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The Night We Met
'Beautifully written, utterly heartbreaking. An epic love story' Paige Toon As a man holds his wife's frail hand, he recounts a journey like no other... Daniel and Olivia are destined to be together. At least, Daniel thinks this the night he sees Olivia across a sea of people. As he backpacks through Australia, Daniel and Liv continue to cross paths, yet never speak. Until one night, Liv joins Daniel for a drink. And that night everything changes. Back in London, stuck in a monotonous routine, Daniel finds himself daydreaming of the woman with amber eyes and fiery hair. Armed with only a name he vows to find her, yet with every passing moment, Daniel's hopes begin to disappear. What if it wasn't meant to be? But then fate steps in, and Daniel and Olivia's story can truly begin... This is a tale of serendipity, missed chances and the power of love. Praise for The Night We Met : 'A beautifully wrought novel, exhilarating and devastating in equal measure, and filled with passion, warmth and humour' Ian Critchley 'A testament to love' NetGalley reviewer 'A wonderful , well-written story!' Karen Osman 'A book about looking back on life, about love and our reactions to it' NetGalley Reviewer 'Zoë Folbigg writes a story like no other . This romantic story leaves you wanting more and looking for your own Daniel' NetGalley Reviewer 'A really beautifully written book which explores the love story between two people spanning years' NetGalley Reviewer 'I loved the characters , the setting and the amazing journey the book took me on' NetGalley Reviewer Praise for Zoë 'The laugh-out-loud, tears-in-your-coffee story of the consequences that unfolded from passing the note. 4*' OK! magazine on The Note 'A life-affirming, uplifting reminder that taking a chance can change everything' Woman's Weekly on The Note 'Maya and James are appealing characters and I love the idea that all you really need is the courage to pursue someone' Daily Mail on The Note 'Classic beach reading. It's light, romantic [and] makes for ideal commute reading' Cosmo on The Note
464 pages, Paperback
Published May 13, 2021
151 people are currently reading
950 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 122 reviews
February 23, 2021
The Night We Met is an emotional novel about a woman dying from cancer that has her husband write their love story for their daughters.
I really enjoyed The Night We Met. I had so many emotions while reading this book. The premise behind the story is very sad. The book has multiple time lines switching between past and present. The switching timelines were done well and made the story more interesting. I really enjoyed Daniel and Olivia. They are both struggling for different reasons when they meet. They were traveling in Australia and New Zealand and kept running into each other. Daniel instantly is attracted to Olivia, but Olivia is grieving so doesn’t feel the same way. Olivia has a unique family situation with two mothers. Daniel and Olivia both have to figure out what they want to do with their life and develop careers. The story spans from their first meeting, time spent apart, an unexpected reunion, marriage, and leading up to the present day. The Night We Met is heartbreaking in the best way.
Thank you Aria and NetGalley for The Night We Met.
Full Review: https://justreadingjess.wordpress.com...
I really enjoyed The Night We Met. I had so many emotions while reading this book. The premise behind the story is very sad. The book has multiple time lines switching between past and present. The switching timelines were done well and made the story more interesting. I really enjoyed Daniel and Olivia. They are both struggling for different reasons when they meet. They were traveling in Australia and New Zealand and kept running into each other. Daniel instantly is attracted to Olivia, but Olivia is grieving so doesn’t feel the same way. Olivia has a unique family situation with two mothers. Daniel and Olivia both have to figure out what they want to do with their life and develop careers. The story spans from their first meeting, time spent apart, an unexpected reunion, marriage, and leading up to the present day. The Night We Met is heartbreaking in the best way.
Thank you Aria and NetGalley for The Night We Met.
Full Review: https://justreadingjess.wordpress.com...
January 12, 2021
Please note that I received this book via NetGalley. This did not affect my rating or review.
It's not this book's fault but it's probably the wrong subject matter (woman on death's door) for me to be reading right now. I could not get into it. I gave it 3 stars though since it 100 percent is me and my mental state right now that was just not in the mood for a "romance" that's sad.
This feels very similar to the movie Love Story honestly. Another reviewer pointed out that this is like the Notebook and now I feel like really stupid for not picking that up at all. Daniel's wife Olivia is sick (cancer) and she asks him to tell their children their story. How they met and how they fell in love. She wants to write the story, but is too weak to do it and ask Daniel to do it for her. "The Night We Met" then follows them.
Honestly the backstories to Daniel and Olivia was a lot. I just didn't care and wanted the story to get a move on.
I also think the jumping around in timelines and giving different perspectives (Daniel and Olivia) throughout the book ended up hampering the flow of the story. You would get a clue about certain things and then the book would jump back or forth and then follow up on that clue/statement etc pages later. It started to drive me up the wall after a while.
The setting of the story jumps to so many cities and countries, we go to London, Paris, Australia, Milan, Japan, etc. that it just got to be too much.
It's not this book's fault but it's probably the wrong subject matter (woman on death's door) for me to be reading right now. I could not get into it. I gave it 3 stars though since it 100 percent is me and my mental state right now that was just not in the mood for a "romance" that's sad.
