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One More Time
Fate, hope and desire collide for one special couple in a way they never would have expected. An epic love story, in the tradition of Nicholas Sparks, from bestselling Australian author Mandy Magro.
One split-second choice. A spark of magic. What if your life could be completely different?
Grace Burrows knows her seventieth birthday celebration is going to be an enchanting affair. And she can't wait to immerse herself in an evening surrounded by family and her closest friends, to waltz across the dance floor as she used to and reminisce over shared memories gathered across the decades. But it's also the evening she'll have to finally reveal a secret that she knows will devastate her family - her time left with them is too short to be fair...
Scarred by his war-time experiences and losses, Charlie Wilson knows he's made a lot of mistakes. Too many. But none greater than ruining his marriage to Grace when they were young. Tonight, as they dance, Charlie is determined to tell her he's always loved her. But when old feelings and resentments are drawn to the surface, tempers fray and Charlie and Grace are left on opposite sides of the same old argument.
Fate, however, will give them one last chance to be truthful - and as a touch of magic sparks, everything changes...
PRAISE FOR MANDY MAGRO:
'A deliciously blissful romance that will have you hooked from beginning to end.' - Better Reading
One split-second choice. A spark of magic. What if your life could be completely different?
Grace Burrows knows her seventieth birthday celebration is going to be an enchanting affair. And she can't wait to immerse herself in an evening surrounded by family and her closest friends, to waltz across the dance floor as she used to and reminisce over shared memories gathered across the decades. But it's also the evening she'll have to finally reveal a secret that she knows will devastate her family - her time left with them is too short to be fair...
Scarred by his war-time experiences and losses, Charlie Wilson knows he's made a lot of mistakes. Too many. But none greater than ruining his marriage to Grace when they were young. Tonight, as they dance, Charlie is determined to tell her he's always loved her. But when old feelings and resentments are drawn to the surface, tempers fray and Charlie and Grace are left on opposite sides of the same old argument.
Fate, however, will give them one last chance to be truthful - and as a touch of magic sparks, everything changes...
PRAISE FOR MANDY MAGRO:
'A deliciously blissful romance that will have you hooked from beginning to end.' - Better Reading
- GenresRomance
352 pages, Paperback
Published June 7, 2023
35 people are currently reading
136 people want to read
About the author
Mandy Magro
39 books332 followersMandy Magro lives in Cairns, Far North Queensland, with her daughter, Chloe Rose. With pristine aqua-blue coastline in one direction, and sweeping rural landscapes in the other, she describes her home as heaven on earth. A passionate woman, and a romantic at heart, she loves writing about soul-deep love, the Australian rural way of life, and all the wonderful characters that live there.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
June 8, 2023
Grace Burrows and Charlie Wilson know each other, they both grew up in Sapphire Bay and years ago they shared a sweet first kiss.
Grace is about to celebrate her seventieth birthday, her daughter Hope has been busy planning the party and Grace has just received some bad news. Charlie is a Vietnam veteran, he’s suffers from undiagnosed PTSD and has terrible nightmares. Charlie has made mistakes in his life, he’s hurt the people he loves and others.
One More Time is a story with a sliding doors scenario, Grace and Charlie are at a cross road, by magic Charlie is given a chance to take a different path and the plot explores if two goodhearted people can find forgiveness, move forward and maybe have a second chance at love!
Charlie returns home to Sapphire Bay and he stays at his grandparents house Moonflower Acres, he’s been fighting in the Vietnam War and he plans on going back. He and Grace meet again, both enjoy to dance slowly and the chemistry sizzles between them, of course they fall in love and their future looks bright. Charlie struggles to live as a civilian, he loves Grace with his heart and soul but he can't cope with the awful war memories, he's chronically tired and he makes terrible decisions.
I received a copy of One More Time from NetGalley and Harlequin Australia in exchange for an honest review. I like it when an author tries something different, Mandy Magro takes a risk with her latest book and it works brilliantly. The narrative is about Grace and Charlie, how fate stepped in and changed the direct of their lives. A story about war, post-traumatic stress disorder, alcoholism, being a veteran and a civilian. The effect it has on their wives, children, health, decision making, struggle, adversity, never giving up, making amends, second chances and hope. Five stars from me, not your typical romance and love story and it will make you think about life, relationships, fate and destiny.
Grace is about to celebrate her seventieth birthday, her daughter Hope has been busy planning the party and Grace has just received some bad news. Charlie is a Vietnam veteran, he’s suffers from undiagnosed PTSD and has terrible nightmares. Charlie has made mistakes in his life, he’s hurt the people he loves and others.
One More Time is a story with a sliding doors scenario, Grace and Charlie are at a cross road, by magic Charlie is given a chance to take a different path and the plot explores if two goodhearted people can find forgiveness, move forward and maybe have a second chance at love!
