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The One Who's Not the One
A hilarious rom com about falling in love, falling out of love, and finding out who you really are.
Cat’s life has hit a brick wall. Since her ex ditched her without ceremony five years ago she’s quit stand-up comedy, landed in a steady but dull job, and lives in a tiny flat with roommates she knows only as The One Who Eats All My Food and The One Who Has Really Loud Sex.
So when she bumps into old friend Harvey and sparks fly, Cat is surprised – and horrified, because Harvey is her ex’s brother, and so absolutely, 100% off-limits romantically. Even if his dimples do make her insides fizz…
When she’s offered a new job abroad, Cat is tempted to accept – and leave her depressing flat and mess of a love life behind her. But will running away from her problems really solve them?
Fans of Jenny Colgan, Marian Keyes and Mhairi McFarlane will love Keris Stainton!
Cat’s life has hit a brick wall. Since her ex ditched her without ceremony five years ago she’s quit stand-up comedy, landed in a steady but dull job, and lives in a tiny flat with roommates she knows only as The One Who Eats All My Food and The One Who Has Really Loud Sex.
So when she bumps into old friend Harvey and sparks fly, Cat is surprised – and horrified, because Harvey is her ex’s brother, and so absolutely, 100% off-limits romantically. Even if his dimples do make her insides fizz…
When she’s offered a new job abroad, Cat is tempted to accept – and leave her depressing flat and mess of a love life behind her. But will running away from her problems really solve them?
Fans of Jenny Colgan, Marian Keyes and Mhairi McFarlane will love Keris Stainton!
218 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 26, 2019
550 people are currently reading
595 people want to read
About the author
Keris Stainton
22 books525 followersMy mum always claimed that when she lived in America for a year, my dad wrote to her every day and, in one of his letters, proposed. My dad denied this. But when she got home they got married anyway. In 1966 they emigrated to Canada. They'd wanted to go to New Zealand, but it was full.
I was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, which, by all accounts, is very cold. And also hot. But when I was four months old, my parents moved back to the UK.
When I was 18 I moved to London and worked in the music industry (eventually). A few years later I moved back up north. Now I live in Lancashire (which is lovely, particularly when it's not raining... which is about two weeks a year) with my two sons and two guinea pigs. All four are cute and hairy.
I was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, which, by all accounts, is very cold. And also hot. But when I was four months old, my parents moved back to the UK.
When I was 18 I moved to London and worked in the music industry (eventually). A few years later I moved back up north. Now I live in Lancashire (which is lovely, particularly when it's not raining... which is about two weeks a year) with my two sons and two guinea pigs. All four are cute and hairy.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 124 reviews
February 15, 2019
Have you ever wondered why your life is such a mess and going nowhere, while your friends seem to have got it all together, living in beautiful houses with their wonderful children and hot and sexy and caring husbands?
Meet Cat. A former stand-up comedian, she is funny, intelligent, efficient at work, reliable, and an amazingly loyal friend. And yet, at the age of thirty, she is still living in a shared flat with nightmare roomies, her love life is non-existent, and the highlight of her week is taking her best friend’s son to see Santa’s grotto in a shopping centre. One day, she is reading a newspaper over a stranger’s shoulder on the Tube and sees that her ex, who left for Australia five years ago) is going to have a gig in London. Cat suspects parts of his routine might be about her, so how can she not go? During the gig she sees Harvey, her ex’s brother. Are relationships with your exes’ siblings always off-bounds? What if he is the One? Cat needs to sort her life and understand why the most important people in her life seem to leave her and go away.
What I liked about the book is how realistic it felt at times. The setting and practicalities of life (the nightmares of looking for a room in shared accommodation somewhere you can barely afford, packing your life in a few boxes and discarding the rest), the relationships, the Tube (yes, snow is magical). I loved the way the description of a stand-up venue was so vivid and full of sounds, smells and visual details, while Cat’s office remained uncharted territory (her heart and mind were not there, despite Cat being good at her job). Kelly, Cat’s BFF, is given such a prominent place in this book, that we almost fall in love with this no-nonsense-voice-of-reason-and-eternal-support girl.
It was a fast and enjoyable read. Highly recommended for somebody who likes comedy, banter, family relationships and thinks London is a fantastic setting for a light-hearted romantic book.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
Meet Cat. A former stand-up comedian, she is funny, intelligent, efficient at work, reliable, and an amazingly loyal friend. And yet, at the age of thirty, she is still living in a shared flat with nightmare roomies, her love life is non-existent, and the highlight of her week is taking her best friend’s son to see Santa’s grotto in a shopping centre. One day, she is reading a newspaper over a stranger’s shoulder on the Tube and sees that her ex, who left for Australia five years ago) is going to have a gig in London. Cat suspects parts of his routine might be about her, so how can she not go? During the gig she sees Harvey, her ex’s brother. Are relationships with your exes’ siblings always off-bounds? What if he is the One? Cat needs to sort her life and understand why the most important people in her life seem to leave her and go away.
What I liked about the book is how realistic it felt at times. The setting and practicalities of life (the nightmares of looking for a room in shared accommodation somewhere you can barely afford, packing your life in a few boxes and discarding the rest), the relationships, the Tube (yes, snow is magical). I loved the way the description of a stand-up venue was so vivid and full of sounds, smells and visual details, while Cat’s office remained uncharted territory (her heart and mind were not there, despite Cat being good at her job). Kelly, Cat’s BFF, is given such a prominent place in this book, that we almost fall in love with this no-nonsense-voice-of-reason-and-eternal-support girl.
