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For Once In My Life
Jenny thought she was done with men and relationships . . . her kids, however, had other plans. A delightful, entertaining and funny rural romance from Karly Lane, the bestselling author with over 550,000 books sold.
Jenny Hayward cannot believe that she's fifty years old and a grandmother with adult children! When did that happen? Not that long ago her three daughters were in school and Jenny was following her dream of becoming a nurse.
In the two years since her husband walked out, Jenny has been absorbed in her family and work, until her daughters and her best friend secretly set her up with a profile on a dating app and she is thrust unexpectedly into the world of dating.
However, as the dates keep coming, Jenny wonders how the people she loves the most in the world have managed so impressively to pick the wrong men for her.
The annoying barman watching on is much more enjoyable company. The barman who is more than a decade younger than her. Yet Nick doesn't seem to notice her age at all . . .
Is Jenny's next date the date of her dreams?
Jenny Hayward cannot believe that she's fifty years old and a grandmother with adult children! When did that happen? Not that long ago her three daughters were in school and Jenny was following her dream of becoming a nurse.
In the two years since her husband walked out, Jenny has been absorbed in her family and work, until her daughters and her best friend secretly set her up with a profile on a dating app and she is thrust unexpectedly into the world of dating.
However, as the dates keep coming, Jenny wonders how the people she loves the most in the world have managed so impressively to pick the wrong men for her.
The annoying barman watching on is much more enjoyable company. The barman who is more than a decade younger than her. Yet Nick doesn't seem to notice her age at all . . .
Is Jenny's next date the date of her dreams?
- GenresRomance
363 pages, Paperback
Published November 28, 2023
23 people are currently reading
180 people want to read
About the author
Karly Lane
34 books371 followersKarly Lane lives on the beautiful Mid North Coast of NSW in Australia. A certified small town girl, she is most happy in a little town where everyone knows who your grand parents were. She writes women’s fiction – everything from romantic suspense to family sagas and life in rural Australia. She has romantic suspense titles published under Karlene Blakemore-Mowle and her latest release, Third Time Lucky is available now.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
November 24, 2023
Two years after Adrian had left her for a younger model, fifty year old Jenny was happy doing what she loved best - working as a nurse in the local hospital, and being surrounded by her adult kids and granddaughter. But it was when her best friend Beth, and Jenny's three children, decided to set Jenny up on a dating site that things came crashing down. The first one they picked for her was a complete disaster, and the other two followed suit. She wasn't looking for a man; she was happy without. The only person who'd taken her eye over the past three disastrous days was the barman at the pub. And Nick was much younger than she was.
Nick decided to end the speculation from the gossipy townsfolk and asked Jenny out himself. But Jenny was fixated on the age gap. She couldn't see a way past it. Could Nick make her see reason? Could Beth and her daughters?
For Once In My Life is another very enjoyable rural romance by Aussie author Karly Lane that I read easily, keen to see where Jenny's life was going. Ms Lane always writes extremely readable books, and I've yet to read one I didn't enjoy. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Nick decided to end the speculation from the gossipy townsfolk and asked Jenny out himself. But Jenny was fixated on the age gap. She couldn't see a way past it. Could Nick make her see reason? Could Beth and her daughters?
For Once In My Life is another very enjoyable rural romance by Aussie author Karly Lane that I read easily, keen to see where Jenny's life was going. Ms Lane always writes extremely readable books, and I've yet to read one I didn't enjoy. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
October 1, 2023
Jenny Hayward is a divorced mother of three adult daughters, a nanna and she cannot believe she's fifty years old and the time has flown. It only seems like yesterday she was packing school lunches, yelling at her kids to do their homework and thinking about returning to the workforce.
Jenny's best friend Beth encouraged her and looked after the girls, so Jenny could study nursing, follow her dreams and her ex-husband certainly didn't. She works at the small community hospital in Barkley, where she has a multipurpose role and she loves her job.
Her husband of twenty seven years left her two years ago for a younger woman, Jenny’s transformed the master bedroom into her own space and she’s quite happy being single. Jenny has no idea her daughters and Beth have secretly created a profile on a dating app for her and she's thrust unexpectedly into the world of online dating and she’s not happy about it. Jenny dates are not what she’s expecting, she discovers men lie on their profiles, she gets tired of getting hit on by the sleazy ones and she's disillusioned by the whole experience. The barman at the newly renovated Coach House hotel witnesses her disastrous dates and humiliation, it quickly gets around Barkley Jenny’s finally dating and she feels embarrassed.
The only man she’s attracted to is Nick behind the bar, Jenny’s sure she’s more than a decade older than him and she doesn’t want to be seen as a cougar. Like many women in their fifties, Jenny doesn’t think she’s attractive, she’s had three babies and she lacks confidence. Her daughters and Beth notice that Nick is certainly keen, why it is OK for men to date much younger women, if it’s the other way around the woman is judged and Jenny needs to throw caution to the wind and live a little.
I received a digital copy of For Once in My Life by Karly Lane from NetGalley and Allen & Unwin in exchange for an honest review. This is the first book I have read by Ms. Lane, it certainly won’t be my last and the author is known for writing small town Australian country fiction and she does it superbly.
The narrative covers important topics such as having to deal with your ex, grown up children who still live at home and being a working mother, it doesn’t matter how old your children are you still worry about them and it’s very hard to keep a secret in a small town and let alone two!
How many single older women no longer feel attractive and they find dating daunting, the negative thoughts and feelings that are caused by what a women sees in the mirror and they worry about their bodies no longer being perfect, I blame society for this and five stars from me.
Jenny's best friend Beth encouraged her and looked after the girls, so Jenny could study nursing, follow her dreams and her ex-husband certainly didn't. She works at the small community hospital in Barkley, where she has a multipurpose role and she loves her job.
Her husband of twenty seven years left her two years ago for a younger woman, Jenny’s transformed the master bedroom into her own space and she’s quite happy being single. Jenny has no idea her daughters and Beth have secretly created a profile on a dating app for her and she's thrust unexpectedly into the world of online dating and she’s not happy about it. Jenny dates are not what she’s expecting, she discovers men lie on their profiles, she gets tired of getting hit on by the sleazy ones and she's disillusioned by the whole experience. The barman at the newly renovated Coach House hotel witnesses her disastrous dates and humiliation, it quickly gets around Barkley Jenny’s finally dating and she feels embarrassed.
The only man she’s attracted to is Nick behind the bar, Jenny’s sure she’s more than a decade older than him and she doesn’t want to be seen as a cougar. Like many women in their fifties, Jenny doesn’t think she’s attractive, she’s had three babies and she lacks confidence. Her daughters and Beth notice that Nick is certainly keen, why it is OK for men to date much younger women, if it’s the other way around the woman is judged and Jenny needs to throw caution to the wind and live a little.
