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One Night With You
It’s his first night in London. And her last…
Ruby’s leaving London. She’s not running away from her ex per se, but an exciting opportunity in a new city has landed at the perfect time.
Nic is moving to London. After a bad break-up, he’s excited to see where big-city life could take him.
When a chance meeting throws the pair of them together for just one night, it’s clear that this could be the start of something special. But there’s one problem: she’s leaving, and he’s just arriving. So, after tonight, they’ll never see each other again . . . will they?
From the international bestseller comes a story of two strangers, two cities, and one night that changes everything.
Ruby’s leaving London. She’s not running away from her ex per se, but an exciting opportunity in a new city has landed at the perfect time.
Nic is moving to London. After a bad break-up, he’s excited to see where big-city life could take him.
When a chance meeting throws the pair of them together for just one night, it’s clear that this could be the start of something special. But there’s one problem: she’s leaving, and he’s just arriving. So, after tonight, they’ll never see each other again . . . will they?
From the international bestseller comes a story of two strangers, two cities, and one night that changes everything.
400 pages, Paperback
Published August 9, 2022
107 people are currently reading
2101 people want to read
About the author
Laura Jane Williams
27 books690 followersLaura Jane Williams (she/her) is known as the queen of the meet-cute. She is the author of six rom-coms, as well as the forthcoming Lovestruck (June 2023). She is also the author of three works of non-fiction.
The rights to Laura's international bestseller Our Stop have been sold for television, and her books have been translated into languages all over the world. She loves romance, being a parent, and lifting very heavy weights.
Find out more about Laura on www.laurajaneauthor.com
The rights to Laura's international bestseller Our Stop have been sold for television, and her books have been translated into languages all over the world. She loves romance, being a parent, and lifting very heavy weights.
Find out more about Laura on www.laurajaneauthor.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 328 reviews
March 6, 2022
What a heartfelt story about finding THE ONE in the right place at the wrong time!
The night before Ruby leaves London, she meets Nic who is having his first day in London! They have only one night to share and then they are going to part their ways! Flirty Ruby and shy, nerdy Nic’s attraction is palpable! But they’re so adamant to move on their lives and remember this special night as their unforgettable one night stand! You may guess what will happen next! Of course what happens in one night stay in one night! Faith has other plans for them!
Thoughts:
I was planning three stars because after the strong and entertaining romcom opening, the book lost its charm and I got agitated with Ruby a little bit. She earned ten slap points from me to be so stubborn and feel so sorry for Nick! But I also enjoyed JP’s story line and his journey to find his love of his life! So I added extra half stars! That parts were brilliant!
The characters’ inner journeys, their self discoveries were well written.
So I’m rounding up 3.5 stars to 4 it happened one night stars!
Special thanks to NetGalley and Avon Books UK for sharing this digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest thoughts.
The night before Ruby leaves London, she meets Nic who is having his first day in London! They have only one night to share and then they are going to part their ways! Flirty Ruby and shy, nerdy Nic’s attraction is palpable! But they’re so adamant to move on their lives and remember this special night as their unforgettable one night stand! You may guess what will happen next! Of course what happens in one night stay in one night! Faith has other plans for them!
Thoughts:
I was planning three stars because after the strong and entertaining romcom opening, the book lost its charm and I got agitated with Ruby a little bit. She earned ten slap points from me to be so stubborn and feel so sorry for Nick! But I also enjoyed JP’s story line and his journey to find his love of his life! So I added extra half stars! That parts were brilliant!
The characters’ inner journeys, their self discoveries were well written.
So I’m rounding up 3.5 stars to 4 it happened one night stars!
Special thanks to NetGalley and Avon Books UK for sharing this digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest thoughts.
March 4, 2022
Let me start with the fact that someone had to die in this to make it interesting. The story was messy, as the book proceeds the story loses focus from the core plot. It gets mixed up with other storylines and tropes.
Ruby is self conceited character, which I could not relate to. Plus her gang constantly tries to scam people. Red flag!! Could not sympathize. I did not warm up to her throughout the book. Nic is a and good hearted fellow. His character had so much potential. I would have liked to see momentary flaws but he's too perfect. Plus that whole horny at first sight, didn't resonate with me. Although, the connection between the two is alright, but it comes off as superficial. The dialogue exchanges between them is gag-worthy; it's fake and completely unrealistic. I could not help but cringe.. Ever thought of eating a whole jar of honey in one bite? Yeah, it's like that.
The author tries to make the story emotional towards the second half of the book, which was a decent read compared to the first half. But I could not invest myself into it by then. The ending was alright but predictable. The writing holds a lot of potential, if the dialogues get better. There is some good humor in this at times, I won't deny that which does nothing for the book as a whole (for me). There are some genuine cute moments as well, when the characters actually talk realistically, which was very rare to see in this book.
Overall, it was a let down, and I did try hard to like this but it is what it is. If you want an overly sweet story with no thinking involved, this is for you.
eARC provided by Netgalley for an honest review.
Ruby is self conceited character, which I could not relate to. Plus her gang constantly tries to scam people. Red flag!! Could not sympathize. I did not warm up to her throughout the book. Nic is a and good hearted fellow. His character had so much potential. I would have liked to see momentary flaws but he's too perfect. Plus that whole horny at first sight, didn't resonate with me. Although, the connection between the two is alright, but it comes off as superficial. The dialogue exchanges between them is gag-worthy; it's fake and completely unrealistic. I could not help but cringe.. Ever thought of eating a whole jar of honey in one bite? Yeah, it's like that.
The author tries to make the story emotional towards the second half of the book, which was a decent read compared to the first half. But I could not invest myself into it by then. The ending was alright but predictable. The writing holds a lot of potential, if the dialogues get better. There is some good humor in this at times, I won't deny that which does nothing for the book as a whole (for me). There are some genuine cute moments as well, when the characters actually talk realistically, which was very rare to see in this book.
Overall, it was a let down, and I did try hard to like this but it is what it is. If you want an overly sweet story with no thinking involved, this is for you.
eARC provided by Netgalley for an honest review.
June 11, 2022
It’s his first night in London. And her last…
Ruby is chasing a great opportunity and leaving London. Nic is moving to London after a breakup. He is hopeful about his fresh start. They have a one-night stand, and it feels as if this could lead to something, but Ruby is moving and Nic has just arrived.
This was an enjoyable-while-I-read-it book but I am not sure that I will remember it in the future. This book was lacking a little pizzazz/oomph that I was hoping for. I really didn't feel a connection to any of the characters.
Overall, an enjoyable book. There are many that enjoyed this book more than I did so please read their reviews as well.
Thank you to Avon Books UK, Avon and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
Ruby is chasing a great opportunity and leaving London. Nic is moving to London after a breakup. He is hopeful about his fresh start. They have a one-night stand, and it feels as if this could lead to something, but Ruby is moving and Nic has just arrived.
This was an enjoyable-while-I-read-it book but I am not sure that I will remember it in the future. This book was lacking a little pizzazz/oomph that I was hoping for. I really didn't feel a connection to any of the characters.
Overall, an enjoyable book. There are many that enjoyed this book more than I did so please read their reviews as well.
Thank you to Avon Books UK, Avon and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
January 29, 2023
3.25 ⭐
Featuring ~ dual POV, miscarriage , unplanned pregnancy, minimal steamage
When Ruby and Nic meet on her last day and his first day in London they agree to have one night together. The problem is that their one night left them both wanting more since their attraction was intense and nothing they've ever experienced before. It just isn't the right time for them as Ruby embarks on working on the her masters degree in film making. Although her film making was a big part of the book, I wasn't overly invested in that part of the story. I wanted more on the romance side.
I love that it's told in both of their POV's and with two narrators. I was pleased with Charlotte Beaumont and Arthur McBain once I got used to their accent. 10 hours and 3 minutes.
Overall, this was fun and sweet at times. I would be interested in reading more books from this author in the future.
