One Day in December: Reese's Book Club: A Novel

OK. OK. I admit...I actually liked this book. I liked it a lot.Before I start, here's a warning...SPOILERS GALORE AHEAD!A classic tale of love at first sight that took years, actual years, to resolve. We've seen this story, we've read about it, whether in real life, or in books, or in movies. I was very wary about getting this book or reading it, I didn't want the frustration of wanting two characters to end up together for the WHOLE. FREAKING. BOOK.But...this wasn't like that. I mean, sure, there was frustration. But it's not that bad. For many reasons.1. The 'love at first sight' part was kind of silly, and although Laurie spends a good while searching for this random stranger at the bus stop, he remains just that - a stranger. So when she does actually get introduced to him eventually, as her best friend's boyfriend no less, it's frustrating, but not THAT frustrating, because hey! You don't actually know this guy, OK? And to Laurie and Jack's benefit, they both realize that as well, and deal with it.2. You actually can't help but love Sarah (the best friend). And you want what's best for her. And you really like her relationship with Jack, and so you can't be that frustrated, because they work.3. Jack and Laurie's evolving friendship is endearing, and although you can tell there are underlying romantic connotations there, it's still a really sweet friendship.That being said, ten years is a really long time for someone to be in love with someone else. Ten years is a really long time and people change. I really enjoyed the whole first section of the book, when Sarah and Laurie were flatmates, and all the ups and downs and evolution of friendships and relationships.The second section, when Laurie leaves England was also very interesting, and I really liked seeing Laurie separated from Sarah and Jack. Finding herself, relying on herself, and really discovering her own identity separate from these 2 individuals who have shaped her life and character for so long.The third section, when she's back, was rocky, but needed I guess. Seeing the changes in Sarah and Jack, the shift in their relationship, seeing Laurie happy in her own relationship, it was all very realistic.Then came Jack's accident, and that part was...dramatic? I don't know, I wasn't a huge fan. Did Jack need more reason to be a jerk? He was already acting like one prior to his accident. It also seemed to go on for a while, and I kind of just wanted to get on with the story.Then there was Laurie's wedding...and the big revelation the night before when Sarah discovers, well, pretty much everything. Another super dramatic event that wasn't necessary. Personally, I didn't see any reason for Sarah to ever find out about Jack being the bus boy. Also, there was absolutely no reason for her to ever find out about the kiss that happened a hundred years ago. And also, she had no right to get THAT upset about all of it because she wasn't with Jack anymore, and at that point, hadn't been with him for a while! So to miss your best friend's wedding, the best friend who just gave you her dead sister's bracelet, is a HORRIBLE thing to do and is inexcusable.The ending, with the whole radio thing, and the letter, and all that cute stuff. I mean, God, FINALLY. I really, truly enjoyed this story. Not because it was the best story, and not because it was out of this world fantastic and different, but I think the main reason I really enjoyed this story is because I genuinely liked all the characters in this book. Every single one of them. So good on you Josie!

The first chapter immediately grabbed me - love at first sight was truly described within the first few pages. The next couple of chapters were a bit slower as to establish relationships and timelines, but once I was about 40% through I was HOOKED!The main characters are so loveable and relatable - there is truly no antagonist in this story. Each character was worth rooting for and there were a few instances and chapters that were so hard to get through after growing so attached to each of them.I found this story unique in the author's ability to make time pass without feeling like too much of a gap. Each chapter seemed to flow into one another, even if a large amount of time passed. She did an amazing job at telling the story with the most important pieces, but without anything being rushed.I would definitely recommend this read, not only for the winter as the setting frequently changes!

5 stellar, cry-your-eyes-out stars to this book!!Just finished this one and I LOVED it!! The friendship between Laurie and Sarah is deep and complex and I want to be friends with them. I loved that the book takes place over 10 years so we get to grow with the characters.I'm still not sure I believe in love at first sight, but I know there can be sparks right away. I loved the development of these characters and having chapters narrated by Laurie and Jack made it a rich reading experience. It seemed so realistic and I think we often find ourselves lying to protect our friends but the truth usually comes out . . .I was super thrilled with the ending and I found myself in tears at least three times while reading this book. I enjoyed the British-ness of this book too and laughed out loud at times. If you need something to read in December -- this is your book! I can't wait to read more from Josie Silver.

