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For Once in My Life
Twenty-nine-year-old Lily Buckley planned to be happily married and in her dream job by now. Instead she’s been single since being left at the altar three years ago, and works at her local paper, writing about giant vegetables at the village fete and a dog who looks exactly like Chewbacca.Not quite what she was dreaming of.So when Lily’s given the opportunity to write her own column it’s exactly what she’s always wanted – except what she has to write about. She has to do one thing every week that scares her. With encouragement from sexy colleague – and adrenalin-junkie – Christopher , Lily agrees. From sky-diving to haunted houses, Lily is going to be pushed to her limit. But Lily is hiding something – the thing that she fears the most of all…Ever since her heart was broken Lily has been afraid of falling in love again. Will fear hold her back once more – or can Christopher help her to finally find happiness? An uplifting, feel-good story about friendship, romance, and finding the hero inside yourself. Fans of Marian Keyes, Mhairi McFarlane and Sophie Kinsella will love Colleen Coleman! ‘I don't think I have laughed, chuckled, and smiled so much at a book before… I adored it. ’ Goodreads reviewer‘ OMG, OMG, OMG I love this book!… Laugh out loud… Hilarious. ’ Chelle’s Book Reviews ‘ Absolutely fantastic! ’ Stardust Book Reviews ‘ I was in need of a smile and a pick-me-up and this gave it in spades. I loved it… For a really heart-warming, uplifting read with a smile, you can’t go far wrong.’ Nicki’s Book Blog ‘ Ohhhhhhhhhhh this author doesn't disappoint! ... I was able to lose myself in every word… Everything I could want from a book and more, deserving a rating of the entire amount of stars in the universe.’ The Writing Garnet ‘ Inspiring and entertaining … I loved watching every step of the journey… I am very eager to see what else this talented author will write.’ Rachel’s Random Reads ‘ I love the feeling when you’ve read just the first few chapters of a novel and you just know this is going to be a read you’re going to enjoy until the very last page … A warm-hearted, feel-good and simply great read that I didn’t want to put down.’ A Spoonful of Happy Endings ‘ Colleen Coleman has done it again! ... I read this book in one go… Highly recommended. ’ Goodreads reviewer
262 pages, Paperback
First published November 16, 2018
2157 people are currently reading
1591 people want to read
About the author
Colleen Coleman
9 books145 followersColleen Coleman is an Irish- Canadian novelist. She is the winner of the much-coveted Novelicious Undiscovered People’s Choice Award which launched to find the next ‘chick-lit star’. She spent over ten years working as a teacher of English and Philosophy before finally taking a deep breath, scrunching her eyes shut, putting her pen to paper and vowing not to lift it again until she wrote the words The End. As a result, her first novel was born. Colleen lives between London, Ireland and Cyprus with her very patient husband and very chatty twin daughters. Don't Stop Me Now is her first book and will be released in February.
About Don't Stop Me Now....I sat beside a girl on an aeroplane, we started chatting and over five hours we emptied the Easyjet mini-bar of JD and coke, ate our baggage allowance in crisps and by the time we landed, tipsy and yet still ravenous, we knew each others’ life stories. She was super-bright, kind, funny, beautiful - but what really struck me was that she was a psychologist yet her own head was all over the place! She seemed to have a blindspot when it came to her own ‘issues’ and I found this apparent paradox fascinating.
As I hugged her goodbye at the arrivals lounge, I just knew I’d met someone very special and I had the first chapter of DSMN scribbled down by the time I went to bed that night.
About Don't Stop Me Now....I sat beside a girl on an aeroplane, we started chatting and over five hours we emptied the Easyjet mini-bar of JD and coke, ate our baggage allowance in crisps and by the time we landed, tipsy and yet still ravenous, we knew each others’ life stories. She was super-bright, kind, funny, beautiful - but what really struck me was that she was a psychologist yet her own head was all over the place! She seemed to have a blindspot when it came to her own ‘issues’ and I found this apparent paradox fascinating.
As I hugged her goodbye at the arrivals lounge, I just knew I’d met someone very special and I had the first chapter of DSMN scribbled down by the time I went to bed that night.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 223 reviews
November 20, 2018
Whenever I want to read a book that will make me laugh, feel inspired and leave me in a total feel good mood, I know I can count on Colleen Coleman. There’s always something empowering about her books, she writes about relatable women who go on these fun journeys of self discovery and never fail to lift me up.
This begins on Lily’s wedding day when she is left at the altar in an utterly humiliating fashion. Fast forward three years and while Lily believes she’s happy and satisfied with her life, she really isn’t. She’s stuck in a rut, her life is like Groundhog Day and I think we can all relate to that on some level. When she gets assigned to write a series of articles about her going on bucket list adventures she sets off on an unexpected path that may just lead to a life change and some much needed romance.
