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Lessons in Love
Falling in love is never easy…
Eleanor Manning is finally leaving behind her glittering but empty life in the city (and her soon-to-be-ex-husband) to return to the comfort of her childhood home in Apollo Bay.
She’s landed a lovely new job in her old primary school library and a flatshare with her bubbly best friend, Penny. So yes, she’s well and truly learnt her lesson when it comes to love…
But then she meets gorgeous teacher Marcus Blair and Eleanor’s self-imposed rules fly out of the window! Surely she can resist him long enough to keep this fling no strings attached?
Perfect for fans of Carole Mathews, Mhairi McFarlane and Carrie Hope Fletcher.
Eleanor Manning is finally leaving behind her glittering but empty life in the city (and her soon-to-be-ex-husband) to return to the comfort of her childhood home in Apollo Bay.
She’s landed a lovely new job in her old primary school library and a flatshare with her bubbly best friend, Penny. So yes, she’s well and truly learnt her lesson when it comes to love…
But then she meets gorgeous teacher Marcus Blair and Eleanor’s self-imposed rules fly out of the window! Surely she can resist him long enough to keep this fling no strings attached?
Perfect for fans of Carole Mathews, Mhairi McFarlane and Carrie Hope Fletcher.
384 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 11, 2019
8 people are currently reading
166 people want to read
About the author
Belinda Missen
12 books211 followersAn avid reader and daydreamer, Belinda Missen can often be found behind the wheel of her car, buzzing about while devouring audiobooks. Her published works include A Recipe for Disaster, and the bestselling One Week ’Til Christmas.
As well as writing books, Belinda recently co-authored the screenplay adaptation of Escape from the Commodore 64 with David Hearne. It has since received official selection at the Los Angeles International Screenplay Awards.
Residing in Australia, Belinda is currently working on her next novel.
As well as writing books, Belinda recently co-authored the screenplay adaptation of Escape from the Commodore 64 with David Hearne. It has since received official selection at the Los Angeles International Screenplay Awards.
Residing in Australia, Belinda is currently working on her next novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
June 22, 2019
The first question that crept into my mind after picking up this book: why do a rebound love tale need 384 pages? The book answered itself after a few pages. When you have just lost your husband to your best friend for no fault of yours, it is hard to fall in love again and that also with someone who shares many qualities with your soon to be ex-husband. There is no guarantee about the way some people change, and that is a risk hard to take (though most of us do).
This is my third Belinda Missen work, so I am kind of familiar with her style. There is the occasional tinge of humour, slow development of the story and lucid writing that takes you along with the pages. And this is no different. Being set in a school background, the story gave me a much-needed boost to concentrate on the work after a long lazy vacation. The enthusiasm and competitiveness of Marcus and Ellie are infectious. Much to my delight, the author has also included some references to our main characters from 'A Recipe for Disaster'. We don't really meet them (sigh!) but I am so glad to hear that Lucy and Oliver are doing extremely well.
An emotional and inspiring read that takes you back to your school days and if you are a teacher like me, then this is a definite jump in.
This is my third Belinda Missen work, so I am kind of familiar with her style. There is the occasional tinge of humour, slow development of the story and lucid writing that takes you along with the pages. And this is no different. Being set in a school background, the story gave me a much-needed boost to concentrate on the work after a long lazy vacation. The enthusiasm and competitiveness of Marcus and Ellie are infectious. Much to my delight, the author has also included some references to our main characters from 'A Recipe for Disaster'. We don't really meet them (sigh!) but I am so glad to hear that Lucy and Oliver are doing extremely well.
An emotional and inspiring read that takes you back to your school days and if you are a teacher like me, then this is a definite jump in.
September 21, 2019
I enjoyed reading this and found the characters incredible likeable.
It is a gently, quick, easy and warm read .
I enjoyed the connection and chemistry between Marcus and Eleanor, and enjoyed the humour.
All in all a pleasant book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
It is a gently, quick, easy and warm read .
I enjoyed the connection and chemistry between Marcus and Eleanor, and enjoyed the humour.
All in all a pleasant book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 13, 2019
Belinda Missen is fast becoming one of my favourite authors. She has the unique ability to write descriptive and fast paced dialogue that keeps the story moving forward, as well as being laugh-out-loud funny, along with more heart-warming moments. Lessons in Love was a rollicking ride and I adored the setting of Apollo Bay. Her characters are always three dimensional, and you can't help fall in love with them all and wish they were your friends too. Hurry up with the next one, Belinda!
June 13, 2019
Lessons In Love by Belinda Missen is the most charming and amusing contemporary tale about second chances and love. I absolutely adored it.
