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Million Love Songs
After splitting up with her cheating ex-husband, Ruby Brown is ready for a change. She's single again for the first time in years and she's going to dive into this brave new world with a smile on her face and a spring in her step. The last thing she's looking for is another serious relationship.
Mason Soames represents everything Ruby wants right now: he's charming, handsome, and perfect for some no-strings-attached fun, and yet Ruby can't help feel that something is missing. Joe Edwards, on the other hand, is also lovely and handsome but he comes with the sort of baggage Ruby wants to avoid: an annoyingly attractive ex-wife and two teenage children.
Ruby soon has some very tough decisions to make. Is she ready for a relationship of any kind, and what type of life does she really want? Because while Ruby may think she knows what she wants, is that what she needs to be truly happy?
Feel-good, wonderful and an absolute must-read from the queen of romance Carole Matthews, Ruby's story will make you laugh, cry and leave you wanting more. It's about to get emotional in Million Love Songs.
Mason Soames represents everything Ruby wants right now: he's charming, handsome, and perfect for some no-strings-attached fun, and yet Ruby can't help feel that something is missing. Joe Edwards, on the other hand, is also lovely and handsome but he comes with the sort of baggage Ruby wants to avoid: an annoyingly attractive ex-wife and two teenage children.
Ruby soon has some very tough decisions to make. Is she ready for a relationship of any kind, and what type of life does she really want? Because while Ruby may think she knows what she wants, is that what she needs to be truly happy?
Feel-good, wonderful and an absolute must-read from the queen of romance Carole Matthews, Ruby's story will make you laugh, cry and leave you wanting more. It's about to get emotional in Million Love Songs.
416 pages, Paperback
Published March 22, 2018
277 people are currently reading
1219 people want to read
About the author
Carole Matthews
75 books1,719 followersCarole Matthews is an international bestselling author of hugely successful romantic comedy novels. Her unique sense of humour has won her legions of fans and critical acclaim all over the world.
A Minor Indiscretion and A Compromising Position both reached the Top 5 in the Sunday Times bestseller chart in the UK. You Drive Me Crazy reached number 8 in the original fiction charts. The novel Welcome To The Real World was shortlisted for RNA romantic novel of the year 2007.
In 2006 Carole co-edited - with writer Sarah Mlynowski - two new editions of the hugely popular Girls' Night In charity series called Girls' Night Out - one for the USA and one for Canada. All proceeds go to War Child.
Carole has presented on television and is a regular radio guest. When she’s not writing novels, television or film scripts she manages to find time to trek in the Himalayas, rollerblade in Central Park, take tea in China and snooze in her garden shed in Milton Keynes which is near London, England.
A Minor Indiscretion and A Compromising Position both reached the Top 5 in the Sunday Times bestseller chart in the UK. You Drive Me Crazy reached number 8 in the original fiction charts. The novel Welcome To The Real World was shortlisted for RNA romantic novel of the year 2007.
In 2006 Carole co-edited - with writer Sarah Mlynowski - two new editions of the hugely popular Girls' Night In charity series called Girls' Night Out - one for the USA and one for Canada. All proceeds go to War Child.
Carole has presented on television and is a regular radio guest. When she’s not writing novels, television or film scripts she manages to find time to trek in the Himalayas, rollerblade in Central Park, take tea in China and snooze in her garden shed in Milton Keynes which is near London, England.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 261 reviews
August 11, 2022
Ruby Brown is recently divorced and started a job by the Butcher's Arm a pub in town. Ruby wants to make a new start and is trying out new things like Scuba Diving and becoming a big fan of Take That with her best friend Charlie.
A love triangle starts soon after Ruby meets her dive instructor, who is recently divorced and has no intention of starting a new relationship and, meeting her boss from the pup who is known to be a shagger but that doesn't hold Ruby back.
I found the book a nice quick read but Ruby made some dumb mistakes especially for a 38 year old who got divorced because her husband was cheating on her. Sometimes I had the feeling I was reading about a teenage girl being in love with 2 guys at the same time..
A love triangle starts soon after Ruby meets her dive instructor, who is recently divorced and has no intention of starting a new relationship and, meeting her boss from the pup who is known to be a shagger but that doesn't hold Ruby back.
I found the book a nice quick read but Ruby made some dumb mistakes especially for a 38 year old who got divorced because her husband was cheating on her. Sometimes I had the feeling I was reading about a teenage girl being in love with 2 guys at the same time..
March 10, 2018
I only have one regret from having read this book, I feel like my enjoyment would have been heightened had I had Take That on a loop in the background. I say this as Ruby's best friend, Charlie was my favourite character of the whole book.
And Charlie is a massive Thatter and even has a life size cardboard cutout of Gary Barlow in her house. In fact she is devoting her life to Gary Barlow, I regard myself as a huge Take That fan, or at least I did until I read about Charlie and her antics, and the sheer amount of other events going on around the country for fans, in addition to chasing down potential sightings.
Obviously Charlie was the character I connected with most, but what of Ruby our main character? Well I enjoy reading all of Ruby's antics and there are some very memorable scenes including some in Paris, a birthday party, and another moment of potential bonding with one of her prospects teenage children.
Ruby for most of the book seemed to be bouncing back and forth between two men, Mason who is a known womaniser and Joe who is a diving instructor when he can spare the time. They are completely different in all aspects of life and Ruby seems to gain different things from each of them.
I really enjoyed reading Million Love Songs, and despite needing Patience with Ruby's male dilema, I did have to Pray that Charlie may get a man for herself. Sure there were some highs and lows, especially since Mason seemed to want to Rule the World at private member club ownership, and there were many Promises being made by both the men to Ruby.
This is a book which I took a real Shine to, and it seemed like The Flood of Take That references would make it so that you could Never Forget just who it was Charlie loved. Being a massive fan of Carole Matthews, it always is the Greatest Day when a new book from her is announced. Just How Deep Is Your Love going to be for this marvellous book?
Thank you to Sphere and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
And Charlie is a massive Thatter and even has a life size cardboard cutout of Gary Barlow in her house. In fact she is devoting her life to Gary Barlow, I regard myself as a huge Take That fan, or at least I did until I read about Charlie and her antics, and the sheer amount of other events going on around the country for fans, in addition to chasing down potential sightings.
Obviously Charlie was the character I connected with most, but what of Ruby our main character? Well I enjoy reading all of Ruby's antics and there are some very memorable scenes including some in Paris, a birthday party, and another moment of potential bonding with one of her prospects teenage children.
Ruby for most of the book seemed to be bouncing back and forth between two men, Mason who is a known womaniser and Joe who is a diving instructor when he can spare the time. They are completely different in all aspects of life and Ruby seems to gain different things from each of them.
I really enjoyed reading Million Love Songs, and despite needing Patience with Ruby's male dilema, I did have to Pray that Charlie may get a man for herself. Sure there were some highs and lows, especially since Mason seemed to want to Rule the World at private member club ownership, and there were many Promises being made by both the men to Ruby.
This is a book which I took a real Shine to, and it seemed like The Flood of Take That references would make it so that you could Never Forget just who it was Charlie loved. Being a massive fan of Carole Matthews, it always is the Greatest Day when a new book from her is announced. Just How Deep Is Your Love going to be for this marvellous book?