The developing relationship between Lily and Christopher was adorable and sweet and most importantly, realistic. It wasn’t love at first sight perfection but instead was genuine and believable. Per usual, this had great messages about taking risks and not being afraid to just live your life. While the romance was important to the story, it was more of a subplot with the main focus on Lily herself and how she grew as a person. Recommended for anyone wanting a happy read that makes you want to get out in the world and just enjoy life.
For Once In My Life in three words: Delightful, Inspiring and Positive.
This begins on Lily’s wedding day when she is left at the altar in an utterly humiliating fashion. Fast forward three years and while Lily believes she’s happy and satisfied with her life, she really isn’t. She’s stuck in a rut, her life is like Groundhog Day and I think we can all relate to that on some level. When she gets assigned to write a series of articles about her going on bucket list adventures she sets off on an unexpected path that may just lead to a life change and some much needed romance.
The developing relationship between Lily and Christopher was adorable and sweet and most importantly, realistic. It wasn’t love at first sight perfection but instead was genuine and believable. Per usual, this had great messages about taking risks and not being afraid to just live your life. While the romance was important to the story, it was more of a subplot with the main focus on Lily herself and how she grew as a person. Recommended for anyone wanting a happy read that makes you want to get out in the world and just enjoy life.
For Once In My Life in three words: Delightful, Inspiring and Positive.
April 2, 2019
I am kicking myself for not reading this sooner. Well, you know what they say . . . better late than never. But one thing is for sure; Colleen Coleman has got a very devoted fan.
So what are the bits I loved? Absolutely everything -- the language, story, characters and the inspiration that emits from each and every page. Seriously, if you are on a writing slump, this book will surely guide you back to your desk. As Lily takes charge of her life and also her role as the new editor of the newspaper with each article, we feel that itch to transfer something to the paper along with her. Her columns are great by the way. They are funny, personal and evocative of the challenge she has gone through.
While Lily encounters her past demons with each challenge set as inspirations for her columns, it is hard not to be uplifted. In spite of all the misfortunes she has suffered, fate is finally offering her a chance. So pick it up guys, to know how she meets it head-on.
So what are the bits I loved? Absolutely everything -- the language, story, characters and the inspiration that emits from each and every page. Seriously, if you are on a writing slump, this book will surely guide you back to your desk. As Lily takes charge of her life and also her role as the new editor of the newspaper with each article, we feel that itch to transfer something to the paper along with her. Her columns are great by the way. They are funny, personal and evocative of the challenge she has gone through.
While Lily encounters her past demons with each challenge set as inspirations for her columns, it is hard not to be uplifted. In spite of all the misfortunes she has suffered, fate is finally offering her a chance. So pick it up guys, to know how she meets it head-on.
November 7, 2018
I was a bit disappointed in how this novel turned out. From the description I hoped this would be about a spunky journalist that takes the world by storm with her ideas and develops a hot relationship with her co-worker. I expected a rom-com and got a very lukewarm story about a woman who gets jilted by her fiance and takes the initiative to save her job while completing a bucket list. I didn't laugh once nor was impressed with her adventures. The story just filled the pages with mindless babble and her interaction with the consultant felt more like a friendship than romance.
Disappointing.
I received this ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Disappointing.
I received this ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 27, 2018
Quickly I realized this book is not for me.I had a really tough time following this story. I did not connect with the characters or the story line for that matter. Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for this complimentary book. All opinions expressed are my own.
October 10, 2022
"...when it feels most scary to jump, that's exactly the right time. Because if you don't, you've let your fear own you. And if you do that, you'll end up letting it rule you again and again and then you'll never be the strongest person you can be."
November 8, 2018
I was really looking forward to starting this novel, I wanted something a bit different to what I usually read and this fit the bill perfectly. The cover is bright and so eye catching. I love the colours used, the stars really stand out, and it kind of shows you that the main character of this story will be going on some sort of journey. It doesn't give too much away but it gives you some sort of indication as to what the story is all about.
I didn't read Colleen's other novel, and after finishing this one I have no idea why! I really need to start broadening what I read because as many of you know, you should never judge a book by it's cover! This book follows main character Lily who works at her local newspaper, Lily had always loved her job - until Gareth took over and took all the fun out of it that is. But when Gareth suddenly leaves, Lily is able to finally get her chance to shine and when head office puts forward that she starts her own weekly column, she jumps at the chance.
The only catch is that she needs to do something weekly that scares her. From skydiving, to completing a crazy assault course. However, Lily is determined not to be beaten on this one and goes along with it. Although she wouldn't have gotten through it without friendly consultant Christopher, that has been hired to keep an eye on the paper and help turn it around. Along the way, Lily and Christopher grow close. But with Lily hiding away from her feelings, the big question is whether she can finally put the past behind her and put love first.
