Category Archives: Book Review

Review Card & Book Review – The Other Bridget By Rachael Johns

Bridget by name, Bridget by nature…

Librarian Bridget Jones, named after the famous fictional heroine, was raised on a remote farm, with only her mother’s romance novels for company.

Now, living alone in the city, Bridget is a hopeless bookaholic and believes that anyone who doesn’t like reading just hasn’t met the right book yet. If only fixing her love life was that simple.

When handsome Italian barista Fabio catches her eye, Bridget prays she won’t ruin things. But when her cranky neighbour Sully insists on making life tricky, she is faced with a new obstacle. Why is he going to so much effort to drive her round the bend?

With the help of a colourful cast of friends, Bridget decides to put both men to the test. But will mixing romance and fiction lead to her happily ever after?

About The Author

My Review

This story follows Bridget, a librarian and hopeless romantic who grew up surrounded by romance novels on a remote cattle station. Her passion for reading and romance shapes her life in Fremantle, where she runs a book club at the library. When Fabio, a charming Italian barista, moves from casual flirting to joining her book club, Bridget worries that her so-called “romance curse” might ruin her chances with him. However, she finds herself unexpectedly attracted to her grumpy neighbor, Sully. Torn between the two, Bridget devises a plan to test both men by selecting books tailored to their personalities, leading to unexpected and heartwarming outcomes.

The novel highlights the connection between romance and literature, with well-developed supporting characters who add depth to the narrative. It’s a beautiful exploration of love, self-discovery, and the power of books to influence our lives.

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Review Card & Book Review – Flirting With The Past By Kaylie Newell

Only love can make them whole

Poppy Sawyer has spent years struggling with survivor’s guilt over the car wreck that killed her high school boyfriend. But when her grandfather wills her part of his antiques shop in Christmas Bay, she returns home to face the pain in her past—and Justin Frost, the deceased’s brother. Neither expected their long-buried, forbidden attraction would spark at their first meeting. Nor the healing they find in each other’s arms. But guilt is a hard obstacle to overcome, as is Justin’s family. The only way forward together is to find forgiveness—with their loved ones and each other.

About The Author

My Review

Flirting with the Past by Kaylie Newell, the first book in the Hearts on Main Street series, is a heartwarming romance centered on Poppy’s return to Christmas Bay after her grandfather’s death. Tasked with running his antiques shop alongside her cousins, Poppy is haunted by guilt over her high school sweetheart Danny’s death. Complicating matters, she reconnects with Justin, Danny’s older brother, who initially blamed her for the tragedy. As old feelings resurface, Poppy and Justin navigate their grief, guilt, and growing affection, leading to a tender story of healing, forgiveness, and family reconnection.

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Review Card & Book Review – Not Your Child By Sheila Norton

I found you because I wanted to tell you. Jack is with someone else. He’s got no intention of sending for you or the kiddie or seeing you ever again. Don’t try to contact him, you’ll never find him.

All it takes is one message for Gemma’s life to fall apart. A confirmation of all she’s feared these last few months. Jack was supposed to be preparing for their new start in Australia, building their home, building their life together. And now this. Gone. Without a trace. Leaving their perfect world – all that their two-year-old daughter, Poppy, knows and cherishes – shattered.

Crystal comes into Gemma’s life at the opportune moment. This new friend, who’s been through it before, who knows how it feels for all of your hopes and dreams to suddenly implode, who wants to help, who will do anything…

Crystal loves Poppy. And Poppy loves Crystal. The minute they meet it’s as if all of the heartbreak over her dad leaving dissipates. Poppy feels whole again. And in a way, so does Gemma.

But what starts as a small kernel of jealousy soon grows into a larger sense of unease. Who is this woman who’s so obsessed with her daughter? And why does it feel like there’s something she’s not telling her?

About The Author

My Review

In this emotional story, Gemma, a single mother, is shattered when she learns her partner has moved to Australia, found someone new, and no longer wishes to be involved, even with their daughter, Poppy. At her lowest, she meets Crystal, a supportive colleague who quickly becomes involved in her life. While Crystal helps with Poppy, Gemma grows uneasy as Crystal begins acting more like family, even as Poppy’s mother. Ignoring her parents’ warnings to set boundaries, Gemma’s fears come true when Poppy goes missing. As the truth about Crystal’s past and secrets emerge, Gemma discovers answers to unexpected questions. The novel explores friendship, family, and blurred boundaries, building suspense as Crystal’s intentions unravel. With complex emotions and a dramatic second half, the story ultimately leads to a heartwarming conclusion, though it takes readers on an intense emotional journey.

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Review Card & Book Review – Santa’s Secret By Fern Michaels

Christmas is filled with beloved and long-kept traditions, but sometimes, there’s nothing better than creating brand-new ones. That’s why Francesca and her high school friends Amy, Rachael, and Nina are traveling to Italy to spend the holidays with Frankie’s boyfriend, Giovanni, and his family.

