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One?
It's London in the mid-noughties before Facebook, iPhones and ubiquitous wifi, and One? follows the highs and lows of a group of twenty-somethings living in leafy SW4. Zara has just moved to London for her first real job and struggles to find her feet in a big city with no instruction manual. Penelope works night and day in an investment bank with little or no time for love. At 28 she is positively ancient as far as her mother is concerned and the pressure is on for her to settle down as the big 3-0 is looming. Charlie spends night and day with his band who are constantly teetering on the verge of greatness. Richard has relocated to London from his castle in Scotland in search of the one , and Alyx is barely in one place long enough to hold down a relationship let alone think about the future.
356 pages, Paperback
Published June 21, 2018
2 people are currently reading
1453 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer L. Cahill
1 book42 followersI am a contemporary fiction author, based in London and I'm currently working on two different book series. My first book 'One?' is the first book in my #123Trilogy and it's out now. I'll be posting an update on my current work in progress, publication dates and much more on Goodreads.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
August 7, 2019
Book Reviewed on www.whisperingstories.com
Penelope, Charlie, and Zara are all in their twenties and are flatmates living in London above a pub. Penelope and Charlie first became friends whilst at university but when Charlie dropped out they lost touch, that was until a chance encounter on a stuck train.
The two reconnect and then with both needing somewhere to live they join forces and move in together. On returning with their items to their new rental property they found a woman already inside unpacking her things. Zara had been offered the flat too. Luckily for them, the place had four bedrooms and they were going to get more flatmates so it saved them the bother.
Penelope is a successful banker with a mother who has high expectations of her daughter, especially as she is nearing thirty and yet to settle down. She is confident, looks good and never short of a man or two but are they long-term material?
Charlie is a struggling musician in a rock bank. Music is his passion – and reason for dropping out of university, he also likes the ladies that crave after him. Zara is a quiet young woman who has moved to the capital from a small welsh town to work for an agency. She doesn’t know the place nor anyone in it and though she craves for home she also wants to make it in the capital.
Set during the early 2000s this book is about these people learning to grown into their adult life and the pleasure and pain that goes alongside it, and dating.
The book began in 1979 with Penelope as a child and then moved forward to 2000s. There are plenty of references to the early 2000s such a music, films and TV programmes that it’s hard not to feel nostalgic whilst reading.
The chapters all have fun titles which give you a hint as to what you are about to encounter in each. The pace is good and the story ebbed and flowed in my interest, some chapters I flew through and enjoyed, others I did find a bit of a chore, partly because I couldn’t warm to Penelope. She was someone who tried to hide her real self from others making herself less posh and greedy – such as hiding the fact of how many pairs of shoes she had. Yet at other times she tried to up herself. She was someone I really wouldn’t have been able to take to in real life.
My only other little niggle is, there is a lot of ‘thoughts’ in this book. As the author has written passages about what each of them is thinking throughout. This became a distraction after a while and I began skipping over these sections. Whilst this might work for some readers for me it didn’t.
The book is humorous in places and did make me smile a lot. If you are after an easy laid back read that will have you reminiscing over the past then this is your book. It will also show you how you went about finding the ‘One’ back in the early 2000s!
Penelope, Charlie, and Zara are all in their twenties and are flatmates living in London above a pub. Penelope and Charlie first became friends whilst at university but when Charlie dropped out they lost touch, that was until a chance encounter on a stuck train.
The two reconnect and then with both needing somewhere to live they join forces and move in together. On returning with their items to their new rental property they found a woman already inside unpacking her things. Zara had been offered the flat too. Luckily for them, the place had four bedrooms and they were going to get more flatmates so it saved them the bother.
Penelope is a successful banker with a mother who has high expectations of her daughter, especially as she is nearing thirty and yet to settle down. She is confident, looks good and never short of a man or two but are they long-term material?
Charlie is a struggling musician in a rock bank. Music is his passion – and reason for dropping out of university, he also likes the ladies that crave after him. Zara is a quiet young woman who has moved to the capital from a small welsh town to work for an agency. She doesn’t know the place nor anyone in it and though she craves for home she also wants to make it in the capital.
Set during the early 2000s this book is about these people learning to grown into their adult life and the pleasure and pain that goes alongside it, and dating.
The book began in 1979 with Penelope as a child and then moved forward to 2000s. There are plenty of references to the early 2000s such a music, films and TV programmes that it’s hard not to feel nostalgic whilst reading.
The chapters all have fun titles which give you a hint as to what you are about to encounter in each. The pace is good and the story ebbed and flowed in my interest, some chapters I flew through and enjoyed, others I did find a bit of a chore, partly because I couldn’t warm to Penelope. She was someone who tried to hide her real self from others making herself less posh and greedy – such as hiding the fact of how many pairs of shoes she had. Yet at other times she tried to up herself. She was someone I really wouldn’t have been able to take to in real life.
My only other little niggle is, there is a lot of ‘thoughts’ in this book. As the author has written passages about what each of them is thinking throughout. This became a distraction after a while and I began skipping over these sections. Whilst this might work for some readers for me it didn’t.
The book is humorous in places and did make me smile a lot. If you are after an easy laid back read that will have you reminiscing over the past then this is your book. It will also show you how you went about finding the ‘One’ back in the early 2000s!
April 28, 2019
The story opens with a childhood memory where a five-year-old Alyx is asked what he wants to be when he grows up, to which he proudly responds a Beatle. The teacher becomes irrationally angry with Alyx the proceeds to Penelope, who informs the class that she wants to be a princess. The teacher forces both Alyx and Penelope to stay after class to discuss what 'real career aspirations' are. I was definitely annoyed by this teacher because why should a child be chided over what is deemed an appropriate career choice at that age is beyond me.
We fast forward to the present day of the story, which follows the lives of three main characters: Penelope, Charlie, and Zara. Penelope and Charlie have known each other for years as they went to University together. After finally finding a flat that they agreed upon in London, there was a misunderstanding from the leasing agent, and Zara was promised the place as well. Since Penelope and Charlie were already planning on finding an additional two flatmates to cover the remaining rent, they all decided to make a go of it.
Zara is originally from a small Welsh town, so she has a bit of a hard time adjusting to the hustle and bustle of big city life in London. She's working her first big girl job after uni, and she's not used to a life where she's not surrounded by her booming social life. Her only friend is her work colleague Rob, who is the source of office gossip and a good happy hour.
After reading One?, I would not necessarily classify this book as a contemporary romance because that's not really the main focus for the first half of the book. The first half of the book focuses on the daily lives of Penelope, Charlie, and Zara and their interactions with one another. Zara definitely views Penelope as 'Miss Perfect' until she finally takes the time actually get to know her. Charlie, well Charlie just sleeps with anything that walks since he's in the music industry and is all about that Rock'N'Roll life. Additionally, I loved George, Penelope's best friend Georgina, who is brutally honest and hilarious.
Without giving too much of the plot away, I also liked watching Penelope have to navigate her love life and figure out who the one would be: Richard Lord (the wealthy Scot) or Alyx (the boy she always knew).
Overall, this is a fun read that really goes into navigating relationships in the modern world while also trying to navigate life as a twenty/thirty-something. I definitely found the characters and their situations relatable, which reminded me of how I first navigated life after university.
Thank you to the author for providing an ebook in exchange for an honest review. It did not influence my review, and all opinions are my own.
We fast forward to the present day of the story, which follows the lives of three main characters: Penelope, Charlie, and Zara. Penelope and Charlie have known each other for years as they went to University together. After finally finding a flat that they agreed upon in London, there was a misunderstanding from the leasing agent, and Zara was promised the place as well. Since Penelope and Charlie were already planning on finding an additional two flatmates to cover the remaining rent, they all decided to make a go of it.
Zara is originally from a small Welsh town, so she has a bit of a hard time adjusting to the hustle and bustle of big city life in London. She's working her first big girl job after uni, and she's not used to a life where she's not surrounded by her booming social life. Her only friend is her work colleague Rob, who is the source of office gossip and a good happy hour.
After reading One?, I would not necessarily classify this book as a contemporary romance because that's not really the main focus for the first half of the book. The first half of the book focuses on the daily lives of Penelope, Charlie, and Zara and their interactions with one another. Zara definitely views Penelope as 'Miss Perfect' until she finally takes the time actually get to know her. Charlie, well Charlie just sleeps with anything that walks since he's in the music industry and is all about that Rock'N'Roll life. Additionally, I loved George, Penelope's best friend Georgina, who is brutally honest and hilarious.
Without giving too much of the plot away, I also liked watching Penelope have to navigate her love life and figure out who the one would be: Richard Lord (the wealthy Scot) or Alyx (the boy she always knew).
Overall, this is a fun read that really goes into navigating relationships in the modern world while also trying to navigate life as a twenty/thirty-something. I definitely found the characters and their situations relatable, which reminded me of how I first navigated life after university.
Thank you to the author for providing an ebook in exchange for an honest review. It did not influence my review, and all opinions are my own.
November 20, 2018
What a fun chic-lit book to read. The cover is interesting and creative. Apartment hunting in London is not easy as housing is at a premium. Penelope and Charlie find an apartment and the landlady says they can have it. Ready to move in they see another young woman already there moved in. The landlady also said she could have the place. What a mixed up, mess up! Not knowing if the 3 of them should try to get along or fight about the mix up they contact the land lady. They all end up friends and Penelope takes Zara under her wing. Zara is the exact opposite of Penelope. What Penelope is self confident with men,her job and has character development Zara does not. Now this doesn't mean she doesn't want it she doesn't have it, yet. Penelope shows Zara the ropes as far as living in London,navigating the tube to work, etc. Penelope has a great support system when she needs it with her friends just a phone call away any time of the day or night. It was fun to see the development of these characters as the book progressed and I was rooting all the way for underdog, Zara. It was wonderful to see her maturity and self-confidence blossom. It was also a great thing to see a character back out of a big thing that just didn't feel right to her no matter what anyone may say or think. The self worth of a woman is so important no matter how they may judge us. Even though this is a debut author this is not written like a debut book and I look forward to reading more by this author.
