A Year of Mr Maybes

by Judy Leigh, Phyllida Nash (Narrator)

Never say never to falling in love…

Val didn’t expect to be starting again in her seventies, but when life gives her lemons, Val is determined to make lemonade.

Settled into her new home – a picture-perfect fisherman’s cottage in the small Cornish seaside town of Lowenstowe – Val is ready to start a new chapter. And with her son due to get married next Christmas, there’s also the little job of finding herself a plus-one to help her face her ex-husband and his new girlfriend.

With the support of her neighbour Connie, and after decades of married life, Val takes the plunge back into the world of dating with trepidation and excitement. But can she remember how the single life works, let alone what her type is? There seem to be plenty of Mr Maybes, but no sign of Mr Right.

As the year passes, and as friendships and community life flourish, Val begins to blossom. And as Christmas approach, she might just decide she doesn’t need that plus-one after all - although never say never...

Genres: Romance, Fiction, Audiobook, Humor, Contemporary, Womens Fiction

362 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 29, 2022

About the author

Judy Leigh has lived all over the UK from Liverpool to Cornwall, but currently resides in Somerset. After teaching theatre, writing lyrics for a punk band and setting up Shakespeare Festivals, she completed an MA in Professional Writing.

She is a prolific writer, but when she is not at her computer you will find her on the beach, walking, doing yoga or splashing in the sea. She is also a Reiki healer, a vegan and an animal lover. She has three black cats and she enjoys live music, theatre and football.

Reviews

[Rachel Gilbey · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a truly lovely story, and another fabulous book from the always talented Judy Leigh.

It's about coming into your own as a woman in your seventies after a divorce, and learning whether or not you really need a man by your side.

There is the possibility of potential Mr Maybe's who could be picked and asked to accompany Val to her sons Wedding at the end of the year, so we do get to meat a fair few men, but not necessarily dating, just potential targets that come into Val's life.

Val is also making a variety of new friends in her new local community having only just moved to Lowenstowe. There are a whole variety of characters which all completely captured my heart for all manner of reasons.

There is a clear theme of keeping beaches clean, and caring for your environment throughout the book, and I loved seeing how Val and everyone joins together in the hopes of raising awareness for these sorts of issues. I loved how the community was banding together for a common cause.

I also really liked Val's idea of favour boxes, and the way she got on with all of her neighbours. And we get to learn so many character's stories and get to know them fairly well that I found I was wishing good things on everyone.

It's a very really enjoyable book that I had a great time reading it.

Thank you to Boldwood Books and Netgalley which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.

[Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Judy Leigh really does write the most wonderful characters. I felt for Val from the book’s opening pages when her Christmas dinner was ruined by discovering her husband’s affair – and cheered her on every single step of the way as she moved to her new home, in her seventies and not used to being alone, and set about making a new life for herself. She discovers that she doesn’t need a man to make her complete, and fills her life with friends and a whole range of activities – but there is the pressing problem of the need to find a plus-one to take to her son’s wedding at the end of the year. With the enthusiastic support of her new friend Connie (also a great older character, with a particular poignancy to her own situation), Val crosses paths with quite a few Mr Maybes over the course of the year – some with considerably more promise than others.

But while the search for a companion might drive the timeline, and it certainly sees Val distinctly out of her comfort zone a number of times, it wasn’t the main thing I enjoyed about this book – what I really loved was the friendships she found. This book is filled to overflowing with a range of perfectly drawn individuals who make up a true community who embrace her and take her to their hearts, helping her find her way and picking her up when she stumbles. Her immediate neighbours are just superb – on one side there’s Alice and Kev, their over-indulged dog Dolly the one who really rules the roost, and on the other side the elusive and invisible Ben, their absence of contact no obstacle to the acts of kindness that flow between them. Another key character is elderly (perhaps that should be “even more elderly”…) eco-warrior Loveday, fierce in her defence of what she believes in, rallying the whole community, but disturbingly reticent about her home life. And there are so many more – I particularly liked Val’s friendship with young Ollie who shares his sage and considered relationship advice.

The Cornish seaside town of Lowenstowe is particularly vividly drawn, and I really felt entirely at home there – if you’re looking for somewhere to start again, I don’t think you could possibly find anywhere much better. There’s such a tremendous warmth and strong feel of community about this whole book, sweeping you up and making you feel that anything’s possible – and it really is a quite wonderful character-driven story that kept me entirely involved throughout, gloriously entangled in everyone’s lives while following their separate stories. And there are so many perfect emotional touches and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments as Val discovers how brave she can be and makes her journey towards contented independence. If I’m absolutely honest, the only thing I wasn’t quite so sure about was the book’s ending – although it’s entirely appropriate and very well done, 100% feel-good and didn’t detract one iota from my enjoyment, I must confess that I was almost disappointed (and I know this probably tells you rather more about me than the book… see what you think!).

