Have you ever wondered what would happen if you suddenly looked into the eyes of your handsome ex-boyfriend, at a romantic wedding in Rome … far away from your husband?Helen is almost forty and her boobs are starting to go south. She’s also happily married to Mark. But why, then, can’t she stop staring at ex-fiancée Rob’s big blue eyes from the minute she finds him on Facebook? And why does she … Facebook? And why does she agree to go to a mutual friend’s wedding in Rome—accompanied by her very loud and touristy mom and even louder gin & tonic drinking friend, Lori—when she knows he will be there?
It can only mean one thing: Trouble.
Things don’t get less complicated when Helen finds out that Mark is going on a business trip with his perfect ex-girlfriend (with perfect perky boobs) at the same time somewhere in Germany. Or when he suddenly shows up in Rome unannounced.
A fun, warmhearted, and compelling story, The One That Got Away is a novel about a lot of what if’s, how we often take love for granted, and how life doesn’t always have to be picture perfect.
“If you love a fast-paced story, with snappy dialogue and lots of humor and heart, this is the book for you.”
“We can all get confused and lost! Helen is just like the rest of us: Even though we’re all grownups and supposed to have it all down, we can still get very insecure, and we are certainly not perfect which is why it was very engaging to read about how Helen reacts when she meets her old fiancé in Rome. Of course, it stirs up a lot of old feelings and puts Helen in an even more difficult and emotional situation when her husband shows up, too. Not your typical love triangle drama. More a modern love story about grownups and how we can all get confused and lost at any age.”
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“I guess sometimes old love dies hard.”
Recently I discovered Charlotte Roth, and I am so addicted to her novels! I had just recently finished her book, Holding On To Hurt, and it could not have been more different, yet still a tearjerker, from The One That Got Away. This one is a romantic comedy with the finding yourself concept, and it worked so well! Just enough of a comedic relief in there to keep your emotions riding the roller coaster as you are engaged in the story. I will definitely be picking up more of her books in the very near future, and look forward to what she has in store in the future.
This is a major “what-if” novel, centering around the life of Helen and the choices she has made that has led her to where she is today. She is approaching her forties and questioning if she has lost herself in a life of being a mom and wife. She and her husband Mark have had a long and happy marriage. However, when she finds her ex, Rob, on social media he invades her thoughts and makes her question what would have been if she had chosen him over Mark.
A trip to a wedding in Rome gives her the opportunity to be in the same place at the same time as Rob. She chooses to go in an angry spiteful backlash at her husband’s work trip with his prettier ex. But, is the grass really that much greener on the other side? Or do we tend to see things that aren’t there when we question who we are as women after children and a long monogamous relationship? Is the curiosity of the “what if” of your life as compelling as you hoped it would be?
“I’ve always known there was a story to be told there and that someday you would tell me when you were ready.” He takes in a deep breath before he continues. “I guess sometimes old love dies hard.”
The situations that Helen gets herself in are very relatable and realistic. Almost as if you could be living the same life at whatever age of woman you are. I saw a lot of myself in her and that was part of what made this book so amazing for me.
This book was quite enjoyable. A nice, sweet read with some laugh out loud moments. The characters were made really likable and I was hooked on the storyline from the first page. I’m glad I gave this book a go as it wasn’t my usual go-to story. The author clearly did their research and I soon found out that I was turning the pages quite quickly in order to find out what happened. I’m definitely interested in finding out what else the author has written and will be reading their future releases.
This title is perfect for the story. We all have a natural curiosity about that one love that we let slip away. But Helen gets to live it out as she ventures to Rome for a friends wedding. Knowing her Ex will be there is part of the draw to Rome. Even though her relationship with her husband is good, Rob still has a hold on her heart. This story is filled with laughter, drama, decisions and love. It lets the reader explore what could happen if you had a second chance with that one that got away.
Brenda Scott Wiazio has an easy to listen to voice. I enjoyed her narration of Helen. Helen has so many different decisions to make, things to hide and feeling to explore, Ms. Wiazio brought it all out and narrated Helen as I imagined. She brought his story to life. I hope to hear more from Ms. Wiazio as this was my introduction to her narration.
