Monthly Archives: April 2025

Happy Publication Day – 16 April 2025

My Daughter’s Silence By Caroline Finnerty

When Charlotte Daly wins a scholarship to the prestigious St Thomas’s school, her mother Ali – who has struggled to bring Charlotte up as a single mum – is so proud. She hopes this opportunity will mean a better life for her clever, brilliant daughter.

Ali worries, however, that Charlotte is having a hard time fitting in with her new, wealthy peers. So when Charlotte is invited to a sixteenth birthday party by popular boy Ollie, Ali pushes her to go, hopeful that she’ll finally make some friends.

Just before midnight, Charlotte calls Ali to come pick her up from the party. She’s shaking and silent: it’s obvious something has happened but she won’t say what.

It’s only the next day, when Ali is at work, that she learns a teenage boy has been seriously injured. Then the police turn up at their house, wanting to question Charlotte about the events of that night. People are pointing the blame at Charlotte, saying the injured boy was last seen talking to her, before he was found unconscious in the pool.

As the investigation deepens, Ali finds that everyone has their own agenda and people will stop at nothing to protect their children – especially wealthy people. Only Charlotte knows the truth about what happened that night. Can Ali get her to tell the truth before it’s too late?

How To Fix A Broken Heart By Nicola May

Gracie Davies is at an all-time low. After a devastating loss, the last thing she needs is a colleague hinting over coffee that it’s time to lose her baby weight. Then her boyfriend betrays her, and her world totally falls apart.

Rebuilding her life from scratch – with the support of her free-spirited sister, an unorthodox therapist, and a feisty new friend – Gracie finally begins to get her mojo back. Add in a passionate fling with handsome landscaper Ed, a fairytale encounter with a Hollywood film star and the persistence of her adulterous ex, and life is anything but predictable…

Soon she finds that community, purpose, and perhaps even new love might be the perfect prescription for a broken heart.

But can a heart that’s been so utterly shattered ever trust again?

Review Card & Book Review – A Highland Family Affair By Lisa Hobman

Can people ever really change or are family ties always set to unravel?

After inheriting Drumblair Castle over her older brother Kerr, Lady Olivia MacBain has had to forge a new life for herself far away from New York and her dream career in fashion. She fears her brother’s bitterness has fractured their relationship to the point of no return and is still clearing away the devastation he left when he disappeared.

Kerr’s unexpected return and supposed change of heart raises eyebrows. He is now seeking forgiveness and to rebuild the bridges he previously wrecked, but can he be trusted, or is it all just smoke and mirrors?

While her friends are settling down, Olivia patiently waits for childhood sweetheart Brodie to propose and wonders if she will ever get her happy ever after.

Can Olivia find a happy future or are promises always made to be broken?

About The Author

My Review

A Highland Family Affair by Lisa Hobman is a heartwarming novel set at Drumblair Castle in the Scottish Highlands. Lady Olivia MacBain deals with the fallout from her brother Kerr’s past mistakes, while hoping her childhood love, Brodie, will propose. Kerr’s sudden return, claiming he has changed, adds tension, though he starts building a bond with a teenager named Will. The story focuses on Olivia’s relationships, offering a sweet, character-driven narrative with touches of humor, especially from the quirky Isla. Overall, it’s a light and enjoyable read, perfect for fans of family and romance-driven stories.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

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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

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Kobo

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
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Happy Publication Day – 14 April 2025

Catch A Falling Star By Laura Carter

It’s never too late…

Lyra Clarkson has built a career capturing other people’s perfect moments. She loves her work as a wedding photographer – despite her family’s disapproval – but she’s never quite found her own path.

Guy Walker, former rock star turned wedding singer, has hit a new low. Desperately needing cash, he’s agreed to take any gig his manager can get him, even if this new form of entertainment isn’t just singing.

As Lyra and Guy’s paths cross – in the most bizarre way possible – an unexpected kiss will change everything. But was it simply a chance encounter or is fate bringing them back together?

Now forced into each other’s lives for the entire wedding season, the unlikely pair may just figure out together how to realise both their dreams…

Review Card & Book Review – A Recipe For Christmas By Jo Thomas

Take one woman longing for the perfect Christmas . . .

All Clara has ever wanted is Christmas surrounded by loved ones, full of warmth and delicious food. So when her new boyfriend asks her to move to Switzerland, she can’t help but say yes! After all, what could be more perfect than Christmas in the Alps?

Add a dash of surprise

She quickly signs up for a chocolate-making course, imagining a workshop like something out of a festive advert. Instead, it’s chocolate-making bootcamp! And her boyfriend isn’t all he seemed either . . .

And enjoy a magical festive treat!

Despite it all, Clara begins to make friends – including the aloof yet intriguing Gabriel. With all of the ingredients at her fingertips, will she finally be able to whisk up her Christmas dream?

About The Author

My Review

This heartwarming novel by Jo Thomas follows Clara, a 40-year-old woman seeking a new start after losing her job. She moves to Switzerland to join a romantic interest and takes up a professional chocolate-making course, despite it being designed for experts. Clara’s determination and resilience help her overcome challenges, and her journey through the class becomes a metaphor for her personal growth.

