Just One Look At You: There is nothing like a Jill Mansell book to make the world feel better

by Jill Mansell

Venice. Moonlight on the canals. A luxury cruise. The perfect setting for romance. And for long-kept secrets to come out.

Disa has come to Venice to meet someone. A few weeks ago, she didn't know that Molly existed. Now, she has a decision to make that could change the younger woman's life.

Jamie can't help it that women always fall for him rather than his kind, generous mate Milo. One of them got the looks, and the other didn't. But what if Jamie gets the girl Jamie wants for himself? It's never happened before. And Jamie has no idea how to handle it.

Kayla's come on holiday with a friend. The last person she expects to run into is her ex-husband Guy - and his glamorous new girlfriend. She'd never be tempted back to the man who let her down - would she? Under the Venetian sun, good sense can go out of the porthole . . .

A delicious, satisfying new romantic read from Jill Mansell - the Queen of Feelgood Fiction.

Genres: Fiction

400 pages, Hardcover

Expected publication January 29, 2026

About the author

Jill Mansell lives with her partner and children in Bristol, and writes full time. Actually that’s not true; she watches TV, eats fruit gums, admires the rugby players training in the sports field behind her house, and spends hours on the internet marvelling at how many other writers have blogs. Only when she’s completely run out of displacement activities does she write.

Jill Mansell's books have sold over ten million copies and her titles include: Making your Mind up, Fast Friends, Good at Games, Sheer Mischief and Solo, among many others.

Reviews

[Lydia Bailey · Rating 2 out of 5]

I struggled with this one & although I enjoyed the settings and a handful of the main characters I found some of the other characters to be based on pretty dated stereotypes who also seemed a little superfluous to the storyline. I found Leon’s story very hard & the book wasn’t at all the escapist one depicted in the blurb which tells us to expect ‘sunshine in every line’. The last couple of this author’s books have featured terminal illnesses & it seems a surprising subject to cover in the light romance genre & has put me off reading more to be honest. I did enjoy how Fen & Jamie’s characters evolved but overall this one wasn’t for me. 2.5 *

Thank you to Net Galley for the ARC in return for full and honest review.

[Síle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Jill Mansell and Headline for giving me access to this book in exchange for an honest review.

My first Jill Mansell novel, and sweet divine, what a lovely introduction it was. There’s an ease to her writing that feels like slipping into a warm kitchen on a rainy afternoon. No fuss, no noise, just gentle comfort pulling you in. The characters arrive quietly, never overwhelming, giving you time to get to know each of them in your own rhythm. It’s the kind of storytelling that trusts you to settle in and enjoy the ride.

This book is wholesome in the truest sense. Soft edges, kind hearts, and just enough emotional depth to keep it real without dragging you down. I can finally see why Jill has the loyal following she does. Her worldbuilding feels lived in, her people feel familiar, and she knows how to blend sweetness with sincerity like it’s second nature.

A tender, heart-warming read that left me smiling like an eejit.

[Sharon · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a warm and entertaining read but why did no one warn me it was going to have me in tears! We meet a handful of characters who have all booked on the same cruise trip to Venice. They are all going for different reasons but they all become friends as the story moves on. Fen is invited on the cruise by her grandmother Disa, who has a secret motive for going to Venice. Jamie is a famous rugby place and is on holiday with his friend Leon. Hattie and Kayla, who are both divorced and single, have won the holiday in a competition. The storyline revolves around their lives both on the cruise and when they return home.

It's a lovely read, the characters are so likeable and the locations are just wonderful. It does have a big trigger topic of cancer, and there's no warning of this, so if you would rather not read about it then perhaps this isn't the book for you. I have to admit I wasn't expecting it, but the topic was dealt with sensitively. I did find myself having a little cry at times throughout the book though. As normal with this author, the storyline was very well written and apart from the sad bits it was a delight to read.

[Catherine Tempany · Rating 3 out of 5]

This started off really strong - I loved the Venice setting and the characters, who are all very unique. I enjoyed the second half less - there is a tragic twist, after which I found the characters acted in increasingly unbelievable ways. I really wanted to love this book and am sure it will be devoured by Jill Mansell’s fans, but on this occasion I was left a bit cold.

