I’m so delighted today to be joining the blog tour and sharing my publication day review of the latest book from Jill Mansell, Just One Look At You: published today (29th January) by Headline Review, it’s now available in hardcover, on all major e-book platforms, and as an audiobook, with the paperback to follow on 7th May. My thanks to Anne Cater at Random Things Tours for the invitation and support, and to both her and the publishers for arranging my advance reading e-copy.
This review will be the last one I’ll share here on Being Anne, and it seems particularly appropriate that it’s for a book from Jill – if I hadn’t discovered how much I loved her books way back in the early nineties, I might never have known how much I would enjoy reading and reviewing romantic fiction, and the last thirteen years might never have happened. I haven’t read all her books – but I do own every one, and I’m already looking forward to catching up when I won’t have deadlines any more and can simply choose books I know I’ll enjoy. Her last book, An Almost Perfect Summer, was one of my 2025 Books of the Year, and everything I’ve always loved about her writing – a number of unfolding storylines all beautifully intertwined, a collection of wonderfully drawn characters who entirely won my heart, an escape from life’s realities, immersive and effortless to read, and so very uplifting with its moments of joy and many friendships (you can read my full review here).
So, let’s take a look at her latest…
Venice. The perfect setting for romance, and for secrets to be shared.
Fen can’t believe her luck. A luxury holiday with her beloved grandmother Disa – what could be more delightful? It doesn’t cross her mind that she might fall in love. Or that love can bring complications . . .
Jamie can’t help it that women always fall for him, rather than for his kind-hearted friend Leon. Nor that only one of them got the looks (that would be Jamie). But how will he feel if the girl he’s drawn to only has eyes for Leon?
Disa has a secret. A few weeks ago, an old letter in a file revealed a shocking truth about her late husband. She’s come to Venice to find out more.
There’s news on the way that will reverberate through all their lives, as Jill Mansell’s joyful, heartbreaking new novel takes readers on a roller coaster ride of emotion – and makes us believe in love again.
Fen is thoroughly delighted when grandmother Disa invites her to join her on a luxury river cruise in Venice. It’s twelve years since Disa lost her husband, and her life has been rather on hold since then, but she’s finally tackled the boxes of his belongings stacked in the garage – and what she finds there gives her a particular reason for wanting to make the trip.
Jamie and Leon are also on board – Jamie, an ex-rugby player with a television career and many swooning fans, is there to do some talks. Leon is his closest friend – a little chaotic, but exactly the grounding influence Jamie needs by his side. It’s Jamie who usually finds women falling at his feet, and Leon is well used to that – they are so close that he’s never found it a problem. But, this time, things are different – it’s Jamie who feels the attraction, but Leon who captures Fen’s heart.
As always, this is a wonderful ensemble piece. There are other passengers on board who have their own stories – all followed through, all thoroughly engaging and enjoyable with their twists and surprises. The outcome of Disa’s personal quest is also a major part of the story. But it’s that central triangle that drives the main narrative – on the cruise itself, and thereafter.
In part, this is escapist fiction at its very best – Venice is so beautifully described, the most perfect setting for the developing romance. The dialogue sparkles, some people behave particularly badly – and there’s plenty of humour in some of the situations the characters find themselves in. But my goodness, this book has some devastatingly emotional moments too – just thinking about them is making me want to cry again.
There are many moments of joy and love, but also grief and recovery so very sensitively handled. I really loved all the friendships, and the family relationships that unfolded – and there’s an ending that couldn’t have been any more perfect. The author has never written better – this book was an absolute delight, and I couldn’t recommend it more highly.
About the author
Jill Mansell started writing fiction while working in the NHS, after she read a magazine article that inspired her to join a local creative writing class. Since then she has written over twenty-five Sunday Times bestsellers. Her acclaimed novels include The Wedding of the Year, Promise Me, Should I Tell You?, And Now You’re Back, It Started with a Secret and You and Me, Always. Jill’s books have sold over 14.5 million copies worldwide.
Jill lives in Bristol and for many years worked in the field of clinical neurophysiology. You’d think inventing characters and stories would be easier, but she can assure you it isn’t.
Jill keeps in touch with her readers on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram: you can also visit her website.
Oh Anne, what an honour it has been to be reviewed by you! Thank you so so much for your fantastic words, and maybe now you’ll start writing some fiction of your own! Xx
Another fabulous review and what a way to bow out.
THANKYOU for introducing me to so many reads I probably wouldn’t have tried and all good wishes for the next phase in your life. Joy and fun to you xx
Talk about ending on a high! What a wonderful way to finish a fantastic blogging career. I will always be grateful for your support and I’m glad you’ll still be around. Xx
Thank you so much Anne, for everything x
Lovely review Anne. I’m reading this just now and loving it!