Every book I read from Judy Leigh becomes my new favourite, and this one is no exception – I totally loved it, and recommend it really highly.

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

Taking place over twelve months, readers witness the fall and rise of Val: a woman who discovers her husband is having an affair on Christmas day. Her heartbreak is palpable and I really admired her strength in the opening chapters, determined to enjoy her Christmas day once and for all.

What follows is Val’s quest, with her new friends, to find a potential date for her son’s wedding the following Christmas. At first, I really enjoyed the little “meet cutes” as Val encounters potential dates that could help her heal her broken heart. There are many attempts at trying to reconnect in the dating world and Val soon discovers that finding a plus-one isn’t going to be as easy as she thought. However, my enthusiasm towards the plot did start to wane around the half way mark because I found the story became more repetitive. It was fun seeing Val getting out and about and I especially liked the bond she forms with her neighbour yet, it just felt like something was missing from the plot development.

I don’t think it helped that I particularly liked Loveday and the subplot. Despite recognising the importance of the protecting the planet, I thought Loveday was a bit of a busy body and I found some of her actions were grating, even though she has her friends interests at heart. The developing theme of the environment came across a bit strong, like the writer is lecturing readers, and I think this detracted the romantic-comedy that had started off so well.

Ben’s character was really surprising and I liked how Leigh creates such a mystery about him. Personally, I would have liked to have seen this featured more, taking the spotlight away from Loveday, because I think this would have added more depth to the novel. He is portrayed as quite a gentle soul and one I would have liked to get to know more.

Having recently returned from Cornwall, it was great to be transported to this lovely part of the world through fiction! This was a pleasant read but it didn’t completely set my heart on fire. I was rooting for Val to find her happiness but thought Leigh could have mixed up the story a bit more so it wasn’t so repetitive over the twelve months.

With thanks to Boldwood books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Lucinda · Rating 4 out of 5]

A delightful story of starting again and finding yourself, friendship, and maybe, even a new romance in your older years. Set in a small town in Cornwall.

[Judy Christiana · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have read seven of this author’s books previously. When I see a new book written by her, I immediately want to read it. I don’t read the blurb of the story; I know I will love what she created. I am very sorry to say that in the case of this book, that is not true. While I think the book is written well, it was not a book meant for me, and I did not enjoy reading it. I mainly read to finish the book.

I found almost all the characters to be struggling with their life and complaining, including a dog, who honestly was on my nerves the entire time. (Gosh, have they never heard of training?) I like two minor characters, and I probably liked them since they are not in the story very much.

I also felt that I was being lectured about the environment and while it is a great passion to have, I read to escape life and I felt like this book was worst than my life with all the problems it dealt with.

I am rating 3 stars, since the book itself was written well, with a thought-out, believable plot, but was just not my cup of tea. I am sure other readers will enjoy this story more than I did. I look forward to other books by Judy Leigh.

I want to thank Boldwood Books and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity of reading the advance reader copy. My review is my own opinion, not influenced by receiving the ARC.

[Carla · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love Judy Leigh's books about love, life, community, friendship, and self-discovery with mature characters. In A Year of Mr Maybes, we meet Val, a woman in her seventies that finds out her husband of over 40 years is carrying on a relationship with a younger woman. It is Christmas Day and she locks him out, eats her dinner alone and begins making plans on moving forward without him. A year later, she has moved into her own cottage in the small Cornish seaside town of Lowenstowe. She meets her neighbours and becomes part of the community. When her son lets her know he is getting married in a year, she decides she would like to bring a plus one to the wedding. She embarks on a year of meeting men and dating trying to find someone to bring to the wedding. Along the way, she meets some Mr. Maybes, but finds friendship, community and herself along the way.

