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The Last Charm
A moving and heartwarming love story perfect for fans of Me Before You and One Day in December…
Leila’s charm bracelet tells a story of love, a story of loss, a story of hope. This is the story of her … and the story of Jake.
When Leila Jones loses her precious charm bracelet and a stranger finds it, she has to tell the story of how she got the charms to prove she’s the owner. Each and every one is a precious memory of her life with Jake.
So Leila starts at the beginning, recounting the charms and experiences that have led her to the present. A present she never could have expected when she met Jake nearly twenty years ago…
Leila’s charm bracelet tells a story of love, a story of loss, a story of hope. This is the story of her … and the story of Jake.
When Leila Jones loses her precious charm bracelet and a stranger finds it, she has to tell the story of how she got the charms to prove she’s the owner. Each and every one is a precious memory of her life with Jake.
So Leila starts at the beginning, recounting the charms and experiences that have led her to the present. A present she never could have expected when she met Jake nearly twenty years ago…
393 pages, Paperback
Published August 21, 2020
121 people are currently reading
1259 people want to read
About the author
Ella Allbright
2 books38 followersA self-confessed reading addict, Ella Allbright writes commercial women's fiction set in her beautiful home county of Dorset. Her first novel in this genre 'The Charm Bracelet' will be published in August 2020 by One More Chapter, an imprint of HarperCollins, and she's currently hard at work on her next book. Ella is represented by agent Hattie Grünewald at The Blair Partnership.
Ella also writes as Nikki Moore, the author of the popular #LoveLondon romance series. A number of the novellas featured in the Top 100 short story charts on Kobo and the Top 20 in the Amazon UK bestsellers Holiday chart, and in 2018 the collection was released in Italy. Her first published work was the short story 'A Night to Remember' in the best selling Mills & Boon / RNA anthology 'Truly, Madly, Deeply.' Her debut romance 'Crazy, Undercover, Love' was shortlisted for the RNA Joan Hessayon Award 2015.
When not writing or reading, she can be found working in her HR day job, walking the family's cute beagle puppy or watching a Netflix series!
You can connect with Ella/Nikki on:
Twitter: @NikkiMoore_Auth
www. Facebook.com/EllaAllbrightWrites
www.nikkimooreauthor.wordpress.com
She also vlogs about how to get published as 'Author By The Sea' on her YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQNV...
Ella also writes as Nikki Moore, the author of the popular #LoveLondon romance series. A number of the novellas featured in the Top 100 short story charts on Kobo and the Top 20 in the Amazon UK bestsellers Holiday chart, and in 2018 the collection was released in Italy. Her first published work was the short story 'A Night to Remember' in the best selling Mills & Boon / RNA anthology 'Truly, Madly, Deeply.' Her debut romance 'Crazy, Undercover, Love' was shortlisted for the RNA Joan Hessayon Award 2015.
When not writing or reading, she can be found working in her HR day job, walking the family's cute beagle puppy or watching a Netflix series!
You can connect with Ella/Nikki on:
Twitter: @NikkiMoore_Auth
www. Facebook.com/EllaAllbrightWrites
www.nikkimooreauthor.wordpress.com
She also vlogs about how to get published as 'Author By The Sea' on her YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQNV...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 362 reviews
September 9, 2020
Beautiful and emotional. Tender and touching. Heartwarming and heart wrenching. Ella Allbright’s enchanting storytelling hit me right in the feels. This is the story of Leila and Jake. The story spans 15 years and highlights the events that the charms on Leila‘s charm bracelet represent. A heart, a key, a dog, a car, a rainbow, a champagne bottle, A pencil, a book.... The story is told linearly so we really get to watch Layla, Jack, and their friends and family laugh, cry, and live through the years. The story has such a raw and authentic quality and I was completely invested in the lives of these characters. Leila was a great character, but wow did that girl frustrate me. Jake I just loved him he really was an honorable man. All the secondary characters added so much heart and charm to the story. This book really took me by surprise, it exceeded my expectations, and will stay with me for a long time. A stunning heartfelt story.
This book in emojis ✏️ 📖 🐶 🎨 🎼 🌈 🚗 🗝
*** Big thank you to One More Chapter for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
This book in emojis ✏️ 📖 🐶 🎨 🎼 🌈 🚗 🗝
*** Big thank you to One More Chapter for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
September 26, 2020
The Last Charm was an entertaining book. It is a cute story with a unique premise. Some things were predictable but there was enough originality to make it interesting. I wasn't very invested in the book or the characters until the end of the book. The ending was perfect.
Thank you NetGalley, One More Chapter and Harper Collins Audio UK for The Last Charm.
Full review: https://justreadingjess.wordpress.com...
Thank you NetGalley, One More Chapter and Harper Collins Audio UK for The Last Charm.
Full review: https://justreadingjess.wordpress.com...
August 25, 2020
Favorite Quote:
‘Along with my dad, my grandad taught me about the kind of person I want to be… Someone who can look at themselves in the mirror and be proud. Someone,’ I finish, my voice echoing through the church, ‘who makes the people around them better just for knowing them. That’s what he gave me,’ I say in a fierce voice. ‘That’s who he was. I’ll miss him, but he’ll still be with us all, because every time one of us does something good that we can be proud of, and every time we look in the mirror and feel it, he’ll be there.’
My Review:
I am ruined – Nikki Moore broke me and turned me inside out more than once. This crafty author hit all the feels, several times each and with a poignancy that still stings my eyes and constricts my throat when I consider how the events were staged. Ms. Moore’s character development was nothing short of phenomenal with a full cast of oddly compelling and uniquely damaged individuals. I never fully joined team Leila as she was an immature and self-absorbed prickly pear who was often overflowing with resentment; prone to stubborn, impulsive, and hypersensitive behaviors; and was rather horrid, petty, and harsh in her treatment of the lovely Jake. Jake had numerous challenges of his own and was totally undeserving of her vile comments and wrath, yet he accepted her abuse as he had his horrific childhood. Jake’s storylines were tragic so, of course, I adored him!
The writing was emotive and left a deep bruise on my coronary muscle. Despite her rather prolific career with words, this was my first exposure to the agile scribblings and emotive storytelling of Nikki Moore/Ella Allbright, and while I was conflicted most of the way through and eager to administer a few well-primed pinches to the bratty main character, I would not have been able to walk away from this complex and maddeningly paced tale had my hair been on fire.
