Category Archives: Book Review

Book Review – How To Keep A Husband For Ten Days By Jessica Hatch

Pretending to be married to the man you were married to… How hard can it be?!

When Lina’s oldest friends unexpectedly announce they’re coming to stay, she has to think fast. No one knows she and her husband Brown are breaking up, and so she persuades him to act as if they aren’t… After all, how hard can it be to pretend to be married for ten days?

Turns out, a lot harder than she thought. On day one, she strikes so many couple poses that she throws her back out. On day two, she gets muscle spasms from smiling too hard at her husband’s jokes. On day three, she almost has a heart attack when she puts her hand far too high up his thigh at the dinner table. And on day four, when she accidentally grazes Brown’s lips when aiming for his cheek, she almost passes out in the middle of the restaurant.

By day five, Lina is starting to realise there’s a thin line between love and hate. And while she can try to fool her friends, she can’t fool her heart. Was she too hasty calling time on her marriage? Is this more than make believe? And does she even have enough time to find out if Brown feels the same?

Published Date: 8 February 2023

My Review

The story follows Lina and Brown as they try to keep their looming divorce a secret from their friends, rediscovering love along the way. It underscores that marriages aren’t just about the rosy moments. Those initial fluttery feelings experienced during dating, the wedding, and the honeymoon eventually fade. As reality settles, challenges arise – be it both partners working, scattered socks, or strands of hair on the floor. These might not be the exact issues faced by Lina and Brown, but they’re similar. The dynamics among the characters felt real, capturing genuine life challenges. The rapport and equilibrium among them were particularly engaging.

My Rating

Book Review – Summer On The French Riviera By Jennifer Bohnet

A family reunited after a twenty-year estrangement, will discover secrets that change their lives forever… 

Gabriella Jacques, is happy to be back in her childhood home, Villa Espoir in the South of France ready to embrace fresh experiences with friends new and old and to heal some deep family scars.

Recently widowed Harriet Rogers, hopes to rebuild her family life and reconnect with Elodie, the daughter she abandoned into her mother Gabby’s care to follow her heart. But when an acquaintance from the past seeks her out, Harriet fears a secret from her past will ruin her plans.

Elodie Jacques, adores her new life in her Grandmothers old home as a freelance journalist. Her relationship with her mother is tense as she struggles to understand why her mother won’t talk to her about the past, as until their past is resolved, there can be no future.

Will these three women, all living under the same roof after two decades adrift be able to put aside the past and find harmony in the present together?

Published Date: 29 March 2023

My Review

Upon rejoining the Jacques family, the three ladies explore avenues to spend their days. Gabby focuses on rejuvenating the pool, garden, and equipping her kitchen with a range cooker. This endeavor rekindles her bond with an old friend, Colette, awakening both cherished and painful memories. Elodie dives into freelance travel journalism, works on her book, and deepens her relationship with her surfer beau. Harriet’s path seems uncertain. She procrastinates returning to painting, but when she accepts a part-time gig at an art gallery, her passion reignites, especially with the lure of her own exhibit, a prospect she hadn’t dreamed of.

This whimsical summer tale chronicles the experiences of three generations: Gabby, Harriet, and Elodie, as they commence a fresh chapter in a French villa. I was thrilled to re-immerse myself in their journey and witness their evolving life on the French Riviera.

My Rating

Book Review – You’ve Got This By Maxine Morrey

To find true love, first you have to truly love yourself…

Fleur French does not have the best of luck when it comes to life and love, and her current boyfriend Jasper is yet another person who only seems to like Fleur when she moulds herself into his idea of the perfect partner. So, when she finds herself single, jobless and homeless, Fleur has to decide if she’s ready to finally be herself – if only she knew who that was.

Matt Morgan saw things he’ll never forget when he was deployed in the military, but now back home in Wales, the recuperative powers of the stunning countryside are working their magic.  And when Fleur takes a job at his mother’s hotel, Matt senses she could benefit from that same magic – if only Fleur realised it too.

It’s hard to be yourself, when you’ve never felt you quite fitted in. But with new days come new opportunities, and as Fleur begins to flourish and find out who she really is, her luck in love might be about to change too.

Published Date: 9 May 2023

My Review

Fleur finds herself unexpectedly stranded in Wales during a trip with her boyfriend, Jasper. By its conclusion, she is alone, without a home or job. However, a turn of fortune sees her taken in by the hotel’s owner and their family, including a walking guide named Matt. Under their influence and the healing power of the mountains, Fleur embarks on a journey to understand her true self, having long conformed to societal expectations.

