October 31, 2025 – My Sanctuary

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.