I have to say, it was a little slow to begin with. There was a lot of Lily basically talking at us, describing this and that and it was a lot of description. However, having said that, when Lily starts this bucket list, that's when things get interesting and I started to really enjoy it. So if you're feeling the same, don't give up! It gets so good to the point where you can't put it down - so keep going! Just like Lily. I found myself really relating to Lily because I feel that in some way we have quite a bit in common. I am the same, I love wrapping up and being all cosy and settling down to read a good book. But as Lily says in this novel, it's all about doing what you love isn't it? Sometimes we all must get to a point where we question whether what we do in our life is making us truly happy, and what we can do to change that if it's not. I just feel that this book was really relatable and I think it will relate to a lot of different and various readers too.
Overall, a really interesting and refreshing read. It was lighthearted and so enjoyable to read but there's a deep meaning of grabbing life by the hands and the feeling of belonging which really pushed this book into becoming one of my favourites of the year. A lot of what Lily said really resonated with me and made me really think! I will certainly be keeping an eye out for more novels from Colleen Coleman in the future that's for sure! And I am now the proud owner of 3 of her other novels. Thank you to the publisher for a chance to read this novel, which I have reviewed honestly.
I didn't read Colleen's other novel, and after finishing this one I have no idea why! I really need to start broadening what I read because as many of you know, you should never judge a book by it's cover! This book follows main character Lily who works at her local newspaper, Lily had always loved her job - until Gareth took over and took all the fun out of it that is. But when Gareth suddenly leaves, Lily is able to finally get her chance to shine and when head office puts forward that she starts her own weekly column, she jumps at the chance.
The only catch is that she needs to do something weekly that scares her. From skydiving, to completing a crazy assault course. However, Lily is determined not to be beaten on this one and goes along with it. Although she wouldn't have gotten through it without friendly consultant Christopher, that has been hired to keep an eye on the paper and help turn it around. Along the way, Lily and Christopher grow close. But with Lily hiding away from her feelings, the big question is whether she can finally put the past behind her and put love first.
I have to say, it was a little slow to begin with. There was a lot of Lily basically talking at us, describing this and that and it was a lot of description. However, having said that, when Lily starts this bucket list, that's when things get interesting and I started to really enjoy it. So if you're feeling the same, don't give up! It gets so good to the point where you can't put it down - so keep going! Just like Lily. I found myself really relating to Lily because I feel that in some way we have quite a bit in common. I am the same, I love wrapping up and being all cosy and settling down to read a good book. But as Lily says in this novel, it's all about doing what you love isn't it? Sometimes we all must get to a point where we question whether what we do in our life is making us truly happy, and what we can do to change that if it's not. I just feel that this book was really relatable and I think it will relate to a lot of different and various readers too.
Overall, a really interesting and refreshing read. It was lighthearted and so enjoyable to read but there's a deep meaning of grabbing life by the hands and the feeling of belonging which really pushed this book into becoming one of my favourites of the year. A lot of what Lily said really resonated with me and made me really think! I will certainly be keeping an eye out for more novels from Colleen Coleman in the future that's for sure! And I am now the proud owner of 3 of her other novels. Thank you to the publisher for a chance to read this novel, which I have reviewed honestly.
November 20, 2018
Sometimes you don't know how covers connect with contents with this one is a perfect choice. You can see that the main character Lily is on a long and very winding road. The question is : will she finds what she is hoping and looking for? The answer can be found in the book, of course, but I am not going to reveal it. You will have to find out for yourself.
This story is about thinking you had it all and being very disappointed. It's about losing the ability to trust people and hiding yourself, about learning to live again and and letting go of the fear of getting hurt.
The book made me laugh out loud and made my heart melt. Love, laughter, sadness, disappointment are some of the emotions the story is build on. The author has a way of making you listen to what she has to say. I enjoyed it very much.
Thank you, Colleen Coleman, Bookouture and Netgalley.
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
This story is about thinking you had it all and being very disappointed. It's about losing the ability to trust people and hiding yourself, about learning to live again and and letting go of the fear of getting hurt.
The book made me laugh out loud and made my heart melt. Love, laughter, sadness, disappointment are some of the emotions the story is build on. The author has a way of making you listen to what she has to say. I enjoyed it very much.
Thank you, Colleen Coleman, Bookouture and Netgalley.
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
February 23, 2020
Couldn’t connect to the main character. It was very wordy as well
October 11, 2018
Thank you so much NegGalley for the ARC . This book was unexpected . I enjoyed the ride . I laughed out loud and cried while reading it . I felt so many emotion . This book was about Lily’s decision to take her life and happiness into her own hands. Forgiveness and life lesson . I love her relationship with her Mum at the end . I’m so glad that she found her life partner.
November 20, 2018
All reviews can be found on my blog at https://thewritinggarnet.wordpress.com
Move over Beyonce, there’s a new sassy lady in town!!