Belinda Missen has created a wonderful set of characters that are likable and realistic. They are not perfect but have character flaws that make them human and easy to empathise with. The characters bounce their dialogue off each other in most amusing verbal volleys.
There is an air of lightness and love over the whole novel. It is a love that encompasses, that cares and that is delightful to watch with its tentative steps.
Much of the novel is set inside a primary school. For me, it was reminiscent of my time at school as a child and also as an adult working in a school. The novel is about bringing out the best in people. We were created to be the best version of ourselves.
Life can be hard. Broken marriages leave broken people behind as confidences are knocked. People need to rediscover just who they are after years of having personalities squashed.
A wonderful community atmosphere pervades the novel. Small town living where people care is contrasted with the anonymity of the big city.
I adored Lessons In Love. It was a really fun read that warmed my heart and left me smiling.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
Belinda Missen has created a wonderful set of characters that are likable and realistic. They are not perfect but have character flaws that make them human and easy to empathise with. The characters bounce their dialogue off each other in most amusing verbal volleys.
There is an air of lightness and love over the whole novel. It is a love that encompasses, that cares and that is delightful to watch with its tentative steps.
Much of the novel is set inside a primary school. For me, it was reminiscent of my time at school as a child and also as an adult working in a school. The novel is about bringing out the best in people. We were created to be the best version of ourselves.
Life can be hard. Broken marriages leave broken people behind as confidences are knocked. People need to rediscover just who they are after years of having personalities squashed.
A wonderful community atmosphere pervades the novel. Small town living where people care is contrasted with the anonymity of the big city.
I adored Lessons In Love. It was a really fun read that warmed my heart and left me smiling.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
June 10, 2019
Three and a half stars.
Eleanor Manning was married to a successful businessman, Dean, and had an enviable life of luxury in Melbourne until she discovers that her husband was having an affair with her best friend and another 'friend' was effectively aiding and abetting them. She returns to her home town to stay with her cousin Penny and take up the position as librarian in her old school.
On day one Eleanor is introduced to the impossibly handsome Marcus Blair, a fellow teacher, who epitomises everything she hated about her ex: sharp suits; handsome; charming; and a magnet for every female between the ages of five and ninety-five.
After a slow start I really enjoyed this romance as Ellie and Marcus spark off each other while organising the year book and the end of year awards ceremony. This was perfect holiday romance territory. My only quibble(s) were that sometimes I didn't quite understand what had gone on in a conversation which may or may not be related to the fact that I didn't understand some of the Australian cultural references.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Eleanor Manning was married to a successful businessman, Dean, and had an enviable life of luxury in Melbourne until she discovers that her husband was having an affair with her best friend and another 'friend' was effectively aiding and abetting them. She returns to her home town to stay with her cousin Penny and take up the position as librarian in her old school.
On day one Eleanor is introduced to the impossibly handsome Marcus Blair, a fellow teacher, who epitomises everything she hated about her ex: sharp suits; handsome; charming; and a magnet for every female between the ages of five and ninety-five.
After a slow start I really enjoyed this romance as Ellie and Marcus spark off each other while organising the year book and the end of year awards ceremony. This was perfect holiday romance territory. My only quibble(s) were that sometimes I didn't quite understand what had gone on in a conversation which may or may not be related to the fact that I didn't understand some of the Australian cultural references.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
August 10, 2019
In her latest book, Belinda Missen brings her now trademark blend of flirty fun and side-splitting humour back to a new tale about what happens when love goes wrong, what happens when love goes right, and what we can enjoy while we're going along for the ride.
As usual, Missen drills deep into the local flavour of her book, revelling in the small-town feel of the piece and savouring the setpiece that it provides. In places, this book reads almost like a travel brochure - you want to visit this town; you want to LIVE there; and here, for a little while, you can - alongside these incredibly relatable characters that draw you into their world and show you around it with an addictive appeal.
And did I mention the humour? This book is hilarious, from its opening paragraph to its closing chapters. I was giggling so hard that I sometimes couldn't read the words on my screen because my hands were shaking too much. But in equal measure, your heart will throb for the protagonist, Ellie, as she careens out of a disastrous relationship and is faced with a new tumult of emotions when she returns to her childhood home, to what should have been an uncomplicated time to collect herself and start anew.
If you're a fan of Missen's writing then this novel goes beyond expectations; if you're not already a fan, then this will MAKE you one!