A Year of Mr Maybes is a very really enjoyable book that I had a great time reading. Being over the age of 60, I always enjoy books with characters closer to my age. It was nice to see Val meeting men and getting to know them. The same issues are there at any age, with some men only looking out for themselves and their needs and others being fun and caring. This isn't a romance book in the sense of two people meeting and falling in love, but a story about finding someone you can be happy with, but also finding out how you can be happy alone as well. I really enjoyed meeting all the characters that lived in this small village. They complement each other, care about each other and the environment. There is a storyline about protecting the beaches, keeping them clean and raising awareness for these issues. Does Val find her plus one? You will have to read this delightful, humorous story to find out. I did a read/listen to this story, narrated by Phyllida Nash. She does a nice job with this story giving voice to the various characters and adding wonderful expression and emotion. I enjoyed both formats of this book and recommend it to those who enjoy stories with mature characters, humour and new beginnings, no matter what age you are.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been a fan of Judy’s work for a while now. I haven’t quite caught up with everything that she has written but I am getting there. I love the way in which she writes such fun and feel good stories. I read the synopsis of ‘A Year Of Mr Maybes’ and it certainly sounded like the sort of read I have come to expect from Judy – a fun and feel good story about starting over. Well it was certainly that and so much more. I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘A Year Of Mr Maybes’ but more about that in a bit.
As soon as I started reading ‘A Year Of Mr Maybes’ I knew that I was reading something special and that I would find it increasingly difficult to put the book to one side for any length of time. I was drawn into the story from the start, which has a lot to do with the fact that the lead female character of Val was so likeable- she is a bright, bubbly and funny lady, who has to carve a new life out for herself. I had to know how life turned out for her and her friends and whether or not Val managed to get the ‘happy ever after’ ending that she so deserved. I would pick the book up only intending to read a chapter or two but I would end up becoming so wrapped up in the story and in the lives of the different characters that I would still be sat there reading over several chapters and an hour later. All too quickly I reached the end of ‘A Year Of Mr Maybes’ and I had to say goodbye to Val and her friends. I found ‘A Year Of Mr Maybes’ to be the true definition of an unputdownable, page turner and a delight to read.
‘A Year Of Mr Maybes’ is superbly written but then I have come to expect nothing less from Judy Leigh. Judy has one of those writing styles that is easy to get used to and easy to get along with. In fact reading one of Judy’s books feels more like a chat between friends rather than reading an actual book. I hope that makes sense. For me, the story hit the ground running and maintained a steady pace throughout. I love the way in which Judy writes such fun and feel good stories that involve strong friendships and new beginnings. I love the way in which Judy shows that just because you reach a certain age, it doesn’t mean that life has to end but instead life can be fun and there are lots of adventures to be had. Judy clearly cares about her characters and this shines through in the very vivid and realistic way in which she describes them. She describes them so vividly and realistically that they seem just as real as you and I. I love the way in which Judy makes the reader feel as though they are part of the story and at the heart of the action.
In short, I totally and utterly adored reading ‘A Year Of Mr Maybes’ and I would recommend this book to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Judy’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
I have been a fan of Judy’s work for a while now. I haven’t quite caught up with everything that she has written but I am getting there. I love the way in which she writes such fun and feel good stories. I read the synopsis of ‘A Year Of Mr Maybes’ and it certainly sounded like the sort of read I have come to expect from Judy – a fun and feel good story about starting over. Well it was certainly that and so much more. I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘A Year Of Mr Maybes’ but more about that in a bit.
As soon as I started reading ‘A Year Of Mr Maybes’ I knew that I was reading something special and that I would find it increasingly difficult to put the book to one side for any length of time. I was drawn into the story from the start, which has a lot to do with the fact that the lead female character of Val was so likeable- she is a bright, bubbly and funny lady, who has to carve a new life out for herself. I had to know how life turned out for her and her friends and whether or not Val managed to get the ‘happy ever after’ ending that she so deserved. I would pick the book up only intending to read a chapter or two but I would end up becoming so wrapped up in the story and in the lives of the different characters that I would still be sat there reading over several chapters and an hour later. All too quickly I reached the end of ‘A Year Of Mr Maybes’ and I had to say goodbye to Val and her friends. I found ‘A Year Of Mr Maybes’ to be the true definition of an unputdownable, page turner and a delight to read.
‘A Year Of Mr Maybes’ is superbly written but then I have come to expect nothing less from Judy Leigh. Judy has one of those writing styles that is easy to get used to and easy to get along with. In fact reading one of Judy’s books feels more like a chat between friends rather than reading an actual book. I hope that makes sense. For me, the story hit the ground running and maintained a steady pace throughout. I love the way in which Judy writes such fun and feel good stories that involve strong friendships and new beginnings. I love the way in which Judy shows that just because you reach a certain age, it doesn’t mean that life has to end but instead life can be fun and there are lots of adventures to be had. Judy clearly cares about her characters and this shines through in the very vivid and realistic way in which she describes them. She describes them so vividly and realistically that they seem just as real as you and I. I love the way in which Judy makes the reader feel as though they are part of the story and at the heart of the action.
In short, I totally and utterly adored reading ‘A Year Of Mr Maybes’ and I would recommend this book to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Judy’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.

[Deanne Patterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a delightful,live life to it's fullest no matter your age book.
I really appreciated the fact that the main characters are older and not the typical twenty somethings that you read about in a typical book.
Making the most of a bad situation a woman moves to a new area,introduces herself to her neighbor's and is very friendly and becomes a person everyone likes and gets involved in the town going on's helping in any way she can.
Some very funny moments are found in this book and some, oh my moments as well.
I loved the high energy of these seniors. They are fun and impressive.
I recommend this fun,feel good book.

Published March 29th 2022
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.

