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Love in the Comptons #2
The Only Exception
Lucinda Green knows something is missing from her life. But what? Her catering business is enjoying modest success and she loves her cosy house, even if she does have to share it with her irritating ex-fiancé.
Whatever’s making her unsettled and edgy, Lucinda’s certain that a lack of romance isn’t the problem. How could it be when she doesn’t believe in true love?
But Lucinda’s beliefs are shaken by a series of electric encounters with Alex Fraser, a newly notorious actor who gradually proves himself to be infuriatingly funny and smart, as well as handsome.
Not that any of that matters. Because Lucinda doesn’t believe in all that ‘The One’ nonsense. That’s the rule.
But doesn’t every rule have an exception?
This uplifting grumpy-meets-sunshine romance is perfect for fans of Phillipa Ashley, Katie Fforde and Trisha Ashley.
Whatever’s making her unsettled and edgy, Lucinda’s certain that a lack of romance isn’t the problem. How could it be when she doesn’t believe in true love?
But Lucinda’s beliefs are shaken by a series of electric encounters with Alex Fraser, a newly notorious actor who gradually proves himself to be infuriatingly funny and smart, as well as handsome.
Not that any of that matters. Because Lucinda doesn’t believe in all that ‘The One’ nonsense. That’s the rule.
But doesn’t every rule have an exception?
This uplifting grumpy-meets-sunshine romance is perfect for fans of Phillipa Ashley, Katie Fforde and Trisha Ashley.
327 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 4, 2022
20 people are currently reading
66 people want to read
About the author
Claire Huston
5 books156 followersClaire Huston lives in Warwickshire, UK. She writes uplifting modern love stories about characters who are meant for each other but sometimes need help figuring that out.
A keen amateur baker, she enjoys making cakes, biscuits and brownies almost as much as eating them. You can find recipes for all the cakes mentioned in her first novel, Art and Soul, on her website along with over 150 other recipes. This is also where she talks about and reviews books.
As well as her website, you can find her on various social media. Find your favourite here: linktr.ee/clairehuston_author.
A keen amateur baker, she enjoys making cakes, biscuits and brownies almost as much as eating them. You can find recipes for all the cakes mentioned in her first novel, Art and Soul, on her website along with over 150 other recipes. This is also where she talks about and reviews books.
As well as her website, you can find her on various social media. Find your favourite here: linktr.ee/clairehuston_author.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
June 7, 2022
THE ONLY EXCEPTION is the second book in the Love in the Comptons series. It is also a slow burn contemporary story that I was pulled in to immediately. THE ONLY EXCEPTION is filled with second chances and starting over and I loved every minute of it. I truly mean I loved everything about this beautiful story and I’m excited to recommend it to my reading friends. Claire Huston has a way of grabbing her reader’s hearts and she never lets us go.
THE ONLY EXCEPTION is the story of Lucinda who is a chef and lives in a house she bought with her ex fiance. The ex fiance also lives in the house with her. Trust me, you are going to be unable to put this beautiful story down. Lucinda is on an elevator when one of the passengers suffers a heart attack. This is how she meets Alex. Neither Alex or Lucinda are looking for a relationship, but they can’t seem to ignore their growing feelings. It was cute watching these two dance around their feelings for each other.
THE ONLY EXCEPTION is filled with twists and turns and had me staying up way too late one night to finish! I had to know where Claire Huston was taking us and what would happen to Lucinda and Alex. I loved that the main characters were in their 40’s. Lately it seems most of the books I read are people in their 20’s. There is so much heart in Claire’s writing that I was left with a huge smile on my face and my heart very happy. All of the characters are very interesting and believable, so much so that I felt as if I’ve known them for a long time. I am now a Claire Huston fan and look forward to reading all of her books in the future!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.
THE ONLY EXCEPTION is the story of Lucinda who is a chef and lives in a house she bought with her ex fiance. The ex fiance also lives in the house with her. Trust me, you are going to be unable to put this beautiful story down. Lucinda is on an elevator when one of the passengers suffers a heart attack. This is how she meets Alex. Neither Alex or Lucinda are looking for a relationship, but they can’t seem to ignore their growing feelings. It was cute watching these two dance around their feelings for each other.
THE ONLY EXCEPTION is filled with twists and turns and had me staying up way too late one night to finish! I had to know where Claire Huston was taking us and what would happen to Lucinda and Alex. I loved that the main characters were in their 40’s. Lately it seems most of the books I read are people in their 20’s. There is so much heart in Claire’s writing that I was left with a huge smile on my face and my heart very happy. All of the characters are very interesting and believable, so much so that I felt as if I’ve known them for a long time. I am now a Claire Huston fan and look forward to reading all of her books in the future!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.
June 6, 2022
The Only Exception is the second book in the Love In The Compton's series but can very be read as a stand alone. A slow-burn , entertaining, heart- warming , feel-good romance with interesting characters that I really enjoyed reading.
I would like to thank the TBC Reviewers Request Group & the author for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest and fair review
I would like to thank the TBC Reviewers Request Group & the author for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest and fair review
June 14, 2022
Finished reading: June 13th 2022
"Life is short: a lesson he'd learned at an early age."
*** A copy of this book was kindly provided to me by the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! ***
P.S. Find more of my reviews here.
June 2, 2022
Sometimes, a book comes at you out of the blue and gets you in the gut. This book was one of those.
The Story:
Lucinda is a chef just about managing to run her private catering company. She lives in a house she bought with her ex-fiance with the ex-fiance. Money is tight: there is no other choice.
Alex Fraser is an up-and-coming actor, well-known for his secondary roles. He wants to land a lead role but is never good enough.
Lucinda and Alex come face-to-face unexpectedly in a lift in completely bizarre circumstances. A fellow lift passenger suffers a heart attack within the lift and it is up to Lucinda to revive her. Alex simply freezes, lowering his worth in Lucinda's eyes. Lucinda, on the other hand, is snappy and rude, a quality that Alex detests.
But the lady invites them to tea after she gets better. Will this second meeting improve their image in each others' eyes? But what about what Lucinda has learnt from childhood from her mother: true love is fiction?
The Positives:
1. I loved the slow-burn romance. There is no hurry for the characters to fall in love with each other. True, they admire each others' physical qualities but it takes time for them to open up about their love.
2. Both the lead characters are in their 40s. I don't know why I love characters nearer to my age so much but I always relate to them more and feel they are more mature in handling feelings and relationships. It also gives me hope: after all, love can be found at any age, can't it? Why should only the people in their twenties have all the fun?
3. Sticky toffee pie
4. The witty banter
The Negatives:
1. The length could have been a bit shorter but I am not complaining much.
4 stars.
The Story:
Lucinda is a chef just about managing to run her private catering company. She lives in a house she bought with her ex-fiance with the ex-fiance. Money is tight: there is no other choice.
Alex Fraser is an up-and-coming actor, well-known for his secondary roles. He wants to land a lead role but is never good enough.
Lucinda and Alex come face-to-face unexpectedly in a lift in completely bizarre circumstances. A fellow lift passenger suffers a heart attack within the lift and it is up to Lucinda to revive her. Alex simply freezes, lowering his worth in Lucinda's eyes. Lucinda, on the other hand, is snappy and rude, a quality that Alex detests.
But the lady invites them to tea after she gets better. Will this second meeting improve their image in each others' eyes? But what about what Lucinda has learnt from childhood from her mother: true love is fiction?
The Positives:
1. I loved the slow-burn romance. There is no hurry for the characters to fall in love with each other. True, they admire each others' physical qualities but it takes time for them to open up about their love.
