Category Archives: Book Review

Review Card & Book Review- Sisters And Husbands By Amanda Brookfield

Ever since the death of their father twenty years before, beautiful thirty-two-year-old Anna has acted as her younger sister Becky’s support, playing the peace-maker in her stormy relationship with their mother, and counselling her through the traumas of a life that has always appeared charmless and problematic in comparison to her own.

Now married to wealthy, handsome David Lawrence, with a luxurious country home and a successful career in broadcasting, Anna’s good fortune looks set to continue. But when she unexpectedly falls pregnant and Becky’s marriage runs into trouble, the door to the sisters past suddenly swings open, exploding all their long-held perceptions both of each other and themselves.

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Anna and Becky return to England with their husbands after their father’s death, each navigating life in their own unique way. Anna is a successful radio broadcaster, commuting to London from the countryside, while Becky juggles her role as a communications administrator and supporting her husband’s dream of running a restaurant.

The novel delves into family dynamics, exploring complex relationships and hidden struggles. Infidelity, marital issues, and the challenges of starting over create tension as the sisters and their husbands confront their imperfect lives. Despite the slow pace, the story’s depth and multilayered characters make it a compelling read.

The sisters’ bond is central, portraying sibling love at its best and worst. The unraveling of their relationships—with each other and their spouses—offers an emotional journey of self-discovery, resilience, and redefining their paths when life doesn’t go as planned. A moving, character-driven story about family, marriage, and finding a way forward.

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Review Book & Book Review- Not In My Book By Katie Holt

Rosie, an idealistic and passionate Peruvian American, leaves her Tennessee hometown to pursue her dream of making it in New York as a writer. But her plan is derailed when she ends up in class with her archnemesis and ex-crush, Aiden Huntington—an obnoxious, surly, and gorgeous literary fiction writer who doesn’t have much patience for the romance genre or for Rosie.

Rosie and Aiden regularly go to verbal battle in workshop until their professor reaches her breaking point. She allows them to stay in her class on one condition: they must cowrite a novel that blends their genres.

The reluctant writing duo can’t help but put pieces of themselves into their accidentally steamy novel, and their manuscript-in-progress provides an outlet for them to confess their feelings—and explore their attraction toward each other.

When Rosie and Aiden find themselves competing against each other for a potentially career-changing opportunity, the flames of old rivalry reignite, and their once-in-a-lifetime love story is once again at risk of being shelved—unless they can find a way to end the book on their own terms.

About The Author

My Review

Not in My Book by Katie Holt is a captivating romance that seamlessly blends themes of self-discovery and love. The story follows a young woman torn between her passion for literature and the complexities of navigating real-world relationships. Holt skillfully explores the tension between fantasy and reality as the protagonist grapples with her feelings for a charming yet enigmatic love interest.

The “enemies to lovers” trope takes center stage, delivering delightful tension through sharp banter and a gradual, heartfelt evolution from animosity to affection. This dynamic is complemented by the protagonist’s “bookish heroine” persona, a relatable and inspiring character who learns to balance her literary dreams with her real-life aspirations.

Katie Holt has created a story that is equal parts entertaining and thought-provoking, encouraging readers to embrace their own journeys. Not in My Book is an excellent choice for fans of contemporary romance, humor, and stories about finding love in the most unexpected places. Highly recommended!

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Review Card & Book Review- Stuck In Second Gear By Carmen Reid

Lucie Marshal is absolutely furious! How did she go from being a successful wife and mother to divorced, teetering on bankruptcy, and barely speaking to her grown-up daughter? Worse, she’s just heard that her moronic ex-husband Miles is marrying a much younger woman in an influencer-style wedding in France #blessed #theone

Lucie will absolutely NOT be going. To hell with Miles, his new teeth, new hair and new wife! She’s perfectly fine…isn’t she? Except, Lucie feels lost and angry almost all of the time. Just what happened to her younger, freer wild child self, who used to live life to the full?