[Kitty · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a pleasant example of what I like to call "Old Lady Fiction." Val is a retired schoolteacher, in her 70s, when she discovers her husband of 47 years was cheating on her. She dumps the guy and moves to Cornwall where she meets some other folks around her age, and makes it a goal to find a Mr. December to accompany her to her son's wedding later in the year. She meets a lot of people and learns a lot about herself, but I didn't care much for any of the characters or even care what happened to her in the end. I did highlight this quote "Val was filled with a contentment that felt special," a description that would not have cut it in my high school English classes. The book was good enough to finish, but was not in any way memorable.

[Kim · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book had a good premise but really there was just too much going on. Too many side stories and characters. Also I felt for being in their mid seventies to eighties these characters were really doing an awful lot like hiking, dancing, home repair etc. i know some people stay spry but this just seemed odd. Val kept meeting men in their mid seventies who were acting like twenty year old boys. I would have run screaming. The ending was not satisfying at all.

My copy was provided by NetGalley for review.

[DeAnna · Rating 2 out of 5]

Received from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

The description of this book was intriguing, but the characters never really came alive for me. Val's journey from divorce through independence made for pleasant reading, but I didn't care much about any of the characters.

[Grass monster · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Blurb :
Val didn’t expect to be starting again in her seventies, but when life gives her lemons, Val is determined to make lemonade.
Settled into her new home – a picture-perfect fisherman’s cottage in the small Cornish seaside town of Lowenstowe – Val is ready to start a new chapter. And with her son due to get married next Christmas, there’s also the little job of finding herself a plus-one to help her face her ex-husband and his new girlfriend.
With the support of her neighbour Connie, and after decades of married life, Val takes the plunge back into the world of dating with trepidation and excitement. But can she remember how the single life works, let alone what her type is? There seem to be plenty of Mr Maybes, but no sign of Mr Right.
As the year passes, and as friendships and community life flourish, Val begins to blossom. And as Christmas approach, she might just decide she doesn’t need that plus-one after all - although never say never...


My Thoughts :
Having loved every book that Judy Leigh has written, I knew this would be no different and I wasnt wrong.
We meet 70 year old Val, who finds that her husband Ray has cheated on her. She decides to brush herself off and turn her life around to start living again.
She moves to a new home in Cornwall, and as Val has her son Tom’s wedding coming up that December, she feels she needs a plus one to take if not only to spite her ex husband and save face.
With the help of her new friend connie, Val embarks on a series of dates over the coming months, hence the title A Year of Mr Maybes.
Not only do we get to know Val, who is a lovely lady, caring and strong. We also see her start to enjoy life again and meet some great characters along the way. She is a person I wish I had in my life, she would fit right in.
It shows you are never too old to start living again.
With some twists and turns along the way, Judy Leigh has once again written a feel good story about mature aged characters and one I didnt want to put down.
As my go to Author, I hope there will soon be another new release.

[Sally Tyrer · Rating 5 out of 5]

A year of mr maybes is a lovely genteel read that champions the older generation, showing that your never too old to start again, have fun, take up new hobbies, make new friends or look for love and romance!
Based in picturesque cornwall we are introduced to Val who is still smarting from the break up of her marriage to Ray, however she throws herself into her new life making friends with the neighbours, volunteering at the local charity shop and being instrumental in the campaign to clear up their local town and raise awareness of environmental issues! Despite being so busy val dates again but in doing so discovers that she doesn’t need a man to complete her/make her happy/ accompany her to her sons wedding,she is happy,content and fulfilled with great friends and a purpose in life as she moves on from the breakdown of her marriage, however Cupid may have other plans!
Would love to read a sequel to this book!
Thank you netgalley for this early read.

[Davida Chazan · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5/5 stars.
Ms Leigh has now found a dedicated fan in me, with her latest novel, which was just delightful. You can read my full review here https://tcl-bookreviews.com/2022/03/2...

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

*4.5 stars*

Charming and makes my heart smile

When she catches her husband cheating on Christmas, she leaves him out in the rain. A Christmas later, she’s moving into a new home in a quaint Cornish town, and receives news that her son is to be married the following Christmas in Canada. A plan is hatched with her new friend, Connie: Val will dive back into the dating pool to find contenders to be her plus one at the wedding so she doesn’t have to be solo in photos while her ex-husband smiles and poses with his girlfriend.

Through daily beach walks, Karaoke, heart-to-hearts with a local young man, and helping rally the community for environmental change in town, Val makes incredible bonds in the community. She ends up encountering an abundance of Mr Maybes, rather than Mr Right, but she sees throughout the year that she’s fantastically happy with who she is and what she’s built in this new life.

While my chick lit brain thought I knew the direction it would take and how Val’s journey would round out, surprises kept me on my toes in the best way possible. So satisfying and had me smiling through the last page. Empowering and invigorating. This was the perfect read for the time of transition I’m in.

