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A Year of Being Single
'A fabulously entertaining story!' - Rachel's Random Reads (top 1,000 Amazon Reviewer) Three friends. One year. Absolutely no men... Imogen is supposed to be on the most romantic weekend of her life and instead she's quickly realised that her current boyfriend definitely isn't 'The One' and actually One Big Mistake. Frankie is fed up. Fed up of her good-for-nothing husband and her four, unappreciative children. Well, they hardly notice her anyway, maybe it's time to shake it up a little... Grace thought she had the perfect life. Gorgeous little boy and perfect, hardworking husband. Or rather, she did, until she realised her husband was shagging his 'work'. These single ladies don't need to put a ring on it...right? Perfect for fans of Jane Costello, Helen Fielding and Fiona Gibson, don't miss this brilliant debut bestseller from Fiona Collins!
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Published December 29, 2016
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About the author
Fiona Collins
8 books111 followersFiona Collins grew up in an Essex village & after stints in Hong Kong and London returned to the Essex countryside where she lives with her husband & three children. She has a degree in Film & Literature & has had many former careers including TV presenting in Hong Kong, traffic & weather presenter for BBC local radio & film/TV extra. Fiona writes contemporary women's fiction.
As a reader, I like to read on my Kindle in bed or on the sofa on a weekend afternoon, with a paperback. From Valentine’s Day 2020, I’m setting myself a challenge to read 50 women’s memoirs/autobiographies in one year. I'll be posting my thoughts about them on my website https://fionacollinsauthor.com/
You can follow Fiona on Twitter @FionaJaneBooks or find her on Instagram @fionacollinsauthor
As a reader, I like to read on my Kindle in bed or on the sofa on a weekend afternoon, with a paperback. From Valentine’s Day 2020, I’m setting myself a challenge to read 50 women’s memoirs/autobiographies in one year. I'll be posting my thoughts about them on my website https://fionacollinsauthor.com/
You can follow Fiona on Twitter @FionaJaneBooks or find her on Instagram @fionacollinsauthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
March 12, 2019
Actual rating: 2,5
This year I made a decision to clear out my Netgalley shelf, so there are lots of backlists reviews coming your way, so be prepared!
A Year of Being Single is the one title I had on my tbr for the longest time, and there are really no excuses why I haven’t picked it up before. I could bore you with me whining how I didn’t have time to read all the titles I wanted to, how I was in a reviewing slump that lasted for almost a and all that jazz, but I won’t.
The one important thing is, I am reviewing it now, so I’ll just say “Better late then never”.
My expectations for A Year of Being Single weren’t too high to begin with, but I did expect it to be better then it was.
The story follows three friends, Imogen, Frankie and Grace who all decide to spend a year as single ladies. This sounds like a good premise for fun, right?
Well, the story itself wasn’t fun at all.
I am not sure if the sense of humour in this book was very different for my own, so I didn’t laugh at all while reading, or is it the fact that this book actually wasn’t funny.
I know there are so many books out there that are masterpieces and they don’t have any jokes in them, aren’t funny at all, but if you promise me a laugh-out-loud story in your premise, then I expect to smile at least once!
Also, I expected that A Year of Being Single would be a novel about friendship and relationships friends have with each other, but what we really got in this book were three different stories to follow, about three women who decided to be single, but are kind of desperate about it.
I didn’t like how they lied to each other about men they were hanging out with. I mean, if you’re singe, you can still mingle!
It’s like these characters “decided” to do a year of celibate, not of being single. I mean, you don’t have to whore yourself while being single, but we all know that being single does not mean not even talking to guys or having some fun while building relationship with yourself.
What I also didn’t click with is how these women had a need to change guys.
It is very different from my point of view on relationships. I believe that you have to find yourself a person you like, to be with him/her, and not someone you would like if only this/that was different about them.
People are not projects, and there is a reason why there are so many of us. If you constantly have to change people around you, ask yourself whether the one who needs to change is you!
The story is written in third person, following perspectives of Grace, Frankie and Imogen.
Out of all of them, I liked Frankie’s story the best, even though I still don’t understand how could she just leave her four children because she had enough.
I still wonder if I misunderstood that part!
Overall, this was a quick read and I would still recommend it to women’s fiction lovers.
This year I made a decision to clear out my Netgalley shelf, so there are lots of backlists reviews coming your way, so be prepared!
A Year of Being Single is the one title I had on my tbr for the longest time, and there are really no excuses why I haven’t picked it up before. I could bore you with me whining how I didn’t have time to read all the titles I wanted to, how I was in a reviewing slump that lasted for almost a and all that jazz, but I won’t.
The one important thing is, I am reviewing it now, so I’ll just say “Better late then never”.
My expectations for A Year of Being Single weren’t too high to begin with, but I did expect it to be better then it was.
The story follows three friends, Imogen, Frankie and Grace who all decide to spend a year as single ladies. This sounds like a good premise for fun, right?
Well, the story itself wasn’t fun at all.
I am not sure if the sense of humour in this book was very different for my own, so I didn’t laugh at all while reading, or is it the fact that this book actually wasn’t funny.
I know there are so many books out there that are masterpieces and they don’t have any jokes in them, aren’t funny at all, but if you promise me a laugh-out-loud story in your premise, then I expect to smile at least once!
Also, I expected that A Year of Being Single would be a novel about friendship and relationships friends have with each other, but what we really got in this book were three different stories to follow, about three women who decided to be single, but are kind of desperate about it.
I didn’t like how they lied to each other about men they were hanging out with. I mean, if you’re singe, you can still mingle!
It’s like these characters “decided” to do a year of celibate, not of being single. I mean, you don’t have to whore yourself while being single, but we all know that being single does not mean not even talking to guys or having some fun while building relationship with yourself.
What I also didn’t click with is how these women had a need to change guys.
