June 2025 – Page 3 – My Sanctuary

Review Card & Book Review- Perfect (Mis) Match By Leslie North

I’m not one for holding grudges. But when Vincent Forde, billionaire perfume tycoon, crashes his shiny overpriced car into mine? Yeah, I’m holding that grudge.

His flashy car, tailored suit, and brooding glare—everything about him screams entitled bosshole. And then he acts like it’s my fault! Seriously, who does this arrogant, sculpted devil think he is?

He covers the damages—but with a request that has me fuming—and I figure that’s the last I’ll ever see of Mr. Rich and Ridiculous.

Except, of course, it’s not. Guess who struts into my stepbrother’s engagement party like he owns the place? Yeah, it’s Mr. I’m-Too-Sexy-To-Drive-Properly, lounging by the bar like he’s posing for GQ. I think I hate him.

Only now, there’s something he wants from me. There’s a rare perfume ingredient he desperately needs. And Lord of the Scowl is willing to pay me ridiculous money to help get it. Oh and he also wants me to pretend to be his girlfriend. As if there’s anything remotely boyfriend-material about him.

This is a recipe for chaos. A perfect (mis)match. We’re like a car crash in slow motion. Sure, he revs up emotions I’d rather keep in neutral, but I’m not getting pulled in by that confident grin or those striking cheekbones.

Except… the more we pretend, the harder it is to remember it’s all fake. And I’m starting to wonder if I’m the only one wishing it was real.

About The Author

My Review

Perfect (Mis)Match is a captivating romance that follows the unlikely pairing of Piper Doyle, a talented photographer, and Vincent Forde, a wealthy and demanding CEO. Their relationship starts off disastrously when Piper accidentally damages Vincent’s prized Bugatti, and it’s marked by tension as they are forced to work together on a major project. The plot takes a twist when Vincent convinces Piper to fake a relationship to impress his father and secure a business deal. As they spend more time together, they start to see each other in a new light, with Piper discovering Vincent’s kind side and Vincent realizing Piper is a strong, independent woman with her own ambitions.

The novel excels at portraying the evolution of their relationship, transitioning from enemies to lovers with witty banter and chemistry. It also explores deeper themes, such as the pursuit of one’s passions, family dynamics, and the competitive nature of the business world. Overall, Perfect (Mis)Match is a heartwarming, engaging read that will resonate with fans of contemporary romance.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Amazon

Barnes & Noble

Happy Publication Day – 20 June 2025

Coming Home To Maple Tree Lodge By Alison Sherlock

A family and hotel in desperate need of help…

Maple Tree Lodge Hotel has been home to the Jackson family for over a century. Following the sudden loss of his father, architect Ben Jackson discovers the hotel is close to financial ruin and if the hotel is to survive and his family are to keep a roof over their heads, tough decisions need to be made.

With the hotel in urgent need of a renovation, Ben’s sister enlists the talents of cash strapped, best friend and interior designer Lily Watson. Lily jumps at the chance to showcase her talents and to prove to herself and her high-achieving parents that she can carve herself a successful career doing what she loves.

However, Lily’s vision for a cosy, country Cotswolds hotel is the complete opposite to what Ben has in mind for a minimalistic, modern makeover and fireworks ensue!

Can they work together to save Maple Tree Lodge?
Can Lily help Ben and his family find a future together?
And can Ben show Lily that there’s more to life than work?

As autumn begins to weave its magic spell, perhaps Lily will discover somewhere to finally call home and find a reason to stay …

The Village Midwife By Tilly Tennant

Welcome to Thimblebury, the charming stone village nestled in the rolling hills of the Lake District, where midwife Zoe is hoping for a bright new beginning…

When midwife Zoe Padbury moves into Kestrel Cottage, high on a misty hill above the village of Thimblebury, everyone rallies round to make sure she doesn’t feel lonely. And as she begins her job at the doctor’s surgery, dealing with expectant mums and helping to bring newborns into the world, warmth begins to flood back into her battered and broken heart.

But the evenings are long and as Zoe sits on her cornflower-blue sofa, looking at the golden peaks crowned by clouds, she can’t help but wish she had someone to share her new life with. Her ex-husband treated her badly, but it’s still hard to resist his warm and loving messages begging for a second chance.

