When Chrissy Marsden moves her children and menagerie of pets into Corner Cottage, she hopes to put her divorce behind her and have the fresh start she’s been longing for.
Just as she feels she is finally getting her life back on track, with a chance encounter at the school gates re-igniting her passion for sewing, a surprise pregnancy throws everything into turmoil.
When she is asked to alter a wedding dress, she realises her hobby could become something she could turn into a real career, and an invite to a client’s wedding could be all she needs to bring romance back into her life.
But will she be able to find someone who can accept her as she is?
Chrissy Marsden moves to Corner Cottage with her children after her divorce, hoping for a fresh start. A chance encounter reignites her passion for sewing, leading her to consider turning it into a career. However, a surprise pregnancy throws her plans into turmoil. As Chrissy navigates the challenges of starting over, she discovers the possibility of romance and a new career path. This heartwarming story explores themes of betrayal, upheaval, and learning to trust and love again.
Thomas Moore, heir to the glamorous New York department store Moore’s, has everything. Everything but a sense of humor. Probably why he’s so often compared to his philandering crook of a father.
Alice Truman, recently promoted from the sales floor, is determined to prove her worth. Even if that means smiling in the face of the arrogant and too-sexy-for-his-own-good Thomas Moore, who seems to think her unfit for her new position.
Avoidance works wonders until Alice’s best friend plans an Elvis-themed destination wedding with Thomas’ brother—a concept the modern Mr. Darcy loathes.
Throw in a hairless cat, a calamitous bachelorette party and some questionable cocktails, and things become… complicated. And when things get complicated, anyone but the boss would be better.
After a drunken night in Vegas, Alice and her boss Thomas wake up married and agree to keep it quiet while they try to annul the marriage. However, a family emergency delays their plans, giving them time to bond. Thomas, initially closed off, starts to open up, especially to Alice’s niece Mary. Meanwhile, Alice reveals her strong, protective side and begins to see Thomas differently. As they navigate their differences and past traumas, their opposites-attract dynamic sparks a deep connection. With memorable supporting characters and heartfelt moments, this rom-com delivers both humor and emotional depth, making it a delightful read.
The Copper Plough is at the heart of village life for the residents of Heritage Cove, and never more so than at Christmas, when the tree glows in the alcove and the smell of mulled wine carries out onto the street. So when new owners for the beloved pub arrive and decide to shake things up, not everyone welcomes the changes with open arms.
Local bakery owner Celeste is ready to keep an open mind. But she’s shocked to discover that one of the new landlords is Quinn, a former Navy sailor with whom she had a short but powerful romance years earlier.
Fate may have brought Quinn and Celeste back together, but life seems determined to keep them apart. Can the villagers learn to embrace the newcomers this Christmas? And will Quinn and Celeste find a way back to each other before snow falls over Heritage Cove?
Celeste, an independent businesswoman, enjoys her life surrounded by family and friends in her close-knit community. A chance encounter with Quinn leads to a short-lived fling, leaving both content with their brief time together. However, when the local pub undergoes changes and a beloved community member falls ill, tensions rise. Quinn returns, hoping to reconnect with Celeste, but she keeps him at arm’s length due to his troubled past and her own uncertainties. Despite facing bleak moments and emotional rollercoasters, the heartwarming bond between Celeste and Quinn, supported by their friends and community, shines through, offering hope and healing. The story beautifully portrays Quinn’s struggles with PTSD and the power of love and support in overcoming obstacles.
Libby Cooper hasn’t celebrated Christmas since the night her parents died in a terrible accident. She wants to forget that the season of goodwill even exists; but her grandmother has other ideas. It’s time for Libby to start living her life just as her parents would have wanted her to do.
First stop New York!
What better way to immerse herself in the celebrations, than working in her great aunt’s Christmas shop, just a few blocks from Central Park? Making new friends in the Big Apple is the easy bit, but leaving the past behind proves much harder than Libby imagined.
Long walks in gorgeous Central Park help, and here she meets Harry Stanwick, a Central Park Ranger. Harry seems to know instinctively when Libby wants to talk or when she just needs to sit quietly on their special bench with him by her side.
Slowly, Libby begins to feel some of the pain of her past slipping away. And as New York begins to work its magic and her friendship with Harry grows, so too do Libby’s feelings for him.
But can she ever be truly happy without the people who matter the most to her? Or can Harry convince Libby that she deserves her own Christmas miracle -and her chance of happiness – sitting with him on their bench in Central Park?