But then pregnant daughter Zoe needs a lift… and eccentric nephew Deva does too and now Lucie has somehow agreed to drive her Dad’s beloved old Jag all the way across France to take them to her ex-husband’s wedding.

With a pitstop in Paris, a breakdown, unexpected passengers, and miles of open road, all set to Deva’s showtunes soundtrack – could this be the journey Lucie needs to find a way back to herself?

About The Author

My Review

Lucie, recently divorced and struggling with life’s challenges, reluctantly agrees to attend her ex-husband’s wedding after her daughter’s plea for help due to a train strike. She finds herself navigating a low point in her life—dealing with divorce, financial struggles, and her father’s impending death.

The story is rich with subplots, including a journey to Chanel’s birthplace, a touching side story involving refugees, and a heartfelt reconnection with a man from her past. Lucie’s estranged relationship with her daughter is sensitively explored, with their gradual rebuilding portrayed beautifully.

The romance is thoughtfully written, with a realistic balance of cautious hope and genuine connection. The narrative is full of depth and warmth, making it easy to root for Lucie and her loved ones. This is a heartwarming tale about a mature, weathered heroine facing relatable life challenges with resilience and hope.

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Review Card & Book Review – Reach For The Stars By Maxine Morrey

Felicity was never meant to end up with a money-pit farmhouse to renovate and a broken heart to heal…

But when Fliss attempts to drown the sorrow of seeing her ex-fiancé and his new wife’s magazine-worthy wedding all over social media, one rash decision loses her a job and gains her a doer-upper in the blink of an eye.

The only bright spot of living in the country is the very dishy and very handy loveliest-man-ever Jesse Woods. And when Fliss’s new roof has an ill-advised meeting with a tree in the middle of the night resulting in her literally seeing stars, there’s only one thing for it. She’s going to have to accept Jesse’s help and a place to stay.

City girl Fliss is at rock bottom but if anyone can teach her to turn her gaze from the gutter to the stars it’s Jesse Woods. She’s been burnt trusting men before, but Jesse may just be worth breaking her own rules for…

About The Author

My Review

Felicity, shaped by a difficult past, is fiercely independent, making it hard for her to accept help—even from Jesse, whose steadfast support begins to break down her walls. Their evolving relationship, from tension to teamwork, is one of the book’s highlights, with Jesse standing by her side through her struggles.

As the story unfolds, Felicity’s guarded nature and trust issues become understandable, given her history. The small-town setting, though warm and welcoming, feels overwhelming for someone as private as her, adding another layer of conflict. Jesse’s protective instincts and his ability to own up to mistakes make him a compelling partner. Humor, especially in Felicity’s city-girl encounters with rural life, adds levity to the otherwise emotionally heavy narrative.

A standout moment is Felicity’s heartfelt café speech, emphasizing that self-worth isn’t tied to money. It’s a lesson that resonates deeply and underscores the book’s themes of resilience and self-acceptance.

However, the third act falters with an abrupt resolution. While Felicity’s decisions are understandable, her choice to chase after Jesse instead of the other way around feels inconsistent with their dynamic. Despite this, the story delivers humor, emotional depth, and a satisfying message about overcoming the past and finding value in oneself.

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Review Card & Book Review- Beautiful Broken Love By Shanora Williams

It’s been months since her dreams of forever were brutally shattered. Seven long months since her husband and soulmate, Lew, died in her arms, leaving her to carry on. Alone. And Davina Klein-Roberts still isn’t sure how to move forward.

To escape her anguish, Davina throws everything into work, pushing Golden Oil Co., her self-built skin care line, to become a viral success. Now she’s poised to clinch a major endorsement deal too. But it’s bittersweet without Lew by her side.

A meeting with Deke Bishop, the hot NBA star she’s courting for her brand, leaves Davina flustered. With his dimpled smile and warm handshake, Deke’s a natural pitchman. And he’s clearly interested—not only in her lotions.