2. Both the lead characters are in their 40s. I don't know why I love characters nearer to my age so much but I always relate to them more and feel they are more mature in handling feelings and relationships. It also gives me hope: after all, love can be found at any age, can't it? Why should only the people in their twenties have all the fun?
3. Sticky toffee pie
4. The witty banter
The Negatives:
1. The length could have been a bit shorter but I am not complaining much.
4 stars.
June 13, 2023
THE ONLY EXCEPTION is the second book in the Love in the Comptons series. although you could read it as a standalone. I wouldn't recommend this as you'd be missing out on a fantastic read of the first book.
Lucinda and Alex first meet in a lift, which runs into trouble, giving them trouble as well, in the shape of an elderly woman having a cardiac arrest. The story follows on from there, throwing our two main characters together, and leaving them no choice but to get to know each other.
Lucinda is prickly and Alex is charming, but both of them have more going on than you first realise. I loved the pace of this book - giving you time to get to know the characters and their situations without being rushed to the next part. Both of them are in their forties, which I think is brilliant! I love that they have had life experiences which help them be who they are today.
Becky from book one made an appearance, and it was good to see her again.
Overall, this was a brilliant read that I loved from beginning to end. I love this author's writing style as it gives me everything I need. That being said, I have no hesitation in highly recommending this wonderful story.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jun 4, 2022
Lucinda and Alex first meet in a lift, which runs into trouble, giving them trouble as well, in the shape of an elderly woman having a cardiac arrest. The story follows on from there, throwing our two main characters together, and leaving them no choice but to get to know each other.
Lucinda is prickly and Alex is charming, but both of them have more going on than you first realise. I loved the pace of this book - giving you time to get to know the characters and their situations without being rushed to the next part. Both of them are in their forties, which I think is brilliant! I love that they have had life experiences which help them be who they are today.
Becky from book one made an appearance, and it was good to see her again.
Overall, this was a brilliant read that I loved from beginning to end. I love this author's writing style as it gives me everything I need. That being said, I have no hesitation in highly recommending this wonderful story.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jun 4, 2022
June 6, 2022
The Only Exception is a charming contemporary romance about taking chances, starting over, and finding love. The story follows Lucinda Green and Alex Fraser, strangers who meet by chance when their elevator breaks, and they are stuck with a woman who might be having a heart attack. The story pulls you into Lucinda and Alex’s lives from the first pages as they work together to save a stranger.
Lucinda is a driven caterer who is always on the go. She works so hard and is determined to make a success of her business. She is a person who likes to be in control, and she never takes risks with her heart. Alex is equally driven in his career as an actor, though he is a bit more of a risk-taker than Lucinda. Both characters are dynamic and complex, and I like that you see the personal journey both go on as they try to figure out their feelings, careers, friendships, romantic life, and more.
Lucinda and Alex have great chemistry, and there’s a lot of angst between them. Both are at a crossroads in their romantic lives, with Lucinda still living with her ex and Alex in a stagnant relationship with an aspiring actress, and they have a lot to figure out in their personal lives. However, several chance encounters bring them together, and they begin to want for more than what they have. I like that both characters begin to see their worth and make steps toward getting what they want. Unfortunately, Lucinda doesn’t believe in true love, but her growing feelings for Alex might just change her mind.
The secondary characters add a lot of depth and dimension to the story too. Lucinda’s friends, Alex’s fame-hungry girlfriend, and the woman they met on the elevator all have important roles in Alex and Lucinda’s relationship and growth. Plus, there’s an adorable dog that causes some interesting shenanigans when Lucinda and Alex visit the woman they saved.
I enjoyed this story, as I enjoy all of Claire Huston’s books. It’s fun and entertaining, and the characters and romance are wonderful. Though it’s the second book in the Love in the Comptons series, it can easily be read as a standalone. That being said, if you read the first book, you’ll be happy to see Becky as a secondary character in this story. Special thanks to Claire Huston for providing me with an advanced copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
Lucinda is a driven caterer who is always on the go. She works so hard and is determined to make a success of her business. She is a person who likes to be in control, and she never takes risks with her heart. Alex is equally driven in his career as an actor, though he is a bit more of a risk-taker than Lucinda. Both characters are dynamic and complex, and I like that you see the personal journey both go on as they try to figure out their feelings, careers, friendships, romantic life, and more.
Lucinda and Alex have great chemistry, and there’s a lot of angst between them. Both are at a crossroads in their romantic lives, with Lucinda still living with her ex and Alex in a stagnant relationship with an aspiring actress, and they have a lot to figure out in their personal lives. However, several chance encounters bring them together, and they begin to want for more than what they have. I like that both characters begin to see their worth and make steps toward getting what they want. Unfortunately, Lucinda doesn’t believe in true love, but her growing feelings for Alex might just change her mind.
The secondary characters add a lot of depth and dimension to the story too. Lucinda’s friends, Alex’s fame-hungry girlfriend, and the woman they met on the elevator all have important roles in Alex and Lucinda’s relationship and growth. Plus, there’s an adorable dog that causes some interesting shenanigans when Lucinda and Alex visit the woman they saved.
I enjoyed this story, as I enjoy all of Claire Huston’s books. It’s fun and entertaining, and the characters and romance are wonderful. Though it’s the second book in the Love in the Comptons series, it can easily be read as a standalone. That being said, if you read the first book, you’ll be happy to see Becky as a secondary character in this story. Special thanks to Claire Huston for providing me with an advanced copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
June 12, 2022
Stuck in a lift . . . with strangers...
A lady collapses . . . her life's in danger....
First aid knowledge to try ....
Need help to apply . . .
Men frozen in situ . . .
Order them what to do!
After an eventful first - fleeting - greeting,
Actor Alex and caterer Lucinda keep meeting.
There's attraction between them but could it be more?
Not according to Lucinda who believes love is folklore!
With unscrupulous folks causing trouble
And relationships still going at the double
Can these two find a way to get together
Or will fate separate them for ever?
It is a story about changing beliefs
Of being honest and finding it a relief
Of ending relationships which aren't going any where
To making room in your life for those who really care.
What a fun read this proved to be
With memorable encounters and a little mystery.
It had me giggling out loud a lot of the time and so
I have no hesitation in highly recommending you give it a go!
For my complementary copy, I say thank you,
As I share with you this, my honest review
A lady collapses . . . her life's in danger....
First aid knowledge to try ....
Need help to apply . . .
Men frozen in situ . . .
Order them what to do!
After an eventful first - fleeting - greeting,
Actor Alex and caterer Lucinda keep meeting.
There's attraction between them but could it be more?
Not according to Lucinda who believes love is folklore!
With unscrupulous folks causing trouble
And relationships still going at the double
Can these two find a way to get together
Or will fate separate them for ever?
It is a story about changing beliefs
Of being honest and finding it a relief
Of ending relationships which aren't going any where
To making room in your life for those who really care.
What a fun read this proved to be
With memorable encounters and a little mystery.
It had me giggling out loud a lot of the time and so
I have no hesitation in highly recommending you give it a go!
For my complementary copy, I say thank you,
As I share with you this, my honest review
June 7, 2022
I love Book one in this series, if you haven't read it, I would definitely recommend it, you can read this one as a standalone but the first book was really good and this one is even better. We follow Lucinda and Alex through this story, Lucinda has a comfortable life with a good career and a lovely home unfortunately for her she feels something is missing from her life until she meets Alex. Lucinda does not believe in The One but could Alex change her mind? A sweet romantic story that is believable. I found parts of this book very funny to say the least, Claire writes with passion and an understanding of the subject matter. I found this such an uplifting and full of romance story that I cannot wait to read book three.