Libby, still reeling from her parents’ tragic death, reluctantly travels to New York at her grandparents’ insistence to help her great aunt at her Christmas-themed shop near Central Park. Despite her aversion to the festive season, her time in the city brings unexpected healing through new friendships and a blossoming romance with Harry, a Central Park ranger. The story delves into grief, guilt, and the gradual process of finding hope and healing. While Libby’s grief can sometimes be overwhelming, the supportive characters and vivid setting add depth and warmth to the narrative. As Libby’s journey unfolds, she finds herself drawn to the magic of Christmas and the possibility of a brighter future. With a gorgeous romance, heartwarming friendships, and surprising twists, this beautifully told Christmas tale is sure to warm readers’ hearts.
Poppy Dean lives and breathes romance – in her job at least. As a matchmaker at an elite London agency, she spends her days finding the perfect Mr Right for pretty much everybody but herself.
When Tristan Fellows walks into the agency, Poppy knows she’s in for a challenge. A typical bachelor, Tristan has no intention of falling in love, but in order to receive his 30-million-pound inheritance, he must find himself a wife before his 35th birthday.
This may be Poppy’s hardest case yet, but even the most arrogant of men can sometimes warm a woman’s heart. And who knows, maybe it’s finally time for Poppy to find her happy ever after too?
Poppy, a former psychologist working at the exclusive Ever After Agency in London, is tasked with finding a wife for Tristan, who needs to secure his grandfather’s fortune. Despite his reluctance for a love match, their initial hostility evolves into unexpected attraction. As Poppy navigates her professional and personal life, she finds herself drawn to Tristan’s depth and charm. The chemistry between them crackles with energy, adding to the charm of the story. With well-drawn characters, including supportive friends and intriguing potential matches for Tristan, the novel offers a delightful blend of romance, humor, and emotional depth. Set against the backdrop of London’s elite society, the story unfolds with plenty of laughs, poignant moments, and a satisfying slow-burn romance. Overall, “Ever After Agency” is a fabulous read that promises a unique and engaging story, making it a must-add to any reading list.
The end-of-summer sunset kisses the golden stone of Tuppenny Bridge’s Market Square and children chase fireflies past gardens brimming with sunflowers. Last year, Kat Pennyfeather’s life was turned upside down, but it seems destiny isn’t finished with her yet…
Kat Pennyfeather knows the joys and challenges of parenthood all too well – she’s been thrown into the deep end as a single, first-time mother to adorable baby Hattie. With the unwavering support of her beloved great aunties, affectionately known as The Lavender Ladies, and the sanctuary of her cosy home above Pennyfeather’s Wool Shop, Kat is holding things together…. mostly.
Across town, Jonah Brewster finds himself navigating the treacherous path of single parenthood after a painful divorce and unexpected loss. Jonah longs for stability, but the last thing he wants are the blind dates his well-meaning sister is constantly thrusting upon him.
When Kat and Jonah unexpectedly reconnect in the Market Café, something sparks between them. They’ve known each other for years, but now there’s a newfound understanding there… and, at least for Kat, something else too. But their shared past holds more than comfortable friendship – a terrible tragedy and some difficult unspoken truths. Can Kat and Jonah defy the odds and embrace an unexpected chance for happiness?
Meanwhile, The Lavender Ladies are making their own secret plans. Kat, well aware of their mischievous ways, hopes that whatever it is won’t put her job in the wool shop at risk. But when the truth is finally revealed, it’s so much worse than she thought. What on earth is she going to do now?
“Second Chances in Tuppenny Bridge” aptly portrays a couple getting another shot at love and starting anew after facing life’s challenges. Kat and Jonah, childhood friends reunited, navigate their complicated lives as single parents with warmth and humor. The story, told from their perspectives, delves into their struggles, heartaches, and the budding romance between them. Despite their hardships, they find solace and support in each other, leading to a transformative journey. With bursts of humor and a cozy atmosphere, the novel draws readers in, making it easy to empathize with the characters and their emotional journeys. As Kat and Jonah’s stories unfold gradually, the author skillfully addresses heavier topics and offers viable solutions, creating a well-composed and compelling read. Overall, “Second Chances in Tuppenny Bridge” is a heartwarming tale of love, resilience, and new beginnings that readers won’t want to put down.
Amelia Riley and Ben Lawson have something in common – fathers who have kept secrets.
On the day of his father’s funeral, Ben’s life changes forever when a woman he’s never met shows up claiming to be his sister. As he investigates the past, Ben is shaken to discover that much of his life has been built on a carefully constructed foundation of his father’s lies. Needing answers, he agrees to visit Juniper Meadows, the ancestral estate owned and run by his long-lost relatives, the Travers family.