This feels very similar to the movie Love Story honestly. Another reviewer pointed out that this is like the Notebook and now I feel like really stupid for not picking that up at all. Daniel's wife Olivia is sick (cancer) and she asks him to tell their children their story. How they met and how they fell in love. She wants to write the story, but is too weak to do it and ask Daniel to do it for her. "The Night We Met" then follows them.
Honestly the backstories to Daniel and Olivia was a lot. I just didn't care and wanted the story to get a move on.
I also think the jumping around in timelines and giving different perspectives (Daniel and Olivia) throughout the book ended up hampering the flow of the story. You would get a clue about certain things and then the book would jump back or forth and then follow up on that clue/statement etc pages later. It started to drive me up the wall after a while.
The setting of the story jumps to so many cities and countries, we go to London, Paris, Australia, Milan, Japan, etc. that it just got to be too much.
February 11, 2021
The Night We Met is an adult fiction novel of a young man and woman that keep finding each other all over the world. Over 20 years later (after a marriage and children) she asks him to write down their love story.
The year is 1996 and two twenty-year olds (Daniel and Olivia) are traveling across Australia and New Zealand trying to make the most of their summer before real world responsibilities start. Daniel has his first reporter job waiting for him in England and Olivia is starting design school in London. Their accidental meeting is the beginning of a love story that will span decades and continents.
The Night We Met is a love story but not a romance novel. It has all the highs, lows and devastating losses of a long and successful relationship. Zoë Folbigg creates a beautiful and rich story that has both incredible characters but detailed experiences of life around the world. Vistas and pubs from Australia and New Zealand come alive as do Milan, English suburbs and London. She creates a collection of characters that are a mix of the personalities (both generous and petty) that make up a couple surrounded by both family and friends. There is a scene where Olivia has had enough of a sour and selfish guest in her home that will have the reader screaming “YES, you tell her!!”
I highly recommend this beautiful and emotional novel for readers who want to fall in love with two amazing characters and their life together.
5 stars ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A copy of The Night We Met by Zoë Folbigg was provided by NetGalley and the publisher for review purposes
The year is 1996 and two twenty-year olds (Daniel and Olivia) are traveling across Australia and New Zealand trying to make the most of their summer before real world responsibilities start. Daniel has his first reporter job waiting for him in England and Olivia is starting design school in London. Their accidental meeting is the beginning of a love story that will span decades and continents.
The Night We Met is a love story but not a romance novel. It has all the highs, lows and devastating losses of a long and successful relationship. Zoë Folbigg creates a beautiful and rich story that has both incredible characters but detailed experiences of life around the world. Vistas and pubs from Australia and New Zealand come alive as do Milan, English suburbs and London. She creates a collection of characters that are a mix of the personalities (both generous and petty) that make up a couple surrounded by both family and friends. There is a scene where Olivia has had enough of a sour and selfish guest in her home that will have the reader screaming “YES, you tell her!!”
I highly recommend this beautiful and emotional novel for readers who want to fall in love with two amazing characters and their life together.
5 stars ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A copy of The Night We Met by Zoë Folbigg was provided by NetGalley and the publisher for review purposes
May 24, 2023
I found this a difficult book to read. It starts with a young mother dying of cancer then goes back to when the married couple met. I didn’t really enjoy this book as it was too sad.
November 11, 2022
3.5 stars
This was a touching read about a man penning his and his wife's love story, while she is dying from cancer. Switching between past and present, the reader is shown how the two meet and get together, which ultimately has you getting invested into the book. The narration on the audio was great and I loved listening, however the only downside I had was that maybe the book was a little too long. If you aren't in the mood for a sad book, I'd recommend shelving this one for later but when you feel like a good cry, definitely pick this one up.
Thanks so much to Netgalley and Saga Edmont Audio for a complimentary copy of this ALC in exchange for my honest review.
This was a touching read about a man penning his and his wife's love story, while she is dying from cancer. Switching between past and present, the reader is shown how the two meet and get together, which ultimately has you getting invested into the book. The narration on the audio was great and I loved listening, however the only downside I had was that maybe the book was a little too long. If you aren't in the mood for a sad book, I'd recommend shelving this one for later but when you feel like a good cry, definitely pick this one up.
Thanks so much to Netgalley and Saga Edmont Audio for a complimentary copy of this ALC in exchange for my honest review.
March 26, 2023
You know it's going to end sadly yet can't stop reading
A dying woman asks her husband to write their love story for their daughters.
The story intertwines three timelines: present, their beginning when Olivia and Daniel met and how she got diagnosed with cancer.
The story tells of a slightly introverted and insecure young British man and fiery Italian woman, confident in her place in the world. Daniel's girlfriend cheats on him and asks him to give his ticket to her new boyfriend. He refuses (thank god) and decides to go on the trip himself - for the first time, which makes him very nervous. He keeps noticing Olivia, with her vibrant personality, in Australia and New Zealand.
He goes back to the UK, all the time thinking of her. They meet again in London, two years later for one night. But she's gone the next day.
It's an incredible story, I have to admit. However, the beginning was a bit slow and hard to get into. The story, while interesting and incredible, was simply lacking. Perhaps it is the writing style. I can't put my finger on it. Definitely worth a read, though. Especially if you like romantic stories.
