Book Review – Page 111

Book Review – The Recipe For Happiness By Jane Lovering

When Seren’s brother Andrew signs her up to Yorkshire Dating, only for them to recommend that she ‘gets a life’ before they find her a match, Seren has to admit that they may have a point.

She loves her job cooking at an elder day centre and her little flat, but it’s fair to say her life is a little short of hobbies and friends. Since she was young Seren has felt safer close to home, but now she’s a thirty-something divorcee, it’s time for a change.

Change arrives in the shape of alarmingly clever collie Kez, who Seren offers to take in ‘temporarily’, and kind but mysterious new colleague Ned. But as Ned and Kez tempt Seren out of her shell, it means facing her fears. And when Andrew finally reveals the secrets of their childhood, Seren’s need for safety suddenly makes sense.

A problem shared is a problem halved, and with friends by her side, Seren might be able to get a life that she loves at last.

Published Date: 9 June 2023

My Review

Seren is content in her routine life, overseeing a senior care center and living in an apartment just above it. Despite her satisfaction, her newly-wedded brother, Andrew, believes she’s missing out on life. He nudges her into unfamiliar territories, from online dating to playing Dungeons & Dragons, and even persuading her to aid in dog training. Through interactions with Ned, a new employee, and Kez, a dog she’s hesitantly looking after, Seren gradually steps out of her bubble. Her discomfort makes her reflect on her past and what might have held her back.

The story is a heartwarming journey of hope, promoting messages of acceptance and inclusivity. It features a diverse set of characters, each with their unique challenges, transcending age, gender, and background. Having grown up under her brother’s care after their parents’ passing, Seren has always kept herself guarded. Yet, with Ned’s support, who has battles of his own, and Kez’s unwavering loyalty, they find healing, rekindling a zest for life and love. Their story unfolds within a vibrant community, emphasizing the healing power of companionship and second chances at happiness.

My Rating

Book Review – The World Outside My Window By Clare Swatman

Laura is watching the world go by without her.

Unable to leave her house since suffering a trauma, Laura is stuck gazing out of her window at Willow Crescent, relying on husband Jim and best friend Debbie for help.

Then one day, Jim doesn’t come home.

A day becomes two, days become a week, and still no sign of Jim. And with the police half-hearted in their efforts to look for him, Laura is forced into a decision. She’s going to have to face the world outside and find her husband herself.

But what Laura hasn’t realised is that Willow Crescent is a community, eager to help. From Arthur and Carol next door ready to rally the neighbours, to Marjorie and her daughter Faye at number nine looking for their own reasons to engage with the world. From Sonja at number seven who thinks she may have seen Jim in London, to widower Ben at number four who understands all about being lonely. Laura has a world ready to embrace her if she can just find the nerve.

And when it slowly dawns on them all, that the Jim they thought they knew, may have been hiding some unfathomable secrets, Laura has a choice – retreat back behind her window, or start living the life that was waiting for her all along.

Published Date: 5 June 2023

My Review

Following a traumatic attack in London, chef Laura becomes agoraphobic and moves to the suburbs with her husband, Jim. Her increasing dependence on him strains their relationship, and she resorts to alcohol when lonely. When Jim mysteriously doesn’t return from a trip, Laura is forced to seek help from her neighbors.

This book addresses relationships, trauma, and mental health with a mix of first-person and third-person narratives. While the portrayal of relationships and emotional manipulation is commendable, Laura’s failure to notice red flags over seven years seems implausible. The shifting perspectives can disrupt the reading flow, and the plot progresses predictably. Despite its shortcomings, the book offers insights into Laura’s emotional journey, though it may not resonate with all readers.

My Rating

Book Review – Sheikh’s Accidental Pregnancy By Leslie North

Sometimes opposites attract…

When Sarah starts work at the Botros Oil Company, she doesn’t expect the tall and stunningly sexy CEO to be so rude, arrogant, and argumentative. He obviously doesn’t approve of his brother hiring her.

Sheikh Tariq Botros has never met anyone like Sarah. She has no respect for tradition. She’s clumsy, stubborn, unladylike, and talks far too much. She also isn’t intimidated by him. In fact, she openly challenges him. Just talking to her is an exercise in frustration.

After a heated argument leads to an unforgettable night of passion, they both agree it can never happen again. But there are consequences to their unprotected encounter, and they’re forced to come to terms with their feelings and the explosive attraction between them.

