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One Lucky Summer
‘A lovely read … leaving you with a warm glow and a smile your face’ Jo Thomas ‘The perfect summer read … I loved everything about it!’ Bella Osborne ‘Fresh and original, haunting and evocative’ Jules Wake ‘A delicious ice-cream of a book’ Josie Lloyd With an air of faded splendour, Willoughby Hall was an idyllic childhood home to Ruben de Lacy. Gazing at it now, decades later, the memories are flooding back, and not all of them are welcome… In a tumbledown cottage in Willoughby’s grounds, Dolly and Olive King lived with their eccentric explorer father. One of the last things he did was to lay a treasure hunt before he died, but when events took an unexpected turn, Dolly and Olive left Willoughby for good, never to complete it. But when Ruben uncovers a secret message, hidden for decades, he knows he needs Olive and Dolly’s help. Can the three of them solve the treasure hunt, and will piecing together the clues help them understand what happened to their families that summer, all those years ago? A glorious summer read with a delightful cast of characters from the bestselling author of The Summer We Ran Away . Praise for One Lucky Summer : ‘A lovely read. A real journey, with wrong turns along the way and a delightful arrival at their destination. It's like a summer outing leaving you with a warm glow, and a smile your face’ Jo Thomas, author of Chasing the Italian Dream ‘This is the perfect summer read. Full of fun, mystery and warmth. I loved everything about it!’ Bella Osborne, author of The Promise of Summer ‘Fresh and original, haunting and evocative’ Jules Wake, author of The Spark ‘A delicious ice-cream of a book. Loved it! Essential holiday reading’ Josie Lloyd, author of The Cancer Ladies' Running Club ‘[A] must read’ Bella ‘A twisty, wistful novel perfect for long sunny afternoons’ New Praise for Jenny ‘You know you’re in for a treat when you open a Jenny Oliver book’ Debbie Johnson, bestselling author of Maybe One Day ‘The perfect summer read’ Sarah Morgan, bestselling author of The Summer Seekers
320 pages, Paperback
Published April 19, 2022
25 people are currently reading
338 people want to read
About the author
Jenny Oliver
24 books254 followersJenny Oliver is the bestselling author of The Summerhouse by the Sea - the PERFECT book for your summer reading! Out May 18th.
Her book The Sunshine and Biscotti Club, set in sunny Tuscany, was nominated for the Best Contemporary Romantic Novel at the RONA awards.
Jenny wrote her first book on holiday when she was ten years old. Illustrated with cut-out supermodels from her sister's Vogue, it was an epic, sweeping love story not so loosely based Dynasty.
Since then Jenny has gone on to get an English degree and a job in publishing that's taught her what it takes to write a novel (without the help of the supermodels). She wrote her first book The Parisian Christmas Bake Off on the beach in a notebook that would end up covered in sand each afternoon and damp from the sea. Nowadays her inspiration comes from her love of all things vintage, a fascination with other people’s relationships and an unwavering belief in happy ever after!
If you are looking for some bite-size reads why not try her Cherry Pie Island novella series. The first five books - The Grand Reopening of Dandelion Cafe, The Vintage Ice Cream Van Road Trip, The Great Allotment Proposal, One Summer Night at the Ritz and Four Weddings and a White Christmas are out NOW! Mouthwatering, feel-good and the ultimate escapism!
Follow her on Twitter @JenOliverBooks, Instagram jenoliverbooks or go to the website jennyoliverbooks.com to find out more about Jenny, her books and read her blog!
Her book The Sunshine and Biscotti Club, set in sunny Tuscany, was nominated for the Best Contemporary Romantic Novel at the RONA awards.
Jenny wrote her first book on holiday when she was ten years old. Illustrated with cut-out supermodels from her sister's Vogue, it was an epic, sweeping love story not so loosely based Dynasty.
Since then Jenny has gone on to get an English degree and a job in publishing that's taught her what it takes to write a novel (without the help of the supermodels). She wrote her first book The Parisian Christmas Bake Off on the beach in a notebook that would end up covered in sand each afternoon and damp from the sea. Nowadays her inspiration comes from her love of all things vintage, a fascination with other people’s relationships and an unwavering belief in happy ever after!
If you are looking for some bite-size reads why not try her Cherry Pie Island novella series. The first five books - The Grand Reopening of Dandelion Cafe, The Vintage Ice Cream Van Road Trip, The Great Allotment Proposal, One Summer Night at the Ritz and Four Weddings and a White Christmas are out NOW! Mouthwatering, feel-good and the ultimate escapism!
Follow her on Twitter @JenOliverBooks, Instagram jenoliverbooks or go to the website jennyoliverbooks.com to find out more about Jenny, her books and read her blog!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
August 9, 2021
This book was a pleasant surprise and blew away my expectations. I was anticipating a book that was more leaning towards romance and summer relationships, but this was more about family dynamics that are exposed as a result of this unusual treasure hunt. My first read from Oliver and I was not disappointed.
With the introduction of Willoughby Hall, I was prepared for lengthy discussions about Ruben’s inheritance. However, when he and his daughter, Zadie, discover a clue, old family friends reunite for a final treasure hunt. Initially I was confused about the purpose of this trail, but Oliver uses this as a method of bringing together Dolly and Olive, now estranged sisters who had lived in the grounds of Willoughby Hall. Therefore, over the course of the novel not only do we see the characters trying to decipher the clues, but how Dolly, Olive and Ruben interacted when they were children.
