Happy Publication Day – 3 February 2025

The Paris Bookshop For The Broken Hearted By Rebecca Raisin

Can you ever swear off love, in the city of love?

Coco is having a hell of a month. She’s lost her boyfriend and her business, been forced to uproot her daughter to move back in with her parents in Paris, and now an infuriatingly handsome stranger is yelling at her for acting like a tourist… Right underneath the Eiffel Tower.

Storming away from him – and swearing off men for life – she decides she’s going to take the first job that comes her way.

Then, as if fate hears her, later that day she stumbles into a little bookshop – but not any old bookshop. This one comes complete with a café, cocktail bar, reading room and secret tunnel of books, and just a little hint of magic in the air. So when Coco’s offered a job selling books there, it feels like the perfect fit.

There’s only one problem… propping up the bar in the bookshop is none other than the grumpy, gorgeous stranger she’d met earlier that day…

Love’s Home Run By Judith Keim

Love isn’t a game… or is it?

Melissa Hendrickson is tired of being a good sport, one of the guys. She wants to find love and settle down in Lilac Lake with the man of her dreams. She thinks she’s found the man, but he doesn’t know she exists. After she runs into Ross Roberts, her next door neighbor and former professional baseball player, during a charity softball game, he requires her help. She’s more than eager to make amends for causing him to have knee surgery. Then, a fire destroys her family restaurant and her job as chef there. She’s forced to think about a lot of changes in her life, including finding the right man for her.

A spinoff book from the Lilac Lake Inn series, a sweet second-chance, small-town romance. Another of Judith Keim’s books with strong women facing challenges and finding love and happiness along the way.

Review Card & Book Review – I Hate Rock Stars By Mia McCoy

I follow the rules. He breaks them. Rule #1: Don’t kiss, no matter what he says about the way you eat an ice cream cone. 

My dream is to get a promotion at Melody Bay Animal Shelter. So my new intern should help me get the promotion, right? Shoulder some workload? Make some killer coffee? 

Wrong. 

Unfortunately, my new intern is Nate Hart. Rock god extraordinaire. The local who finally returned. The local everyone loves. 

Apparently, his bad boy shenanigans caught up with him—a judge appointed him to do community service at our animal shelter. Although what he did is a Big Secret. 

Whatever. 

You see, I know Nate. He was my first kiss in school. A forbidden kiss I try to forget. 

But as much as I try to tame my feelings, the wilder they grow…

They hit code-red when my boss assigns us on a road trip to pick up a traumatized dog. Of course, the motel room only has one bed. So what if it leads to the hottest, most physically creative night of my life? So what if I’ve never felt anything like this before? 

The question remains: Is it true love, or is a second chance romance like teaching an old dog new tricks?

About The Author

My Review

This is a contemporary romance novel that dives into the tumultuous world of fame, music, and unexpected love. The story centers around Bev who harbors a deep-seated aversion to rock stars due to past experiences. Her life takes a surprising turn when she crosses paths with a charismatic rock star who challenges her preconceived notions.

The author crafts a compelling narrative filled with emotional depth and witty dialogue. Bev’s journey is marked by personal growth, as she learns to confront her fears and past traumas while navigating the complexities of a relationship with someone from the very world she despises. Nate’s interest is portrayed with layers, showing vulnerability beneath the public persona.

The book’s strength lies in its character development and the chemistry between the main characters. Their interactions are both fiery and tender, creating a dynamic that keeps readers engaged. McCoy’s exploration of themes such as trust, forgiveness, and the impact of fame adds a layer of realism to the romantic plot.The pacing is well-balanced, with a mix of dramatic and heartfelt moments that maintain the reader’s interest. This is a captivating read for fans of contemporary romance who enjoy stories of love found in unexpected places. It’s a testament to the idea that sometimes, the people we least expect can change our lives in the most profound ways.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Review Card & Book Review – Happy Days Ahead In The Cornish Village By Sarah Hope

Life begins outside your comfort zone…

Book-keeper Megan has always lived life by a set of very rigid rules, but with impending divorce papers on the horizon, she throws herself into a new challenge.

She finds solace and purpose in her volunteer work at a dogs’ home but with finances tight, and soon-to-be ex-husband Lyle controlling her purse strings, she might have to trade the work for something more permanent.

