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About Last Night...
The immensely funny and heartwarming number one bestseller, tells the story of a woman who gets a second chance in life - but will she have the courage to take it? Molly has traded London for a dream home in the country - except it was her husband's dream, not hers. And David is, well, rather dead now. So when a distant relative leaves her a London townhouse, Molly is ready to quit 'The Good Life' and return to her good life. But there's a rather tall, handsome problem - a man who's already living in Molly's new house. And when a face from her past reappears, she's no longer quite sure where she belongs. Do any of the men in Molly's life have honourable intentions? Is she ready to ditch muddy wellies for high heels? Or is she saying goodbye to the delights of country life too soon? Praise for Catherine Alliott 'Irresistible' Daily Mail 'Compulsively readable' The Times 'Possibly my favourite writer' Marian Keyes
400 pages, Paperback
First published March 3, 2017
About the author
Catherine Alliott
47 books560 followersCatherine has sold over 3 million bestselling novels worldwide and is translated into eighteen languages.
The first of these novels Catherine started under the desk when she worked as an advertising copywriter. She was duly fired. With time on her hands, she persevered with the novels, which happily flourished.
In the early days she produced a baby with each book - but after three - stuck to the writing as it was less painful.
She writes with her favorite pen in note books, either in the garden or on a sofa.
Home is a rural spot on the Hertfordshire border, which she shares with her family and a menagerie of horses, cows, chickens, and dogs, which at the last count totaled eighty-seven beating hearts, including her husband. Some of her household have walk-on parts in her novels, but only the chickens would probably recognize themselves.
All her novels are published by Penguin Random House internationally, and by No Shooz Publishing in America and will be available in the US in the Fall of 2017.
The first of these novels Catherine started under the desk when she worked as an advertising copywriter. She was duly fired. With time on her hands, she persevered with the novels, which happily flourished.
In the early days she produced a baby with each book - but after three - stuck to the writing as it was less painful.
She writes with her favorite pen in note books, either in the garden or on a sofa.
Home is a rural spot on the Hertfordshire border, which she shares with her family and a menagerie of horses, cows, chickens, and dogs, which at the last count totaled eighty-seven beating hearts, including her husband. Some of her household have walk-on parts in her novels, but only the chickens would probably recognize themselves.
All her novels are published by Penguin Random House internationally, and by No Shooz Publishing in America and will be available in the US in the Fall of 2017.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 213 reviews
June 20, 2017
This is a light and entertaining read set in both a rural and urban environment, but how I wished that it had a little more depth to the story. Acting on David's dream, Molly moved to a farm, but David has died, leaving Molly in a precarious situation. As a widow and single mother, she now has to raise their children, Lucy, Minna and Nico, on her own. On top of all that, she has the responsibilities of running the farm. Her dire financial straits lead to her coming up with a variety of ways of raising money whilst trying desperately to keep her creditors at bay. Matters look doomed until, out of the blue, an inheritance comes to light. With regards to Molly's personal life, there are complications in the shape of three men. Will Molly succeed in forging a new life for herself? The characterisation in the novel is a trifle on the weak side, and her children leave plenty to be desired. However, there is plenty of humour and comic touches. I would recommend this book to those looking for a pure light entertainment and escapist fare. Many thanks to Penguin Michael Joseph for an ARC.
July 18, 2026
Five years earlier Molly and David had moved from London to the country and bought a property.
Then David died and Molly was left with the farm full of animals and trying to parent her three older children, Lucy, Minna and Nico, who are largely spoiled and especially Nico. Molly tries to supplement the financial problems with money making schemes hoping to keep creditors at bay.
My sympathies were with Molly initially but then the reader learns why they left London and moved. This was because Molly had an affair with her good friend’s husband. All I can say is with friends like that who needs enemies?
When everything looks lost with creditors clamouring for payment , Molly learns she has inherited a property from David’s Uncle Cuthbert. When she goes to view the place there is someone already living there. Molly wonders why the property was not left to Cuthbert’s long time lover, since he has already been living in the house. She also meets the handsome Felix.
Over the book Molly becomes more dithery and stupid in her behaviour, making rash decisions and mistakes. What is perhaps meant to be amusing becomes ridiculous. Only the fact this was the last library book I had and couldn’t access the library, stopped me from giving up. However, while it didn’t appeal to me, there may be others who will love love it.
Two stars the best I can do.