It was a fast and enjoyable read. Highly recommended for somebody who likes comedy, banter, family relationships and thinks London is a fantastic setting for a light-hearted romantic book.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
April 12, 2019
I honestly don't know what to say. I liked the character Cat and her friendship with Kelly and how much she loved her, Kelly's son, and Kelly's husband. That said, the whole book revolves about her getting feelings for her ex's brother. If that part had been cut out I would have loved it.
Cat is a former stand up comic who quit after her ex-boyfriend Sam (also a comic) moved to Australia 5 years ago and never came back. Cat we find out has some abandonment issues. What I think is funny about it is that Cat tries to deny it, but then Kelly keeps pushing her to realize that she has abandonment issues. Seriously that is most of this book. Kelly sounds like the best friend ever. I would have strangled Cat after a while if she was a real life friend. She's a mess job-wise and socially too. She falls for every guy who is near her and when she realizes Sam is back, she ends up meeting Harvey (Sam's brother) all over again and feels twinges.
I think the biggest thing for me in the end is that I can't think of anyone being okay with the situation. It would have been more realistic to me if everyone said what the hell are you thinking. Also I think Harvey is at least 10 years younger than Sam? I can't recall right now, but I do know he's younger and I wondered at her being ready for a long term relationship and would someone at his age be ready for one too.
That said, the best parts of this book were when Cat was interacting with Kelly and her whole family. I loved that we got to see a bit of Cat's stand up in the end, but think that we should have gotten that in the prologue somewhere. We just get a brief set up of Cat and her being in love with Sam and then she is downstairs in the family home and being lustful towards Harvey. It was so weird.
This book was fairly short (only over 200 pages) so there's not a lot of development of secondary characters outside of Kelly and her family. Harvey felt blank to me and so did Sam. We kept hearing how much Cat loved Sam's family, but we should have gotten a sense of that in the prologue or somewhere with actual scenes showing them interacting.
In the end I can't complain too much, this was only $2.99 and it distracted me while flying all over the place the past couple of weeks.
Cat is a former stand up comic who quit after her ex-boyfriend Sam (also a comic) moved to Australia 5 years ago and never came back. Cat we find out has some abandonment issues. What I think is funny about it is that Cat tries to deny it, but then Kelly keeps pushing her to realize that she has abandonment issues. Seriously that is most of this book. Kelly sounds like the best friend ever. I would have strangled Cat after a while if she was a real life friend. She's a mess job-wise and socially too. She falls for every guy who is near her and when she realizes Sam is back, she ends up meeting Harvey (Sam's brother) all over again and feels twinges.
I think the biggest thing for me in the end is that I can't think of anyone being okay with the situation. It would have been more realistic to me if everyone said what the hell are you thinking. Also I think Harvey is at least 10 years younger than Sam? I can't recall right now, but I do know he's younger and I wondered at her being ready for a long term relationship and would someone at his age be ready for one too.
That said, the best parts of this book were when Cat was interacting with Kelly and her whole family. I loved that we got to see a bit of Cat's stand up in the end, but think that we should have gotten that in the prologue somewhere. We just get a brief set up of Cat and her being in love with Sam and then she is downstairs in the family home and being lustful towards Harvey. It was so weird.
This book was fairly short (only over 200 pages) so there's not a lot of development of secondary characters outside of Kelly and her family. Harvey felt blank to me and so did Sam. We kept hearing how much Cat loved Sam's family, but we should have gotten a sense of that in the prologue or somewhere with actual scenes showing them interacting.
In the end I can't complain too much, this was only $2.99 and it distracted me while flying all over the place the past couple of weeks.
March 11, 2019
After "It had to be you" by Keris Stainton to which I gave a 5 stars out of 5, I was really excited to read the new book from Keris, "The one who's not the one". To be honest, I didn't really enjoy the first 20 percent of the book, I even considered stopping my reading. But then I continued and it started to be a lot better and then even super good! I am giving this book a 4 starts out of 5! I really enjoy Keris Stainton's writing style, it's very unique. I really enjoyed the storyline and the characters. I will definitely wait impatiently for the next book by Keris Stainton!!!!!
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February 12, 2019[Gifted]
Keris has done it again! I can't emphasis how much I adore Keris' romance novels. I think about them regularly, and return to them to read my favourite scenes when I need something familiar. She creates such a safe and wonderful world, full of strong, realistic female friendships and great romantic leads.
Keris has done it again! I can't emphasis how much I adore Keris' romance novels. I think about them regularly, and return to them to read my favourite scenes when I need something familiar. She creates such a safe and wonderful world, full of strong, realistic female friendships and great romantic leads.
February 26, 2019
Five years ago Cat had it all, the boyfriend, the promising career in stand-up comedy. Then Sam, her boyfriend went to Australia and didn't invite her. Since then she's given up on the stand-up comedy, she flat shares with 'The One Who Eats All My Food' and 'The One Who Has Really Loud Sex', she has a job she despises (and that pays a pittance) and she hasn't had sex in two years.
Then one day, travelling home on the tube (train), she sees an article about Sam in the London Metro (newspaper), he's back from Australia, still doing stand-up comedy, and getting good reviews. Obsessed by the one that got away (just one in a long list of people that have left Cat), Cat stalks Sam on Facebook and Google and is determined to see his show, especially once she finds out it is entitled 'Cat Amongst the Pigeons' - is that a reference to her? Is his show all about her?
