Nick is the most intriguing man Nella has met in a while. He's a 9 in the looks department (no one gets a 10), he makes her laugh, and he keeps her company when she ends up in A&E. But they live hundreds of miles apart.

Then Nella loses her job. There's a perfect role on offer at a Cotswolds holiday retreat. The catch is that her boss would be Nick. And that makes Nick the one man she can't risk falling in love with.

While Nella struggles with her feelings, a Hollywood star has found a haven at the retreat. Lizzie's sworn off people - especially men - until her friendly new neighbours entice her out of her shell. Maybe she needs a flirtation - with gorgeous Nick, perhaps? Not with taciturn local Matthew, though, who definitely isn't a member of her fan club. Then an astonishing secret revealed changes everything . . .

One of the many things I adored about this book is the development of so many characters. You really did feel like you knew every one of them. The main story is about two amazing and strong women, Nella and Lizzie, but there’s Esme at the pub, Maeve the cleaner, Jed the nightclub owning millionaire, and Hugo, heir to the village Manor House. A real village feel from all living in Starbourne.

It’s a story of love, friendship, finding out people’s true colours, second chances and discovering yourself. There are plenty of twists and turns where you smile and think “I didn’t see that coming!”

I started reading this first thing and read it in a day, only stopping for lunch. (Sorry family!). Highly recommend (and I’ll be buying for my best friend for her birthday)).

“An Almost Perfect Summer” by Jill Mansell is published on 16th January 2025, and is available to pre-order now.

Thank you NetGalleyUK and Headline for my ARC.

This is the perfect uplifting, heart-warming read that January needs, a Jill Mansell book is like a cuddle. This one focuses on Nella and a stranger that she meets, Nick. She then loses her job and is offered a job by Nick, managing his Cotswolds holiday properties. This is about how their relationship develops and the people that come to stay in these properties.

I think this could be summer's equivalent of Love Actually! There are so so many various characters and interlinking storylines, some connecting in ways you would never be able to guess to start with, with everything leaving me with a great big smile on my face.

This is yet another stonkingly good read from Jill Mansell. I loved the Cotswolds setting, and getting to know so many truly lovely characters.

Even though possibly Nella and Lizzie are arguably the main characters of this book, I think it really is more of an ensemble piece. It's a lovely community, and I loved all the ways everyone connects.

There is so much more to all of our characters than first meets the eye and getting to know them over the course of the summer months that this book is set in, was a really enriching experience.

There are many secrets to be uncovered, many very surprising indeed, and I was never sure what would happen next.

This is what happens when mix so many different people together, including a famous actress, a ghost writer, a fixer / concierge, night club owners, some adorable dogs, and a whole lot more besides. Just a fabulous example of brilliant character writing and development.

Almost certainly one of my favourite books from this author (something I think I say every year with each new release - well I just love them all), this was absolutely brilliant and a joy to read.

Thank you to Headline and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.

I just loved this book.

I am a long time fan of all @jillmansell books and have been for over 20 years. They are just so brilliantly written and take you away to another world. A world that when you finish the book, it plays on your mind and lingers. You can’t quite remember if you went there once, or if it was a dream or a story… but whichever it is you want to go back.

Jill Mansell creates happy ever afters, books that make you silly grin at the screen like a looney.

I always love her books, but this one felt like a level up - if you can level up when you are already the queen 👸🏽

You don’t need to know what its about other than that its a heartwarming story, with comedy, romance, and a bit of reality thrown in for good measure. I would love to see another one set in this village!

Thanks so much to @netgalley @jillmansell and Headline for the ARC.

There is no doubt that Jill is a great storyteller. However, for me, the fact that this book followed the journey of so many characters diluted it down to such a point, that I wasn't really that invested in any of them. I wanted to spend more time with Nella and Nick but instead there were so many sub plots vying for my attention that I didn't feel like their story was done the justice it deserved. I felt like I was told they had fallen in love rather than been shown where it actually happened. Too few moments to build the depth I would prefer. I felt Lizzie trampled all over this story and made it her own and became the focus of so much of this tale.
It was still an enjoyable read, just not one that will stay with me.

