Category Archives: Book Review

Review Card & Book Review- Coming Home To Sturcombe Bay By Susanne McCarthy

They were never truly over — and this time love might just get it right.

After ten years of globe-trotting, Cassie Channing returns to Sturcombe Bay to care for her ailing grandmother. Only to find herself face-to-face with Liam Ellis — the man she once loved and left behind.

Liam has moved on since the day Cassie left, or so he tells himself. A devoted single dad and respected vet, he’s built a life without her. But the moment she steps back into the village, old feelings come rushing back.

Liam’s determined to keep his distance — but the spark between them is impossible to ignore. And, as Cassie settles into village life and grows close to his daughter, staying away gets harder.

The more time Cassie and Liam spend together, the more the heat between them intensifies — but so do the unresolved tensions from the past.

With Cassie’s plane ticket booked to leave in six weeks, they both must decide if the love they never really got over is worth a second chance.

About The Author

My Review

Cassie and Liam were childhood sweethearts in the idyllic Sturcombe Bay on the South coast of Devon. They dreamed of attending university together and building a life side by side — until Cassie’s wanderlust took her away. With her Nanna’s encouragement and support, she chased her dreams abroad for a decade, leaving Liam behind.

Now, returning home to be with her ailing Nanna, Cassie is faced with emotional crossroads — including the unresolved feelings between her and Liam. He’s now a single father to the utterly lovable Robyn (a child so sweet, you’ll want to reach into the page and give her a hug). Cassie must decide whether to take a dream job managing a luxury resort in New Zealand, or finally put down roots in the place that first held her heart.

This is a beautifully written, easy-to-read story filled with well-drawn, believable characters. It’s a little schmaltzy in the best way — complete with not one but multiple weddings, a poignant funeral, steamy romantic moments, cute kids, and a few furry friends to round things out. The emotional tug-of-war between Cassie’s need for adventure and Liam’s quiet hope she’ll choose home is engaging and heartfelt.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

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RevIew Card & Book Review- The Pickleball Girl Finds Her Match By Rebecca Jasmine

Endy Andrews has built a life she loves—coaching seniors, running her youth pickleball league, and keeping her heart safely out of play. But when she meets Sebastian Hall, a charming former tennis star visiting Whisper Hills Country Club, their spark is instant and undeniable.

What begins as a whirlwind romance quickly turns complicated. Sebastian’s glamorous ex returns with unfinished business, and the club’s tennis purists are out to dismantle everything Endy has worked for—including her beloved Picklers program.

With her community on the line and her heart on the verge of breaking, Endy must decide whether love is worth the risk . . . and if second chancesare real both on and off the court.

About The Author

My Review

Endy, our heroine, felt overly childlike and whimsical. Her reactions — like giggling when a car speeds up or bouncing with excitement — gave off strong “Disney princess meets Mary Poppins” vibes. While she clearly cares for the kids she teaches in her pickleball class, scenes like one where Canadian geese fly overhead and a child grabs her hand in wonder felt overly sentimental and a bit much.

Sebastian, the love interest, doesn’t really interact with Endy until nearly 20% into the book, despite them being in the same orbit multiple times. Instead of building chemistry through meaningful conversation or shared moments, the story leans heavily on telling us they’re falling for each other — not showing it. I also found it repetitive how the book kept reintroducing who Sebastian was each time he appeared.

If you enjoy light, whimsical romances with a strong fairytale feel and don’t mind a slower pace or more surface-level emotional depth, this might work for you. But personally, I found the tone overly saccharine and the romance lacking in genuine spark.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

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Review Card & Book Review – Not My Greek Wedding By Sue Roberts

She might not be the bride, but could this wedding be the start of her perfect future?

Mia is reeling from a breakup with her fiancé. And now her best friend Tasha is getting married on the beautiful Greek island of Santorini – where Mia once planned on having her own wedding.

Arriving at the resort, Mia’s breath catches at the sight of the sun-soaked terrace and vases overflowing with pink and white blooms. And with guests like local hunk, Christos, walking around like statues of Greek gods come to life, there’s even more to celebrate… so Mia promises to put her own heartache aside and make sure everything is perfect for Tasha – especially as she’s the Maid of Honour!

