Category Archives: Book Review

Review Card & Book Review – The Old Gal’s Bucket List By Karen King

It’s been eight months since Sandra lost her beloved husband, and she knows something has to change. Her son wants her to sell up her home and move into a retirement apartment, close to him. But she doesn’t feel ready for that yet.

Then she bumps into her old friend Patti, heading off to get her first tattoo. Patti explains she’s beaten cancer and now she’s ready to make every second count… And – sitting down for a cuppa and a slice of cake – the women land on the perfect idea – a bucket list!

As they set out to fulfil dreams, overcome fears, and have the adventure of their lives, their lives intertwine with others who feel the same, including Mary and her anxious husband…

If anyone can help them live their best lives… it’s the old gals!

About The Author

My Review

This is a heartwarming and life-affirming tale that reminds readers it’s never too late to embrace adventure. Recently widowed, Sandra is still finding her footing when her well-meaning son encourages her to move closer to his new job in Cambridge. Feeling pressured and unsettled, Sandra longs for something that’s truly her own. A chance reunion with Patti, a vivacious old colleague with fiery red hair, sparks exactly that.

What begins as a simple shopping trip soon grows into a cherished friendship as the women reconnect like no time has passed. Together, they create a bucket list of experiences to tackle—some bold, some simple, but all transformative. Through laughter, companionship, and shared courage, Sandra learns that life isn’t about slowing down with age but about making the most of every moment.

Karen King’s storytelling is warm, humorous, and wonderfully relatable, celebrating female friendship, resilience, and joy in later life. With charming characters and an uplifting message, this is the perfect feel-good read for anyone who believes that adventure doesn’t come with an expiration date.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

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Review Card & Book Review- A New Life In Amsterdam By Helga Jensen

Could down-sizing her life mean up-sizing her dreams?

Since her daughter grew up and left home, Sandy has found herself filling her house with things – impulse purchases that she just has to have but that quickly lose their sheen. Why would she need an expensive set of copper pans when she has no one to cook for?

Realising that her shopping habit is out of control, she asks herself: can she de-clutter, downsize and start a new life?

She has always wanted to live on a barge, and she reasons that there is no way she would have room for random purchases on a boat. Taking the bravest decision of her life, Sandy buys and refurbishes a barge in the beautiful city of Amsterdam.

Relishing her independence, she is not looking for love, but as the nights draw in and the leaves start to fall from the trees, she finds herself drawn to cafe owner and expert hot chocolate maker Abe.

Is she willing to take a second chance on finding the one?

About The Author

My Review

This is a charming, uplifting tale about fresh starts, second chances, and the courage it takes to reinvent your life. Sandy’s marriage has ended amicably, her daughter has moved to Australia, and she suddenly finds herself at a crossroads. In a bold leap, she downsizes her belongings—and her compulsive shopping habit—and buys a houseboat in Amsterdam without even viewing it first. What follows is a warm, witty journey of self-discovery, renovation, and resilience.

Jensen captures both the humor and heart of Sandy’s adventure beautifully. From the cultural quirks of Dutch life to the challenges of transforming her rundown houseboat, every detail immerses the reader in her new world. Alongside the practical struggles of settling into another country, Sandy also begins to rediscover joy—through unexpected friendships, her blossoming confidence, and a slow-burn connection with Abe, her charming neighbor.

What makes the novel shine is its celebration of life beyond midlife: Sandy’s journey proves that menopause and age are no barrier to chasing happiness. Heartfelt, empowering, and delightfully escapist, it is perfect for anyone dreaming of starting over.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

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Review Card & Book Review – A Rookie Mistake By Laura Carter

It was all part of the game plan – so why are their hearts offside?

Kansas Harris – Sas for short – has the potential to be the best agent at her father’s sports agency, and she’s figured out exactly how she’s going to prove that: by giving disgraced football star Colton Quinn an image overhaul.

Colton may have got himself in hot water during the off-season, but only he knows the real story behind what happened. Regardless, he needs to pick up his game or risk getting left off the active roster – or worse.

Leaving behind all she knows in New York, Sas arrives in Texas with a surefire plan to save Colton’s career as quickly as possible. But when she gets to know the real Colton, that may be easier said than done.

She says she’s staying in the south strictly as his agent but Colton knows how to read a play and he’s about to call her bluff.

About The Author

My Review

This is a sharp, sexy sports romance that delivers both heat and heart. Laura Carter pairs the high stakes of professional football with an emotionally layered love story, making this more than just a steamy fling read.