This is a fabulous girly, chick lit, rom com that I loved from the first page. The characters are all larger than life, mostly nice and kind and hugely likeable (with a few rotten eggs thrown in for good measure). The storyline is set in a picture perfect Cotswold village and you can almost imagine yourself being there.

A few twists and turns keep the book interesting and there are will they/wont they vibes flying all over the place, not just the two main characters

A lovely read, great for escapism

Free courtesy of Netgalley

I have been reading Jill's books for over 30 years, starting with Solo and I have always looked for her new releases since that day. I was so excited to be able to read and review this one before it is released and I can say it hasn't disappointed at all, it is just as fabulous as the first book I ever read.

The book is set in the Cotswolds, where Nella has eventually accepted a job from Nick, a stranger she met in a farm shop and clashed with over the purchase of Orange Roses. She was hoping to not run into him again but fate had other ideas when she crashed her boss's car, a little while later. She starts working for Nick as a concierge, for his luxury cottage rentals, where she runs into some very special people.

I don't want to give too much away but the book is warm and inviting, and you love almost all of the characters, they are well written and you end up feeling that you know them personally. I would recommend this book and every other Jill Mansell book you can get your hands on. Please never stop writing as I will be gutted.

Thank you to NetGalley and Headline for this ARC.

This book takes place in a small village called Starbourne and while there are two main couples, the community setting means there are at least three more couples forming.

Nella and Lizzie end up in the same luxury cottage retreat in the picturesque Cotswolds - Bella as a concierge and Lizzie as a guest trying to relax and take time away from her Hollywood actress career. The two become firm friends, juggle some suitors and have more people from their lives turn up to visit or stay with them.

This gentle story of love, friendship and second chances teaches you not to judge people too early - there were several male characters I was weary of at the beginning (Tony and Jed) who completely turned my opinion of them around. I also like that there were a couple of heartwarming surprises in the story.

Jill Mansell is always a great read! It's a pacey, feel-good story that's clean and not too cheesy. All the stories intertwine, and there is a great set of characters. Highly recommend for a light-hearted, escapist read.

I absolutely adored this book! From the moment I stepped into the picturesque Cotswolds setting, I was hooked. The village felt so real, I could almost hear the chatter of the locals and picture the rolling hills—it was like being on holiday myself.

Nella and Nick's story had me grinning and holding my breath in equal measure. Nick is the kind of romantic lead you can’t help but fall for—handsome, funny, and kind—but, of course, their situation is deliciously complicated. The fact that Nella ends up working for him added such a great layer of tension to their relationship. I couldn’t wait to see how they’d navigate their feelings while trying to keep things professional (spoiler: it’s impossible not to root for them!).

And then there’s Lizzie, the burnt-out Hollywood star who’s hiding away in the retreat. Her storyline was just as compelling, with a beautiful mix of vulnerability and growth. Watching her interact with the locals, especially the prickly Matthew, was such a treat. Their dynamic is a slow burn that unfolds in the most satisfying way, full of surprises and emotional depth.

What I loved most about this book was the ensemble cast. From the nosy, hilarious Mrs. Catchpole to the kind-hearted villagers, everyone added something special to the story. The way all the characters’ lives intertwined—complete with secrets, surprises, and plenty of romance—kept me glued to the pages.

This is the kind of book that feels effortless to read, with writing that transports you straight into the heart of the story. It’s filled with laughter, heartfelt moments, and just the right amount of scandal to keep things interesting. If you’re looking for a feel-good escape with all the charm of a cosy village and plenty of romance, this one’s a must-read!

Read more at The Secret Book Review.

My thanks to Headline and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read ‘An Almost Perfect Summer’ written by Jill Mansell in exchange for my honest and unbiased review.

While driving to Starbourne to visit her grandad’s grave, Nella collides with a wall and the very good-looking Nick Callaghan comes to her rescue taking her to A&E. When Nella loses her job in Manchester Nick asks her to be the concierge at his Cotswolds holiday retreat which she readily agrees to but is determined not to fall in love with him despite already having strong feelings.

