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Ruby #2
Let Love Win
The sequel to Working It Out From the bestselling author of the Cockleberry Bay and Ferry Lane Market series Ruby Matthews is back. She never expected to be starting over. But after a shocking bereavement, she begins to question whether she will ever be happy again. A chance encounter with handsome author Michael Bell throws her fragile heart into turmoil. Encouraged to game her demons, she volunteers at the Bow Wow Club (Boyfriends of Widows, Wives of Widowers). In this charming sequel to Working It Out, you’ll laugh and cry along with a myriad eccentric characters as Ruby searches for inner peace. Will she let love win? Or allow her past to continue to haunt her?
288 pages, Paperback
First published May 11, 2013
About the author
Nicola May
35 books607 followersHello, I'm Nicola May, author of 22 romantic comedy novels.
I look forward to sharing all my heartfelt and fun books with you.
For further information on me, my books and to read reviews please do go to www.nicolamay.com.
Happy Reading!
I look forward to sharing all my heartfelt and fun books with you.
For further information on me, my books and to read reviews please do go to www.nicolamay.com.
Happy Reading!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
April 25, 2013
Firstly I’d like to thank the author for sending me this eBook to read and give an honest review. I was so excited to hear that Working It Out was getting a sequel, Ruby was a great character and I was looking forward to catching up with her.
From reading the blurb I knew something bad had happened in Ruby’s life and I had a pretty good idea what it was going to be. The prologue confirmed my suspicions and I knew it wouldn’t be long before I was crying. Boy was I right – I just couldn’t stop the tears from falling as I read the devastating scene.
Getting past the tears, I was pleased to see that Fi was her usual whirlwind self as she tried to coax Ruby into having some kind of life. There was a real sense of fun whenever she was around and she was definitely a good (depending how you looked at it) influence on Ruby. I was thrilled that Tony Choi made a couple of appearances, he was such a memorable character from the previous book and he made me laugh just as much as he did before!
An unfortunate incident led Ruby to the wannabe author Michael Bell and when I got to read from his perspective I was excited by what I read. Things moved surprisingly quickly after that and it all seemed too good to be true, to be honest I started to think that Michael was a bit stalker-like. His book painted a confusing picture to begin with and I was desperate to find out the truth behind it. I laughed when he couldn’t decide whether certain words would be considered too rude for the book he was writing as I could picture writers in the real world facing the same dilemma. Obviously this means that the story contains some swearing and scenes of a sexual nature so be warned.
Ruby’s first visit to the Bow Wow Club was great, the crazy group of characters were so entertaining particularly Simon Dye who ended up being one of my favourite characters! Later on there was an exciting twist in the form of Harry Bowman-Green and this brought out a whole new side to the storyline that I hadn’t expected.
The author wrote about grief, and all the other feelings that go along with it, in a sensitive and honest way – there were times when I could almost feel Ruby’s emotions rolling off the page at me. Although this book could probably be read as a standalone read I would recommend reading Working It Out first, just so that you have a full picture of the characters and their history.
This was a fab one-day read that took me on a rollercoaster ride of emotions, I would definitely recommend it!
From reading the blurb I knew something bad had happened in Ruby’s life and I had a pretty good idea what it was going to be. The prologue confirmed my suspicions and I knew it wouldn’t be long before I was crying. Boy was I right – I just couldn’t stop the tears from falling as I read the devastating scene.
Getting past the tears, I was pleased to see that Fi was her usual whirlwind self as she tried to coax Ruby into having some kind of life. There was a real sense of fun whenever she was around and she was definitely a good (depending how you looked at it) influence on Ruby. I was thrilled that Tony Choi made a couple of appearances, he was such a memorable character from the previous book and he made me laugh just as much as he did before!
An unfortunate incident led Ruby to the wannabe author Michael Bell and when I got to read from his perspective I was excited by what I read. Things moved surprisingly quickly after that and it all seemed too good to be true, to be honest I started to think that Michael was a bit stalker-like. His book painted a confusing picture to begin with and I was desperate to find out the truth behind it. I laughed when he couldn’t decide whether certain words would be considered too rude for the book he was writing as I could picture writers in the real world facing the same dilemma. Obviously this means that the story contains some swearing and scenes of a sexual nature so be warned.
Ruby’s first visit to the Bow Wow Club was great, the crazy group of characters were so entertaining particularly Simon Dye who ended up being one of my favourite characters! Later on there was an exciting twist in the form of Harry Bowman-Green and this brought out a whole new side to the storyline that I hadn’t expected.
The author wrote about grief, and all the other feelings that go along with it, in a sensitive and honest way – there were times when I could almost feel Ruby’s emotions rolling off the page at me. Although this book could probably be read as a standalone read I would recommend reading Working It Out first, just so that you have a full picture of the characters and their history.
