Your Preview Verdict: Love on the Air by Ash London

Your Preview Verdict: Love on the Air by Ash London

Radio young gun Alex York is used to knowing – and getting – exactly what she wants.

But when she blows up her glamorous career and retreats to a tropical island, for the first time in her life she has no plan, no prospects and, increasingly, no money.

Lured back to the real world by the breakfast radio gig of a lifetime, she promises herself she’ll never let anyone throw her off course again – not her patronisingly old-school CEO, her network arch-nemesis or even her unexpectedly attractive new boss …

Buy a copy of Love on the Air here.

Read some great reviews from our Preview readers here:

The trials and tribulations of working in the media are presented in this happy story. The team that presents the breakfast program sounds all too real and shows how many people are involved. Take the petty jealousies of some, the inability of some to recognise female talent and abilities combined with the underlying romances of the different characters provides a great read. Once I got into the novel it was difficult to put down. Anne, NSW, 5 stars

Love, love, loved! Love on the air was such a fun read. Loved the main character Alex & hooked from the first page with her love of designer labels. Love the amazing courage that Alex had to stand up for herself & all women in male dominated industries. Congratulations Ash London on your amazing debut novel. Natalie, WA, 5 stars

Well this was bloody delightful! I’m a big Ash London fan and as soon as I saw she was writing a rom-com set in commercial radio I was all in! I was definitely hearing Ash’s voice when reading. Utterly bingeable, deliciously glam and full of heart. Cry count: 3.5 #YTG Emma, VIC, 5 stars

Absolute perfection! I couldn’t put this one down. A light rom-com that still had all the depth necessary to make me feel deeply. I wish I could read it again for the first time. And if it were a movie, I’d have it playing on repeat. Danae, TAS, 5 stars

Brilliant job Ash, I loved this one! And let’s be honest, who doesn’t enjoy a little bit of romance in our lives! Highly recommend for an easy to read, love story that was hard to put down Emma, WA, 5 stars

Alex York, a rising star in radio, is reeling from a breakup and a self-imposed exile on a tropical island when she’s offered the career opportunity of a lifetime. Returning to Sydney to take over a coveted breakfast radio slot, she’s determined to prove herself, despite workplace sexism, a conniving rival, and the inconvenient fact that her new boss, Leo, is both frustratingly charming and completely off-limits. London crafts a fast-paced, engaging story filled with witty banter, loveable side characters, and just the right amount of romantic tension. While the book is light and fun, it also highlights the gender biases still present in the media industry. Alex is a bold, driven protagonist, and while her obsession with high-end fashion might not be relatable to all readers, she ultimately grows into a more grounded and self-assured character. With a refreshing lack of a third-act breakup and a satisfying romance, Love on the Air is the perfect escapist read. Whether you’re a fan of enemies-to-lovers or just love a good workplace rom-com, this debut novel is pure joy from start to finish. Tyson, TAS, 5 stars

I did not know how much I needed to escape into the world of Alex York until I started reading Love on the Air. I laughed out loud, I gasped at her extravagant spending, and I hung on for the crazy ride that was Alex. I thoroughly enjoyed every page. If you want some fun and romance, I can highly recommend this delightful book! Kelly, QLD, 5 stars

Alex York is all about getting what she wants, and she usually does. But after she wrecks her glamorous radio career and escapes to a tropical island, she finds herself without a plan, no job prospects, and her finances dwindling for the first time ever. When a dream breakfast radio opportunity pulls her back to reality, she vows to stay focused and not let anyone derail her again—not her condescending CEO, her rival at the network, or even her surprisingly charming new boss. Initially, I wasn’t sure I’d enjoy this book since it dives into partying, fashion, and brands that don’t really interest me. However, after a few chapters and getting to know the characters, I was totally hooked. It’s a fun read that feels like a light romance but also sheds light on the fast-paced world of radio and the hurdles women face in a male-dominated field. Christine, TAS, 5 stars

What a fantastic debut novel from Ash London. I laughed, I cried and I cried from laughing. This was such a fun, wholesome read that had me wanting to read more from the very first chapter. Alex was such a strong powerful character and I loved reading her story. I can’t wait to see what Ash London does next. Karlee, QLD, 5 stars