But spending her time in the fresh countryside air, Megan discovers a glimmer of hope for a new beginning, finding strength, love, and the promise of a brighter tomorrow – and maybe, even possibly, a new romance.

About The Author

My Review

This is a heartwarming novel that captures the charm and warmth of village life in Cornwall. The story follows Megan, who moves to a picturesque Cornish village seeking a fresh start and a sense of belonging. The small village atmosphere is portrayed with authenticity, complete with friendly locals, community events, and the occasional gossip.The main characters are well-developed, with relatable struggles and growth throughout the story. Megan’s journey of self-discovery and finding happiness is engaging and inspirational. Themes of friendship, resilience, and new beginnings are woven seamlessly into the narrative.

Sarah Hope’s writing is warm and inviting, making it easy to get lost in the story. The pacing is steady, allowing readers to savor the moments and developments in the protagonist’s life.Overall, it is a delightful read for anyone who enjoys feel-good stories set in charming locales. It’s a testament to the power of community and the joy of finding one’s place in the world.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Happy Publication Day – 1 February 2025

Revenge Puck By L.A. Hart

After Elle Townsend is dumped by her hockey star boyfriend Christian Riley on the eve of the championship playoffs, she devises a plan for sweet revenge—a fake romance with Christian’s arch-rival. 

Preston Lawrence takes his hockey career very seriously because brawling on the ice is the only thing he’s good at. With the championship trophy and his contract extension on the line, he needs to figure out a way to control his temper that always flares and gets him ejected whenever he faces his rival. So, when a heartbroken blonde asks Preston for a photo with him to try to make Christian jealous, he raises the stakes. 

Known for avoiding the spotlight, Preston kisses Elle in front of a crowd of sports reporters, certain the video will go viral. Their “fake” kiss felt a little too real for Elle and Preston. It looks real to Christian too, who goes ballistic when he sees Elle in the stands wearing Preston’s jersey, and holding up a sign that insults the size of Christian’s “stick.” Infuriating Christian helps Preston keep his head in the game so his team could win game one of four. 

That’s why he suggests to Elle that they keep up their charade through the championships. Christian and Preston have a complicated history. 

Their rivalry intensifies further when they begin to fight over Elle. As Elle and Preston grow closer, secrets unravel, causing Elle to question if Preston’s feelings are genuine or just a part of his revenge plot against Christian. 

Will Preston be able to convince Elle that his feelings for her are real, or will Christian find a way to win her back? 

Review Card & Book Review- An Island Promise By Kate Frost

Three friends, one Balearic promise and a summer that could change their lives forever…

For twenty-one-year-old Belle Madden her first holiday to Ibiza with best friends Gem and Laurie was memorable for all the right reasons: partying the night away, planning a future filled with big dreams and making a promise to return in ten years to celebrate living their best lives – hopefully…

Fast forward a decade and Belle is desperate for a change. Eager to escape her relationship troubles, she jumps at a job opportunity that takes her back to the White Isle.

Despite loving island life and her new job, Belle realises something is missing. With their busy lives the three friends have drifted apart, their friendship fractured. Remembering their promise to return, Belle seizes the opportunity to organise a reunion holiday.

After the initial excitement of being back together in Ibiza, cracks start to appear. A lot can change in ten years. Dreams can be shattered, love lost and hope destroyed. And when secrets are revealed, long suppressed emotions begin to unravel…

Will Belle repeat her past mistakes or can a second chance summer be the beginning of a happy-ever-after for friendship as well as love?

About The Author

My Review

This book takes readers on a nostalgic and emotional journey to the picturesque island of Ibiza. The novel’s vibrant descriptions of the island capture its dual essence: the lively nightlife and serene beaches. The story revolves around Belle, who escapes to Ibiza for a dream job, hoping to find fulfillment beyond her career success. She invites her best friends, Gem and Laurie, to join her in recreating their past fun.

The characters are well-developed, each grappling with personal dilemmas and growth. The narrative’s pacing is steady, blending moments of introspection with lively interactions. The book’s strength lies in its exploration of friendship, love, and self-discovery, set against the backdrop of a beautiful island.

Overall, this is a heartwarming and engaging read, perfect for those who enjoy stories about friendship, second chances, and the magic of new beginnings.

My Rating

Link To Purchase