*Thanks to HarperCollins UK Audio, Laura Jane Williams and NetGalley for the advance audiobook. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
More reviews here ➡ Heather Adores Books
Featuring ~ dual POV, miscarriage , unplanned pregnancy, minimal steamage
When Ruby and Nic meet on her last day and his first day in London they agree to have one night together. The problem is that their one night left them both wanting more since their attraction was intense and nothing they've ever experienced before. It just isn't the right time for them as Ruby embarks on working on the her masters degree in film making. Although her film making was a big part of the book, I wasn't overly invested in that part of the story. I wanted more on the romance side.
I love that it's told in both of their POV's and with two narrators. I was pleased with Charlotte Beaumont and Arthur McBain once I got used to their accent. 10 hours and 3 minutes.
Overall, this was fun and sweet at times. I would be interested in reading more books from this author in the future.
*Thanks to HarperCollins UK Audio, Laura Jane Williams and NetGalley for the advance audiobook. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
More reviews here ➡ Heather Adores Books
October 2, 2022
The book honestly captured my heart when I initially read the first few pages, but sadly, the middle was a chaotic.
I kept becoming bored because the pace was slow and not much was happening. I thought this book had a lot of needless and way too much talk. I found it difficult to stay interested in what was happening because it was confusing at times and all over the place.
The plot was muddled, and as the book went on, the story lost sight of its main purpose. It is tangled up with various plots and cliches.
There were many characters, and I found it difficult to relate to any of them, particularly Ruby. I wholeheartedly support finding happiness on your own, but she occasionally came across as selfish, much like her friend Candice, and her character didn't sit well with me. Only JP was notable. But at that point, he played a relatively little role.
Nic was idealistically flawless, and I thought that out of all of them, he had the finest character growth, especially after the couple's crucial incident.
Most Both of the major characters didn't appeal to me in a way that made me want them to get together, and I found a lot of their interactions to be implausible. To be honest, neither seemed plausible to me.
But I did enjoyed how the author handled topics like loss, motherhood, pansexuality, and homosexuality because the wording was fairly informal. I also enjoy the friendships they developed along the road, and the subplot of JP looking for his long-lost love was my favorite aspect of this book. I really appreciated JP's moments because he was such a beautiful character.
Unfortunately, since the majority of the book wasn't entirely devoted to that, it felt like quite the letdown given that this novel was supposed to be about two people meeting one fateful evening and determining whether they would become something more than that.
Simply put, I was completely unimpressed by this.
I kept becoming bored because the pace was slow and not much was happening. I thought this book had a lot of needless and way too much talk. I found it difficult to stay interested in what was happening because it was confusing at times and all over the place.
The plot was muddled, and as the book went on, the story lost sight of its main purpose. It is tangled up with various plots and cliches.
There were many characters, and I found it difficult to relate to any of them, particularly Ruby. I wholeheartedly support finding happiness on your own, but she occasionally came across as selfish, much like her friend Candice, and her character didn't sit well with me. Only JP was notable. But at that point, he played a relatively little role.
Nic was idealistically flawless, and I thought that out of all of them, he had the finest character growth, especially after the couple's crucial incident.
Most Both of the major characters didn't appeal to me in a way that made me want them to get together, and I found a lot of their interactions to be implausible. To be honest, neither seemed plausible to me.
But I did enjoyed how the author handled topics like loss, motherhood, pansexuality, and homosexuality because the wording was fairly informal. I also enjoy the friendships they developed along the road, and the subplot of JP looking for his long-lost love was my favorite aspect of this book. I really appreciated JP's moments because he was such a beautiful character.
Unfortunately, since the majority of the book wasn't entirely devoted to that, it felt like quite the letdown given that this novel was supposed to be about two people meeting one fateful evening and determining whether they would become something more than that.
Simply put, I was completely unimpressed by this.
April 20, 2022
Thank you Netgalley and HarperCollins UK Audio for the opportunity to listen to this arc audiobook.
Ruby is leaving London and Nick is moving to London. An epic one night stand and the rest is history.
The start of the story was great, a bit too much insight in unnecessary topics, but overall an enjoyable read.
Ruby is leaving London and Nick is moving to London. An epic one night stand and the rest is history.
The start of the story was great, a bit too much insight in unnecessary topics, but overall an enjoyable read.
March 1, 2022
Tropes: right person wrong time, one night stand, found family.
TW: miscarriage, death.
This book really had me feeling all the emotions - I cried, I laughed and I smiled throughout.
Laura Jane Williams writes vivid, interesting characters that jump of the page. Ruby and Nic's chemistry was off the charts (which was reflected in the steamy scenes - wow)! Their romance was intense and emotional and, as a reader, I truly believed in their connection. A brutally honest right place, wrong time love story. As individual characters, both Ruby and Nic were well developed outside of their romance. They felt like people I would like to know, and I actively was rooting for their success. The side characters were also absolutely brilliant! JP and William were a delight, Harry was the best friend we all want, Ruby's found family of friends were delightful.
Plot wise, this book was fast paced (a contrast that worked well with the slow moving romance). As the two main characters were going through a year of saying yes to new experiences, stuff kept happening to them!! This did keep me on my toes, but towards the end it felt like sometimes the author was cramming in events just to have them in there. Because of this, some of the events lost a bit of their impact.
I do feel the need to mention the one thing I really hated. Throughout, there are mentions of the fact Ruby and her friends were scamming 'foreign students' by getting them to pay above the market value for rent in London. It was barely relevant to the plot and felt really mean spirited. Also not a huge fan of the language used to describe them. No outright racism, but it felt very other-ing.
Overall, I would recommend picking this up if you are looking for a romance-forward chick lit!
Thank you to NetGalley and Avon Books UK for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
TW: miscarriage, death.
This book really had me feeling all the emotions - I cried, I laughed and I smiled throughout.
Laura Jane Williams writes vivid, interesting characters that jump of the page. Ruby and Nic's chemistry was off the charts (which was reflected in the steamy scenes - wow)! Their romance was intense and emotional and, as a reader, I truly believed in their connection. A brutally honest right place, wrong time love story. As individual characters, both Ruby and Nic were well developed outside of their romance. They felt like people I would like to know, and I actively was rooting for their success. The side characters were also absolutely brilliant! JP and William were a delight, Harry was the best friend we all want, Ruby's found family of friends were delightful.
Plot wise, this book was fast paced (a contrast that worked well with the slow moving romance). As the two main characters were going through a year of saying yes to new experiences, stuff kept happening to them!! This did keep me on my toes, but towards the end it felt like sometimes the author was cramming in events just to have them in there. Because of this, some of the events lost a bit of their impact.
I do feel the need to mention the one thing I really hated. Throughout, there are mentions of the fact Ruby and her friends were scamming 'foreign students' by getting them to pay above the market value for rent in London. It was barely relevant to the plot and felt really mean spirited. Also not a huge fan of the language used to describe them. No outright racism, but it felt very other-ing.
Overall, I would recommend picking this up if you are looking for a romance-forward chick lit!
Thank you to NetGalley and Avon Books UK for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
May 5, 2022
I’d like to thank NetGalley for approving me for an ARC of this book. After reading Lucky Escape by Laura Jane Williams last year I was looking forward to seeing if this one was as good.
This was a fun and easy listen that I enjoyed from start to finish. There was humour, banter, love and affection throughout the story as well as a few emotional moments.
We start the story when Ruby and Nic first meet and lets just say you could of burnt yourself on the chemistry between those two! The will they won’t they aspect of the story is at the centre of this slow burn read but what I loved was the alternating chapters from each of our main characters, it gave me better insight into what each of them was thinking and feeling. Most of the time I found myself chucking at their banter and private thoughts about each other.
Whilst this story was about Ruby and Nic and their burning romance, there was a lot more to the story. One of my favourite characters was JP. I loved his story and how he influenced Ruby and encouraged her to open herself up to people. I love it when a secondary character enters a story and ends up stealing the spotlight and JP was a character that shone bright in this story.