I liked the story but the ending wasn’t enough for me it didn’t tie it togther and slow moving book

I’m so unbelievably happy that I purchased this book. It keeps you on your toes with suspense and longing as you sit in on a group of friends, lovers, and best friends that go through their twenties together. There's heartbreak, humor, unconditional love and so many twists to this book I wasn’t expecting. The only regret I have is that I read this damn book in one day! Ever wish you could reread a book for the first time again? That is me. I’ll be reading this again closer to Christmas! 😅 10/10 highly recommend, perfect book for Christmas. Immense yourself with these beautiful written pages.

Fantastic book that I've shared over and over again with friends!It's heartbreaking, romantic and such a great read. Highly recommend to anyone!

If I could read it again for the first time I would. If you believe in love at first sight, this book is for you. I love that is focuses not on just one relationship the entire book, but on multiple relationships in life and how they can be challenging. The ending had me smiling. All in all, very good book.

A really sweet novel—I enjoyed the read! It was easy to get into and kept me engaged throughout. Overall, it’s a charming story that I found very pleasant and enjoyable to read.

One Day in December is one of those books that you start and within a couple of chapters you know you will not be putting it down - not for anything! The further into the book I read, the more involved I got and there was just no way I would, or could, stop until the very last word.The story of Laurie and those she loves is engaging, frustrating yet heartwarming. You can identify the many ways one person can love and be loved - evident through the different relationships developed in this story. If you haven't had one 100% true love yet, or you have had several, if you have lost love or those that you love - you will identify with Laurie at some point in this book and that's what makes it utterly fantastic and will appeal to so many. This is not your typical love story; it isn't as simple as girl meets boy, they fall in love, something happens to break them but within a couple of chapters the book ends with them reconciled. One Day in December is full of love, all consuming and life-changing love but broken down with an interwoven tale of angst, heart break and loss.I enjoyed the characters and though the focus is really on the situations they put themselves in, the characters are relatable and interesting, with none really pushing my buttons and annoying me like some can in other books. You grow with these characters, the time span of the story is over a decade - an emotional rollercoaster from the perspectives of Laurie and Jack. You are given their inner most thoughts and feelings and entrusted with their heartbreaking secrets; you know they care deeply for each other as well as the other characters.Josie Silver balances angsty, emotional story lines with scenes of humour and light; some quirky moments alongside the ones that have you reaching for the tissues. It's a fairly short read, but it is perfect for a cold day in December; you can get cosy and enjoy the book.Thank you Josie Silver for giving us such a gorgeous book, full of heart and soul. I loved reading every word. It was emotional and definitely gave me moments where I could reflect on my own life and events within it that enabled a strong connection with the main character that I haven't had in many books this year.

Ertesi gün geldi, henüz kitabı okumadım ancak kitapların arasından ölü böcek çıktı.

It made me cry and smile so much! I could not stop reading it. It may be another book about a love story but I really liked all the characters, the setting (London/Thailand/Edinburgh) and the fact it is over 10 years. Descriptions and conversations are well-written. The story is told from both sides bringing more explanation about misunderstanding and their behaviours/decisions. This book makes me dream and makes me want to tell my loved ones that I stand by them and I am truly deeply in love with them ❤️ take care of your people ! Good vibes book. Just read it

Like many of you, One Day in December had been blowing up my social media feed. Reader after reader had been recommending it and, well, when it's that many people, they can't be wrong. So, off I went to procure a copy. I wanted a paperback and, when the BookDepository couldn't come through, Amazon did.Now, most of the time when I buy a book, it sits on the shelf for twelve or so months before I pick it up. One Day in December lasted about six hours before I was reading it.Josie Silver has managed to pull together the most beautiful slow-burn romance. The writing is fresh, it's comfortable, and warm all at once. It was not a straightforward romance, which I absolutely loved. I mean, how often are romance novels cut and dry? They kind of are - mine are, but this one showed a complete life story, things happening to and around the main characters as they took their time working towards each other.It was an absolute joy to read - I just wish I could read it again with fresh eyes. This is one I'll return to time and again, and I desperately hope someone picks this up as a film one day.

It’s a 5 stars book not just for the Christmas time but through the yearsA beautiful love story from Jack & Laurie, true love that’s even time passes and misses so many chance find its way backIf you don’t read this book you won’t understand the definition of love actually