What do you think?
Rate this book
Worth Waiting For
On an ordinary, grey day a little bit of magic is about to happen on a street corner near you...
At twenty-seven, Ellie Newton’s life revolves around telling other people’s stories. As a go-getting journalist for the Millrise Echo, she’s always tuned into the latest goings-on. But covering school fundraisers and shopping trolley thefts has started to lose its shine. Ellie loves her hometown, but with the serious lack of romantic prospects and a career that has stalled, she’s beginning to wonder if she should try her luck in the big city after all. Until she hears about a story that definitely has something special...
Soulful musician Ben was heartbroken when his girlfriend, the love of his life, Gemma, walked out on him without a word. But rather than mope around the house he’s decided this calls for a grand gesture, and a bunch of flowers just isn’t going to cut it. Ben has set up camp on Gemma’s street and is determined to stay there, in the freezing February weather, until she realises how much he loves her and that he will do anything to make her happy.
The story has everything Ellie loves – broken hearts, old-fashioned romance, a rather handsome man – and she decides to do everything she can to help Ben get Gemma back, including taking his story to the national news. But as Ellie and Ben join forces to reunite him with the girl of his dreams, could their story lead them somewhere more unexpected?
A perfect feel-good romantic read that will make you laugh and cry. Fans of One Day in December, Lucy Diamond and Jill Mansell will be totally enchanted by this heart-warming tale.
Previously published as The Man Who Can’t Be Moved.
Top 20 Amazon CA and top 30 Amazon UK author. Tilly has sold over 290,000 copies. For fans of Jenny Colgan, Lucy Diamond and Josie Silver.
From a young age, Tilly Tennant was convinced that she was destined for the stage. Once she realised she wasn’t actually very good at anything that would put her on the stage, she started to write stories instead. There were lots of terrible ones, like The Pet Rescue Gang (aged eight), which definitely should not see the light of day ever again. Thankfully, her debut novel, Hopelessly Devoted to Holden Finn was not one of those, and since it hit the Amazon bestseller lists she hasn’t looked back. Born in Dorset, she currently lives in Staffordshire.
At twenty-seven, Ellie Newton’s life revolves around telling other people’s stories. As a go-getting journalist for the Millrise Echo, she’s always tuned into the latest goings-on. But covering school fundraisers and shopping trolley thefts has started to lose its shine. Ellie loves her hometown, but with the serious lack of romantic prospects and a career that has stalled, she’s beginning to wonder if she should try her luck in the big city after all. Until she hears about a story that definitely has something special...
Soulful musician Ben was heartbroken when his girlfriend, the love of his life, Gemma, walked out on him without a word. But rather than mope around the house he’s decided this calls for a grand gesture, and a bunch of flowers just isn’t going to cut it. Ben has set up camp on Gemma’s street and is determined to stay there, in the freezing February weather, until she realises how much he loves her and that he will do anything to make her happy.
The story has everything Ellie loves – broken hearts, old-fashioned romance, a rather handsome man – and she decides to do everything she can to help Ben get Gemma back, including taking his story to the national news. But as Ellie and Ben join forces to reunite him with the girl of his dreams, could their story lead them somewhere more unexpected?
A perfect feel-good romantic read that will make you laugh and cry. Fans of One Day in December, Lucy Diamond and Jill Mansell will be totally enchanted by this heart-warming tale.
Previously published as The Man Who Can’t Be Moved.
Top 20 Amazon CA and top 30 Amazon UK author. Tilly has sold over 290,000 copies. For fans of Jenny Colgan, Lucy Diamond and Josie Silver.
From a young age, Tilly Tennant was convinced that she was destined for the stage. Once she realised she wasn’t actually very good at anything that would put her on the stage, she started to write stories instead. There were lots of terrible ones, like The Pet Rescue Gang (aged eight), which definitely should not see the light of day ever again. Thankfully, her debut novel, Hopelessly Devoted to Holden Finn was not one of those, and since it hit the Amazon bestseller lists she hasn’t looked back. Born in Dorset, she currently lives in Staffordshire.
Audible Audio
First published December 19, 2014
61 people are currently reading
718 people want to read
About the author
Tilly Tennant
48 books471 followersTilly Tennant was born in Dorset, the oldest of four children, but now lives in Staffordshire with a family of her own. After years of dismal and disastrous jobs, including paper plate stacking, shop girl, newspaper promotions and waitressing (she never could carry a bowl of soup without spilling a bit), she decided to indulge her passion for the written word by embarking on a degree in English and creative writing, graduating in 2009 with first class honours. She wrote her first novel in 2007 during her first summer break at university and has not stopped writing since. She also works as a freelance fiction editor, and considers herself very lucky that this enables her to read many wonderful books before the rest of the world gets them.
Tilly is represented by the wonderful, gorgeous Peta Nightingale at LAW.
Tilly is represented by the wonderful, gorgeous Peta Nightingale at LAW.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
March 18, 2016
Any fan of the single “The Man Who Can’t be Moved” by The Script will adore this novel written by Tilly Tennant.
It follows Ellie; a junior journalist for her local paper ‘Millrise Echo’; who is keen to prove herself and is more than happy to follow up the story of a man sitting on a corner waiting for his true love to return to him. What Ellie didn’t expect when she meets and interviews Ben Kelly is that she would find him attractive. However, despite her attractions to the man, Ellie decides that she will help Ben anyway she can win back the woman he loves.
Throughout the novel, Tennant shows us how dynamic Ellie is as a character through all the personal situations she has to contend with. First of all, she’s now dedicated herself to helping Ben win back his ex-girlfriend, Gemma. Secondly, her mother and father have fallen out and separated causing her to be in the middle as they won’t even talk to each other. And thirdly, her Auntie who has been like a second mother to her is terminally ill and deciding whether or not moving into a hospice would be the best thing for her and her family. Ellie’s character realistically copes with these problems and allows the reader to relate to Ellie.
Highlight for me was that there were so many minor characters such as Ellie’s family, her friends, the other members of staff at the Millrise Echo as well as the ladies that lived on the street where Ben was camping out but not once did Tennant lose track of them all or allow them to lose their own personalities. Sometimes you can find authors jumble up characters names and personalities when they have so much going on but this never happened in ‘The Man Who Can’t Be Moved’ and Tennant managed to make the reader also like them. I absolutely loved the “Constance Street” girls that took Ben under their wing as he camped out on their street corner.
“The Man Who Can’t be Moved” is a quick, fun, light hearted read which will not only have you wanting to listen to the song by The Script – Tennant actually mentions the song in her book! – repeatedly but it’ll also have you believing in romance all over again.
Reviewed for A Drop of Romeo
It follows Ellie; a junior journalist for her local paper ‘Millrise Echo’; who is keen to prove herself and is more than happy to follow up the story of a man sitting on a corner waiting for his true love to return to him. What Ellie didn’t expect when she meets and interviews Ben Kelly is that she would find him attractive. However, despite her attractions to the man, Ellie decides that she will help Ben anyway she can win back the woman he loves.
Throughout the novel, Tennant shows us how dynamic Ellie is as a character through all the personal situations she has to contend with. First of all, she’s now dedicated herself to helping Ben win back his ex-girlfriend, Gemma. Secondly, her mother and father have fallen out and separated causing her to be in the middle as they won’t even talk to each other. And thirdly, her Auntie who has been like a second mother to her is terminally ill and deciding whether or not moving into a hospice would be the best thing for her and her family. Ellie’s character realistically copes with these problems and allows the reader to relate to Ellie.
Highlight for me was that there were so many minor characters such as Ellie’s family, her friends, the other members of staff at the Millrise Echo as well as the ladies that lived on the street where Ben was camping out but not once did Tennant lose track of them all or allow them to lose their own personalities. Sometimes you can find authors jumble up characters names and personalities when they have so much going on but this never happened in ‘The Man Who Can’t Be Moved’ and Tennant managed to make the reader also like them. I absolutely loved the “Constance Street” girls that took Ben under their wing as he camped out on their street corner.
“The Man Who Can’t be Moved” is a quick, fun, light hearted read which will not only have you wanting to listen to the song by The Script – Tennant actually mentions the song in her book! – repeatedly but it’ll also have you believing in romance all over again.
Reviewed for A Drop of Romeo
May 4, 2021
Its sweet and quirky. Ellie is very down to earth, cautious and aware woman of 27. Gemma has a small but very effective role. The side characters are very regular, relatable people. Overall a very pleasant read.