Publication date June 21,2018
I was given a complimentary copy of this book by the author. Thank you! All opinions expressed are my own.
Publication date June 21,2018
I was given a complimentary copy of this book by the author. Thank you! All opinions expressed are my own.
May 12, 2021
This book would make a really cute romcom movie! I liked how many perspectives we were given as we got to understand lots of the characters. I would've loved more insight into Charlie though.
Just to be picky, I have to address the amount of ... (ellipses?) used as I thought it was a little excessive, and it really drew me out of the story sometimes!
Just to be picky, I have to address the amount of ... (ellipses?) used as I thought it was a little excessive, and it really drew me out of the story sometimes!
dnf
October 23, 2019 DNF at 9% - 33 pages
Thank you to the author for providing a free e-copy in exchange for an honest review. My apologies for DNFing it so soon. Receving a free copy has in no way affected my opinion on the book.
I generally try my very best to get at least 25% into a book before I put it down, but some books - you just know that it won't work and it doesn't make sense to keep trudging through it. I won't give a star rating or a proper review, just highlight my reasons of DNF'ing One?
The writing style simply does not work for me. One? reads like gossip from a rambly aunt who goes on wild tangents, tells the story disjointedly and points out obvious parts blatantly. The kind of gossip that makes me sigh and wish we could talk about something else. In fact, One? feels like it wasn't so much written as it was spoken out loud and then transcribed on paper. While I do talk and text the way One? is narrated, I do not want to read a book written in this style; it comes across as jumpy, exaggerating and disjointed.
The writing style hits on one of my major pet peeves; the frequent usage of ellipsis (…), exclamation marks, double exclamation marks, and stretched out words like sooooo. I don't mind these when texting but I hate to encounter them when enjoying a novel. Especially the frequency of ellipsis took me completely out of the story. These stylistic choices didn't seem necessary, and I felt like some parts were yelled because of unnessecary exclamation points and fast paced parts were irrationally slowed down by ellipsis.
From about 4%:
[S]he loved the room, she could actually see herself fitting all… well nearly all… of her shoes into the built-in wardrobes…
From about 3%
'I'm not sure… we'll definitely have to get two more in.' Charlie saw no major issue with living with strangers, it was all part of the adventure of life…
'I thought we agreed just one unknown.' Penelope really liked her home comforts…
I was also irritated by how often the narration was filled with obvious things being stated outright. One? had a tendency to explain things that were very clear already from the context and the writing started to fell jarring.
From about 5%
Finding the right flat in the right location, is an essential make or break step towards happinness or complete misery in London. It's important to live near, if not with, some friends, and of course the all-important transport links. Clapham South was perfect for Charlie and Penelope on both accounts.
The above was already very clear from the dialogue between the main characters and it felt like a bit that a rambly aunt would add to their story to emphasise how she thinks that the listener has no idea how renting a flat works. But anyone who has ever rented a flat anywhere knows those things already.
One? also included useless bits that were not relevant in any way and should have been edited out.
From about 4%
Mrs Evan's glasses had been on her head the whole time that she had been looking for them… but nobody mentioned this…
The writing style is disjointed and it feels odd to read. For example, at 9% Penelope mentions that they could go get drinks and asks Charlie and Zara about their plans. Two paragraphs of plan-discussion later, we get this: "The mere mention of alcohol perked Zara up immediately". But the alcohol was mentioned much earlier, I don't think it is an immediate reaction from Zara's part if it took so long to be initiated.
While I don't want to comment the plot much, I'll mention my view on the characters shortly. As a whole, they all felt like stereotyped caricatures. Penelope seemed way too juvenile for her age.
From about 3%
[L]iving back at home was no fun at all… her mother was driving her mad! Asking about her "day" and if "she met anyone nice", and following her around the house… what a nightmare!!
Also I had a hunch while reading it that Zara and Penelope would end up having very similar personas and that their relationship would develop into an anti-feminist warring between women. I'm simply tired of this trope, and the mere potential for it was enough to dampen my interest in One?
As a whole, I think One? Is in dire need of multiple edits and a skillful editor. It could turn out to be a great book after that, but in its current state I'll never find out. Even if I had continued reading it, I would have been way too distracted by the writing style to make sense of the plot.
Thank you to the author for providing a free e-copy in exchange for an honest review. My apologies for DNFing it so soon. Receving a free copy has in no way affected my opinion on the book.
I generally try my very best to get at least 25% into a book before I put it down, but some books - you just know that it won't work and it doesn't make sense to keep trudging through it. I won't give a star rating or a proper review, just highlight my reasons of DNF'ing One?
The writing style simply does not work for me. One? reads like gossip from a rambly aunt who goes on wild tangents, tells the story disjointedly and points out obvious parts blatantly. The kind of gossip that makes me sigh and wish we could talk about something else. In fact, One? feels like it wasn't so much written as it was spoken out loud and then transcribed on paper. While I do talk and text the way One? is narrated, I do not want to read a book written in this style; it comes across as jumpy, exaggerating and disjointed.
The writing style hits on one of my major pet peeves; the frequent usage of ellipsis (…), exclamation marks, double exclamation marks, and stretched out words like sooooo. I don't mind these when texting but I hate to encounter them when enjoying a novel. Especially the frequency of ellipsis took me completely out of the story. These stylistic choices didn't seem necessary, and I felt like some parts were yelled because of unnessecary exclamation points and fast paced parts were irrationally slowed down by ellipsis.
From about 4%:
[S]he loved the room, she could actually see herself fitting all… well nearly all… of her shoes into the built-in wardrobes…
From about 3%
'I'm not sure… we'll definitely have to get two more in.' Charlie saw no major issue with living with strangers, it was all part of the adventure of life…
'I thought we agreed just one unknown.' Penelope really liked her home comforts…
I was also irritated by how often the narration was filled with obvious things being stated outright. One? had a tendency to explain things that were very clear already from the context and the writing started to fell jarring.
From about 5%
Finding the right flat in the right location, is an essential make or break step towards happinness or complete misery in London. It's important to live near, if not with, some friends, and of course the all-important transport links. Clapham South was perfect for Charlie and Penelope on both accounts.
The above was already very clear from the dialogue between the main characters and it felt like a bit that a rambly aunt would add to their story to emphasise how she thinks that the listener has no idea how renting a flat works. But anyone who has ever rented a flat anywhere knows those things already.
One? also included useless bits that were not relevant in any way and should have been edited out.
From about 4%
Mrs Evan's glasses had been on her head the whole time that she had been looking for them… but nobody mentioned this…
The writing style is disjointed and it feels odd to read. For example, at 9% Penelope mentions that they could go get drinks and asks Charlie and Zara about their plans. Two paragraphs of plan-discussion later, we get this: "The mere mention of alcohol perked Zara up immediately". But the alcohol was mentioned much earlier, I don't think it is an immediate reaction from Zara's part if it took so long to be initiated.
While I don't want to comment the plot much, I'll mention my view on the characters shortly. As a whole, they all felt like stereotyped caricatures. Penelope seemed way too juvenile for her age.
From about 3%
[L]iving back at home was no fun at all… her mother was driving her mad! Asking about her "day" and if "she met anyone nice", and following her around the house… what a nightmare!!
Also I had a hunch while reading it that Zara and Penelope would end up having very similar personas and that their relationship would develop into an anti-feminist warring between women. I'm simply tired of this trope, and the mere potential for it was enough to dampen my interest in One?
As a whole, I think One? Is in dire need of multiple edits and a skillful editor. It could turn out to be a great book after that, but in its current state I'll never find out. Even if I had continued reading it, I would have been way too distracted by the writing style to make sense of the plot.
July 14, 2019
2.5 Stars!
One? Is essentially about a group of young people living in London in the mid 2000’s trying to figure out their life with all its ups and down. There’s Penelope, who is a successful banker, closing in on her 30’s, her mother’s wants her to get married and settle down but she isn’t ready for that. There’s Charlie, who is a struggling musician, a play boy and one of Penelope’s oldest friends and there’s Zara, who has recently moved to London for her first big job. The story revolves around the lives of these three people as they navigate friendship, love, loss and heartbreak.
This book has such a nostalgic vibe to it because somewhere this book gives the same vibe as TV shows like Friends and How I met your mother, which many of us including me grew up watching. However, I will have to say that the book sorts of failed to create the same magic as the much beloved TV shows based on the same subject matter. You know, finding the one? It wasn’t bad really but it wasn’t very good either. The writing was average with most of the narrative coming across as “All tell and no show” which made it harder for me to connect with the story in general.
However, the major setback for me wasn’t really the plot of this book, it was actually the characters. We have three major characters arcs and while I really liked Zara’s storyline with all her struggles in the new city with a new job and how scared and lonely she felt, I didn’t really feel invested in Penelope or Charlie’s story. For the major part of the book, Charlie wasn’t even present in the meat of the story. He is reduced to just a guy sharing an apartment with Penelope and Zara and has a fleeting presence throughout the story except for the ending. (but I will get to it in a bit.)
As for Penelope, she is the most annoying of the lot and the only thing I liked about her was her relationship with her best friend Georgina. Other than that, let’s be fair Penelope has it all, she is beautiful, intelligent, talented and has a job which will give others a run for their money. The only thing lacking in her life is a boyfriend/companion whatever you’ll like to call it. That’s her only problem and throughout the book she keeps whining about it. It doesn’t really help that she is borderline indecisive and imprudent.