Charlie returns home to Sapphire Bay and he stays at his grandparents house Moonflower Acres, he’s been fighting in the Vietnam War and he plans on going back. He and Grace meet again, both enjoy to dance slowly and the chemistry sizzles between them, of course they fall in love and their future looks bright. Charlie struggles to live as a civilian, he loves Grace with his heart and soul but he can't cope with the awful war memories, he's chronically tired and he makes terrible decisions.
I received a copy of One More Time from NetGalley and Harlequin Australia in exchange for an honest review. I like it when an author tries something different, Mandy Magro takes a risk with her latest book and it works brilliantly. The narrative is about Grace and Charlie, how fate stepped in and changed the direct of their lives. A story about war, post-traumatic stress disorder, alcoholism, being a veteran and a civilian. The effect it has on their wives, children, health, decision making, struggle, adversity, never giving up, making amends, second chances and hope. Five stars from me, not your typical romance and love story and it will make you think about life, relationships, fate and destiny.
June 4, 2023
One More Time is the story of Grace Burrows and Charlie Wilson and their move through life together. The story starts at Grace's 70th birthday celebration, with Charlie as a guest to his beloved's party, and their daughter, Hope, keeping guests and her parents happy. But something happened to change the direction of life...
Charlie Wilson was a Vietnam veteran who held a lot of guilt deep inside, suffered terribly from nightmares and tried to find solace inside a bottle. Charlie's treatment of his wife, Grace, was something he regretted deeply. The heartache he'd caused her was something he desperately wished he could change. Grace and Charlie had seemed like, had been, soulmates...
One More Time by Aussie author Mandy Magro is a different take on her usual romance novel, and I'm not sure it was right for me. It focuses on second chances and is done in an unrealistic, fantasy-like scenario. For fans of Ms Magro, I recommend One More Time, but unfortunately it didn't hit the right note for me.
With thanks to HarperCollins AU for my ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Charlie Wilson was a Vietnam veteran who held a lot of guilt deep inside, suffered terribly from nightmares and tried to find solace inside a bottle. Charlie's treatment of his wife, Grace, was something he regretted deeply. The heartache he'd caused her was something he desperately wished he could change. Grace and Charlie had seemed like, had been, soulmates...
One More Time by Aussie author Mandy Magro is a different take on her usual romance novel, and I'm not sure it was right for me. It focuses on second chances and is done in an unrealistic, fantasy-like scenario. For fans of Ms Magro, I recommend One More Time, but unfortunately it didn't hit the right note for me.
With thanks to HarperCollins AU for my ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
May 31, 2023
Mandy Magro has written an awesome contemporary fiction instead of her wonderful rural romances and excelled, I loved this one and it really had me feeling every emotion there is to feel. What would do if you were given another chance at changing things in your life?
Grace Burrows is just about to celebrate her seventieth birthday with her family and friends her life has not always been filled with joy but she has had a great life, she has a beautiful daughter and a couple of grandchildren, she has some news she needs to tell the family but that can wait, her time is short.
Charlie Wilson has loved Grace forever and was thrilled when she accepted his marriage proposal, but coping with the scars after returning from Vietnam put a lot of pressure on him and Grace their marriage didn’t go as planned, but tonight at the party he is determined to tell her how much he loves her and always has and always will.
Driving home together an accident will change their lives and give them a second chance at love and happiness, it will give them one more time, this story is filled with so much heartbreak but so much love as well the emotions run high throughout the story and I felt everyone one them, anger, sadness and lots of happiness, there were lots of tears from me and frustration while I was reading but for me that is the sign of a fabulous author if they can show me them all and make me feel them.
This is a story that I highly recommend, a must read that was hard for me to put down, it is heartbreaking, while heartwarming at the same time as Grace and Charlie get one more time.
My thanks to the publisher Harlequin AU for my copy to read and review.
Grace Burrows is just about to celebrate her seventieth birthday with her family and friends her life has not always been filled with joy but she has had a great life, she has a beautiful daughter and a couple of grandchildren, she has some news she needs to tell the family but that can wait, her time is short.
Charlie Wilson has loved Grace forever and was thrilled when she accepted his marriage proposal, but coping with the scars after returning from Vietnam put a lot of pressure on him and Grace their marriage didn’t go as planned, but tonight at the party he is determined to tell her how much he loves her and always has and always will.
Driving home together an accident will change their lives and give them a second chance at love and happiness, it will give them one more time, this story is filled with so much heartbreak but so much love as well the emotions run high throughout the story and I felt everyone one them, anger, sadness and lots of happiness, there were lots of tears from me and frustration while I was reading but for me that is the sign of a fabulous author if they can show me them all and make me feel them.
