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It's Now or Never: An emotional, uplifting romance from Jill Steeples
‘For Jen Faraday - Not to be opened, in any circumstances, for one year!’ When smooth-talking Alex Fellows tells Jen Faraday he can predict her future – and leaves a note with a bartender for her to collect in one year’s time – she thinks it’s just a chat up line. After all, how can a man she’s known for one night see what her future holds? But if she had to predict her own future it wouldn’t be pretty. So far her life has been a series of things she hasn’t done. She didn’t go to college – family trouble. She didn’t get married – dumped. And she hasn’t yet handed in her notice at work – too scared!
But could this be the year she takes control of her destiny? With her best friend heading down the aisle, and even her beloved grandfather having more romance in his life than she does, Jen knows it’s now or never. And whatever Alex’s prediction says – and how Jen wishes she knew – she’s beginning to wonder if he may play a part in her future plans…
Join Jill Steeples for this funny, fresh romance, perfect for fans of Trisha Ashley, Heidi Swain and Phillipa Ashley.
What readers say about Jill
‘Really enjoy the stories this author writes... hooked on reading from the first paragraph to the last…’
‘The book is a lovely read from start to end. Love can blossom at any point, even when you don't look for it.’
‘Jill Steeples is one of my favourite authors…This is the book to curl up with, it's like a warm hug, that you absolutely lose yourself in.’
‘Jill has a writing style that makes the reader feel as though they are part of the story and at the heart of the action. Jill's love for her characters shines through in the very vivid and realistic way in which she describes them. In fact the characters ended up feeling more like friends rather than characters in a book.’
‘It is always nice to escape with a good book and this book will whisk you away. A great, uplifting read that is sure to put a smile on your face.’ ‘Jill Steeples’s experienced hand crafts perfect and engaging stories, well rounded characters and wonderful romance. I can wholeheartedly recommend any of Jill’s books to make you smile and feel a little warmer inside than when you began.’
But could this be the year she takes control of her destiny? With her best friend heading down the aisle, and even her beloved grandfather having more romance in his life than she does, Jen knows it’s now or never. And whatever Alex’s prediction says – and how Jen wishes she knew – she’s beginning to wonder if he may play a part in her future plans…
Join Jill Steeples for this funny, fresh romance, perfect for fans of Trisha Ashley, Heidi Swain and Phillipa Ashley.
What readers say about Jill
‘Really enjoy the stories this author writes... hooked on reading from the first paragraph to the last…’
‘The book is a lovely read from start to end. Love can blossom at any point, even when you don't look for it.’
‘Jill Steeples is one of my favourite authors…This is the book to curl up with, it's like a warm hug, that you absolutely lose yourself in.’
‘Jill has a writing style that makes the reader feel as though they are part of the story and at the heart of the action. Jill's love for her characters shines through in the very vivid and realistic way in which she describes them. In fact the characters ended up feeling more like friends rather than characters in a book.’
‘It is always nice to escape with a good book and this book will whisk you away. A great, uplifting read that is sure to put a smile on your face.’ ‘Jill Steeples’s experienced hand crafts perfect and engaging stories, well rounded characters and wonderful romance. I can wholeheartedly recommend any of Jill’s books to make you smile and feel a little warmer inside than when you began.’
226 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 11, 2015
253 people are currently reading
209 people want to read
About the author
Jill Steeples
35 books234 followersAuthor also writes as J.E. Steeples
Jill Steeples lives in a small market town in Bedfordshire with her husband. When she’s not writing, she enjoys reading, walking, crocheting, musical theatre, baking cakes, eating them and the occasional tipple.
From an early age she fell in love with the fabulously funny romances of Jilly Cooper, and vowed, one day, she would have a go at writing one of her own.
Jill started her career writing short stories, particularly those with a twist in the tail, and her work has appeared in popular women’s magazines around the world and in a number of charity anthologies.
Now she writes feel-good, uplifting fiction for Boldwood Books and her works include The Dog & Duck series and The Primrose Woods series.
Jill Steeples lives in a small market town in Bedfordshire with her husband. When she’s not writing, she enjoys reading, walking, crocheting, musical theatre, baking cakes, eating them and the occasional tipple.
From an early age she fell in love with the fabulously funny romances of Jilly Cooper, and vowed, one day, she would have a go at writing one of her own.
Jill started her career writing short stories, particularly those with a twist in the tail, and her work has appeared in popular women’s magazines around the world and in a number of charity anthologies.
Now she writes feel-good, uplifting fiction for Boldwood Books and her works include The Dog & Duck series and The Primrose Woods series.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
September 11, 2015
Originally reviewed on http://beccasbooooks.blogspot.co.uk/2...
It feels as if it has been forever since I was last able to get my hands on a novel by Jill Steeples, but I'm well aware of how much work goes on behind scenes for an author, so I was more than happy to wait for It's Now Or Never, Jill's latest release. Before now, I've had the pleasure of reading Hopelessly Devoted to You and Let's Call the Whole Thing Off, both of which I read last year and both of which I thoroughly enjoyed! Therefore, I was very excited when I heard about Jill's newest novel and even more so when I clapped eyes on that gorgeous cover! It screamed out new beginnings and perhaps even an adventure! What also seriously piqued my interest was that deliciously tantalising opening to the blurb of It's Now or Never...