Recommended : 👍
Recommended : 👍
January 28, 2015
Posted originally http://www.reviewedthebook.co.uk/2014...
I instantly became a big fan of Tilly Tennant once I read her debut novel Hopelessly Devoted to Holden Finn earlier this year. Her festive novella Mishaps and Mistletoe published just over a month ago was magical and beautiful and so another book so soon had me thrilled. The Man Who Can’t Be Moved had everything going for it, in my opinion – the gorgeous cover, the catchy title inspired by a song which will be stuck in your head throughout the whole book, a romantic story and another set of endearing characters. I read The Man Who Can’t Be Moved in less than a day and thought this was by far Tilly’s best novel yet!
As soon as we meet the main character Ellie, we see just how hectic her life is. She’s busy trying to sort out the issues between her parents, busy trying to care for her seriously ill aunt Hazel and busy trying to catch up with her best friends in London – let alone trying hard to impress as a journalist at the Millrise Echo. Straight away it’s obvious how she spends a lot of time putting other people first. She’s caring and selfless and I really liked her character, whilst at the same time wanting her to slow down too. We see her go out to report on Ben Kelly, a guy camping out on a street corner in the hope it will be a gesture grand enough to win back his ex-girlfriend Gemma. Whether it was romantic, stupid or a bit of a both, I loved his approach and the entire concept of The Man Who Can’t Be Moved was very entertaining. Ben’s character was super sweet and he became one of my favourite male characters I’ve read this year. I loved his spirit and his attitude. The way the women on Constance Street acted towards him brought many humorous moments – from the way they’d constantly try and feed him up or make him drinks, to how eager they were to be around when the press were involved. The typical neighbourhood busy-bodies, maybe, or just women who have hearts of gold - they were developed realistically and I found them great fun to read.
Tilly Tennant has this really recognisable style of writing which I just adore. She builds on scenarios that might at first feel a bit unreal, but full of heart and imagination, and then makes them so easy to believe and buy into. I loved reading the slow-building little sparks between Ellie and Ben and was always rooting for a happy ending. The Man Who Can’t Be Moved is the perfect read for the hopeless romantic. All the little touches written into this novel were lovely to read too. The fleeting mentions of Holden Finn from Hopelessly Devoted to Holden Finn were a clever way to get the reader thinking of where life might have taken another difficult to forget character Tilly has created. I also loved how journalism in an often quiet area was represented – the days when nothing interesting is really happening and the others where even just one fascinating scoop can have the whole workplace buzzing. Ellie’s friendship with the photographer Patrick and some of her other colleagues like Ange were a highlight of this novel for me too – I loved the banter and the wit in their dialogue, along with the all-out loyalty they had towards one another.
Though I would say The Man Who Can’t Be Moved is a feel-good novel, the synopsis suggests something a little more emotional is involved and Hazel’s illness provided some more moving moments in the novel. I thought the terminal illness aspect might hit a nerve for me but it was touching and delivered in Tilly’s usual gorgeous manner. This book is beautiful right the way through and I found myself wrapped up in the lives of so many different characters – the bold, funny and considerate to the stubborn and obstinate. Tilly creates stories full warmth and emotion, packed with vivid characters and endless escapism – I can’t recommend The Man Who Can’t Be Moved enough.
*Book received in exchange for an honest review.
September 2, 2020
This review was originally posted on Star Crossed Reviews
Thank you to JB for letting me take part in this blog tour. I have previously read Hopelessly Devoted to Holden Finn and enjoyed it a lot so I was very excited when I heard that Tilly had a new book out. I heard lots of chatter on twitter (literally the best place for book recommendations) about how great this book was and I knew I had to read it. I am also a HUGE fan of The Script so when I saw the title of this book I was immediately intrigued.
Ellie is a report for her local newspaper. She is extremely strong and brave. I don't know how she held it together with everything that was going on in her life. Between her parents and her aunt she had a lot of stress in her life. She does have some really great friends though. I really loved Patrick. I think I would have fallen for his charms if I worked at the Echo. Kas and Jethro were great characters too.
Ben is Mr Romantic. I mean any guy who camps on a street corner for a girl even for one night has to be beyond romantic right? Naturally, he's now made every guy hate him because their wives/girlfriends are all in love with him. The Constance Street girls were hilarious but also very protective of Ben, much to their husbands annoyance of course.
This book drags you through every emotion and when you finish that last page you feel like you have been through a such a journey. This book brought up a lot of feelings that I thought I had long buried. The emotional pain that Ellie and her family go through with her Aunt's illness really got to me.
This is a beautiful story which shows that you should never shy away from love because you're afraid you might get hurt.
Tilly is an amazing writer and I look forward to reading many more of her books in the future.
Giveaway
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Thank you to JB for letting me take part in this blog tour. I have previously read Hopelessly Devoted to Holden Finn and enjoyed it a lot so I was very excited when I heard that Tilly had a new book out. I heard lots of chatter on twitter (literally the best place for book recommendations) about how great this book was and I knew I had to read it. I am also a HUGE fan of The Script so when I saw the title of this book I was immediately intrigued.
Ellie is a report for her local newspaper. She is extremely strong and brave. I don't know how she held it together with everything that was going on in her life. Between her parents and her aunt she had a lot of stress in her life. She does have some really great friends though. I really loved Patrick. I think I would have fallen for his charms if I worked at the Echo. Kas and Jethro were great characters too.
Ben is Mr Romantic. I mean any guy who camps on a street corner for a girl even for one night has to be beyond romantic right? Naturally, he's now made every guy hate him because their wives/girlfriends are all in love with him. The Constance Street girls were hilarious but also very protective of Ben, much to their husbands annoyance of course.
This book drags you through every emotion and when you finish that last page you feel like you have been through a such a journey. This book brought up a lot of feelings that I thought I had long buried. The emotional pain that Ellie and her family go through with her Aunt's illness really got to me.
This is a beautiful story which shows that you should never shy away from love because you're afraid you might get hurt.
Tilly is an amazing writer and I look forward to reading many more of her books in the future.
Giveaway
a Rafflecopter giveaway
February 24, 2015
In the summer of 2008, I was heavily pregnant with my third child and fell totally in love with The Script’s The Man Who Can’t Be Moved. I was obsessed (possibly my hormones?) and listened to it on such an endless loop that when my daughter was finally born, she’d only sleep if the song was playing. Once I found out this book was based around the song, I couldn’t wait to get my hands on it.
I’ve heard many great things about Tilly Tennant’s writing and I was so pleased to discover they are all true.
Bringing us Ellie Newton, a young journalist trying to make her mark on the world yet being dragged down, readers are given a character they can immediately relate to and like. She’s a bright spark, whose sweet and over generous nature is actually working against her, dulling her sparkle as she acts as referee between her parents, tries to be a good friend and helps take care of her sick aunt.
Offering some sweet relief to her family problems is Ben Kelly, aka The Man Who Can’t Be Moved. Ellie sinks her teeth into his story and soon her innate desire to help others takes over, leading her and her emotions into a spot of trouble. Ben is a nice happy-go-lucky character, who we don’t actually get to spend that much time with. However, you sense immediately that he a good guy and root for his happiness. Ellie and Ben only have a few interactions throughout the entire story, which is something I usually don’t like, but it worked, thanks to the easy chemistry created by the author.
Dotted around the outskirts of the main story are some fantastic characters, with Patrick being a particular favourite of mine, and they only help to give The Man Who Can’t Be Moved a delightful tune that will sing its way into any romance lover’s heart.
review by Charlotte Foreman on behalf of Bestchicklit.com
I’ve heard many great things about Tilly Tennant’s writing and I was so pleased to discover they are all true.
Bringing us Ellie Newton, a young journalist trying to make her mark on the world yet being dragged down, readers are given a character they can immediately relate to and like. She’s a bright spark, whose sweet and over generous nature is actually working against her, dulling her sparkle as she acts as referee between her parents, tries to be a good friend and helps take care of her sick aunt.
Offering some sweet relief to her family problems is Ben Kelly, aka The Man Who Can’t Be Moved. Ellie sinks her teeth into his story and soon her innate desire to help others takes over, leading her and her emotions into a spot of trouble. Ben is a nice happy-go-lucky character, who we don’t actually get to spend that much time with. However, you sense immediately that he a good guy and root for his happiness. Ellie and Ben only have a few interactions throughout the entire story, which is something I usually don’t like, but it worked, thanks to the easy chemistry created by the author.