This was a fab one-day read that took me on a rollercoaster ride of emotions, I would definitely recommend it!
April 21, 2013
I was so pleased when I found out not only was Nicola May releasing another book, but her new book The Bow Wow Club is a sequel to Working It Out which means the return of the hilariuosly entertaining character Ruby!
This time around Ruby is grief stricken, her husband George has sadly passed away and her wild friend Fi is determind to get Ruby back into the land of the living and let someone into her heart again. You know having both Ruby and Fi back means there is going to be drama, entertainment and a whole trail of distruction!
This time around Nicola May manages to not only bring us many laugh out loud moments but also brings us some very moving parts which brought a lump to my throat. The way the author gets you on such a high and then suddenly out of nowhere comes a heartstopping moment.
There were many twists and turns and will they wont they moments in this book which helped to keep my interest sparked all the way through.
I loved all of the characters some who I remember from Working it Out and some quirky new ones like the lovable Simon. I must say though there was something about Micheal that had me on my guard from the moment I met him, my suspicions were aroused for some reason!
After reading The Bow Wow Club I stand by what I have always said about this author from day one, her books should be in our local bookshops up and down the country sitting among the other fantastic authors in the chart. Nicola May doesn't get the recognition she deserves so read her books and then shout about them from the roof tops!
If you are looking for a book that will have you hooked from start to finish and also have you laughing out loud then make this your next read.
This time around Ruby is grief stricken, her husband George has sadly passed away and her wild friend Fi is determind to get Ruby back into the land of the living and let someone into her heart again. You know having both Ruby and Fi back means there is going to be drama, entertainment and a whole trail of distruction!
This time around Nicola May manages to not only bring us many laugh out loud moments but also brings us some very moving parts which brought a lump to my throat. The way the author gets you on such a high and then suddenly out of nowhere comes a heartstopping moment.
There were many twists and turns and will they wont they moments in this book which helped to keep my interest sparked all the way through.
I loved all of the characters some who I remember from Working it Out and some quirky new ones like the lovable Simon. I must say though there was something about Micheal that had me on my guard from the moment I met him, my suspicions were aroused for some reason!
After reading The Bow Wow Club I stand by what I have always said about this author from day one, her books should be in our local bookshops up and down the country sitting among the other fantastic authors in the chart. Nicola May doesn't get the recognition she deserves so read her books and then shout about them from the roof tops!
If you are looking for a book that will have you hooked from start to finish and also have you laughing out loud then make this your next read.
June 10, 2013
I absolutely love the way Nicola May writes, the chapters are short and snappy but full of drama that keeps you interested and ‘in-the-loop’ with what everyone’s getting up to. I received my copy on my kindle so never got to read the blurb, so I was therefore bowled over with the death that occurs within the first few chapters – I had tears streaming down my face! After her loss, Ruby falls into a pit of hurt and grief and you feel so sad for her, it really is heart breaking. Enter Fi, Ruby’s crazy, no nonsense best friend, she manages to drag Ruby back to life and then the fun and drama really starts!
After meeting Michael, a struggling author, Ruby try’s to get her life back on track, but that’s easier said than done. Miss-interpreted messages and situations mean the pair struggles to get a relationship going and almost ruin everything for themselves. Then there’s the mysterious guy she keeps seeing around town who looks oddly familiar and the family secret that will really shock you. There are so many fab characters in this book that I could put aside my dislike for Michael: I found him needy and sickly sweet but he fit’s his role in the story perfectly and Ruby deserves a gentlemen to look after her– he’s just not my type of man.
I enjoyed this book immensely, for all the same reasons I loved At The School Gates. It’s fast-paced without missing out any details, packed with fun, full of interesting characters and, as an added bonus, it’s stuffed (ahem!) with racy sex scenes. What more could a chic lit fan want!
Reviewed by Francesca Verbeeten on behalf of BestChickLit.com.
After meeting Michael, a struggling author, Ruby try’s to get her life back on track, but that’s easier said than done. Miss-interpreted messages and situations mean the pair struggles to get a relationship going and almost ruin everything for themselves. Then there’s the mysterious guy she keeps seeing around town who looks oddly familiar and the family secret that will really shock you. There are so many fab characters in this book that I could put aside my dislike for Michael: I found him needy and sickly sweet but he fit’s his role in the story perfectly and Ruby deserves a gentlemen to look after her– he’s just not my type of man.
I enjoyed this book immensely, for all the same reasons I loved At The School Gates. It’s fast-paced without missing out any details, packed with fun, full of interesting characters and, as an added bonus, it’s stuffed (ahem!) with racy sex scenes. What more could a chic lit fan want!
Reviewed by Francesca Verbeeten on behalf of BestChickLit.com.
July 5, 2013
THE BOW WOW CLUB by Nicola May
“Ever has it been that love knows not its own depth until the hour of separation.”
