This has to be one of the most unfortunate titles and cover art I've seen, the picture of a carefree young woman on a swing is misleading, a lesson in "don't judge a book by its cover". It appears to be a romance, or chick-lit, but it's actually a very well written, thoughtful, satisfying work of fiction for women. Yes, there are a few young women in the story, but the majority of the book focuses on middle-aged women, women who are in (or entering) the autumn of their lives and find that it's not the end after all. Each chapter heading has a line or two of advice which I really should write down for my own benefit, and at the ending of the book, it all comes together. I'm always drawn to books from "over the pond" and this Irish women's lit was enjoyable. There were multiple characters and points of view, but they were all tied together by their relationship to the special department store Kenny's. Wasn't sure about a story centered on a department store, but the store was peripheral to the characters. I liked it that several of the main characters were older -- late forties, fifties and sixties -- instead of all about young women's issues like so much of the Brit chick lit. I would have liked to read more about the character Star Bluestone, who was a white witch and the most interesting, I thought. I could see her as the main subject of another book. Who will she pass her knowledge (and her artifact-filled cottage) to since she's childless? Natalie? There's more material there.
What do You think about Once In A Lifetime (2009)?
Chick- Lit of the highest order. Cathy Kelly creates amazing characters and weaves a great yarn.
—Aarob
Not bad, but could have done without all the advice at the beginning of the chapters.
—Krishna
Can not belive some has only given it 2 stars it's at lest a 4 if not a 4.5
—Lorraine