Penelope, keeps on reminding us readers that she doesn’t want to get married so soon in her life but she goes on and does the exact opposite when she decides to get into a relationship with Richard whom she doesn’t really loves and who is essentially a rebound after her supposed relationship debacle with Alyx. Now, I say “supposed relationship debacle” because first, Alyx and Penelope went on like two amazing dates and I don’t think that qualifies as being in a relationship and second, because Penelope totally jumped to conclusions about Alyx after seeing something, which in the hindsight wasn’t even that bad and could have easily been resolved if only she would have stopped crying for a minute there and talked to Alyx. But oh well! Why would she do that?
Honestly, for a minute there I really thought that Alyx and Penelope were headed towards something good especially after reading that prologue, I was so sure that they were definitely going to be the endgame but alas! That didn’t happen. I mean why foreshadow such a meet cute, if it wasn't going to eventually play out? In fact what happened was Penelope ended up with Charlie and honestly, it just came out of nowhere. Like I swear after the initial 1 or 2 chapters, the two of them barely had any interaction let alone any meaningful conversation which made, Penelope and Charlie's relationship unbelievable and juvenile. In fact, somewhere I really felt that even though the story was about three people, Penelope’s story outweighed the stories of other characters and made this book uneven. Like I failed to understand for the major part that where was this story even headed?
That said, even though this book did not work out for me, you can surely give it a try. It definitely has some really good elements and I truly believe that there’s a lot of heart in this story and may be if it was executed a little better, even I would have enjoyed it.
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One? Is essentially about a group of young people living in London in the mid 2000’s trying to figure out their life with all its ups and down. There’s Penelope, who is a successful banker, closing in on her 30’s, her mother’s wants her to get married and settle down but she isn’t ready for that. There’s Charlie, who is a struggling musician, a play boy and one of Penelope’s oldest friends and there’s Zara, who has recently moved to London for her first big job. The story revolves around the lives of these three people as they navigate friendship, love, loss and heartbreak.
This book has such a nostalgic vibe to it because somewhere this book gives the same vibe as TV shows like Friends and How I met your mother, which many of us including me grew up watching. However, I will have to say that the book sorts of failed to create the same magic as the much beloved TV shows based on the same subject matter. You know, finding the one? It wasn’t bad really but it wasn’t very good either. The writing was average with most of the narrative coming across as “All tell and no show” which made it harder for me to connect with the story in general.
However, the major setback for me wasn’t really the plot of this book, it was actually the characters. We have three major characters arcs and while I really liked Zara’s storyline with all her struggles in the new city with a new job and how scared and lonely she felt, I didn’t really feel invested in Penelope or Charlie’s story. For the major part of the book, Charlie wasn’t even present in the meat of the story. He is reduced to just a guy sharing an apartment with Penelope and Zara and has a fleeting presence throughout the story except for the ending. (but I will get to it in a bit.)
As for Penelope, she is the most annoying of the lot and the only thing I liked about her was her relationship with her best friend Georgina. Other than that, let’s be fair Penelope has it all, she is beautiful, intelligent, talented and has a job which will give others a run for their money. The only thing lacking in her life is a boyfriend/companion whatever you’ll like to call it. That’s her only problem and throughout the book she keeps whining about it. It doesn’t really help that she is borderline indecisive and imprudent.
Penelope, keeps on reminding us readers that she doesn’t want to get married so soon in her life but she goes on and does the exact opposite when she decides to get into a relationship with Richard whom she doesn’t really loves and who is essentially a rebound after her supposed relationship debacle with Alyx. Now, I say “supposed relationship debacle” because first, Alyx and Penelope went on like two amazing dates and I don’t think that qualifies as being in a relationship and second, because Penelope totally jumped to conclusions about Alyx after seeing something, which in the hindsight wasn’t even that bad and could have easily been resolved if only she would have stopped crying for a minute there and talked to Alyx. But oh well! Why would she do that?
Honestly, for a minute there I really thought that Alyx and Penelope were headed towards something good especially after reading that prologue, I was so sure that they were definitely going to be the endgame but alas! That didn’t happen. I mean why foreshadow such a meet cute, if it wasn't going to eventually play out? In fact what happened was Penelope ended up with Charlie and honestly, it just came out of nowhere. Like I swear after the initial 1 or 2 chapters, the two of them barely had any interaction let alone any meaningful conversation which made, Penelope and Charlie's relationship unbelievable and juvenile. In fact, somewhere I really felt that even though the story was about three people, Penelope’s story outweighed the stories of other characters and made this book uneven. Like I failed to understand for the major part that where was this story even headed?
That said, even though this book did not work out for me, you can surely give it a try. It definitely has some really good elements and I truly believe that there’s a lot of heart in this story and may be if it was executed a little better, even I would have enjoyed it.
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This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 4, 2019
This book was a very light hearted easy read. A story of four housemates making their way in life in London.
We have Penelope a head strong girl who works in the city by day and knows how to party by night. Her mother though is eager to get her married off.
Zara, is new to London and is just finding her feet in this busy hustle and bustle city.
Then we have the two males of the houseshare. Charlie, a laid back, up and coming musician, who is a hit with the ladies. And, Gerry the hunky snowboarder who is also a musician.
The story focuses mainly on the lives of the girls. I loved how we saw each character develop from their initial introductions and first impressions through to the end.
I would have liked to have known more about the boys story, but, I do see that this was the girls turn to lead in the story. And, hopefully we'll get to know more about Charlie and Gerry in book two.
This story is told through a third person narrative. But, what I enjoyed is the added extra input of the characters 'thoughts' told in a first person narrative. I found that this gave us a deeper insight and connection into the characters personality.
Zara's character bought humour into the story. She really was a small town girl lost in a big city. It was nice to how she adjusted to living in London. The fears she had are typical of anyone who isn't a city person and this gave an added touch to her character and made her relatable.
Penelope's story centres around her love life and her super busy work life. I loved her relationship with her best friend George, this showed that a high flying career girl, who is super organised and straight to the point when it comes to business and logical stuff depended so much on her friend for assistance when it came to boys. It was nice to see a softer side to her and made her a more well-rounded character.
If you adore chic-lit and contemporary easy read fiction then this book is definitely for you.
I would like to thank Jennifer for my gifted e-copy in exchange of an honest review. And, I am looking forward for the next installment in these people's life's. Hopefully, I will get to hear more about Charlie.
We have Penelope a head strong girl who works in the city by day and knows how to party by night. Her mother though is eager to get her married off.
Zara, is new to London and is just finding her feet in this busy hustle and bustle city.
Then we have the two males of the houseshare. Charlie, a laid back, up and coming musician, who is a hit with the ladies. And, Gerry the hunky snowboarder who is also a musician.
The story focuses mainly on the lives of the girls. I loved how we saw each character develop from their initial introductions and first impressions through to the end.
I would have liked to have known more about the boys story, but, I do see that this was the girls turn to lead in the story. And, hopefully we'll get to know more about Charlie and Gerry in book two.
This story is told through a third person narrative. But, what I enjoyed is the added extra input of the characters 'thoughts' told in a first person narrative. I found that this gave us a deeper insight and connection into the characters personality.
Zara's character bought humour into the story. She really was a small town girl lost in a big city. It was nice to how she adjusted to living in London. The fears she had are typical of anyone who isn't a city person and this gave an added touch to her character and made her relatable.
Penelope's story centres around her love life and her super busy work life. I loved her relationship with her best friend George, this showed that a high flying career girl, who is super organised and straight to the point when it comes to business and logical stuff depended so much on her friend for assistance when it came to boys. It was nice to see a softer side to her and made her a more well-rounded character.
If you adore chic-lit and contemporary easy read fiction then this book is definitely for you.
I would like to thank Jennifer for my gifted e-copy in exchange of an honest review. And, I am looking forward for the next installment in these people's life's. Hopefully, I will get to hear more about Charlie.
March 12, 2019
One? by Jennifer L Cahill
Miss Miller is a kind but stern teacher. She loves her class of little five-year olds. But, little Alyx might be the death of her.
Alyx hates talking in front of the class. He was used to speaking French not English. He’s only in Miss Millers class for a little while. His mom is in London for a film. He doesn’t understand all these English people and he’s always getting into trouble!
Alyx tells the class he wants to be a beetle....no, not the insect!
He wants to be a part of The Beatles!! Ugh, why do grown-ups make things so hard?
One? is an amazing read. I loved reading about little Alyx and Miss Miller. The entire story was heart-warming. Some of the scenes made me stop and think ‘Do adults ever think about what they say or how they say something to a child? Do they realize how much of an impact it has on them?’
Reading about how much of an impression someone can have was intriguing. Even after not seeing a person for years you remember how they made you felt, whether it be good or bad.
In all honesty, I finished this book a few days ago. But, I’ve been pondering on what to write. This book has left a mark on me and I kind of feel like I’m having another book hangover. I connected with all the characters and enjoyed their journey to the end.
Thank you so much Jennifer L Cahill for letting me read this wonderfully written book!
Miss Miller is a kind but stern teacher. She loves her class of little five-year olds. But, little Alyx might be the death of her.
Alyx hates talking in front of the class. He was used to speaking French not English. He’s only in Miss Millers class for a little while. His mom is in London for a film. He doesn’t understand all these English people and he’s always getting into trouble!
Alyx tells the class he wants to be a beetle....no, not the insect!
He wants to be a part of The Beatles!! Ugh, why do grown-ups make things so hard?
One? is an amazing read. I loved reading about little Alyx and Miss Miller. The entire story was heart-warming. Some of the scenes made me stop and think ‘Do adults ever think about what they say or how they say something to a child? Do they realize how much of an impact it has on them?’
Reading about how much of an impression someone can have was intriguing. Even after not seeing a person for years you remember how they made you felt, whether it be good or bad.