Thank you NetGalley and Boldwood Books for this ARC. This review reflects my honest opinion.

[Julia · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Year Of Mr Maybes by Judy Leigh is the most delightful contemporary novel about living your life to the full whatever your age.
It was so refreshing to have the leading characters in their seventies and eighties. Traditionally, people think of slowing down as they get older – but not this wonderful bunch of people. Life is for living. And life is for living now.
We get out of life what we put in. Within the novel we meet some very high energy characters who come together to make their village a better, cleaner, greener place. They are very community minded – needs are identified and met. New faces are made welcome.
The characters bounce off each other as friendships are formed. They bring out the best in each other – whether in their 20’s or 80’s. I loved the wise young man of twenty five with autism who dispensed wisdom to seventy year olds. We are never too old to learn lessons from the young.
A Year Of Mr Maybes was a really fun novel – from walks on the beach to visits to the vet – the simple pleasures in life are celebrated. It was highly amusing too.
I absolutely adored this book. I always adore Judy Leigh’s novels.
I received a free copy from Boldwood and Rachael’s Random Resources via Net Galley. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.

[Jeanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

A year of maybes. What a fabulous book Val and Connie, out to conquer the world I laughed and cried it really is a very poignant tale.

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: 4.5 Stars

Judy Leigh writes the most wonderfully feel-good, uplifting and life-affirming contemporary women’s fiction novels and A Year of Mr Maybes is her latest irresistible page-turner.

Val never imagined that she would find herself starting over in her seventies. But with circumstances leaving her no other choice but to bid her old life farewell, Val finds herself ready to start a new chapter in a picture perfect fisherman’s cottage in the Cornish town of Lowenstowe. Val has got a lot to look forward to. Not only does she find herself making new friends and settling down in her new home, but she also needs to find a date for her son’s wedding at Christmas as there is no way she is facing her ex-husband and his new girlfriend without a handsome man on her arm!

As her Prince Charming is not going to fall in her lap, Val realises that after decades of married life she needs to dip her toe in the dating pool again and it’s not going to be easy. With her friend Connie cheering her on when all she wants to do is stay at home, Val begins her quest to find her Mr Right. But although she meets many a Mr Maybe, she hasn’t met anyone who kindles that elusive spark deep within her. Val’s romantic life might not exactly be a raging success, but her social life is flourishing. As she begins to blossom in Lowenstowe, Val realises that at long last she has found somewhere she belongs and a place she can call home.

With her son’s wedding fast approaching, will Val find the man of her dreams? Or will she realise that she doesn’t need that plus-one after all…

Judy Leigh’s books never fail to hit the spot and A Year of Mr Maybes is the latest in a long list of wonderful titles I never hesitate to recommend to readers wanting to read books that leave them feeling inspired and uplifted. Sparkling with humour, wit and charm by the bucket load, A Year of Mr Maybes is a story about finding yourself, belonging and embracing life and living it to the full I galloped through.

I absolutely loved Val and her ability to pick herself up, step out of her comfort zone and have the time of her life. She is definitely someone I enjoyed spending time with and the village of Lowenstowe sounds like an absolute dream!

Warm-hearted, funny and simply fabulous, the sensational Judy Leigh has done it again with her latest novel, A Year of Mr Maybes.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Book Escapes Babs · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved meeting Val, she had every right and reason to close herself off from the world and feel sorry for herself. Her 37-year marriage had been tossed away like yesterday’s newspaper and wasn’t even worth using for wrapping chips. Yet Val was made of stronger stuff than the average jilted wife. She was able to dust herself down and set about finding a new partner, even if it was just for her son’s wedding. With her wonderfully determined nature, she begins to have an effect on those around her and the results are both heart-warming and funny.
As I have come to expect with Judy’s writing, the characters are all thoroughly developed, and I found them taking shape in my imagination. Whilst I loved gentle Connie, I just adored the rebel that was Loveday Moon. Connie and Loveday are almost polar opposites yet held together by their friendships with Val. Connie is a widow and not even vaguely interested in finding a new partner. Loveday is a determined eco-warrior who will stop at nothing to ensure that the town of Lowenstowe is respected by visiting ‘Emmets’ and the local councillor, as long as she’s home in time to look after her husband, John.
Whilst the antics of the friends provides some hilarious moments, Val’s bittersweet search for a plus-one is tinged with sadness. It shows that the issues facing the youngsters of today, remain an issue as we look at retirement. From jack the lads and casual connections to the downright duplicitous, Val encounters a wide range of would-be suitors as she seeks out a suitable escort.
As always, Judy Leigh’s observations are spot-on as she examines the intricacies of older relationships. A special mention has to be given to Alice and Kev, along with their canine friend, Dolly, they bring some light relief as well as a glimpse of marital happiness. I’ve already mentioned a couple of the supporting cast who all added perfect layers to the story, I have considered including more in my review, but hate risking spoilers, so I will just point you in the direction of the journalist…
When December and her son’s wedding comes around, I hadn’t imagined how the story would end for Val, but I couldn’t have been happier with the final chapters.
This was a wonderful escape. Val and her friends took me on some fun adventures and I was grateful for their company.