Lily has never felt….good enough. She’s never felt….worthy. She has never felt like she belongs. Ever since she had her heart smashed into a pulp, Lily decided to take the number 20 bus to ‘I’ll never fall in love again’. Some of you might be familiar with it. Hell, some of you might even be familiar with Lily’s feelings. Haven’t we all felt like that at one point in our lives? I certainly have! I’ve never felt good enough for anyone, I’ve never felt worthy, and recently thanks to my character being tarnished, I feel like I cannot be myself. Just like Lily. I’ll be honest – I didn’t want to relate to her. I didn’t want to find myself nodding along when she expressed her thoughts and feelings, purely because of the negativity that is shown towards people who don’t feel good enough. I’m sure you’ll understand if you have been in that position.
Anyway, sorry, I’m veering off a little. With no wedding to plan, no honeymoon to embark on, and no pitter patter of tiny feet coming her way, Lily threw herself into her job only to watch her safety net fall down around her. Well, do you honestly think that she would have let that happen?
For once in HER life, Lily embarks on tasks which scare the bejeezus out of her so that she can then write about it for her colomn. A work type bucket list if you will. Bonkers? Perhaps. Thought provoking? Definitely! I know and you know that Lily could have easily turned round and told her colleagues where to go, but she didn’t. She took their ideas, grabbed them by their youknowwhats and gave it her all despite being scared shizzleless. It was as though Lily was sticking two fingers up to the person who wronged her several years ago, by showing them that she didn’t need them in her life to actually live it. It’s one thing to sit there and think about doing adrenanlin inducing things, but it’s a completely different ball game to go and actually do them and to allow yourself to be proud of your own accomplishments.
At the start of the book, Lily was a very guarded and unsure type of character. A person who wanted her loved ones to be happy before she even made herself happy. A person who, deep down, knew she was worth more than she gave herself credit for, but had absolutely no idea how to believe it herself. But, by the time I reached the end of the story, I had watched Lily grow and flourish before my very own eyes and yes, I actually felt quite emotional watching that happen because I had had faith in her from the beginning.
Colleen Coleman doesn’t just write novels which make me snort attractively like a pig wearing a bow, nor does she just write books which are laced with copious amounts of sassy wit. No. She writes novels from the heart, speaking to her readers through relatable situations with relatable characters, and boy does she do it brilliantly.
‘For Once in My Life’ is a brilliant, life-affirming novel which is guaranteed to give you a kick up the toosh when it comes to having faith in yourself and what you deserve. I thought the whole concept with Christopher was very, very clever, and I loved how it all came together so naturally as though it was meant to happen all along.
I’ve said it already, but I’ll say it again; move over Beyonce!! Lily is about to steal your sassy crown! Wow – the sass alone is enough to re-ignite fire in bellies, that’s for sure!
Colleen Coleman never disappoints – in actual fact she gets better and better with every new release!
I loooooooooved it and everything it stood for. Poignant, hilarious, sassy, thoughtful, heart-warming – an all round belter of a book! Amazing!
Move over Beyonce, there’s a new sassy lady in town!!
Lily has never felt….good enough. She’s never felt….worthy. She has never felt like she belongs. Ever since she had her heart smashed into a pulp, Lily decided to take the number 20 bus to ‘I’ll never fall in love again’. Some of you might be familiar with it. Hell, some of you might even be familiar with Lily’s feelings. Haven’t we all felt like that at one point in our lives? I certainly have! I’ve never felt good enough for anyone, I’ve never felt worthy, and recently thanks to my character being tarnished, I feel like I cannot be myself. Just like Lily. I’ll be honest – I didn’t want to relate to her. I didn’t want to find myself nodding along when she expressed her thoughts and feelings, purely because of the negativity that is shown towards people who don’t feel good enough. I’m sure you’ll understand if you have been in that position.
Anyway, sorry, I’m veering off a little. With no wedding to plan, no honeymoon to embark on, and no pitter patter of tiny feet coming her way, Lily threw herself into her job only to watch her safety net fall down around her. Well, do you honestly think that she would have let that happen?
For once in HER life, Lily embarks on tasks which scare the bejeezus out of her so that she can then write about it for her colomn. A work type bucket list if you will. Bonkers? Perhaps. Thought provoking? Definitely! I know and you know that Lily could have easily turned round and told her colleagues where to go, but she didn’t. She took their ideas, grabbed them by their youknowwhats and gave it her all despite being scared shizzleless. It was as though Lily was sticking two fingers up to the person who wronged her several years ago, by showing them that she didn’t need them in her life to actually live it. It’s one thing to sit there and think about doing adrenanlin inducing things, but it’s a completely different ball game to go and actually do them and to allow yourself to be proud of your own accomplishments.
At the start of the book, Lily was a very guarded and unsure type of character. A person who wanted her loved ones to be happy before she even made herself happy. A person who, deep down, knew she was worth more than she gave herself credit for, but had absolutely no idea how to believe it herself. But, by the time I reached the end of the story, I had watched Lily grow and flourish before my very own eyes and yes, I actually felt quite emotional watching that happen because I had had faith in her from the beginning.
