Category Archives: Book Review

Review Card & Book Review – Old Girls On Deck By Maddie Please

It’s never too late to sail a new course…

When retired Jill Parker wins an all-expenses paid mediterranean cruise for two she is thrilled! At 63 life in retirement has got a little bit bland for Jill and this might be just the holiday she and husband Eddy need to get the sparks back in their marriage.

But when Eddy admits he would much prefer to build his patio and look through the latest DIY magazine, Jill is left with only one other option – her sister Diana.

Diana has become rather reclusive since her husband, Caspar died, but perhaps this is the push she needs to bring some excitement back into her life, too?

Could this trip be just what both sisters need to reconnect and chart a new path for their futures?

Excited to be exploring new horizons and catching up, the sisters soon discover that not everything is smooth sailing on board. And as they enjoy cocktails together at sundown, they discover that they are both actually a little all at sea…

About The Author

My Review

“Old Girls On Deck” by Maddie Please is a delightful contemporary novel centered on two sisters in their sixties who embark on a cruise, where they meet an octogenarian who shows them how to enjoy life. The story emphasizes that aging doesn’t mean settling and encourages living life to the fullest. One sister, a widow of five years, learns to step out of her late husband’s shadow and embrace her own identity, while the other sister, with her newly retired husband, discovers the joys of exploration beyond domestic routines. Set against the vibrant backdrop of the Mediterranean, the novel is filled with witty dialogue and vivid sensory descriptions.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Review Card & Book Review – Blue Skies Over Wildflower Lock By Hannah Lynn

There may be trouble ahead…

Just when Daisy thought she had canal life understood, Theo, her primary go-to for all of her boating questions has left Wildflower Lock, not to mention the budding romance that has been steadily growing.

Not one to sit and wallow, Daisy takes matters into her own hands. Who said long-distance relationships can’t work?

With the help of trusted friend Yvonne, Daisy takes the September Rose on a round trip to surprise her new boyfriend. The best thing about a home on the water? You can go anywhere!

But perhaps leaving the serenity of Wildflower Lock wasn’t the best idea. Daisy hates keeping secrets from Theo, and she’s not the only one…

About The Author

My Review

This is a charming and uplifting novel that invites readers into the picturesque world of Wildflower Lodge. With her evocative prose, Lynn paints a vivid picture of the lodge and its stunning natural surroundings, making it a perfect escape for those seeking a heartwarming read.

This instalment allows us to find out more about Daisy and Theo and the other characters but we also get to hear a bit more about Yvonne’s story and I absolutely loved the way her friendship with Daisy became cemented during the course of this story and how the bond between these two women grew as well as Daisy’s relationship with her mum changing. The descriptions of the settings and the sights and sounds make the reader think they are actually on the narrow boat doing the journey themselves and as usual with these books they transport me back to happy memories of barge holidays from my youth. I would love to go back and do another one, one day . The characters are well-developed and relatable, each bringing their unique quirks and warmth to the story. The romantic subplot is sweet and satisfying, adding an extra layer of charm to the story.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Review Card & Book Review – Happy Ever After At Puddleduck Farm By Della Galton

When life throws up the unexpected, can Phoebe hold strong?

In the idyllic setting of the New Forest, talented vet Phoebe Dashwood envisions a picturesque life alongside her beloved fiancé. However, the course of true love is fraught with unexpected hurdles.

Career wise, Phoebe encounters a goat who is seemingly experiencing a phantom pregnancy, and a highly-strung talking parrot who pushes her professionalism to the limits.

Things take an unexpected turn for the worse when Phoebe is confronted with a glamorous love rival, and a surprise Valentine’s Day ‘date’ to see a financial advisor! Can things get any worse?

When tragedy strikes Phoebe realises that nothing in life should be taken for granted and fears she will lose everything she holds dear.

Whilst her friends find their own happy endings, Phoebe is beset with doubts that she and Sam will never find theirs. Is love enough to carry them into the future they deserve?

About The Author

My Review

This book is a delightful and heartwarming read that transports readers to the idyllic countryside of Puddleduck Farm. Galton’s storytelling shines as she weaves a tale of love, community, and second chances, creating a book that feels like a warm hug.

The protagonist, Phoebe, is endearing and relatable as she navigates the challenges of rural life while trying to restore the farm to its former glory. Her journey is filled with ups and downs, but her determination and optimism keep the story engaging. The romance subplot is charming and well-paced, with a perfect blend of tension and tenderness that will keep readers rooting for Phoebe’s happy ending.The themes of community support, resilience, and finding happiness in unexpected places are beautifully explored. Galton’s ability to balance lighthearted moments with deeper emotional undertones makes this book a satisfying read.

Overall, it is a perfect escape for anyone looking for a feel-good story with relatable characters and a picturesque setting. It’s a testament to the power of perseverance and the magic of finding love and happiness where you least expect it. Highly recommended for fans of contemporary romance and heartwarming fiction.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Review Card & Book Review – Love Signals By Melanie Summers

Allie Cammareri is about to get her revenge. It’s been twelve years coming, but she’s finally going to defeat the ex who stole her research then dumped her.

She’s in a race against him to finish the same big project, and there can only be one winner. All she needs is a few more weeks of working around the clock, and victory will be hers.

So when her boss announces she’s being pulled off the project to mentor a Hollywood A-lister who’s preparing for an upcoming movie role, Allie is devastated. She doesn’t care that it’s People’s Sexiest Man, Hudson Finch.

Allie refuses to let him get in her way, even if Hudson is the most distracting (and delicious-smelling) man on the planet. But between the close confines of her tiny office and a night stranded together in a secluded mountain cabin, her feelings for Hudson turn into something she never could’ve predicted.