It is very different from my point of view on relationships. I believe that you have to find yourself a person you like, to be with him/her, and not someone you would like if only this/that was different about them.
People are not projects, and there is a reason why there are so many of us. If you constantly have to change people around you, ask yourself whether the one who needs to change is you!
The story is written in third person, following perspectives of Grace, Frankie and Imogen.
Out of all of them, I liked Frankie’s story the best, even though I still don’t understand how could she just leave her four children because she had enough.
I still wonder if I misunderstood that part!
Overall, this was a quick read and I would still recommend it to women’s fiction lovers.
April 28, 2016
A Year of Being Single is about 3 best friends, Imogen, Frankie and Grace. Having had enough of men they all decide to stay single just for a year!.
Imogen knows that she needs to get rid of her current boyfriend as he is gross, lazy and selfish. Frankie has children, and a husband who acts like more of a child than the others. She decides its time to tell Rob to leave as she will never be appreciated.. And lastly we have Grace, who has just found out her wonderful husband James, has been cheating on her.
They figure they have each other and thats all they need. They write up a contract and shake hands to stay away from all contact with men. They are not to let any men into their lives as they dont need them.
This has a great cover and an even better blurb, and i like that it was about 3 different people, so we got to know each person indivually. For me i did think the title was a bit misleading. I thought they would all stay single and we would follow them on a journey without men, having some fun and getting up to mischief and it would show us we dont always need a man in our lives. But as you get into the story, things are very different and i found myself at times saying.. Really?!. Wheres the sisterhood of singledom!.
I did enjoy this but felt it lacked a bit of oomph in parts. Would like to read more from Fiona in the future.
Imogen knows that she needs to get rid of her current boyfriend as he is gross, lazy and selfish. Frankie has children, and a husband who acts like more of a child than the others. She decides its time to tell Rob to leave as she will never be appreciated.. And lastly we have Grace, who has just found out her wonderful husband James, has been cheating on her.
They figure they have each other and thats all they need. They write up a contract and shake hands to stay away from all contact with men. They are not to let any men into their lives as they dont need them.
This has a great cover and an even better blurb, and i like that it was about 3 different people, so we got to know each person indivually. For me i did think the title was a bit misleading. I thought they would all stay single and we would follow them on a journey without men, having some fun and getting up to mischief and it would show us we dont always need a man in our lives. But as you get into the story, things are very different and i found myself at times saying.. Really?!. Wheres the sisterhood of singledom!.
I did enjoy this but felt it lacked a bit of oomph in parts. Would like to read more from Fiona in the future.
April 25, 2016
Originally posted on This Chick Reads
*Copy provided by publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
'A Year of Being Single' is Fiona Collins' debut and a book I've been excited to read ever since I saw the gorgeous, colourful cover. (Yes, I'm a sucker for a beautiful cover, I admit that). As this is debut, I approached the book with as little expectations as I could, as I really hate it when a book disappoints me. However, I was excited, I can't hide that. I absolutely love books about BFFs, and women wanting to reinvent themselves. The premise of the book promised it all, three women (in their 30-40s), all unappreciated by men, are making a pact to be single for a year. Loved the sound of this!
Imogen is very disappointed with her last relationship, and she seems like a magnet for all the wrong types of men. She's got her career, though she's experiencing slight changes on that field too, and despite being in her 40s and dating a lot of men, she still hasn't found the one. She can't be the problem, as she's intelligent, good looking, she's a good friend...but somehow, men don't see that. After her last repulsive boyfriend and a major let down, she decides it's time to stop looking for the one. Hell, she won't even date, she'll be fine all by herself.
Frankie is finally fed up of her husband and the mad house they call their home. Mother of four (actually 5 if you count her husband too, as he seems to be the biggest child of them all) she needs a break. She desperately needs a quiet house where she could listen to her own thoughts, and she needs to teach them all a lesson. She does everything for them, countless hours in the kitchen, laundry, cleaning etc. But no one, especially not her husband Rob, seem to appreciate it. After a night of cooling down, she decides it's time she and Rob had a break. She doesn't need a man, especially if that man is Rob who can't even pick up stuff after himself, let alone take care of her.
Grace has just found out her life is not as perfect as she thought. Her world comes tumbling down when she finds out her husband was having an affair at work. She decides it's time to say goodbye to her cheating husband and say hello to singledom. Being single again, it cant be that bad, right?
You know what they say, the grass is NOT always greener on the other side ...
Imogen, Frankie and Grace decide it's time to make radical changes in their lives and vow not to date, or even be attracted to any man for a year. They are all they need, they have their friendship, they'll support each other. Easy peasy, right? Well, it definitely will be a challenging time for them and they'll learn a lot about themselves.
'A Year of Being Single' was an interesting and very easy read. After a long working day, this book will definitely take your mind off your problems. However, after reading 20% of it, I expected more. The book certainly got better after the first third of it, I guess it took me some time to get to know the women and understand their reasons for the radical and dramatic change. While the story is light hearted, I expected more humour. Though I could connect to Imogen's ambition, Frankie's break downs (having two children of my own), I can't say I fully connected to these characters. I saw some sides of their personality I could relate, but unfortunately that wasn't sufficient to convince me in their mission. As I said, if there was more humour in the book, things would have seem better.
Overall, it was a very fast read and if you're a fan of chick lit, I assume you'll be checking it out. I know we'll certainly see more of Fiona Collins in the future and I'm looking forward to her next books.
December 24, 2016
A year of being single is the debut novel by Fiona Collins and it will not disappoint!
The story is based around three best friends Imogen, Grace and Frankie who all live on the same street. The girls decided to make a pact to be single for a year after a string of unsuccessful relationships, an affair and being taken for granted. However the Girl's plans to swear of men don't exactly go according to plan and it isn't long before they are all keeping secrets from each other.