Colleen Coleman doesn’t just write novels which make me snort attractively like a pig wearing a bow, nor does she just write books which are laced with copious amounts of sassy wit. No. She writes novels from the heart, speaking to her readers through relatable situations with relatable characters, and boy does she do it brilliantly.
‘For Once in My Life’ is a brilliant, life-affirming novel which is guaranteed to give you a kick up the toosh when it comes to having faith in yourself and what you deserve. I thought the whole concept with Christopher was very, very clever, and I loved how it all came together so naturally as though it was meant to happen all along.
I’ve said it already, but I’ll say it again; move over Beyonce!! Lily is about to steal your sassy crown! Wow – the sass alone is enough to re-ignite fire in bellies, that’s for sure!
Colleen Coleman never disappoints – in actual fact she gets better and better with every new release!
I loooooooooved it and everything it stood for. Poignant, hilarious, sassy, thoughtful, heart-warming – an all round belter of a book! Amazing!
November 5, 2018
I like cute and cozy books that take place in little English towns, I really do. I usually intersperse thrillers and more literary works with meet-cute women's fiction and have often been delighted. But this slow-moving novel's heroine was just...vanilla. So very vanilla.
We meet Lily as she's getting jilted at the altar and immediately fast-forward several years to Lily being promoted to Editor in Chief of the town newspaper and tasked with having to grow readership and revenue. There is so much internal dialogue and description of events - skydiving, an obstacle course, a night in a 'haunted' hotel etc - that the growth and description of every character but Lily gets lost. Even the romance between Lily and the consultant, Christopher, and the complicated relationship with her rockstar mother fail to liven the book up. Some of her colleagues seemed interesting and it would have been great to have had more scenes and dialogue with them than Lily's thoughts and conversations with her cat.
I have a hard time with not finishing books, especially books where nothing is wrong per-say, but I can advise against this particular one. There are just too many in this genre that tug at the heart more than For Once In My Life.
Thanks to Netgalley for this preview!
We meet Lily as she's getting jilted at the altar and immediately fast-forward several years to Lily being promoted to Editor in Chief of the town newspaper and tasked with having to grow readership and revenue. There is so much internal dialogue and description of events - skydiving, an obstacle course, a night in a 'haunted' hotel etc - that the growth and description of every character but Lily gets lost. Even the romance between Lily and the consultant, Christopher, and the complicated relationship with her rockstar mother fail to liven the book up. Some of her colleagues seemed interesting and it would have been great to have had more scenes and dialogue with them than Lily's thoughts and conversations with her cat.
I have a hard time with not finishing books, especially books where nothing is wrong per-say, but I can advise against this particular one. There are just too many in this genre that tug at the heart more than For Once In My Life.
Thanks to Netgalley for this preview!
February 16, 2019
Lily's life is feeling a bit stagnant, it is three years since she was jilted at the altar for her best friend and she definitely doesn't want to move on in another relationship and risk that hurt again, but her work on the newspaper is also dull with nothing exciting to report on. Then Chris is brought in to help save the paper....... can Lily rise to the challenge of reporting on her own stunts...... and what about Chris himself can she dare to feel again!
Another enjoyable book by this author, there was plenty of laughter and I found the character of Lily really grew on me.......although at first I was thinking get on with it three years is plenty of time to get over it! Overall a good lighthearted read.
Another enjoyable book by this author, there was plenty of laughter and I found the character of Lily really grew on me.......although at first I was thinking get on with it three years is plenty of time to get over it! Overall a good lighthearted read.
January 8, 2019
My first book by Colleen Coleman and I was not disappointed! We follow Lily who somehow finds herself Editor in Chief of the failing newspaper at which she works. Lily is tasked with increasing sales for the newspaper and she goes about it by starting a bucket list blog which starts with a skydive. The way in which the blog is written was simply stunning. I absolutely loved the sense of unity and togetherness of Lily’s colleagues, such a lovely real working environment. I won’t give away any spoilers but there’s twists, turns, humour and a bit of romance which all thrown in together make one excellent book. Highly recommended if you are looking for a feel good story.
September 25, 2025
Such a beautifully written book! An inspiring story about taking chances, overcoming one’s own demons, and finding love in the process. I enjoyed every second reading this.
December 7, 2025
pretty good! more like 2.5 for me but I liked the messaging and that the our main character had a self love and healing journey that didn’t require a man. the bucket list items were fun. easy beachy read.
November 22, 2018
Please see all of my reviews on my blog at www.robinlovesreading.com.
My Rating: 4.5 Stars
Lily Buckley has spent the last three years getting over a tragic and humiliating experience. She was left at the altar and has rebuilt her life. She has been at her job at the Newbridge Gazette for seven years. Things gets shaky for Lily yet again. The newspaper is floundering. As a matter fact, it may just close down. But another chance presents itself. Lily suddenly becomes acting editor in chief of the regional newspaper.