Dotted around the outskirts of the main story are some fantastic characters, with Patrick being a particular favourite of mine, and they only help to give The Man Who Can’t Be Moved a delightful tune that will sing its way into any romance lover’s heart.
review by Charlotte Foreman on behalf of Bestchicklit.com
March 20, 2022
DNF
Somnade in i den. Och var egentligen inte bra.
Handlade om en journalist som tog en story men en snubbe som väntade på en tjej, som hade lämnat. (Verkligen typ halv tvingar henne ditt).
Hon tjejen tycker att de är bra, blir sur på hans tjej.
Åker iväg till London hela tiden för att komma i från sina känslor.
Men den har typ inget sammanhang mellan nåt och de andra.
Somnade in i den. Och var egentligen inte bra.
Handlade om en journalist som tog en story men en snubbe som väntade på en tjej, som hade lämnat. (Verkligen typ halv tvingar henne ditt).
Hon tjejen tycker att de är bra, blir sur på hans tjej.
Åker iväg till London hela tiden för att komma i från sina känslor.
Men den har typ inget sammanhang mellan nåt och de andra.
April 7, 2015
A wonderful story about finding love in unexpected places and how when you think your life is falling apart, it might just be preparing you for something better.
A great read and page turner. The characters are colourful, funny and complex and there are moments of joy, sadness and laughter.
A great read and page turner. The characters are colourful, funny and complex and there are moments of joy, sadness and laughter.
March 29, 2023
I listened to this on audiobook.
This was a lovely little story, relatively enjoyable and entertaining, easy to follow and flows nicely too.
I enjoyed getting to know all of the characters, some more likeable than others, but then that is usually the way. There was lots happening with plenty of drama throughout but also a few emotional sad moments to contend with too. Not to mention the romance, chemistry, jealousy, so yeah this story really does have a bit of everything in terms of chic lit which this story falls into I reckon.
Thanks Tilly for another lovely story and yes I have read a fair few of her books now.
Credit also due to the narrator, as thought she did a smashing job of reading the story, taking on the role of the different characters.
Tilly is a wonderful author who knows how to write a good story, keeping her readers engaged from start to finish.
This was a lovely little story, relatively enjoyable and entertaining, easy to follow and flows nicely too.
I enjoyed getting to know all of the characters, some more likeable than others, but then that is usually the way. There was lots happening with plenty of drama throughout but also a few emotional sad moments to contend with too. Not to mention the romance, chemistry, jealousy, so yeah this story really does have a bit of everything in terms of chic lit which this story falls into I reckon.
Thanks Tilly for another lovely story and yes I have read a fair few of her books now.
Credit also due to the narrator, as thought she did a smashing job of reading the story, taking on the role of the different characters.
Tilly is a wonderful author who knows how to write a good story, keeping her readers engaged from start to finish.
November 15, 2017
I feel like I would have enjoyed this more a few years ago and I’m currently too cynical for life and I felt like Ben kept taking the easy way for everything
And I don’t believe in making public gestures like this to try to get a woman’s attention
In this situation, Gemma was an attention seeker etc but yeah if a woman leaves, you shouldn’t make such a public gesture to force her to come back to you
The song by the same title is romantic sure and so is this book but it’s ridiculous in practice
Maybe I’m being too cynical like I said oops
Anyway it was okay, was really sad about Hazel though
And I don’t believe in making public gestures like this to try to get a woman’s attention
In this situation, Gemma was an attention seeker etc but yeah if a woman leaves, you shouldn’t make such a public gesture to force her to come back to you
The song by the same title is romantic sure and so is this book but it’s ridiculous in practice
Maybe I’m being too cynical like I said oops
Anyway it was okay, was really sad about Hazel though
June 27, 2020
Ben is determined to win back the girl of his dreams and sets up camp on the street where they first met. His story is picked up by Ellie, a reporter for a local newspaper, and is eventually picked up by a TV show as well. Ellie has a troubled home life and has no desire for any new relationship, however whilst trying to bring those two together she starts falling for Ben.
I found it difficult to sympathise with Ben , whilst really feeling for Ellie, and thought that the girlfriend wasn't worth fighting for but that is love for you. With humour and some sad moments I did end up rooting for Ellie.
I found it difficult to sympathise with Ben , whilst really feeling for Ellie, and thought that the girlfriend wasn't worth fighting for but that is love for you. With humour and some sad moments I did end up rooting for Ellie.
April 28, 2025
This was the most practical representation of real life relationships and problems between partners, spouses, family and friends. Another thing, Ellie really did have amazing friends who loved and cared for her.
I can understand catching unexpected feelings but the moping she did over the guy who she didn't have too many encounters with seems sorta dramatic though.
I did also think Ellie's mom was immature though and couldn't listen to reason. She was frustrating. And don't get me started on Gemma. That girl was actually not a good human being lol.
I can understand catching unexpected feelings but the moping she did over the guy who she didn't have too many encounters with seems sorta dramatic though.
I did also think Ellie's mom was immature though and couldn't listen to reason. She was frustrating. And don't get me started on Gemma. That girl was actually not a good human being lol.
March 19, 2015
I have heard a lot of prizes about Tilly Tennant and her writing, so when I finally had a chance to get one of her books in my greedy hands, I was really more than happy. I've read "The Man Who Can't Be Moved" some time ago already, so apologies for my late review, but as they say, better late then never. Right?
Ellie is trying to accommodate doing many things at once - her parents have split up and she's operating as a messenger between them. Her aunt Hazel is terminally ill, so she tries to spend as much time with her as possible. She's also trying to have her own social life, and from time to time travels to London to see her best friends. She also wants to do her job as best as she can, and her last assignment is to write a story about Ben Kelly, who decided to camp on a street as long as it gets for his ex - girlfriend Gemma to come back to him. Ellie finds this a great story, and writes not only about Ben, but finds Gemma too, as she wants to know both sides of the story. She really has a lot on her plates, our Ellie, no?
Ellie Newton was an adorable character, trying to please everybody at once, especially her parents. She was ambitious and worked hard to make a name in the journalist world. She was absolutely likeable and realistic and felt like a good friend of yours. Her life was really very busy and hectic, as she tried to reconcile her parents, take care for her ill aunt Hazel, catch up with her friends in London, and looked for interesting topics for her articles. Maybe she just tried to spread herself too thin? It is very noticeable that she put herself and her own needs and comforts at the very end, but it looked natural, she was not selfish or played martyr, oh no, she just was like this and this made her very likeable.
Ben, well, Ben seemed a little too meh to me, as if he hadn't had any backbone. He seemed as if he was ashamed of his dreams and he was just too good to be true. On the other hand, you could feel that he's really a good guy, an honest person.
I liked the chemistry between Ellie and Ben, because there were more than some sparkles, and the way Tilly wrote this sub - plot deserves applause. This part of the book is perfect for hopeless romantics, although not only for them, because I also enjoyed it very much. This attraction between those two didn't seem forced or pushed at all, and the way their friendship (or maybe something more?) developed felt natural, not too rushed and just true.
The women on Constance Street, who came to tend to Ben, were a short breath of fun in the story. It was a great joy to see them all, feeding and drinking him, and spending their whole days on the street, together with him, while their husbands were peering from behind the curtains, being forced to entertain themselves alone for once. So typical women from the neighbourhood, nosy busy - bodies, they were brilliantly portrayed, and their heart of gold personalities just popped out of the pages. Their eagerness, too, especially when there was a journalist or TV - crew around :)
There was also a bunch of background characters in the book, of course, and especially Ellie's work colleagues Ange, Patrick and his wife are worth mentioning. I loved their banter and the way they were with each other, I could see they feel so comfortable in their own company. This feeling of friendship and the fact that they could really rely on each other was a real treat in this story.
You could say that Tilly wrote two stories running parallel in the book, one of Ben and the second of Ellie's parents, and the narration switched from one to the other, but always it was Ellie trying to solve the problems and being in the centre of attention. Nevertheless, I didn't feel overwhelm with her character, no, I just followed her steps and actions and kept my fingers crossed for her. She was so lovely girl that I really couldn't help but wanted that everything went good for her. There were moments that the story - telling felt a little flat, and the story itself dragged a little, but it was mostly quickly paced, and it was in fact Tilly's great writing style that made this book such enjoyable.