As usual, Missen drills deep into the local flavour of her book, revelling in the small-town feel of the piece and savouring the setpiece that it provides. In places, this book reads almost like a travel brochure - you want to visit this town; you want to LIVE there; and here, for a little while, you can - alongside these incredibly relatable characters that draw you into their world and show you around it with an addictive appeal.
And did I mention the humour? This book is hilarious, from its opening paragraph to its closing chapters. I was giggling so hard that I sometimes couldn't read the words on my screen because my hands were shaking too much. But in equal measure, your heart will throb for the protagonist, Ellie, as she careens out of a disastrous relationship and is faced with a new tumult of emotions when she returns to her childhood home, to what should have been an uncomplicated time to collect herself and start anew.
If you're a fan of Missen's writing then this novel goes beyond expectations; if you're not already a fan, then this will MAKE you one!
June 13, 2019
It’s a tale of Eleanor who after the breakdown of her marriage decide to return to her home town. She ends up living with her cousin Penny.
She gets a job at her ,oval library and one her very first day there she meets the very handsome Marcus- But for her everything is still raw and she is not ready for any sort of relationship.
The more she bumps into Marcus the more she seems to warm to him.
But Eleanor is still unsure and she does give him mixed messages from time to time.
There is so much more to this
I have to admit it is a bit of a slow burner and it does take a while to get into it but it is worth persevering with it.
Good writing and well established characters.
She gets a job at her ,oval library and one her very first day there she meets the very handsome Marcus- But for her everything is still raw and she is not ready for any sort of relationship.
The more she bumps into Marcus the more she seems to warm to him.
But Eleanor is still unsure and she does give him mixed messages from time to time.
There is so much more to this
I have to admit it is a bit of a slow burner and it does take a while to get into it but it is worth persevering with it.
Good writing and well established characters.
June 11, 2019
Now, if the blurb wasn't enough to get you ordering this book, then let me tell you why you should. First of all, from the very first page I was laughing and giggling as I read. Belinda is so funny and her characters come to life, jumping off the page and straight into your life.
Secondly, umm...a school library?! Who wouldn't love that as a setting!
And then, thirdly, Marcus is a fantastically swoon-worthy hero.
Belinda is brilliant with dialogue and it was always sharp, funny and snappy. And as someone who's never been to Australia, knowing it was set there, combined with the story itself made me want to book my ticket and head off straight away!
This is a perfect fun, flirty beach read and one I know you'll love.
Secondly, umm...a school library?! Who wouldn't love that as a setting!
And then, thirdly, Marcus is a fantastically swoon-worthy hero.
Belinda is brilliant with dialogue and it was always sharp, funny and snappy. And as someone who's never been to Australia, knowing it was set there, combined with the story itself made me want to book my ticket and head off straight away!
This is a perfect fun, flirty beach read and one I know you'll love.
May 11, 2019
This is a tale of finding your way when love has kicked you in the head. Beautifully drawn characters, who are endearing, and flawed and believable. A not-so-simple story of boy meets girl - heartfelt and laugh-out-loud hilarious. Belinda Missen is a wonderful writer.
June 10, 2019
When we meet Ellie, she's on her way out of a bad place, looking to rediscover her true self after keeping it hidden for a very long time. It's a delight watching her blossom into herself through this book, and all the feels watching her struggle with letting someone close again, and finding out how to be happy. And Marcus really is unfairly attractive, especially in a suit.
June 6, 2019
OOOOOOH- Marcus! Eleanor really has had a rough time but she's moving on to happy now that she's left her rotten husband and moved home to Apollo Bay. She's got her BFF Penny, a great apartment, and a job she always wanted in the local school library. Then Marcus. He's hot, yes, but he's also nice. These two do the classic dance back and forth but Missen has done a really nice job not only with their dialogue but also with their personalities. Thanks to netgalley for the ARC. You're going to root for Eleanor (and Penny too!). Perfect beach or garden read.
May 9, 2019
Leaving behind her cheating husband, her friends, most of her possessions, her job, and the high life she had been living in Melbourne, we follow Eleanor Manning's journey back home to the beautiful Apollo Bay.
Moving in with her cousin, Eleanor wants to have a fresh start. She's got her dream job as the Librarian at her old primary school, something she dreamt about doing when she was a student there, and is hoping to find herself again. All appears to be going well, until Marcus Blair walks in.
A fellow teacher at the school, Marcus is professionally dressed in a suit and tie, handsome as all hell, very sure of himself, and the female staff are practically frothing at the mouth from the pure sight of him. Despite knowing nothing at all about him, he just reminds Eleanor of her cheating ex-husband, and that's someone she does not want to have anything to do with.