June 19, 2022
I thoroughly enjoyed this modern, romantic story!
Lucinda is a chef who shares a house with her ex, because they were friends first and it seems easier to continue sharing a living space. Also, cheaper.
Alex is an actor who struggles to get leading man roles.
These two meet by chance in a lift. Their lives will never be the same again.....
Such a lovely story, it really was. I am not easily swayed by romantic stories but these two really made me believe :)
A romantic novel without being overly sickly sweet or too predictable. I didn't read the first book in the series but I think this reads really well as a standalone anyway.
5 stars from me.
Lucinda is a chef who shares a house with her ex, because they were friends first and it seems easier to continue sharing a living space. Also, cheaper.
Alex is an actor who struggles to get leading man roles.
These two meet by chance in a lift. Their lives will never be the same again.....
Such a lovely story, it really was. I am not easily swayed by romantic stories but these two really made me believe :)
A romantic novel without being overly sickly sweet or too predictable. I didn't read the first book in the series but I think this reads really well as a standalone anyway.
5 stars from me.
July 21, 2022
I liked the two protagonists in this story a lot. They were different from the norm because they were not perfect twenty somethings with brilliant careers but older with issues of their own and professions they were struggling to do well in.
Lucinda, the chef with a catering outfit and Alex the actor who is considered a bit of a let down by his family, meet in the elevator and are forced to interact when a third person with them falls ill and they have to save her. Not very impressed with each other, they nevertheless find a lot to talk about the next time they meet in a not so expected situation.
I liked the pace of the book and the way the relationship was built up.
Lucinda, the chef with a catering outfit and Alex the actor who is considered a bit of a let down by his family, meet in the elevator and are forced to interact when a third person with them falls ill and they have to save her. Not very impressed with each other, they nevertheless find a lot to talk about the next time they meet in a not so expected situation.
I liked the pace of the book and the way the relationship was built up.
June 5, 2022
I love books like this to read because you quickly become invested in the protagonist and share the highs and lows of her journey.
Beautifully written and hard to put down.
A pleasure to read!
Beautifully written and hard to put down.
A pleasure to read!
August 31, 2022
The narrative follows both of the main love interests, Lucinda and Alex who find themselves in numerous situations worthy of a rom-com flick. Huston instantly places the reader in a gripping, intense situation. Lucinda owns a catering business and is on a trip to the London offices of the Richards Group in the hopes of renewing a contract. She is in a lift and trips but a Mr. Handsome who turns out to be Alex, catches her. But there’s no time for Lucinda to catch her breath as an old woman starts having a heart attack. Alex freezes unsure of what to do while Lucinda springs into action and helps her. Once the old woman is safely in an ambulance both Lucinda and Alex part their separate ways. They both felt a connection, a spark, but are both trapped in complicated situations.
Lucinda is living with her ex-fiancé, Chris, and has no time for love. She doesn’t want to get involved with another hopeless guy who will drain her time and energy. Lucinda finds it difficult to believe in love, the one, because she has grown up believing that it doesn’t exist. Her mother drummed it into her ever since she can remember that love was a load of rubbish, a way for card manufacturers, florists, anyone to make money. But with Alex she felt something, something that might make him the only exception.
Alex lives with his girlfriend Nicole who spends most of her time attached to her phone, addressing her thousands of followers on instagram. He doesn’t see the relationship going anywhere but has yet to find the moment to break things off. Alex works as an actor and enjoys learning and preparing for a role, especially if it gives him a reason to pick up a new skill. But since he met Lucinda he feels distracted and can’t stop thinking about her. He has been hurt in love before and has since settled for convenience rather than passion. He doubts that Lucinda feels anything for him as whenever they meet she shows a strong disdain towards him. But is that all a front and is there a reason why she is so standoffish with him?
Both characters are perfect for each other but they are just too darn stubborn to admit it. They are both convinced that the other dislikes them. However it is more than obvious that they are attracted but they struggle to find the words to express how they feel and keep missing the chance to finally open up. You will find yourself screaming at the page for these two to just kiss already and get a room. They are both broken, lost souls who have found one another and learning that maybe they deserve a second chance at love.
I give The Only Exception By Claire Huston a Four out of Five paw rating.
Brilliant, funny and beautifully heart warming this book will melt the coldest of hearts to believe in love, the only exception.
I loved that this book is a part of the Love in the Comptons series but can be read as a standalone. They feature familiar settings and characters that intertwine with the story. Huston always surrounds her characters in gorgeous locations that gives the reader all the feels of a romantic movie. It radiates a warm, cosy, comforting atmosphere that absorbs you from beginning to end.
Lucinda is living with her ex-fiancé, Chris, and has no time for love. She doesn’t want to get involved with another hopeless guy who will drain her time and energy. Lucinda finds it difficult to believe in love, the one, because she has grown up believing that it doesn’t exist. Her mother drummed it into her ever since she can remember that love was a load of rubbish, a way for card manufacturers, florists, anyone to make money. But with Alex she felt something, something that might make him the only exception.
Alex lives with his girlfriend Nicole who spends most of her time attached to her phone, addressing her thousands of followers on instagram. He doesn’t see the relationship going anywhere but has yet to find the moment to break things off. Alex works as an actor and enjoys learning and preparing for a role, especially if it gives him a reason to pick up a new skill. But since he met Lucinda he feels distracted and can’t stop thinking about her. He has been hurt in love before and has since settled for convenience rather than passion. He doubts that Lucinda feels anything for him as whenever they meet she shows a strong disdain towards him. But is that all a front and is there a reason why she is so standoffish with him?
Both characters are perfect for each other but they are just too darn stubborn to admit it. They are both convinced that the other dislikes them. However it is more than obvious that they are attracted but they struggle to find the words to express how they feel and keep missing the chance to finally open up. You will find yourself screaming at the page for these two to just kiss already and get a room. They are both broken, lost souls who have found one another and learning that maybe they deserve a second chance at love.
I give The Only Exception By Claire Huston a Four out of Five paw rating.
Brilliant, funny and beautifully heart warming this book will melt the coldest of hearts to believe in love, the only exception.
I loved that this book is a part of the Love in the Comptons series but can be read as a standalone. They feature familiar settings and characters that intertwine with the story. Huston always surrounds her characters in gorgeous locations that gives the reader all the feels of a romantic movie. It radiates a warm, cosy, comforting atmosphere that absorbs you from beginning to end.
June 7, 2022
When I reviewed the author’s first book, Art and Soul, I remember mentioning that my first thought on closing the book with a satisfied sigh was “this is the best romance I’ve read in ages”. Well, I think she’s done it again – I enjoyed every moment of this lovely romance and, once again, really only need to say “just read it”.
Although there’s a touch of electricity between them (well, he is rather gorgeous), Lucinda’s not too impressed by Alex at their first meeting – she leaps into action when an elderly lady has a heart attack in the lift they’re sharing (thank goodness for that first aid course she went on…), while he just freezes. They meet again, and she’s spiky and difficult – her catering business is her passion and taking off nicely, there are real complications to her home arrangements, and she’s really not looking for a relationship (as her mother has taught her, love is nothing but a palliative fiction). Alex’s private life is a little complicated too, with a live-in girlfriend who’s far more invested in her on-line presence and the possibility of stardom than she is in him: he’s a moderately successful actor, though never in a leading role, and is perhaps most appreciated by his fans for his one advertising voiceover (loved that one!) and his particularly impressive rear. But they’re forced together again when invited for tea by the woman they saved in the lift – and so one of the loveliest slow burn romances unexpectedly begins to develop.