A dying woman asks her husband to write their love story for their daughters.
The story intertwines three timelines: present, their beginning when Olivia and Daniel met and how she got diagnosed with cancer.
The story tells of a slightly introverted and insecure young British man and fiery Italian woman, confident in her place in the world. Daniel's girlfriend cheats on him and asks him to give his ticket to her new boyfriend. He refuses (thank god) and decides to go on the trip himself - for the first time, which makes him very nervous. He keeps noticing Olivia, with her vibrant personality, in Australia and New Zealand.
He goes back to the UK, all the time thinking of her. They meet again in London, two years later for one night. But she's gone the next day.
It's an incredible story, I have to admit. However, the beginning was a bit slow and hard to get into. The story, while interesting and incredible, was simply lacking. Perhaps it is the writing style. I can't put my finger on it. Definitely worth a read, though. Especially if you like romantic stories.
November 16, 2022
Narrated by Charlotte Worthing ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Story by Zoë Folbigg ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Oh my God I cried! Real. Actual. Tears.
This book is an absolutely beautiful slow burn of love and lost.
Zoë Folbigg did such a brilliant job with this.
Story by Zoë Folbigg ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Oh my God I cried! Real. Actual. Tears.
This book is an absolutely beautiful slow burn of love and lost.
Zoë Folbigg did such a brilliant job with this.
February 15, 2021
When I say this book was an emotional hell of a ride, I mean it. The Night We Met grabbed me by the hand and led me through the life of the two main characters Daniel and Olivia.
The Night We Met tells the story of how Daniel and Olivia met, and how their lives apart and together go from that moment on. I think it is interesting that we get to read the stories of different times in their lives through different perspectives. Sometimes from the perspective of Daniel and something from the point of view of Olivia.
The story takes us from Australia to New Zealand to Milan, London, Switzerland, and so on. Reading this book feels like traveling through time and around the world.
The Night We Met is a well written, heartbreaking but oh so beautiful book.
My full review can be read here: https://ohsrslybooks.com/2021/02/13/b...
The Night We Met tells the story of how Daniel and Olivia met, and how their lives apart and together go from that moment on. I think it is interesting that we get to read the stories of different times in their lives through different perspectives. Sometimes from the perspective of Daniel and something from the point of view of Olivia.
The story takes us from Australia to New Zealand to Milan, London, Switzerland, and so on. Reading this book feels like traveling through time and around the world.
The Night We Met is a well written, heartbreaking but oh so beautiful book.
My full review can be read here: https://ohsrslybooks.com/2021/02/13/b...
April 22, 2021
I do love a Zoe Folbigg novel!
It was absolutely heart wrenching from beginning to end. I loved Daniel but I found I just couldn't warm to Olivia. The writing was fantastic though and the depth to the characters was extraordinary. Totally recommended but you will need a box of tissues!
It was absolutely heart wrenching from beginning to end. I loved Daniel but I found I just couldn't warm to Olivia. The writing was fantastic though and the depth to the characters was extraordinary. Totally recommended but you will need a box of tissues!
November 3, 2020
Daniel and Olivia were meant to be - at least that's what he thinks during his worldwide travels when fate brings them together more than once. However it's not until years later, when they are both more mature and in jobs they love, that fate brings them together for the final time. After which they are never to be parted... until life throws something unexpected in front of them.
Oh, I did love this compelling read. A love story at its best, spanning decades and featuring the clumsiness and reckless nature of youth, as well as the settled domesticity of middle age. Folbigg beautifully demonstrates how a physical attraction can develop into something much deeper - how love at first sight can transform into a love you won't give up without a fight.
I adored the characters of Olivia and Daniel and couldn't turn the pages quick enough to see how their story ended. Utterly gripping, heartbreakingly poignant, yet an uplifting story about love, family and friendship.
Oh, I did love this compelling read. A love story at its best, spanning decades and featuring the clumsiness and reckless nature of youth, as well as the settled domesticity of middle age. Folbigg beautifully demonstrates how a physical attraction can develop into something much deeper - how love at first sight can transform into a love you won't give up without a fight.
I adored the characters of Olivia and Daniel and couldn't turn the pages quick enough to see how their story ended. Utterly gripping, heartbreakingly poignant, yet an uplifting story about love, family and friendship.
November 17, 2020
Olivia Messina Mother of Two daughters and wife to Daniel has one major problem. She needs the love of her life to write their story of how they met since she is unable too. It is supposed to be dedicated to their two daughters. Some may call the love story fate on how they met and developed their relationship the good the bad the ugly. However, Daniel’s feels that the story on how they met deserves to be from his wife’s point of view also. She doesn’t think so as much, I interpret he thinks it’s a defeatist attitude. Her attitude is you’re the writer. Olivia Messina is 43 and has a lot going on which is hard for me not to reveal. (Olivia has brain cancer)
So Daniel Takes up at his wife’s beheast to write their story for when their girls grow up. It is written in his point of view to his daughters but I actually love how the story was written on how they met. I felt it was a good distraction for Daniel while the wife is dying. His experience as you go along from how they met to different time periods to marriage and current circumtances and watching how they daughters feel. Its heartbreaking.