We watch them clash, and banter, using witty conversation and insults; both unable to step back and take a breath. A social outing to the pub with the school staff at the end of the week and next thing, it's a one night stand - or is it the beginning of something much more?
All the emotions are there - hurt, jealousy, anger, relief, joy, love. Throw in a complicated and complex relationship with a mother who abandoned Eleanor as a baby, and Lessons in Love has it all. The push and pull between the two main characters works well and I loved the connection between this story and Belinda's previous work - namely A Recipe For Disaster.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, as I have with all of Belinda's books so far. Being able to picture the story as I read along is something that is very important to me as a reader, without it I struggle to finish, but this story delivered in full.
So many fabulous lines in this book, far too many to list, but 'a stick jammed so far up my own arse I could have beaten the Paddle Pop Lion at his own game' was one I literally giggle-snorted at while reading along, and is the one that stands out when I look back. It wasn't often that I didn't have a smile on my face reading this, with plenty of laugh out loud moments and fun characters.
I can definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves a fun mix of romance, friendships, comedy, and complicated family relationships. Definitely a book for those who have loved her previous work.
* I was asked if I would like to read and review this book prior to it's official release. It was purely my choice to do so, and as a fan of her work, I couldn't possibly say no to the opportunity. *
Moving in with her cousin, Eleanor wants to have a fresh start. She's got her dream job as the Librarian at her old primary school, something she dreamt about doing when she was a student there, and is hoping to find herself again. All appears to be going well, until Marcus Blair walks in.
A fellow teacher at the school, Marcus is professionally dressed in a suit and tie, handsome as all hell, very sure of himself, and the female staff are practically frothing at the mouth from the pure sight of him. Despite knowing nothing at all about him, he just reminds Eleanor of her cheating ex-husband, and that's someone she does not want to have anything to do with.
We watch them clash, and banter, using witty conversation and insults; both unable to step back and take a breath. A social outing to the pub with the school staff at the end of the week and next thing, it's a one night stand - or is it the beginning of something much more?
All the emotions are there - hurt, jealousy, anger, relief, joy, love. Throw in a complicated and complex relationship with a mother who abandoned Eleanor as a baby, and Lessons in Love has it all. The push and pull between the two main characters works well and I loved the connection between this story and Belinda's previous work - namely A Recipe For Disaster.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, as I have with all of Belinda's books so far. Being able to picture the story as I read along is something that is very important to me as a reader, without it I struggle to finish, but this story delivered in full.
So many fabulous lines in this book, far too many to list, but 'a stick jammed so far up my own arse I could have beaten the Paddle Pop Lion at his own game' was one I literally giggle-snorted at while reading along, and is the one that stands out when I look back. It wasn't often that I didn't have a smile on my face reading this, with plenty of laugh out loud moments and fun characters.
I can definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves a fun mix of romance, friendships, comedy, and complicated family relationships. Definitely a book for those who have loved her previous work.
* I was asked if I would like to read and review this book prior to it's official release. It was purely my choice to do so, and as a fan of her work, I couldn't possibly say no to the opportunity. *
August 23, 2019
Thank you to NetGalley and HQ Digital for a free e-arc for review.
The synopsis for Lessons in Love sounded right up my alley, so I was surprised when it was a bit of a slow start.
This, unfortunately, was a reading experience in which I enjoyed the first half of the book more so than the second. Eleanor is working past a rough divorce, catching up with her cousin Penny, and starting a new job at the school she once attended. There's a handsome, kind, hard-working teacher introduced as a potential love interest, and several other characters to fill out the scenes. Think romcom with all the fixings.
It was easier for me to like Eleanor in the beginning, when she was trying to get back to herself, than in the end. She was cruel in speaking about another woman to her love interest - you can feel territorial about the guy you have a crush on without cutting down someone else. She was mean to her cousin who was just trying to help, interpreting the cousin's remarks as something they weren't. And she took a simple mistake to be a serious infraction - this one in particular blew me away, and seemed entirely unrealistic (i.e. that other people would humor her and treat it like something that needed to be fixed, not just a little oversight!).
I get it. Some people are like this, and I think as readers, we're supposed to come around to Eleanor regardless. But it just didn't really work for me. It's hard for me to really enjoy a romance when I don't feel, at minimum, a certain kinship with the lead.
I'll refrain from quoting, as I read an e-arc, but the suggestion that life isn't worth living if you're a partner-free, childfree woman? With remarks like that, it wasn't surprising that this main character just wasn't for me.
I liked the other themes presented here, and it's always nice to read a book with a happy ending. This one wasn't for me, but it might be for you!