At Sam's show Cat runs into his younger brother Harvey, and then again when she takes her best friend Kelly's little boy to see Father Christmas at John Lewis (British department store).
Then sexy Nick at work announces he is moving to the new office in New York and asks Cat to join him - suddenly Cat has three potential beaus - which one will she choose?
I liked this, it was very down-to-earth, very realistic, this is the way that women talk to each other about men and relationships and sex (and willys). However, I did think that this was both very British and very 'of the moment' with references to current events which may make the book less accessible to readers from outside the UK and readers in a few years' time.
The book started a bit slowly for me, so much so that I stopped reading after a few chapters and reread the blurb, worried that I was reading a different book (easy to do when you have a TBR pile as big as mine) but it soon picked up again. reminiscent of Bridget Jones (without the dear diary entries) it was amusing and a fun read. My only criticism was that the ending was a bit too sudden (even with an epilogue), I would have liked there to have been more of a build up to the end.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Bumped for release.
Then one day, travelling home on the tube (train), she sees an article about Sam in the London Metro (newspaper), he's back from Australia, still doing stand-up comedy, and getting good reviews. Obsessed by the one that got away (just one in a long list of people that have left Cat), Cat stalks Sam on Facebook and Google and is determined to see his show, especially once she finds out it is entitled 'Cat Amongst the Pigeons' - is that a reference to her? Is his show all about her?
At Sam's show Cat runs into his younger brother Harvey, and then again when she takes her best friend Kelly's little boy to see Father Christmas at John Lewis (British department store).
Then sexy Nick at work announces he is moving to the new office in New York and asks Cat to join him - suddenly Cat has three potential beaus - which one will she choose?
I liked this, it was very down-to-earth, very realistic, this is the way that women talk to each other about men and relationships and sex (and willys). However, I did think that this was both very British and very 'of the moment' with references to current events which may make the book less accessible to readers from outside the UK and readers in a few years' time.
The book started a bit slowly for me, so much so that I stopped reading after a few chapters and reread the blurb, worried that I was reading a different book (easy to do when you have a TBR pile as big as mine) but it soon picked up again. reminiscent of Bridget Jones (without the dear diary entries) it was amusing and a fun read. My only criticism was that the ending was a bit too sudden (even with an epilogue), I would have liked there to have been more of a build up to the end.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Bumped for release.
February 26, 2019
This author really found the key to unlock my funny bone. There are so many hilarious conversations that you might pull a muscle if you are not careful. Sometimes people are trying to be witty and when you read it, you think : for real? That’s not how a speak to a friend, child, … But I never got that feeling here. It sounded all very natural.
To be honest, the whole story felt very much like it could happen to anyone. I think everybody might recognize one or more situations they have faced as well at one point in their lives. It makes you feel connected more because fiction can be very down to earth and not totally fairy tale-ish.
Cat is quiet a character. I wouldn’t mind having her as a friend.
A very enjoyable read that makes you go ‘hahahaha’ and ‘aaawww’. 4 stars.
Thank you, Keris Stainton, Bookouture and Netgalley.
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
To be honest, the whole story felt very much like it could happen to anyone. I think everybody might recognize one or more situations they have faced as well at one point in their lives. It makes you feel connected more because fiction can be very down to earth and not totally fairy tale-ish.
Cat is quiet a character. I wouldn’t mind having her as a friend.
A very enjoyable read that makes you go ‘hahahaha’ and ‘aaawww’. 4 stars.
Thank you, Keris Stainton, Bookouture and Netgalley.
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
February 2, 2019
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for providing an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This was my introduction to Keris Stainton’s writing, and I am officially hooked. This book is for all of those romantic comedy fans who are looking for that realistic and relatable love. I really enjoyed watching the development of Cat’s character and the struggles that she goes through because I could definitely see a lot of myself in her. Also, the humor was spot on. I can’t recommend this book enough.
Full review posted on my blog: thereadingchemist.com.
This was my introduction to Keris Stainton’s writing, and I am officially hooked. This book is for all of those romantic comedy fans who are looking for that realistic and relatable love. I really enjoyed watching the development of Cat’s character and the struggles that she goes through because I could definitely see a lot of myself in her. Also, the humor was spot on. I can’t recommend this book enough.
Full review posted on my blog: thereadingchemist.com.
February 22, 2019
2 STARS
YOU CAN ALSO FIND THIS REVIEW ON MY BLOG https://antonellasbookworld.blogspot....
I'm disappointed.
I just couldn't get hooked in the book. Sometimes it seemed like the author tried too much to make the story funny. I couldn't connect with the MC, Cat, who was too much annoying and dependent on her best friend. I couldn't just stand her.
The only two things I really liked about this book was the setting. London is my favourite city and I rarely find a book with London as a setting and I appreciated it. Also, Arnold, Kelly's son, was a cutie and I loved his character.
However, except for these two things, the story was boring. Nothing did happen, unless Cat having sex with Harvey is something you think that's worth to be considered interesting and important on this book. For me this book was just a woman who goes to her best friend's home whenever she has personal problems, she isn't capable of being on her own and who just keep complaining about her ex and her dad leaving her, when the reality is that she didn't have the guts to ask them what really happened and what she really thought about the situation. Also, the author tells us how good she was doing stand ups, but honestly she didn't seem so good to me at the end of the book, the only thing she said was how better she was than her ex.
I couldn't get through the book faster.
*Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for the advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
YOU CAN ALSO FIND THIS REVIEW ON MY BLOG https://antonellasbookworld.blogspot....