Things are certainly not cut and dried from this point on. Not at all. The powers that be have hired a team of people that includes Christopher, and he is a transformational consultant. The newspaper has a single shot of sinking or swimming. Ultimately it must be determined whether or not Lily and Christopher can work together to save the newspaper. For Lily’s sake it is to keep her job and career going in the direction that she has been focused on. For Christopher, this is a steppingstone to his future aspirations.
Quite naturally, the entire scope of Lily’s job has changed. Christopher and the team decide on a unique approach to reviving the newspaper. Lily’s weekly column will now become a four page spread with a bucket list in which tasks are completed weekly. They are extremely hopeful that this will increase readership.
Lily may be focused on the importance of saving her career, but her eyes are now open to new possibilities, and this was truly a delight. Lily experiences quite a lot while working on her bucket list. This required her to do things that she would never have tried before. While there is humor in the story, even at laugh out loud places, the story is rich with sensitivity and growth. We see the characters develop in certain ways and that makes the story very captivating.
As readers are drawn into the romance that blossoms between Lily and Christopher, it is also a very touching to see how Lily’s relationship with her mother changes. I was very interested in things as they were working out. If I may interject, I must say I was impressed by the fact that one of Lily’s favorite activities was to curl up with a good book..
I rather enjoyed how this book is marketed. It is first a woman’s fiction, then a romance. I think this is important to mention because we get to see Lily grow as a character. Yes, lovers of romance want a happy ending. But Lily’s life was once turned upside down and getting the opportunity to see her achieve personal growth was very rewarding to me as a reader. The cherry on top was the romance that was indeed part of the story.
This is the first book that I’ve had the opportunity to read by Colleen Coleman and I can definitely say that she is an author that I will follow in the future.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC to review in exchange for an honest opinion.
My Rating: 4.5 Stars
Lily Buckley has spent the last three years getting over a tragic and humiliating experience. She was left at the altar and has rebuilt her life. She has been at her job at the Newbridge Gazette for seven years. Things gets shaky for Lily yet again. The newspaper is floundering. As a matter fact, it may just close down. But another chance presents itself. Lily suddenly becomes acting editor in chief of the regional newspaper.
Things are certainly not cut and dried from this point on. Not at all. The powers that be have hired a team of people that includes Christopher, and he is a transformational consultant. The newspaper has a single shot of sinking or swimming. Ultimately it must be determined whether or not Lily and Christopher can work together to save the newspaper. For Lily’s sake it is to keep her job and career going in the direction that she has been focused on. For Christopher, this is a steppingstone to his future aspirations.
Quite naturally, the entire scope of Lily’s job has changed. Christopher and the team decide on a unique approach to reviving the newspaper. Lily’s weekly column will now become a four page spread with a bucket list in which tasks are completed weekly. They are extremely hopeful that this will increase readership.
Lily may be focused on the importance of saving her career, but her eyes are now open to new possibilities, and this was truly a delight. Lily experiences quite a lot while working on her bucket list. This required her to do things that she would never have tried before. While there is humor in the story, even at laugh out loud places, the story is rich with sensitivity and growth. We see the characters develop in certain ways and that makes the story very captivating.
As readers are drawn into the romance that blossoms between Lily and Christopher, it is also a very touching to see how Lily’s relationship with her mother changes. I was very interested in things as they were working out. If I may interject, I must say I was impressed by the fact that one of Lily’s favorite activities was to curl up with a good book..
I rather enjoyed how this book is marketed. It is first a woman’s fiction, then a romance. I think this is important to mention because we get to see Lily grow as a character. Yes, lovers of romance want a happy ending. But Lily’s life was once turned upside down and getting the opportunity to see her achieve personal growth was very rewarding to me as a reader. The cherry on top was the romance that was indeed part of the story.
This is the first book that I’ve had the opportunity to read by Colleen Coleman and I can definitely say that she is an author that I will follow in the future.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC to review in exchange for an honest opinion.
December 8, 2018
I took a chance with this title and I’m glad I did. I’ll be honest, though I had a great time reading the book (and am pleased to say it held my interest start-to-finish), this wasn’t a book that stuck with me, even just a few weeks after reading.
For the mini review and more, head over to The Pretty Good Gatsby!
For the mini review and more, head over to The Pretty Good Gatsby!
September 16, 2019
I was on struggle street trying to get through this novel - the characters were painful and i really expected much more spunk out of it all based on the description. Such a shame.
Thank you to the publisher for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to the publisher for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 20, 2018
For Once in My Life, Colleen Coleman
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: Romance, Women's Fiction
Ah no, not another Women's Fiction :-( I hate the way we rule out 50% of potential readers with this discriminatory genre...