Distraction arrives when she meets Alex out walking his shaggy grey dog, and discovers that he will be moving in next door. As she chats to Alex, Zoe finds it hard to ignore his thick dark hair and eyes the colour of chocolate, and her heart clenches at the worried frown that creases his brow.

She soon learns why Alex is anxious when she pays his pregnant daughter a home visit and learns of the tragedy that has brought them to Thimblebury. Zoe is no stranger to sadness, and as she and Alex lean on each other, a tentative spark begins to flicker.

But when Alex gets the wrong idea and thinks Zoe has betrayed his trust, followed by Zoe’s ex appearing on her doorstep, swearing he’s a changed man, will that spark be snuffed out? Coming to the Lake District was meant to be a fresh start for Zoe. But what if the pull of her old life is too overwhelming to resist?

Review Card & Book Review – Tracking Down The Lawman’s Son By Delores Fossen

A lawman will cross every line

To bring his missing baby home

When Bree McCullough narrowly escapes an attack on her life, Deputy Luca Vanetti rushes to his ex-lover’s side. But the worst is yet to come. When their two-month-old son is kidnapped, Luca and Bree must put their painful history aside and work together to bring Gabriel home. The truth could lie in Bree’s own past and her investigation into her father’s unsolved murder. As the violence escalates, Luca vows to protect Bree and their baby against an unseen threat…and a plot to silence them forever.

About The Author

My Review

Bree McCullough is attacked while investigating a murder, and her family, including her former lover Luca and her brother Slater, must protect her and her son Gabriel. As Bree and Luca work together to uncover the person behind the attack, they must also confront whether the attempt on her life is connected to her father’s murder or another case she was investigating. Their on-again, off-again relationship adds complexity to the situation, and they must navigate the danger while trying to protect their family. The story focuses more on intrigue and mystery than romance.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Happy Publication Day – 19 June 2025

The Forever Cottage By Jill Steeples

🌿 It’s never too late to follow your heart… 🌿

Tess Alexander lives an enviable life with her husband Charles, at Hollyhocks Cottage in the idyllic Cotswold village of Lower Leaping. Dreaming of their early retirement, Tess’s plans are dashed when Charles shares some devastating news and suddenly she’s left alone with only Barney, her adorable Beagle dog, for company.

Facing an uncertain future, Tess tries to reconnect with her old self. She begins to transform the neglected garden office into a beautiful retreat, the perfect spot for her to indulge in her long-forgotten creative passions.

However, a chance encounter with charming but down on his luck, Rob Templeton, soon puts pay to her plans, when she offers him the place to stay, sensing a kindred spirit.

With the support of old friends, Gina and Suzy, Tess must now step out of her comfort zone and embrace a different way of life, one that is filled with secrets, possibilities and second chances, if only Tess is prepared to take them.

With so many demands on her attention, will Tess find a way to follow her heart and discover her own happy ending?

A Place In The Sun By Jo Thomas

It’s never too late to find where you belong…

Thea knew the holiday house her late husband Marco bought in Tuscany wasn’t pristine. But when she relocates to Italy for the summer with her children, she’s shocked by how much work Casa Luna needs. And she only has six weeks to fix it up ready to sell! Her only option is to ask the tight-knit Italian community for help.

In return, Thea and her children become involved in the community kitchen, working alongside handsome chef Giovanni and three very competitive nonnas. Gradually, Thea begins to open up to the people around her for the first time in a long while. But just as she’s beginning to wonder whether this small Tuscan town could become a new place to call home, a surprise visitor turns everything on its head . . .

A Cornish Love Story By Cressida McLaughlin

The most romantic house in Cornwall has got a new owner…

Journalist Georgie Monroe has watched as it has been transformed into a high-tech glass palace, renovated by a mystery buyer.

When she’s invited to report on an event there, she comes face to face not only with her first love, architect Ethan Sparks, but also with their complicated past. Finding themselves trapped inside when the house malfunctions, Georgie realises that they — and the house — are still keeping secrets.

But have Georgie and Ethan left it too late to start again, or can they write the next chapter of their love story together?

Not My Greek Wedding By Sue Roberts

She might not be the bride, but could this wedding be the start of her perfect future?

Mia is reeling from a breakup with her fiancé. And now her best friend Tasha is getting married on the beautiful Greek island of Santorini – where Mia once planned on having her own wedding.