I'm disappointed.
I just couldn't get hooked in the book. Sometimes it seemed like the author tried too much to make the story funny. I couldn't connect with the MC, Cat, who was too much annoying and dependent on her best friend. I couldn't just stand her.
The only two things I really liked about this book was the setting. London is my favourite city and I rarely find a book with London as a setting and I appreciated it. Also, Arnold, Kelly's son, was a cutie and I loved his character.
However, except for these two things, the story was boring. Nothing did happen, unless Cat having sex with Harvey is something you think that's worth to be considered interesting and important on this book. For me this book was just a woman who goes to her best friend's home whenever she has personal problems, she isn't capable of being on her own and who just keep complaining about her ex and her dad leaving her, when the reality is that she didn't have the guts to ask them what really happened and what she really thought about the situation. Also, the author tells us how good she was doing stand ups, but honestly she didn't seem so good to me at the end of the book, the only thing she said was how better she was than her ex.
I couldn't get through the book faster.
*Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for the advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
March 4, 2019
So normally when I pick up a book and it has the tag line of a laugh out loud comedy like most people these days you are a bit sceptical. I mean is this really going to make me laugh out and loud?
Well, it only bloody went and did!
I picked this up at 6 pm and between bedtime and reading some of it to my little lady, watching the semi-final of Dancing of Ice, I finished it in one sitting. And I was laughing a LOT! I love Kelly and Cat!
I read The Invitation by Ms Stainton last year and I just fell in love. This book has reinforced my love for this author! The story is obvious to where we will go but the banter and the conversations are hilarious and make the book worth its weight in gold!! I mean there is so much of this book I want to share with you that had me cracking up but I really can’t you have to read it!
I did find that I did the small leaky eye trick nearer the end of the book but it’s ok, it’s raining if I stick my head out the window no one will know the difference. Cat, is a stand-up comedian and so is her ex, and they are both funny, Cat being better, their little antidotes they introduce in their routines flowed naturally just like this book. Then in everyday life, you see sparks of the comedy in Cats life. Her quips and one-liners were just timed perfectly, I mean I am sure I have used one or two…
Gah man!! Seriously I have a huge smile on my face from reading this book, I flew through it because I just adored the storyline. It was the perfect read for me, I needed after such an emotional and draining week. It is the perfect pick me up. It does make you laugh, it does make you smile and if you are like me an old fashioned romantic it reinforces love and finding love in the most unexpected places. To me this The One who’s Not the One, is like a Hollywood movie, and I live vicariously through them, this could be on the big screen! Lilly Collins as Cat maybe and have Sam Claflin as Harvey…maybe it’s because I loved them two in Love, Rosie great chemistry…anyway, I digress! It is just perfect!
I have no coherent words for this review it’s just all rambles! I should sit down and write a sensible review but where is the fun in that!
Cat and Kelly’s relationship is such a fun one, and one I would dream of having again, so in tune with each other. Random quips like you humping my cushions again said so nonchalantly were funny! Their friendship was such a strong bond and it carries you through the book, to me this was the best bit over the romance (sssh I didn’t say that really!). I did love the slow build up to the romance with the grand gesture at the end. It suited the book wonderfully and I can not wait to see what follows next for Ms Stanton. If I see Keris Stainton on a book I am picking it up for sure!
So if you are not sure what I thought about the book…well, I loved it!
Well, it only bloody went and did!
I picked this up at 6 pm and between bedtime and reading some of it to my little lady, watching the semi-final of Dancing of Ice, I finished it in one sitting. And I was laughing a LOT! I love Kelly and Cat!
I read The Invitation by Ms Stainton last year and I just fell in love. This book has reinforced my love for this author! The story is obvious to where we will go but the banter and the conversations are hilarious and make the book worth its weight in gold!! I mean there is so much of this book I want to share with you that had me cracking up but I really can’t you have to read it!
I did find that I did the small leaky eye trick nearer the end of the book but it’s ok, it’s raining if I stick my head out the window no one will know the difference. Cat, is a stand-up comedian and so is her ex, and they are both funny, Cat being better, their little antidotes they introduce in their routines flowed naturally just like this book. Then in everyday life, you see sparks of the comedy in Cats life. Her quips and one-liners were just timed perfectly, I mean I am sure I have used one or two…
Gah man!! Seriously I have a huge smile on my face from reading this book, I flew through it because I just adored the storyline. It was the perfect read for me, I needed after such an emotional and draining week. It is the perfect pick me up. It does make you laugh, it does make you smile and if you are like me an old fashioned romantic it reinforces love and finding love in the most unexpected places. To me this The One who’s Not the One, is like a Hollywood movie, and I live vicariously through them, this could be on the big screen! Lilly Collins as Cat maybe and have Sam Claflin as Harvey…maybe it’s because I loved them two in Love, Rosie great chemistry…anyway, I digress! It is just perfect!
I have no coherent words for this review it’s just all rambles! I should sit down and write a sensible review but where is the fun in that!
Cat and Kelly’s relationship is such a fun one, and one I would dream of having again, so in tune with each other. Random quips like you humping my cushions again said so nonchalantly were funny! Their friendship was such a strong bond and it carries you through the book, to me this was the best bit over the romance (sssh I didn’t say that really!). I did love the slow build up to the romance with the grand gesture at the end. It suited the book wonderfully and I can not wait to see what follows next for Ms Stanton. If I see Keris Stainton on a book I am picking it up for sure!