Thank you to Sphere and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
January 22, 2018
I struggled with this book due to the fact that there are far too many references to Take That and Gary Barlow. I'm not a fan of either and found it did my head in a lot. I didn't like the character Charlie. I found her completely self absorbed and selfish to the point of irritation. Quite a few times I wanted to smack her with the lifesize cardboard GB. The character of Mason reminded me quite a lot of Daniel Cleaver from Bridget Jones, not only in his behaviour, but also in the way he spoke to Ruby, who I did like.
I'm disappointed that I didn't enjoy this book as much as other books I've read by Carole Matthews. Normally I whizz through her books as they're so enjoyable. Hopefully I'll enjoy her next book more.
I'm disappointed that I didn't enjoy this book as much as other books I've read by Carole Matthews. Normally I whizz through her books as they're so enjoyable. Hopefully I'll enjoy her next book more.
January 27, 2018
Carole Matthews certainly doesn't rest on her laurels as it was only in October that the gorgeous story that was Christmas Cakes and Mistletoe Nights was published and now she is back with a brand new story featuring Ruby Brown called Million Love Songs. Ruby lives in Milton Keynes and is recently divorced from Simon, something she is slowly struggling to come to terms with. After five years it's hard to contemplate the fact that she is once again on her own but as they say when life throws you lemons you make lemonade and that's exactly what she is going to do. She has walked away from her secure, if slightly boring, job, her friends, family, everything. So a fresh start with new adventures is definitely on the cards if she can muster the energy and courage to get out there and attack that dating scene with gusto.
Ruby is known for her reliability and not her impulsiveness but this is an image she wants to shake off. Instead she wants to come across as if she is very sociable, communicative and always ready for fun and the unexpected. This came across very much as bravado on Ruby's part as it was evident she was bruised and broken from her experiences and it would take a lot for those images to vanish from her mind. She needs someone who will set her heart a flutter but what happens when two men present themselves? Can she choose between them? Does she feel she is worthy of either of them?
One could say Ruby was having a pity party based on her situation now stuck living in a granny annexe and working in a gastropub which couldn't have been more different from her previous job. But we have to reach the bottom and go through all the various emotions and experiences before we can see the light and emerge victorious and better off at the top. Her co-worker Charlie Clarke, who becomes her best friend and confidant, may just be the person to help her emerge from the sadness and lack of faith she has in herself. Charlie was a brilliant character, fun, likeable, supportive and never afraid to say what was on her mind. Telling a porky pie was never on her agenda and when Ruby was going down a route that you really wouldn't want your best friend to go down, Charlie wasn't afraid to express her opinion and say hey Ruby this is wrong and you should know it. Whether Ruby always took her advice remained to be seen.
Charlie and her fellow superfan Paul are obsessed with Gary Barlow and in turn Ruby is brought on their adventures as they queue for hours even just to catch a glimpse of their idol. In doing this it was another way for Ruby to get her confidence back, to get out there and do things she would have never thought possible. I was a huge Take That fan back in the day, although Mark was the one I followed, and at first I did enjoy all the Take That references but later it became a bit too much and I felt they could have been curtailed. It was clear Charlie was obsessed with Gary so continuous remainders and mentions weren't strictly necessary all the time throughout most chapters.
The chapters were short and snappy which I like as they usually keep the storyline moving on and if you need to stop reading for any reason there wasn't that frustration that you had to leave the story in the middle of the chapter. I did think the book was too long though, there were several points where I thought it had come to a natural conclusion and I would have been happy with the ending and yet it went on for several more chapters. Even the epilogue had plenty in it with one final surprise but by that stage I had thought the outcome had been achieved and then another twist had been put in. The indecisiveness of Ruby throughout the story irritated me at times. At the end of chapter she was firm, no that's it I'm having nothing to do with so and so and then a chapter later she was back with said person. In this sense she was reckless and dived straight in to things despite the advice of Charlie.
Charlie knew what she was talking about as we learn when more is revealed about her background and I wished Ruby had the good sense to listen to her friend. There was too much back and forth which I know is needed in a book where a woman is looking for a new start in life and a new love interest but it became confusing to keep track and therefore my general opinion of Ruby changed countless times. I wasn't even sure who I wanted her to end up with as the two men in question had attributes some of which I liked and some I didn't. I could see Ruby was confused and torn all the time and it was understandable given she had just come out of a marriage she believed to be very much stable and for the long term. But still she tested the waters a bit too much for my liking and the flitting back and forth at times hindered my enjoyment of the story.
So to the two men in question which have Ruby's heart torn in two and filled with indecision. Joe runs scuba diving classes which Ruby decides to try her hand at. She soon finds out it's a pastime not for her but maybe Joe could become more than a pastime? Unfortunately he is recently separated but has two teenage children and an ex who are very demanding. Ruby feels that with Joe she will never be the main priority, that his sole focus and attention will never be on her. She does have feelings for him but how can they develop into something more if one person gives 100% and the other doesn't. I can't say I had any particular feelings towards Joe. I didn't dislike him nor was I overly enamoured with him. He seemed to blow very hot and cold and didn't know what he wanted with regards to his future. I think he needed to be more honest with Ruby and not have her running after him thinking something deeper could happen when maybe he wasn't ready for that. He needed to find his own resolution before concentrating on Ruby.
Mason Soames is Ruby's boss at the pub. A man about town, business man. He was suave and sophisticated and had the reputation that went with it. He was cute, young, cocky, smooth and charming and ignited a spark in Ruby that made her transform from a broken woman to someone with fire in her belly willing to go against the persona she portrayed when we first met her. The weekend in Paris springs to mind even if what went on was very much not of her character. Mason had such a way about him, it was almost like Ruby fell under his spell as I am sure many readers will do to. But surely you need someone with a bit more stability, who won't act rashly and can keep their attention on one person at a time? Roving eyes aren't ideal in a relationship no matter how handsome you are and what you can provide someone with or even if the words you want to hear come out of their mouth.
The remainder of the story went back and forth between the two and Ruby's confusion and feelings increased. It became a bit repetitive and I can't say it held my interest throughout. Million Love Songs as a whole was bit of a mixed bag for me. It could have been amazing but I didn't get the compulsive need to never leave the book out of my hands in order to discover the final outcome. I much preferred Paper Hearts and Summer Kisses and the Christmas book I mentioned above. In general that's what happens with me with Carole Matthews books I like two or three in succession and then there is one that is not for me. I am glad I read this book because I think I would read anything Carole writes but this one just wasn't my favourite.
Ruby is known for her reliability and not her impulsiveness but this is an image she wants to shake off. Instead she wants to come across as if she is very sociable, communicative and always ready for fun and the unexpected. This came across very much as bravado on Ruby's part as it was evident she was bruised and broken from her experiences and it would take a lot for those images to vanish from her mind. She needs someone who will set her heart a flutter but what happens when two men present themselves? Can she choose between them? Does she feel she is worthy of either of them?