I found Fiona Colllin's debut novel to be light hearted and entertaining and a great read for anybody that enjoys a bit of Chic Lit. It is the perfect book to read on a night in, with a cuppa and your pj's!
I look forward to reading more books by Fiona Collins and will be keeping her on my radar.
A big thankyou to Carina UK for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The story is based around three best friends Imogen, Grace and Frankie who all live on the same street. The girls decided to make a pact to be single for a year after a string of unsuccessful relationships, an affair and being taken for granted. However the Girl's plans to swear of men don't exactly go according to plan and it isn't long before they are all keeping secrets from each other.
I found Fiona Colllin's debut novel to be light hearted and entertaining and a great read for anybody that enjoys a bit of Chic Lit. It is the perfect book to read on a night in, with a cuppa and your pj's!
I look forward to reading more books by Fiona Collins and will be keeping her on my radar.
A big thankyou to Carina UK for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 30, 2016
Three friends realise on the same day that their relationships are not healthy and they need to change them. Imogen decides that the three of them should swear off men for a year and enjoy being single. At this point I thought it was obvious what would happen – all of them would meet someone and they would not last a year as singletons. How wrong was I! The author cleverly added a few twists and although there were men involved it was not at all a predictable ending. I was very pleased with the outcome and this really lifted the book into something a little out of the ordinary. I also enjoyed the fact that although this book could be categorised as “chicklit” the characters were older than usual and still feisty and strong women.
April 17, 2016
Three best friends all living in the same street, all on the same day let out silent screams and realise they need to change their current circumstances. Imogen realises that she needs to get rid of the current man she is dating as he is repulsive. Frankie is mum to four kids, plus her husband who by the sounds of it is more of a child than the others. She realises the only way she will ever get appreciated or some alone time is to kick Rob out. And then there is Grace, who has just discovered her husband James is cheating on her.
When the three friends get together the next day they decide between them to all be single for a year, and swear off all contact with any men completely. Of course things never go exactly according to plan and you end up with a fabulous mix of the friends lying to each other, as they realise its harder than it seems to stay single for a year!
A Year of Being Single is a fabulously entertaining story, alternating between the three friends points of view. All three of the friends stories are very different, and it was a pleasure getting to know the ladies. Imogen's colleague sounded a bit nuts, Grace had a different way of dealing with a plus one invite now that she was single and Frankie took up a new hobby and found herself realising that she needs to be careful what she wises for.
This is an enjoyable debut novel from Fiona Collins, and one that I found to be light hearted piece of chick lit, perfect of cheering up a drab weekend. It was easy to read, and I feel that it would be quite easy to dip in and out of,. The writing is amusing and there are some fairly memorable scenes.
I did feel slightly let down by the conclusion, and felt that various conversations towards the end should have been bigger and more impactful. There are though some gorgeous men and a few good romantic gestures in the story to make up for it!
As someone who is chronically single, I still feel happy being single after reading this, but appreciate its not a condition that most ladies can deal with for a whole year!
Thanks to Netgalley and Carina for this review copy. This was my honest opinion.
April 18, 2016
I was lucky enough to read a preview copy of A YEAR OF BEING SINGLE and read it in one sitting.
I loved this book - it was a brilliant read. The author, Fiona Collins, is so funny and there were many, many times when I laughed out loud. I identified with each of the three main characters and loved the way their stories were threaded through the book. I fell completely in love with Richard - I knew Imogen wouldn't be able to resist him! Who could?! He reminded me of Mr Big in Sex and the City and of Tom Selleck in Friends, too. I loved the repartee between Imogen and Richard - it was very witty and I loved the references to films and songs throughout the book, but particularly in their chapters.
This book's out on Thursday - buy a copy, switch off the phone, curl up on the sofa and have a lovely night with A Year of Being Single.
I loved this book - it was a brilliant read. The author, Fiona Collins, is so funny and there were many, many times when I laughed out loud. I identified with each of the three main characters and loved the way their stories were threaded through the book. I fell completely in love with Richard - I knew Imogen wouldn't be able to resist him! Who could?! He reminded me of Mr Big in Sex and the City and of Tom Selleck in Friends, too. I loved the repartee between Imogen and Richard - it was very witty and I loved the references to films and songs throughout the book, but particularly in their chapters.
This book's out on Thursday - buy a copy, switch off the phone, curl up on the sofa and have a lovely night with A Year of Being Single.
April 20, 2016
Light, entertaining, well done chick lit- good for a dreary day or, for that matter, outside on a sunny day. You'll enjoy these women. Nicely drawn characters and good writing made this one a thumbs up! Good debut novel; I'll definitely look for more from Collins. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC.
May 6, 2016
This book is brilliantly funny and had me laughing out loud many, many times. Although I don't normally read boy-meets-girl chick lit, this is a cut above and has women I can identify with. These are women in their thirties and forties who have all had enough of their own situations. Frankie is taken for granted by her husband and family. Imogen tries and fails to make her appalling date The One, before giving up on men completely, and poor perfect Grace gets cheated on by her husband.
They all make a joint vow to stay away from men for a whole year, believing it will be ridiculously easy to keep (after far too much wine, that is). But each one finds temptation in their way and that's when the secrets start.
All the women are well written and well rounded characters. They are also likable, which goes a long towards making the story enjoyable. What really sets this book apart though, is the humour. From the man who strokes his belly "like it was a puppy", to the drunken accidental "BAGA 4" routine, I was laughing out loud like I hadn't done in ages. I hope Fiona Collins writes more, because she is really good at this.
They all make a joint vow to stay away from men for a whole year, believing it will be ridiculously easy to keep (after far too much wine, that is). But each one finds temptation in their way and that's when the secrets start.
