September 29, 2025 – My Sanctuary

Sunshine, Sisterhood, and Second Chances 💃🏻✨

At the ripe (and fabulous) age of 64, Joanna Dawson finds herself seeking a new adventure. Her husband, Greg, has run off with a TBT (thin, blonde, trollop, obviously), her kids have flown the nest, and her social calendar is emptier than her wine rack.

As Jo’s 65th birthday looms, she’s left wondering: Is this it?

Enter Susie, her best friend, with an offer Jo can’t quite refuse: an all-expenses-paid trip to Italy to honour their late friend Ellen. Jo’s not sure she wants to go all the way to Italy, but with nothing else to do and if only to make Susie happy, she agrees. A holiday is a holiday after all.

Capri is even more gorgeous than Jo imagined and soon she and Susie are having the time of their life, especially as Jo is reunited with her dashing first love, Paulo. The one who, most definitely, got away…

Things might have fizzled with Paulo decades ago, but in the land of sun, pasta, and far too much wine, Jo begins to wonder: Could this be her second chance at life…and amore?

About The Author

My Review

This is a wonderfully uplifting and life-affirming story that celebrates friendship, fresh starts, and the enduring magic of romance—no matter your age. Maddie Please whisks readers away to the stunning shores of Capri with Jo and Susie, two women rediscovering joy and purpose in the most delightful way.

After years of routine, Jo and Susie take a leap into the unknown with a sun-drenched escape that quickly becomes more than just a getaway. What unfolds is a charming blend of laughter, healing, and unexpected romance, all wrapped in the beauty and warmth of Italy. Paulo and his eccentric family bring added charm and hilarity, keeping the story lively and full of heart.

The author’s writing shines with humor, compassion, and a deep understanding of women at midlife who are ready to embrace the next chapter. Perfect for fans of feel-good fiction with mature heroines, The Dolce Vita Divas is a joyful celebration of love, friendship, and second chances.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

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NO STRINGS UNTIL…

Midwife Pippa has sworn off romance. She tried the marriage-and-children path once, and it was devastating. So she’s stunned by the ferocity of her attraction to the head of department, Lachlan! And as they bond over their mutual avoidance of commitment, the flames between them only burn brighter. Giving birth to the “three-date rule”! Three dates, no expectations—then they return to being friends and coworkers. But you know what they say about best-laid plans… Because it’s soon clear that Pippa and Lachlan’s chemistry threatens to tempt them into breaking their relationship rules…

About The Author

My Review

This is a tender and emotionally layered friends-to-lovers romance that delivers heart, depth, and real-life stakes. Pippa, a midwife guarding her heart after a painful divorce, and Lachlan, a doctor burdened by the fear of a hereditary disease, are both commitment-averse. Their mutual attraction leads to a no-strings-attached “three-date rule,” a seemingly safe arrangement—until an unexpected pregnancy forces them to confront their deepest fears and desires.

Roberts does a brilliant job exploring vulnerability, choice, and the courage it takes to embrace love when the future is uncertain. Pippa and Lachlan’s chemistry is undeniable, and their emotional growth throughout the story feels both authentic and rewarding.

This is a wonderful pick for fans of workplace romances with real emotional stakes, rich character development, and a satisfying blend of romance and realism.

My Rating