One could say Ruby was having a pity party based on her situation now stuck living in a granny annexe and working in a gastropub which couldn't have been more different from her previous job. But we have to reach the bottom and go through all the various emotions and experiences before we can see the light and emerge victorious and better off at the top. Her co-worker Charlie Clarke, who becomes her best friend and confidant, may just be the person to help her emerge from the sadness and lack of faith she has in herself. Charlie was a brilliant character, fun, likeable, supportive and never afraid to say what was on her mind. Telling a porky pie was never on her agenda and when Ruby was going down a route that you really wouldn't want your best friend to go down, Charlie wasn't afraid to express her opinion and say hey Ruby this is wrong and you should know it. Whether Ruby always took her advice remained to be seen.
Charlie and her fellow superfan Paul are obsessed with Gary Barlow and in turn Ruby is brought on their adventures as they queue for hours even just to catch a glimpse of their idol. In doing this it was another way for Ruby to get her confidence back, to get out there and do things she would have never thought possible. I was a huge Take That fan back in the day, although Mark was the one I followed, and at first I did enjoy all the Take That references but later it became a bit too much and I felt they could have been curtailed. It was clear Charlie was obsessed with Gary so continuous remainders and mentions weren't strictly necessary all the time throughout most chapters.
The chapters were short and snappy which I like as they usually keep the storyline moving on and if you need to stop reading for any reason there wasn't that frustration that you had to leave the story in the middle of the chapter. I did think the book was too long though, there were several points where I thought it had come to a natural conclusion and I would have been happy with the ending and yet it went on for several more chapters. Even the epilogue had plenty in it with one final surprise but by that stage I had thought the outcome had been achieved and then another twist had been put in. The indecisiveness of Ruby throughout the story irritated me at times. At the end of chapter she was firm, no that's it I'm having nothing to do with so and so and then a chapter later she was back with said person. In this sense she was reckless and dived straight in to things despite the advice of Charlie.
Charlie knew what she was talking about as we learn when more is revealed about her background and I wished Ruby had the good sense to listen to her friend. There was too much back and forth which I know is needed in a book where a woman is looking for a new start in life and a new love interest but it became confusing to keep track and therefore my general opinion of Ruby changed countless times. I wasn't even sure who I wanted her to end up with as the two men in question had attributes some of which I liked and some I didn't. I could see Ruby was confused and torn all the time and it was understandable given she had just come out of a marriage she believed to be very much stable and for the long term. But still she tested the waters a bit too much for my liking and the flitting back and forth at times hindered my enjoyment of the story.
So to the two men in question which have Ruby's heart torn in two and filled with indecision. Joe runs scuba diving classes which Ruby decides to try her hand at. She soon finds out it's a pastime not for her but maybe Joe could become more than a pastime? Unfortunately he is recently separated but has two teenage children and an ex who are very demanding. Ruby feels that with Joe she will never be the main priority, that his sole focus and attention will never be on her. She does have feelings for him but how can they develop into something more if one person gives 100% and the other doesn't. I can't say I had any particular feelings towards Joe. I didn't dislike him nor was I overly enamoured with him. He seemed to blow very hot and cold and didn't know what he wanted with regards to his future. I think he needed to be more honest with Ruby and not have her running after him thinking something deeper could happen when maybe he wasn't ready for that. He needed to find his own resolution before concentrating on Ruby.
Mason Soames is Ruby's boss at the pub. A man about town, business man. He was suave and sophisticated and had the reputation that went with it. He was cute, young, cocky, smooth and charming and ignited a spark in Ruby that made her transform from a broken woman to someone with fire in her belly willing to go against the persona she portrayed when we first met her. The weekend in Paris springs to mind even if what went on was very much not of her character. Mason had such a way about him, it was almost like Ruby fell under his spell as I am sure many readers will do to. But surely you need someone with a bit more stability, who won't act rashly and can keep their attention on one person at a time? Roving eyes aren't ideal in a relationship no matter how handsome you are and what you can provide someone with or even if the words you want to hear come out of their mouth.
The remainder of the story went back and forth between the two and Ruby's confusion and feelings increased. It became a bit repetitive and I can't say it held my interest throughout. Million Love Songs as a whole was bit of a mixed bag for me. It could have been amazing but I didn't get the compulsive need to never leave the book out of my hands in order to discover the final outcome. I much preferred Paper Hearts and Summer Kisses and the Christmas book I mentioned above. In general that's what happens with me with Carole Matthews books I like two or three in succession and then there is one that is not for me. I am glad I read this book because I think I would read anything Carole writes but this one just wasn't my favourite.
January 13, 2019
3.5 out of 5.
March 28, 2020
Ruby Brown is ready for a change.
She's single for the first time in years and she's going to dive into this brave new world with a smile on her face and a spring in her step. The last thing she's looking for is a serious relationship.
Mason represents everything Ruby wants right now: he's charming, smooth and perfect for some no-strings-attached fun. Joe on the other hand is kind and attractive, but comes with the sort of baggage Ruby wants to avoid: an annoyingly attractive ex-wife and two teenage children.
Ruby thinks she knows what she wants, but is it what she needs to be truly happy? It's about to get emotional in Million Love Songs.
The book is written in 1st person, with Ruby as our narrator. It's a very easy read, the writing style is engaging and the chapters are very short - most of them being less than 5 minutes. The book is pretty tame, sex is mentioned and we get many fade to black type scenes. But some things are described, such as "we get naked," and "pleasure my body" - but that's all. There is also a few instances of swear words being used, but not many and its used in context.
I enjoyed this book, it's a very easy read and its not a particularly deep read. Which is not a bad thing, sometimes its just what you need. I liked Ruby and her best friend Charlie, all of the characters were lovely really and I liked how the ending turned out. It was also a very realistic read in some respects, which was great. I liked the Take That fan girling too - it was nice that it was portrayed as a way to bring people together and as a form of escapism, rather than obsession
She's single for the first time in years and she's going to dive into this brave new world with a smile on her face and a spring in her step. The last thing she's looking for is a serious relationship.
Mason represents everything Ruby wants right now: he's charming, smooth and perfect for some no-strings-attached fun. Joe on the other hand is kind and attractive, but comes with the sort of baggage Ruby wants to avoid: an annoyingly attractive ex-wife and two teenage children.
Ruby thinks she knows what she wants, but is it what she needs to be truly happy? It's about to get emotional in Million Love Songs.
The book is written in 1st person, with Ruby as our narrator. It's a very easy read, the writing style is engaging and the chapters are very short - most of them being less than 5 minutes. The book is pretty tame, sex is mentioned and we get many fade to black type scenes. But some things are described, such as "we get naked," and "pleasure my body" - but that's all. There is also a few instances of swear words being used, but not many and its used in context.
I enjoyed this book, it's a very easy read and its not a particularly deep read. Which is not a bad thing, sometimes its just what you need. I liked Ruby and her best friend Charlie, all of the characters were lovely really and I liked how the ending turned out. It was also a very realistic read in some respects, which was great. I liked the Take That fan girling too - it was nice that it was portrayed as a way to bring people together and as a form of escapism, rather than obsession
November 29, 2019
3.5 STARS= Good= Quite Enjoyable= I liked it...!
December 22, 2021
Carole Matthews is a global bestselling author of hugely successful rom-com novels. Her remarkable sense of humour has won her units of fans and critical acclaim worldwide.