All the women are well written and well rounded characters. They are also likable, which goes a long towards making the story enjoyable. What really sets this book apart though, is the humour. From the man who strokes his belly "like it was a puppy", to the drunken accidental "BAGA 4" routine, I was laughing out loud like I hadn't done in ages. I hope Fiona Collins writes more, because she is really good at this.
June 3, 2016
Don't expect to encounter strong,,independent women in this book. Instead, it falls into all of the worst stereotypes of women who are defined by the men in their lives and the fantasy that you'll meet the right, white knight of a man who will sweep you off your feet. And then life is good. It's utter drivel. And a horrible example to set for women.
May 1, 2016
I loved this book! It's a laugh-out-loud read, the author's style is easy and engaging, and the premise is intriguing. Great for curling up on the sofa on a rainy day, or one of your holiday reads on the beach.
I really do hope to see more from Ms Collins.
I really do hope to see more from Ms Collins.
August 18, 2021
Edit: Having thought about it overnight, for the issues I’ve raised I really can’t knock off 2 whole stars. So it’s going up to a 4.
There was a lot I really enjoyed about this book. I listened to the audiobook performed by Elisabeth Hopper who is an outstanding narrator. 5 stars for narration.
The three main characters I found believable and engaging. I could identify with each of their stories. What troubled me were 2 things. First, apart from a behaviour change of one of the men, most of the references to women desiring the male characters, seeking them out or being in love, seemed to be focused on their looks. Whilst physical attraction plays a part, this just isn’t representative of any hetero women I know. Personality is a huge part of desiring someone and I didn’t get the sense that this was factored in.
The reason I struggle to reach 4 stars for this book, despite having really rather enjoyed much of it, is the way women’s bodies are discussed. I am fiercely attuned to listen for such things and I did not hear (read) a single positive word about any physical attribute above a size 10. Even somebody who was described as a 14 seemed to be considered enormous. Even the one vaguely positive character who is described in terms of her large bottom and huge chest, isn’t given the sense that she embraces that in any way. Every other physically large character is mocked in some way. This left me feeling really sad, that women are reading descriptions which continue to perpetuate society’s value of slim as a virtue above all, and fat as a negative personality failing.
I want to love Fiona’s writing as I did zip through the book and found myself listening at times of day when I don’t usually read. Now I understand this was her debut, I will read more of her work and hope some things are shown in a kinder light. The way Fiona draws the characters was incredibly engaging and I was disappointed to reach the end of the story. So it probably does deserve more than 3 stars. I might change that if I read it again.
There was a lot I really enjoyed about this book. I listened to the audiobook performed by Elisabeth Hopper who is an outstanding narrator. 5 stars for narration.
The three main characters I found believable and engaging. I could identify with each of their stories. What troubled me were 2 things. First, apart from a behaviour change of one of the men, most of the references to women desiring the male characters, seeking them out or being in love, seemed to be focused on their looks. Whilst physical attraction plays a part, this just isn’t representative of any hetero women I know. Personality is a huge part of desiring someone and I didn’t get the sense that this was factored in.
The reason I struggle to reach 4 stars for this book, despite having really rather enjoyed much of it, is the way women’s bodies are discussed. I am fiercely attuned to listen for such things and I did not hear (read) a single positive word about any physical attribute above a size 10. Even somebody who was described as a 14 seemed to be considered enormous. Even the one vaguely positive character who is described in terms of her large bottom and huge chest, isn’t given the sense that she embraces that in any way. Every other physically large character is mocked in some way. This left me feeling really sad, that women are reading descriptions which continue to perpetuate society’s value of slim as a virtue above all, and fat as a negative personality failing.
I want to love Fiona’s writing as I did zip through the book and found myself listening at times of day when I don’t usually read. Now I understand this was her debut, I will read more of her work and hope some things are shown in a kinder light. The way Fiona draws the characters was incredibly engaging and I was disappointed to reach the end of the story. So it probably does deserve more than 3 stars. I might change that if I read it again.
March 6, 2021
OK so this isn't my usual genre of reading anyway but I thought it would be... different than what it ended up being. I expected girls having adventures and finding themselves during this year of being single but all 3 spent the whole time lying to each other and finding a man. It was a touch cliché at times but an easy read. I didn't HATE it and I didn't DNF it. But it was, for me anyway, a little forgettable.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 12, 2016
Review first posted on my blog 'A Spoonful of Happy Endings': http://spoonfulofhappyendings.blogspo...
Frankie, Imogen and Grace are the best of friends who happen to have one thing in common with each other; they are fed up with the men in their lives. Frankie is sick and tired of continually cleaning up after her husband and four kids, so she decides it's time to throw him out of the house. Imogen is dating another big mistake, one in a row of many, and decides she might be better off alone. Grace unexpectedly finds herself alone as well after she catches her husband James cheating on her. The three women decide it's time to stay single for an entire year; no more man problems and just the focus on themselves for a change. But a year can be quite long; question is, can Imogen, Frankie and Grace really stick to their pact or will it be a bigger challenge than they expected...?
'A Year of Being Single' is a fun and enjoyable chick lit read and a promising debut novel by new author Fiona Collins. The book is told from the points of view of three different female characters, Imogen, Frankie and Grace, who all decide to spend a year without men. Each of the women has her own interesting and captivating story to tell and I specifically enjoyed how different the women were, each of them with her own personality and own ideas of what she wants from the men in her life. If I have to pick one favourite character it's probably Grace; she really develops throughout the story and I really liked what the author decided to do with her storyline.
I was a bit surprised by some elements of the ending of the book; not everything I'd hoped for happened, but that is not necessarily a bad thing, of course. The novel is quite a quick read with around 260 pages and chapters of a good length; not too long and not too short. I really enjoyed Fiona Collins' debut and think it's a promising start to her author career; I look forward to seeing what she comes up with next next! Overall, 'A Year of Being Single' is a thoroughly enjoyable, light-hearted and fun read I can recommend to any women's fiction or chick lit fan looking for their next read, and another great read by publisher Carina UK!
