Category Archives: Book Review

Review Card & Book Review – Playing For Possession By Sasha Lace

“You don’t have to follow other people’s rules all the time.”

“And you don’t have to break them all the time either.”

Joanie

People assume Joanie’s a nepo baby, but they have no idea how hard she’s worked to get back on the pitch after injury.

She just wants to play football. The last thing she needs is to film an ad in Menorca with Kieran Earnshaw, the men’s team bad boy. Kieran is gorgeous, though—and he seems different with her. Maybe it’s time this good girl finally experimented with her wild side…?

Kieran

Joanie’s dad is on the board. He’s warned Kieran off his daughter, but wants him to watch out for her on their trip. He can get Kieran on the England squad, his lifelong dream, so he’ll have to play by the rules—just this once. Quiet Joanie likes to stay in the background. But Kieran’s realized anyone overlooking this woman is making a mistake. She’s the total package, beautiful inside and out. He knows what he wants on and off the pitch—and he always plays to win. He’s risking everything, but sometimes opposites attract. And together, he reckons they could rewrite the whole rulebook…

About The Author

My Review

Sasha Lace delivers another knockout in her sports romance series with Playing for Possession—a heartfelt, fiery, and deeply human story that goes far beyond the pitch. Joanie and Kieran, two fiercely talented footballers burdened by the shadows of their fathers’ legacies, are flawed yet utterly captivating. Joanie’s struggle with injury, self-worth, and public perception is portrayed with remarkable honesty, while Kieran’s quiet strength and fierce loyalty to his brother add layers of tenderness beneath his tough exterior.

Their forced collaboration on a commercial in Spain sparks a chemistry that’s both slow-burning and scorching—Lace’s trademark blend of humor and heat shines through, particularly in the hilarious “reading” scene that turns deliciously steamy. Beyond the romance, the story explores healing, identity, and forgiveness with sensitivity and realism.

The supporting cast—especially Joanie’s father, Mortimer Fox, and Kieran’s brother, Jack—add emotional richness and depth. Lace captures the messiness of family, fame, and redemption with grace. This is a moving tale of second chances, personal growth, and love that dares to look beneath the surface. A beautifully written, emotionally rewarding read with a perfect happily ever after.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Review Card & Book Review- Home This Christmas By Sue Roberts

Childhood sweethearts. Second chances. And one magical Christmas…

Since chef Ruby left to chase her dreams in London and her family moved away, she’s not had reason to visit her tiny hometown… Until she’s invited to judge the charity gingerbread competition over the holidays, raising money for the local library where Ruby once loved getting cosy. But there’s Christmas mischief at work… Because her ex, Nathan, is a gingerbread judge too.

He is broodier than she remembers, and twice as handsome. Ruby’s pulse races every time their hands brush reaching for the freshly baked treats. And when their eyes meet at the prize giving, it’s even harder to remember all the reasons she left.

Ruby can’t resist staying long enough to raise more awareness for the library charity. Then snowfall traps her in the village. As the fairy lights twinkle and carollers sing, she can’t seem to escape Nathan, and his broody exterior starts to crack… Is the magic of Christmas giving them a second chance?

But Ruby must get back to London for Christmas Day for work. Faced with saying another goodbye, she isn’t sure she wants to…

About The Author

My Review

This is the literary equivalent of a crackling fire and a mug of mulled wine—cosy, heartwarming, and perfectly festive. Sue Roberts delivers a delightful tale of love rekindled in a snow-dusted English village that feels straight out of a Christmas card.

Ruby, a talented London chef nursing a bruised heart, reluctantly returns home to judge a local gingerbread competition. The twist? Her fellow judge is Nathan, her ex-boyfriend, who’s as charming—and as hurt—as ever. What follows is a flurry of witty exchanges, simmering tension, and one hilariously icy mishap that reignites old sparks.

Roberts excels at capturing the warmth of small-town life and the magic of forgiveness. The story blends humour, nostalgia, and just the right dose of romantic tension. While the plot hits familiar beats, the characters and setting make it irresistibly comforting.

Sweet, sparkling, and sprinkled with cinnamon-scented charm, Home This Christmas is a must-read for anyone who loves second chances, festive baking, and feel-good holiday romance. A cosy escape best enjoyed with a blanket and a mince pie.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Review Card & Book Review- Dreams Come True At The Fairytale Museum By Jaimie Admans

A place where dreams come true…

Lissa’s heart belongs to the Colours of the Wind museum, a charming haven where fairytale artifacts whisper tales of old. But her quiet magic is shattered when a sleek real estate firm buys the building, threatening to demolish her beloved museum. Lissa is devastated and ready to fight.

Enter Warren Berrington, the infuriatingly handsome developer whose modern vision clashes with her quirky world. He talks budgets; she dreams of wishing wells. Yet, Warren offers a lifeline: three months to save the museum, and despite their fiery arguments, a curious spark ignites between them.

Then, true enchantment begins. Spinning wheels whir, glass slippers vanish, and enchanted objects embark on whimsical adventures, making the museum an overnight sensation. Lissa dares to hope her dreams are finally within reach.

But she can’t shake the feeling Warren is playing games. Could he be orchestrating events for a clever ploy, or is Ever After Street weaving a new fairytale, one that might just involve her heart?

About The Author

My Review

Jaimie Admans once again works her magic with a story that’s as heartwarming as it is whimsical. Set in the enchanting Fairytale Museum, the book brims with charm — from glittering exhibits to a touch of real-life wonder.

Lissa, a dreamer who believes in happily ever afters, finds herself clashing with Warren, a down-to-earth developer who sees the museum as a business venture rather than a magical haven. Their opposites-attract dynamic sparks plenty of tension, laughter, and slow-burn chemistry that feels both fun and genuine.

Admans shines at crafting lovable characters and emotional growth, weaving in themes of believing in yourself, finding purpose, and rediscovering magic in everyday life. While the pacing drags slightly in places and the whimsical tone sometimes outweighs deeper emotion, it’s still a delightful escape.

As the final book in the Ever After Street series, it offers a satisfying, fairytale-worthy conclusion filled with hope, heart, and happily-ever-afters.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

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

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

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

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

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