Having got that out – well, a wonderful read. I adored Lily and her friends. After being left at the alter she's thrown herself into her job, really enjoys the way the local paper she writes for is part of the community. She's battling the Editor though, when his predecessor left he's been onto cost cutting articles and increasing ads and they are losing readers rapidly.
Then after a quick visit from HQ she's made editor temporarily, with a short time to bring sales up or the paper closes. HQ have left Christopher to help her, he wants a bigger role in the company and this is his test, help Lily pull things up. They come up with Buckley's Bucket List, something adrenaline filled and adventurous Lily will do each week.
I love the way the team all pull together, clearly they think well of Lily but until now none of them really act as a unit, as friends, but now Lily has them so full of ideas and enthusiasm. I enjoyed seeing how the List become profitable for the paper, not just from the column increasing readers, but from the tie ins with local producers bringing sponsorship and ads, and how now the staff felt now that their input was valued they had such great ideas.
It was also interesting to see how a paper bases news outlet coped with becoming a paper and online outlet, and how lily relished the interaction with readers. It all felt very real.
Of course Chris is gorgeous, good looking, ambitious and kind, he really helps Lily when she's struggling with the challenges, and the attraction between them was very real feeling. Still, the course of True Love n'eer did run smooth and all that, and just when things are going well they suddenly aren't.
There are some great characters here, some fabulous humour and an enjoyable romance. Its as much about learning ourselves as romance though, with Lily's situation with her work, family and love life paralleling that of so many of us. I'd have liked a stronger side of romance but that's just me....its a perfect story as it is, though it's unlikely to be a re-reader for me because of the subtle romance angle.
Stars: five, a wonderful, fun filled story.
ARC supplied by Netgalley and publishers
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: Romance, Women's Fiction
Ah no, not another Women's Fiction :-( I hate the way we rule out 50% of potential readers with this discriminatory genre...
Having got that out – well, a wonderful read. I adored Lily and her friends. After being left at the alter she's thrown herself into her job, really enjoys the way the local paper she writes for is part of the community. She's battling the Editor though, when his predecessor left he's been onto cost cutting articles and increasing ads and they are losing readers rapidly.
Then after a quick visit from HQ she's made editor temporarily, with a short time to bring sales up or the paper closes. HQ have left Christopher to help her, he wants a bigger role in the company and this is his test, help Lily pull things up. They come up with Buckley's Bucket List, something adrenaline filled and adventurous Lily will do each week.
I love the way the team all pull together, clearly they think well of Lily but until now none of them really act as a unit, as friends, but now Lily has them so full of ideas and enthusiasm. I enjoyed seeing how the List become profitable for the paper, not just from the column increasing readers, but from the tie ins with local producers bringing sponsorship and ads, and how now the staff felt now that their input was valued they had such great ideas.
It was also interesting to see how a paper bases news outlet coped with becoming a paper and online outlet, and how lily relished the interaction with readers. It all felt very real.
Of course Chris is gorgeous, good looking, ambitious and kind, he really helps Lily when she's struggling with the challenges, and the attraction between them was very real feeling. Still, the course of True Love n'eer did run smooth and all that, and just when things are going well they suddenly aren't.
There are some great characters here, some fabulous humour and an enjoyable romance. Its as much about learning ourselves as romance though, with Lily's situation with her work, family and love life paralleling that of so many of us. I'd have liked a stronger side of romance but that's just me....its a perfect story as it is, though it's unlikely to be a re-reader for me because of the subtle romance angle.
Stars: five, a wonderful, fun filled story.
ARC supplied by Netgalley and publishers
November 18, 2018
At the start of the book Lily is getting ready for her wedding day only things don’t go to plan and just as she reaches the alter she finds out that her fiancé Adam has been having an affair with her best friend Hannah. Finding this out knocked her confidence and her belief that she could be happy so she buried herself in her career as a reporter for the local paper. When she is thrust into the role of Editor in Chief she finds herself working hard to save the paper and keep her career and life on track.
I liked Lily, despite what life had thrown at her (including a high maintenance absent mother) she has a determination to see things through and make them succeed. She had a knack of making all of the staff at the paper feel valued and gave them the belief they could do anything. Her complete and utter melt down as she prepared for the first of her bucket list challenges devised to save the paper had me chuckling as to be honest I could understand where she was coming from…. You will have to read for yourself exactly what that challenge and the other 3 actually are but I loved the idea of 2 and 3 and could totally see myself doing them. Rather than brushing over them Colleen Coleman took you along for the ride so you got to see both the good and the bad in each challenge and I think that’s why I could see myself giving them a go and I have come to the conclusion that everyone should have a bucket list of things that will challenge them.
As she finally understands her relationship with her mother she is able to truly let go of the past and take that final risk that could cost her something far worse that her job but alternatively might give her something far better. Sometimes there are things in life worth taking the risk for, it’s just a case of are you brave enough to take that risk.