Arriving at the resort, Mia’s breath catches at the sight of the sun-soaked terrace and vases overflowing with pink and white blooms. And with guests like local hunk, Christos, walking around like statues of Greek gods come to life, there’s even more to celebrate… so Mia promises to put her own heartache aside and make sure everything is perfect for Tasha – especially as she’s the Maid of Honour!

But with embarrassing speeches, champagne corks popping everywhere, and guests getting caught up in the energetic Greek dancing, there are too many problems to tackle alone. If she opens her heart, can Mia and Christos make sure the day runs smoothly, and could she even start her own new love story in Greece?

The Floating Amsterdam Flower Shop By Annabel French

One fresh start. One unexpected encounter. Can love bridge the gap?

When Rosie leaves behind her ordinary life in England to open a flower shop on Amsterdam’s water, she expects nothing less than a fairytale.

Max, her handsome but brooding new neighbour, prefers to keep the world at arm’s length – and living on the houseboat next door, he’s not too thrilled about the new company.

As Rosie’s business blossoms, so do her feelings for Max. But Rosie isn’t sure she’s ready for a relationship, and Max is still nursing a broken heart.

Then a rival in the flower market threatens her dreams, Rosie discovers that the most beautiful things can bloom when you learn to go with the flow – and allow someone to stand by your side.

Review Card & Book Review- Love In Translation By Joss Wood

This could be their greatest adventure yet…

A stressed-out translator on the brink of a meltdown and a thrill seeker with a serious case of wanderlust find love outside their comfort zones.

Up until a few months ago, Rheo Whitlock had it all. Stability, self-confidence and a safe job as an interpreter for the United Nations… It was the predictable sort of existence she, as a dedicated homebody, had always dreamed of—the security she’d needed thanks to her nomadic #vanlife upbringing. But ever since an unfortunate “hot mic” moment threw her career into a tailspin, she’s been struggling—really struggling—with fear, anxiety and uncertainty. A calculated escape is in order, and Rheo knows just the place: her grandmother’s secluded hideaway in the breathtaking town of Gilmartin.

Except she won’t be alone, thanks to a random twist of fate…

Fletcher Wright lives for adrenaline, always chasing the next high. So when he learns he’ll have to share his rental accommodations with Rheo—a stranger, basically—he simply chalks it up to another challenge. It doesn’t hurt that there’s an immediate attraction between them, which neither can explain. Before long, they’re not just sharing a house and new experiences—they’re sharing a bed. But when it’s time for Fletcher to move on to the next adventure, he and Rheo will both have to decide—are they ready to take the biggest risk of all?

About The Author

My Review

Rheo’s career as a UN interpreter is interrupted after a hot mic incident leaves her anxious and unable to work. She retreats to her grandmother’s cabin for solitude, only to find her cousin has arranged for Fletcher, a thrill-seeker friend, to stay there too. Despite their contrasting lifestyles, Rheo and Fletcher quickly develop chemistry. As they navigate personal growth, family dynamics, and their evolving relationship, the book explores themes of self-confidence, facing fears, and finding balance. The story also touches on chronic illness and neurodiversity. The romance is slow-burning, and the setting is quirky and charming.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Review Card & Book Review- Stuck In The Country With You By Zuri Day

She’s packing her bags—and her baggage.

Ten years ago, Genesis Washington made a very poor decision. At the time, it seemed great. Fantastic. Explosive. But the truth is, your one-night rebound should never be your younger brother’s rival. And he definitely shouldn’t be someone who allegedly only slept with you to gain the upper hand—even if the sex was amazing.

Now Genesis is blindsided when the farm she’s inherited just happens to be right next door to Jaxson King, the regrettable one-night stand she’s still painfully attracted to. This man has aged like the finest of wines, and what’s worse, he’s now a thoughtful and responsible father. Good thing Genesis has a (*cough* long-distance *cough*) boyfriend. Well, sort of. It’s complicated.

Jaxson and his hotness should be easy enough to ignore. But when city-girl Genesis discovers there’s a serious learning curve to her humble new home, it’s Jaxson who’s there to lend a very skilled helping hand. With every problem that arises, Jaxson is seemingly making all the right moves—both on the farm and when things heat up behind closed doors. But, surely, that doesn’t mean he’s right for Genesis, does it?

