Sunday Salon: Rumor Has It by Jill Mansell

I was intrigued when I read the blurb about RUMOR HAS IT.

Newly single Tilly Cole impulsively moves to a small town, only to find she's arrived in a hotbed of gossip, intrigue, and rampant rivalry for the most desirable man—Jack Lucas, whose reputation is beyond bad. Tilly has no intention of becoming another notch on his bedpost. But she finds the thoughtful, caring guy she comes to value as a friend doesn't seem to fit the town's playboy image. Should she listen to her friends or her heart? Is Tilly being mature and sensible—or running away from the love of her life?

After reading the book, I don’t think the blurb really does the book complete justice. Don't get me wrong, it’s a good blurb and gets your attention. However, there is so much more going on with the other characters that’s not mentioned.

There are several basic storylines happening at the same time. Author Jill Mansell has a unique way of intertwining all the storylines so they flow smoothly from one to the next and back again naturally.

Besides the fascinating story of Tilly and her attraction to the town’s Casanova, Jack; you have her best friend Erin, who owns a consignment dress shop. Erin falls for Fergus, who is estranged from Stella. Their story is funny, outrageous, sweet and touching. To have Erin’s grace would be amazing.

Next you have Tilly’s new box, Max, and his 13-year-old daughter, Lou. Max owns an interior design company and is gay. Lou is a typical teenager with moments of grownup wisdom.

Also in the mix is Max’s ex-wife, Kaye, a Hollywood actress. Kaye finds herself in a wee bit of trouble in the states, returns to Roxborough and soon has the attention of a “stalker” from New York.

All of this may sound a little confusing, but not to worry. RUMOR HAS IT is a delightful read from the opening line until the last word with no confusing bumps along the way.

If you enjoy YOU’VE GOT MAIL or SLEEPLESS IN SEATTLE, you don’t want to miss this book. It will have you laughing out loud, shaking your head in disbelief, stunned at some of the outrageous behavior, and even shedding a tear or two of joy and sorrow. This may be a chick-lit book, but I think male readers will enjoy it too. They just may not tell anyone they’ve read it.

As for the central figure, Tilly. She’s a wonderful character. She has the normal faults and concerns we all have. She does, however, find herself in some unusual circumstances from time to time.

When you need a relaxing, fun book to help you unwind and have a laugh or two, reach for RUMOR HAS IT. You won’t go wrong.

Rumor Has It by Jill Mansell, Sourcebooks Landmark, @2010, ISBN: 978-1-4022-3750-8, Paperback, 416 pages

FTC Full Disclosure - This book was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.

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HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!