This is a story that I highly recommend, a must read that was hard for me to put down, it is heartbreaking, while heartwarming at the same time as Grace and Charlie get one more time.
My thanks to the publisher Harlequin AU for my copy to read and review.
July 5, 2023
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Mandy Magro has written a heart-wrenching and meaningful story about life, love and second chances.
Charlie Wilson is attending his ex-wife's 70th birthday party. His life has not been easy, he has many regrets and the 'what ifs' play heavily on his mind. Fate steps in and magically gives Charlie a second chance at life.
One More Time is not your normal love story. There are lots of I love yous and sweet endearments however Mandy Magro has thrown everything at her characters to test the bounds of their love and sometimes they break.
I love that one of the main characters is a Vietnam veteran, there aren't enough stories about these brave and underrated soldiers.
With themes of PTSD, survivors guilt and alcoholism and the effect this has on relationships. PTSD and survivors guilt not only destroys the sufferer's life but also the lives of those who love them and Magro shows this with candour and compassion. There are also strong themes of love, forgiveness and not giving up on each other.
I received my copy from the publisher
Mandy Magro has written a heart-wrenching and meaningful story about life, love and second chances.
Charlie Wilson is attending his ex-wife's 70th birthday party. His life has not been easy, he has many regrets and the 'what ifs' play heavily on his mind. Fate steps in and magically gives Charlie a second chance at life.
One More Time is not your normal love story. There are lots of I love yous and sweet endearments however Mandy Magro has thrown everything at her characters to test the bounds of their love and sometimes they break.
I love that one of the main characters is a Vietnam veteran, there aren't enough stories about these brave and underrated soldiers.
With themes of PTSD, survivors guilt and alcoholism and the effect this has on relationships. PTSD and survivors guilt not only destroys the sufferer's life but also the lives of those who love them and Magro shows this with candour and compassion. There are also strong themes of love, forgiveness and not giving up on each other.
I received my copy from the publisher
December 2, 2023
4.5★
One More Time by Aussie author Mandy Magro is not your average love story it has so much more depth and layers to it. I was very surprised by how much I enjoyed this book, but also how quickly I was fully invested in the story. I found I was attached to the characters and I was eager to know how the story would end.
This book covers a range of topics including mental health, PTSD, alcoholism, love and family. I loved this book and I can’t wait to see what this author has in store for her readers. In the meantime, I will read some of her backlist stories. Also, I must make mention to the beautiful cover. Highly recommended.
With thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for my digital copy to read and review.
One More Time by Aussie author Mandy Magro is not your average love story it has so much more depth and layers to it. I was very surprised by how much I enjoyed this book, but also how quickly I was fully invested in the story. I found I was attached to the characters and I was eager to know how the story would end.
This book covers a range of topics including mental health, PTSD, alcoholism, love and family. I loved this book and I can’t wait to see what this author has in store for her readers. In the meantime, I will read some of her backlist stories. Also, I must make mention to the beautiful cover. Highly recommended.
With thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for my digital copy to read and review.
July 6, 2023
A ‘go-to’ excellent Aussie author for me normally, but unfortunately this time it was more 3 than 4 star.
An enduring tale of family, love, friendship, obstacles and forgiveness. The characters are lovely, the story is lovely, but it does feel familiar in that, “I’ve read this before” way.
Margo is a beautiful writer and there’s nothing wrong with the novel, it just didn’t have the usual punch in the guts emotion for me.
Sweet.
An enduring tale of family, love, friendship, obstacles and forgiveness. The characters are lovely, the story is lovely, but it does feel familiar in that, “I’ve read this before” way.
Margo is a beautiful writer and there’s nothing wrong with the novel, it just didn’t have the usual punch in the guts emotion for me.
Sweet.
July 6, 2023
*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
Known for her euphoric rural romances and heartwarming country life tales, Mandy Magro has ventured into a different field of romance fiction to bring her readers an unforgettable love story. One More Time is heavenly tale of destiny, true love, second chances, choices, agony, trauma, loss, guilt, sacrifice, acceptance, resilience and patience.
Grace Burrows is the heroine of One More Time, the latest release from rural romance royalty Mandy Magro. Grace is about to celebrate a pinnacle birthday, but the occasion is tainted by the fact that Grace has an upsetting revelation to make in front of her loved ones at the party. With time ticking away, Grace knows she cannot keep her secret under wraps any longer, but she desperately wants to protect her close friends and family from pain. As Grace is sent into a state of inner turmoil, her ex-Charlie Wilson is also suffering. Charlie has some big regrets in his life and he has made some poor decisions, the most significant being the demise of his marriage to Grace. But the upcoming birthday party offers Charlie the chance to reconnect with Grace and express how much she means to him. As Charlie tries to make amends, this former couple are once again caught up in the same issues and problems that tore them apart in the first place. Can fate and a little faith bring these two souls back together again?