Then David died and Molly was left with the farm full of animals and trying to parent her three older children, Lucy, Minna and Nico, who are largely spoiled and especially Nico. Molly tries to supplement the financial problems with money making schemes hoping to keep creditors at bay.
My sympathies were with Molly initially but then the reader learns why they left London and moved. This was because Molly had an affair with her good friend’s husband. All I can say is with friends like that who needs enemies?
When everything looks lost with creditors clamouring for payment , Molly learns she has inherited a property from David’s Uncle Cuthbert. When she goes to view the place there is someone already living there. Molly wonders why the property was not left to Cuthbert’s long time lover, since he has already been living in the house. She also meets the handsome Felix.
Over the book Molly becomes more dithery and stupid in her behaviour, making rash decisions and mistakes. What is perhaps meant to be amusing becomes ridiculous. Only the fact this was the last library book I had and couldn’t access the library, stopped me from giving up. However, while it didn’t appeal to me, there may be others who will love love it.
Two stars the best I can do.
April 5, 2017
Five years ago Molly and David Faulkener and their three children leave their life in London and move to the country to work on a farm. Not long after moving David died. Molly decides to stay on at the farm but she is constantly short of money and being chased by her creditors.
This is a nicely written, funny story. It a few chapters for the story to start but once it does it's a decent read.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Penguin UK - Michael Joseph and the author Catherine Alliot for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is a nicely written, funny story. It a few chapters for the story to start but once it does it's a decent read.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Penguin UK - Michael Joseph and the author Catherine Alliot for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 13, 2017
Thank you to Netgalley, Penguin Uk Michael Joseph and Catherine Alliott for the opportunity to read this book for an honest review.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance reader copy of this book.
You can find my review on both Goodreads and Amazon. On goodreads.com/karenwhittard and on Amazon under k.e.whittard from publication date.
I just found this really hard to get into. I was gutted because this should have been a really fun read.
And first I felt her Molly her husband has died. Leaving her to raise their family on her own. Not only this but she also has to run the family farm by herself. A dream that was her husbands and not hers. But determined to make a go of things stays to keep it running instead of running home to London.
Then we realise the reasons they had to move in the first place and then Molly starts making even more silly mistakes. At the start of the book a completly strong and capable person turns into a blithering fool. It makes you wonder how she managed to survive on her own for so long.
I think this however will be a popular read because it's easy to read disputes the bits I didn't like. I think if your not looking for too much of a story and you don't expect any suspense this book will be fine for you.
Let me know what you think
Happy reading everyone
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance reader copy of this book.
You can find my review on both Goodreads and Amazon. On goodreads.com/karenwhittard and on Amazon under k.e.whittard from publication date.
I just found this really hard to get into. I was gutted because this should have been a really fun read.
And first I felt her Molly her husband has died. Leaving her to raise their family on her own. Not only this but she also has to run the family farm by herself. A dream that was her husbands and not hers. But determined to make a go of things stays to keep it running instead of running home to London.
Then we realise the reasons they had to move in the first place and then Molly starts making even more silly mistakes. At the start of the book a completly strong and capable person turns into a blithering fool. It makes you wonder how she managed to survive on her own for so long.
I think this however will be a popular read because it's easy to read disputes the bits I didn't like. I think if your not looking for too much of a story and you don't expect any suspense this book will be fine for you.
Let me know what you think
Happy reading everyone
May 2, 2017
3.5☆ Comical in some places
This was my first book by Catherine Alliott.
Molly and David and their 3 children Lucy, Minna and Nico move to Hertfordshire in search of a new life. One to escape the hustle and bustle.
They move into a small farm in Hertfordshire.
However tragedy strikes!
David tragically dies leaving Molly and her 3 children alone.
Molly was devastated and it was from that moment their dream would become her nightmare.
Raising 3 older children and looking after a small farm was never going to be easy.
But as the story progresses Molly is starting to become way over her head!
She comes up with ways to make money, like selling ladies underwear.
The bills start piling up and Molly is struggling to make ends meet.
Well that is until she discovers a very substantial inheritance that is left to her from a family member.
Her children certainly have opinions on how best she should spend the inheritance!
Finally Molly can turn her life around. But will she stay in rural Hertfordshire or move back to London?
Molly's children for me grated on me a little they were opinionated and often rude to their mother. Which shocked me.
Yes there was funny moments but I often wondered who was the parent and who was the child.
There were 3 potential love interests for Molly which made for an entertaining read.
I did enjoy this book and their was some laugh out loud moments. I love animals so the farm animals and the stories were comical.