― Kahlil Gibran
True to every word, this book emphasizes on the fact that when cupid strikes, it does blindly. But then it's upon us who we consider to be 'the one'. Of course destiny plays a great role in bringing two people together, making them walk on a single path.. and sometimes it's the same destiny that takes you apart from the one we thought to be our chosen one!
The Bow Wow Club- it makes you smile, it makes you cry, it makes you laugh hard and it makes you think! It's the perfect book to sit with and soak into on that day when all you want to do is to have the time of your life.. by going on a journey with Ruby :)
Be it Michael, Ruby, Fi, James, Simon, Jimmy, Barnes.. each character deserves a place in your heart.. in fact you do allot a little corner of your heart to them.
Ruby... Could actually empathize with her situation thanks to the way Nicola May describes every aspect of her emotions, the turbulence of her mind, the oh-so-sad-yet-so-wonderful journey that she embarks upon!
Hats off to you dear author for such amazing descriptions, for such a beautiful characterization and for giving hope to every not so happy soul out there.
It never drags, it's subtle, joyous and so subtly makes the reader sit back and adore the beauty of life in all it's bittersweet glory! :)
Divya Nambiar
“Ever has it been that love knows not its own depth until the hour of separation.”
― Kahlil Gibran
True to every word, this book emphasizes on the fact that when cupid strikes, it does blindly. But then it's upon us who we consider to be 'the one'. Of course destiny plays a great role in bringing two people together, making them walk on a single path.. and sometimes it's the same destiny that takes you apart from the one we thought to be our chosen one!
The Bow Wow Club- it makes you smile, it makes you cry, it makes you laugh hard and it makes you think! It's the perfect book to sit with and soak into on that day when all you want to do is to have the time of your life.. by going on a journey with Ruby :)
Be it Michael, Ruby, Fi, James, Simon, Jimmy, Barnes.. each character deserves a place in your heart.. in fact you do allot a little corner of your heart to them.
Ruby... Could actually empathize with her situation thanks to the way Nicola May describes every aspect of her emotions, the turbulence of her mind, the oh-so-sad-yet-so-wonderful journey that she embarks upon!
Hats off to you dear author for such amazing descriptions, for such a beautiful characterization and for giving hope to every not so happy soul out there.
It never drags, it's subtle, joyous and so subtly makes the reader sit back and adore the beauty of life in all it's bittersweet glory! :)
Divya Nambiar
May 24, 2013
As per my usual starting sentence, I love me some chick lit. Yes I love the style in which Nicola May writes. Mostly I enjoy the "real" aspect. Because it is sad, humerus and sexy, but not over the top. The people in her books are not wealthy, millionaires who flaunt or voluptuous woman. They are very relate-able to me. The main character is Ruby and she is at a turning point in her life. Tragedy strikes and it is a great exploration of loss. I feel so bad for her losing her husband, the love of her life in such a way. The sub characters like Fiona (Fi) are just the remedy for what ales poor Ruby. It is a VERY touching story.
After Ruby is at her lowest comes Fiona, strong and demanding. She surely gets Ruby out of the slump and back into the game. Ruby goes to a group Bow Wow Club (Boyfriends of Widows, Wives of Widowers). Therapy and a HUGE reveal change Ruby's future forever. When Ruby meets Michael I was hopeful. I thought maybe it was too soon but he was good medicine. (gushing here at the racy scenes) It goes up and down and then you gasp out loud at the reveal.
Overall I think this has been her best book so far. I see the difference in emotions and character development. She keeps you guessing about a few things and that is the build up I like in a book. I enjoyed this book more than The School Gates and Better Together. I did not think that was possible. Better Together was equally as sexy as this one.
After Ruby is at her lowest comes Fiona, strong and demanding. She surely gets Ruby out of the slump and back into the game. Ruby goes to a group Bow Wow Club (Boyfriends of Widows, Wives of Widowers). Therapy and a HUGE reveal change Ruby's future forever. When Ruby meets Michael I was hopeful. I thought maybe it was too soon but he was good medicine. (gushing here at the racy scenes) It goes up and down and then you gasp out loud at the reveal.
Overall I think this has been her best book so far. I see the difference in emotions and character development. She keeps you guessing about a few things and that is the build up I like in a book. I enjoyed this book more than The School Gates and Better Together. I did not think that was possible. Better Together was equally as sexy as this one.
April 26, 2013
Ruby, a widow and support worker at The Bow Wow Club, searches her heart to discover whether she is ready to move on with her love life after losing her beloved husband.
Michael is married, but it's complicated. Their paths cross when Ruby is mugged in the street and loses something very dear to her.
I loved the fantastic cast line up, which include a hunky fireman, supportive neighbour, a lookalike, and many more from The Bow Wow Club. However, I have to admit that Michael Bell came across as a little creepy at times with his 'warts and all' novel writing.