'For Jen Faraday - Not to be opened, in any circumstances, until April 2016'
What became clear to me pretty much from the get-go was that Jen Faraday felt she hadn't done all that much with her life, despite having had plans as an eighteen-year-old make herself some memories. There'd been no adventure or risk-taking, wild holidays with the girls or drunken nights on yachts in the middle of a glittering sea. What adds to the rocking of Jen Faraday's lifeboat is the announcement of her best friend Angie's wedding, and this is when she realises that she truly is falling behind. And then, in her grandpa's house, Jen stumbles upon the letter that her mother had written for her years before, in which Jen is given that much-needed motherly boost which encourages her to take control of her destiny and for the first time ever, take a chance on life! I adored the element of the letter from Jen's mother and I won't deny that it moved me to tears. It added such a warm, bright tone to what had previously been quite miserable as Jen assessed her life so far. It spoke of determination, courage and taking a leap of faith, and it truly was a brilliant way to kick-start Jen's story. Alongside this, Jen stumbles across rich and handsome Alex at Angie's wedding who charms her completely, but who apparently knows exactly how her life is going to pan out for the next year. Adding to that, he not only makes this wild and, quite frankly, ridiculous prediction, but he also goes as far as writing this prediction down onto a slip of paper, folding it up, and then passes it to the bartender at the pub which they escape to once the wedding is over. I'm telling you now, I don't think I've ever been so twitchy about wanting to know what was written on that piece of paper, but it certainly taunted me throughout my reading of the book. I wanted to know so desperately what Alex had predicted almost as much as I wanted to know whether he'd turn out to be right or wrong. It was fantastic.
Throughout the progression of this novel, a ton of things crept into the plot to keep me turning the pages. Alongside Jen's own journey of self-discovery, Jill included the amusing circumstances surrounding Jen's granddad, the creation of a blog which Jen had wanted to do for some time now, and lots of relationship to and froing! It was entertaining, exciting and a thoroughly enjoyable read, another winner with me from the wonderful Jill Steeples! Jill's creativity really comes into play within this novel, and it was evident from the way in which the author wrote that her characters meant a lot to her, as they did to me by the time Jen's story came to an end.
Becca's Books is awarding It's Now or Never by Jill Steeples with FOUR YUMMY CUPCAKES! An intriguing premise, a mysterious prediction for the future, and the unceasing need to find out what exactly Alex had slipped behind that bar!
It feels as if it has been forever since I was last able to get my hands on a novel by Jill Steeples, but I'm well aware of how much work goes on behind scenes for an author, so I was more than happy to wait for It's Now Or Never, Jill's latest release. Before now, I've had the pleasure of reading Hopelessly Devoted to You and Let's Call the Whole Thing Off, both of which I read last year and both of which I thoroughly enjoyed! Therefore, I was very excited when I heard about Jill's newest novel and even more so when I clapped eyes on that gorgeous cover! It screamed out new beginnings and perhaps even an adventure! What also seriously piqued my interest was that deliciously tantalising opening to the blurb of It's Now or Never...
'For Jen Faraday - Not to be opened, in any circumstances, until April 2016'
What became clear to me pretty much from the get-go was that Jen Faraday felt she hadn't done all that much with her life, despite having had plans as an eighteen-year-old make herself some memories. There'd been no adventure or risk-taking, wild holidays with the girls or drunken nights on yachts in the middle of a glittering sea. What adds to the rocking of Jen Faraday's lifeboat is the announcement of her best friend Angie's wedding, and this is when she realises that she truly is falling behind. And then, in her grandpa's house, Jen stumbles upon the letter that her mother had written for her years before, in which Jen is given that much-needed motherly boost which encourages her to take control of her destiny and for the first time ever, take a chance on life! I adored the element of the letter from Jen's mother and I won't deny that it moved me to tears. It added such a warm, bright tone to what had previously been quite miserable as Jen assessed her life so far. It spoke of determination, courage and taking a leap of faith, and it truly was a brilliant way to kick-start Jen's story. Alongside this, Jen stumbles across rich and handsome Alex at Angie's wedding who charms her completely, but who apparently knows exactly how her life is going to pan out for the next year. Adding to that, he not only makes this wild and, quite frankly, ridiculous prediction, but he also goes as far as writing this prediction down onto a slip of paper, folding it up, and then passes it to the bartender at the pub which they escape to once the wedding is over. I'm telling you now, I don't think I've ever been so twitchy about wanting to know what was written on that piece of paper, but it certainly taunted me throughout my reading of the book. I wanted to know so desperately what Alex had predicted almost as much as I wanted to know whether he'd turn out to be right or wrong. It was fantastic.
Throughout the progression of this novel, a ton of things crept into the plot to keep me turning the pages. Alongside Jen's own journey of self-discovery, Jill included the amusing circumstances surrounding Jen's granddad, the creation of a blog which Jen had wanted to do for some time now, and lots of relationship to and froing! It was entertaining, exciting and a thoroughly enjoyable read, another winner with me from the wonderful Jill Steeples! Jill's creativity really comes into play within this novel, and it was evident from the way in which the author wrote that her characters meant a lot to her, as they did to me by the time Jen's story came to an end.
Becca's Books is awarding It's Now or Never by Jill Steeples with FOUR YUMMY CUPCAKES! An intriguing premise, a mysterious prediction for the future, and the unceasing need to find out what exactly Alex had slipped behind that bar!
June 28, 2015
Jen Faraday is a bit disillusioned with her life. She’s just split with a boyfriend and when she meets Alex in a bar he says he can tell exactly what her future holds and puts a note behind the bar for her to open in a year.