But I felt the story was slow to get going and didn't really get a good flow to it. It seemed to drag a little bit.
I wasn't blown away by the characters. As I said before the children grated on me a little bit and Molly for me, her character had the potential to be really great..A strong independent Mother. But she just didn't get there.
Overall a good read. Would I recommend it... yes but I wasn't eager to read more.
I received this book from the Publisher in exchange for a honest and fair review via Netgalley.
This was my first book by Catherine Alliott.
Molly and David and their 3 children Lucy, Minna and Nico move to Hertfordshire in search of a new life. One to escape the hustle and bustle.
They move into a small farm in Hertfordshire.
However tragedy strikes!
David tragically dies leaving Molly and her 3 children alone.
Molly was devastated and it was from that moment their dream would become her nightmare.
Raising 3 older children and looking after a small farm was never going to be easy.
But as the story progresses Molly is starting to become way over her head!
She comes up with ways to make money, like selling ladies underwear.
The bills start piling up and Molly is struggling to make ends meet.
Well that is until she discovers a very substantial inheritance that is left to her from a family member.
Her children certainly have opinions on how best she should spend the inheritance!
Finally Molly can turn her life around. But will she stay in rural Hertfordshire or move back to London?
Molly's children for me grated on me a little they were opinionated and often rude to their mother. Which shocked me.
Yes there was funny moments but I often wondered who was the parent and who was the child.
There were 3 potential love interests for Molly which made for an entertaining read.
I did enjoy this book and their was some laugh out loud moments. I love animals so the farm animals and the stories were comical.
But I felt the story was slow to get going and didn't really get a good flow to it. It seemed to drag a little bit.
I wasn't blown away by the characters. As I said before the children grated on me a little bit and Molly for me, her character had the potential to be really great..A strong independent Mother. But she just didn't get there.
Overall a good read. Would I recommend it... yes but I wasn't eager to read more.
I received this book from the Publisher in exchange for a honest and fair review via Netgalley.
May 9, 2017
I didn't get very far in to be honest. I found it hard to involve myself in the story. It just didn't grab me enough to continue. Right from the start I found it long-winded and Molly's children were already annoying me!
January 14, 2020
2.5 rounding it up to 3. I’ve read this author’s books since her first one came out and have loved them all till this one. It just seemed silly in places and a little daft which is a shame as they’re usually a good read.
March 19, 2022
Šīs autores darbi ir mani romantiskās literatūras komforta stūrītis - zini, ko var sagaidīt un viss ir labi. Arī šajā darbā ir savi sarežģījumi, pārpratumi, sāpes un pagātnes nodarījumi, bet beigās jau atrodas mīlestība.
April 22, 2017
It had always been the long term plan, to eventually move out of London and live in the countryside. A few hens, a couple of goats, horses and at a push sheep. It sounded quite idyllic but what had always been a dream ended up being a nightmare. Not long after moving David tragically died leaving Molly to bring up their 3 children with the hardships of running a large small holding /small farm and constantly living on the edge of losing everything to the debt collectors. Life was tough. Well it was until Molly found out about the inheritance.
Oh poor Molly, living almost man free for what seems like a life time decides that the time has come to make a new start. After all this unexpected windfall could set them all up for a long, long time. I have to say that I wasn't keen on Molly's Spoiled children at first. They seemed very self centred, with everything being me. Me. ME! Molly, most of the time, being chastised by her offspring for situations that looked like something they weren't. Molly at times was more than gullible too but after saying that I cried with laughing. I read a book to be entertained and well this really did all that.
I really enjoyed the comparisons between the hustle and bustle of the City and the real life and death situations of the countryside. Loved how the families characters changed depending where they were. I much preferred the country side of them. There were also some real classic situations that had me laughing uncontrollably. I will never think of horse jumping again without having a vivid picture of this book in my mind. Just loved it. This is a story about regrets, trust and what is really important in life.
Molly's life was about to become complicated with three men, one from the past and two from the present but were any of them good enough to be her future?
Oh poor Molly, living almost man free for what seems like a life time decides that the time has come to make a new start. After all this unexpected windfall could set them all up for a long, long time. I have to say that I wasn't keen on Molly's Spoiled children at first. They seemed very self centred, with everything being me. Me. ME! Molly, most of the time, being chastised by her offspring for situations that looked like something they weren't. Molly at times was more than gullible too but after saying that I cried with laughing. I read a book to be entertained and well this really did all that.