A novel that begins by introducing the reader to a widow who is trying to find a way to move forward with her life does sound rather serious, but I can assure you that this novel will have you laughing, crying, oohing and ahhing at the goings on of the colourful cast.
There are some really tender moments for some of the characters.
There is some swearing and it is a little naughty at times.
Thank you to Nicola May for a review copy. This did not influence my review in any way.
Michael is married, but it's complicated. Their paths cross when Ruby is mugged in the street and loses something very dear to her.
I loved the fantastic cast line up, which include a hunky fireman, supportive neighbour, a lookalike, and many more from The Bow Wow Club. However, I have to admit that Michael Bell came across as a little creepy at times with his 'warts and all' novel writing.
A novel that begins by introducing the reader to a widow who is trying to find a way to move forward with her life does sound rather serious, but I can assure you that this novel will have you laughing, crying, oohing and ahhing at the goings on of the colourful cast.
There are some really tender moments for some of the characters.
There is some swearing and it is a little naughty at times.
Thank you to Nicola May for a review copy. This did not influence my review in any way.
April 24, 2013
Wonderful story, fantastic follow up to Working it out. I would like to read the next part of Ruby's story and also to find out what happen's with Fi next.
August 21, 2025
Working it out & Let Love Win by @author_nicola
What if losing your job was the best thing that ever happened and finding love was the hardest?
Working It Out – Nicola May
After being made redundant, Ruby Matthews doesn’t spiral she reinvents. Taking on 12 different jobs in 12 months, she dives into everything from dog-walking to waitressing, meeting unforgettable characters along the way. A feel-good read that reminds you it’s never too late to start again.
And just when you thought her story ended there…
Let Love Win – Nicola May
Ruby’s journey continues as she faces love, grief, and second chances. Volunteering at the charming “Bow Wow Club” (a support group for the widowed), she finds unexpected healing and a potential new romance in mysterious writer Michael Bell.
This sequel deepens Ruby’s story with more emotion, while still keeping the humor and heart that made Working It Out shine. It’s warm, witty, and quietly profound! A story about letting go, opening up, and letting love in. 💕🐾
Both were lighthearted feel good books that you’d be sure to love!
★★★★★
-Julie
What if losing your job was the best thing that ever happened and finding love was the hardest?
Working It Out – Nicola May
After being made redundant, Ruby Matthews doesn’t spiral she reinvents. Taking on 12 different jobs in 12 months, she dives into everything from dog-walking to waitressing, meeting unforgettable characters along the way. A feel-good read that reminds you it’s never too late to start again.
And just when you thought her story ended there…
Let Love Win – Nicola May
Ruby’s journey continues as she faces love, grief, and second chances. Volunteering at the charming “Bow Wow Club” (a support group for the widowed), she finds unexpected healing and a potential new romance in mysterious writer Michael Bell.
This sequel deepens Ruby’s story with more emotion, while still keeping the humor and heart that made Working It Out shine. It’s warm, witty, and quietly profound! A story about letting go, opening up, and letting love in. 💕🐾
Both were lighthearted feel good books that you’d be sure to love!
★★★★★
-Julie
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 3, 2021
I absolutely love Nicola May books normally, and really enjoyed the first book of this, but the characters were so shallow in this sequel. They flitted around trampling on everyone's feelings on the way, just taking what they wanted. I think it somehow lost its connection with reality, leaving me with a real distaste for everyone in it. It's a shame as I was enjoying it until the 'beyond belief' twin thing.
May 24, 2024
This is a winning five-star read. This is number two in the Ruby series, and the truly do give you the best experience if you read them in order. Honestly, I thought I was going to be super sad when I read this one, as no more Gorgeous George!! This one will tug on every emotion you have, Ruby went on a journey in the last story, and this one just shows that journeys are ongoing. What a powerful story about grief and loss, and about being strong to move on.
May 6, 2020
Brilliant.
Another wonderful heartwarming tale from Nicola May. Full of twists and turns and such lovely characters. You can imagine being right there with them all ....like a nosey neighbour
Another wonderful heartwarming tale from Nicola May. Full of twists and turns and such lovely characters. You can imagine being right there with them all ....like a nosey neighbour
May 25, 2020
I really really enjoyed this book. A lovely sequel to the first story about a ruby. I can probably relate to her as she is clumsy as me in love. Can’t wait to read another Nicola May book, think I have found a new favourite author thanks to kindle unlimited!
February 19, 2021
This book was a sequel and was magical I actually devoured it in an evening and a morning.
Ruby has experienced the sudden death of her husband and this is about her finding love again. However the course of true love never does run smoothly 😂
Ruby has experienced the sudden death of her husband and this is about her finding love again. However the course of true love never does run smoothly 😂
May 19, 2020
Great
Could not put it down a lovely feel good story with a happy ending. I really hope there is more to come.