Just in time for my chilled school holiday mid-year break, One More Time was the book I chose to relax with over this much needed rest period. Breezy, romantic, magical, timeless and highly readable, I enjoyed surrendering myself to this new Mandy Magro release. I was impressed with Magro’s diversion into an alternative brand of romance fiction.
Before I get into the nuts and bolts of this review, I must mention the stunning cover of Mandy Magro’s latest. I loved the beautiful and magical seaside setting depicted on the front of Mandy Magro’s latest. It certainly helped me to ease into the landscape of this coastal based story. What a delightful little seaside township Magro has created in One More Time. I definitely felt at home with the locale and the community. Thank you for bringing me to this quaint little beach town Mandy! With such a warm and inviting setting, the landscape is matched by a heroine who is as welcoming as the scenery. It was easy to strike up a relationship with Grace Burrows, she was a likeable and appealing lead. Charlie was a charming man in the beginning, but as the story progresses, we learn of his dark side. Magro uses Charlie’s character to explore issues of war, homecoming, guilt, trauma, PTSD, mental health, self-control, anger, incarceration and loss. Further issues come from issues of trust, resilience, survival and alcoholism, which Magro delivers with compassion. Although Charlie’s life is sad, I appreciated the fact that Magro was able to bring us a very important story about the life of a returned soldier, who struggles to assimilate back into daily life.
One More Time is a heroic love story that spans decades with many life changes for the cast to bear. With romance, relationships, marriage, friendships, births, deaths, incarceration and personal health coming into play, this is a very involving narrative. I wasn’t sure how it was going to pan out for Magro’s feature couple, but I was happy to go with the flow with this one. One More Time is a soft hearted love story told with undying affection. I recommend this new Mandy Margo novel to all modern fiction readers.
*I wish to thank Harlequin Australia for providing me with a free copy of this book for review purposes.
Known for her euphoric rural romances and heartwarming country life tales, Mandy Magro has ventured into a different field of romance fiction to bring her readers an unforgettable love story. One More Time is heavenly tale of destiny, true love, second chances, choices, agony, trauma, loss, guilt, sacrifice, acceptance, resilience and patience.
Grace Burrows is the heroine of One More Time, the latest release from rural romance royalty Mandy Magro. Grace is about to celebrate a pinnacle birthday, but the occasion is tainted by the fact that Grace has an upsetting revelation to make in front of her loved ones at the party. With time ticking away, Grace knows she cannot keep her secret under wraps any longer, but she desperately wants to protect her close friends and family from pain. As Grace is sent into a state of inner turmoil, her ex-Charlie Wilson is also suffering. Charlie has some big regrets in his life and he has made some poor decisions, the most significant being the demise of his marriage to Grace. But the upcoming birthday party offers Charlie the chance to reconnect with Grace and express how much she means to him. As Charlie tries to make amends, this former couple are once again caught up in the same issues and problems that tore them apart in the first place. Can fate and a little faith bring these two souls back together again?
Just in time for my chilled school holiday mid-year break, One More Time was the book I chose to relax with over this much needed rest period. Breezy, romantic, magical, timeless and highly readable, I enjoyed surrendering myself to this new Mandy Magro release. I was impressed with Magro’s diversion into an alternative brand of romance fiction.
Before I get into the nuts and bolts of this review, I must mention the stunning cover of Mandy Magro’s latest. I loved the beautiful and magical seaside setting depicted on the front of Mandy Magro’s latest. It certainly helped me to ease into the landscape of this coastal based story. What a delightful little seaside township Magro has created in One More Time. I definitely felt at home with the locale and the community. Thank you for bringing me to this quaint little beach town Mandy! With such a warm and inviting setting, the landscape is matched by a heroine who is as welcoming as the scenery. It was easy to strike up a relationship with Grace Burrows, she was a likeable and appealing lead. Charlie was a charming man in the beginning, but as the story progresses, we learn of his dark side. Magro uses Charlie’s character to explore issues of war, homecoming, guilt, trauma, PTSD, mental health, self-control, anger, incarceration and loss. Further issues come from issues of trust, resilience, survival and alcoholism, which Magro delivers with compassion. Although Charlie’s life is sad, I appreciated the fact that Magro was able to bring us a very important story about the life of a returned soldier, who struggles to assimilate back into daily life.
One More Time is a heroic love story that spans decades with many life changes for the cast to bear. With romance, relationships, marriage, friendships, births, deaths, incarceration and personal health coming into play, this is a very involving narrative. I wasn’t sure how it was going to pan out for Magro’s feature couple, but I was happy to go with the flow with this one. One More Time is a soft hearted love story told with undying affection. I recommend this new Mandy Margo novel to all modern fiction readers.
*I wish to thank Harlequin Australia for providing me with a free copy of this book for review purposes.
