Writing my debut romance was a huge challenge for many reasons. I had to relearn how to write, as this genre is so different from non-fiction and fantasy. It’s also taken me over twenty years to reconnect with the idea of love and romance as a domestic abuse survivor.
However, I’m so glad that Kat kept whispering to me and introduced me to the other characters, as the response to Floating Solo has blown me away.
To keep the momentum going, I asked Rachel from Rachel’s Random Resources to help me put together a blog tour to share the book love.
Twenty incredible bloggers/readers signed up to take part, and yet again I was blown away by their lovely reviews and support.
Here are a few of my favourite review snippets:
“You can’t help but fall under the spell of life on the canals when you read this story.” Books, Life and Everything
A brilliant read with plenty of laughter
And an enemies first leading to a happy ever after.
There’s plenty of drama as they travel away
A really fun read, I have to say!
“I loved all the detail of both filming the docuseries and its behind-the-scenes moments and life on the canal, and the range of positive characters; it’s also good to see women supporting each other and a woman successfully running a small business, as that’s never in doubt. The community feel is there, with Roger from the “everything” shop a sterling support, and the romance is open-door but reasonably blurry so not all over it. Morals and good behaviour are upheld – oh, and it’s set in Warwickshire, on what one of “my” canals becomes when it leaves Birmingham, which is always nice! This is apparently Wilson’s first foray into romance, and her self-help background and experience writing in other genres shine through here. A good, comforting and charming read.” LibroFullTime
“Floating Solo is a fun, lighthearted read. The characters are loveable, and I especially loved the main protagonist, Kat. She is down-to-earth, a bit quirky, and I was rooting for her happiness and success all the way through.
This is the first book I’ve read that is set on a narrow boat on the canals, and I loved the unusual setting.
Kat is working so hard to make her business a success even though her confidence wavers at times. She would never have believed she would be hosting for a Hollywood film crew, including a very grumpy star.
Enemies to lovers is one of my favourite romance tropes, and this one was done really well. Jordan began as the clichéd, spoiled Hollywood star, but before long, he was swayed by the gorgeous English countryside and the Creaky Cauldron.
A funny, buoyant read that was just perfect for a sunny afternoon in my garden.” Plumbobmummy
“Clear your schedules as this is one gorgeous, unique and unputdownable stunning escapism. Shelley Wilson, welcome to my favourite author list as well as for writing my FAVOURITE READ OF 2025! Overall an absolutely gorgeous escapism that will sweep you away, make you laugh out loud and fall in love with Floating Solo, Kat and the gang!” Bookwormwhitlock86
“I enjoyed reading this, following the slow pace of the narrowboat journey and the accompanying fast pace of the relationships between the characters on the trip, especially Kat and Jordan.
The ups and downs and misunderstandings between two very different strangers as they navigate unfamiliar situations in close proximity make for a brilliant read!” ButISmileAnyway
“I love this delightful and cozy, cute read. This was exactly what I needed after a rough week – some happiness, escapism, and pure joy. Shelley’s story managed to lift my spirits and take me away from my bad mood within a few pages.” Taras Bookish Blog
“Floating Solo is a unique and inspiring story about following your dreams.” Stratosphere Kawaii Girl
I want to extend a massive thank you to Rachel for supporting me with this tour, and to all the bloggers and readers who took the time out of their busy schedules to read, review, and support me. Thank you x
Floating Solo Blurb
Are you single?
Have you lost your confidence when it comes to travelling?
Would you welcome a few weeks away to find that missing spark?
Climb aboard the Creaky Cauldron for an adventure like no other!
Budding entrepreneur Kat Sinclair wants to grow her quirky solo narrowboat holiday enterprise but faces rejection at every turn. Until a Hollywood film crew gets in touch with the potential to change her business, dreams, and love life forever.
‘Enemies to lovers’
‘Small town romance’
Praise for Floating Solo
“Funny, sweet and deliciously romantic. An absolute gem of a book. Romance tied up in a narrowboat package.” Susan Buchanan
“I’ve absolutely loved reading Floating Solo! Where and when do I book? I need one of these holidays! It’s such a heartwarming feel-good read! I loved the setting, the friendships, the relationships! Everything really! Felt like I was watching a romcom film. Come on, Netflix! Please commission more romcoms! I sincerely hope this is not your last romcom! More, please!” Kim Nash
Grab your copy of Floating Solo here:
Amazon UK – https://www.amazon.co.uk/Floating-Solo-Shelley-Wilson/dp/1739244036/
Amazon US – https://www.amazon.com/Floating-Solo-Shelley-Wilson/dp/1739244036/
Waterstones – https://www.waterstones.com/book/floating-solo/shelley-wilson/9781739244033
Barnes & Noble – https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/floating-solo-shelley-wilson/1146530365
Shelley Wilson Author 
I loved being on your tour, Shelley! X
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Thanks for taking part xx
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What a great setting for your photo.
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This was the narrowboat that sparked the idea! It’s my friend’s boat which they hire out. We did a narrowboat networking day onboard last week. Lots of fun!
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Shelly, I loved this book – it opened up a whole new world for me and I loved going along on the ride, or should I say, floating trip!
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That’s so lovely to hear, thank you x
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I’m so pleased you’ve had such a great response to your romance book. Well deserved 💗
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Thank you so much x
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