Category Archives: Book Review

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

Book Review – A Midnight Kiss On Ever After Street By Jaimie Admans

A picture-perfect town, a place where dreams come true. Welcome to Ever After Street…

Will a kiss at midnight change her life forever?

Sadie Winters has spent her whole life doing as she’s told. But when her overbearing aunt forbids her from going to the farewell ball at the beloved local castle, Sadie has had enough!

One magical makeover, one midnight curfew, and wearing a dress of her own creation, Sadie is unrecognizable as Ever After Street’s shy seamstress.

Sadie might dream of meeting a handsome prince but the only person to cross her path is Witt – the slightly awkward estate agent intending to sell the castle and dash Sadie’s dreams forever.

As the clock strikes midnight, Sadie and Witt share a magical kiss and Sadie knows her heart is in serious danger. Surely Witt must feel the same way…? Sadie can’t hang around to find out.

But as reality dawns the next day, and fate brings Witt to Sadie’s door again, Sadie realises that her mystery estate agent prince has absolutely no idea who she is!

Sadie can’t forget their midnight kiss, but is she brave enough to change her life and find love along the way…?

Published Date: 4 July 2023

My Review

Sadie, employed at the Cinderella Shop, stitches dresses for her Aunt after her parents’ tragic car crash. Despite the shop being destined for her, Aunt Ebony refuses to pass it on. One night, Sadie, craving something for herself, attends the Castle ball in a self-sewn gown and mask. Meeting her Prince Charming, Witt, she flees at midnight, expecting to never cross paths again. However, Witt seeks her help the next day to find the mystery woman from the ball. As Sadie aids Witt, can she keep the secret that she is the one he’s searching for?

This book, a Cinderella tale with a twist, features vibrant and funny characters. The storyline, filled with laughter and cheers, takes readers on an enjoyable journey with Sadie, who believes in magic and true love. Her Cinderella-like story unfolds in the Ever After Castle, where she falls in love at first sight. However, her midnight escape, driven by her evil Aunt, and the lost shoe lead to a humorous escapade as Witt attempts to find the owner.

My Rating

Book Review – Love Quest By Camilla Isley

She didn’t go to the jungle to meet the man of her dreams. Luckily, Dr Logan Spencer is NOT the man of her dreams!

As epic meet-cutes go, travel photographer, Winter Knowles thinks finding a gorgeous naked man outside her Thailand villa is pretty perfect. But then she discovers the naked heartthrob is none other than Dr Logan Spencer, her gruff standoffish (but sexy as hell) jungle expedition leader.

Dr Logan is on the mission of a lifetime. There’s a lost city of gold to discover and he doesn’t need any distractions – especially not the stubborn, sassy beautiful photographer type! His reputation is on the line.

These arch rivals get off on the wrong foot. But when the heat rises in the jungle, Winter and Logan are forced together in the face of danger. Is trusting someone with your life the best meet-cute of all?

Published Date: 8 July 2023

My Review

Winter, a secretive photographer on assignment in Thailand, anticipates an extraordinary journey capturing detailed evidence. Meanwhile, Dr. Logan Spencer, an esteemed archaeologist, leads a team to uncover a hidden city. Logan, skeptical of Winter’s role, expects her to be a distraction. Their clash begins immediately, fueling mutual dislike. As the expedition takes a dramatic turn, Winter and Logan’s relationship evolves into a survival battle, intertwined with escalating chemistry.

A delightful read filled with action, adventure, danger, banter, and the classic “will they/won’t they” suspense. While I noticed a few minor plot holes that didn’t completely round out the book for me, overall, it offered a quick, enjoyable experience. It featured tense and scary moments, but the evolution of the relationships added a fun element to follow.

My Rating

Book Review – A Month In Provence By Gillian Harvey

Interior designer Nicky always used to know how to make the best of things. Ever since she lost her husband though, things haven’t been easy. She’s had to raise her two daughters alone and she’s so proud to see them all grown up, and she knows that’s down to her. But she can’t help but feel like she doesn’t know what to do with her life now…

Then her best friend begs her to help out. Jenny is a TV exec and her new renovation show is in peril. Only Nicky can help.

The catch – Nicky needs to fly to Provence… tomorrow. To renovate a tumbledown B&B. Jenny doesn’t mention the fact that the grumpy B&B owner Robert seems to need a makeover too. Or that the budget is next to nothing…

Will Nicky be able to turn the B&B’s fortunes around, save her best friend’s job, and maybe even find some happiness for herself, under the blazing hot French sun this summer…?