But with embarrassing speeches, champagne corks popping everywhere, and guests getting caught up in the energetic Greek dancing, there are too many problems to tackle alone. If she opens her heart, can Mia and Christos make sure the day runs smoothly, and could she even start her own new love story in Greece?

About The Author

My Review

This is a breezy, sun-drenched romantic comedy that delivers exactly what it promises: escapism with sparkle. Set against the postcard-perfect backdrop of Santorini, it is a light-hearted tale brimming with charm, cocktails, and second chances.

The story follows Mia, a jilted influencer still smarting from a broken engagement, as she heads to Greece to be Maid of Honour at her best friend’s wedding. The twist? It’s being held in the very place Mia once dreamed of tying the knot herself. What unfolds is a delightful mix of wedding chaos, self-discovery, and sizzling chemistry—especially with the ever-dreamy local, Christos.

There’s an intoxicating blend of humour and heart, especially in Mia’s growing relationship with her endearing grandmother, whose grounded wisdom offers a nice counterbalance to Mia’s social media–obsessed worldview. It’s about fun, healing, and finding unexpected joy. And in that respect, it shines.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

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Review Card & Book Review – The Floating Amsterdam Flower Shop By Annabel French

One fresh start. One unexpected encounter. Can love bridge the gap?

When Rosie leaves behind her ordinary life in England to open a flower shop on Amsterdam’s water, she expects nothing less than a fairytale.

Max, her handsome but brooding new neighbour, prefers to keep the world at arm’s length – and living on the houseboat next door, he’s not too thrilled about the new company.

As Rosie’s business blossoms, so do her feelings for Max. But Rosie isn’t sure she’s ready for a relationship, and Max is still nursing a broken heart.

Then a rival in the flower market threatens her dreams, Rosie discovers that the most beautiful things can bloom when you learn to go with the flow – and allow someone to stand by your side.

About The Author

My Review

This is a charming and heartwarming story about fresh starts, friendship, and finding your place in the world. When Rosie decides to leave her old life behind and follow her dream of owning a flower shop, she finds herself in the beautiful, quirky city of Amsterdam—living on a rickety old houseboat with a rather grumpy neighbour next door. And so, her new adventure begins.

Rosie is a thoroughly likeable heroine—warm, determined, and easy to root for. From the very beginning, you find yourself willing her to succeed. The friendships she forms, particularly with Emma and Finn, are a highlight of the book. Their connection brings heart and humour, and you can sense there’s more to their stories yet to come.

While romance is part of the plot, it’s not the only focus—and that’s what makes this book special. It’s about growth, taking chances, and building something new after life has thrown you off course.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

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Review Card & Book Review- A Place In The Sun By Jo Thomas

It’s never too late to find where you belong…

Thea knew the holiday house her late husband Marco bought in Tuscany wasn’t pristine. But when she relocates to Italy for the summer with her children, she’s shocked by how much work Casa Luna needs. And she only has six weeks to fix it up ready to sell! Her only option is to ask the tight-knit Italian community for help.

In return, Thea and her children become involved in the community kitchen, working alongside handsome chef Giovanni and three very competitive nonnas. Gradually, Thea begins to open up to the people around her for the first time in a long while. But just as she’s beginning to wonder whether this small Tuscan town could become a new place to call home, a surprise visitor turns everything on its head . . .

About The Author

My Review

This is a heartwarming and uplifting story about love, loss, and finding home in unexpected places. The novel follows Thea and her two children, Luca and Aimee, as they travel to Tuscany in the wake of her husband Marco’s death. Nearly two years on, they arrive at Casa Luna—a crumbling property Marco purchased before he passed away, and a place Thea has only just found the courage to face. What unfolds is a touching journey of healing, as Thea begins to rediscover herself while restoring the house and finding her place in a close-knit Italian village. Along the way, she’s supported by a cast of vibrant characters, each bringing charm and richness to the story. The three wonderful nonnas are especially memorable, adding warmth, wisdom, and more than a few laughs. This is a lovely, feel-good read about second chances, resilience, and the bonds that hold us together.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Amazon

Review Card & Book Review- A Cornish Love Story By Cressida McLaughlin

The most romantic house in Cornwall has got a new owner… 

Journalist Georgie Monroe has watched as it has been transformed into a high-tech glass palace, renovated by a mystery buyer. 

