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Only One Woman
Two women, one love story.
June 1968. Renza falls head over heels for heartthrob guitarist Scott. But after a romantic summer together they are torn apart when Renza’s family moves away.
December 1968. On the night she believes to be her last, Stella meets Scott at a local dance. He’s the most beautiful boy she’s ever seen and if this one night is all they have, she’ll take it.
As the final colourful year of the sixties dawns, the question is: can there be only one woman for Scott?
300 pages, Paperback
Published November 21, 2017
6 people are currently reading
203 people want to read
About the author
Jane Risdon
18 books173 followersCrime writer who dabbles in other genres if the story dictates. Included in several anthologies.
Her publisher is Headline Accent. Only One Woman co-written with Christina Jones: published Paperback and eBook. This is a story about two girls in the late 1960s in love with the same musician and how world events, the music, and fashions of the time influence their lives. Not just a love triangle, it is a powerful story of life and times in an ever-changing world. You will laugh and cry so get the tissues out.
Amazon
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Only-One-Wom...
Publication of Undercover: Crime Shorts - my first collection of short stories with a crime as the theme. Paperback and eBook.
Universal links for eBooks.
https://books2read.com/u/4jD0wo
Busy writing a series of novels Ms. Birdsong Investigates about a former MI5 Officer - who left under a cloud - and cannot sit and watch murder, drug, gun-running and people trafficking go on in her rural Oxfordshire village...
Representation: Linda Langton of Langtons International Literary Agency, New York City, USA. www.langtonsinternational.com
Formerly in the International Music Business Jane now writes full time. She has a blog on WordPress, a Facebook Author Page, and is a keen photographer so you will see some of her photos there. She likes to interact with her followers.
Jane is often a guest author on internet radio and also writes for print and online magazines.
https://JaneRisdon.com
Her publisher is Headline Accent. Only One Woman co-written with Christina Jones: published Paperback and eBook. This is a story about two girls in the late 1960s in love with the same musician and how world events, the music, and fashions of the time influence their lives. Not just a love triangle, it is a powerful story of life and times in an ever-changing world. You will laugh and cry so get the tissues out.
Amazon
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Only-One-Wom...
Publication of Undercover: Crime Shorts - my first collection of short stories with a crime as the theme. Paperback and eBook.
Universal links for eBooks.
https://books2read.com/u/4jD0wo
Busy writing a series of novels Ms. Birdsong Investigates about a former MI5 Officer - who left under a cloud - and cannot sit and watch murder, drug, gun-running and people trafficking go on in her rural Oxfordshire village...
Representation: Linda Langton of Langtons International Literary Agency, New York City, USA. www.langtonsinternational.com
Formerly in the International Music Business Jane now writes full time. She has a blog on WordPress, a Facebook Author Page, and is a keen photographer so you will see some of her photos there. She likes to interact with her followers.
Jane is often a guest author on internet radio and also writes for print and online magazines.
https://JaneRisdon.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
November 22, 2017
When band members move in next door to Renza, her life will never be the same again, but Stella could put a fly in her ointment!
What a roller coaster of emotions for Renza and Stella. Only One Woman is a real insight into the lives of these two young women in the 1960s. They experience the whole range of experiences for women of their time with their contrasting families shaping them very differently. I’d much rather have Stella’s family in my life than Renza’s!
Right the way through reading Only One Woman I couldn’t make up my mind about Scott. At times I thought I would like to meet him myself and at others I felt I’d prefer to hit him several times with a very heavy blunt instrument. Even by the end of Only One Woman I hadn’t made up my mind. I think this shows what a good job both authors have done in creating complex and real characters.
However, I have no such vacillations of opinion about the atmosphere and 1960’s setting. Although I was quite a bit younger than Renza and Stella in the 1960s, I remembered so many of the cultural references that give Only One Woman such a vivid era, from the music to world events. The authors deserve great praise for the quality of the research to ensure the accuracy of these details. The music really sets the scene but readers of a certain age need to be careful otherwise they will have earworms for days reading this book!
I also enjoyed the variety of settings and was fascinated especially by the depiction of army life in Germany.
I think anyone who has lived through the 1960s will find so many personal memories are prompted by Renza, Stella, Scott et al so that there is so much more to enjoy than simply reading a narrative in Only One Woman. It’s a highly evocative read.
What a roller coaster of emotions for Renza and Stella. Only One Woman is a real insight into the lives of these two young women in the 1960s. They experience the whole range of experiences for women of their time with their contrasting families shaping them very differently. I’d much rather have Stella’s family in my life than Renza’s!
Right the way through reading Only One Woman I couldn’t make up my mind about Scott. At times I thought I would like to meet him myself and at others I felt I’d prefer to hit him several times with a very heavy blunt instrument. Even by the end of Only One Woman I hadn’t made up my mind. I think this shows what a good job both authors have done in creating complex and real characters.
However, I have no such vacillations of opinion about the atmosphere and 1960’s setting. Although I was quite a bit younger than Renza and Stella in the 1960s, I remembered so many of the cultural references that give Only One Woman such a vivid era, from the music to world events. The authors deserve great praise for the quality of the research to ensure the accuracy of these details. The music really sets the scene but readers of a certain age need to be careful otherwise they will have earworms for days reading this book!
I also enjoyed the variety of settings and was fascinated especially by the depiction of army life in Germany.
I think anyone who has lived through the 1960s will find so many personal memories are prompted by Renza, Stella, Scott et al so that there is so much more to enjoy than simply reading a narrative in Only One Woman. It’s a highly evocative read.
March 20, 2018
Writing and blending the perspective of two voices is not an easy thing to do. In my mind the only authors to pull this of (for me) are husband and wife team Nikki French.
Until now!
...Jones and Risdon intertwine their protagonists with effortless charm, and I felt myself drawn to both characters quite unbiasedly. An additional pleasure was being transported through time back to the sixties- (and as all great writers do) they pulled of the 'moment' of the generation beautifully. I was truly part of the scene and felt the vibe and flavour of the swinging sixties voraciously throughout this stunning novel.
A definite five star read.
Until now!
...Jones and Risdon intertwine their protagonists with effortless charm, and I felt myself drawn to both characters quite unbiasedly. An additional pleasure was being transported through time back to the sixties- (and as all great writers do) they pulled of the 'moment' of the generation beautifully. I was truly part of the scene and felt the vibe and flavour of the swinging sixties voraciously throughout this stunning novel.
A definite five star read.
November 26, 2017
Well, before reading Only One Woman I thought almost 500 pages for chicklit was FAR too long, but in this case it was definitely not long enough! Oh, how I wanted to continue the story of Renza, Stella and Scott, even though I had already read 500 pages of their story; I was left begging and thirsty for more!