It’s like trying to distract the mind to a time where things were happier. It is like looking into someone else’s life and wanting to just not stop crying. It is trying to find the silver lining in a dark cloud. You have to love the ups and downs. Looking for the ever after. For me it is like thinking how a support group feels. How do people view life loved well lived and blessed.
It’s very deep and complex writing points out complex things and maybe things some people never would have guessed.
This Arc was given to me by Netgalley I am happy to read this for an honest review.
So Daniel Takes up at his wife’s beheast to write their story for when their girls grow up. It is written in his point of view to his daughters but I actually love how the story was written on how they met. I felt it was a good distraction for Daniel while the wife is dying. His experience as you go along from how they met to different time periods to marriage and current circumtances and watching how they daughters feel. Its heartbreaking.
It’s like trying to distract the mind to a time where things were happier. It is like looking into someone else’s life and wanting to just not stop crying. It is trying to find the silver lining in a dark cloud. You have to love the ups and downs. Looking for the ever after. For me it is like thinking how a support group feels. How do people view life loved well lived and blessed.
It’s very deep and complex writing points out complex things and maybe things some people never would have guessed.
This Arc was given to me by Netgalley I am happy to read this for an honest review.
October 29, 2022
Thank you Saga Egmont Audio for this great audio.
I am in the moodnto read ficiton but this seemed really real. It made me feel so sad and happy. And that was the great thing about it.
It is a story of a couple, how they meet. They connect they do wild things and they simply fall in love.
And there is something that happens after 20 years noone excpect. And the dark comes. I felt lost but the main character was so strong I have no words how to describe everything.
I know that everything starts also ends. Thatvis life. And this was also a warm story of love, life not just lost.
I adored the think they traveled so much and had different stories behind. I felt so home when the italian language was used. Tender.
I am in the moodnto read ficiton but this seemed really real. It made me feel so sad and happy. And that was the great thing about it.
It is a story of a couple, how they meet. They connect they do wild things and they simply fall in love.
And there is something that happens after 20 years noone excpect. And the dark comes. I felt lost but the main character was so strong I have no words how to describe everything.
I know that everything starts also ends. Thatvis life. And this was also a warm story of love, life not just lost.
I adored the think they traveled so much and had different stories behind. I felt so home when the italian language was used. Tender.
November 30, 2021
A beautiful and heartbreaking story of finding and holding onto love. The love story of Daniel and Olivia is wonderfully written and at times made me smile and also have tears running down my face. An inspiring story of life and love.
March 3, 2022
Such a beautiful book. The end bloody destroyed me though. I would happily live their life just wouldn’t want to die young of a brain tumour obviously. Very sad and very happy at the same time. I love how they travelled so much and went to amazing places and the beginning was so cute where they kept on seeing each other in different countries and finally sticking together in Milan.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 22, 2020
A husband whose wife is on her deathbed much too early, recounts their story as a last wish fulfillment, and for the benefit of their young kids.
This wasn't a book that pulled me in so it surprisingly took me longer to finish. I found it to be a pretty average story. Nothing shocking, no plot twists, none of those things. It was simple, short, and sad. I found the pacing to be a bit off, there were some instances wherein I found scenes, sentences, conversations etc repetitive. I also thought there wasn't a smooth switch between povs, with that, it could be a bit confusing at times. But I did like the characters even if I still felt like I wasn't close to them after finishing.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the arc!
This wasn't a book that pulled me in so it surprisingly took me longer to finish. I found it to be a pretty average story. Nothing shocking, no plot twists, none of those things. It was simple, short, and sad. I found the pacing to be a bit off, there were some instances wherein I found scenes, sentences, conversations etc repetitive. I also thought there wasn't a smooth switch between povs, with that, it could be a bit confusing at times. But I did like the characters even if I still felt like I wasn't close to them after finishing.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the arc!
December 15, 2023
i usually love books like this, but i cant find it in me to give this vapid, dry piece of work anything more than 2.5 stars. i struggled to care about characters i felt ive seen a million times before
December 28, 2020
The Night We Met begins at the tail end of Daniel Bleeker and Olivia Messina’s love story. From her hospital bed, Olivia urges Daniel to commit to paper the story of their romance which encompasses their initial meeting on the other side of the world and their subsequent encounters over the years culminating in a meeting that will change their lives forever. Recounting their love story is a poignant way of capturing a treasure trove of memories that their daughters, Flora and Sofia can cherish in years to come. This latest emotional rollercoaster of a novel from one of my favourite authors is destined to tug at those heartstrings.
Daniel is travelling down under having finished university, a trip originally planned with his now ex girlfriend Kelly but one he is still determined to experience albeit alone. As he traverses the country, sightseeing and learning to surf, his attention is caught by the numerous coincidental sightings of none other than Italian born Olivia who is due to enrol shortly on a course at Central Saint Martins in London. Olivia, the flame haired beauty whom Daniel is besotted with at first glance, a girl whom he believes to be way out of his league, is a character who’s impossible to forget. Her cool edgy persona when we first meet her, someone seemingly comfortable in her own shoes is a mixture of the vulnerable and the brave which makes her so beguiling. I could totally understand how Daniel, this ordinary and average young man is blinded by her aura. However she’s also impossible to pin down and whilst Daniel yearns the chance to get to know her better it would seem fate has other ideas. He cannot shake the effect Olivia’s fleeting and periodic presences in his life have upon his heart and soul, leaving him with a desire to find her even if his search is akin to looking for a needle in a haystack. But never underestimate the underdog or the way in which life can take the most unexpected turns!