I received a digital copy of For Once in My Life by Karly Lane from NetGalley and Allen & Unwin in exchange for an honest review. This is the first book I have read by Ms. Lane, it certainly won’t be my last and the author is known for writing small town Australian country fiction and she does it superbly.
The narrative covers important topics such as having to deal with your ex, grown up children who still live at home and being a working mother, it doesn’t matter how old your children are you still worry about them and it’s very hard to keep a secret in a small town and let alone two!
How many single older women no longer feel attractive and they find dating daunting, the negative thoughts and feelings that are caused by what a women sees in the mirror and they worry about their bodies no longer being perfect, I blame society for this and five stars from me.
December 8, 2023
For Once In My Life by Aussie author Karly Lane is another wonderfully written rural romance that I thoroughly enjoyed from beginning to end. I know when I pick up a book by this author that it’s going to be not only enjoyable, but the story will allow me to escape into another world and forget about everything else around me and that is exactly what this book did.
Another delightful read by one of my favourite authors who never disappoints her readers. Highly recommended.
With thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for my digital copy to read review.
Another delightful read by one of my favourite authors who never disappoints her readers. Highly recommended.
With thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for my digital copy to read review.
November 19, 2023
Every time I pick up a Karly Lane book I know I am going feel the story, make friends with the characters and be swept away in a wonderful story, I loved what MS Lane has written just before chapter one it is the best.
Jenny Hayward is fifty, divorced, a mother of three daughters and grandmother to one, she loves her job as a nurse and now that it is two yours since her husband left for a younger woman she feels she has her life on track, her home the way she wants it, but apparently her children and her best friend think that it is time she had more fun and by this they mean set her up on a dating app and low and behold Jenny finds herself on three dates in three days, how on earth did they ever think that she was suited to any of these men.
The dates might have been a disaster but the venue, the pub in town that has been renovated has a very good looking barman who Jenny gets talking to over the three days and Nick is one good looking guy and easy to talk to but a bit young for her, although as time goes by Nick doesn’t see any problem with the age difference, will Nick be the one to win her heart or will Jenny stumble at the age difference.
I loved this story so much, it is witty and fun but also moving and such a wonderful romance as we see Jenny and Nick navigate a rocky path to find love, a few obstacles are thrown in the way with small town gossip and the arrival of Nick’s sister. There are so many fabulous characters in this one Jenny’s daughters who play a big part in the story and Beth a fabulous best friend. Truly I laughed and smiled throughout this story as I cheered them on.
I do highly recommend this one, it was very hard to put down.
My thanks to Allen & Unwin and Netgalley for my digital copy to read and review.
Jenny Hayward is fifty, divorced, a mother of three daughters and grandmother to one, she loves her job as a nurse and now that it is two yours since her husband left for a younger woman she feels she has her life on track, her home the way she wants it, but apparently her children and her best friend think that it is time she had more fun and by this they mean set her up on a dating app and low and behold Jenny finds herself on three dates in three days, how on earth did they ever think that she was suited to any of these men.
The dates might have been a disaster but the venue, the pub in town that has been renovated has a very good looking barman who Jenny gets talking to over the three days and Nick is one good looking guy and easy to talk to but a bit young for her, although as time goes by Nick doesn’t see any problem with the age difference, will Nick be the one to win her heart or will Jenny stumble at the age difference.
I loved this story so much, it is witty and fun but also moving and such a wonderful romance as we see Jenny and Nick navigate a rocky path to find love, a few obstacles are thrown in the way with small town gossip and the arrival of Nick’s sister. There are so many fabulous characters in this one Jenny’s daughters who play a big part in the story and Beth a fabulous best friend. Truly I laughed and smiled throughout this story as I cheered them on.
I do highly recommend this one, it was very hard to put down.
My thanks to Allen & Unwin and Netgalley for my digital copy to read and review.
Read
April 30, 2025Deserted by her husband Austin, two years earlier for a younger woman around the same age as her daughters, fifty year old Jenny Hayward is wary of committing her heart again. She has given up on men. Jenny has all three of their adult daughters, for varying reasons, living back with her along with little granddaughter Sophie, who adores her Nanna. Jenny loves her job as a nurse in a local hospital and tells herself she is content with her life in the small Australian rural town of Barkley
When Jenny’s three daughters, Savannah, Brittany and Chloe and Jenny’s best friend Beth conspire to set Jenny up on a dating app, she very reluctantly goes along with it. She finds it a stressful experience.
Nick Mason who owns the Coach House hotel along with sister, his supposedly silent partner Susie, watches Jenny and these set up dates as they fail. He finds hi)self drawn to Jenny. She is attracted by him too but there is an age difference, as Nick is a number of years younger than Jenny. But she cannot deny the attraction.
I enjoyed this story mostly until it got towards the end when it definitely veers into soap opera territory. And I felt that the age difference, which had been an issue for much of the novel, was dealt with a bit too neatly. However despite those negative comments it is an engaging light read. I liked Jenny and also Nick and the setting was great. A lot of people will enjoy it.
When Jenny’s three daughters, Savannah, Brittany and Chloe and Jenny’s best friend Beth conspire to set Jenny up on a dating app, she very reluctantly goes along with it. She finds it a stressful experience.
Nick Mason who owns the Coach House hotel along with sister, his supposedly silent partner Susie, watches Jenny and these set up dates as they fail. He finds hi)self drawn to Jenny. She is attracted by him too but there is an age difference, as Nick is a number of years younger than Jenny. But she cannot deny the attraction.
I enjoyed this story mostly until it got towards the end when it definitely veers into soap opera territory. And I felt that the age difference, which had been an issue for much of the novel, was dealt with a bit too neatly. However despite those negative comments it is an engaging light read. I liked Jenny and also Nick and the setting was great. A lot of people will enjoy it.
July 12, 2024
For Once In My Life is the twenty-second stand-alone novel by Australian author, Karly Lane. At fifty, as resident nurse practitioner at the multi-purpose hospital, mother of three adult children and grandmother of one very sweet two-year-old, Jenny Hayward is quite satisfied with her life in the small NSW rural town of Barkley. She knows everyone, and everyone knows her.
But, at two years divorced from unfaithful Austin (and well rid of him!), her best friend Beth and her daughters tell her “We’ve waited patiently for you to take the first step back out into life again, and you haven’t done it. We can’t sit by any longer and watch you wither away”. They have decided she’s too young to be an old, lonely woman, and have taken action.
They’ve set her up on a dating app, and the attention garnered isn’t a surprise to them: Jenny is attractive and the interests they have listed on her profile appeal to many. She finds herself very reluctantly going on three blind dates.
After nineteen years in the army, thirty-eight-year-old Nick Mason is finally doing something he has wanted for a long time. He’s taken over The Coach House, renovated it with sensitivity for its origins, and turned it into a gastro-pub. His deal with a local beef farmer means paddock-to-plate control and, coupled with a world class (if temperamental) chef, the meals are a big draw card. The only fly in the ointment is that he could only buy the business with his career-driven, corporate, imperious older sister, Susie as his (not-so-silent) partner.
