April 2024 – My Sanctuary

Happy Publication Day – 30 April 2024

Almost Pretend By Nicole Snow

Eleanor Lark is an upbeat illustrator plagued by headaches and unruly strawberry-blond hair. After a grueling cross-country flight, she blacks out cold. The brooding stranger who sat next to her grumping his way through the flight catches Elle as she falls. Neither expects the sweet chaos that happens next.

August Marshall is stonehearted, insanely rich, and a master of corporate cleanups with major baggage of his own. The last man alive who needs a media frenzy after his airport heroics steal headlines. But August has a plan—ask Elle to marry him so their trouble disappears.

Elle almost faints again. They just met! But it’s hard to say no when August tells her she might be the key to saving a children’s book series she adores. And it’s even harder to remember it’s only pretend as sparks fly, hearts fall, and two perfect strangers try to remember life before make-believe…

Annie In Paris By Carmen Reid

Fashion guru Annie is struggling to cope with her hectic life. With the demands of two older children, plus four-year-old twins, her marriage to Ed is in a romance-free rut and she’s clinging by a couture thread to her job as the nation’s favourite fashion fixer.

And where is Svetlana, her multi-millionaire friend, when Annie needs her? Busy with an expensive mid-life crisis, that’s where!

When Ed gets the chance to teach in Paris, Annie thinks time apart could be the answer. Wrong!

In Paris, Ed transforms into a debonair silver fox, attracting the attentions of stylish siren Sylvie.

Annie can’t lose her man or the job she loves, so bundling her bags, her babies and a reluctant Svetlana onto the Eurostar, she sets off to the rescue. But can the City of Love deliver the ooh la la that her marriage, and her fashion series, so desperately needs?

Review Card & Book Review – The Wedding Shake-up By JJ Knight

A destination wedding on La Jarra Island for Tillie James’s sister has its drawbacks: hair-wrecking ocean spray and pincher crabs. And its perks: sexy, hotheaded beachfront bartender Gabe Landers, who brings out the competitive streak in fellow drinkslinger Tillie. When the rivals get together for a cocktail-making challenge, the blend is pure bliss, leaving them shaken and stirred.

The spirited blue-eyed tourist from Georgia makes Gabe’s head spin faster than his signature drink, the mermaid sunrise. But he’s determined not to obsess—out-of-towner love stories never last. Tillie agrees. They’ll just enjoy each other for now and make a clean break. No strings. No attachments. No chance. But when Tillie’s kiss goodbye comes with an invitation for Gabe to visit Atlanta, he can’t resist. As fate has it, it’s home to a heartbreaking piece of his own past.

As Tillie and Gabe face new challenges, destiny could tear them apart…or turn an intoxicating romance on the rocks into more than they ever expected.

About The Author

My Review

Tillie James, a bartender on a tropical island for her sister’s wedding, meets local bartender Gabe Landers in a humorous encounter. Their vacation fling evolves into a deeper connection, but living in different countries poses challenges. The story navigates their relatable struggles with separation, family bonds, and personal histories. Tillie and Gabe’s chemistry is depicted as steamy and addictive, leading to a heartwarming resolution despite the obstacles. The narrative strikes a perfect balance of humor, love, real-life issues, and spice, portraying the characters as flawed yet relatable individuals. The friendly bartender competition and subsequent outings add depth to their evolving romance. The story, filled with witty dialogue and three-dimensional characters, explores the couple’s journey of overcoming past baggage for a happier future.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Review Card & Book Review – Not In A Billion Years By Camilla Isley

She’s a self-made fitness sensation. He’s a billionaire mogul. They’re sworn enemies and rivals… aren’t they?

Blake Avery knows all about hard work. She’s gone from making videos in her teenage bedroom to founding a booming fitness business and opening a state-of-the-art Manhattan gym. Now she’s on the cusp of realizing her wildest dreams, and she’s not going to let anyone stand in her way.

Certainly not man-of-the-hour Gabriel Mercer. He might be one of the biggest names in the fitness world and set women’s pulses soaring more than a grueling HIIT workout, but he grew up in a billionaire dynasty and had everything handed to him – or so Blake thinks.

But when Blake publicly criticizes Gabriel, she sparks a feud that neither en trepreneur is willing to back down from. And in an industry that seems determined to keep pushing them together, can Blake hold on to her grudge? Or will she finally warm up to Gabriel’s charm?