"A Minor Indiscretion" and "A Compromising Position" earned the Top 5 in the Sunday Times bestseller chart in the UK. "You Drive Me Crazy" got to number 8 in the original fiction charts. The book "Welcome To The Real World" was shortlisted for RNA romantic novel of 2007. In 2006 Carole co-edited - with author Sarah Mlynowski - two latest editions of the hugely favoured "Girls' Night In charity" series named "Girls' Night Out" - one for the USA and one for Canada. All profits go to War Child.
After breaking up with her cheating ex, Ruby Brown is prepared for a change. She is single again for the first time in years, and she will dive into a new world. The last item she is looking for is a serious relationship.
Mason represents everything Ruby wants right now: he is charming, smooth and perfect for some no-strings-attached fun, and yet Ruby cannot help feeling that something is missing. On the other hand, Joe is kind and attentive, but he arrives with the sort of luggage Ruby wants to avoid: an annoyingly beautiful ex-wife and two teenage kids. And though Ruby thinks she understands what she wants, is it what she needs to be happy? It is about to get emotional in "Million Love Songs".
First of all, I have to say that I usually do not gravitate forwards to romance books or romantic comedy's especially, and I have been gifted this book to read it. I did have some funny moments, and I did feel entertained; however, I do have to say that it's not my genre end. The plot was too predictable, in my opinion. Moreover, I did not enjoy the characters. I felt like they had a dull and plain personality and a 2000 kid, and I don't get the hype of taking That, especially since I wasn't born then and always having these references was hard to understand.
Moreover, I thought that the friendship between Ruby and Charlie wasn't as great as I thought their relationship would be after reading a few chapters. I think how the author continually referred to her cheating ex-husband and always talking about the new woman of the husband's sparkling vagina was quite irritating. Also that the main character always struggled with the fact that she had a threesome and constantly brought it up, or worse, weird to read, in my opinion.
Overall I somewhat enjoyed the book. It had some funny moments, but it is absolutely not my cup of tea, and I would recommend it if you like to read romantic comedy books, but if it's not your thing, do not even pick it up because I know you will not like it.
TW: Cheating, Sexual Scenes, Hospitalisation, Parent Absence
"A Minor Indiscretion" and "A Compromising Position" earned the Top 5 in the Sunday Times bestseller chart in the UK. "You Drive Me Crazy" got to number 8 in the original fiction charts. The book "Welcome To The Real World" was shortlisted for RNA romantic novel of 2007. In 2006 Carole co-edited - with author Sarah Mlynowski - two latest editions of the hugely favoured "Girls' Night In charity" series named "Girls' Night Out" - one for the USA and one for Canada. All profits go to War Child.
After breaking up with her cheating ex, Ruby Brown is prepared for a change. She is single again for the first time in years, and she will dive into a new world. The last item she is looking for is a serious relationship.
Mason represents everything Ruby wants right now: he is charming, smooth and perfect for some no-strings-attached fun, and yet Ruby cannot help feeling that something is missing. On the other hand, Joe is kind and attentive, but he arrives with the sort of luggage Ruby wants to avoid: an annoyingly beautiful ex-wife and two teenage kids. And though Ruby thinks she understands what she wants, is it what she needs to be happy? It is about to get emotional in "Million Love Songs".
First of all, I have to say that I usually do not gravitate forwards to romance books or romantic comedy's especially, and I have been gifted this book to read it. I did have some funny moments, and I did feel entertained; however, I do have to say that it's not my genre end. The plot was too predictable, in my opinion. Moreover, I did not enjoy the characters. I felt like they had a dull and plain personality and a 2000 kid, and I don't get the hype of taking That, especially since I wasn't born then and always having these references was hard to understand.
Moreover, I thought that the friendship between Ruby and Charlie wasn't as great as I thought their relationship would be after reading a few chapters. I think how the author continually referred to her cheating ex-husband and always talking about the new woman of the husband's sparkling vagina was quite irritating. Also that the main character always struggled with the fact that she had a threesome and constantly brought it up, or worse, weird to read, in my opinion.
Overall I somewhat enjoyed the book. It had some funny moments, but it is absolutely not my cup of tea, and I would recommend it if you like to read romantic comedy books, but if it's not your thing, do not even pick it up because I know you will not like it.
TW: Cheating, Sexual Scenes, Hospitalisation, Parent Absence
August 14, 2018
Going back to the author that started my love affair with Romance novels, Carole Matthews is without a doubt one of my favourite authors. She has a way of grabbing the readers attention from the very beginning and throughout the whole novel.
The cover of this particular novel of hers is quite different to the ones I've read before but I actually quite like that. It's simplistic, which I think a lot of authors are going for now, but it works well and doesn't give the story away too much. However, there are key details scattered around the cover that gives us some sort of inkling. I love the colourful little birds, the eiffel tower, the cups of tea and also the pretty flowers. The font also catches your eye.
I'm umming and ahhing as to rate this a 3.5 or 4 stars! It took me quite a while to get into this story, but when I did I just couldn't put it down. It wasn't as happy and bubbly as Carole's other novels, and for that I'm not sure if I enjoyed it as much. Don't get me wrong, it ends nicely but quite abruptly in my opinion! I found myself quite often getting a bit irritated with what Ruby did, especially when things seemed to be going quite well for her! The whole love triangle thing between Ruby, Joe and Mason was interesting but quite exhausting at the same time!
Quite surprisingly, I did really enjoy the concerts and events to do with Take That! I'm not a big fan in any sense but it was really enjoyable reading about Charlie and Nice Paul and all the events that they went to. I also enjoyed the part where Ruby went to Paris, even though what happened there was quite unexpected and I couldn't quite believe I was reading it! I'm glad with how it ended, I feel that Ruby got the right man and I'm pleased she didn't end up with who she could have been!
Overall, an interesting and enjoyable read but not my favourite of Carole Matthews novels unfortunately.
The cover of this particular novel of hers is quite different to the ones I've read before but I actually quite like that. It's simplistic, which I think a lot of authors are going for now, but it works well and doesn't give the story away too much. However, there are key details scattered around the cover that gives us some sort of inkling. I love the colourful little birds, the eiffel tower, the cups of tea and also the pretty flowers. The font also catches your eye.
I'm umming and ahhing as to rate this a 3.5 or 4 stars! It took me quite a while to get into this story, but when I did I just couldn't put it down. It wasn't as happy and bubbly as Carole's other novels, and for that I'm not sure if I enjoyed it as much. Don't get me wrong, it ends nicely but quite abruptly in my opinion! I found myself quite often getting a bit irritated with what Ruby did, especially when things seemed to be going quite well for her! The whole love triangle thing between Ruby, Joe and Mason was interesting but quite exhausting at the same time!
Quite surprisingly, I did really enjoy the concerts and events to do with Take That! I'm not a big fan in any sense but it was really enjoyable reading about Charlie and Nice Paul and all the events that they went to. I also enjoyed the part where Ruby went to Paris, even though what happened there was quite unexpected and I couldn't quite believe I was reading it! I'm glad with how it ended, I feel that Ruby got the right man and I'm pleased she didn't end up with who she could have been!
Overall, an interesting and enjoyable read but not my favourite of Carole Matthews novels unfortunately.