He watches as the lovely divorcee endures her three terrible blind dates and wonders why such a desirable woman is bothering with these no-hopers. He can’t help flirting and, when The Coach House hosts a Hayward family party, leaves Jenny’s ex in doubt that she is attractive to younger men. But Jenny takes a lot of convincing that his intentions are genuine, and that the age difference isn’t an issue.
Jenny succumbs to his attentions but, wary of criticism, is hesitant to make their relationship public. Her daughters, though, welcome it, and Nick “If he’s brave enough to enter the temple of oestrogen and put up with all of us, then I say he’s already proving he’s a keeper”. The course of true love doesn’t run smooth, though, and they need to overcome a few challenges before they can relax.
This is a delightful rural romance that touches on some topical issues before the happy-ever-after ending. Lane’s plot is entirely believable, her characters are appealing, and her nursing references are spot on. Very enjoyable.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Allen & Unwin.
But, at two years divorced from unfaithful Austin (and well rid of him!), her best friend Beth and her daughters tell her “We’ve waited patiently for you to take the first step back out into life again, and you haven’t done it. We can’t sit by any longer and watch you wither away”. They have decided she’s too young to be an old, lonely woman, and have taken action.
They’ve set her up on a dating app, and the attention garnered isn’t a surprise to them: Jenny is attractive and the interests they have listed on her profile appeal to many. She finds herself very reluctantly going on three blind dates.
After nineteen years in the army, thirty-eight-year-old Nick Mason is finally doing something he has wanted for a long time. He’s taken over The Coach House, renovated it with sensitivity for its origins, and turned it into a gastro-pub. His deal with a local beef farmer means paddock-to-plate control and, coupled with a world class (if temperamental) chef, the meals are a big draw card. The only fly in the ointment is that he could only buy the business with his career-driven, corporate, imperious older sister, Susie as his (not-so-silent) partner.
He watches as the lovely divorcee endures her three terrible blind dates and wonders why such a desirable woman is bothering with these no-hopers. He can’t help flirting and, when The Coach House hosts a Hayward family party, leaves Jenny’s ex in doubt that she is attractive to younger men. But Jenny takes a lot of convincing that his intentions are genuine, and that the age difference isn’t an issue.
Jenny succumbs to his attentions but, wary of criticism, is hesitant to make their relationship public. Her daughters, though, welcome it, and Nick “If he’s brave enough to enter the temple of oestrogen and put up with all of us, then I say he’s already proving he’s a keeper”. The course of true love doesn’t run smooth, though, and they need to overcome a few challenges before they can relax.
This is a delightful rural romance that touches on some topical issues before the happy-ever-after ending. Lane’s plot is entirely believable, her characters are appealing, and her nursing references are spot on. Very enjoyable.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Allen & Unwin.
December 14, 2023
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For Once in My Life is another huge success from author Karly Lane.
I absolutely enjoyed everything about this story!
The main character, Jenny, is easy to warm to. Jenny is turning fifty and after a very hectic two years, post divorce, getting her life back on track she is ready to relax a little. However her three grown daughters, who have all returned home after differing life events, decide mum needs to have some fun, maybe even find love again. The girls secretly set up a dating profile for their mum and start chatting and setting up dates with potential love interests.
We follow Jenny on her dates, all at the local pub, most are a disaster and she is a little embarrassed and a little annoyed that the cute barman seems to be taking it all in.
Jenny is such a lovely person and wonderful mum and grandmother. She was so patient with her daughters' antics. There are lots of laugh-out-loud moments throughout the story and most are at Jenny's expense but she comes across as the sort of person who would be mortified one minute and laughing along the next.
As with all Karly's books, between the humour and flirting, there are many pertinent themes explored, such as; reviving small country towns, restaurants sourcing local food, small-town gossip, age gap relationships and life after divorce.
For Once in My Life (honestly, I can't get that Stevie Wonder song out of my head) is engaging and fun, a feel good story not to be missed.
For Once in My Life is another huge success from author Karly Lane.
I absolutely enjoyed everything about this story!
The main character, Jenny, is easy to warm to. Jenny is turning fifty and after a very hectic two years, post divorce, getting her life back on track she is ready to relax a little. However her three grown daughters, who have all returned home after differing life events, decide mum needs to have some fun, maybe even find love again. The girls secretly set up a dating profile for their mum and start chatting and setting up dates with potential love interests.
We follow Jenny on her dates, all at the local pub, most are a disaster and she is a little embarrassed and a little annoyed that the cute barman seems to be taking it all in.
Jenny is such a lovely person and wonderful mum and grandmother. She was so patient with her daughters' antics. There are lots of laugh-out-loud moments throughout the story and most are at Jenny's expense but she comes across as the sort of person who would be mortified one minute and laughing along the next.
As with all Karly's books, between the humour and flirting, there are many pertinent themes explored, such as; reviving small country towns, restaurants sourcing local food, small-town gossip, age gap relationships and life after divorce.
For Once in My Life (honestly, I can't get that Stevie Wonder song out of my head) is engaging and fun, a feel good story not to be missed.
December 14, 2023
This book is a book about not looking in your past and focusing on your future. I laughed so much throughout this book. I think it was because the main character was in my age group. I loved the small town atmosphere , and the sayings that go with it. They were spot on. The banter between all the characters was hilarious. The ending was a complete suprise and loved the distraction from everything going on.
December 5, 2023
There is something special about Karly Lane’s novels. She inspires, uplifts, encourages, advises and even provides a heavenly escape through her fictional worlds where characters come alive and become friends we never want to say goodbye to—even on their worst days. Because their dilemmas are real, their passions absorbing and their encounters exciting. They wear a believable skin that stretches over us like a shelter in the storms of our own lives—helping us to look at issues from all angles and find solutions. Or at least point us in the right direction. Karly’s novels are relatable because they deal with human dramas (and sometimes animal traumas, too!) but they are always within the sphere of family, love, concern for others and the environment. For Once in My Life is no exception. This story is a lot about relationships and deals with ageism and how society looks at women differently than at men who date those younger than themselves. And even how it affects a person’s actions and reactions. It poses the question: if two people are right for each other, does an age difference matter?
An intriguing dedication opens the door on this reading journey. For Once in My Life is addressed to ‘all the women who still get a shock when it comes to saying your age out loud and wondering how it’s possible to suddenly be this old!’ Karly goes on to remind us of all of the miles we have travelled through child rearing, divorces, losses and grief but also the victories and new friends we’ve made (and sometimes lost). Then she offers advice and encouragement to be fearless, fierce and faithful to who you are. ‘Be true to yourself.’ All these elements are beautifully presented and played out in this story so that its message shines like a beacon of hope and that ‘the greatest times are ahead.’