I admit to feeling a little bit daunted that this book was so huge on my kindle, but once I started it I really didn't want it to end. The story of Renza falling in love with guitarist, Scott, was so sweet and heartrending that I fell in love with the couple myself. So when Renza moved to Germany and Stella came on the scene to threaten the perfect life we had built for Renza and Scott, I felt my heckles rise and I SO wanted to hate her, but I didn't. I felt like Scott; how could I love two women when only one can ever win?
This was SO very cleverly written in the form of diary entries. We are introduced to teenager, Renza, falling in love for the first time with band-member Scott. She is so sweet and innocent, but when she moves to Germany it isn't long before Scott's roving eye finds another target. Don't get me wrong, Scott isn't looking to replace Renza but there's something so very special about Stella, which is why I couldn't hate her! I really defy anyone to pin their colours to any one mast - Renza and Stella are both so very special and, through the marvellous writing of Christina Jones and Jane Risdon, we get to know them as if they are part of ourselves.
I absolutely adore the sixties vibe that was so cleverly woven throughout this book. I found myself humming the tunes that were mentioned and felt as if I had been transported to the colourful sixties era. The insecurities of new love were laid out in full view via diary entries from Renza and Stella, and I felt as if I was there reading the pages over their shoulder. Oh, how I longed for one or the other to conquer Scott's heart but, at the same time, I didn't want the other to lose. I don't think I can ever successfully describe the conflict going on in my head as I raced through this epic swinging sixties novel. When there are two people you love and one of them has to lose, how on earth can you choose?
What a glorious technicolour ride this was: Only One Woman manages to make the reader fall in love with two women and I really felt as if I should be able to choose between them, but I simply couldn't! I honestly believe that every reader will want both women to get their man, so to which mast will you pin your colours? Renza or Stella? YOU DECIDE!
I chose to read an ARC and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
I admit to feeling a little bit daunted that this book was so huge on my kindle, but once I started it I really didn't want it to end. The story of Renza falling in love with guitarist, Scott, was so sweet and heartrending that I fell in love with the couple myself. So when Renza moved to Germany and Stella came on the scene to threaten the perfect life we had built for Renza and Scott, I felt my heckles rise and I SO wanted to hate her, but I didn't. I felt like Scott; how could I love two women when only one can ever win?
This was SO very cleverly written in the form of diary entries. We are introduced to teenager, Renza, falling in love for the first time with band-member Scott. She is so sweet and innocent, but when she moves to Germany it isn't long before Scott's roving eye finds another target. Don't get me wrong, Scott isn't looking to replace Renza but there's something so very special about Stella, which is why I couldn't hate her! I really defy anyone to pin their colours to any one mast - Renza and Stella are both so very special and, through the marvellous writing of Christina Jones and Jane Risdon, we get to know them as if they are part of ourselves.
I absolutely adore the sixties vibe that was so cleverly woven throughout this book. I found myself humming the tunes that were mentioned and felt as if I had been transported to the colourful sixties era. The insecurities of new love were laid out in full view via diary entries from Renza and Stella, and I felt as if I was there reading the pages over their shoulder. Oh, how I longed for one or the other to conquer Scott's heart but, at the same time, I didn't want the other to lose. I don't think I can ever successfully describe the conflict going on in my head as I raced through this epic swinging sixties novel. When there are two people you love and one of them has to lose, how on earth can you choose?
What a glorious technicolour ride this was: Only One Woman manages to make the reader fall in love with two women and I really felt as if I should be able to choose between them, but I simply couldn't! I honestly believe that every reader will want both women to get their man, so to which mast will you pin your colours? Renza or Stella? YOU DECIDE!
I chose to read an ARC and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
March 26, 2018
Having promoted this on The Writers Newsletter I finally got round to reading it while on vacation. As I am the same age as the author's and also grew up during this time I have to say they vividly described how it was. There were many deja vu moments and glad they were just now a memory! If you were not there or don't remember it you will thoroughly enjoy it. I am sure there is a sequel waiting to be written.
December 29, 2018
What a great read for me, specially, as it brought back many memories being aged 14/15. Remembering the music and fashion mainly. The two authors really worked hard on this and made me feel as if I was back there amongst everyone, and have very cleverly put this book together. R enza and Stella are two fabulous girls, but im not going to spoil this for you, but can highly recommend you purchase, read and enjoy the book. Congratulations ladies, very well done with this book.
February 20, 2018
Youth, love, and a beautiful rock God could only mean one thing . . . and the reader will ache for both heroines as the novel pulls them into love, travel, good music, and wrenching heartache.
Only One Woman grabbed my attention from the first diary entry of love-stricken Renza and held my fascination to the very last page. Though I grew up post-sixties, I’ve always been fascinated by the music of this era. The author’s extensive knowledge and repertoire of 60’s music had me singing favorite lyrics as I delved into Renza and Stella’s worlds.
Ingeniously crafted, we experience the two heroine’s lives, loves, and heartache through their diaries. And through their personal experiences, we meet Scott and his fabulous Rock Band, Narnia’s Children.
Inherently different, the two heroines are raised by parents with a different set of standards and values. Sweet and prudently innocent, Renza lives with her authoritarian mother who wields control like a prison guard. Edgy and stylishly bold, Stella, recovering from a debilitating illness, lives with her liberal, easy-going, and loving parents who allow her many freedoms as an only child. Though Renza and Stella have different upbringings, they have four things in common, their love for Scott, music, reading, and writing.
Both women tugged at my heart, and I found myself rooting for both, but as the titles suggest, there can only be one woman for the devastatingly sexy Scott. At times, I grew angry at the heroine’s naiveté, and spoke under my breath, “Wise up!” On several occasions, I wished I could reach through my Kindle and thoroughly shake sense into all three, especially Scott. Such heartache and havoc he wreaks unknowingly? Did he know? That would call for an additional diary containing Scott’s thoughts. But the reader senses he’s torn and struggles with his decisions.
The authors kept me guessing which heroine would succeed victoriously in capturing Scott’s eternal love, and wondering if they’d both be better off without him. This book would be fantastic on the screen with the fashionable, colorful clothing, and music of the sixties set in several lovely locations. Hmmm . . . I hope! Thank you, Ms. Jones and Ms. Risdon for a fantastic read!
Only One Woman grabbed my attention from the first diary entry of love-stricken Renza and held my fascination to the very last page. Though I grew up post-sixties, I’ve always been fascinated by the music of this era. The author’s extensive knowledge and repertoire of 60’s music had me singing favorite lyrics as I delved into Renza and Stella’s worlds.
Ingeniously crafted, we experience the two heroine’s lives, loves, and heartache through their diaries. And through their personal experiences, we meet Scott and his fabulous Rock Band, Narnia’s Children.
Inherently different, the two heroines are raised by parents with a different set of standards and values. Sweet and prudently innocent, Renza lives with her authoritarian mother who wields control like a prison guard. Edgy and stylishly bold, Stella, recovering from a debilitating illness, lives with her liberal, easy-going, and loving parents who allow her many freedoms as an only child. Though Renza and Stella have different upbringings, they have four things in common, their love for Scott, music, reading, and writing.