The synopsis for Lessons in Love sounded right up my alley, so I was surprised when it was a bit of a slow start.
This, unfortunately, was a reading experience in which I enjoyed the first half of the book more so than the second. Eleanor is working past a rough divorce, catching up with her cousin Penny, and starting a new job at the school she once attended. There's a handsome, kind, hard-working teacher introduced as a potential love interest, and several other characters to fill out the scenes. Think romcom with all the fixings.
It was easier for me to like Eleanor in the beginning, when she was trying to get back to herself, than in the end. She was cruel in speaking about another woman to her love interest - you can feel territorial about the guy you have a crush on without cutting down someone else. She was mean to her cousin who was just trying to help, interpreting the cousin's remarks as something they weren't. And she took a simple mistake to be a serious infraction - this one in particular blew me away, and seemed entirely unrealistic (i.e. that other people would humor her and treat it like something that needed to be fixed, not just a little oversight!).
I get it. Some people are like this, and I think as readers, we're supposed to come around to Eleanor regardless. But it just didn't really work for me. It's hard for me to really enjoy a romance when I don't feel, at minimum, a certain kinship with the lead.
I'll refrain from quoting, as I read an e-arc, but the suggestion that life isn't worth living if you're a partner-free, childfree woman? With remarks like that, it wasn't surprising that this main character just wasn't for me.
I liked the other themes presented here, and it's always nice to read a book with a happy ending. This one wasn't for me, but it might be for you!
July 22, 2019
A really enjoyable story, with a host of likeable characters. Perfect holiday read
July 8, 2019
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! A lighthearted read with plenty of very funny moments and an ultimately very satisfying ending.
The book follows Eleanor as she returns to her childhood home (and school) following the dissolution of her marriage. We follow her into her first day at school, working in the library and running into all sorts of wonderfully described teachers, many of whom resonate with my memories of my school teachers with all their quirks and dodgy dress sense and the very occasional dishy chap!
I loved the fact that despite being in positions of responsibility the teachers remained completely human (turning up to work hungover, messing around and generally behaving much like the kids in their charge on many occasions) and every character adds to the story in their own way, which can be rare in this genre where often people appear almost as chapter padding.
I was rooting for Eleanor from the offset, for success in her job, her house share, her new start at life and of course her romantic liaisons.
Buy it, pack it and enjoy it on a beach with a rum based cocktail!
The book follows Eleanor as she returns to her childhood home (and school) following the dissolution of her marriage. We follow her into her first day at school, working in the library and running into all sorts of wonderfully described teachers, many of whom resonate with my memories of my school teachers with all their quirks and dodgy dress sense and the very occasional dishy chap!
I loved the fact that despite being in positions of responsibility the teachers remained completely human (turning up to work hungover, messing around and generally behaving much like the kids in their charge on many occasions) and every character adds to the story in their own way, which can be rare in this genre where often people appear almost as chapter padding.
I was rooting for Eleanor from the offset, for success in her job, her house share, her new start at life and of course her romantic liaisons.
Buy it, pack it and enjoy it on a beach with a rum based cocktail!
June 11, 2019
Lessons in love follows Ellie as she moves back to her hometown after finding her husband cheating on her with her best friend! Eek! Ellie returns home and gets a job at her primary school as a librarian. This is the job she dreamt of having as a child and is really excited and looking forward to getting stuck in.Ellie is moving in with her cousin and best friend Penny who is hilarious and you can't help but love her. All is going smoothly until she meeta Marcus Blair. He is a fellow teacher and all of the staff and students seem to love him but Ellie can't see why at first. They bump heads and clash a few times. Although Ellie doesn't know him he reminds her of her ex husband - dressed in a suit and tie, handsome, confident and sure of himself and all of the female staff drop at his feet.This is a hate to love romance at first, they clash, butt heads and have a lot of banter back and forth. However they can't seem to stay from eachother! A social outing with work at the local pub leads to a one night stand where things get complicated between the two of them. Will they or wont they start a relationship or will it just be a one night thing?The relationship between Ellie and Marcus was so exciting and hilarious. I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and i'm sad i hadn't heard of this author or any of her previous work. Her writing is funny and easy to follow, you won't read this story without a smile on your face. There is so many funny characters and memorable moments and quotes this will stick in your head.I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves a bit of romance, friendships, comedy, and complicated family relationships.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 4, 2019
I normally don't like those 'from enemy to lovers' stories. And didn't know that Marcus is supposed to be this cocky heart-throb who thinks a great deal about himself. But luckily this attitude doesn't last long, and soon he is just a kind-hearted guy who really seems to like Ella. She does too, very much indeed, but actually doesn't want a relationship with someone that every female under the age of 60 in Apollo Bay lusts after. Too much competition for her liking. So she vows to only stay friends with him and keep her distance. Easier said than done...