I liked how Oliver developed the different characters. Whilst Olive is very protective of her sister, it is clear that Dolly feels smothered. Circumstances lead to Olive and Dolly moving to London, leaving Ruben behind when they were teenagers. However, the consequence of this meant that Olive stepped up to a more mothering role and Ruben fell into the privileged De Lacy lifestyle. Therefore, when the three reunite as adults, you can see how their past has shaped them in present day: Olive is quite stand-offish and formal; Dolly has a tendency to rebel against anything; Ruben has fallen in to the cliché of a bachelor lifestyle. As you can see, they are all very contrasting people and the dynamics are challenged even further with Zadie, Dolly and Olive’s aunt, and Dolly’s work colleague.
I thought the treasure hunt would take more precedence in this story, although my excitement increased as the plot developed! Instead, the writer uses the trail as a frame for the drama existing between the three characters. Despite this, the treasure hunt gives clues that were so abstract, I had no idea how the characters would reach the answers! As they explore the grounds surrounding Willoughby Hall, the writer vividly describes the setting outside. It sounded rather idyllic and full of nature and I could truly picture Ruben, Dolly and Olive running around during their childhoods.
This was a surprising read and it grew on me as the story developed. Providing something a little bit different, this narrative certainly allowed some escapism and had me yearning to join the characters as they explored Willoughby and their pasts together.
With thanks to HQ Digital and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
With the introduction of Willoughby Hall, I was prepared for lengthy discussions about Ruben’s inheritance. However, when he and his daughter, Zadie, discover a clue, old family friends reunite for a final treasure hunt. Initially I was confused about the purpose of this trail, but Oliver uses this as a method of bringing together Dolly and Olive, now estranged sisters who had lived in the grounds of Willoughby Hall. Therefore, over the course of the novel not only do we see the characters trying to decipher the clues, but how Dolly, Olive and Ruben interacted when they were children.
I liked how Oliver developed the different characters. Whilst Olive is very protective of her sister, it is clear that Dolly feels smothered. Circumstances lead to Olive and Dolly moving to London, leaving Ruben behind when they were teenagers. However, the consequence of this meant that Olive stepped up to a more mothering role and Ruben fell into the privileged De Lacy lifestyle. Therefore, when the three reunite as adults, you can see how their past has shaped them in present day: Olive is quite stand-offish and formal; Dolly has a tendency to rebel against anything; Ruben has fallen in to the cliché of a bachelor lifestyle. As you can see, they are all very contrasting people and the dynamics are challenged even further with Zadie, Dolly and Olive’s aunt, and Dolly’s work colleague.
I thought the treasure hunt would take more precedence in this story, although my excitement increased as the plot developed! Instead, the writer uses the trail as a frame for the drama existing between the three characters. Despite this, the treasure hunt gives clues that were so abstract, I had no idea how the characters would reach the answers! As they explore the grounds surrounding Willoughby Hall, the writer vividly describes the setting outside. It sounded rather idyllic and full of nature and I could truly picture Ruben, Dolly and Olive running around during their childhoods.
This was a surprising read and it grew on me as the story developed. Providing something a little bit different, this narrative certainly allowed some escapism and had me yearning to join the characters as they explored Willoughby and their pasts together.
With thanks to HQ Digital and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 21, 2022
This book had a lot more depth to it than I was expecting!
Yes it is about a treasure hunt that brings friends and family back together, but it also brings out a lot of the dark(and fun) childhood past for all of the characters.
What I really liked about this book is that you could really see the characters change from the beginning to the end. It is always nice to see the acknowledgement of the past along with the learning moments as the plot unwinds. I felt a connection to all of the characters, but I think I liked Dolly's transformation the most (her tough attitude added some extra fun).
I felt that this book had a bit of romance, coming of age, friendships, and a mystery all in one. If you are looking for a light summer read, you will get way more than just that!
A big thank you to Harper360 for providing me a copy of this book for my honest review!
Yes it is about a treasure hunt that brings friends and family back together, but it also brings out a lot of the dark(and fun) childhood past for all of the characters.
What I really liked about this book is that you could really see the characters change from the beginning to the end. It is always nice to see the acknowledgement of the past along with the learning moments as the plot unwinds. I felt a connection to all of the characters, but I think I liked Dolly's transformation the most (her tough attitude added some extra fun).
I felt that this book had a bit of romance, coming of age, friendships, and a mystery all in one. If you are looking for a light summer read, you will get way more than just that!
A big thank you to Harper360 for providing me a copy of this book for my honest review!
June 2, 2022
I adored this book. It was a bit different from what I normally read because the romance wasn’t the main plot of the book but overall it was so great.
I not only loved the treasure hunt aspect of it but also how that hunt brought together friends/family. You truly see the growth in these characters from the very first page to the last page.
If you are looking for a summer read then this book is perfect for you!
Thank you so much Harper360 for a copy of this book! 💛
I not only loved the treasure hunt aspect of it but also how that hunt brought together friends/family. You truly see the growth in these characters from the very first page to the last page.
If you are looking for a summer read then this book is perfect for you!