But nevertheless, as much as I enjoyed the writing style and characters, I couldn't get through the whole idea of the plot, it just didn't work out for me, I found it unbelievable and altogether, I missed some depth - it was like this story was on a very straight line, going forward, and there was some space above, waiting to be filled by something, by some kind of very unexpected twist, by climax, and I was waiting for this, and nothing happened.
I am just really very sorry, but no, even now, when I am writing this review and trying to imagine a guy camping on the street in winter, it's a no - go for me. I can't. I'd really love to be able to broaden my horizons but it's not possible. I'm not buying it. As much as it seems as a very grand gesture, it just doesn't ring a bell for me and this is my biggest problem with this story. It may sound very romantic but for me it also sounds impossible to be done and it didn't wow me as much as I hoped it would. Nevertheless, I can see that I am in minority here and most of the reader found this book magical, and much more entertaining than yours truly, which, of course, makes me very happy. Just because I am a little sceptical doesn't mean you won't enjoy this light - hearted, easy to read story.
Copy received from the author in exchange for a review.
Ellie is trying to accommodate doing many things at once - her parents have split up and she's operating as a messenger between them. Her aunt Hazel is terminally ill, so she tries to spend as much time with her as possible. She's also trying to have her own social life, and from time to time travels to London to see her best friends. She also wants to do her job as best as she can, and her last assignment is to write a story about Ben Kelly, who decided to camp on a street as long as it gets for his ex - girlfriend Gemma to come back to him. Ellie finds this a great story, and writes not only about Ben, but finds Gemma too, as she wants to know both sides of the story. She really has a lot on her plates, our Ellie, no?
Ellie Newton was an adorable character, trying to please everybody at once, especially her parents. She was ambitious and worked hard to make a name in the journalist world. She was absolutely likeable and realistic and felt like a good friend of yours. Her life was really very busy and hectic, as she tried to reconcile her parents, take care for her ill aunt Hazel, catch up with her friends in London, and looked for interesting topics for her articles. Maybe she just tried to spread herself too thin? It is very noticeable that she put herself and her own needs and comforts at the very end, but it looked natural, she was not selfish or played martyr, oh no, she just was like this and this made her very likeable.
Ben, well, Ben seemed a little too meh to me, as if he hadn't had any backbone. He seemed as if he was ashamed of his dreams and he was just too good to be true. On the other hand, you could feel that he's really a good guy, an honest person.
I liked the chemistry between Ellie and Ben, because there were more than some sparkles, and the way Tilly wrote this sub - plot deserves applause. This part of the book is perfect for hopeless romantics, although not only for them, because I also enjoyed it very much. This attraction between those two didn't seem forced or pushed at all, and the way their friendship (or maybe something more?) developed felt natural, not too rushed and just true.
The women on Constance Street, who came to tend to Ben, were a short breath of fun in the story. It was a great joy to see them all, feeding and drinking him, and spending their whole days on the street, together with him, while their husbands were peering from behind the curtains, being forced to entertain themselves alone for once. So typical women from the neighbourhood, nosy busy - bodies, they were brilliantly portrayed, and their heart of gold personalities just popped out of the pages. Their eagerness, too, especially when there was a journalist or TV - crew around :)
There was also a bunch of background characters in the book, of course, and especially Ellie's work colleagues Ange, Patrick and his wife are worth mentioning. I loved their banter and the way they were with each other, I could see they feel so comfortable in their own company. This feeling of friendship and the fact that they could really rely on each other was a real treat in this story.
You could say that Tilly wrote two stories running parallel in the book, one of Ben and the second of Ellie's parents, and the narration switched from one to the other, but always it was Ellie trying to solve the problems and being in the centre of attention. Nevertheless, I didn't feel overwhelm with her character, no, I just followed her steps and actions and kept my fingers crossed for her. She was so lovely girl that I really couldn't help but wanted that everything went good for her. There were moments that the story - telling felt a little flat, and the story itself dragged a little, but it was mostly quickly paced, and it was in fact Tilly's great writing style that made this book such enjoyable.
But nevertheless, as much as I enjoyed the writing style and characters, I couldn't get through the whole idea of the plot, it just didn't work out for me, I found it unbelievable and altogether, I missed some depth - it was like this story was on a very straight line, going forward, and there was some space above, waiting to be filled by something, by some kind of very unexpected twist, by climax, and I was waiting for this, and nothing happened.
I am just really very sorry, but no, even now, when I am writing this review and trying to imagine a guy camping on the street in winter, it's a no - go for me. I can't. I'd really love to be able to broaden my horizons but it's not possible. I'm not buying it. As much as it seems as a very grand gesture, it just doesn't ring a bell for me and this is my biggest problem with this story. It may sound very romantic but for me it also sounds impossible to be done and it didn't wow me as much as I hoped it would. Nevertheless, I can see that I am in minority here and most of the reader found this book magical, and much more entertaining than yours truly, which, of course, makes me very happy. Just because I am a little sceptical doesn't mean you won't enjoy this light - hearted, easy to read story.
Copy received from the author in exchange for a review.
February 11, 2021
I’m not sure the title is accurate. This was a long wait for little satisfaction.
This story had a bit too much realism for my taste. I get so frustrated with stories of timid, insecure people who won’t speak up for themselves. Even knowing that it is the case in real life as often as not, it is excruciating to read in a romance.
This story had a bit too much realism for my taste. I get so frustrated with stories of timid, insecure people who won’t speak up for themselves. Even knowing that it is the case in real life as often as not, it is excruciating to read in a romance.
July 7, 2021
What a romantic guy that cheated on her girlfriend with the girl who help him win her ex back. Disgusting, this two are so disgusting they thinking they deserve their happines and no matter who gets hurt in the process they are more important couldn't wait to do the right thing and end one relationship to start another one, so entitled, immature cheaters
April 18, 2024
Maybe worth waiting for, but not with reading IMHO. I understand that author's use not ideal characters however this showed too many! Egoistic parents, main make character that doesn't think about future & shows total lack of responsibility, main female character that just goes through life flying as a butterfly from one thing to another... Waste of time, don't bother!
April 26, 2021
This was a light and interesting read. I had a little trouble connecting to the main character, which is why I kept putting it down. But overall, a solid 3.
August 29, 2021
Overall, it was a pleasant read. The attraction between Ellie and Ben is evident but I kept waiting for the story to go somewhere, give us a strong enough conflict/drop, etc., but it never ded.
May 21, 2024
As cosy reads go this is a rather nice one.
September 20, 2024
A sweet HEA by the author.
December 31, 2014
2014 seems to have been the year of discovering new authors for me and although extremely late in the year I have just encountered the wonderful talent of Tilly Tennant. The Man Who Can’t be Moved is Tilly’s second book but the first I have read by this sharp, witting and engaging author. Both the title and cover of this book are so apt for the storyline and I absolutely love the colours used for the cover as they are so warm and inviting. The book is extremely well written and fast paced as I flew through this in a day, this was one of those books that I picked up needing something light after reading a heavy book and found myself halfway through before I knew it lost in the world of Ellie Newton - reporter for the Millrise Echo.
Ellie’s life is a balancing act working as a reporter for the local newspaper, yes this is her dream job but she wishes to rise further in her chosen profession as writing and reporting is her passion. Bored with the usual humdrum run of the mill stories Ellie jumps at the chance to interview a man who has embarked upon an unusual although undoubtedly romantic endeavour. Sent to Constance Street she meets Ben Kelly, who is camped on the street corner where he first met his girlfriend (cue first signs of heart melting for Ben from the reader) but unfortunately they have now split up but Ben is determined to win her back and will stay camped outside for as long as it takes to prove to Gemma that he loves her and wants her back.
Straight away the reader falls for Ben and his ultimate declaration of love, what woman could not help but fall head over heels for a man who does something so selfless, kind and romantic for a woman? Ellie and the female residents of the street see this too and are soon under his spell and want Ben to be reunited with his true love. All the antics of the women of Constance Street are funny to read about as they do their best to outdo each other in order to get their picture in the paper but also to get in there with Ben.