[Helen Haythornthwaite · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5⭐️

I’ve been reading Jill’s novels for over 30 years now, and picking up one of her books is like meeting an old friend. As I opened it up and turned to the first page, I immediately felt at home, and settled down in anticipation of the story which lay ahead…

…and what a fabulous one it was! The first half of the story mainly takes place on a luxury boat in Venice. What an absolutely gorgeous setting this is! I adored the descriptions of Venice, the places seen on tours, the bars and restaurants which really brought this city to life for me.

A group of strangers meet on this week-long cruise, not realising that their lives will be entwined for years to come. There’s Fen who has been treated to this holiday by her grandmother, who has an ulterior motive for going to Venice. We also meet Jamie, a famous celebrity ex-rugby player, and his best friend, Leon. Best friends, and fellow divorcees, Hattie and Kayla; and Hattie’s ex-husband and his current partner.

It’s a brilliant, eclectic mix of characters, and I loved the author’s wit and humour as she introduces them to us, and the antics they get up to. Love is definitely in the air too, and sparks fly as initial attractions develop into something much stronger.

Without wanting to give too much away, the mood suddenly changes in the second half as there’s some devastating news. I’m just glad I had a box of tissues next to me, as I went through a lot during the remainder of the story.

It’s a story of the deepest love which you can find at any age, and at any time. It shows how beautiful love can be and how painful; how it can inspire feelings of hope and also those of guilt; and ultimately how selfless love can be if you want the best for those you love.

It’s a story which touched my heart, broke it in two and finally put it back together. I was glad to see that in this author’s inimitable way, she sprinkles lighter moments within the narrative which always bring a smile. 🫶🏻


With many thanks to the publisher for sending me a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

[Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

January would not be January without a new Jill Mansell book. I've looked back through my blog and I've reviewed twelve of her novels on Random Things. In total, she's written thirty-seven books since 1991, and I am more than certain that I've read them all. Whilst I may be more well know for my love of crime fiction; Jill Mansell is and has always been one of my all time favourite authors.

I used to review for the Daily Express and in one of those reviews I called her 'the Queen of feelgood romance' ... that quote is still used on her books and I am chuffed!

So back to her latest; Just One Look At You. It is utterly captivating; the Venice setting is sublime and the characters are, as always, perfectly formed. I am especially fond of Disa; a glamorous, beautifully dressed older woman - I think I'd like to be Disa!

Disa and her granddaughter Fen are taking a five star river cruise in Venice. It's Disa's treat and Fen is delighted to accept. However, Disa has her own reason for visiting Venice. She recently discovered something shocking about her late husband, and this has led her to Venice. She is apprehensive about what she may discover, but determined to find out more.

Meanwhile; handsome rugby star Jamie and his lifelong best friend Leon are also on board. Jamie has a speaking gig and Leon is along for the ride. Everyone always falls in love with Jamie, but Leon adores him too and doesn't really mind. Things are a little different in Venice when it is Leon who attracts the girl, and Jamie is too much of a good friend to try to but in.

This is a wonderful escape, perfect for these dreary grey January days. It is not all hearts and flowers though, there are some very emotional scenes, some that brought a huge lump to my throat.

This is a tender, graceful, perfectly created novel of love, family, secrets, grief and healing. It is perfect and is Jill Mansell at her very very best. Highly recommended.

[Rachel Gilbey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jill Mansell what on earth have you done to me with this latest book. Starting out like a nice gentle story set on a Venice river cruise that sounded divine, with a big cast of characters to get to know, it deceives you into thinking this is how it will be.

The next thing I know, my heart is being torn apart, and put together again, and torn apart, I'm on the verge of tears multiple times in the book, and there is ultimately a heartwarming and uplifting finale.

I just know that when I feel that strong a connection to some of the characters, and believe in their story that much, that the author has done a fantastic job writing the book, which is definitely the case in this instance.