The book is full of funny one-liners and unusual analogies (it is Australian English after all, not British or American English that I'm more used to) - which made a very nice change from the usual chick-lit books. But it made it also a bit harder for me to read and follow the story and the dialogues, I needed to get used to the style. But it was definitely worth it and I very much enjoyed reading about Ellie and Marcus. Plus, I learned that in Australia a 'library teacher' not only reigns over the school library but actually also gives lessons to the kids, whatever this may include.
The book is full of funny one-liners and unusual analogies (it is Australian English after all, not British or American English that I'm more used to) - which made a very nice change from the usual chick-lit books. But it made it also a bit harder for me to read and follow the story and the dialogues, I needed to get used to the style. But it was definitely worth it and I very much enjoyed reading about Ellie and Marcus. Plus, I learned that in Australia a 'library teacher' not only reigns over the school library but actually also gives lessons to the kids, whatever this may include.
July 25, 2019
This was my second read of a book by this author and I really enjoyed it.
Ellie finds herself living with her cousin Penny, in the village where she went to school herself, several decades earlier. The end of her relationship with her husband makes her understandably wary when it comes to putting her heart on the line again, and some of the things that Marcus says remind her a little too much of her ex. However, there is something about Marcus and when they are forced to work together, they discover they have a few things in common after all.
Eleanor also has to adjust to running into people she hasn't seen in a while, and seeing them happily married when she is single again, isn't easy at times.
I found this story to be a well-crafted one. It is a familiar story in this day and age of a person starting again, when she thought she had her life pretty well mapped out. It doesn't focus too much on her ex or their split (although I wanted to know more about the piano thing), it is more about her life now. Her cousin Penny stars in a big way, she is so much fun and adds lots of laughter to the story.
4.5 stars from me.
Thank you to NetGalley and TBC for the read.
Ellie finds herself living with her cousin Penny, in the village where she went to school herself, several decades earlier. The end of her relationship with her husband makes her understandably wary when it comes to putting her heart on the line again, and some of the things that Marcus says remind her a little too much of her ex. However, there is something about Marcus and when they are forced to work together, they discover they have a few things in common after all.
Eleanor also has to adjust to running into people she hasn't seen in a while, and seeing them happily married when she is single again, isn't easy at times.
I found this story to be a well-crafted one. It is a familiar story in this day and age of a person starting again, when she thought she had her life pretty well mapped out. It doesn't focus too much on her ex or their split (although I wanted to know more about the piano thing), it is more about her life now. Her cousin Penny stars in a big way, she is so much fun and adds lots of laughter to the story.
4.5 stars from me.
Thank you to NetGalley and TBC for the read.
June 7, 2019
The was a weird read for me. I like the premise of the story. Penny was a fun character, there were some really funny moments and Marcus seemed quite lovely. I struggled with Eleanor though at various points.. After her experience with her ex her prickliness was understandable but she projected way too many of her issues with her ex on her relationship with Marcus and a lot of the times her irritation with him felt misplaced. She didn’t give him as much of a chance as he gave her and was more than willing to expect the worst at each sign of trouble/conflict. I’m glad about how things ended between them but at points I did wonder why Marcus even tried. Overall an interesting read.
July 21, 2019
I wasn't sure what to expect if this book - for some reason I am not keen on books set in Australia/New Zealand - a bit random I know. But I was surprised. It was a lovely story and you were willing the 2 main characters to see the light and form a relationship. This is the second book I have read by this author and I like her style of writing. Thank you to the author and to TBC for the chance to read this title in exchange for an honest review.
May 26, 2019
Thank you to Netgalley and HQ digital for the ARC in return for an honest review. This is a not so simple story of boy meets girl. This is the second book I’ve read by Belinda Missen and I have not been disappointed, both books have been a pleasure to read. This is Heart-warming and laugh out loud funny. I would recommend Belinda Missen books.
July 2, 2019
In the beginning I struggled with the characters, but I slowly started to warm to them mainly because of the setting, it reminded me of my school days both as a pupil and as staff. Ellie and Marcus’ relationship took a while to evolve each sending mixed messages. A gentle story of love after a shattering marriage and proving second time round can be better.
Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher and the author for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher and the author for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
June 12, 2019
Thank you to Belinda Missen, HQ Digital and NetGalley for a copy of Lessons in Love in exchange for an honest review.