Is it time for her to take her life in hand and MAKE things happen? What would we all do if we could shape our lives again? Is it time to quit her dead end job and find something that she really wants to do? She starts a blog- what will we learn about her over the coming year?
A really interesting premise and I enjoyed this one.
Many thanks to Net Galley for a copy of this book
Is it time for her to take her life in hand and MAKE things happen? What would we all do if we could shape our lives again? Is it time to quit her dead end job and find something that she really wants to do? She starts a blog- what will we learn about her over the coming year?
A really interesting premise and I enjoyed this one.
Many thanks to Net Galley for a copy of this book
July 6, 2015
I really loved this story about Jen and Alex who meet at a friend's wedding, then keep bumping into each other throughout the next year. Jen feels life is passing her by. She's been dumped by her boyfriend, her best friend is rather unexpectedly getting married and she is still in the same job she has been doing since she left school. Her mother died a few years ago putting her plans to go to University on hold. Jen re-reads a letter her mother wrote to her when she knew she was dying and in it she urges her daughter to grab all the opportunities life gives her. Inspired by this, Jen resigns from her job determined to make this year different.
Alex could be just the man to make this year different. He is totally gorgeous and they hit it off at their mutual friends' wedding. Sneaking off to a pub, Alex claims to be able to tell the future and writes a letter which Jen isn't allowed to open for a year. Like Jen, I was desperate to know what was in this letter but Alex has left it behind the bar with strict instructions that's she not to get it!
I really like the way the relationship between Jen and Alex unfolded throughout the novel. Jen has been warned by her friend that Alex is a bit of a ladies man and though she is really attracted to him, she doesn't want her heart broken so resists involvement. Alex is very keen to see Jen again and they do keep meeting each other in unexpected places. It was a bit infuriating that Jen just didn't seem to want to give Alex a chance as he seemed such a lovely, caring guy. I wanted to give her a shake and tell her to live a little!
I also really liked the relationship between Jen and her grandfather. They have always been there for each other following the death of Jen's mum and grandmother. They have such an easy-going relationship. This is threatened by the arrival of another lady in her grandfather's life which puts Jen's nose out of joint a bit. A health scare soon makes her realise what is important though - family and happiness.
As it got near the end of this book and the year was up, I was racing through the pages to see exactly what Alex had written in the letter. Had he really predicted the future? What kind of things had he written and had they come true? Well of course, you'll need to read the book yourself to find out but suffice to say, I had a bit smile on my face by the end! Funny, feel-good and charming - a really lovely story.
Alex could be just the man to make this year different. He is totally gorgeous and they hit it off at their mutual friends' wedding. Sneaking off to a pub, Alex claims to be able to tell the future and writes a letter which Jen isn't allowed to open for a year. Like Jen, I was desperate to know what was in this letter but Alex has left it behind the bar with strict instructions that's she not to get it!
I really like the way the relationship between Jen and Alex unfolded throughout the novel. Jen has been warned by her friend that Alex is a bit of a ladies man and though she is really attracted to him, she doesn't want her heart broken so resists involvement. Alex is very keen to see Jen again and they do keep meeting each other in unexpected places. It was a bit infuriating that Jen just didn't seem to want to give Alex a chance as he seemed such a lovely, caring guy. I wanted to give her a shake and tell her to live a little!
I also really liked the relationship between Jen and her grandfather. They have always been there for each other following the death of Jen's mum and grandmother. They have such an easy-going relationship. This is threatened by the arrival of another lady in her grandfather's life which puts Jen's nose out of joint a bit. A health scare soon makes her realise what is important though - family and happiness.
As it got near the end of this book and the year was up, I was racing through the pages to see exactly what Alex had written in the letter. Had he really predicted the future? What kind of things had he written and had they come true? Well of course, you'll need to read the book yourself to find out but suffice to say, I had a bit smile on my face by the end! Funny, feel-good and charming - a really lovely story.
January 18, 2016
I LOVED this book! This was one of those feel good stories. Alex made me smile, and his letter to Jen was just the sweetest thing. It makes you want that kind of certainty- you know when you first see them kind of love. I liked the fact that Jen found herself, and by the end was taking charge of her life and what she wanted. It made her feel more like a real person and not just a flat character in a book. I would recommend this book to anyone!
**I received a copy from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for a review**
**I received a copy from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for a review**
March 5, 2025
A contemporary romance set in the UK; entertaining but just so.
The setting is pretty standard: a woman in her late twenties, having some kind of life crisis, fresh from a breakup after a long relationship, unsatisfied with her work, still recovering from the loss of close relatives and trying to make changes in her life meets an incredibly handsome, clever, rich (add all the good bits) man who, apparently, has commitment issues. The attraction is immediate but there's some conflict, misunderstandings and trust issues until they reach their happy ending (which also includes a successful new career, more self-confidence and more maturity for her). As I said, pretty standard, which isn't a bad thing, because many romance stories follow this pattern. What makes the difference is how the story is delivered (the devil is in the details).
Here, the delivery is ok, but not thrilling. There's a funny scene, but it's not a comedy; there's some angst, but not deep feelings (luckily, it's not mawkish either); there's some sweetness, without being saccharine; the chemistry between the couple is ok but not too compelling... One original detail is the letter, written in their first encounter and to be opened after a year; not only is it original, it also adds a bit of "suspense" to the story. However, in the end, it felt a bit flat. Perhaps it has to do with the male protagonist, who's meant to be a Casanova, but instead behaves like a really patient, persistent and nice guy and, yet, doesn't seem to feel too much, so the letter contents don't tally with his actions and words. Or perhaps it's the female protagonist, who keeps bringing up the same objections and doesn't seem to know what she really wants (honestly, she seems a bit undeserving of all the attention and opportunities he gives her). The thing is that, in the end, the book didn't hook me, nor was I especially moved, but it didn't bore me either.
