Monthly Archives: June 2024

Review Card & Book Review – Never Ever Getting Back Together By Phoebe MacLeod

Everyone remembers their first love. Jess Thomas definitely does. So, it’s more than a little awkward when Jess’s first love, Jamie Ferguson, turns out to be the best man at the wedding she’s catering for. And more than a little insulting when he doesn’t appear to remember her at all.

Since Jamie broke her heart (via text!), 10 years earlier, Jess has sworn off romance. And with a booming catering business to focus on, she’s doing OK. She has no interest in revisiting the past.

But when Jess’s car breaks down on a country lane, she has no choice but to accept Jamie’s help. Now, Jamie is determined to show Jess he’s a new man. But can guys like Jamie ever really change? And if she gives him another chance, is she setting herself up for a fall?

About The Author

My Review

The story begins with captivating banter and flirting, drawing the reader in with its entertaining narrative. Jess, the independent protagonist, encounters her first love, Jamie, at a wedding after 12 years of resentment. Despite their initial awkward encounter, Jess begins to see a different side of Jamie, leading to a reevaluation of their past misunderstandings. However, the story takes a downturn when Jess’s negative opinion of Jamie is reinforced by a misunderstanding, which feels like a forced addition to the plot. Despite the adorable presence of Jess’s child, Lizzie, her role in the story seems disconnected from the main narrative. Overall, while the initial charm of the story is engaging, the latter part is marred by contrived conflicts and character inconsistencies.

My Rating

Link to Purchase

Happy Publication Day – 13 June 2024

Escape To The Country Kitchen By Hannah Langdon

When Juliet Carlisle returns home to her family’s gorgeous, crumbling manor house in the English countryside, she doesn’t expect to stay long. But she’s intrigued by the new cookery school being launched on the grounds… that is, until she meets the guy who’s been hired to run it. Though undeniably handsome, disgraced celebrity chef Léo Brodeur immediately strikes Juliet as bossy and rude.

Juliet has enough troubles in her life without adding a snooty French chef to the mix. Her ex won’t leave her alone, her sisters are struggling, and their beloved home is literally falling down around them. Still, she promises to help make the school – their last hope – a success… as long as she doesn’t have to be nice to Léo.

But working shoulder to shoulder in the kitchen as the sun sets behind them, Juliet finds it difficult to remain frosty. Surrounded by the warm scents of baking croissants, fresh garden thyme, and Léo’s peppery cologne, she begins to see a side to the chef – patient, thoughtful and funny – that she never noticed before.

Just as her heart begins to thaw, Juliet discovers what really happened back in France, leaving her not knowing who or what to believe. Should she run away, or fight for the chance of happiness she’s found at Feywood? Or will old wounds and Léo’s mysterious past doom their blossoming kitchen romance for good?

One Of A Kind By Jane Lovering

A long-held secret, and a beautiful heart hoping to be understood.

Cressida Tarbet loves her job at an animal rescue centre, even if it means she’s resigned herself to scrimping to make ends meet – a lifestyle far removed from her best friend Ivo’s, in his ancestral gatehouse stuffed with antiques and art.

But although their upbringings were different, Ivo has held Cress’s heart ever since she clapped eyes on him at university. The trouble is – she has never told him. So, when a mystery and a baffling crime throw Cress and Ivo together, she can’t help but wonder if fate is telling her something.

As the puzzle takes them from beautiful Yorkshire, to the stunning Isle of Wight, the pair get closer. Ivo begins to understand the cause of Cress’s risk-aversion and she puts her irritation at his brilliant mind to one side as she starts to appreciate Ivo’s uniqueness. But then the unthinkable happens and their worlds are turned upside down, and Cress has to wonder if fate was calling after all…

Review Card & Book Review – Guarding Viktoria By Leslie North

When danger meets desire, all bets are off…

Viktoria Jonsdottir is smart, driven, and beautiful. But she’s also in danger. To protect her, her father has hired a bodyguard to look after her. But the last thing Viktoria wants is a babysitter, even if he is sexy as hell. Like it or not, though, she’s got Lee McCallister, former Army Ranger, keeping her safe. From what, she’s not really sure… Until the pilot hired on for her private plane attempts to kidnap her at gunpoint. Thank goodness Lee is there.

Lee cares only about one thing. Doing his job. And if that job includes keeping a rich brat safe, so be it. The former Army Ranger braces himself for days of enduring Viktoria. Demanding, lovely, kissable Viktoria. It isn’t long before he realizes she’s not the spoiled princess he thought she was. Despite his best efforts, he’s starting to fall for her.