As soon as I entered chapter one, I was transported to a familiar contemporary family in an Australian rural town. A good portion of the story takes place in and around a one hundred and twenty years old hotel that proudly wears its rustic timber frames and impressive history. But also contains ‘a vibrant modern look to its furnishings’ and ‘beautiful teal lounge chairs scattered in front of an open fireplace…’ This unexpected contrast gives it that extra dash of sophistication. One might say, it is a successful combination of ‘old world meeting the new’ which is reflected not only in the Hotel but also in many other aspects of the novel—even in dating. The past method of meeting people for dates in various physical locations is traded in for finding love through a dating app! And the relationships that might transpire may not always be so ‘traditional’.
The character focus in For Once in My Life initially is with fifty-year-old Jenny, a nurse, a mother and a soon to be lover. Two years earlier her husband left her for a much younger woman. Now she has to deal with her ex and the all that surrounds his newish relationship. This humiliation creates a bit of insecurity in her, as far as romantic relationships go, but the one place she is confident in is her job as a nurse. She is very good at it and we are able to see her skill in action when one of Nick’s (the barman and co-owner of the Hotel) apprentices comes in after having a horrendous accident in the kitchen. Jenny is calm, efficient and takes the emergency in hand and delivers positive results. (It is here that Nick is amazed by her abilities and is drawn to her even more.)
In the workplace she is dynamite. Her job holds her attention and takes up most of her life. Since her husband left, she has not been interested in starting another relationship. But her daughters think differently and set her up on a dating app without her knowledge or consent. When some dates roll in, they attempt to convince her to give this modern approach a chance. Reluctantly she gives in but things don’t turn out as hoped. After a few unpleasant date experiences under the watchful eye of Nick the barman (these dates are at his hotel) where he attempts to rescue her from some potentially bad experiences with men that he sees are ‘all wrong’ for her, things begin to change. Jenny realises she is attracted to Nick, a much younger man, and this age difference begins to play on her mind. Nick is also drawn to Jenny but the age difference appears to be of no concern to him.
The story is presented from two viewpoints, Jenny’s and Nick’s, and their romantic awakenings are a delight to follow. I found myself hoping they would get together as they seemed well-suited and happy. There are some dramas, of course, just as in real life curve balls can strike at any time. But the couple work out solutions that suit everyone involved. I must add, we learn a lot more about Nick’s background and (he does too!) so there are some surprise revelations.
I fully enjoyed the story and found the ending satisfying and true to the dedication in the novel. As with all Karly’s novels, I highly recommend, as they will make you smile, give your confidence a boost and show you that ‘The greatest times are still ahead.’ But another ingredient caught my attention. Being in the music industry, I often see connections between songs and stories and for Karly’s, I could not stop thinking of Steve Wonder’s For Once in My Life song that not only has the same title but carries a similar message. So it is a great song to listen to when reading and contemplating her book! And I highly recommend this 5-Star ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ upcoming heart-warming treasure.
Thanks to Allen & Unwin for my review copy.
An intriguing dedication opens the door on this reading journey. For Once in My Life is addressed to ‘all the women who still get a shock when it comes to saying your age out loud and wondering how it’s possible to suddenly be this old!’ Karly goes on to remind us of all of the miles we have travelled through child rearing, divorces, losses and grief but also the victories and new friends we’ve made (and sometimes lost). Then she offers advice and encouragement to be fearless, fierce and faithful to who you are. ‘Be true to yourself.’ All these elements are beautifully presented and played out in this story so that its message shines like a beacon of hope and that ‘the greatest times are ahead.’
As soon as I entered chapter one, I was transported to a familiar contemporary family in an Australian rural town. A good portion of the story takes place in and around a one hundred and twenty years old hotel that proudly wears its rustic timber frames and impressive history. But also contains ‘a vibrant modern look to its furnishings’ and ‘beautiful teal lounge chairs scattered in front of an open fireplace…’ This unexpected contrast gives it that extra dash of sophistication. One might say, it is a successful combination of ‘old world meeting the new’ which is reflected not only in the Hotel but also in many other aspects of the novel—even in dating. The past method of meeting people for dates in various physical locations is traded in for finding love through a dating app! And the relationships that might transpire may not always be so ‘traditional’.
The character focus in For Once in My Life initially is with fifty-year-old Jenny, a nurse, a mother and a soon to be lover. Two years earlier her husband left her for a much younger woman. Now she has to deal with her ex and the all that surrounds his newish relationship. This humiliation creates a bit of insecurity in her, as far as romantic relationships go, but the one place she is confident in is her job as a nurse. She is very good at it and we are able to see her skill in action when one of Nick’s (the barman and co-owner of the Hotel) apprentices comes in after having a horrendous accident in the kitchen. Jenny is calm, efficient and takes the emergency in hand and delivers positive results. (It is here that Nick is amazed by her abilities and is drawn to her even more.)
In the workplace she is dynamite. Her job holds her attention and takes up most of her life. Since her husband left, she has not been interested in starting another relationship. But her daughters think differently and set her up on a dating app without her knowledge or consent. When some dates roll in, they attempt to convince her to give this modern approach a chance. Reluctantly she gives in but things don’t turn out as hoped. After a few unpleasant date experiences under the watchful eye of Nick the barman (these dates are at his hotel) where he attempts to rescue her from some potentially bad experiences with men that he sees are ‘all wrong’ for her, things begin to change. Jenny realises she is attracted to Nick, a much younger man, and this age difference begins to play on her mind. Nick is also drawn to Jenny but the age difference appears to be of no concern to him.
The story is presented from two viewpoints, Jenny’s and Nick’s, and their romantic awakenings are a delight to follow. I found myself hoping they would get together as they seemed well-suited and happy. There are some dramas, of course, just as in real life curve balls can strike at any time. But the couple work out solutions that suit everyone involved. I must add, we learn a lot more about Nick’s background and (he does too!) so there are some surprise revelations.
I fully enjoyed the story and found the ending satisfying and true to the dedication in the novel. As with all Karly’s novels, I highly recommend, as they will make you smile, give your confidence a boost and show you that ‘The greatest times are still ahead.’ But another ingredient caught my attention. Being in the music industry, I often see connections between songs and stories and for Karly’s, I could not stop thinking of Steve Wonder’s For Once in My Life song that not only has the same title but carries a similar message. So it is a great song to listen to when reading and contemplating her book! And I highly recommend this 5-Star ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ upcoming heart-warming treasure.
Thanks to Allen & Unwin for my review copy.
November 26, 2023
Thank you Allen & Unwin for sending us a copy to read and review.
Superstar rural fiction author Karly Lane gives her devoted audience a second chance country romance that will delight and warm your heart.
Jenny is a nurse and living with her three daughters and granddaughter, her house is full.
Turning fifty and with her husband leaving her for a twenty something bimbo, she is busy with work and family.
So when her daughters sneakingly set up a dating profile on the internet she is tricked into the world of dating and the unknown.