In all honesty, I finished this book a few days ago. But, I’ve been pondering on what to write. This book has left a mark on me and I kind of feel like I’m having another book hangover. I connected with all the characters and enjoyed their journey to the end.
Thank you so much Jennifer L Cahill for letting me read this wonderfully written book!
February 14, 2019
“One” is a light hearted, easy read, set in 2005. The first of a trilogy, this retro contemporary novel will remind you of the simpler life of work, friends and relationships in the “noughties.” Focused on Penelope, a 28-year-old investment banker, we share her search for a significant relationship while maintaining a high-powered job and enjoying time with her friends. In parallel we meet Zara, her young house-mate, newly arrived from the country and struggling with London life.
We also encounter Charlie, a musician, who was at University with Penelope and also shares their house; Richard, an annoying ex-Uni friend of conspicuous wealth and Alyx, an irresistible, handsome young lawyer, who travels widely with a successful pop group. The fact that both Alyx and Richard own castles in Scotland is hard to believe and it is no wonder that Zara feels out of her depth amongst such an affluent group.
Each of these young people are looking for good relationships and successful careers but juggling these is not easy and we see the possibility of Penelope being dragged into the life of a stay-at-home wife and mother. It is clear that in the last 14 years women’s roles have moved on. It is easier to identify with Zara and encouraging to see her increased confidence as she learns to navigate the underground, finds a new job and gains friends. The books conclusion is dramatic, leaving the reader longing to know how the next few years will pan out for this colourful group.
We also encounter Charlie, a musician, who was at University with Penelope and also shares their house; Richard, an annoying ex-Uni friend of conspicuous wealth and Alyx, an irresistible, handsome young lawyer, who travels widely with a successful pop group. The fact that both Alyx and Richard own castles in Scotland is hard to believe and it is no wonder that Zara feels out of her depth amongst such an affluent group.
Each of these young people are looking for good relationships and successful careers but juggling these is not easy and we see the possibility of Penelope being dragged into the life of a stay-at-home wife and mother. It is clear that in the last 14 years women’s roles have moved on. It is easier to identify with Zara and encouraging to see her increased confidence as she learns to navigate the underground, finds a new job and gains friends. The books conclusion is dramatic, leaving the reader longing to know how the next few years will pan out for this colourful group.
June 30, 2018
Check out full review here mariesbookboutique.wordpress.com/2018...
I must be completely honest I really like this front cover a lot! It shows the map of London with the river Teems running through the city's map. Two red siloets a gentleman and a lady, looking like they are gazing lovingly at each out. The map reminds me of the intro to the UK TV soap; EastEnders. I like it, and can feel the romantic vibes!!!
One? by Jennifer Cahill is a story set in the mid- 90's in London and tells a story of people searching for the ONE!
Penelope, is an investment banker in the city and looking for a place to live. She bump's in to one of her old Uni mates, Charlie now a musician and also looking for somewhere to share. When 72a Abbeville road becomes available, they view it with the agent and agree this should be their new home. However on moving day comes and there seems to be some confusion, as Zara who has just moved to London and has been let 72a by the owner. The owner a friend to Zara's family, suggests they all share, as there's plenty of room,to which they all agree. Only leaving one room left to find a new housemate.
Zara is completely overwhelmed by everything coming from a small town and now finding her self in the big smoke. Not only does she have to contend with moving to somewhere strange, missing her friends and family, having new housemates she doesn't know and looking for work and starting a new job. Her family and friends are so proud of her for moving there thinking she is a high-flying career woman, she feel's she can't tell them the truth. Penelope can see that Zara is struggling and her and Georgie take her under their wing Will she be able to deal with it all? How will she get on with the new housemates? Will she find work? Can Zara find her own the One? How will she cope with finding and agreeing on the new housemate?
Penelope is looking for the One but is so fed-up with the dull men, she seems to be attracting. She has a good friend Georgie who is pared off is a great support to her, she's always there on the end of the phone when date inevitably go wrong. Penelope, works long working hours, which don't go unnoticed by her boss. Then she meets Alyx, who she has a strong connection, but not really having time to build on anything because he always away with work. Then Richard another old Uni friend pop's up on the scene and offers her the world!!! But what will she do? Does she really feel something for Richard? What will happen to her Career? Will Penelope find her One? How will Penelope cope searching and agreeing on a new housemate?
Charlie's job as a musician, mean's he isn't really there when the girls are as he works most nights with his band. Being a bit of a lady's man, which hasn't gone unnoticed by Penelope and Zara. But when they are all together they have a lot of laughs. Does he really like being a lady's man? who will Charlie what to be the new housemate?
I have to say guys this book was so interesting and very entertaining to read. Being set in the mid-90's before Facebook and dating app's, it was really interesting to see how hard dating was in London in that time. You certainly had to be a social butterfly to find the One!!!! I fell in love with all the characters in this story; especially the way Penelope and Georgie take Zara under their wings teaching her important things when helping her to settle in, which was so sweet. I laughed a lot through out this story, but there are sad times especially when it comes to Zara struggling with living London and it was good to see how she grows through the book.
One? is a story all about taking chances and by having chance meetings could mean you could have found the One!!!!! And friendships that will last a life time!
I thoughly enjoyed the way Jennifer wrote, it was an absolute joy to read. She gives clear images of the characters and their personalities shine through her wonderful writing. The story line was very just fantastic in my eyes and a great first novel from Jennifer, I will be looking out for her next book for sure! I highly recommend One?
I must be completely honest I really like this front cover a lot! It shows the map of London with the river Teems running through the city's map. Two red siloets a gentleman and a lady, looking like they are gazing lovingly at each out. The map reminds me of the intro to the UK TV soap; EastEnders. I like it, and can feel the romantic vibes!!!
One? by Jennifer Cahill is a story set in the mid- 90's in London and tells a story of people searching for the ONE!
Penelope, is an investment banker in the city and looking for a place to live. She bump's in to one of her old Uni mates, Charlie now a musician and also looking for somewhere to share. When 72a Abbeville road becomes available, they view it with the agent and agree this should be their new home. However on moving day comes and there seems to be some confusion, as Zara who has just moved to London and has been let 72a by the owner. The owner a friend to Zara's family, suggests they all share, as there's plenty of room,to which they all agree. Only leaving one room left to find a new housemate.
Zara is completely overwhelmed by everything coming from a small town and now finding her self in the big smoke. Not only does she have to contend with moving to somewhere strange, missing her friends and family, having new housemates she doesn't know and looking for work and starting a new job. Her family and friends are so proud of her for moving there thinking she is a high-flying career woman, she feel's she can't tell them the truth. Penelope can see that Zara is struggling and her and Georgie take her under their wing Will she be able to deal with it all? How will she get on with the new housemates? Will she find work? Can Zara find her own the One? How will she cope with finding and agreeing on the new housemate?
Penelope is looking for the One but is so fed-up with the dull men, she seems to be attracting. She has a good friend Georgie who is pared off is a great support to her, she's always there on the end of the phone when date inevitably go wrong. Penelope, works long working hours, which don't go unnoticed by her boss. Then she meets Alyx, who she has a strong connection, but not really having time to build on anything because he always away with work. Then Richard another old Uni friend pop's up on the scene and offers her the world!!! But what will she do? Does she really feel something for Richard? What will happen to her Career? Will Penelope find her One? How will Penelope cope searching and agreeing on a new housemate?
Charlie's job as a musician, mean's he isn't really there when the girls are as he works most nights with his band. Being a bit of a lady's man, which hasn't gone unnoticed by Penelope and Zara. But when they are all together they have a lot of laughs. Does he really like being a lady's man? who will Charlie what to be the new housemate?
I have to say guys this book was so interesting and very entertaining to read. Being set in the mid-90's before Facebook and dating app's, it was really interesting to see how hard dating was in London in that time. You certainly had to be a social butterfly to find the One!!!! I fell in love with all the characters in this story; especially the way Penelope and Georgie take Zara under their wings teaching her important things when helping her to settle in, which was so sweet. I laughed a lot through out this story, but there are sad times especially when it comes to Zara struggling with living London and it was good to see how she grows through the book.
One? is a story all about taking chances and by having chance meetings could mean you could have found the One!!!!! And friendships that will last a life time!
I thoughly enjoyed the way Jennifer wrote, it was an absolute joy to read. She gives clear images of the characters and their personalities shine through her wonderful writing. The story line was very just fantastic in my eyes and a great first novel from Jennifer, I will be looking out for her next book for sure! I highly recommend One?
February 5, 2020
There were times where things seemed a bit dramatized; as well as a little bit rushed through. It was interesting to follow some of these characters around. The later half of the book flowed a little bit better. If you're looking for a nice light read that follows characters in their twenties and the life choices they have to figure out, try picking this book up.
I got a copy in exchange for an honest review.
I got a copy in exchange for an honest review.
April 21, 2020
Actual rating: 3.5
The story follows the lives of Penelope, Charlie and Zara, who are flatmates who came to live together under different slightly circumstances. Penelope and Charlie went to university together, and reconnected after Charlie dropped out, and after a chance encounter, they decided to live together. However, they were offered the apartment, but so was Zara. However, as the apartment had four rooms and Charlie and Penelope were looking for roommates, it worked out great for Zara.
The book is set in the early 2000s, following these characters lives as they learn to grow and experience the ups and downs of their lives. All three main characters are completely different. Charlie is a struggling musician. Penelope is a successful banker. Zara is a new university graduate who's just moved to London for her first major job. The book mainly follows Penelope and Zara, which I didn't mind, but I do wish there was more from Charlie's point of view. These chapters following Penelope and Zara gave the reader a great understanding of who these two women were, and I did enjoy going from not really understanding Penelope and thinking she was incredibly posh and a bit of a snob to seeing a completely different side. I truly loved Zara's character, her character development with her self confidence growing, and really connected with her quiet character who found the big city overwhelmed and just wanted to go home back to her small home town in Wales, but she didn't want to disappoint her family and friends.