[Sara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Originally reviewed for Chick Lit Central (www.chicklitcentral.com)

I always appreciate a good book that allows women to continue to live their lives beyond a certain age when we’re often told we’re “past it.” Past the romance. Past the intrigue. Past the youthful zest. For Val, she’s starting over in her seventies, but in many ways, it’s as if her life is truly just beginning.

After experiencing a life-altering, world shattering moment, she decides to move to a new town, within a new neighborhood, where she has the opportunity to meet new friends. I love how Judy Leigh portrays that kind of community and bonding between Val and her neighbors, because while trying to move on and move forward, I could tell just how much Val needed that support, and how much her new friends needed her support, too. It’s the kind of friendship we can only hope for in our golden years, but along with that are independent relationships–the couple who lives next door to Val, the single woman who lives across the street from her, and the never-home fisherman who Val often tries to engage with, but he’s never available.

With the help of her new friends, Val sets out to ensure that she won’t show up alone to her son’s wedding. She notes how in wedding photos, it wouldn’t seem balanced or fair to see her ex-husband and his new girlfriend on one side of their son, yet she’d be all alone on the other side of him. Having gone through a divorce myself, I could relate and identify with those emotions. It’s a tough road to navigate until finding that “new normal,” and Val wonders if it might be time to embark on a new adventure: finding a new man to go with that “new normal.”

Following Val's humorous dating experiences was a lot of fun. Each division for each “Mr. Maybe” is designated as “Mr. February, or Mr. March,” etc. It seems each month brings along a new prospect–although maybe not. Through it all, there were some stand-outs that she really couldn’t stop thinking about, only adding to the intrigue as the months went by. I thought it was great that Val was given the liberty to seek out new relationships, platonic or otherwise, proving that it really doesn’t matter how old you are–it’s the spirit inside of you that dictates how you choose to live your life.

[Niki · Rating 5 out of 5]

You know when you discover a new author and you’re in to book number 3 that you have read of theirs? Well that is where I am with Judy Leigh. I was so looking forward to A Year of Mr Maybes. As soon as I was lucky enough to get an advance copy I could not wait to sit in peace, on my own and stay there until I had finished. Was I disappointed? NO NO NO and NO again, this is the BEST one yet!! I absolutely loved every crazy moment, every laugh, every beautiful character. I mean who can not fail but to fall in love with a character called Loveday Moon? You know immediately what kind of slightly crazy but oh so brilliant character she is going to be.

Val is an utterly loveable woman. Strong and caring and the best kind of friend. She is out going and supports her friends with a fierce passion. I love her, I want to meet her, I want to be her (in a few years). She sets out on her mission to find her plus one with energy and commitment with the love and care of her new found friend and neighbour, Connie. These two form an immediate bond and just bring the best out in each other. They have the perfect relationship and bounce off each other. I love them! How many times can I say “love” in this review? oh many many times. I loved every quirky situation, every giggle, I wanted to feast on brownies and friendship and laughter. I loved this book.

Judy Leigh is the absolute master of writing fun, believable, older characters. Her style is easy to read, easy to lose yourself in, easy to love, laugh and cry along with the wonderful people contained within it’s pages. Have I said that I loved this book? Oh yes it looks like I have. Well if you don’t get just how fabulous A Year of Mr Maybes truly is, then I implore you to rush out, right now, grab a copy, a cuppa, lock your doors, switch off your phone and indulge yourself in a world of pure brilliance. It’s a great book that just goes to show age is just a number, nothing should stop you living your best life, in your own inimitable way. Be more Val, that’s what I say.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Val is in her early seventies and lives in Merrynporth, Cornwall. After their son Tom moved to Canada, it was just Val and her husband Ray spending Christmas together, but then Val finds her husband with someone else.
Moving forward a year to the present day and it’s Christmas Day again. Val has moved into a small cottage in Lowenstowe – a small seaside town five miles from Merrynporth. She makes friends with her neighbours – Connie (74, Dutch) and Kevin and Alice who have a dog called Dolly – and some of the others in the town, most noticeably Loveday Moon, an 82-year-old activist who is a real character!
On New Year’s Eve, Val’s son Tom rings her to tell her he’s getting married the following December. His dad will be there with his partner Monica, while Val will be all on her own. But talking to Connie, they hatch a plan. She will try to find someone to take with her to the wedding as her plus one, by auditioning men over the coming months – Mr Maybes.
This is a lovely book, I’m a real fan of Judy Leigh’s writing. Her characters are so warm and real and Val here is a real gem, you will really root for her and hope she finds happiness. But the whole “supporting cast” are wonderful too and there are all different ages and types here. I love how so many of her characters are over seventy and show how much life there is left in them, but also here, there’s wonderful Ollie, who’s much younger and has Aspergers (as does my daughter) and he is a great character too. There are some cute dogs as well – I do love a good pet in a novel – and the environmental themes are really well done, without ever seeming preachy.
Although there is romance at the heart of the book, the main theme for me was friendship. I loved Val and Connie, such a gorgeous example of two women supporting each other and becoming best mates.
Overall, it’s another big success for Judy Leigh, who is rapidly becoming one of my favourite authors.