Both women tugged at my heart, and I found myself rooting for both, but as the titles suggest, there can only be one woman for the devastatingly sexy Scott. At times, I grew angry at the heroine’s naiveté, and spoke under my breath, “Wise up!” On several occasions, I wished I could reach through my Kindle and thoroughly shake sense into all three, especially Scott. Such heartache and havoc he wreaks unknowingly? Did he know? That would call for an additional diary containing Scott’s thoughts. But the reader senses he’s torn and struggles with his decisions.
The authors kept me guessing which heroine would succeed victoriously in capturing Scott’s eternal love, and wondering if they’d both be better off without him. This book would be fantastic on the screen with the fashionable, colorful clothing, and music of the sixties set in several lovely locations. Hmmm . . . I hope! Thank you, Ms. Jones and Ms. Risdon for a fantastic read!
February 5, 2019
The Sixties are still a bit of a blur for me. That means I was there. And I have a lot of broken hearts to prove it - all mine. I was shot down so many times in those ten or so years that it's a wonder I'm still here. All of which means I know something of the problems and the heartache that Only One Woman's main protagonists Renza and Stella went through. But it wasn't Scott I was after. Definitely not, believe me. It was Patricia and Hazel and Marie and Ann and Sybil and Melanie and .... I can't go on.
The two girls in Only One Woman tell of their crush on Scott in a way that can only mean that the authors of this wonderfully nostalgic and loving look at the Sixties were rapt witnesses to those amazing years. The people, the songs, the music, the styles - and most of all the attitudes. In one sense it didn't matter too much to me which of these two girls ended up with Scott because far more important than that was the way that these two authors got right into the hearts of the lovestruck Renza and Stella.
Ah, the authors. First, Christina Jones. Apart from a scintillating career in writing which began when she was a mere child, she has done so many odd-jobs - as well as odd jobs - that her life experience cannot be doubted. (Possibly the only work she didn't do was captaining a North Sea oil rig, although I'm open to correction on that). And her co-author in this labour of love they have written is the incomparable Jane Risdon. Jane has been closely involved in so many fascinating experiences that she needs a separate wardrobe for all the T-shirts she has to vouch for it. Rock, Thrash Metal, Pop, R&B, Chinese Opera as well as movies, television and radio worldwide. And now writing, which amazingly she only got into five years ago. Stunning. Both stunning people.
The two girls in Only One Woman tell of their crush on Scott in a way that can only mean that the authors of this wonderfully nostalgic and loving look at the Sixties were rapt witnesses to those amazing years. The people, the songs, the music, the styles - and most of all the attitudes. In one sense it didn't matter too much to me which of these two girls ended up with Scott because far more important than that was the way that these two authors got right into the hearts of the lovestruck Renza and Stella.
Ah, the authors. First, Christina Jones. Apart from a scintillating career in writing which began when she was a mere child, she has done so many odd-jobs - as well as odd jobs - that her life experience cannot be doubted. (Possibly the only work she didn't do was captaining a North Sea oil rig, although I'm open to correction on that). And her co-author in this labour of love they have written is the incomparable Jane Risdon. Jane has been closely involved in so many fascinating experiences that she needs a separate wardrobe for all the T-shirts she has to vouch for it. Rock, Thrash Metal, Pop, R&B, Chinese Opera as well as movies, television and radio worldwide. And now writing, which amazingly she only got into five years ago. Stunning. Both stunning people.
May 31, 2019
So beautiful and touching. This book grabbed a hold of my heart right from the start of the book. Fantastic book and really easy to get into.
December 29, 2017
A great read!
July 29, 2018
Only One Woman by Christina Jones & Jane Risdon
(Fiction: Contemporary)
Only One Woman - beholds the story of three characters, whose lives & emotions get intertwined with one another, inadvertently. It’s a time portal, bringing nostalgic glimpses from the late 60’s - LP records, stereogram, 45rpm, phone boxes, kitten heels, rock shows & the Graham Bonnet hit song ‘Only One Woman’ (on which the name of the book is based on), are just a name a few!!
Renza – A 16-year-old girl with blonde hair & endless legs, living with her ‘Attila-the-Hun’ mom & five siblings (Simon, Sophia, Jasper, Lucy & Crispin) in England. Her Dad is posted in Germany, where they shift to eventually. Having completed her school, she aspires to pursue A-levels & then college to become a journalist. However, her authoritarian mom had some other plans for her future. She made it clear that, when moved to Germany, Renza was required to take care of the kids & that they wouldn’t allow her to opt for boarding in case there were no senior schools closer to their Germany home.
Nevertheless, Renza’s life takes a turn when prince in the shining armour enters her life & she is swooped off her feet. She falls for Scott, one of the vocalists from a local pop music group called Narnia’s Children! Suddenly her life becomes all super mushy & rosy. But as they say, all good things must come to an end & Renza, finally moves to Germany.
The book narrates Renza’s endeavour to retain a long-distance relationship through love letters & phone calls, amidst the apprehension of still being the only one woman in Scott’s life.
Scott – An 18-year-old 6’-tall drop-dead gorgeous guy with turquoise blue eyes, coming from a dysfunctional family, falls in love at first sight with his next-door neighbor, a teenage, blond beauty - Renza. Soon, he proposes Renza for marriage & is left heart broken when she moves to Germany to her dad’s, for good.
Staying with his best friends, who are also the members of the same pop group called Narnia’s Children, Scott pursues his passion for music & performs gigs after gigs all over England & in Germany. And during one such gig performance in St. Barnabus, he meets Stella & loses his heart to her instantaneously.
The book unfolds Scott’s immature indecisiveness towards two women, who love him the most.
Stella – A girl in her early twenties, recovering from a major surgery, develops a crush for the most beautiful boy (Scott) from the pop group Narnia’s Children, when attending the band’s gig at St. Barnabus. Scott brings a new meaning to her vanishing life & lets herself to fall in love with Scott in spite of knowing that he is engaged. The insecurity never discouraged Stella to express her undying love for Scott which was reciprocated as well. Stella was sure that as long as Scott was with her, loved her & was hers whenever they were together, nothing else mattered.
The book does tend to get irrelevantly lengthy at times & the sentences seem to go round & round in circles!
However, for the past one month the characters have become part of my life, I would shamelessly steal time out of my job to read few more pages. Of course, I would miss them ☹
Also, I would like to thank the authors for giving me a new playlist from the 60’s (bliss!) 😊
So, grab your copy & read the 500ish pages to figure out if there’s Only One Woman in Scott’s life! :P 😊
Happy Reading!! <3
December 7, 2017
I've been waiting for ages for another Christina Jones's book so when the announcement on Twitter went that "Only One Woman" is going to be released, I couldn't hide my excitement. This book is also a co - operation with Jane Risdon, and lately I've read a brilliant book written by two authors, so was hoping for another captivating read with a difference.
