October 20, 2025 – My Sanctuary

Canapés At The Beach House Hotel By Judith Keim

A surprising turn of events awaits Ann and Rhonda…

When Vice-President Amelia Swanson asks them to oversee a stay at the hotel by the Italian Ambassador to the United Nations in New York City and his family, Ann and Rhonda hope this won’t mean another problem for The Beach House Hotel. Enrico Ferrara, his wife, Catarina, and his daughter, Philippa, arrive at the hotel at the same time a young chef, Chet Waring, and a friend, Harper Lewis, seek employment at the hotel after being unfairly booted from the Miami restaurant scene by a notorious, difficult chef. The same chef, Jonny Arno, is opening an Italian restaurant close to The Beach House Hotel to compete directly with them. All of these people, and a few more, come together to create a recipe for danger, love, and loyalty.

The Spiced Cocoa Cafe By Harper Graham

A new girl in town who lives for Christmas and has everything to prove. A local rival with tousled dark hair and a smirk that spells trouble. Who will win the holiday showdown of the year? Find out in this totally addictive small-town romance! Gilmore Girls + spice = 🔥

Cassidy is finally opening her dream chocolate shop, inspired by her dear Grandma who made the best cocoa. Now all she wants for Christmas is to win best decorated store and show she belongs in the small-town of Maple Falls. But she’ll have to pull out all the stops to beat the handsome, loveable grinch across the street…

Liam hates the holidays—they remind him of past heartbreak. But to support his family’s llama sanctuary, he’s determined to deck out his farm shop in holiday cheer and win that prize. Then he sees her—chocolate-smeared cheeks, wide blue eyes and the warmest smile. He’s up against the cutest, most Christmas-obsessed person ever…

Their rivalry heats up as the town divides between Team Cassidy and Team Liam. But with the snowflakes falling and their stores looking all merry and bright, will the magic of the season bring them together?

Clued In To Love By Ellie Alexander

When her hometown launches a holiday scavenger hunt with a life-changing cash prize, Marissa Henry jumps at the chance to save her fledgling business—until she’s partnered with the most gorgeous but infuriating man in town.

Marissa’s catering company is her passion project but it’s swiftly turning into a financial disaster. With bills piling up and her culinary dreams crumbling faster than aged cheddar, she’s determined to win the prize money.

There’s just one problem: she’s been paired with William Graff, who wrecked her carefully curated display when she catered his wealthy family’s party and who she’s convinced is an entitled jerk. But as they race through holiday challenges, from Christmas light chaos to competitive snowman-creation, Marissa discovers there’s more to William than his trust fund and his ugly holiday sweater collection.

Soon Marissa has something new to fight for: a chance at an unexpected romance that could really change her life.

Is this just a summer romance or could it be more? 💕

Nicola grew up at Pennycress Inn, in the beautiful Cotswold village of Meadowfield, and now she’s come full circle by landing a job there. After a difficult few months, she’s happy to be back in the place she loves and calls home.

The whole village is looking forward to the annual summer carnival, and Nicola is charged with asking the local farmers to lend their tractors and trailers for the occasion. It’s an easy task – until she meets the new owner of Little Mead Farm, who stubbornly refuses to help.

On sabbatical from his City job for the summer, Charlie wants to do up his late uncle’s farm and put it on the market as soon as possible. The place might have been in his family for generations but country life is simply not for him. He has no time for whatever the villagers are up to.

When Nicola and Charlie meet, sparks fly – and unexpected feelings grow. Soon there’s more at stake in Meadowfield than the success of the carnival. But whatever happens between them, this is just a summer romance… isn’t it?

About The Author

My Review

Nicola is a wonderful heroine—kind-hearted, resilient, and deeply connected to her hometown of Meadowfield. After a painful breakup with her cheating fiancé, she throws herself into her job at the lovely Pennycress Inn and volunteers to help with the annual carnival. Enter Charlie, the grumpy newcomer who’s inherited his uncle’s rundown farm and has zero plans to stick around. He’s all sharp edges at first, but once his walls begin to crumble, he reveals such a thoughtful and gentle side. I really liked Charlie—his transformation felt genuine, and the chemistry between him and Nicola was sweet and satisfying.

Nicola’s ex continues to cause drama (honestly, what nerve!), but she handles it with grace. It’s her generous spirit and deep love for her friends and the community that make her so endearing. I also adored side characters like Trixie and Claudette—not to mention the hens, who somehow added even more charm!

The small-town setting of Meadowfield and the warm, close-knit community make this book such a feel-good escape.

My Rating