Monthly Archives: October 2025

Review Card & Book Review- 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 …

About The Author

My Review

The story follows Lily, a driven interior designer whose life is upended when she loses her job and returns to help her best friend, Hannah, at her family’s lakeside hotel. There, she meets Hannah’s brother, Ben—a quiet, meticulous architect whose minimalist approach clashes with Lily’s bold creativity. Their design disagreements soon spark undeniable chemistry, turning friction into something far more heartfelt.

Amid the hotel’s renovation and charming community events—especially the enchanting lantern festival—the story shines with warmth and atmosphere. The lakeside setting, surrounded by woods and cozy fires, adds a touch of serenity and romance, perfectly complementing Lily and Ben’s growing connection.

Lily’s personal growth is inspiring as she learns to release family expectations and define success on her own terms. Ben’s emotional journey, shaped by his father’s passing and his protective bond with his family, adds depth and tenderness. With its endearing cast, small-town charm, and promise of future love stories, this is a beautifully heartwarming and uplifting romance.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Amazon
Barnes & Noble
Kobo

Happy Publication Day – 31 October 2025

Life Begins At The Cornish Cottage By Kim Nash

When life gives you heartbreak 💔, sometimes it also gives you a second chance… 💕

When Tom Sullivan returns to the quiet village of Sandpiper Shore, Emma can hardly believe her eyes. She hasn’t seen him since they played Romeo and Juliet in their school play – a lifetime ago, before real heartbreak, and long before she ever imagined life as a widow.

The last thing she wants is to relive the past, especially with someone who once made her teenage heart flutter. But when Emma agrees to put on a charity pantomime to raise money for the air ambulance service that helped her late husband, she’s thrown firmly back into Tom’s path.

As rehearsals begin and the local community rallies around her, Emma finds unexpected joy in bringing people together – and a surprising connection with Tom that feels far too real to ignore. Maybe it’s time for Emma to become the leading lady in her own life, not just for the show, but for herself.

Review Card & Book Review- Too Hard To Resist By Olivia Spring

Sparks Fly…but with the wrong guy?

Sammie Gordon knows of The Love Hotel’s infamous reputation for making happy ever afters a reality. So when she gets her coveted invite to the hotel’s exclusive resort in Italy she’s packed her bags before she’s signed on the dotted line. What could be more perfect than sun, sea, culture and… her perfect match?

Except Sammie doesn’t get the immediate flutters of excitement when she meets her date. He may be perfect on paper, but their connection is more lukewarm than red hot passion! And when he leaves abruptly, Sammie is left alone in paradise. This is a disaster!

But The Love Hotel always goes above and beyond for their guests. And so Love Alchemist Romeo steps into the breach to keep her company on all the planned dates and intimate dinners. In a professional capacity… obviously! When sparks fly instantly, Romeo knows he’s in trouble. With a strict no-dating guests rule, Romeo has to try and keep things professional. But like magnets, Sammie and Romeo are drawn to each other. Their chemistry is forbidden and so they must, at all costs resist the temptation to cross the line…

About The Author

My Review

This story follows Sammie, a woman struggling with self-confidence after years of criticism, and Romeo, a charming Italian hotel worker who seems almost too good to be true — handsome, kind, modest, and deeply devoted to his mother. Despite constant attention from others, Romeo remains humble and sincere, making him an instantly likable hero.

Their chemistry is electric, filled with steamy moments and secret encounters that heighten both the romance and the stakes of Romeo’s job. The hotel setting adds an irresistible layer of escapism and tension.

Sammie, however, was a more complex heroine. While her confidence and boldness can be refreshing, her brashness occasionally crossed into awkward territory, especially during a few cringeworthy exchanges. Her focus on Romeo’s looks and physical appeal sometimes overshadowed the emotional depth of their relationship.

Still, the story finds its heart in the couple’s determination to hold onto their connection. With its lush Italian backdrop and passionate energy, this is a sultry, feel-good escape perfect for fans of vacation romances.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Amazon
Barnes & Noble
Kobo

Happy Publication Day – 30 October 2025

New Beginnings For Christmas By Sally Page

A single Christmas can change everything…

This Christmas, Malcolm is determined to give his dearest friend Rev Ruth the perfect festive lunch – a heartfelt thank-you for her boundless generosity.