Could not put it down a lovely feel good story with a happy ending. I really hope there is more to come.
November 5, 2020
Light and uplifting
Another great book, so easy to read and get lost in. Loved every book I've read by this author so far
Another great book, so easy to read and get lost in. Loved every book I've read by this author so far
April 18, 2022
Badly written. Whoever may have edited it must have been drunk. The structure, dialogue, characters - just every aspect of this drivel- were awful. Do not try this effort!!
May 5, 2024
A fantastic sequel book; warm, humorous, easy to read - a delight of a book
October 11, 2024
Another very cringe worthy romance book that was very easy to read. This was quite a mindless read in a nice way lol.
April 21, 2013
Review: Now I am a MASSIVE Nicola May fan, having literally inhaled all four of her previous novels at the start of the year. Not only did she kindly agree to do an interview with me about her novels and her career as a writer, but I was also lucky enough to receive a copy of her brand new novel The Bow Wow club in advance of it being published to review. And what a gorgeous thing it is too. A beautiful pink cover that gives absolutely none of the story away. I was very excited to find out what Ruby from Nicola May's first novel Working it Out, had been up to and I certainly wasn't disappointed!
I loved Ruby in Working in Out. She wasn't over powered by anything. She was a strong independent woman who knew what she wanted and went for it. She is certainly back with a bang in this novel. She is still the same strong independent woman, but time has moved on. She has taken a few hits in the time since we last heard from her and now she is moving on with her life. The same mix of characters are there as in the first novel, wild child, best friend Fi and her lovely boyfriend James. Nosey neighbour Margaret who always has a few words of wisdom for our lovely heroine Ruby's family and even comedy character Tony Choi who worked with Ruby at the sex clinic in Working it Out. The characters are all just as well written as in this author's previous novel, and I think its great that they are all quirky characters who you might not necessarily expect to find in a romantic comedy novel. I think that this is one of the reasons I like Nicola May's novels so much-they don't contain cookie cutter girls and boys, there's space for the social outcasts as well as the typical guy next door, its a great mix!
As I said at the start of this review, Ruby has grown up and is moving on with her life. This must have been a big decision for Nicola May to make, to pick up the novel a few years down the line, rather than carry on from where she left off in Working it Out. I think it is a decision which has really paid off though. It makes sense for Ruby to have changed and evolved and the issue dealt with in the novel are more grown-up issues and have moved on from the first novel. I like the fact the The Bow Wow club itself deals with grief and yet in a light-hearted and realistic way. Infertility is dealt with as is the issue of infidelity. And yet May still manages to get some wonderful sex scenes in there, as she has done in previous novels. There is a new character Michael, an author funnily enough, who continuously breaks off from writing his own sex scenes to masturbate. I found this really funny, and yet totally believable! There is a lovely bit in the book from his perspective where he is described as such: "He wanted to squeeze her everyday and tell her everything would always be alright. Yes, she was independent, but also vulnerable. Like everyone was on a way."
Having been anxiously awaiting the release of this novel. I was not disappointed at all. Having been expecting a straight sequel to Ruby's story i was surprised to find the jump in time, and yet I was really pleased with the result. The fact that Ruby and the other characters have grown up and moved on with their lives was a great step, and made for a nice meaty read. The usual elements of Nicola May's other novels are still there so fans will not be disappointed and yet I think it also works well as a stand alone novel, and so if this is your first foray into this authors writing, you are in for a treat! A great sequel, Ruby has successfully been resurrected for our enjoyment!
I loved Ruby in Working in Out. She wasn't over powered by anything. She was a strong independent woman who knew what she wanted and went for it. She is certainly back with a bang in this novel. She is still the same strong independent woman, but time has moved on. She has taken a few hits in the time since we last heard from her and now she is moving on with her life. The same mix of characters are there as in the first novel, wild child, best friend Fi and her lovely boyfriend James. Nosey neighbour Margaret who always has a few words of wisdom for our lovely heroine Ruby's family and even comedy character Tony Choi who worked with Ruby at the sex clinic in Working it Out. The characters are all just as well written as in this author's previous novel, and I think its great that they are all quirky characters who you might not necessarily expect to find in a romantic comedy novel. I think that this is one of the reasons I like Nicola May's novels so much-they don't contain cookie cutter girls and boys, there's space for the social outcasts as well as the typical guy next door, its a great mix!
As I said at the start of this review, Ruby has grown up and is moving on with her life. This must have been a big decision for Nicola May to make, to pick up the novel a few years down the line, rather than carry on from where she left off in Working it Out. I think it is a decision which has really paid off though. It makes sense for Ruby to have changed and evolved and the issue dealt with in the novel are more grown-up issues and have moved on from the first novel. I like the fact the The Bow Wow club itself deals with grief and yet in a light-hearted and realistic way. Infertility is dealt with as is the issue of infidelity. And yet May still manages to get some wonderful sex scenes in there, as she has done in previous novels. There is a new character Michael, an author funnily enough, who continuously breaks off from writing his own sex scenes to masturbate. I found this really funny, and yet totally believable! There is a lovely bit in the book from his perspective where he is described as such: "He wanted to squeeze her everyday and tell her everything would always be alright. Yes, she was independent, but also vulnerable. Like everyone was on a way."