May 14, 2023
Thank you Harlequin for sending us a copy to read and review.
The Queen of rural romance briefly hangs up her cowboy hat for a contemporary fiction with a splash of historical epic love story that spans the decades.
What if you could live a different life?
Grace Burrows is about to celebrate her 70th birthday.
It’s a time to reminisce, enjoy memories and to reveal a long time secret.
Charlie Wilson is torn between his mistakes and wartime guilt and nostalgia.
One thing he does knows is his marriage to Grace was perfect until he messed up.
As they remember and dance the night away, the old feelings begin to surface but they cannot go back into the past.
Until an enchanting encounter and destiny gives them………..One More Time.
An emotional life journey from an esteemed author who has gone from strength to strength.
Fans of Mandy’s glowing rural romance will absolutely adore her new temporary direction of a romantic saga that will secure your heart.
With a firm cemented place in the book world, Mandy has the flair to capture essence, soul and spirit of memorable romances.
I’ve made it no secret that I’m a devoted reader and with this slight detour storytelling, I’m pleased to announce that you need to grab a copy on release day, you will be very elated and enthralled.
A heartfelt and delightful novel that will warm you up during the winter season.
One More Time is unforgettable, joyous, tender and infectious.
The Queen of rural romance briefly hangs up her cowboy hat for a contemporary fiction with a splash of historical epic love story that spans the decades.
What if you could live a different life?
Grace Burrows is about to celebrate her 70th birthday.
It’s a time to reminisce, enjoy memories and to reveal a long time secret.
Charlie Wilson is torn between his mistakes and wartime guilt and nostalgia.
One thing he does knows is his marriage to Grace was perfect until he messed up.
As they remember and dance the night away, the old feelings begin to surface but they cannot go back into the past.
Until an enchanting encounter and destiny gives them………..One More Time.
An emotional life journey from an esteemed author who has gone from strength to strength.
Fans of Mandy’s glowing rural romance will absolutely adore her new temporary direction of a romantic saga that will secure your heart.
With a firm cemented place in the book world, Mandy has the flair to capture essence, soul and spirit of memorable romances.
I’ve made it no secret that I’m a devoted reader and with this slight detour storytelling, I’m pleased to announce that you need to grab a copy on release day, you will be very elated and enthralled.
A heartfelt and delightful novel that will warm you up during the winter season.
One More Time is unforgettable, joyous, tender and infectious.
April 25, 2023
Mandy Magro has outdone herself with this amazing story about love, romance and family. This book will have you hooked from the beginning to the end, it certainly did for me. Absolutely loved it.
July 25, 2023
The Queen of Australian rural romance has written something fresh with One More Time. It was my extreme pleasure to read this wholesome love story with a Sliding Doors- esq difference.
Grace Burrows is about to attend her 70th birthday, surrounded by family and friends. It should be a celebratory occasion, but she must inform her loved ones that she's been diagnosed with cancer.
Also amongst the attendees is ex-husband, Charlie Wilson. Ever since he walked out on Grace and their then two year old daughter, Hope, he's been carrying a burden of regrets. Charlie's never really gotten over losing the love of his life. After all, Charlie and Grace were always meant to be.
What measures would you take for a second chance? A mysterious fortune teller offers Charlie this once in a lifetime opportunity... Bringing him back in time to the moment where he first met Grace.
Their journey will lead them back to those moments where it all went wrong- but changing their future comes with their own risks as well. Whilst harrowing at times, the strong message of true love prevailing remains clear.
Mandy's first foray into contemporary fiction is one not to be missed. Her usual unique flair shines through with this novel and I do hope that she plans to write more in this genre.
A perfect 5 🌟
Grace Burrows is about to attend her 70th birthday, surrounded by family and friends. It should be a celebratory occasion, but she must inform her loved ones that she's been diagnosed with cancer.
Also amongst the attendees is ex-husband, Charlie Wilson. Ever since he walked out on Grace and their then two year old daughter, Hope, he's been carrying a burden of regrets. Charlie's never really gotten over losing the love of his life. After all, Charlie and Grace were always meant to be.
What measures would you take for a second chance? A mysterious fortune teller offers Charlie this once in a lifetime opportunity... Bringing him back in time to the moment where he first met Grace.
Their journey will lead them back to those moments where it all went wrong- but changing their future comes with their own risks as well. Whilst harrowing at times, the strong message of true love prevailing remains clear.
Mandy's first foray into contemporary fiction is one not to be missed. Her usual unique flair shines through with this novel and I do hope that she plans to write more in this genre.
A perfect 5 🌟
May 23, 2023
This was the first book I have read by Mandy Magro and I am a sucker for an Aussie author, this being no exception.
Here I was thinking it was typical romance with all the ups and downs that go along with it and then we experience a time shift (whaaaaaat?!).