The book is rich in vivid, mouth-watering descriptions of chocolate, and Clara’s character shines through her perseverance and support of others. The festive setting of snowy Switzerland adds to the fairy-tale charm, making it a perfect Christmas read. While the repetition of chocolate school scenes may feel slow initially, they become a comforting aspect of the story, showcasing Clara’s development.

Ultimately, the novel is filled with hope, joy, and emotional depth, delivering an uplifting and cozy reading experience, ideal for the holiday season.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Amazon

Review Card & Book Review- Love Is For The Birds By Diane Owen Prettyman

The Texas Gulf: beautiful yet unpredictable.

A beach town destroyed. Her mother’s candy store swept away. This is what Teddy Wainsworth faces when she returns to Bird Isle. Meanwhile, Jack Shaughness, owner of a popular barbecue restaurant chain and widower still grieving the death of his wife, receives permission to cross over to the island with a smoker full of brisket to feed hurricane survivors. Soon after arriving, he meets Teddy and immediately finds himself drawn to her—which makes him feel he is betraying his wife. When the two find a lost dog, Jack convinces Teddy to take it home while they attempt to find the owner, creating a bond that brings them closer.

In the wake of the hurricane, Bird Isle residents fear the Aransas Wildlife Refuge will not be ready for the whooping cranes’ annual migration south. Seeing that Jack has important connections and a love for the island, they enlist him to help restore the habitat of the endangered cranes before they fly to Padre Island for the winter. With their rescued dog always nearby, Teddy and Jack work side by side to rebuild Bird Isle for the return of the whooping cranes. But Jack is harboring a secret that may ruin everything he and Teddy are creating—and he won’t be able to keep that secret forever.

About The Author

My Review

Love is For the Birds by Diane Owens Prettyman is a touching story set on Bird Isle, blending themes of family, friendship, and romance. Teddy Wainsworth returns to her hurricane-devastated hometown, grappling with the loss of her mother and the destruction of her mother’s candy store. Overwhelmed by grief and guilt, Teddy finds unexpected solace in Jack Shaughness, a widower and restaurant owner, who arrives on the island to help in the hurricane recovery efforts.

Their growing friendship, fueled by the shared experience of rebuilding their community, quickly blossoms into a romance. Despite the accelerated pace of their relationship, it is a heartwarming journey. One of the standout elements of the book is its emphasis on bird conservation, particularly the restoration of the Aransas Wildlife Refuge for the annual whooping crane migration, adding depth and educational value to the story.

However, Jack’s hidden secret creates tension, testing their newfound connection. The novel explores whether Teddy can overcome this challenge, adding a layer of emotional complexity to the storyline. The depiction of community resilience and environmental restoration forms the foundation of this heartfelt and hopeful romance.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

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Review Card & Book Review – Into The Storm By Cecelia Ahern

ONE NIGHT

It is a wild night in the middle of December, and GP Enya is crouched over a teenage boy, performing CPR in the rain.

ONE MOMENT

The boy survives, but Enya’s life splinters in two. Trapped in a loveless marriage, the storm propels her to break free.

ONE CHANCE TO BE FREE

But even in the remote country town that becomes her sanctuary, Enya is haunted by the night in the rain.

Beneath the boughs of an ancient tree that tells a thousand stories, can she find the courage to face her own?

About The Author

My Review

Into the Storm by Cecelia Ahern tells the story of Dr. Enya Pickering, who, after saving a teenage boy’s life on a stormy night, becomes overwhelmed by emotional turmoil. Struggling with her strained marriage, a distant relationship with her son, and increasing anxiety, she relocates to a rural Irish village in search of peace. However, her fixation on a Hawthorn tree, or Rag Tree, outside her new home only heightens her unease. The tree, connected to healing and forgiveness in Celtic tradition, becomes a symbol of her unresolved emotional struggles.

Though the novel combines psychological tension, folklore, and personal drama, I found some elements disconnected from the central plot. Themes of family dysfunction, superstition, and mental health are explored, but the overall narrative didn’t resonate as strongly as Ahern’s previous works. Nevertheless, I appreciated the folklore aspects and remains a fan of Ahern’s writing.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Amazon

Happy Publication Day – 12 April 2025

Under A Riviera Moon By Helen McGinn

When a heartsick Maggie is sent on an errand by her mother to Cannes, she is keen to get it over with as quickly as possible.

She has been tasked with collecting a treasured box of photos from her late grandmother Elizabeth’s best friend, the impossibly glamorous Allegra Morgon who is desperate to tell Maggie all about the year she and Elizabeth spent in Paris. The sixties were in full swing, the air hummed with jazz, artists and students made the streets their own, and the City of Love was weaving its magic. And against this backdrop, two people were beginning a love story that would last a lifetime – but be over too soon.

As Maggie hears more about Allegra’s life, first in Paris, then New York, and finally on the Riviera, she is captivated and inspired. Was life always leading Maggie to this moment, this beautiful place so she could finally learn to stop living in the past? Because if she can, then another love story for the ages might just be within her reach…