When she’s invited to report on an event there, she comes face to face not only with her first love, architect Ethan Sparks, but also with their complicated past. Finding themselves trapped inside when the house malfunctions, Georgie realises that they — and the house — are still keeping secrets. 

But have Georgie and Ethan left it too late to start again, or can they write the next chapter of their love story together?

About The Authoepr

My Review

This book follows Georgie Monroe, a journalist living in a quaint Cornish town who has long been enchanted by a beloved local author and the book series that shaped her teenage years. Now working for that very author, Georgie is asked to write a feature on the real-life house that inspired the novels—recently renovated and beautifully restored. But when she discovers who the new owner is, she’s faced with an unexpected reunion that brings back memories she thought were long buried.

Told through alternating past and present timelines, the story slowly reveals the connection between Georgie and Ethan, making their journey feel both romantic and real. Their shared history gives the novel emotional depth, while their present-day interactions add plenty of warmth and charm.

The house itself becomes a standout element in the book—its transformation mirroring the personal growth of the characters. It’s described so vividly, you can almost imagine yourself moving in and soaking up the Cornish air. With its engaging characters, a touch of mystery, and a good dose of humour, A Cornish Love Story is a light, lovely read that fans of cosy romance will no doubt enjoy.

My Rating

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Review Card & Book Review- The Forever Cottage By Jill Steeples

🌿 It’s never too late to follow your heart… 🌿

Tess Alexander lives an enviable life with her husband Charles, at Hollyhocks Cottage in the idyllic Cotswold village of Lower Leaping. Dreaming of their early retirement, Tess’s plans are dashed when Charles shares some devastating news and suddenly she’s left alone with only Barney, her adorable Beagle dog, for company.

Facing an uncertain future, Tess tries to reconnect with her old self. She begins to transform the neglected garden office into a beautiful retreat, the perfect spot for her to indulge in her long-forgotten creative passions.

However, a chance encounter with charming but down on his luck, Rob Templeton, soon puts pay to her plans, when she offers him the place to stay, sensing a kindred spirit.

With the support of old friends, Gina and Suzy, Tess must now step out of her comfort zone and embrace a different way of life, one that is filled with secrets, possibilities and second chances, if only Tess is prepared to take them.

With so many demands on her attention, will Tess find a way to follow her heart and discover her own happy ending?

About The Author

My Review

This is a heartwarming, uplifting tale of new beginnings, personal growth, and the quiet power of friendship. When Tess’s husband unexpectedly leaves her and her daughter is off travelling, she finds herself suddenly alone—save for the comforting presence of her loyal dog, Barney. What follows is a beautifully written journey of rediscovery. Tess begins to shift her focus from the needs of her ex to her own passions, interests, and the life she wants to build for herself. As she tends to her charming garden—described in such vivid, serene detail you can almost smell the flowers—Tess also nurtures something deeper: self-worth and happiness on her own terms.

The supporting characters are a delight, particularly her neighbour Dilly and her two best friends, who bring warmth, humour, and authenticity to the story. Their evolving friendships add real heart to the narrative, reminding readers of the importance of a strong support network during life’s upheavals. Set in a picturesque village that feels like a character in its own right, this book is the perfect escape read.

My Rating

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Review Card & Book Review- Dancing Under The Moon By Celia Anderson

Forty-something Molly is starting to realise – with growing horror – that life isn’t just passing her by, it has completely gone without her. Her husband, four children and large collection of animals are chaotic and demanding, and her job as a playgroup assistant has lost its power to inspire her.

When temptation strikes and Molly is desperately attracted to the charismatic village headmaster, she is outraged to discover that her husband Jake has beaten her to a fling, and even worse, has done this with one of Molly’s closest friends!

With the whole family plunged into turmoil for a variety of reasons, Molly is forced out of her comfort zone to make decisions that will affect her marriage, her children, her parents and her friends. Can she reclaim her life, and learn to love it again as she does so?

About The Author

My Review

This is an uplifting, heartwarming tale that effortlessly blends romance, friendship, and second chances into a story that’s as cozy as it is inspiring.