‘Along with my dad, my grandad taught me about the kind of person I want to be… Someone who can look at themselves in the mirror and be proud. Someone,’ I finish, my voice echoing through the church, ‘who makes the people around them better just for knowing them. That’s what he gave me,’ I say in a fierce voice. ‘That’s who he was. I’ll miss him, but he’ll still be with us all, because every time one of us does something good that we can be proud of, and every time we look in the mirror and feel it, he’ll be there.’
My Review:
I am ruined – Nikki Moore broke me and turned me inside out more than once. This crafty author hit all the feels, several times each and with a poignancy that still stings my eyes and constricts my throat when I consider how the events were staged. Ms. Moore’s character development was nothing short of phenomenal with a full cast of oddly compelling and uniquely damaged individuals. I never fully joined team Leila as she was an immature and self-absorbed prickly pear who was often overflowing with resentment; prone to stubborn, impulsive, and hypersensitive behaviors; and was rather horrid, petty, and harsh in her treatment of the lovely Jake. Jake had numerous challenges of his own and was totally undeserving of her vile comments and wrath, yet he accepted her abuse as he had his horrific childhood. Jake’s storylines were tragic so, of course, I adored him!
The writing was emotive and left a deep bruise on my coronary muscle. Despite her rather prolific career with words, this was my first exposure to the agile scribblings and emotive storytelling of Nikki Moore/Ella Allbright, and while I was conflicted most of the way through and eager to administer a few well-primed pinches to the bratty main character, I would not have been able to walk away from this complex and maddeningly paced tale had my hair been on fire.
Read
August 26, 2020I saw the cover and when I read the blurb I was super excited.
The story’s concept was very intriguing!
Leila and Jake met at a vey young age. Leila was 11 and Jake 13. He and his family moved into Leila’s house while she and her dad had just moved into her grandfather’s because her mother abandoned them. Before her mother left though, she left a bracelet to Leila. Leila then, started receiving charms for this bracelet and thought they were from her mother.
The two kids met few times throughout the years that followed.
Within every chapter, the year’s moments were presented relatively, as well as the story behind of the year’s bracelet charm.
However, I was struggling to keep reading because the development was crawling.
Leila was a bitter, mean, immature and so unlikeable character!!! 😱🙄😱
On the contrary, Jake was a beautiful soul, loveable, caring, brave and so patient!
I couldn’t fathom how could he have developed any feelings for her... 🙄
Unfortunately, I was so let down with my reading choice.
Apart from being very slow burn, the story was dragging and it exhausted me.
I had the best intentions for this book but I couldn’t be invested in it...
dnf @ 32%
The story’s concept was very intriguing!
Leila and Jake met at a vey young age. Leila was 11 and Jake 13. He and his family moved into Leila’s house while she and her dad had just moved into her grandfather’s because her mother abandoned them. Before her mother left though, she left a bracelet to Leila. Leila then, started receiving charms for this bracelet and thought they were from her mother.
The two kids met few times throughout the years that followed.
Within every chapter, the year’s moments were presented relatively, as well as the story behind of the year’s bracelet charm.
However, I was struggling to keep reading because the development was crawling.
Leila was a bitter, mean, immature and so unlikeable character!!! 😱🙄😱
On the contrary, Jake was a beautiful soul, loveable, caring, brave and so patient!
I couldn’t fathom how could he have developed any feelings for her... 🙄
Unfortunately, I was so let down with my reading choice.
Apart from being very slow burn, the story was dragging and it exhausted me.
I had the best intentions for this book but I couldn’t be invested in it...
dnf @ 32%
August 21, 2020
Magical, heartwarming, charming, heartbreaking, enthralling... really, this book is simply beautiful, The author has written an extremely emotional story, full of love and hope and also sadness, but the positive emotions far outweigh the sad, negative ones.
I loved Leila and Jake and I enjoyed seeing their friendship develop; will a relationship ensue?
Jake is the most charming, loyal, understanding and patient friend that one could ever hope for and he feels a pull towards Leila and the need to protect her.
Leila needs handling with care and as you read it will become clear to you why. Both Jake and Leila have an invisible bond, and something that they have in common and although for different reasons, it amounts to the same thing.
A gift is left for Leila and the beautiful story begins. To begin with, Leila's friendship with Jake brings us some scenes which are funny but some which will tear at your heart. However, these help the two wonderful characters to achieve their dreams and it helps them to become better people in adulthood.
Leila tells her side of the story and we also get to hear Jakes. I was totally absorbed in the story and this is one of those books that hugs you and holds tight; I just felt like shutting out the real world while I lost myself with Jake and Leila in their world. Little things, things that Jake did or what Leila did, they touched me so much, I love the authors writing, she really has a brilliant imagination and it is very well structured.
I think that the setting was perfect, I enjoyed reading about Durdle Door, especially, and I could visualize it even though I have never been. I need to make a visit one day and when I do, I will picture Leila and Jake in this special place.
I loved everything about the storyline, apart from one thing and that is down to myself, not the author!
I can't wait to read more from Ella Allbright, and if her future books are as intense and emotionally charged as this one, I will make sure that I have plenty of tissues to hand! I can't recommend this highly enough. It is amazingly good!
Thank you very much to the author and to One More Chapter
Harper Collins Uk
I loved Leila and Jake and I enjoyed seeing their friendship develop; will a relationship ensue?
Jake is the most charming, loyal, understanding and patient friend that one could ever hope for and he feels a pull towards Leila and the need to protect her.
Leila needs handling with care and as you read it will become clear to you why. Both Jake and Leila have an invisible bond, and something that they have in common and although for different reasons, it amounts to the same thing.
A gift is left for Leila and the beautiful story begins. To begin with, Leila's friendship with Jake brings us some scenes which are funny but some which will tear at your heart. However, these help the two wonderful characters to achieve their dreams and it helps them to become better people in adulthood.
Leila tells her side of the story and we also get to hear Jakes. I was totally absorbed in the story and this is one of those books that hugs you and holds tight; I just felt like shutting out the real world while I lost myself with Jake and Leila in their world. Little things, things that Jake did or what Leila did, they touched me so much, I love the authors writing, she really has a brilliant imagination and it is very well structured.