I did enjoy the romance plots for both Penelope and Zara. I found Zara's a lot more of that classic girl next door kind of trope, and Penelope's more of a classic mess in terms of her trying to figure out which guy she liked and was better suited for her. I can safely say I definitely preferred Alyx to Richard. I can also say I didn't pick the ending at all, and I'm still shook to that to this day. That is the main reason I can't wait for the next book in the series!
Thank you very much to Jennifer L Cahill for providing me with a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
The story follows the lives of Penelope, Charlie and Zara, who are flatmates who came to live together under different slightly circumstances. Penelope and Charlie went to university together, and reconnected after Charlie dropped out, and after a chance encounter, they decided to live together. However, they were offered the apartment, but so was Zara. However, as the apartment had four rooms and Charlie and Penelope were looking for roommates, it worked out great for Zara.
The book is set in the early 2000s, following these characters lives as they learn to grow and experience the ups and downs of their lives. All three main characters are completely different. Charlie is a struggling musician. Penelope is a successful banker. Zara is a new university graduate who's just moved to London for her first major job. The book mainly follows Penelope and Zara, which I didn't mind, but I do wish there was more from Charlie's point of view. These chapters following Penelope and Zara gave the reader a great understanding of who these two women were, and I did enjoy going from not really understanding Penelope and thinking she was incredibly posh and a bit of a snob to seeing a completely different side. I truly loved Zara's character, her character development with her self confidence growing, and really connected with her quiet character who found the big city overwhelmed and just wanted to go home back to her small home town in Wales, but she didn't want to disappoint her family and friends.
I did enjoy the romance plots for both Penelope and Zara. I found Zara's a lot more of that classic girl next door kind of trope, and Penelope's more of a classic mess in terms of her trying to figure out which guy she liked and was better suited for her. I can safely say I definitely preferred Alyx to Richard. I can also say I didn't pick the ending at all, and I'm still shook to that to this day. That is the main reason I can't wait for the next book in the series!
Thank you very much to Jennifer L Cahill for providing me with a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
May 16, 2020
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'One?' by Jennifer Cahill was such a joyful read. A contemporary fiction novel with all the feels you can imagine. It is a fascinating story of a bunch of twenty-somethings struggling to find their footing amidst the hustle and bustle of London life. Jennifer has beautifully captured the struggles that come with adapting to a buzzing city like London. I myself relocated to Dubai in my twenties as well, without knowing a single soul here, I went through pretty much the same emotional roller-coaster, and so I could relate to the story and the characters very well.
I loved that there were only a few characters and the entire novel revolved around them. Loved to read about the flat-sharing life, the endless gossips and the critical dissection of every little event that happens in life amongst the room-mates, it all took me back to my early days of settling in Dubai, another major larger than life city. Jennifer has also done an excellent job of balancing such different lives of each of the characters and blending them all together resulting in this extremely sweet and refreshing story. There is a lot to love about it, the drama, the twists, the emotions, and particularly the absolute rom-com style climax, which I completely adored!
More than anything, this is a story of love, friendship and above all, finding yourself. I definitely urge you to give this light, airy, flirty and truly enchanting novel a try and I'm sure you're going to love it too.
'One?' by Jennifer Cahill was such a joyful read. A contemporary fiction novel with all the feels you can imagine. It is a fascinating story of a bunch of twenty-somethings struggling to find their footing amidst the hustle and bustle of London life. Jennifer has beautifully captured the struggles that come with adapting to a buzzing city like London. I myself relocated to Dubai in my twenties as well, without knowing a single soul here, I went through pretty much the same emotional roller-coaster, and so I could relate to the story and the characters very well.
I loved that there were only a few characters and the entire novel revolved around them. Loved to read about the flat-sharing life, the endless gossips and the critical dissection of every little event that happens in life amongst the room-mates, it all took me back to my early days of settling in Dubai, another major larger than life city. Jennifer has also done an excellent job of balancing such different lives of each of the characters and blending them all together resulting in this extremely sweet and refreshing story. There is a lot to love about it, the drama, the twists, the emotions, and particularly the absolute rom-com style climax, which I completely adored!
More than anything, this is a story of love, friendship and above all, finding yourself. I definitely urge you to give this light, airy, flirty and truly enchanting novel a try and I'm sure you're going to love it too.
January 11, 2020
Thank you to the author for providing me with this book in exchange for my honest opinion. This book is available now.
After reading the blurb about One?, I was expecting a bit of a FRIENDS vibe. Instead, it felt a bit more like the show Sex and the City. There is a difference, and it does come into play in my review, so please bear with me.
This book felt like gossip between friends, which is the feeling I got from the (maybe one) episode of Sex and the City that I’ve seen. It seemed sort of bubbly, for lack of a better term. It’s about four roommates as they navigate life. There’s Zara, the new girl; Penelope, who’s a bit of a partier; Gerry, who’s supposed to be hot stuff; and Charlie, a musician.
The theme of the book is relationships. It focuses on the relationships the roommates have with each other, as well as those they have with others. It’s not quite my bag, but I can absolutely see the appeal of this book to those whose taste lean toward the sweet and romantic.
My biggest pet peeve with this book happens to be the punctuation. Commas were often used in place of periods, which frustrated me. There was also a liberal smattering of exclamation points. I think an editor could easily help with that, but it was irritating.
My end verdict is that if light romantic contemporary fiction is a genre you gravitate to, you’ll enjoy this book.
https://wittyandsarcasticbookclub.hom...
After reading the blurb about One?, I was expecting a bit of a FRIENDS vibe. Instead, it felt a bit more like the show Sex and the City. There is a difference, and it does come into play in my review, so please bear with me.
This book felt like gossip between friends, which is the feeling I got from the (maybe one) episode of Sex and the City that I’ve seen. It seemed sort of bubbly, for lack of a better term. It’s about four roommates as they navigate life. There’s Zara, the new girl; Penelope, who’s a bit of a partier; Gerry, who’s supposed to be hot stuff; and Charlie, a musician.
The theme of the book is relationships. It focuses on the relationships the roommates have with each other, as well as those they have with others. It’s not quite my bag, but I can absolutely see the appeal of this book to those whose taste lean toward the sweet and romantic.
My biggest pet peeve with this book happens to be the punctuation. Commas were often used in place of periods, which frustrated me. There was also a liberal smattering of exclamation points. I think an editor could easily help with that, but it was irritating.
My end verdict is that if light romantic contemporary fiction is a genre you gravitate to, you’ll enjoy this book.
https://wittyandsarcasticbookclub.hom...
April 23, 2019
Here as promised is my review of your book One?
‘This is a wonderful easy read. I read this in a day and a half.
It starts with an extract from Penelope childhood and what she wants to be when she grows up. She wants to be a princess in a castle and her friend Alyx want to be something to do with music and rockstars.
The story is based mainly around 3 people. Charlie, Penelope and Zara. Charlie and Penelope have known each other since their university years and have recently reconnected via a Chance meeting. Now they are looking for a flat together.
Zara is a young lady who comes from the small welsh town Bangor and has now got a job in the big city of London. She finds its is all really overwhelming and daunting. Now she too is looking for a flat.
The three of them come together through a misunderstanding and lack of communication. But it actually works out really well.
Penelope’s mother has an huge expectation on who Penelope should marry- job, status, money. She thinks that Penelope needs to get her skates on as she is in her late twenties and she continues to pile on pressure onto her.
However Penelope has no great interest in finding the ‘one’ nor can she seem to find anyone who meets the criteria of being ‘the one’
Penelope bestfriend George is a huge support for her and is determined to help her search out someone.
Then along come Richard - rich, has a title, fantastic job and has a castle and Alyx who is a tour manager to a very successful band which as part of his job he travels all around the world.
There is so much more to this I really don’t want to spoil it. As I was reading it I was certain it was going a certain way but then something would happen the unexpected which is great.
The story is so well written and the characters are so fabulous they make the book come to life.
Cannot wait for the next instalment to this wonderful book. There is so much more to this.’
‘This is a wonderful easy read. I read this in a day and a half.
It starts with an extract from Penelope childhood and what she wants to be when she grows up. She wants to be a princess in a castle and her friend Alyx want to be something to do with music and rockstars.
The story is based mainly around 3 people. Charlie, Penelope and Zara. Charlie and Penelope have known each other since their university years and have recently reconnected via a Chance meeting. Now they are looking for a flat together.
Zara is a young lady who comes from the small welsh town Bangor and has now got a job in the big city of London. She finds its is all really overwhelming and daunting. Now she too is looking for a flat.
The three of them come together through a misunderstanding and lack of communication. But it actually works out really well.
Penelope’s mother has an huge expectation on who Penelope should marry- job, status, money. She thinks that Penelope needs to get her skates on as she is in her late twenties and she continues to pile on pressure onto her.
However Penelope has no great interest in finding the ‘one’ nor can she seem to find anyone who meets the criteria of being ‘the one’
Penelope bestfriend George is a huge support for her and is determined to help her search out someone.
Then along come Richard - rich, has a title, fantastic job and has a castle and Alyx who is a tour manager to a very successful band which as part of his job he travels all around the world.
There is so much more to this I really don’t want to spoil it. As I was reading it I was certain it was going a certain way but then something would happen the unexpected which is great.
The story is so well written and the characters are so fabulous they make the book come to life.
Cannot wait for the next instalment to this wonderful book. There is so much more to this.’
