Category Archives: Book Review

Review Card & Book Review- Too Busy For Love By Phoebe MacLeod

For Beatrice, working at one of London’s boutique hotels is a dream come true. She doesn’t need a social life. She just needs an ordered diary, crisply folded sheets and happy guests. But Beatrice’s routine comes to an abrupt halt when her hotel is raided by the police and all the staff are arrested. Suddenly she finds herself released on bail, and trapped in London, with only the hotel chef Jock for company.

Having decided to make the most of their situation, Beatrice lets her hair down – figuratively and literally – for the first time in her life. And incredibly, despite the threat of possible prison around the corner, she finds she loves every moment spent exploring London in Jock’s company.

But all bubbles have to burst, so when the pair are released without charge, it’s time for Beatrice to get her life, and her career, back on track. She can’t let a little thing called feelings get in her way… So why can’t she forget Jock, even when her career dreams look set to become reality?

Beatrice may like to keep life fully booked, but can you ever really be too busy for love?

About The Author

My Review

Beatrice enjoys a perfect life managing a posh boutique hotel in upscale London, excelling due to her perfectionist nature. Her world crumbles when the hotel is raided, and she is arrested as a potential accomplice in a prostitution ring operating out of her workplace. Awaiting the investigation’s outcome, Beatrice is released on bail and spends time with the hotel’s chef, Jock. Together, they explore London, and romantic sparks fly, prompting Beatrice to envision a new future.

After being exonerated, Beatrice and Jock part ways to pursue new careers. As Beatrice builds her new life, she repeatedly reflects on her whirlwind week with Jock and questions whether life should be more than just work. Will their paths cross again, or is life too busy for love?

The book starts strong, hinting at a future for Beatrice and Jock, but loses momentum when they separate. The story then focuses more on Beatrice’s self-discovery than their romance. Despite fond memories, neither character takes action to reconnect, making the narrative frustrating and dull after the first quarter. Beatrice’s relationships with other characters are interesting, but the story feels disconnected from its beginning, slowing the pace.

The novel shifts from romance to personal growth, with an anticlimactic reunion. While Phoebe’s writing is vivid, the promising start fizzles into a less engaging narrative, focusing on Beatrice’s relationships and personal journey rather than developing the initial romantic plot. Their reunion feels forced and unrealistic, given their lack of meaningful connection, leading to a disappointing conclusion.

My Rating

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Review Card & Book Review – No Romeo By Donna Alam

Scandal meets sizzle when a runaway bride’s quick getaway lands her in the arms of her almost-groom’s rival, but he has more than business on his mind when he makes her an offer she can’t refuse.

Your wedding day is meant to be the happiest day of your life. Not the day you discover your groom is a cheating jerk.

When I run, strong arms catch me. It’s just a shame they belong to my ex’s nemesis, Oliver Deubel. Rich and powerful, the man is sin in a suit. He’s also arrogant, demanding, and infuriatingly irresistible.

When my wedding disaster goes viral and deportation hangs over my head, Oliver offers me a deal: help him ruin my ex in exchange for my visa. The fine print? Move in with him.

I want to laugh in his face, until I discover how ruthless he is. So I decide to repay him by making his life a living hell, and he retaliates by…being nice to me. Which is where things become really weird as lines blur and pretend suddenly begins to feel real.

But Oliver is no Romeo, and only a fool would fall for him.

Worryingly, I think that fool might be me.

About The Author

My Review

The story features a mix of tropes and situations, including opposites attract, rival’s ex-fiancée, forced proximity, scandal, social media frenzy, and a business conflict. It delves into themes of friendship, activism, mysterious love, and redemption.

The narrative kicks off with a dramatic and humorous start, featuring a memorable meet-cute. Evelyn (Evie/Eve) flees her wedding after discovering her fiancé’s infidelity, causing chaos. She ends up in the lap of Oliver Deubel, her ex-fiancé’s biggest rival. Oliver seizes this chance to get back at his rival, Mitchell Atherton.

Despite Oliver’s morally questionable offer, Eve and Oliver develop a strong connection. Eve stays in the UK, posing as Oliver’s fake fiancée to remain in her newfound home. Their relationship evolves from proximity and curiosity to admiration and desire.

The story’s detailed and accurate writing brings a diverse cast to life, set in the UK with authentic British characters. Eve and Oliver navigate their attraction and uncertain future, balancing deception and genuine connection. The gossip column adds intrigue and humor.

Supporting characters, including Eve’s friends and Oliver’s acquaintances, enrich the story. Despite obstacles and misunderstandings, Oliver’s determination to keep Eve and their deep mutual understanding ultimately drive the plot toward a hopeful future.

My Rating

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Happy Publication Day – 29 January 2025

Old Girls’ Chateau Escape By Kate Galley

Two old friends. One unexpected adventure!

When, at the age of 71, Gina Knight’s husband of four decades left her unexpectedly, she thought her life over. Until she met Dorothy Reed – a woman so full of the joie de vivre you’d think she was 21, not nearly 90. Gina would do anything for Dorothy. So when Dorothy suggests she take on the role of companion for one of Dorothy’s old friends, Gina sees no reason to say no.