Published Date: 25 May 2023

My Review

In the first book of the Botros Brothers series, Sara Matthews, a recent engineering graduate, arrives in Kithab, Middle East, to work in the oil fields. Interviewed by VP Amir Botros for a junior engineer and an assistant position, she’s soon hired for the latter. Sara builds a rapport with Amir but clashes with the traditional CEO, Sheikh Tariq Botros, who disapproves of her. Curious about an unexplored oil field, Sara independently investigates it, further angering Tariq. However, an unexpected intimate encounter between them leads to Sara’s pregnancy. Tariq’s grandmother, Fiddah, discovers Sara’s condition and ensures her well-being. Tariq, realizing his responsibilities, moves Sara into his home. Despite initial conflicts, their mutual attraction grows. Fiddah’s intervention helps Tariq confront his feelings for Sara.

What stood out for me was Sara’s intelligence and dedication. I appreciated Tariq’s depth; while he’s stern, Sara brings out his lighter side. Notably, the author allows the couple ample time—a realistic nine months—to recognize and nurture their love. However, the subplot involving Tariq’s mother felt unnecessary. I also think the narrative could benefit from more depth to intensify its emotional impact. The series promises further intriguing tales of romance and tradition.

My Rating

Book Review – An Invitation To Seashell Bay By Bella Osborne

One ambitious businesswoman.

One irresponsible heir.

A deal that will turn both their lives upside down…

To grow her craft business, Nancy is in desperate need of two things: help and money. So when a potential investor she’s looking to impress recommends an assistant, she jumps at the chance to secure both.

Freddy Astley-Davenport is a notorious playboy with zero work experience. He’s poised to inherit his family’s estate in sunny Seashell Bay – but only if he can hold down a job for six months first. His plan is to take the assistant role in name only, then do the least work he possibly can.

Nancy has other ideas, though, and the pair butt heads from day one. However, as they argue, sparks begin to fly, and they soon discover exactly why opposites attract…

Published Date: 20 July 2023

My Review

Nancy’s craft enterprise is on the brink of collapse without a new profitable deal. Her presentation flops, yet a glimmer of hope arises when Freddy steps in. Freddy, born into wealth and unacquainted with work, must prove he can handle a job to gain control of his family’s estate. In return, he hints at providing Nancy the much-needed contract. As her assistant, he’s not ideal, but shines when he takes an injured Nancy to recuperate at his Seashell Bay family estate, exposing her to a lavish lifestyle.

Parallel to this is another captivating narrative. Nancy’s flatmate, Alice, is experiencing London’s allure while working as a teaching assistant. A memorable kiss at a club haunts her, especially when the man reemerges as a parent of a student in her class. Alice presumes he’s taken until a vacation revelation suggests he might be attainable.

These intertwined romance stories are linked primarily by their main characters, Nancy Barraclough and Alice Pelling, who cohabit, discuss their dilemmas, and give each other love advice. The tale is a delightful romantic escapade filled with vivid personalities and set amidst a beautiful backdrop.

My Rating

Book Review – Navy SEAL’s Innocent Italian By Leslie North

Romance and revenge are a deadly combination…

Former Navy SEAL Jake Travers’s mission is simple… Tail Marco Bresi, the man who once kidnapped billionaire Trent Caldwell’s baby, so Trent can find out what he’s up to now. But Jake never expected to find an intoxicatingly beautiful woman alongside the shady character he’s following.

Alexandra Moretti may be smart, gorgeous, and the most captivating woman Jake has ever met. But as far as he’s concerned, she’s the key to getting close to Marco. But as Jake gets closer to her, his attraction becomes an addiction. And soon, he can’t imagine life without her…

After a disastrous arranged engagement, Alexandra is looking to escape Italy, so she allows Marco to bring her to the U.S. as a favor to her father. But the second she meets the ruggedly handsome Jake, she finds herself drawn to him. Something about his smoldering blue eyes and commanding presence makes her feel safe and protected. And she knows he desires her as much as she desires him…

But will their steamy affair come to an end when Alex uncovers Jake’s true motives?

Published Date: 11 May 2023

My Review

Jake is tasked with keeping an eye on Bresi, the antagonist. However, he becomes infatuated with Alexandra, who’s accompanying Bresi to the US. Hoping to leverage his relationship with her to get to Bresi, Jake unexpectedly finds himself genuinely falling for Alexandra, complicating matters of disclosure. On the other hand, Alex, elated to be in America, is taken by surprise when she encounters the charismatic Jake. As their whirlwind romance intensifies, questions of trust and familial ties arise.

The book showcases palpable sexual tension and passionate exchanges between the protagonists. Despite their instant attraction, which some might find accelerated, their bond feels genuine. The narrative takes a twist when Alex discovers Jake’s true intentions, leading her to distance herself, focusing on her musical aspirations. Recognizing he can’t live without her, Jake devises a plan, with his friends’ aid, to win her back and reveal the whole truth

My Rating

Book Review – Charm Me By Samantha Chase

There isn’t anyone in Laurel Bay he hasn’t been able to charm.