The setting is pretty standard: a woman in her late twenties, having some kind of life crisis, fresh from a breakup after a long relationship, unsatisfied with her work, still recovering from the loss of close relatives and trying to make changes in her life meets an incredibly handsome, clever, rich (add all the good bits) man who, apparently, has commitment issues. The attraction is immediate but there's some conflict, misunderstandings and trust issues until they reach their happy ending (which also includes a successful new career, more self-confidence and more maturity for her). As I said, pretty standard, which isn't a bad thing, because many romance stories follow this pattern. What makes the difference is how the story is delivered (the devil is in the details).
Here, the delivery is ok, but not thrilling. There's a funny scene, but it's not a comedy; there's some angst, but not deep feelings (luckily, it's not mawkish either); there's some sweetness, without being saccharine; the chemistry between the couple is ok but not too compelling... One original detail is the letter, written in their first encounter and to be opened after a year; not only is it original, it also adds a bit of "suspense" to the story. However, in the end, it felt a bit flat. Perhaps it has to do with the male protagonist, who's meant to be a Casanova, but instead behaves like a really patient, persistent and nice guy and, yet, doesn't seem to feel too much, so the letter contents don't tally with his actions and words. Or perhaps it's the female protagonist, who keeps bringing up the same objections and doesn't seem to know what she really wants (honestly, she seems a bit undeserving of all the attention and opportunities he gives her). The thing is that, in the end, the book didn't hook me, nor was I especially moved, but it didn't bore me either.
August 18, 2021
Originally posted on Dreaming With Open Eyes
I kindly received a review copy in exchange for an honest review by the publisher via Netgalley.
In 2021 I have set the goal of reading as many books as possible from my NetGalley Shelf. To increase my percentage. Especially those books that have been lying on the shelf for years, waiting to be read. One of them was It’s Now or Never by Jill Steeples. In the past I endjoyed her books and I was looking forward finally readying this novel. Let me give you a quick overview of what the book is about.
Jen has been in a nine-year relationship with her long-term boyfriend. The planning for the future wedding was already in full swing. The newly engaged were visiting bridal fairs, deciding on color scheme and so on. Anyway, that was until Paul had pulled the rug from beneath her feet and called the wedding off. Her life was on hold while everyone around her was moving forward with their lives.
Jen's gramps hands her a letter from her mum, that she had read shortly after her mum's death, but hasn't thought about or re-read since. She reads this letter and with the urging from her mum, she decides to make various life changes and become the woman her Mum was so certain she was destined to be. It`s now or never! First she quits her job. She became quite busy with temporary jobs and starting her own blog. In the meantime, at her best friend wedding she meets handsome Alex who charms her completely, but who apparently knows exactly how her life is going to pan out for the next year, because when they go out for a drink after the wedding Alex writes his prediction on a piece of paper and hands it to the bartender not to open for Jen until until a year has passed. What will happen in that year? Will Jen stand up for herself and change her life for the better and finally do the things she hasn't done? There is only one way to find out :-)
Overall, I liked and enjoyed the story of It’s Now or Never. In the beginning I was really intrigued by the premisis of this novel. I found It’s Now or Never to be a very slow starter, but once it got going, I was finding it harder to put down. Although I've got mixed feeling about this book.
I absolutely liked Jen, Alex, and the other side characters and I enjoyed following their story. I was able to connect very well with Jen because we have a lot in common. I'm currently in a very similar situation to her. After 9 years I will leave my job and make a fresh start. So I could understand very well how she felt. Nevertheless, I have to say that I found it a bit off putting that the story was so superficial. In my opinion it’s laking of details so that the reader can empathize with the story and the characters. For example, we never find out what happened in Jen’s previous relationship. Why was she so defensive in front of Alex (her best friends warning can't just be the only reason)? Anyway, the book is well written and the dialogues tangible. It doesn’t change the fact that I still think that Jill Steeples is a great storyteller. I am looking forward to her brand new books in 2022.
I kindly received a review copy in exchange for an honest review by the publisher via Netgalley.
In 2021 I have set the goal of reading as many books as possible from my NetGalley Shelf. To increase my percentage. Especially those books that have been lying on the shelf for years, waiting to be read. One of them was It’s Now or Never by Jill Steeples. In the past I endjoyed her books and I was looking forward finally readying this novel. Let me give you a quick overview of what the book is about.
Jen has been in a nine-year relationship with her long-term boyfriend. The planning for the future wedding was already in full swing. The newly engaged were visiting bridal fairs, deciding on color scheme and so on. Anyway, that was until Paul had pulled the rug from beneath her feet and called the wedding off. Her life was on hold while everyone around her was moving forward with their lives.
Jen's gramps hands her a letter from her mum, that she had read shortly after her mum's death, but hasn't thought about or re-read since. She reads this letter and with the urging from her mum, she decides to make various life changes and become the woman her Mum was so certain she was destined to be. It`s now or never! First she quits her job. She became quite busy with temporary jobs and starting her own blog. In the meantime, at her best friend wedding she meets handsome Alex who charms her completely, but who apparently knows exactly how her life is going to pan out for the next year, because when they go out for a drink after the wedding Alex writes his prediction on a piece of paper and hands it to the bartender not to open for Jen until until a year has passed. What will happen in that year? Will Jen stand up for herself and change her life for the better and finally do the things she hasn't done? There is only one way to find out :-)
Overall, I liked and enjoyed the story of It’s Now or Never. In the beginning I was really intrigued by the premisis of this novel. I found It’s Now or Never to be a very slow starter, but once it got going, I was finding it harder to put down. Although I've got mixed feeling about this book.