I think that the setting was perfect, I enjoyed reading about Durdle Door, especially, and I could visualize it even though I have never been. I need to make a visit one day and when I do, I will picture Leila and Jake in this special place.
I loved everything about the storyline, apart from one thing and that is down to myself, not the author!
I can't wait to read more from Ella Allbright, and if her future books are as intense and emotionally charged as this one, I will make sure that I have plenty of tissues to hand! I can't recommend this highly enough. It is amazingly good!
Thank you very much to the author and to One More Chapter
Harper Collins Uk
May 16, 2020
Leila tells us about her Charm bracelet, the story behind each charm and her relationship with Jake.
A slow burning love story about these two characters and all the ups and downs that happen in their lives.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Collins UK - One More Chapter for my e- copy in exchange for an honest review.
A slow burning love story about these two characters and all the ups and downs that happen in their lives.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Collins UK - One More Chapter for my e- copy in exchange for an honest review.
August 6, 2020
This was a lovely book to read it had its sad moments as well as happy but, I loved it. It was the type of book you could take on holiday and read it on the beach in one day. I love books like this as it takes you away from the cares of the world for a few hours.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
October 11, 2020
This was so 💔😭
November 16, 2020
When picking this up, I somewhat expected it to resemble ‘Dear Emmie Blue’ which I absolutely loved and I was fully prepared to shed some tears but what I received was far from it.
‘The Last Charm’ shares the story of Leila and Jake’s journey, the love that blossomed between them and the charms that they gathered over the course of twenty years. Filled with family drama, angst, abuse, misunderstandings, death and bubbling romance—I was ready for this to tug at my heartstrings but it sadly didn’t and it was simply because of Leila.
She was judgmental, selfish and needed to get a better hold of her emotions. Lashing out and saying insensitive, hurtful things to Jake. I wasn't feeling that. This precious bean deserved better. And the back and forth forgive and forget I hate you I love you bull was too repetitive for my taste.
But I will say the only part that stood out was the ending. It was absolutely devastating and even though I knew it was heading in that direction, it didn’t make it hurt any less because like I said—Jake deserved better. I won’t say no more but everything that led up to that moment and what could’ve been could only be summed up into one word: damn.
April 27, 2020
I had no pre-conceptions about this story, and even as I was reading, wasn't completely sure what direction it would ultimately take. For which I'm delighted and think its the best way to go into this story - so that you can experience it fully, without any hints of the specifics in advance.
And in saying that, it makes writing this review a whole lot harder!
This is the story of Leila and her charm bracelet. She is recounting exactly how each charm came into her life, and so we see her grow up from age 10, up to present day. We go through highs and lows with her, and although we are only getting snapshots of her at various ages and points in her life, you feel like you get to know her incredibly well.
I love how this isn't flashbacks interspersed with present day - there is a short intro which is a valid way of explaining why we are getting the story of each charm, and then that isn't referred to again, until it is relevant towards the end.
So it really is watching Leila and her friends and family grow up. There are characters that appear in most chapters, and there is one particular person who is very present in this book besides Leila. And it is the parallel of both of their stories and seeing how they both develop that fascinated me.
I found this to be a really gentle read, it was a book I was always delighted when I could pick it back up, and lose myself within the next instalment of Leila's life. I'm very impressed that a book about a charm bracelet could develop the way it did, and I absolutely adored everything about this story.
There are ups and downs, definitely some emotional bits but also some sections that will make you smile. I don't want to say much more other than this book is very well written, it had me completely engaged with it, and I'm very much looking forward to Ella Allbright's next book as I know I need to read more by her.
Thank you to One More Chapter and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
And in saying that, it makes writing this review a whole lot harder!
This is the story of Leila and her charm bracelet. She is recounting exactly how each charm came into her life, and so we see her grow up from age 10, up to present day. We go through highs and lows with her, and although we are only getting snapshots of her at various ages and points in her life, you feel like you get to know her incredibly well.
I love how this isn't flashbacks interspersed with present day - there is a short intro which is a valid way of explaining why we are getting the story of each charm, and then that isn't referred to again, until it is relevant towards the end.
So it really is watching Leila and her friends and family grow up. There are characters that appear in most chapters, and there is one particular person who is very present in this book besides Leila. And it is the parallel of both of their stories and seeing how they both develop that fascinated me.
I found this to be a really gentle read, it was a book I was always delighted when I could pick it back up, and lose myself within the next instalment of Leila's life. I'm very impressed that a book about a charm bracelet could develop the way it did, and I absolutely adored everything about this story.
There are ups and downs, definitely some emotional bits but also some sections that will make you smile. I don't want to say much more other than this book is very well written, it had me completely engaged with it, and I'm very much looking forward to Ella Allbright's next book as I know I need to read more by her.
Thank you to One More Chapter and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
March 18, 2020
I did not enjoy this book. The premise - and the prologue - sounded so good, sounded like a book I could sink my teeth into. An emotional story that I couldn't wait to read.
What a disappointment.
I could not find any empathy for Leila at all. At the start of the story, she is a young girl, and is written as a young girl, struggling with many changes. However... that little girl never grew up. The Leila at the end of the story is just as immature and spoiled (as is mentioned in the book) as she was as a young girl. Her character did not develop past the first chapter, and given she is the main character, I could not find any empathy for her, especially compared to the changes Jake made from when we first met him.
This book wasn't for me, but I thank Netgalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
What a disappointment.
I could not find any empathy for Leila at all. At the start of the story, she is a young girl, and is written as a young girl, struggling with many changes. However... that little girl never grew up. The Leila at the end of the story is just as immature and spoiled (as is mentioned in the book) as she was as a young girl. Her character did not develop past the first chapter, and given she is the main character, I could not find any empathy for her, especially compared to the changes Jake made from when we first met him.
This book wasn't for me, but I thank Netgalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 28, 2020
I had no idea that this book was going to be so good! I really wasn’t even sure what it was about. I knew there was romance and I was hoping for indescribably closeness, and I don’t mean physically. The book really got to me. I didn’t want to stop reading it and I didn’t want it to end. Anybody??