I really enjoyed the comparisons between the hustle and bustle of the City and the real life and death situations of the countryside. Loved how the families characters changed depending where they were. I much preferred the country side of them. There were also some real classic situations that had me laughing uncontrollably. I will never think of horse jumping again without having a vivid picture of this book in my mind. Just loved it. This is a story about regrets, trust and what is really important in life.
Molly's life was about to become complicated with three men, one from the past and two from the present but were any of them good enough to be her future?
April 6, 2017
I thought the plot and range of characters were perfect for a good chick lit but felt that the author stepped over the line between humour and silliness. Molly's actions were often completely ridiculous and unbelievable which spoiled the book for me!
March 9, 2017
2.5
If I were reading this ten or so years ago, I'd have probably loved this, this is the kind of book that I'd have read in one go, couldn't put down and wouldn't have wanted to anyway. My tastes have changed since then and things that would not have bothered me in the slightest back then now leave me with a bad taste in my mouth and make any sympathy I should have felt for the characters disappear.
My main issue with About Last Night . . . was the main character Molly. At first I really felt for her, her husband died soon after they left the city with their family for a farm in the countryside, leaving her to bring up her children and keep the farm they'd moved to running even though it had never been her dream, only her husbands. It's a tough situation. Instead of fleeing back to London she decided to stay and make the best of the situation because it's what he would have wanted. Unfortunately we soon find out the circumstances that led up to their move and I lost all sympathy for Molly. Maybe I'm just a heartless, unfeeling bitch who doesn't understand. And then it gets worse. She becomes more annoying and makes really stupid decisions, she appears quite pathetic at times, and doesn't seem to have much going on in her brain and I often found myself wondering how the hell she'd managed to survive so long on her own. This is such a shame - you'd think she'd be more intelligent, more resourceful etc. given what she'd managed to achieve over the past five years.
I do see a lot of people enjoying this. I do think it could be a good summer read for those who enjoy this kind of book. There's a range of characters, it's quite lighthearted with a sprinkling of seriousness and real issues, second chances, and a touch of romance. It did give me a feel of other authors' works who I have enjoyed a lot in the past and although this one wasn't really for me, I'd be interested in picking up some of the author's other works.
If I were reading this ten or so years ago, I'd have probably loved this, this is the kind of book that I'd have read in one go, couldn't put down and wouldn't have wanted to anyway. My tastes have changed since then and things that would not have bothered me in the slightest back then now leave me with a bad taste in my mouth and make any sympathy I should have felt for the characters disappear.
My main issue with About Last Night . . . was the main character Molly. At first I really felt for her, her husband died soon after they left the city with their family for a farm in the countryside, leaving her to bring up her children and keep the farm they'd moved to running even though it had never been her dream, only her husbands. It's a tough situation. Instead of fleeing back to London she decided to stay and make the best of the situation because it's what he would have wanted. Unfortunately we soon find out the circumstances that led up to their move and I lost all sympathy for Molly. Maybe I'm just a heartless, unfeeling bitch who doesn't understand. And then it gets worse. She becomes more annoying and makes really stupid decisions, she appears quite pathetic at times, and doesn't seem to have much going on in her brain and I often found myself wondering how the hell she'd managed to survive so long on her own. This is such a shame - you'd think she'd be more intelligent, more resourceful etc. given what she'd managed to achieve over the past five years.
I do see a lot of people enjoying this. I do think it could be a good summer read for those who enjoy this kind of book. There's a range of characters, it's quite lighthearted with a sprinkling of seriousness and real issues, second chances, and a touch of romance. It did give me a feel of other authors' works who I have enjoyed a lot in the past and although this one wasn't really for me, I'd be interested in picking up some of the author's other works.
November 28, 2018
I had high hopes with this one, especially as my library had marked it as a ‘Best Seller’ and a hot read. But I’m afraid to say that the plot was as predictable as the next chick flick and you could see the ending a mile off.
What disappointed me first of all was how slow it was to get started. Alliott spends a lot of time in flashback as the narrator, Molly, explains how she has become a broke widower with three grown-up children, badly managing a farm. This and the flashback detailing the breakdown of her marriage was unnecessarily lengthy and did frustrate me with getting the plot moving.
The characters in this novel are the stereotypical good/bad ones and are easy to spot. I didn’t have much time for the London scenes in this novel and found Molly’s materialistic approach quite frustrating. She is quick to want to drop everything in the country, despite all the ties that keep her there, and frivolously attempts to try and alter herself to fit in with London living.