But honestly, I wanted to just put my kindle away and mark this book as DNF much too many times, and this right at the beginning. The only thing that kept me reading was the fact that I was supposed to review it for the blog tour, and also hope that it's going to turn out into something much better. Unfortunately, any of those things happened and in the end I found myself skim reading and waiting impatiently for the words "The End". I'm sorry if it sounds harsh but those are my feelings and I can't change them. It was a repetitive and lifeless story, slow paced and with underdeveloped characters. One of the reasons that I didn't like it was mother of one of the main characters - I hated this woman. She treated her daughter like a slave and decided about everything - literally everything.
I couldn't believe how naive Renza was, and it doesn't matter if it is the swinging 60's or 2017, naive is naive and I just wanted to shake her and tell her to get a grip. To be honest, I am much more Team Stella. Also, the very sexy and luscious Scott was not my cup of tea, he was playing with the feelings and emotions of the girls all the time, and actually why was it Stella that should feel so bad and not Scott for being a two - timing, calculated person?
Sure, this story was a one great roller - coaster of emotions and feelings for all characters involved but they just didn't sound true and genuine to me. However, this book, in a great way, gives an insight into the lives of two different girls, or young women, in the 1960s. There were many descriptions of clothes, and especially music, actually the whole book was like a one, long lyric. I wasn't born in 1960's but all the cultural references, the names of the groups and songs ring a bell, how couldn't they, those are cult bands and songs, and it was great to read about them. The atmosphere and the vibe of those times is brilliantly captured, and I also think the differences in lives and the family dynamics as well, and I'm really very sorry that it just didn't work for me.
Copy provided by the publisher in return for an honest review.
January 20, 2019
Only One Woman~ Review by Jeanice Deering
“Every day I get in the queue, to get on the bus that takes me to you” The Who.
To do list:
Save my babysitting money to buy, 1- The latest LP’s by: Jimi Hendrix, The Beatles, Narnia’s Children, The Supremes, The Beach Boys, The Hollies, The Moody Blues, The Who, Led Zeppelin, The Zombies and more…
2- Mary Quant mascara, pale pink lipstick, pots of Yardley lip gloss, white nail polish, lots of colors of beads, Herbal Essence or fruity shampoo. 3- Thigh-high boots, leather vest with long, long fringe, mini skirts, maxi dresses, wide leather belts (at least 3 inches,) fishnets, colored tights, pantyhose, bell bottomed jeans and cords.
If you have any interest in the 60’s, you have to trip on Only One Woman. It is alive with the music of the day, and the fabulous fashions, attributed to Hippies, though they were the style of the 60’s.
Nearly every girl’s fantasy was to find out her dreamy neighbor was in a rock band, and he had a mad crush on her.
This ride takes you to places in England, Jersey and even Germany. A time before the internet and microwave ovens. You won’t think of the 60’s the same way, once you experience this read. You will see that time through the eyes of two very different girls, Renza and Stella. They separately fall for the same gorgeous boy, Scott, who happens to be in a rock band, Narnia’s Children.
Travel back to a time to when music became alive, with a soul of it’s own. We wrapped the sounds around ourselves like a cozy blanket made of love, peace, freedom and flowers. Find out what it takes for a rock and roll heartthrob to fall for Only One Woman.
Peace.
“Every day I get in the queue, to get on the bus that takes me to you” The Who.
To do list:
Save my babysitting money to buy, 1- The latest LP’s by: Jimi Hendrix, The Beatles, Narnia’s Children, The Supremes, The Beach Boys, The Hollies, The Moody Blues, The Who, Led Zeppelin, The Zombies and more…
2- Mary Quant mascara, pale pink lipstick, pots of Yardley lip gloss, white nail polish, lots of colors of beads, Herbal Essence or fruity shampoo. 3- Thigh-high boots, leather vest with long, long fringe, mini skirts, maxi dresses, wide leather belts (at least 3 inches,) fishnets, colored tights, pantyhose, bell bottomed jeans and cords.
If you have any interest in the 60’s, you have to trip on Only One Woman. It is alive with the music of the day, and the fabulous fashions, attributed to Hippies, though they were the style of the 60’s.
Nearly every girl’s fantasy was to find out her dreamy neighbor was in a rock band, and he had a mad crush on her.
This ride takes you to places in England, Jersey and even Germany. A time before the internet and microwave ovens. You won’t think of the 60’s the same way, once you experience this read. You will see that time through the eyes of two very different girls, Renza and Stella. They separately fall for the same gorgeous boy, Scott, who happens to be in a rock band, Narnia’s Children.
Travel back to a time to when music became alive, with a soul of it’s own. We wrapped the sounds around ourselves like a cozy blanket made of love, peace, freedom and flowers. Find out what it takes for a rock and roll heartthrob to fall for Only One Woman.
Peace.
April 2, 2021
I'm often asked what it is like to write a novel with another author. I must admit it was a strange and first experience for both Christina Jones and myself. It helps if you are friends and have a shared past - she was fan club secretary for my husband (then boyfriend) and his band. We had lots of background material to use; we were both teenagers at the end of the 1960s. We were both music-mad - though our tastes were very different - and we both loved fashion and again, our tastes were worlds apart. Christina loved the outrageous and her character, Stella, reflects this as well. My tastes were more Hippie and yet classic for the times and again, in Only One Woman, Renza - my character - reflects my tastes. We both loved Dusty and Jools Driscoll and black eyeliner and mascara with pale lips was our 'uniform' as were the knee-length white lace-up boots which were all the rage. Of course, our skirts were so short they resembled belts. We are pleased but not surprised that so many guys and musicians love Only One Woman; there is so much that is not focused on the love triangle between Scott, Renza, and Stella. Music is a huge theme and the venues, the musicians and bands around at that time we mention are real. The lifestyle of the bands on the road back then is totally authentic. If you love the 1960s and want a trip down memory lane this is the novel for you. If you wished you wish you had lived then, this book will take you there in moments and you will feel what it was like to live in the grooviest decade of the 20th century in no time.
August 23, 2018
A tune from the past!
For me, this was a disappointment. I have loved all of Christina's books and bought this because of her as co-author. It is a period I can relate to. but really the emphasis on the group names and record titles became tedious..
The female characters were pretty accurate as was the key male but he was a selfish lad who had a lot to learn about life.. As I said, pretty accurate for a late teen. Just not what I anticipated or enjoyed. Very pleased to complete, although I guess many will enjoy it. I hope CJ will be publishing again, alone.
For me, this was a disappointment. I have loved all of Christina's books and bought this because of her as co-author. It is a period I can relate to. but really the emphasis on the group names and record titles became tedious..