Ellie of course writes up Ben’s story but also goes to visit Gemma (the girlfriend) because as any good reporter knows there are two sides to every story and she soon learns why the couple have split up. Gemma tells Ellie a secret which she must not reveal no matter how tough things get. Ellie is admirable in how she deals with the situation as the more often she visits Ben on his street corner in all kinds of weather she finds herself falling for his charm and wishing she could just be that little bit closer to him. But she knows Gemma’s true intention and would do nothing to stand in the way of a couple finding their hearts desire. Ellie is so considerate as she puts other peoples feeling before her own, if it was anyone else I’m sure we would declare our undying love for Ben and forget all about Gemma but not Ellie she is genuine and courageous and that’s what makes her such a likeable character. Ellie spreads herself very thinly between her job and home life. She lives on her own but family matters put ever increasing pressure on her. Ellie’s Aunt Hazel is suffering from cancer which has just been diagnosed as terminal. Ellie feels the need to be there as much as she can to support her aunt but between work and the demands of her mother and father (who are separated but still as needy as ever) and also friends who live in London, Ellie just feels so stretched and torn that something will have to give sooner or later. Normally I don’t like reading storylines that feature cancer, I just seem to have a thing about it and it makes me upset but here Tilly Tennant dealt with Hazel’s storyline with such sensitivity and respect and the story fitted in extremely well with the overriding themes dealt with in the novel.
Ellie always seemed to be doing everything for everyone else, she is constantly at peoples beck and call putting their needs before her own. Yes this is an honourable thing but not when it starts to affect you and makes you unhappy and under pressure. People are always trying to do the right thing and sometimes we just have to admit to ourselves we need to look after our own personal happiness which will then help us to make other people happy. There are plenty of background characters which all really helped to enrich the story from Angie in the newspaper office to Patrick the photographer - who I really had a soft spot for and these people are all there for Ellie when she needs them.It just takes her time to realise this. Does Ellie give into her feelings for Ben (who was just the most wonderful male character, I think everyone needs a Ben in their life), do Ellie’s parents sort out their differences or does Ben achieve national fame with Gemma? Well if you want to discover the answers to these questions and lots more besides I urge to pick up this brilliant book as Tilly Tennant has done a fantastic job of engaging me in this smart, warm and moving book.
Ellie’s life is a balancing act working as a reporter for the local newspaper, yes this is her dream job but she wishes to rise further in her chosen profession as writing and reporting is her passion. Bored with the usual humdrum run of the mill stories Ellie jumps at the chance to interview a man who has embarked upon an unusual although undoubtedly romantic endeavour. Sent to Constance Street she meets Ben Kelly, who is camped on the street corner where he first met his girlfriend (cue first signs of heart melting for Ben from the reader) but unfortunately they have now split up but Ben is determined to win her back and will stay camped outside for as long as it takes to prove to Gemma that he loves her and wants her back.
Straight away the reader falls for Ben and his ultimate declaration of love, what woman could not help but fall head over heels for a man who does something so selfless, kind and romantic for a woman? Ellie and the female residents of the street see this too and are soon under his spell and want Ben to be reunited with his true love. All the antics of the women of Constance Street are funny to read about as they do their best to outdo each other in order to get their picture in the paper but also to get in there with Ben.
Ellie of course writes up Ben’s story but also goes to visit Gemma (the girlfriend) because as any good reporter knows there are two sides to every story and she soon learns why the couple have split up. Gemma tells Ellie a secret which she must not reveal no matter how tough things get. Ellie is admirable in how she deals with the situation as the more often she visits Ben on his street corner in all kinds of weather she finds herself falling for his charm and wishing she could just be that little bit closer to him. But she knows Gemma’s true intention and would do nothing to stand in the way of a couple finding their hearts desire. Ellie is so considerate as she puts other peoples feeling before her own, if it was anyone else I’m sure we would declare our undying love for Ben and forget all about Gemma but not Ellie she is genuine and courageous and that’s what makes her such a likeable character. Ellie spreads herself very thinly between her job and home life. She lives on her own but family matters put ever increasing pressure on her. Ellie’s Aunt Hazel is suffering from cancer which has just been diagnosed as terminal. Ellie feels the need to be there as much as she can to support her aunt but between work and the demands of her mother and father (who are separated but still as needy as ever) and also friends who live in London, Ellie just feels so stretched and torn that something will have to give sooner or later. Normally I don’t like reading storylines that feature cancer, I just seem to have a thing about it and it makes me upset but here Tilly Tennant dealt with Hazel’s storyline with such sensitivity and respect and the story fitted in extremely well with the overriding themes dealt with in the novel.
Ellie always seemed to be doing everything for everyone else, she is constantly at peoples beck and call putting their needs before her own. Yes this is an honourable thing but not when it starts to affect you and makes you unhappy and under pressure. People are always trying to do the right thing and sometimes we just have to admit to ourselves we need to look after our own personal happiness which will then help us to make other people happy. There are plenty of background characters which all really helped to enrich the story from Angie in the newspaper office to Patrick the photographer - who I really had a soft spot for and these people are all there for Ellie when she needs them.It just takes her time to realise this. Does Ellie give into her feelings for Ben (who was just the most wonderful male character, I think everyone needs a Ben in their life), do Ellie’s parents sort out their differences or does Ben achieve national fame with Gemma? Well if you want to discover the answers to these questions and lots more besides I urge to pick up this brilliant book as Tilly Tennant has done a fantastic job of engaging me in this smart, warm and moving book.
February 4, 2015
First posted on Dreaming With Open Eyes
I'm super delighted to be part of Tilly Tennant's blog Tour for The Man Who Can't Be Moved. This opportunity finally given me the chance to pick up on of Tilly's novels. I remember many bloggers fangirling about her debut novel Hopelessly Devoted to Holden Finn when it came out. Is was very intrigued to give The Man Who Can't Be Moved a go. Not only because of this stunning cover, also I love the titel of this novel. The Script is on of my favourite bands and I couldn't wait to find out in which way their song has inspired her novel.
The Man Who Can't Be Moved is a story that tells a tale of Ellie Newton and Ben Kelly. Ellie is a reporter for the he Millrise Echo; a provincial newspaper with tiny circulation but a huge place in the heart of the local community. Ellie is reporter with hear and soul, writing and reporting is her passion. We quickly disocver Ellie's life is not according to plan at the moment. Ellie has to carry a load on her back. She is busy trying to bring her parents back together because they are on the way to get divorced, taking care for her seriously ill aunt Hazel, trying to impress everyone at the paper and stay in touch with her best friends in London because most of her friends moved away or got married. We see Ellie as she is sent to Constance Street to report on Ben Kelly, a local guy who was camped out on a street corner. He isn't going to move until his ex-girlfriend Gemma, who dumped him, comes back. Ben is determinded to get his girl back with this drastic action to declare his love to Gemma. What woman could not help but fall head over heels for a man who does something so selfless, kind and romantic for a woman? What do you think: Will Ben succeed on his misson? More importantly, what part does Ellie play in all of this?
In the first place I struggeled with the first few chapters of this book. I was a bit confused about the characters. I felt there was not enough explanation who they were and what and why is something happening. After a while I finally settled in the book and I really started to enjoy it. Ellis was a character I liked instantly. She is one of the most caring and selfless characters I have read about in a long time. She is putting other people always first and tries to please everyone. Ben was that kind of character you'll fall in love as soon as you meet him. He is incredibly sweet. A hopless romantic and a dreamer. Sounds like Mr. Perfect right?
There is sub plot featuring Ellis aunt Hazel. It's not easy for me to read sorylines that features cancer. My mother was diagnosed with cancer two times. It always makes me feel uncomfortable to read about it. Tilly has done a great job with dealing Hazel’s storyline with such sensitivity. It was a good contrast to the main storyline. I could connect to Ellie even more and I understood how she felt. I think Hazel was a very well drawn character. She was so stong and still optimstic even though she new her life was going to an end. My favourite quote by her was: "If I only leave you one useful piece of advice for you. It's this: Don't be afaid to fall in love, but handle it better than I did. Don't let anyone make you unhappy." Her story was very touching.
Tilly added some very entertaining backround character to enrich the story. Starting from Patrick, the newspapers photographer, Gemma, Bens ex-girlfriend, who was some good trouble to the story or the women next door who provided Ben with food and drinks, they were such fun to read about.
The Man Who Can't Be Moved is at once romantic and touching with a very clever and entertaining concept which I recommend to all of you.