‘An Almost Perfect Summer’ is a lighthearted romantic novel as Nella makes new friends, finds romance, and becomes indispensable to the residents at the Cotswolds holiday retreat. The characters are so nicely portrayed that I couldn’t help but be intrigued while getting caught up in their dramas and wanting to know more about them. This novel has drawn me in from the beginning by the interesting characters, the romances, and the strength of friendship. It’s a thoroughly enjoyable novel to read but especially while on holiday when all you want to do is relax and get away from everyday life.

What a fantastic book this is. I was fully invested in the storyline and the characters from page one. Jill Mansell’s writing style is so easy to get into the story and keep you hooked. This is a real gem of a book not to be missed.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC in return for an honest review.

This book almost made me late for my plans, I just had to finish it! Such a feel good, happy go lucky book. Felt like Love Actually in summer 😍 would have loved more Nick and Nella content!

It has been a couple of years since I have dived into a Jill Mansell novel but by the time I had finished the first chapter of her latest book An Almost Perfect Summer it felt like I was back home in my happy place because her writing is so easy to get wrapped up in as she envelopes you in a whole new group of characters with various woes and whose stories all begin to merge together.

Set in the Cotswolds in a village called Starbourne where a range of high end holiday cottages are let we spend the Summer with a wide range of characters from the glam side of actors and painters to the more basic side of life to the cleaners and runners but it just goes to show no matter how much money you have or don't have in your pocket one thing remains the same we all have our problems and a heart that just wants to love and be loved!

The main storyline follows Nella as she moves to Starbourne to begin work there after an unfortunate accident and some would say a touch of fate lead to her meeting the gorgeous Nick who is the owner of the luxury cottage rentals. We also have a strong storyline that follows Lizzie who is a well known actress who has hit burn out and needs time to get her head straight whilst also working on her book and so gradually more characters are then weaved into these threads to open up more stories along side so there is always someone new to meet or something new going on. Jill Mansell has such a skill when building her characters because they are all so well developed and I never find myself muddled between who is who.

With so many characters comes so many troubles and emotions but also a lot of new beginnings and romance too which is just the kind of story I want to read in January when we all reset and recharge and have an air of positivity to start a fresh. This is a great feel good read by Jill Mansell and a great book to start the year.

This is a really great feel good romance which is packed with gear characters and a well rounded storyline to keep the interest of the reader from start to finish.

The book follows residents in a Cotswold village, some of whom are living or working in a new development of luxury homes which are rented out as holiday accommodation. As we meet them they immediately begin to sparkle with personality and I couldn’t wait to see if romance would blossom and friendships would be made or lost.

The story is about love, friendship, second chances and the importance of family and friendship; not taking anyone or anything at face value. It is a great feel good story that I thoroughly enjoyed and would not hesitate to recommend.

Thanks to Netgalley, the publisher and the author for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.

Jill Mansell’s books always feel like a warm hug, her latest offering is no exception. The setting is glorious, the characters are full of life and make you fall in love with them and the storyline keeps you hooked. Mansell’s writing style feels cosy and I love the way her endings are perfect. I very much enjoyed this latest novel, Nella and Lizzy are great main roles, and I like the side characters like Nick and Esme. Thank you so much for the arc.

If you are looking for a character led,feel better than good story set in a beautiful village where various strangers all have landed to spend time with the residents……..including extremes from a burnt out LA actress to a Mrs Catchpole a nosey belligerent life long villager…..then this is the book for you

The story has romance,laughter,tears,secrets,more romance and some really good storylines that all magically weave together and come to happy endings

The writing is effortless and within minutes I was there on holiday/living there with the various players and enjoying the life that sounded so perfect

Of course there is scandal and surprises,big surprises in store for some of those involved

This author creates a brilliant story,setting and outcome (s) and I cant think of one criticism of it

Summed up…a great time was had by all including me

Honestly, Jill Mansell never fails to hit me with the warm and fuzzy feelings while reading her books. Everything from the delectable settings to the quirky but lovable characters completely drag you into her stories desperate for everyone to get their happy endings.