About The Author

My Review

Blake Avery, deeply committed to health and wellness, attained success through hard work, dedication, exercise videos, social media, and word of mouth. On the flip side, Gabriel Mercer, a billionaire mogul with a keen interest in real estate and money-making, moved from a privileged upbringing to making a mark in the fitness world post-college. When their paths cross, assumptions arise, unveiling hidden facets about each other.

Blake Avery stands out as a captivating figure, while Gabriel, despite some questionable behavior, defends his actions from his own viewpoint. Blake, however, holds him accountable, resulting in a humorous scene that elicited a chuckle – those in the know understand!

This story unfolds as an enemies-to-lovers tale, featuring two people who initially see themselves as complete opposites but ultimately discover surprising commonalities. The business elements introduce a clever and enjoyable layer to the narrative, brimming with humor and just the right amount of sizzle and spice.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Review Card & Book Review – The Gingerbread House in Mistletoe Gardens By Jaimie Admans

In Mistletoe Gardens a legend exists: anyone who kisses underneath the mistletoe will be guaranteed another year of love…

When local baker Essie Browne discovers that Mistletoe Gardens is to be demolished in January, she’s determined to save the place she loves so much. So Essie proposes building a life size gingerbread house to bring in the crowds…just how hard can it be?

Well, quite hard actually. Essie can bake gingerbread blindfolded, but she hasn’t got a clue how to build an actual house with it! She needs help – and fast!

Enter local builder, Joss Hallissey. Essie is convinced that with Joss’s help they can pull this off. There’s just one tiny problem: Joss hates Christmas, gingerbread, and… well, just about everything else too.

Joss the Grinch makes it clear that her idea is ludicrous and pointless, but he reluctantly agrees to help with her plan.

Will the gingerbread house be enough to save Mistletoe Gardens? Or will Essie’s chance for a magical kiss under the mistletoe be lost forever?

About The Author

My Review

In this delightful festive narrative, Essie and Joss embark on the whimsical endeavor of constructing a real-life gingerbread house to safeguard Mistletoe Gardens from potential loss. Despite the lighthearted premise, the imminent threat to Essie’s Welsh village infuses their task with urgency. The sparks between Essie and the initially gruff Joss ignite from the start, yet the author skillfully postpones their romantic involvement, emphasizing the organic growth of their friendship. The mystery surrounding Joss’s reluctance to deepen their connection adds intricate layers to his character.

The essence of Christmas is beautifully captured through festive elements, and the delightful addition of gingerbread facts at the onset of each chapter enhances the seasonal charm. The imaginative plot revolves around constructing a shed-like gingerbread creation, reminiscent of Hansel and Gretel’s witch’s house. As characters jeopardize Mistletoe Gardens, Essie’s steadfast patience and the endearing quirks of the villagers contribute to the story’s overall charm. Essie’s kindness and understanding unravel Joss’s tragic past, revealing the benevolent and compassionate man beneath the surface. The narrative unfolds with endearing characters, such as Mr. Arkins in his dino-suit and the Mystical Magical Magi dispensing magical potions and sage advice. Alongside a charming grand gesture, the novel is enriched with fascinating gingerbread facts and imaginative methods for constructing a large gingerbread house.

My Rating

Link to Purchase

Review Card & Book Review – The Cottage at Clamshell Bay By Sara Jane Bailey

In the charming Pacific Northwest town of Clamshell Bay, as the ocean turns from glittering blue to stormy grey, Libby Brown and her three best friends settle around her kitchen table. With a plate of chocolate chip cookies and fresh coffee, Libby lets her tears fall freely as the women listen to her heartbreak.

Libby’s life seems picture-perfect. She lives in her dream home, raising two precious children and supported by her loving husband, Victor. Sure, he’s away a lot with his job, but she has always accepted that he works hard to make their beautiful life possible.

But then, one day, Victor asks for a divorce, and suddenly Libby’s whole world falls apart.

Libby never expected to find herself a single mom, and when she receives a letter from the bank, it’s clear that Victor hasn’t been paying the mortgage. Her husband has been keeping secrets from her, and this isn’t the only one.

Desperate to keep the only home her son and daughter have ever known and protect them from their father’s affair, Libby turns to her three best friends, local baker Cleo, former model Brooke, and painter Megan, for advice and comfort.