This is definitely a light and fun read and one well worth curling up on the sofa and ignoring everything else. Not having read any books by this author before but only having heard good things I was not disappointed and will certainly keep an eye out for future reads.
I liked Lily, despite what life had thrown at her (including a high maintenance absent mother) she has a determination to see things through and make them succeed. She had a knack of making all of the staff at the paper feel valued and gave them the belief they could do anything. Her complete and utter melt down as she prepared for the first of her bucket list challenges devised to save the paper had me chuckling as to be honest I could understand where she was coming from…. You will have to read for yourself exactly what that challenge and the other 3 actually are but I loved the idea of 2 and 3 and could totally see myself doing them. Rather than brushing over them Colleen Coleman took you along for the ride so you got to see both the good and the bad in each challenge and I think that’s why I could see myself giving them a go and I have come to the conclusion that everyone should have a bucket list of things that will challenge them.
As she finally understands her relationship with her mother she is able to truly let go of the past and take that final risk that could cost her something far worse that her job but alternatively might give her something far better. Sometimes there are things in life worth taking the risk for, it’s just a case of are you brave enough to take that risk.
This is definitely a light and fun read and one well worth curling up on the sofa and ignoring everything else. Not having read any books by this author before but only having heard good things I was not disappointed and will certainly keep an eye out for future reads.
November 21, 2018
I needed this book. I love reading books where the main story is about the MC rising up and making changes and this is what Lily does here! Ok, so she’s a little of a control freak at the beginning, planning her wedding to the T. When it all falls apart and all she has is her job and cottage and her books and three years on she believes she is ok. Then there are problems at work and here Lily puts her big girl pants on steps up and shines so bright.
To save the Gazette she has to do a bucket list, the Buckley Bucket List, put herself out of that comfort zone! I loved this bucket list as some of the things are on my list and Shankely Hall, Yes and please!!
This is my first outing with this author, and looking back she likes to name her novels with some titles and so much so I was singing in my head ‘For Once In My Life’ for the majority of it! I warmed instantly to Lily, her fears and her dreams and loved being able to sit in the front row and watch her learn and grow and achieve her dreams.
I found so much inspiration with this book, to go after your dreams and what you believe in, and I adore books like this they spur you and want you to go out and achieve things! And this takes the lead over the romance subplot of the novel which was just as cute and I love how Lily and Christopher spurred each other on. I have to shout out to Mary from the book, the detective and I loved her scenes with her trusty post-it notes.
If you want to read something the feel-good factor, that will make you chuckle, then look no further. It is easy to lose yourself in this book and smile throughout.
To save the Gazette she has to do a bucket list, the Buckley Bucket List, put herself out of that comfort zone! I loved this bucket list as some of the things are on my list and Shankely Hall, Yes and please!!
This is my first outing with this author, and looking back she likes to name her novels with some titles and so much so I was singing in my head ‘For Once In My Life’ for the majority of it! I warmed instantly to Lily, her fears and her dreams and loved being able to sit in the front row and watch her learn and grow and achieve her dreams.
I found so much inspiration with this book, to go after your dreams and what you believe in, and I adore books like this they spur you and want you to go out and achieve things! And this takes the lead over the romance subplot of the novel which was just as cute and I love how Lily and Christopher spurred each other on. I have to shout out to Mary from the book, the detective and I loved her scenes with her trusty post-it notes.
If you want to read something the feel-good factor, that will make you chuckle, then look no further. It is easy to lose yourself in this book and smile throughout.
April 2, 2020
A fun, uplifting rom-com about a woman finding her place in the world and facing her fears - entertaining!
Read my full review:
https://bookbybook.blogspot.com/2020/...
Read my full review:
https://bookbybook.blogspot.com/2020/...
July 10, 2022
A fun might easy read. I’m really loving the ones set in small town English villages lately. Tea, biscuits, manners and slower pace of life all sounding wonderful! Cute story about going after your bucket list.
Read
September 28, 2023Very sweet story. Perfect travel novel!
March 20, 2024
Good story though quite slow-paced. Some inappropriate parts that are as usual, unnecessary, and to be skipped. I wish the ending was a bit better.
November 17, 2024
Not my favorite, felt a bit disjointed
but, I did finish it, and I didn’t hate it, so 2 stars from me
but, I did finish it, and I didn’t hate it, so 2 stars from me
Read
November 27, 2024Very, slow start, didn't hold my attention.
April 16, 2025
A cute little read! This story is about a woman who is taking second chances at life and learning to get past her own trauma. Definitely fun and easy to read!
November 15, 2025
Dull as a doorknob. Don’t recommend.
July 26, 2021
Pretty elementary writing and not a lot of depth to the characters. It did however get me over the hump of not being able to finish a book during COVID. (I guess I had to aim lower or turn the pages faster:)
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