Frankie, Imogen and Grace are the best of friends who happen to have one thing in common with each other; they are fed up with the men in their lives. Frankie is sick and tired of continually cleaning up after her husband and four kids, so she decides it's time to throw him out of the house. Imogen is dating another big mistake, one in a row of many, and decides she might be better off alone. Grace unexpectedly finds herself alone as well after she catches her husband James cheating on her. The three women decide it's time to stay single for an entire year; no more man problems and just the focus on themselves for a change. But a year can be quite long; question is, can Imogen, Frankie and Grace really stick to their pact or will it be a bigger challenge than they expected...?
'A Year of Being Single' is a fun and enjoyable chick lit read and a promising debut novel by new author Fiona Collins. The book is told from the points of view of three different female characters, Imogen, Frankie and Grace, who all decide to spend a year without men. Each of the women has her own interesting and captivating story to tell and I specifically enjoyed how different the women were, each of them with her own personality and own ideas of what she wants from the men in her life. If I have to pick one favourite character it's probably Grace; she really develops throughout the story and I really liked what the author decided to do with her storyline.
I was a bit surprised by some elements of the ending of the book; not everything I'd hoped for happened, but that is not necessarily a bad thing, of course. The novel is quite a quick read with around 260 pages and chapters of a good length; not too long and not too short. I really enjoyed Fiona Collins' debut and think it's a promising start to her author career; I look forward to seeing what she comes up with next next! Overall, 'A Year of Being Single' is a thoroughly enjoyable, light-hearted and fun read I can recommend to any women's fiction or chick lit fan looking for their next read, and another great read by publisher Carina UK!
October 25, 2016
All reviews can be found on my blog at https://thewritinggarnet.wordpress.com
I’ll be honest, as soon as I saw the title I thought to myself, ‘how hard can it be, being single for a year?’, after all, I have been single for OVER a year and I am owning that shizzmanizzle. However, I’m not Imogen, Frankie OR Grace. Three very different women with one main thing in common; they all have been surrounded by scumbag, male partners. A cheater, a lazy good for nothing and a ‘we are never, ever, getting back together’ type. To be honest, looking at the summary of the three men, you can see why the ladies think that the single will be for them!
Will all three ladies channel their inner Beyoncé and become ‘ALL THE SINGLE LADIES, PUT YOUR HANDS UP’? Will they keep to their agreement and stay away from ‘what a man, what a man, what a might good man’? Only time will tell….
My first thoughts of Frankie’s lifestyle and her husband actually made me grit my teeth. I was surprised she put up with it for as long as she did as I got angry just be reading about it. Sheeeesh. That said, I found her far easier to gel with than the other two women. For me, Frankie came across more real and the most relatable character. I’m not saying that I disliked the other two characters, not at all, it just took me longer to warm up to their personalities.
Like many other reviewers, I thought that they would stay single for a whole year and reinstate the GIRL POWER. But, halfway through the book, I had absolutely no idea which way the storyline was headed. A few of the ladies choices left a lot to be desired and spoke volumes about their dedication to the infamous girl code. I mean, what did they expect living on the same street as each other, and all of them being as nosy as Norris Cole in Coronation Street!
TWG’s verdict? A refreshing take on the ‘typical’ chick lit storylines, with plenty of giggles thrown in for good measure. I enjoyed the bizarre choices in both men and lifestyles and the whole book kept me entertained the whole way through. A truly fabulous light read, perfect to cosy up with as the nights draw in.
I’ll be honest, as soon as I saw the title I thought to myself, ‘how hard can it be, being single for a year?’, after all, I have been single for OVER a year and I am owning that shizzmanizzle. However, I’m not Imogen, Frankie OR Grace. Three very different women with one main thing in common; they all have been surrounded by scumbag, male partners. A cheater, a lazy good for nothing and a ‘we are never, ever, getting back together’ type. To be honest, looking at the summary of the three men, you can see why the ladies think that the single will be for them!
Will all three ladies channel their inner Beyoncé and become ‘ALL THE SINGLE LADIES, PUT YOUR HANDS UP’? Will they keep to their agreement and stay away from ‘what a man, what a man, what a might good man’? Only time will tell….
My first thoughts of Frankie’s lifestyle and her husband actually made me grit my teeth. I was surprised she put up with it for as long as she did as I got angry just be reading about it. Sheeeesh. That said, I found her far easier to gel with than the other two women. For me, Frankie came across more real and the most relatable character. I’m not saying that I disliked the other two characters, not at all, it just took me longer to warm up to their personalities.
Like many other reviewers, I thought that they would stay single for a whole year and reinstate the GIRL POWER. But, halfway through the book, I had absolutely no idea which way the storyline was headed. A few of the ladies choices left a lot to be desired and spoke volumes about their dedication to the infamous girl code. I mean, what did they expect living on the same street as each other, and all of them being as nosy as Norris Cole in Coronation Street!
TWG’s verdict? A refreshing take on the ‘typical’ chick lit storylines, with plenty of giggles thrown in for good measure. I enjoyed the bizarre choices in both men and lifestyles and the whole book kept me entertained the whole way through. A truly fabulous light read, perfect to cosy up with as the nights draw in.
July 15, 2016
Well this book began with great promise. I smiled a lot for the first few pages because I was really getting into the story, the characters and the way the plot was unfolding. But about a third of the way through I became bored. The same thing that happened to one character happened to the others and I was, by then, quite fed up by the predictability of it all. But not only that, there seemed to be a shift in what I thought was quite intelligent writing to something a bit more pedestrian and a bit too typical of this genre. I kinda yawned, thinking, 'I've heard it all before'. And so I began to skim through loads of pages and eventually gave up ...
