Category Archives: Book Review

Book Review – The Love Proposal By Camilla Isley

The moment you stop looking, that’s when Prince Charming will come knocking on your door!

Summer Knowles does not want a boyfriend. Relationships have caused enough problems in her life. As bridesmaid at her sister’s wedding, she’s going to avoid all things romantic – especially the brawny, hipster best-man who has commitment-phobe written all over him!

When Archie Hill meets Summer, he immediately thinks bridesmaid-and-best-man-with-benefits! They have one week together and may as well make the most of it. But what if one week just isn’t enough…

As wedding fever takes hold, can a sworn-off-men bridesmaid and a die-hard bachelor learn a thing or two about happy-ever-after?

Published Date: 22 July 2023

My Review

Summer Knowles committed a shocking act by engaging in a past affair with her best friend’s boyfriend, causing her to lose friends and strain her family ties. Vowing to remain single forever, she faces the challenge of a week-long wedding celebration for her twin sister, Winter. The situation becomes more complicated when Archibald Hill, a philanderer and the best man, proposes a no-strings-attached week together as a distraction. What begins as a week of fun transforms into something deeper.

Despite feeling undeserving of forgiveness for her past mistakes, Summer undergoes remarkable personal growth, leading to redemption and a second chance. Archie, previously a noncommittal individual, experiences love and desire for something more. Although their connection may seem like instant love, unfolding rapidly over the course of a week, the story is filled with intense tension and chemistry. In the end, the author skillfully crafts characters that feel genuine and relatable, eliciting empathy and encouragement from readers. The captivating narrative kept me engaged from start to finish.

My Rating

Book Review – New Beginnings at Wildflower Lock By Hannah Lynn

New starts and hopeful hearts…

At 25, Daisy May’s life is not living up to expectations. Her childhood dreams of being an artist feel as unachievable as a committed relationship or managing to save enough money for a deposit on a house. But a surprise inheritance could change all that.

After Daisy learns she’s now the new owner of a forty-foot narrow boat, she sets out for Wildflower Lock, where the fresh country breeze and the calm water is enough to assure her everything will be okay.

With the help of the ruggedly attractive, yet grumpy riverman, Theo, she begins to work on her new home, the September Rose. Can she breathe new life into the old boat and learn to navigate not only the canals themselves, but also the people who live there? Or will the whole venture pull her under?

Published Date: 14 July 2023

My Review

Daisy May, at 25, craves a more meaningful life, steering away from her childhood aspiration of becoming an artist. Despite a distant connection with her mother, Daisy finds comfort in two close friends. The unexpected inheritance of a houseboat named September Rose introduces her to Theo, a brusque yet captivating Riverman, following an accidental boarding of the wrong vessel. Confronting work challenges and escalating rent, Daisy opts to refurbish the houseboat for potential resale. However, as she delves into the project and bonds with fellow boat inhabitants, she discovers concealed facets of herself and her family, unveiling longstanding secrets her mother may be concealing. The lively interaction between Daisy and Theo enriches this captivating narrative, although the somewhat abrupt conclusion sparks curiosity, hinting at the possibility of a sequel.

My Rating

Book Review – The Start Of Something Wonderful By Jessica Redland

Autumn Laine has lost her creative sparkle. After losing her grandad and her job as an illustrator in quick succession, she is at a crossroads in life and needs a break. Spending time with her parents in Paris, even in the artistic community of Montmartre, doesn’t appear to be the answer.

So when her penpal, Rosie, invites her to stay in the Lake District, Autumn jumps at the chance to get away from the hustle and bustle of Paris. After all, where better to re-discover her creativity than the place which inspired her heroine, Beatrix Potter?

Arriving at the picturesque lakeside village of Willowdale, Autumn is swept up by the beauty and magic of the stunning landscape. Welcomed into the community with open arms, she slowly starts to feel like herself again as her creative instincts re-ignite.

But when she meets Dane, who has escaped to the Lakes for his own reasons, will Autumn’s walls come down to let someone in again after so long? Or will the secrets of her past continue to hold her back?

Published Date: 17 July 2023

My Review

Confronting a pivotal moment in her life post-job loss and personal challenges, Autumn Laine accepts an invitation from her penpal Rosie to explore The Lake District. In the midst of the inspiring scenery and Beatrix Potter’s influence, she forms a connection with Dane, a cyclist navigating his own troubles. Their journey unfolds as a tale of healing, inspiration, and the possibility of a deeper connection than mere friendship. ‘The Start of Something Wonderful’ skillfully depicts Autumn’s personal growth, the evolving penpal relationship, and the profound impact of friendship against the backdrop of a splendid setting.