For a romance to work, it must have the right chemistry – and that’s something the author makes you really feel from their very first encounter. The writing is so clever – she tells the story from both their perspectives, moving seamlessly between them, allowing you into their thoughts and feelings, making you like and understand them in a way that has you really wanting them to knock down any obstacles and find their happy ending. The exchanges between them crackle and sparkle – the author has a wonderful touch with dialogue – and the humour that threads through the story is perfectly judged, sometimes touched with poignancy, frequently laugh-out-loud. At one point, the story becomes a series of text messages between them – that’s often not a favourite device with me, but in this context it works quite perfectly.
These were two characters I entirely took to my heart, their connection completely real and believable – and there’s a great supporting cast too. I read this book in a single sitting, became entirely caught up in their lives, hoping Lucinda would drop her defences, that they could both overcome the baggage of their pasts – and, while I’m not going to go into the ins and outs of the story, the book’s ending is one of those perfect cinematic moments that brought a tear of sheer joy to the eye of this old romantic.
This was a book I really loved (and I suspect you can probably tell…) – really accomplished writing, a romance I believed in, filled with warmth and feel-good, the perfect emotional touch, laced with humour… and all that quite wonderful chemistry. Claire Huston was already on my “must read” authors list – I now can’t wait to see what she does next. Highly recommended by me.
Although there’s a touch of electricity between them (well, he is rather gorgeous), Lucinda’s not too impressed by Alex at their first meeting – she leaps into action when an elderly lady has a heart attack in the lift they’re sharing (thank goodness for that first aid course she went on…), while he just freezes. They meet again, and she’s spiky and difficult – her catering business is her passion and taking off nicely, there are real complications to her home arrangements, and she’s really not looking for a relationship (as her mother has taught her, love is nothing but a palliative fiction). Alex’s private life is a little complicated too, with a live-in girlfriend who’s far more invested in her on-line presence and the possibility of stardom than she is in him: he’s a moderately successful actor, though never in a leading role, and is perhaps most appreciated by his fans for his one advertising voiceover (loved that one!) and his particularly impressive rear. But they’re forced together again when invited for tea by the woman they saved in the lift – and so one of the loveliest slow burn romances unexpectedly begins to develop.
For a romance to work, it must have the right chemistry – and that’s something the author makes you really feel from their very first encounter. The writing is so clever – she tells the story from both their perspectives, moving seamlessly between them, allowing you into their thoughts and feelings, making you like and understand them in a way that has you really wanting them to knock down any obstacles and find their happy ending. The exchanges between them crackle and sparkle – the author has a wonderful touch with dialogue – and the humour that threads through the story is perfectly judged, sometimes touched with poignancy, frequently laugh-out-loud. At one point, the story becomes a series of text messages between them – that’s often not a favourite device with me, but in this context it works quite perfectly.
These were two characters I entirely took to my heart, their connection completely real and believable – and there’s a great supporting cast too. I read this book in a single sitting, became entirely caught up in their lives, hoping Lucinda would drop her defences, that they could both overcome the baggage of their pasts – and, while I’m not going to go into the ins and outs of the story, the book’s ending is one of those perfect cinematic moments that brought a tear of sheer joy to the eye of this old romantic.
This was a book I really loved (and I suspect you can probably tell…) – really accomplished writing, a romance I believed in, filled with warmth and feel-good, the perfect emotional touch, laced with humour… and all that quite wonderful chemistry. Claire Huston was already on my “must read” authors list – I now can’t wait to see what she does next. Highly recommended by me.
June 18, 2022
I don’t read a lot of romantic fiction, but after three crime novels, one VERY dark Scandi Noir, an escape from a sinister cult and a book about coercive control I needed some light relief. And that’s exactly what I got with this light-hearted, uplifting novel from Claire Huston.
Probably my favourite of hers so far, I adored the two main characters – grumpy but witty Lucinda and handsome actor Alex. They meet in a lift when an elderly (probably near my age) woman has a heart attack. Alex freezes (we find out why later on) and Lucinda takes over, performing all the right moves to keep her alive until the paramedics arrive. This includes barking orders at Alex, who obligingly obeys her.
There’s all the usual will-they-won’t-they, a lot of ‘pride’ (Lucinda hates accepting help from a mere man) and a bit of ‘prejudice’ – ie good-looking actor equals airhead – and at first they misunderstand each other. It doesn’t matter though for Lucinda, because she doesn’t believe in love at first sight, or ‘the one’ or any of that rubbish.
‘It all starts with attraction,’ she tells Alex. ‘Hormones, pheromones, whatever. Your body makes dopamine, adrenaline and serotonin….they give you a natural addictive high…but you get used to it and the effect wears off in time.’ So her mother told her. It’s the rule.
But Alex is smart, funny and sexy and Lucinda just can’t resist. So is there an exception to the rule? We are going to find out.
On an aside, Lucinda asks Alex what he is working on next. ‘I may be in Stratford for a few weeks,’ he tells her. ‘There’s an outdoor production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. One of the actors has just pulled out and the director thought of me.’
Lucinda is not a Shakespeare fan. ‘Yeah. Sounds great,’ she says with all the enthusiasm of someone talking about invasive dentistry. Her introduction at school was a trial, the teacher making it seem like gobbledygook, flouncing about, misery and then everyone dies. My own introduction was an outdoor production of the same play in the grounds of the Alveston Manor Hotel. I was about eight or nine. I thought the actors were film stars. I got their autographs on my programme. I still have it. They were actually students at Oxford University. But it shows how bad experiences can spoil something for life, while good ones stay with you forever.
Many thanks to the author for an ARC. I really enjoyed it.
Probably my favourite of hers so far, I adored the two main characters – grumpy but witty Lucinda and handsome actor Alex. They meet in a lift when an elderly (probably near my age) woman has a heart attack. Alex freezes (we find out why later on) and Lucinda takes over, performing all the right moves to keep her alive until the paramedics arrive. This includes barking orders at Alex, who obligingly obeys her.
There’s all the usual will-they-won’t-they, a lot of ‘pride’ (Lucinda hates accepting help from a mere man) and a bit of ‘prejudice’ – ie good-looking actor equals airhead – and at first they misunderstand each other. It doesn’t matter though for Lucinda, because she doesn’t believe in love at first sight, or ‘the one’ or any of that rubbish.
‘It all starts with attraction,’ she tells Alex. ‘Hormones, pheromones, whatever. Your body makes dopamine, adrenaline and serotonin….they give you a natural addictive high…but you get used to it and the effect wears off in time.’ So her mother told her. It’s the rule.
But Alex is smart, funny and sexy and Lucinda just can’t resist. So is there an exception to the rule? We are going to find out.
On an aside, Lucinda asks Alex what he is working on next. ‘I may be in Stratford for a few weeks,’ he tells her. ‘There’s an outdoor production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. One of the actors has just pulled out and the director thought of me.’
Lucinda is not a Shakespeare fan. ‘Yeah. Sounds great,’ she says with all the enthusiasm of someone talking about invasive dentistry. Her introduction at school was a trial, the teacher making it seem like gobbledygook, flouncing about, misery and then everyone dies. My own introduction was an outdoor production of the same play in the grounds of the Alveston Manor Hotel. I was about eight or nine. I thought the actors were film stars. I got their autographs on my programme. I still have it. They were actually students at Oxford University. But it shows how bad experiences can spoil something for life, while good ones stay with you forever.
Many thanks to the author for an ARC. I really enjoyed it.