But when Ruth’s kind spirit turns their quiet meal into a community feast, Malcolm’s dreams – and nerves – begin to unravel.

As snow begins to fall, tensions rise with the arrival of more unexpected guests…

But new beginnings often come wrapped in chaos. If Malcolm can find the courage to open his heart, he might find the most magical Christmas gift of all…

Review Card & Book Review – Love’s Bloom By Judith Keim

Love can make even the most fragile person bloom.

Misty Owen escapes Florida and comes home to Lilac Lake following a disastrous relationship with an emotionally and physically abusive man. David Graham runs a landscaping business with his father and has created a memorial park in town for his sister who died in cancer. Kind, gentle, he is the sort of man Misty can’t help being attracted to. But until she heals from her past, how can she move forward? She knows it’s going to take someone like David to help her, but he’s content to be just friends. When gifts of flowers start to arrive with more than friendship, Misty discovers that sometimes love blooms in the sweetest ways possible.

About The Author

My Review

Misty returns home after escaping an abusive marriage in Florida, carrying deep emotional scars and constant fear that her ex may find her. Her teaching career is her anchor, and she finds solace in the familiar comfort of her sister Crystal and a tight-knit Friday night friend group.

Among them is David, a kind and steady man who runs a local landscaping business. He’s created a beautiful memorial garden in town for his sister — a space that Misty visits regularly to find peace. Though David is clearly interested in her romantically, Misty is understandably hesitant and guarded.What makes this romance so touching is the patience and respect David shows. He’s willing to move at Misty’s pace, offering quiet support rather than pressure. It’s this gentle persistence that allows Misty to consider the possibility of love again — not on someone else’s terms, but on her own.

This is a sweet, hopeful read about learning to trust again, surrounded by community and the healing power of nature. Love’s Bloom is a gentle, heartwarming story of healing, friendship, and second chances set in the charming town of Lilac Lake.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Amazon
Barnes & Noble

Review Card & Book Review- Coming Home To Sturcombe Bay By Susanne McCarthy

They were never truly over — and this time love might just get it right.

After ten years of globe-trotting, Cassie Channing returns to Sturcombe Bay to care for her ailing grandmother. Only to find herself face-to-face with Liam Ellis — the man she once loved and left behind.

Liam has moved on since the day Cassie left, or so he tells himself. A devoted single dad and respected vet, he’s built a life without her. But the moment she steps back into the village, old feelings come rushing back.

Liam’s determined to keep his distance — but the spark between them is impossible to ignore. And, as Cassie settles into village life and grows close to his daughter, staying away gets harder.

The more time Cassie and Liam spend together, the more the heat between them intensifies — but so do the unresolved tensions from the past.

With Cassie’s plane ticket booked to leave in six weeks, they both must decide if the love they never really got over is worth a second chance.

About The Author

My Review

Cassie and Liam were childhood sweethearts in the idyllic Sturcombe Bay on the South coast of Devon. They dreamed of attending university together and building a life side by side — until Cassie’s wanderlust took her away. With her Nanna’s encouragement and support, she chased her dreams abroad for a decade, leaving Liam behind.

Now, returning home to be with her ailing Nanna, Cassie is faced with emotional crossroads — including the unresolved feelings between her and Liam. He’s now a single father to the utterly lovable Robyn (a child so sweet, you’ll want to reach into the page and give her a hug). Cassie must decide whether to take a dream job managing a luxury resort in New Zealand, or finally put down roots in the place that first held her heart.

This is a beautifully written, easy-to-read story filled with well-drawn, believable characters. It’s a little schmaltzy in the best way — complete with not one but multiple weddings, a poignant funeral, steamy romantic moments, cute kids, and a few furry friends to round things out. The emotional tug-of-war between Cassie’s need for adventure and Liam’s quiet hope she’ll choose home is engaging and heartfelt.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Amazon
Barnes & Noble

RevIew Card & Book Review- The Pickleball Girl Finds Her Match By Rebecca Jasmine

Endy Andrews has built a life she loves—coaching seniors, running her youth pickleball league, and keeping her heart safely out of play. But when she meets Sebastian Hall, a charming former tennis star visiting Whisper Hills Country Club, their spark is instant and undeniable.