It was heartfelt and deeply moving the way these two were connected. A lot happened to these two and I was on the edge of my seat. I also wanted to throw my kindle across the room a few times. All I’m going to say is you better have a box of tissue for this one. It broke my heart! The author really pulled me into the story and made me feel it deeply. Good job! 👍
This was a NETGALLEY gift and all opinions are my own.
It was heartfelt and deeply moving the way these two were connected. A lot happened to these two and I was on the edge of my seat. I also wanted to throw my kindle across the room a few times. All I’m going to say is you better have a box of tissue for this one. It broke my heart! The author really pulled me into the story and made me feel it deeply. Good job! 👍
This was a NETGALLEY gift and all opinions are my own.
March 13, 2020
This is the heartbreaking and beautiful story about Jake and Leila. Their struggles through growing up. Family, love, heartbreak and the journey of life. It touches your heartstrings and will make you cry buckets if you are like me. It is perfect for romance fans. The perfect get away book. It is a little bit of a slow burner. Which was why I gave it four and not five stars. But it is beautiful and moving and one everyone should read.
July 15, 2021
Here I am.. on a train to Edinburgh… absolutely weeping. I have received some dodgy looks but I’ll take it. I absolutely adored the story of Jake and Leila.. classic friends to lovers but wow I loved it. I want their love, because it’s just so nice. I’m being all soppy but that’s how I get when I read books like this. I only marked it lower because there’s a lot of apologising back and forth which I found a tad irritating. But highly recommend, giving me all the feels.
April 21, 2020
5 stars all the way. This book was everything I didn't think I needed until I read it. The book blurb only slightly touches on just how much this book will move you in ways you didn't know it could. The story of Jake and Leila goes beyond that of a typical angsty romance. It's raw, rough around the edges, complicated.
It was a beautifully written story that gave me all the feels. It started at the beginning of Jake and Leila's ever changing love story, the day Jake first met Leila when she was sitting in her dad's car. Characters had great depth and I felt everything they felt. My emotions were all over the place with this book...sad, happy, tearful, annoyed, broken, moved. The authors descriptions were vivid and beautiful. A couple examples: when describing the rainbow charm which completely and utterly broke me. I had just miscarried myself so it's safe to say this book brought me to tears several times throughout. Also, in describing Leila as "she barges through the doorway onto the sunny path. As she turns to face him, the sunlight catches her silvery blonde hair and set it on fire." Amazing description right there in how Jake describes Leila! As much as she frustrates him, her feistiness makes him love her more.
As Leila discusses each charm to the woman who found it, you get to go on her journey with her. The ending yet again brought me to tears. When Jake was rushing to get back to Leila, in that moment I just knew. As heart-breaking the ending was, it felt complete when Leila got to meet the woman who found her charm bracelet. In that moment, I think Leila knew she found a new friend for life and new hope for the next chapter in her life. This is my first book by this author and I cannot wait to engross myself in her future novels.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Collins UK, One More Chapter for an ARC of this novel to read and review. All opinions are my own. This book releases on Aug 21 2020.
There are triggers: miscarriage, child abuse, domestic abuse, abandonment.
It was a beautifully written story that gave me all the feels. It started at the beginning of Jake and Leila's ever changing love story, the day Jake first met Leila when she was sitting in her dad's car. Characters had great depth and I felt everything they felt. My emotions were all over the place with this book...sad, happy, tearful, annoyed, broken, moved. The authors descriptions were vivid and beautiful. A couple examples: when describing the rainbow charm which completely and utterly broke me. I had just miscarried myself so it's safe to say this book brought me to tears several times throughout. Also, in describing Leila as "she barges through the doorway onto the sunny path. As she turns to face him, the sunlight catches her silvery blonde hair and set it on fire." Amazing description right there in how Jake describes Leila! As much as she frustrates him, her feistiness makes him love her more.
As Leila discusses each charm to the woman who found it, you get to go on her journey with her. The ending yet again brought me to tears. When Jake was rushing to get back to Leila, in that moment I just knew. As heart-breaking the ending was, it felt complete when Leila got to meet the woman who found her charm bracelet. In that moment, I think Leila knew she found a new friend for life and new hope for the next chapter in her life. This is my first book by this author and I cannot wait to engross myself in her future novels.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Collins UK, One More Chapter for an ARC of this novel to read and review. All opinions are my own. This book releases on Aug 21 2020.
There are triggers: miscarriage, child abuse, domestic abuse, abandonment.
January 29, 2024
I write very few reviews because my opinion rarely matters. I still believe that, but because I can't concentrate on the next book at the moment, I have decided to get rid of my frustration so that I can put this story behind me. If you don't like people ranting, just continue to the next review please!
It has been a long time since I have read a book in which the main character evoked so many negative feelings in me. Leila is short-sighted, selfish, navel-gazing, overflowing with self-complaint... This book is so frustrating! How can such a disgusting creature win over a nice boy in such a way that he continues to believe in her? Why should you try to become a balanced, fair, open-minded, ... ...girl/woman when such a vile excuse for a human being walks away with one of the most adorable guys? AAARCH!!!!!
At the wedding scene in France, Jake finally says: "I've had it"? Really? Already? Boy, I've had it with her for "years", but kept reading because you're such a beautiful person...
Leila does nothing but push Jake away and then wallow in self-pity when she gets no attention. Why does she continue to think she can humiliate him unabashedly, insult him or hurt him without any consequences for her? Even in her twenties, she hasn't grown up! For example the text message after the kiss, she clearly tells him to stop hoping and to walk away, only to start moaning that she doesn't get any more postcards. Or what about all of which she says in France, only to be genuinely surprised the next day that he has already left? WTF!?? And to top it all off, when she finally thinks she has driven him too far this time, only then is she willing to run to him to apologise. In other words, she knew very well that she was not treating him correctly, but as long as he continued to believe in her, she could afford to treat him disrespectfully, and being as self-centred as she is, she just did.
This story had everything in it to become one of the books of the year for me, but Leila was so frustrating that I quote the story with 3 stars, all due to Jake's beautiful character, the way the characters are worked out and the construction of the story.