Thank you so much Harper360 for a copy of this book! 💛
July 14, 2021
I really enjoyed this one by Jenny Oliver, this is t the first one I’ve read by her and I’ve always enjoyed her books. This one was no exception and it made me laugh. I’ve loved the characters and the descriptions of the mansion, also the fact that the story included a treasure hunt in it made it even more enjoyable. My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
August 5, 2021
Ruben de Lacy has returned to his family's home Willoughby Hall for one final time before selling it. Shallow, wealthy and good-looking Ruben is surprised when his ex-girlfriend Jenny arrives with their twelve year-old daughter Zadie in tow - apparently he had agreed to look after Zadie while Jenny and her new husband Barry go on their honeymoon.
Looking after a young chubby daughter with dubious dress sense isn't Ruben's idea of a good time. Then he stumbles across a little plastic box which is part of a treasure hunt which had been set up years before and never took place. The treasure hunts were a very big thing in his childhood and he can't envisage doing this without the two girls whose father created the hunt in the first place; Olive and Dolly.
Olive has just been dumped by her very boring and respectable boyfriend Mark. Dolly has just been suspended from her job as a police officer for disobeying orders. For their own reasons they both agree to return to Willoughby Hall for one last treasure hunt. But returning to Cornwall forces each of them to face what happened the night the treasure hunt was laid, to address feelings that have been suppressed for decades, and to make peace. It's going to be a heck of a summer!
I've got to say that I thought this was going to be more of a romantic comedy, a la Katie Fforde, based on the cover. Whereas, this is more women's fiction. There's a lot of remembering the past and giving voice to past feelings, about owning emotions and letting them go. Nevertheless, it was enjoyable to watch all three of them finally lay the ghosts to rest and look forward to the future.
Recommended for lazy summer reading in the garden.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Bumped for release.
Looking after a young chubby daughter with dubious dress sense isn't Ruben's idea of a good time. Then he stumbles across a little plastic box which is part of a treasure hunt which had been set up years before and never took place. The treasure hunts were a very big thing in his childhood and he can't envisage doing this without the two girls whose father created the hunt in the first place; Olive and Dolly.
Olive has just been dumped by her very boring and respectable boyfriend Mark. Dolly has just been suspended from her job as a police officer for disobeying orders. For their own reasons they both agree to return to Willoughby Hall for one last treasure hunt. But returning to Cornwall forces each of them to face what happened the night the treasure hunt was laid, to address feelings that have been suppressed for decades, and to make peace. It's going to be a heck of a summer!
I've got to say that I thought this was going to be more of a romantic comedy, a la Katie Fforde, based on the cover. Whereas, this is more women's fiction. There's a lot of remembering the past and giving voice to past feelings, about owning emotions and letting them go. Nevertheless, it was enjoyable to watch all three of them finally lay the ghosts to rest and look forward to the future.
Recommended for lazy summer reading in the garden.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Bumped for release.
April 29, 2022
TITLE: ONE LUCKY SUMMER
AUTHOR: Jenny Oliver
PUB DATE: 04.19.2022 Now Available
With an air of faded splendour, Willoughby Hall was an idyllic childhood home to Ruben de Lacy. Gazing at it now, decades later, the memories are flooding back, and not all of them are welcome…
In a tumbledown cottage in Willoughby’s grounds, Dolly and Olive King lived with their eccentric explorer father. One of the last things he did was to lay a treasure hunt before he died, but when events took an unexpected turn, Dolly and Olive left Willoughby for good, never to complete it.
But when Ruben uncovers a secret message, hidden for decades, he knows he needs Olive and Dolly’s help. Can the three of them solve the treasure hunt, and will piecing together the clues help them understand what happened to their families that summer, all those years ago?
REVIEW: One Lucky Summer by Jenny Oliver was one escape and cozy read I enjoyed! The writing was refreshing, with beautiful descriptions, great character development, and a fun plot that weaved together an exciting treasure hunt, and complex family dynamics, in a light hearted read.
AUTHOR: Jenny Oliver
PUB DATE: 04.19.2022 Now Available
With an air of faded splendour, Willoughby Hall was an idyllic childhood home to Ruben de Lacy. Gazing at it now, decades later, the memories are flooding back, and not all of them are welcome…
In a tumbledown cottage in Willoughby’s grounds, Dolly and Olive King lived with their eccentric explorer father. One of the last things he did was to lay a treasure hunt before he died, but when events took an unexpected turn, Dolly and Olive left Willoughby for good, never to complete it.
But when Ruben uncovers a secret message, hidden for decades, he knows he needs Olive and Dolly’s help. Can the three of them solve the treasure hunt, and will piecing together the clues help them understand what happened to their families that summer, all those years ago?
REVIEW: One Lucky Summer by Jenny Oliver was one escape and cozy read I enjoyed! The writing was refreshing, with beautiful descriptions, great character development, and a fun plot that weaved together an exciting treasure hunt, and complex family dynamics, in a light hearted read.
June 15, 2021
A beautiful book of fun, adventurous and bonding relationships. All the characters were rounded and well developed and they helped to make the book come alive.
When Olive and Dolly joined Reuben in the scavenger hunt, it made the story so much fun. This was my first book by this author and the writing made it a heart touching read. One of my most uplifting read that brought a smile to my face.