This isn’t really a comedic novel, if this is what you are hoping for. There are a few titters, but I mostly was frustrated by how Molly is presented to readers. So unorganised and flitting from one obvious dilemma to the next, the chaos was almost too chaotic! I also disliked the attention that Alliott kept giving to Molly and other characters smoking. It brought nothing to the plot and just made it feel a bit distasteful, in my opinion.
So, whilst it looks like I didn’t enjoy this book, for its many flaws, I did. It’s an easy read and whilst you can predict the closing, it’s pleasant to see how events unfold. Paddy was certainly my favourite character and my hero in the novel – he puts up with so much! In contrast, I felt like Molly’s children deserved a jolly good boot up the bottom: their actions towards their mother are quite infuriating.
I haven’t read any of Alliott’s novels so for a debut, this was a bit disappointing. I wouldn’t go out of my way to read more of hers but will if I have little choice! This is an easy read but there are far better chick flicks out there than this.
What disappointed me first of all was how slow it was to get started. Alliott spends a lot of time in flashback as the narrator, Molly, explains how she has become a broke widower with three grown-up children, badly managing a farm. This and the flashback detailing the breakdown of her marriage was unnecessarily lengthy and did frustrate me with getting the plot moving.
The characters in this novel are the stereotypical good/bad ones and are easy to spot. I didn’t have much time for the London scenes in this novel and found Molly’s materialistic approach quite frustrating. She is quick to want to drop everything in the country, despite all the ties that keep her there, and frivolously attempts to try and alter herself to fit in with London living.
This isn’t really a comedic novel, if this is what you are hoping for. There are a few titters, but I mostly was frustrated by how Molly is presented to readers. So unorganised and flitting from one obvious dilemma to the next, the chaos was almost too chaotic! I also disliked the attention that Alliott kept giving to Molly and other characters smoking. It brought nothing to the plot and just made it feel a bit distasteful, in my opinion.
So, whilst it looks like I didn’t enjoy this book, for its many flaws, I did. It’s an easy read and whilst you can predict the closing, it’s pleasant to see how events unfold. Paddy was certainly my favourite character and my hero in the novel – he puts up with so much! In contrast, I felt like Molly’s children deserved a jolly good boot up the bottom: their actions towards their mother are quite infuriating.
I haven’t read any of Alliott’s novels so for a debut, this was a bit disappointing. I wouldn’t go out of my way to read more of hers but will if I have little choice! This is an easy read but there are far better chick flicks out there than this.
March 1, 2017
I just found this terribly irritating, and it should have been a fun read. Molly, widowed and holding the family together by the skin of her teeth, comes into an inheritance and suddenly loses any self-worth, self-reliance or self-respect and dashes off to London to the arms of the inevitable cad. Cue hunky (rich, gorgeous) man to save the day. Grrr.
It will be a popular summer read despite all this, but it could have been so much better. Disappointing.
It will be a popular summer read despite all this, but it could have been so much better. Disappointing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 1, 2018
2.5 (ish).
I couldn't get into this and I think it is because I cannot relate to Catherine Alliott's world of Badminton Horse Trials and country living. I've really enjoyed One Day in May, and A Rural Affair was good fun, but this was silly and annoying. Because the protagonist Molly was silly and annoying, acting like a teenager fawning over a guy or two. Just couldn't take to it, sorry!
I couldn't get into this and I think it is because I cannot relate to Catherine Alliott's world of Badminton Horse Trials and country living. I've really enjoyed One Day in May, and A Rural Affair was good fun, but this was silly and annoying. Because the protagonist Molly was silly and annoying, acting like a teenager fawning over a guy or two. Just couldn't take to it, sorry!
June 2, 2017
About Last Night by Catherine Alliott is a contemporary romance and a really fun, light hearted read.
The action alternates between Ludlow (very near to where I live) and London. Catherine Alliott's descriptions were wonderful. I 'felt' the clean, fresh country air which contrasted with the noise, smells and hustle and bustle of London. One 'felt' freeing, the other stifling. I much preferred the Ludlow location.
The book had many humorous moments that kept me chortling. It was easy to empathise with many of the situations creating the humour, as the book was written in the first person. Grown up children, horrified at some of their mother's antics, had me in stitches!
Family and good friends are important. They contrasted sharply with some less than honest characters.
Animals are important in our lives. I loved their inclusion in the story and how they were viewed as an integral part of the family.
The small town, warm and welcoming feel of Ludlow was easy to recognise, having visited there many times. I really 'felt' included in the book.