November 24, 2018
Generally speaking I don’t ‘do’ chicklit. Generally speaking, I don’t enjoy the predictability of the plots or the slightly patronising style of treating the reader. Just occasionally though you find one that’s more readable than others and before I know it I’ve quite enjoyed reading it. I’ve surprised myself here. I wasn’t expecting much & I didn’t particularly enjoy the ‘chatty’ way it’s written but it’s a book club pic so I sat down to read it with low expectations. Perhaps that helped. Perhaps it also helped that I’d just come off the back of one which really tested my patience. There’s a lot of Take That and Gary Barlow in this book which does get a bit irritating plus parts of it just don’t add up, but I suppose it is original. The main character Ruby is at best ditsy & yes the plot is predictable & silly in places. But.... it’s a light fun read. 2.5/5 more than 3 for me x
June 10, 2018
Always love a Carole Matthews book and such ab easy enjoyable read. Full of romance and finding happiness and take that. Emotional as well and really finding what you want in life can be harder than you think at times you want to burst into song as they talk about take that songs. Very enjoyable read.
Ruby has recently split from her long term relationship and she doesn't want to rush into another relationship it's the last thing she wants and she just wants to enjoy life. At work she meets her boss Mason and he's everything Ruby wants just now with no strings attached fun but then she meets Jo and he's so kind and handsome but has lots of baggage which she needs to avoid as he has an ex and two children. Can Ruby decide what she wants it dies she just want to be single but she needs to find her happiness but it does get emotional along the way. Who does she decide if any and can she be happy.
Ruby has recently split from her long term relationship and she doesn't want to rush into another relationship it's the last thing she wants and she just wants to enjoy life. At work she meets her boss Mason and he's everything Ruby wants just now with no strings attached fun but then she meets Jo and he's so kind and handsome but has lots of baggage which she needs to avoid as he has an ex and two children. Can Ruby decide what she wants it dies she just want to be single but she needs to find her happiness but it does get emotional along the way. Who does she decide if any and can she be happy.
January 21, 2019
I got this in a book box and, since romance novels are not at all my thing, I can't say I was looking forward to reading it. It was about as good as I expected, which is to say not very. I guess if you like a first-person, simplistic writing style with a very obvious plot and constant mentions of Take That throughout this could be the book for you. I'm just glad she finally stopped mentioning the vajazzle after 100 or so pages.
April 1, 2018
Carole Matthews's books are your guarantee of wit, humour, some drama and romance. I've been reading her books for many years already and I've always enjoyed them, as she creates likeable characters, the writing style is so light and easy to follow and the stories are never too heavy even though there is always some seriousness and heavier stuff in them. The characters are believable, as well as the situations they find themselves in, and it's the same with "Million Love Songs".
In this newest release we meet Ruby Brown, freshly divorced from Simon, and actually coming to terms with this fact. They were five long years together and it's hard to settle in but Ruby is determined to start afresh and you know what they say - when life throws you lemons, just make a lemonade (I should probably try to adapt this motto by myself as March was officially the worst month ever. And April won't be better). She quitted her old job, moved to a small granny - flat, got a new job at a pub and some new friends, so it really is everything new and fresh for her.
Ruby was a great character and I hoped everything is going to pan out for her. She wasn't afraid of new things, she was open to anything, she was cheery and optimistic and I grinned at her many antics, and she for sure was a part of many, many memorable scenes. The one thing that bothered me a little was the fact that she seemed to be all the time bouncing back and forth between two men, desperate for a man in her life and it seemed somehow so desperate, while I really liked her on her own. Well, it was just after her divorce that she's decided she wants to be a little more impulsive and try many new things, right? That she's ready for fun and new? She was also strong by herself. There was too much of Ruby's going back and forth and her indecisiveness. She's been changing her mind too many times and it irritated me sometimes because when you once say yes then please, stick to your word, especially when others warn you as well. And she kept changing her mind countless times.
And Mason. I'm not sure why but Mason is for me a serial killer - there is something in the name (sorry. Pay no attention, really). So it's not a wonder that I didn't warm to him completely, no? He was also a well - known womanizer with tons of money and too much spare time. Yes, I liked Joe better, although there were moments that I wanted to yell at him to make a decision. He seemed to blow Ruby hot and cold and I think she didn't deserve it. But altogether, both men had their pros and cons and sometimes I wasn't sure who I wanted her to end up with. Maybe adding a third male character would be an idea.
I loved the music and songs references - no matter if you were Take That fan or not, you know their songs and I found myself humming. But - I am not so sure what to think about the whole Take That obsession. On one hand it is great to have a hobby, and oh well, yes, I also have a crush on a music star, even at my age, but this here is taking it to another level. I mean, I have a life. The following seemed more like stalking for me and really, to be totally honest, I thought that Ruby deserves much more from her life, no? But it's just me, as Ruby's friend Charlie seemed really happy with living with a life-sized cardboard figure of Gary Barlow and the huge amount of events she was going to and hoping for potential sightings. Whatever you like...
The chapters, as usually, were short and snappy, which I really like in books as it makes the whole book quicker to read and the storyline keeps moving fast. And of course in such cases it is always one chapter more and you find yourself reading and reading, totally engrossed in this lovely story.
"One Million Love Songs" was a warm, uplifting read written with so much heart and understanding. I love Carole Matthews's writing style, it immediately takes you into the heart of the story and then on a journey full of twists and turns, a journey that's rather bumpy than flat. It's charming and full of humour and poignant moment, that are, as always, so very well balanced and intertwined together. Altogether, I can only - and I do it very happily - recommend this novel to both the old as well as new Ms Matthews's fans.
Copy provided by the publisher in return for an honest review.
August 6, 2018
I really wanted to love this book. I am a massive Take That fan and could identify with the references in the story to Take That and their concerts. I think Carole captured that well. In fact, really, they were the only parts I enjoyed. I am usually a huge fan of Carole Matthews' work, but I couldn't get into this story much. I did skip a bit in the middle. I just didn't find the main character very likable or easy to connect to. In all, an okay read. Not my favourite story of hers, but also not bad.
January 9, 2018
An easy, light-hearted read with lots of humorous moments. Maybe a few too many Take That references but overall, very enjoyable.
January 2, 2024
I absolutely adored this book.
From the very first page, right through to the very end I was hooked.
This book is a book that will leave you wanting more but will also see you laughing, singing and dancing to Take That... 'A million love songs later
And here I am trying to tell you that I care
A million love songs later
And here I am Here I am
A million love songs later
Here I am' Ok, no more singing 🤣.
This book will also see your heart bursting with happiness for the characters and how it all ends, it isn't an easy journey to say the least.
This book transported me from my sofa to Milton Keynes and Paris and now has me thinking about ordering a cardboard cut out Gary Barlow from eBay.
Ruby and Joe did remind me of Fay and Danny from The cake shop in the garden but also Ruby, Mason and Joe reminded me of Lucy, Aidan and Marcus from The chocolate lovers series.
I am gutted to have come to the end of this story, I felt so included in the story that when it came to the end, everything was still carrying on around me and there I am, bursting with joy for the characters unable to think about anything else let alone do anything else.
I can highly recommend this book to all fans of Take That and in particularly Gary Barlow, old and new fans of Carole's and to anyone who loves a good chick lit book to escape in.
From the very first page, right through to the very end I was hooked.
