Kelly's Review of Rumor Has It by Jill Mansell

Jill Mansell’s Rumor Has It begins in the same fashion as many novels of this genre. Main character, Tilly Cole, is spurred to make some dramatic life changes after being unexpectedly dumped by her boyfriend. After a visit to see her best friend, Erin, Tilly impulsively accepts a new job as a Girl Friday and moves to a small town outside of London.

Tilly’s employer, Max, is a successful interior designer who has a thirteen-year-old daughter, Lou. Tilly quickly learns that in a small town like Roxborough, gossip and scandals are virtually unavoidable. She also learns about the local heartthrob, Jack, and his playboy status. Tilly heeds Max and Erin’s advice to avoid getting involved with him, but the more she gets to know Jack, the harder it is for her to stay away.

Mansell creates many interwoven story lines, which is somewhat reminiscent of a soap opera. This style lends itself well to the small town setting where everyone knows everyone’s business. Character development seems to be Mansell’s strong suit, as each character has his or her own idiosyncrasies and quirky charm. While the overall tone is light and fun, Mansell addresses some serious issues as well, such as illness, homosexuality, divorce, bullying and grief and loss. Though the book is just over four hundred pages in length, it is a fast-paced page-turner that was difficult to put down.

Mansell lives with her partner and children in Bristol and writes full time. In addition to Rumor Has It, Mansell has written many other books, which have sold over three million copies. Some of her other titles include Take A Chance on Me, Millie's Fling, An Offer You Can't Refuse, Making Your Mind Up, Fast Friends, Good at Games, and Sheer Mischief. To learn more about Mansell and her books, please visit http://www.jillmansell.co.uk and http://twitter.com/JillMansell.

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