What more can you ask for than a Rom Com in a book Gai, NSW, 5 stars

A delightful romance that will make you laugh and cry. Beautifully captures all the emotions of falling in love! Litsa, VIC, 5 stars

Love on the Air (Ash London) is such a fun and touching romance. We can have an idea of how sexist the entertainment industry still are and how women must support each other in their careers. At the same time we read this beautiful romance starting, between a heart broken woman and a widow man that still is not sure how to be back at the relationship field. Cintia, VIC, 5 stars

Om my goodness I could not put this down – what a fun read and who doesn’t just love a love story! I found it exciting and heartwarming with just the right amount of adventure! this was a 2 day read for me and I fell in love with Alex! and was very smitten with Leo! Who doesn’t want to be loved like that! I look forward to reading more from Ash – instant fan! Jodi C, QLD, 5 stars

Thoroughly enjoyed ready this book. It was engaging and the characters were detailed and enjoyable. I would highly recommend this book. Sarah, VIC, 5 stars

Love on the Air was such a joy to read! I am unfamiliar with Aussie radio host/new author Ash London; however, her debut novel was such a heartwarming read. Alex York, a young radio host, is running from a relationship breakup. While hiding from her problems on a tropical island with her best friend, a once in a lifetime job opportunity is presented to her. Alex is persuaded by her co-host and close friend, Tom, to come home and step up to the challenge. Alex discovers that she is replacing her idol, Goldie and has a hot new boss, named Leo to contend with too. Things aren’t all smooth sailing for Alex but there’s nothing that a good shopping spree can’t fix! This romantic comedy is light and funny but also addressed topics such as women’s equality and death of a spouse. I love the pink cover and artwork too! Sharah, QLD, 5 stars

This book was a joy to read! It follows the highs and lows of the career of Alex York as she navigates the commercial radio industry. I enjoyed the insights into the world of breakfast radio and the challenges women can face making it in this industry. The story strikes a balance between entertaining comic moments in the world of shopping, fashion, celebrity musicians and bucket list travel destinations with more serious issues such as sexism in the workplace and family heartache. Alex’s story is one of second chances, of being brave to take those chances and living life with an open heart. I look forward to reading Ash London’s next book! Holly, WA, 5 stars

This book was great it was easy to get into and was an enjoyable read. The pace of the story was good and it was way to follow I felt like you wanted to find out how the character ended up the author got you invested in them. I enjoyed it and would recommend I will also keep and eye out for more from this author Taryn, SA, 5 stars

A perfect poolside read to close out summer 2025! Ash London delivers a fast-paced, empowering story filled with sass, charm, and action. The characters are down-to-earth and loveable—except for one oddball who keeps things interesting. The novel proves that women can absolutely hold their own in a world often dominated by men, and Alex York herself is a force to be reckoned with. The gripping plot and witty dialogue make it impossible to put down. If you’re looking for a fun, fierce, and inspiring read, this one’s a must! Sally, NSW, 5 stars

I really got involved in this book, well written, light and easy to follow, funny, heartfelt, romantic storyline about a radio presenter.some funny laugh out loud moments that relate, so a great read, love the journey through her ups and downs of her famous celeb interviews, friendships, can’t put down, a real page turner. Julie, NSW, 5 stars

Love on the Air is a smart, funny rom com set against the fast passed world of commercial radio. Following the trials and tribulations of Alex York we get to enter her world and fall in love with her friends and family. A great first novel and a pleasure to read. Shannan, NSW, 5 stars

Such joy! This book is that kind of perfect escapism where life is bubbly and optimistic and everything and everyone is fabulous all the time. It starts off with a heartbroken Alex lolling around with her BFF in tropical paradise as she nurtures her broken heart with a winning combination of wallowing, yoga and rum. Then comes the job offer of her dreams – the morning radio slot at her station, ‘The Alex York Breakfast Show’. Promoted by her mentor Gloria. And supported by a terribly good looking new boss Leo. And it’s just a super fun ride. Alex is kind and witty, chaotic but impressively good at her job. I particularly enjoyed a FMC who backed herself- insecure about her love life but in everything else she knew she kicked ass. It’s a love story slotted into several other love stories and it will make you feel all soppy and giddy. I was way too invested in the relationships. And this was a romance boss trope I could get on board with (normally I get the power play icks, but this was not that). A tall glass of fizzy deliciousness. Kate (Katherine), VIC, 5 stars