Following numerous date disasters at the local pub, the owner Nick is amused at watching Jenny go on date after date, all of them a mess.
Soon the younger Nick has a huge crush on Jenny and dismissing the age difference wants to court her himself.
Can Jenny get over the age thing and find the man of her dreams………
Karly is a born storyteller and with her countrified romances there’s much to celebrate with her newest bestseller.
I adored Jenny and her family, her best friend Beth and the hunky publican Nick.
These inspiring characters are a pleasure to read about.
With some humorous moments, a little mystery, family drama and the beginnings of a love affair, the plot is successful on many levels.
This Karly Lane book you do not want to miss.
Superstar rural fiction author Karly Lane gives her devoted audience a second chance country romance that will delight and warm your heart.
Jenny is a nurse and living with her three daughters and granddaughter, her house is full.
Turning fifty and with her husband leaving her for a twenty something bimbo, she is busy with work and family.
So when her daughters sneakingly set up a dating profile on the internet she is tricked into the world of dating and the unknown.
Following numerous date disasters at the local pub, the owner Nick is amused at watching Jenny go on date after date, all of them a mess.
Soon the younger Nick has a huge crush on Jenny and dismissing the age difference wants to court her himself.
Can Jenny get over the age thing and find the man of her dreams………
Karly is a born storyteller and with her countrified romances there’s much to celebrate with her newest bestseller.
I adored Jenny and her family, her best friend Beth and the hunky publican Nick.
These inspiring characters are a pleasure to read about.
With some humorous moments, a little mystery, family drama and the beginnings of a love affair, the plot is successful on many levels.
This Karly Lane book you do not want to miss.
December 19, 2023
⭐️4.5 Stars⭐️
For Once In My Life by Karly Lane is a page turning story about divorced mother Jenny who is fifty years young and a younger man who takes an interest in her. This was fabulous, Karly is such a wonderful storyteller and her books always delight me!
Jenny’s husband of twenty seven years has left her for a younger woman but life goes on and she is happily in a job she loves at the hospital and having her adult girls living at home with her.
Jenny’s daughters and her friend Beth have sneakily created a profile for Jenny on a dating App and they coax Jenny into dating. Will it turn into a disaster for Jenny, sometimes in a rural town there is not a lot of favourable choices!
The story has humour, mystery, romance, family secrets and drama, all the ingredients for a successful plot.
Publication Date 28 November 2023
Publisher Allen & Unwin
Thank you so much Allen & Unwin for a copy of the book.
For Once In My Life by Karly Lane is a page turning story about divorced mother Jenny who is fifty years young and a younger man who takes an interest in her. This was fabulous, Karly is such a wonderful storyteller and her books always delight me!
Jenny’s husband of twenty seven years has left her for a younger woman but life goes on and she is happily in a job she loves at the hospital and having her adult girls living at home with her.
Jenny’s daughters and her friend Beth have sneakily created a profile for Jenny on a dating App and they coax Jenny into dating. Will it turn into a disaster for Jenny, sometimes in a rural town there is not a lot of favourable choices!
The story has humour, mystery, romance, family secrets and drama, all the ingredients for a successful plot.
Publication Date 28 November 2023
Publisher Allen & Unwin
Thank you so much Allen & Unwin for a copy of the book.
November 17, 2023
Thanks to NetGalley and Allen & Unwin for the opportunity to read this book.
Karly Lane is an engaging storyteller who has a knack for roping you into the story quickly and endearing the characters to you early on.
Jenny and Nick are both pretty down to earth people who are drawn together and have some hurdles to overcome if they want a relationship.
The dramas within the story are fairly predictable but not in a boring way. I really enjoyed the whole book, and it was quick and easy to finish.
Karly Lane is an engaging storyteller who has a knack for roping you into the story quickly and endearing the characters to you early on.
Jenny and Nick are both pretty down to earth people who are drawn together and have some hurdles to overcome if they want a relationship.
The dramas within the story are fairly predictable but not in a boring way. I really enjoyed the whole book, and it was quick and easy to finish.
December 4, 2023
Jenny Hayward just turned the big 5-0 and honestly, couldn't be happier. Just as long as she dedicates herself to her three daughters, granddaughter and the worthwhile nursing career she's forged, life is complete. There's absolutely no need to start or even think about dating again. Why should she, even if her husband left her for a younger woman two years ago? No thankyou.
Yeah, it's funny that her three daughters and bestie doesn't exactly share that opinion. They're worried that Jenny is lonely and needs a man in her life. So what's the best way to convince unassuming Jen? Create an online dating account in her name and setting up some pretty awkward dates. All in the same place over three days. It's little wonder barman Nick develops quite a crush on our Jen as he watches on.
There's only one small problem- Nick's much younger than Jen. Not that he really cares about such a significant age gap. Let those tounges wag. All he cares about is if Jenny is just as attracted. Surely, any initial hangups will be moot soon enough. Just as long as theres a connection, nothing else matters.
Right?
For Once In My Life is a humorous, heartwarming and relatable look at dating later in life. Karly has knocked it out of the park once again. I utterly adored everyone and everything this book provided. Please tell me that Nick's Coach House is based on a real country establishment because it's so charming and I want to stay there?
So much fun!
4.75 🌟
Yeah, it's funny that her three daughters and bestie doesn't exactly share that opinion. They're worried that Jenny is lonely and needs a man in her life. So what's the best way to convince unassuming Jen? Create an online dating account in her name and setting up some pretty awkward dates. All in the same place over three days. It's little wonder barman Nick develops quite a crush on our Jen as he watches on.
There's only one small problem- Nick's much younger than Jen. Not that he really cares about such a significant age gap. Let those tounges wag. All he cares about is if Jenny is just as attracted. Surely, any initial hangups will be moot soon enough. Just as long as theres a connection, nothing else matters.
Right?
For Once In My Life is a humorous, heartwarming and relatable look at dating later in life. Karly has knocked it out of the park once again. I utterly adored everyone and everything this book provided. Please tell me that Nick's Coach House is based on a real country establishment because it's so charming and I want to stay there?
So much fun!
4.75 🌟
July 12, 2024
For Once In My Life is the twenty-second stand-alone novel by Australian author, Karly Lane. The audio version is narrated by Nicolette Chin. At fifty, as resident nurse practitioner at the multi-purpose hospital, mother of three adult children and grandmother of one very sweet two-year-old, Jenny Hayward is quite satisfied with her life in the small NSW rural town of Barkley. She knows everyone, and everyone knows her.
But, at two years divorced from unfaithful Austin (and well rid of him!), her best friend Beth and her daughters tell her “We’ve waited patiently for you to take the first step back out into life again, and you haven’t done it. We can’t sit by any longer and watch you wither away”. They have decided she’s too young to be an old, lonely woman, and have taken action.
