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The Year of Taking Chances
It's New Year's Eve, and Gemma and Spencer Bailey are throwing a house party. There's music, dancing, champagne and all their best friends under one roof. It's going to be a night to remember.
Also at the party is Caitlin, who has returned to the village to pack up her much-missed mum's house and to figure out what to do with her life; and Saffron, a PR executive who's keeping a secret which no amount of spin can change. The three women bond over Gemma's dodgy cocktails and fortune cookies, and vow to make this year their best one yet.
But as the following months unfold, Gemma, Saffron and Caitlin find themselves tested to their limits by shocking new developments. Family, love, work, home - all the things they've taken for granted - are thrown into disarray. Under pressure, they are each forced to rethink their lives and start over. But dare they take a chance on something new?
Also at the party is Caitlin, who has returned to the village to pack up her much-missed mum's house and to figure out what to do with her life; and Saffron, a PR executive who's keeping a secret which no amount of spin can change. The three women bond over Gemma's dodgy cocktails and fortune cookies, and vow to make this year their best one yet.
But as the following months unfold, Gemma, Saffron and Caitlin find themselves tested to their limits by shocking new developments. Family, love, work, home - all the things they've taken for granted - are thrown into disarray. Under pressure, they are each forced to rethink their lives and start over. But dare they take a chance on something new?
454 pages, Paperback
First published December 15, 2014
150 people are currently reading
3103 people want to read
About the author
Lucy Diamond
82 books1,429 followersLibrarian note:
There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name
First of all, a confession. My name isn’t really Lucy Diamond at all, it’s Sue Mongredien. I’ve used a pen name because ‘Diamond’ is a lot easier to spell and pronounce than ‘Mongredien’ and also because I’ve written lots of children’s books too and wanted to keep the genres separate. (There is actually another Lucy Diamond on Amazon who writes religious children’s books. That isn’t me, though.)
I was born in 1970 and grew up in Nottingham. I read English at Leeds University then moved to London and worked for various publishers before I packed it all in to go travelling around the world for a year and a half. When I came back to the UK, I worked in publishing again, then moved to the BBC. I now live in Bath with my husband and three young children and divide my time between writing and looking after them. You can have a look at my children’s books here.
Favourite things: beaches, holidays, chocolate, wine, reading, Green Wing, bubble baths, sunshine, hearing my children laugh, babysitters
Favourite books: The Magus (John Fowles), The Edible Woman (Margaret Atwood), The Secret History (Donna Tartt), The Colour of Memory (Geoff Dyer)
There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name
First of all, a confession. My name isn’t really Lucy Diamond at all, it’s Sue Mongredien. I’ve used a pen name because ‘Diamond’ is a lot easier to spell and pronounce than ‘Mongredien’ and also because I’ve written lots of children’s books too and wanted to keep the genres separate. (There is actually another Lucy Diamond on Amazon who writes religious children’s books. That isn’t me, though.)
I was born in 1970 and grew up in Nottingham. I read English at Leeds University then moved to London and worked for various publishers before I packed it all in to go travelling around the world for a year and a half. When I came back to the UK, I worked in publishing again, then moved to the BBC. I now live in Bath with my husband and three young children and divide my time between writing and looking after them. You can have a look at my children’s books here.
Favourite things: beaches, holidays, chocolate, wine, reading, Green Wing, bubble baths, sunshine, hearing my children laugh, babysitters
Favourite books: The Magus (John Fowles), The Edible Woman (Margaret Atwood), The Secret History (Donna Tartt), The Colour of Memory (Geoff Dyer)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 397 reviews
January 7, 2015
I started reading The Year of Taking Chances on New Year’s Eve and it was the perfect book to start 2015 with! The book follows three characters who meet at a New Year’s Eve party and whose lives intertwine as we follow them throughout the year.
My favourite character, and the main character of the story, is Gemma who has a picture perfect life until her husband is in a terrible accident that leaves him both depressed and unable to work. Now Gemma’s struggling to make ends meet and to be the glue that holds her family together during such a hard time. Next up is Caitlin who lost the two most important people in her life in one day when her mum passed away and she returned home looking for comfort only to find her boyfriend cheating on her with a friend. Then there’s Saffron who has just discovered that she’s pregnant. The baby’s father doesn’t want to know and she’s dreading telling her sister who is undergoing IVF trying to get pregnant. All three women are going through an awful time but are hopeful that a change will soon come.
What I really enjoyed about The Year of Taking Chances is how the book is about ordinary acts of bravery. All too often New Year is seen as a time for a dramatic lifestyle change and a strict list of resolutions but this book shows that a far better approach is to take small baby steps and make gradual changes towards the life you want. It made the book that much more relatable and inspiring to read and it was great to see each character slowly grow in confidence throughout the year.