It has been a long time since I have read a book in which the main character evoked so many negative feelings in me. Leila is short-sighted, selfish, navel-gazing, overflowing with self-complaint... This book is so frustrating! How can such a disgusting creature win over a nice boy in such a way that he continues to believe in her? Why should you try to become a balanced, fair, open-minded, ... ...girl/woman when such a vile excuse for a human being walks away with one of the most adorable guys? AAARCH!!!!!
At the wedding scene in France, Jake finally says: "I've had it"? Really? Already? Boy, I've had it with her for "years", but kept reading because you're such a beautiful person...
Leila does nothing but push Jake away and then wallow in self-pity when she gets no attention. Why does she continue to think she can humiliate him unabashedly, insult him or hurt him without any consequences for her? Even in her twenties, she hasn't grown up! For example the text message after the kiss, she clearly tells him to stop hoping and to walk away, only to start moaning that she doesn't get any more postcards. Or what about all of which she says in France, only to be genuinely surprised the next day that he has already left? WTF!?? And to top it all off, when she finally thinks she has driven him too far this time, only then is she willing to run to him to apologise. In other words, she knew very well that she was not treating him correctly, but as long as he continued to believe in her, she could afford to treat him disrespectfully, and being as self-centred as she is, she just did.
This story had everything in it to become one of the books of the year for me, but Leila was so frustrating that I quote the story with 3 stars, all due to Jake's beautiful character, the way the characters are worked out and the construction of the story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 22, 2020
https://www.jerasjamboree.co.uk/roman...
Sunshine, laughter, storm clouds, tears. So many different emotions …
Jake snuck into my heart from the beginning. I’ve loved watching him grow and develop over time. His childhood is traumatic and it is those experiences that motivate him to follow the path he does. In fact, I felt so proud of him! I understood what motivated Leila and I enjoyed her introspection but I have to be honest, there are moments when I didn’t like her. Jake understands her and despite not being around all the time, is a constant when life turns upside down.
The charms all have meaning and are a way to show Leila that she’s loved. Each chapter is focused on the special events linked to the charm and Jake is a part of all of them.
Meeting because of family circumstances when they were young and Jake’s absences means this story’s romantic focus isn’t ‘will they or won’t they’ but for me it was ‘when is the time going to be right.’ I loved the sparks that flew off these two! It was so easy to identify with them both and their experiences became mine. I did guess where we were heading and braced myself … but I still fell apart. That final search undone me totally. In amongst those feelings I was surprised to find a glimmer of hope.
Life unreels in all its multicoloured hues in The Last Charm. It’s such an emotive story. From the first contact between Leila and Jake in their early teens in 2001 and across the years I became a part of their families and their love for each other. Set in my home county, I know that when I visit these places my thoughts will turn to Leila and Jake. Their love story has such a powerful emotional pull I just know I will see them and relive their experiences. Highly recommended.
Sunshine, laughter, storm clouds, tears. So many different emotions …
Jake snuck into my heart from the beginning. I’ve loved watching him grow and develop over time. His childhood is traumatic and it is those experiences that motivate him to follow the path he does. In fact, I felt so proud of him! I understood what motivated Leila and I enjoyed her introspection but I have to be honest, there are moments when I didn’t like her. Jake understands her and despite not being around all the time, is a constant when life turns upside down.
The charms all have meaning and are a way to show Leila that she’s loved. Each chapter is focused on the special events linked to the charm and Jake is a part of all of them.
Meeting because of family circumstances when they were young and Jake’s absences means this story’s romantic focus isn’t ‘will they or won’t they’ but for me it was ‘when is the time going to be right.’ I loved the sparks that flew off these two! It was so easy to identify with them both and their experiences became mine. I did guess where we were heading and braced myself … but I still fell apart. That final search undone me totally. In amongst those feelings I was surprised to find a glimmer of hope.
Life unreels in all its multicoloured hues in The Last Charm. It’s such an emotive story. From the first contact between Leila and Jake in their early teens in 2001 and across the years I became a part of their families and their love for each other. Set in my home county, I know that when I visit these places my thoughts will turn to Leila and Jake. Their love story has such a powerful emotional pull I just know I will see them and relive their experiences. Highly recommended.
September 23, 2020
The Last Charm is one of my favourite romance stories of 2020. It is heart-warming, emotional and memorable: the kind of read that will have you thinking about Leila and Jake for a long time afterwards.
The story surrounds Leila’s charm bracelet, which was given to her by her mother prior to leaving Leila and her father. On the heart is a single charm. By the time Leila loses the bracelet years later, it is full of unique and beautiful charms. Each charm represents a special time in the romance between Leila and Jake: a story she has to tell the stranger who has found the bracelet in order to have it returned. The story is told in a series of memories starting when Leila is 13 until she is 30.
I respect that this romance does not happen immediately. Both Jake and Leila have a dysfunctional parent which impacts their identities and self-respect. As a result, each of them has personal growth to experience before they can commit to one another. These issues are presented with impact, and sensitivity.
I absolutely love the theme of the book for its originality and sentimentality. I appreciated learning about the story behind each of the charms. These characters are well developed and likeable. In summary, I found the story to be very engaging and I had a hard time putting it down.
I listened to the audiobook version which was narrated by Sarah Lambie who does a fantastic job as bringing Leila’s voice to the story. I found her voice to be youthful, sweet and joyous in all the right places. Her articulation and cadence made this book a joy to read. If you are a fan of audiobooks, I would definitely recommend this version of the book which enhances an already wonderful story.
Thanks to Netgalley, HarperCollins Audio UK and One More Chapter for the ARC of this book in exchange for the honest review provided here.
The story surrounds Leila’s charm bracelet, which was given to her by her mother prior to leaving Leila and her father. On the heart is a single charm. By the time Leila loses the bracelet years later, it is full of unique and beautiful charms. Each charm represents a special time in the romance between Leila and Jake: a story she has to tell the stranger who has found the bracelet in order to have it returned. The story is told in a series of memories starting when Leila is 13 until she is 30.
I respect that this romance does not happen immediately. Both Jake and Leila have a dysfunctional parent which impacts their identities and self-respect. As a result, each of them has personal growth to experience before they can commit to one another. These issues are presented with impact, and sensitivity.
I absolutely love the theme of the book for its originality and sentimentality. I appreciated learning about the story behind each of the charms. These characters are well developed and likeable. In summary, I found the story to be very engaging and I had a hard time putting it down.