This story is a heartfelt exploration of self-realization, familial bonds, and love. Abandoned in her youth, Fleur’s deep-rooted fears have led her to a life of compliance and constant apology. But her encounter with Matt, the Welsh hiking guide, prompts her to embrace authenticity and courage. Observing her evolution into a self-assured individual, especially when she’s at her most vulnerable, is profoundly moving. It delves into themes of chosen family, self-acceptance, and new beginnings, emphasizing that home transcends physical structures, and the bonds we forge can be deeper than blood ties.

My Rating

Book Review – Vacation Wars By Meghan Quinn

Prepared for a good time, Tessa is thrilled to spend the weeks before her sister’s wedding at their family’s favorite vacation spot: Santorini. Sandy beaches, stonewashed houses, attractive men—it’s heaven.

But Tessa’s idea of a girls’ trip comes to a screaming halt when her sister thinks it’s high time Tessa finds some love herself. Unfortunately, Tessa forgot about the deal she made back in high school: she has to find her soulmate before her sister’s wedding. Or else.

As she dodges suitors and her sister’s pranks, Tessa finds an ally in the oh-so-dreamy Myles, her childhood crush who just so happens to work at the resort. But Myles is dealing with some family conflict of his own. He’s elated at being reunited with Tessa, but his father’s refusal to acknowledge his interest in the family business and relegating him to only grunt work casts a dark cloud.

As Tessa and Myles help navigate their way through their families’ antics, they begin to realize that their past feelings may have a future—if only they can turn their island fantasies into something real.

Published Date: 18 April 2023

My Review

Roxanne, Tessa’s sister, is set to wed at the Grecian resort they’ve frequented since childhood. Tessa has consistently been smitten with a resort staff member, Myles. This year’s visit is no exception, with Tessa still harboring strong feelings for him. Unexpectedly, she partners with Myles to ward off relentless matchmaking attempts from her sister and friends. The bond between Tessa and Myles is deeply endearing, further enriched by their shared past. Yet, it’s disheartening to see how Tessa’s friends and family often dismiss her emotions and opinions.

This novel weaves Tessa and Myles’ romance with the complexities of friendship dynamics, sibling insecurities, a tense father-son relationship, and the journey to self-advocacy. The story offers some tantalizing moments, but it’s a gradual buildup to the climax.

My Rating

Book Review – Blue Moon Haven By Janet Dailey

Kelly Jenkins heads to bucolic Blue Moon, Alabama, believing a new life will heal the two orphaned children in her care. Signing on to revive the drive-in theater seems like a worthy venture, until she discovers the property is in deep disrepair. Still, spurred on by the elderly owner’s plea, Kelly takes on the renovation, beginning with an ancient tree that needs to come down—and unexpectedly bringing on the wrath of her reclusive neighbor…

Seeing Kelly take an ax to his little girl’s favorite tree is like being struck in the heart—whatever heart Seth Morgan has left after losing his daughter. With his own attempt to buy the old drive-in thwarted, Seth reluctantly steps in to help Kelly, even offering her and her kids shelter in his home, a place that hasn’t seen a woman’s touch—or a child’s joyful laughter—in far too long…

Soon everyone is bound up in the fate of Blue Moon’s drive-in—and the new family taking root in town. Because it looks like the love blooming between Kelly and Seth just may rival any found on the silver screen…

Published Date: 25 April 2023

My Review

Kelly accepted a position to restore the Blue Moon drive-in movie theater. Her employer, an elderly woman in a nursing home, envisioned the theater’s past glory. While attempting to cut down a tree, Kelly encountered Seth, ax in hand. Their initial interactions were rocky, but a deep friendship blossomed, hinting at something more. Amidst challenges, unexpected visitors, and financial hurdles, they persevered together.

This narrative beautifully captures themes of love, grief, and new beginnings. More than just a love story, it celebrates the creation of a family and the unification of a community for a shared purpose. Both Seth and Kelly carry heavy emotional baggage from past losses, making them cautious about new emotional ties.

My Rating

Book Review – Captivated By Callie By Jennifer Bishop

Devon Steele wants his sexy new neighbor, but will her secret drive them apart?

Callie Hargraves is on the run and the sleepy beach town of Flamingo Cove seems the perfect place to hide.

