Cute but too drawn out, some good life pondering though ( )

This is a complex story of lives intertwining over decades. The characters are fabulous! ( )

This is the second book I have read by Jewell, and I was again entertained by her well written characters. Vince and Joy's story could echo that of any one of us who experienced a holiday romance at a seaside resort in the UK during our teens. The meandering journey of the pair through life, with fleeting opportunities to fulfil their destiny not seized, was an entertaining read. Chick lit it was not - rather a thoughtful journey through the lives of two soul mates who missed their opportunities for early happiness. ( )

I picked up Lisa Jewell after reading rave reviews about her previous books. This title was irrestible cause it reminded me of a similar book I had read of Cecilia Ahern, "Where rainbows end" and I was curious to see how Jewell tackled it.

It is fascinating how two authors handle the same theme in different ways. Ahern's book is about a series of notes, text messages and emails between two childhood friends who love each other but at each point they try to say it, fate intervenes, making them go different ways.

On the other hand, Jewell uses the same boy meets girl-falls love-fails to say it-and years later they meet-and-yet they do not confess their love-make different choices-concept using the flash back method. It is a very enjoyable read and though sugary at times, it does strikes a chord with the reader.

The Gist:

Nineteen-year-old Vince meets Joy at a caravan park and they lose their virginity to each other. However, after what is a subliminal experience, they part without saying goodbye. A lot happens over the intervening years such as disasterous relationships and family upheaveal till they finally meet at a point when eventually things do fall in place.

What works:

The style is frothy and very chick lit, yet Jewell tackles some tough issues, paints some unique characters and manages to convey the harsh truths in candy floss language.
Her story though is simple, it is layered with emotions that connects very well with the reader.

What doesn't:

The plot is a bit formulaic.


They are feel good escapist reads, but why am I complaining? Jewell's books are like chocolate, you cannot stop at one.I loved the book and am definitely going for another one of hers. ( )

One of the first chick lit books i have ever read. I enjoyed this book and would recommend this as a feel good/easy read. ( )