What begins as a whirlwind romance quickly turns complicated. Sebastian’s glamorous ex returns with unfinished business, and the club’s tennis purists are out to dismantle everything Endy has worked for—including her beloved Picklers program.

With her community on the line and her heart on the verge of breaking, Endy must decide whether love is worth the risk . . . and if second chancesare real both on and off the court.

About The Author

My Review

Endy, our heroine, felt overly childlike and whimsical. Her reactions — like giggling when a car speeds up or bouncing with excitement — gave off strong “Disney princess meets Mary Poppins” vibes. While she clearly cares for the kids she teaches in her pickleball class, scenes like one where Canadian geese fly overhead and a child grabs her hand in wonder felt overly sentimental and a bit much.

Sebastian, the love interest, doesn’t really interact with Endy until nearly 20% into the book, despite them being in the same orbit multiple times. Instead of building chemistry through meaningful conversation or shared moments, the story leans heavily on telling us they’re falling for each other — not showing it. I also found it repetitive how the book kept reintroducing who Sebastian was each time he appeared.

If you enjoy light, whimsical romances with a strong fairytale feel and don’t mind a slower pace or more surface-level emotional depth, this might work for you. But personally, I found the tone overly saccharine and the romance lacking in genuine spark.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Amazon
Barnes & Noble
Kobo

Happy Publication Day – 28 October 2025

Lost Alaskan Memories By Heidi McCahan

An unexpected homecoming
brings another chance at love.

For two years, mountaineer Max Butler was presumed dead after a tragic climbing accident in Peru…until his return to his small town of Opportunity, Alaska. But now a traumatic brain injury keeps him from remembering his former life and who he left behind—including physical therapist Hayley Morgan. Heartbroken after Max chose his mountaineering dreams over her, Hayley is determined to guard her heart against him, even as he steps in to help her with babysitting duties for his infant sister. As Max slowly regains fragments of his past and buried feelings resurface, can Hayley convince him to stay…for a second chance at happiness?

A Wyoming Family Holiday By Virginia McCullough

Can saving a town landmark…

Restore her faith in love?

When attorney Sloan Lancaster returns to Adelaide Creek to care for his father, he’s shocked at Winding Creek Rehab and Care Center’s run-down state. He considers moving his dad but is drawn to his high school crush Bethany, in charge of the facility’s restoration. Moved by Bethany’s community spirit and her adorable young daughter, Heidi, Sloan makes an anonymous donation to the center as the holidays bring them all closer. But when Sloan’s identity is revealed, Bethany pulls away, anxious about conflict of interest. Can she overcome her fears to embrace Sloan’s support—and build the loving family she’s always wanted?

Stupid Magical Love By Amy Boyles

Ever since the magic dried up in Mystic Meadows, Rowe Wadley has fallen on hard times. Her piggycorns aren’t selling, and the family farm is in foreclosure. Then handsome Pane Maddox comes knocking. His pitch: I’m here to save your farm.

The hottie isn’t exactly selfless. His own future is on the line. Competing to become president of a luxury hotel chain, Pane has sixty days to whip a struggling business into shape. Which is okay by Rowe—that means putting the privileged and smug city slicker to work. But Pane never guessed he’d find farm labor so fulfilling, or the spunky country girl so down-to-earth appealing. To Rowe’s surprise, she’s seeing a whole new side to Pane. His dazzling green eyes aren’t bad, either. Soon, sparks fly on the piggycorn farm.

Once this high-stakes bet is over, Rowe knows that Pane is moving on. Though saving the farm is a dream, Rowe fears that now she’s about to lose her heart.