And if they can survive this ordeal, maybe she’ll fall for him too…

About The Author

My Review

This book follows former Army Ranger sniper, Lee McCallister, who is medically retired due to an eye injury, and Viktoria Jonsdottir, the daughter of an Icelandic businessman aiming to prove herself in the business world. Lee is tasked with protecting Viktoria during her trip to New York, but their journey takes a dangerous turn when they face threats and attempts on Viktoria’s life. Despite initial impressions, Lee finds himself drawn to Viktoria, whose world is about to be shattered by betrayal. As they navigate danger and their growing attraction, Lee realizes Viktoria has changed his life’s direction. With action-packed scenes and intense chemistry, the story explores their struggle between duty and desire. The gripping narrative culminates in a satisfying epilogue, offering closure for the characters and their relationships.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Review Card & Book Review – A Christmas Miracle in the Little Irish Village By Michelle Vernal

Ava Kelly loves returning to Emerald Bay for Christmas. Snowflakes fall on the green rolling hills and mulled wine fills The Shamrock Inn with the smell of winter spice. But this year, the Kelly family is hoping for a miracle…

When twenty-four-year-old Ava Kelly and her adventurous twin Grace return home to The Shamrock Inn, their Ma’s favourite baubles bring back so many memories of Christmases past. They have always done everything together, even leaving their little Irish village for the excitement of London. But with the locket her handsome ex Shane gave her hanging just above her heart, Ava has just one wish this festive season…

After a year stuck in a job she can’t stand and going on dreadful dates, Ava longs to be back with Shane. Curling up in front of the fire with him, the brooding fisherman everyone else sees melts away as his blue eyes meet hers. But planning a future with Shane would mean telling Grace she’ll be moving back to the village for good. Ava knows it will break her sister’s heart for them to be parted.

But, before Ava can build up the courage to talk to her twin, terrible tidings about Shane hit The Shamrock Inn like a winter storm. With everyone but Grace rushing to the harbour, will Ava’s hopes for a future with both Shane and her sister in it be dashed? Or could a Christmas miracle bring them all together?

About The Author

My Review

This book follows Ava Kelly’s annual return to Emerald Bay, where she hopes to reconcile with her ex, Shane, amidst the festive atmosphere. As Ava and her twin sister Grace navigate their holiday visit from bustling London, the story unfolds with themes of redemption and new beginnings. Vernal’s heartwarming narrative captures the essence of Irish Christmas traditions and offers a charming tale of reconciliation and second chances, making it a delightful read for those seeking holiday cheer.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Happy Publication Day – 12 June 2024

Such A Good Family By Caitlin Weaver

An unforgettable and emotionally charged story of two mothers whose lives are changed forever by a devastating accusation – and how far they’ll go to protect those they love.

I was so happy when my son, Knox, began dating my best friend’s daughter. Our kids grew up together and we used to joke, as we sipped wine and watched them play, that they’d get married one day. But when Knox came home late after a party, zipping his hoodie up to hide the scratches I caught a glimpse of on his collarbone, a chill went down my spine.

That night, our whole world shattered. Now, I hardly recognize my husband as he sweeps into action, calling in a hot-shot lawyer to defend our boy.

I love my son, but what if I don’t know him at all? It turns out, everything I thought I knew about my perfect family is a lie. And I’m about to discover just what I’ll do to stop it from falling apart.

Review Card & Book Review – Take Me Home By Beth Moran

Sophie Potter’s job is helping people deal with the worst, because Sophie Potter knows what the worst feels like.

An expert at keeping moving, with her trusty motorhome and faithful dog Muffin, Sophie has built her life around keeping her loves and loyalties to a minimum.

Fabulous fifty-something Hattie Langford has kept her heart and past safely stored away too. But for reasons she’s only willing to share with a stranger, Hattie needs to tell the story her family has been hiding at Riverbend, their home in Sherwood Forest. There is a history of heartbreak and hurt that Hattie is now ready to face.

As Sophie helps Hattie uncover the secrets of generations of women who have lived at Riverbend, along with the stories of the men they have loved and lost, they start to see echoes in their own pasts. And as Riverbend shares its biggest secret of all, can Hattie and Sophie finally embrace the lives they’ve put on hold for so long, and risk giving their hearts to men who just might break the Riverbend curse?

About The Author

My Review

Sophie, having experienced profound grief, has built a business aiding others in the aftermath of bereavement. Her latest task, however, involves helping the alive yet secretive Hattie sort through memories in her attic. As their bond grows, Sophie considers her own fresh start, encouraged by Hattie’s supportive friends. The book expertly blends poignant narrative, laughter, and tears, delivering a fulfilling romance and compelling characters. Sophie’s journey, from grief to healing and romance, deeply resonates, while the portrayal of female friendships is both authentic and moving. With flawless emotional depth and superb storytelling, it is an enjoyable read to me

My Rating

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Review Card & Book Review – Starry Skies Over Primrose Hall By Jill Steeples

Homes don’t come much more idyllic than Primrose Hall. Set against the backdrop of the beautiful Primrose Woods, Pia Temple still has to pinch herself that she gets to wake up there every day.