My Rating

Book Review – Long Time No Sea By Portia MacIntosh

There’s trouble in paradise… 

Moving home in her 30s was not the life plan Jas had in mind. So when her best friend gets in touch to say she’s arranging a long overdue reunion with their high school friends, Jas is very much up for the escape. Oh, and it’s all expenses paid to Italy – so that’s a bonus!

But while being whisked away to the beautiful Italian coast may seem idyllic, Jas has to come face to face with not only her ex-boyfriend, but the one that got away too!

It’s a week of sun, sea and unravelling secrets, and as the love triangle from the past starts to develop once again, this trip is not panning out exactly as Jas imagines…

Should the past be left where it is, or could there be a second chance at love on the horizon..?

Published Date: 6 July 2023

My Review

Jas, recently fired, joins old high school friends for a holiday in Italy organized by her now-married ex, Maxi. She’s part of a past love triangle involving Mike and Cam. The reunion takes a surprising turn when Clarky’s island adventure disrupts the plot, followed by a swift rekindling of relationships at a spontaneous sex resort, leaving the author’s attempt at character growth and plot development feeling rushed and unsatisfying.

The book brims with fun, laughter, and friendship—perfect ingredients for a delightful summer read. I found myself laughing out loud, particularly during the holiday resort games! It’s a feel-good story emphasizing the importance of good friends for the soul.

My Rating

Book Review – Sunny Days On The Boardwalk By Georgina Troy

Slip on your sunglasses, Spring has sprung on the Boardwalk! When artist Jools Jones’, new man Finn Gallichan, leaves the Boardwalk to go travelling for several months she’s not too worried.
She has her paintings to keep her busy and helps her grandmother run their second hand bookshop, Boardwalk Books.
She’s happy to wait for Finn’s return, to pick up where they left off, as absence makes the heart grow fonder – right?
She’s soon drawn into helping Alan Hidrio trace a copy of a book he wrote years before and meets glass artist Marius Arnesen, who, fascinated by her paintings, offers her a place in an art exhibition.
When she begins to suspect that Finn isn’t quite the person she had hoped and Marius steps up to save someone close to her, she wonders if maybe she’s made the wrong decision…
Can Jools rely on her instincts? Or should she risk the chance of a future with Marius?

Published Date: 15 July 2023

My Review

“Sunny Days on the Boardwalk” follows Jools Jones in her island town, managing daily life and a long-distance relationship with Finn. The picturesque setting and charming elderly characters add to the appeal, while Jools’ likable nature earns readers’ support. However, the novel falls short in character depth, with love interests feeling flat and lacking tension. The delayed introduction of conflict and its low stakes disappoint, resolving too easily. Despite these drawbacks, the book provides a pleasant afternoon read with a satisfying happy ending for the main characters. While not leaving a lasting impression, “Sunny Days on the Boardwalk” offers a feel-good escape into an idyllic seaside setting.

My Rating

Book Review – Overnight Inheritance By Rachel Bailey

A fortune isn’t the only thing she inherited… Mae Dunstan just inherited billions, along with a seductive business rival. CEO and single dad Sebastian Newport wants to buy Mae out. But when the boardroom leads to the bedroom, their passionate affair reignites a long-standing feud between their families. Amid divided loyalties and open questions, will Mae risk more than the bottom line for a future with Sebastian?

Published Date: 26 December 2023

My Review

In this eagerly anticipated book, Mae and Sebastian, hailing from different worlds and caught in a family feud, discover an undeniable spark. Mae, unexpectedly inheriting billions from the Rutherford family, battles trust issues upon meeting business partner Sebastian, a single dad working for a company entwined in a shared ownership with the Rutherfords. As Mae navigates her new life in New York, Sebastian proposes she spend a week learning the business, unaware he might lose his heart to her. Amidst a backdrop of a longstanding family feud, the story unfolds with emotional depth, sensuality, and resilience. This moving tale of love and overcoming obstacles is a must-read for romance enthusiasts, leaving readers cheering for Mae and Sebastian’s happiness.

My Rating

Book Review – Miami Marriage Pact By Nadine Gonzalez

Miami Marriage Pact by Nadine Gonzalez Love has nothing to do with this proposal… Film producer Gigi Garcia needs her inheritance to save her company, but it requires a husband—fast! All she has to do is convince rising Miami chef Myles Paris to marry her. Surprised by addictive passion, Gigi and Myles face off against professional rivals, erupting scandal and an enemy’s revenge. And now an unexpected secret could take their short-term marriage merger off the table…

Published Date: 26 December 2023

My Review

In “Miami Marriage Pact” by Nadine Gonzalez, film producer Gigi Garcia faces an unusual inheritance condition: she must marry to access it. Desperate to save her business, she proposes a marriage of convenience to chef Myles Paris, aiming to solve their financial woes. Both characters are likable and altruistic, seeking the money not for personal gain but to support their struggling businesses. The story unfolds with familial opposition, meddling friends, and a potential media scandal, adding unexpected challenges. Despite being part of the Miami Famous series, this book stands alone, delivering a well-executed plot with enjoyable characters. The narrative’s focus on selfless motivations sets it apart, making “Miami Marriage Pact” a compelling and satisfying read.