Grace and Charlie are given a second chance at romance and they certainly had many obstacles to overcome.
This was a second-chance romance, undying love, historical love story that was a very easy read.
If you're looking for something smooshy and emotional then this is for you!
Thankyou Harlequin and Mandy Magro for this ARC in exchange for a review.
Here I was thinking it was typical romance with all the ups and downs that go along with it and then we experience a time shift (whaaaaaat?!).
Grace and Charlie are given a second chance at romance and they certainly had many obstacles to overcome.
This was a second-chance romance, undying love, historical love story that was a very easy read.
If you're looking for something smooshy and emotional then this is for you!
Thankyou Harlequin and Mandy Magro for this ARC in exchange for a review.
May 7, 2023
A story that is about love, family and trust.
Grace and Charlie seem to have it all. Love and wanting a family. However circumstances of war cause so much heartbreak between them. Grace continues to fight for Charlie and their love of one another.
Time shifts and the family becomes more important to them both. But a note that Charlie signs makes more things possible for them all.
This book is filled with many emotional moments that you feel that you are part of the storyline.
I was given this book to read as an ARC by #netgalley.
Grace and Charlie seem to have it all. Love and wanting a family. However circumstances of war cause so much heartbreak between them. Grace continues to fight for Charlie and their love of one another.
Time shifts and the family becomes more important to them both. But a note that Charlie signs makes more things possible for them all.
This book is filled with many emotional moments that you feel that you are part of the storyline.
I was given this book to read as an ARC by #netgalley.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 10, 2023
One More Time is an incredibly powerful novel that gripped me and held my attention from start to finish. It is a story about a couple named Charlie and Grace and how their eternal love is tested to the limits. Some of the topics covered are terminal illness, gut-wrenching regrets, alcoholism and PTSD: the after-effects and horrors of war and survivor’s guilt. Also, we see the negative impact from loss of vital family members. But it is not all doom and despair as the warming light of renewal, forgiveness and second chances glistens across these pages. Yes, it is a roller coaster experience. But this strong and persistent maddening emotional ride felt more to me like diving into the depths of the ocean and peering into the heart of darkness. And then once learning all that is possible, letting go to rise buoyantly to the surface. To experience an exhilarating release of joy when everything falls into place. Thanks to Charlie’s new direction, decision and devotion to the woman he loves more than life itself, things begin to turn around.
This novel takes a magical side step in time into the ‘what if.’ In both realms there is plenty of heartbreak and on the edge of your seat drama but the value of changed actions comes sailing through, providing an ending that oozes with the healing power of love. Great challenges befall this couple as they move from the heights of a celebration dance to moments of despair. But just before that, we learn that Grace harbours a secret, one that could affect the people that surround her. It is her 70th birthday, though, and she does not want to spoil the festivities and keeps quiet. As for Charlie: he has made mistakes and decisions that have caused him grief and injured the love of his life. He has loved Grace always and wants to tell her on this special night but a drastic turn of events alters everything. Hanging by a thread, Charlie is faced with a choice and seeks out advice. This choice takes him on a journey that will shake him to the core, sift out the nasties he battles in his soul—and maybe give him another chance. His encounter with a spiritualist sets him on an unexpected path.
One More Time is a mysterious and mesmerising novel filled with intense moments and well- researched traumas. Since it is written extremely well, it was easy to be drawn into the complex lives of Charlie and Grace. In fact, I found my heart pumping faster many times!
This was my first experience with Mandy’s writing and I understand this novel is a side step from her usual rural romance writing, but I hope she writes more of these kinds of stories as I feel she has done an amazing job. Highly recommend. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to HarperCollins Au (HQ) and Netgalley for my review copy.
This novel takes a magical side step in time into the ‘what if.’ In both realms there is plenty of heartbreak and on the edge of your seat drama but the value of changed actions comes sailing through, providing an ending that oozes with the healing power of love. Great challenges befall this couple as they move from the heights of a celebration dance to moments of despair. But just before that, we learn that Grace harbours a secret, one that could affect the people that surround her. It is her 70th birthday, though, and she does not want to spoil the festivities and keeps quiet. As for Charlie: he has made mistakes and decisions that have caused him grief and injured the love of his life. He has loved Grace always and wants to tell her on this special night but a drastic turn of events alters everything. Hanging by a thread, Charlie is faced with a choice and seeks out advice. This choice takes him on a journey that will shake him to the core, sift out the nasties he battles in his soul—and maybe give him another chance. His encounter with a spiritualist sets him on an unexpected path.
One More Time is a mysterious and mesmerising novel filled with intense moments and well- researched traumas. Since it is written extremely well, it was easy to be drawn into the complex lives of Charlie and Grace. In fact, I found my heart pumping faster many times!