Despite being busy with New Year celebrations I flew through this book because I was so caught up in the characters’ lives. The Year of Taking Chances is a brilliant new year, new me book and is one that I’d recommend to anyone who is going through a tough time and hoping for a better year ahead.
My favourite character, and the main character of the story, is Gemma who has a picture perfect life until her husband is in a terrible accident that leaves him both depressed and unable to work. Now Gemma’s struggling to make ends meet and to be the glue that holds her family together during such a hard time. Next up is Caitlin who lost the two most important people in her life in one day when her mum passed away and she returned home looking for comfort only to find her boyfriend cheating on her with a friend. Then there’s Saffron who has just discovered that she’s pregnant. The baby’s father doesn’t want to know and she’s dreading telling her sister who is undergoing IVF trying to get pregnant. All three women are going through an awful time but are hopeful that a change will soon come.
What I really enjoyed about The Year of Taking Chances is how the book is about ordinary acts of bravery. All too often New Year is seen as a time for a dramatic lifestyle change and a strict list of resolutions but this book shows that a far better approach is to take small baby steps and make gradual changes towards the life you want. It made the book that much more relatable and inspiring to read and it was great to see each character slowly grow in confidence throughout the year.
Despite being busy with New Year celebrations I flew through this book because I was so caught up in the characters’ lives. The Year of Taking Chances is a brilliant new year, new me book and is one that I’d recommend to anyone who is going through a tough time and hoping for a better year ahead.
June 24, 2017
A lovely read :)
December 15, 2017
Apologies for those that don't want a lengthy or waffle like review but, well sometimes needs must. Many people know me for my Book Blogging and other know me as a friend etc. What connection some people don't make is that I also run my own business. A business that was born from a seedling of an idea that came from a book by none other than the lovely Sue, or as others know her Lucy Diamond. For that reason even 5 years on, with my business growing at an alarming rate, but stresses of life getting me down a bit, I did what I have done in the past and turned to a book written by the wonderful lady herself.
I picked this one up as I still have a few of hers left that I haven't read and figured there was nothing better to lift me out of the gloom that a book written by Sue. Thankfully my wishes were granted as I raced through this book in one day, over two sittings and that feeling of gloom has lifted a little. The book was an absolute corker and brought me out of the feeling sorry for myself phase. Thee women have a chance meeting at a New Years Eve Party and from that point on they all become intertwined in each others lives.
I particularly liked Gemma Bailey. The married Mum of two who seems to have a wondrfully settled life with a great husband and wonderful home, until an event changes her life in an instant. Then there is Caitlin who is trying to work through her grief after losing her Mum. She returns to Larkmead to try and sort out her Mum's house but whilst there she not only befriends Gemma and Saffron, but she discovers some things about herself which will alter her life. Saffron, the thrid and final of the trio is a PR exec just on a visit from London trying to clear her head.
These three characters were a pure joy to read about. Nothing about their journey's was easy, but they were done with the support of family and friends. The story kept me engaged from start to finish and I was genuinely anoyed to have finished. Luckily for me I have another couple of LD books to keep me going. Some may say this book is predictable, but for me this is the perfect balance. A sheer joy to read and another reason for me to thank my lucky stars that Sue managed to inspire enough confidence in me to give my own business a go.
I picked this one up as I still have a few of hers left that I haven't read and figured there was nothing better to lift me out of the gloom that a book written by Sue. Thankfully my wishes were granted as I raced through this book in one day, over two sittings and that feeling of gloom has lifted a little. The book was an absolute corker and brought me out of the feeling sorry for myself phase. Thee women have a chance meeting at a New Years Eve Party and from that point on they all become intertwined in each others lives.
I particularly liked Gemma Bailey. The married Mum of two who seems to have a wondrfully settled life with a great husband and wonderful home, until an event changes her life in an instant. Then there is Caitlin who is trying to work through her grief after losing her Mum. She returns to Larkmead to try and sort out her Mum's house but whilst there she not only befriends Gemma and Saffron, but she discovers some things about herself which will alter her life. Saffron, the thrid and final of the trio is a PR exec just on a visit from London trying to clear her head.
These three characters were a pure joy to read about. Nothing about their journey's was easy, but they were done with the support of family and friends. The story kept me engaged from start to finish and I was genuinely anoyed to have finished. Luckily for me I have another couple of LD books to keep me going. Some may say this book is predictable, but for me this is the perfect balance. A sheer joy to read and another reason for me to thank my lucky stars that Sue managed to inspire enough confidence in me to give my own business a go.
March 24, 2015
Just the type of cheesy, romantic and drama filled chick lit I love.
I'm off to look for more books by Lucy Diamond...
I'm off to look for more books by Lucy Diamond...