Published Date: 11 July 2023

My Review

After a decade as a widow, Nicky struggled to move beyond the tragic car accident that claimed her husband. Initially absorbed in raising her now-grown daughters, she had set aside her own dreams. Jenny’s enticing proposition became an unexpected challenge Nicky had unknowingly awaited.

Arriving in Provence to revamp a rundown B&B, Nicky faced the daunting task. Meeting Robert, the widower owner, she realized she might have taken on more than she could handle. Robert, grappling with his own challenges, lacked people skills and appropriate attire. Together, could Nicky and Robert turn the dreams he shared with his late wife into reality, fostering confidence, winning the competition, and possibly finding happiness with newfound perspectives on life?

The charm of this book lies in its middle-aged protagonists, Nicky and Robert, both grappling with personal heartaches. At a juncture in life where a gentle push might break them free from their respective ruts, their journey unfolds with joy as they rediscover themselves and breathe new life into the venerable old B&B.

This book, truly radiates sweetness and warmth. It seamlessly blends humor, touching moments, and a love-filled narrative. It has the power to nestle into your heart, leaving you with a radiant smile and a deep sense of happiness in your soul.

My Rating

Book Review – Second Chances For The Lifeboat Sisters By Tilly Tennant

In the tiny village of Port Promise, where the wind tangles your hair and the cobbled streets twist down to the honeycomb beaches, Clara Morrow is planning her wedding.

After a whirlwind romance, Clara is excitedly planning her wedding to her handsome fiancé Logan in the picture-perfect Cornish village of Port Promise, with her mother and three sisters at her side.

She will never forget the day when she first caught sight of artist Logan, the sea-mist curling the ends of his dark hair, as he strode across the gorse-covered cliffs near the village. She feels so lucky that Logan seems happy to make her home his own, painting on the windswept Cornish beaches and calling in for lunch at the fish shack where she works with her best friend.

But when Logan inherits a beautiful house in London and reveals that he wants them to build a life there, it’s a huge shock for Clara. She knows it could be an amazing new start, but when she thinks about leaving her family behind, her heart aches.

Suddenly it seems like she and Logan have very different dreams. Can they find a way back to their happy ever after or will the mismatched lives they want threaten everything they have built together?

Published Date: 14 July 2023

My Review

Clara, distinct from her more outgoing sisters Ava and Gaby, feels stuck in a life where she believes she has compromised her dreams for Logan’s career. Despite her engagement, Clara senses imperfections in their relationship, especially as Logan seems disconnected from Port Promise. Cormac, the charismatic Irishman, becomes a notable contrast to Logan. As Clara navigates her emotions, Logan’s shortcomings become increasingly apparent, and when he inherits a house in London, the couple faces a dilemma. Clara must decide whether to compromise her identity for Logan’s desires or remain true to herself. The latter part of the book explores Clara’s emotional struggle, leading to a surprising turn of events. “Second Chances for the Lifeboat Sisters” delivers a heartwarming tale of love, choices, and second chances, making the Morrow sisters’ stories captivating reads.

My Rating

Book Review – Happy Ever After For The Cornish Midwife By Jo Bartlett

Midwife Jess is so used to helping other mums achieve their dreams that she’s put her own hopes of motherhood firmly on hold. After having her heart broken once before, Jess is determined to focus all she has on her small family and stepson Riley and make sure he feels safe, happy and loved.

But when Jess is asked to care for a tiny baby and new mum in need of support, she’s torn. Jess wants to help, but she isn’t sure her battered heart could cope with saying goodbye to another baby she’s fallen in love with.

Jess knows this could be the happy ever after she’s always dreamed of, but what if it costs her more heartache along the way? Is she brave enough to take one last chance at motherhood?

Published Date: 5 July 2023

My Review

Midwife Jess, deeply passionate about her vocation, cherishes the privilege of dedicating her days to it. However, her career choices have come at a personal cost, as she realizes she may have forfeited her own dreams of motherhood. Despite this, the optimistic Jess chooses to focus on her existing family, including her stepson Riley. When presented with the opportunity to care for a newborn and a struggling mother, Jess faces an unprecedented test, grappling with the possibility of sacrificing her dreams and the fear of enduring another heartbreak. Now, Jess stands at a crossroads, contemplating whether to embrace this chance, listening to her heart, or potentially regretting a decision to turn away from a mother and baby in need.

