This One Life

by Amanda Prowse

She wants it all. But life has other plans…

After years of hard work, Madeleine’s life is very nearly perfect. She’s about to move to LA to pursue her dream job—and there’s a new man on the scene too. But when her mother falls ill, pulling her back to the world she’s tried so hard to leave behind, the repercussions of a life-changing decision Madeleine made seven years ago resurface, threatening to jeopardise everything she’s worked for.

Faced with the promise of her new life, and the pull of her old, she has to ask herself some tough questions; was what she did then right for her family? How do you know when it’s okay to put yourself first? And what’s the cost of happiness?

Heartfelt, provocative and emotional, this is a gripping look at the choices women have to make, and whether we really can have it all…

Genres: Fiction, Contemporary, Audiobook, Romance, Family, Book Club, Adult

351 pages, Paperback

Published January 7, 2025

About the author

Previous Book: 'Swimming to Lundy', published th August 2024'.

Latest Book: 'This One Life', published 7th January 2025.

Next Book: 'Ever After' published 7th August 2025.

Amanda Prowse is an International Bestselling author whose thirty-two novels, two non-fiction titles and ten novellas have been published in dozens of languages around the world. Published by Lake Union, Amanda is the most prolific writer of bestselling contemporary fiction in the UK today; her titles also consistently score the highest online review approval ratings across several genres. Her books, including the chart topping No.1 titles 'What Have I Done?', 'Perfect Daughter', 'My Husband's Wife', 'The Girl in the Corner' and ‘The Things I Know’ have sold millions of copies across the globe.

A popular TV and radio personality, Amanda has appeared on numerous shows where her views on family and social issues strike a chord with viewers. She also makes countless guest appearances on BBC national and independent Radio stations including LBC, Times Radio and Talk FM, where she is well known for her insightful observations and her infectious humour. Described by the Daily Mail as ‘The queen of family drama’ Amanda’s novel, 'A Mother's Story' won the coveted Sainsbury's eBook of the year Award and she has had two books selected as World Book Night titles, 'Perfect Daughter' in 2016 and 'The Boy Between' in 2022.

Amanda is a huge supporter of libraries and having become a proud ambassador for The Reading Agency, works tirelessly to promote reading, especially in disadvantaged areas. Amanda's ambition is to create stories that keep people from turning the bedside lamp off at night, great characters that ensure you take every step with them and tales that fill your head so you can't possibly read another book until the memory fades...

Praise for Amanda Prowse:

'A powerful and emotional work of fiction' - Piers Morgan

'Deeply moving and emotional, Amanda Prowse handles her explosive subjects with delicate skill' - Daily Mail

'Uplifting and positive, but you will still need a box of tissues' - Hello!

'A gut-wrenching and absolutely brilliant read' - The Irish Sun

'You'll fall in love with this...' - Cosmopolitan

'Deeply moving and eye opening. Powerful and emotional drama that packs a real punch.' - Heat

'Magical' - Now magazine

Reviews

[Shelley's Book Nook · Rating 3 out of 5]

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The Book Review Crew Blog

3.5 Stars

I really enjoy Amanda Prowse's books. Picking up the Pieces , Very Very Lucky and All Good Things were either a four or five star read for me. This book sends the message you only get one life so live it the way that makes you happiest. I like the way the author got the message across without being preachy.

Madeline was a character that was really hard for me to like and I understood what the author was trying to do, not everyone indeed wants to live a traditional life and women are often scorned for not wanting it but sometimes life has other ideas and throws a monkey wrench into our best-laid plans. I also felt this was a book about motherhood and all its inclinations but mostly mother-daughter relationships The one Madeline has with her own mom is complicated beyond measure even though Madeline has an expensive apartment, a great job in the big city, and will be trying to get her own business off the ground in the near future she has a lot of growing up to do and I enjoyed being on that Journey with her. As she grew up she grew on me. What feels right for one person isn't always right for another.

While this isn't my favourite book by the author, I was very pleased with the story's ending and that she didn't fall into the trap of the happily-ever-after nuclear family...I was so here for it. The epilogue was a tad predictable but I'm glad Madeline wisened up and decided to earn her place in her special family.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.