About Last Night is a wonderful, light hearted read for anyone fancying a few hours of pure escapism.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
The action alternates between Ludlow (very near to where I live) and London. Catherine Alliott's descriptions were wonderful. I 'felt' the clean, fresh country air which contrasted with the noise, smells and hustle and bustle of London. One 'felt' freeing, the other stifling. I much preferred the Ludlow location.
The book had many humorous moments that kept me chortling. It was easy to empathise with many of the situations creating the humour, as the book was written in the first person. Grown up children, horrified at some of their mother's antics, had me in stitches!
Family and good friends are important. They contrasted sharply with some less than honest characters.
Animals are important in our lives. I loved their inclusion in the story and how they were viewed as an integral part of the family.
The small town, warm and welcoming feel of Ludlow was easy to recognise, having visited there many times. I really 'felt' included in the book.
About Last Night is a wonderful, light hearted read for anyone fancying a few hours of pure escapism.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
November 11, 2017
Catherine Alliott is one of my go-to authors. If I need to read something I know I will enjoy. I find Catherine's book like a loyal friend they never let me down.
In About Last Night we meet Molly, her husband has died leaving her with three kids and a dilapidated farm and a plethora of animals. When a relative leaves her a fancy townhouse, Molly's life path takes her on a road of adventure and self-discovery.
The book took me a little longer than usual. I did have a hard time connecting with the characters at first. I think because with Catherine's books I am usually in tears with laughter or cringing with ooh's and ahh's at the awkward moments. But with About Last Night I didn't have those moments, it wasn't a bad reading experience, it was just very different from what I anticipated.
The cover is very different from her others and I don't know if it would appeal to me if I didn't already know I loved the author. Usually, Catherine's book covers have the same sort of theme.
With a host of memorable characters, this is a book of self-discovery and learning that our past mistakes do not define us. I highly recommend you add it to your TBR pile along with Catherine's other titles.
In About Last Night we meet Molly, her husband has died leaving her with three kids and a dilapidated farm and a plethora of animals. When a relative leaves her a fancy townhouse, Molly's life path takes her on a road of adventure and self-discovery.
The book took me a little longer than usual. I did have a hard time connecting with the characters at first. I think because with Catherine's books I am usually in tears with laughter or cringing with ooh's and ahh's at the awkward moments. But with About Last Night I didn't have those moments, it wasn't a bad reading experience, it was just very different from what I anticipated.
The cover is very different from her others and I don't know if it would appeal to me if I didn't already know I loved the author. Usually, Catherine's book covers have the same sort of theme.
With a host of memorable characters, this is a book of self-discovery and learning that our past mistakes do not define us. I highly recommend you add it to your TBR pile along with Catherine's other titles.
April 26, 2017
View more reviews on my blog, rhiareads.
I received a free ebook of this novel from the publisher & netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I wasn't blown away by this. I read another of Catherine Alliott's books - NOT THAT KIND OF GIRL - several years ago and remembered quite enjoying it so I thought this would be similar. Either I've already grown out of this sort of fiction, or this isn't on par with the author's earlier works.
The writing is good but I found it hard to connect with - or like - any of the characters. All Molly's problems seem to have been brought on herself so I found it really hard to have any sympathy for her.
This might be a good read for fans of the chick-lit genre, or fans of this author, but it's not a winner for me.
I received a free ebook of this novel from the publisher & netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I wasn't blown away by this. I read another of Catherine Alliott's books - NOT THAT KIND OF GIRL - several years ago and remembered quite enjoying it so I thought this would be similar. Either I've already grown out of this sort of fiction, or this isn't on par with the author's earlier works.
The writing is good but I found it hard to connect with - or like - any of the characters. All Molly's problems seem to have been brought on herself so I found it really hard to have any sympathy for her.
This might be a good read for fans of the chick-lit genre, or fans of this author, but it's not a winner for me.
February 22, 2017
It has been a while since I last read a Catherine Alliott, which is something I do need to rectify, as I do tend to enjoy her books. This latest release About Last Night was no exception.
There really are a lot of contrasts in this story, with it predominately being set in very rural Herefordshire, and the rest in London. Molly is unsure if she wants her life in Herefordshire anymore, she is sick of never having any money, being so remote, but she feels it was her fault that her husband died 5 years ago, and this was his rural dream.
Molly has three grown up children, Lucy, Minna and Nico, all of which have various thoughts on Molly's life and what she should do, especially when she happens into a very surprise inheritance.