I think I knew right from the start that I was going to absolutely love and enjoy this debut novel by Ash London. Alex York is a radio personality who has recently gone through a break up, which then had her quit her job and run off to the island where her best friend is currently working. When she returns home, she lands her dream job of host of her own breakfast radio program thanks to her idol Goldie Miller. As the story goes on, I felt myself getting so invested in the lives of these characters, especially the relationship between Alex & Leo. I honestly loved this book & cannot wait for Ash London’s next novel. Amanda, NSW, 5 stars

A crippling heartbreak, a job she loves abandoned, and seven weeks on an island, licking her wounds: surely Star FM’s popular night time DJ, Alex York can’t start her New Year like this? Then, a dream job offer from her breakfast show idol: even after an embarrassing encounter with the man who will be her boss can’t take the shine off that! Yes, Leo Billings is just her type, but no: he’s her boss, she’s sworn off men, and she has other things to worry about, including the obnoxious drive-time DJ who feels he has a right to her job, and the CEO, who seems to agree. Can she make her slot a ratings success? Will she find a man who sticks? An entertaining debut. Marianne, NSW, 5 stars

Alex York’s relationship has badly ended. Heartbroken, she quits her radio job and heads to an island getaway with her bestie. When she can no longer avoid real life she returns to her work bestie Tom, whom she abandoned. Alex then finds herself thrust into a new job with new responsibilities and a hot, but complicated new boss, Leo. When Alex gets stressed, she shops and parties big time. Gotta love a girl with good taste! Set in Australia, in the radio industry and written in style that keeps the reader entertained and totally enraptured with the storyline moving in a fast pace. I absolutely loved this story and the characters of Tom, Alex and Leo, along with the usual characters you love to hate. Once I picked up this book, I couldn’t stop. It’s been a long time since I was up util 2:30am reading, especially when I had to get up early. I simply thought, oh well what would Alex do? She’d get up, dress up and show up. I love a book which keeps you wondering what the characters are up to once the story ends. A fabulous read. Lyn, QLD, 5 stars

I was excited to hear that Ash London, an Australian radio host, had written a novel and it was set in the media industry she knows well. Love on the Air tells the story of a music radio host named Alex York and her relationship with enemy/love interest/coworker Leo Billings. This book was definitely a rom-com with funny moments. It also included a lot of drama in Alex’s life with her family, friends, coworkers and celebrities with surprise twists. Also more serious issues such as grief, gender inequality and workplace issues were included. However the main character wanted her radio show to be mostly joyous and I think Ash London felt the same with her writing as I enjoyed reading Love on the Air. Rachel, VIC, 4 stars

Love on the Air by Ash London is a fun will they won’t they rom-com set in the world of cut throat radio. The story sees the protagonist, Alex, rise from the ashes of her previous radio gig and become a broadcasting powerhouse. Along the way she supports those around her, has amazing encounters and adventures with pop stars, crosses paths with a misogynistic CEO and colleague, and succumbs to her feelings for her boss. With so much happening in the story it would be easy to become overwhelmed with the details, but the writing style made it is easy to follow and pick up when needed. One question I do have is how big was her room. With so many luxury goods being name dropped throughout the story, her wardrobe must have been ridiculously extensive. Where did she put it all????????? Jodie, WA, 4 stars

It took a little to get into this book, but overall it was fun, flirty, and very Aussie. Also, we love a book showcasing successful women in male-led fields! My main caveat: I’m sure that I too would’ve boasted about my status like Alex if I were in her shoes, but the constant name-dropping of high-end designer brands started to take me out of the book as the story went on. This is the perfect romance for fans of the grumpy x sunshine and enemies to lovers tropes! Belarna, QLD, 4 stars

Alex York pulls you in to her whirlwind life of ups, downs and outrageous glamour. With an mis matched bunch of friends and family by her side we follow the dramas that we all know so well – work , relationship la and everything in between. It is a very easy read once you buckle in for the ride! Tina, QLD, 4 stars

Love On the Air made me feel my age! I loved the characters, the plot, the silliness and the resolution, even though I had never even heard of most of the expensive clothing brands that filled Alex York’s wardrobe!I appreciated that the author dealt with serious issues too, sexism, heartbreak, trauma from youth. I’d recommend this fun. pure escapism! Liesl, NSW, 4 stars