Supported by the three women she met in Cleo’s baking class, their friendship forged over sharing bread and secrets, Libby finds the strength to fight for all she holds dear.

As she marches into the bank one morning, she’s surprised to meet manager Jeremy O’Toole. He’s charming and, just like her, has found himself a single parent. He’s been struggling to cope since his wife died, leaving him broken-hearted with two rambunctious kids.

Libby must focus on trying to keep her home, but in trying to remake her life, can she help Jeremy rebuild his? Can two broken hearts heal each other in Clamshell Bay?

About The Author

My Review

Libby, a paediatric nurse and skilled grief counselor, faces the risk of losing her home after her divorce. Struggling to secure employment and facing foreclosure, she unexpectedly meets Jeremy O’Toole, a compassionate bank manager. Their lives intertwine when Jeremy seeks Libby’s medical help for his sick twin daughters. The story unfolds from both Libby and Jeremy’s perspectives, allowing readers to delve into their thoughts and witness their growth and courage. Amidst the challenges, a theme of friendship from the Clamshell Cove series emerges, showcasing the supportive bond among characters like Cleo, Megan, and Brooke. The novel captivates with its wonderful flow, encouraging readers to stay engaged. Emotional depth, genuine friendships, and valuable connections create a moving and motivating experience. “The Cottage at Clamshell Bay” stands out as a heartwarming story that brightens the day and charms the heart, leaving a lasting impression of inspiration.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Happy Publication Day – 26 April 2024

The Love Algorithm By Camilla Isley

At 28, with a Ph.D under her belt and a meteoric rise to head of Research and Development at Mercer Robotics, Reese feels her decision to put her career first has worked out pretty well for her. Sure, she doesn’t have many personal relationships to speak of, but she does love her team and they like her too.

So when she’s called to the Big Boss’s office and told she will be looking after his son while he does a rotation in her lab, she’s not thrilled that her hard work and achievements have boiled down to being a glorified babysitter – especially to a billionaire playboy with zero experience of mechanical engineering.

But then tall, blond Thomas walks into her office, and Reese realizes this assignment is going to be even harder than she thought. Because the CEO’s son is not only extraordinarily gorgeous, chiseled, and charming… he’s also on course to become her new boss one day, and so extraordinarily out of bounds. As the pair get to know each other, can Reese hold her nerve and her beliefs, or will she fall victim to the billionaire charm?

Review Card & Book Review – Lottie’s School of Dance By Annette Hannah

Lottie Daniels is dancing up the altar in Canada when she realises her whirlwind wedding is a big mistake. Chad isn’t the right person for her at all! And, in that moment, Lottie goes from dancing bride to runaway bride.

Much to her brother’s relief, Lottie decides to return to Bramblewood in the UK. But life has more surprises in store for her. After rescuing both a donkey and a little old lady called Doris – all with the help of a handsome stranger! – Lottie suddenly becomes a big part of Doris’s life.

From broken dreams to second chances, Lottie finally has a chance to rebuild her life. When her friends suggest she takes part in a dance audition she refuses point blank but it soon becomes clear that destiny has other plans.

About The Author

My Review

This book unfolds as a delightful and heartwarming tale leading up to Lottie’s impending wedding. Annette Hannah’s storytelling is entertaining, engaging, humorous, and romantic, showcasing her clear voice in the genre. The book emanates a warm sense of community, emphasizing loyalty and friendship, offering uplifting moments in a sometimes challenging world. Readers, whether familiar with Hannah’s previous works or not, can seamlessly enjoy this narrative. The diverse age range of characters, including vibrant older figures like Doris, challenges stereotypes and proves that romance is not confined to a particular age group.

The story is enriched by references to food, taste, and dance, with the vivid descriptions evoking strong sensory experiences. Despite occasional moments of tension, the overall narrative provides a respite and escapism, offering sheer enjoyment. Lottie’s character, who leaves her fiancé at the altar, quickly becomes endearing, and readers root for her happiness. The sparks between Lottie and an undisclosed character add a sizzling element to the story. Annette Hannah crafts a sumptuous and heartwarming novel, seamlessly weaving characters from previous works into a community that feels inviting and familiar. “Lottie’s School of Dance” is not just a book; it’s a gorgeous and engrossing experience.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Happy Publication Day – 25 April 2024

Love At First Knight By Megan Clawson

She’s no damsel in distress, and he’s certainly not wearing shining armour. But one knight can change everything…

Daisy Hastings has always thought she was born in the wrong era. So when she bags a summer job at the Tower of London helping to run their Knight school, it feels like a step in the right direction.