Meredith Harper is a successful writer, living in Provence, and needs help looking after her husband, whose health is deteriorating. But when Gina arrives at the grand chateau, it becomes clear that Dorothy has not given Gina the full story. Because Meredith is also writing her memoirs, and Dorothy wants to know the contents before anyone else. So much so, she’s sent Gina to spy.

But what secrets is Meredith keeping? And will Gina be able to find out the truth before her cover’s blown?

The Little Island Flower Stall By Tilly Tennant

Escape to a colourful little flower stall on the island of Jersey with its sweeping golden beaches. The perfect place for Bella to discover that a heartbreaking family secret might just help her find a new beginning…

When Bella’s heart is broken by her cheating husband, she runs towards those who love her and won’t let her down. Packing a bag, she escapes to Jersey, to help her beloved great-aunt Celestine run her seaside flower stall.

Soon Bella begins to find peace as she arranges wildflowers in vases and learns lessons about life from Celestine, who has loved and lost many times during her years on the island. But when charismatic, brooding Rory arrives at the flower stall, seeking answers about his own family’s past, could all that be about to change?

Bella can’t help but be drawn to Rory, with his aquamarine eyes, and as they walk together under vast blue skies, discussing his tragic family history, Bella wonders if her great-aunt might be able to help.

But when Bella shows Celestine a letter about Rory’s lost grandfather, hidden on the island during the war, her beloved aunt shuts her out. What does Celestine know and why won’t she open her heart? And when Bella discovers that Rory has been keeping something important from her, she fears she has trusted the wrong person once again…

Bella is determined to get to the bottom of the long-buried secret at the heart of this beautiful island. Can it bring her the new beginning that she desperately needs?

Review Card & Book Review – Murder In Portofino By T A Williams

A much-needed holiday…

Dan Armstrong hasn’t done much retiring since moving to Tuscany, and with his new career as a successful private investigator taking off, it seems murder seems to follow him. He’s hoping a much-needed trip to beautiful Portofino will give him the break he needs and quality time with girlfriend Anna.

A gathering of celebrities…

Portofino is a celebrity paradise, and holidaying on a nearby superyacht is a group of British media stars, all famous for being infamous. Dan isn’t impressed by their status or wealth, but when he overhears an argument between two of the group, he suspects something fishy could be going on…

A cold-blooded killer?

And then a body is washed up on shore and Dan’s hopes for a holiday go overboard. Could this simply be a tragic accident or is there a killer amidst the assembled celebrity cast? Dan and Oscar have their work cut out before the tide turns…

About The Author

My Review

In this murder mystery story, private investigator Dan and his black lab, Oscar, outsmart local authorities amidst a backdrop of extortion, theft, gun running, and the misdeeds of British TV executives and stars on a luxury yacht. The narrative keeps readers guessing with numerous suspects and complex connections between them and the victims, some of whom aren’t even on the yacht.

Dan’s investigation is complicated by his desire to work during a vacation with his love interest, Anna, adding personal tension to the story. While the Italian authorities’ cooperation with Dan may seem unrealistic, the plot remains engaging, especially with Oscar playing a crucial role.

The series, which travels through Italy, highlights the Tuscan walled city of Lucca and small towns along the Ligurian coast, leaving readers eager for Dan and Oscar’s next adventure.

My Rating

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Review Card & Book Review – The Honeystone Village Diaries By Kate Forster

A mile outside the Cotswolds, everyone knows everyone in Honeystone, and for many years the villagers have lived quiet, steady lives. But a wind of change is here…

Anthea is the new owner of Spindle Hall. A renowned perfumer who lost her sense of smell, she’s not interested in making new friends. Yet somehow that seems impossible in this idyllic village.

Years ago, Peony left Honeystone with a broken heart, and now she has returned with it freshly bruised. Her single father, Robert, is struggling with slow business at the Hare and Thistle pub. Perhaps this time they can help each other?

Izzy has never known what she wants to do in life other than be at Raspberry Hill Farm and care for her little niece, Clover. But when a new doctor shows up in town, she starts to wonder…

About The Author

My Review

Honeystone is a quaint English village overshadowed by the nearby Cotswolds, causing tourists to overlook it. However, the true charm of Honeystone lies in its villagers, particularly the women. The book follows Peony, Izzy, Anthea, and Dora, with perspectives from Robert, Connor, and Joe.

Robert, the pub owner, is Peony’s father. Peony, back from London, is Connor’s ex-girlfriend, which complicates her relationship with Izzy, Connor’s sister. Connor has a daughter with cerebral palsy, adding depth to his story. Joe, the new village doctor, often interacts with Clover, Connor’s daughter, with Izzy accompanying them. Dora works at the pub and is trying to escape her abusive husband. Anthea, a former perfume industry success, is starting over after COVID-related anosmia and a divorce.