I listened to the audiobook version which was narrated by Sarah Lambie who does a fantastic job as bringing Leila’s voice to the story. I found her voice to be youthful, sweet and joyous in all the right places. Her articulation and cadence made this book a joy to read. If you are a fan of audiobooks, I would definitely recommend this version of the book which enhances an already wonderful story.
Thanks to Netgalley, HarperCollins Audio UK and One More Chapter for the ARC of this book in exchange for the honest review provided here.
June 11, 2020
This ARC from NetGalley and the publisher was a heartwarming story about young love over a span of about 15 years. A charm bracelet is involved and it made me dig out my charm bracelet to remember all of the stories behind each of my charms. I actually have 2 silver charm bracelets. My earliest charm dated back to when I was 15 which was back in 1978. Then what followed over the years was a Sweet 16 charm, a car, a dog, girl and boy charms, springer spaniel charm, shopping charm, baseball, gymnastics and on and on. The last one I got was a St Martin charm which would’ve been 5 years ago when we went there. Wow! The memories .... This was a fun book! I really enjoyed it. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this early release in exchange for my honest review.
April 5, 2020
I do love a romance! These two meet very young and start out as friends, meeting up every few years but always supporting each other through troubled times. But love grows, and so does Leila's collection of charms, each one representing a memory of special times. The day she loses her charm bracelet on the beach is the day she loses so much more. An emotional ride, well worth the read.
December 16, 2020
I finished this book only because I couldn’t bear to not know what became of Jake, who oozed loyalty and charm.
But, here’s the thing...there is so much love, grace, patience and forgiveness for a character I found insufferable. I should know better by now that I do not do well with characters I passionately dislike.
But, here’s the thing...there is so much love, grace, patience and forgiveness for a character I found insufferable. I should know better by now that I do not do well with characters I passionately dislike.
May 28, 2021
Absolutely loved this!!!
June 1, 2021
A quick easy read that towards the end easily breaks your heart. Jake is a standout character who is not easily forgotten. 5 Stars
October 18, 2020
TW: underage drinking, alcoholism, parental abuse (physical and mental), miscarriage, death of a loved one
The Last Charm is a novel that spans years, showing a relationship that grows from a burgeoning friendship when the characters are children, to an intense and deep love as adults. It's a journey that starts with a simple charm bracelet, but the story of those charms is one filled with abuse, misunderstandings, family drama, death, forgiveness, and ultimately, hope.
Okay, so...I've honestly been debating whether to write this review or not because, for me, the reason I ended up not enjoying it as much as I thought I would is deeply personal. Now, for many this scene wouldn't affect them so much that they were turned off reading. But for me, this subject is something I actively avoid in books, and go out of my way to look up trigger warnings about.
I read this for a book club and honestly, if I hadn't, I probably would have stopped reading. And that's not because the book wasn't good. I genuinely enjoyed the beginning. The writing is brilliant, the emotions are clear and compelling. I loved seeing the characters growing from children into young adults. I'll admit Leila takes some getting used to. She's a very caustic character and some of things she says to Jake are absolutely vile. I sometimes struggled to understand why he cared so much about her, enough that he kept coming back for more abuse.
But I could handle that.
What I could not handle was the scene where Leila becomes accidentally pregnant. She's deciding whether to keep the baby or not, when she loses it.
And that's where the book lost its charm for me because I cannot enjoy books with miscarriage in them. Even if it's dealt with in a sensitive manner, which this was, I just don't like reading about it. This is also why I'm a deep believer in books carrying trigger warnings because if I'd have known I would have steered well clear.
So, there you have it. The Last Charm is a well-written drama (not a romance imo), coming-of-age type novel but if you're triggered by certain subjects (like me) you're best looking into some reviews because this book has a lot of issues that are dealt and spoken about.
The Last Charm is a novel that spans years, showing a relationship that grows from a burgeoning friendship when the characters are children, to an intense and deep love as adults. It's a journey that starts with a simple charm bracelet, but the story of those charms is one filled with abuse, misunderstandings, family drama, death, forgiveness, and ultimately, hope.
Okay, so...I've honestly been debating whether to write this review or not because, for me, the reason I ended up not enjoying it as much as I thought I would is deeply personal. Now, for many this scene wouldn't affect them so much that they were turned off reading. But for me, this subject is something I actively avoid in books, and go out of my way to look up trigger warnings about.
I read this for a book club and honestly, if I hadn't, I probably would have stopped reading. And that's not because the book wasn't good. I genuinely enjoyed the beginning. The writing is brilliant, the emotions are clear and compelling. I loved seeing the characters growing from children into young adults. I'll admit Leila takes some getting used to. She's a very caustic character and some of things she says to Jake are absolutely vile. I sometimes struggled to understand why he cared so much about her, enough that he kept coming back for more abuse.
But I could handle that.
What I could not handle was the scene where Leila becomes accidentally pregnant. She's deciding whether to keep the baby or not, when she loses it.
And that's where the book lost its charm for me because I cannot enjoy books with miscarriage in them. Even if it's dealt with in a sensitive manner, which this was, I just don't like reading about it. This is also why I'm a deep believer in books carrying trigger warnings because if I'd have known I would have steered well clear.
So, there you have it. The Last Charm is a well-written drama (not a romance imo), coming-of-age type novel but if you're triggered by certain subjects (like me) you're best looking into some reviews because this book has a lot of issues that are dealt and spoken about.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 7, 2020
The last Charm by Ella Allbright is a beautifully, moving story about first love between Leila and Jake.
Leila’s mother left home after splitting with her dad. But before she left, she gave Leila a charm bracelet and every year Leila believes that her mother sends her charms to her each year with a little story behind each one.
Jake a few years older than Leila moves in a house three doors down which used to be Leila’s old house. Staying in her old room. Where Leila has painted doors on her walls to magical kingdoms. Jake is amazed by this. They soon become friends, but they have their ups and downs and their own lives with their families are not always rosy throughout the years. But, against all odds they put their differences aside and they become a couple.