I absolutely liked Jen, Alex, and the other side characters and I enjoyed following their story. I was able to connect very well with Jen because we have a lot in common. I'm currently in a very similar situation to her. After 9 years I will leave my job and make a fresh start. So I could understand very well how she felt. Nevertheless, I have to say that I found it a bit off putting that the story was so superficial. In my opinion it’s laking of details so that the reader can empathize with the story and the characters. For example, we never find out what happened in Jen’s previous relationship. Why was she so defensive in front of Alex (her best friends warning can't just be the only reason)? Anyway, the book is well written and the dialogues tangible. It doesn’t change the fact that I still think that Jill Steeples is a great storyteller. I am looking forward to her brand new books in 2022.
August 30, 2018
A nice quick read with a decent main character. Jen has gotten bored with her job and life in general and after rereading an old letter from her deceased mom takes the advice of "Life is to short" and decides to make some changes. The story had some oddities to it, the chili jam idea was not something that would have appealed to me but there are a lot of strange food combinations that have become popular throughout the last decade or so, so maybe it could work. Alex's letter that he had put away for Jen was something that I wasn't expecting and that was probably the highlight of the entire story for me. I'll definitely be looking into other books written by this author later on.
January 15, 2023
Another lovely story from author Jill Steeples, was fun and entertaining from start to finish.
I liked getting to know the characters, especially seeing how things developed between Jen and Alex, they clearly have chemistry and yet Jen kept pushing Alex away, which I can understand her reasons for doing so but she did go about things in the wrong way. I actually felt quite sorry for Alex at times, but yay for him being persistent and not letting Jen get away from him.
There were other characters within the story that had their own little stories going on, which was nice as it added to the whole enjoyment of the story.
I liked getting to know the characters, especially seeing how things developed between Jen and Alex, they clearly have chemistry and yet Jen kept pushing Alex away, which I can understand her reasons for doing so but she did go about things in the wrong way. I actually felt quite sorry for Alex at times, but yay for him being persistent and not letting Jen get away from him.
There were other characters within the story that had their own little stories going on, which was nice as it added to the whole enjoyment of the story.
December 29, 2024
I quite liked the premise of the book and seemed a good concept it wasn’t my favourite read unfortunately. There is also a line in one of the later chapters when Jen is giving Tom a piece of her mind where the writing seems to have messed up. Jen says “Jen is my best friend” I think it’s meant to say Angie is my best friend, probably needs amending.
August 14, 2025
This book was lovely. I really enjoyed all the characters. Jen could be incredibly frustrating sometimes, it's like, make up your own mind and take a chance for crying out loud. Oh and that letter...wow.
July 28, 2024
I always love Jill Steeples, this wasn't one of her best, but still an enjoyable read
September 28, 2024
Lovely story
I really enjoyed reading this book a very uplifting romance not read any Jill Steeples books before but I will definitely be reading more .
I really enjoyed reading this book a very uplifting romance not read any Jill Steeples books before but I will definitely be reading more .
November 2, 2024
Interesting concept and storyline with a happy ending. Quick read.
November 10, 2024
fun easy read
It’s a great weekend read that is light and easy to read book. It Will definitely keep you turning the pages.
It’s a great weekend read that is light and easy to read book. It Will definitely keep you turning the pages.
November 19, 2024
Easy, enjoyable read.
November 27, 2024
An easy feel good read. Lots of lovely characters going through changes in their lives with finding their way.
December 5, 2024
So badly written. Unutterable drivel. No story line whatsoever. So so boring...kept waiting for something to happen!!
October 25, 2025
I am a sucker for a good romance
June 26, 2015
It's always such a pleasure when I hear there's a new Jill Steeples book out. She's become one of my favourite authors and I love her quirky storytelling. I've really enjoyed her three previous books and was super excited to get stuck into It's Now Or Never, and while it was an enjoyable story, it didn't blow me away, which actually made me so sad.
The premise of the story was awesome - Jen meets a guy, Alex, who leaves her a note in a bar for her to open exactly a year later revealing her future, and I liked that it was the catalyst for Jen to change her life. Except, she changes her life and we're only told about it afterward - for example, Jen starts a blog and we don't see its beginnings, we just see when it's popular (the typical fictional blogger who's famous after one post). There was too much showing, and not enough telling. The months whizz past - in fact, I'm almost sure the timeline wasn't right; because we somehow skipped Christmas without nary a mention??? It was all just a bit rushed, with too many months skipped; and only being told afterward what Jen was up to. I wanted to see her become a success, see her branch out on her own, and not just be told it.
I absolutely loved Alex, which made Jen's prejudices of him hard to swallow, because it was all based on word of mouth and perhaps a bit of her own fear, but Jen never actually gave Alex the opportunity to defend himself against all her accusations. It was so frustrating to see her blow hot and cold, and it surprised me that Alex was so willing to just put up with it.