At the heart of the story is Molly, a woman in her forties who suddenly realizes that life hasn’t just passed her by—it’s all but vanished without her truly living it. Her journey of self-discovery is touching and relatable, reminding us that it’s never too late to chase joy, love, or personal growth.

From the very first chapter, the story grabs hold and doesn’t let go. Anderson’s writing is fluid and full of heart, making the book both easy to devour and hard to put down. The blend of romance, life reflection, and the beauty of unexpected friendships creates a feel-good read that lingers long after the final page.

Dancing Under The Moon is more than just a romantic escape—it’s a nudge to embrace life’s moments, take chances, and never stop believing in new beginnings.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

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Review Card & Book Review- A Wedding Between Enemies By Lorraine Hall

Her choice:  
Hate him or marry him! 

Straitlaced Serena Valli didn’t expect her late father’s company to come with ruinous debts. Her strategy? Forge the merger of the century by marrying infamous rival CEO Luciano Ascione. A foolproof plan, if she can stand the maddening—and infuriatingly handsome—Italian… 

Fabricating a playboy lifestyle has worked in Luciano’s favor; the world and his cruel father underestimate his every move. The pleasure he takes in vexing his alluring and steely fiancée, however, is very real. And when Serena matches his fire with her own, Luciano fears it’s not only she who’s unraveling… 

About The Author

My Review

From the very first page, there’s no question that Serena and Luciano are sworn rivals—bred into hostility by the machinations of their feuding fathers. The tension between them crackles with history, pride, and deep-seated resentment, making their eventual emotional journey all the more rewarding.

When Serena proposes a marriage of convenience to save both of their crumbling family companies from a mutual threat, it sets the stage for a slow-burn transformation—one where two fiercely stubborn individuals must learn to cooperate, confront old wounds, and unearth the vulnerability beneath their hardened exteriors. Their chemistry is undeniable, but it’s their growth and emotional reckoning that truly stand out. As the story unfolds, the motivations behind both Serena and Luciano’s behaviors become clearer, and that emotional unraveling is what makes the story both engaging and at times, heartbreaking.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

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Harlequin

Review Card & Book Review – We Both Have Secrets By Emma Robinson

What I’m about to say is going to blow our lives apart. But there’s nothing else for it. I’ve tried so hard to keep it from you, not wanting to cause you pain. But I can’t hide it any longer. You deserve the truth. But I don’t know if there’s any coming back from this. And I’m terrified you won’t ever forgive me…

There’s nothing as strong as a mother’s love. As I watch my youngest daughter stride into her new life as a student, a sob catches in my throat. It feels like only yesterday that my two precious girls were playing together without a care in the world. I sacrificed so much to give them the life they deserved and I’d do it again in a heartbeat.

Looking at my husband Robert, tears in his eyes, I realise just how far we’ve come. Our daughters have flown the nest and now it’s time to re-kindle our own flame. So, when our long-lost friend Lucy invites us to her Spanish villa, I jump at the chance.

But when we arrive, instead of it being a romantic break, Robert begins to pull away from me. His conversation is muted, he goes for long walks on the beach alone and then I find a crumpled note on the bedside table and Robert has vanished.

In that moment, my entire world shatters. My husband has been keeping a devastating secret from me. But in order to find out just how much it will destroy our family, I will have to reveal something that I too have kept hidden. And once my own secret is out, will my family ever forgive me for what I did?

About The Author

My Review

This book centering on Ellen and Robert, a couple navigating the quiet after their children have flown the nest. With their newfound freedom comes unexpected tension—Ellen suspects Robert is hiding something, and her discovery of a cryptic note only deepens her unease. But Ellen isn’t innocent either; she’s harboring a secret that could unravel their decades-long marriage. The characters are deeply relatable—flawed, loving, and layered—making the emotional stakes feel authentic. Themes of trust, vulnerability, and the enduring strength of love are woven throughout in a warm, engaging style.

Heartfelt and grounded, We Both Have Secrets is a beautifully written exploration of marriage, midlife, and the hidden truths that shape us. It’s a moving story of second chances and rediscovering each other when it matters most.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

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