Thank you, Harper Collins, one more chapter and the author for a copy of this book for an honest review. I loved the premise of this story and the stories behind each individual charm. I thought they were lovely. I was just a bit annoyed with Leila what ever Jake did for her she still gave him sometimes a hard time. 4 stars from me.
Leila’s mother left home after splitting with her dad. But before she left, she gave Leila a charm bracelet and every year Leila believes that her mother sends her charms to her each year with a little story behind each one.
Jake a few years older than Leila moves in a house three doors down which used to be Leila’s old house. Staying in her old room. Where Leila has painted doors on her walls to magical kingdoms. Jake is amazed by this. They soon become friends, but they have their ups and downs and their own lives with their families are not always rosy throughout the years. But, against all odds they put their differences aside and they become a couple.
Thank you, Harper Collins, one more chapter and the author for a copy of this book for an honest review. I loved the premise of this story and the stories behind each individual charm. I thought they were lovely. I was just a bit annoyed with Leila what ever Jake did for her she still gave him sometimes a hard time. 4 stars from me.
January 4, 2023
I absolutely adored this book from the beginning. Made up of many episodes, this book details the story between Leila and Jake, represented by the charm bracelet that was left to Leila by her mother. It is an emotional story that had me balling like a baby by the end, but that still didn’t stop me from falling in love with the two protagonists.
This book has really lengthy chapters, but it certainly didn’t feel like it. Each chapter is the story behind the charm on Leila’s bracelet. It is a journey of her life milestones and the charms each represent something significant in Leila’s life. Sometimes the story switches to Jake’s perspective and I loved how Allbright does this. It made me feel more connected to Jake’s character, rather than just accepting Leila’s interpretation of events.
From the beginning, Allbright tinges the narrative with sadness and also hope. There is hope for the future and taking control of your destiny and I think this is completely symbolised by Leila’s bracelet. I loved how the story follows the two characters from when they are teenagers to adulthood and from the beginning, I thought that the writer’s characterisation was vivid and realistic. From scenes in the classroom studying GCSE English (a personal favourite!), to becoming increasingly independent, readers grow with Leila and Jake. Leila’s experiences are relatable to Allbright’s readers and I think this is what made this story so appealing.
Leila and Jake’s relationship is never constant: this book covers many years and there are often months of separation between the two before their paths cross again. I was obsessed with seeing how their relationship alters at every chapter and whether the truth would ever be revealed about the charms Leila frequently receives. Indeed, Leila and Jake’s connection receives so many set-backs that I did wonder if there would ever be a happy ever after for this couple.
This was an absorbing story that felt so well-written and was very enjoyable. I felt like I was growing up with Leila and revisiting some of my own past memories from reading this novel. I love that this is Allbright’s debut book and am excited to see what is next for this author.
With thanks to One More Chapter, Harper Collins and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book has really lengthy chapters, but it certainly didn’t feel like it. Each chapter is the story behind the charm on Leila’s bracelet. It is a journey of her life milestones and the charms each represent something significant in Leila’s life. Sometimes the story switches to Jake’s perspective and I loved how Allbright does this. It made me feel more connected to Jake’s character, rather than just accepting Leila’s interpretation of events.
From the beginning, Allbright tinges the narrative with sadness and also hope. There is hope for the future and taking control of your destiny and I think this is completely symbolised by Leila’s bracelet. I loved how the story follows the two characters from when they are teenagers to adulthood and from the beginning, I thought that the writer’s characterisation was vivid and realistic. From scenes in the classroom studying GCSE English (a personal favourite!), to becoming increasingly independent, readers grow with Leila and Jake. Leila’s experiences are relatable to Allbright’s readers and I think this is what made this story so appealing.
Leila and Jake’s relationship is never constant: this book covers many years and there are often months of separation between the two before their paths cross again. I was obsessed with seeing how their relationship alters at every chapter and whether the truth would ever be revealed about the charms Leila frequently receives. Indeed, Leila and Jake’s connection receives so many set-backs that I did wonder if there would ever be a happy ever after for this couple.
This was an absorbing story that felt so well-written and was very enjoyable. I felt like I was growing up with Leila and revisiting some of my own past memories from reading this novel. I love that this is Allbright’s debut book and am excited to see what is next for this author.
With thanks to One More Chapter, Harper Collins and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 11, 2020
This review is based on an ARC of The Charm Bracelet which I received courtesy of NetGalley and the Publisher (HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter).
If you like books told over longer periods of time, books where you get to watch the characters grow, mature, blossom, this book is for you. If you like an achingly good slow burn, this book is for you. If you like stories where each chapter is the story of, or represents, a little memento (like in Fragments of the Lost ), this book is for you. If you, like me, love you some BritFic (is that a genre? I'm coining it), this book is for you.
I was more than a little pleasantly surprised by The Charm Bracelet. When it comes to ChickLit/Women's Fiction, I tend to stick to Sophie Kinsella novels. However, I was immediately enrapt in this novel, and the more I read, the more I fell in love. I'm not usually crazy for slow-burn stories, but holy cow was the pacing fantastic! By the end I was ugly crying, but also smiling because it was such a darn happy-sad, bittersweet, touching, incredible finale!
The downside is that I felt that the actual writing was a little lacking. Without taglines you wouldn't know who was speaking, and a lot of times I had to reread bits because I got confused as to who said what. The individual voices weren't very strong. I also, in hindsight, didn't like Jake's point of view. While I was reading, it was okay, but after I finished the book his perspective seemed moot and didn't make sense why it should even have been there.
My biggest problem with the story: I hated Leila, the main character. In my opinion, Jake was too good for her, she was selfish (which was pointed out, so the author is at least aware of Leila's flaws), flighty, moody, and incredibly frustrating to read about. It was hard to want to root for her happiness when I felt that she was already getting what she deserved. That being said, this annoyance lends itself to my favorite part about the book: that I was brought to tears, ugly crying, and wishing for only the best for the couple. I wanted the characters to be together and to be happy despite my not liking the main character. This attests to Allbright's masterful storytelling, that she could suck me in and make me want Leila (the ungrateful brat) to be happy with someone she doesn't deserve.
The Charm Bracelet is a standout book in its genre! I'm so happy to have read it, and I know that it is a story that will stick with me for a long time. I hope Ella Allbright has more novels in store, because I will definitely be in line to read more from her!