In a storyline that’s crammed full of sliding door moments the reader is treated to a round the world trip from the comfort of their own armchair. Encompassing Australia, New Zealand, London, Milan, Cambridge, Tuscany, Japan and Switzerland this is a love story that reaches dizzying heights as well as plummeting to heartbreaking lows. Considering all the occasions when Daniel and Olivia’s paths cross with momentary sightings and brief encounters it’s a miracle these two ever reach that pivotal point when fate intervenes but it’s so worth the wait. In fact these missed opportunities only add to the wonderment and relief when this moment in time finally arrives with their unfolding romance both a source of joy and sadness. You learn so much about these two very different individuals yet they compliment each other perfectly. I think it’s fair to say I was bewitched not only by this couple but also by the romance and beauty of Italy, the food and the language which provides an ideal backdrop for much of Daniel and Olivia’s romance to blossom. If you’re a fashionista then you’ll appreciate this element of the storyline although I have to say the football references went way over my head. Both of Olivia’s Italian mammas(Nancy and Maria) further enhance the feeling of being enveloped in a blanket of love and warm hospitality whilst the company of their diverse and loyal close group of friends adds to the sense family doesn’t have to be consigned to blood lines. The only character who’s really a blot on the horizon is Annabel, Daniel’s sister in law whom I feel is included to highlight that every family is encumbered with at least one awkward, unlikeable member!!
I have read all of Zoé Folbigg’s novels, loved every one of them and The Night We Met is her best one yet! I’m a sucker for a well written love story and this author sweeps you up in a most beautiful and memorable story that is incredibly romantic, poignant, touching and joyous all at the same time. It’s also a celebration of every kind of love any one of us may expect to experience over the course of a lifetime; reading this is both enriching and intensely pleasurable. Daniel and Olivia may only be a figment of the author’s imagination but to me, for a few hours at least, they were real and very much alive. I immersed myself in this land of make believe, basking in the glow emanating from their radiant love, fully aware the author’s pen is poised like a hammer, ready to strike, ready to bring a full stop to the Bleeker/Messina saga. That your heart may shatter into a million little pieces is a distinct possibility but I for one couldn’t bear to tear myself away. BEAUTIFUL and BRILLIANT and an ABSOLUTE must read for anyone who believes that love never dies. If you need evidence that true love and love at first sight exists then this is the book for you! My thanks as always to the publisher and Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read.
Daniel is travelling down under having finished university, a trip originally planned with his now ex girlfriend Kelly but one he is still determined to experience albeit alone. As he traverses the country, sightseeing and learning to surf, his attention is caught by the numerous coincidental sightings of none other than Italian born Olivia who is due to enrol shortly on a course at Central Saint Martins in London. Olivia, the flame haired beauty whom Daniel is besotted with at first glance, a girl whom he believes to be way out of his league, is a character who’s impossible to forget. Her cool edgy persona when we first meet her, someone seemingly comfortable in her own shoes is a mixture of the vulnerable and the brave which makes her so beguiling. I could totally understand how Daniel, this ordinary and average young man is blinded by her aura. However she’s also impossible to pin down and whilst Daniel yearns the chance to get to know her better it would seem fate has other ideas. He cannot shake the effect Olivia’s fleeting and periodic presences in his life have upon his heart and soul, leaving him with a desire to find her even if his search is akin to looking for a needle in a haystack. But never underestimate the underdog or the way in which life can take the most unexpected turns!
In a storyline that’s crammed full of sliding door moments the reader is treated to a round the world trip from the comfort of their own armchair. Encompassing Australia, New Zealand, London, Milan, Cambridge, Tuscany, Japan and Switzerland this is a love story that reaches dizzying heights as well as plummeting to heartbreaking lows. Considering all the occasions when Daniel and Olivia’s paths cross with momentary sightings and brief encounters it’s a miracle these two ever reach that pivotal point when fate intervenes but it’s so worth the wait. In fact these missed opportunities only add to the wonderment and relief when this moment in time finally arrives with their unfolding romance both a source of joy and sadness. You learn so much about these two very different individuals yet they compliment each other perfectly. I think it’s fair to say I was bewitched not only by this couple but also by the romance and beauty of Italy, the food and the language which provides an ideal backdrop for much of Daniel and Olivia’s romance to blossom. If you’re a fashionista then you’ll appreciate this element of the storyline although I have to say the football references went way over my head. Both of Olivia’s Italian mammas(Nancy and Maria) further enhance the feeling of being enveloped in a blanket of love and warm hospitality whilst the company of their diverse and loyal close group of friends adds to the sense family doesn’t have to be consigned to blood lines. The only character who’s really a blot on the horizon is Annabel, Daniel’s sister in law whom I feel is included to highlight that every family is encumbered with at least one awkward, unlikeable member!!