About The Author

My Review

This is a charming romance about Genesis Washington, a city girl who inherits a farm next to Jaxson King, her past love. Ten years after a life-changing mistake, Genesis is confronted with her regrets and a rekindled connection with Jaxson, who’s matured into a responsible father. The chemistry between them is undeniable, filled with tension, humor, and sizzling moments. As they navigate their history and the challenges of country life, their bond deepens, creating an engaging and relatable story about love, growth, and second chances.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Happy Publication Day – 18 June 2025

We Both Have Secrets By Emma Robinson

What I’m about to say is going to blow our lives apart. But there’s nothing else for it. I’ve tried so hard to keep it from you, not wanting to cause you pain. But I can’t hide it any longer. You deserve the truth. But I don’t know if there’s any coming back from this. And I’m terrified you won’t ever forgive me…

There’s nothing as strong as a mother’s love. As I watch my youngest daughter stride into her new life as a student, a sob catches in my throat. It feels like only yesterday that my two precious girls were playing together without a care in the world. I sacrificed so much to give them the life they deserved and I’d do it again in a heartbeat.

Looking at my husband Robert, tears in his eyes, I realise just how far we’ve come. Our daughters have flown the nest and now it’s time to re-kindle our own flame. So, when our long-lost friend Lucy invites us to her Spanish villa, I jump at the chance.

But when we arrive, instead of it being a romantic break, Robert begins to pull away from me. His conversation is muted, he goes for long walks on the beach alone and then I find a crumpled note on the bedside table and Robert has vanished.

In that moment, my entire world shatters. My husband has been keeping a devastating secret from me. But in order to find out just how much it will destroy our family, I will have to reveal something that I too have kept hidden. And once my own secret is out, will my family ever forgive me for what I did?

Review Card & Book Review- Beauty An The Brooding CEO By Juliette Hyland

TALE AS OLD AS TIME…

Trekking through snow to a billionaire’s secluded mountainous estate isn’t what art conservationist Cora expected when she took the job. However, the chance to review Everett Winthrope’s private collection—fulfilling her father’s final wish—is far too tempting… And, despite his scars, the brooding CEO is even more so! As her boss, he’s completely off-limits, but that doesn’t stop Cora’s pulse from racing. Yet it’s clear Everett’s fortress hides more than just himself. Could unveiling who he really is help him step out of the shadows…and into a future with Cora?

About The Author

My Review

Cora, an art restorer, accepts a job cataloging the collection of Everett, a reclusive billionaire scarred by a tragic accident. While the job offers her a fresh start and a chance to uncover a painting her father pursued for years, Everett initially cancels her contract. However, a storm forces her to stay at his mountain retreat.

As they spend time together, both confront emotional scars from their pasts and strained relationships with their fathers. Their shared love for art helps them heal and build a deep connection, culminating in a heartfelt happily-ever-after.

This Beauty and the Beast retelling offers emotional depth, compelling characters, and a unique focus on art, making it an engaging and memorable romance.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Happy Publication Day – 17 June 2025

No More Yesterdays By Catherine Bybee

Taking over her late father’s company was never part of Alex Stone’s life plan.

But now, sitting in the CEO chair at Stone Enterprises, she’s resigned to living her life alone. Being a high-powered, billionaire woman tends to narrow one’s romantic prospects. As Alex works relentlessly to reshape her inherited hotel empire, she’s acquired a target on her back complete with death threats.

Alex turns to Hawk Bronson, a man who is equal parts bodyguard, sexy, and completely infuriating. Especially when it comes to protecting her.

As the danger escalates, Hawk comes to terms with the fact that their connection goes way beyond bodyguard and assignment. He knows he should keep his distance—his own dark past and nightmares put her at greater risk—but he can’t walk away. Protecting Alex means everything. Putting her life in someone else’s care isn’t an option once he’s tasted their passion and depth of his feelings.

As they navigate a minefield of family secrets, past pain, and unexpected hope, Alex and Hawk must face their deepest fears and fight for a future together. But first, they’ll need to unmask whoever is behind the threats—before Alex becomes their next victim.