It was the whole story around the inheritance that is what interested me most about this book. It is not straightforward, its a distant relative that Molly wasn't aware of, and there are people living in the house already. She wants to do the right thing but even that isn't as simple as it seems, any everyone and their dog appears to have an opinion on it.
There are many things to like about this book, its rural setting and some of the mentions of the animals were amusing. Some of what the children came out with was outright rude towards their mother, but funny at the same time. There is some deceit as well as at least 3 potential men that Molly could become involved with.
We learn about why David, her husband insisted on moving to Herefordshire, which gave a lot of vital background information, and I enjoyed reading that bit. I also loved the whole of the last 30% or so, as everything starts ramping up to conclusions.
About Last Night was just an enjoyable story, that kept me entertained and reminded me that I really enjoy the authors work.
Thank you so much to Michael Joseph and Netgalley for this copy of the book which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
April 6, 2017
So David wants to live the 'Good Life' and moves his family down to a small holding raising sheep and getting muddy and cold and wet and...
But he dies and leaves his widow without enough means to live on - she learns to be a sheep midwife; she learns to be a rather shady horse dealer; she sells sexy knickers by post and by every possible means tries to keep the bailiffs from her door. Luckily the main bailiff is her friend from the book club!
All the time a rather irritating vet hovers around telling Molly what she is doing wrong.
The main action however happens when Molly receives an unexpected inheritance and thinks about moving back to her old London life. And romance enters her life from an also unexpected source.
A feel good, jolly, amusing, enjoyable story of just how chaotic life a life can be, and how women cope when left in rather sticky circumstances through no fault of their own.
But he dies and leaves his widow without enough means to live on - she learns to be a sheep midwife; she learns to be a rather shady horse dealer; she sells sexy knickers by post and by every possible means tries to keep the bailiffs from her door. Luckily the main bailiff is her friend from the book club!
All the time a rather irritating vet hovers around telling Molly what she is doing wrong.
The main action however happens when Molly receives an unexpected inheritance and thinks about moving back to her old London life. And romance enters her life from an also unexpected source.
A feel good, jolly, amusing, enjoyable story of just how chaotic life a life can be, and how women cope when left in rather sticky circumstances through no fault of their own.
March 20, 2017
This book was such fun I didn't want it to end!
A bit predictable in places but it wasn't boring or frustrating. Alliott's quick wit and sense of humour is so similar to mine I pretty much laughed out loud for the duration, sometimes with tears streaming down my face - I certainly got some strange looks! My well-buried stomach muscles and cheek bones thank Catherine for their intense, but unfortunately swift workout! Don't get me wrong, this book isn't all amusement, there is some sadness sprinkled throughout.
It's been a long time since I had a rom-com/chick-lit phase however this has persuaded me that I need to dust off some of the previous Alliott paperbacks on my bulging shelves and indulge in my guilty pleasure.
Recommended to everyone!
Thanks to Penguin UK - Michael Joseph for allowing me to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
A bit predictable in places but it wasn't boring or frustrating. Alliott's quick wit and sense of humour is so similar to mine I pretty much laughed out loud for the duration, sometimes with tears streaming down my face - I certainly got some strange looks! My well-buried stomach muscles and cheek bones thank Catherine for their intense, but unfortunately swift workout! Don't get me wrong, this book isn't all amusement, there is some sadness sprinkled throughout.
It's been a long time since I had a rom-com/chick-lit phase however this has persuaded me that I need to dust off some of the previous Alliott paperbacks on my bulging shelves and indulge in my guilty pleasure.
Recommended to everyone!
Thanks to Penguin UK - Michael Joseph for allowing me to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 8, 2017
This is a fabulous book! Molly struggles to keep her too-big-for-a-smallholding, not-big-enough-for-a-farm afloat by working all hours not only with the animals but also with numerous mail order businesses with hilarious - and sometimes disastrous - results.
The characters in this novel are all well-developed and completely believable, and the storyline itself is realistic. The writing is clever and polished, and this novel has lots going on. I loved that it continued right up until the final few pages with no indication of how it was going to end.
All in all, a very satisfying read and one which has propelled Catherine Alliott right up my favourite authors list. Full five stars and highly recommended from me.
I received an arc via Net Galley in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinions.
The characters in this novel are all well-developed and completely believable, and the storyline itself is realistic. The writing is clever and polished, and this novel has lots going on. I loved that it continued right up until the final few pages with no indication of how it was going to end.