[James · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyed the story. At first it seemed to be going in a different direction, but then it fast-forwarded twenty-something years and we see what has changed through the years. Tugs a bit at your heart. Offers a light romance. Mostly a tale about growing up and learning to figure out your own identity. Prowse truly understands human nature and has insights beyond the norm. Treasure her work.

[Sheila · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received a free copy of, This One Life, by Amanda Prowse, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Its always hard to put ourselves first, specially when family demand they come first. Madeleine is finally in a place she wants to be, but then her mom needs her,does she really want to be pulled back into the family fold. Going back and forth was a little confusing, a nice read though.

[Chelsea Lewis · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book has the most unlikeable main character! Just could not get on board with it!

[Natasha Ellis · Rating 3 out of 5]

Usually an Amanda Prowse read is quite emotional. Not this one. I found the main character Madeleine so irritating and unlikeable that I just didn’t care what happened to her. It was readable but not my favourite by her.

[Ellen Elizabeth · Rating 3 out of 5]

Meh. MC was unlikeable & lacked much charterer development. Unrealistic story line, surprised this has had such high ratings

[thegirlwiththesitatattoo · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting read! Always good to understand different family dynamics and how people change and develop over time and how this impacts people around them.

[Maddy · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fabulous way to spend New Year’s Day! I spent the day with Ms Amanda Prowse, or at least her new book, having had the great fortune to have a pre-release copy to read. All I can say is Wow! Be warned – you will find an entire day gone before you know it!!!

Madeleine was born poor, but to an extremely loving home. Whilst she didn’t want for the basic necessities, she wasn’t like the rest of her community, even her best friend Trina – more like a sister than a friend. Madeleine wanted more and as she walked the streets, and saw the lovely houses that were around, Madeleine knew that that was what she aspired to – to own a gorgeous apartment and to decorate it in her taste, to feel comfortable in the best restaurants, to be respected at work, and to leave the smelly, downmarket flat of her youth far behind. Madeleine works hard, and due to a massive break, and a sympathetic mentor, her career is on a good trajectory. Unfortunately, then comes the bomb that threatens to derail all her plans. 8 years later, Madeleine has managed to get her life back on track, and she is preparing to move to LA and learn enough to start her own business, when her beloved mother has a heart attack. This throws a second grenade into the life that Madeleine has built for herself, the life she thinks she wants, but could just be the best thing that ever happened to her as it makes her re-evaluate her whole life and the choices she has made.

The story is told in two timelines, 8 years apart. Now, and what happened 8 years before to threaten to overturn her life plan. Ms Prowse has written another excellent book. The character of Madeleine could have been written as someone cold and unlikeable, but such is the author’s skill you find yourself sympathising with the situation Madeleine finds herself in, and rooting for her to have her happy ending. This is a wonderful book with many heart wrenching, and often surprising moments, but be warned – you wont want to put it down until it is finished.

[Nita · Rating 2 out of 5]

Amanda Prowse writes beautifully. This book annoyed me for several reasons. Firstly 24 weeks is not 7 months pregnant! Please just get the math right.

Then I had complicated feelings about the tropes she explored around motherhood, happiness and fulfillment and the conclusions she reached.

Not a favourite for me

[Claire Mawdesley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've been in a massive reading slump for the last couple of years really but was determined to get reading again.

I was lucky enough to be sent this book as an ARC so instead of procrastinating, which I tend to do when choosing a book to read, I just thought this would be the ideal book to make a start with.

I'm so glad I did pick this book as I've flown through it in about 3 sittings!

I alternated between thinking the main character, Madeleine was quite selfish, to then really empathising with the situation / dilemma she found herself in.

Highly recommended by me, and now to make another quick fire decision in what to read next!

[Rochelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

I knew nothing about this book when I picked it up but I got so engrossed in the story. The way it outlines the complexity of life, careers and motherhood was a really interesting perspective.

[Jenna Hastwell · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very interesting/different read about a woman who doesn’t want to have kids, but life has different plans for her.