Kansas “Sas” Harris is a fiercely capable agent striving to prove herself in an industry where her father’s reputation looms large. Enter Colton Quinn, a football star trying to rebuild his tarnished image. Their partnership starts as business, but sparks quickly fly as they challenge each other in ways neither expects. What sets the novel apart is the depth beneath the banter—Colton isn’t just an athlete with a bad-boy reputation; his vulnerabilities and family struggles make him compelling. Sas, meanwhile, shines in her determination, wit, and refusal to let the men around her define her.

Though the pacing dips slightly mid-story and the makeover/fake dating trope is familiar, Carter injects enough freshness to keep the romance engaging. With sizzling chemistry, playful dialogue, and emotional resonance, A Rookie Mistake is a winning pick for sports romance fans craving spice, redemption, and genuine character growth.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

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Review Card & Book Review- Christmas At The French Repair Shop By Sophie Claire

❄️ Can they patch up their broken hearts this Christmas?❄️

Christmas in the picturesque village of Willowbrook should be dreamy – twinkling fairylights, snow in the air, and a busy time for Amélie in the repair workshop she owns, restoring furniture and mending treasured objects for locals to give as Christmas gifts. But in the tiny community, Amélie keeps bumping into her ex, Jack – and it’s killing her festive feeling.

Jack and Amélie were perfect for each other… until one day they weren’t. And when Jack’s attempt at reconciliation goes wrong, he finds himself locked in Amélie’s van.

Driving to her aunt’s house in the South of France, Amélie thinks she’s finally going to get some peace over the festive period, but like it or not, she’ll now be spending Christmas trapped on holiday with Jack. Could it help unwrap the secret to why they split up? Or will it be a gift they’d rather exchange?

About The Author

My Review

This promises a festive escape with its blend of small-town charm, second chances, and a holiday trip to the South of France. Amélie, who runs a sentimental little repair shop in Willowbrook, is determined to enjoy a peaceful Christmas away from her persistent ex, Jack. But fate—and a van mishap—forces them into an unexpected holiday together, where old wounds and lingering feelings resurface.

The premise is fun and filled with festive potential: cozy village life, a French countryside setting, and the possibility of romance rekindled during Christmas. However, while the story has heart, the execution falls a little short of delivering that magical, warm glow readers often seek in seasonal romances. Amélie feels like a capable heroine, but the chemistry between her and Jack never quite sparks. His jokey, sometimes childish behavior undermines the emotional weight of their relationship, making the reconciliation feel less convincing.

Though the book has enjoyable moments and a charming backdrop, it doesn’t fully capture the cozy, romantic spirit of Christmas. It’s a pleasant read, but one that may not leave you with the lasting festive glow of other holiday romances.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

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Review Card & Book Review – Christmas At Hollybush Farm By Jo Thomas

Jemima Jones is driving home to her family’s magical hill-top farm for Christmas…

And on arrival, she soon learns that her dad has been keeping a secret – all is not as it seems, and Hollybush Farm is struggling to make ends meet! Worried about losing the childhood home she loves, Jemima must pull on her winter wellies and get stuck in.

Amid the chaos of chasing after escaping sheep and organising the Christmas tractor run, Jemima begins documenting her slice of farming life on social media. As she builds a supportive online following, she also forms an offline connection in the shape of charming, retired rugby player Llew, her very own Santa’s helper.

With a sprinkle of festive cheer and a dash of goodwill, might the community pull together to help save the farm in time for Christmas?

About The Author

My Review

Jo Thomas delivers a heartfelt and timely festive romance in Christmas at Hollybush Farm, blending love, community, and the challenges of modern farming into a warm and uplifting story.

At its heart is Jemima Jones, a strong, resilient heroine who returns home for Christmas with her boyfriend Matthew, only to discover her family farm is in crisis. Determined not to lose the place that shaped her, Jemima steps up with grit, creativity, and community spirit. From inventive new ventures to embracing the power of social media, she embodies the drive of today’s farmers—unsung heroes often overlooked despite their essential role.

The romance between Jemima and ex-rugby player Llew adds plenty of warmth. Unlike dismissive Matthew, Llew truly understands her connection to the land, and their chemistry grows beautifully amidst snowstorms, farm struggles, and festive traditions. Supporting characters, from Jemima’s family to lively locals like Evie, add humor, heart, and depth to the village atmosphere.

Thomas balances festive charm with important reflections on food, farming, and resilience. Cozy, romantic, and thought-provoking, this novel is the perfect seasonal read—and a celebration of the quiet strength that keeps communities thriving.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

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Review Card & Book Review – Christmas Fling By Lindsey Kelk

Is a fake boyfriend really just for Christmas?

One fake romance. One magical Christmas. One chance to fall in love. 

Laura was all set for a quiet solo Christmas – just her, a bottle of wine, and flat-sitting for a stranger. But when the stranger’s parents mistake her for his mystery girlfriend, she’s swept off to the snowy Scottish Highlands with Callum and his whole family.

