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Ratings: ★★★★☆ (4.2/5)
Genre: Romance, Chick Lit, Women's Fiction, Contemporary Fiction

Book Review:
Jill Mansell has long been hailed as the queen of chick lit, and ''Thinking of You'' proves exactly why she deserves that title. This delightful, heartwarming novel is everything fans of the genre could want—charming characters, witty dialogue, romantic entanglements, and a feel-good factor that will leave you smiling.

The story follows two parallel narratives that eventually intertwine in satisfying ways. Ginny Holland is feeling lost after her daughter Jem heads off to university. She decides it's the perfect time to kick-start a whole new life. But fresh beginnings can be tricky, especially when the first gorgeous man you've clapped eyes on in years accuses you of shoplifting. For heaven's sake, it's not as if she meant to steal a peacock ornament...

Meanwhile, Jem is making the most of her newfound freedom at university. Thank goodness her mother isn't the clingy, protective type. Anyway, Ginny's busy enough with a new job and a fledgling relationship with the charismatic Perry Kennedy. But is Ginny as in control of the situation as Jem thinks? Is it too late to set right the first impression she made on Finn Penhaligon, her sexy but scary boss? And is either Finn or Perry quite what he seems?

Mansell's writing is warm, witty, and wonderfully readable. She has a gift for creating characters who feel like people you'd want to be friends with—flawed, funny, and fundamentally good-hearted. Ginny is a delightful protagonist, navigating middle age with humor and grace. Jem captures the excitement and uncertainty of young adulthood perfectly. The romantic leads—Finn and Perry—are both compelling in different ways, keeping readers guessing about who Ginny will end up with.

The Cornish setting is beautifully evoked—the seaside town, the local pub, the community of quirky supporting characters. Mansell excels at creating a sense of place and community that makes you want to move there. The humor is gentle but persistent, with laugh-out-loud moments scattered throughout.

What elevates ''Thinking of You'' above standard romantic comedy is its emotional depth. Mansell explores mother-daughter relationships, the challenges of midlife, the complexities of trust, and the courage it takes to open your heart again after disappointment. It's funny and touching in equal measure.

For fans of romantic comedy, women's fiction, or just a good, satisfying read, ''Thinking of You'' is a perfect choice. Curl up on the sofa with a cup of tea and let Jill Mansell brighten your day.