When Olive and Dolly joined Reuben in the scavenger hunt, it made the story so much fun. This was my first book by this author and the writing made it a heart touching read. One of my most uplifting read that brought a smile to my face.
February 25, 2022
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this advance copy in exchange for my honest review. I was definitely not expecting this one from Jenny Oliver, I went in thinking this was going to be a fun, lighthearted romance but this actually had a really nice character development and touched on the basis of family, memories and life’s journeys. I found myself craving more (I’m a very plot-driven reader, and I think I thought at times “I get it, let’s move on), but that might just be the literary nature of how it was written. I’d still recommend to readers as it was a fun journey. Again, thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advance reader copy!
July 9, 2021
Thanks to HQ and Netgalley for an advance copy of this book in exchange for a review.
Hugely enjoyable summer read. Friends and sisters torn apart years before unite to take part in a last treasure hunt - will it bring them all back together?
Hugely enjoyable summer read. Friends and sisters torn apart years before unite to take part in a last treasure hunt - will it bring them all back together?
June 29, 2021
This is a perfect summer read, I flew through this. A treasure hunt with a twist, not just to find treasure but an opportunity for everyone involved to face some ghosts, put the past behind them and explore new relationships. At times I did find the characters a little annoying and self centipedes but I feel this was the point because by the end of the book, I had grown to understand why and I loved the, by the end. A perfect beach read
June 10, 2021
I absolutely adored this book filled with wonderful characters. I fell in love with Reuben, Olive, Dolly, Fox, Zadie and Aunt Marge and was happily dragged along by the plot, imagining myself joking them on their hunt, not only for buried family treasure, but for peace and putting the past to rest. What’s not to love about a big house, a warm summer, the sea and a fabulous adventure. Highly recommended and I couldn’t put it down. I hope there is a sequel as I’d love to know what happens to the house, derelict cottage and the newly forged relationships. Fabulous!
December 14, 2023
This was a fun, gentle read, perfect for a summer afternoon or holiday read. The setting of most of the action, near the sea in Cornwall, made this feel very summery, although it wasn't the usual beachy read.
I enjoyed reading this book, I felt that the backstory and the well developed characters made for an interesting starting point, with sufficient uncertainty and small twists to keep the unusual and quite clever plot going. Having the character of the daughter, Zadie, there, brought another dimension to the usual will-they-won't-they romances,
I enjoyed reading this book, I felt that the backstory and the well developed characters made for an interesting starting point, with sufficient uncertainty and small twists to keep the unusual and quite clever plot going. Having the character of the daughter, Zadie, there, brought another dimension to the usual will-they-won't-they romances,
July 20, 2021
For Ruben De Lacy, growing up at Willoughby Manor was far from perfect, despite the idyllic location. Thankfully, he had the friendship of Olive and Dolly King who lived in a tumbledown cottage within the grounds of the estate with their eccentric father and free-spirited mother.
Now Ruben’s back to sell up, and the memories flooding back aren’t all good ones. But when he uncovers a clue to a treasure hunt that has remained hidden for decades, Ruben knows he is going to need Olive and Dolly’s help.
With the three estranged friends reunited at Willoughby, can they work together to solve the mystery and finally face what happened all those years ago when the treasure hunt was laid?
After only discovering Jenny Oliver last year, and absolutely loving her writing, I was thrilled to receive her latest novel on NetGalley.
One Lucky Summer offers a pleasing romantic comedy but with a little more depth than you would usually expect from this genre. I found the multi-strand narrative worked really well for this story as it allowed the reader to see how each protagonist had interpreted, and dealt with, the same scenarios very differently. I think this technique made Olive, Dolly and Ruben highly relatable, and it was interesting to see how circumstance and unresolved feelings contributed to their personalities as adults.
Set against the backdrop of the Cornish coastline, this book is filled with dazzling descriptions that really brought the Willoughby estate to life. Almost as though it was a character in its own right. Having lived in Cornwall my whole life until 4 months ago this setting was somewhat bittersweet. The sights, smells and sounds of the coastal woodland and seaside were so impeccably written that they came alive off the page and even those that haven’t experienced this landscape would find them tangible.
This is the perfect story for a few hours of summer escapism, and I highly recommend.
* Thanks to HQ, via NetGalley, for this ARC *
For more reviews, please visit: https://twiabblog.wixsite.com/theworl...
Now Ruben’s back to sell up, and the memories flooding back aren’t all good ones. But when he uncovers a clue to a treasure hunt that has remained hidden for decades, Ruben knows he is going to need Olive and Dolly’s help.
With the three estranged friends reunited at Willoughby, can they work together to solve the mystery and finally face what happened all those years ago when the treasure hunt was laid?
After only discovering Jenny Oliver last year, and absolutely loving her writing, I was thrilled to receive her latest novel on NetGalley.
One Lucky Summer offers a pleasing romantic comedy but with a little more depth than you would usually expect from this genre. I found the multi-strand narrative worked really well for this story as it allowed the reader to see how each protagonist had interpreted, and dealt with, the same scenarios very differently. I think this technique made Olive, Dolly and Ruben highly relatable, and it was interesting to see how circumstance and unresolved feelings contributed to their personalities as adults.