December 31, 2014
New Year's Eve is a funny time of year, and my least favourite. I spend each one reflecting on the year just gone, and on the one ahead and each year my thoughts become more negative and I vow to do something to change that. I hate the fakeness of it, whether that be making resolutions you'll have forgotten about by February or having to wish family members you can't stand the rest of the year 'All the best'. I've never liked it, that said Lucy Diamond is one of my favourite Women's Fiction writers (The Beach Café being one of my favourites), and I couldn't pass up the opportunity to read this book. It being New Year and the characters making resolutions is just the basis of the story though, and there's so much more to the story. I was only a couple of chapters in when I realised I was in for the long haul. Don't start this book unless you have a very clear schedule!
What I love about Lucy's books is her ability to create realistic characters, strong women not without their flaws but real characters that female readers can really get behind, and relate to. Here we have three very different women and even in the opening chapters I found myself understanding the fears that Gemma was expressing about her life. Overhearing her daughter describing her as 'just a Mum' has thrown her a little bit, does she want to be 'just a Mum' when her friends are juggling motherhood and successful careers? I don't have children but still at just 24 am not fulfilling any dreams I might have had growing up, children say it like it is and so how would one that knows me describe me? It was certainly a wake-up call for Gemma and the start of her journey in the book. Caitlin has returned to the village to pack up her Mum's house and to figure out what to do with her life while Saffron, a PR executive is hiding a secret that even her talents can't make any better. These three women bond at Gemma's New Year's Eve party, making a promise that the upcoming year will be their best one yet. Little do they know that it's not going to be easy.
Despite my dislike of the New Year and what it signifies I found myself completely enthralled reading about the lives of these three women, Gemma especially, each almost having to find themselves again as they attempt to better their lives and themselves. Lucy handles some sensitive subjects expertly but rather than the book becoming dull or morbid it is infused with humour throughout, bringing some real laugh out loud moments and leaving you with a smile on your face. There are some emotional parts in the book as well, I found myself really caring for these characters from very early on and felt as if I knew them so really felt an emotional connection towards them. If I'm honest I was a little sad when the book was over! I loved spending a few days in the company of these characters, and I think Lucy Diamond fans are going to completely love this book too. It's shown me that perhaps the resolutions we make are possible, it just requires real effort. Seeing these characters better themselves, and finding happiness has left me wanting to do the same thing. It is a life-affirming read, and a book I think is perfect for kicking off your reading year. How long until the next book Lucy?
Thanks to the publisher for the review copy.
What I love about Lucy's books is her ability to create realistic characters, strong women not without their flaws but real characters that female readers can really get behind, and relate to. Here we have three very different women and even in the opening chapters I found myself understanding the fears that Gemma was expressing about her life. Overhearing her daughter describing her as 'just a Mum' has thrown her a little bit, does she want to be 'just a Mum' when her friends are juggling motherhood and successful careers? I don't have children but still at just 24 am not fulfilling any dreams I might have had growing up, children say it like it is and so how would one that knows me describe me? It was certainly a wake-up call for Gemma and the start of her journey in the book. Caitlin has returned to the village to pack up her Mum's house and to figure out what to do with her life while Saffron, a PR executive is hiding a secret that even her talents can't make any better. These three women bond at Gemma's New Year's Eve party, making a promise that the upcoming year will be their best one yet. Little do they know that it's not going to be easy.
Despite my dislike of the New Year and what it signifies I found myself completely enthralled reading about the lives of these three women, Gemma especially, each almost having to find themselves again as they attempt to better their lives and themselves. Lucy handles some sensitive subjects expertly but rather than the book becoming dull or morbid it is infused with humour throughout, bringing some real laugh out loud moments and leaving you with a smile on your face. There are some emotional parts in the book as well, I found myself really caring for these characters from very early on and felt as if I knew them so really felt an emotional connection towards them. If I'm honest I was a little sad when the book was over! I loved spending a few days in the company of these characters, and I think Lucy Diamond fans are going to completely love this book too. It's shown me that perhaps the resolutions we make are possible, it just requires real effort. Seeing these characters better themselves, and finding happiness has left me wanting to do the same thing. It is a life-affirming read, and a book I think is perfect for kicking off your reading year. How long until the next book Lucy?
Thanks to the publisher for the review copy.
October 2, 2020
Three women Gemma, Catlin and Saffron who could all be lead characters on their own but blend so well together. I couldn't pick a favourite out of them I loved them all equally and that is a good thing. Sometimes it's one character leading the book this was not the case in A Year of Taking Chances. They make the story enjoyable and a quick read.
Gemma has the so called perfect life a perfect husband with two kids. Until an accident happens at her husband's work and their relationship is put to a test?
Saffron always seems to have been obsessed with her work until a man called Max comes along. He's messed up in the past with his two kids but can they work out their troubles better together?
While Catlin has had a hard time with the passing of her mum but can she find happiness with a man whose name sounds so much like Harry Styles.
Gemma has the so called perfect life a perfect husband with two kids. Until an accident happens at her husband's work and their relationship is put to a test?