There is a whole multitude of storylines to get involved in, some involving lost loves, old betrayals, some involving love at first sight, and ever present is Jamie, an ex pro rugby player and now general sports personality, who is so key to everything.

I loved all of the various characters, but especially Fen, Leon and Jamie who are definitely the main characters of this book. I was also interested in Hattie's story, and loved Disa too. These are well rounded characters, with development and big story arcs that are a delight to read.

The sections set in Venice, spoke to my love of armchair travel and reminded me of my own brief visit to the city. I loved the descriptions of some of the tourist attractions, and felt as though I was there alongside the characters.

This is a truly special story from this always talented author and it was a brilliant way to kick of my 2026 reading, as it was the first book I have read in this new year.

Just wonderful.

Thank you Headline and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily

[Emma Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

💚 Blurb-
Fen can't believe her luck. A luxury holiday with her beloved grandmother Disa - what could be more delightful? It doesn't cross her mind that she might fall in love. Or that love can bring complications . . .
Jamie can't help it that women always fall for him, rather than for his kind-hearted friend Leon. Nor that only one of them got the looks (that would be Jamie). But how will he feel if the girl he's drawn to only has eyes for Leon?
Disa has a secret. A few weeks ago, an old letter in a file revealed a shocking truth about her late husband. She's come to Venice to find out more.
There's news on the way that will reverberate through all their lives, as Jill Mansell's joyful, heartbreaking new novel takes readers on a roller coaster ride of emotion - and makes us believe in love again.
🩷 Review -
This was such an enjoyable an enjoyable and heartwarming read. I have enjoyed other books by the author and Just One Look At You certainly didn't disappoint. From the very first page I was hooked and I kept reading until the end as I wanted to know what happened. The author's writing style is brilliant and the story telling was flawless. I highly recommend it and I look forward to reading more by the author.
💝 Thank you to Random Things Tours, the author and publisher for my arc ebook copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

[Lynda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Even a thriller and crime reader like me needs the occasional decompression read and this was just perfect. I read it sitting drinking a coffee and eating cake on a cruise ship! Ok I wasn’t cruising around Venice but it was close enough. Set mainly in Venice where Fen and her grandmother Disa are cruising around the Venetian islands on a luxury cruise, alongside a large group of other named characters. I was concerned about keeping up with all the characters but it wasn’t an issue as they all had an identifiable voice.

Briefly, Disa has an ulterior motive for taking this cruise. Just a few weeks earlier she found a letter in amongst her late husbands belongings and she has come to Venice to find out more about this long hidden secret. Meanwhile Fen has fallen for a boy she met at the airport and he is also on the cruise with his mate.

Although the many characters had their own stories they, by and large, touched each others lives. Not unsurprisingly in such a romantic setting there were a number of budding romances but not everything was flowers and roses. It’s an emotional read and much more than just a love story, it’s moving, full of atmosphere and heartbreak and sadness amongst the joy and happiness. This author is now firmly on my radar.

[Vicki · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just One Look at You by Jill Mansell is exactly the kind of warm, uplifting read you’d expect from one of the queens of contemporary romance. The story sparkles with her trademark charm, full of likeable characters, quick wit and those satisfyingly tangled relationships that gradually unfold in all the right ways.

The setting feels comfortable, and the characters have enough depth to make their emotional journeys believable without weighing the story down. There’s plenty of humour sprinkled throughout, balanced by moments of genuine heart that make the friendships and romances feel earned. Jill Mansell’s pacing is breezy, making it an easy, enjoyable escape.

If there’s one drawback, it’s that some plot developments were sign posted early in the book, but honestly, that’s part of the comfort. I read a Jill Mansell novel for warmth, not whiplash twists, and this book delivers exactly that.

Overall, Just One Look at You is charming, comforting, and delightfully engaging - a feelgood story (with a few tears- no spoilers!) perfect for fans of lighthearted romance. With huge thanks to NetGalley for an early copy.