BUT, I decided to go back in a week or so later and give the book another go. It claimed to be 'laugh out loud' and so far had failed to make me giggle quietly. Then something happened. It was as if the writer of the first few pages was back! Towards the end the story really began to flow. At on stage I ditched my work, put my feet up and just read and read. I really wanted to know what happened to these women, all of a sudden I was caring about them again.
Thank goodness for a neat little twist at the end - it made me smile.
One of the things that put me off initially was Fiona Collins' reference to the play 'Abigail's Party' in which she made a glaring error when mentioning it and, as it is one of my favourites, I lost faith in the writer.
On the whole I think a lot of readers will really enjoy this - remember this is personal opinion so don't let me stop you at least trying it for yourself.
BUT, I decided to go back in a week or so later and give the book another go. It claimed to be 'laugh out loud' and so far had failed to make me giggle quietly. Then something happened. It was as if the writer of the first few pages was back! Towards the end the story really began to flow. At on stage I ditched my work, put my feet up and just read and read. I really wanted to know what happened to these women, all of a sudden I was caring about them again.
Thank goodness for a neat little twist at the end - it made me smile.
One of the things that put me off initially was Fiona Collins' reference to the play 'Abigail's Party' in which she made a glaring error when mentioning it and, as it is one of my favourites, I lost faith in the writer.
On the whole I think a lot of readers will really enjoy this - remember this is personal opinion so don't let me stop you at least trying it for yourself.
October 14, 2017
A Year of Being Single is a glimpse into friendship, love, and heartbreak that comes from living life to the fullest. We all have the our "go to friend", the friend who helps survive hard times and celebrate the best time. Grace, Imogene, and Frankie are friends who for different reasons find themselves single after being involved in a relationship or marriage. They make a pact to swear off men for a year, to be single for a year. A year to be free to do whatever, whenever to grow, and proving they do not need anyone but each other. BUT! This is just like the age old problem, you know the one, the day of your haircut appointment your hair looks fabulous! The characters are likeable and relatable! I could find some of me in each one. I am a huge fan of anything set in Paris and dream of visiting. Bonus points!
A very entertaining story that will leave you feeling like you have made new friends as you learn living single isn't easy when your heart is in control.
More please!
A very entertaining story that will leave you feeling like you have made new friends as you learn living single isn't easy when your heart is in control.
More please!
May 1, 2016
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book!
This is a perfect book to grab and take to the beach, or just sit and read and wish you were at the beach!
Three close friends and neighbors decide to make a pact to swear off men for a year. Imogene keeps picking the wrong men; Grace's husband had an affair; Frankie couldn't take her messy life with her husband and 4 kids for one more minute. What follows is just a fun story of each friend somehow breaking their pact. A reminder that the grass isn't always greener!
A fun summer read in the vein of Diary of Bridget Jones. There's something about the English vernacular that makes these books even better!
This is a perfect book to grab and take to the beach, or just sit and read and wish you were at the beach!
Three close friends and neighbors decide to make a pact to swear off men for a year. Imogene keeps picking the wrong men; Grace's husband had an affair; Frankie couldn't take her messy life with her husband and 4 kids for one more minute. What follows is just a fun story of each friend somehow breaking their pact. A reminder that the grass isn't always greener!
A fun summer read in the vein of Diary of Bridget Jones. There's something about the English vernacular that makes these books even better!
May 1, 2016
When it comes to fiction, I look for books that involve me completely —whether it’s because of the beautiful writing, the power of the story, or the characters, and in a perfect book it’s all three. So by the time I got to the end, I knew I’d just read a novel that mixed all the elements for the a good chick lit..
I'd like to thank Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC in return for an honest review.
I'd like to thank Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC in return for an honest review.
January 20, 2025
The same as all the other reviews. Missed opportunity. I decided to leave a review bc I didn’t see any mentioning the frequent judgmental comments about people’s appearances. Talking about a fat belly or being squeezed into a bodycon dress. My least favorite kind of women, and writing, building up the main characters beauty by pointing out how much better they are than others around them. Gross.
June 26, 2018
I couldn't finish it
I thought this was by Fiona Gibson. Note to self: never again confuse your Fionnas. This one is absolutely terrible.
I thought this was by Fiona Gibson. Note to self: never again confuse your Fionnas. This one is absolutely terrible.
February 5, 2018
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First off who doesn't like an easy fun read about friendship!? Secondly who doesn't love Beyoncé's 'Single ladies'?! I know I had this song in my mind throughout the whole time I read this book!!
Imogen, Frankie and Grace are best friends who live down the same street. The chapter's are written by each of the ladies point of view, I always enjoy reading these types of books, I feel you get to know the characters so much more. However I am a little slow getting into them just while I remember who is who!
On the same day they all let out silent screams, they have had enough of their current relationships and decide a change is needed.
Their relationships are all very different but they are not happy and had enough of men so they agree to make a pact and stay single for a whole year... Easy right?!
We first meet Imogen who was on a romantic weekend in Paris with her boyfriend (Dave), successful career in her early 40's she is not having much luck in finding the one and Dave is most definitely not it. She decides to take action and finishes the relationship as soon as they return to London.
Frankie has had enough of her husband and four children, for a break away from Rob and the kids she buy's one night hotel stays to relax and binge watch TV. Frankie feels taken for granted and decides she wants peaceful weekends instead of clearing up after everyone. She asks her husband Rob to leave.
Grace, poor Grace... I really felt sorry for her, she was the only one who was happy in her relationship until she found a text message on her husband's (James) phone from another woman and finds out he has been cheating on her.
As soon as they made the deal with each other I did think it wouldn't be long until a man showed up.. As they say things always happen to people when they are not looking for it, they also say that the grass is sometimes not any greener!!