Saffron always seems to have been obsessed with her work until a man called Max comes along. He's messed up in the past with his two kids but can they work out their troubles better together?
While Catlin has had a hard time with the passing of her mum but can she find happiness with a man whose name sounds so much like Harry Styles.
March 2, 2017
DNF at page 180.
I'm just not interested in this at all.
I'm just not interested in this at all.
January 4, 2015
*Book provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
Three different women, three different stories… But they are all connected and it all starts New Year’s Eve, with some resolutions.
Each one of them is in for something new and changes are ahead. Can they stand the pressure and be strong?!
When Gemma’s husband Spencer has an accident Gemma sees her family life turned upside down. Spencer is not the same anymore and they kids… Then Spencer is gone…
Saffron is pregnant, but what about the father?! She writes him a letter, but finds out weeks later that she didn’t post it. Now she has to face him and tell him the truth. And she is also in for a change in her job and living situation.
Caitlin finds out something that might change her life and she meets a guy, but is he the right one for her?!
The three women bond and built up a strong friendship. I was glad they had each other throughout the story and they were always there for each other. They also build up a great business.
This book is about family and friendship, the good and bad times and so much more. Lucy found a great way to include all three women into the story, change the perspective from chapter to chapter. I liked them all from the start and enjoyed being part of their story.
I loved how they all had their own story to tell, but then it was one story combining the three of them - great! Oh and the title is perfect for the book...
Rating: 4.5
Three different women, three different stories… But they are all connected and it all starts New Year’s Eve, with some resolutions.
Each one of them is in for something new and changes are ahead. Can they stand the pressure and be strong?!
When Gemma’s husband Spencer has an accident Gemma sees her family life turned upside down. Spencer is not the same anymore and they kids… Then Spencer is gone…
Saffron is pregnant, but what about the father?! She writes him a letter, but finds out weeks later that she didn’t post it. Now she has to face him and tell him the truth. And she is also in for a change in her job and living situation.
Caitlin finds out something that might change her life and she meets a guy, but is he the right one for her?!
The three women bond and built up a strong friendship. I was glad they had each other throughout the story and they were always there for each other. They also build up a great business.
This book is about family and friendship, the good and bad times and so much more. Lucy found a great way to include all three women into the story, change the perspective from chapter to chapter. I liked them all from the start and enjoyed being part of their story.
I loved how they all had their own story to tell, but then it was one story combining the three of them - great! Oh and the title is perfect for the book...
Rating: 4.5
June 18, 2015
It is New Year’s Eve and three women come together, purely by circumstance, who can have no idea of how important their evolving friendship will become as each faces difficulties and changes in their lives.
This was another lovely story of friendship and drama from Lucy Diamond, she has just the right touch with her characters, some are flawed but they are all realistic and believable. I warmed to each of the three women straight away and was hoping that all would turn out well for them. One character in particular, who I initially took a dislike to turned out to be an unexpected delight. The story was structured so that each of the three stories were combined seamlessly into a humorous and heart-warming read. I enjoyed every page and look forward to reading more by this author.
This was another lovely story of friendship and drama from Lucy Diamond, she has just the right touch with her characters, some are flawed but they are all realistic and believable. I warmed to each of the three women straight away and was hoping that all would turn out well for them. One character in particular, who I initially took a dislike to turned out to be an unexpected delight. The story was structured so that each of the three stories were combined seamlessly into a humorous and heart-warming read. I enjoyed every page and look forward to reading more by this author.
February 8, 2015
I have read quite a few of Lucy's books now and they never fail to disappoint. You do feel as if you know all the characters personally and Lucy brings real life problems to her stories which people will be able to sympathise with. Brilliant story, Brilliant characters and a Brilliant author. Will really be looking forward to Lucy Diamond's next book.
May 9, 2016
Príbeh začína na Silvestra. Zhodou okolností sa práve v posledný deň v roku stretávajú/spoznávajú tri ženy, ktoré sú od seba veľmi odlišné. Gemma je šťastne vydatá žienka v domácnosti, ktorá by sa rozdala ako manželovi Spencerovi, tak i svojim dvom ratolestiam - pubertálnemu synovi Willovi a iba o niečo mladšej dcérke Darcey.
Caitlin je naopak nešťastná, pretože okrem toho, že sa s ňou rozišiel priateľ Flynn a svojimi krutými výrokmi jej poriadne podkopal sebavedomie, prišla ešte aj o prácu. Aby zmenila svoj život od základov, rozhodla sa opustiť mesto a vrátiť sa do rodného kraja. Tam, v dome, v ktorom vyrastala, ju čaká ťažká skúška. Potrebuje pretriediť veci po nedávno zosnulej matke. A popri tom narazí na tajomstvo, ktoré jej matka celé roky zamlčala.