Kate Forster’s writing is light and charming, reminiscent of Jane Austen and Elizabeth Gaskell, capturing the essence of British village life with a magical touch. Despite its perfect ending, it’s a delightful read for dreamers and hopefuls.

My Rating

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Review Card & Book Review – Home Again For Christmas By Emily Stone

Lexie is always on the move, but there is one constant in her life – her ‘wish jar’; the childhood tradition from home that she couldn’t leave behind.

When Lexie’s estranged dad dies, she is shocked to learn that she has inherited half of his travel company in Bath. Her dad’s will stipulates that she must work with Theo, her handsome but bad tempered business partner, for a year.

Once the year is over, Lexie intends to leave. But a work trip to sizzling Spain reveals a chemistry between Lexie and Theo that is impossible to deny.

Will Lexie find a reason to stay in one place? Will she discover the secret her father kept from her, and finally learn the meaning of home?

About The Author

My Review

The story explores Lexie’s passion for travel, inherited from her father, who divorced her mother when she was young, leading to their estrangement. After his death, Lexie must manage his business with Theo, starting with a rocky relationship that develops into a compelling love story. The book features rich side characters like the strong and influential Angela, who plays a crucial role. The narrative also delves into Lexie’s family dynamics and her father’s impact on her and her sister, evoking strong emotions. The wish jar tradition Lexie shared with her father adds a touching element. The detailed trips and the intertwining personal stories make this more than a typical romance novel. It’s a heartwarming Christmas read, prompting readers to cherish family bonds and traditions.

My Rating

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Review Card & Book Review – Party Favors By Sariah Wilson

For as long as she can remember, Everly Aprile has been obsessed with the Monterran royals, especially Queen Kat: elegant, self-possessed, and living a fairy-tale romance. As for Everly, her career as an event planner has stalled—and so has her love life. Then a wealthy new client wants a sweet-sixteen party that’s fit for an American princess. Practicing her “What Would Kat Do” mantra, Everly offers to bring it to life by immersing herself in everything Monterra.

Call it intervento divino when she meets dizzyingly handsome and charismatic Max Colby, who’s relocated stateside from the Monterran kingdom of her dreams. If Everly promises to be his New York City guide, he’ll teach her the customs and culture of Monterra so her party gets a boost of authenticity. Deal. As their friendship grows, Everly starts falling—but for what? Another unattainable obsession? Max is such a dreamboat that surely he sees her as just a friend.

Her royal to-do list is in order. She’s revamping her life and learning to believe in herself. Maybe, just maybe, there’s a chance for fate to bring Everly her happily ever after after all.

About The Author

My Review

This is a sweet romance with a touch of royal fairytale. Everly, kind-hearted and vulnerable from her past, never imagined someone like Max, charismatic and sexy, would fall for her. Working as an assistant to a cold boss at an event management company, Everly deserves a promotion. Her chance comes with a big presentation she nails, but she needs information on Monterran culture for the theme. She meets Max, a handsome Monterran man, at a bar, and he’s kind and caring despite being out of her league. Everly is talented but plagued by insecurities. Her supportive roommate Vella helps her see her worth. Max, a perfect boyfriend, also has secrets that almost ruin everything. In the end, Everly faces life boldly, and Max shows his love in meaningful ways. The fictional Monterran element and Everly’s crush on her boss felt unnecessary and slowed the story’s pace.

My Rating

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Review Card & Book Review – A Class Act By Julie Houston

Robyn Allen is finally getting closer to her dream of West End stardom. And along with her role dancing in the latest hot musical, she’s being wined and dined by an equally hot man – the wildly successful and well-connected Fabian Carrington. But one slip up and her dreams are shattered, and Robyn has to hobble back to the Yorkshire village of Beddingfield, and the life she hoped she’d escaped.

Moving back into her mum’s house with her recalcitrant teenage sister Sorrel, next door to her older sister Jess who’s fed up with picking up the slack, is not how Robyn pictured her year. But there’s more to come. Sorrel needs a new school, and the school needs a new drama teacher. Despite having vowed never to teach again, Robyn knows she has to support her sister.

So together Sorrel and Robyn vow to take on St Mede’s – home to jokers, tearaways and trouble-makers, but with a hidden heartbeat ready to be inspired. And who knows, the kids might have something to teach Robyn about life too…

About The Author

My Review

The book is divided into two halves, with Robyn’s life in London and then in Yorkshire. Initially, Robyn lives above a Soho kebab shop, working as a waitress while dreaming of a West End role. Her relationship with barrister Fabian introduces her to a new lifestyle but also exposes her to prejudice. Robyn’s strong sense of right and wrong and pride in her heritage contrast with Fabian’s moral ambiguities. The story then shifts to Yorkshire, where Robyn returns to help her struggling family, especially her troubled teenage sister Sorrel. She secures Sorrel a school place on the condition she teaches drama and dance. The narrative is filled with surprises, new relationships, and challenges, all set within a warmly depicted family dynamic. The author handles serious issues sensitively, blends humor, and develops romantic elements with unexpected twists. This heartwarming, well-told story makes a promising start to a new series.

My Rating

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