The Fix up By Sharon M. Peterson

Ellie should probably have listened to the part where inheriting her house came with a hot, grumpy stranger and six months to figure it all out…

Ellie Sterns is a twenty-eight-year-old single mother who only ever seems to date seriously questionable men. But she’s just inherited both a home and thriving café, so life is looking up. The catch? Only half belongs to Ellie—the other half goes to the previous owner’s grandson. Gilbert Dalton may be absurdly handsome, but his frown never wavers and he has a chip on his shoulder the size of a small country.

Ellie would happily spend the rest of her life avoiding him, but to claim their inheritance, they must first live on the property together for six months. For Ellie, the house and the café are her future. For Gil, they’re part of a past he wants nothing to do with. She wants to stay, he is determined to sell. Will they be able to decide what comes next without going to war with Ellie’s whisk and Gil’s toolbelt for weapons?

The Pickleball Girl Finds Her Match By Rebecca Jasmine

In love and pickleball, sometimes the greatest risk is not taking one.

According to Endy Andrews’s devoted best friend, the crew of senior pickleballers she coaches, and the kids of the Picklers Youth Pickleball program she runs, Endy’s friendliness and charm can make everyone fall in love with her.

Everyone, except maybe the right guy.

But when Endy meets the handsome and intriguing Sebastian Hall at Whisper Hills Country Club, it looks like her miserable luck with love might finally turn around.

Although Sebastian is a former college tennis standout and Endy is the resident pickleball girl, it seems like a match made in heaven. That is, until Sebastian’s absolutely gorgeous, sophisticated, tennis-playing ex, Sloane, returns to Palm Springs on a mission to win Sebastian back.

On top of her blossoming romance being at risk, Endy is distraught when she finds that the country club’s tennis purists are threatening to dismantle the entire pickleball program at Whisper Hills and a lack of funding has her beloved Picklers youth league on the brink of collapse.

As Endy fights to save her community, Sebastian fights to prove to Endy that he’s her perfect match. Because for the first time since his career-ending knee injury, Sebastian knows for certain what he wants in life. It’s the pickleball girl.

The Puck Stops Here By Rachael Stewart

Karma comes to play…

When journalist Astrid Sinclair meets her kindred spirits at a snowed-in airport, she knows she’s found her ride-or-die circle—women with a lot to love and an ex they’d sooner hate. But hating’s no fun, karma is! So they hatch a plan to go after one another’s ex…

Astrid’s target? NHL superstar Aiden Carter—the man who traded his childhood sweetheart for the bright lights of fame, tearing her new BFF’s heart in two. Astrid’s plan? For the punishment to fit the crime!

Armed with killer heels, sexy specs, and an all access press pass, Astrid infiltrates the New York Titans as a journalist writing an exclusive exposé on Aiden and his twin brother, Blake. She’s got the charm, the wit, and all the right moves to get under Aiden’s skin. But there’s a snag—brooding, maddeningly irresistible Blake keeps getting in her way.

Astrid is here to break a heart, not lose her own. But when sparks fly with the wrong twin, she’s playing a dangerously different game…

Review Card & Book Review – Redeeming The Past By Linda Goodnight

Can repairing an old house…

Open the door to a new love?

To make amends for his misspent youth, bodyguard John-Parker Wisdom vows to turn his late foster mom’s property into a home for neglected teenage boys. Only there’s a catch—unexpected co-heir Zoey Chavez. The pretty widow needs the house proceeds to support her children, and she won’t let a former bad boy stand in her way. Now they have three months to agree on a plan or forfeit their shared inheritance. But when John-Parker’s past complicates things as the deadline looms near, will they risk everything for a chance at a forever partnership?

About The Author

My Review

In Redeeming the Past, John-Parker returns to his hometown after 15 years to surprise his foster mother but learns she has passed away. To his surprise, her house is now occupied by Zoey and her two children. Tensions rise when they discover the house and inheritance are shared between them, with the condition that they must work together for three months to renovate the house and agree on its future.

Suspicious of each other’s intentions, John-Parker questions Zoey’s involvement in the inheritance, while Zoey resents his sudden reappearance after years away. Both carry personal struggles and secrets, making their collaboration even more challenging. However, as they spend time together, their barriers begin to fall. Yet, trust remains a challenge—especially when Zoey fears exposing her children to potential heartbreak and John-Parker wrestles with his own motives. Their journey is one of reconciliation, healing, and deciding whether their connection is worth risking it all.

My Rating