This is a light fun read, much in the tradition of Sophie Kinsella’s Shopaholic series,(smart young thing with very wealthy friends and an obsession for high end fashion!) which readers of this book are likely to be too young to have read. There’s humour, romance and even revenge, without a dead body in sight. There’s also an underlying message that women are as smart and capable as men but have many more hurdles to overcome to succeed in business. Good holiday read! Mara, NSW, 4 stars

Ash London’s Love On The Air flaunts a world of celebrities, fashion, and competition. This novel takes place in a society of designer labels and hobnobbing in elite bars. For a novice, it was difficult to be fully immersed in the world of celebrity angst and fashion faux pas. The visual clothes fest, London expands on, does engage even this unknown fashion critic’s interest. It is in this world that we meet Alex York, a top radio host who is offered her dream job. The plot seems almost unbelievable, as everything that possibly could happen does. She has a snotty ex, a love interest at work, a nemesis trying to instigate himself in her job and a lack of financial planning that clashes with her love of cucumber martinis. But her love of the job prevails. In the end, Alex’s take on the complexities of her job comes down to one of my favourite lines in the book. ‘I just want the show to be joyous without being condescending…a reminder that even in the shittiness there’s joy and wonder and fun to be found.’ It was this concept flowing throughout the plot that made Ash London’s novel a great read. Nina, VIC, 4 stars

If you want to read an Aussie romcom by an Aussie legend, this is the book for you. Wow – Ash London can write! I fell in love with the premise of this book – not only are you rooting Alex with her career, but you are yearning for him to find a good guy she deserves. This book gives you everything you need from a rom com – awesome characters, fun plot twists and a suspenseful will they wont they romance. Kathleen, ACT, 4 stars

Alex York – Radio young gun -gets everything she wants. Her career blows up and she goes to a tropical Island with nothing.Great read how she is coaxed back to the radio world and how she remembers not to throw herself off course again. Funny and dramatic turns all I love in a book which I can loose myself in. Jackie, QLD, 4 stars

A fun, lighthearted look at breakfast radio, especially in light of recent comments made on air about women’s sport! This book had its own personality clashes, which were well-written and very believable. Alex is strong and very likeable, owning her foibles. I especially enjoyed reading her experiences with financial planning and earlier total lack thereof! Vanessa would be a fabulous protagonist in a companion novel, which I would read immediately. (Despite the fact that romance is not my go-to genre, the comedy element in London’s writing hooked me.) Heidi, VIC, 4 stars

While I personally didn’t find Love on the Air by Ash London to be to my taste, I feel that anyone up to their mid-forties will find it enjoyable. Well written, with believable characters and descriptive locations. A good clean storyline of life of the rich and beautiful people in the radio and entertainment business and the eternal struggle for acceptance of females in what has been typically male roles. Romance blossoms in unlikely places and gives that ‘feel good’ feeling that all is right with the world. If you enjoy ‘romcoms’ and the old ‘soapies’ you will love this. Terry, SA, 4 stars

Love On The Air is a humorous and easy to read novel in the rom com style. Alex York represents wealth and fashion as well as the cut throat side of radio hosting. This book is sure to appeal to young women as it focuses on fashion, music and relationships. Denise, NSW, 4 stars

What a delight, so self indulgent, like the main character Alex. Love on The Air was a fun read, flashy & fluffy with a lovely romantic twist or 2. I enjoyed the characters passion for their work & lifestyle. Theresa, QLD, 4 stars

Breezy, modern romance isn’t my usual genre but I thoroughly enjoyed this journey into the love life of Alex York. The story is based on a female fantasy – Alex is a talented woman (but we don’t hear about her grinding away – boring), she enjoys shopping and the high life and is thrown into a job that makes her oodles of money to support her lavish tastes which makes up for her financially cluelessness. I couldn’t relate to Alex’s lifestyle, didn’t know all the fancy brands, but I felt that the story was filled with so much joy it didn’t matter. The book is escapism – her financial advisor is a doll and her lover understanding and smart. Like Alex’s radio show, the book is about positivity. The fantasy manages to be a fun ride rather than annoying. Perhaps because it knows what it wants to be and isn’t pretending to be something deeper. There are a few speeches about how women have it tough in the media but the story is lighthearted, not preachy. Love on the Air leaves a smile on your face although it isn’t the story that’s going to teach you deep life lessons. Rebecca, NSW, 4 stars