Being an Essex girl myself I really loved this book and reading all the places mentioned throughout, 'Hylands House' and 'Romford Dogs'! It just made it that little bit easier to imagine the street they lived on and the places they visited.
The story follows the lives of the three women however as you can imagine over the months they struggle to stay single and they each end up getting involved with new men they have met. (hot new men to add!) Being best friends they share everything however as none of them wanted to be the one who broke the deal they start to keep secrets from each other and they become distant. I wasn't too keen on how much they were drifting apart in just a few months.
I did wonder at times whether they would stay single for the whole year or whether they would find love. I did agree with the ending it was a perfect way to end for the three friends. Great book by Fiona! Looking forward to reading many more!
http://lovebooksactually.blogspot.co....
First off who doesn't like an easy fun read about friendship!? Secondly who doesn't love Beyoncé's 'Single ladies'?! I know I had this song in my mind throughout the whole time I read this book!!
Imogen, Frankie and Grace are best friends who live down the same street. The chapter's are written by each of the ladies point of view, I always enjoy reading these types of books, I feel you get to know the characters so much more. However I am a little slow getting into them just while I remember who is who!
On the same day they all let out silent screams, they have had enough of their current relationships and decide a change is needed.
Their relationships are all very different but they are not happy and had enough of men so they agree to make a pact and stay single for a whole year... Easy right?!
We first meet Imogen who was on a romantic weekend in Paris with her boyfriend (Dave), successful career in her early 40's she is not having much luck in finding the one and Dave is most definitely not it. She decides to take action and finishes the relationship as soon as they return to London.
Frankie has had enough of her husband and four children, for a break away from Rob and the kids she buy's one night hotel stays to relax and binge watch TV. Frankie feels taken for granted and decides she wants peaceful weekends instead of clearing up after everyone. She asks her husband Rob to leave.
Grace, poor Grace... I really felt sorry for her, she was the only one who was happy in her relationship until she found a text message on her husband's (James) phone from another woman and finds out he has been cheating on her.
As soon as they made the deal with each other I did think it wouldn't be long until a man showed up.. As they say things always happen to people when they are not looking for it, they also say that the grass is sometimes not any greener!!
Being an Essex girl myself I really loved this book and reading all the places mentioned throughout, 'Hylands House' and 'Romford Dogs'! It just made it that little bit easier to imagine the street they lived on and the places they visited.
The story follows the lives of the three women however as you can imagine over the months they struggle to stay single and they each end up getting involved with new men they have met. (hot new men to add!) Being best friends they share everything however as none of them wanted to be the one who broke the deal they start to keep secrets from each other and they become distant. I wasn't too keen on how much they were drifting apart in just a few months.
I did wonder at times whether they would stay single for the whole year or whether they would find love. I did agree with the ending it was a perfect way to end for the three friends. Great book by Fiona! Looking forward to reading many more!
June 3, 2023
Imogen is in Paris (the most romantic city) with her boyfriend and she is looking forward to having a great time but when things go sideways, she looks back at her life, rethinks her choices, and tries to find out what went wrong.
Frankie has been married for over a decade and has four kids but she finds herself frustrated and not at all appreciated by her family. When she checks in at a local motel for the night by herself just to have some alone time, she looks back at her life and tries to find out what went wrong.
Grace has been married for over a decade and has a son. Grace had a picture-perfect life with a handsome husband and a lovely house and great taste in fashion but when she finds out that her husband has been cheating on her, she looks back at her life and tries to find out what went wrong.
Imogen, Frankie, and Grace are best friends and talk to each other about pretty much everything. After disastrous marriages for Frankie and Grace and awful dating life for Imogen, the three friends make a pact and decide to stay single for a year even though Grace is quite reluctant. Would they stick to this plan or deviate from this?
After reading Four Bridesmaids and a White Wedding by Fiona Collins, I did have some expectations so I am happy to say that this not only met those expectations but surpassed them too. This read more mature and I ended up enjoying this way more than Four Bridesmaids and a White Wedding. This had me rapt right from the beginning. The writing was simple but worked for this setting. All three characters have their own chapters and they had distinct voices. I liked their journey and the growth that they had. Just as Four Bridesmaids and a White Wedding, this isn't overly funny either as I only chuckled maybe a couple of times and that was only when Gideon responded to Grace. Gideon's responses had me in splits and there wasn't enough Gideon or Marcia. Also, I would have liked an epilogue at the end because it did feel like an abrupt ending to me. Having said that, I did enjoy the read and I look forward to reading more Fiona Collins.
3.75 stars
Frankie has been married for over a decade and has four kids but she finds herself frustrated and not at all appreciated by her family. When she checks in at a local motel for the night by herself just to have some alone time, she looks back at her life and tries to find out what went wrong.
Grace has been married for over a decade and has a son. Grace had a picture-perfect life with a handsome husband and a lovely house and great taste in fashion but when she finds out that her husband has been cheating on her, she looks back at her life and tries to find out what went wrong.
Imogen, Frankie, and Grace are best friends and talk to each other about pretty much everything. After disastrous marriages for Frankie and Grace and awful dating life for Imogen, the three friends make a pact and decide to stay single for a year even though Grace is quite reluctant. Would they stick to this plan or deviate from this?
After reading Four Bridesmaids and a White Wedding by Fiona Collins, I did have some expectations so I am happy to say that this not only met those expectations but surpassed them too. This read more mature and I ended up enjoying this way more than Four Bridesmaids and a White Wedding. This had me rapt right from the beginning. The writing was simple but worked for this setting. All three characters have their own chapters and they had distinct voices. I liked their journey and the growth that they had. Just as Four Bridesmaids and a White Wedding, this isn't overly funny either as I only chuckled maybe a couple of times and that was only when Gideon responded to Grace. Gideon's responses had me in splits and there wasn't enough Gideon or Marcia. Also, I would have liked an epilogue at the end because it did feel like an abrupt ending to me. Having said that, I did enjoy the read and I look forward to reading more Fiona Collins.
