

Couldn’t put it down! Loved the characters and their story. I wanted to be friends with these 3 friends and watch them develop into their own identities of their very best. Great story telling and I especially felt like I was on a cruise. Thank you Caroline.

I really enjoyed this book. The wonderful friendship of the 3 lead characters. The fun they had on the cruise and the relationships developed with the other passengers on the ship. The surprising ending was, in my opinion, a bit unexpected. All in all a good book for girl friends.

Fun read of 3 long term friends in their 60s venturing out for a cruise - one recently divorced, one recently widowed, one never married and obese. Some reviewers found specifics of cruise offerings on and off the ship off putting - I did not. Actually brought back enjoyable memories of cruises I’ve taken. Also makes one pause to note the venerability faced with aging and the possibility of being influenced by those whose intentions are to deceive for self profit.

Rating 4.5 stars“The Cruise” by Caroline James. What can I say other than I really enjoyed it and read in one day. Who doesn’t want to escape on a cruise with a couple of old friends.When I read the blurb about 3 women in their 60s setting off on a cruise, I knew I had to read this book, especially as I’m almost there myself. The Cruise is the first book I have read by Caroline James and I can definitely say it won’t be my last.Swapping Christmas turkeys and BBC reruns for crystal waters, white sandy beaches and smooth golden rum, Anne, Jane and Kath throw caution (and tradition) to the wind as they set sail on a luxury two-week Christmas cruise around the Caribbean.Will the three friends find the comfort and joy they seek aboard the Diamond Star?I found the characters to be well developed, and multi-dimensional. It’s about being true to yourself, losing you insecurities and making new friends along the way, what a delightful read.I will definitely read other books by this author.I requested and received an advance reader copy of this book from One More Chapter and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Have since bought a copy

Nice entertaining light read

Not in the least funny or interesting....bin!

As I read this book, it occurs to me that the author has never been on a cruise and she has no idea what it’s like to board a cruise in Bridgetown, Barbados. I prefer accurate details. And he characters…so cardboard. Will I finish it? Probably not.

I enjoyed this book, it was amusing yet had serious moments, especially when mentioning the hang ups of the overweight friend, so pleased she overcame them.