They’ve set her up on a dating app, and the attention garnered isn’t a surprise to them: Jenny is attractive and the interests they have listed on her profile appeal to many. She finds herself very reluctantly going on three blind dates.
After nineteen years in the army, thirty-eight-year-old Nick Mason is finally doing something he has wanted for a long time. He’s taken over The Coach House, renovated it with sensitivity for its origins, and turned it into a gastro-pub. His deal with a local beef farmer means paddock-to-plate control and, coupled with a world class (if temperamental) chef, the meals are a big draw card. The only fly in the ointment is that he could only buy the business with his career-driven, corporate, imperious older sister, Susie as his (not-so-silent) partner.
He watches as the lovely divorcee endures her three terrible blind dates and wonders why such a desirable woman is bothering with these no-hopers. He can’t help flirting and, when The Coach House hosts a Hayward family party, leaves Jenny’s ex in doubt that she is attractive to younger men. But Jenny takes a lot of convincing that his intentions are genuine, and that the age difference isn’t an issue.
Jenny succumbs to his attentions but, wary of criticism, is hesitant to make their relationship public. Her daughters, though, welcome it, and Nick “If he’s brave enough to enter the temple of oestrogen and put up with all of us, then I say he’s already proving he’s a keeper”. The course of true love doesn’t run smooth, though, and they need to overcome a few challenges before they can relax.
This is a delightful rural romance that touches on some topical issues before the happy-ever-after ending. Lane’s plot is entirely believable, her characters are appealing, and her nursing references are spot on. Very enjoyable.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Allen & Unwin.
But, at two years divorced from unfaithful Austin (and well rid of him!), her best friend Beth and her daughters tell her “We’ve waited patiently for you to take the first step back out into life again, and you haven’t done it. We can’t sit by any longer and watch you wither away”. They have decided she’s too young to be an old, lonely woman, and have taken action.
They’ve set her up on a dating app, and the attention garnered isn’t a surprise to them: Jenny is attractive and the interests they have listed on her profile appeal to many. She finds herself very reluctantly going on three blind dates.
After nineteen years in the army, thirty-eight-year-old Nick Mason is finally doing something he has wanted for a long time. He’s taken over The Coach House, renovated it with sensitivity for its origins, and turned it into a gastro-pub. His deal with a local beef farmer means paddock-to-plate control and, coupled with a world class (if temperamental) chef, the meals are a big draw card. The only fly in the ointment is that he could only buy the business with his career-driven, corporate, imperious older sister, Susie as his (not-so-silent) partner.
He watches as the lovely divorcee endures her three terrible blind dates and wonders why such a desirable woman is bothering with these no-hopers. He can’t help flirting and, when The Coach House hosts a Hayward family party, leaves Jenny’s ex in doubt that she is attractive to younger men. But Jenny takes a lot of convincing that his intentions are genuine, and that the age difference isn’t an issue.
Jenny succumbs to his attentions but, wary of criticism, is hesitant to make their relationship public. Her daughters, though, welcome it, and Nick “If he’s brave enough to enter the temple of oestrogen and put up with all of us, then I say he’s already proving he’s a keeper”. The course of true love doesn’t run smooth, though, and they need to overcome a few challenges before they can relax.
This is a delightful rural romance that touches on some topical issues before the happy-ever-after ending. Lane’s plot is entirely believable, her characters are appealing, and her nursing references are spot on. Very enjoyable.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Allen & Unwin.
December 26, 2023
A light hearted fun read about Jenny overcoming preconceived societal notions that women can't date younger men without being labelled a cougar! Throw in a family secret and the hilarious antics of 3 daughters and its the recipe for a great feel good book
December 16, 2024
Was ok for me. Not as interesting as I thought it would be.
December 3, 2023
3 1/2 stars
Karly Lane is one of my favourite authors but I seriously dithered about what rating to give this book. Jenny has hit 50 yrs, her adult daughters including a grandchild have moved back home and they and her best friend decide after 2 yrs in no man’s land of singledom, it’s time for Jenny to date. But unfortunately out in a country town, there is not much of a pool of men, let alone a pond.
Each date takes place in the newly renovated pub and she catches the eye and attention of the new bartender Nick. What business is it of his who she dates?
Ok, so I loved Jenny and Nick, especially the early interactions but I think I was initially offended by Jenny’s daughters and friend assuming that she must get out and have a life and they ‘forgot’ to delete the dating app on her request.
Anyway, maybe it’s my head space atm as I usually power through Karly Lane’s books but I put down and picked up this book so often that it became a disjointed read.
So the the uptake is maybe it’s me, not the book!
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy to read.
Karly Lane is one of my favourite authors but I seriously dithered about what rating to give this book. Jenny has hit 50 yrs, her adult daughters including a grandchild have moved back home and they and her best friend decide after 2 yrs in no man’s land of singledom, it’s time for Jenny to date. But unfortunately out in a country town, there is not much of a pool of men, let alone a pond.
Each date takes place in the newly renovated pub and she catches the eye and attention of the new bartender Nick. What business is it of his who she dates?
Ok, so I loved Jenny and Nick, especially the early interactions but I think I was initially offended by Jenny’s daughters and friend assuming that she must get out and have a life and they ‘forgot’ to delete the dating app on her request.
Anyway, maybe it’s my head space atm as I usually power through Karly Lane’s books but I put down and picked up this book so often that it became a disjointed read.
So the the uptake is maybe it’s me, not the book!
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy to read.
May 23, 2024
Jenny Hayward couldn’t believe that she was now fifty years old and had become a grandmother with adult children! In the two years since her husband walked out, Jenny had been absorbed in her family and work. But then her daughters and best friend secretly set her up with a profile on a dating app and she was unexpectedly thrust into the world of dating. Unfortunately, the men who turned up were consistently wrong for her. Even the annoying barman was a much more enjoyable company. The barman, Nick, who was more than a decade younger than her, but didn’t seem to notice any age difference at all…
I went into this one blind, and was delighted to find an age-gap romance with an older female! Jenny as the main character was solid, strong and admirable. It didn’t take long before I was fully invested, and I truly wanted her to have all the happiness in the world.
The blind date scenes were so much fun to read (not according to Jenny, obviously!). I chuckled a fair bit at a few of Jenny’s ‘adventures’. And of course, the story explored the more emotional aspects of the relationship as we went deeper into it.
I absolutely loved this book! I was kicking myself for not reading this earlier when it was published. But the upside was that I had Karly’s latest release to binge on next.
(Thanks to Allen & Unwin for a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review)
See my bookstagram review.
I went into this one blind, and was delighted to find an age-gap romance with an older female! Jenny as the main character was solid, strong and admirable. It didn’t take long before I was fully invested, and I truly wanted her to have all the happiness in the world.
The blind date scenes were so much fun to read (not according to Jenny, obviously!). I chuckled a fair bit at a few of Jenny’s ‘adventures’. And of course, the story explored the more emotional aspects of the relationship as we went deeper into it.
