September 4, 2025 – My Sanctuary

Review Card & Book Review – The Forgotten Book Club By Kate Storey

Life can begin with a single story. You just have to Bring Your Own Book…

For three decades, Grace supported her husband Frank’s passion for books, despite not being a reader herself. Since his passing, their shelves echo longingly, and Grace’s heartache has only grown.

When Grace’s grandson suggests joining Frank’s old book club to feel closer to him again, Grace reluctantly agrees. Yet, upon arrival, she discovers this isn’t a typical book club: here, members settle in for an hour of reading… in silence.

Disappointed by the sparse attendance and confused by the lack of chatter, Grace flees. But when fellow member, Annie, convinces her to stay, Grace is determined to ensure that neither Frank – nor his beloved book club – are forgotten.

And as she breathes new life into the group, Grace might just find this is where she truly belongs. Because this next chapter of life could just be the beginning of her story…

About The Author

My Review

This is a heartfelt story about human connection, community, and self-discovery. At its core, the novel explores themes of friendship, overcoming loneliness, processing grief, and raising awareness about ADHD. The book club at the heart of the story is unlike any other—offering not just a love for books but a space for healing, purpose, and support.

Grace, the protagonist, struggles with grief after losing her husband, Frank. Though never a big reader herself, she finds solace in the book club he loved so much. Initially unsure of its unconventional format, she gradually embraces its unique approach and discovers the impact Frank had on others. As she learns more about his passion, she finds new purpose in continuing his legacy—expanding the club’s reach and incorporating ADHD awareness.

With beautiful reflections on friendship, literature, and mental health, this novel is a touching journey of healing and personal growth.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Amazon

Barnes & Noble

Kobo

Happy Publication Day – 4 September 2025

Meet Me Under The Northern Lights By Mandy Baggot

Can one kiss melt a cold, broken heart? ❄️💜

When career-focused Chloe Bellamy is sent to Iceland on a last-minute work trip, it’s her big chance to prove she deserves a seat at the top.

But there’s one problem, she may have embellished her CV a little… saying she speaks Icelandic when she doesn’t! And now, to add to her woes, she’s landed with no place to stay.

Gunnar Eriksson has a habit of saving people. First, when he rescued a young boy from a volcano and offered him a forever home. Then opening his door and welcoming in a spirited yet accident-prone Octogenarian. Now Gunnar has somehow tied himself to Chloe who needs all the help she can get but, for some reason, is reluctant to accept it.

Neither of them are looking for love, but under Iceland’s spell, and with a little extra help from those around them, something begins to shift. Could one kiss beneath the Northern Lights change everything?

Unyielding By Mary Sue Jackson

DECLAN

I’ve got one shot to prove I’m the right guy to take over the Poplar Springs vet clinic. No screw-ups. No distractions. Then Shannon Cafferty walks in. My best friend’s little sister isn’t so little anymore. She’s grown into a whip-smart, sharp-tongued knockout in boots and tight jeans—and she’s impossible to ignore. She needs help modernizing her operation. I need to win over the ranchers. Strictly business. Yeah, right. Every glance sparks. Every touch lingers too long. One kiss was supposed to get her out of my head. Instead, it lit a fuse. Now she’s all I want. But if I get this wrong, I won’t just lose her—I’ll break the one thing I was never supposed to touch.

SHANNON

The ranch is thriving under my brother’s leadership, and the trail riding program my sister handles is a huge success, but the horse breeding operation I run? It’s struggling. Badly. If I can’t turn things around, I’ll be letting the whole family down. Enter Declan Morris—my brother’s best friend, and the man I’ve secretly wanted for years. He offers help I can’t refuse. But being around him is dangerous. Every look pulls me in deeper, every touch threatens to burn through my defenses. Men don’t choose me. They never have. I’m the safe option. The one they lean on, not the one they fall for. So when he kisses me, it feels like a cruel kind of hope.And I refuse to fall for someone who might walk away.

Review Card & Book Review- Don’t Believe A Word By Susan Lewis

Here!

They raised her. Nurtured her. And lied about everything.

They told Sadie she was adopted.

They gave her a home and showered her with love.

But they lied.

Sadie was stolen.

They say Sadie’s making it all up.

But you shouldn’t believe a word…

About The Author

My Review

This gripping follow-up to Nothing to See Here continues the journey of Christy and Connor’s true-crime podcast, Hindsight. While spending Christmas in Guernsey with her family, Christy is approached by Sophie, a friend of Anna’s, who seeks help uncovering a long-buried mystery. After finding a story written by her late aunt, Sophie learns that she was discovered as a two-year-old, abandoned on a beach. Determined to uncover the truth about her past, she turns to Christy for answers.

Susan Lewis masterfully weaves suspense, emotional depth, and social commentary, particularly on the realities of human trafficking and how first impressions can be deceiving. While the main storyline is compelling, the subplot involving Christy’s digital stalker feels underdeveloped, hinting at a future continuation. Fans of the Hindsight team will enjoy reconnecting with familiar characters in this unputdownable read, and anticipation remains high for the next installment.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Amazon

Barnes & Noble

Kobo