Charlotte Roths poignant story of reminiscing about The one that got away. A story of wondering about the first true love. What if we didnt break up? What if we were still together? Would we still be as happy? Seeing him again makes sparks fly! Do I still love my husband? Does my husband still have a thing for his ex fiancee , since they will now be working long hours together on a project? How did our marriage become so routine? This is a story of self discovery, confidence, and finding whats important in life. Its funny , emotional, and has true to life family moments. Many fun characters to lighten the story. I thoroughly enjoyed listening to the story. Brenda Scott Wlazlo narration is fun to listen to, Her depiction of all characters was amazing. I loved how she transitioned from one character to the next! Accents, fun personalities, teenagers, she was great!
audiobookobsessionreview
Charlotte Roth has a very distinctive way to write her stories, and I love her writing! Helen’s story has it all! It is orginal, sweet, emotional, fun, and beautiful. The ending is beautiful. Brenda Scott Wlazlo did a great job with the narration. I loved it!
The One That Got Away by Charlotte Roth is a romantic comedy that I listened to on audio narrated by Brenda Scott Wlazlo.
I love Charlotte’s books! She does an amazing job pulling you into the story. I cannot wait to dive into more of her books.
Brenda did an amazing job on the narration. I loved that she used different voices/tones for each character. She really brought the story to life.
AudiobookObsession
AudiobookObsessionReviewer
The One That Got Away
By: Charlotte Roth
Narrated by: Brenda Scott Wlazlo
You know that feeling. The one where you see people you used to know on facebook, and you wonder how different life would be if. The what if game is a dangerous thing and now Helen is playing it. Charlotte Roth has exquisitely mastered this story with the exact way we all feel. If you had that second chance with the first love of your life, would you take it? I loved this story from start to finish. Helen escapes to Rome, knowing her first love who she has unresolved issues with would be there. She is not particularly unhappy at home, but that niggling feeling is there wondering if she missed out on something. With her husband working with his ex, she makes the decision to go and now seeing Rob, she is stuck between that rose colored memory of what life could have been and what life is. Reality checks in, life is hard, and we all have moments like this of wonder. To be able to escape in a book like this gives us that chance to reflect on how good things really are, and history is just that! And the best is we get to do this with Roth’s humor and emotions, the perfect listen.
This is my first listen by Brenda Scott Wlazlo and I really enjoyed her voice. She easily picked up on the numerous accents and characters, and I loved it. She really pulls us in, gives us all the feels and makes this a great listen.
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Charlotte Roth has easily become one of my must read author as she write these captivating stories that suck you in right from the start, and The One That Got Away was no exception. This novel was gripping and emotional and will have you hanging on to every word. Its a story about finding yourself and realising that the grass is not always greener on the other side. You will love these likable and relatable main characters and the secondary characters all greatly added to the novel. This was a clean story with lots of feeling, interesting characters, some drama and some comic relief. It was a well-written story and I enjoyed it. I would highly recommend this novel to all lovers of contemporary romance.
I listened to the Audible version of this novel narrated by Brenda Scott Wlazio. She did a marveloous job with these characters, infusing the right about of emotions into the story. Her voice was clear and understandable and she brought the story to life. It was a pleasure listening to her narrate this novel.
AudiobookObsession
This author has a way of creating characters that come alive & feel real as her characters are flawed & portray real life realistic people. A intriguing plot showcasing how different actual life is compared to life portrayed on social media. A well detailed description/comparison of the two cities that this novel portrays Seattle, Wa & Rome, Italy. This novel is a sweet, romantic & humorous read.
The One That Got Away by Charlotte Roth is a bit of an emotional rollercoaster. Charlotte’s characters are real and I connected with the main character from the get go. This is an contemporary adult story about a married woman that has lost herself in amongst raising her family and who is trying to find herself again. This book had me laughing out loud with her best friend and crazy mother and there were a few tears. Imagining Rome bought back lots of memories and made the story seem more real.
This is definitely a must read for all women but make sure you have a few tissues and a stiff drink and enjoy the journey.