I have read all of Zoé Folbigg’s novels, loved every one of them and The Night We Met is her best one yet! I’m a sucker for a well written love story and this author sweeps you up in a most beautiful and memorable story that is incredibly romantic, poignant, touching and joyous all at the same time. It’s also a celebration of every kind of love any one of us may expect to experience over the course of a lifetime; reading this is both enriching and intensely pleasurable. Daniel and Olivia may only be a figment of the author’s imagination but to me, for a few hours at least, they were real and very much alive. I immersed myself in this land of make believe, basking in the glow emanating from their radiant love, fully aware the author’s pen is poised like a hammer, ready to strike, ready to bring a full stop to the Bleeker/Messina saga. That your heart may shatter into a million little pieces is a distinct possibility but I for one couldn’t bear to tear myself away. BEAUTIFUL and BRILLIANT and an ABSOLUTE must read for anyone who believes that love never dies. If you need evidence that true love and love at first sight exists then this is the book for you! My thanks as always to the publisher and Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read.
March 13, 2021
The story of Olivia and Daniel, when I read the blurb I thought it was going to be a little more light on the rom-com side but I was very mistaken this is a very emotional journey.
Olivia has very little time left in her life or so that's what she thinks, she discovered she has a terrible tumor that is consuming her life, and that's when things started to change, she wanted to tell her story to let her children know how she met Daniel, how they became in love and form this amazing family, Daniel wasn't ready for this but life has a funny way to change your mind and so the story begins.
This is the story of Daniel and Olivia two souls that met a long time ago in the most unexpected situation and circunstances.. Olivia kept showing up all around Daniels's life until a drunken night where everything started to change. The Night We Met take us on a roller coaster of emotions laughs and situations they both went through during the period of time they met and now married with a family of their own. switching from past and present Daniel and Olivia show us their story little by little but at the same time making us very emotional and somehow preparing the reader for a sad revelation or conclusion.
The night we met is a second chance novel, a book that will give you hope and faith. that not everything is written, not even if we think that is the case, life always keeps giving us surprises especially at the worst moments of our lives and this book somehow made me feel this way like there is no tomorrow only the present moment to keep fighting for the ones you love, that the last thing you will ever lose is your strength and faith that everything is ok and will be ok.
one of my fav parts of this book was getting to read all the amazing places the main characters were taking us all around, it felt like we were experiencing the same feelings and moments with them.
Overall it was a good book but get ready to shed a few tears and laugh at loud.
Olivia has very little time left in her life or so that's what she thinks, she discovered she has a terrible tumor that is consuming her life, and that's when things started to change, she wanted to tell her story to let her children know how she met Daniel, how they became in love and form this amazing family, Daniel wasn't ready for this but life has a funny way to change your mind and so the story begins.
This is the story of Daniel and Olivia two souls that met a long time ago in the most unexpected situation and circunstances.. Olivia kept showing up all around Daniels's life until a drunken night where everything started to change. The Night We Met take us on a roller coaster of emotions laughs and situations they both went through during the period of time they met and now married with a family of their own. switching from past and present Daniel and Olivia show us their story little by little but at the same time making us very emotional and somehow preparing the reader for a sad revelation or conclusion.
The night we met is a second chance novel, a book that will give you hope and faith. that not everything is written, not even if we think that is the case, life always keeps giving us surprises especially at the worst moments of our lives and this book somehow made me feel this way like there is no tomorrow only the present moment to keep fighting for the ones you love, that the last thing you will ever lose is your strength and faith that everything is ok and will be ok.
one of my fav parts of this book was getting to read all the amazing places the main characters were taking us all around, it felt like we were experiencing the same feelings and moments with them.
Overall it was a good book but get ready to shed a few tears and laugh at loud.
July 29, 2021
Synopsis:-
As a man holds his wife’s fragile hand, he recounts a journey like no other….
Daniel and Olivia are destined to be together. At least, Daniel thinks this is the night he sees Olivia across a sea of people. As he backpacks through Australia, Daniel and Liv continue to cross paths, yet never speak. Until one night, Liv joins Daniel for a drink. That night everything changes.
Back in London, stuck in a monotonous routine, Daniel finds himself daydreaming of the women with Amber eyes and fiery hair. Armed with only a name he vows to find her, yet with every passing moment, Daniels hope begin to disappear. What if it wasn’t meant to be ?
But then fate steps in, and Daniel and Olivias story can truly begin…..
This is a tale of serendipity, missed chances and the power of love.
Review:-
I fully recommend to read this armed with a box of tissues and a bar of chocolate to hand as it’s the typical feel good, emotional, romantic book that could easily be indulged in one sitting. Daniel and Olivias story is told in great depths from the beginning to the end and I as the reader were given the impression that they sound like they are the complete opposite to each other, Daniels a sports reporter and Olivia is a fashion designer, both very successful in their own rights and for them to come together numerous times some without knowing the other is there, it truly seems like it is down to the luck of the gods.
They have both loved and lost pretty much from the beginning of the book and I loved the way that the story is told in past and present tense so that we learn both sides of the story as it’s played out in the story to Sophia and Flora.
A truly beautiful book that is written so well.
As a man holds his wife’s fragile hand, he recounts a journey like no other….