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Val has been married 46 years, but thanks to her husband's stepping out with another man's wife, there won't be any anniversaries any more. Val moves down the road to a new town, still in Cornwall, buying a cottage with her part of the money from the sale of the house after the divorce. She has her own car, and the main regret she has is that Ray will be with his new woman for their son's wedding, but she will be alone.

As she adjusts to being single, grieving the loss of her marriage, she is also busy making friends and taking on projects. She blossoms into a new person, one who doesn't live in the shadow of her spouse. She admits she took the easy way out when they were together, hanging out with the wives of her now ex-husband's friends, rather than make her own. Now, she has made friends - and has a helper to try and find her a plus-one for her son's wedding...perhaps even a Mr. Right.

Re-entering the dating scene after so long proves daunting, and as her self-confidence grows, she is less interested. in a Plus One for the wedding. There is no Mr. Right, only too many Mr. Maybes.

I enjoyed the book. Loveday was my favorite character, next is her grandson Ollie...but all the characters were interesting. The author portrays the end of Val's marriage and the adjustment period very well. I remember my parents' divorce, although I was just 6 at the time. I remember Mom grieving the marriage and its end. even though she knew it was a bad deal early on. As I got older, and we talked more, it was the idea of marriage, of a loving husband and children, that she grieved most. She did the right thing - the only thing left, really. As did Val...not that a marriage can't survive n infidelity, but for Val, there was the need for her to come out of her shell, to be the person she was meant to be, Val, a strong individual, and not just Ray's wife.

[E · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are looking for a heartwarming story of love lost, family, betrayal and finding new beginnings this is the read for you. I especially appreciate the author writing about the life of senior citizens. Val is sucker punched when she finds her husband of 47 years in their local bar with a younger woman. It’s Christmas, a time when family should be together. Now it’s a nightmare she will never forget. Val locks Ray out of their house and her life. Time to move on, time for a complete change. Val finds herself in a small village on the coast of Cornwall after her divorce. It is lonely in her little cottage, but she is determined to survive, if not thrive on her own. Val meets one of her neighbors. Connie, a recluse after the death of her husband, lives across from Val. They form a friendship and begin a kinship that helps them both move on. Val’s son lives in Canada and he informs his mother that he is getting married and wants her to be at their Christmas Eve wedding. He also tells her invited his father and his plus one. Val isn’t sure she can deal with seeing Ray. Connie conceives a plan for Val to find a plus one herself. A year of Mr. Maybe's. And the fun beings. Each month starting in January Val is to find a Mr. Maybe, someone compatible she can take to Canada. She has a lot of help along the way. Will Val find a plus one before the wedding? The characters are full bodied personalities finding their way together in the ups and downs of village life and personal challenges. A most enjoyable read especially for us old folks. You young folks to learn a thing or too as well.

[Annette · Rating 3 out of 5]

The blurbs say this is a “feel good” story, and it is, sort of.

Val is a divorced woman who moves to a small village in Cornwall to start her new life. She meets Connie and Val and Connie decide that Val will find a man to become her plus one for her son’s wedding in Montreal. She simply does not want to face the wedding pictures alone when her ex has his new woman at his side.

These are mature women. But, at times I felt they were in their teens.

Val gets Connie and other neighbors involved in doing good. They become environmentally involved. Val begins to work one day a week at a thrift shop to help others. She also bakes and cooks and shares her food with others. She encourages the community members to do things together.

And every month there is a new man in her life. Not all of them would be candidates to go to Montreal, but all of them are interesting. Some of them not in a good way.

The story is interesting and entertaining.

Val is a strong woman. She is an interesting character who becomes a community leader within a short period of time. She is a good friend to others. She spends a great deal of her time being introspective about her past and her future. And she slowly becomes much more confident in her personal life.

This is a well written book. But, I really would have felt more comfortable with mature women who acted in a mature manner.

And no matter what, there are happily ever afters all over the place.

[Patty · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was written so descriptively that I feel like I moved to Lowenstowe along with Val. Does Val find a plus one, or does she instead find herself?