March 26, 2019
This book took awhile for me to get super interested. Zara is so anxious about moving to London, her job, and even using the transportation that I couldn't help but feel anxious for her. Anxiety aside, the book reads like a 90's sitcom. It was completely relatable. I have been as anxious as Zara was when she loses her job and her life in London is called into question. I have been 28 year old Penelope, swamped by my job and unwilling to devote time to finding love. When she decides to settle for Richard, an old friend from University and almost marries him, I cringed. I know what it is like to feel like you're about to marry the wrong person. That panic is unlike any other feeling.
Charlie and Alyx both bothered me. Charlie was nonexistent through the entire book. He has a couple of paragraphs at the beginning where he's bringing random girls home, and that's it...but he makes this grand gesture at the end of the book. How can you be so out of the picture and expect that gesture to work? Alyx was present in the book, but hardly in London with the girls. I think he made the wrong career decision, along with his love life decision. I really thought he would end up with the girl he called his "one," and I was disappointed. I enjoyed the relationships for the most part. This was a "fun, girly read." It's a nice palate cleanser compared to my thriller books. If you need something light that can take your mind off your own problems, I would definitely recommend looking into this book.
Charlie and Alyx both bothered me. Charlie was nonexistent through the entire book. He has a couple of paragraphs at the beginning where he's bringing random girls home, and that's it...but he makes this grand gesture at the end of the book. How can you be so out of the picture and expect that gesture to work? Alyx was present in the book, but hardly in London with the girls. I think he made the wrong career decision, along with his love life decision. I really thought he would end up with the girl he called his "one," and I was disappointed. I enjoyed the relationships for the most part. This was a "fun, girly read." It's a nice palate cleanser compared to my thriller books. If you need something light that can take your mind off your own problems, I would definitely recommend looking into this book.
June 28, 2019
Recap:
Coming from someone who does not read a lot of contemporary novels I must say I really enjoyed this book. This story follows the lives of multiple young 20 somethings living in London as they journey through life, love, and self-fulfillment. I found this to be a believable story for the most part as it deals with themes of finding yourself, trying to fit in, people pleasing, self-confidence, friendship, and the list goes on and on.
Characters:
The author has written some very believable characters, you really get a sense of who everyone is as a person.
Penelope: A well to do investment banker, bored with her job and wanting to find love before she turns 30 (not to mention trying to avoid her mother who is breathing down her back about the same issue)
Zara: (Who I related with the most) Is trying to find her way in a new city and job and prove to herself and family that she can survive on her own. The only problem is she has no clue how to do so.
Charlie: A guitarist in a band whose only concern is becoming famous and shacking up with any girl that will have him.
Writing Style:
Being a woman in my 30's I really identify with these characters. The author did such a great job on distinguishing the different characters voices I could easily tell which characters was speaking. The POV between characters changed abruptly within chapters, which made it confusing at times and lost flow of the story. However, I could still get a clear sense of what the characters were feeling. Just as a side note I hope we get to see more of the men characters POVs in future books.
Final Thoughts:
Overall This story had a real Sex and the City feel to it. I'm excited to see where these lives are going to end up as it is pretty clear they all still got some real growing up to do. I highly recommend this read for anyone who is still learning who they are as a person or for someone who has been there done that but just wants to take a stroll down memory lane of their own difficulties, challenges and triumphs of their young or current lives.
Coming from someone who does not read a lot of contemporary novels I must say I really enjoyed this book. This story follows the lives of multiple young 20 somethings living in London as they journey through life, love, and self-fulfillment. I found this to be a believable story for the most part as it deals with themes of finding yourself, trying to fit in, people pleasing, self-confidence, friendship, and the list goes on and on.
Characters:
The author has written some very believable characters, you really get a sense of who everyone is as a person.
Penelope: A well to do investment banker, bored with her job and wanting to find love before she turns 30 (not to mention trying to avoid her mother who is breathing down her back about the same issue)
Zara: (Who I related with the most) Is trying to find her way in a new city and job and prove to herself and family that she can survive on her own. The only problem is she has no clue how to do so.
Charlie: A guitarist in a band whose only concern is becoming famous and shacking up with any girl that will have him.
Writing Style:
Being a woman in my 30's I really identify with these characters. The author did such a great job on distinguishing the different characters voices I could easily tell which characters was speaking. The POV between characters changed abruptly within chapters, which made it confusing at times and lost flow of the story. However, I could still get a clear sense of what the characters were feeling. Just as a side note I hope we get to see more of the men characters POVs in future books.
Final Thoughts:
Overall This story had a real Sex and the City feel to it. I'm excited to see where these lives are going to end up as it is pretty clear they all still got some real growing up to do. I highly recommend this read for anyone who is still learning who they are as a person or for someone who has been there done that but just wants to take a stroll down memory lane of their own difficulties, challenges and triumphs of their young or current lives.
November 18, 2018
Firstly, just look at that cover, its so clever and lovely! Secondly, if you have read the blurb, (and depending on your age), you will be brought back to an era where there were no iphones, no social media and no good reliable wi fi! If you are not old enough, then yes believe it or not, there was a time not too long ago, when you had to look up in a book if you wanted to find something out.
'One?' goes back in time, where Zara looks for a video shop to pass her time,rather than Netflix. Although some things never change, like dipping chocolate digestives in tea! (great idea Zara).
I really enjoyed this book and am already looking forward to 'Two'. We follow main characters Zara and Penelope who house share in London while they navigate their way through the highs and lows of living and working in London.
Reading this book took me back to a time when I was in London, the highs and lows and finding your way through the social life, the travel system and work! This was a part of the reason why I enjoyed the book so much, I could relate to the characters and the area. Penelope and Charlie are used to London, while Zara is new and needs advice and guidance from Penelope. We see friendships develop naturally, and also discussions of relationships and 'TheOne'. I loved the part where a female character has to explain women's thoughts on this to a male character. She does a great job, even adding in what happens during divorce!
The story is not all about finding love, so don't be fooled by the title into thinking this is all about finding 'The One', its more about the trials and tribulations of a few young people getting by in London in the early naughties. 'One?' is about friendships, getting by, fun and a few chance meetings here and there. London city is the perfect setting for this book. We also get a great tip from Penelope, though I haven't yet tried it, but would be interested to know if it works....? The best hangover cure according to Penelope, (or is it Author Jennifer Cahill?), "Red Hula Hoops and Coke". Let me know if you try this.
'One?' goes back in time, where Zara looks for a video shop to pass her time,rather than Netflix. Although some things never change, like dipping chocolate digestives in tea! (great idea Zara).
I really enjoyed this book and am already looking forward to 'Two'. We follow main characters Zara and Penelope who house share in London while they navigate their way through the highs and lows of living and working in London.
Reading this book took me back to a time when I was in London, the highs and lows and finding your way through the social life, the travel system and work! This was a part of the reason why I enjoyed the book so much, I could relate to the characters and the area. Penelope and Charlie are used to London, while Zara is new and needs advice and guidance from Penelope. We see friendships develop naturally, and also discussions of relationships and 'TheOne'. I loved the part where a female character has to explain women's thoughts on this to a male character. She does a great job, even adding in what happens during divorce!
The story is not all about finding love, so don't be fooled by the title into thinking this is all about finding 'The One', its more about the trials and tribulations of a few young people getting by in London in the early naughties. 'One?' is about friendships, getting by, fun and a few chance meetings here and there. London city is the perfect setting for this book. We also get a great tip from Penelope, though I haven't yet tried it, but would be interested to know if it works....? The best hangover cure according to Penelope, (or is it Author Jennifer Cahill?), "Red Hula Hoops and Coke". Let me know if you try this.
June 30, 2020
My thoughts about this brilliant book, that's has heart touching moments, about love and friendship, was amazing. It's about how people move to London, with ambitions that we all have, in today's society, a struggle we have to go through in life be it work family tensions, how we live in today's modern world. What I liked about this book, was it teaches as many things the challenges what we have to go through in life.The characters in this book were amazing, i loved Zara was fantastic, Charlie and Richard were lovable. The most important character I loved was Penelope, who works day and night as a investment banker was brilliant. A well written story that should be adapted on to the big screen. author Jennifer L Cahill's writing is beyond excellent,her writing style is fascinating. A well written story that is truly remarkable, about high and lows in are lives we have to thourgh. Highly recommended.If you want to read a brilliant light heart touching novel then this ones for you. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
March 28, 2019
*Spoiler Free
*I was given a complimentary copy of this book by the author for review*
First of all, I just want to say, I think the cover is so neat, I really like it. This book was such a fun read. It is about a few different twenty-something-year-olds and their life in London. Penelope & Charlie have known each other since college and are moving into an apartment together, as friends. Zara is new to London and after a misunderstanding, becomes Penelope and Charlie’s roommate. Alyx (Ah-Leeks) is a lawyer in the music industry so he’s always traveling all over. Richard moved from Sweden to London, Penelope knows him from college. They start getting to know each other again and things…happen. I really liked all the characters, they were all developed beautifully. I wish we saw more of Charlie. The parts where he was talked about were fun to read so I hope in the next book we see more of him.
Like I said before, all the characters are very well developed, even minor characters. You learn enough about each of the characters that you don’t want to forget them. Both Penelope and Zara changed so much throughout the book, in a good way. Penelope realized she doesn’t need to be searching for a soulmate, it just happens. She knows what’s good for her and what she wants. Zara was terrified when she first got to London. She was scared she wouldn’t make friends or be able to navigate her way around, but she did it! She found amazing friends who taught her how to get around the city.
Overall, I loved this book. I didn’t even notice I was nearing the end until all of a sudden it ended, then I got sad because I want more!! It was such a character-driven story and I can’t wait for book two of this series to see more of the characters.