Ash London’s Love on the Air is a delightful, feel-good romance that seamlessly blends lighthearted entertainment with a strong feminist undertone. While it delivers all the charm and humour expected from a rom-com, it also carries a refreshing modern message that will resonate with today’s women. The novel follows an engaging protagonist navigating the highs and lows of love, career, and self-discovery in the world of radio broadcasting. London crafts her characters with warmth and authenticity, making them instantly relatable. The chemistry between the leads is electric, but it’s the heroine’s journey—her ambition, resilience, and refusal to settle—that truly shines. What sets Love on the Air apart is its effortless balance of romance and empowerment. While it indulges in swoon-worthy moments and witty banter, it never shies away from exploring the challenges faced by women in male-dominated industries. London’s writing is fluent and engaging, making it impossible to put down. A pleasing addition to the romance genre, Love on the Air proves that love stories can be both fun and meaningful. With its sharp dialogue, uplifting themes, and strong female lead, it’s a must-read for any modern woman who loves a good happily-ever-after. Jean, NSW, 4 stars

This was a really enjoyable book. I enjoyed reading it, it was well written and I would definitely recommend it Kathleen, NSW, 4 stars

I found this book and its crew of characters entirely adorable and enjoyable, not to mention motivating. I did struggle to relate to Alex at the beginning with her constant splashing of cash, but honestly if I was in her position I’d probably do the same. I loved that she was determined to make a name for herself and to prove that radio didn’t need to be a boys club any longer. I certainly wish I had a friend like Finley that’s for sure! Leo was a great grumpy to Alex’s sunshine and I loved how they balanced each other out and helped each other to grow. My only criticism would be the constant label dropping throughout the book. It makes sense given Alex’s shopping addiction but it felt like a bit much by the end of the book. Pandora, QLD, 4 stars

While it’s not my usual go-to genre, I found this to be an absolute page-turner and a fantastic escape from day-to-day life. I came to really care about the characters by the end of the book (especially Leo), and I loved the message the book shares by having a powerful female in a typically male dominated field. I can’t say I’ve read any books before that revolve around a radio show, so I found that aspect particularly interesting! I definitely recommend this book for anyone looking for something light to read that you won’t want to put down. Lisa, VIC, 4 stars

Ash London’s Love On the Air is a fun and lighthearted book that is an enjoyable mix of romance and nostalgia. I enjoyed the unique premise and found the chemistry between Ash and her guests made the book feel relatable. While the show is entertaining, it did feel a little repetitive. The pacing also felt uneven at times, with some episodes dragging while others leave you wanting more depth. Overall, I found Love On the Air to be an entertaining book that was perfect for a quiet afternoon read Rochelle, VIC, 3 stars

Love On The Air is the debut novel from Ash London, darling of the radio airwaves and podcast industry. London has taken her experience and knowledge of commercial radio to create a fun, frothy novel that readers will tear through. With references to fashion and celebrities, this is Shopaholic for a new generation. The central character is Alex York, under thirty and at a crossroads in her life. A breakup with her boyfriend sees Alex saying goodbye to her job and living on an island to lick her wounds for a couple months. When a fantasy job lands in her lap, Alex is persuaded to return to normal life at the helm of Star FM. London lifts the lid on the life of a radio presenter and will leave the reader’s jaw on the floor. For this reader, the rampant sexism was shocking yet dealt with in a sensitive manner. Through it all Alex’s love of the job shines through, as does the building sexual tension with her boss, Leo. There’s only one problem. Alex is focused on work, not love. Will Alex step away from the mic long enough to follow her heart? Nicole, WA, 3 stars