Set against the backdrop of the Cornish coastline, this book is filled with dazzling descriptions that really brought the Willoughby estate to life. Almost as though it was a character in its own right. Having lived in Cornwall my whole life until 4 months ago this setting was somewhat bittersweet. The sights, smells and sounds of the coastal woodland and seaside were so impeccably written that they came alive off the page and even those that haven’t experienced this landscape would find them tangible.
This is the perfect story for a few hours of summer escapism, and I highly recommend.
* Thanks to HQ, via NetGalley, for this ARC *
For more reviews, please visit: https://twiabblog.wixsite.com/theworl...
August 11, 2021
Willoughby Manor near the sea in Cornwall is a beautiful old Manor House that has been abandoned for years. It’s owner, Ruben De Lacy has decided to sell up and visit one last time before he does. As he revisits he remembers the good times he had there with Dolly and Olive who lived in the cottage in the manor grounds with their free-spirited parents. The three of them had so much fun and laughter there until it all went wrong decades before and they all left.
During his time back at Willoughby Ruben discovers that there is a treasure hunt that has been left on the grounds for his daughters to discover but as they left so hastily all those years before it was never solved! Ruben decides he must reunite the sisters and solve the treasure hunt together with them, the women must learn to let go of what happened all those years ago and solve this riddle at a time in their life where they are at a crossroads. They must forget the memories of what happened there and precious time together is exactly what is needed. Can they complete the hunt that their father so painstakingly set up for them and at the same time heal old wounds?
I absolutely adored reading this book - it was so easy escape into its pages with the stunning setting and fabulous characters. It is an easy read and perfect holiday book. I loved Dolly’s character and eventually Ruben too. The way that they came together to put differences aside is heartwarming and I couldn’t wait to see where the treasure hunt would lead them and find out what their father had to say through the hunt. The writing flows beautifully and I was really happy with the ending, finding myself completely attached to the place and characters.
A gorgeous summer book to transport you away and I thoroughly recommend it.
During his time back at Willoughby Ruben discovers that there is a treasure hunt that has been left on the grounds for his daughters to discover but as they left so hastily all those years before it was never solved! Ruben decides he must reunite the sisters and solve the treasure hunt together with them, the women must learn to let go of what happened all those years ago and solve this riddle at a time in their life where they are at a crossroads. They must forget the memories of what happened there and precious time together is exactly what is needed. Can they complete the hunt that their father so painstakingly set up for them and at the same time heal old wounds?
I absolutely adored reading this book - it was so easy escape into its pages with the stunning setting and fabulous characters. It is an easy read and perfect holiday book. I loved Dolly’s character and eventually Ruben too. The way that they came together to put differences aside is heartwarming and I couldn’t wait to see where the treasure hunt would lead them and find out what their father had to say through the hunt. The writing flows beautifully and I was really happy with the ending, finding myself completely attached to the place and characters.
A gorgeous summer book to transport you away and I thoroughly recommend it.
July 28, 2021
One Lucky Summer by Jenny Oliver is a powerful contemporary novel about overcoming the past.
Childhood friends meet again after many years. As they explore old haunts, the past memories come flooding back. Some have been imprisoned by the past. They need to face it, deal with it and move forwards into the future.
We witness that fears we had as children will remain as we grow older unless we change our outlook or our behaviour. We see a character afraid to love and who therefore keeps others at arm’s length.
Actions of parents impact their children for life. There was an event in childhood which looms large in the lives of three adults even now.
The characters were well drawn and realistic. I loved the young girl who was wise beyond her years, full of knowledge and life.
You are never too old to have a new beginning and to put events of the past behind you.
One Lucky Summer was a powerful read that I thoroughly enjoyed and read in just one sitting.
I received a free copy from Harper Collins via Net Galley. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
Childhood friends meet again after many years. As they explore old haunts, the past memories come flooding back. Some have been imprisoned by the past. They need to face it, deal with it and move forwards into the future.
We witness that fears we had as children will remain as we grow older unless we change our outlook or our behaviour. We see a character afraid to love and who therefore keeps others at arm’s length.
Actions of parents impact their children for life. There was an event in childhood which looms large in the lives of three adults even now.
The characters were well drawn and realistic. I loved the young girl who was wise beyond her years, full of knowledge and life.
You are never too old to have a new beginning and to put events of the past behind you.
One Lucky Summer was a powerful read that I thoroughly enjoyed and read in just one sitting.
I received a free copy from Harper Collins via Net Galley. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
July 28, 2021
One Lucky Summer is the latest book from Jenny Oliver. It follows the story of Reuben, Dolly and Olive. Willoughby Hall was Reuben’s idyllic childhood home. Dolly and Olive lived in a cottage on the grounds. When Reuben uncovers a secret treasure hunt from the past, he calls on Dolly and Olive to help solve the clues. This was a fun read with some great characters that I enjoyed. It wasn’t my favourite book by Jenny but still very enjoyable. I would rate this book 3.5 stars. Thank you to NetGalley, HQ and the author for the chance to review.
July 15, 2021
Wow!! I have so loved reading this book! Made me smile, got me thinking, what a treat!
The characters are just brilliant, the story is involving, thought provoking, and so well thought out.