[Agi · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is true that there is nothing better than a Jill Mansell book when you want to start to feel better - her stories are uplifting, even if the road to happy end is often bumpy and filled with challenges. It's real life in her stories, often unfair, but anyway they are full of warmth and hopefulness. And it was the same with "Just One Look at You".
This time however I didn't buy this book so completely. The outcome could be seen pages before the end, the situations happened so unbelievably conveniently and it was hard for me to get into this fairy world. Sure, it broke my heart, but on the other hand you could be sure that, after some ups and downs the characters will find to each other.
Nevertheless, I read Jill Mansell`s books for comfort and not complicated twists.
"Just One Look at You" is filled with the author's trademark comforting writing style, humour and beautiful setting. It introduces us to plenty of characters that are well enough developed and I felt immediately involved in their lives. This book gives you all: romance, broken hearts, second chances, forgiveness and much, much more.

[Sara Oxton · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a five-star read that will wring every emotion out of you and still leave you feeling whole and like you have just had a massive hug. I loved this story, maybe it was me and my emotional state at the moment, but this story had me sobbing so hard, and yet I felt lighter for it, as the story wraps you like a huge hug and had me checking out trips to Venice and trying to persuade my hubby that a luxury rive cruise in Venice would be the ideal gift for our 20th wedding anniversary. I have been reading Jill Mansell for years, and love how you always know you are going to get a great story, but I don’t know somehow this one just felt elevated to the next level, the characters are all so well written, you care about each and every one, even when it looks like they are making a mistake, and Disa was just someone I wanted to have me take her under her wing and show me how to dress like a grown up, you can just picture her so well. This is not a story to be missed and will be one I will be telling everyone to pick up, as I am sure it will be the story of the year for so many like me.

[Karen Kingston · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to Anne of Random Things Tours and Headline Books for the opportunity to join another blog tour for one of my go to authors, Jill Mansell. Her latest book, Just One Look at You is published in hardback and ebook on Jan 29 2026.

This book was a book I couldn’t put down and I stayed up so much later than normal on a work night because I needed to know what happened next to Fen. This is an emotional rollercoaster story that will have you smiling one minute and sobbing quietly a few pages later.

Jill’s book also explores how different relationships evolve and I love how it is multigenerational so appeals to a wide range of readers. It also explores how difficult it must be for anyone deemed to be a celebrity, who then can’t wander round locally or whilst on holiday without being stopped for an autograph and/or a selfie.

A beautifully emotional read full of excellent characters, Scotch eggs, potatoes, a kind-hearted Leon and the city of Venice. Happy to recommend this five star book.

[Katie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just One Look at You is a warm and entertaining read, and the first I have read of Jill Mansell.

One thing to know, is that while the story has a light feel and tone, there’s a fairly heavy second act event. I wasn’t expecting it and had to put this one down until I was in the right headspace.

Having said this, this plot point is key to the story and the development of characters and relationships, and adds to the overall depth of the story. The story itself moves quite quickly, and once I dove back in, I found it picked up and was overall a warm and heartfelt read. I loved the friendships at the centre of the story. There’s quite a varied and entertaining cast of characters, and k thoroughly enjoyed the way their story arcs interplayed, their stories set in motion through their decision to take a Venetian cruise.

A great read for fans of Mansell’s, and anyone looking for an emotional, heartfelt, and warm destination romance.

Thank you to the publisher for an advance copy of this book. Opinions expressed are my own.

[Books By Your Bedside · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to NetGalley and Headline Review for the advanced copy of this title in return for an honest review.

It wouldn't be a New Year without a brand new Jill Mansell book to curl up with.

We have a map!

There is absolutely nothing wrong with a happily-ever-after type rom-com, in fact they're one of my favourite genres to read so this is in no way a negative reflection on them. But Jill's romances always have more flesh to them, they're not just about romance, they're about humanity and community and belonging. There's a story to enjoy but also to challenge.

I was worried that I wouldn't keep up with all the characters because we're introduced to quite a number of them in a short amount of time and I am rubbish at names, but seriously after reading each character's first chapter, it was really easy to keep up. They all had their own personalities and were interesting to read individually and together.

