About Books #88: Kiss

There certain things in my life that will always be true. I talk too much when I’m nervous. I’m always fiddling with something. And there isn’t a book by Jill Mansell that I don’t like. And guess what – Kiss just proved that. Yet again!

I was offered an ARC by Netgalley in exchange for a review. All opinions are strictly my own.

The story

When aspiring musician Izzy is knocked off her motorbike, she doesn’t just lose her dignity–she loses both long-term boyfriends, her job, and her beautiful apartment. Gina, who caused the accident, has more important things to worry about: her husband has just deserted her for his pregnant mistress. Why should she care about Izzy? Yet somehow, Gina finds herself opening her home to Izzy and her spirited teenage daughter.

It’s there that Izzy meets Gina’s oldest friend, heart-stoppingly handsome Sam, whose lingering kiss is almost impossible to ignore. But there are just a few obstacles between that first kiss and the happily ever after that has always eluded her…

The opinion

A bit of a fun fact for you: I had actually, a couple of years ago, already started reading this book. And then I decided I didn’t really like the set-up too much, and I didn’t continue.

Looking back, now, I’m not sure what I was thinking. After all, this book has all the characteristics of a classic Jill Mansell: two women that both aren’t too good at love. An old familiar face for at least one of them. A daughter (or relative, in some cases) who discovers love for the first time…

As I said: these are the prime characteristics of a classic Jill Mansell. And she does those things so well. She manages to never repeat herself, yet at the same time combines that with a wonderful sense of “I know this will end well.”

And in Kiss in particular – she manages to make all the characters likeable, even if (or particularly when) they make stupid decisions. From Izzy’s boyfriends, to her daughter’s first lover, to Gina’s lack of ability to move forward… These characters are put through the works, but you know – always – that they will make it out together. And isn’t that just what you need from a summer-read?

The rating: 3/5

This is one of those really enjoyable, full-of-fluff, perfect reads for the summer. So if you’re in need of some romance? Kiss is your book! (Goodreads)

-Saar