Category Archives: Book Review

Review Card & Book Review- Meet Me In A Mile By Elizabeth Hrib

Lydia McKenzie is not a runner. Not even close. But in her quest to be taken seriously at work—and catch the eye of her office crush—she signs up for the New York City Marathon as part of her architectural firm’s outreach program. Now she just needs to avoid making a fool of herself. Thankfully, she knows how to outsource.

Personal trainer Luke Townsend is definitely a runner, and he’s exactly what Lydia needs to get in shape: experienced, motivational, funny, kind, well muscled… And when he and Lydia bond over her redesign of the Manhattan Youth Center, a place near and dear to Luke’s heart, their training time intensifies from hitting the pavement to hitting the sheets. Still counts as a workout, right?

Suddenly, everything Lydia thought she wanted feels less clear, but she’s determined not to let a little unplanned indiscretion derail her goals. There’s no reason she and Luke can’t keep training as if they don’t share mind-blowing chemistry. They’re professionals. But when her project proposal suddenly hangs in the balance, and her office crush offers some awfully tempting one-on-one help, she’ll have to decide which direction her heart wants to run.

About The Author

My Review

This is a dual POV friends-to-lovers romance featuring Lydia, who signs up for the NYC marathon to win over her office crush and impress her boss. She hires Luke, a dedicated youth center worker, as her marathon coach after a chance encounter, but soon finds herself developing unexpected feelings for him. Their relationship grows naturally through marathon training and shared career ambitions, strengthened by their chemistry and banter.

The story is enriched with themes like architecture, sustainability, and personal growth, adding depth beyond the central romance. While the love triangle subplot and the development of side characters (Eric, Kirsten, Jack) may feel predictable or underdeveloped, Lydia’s evolving connection with Luke is compelling. The subplot with Jack, though somewhat drawn out, encourages Lydia’s self-reflection. Overall, it’s a light, witty, and engaging read that balances humor with the complexities of personal and romantic growth.

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Review Card & Book Review- Honeybee By Dawn O’Porter

For best friends Renée and Flo, adulthood isn’t the party they expected.

Renée’s dreams of being a writer are going nowhere. Flo’s hiding a secret shame. They’re both failing in work and love.

Why did nobody warn them? Why does adulthood feel less like freedom, and more like a trap?

Careening from one disaster to the next, and learning to spread their… wings, Renée and Flo must uncover the secret to living their best lives.

But maybe we never stop growing up. And maybe they’ll survive the course – if only they stick together.

About The Author

My Review

Renee and Flo, childhood friends from Guernsey, reconnect at a funeral and decide to live together, despite their differing personalities and lifestyles. Renee, a carefree 22-year-old aspiring writer, still lives on the island, while Flo, a more serious marketing professional, returns from London after a personal crisis. As they navigate their renewed friendship, they face their own struggles, secrets, and fears, all while adjusting to adulthood, grief, and new responsibilities. The story blends humor with emotion, capturing the complexities of friendship and the challenges of growing up.

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Review Card & Book Review – Falling For Provence By Alison Roberts

She came to Provence in the hope of a fresh start, she never expected she would fall in love and find herself along the way.

Inheriting an old stone house in Provence, along with her sisters is the catalyst Ellie Gilchrist needs to put some distance between her and her grief. But when she arrives at the run down ‘La Masionette’ hidden amongst overgrown lavender and ivy, she wonders if she’s made a mistake?

That is until she meets her guarded neighbour Julien and his adorable little boy, and she’s surprised by the flutters of excitement she never thought she’d feel again. Add in rescuing a stray dog and she has the much needed distraction she needs. Ellie decides to stay temporarily and work on bringing the little house back to life again. If only she can ignore the fireworks that explode every time she’s around Julien. They both have hearts they want to protect, but a little temporary affaire can’t be too dangerous, especially when Ellie has stated she will be leaving after the last summer market of the season. But something in the alchemy of what she discovers in this part of France seems to be casting an irresistible spell making it difficult to walk away.

About The Author

My Review

Ellie Gilchrist and her two sisters inherit a dilapidated stone house in Provence from an uncle they never knew. Ellie travels there with one sister and decides to stay to renovate the property, hoping to escape her grief. She meets her neighbor, Julien, a grieving doctor, and his son, Theo, and their initial encounter is tense. After Ellie has an accident and a stray dog is injured, Julien helps her, and she decides to care for the dog temporarily. As Ellie works on the house, she begins to connect with the local surroundings and people, including Julien, and experiences emotional healing and renewal. The book is about new beginnings and rediscovering joy in life.

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Review Card & Book Review- Look What You Made Me Do By Amy Andrews

A disgraced football star, a high school in need of saving and a reunion too hot to handle.

Headteacher Ella Lucas and football star Jake Prince have a very complicated history! Their mind-blowing encounter two years ago is proving impossible to forget now Jake has reappeared in Ella’s life after being booted out of the NFL.