The female characters were pretty accurate as was the key male but he was a selfish lad who had a lot to learn about life.. As I said, pretty accurate for a late teen. Just not what I anticipated or enjoyed. Very pleased to complete, although I guess many will enjoy it. I hope CJ will be publishing again, alone.
January 29, 2019
Brilliant read
I loved this book and wish I could find more with the same type of settings(60’s) and stories of the girls and groups etc
I loved this book and wish I could find more with the same type of settings(60’s) and stories of the girls and groups etc
May 30, 2020
I found it hard to put this book down and I read it in three days in between working from home and waiting for a sofa delivery. I am in the middle of cataloguing a teenage girl’s diary from 1975, only six years after this story, and I noted the similarities in writing style and commentary, so I think that both authors have done a great job in capturing two authentic female teenage voices and getting inside their minds. The only drawback to this is that because of those teenage voices and the necessary simplicity of the writing, it may come over ever so slightly as a YA book. I’m a vintage fan born mid 1970s and I loved the insight into the lives of the two protagonists, Renza and Stella, and the changes and happenings taking place in a classic decade that wasn’t there for. But having read this, I feel I was.
In the spring of 1968, Renza is 16 and treated like Cinderella by her mean mother, who is controlling and spiteful. Life bucks up for her when the members of an up and coming rock group, Narnia’s Children, move into a flat over the hairdresser’s in her street and she falls in love with the hot lead guitarist, Scott. I loved reading about her excitement about meeting him, the uncertainty about whether he really likes her or not, the references to her favourite songs and fashions. After the summer ends she has to move with her family to her father’s Army base in Germany and her perfect romance turns into a long-distance relationship. Her life is now built around waiting for phone calls and letters and wondering what Scott is doing. Her life is so stultifying that there is nothing else for her to do.
Meanwhile, Stella is a music journalist in training alongside her real job as a civil servant and instantly falls for Scott at a dance she goes to with her best mate Vix. She’s an interesting character as she has battled with illness for a long time, designs and makes her own clothes, takes no nonsense when her boyfriend Mike cheats on her and has a lovely family and an interesting life to keep her busy. But when it comes to Scott she is like a blancmange. I wanted her to walk away and just leave him to it.
Now I have experience of seeing a man in a band for the first time and getting such a zing that it meant far far more than just “he’s hot” so I do empathise with Stella here and know it is real! Seeing as we are talking lyrics, I heard a 70s song on Pick of the Pops that had the line “the minute I saw your face I knew that I loved you” and it was true for me. Not in a cutesy fangirl way – I was never a fangirl - but a deeper, primeval way. I knew I loved him already and I didn’t know how I knew it. But I did.
The last year of the 60s dawns and Scott effortlessly (for him) juggles the two girls. I felt for both of them as I read the rawness of their diary entries, one day up, the next day down. It was so realistic and gave me a glimpse into a world I didn’t experience. Though the two protagonists are different characters with opposite family backgrounds, in an interesting Venn diagram they do share a love of music, fashion, writing and literature and the parallels are probably what attracted Scott to them both.
So was there Only One Woman for Scott in the end? Personally I would have liked to see both girls walk away from him into independent lives taking the lessons learned with them and leaving him to grow up. As we didn’t get his own viewpoint, it was difficult to decide if he was simply a selfish rat or was genuinely conflicted but he didn’t deserve either girl. He was certainly immature and his dysfunctional family upbringing would have been a contributing factor.
Because the tale is told through two diaries, we don’t really get to see Scott’s point of view, the reasons why Renza’s mum is such a cow, why Rich walked away or gain any other insight. So we need a sequel, ladies! And what a fantastic film this would make, too. I learned so much about 60s fashion and music and raw emotions through this fabulous read.
In the spring of 1968, Renza is 16 and treated like Cinderella by her mean mother, who is controlling and spiteful. Life bucks up for her when the members of an up and coming rock group, Narnia’s Children, move into a flat over the hairdresser’s in her street and she falls in love with the hot lead guitarist, Scott. I loved reading about her excitement about meeting him, the uncertainty about whether he really likes her or not, the references to her favourite songs and fashions. After the summer ends she has to move with her family to her father’s Army base in Germany and her perfect romance turns into a long-distance relationship. Her life is now built around waiting for phone calls and letters and wondering what Scott is doing. Her life is so stultifying that there is nothing else for her to do.
Meanwhile, Stella is a music journalist in training alongside her real job as a civil servant and instantly falls for Scott at a dance she goes to with her best mate Vix. She’s an interesting character as she has battled with illness for a long time, designs and makes her own clothes, takes no nonsense when her boyfriend Mike cheats on her and has a lovely family and an interesting life to keep her busy. But when it comes to Scott she is like a blancmange. I wanted her to walk away and just leave him to it.
Now I have experience of seeing a man in a band for the first time and getting such a zing that it meant far far more than just “he’s hot” so I do empathise with Stella here and know it is real! Seeing as we are talking lyrics, I heard a 70s song on Pick of the Pops that had the line “the minute I saw your face I knew that I loved you” and it was true for me. Not in a cutesy fangirl way – I was never a fangirl - but a deeper, primeval way. I knew I loved him already and I didn’t know how I knew it. But I did.
The last year of the 60s dawns and Scott effortlessly (for him) juggles the two girls. I felt for both of them as I read the rawness of their diary entries, one day up, the next day down. It was so realistic and gave me a glimpse into a world I didn’t experience. Though the two protagonists are different characters with opposite family backgrounds, in an interesting Venn diagram they do share a love of music, fashion, writing and literature and the parallels are probably what attracted Scott to them both.
So was there Only One Woman for Scott in the end? Personally I would have liked to see both girls walk away from him into independent lives taking the lessons learned with them and leaving him to grow up. As we didn’t get his own viewpoint, it was difficult to decide if he was simply a selfish rat or was genuinely conflicted but he didn’t deserve either girl. He was certainly immature and his dysfunctional family upbringing would have been a contributing factor.
Because the tale is told through two diaries, we don’t really get to see Scott’s point of view, the reasons why Renza’s mum is such a cow, why Rich walked away or gain any other insight. So we need a sequel, ladies! And what a fantastic film this would make, too. I learned so much about 60s fashion and music and raw emotions through this fabulous read.
November 30, 2017
I’m a bit of a fan of the swinging sixties, not quite of an age to fully appreciate it but my sister who is a lot older certainly ‘lived’ it so I gained quite a lot of knowledge from her, clothes, perfumes, music etc
Only One Woman nearly turned me off before I begun when I spotted how long it is. Being a blogger entails reading a LOT of books and I don’t always have time or patience to spend on one specific story if it drags into a lengthy tome. However no such fear with this one, as soon as I read the first few pages I just knew I was going to love it.