A nice joyful read. I found the climax not as climatic as I would have liked so I wasn’t sitting on the edge of my chair wanting to know more straight away. I resonated with Alex because she fought for what was right, was loyal to her team, stood up for others and tried to make others proud of her. The living at home theme was relevant because so many people are buying houses later these days. I enjoyed the exploration of same sex relationships, feminism, assisted dying and grief themes. These themes are not common and it is great Alex explored them. Tara, WA, 3 stars
Love on the Air was an easy and fun read. Following Alex through her relationships, her career and her spending sprees was a bit of fun. Her life so very removed from mine. Alex is a party girl who spends up large and has to have the latest and greatest and wears designer clothing. Not in any way responsible with money she spends up large without a care until she suddenly realises that something has to be done because having your credit card declined is not a very nice experience and its about time she started to plan for the future especially when a bit of luck comes her way and she ends up with a fantastic pay packet thanks to a new job. But holding on to that job might also become a bit of a battle with so many members of the “boys club” out to get her and help to cause her demise. Shes an adult but living rent free with hwe Aunt and Uncle with no plans to move out. Alex finding that she is attracted to her new boss adds more drama and tension into the mix. A great rainy day weekend read. Annamaree, QLD, 3 stars

I can’t say I loved this book, but I didn’t hate it either. I found it hard to relate to Ash and the way she label dropped constantly through the book, but I admire her work ethic and the way she made a name for herself in a male dominated industry. Kelly, SA, 3 stars

A cute book with a somewhat predictable storyline. A little too much so for me. A very young hip designer vibe. It does try to encompass women’s rights & gay lifestyles as well with success. Enjoyable as a light beach read. Lina, VIC, 3 stars

Love on the Air is a fast-paced rom-com offering a fascinating glimpse behind the curtain into the world of commercial radio. I adored getting to know Alex York, a popular morning radio announcer, and her found family of colourful characters as they navigate love, grief, ratings and shopping! Ash London has drawn on her extensive career in the media to craft an enjoyable, empowering story that is a perfect summer beach read. Lisa, QLD, 3 stars

A casual and funny read. Alex York loves her fashion (even if it does max out her credit card) and when her boyfriend dumps her she hits rock bottom. Big turnaround when she is lured back to run a number one radio show with lucrative pay and an attractive new boss she wants to impress. The book has a few interesting characters. An easy read. Helen, QLD, 3 stars

Ash London has been a radio presenter in the past, hosting her own on air shows. This book reads as if it’s a memior amended to add a twist of romance, drama and whitty stories. I really struggled to read this one. The book felt like it was almost forced to get through with the attration between the two main characters only coming into play half way through. Although I struggled to read it, it is still a worthy read if you want to sit and read a book front to back without thinking too hard on the storyline. Nicole, SA, 2 stars

I have just finished reading Love is in the Air but l’m afraid it wasn’t a book l enjoyed reading. The storyline was very predictable and none of the characters endeared themselves to me. The book is a good reflection on how celebrities live in a self indulgent world. All the brand name dropping throughout the book annoyed me. I can imagine young women reading the book as they are easily impressed by the celebrity lifestyle. I imagine the radio world is very competitive and a toxic place to work so the book gave you an incite into that and the unrealistic life they live. Kaye, VIC, 2 stars

Buy a copy of Love on the Air here.

Reviews

Better Reading Preview: Love on the Air by Ash London

Review | Preview

27 January 2025

Better Reading Preview: Love on the Air by Ash London

    Publisher details

    Love on the Air
    Author
    Ash London
    Publisher
    Allen & Unwin
    Genre
    Fiction
    Released
    01 April, 2025
    ISBN
    9781761470455

    Synopsis

    Radio young gun Alex York is used to knowing – and getting – exactly what she wants.

    But when she blows up her glamorous career and retreats to a tropical island, for the first time in her life she has no plan, no prospects and, increasingly, no money.

    Lured back to the real world by the breakfast radio gig of a lifetime, she promises herself she'll never let anyone throw her off course again – not her patronisingly old-school CEO, her network arch-nemesis or even her unexpectedly attractive new boss …

    Ash London
    About the author

    Ash London

    Ash London is a renowned music journalist and media personality who has hosted major TV and radio shows, including Ash London LIVE, 2DayFM Breakfast and The Loop, plus live events RnB Fridays LIVE and The ARIAs red carpet, and has appeared on Have You Been Paying Attention? Known for her natural warmth, she's flown to Paris to interview Taylor Swift and scored multiple piggyback rides from Ed Sheeran. Being a self-confessed hopeless romantic, she currently hosts the podcast Hopeless Romantics and previously shared her motherhood journey on New Mum, Who Dis? Ash lives between Melbourne and Auckland with her husband and young son.

    Books by Ash London

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