She knew he was trouble back then but Ella has enough on her plate right now to worry about Jake and his shenanigans. Except, her school’s on the brink of closure, and it appears he’s the one person who can actually help. All he has to do is coach the underdog football team to a winning streak and maybe Ella can help Jake restore his tarnished reputation in the process. With nothing to lose, Jake reluctantly agrees.

As the school season heats up so does their inevitable chemistry. Far from being stuck in the past, the sparks between them are burning hot. And although he may look like her next mistake, Ella is determined that she will keep her hands off the anti-hero even if he does still have the best tight end on the planet. Because Ella has one golden rule: they are never ever getting together….

About The Author

My Review

Look What You Made Me Do is a heartwarming story about Ella Lucas and Jake Prince, two individuals who have overcome difficult childhoods to find happiness. Ella has spent her life battling the unjust reputation created by her mother’s actions, hoping to escape the rumors by leaving her small town. Jake, similarly burdened by his own parental issues, has dedicated himself to a football career and relocated to a new city—unexpectedly finding Ella there. Now a high school principal, Ella faces the challenge of saving her school from closure, and Jake becomes the ideal person to help her. Despite their baggage, Ella and Jake bond over their shared experiences and offer each other unique perspectives and support. The story also highlights their found families, with lovable characters like Daisy and Iris adding depth.

My Rating

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Happy Publication Day – 15 March 2025

Just The Beginning By Sarah Bennett

Welcome to Halfmoon Quay, the picture-perfect village clinging to the edge of the Cornish coast ⛵️🧡🌊

Everyone knows Rick Penrose is the person in the village to turn to for help. Friendly and reliable, not to mention drop-dead gorgeous, he’ll do anything for anyone. When his teenage crush Anya moves back to the quay for a fresh start, he has the perfect solution. She needs a job and his great uncle needs help to run his hotel. It’s a win-win.

Following the death of her husband, Anya Stokes discovered everything about her life was a lie. Without her beautiful home and the luxuries she took for granted, Anya and her daughter, Freya, have no choice but to move in with her aunt and uncle in Halfmoon Quay.

As she begins to turn her life around, Anya realises the perfect man might have been right under her nose all the time. But there’s a fine line between helping and taking over and Rick doesn’t always know where it is. Then Anya discovers he’s been keeping things from her and it’s like the past is repeating itself…

Review Card & Book Review – The Christmas Dog Sitters By Lucy Mitchell

Rachel is struggling. She’s navigating the loss of her best friend, she’s left heartbroken by her ex-boyfriend, and she’s recently been made redundant by her employer. So the impending holiday season is the last thing she wants to think about.

Then her rich sister suggests that Rachel dog-sit her spaniel, Humphrey, in her luxurious country house in a quaint village in Surrey. However, Rachel is soon manipulated into caring for her elderly Grandpa Eric, too. Between managing flight-risk Humphrey and rebellious Grandpa Eric, Rachel uncovers family truths, discovers a secretive west wing . . . and must cook Christmas dinner for an entire village.

Amid the chaos, Rachel meets handsome builder Ben. Working at the house, he’s also no stranger to loss, but is willing to re-enter the dating scene—albeit with a six-year-old daughter in tow. Can Rachel and Ben find their way through grief at this tricky time of year? And when a snowstorm threatens to ruin Christmas for everyone, can Rachel and Humphrey bring the community together?

About The Author

My Review

This is a heartwarming festive comedy that explores themes of love, loss, and new beginnings. The story centers on unexpected connections, furry friends, and the magic of the holiday season, capturing the emotional journey of characters who find comfort and healing through companionship. Mitchell skillfully blends humor, warmth, and heartfelt moments, creating a cozy and uplifting atmosphere. The characters’ experiences of love, second chances, and personal growth resonate deeply with readers. Set against a festive backdrop, the novel is filled with delightful moments of connection and the joy of new beginnings. With its mix of humor, heart, and Christmas magic, this is a perfect holiday read. It’s an inspiring tale that celebrates love, friendship, and the resilience of the human spirit, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a feel-good story that captures the essence of the holiday season.

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Review Card & Book Review- Once Upon A Boy Band By Jenny Proctor

Once upon a time, she slept with his poster beside her bed. Now he’s all grown up, hiding behind a burly beard and lots of flannel … and she doesn’t have a clue.

Eight years ago, Adam Driscoll walked away from his stage name—Deke—and the boyband that turned him into an international star before his eighteenth birthday.

And he never looked back.

It didn’t even matter that everyone blamed him for the band’s breakup. He might miss making music, but he had good reasons for walking. Give him solitude over thousands of screaming fans any day of the week.

These days, the only company he’s truly interested in is that of the vet who works closely with his dog rescue—Dr. Laney Lawson. She’s brilliant, funny, beautiful, and best of all, she has no idea he used to be a pop star.