Daniel and Olivia are destined to be together. At least, Daniel thinks this is the night he sees Olivia across a sea of people. As he backpacks through Australia, Daniel and Liv continue to cross paths, yet never speak. Until one night, Liv joins Daniel for a drink. That night everything changes.
Back in London, stuck in a monotonous routine, Daniel finds himself daydreaming of the women with Amber eyes and fiery hair. Armed with only a name he vows to find her, yet with every passing moment, Daniels hope begin to disappear. What if it wasn’t meant to be ?
But then fate steps in, and Daniel and Olivias story can truly begin…..
This is a tale of serendipity, missed chances and the power of love.
Review:-
I fully recommend to read this armed with a box of tissues and a bar of chocolate to hand as it’s the typical feel good, emotional, romantic book that could easily be indulged in one sitting. Daniel and Olivias story is told in great depths from the beginning to the end and I as the reader were given the impression that they sound like they are the complete opposite to each other, Daniels a sports reporter and Olivia is a fashion designer, both very successful in their own rights and for them to come together numerous times some without knowing the other is there, it truly seems like it is down to the luck of the gods.
They have both loved and lost pretty much from the beginning of the book and I loved the way that the story is told in past and present tense so that we learn both sides of the story as it’s played out in the story to Sophia and Flora.
A truly beautiful book that is written so well.
February 11, 2021
If you think for a moment I'm sure you can remember making a connection with a stranger and wondering what would happen if you'd taken it further? Daniel and Olivia's love story grows from a series of encounters at different times and time zones. These culminate in one night where they realise they should be together. The story could end there, happily, but it doesn't. Olivia begs Daniel to write their story for their daughters.
This is an emotional journey full of serendipitous moments. The locational settings across the world, are rich with vivid imagery that immerses the reader in the time and place. The characters and the familial dynamic is relatable, and at times heartbreaking.
This is an undeniably, sad story, but there are lots of happy moments and powerful relationships,
that resonate. The poignant ending contains elements of positivity about the family's survival and future happiness.
I received a copy of this book from Aria via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
This is an emotional journey full of serendipitous moments. The locational settings across the world, are rich with vivid imagery that immerses the reader in the time and place. The characters and the familial dynamic is relatable, and at times heartbreaking.
This is an undeniably, sad story, but there are lots of happy moments and powerful relationships,
that resonate. The poignant ending contains elements of positivity about the family's survival and future happiness.
I received a copy of this book from Aria via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
February 13, 2021
This is one gut punch of a book. Daniel and Olivia are both travelling the world – and yet they keep seeing each other in different places. It always seems to be a case of they’re meant to meet each other but wrong place, wrong time. Just when you think they’re finally going to get together – fate steps in to lend a hand and yet again they spend time apart.
But eventually they do end up together and their story is beautiful, even though it is tinged with a little sadness. From Olivia’s struggle to deal with the death of her father before the book begins and right up to the very last page, you are left hanging on, wanting to see how their story pans out. You know what could happen, what is most likely to happen, but you keep wishing that you’ve got it wrong and fate will step in once more and lend its helping hand.
Daniel promises Olivia he will write down their love story and believe me, it is a joy to read. This book kept me gripped until the last page.
I received a copy of this book via Netgalley in return for an honest review.
But eventually they do end up together and their story is beautiful, even though it is tinged with a little sadness. From Olivia’s struggle to deal with the death of her father before the book begins and right up to the very last page, you are left hanging on, wanting to see how their story pans out. You know what could happen, what is most likely to happen, but you keep wishing that you’ve got it wrong and fate will step in once more and lend its helping hand.
Daniel promises Olivia he will write down their love story and believe me, it is a joy to read. This book kept me gripped until the last page.
I received a copy of this book via Netgalley in return for an honest review.
January 4, 2021
I would like to thank NetGalley and the publishers for giving me a copy of this ARC.
A poignant and emotional read, the story Daniel is recounting of his journey with Olivia is for their daughters, Flora and Sofia to remember when they are older. Witnessing Daniel and Olivia at varying stages of their life, going from strangers to friends to dating to marriage and finally children, paves the path for heartwarming character development. Their love grows and transforms through the decades as they experience happiness, new beginnings, fears and losses together. The author also takes you around the world with gorgeous backdrops like Japan, London, Milan, Australia, New Zealand, Switzerland and Tuscany. A love like theirs is one we all wish we had; a love to share small joys, deep pains, dark fears and forever with.
A poignant and emotional read, the story Daniel is recounting of his journey with Olivia is for their daughters, Flora and Sofia to remember when they are older. Witnessing Daniel and Olivia at varying stages of their life, going from strangers to friends to dating to marriage and finally children, paves the path for heartwarming character development. Their love grows and transforms through the decades as they experience happiness, new beginnings, fears and losses together. The author also takes you around the world with gorgeous backdrops like Japan, London, Milan, Australia, New Zealand, Switzerland and Tuscany. A love like theirs is one we all wish we had; a love to share small joys, deep pains, dark fears and forever with.