May 29, 2022
During an inopportune moment in a public lift, an elderly lady suffers a heart attack, leaving her fellow passengers in the lift to help and assist her. Two of those people are complete strangers Lucinda and Alex. After this episode, where Alex seems to almost freak out after what happened, Lucinda has a pretty poor opinion of him, she knew what to do after being on a works first aid course but Alex just froze, offering no help at all. Alex is good at his job as an actor, working on popular TV series, where everyone knows who he is, but when confronted with an elderly lady having a heart attack he just couldn't cope. Lucinda hopes she won't see Alex again, her first opinion of him wasn't a good one, but then shortly after she bumps into him at work. Lucinda's mum then drops a big bombshell that she is getting married, Lucinda just doesn't believe in happy ever after love, she can't see how it would work, especially after just finishing a relationship with her ex Chris, who she had shared a house with.
The elderly lady Carol Russell recovers well and is so grateful for what they have done for her that she invites them to afternoon tea at her house, but when Lucinda arrives she is certainly taken aback by her house, it is certainly not what she imagined. How is this situation going to pan out, will they be at loggerheads or will they react differently to each other?
Carols granddaughter Vee is also present and she straight away makes a bee-line for Alex, but he doesn't react as she hoped he would.
After making a get-away from Carol's house, the long drive back makes can ideal moment to discuss together their childhoods and their parent's marriages and then certain things make sense to why Alex behaved the way he did that day in the lift.
Full of romance which may take a while to get going, but ends up being a romantic escapism story with some interesting characters. Culminating in such a lovely romantic way, this would make an ideal beach read. A heart-shaped five-star read.
The elderly lady Carol Russell recovers well and is so grateful for what they have done for her that she invites them to afternoon tea at her house, but when Lucinda arrives she is certainly taken aback by her house, it is certainly not what she imagined. How is this situation going to pan out, will they be at loggerheads or will they react differently to each other?
Carols granddaughter Vee is also present and she straight away makes a bee-line for Alex, but he doesn't react as she hoped he would.
After making a get-away from Carol's house, the long drive back makes can ideal moment to discuss together their childhoods and their parent's marriages and then certain things make sense to why Alex behaved the way he did that day in the lift.
Full of romance which may take a while to get going, but ends up being a romantic escapism story with some interesting characters. Culminating in such a lovely romantic way, this would make an ideal beach read. A heart-shaped five-star read.
June 12, 2022
Lucinda is a successful chef who owns her own catering business. She still lives with her ex-fiancée but doesn’t feel settled. Lucinda has no romance in her life and she doesn’t believe in true love. But when she meets actor Alex Fraser and he makes her question her beliefs especially as their paths keep crossing. Could Alex be the exception to her rule regarding true love?
So on a gloomy Sunday I curled up with this book and it was the best idea I had because it definitely lifted my spirits. That first meeting between Lucinda and Alex was just so cute and like something right out of the movies because she quite literally falls into his arms after tripping over her own feet but has no idea who he is.
This was definitely a slow burn romance and it was a book I adored. The contrast between the two characters was just perfect and they complemented each other perfectly. Lucinda doesn’t believe in true love because this has been instilled in her by her mother from a young age after her father left them. It doesn’t help that her fiancée dumped her because he claimed he’d fallen in love at first sight with another woman. To Lucinda true love or love at first sight is a chemical reaction. Alex on the other hand does and doesn’t understand Lucinda’s belief in true love. Lucinda has a short fuse and she can lose her temper very quickly. When she’s about to lose her temper its evident from her face she’s mad or she gets snappy. Alex on the other hand hides his emotions well but at the same time he also has a temper but when he’s angry he kind of shuts down. The fascinating thing about Lucinda and Alex is that they have this unspoken connection. They don’t have to say in words how they are feeling because the other one just knows. What was also really interesting was the fact that they just bonded from the beginning and literal sparks flew when they first met. They can talk to each other honestly about themselves and about what happened in their past without any inhibitions. Both have demanding jobs and have been in relationships where their partner clearly didn’t understand them.
I loved Lucinda’s love for all things movies and like her I too am a very big geek. Some of my favourite scenes included the argument in the rain (this was just perfection), room swapping and late night cooking and feasts. I read this book in 24 hours and it was like a rom com movie but in book form.
If you like rom com romances that will make you fall in love with the storyline and characters from the first page this is the book for you.
So on a gloomy Sunday I curled up with this book and it was the best idea I had because it definitely lifted my spirits. That first meeting between Lucinda and Alex was just so cute and like something right out of the movies because she quite literally falls into his arms after tripping over her own feet but has no idea who he is.
This was definitely a slow burn romance and it was a book I adored. The contrast between the two characters was just perfect and they complemented each other perfectly. Lucinda doesn’t believe in true love because this has been instilled in her by her mother from a young age after her father left them. It doesn’t help that her fiancée dumped her because he claimed he’d fallen in love at first sight with another woman. To Lucinda true love or love at first sight is a chemical reaction. Alex on the other hand does and doesn’t understand Lucinda’s belief in true love. Lucinda has a short fuse and she can lose her temper very quickly. When she’s about to lose her temper its evident from her face she’s mad or she gets snappy. Alex on the other hand hides his emotions well but at the same time he also has a temper but when he’s angry he kind of shuts down. The fascinating thing about Lucinda and Alex is that they have this unspoken connection. They don’t have to say in words how they are feeling because the other one just knows. What was also really interesting was the fact that they just bonded from the beginning and literal sparks flew when they first met. They can talk to each other honestly about themselves and about what happened in their past without any inhibitions. Both have demanding jobs and have been in relationships where their partner clearly didn’t understand them.
I loved Lucinda’s love for all things movies and like her I too am a very big geek. Some of my favourite scenes included the argument in the rain (this was just perfection), room swapping and late night cooking and feasts. I read this book in 24 hours and it was like a rom com movie but in book form.
If you like rom com romances that will make you fall in love with the storyline and characters from the first page this is the book for you.
June 10, 2022
A beaker of “bubbly, fizzy happiness”, this gentle, uplifting marvel is so sweet and so endearing you will yearn for a sequel. Luckily, for this reader, there is a prequel, and another book by this talented author just waiting to dive into.
Lucinda Green, a 40 year-old raven-haired beauty, is a chef and owner of her own catering company. With a past that has left her irreconcilably disenchanted with the notion of “true love”, Lucinda is a sharp, no-nonsense, ambitious, somewhat grumpy, quick-witted, impatient and scornful woman, who, perhaps most predominantly of all - maintains a vise-like grip on her steely independence.
It doesn’t take long for the reader to determine that Lucinda, as real a person as you will meet between the pages, is clearly vulnerable - hiding her fragility and past rejection behind a cool, capable and biting persona, one that only the very brave and very determined would attempt to breach.
“If you don’t give someone your whole heart, it’s pretty hard for them to break it.”
Alex Fraser is a forty-three year-old actor, who carries the unmistakable scent of citrus, pepper and something mysterious (perhaps mint?). An insecure, endearing, and effortlessly charming man, Alex carries a secret hurt that he does not discuss - a hurt which unfortunately periodically reveals itself in heart-racing anxiety-attacks that are becoming impossible to conceal.
When Lucinda and Alex stumble unwittingly into each other’s orbit, a series of events, as unpredictable as they are entertaining, offer proof that life, as hard as we may try to contain and restrain it, has its own way of showing us the truly exceptional.
For is it not abundantly clear - when faced with “sticky toffee pudding and custard waiting for you on the rose garden balcony” - which of us can (or even, should) try to resist?
A great big thank you to the author and the publisher for an ARC of this book. All thoughts presented are my own.