[Jamie · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF 30%. Snore! FMC is very unlikeable and story kept jumping back and forth from present to 8 years ago. It was difficult to even remember which timeline I was in and found I didn’t even care. It’s just too boring to keep my interest.

[Jennifer Bonanno · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5/4 ⭐️
I had a love/hate relationship with this book- at times it was so emotional and had me sobbing, but other times I felt it was hard to care about what was happening/hard to follow along.
At first, I was so confused about why Madeline would make the choices she did, but as you get to know who she is and her inner conflict, you understand and feel her uncertainty. Her unconventional story as she finds her place as a mother and daughter seems so far-fetched at first, but I loved how we learned along with Madeline and made the same realizations.

[Claire · Rating 4 out of 5]

I always enjoy this authors books and are my go too when I can’t decide what to read. Another good read with a meaning to the story and a good feel to it. Always make me reflect and think.

[Becky · Rating 4 out of 5]

I didn't want it to end... I want and need to know more of Madeline's story

[Zoe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Charming, hopeful, and tender!

This One Life is a touching, uplifting tale that takes you into the life of Madeline, a young woman who, after leaving almost everything behind to pursue her dreams seven years ago, must reevaluate her goals, career, and relationships when her mother suddenly falls ill and needs her help.

The prose is heartfelt and smooth. The characters are multilayered, genuine, and conflicted. And the plot is an absorbing tale about life, love, family, friendship, self-discovery, happiness, heartbreak, taking chances, growth, healing, revelations, ambition, tender moments, light drama, romance, and new beginnings.

Overall, This One Life is a beautifully written, must-read book by Prowse that tugs at the heartstrings, prompts you to consider all those what-ifs, and reminds you that life is complicated, love is powerful and everlasting, and things often happen for a reason.

[Marcia · Rating 3 out of 5]

Madeleine is not a particularly likable character. She’s a highly driven single woman who has made some hard decisions for herself, always true to her goal of being successful in her career. Neither romance, nor impending motherhood, nor loyalty to her parents can turn her head from doing what is right for herself.

Some years after she’s made a life altering decision, Madeleine needs to return home and eventually face the repercussions of a choice she made earlier in her life. Choices are never simple although it seemed more cut and dry for Madeleine than it would have been for me.

This was a quick and painless read but just didn’t leave me with much. I couldn’t identify with any of the characters- they were all extremely true to themselves from beginning to end. Yet I did question the plausibility of a pregnancy hardly showing right up until the end. What I did finally come away with is that other people’s decisions have to be right for them even when I don’t agree.

Not a bad book. Not a great book. My first Amanda Prowse read and I would definitely try another. It will be available on January 7, 2025. You might enjoy it Thanks to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my unbiased review.

[Lindsey Davis · Rating 2 out of 5]

Madeline was a character I just could not come around to like. I see what the author was trying to do, not every woman must go the nuclear route. I see how she took a role that most mothers don’t get to take, only fathers do. But it was just so hard for me to understand 1) why she didn’t adopt Edith to strangers with an open adoption and 2) why did her parents raise Edith and not jimmy? I get jimmy was involved but they made him seem like the five star parent but yet he still only got Edith on weekends… it made me internally cringe when Madeline wouldn’t admit she had a child in the beginning, it was just pathetic. I did appreciate her growth towards the end. I did hate how she got the guy bc I don’t think she deserved to after purposely hiding the fact she was a mother from him bc, let’s be real, she was embarrassed.

I am a big proponent of if you make your bed, lie in it. Madeline did not lie in hers and let everyone around her make the hard decisions for her and then blamed everyone for judging her. And tbh I think she deserved to be judged bc what do you mean you don’t know the name of your child’s teacher?? Madeline wanted a life she only could have achieved from adopting Edith to people outside the family.

[Madeline Martin · Rating 2 out of 5]

I found the main character Madeleine so insufferable and wish we didn’t have the same name. Also found her parents annoying tbh even though they were supposed to be the cute perfect marriage grandparents

[The Bookish Elf · Rating 4 out of 5]

In her latest novel "This One Life," bestselling author Amanda Prowse delivers a poignant and thought-provoking exploration of motherhood, ambition, and the complex choices women face in modern society. Known for her emotionally resonant family dramas, Prowse once again demonstrates her mastery of character-driven storytelling while tackling challenging themes with sensitivity and nuance.