Ruben, Olive and Dolly have led very different lives since they were teenagers together in Cornwall, now they are meeting up to resolve clues to a long forgotten treasure hunt which brings up what happened with their families back then, and how it had formed their lives.
Especially loved the character of Fox, and the adventures these three got up to.
Great writing, great reading!
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to NetGalley for the early read
The characters are just brilliant, the story is involving, thought provoking, and so well thought out.
Ruben, Olive and Dolly have led very different lives since they were teenagers together in Cornwall, now they are meeting up to resolve clues to a long forgotten treasure hunt which brings up what happened with their families back then, and how it had formed their lives.
Especially loved the character of Fox, and the adventures these three got up to.
Great writing, great reading!
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to NetGalley for the early read
February 20, 2022
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to receive an arc in exchange for an honest review! All thoughts and opinions are my own!
I haven’t read anything by Jenny Oliver- until now. I am so shocked that she hasn’t crossed my radar! I thought this book was just so cute, perfect summer reading/beach read- character growth is at the forefront. I’ll be adding so many of Jenny Oliver’s books to my TBR- she writes so well, you can almost see this play out as a drama series or movie. Loved it!
I haven’t read anything by Jenny Oliver- until now. I am so shocked that she hasn’t crossed my radar! I thought this book was just so cute, perfect summer reading/beach read- character growth is at the forefront. I’ll be adding so many of Jenny Oliver’s books to my TBR- she writes so well, you can almost see this play out as a drama series or movie. Loved it!
July 11, 2021
One Lucky Summer - Jenny Oliver
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to NetGalley and HQ and I am leaving this review voluntarily
With an air of faded splendour, Willoughby Hall was an idyllic childhood home to Ruben de Lacy. Gazing at it now, decades later, the memories are flooding back, and not all of them are welcome…
In a tumbledown cottage in Willoughby’s grounds, Dolly and Olive King lived with their eccentric explorer father. One of the last things he did was to lay a treasure hunt before he died, but when events took an unexpected turn, Dolly and Olive left Willoughby for good, never to complete it.
This is a great read for a lazy summer afternoon, or to be read whilst on holiday. It is a fun plot, full of adventure and has well-developed characters brought together by an uncompleted treasure hunt.
Rating 4/5
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to NetGalley and HQ and I am leaving this review voluntarily
With an air of faded splendour, Willoughby Hall was an idyllic childhood home to Ruben de Lacy. Gazing at it now, decades later, the memories are flooding back, and not all of them are welcome…
In a tumbledown cottage in Willoughby’s grounds, Dolly and Olive King lived with their eccentric explorer father. One of the last things he did was to lay a treasure hunt before he died, but when events took an unexpected turn, Dolly and Olive left Willoughby for good, never to complete it.
This is a great read for a lazy summer afternoon, or to be read whilst on holiday. It is a fun plot, full of adventure and has well-developed characters brought together by an uncompleted treasure hunt.
Rating 4/5
November 15, 2021
I was expected a light hearted and frothy romance however this was more twisty and wistful. Exploration of relationships and connections to the past are the basis of this story. It’s enjoyable but there’s something missing to make it incredible.
Thank you Netgalley.
Thank you Netgalley.
August 3, 2021
An easy to read, lighthearted story perfect for a summer’s day. I loved the treasure hunt element that brought old friends together and memories to the forefront. The descriptions of the old house and grounds beautifully brought to life.
September 7, 2021
Thoroughly enjoyable. I will be reading more by Jenny Oliver!
*Thanks to Edelweiss and the publisher for providing an e-galley in exchange for an honest review.
*Thanks to Edelweiss and the publisher for providing an e-galley in exchange for an honest review.
January 1, 2022
Well I wasn't expecting to see a real life treasure hunt in any of the books I was reading this holiday, but that is definitely what's at the centre of this book.
Well that, and the chance for Ruben, Olive and Dolly to revisit their childhood and see if they can make sense of their memories,
Add in Zadie, Ruben's daughter who he barely knows but is in charge of for two weeks, and who is a complete chatterbox and you have a great combination of factors to keep you reading.
I adored Zadie, with her quick fire either questions or firing pieces of information at you non stop, without a chance for anyone to respond or breathe!
It was her energy in addition to Dolly's feistiness and ability to keep landing up in sticky situations that had me hooked.
I found the pages of this book whizzed by while I was barely able to keep up with how much I was enjoying it and how quickly the percentage meter was ticking upwards.
I really loved these characters and once again Jenny Oliver has written a fabulous story.
Thank you to HQ and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
Well that, and the chance for Ruben, Olive and Dolly to revisit their childhood and see if they can make sense of their memories,
Add in Zadie, Ruben's daughter who he barely knows but is in charge of for two weeks, and who is a complete chatterbox and you have a great combination of factors to keep you reading.
I adored Zadie, with her quick fire either questions or firing pieces of information at you non stop, without a chance for anyone to respond or breathe!
It was her energy in addition to Dolly's feistiness and ability to keep landing up in sticky situations that had me hooked.
I found the pages of this book whizzed by while I was barely able to keep up with how much I was enjoying it and how quickly the percentage meter was ticking upwards.
I really loved these characters and once again Jenny Oliver has written a fabulous story.