So if you are not sure what I thought about the book…well, I loved it!
March 11, 2019
It runs in the family
4,5 stars
I was actually surprised how much I liked this chick-lit! I think it was mostly the humour that really appealed to me (Cat and Kelly together are great!), and the story was quite cute as well. Cat keeps bumping into Harvey, the little brother of her ex-boyfriend Sam, and enjoys their time together. But doesn't the inofficial 'Guide to Dating' state that hitting it of with the sibling of an ex is out of the question? Or is it ok to swap brothers?
The characters are very likeable, the writing style and especially the humorous tone of the story was right up my alley. I've never read a scene about a woman in labour that was so authentic and also funny (don't fear, she spares us all the really gory details!). The only thing that bothered me was the constant use of the F-word, especially in places where it doesn't fit the general tone at all. I have absolutely no problem with swear words whenever they are suitable. But saying "Thanks f*ck" or other phrases like that just seemed quite odd to me. (Also I would have thought that the British rather use 'bloody', but when I think about it - there were quite a few F-words in "Four weddings and a funeral" as well).
I didn't find the title of the book really fitting, and I would have loved to get a glimpse at some actual stand-up comedy stuff here, this part of the story could have been way more elaborate. But as I said I really enjoyed reading this book.
4,5 starsI was actually surprised how much I liked this chick-lit! I think it was mostly the humour that really appealed to me (Cat and Kelly together are great!), and the story was quite cute as well. Cat keeps bumping into Harvey, the little brother of her ex-boyfriend Sam, and enjoys their time together. But doesn't the inofficial 'Guide to Dating' state that hitting it of with the sibling of an ex is out of the question? Or is it ok to swap brothers?
The characters are very likeable, the writing style and especially the humorous tone of the story was right up my alley. I've never read a scene about a woman in labour that was so authentic and also funny (don't fear, she spares us all the really gory details!). The only thing that bothered me was the constant use of the F-word, especially in places where it doesn't fit the general tone at all. I have absolutely no problem with swear words whenever they are suitable. But saying "Thanks f*ck" or other phrases like that just seemed quite odd to me. (Also I would have thought that the British rather use 'bloody', but when I think about it - there were quite a few F-words in "Four weddings and a funeral" as well).
I didn't find the title of the book really fitting, and I would have loved to get a glimpse at some actual stand-up comedy stuff here, this part of the story could have been way more elaborate. But as I said I really enjoyed reading this book.
February 21, 2019
Didn’t really care for this. The concept was good but the book was plagued with too many problems. For starters the lead character Cat was so very annoying and unable to even take care of herself or make her own decisions as an adult. She had to look to her best friend for everything. I’m surprised Cat didn’t ask Kelly when to pee or breathe.
Also the whole Sam and Harvey thing skeeved me out. Yeah it is weird to have relationships and sex with two brothers. Then there’s the comedy thing. When Cat finally gets on stage all she does is tell the audience she was better than Sam at comedy and that ticked him off and secondly uses her stage time to confess something. I guess they borrowed the “my partner is mad I’m better at comedy than they are” plot from The Marvelous Mrs Maisel 😞 which was a bit icky.
So I guess this just didn’t work for me for a number of reasons. Thanks to NetGalley for providing my copy.
Also the whole Sam and Harvey thing skeeved me out. Yeah it is weird to have relationships and sex with two brothers. Then there’s the comedy thing. When Cat finally gets on stage all she does is tell the audience she was better than Sam at comedy and that ticked him off and secondly uses her stage time to confess something. I guess they borrowed the “my partner is mad I’m better at comedy than they are” plot from The Marvelous Mrs Maisel 😞 which was a bit icky.
So I guess this just didn’t work for me for a number of reasons. Thanks to NetGalley for providing my copy.
January 30, 2019
I absolutely loved this book. I would have read it one sitting if I could have done. It's warm and funny and the characters are so relatable. There were so many aspects of Cat's life that felt familiar to my own, this only strengthened my love of both her and the book. Her friendship with Kelly is wonderful and made me appreciate the Kellys in my life. And then of course we have the very lovely Harvey, even though I could understand Cat's reluctance I was rooting for them to find their way so hard. Another triumph of a book!
Thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for the advance copy.
Thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for the advance copy.
February 5, 2019
Thank you Netgalley for the early copy!
Oh look another Keris book I absolutely adored! I think this is possibly my favourite (sorry to all the other books) I instantly fell in love with Cat, Kelly and Harvey! Oh my god, Harvey what a soft space nerd! I love him!
Cat felt so very real and I just want to sit and have a glass of wine with her and Kelly! I just love Keris' books, they all feel like one big hug from a friend.
Oh look another Keris book I absolutely adored! I think this is possibly my favourite (sorry to all the other books) I instantly fell in love with Cat, Kelly and Harvey! Oh my god, Harvey what a soft space nerd! I love him!
Cat felt so very real and I just want to sit and have a glass of wine with her and Kelly! I just love Keris' books, they all feel like one big hug from a friend.
May 18, 2020
3.5 stars
"The point is that it's good to tell people how you feel, get things off your chest, clear the air!"
"But sometimes maybe it would be nice just to have someone kiss you gently on the forehead before you fell asleep. It was just a shame it would always be followed by pain."
"Feel the fear and do it anyway," Kelly said. "It's a whole thing. Also: outside your comfort zone is where the magic happens."
"The point is that it's good to tell people how you feel, get things off your chest, clear the air!"