Around the Year in 52 Books Reading Challenge: A book related to time
If you like books told over longer periods of time, books where you get to watch the characters grow, mature, blossom, this book is for you. If you like an achingly good slow burn, this book is for you. If you like stories where each chapter is the story of, or represents, a little memento (like in Fragments of the Lost ), this book is for you. If you, like me, love you some BritFic (is that a genre? I'm coining it), this book is for you.
I was more than a little pleasantly surprised by The Charm Bracelet. When it comes to ChickLit/Women's Fiction, I tend to stick to Sophie Kinsella novels. However, I was immediately enrapt in this novel, and the more I read, the more I fell in love. I'm not usually crazy for slow-burn stories, but holy cow was the pacing fantastic! By the end I was ugly crying, but also smiling because it was such a darn happy-sad, bittersweet, touching, incredible finale!
The downside is that I felt that the actual writing was a little lacking. Without taglines you wouldn't know who was speaking, and a lot of times I had to reread bits because I got confused as to who said what. The individual voices weren't very strong. I also, in hindsight, didn't like Jake's point of view. While I was reading, it was okay, but after I finished the book his perspective seemed moot and didn't make sense why it should even have been there.
My biggest problem with the story: I hated Leila, the main character. In my opinion, Jake was too good for her, she was selfish (which was pointed out, so the author is at least aware of Leila's flaws), flighty, moody, and incredibly frustrating to read about. It was hard to want to root for her happiness when I felt that she was already getting what she deserved. That being said, this annoyance lends itself to my favorite part about the book: that I was brought to tears, ugly crying, and wishing for only the best for the couple. I wanted the characters to be together and to be happy despite my not liking the main character. This attests to Allbright's masterful storytelling, that she could suck me in and make me want Leila (the ungrateful brat) to be happy with someone she doesn't deserve.
The Charm Bracelet is a standout book in its genre! I'm so happy to have read it, and I know that it is a story that will stick with me for a long time. I hope Ella Allbright has more novels in store, because I will definitely be in line to read more from her!
Around the Year in 52 Books Reading Challenge: A book related to time
July 24, 2020
I hate to give this 2 stars, but i couldn’t even finish it... and that is unlike me. And I tried. I got over half way through and decided I wasn’t even invested enough to read on to see what happens. Other reviews are really enjoying this book, so maybe it’s just me? I never really liked the main character. I thought from the description and prologue I would like the book, but it was so slow. I won’t go into anymore details as not to give anything away.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an arc in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an arc in exchange for an honest review.
July 27, 2020
I loved the premise but the journey was exhausting and then it just broke my damn heart! Have you ever read a story where you didn't really care and yet cared too much all at the same time? That was this one for me!
Leila and Jake were so back and forth that I kind of got sick of it. They were friends I guess but it always felt so aggressive and not in a healthy way.
The story did have its good moments but the ones I didn't enjoy far outweighed any of them. It's weird to feel so strongly about the ending despite not caring about the characters. So the author did something right.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy in exchange for honest review.
Leila and Jake were so back and forth that I kind of got sick of it. They were friends I guess but it always felt so aggressive and not in a healthy way.
The story did have its good moments but the ones I didn't enjoy far outweighed any of them. It's weird to feel so strongly about the ending despite not caring about the characters. So the author did something right.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy in exchange for honest review.
August 24, 2020
I would firstly like to thank One More Chapter for my gifted digital copy, and the truly wonderful readalong that accompanied this story. We had challenges, discussions and endless chats about everything #TheLastCharm
The story opens with an email written by Leila asking for her lost charm bracelet back.
"I need the bracelet back, and to convince you it’s mine I’m going to tell you all about the precious memories that come with those special charms."
This leads us beautifully into a dual narrative storyline, told from the perspectives of Leila and Jake. It spans 15 years from their first meeting in Leila's dad's van. To the present day where the charm bracelet that has been a constant in both their lives has been lost.
The Last Charm gave me One Day by David Nicholls vibes. Here we dip into the characters lives at different times in their lives, when Leila acquires a new charm and we get to learn the story and meaning behind it.
From the synopsis I thought I was going to get your average run of the mill story. Where boy meets girl, they fall in love, something goes wrong then they reconnect. Predictable but nice. However, The Last Charm was much more than this. This story went deeper, it explored themes and issues that really pulled me in and tugged at my heart strings.
I totally fell in love with Jake, and it bloody infuriated me that Leila could not see what was in front of her face. She really needed a shake that girl did. This was really my only negative about the story, but, in a way I can kind of understand why Leila was so blind.
The secondary characters in The Last Charm really worked well to build Leila and Jakes story. I had a few tears over Grandpa Ray, what a kind soul and his kindness towards Jake was beautiful.
The Last Charm will have you smiling, crying and give you all the feels. This is one of those books that will surprise you. Oh and it'll make you want to book a holiday to check out Durdle Door 😍
The story opens with an email written by Leila asking for her lost charm bracelet back.
"I need the bracelet back, and to convince you it’s mine I’m going to tell you all about the precious memories that come with those special charms."
This leads us beautifully into a dual narrative storyline, told from the perspectives of Leila and Jake. It spans 15 years from their first meeting in Leila's dad's van. To the present day where the charm bracelet that has been a constant in both their lives has been lost.
The Last Charm gave me One Day by David Nicholls vibes. Here we dip into the characters lives at different times in their lives, when Leila acquires a new charm and we get to learn the story and meaning behind it.
From the synopsis I thought I was going to get your average run of the mill story. Where boy meets girl, they fall in love, something goes wrong then they reconnect. Predictable but nice. However, The Last Charm was much more than this. This story went deeper, it explored themes and issues that really pulled me in and tugged at my heart strings.
I totally fell in love with Jake, and it bloody infuriated me that Leila could not see what was in front of her face. She really needed a shake that girl did. This was really my only negative about the story, but, in a way I can kind of understand why Leila was so blind.
The secondary characters in The Last Charm really worked well to build Leila and Jakes story. I had a few tears over Grandpa Ray, what a kind soul and his kindness towards Jake was beautiful.
The Last Charm will have you smiling, crying and give you all the feels. This is one of those books that will surprise you. Oh and it'll make you want to book a holiday to check out Durdle Door 😍
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