You soon become absorbed in the era, transported back to a completely different time. Told in the style of diary entries by Renza and Stella we immediately see into the world of these teenagers, what better way to get a feel for the climate.
Scott the rock god is the central link, Renza falls hopelessly for him but the relationship becomes long distance when her family moves abroad. Scott then meets Stella .. my initial thoughts were typical man, can’t have one girl so leaps at another. But the depth of this story explores the feelings from the trio and as much as it pains me I could almost understand Scott’s actions.
Only One Woman is cleverly written to capture the essence of all characters involved and I really felt connected to them. One moment I was rooting for Stella but in the blink of an eye Renza would be my favourite. I think the fact Scott was a hot musician helped his cause in my eyes, if he was just a layabout slob perhaps I would have given him a slap or two! I particularly enjoyed singing a long with the music and reminiscing about various 60’s products. Plenty of research or very good memories have gone into the writing of this book.
Thanks to the authors and publishers for my copy which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
Only One Woman nearly turned me off before I begun when I spotted how long it is. Being a blogger entails reading a LOT of books and I don’t always have time or patience to spend on one specific story if it drags into a lengthy tome. However no such fear with this one, as soon as I read the first few pages I just knew I was going to love it.
You soon become absorbed in the era, transported back to a completely different time. Told in the style of diary entries by Renza and Stella we immediately see into the world of these teenagers, what better way to get a feel for the climate.
Scott the rock god is the central link, Renza falls hopelessly for him but the relationship becomes long distance when her family moves abroad. Scott then meets Stella .. my initial thoughts were typical man, can’t have one girl so leaps at another. But the depth of this story explores the feelings from the trio and as much as it pains me I could almost understand Scott’s actions.
Only One Woman is cleverly written to capture the essence of all characters involved and I really felt connected to them. One moment I was rooting for Stella but in the blink of an eye Renza would be my favourite. I think the fact Scott was a hot musician helped his cause in my eyes, if he was just a layabout slob perhaps I would have given him a slap or two! I particularly enjoyed singing a long with the music and reminiscing about various 60’s products. Plenty of research or very good memories have gone into the writing of this book.
Thanks to the authors and publishers for my copy which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
November 24, 2017
I really enjoyed ONLY ONE WOMAN by Christina Jones and Jane Risdon as it transported me to the 1960's and opened up a different time in front of my very eyes. While I wasn't born at the time that this story is based it didn't stop me revelling in the music scene, lifestyle, and attitudes that existed back then. And the two female characters in this engaging story are compelling as we get lost in their emotions and visions for the future.
The story begins in the form of diary entries which really worked for me as it gave the narrative a personal touch that was nostalgic and informative at the same time - who hasn't written their deep, dark, and often ridiculous secrets in their secret journal? Scott is charismatic and vivacious and while I could understand his appeal, he also irritated the hell out of me plenty of times along the way. Renza and Stella are two very different personalities but you couldn't help but like them both even though we know that one of them will end up heartbroken at some stage.
ONLY ONE WOMAN by Christina Jones and Jane Risdon is a nostalgic throwback to the 60's yet it bursts with a fresh storyline that will hold your attention throughout - a very enjoyable read.
*I voluntarily reviewed this book from the Publisher
The story begins in the form of diary entries which really worked for me as it gave the narrative a personal touch that was nostalgic and informative at the same time - who hasn't written their deep, dark, and often ridiculous secrets in their secret journal? Scott is charismatic and vivacious and while I could understand his appeal, he also irritated the hell out of me plenty of times along the way. Renza and Stella are two very different personalities but you couldn't help but like them both even though we know that one of them will end up heartbroken at some stage.
ONLY ONE WOMAN by Christina Jones and Jane Risdon is a nostalgic throwback to the 60's yet it bursts with a fresh storyline that will hold your attention throughout - a very enjoyable read.
*I voluntarily reviewed this book from the Publisher
December 30, 2018
In this delightful, well-written blast from the past, the authors capture the tone of the free-loving 60’s through the diary entries of two “mod” teens. It’s an enjoyable read, especially for those of us who lived through the “drugs, sex, and rock and roll” revolution. Thanks for the memories!
November 25, 2017
This is the story of two girls in 1968 who fall in love with a charismatic rock star called Scott. The story is brilliantly told in diary form bringing the reader instantly into their worlds, their conflicted thoughts, and troubled emotions.
Renza, is a sixteen-year-old girl with a miserable home life spent looking after her younger siblings, while being bullied mercilessly by her vile mother. She’s beautiful, sad and lonely, and when she meets Scott, a guitarist from Narnia’s Children, she can’t believe he is as attracted to her as she is to him. Unfortunately, she has to move to Germany with her demanding family a couple of months after they meet. Stella is gorgeous and has more experience of life than Renza. She writes short stories and carries out interviews for magazines and works at a job she hates. In December Stella goes to a concert with her friend and meets Scott...
A nostalgic treat, with a delicious hero and two fabulous heroines.
Renza, is a sixteen-year-old girl with a miserable home life spent looking after her younger siblings, while being bullied mercilessly by her vile mother. She’s beautiful, sad and lonely, and when she meets Scott, a guitarist from Narnia’s Children, she can’t believe he is as attracted to her as she is to him. Unfortunately, she has to move to Germany with her demanding family a couple of months after they meet. Stella is gorgeous and has more experience of life than Renza. She writes short stories and carries out interviews for magazines and works at a job she hates. In December Stella goes to a concert with her friend and meets Scott...
A nostalgic treat, with a delicious hero and two fabulous heroines.
January 21, 2019
ONLY ONE WOMAN by Christina Jones and Jane Risdon was an easy and nostalgic read. As I am more of a 70s child, everything was somewhat new and interesting reading about the 60s. The story easily transported me into Renza and Stella's world and living through them in that era. While reading, my emotions rolled with them. I am satisfied with the ending!
May 18, 2018
A walk down memory lane. Being a child of the sixties, I was attracted to this novel for something different. Authors, Christina Jones and Jane Risdon take us into a world of innocence when we listened to Radio Luxumberg, followed our favourite bands, wore Biba and Mary Quant, PVC, and ate Fray Bentos Steak and Kidney Pies. This is the era when we pushed the boundaries against parents who seemingly, micro-managed us - all with the aim to be free and explore ourselves and our love affairs. A thoroughly enjoyable light-hearted and witty read. Highly recommended
August 30, 2018
I loved this book. It threw me back to the 1960s. The writing is engaging, and the characters jump off the page. I can't wait to read more by Jones and Risdon. The books an adventure into the past.
November 26, 2018
I found this very different to the books I normally read. I kind of enjoyed it, I suppose. It’s quite slow moving, and I didn’t feel that the ending was satisfying, so I probably won’t read it again.
February 20, 2018
Youth, love, and a beautiful rock God could only mean one thing . . . and the reader will ache for both heroines as the novel pulls them into love, travel, good music, and wrenching heartache.