I'm super delighted to be part of Tilly Tennant's blog Tour for The Man Who Can't Be Moved. This opportunity finally given me the chance to pick up on of Tilly's novels. I remember many bloggers fangirling about her debut novel Hopelessly Devoted to Holden Finn when it came out. Is was very intrigued to give The Man Who Can't Be Moved a go. Not only because of this stunning cover, also I love the titel of this novel. The Script is on of my favourite bands and I couldn't wait to find out in which way their song has inspired her novel.
The Man Who Can't Be Moved is a story that tells a tale of Ellie Newton and Ben Kelly. Ellie is a reporter for the he Millrise Echo; a provincial newspaper with tiny circulation but a huge place in the heart of the local community. Ellie is reporter with hear and soul, writing and reporting is her passion. We quickly disocver Ellie's life is not according to plan at the moment. Ellie has to carry a load on her back. She is busy trying to bring her parents back together because they are on the way to get divorced, taking care for her seriously ill aunt Hazel, trying to impress everyone at the paper and stay in touch with her best friends in London because most of her friends moved away or got married. We see Ellie as she is sent to Constance Street to report on Ben Kelly, a local guy who was camped out on a street corner. He isn't going to move until his ex-girlfriend Gemma, who dumped him, comes back. Ben is determinded to get his girl back with this drastic action to declare his love to Gemma. What woman could not help but fall head over heels for a man who does something so selfless, kind and romantic for a woman? What do you think: Will Ben succeed on his misson? More importantly, what part does Ellie play in all of this?
In the first place I struggeled with the first few chapters of this book. I was a bit confused about the characters. I felt there was not enough explanation who they were and what and why is something happening. After a while I finally settled in the book and I really started to enjoy it. Ellis was a character I liked instantly. She is one of the most caring and selfless characters I have read about in a long time. She is putting other people always first and tries to please everyone. Ben was that kind of character you'll fall in love as soon as you meet him. He is incredibly sweet. A hopless romantic and a dreamer. Sounds like Mr. Perfect right?
There is sub plot featuring Ellis aunt Hazel. It's not easy for me to read sorylines that features cancer. My mother was diagnosed with cancer two times. It always makes me feel uncomfortable to read about it. Tilly has done a great job with dealing Hazel’s storyline with such sensitivity. It was a good contrast to the main storyline. I could connect to Ellie even more and I understood how she felt. I think Hazel was a very well drawn character. She was so stong and still optimstic even though she new her life was going to an end. My favourite quote by her was: "If I only leave you one useful piece of advice for you. It's this: Don't be afaid to fall in love, but handle it better than I did. Don't let anyone make you unhappy." Her story was very touching.
Tilly added some very entertaining backround character to enrich the story. Starting from Patrick, the newspapers photographer, Gemma, Bens ex-girlfriend, who was some good trouble to the story or the women next door who provided Ben with food and drinks, they were such fun to read about.
The Man Who Can't Be Moved is at once romantic and touching with a very clever and entertaining concept which I recommend to all of you.
March 14, 2015
Also posted here: http://lilmissvixreads.blogspot.com/2...
As soon as I saw the title of this book I knew that I had to read it. I love the song of the same name which I'm sure was the source of inspiration and so was interested to see how it translated into a full length novel. I certainly was not disappointed.
Ellie Newton's life is quickly spiralling out of control. With a hectic job at the local newspaper, parents barely on speaking terms, a terminally ill aunt who is cheerful to the last, and friends living it up in London Ellie barely has time to breathe. When news comes in of Ben Kelly, a hopeless romantic who has set up camp on a street corner in the hope of winning back his girlfriend, Ellie jumps at the chance to cover it. She, along with the female residents of Constance Street, falls immediately for his good looks and sweet persona - he even plays the guitar as if he wasn't perfect enough already - but the more time Ellie spends with him it starts to become more than just a crush. Suddenly Ben's ex- girlfriend re-appears on the scene with questionable motives and things become even more complicated...
I really liked Ellie. She is strong and selfless, and with so many people depending on her I don't know how she managed to hold it all together. As the novel got closer to the end I was just hoping that she would put herself first for once and give Ben a chance! As expected, I loved Ben - but then what's not to love? He is the perfect gentleman, and it's no wonder that the men of Constance Street got so jealous at the effect that he had on their wives! Speaking of the Constance Street 'angels', another thing I loved about this book is that it is full of great supporting characters, from the army of women looking after Ben on his street corner to Patrick the charming photographer. The sub-plot with Ellie's Aunt Hazel brings a serious note to the novel, but her illness is sensitively dealt with. I live in a small community myself and the slow-news day stories that the Millrise Echo featured wouldn't have looked out of place in my local paper! I really liked Tilly's writing style and will definitely be reading her other novel, Hopelessly Devoted to Holden Finn, asap!
5/5 stars: With a cast of loveable characters The Man Who Can't Be Moved is a moving and heartwarming tale of family, friendship, and following your heart. The perfect read for Valentine's Day!
*I also had The Man Who Can't Be Moved by The Script stuck in my head for days while I was reading this. Thanks for that Tilly!*
As soon as I saw the title of this book I knew that I had to read it. I love the song of the same name which I'm sure was the source of inspiration and so was interested to see how it translated into a full length novel. I certainly was not disappointed.
Ellie Newton's life is quickly spiralling out of control. With a hectic job at the local newspaper, parents barely on speaking terms, a terminally ill aunt who is cheerful to the last, and friends living it up in London Ellie barely has time to breathe. When news comes in of Ben Kelly, a hopeless romantic who has set up camp on a street corner in the hope of winning back his girlfriend, Ellie jumps at the chance to cover it. She, along with the female residents of Constance Street, falls immediately for his good looks and sweet persona - he even plays the guitar as if he wasn't perfect enough already - but the more time Ellie spends with him it starts to become more than just a crush. Suddenly Ben's ex- girlfriend re-appears on the scene with questionable motives and things become even more complicated...
I really liked Ellie. She is strong and selfless, and with so many people depending on her I don't know how she managed to hold it all together. As the novel got closer to the end I was just hoping that she would put herself first for once and give Ben a chance! As expected, I loved Ben - but then what's not to love? He is the perfect gentleman, and it's no wonder that the men of Constance Street got so jealous at the effect that he had on their wives! Speaking of the Constance Street 'angels', another thing I loved about this book is that it is full of great supporting characters, from the army of women looking after Ben on his street corner to Patrick the charming photographer. The sub-plot with Ellie's Aunt Hazel brings a serious note to the novel, but her illness is sensitively dealt with. I live in a small community myself and the slow-news day stories that the Millrise Echo featured wouldn't have looked out of place in my local paper! I really liked Tilly's writing style and will definitely be reading her other novel, Hopelessly Devoted to Holden Finn, asap!
5/5 stars: With a cast of loveable characters The Man Who Can't Be Moved is a moving and heartwarming tale of family, friendship, and following your heart. The perfect read for Valentine's Day!
*I also had The Man Who Can't Be Moved by The Script stuck in my head for days while I was reading this. Thanks for that Tilly!*
February 27, 2017
I found this story compelling did not want to put it down
Until I had read the. Next chat next chapter to see what happen. Cannot wait for the next book, in the sarga
Until I had read the. Next chat next chapter to see what happen. Cannot wait for the next book, in the sarga
December 13, 2015
Reviewed for A Drop of Romeo.
Any fan of the single “The Man Who Can’t be Moved” by The Script will adore this novel written by Tilly Tennant.
It follows Ellie; a junior journalist for her local paper ‘Millrise Echo’; who is keen to prove herself and is more than happy to follow up the story of a man sitting on a corner waiting for his true love to return to him. What Ellie didn’t expect when she meets and interviews Ben Kelly is that she would find him attractive. However, despite her attractions to the man, Ellie decides that she will help Ben anyway she can win back the woman he loves.
Throughout the novel, Tennant shows us how dynamic Ellie is as a character through all the personal situations she has to contend with. First of all, she’s now dedicated herself to helping Ben win back his ex-girlfriend, Gemma. Secondly, her mother and father have fallen out and separated causing her to be in the middle as they won’t even talk to each other. And thirdly, her Auntie who has been like a second mother to her is terminally ill and deciding whether or not moving into a hospice would be the best thing for her and her family. Ellie’s character realistically copes with these problems and allows the reader to relate to Ellie.