I absolutely loved this book! I was kicking myself for not reading this earlier when it was published. But the upside was that I had Karly’s latest release to binge on next.
(Thanks to Allen & Unwin for a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review)
See my bookstagram review.
November 19, 2023
For Once In My Life by Karla Lane is a delightful and enjoyable read.
Jenny Hayward finds herself turning fifty with adult children back home, a grandmother and an ex-husband who walked out on her for a much younger woman. Her children and her best friend decide she needs to move forward with her life so set her up on a dating app for her to meet eligible men. While she isn’t impressed with this, she does go on several dates. While going to the local hotel for these dates, the barman, Nick, takes note of her and her sequence of dates. Nick is over ten years younger than Jenny but he takes an interest in her.
A very entertaining and mostly lighthearted story with some interesting issues such as dating online or via apps, adult children returning home and while for men it has always been okay for an older man to be with a much younger woman - what about if this situation is reversed?
As I said, a very enjoyable read.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from Allen & Unwin Publishers via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
#ForOnceInMyLife #NetGalley
Jenny Hayward finds herself turning fifty with adult children back home, a grandmother and an ex-husband who walked out on her for a much younger woman. Her children and her best friend decide she needs to move forward with her life so set her up on a dating app for her to meet eligible men. While she isn’t impressed with this, she does go on several dates. While going to the local hotel for these dates, the barman, Nick, takes note of her and her sequence of dates. Nick is over ten years younger than Jenny but he takes an interest in her.
A very entertaining and mostly lighthearted story with some interesting issues such as dating online or via apps, adult children returning home and while for men it has always been okay for an older man to be with a much younger woman - what about if this situation is reversed?
As I said, a very enjoyable read.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from Allen & Unwin Publishers via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
#ForOnceInMyLife #NetGalley
December 26, 2023
For an emotionally engaging and relateable story, you can’t go past For Once In My Life. Karley Lane has created a wonderfuland admirable heroine in Jenny Hayward, a divorced 50 year-old with three adult daughters living at home, She’s content with her life and not at all impressed when they and her best friend Beth set her up on a dating app. The three dates they arrange for her are disasters in every possible way, but enter handsome publican Nick Mason. who’s twelve years younger than her—something that worries her—but otherwise her perfect match. I confess to drooling a little over Nick. He’s caring and compassionate, while thoroughly enjoying lightly poking fun at Jenny over her dreadful dates. Set in country NSW, this book had it all for me. The townspeople were just curious enough about Jenny’s love life, yet cared about her welfare. I loved that Jenny was an older heroine. I want to see more of them in the books that I read. She’s got life exoerience under her belt and it shows in the way her character has been developed. I loved this book and will definitely be putting it on my keeper shelf.
January 6, 2024
Another enjoyable rural romance read from Karly Lane. The author doesn’t really indicate where it is set except for mentioning a 12 hour drive to Toorak, a very affluent suburb of Melbourne, towards the end of the story. The novel centres around Jenny Hayward, a fifty year old nurse and divorcee, her three daughters and granddaughter who all live with her. Jenny’s daughters and best friend, Beth, decide she needs to start dating again and, unbeknownst other, place her profile on a dating app. As often happens in other stories these dates are all no hopers. Jenny, however, has caught the interest and eye of the bartender in the newly renovated pub where these dates take place. Her interest in Nick Mason is slowly kindled much to her chagrin as she is acutely conscious of the twelve year age gap. At times laugh out loud this is a light easy read although it does touch upon work place bullying, sibling rivalry, Nick’s older sister’s (a strong and cold hearted businesswoman) reluctance to accept his lifestyle, veteran suicide and small town fascination with gossip and innuendo.
January 20, 2025
Jenny thought she was done with men and relationships . . . her kids, however, had other plans. A delightful, entertaining and funny rural romance from Karly Lane, the bestselling author with over 550,000 books sold.
Jenny Hayward cannot believe that she's fifty years old and a grandmother with adult children! When did that happen? Not that long ago her three daughters were in school and Jenny was following her dream of becoming a nurse.
In the two years since her husband walked out, Jenny has been absorbed in her family and work, until her daughters and her best friend secretly set her up with a profile on a dating app and she is thrust unexpectedly into the world of dating.
However, as the dates keep coming, Jenny wonders how the people she loves the most in the world have managed so impressively to pick the wrong men for her.
The annoying barman watching on is much more enjoyable company. The barman who is more than a decade younger than her. Yet Nick doesn't seem to notice her age at all . . .
Is Jenny's next date the date of her dreams?
Jenny Hayward cannot believe that she's fifty years old and a grandmother with adult children! When did that happen? Not that long ago her three daughters were in school and Jenny was following her dream of becoming a nurse.
In the two years since her husband walked out, Jenny has been absorbed in her family and work, until her daughters and her best friend secretly set her up with a profile on a dating app and she is thrust unexpectedly into the world of dating.
However, as the dates keep coming, Jenny wonders how the people she loves the most in the world have managed so impressively to pick the wrong men for her.
The annoying barman watching on is much more enjoyable company. The barman who is more than a decade younger than her. Yet Nick doesn't seem to notice her age at all . . .
Is Jenny's next date the date of her dreams?
February 3, 2024
Jenny Hayward has been divorced for sometime now, is looking down the barrel of being fifty, and her three daughters and one grandchild live with her. She also studied to fulfill her dream of becoming a nurse.
One night she is home and feeling a little tired and wanting to have an early night when one of her daughters arrives in her room picking out some clothes and telling her to put them on as she has a date. Turns out her daughters and friend have registered her on a dating site.
She goes on her date to the Coach House Hotel and has absolutely nothing in common with her date. She feels she on better with the young barman than her date, with their banter and conversation. The next night she is once more dating at the same hotel and once again has a miss instead of hit with her date. The same barman, Nick is on duty and once again the banter starts.
Is Jenny's next date going to be the one with a connection?
One night she is home and feeling a little tired and wanting to have an early night when one of her daughters arrives in her room picking out some clothes and telling her to put them on as she has a date. Turns out her daughters and friend have registered her on a dating site.
She goes on her date to the Coach House Hotel and has absolutely nothing in common with her date. She feels she on better with the young barman than her date, with their banter and conversation. The next night she is once more dating at the same hotel and once again has a miss instead of hit with her date. The same barman, Nick is on duty and once again the banter starts.
Is Jenny's next date going to be the one with a connection?
September 18, 2024
A pleasant, feel-good read with the usual hiccups that prove that life does not always go smoothly.