Arriving in the pretty Cotswolds countryside, the first person Ben meets is Amelia Riley. They are immediately drawn to one another, but Amelia has her own complicated ties to the Travers family. Her only goal is to set the past to rights so she can move on with a clean conscience.
As Ben starts to see the events of his childhood more clearly, he allows the warmth and fun he finds at Juniper Meadows to draw him in from the cold. But just as he’s contemplating setting down roots, Amelia is making plans to leave…
The story revolves around two main characters, Amelia and Ben, whose perspectives alternate throughout the narrative. Amelia grapples with her father’s criminal actions and her pride prevents her from accepting help, despite genuine kindness from those around her. Ben, a grieving son, discovers he has a newfound family and navigates meeting them for the first time at Juniper Meadows. The warm welcome he receives and his transformation under the Travers family’s care highlights the importance of family and close friendships. Despite the wintery cover, the story is set in autumn, culminating in a Halloween celebration, but the warmth of the characters compensates for any seasonal expectations. Overall, the novel explores themes of self-discovery and the significance of familial and friendship bonds, making it a compelling read.
Sarah, head of HR at a London hospital, is still recovering from being jilted and has sworn off men. When the new hospital director, Dr. Lucas Moore, takes an interest in her, Sarah agrees to let him pretend to be her boyfriend. Despite her prickly demeanor, Sarah finds herself drawn to the sweet and kind Lucas. Their slow-burn romance unfolds against the backdrop of Christmas in London, with vivid descriptions adding to the cozy atmosphere. Alongside their relationship, other storylines involving nosy neighbors, family drama, and Sarah’s unsettling boss provide depth to the narrative. Emotional moments and relatable characters make this a heartwarming read, despite some uncomfortable themes. Overall, “Christmas in London” is an engaging story with a satisfying conclusion and a perfect pick for the holiday season.
Ellie Browne has left behind her high-flying job in London to return to the charming Buckinghamshire village of Little Leyton.
Working shifts at the Dog and Duck pub and running her own doggy-daycare business, Ellie’s looking for a simpler way of life in this idyllic English setting.
But Little Leyton’s landscape is changing: Johnny Tay, Ellie’s ex, wants to pick up where they left off; sultry property developer Max Golding has moved into the village and is ruffling feathers; and rumour has it that the pub, which holds a special place in Ellie’s heart, might be sold. Suddenly, life’s looking a whole lot more complicated…. Can Ellie overcome all the challenges to finally find her one true love?
The story follows Ellie as she juggles her new dog-walking business and shifts at The Dog and Duck pub. While the setting is cozy and familiar, the plot feels predictable and lacking freshness, reminiscent of similar themes explored by other authors. One glaring issue is the inclusion of the refugee crisis, which feels out of place in a chick-lit novel and isn’t adequately addressed. Additionally, the extensive introductions of even minor characters feel unnecessary. The plot meanders through various subplots without clear direction, leaving the impression that the author lacked focus. Despite these flaws, the book touches on current issues like the Syrian refugee crisis, adding depth to the narrative. Overall, it’s a heartwarming Christmas read with endearing characters, perfect for the holiday season, but may not offer much beyond its familiar setting.
Two broken hearts learning how to live – and love – again.
After a devastating tragedy shakes Erin’s world, she returns to her hometown of Point Perry seeking solace and a fresh start. But just as she begins to find her footing, an unexpected visitor and an old enemy threaten to upend her life once again.
Tom, a devoted single father and beloved teacher, is no stranger to turmoil. His ex-wife, now a Hollywood starlet, has descended upon Point Perry for her movie premiere, stirring up trouble and putting Tom’s priorities to the test. As the town buzzes with excitement over the event, Tom must also navigate a strained relationship with his father and protect his son from his ex’s manipulations.
Despite their emotional scars and obstacles, Erin and Tom can’t ignore their growing connection. As they begin to explore the chance for a future together, they must confront their past traumas and find a way to move forward. Will their love be enough to overcome the challenges they face, or will their emotional baggage prove too heavy to bear?
Erin Fitzgerald, reeling from a tumultuous year, returns to her hometown of Point Perry to confront her past and bring her mother’s ashes home. There, she crosses paths with Tom Schultz, a single dad and school teacher, whose ex-wife’s return complicates his life. Despite their emotional baggage, Erin and Tom find themselves drawn to each other, their budding romance complicated by buried secrets and unexpected revelations. As they navigate their feelings, the supportive community of Point Perry offers a backdrop of healing and second chances. “Point Perry Promises” is a heartfelt and emotional romance that will make readers laugh, cry, and fall in love with its endearing characters. Joanne Speirs delivers a captivating debut novel that promises more heartwarming stories to come.
My Sanctuary 