Book Review - Just One Look At You by Jill Mansell - #BlogTour

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Title: Just One Look At You

Author: Jill Mansell

Format reviewed: Ebook

Source: Netgalley

Publisher: Headline Review

Publication Date: 29th January 2026

Rating: 5 Stars

Venice. The perfect setting for romance, and for secrets to be shared.

'Stunning, utterly beautiful . . . Jill at her absolute best. One of the most beautiful love stories I've ever read' Jo Thomas

Fen can't believe her luck. A luxury holiday with her beloved grandmother Disa - what could be more delightful? It doesn't cross her mind that she might fall in love. Or that love can bring complications . . .

Jamie can't help it that women always fall for him, rather than for his kind-hearted friend Leon. Nor that only one of them got the looks (that would be Jamie). But how will he feel if the girl he's drawn to only has eyes for Leon?

Disa has a secret. A few weeks ago, an old letter in a file revealed a shocking truth about her late husband. She's come to Venice to find out more.

There's news on the way that will reverberate through all their lives, as Jill Mansell's joyful, heartbreaking new novel takes readers on a roller coaster ride of emotion - and makes us believe in love again.

Jill Mansell what on earth have you done to me with this latest book.  Starting out like a nice gentle story set on a Venice river cruise that sounded divine, with a big cast of characters to get to know, it deceives you into thinking this is how it will be. 

The next thing I know, my heart is being torn apart, and put together again, and torn apart, I'm on the verge of tears multiple times in the book, and there is ultimately a heartwarming and uplifting finale. 

I just know that when I feel that strong a connection to some of the characters, and believe in their story that much, that the author has done a fantastic job writing the book, which is definitely the case in this instance. 

There is a whole multitude of storylines to get involved in, some involving lost loves, old betrayals, some involving love at first sight, and ever present is Jamie, an ex pro rugby player and now general sports personality, who is so key to everything. 

I loved all of the various characters, but especially Fen, Leon and Jamie who are definitely the main characters of this book.  I was also interested in Hattie's story, and loved Disa too. These are well rounded characters, with development and big story arcs that are a delight to read. 

The sections set in Venice, spoke to my love of armchair travel and reminded me of my own brief visit to the city.  I loved the descriptions of some of the tourist attractions, and felt as though I was there alongside the characters. 

This is a truly special story from this always talented author and it was a brilliant way to kick of my 2026 reading, as it was the first book I have read in this new year.  

Just wonderful. 

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