Yes this was a fun and entertaining read but I also felt it held a really great message for all it’s readers. Life can be scary at times and we are often faced with some very hard decisions. Sometimes it seems that easiest choice is the right decision and we fall into this trap of not putting ourselves out there for fear of failing because almost doesn’t count.
What Laura Jane Williams depicts brilliantly is that taking that leap of faith or doing something that challenges us helps us to grow as a person and learn from our experiences. By taking that leap of faith we might find new and exciting things about ourselves or we may fall but the point is we tried. If I have taken anything from this story it’s to take the opportunities and to at least try because almost absolutely always counts!
This was a fun and easy listen that I enjoyed from start to finish. There was humour, banter, love and affection throughout the story as well as a few emotional moments.
We start the story when Ruby and Nic first meet and lets just say you could of burnt yourself on the chemistry between those two! The will they won’t they aspect of the story is at the centre of this slow burn read but what I loved was the alternating chapters from each of our main characters, it gave me better insight into what each of them was thinking and feeling. Most of the time I found myself chucking at their banter and private thoughts about each other.
Whilst this story was about Ruby and Nic and their burning romance, there was a lot more to the story. One of my favourite characters was JP. I loved his story and how he influenced Ruby and encouraged her to open herself up to people. I love it when a secondary character enters a story and ends up stealing the spotlight and JP was a character that shone bright in this story.
Yes this was a fun and entertaining read but I also felt it held a really great message for all it’s readers. Life can be scary at times and we are often faced with some very hard decisions. Sometimes it seems that easiest choice is the right decision and we fall into this trap of not putting ourselves out there for fear of failing because almost doesn’t count.
What Laura Jane Williams depicts brilliantly is that taking that leap of faith or doing something that challenges us helps us to grow as a person and learn from our experiences. By taking that leap of faith we might find new and exciting things about ourselves or we may fall but the point is we tried. If I have taken anything from this story it’s to take the opportunities and to at least try because almost absolutely always counts!
May 16, 2022
4.5 ⭐️
Sarcasm and silly are my thing and this book was dripping with it.
The romance was intense, tender and honest. They were vulnerable and interesting. The back and forth that was going on with these two just kept me glued. Nick **sigh** Nick. He’s perfect in an imperfect way that just made him more adorable.
The novel gave me that dreamy, escapable pleasure thing I look for in a book. It wasn’t my perfect ending but it was still good. Summer read for sure.
I chose to listen to this book on audio and loved the Charlotte Beaumont and Arthur McBain as the narrators. They were awesome. I highly recommend listening to this.
Sarcasm and silly are my thing and this book was dripping with it.
The romance was intense, tender and honest. They were vulnerable and interesting. The back and forth that was going on with these two just kept me glued. Nick **sigh** Nick. He’s perfect in an imperfect way that just made him more adorable.
The novel gave me that dreamy, escapable pleasure thing I look for in a book. It wasn’t my perfect ending but it was still good. Summer read for sure.
I chose to listen to this book on audio and loved the Charlotte Beaumont and Arthur McBain as the narrators. They were awesome. I highly recommend listening to this.
May 19, 2022
I'd read a novella by Laura Jane Williams and liked her writing. So I wanted to try a novel by her. Can't say I am disappointed but I'm not blown away either.
The story follows Ruby and Nic. Ruby is leaving London to go to uni in Manchester. Nic has just arrived in London. Fate brings them together on Ruby's last night and Nic's first night in London. Sparks fly but obviously, they cannot have any kind of relationship.
We learn about Ruby's education in film-making. Through the course of her research, she meets JP, a 97-year-old who is looking for his long-lost sweetheart. Will Ruby's amateur documentary be able to bring the two lovebirds together? And how will it all affect Nic and Ruby?
There were a lot of characters and though the narrators tried hard, most of the secondary characters sounded the same. Only JP stood out. But then he had only a minor part.
I also found Nic more interesting in the leading duo but we learn very little about him through the book. We only know that he likes Ruby. He starts out as an introvert and then inexplicably turns into an extrovert.
The middle part stretched quite a bit with all the will-they-won't-they stuff and frankly, I tired of it after a while. The book could have done with some good editing.
The writing was quite breezy and I liked how the author dealt with certain issues like miscarriage, parenthood, pansexuality, and homosexuality. JP's love story touched my heart.
I listened to the audiobook and the narrators, Charlotte Beaumont and Arthur McBain, were excellent.
3 stars.
Thanks to Netgalley, HarperCollinsUK Audio, and Laura Jane Williams for the audio ARC.
The story follows Ruby and Nic. Ruby is leaving London to go to uni in Manchester. Nic has just arrived in London. Fate brings them together on Ruby's last night and Nic's first night in London. Sparks fly but obviously, they cannot have any kind of relationship.
We learn about Ruby's education in film-making. Through the course of her research, she meets JP, a 97-year-old who is looking for his long-lost sweetheart. Will Ruby's amateur documentary be able to bring the two lovebirds together? And how will it all affect Nic and Ruby?
There were a lot of characters and though the narrators tried hard, most of the secondary characters sounded the same. Only JP stood out. But then he had only a minor part.
I also found Nic more interesting in the leading duo but we learn very little about him through the book. We only know that he likes Ruby. He starts out as an introvert and then inexplicably turns into an extrovert.
The middle part stretched quite a bit with all the will-they-won't-they stuff and frankly, I tired of it after a while. The book could have done with some good editing.
The writing was quite breezy and I liked how the author dealt with certain issues like miscarriage, parenthood, pansexuality, and homosexuality. JP's love story touched my heart.
I listened to the audiobook and the narrators, Charlotte Beaumont and Arthur McBain, were excellent.
3 stars.
Thanks to Netgalley, HarperCollinsUK Audio, and Laura Jane Williams for the audio ARC.
May 19, 2022
I enjoyed this book. The two protagonists meet when Nic comes to Ruby’s home to purchase her sofa the night before she leaves London. The attraction is strong and immediate. After a night of passion, Ruby leaves for a new life in Manchester as Nic begins his own in London.
The author has written two highly likeable characters, each starting a new chapter in their life. Told in alternating dual narratives, the reader is provided with great detail on what is happening in Ruby and Nic’s lives over the next several months. As a film-making student, Ruby’s focus is on successfully completing university. Nic’s world is turned upside down when he learns of a life-changing event.
Ruby has vowed not to pursue a relationship with anyone during what she calls “The Year of Ruby”. Throughout this time, Ruby and Nic have intermittent contact with one another despite the difference in geography. A friendship is fostered and the two come to rely on one another during difficult times.
As the year progresses it is clear that Ruby and Nic want to be together. But timing is everything, and Ruby is faced with making a difficult choice. The author does a great job demonstrating the inner conflict Ruby is faced with. Being true to yourself at each moment in life is a key message in this book. I recommend this book to those readers who enjoy General Fiction.
I listened to the audiobook of One Night With You which was narrated by Charlotte Beaumont and Arthur McBain. Their performances felt natural and easy to listen to. Their enthusiasm as these characters enhanced this already lovely story. I have no hesitation in recommending the audiobook to those that enjoy this format.
Thank you to HarperCollins UK Audio and Netgalley for the ARC of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
The author has written two highly likeable characters, each starting a new chapter in their life. Told in alternating dual narratives, the reader is provided with great detail on what is happening in Ruby and Nic’s lives over the next several months. As a film-making student, Ruby’s focus is on successfully completing university. Nic’s world is turned upside down when he learns of a life-changing event.
Ruby has vowed not to pursue a relationship with anyone during what she calls “The Year of Ruby”. Throughout this time, Ruby and Nic have intermittent contact with one another despite the difference in geography. A friendship is fostered and the two come to rely on one another during difficult times.
As the year progresses it is clear that Ruby and Nic want to be together. But timing is everything, and Ruby is faced with making a difficult choice. The author does a great job demonstrating the inner conflict Ruby is faced with. Being true to yourself at each moment in life is a key message in this book. I recommend this book to those readers who enjoy General Fiction.
I listened to the audiobook of One Night With You which was narrated by Charlotte Beaumont and Arthur McBain. Their performances felt natural and easy to listen to. Their enthusiasm as these characters enhanced this already lovely story. I have no hesitation in recommending the audiobook to those that enjoy this format.
Thank you to HarperCollins UK Audio and Netgalley for the ARC of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
September 8, 2024
3.5 🌟
Let me start off by saying I’ve never read anything like this before it was such a rollercoaster of a read it was interesting from time to time but then for me I found some parts boring I really enjoyed what I was reading but there was parts I didn’t like. This is such a hard review to write without saying spoilers but overall it was a decent read I enjoyed the found family within this book as well and I’m glad that Ruby FMC & Nic MMC both had a bit of a back story because it added more depth I just wish we got to read more of Ruby and Nic towards the end but for me this was worth the read
Just a reminder if you find yourself wanting to read this book please check trigger warnings 🤍
Quotes I loved:
“Connection is everything. Connection is what it is all about.”
“It's funny how a stranger can come out of nowhere and affect so much of your life in only a few months."
“Love him as a friend, maybe, or love him from afar. I don't know. That's the beauty of it. I don't need to know.”
Tropes:
🍕 Strangers to friends to lovers
💛 Right person wrong time
🍕 One night stand
💛 Found family
Let me start off by saying I’ve never read anything like this before it was such a rollercoaster of a read it was interesting from time to time but then for me I found some parts boring I really enjoyed what I was reading but there was parts I didn’t like. This is such a hard review to write without saying spoilers but overall it was a decent read I enjoyed the found family within this book as well and I’m glad that Ruby FMC & Nic MMC both had a bit of a back story because it added more depth I just wish we got to read more of Ruby and Nic towards the end but for me this was worth the read
Just a reminder if you find yourself wanting to read this book please check trigger warnings 🤍
Quotes I loved:
“Connection is everything. Connection is what it is all about.”
“It's funny how a stranger can come out of nowhere and affect so much of your life in only a few months."
“Love him as a friend, maybe, or love him from afar. I don't know. That's the beauty of it. I don't need to know.”
Tropes:
🍕 Strangers to friends to lovers
💛 Right person wrong time
🍕 One night stand
💛 Found family
May 17, 2022
Well that just happened ! Laura Jane Williams I hope your proud of yourself because you have now ruined all other rom com books (including coho) !
Wow
I’m not sure where to start but I suppose thank you to harper Collins, netgalley and of course Laura Jane Williams for gifting me this phenomenal book would be a start.
I adored this book , I kept trying to stop myself reading fast because I didn’t want it to end but equally I had to know what was going to happen next.
I’m in love with both nick, ruby and well basically everyone especially of course JP.
This book was perfection for me, everything just came together harmoniously. It had deep love without being sappy , realistic friendships that had bust ups, fall outs, forgiveness and honesty. It had tragedy, heartbreak and of course a bit of romp for extra spice.
I adored the writing and even the split between characters which can become a massive distraction ended up working perfectly in this case.
I couldn’t sense where the plot was going (like most rom coms) and was genuinely surprised with where the story ended up taking me.
This must be on everyone’s summer reading list because I genuinely adored it and can’t think of anyway it could be improved (which I don’t say often )!
As I have no criticisms I will leave this review here and be off to add all of Laura Jane Williams prior books to my Amazon wishlist!
Have you read this or any of Laura Jane Williams other books yet and if so what did you think?
Wow
I’m not sure where to start but I suppose thank you to harper Collins, netgalley and of course Laura Jane Williams for gifting me this phenomenal book would be a start.
I adored this book , I kept trying to stop myself reading fast because I didn’t want it to end but equally I had to know what was going to happen next.
I’m in love with both nick, ruby and well basically everyone especially of course JP.
This book was perfection for me, everything just came together harmoniously. It had deep love without being sappy , realistic friendships that had bust ups, fall outs, forgiveness and honesty. It had tragedy, heartbreak and of course a bit of romp for extra spice.
I adored the writing and even the split between characters which can become a massive distraction ended up working perfectly in this case.
I couldn’t sense where the plot was going (like most rom coms) and was genuinely surprised with where the story ended up taking me.
This must be on everyone’s summer reading list because I genuinely adored it and can’t think of anyway it could be improved (which I don’t say often )!
As I have no criticisms I will leave this review here and be off to add all of Laura Jane Williams prior books to my Amazon wishlist!
Have you read this or any of Laura Jane Williams other books yet and if so what did you think?
July 30, 2022
* listened to the eARC-audiobook*
Typical romcom, I couldn’t ever really find myself feeling the chemistry between the characters, the pace with slow with not much happening and constantly found myself bored. 5/5 for the narrator though, she was amazing to listen to, maybe the only reason I finished this book. Quite disappointing, the synopsis looked really good, this book just didn’t do anything for me.
Thank you NetGalley for this e-ARC
Typical romcom, I couldn’t ever really find myself feeling the chemistry between the characters, the pace with slow with not much happening and constantly found myself bored. 5/5 for the narrator though, she was amazing to listen to, maybe the only reason I finished this book. Quite disappointing, the synopsis looked really good, this book just didn’t do anything for me.
Thank you NetGalley for this e-ARC
June 10, 2022
There's a reason why I don't love slow paced books - I just don't have the patience for it I think! The wrong place, wrong time scenario should have clicked with me before I requested this one because I felt like I was waiting a looong time for the two to get their act together. If you're a fan of the slow burn, this one is for you.
January 19, 2024
I enjoyed Laura Jane William’s writing yet again, this was a lovely and easy book to digest ☺️ it wasn’t perfect and a bit cringey at times but was cute
March 10, 2024
Romcom with deep feelings, friendship, needing time to mature and figure out life….feel good.
May 30, 2022
Just like Laura’s previous books, I loved this one! Imagine finding the one person you think could YOUR person, but knowing that the timing just isn’t in your favour. It’s heartbreaking to read, but also so heartwarming to see our main characters put what they have planned for their lives first. I loved Ruby and her determination for her ‘year of me’. The way this character grows and develops in such a short amount of time is incredible, I was really rooting for her! And Nic…oh Nic, how I love him! A big move to London can be scary but it was just so lovely to see his new life begin. I loved his whole outlook on life.
They discover so much about themselves in this short snippet that we see of their lives and it is beautiful to see. We as readers ache for them to find one another again, but at the same time we don’t want them to stop on the personal journeys that they’re on! It’s such emotional turmoil for the reader! Oh and the side characters!! How I loved them too! I was just as engrossed in their stories as I was Nic and Ruby’s!
I don’t think I’ve read a book like this, where I’m so torn on what I want for the characters. When the love is RIGHT there but at the same time you want them to not chase it because you know they need to do something else for themselves. I loved that, it just shows how much we fall for our main characters in such a short amount of time. And yes…tears were shed over this book! ❤️
They discover so much about themselves in this short snippet that we see of their lives and it is beautiful to see. We as readers ache for them to find one another again, but at the same time we don’t want them to stop on the personal journeys that they’re on! It’s such emotional turmoil for the reader! Oh and the side characters!! How I loved them too! I was just as engrossed in their stories as I was Nic and Ruby’s!
I don’t think I’ve read a book like this, where I’m so torn on what I want for the characters. When the love is RIGHT there but at the same time you want them to not chase it because you know they need to do something else for themselves. I loved that, it just shows how much we fall for our main characters in such a short amount of time. And yes…tears were shed over this book! ❤️
January 27, 2022
One Night With You is the upcoming release by the AMAZING Laura Jane Williams!
I loved this story from the start or First Blood - you will have to read the book to understand the saying!! This book has it all - romance, a bit of steam, friendship, heartbreak and success.
There was such a great mix of characters. Ruby and Nic were so perfect - Ruby especially as she was such an independent woman, but my favourite character had to be JP! He was a proper old school gent and just what you would want from a Grandfather.
I cannot recommend this one enough - more than your average Rom-Com!
I loved this story from the start or First Blood - you will have to read the book to understand the saying!! This book has it all - romance, a bit of steam, friendship, heartbreak and success.
There was such a great mix of characters. Ruby and Nic were so perfect - Ruby especially as she was such an independent woman, but my favourite character had to be JP! He was a proper old school gent and just what you would want from a Grandfather.
I cannot recommend this one enough - more than your average Rom-Com!
March 16, 2022
**Thank you to Netgalley and Avon Books UK for the ARC, in exchange of an honest review**
CW: Miscarriage, death, injury
Ruby is leaving for Manchester to get her Master’s degree after a nasty heartbreak. Nic is moving to London to start afresh and become the best version of himself. One night and a sofa is all it takes for them to become besotted with each other.
I was hoping for a light romance novel, similar to Laura Jane’s "The Wrong Suitcase", with your typical one-night-stand trope, but this was messy, and had too many plots running at the same time for me to become invested. I don’t think the romance side of it is that relevant, and it rather focuses on the characters' development and how they try to achieve their dreams and goals.
I struggled to connect with the characters, especially Ruby, because her "Year of me" pledge is great, and I totally agree with being happy on your own, but she felt selfish at times, just like her friend Candice, her personality didn’t sit right with me.
Nic was perfect, unrealistically perfect, and I felt like of all of them, he had the best development, especially shown after the turning point event for the couple.
Things I particularly liked: Jackson’s friendship with everyone--I think he was so good and had great advice to give; The lack of miscommunication--if there’s something I hate, it's unnecessary hassle between characters just because they can’t communicate; JP and William - JP in particular was such a bundle of joy. I loved him and his quest to find a lost love.
Overall, an alright book. I don’t regret reading it, and I suppose I didn’t like it more, mostly due to my high expectations. I’m sure I would recommend it if I found the right person for it.
CW: Miscarriage, death, injury
Ruby is leaving for Manchester to get her Master’s degree after a nasty heartbreak. Nic is moving to London to start afresh and become the best version of himself. One night and a sofa is all it takes for them to become besotted with each other.
I was hoping for a light romance novel, similar to Laura Jane’s "The Wrong Suitcase", with your typical one-night-stand trope, but this was messy, and had too many plots running at the same time for me to become invested. I don’t think the romance side of it is that relevant, and it rather focuses on the characters' development and how they try to achieve their dreams and goals.
I struggled to connect with the characters, especially Ruby, because her "Year of me" pledge is great, and I totally agree with being happy on your own, but she felt selfish at times, just like her friend Candice, her personality didn’t sit right with me.
Nic was perfect, unrealistically perfect, and I felt like of all of them, he had the best development, especially shown after the turning point event for the couple.
Things I particularly liked: Jackson’s friendship with everyone--I think he was so good and had great advice to give; The lack of miscommunication--if there’s something I hate, it's unnecessary hassle between characters just because they can’t communicate; JP and William - JP in particular was such a bundle of joy. I loved him and his quest to find a lost love.
Overall, an alright book. I don’t regret reading it, and I suppose I didn’t like it more, mostly due to my high expectations. I’m sure I would recommend it if I found the right person for it.
April 10, 2022
Loved The Wrong Suitcase by Laura Jane Williams, so was excited to be accepted for this book on NetGalley.
This book gave me high hopes initially. I personally found the instant attraction believable, and liked that the story started where things were getting interesting. However, the pacing for me went a little downhill from there. Things in the middle just felt a little slow. Also felt a bit disappointed with the last 20%.
Loved the friendships in this group, even if Ruby and her friends liked to scam people, which is a bit of a downer. Jackson was a super supportive friend and I think everyone needs a Jackson in their life. Candice was glossed over a little. Henry was passionate and also supportive. JP as a character was great, loved his zest for life and the advice he gave.
Ruby felt quite self-centered and that made her a little unlikeable. Nic was kinda too perfect, which made him less believable. Their dialogue always seemed a little off too.
Now for the ending, I won't spoil it, but the ending felt very disappointing. Things just felt neatly tied with a bow and it fell a bit flat for me.
Would like to say thank you to NetGalley and the publisher Avon Books for a eARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book gave me high hopes initially. I personally found the instant attraction believable, and liked that the story started where things were getting interesting. However, the pacing for me went a little downhill from there. Things in the middle just felt a little slow. Also felt a bit disappointed with the last 20%.
Loved the friendships in this group, even if Ruby and her friends liked to scam people, which is a bit of a downer. Jackson was a super supportive friend and I think everyone needs a Jackson in their life. Candice was glossed over a little. Henry was passionate and also supportive. JP as a character was great, loved his zest for life and the advice he gave.
Ruby felt quite self-centered and that made her a little unlikeable. Nic was kinda too perfect, which made him less believable. Their dialogue always seemed a little off too.
Now for the ending, I won't spoil it, but the ending felt very disappointing. Things just felt neatly tied with a bow and it fell a bit flat for me.
Would like to say thank you to NetGalley and the publisher Avon Books for a eARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 27, 2022
Guys Laura Jane Williams has done it AGAIN! This is a heartfelt love story all about finding the right person at the wrong time and it’s so achingly tender and warm that it’ll have even the most cynic believing in destiny
Ruby meets Nic on her last night in London before she leaves to study film in Manchester. The pair get to spend just that one night together before they have to part ways and so they pledge to make it an unforgettable one night stand before they plough on with their separate lives. However that doesn’t quite go to plan and the pair find themselves drawn to one another despite any obstacles in their path.
There’s an oozing of charm and wit - classic features of Laura’s romcoms - and the characters are vivid and well developed. Their romance is frustrating in the best way and I loved how fast paced their story was, without distracting from Nic and Ruby’s journeys of self discovery. There is sarcasm aplenty and the back and forth kismet like attraction between the pair had me tearing through the pages to find out whether they’d get their happy ever after or not.
Perfect for fans of romance-centric women’s fiction, One Night With You is out 26 May 🤩 huge thank you to Avon books and Netgalley for my copy!
Ruby meets Nic on her last night in London before she leaves to study film in Manchester. The pair get to spend just that one night together before they have to part ways and so they pledge to make it an unforgettable one night stand before they plough on with their separate lives. However that doesn’t quite go to plan and the pair find themselves drawn to one another despite any obstacles in their path.
There’s an oozing of charm and wit - classic features of Laura’s romcoms - and the characters are vivid and well developed. Their romance is frustrating in the best way and I loved how fast paced their story was, without distracting from Nic and Ruby’s journeys of self discovery. There is sarcasm aplenty and the back and forth kismet like attraction between the pair had me tearing through the pages to find out whether they’d get their happy ever after or not.
Perfect for fans of romance-centric women’s fiction, One Night With You is out 26 May 🤩 huge thank you to Avon books and Netgalley for my copy!
October 6, 2022
I loved this book! It was fun, and our main characters, Ruby and Nic, were fantastic. I loved their chemistry, it kept me hooked right from the start. This book is a very fun and charming read, the pace of the book flowed perfectly and the writing style was easy to follow and read. The friendships in this book were also such a huge part of the story, and all of the characters were written really well. I felt connected to them, and to their lives. This is my first book by Laura Jane Williams, however I am now questioning why I haven't read any others before! Huge thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for approving me to read a copy of this book.
May 11, 2022
Narrator 5 stars
Story 4 stars
Not your typical RomCom. A little more raw and real which I appreciated. Really likeable characters.
Story 4 stars
Not your typical RomCom. A little more raw and real which I appreciated. Really likeable characters.
August 8, 2024
Kitschy and obvious storyline, crap
March 5, 2022
2.5 stars
TW; miscarriage, death, injury
**Thank you NetGalley and Avon Books UK for a copy of this ARC. These are my honest thoughts.**
Whilst the synopsis wasn't exactly misleading, I do feel that this was a book that was much more than just the one-night stand that brought Nic and Ruby together. But that doesn't mean this book was all that enjoyable for me. I felt a lot of this novel was wildly over-dialogued and unnecessary. It was also all over the place and hard to follow at times and I struggled to hold an interest in what was going on.
I would definitely class this more as a women's lit read than a romance. Whilst Nic and Ruby's feelings are approached back and forth throughout this novel, I found it was more about them as people becoming who they wanted and needed to be and a lot of ill-timed happenstances that seemed to get more dramatic as time went on. I didn't find either main character relatable or interesting enough to root for them to get together, and a lot of their relationship felt unconvincing to me. Frankly, neither felt realistic to me, and I especially found Ruby rather selfish and indecisive.
I did like the friendships they made along the way, and my favourite part about this book was the side storyline about JP searching for his lost love. JP was a wonderful character, and I enjoyed his moments a fair deal.
Sadly, given this book was meant to be about two people connecting one fateful evening and seeing whether they would become something more than that, it felt like quite the let down given most of the book wasn't completely focused on that. The ending was also very sudden with the 4 year time jump that cheapened the conclusion for me with a whole lot of telling rather than showing.
Since I tend to read more romance than women's lit, this just didn't hit the mark for me at all.
TW; miscarriage, death, injury
**Thank you NetGalley and Avon Books UK for a copy of this ARC. These are my honest thoughts.**
Whilst the synopsis wasn't exactly misleading, I do feel that this was a book that was much more than just the one-night stand that brought Nic and Ruby together. But that doesn't mean this book was all that enjoyable for me. I felt a lot of this novel was wildly over-dialogued and unnecessary. It was also all over the place and hard to follow at times and I struggled to hold an interest in what was going on.
I would definitely class this more as a women's lit read than a romance. Whilst Nic and Ruby's feelings are approached back and forth throughout this novel, I found it was more about them as people becoming who they wanted and needed to be and a lot of ill-timed happenstances that seemed to get more dramatic as time went on. I didn't find either main character relatable or interesting enough to root for them to get together, and a lot of their relationship felt unconvincing to me. Frankly, neither felt realistic to me, and I especially found Ruby rather selfish and indecisive.
I did like the friendships they made along the way, and my favourite part about this book was the side storyline about JP searching for his lost love. JP was a wonderful character, and I enjoyed his moments a fair deal.
Sadly, given this book was meant to be about two people connecting one fateful evening and seeing whether they would become something more than that, it felt like quite the let down given most of the book wasn't completely focused on that. The ending was also very sudden with the 4 year time jump that cheapened the conclusion for me with a whole lot of telling rather than showing.
Since I tend to read more romance than women's lit, this just didn't hit the mark for me at all.
May 29, 2022
After her love affair with lying, cheating, Abe crashes and burns, Ruby decides to concentrate on herself for a change, she plans to leave her flatshare in London and has enrolled on a one-year documentary film-making course at Manchester University.
Nic has just split up from his childhood sweetheart, Millie, disappointing her and their families. He's too timid to go after anything he wants but has decided to move from Liverpool to London, spend some time with his little brother Ollie and reinvent himself (hopefully).
Nic and Ruby meet when he comes to buy her velvet sofa, sparks fly but how can either of them give up their dreams and plans for a one-night stand? But fate has a funny way of getting her own way, so when Ruby's former flatmate takes Nic under his wing it seems the two of them are moving in the same circles, or at least adjacent circles more than either of them had expected.
Fair warning, I have been on a real book downer for a few weeks but this just didn't do it for me. There seemed to be all sorts of plots swirling around, like Ruby's documentary about a WW2 veteran who has never forgotten the French girl he fell in love with all those decades ago and now wants to find her before he dies, or the falling-out with Ruby's ex-flatmate which get inflated into a BIG DEAL and then fizzle out. Also there are two big things that happen near the end of the novel which (to me) just scream that the author didn't know where to take the book next, and yet again they sort of fizzled into nothing. My overall feeling was that this was a very long novel about a woman who makes a couple of very strong life-choices and then forces herself to stick by them come-hell-or-high-water, for no good reason.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Nic has just split up from his childhood sweetheart, Millie, disappointing her and their families. He's too timid to go after anything he wants but has decided to move from Liverpool to London, spend some time with his little brother Ollie and reinvent himself (hopefully).
Nic and Ruby meet when he comes to buy her velvet sofa, sparks fly but how can either of them give up their dreams and plans for a one-night stand? But fate has a funny way of getting her own way, so when Ruby's former flatmate takes Nic under his wing it seems the two of them are moving in the same circles, or at least adjacent circles more than either of them had expected.
Fair warning, I have been on a real book downer for a few weeks but this just didn't do it for me. There seemed to be all sorts of plots swirling around, like Ruby's documentary about a WW2 veteran who has never forgotten the French girl he fell in love with all those decades ago and now wants to find her before he dies, or the falling-out with Ruby's ex-flatmate which get inflated into a BIG DEAL and then fizzle out. Also there are two big things that happen near the end of the novel which (to me) just scream that the author didn't know where to take the book next, and yet again they sort of fizzled into nothing. My overall feeling was that this was a very long novel about a woman who makes a couple of very strong life-choices and then forces herself to stick by them come-hell-or-high-water, for no good reason.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
July 23, 2023
Inhalt:
Als Nic und Ruby sich wegen der Übergabe eines Sofas treffen, ist es Liebe auf den ersten Blick, zumindest bei ihm. Aber auch sie fühlt sich irgendwie zu dem Fremden hingezogen, mit dem sie nur eine Nacht verbringen kann, da sie am nächsten Morgen umzieht. Die beiden haben ein echt schlechtes Timing und es vergeht viel Zeit, bis die beiden verstehen, was sie wollen.
Meine Meinung:
Als ich das Cover sah, war es um mich geschehen. Wir sehen zwei Menschen, die auf den beiden Enden einer Parkbank sitzen und lesen. Der Hintergrund ist in verschiedenen Blautönen gehalten und ein Mond strahlt in einer Ecke. Ich finde es wirklich sehr harmonisch und stimmig, zumal die abgebildeten Personen auch den beiden Hauptprotagonisten Ruby und Nic sehr ähnlich sehen. Allerdings verstehe ich nicht so ganz, warum man kein Sofa genommen hat, das hätte irgendwie besser gepasst.
Ich glaube, ich bin, wie manch andere Leser aus der Runde anhand des Titels mit den falschen Erwartungen rangegangen. Denn die Geschichte erstreckt sich nicht wie man vermutet über eine Nacht, sondern über viele Monate und schließlich Jahre. Und auch der Klappentext ließ andere Erwartungen aufkommen. Ich dachte, es wäre eine emotionale Liebesgeschichte über zwei Menschen, die füreinander bestimmt sind und denen das Schicksal in Form eines Umzugs in die Quere kommt, aber es kam alles anders.
Der Beginn gefiel mir noch ganz gut. Man lernte Ruby, Nic und ihr direktes Umfeld kennen und erfuhr ihre Ausgangssituation in der Geschichte. Als sie sich schließlich das erste Mal trafen, ist es für ihn Liebe auf den ersten Blick, während sie Angst vor seinem „gruseligen“ Blick bekam, was ich herrlich fand. Es gab auch dank Jackson, einem Mitbewohner von Ruby, einige humorvolle Momente, wobei ich aber auch sagen muss, dass seine Kommentare über Frauen unnötig und respektlos waren. Dennoch mochte ich die Charaktere und fand auch die Gespräche, die Ruby und Nic in der Nacht führten interessant.
Allerdings ließ mich das Buch schon nicht einmal 100 Seiten die Stirn runzeln, als die Nacht endete und die beiden ihren Weg gingen. Da finde ich den Titel des Buches sehr unpassend, weil ich dachte, dass die ganze Geschichte innerhalb einer Nacht spielen würde und ich denke, das hätte mir weitaus mehr zugesagt als das, was ich dann erhielt.
Es hat seine guten Momente und ich mochte den Handlungsstrang mit J. D. , über den Ruby mit ihrem Mitstudenten Harry eine Doku drehte, aber ansonsten fand ich es sehr langweilig. Es passierte eigentlich nicht viel und vor allem die Liebesgeschichte zwischen ihr und Nic geriet völlig in Vergessenheit und ehrlich gesagt habe ich es nicht verstanden, was die beiden aneinander fanden, weil ich auch kaum Chemie zwischen ihnen spürte und bei jedem kleinen Problem einer von den beiden zurückruderte und alles lieber aufgab, anstatt darum zu kämpfen.
Die Geschichte geriet oft sehr ins Stocken und nur die Suche nach J. D.´s großer Liebe Amelie wurde packend und emotional erzählt. Da fieberte ich wirklich die ganze Zeit mit und auch, wenn ich mit dem Ende rechnete, zerriss es mir das Herz. Aber da zeigte die Autorin, was sie eigentlich drauf hat, warum dann nicht bei Ruby und Nic? Das hin und her bei ihnen wirkte nicht nur langweilig, sondern nervte mich auch irgendwann, weil die beiden einfach nicht in der Lage waren, die einfachsten Dinge zu klären. Vor allem in der heutigen Zeit hätte einiges unnötige Drama damit verhindert werden können, nur, wenn man mal online oder altmodisch per Telefonat den Kontakt gesucht hätte. Schließlich besaß er ihre Nummer und sah dies selber ein.
Zudem passierten später Ereignisse, die ich unpassend fand. Diese wurden einfach reingequetscht, damit man ein bestimmtes Ergebnis hatte, egal, ob es nun in die Geschichte passte oder nicht. Die darauf folgenden Reaktionen bestimmter Charaktere waren übertrieben, bzw. nicht passend, weil es zu gestellt wirkte. Zwar konnte ich bei Ruby durchaus verstehen, warum sie sich so fühlte, aber es passte einfach nicht. Die Harmoniesucht am Ende wirkte überzogen und naja, irgendwie sehr schräg. Auf einmal war alles auf „Happy End“ eingestellt, wo alles rosarot war und das irritierte mich. Ich fand den Hintergrundgedanken schon gut und mir gefiel es durchaus, dass jeder sein glückliches Ende bekam, aber weniger wäre mehr gewesen.
Die Charaktere sagten mir nur bedingt zu. J.D. , Harry und auch Jackson gefielen mir so gut, schade, dass Nick und Ruby mich nicht überzeugten konnten. Allerdings muss ich auch sagen, dass die Figuren generell nicht sonderlich interessant und vielschichtig gezeichnet wurden, außer die genannten vielleicht. Vor allem Rubys Freundin und Mitbewohnerin Candice war mir sehr unsympathisch und irgendwann konnte ich es auch nicht mehr verstehen, warum Ruby immer noch an der Freundschaft zu dieser Frau hielt, obwohl diese ihr einige Steine in den Weg legt und ziemlich ungerecht und falsch agierte. Nur eben J.D. mochte ich wirklich sehr gerne, weil der alte Mann so sympathisch und trotz seines hohen Alters so agil und lebensfroh wirkte.
Nic und Ruby blieben ziemlich blass und auch, wenn ich zu Nick eine bessere Beziehung aufbauen konnte als zu ihr, fand ich beide nicht sehr sympathisch. Sie schafften es nicht, offen miteinander zu reden und Klartext zu reden, was irgendwann recht anstrengend war. Zwar konnte ich Ruby manchmal schon verstehen, fand ihre Reaktion aber schon übertrieben und ungerecht. Sie versuchte es immer, anderen recht zu machen, anstatt auf ihr Herz zu hören und ehrlich zu sein. Nic dagegen war für mich greifbarer, auch weil ich vieles an ihm zu gut verstand. Die Hemmungen, mit anderen Leute und vor allem anderen Geschlechtern Kontakte zu knüpfen, die Ängste und Sorgen, ich konnte es sehr gut nach empfinden, allerdings fehlte mir auch bei ihm etwas.
Der Schreibstil ließ sich eher sperrig lesen und auch, wenn ich relativ gut durchkam, hatte ich meine Schwierigkeiten damit. Das Buch wurde aus den beiden Sichten von Ruby und Nick in der allgemeinen Erzählperspektive geschrieben, aber es blieb blass. Der erwartete und Humor und die Emotionen blieben meistens auf der Strecke.
Fazit:
Ich vermisste den versprochenen Witz und die Emotionen, die einen überwältigten sollten und fand es streckenweise recht langweilig. Entweder passierte gar nichts, die Nebenhandlung war interessanter als die eigentliche oder es wurde zu dramatisch. Irgendwie schaffte die Autorin es hier nicht, eine gute Balance zu halten. Es hat seine netten Momente, aber ich habe einfach etwas anderes erwartet.
Als Nic und Ruby sich wegen der Übergabe eines Sofas treffen, ist es Liebe auf den ersten Blick, zumindest bei ihm. Aber auch sie fühlt sich irgendwie zu dem Fremden hingezogen, mit dem sie nur eine Nacht verbringen kann, da sie am nächsten Morgen umzieht. Die beiden haben ein echt schlechtes Timing und es vergeht viel Zeit, bis die beiden verstehen, was sie wollen.
Meine Meinung:
Als ich das Cover sah, war es um mich geschehen. Wir sehen zwei Menschen, die auf den beiden Enden einer Parkbank sitzen und lesen. Der Hintergrund ist in verschiedenen Blautönen gehalten und ein Mond strahlt in einer Ecke. Ich finde es wirklich sehr harmonisch und stimmig, zumal die abgebildeten Personen auch den beiden Hauptprotagonisten Ruby und Nic sehr ähnlich sehen. Allerdings verstehe ich nicht so ganz, warum man kein Sofa genommen hat, das hätte irgendwie besser gepasst.
Ich glaube, ich bin, wie manch andere Leser aus der Runde anhand des Titels mit den falschen Erwartungen rangegangen. Denn die Geschichte erstreckt sich nicht wie man vermutet über eine Nacht, sondern über viele Monate und schließlich Jahre. Und auch der Klappentext ließ andere Erwartungen aufkommen. Ich dachte, es wäre eine emotionale Liebesgeschichte über zwei Menschen, die füreinander bestimmt sind und denen das Schicksal in Form eines Umzugs in die Quere kommt, aber es kam alles anders.
Der Beginn gefiel mir noch ganz gut. Man lernte Ruby, Nic und ihr direktes Umfeld kennen und erfuhr ihre Ausgangssituation in der Geschichte. Als sie sich schließlich das erste Mal trafen, ist es für ihn Liebe auf den ersten Blick, während sie Angst vor seinem „gruseligen“ Blick bekam, was ich herrlich fand. Es gab auch dank Jackson, einem Mitbewohner von Ruby, einige humorvolle Momente, wobei ich aber auch sagen muss, dass seine Kommentare über Frauen unnötig und respektlos waren. Dennoch mochte ich die Charaktere und fand auch die Gespräche, die Ruby und Nic in der Nacht führten interessant.
Allerdings ließ mich das Buch schon nicht einmal 100 Seiten die Stirn runzeln, als die Nacht endete und die beiden ihren Weg gingen. Da finde ich den Titel des Buches sehr unpassend, weil ich dachte, dass die ganze Geschichte innerhalb einer Nacht spielen würde und ich denke, das hätte mir weitaus mehr zugesagt als das, was ich dann erhielt.
Es hat seine guten Momente und ich mochte den Handlungsstrang mit J. D. , über den Ruby mit ihrem Mitstudenten Harry eine Doku drehte, aber ansonsten fand ich es sehr langweilig. Es passierte eigentlich nicht viel und vor allem die Liebesgeschichte zwischen ihr und Nic geriet völlig in Vergessenheit und ehrlich gesagt habe ich es nicht verstanden, was die beiden aneinander fanden, weil ich auch kaum Chemie zwischen ihnen spürte und bei jedem kleinen Problem einer von den beiden zurückruderte und alles lieber aufgab, anstatt darum zu kämpfen.