It's not a hugely long book but it is longer than some of the books I've been reading recently, but I read this quicker than some of the short books. It's so easy to read I just zoomed through it. I started it one evening and it even kept me from my bed - and it's a brave person who keeps me from my bed. I then picked it up once I woke up and finished it in a couple of hours.

There's romance, adventure, love, humour, jealousy, secrets, second chances, friendship - old and new, sadness, happiness, grief, hope - it's just got everything and more.

I won't spoil it, obviously, but about half way through it takes a turn I wasn't expecting and boy did it wind me. So tenderly and sensitively done. It turned the story down a different road than I thought it was going down and gave us a different aspect of the characters.

I know I say this with every one of her books but this is definitely her best one yet.

[Annette · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book- it had everything, believable characters, a beautiful setting, romance and yes sadness and heartbreak too.
Fen and her grandmother, Disa, embark on on a Venice cruise, along with several other wonderful characters, including best friends Leon and Jamie, Kayla who has won the trip, accompanied by her friend Hattie and even the unexpected appearance of Hattie’s ex husband Guy and his new partner does not detract from their enjoyment.
When Disa reveals a secret to Fen, she is shocked but it is something that eventually enhances the holiday and brings their small family much happiness - it’s the real reason for Dias’s plan to go to Venice.
There is also a lot of romance with various characters falling in love under the beautiful Venetian skies- the main ones being Fen and Leon.
However the return home brings unbearable heartbreak for some of the main protagonists and of course those reading the novel- I definitely had to wipe a tear from my eye as the story progressed.
This was my first book by Jill Mansell but it certainly won’t be my last. I whizzed through it in a couple of days and would definitely recommend it to readers who enjoy real life romance with well rounded, beautifully drawn characters who almost feel like friends by the end of the book.
I really liked all of them, particularly Fen, Leon and Jamie. Guy and Hattie made me laugh which lightened some of the more difficult parts of the story. Kayla and her gondolier was also an inspired part of the plot.
This was a five star read for me and I’m sure it will be the same for you.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for my advance copy.

[Sara Oxton · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a five-star read that will wring every emotion out of you and still leave you feeling whole and like you have just had a massive hug. I loved this story, maybe it was me and my emotional state at the moment, but this story had me sobbing so hard, and yet I felt lighter for it, as the story wraps you like a huge hug and had me checking out trips to Venice and trying to persuade my hubby that a luxury rive cruise in Venice would be the ideal gift for our 20th wedding anniversary. I have been reading Jill Mansell for years, and love how you always know you are going to get a great story, but I don’t know somehow this one just felt elevated to the next level, the characters are all so well written, you care about each and every one, even when it looks like they are making a mistake, and Disa was just someone I wanted to have me take her under her wing and show me how to dress like a grown up, you can just picture her so well. This is not a story to be missed and will be one I will be telling everyone to pick up, as I am sure it will be the story of the year for so many like me.

[Mark · Rating 5 out of 5]

So here we have the 2nd only book ever to bring a tear or 8 to my eyes….

A really moving yet peppered with humour story about a group of characters who all find themselves on a boat for 7 days,moored in Venice,some of them have ulterior motives for being there,a couple there via chance and luck but all unknowingly about to have life changing friendships and relationships

I wont give any clue as to why it moved me so much but when you get to the part that did you will know why

The book follows the characters we have met as the holiday ends and ‘normal’ life resumes although it will never be normal for any of them again

Effortless reading enjoyment with a story hugging lots of mini stories that was impossible not to love and become involved with and part of and be affected by

I wont forget these people,their lives and the settings of this book,wonderful

[Kate Hardy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jill's books are always a joy - a multi-generational read with warmth, love, friendship and life changes.

The book's partly set in Venice (beautiful descriptions, which made me want to go back!). Fen agrees to accompany her grandmother Disa on a luxury break; she isn't looking for love, but it finds her! And romance is also in the air for other people they meet on board the ship. Add some family dramas with unexpected new family, a piece of real heartbreak (portrayed very well and had me in tears) and the most beautiful ending.

Thoroughly good read.

Thanks to Net Galley and the publishers for the opportunity to read and review this book.