3.75 stars
February 26, 2018
I have no idea why this book ended up in my library queue. I added it for some reason, but after reading it, I have no idea why. This is not my sort of book. It was supposed to be comedic. I don't think I laughed once. Instead it was a painfully slow, boring, one-dimensional slog.
The premise is amusing: 3 friends all get man-trouble at the same time. The single girl has had a string of bad boyfriends, the 2 married ladies are experiencing common marital problems (infidelity and laziness). They make a pact to stay single for one year. From here, I thought maybe they would all find the things they enjoyed and experience life-changing personal growth.
Ha!
NO. Instead, they all immediately find new flings. Each new man is incredibly one-dimensional. We know very little about them, except that they are "gorgeous," "very good looking," or "incredibly handsome." Every time the new man enters a scene, we are reminded about how "very good looking" they are. I was rolling my eyes only 25% in.
The three friends all have predictable and boring short-term liaisons with the new men, and it ended exactly as I predicted. I won't spoil it in case someone out there enjoys insipid British girl novels, but it was not a surprise.
This book was a total waste of my time and I would not recommend it.
The premise is amusing: 3 friends all get man-trouble at the same time. The single girl has had a string of bad boyfriends, the 2 married ladies are experiencing common marital problems (infidelity and laziness). They make a pact to stay single for one year. From here, I thought maybe they would all find the things they enjoyed and experience life-changing personal growth.
Ha!
NO. Instead, they all immediately find new flings. Each new man is incredibly one-dimensional. We know very little about them, except that they are "gorgeous," "very good looking," or "incredibly handsome." Every time the new man enters a scene, we are reminded about how "very good looking" they are. I was rolling my eyes only 25% in.
The three friends all have predictable and boring short-term liaisons with the new men, and it ended exactly as I predicted. I won't spoil it in case someone out there enjoys insipid British girl novels, but it was not a surprise.
This book was a total waste of my time and I would not recommend it.
December 30, 2017
A good read to while the time.
I did want to slap Imogen a few times, because goodness, that woman was so stuck up most of the time! She is all on her high horse about being single, but guess who caves with a sexy American - I hated seeing how she justified it to herself, like she was 'allowed' out of their pact, especially if the others wouldn't know. Frankie, well, I simply cannot understand how anyone can let their house and their family get this unruly (FYI, I have kids, too, and though I've known chaos, it's never as bad as depicted in this story) - I just couldn't relate to her, especially the 'getting rid of Rob permanently is the solution for me to get a full night's sleep with no interruption'. Seemed a bit extreme and not well thought-out.
Grace, I could empathize with her, at least.
Like I said, it's good enough to while a few hours/vacation days, but it wasn't anything to write home about for me, sadly.
I did want to slap Imogen a few times, because goodness, that woman was so stuck up most of the time! She is all on her high horse about being single, but guess who caves with a sexy American - I hated seeing how she justified it to herself, like she was 'allowed' out of their pact, especially if the others wouldn't know. Frankie, well, I simply cannot understand how anyone can let their house and their family get this unruly (FYI, I have kids, too, and though I've known chaos, it's never as bad as depicted in this story) - I just couldn't relate to her, especially the 'getting rid of Rob permanently is the solution for me to get a full night's sleep with no interruption'. Seemed a bit extreme and not well thought-out.
Grace, I could empathize with her, at least.
Like I said, it's good enough to while a few hours/vacation days, but it wasn't anything to write home about for me, sadly.
October 7, 2017
This is about three ladies, Imogen, Frankie and Grace. At the start of the book, they are all struggling dating or married but unhappy. They decided to become single for a year and take time out for friends and themselves, however none of them are happy being single and do everything in their power to be dating again (without any of them knowing). This is their story.
I did enjoy this book, I liked the way Fiona made each chapter about each lady. It made it for me easier to understand. Some of the chapters were shorter than others and this was nice as it was easier to read. I did enjoy this book, it was very light hearted to read and read it quickly.
I did enjoy this book, I liked the way Fiona made each chapter about each lady. It made it for me easier to understand. Some of the chapters were shorter than others and this was nice as it was easier to read. I did enjoy this book, it was very light hearted to read and read it quickly.
December 5, 2018
Good story about women and friendship.
I enjoyed this light and sometimes funny story a lot three friends who are disappointed with their love lives and make a pact to be single for one year. One woman's husband left her for another woman, the second kicked her husband out because he was a slob and the third had many romances but they never led to .marriage. It was interesting to read about how they coped and finally wound up.
I enjoyed this light and sometimes funny story a lot three friends who are disappointed with their love lives and make a pact to be single for one year. One woman's husband left her for another woman, the second kicked her husband out because he was a slob and the third had many romances but they never led to .marriage. It was interesting to read about how they coped and finally wound up.
November 17, 2017
I am not usually a fan with multiples POV's but I have to say I really enjoyed reading this novel. The characters are quirky and have they own personalities which I liked. I'm giving this novel a 5 star because I have no complaints and will be definitely checking out more of Fiona Collins books. A must read!
October 31, 2022
Una lectura muy entretenida en general. Al principio si debo decir que fue un poco lenta, e incluso un poco aburrido. Pero a medida que nuestras 3 protagonistas trataban de llevar a cabo su primera de ser solteras por un año, y fracasaban en el intento, se ponía todo más interesante. Al final me gustó como cada una termino de diferente manera pero de una forma muy satisfactoria.
July 26, 2025
I'm loving this great British chick-lit! Three friends make a pact to stay single for a year then all meet up with fabulous men who are too good to be true.It gets complicated when they bump into each other with their men and realise they are all hiding secrets from each other. I took this on holiday last week and it is a jolly good read.
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