Plot Overview

Madeleine Woods appears to have it all - a successful career in commercial interior design, a luxurious London apartment, and a promising new relationship with the charismatic Nico Yannis. But when her mother Marnie suffers a heart attack, Madeleine is pulled back into the world of the Brenton Park estate she worked so hard to escape. This crisis forces her to confront the consequences of a life-altering decision she made seven years ago: giving up her newborn daughter Edith to be raised by her parents.

As Madeleine prepares for a career-advancing move to Los Angeles, she must navigate complex relationships with her estranged best friend Trina, her daughter's father Jimmy, and most importantly, seven-year-old Edith herself. Through this journey, she questions whether having it all means sacrificing authentic connections and if there's a way to bridge the gap between her ambitions and her heart.

Character Analysis

Madeleine Woods

The protagonist's character development is masterfully crafted. Initially presented as a somewhat superficial perfectionist obsessed with paint colors and proper pronunciation, Madeleine's layers are gradually peeled back to reveal deep-seated insecurities and guilt. Her transformation feels authentic rather than forced, as she slowly realizes that success doesn't have to mean complete detachment from her roots.

Supporting Characters

- Marnie & Doug: Madeleine's parents are beautifully rendered, especially Marnie's complex mix of unconditional love and subtle judgment of her daughter's choices

- Jimmy: The father of Madeleine's child emerges as one of the most sympathetic characters, displaying remarkable growth and maturity

- Edith: The seven-year-old daughter steals every scene she's in with authentic childlike observations and unexpected wisdom

- Trina: The estranged best friend represents the road not taken and serves as an important catalyst for Madeleine's growth

Themes and Social Commentary

Class and Social Mobility

Prowse expertly explores the cultural and psychological implications of class mobility. Madeleine's conscious efforts to change her accent and mannerisms reflect deeper questions about authenticity and belonging.

Modern Motherhood

The novel challenges conventional narratives about maternal instinct and "having it all." Through Madeleine's story, Prowse examines how society judges women who make unconventional choices about motherhood.

Choice and Consequence

The ripple effects of past decisions form a central theme, particularly how one choice can impact multiple lives across years.

Writing Style and Technique

Prowse's prose is accessible yet layered, peppered with moments of unexpected humor that lighten what could otherwise be overwhelmingly heavy subject matter. The parallel timeline structure effectively builds tension while revealing crucial background information.

Strengths

- Rich character development
- Authentic dialogue
- Skillful handling of complex emotions
- Well-paced narrative
- Vivid sense of place

Areas for Improvement

- Some secondary plot threads feel underdeveloped
- The LA storyline could have been more fully explored
- Occasional reliance on convenient timing for plot development

Impact and Relevance

The novel resonates particularly strongly in today's discussions about work-life balance and the evolving definition of family. Prowse avoids easy answers while offering hope that personal growth and reconciliation are always possible.

Conclusion

"This One Life" is a compelling addition to Amanda Prowse's body of work. While not without its flaws, the novel succeeds in tackling complex social issues through the lens of deeply personal stories. The authentic character development and emotional depth make it a worthwhile read for anyone interested in contemporary family drama.

[Trish Hills · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can't think of a better way to start a new year than with a new book from Amanda Prowse. I've had This One Life on my kindle for a little while but I knew I was going to struggle with reading and focus through December, so I decided to wait before starting it. I can never read Mandy's books with anything less than clear focus. They deserve that, at least.

So I picked up my kindle on New Year a Day and instantly fell into Madeline's story. Mads is a complex and conflicted character, and I really felt for her; so torn between worlds. My emotions were all over the place. Marnie and Dougie tugged at my heart with their tender love. Jimmy had me swooning. Trina and Mads reminded me of me and my childhood bestie, Nicole, with their bond like sisters. And then there's Edith. How could anyone not fall head over heels in love with Edith? She is everything I ever dreamed of having.

The tension and drama in this book is a little higher than most of Mandy's books, but that is in no way a bad thing. It made it hard to put down. But there's still every single ounce of the family, love, and heart that you expect in an Amanda Prowse book.