Highlight for me was that there were so many minor characters such as Ellie’s family, her friends, the other members of staff at the Millrise Echo as well as the ladies that lived on the street where Ben was camping out but not once did Tennant lose track of them all or allow them to lose their own personalities. Sometimes you can find authors jumble up characters names and personalities when they have so much going on but this never happened in ‘The Man Who Can’t Be Moved’ and Tennant managed to make the reader also like them. I absolutely loved the “Constance Street” girls that took Ben under their wing as he camped out on their street corner.
“The Man Who Can’t be Moved” is a quick, fun, light hearted read which will not only have you wanting to listen to the song by The Script – Tennant actually mentions the song in her book! – repeatedly but it’ll also have you believing in romance all over again.
Any fan of the single “The Man Who Can’t be Moved” by The Script will adore this novel written by Tilly Tennant.
It follows Ellie; a junior journalist for her local paper ‘Millrise Echo’; who is keen to prove herself and is more than happy to follow up the story of a man sitting on a corner waiting for his true love to return to him. What Ellie didn’t expect when she meets and interviews Ben Kelly is that she would find him attractive. However, despite her attractions to the man, Ellie decides that she will help Ben anyway she can win back the woman he loves.
Throughout the novel, Tennant shows us how dynamic Ellie is as a character through all the personal situations she has to contend with. First of all, she’s now dedicated herself to helping Ben win back his ex-girlfriend, Gemma. Secondly, her mother and father have fallen out and separated causing her to be in the middle as they won’t even talk to each other. And thirdly, her Auntie who has been like a second mother to her is terminally ill and deciding whether or not moving into a hospice would be the best thing for her and her family. Ellie’s character realistically copes with these problems and allows the reader to relate to Ellie.
Highlight for me was that there were so many minor characters such as Ellie’s family, her friends, the other members of staff at the Millrise Echo as well as the ladies that lived on the street where Ben was camping out but not once did Tennant lose track of them all or allow them to lose their own personalities. Sometimes you can find authors jumble up characters names and personalities when they have so much going on but this never happened in ‘The Man Who Can’t Be Moved’ and Tennant managed to make the reader also like them. I absolutely loved the “Constance Street” girls that took Ben under their wing as he camped out on their street corner.
“The Man Who Can’t be Moved” is a quick, fun, light hearted read which will not only have you wanting to listen to the song by The Script – Tennant actually mentions the song in her book! – repeatedly but it’ll also have you believing in romance all over again.
February 16, 2015
Firstly thank you to Tilly and Brook Cottage Books for sending me a copy of this title for review and asking me to be part of the blog tour! I read Tilly’s first book when it came out last year and really enjoyed it so I was looking forward to book two! I liked the cheeky little mention of the characters from Hopelessly Devoted to Holden Finn too!
This is all about journalist Ellie Newton and one of her subjects.
Ellie is really easy to like and relate to. She’s just a normal girl trying to reach her ambitions with normal family circumstances that every reader will be able to relate to in some way.
Ellie’s job is to report the goings on in her town of Millrise. A new story breaks about a man who is camping on a street corner as a declaration of love and Ellie goes out to get the story. This is how we meet Ben. Now in my mind, and most likely due to the title of the book, I totally imagined Ben Kelly to look like Danny from The Script - *swoon*. Ben has what seems like a very romantic notion to stick it out in an almost protest to try and win his girlfriend back. I liked his easy-going nature that shone through from the first time Ellie met him and I could see the attraction forming between the two characters.
Alongside the story of Ben and his corner there is another story running in the background with Ellie’s aunt and her mum and dad. The story shifts focus from Ben to Ellie’s family and then back again throughout but I felt that each strand was tied to the other as Ellie tried to make the best of less than perfect situations and it also showcased how Ellie was always trying to please everyone around her.
I liked that Tilly didn’t try to ignore the similarity between the song and the circumstances in the book – even referencing it at one point. This is a lovely easy read which will pull you in, having you turning the pages until, before you even realise, you’re finished!
This is all about journalist Ellie Newton and one of her subjects.
Ellie is really easy to like and relate to. She’s just a normal girl trying to reach her ambitions with normal family circumstances that every reader will be able to relate to in some way.
Ellie’s job is to report the goings on in her town of Millrise. A new story breaks about a man who is camping on a street corner as a declaration of love and Ellie goes out to get the story. This is how we meet Ben. Now in my mind, and most likely due to the title of the book, I totally imagined Ben Kelly to look like Danny from The Script - *swoon*. Ben has what seems like a very romantic notion to stick it out in an almost protest to try and win his girlfriend back. I liked his easy-going nature that shone through from the first time Ellie met him and I could see the attraction forming between the two characters.
Alongside the story of Ben and his corner there is another story running in the background with Ellie’s aunt and her mum and dad. The story shifts focus from Ben to Ellie’s family and then back again throughout but I felt that each strand was tied to the other as Ellie tried to make the best of less than perfect situations and it also showcased how Ellie was always trying to please everyone around her.
I liked that Tilly didn’t try to ignore the similarity between the song and the circumstances in the book – even referencing it at one point. This is a lovely easy read which will pull you in, having you turning the pages until, before you even realise, you’re finished!
January 23, 2015
I was given a free copy of the book as part of this book tour. I enjoyed this romantic chick lit read! The premise was unique. Ellie is a journalist covering the story of "the man who can't be moved," Ben Kelly. Ben is waiting at the street corner where he met his girlfriend in order to convince her to take him back. The story gets bigger and bigger and Ellie even meets Ben's ex-girlfriend to get her side of the story.
Ellie is intrigued by Ben's story, but starts to fall for him. In the meantime, she has a lot of family drama going on- with a sick aunt and parents who are separating. Ellie feels like she has to hold the family together and try to get her parents back together, even if it means being at their every beck and call.
I really loved the character of Hazel, Ellie's aunt. She was very wise in her old age, but not pushy with her wisdom. She was also sassy and kept her sense of humor and love of life even with her illness. I also loved the "Constance Street" girls. They were all in love with Ben and excited about the media attention. They adopted him as their own. Ellie herself was a likable character. She tried to do the right thing all the time, even when she wasn't sure what it was.I really appreciate integrity in a main character, even when it's difficult. I liked Ben for the most part, but I didn't like what he was doing, as it seemed so desperate. I definitely liked him more by the end. The secondary characters, like Ellie's friends, were also interesting.
The book drags a little in the middle, but really picks up near the end. Most of the time, I felt it moved along at a good pace. Many unpredictable things happened that moved the story along. I love unpredictable-ness in a chick lit! The writing style was extremely engaging. It was easy-to-read and light-hearted. I would definitely recommend this book for a fun, easy, heartwarming story!
Ellie is intrigued by Ben's story, but starts to fall for him. In the meantime, she has a lot of family drama going on- with a sick aunt and parents who are separating. Ellie feels like she has to hold the family together and try to get her parents back together, even if it means being at their every beck and call.
I really loved the character of Hazel, Ellie's aunt. She was very wise in her old age, but not pushy with her wisdom. She was also sassy and kept her sense of humor and love of life even with her illness. I also loved the "Constance Street" girls. They were all in love with Ben and excited about the media attention. They adopted him as their own. Ellie herself was a likable character. She tried to do the right thing all the time, even when she wasn't sure what it was.I really appreciate integrity in a main character, even when it's difficult. I liked Ben for the most part, but I didn't like what he was doing, as it seemed so desperate. I definitely liked him more by the end. The secondary characters, like Ellie's friends, were also interesting.
The book drags a little in the middle, but really picks up near the end. Most of the time, I felt it moved along at a good pace. Many unpredictable things happened that moved the story along. I love unpredictable-ness in a chick lit! The writing style was extremely engaging. It was easy-to-read and light-hearted. I would definitely recommend this book for a fun, easy, heartwarming story!
February 10, 2015
Poor Ellie Newton is being pulled in a million different directions. And we all know how that feels! She is desperately working her socks off working hard to make her name in journalism whilst at the same time trying to get her stubborn parents back together and help out with her aunt Hazel who is very ill. And then, along comes a story in the shape of Ben, to totally cause confusion in Ellie's heart!
I love my job as a book blogger and promoter because I get to read so many books! Now and again a book comes along that makes you lie in bed and refuse to get up until you have read the very last page. The Man Who Can't be Moved is one such book. I could not get enough of this book and every one of its wonderful host of characters. Its very rare that you find a book were you adore all the characters...........well except of course the horrible Gemma but its ok to hate her! Tilly Tennant has created such a wonderful story to totally capture the imagination of the reader. There are some wonderfully funny moments and a few sad ones in the book and I will admit to shedding the odd tear here and there. Plus, I think I not only fell in love with the main character Ben, but also with Jethro and Patrick. Who wouldn't want these adorable blokes in their life? Ellie is one lucky girl!