Davina soon discovers that Deke’s more than just another player and carries his own pain. But as her feelings for him grow, so does her guilt. Will the pain of a future already lost keep her from embracing hope for a new one?

About The Author

My Review

This was such a heartfelt story. After losing her husband, Davina throws herself into her skincare business. When she notices a star basketball player commenting about his dry skin, she sees an opportunity to promote her brand. She reaches out to Deke’s manager, hoping he might consider being an ambassador, though she doesn’t expect him to endorse her small company.

Deke doesn’t need the money, but knowing his sister loves Davina’s products, he agrees—thinking he might score some freebies for her. However, the moment he meets Davina, he’s captivated and eager to find ways to spend more time with her.

Davina, aware of Deke’s reputation as a player and put off by his confidence, isn’t interested in a relationship. Still grappling with her grief, she doesn’t reveal her husband’s death. Deke, unwilling to pursue a married woman, is caught off guard when he learns the truth. Having experienced grief himself, he offers his support, even if it’s just as a friend.

This beautifully written story captures love, healing, and the power of connection, making it truly unforgettable.

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Review Card & Book Review- The Silver- Haired Sisterhood By Judy Leigh

‘We’re celebrating life,’ Rose said. ‘Life, every single minute of it. Tell me, girls – is there ever anything better to celebrate than that?’

Five years after seventy-something Tess jetted off to Paris with her best friends, Jen, Rose, Della and Pam – the Five French Hens – for Jen’s hen do, a lot has changed. Prospective groom Eddie has been given the heave-ho, Tess’s husband has been sent packing and the Hens are making the most of their golden years.

But Tess is stuck in a rut. Rather than embrace her independence, she watches on as Rose wows Paris, Jen explores Iceland and Pam heads to Greece. But when tragedy strikes Della, Tess is shaken into action. They both need a change of scenery and longing to see the Northern Lights, they head to the Highlands of Scotland and the magical Isle of Skye.

There Tess and Della get more than they bargained for. Along with stunning scenery and breathtaking history, they find new friends, grand adventures and even romance. And when they’re joined by the other Hens, together they start plotting a fabulous new future for them all.

About The Author

My Review

The protagonist is seventy-seven, supported by a vibrant cast of similarly aged friends, including eighty-year-old Rose, who refuses to let age or health challenges dampen her spirit. Judy Leigh emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive outlook on life and seizing new adventures, regardless of age.

Aging brings its difficulties, but how we confront them defines us. Some characters face grief in different ways—one finds comfort in memories, while another struggles with survivor’s guilt and turns to alcohol. However, an epiphany inspires him to embrace change, reminding us that our worth is shaped by who we are now, not past mistakes. Leigh weaves a message of resilience: “Out of something bad, there’s always hope.”

Friendship is a central theme, celebrated as “the family you choose,” offering strength and support in challenging times. Set primarily on the stunning Isle of Skye, Leigh’s vivid descriptions immerse readers in the beauty of a snowy December landscape.

The novel highlights the power of second chances, showing that while we cannot rewrite the past, we can create a brighter future. The Silver-Haired Sisterhood is a heartwarming, uplifting story filled with hope, friendship, and the joy of new beginnings. Judy Leigh’s storytelling continues to captivate and inspire, leaving readers eagerly anticipating her next work.

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Review Card & Book Review- The Girl With The Irish Secret By Susanne O’Leary

Staring up at the magnificent, rose-covered walls of her grandmother’s house, Violet Fleury isn’t sure she’ll be welcome inside. After running from her hometown in Ireland to follow her dreams of acting, she’s back to play Irish legend, Kathleen O’Sullivan, in a local film. She’s vowed to tell the story of the woman her village are so proud of – and to build bridges with the family she drifted away from. But will they give her a second chance?

Violet’s sisters might be hesitant, but whilst helping with her sweet young nieces and nephews, Violet feels closer to them than ever before. Then Violet’s leading man, dangerously handsome Jack Montgomery, arrives in the peaceful countryside. The instant chemistry between them is as fiery as Violet’s flaming red hair… and discovering stories about Kathleen from the locals, Violet sees Jack’s kindness too. He even wins over Violet’s sisters. Could he help stitch their family back together?

