April 15, 2025 – My Sanctuary

Review Card & Book Review – The One That Got Away By Olivia Spring

What if the one who got away is really the one?

When Stella finds herself back home with a string of disastrous dates under her belt, she’s certain she’s hit rock bottom. Until she discovers her mother has signed her up to The Love Hotel: a luxury matchmaking service where a perfect love match is guaranteed! Stella is adamant she’ll have nothing to do with this nonsense! But then a match is found faster than she can say ‘Not. A. Chance!’ So, how bad can two weeks in the scorching Spanish sunshine be?

Very bad, actually. Because when Stella arrives, she’s mortified to learn her date is no perfect stranger. In fact she knows him a little too well. Because Max is the childhood sweetheart who broke her heart, who her heart remembers and who is more gorgeous than ever.

With no refunds, Stella reluctantly decides to stay and enjoy the holiday – all she has to do is keep Max at an arm’s length…right? Easier said than done when Max is impossible to ignore. And as the Love Hotel begins to work its matchmaking magic, Stella can’t deny that the sparks still sizzle between them. And maybe, the experts were right after all…

About The Author

My Review

This playful and spicy romance centers on Stella and Max, two former lovers who reconnect after years apart. The novel explores the idea that sometimes relationships fall apart not because of incompatibility, but because the timing isn’t right. Max ended his relationship with Stella when they were younger, and both have since struggled to find new connections.

Max’s best friend signs him up for a vacation at a hotel that promises a “love match,” while Stella’s mom arranges a surprise trip for her to the same hotel. To their surprise, they are matched with each other. What follows is a fun and steamy journey as they rekindle their romance, moving from resistance and caution to full-on sparks and fireworks.

The novel is filled with humor, charm, and plenty of sizzling chemistry between the two main characters. Olivia Spring delivers a light-hearted and enjoyable read, perfect for fans of second-chance romance.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Amazon

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Happy Publication Day – 15 April 2025

Greek Secret By Francesca Catlow

When Ruby arrives in Corfu, she’s greeted by a sparkling sea, hot sand and a new future. She’s ready to learn the trade at her Aunt Hazel’s taverna and she’s certainly not going to be distracted by Yianni, her handsome colleague, no matter how much they are drawn to each other.

Because getting close to someone again means facing up to her past—and the reason she was so desperate to get away from home in the first place.

But can she let go of the secrets holding her back, take a risk and put her trust in Yianni? And could making a new life for herself in Corfu finally bring her the happiness she deserves?

Review Card & Book Review- Hope Blooms In Tuppenny Bridge By Sharon Booth

The aroma of freshly baked chocolate and caramel cake wafts through the cobbled streets of Tuppenny Bridge, carrying with it the promise of new beginnings for café owner Daisy Jackson…

After years of putting others first, Daisy has found a place to call her own in the charming market town of Tuppenny Bridge. The Crafty Cook Café, her pride and joy, is a testament to her determination. But beneath her cheerful demeanour and flour-dusted apron, Daisy still carries the weight of her past.

As summer unfolds in the Yorkshire Dales, Daisy takes long hikes through wildflower meadows, gradually learning to leave her troubles behind with each step. When Daisy meets Noah Lavender, the kind-hearted local headmaster, they forge a connection that helps her more than any amount of cake therapy ever could. But it seems he’s not quite the uncomplicated Prince Charming she might have wished for – Noah carries a secret of his own…

Then, Daisy bumps into a figure from her past who forces her to confront long-buried memories. With autumn approaching, it feels time to take a leap of faith. But will the echoes of yesterday remind her that this new life is too precious to risk?

About The Author

My Review

This emotional finale to the Tuppenny Bridge series, is a powerful and moving conclusion that ties up various storylines from earlier books. Central to this story is the resolution of a plot involving a young man’s tragic death, with new revelations that bring shocking discoveries, particularly about relationship abuse. The novel explores deeper themes of emotional and physical abuse and its lasting impact.

The story alternates between the perspectives of two characters: Daisy Jackson, a newcomer who runs The Crafty Cook Café, and Noah Lavender, the local headmaster trapped in an unhappy marriage. Daisy, a kind and nurturing figure who has experienced her own traumas, forms a deep connection with Noah. Their friendship becomes a source of strength, especially as Noah’s secrets begin to surface, revealing the complexity of his personal struggles. Despite the emotional weight of these subjects, there are also moments of joy and romance, with Daisy’s café serving as a symbol of warmth and healing.

The novel skillfully addresses the darker aspects of relationships, while also providing a satisfying and hopeful conclusion. Fans of the series will appreciate revisiting familiar characters and seeing unresolved questions finally answered. The themes of personal growth, friendship, and healing are key to this heartwarming, yet thoughtful ending.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Amazon

Barnes & Noble