Don't get me wrong, this was not a bad book. I did like Jen, a lot, I just wished she was less indecisive, and stopped worrying about some unknown woman with pearl earrings. She seemed like such a strong character that it was hard to see why she was so nervous of Alex, of putting her heart on the line. I understand she had planned to marry her boyfriend of 9 years, but that's all we know of it, so it's not as if we know if it destroyed her trust in men or anything, because we're never told. When Jen and Alex are together, it's quite magical, and it was clear to me that they had something special. I also loved Jen's relationship with her Gramps, although her negativity towards Marcie was baffling. Yes, her nan was gone, but surely she would want her Gramps to be happy?
This was a topsy-turvy read for me. I wanted to love it, but there was a lot about the novel that I just couldn't get on board with. Jill's one of the finest Chick Lit writers around, I will always read her novels, this one just disappointed me a little bit, especially with the ending. Where was my big romantic scene?? There was like this big reveal and then nothing really happened. Where was the rain and the romantic scene, etc? :(
The premise of the story was awesome - Jen meets a guy, Alex, who leaves her a note in a bar for her to open exactly a year later revealing her future, and I liked that it was the catalyst for Jen to change her life. Except, she changes her life and we're only told about it afterward - for example, Jen starts a blog and we don't see its beginnings, we just see when it's popular (the typical fictional blogger who's famous after one post). There was too much showing, and not enough telling. The months whizz past - in fact, I'm almost sure the timeline wasn't right; because we somehow skipped Christmas without nary a mention??? It was all just a bit rushed, with too many months skipped; and only being told afterward what Jen was up to. I wanted to see her become a success, see her branch out on her own, and not just be told it.
I absolutely loved Alex, which made Jen's prejudices of him hard to swallow, because it was all based on word of mouth and perhaps a bit of her own fear, but Jen never actually gave Alex the opportunity to defend himself against all her accusations. It was so frustrating to see her blow hot and cold, and it surprised me that Alex was so willing to just put up with it.
Don't get me wrong, this was not a bad book. I did like Jen, a lot, I just wished she was less indecisive, and stopped worrying about some unknown woman with pearl earrings. She seemed like such a strong character that it was hard to see why she was so nervous of Alex, of putting her heart on the line. I understand she had planned to marry her boyfriend of 9 years, but that's all we know of it, so it's not as if we know if it destroyed her trust in men or anything, because we're never told. When Jen and Alex are together, it's quite magical, and it was clear to me that they had something special. I also loved Jen's relationship with her Gramps, although her negativity towards Marcie was baffling. Yes, her nan was gone, but surely she would want her Gramps to be happy?
This was a topsy-turvy read for me. I wanted to love it, but there was a lot about the novel that I just couldn't get on board with. Jill's one of the finest Chick Lit writers around, I will always read her novels, this one just disappointed me a little bit, especially with the ending. Where was my big romantic scene?? There was like this big reveal and then nothing really happened. Where was the rain and the romantic scene, etc? :(
June 29, 2015
3.5 Stars
Jill Steeples seems to be one of those authors that I had been buying all of her releases, and then due to the age old problem of so many enticing books and so little time, I have failed to read anything by her until now. So once I spotted this new book by Jill on Netgalley, I couldn't resist, knowing I would definitely read it from that source. And I am so glad that I have taken the punt, and that I already have more books by Jill Steeple ready for me, as I loved this book.
It's Now or Never had a very interesting premise - Jen meets Alex at her best friend's wedding, they go to the pub afterwards, get talking and he writes a prediction for the future, that he leaves in the bar for Jen to collect 1 year later, and for her only the to see how good his predictions for the future really are.
In the mean time, Jen's gramps hands her a letter from her mum, that she had read shortly after her mum's death, but hasn't thought about or re-read since. She reads this letter and with the urging from her mum, she decides to make various life changes.
I found this to be a very light hearted, easy to read book, that was very enjoyable, but at times did feel a bit shallow. I would have preferred the book to be a bit longer, and to have included more depth, especially to main characters Jen and Alex, so that I felt like I knew them a bit better.
Jen in her changes in work, becomes very busy, but also takes on a couple of temp jobs. Her first temp job is well worth reading about, it was hilarious, while the small amount of details we get about another one of her temping gigs, sounded as boring as it made Jen!
We also see a lot from Jen and Alex's best friends Angie and Tom. But again my main problem with them is although they were clearly side characters, they didn't feel very fleshed out. They just made the odd appearance.
The lack of depth, made it harder for me to really feel anything for the characters, to really care or empathise. So although I loved the book, I have had to reduce the rating I have given it, as ultimately I like feeling as though I know my characters fully. Apart from that I loved the fast pacing of the story, the sense of humour in it and when you finally find out what the prediction letter says, I was shocked (in a good way!).
It's Now or Never is fabulous for when you want a nice quick book, if you only like easy reading on holiday then this would be great to take with you.
Thank you so much to Carina and Netgalley for my copy of this book. This was my honest review.
Jill Steeples seems to be one of those authors that I had been buying all of her releases, and then due to the age old problem of so many enticing books and so little time, I have failed to read anything by her until now. So once I spotted this new book by Jill on Netgalley, I couldn't resist, knowing I would definitely read it from that source. And I am so glad that I have taken the punt, and that I already have more books by Jill Steeple ready for me, as I loved this book.
It's Now or Never had a very interesting premise - Jen meets Alex at her best friend's wedding, they go to the pub afterwards, get talking and he writes a prediction for the future, that he leaves in the bar for Jen to collect 1 year later, and for her only the to see how good his predictions for the future really are.
In the mean time, Jen's gramps hands her a letter from her mum, that she had read shortly after her mum's death, but hasn't thought about or re-read since. She reads this letter and with the urging from her mum, she decides to make various life changes.