Lucinda Green, a 40 year-old raven-haired beauty, is a chef and owner of her own catering company. With a past that has left her irreconcilably disenchanted with the notion of “true love”, Lucinda is a sharp, no-nonsense, ambitious, somewhat grumpy, quick-witted, impatient and scornful woman, who, perhaps most predominantly of all - maintains a vise-like grip on her steely independence.
It doesn’t take long for the reader to determine that Lucinda, as real a person as you will meet between the pages, is clearly vulnerable - hiding her fragility and past rejection behind a cool, capable and biting persona, one that only the very brave and very determined would attempt to breach.
“If you don’t give someone your whole heart, it’s pretty hard for them to break it.”
Alex Fraser is a forty-three year-old actor, who carries the unmistakable scent of citrus, pepper and something mysterious (perhaps mint?). An insecure, endearing, and effortlessly charming man, Alex carries a secret hurt that he does not discuss - a hurt which unfortunately periodically reveals itself in heart-racing anxiety-attacks that are becoming impossible to conceal.
When Lucinda and Alex stumble unwittingly into each other’s orbit, a series of events, as unpredictable as they are entertaining, offer proof that life, as hard as we may try to contain and restrain it, has its own way of showing us the truly exceptional.
For is it not abundantly clear - when faced with “sticky toffee pudding and custard waiting for you on the rose garden balcony” - which of us can (or even, should) try to resist?
A great big thank you to the author and the publisher for an ARC of this book. All thoughts presented are my own.
May 25, 2022
Having read and loved Claire Huston’s first two books (Art and Soul & Elle’s A to Z of Love) I was very excited to read The Only Exception and I have not been disappointed!
Lucinda is a bit of a prickly character to begin with but as we get to know her, we start to realise why she is how she is. I really warmed to her as the story progressed. Her first meeting with Alex Fraser is under rather stressful circumstances but it’s obvious they left an impression on each other. Lucinda doesn’t believe in true love though or that there is any such thing as ‘the one’. Her mother has always told her so.
Alex is such a lovely character. He is in a stale relationship with his younger actress girlfriend, and I couldn’t help but feel for him. I always find it quite sad when people feel they must settle for what they have when they could be destined for real happiness. The same goes for Lucinda’s situation.
I loved the time Lucinda and Alex spend together when invited to the grand home of the lady they saved. She’s a fabulous character! Not altogether likeable, but definitely interesting. The dog stole the show though!
There are some lovely characters throughout this story who add such depth and warmth.
There is so much to love about this book. It is sweet, and funny, and romantic, and uplifting. The ultimate feel-good story! So beautifully written. I LOVED it!
All the stars for me!
**Many thanks to Claire Huston for my ARC**
https://chataboutbooks.blog/2022/06/0...
Lucinda is a bit of a prickly character to begin with but as we get to know her, we start to realise why she is how she is. I really warmed to her as the story progressed. Her first meeting with Alex Fraser is under rather stressful circumstances but it’s obvious they left an impression on each other. Lucinda doesn’t believe in true love though or that there is any such thing as ‘the one’. Her mother has always told her so.
Alex is such a lovely character. He is in a stale relationship with his younger actress girlfriend, and I couldn’t help but feel for him. I always find it quite sad when people feel they must settle for what they have when they could be destined for real happiness. The same goes for Lucinda’s situation.
I loved the time Lucinda and Alex spend together when invited to the grand home of the lady they saved. She’s a fabulous character! Not altogether likeable, but definitely interesting. The dog stole the show though!
There are some lovely characters throughout this story who add such depth and warmth.
There is so much to love about this book. It is sweet, and funny, and romantic, and uplifting. The ultimate feel-good story! So beautifully written. I LOVED it!
All the stars for me!
**Many thanks to Claire Huston for my ARC**
https://chataboutbooks.blog/2022/06/0...
June 7, 2022
This is the 3rd book by Claire that I have read and enjoyed. It shares locations and a character (Becky) with her first book, but you don't need to have read that book to enjoy The Only Exception, which is a self-contained love story.
The book begins with an alarming incident in a lift, and this is where Lucinda also first encounters Alex Fraser. Turns out Alex is very well known as a public figure, to everyone except Lucinda. So, despite the initial spark, she's happy to stay in her own little bubble.
Of course once she meets Alex again and so do her friends, she realises he is a little more than she first realised when she got off on the wrong foot with him. Lucinda is far too busy with her catering business for any romance and she has enough on her plate living with her ex fiancé too. Meanwhile she discovers Alex has a significant other who is a budding IG star, she really doesn't need to get involved.
I loved the characters of both Alex and Lucinda. Their partners not so much. I got really quite irate about the way his girlfriend Nicole treated Alex. So of course I spent the book wishing Alex and Lucinda would get together, but it seemed it was not to be, as so many obstacles and mis understandings intervened. I really enjoyed my time settling down with the story.
Claire always invests time in a back story for her characters and makes them and their careers believable, and this book was no exception. I really relished the insights into the acting and catering worlds.
There was also a twist that I never saw coming. I had to rethink very quickly one of the characters whom I had formed a strong opinion about in my mind from the start of the book.
The book begins with an alarming incident in a lift, and this is where Lucinda also first encounters Alex Fraser. Turns out Alex is very well known as a public figure, to everyone except Lucinda. So, despite the initial spark, she's happy to stay in her own little bubble.
Of course once she meets Alex again and so do her friends, she realises he is a little more than she first realised when she got off on the wrong foot with him. Lucinda is far too busy with her catering business for any romance and she has enough on her plate living with her ex fiancé too. Meanwhile she discovers Alex has a significant other who is a budding IG star, she really doesn't need to get involved.
I loved the characters of both Alex and Lucinda. Their partners not so much. I got really quite irate about the way his girlfriend Nicole treated Alex. So of course I spent the book wishing Alex and Lucinda would get together, but it seemed it was not to be, as so many obstacles and mis understandings intervened. I really enjoyed my time settling down with the story.
Claire always invests time in a back story for her characters and makes them and their careers believable, and this book was no exception. I really relished the insights into the acting and catering worlds.
There was also a twist that I never saw coming. I had to rethink very quickly one of the characters whom I had formed a strong opinion about in my mind from the start of the book.
June 16, 2022
Firstly, let me count the ways why I love this book so much…
Wonderfully engaging and likeable characters who meet In the most natural and unexpected of ways – honestly, Lucinda and Alex could be any one of us standing in an elevator as it breaks down – which really is my idea of hell, but if it means meeting the likes of drop-dead gorgeous Alex😉
Charming and feel-good slow-burning romance (who doesn’t like a romance which makes the reader hanging on every word with anticipation?)
Lots of emotional drama and good humour.
OK, confession time; this is the first book by Claire Huston I’ve read….I know shock and horror! So I hadn’t read the first book in this series; Art and Soul, despite it sitting on my Kindle for who knows how long, but I can say without a doubt that you can very easily read this as a stand-alone, I never felt as though I had missed out on anything, but it has given me the push needed to finally read the first book.
I may have mentioned it but this book really was an absolute delight to read, I really enjoyed the slow-burning romance between Lucinda and Alex, their chemistry is spot on they have an instant attraction. I love the tension which builds from the moment they meet to when they finally give in, the journey to happily ever after is one full of misunderstandings and crossroads.
The Only Exception is an absolute delight; charming and cheerful, perfect for a lazy day of doing nothing but falling into a good book – and this is the perfect book to find yourself falling into.
A definite must-read, if you love the likes of Katie Fforde and Milly Johnson then this book is an absolute must-read!