But charming a baby is a whole different story.

Life has never been better for Jamie Donovan. Always has been. And now that it’s his turn to take charge of the family pub, he truly feels like everything in his life is just the way it’s supposed to be. Or it was until an early morning knock on his door ended with a baby on his doorstep. The man who can normally charm his way out of any situation doesn’t know the first thing about taking care of a baby and running a business. And so he turns to his siblings for help.

And once they tell him their solution, he wishes he’d never asked for help.

Fallon Murphy has always prided herself on being good with people. In all her life, she’s only met one person she hasn’t been able to get along with. Unfortunately, their parents are best friends and avoiding him just wasn’t a choice. When his sister calls stating an emergency, the last thing Fallon expects is to find an abandoned baby – one that belong to Jamie. As much as she’d love nothing more than to see Jamie fail at something, she would never put an innocent child at risk.

They’re rivals.

Sworn enemies.

And now…roommates.

Can one small baby help turn adversaries into lovers? Or maybe even…a family?

Published Date: 23 May 2023

My Review

Jamie is ecstatic to oversee his family’s pub during his parents’ extended vacation, with aspirations to introduce some changes. However, his world shifts when an ex-flame unexpectedly leaves a baby at his door, claiming it’s his. As typical of the Donovans, the family unites to assist Jamie. In comes Fallon, Jamie’s former rival, now jobless and the ideal nanny candidate. As they collaborate, Jamie and Fallon begin to view each other in a new light, with Jamie recognizing past feelings for her. Once adversaries, they now coexist under one roof, caring for a baby and navigating emerging emotions.

I was captivated by Jamie and Fallon’s dynamic and Jamie’s transition to fatherhood and committed relationship. The book’s portrayal of family relationships is commendable, and the supporting characters enrich the story. The narrative’s emphasis on seeking mental health support and acknowledging vulnerabilities stands out. This engaging tale was an enjoyable, swift read that left me yearning for more.

My Rating

Book Review – How To Kiss Your Enemy By Jenny Proctor

How is it possible for the chemistry between two chefs to be hotter than a ghost pepper yet colder than liquid nitrogen?

When THE Tatum Elliott shows up to run the catering kitchen at my family’s farm and event center, I don’t trust her anymore than I did back in culinary school.

But like it or not, she’s here. On my territory. My turf. In the kitchen that shares a building with my farm-to-table restaurant.

And she can’t seem to keep her hands off my parmesan.

Our old rivalry flares to life faster than a flambé, but there’s something else flaming between us too. And it’s heating up quicker than anything we’re making in the kitchen.

But I can’t forget that Tatum is the daughter of Christopher Elliott—America’s most famous chef. She belongs in a big city, in a restaurant with her name on it. Not running the catering arm of Stonebrook Farm.

Whatever her reasons for being here now, I can’t see her permanently walking away from the fame and fortune her father can offer her, no matter how well she fits in on the farm—how well she fits with me.

She’ll leave eventually—I’m sure of it. I just have to make sure that when she does, she doesn’t take my heart with her.

Published Date: 9 May 2023

My Review

This book dives into the comedic romance of two chefs, Lennox and Tatum, reigniting an age-old culinary school rivalry. While Lennox carved his way to owning a restaurant, Tatum, the offspring of the famous chef Christopher Elliot, seemingly had a silver spoon in her culinary journey. Lennox is skeptical about her move from a posh LA restaurant to his family’s establishment, anticipating chaos. Their competitive nature ignites sparks, which gradually hint at deeper feelings beneath their rivalry.

This light-hearted read offers a blend of rivalry, a chef-centric theme, a charming family farm setting, and the evolution of competition into affection. Set amidst the scenic backdrop of Carolina’s woodlands, it intertwines forced closeness with genuine moments of connection. A breezy read with a dash of romance and minimal drama. For those familiar with the series, this third entry promises to be as delightful as its predecessors.

My Rating

Book Review – Winter Whimsy at Golden Sands Bay By Georgina Troy

When Lexi Davies discovers that her father has sold the fishermen’s cottages that she lives in and runs as holiday lets, she is furious and heartbroken. Lexi realises that her whole future at her beloved cottages is now over.
New owner, handsome, Scottish entrepreneur Oliver Whimsy arrives on the island in a blaze of glory and immediately upsets the locals.
When he offers Lexi her old job, she’s unsure whether to accept but needing a roof over her head for the winter, she finds herself stuck between a rock and a hard place. Pride does not pay the bills.
As they get to know one another, there’s far more to Oliver Whimsy than she or anyone else had imagined.
What heartache is Oliver trying so desperately to hide from?
And why was he so determined to buy the cottages?
Lexi is on a mission to find out…

Published Date: 19 May 2023

My Review

29-year-old Lexi inherits three fishermen’s cottages after her mother’s death, her only source of income. However, she’s stunned when Scottish businessman, Oliver Whimsy, claims he bought them from Lexi’s father. Suspicious of her father’s new girlfriend’s role in the sale, Lexi is left jobless and homeless. Oliver, showing a softer side, offers Lexi a typing job and lets her stay in a cottage. Despite the island community’s initial reservations about Oliver, Lexi discovers his true, kind-hearted nature and learns why he was so drawn to the cottages.