I found this to be a very light hearted, easy to read book, that was very enjoyable, but at times did feel a bit shallow. I would have preferred the book to be a bit longer, and to have included more depth, especially to main characters Jen and Alex, so that I felt like I knew them a bit better.
Jen in her changes in work, becomes very busy, but also takes on a couple of temp jobs. Her first temp job is well worth reading about, it was hilarious, while the small amount of details we get about another one of her temping gigs, sounded as boring as it made Jen!
We also see a lot from Jen and Alex's best friends Angie and Tom. But again my main problem with them is although they were clearly side characters, they didn't feel very fleshed out. They just made the odd appearance.
The lack of depth, made it harder for me to really feel anything for the characters, to really care or empathise. So although I loved the book, I have had to reduce the rating I have given it, as ultimately I like feeling as though I know my characters fully. Apart from that I loved the fast pacing of the story, the sense of humour in it and when you finally find out what the prediction letter says, I was shocked (in a good way!).
It's Now or Never is fabulous for when you want a nice quick book, if you only like easy reading on holiday then this would be great to take with you.
Thank you so much to Carina and Netgalley for my copy of this book. This was my honest review.
July 21, 2015
It's Now or Never is the first book I had read by Jill Steeples and I must say I have discovered yet another wonderful writer and a book that is written so effortlessly and beautifully that I am very pleased to share my review with you all!
The main character in the story is Jen Faraday, she is a very relatable heroin who is trying to find that something special in her life. Although she has a very comfortable job (for past 9 years!) there is certainly something lacking in her other life departments. When Jen visits her beloved Gramps to help him clear up his house she stumbles upon a long forgotten letter from her diseased mother. In the letter Jen's mother is urging Jen to live her life to the full. Reading it again after so many years is very emotional as well as encouraging. So Jen sets on a life changing journey full of unexpected yet very pleasent surprises. Well even her old good "grumps" is moving on so why not Jen!
The book starts with a message written for Jen to open in a year time. The message is written by Alex Fellows, very charming man with the most mesmerizing eyes who helps Jen to open up to new possibilities and become a little bit more adventures and daring. At first Jen is struggling to trust Alex. She has definitely built quite a tall wall around herself and her suddenly married best friend Angie is not helping to the cause either with her well meant advice to stay away from that particular man. So naturally Jen is reluctant to give in to Alex but Alex has different plans for Jen and he is very persistent for her to be part of it. I was absolutely smitten with Alex and his all around adoring personality. Other lovely characters were Jen's Grumps and her best friend Angie and even Marcia ( Grumps new love interest) was a very welcome part of the gang. At the beginning of the story Jen was quite a vulnerable person lucking self confidence but as the story progressed Jen has developed too! I marveled at Jen's ability to make her dreams come true and finally do something that makes her truly happy.
There were two letters that played a very important part of the story-line (one at the beginning of the book and one at the end of the book) and I must say after I had read both of those letters I was in tears.
Jill Steeples created a wonderful, fun and a very romantic book full of delightful and warm characters. Every sentence was so beautiful constructed and I was hooked on the story from the very first page.
The main character in the story is Jen Faraday, she is a very relatable heroin who is trying to find that something special in her life. Although she has a very comfortable job (for past 9 years!) there is certainly something lacking in her other life departments. When Jen visits her beloved Gramps to help him clear up his house she stumbles upon a long forgotten letter from her diseased mother. In the letter Jen's mother is urging Jen to live her life to the full. Reading it again after so many years is very emotional as well as encouraging. So Jen sets on a life changing journey full of unexpected yet very pleasent surprises. Well even her old good "grumps" is moving on so why not Jen!
The book starts with a message written for Jen to open in a year time. The message is written by Alex Fellows, very charming man with the most mesmerizing eyes who helps Jen to open up to new possibilities and become a little bit more adventures and daring. At first Jen is struggling to trust Alex. She has definitely built quite a tall wall around herself and her suddenly married best friend Angie is not helping to the cause either with her well meant advice to stay away from that particular man. So naturally Jen is reluctant to give in to Alex but Alex has different plans for Jen and he is very persistent for her to be part of it. I was absolutely smitten with Alex and his all around adoring personality. Other lovely characters were Jen's Grumps and her best friend Angie and even Marcia ( Grumps new love interest) was a very welcome part of the gang. At the beginning of the story Jen was quite a vulnerable person lucking self confidence but as the story progressed Jen has developed too! I marveled at Jen's ability to make her dreams come true and finally do something that makes her truly happy.
There were two letters that played a very important part of the story-line (one at the beginning of the book and one at the end of the book) and I must say after I had read both of those letters I was in tears.
Jill Steeples created a wonderful, fun and a very romantic book full of delightful and warm characters. Every sentence was so beautiful constructed and I was hooked on the story from the very first page.
June 29, 2015
The idea behind this book is good. Boy meets girl, boy predicts girl's future in a letter not to be opened for a year. Boy and girl have on-off-on-off relationship whilst girl quits job cos she needs to make changes to her life especially now that her Gramps has found someone else to share his life.
The delivery of this interesting premise didn't quite do it for me. Although I did enjoy what I read, I thought there was some bits that could have been expanded on, specifically a bit more backstory for Jen, I also, like Jen, completely forgot all about the letter during most of the book but I felt I should have been more interested in what it contained, and when I did find out, it didn't really do it for me.
I did like the characterisation. The author is another one of those people watchers as they all came across to be perfectly credible is personality but I felt that some of their actions didn't quite ring true to me. I thought that Alex could have stood up for himself a little bit more. Patience of a saint is an understatement for him!