Thank you to HQ and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
June 23, 2021
3.5 rounded up to 4
Ruben de Lacy is back at the home where he grew up. He finds the first clue to a long forgotten treasure a hunt. A treasure hunt laid by the father of Olive and Dolly King. The King family had lived in a cottage on the estate until one fateful summer when everything had changed. With the rediscovery of the clue Ruben knows he must let Olive and Dolly know so they can complete it.
This novel is the perfect summer read. It has some romance, a treasure hunt and lots of history needing resolution between the main characters. Dolly and Olive are both very different but likeable characters, both having their own issues stemming from the summer in question. Ruben starts off as very shallow and unlikable, but by the end of the story redeems himself. It’s happy endings all round, a lovely bit of escapism.
Ruben de Lacy is back at the home where he grew up. He finds the first clue to a long forgotten treasure a hunt. A treasure hunt laid by the father of Olive and Dolly King. The King family had lived in a cottage on the estate until one fateful summer when everything had changed. With the rediscovery of the clue Ruben knows he must let Olive and Dolly know so they can complete it.
This novel is the perfect summer read. It has some romance, a treasure hunt and lots of history needing resolution between the main characters. Dolly and Olive are both very different but likeable characters, both having their own issues stemming from the summer in question. Ruben starts off as very shallow and unlikable, but by the end of the story redeems himself. It’s happy endings all round, a lovely bit of escapism.
September 3, 2021
I felt like I was stepping into an updated Rosamunde Pilcher novel because of the nicely realized country home descriptions, but it had the feel of authors Jenny Colgan and TJ Klune as well for its relationships and romance and touch of magical adventure. Five people gather, two estranged sisters, a former lover and friend, a perceptive co-worker, and a precocious twelve-year-old and daughter of a reluctant father, to do one last treasure hunt only just discovered. It was put together many years before by the wandering adventurer father of sisters, Olive and Dolly. There are some hilarious scenes and conversations in this book, a touch of romance, and an affecting father-daughter reunion. This is a perfect summer read, and it will be available for that in April 2022.
Thanks to the publisher and Edelweiss for an advance copy.
Thanks to the publisher and Edelweiss for an advance copy.
August 6, 2021
From the cover of the book I was expecting a light hearted romantic comedy and a good read, however although this was indeed a good read it was much more emotional and heart searching than I was anticipating.
We meet our main characters, Reuben, Olive and Dolly who grew up together in the grounds of Reuben’s wealthy parents home where Olive and Dolly lived in the grounds with their angst ridden mum and madcap adventurer dad.
Many years have passed since their childhood and at the start of this book when we see Reuben agreeing reluctantly to look after his daughter who he has no idea how to parent while his ex goes in her honeymoon. Reuben is very selfish, thinks he is still young and handsome and is ill at ease with quirky teenage girls! Olive has just been dumped by her boring boyfriend and wonders how her life has become so boring too; then we meet Dolly who has just been suspended from her police job for recklessness. In the past the trio loved solving treasure hunts set by Olive and Dolly’s dad and when a final one they never finished comes to light all three find themselves together where they were when all of their lives fell apart all those years ago.
This is a really well told story and the characters make you want to hear more. I went from initially hating Reuben to then cheering him on in his attempts to be a decent dad and finding out more about the very complex relationships between him, Olive and Dolly told from all of their perspectives made for a page turner of a book.
Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher and the author for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
We meet our main characters, Reuben, Olive and Dolly who grew up together in the grounds of Reuben’s wealthy parents home where Olive and Dolly lived in the grounds with their angst ridden mum and madcap adventurer dad.
Many years have passed since their childhood and at the start of this book when we see Reuben agreeing reluctantly to look after his daughter who he has no idea how to parent while his ex goes in her honeymoon. Reuben is very selfish, thinks he is still young and handsome and is ill at ease with quirky teenage girls! Olive has just been dumped by her boring boyfriend and wonders how her life has become so boring too; then we meet Dolly who has just been suspended from her police job for recklessness. In the past the trio loved solving treasure hunts set by Olive and Dolly’s dad and when a final one they never finished comes to light all three find themselves together where they were when all of their lives fell apart all those years ago.
This is a really well told story and the characters make you want to hear more. I went from initially hating Reuben to then cheering him on in his attempts to be a decent dad and finding out more about the very complex relationships between him, Olive and Dolly told from all of their perspectives made for a page turner of a book.
Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher and the author for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 6, 2021
A crumbling house full of faded glory and painful memories is what greets Ruben when he returns to his childhood home the last time before he sells it. He's a father, but this is not something he excels at, so forgetting he is looking after his daughter for two weeks is nothing new. When they discover the first clue to a treasure hunt, his childhood and teenage memories come flooding back and make him contact Dolly and Olive, his two fellow treasure hunters.
Olive has settled for comfort and doesn't realise it until her lover leaves her for someone else. Ruben's request stirs up old memories but is she brave enough to face them. Dolly is driven and dangerous. When she's suspended from the job she loves with her annoying partner, an invitation back to her childhood is the best on offer.
This is an emotional and entertaining story. The soul-searching, acceptance and forgiveness unfold in a heartwarming way. It examines relationships, family, first love and friendships. There is gentle romance for the two couples and the building of a daughter and father bond. The characters are easy to empathise with, even Ruben, as his past is revealed. There is mystery, secrets and tragedy revealed in a story full of sensory imagery and believable emotions.