February 2, 2021
They cross paths on their travels around the world throughout the years. Olivia, the girl with a fiery hair is always out of reach and Daniel, the shy and lonely young man starts to lose hope
All until that one night that changed everything, that night when their lives just begun
THE NIGHT WE MET is a heartbreaking story that will make you shed tears in your coffee cup but also laugh out loud when you least expect it
Daniel and Olivia are meant to be together and although their love story is just gorgeous, the ending is painful
As it is spread along the years and the story jumps from present to past I got a little confused and I had to go back to certain chapters but this didn't stop me from enjoying my read
As certain subjects might be triggers, I have to mention that the book treats aspects of cancer, death and stillborn
All until that one night that changed everything, that night when their lives just begun
THE NIGHT WE MET is a heartbreaking story that will make you shed tears in your coffee cup but also laugh out loud when you least expect it
Daniel and Olivia are meant to be together and although their love story is just gorgeous, the ending is painful
As it is spread along the years and the story jumps from present to past I got a little confused and I had to go back to certain chapters but this didn't stop me from enjoying my read
As certain subjects might be triggers, I have to mention that the book treats aspects of cancer, death and stillborn
October 26, 2022
I really enjoyed reading this book. I thought it was refreshing for a female author to write a book from the perspective of a leading man.
However I think Olivia had a lot of personality and had clearly been well developed by Folbigg, whereas Daniel was a little one dimensional and deserved the same amount of care.
The Italian mothers were good characters but again Nancy was not as developed as Maria and it would have been nice to have had more depth with her, I certainly don't think there's enough content for any reader to relate to Nancy on any level.
I found it hard to believe the young Olivia and the old Olivia were the same person; apart from the reference to her hair, her personality seems completely different. A few moments of Olivia acting slightly like her old self, perhaps with her daughters, would have been nice and made the character more authentic.
The girls Flora and Sofia were well done. I liked Jim too.
It is a good read and I would definitely read more from Folbigg, but character development would bring her a higher rating.
However I think Olivia had a lot of personality and had clearly been well developed by Folbigg, whereas Daniel was a little one dimensional and deserved the same amount of care.
The Italian mothers were good characters but again Nancy was not as developed as Maria and it would have been nice to have had more depth with her, I certainly don't think there's enough content for any reader to relate to Nancy on any level.
I found it hard to believe the young Olivia and the old Olivia were the same person; apart from the reference to her hair, her personality seems completely different. A few moments of Olivia acting slightly like her old self, perhaps with her daughters, would have been nice and made the character more authentic.
The girls Flora and Sofia were well done. I liked Jim too.
It is a good read and I would definitely read more from Folbigg, but character development would bring her a higher rating.
July 13, 2021
This was an easy and beautiful read, with two threads, the love story between Daniel and Olivia and the present where Olivia is dying of cancer. Olivia begs Daniel to write their love story for their daughters and this story is alternated between the months leading up to the present day. Their love story starts in 1996, a chance meeting in Australia while they are travelling and ends in 2018 in a hospital bed. I loved the story between Daniel and Olivia, told from both points of view at various times throughout their lives, weaving to make a whole. I knew it was going to end with me in tears, which it did, but the journey there was worth it.
Thanks to Beauty and Lace Book Club and Head of Zeus for a digital copy in return for an honest review.
Thanks to Beauty and Lace Book Club and Head of Zeus for a digital copy in return for an honest review.
January 22, 2021
This is a really beautifully written book which explores the love story between two people spanning years. I loved watching their relationship grow and develop, despite knowing that their ending is imminent. I grew to really love both of the main characters and was so sad to finish it. I did feel that at times the jumping from past to present hampered the flow of the story slightly, and I at points I just wanted to get to the next section of their back story.
Thanks to netgalley, the author and publishers for gifting me this arc in exchange for an honest review.
Thanks to netgalley, the author and publishers for gifting me this arc in exchange for an honest review.
January 26, 2021
The Night We Met is a beautiful story about love and the search for a soulmate. It weaves between the past and the present to tell the love story of Olivia and Daniel. It's heartwarming and heartbreaking at the same time.
Thank you to the author, publisher, and Netgalley for the ARC. I voluntarily read and reviewed this title.
Thank you to the author, publisher, and Netgalley for the ARC. I voluntarily read and reviewed this title.
February 1, 2021
An emotional rollercoaster from start to finish. The story of Olivia and Daniel in several time streams. The format of having several time streams was not confusing at all and added to the enjoyment of the book. I cried and laughed all the way through this book. The characters are loveable and the scenery beautiful. A very good read.
Thank you Netgalley.
Thank you Netgalley.
June 22, 2021
This was my first Zoe Folbigg book despite having two on my shelf for a while and I will definitely be picking them up having read this!
I loved the characters and found the book heart breaking - seeing how two people met whilst one is ill in hospital - having read the blur I expected the main characters to be old but the fact they're young makes it all the more heart breaking. I did find the beginning a little slow but other than that I can't fault it.
I loved the characters and found the book heart breaking - seeing how two people met whilst one is ill in hospital - having read the blur I expected the main characters to be old but the fact they're young makes it all the more heart breaking. I did find the beginning a little slow but other than that I can't fault it.
August 1, 2022
This book had me SOBBING, what a lovely and sad story. I got so invested in this story, the layout was intriguing but it made the story work so well and I was hooked!
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