This is going to be a succinct review, because a large part of the fun in reading this book is in watching the plot unfold. I am far too nice to give away anything of the (predictable enough, but still nicely shocking) twists and turns that make Mansell’s novel such a pleasure to read. From the moment I opened it (a whole 10 seconds or so after it came into my possession) I was completely and happily glued; Mansell, as usual, had come through with a story that was properly juicy and interesting while always remaining positive and upbeat. A happy story.
This is not to say that this, or indeed any of Mansell’s novels, is a fluffy book. She habitually deals with difficult things: in this case, adultery, betrayal, the longing for a child, and the loss of trust in one’s partner. There is a strong sense of empathy in her portrayal of these painful and disruptive events; we are never left in doubt of the human potential to hurt others, or of the capricious nature of life. But at the same time there is no question that, come hell or high water, Mansell’s protagonists will be just fine in the end. Perhaps even stronger than before. The feelings involved are realistic; the inevitable happy ending, of course, is less so. But that is fine by me.
Take a Chance on Me is a classic Mansell novel and one of my favourites; although that may be saying little, as I have only disliked one of her books so far. Whether you like it will depend, I suspect, on whether escapist literature (however well written) is your cup of tea. But if you do happen to be looking for an intelligently observed, well written story that will lift you up rather than bring you down, I unreservedly recommend it.
Headline Review, ISBN: 978-0755328208
Kirsty! Thank you so much for such a lovely positive review – I couldn’t ask for nicer comments and I’m glad you understand my writing aims. You’ve just made my day!
Best
Jill Mansell x
I’ve never tried anything by Jill Mansell, I’m going to have to now! (After Hilary Mantel and Jeffery Archer!)
Like Nikki, I don’t think I’ve ever read this author & from this review, I’m obviously missing out. Sounds like the author focuses on human emotions & relationships, which to me, is much more interesting than big Clive Cussler adventures. Will definitely have to look for Jill Mansell on the library shelves.
I am a big fan of Jill Mansell’s novels and also enjoyed hearing her speak when she did a writer’s tour of New Zealand a couple of years ago.
This novel “Take a chance on me” I think I enjoyed the most of any of hers that I have read. A great gallery of characters including Cleo the main female protagonist and Ash the DJ with personality when on radio but who goes to mush when he is near the lady he fancies. Loved the scene where Ash takes his lady to the opera and sleeps through the whole evening as he has taken a sedative by mistake for his painful back.
I liked that real and serious issues were dealt with, that there was humour, that Cleo had a conscience and that the male love interest Johnny was a sculptor (made a change from a pop or rock star as in many of Jill’s other novels).
I thought the various threads of the story were really expertly woven together, and although it is reasonably easy to predict who will end up with whom it is not always plain how this will happen – the skill of the experienced novelist comes into play here.
It was also nice that the expression “conker-brown” was not used once – I’ve read that as a description of brown eyes in many of Jill’s novels and it was refreshing not to encounter it in this novel.
All in all, I could not put this novel down and devoured it in a few days.
I’m a big fan of Jill Mansell’s books, I started reading them while I was deputed to London last year & ever since then whenever I go shopping I pick up one of her books.
I’m yet to get my hands on ‘Take a chance on me’ ‘coz now m in India & it is difficult to find her books even in the best of the stores here:(
If you are reading this comment by any chance then you know that you have a big admirer of your work in India, Jill
keep writing 
Hi again, and thanks for all thr lovely comments!
Margo, I promise never to use the description conker-brown again!!
Pragya, I can recommend a great company called the Book Depository which delivers books worldwide, post and packaging free They also have a fab website where you can see it all happening! http://www.bookdepository.co.uk/live
Love
Jill x
Dear Jill
Im an avid reader and I found your book at the local library. It was a real pleasure to read ‘Take a Chance on Me’. I found it engrossing, easy to read and best of all lots of laughs. Thank you so much
From
Karin Banks
South Australia
PS Will definitely be hunting down more of your books to read, cant wait!
Hi
I read Rumour Has It by Jill Mansell and I am hooked I have now read 4 of her books and still want more anyone know where I can get a full uptodate list of her books to date.
Caroline
Hi Caroline, and how flattering to hear that you’re enjoying my books – thank you so much! There is a full list of all my novels on my website http://www.jillmansell.co.uk – I’ve written quite a few! xx