This was my first experience with Mandy’s writing and I understand this novel is a side step from her usual rural romance writing, but I hope she writes more of these kinds of stories as I feel she has done an amazing job. Highly recommend. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to HarperCollins Au (HQ) and Netgalley for my review copy.
June 15, 2023
One split-second choice. A spark of magic. What if your life could be completely different?
Grace Burrows knows her seventieth birthday celebration is going to be an enchanting affair. And she can't wait to immerse herself in an evening surrounded by family and her closest friends, to waltz across the dance floor as she used to and reminisce over shared memories gathered across the decades. But it's also the evening she'll have to finally reveal a secret that she knows will devastate her family - her time left with them is too short to be fair...
Scarred by his war-time experiences and losses, Charlie Wilson knows he's made a lot of mistakes. Too many. But none greater than ruining his marriage to Grace when they were young. Tonight, as they dance, Charlie is determined to tell her he's always loved her. But when old feelings and resentments are drawn to the surface, tempers fray and Charlie and Grace are left on opposite sides of the same old argument.
Fate, however, will give them one last chance to be truthful - and as a touch of magic sparks, everything changes...
What a totally magical story - I just kept reading and reading! I did not want it to end. A very touching story, through good times and bad times, through trials and tribulations, the ups and downs of life! The common thread throughout this, between the good times and the bad times, was Grace and Charlie’s love for each other. Mandy has been not afraid to deal with issue of PTSD that affected many of our returning soldiers from Vietnam. It was an issue that was swept under the rug by the authorities and our soldiers were left to deal with it on their own in some very unhealthy ways - alcoholism, violence, isolation and the list goes on! This is would have to be my favourite Mandy Magro book - a page turner from start to finish!
Highly recommended 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Grace Burrows knows her seventieth birthday celebration is going to be an enchanting affair. And she can't wait to immerse herself in an evening surrounded by family and her closest friends, to waltz across the dance floor as she used to and reminisce over shared memories gathered across the decades. But it's also the evening she'll have to finally reveal a secret that she knows will devastate her family - her time left with them is too short to be fair...
Scarred by his war-time experiences and losses, Charlie Wilson knows he's made a lot of mistakes. Too many. But none greater than ruining his marriage to Grace when they were young. Tonight, as they dance, Charlie is determined to tell her he's always loved her. But when old feelings and resentments are drawn to the surface, tempers fray and Charlie and Grace are left on opposite sides of the same old argument.
Fate, however, will give them one last chance to be truthful - and as a touch of magic sparks, everything changes...
What a totally magical story - I just kept reading and reading! I did not want it to end. A very touching story, through good times and bad times, through trials and tribulations, the ups and downs of life! The common thread throughout this, between the good times and the bad times, was Grace and Charlie’s love for each other. Mandy has been not afraid to deal with issue of PTSD that affected many of our returning soldiers from Vietnam. It was an issue that was swept under the rug by the authorities and our soldiers were left to deal with it on their own in some very unhealthy ways - alcoholism, violence, isolation and the list goes on! This is would have to be my favourite Mandy Magro book - a page turner from start to finish!
Highly recommended 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
June 5, 2023
One More Time by Mandy Magro is a delightful read. Heartwarming with laughter but not without tears! A lovely story that touches your heart and reminds you that every moment in life is important. I loved the magical aspect that allowed Charlie Wilson change the direction of his life with the love of his life Grace. While second time round all is not smooth sailing nor without major difficulties it was a wonderful change of direction.
Thank you to Mandy Magro for a read that did indeed make me feel warm and fuzzy, made me laugh and also to cry but most importantly for a wonderful ending that made the journey worthwhile.
If you enjoy contemporary romance then you will love reading One More Time.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from Harlequin Australia via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
#OneMoreTime #NetGalley
Thank you to Mandy Magro for a read that did indeed make me feel warm and fuzzy, made me laugh and also to cry but most importantly for a wonderful ending that made the journey worthwhile.
If you enjoy contemporary romance then you will love reading One More Time.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from Harlequin Australia via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
#OneMoreTime #NetGalley
June 7, 2023
One More Time is Mandy Magro’s step away from her wonderful rural romances, the result is absolutely brilliant!
This wonderful story delivers on so many levels, the emotional roller coaster that is life is described beautifully!
I loved the main characters Charlie and Grace, their love story is told with the perfect touch of emotion, truth and connection.
The storyline didn’t waver from it’s commitment to the relatable realities of life, illness, survival and horror. There’s a touch of magic in the air, the slow build to forgiveness and second chances is truly heartwarming!
The characters and storyline clearly show the sliding door moments in life and the impact of our choices.
This book is written with compassion, showing Grace as the strong woman she is, the backbone of the family. Charlie is slower to reveal his true self, he battles his demons on an intense path of discovery!