I totally loved the idea of a story based around the hit song by the Script. The idea of someone waiting on a street corner until the love of his life returns to him. How wonderful! I often read books and thing...........oh that should be made into a movie............The Man Who Can't be Moved has now been added to that list! I cannot recommend this book highly enough. Go out and buy it. Right now!
I love my job as a book blogger and promoter because I get to read so many books! Now and again a book comes along that makes you lie in bed and refuse to get up until you have read the very last page. The Man Who Can't be Moved is one such book. I could not get enough of this book and every one of its wonderful host of characters. Its very rare that you find a book were you adore all the characters...........well except of course the horrible Gemma but its ok to hate her! Tilly Tennant has created such a wonderful story to totally capture the imagination of the reader. There are some wonderfully funny moments and a few sad ones in the book and I will admit to shedding the odd tear here and there. Plus, I think I not only fell in love with the main character Ben, but also with Jethro and Patrick. Who wouldn't want these adorable blokes in their life? Ellie is one lucky girl!
I totally loved the idea of a story based around the hit song by the Script. The idea of someone waiting on a street corner until the love of his life returns to him. How wonderful! I often read books and thing...........oh that should be made into a movie............The Man Who Can't be Moved has now been added to that list! I cannot recommend this book highly enough. Go out and buy it. Right now!
February 22, 2015
After tearing through Tilly Tennants first novel "Hopelessly Devoted to Holden Finn" last year, I bought this straight away when I saw it on Amazon.
"The Man Who Can't Be Moved" (yes, it's based on the song by The Script - and yes, you'll be singing it the whole way through) is a light hearted book about Ellie Newton, a journalist for the Millrise Echo. The book is set in the same world as the Holden Finn one, which I liked - one or two little mentions of Finn and an event in the previous book made me smile. It's not a series, you don't have to have read the other one, it's not a continuation.
Ellie is under pressure from her parents - they have split up and both are depending on her. Added to that, her Aunt Hazel is terminally ill. Ellie is assigned to the story of "The Man Who Can't Be Moved" - a man named Ben Kelly who has decided to camp out on the corner of a street in order to get his ex girlfriend Gemma to come back to him. Ben is trying to prove to Gemma that he is capable of making a grand gesture for her - but does Gemma notice? Or care? And is Ellie using the situation to try and make herself feel better about not being able to get her parents back together?
This was a nice, light read. I read it in about a day and a half, it's perfect for lying on the couch with. I liked Ellie, I liked the writing (apart from everyone having "huge eyes" - they were beginning to look like Manga characters in my head), and I liked the story. It's not going to win a Pulitzer, but it's definitely something that will cheer you up if you're feeling a bit miserable.
Looking forward to more from Tilly Tennant.
"The Man Who Can't Be Moved" (yes, it's based on the song by The Script - and yes, you'll be singing it the whole way through) is a light hearted book about Ellie Newton, a journalist for the Millrise Echo. The book is set in the same world as the Holden Finn one, which I liked - one or two little mentions of Finn and an event in the previous book made me smile. It's not a series, you don't have to have read the other one, it's not a continuation.
Ellie is under pressure from her parents - they have split up and both are depending on her. Added to that, her Aunt Hazel is terminally ill. Ellie is assigned to the story of "The Man Who Can't Be Moved" - a man named Ben Kelly who has decided to camp out on the corner of a street in order to get his ex girlfriend Gemma to come back to him. Ben is trying to prove to Gemma that he is capable of making a grand gesture for her - but does Gemma notice? Or care? And is Ellie using the situation to try and make herself feel better about not being able to get her parents back together?
This was a nice, light read. I read it in about a day and a half, it's perfect for lying on the couch with. I liked Ellie, I liked the writing (apart from everyone having "huge eyes" - they were beginning to look like Manga characters in my head), and I liked the story. It's not going to win a Pulitzer, but it's definitely something that will cheer you up if you're feeling a bit miserable.
Looking forward to more from Tilly Tennant.
March 11, 2015
Originally posted on: http://www.albainbookland.com/2015/03...
I had heard so many ravishing comments about Tilly Tennant's work that I couldn't wait to read her books myself. After finishing The Man Who Can't Be Moved, I now understand all the comments. This book is one of those fresh feel-good stories that you can devour in a couple of sitting and end up with a huge grin on your face.
Ellie is the kind of heroine we all love. A little shinning star that tries to help everyone forgetting a bit about herself. I really liked her down-to-earth character and easy-going attitude. And her curiosity for everything made her a really good reporter, maybe too good, as her interest on her last story, the Man Who Can't Be Moved, made her get out of her comfort zone. The Man in question, Ben, also seemed like a great guy, a bit lost though. And from their very first interaction I could see the sparks flying between them. Actually, I would have liked to see more interactions between these two.
But this story is not only about romance. Tilly handles more serious topics too, Ellie's aunt is terminally-ill. I was positively surprised to see how beautifully handled was this part, with the perfect touch of sadness but hope too.
The Man Who Can't Be Moved is a cute story with lots of love, fun and laughs that any romance-lover will enjoy immensely.
I had heard so many ravishing comments about Tilly Tennant's work that I couldn't wait to read her books myself. After finishing The Man Who Can't Be Moved, I now understand all the comments. This book is one of those fresh feel-good stories that you can devour in a couple of sitting and end up with a huge grin on your face.
Ellie is the kind of heroine we all love. A little shinning star that tries to help everyone forgetting a bit about herself. I really liked her down-to-earth character and easy-going attitude. And her curiosity for everything made her a really good reporter, maybe too good, as her interest on her last story, the Man Who Can't Be Moved, made her get out of her comfort zone. The Man in question, Ben, also seemed like a great guy, a bit lost though. And from their very first interaction I could see the sparks flying between them. Actually, I would have liked to see more interactions between these two.
But this story is not only about romance. Tilly handles more serious topics too, Ellie's aunt is terminally-ill. I was positively surprised to see how beautifully handled was this part, with the perfect touch of sadness but hope too.
The Man Who Can't Be Moved is a cute story with lots of love, fun and laughs that any romance-lover will enjoy immensely.
March 8, 2015
I really can’t remember where I got a copy of this book from. I think it maybe one I purchased. I do put my review copies first but as I have been having a bit of a slump reading I took the advice of the lovely Sophie from Reviewed The Book and have read what I fancied reading.
When we first meet Ellie she is dashing about covering stores and also helping her parents, Ellis is one of life’s givers she always thinks of herself before others. Not just her parents but her Aunt who is seriously ill.
Ellie is then given the story of Ben, he is sitting on the corner of a street in the little town of Millrise, waiting for his lost love Gemma to take him back. He is hoping that it will prove to Gemma just how much he loves her. He is The Man Who can’t be Moved, not even when the police or the council turn up. He also has a set of adoring fans, the ladies that live on the street who set out to protect him.
I loved how this story had Ben and Ellie spending time together when he was on the street corner. Gemma I really didn't like from the word go and think Ellie should have given her a piece of her mind but that isn't her character. This is a lovely sweet romance with wonderful supporting characters. I'm sure another story could come from some of these especially Patrick and his wife. Or Angie that works at the paper with Ellie.
If you’re looking for a wonderfully sweet love story then look no further, this is one of my favourite reads for awhile.
When we first meet Ellie she is dashing about covering stores and also helping her parents, Ellis is one of life’s givers she always thinks of herself before others. Not just her parents but her Aunt who is seriously ill.
Ellie is then given the story of Ben, he is sitting on the corner of a street in the little town of Millrise, waiting for his lost love Gemma to take him back. He is hoping that it will prove to Gemma just how much he loves her. He is The Man Who can’t be Moved, not even when the police or the council turn up. He also has a set of adoring fans, the ladies that live on the street who set out to protect him.
I loved how this story had Ben and Ellie spending time together when he was on the street corner. Gemma I really didn't like from the word go and think Ellie should have given her a piece of her mind but that isn't her character. This is a lovely sweet romance with wonderful supporting characters. I'm sure another story could come from some of these especially Patrick and his wife. Or Angie that works at the paper with Ellie.
If you’re looking for a wonderfully sweet love story then look no further, this is one of my favourite reads for awhile.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews