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Take a Chance on Me
Cleo Quinn doesn't have the greatest track record with men, but now Will¡s come along she has every reason to be optimistic. Things are definitely looking up for Cleo ... apart from one small problem with a rather large ego. Johnny LaVenture, sculptor extraordinaire and her personal childhood nemesis, is back in Channing's Hill and tormenting her as if he¡d never been away. Meanwhile, Cleo's sister Abbie has a problem of her own - husband Tom has become withdrawn, and she's determined to find out why. But will the truth mean the end of their happy marriage? The sisters are about to discover that the past can come back to haunt you, and that love can flourish in the unlikeliest of places ...
410 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2010
244 people are currently reading
6306 people want to read
About the author
Jill Mansell
85 books4,870 followersJill Mansell lives with her partner and children in Bristol, and writes full time. Actually that’s not true; she watches TV, eats fruit gums, admires the rugby players training in the sports field behind her house, and spends hours on the internet marvelling at how many other writers have blogs. Only when she’s completely run out of displacement activities does she write.
Jill Mansell's books have sold over ten million copies and her titles include: Making your Mind up, Fast Friends, Good at Games, Sheer Mischief and Solo, among many others.
Jill Mansell's books have sold over ten million copies and her titles include: Making your Mind up, Fast Friends, Good at Games, Sheer Mischief and Solo, among many others.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 510 reviews
February 14, 2024
Was ok, a decent enough sunbed read. Zero concentration required and not really engaging.
Two stars.
Two stars.
June 21, 2016
Published: 15/2/2010
Author: Jill Mansell
Loved this book! I knew after reading the first page that I would be hooked. The story revolves around Cleo Quinn and her quest to find true love, and her sister Abbie who finds out her husbands secret. My favourite character was Ash Parry-Jones the radio D.J. I think Jill Mansell is a brilliant author and Take a Chance on Me is a gentle read but entertaining nevertheless. You must read it, it's a definite recommend. It took three days to read, housework can wait! Have started on my next Jill Mansell book "Don't Want to Miss a Thing".
Author: Jill Mansell
Loved this book! I knew after reading the first page that I would be hooked. The story revolves around Cleo Quinn and her quest to find true love, and her sister Abbie who finds out her husbands secret. My favourite character was Ash Parry-Jones the radio D.J. I think Jill Mansell is a brilliant author and Take a Chance on Me is a gentle read but entertaining nevertheless. You must read it, it's a definite recommend. It took three days to read, housework can wait! Have started on my next Jill Mansell book "Don't Want to Miss a Thing".
November 27, 2011
Jill Mansell,
When i finish your novels, a sigh always escapes my mouth and i just lie there staring into space with the book held tightly in my arms. There is this huge smile on my face and then i think to myself, 'Wow! I know i'll be picking up another book of hers.'
It's like eating a chocolate cake, with chocolate icing and chocolate ice cream on the side after the longest most excruciating diet ever. With every spoonful, your eyes close and you slip into ecstasy. It's like hugging a warm puppy on a cold rainy night. It's snuggling under the covers and relishing the warmth.
Want to know why i love her novels so much? It's because she uses the most cliched scenarios and makes them into the most unique stories. There are quite a few characters in the stories and she keeps switching between their perspectives, keeping me hooked till the very end. And she always, always gives you a happy ending even if at first it seems inevitable. She makes you believe in the 'one'.
I think i loved this book the most. The story is simple enough but the way its been incorporated is just fantastic. The characters are the most real beings and you can easily connect with them. Grab her books, trust me! She will leave you wanting more!
When i finish your novels, a sigh always escapes my mouth and i just lie there staring into space with the book held tightly in my arms. There is this huge smile on my face and then i think to myself, 'Wow! I know i'll be picking up another book of hers.'
It's like eating a chocolate cake, with chocolate icing and chocolate ice cream on the side after the longest most excruciating diet ever. With every spoonful, your eyes close and you slip into ecstasy. It's like hugging a warm puppy on a cold rainy night. It's snuggling under the covers and relishing the warmth.
Want to know why i love her novels so much? It's because she uses the most cliched scenarios and makes them into the most unique stories. There are quite a few characters in the stories and she keeps switching between their perspectives, keeping me hooked till the very end. And she always, always gives you a happy ending even if at first it seems inevitable. She makes you believe in the 'one'.
I think i loved this book the most. The story is simple enough but the way its been incorporated is just fantastic. The characters are the most real beings and you can easily connect with them. Grab her books, trust me! She will leave you wanting more!
November 10, 2019
Tried reading this one again and liked it much better than on the first attempt. That said, I've figured out that pre-2011 Jill Mansell novels are not my cup of tea. Similar to Jenny Colgan, I just don't like her earlier works. However, so far all of the books she's written since that time have been 3.5 or 4 stars reads. I'm making my way through the rest of her more recent novels and am loving every one of them!
November 30, 2010
It perked me up. Put me in a better mood. I liked the characters and their interactions.
STORY BRIEF:
Chloe loved being a student but changed and then dropped out of school because her peers made fun of her. Johnny was one of them. On a bet, he asked her for a date while others were hiding nearby. They laughed when she said yes. It’s ten years later. Chloe has a nice looking boyfriend Will. She has a job as a limo driver, and she’s good at it. Johnny became a famous artist. He returns to town for his father’s funeral. He decides to stay until he can sell his father’s home. Chloe has feelings for Johnny, but she hides them. Other women desire Johnny as well.
Chloe’s neighbor and good friend Ash has a brilliant and funny mind. He is overweight and not good looking. He has a breakfast radio talk show. One woman falls in love with him at first sight, but Ash has eyes for another who does not feel the same.
Chloe’s sister Abby discovers her husband has an eighteen year old child she never knew about. This snowballs into various things happening.
REVIEWER’S OPINION:
I finished reading a different book Friday night which depressed me. On Saturday I was still depressed. I wanted to read something to cheer me up. I picked this - my first Jill Mansell book. It worked. By Sunday I was in a happier mood most of the day (when not in the middle of chores of drudgery). And I noticed more teasing and fun with my kids. Do I give credit to the book? Yes it gets credit for my happier mood; I’m not sure about credit for relating to my kids. But maybe.
In most romance novels (which I love), we see a love relationship developing, usually seeing inside the heads of both characters – watching them develop feelings. This does not happen here. Don’t expect it. This is chick lit. We are inside the head of Chloe who desires Johnny, but we don’t know who or if Johnny desires anyone. And that’s ok. I enjoyed being in Chloe’s world with her friends. I enjoyed their interactions. We are also inside other characters’ heads. Some chick lit books have either annoyed me or not interested me enough to try more of those authors. Not so here. I want to read more of this author. A few times a situation was predictable or I had heard it before, but that was ok. I didn’t mind. I also enjoy the fact that the author is British. Some of her word choices are fun for a change.
Romance lovers: there are some happy romantic endings for different characters.
I enjoyed and kept thinking about Georgia (beautiful) who was attracted to Ash (brilliant funny mind but overweight and not good looking). On page 177 Georgia says “That is my idea of the perfect man…personality is way more important than looks. Give me someone who can entertain me every time. Trust me, I’ve been out with my share of pretty boys. You soon get bored with looking at them, gazing into their beautiful eyes, and admiring their perfect…I don’t know, teeth and stuff. If they don’t have what it takes to make me laugh, I’m not interested. It’d be like going out with a poster on your wall.”
I liked Chloe’s personality and her choices. She yearned for Johnny and was hurting at times, but she controlled it, didn’t show it, and acted the good friend.
READING THE ENDING EARLY:
When I was 60% through the book, I went to the end and read the last seven pages. I’m glad I did. I found that I could relax and enjoy the story more. It allowed me to pay more attention to certain subtleties and better imagine what might have been going on in Johnny’s mind. I liked the book better when I knew the ending.
Occasionally I read the endings of books early on, so that might be a predictor as to whether or not this is for you. If it is, don’t wait until the middle of the book. Read the end sooner than I did.
CAUTION SPOILER:
One part was illogical to me. Johnny claimed he moved back to town to be near Chloe. So why didn’t he say or do something or ask Chloe out? She did have a boyfriend for a short while, but later she didn’t. Possibly because work and things kept interfering? Although this might be a weakness, I’ll accept it because the rest of the story was fun and worthwhile.
DATA:
Story length: 412 pages. Swearing language: strong, including religious swear words. Sexual language and content: none. Setting: current day mostly Channings Hill, England. Copyright: 2010. Genre: chick lit.
STORY BRIEF:
Chloe loved being a student but changed and then dropped out of school because her peers made fun of her. Johnny was one of them. On a bet, he asked her for a date while others were hiding nearby. They laughed when she said yes. It’s ten years later. Chloe has a nice looking boyfriend Will. She has a job as a limo driver, and she’s good at it. Johnny became a famous artist. He returns to town for his father’s funeral. He decides to stay until he can sell his father’s home. Chloe has feelings for Johnny, but she hides them. Other women desire Johnny as well.
Chloe’s neighbor and good friend Ash has a brilliant and funny mind. He is overweight and not good looking. He has a breakfast radio talk show. One woman falls in love with him at first sight, but Ash has eyes for another who does not feel the same.
Chloe’s sister Abby discovers her husband has an eighteen year old child she never knew about. This snowballs into various things happening.
REVIEWER’S OPINION:
I finished reading a different book Friday night which depressed me. On Saturday I was still depressed. I wanted to read something to cheer me up. I picked this - my first Jill Mansell book. It worked. By Sunday I was in a happier mood most of the day (when not in the middle of chores of drudgery). And I noticed more teasing and fun with my kids. Do I give credit to the book? Yes it gets credit for my happier mood; I’m not sure about credit for relating to my kids. But maybe.
In most romance novels (which I love), we see a love relationship developing, usually seeing inside the heads of both characters – watching them develop feelings. This does not happen here. Don’t expect it. This is chick lit. We are inside the head of Chloe who desires Johnny, but we don’t know who or if Johnny desires anyone. And that’s ok. I enjoyed being in Chloe’s world with her friends. I enjoyed their interactions. We are also inside other characters’ heads. Some chick lit books have either annoyed me or not interested me enough to try more of those authors. Not so here. I want to read more of this author. A few times a situation was predictable or I had heard it before, but that was ok. I didn’t mind. I also enjoy the fact that the author is British. Some of her word choices are fun for a change.
Romance lovers: there are some happy romantic endings for different characters.
I enjoyed and kept thinking about Georgia (beautiful) who was attracted to Ash (brilliant funny mind but overweight and not good looking). On page 177 Georgia says “That is my idea of the perfect man…personality is way more important than looks. Give me someone who can entertain me every time. Trust me, I’ve been out with my share of pretty boys. You soon get bored with looking at them, gazing into their beautiful eyes, and admiring their perfect…I don’t know, teeth and stuff. If they don’t have what it takes to make me laugh, I’m not interested. It’d be like going out with a poster on your wall.”
I liked Chloe’s personality and her choices. She yearned for Johnny and was hurting at times, but she controlled it, didn’t show it, and acted the good friend.
READING THE ENDING EARLY:
When I was 60% through the book, I went to the end and read the last seven pages. I’m glad I did. I found that I could relax and enjoy the story more. It allowed me to pay more attention to certain subtleties and better imagine what might have been going on in Johnny’s mind. I liked the book better when I knew the ending.
Occasionally I read the endings of books early on, so that might be a predictor as to whether or not this is for you. If it is, don’t wait until the middle of the book. Read the end sooner than I did.
CAUTION SPOILER:
One part was illogical to me. Johnny claimed he moved back to town to be near Chloe. So why didn’t he say or do something or ask Chloe out? She did have a boyfriend for a short while, but later she didn’t. Possibly because work and things kept interfering? Although this might be a weakness, I’ll accept it because the rest of the story was fun and worthwhile.
DATA:
Story length: 412 pages. Swearing language: strong, including religious swear words. Sexual language and content: none. Setting: current day mostly Channings Hill, England. Copyright: 2010. Genre: chick lit.
June 17, 2020
I used to be a Jill Mansell fan. I adored her books and the warmth I felt because of them. Since I could do with some warmth, I picked up a book by Jill Mansell after quite some time. And, boy, am I disappointed.
1. TRANSPHOBIA.
No, you can make jokes about sex change operations/ "men" dressing up in women's clothes and pass it off as humour. It's not funny. It's not humour.
2. Plot.
Back when I was a fan, what I absolutely adored about Jill Mansell's books were the resolutions. They would fit so perfectly, everyone would be paired off.
In this book, Ash and Fia make zero sense. For most of the book, Fia has a massive crush on Johnny and then suddenly, she realises that she loves Ash? Too abrupt. The change in her feelings should have been slightly more gradual. What happened was mostly just confusing.
Also, Ash taking Fia out through deception is uncool. Pls no.
3. Characters, especially women characters.
They're funny, yes. They're goofy, agreed. But why does Mansell write her protagonists as people with no sense of rationality? I'm not saying that the characters shouldn't feel any emotions, no. Ideally, emotions and rationality would co-exist, but here, the characters, despite being adults, jump to conclusions without thinking things through. This stereotypical representation of women has proven to be so harmful, we are all well-aware of that by now.
What really astounded me was that 'Take a Chance on Me' was published in 2010. That's exactly a decade ago. I'm sure there was enough discourse around transphobia, feminism, etc then. (We do find papers and research.)
Just. Nope. Don't.
1. TRANSPHOBIA.
No, you can make jokes about sex change operations/ "men" dressing up in women's clothes and pass it off as humour. It's not funny. It's not humour.
2. Plot.
Back when I was a fan, what I absolutely adored about Jill Mansell's books were the resolutions. They would fit so perfectly, everyone would be paired off.
In this book, Ash and Fia make zero sense. For most of the book, Fia has a massive crush on Johnny and then suddenly, she realises that she loves Ash? Too abrupt. The change in her feelings should have been slightly more gradual. What happened was mostly just confusing.
Also, Ash taking Fia out through deception is uncool. Pls no.
3. Characters, especially women characters.
They're funny, yes. They're goofy, agreed. But why does Mansell write her protagonists as people with no sense of rationality? I'm not saying that the characters shouldn't feel any emotions, no. Ideally, emotions and rationality would co-exist, but here, the characters, despite being adults, jump to conclusions without thinking things through. This stereotypical representation of women has proven to be so harmful, we are all well-aware of that by now.
What really astounded me was that 'Take a Chance on Me' was published in 2010. That's exactly a decade ago. I'm sure there was enough discourse around transphobia, feminism, etc then. (We do find papers and research.)
Just. Nope. Don't.
April 9, 2010
I really enjoyed this light hearted story, told with Jill Mansell's usual eye for detail and quirky sense of humour. Quite sad and thought provoking in places, laugh out loud funny in others and with a delicious twist or two. There's the usual wealth of characters that we have come to expect, from the sweet to the oddly eccentric. The story drew me in from the first page - it will be a great holiday read once it's out in paperback, but well worth reading in hardback as it's in that easy to carry small format.
December 12, 2013
terrible is too harsh but not good doesn't pack enough punch. mediocre. i search out british chick lit because it is normally funny and delightfully british. this book is merely british. during the first section, the protagonist mentions the movie "love actually" and i think she was trying to give the impression that this book would be very similar with multiple storylines and lots of people with chemistry and humor trying to work things out. not funny, not interesting. no chemistry. written like a giant rough draft. don't bother.
March 12, 2022
opnieuw een boek dat ik herlees en opnieuw herlees
jill mansell lees je en blijf je lezen.
elk boek opnieuw zit er alles in wat er in moet zitten.
rustig zitten en lezen maar I love it
jill mansell lees je en blijf je lezen.
elk boek opnieuw zit er alles in wat er in moet zitten.
rustig zitten en lezen maar I love it
February 7, 2019
I listened to this on audiobook.
Oh my words, I have absolutely adored every minute of this story, it has made me giggle quite a bit. The story was delightful and I loved getting to know all of the characters, although I did have my doubts about Georgia, didn't decide until the very end whether I liked her or not.
I loved this story so much that i didn't want it to end.
I have now read all of Jill Mansell books until she brings a new one out, that is just how much I love her books.
Oh my words, I have absolutely adored every minute of this story, it has made me giggle quite a bit. The story was delightful and I loved getting to know all of the characters, although I did have my doubts about Georgia, didn't decide until the very end whether I liked her or not.
I loved this story so much that i didn't want it to end.
I have now read all of Jill Mansell books until she brings a new one out, that is just how much I love her books.
February 18, 2010
Cleo Quinn doesn’t have the greatest track record when it comes to men, but now Will’s come along. Handsome and attentive, he could be her Mr Right. Things are definitely looking up for Cleo… apart from one small problem with a rather large ego. Johnny LaVenture, sculptor extraordinaire and her personal childhood nemesis, is back in Channing’s Hill and tormenting her as if he’d never been away. Meanwhile Cleo’s sister Abbie has a problem of her own – husband Tom has become distant and withdrawn, and she’s determined to find out why. But will the shocking truth mean the end of their idyllically happy marriage? The sisters are about to discover that the past can come back to haunt you, and that love can flourish in the unlikeliest of places.
I’ve really gotten into Jill Mansell’s books when I first picked her novel “Rumour Has It” a couple of years ago, and since then I have really looked forward to her annual release. The past 2 books by Jill I have thoroughly enjoyed, so Mansell has set a bit of an expectation for herself in my opinion so I always hope that with each book she is going to get better and better, and luckily for me she has delivered once more! We got sent the cover by the publishers a few months ago, and since then I’ve been really excited to read this book, and when a copy landed on my doorstep a few weeks ago I immediately set to reading it because I just couldn’t wait!
Although the main story of the book follows young Cleo in her quest for love, I actually found that I was far more hooked by the story of her sister Abbie and the relationship between her and husband Tom. The story begins quite innocently with the pair desperate for their own child, but it moves quite fast into something far more shocking and I didn’t expect at all the twist that comes along. I credit Mansell’s writing for keeping you in one train of thought and suddenly shocking you with something else, and the new twist develops slowly through the book and made for very interesting reading.
As usual, Mansell’s female characters are very believable and likeable, and that’s really the secret to her success. You can believe that each of these women are real, and that their story is one that you might actually hear about rather than something completely unbelievable, and I enjoy reading a more realistic story. Mansell moves along Cleo’s story at a good pace, with the beginning with all the action happening quite quickly and the rest developing throughout the book and I think it came to the end in a timely manner, and didnt feel too rushed or slow which was great. Yes, its rather predictable but I didn’t care, I just enjoyed the read.
I don’t usually comment too much on the setting of a book, but I really enjoyed the way this book was set in a quaint village that keeps itself to itself, because it allowed for not too many characters to become involved and was therefore able to focus itself much more on the characters that really counted. Mansell writes in such a way that you can picture the places in your mind as you read them from Cleo’s little home to the fab pub that pops up regularly. It creates a proper little world for the book and I really enjoyed this.
If you’ve read and loved Jill Mansell’s books before, then you’re going to love this one too. It sticks to what Jill knows works for her and that is great characters, an absorbing story and a great setting, all of which work together to create a fab read that you won’t want to put down. I thought the cover was a little wishy washy at first and doesn’t necessarily relate to what is found inside the book, but then you’ll just be pleasantly surprised by the great twists along the way. Abbie’s story has some darker hints to it than you might expect but I thoroughly enjoyed this part of the book and was so excited to see how it all ends. A brilliant read.
I’ve really gotten into Jill Mansell’s books when I first picked her novel “Rumour Has It” a couple of years ago, and since then I have really looked forward to her annual release. The past 2 books by Jill I have thoroughly enjoyed, so Mansell has set a bit of an expectation for herself in my opinion so I always hope that with each book she is going to get better and better, and luckily for me she has delivered once more! We got sent the cover by the publishers a few months ago, and since then I’ve been really excited to read this book, and when a copy landed on my doorstep a few weeks ago I immediately set to reading it because I just couldn’t wait!
Although the main story of the book follows young Cleo in her quest for love, I actually found that I was far more hooked by the story of her sister Abbie and the relationship between her and husband Tom. The story begins quite innocently with the pair desperate for their own child, but it moves quite fast into something far more shocking and I didn’t expect at all the twist that comes along. I credit Mansell’s writing for keeping you in one train of thought and suddenly shocking you with something else, and the new twist develops slowly through the book and made for very interesting reading.
As usual, Mansell’s female characters are very believable and likeable, and that’s really the secret to her success. You can believe that each of these women are real, and that their story is one that you might actually hear about rather than something completely unbelievable, and I enjoy reading a more realistic story. Mansell moves along Cleo’s story at a good pace, with the beginning with all the action happening quite quickly and the rest developing throughout the book and I think it came to the end in a timely manner, and didnt feel too rushed or slow which was great. Yes, its rather predictable but I didn’t care, I just enjoyed the read.
I don’t usually comment too much on the setting of a book, but I really enjoyed the way this book was set in a quaint village that keeps itself to itself, because it allowed for not too many characters to become involved and was therefore able to focus itself much more on the characters that really counted. Mansell writes in such a way that you can picture the places in your mind as you read them from Cleo’s little home to the fab pub that pops up regularly. It creates a proper little world for the book and I really enjoyed this.
If you’ve read and loved Jill Mansell’s books before, then you’re going to love this one too. It sticks to what Jill knows works for her and that is great characters, an absorbing story and a great setting, all of which work together to create a fab read that you won’t want to put down. I thought the cover was a little wishy washy at first and doesn’t necessarily relate to what is found inside the book, but then you’ll just be pleasantly surprised by the great twists along the way. Abbie’s story has some darker hints to it than you might expect but I thoroughly enjoyed this part of the book and was so excited to see how it all ends. A brilliant read.
October 20, 2010
3 Reasons Review
I am trying out a new review format today called "3 Reasons Review". Staci from Life in the Thumb and myself have chatted about coming up with a simple review format. Something with just the basics of what readers would want to know about a book. Some books do not require an in-depth analysis, yet as reviewers we still strive to get the important bits across to our readers. Therefore, the 3 Reasons, came from what Staci and I think are most important. Didn't come up with a fancy button yet, but working on it.
(If you have suggestions about this new format, please let me know.)
1.) Reasons you chose this book
I accepted this book to review because I had previously reviewed one of Mansell's books, and loved it. British chic-lit is definitely for me so when the opportunity for this one came up, I jumped at it.
2.) Reasons you liked or disliked this book
I loved this book! All of the characters are adorable and quirky, and I like the crazy situations or occurrences they always seem to find themselves in.
Cleo is the main character. She works as a limo driver, and can't seem to find the right guy. Cleo is not looking for anything fancy, but someone who is kind, honest, and loving. Not like Johnny who lives across the way from her, and teased her mercilessly growing up.
Johnny grew up with Cleo, and has a become a successful artist. Johnny is easy on the eyes, possess a smart ass mouth, and has come to realize he may have feelings for Cleo after all this time. If only she would notice the real him.
Ash lives next door to Cleo, and is her best friend. Ash is also hoping to settle down soon, and thinks he is found the one in Fia. Unlike his outgoing zany radio personality side, when Ash sees Fia he is so shy and tongue tied that he can't bring himself to even speak to Fia properly. Ash's view of himself (he has some meat on his bones) doesn't help his situation either. How will he get Fia to go out with him?
Fia is a new comer to Channings Hill. Her heart and trust have recently been stomped on, so Fia is hoping for a fresh start. If only Johnny would notice her....
So since this one, likes that one, but that one doesn't know, and likes so and so instead, you can see how the reader is in for some funny moments. Everyone one in this novel needs to take a chance on someone, or else they may lose out on a great love affair.
The only aspect I didn't like was Cleo's sister Abbie. There are aspects of her character that I disliked from the beginning, however her inability to speak up for herself grated my nerves. When her husband accusing Abbie of inappropriate behavior due to a misunderstanding, Abbie allows him to yell at her and walk away, never defending herself, and explaining the situation. Get a word in edgewise girl! If you have been married that long then you should know better. I pretty much didn't like Abbie's plot line in the story, however there are elements of it that are required for the other characters. So I accepted it and moved on.
3.) Reasons you are recommending this book
I would recommend this book highly, especially if you are looking for something to help you escape the grind of daily life. This book is fun, relaxing, and makes me want to visit a small English village. It is escapism at it's best, and I plan on reading the rest of Mansell's work in the future.
I am trying out a new review format today called "3 Reasons Review". Staci from Life in the Thumb and myself have chatted about coming up with a simple review format. Something with just the basics of what readers would want to know about a book. Some books do not require an in-depth analysis, yet as reviewers we still strive to get the important bits across to our readers. Therefore, the 3 Reasons, came from what Staci and I think are most important. Didn't come up with a fancy button yet, but working on it.
(If you have suggestions about this new format, please let me know.)
1.) Reasons you chose this book
I accepted this book to review because I had previously reviewed one of Mansell's books, and loved it. British chic-lit is definitely for me so when the opportunity for this one came up, I jumped at it.
2.) Reasons you liked or disliked this book
I loved this book! All of the characters are adorable and quirky, and I like the crazy situations or occurrences they always seem to find themselves in.
Cleo is the main character. She works as a limo driver, and can't seem to find the right guy. Cleo is not looking for anything fancy, but someone who is kind, honest, and loving. Not like Johnny who lives across the way from her, and teased her mercilessly growing up.
Johnny grew up with Cleo, and has a become a successful artist. Johnny is easy on the eyes, possess a smart ass mouth, and has come to realize he may have feelings for Cleo after all this time. If only she would notice the real him.
Ash lives next door to Cleo, and is her best friend. Ash is also hoping to settle down soon, and thinks he is found the one in Fia. Unlike his outgoing zany radio personality side, when Ash sees Fia he is so shy and tongue tied that he can't bring himself to even speak to Fia properly. Ash's view of himself (he has some meat on his bones) doesn't help his situation either. How will he get Fia to go out with him?
Fia is a new comer to Channings Hill. Her heart and trust have recently been stomped on, so Fia is hoping for a fresh start. If only Johnny would notice her....
So since this one, likes that one, but that one doesn't know, and likes so and so instead, you can see how the reader is in for some funny moments. Everyone one in this novel needs to take a chance on someone, or else they may lose out on a great love affair.
The only aspect I didn't like was Cleo's sister Abbie. There are aspects of her character that I disliked from the beginning, however her inability to speak up for herself grated my nerves. When her husband accusing Abbie of inappropriate behavior due to a misunderstanding, Abbie allows him to yell at her and walk away, never defending herself, and explaining the situation. Get a word in edgewise girl! If you have been married that long then you should know better. I pretty much didn't like Abbie's plot line in the story, however there are elements of it that are required for the other characters. So I accepted it and moved on.
3.) Reasons you are recommending this book
I would recommend this book highly, especially if you are looking for something to help you escape the grind of daily life. This book is fun, relaxing, and makes me want to visit a small English village. It is escapism at it's best, and I plan on reading the rest of Mansell's work in the future.
December 23, 2015
Na het bekijken van een melige kerstfilm was ik volledig in de stemming voor wat chicklit. Normaal vergrijp ik me nooit aan dat soort boeken, maar nu had ik daar wel eens zin in.
Fans van het genre beweren soms dat ze zich gemakkelijk met één van de personages kunnen vereenzelvigen. Romantische verhalen zouden in zekere mate een hoog herkenbaarheidsgehalte hebben (met dat verschil dat ze in tegenstelling tot gebeurtenissen in het echte leven altijd een happy end hebben). Dat wilde ik uittesten. Ik ben tot de conclusie gekomen dat de plot van dit boek bijna niet onwaarschijnlijker kon. Zet jullie schrap.
***spoilers***
Cleo ontdekt na een relatie van 3 maanden dat haar vriend Will eigenlijk getrouwd is en 2 kinderen heeft. Begrijpelijkerwijze loopt zowel de relatie van Cleo als het huwelijk van Will op de klippen. Ik snap dat dit voor sommigen herkenbaar is.
Fia, de ex-vrouw van Will komt uitgerekend in hetzelfde dorp wonen en werken als Cleo en de 2 geraken als het ware bevriend. De buurman van Cleo, een radiopresentator die ongelooflijk populair is bij de vrouwtjes totdat ze hem in levenden lijve zien, wordt meteen verliefd op Fia, maar verlegen als hij is, durft hij het haar niet te zeggen...
Na het overlijden van zijn vader komt de jeugdvijand van Cleo, Johnny, ook weer in het stadje wonen. Cleo ontdekt geleidelijk aan dat Johnny eigenlijk niet zo'n slecht karakter heeft als ze altijd gedacht had. De aandachtige lezer voelt dan al waar die sympathie zal in uitmonden... Love is in the air...
Alsof dit nog niet genoeg liefdesintriges zijn, hebben we ook nog de zus van Cleo, Abbie en haar man Tom. Zij konden geen kinderen krijgen en hadden jaren geleden gekozen voor een draagmoeder. Jammer genoeg was de poging mislukt... Althans, dat dachten ze. Plots staat de dochter van Tom, Georgia, voor de deur omdat ze absoluut haar vader wil leren kennen. Dat zorgt voor nogal wat spanningen in het huishouden van Abbie en Tom. Op een bepaald moment wordt de situatie zelfs onhoudbaar en trekt Abbie een tijdje bij haar zus in. Ondertussen is de draagmoeder Patty opgedoken en logeert ze bij Tom en Georgia. Zij duikt en passant met Will in de koffer.
Kunnen jullie nog volgen?
Ongelooflijk toch allemaal... Natuurlijk is iedereen, zoals dat hoort in dit soort verhalen, heel gelukkig op het einde. Een volmaakt eigentijds sprookje als het ware...
Heb ik hiervan genoten? Eigenlijk wel ja. Het is vlot geschreven, met de nodige humor. Je wordt best wel vrolijk van dit soort lectuur. Is het om duimen en vingers van af te likken? Zeker niet, maar ik heb het wel weten te smaken... Toch zal het wellicht nog tot de volgende romantische kerstfilm duren vooraleer ik me nog eens waag aan een dergelijk feelgood boek...
Fans van het genre beweren soms dat ze zich gemakkelijk met één van de personages kunnen vereenzelvigen. Romantische verhalen zouden in zekere mate een hoog herkenbaarheidsgehalte hebben (met dat verschil dat ze in tegenstelling tot gebeurtenissen in het echte leven altijd een happy end hebben). Dat wilde ik uittesten. Ik ben tot de conclusie gekomen dat de plot van dit boek bijna niet onwaarschijnlijker kon. Zet jullie schrap.
***spoilers***
Cleo ontdekt na een relatie van 3 maanden dat haar vriend Will eigenlijk getrouwd is en 2 kinderen heeft. Begrijpelijkerwijze loopt zowel de relatie van Cleo als het huwelijk van Will op de klippen. Ik snap dat dit voor sommigen herkenbaar is.
Fia, de ex-vrouw van Will komt uitgerekend in hetzelfde dorp wonen en werken als Cleo en de 2 geraken als het ware bevriend. De buurman van Cleo, een radiopresentator die ongelooflijk populair is bij de vrouwtjes totdat ze hem in levenden lijve zien, wordt meteen verliefd op Fia, maar verlegen als hij is, durft hij het haar niet te zeggen...
Na het overlijden van zijn vader komt de jeugdvijand van Cleo, Johnny, ook weer in het stadje wonen. Cleo ontdekt geleidelijk aan dat Johnny eigenlijk niet zo'n slecht karakter heeft als ze altijd gedacht had. De aandachtige lezer voelt dan al waar die sympathie zal in uitmonden... Love is in the air...
Alsof dit nog niet genoeg liefdesintriges zijn, hebben we ook nog de zus van Cleo, Abbie en haar man Tom. Zij konden geen kinderen krijgen en hadden jaren geleden gekozen voor een draagmoeder. Jammer genoeg was de poging mislukt... Althans, dat dachten ze. Plots staat de dochter van Tom, Georgia, voor de deur omdat ze absoluut haar vader wil leren kennen. Dat zorgt voor nogal wat spanningen in het huishouden van Abbie en Tom. Op een bepaald moment wordt de situatie zelfs onhoudbaar en trekt Abbie een tijdje bij haar zus in. Ondertussen is de draagmoeder Patty opgedoken en logeert ze bij Tom en Georgia. Zij duikt en passant met Will in de koffer.
Kunnen jullie nog volgen?
Ongelooflijk toch allemaal... Natuurlijk is iedereen, zoals dat hoort in dit soort verhalen, heel gelukkig op het einde. Een volmaakt eigentijds sprookje als het ware...