One thing I have always loved about Jill's books is how, although we always have a main romance, she weaves so many other stories through. Through this is absolutely Nella and Nick's story, and boy did I love them, we meet so many other characters, are hit with some truly epic plot twists that change people's lives. She interweaves all of these characters stories so effortlessly, from the Hollywood glamour star to the grandma of 5 who works at the local pub, making sure you are invested in every single relationship whether they're romantic or not. Her romances range from slow burn friends to lovers, to the most delicious enemies to lovers with a twist, with plenty more thrown in for good measure, no one storyline getting overshadowed by another, they all get the perfect amount of page time.

As a sucker for a slow burn, Nella and Nick's romance was absolutely my favourite. Their first meeting may have ended in a hospital visit, but when Nella's current job ends there is only one place she can think to work. The only problem? Nick would be her boss, and Nella knows the perils that come with work based relationships. But living next door to each other, seeing each other nearly every day makes staying platonic that much harder. Alongside these two gems, our other main romance is that of Lizzie and Matthew, a delicious enemies to friends to lovers that had me laughing and crying in equal measure. They don't start off on the best foot, with each interaction seeming to send them more down the enemies for life route, until a secret is brought to light that changes everything and shows each of them in a completely different light.

I always love the settings Jill chooses for her books and this one is no different. Starbourne gives off those perfect picturesque village vibes, where everyone knows everyone's business, and these settings always add an extra depth and emotional aspect to the stories because, whilst we're watching our characters fall in love, were also meeting everyone they know. From the chef at the local pub who also does everyone's hair, to the maid who works at the holiday homes. Jill builds these villages through the people who live there, and she's yet to set her books in a place I don't want to be transported to.

As with most of Jill's books, you know fairly early on who will end up with who, but I love that. I love getting into a book where I know there will be no big twists, or surprises. There's something comforting in knowing how the story will end, or at least having an idea from the start, because it makes for the coziest read you can just lose yourself in. Don't get me wrong, there are absolutely a few twists, Mansell certainly keeps us on our toes, but just knowing that that wonderful HEA is waiting you at the end means it's a cozier read. If you're looking for a book to cozy up with this winter, with the most picturesque setting and a whole bunch of characters you will fall in love with, look no further.

This is such a lovely story. An easy read which pulls you in from the first page. Set in the Cotwolds, in the village of Starbourne, Nella Hughes, looking to purchase sunset-orange roses, loses out on the last bunch to Nick Callaghan. She’s returned to the village to visit her grandfather’s grave and lay his favourite flowers there. A phone call brings news that her boss, music promotor Tommy Kester has found himself in a spot of bother and taken himself abroad for a while. And Nick, who manages a luxury rental company, just happens to be looking for someone to cover the day to day running of his business – the ultimate Girl Friday with a ‘can do’ attitude. And Nella Is hired.
This opening chapter provides the foundation for the rest of the story as the reader becomes immersed in the loves, lives and challenges faced by the residents of Starbourne and those who have booked their holidays in one of Nick’s luxury properties. An Almost Perfect Summer ticks all the boxes as Jill assembles another cast of unforgettable characters whose stories will stay with you long after you reach the last page.
I would like to thank Netgalley, the author and Headline for an ARC of An Almost Perfect Summer in exchange for an honest review.

This is a thoroughly enjoyable read set in the enchanting setting of a high-end luxury holiday complex. The novel weaves together the lives of its characters as different love interests emerge and evolve. The clever storytelling gradually intertwines these separate threads, culminating in a satisfying and well-crafted conclusion. A perfect choice for readers who love a mix of romance, drama, and a touch of escapism in a stunning backdrop.

Jill Mansell doesn't just give us one love story, she gives us several, all in one delightfully readable book.
Set around some luxurious holiday homes in a picture perfect English village, the characters lives and stories become interwoven. As usual, Jill gives us interesting, relatable, and sometimes slightly flawed characters.
Once I started reading this, I just didn't want to put it down.