Love Is A Four- Legged Word By Melinda Metz

GIRL MEETS DOG
Riley Bernard is living her best life. She recently landed a job at a resort in Sedona, Arizona, and her goal of working in all fifty states is well underway. Everything is going according to plan—until she sees a scrappy-looking dog limping along Highway 179. The poor pooch obviously needs help. . Unfortunately, adopting a stray is not part of Riley’s plan. She needs a plan B . . .

GIRL HIDES DOG
Determined to find the dog a home, Riley coaxes him into her car and heads to work at the High Sky Resort. She figures she can stash him in one of the empty guest cabins. But when she sneaks the pooch inside, she’s surprised to find it’s occupied—by a very attractive, nearly naked man,  Daniel Acker, who is instantly charmed by the scruffy canine. And by Riley, too . . .

GIRL UNLEASHES TROUBLE
With Daniel’s help, Riley tries to find the dog a good home—at the risk of losing her job. Her micro-managing boss has a zero tolerance for trouble.. And somehow, Riley seems to attract other animals that need rescuing, too, including an injured rabbit. But her biggest problem? The closer she gets to finding that trouble-making dog a home, the more she can’t bear to part with the furry guy. Or a certain human named Daniel . . .

The Best Christmas Choir Ever By Elizabeth Hrib

It’s a harmony of second chances, forced proximity and festive mayhem in this warm and bright holiday romance! 

Music was everything to professional soprano Charlie Ward…until her brother died, leaving her lost in grief. But when her beloved Gram moves into the Glendale Retirement Village, Charlie is cajoled into temporarily volunteering to direct the community’s new choir, their sights set on winning the Annual Christmas Choir Competition.

Only, the home’s activities director happens to be the super-cute guy she once spent a hot, hazy, sexy summer with. Julian Guerrero hasn’t forgotten Charlie Ward. Not even a little. Fortunately, he has his hands full with the lively residents who are determined to win, even if they must twerk their way to victory.

Amid mince tarts, gingerbread houses and Christmas lights, Charlie and Julian must find a way to transform their quirky singing seniors into a sensation. It’ll take hard work. It’ll take heart. And it’ll take just enough holiday magic to surprise everyone…Charlie most of all.

Her Cowboy For The Holiday By Makenna Lee

Can a little holiday magic turn liars into lovers?

Victoria Cameron isn’t looking for love—she’s too busy chasing adventure. Seeking an invite to a private art auction, Victoria doesn’t hesitate to crash Cade Whitley’s work event announcing herself as his girlfriend. When the “King of Dallas Nightlife” reluctantly goes along with her ruse, Victoria’s intrigued. Besides, it’s just a harmless fake date for one night.

Cade has no time for distractions, especially a carefree spirit like Victoria. But now their “date” has morphed into a Christmas weekend together to impress his boss. What starts as a charade becomes a weekend of undeniable chemistry—which suddenly, uncharacteristically, has this cowboy dreaming of settling down. But Victoria still craves freedom and change. As the holidays approach, can what started as a fake date move from a weekend to remember into true love?

Witness To Murder By Debra Webb

Just one look

…shattered her life.

It was worse than the date from hell. Teacher Leah Gerard waited hours for the man…until she saw his bloody body being dragged away. Did she imagine it? The police believe she did, as there’s no body to corroborate her story.  Then Leah becomes their prime murder suspect. Determined to find the truth, Leah hires ace investigator Owen Walker, who delves into every possibility while protecting —and captivating—Leah. But when her longtime roommate disappears, troubling questions and danger follow. Who wants Leah charged with murder? And who wants her dead?

One Night To Twin Surprise By Rachel Dove

THEIR CHEMISTRY HAS DOUBLE THE CONSEQUENCES!

Nurse Neve is determined to get her mojo back after her bitter divorce. Her plan? One night of no-strings passion! Outback helicopter doc Colton is the perfect candidate. But as her ex’s best friend, he’s always been firmly off-limits—which is now fanning the flames of forbidden desire! Their steamy tryst is everything Neve imagined…until she discovers she’s pregnant with twins! Yet Colton’s placement is only temporary. Can Neve trust that her nomadic doc will stay and be her family’s safe place to land?