A nakoniec je tu Saffron, 38-ročná žena, ktorá svoj život zasvätila kariére. Darí sa jej v PR oblasti a má priateľa Maxa, s ktorým si výborne rozumie. Aby vyriešila navstávajúci problém a pretriedila si myšlienky, vyberie sa na predĺžený víkend do Larkmeadu.
Osud tej noci zvedie všetky tieto ženy dokopy. Do nového roka majú mnoho prianí, všetky však veria hlavne v to, že bude dobrý. Ten najlepší. Zvyšok recenzie je tu: http://kokina1.blogspot.sk/2016/05/bu...
Caitlin je naopak nešťastná, pretože okrem toho, že sa s ňou rozišiel priateľ Flynn a svojimi krutými výrokmi jej poriadne podkopal sebavedomie, prišla ešte aj o prácu. Aby zmenila svoj život od základov, rozhodla sa opustiť mesto a vrátiť sa do rodného kraja. Tam, v dome, v ktorom vyrastala, ju čaká ťažká skúška. Potrebuje pretriediť veci po nedávno zosnulej matke. A popri tom narazí na tajomstvo, ktoré jej matka celé roky zamlčala.
A nakoniec je tu Saffron, 38-ročná žena, ktorá svoj život zasvätila kariére. Darí sa jej v PR oblasti a má priateľa Maxa, s ktorým si výborne rozumie. Aby vyriešila navstávajúci problém a pretriedila si myšlienky, vyberie sa na predĺžený víkend do Larkmeadu.
Osud tej noci zvedie všetky tieto ženy dokopy. Do nového roka majú mnoho prianí, všetky však veria hlavne v to, že bude dobrý. Ten najlepší. Zvyšok recenzie je tu: http://kokina1.blogspot.sk/2016/05/bu...
October 9, 2016
This was an excellent book and I was gripped from the first page and tells the stories of three ladies who meet at new year they each have there own story to and it's interesting to see how each one copes with their life and how it changes. They all learn new things about themselves and can all of them move forward and enjoy their life or will they not be able to and will they find love or will there relationships they are happy in. Well worth reading as all Lucy diamond books are.
November 21, 2015
Took me a little while to get into this one but once I did I enjoyed it. Loved the female characters and the struggles each one faced - it was a good job they all made friends and we're there to support each other. Love a happy ending - or three!
January 27, 2021
Lucy Diamond is always a safe bet! I really enjoyed this story...and the irony of the title as we sit in Lockdown 😔 A lovely coming together of new friends, looking out for each other and a happy ending!
July 19, 2021
I read this book in one go. It was so incredibly easy to follow, was entirely believable and easy to escape into.
I loved following the three main characters, their lives and journeys. There were elements of all three of them that I really connected with.
The book has me engaged from the very beginning and was uplifting, with a great ending. Perfectly wrapped up, all neat and tidy.
I loved following the three main characters, their lives and journeys. There were elements of all three of them that I really connected with.
The book has me engaged from the very beginning and was uplifting, with a great ending. Perfectly wrapped up, all neat and tidy.
March 20, 2024
Näistä Lucy Diamondin kirjoista tulee aina niin hyvälle tuulelle. Aitoja, elämänmakuisia tarinoita, joissa kuitenkin on aina onnellinen loppu. Mukavan kevyttä viihdettä tarjosi tämäkin, vaikka ei noussutkaan aivan omaksi suosikikseni Diamondin kirjoista.
February 8, 2015
This is about a year where three incredibly strong leading ladies, all take control of their lives and start to take chances, to open up fantastic opportunities for themselves.
Gemma and Spencer are holding a New Years Eve party, and Spencer has extended invites to everyone. Saffron and Caitlin are also guests at the party and all bond over cocktails.
Gemma is a stay at home mum, to daughter Darcey and son Will, and is upset when she hears Will tell a friend that she is "just a mum". Gemma vows to make this the year where becomes more than a mum.
Caitlin is back in the village of Larkmont, after her mum's death, and is dealing with her cottage. She is grieving, and also just broken up with boyfriend Flynn. She decides she wants to have a new man for the year!
Saffron is renting the cottage next to Gemma and when the electricity fails, gets invited in to the party. Saffron does PR for company in London, and has a secret she is just getting used to herself.
Over the course of the next few months all three ladies will face various trials, tribulations and of course successes, in private and personal lives. The way they all deal with everything is brilliant to see.
This is a lovely refreshing book, with the theme being take a chance, as you never know when you will have the opportunity again, with some great outcomes.
I loved this book and would happily recommend it. Lucy Diamond at her best!
Gemma and Spencer are holding a New Years Eve party, and Spencer has extended invites to everyone. Saffron and Caitlin are also guests at the party and all bond over cocktails.
Gemma is a stay at home mum, to daughter Darcey and son Will, and is upset when she hears Will tell a friend that she is "just a mum". Gemma vows to make this the year where becomes more than a mum.