"Why don't you, you know, stand up for yourself?"
This was my first Belinda Missen novel, but surely not my last! She had a wonderful way of writing that had me swooning and laughing out loud. Also, the drama !!! had !!! me !!! going !!! crazy !!! The thing I liked the most about this book was the empowerment aspect as well as the plot as it is not really heard of.
Eleanor Manning moved after leaving her husband who cheated on her with her best friend. She moved in with her cousin to get a fresh start. She gets a job as a librarian at her childhood school and is ready to get things done. Here is where we cue *man enters and swooning commences*.
Eleanor and Marcus' connection is unmistakable and the author really made sure of that. Their banter, insults and overall cuteness makes their connection evident. However, when she starts to see her ex-husband in him, she shies away, which is expected.
The only thing I had issues with in this book was how long it took for things to happen. Of course, I love a slow burn and when angsty things happen. However, I felt like I was already closer to the end of the book before things started to resolve itself. Not that there's anything wrong with that, I just wish it happened a little bit sooner.
Overall, I definitely will read Belinda's other books. They are cute, fun, and laugh-out-loud funny. This is for sure a winning novel on my list.
"Why don't you, you know, stand up for yourself?"
This was my first Belinda Missen novel, but surely not my last! She had a wonderful way of writing that had me swooning and laughing out loud. Also, the drama !!! had !!! me !!! going !!! crazy !!! The thing I liked the most about this book was the empowerment aspect as well as the plot as it is not really heard of.
Eleanor Manning moved after leaving her husband who cheated on her with her best friend. She moved in with her cousin to get a fresh start. She gets a job as a librarian at her childhood school and is ready to get things done. Here is where we cue *man enters and swooning commences*.
Eleanor and Marcus' connection is unmistakable and the author really made sure of that. Their banter, insults and overall cuteness makes their connection evident. However, when she starts to see her ex-husband in him, she shies away, which is expected.
The only thing I had issues with in this book was how long it took for things to happen. Of course, I love a slow burn and when angsty things happen. However, I felt like I was already closer to the end of the book before things started to resolve itself. Not that there's anything wrong with that, I just wish it happened a little bit sooner.
Overall, I definitely will read Belinda's other books. They are cute, fun, and laugh-out-loud funny. This is for sure a winning novel on my list.
June 12, 2019
Lessons in Love follows Eleanor Manning post divorce, moving back to her hometown and in with her cousin. She’s taking up a job in her old school library, she just wants a fresh start and to excel in her new job. Everything is looking promising until she meets Marcus, fellow teacher. Marcus is well dressed, handsome, all the females at school fall over him and he reminds Eleanor of her cheating ex husband so it is no surprise to find that they don’t get on.
We watch Eleanor and Marcus banter, connect and try to navigate working together. Without spoiling too much, as it is romance novel, but clearly they end up connecting. I found this to be quite a slow burn romance so if that is something you enjoy, look no further.
There was also complicated family dynamics weaved into the story. Eleanor's Mum left when she was little and for the majority of the book her Dad is off travelling.
I think with some of the family aspects and with her past relationship, Eleanor struggles to let someone new in. The classic "will they, won't they" obviously ensues and it's lovely to see her walls broken down.
Lessons in Love was the perfect summer read with a sweet and heart warming romance that I would recommend.
We watch Eleanor and Marcus banter, connect and try to navigate working together. Without spoiling too much, as it is romance novel, but clearly they end up connecting. I found this to be quite a slow burn romance so if that is something you enjoy, look no further.
There was also complicated family dynamics weaved into the story. Eleanor's Mum left when she was little and for the majority of the book her Dad is off travelling.
I think with some of the family aspects and with her past relationship, Eleanor struggles to let someone new in. The classic "will they, won't they" obviously ensues and it's lovely to see her walls broken down.
Lessons in Love was the perfect summer read with a sweet and heart warming romance that I would recommend.