But when Violet finds dusty, handwritten notes from Kathleen in her research, she wonders if this legendary woman was the heroine everyone thinks. And when Jack pulls out of the film, Violet is heartbroken. The villagers, and Violet’s whole family, are in awe of Kathleen’s story – and Violet had even started to imagine staying in Ireland. But without Jack by her side, could these secrets destroy the town’s reputation, and the second chance she’s been dreaming of?

About The Author

My Review

In The Girl with the Irish Secret by Susanne O’Leary, Violet Fleury, an aspiring actress, returns to her family estate, Magnolia Manor, to prepare for her most significant role yet—portraying Kathleen O’Sullivan, a legendary Irish film star with a mysterious and storied past. Set against the stunning landscapes of Kerry, Ireland, the novel intertwines Violet’s personal journey with the unraveling of Kathleen’s hidden secrets, creating a heartfelt blend of mystery, self-discovery, and emotional depth.

As Violet delves into Kathleen’s life, she uncovers not only the star’s enigmatic history but also lessons about identity, perception, and authenticity. Kathleen’s story forces Violet to confront her own insecurities, especially the pressures of living in the public eye and the weight of familial expectations. This parallel exploration enriches the narrative, offering readers a touching meditation on how the stories we tell shape who we are.

The romance between Violet and Jack, a charismatic movie star, brings a lighter, sweeter element to the narrative. Though their chemistry occasionally feels understated, Jack’s charm and vulnerability make him an engaging character. Their budding relationship provides a contrast to the heavier themes of family drama and historical intrigue, adding balance to the story.

While the plot follows a somewhat predictable arc, it offers comfort and familiarity, much like returning to cherished characters in a favorite series. Fans of the Magnolia Manor series will appreciate cameos from previous characters, though some may wish they had larger roles. However, the novel stands well on its own, allowing new readers to enjoy the story without needing prior knowledge of the Fleury family’s history.

Overall, it is a warm and engaging novel that skillfully blends mystery, romance, and family drama. Susanne O’Leary’s storytelling, coupled with the charm of the Irish setting, makes this book a delightful read for fans of uplifting, character-driven fiction.

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Review Card & Book Review – Nobody’s Perfect By Sally Kilpatrick

Vivian Quackenbush enjoys a typical life. She has winesday evenings with her two best friends. Her son is in college. She and her husband, Mitch, are planning the next move for their empty-nester future. But to Vivian’s blindsided surprise…not together.

After nearly twenty-five years of marriage, Mitch wants a divorce. He confesses that he doesn’t love her anymore. He never even liked her chicken salad! Brutal. What is Vivian to do but channel her anger, frustration, and pain into a video she posts online. Ill advised? Perhaps. Cathartic? Absolutely. Overnight, Vivian goes viral. Millions of views and counting—to Mitch’s fury, her son’s embarrassment, her mother’s support, and the media’s delight. For Vivian, it’s a moment of truth: hide or lean into it. Vivian 2.0 chooses to lean—maybe even toward the younger single father next door.

Now Vivian is wondering where she goes from here. She’s discovering that somewhere in her trending if upended life, she’ll have to figure out who she really wants to be.

About The Author

My Review

Vivian, a stay-at-home mom, is blindsided when her husband of nearly 25 years, Mitch, reveals he’s been planning a divorce for years. With her son off to college, her seemingly content life crumbles. She leans on her two best friends and her mother, though their relationship is strained due to her mom’s history of five divorces.

Vivian’s modest YouTube channel takes an unexpected turn when a drunken rant about her divorce goes viral, thrusting her into an overwhelming new reality. While she begins to prioritize herself, it sometimes comes at the cost of those around her.

The story explores themes of self-discovery, resilience, and the challenges of starting over. While the ending offers closure, it could have been more impactful with a stronger epilogue.

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