Between the cosy sleeper train, charming pubs and breathtaking views, this could be the no-strings-attached Christmas of Laura’s dreams.

But stranger Callum is hot, hilarious and their ‘fake’ chemistry is off the charts.

So is this just a Christmas fling? Or the start of something more?

About The Author

My Review

The novel follows Laura, who plans on a quiet, solitary Christmas until an unexpected run-in with her landlord, Callum, changes everything. When his parents arrive unannounced and mistake Laura for his girlfriend, she goes along with the charade. Soon, what begins as a spur-of-the-moment lie spirals into a full-blown holiday adventure in the Scottish Highlands, complete with family traditions, festive chaos, and the unmistakable chemistry between Laura and Callum.

Kelk shines in her signature banter, delivering laugh-out-loud moments alongside a wonderfully cozy backdrop that feels straight out of a Christmas movie. Laura is a relatable, capable heroine whose charm keeps the story grounded, while the fake-dating trope adds plenty of playful tension. If there’s a drawback, it’s that some hijinks run a bit over the top and Callum’s character could use more depth. Still, Christmas Fling is a delightful, feel-good rom-com perfect for curling up with during the holidays.

This is a story that sparkles with humor, heart, and just the right touch of holiday magic.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

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Review Card & Book Review – A Scottish Christmas Hideaway By Ellie Henderson

One snowy village. Two guarded hearts. A Christmas they’ll never forget.

After a year of burying her heartbreak in endless work, Jessica Stewart returns to her childhood home in the Scottish village of Rowan Bay. She hopes the Christmas lights and familiar faces will help her rediscover the woman she used to be.

She doesn’t expect Reuben Campbell.

Once her brother’s infuriating best friend — the boy who teased her endlessly — Reuben is now a ruggedly handsome architect with an easy charm. And he’s suddenly everywhere Jessica turns.

As the village prepares for Christmas, Jessica and Reuben find themselves sharing frost-bitten walks, fairy-lit evenings and gingerbread house disasters. The spark between them is impossible to ignore and Reuben’s steady presence begins to melt the walls Jessica has spent so long building.

But Jessica came home to escape complications — and Reuben, for all his warmth, is hiding heartbreak and secrets of his own.

As Christmas approaches can two people with every reason to resist each other finally give in to a second chance neither saw coming?

About The Author

My Review

This is a charming festive escape set in the picturesque Scottish village of Rowan Bay. After a year of heartbreak, Jessica Stewart returns home, hoping to find comfort in the familiar warmth of Christmas traditions. What she doesn’t expect is to reconnect with Reuben Campbell—her brother’s childhood friend, once a playful nuisance, now a rugged architect who stirs feelings she never anticipated.

The heart of this novel lies in its setting. Henderson’s descriptions of snowy streets, glittering lights, and cozy gatherings capture the magic of Christmas in Scotland so vividly that Rowan Bay feels like a place readers will long to visit. Jessica’s family adds even more warmth, bringing humor, love, and a sense of belonging that perfectly complements the season’s spirit.

The romance between Jessica and Reuben unfolds gently, weaving past memories with the promise of second chances. Their shared history and personal struggles make their connection feel relatable and genuine, adding depth to the festive charm.

Overall, it is a heartwarming holiday story full of family, community, and a slow-burn romance perfect for curling up with by the fire.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

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Review Card & Book Review- The Holiday Hookup List By Alexis Daria

Valencia

After calling it quits with my cheating fiancé, I’m definitely not feeling the Christmas spirit this year. But when my best friend invites me to a holiday dance party, I show up ready to shake my ass.

Except I must be on Santa’s naughty list, because who do I run into? My infuriatingly sexy high school archnemesis, Gideon Noble.

The pulsing music, red and green strobe lights, and Gideon’s bitable bottom lip make me reckless, so I drag him onto the dance floor.

And then? I take him home with me.

Gideon

If this is my second chance with Valencia, I’m not wasting it.

We’re both alone this Christmas, so we create a naughty and nice list that would make Santa blush: twelve days of wholesome yuletide cheer, and twelve nights decking each other’s halls.

As Christmas Eve, and the end of our list, approaches, I realize that twelve days with Valencia Torres isn’t enough.

I want forever.

But does she?

About The Author

My Review

The story follows Valencia, an EPA lawyer, who unexpectedly reunites with her former high school rival, Gideon, during a night out in New York. What begins as a chance encounter and one-night hookup quickly develops into a spirited arrangement: twelve days of holiday outings by day paired with an adventurous intimacy bucket list by night. The result is equal parts “Hallmark after dark” and heartwarming romance.

Daria skillfully balances lighthearted festive fun with deeper themes, including family complications, past betrayals, and the vulnerabilities of starting over. The chemistry between Valencia and Gideon is undeniable, and the intimacy is not only passionate but also refreshingly mutual and exploratory.