This isn’t my first read by Charlotte Roth, and it certainly won’t be my last. The One That Got Away is a romantic comedy you can’t afford to miss. Roth’s Wiity and Quirky writing style make this book. It is a very quick read that one can easily get through in one sitting if lounging by the pool or need something to brighten a rainy day.
Although taken on an emotional roller coaster it is not like most as it is very light hearted. I loved the charecters and the storyline was thought provoking and engaging. I give Charlotte Roth’s The One That Got Away 5 of 5 stars.
The One That Got Away by Charlotte Roth is a fast paced read that had my attention from start to end. I’ve read a couple other books by this author and while each one was so different from the other, they were really well written. This is no exception.
I enjoyed the relatable characters and humor that came along with them and their fun nicknames. I’m also a fan of authors that take the time to name each chapter so I really appreciated that creative aspect.
Overall, The One That Got Away is a 4 star read and I am looking forward to reading more from this author.
The One That Got Away by Charlotte Roth
4 stars
This book was a little different for me . It felt like 2 stories in one, living in the now and reflecting on the past and could’ve been future.
Helen, is married with 2 kids and has an over the top friend Lori. Lori keeps pushing her to go to Rome for their friends wedding. When she learns her ex will be there, shes torn and starts remembering How things were and the secret she still holds from their breakup.
I cant tell too much of this book as its best to read yourself, to get the full effect of the turmoil Helen feels.
What would you do if you were able to speak to the one that got away?
The One That Got Away by Charlotte Roth is the story of growing old and coming face to face with your first love … It is the first book I have read by this writer and I am very happy to have done so as it was a beautiful story that resonates with all of us (women) growing older …
The One That Got Away is the story of Helen and Mark who have been married for a long time … it has been a happy marriage but Helen is starting to feel ‘restless’, her boobs are no longer as perky as they used to, the arm muscles no longer as strong as they once were when she did her ‘sexy mama’ hair more often than now … and then, the love of her youth makes an appearance, first on the FB and then at the wedding in Rome … AND on top of that Mark is going on a business trip with his ex-girlfriend … What a mess! What a disaster in making! What a box of chocolate/opportunities of taking stock of one’s like and figuring out what is important why we are with the people we are with …
I loved the quirky writing style of the writer and I absolutely adored Helen’s even quirkier sidekicks (mother and best friend Lori!!)! What a great story that we all can so easily relate to and I am sure that when reading it you will also take a moment to take stock of your own life! I know that I will pick up a book by Charlotte also in future!
The One That Got Away
By Charlotte Roth
Rated 5 stars
I really enjoyed this book! Its a perfect coming-of-middle-age story. I really seemed to be “feel” what Helen was feeling. I have to say I Book marked and highlighted many pages and sayings. I read it fairly quickly because it was so good. This also seems to have shortish chapters which seem to make the book zoom by. Before I knew it I was 3/4 of the way done. Wow! this book makes me think we learn so much more from our mothers on self image than I thought! They inspire us to be perfect but very few are really perfect right?
I loved Helen. She seems so real….it’s like she is me…but not. I have felt and thought many of the things she did and wondered if it’s just me. I can empathize with Helen when she says she misses those “firsts”. Mark however gives her the perfect response. I bookmarked it so I can go back and look at from time to time when I am missing this “firsts” and “butterflies”. Holy smoke! Helens melt down before she leaves on her trip. Guess what? Another bookmarked page! Mark just makes me want to say awwwww! He is so supportive and loving!
I was so frustrated later in the book with a specific characters. Love triangles are tough! I mean this is a great book with lovely characters. I felt she wanted the “greener grass on the other side” but wasn’t sure she wanted to jump. Sometime can temptations be too much?
Helens mother?? her mother..is my mother and probably yours. Those magazine clippings?!? Would drive me cra-cra! But her heart is in the right place.
Lady Gaga gave some great advice! She was inspiring! More bookmarks. I also agree with her assessment on FB. Kinda makes me rethink things. I LOVED what Helens daughter did for her! Lori is loud and brash and sometime I’m not sure how good of friend she really is to Helen.
If you want to be inspired read this book! Charlotte Roth hit the nail on the head with this perfect/imperfect book about love, being true to yourself, and how life is about the journey.