She’s just starting to feel safe again when her peace is disturbed in a totally different way when her new neighbor moves in… Devon Steele. A retired military man who wants nothing more than a quiet life as a boat captain. He can tell Callie is hiding something, and he wants nothing to do with her. He’s had his fill of troublesome women in the past and is determined not to repeat his mistakes.

They manage to fight their attraction to each other until the day Callie’s secret catches up with her. With her life in danger, will Devon break his promise to himself to keep her safe?

Published Date: 11 April 2023

My Review

Callie, an author, spots something suspicious near her home and flees to Flamingo Cove, fearing she’s being pursued by the individuals she witnessed. There, she encounters her new neighbor, Devon, a grouchy retired military man with a tainted history with women. He yearns for a peaceful life as a Dive boat owner until Callie enters the scene, reshaping his perspective. The highlight for me was Callie’s fearless stance against Devon, demanding an apology for his initial sour demeanor. Their dynamic, from Devon’s internal battle over his feelings for Callie to their playful exchanges, made this a captivating read.

This romance novel seamlessly intertwines suspense, keeping readers on edge with every turn of the page. Between anticipating a romance between Devon and Callie and the looming threat from the mysterious men in the SUV, it was impossible to set the book down. It’s a must-read for every book enthusiast.

My Rating

Book Review – Funny Guy By Emma Barry

Sam can’t escape the smash hit “Lost Boy” because, well, he is the lost boy. His pop-singer ex immortalized him in a song about his childish ways, and now his comedy career is on the line.

At least he still has Bree, his best friend and confidante. Bree has always been there for Sam, but she’s never revealed her biggest secret: she’s in love with him. To help herself move on, Bree applies for her dream job across the country—and doesn’t say a thing to Sam.

But as Sam tries to resuscitate his career, he turns to Bree for support—and maybe more. In the confines of her tiny apartment, they share a different dynamic. A charged dynamic. But she’s his friend. He can’t be falling for her.

Except he is.

Are his feelings for Bree just funny business? Or is their smoldering attraction the real deal?

Published Date: 16 May 2023

My Review

Sam and Bree have been inseparable since childhood, supporting each other through tough times. While they both lead successful lives in NYC – Bree as an urban planner and Sam as a popular comedian – Bree secretly harbors deep feelings for Sam. Her love remains hidden until a song by Sam’s ex forces him to seek solace in Bree’s company, changing their dynamics. “Funny Guy” is a touching friends-to-lovers tale that delves into the complexities of unrequited love and self-discovery. Both characters are well-developed, with Bree being self-aware and Sam being more impulsive. The narrative is compelling as readers witness Sam’s journey to recognize his true feelings and the blossoming romance between the duo.

My Rating

Book Review – Strawberry Lane By Jodi Thomas

Starri Knight is a big believer in fate. How else to explain the compelling connection she feels to the stranger she pulls out of a wrecked car on the very same road where her parents died twenty years earlier? Alongside Auntie Ona-May, the only mother she’s ever known, Starri saves Rusty O’Sullivan’s life—just as Ona-May once did when Starri was an orphaned babe. But convincing Rusty he has something to live for is going to take all of Starri’s faith in miracles . . .

Like a wish he hadn’t even known to make, Starri landed in Rusty’s life, filling him with a longing for a family. . . . Then Jackson Landry, a new lawyer, turns up to present a surprise that will change the direction of his life: An inheritance from the father Rusty never knew—and the promise of the family he’d never had. It’s a lot for the hard-bitten loner to accept as love rushes into his life . . .

A sense of duty has Rusty heading to Honey Creek to deal with his father’s estate—and find his lost siblings. But having family is one thing, learning to love them is another. Good thing new friends are by his side to help him along the way.

Published Date: 25 April 2023

My Review

Rusty O’Sullivan has always felt like an outsider. On a stormy evening, he crashes his car on his way home. He’s saved by his neighbors, Ona-Mae and the kind-hearted Starri Knight, who take him to their cozy cabin. The town’s doctor, alongside his close friend, lawyer Jackson Landry, rush on horseback to tend to Rusty, awaiting the ambulance which is hindered by the blocked road. This accident sparks a chain of events, forging unexpected bonds and changing Rusty’s life in unimaginable ways.

“Strawberry Lane” is a touching tale of love, sorrow, joy, despair, and ultimately, victory. It perfectly captures the essence of a heartfelt romance that’s both simple and deeply relatable. The story boasts a range of captivating characters, some instantly lovable, while others remain mysterious. Starri is truly enchanting, and Ona-Mae’s charisma is infectious. Overall, it’s a delightful read that stirs deep emotions.