When Val's marriage breaks down on Christmas Day after almost 50 years, she decides to move house to Lowenstowe, a small town with a huge heart right on the ocean. She immediately is drawn into the community, meeting her neighbors Connie, Alice and Kevin; the eccentric Loveday and her grandson Ollie; Caden, a young newspaper reporter with his own love issues; and various "men of the month". Don't be fooled by that moniker, the book is really very clean, no adult action.

While the book's intended plotline is about Val finding a plus one to her son's upcoming wedding by dating a different man every month, its not really a romance novel. I felt like it was more of a second coming of age book, how people deal with broken marriages, deaths and lost loves when they are in their golden years. Being closer to that age than the opposite, I could easily identify with the issues and heartaches, but that's not to say it won't appeal to a younger audience as well. Might even help them understand their parents and grandparents better!

Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book, but my opinions are my own.

[Elaine - Splashes Into Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely fabulous story about changing you and your ways
As you make the most of opportunities and your days.
This is another fantastic read, featuring young at heart protagonists
Where their relationships and drama are not to be missed.
Finding her husband cheating has Val starting anew
Moving to a new home, by the seaside, too!
She's not one to sit back and wait for life so
She's determined to go out there and give a fresh start a go.

Her son is getting married in Canada next year
She'd like someone to go with her, though being alone is not a fear.
With her new friend Connie, she's going to go out
To see if there's anyone around tempt her somewhere about.
Get ready for months of maybe men and dates
And see what happens and how each she rates!
Forget young love and see just how she fares
As this septuagenerian with dating trying dares.

A story filled with relationships and dramas that unfold
With older protagonists whose stories are also told.
There's hopes and dreams, mischief and fun
A brilliant read when all is said and done.
Val learns about being older and single
And explores the opportunities she finds to mingle.
For my complementary copy of this book, I say thank you,
A highly entertaining read and this is my honest review.

[Sarah Campbell · Rating 5 out of 5]

A romantic staycation with Val…
Usually when I pick up one of Judy Leigh’s books, I find myself transported to some beautiful places in the world. A Year of Mr Maybes is no different as the setting is charming and picturesque Cornwall. The story follows Val, starting a new life after a painful divorce and dating again to find the perfect man for her son’s wedding. I loved how bubbly and confident a character Val was, determined not to let life get her down, she threw herself into her new start.
Although the plot is almost confined to one place, that doesn’t mean that it lacked action. There were plenty of events happening to keep me entertained. True to life, Val’s exploration of dating again was full of ups and downs. There weren’t really any nasty characters to this plot, just lots of supportive friends, some with quirky personalities. Loveday really stood out as a character and I could clearly picture her on the beach litter picking! The themes in the book about moving on and falling in love with yourself were lovely and resonated with me. Another warm-hearted thoughtful book. With thanks to Rachel’s Random Resources, Netgalley and Boldwood Books for this ARC copy I received in exchange for an honest review.

[Kerry https://likeherdingcatsblog.wordpress.com Robinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my first Judy Leigh novel and it certainly won’t be my last.
My favourite thing about this book is that it centres around Val, who is a lady of a more mature age. A lot of romance novels have much younger protagonists so I really enjoyed reading about someone who searches for love and a new life in their later years.
Val is hurt and deeply upset when she finds out her husband has been cheating. Her son is loving at the other side of the world so she moves a few miles away to a cottage to start fresh. She meets new friends and neighbours and is happy on her own. Until, her son invites her to his wedding and she needs a plus one. So begins the search for a companion but love can appear in unexpected places.
Val’s friendship with Connie is so heart-warming and enjoyable to read about. I loved the variety of characters she is neighbours with and how quickly they drew her into the fold. It was uplifting to see how Val was healed by friendship first rather than romance, and how everyone looked after her.
The setting for this novel was just perfect for a moving on and healing story. Who doesn’t want to live in a cottage by the sea?
I adored this book and everything about it and I cannot wait to read more by this author.

[Pippa · Rating 1 out of 5]

This is my first by Judy Leigh: It began well but I soon found myself losing interest. Yes, it is nice to have books which don’t portray anyone over 60 as geriatric and dribbling, but it started to sound a bit... silly? Or perhaps I need a better sense of humour? Emotions do not decay in the same way our outer appearance does, but I think with age comes an understanding of life’s realities, a management of expectations acquired through living, that is not to say there are no dreams, but also an acceptance of their fragility.

Val wants to find someone to accompany her to her son’s wedding because attending it alone. when her cheating ex-husband will be there with his new partner, would be upsetting. Finding a suitable “plus one” for a wedding in the UK would seem reasonable but one in Canada? That would involve a fair chunk of time and expense. My growing dissatisfaction with this writer was exacerbated by the overuse of pronouns making some paragraphs feel like a list of she did, thought, saw, said, wondered asked... Very poor writing, okay for a first draft but it should have been refined in subsequent editorial revisions. There is another title which I might give a go while it costs me nothing via Prime.