Waking up next to Jackson Moody is pretty great too. Ever since the couple rekindled their teenage romance, they’ve become an unstoppable team running Primrose Hall’s packed calendar of events, surrounded by the friends and family who make up the crew at the hall.

But not everything is perfect at Primrose Hall. Pia is beset with doubts about the future, especially when a new arrival shakes everything Jackson thought he knew about his past. And as the events come thick and fast – a literary festival, craft fayres, bonfire night and the much-anticipated Christmas Carols evening – everything Pia is juggling threatens to tumble down around her.

Will the year at Primrose Hall be a time of endings or new beginnings…

About The Author

My Review

The book ends with a heartwarming Christmas gathering, ideal for a festive read. While revisiting Primrose Hall was enjoyable, prior knowledge of the series enhances understanding of character relationships. Pia’s reflections on her relationship with Jackson after a pivotal wedding set the tone for the story, but her uncertainties felt out of place in the Christmas theme. Despite this, the narrative explores community events and challenges, adding depth to the story. Subplots involving Jackson’s parents add warmth and complexity, contrasting with Pia and Jackson’s uncertainties. Despite some reservations, the book concludes with a satisfying ending, hinting at future installments. Overall, it offers a pleasant escape during the holiday season.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Happy Publication Day – 11 June 2024

The False Flat By Melissa R.Collings

Penelope Auberge is at her breaking point. With an overbearing mother, a married boyfriend, and a boss who gives Pen’s high-profile finance clients to male colleagues, it feels like nothing she’s accomplished in her thirty-two years belongs to her.

Determined to build a life entirely her own, Pen moves from Minnesota to Tennessee to open a solo financial business. There, she meets siblings Deanna and Grant, who attempt to coax Pen out of her socially anxious shell. Hesitant to open up so she doesn’t get hurt (again), Pen is slow to develop a friendship with Deanna, and she’s determined to ignore her feelings for Grant, which is difficult given she’s joined his cycling group and a clear something begins blossoming between them.

Pen’s path in Nashville appears to be smoothing out, but she soon learns that packing up her past isn’t quite that easy. If she wants to start fresh, she’ll have to decide what she really wants—even if that means riding away from her old life for good.

The Riviera House Swap By Gillian Harvey

Nina has always played it safe. But when her divorce papers come through on her fortieth birthday she decides enough is enough.

She’s always chosen the sensible route, staying in her stable job and marrying her rather boring ex. In fact – she realises – she’s chosen security over excitement for years. Ever since she refused to elope with her first love: beautiful, poetic, thoughtful Pierre, the man she met aged 17, on her French exchange. The only man who ever made her heart race.

Maybe it’s time to take a few risks?

Impulsively she goes online and finds another kind of French exchange… a house-swap. She can’t imagine what French businessman Jean-Luc wants with her terraced home in rural England, but she can’t wait to stay in his beautiful, spacious, bougainvillea-strewn villa on the French riviera.

She’s not just there for the house though. She’s decided to find the love she missed all those years ago. But will Pierre still be the man of her dreams after all this time?

Review Card & Book Review – Don’t Stop Believing By Freya Kennedy

Welcome to Ivy Lane, where hopes and dreams can become happy-ever-afters…

Erin Donohue would describe herself as happy. Well, maybe not exactly happy… but not unhappy either.

For the most part she loves her job as Head Chef at The Ivy Inn, working alongside bestfriend, Jo and making a home with boyfriend Aaron. Things are going just fine. Or so she thinks…

After a tough shift, Erin returns home to be greeted by silence. There is no trace of Aaron or his belongings. In that split second her whole life and world are turned upside down. It seems Aaron has exited the building and her life.

After a small pity party, Erin pulls herself together and starts to re-evaluate her life. Her friends seem to be chasing their dreams while she’s been left single and wondering what on earth her next move will be. But then fate throws her a sign.

Can she find the courage to build the life she always dreamed of but believed was out of her reach?
And can her bravery inspire other residents of Ivy Lane to take a chance on finding their own happy ending?

About The Author

My Review

The return to Ivy Lane and the reunion with its endearing characters was a joyous experience. Whether familiar with the previous books or not, this installment stands strongly on its own while still nodding to past events. Erin, the Head Chef at the Ivy Inn, takes center stage in a story that’s just as captivating as ever, thanks to Freya Kennedy’s skillful writing. Each character, old or new, is imbued with charm, making them feel like cherished friends. Erin’s journey of resilience and self-discovery, amidst the backdrop of Ivy Lane’s cozy community, offers universal appeal. While it’s tough to pick favorites, Harry’s memorable presence adds to the book’s charm. Like its predecessors, this enchanting tale engrosses the reader and leaves them eagerly anticipating another visit to Ivy Lane

My Rating

Link To Purchase