My Rating

Book Review – Together In Lilacwell By Sasha Morgan

Will they find their happy-ever-after in Lilacwell?

Eva needs a change. After a tragic miscarriage and breaking up with her unsupportive boyfriend, she is desperate for a new start somewhere peaceful, where she can focus on her pottery.

It is in The Cobbled Courtyard of Lilacwell that she meets the mysterious Fitz, a carpenter who similarly escaped to the tiny village a few years ago.

But can you ever really run away from your past? Eva and Fitz – two wounded souls – will need to help each other heal if they’re to find love and happiness once more.

Published Date: 3 August 2023

My Review

Eva, seeking change after a miscarriage and breakup, finds solace in the Cobbled Courtyard, where she focuses on her pottery. There, she encounters Fitz, a skilled wood carver with a mysterious past in Lilacwell. Their immediate connection hints at mutual healing as they confront their respective challenges. This charming small-town romance offers a delightful and easily digestible read, making it enjoyable from beginning to end. While it stands well on its own, delving into the other Lilacwell stories enhances the overall experience. Reading the trilogy in order is recommended for maximum enjoyment.

My Rating

Book Review – Twins For The Holidays By Jacquelin Thomas

Could an accidental marriage…

Become happily-ever-after?

Rayne Rothchild returns to Polk Island after years away. She left her husband after their impulsive marriage. She can’t believe she wed her boss, Taylor Carrington…and now she’s the mother of their twins! The holiday season is the perfect time to reconnect with her estranged family…until Taylor shows up, hurt, shocked and needing answers. Can the magic of the season open their hearts to love and forgiveness this Christmas? 

From Harlequin Heartwarming: Wholesome stories of love, compassion and belonging.

Published Date: 28 November 2023

My Review

Rayne Rothchild is resolute about shielding her twins from the judgments tied to her mother’s past affair with a married man. Leaving Los Angeles without informing the father of her babies, she believes it’s a protective measure, assuming he never expressed a desire for marriage or fatherhood. However, when Taylor discovers the truth, he unexpectedly steps up, challenging Rayne’s expectations. Now faced with the decision of whether to proceed with a divorce or explore the potential for their friendship and growing attraction to evolve into something more, including love.

Taylor and Rayne’s narrative was delightful – he served as her boss, but their connection extended to friendship. Opting for a divorce initially, their situation takes a turn when Rayne discovers she’s pregnant. She flees, prompting Taylor to exhaust all efforts to locate her. The book thoroughly enjoyable, as both characters grappled with substantial baggage.

My Rating

Book Review – The Agent By Kimberly Kincaid

Nothing rattles stone-cold FBI Agent Kai Roman. Not chasing down ruthless criminals. Not the grief of losing his wife years ago. Not even inadvertently being caught in the middle of a bank robbery.

Except Camila Garza is right beside him when danger strikes, and suddenly he’s the only person who can protect the off-limits beauty. No matter how much her older brother hates him.

And no matter how much he secretly wants her.

Camila knows she should hate Roman. He’s made it clear he doesn’t like her—or possibly anyone— one bit. But when they have to go on the run to save their lives, she begins to see past his icy exterior to the man who would do anything to keep her safe.

Including risk it all…

Published Date: 11 July 2023

My Review

Kai Roman, the Iceman FBI agent, maintains emotional distance from others. Camilla Garza, a middle school guidance counselor from a large family, stands in contrast with her warmth. A year ago, Roman and Camilla connected at a trivia night, but overwhelmed by feelings, Roman fled. A year later, they reunite at a bank just before a robbery, forming a connection over the traumatic event. Their journey to a happily ever after involves unraveling personal baggage amidst threats from criminals trying to harm Camilla.

The well-crafted narrative features witty dialogue, evolving three-dimensional characters, and a captivating storyline. Sweet moments, steamy scenes, thrilling action, danger, strong friendships, painful pasts, sinister forces, plot twists, imperfect characters, and a touch of humor contribute to the story’s richness. The perfect balance between romance and suspense makes this a captivating romantic suspense tale. While it’s regrettable that this concludes the series, anticipation for the new Remington Rescue Squad series is high.

My Rating