I usually like my lighter reads to still have a bit of grit but sadly, this one didn't quite hit the mark for me but, that said, it was a short read, ideal for holiday reading when you don't want to have to work too hard reading-wise.
The version I had also finished around 90% with some extract from another book filling in the rest leaving me somewhat deflated at the end because I thought there was more coming than there actually was. I don't really like extracts at the end of books but I mind them less when I know they are there and at time of posting this, there is nothing I can see in the description that says this.
Would I read another book by this author? Probably, but I would be a little more careful choosing the book.
All in all a pleasant couple of hours reading but I didn't come away from the book as sated as I would have liked to have been.
I received a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The delivery of this interesting premise didn't quite do it for me. Although I did enjoy what I read, I thought there was some bits that could have been expanded on, specifically a bit more backstory for Jen, I also, like Jen, completely forgot all about the letter during most of the book but I felt I should have been more interested in what it contained, and when I did find out, it didn't really do it for me.
I did like the characterisation. The author is another one of those people watchers as they all came across to be perfectly credible is personality but I felt that some of their actions didn't quite ring true to me. I thought that Alex could have stood up for himself a little bit more. Patience of a saint is an understatement for him!
I usually like my lighter reads to still have a bit of grit but sadly, this one didn't quite hit the mark for me but, that said, it was a short read, ideal for holiday reading when you don't want to have to work too hard reading-wise.
The version I had also finished around 90% with some extract from another book filling in the rest leaving me somewhat deflated at the end because I thought there was more coming than there actually was. I don't really like extracts at the end of books but I mind them less when I know they are there and at time of posting this, there is nothing I can see in the description that says this.
Would I read another book by this author? Probably, but I would be a little more careful choosing the book.
All in all a pleasant couple of hours reading but I didn't come away from the book as sated as I would have liked to have been.
I received a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 17, 2015
Rating: 4.5/5
Jen feels that she’s at a crossroads in her life. She’d been in a long term relationship that lasted for nine years and ended when they started planning their wedding! Now she’s single and available but hasn’t found anyone to tempt her. When her BFF gets married she and the groom’s best friend, Adam, act as witnesses for the happy couple. Talk about instant attraction - they’re instantly a volatile, explosive combination. No problem you’d assume but the bride has warned Jen not to trust Adam, disparaging his ability to commit to any relationship. Jen finds making so many changes in her life daunting enough without leaving herself vulnerable to breaking her heart over Adam. Will they find their HEA together - or will her ex-boss prove a better match?
This is a superbly written, highly entertaining read with robust characters. I loved the letter aspect - you need to read the story to find out what I mean! This is a great story to relax in the sun to read (on the beach in my case) though it would also be heartwarming to read on by the fire, snuggled up on a cold winter’s day, too. Highly recommended to anyone who enjoys a well written romance with a strong plot and great characters.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley too,
for letting me read an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Jen feels that she’s at a crossroads in her life. She’d been in a long term relationship that lasted for nine years and ended when they started planning their wedding! Now she’s single and available but hasn’t found anyone to tempt her. When her BFF gets married she and the groom’s best friend, Adam, act as witnesses for the happy couple. Talk about instant attraction - they’re instantly a volatile, explosive combination. No problem you’d assume but the bride has warned Jen not to trust Adam, disparaging his ability to commit to any relationship. Jen finds making so many changes in her life daunting enough without leaving herself vulnerable to breaking her heart over Adam. Will they find their HEA together - or will her ex-boss prove a better match?
This is a superbly written, highly entertaining read with robust characters. I loved the letter aspect - you need to read the story to find out what I mean! This is a great story to relax in the sun to read (on the beach in my case) though it would also be heartwarming to read on by the fire, snuggled up on a cold winter’s day, too. Highly recommended to anyone who enjoys a well written romance with a strong plot and great characters.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley too,
for letting me read an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 13, 2015
Jen and Alex meet at a wedding and when they go for a drink afterwards Alex makes a prediction about her life and puts it intro a sealed envelope that she cannot open for a year.
Jen is pretty dissatisfied with life she didn't go to uni after her mum died and she has been dumped by her boyfriend. Alex is certainly gorgeous but she had been warned about him being a ladies man. ..but they do keep bumping into each other.
When her grandfather gives her a letter that her mother wrote before she died to read again Jen decides that is time for action and quits her job and decides she has to make something of her life
A great easy reading book with a good storyline and I loved some of the characters. A definite read for the beach
Jen is pretty dissatisfied with life she didn't go to uni after her mum died and she has been dumped by her boyfriend. Alex is certainly gorgeous but she had been warned about him being a ladies man. ..but they do keep bumping into each other.
When her grandfather gives her a letter that her mother wrote before she died to read again Jen decides that is time for action and quits her job and decides she has to make something of her life
A great easy reading book with a good storyline and I loved some of the characters. A definite read for the beach
June 16, 2024
Really enjoyable
I liked this book, I felt sorry for Jen who was fighting her feelings for Alex. She was frightened of being hurt. I love Jill's books, but I felt as if I had read this book before perhaps under a different title.
I liked this book, I felt sorry for Jen who was fighting her feelings for Alex. She was frightened of being hurt. I love Jill's books, but I felt as if I had read this book before perhaps under a different title.
July 13, 2015
A fun summery read... This had everything you'd expect from a love story with out being too predictable,
Thank you Jill for sending me this.
Thank you Jill for sending me this.
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