This is brilliantly penned by Georgina. She captivates you right from the beginning with her inviting and heartwarming narrative. While reading, it felt less like going through a book and more like a conversation with a dear friend. Georgina’s vivid descriptions made “The Broadwalk By The Sea” come to life, tempting me to vacation there instantly. I felt immersed in the story, a testament to her genuine storytelling. This book was a pure joy to read, and by the end, I felt comforted, akin to sipping a warm beverage.

My Rating

Book Review – The Wagging Tails Dogs’ Home By Sarah Hope

Life could not be busier for Ginny and the team at Wagging Tails.

The annual dog show is looming, a crucial event when it comes to fundraising and ensuring the volunteers can continue the brilliant work they do.

But their trusted newspaper reporter, who always includes them in his weekly column, is retiring, only to be replaced with a city-slicker named Darryl. And Darryl, as Ginny soon learns, has no interest in articles he deems ‘below him’.

Not one to take no as an answer, Ginny becomes determined to get him to meet the dogs themselves. One look at their cute faces and they’ll worm their way into his heart.

But what Ginny doesn’t anticipate is that Darryl might be more open-hearted than he seems. And inviting him to the dogs’ home might be the best decision she ever made – even if she doesn’t realise it at first!

Published Date: 31 May 2023

My Review

After a painful breakup, Ginny devoted 4 years to the Wagging Tails Dogs Home. As she plans their major annual fundraiser, she’s surprised to find that the local paper hasn’t advertised the event because her usual contact retired, and the new journalist, Darryl, is uninterested. Determined, Ginny tries to convince Darryl of the shelter’s importance, hoping to save the event and the shelter itself. The outcome hinges on whether she can win him over.

Initially, Ginny is perplexed by Darryl’s behavior, who is resistant to supporting the dogs’ home and comes off as arrogant. However, he unexpectedly changes his stance. As the story unfolds, the reasons behind Darryl’s behavior become clear, though Ginny struggles to move past her own prior traumas. Their budding relationship is interspersed with charming moments, including interactions with endearing dogs like Luna, whose antics are vividly described by Hope. Both protagonists face personal challenges obstructing their romance, yet the journey of overcoming these barriers while navigating the complexities of running a shelter is engaging.

My Rating

Book Review – Forever Hold Your Peace By Lisa Fenton & Lisa Steinke

Father of the Bride meets Bride Wars in Forever Hold Your Peace, in which two ex-best friends find themselves shockingly entangled after more than two decades apart, for fans of Good Company.

When their newly engaged kids ask all four divorced parents to meet each other over brunch, everyone RSVPs yes–secretly hoping someone at the table will get to the bottom of the bottomless mimosas fast enough to say what they’re all thinking: that this engagement, coming after a whirlwind romance between two people barely out of college, is too much too soon.

But at that brunch it’s not the impulsive couple’s decisions that end up under the microscope, as it turns out June, mother of the bride, and Amy, mother of the groom, certainly do know each other–they’re ex-best-friends who haven’t spoken since their explosive falling out more than twenty-five years ago. Reeling from their unwanted reunion and eager to shift the spotlight off their past as decades-old secrets and rivalries come to light, the two moms battle it out for the prize of Most Enthusiastic About This Wedding.

But when their history—and their present-day shenanigans—threaten to crack the foundations of the happy couple’s future, June and Amy find themselves becoming unexpected allies in an all-hands-on-deck effort to get their kids (and themselves) a happily-ever-after two generations in the making.

Published Date: 11 July 2023

My Review

Zach and Olivia, both Californians, meet and fall in love during an Italian vacation. Soon after, Zach proposes. As they plan their wedding, they aim to introduce their divorced parents. However, there’s a twist: Olivia’s mom and Zach’s parents share a complicated history, not having spoken for 25 years. Amidst the ensuing chaos, the question arises: Can they set aside their past for their children’s happiness? The story, reminiscent of films like “Father of the Bride” and “Monster-in-Law”, is an amusing, light-hearted read that shouldn’t be taken too seriously. It offers laughs and entertainment, despite its implausible scenarios. All in all, it was a touching tale that even brought a tear to my eye. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it.

My Rating