Only One Woman grabbed my attention from the first diary entry of love-stricken Renza and held my fascination to the very last page. Though I grew up post-sixties, I’ve always been fascinated by the music of this era. The author’s extensive knowledge and repertoire of 60’s music had me singing favorite lyrics as I delved into Renza and Stella’s worlds. Ingeniously crafted, we experience the two heroine’s lives, loves, and heartache through their diaries. And through their personal experiences, we meet Scott and his fabulous Rock Band, Narnia’s Children.
Inherently different, the two heroines are raised by parents with a different set of standards and values. Sweet and prudently innocent, Renza lives with her authoritarian mother who wields control like a prison guard. Edgy and stylishly bold, Stella, recovering from a debilitating illness, lives with her liberal, easy-going, and loving parents who allow her many freedoms as an only child. Though Renza and Stella have different upbringings, they have four things in common, their love for Scott, music, reading, and writing.
Both women tugged at my heart, and I found myself rooting for both, but as the titles suggest, there can only be one woman for the devastatingly sexy Scott. At times, I grew angry at the heroine’s naiveté, and spoke under my breath, “Wise up!” On several occasions, I wished I could reach through my Kindle and thoroughly shake sense into all three, especially Scott. Such heartache and havoc he wreaks unknowingly? Did he know? That would call for an additional diary containing Scott’s thoughts. But the reader senses he’s torn and struggles with his decisions.
The authors kept me guessing which heroine would succeed victoriously in capturing Scott’s eternal love, and wondering if they’d both be better off without him. This book would be fantastic on the screen with the fashionable, colorful clothing, and music of the sixties set in several lovely locations. Hmmm . . . I hope! Thank you, Ms. Jones and Ms. Risdon for a fantastic read!
Only One Woman grabbed my attention from the first diary entry of love-stricken Renza and held my fascination to the very last page. Though I grew up post-sixties, I’ve always been fascinated by the music of this era. The author’s extensive knowledge and repertoire of 60’s music had me singing favorite lyrics as I delved into Renza and Stella’s worlds. Ingeniously crafted, we experience the two heroine’s lives, loves, and heartache through their diaries. And through their personal experiences, we meet Scott and his fabulous Rock Band, Narnia’s Children.
Inherently different, the two heroines are raised by parents with a different set of standards and values. Sweet and prudently innocent, Renza lives with her authoritarian mother who wields control like a prison guard. Edgy and stylishly bold, Stella, recovering from a debilitating illness, lives with her liberal, easy-going, and loving parents who allow her many freedoms as an only child. Though Renza and Stella have different upbringings, they have four things in common, their love for Scott, music, reading, and writing.
Both women tugged at my heart, and I found myself rooting for both, but as the titles suggest, there can only be one woman for the devastatingly sexy Scott. At times, I grew angry at the heroine’s naiveté, and spoke under my breath, “Wise up!” On several occasions, I wished I could reach through my Kindle and thoroughly shake sense into all three, especially Scott. Such heartache and havoc he wreaks unknowingly? Did he know? That would call for an additional diary containing Scott’s thoughts. But the reader senses he’s torn and struggles with his decisions.
The authors kept me guessing which heroine would succeed victoriously in capturing Scott’s eternal love, and wondering if they’d both be better off without him. This book would be fantastic on the screen with the fashionable, colorful clothing, and music of the sixties set in several lovely locations. Hmmm . . . I hope! Thank you, Ms. Jones and Ms. Risdon for a fantastic read!
March 24, 2018
Christina Jones and Jane Risdon are two of the best, most recognized writers emerging now from the UK. Individually, each is a gifted writer and storyteller with a real talent for creating fascinating storylines, compelling characters and damn good, REAL-sounding dialog. But, put Christina and Jane together working on the same title, and you uncork magic.
1968. The Fool was perched on the hill. Mick & co. were trying to generate a little sympathy for old Nick. And the rest of the world was caught up in the explosion of music, fashions and leading-edge creativity bursting out of London and San Francisco.
In the midst of it all, Christina and Jane weave an irresistible tale of two English teenage girls – one living the dark side of the Cinderella story and the other, a girl facing life-altering medical choices, who decides to follow her dream of becoming a music industry journalist. Both characters meet and befriend the guys in a struggling rock group, on the cusp of jumping from playing pub dates to filling arenas. And, they both fall in love with the same band member, the lead guitarist.
The entire book is told through the girls’ diary entries, which I thought was genius. I love it when an author takes me right inside the head of their main character, to see what they’re thinking and why. And, in the case of Only One Woman, I got to see and enjoy it TWICE.
During the time period this book was taking place, I was around 19 and living about 10 miles South of San Francisco. I was pretty active in the city’s music and creative scene, so a lot of the local musicians were friends (a few still are, 50 years later). And, I knew a couple of musicians who lived through some of the events in Only One Woman.
Look, I’m not going to offer any spoilers here, but if you either remember the times or are a fan of them, Christina and Jane will take you on a completely enjoyable romp down the rabbit hole. Only One Woman will not disappoint.
You’ve got my word as a double Leo on it.
(Received a copy in exchange for an HONEST review)
1968. The Fool was perched on the hill. Mick & co. were trying to generate a little sympathy for old Nick. And the rest of the world was caught up in the explosion of music, fashions and leading-edge creativity bursting out of London and San Francisco.
In the midst of it all, Christina and Jane weave an irresistible tale of two English teenage girls – one living the dark side of the Cinderella story and the other, a girl facing life-altering medical choices, who decides to follow her dream of becoming a music industry journalist. Both characters meet and befriend the guys in a struggling rock group, on the cusp of jumping from playing pub dates to filling arenas. And, they both fall in love with the same band member, the lead guitarist.
The entire book is told through the girls’ diary entries, which I thought was genius. I love it when an author takes me right inside the head of their main character, to see what they’re thinking and why. And, in the case of Only One Woman, I got to see and enjoy it TWICE.
During the time period this book was taking place, I was around 19 and living about 10 miles South of San Francisco. I was pretty active in the city’s music and creative scene, so a lot of the local musicians were friends (a few still are, 50 years later). And, I knew a couple of musicians who lived through some of the events in Only One Woman.
Look, I’m not going to offer any spoilers here, but if you either remember the times or are a fan of them, Christina and Jane will take you on a completely enjoyable romp down the rabbit hole. Only One Woman will not disappoint.
You’ve got my word as a double Leo on it.
(Received a copy in exchange for an HONEST review)
October 27, 2021
BITTERSWEET MEMORIES DOWN MEMORY LANE
I really enjoyed “Only One Woman” by Jane Risdon and Christina Jones, particularly because it takes me back to the the Swinging Sixties and my teenage days of bopping to the music of The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, The Bee Gees and all the other great groups of that time on the disco scene.