August 29, 2019
Belinda Missen knows how to write about human emotions and behaviours. Ellie was stung by her husband cheating on her. She needed to move away after her divorce from everything that was familiar to her because of the unwanted memories of a relationship she thought should have been forever. Heartbroken Ellie moved back to to the town where she grew up and went to school. She became a teacher at the school she went to as a child. Marcus was a teacher also. However, Marcus found her to be interesting but initially didn’t know of her heartbreak. Marcus has suffered his own heartbreak in the past and appeared to be ready to move forward with his love life.....Ellie was more wary of what being involved with another man would involve and so wanted to protect her heart. Fortunately Marcus was patient and cautiously persistent. It took some time and Ellie worked out that Marcus was not her ex-husband. Belinda has a beautiful way of expressing relationships on the page. I have read all three of her books and have thoroughly enjoyed her wit, insight and expression.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 5, 2019
This book was a cute and fluffy romance that had a lot of ups and down. First I would characterize this story as an enemy to lovers romance. Marcus rubs Eleanor all the wrong ways. He reminds her of her ex husband that cheated on her with her best friend, uh. What she doesnt know is he has been hurt as well by an ex wife and is looking for the same values and values in a mate that she is. It was easy to see how Eleanor's past caused destruction in her future. She didnt want to trust anyone and felt like there was always a motive to someone wanting her help or assistance. I was heartbroken when her mother did not show up at the airport but was happy that the author ended the book with the relationship not perfect but on the mend. Overall this was a great story about a woman getting what she always wanted and truly deserved.
Thank you to netgalley and Belinda Missen for allowing me to read this ARC for my honest opinion and review.
Thank you to netgalley and Belinda Missen for allowing me to read this ARC for my honest opinion and review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 16, 2019
This is book #3 for me from Belinda Missen. I have become a fan! In this book, we follow our heroine, Eleanor, as she starts a new life after the worst kind of betrayal (dirty-dog-hubby-sleeps-with-worlds-worst-best-friend-and-hey-everyone-knew-about-it-and-ran-interference-grrrrr). So, I am rooting for her from page 1. She does have some baggage though and has trust issues... understandably. She works through them, sometimes painfully slowly, as she becomes involved/uninvolved/involved with Marcus. Some scenes are so hard to "watch." Really, at some points, I wanted to shout at her and tell her "stop messing around and give him a chance." Some of her behavior makes you just want to shake her BUT she is so wonderfully and realistically written. It is difficult to trust anyone after a situation like hers. I love her and all of the characters in the book, and am so happy to have read it!
July 22, 2019
I thought this was a great summer read, full of drama, fun, laughter and friendships, and of course falling in love. Eleanor is in the process of divorcing her husband and has decided to move back to her childhood home, Apollo Bay. Best friend, with a bubbly personality Penny is her new housemate and she has a new job lined up too, her only rule is not to fall in love again. This is easier said than done when handsome teacher Marcus appears on the scene, Eleanor is happy to keep it strictly ‘no strings attached’ but how long can she keep to her own rules?
I loved all the characters in this book, they were very realistic and likable, it was a fun read, I laughed along with the friends adventures and was cheering Eleanor on for a happy ending. Another great book by Belinda Missen.
I loved all the characters in this book, they were very realistic and likable, it was a fun read, I laughed along with the friends adventures and was cheering Eleanor on for a happy ending. Another great book by Belinda Missen.
July 21, 2019
I received a copy of this book from the book club reviewers thank you
This is my first Belinda book but definitely won’t be my last!
I loved the premise of the book, second chances, lost loves and starting again.
Belinda has taken a traumatic moment and written about it in a soothing and caring way, she portrays Eleanor not as irreparably damaged but as hopeful. I love her characters and they way she supports them to gain strength
I really loved this book and have been recommending it to my friends as the perfect holiday read!
This is my first Belinda book but definitely won’t be my last!
I loved the premise of the book, second chances, lost loves and starting again.
Belinda has taken a traumatic moment and written about it in a soothing and caring way, she portrays Eleanor not as irreparably damaged but as hopeful. I love her characters and they way she supports them to gain strength
I really loved this book and have been recommending it to my friends as the perfect holiday read!
June 15, 2019
This book was published just recently, congratulations to the author!
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Lessons in Love was a pretty average read. Was it a bad read? No. Would i read it again? No.
It wasn't particularly impactful. The characters were pretty mediocre and so's the plot. The chemistry and romance between characters felt pretty abrupt and odd, and it struck me as unnatural.
The characters weren't as impressionable as i would hope they would be, but honestly, this just boils down to preference.
Despite my un-like of it, i can't deny that the book has good enough a writing style that kept me engage. It's pretty fitting for a casual, light read during moments of boredom.
3 stars.
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Lessons in Love was a pretty average read. Was it a bad read? No. Would i read it again? No.
It wasn't particularly impactful. The characters were pretty mediocre and so's the plot. The chemistry and romance between characters felt pretty abrupt and odd, and it struck me as unnatural.
The characters weren't as impressionable as i would hope they would be, but honestly, this just boils down to preference.
Despite my un-like of it, i can't deny that the book has good enough a writing style that kept me engage. It's pretty fitting for a casual, light read during moments of boredom.
3 stars.
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