"But sometimes maybe it would be nice just to have someone kiss you gently on the forehead before you fell asleep. It was just a shame it would always be followed by pain."
"Feel the fear and do it anyway," Kelly said. "It's a whole thing. Also: outside your comfort zone is where the magic happens."
February 1, 2019
The One Who's Not The One is a fun romcom. Cat has boyfriend problems. Sam, her last boyfriend, abandoned her and went to Australia. Now, she pushes people away. With the help of her friends, she might get a another chance at love. Cat is a flawed relatable character. She's likeable and engaging. The story is a fun read for fans of romcoms. I enjoyed the story. Thanks to NetGalley for an arc in exchange for an honest review.
March 4, 2019
Five years ago, Cat and her boyfriend were both doing stand up comedy and life was moving forward. Then Sam went off to Australia to ‘gig’ and never asked Cat if she wanted to go. She, of course, felt this was the fulfillment of the repeating issue in her life – everyone leaves. And rather than asking Sam to stay, or go along with him with help from friends and his family she stayed behind. Now in a crappy flat share, working as an accountant in a job that bores her, her one real friend Kelly and her husband Sean have always been about to pick up the pieces – and occasionally offer her a bit of tough love.
See, Cat’s been pushing people away since she was 12 and her father left. She never really got an answer from her mother about the specifics, and has never forgiven or even really allowed her father a chance to explain, and with her best work friend transferring to New York and her spotting an ad for Sam performing in town, she’s full of ‘what if’s’ and questions. With her best friend pregnant with her second child, and Cat being ‘honorary auntie’ to her older son, Cat finds herself running into Sam’s brother Harvey and sparks are flying. Kelly thinks that Cat should explore this new thing with Harvey, Cat is in the middle of a push-pull with him, and tossing about the idea of moving to New York. But when she’s given notice on her flat share, and her trip to New York to ‘explore’ options leaves her more intrigued (and confused) than ever, she’s pushed to make some choices.
Cat was a bit of a struggle for me, and fortunately (or sadly) the only one challenging her on the running away and pushing others away was Kelly – and she truly tried desperately to push Kelly away and aside when some hard truths were brought up. Cat was all too willing to quickly dismiss people, confirming her “everyone leaves’ statements, and being butthurt when her overreactions aren’t instantly met with ingratiating adjustments and soothing. As a friend, Cat would have been exhausting and superficial – who needs the aggro of all that ‘making up’ on a near constant rotation from someone old enough to speak their mind and ask for what they want? But, it takes some doing, and a determination from her father that we never would have expected, to get her to finally start to see sense – and take those chances she’d only dreamed of. Stainton brought a lovely story here with a frustrating protagonist who has so much potential all hidden behind a childish wall of fear, with friends who really carried the burden of her misapplied emotions and pushed her to stand and face her problems and see what was presented as an opportunity.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
See, Cat’s been pushing people away since she was 12 and her father left. She never really got an answer from her mother about the specifics, and has never forgiven or even really allowed her father a chance to explain, and with her best work friend transferring to New York and her spotting an ad for Sam performing in town, she’s full of ‘what if’s’ and questions. With her best friend pregnant with her second child, and Cat being ‘honorary auntie’ to her older son, Cat finds herself running into Sam’s brother Harvey and sparks are flying. Kelly thinks that Cat should explore this new thing with Harvey, Cat is in the middle of a push-pull with him, and tossing about the idea of moving to New York. But when she’s given notice on her flat share, and her trip to New York to ‘explore’ options leaves her more intrigued (and confused) than ever, she’s pushed to make some choices.
Cat was a bit of a struggle for me, and fortunately (or sadly) the only one challenging her on the running away and pushing others away was Kelly – and she truly tried desperately to push Kelly away and aside when some hard truths were brought up. Cat was all too willing to quickly dismiss people, confirming her “everyone leaves’ statements, and being butthurt when her overreactions aren’t instantly met with ingratiating adjustments and soothing. As a friend, Cat would have been exhausting and superficial – who needs the aggro of all that ‘making up’ on a near constant rotation from someone old enough to speak their mind and ask for what they want? But, it takes some doing, and a determination from her father that we never would have expected, to get her to finally start to see sense – and take those chances she’d only dreamed of. Stainton brought a lovely story here with a frustrating protagonist who has so much potential all hidden behind a childish wall of fear, with friends who really carried the burden of her misapplied emotions and pushed her to stand and face her problems and see what was presented as an opportunity.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
April 22, 2019
The tagline on this book says it all….’A Feel-Good, Laugh Out-Loud, Romantic Comedy’. Those words describe this book to a tee. I’m a fan of Keris Stainton’s books. I know exactly what I’m getting when I crack open the cover…a fun adventure that’s sure to make me laugh, with exceptional characters to boot. The One Who’s Not the One was no exception.
The main character is Cat (LOVE that name!). She’s in a rut, being broken up from her boyfriend for 5 years, at the same monotonous job for several years, and getting the most excitement by visiting her best friends family (including her elementary aged son). She’s stuck, and her love life is on reverse, if that’s even possible! When her past becomes her present, things start to look up for Cat. She’s in for a whirlwind of surprises and change.
There were parts in this book where I literally laughed out loud. Cat’s behavior (and language) is so crass it’s comical. She is blunt and comedic, sharing her voice at times when it may not be necessary to do so. But, this character is full of depth…dealing with a fear of abandonment.