Caitlin is back in the village of Larkmont, after her mum's death, and is dealing with her cottage. She is grieving, and also just broken up with boyfriend Flynn. She decides she wants to have a new man for the year!
Saffron is renting the cottage next to Gemma and when the electricity fails, gets invited in to the party. Saffron does PR for company in London, and has a secret she is just getting used to herself.
Over the course of the next few months all three ladies will face various trials, tribulations and of course successes, in private and personal lives. The way they all deal with everything is brilliant to see.
This is a lovely refreshing book, with the theme being take a chance, as you never know when you will have the opportunity again, with some great outcomes.
I loved this book and would happily recommend it. Lucy Diamond at her best!
February 7, 2017
Wat een heerlijk boek om het jaar mee te beginnen. Heb gelijk meer boeken van haar besteld. Echt van die zoetsappige boeken. ik snap dat het geen hoogwaardige literatuur is en dan 5 sterren misschien iets teveel van het goede is, maar ik heb nou eenmaal erg van dit boek genoten. Ja het einde is een beetje voorspelbaar en cliché, maar Who cares. Lucy Diamond kan gewoon goed schrijven. Moeilijk om dit boek weg te leggen. De karakters zijn zeer goed uitgewerkt en het leest alsof je een film of serie kijkt. Ik hou er van. Hopen op nog heel veel fijne Lucy Diamond boeken!!
December 7, 2014
Another cracker from Lucy Diamond that had me gripped. There is such wonderful warmth in her writing; such a strong sense of the kindness of the human spirit. In spite of the struggles encountered by the novel's heroines it was a shining tale of positivity, bravery and - let's be honest here - the kick-ass brilliance of women! A truly gorgeous story.
October 14, 2018
I picked this book up by chance in my local library and I'm pleased I did, after reading a few reviews I knew I had picked a fab read.
The book kicks off at a house party, New Year's Eve and hiding out in the kitchen are three women who have just met for the first time.
Gemma the hostess of the party, happily married to Spencer living in their new house with their two children.
Caitlin an old school friend of Spencer's who has returned to the village to sort her mums house who sadly passed and to figure out what's next in her life.
Saffron a PR executive taking a break from life, staying in the cottage next door to Gemma, with no one to greet her and with no help when the electrics go out decides to pop next door to seek help.
The three women brought together by the party, bond over dodgy cocktails, fortune cookies and making New Year resolutions.
The three main characters were likeable from the start, the storyline too was very easy to get into and believable. We follow the three women throughout the year, each chapter switching to each character. I always enjoy books that are written this way, reading each characters point of view always gives you that extra insight into their mind.
Over the next few months Gemma, Saffron and Caitlin face change and they are forced to adapt to their new situations. Throughout the changes, struggles and opportunities arise for the three women and they are all made to rethink their choices in life.
I felt that the story was to teach us that change although sometimes can be daunting, it can always be a good thing and helps us to learn, be brave and take risks and to take the positive out of any situation. However much you plan things never go the way they should!
Throughout this review I know I haven't gone into depth about the storyline itself, with a few secrets and twists I would hate to give away any spoilers and ruin it for others. I would class this book as a feel good read, although the story hits some tough times for each character, the close friendship they form is really heart warming and made me think of my own support network and how grateful I am. Lovely read and I recommend!
The book kicks off at a house party, New Year's Eve and hiding out in the kitchen are three women who have just met for the first time.
Gemma the hostess of the party, happily married to Spencer living in their new house with their two children.
Caitlin an old school friend of Spencer's who has returned to the village to sort her mums house who sadly passed and to figure out what's next in her life.
Saffron a PR executive taking a break from life, staying in the cottage next door to Gemma, with no one to greet her and with no help when the electrics go out decides to pop next door to seek help.
The three women brought together by the party, bond over dodgy cocktails, fortune cookies and making New Year resolutions.
The three main characters were likeable from the start, the storyline too was very easy to get into and believable. We follow the three women throughout the year, each chapter switching to each character. I always enjoy books that are written this way, reading each characters point of view always gives you that extra insight into their mind.
Over the next few months Gemma, Saffron and Caitlin face change and they are forced to adapt to their new situations. Throughout the changes, struggles and opportunities arise for the three women and they are all made to rethink their choices in life.
I felt that the story was to teach us that change although sometimes can be daunting, it can always be a good thing and helps us to learn, be brave and take risks and to take the positive out of any situation. However much you plan things never go the way they should!
Throughout this review I know I haven't gone into depth about the storyline itself, with a few secrets and twists I would hate to give away any spoilers and ruin it for others. I would class this book as a feel good read, although the story hits some tough times for each character, the close friendship they form is really heart warming and made me think of my own support network and how grateful I am. Lovely read and I recommend!