What particularly sets this novella apart is its casual queer and Latine representation, offering an inclusive and modern take on holiday romance. The Holiday Hookup List is both sexy and heartfelt, making it a perfect seasonal read for those seeking something vibrant, diverse, and delightfully unconventional.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

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Review Card & Book Review – Suddenly Mine By Katie Evergreen

This Christmas, love is the best surprise of all . . .

Merry Sinclair used to adore Christmas — until heartbreak ruined her holiday spirit. Working in New York’s famously festive Carroll’s Department Store over the holidays is not helping matters. Until she meets new employee Christian, whose easy confidence and deep chestnut eyes make her heart skip.

Estranged heir to a global empire, Christian Carroll hasn’t set foot inside his family’s store in years. But when his father tells him the company’s struggling, he reluctantly agrees to return, on one condition — he’ll work undercover as a janitor.

The last thing he needs is a distraction in the form of the charming and quirky store-greeter he can’t seem to stay away from.

As Merry and Christian grow closer, their connection becomes undeniable. But when Christian’s true identity is revealed, Merry must choose — can she trust him with her heart, or will past heartaches keep them from finding their own place under the mistletoe?

About The Author

My Review

This is a festive, fun, and flirty addition to the Appex Billionaires series. Set against the twinkling lights of New York during the holiday season, it captures both the magic and the messiness of love. Merry Sinclaire is a hardworking, relatable heroine—drained from long shifts at the Caroll family department store and weighed down by responsibility for her sister’s healthcare. Her struggles with exhaustion and financial pressure add a layer of realism that makes her easy to root for.

Enter Christian Caroll, the reluctant heir forced back from his overseas charity work to rescue the family empire. Disguising himself as a janitor, Christian soon collides—literally—with Merry, sparking a connection that’s equal parts hilarious and sizzling. Their banter, undeniable chemistry, and steamy moments keep the pages turning, while the backdrop of Santa encounters, mulled wine, and holiday chaos adds a cozy sparkle.

Though Christian’s secret identity creates tension, his sincerity shines through, making the romance sweet and satisfying. With its blend of humor, heat, and heart, this is a lighthearted Christmas romance that delivers both laughs and feels in equal measure.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

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Review Card & Book Review – A Winter Of Sweet Secrets By Heidi McCahan

What will it take to save her family’s candy company…and end a decades-long feud?

For generations, the Evergreen Candy Company has been a beloved small-town Alaskan tradition run by Jovi Wright’s family—until now. With her grandparents no longer at the helm, Jovi’s parents are considering selling it. When her sister calls with the news, Jovi hops on a plane back home to help rescue the family business. Her plan: launch Grammie’s salted caramel chews as a new product. But with Grammie’s memory fading and the recipe missing, Jovi has her work cut out for her.
Still reeling from being jilted by her fiancé, Jovi welcomes the distraction of trying to re-create the recipe from scratch. The distraction she’s not so sure about is single dad Burke Solomon. The disillusioned author and his adorable little girl have moved in to his late aunt’s cabin just down the road from her grandparents’ home, where she’s staying. And the discovery that their families have been feuding since before either of them were born is too irresistible to ignore.
With a looming deadline and the stresses of single parenthood, the last thing Burke needs is a bright-eyed optimist like Jovi next door. But he finds himself asking for her help adjusting to life in Evergreen more than he’d like to admit. And untangling the history of what happened to the friendship between his late aunt and Jovi’s Grammie provides an antidote to his writer’s block. But when Burke unearths several shocking family secrets, will revealing them settle the feud or bring everything he and Jovi have been working toward crashing down around them?

About The Author

My Review

This is a heartwarming small-town holiday romance that blends family, community, and second chances with a touch of mystery. For generations, the Evergreen Candy Company has been at the heart of Jovi Wright’s family, but with her grandparents aging and her parents considering selling, Jovi rushes home to help. Her plan: relaunch Grammie’s famous salted caramel chews. The problem? Grammie’s memory is fading, and the treasured recipe is nowhere to be found.

Enter Burke Solomon, a widowed author struggling with writer’s block and single father to the utterly endearing Darby Jane. Moving into his late aunt’s cabin places him right next door to Jovi—and right into the middle of a decades-old feud between their families. Their reluctant partnership soon turns into something much deeper, with Burke’s guarded heart slowly opening under Jovi’s optimism and determination.

McCahan delivers cozy festive vibes—snowy Alaska, twinkle lights, candy shops, and heartfelt family moments—while weaving in themes of forgiveness, resilience, and love. Sweet, uplifting, and brimming with holiday charm, this story is a perfect seasonal read.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

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