She may be falling hard for him, but can Allie really find her happily ever after in his muscley arms?

About The Author

My Review

Dr. Allie Cammareri, brilliant but unlucky in love, must prepare actor Hudson Finch for a role as her institute’s founder. Allie aims to complete her groundbreaking project solo, but unexpectedly falls for Hudson, Hollywood’s heartthrob with hidden dyslexia and self-doubt. Their journey is filled with funny, sweet moments as they overcome their past issues. Allie’s large, opinionated Italian family adds humor and complications. Hudson’s handsome image hides his self-doubt, but his genuine caring nature emerges, deepening their connection.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Review Card & Book Review – The Plot Twist By Victoria Walters

One new boss, one ex-boyfriend, one big dilemma…

Stevie Phillips has just landed her dream job at a publishing company, ready to begin a new chapter in her life.

But her first day throws more curveballs than she thinks she can handle: a sudden company takeover sees the publicity team fired, and her new boss is the last person she wanted to see — her ex-boyfriend, Noah Anderson.

Assigned to a difficult book campaign, Stevie is determined to prove herself and not let Noah, the man who broke her heart, stand in her way. But as they work closely together, Noah hints that their breakup wasn’t as straightforward as she thought.

Is getting back with an ex ever a good idea, especially when he’s your boss?

About The Author

My Review

“The Plot Twist” centers on Stevie Phillips, who starts her dream job at a publishing house only to find her new boss is her ex, Noah Anderson. With staff leaving due to a takeover, a demanding author, and a romance-hating colleague, Stevie faces multiple challenges. Passionate about defending the romance genre, she rallies her colleagues, while navigating the sizzling chemistry with Noah. The book filled with humor, romance, and industry insights, it’s a must-read for book lovers.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Review Card & Book Review – The Lumberjack By Susan Stoker

A game of chance during a horrific POW experience decided the future for Jackson “JJ” Justice and his teammates. Years later, they’re well settled into their lumberjack business in small-town Maine. And for nearly as long, JJ’s been pining for April, the woman largely responsible for growing their business, but insecurities keep him at arm’s length from the sexy receptionist.

April Hoffman loves her job…and her boss. She’s unsure where JJ’s head is at, but for her part, she knows exactly why she’s not revealed her feelings. Not only does she have one failed relationship under her belt, she’s also several years older than JJ. Why would a man so brutally hot settle for someone almost past her prime?

After a car accident nearly takes April’s life, leaving her with temporary amnesia, they both understand what they almost lost. The floodgates are open, their feelings exposed…but it may be too little, too late.

An enemy from JJ’s past has come calling, putting not only his future happiness on the line, but the lives of several people he holds dear—starting with April.

About The Author

My Review

This book features compelling characters: Jack, a protective and possessive former soldier deeply in love with the older April, and April, whose memory slowly returns in a realistic manner. The story highlights Jack’s vulnerability and insecurity, making his devotion to April endearing. Their journey to acknowledge and accept their feelings is sweetly portrayed, with a near tragedy cementing their mutual love. Stoker’s universe, with its strong bonds and realistic characters, adds depth, despite some stilted dialogue and repetitive proclamations about “our women” and “our men.”

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Review Card & Book Review – Love Story By Lindsey Kelk

She’s a small-town schoolteacher, he’s a hotshot creative director. Together, it’s hate at first sight.

Sophie Taylor has a secret and Joe Walsh is the last person she’d tell. He’s devilishly handsome, incredibly hot – and far too sure of himself.

But Sophie desperately needs his help.

Because she’s not just hiding something small. She is Este Cox, the mysterious romance author the entire world is desperate to unmask.

When a trip to the countryside means sharing a cottage with only one bed, it’s a short step to sharing a whole lot more besides… Can Sophie trust Joe with the truth – and be herself?

About The Author

My Review

“Love Story” is set over a chaotic weekend, featuring Sophie, a bestselling romance novelist writing under a pen name to hide her success from her snobbish publishing parents. Sophie’s journey explores internalized misogyny faced by romance writers and readers. The banter between Sophie, her family, and Joe—whose trustworthiness is questioned until the end—adds humor, especially in roasting Sophie’s ex. Kelk highlights the unfair belittlement of romance literature, celebrating its value and giving shout-outs to fellow romance authors.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Review Card & Book Review – We Were On A Break By Jo Lovett

A summer to remember…

A love to last a lifetime…

Stranded in Rome, with all planes grounded due to volcanic ash, Callum gratefully accepts a lift back to London with a friend-of-a-friend who’s on her way home after a European road trip in a campervan.

But when he meets her, his heart plummets – she’s Emma, his ex, The ex, and he can’t be stuck in a van with her.

When Emma sees Callum again, she’s horrified. It’s taken so many years to heal her heart – she really doesn’t want to spend the next few days in close quarters with him.

As they embark on the drive of a lifetime, it begins to feel as though fate might have had a hand in reuniting them. But understanding what happened in the past and coming to terms with the present isn’t easy. Can the gift of time – and forced proximity – bring them back together again?

About The Author

My Review

“We Were on a Break” by Jo Lovett is a charming romantic comedy set against the scenic backdrop of Italy and France. The story follows exes Callum and Emma, who reunite unexpectedly when stranded in Rome due to a volcanic ash cloud. Emma offers Callum a ride back to London in her camper van, Miranda. As they travel, they confront unresolved feelings and past misunderstandings. Lovett’s well-developed characters and a blend of humor and emotional depth make this a delightful read about second chances and rekindled love, perfect for fans of light-hearted, nostalgic romance.

My Rating

Link To Purchase