February 9, 2023
This is the first time I have ever listened to an audio book. I really enjoyed it! The characters were so easy to love and the storyline made it easy to follow along with.
November 25, 2024
En bra feel-good med sympatiska karaktärer och handling. Lite sockersöt stundvis och förutsägbar dock.
February 20, 2015
This is chick-lit and feel-good at its best! A gorgeous story about three women, who randomly meet at a New Year's party, and how their friendship becomes so dear to them. I definitely enjoyed this book mostly because of its humour; I found myself smiling - even grinning - at it a couple of times, because it's just so spot on on the subject of being a modern woman: her relations, her love-life, children and career.
The three women - Gemma, Caitlin and Saffron - have very different schedules and different dilemmas in their life. However, they join together and help each other whether it's familytrouble or business.
As said, I laughed quite often at this amazing book by Lucy Diamond. I even shed a few tears (which is just awkward in public transportation). I would definitely recommend this book to you if you like chick-lit, feel-good, humours books and women in all their normality.
There was something about New Year's Eve that always brought her up a little short - that taking-stock moment when life seemed to hinge between two planes, past and future, and you were forced to examine exactly where you were.
The three women - Gemma, Caitlin and Saffron - have very different schedules and different dilemmas in their life. However, they join together and help each other whether it's familytrouble or business.
As said, I laughed quite often at this amazing book by Lucy Diamond. I even shed a few tears (which is just awkward in public transportation). I would definitely recommend this book to you if you like chick-lit, feel-good, humours books and women in all their normality.
February 4, 2017
There's something about reading UK chick lit that makes me feel as if it's not as low brow as US chick lit. This was pretty good, although one quibble; this took place in a period of about four months, as opposed to a year. I had no idea that everything that happened took place in such a short time span until it was noted at the very end. So perhaps the title should have been "Taking Chances From January to April!"
March 14, 2015
http://iheart-chicklit.blogspot.com/2...
A fabulous story about taking chances (obviously!) and a massive leap of faith. If you're looking for something funny, inspirational and feel-good, then treat yourself to Lucy Diamond's new one!
A fabulous story about taking chances (obviously!) and a massive leap of faith. If you're looking for something funny, inspirational and feel-good, then treat yourself to Lucy Diamond's new one!
January 26, 2015
Review to follow
January 5, 2018
Another brilliant and enjoyable book from Lucy Diamond. I always thoroughly enjoy her stories. Great characters and great story plots.
May 11, 2016
it started out a bit slow but once it got going it was a really good book. the characters were likeable and story realistic with hint of a cheesy ending - nothing not to like
January 26, 2021
The thing that I liked most about this book was that all three women were going through their own personal struggles, and not all of them revolved around men. There is more to life than romantic relationships, and most chicklit falls into the trap of placing romance on a pedestal above all else. In fact, isn't chicklit commonly characterised by its soppy, fluffy romance (and everything in between)? Wrong.
Chicklit is characterised by having a female protagonist(s) and the issues they face. Be that how they deal with a hectic work life balance, traumatic issues, romantic/platonic/familial relationships, religion etc. Have you been giving chicklit a bad rep this whole time? Yeah, I've been guilty of doing so too. I digress.
I enjoyed how these three didn't know each other at first, but their storylines intertwined and the ended up supporting each other as best they could. This book does a good job of making you feel emotionally invested in all the characters. I'd say Gemma's was the most compelling. She's turning from a stay at home mum to a working mum, after her husband (the ew breadwinner) has a work accident and concussion that makes him 1) redundant 2) treat his family horribly 3) devoid of all empathy and kindness. Seriously, poor Gemma. She's managing a terrible husband, rowdy teenage kids, an alcoholic mother with commitment issues, and self esteem problems. Ouch.
Saffron's a high flying PR working in London woo, sounds good! Nope, she's got issues at work with crazy clients, at home with a very jealous, self centred sister that's trying desperately hard to get pregnant, and then her latest squeeze shacks her up and doesn't seem to want anything to do with the baby.
Caitlin's mother has just passed away and she's struggling to comes to terms with it, her (very obviously) abusive ex is terrible, she's fallen for someone who's already committed to someone else and she's just found out she's adopted.
My main critique is that Spencer was a dick to Gemma and downright emotionally abusive. I suppose I was supposed to sympathise with what he had gone through and make excuses for him, but he didn't even show remorse until the last moment, so I don't have any sympathy at all for him. Perhaps if Diamond had shown us more of Spencer and Gemma before the accident, it wouldn't be so difficult to believe their resolution. I also didn't really like how the three women ended up with men in their lives (see above rant) but hey, at least they weren't the focus of their stories. Mostly.
Tldc, good book, explores lots of familial and platonic relationship issues.