What a start to my reading year!!

A very big 4.5⭐️
Thanks to Netgalley for allowing me an arc.

[Ritu Bhathal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Anything by Amanda Prowse is an automatic buy/read for me, and though This One Life has a different feel, it was by no means anything less than a brilliant read.
A dual timeline provides us with the current story and the background as we meet Edith-Madelaine, a young child living in the East End of London. Although she has little in her home, love surrounds her.
Fast forward to now, we meet Madelaine, the exquisitely put-together interior designer with a career to dream of, wealth, respect, and suitors she can pick, as well as a new chapter about to begin in her work and life abroad.
We are then taken back to eight years before, when Madelaine, as she now likes to be known, is facing a significant decision in her life.
Madelaine comes from a small, loving family, but expectations and disappointments remain regardless of how much her parents care for her.
It's hard to be a woman who has it all. Amanda Prowse has sensitively explored this topic, and the lesson I learned from this story is that it is possible, but a life like that will always involve compromises.
I read it in a day, and the ending did leave me all warm and fuzzy.

[Karen Axnick · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have mixed feeling about this novel. The writing is well-crafted, and the storyline is emotionally evocative. However, the protagonist is portrayed as selfish and lacking any flexibility in seeing anyone else’s viewpoint but her own. I had difficulty relating to her and found her unlikeable. I almost quit reading at the halfway point but set it aside for a few days and was able to finish. I am glad I did as there was a major shift that, while it felt rushed, ended the story on a positive note.

This is a story that explores a complex character blinded by her own ambition and ignorant of the impact her attitudes and behaviors on those she loves. In her attempts to rise above her working-class parents, she creates a persona that matches her vision of success at the expense of authenticity and intimacy. The dysfunctional relationship with her mother added to the angst. Her redeeming quality is her insight in seeking therapy for her own discontent, which leads to a breakthrough.

Overall, this was not an enjoyable read and I cannot give it a strong recommendation.

My thanks to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for the privilege of reviewing this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Anna Satchell · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5/4 stars. I liked the fact that the chapters swapped between the past and present but feel like not a lot happened and there was a bit of repetition between the conversations that Madeline had with her family and friends. Wasn’t sure why Madeline’s daughter had to have exactly the same name as her. Found the none traditional ideas that Madeline about motherhood interesting. I also really liked the ending.

[Lori Boyd · Rating 3 out of 5]

Happy Pub Day!

Madeleine grew up in a loving home but financially struggling. She wants more for herself and works hard to achieve her dreams of eventually owning her own business. Then life happens.

Amanda Prowse is a go to author for me. Her writing is top notch and characters are raw, realistic and relatable. It’s easy to get lost in her stories. This story, however, didn’t totally work for me. I couldn’t connect with most of the characters or their choices. I felt that they walked on egg shells around Madeleine. I appreciated how they stepped up. Yes, sometimes we need to put our wants and needs first, but we also need to step up when faced with the consequences of our actions. This book really makes you look at things from another point of view. If you like complicated, out of the norm relationships, this book is for you. I look forward to this author’s next book.

Thanks to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for this ARC. This is my honest opinion.

⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 (3.5/5)

[Cammy · Rating 2 out of 5]

Would’ve given it one star except that I feel largely to blame for not liking it, I knew I wouldn’t like it from the start but decided to keep reading. Like ordering a whisky sour despite not liking whisky and then drinking it all because it cost $23. Except I think this one was free on unlimited, so an extra star for the book.

[Belinda Cooper · Rating 3 out of 5]

I would probably give this one a 7/10.. or maybe 6.5. The main character is very hard to relate to but I like that it pushes the boundaries on traditional norms. The way the story went along I feel like it kind of did a disservice to someone standing up for this non traditional way of life and proved her wrong, although I did like the ending.

[Emma Thomson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A real feel good novel, with a satisfying conclusion.

[Lisa Dawson · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was ok but honestly it was a bit boring. It took me ages to read and each time I went back nothing really happened. The writing wasn’t bad just the story uninteresting and uninspiring.