Alison Robinson
Three and a half stars. Delphie is living her best life, executive assistant to one of Ireland's wealthiest men she travels the world doing everything from buying an antique bracelet for his girlfriend to reviewing business plans and managing the company's charitable foundation. She's single with her own beautiful cottage by the sea but the rest of her large Irish family won't stop feeling sorry for her just because she's alone. The last straw comes when she is being harangued from all sides because she hasn't named a plus one for her brother's imminent wedding (because they need to write the placecards for the reception FFS). Then a quick trip to Mallorca to hand over said bracelet to her boss brings great news, he wants to appoint her to the Board. On the flight home she sits next to her ex, Ed, who left her to work in Dubai. Then tragedy strikes and Delphie's wonderful life collapses around her shoulders. Could reconnecting with the only boyfriend she ever really loved change everything? I did really enjoy this story although I felt that the two major plot lines were too obviously telegraphed, or maybe I'm just that good at reading people, or maybe I've just read a scary number of contemporary romances? It was nice to have a 'career woman' who genuinely loves her career and doesn't suddenly decide to settle for something slower-paced, or using a softer, more feminine skill (like opening a cup-cake shop). I liked Delphie and I wanted to be her friend. I don't think I've read any other books by Sheila O'Flanagan but i like her writing and will definitely look out for more from her. I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
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Page after page of boring narrative. Content and story line was very weak with no real depth to the story. Page after page of nonsense to fill the book out which left me feeling eager to finish it.
Grace J. Reviewerlady
It’s a real treat when I have a book from this author on my list – I have always really enjoyed her writing. Delphie is loving her brother’s wedding and having the best time, even if her family are reading too much between the lines about her plus one. Why can’t they see what she has achieved with her life? Her own home, a career she has worked hard for and good friends. Then one unexpected phone call changes it all; everything Delphie thought defined her is suddenly in question, and her life seems to be out of her control. Can she keep on living her own dream of not settling for anything less than perfect, or is her family right that settling down is the way to go? Another two weddings give her plenty of food for thought – is having it all too much to ask for? Oh, I liked Delphie! Her family, from their perspective, only want the best for her; from where she’s sitting they completely misunderstand her. Delphie is a modern capable woman who loves her life but really doesn’t appreciate her family’s constant enquiries about her love life and every single woman of a certain age knows exactly how that feels! Sheila O’Flanagan has produced another charming read with a range of completely believable characters and several interwoven story lines which all add up to a terrific read. I have giggled, cringed and nodded my head so hard I’m surprised it’s not in danger of falling off! This is a wonderfully written tale, showing the author’s deep understanding of people, with a completely satisfying ending – just as I like! I love everything about this novel and definitely recommend it; I’m very happy to give it 5*.