*I was given a complimentary copy of this book by the author for review*
First of all, I just want to say, I think the cover is so neat, I really like it. This book was such a fun read. It is about a few different twenty-something-year-olds and their life in London. Penelope & Charlie have known each other since college and are moving into an apartment together, as friends. Zara is new to London and after a misunderstanding, becomes Penelope and Charlie’s roommate. Alyx (Ah-Leeks) is a lawyer in the music industry so he’s always traveling all over. Richard moved from Sweden to London, Penelope knows him from college. They start getting to know each other again and things…happen. I really liked all the characters, they were all developed beautifully. I wish we saw more of Charlie. The parts where he was talked about were fun to read so I hope in the next book we see more of him.
Like I said before, all the characters are very well developed, even minor characters. You learn enough about each of the characters that you don’t want to forget them. Both Penelope and Zara changed so much throughout the book, in a good way. Penelope realized she doesn’t need to be searching for a soulmate, it just happens. She knows what’s good for her and what she wants. Zara was terrified when she first got to London. She was scared she wouldn’t make friends or be able to navigate her way around, but she did it! She found amazing friends who taught her how to get around the city.
Overall, I loved this book. I didn’t even notice I was nearing the end until all of a sudden it ended, then I got sad because I want more!! It was such a character-driven story and I can’t wait for book two of this series to see more of the characters.
May 3, 2019
I received an ecopy to review! I enjoy this story that follows people in their 20s and how they adjust to life after school.
To see my review with a playlist check out my blog post!
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To see my review with a playlist check out my blog post!
https://laurenbodiford123.wordpress.c...
May 25, 2019
One? Follows the story of a group of 20 something-year-olds living in the City of London, Penelope is an investment broker who spends way too much of her time working, she's convinced she'll never find the 'one' because she doesn't have the time. She and her longtime friend Charlie have decided to move in together to save money on the rent. Charlie is a music artist trying to make it big in the city, and with Penelope's work hour's they pass each other briefly. After finding the perfect place to stay, they end up house sharing with a young Zara who has just moved to the big city to start a new job. She doesn't quite know what to think of her two new roommates yet and she is still trying to adapt to her new life which is proving to be easier said than done. Zara misses her friends and family who are all so proud of her for moving to the big city, she is scared of letting them down and didn't realise how hard it would be leaving her life behind.
One is set in 2005, written in the third person, One tells the story of each of the characters, I'll admit the flipping from character to character was offputting sometimes, especially when it was a brief encounter of one character before splitting to another. But if you can see past that you will have less trouble reading it. Zara and Penelope take the main centre stage as we find out more about them, they both don't seem to think too much of each other at first but they have a lot more in common than they think. They are both very headstrong and determined characters and I hope that they can form an even closer bond in the sequel. I could relate to some of their frustrations in my life.
I struggled to get into the story in the beginning but I pushed past this and did, in the end, enjoy this book. I felt like a lot of the 'drama' in the book happens towards to end and I was not ready for the turn of event's that unfolded. I was mildly disappointed that we didn't hear more from Gerry (Gerard) the person who moved in with them, I was excited to hear more about him but hopefully, the sequel will include more of him as his character intrigues me. I am looking forward to Two? after that cliffhanger ending, which really caught me off guard, I was not expecting that at all, and I felt slightly saddened that the book was over but hopefully we can expect the sequel soon!
https://whatsinmywonderland.com/2019/...
One is set in 2005, written in the third person, One tells the story of each of the characters, I'll admit the flipping from character to character was offputting sometimes, especially when it was a brief encounter of one character before splitting to another. But if you can see past that you will have less trouble reading it. Zara and Penelope take the main centre stage as we find out more about them, they both don't seem to think too much of each other at first but they have a lot more in common than they think. They are both very headstrong and determined characters and I hope that they can form an even closer bond in the sequel. I could relate to some of their frustrations in my life.
I struggled to get into the story in the beginning but I pushed past this and did, in the end, enjoy this book. I felt like a lot of the 'drama' in the book happens towards to end and I was not ready for the turn of event's that unfolded. I was mildly disappointed that we didn't hear more from Gerry (Gerard) the person who moved in with them, I was excited to hear more about him but hopefully, the sequel will include more of him as his character intrigues me. I am looking forward to Two? after that cliffhanger ending, which really caught me off guard, I was not expecting that at all, and I felt slightly saddened that the book was over but hopefully we can expect the sequel soon!
https://whatsinmywonderland.com/2019/...
November 8, 2019
I was asked to review this book by the author; it is her debut novel and the start of a series. I feel like a bit of a dufus when I read the blurb I read mid-noughties as the 1900s! So I was expecting a period drama, so I was immediately confused when the book started in 1979! However, once I realised my mistake, I settled into what turned out to be a book set in ‘my’ era! I finished uni in 2000 and was embarking on the real world at the same time as the characters in this book. I even went for an interview in 2001 in London, but I wasn’t as brave as Zara and ran away, screaming at the thought of living in the big city!
It was so lovely to return to a time when things were a lot simpler; a physical A-Z book was the only way to get around without relying on your iPhone to get you from A to Z! We do rely way too much on technology and the internet, and it’s only been 14 years since this book was set in 2005. It really made me think about how life has changed since I’ve been a ‘grown-up’.
The book follows a group of characters, but not too many that you get confused. I felt like it was just the right amount of people. Especially as the chapters are not dedicated to one person each and it interchanges between their thoughts and dialogue throughout a chapter. With too many characters, this could have gone terribly wrong, but fortunately, it worked well with the few characters we were getting to know.
I empathised with Zara the most, because like I said I wasn’t as brave and could see how intimidating everything would have been to her. Starting afresh in the biggest city in the country. I think I would have cried every five seconds, as well.
Penelope was a delightful character as well, as her story progressed, it gave me a little anxiety as I could see she was about to make the biggest mistake of her life.
I would have liked to have been inside Charlie’s world a little more, so I am hoping we get to see more of him in book two. In fact, I’m hoping book two follows all of these characters again, as there is still so much to see from them.
The book, overall, was light-hearted and fun. It really captured the essence of the time period and was really enjoyable to read. I didn’t want it to end! I’m really looking forward to book two!
Thanks for reading! If you want to see more of my reviews visit www.pinkanddizzy.com
It was so lovely to return to a time when things were a lot simpler; a physical A-Z book was the only way to get around without relying on your iPhone to get you from A to Z! We do rely way too much on technology and the internet, and it’s only been 14 years since this book was set in 2005. It really made me think about how life has changed since I’ve been a ‘grown-up’.
The book follows a group of characters, but not too many that you get confused. I felt like it was just the right amount of people. Especially as the chapters are not dedicated to one person each and it interchanges between their thoughts and dialogue throughout a chapter. With too many characters, this could have gone terribly wrong, but fortunately, it worked well with the few characters we were getting to know.
I empathised with Zara the most, because like I said I wasn’t as brave and could see how intimidating everything would have been to her. Starting afresh in the biggest city in the country. I think I would have cried every five seconds, as well.
Penelope was a delightful character as well, as her story progressed, it gave me a little anxiety as I could see she was about to make the biggest mistake of her life.
I would have liked to have been inside Charlie’s world a little more, so I am hoping we get to see more of him in book two. In fact, I’m hoping book two follows all of these characters again, as there is still so much to see from them.
The book, overall, was light-hearted and fun. It really captured the essence of the time period and was really enjoyable to read. I didn’t want it to end! I’m really looking forward to book two!
Thanks for reading! If you want to see more of my reviews visit www.pinkanddizzy.com
January 26, 2020
One? is basically about the people in their 20s living their life with different struggles, jobs, backgrounds etc. They moved together in the same apartment in London. The story starts in 2005 with the classroom of "real ambitions" and then followed a 10 year long span.
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The two girls Penelope and Zara, where Penelope is an independent person who knows how to live her life and Zara is new in London finding her dreams in the city. Charlie and Gerry the other two flatmates where Charlie is good with the ladies and about to be musician whereas Gerry is a musician and snowboarder.
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I loved these characters especially the girls. Maintaining the work life and love life, the humor, they're just great. I relate very very much to the girls and that's the best part of this story. A third person narrative story just adds the feeling of characters.
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It is an easy contemporary read, if you love that genre this book is for you. The writing style is very easy for me, and the dialogues can be more effective. But overall the story and the characters were great. Author has done a great job making it relatable to people.
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The two girls Penelope and Zara, where Penelope is an independent person who knows how to live her life and Zara is new in London finding her dreams in the city. Charlie and Gerry the other two flatmates where Charlie is good with the ladies and about to be musician whereas Gerry is a musician and snowboarder.
.
.
I loved these characters especially the girls. Maintaining the work life and love life, the humor, they're just great. I relate very very much to the girls and that's the best part of this story. A third person narrative story just adds the feeling of characters.
.
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It is an easy contemporary read, if you love that genre this book is for you. The writing style is very easy for me, and the dialogues can be more effective. But overall the story and the characters were great. Author has done a great job making it relatable to people.
January 27, 2020
I'm quite surprised I haven't come across this author before; this is a well written book which I enjoyed very much!
Like many other young people, Zara, Penelope and Charlie live in London. Pen and Charlie are already friends, one a banker and the other a musician. Fate throws Zara in their path - it's her first time in the capital and she's quite nervous but luckily Pen takes her under her wing. All very different characters, this is their story . . .
Jennifer Cahill has a fine writing style; before I knew it I was immersed in her novel where the character portrayals were so clear I could easily imagine them in my mind's eye. This is an easy read, smoothly flowing with many enjoyable ups and downs along the way. I know nothing about scenic London - or rather I knew nothing before reading this book - and I loved the information which tumbled out along the way. I reckon this was a realistic storyline, although the ending didn't go where I expected it to! Definitely an author to watch and I'm sure her name will become much better known. Well planned and delightfully entertaining, this is a strong four star novel.