Jenny thought she was done with men and relationships . . . her kids, however, had other plans. A delightful, entertaining and funny rural romance from Karly Lane, the bestselling author with over 550,000 books sold. Jenny Hayward cannot believe that she's fifty years old and a grandmother with adult children! When did that happen? Not that long ago her three daughters were in school and Jenny was following her dream of becoming a nurse. In the two years since her husband walked out, Jenny has been absorbed in her family and work, until her daughters and her best friend secretly set her up with a profile on a dating app and she is thrust unexpectedly into the world of dating. However, as the dates keep coming, Jenny wonders how the people she loves the most in the world have managed so impressively to pick the wrong men for her. The annoying barman watching on is much more enjoyable company. The barman who is more than a decade younger than her. Yet Nick doesn't seem to notice her age at all . . . Is Jenny's next date the date of her dreams?
Jenny thought she was done with men and relationships . . . her kids, however, had other plans. A delightful, entertaining and funny rural romance from Karly Lane, the bestselling author with over 550,000 books sold. Jenny Hayward cannot believe that she's fifty years old and a grandmother with adult children! When did that happen? Not that long ago her three daughters were in school and Jenny was following her dream of becoming a nurse. In the two years since her husband walked out, Jenny has been absorbed in her family and work, until her daughters and her best friend secretly set her up with a profile on a dating app and she is thrust unexpectedly into the world of dating. However, as the dates keep coming, Jenny wonders how the people she loves the most in the world have managed so impressively to pick the wrong men for her. The annoying barman watching on is much more enjoyable company. The barman who is more than a decade younger than her. Yet Nick doesn't seem to notice her age at all . . . Is Jenny's next date the date of her dreams?
March 12, 2024
Karly has easily become my comfort read Author - it’s the sense of community she creates, with relatable characters and real to life issues and events and this book was no exception.
50-Year old Jenny has been pushed back into the dating world by her cheeky daughters and this was definitely my favourite part - the relationship with her daughters is something I hope for with my daughter and the online dating and dates had me in fits of giggles - I wanted more of this.
Nick, 38-Years old, new owner of the local pub becomes fixated on Jenny, but will the age-gap put a stop to this?.. well, you’ll just have to read it to find out.
There was even a pretty big drama storyline in this one and it did play out a bit like a scene from days of our lives, but I didn’t hate it and now I want to find out what happens between these characters next.
50-Year old Jenny has been pushed back into the dating world by her cheeky daughters and this was definitely my favourite part - the relationship with her daughters is something I hope for with my daughter and the online dating and dates had me in fits of giggles - I wanted more of this.
Nick, 38-Years old, new owner of the local pub becomes fixated on Jenny, but will the age-gap put a stop to this?.. well, you’ll just have to read it to find out.
There was even a pretty big drama storyline in this one and it did play out a bit like a scene from days of our lives, but I didn’t hate it and now I want to find out what happens between these characters next.
November 23, 2024
Jenny Hayward cannot believe that she's fifty years old and a grandmother with adult children! When did that happen? Not that long ago her three daughters were in school and Jenny was following her dream of becoming a nurse.
In the two years since her husband walked out, Jenny has been absorbed in her family and work. But then her daughters and her best friend secretly set her up with a profile on a dating app and she is unexpectedly thrust into the world of dating.
However, as the dates keep coming, Jenny wonders how the people she loves the most in the world have managed so impressively to pick the wrong men for her.
The annoying barman Nick, watching on is much more enjoyable company. The barman who is more than a decade younger than her. Yet Nick doesn't seem to notice her age at all...
Is Jenny's next date the date of her dreams?
In the two years since her husband walked out, Jenny has been absorbed in her family and work. But then her daughters and her best friend secretly set her up with a profile on a dating app and she is unexpectedly thrust into the world of dating.
However, as the dates keep coming, Jenny wonders how the people she loves the most in the world have managed so impressively to pick the wrong men for her.
The annoying barman Nick, watching on is much more enjoyable company. The barman who is more than a decade younger than her. Yet Nick doesn't seem to notice her age at all...
Is Jenny's next date the date of her dreams?
December 28, 2023
I absolutely loved this story: Karly Lane never fails to disappoint!
Jenny is a 50 year old single mum of three adult daughters. At this point in her life, she is comfortable with where and who she is and enjoys relaxing at home after a long day. However, her daughters and best friend feel she needs male companionship so sign her up to an online dating app without her knowledge and arrange a string of disastrous dates for her. The only reliable male seems to be the bartender at the rebranded pub she goes to. Little does she know, Nick will become one of the most important people in her life. But will their relationship be able to survive the secrets of Nick's childhood?
Very easy to read, a great story.
Jenny is a 50 year old single mum of three adult daughters. At this point in her life, she is comfortable with where and who she is and enjoys relaxing at home after a long day. However, her daughters and best friend feel she needs male companionship so sign her up to an online dating app without her knowledge and arrange a string of disastrous dates for her. The only reliable male seems to be the bartender at the rebranded pub she goes to. Little does she know, Nick will become one of the most important people in her life. But will their relationship be able to survive the secrets of Nick's childhood?
Very easy to read, a great story.
January 14, 2024
I gave For Once in My Life a 3 star review but would have happily made it 3 1/2 stars if we were able to.
I don't relate in a review a books plot/theme/outcome in reviewing because everyone else does that. I prefer to talk about writing style and quality of the read.
This story of Karly Lane's is written in her usual tight style with perhaps a bit too much waffle.
It's an easy read, predictable outcome but reasonably enjoyable. Not riveting, or a story which will keep you besotted until the last page but if you're looking for something light, well written and to relax with, this book is a good choice.
I don't relate in a review a books plot/theme/outcome in reviewing because everyone else does that. I prefer to talk about writing style and quality of the read.
This story of Karly Lane's is written in her usual tight style with perhaps a bit too much waffle.
It's an easy read, predictable outcome but reasonably enjoyable. Not riveting, or a story which will keep you besotted until the last page but if you're looking for something light, well written and to relax with, this book is a good choice.
April 4, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Karly Lane latest book For Once in my life. Jenny Hayward 50 year old divorced mother of three grown daughters and a little granddaughter. Living in Barkley Nick Mason 38 year old Bartender and owner of the local pub. Jenny daughters and her best friend set her up on a dating app to find love again. Nick watches her go on three dates at the pub. They slowly get to know each other and then find them selves falling for each other. It was a nice rural romance to read, but I felt that the way it ended needed more to it I hope there is a follow up book.
June 13, 2024
Jenny and Nick's story.
The story line is real to life for some out there.
Kids returning back to childhood home due to cost of living, accepted. (some parents have a hard time with kids that won't leave).
Being a single mother is hard work. Education can be a good motivator but room for those that don't make the grade. Divorce isn't pleasant also particularly one sided sometimes amicable.
Dating sights a hazard or addictive. Romance story not my story. Thank my local library for this book.
The story line is real to life for some out there.
Kids returning back to childhood home due to cost of living, accepted. (some parents have a hard time with kids that won't leave).
Being a single mother is hard work. Education can be a good motivator but room for those that don't make the grade. Divorce isn't pleasant also particularly one sided sometimes amicable.
Dating sights a hazard or addictive. Romance story not my story. Thank my local library for this book.
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