Centered on a midwifery unit in the village of Port Agnes, The Cornish Midwife series concludes beautifully with Happily Ever After for the Cornish Midwife. The enchanting setting captures the essence of home, and the characters, with their endearing qualities, extend not only mutual support but also contribute to the well-being of their community and its surroundings.

My Rating

Book Review – Beginning Of Forever By Catherine Bybee

Tasting wine is not enough: sommelier Giovanni D’Angelo wants to create it. To put his family first, he’s always deferred his dreams—a vineyard to run, a woman to marry. But a three-week vineyard tour in Italy could set him back on track.

For Emma Rutledge, wine is in her blood. Intent to run the family wine business one day, she finds that the men in her family are only intent to push her out of it. But that’s fine—she’s got a plan.

When Gio and Emma meet on a wine tour in Tuscany, their shared aspirations fuel an undeniable chemistry. Returning home to California, they work toward setting up Emma’s vineyard and a label of their own. But when Emma receives a life-altering diagnosis, she worries it’s all been for nothing.

As Emma works to cement her family legacy while dealing with this unexpected challenge, Gio tries to convince her that their future isn’t just wine.

It’s each other.

Published Date: 27 June 2023

My Review

Emma Rutledge and Giovanni D’Angelos both receive wine tours to Tuscany for their thirtieth birthdays. Unbeknownst to them, they end up on the same tour, discovering a connection beyond the vineyards. Gio, a sommelier from San Diego’s Little Italy, dreams of owning a vineyard. Emma, the daughter of R&R Wineries’ owner, seeks independence after her ex-husband becomes her boss. As they explore the Tuscan countryside, sparks fly, and a special bond forms.

Back in California, Gio supports Emma’s quest for a vineyard, helping her break free from her father’s control. Their relationship deepens, facing challenges together. When Emma is diagnosed with a rare genetic condition, Gio remains by her side, strengthening their connection. The story combines humor, romance, and memorable characters, with Gio proving to be the ideal partner. The Tuscan setting, delightful characters, and vivid descriptions enhance the reading experience, making “Beginning of Forever” by Catherine Bybee a recommended and enjoyable read.

My Rating

Book Review – The Lucky Shamrock By Carolyn Brown

Family doesn’t mean everyone has to like each other. That’s the case when cousins Taryn, Anna Rose, and Jorja return to Shamrock, Texas, to help manage their grandmother’s flower shop, the Lucky Shamrock. The reunion isn’t exactly a beautiful arrangement—considering they’re as compatible as ranchers and coyotes.

Thank heaven for a handsome go-between like Clinton, who lives above the shop. The easygoing war vet, and most eligible bachelor in Wheeler County, is now throwing romance into the mix and setting the local women to gossiping. But as the hot months wear on, hidden secrets begin to surface for the temperamental Irish trio. And it’s bringing them closer together than they ever thought possible.

With a flurry of weddings, a love story in the making, a surprise baby, and crazy good fortune, maybe that shamrock painted on the window does bring luck. Because for Taryn, Anna Rose, and Jorja, this could be the summer that’ll change their lives forever.

Published Date: 4 July 2023

My Review

Taryn, Anna Rose, and Jorja return to their hometown, Shamrock, TX, agreeing to assist in their grandmother’s flower shop, The Lucky Shamrock, as she cares for her friend Ruby post-hip surgery. Unbeknownst to them, each cousin harbors secrets, leading them to rely on one another more than anticipated. Residing above the shop is Clinton, an attractive war veteran with family wealth, deemed the town’s most eligible bachelor. Despite several ladies vying for his hand in marriage, Clinton is dedicated to supporting veterans with PTSD. Remarkably, he even considers temporary custody of a charming baby to help one of his fellow vets seek assistance.

The book is a heartwarming tale of these women’s transformation from reluctant helpers to supportive friends, emphasizing love, tenacity, and strength in the face of challenges. The trio faces challenges, from mean girls to family dynamics. The surprise ending has a profound impact, with a particular character confronting their issues. Amidst the main story, a subtle romance develops between Taryn and Clinton, growing through shared responsibilities and friendship. The satisfying epilogue offers a glimpse into everyone’s lives a year later.

My Rating