Heb ik hiervan genoten? Eigenlijk wel ja. Het is vlot geschreven, met de nodige humor. Je wordt best wel vrolijk van dit soort lectuur. Is het om duimen en vingers van af te likken? Zeker niet, maar ik heb het wel weten te smaken... Toch zal het wellicht nog tot de volgende romantische kerstfilm duren vooraleer ik me nog eens waag aan een dergelijk feelgood boek...
February 9, 2010
This book follows the lives of two sisters, Cleo and Abbie. Cleo believes she has found her Mister Right in the form of Will Newman, but is distracted by the charms of Johnny LaVenture (despite him being her personal childhood nemesis). Abbie is concerned about her husband Tom, who has become moody and sullen - when she finds out the reason her life is turned upside down...
Jill Mansell is onto her 21st novel with Take a Chance on Me, and follows a tried and trusted formula in this book. There are no real shocks: in the end, the right people end up together and there is a happy ever after. The difference in Mansell's books from others in the genre is the way in which she reaches the destination - sure, the book is frothy and there are few deep messages, but it flows easily with lovely touches of humour.
The sweetest storyline belonged to Fia and Ash. Mansell did sort of thrust the idea of not judging a book by its cover front and centre, but it was pleasant to read about a gent in one of these types of books who is not completely buff and gorgeous!
I particularly enjoyed Abbie's story as well - Mansell got right to the heart of the way a woman might feel when told she is unable to have children. Abbie's panic and pain was well-written - although her solution to the problem was more far-fetched.
In fact, that is the biggest issue with this book: you need to suspend your disbelief a fair bit! It isn't a huge problem, but you do find yourself thinking 'That would NEVER happen!' about some of the happenings.
My summary is that this book, as with much of Jill Mansell's work, is perfect fodder for a lazy bath with lots of bubbles and a glass of wine. Enjoyable, but never memorable.
Jill Mansell is onto her 21st novel with Take a Chance on Me, and follows a tried and trusted formula in this book. There are no real shocks: in the end, the right people end up together and there is a happy ever after. The difference in Mansell's books from others in the genre is the way in which she reaches the destination - sure, the book is frothy and there are few deep messages, but it flows easily with lovely touches of humour.
The sweetest storyline belonged to Fia and Ash. Mansell did sort of thrust the idea of not judging a book by its cover front and centre, but it was pleasant to read about a gent in one of these types of books who is not completely buff and gorgeous!
I particularly enjoyed Abbie's story as well - Mansell got right to the heart of the way a woman might feel when told she is unable to have children. Abbie's panic and pain was well-written - although her solution to the problem was more far-fetched.
In fact, that is the biggest issue with this book: you need to suspend your disbelief a fair bit! It isn't a huge problem, but you do find yourself thinking 'That would NEVER happen!' about some of the happenings.
My summary is that this book, as with much of Jill Mansell's work, is perfect fodder for a lazy bath with lots of bubbles and a glass of wine. Enjoyable, but never memorable.
March 14, 2011
It's always delightful to have a book prove your negative assumptions wrong. Mansell is not an author I had read before, nor did I know of anyone else who had read her books. Picking this book up was strictly an impulse grab at the library. The cover attracted my attention, the synopsis interested me, and the review quotes solidified my decision.
However, once I started reading it, I thought, "Oh jeez. It's going to be one of those books." My assumption was based on the first few chapters, and it seemed as if it was going to be one of those romances where the 2 main characters are so completely antagonistic to each other that they might as well be enemies. More to the point, in those types of stories, it's completely unbelievable when they confess their "true" feelings at the end.
Well, as I said, I was completely thrilled to have my assumptions soundly dashed. Mansell does a phenomenal job of creating the story. She provides you with the past and the present without all the disjointed "jumping" a reader can sometimes experience.
My only wish would've been if Mansell could have written these characters as a series. I so thoroughly enjoyed my time with them, and she writes them so well, that I would love if I could have future visits with them all.
Hmm...maybe another book for Georgia?
However, once I started reading it, I thought, "Oh jeez. It's going to be one of those books." My assumption was based on the first few chapters, and it seemed as if it was going to be one of those romances where the 2 main characters are so completely antagonistic to each other that they might as well be enemies. More to the point, in those types of stories, it's completely unbelievable when they confess their "true" feelings at the end.
Well, as I said, I was completely thrilled to have my assumptions soundly dashed. Mansell does a phenomenal job of creating the story. She provides you with the past and the present without all the disjointed "jumping" a reader can sometimes experience.
My only wish would've been if Mansell could have written these characters as a series. I so thoroughly enjoyed my time with them, and she writes them so well, that I would love if I could have future visits with them all.
Hmm...maybe another book for Georgia?
July 18, 2024
*NO TBR PROMPT- PULLED COVER IMAGE OUT OF TBR JAR*
This was really cute lol. Now, since I've had this book for a full year, I will admit that when I looked at it and the other one I own by Jill, on my bookshelf, I had this feeling that the books weren't going to be good, and that made me not want to pick them up anymore. Which I will say has never happened to me before. That's why I was glad when I pulled this book out of my jar, it definitely proved me wrong. At some moments though, the writing did make me feel like I should've read a previous book by her to get all the details, but in reality I had to wait a few more paragraphs to find out the full story lol. There were also plenty of times where the pov's would change out of nowhere. Literally there could be someone inner monologuing or something and then the next sentence would be from a different pov! And there were about 4 to 5 pov's! But other than that I absolutely loved this story, the first half was set during the Christmas time but after that it, it was over lol. The relationships between family, friends and couples, were demonstrated wonderfully especially when it came down to the hard times. It was hilarious and clean mind you! I can't wait to read her other book and then maybe, depending if that one is good, I'll pick up more by Jill!