Like many other young people, Zara, Penelope and Charlie live in London. Pen and Charlie are already friends, one a banker and the other a musician. Fate throws Zara in their path - it's her first time in the capital and she's quite nervous but luckily Pen takes her under her wing. All very different characters, this is their story . . .
Jennifer Cahill has a fine writing style; before I knew it I was immersed in her novel where the character portrayals were so clear I could easily imagine them in my mind's eye. This is an easy read, smoothly flowing with many enjoyable ups and downs along the way. I know nothing about scenic London - or rather I knew nothing before reading this book - and I loved the information which tumbled out along the way. I reckon this was a realistic storyline, although the ending didn't go where I expected it to! Definitely an author to watch and I'm sure her name will become much better known. Well planned and delightfully entertaining, this is a strong four star novel.
November 5, 2020
Penelope and Charlie first meet at University but lose contact immediately after leaving. During a serendipitous moment on a delayed train, the two find each other again, reactivating their budding friendship. Having decided to move in together as housemates they discover that the landlady has already promised one of the rooms to Zara, a young women having just moved to London. With nowhere else to go the three decide they will live together and look for one other housemate to take the last of the bedrooms.
The story follows the lives of these three individuals; their struggles and anxieties along with their moments of success and joy. Although on the face of it, Penelope is successful and confident you see her hidden anxieties of being in her late twenties and still searching for Mr Right. I loved the way she would look to her best friend, George for reassurance when it came to dating etiquette. The nights when they would stay home and dissect dates gone wrong or drunken mistakes provided a lot of humour in the book which I think a lot of readers will relate to.
Zara's journey throughout this book is immense. From being a foreigner in London, naive and lonely she finds herself becoming a regular Londoner immersed in the travelling to and from work and socialising at the weekend. Her self esteem grows throughout the book and it is wonderful to bear witness to this. I loved how the book jumped from one character to the next seamlessly. It was so refreshing not to have to wait for the next chapter to hear about one of the other characters.
One? is an enjoyable read of friendship, the throes of life and the search for finding the One! I loved the setting as I too spent my youth, twenties and early thirties living in and around London. Cahill balances the themes of romance, hope and humour beautifully. There were no soppy love scenes, which I was pleased about, just plenty of romantic gestures, the ideology of love and hope of finding a person to spend the rest of your life with. If you enjoy chic-lit and contemporary fiction then this book is definitely for you. One? has a light hearted, easy read feel about it which acts as a great escapism.
The story follows the lives of these three individuals; their struggles and anxieties along with their moments of success and joy. Although on the face of it, Penelope is successful and confident you see her hidden anxieties of being in her late twenties and still searching for Mr Right. I loved the way she would look to her best friend, George for reassurance when it came to dating etiquette. The nights when they would stay home and dissect dates gone wrong or drunken mistakes provided a lot of humour in the book which I think a lot of readers will relate to.
Zara's journey throughout this book is immense. From being a foreigner in London, naive and lonely she finds herself becoming a regular Londoner immersed in the travelling to and from work and socialising at the weekend. Her self esteem grows throughout the book and it is wonderful to bear witness to this. I loved how the book jumped from one character to the next seamlessly. It was so refreshing not to have to wait for the next chapter to hear about one of the other characters.
One? is an enjoyable read of friendship, the throes of life and the search for finding the One! I loved the setting as I too spent my youth, twenties and early thirties living in and around London. Cahill balances the themes of romance, hope and humour beautifully. There were no soppy love scenes, which I was pleased about, just plenty of romantic gestures, the ideology of love and hope of finding a person to spend the rest of your life with. If you enjoy chic-lit and contemporary fiction then this book is definitely for you. One? has a light hearted, easy read feel about it which acts as a great escapism.
January 19, 2020
Copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
First of all, I want to say how beautiful the cover of this book is, I ADORE IT!! It’s perfect for this funny and lovely story focused on the quest of finding the one and true love in London.
This book was a little bit different from the ones I’m used to reading – it was a breath of fresh air in my steamy TBR pile.
Penelope was my favorite character because we are so alike – we love shoes, our love life is a disaster and we seem “cold at first sight (they called me the Ice Queen once, so…).
Can I say that I didn’t like Zara? I enjoyed reading about her life, but he was afraid of the Tube and London scared her… How is that possible? London is an amazing city – I love the bustle of a metropolis, I won’t ever be comfortable living in the countryside.
While Penelope and Zara’s story were funny and amusing, I wanted to read more about Charlie – maybe the author will focus more on him in the second book?
I couldn’t stand Richard – what an annoying prick! How could Penelope put up with him? Duh.
And Alyx… I mean, he was busy all the time following bands all around the world, but if he wanted Penelope, why didn’t he try harder to keep in contact with her? So frustrating.
FULL REVIEW CAN BE FIND HERE
First of all, I want to say how beautiful the cover of this book is, I ADORE IT!! It’s perfect for this funny and lovely story focused on the quest of finding the one and true love in London.
This book was a little bit different from the ones I’m used to reading – it was a breath of fresh air in my steamy TBR pile.
Penelope was my favorite character because we are so alike – we love shoes, our love life is a disaster and we seem “cold at first sight (they called me the Ice Queen once, so…).
Can I say that I didn’t like Zara? I enjoyed reading about her life, but he was afraid of the Tube and London scared her… How is that possible? London is an amazing city – I love the bustle of a metropolis, I won’t ever be comfortable living in the countryside.
While Penelope and Zara’s story were funny and amusing, I wanted to read more about Charlie – maybe the author will focus more on him in the second book?
I couldn’t stand Richard – what an annoying prick! How could Penelope put up with him? Duh.
And Alyx… I mean, he was busy all the time following bands all around the world, but if he wanted Penelope, why didn’t he try harder to keep in contact with her? So frustrating.
FULL REVIEW CAN BE FIND HERE
February 28, 2020
My Rating: 3.5 Stars
One? was a light and quick read. It follows a story of four people who move in together and are try. All four are trying to make a life for themselves in London.
The story is told through a third person narrative, which can be a hit or miss for me at times but I enjoyed it in this case. I also liked how there were snippets of thoughts from the characters which were written in first person. This helped to understand the characters better and it helped me to imagine what they would be like if they were real characters.
Although I enjoyed reading about the four housemates the story mainly focuses on the girls. It would have been nice to get to know the guys as well. Saying that I know there is a second book so maybe I’m hoping that we get to know the guys a little more then.
I really enjoyed reading and finding out about the characters. They all brought something to the story. I was able to relate to a few things from each of the characters, which I liked because it made them more believable.
As many of you know I’m not a big reader of chic-lit, but occasionally I do and although I don’t tend to enjoy them much there is a rare occasion where I find one that I like, and this is one of those times. I have to admit when Jennifer first reached out to me about reviewing this book I was a bit unsure but having finished the book, I’m so glad I agreed. I’m really looking forward to reading the next book.
If you’re looking for a quick Chic-lit type of book this is a book I would happily recommend to you.
I would like to thank Jennifer for sending me an e-copy in return for an honest and unbiased review.
One? was a light and quick read. It follows a story of four people who move in together and are try. All four are trying to make a life for themselves in London.
The story is told through a third person narrative, which can be a hit or miss for me at times but I enjoyed it in this case. I also liked how there were snippets of thoughts from the characters which were written in first person. This helped to understand the characters better and it helped me to imagine what they would be like if they were real characters.
Although I enjoyed reading about the four housemates the story mainly focuses on the girls. It would have been nice to get to know the guys as well. Saying that I know there is a second book so maybe I’m hoping that we get to know the guys a little more then.
I really enjoyed reading and finding out about the characters. They all brought something to the story. I was able to relate to a few things from each of the characters, which I liked because it made them more believable.
As many of you know I’m not a big reader of chic-lit, but occasionally I do and although I don’t tend to enjoy them much there is a rare occasion where I find one that I like, and this is one of those times. I have to admit when Jennifer first reached out to me about reviewing this book I was a bit unsure but having finished the book, I’m so glad I agreed. I’m really looking forward to reading the next book.
If you’re looking for a quick Chic-lit type of book this is a book I would happily recommend to you.
I would like to thank Jennifer for sending me an e-copy in return for an honest and unbiased review.
February 21, 2020
I liked how relatable the book is to modern life. I feel that the characters' struggles perfectly mirror our own mundane ones. It deals with expectations, uncertainty, not knowing what you want or how to get it. This was the most appealing part of the book.
You can read the full review on Book Review Hub
You can read the full review on Book Review Hub
July 17, 2019
I received this book from the author for an honest review. And here it goes. 😊
It was a bit hard in the beginning to get used to the style of writing. I believe that I never read a book in which the author was going deep into the characters mind. Even though in the beginning it was strange to read their thoughts, once I got used to it it was actually pretty interesting and I appreciated the fact that I can know what was going on through their mind.
The story is about finding 'the one' but not only about that. It is about independent women and their struggles to make a good career in London. The main character is not just one character but several. Or at least that's how I understand the book. Even though there is Penelope that is mostly struggling to find the perfect man for her, there are also Zara and George which represent important, strong women as well.
I really enjoyed this book. The style of writing of the author is different from what I read before but I definitely appreciate it.
Thanks for reading!
CB.
It was a bit hard in the beginning to get used to the style of writing. I believe that I never read a book in which the author was going deep into the characters mind. Even though in the beginning it was strange to read their thoughts, once I got used to it it was actually pretty interesting and I appreciated the fact that I can know what was going on through their mind.
The story is about finding 'the one' but not only about that. It is about independent women and their struggles to make a good career in London. The main character is not just one character but several. Or at least that's how I understand the book. Even though there is Penelope that is mostly struggling to find the perfect man for her, there are also Zara and George which represent important, strong women as well.
I really enjoyed this book. The style of writing of the author is different from what I read before but I definitely appreciate it.
Thanks for reading!
CB.
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