Business Between Enemies By Louise Fuller

Taking their rivalry…
from boardroom to bedroom!

Freshly appointed head of her father’s company, Hennessy Wade is working feverishly hard to throw off her wild-child reputation. She’s still reeling from the news that her co-CEO is hatefully arrogant billionaire Renzo Valetti… Her face burns as she remembers youthfully—mortifyingly—kissing the devil himself!

Hennessy epitomizes the kind of recklessness that cost Renzo’s parents their lives. She’s impulsive, spontaneous…and a temptation he will refuse! Until an Italian business trip has him questioning everything he knows about Hennessy’s scandalous past… And reconsidering the line between disdain and desire!

Desperate Justice By Bonnie Vanak

His work is all that matters.

But one woman could change all that.

Rafael Rodriguez is determined to get his man. Especially after he narrowly escapes death on the hunt for drug kingpin Hector Hernandez. But as the FBI special agent inches closer to his prey, he didn’t bargain on Allison Lexington. After infiltrating the Devil’s Patrol, his onetime confidential informant’s now on the straight and narrow. With her sister set to marry Hector’s nephew, Allison topples headfirst into danger. Then her sister vanishes and the motorcycle-riding trauma nurse might be the one who needs saving. And Rafe’s just the one to do it…

Second Chance under The Mistletoe By Kandy Shepherd

’TIS THE SEASON—TO REKINDLE?

Natalie is having a nightmare Christmas. Her daughter, Clem, has invited her dad over from Australia—and Natalie hasn’t seen her ex, tycoon Jon, for twenty-two years! They agree for the sake of their daughter to pretend to be the perfect family, but Natalie soon discovers the spark between them never died! After two decades of hurt, can she risk her heart for a second chance—or is this festive fling just for the holidays?

It’s Not Me It’s You By Jo Lovett

One hopeless romantic 💕

One hardened cynic ❤️‍🩹

One bet they’ll never forget… 🔥

Freya writes bestselling romance novels for a living, but off the page, she doesn’t believe in happy endings.

Jake is a divorced divorce lawyer who does believe in romance ­– despite every day seeing the results of failed relationships.

When a TV news segment captures their very public disagreement about modern love, the clip goes viral, and to settle the debate, they strike a deal: Jake will find Freya her perfect match, and Freya will convince Jake that romance is a fairy tale best left in fiction.

Review Card & Book Review – 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?

About The Author

My Review

This is a breezy, sun-drenched romantic comedy that delivers exactly what it promises: escapism with sparkle. Set against the postcard-perfect backdrop of Santorini, it is a light-hearted tale brimming with charm, cocktails, and second chances.

The story follows Mia, a jilted influencer still smarting from a broken engagement, as she heads to Greece to be Maid of Honour at her best friend’s wedding. The twist? It’s being held in the very place Mia once dreamed of tying the knot herself. What unfolds is a delightful mix of wedding chaos, self-discovery, and sizzling chemistry—especially with the ever-dreamy local, Christos.

There’s an intoxicating blend of humour and heart, especially in Mia’s growing relationship with her endearing grandmother, whose grounded wisdom offers a nice counterbalance to Mia’s social media–obsessed worldview. It’s about fun, healing, and finding unexpected joy. And in that respect, it shines.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Amazon
Barnes & Noble

Review Card & Book Review – 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.

About The Author

My Review

This is a charming and heartwarming story about fresh starts, friendship, and finding your place in the world. When Rosie decides to leave her old life behind and follow her dream of owning a flower shop, she finds herself in the beautiful, quirky city of Amsterdam—living on a rickety old houseboat with a rather grumpy neighbour next door. And so, her new adventure begins.

Rosie is a thoroughly likeable heroine—warm, determined, and easy to root for. From the very beginning, you find yourself willing her to succeed. The friendships she forms, particularly with Emma and Finn, are a highlight of the book. Their connection brings heart and humour, and you can sense there’s more to their stories yet to come.

While romance is part of the plot, it’s not the only focus—and that’s what makes this book special. It’s about growth, taking chances, and building something new after life has thrown you off course.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Amazon
Barnes & Noble
Kobo