Chicklit is characterised by having a female protagonist(s) and the issues they face. Be that how they deal with a hectic work life balance, traumatic issues, romantic/platonic/familial relationships, religion etc. Have you been giving chicklit a bad rep this whole time? Yeah, I've been guilty of doing so too. I digress.
I enjoyed how these three didn't know each other at first, but their storylines intertwined and the ended up supporting each other as best they could. This book does a good job of making you feel emotionally invested in all the characters. I'd say Gemma's was the most compelling. She's turning from a stay at home mum to a working mum, after her husband (the ew breadwinner) has a work accident and concussion that makes him 1) redundant 2) treat his family horribly 3) devoid of all empathy and kindness. Seriously, poor Gemma. She's managing a terrible husband, rowdy teenage kids, an alcoholic mother with commitment issues, and self esteem problems. Ouch.
Saffron's a high flying PR working in London woo, sounds good! Nope, she's got issues at work with crazy clients, at home with a very jealous, self centred sister that's trying desperately hard to get pregnant, and then her latest squeeze shacks her up and doesn't seem to want anything to do with the baby.
Caitlin's mother has just passed away and she's struggling to comes to terms with it, her (very obviously) abusive ex is terrible, she's fallen for someone who's already committed to someone else and she's just found out she's adopted.
My main critique is that Spencer was a dick to Gemma and downright emotionally abusive. I suppose I was supposed to sympathise with what he had gone through and make excuses for him, but he didn't even show remorse until the last moment, so I don't have any sympathy at all for him. Perhaps if Diamond had shown us more of Spencer and Gemma before the accident, it wouldn't be so difficult to believe their resolution. I also didn't really like how the three women ended up with men in their lives (see above rant) but hey, at least they weren't the focus of their stories. Mostly.
Tldc, good book, explores lots of familial and platonic relationship issues.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 12, 2020
I listened to this Lucy Diamond book read by Antonia Beamish and loved it.
Larkmead is such a charming and delightfully idyllic Suffolk village with house names such as The Granary, a pub called The Partridge and warm, funny, real characters.
The book follows Gemma, Caitlin and Saffron who meet unexpectedly at the New Year's Eve party Gemma and her husband Spencer are holding. They live in the village with their two children and Caitlin is only back to clear out her recently deceased mother's house whilst Saffron is escaping London, although really she is trying to escape making a tough decision.
The three become the best of friends as they navigate all sorts of stormy events in their personal lives. There is a lot of sewing, emailing, cake-eating, hand-wringing and romance in a book where even the worst scenarios somehow have a happy ending and the reader can relax, knowing that all will be well in the end.
It is light, bright, endearing and uplifting, the way in which the three women help each other come to terms with all manner of unexpected developments.
Each woman is different but entirely loveable and it is the sort of book that has you cheering on from the sidelines, daring them to take risks, have faith, be bold and believe in themselves. It is the sort of read that leaves me wishing I could visit the place and meet the characters, from very annoying minor celebrity Bunty, to Spencer stuck at home, Harry doing the right thing, Caitlin defacing an ex's canvas portrait and Saffron tackling tricky sister Eloise.
I almost had tears in my eyes as I listened to Gemma's letter to Spencer, and as the book comes to a close I felt good about life and how things can work out for the best.
I really enjoy Lucy Diamond books and the narration is superb. Take a trip to Larkmead yourself and fall in love against a backdrop of English countryside and feel-good friendships.
Well done all round to author and narrator!
Larkmead is such a charming and delightfully idyllic Suffolk village with house names such as The Granary, a pub called The Partridge and warm, funny, real characters.
The book follows Gemma, Caitlin and Saffron who meet unexpectedly at the New Year's Eve party Gemma and her husband Spencer are holding. They live in the village with their two children and Caitlin is only back to clear out her recently deceased mother's house whilst Saffron is escaping London, although really she is trying to escape making a tough decision.
The three become the best of friends as they navigate all sorts of stormy events in their personal lives. There is a lot of sewing, emailing, cake-eating, hand-wringing and romance in a book where even the worst scenarios somehow have a happy ending and the reader can relax, knowing that all will be well in the end.
It is light, bright, endearing and uplifting, the way in which the three women help each other come to terms with all manner of unexpected developments.
Each woman is different but entirely loveable and it is the sort of book that has you cheering on from the sidelines, daring them to take risks, have faith, be bold and believe in themselves. It is the sort of read that leaves me wishing I could visit the place and meet the characters, from very annoying minor celebrity Bunty, to Spencer stuck at home, Harry doing the right thing, Caitlin defacing an ex's canvas portrait and Saffron tackling tricky sister Eloise.
I almost had tears in my eyes as I listened to Gemma's letter to Spencer, and as the book comes to a close I felt good about life and how things can work out for the best.
I really enjoy Lucy Diamond books and the narration is superb. Take a trip to Larkmead yourself and fall in love against a backdrop of English countryside and feel-good friendships.
Well done all round to author and narrator!
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