Having been anxiously awaiting the release of this novel. I was not disappointed at all. Having been expecting a straight sequel to Ruby's story i was surprised to find the jump in time, and yet I was really pleased with the result. The fact that Ruby and the other characters have grown up and moved on with their lives was a great step, and made for a nice meaty read. The usual elements of Nicola May's other novels are still there so fans will not be disappointed and yet I think it also works well as a stand alone novel, and so if this is your first foray into this authors writing, you are in for a treat! A great sequel, Ruby has successfully been resurrected for our enjoyment!
May 15, 2013
Nicola May wrote a terrific book called Working It Out which I read in 2011, where we first met Ruby Matthews and her fabulously flamboyant friends and neighbours. In this book, the sequel, Ruby experiences tragedy and loss like she could never imagine.
While she is trying so hard to get on with her life she meets gorgeous author Michael Bell who turns her life upside down. In an attempt to sort her head out, she volunteers to help out at the BOW WOW Club (Boyfriends of Widows, Wives of Widowers). She hopes that this club will give her the courage to move forward in an extremely difficult time of her life. It is at this club that she meets the most wonderful people, all with a hilarious background and only Nicola could put someone with Tourette's syndrome into a book and make it hilariously funny without offending anyone.
About quarter of the way through reading this hilarious book, I realised that I had read the majority of it with a bit great big grin on my face. The characters that we met in the last book, continue their lives which are completely bonkers and tons of fun. The book is told from two sides, from Ruby's and also from Michael's and there are some quite rude thoughts from Michael, but they just make the story what it is and aren't in the least bit offensive.
In true Nicola May style I laughed out loud so many times while reading this book and just loved every single second of it which I devoured in just two sessions. The first night I was only going to read a couple of chapters but found myself forcing it out of my hands when I got to Chapter 18 and realised that I was going to be exhausted the next day. It was one of those books that you keep thinking about even when you are away from it and I couldn't wait to get home to read it.
I honestly could read about Ruby, her life, her friends and the antics they get up to until the day that she dies. No pressure there Nicola May but one book a year about Ruby till she's in a care home would be pretty fab! Actually I bet Nicola could write some cracking stories about Ruby and Fi in an old folks home! They would be having such a whale of a time! She is so good at developing characters that you feel you have known all your life. I'd quite like to go to the pub with Ruby, Fi and Nicola - they would be such good fun on a night out although I'm not sure I'd keep up with them!
This completely delicious book was such great fun to read from start to finish but there were also points that I found extremely emotional too. The ending was exactly what I wished for and had me with tears streaming down my face yet laughing at the same time - not a pretty sight I have to admit! It warmed the cockles of my heart with the fairytale ending. A fabulous feel-good read.
Nicola's biography says that she is a huge fan of and is inspired by her favourite authors Milly Johnson and Carole Matthews. Nicola May should be high up on the bookshop shelves with these two amazing authors and lovely ladies as she is most definitely a best selling author with a wonderfully emotional and hilarious writing style that I could read forever. I think her writing gets better with each novel she writes.
While she is trying so hard to get on with her life she meets gorgeous author Michael Bell who turns her life upside down. In an attempt to sort her head out, she volunteers to help out at the BOW WOW Club (Boyfriends of Widows, Wives of Widowers). She hopes that this club will give her the courage to move forward in an extremely difficult time of her life. It is at this club that she meets the most wonderful people, all with a hilarious background and only Nicola could put someone with Tourette's syndrome into a book and make it hilariously funny without offending anyone.
About quarter of the way through reading this hilarious book, I realised that I had read the majority of it with a bit great big grin on my face. The characters that we met in the last book, continue their lives which are completely bonkers and tons of fun. The book is told from two sides, from Ruby's and also from Michael's and there are some quite rude thoughts from Michael, but they just make the story what it is and aren't in the least bit offensive.
In true Nicola May style I laughed out loud so many times while reading this book and just loved every single second of it which I devoured in just two sessions. The first night I was only going to read a couple of chapters but found myself forcing it out of my hands when I got to Chapter 18 and realised that I was going to be exhausted the next day. It was one of those books that you keep thinking about even when you are away from it and I couldn't wait to get home to read it.
I honestly could read about Ruby, her life, her friends and the antics they get up to until the day that she dies. No pressure there Nicola May but one book a year about Ruby till she's in a care home would be pretty fab! Actually I bet Nicola could write some cracking stories about Ruby and Fi in an old folks home! They would be having such a whale of a time! She is so good at developing characters that you feel you have known all your life. I'd quite like to go to the pub with Ruby, Fi and Nicola - they would be such good fun on a night out although I'm not sure I'd keep up with them!