A charming Summer read with engaging characters.
I received a copy of this book from HQ via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Olive has settled for comfort and doesn't realise it until her lover leaves her for someone else. Ruben's request stirs up old memories but is she brave enough to face them. Dolly is driven and dangerous. When she's suspended from the job she loves with her annoying partner, an invitation back to her childhood is the best on offer.
This is an emotional and entertaining story. The soul-searching, acceptance and forgiveness unfold in a heartwarming way. It examines relationships, family, first love and friendships. There is gentle romance for the two couples and the building of a daughter and father bond. The characters are easy to empathise with, even Ruben, as his past is revealed. There is mystery, secrets and tragedy revealed in a story full of sensory imagery and believable emotions.
A charming Summer read with engaging characters.
I received a copy of this book from HQ via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
August 7, 2021
In this story we meet Ruben & Zadie as Zadie arrives to spend the summer with her Dad, straight away we get an insight as to the strain of their relationship as Ruben struggles to get to know his daughter. Whilst out exploring they discover a plastic box that had been left behind many years ago from a treasure hunt that never happened. This unlocks the door to some long forgotten memories as Ruben reaches out to the sisters that the treasure hunt was designed for.
During the first half of the story we get to meet everyone who is going to play a vital role in the story and get an insight into their life styles all these years on and their personalities. The summer that happened many years ago changed everyone's life unimaginably and now is time for them all to put those thoughts and feelings to bed so they can move on with their lives.
I found the second half of the book gained momentum really quickly and the raw emotions start to become evident as difficult conversations take place. The treasure hunt plays a key role throughout this story and we got to learn more about everyone as they worked to find clues and learn more about eachother.
Another great read from an author I always enjoy, this book made me laugh amongst all of the underlying emotion of the story. A great story about turning lemons into lemonade.
During the first half of the story we get to meet everyone who is going to play a vital role in the story and get an insight into their life styles all these years on and their personalities. The summer that happened many years ago changed everyone's life unimaginably and now is time for them all to put those thoughts and feelings to bed so they can move on with their lives.
I found the second half of the book gained momentum really quickly and the raw emotions start to become evident as difficult conversations take place. The treasure hunt plays a key role throughout this story and we got to learn more about everyone as they worked to find clues and learn more about eachother.
Another great read from an author I always enjoy, this book made me laugh amongst all of the underlying emotion of the story. A great story about turning lemons into lemonade.
June 30, 2023
Spending two weeks with a daughter he barely knows isn't high on Ruben's priority list. Yet, here he is standing in the driveway of Willoughby Hall, his family's former home, with Zadie, who has a habit of always comparing him to her new step-dad no matter how small the job. After a rainy evening, the two stumble upon something Ruben hasn't seen in years...a clue to a treasure hunt. Dolly & Olive lived in a cottage on Willoughby Hall's property when Ruben was a child. The girls grew up with an eccentric father who was always out on explorations but to keep Dolly & Olive included in his passions he would create elaborate treasure hunts for them around the property. Now having a clue to what would have been Dolly & Olive's last connection to their father Ruben decides to get in contact with his long lost friends in the hopes that they can follow the clues and maybe get back more than buried treasure. I was expecting "One Lucky Summer" to be a bright and breezy summer read but instead what I got was a little tougher. Family drama, long held resentment, generational trauma and at least one relationship that I could not get behind at all. Though "One Lucky Summer" was a good read, don't be fooled by the pretty, romantic looking cover, it's not the rom-com you think you are getting. Thank you to NetGalley and Harper360 for a copy in exchange for an honest review.
August 9, 2021
Ruben de Lacy is back at his childhood home Willoughby Hall and desperately trying to find WiFi signal to get in touch with the estate agent to sell it, yet he can manage to upload vanity pictures in his Barbour to Instagram. Thanks to said Insta picture the mother of his child manages to find out where he is to drop their daughter Zadie off while she goes away on honeymoon (which had totally slipped his mind, even though he says otherwise).
Over breakfast water starts coming in through the ceiling so in a desperate attempt to be as good as Barry, the new stepdad, he decides to fix it. Cue a falling off ladder in the rain on to a garden ornament. The remains of which leads to the discovery of a blue plastic box.
It seems the treasure hunt is back on, he just needs his old hunting friends Dolly and Olive there to play too.
This is a charming and beautifully tender story of reflection and reconnecting that manages to also be full of adventure and humour. I loved all of the characters, even the selfish Ruben managed to redeem himself. They all have things going on in their lives and a past that needs resolving and with the help of the treasure hunt, Zadie and a wily black cat they may just find what they need.
Over breakfast water starts coming in through the ceiling so in a desperate attempt to be as good as Barry, the new stepdad, he decides to fix it. Cue a falling off ladder in the rain on to a garden ornament. The remains of which leads to the discovery of a blue plastic box.
It seems the treasure hunt is back on, he just needs his old hunting friends Dolly and Olive there to play too.
This is a charming and beautifully tender story of reflection and reconnecting that manages to also be full of adventure and humour. I loved all of the characters, even the selfish Ruben managed to redeem himself. They all have things going on in their lives and a past that needs resolving and with the help of the treasure hunt, Zadie and a wily black cat they may just find what they need.
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