The story is cleverly co-written in diary form, the two central characters, Renza and Stella, each telling their stories about how they fall in love with the same guy. He’s called Scott, who happens to be drop-dead gorgeous and a guitarist in a pop group, Narnia’s Children. With both women from very different backgrounds and changes of locations, including Jersey and Germany, the story moves on apace and I found it impossible to favour either woman when it came to Scott’s ultimate choice. As the story builds, I just had to keep reading to find out. I also loved sharing the writers’ reminiscences of how it was for young women back then - from the foods we used to eat, to the fashions we wore, from family life to being at work.
Throughout the book, I found myself feeling very sorry for both storytellers, who, in effect, were being strung along by a selfish, crazy, mixed-up male struggling to make a choice between the two women in his life. But clearly, the story well illustrated the joys and pain of young romance back in those bittersweet days of “free love”.
I would highly recommend this book as a trip down memory lane for women who were in their teens in the Sixties, and like me, followers of fashion, pop music and eligible bachelors!
I really enjoyed “Only One Woman” by Jane Risdon and Christina Jones, particularly because it takes me back to the the Swinging Sixties and my teenage days of bopping to the music of The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, The Bee Gees and all the other great groups of that time on the disco scene.
The story is cleverly co-written in diary form, the two central characters, Renza and Stella, each telling their stories about how they fall in love with the same guy. He’s called Scott, who happens to be drop-dead gorgeous and a guitarist in a pop group, Narnia’s Children. With both women from very different backgrounds and changes of locations, including Jersey and Germany, the story moves on apace and I found it impossible to favour either woman when it came to Scott’s ultimate choice. As the story builds, I just had to keep reading to find out. I also loved sharing the writers’ reminiscences of how it was for young women back then - from the foods we used to eat, to the fashions we wore, from family life to being at work.
Throughout the book, I found myself feeling very sorry for both storytellers, who, in effect, were being strung along by a selfish, crazy, mixed-up male struggling to make a choice between the two women in his life. But clearly, the story well illustrated the joys and pain of young romance back in those bittersweet days of “free love”.
I would highly recommend this book as a trip down memory lane for women who were in their teens in the Sixties, and like me, followers of fashion, pop music and eligible bachelors!
December 30, 2017
For me, Only One Woman by Jane Risdon & Christina Jones was an absolute delight of a read from the first page to the last. I felt like I was transported back to the rock n roll era of swinging sixties England as I walked along with both coming of age heroines as they meet and fall in love with the same soon to be rock god.
The writers literally take you back in time and into the world of the beautiful, lonely, Renza who is dealing with a mom with serious control issues and Stella, the equally beautiful, slightly more experienced budding journalist with health issues that in the end send her seeking a new life journey. When these two music, musician obsessed, young women fall in love with the same man, well….
Both authors meld their unique voices to deliver a combination of fun, fast paced storytelling that nails the lifestyle, free love attitude of the sixties with interesting, engaging characters that draw you in from the start. Not to mention the quirky cast of characters that people this world. I fell in love the boys in the band.
Nostalgic and delicious are the two best words to describe this story. I highly recommend and can’t wait to see if there is a sequel.
The writers literally take you back in time and into the world of the beautiful, lonely, Renza who is dealing with a mom with serious control issues and Stella, the equally beautiful, slightly more experienced budding journalist with health issues that in the end send her seeking a new life journey. When these two music, musician obsessed, young women fall in love with the same man, well….
Both authors meld their unique voices to deliver a combination of fun, fast paced storytelling that nails the lifestyle, free love attitude of the sixties with interesting, engaging characters that draw you in from the start. Not to mention the quirky cast of characters that people this world. I fell in love the boys in the band.
Nostalgic and delicious are the two best words to describe this story. I highly recommend and can’t wait to see if there is a sequel.
March 25, 2018
ONLY ONE WOMAN
From a guy's viewpoint my initial thoughts were that this was "a girly book" but the more I read the more I got into the characters and found them to be engaging, realistic and fascinating in their own different ways. I remember 1968 reasonably well and was always a music lover. So many of the musicians / bands / records I loved (and still do) are featured or mentioned in this story, they form the foundation that gels the characters together and yet keeps the two young women apart. I felt sure that by the end they would meet. The plot was intriguing - young, teenage love and early 20's too, the story captures the love, jealousy, excitement, anticipation, disappointment, every possible emotion without bitterness and /or hatred that fills todays world. By the end I wanted to know more, I want to read about 1969/70, I want to discover if the band and Scott ever get to make any cash in this business, maybe they had dodgy management who stole the lot. I want to see how Renza's relationship with Scott & her mother pans out, I want to see what happens to Stella and so on. Always leave them wanting more - I do. Thank you Jane & Christina - I loved your story and am happy to give it my 5 star rating.
From a guy's viewpoint my initial thoughts were that this was "a girly book" but the more I read the more I got into the characters and found them to be engaging, realistic and fascinating in their own different ways. I remember 1968 reasonably well and was always a music lover. So many of the musicians / bands / records I loved (and still do) are featured or mentioned in this story, they form the foundation that gels the characters together and yet keeps the two young women apart. I felt sure that by the end they would meet. The plot was intriguing - young, teenage love and early 20's too, the story captures the love, jealousy, excitement, anticipation, disappointment, every possible emotion without bitterness and /or hatred that fills todays world. By the end I wanted to know more, I want to read about 1969/70, I want to discover if the band and Scott ever get to make any cash in this business, maybe they had dodgy management who stole the lot. I want to see how Renza's relationship with Scott & her mother pans out, I want to see what happens to Stella and so on. Always leave them wanting more - I do. Thank you Jane & Christina - I loved your story and am happy to give it my 5 star rating.
October 19, 2020
"Only One Woman" is perhaps the best romantic book I read this year. It's marvelous to take a trip down the England of the '60s. From the very first line, I fell in love with Renza. Then came Scott and Stella. Jane Risdon is a fascinating writer who knows how to keep the readers engrossed with 400 + pages. Christina, another author continues very well and the way both the authors told the story, it looks like to me, only one author is writing the story. The typical romance of the English language and culture and the vintage love affair of the '60s have a nostalgic feeling. It reminds me for a while of the writings of Somerset Maugham and Graham Greene. Greene's "The End of an Affair" though it was set on a different theme. I love the inner dilemmas of Renza and Scott and Stella. It's a natural surrender to the youth. I finished the novel in three days. Amazing pace. Excellent character analysis and a bit of melancholy sadness that accompanies every love story. Jane and Christina Jones, thanks for this extraordinary love story. I think it will be read for ages to come. I am not saying more about the gripping storyline as I don't want to be a spoiler!
This novel makes me stand in a series of deja vus with myself. Any person who has fallen in love with a woman will feel that.
This novel makes me stand in a series of deja vus with myself. Any person who has fallen in love with a woman will feel that.
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