This completely delicious book was such great fun to read from start to finish but there were also points that I found extremely emotional too. The ending was exactly what I wished for and had me with tears streaming down my face yet laughing at the same time - not a pretty sight I have to admit! It warmed the cockles of my heart with the fairytale ending. A fabulous feel-good read.
Nicola's biography says that she is a huge fan of and is inspired by her favourite authors Milly Johnson and Carole Matthews. Nicola May should be high up on the bookshop shelves with these two amazing authors and lovely ladies as she is most definitely a best selling author with a wonderfully emotional and hilarious writing style that I could read forever. I think her writing gets better with each novel she writes.
May 13, 2013
In The Bow Wow Club, we again meet up with Ruby, who has experienced a shocking bereavement and is struggling to come to terms with what has happened, as well as questioning whether she will be happy again. As Ruby struggles with adjusting to life, she meets the handsome Michael Bell, who shakes her life up even more. Ruby volunteers at The Bow Wow Club (Boyfriends of Widows, Wives of Widowers) in the hope that it might help her and give her a bit of support.
I really thoroughly enjoyed The Bow Wow Club. I read the book in two sittings and it was the type of book that was very difficult to be parted from once I had picked it up.
This book really took me on a rollercoaster of emotions, Nicola May has done very well in writing scenes in this novel as she brought out a whole range of emotions from me. There are some very emotional and moving scenes, and though I won’t go into it in detail as I don’t want to spoil it for you, there were a few times where I was reaching for the tissues.
But don’t worry, it’s not all sad. In fact, most of the book is HILARIOUS! I spent a lot of time tittering and giggling away on the sofa, emerging red-faced from the pages where I was laughing so much.
Ruby is such a fantastic character, you can’t help but warm to her, and I really enjoyed continuing a journey with her and being with reunited with her character in this book. I LOVED the time I spent with Ruby and I’d go as far to say that I would really love another book with Ruby in…there is just something about Ruby and her friends that is so addictive and fun and I just wanted to spend all my time reading about them!
The Bow Wow Club is an excellent book that is full of so much fun and laughter! There are some truly brilliant twists and turns that I didn’t see coming…wow! And as well as the funny moments, there are a few heartfelt scenes that will touch you. This book is unique, it is unpredictable and I would very much recommend it!
I really thoroughly enjoyed The Bow Wow Club. I read the book in two sittings and it was the type of book that was very difficult to be parted from once I had picked it up.
This book really took me on a rollercoaster of emotions, Nicola May has done very well in writing scenes in this novel as she brought out a whole range of emotions from me. There are some very emotional and moving scenes, and though I won’t go into it in detail as I don’t want to spoil it for you, there were a few times where I was reaching for the tissues.
But don’t worry, it’s not all sad. In fact, most of the book is HILARIOUS! I spent a lot of time tittering and giggling away on the sofa, emerging red-faced from the pages where I was laughing so much.
Ruby is such a fantastic character, you can’t help but warm to her, and I really enjoyed continuing a journey with her and being with reunited with her character in this book. I LOVED the time I spent with Ruby and I’d go as far to say that I would really love another book with Ruby in…there is just something about Ruby and her friends that is so addictive and fun and I just wanted to spend all my time reading about them!
The Bow Wow Club is an excellent book that is full of so much fun and laughter! There are some truly brilliant twists and turns that I didn’t see coming…wow! And as well as the funny moments, there are a few heartfelt scenes that will touch you. This book is unique, it is unpredictable and I would very much recommend it!
May 18, 2013
Ruby Stevens had been happily married to George for five years when tragedy had struck leaving her a widow. Fifteen months later and after been mugged, Michael comes to her aid and is really kind to her so they begin a relationship. But when Michael feels that it may be too soon for Ruby to be in a relationship he backs away, knowing that she is still grieving, he decides to give her time in the hope that she will realise that she has feelings for Michael and that she will come back to him.
But when Ruby spots a guy who looks just like her deceased husband, she cannot help but feel attracted to him and she arranges to go out with him. Has Michael lost his chance at love?
The Bow Wow Club is a club that Ruby volunteers at. Bow Wow short for boyfriend of widows, wives of widowers. The aim of the club is to help people who are dating the bereaved. Learning and sharing experiences about what it is like and the problems that can come up after your partner as lost somebody close to them.
This is the sequel to the brilliant Nicola may book, Working it out. This is a love story, all about moving on. The story is told with good humour and warm wit that keep this book an entertaining and lively read from beginning to end. Another great read from author Nicola May.
But when Ruby spots a guy who looks just like her deceased husband, she cannot help but feel attracted to him and she arranges to go out with him. Has Michael lost his chance at love?