You must experience the magic of this well written powerful book!
Huge congratulations and thanks to the publisher, NetGalley and the fabulous Mandy Magro for the opportunity to read this book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This wonderful story delivers on so many levels, the emotional roller coaster that is life is described beautifully!
I loved the main characters Charlie and Grace, their love story is told with the perfect touch of emotion, truth and connection.
The storyline didn’t waver from it’s commitment to the relatable realities of life, illness, survival and horror. There’s a touch of magic in the air, the slow build to forgiveness and second chances is truly heartwarming!
The characters and storyline clearly show the sliding door moments in life and the impact of our choices.
This book is written with compassion, showing Grace as the strong woman she is, the backbone of the family. Charlie is slower to reveal his true self, he battles his demons on an intense path of discovery!
You must experience the magic of this well written powerful book!
Huge congratulations and thanks to the publisher, NetGalley and the fabulous Mandy Magro for the opportunity to read this book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 1, 2023
A magical story that has left my heart singing! With this story I have to say I was shocked when it went in a completely different direction then what I was anticipating but I absolutely loved it. This one is a little different to Mandy Magro previous books and I have to say she really nailed it! I felt so many emotions and I laughed and smiled and cried and screamed while reading. It made me reflect on different choices I could have made and how my life would have been different had I made those choices. It's also a stark reminder not to waste a single second that we have on this earth. It tackles some difficult issues like PTSD and alcoholism with empathy, kindness and honesty. A beautiful uplifting romance that I highly recommend!
August 1, 2023
This is a change from Mandy Magro's normal writing. Charlie and Grace are in their 70s and are the love of each other's lives but fate saw them spend most of their lives being friends after Charlie left Grace and their daughter Hope to search for a MIA soldier in Vietnam. One fateful car accident sees Grace end up in the hospital and Charlie make a deal with a fortune teller to sacrifice his life for hers. He ends up waking from a vivid dream back in the 70s before his relationship with Grace. Their new story ends up being very different from the last and it really is a wild ride of emotions. I wasn't originalally gripped by this story but eventually it sucked me in as I wanted to see where they ended up. It definitely brought me to tears a number of times as I saw these characters try to fight through the hand they were dealt to still love each other.
June 4, 2023
I had the pleasure of reading this book thanks to HQ for sending an early copy. It was such a delight, slow paced and captivating story line.
You can't help but fall in love with love.
It's not my usual genre choice, but I love Aussie authors and the magic they create!
You can't help but fall in love with love.
It's not my usual genre choice, but I love Aussie authors and the magic they create!
June 24, 2023
Initially the book was a bit confusing and jumpy but once i figured out the twist that changed the story to started to make more sense. It can be quite confronting and sad in parts bit over all i enjoyed where it ended up
August 12, 2023
This book goes through the life and times of Charlie Wilson and Grace Burrows who meet when they are young and fall in love. They have many situations thrown at them that most relationships would not survive. For a time they were separated, but they had each other in their thoughts and tried to better themselves as separate people.
A saga of trials and tribulations, but ultimately a love story for the ages.
A saga of trials and tribulations, but ultimately a love story for the ages.
June 13, 2023
Wow loved this just wow
July 7, 2023
Fabulous listen!
5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
July 16, 2023
3.5⭐️
April 3, 2024
A little too sugary sweet for me really but as romances go it had the classic girl meets boy, boy loses girl and then gets a second chance plot with enough meat to not make me abandon it.
June 3, 2023
Thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Australia for the chance to read and review this book.
I have read many of Mandy Magro's previous rural romance stories and enjoyed them all. Unfortunately this book did not hit the mark for me. It felt too over the top lovey dovey and dramatic. It just felt like there was too much going on.
I found myself pushing through in the hope I would enjoy it more but I just didn't. I'm sure I'll be in the minority as I usually love Mandy's books.
I have read many of Mandy Magro's previous rural romance stories and enjoyed them all. Unfortunately this book did not hit the mark for me. It felt too over the top lovey dovey and dramatic. It just felt like there was too much going on.
I found myself pushing through in the hope I would enjoy it more but I just didn't. I'm sure I'll be in the minority as I usually love Mandy's books.
June 12, 2023
A true love story with a different genre. Many up and downs through life but love conquered all. Laughter and tears (keep tissues near by) Enjoyed it very much.
May 13, 2025
Great book, I listened to the audio book and really enjoyed it 😀
November 16, 2023
I really loved this book, such a beautiful love story. I instantly fell in love with the characters and storyline and at times could relate to one character in particular. Highly recommend.
April 30, 2025
Omg. I loved this book. the beautiful love story of a lovely couple Charlie and Grace and their hard and challenging at times life together. This is a heartwarming story of a love that started so young in life but were always destined to be together with whatever life through at them.
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