Theodore ‘Teddy’ Fairfax is a loose cannon. A disgraced distant relative of the royal family, he’s tall, dark and now (begrudgingly) helping with the Tower of London’s summer programme – and there’s nowhere he’d like to be less.

When Teddy’s oath to be an obstruction almost gets Daisy fired, she declares war. But as the two cross swords, they start to discover they both need a little rescuing…

Review Card & Book Review – Through the Snow Globe By Annie Rains

What if you could have one more day with someone you lost?

Diana Merriman, a physical therapist, is probably the only person in the small town of Snow Haven, North Carolina, who isn’t looking forward to Christmas. It’s been three weeks since her fiancé Linus was critically injured when a car hit him as he biked home from the toy store he owns and manages. Watching him open his eyes is the only gift she wants, but she can’t help losing a little more hope every day.

But an unexpected visit from a friendly neighbor and finding a snow globe of Snow Haven—a gift Linus had hidden in the closet—the night before Christmas Eve changes things in ways Diana never would have imagined. Because on Christmas Eve Diana wakes up to find that it’s not—Christmas Eve, that is. Instead, it’s somehow December 4 all over again, the day Linus got hurt, and as mystified as Diana is, she immediately starts a plan to save her partner from his fate.

Nothing is that simple, of course. Instead of a single repeat of that day, Diana finds herself in an endless loop of December 4, experiencing every possible variation of events. Along the way, she uncovers startling truths about herself, her relationship, and even her career that illustrate the ways she’s retreated from her life—and in the face of life’s slights and outright blows, from her deepest feelings. Suddenly hope is second only to joy as Diana opens her heart to the people she loves in every way she can.

About The Author

My Review

Diana faces a somber Christmas as her fiance, Linus, is in a coma after a car accident with an uncertain recovery. Devastated, she stumbles upon a magical snow globe hidden in Linus’s wardrobe. Unknowingly triggering its magic, Diana finds herself trapped in a loop, reliving the day of Linus’s accident. Driven to prevent his harm, she questions whether the repetition is merely to save him or if there’s a deeper lesson to be learned. The book beautifully weaves important Christmas themes—love, forgiveness, family, work-life balance, and more—into the emotional narrative. Despite the overall sadness and heartbreak, the story unfolds as a love tale, not only for Linus but also for Diana herself. The journey is incredibly emotional, evoking tears, yet it culminates in a breathtaking and beautiful ending—a hard-fought but ultimately satisfying romance.

My Rating

Link to Purchase

Happy Publication Day – 24 April 2024

Welcome To Hollyhock Farm By Georgina Troy

When Lettie’s parents call her and her brother back to Hollyhock Farm on the island of Jersey, the last thing they expect to be told is that their childhood home is up for sale.

Back on the island, with its rolling hills and golden sands, Lettie immediately remembers what it feels like to breathe in the fresh air in the green fields, and be part of this tight-knit community – a far cry from the life of events and high fashion she leads in London.

But she surprises even herself when she suggests that she instead could take over Hollyhock farm. Humouring her, her father agrees to give her a three month trial, and Lettie is determined to prove she’s up to the task.

But the summer season is no easy feat for a new farmer, and Lettie has a huge task ahead of her. And when an old flame reappears in the form of dashing local vet Brodie, Lettie’s summer is about to get even more complicated…

Finding Hope In Starshine Cove By Debbie Johnson

Lucy Brown has spent years hiding from the world, as far away as she could get from her old life – and her ex-husband – back in London. But when she reluctantly agrees to leave her safe haven to attend her old friend Ella’s wedding in Starshine Cove, little does she know what’s in store for her down in Dorset…

When a chance airport encounter with a handsome stranger unexpectedly leads to a deeper connection, Lucy finds her trip becoming much more than just a last-minute holiday. But then her dark past comes knocking, just as she always feared it would. Will the magic of Starshine Cove be enough to heal the hurts that Lucy has carried with her all these years, or has this one-of-a-kind village by the sea finally met its match?