Giovanni and his brother, Marco, run a small Italian restaurant in Manhattan, where cherished family recipes delight tourists and locals alike. But there’s one recipe that eludes the brothers. Their mama refuses to divulge the special ingredient in her coveted panettone, claiming it is “Santa’s secret.”

While Frankie joins Giovanni and Marco in the kitchen, hoping to uncover the mystery of Mrs. Lombardi’s mouthwatering panettone, Amy, Nina, and Rachael are on their own quests. Amy wants to see the statue of David in Florence, Nina needs career inspiration, and Rachael longs to meet some eligible Italian men.

About The Author

My Review

This is the third book in Fern Michaels’ *Santa’s Crew* series, focusing on the friendship of Frankie, Amy, Nina, and Rachel as they embark on their annual Christmas trip with their families—this time to Italy. The story introduces Giovanni and Marco, brothers who run a family restaurant in Manhattan. Though their Italian restaurant is famous for its family recipes, they still haven’t learned their mother’s secret panettone ingredient. Eager to discover it, they close the restaurant for the holidays and head to Italy to reunite with their family.

The novel combines the warmth of family traditions and the beautiful setting of Italy, where the group navigates both personal journeys and travel misadventures. While it offers rich descriptions of Italy’s culture and cuisine, the story is not deeply rooted in typical Christmas themes. Despite this, it remains a heartwarming tale about love, family, and friendship. Though the holiday connection may not be as strong as expected, the book provides an enjoyable, feel-good story.

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Review Card & Book Review – Royally Matched By Kate O’Keeffe

I’ve got 99 problems, and picking the wrong guy might be all of them.

I’ve always had my royal checklist: Attend the Husband Hunting Ball? Check. Find the perfect match for a princess like me? Check. Feel zero sparks with Mr. Right (aka Enzo Revera)? Sadly, double check.

But then I meet Marco, Enzo’s charming and rugged brother. He’s everything I shouldn’t want, especially since I’ve planned my life to avoid the messiness of love.

When a twist of fate puts Marco at my side, I can’t deny our chemistry, even if he’s all wrong for a princess like me. Thrown together by royal duties and an ancient riddle, Marco and I embark on a crazy adventure that leads us to hidden clues.

As we unravel a secret that changes everything, I’m faced with a choice between duty and desire. Can I defy expectations and claim both the throne I’ve always wanted and my true love?

About The Author

My Review

Princess Sofia, determined to find a suitor, attends a royal ball with her focus on Lord Strozzi. However, her plans are derailed when a drunken man proposes to her, and she is saved by another guest, whom she nicknames “Duck.” Despite being charmed by Duck, Sofia continues her pursuit of Strozzi.

Meanwhile, Marco, attending the ball reluctantly at the insistence of his brother Enzo, is unexpectedly captivated by Sofia’s beauty. As Enzo’s assistant, Marco disapproves of his brother’s potential engagement to Sofia, even as he gets to know her better. It isn’t long before Sofia discovers that the man she calls Duck is actually Marco. Though he may not always make the best impression, Marco’s sincerity and genuine nature win Sofia over.

This charming romance features royal intrigue, lighthearted moments, and humorous encounters, including a subplot involving mischievous dogs. The story’s unexpected twists and lovable characters make for an engaging and delightful royal adventure.

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Review Card & Book Review- Fix Me When I Fall By Zoe Forward

I never should’ve agreed to do Ryan Brandt.
I know it’s best I never see him again. He ruined my everything. My career. My heart.

I have little choice when his movie career implodes from one too many PR fiascoes. I’ve been assigned to spin his disasters and makeover his life. If I don’t, my life in the career fixing business is over.

Now his intensity and seductive scheming are set on me. I refuse to cave to it.

Mackensie Parker is mine. I forgot until she burst into my life full of accusations that my smoking hot action movie career was about to crash.
I never should have touched her. Falling for her will ruin my life. Again.

There’s too much at stake. The problem is our chemistry is instant. Combustible. Something neither of us can resist. Before I know it, she’s under my skin.

About The Author

My Review

This is a heartwarming romance about Mackensie Parker, a Hollywood fixer, and Ryan Brandt, a fading movie star. Mackensie, whose job is to revive celebrity careers, is tasked with salvaging Ryan’s reputation, even though he once broke her heart after her sister’s tragic death. Determined to stay professional, Mackensie works to repair Ryan’s life and career, while struggling with her lingering feelings for him.

Ryan, initially resistant to change, slowly recognizes Mackensie’s efforts and the undeniable chemistry between them. As they work together, old emotions resurface, complicating their professional relationship. Outside threats, including Mackensie’s job security and sabotage attempts against Ryan, add tension to the unfolding romance.