Wonderfully engaging and likeable characters who meet In the most natural and unexpected of ways – honestly, Lucinda and Alex could be any one of us standing in an elevator as it breaks down – which really is my idea of hell, but if it means meeting the likes of drop-dead gorgeous Alex😉
Charming and feel-good slow-burning romance (who doesn’t like a romance which makes the reader hanging on every word with anticipation?)
Lots of emotional drama and good humour.
OK, confession time; this is the first book by Claire Huston I’ve read….I know shock and horror! So I hadn’t read the first book in this series; Art and Soul, despite it sitting on my Kindle for who knows how long, but I can say without a doubt that you can very easily read this as a stand-alone, I never felt as though I had missed out on anything, but it has given me the push needed to finally read the first book.
I may have mentioned it but this book really was an absolute delight to read, I really enjoyed the slow-burning romance between Lucinda and Alex, their chemistry is spot on they have an instant attraction. I love the tension which builds from the moment they meet to when they finally give in, the journey to happily ever after is one full of misunderstandings and crossroads.
The Only Exception is an absolute delight; charming and cheerful, perfect for a lazy day of doing nothing but falling into a good book – and this is the perfect book to find yourself falling into.
A definite must-read, if you love the likes of Katie Fforde and Milly Johnson then this book is an absolute must-read!
June 11, 2022
This smart, funny and romantic story was a joy to read. Lucinda and Alex were well matched as the opposites clashing. Lucinda was emotionally burned by her previous partner, yet she still shares a house with him. Alex is trying to escape the notoriety that his fame has bestowed upon him but remains willing to seek out romance with Lucinda.
The story opens with a dramatic, life-saving moment as Lucinda and Alex react to the collapse of a woman in a lift. Lucinda instinctively follows her first aid training while Alex freezes. Lucinda soon berates him, and he eventually assists. Little could they know, how that moment would play out for their future.
I really loved this pairing, Alex was almost irritating with his positive, happy outlook and Lucinda was positively frigid with her reluctance to engage with him. There was an immediate chemistry which Lucinda was not prepared to acknowledge for what it was.
Lady Russell and her annoying granddaughter, Veronica, provided some light relief and an insight into the eccentricities of the landed gentry. I thoroughly enjoyed the bacon and egg midnight feast. My imagination went into overdrive as I tried to envisage the grounds of their ancestral home.
Of course, this book was destined to have a happy ending and I loved the twists and turns that brought them to that conclusion. I note that this is book 2 in a series so I will seek out book 1 and wait patiently for the next instalment.
The story opens with a dramatic, life-saving moment as Lucinda and Alex react to the collapse of a woman in a lift. Lucinda instinctively follows her first aid training while Alex freezes. Lucinda soon berates him, and he eventually assists. Little could they know, how that moment would play out for their future.
I really loved this pairing, Alex was almost irritating with his positive, happy outlook and Lucinda was positively frigid with her reluctance to engage with him. There was an immediate chemistry which Lucinda was not prepared to acknowledge for what it was.
Lady Russell and her annoying granddaughter, Veronica, provided some light relief and an insight into the eccentricities of the landed gentry. I thoroughly enjoyed the bacon and egg midnight feast. My imagination went into overdrive as I tried to envisage the grounds of their ancestral home.
Of course, this book was destined to have a happy ending and I loved the twists and turns that brought them to that conclusion. I note that this is book 2 in a series so I will seek out book 1 and wait patiently for the next instalment.
June 8, 2022
Raised by her mother who insisted that there is no such thing as true love or soulmates, Lucinda does not expect much in the way of love. Life has confirmed this to be true for Lucinda. The story started a little slow for me as I needed time to warm up to Lucinda. She is a very independent and headstrong catering business owner, with a protective flair and a quick tongue. Do not stop reading, it is worth getting to know her and her background! By the next few chapters, I was invested in Lucinda and the dashing actor, Alex, beloved by many women for his handsome body and the character(s) he has played. But is there more to him? And does he appreciate the attention? It's a bit of an Elizabeth Bennett/Mr. Darcy dance as the plot carries you to a most satisfying end. I liked that the story is told by rotating the point of view back and forth between Lucinda and Alex. Huston reminds us that we often misinterpret the words and actions of others - which is what leads to missed opportunities and unnecessary stress and heartache. This is a light and pleasant read that leaves you feeling that the world is a good place...
June 12, 2022
Sometimes a book just manages to slide into the right book-shaped hole. This one did it for me. A light-hearted romance, with sympathetic characters. Lucinda has been taught the rule that there is no such thing as proper love, it's just a chemical reaction that wears off. But when her mother announces that she's about to marry, and Lucinda herself bumps into Alex Fraser, an actor who helps her save a woman's life when they are trapped in a lift, Lucinda finds herself questioning that rule, and wondering whether perhaps, if it is a rule, then there must be an exception.
From the beginning, I enjoyed the perspective of both characters. Alex is an actor who throws himself into his roles. Lucinda works hard to run her own business. Their paths cross several times, to the annoyance of both, but in the end everything works out. No massive tension, just a gentle read, but one which moves along swiftly enough to pull the reader along anyway.
This is marked book 2 in a series, but they are linked by a major character in book 1 being a minor character in this one, and if you haven't read the first you won't feel you've missed out (but read it anyway; that's good too).
From the beginning, I enjoyed the perspective of both characters. Alex is an actor who throws himself into his roles. Lucinda works hard to run her own business. Their paths cross several times, to the annoyance of both, but in the end everything works out. No massive tension, just a gentle read, but one which moves along swiftly enough to pull the reader along anyway.
This is marked book 2 in a series, but they are linked by a major character in book 1 being a minor character in this one, and if you haven't read the first you won't feel you've missed out (but read it anyway; that's good too).
June 8, 2022
The only Exception is so lovely. It's exactly as advertised - sweet, heartwarming romantic comedy.
I loved Alex. I wanted to wrap him up and take him home. He may be a good looking actor but he's quite insecure and shy and it's adorably cute. He also obsesses over texts and how to reply which made him very relatable and likeable.
My favourite part of the story was when Alex and Lucinda went to visit Lady Russell. There was a shift in their relationship here where they go from frosty acquaintances to allies and friends. It was really well done and it had me smiling.
All their interactions were laced with great banter and the promise of romance. It's one of those books where I wanted to read it slowly so I could savour the detail, romance and humour but at the same time, I couldn't wait to see Alex and Lucinda get together so the pages turned at record speed regardless.
This is such a fun and uplifting, feel-good story and I hope there'll be more Love the Comptons to come.
I loved Alex. I wanted to wrap him up and take him home. He may be a good looking actor but he's quite insecure and shy and it's adorably cute. He also obsesses over texts and how to reply which made him very relatable and likeable.
My favourite part of the story was when Alex and Lucinda went to visit Lady Russell. There was a shift in their relationship here where they go from frosty acquaintances to allies and friends. It was really well done and it had me smiling.
All their interactions were laced with great banter and the promise of romance. It's one of those books where I wanted to read it slowly so I could savour the detail, romance and humour but at the same time, I couldn't wait to see Alex and Lucinda get together so the pages turned at record speed regardless.
This is such a fun and uplifting, feel-good story and I hope there'll be more Love the Comptons to come.
June 7, 2022
Claire Huston’s writing just keep getting better and better!
Lucinda Green knows she has no room for complaint and yet she feels as if something is missing from her life. Her catering business is going well and she lives in a small house, renovated to bring out it’s beauty – even if she does have to share it with her ex-fiance. It can’t be the lack of romance – years of non-belief in ‘true love’ have left her immune .. or so she thinks. Then along comes Alex Fraser and there are real sparks between them. As she gets to know him better, Lucinda realises that he is clever, smart and funny – and, oh, not to forget handsome. But, of course, none of that matters because she doesn’t believe in ‘the one’ . . .