This book is a book that will leave you wanting more but will also see you laughing, singing and dancing to Take That... 'A million love songs later
And here I am trying to tell you that I care
A million love songs later
And here I am Here I am
A million love songs later
Here I am' Ok, no more singing 🤣.
This book will also see your heart bursting with happiness for the characters and how it all ends, it isn't an easy journey to say the least.
This book transported me from my sofa to Milton Keynes and Paris and now has me thinking about ordering a cardboard cut out Gary Barlow from eBay.
Ruby and Joe did remind me of Fay and Danny from The cake shop in the garden but also Ruby, Mason and Joe reminded me of Lucy, Aidan and Marcus from The chocolate lovers series.
I am gutted to have come to the end of this story, I felt so included in the story that when it came to the end, everything was still carrying on around me and there I am, bursting with joy for the characters unable to think about anything else let alone do anything else.
I can highly recommend this book to all fans of Take That and in particularly Gary Barlow, old and new fans of Carole's and to anyone who loves a good chick lit book to escape in.
May 22, 2018
This isn't the greatest story, it's predictable and I wanted to shout at the main character Ruby to tell her to get over herself, the story starts after Ruby has been through a divorce, she is trying to find herself, proceeding to do so by getting involved with two very different men. Is it not possible for a woman to find herself without a man? At one point she meets one of the mans children, it doesn't go well, because the children do not immediately take to her. As a result she ends the relationship. What did she expect, they are kids and she is someone new in their Dad's relationship. Ruby had no empathy for the children, she only thought how awful it was for her, how much she wanted them to like her, not what it was like to be them.
Finally the author writes as though Ruby is having a conversation with the reader, I'm not much older than Ruby, but I have no friends who say 'obvs' or 'wtf' when speaking to me, they would use the full words of phrase. Largely because we are not teenagers, even more reason why I disliked Ruby.
Predictable ending, and I would suggest that if you are looking for a good story then you shouldn't bother with this.
My husband bought me this book, I have suggested that in future he doesn't go rogue again and tries to stick to my reading list when buying me books.
Finally the author writes as though Ruby is having a conversation with the reader, I'm not much older than Ruby, but I have no friends who say 'obvs' or 'wtf' when speaking to me, they would use the full words of phrase. Largely because we are not teenagers, even more reason why I disliked Ruby.
Predictable ending, and I would suggest that if you are looking for a good story then you shouldn't bother with this.
My husband bought me this book, I have suggested that in future he doesn't go rogue again and tries to stick to my reading list when buying me books.
January 22, 2018
After five years of marriage Ruby finds herself suddenly single. After catching her cheating husband in bed with another woman.
Ruby is going into this swinging. She is ready for some fun. Her manager Mason is offering the no strings attached kind of fun Ruby is looking for. Which leads her into some kind of situations that she never in a million years thought that she would be doing. But Ruby can’t help but think that something is missing.
However Joe Edwards, is good looking, absolutely lovely and the chemistry between them is electric. But he has some issues. Mainly divorce proceedings and two teenage children. Whose mother seems to only put herself first. With things constantly in the air. Joe isn’t looking for a relationship.
Soon Ruby finds herself having to seriously think about what she wants in life, and having to think about what she wants out of her next relationship.
A fun, funny, romantic and absolutely charming book that chicklit and romance fans will absolutely love. I couldn’t get enough of this book and read it in one greedy sitting.
Ruby is going into this swinging. She is ready for some fun. Her manager Mason is offering the no strings attached kind of fun Ruby is looking for. Which leads her into some kind of situations that she never in a million years thought that she would be doing. But Ruby can’t help but think that something is missing.
However Joe Edwards, is good looking, absolutely lovely and the chemistry between them is electric. But he has some issues. Mainly divorce proceedings and two teenage children. Whose mother seems to only put herself first. With things constantly in the air. Joe isn’t looking for a relationship.
Soon Ruby finds herself having to seriously think about what she wants in life, and having to think about what she wants out of her next relationship.
A fun, funny, romantic and absolutely charming book that chicklit and romance fans will absolutely love. I couldn’t get enough of this book and read it in one greedy sitting.
February 5, 2018
Carole Matthews just gets better and better. Whilst I haven't still read all her books I think this is one of my favourites now. As an avid Take That fan - seen them in concert AND even managed to appear on one of their videos, it brought back so many memories. At first I struggled with the way it was written, 1st person, present tense, and a lot of the word 'obvs' but aside from that I LOVED it!!! All the characters, the storyline, and it did have me guessing about 'who' would be the one. It has certainly relit my fire for Take That and am now digging out all their Cds and trying to find that video. An absolute must read.
February 3, 2018
Such a great book! I have to say my heart was in my mouth at the end wondering how & who Ruby would end up with! I would love a sequel to find out what happens next please!
January 18, 2018
4.5* http://greatreadsandtealeaves.blogspo...
‘Life should get easier once you leave the playground, but it doesn’t. Then you think you’ll have it sorted in your teens and you don’t. So you hurtle into your twenties when you’re sure you’ll crack the meaning of life. Yet here I am in my late thirties and I’m still all at sea.’
When you are looking for a solid, reliable read with some quality escapism, then Carole Matthews will always provide. This is a highly entertaining read with many a humorous moment. As Matthews says, it’s just about an ordinary woman trying to discover what is right for herself with lots of bumps along the way. You have to admire the lead character Ruby as she tries to work through things:
‘I was a little bit frightened of change. That’s no reason to stay anywhere, is it?’
I always enjoy Mathews humour, there is much to smile about whilst reading - everything from Ruby’s friend pursuit of the boy band, to her search for potential hobbies, their ‘muffin top’ laments and just some great one liners that really resonated with me, thus making the characters and story relatable:
‘I’m fretting about catching pneumonia or pleurisy by going out with damp hair –the things that your mother tells you leave scars for life .’
‘I try to pull it down at the sides. ‘If you’ve got it, flaunt it,’ Charlie instructs.
‘I don’t think I have got it. I’m pretty sure it went a long time ago.’
The two love interests for Ruby could not be more different - but I guess that was the point. Whilst I appreciated her indecision, sometimes her decisions were perplexing. But again, standing at the side, it’s easy for me to draw rational conclusions - this was Ruby’s journey I guess and she had to go through all the highs and lows. I also loved the whole 80s boy band saga but at times this too was drawn out just a tad too much for my liking.
Overall this is a fun book with much to endear itself to the reader. Do yourself a favour, take a break from the craziness of life and spend some time getting to know Ruby and the gang.
‘I’m content for the first time in a long time. Sometimes we hurtle through life, don’t we? I’m rushing off to work or racing round the supermarket, doing a dozen other things that I really don’t want to be doing and it’s easy not to stop and simply take a breath.’
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher and provided through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The quoted material may have changed in the final release
‘Life should get easier once you leave the playground, but it doesn’t. Then you think you’ll have it sorted in your teens and you don’t. So you hurtle into your twenties when you’re sure you’ll crack the meaning of life. Yet here I am in my late thirties and I’m still all at sea.’