All in all, a very satisfying read and one which has propelled Catherine Alliott right up my favourite authors list. Full five stars and highly recommended from me.
I received an arc via Net Galley in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinions.
April 9, 2017
This was a break from my routine, a light hearted look at the life of middle aged Molly and her family. A family left devastated by the death of Molly's husband David. Five years on and her life going nowhere fast, her grown children are either leaving the nest or languishing in it, mostly prone and drunk, all the while Molly is struggling to keep it together.
A letter from a solicitor throws her new opportunities and she launches headlong to a new life....disastrously I might add.
This was funny, quirky and light hearted, an easy read which kept my interest to the end.
A letter from a solicitor throws her new opportunities and she launches headlong to a new life....disastrously I might add.
This was funny, quirky and light hearted, an easy read which kept my interest to the end.
June 25, 2017
Genuinely one of the worst books I've ever read. The thought that I've spent a Saturday night in reading this makes me want to cry.
None of the characters in this book were likeable. The main character, Molly, who narrates the book is actually vapid, selfish and downright stupid. Her kids are spoilt, lazy and give all other young people a bad name. The plot barely exists.
Honestly wouldn't recommend this to anyone.
None of the characters in this book were likeable. The main character, Molly, who narrates the book is actually vapid, selfish and downright stupid. Her kids are spoilt, lazy and give all other young people a bad name. The plot barely exists.
Honestly wouldn't recommend this to anyone.
June 13, 2017
I would like to thank the publisher and netgalley.com for allowing me to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
This is the first book I have read by Catherine Alliott but I would certainly read more as this was a charming, funny and entertaining read.
As Molly struggles to keep her life on a small farm in Herefordshire going five years after her husband's death she is being pursued by bailiffs for money she owes and seems to get little help from her three children. Then out of the blue she comes into a surprise inheritance from her husband's uncle and her life is turned upside down. Family, friends and animal welfare all prove much more important to Molly than she could ever have imagined and bring her love and happiness once again from the least expected place. I really enjoyed this.
This is the first book I have read by Catherine Alliott but I would certainly read more as this was a charming, funny and entertaining read.
As Molly struggles to keep her life on a small farm in Herefordshire going five years after her husband's death she is being pursued by bailiffs for money she owes and seems to get little help from her three children. Then out of the blue she comes into a surprise inheritance from her husband's uncle and her life is turned upside down. Family, friends and animal welfare all prove much more important to Molly than she could ever have imagined and bring her love and happiness once again from the least expected place. I really enjoyed this.
November 8, 2019
Hey!
This book was a cultural shock.
In my culture, kids do not do a lot of things, that the protagonists kids did in front of their mama. They certainly would never be heard speaking to their parents how the kids in the book speak to their mom. So that was a bit distracting.
Also I mean, I've lived in the sticks, I mean the very sticks, this woman's house is filthy and it's not because she runs a farm. She's just sloppy and lives in squalor. That was distracting.
I'm not going to spend much energy or thought into this review, I thought it was a meh book. I wish I'd bought it for R20 at a second hand shop.
Be prepared to meet disrespectful kids, with annoying friends and a mother who is just stupid and naive as soon as she sees a nice looking man. I am rolling my eyes.
Seriously this book is bad.
This book was a cultural shock.
In my culture, kids do not do a lot of things, that the protagonists kids did in front of their mama. They certainly would never be heard speaking to their parents how the kids in the book speak to their mom. So that was a bit distracting.
Also I mean, I've lived in the sticks, I mean the very sticks, this woman's house is filthy and it's not because she runs a farm. She's just sloppy and lives in squalor. That was distracting.
I'm not going to spend much energy or thought into this review, I thought it was a meh book. I wish I'd bought it for R20 at a second hand shop.
Be prepared to meet disrespectful kids, with annoying friends and a mother who is just stupid and naive as soon as she sees a nice looking man. I am rolling my eyes.
Seriously this book is bad.
March 29, 2017
Loved it. Hilarious and with a happy ending (of course).
July 8, 2017
3.5! Some hilariously, funny, laugh out loud moments! Was a goodie!
January 12, 2019
Took me a while to get into this book, but once I was about a third of the way through I couldn’t put it down.
July 23, 2019
Cant say I loved this and by all accounts found it a bit of a slog. Plot was predictable and Molly very frustrating.
July 20, 2017
ive not laughed like i have when molly roded nutty the horse i was laughing so much my family where saying whats up
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