This is the author’s third novel and she has definitely developed as a writer in that time. This is easily as good a contemporary romance as I have come across and, although the second in series, it is very much a stand-alone read. Beautifully developed characters and a terrific storyline with plenty going on will entertain even the most discerning of readers. With The Only Exception, Claire Huston puts herself firmly on the stage with the most popular authors and she fully deserves to be mixing with the best sellers. Well worth a full house of sparkling stars and my highest recommendation.
Lucinda Green knows she has no room for complaint and yet she feels as if something is missing from her life. Her catering business is going well and she lives in a small house, renovated to bring out it’s beauty – even if she does have to share it with her ex-fiance. It can’t be the lack of romance – years of non-belief in ‘true love’ have left her immune .. or so she thinks. Then along comes Alex Fraser and there are real sparks between them. As she gets to know him better, Lucinda realises that he is clever, smart and funny – and, oh, not to forget handsome. But, of course, none of that matters because she doesn’t believe in ‘the one’ . . .
This is the author’s third novel and she has definitely developed as a writer in that time. This is easily as good a contemporary romance as I have come across and, although the second in series, it is very much a stand-alone read. Beautifully developed characters and a terrific storyline with plenty going on will entertain even the most discerning of readers. With The Only Exception, Claire Huston puts herself firmly on the stage with the most popular authors and she fully deserves to be mixing with the best sellers. Well worth a full house of sparkling stars and my highest recommendation.
June 7, 2022
First of all I have to say The Only Exception was a joy to read! I loved getting to know both Lucinda and Alex. This was definitely a slow burn romance but it worked so well. Both Lucinda and Alex might share an instant attraction but they didn’t necessarily make the best first impressions. With every interaction it was lovely to see their chemistry grow stronger even with a few misunderstandings along the way.
I do have to quickly mention that The Only Exception is the second book in the Love in the Comptons series but it easily works as a standalone. So no worries there at all. However if you do get the chance, I highly recommend reading Art and Soul too!
There is a wonderful heartwarming feel to The Only Exception and I couldn’t help but smile my way through. There were even a few giggles as the characters found themselves in some interesting situations. At the heart of this book is a sweet and heartfelt romance which easily captured my full attention. Let’s just say I might have a tiny crush on Alex, sigh. The Only Exception is a wonderfully rounded story filled with delicious food, heartwarming moments and a stunning romance!
I do have to quickly mention that The Only Exception is the second book in the Love in the Comptons series but it easily works as a standalone. So no worries there at all. However if you do get the chance, I highly recommend reading Art and Soul too!
There is a wonderful heartwarming feel to The Only Exception and I couldn’t help but smile my way through. There were even a few giggles as the characters found themselves in some interesting situations. At the heart of this book is a sweet and heartfelt romance which easily captured my full attention. Let’s just say I might have a tiny crush on Alex, sigh. The Only Exception is a wonderfully rounded story filled with delicious food, heartwarming moments and a stunning romance!
June 15, 2022
This is the second book in a series but can easily be stand alone.
This is the first book by Claire Huston I have read and thoroughly enjoyed it.
I liked the initial chemistry between Lucinda and Alex and then the slow burn of will they won't they. Both are fiercely private individuals so when they went to tea with Lady Carol, the story really took off.
I love how the characters were written and developed and felt they were very relatable. There was also an excellent diverse range of supporting characters.
This is the first book by Claire Huston I have read but I'm going to check out her others now.
Thank you Rachels Random Resources for my gifted copy and spot on the tour.
This is the first book by Claire Huston I have read and thoroughly enjoyed it.
I liked the initial chemistry between Lucinda and Alex and then the slow burn of will they won't they. Both are fiercely private individuals so when they went to tea with Lady Carol, the story really took off.
I love how the characters were written and developed and felt they were very relatable. There was also an excellent diverse range of supporting characters.
This is the first book by Claire Huston I have read but I'm going to check out her others now.
Thank you Rachels Random Resources for my gifted copy and spot on the tour.
July 29, 2022
This has been in my pile since release day and I finally got a gap to read it and I'm so glad I did! I love the first visit we had last year to the Compton's and really enjoyed this visit too.
We meet Alex & Lucinda who meet by some fluke chance and after a sticky start build up an unlikely friendship. The first approx 30% of this story is spent getting to know both Lucinda and Alex individually and then after that the pace alters as they spend a bizarre afternoon/evening together.
A really enjoyable story, that I loved it was one of those that the more I read, the more I wanted to read. If you haven't grabbed a copy and you fancy a light hearted read that will make you chuckle, then grab a copy now!
We meet Alex & Lucinda who meet by some fluke chance and after a sticky start build up an unlikely friendship. The first approx 30% of this story is spent getting to know both Lucinda and Alex individually and then after that the pace alters as they spend a bizarre afternoon/evening together.
A really enjoyable story, that I loved it was one of those that the more I read, the more I wanted to read. If you haven't grabbed a copy and you fancy a light hearted read that will make you chuckle, then grab a copy now!
June 7, 2022
I would just like to say a big thank you to the author, who very kindly forwarded me an arc copy of her book, for my Kindle, in return for my honest review.
This book is the second book in the ‘Love In The Comptons’ series but can very easily be read as a stand alone.
The Only Exception features the grumpy-meets-sunshine trope and was a slow-burn romance and I really enjoyed it!
The two main characters, Lucinda and Alex were great, interesting characters and I loved getting to know them and what they thought of each other.
This book was very well written and I found myself reading it very quickly as I wanted to find out what happens and I couldn’t wait!
Overall, it was a heartwarming, romantic and funny, fell good story…..
This book is the second book in the ‘Love In The Comptons’ series but can very easily be read as a stand alone.
The Only Exception features the grumpy-meets-sunshine trope and was a slow-burn romance and I really enjoyed it!
The two main characters, Lucinda and Alex were great, interesting characters and I loved getting to know them and what they thought of each other.
This book was very well written and I found myself reading it very quickly as I wanted to find out what happens and I couldn’t wait!
Overall, it was a heartwarming, romantic and funny, fell good story…..
September 9, 2022
The Only Exception
By Claire Huston
Lucinda Green runs a modest successful catering business which gets lots of clientele from brilliant word of mouth. She owns a lovely house which she is currently sharing with her ex-fiance!
Even though her relationship has broken down, she doesn't feel that love is the answer to her problems. After all true love is fictional right?
But then in walks Alex Fraser a newly notorious actor that has the looks and the personality.
Could Alex be the expection to Lucindas rule that true love really doesn't exist?
🥗 Romance
🎭 Finding love
🥗 Friendship
🎭 Family
🥗 Easy read
This was a lovely, sweet easy read and if you like romance novels then this will definitely be one for you!
By Claire Huston
Lucinda Green runs a modest successful catering business which gets lots of clientele from brilliant word of mouth. She owns a lovely house which she is currently sharing with her ex-fiance!
Even though her relationship has broken down, she doesn't feel that love is the answer to her problems. After all true love is fictional right?
But then in walks Alex Fraser a newly notorious actor that has the looks and the personality.
Could Alex be the expection to Lucindas rule that true love really doesn't exist?
🥗 Romance
🎭 Finding love
🥗 Friendship
🎭 Family
🥗 Easy read
This was a lovely, sweet easy read and if you like romance novels then this will definitely be one for you!
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