When you are looking for a solid, reliable read with some quality escapism, then Carole Matthews will always provide. This is a highly entertaining read with many a humorous moment. As Matthews says, it’s just about an ordinary woman trying to discover what is right for herself with lots of bumps along the way. You have to admire the lead character Ruby as she tries to work through things:
‘I was a little bit frightened of change. That’s no reason to stay anywhere, is it?’
I always enjoy Mathews humour, there is much to smile about whilst reading - everything from Ruby’s friend pursuit of the boy band, to her search for potential hobbies, their ‘muffin top’ laments and just some great one liners that really resonated with me, thus making the characters and story relatable:
‘I’m fretting about catching pneumonia or pleurisy by going out with damp hair –the things that your mother tells you leave scars for life .’
‘I try to pull it down at the sides. ‘If you’ve got it, flaunt it,’ Charlie instructs.
‘I don’t think I have got it. I’m pretty sure it went a long time ago.’
The two love interests for Ruby could not be more different - but I guess that was the point. Whilst I appreciated her indecision, sometimes her decisions were perplexing. But again, standing at the side, it’s easy for me to draw rational conclusions - this was Ruby’s journey I guess and she had to go through all the highs and lows. I also loved the whole 80s boy band saga but at times this too was drawn out just a tad too much for my liking.
Overall this is a fun book with much to endear itself to the reader. Do yourself a favour, take a break from the craziness of life and spend some time getting to know Ruby and the gang.
‘I’m content for the first time in a long time. Sometimes we hurtle through life, don’t we? I’m rushing off to work or racing round the supermarket, doing a dozen other things that I really don’t want to be doing and it’s easy not to stop and simply take a breath.’
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher and provided through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The quoted material may have changed in the final release
January 6, 2020
I've had this one on my TBR for a while and I kept putting it back down as I'm not a huge fan of the romance, will they, won't they genre thing. Also, the blurb didn't make me think it would be anything different. However, someone I knew really enjoyed this book and I pulled it out of the TBR jar so I decided too give it a chance.
Firstly I want to say that this a really well written book and that I really liked the main character. In fact Ruby Brown is great! She's like someone I could meet on the street and how she reacted to everything (even things that were her own fault, like continuing to hang around with one of the love interest even though she knew he was no good) felt genuine. Also her relationship with her best friend, Charlie was brilliant and made me smile because again it felt real. It was so nice to read a book where the two best girl friends don't fall out over something stupid. I would actually quite like to visit these characters again and I'm glad they got their happy endings.
That being said, this book really reminded me of why I'm not a huge fan of this type of genre. The two love interests annoyed me.
Firstly I want to say that this a really well written book and that I really liked the main character. In fact Ruby Brown is great! She's like someone I could meet on the street and how she reacted to everything (even things that were her own fault, like continuing to hang around with one of the love interest even though she knew he was no good) felt genuine. Also her relationship with her best friend, Charlie was brilliant and made me smile because again it felt real. It was so nice to read a book where the two best girl friends don't fall out over something stupid. I would actually quite like to visit these characters again and I'm glad they got their happy endings.
That being said, this book really reminded me of why I'm not a huge fan of this type of genre. The two love interests annoyed me.
October 25, 2018
Centring on Ruby Brown, whose husband Simon has been a cheating no-good bounder, this was a fast summer read. Mini chapters that keep the story moving along and short enough to read whilst waiting for a bus.
Ruby decides she’s had enough of commitment and just wants some fun in her life. So she’s left her council job and moved to Milton Keynes. As you do. I changed jobs so I didn’t have to move to Milton Keynes. I also turned down a proposal from a man from Milton Keynes. But it works for Ruby. Well, sort of. I think her divorce has scarred her more than she likes to own up to but when she begins her new job in a gastro-pub, she makes friends with Charlie who provides that confidante role she’s been missing. Charlie, however, is obsessed with Gary Barlow. Way over the top. Her friend Paul is even worse. Ruby is somehow dragged into this obsession with them as they queue up to see Gary Barlow, go on Take That conventions and feed their fixation.
Meanwhile Ruby is doing other things too like scuba diving lessons, taking a fancy to the instructor Joe, involving herself in misunderstandings, having a fling with Mason, her boss at the pub who could be a bigger bounder than Simon was, and getting into all manner of difficult situations. She bounces between the two blokes without thinking anything through properly and making the right decision for herself. Joe’s a divorced father with tricky teenage children, and he sends confusing mixed messages. Mason is a s**t to be frank, but fascinates Ruby and she makes some daft choices regarding him that made me furious with her! The episode with Valerie was in particular bad taste and out of character. It didn’t fit well at all.
I am far from being a Mr Barlow fan but I did like the band when I was younger. It didn't spoil the book, but I found there were a few too many Take That and Gary Barlow references. We knew Charlie was obsessed and didn’t need reminding. She had a cardboard cut-out of the bloke for heavens’ sake! What annoyed me most were the constant references to "Nice" Paul. Just Paul would have done after the first couple of mentions! Still a happy weekend read, though.
Ruby decides she’s had enough of commitment and just wants some fun in her life. So she’s left her council job and moved to Milton Keynes. As you do. I changed jobs so I didn’t have to move to Milton Keynes. I also turned down a proposal from a man from Milton Keynes. But it works for Ruby. Well, sort of. I think her divorce has scarred her more than she likes to own up to but when she begins her new job in a gastro-pub, she makes friends with Charlie who provides that confidante role she’s been missing. Charlie, however, is obsessed with Gary Barlow. Way over the top. Her friend Paul is even worse. Ruby is somehow dragged into this obsession with them as they queue up to see Gary Barlow, go on Take That conventions and feed their fixation.
Meanwhile Ruby is doing other things too like scuba diving lessons, taking a fancy to the instructor Joe, involving herself in misunderstandings, having a fling with Mason, her boss at the pub who could be a bigger bounder than Simon was, and getting into all manner of difficult situations. She bounces between the two blokes without thinking anything through properly and making the right decision for herself. Joe’s a divorced father with tricky teenage children, and he sends confusing mixed messages. Mason is a s**t to be frank, but fascinates Ruby and she makes some daft choices regarding him that made me furious with her! The episode with Valerie was in particular bad taste and out of character. It didn’t fit well at all.
I am far from being a Mr Barlow fan but I did like the band when I was younger. It didn't spoil the book, but I found there were a few too many Take That and Gary Barlow references. We knew Charlie was obsessed and didn’t need reminding. She had a cardboard cut-out of the bloke for heavens’ sake! What annoyed me most were the constant references to "Nice" Paul. Just Paul would have done after the first couple of mentions! Still a happy weekend read, though.
January 9, 2018
It's been far too long since I read a Carole Matthews book and was glad I could get my teeth into this latest release. Ruby Brown is now going it alone. She lives in a granny annexe above a garage, works as a waitress at the local pub The Butchers Arms and her best friend Charlie is a crazy Take That fan. I instantly loved Ruby! A woman (not a girl child thanks Carole) who has seen a bit of life and feels like she is starting again following her recent break-up.
Mason Soames is Ruby's Boss and is every inch the typical Playboy. On the other side of the fence she strikes up a friendship with a recently seperated Joe. However Joe also comes with baggage in the form of 2 children and a spiteful ex-wife. I absolutely loved all the characters in this book. In all honesty I even loved the charactrs that were far from perfect. Ruby and Charlie's friendship was brilliant and Charlie's fan girl moments with Gary Barlow were priceless.