Die Geschichte geriet oft sehr ins Stocken und nur die Suche nach J. D.´s großer Liebe Amelie wurde packend und emotional erzählt. Da fieberte ich wirklich die ganze Zeit mit und auch, wenn ich mit dem Ende rechnete, zerriss es mir das Herz. Aber da zeigte die Autorin, was sie eigentlich drauf hat, warum dann nicht bei Ruby und Nic? Das hin und her bei ihnen wirkte nicht nur langweilig, sondern nervte mich auch irgendwann, weil die beiden einfach nicht in der Lage waren, die einfachsten Dinge zu klären. Vor allem in der heutigen Zeit hätte einiges unnötige Drama damit verhindert werden können, nur, wenn man mal online oder altmodisch per Telefonat den Kontakt gesucht hätte. Schließlich besaß er ihre Nummer und sah dies selber ein.
Zudem passierten später Ereignisse, die ich unpassend fand. Diese wurden einfach reingequetscht, damit man ein bestimmtes Ergebnis hatte, egal, ob es nun in die Geschichte passte oder nicht. Die darauf folgenden Reaktionen bestimmter Charaktere waren übertrieben, bzw. nicht passend, weil es zu gestellt wirkte. Zwar konnte ich bei Ruby durchaus verstehen, warum sie sich so fühlte, aber es passte einfach nicht. Die Harmoniesucht am Ende wirkte überzogen und naja, irgendwie sehr schräg. Auf einmal war alles auf „Happy End“ eingestellt, wo alles rosarot war und das irritierte mich. Ich fand den Hintergrundgedanken schon gut und mir gefiel es durchaus, dass jeder sein glückliches Ende bekam, aber weniger wäre mehr gewesen.
Die Charaktere sagten mir nur bedingt zu. J.D. , Harry und auch Jackson gefielen mir so gut, schade, dass Nick und Ruby mich nicht überzeugten konnten. Allerdings muss ich auch sagen, dass die Figuren generell nicht sonderlich interessant und vielschichtig gezeichnet wurden, außer die genannten vielleicht. Vor allem Rubys Freundin und Mitbewohnerin Candice war mir sehr unsympathisch und irgendwann konnte ich es auch nicht mehr verstehen, warum Ruby immer noch an der Freundschaft zu dieser Frau hielt, obwohl diese ihr einige Steine in den Weg legt und ziemlich ungerecht und falsch agierte. Nur eben J.D. mochte ich wirklich sehr gerne, weil der alte Mann so sympathisch und trotz seines hohen Alters so agil und lebensfroh wirkte.
Nic und Ruby blieben ziemlich blass und auch, wenn ich zu Nick eine bessere Beziehung aufbauen konnte als zu ihr, fand ich beide nicht sehr sympathisch. Sie schafften es nicht, offen miteinander zu reden und Klartext zu reden, was irgendwann recht anstrengend war. Zwar konnte ich Ruby manchmal schon verstehen, fand ihre Reaktion aber schon übertrieben und ungerecht. Sie versuchte es immer, anderen recht zu machen, anstatt auf ihr Herz zu hören und ehrlich zu sein. Nic dagegen war für mich greifbarer, auch weil ich vieles an ihm zu gut verstand. Die Hemmungen, mit anderen Leute und vor allem anderen Geschlechtern Kontakte zu knüpfen, die Ängste und Sorgen, ich konnte es sehr gut nach empfinden, allerdings fehlte mir auch bei ihm etwas.
Der Schreibstil ließ sich eher sperrig lesen und auch, wenn ich relativ gut durchkam, hatte ich meine Schwierigkeiten damit. Das Buch wurde aus den beiden Sichten von Ruby und Nick in der allgemeinen Erzählperspektive geschrieben, aber es blieb blass. Der erwartete und Humor und die Emotionen blieben meistens auf der Strecke.
Fazit:
Ich vermisste den versprochenen Witz und die Emotionen, die einen überwältigten sollten und fand es streckenweise recht langweilig. Entweder passierte gar nichts, die Nebenhandlung war interessanter als die eigentliche oder es wurde zu dramatisch. Irgendwie schaffte die Autorin es hier nicht, eine gute Balance zu halten. Es hat seine netten Momente, aber ich habe einfach etwas anderes erwartet.
March 13, 2022
I have loved reading Laura Jane Williams's books since the first one and gobbled up her latest offering One Night With You, with as much anticipation and excitement as the rest.
Ruby and Nic are so similar but different.
Both are starting new chapters in their lives, and moving away, after events that changed the course of their lives.
There's just one night, where they both collide, by pure coincidence, and the sparks that fly are undeniable to both themselves and Ruby's housemates.
But the sparks are just not enough to keep one from changing their new plans.
Thing is, when you meet someone like that, they are pretty hard to forget.
Nic immerses his new life in London, making friends, and tentatively begins dating.
Ruby puts her whole self into her Masters up North, revelling in her Year of Me.
but neither of them can forget the other,
Add in the fantastic character, JP, the nonagenarian, with a love story that captures Ruby's interest, and encourages her to think more deeply into what she really wants, and you have a pretty good read!
There are friendship politics here, as well as grief, passionate encounters and tearful partings. All in all, a whole lot of almosts.
Will almost ever be enough?
I enjoyed reading this because it wasn't just some sort of simple romance, but a tale with a whole load of side stories to add spice to it,
Many thanks to NetGalley and Avon Books for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Ruby and Nic are so similar but different.
Both are starting new chapters in their lives, and moving away, after events that changed the course of their lives.
There's just one night, where they both collide, by pure coincidence, and the sparks that fly are undeniable to both themselves and Ruby's housemates.
But the sparks are just not enough to keep one from changing their new plans.
Thing is, when you meet someone like that, they are pretty hard to forget.
Nic immerses his new life in London, making friends, and tentatively begins dating.
Ruby puts her whole self into her Masters up North, revelling in her Year of Me.
but neither of them can forget the other,
Add in the fantastic character, JP, the nonagenarian, with a love story that captures Ruby's interest, and encourages her to think more deeply into what she really wants, and you have a pretty good read!
There are friendship politics here, as well as grief, passionate encounters and tearful partings. All in all, a whole lot of almosts.
Will almost ever be enough?
I enjoyed reading this because it wasn't just some sort of simple romance, but a tale with a whole load of side stories to add spice to it,
Many thanks to NetGalley and Avon Books for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 31, 2022
"Love. Love cures everything. Love is preventative. Love is."
One Night With You is told from both Ruby and Nick's perspectives, who meet on her last night and his first night in London when he picks up her sofa. The pair have an instant connection and spent one magical night together before going their separate ways. However, they keep in touch and fate continues to bring them back together. But are they ready for forever?
First, let me just say that I really liked Nick. He was the epitome of a nice guy: a little bit awkward, very kind and completely smitten with Ruby. I could completely relate to his fresh start in the city and how it changed him. On the other hand, I could also relate to Ruby finding herself in Manchester. I loved their poetic texts back and forth and their ease around one another.
There were some great supporting characters too, like JP and Jackson. I mean, JP's entire storyline was a highlight, let's be real. Finally, I really liked the audiobook narrators (sucker for an English accent, what can I say).
My one main critique was that I felt there were too many underdeveloped storylines and subplots and at one point, there was a haphazard dropping of bombshell after bombshell that affected the story's flow for me.
One Night With You is told from both Ruby and Nick's perspectives, who meet on her last night and his first night in London when he picks up her sofa. The pair have an instant connection and spent one magical night together before going their separate ways. However, they keep in touch and fate continues to bring them back together. But are they ready for forever?
First, let me just say that I really liked Nick. He was the epitome of a nice guy: a little bit awkward, very kind and completely smitten with Ruby. I could completely relate to his fresh start in the city and how it changed him. On the other hand, I could also relate to Ruby finding herself in Manchester. I loved their poetic texts back and forth and their ease around one another.
There were some great supporting characters too, like JP and Jackson. I mean, JP's entire storyline was a highlight, let's be real. Finally, I really liked the audiobook narrators (sucker for an English accent, what can I say).
My one main critique was that I felt there were too many underdeveloped storylines and subplots and at one point, there was a haphazard dropping of bombshell after bombshell that affected the story's flow for me.
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