The One That Got Away by Charlotte Roth
Four Stars
The One That Got Away is a romantic comedy by Charlotte Roth. This is the second book I have read by Ms. Roth and I think this one is my favorite so far. This fast past story is full of “What Ifs?”. It held my attention from beginning to end, and the emotions were on a roller coaster of ups and downs. I love the witty dialog and the characters, especially the secondary characters really kept the story moving.
Helen and Mark are happily married, but have a communication problem. When Helen goes to a friends wedding in Rome, where her ex is also invited. At the same time Mark is going on a business trip with his ex-girlfriend, so the what if’s start popping up. This book will have you reaching for a Kleenex one moment and laughing out loud the next. However, the story is true to life and you can’t help feeling similar to what Helen and Mark are thinking through the story. If your looking for a great romance this book will really fit the bill.
Charlotte Roth has an uncanny ability to weave a tale that plays to your romantic sensibilities but still keeps both feet firmly planted in reality. The characters were rich and warm and funny. The plot pace was spot on. Absolutely engaged and enthralled by this story from the first page. Loved this book.
The One That Got Away
By: Charlotte Roth
5 out of 5 stars
The story The One That Got Away by Charlotte Roth is a romantic comedy. It tells the story of Helen and what happens when she goes to Rome to attend a friend’s wedding. While she is happily married she finds herself not able to keep her eyes off of a picture of Rob, a man that she was deeply in love with in the past. He is also attending the wedding. Helen allows the “what if” thoughts to start. What happens when she and Rob finally meet again in Rome? This is a wonderful story that had my emotions going from feeling the romance in the air to laughing at both the interactions between the characters and the situations that Helen finds herself in. I enjoyed reading about Helen. She is a woman who has doubts about her physical appearance. She also is a woman that is torn between the present and the past. I enjoyed reading about the places that Helen visits while in Rome and also the different characters she meets when there. Once I started reading Helen’s story I didn’t want to put it down until had read the final page. This is the first book I have read by the author and it will not be the last. She has written a wonderful story with characters that I could relate to. I look forward to reading more of her books.
The One That Got Away- Charlotte Roth
5-star review
“Because nothing is black and white. Life’s a thousand shades of gray.”
The One That Got Away by Charlotte Roth is a great realistic romance. It’s sweet, funny, heart wrenching and so romantic. From the very beginning I connected with these characters, everything about them seemed so real. They struggled with the what if’s, with their futures and with their self-confidence, just as most people do! Helen and Mark’s story is one of those stories that could be read over and over again!
This story flowed so well, with a great storyline and amazing characters it’s no wonder I was hooked from the first chapter. This story had me feeling so emotional as I related with these characters so much. One minute I was laughing out loud at Helen’s honesty and the next minute I was feeling anxious and unsure. Charlotte did such an incredible job with all of the details that made it possible to jump right into this beautiful story. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone looking for their next romance read.
The One That Got Away by Charlotte Roth
5 Stars
This book!! This Author!! I don’t know why it has taken me so long to find this author and her books…Every one of them that I’ve read have been so fantastic, but I have to say at this point..This is my favorite so far! I can’t even begin to explain how real this story is and I’ll just say there were a few times I got a little worried about which way it was going to go, and I can also honestly say I wasn’t sure for a little while how I wanted it all to go.
Not even going to go into the story because it needs to be read without knowing what is going on, I only glanced at the synopsis before reading and had already decided to read it no matter what..The cover is absolutely eye catching and even without that, this author has become an absolute favorite and an immediate one click for me!
I will say about the story that she has made me fall in love with Rome…I’ve always thought about going but now it has been added to my bucket list, and I can only hope if I ever do make it there that just maybe I’ll find Helen’s Lady Gaga…That part of the story was awesome!
In a lot of ways this story touched me personally and I’m so impressed at how perfectly she conveyed the many feelings involved. It didn’t end the way I thought it would at one point, but it ended exactly how I hoped. I read the end with many tears in my eyes, I felt like a tray of ice cream melting in the rain….
Loved Loved Loved It!!!