Carole Matthews is an author I have been reading for as many years as she has been writing and she never fails to bring new stories and characters that I love. This latest release is no different and is full of wit, humour and romance. I love the fact that towards the end of the story Carole throws in a bit of a curveball which I didn't see coming and it made a change for a 'typical;' storyline not to go to plan. It certainly made it more interesting. A thoroughly enjoyable book and one which is just as good as her others.
Mason Soames is Ruby's Boss and is every inch the typical Playboy. On the other side of the fence she strikes up a friendship with a recently seperated Joe. However Joe also comes with baggage in the form of 2 children and a spiteful ex-wife. I absolutely loved all the characters in this book. In all honesty I even loved the charactrs that were far from perfect. Ruby and Charlie's friendship was brilliant and Charlie's fan girl moments with Gary Barlow were priceless.
Carole Matthews is an author I have been reading for as many years as she has been writing and she never fails to bring new stories and characters that I love. This latest release is no different and is full of wit, humour and romance. I love the fact that towards the end of the story Carole throws in a bit of a curveball which I didn't see coming and it made a change for a 'typical;' storyline not to go to plan. It certainly made it more interesting. A thoroughly enjoyable book and one which is just as good as her others.
July 11, 2018
Without a doubt Carole Matthews always delivers a good read - she creates really likable characters who find themselves in pretty believable situations. 'Million Love Songs' takes on the story of Ruby Brown, newly divorced, trying to find her way through her new reality. She has cast off her old job, got a new hairstyle and is hoping life is going to be somewhat better moving forward. Working as a waitress in the local pub, a rather stylish place, Ruby doesn't take too long to be entangled in not one but two potential romances.
I actually would give this story four and a half stars - it isn't quite five because Ruby is actually a little annoying as a character (maybe that's her charm). She goes down a couple of paths and moans about these choices but really no one made her do these things - it was all on her and I just wanted her to have a bit of a backbone at those moments. Aside from this everything about this story is highly entertaining. Ruby's best friend, Charlie, a fellow waitress and 'Take That' fan is probably my favourite thing about the book - she is a 'real' character and I was quite impressed with her commitment to fangirling Gary Barlow.
Ms Matthews always writes with great humour and a good eye for personal interactions which is what makes her stories very engaging. There were several scenes where I thought yep, I could see myself doing that or I had to quietly guffaw (always wanted to use this word in a review) - especially when Ruby was looking up potential hobbies. The two men that Ruby finds herself attracted to couldn't be more different but I actually found it hard at times (like her) to decide which one really was the one she should try to build something more tangible with - the ending actually satisfies. This is a book well worth taking off the shelf and spending some time reading.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for the chance to read in return for an honest review.
I actually would give this story four and a half stars - it isn't quite five because Ruby is actually a little annoying as a character (maybe that's her charm). She goes down a couple of paths and moans about these choices but really no one made her do these things - it was all on her and I just wanted her to have a bit of a backbone at those moments. Aside from this everything about this story is highly entertaining. Ruby's best friend, Charlie, a fellow waitress and 'Take That' fan is probably my favourite thing about the book - she is a 'real' character and I was quite impressed with her commitment to fangirling Gary Barlow.
Ms Matthews always writes with great humour and a good eye for personal interactions which is what makes her stories very engaging. There were several scenes where I thought yep, I could see myself doing that or I had to quietly guffaw (always wanted to use this word in a review) - especially when Ruby was looking up potential hobbies. The two men that Ruby finds herself attracted to couldn't be more different but I actually found it hard at times (like her) to decide which one really was the one she should try to build something more tangible with - the ending actually satisfies. This is a book well worth taking off the shelf and spending some time reading.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for the chance to read in return for an honest review.
February 22, 2022
Well, I tried. This is the third Carole Matthews novel I've tried to read and I haven't been able to finish any of them. The story is written like a diary, in that the main character, Ruby, is having a conversation directly with the reader, and asking for support in her decisions. The story is very long with the same situations repeated over and over and Ruby keeps making the same dumb decisions again and again. The whole Gary Barlow story line for Charlie is over the top and not believable to me, but then I am not a Take That fan (actually never heard of them). Not a fan of depressing stories. I read for entertainment, a solid story line with a bit of humour thrown in, and strong, well-developed characters. That is not the case with this story.
March 20, 2022
Another fantastic read by Carole Matthews. Full of great larger than life characters, cringe worthy laugh out loud situations and so much humour throughout.
From Costa del Keynes to Paris and unexpected antics that make you howl with laughter and wince with embarrassment!!
Ruby Brown is trying to adapt to life after divorce and it’s proving harder than she thought. As 40 edges nearer in the birthday calendar Ruby feels lost in her new single status.
Unsure what path to take she gets hopelessly involved with her unreliable and unfaithful boss Mason which leads to situations and antics she could hardly of imagined……and not in a good way! And then there’s Joe her diving instructor with more complications than she’s had hot dinners, life couldn’t be more complicated.
Add a take that obsessed best friend Charlie and a cardboard cut out of Gary Barlow, a total nightmare of an ex wife for Joe two teenage kids plus two months of self discovery in Paris and the outcome is totally entertaining.
Definitely recommended an excellent feel good read, total escapism.
From Costa del Keynes to Paris and unexpected antics that make you howl with laughter and wince with embarrassment!!
Ruby Brown is trying to adapt to life after divorce and it’s proving harder than she thought. As 40 edges nearer in the birthday calendar Ruby feels lost in her new single status.
Unsure what path to take she gets hopelessly involved with her unreliable and unfaithful boss Mason which leads to situations and antics she could hardly of imagined……and not in a good way! And then there’s Joe her diving instructor with more complications than she’s had hot dinners, life couldn’t be more complicated.
Add a take that obsessed best friend Charlie and a cardboard cut out of Gary Barlow, a total nightmare of an ex wife for Joe two teenage kids plus two months of self discovery in Paris and the outcome is totally entertaining.
Definitely recommended an excellent feel good read, total escapism.
July 1, 2018
In tijden van verhuizen, heb ik boeken nodig waar ik gewoon een paar minuten in kan duiken, niet hard nadenken, ontspannen voor t slapen gaan. Dan is Carole Matthews ideaal! Ik las er verschillende en allemaal hebben ze initieel niet zoveel om het lijf, maar toch blijven de karakters wel wat hangen, ondanks de vaak erg voorspelbare verhaallijn. Ontspanning dus, niks meer.
October 28, 2019
This book has just become one of my favourite! I devoured this in a few sittings. A fun, romantic comedy of love, laughs, friendships and some sexual misadventure. If I ever find myself in a granny annexe following a divorce, I hope my heartbreak is half as much fun! A lovely book to read. Fans of Lynsey Kelk will definitely love this!
April 24, 2018
As always Carole Matthews has wrote another absolutely brilliant book. I was hooked from page one right up until the last page.
It made me laugh out loud and cry. I loved all the Character's especially the main character Ruby Brown.
All in all I thoroughly enjoyed it and can't wait to read her next book.
It made me laugh out loud and cry. I loved all the Character's especially the main character Ruby Brown.
All in all I thoroughly enjoyed it and can't wait to read her next book.
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