[Christine Rennie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just One Look at You by Jill Mansell is the story of two friends, Leon and Jaimie who have grown up together. Jaimie is a successful rugby player who now is a successful media person, whist Leon is quietly wealthy and s normally overshadowed by the successful good looking Jaimie.
Until they go on a cruise to Venice, where Jaimie is doing a talk on the cruise for free board and food. Fren has accompanied her grandmother and falls truly madly deeply in love with Leon and he with her.
This is unashamedly a love story with a sad ending and then a new beginning.
Very entertaining.
Highly recommended

[Emily West · Rating 3 out of 5]

A decent read set in some stunning locations but I just didn’t connect with the book. I found the story too wordy, which I know feels like a weird thing to say, and I didn’t really care about any of the characters, I don’t think it was helped by the fact I had just read a book which I adored and felt an instant connection with the characters so this was always going to be a tough act to follow. There are loads of 4 and 5 star reviews, so maybe this just wasn’t the right time for me to have read this.

[Amanda C · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked the Venice setting of this one, I am planning a trip there later in the year and the writing has made me look forward to it even more! The story was emotional and I liked how all of the characters' lives were intertwined.

The only drawbacks for me were that the book did feel a little bit twee, and some of the thoughts/dialogue from the younger characters were unrealistic and prematurely aging. A 31 year old thinking 'Sod this for a game of soldiers' was my favourite.

Overall a nice story, and I would recommend it if you're into cosy romances.

[Kim]

This is a wonderful love story, filled with heartfelt emotions and charming characters. Fen feels incredibly lucky and excited to be going to Venice with her beloved grandmother, but little does she know that she might end up entangled in a complicated romance. The sprinkle of humor throughout the book makes it an enjoyable read. Overall, it is a delightful story to pass the time.
Jill Mansell consistently crafts warm and emotional tales, intricately weaving the lives of her characters.

[Yvonne · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’ll start by saying that I’ve read Jill Mansell’s books for as long as I can remember. I always think of them as nice, easy reads with a lot of characters, but once you’ve got them straight in your head, it feels like you’re part of the story! In this instance, none of the above happened. At 20%, I felt like I needed to restart as I hadn’t a clue what was going on, nor who anyone was. I plodded on and generally got the gist, however overall, I feel like this story was split into three. At times I felt characters appeared and I’d no idea who the heck they were. The sickness/death slap bang in the middle threw me, it was done and dusted within 11% and the letters from beyond just felt wrong. I’m maybe in the minority here, but it’s the first time I’ve finished a JM book and literally didn’t know how I felt. Certainly not a happy gooey finish which I think was intended, rather bittersweet I’m afraid.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to the publishers and Negalley for an advance copy of this book in exchange for a review.

It's been a while since I read a Jill Mansell book and this didn't disappoint. It had a bit of everything and I thoroughly enjoyed it - read it on the sleeper train to London when I was supposed to be sleeping!

[Lorraine Joad · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fantastic read right from the first page. The characters and the setting were magnificent along with a story examining relationships and family which made me happy and sad in equal measure. A truly wonderful journey through the pages.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC in return for an honest review.

[amanda · Rating 3 out of 5]

My mum and i spent years travelling to different towns to collect jill mansell novels in charity shops cause we had no money but always wanted more books to read and share with each other. And jill was always our favourite. I have been so severely attached to jill books for nearly 20 years and a new book was the highlight of my year. but these last few books.... its getting scary out here

[Judith Howe · Rating 5 out of 5]

I look forward to a new Jill Mansell book and this is a fast moving one, that is very engrossing and before you know it, your are half way through it. Emotional for one of the characters but nevertheless a beautifully written book. Highly recommend.

[Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautiful story about a couple who meet while on holiday in Venice. A small group of people connect when they find themselves on the same cruise ship and relationships are formed. Fen and Leon appear destined to be together forever but will they get their happy ever after…?

[Pamela · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a beautiful and poignant book. I always love a romance set in Venice, but this one is extra special with several couples and a bittersweet twist. Have a box of tissues handy.