But then Adam’s bandmates reach out about a one-time reunion concert benefiting a charity that’s close to his heart, and he starts to wonder if some things are worth a little extra attention. He loves the idea of singing again, but saying yes would out him to the small mountain community that has become his refuge. Worse, it would out him to Laney.

But old hurts can’t stay buried forever. And something tells Adam that scary or not, saying yes is the decision he needs to make. He just has to hope he doesn’t lose the life—or the woman—he loves in the process.

About The Author

My Review

In this charming small-town romance, Laney, a veterinarian, meets Adam, the rugged owner of a local dog rescue. They bond instantly over their love for music and dogs, and Adam finally musters the courage to ask her out. However, Laney has a sense of déjà vu—Adam is actually Deke Driscoll, her teenage crush and a former member of the boyband Midnight Rush. The story unfolds with sweet and realistic banter as Laney and Adam navigate their relationship before and after Laney discovers his true identity. The dual perspectives provide insight into Adam’s past and his decision to live a quiet life. While lighthearted and filled with humorous and heartwarming moments, the book also delves into deeper themes, such as grief. The characters are endearing (except for Kevin), and readers will find themselves rooting for them. Perfect for fans of small-town romances, this novel feels like a warm hug to boyband fans and those coping with loss. It’s a delightful read that will leave you eager for more from the author.

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Review Card & Book Review – Fall Into Temptation By Lucy Score

Beckett Pierce is the most eligible bachelor in the nosiest small town in upstate New York. But after his last girlfriend handcuffed herself to his porch and set his welcome mat on fire, he’s not looking for any more romance.

Especially if it lands right in his own backyard. And has miles of red hair.

Gianna Decker has her hands full—no, overflowing—with problems. With two kids, a useless ex, and a brand new yoga studio, the last thing on her mind is finding a man who’ll demand more of her time.

Fantasizing about her hot, broody landlord? Mistake. Lusting after the sexy mayor of her new town? Terrible idea. Getting naked with the “favorite” son of her father’s new lady friend? N-O. Getting involved with Beckett has disaster written all over it.

Those stolen kisses were accidental. A few moments of strings-free, sizzling passion couldn’t possibly cause any trouble. At least, not until tempers flare when their families complicate things and the interfering citizens of Blue Moon step in with their special brand of chaos.

About The Author

My Review

This is the second book in Lucy Score’s Blue Moon romance series, newly rebranded and published by Bloom Books. The story centers on Beckett Pierce, the logical and level-headed Pierce brother from the first book, “No More Secrets,” as he embarks on a romantic journey with his new tenant, single mom Gianna. While the fresh cover design and the republishing of Lucy Score’s work are exciting, this installment fell short of expectations. Despite Beckett being a favorite side character in the previous book, his quickness to judge and his irrational anger toward Gianna felt out of character, making this aspect of the story feel forced and unnecessary. Overall, the book didn’t fully deliver on the promise of Beckett’s character from the first novel.

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Review Card & Book Review- Winter Wishes In The Scottish Highlands By Donna Ashcroft

Singleton and city-girl Ivy Heart has just turned thirty. She’s a chronic list-maker, married to her five-year-plan, and can’t remember when she last had a Christmas off. This year is no different; PA to Lady Miriam Ballentine, Ivy has been tasked with bringing her estranged grandson home before Christmas Eve in return for a reference. With her dream job on the line, Ivy packs her bags for the snowy Scottish Highlands to track down the heir to the Ballentine estate.

But when Ivy arrives at Christmas Resort, she discovers Ross Ballentine is far from a polished Laird-to-be. Rough around the edges, free-spirited and jaw-droppingly gorgeous, Ivy is shocked when he drives off on his snowmobile at the first mention of his grandmother. Not taking his frosty tracks as an answer, Ivy books herself onto his reindeer spotting tour, determined to convince this recluse to return to his responsibilities at the crumbling family castle.

But events don’t follow Ivy’s meticulous schedule as she spends time with Ross in his rustic cabin, switching her phone and mind off to the demands of city life. Soon it’s not just the log fire heating up between them. Does Ivy have more in common with this grumpy woodsman than she thought?

About The Author

My Review

This is a heartwarming Christmas novel about love, self-discovery, and following one’s true path. Ivy Heart is torn between her passion for nature and her mother’s career expectations, while Ross Ballentine, a nature lover, left his family estate, Hawthorn Castle, burdened by guilt over his parents’ deaths.Ivy takes a job with Lady Miriam Ballentine to bring Ross back home by Christmas. Initially focused on her career, Ivy grows closer to Ross and starts to reconsider her ambitions, while Ross confronts his past. Set in a festive backdrop, this story offers a journey of healing and personal growth, with relatable characters and meaningful life lessons for a holiday read.

My Rating

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