My Rating

Book Review – New Beginnings In The Little Irish Village By Michelle Vernal

Welcome to the little Irish village of Emerald Bay where the sun is shining, the locals are gossiping, and romance is in the air. But will returning home be the fresh start Imogen Kelly needs?

Thirty-two-year-old Imogen Kelly is meant to be living her best life in Dublin but the bright lights of the city aren’t making her truly happy. So she leaps at the chance to take on an interior design job at the big country manor at the edge of Emerald Bay. It also gives Imogen an excuse to return to the place where she spent an unforgettable summer with her first love, Lachlan Leslie, the heir to Benmore House.

Imogen’s heart is full of hope at the thought of seeing her childhood sweetheart but on the way there she nearly has an accident on the winding, muddy country road. She arrives at Benmore House late and flustered, only to discover the builder working with her on the renovation project is none other than Ryan O’Malley – the class prankster who was forever pinging her bra strap at school.

Within seconds it’s clear he’s still a cheeky charmer, even if he’s transformed into a gorgeous guy who unexpectedly sets her pulse racing. Forced into close proximity with relentlessly cheerful Ryan, who’s forever (badly) singing rock ballads at the top of his voice, Imogen at first finds him an annoying distraction.

With St Patrick’s Day celebrations in full swing, Imogen has her work cut out to keep the job on track. Spending more time with Ryan, she discovers that, behind his warm smile and generous ways, he’s nursing heartache. But when she finally sees blue-eyed Lachlan again,Imogen has to face up to the truth about the secret summer romance they shared.

Published Date: 4 May 2023

My Review

Imogen, who now lives in Dublin with a thriving interior design business, returns to her hometown, Emerald Bay, for a design job at Benmore House. She hopes to confront past feelings for her childhood sweetheart, but on her way there, she narrowly avoids an accident when she stops for ducks crossing the road. To her surprise, the other driver involved is her former school rival, Ryan O’Malley. Though their reunion starts off tense, it turns out Ryan is also working on the Benmore project as a builder. Over time, their relationship becomes friendly, and Imogen realizes there’s more depth to Ryan than she thought. He returned to Emerald Bay from London to care for his ailing father and has embraced the comforts of village life.

The story revolves around families, self-discovery, and fresh starts, featuring a witty narrative and unique characters. Imogen, a successful businesswoman, grapples with finding her true love. Her journey is peppered with choices between various men and is backed by the unwavering support of her close-knit family and best friend. It’s a delightful read filled with heartwarming moments.

My Rating

Book Review – CEO’s Pregnant Lover By Leslie North

Never mix business with pleasure…

Klutzy, adorable Brianna Daughtry is nothing like the women Trent Caldwell is usually attracted to. The handsome, cold-hearted billionaire goes for bimbos and eye-candy who look good on his arm, women who won’t make a fuss when things end. But Brianna, his new temporary assistant, is nothing like that at all…

She’s the sort of woman who can make a man’s heart beat faster. And make him wish he were a different man…a better man. The type of woman Trent usually avoids at all costs. Except, he can’t. And even if he could, his heart doesn’t want to…

Brianna can’t believe someone like Trent could be remotely attracted to her. But she can’t deny that his smoldering looks, his lingering touches, and his intoxicating kisses tell her otherwise. Yes, he’s maddeningly overbearing and arrogant. But somehow, the alpha businessman has a sweet side as well.

Even with Trent’s old nemesis casting a shadow over their happiness, it seems her dreams of forever may come true. Until a devastating turn of events threatens to tear everything they’ve built apart…

Published Date: 20 April 2023

My Review

Briana affects Trent differently than anyone ever has. She isn’t combative or forceful, yet with her calm demeanor, she easily disarms him. Her occasional sass combined with her vulnerability awakens Trent’s protective side. She makes him desire something unprecedented for him: a commitment to eternity.

I’m captivated by how Briana, with her subtle and efficient nature, throws a usually self-assured Trent off balance. Seeing him uncertain and rethinking his moves is endearing. However, this gentle narrative takes a distressing turn, leading to a tragic event that reflects every parent’s deepest fear. This forces Trent to confront his inability to shield Briana and Faith from relentless adversaries. The story’s conclusion was a disappointment for me. The abrupt change in tone was unsettling. While I grasped why Trent became so dominant in Briana’s life, I wished she’d asserted herself more. Still, given its brevity, the story accomplishes a lot.

My Rating