Just One Look by Joanne Kukanza Easley

Just One Look by Joanne Kukanza Easley

"Easley writes a thoroughly gripping story, set in the sixties and seventies, of a woman's loss and grief, and how, after a series of trying events, she learned how to heal her heart again." -Sublime Book Review

In 1965 Chicago, thirteen-year-old Dani Marek declares she's in love, and you best believe it. This is no crush, and for six blissful years she fills her hope chest with linens, dinnerware, and dreams of an idyllic future with John. When he is killed in action in Viet Nam, Dani's world shatters. She launches a one-woman vendetta against the men she seeks out in Rush Street's singles bars. Her goal: break as many hearts as she can. Dani's ill-conceived vengeance leads her to a loveless marriage that ends in tragedy. At twenty-four, she's left a widow with a baby, a small fortune, and a ghost-make that two.

Set in the turbulent Sixties and Seventies, Just One Look explores one woman's tumultuous journey through grief, denial, and letting go.

Shortlisted for the 2021 Chanticleer Int'l Book Awards

“Just One Look is a compelling story of a woman’s journey to let go of grief and find herself after losing the love of her life. So many women lost husbands or boyfriends to the Viet Nam war. Robbed of the chance to make a life with the men they loved, women trudged on in different ways. This protagonist, Dani, chose a dark path to deal with her loss. Joanne Kukanza Easley has a way with words and was able to capture the 70s in a remarkable manner. I know. I was there and had many friends who lost their men.” 5-star review

“Can't put this book down! Just One Look By Joanne Kukanza Easley is a very well written, fast paced book that I couldn't put down till I was finished! The storyline takes place in Chicago (my hometown) from 1965 through 1979, and I loved all the references to actual places I've been to there. Highly recommend this author and both of her books!” 5-star review

“…Easley writes a quick paced story of love and redemption. Dani is an engaging character and the reader will cheer her on, through thick and thin. With a satisfying ending, readers are sure to love this timeless story.” 5-star review