The Bow Wow Club is a club that Ruby volunteers at. Bow Wow short for boyfriend of widows, wives of widowers. The aim of the club is to help people who are dating the bereaved. Learning and sharing experiences about what it is like and the problems that can come up after your partner as lost somebody close to them.
This is the sequel to the brilliant Nicola may book, Working it out. This is a love story, all about moving on. The story is told with good humour and warm wit that keep this book an entertaining and lively read from beginning to end. Another great read from author Nicola May.
May 14, 2013
From the opening page you are giggling.
You are greeted with crude jokes and taxidermy, with a side order of death and sorrow, Brilliant!
(Not in a pure brilliant he's dead kinda way, but in a brilliant that's some opening of a book kinda way.)
The story sees the return of the much loved Ruby Stevens nee Matthews (working it out 2011).
After the love of her life George dies leaving her utterly heart broken, poor ruby goes on a road of mourning and self destruct. After being mugged one day, she is taken care of by a man with big strong hands. Here Ruby's road to recovery, strength and love begins.
This book is so full of fun, love and raw emotion. It has some shocking secrets and twists that will have you wanting to either scream out loud with frustration, laugh out loud, or struggle to keep the lump in your throat away. It's still got the full Nicola May uniqueness, with her quirky take on characters, manic plots and more so her way with words. You can't not love it.
I recommend you read working it out first to be able to take on the full warmth of this book.
You are greeted with crude jokes and taxidermy, with a side order of death and sorrow, Brilliant!
(Not in a pure brilliant he's dead kinda way, but in a brilliant that's some opening of a book kinda way.)
The story sees the return of the much loved Ruby Stevens nee Matthews (working it out 2011).
After the love of her life George dies leaving her utterly heart broken, poor ruby goes on a road of mourning and self destruct. After being mugged one day, she is taken care of by a man with big strong hands. Here Ruby's road to recovery, strength and love begins.
This book is so full of fun, love and raw emotion. It has some shocking secrets and twists that will have you wanting to either scream out loud with frustration, laugh out loud, or struggle to keep the lump in your throat away. It's still got the full Nicola May uniqueness, with her quirky take on characters, manic plots and more so her way with words. You can't not love it.
I recommend you read working it out first to be able to take on the full warmth of this book.
June 26, 2013
After winning a signed copy of this book from Nicola (Thank you!) I was interested to see what it was going to be like. I often pick up these kinds of books in shops. Easy reads.
I liked the book. Considering there was one before it which I hadn't read, it didn't matter. I fully got the story line and understood everything that was written.
The reason I can't say I loved it, is because the main character got on my nerves a bit. I won't go in to detail as I don't want to spoil it for people and really want people to give the book a go, as it may just be me. At times I felt it was a little "As if that would ever happen" kind of story.
But all in all it was an easy read and written well. Though sorry to say I wasn't blown away and probably will forget I have read it, even though I enjoyed it for the time being.
I liked the book. Considering there was one before it which I hadn't read, it didn't matter. I fully got the story line and understood everything that was written.
The reason I can't say I loved it, is because the main character got on my nerves a bit. I won't go in to detail as I don't want to spoil it for people and really want people to give the book a go, as it may just be me. At times I felt it was a little "As if that would ever happen" kind of story.
But all in all it was an easy read and written well. Though sorry to say I wasn't blown away and probably will forget I have read it, even though I enjoyed it for the time being.
February 26, 2015
I've read one of Nicola May's books before and was disappointed but have had her recommended by people so strongly that thought I'd give another book a try. I really really didn't enjoy this book. The dialogue in particular is poor, every character says 'so' so much it made me angry each time I came across it and characters refer to who they are talking to by full name all the time which makes all chat false sounding and clunky. The plot was flabby (*spoiler* dead husband's adopted twin was a particular low point). Nicola May obviously has fans so her work must be working for other people, but definitely not for me.
October 8, 2013
I really enjoyed this book with varied characters it was a nice mix of laughter & tears at the sad times of all the different people. It showed how you can take things for granted then in one moment life changes completely.
Really liked the way you follow Ruby through the highs & low times in her life only to have love find a way of breaking through her grief of losing George so young & putting her life back together.
Really liked the way you follow Ruby through the highs & low times in her life only to have love find a way of breaking through her grief of losing George so young & putting her life back together.
August 24, 2019
Really happy that I have began to read this authors books. This is the fourth book I have read (The Corner Shop in Cockleberry Bay, Meet me in Cockleberry Bay and Working it out ) I have not been disappointed yet,fell in love with the characters, the setting and the story. Can’t wait to read more 📚📚
June 9, 2013
Not quite as good as Working it Out. I was so shocked with the events of the first paragraph that it took me a while to get over it. Would love a follow up story though. Love Margaret and Bert and Fi is such a character
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