This was really cute lol. Now, since I've had this book for a full year, I will admit that when I looked at it and the other one I own by Jill, on my bookshelf, I had this feeling that the books weren't going to be good, and that made me not want to pick them up anymore. Which I will say has never happened to me before. That's why I was glad when I pulled this book out of my jar, it definitely proved me wrong. At some moments though, the writing did make me feel like I should've read a previous book by her to get all the details, but in reality I had to wait a few more paragraphs to find out the full story lol. There were also plenty of times where the pov's would change out of nowhere. Literally there could be someone inner monologuing or something and then the next sentence would be from a different pov! And there were about 4 to 5 pov's! But other than that I absolutely loved this story, the first half was set during the Christmas time but after that it, it was over lol. The relationships between family, friends and couples, were demonstrated wonderfully especially when it came down to the hard times. It was hilarious and clean mind you! I can't wait to read her other book and then maybe, depending if that one is good, I'll pick up more by Jill!
June 12, 2012
I read a lot of Jill Mansell's books in my early twenties and always found them warm, engaging, and fun reads. This book was no exception.
I had a hard time getting to grips with the heroine's story. Although I don't mind books where there is more than one character's story involved, I felt in this case there is too much of the book devoted to a few too many character's stories.
All the character's lives/stories are intertwined but I feel that it would have been nicer if the focus had just been on Cleo and Abbie's stories - Abbie's story is wonderful, and beautifully written.
In my opinion there was a little too much jumping around, however the storytelling is flawless. This is a book that instantly grabs you and sucks you in, and it is very enjoyable.
There is lots of fun and quirkiness that makes this style of British 'Chick-Lit' magical, and, above all, the story and the characters are believable.
A good, solid read that will while away a few hours. Not a keeper for me though.
Originally posted at http://everyday-is-the-same.blogspot....
I had a hard time getting to grips with the heroine's story. Although I don't mind books where there is more than one character's story involved, I felt in this case there is too much of the book devoted to a few too many character's stories.
All the character's lives/stories are intertwined but I feel that it would have been nicer if the focus had just been on Cleo and Abbie's stories - Abbie's story is wonderful, and beautifully written.
In my opinion there was a little too much jumping around, however the storytelling is flawless. This is a book that instantly grabs you and sucks you in, and it is very enjoyable.
There is lots of fun and quirkiness that makes this style of British 'Chick-Lit' magical, and, above all, the story and the characters are believable.
A good, solid read that will while away a few hours. Not a keeper for me though.
Originally posted at http://everyday-is-the-same.blogspot....
October 25, 2016
I enjoyed this book in the sense that it was a mindless light easy read. I liked Cleo, the main character, and found her to be relatable. My big issue though is that this book is too predicable and everything is wrapped up too perfectly in the end. The last scene with Johnny and Cleo really had me rolling my eyes because it was so silly and unrealistic, and a love confession like that would never happen in real life. If you're a hopeless romantic who thinks life is like the movies then you'll enjoy this.
August 21, 2014
A cute, relaxing, funny book. Some would call it a cliché, but I really liked it. Perfect for summer.
May 9, 2014
The book was cute and the ending was adorable, however I found myself skipping multiple chapters because they seemed irrelevant. Also the writing was not great. Don't read it unless you are bored.
March 9, 2016
Simpatična, humoristična ljubavna priča koja me zaokupila svojom poletnošću i jednostavnošću! Baš sam uživala!
May 30, 2016
Not bad for a chick lit. Only for entertainment purposes.
October 12, 2019
It's a slow-burner but definitely worth sticking with!
There are a lot of characters to get to grips with in this gorgeous little village. But once you have settled who is who and how they relate you can enjoy this warm, fun & engaging read.
You'll soon get wrapped up in their lives and have your fingers-crossed they all get their happy endings. Ash was the standout character for me instantly lovable, funny and oh so nervous when he isn't on the radio!
I love Jill Mansell so had high expectations and whilst I enjoyed this novel, i didn't think it was as brilliant as her others so 4🌟🌟🌟🌟
There are a lot of characters to get to grips with in this gorgeous little village. But once you have settled who is who and how they relate you can enjoy this warm, fun & engaging read.
You'll soon get wrapped up in their lives and have your fingers-crossed they all get their happy endings. Ash was the standout character for me instantly lovable, funny and oh so nervous when he isn't on the radio!
I love Jill Mansell so had high expectations and whilst I enjoyed this novel, i didn't think it was as brilliant as her others so 4🌟🌟🌟🌟
December 3, 2021
The writing and story is immersive. I really enjoyed it, except for a few things. I feel like Johnny’s character has everything so easy for him. And for someone bullied, Cleo seemed so keen. I seriously hoped that Cleo would make Johnny realize the implications of his and his friend’s bullying. Maybe see him repent for it some more and make things right. I think that would make their story more interesting.
February 1, 2019
I like Jill Mansell's writing because I know even when it's sad, things will turn out OK.
April 10, 2020
Not my favorite Jill Mansell book, but I still loved it. There’s some light cheating, which I hate. But I liked the ending and it all wrapped up well!!
October 4, 2022
3.5 ⭐️ pleasant enough read. Took a while to get my head around all the different characters but once I did I enjoyed it.
June 15, 2024
Easy chick lit read!
March 8, 2025
Jill Mansell has a very entertaining, humorous way of writing!
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