This story beautifully balances personal and professional challenges, as Mackensie and Ryan navigate misunderstandings, rekindled feelings, and second chances. Full of drama, emotion, and sweet moments, *Fix Me When I Fall* is a compelling read about overcoming the past and rebuilding both love and trust.

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Review Card & Book Review – One Winter At The French Chalet By Mandy Baggot

Things aren’t going well for travel writer Orla Bradbee.

With Christmas fast approaching, her boss is insisting Orla must travel to a rural village in France to interview a man who doesn’t speak.

Saint-Chambéry is a picturesque French village nestled in the snow-capped mountains, but Jacques Barbier – gorgeous and brooding, yet a man of few words – makes it clear that Orla is wasting her time here.

Orla can’t deny that Jacques intrigues and infuriates her, but what is the mysterious Frenchman hiding exactly? And can she get close enough to uncover his secrets without risking her own heart?

About The Author

My Review

Orla, a travel journalist, is sent to a remote village in the French Alps to cover a story about a pregnant reindeer during Christmas. Due to family issues, she brings her teenage sister Erin, who is involved in a complicated online relationship with a man from Albania. In the village, Orla meets Jacques, a reclusive local known as Wolf. Though they initially clash, their relationship slowly develops into one of chemistry and connection. As Orla grows closer to Jacques, she begins to suspect that Delphine, who organized the trip, may have concealed key details.

The novel explores not only romance but also themes of community, family, and personal growth. Orla and Jacques’s evolving bond is complemented by rich relationships within the village, including Jacques’s ties with his brother Tommy and Orla’s relationship with her sister. Balancing humor and heartache, the author crafts an emotional journey, concluding with a heartfelt and satisfying ending.

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Review Card & Book Review – The Night Before Christmas By Nicola Knight

Felicity Brooks hates Christmas. But when she meets a man dressed as a giant penguin on Christmas Eve, could it spell a change of heart, in this laugh-out-loud festive romance?

The ridiculous music. The excessive presents. The stupid Christmas jumpers. Felicity wants nothing more than to escape it all, and pounces on the chance to work shifts over the festive period, at an animal rescue centre. After all, it’s the only place that brings her true happiness.

But her evening is disturbed by a stranger, James, dressed as a penguin and cradling a weak kitten. As Felicity and James work together to nurse the sick feline back to health, it gives them the perfect excuse to bond over their mutual dislike of all things festive. And soon, sparks fly.

But their attraction is interrupted when Felicity’s ex-boyfriend Adam returns to declare his undying love.

And when she is let down by both men, Felicity decides to return to her childhood home for some peace. While there, she uncovers an array of family secrets, and even more about herself, which may just help her to make a choice between Adam and James.

Can the ex outwit the penguin and win Felicity’s heart this Christmas?

About The Author

My Review

This book follows Felicity Brooks, whose traumatic childhood has left her disillusioned with love and Christmas. Working at an animal rescue center, her life changes on Christmas Eve when James, dressed in a penguin suit, brings in a near-death kitten. This sparks an unexpected romantic journey. As Felicity bonds with James and faces the surprise return of her ex, Adam, she begins unraveling family secrets and confronting her past. The novel balances humor and emotional depth as Felicity learns to heal, discern her relationships, and embrace her worthiness of love and friendship.

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Review Card & Book Review – Coming Home To The Windmill By The Sea By Caroline Young

When her father dies unexpectedly, Beth Macintosh leaves her high-powered career in London and rushes home to the island of Anglesey to be by her mother’s side. Stepping into the converted windmill she once called home, Beth is flooded with memories of her childhood spent on the island, before she left at eighteen to pursue her big-city dreams.

Crossing paths with Megan Williams is inevitable. Beth hasn’t spoken to her former best friend for fifteen years, not since the betrayal that shattered their friendship and set the women on different paths. While Beth spread her wings, painful secrets kept Megan tethered to the island and a life of isolation, supported only by her brother Ioan, who yearns for the love he once felt for Beth.

Confused about the feelings her memories of the island stir, Beth searches for solace on the beaches she and Megan loved as girls. But when the two friends meet again, and Megan confesses the truth about what drove them apart all those years ago, a fragile new bond begins to grow between the women. As Beth rediscovers the stark beauty of her childhood home, Megan opens her heart to the possibility of a renewed friendship, and hope of a brighter future. Can the two former friends overcome the pain of the past and come together to find the happiness they both deserve?

About The Author

My Review

Beth returns to her childhood home on the island of Anglesey after her father’s unexpected death to care for her mother. Leaving behind her successful London life, she faces her strained relationships with her childhood best friend Megan, and Megan’s brother Ioan, with whom she has a complicated past. Amid family struggles and personal challenges, Beth seeks forgiveness and healing while reconnecting with her roots. Set in a beautiful coastal community, this touching, heartfelt story explores themes of friendship, reconciliation, and personal growth, blending trials, triumphs, and the passage of time in a deeply emotional and realistic narrative.

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