Liv is given the chance to live one life-changing week over, but can she change her future…? And does she want to? A gorgeous, uplifting novel, perfect for fans of Shari Low, Paige Toon and Beth Moran.
When Liv’s boyfriend Kit disappeared on a hike, seven years earlier, she thought her life was over. But with the help of their family and friends, she’s pushed her way through the grief, and now, miraculously, she’s found a way to love again.
Until the morning of her wedding, when Liv steps through a doorway, and finds herself, somehow, back at the flat she shared with Kit: seven years earlier, six days before he left. Now, Liv has a chance to live those six days over, and change everything. If she gets this right, she can find out why Kit leaves and stop him.
But can she save him? And if she does, how will she choose, between the man she loved then, and the one she loves now?
For Beatrice, working at one of London’s boutique hotels is a dream come true. She doesn’t need a social life. She just needs an ordered diary, crisply folded sheets and happy guests. But Beatrice’s routine comes to an abrupt halt when her hotel is raided by the police and all the staff are arrested. Suddenly she finds herself released on bail, and trapped in London, with only the hotel chef Jock for company.
Having decided to make the most of their situation, Beatrice lets her hair down – figuratively and literally – for the first time in her life. And incredibly, despite the threat of possible prison around the corner, she finds she loves every moment spent exploring London in Jock’s company.
But all bubbles have to burst, so when the pair are released without charge, it’s time for Beatrice to get her life, and her career, back on track. She can’t let a little thing called feelings get in her way… So why can’t she forget Jock, even when her career dreams look set to become reality?
Beatrice may like to keep life fully booked, but can you ever really be too busy for love?
Beatrice enjoys a perfect life managing a posh boutique hotel in upscale London, excelling due to her perfectionist nature. Her world crumbles when the hotel is raided, and she is arrested as a potential accomplice in a prostitution ring operating out of her workplace. Awaiting the investigation’s outcome, Beatrice is released on bail and spends time with the hotel’s chef, Jock. Together, they explore London, and romantic sparks fly, prompting Beatrice to envision a new future.
After being exonerated, Beatrice and Jock part ways to pursue new careers. As Beatrice builds her new life, she repeatedly reflects on her whirlwind week with Jock and questions whether life should be more than just work. Will their paths cross again, or is life too busy for love?
The book starts strong, hinting at a future for Beatrice and Jock, but loses momentum when they separate. The story then focuses more on Beatrice’s self-discovery than their romance. Despite fond memories, neither character takes action to reconnect, making the narrative frustrating and dull after the first quarter. Beatrice’s relationships with other characters are interesting, but the story feels disconnected from its beginning, slowing the pace.
The novel shifts from romance to personal growth, with an anticlimactic reunion. While Phoebe’s writing is vivid, the promising start fizzles into a less engaging narrative, focusing on Beatrice’s relationships and personal journey rather than developing the initial romantic plot. Their reunion feels forced and unrealistic, given their lack of meaningful connection, leading to a disappointing conclusion.
My Sanctuary 