I enjoyed this fast paced book. Be forewarned though, if you are easily offended then Cat’s mouth might put you off. If not, then I hope you enjoy!
The main character is Cat (LOVE that name!). She’s in a rut, being broken up from her boyfriend for 5 years, at the same monotonous job for several years, and getting the most excitement by visiting her best friends family (including her elementary aged son). She’s stuck, and her love life is on reverse, if that’s even possible! When her past becomes her present, things start to look up for Cat. She’s in for a whirlwind of surprises and change.
There were parts in this book where I literally laughed out loud. Cat’s behavior (and language) is so crass it’s comical. She is blunt and comedic, sharing her voice at times when it may not be necessary to do so. But, this character is full of depth…dealing with a fear of abandonment.
I enjoyed this fast paced book. Be forewarned though, if you are easily offended then Cat’s mouth might put you off. If not, then I hope you enjoy!
March 1, 2019
Cat is a bit of a worry - she is in her late 20's, hasn't had a relationship in several years and thinks she might be in love with her ex's brother. She also shares a tiny flat with inconsiderate flatmates, has a job that she doesn't really love and a non-existent relationship with her dad. She has a best friend, however, Kelly, who is close to sainthood. Kelly has a delish son, whom Cat borrows so she can sniff his hair to get her little boy fix :) Kelly, seriously, is an amazing friend - I want a Kelly in my life too!
This was an easy-read kind of book, very modern, and probably not a great fit for my demographic. I am sure that younger women will probably relate to it a bit better. My main issue with this story is that Cat seems terribly immature and I wanted to slap her once or twice for shooting herself in the foot and for being so reactive to every darn issue that comes her way.
It was a good read, just not a great one, not for me anyway, sorry.
4 stars from me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture.
This was an easy-read kind of book, very modern, and probably not a great fit for my demographic. I am sure that younger women will probably relate to it a bit better. My main issue with this story is that Cat seems terribly immature and I wanted to slap her once or twice for shooting herself in the foot and for being so reactive to every darn issue that comes her way.
It was a good read, just not a great one, not for me anyway, sorry.
4 stars from me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture.
February 18, 2019
3.5 Stars
This book was marketed as a sort of forbidden romance with an ex' brother, but I found that the relationship with Cat and Harvey was the least interesting aspect of the book. Maybe because Cat was so self-sabotaging that it grated on my nerves and I couldn't really see how Harvey was attracted to that.
My favorite scenes were with Cat and her best friend Kelly! Kelly somehow made Cat seem more likeable which is obviously an issue when this is supposed to be a romance and you're supposed to be invested in the ROMANCE aspect of things.
It was a bit of a slog to get through to be honest and felt extremely "Bridget Jones' Diary" in the way that Cat's characters was presented. Overall not a terrible read, but not an interesting one either.
I received a copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book was marketed as a sort of forbidden romance with an ex' brother, but I found that the relationship with Cat and Harvey was the least interesting aspect of the book. Maybe because Cat was so self-sabotaging that it grated on my nerves and I couldn't really see how Harvey was attracted to that.
My favorite scenes were with Cat and her best friend Kelly! Kelly somehow made Cat seem more likeable which is obviously an issue when this is supposed to be a romance and you're supposed to be invested in the ROMANCE aspect of things.
It was a bit of a slog to get through to be honest and felt extremely "Bridget Jones' Diary" in the way that Cat's characters was presented. Overall not a terrible read, but not an interesting one either.
I received a copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 25, 2019
Really enjoyed this one!
New-to-me author Keris Stainton has a delightful writing vibe. I felt the a similar smile on my reading face as when I first read L. H. Cosway and her everyday British-girl stories.
I know that this one is tagged as a Romance, and, yes, there is certainly romance, but for me two things stood out: Cat's personal growth and value of friendship between her and Kelly.
"Will you come with me?"
Kelly groaned. 'Oh god. I suppose so.'
"This is why you're my best friend."
'I know,' Kelly said. 'It's a nightmare.'
I loved these two! #sistersister So I'm marking this on my list as Womens Literature with a side of romance ;)
For me, their "womance" was heartwarming. Her relationship with Arnold was childishly delicious. Heartbreaking to watch her sort out her feelings for Sam and Harvey. And her inner realizations that it was time to move forward and find her "happy"kept me reading straight thru till she seized it by the cahonas!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my very own. I recommend it to anyone who wants to smile the whole time they are reading!
New-to-me author Keris Stainton has a delightful writing vibe. I felt the a similar smile on my reading face as when I first read L. H. Cosway and her everyday British-girl stories.
I know that this one is tagged as a Romance, and, yes, there is certainly romance, but for me two things stood out: Cat's personal growth and value of friendship between her and Kelly.
"Will you come with me?"
Kelly groaned. 'Oh god. I suppose so.'
"This is why you're my best friend."
'I know,' Kelly said. 'It's a nightmare.'
I loved these two! #sistersister So I'm marking this on my list as Womens Literature with a side of romance ;)
For me, their "womance" was heartwarming. Her relationship with Arnold was childishly delicious. Heartbreaking to watch her sort out her feelings for Sam and Harvey. And her inner realizations that it was time to move forward and find her "happy"kept me reading straight thru till she seized it by the cahonas!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my very own. I recommend it to anyone who wants to smile the whole time they are reading!
March 17, 2019
Oh, how I loved this book!
Flawed protagonist Cat was so easy to root for, and I loved watching her grow with the support of her friends. Little Arnold was hilarious too and I totally developed a book crush on hottie Harvey.
Really funny, engaging and utterly joyful, Keris Stainton never fails to make me smile with her wonderful, original novels.
Flawed protagonist Cat was so easy to root for, and I loved watching her grow with the support of her friends. Little Arnold was hilarious too and I totally developed a book crush on hottie Harvey.
Really funny, engaging and utterly joyful, Keris Stainton never fails to make me smile with her wonderful, original novels.
October 20, 2020
Really enjoyed the story itself, but i often felt like I was missing information and that I couldn’t quite understand how much time had passed between two paragraphs. That just was a little bit confusing and it made you think you skipped a page or something. 😕
Besides that the story was really nice :)
Besides that the story was really nice :)
February 8, 2019
Really lovely read about finding yourself and following your dreams
February 8, 2019
It's a feel good read that I enjoyed. My usual genre is crime fiction so this was refreshing and funny. Everyone should have a friend like Kelly that has your back regardless. I was given this to read in exchange for my honest opinion and I would like to thank the publishers and netgalley for letting me have the book to review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 23, 2019
A fun romantic book, but it had more life than just romance too.
March 10, 2019
Cat and Sam were both stand-up comedians when they were dating. Sam left for Australia, leaving Cat behind but now he's back, with a new show. That could possibly be about her.
Meanwhile, Sam's sexy brother Harvey is also back on the scene, but even if Cat is attracted to him, she shouldn't go there, right? With massive changes on the horizon, Cat needs to figure out what she wants - and if she's brave enough to get it.
I love Keris' writing, I love the pop culture references and the sharp humour. I liked all the characters, I loved the friendship between Cat and Kelly, and I fell head over heels for Harvey. This was a perfect, sweet, romantic read with a bit of substance too.
Meanwhile, Sam's sexy brother Harvey is also back on the scene, but even if Cat is attracted to him, she shouldn't go there, right? With massive changes on the horizon, Cat needs to figure out what she wants - and if she's brave enough to get it.
I love Keris' writing, I love the pop culture references and the sharp humour. I liked all the characters, I loved the friendship between Cat and Kelly, and I fell head over heels for Harvey. This was a perfect, sweet, romantic read with a bit of substance too.
February 5, 2019
Enjoyed this a great deal,
Cat has an office job, shares a flat with slobs who pinch her food and drink, life is pretty dull, though made lighter by her friendship with her best friend and her family.
The story gets interesting when Cat’s ex, a stand up comic who left 5 years ago to go to Australia returns to the area to do standup. Attending the show (despite being recommended not to by her friend) brings her into contact with her ex’s brother, Harvey, who has matured from gawky youth to a very handsome man. Cat and Harvey are mutually attracted to each other but as far as Cat is concerned, you can’t have a relationship with your ex’s brother.
Cat is an extremely likeable character, as are most of the characters in this story.
I raced through this, it was a fun, easy read.
Thank you to Bookouture and Netgalley for the ARC and giving me the opportunity to read this in exchange for my honest review.
Cat has an office job, shares a flat with slobs who pinch her food and drink, life is pretty dull, though made lighter by her friendship with her best friend and her family.
The story gets interesting when Cat’s ex, a stand up comic who left 5 years ago to go to Australia returns to the area to do standup. Attending the show (despite being recommended not to by her friend) brings her into contact with her ex’s brother, Harvey, who has matured from gawky youth to a very handsome man. Cat and Harvey are mutually attracted to each other but as far as Cat is concerned, you can’t have a relationship with your ex’s brother.
Cat is an extremely likeable character, as are most of the characters in this story.
I raced through this, it was a fun, easy read.
Thank you to Bookouture and Netgalley for the ARC and giving me the opportunity to read this in exchange for my honest review.
June 19, 2019
This is the kind of fun-romance you'd like to see in the movies. Cat's life doesn't seem to be going anywhere. Since she got ditched by her now ex-boyfriend, she leans on her bestfriend, who has a perfect love, a perfect son and a perfect life.
But what if he comes back to town? And what if she got a job offer in a different place?
This book is compulsively readable, light, fun and if you are a little like me, you will find so many affinities with Cat that you will want to read it all at once to know if there's hope for everyone.
Thanks Keris Stainton and NetGalley for letting me read it!
But what if he comes back to town? And what if she got a job offer in a different place?
This book is compulsively readable, light, fun and if you are a little like me, you will find so many affinities with Cat that you will want to read it all at once to know if there's hope for everyone.
Thanks Keris Stainton and NetGalley for letting me read it!
February 4, 2019
A lovely story about love, life and friendship. One to read either on a cold day to make you feel warm and fuzzy or on a hot day to just enjoy the ride. Fantastic characters and a great storyline. Make this one book not to miss out on.
Merged review:
A lovely story about love, life and friendship. One to read either on a cold day to make you feel warm and fuzzy or on a hot day to just enjoy the ride. Fantastic characters and a great storyline. Make this one book not to miss out on.
Merged review:
A lovely story about love, life and friendship. One to read either on a cold day to make you feel warm and fuzzy or on a hot day to just enjoy the ride. Fantastic characters and a great storyline. Make this one book not to miss out on.
February 19, 2019
I loved this , was a touch slower in pace than a lot of the similar reads like this, but it suited the story. I loved Cat and her friend Kelly, plenty of humour and just the right amount of romance. Not cheesy just nice. A great read for cheering yourself up or to feel happy, books that have the ability to do this are underrated and this is definitely a arm fuzzy feelings book. Loved it.
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