Category Archives: Book Review

Review Card & Book Review – Match Me If You Can By Sandy Barker

Poppy Dean lives and breathes romance – in her job at least. As a matchmaker at an elite London agency, she spends her days finding the perfect Mr Right for pretty much everybody but herself.

When Tristan Fellows walks into the agency, Poppy knows she’s in for a challenge. A typical bachelor, Tristan has no intention of falling in love, but in order to receive his 30-million-pound inheritance, he must find himself a wife before his 35th birthday.

This may be Poppy’s hardest case yet, but even the most arrogant of men can sometimes warm a woman’s heart. And who knows, maybe it’s finally time for Poppy to find her happy ever after too?

About The Author

My Review

Poppy, a former psychologist working at the exclusive Ever After Agency in London, is tasked with finding a wife for Tristan, who needs to secure his grandfather’s fortune. Despite his reluctance for a love match, their initial hostility evolves into unexpected attraction. As Poppy navigates her professional and personal life, she finds herself drawn to Tristan’s depth and charm. The chemistry between them crackles with energy, adding to the charm of the story. With well-drawn characters, including supportive friends and intriguing potential matches for Tristan, the novel offers a delightful blend of romance, humor, and emotional depth. Set against the backdrop of London’s elite society, the story unfolds with plenty of laughs, poignant moments, and a satisfying slow-burn romance. Overall, “Ever After Agency” is a fabulous read that promises a unique and engaging story, making it a must-add to any reading list.

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Review Card & Book Review – Second Chances In Tuppenny Bridge By Sharon Booth

The end-of-summer sunset kisses the golden stone of Tuppenny Bridge’s Market Square and children chase fireflies past gardens brimming with sunflowers. Last year, Kat Pennyfeather’s life was turned upside down, but it seems destiny isn’t finished with her yet…

Kat Pennyfeather knows the joys and challenges of parenthood all too well – she’s been thrown into the deep end as a single, first-time mother to adorable baby Hattie. With the unwavering support of her beloved great aunties, affectionately known as The Lavender Ladies, and the sanctuary of her cosy home above Pennyfeather’s Wool Shop, Kat is holding things together…. mostly.

Across town, Jonah Brewster finds himself navigating the treacherous path of single parenthood after a painful divorce and unexpected loss. Jonah longs for stability, but the last thing he wants are the blind dates his well-meaning sister is constantly thrusting upon him.

When Kat and Jonah unexpectedly reconnect in the Market Café, something sparks between them. They’ve known each other for years, but now there’s a newfound understanding there… and, at least for Kat, something else too. But their shared past holds more than comfortable friendship – a terrible tragedy and some difficult unspoken truths. Can Kat and Jonah defy the odds and embrace an unexpected chance for happiness?

Meanwhile, The Lavender Ladies are making their own secret plans. Kat, well aware of their mischievous ways, hopes that whatever it is won’t put her job in the wool shop at risk. But when the truth is finally revealed, it’s so much worse than she thought. What on earth is she going to do now?

About The Author

My Review

“Second Chances in Tuppenny Bridge” aptly portrays a couple getting another shot at love and starting anew after facing life’s challenges. Kat and Jonah, childhood friends reunited, navigate their complicated lives as single parents with warmth and humor. The story, told from their perspectives, delves into their struggles, heartaches, and the budding romance between them. Despite their hardships, they find solace and support in each other, leading to a transformative journey. With bursts of humor and a cozy atmosphere, the novel draws readers in, making it easy to empathize with the characters and their emotional journeys. As Kat and Jonah’s stories unfold gradually, the author skillfully addresses heavier topics and offers viable solutions, creating a well-composed and compelling read. Overall, “Second Chances in Tuppenny Bridge” is a heartwarming tale of love, resilience, and new beginnings that readers won’t want to put down.

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Review Card & Book Review – In From The Cold By Sarah Bennett

Amelia Riley and Ben Lawson have something in common – fathers who have kept secrets.

On the day of his father’s funeral, Ben’s life changes forever when a woman he’s never met shows up claiming to be his sister. As he investigates the past, Ben is shaken to discover that much of his life has been built on a carefully constructed foundation of his father’s lies. Needing answers, he agrees to visit Juniper Meadows, the ancestral estate owned and run by his long-lost relatives, the Travers family.

Arriving in the pretty Cotswolds countryside, the first person Ben meets is Amelia Riley. They are immediately drawn to one another, but Amelia has her own complicated ties to the Travers family. Her only goal is to set the past to rights so she can move on with a clean conscience.

As Ben starts to see the events of his childhood more clearly, he allows the warmth and fun he finds at Juniper Meadows to draw him in from the cold. But just as he’s contemplating setting down roots, Amelia is making plans to leave…

About The Author

My Review

The story revolves around two main characters, Amelia and Ben, whose perspectives alternate throughout the narrative. Amelia grapples with her father’s criminal actions and her pride prevents her from accepting help, despite genuine kindness from those around her. Ben, a grieving son, discovers he has a newfound family and navigates meeting them for the first time at Juniper Meadows. The warm welcome he receives and his transformation under the Travers family’s care highlights the importance of family and close friendships. Despite the wintery cover, the story is set in autumn, culminating in a Halloween celebration, but the warmth of the characters compensates for any seasonal expectations. Overall, the novel explores themes of self-discovery and the significance of familial and friendship bonds, making it a compelling read.

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Review Card & Book Review – Only For Christmas By Tracy Corbett

One month to pretend… or one month to fall in love?

How do I turn down an overly keen colleague I have zero interest in dating? Should I:

Stammer and bluster my way through every excuse in the book
Accept and then immediately turn in my resignation letter, change my number and leave the country
Allow my hot, new, doctor neighbour to step in and pretend to be my boyfriend

The answer: there are no right answers.

But option 3 is happening and I’m fake dating Lucas just to survive my work Christmas party without any further unwanted advances.

About The Author

My Review

Sarah, head of HR at a London hospital, is still recovering from being jilted and has sworn off men. When the new hospital director, Dr. Lucas Moore, takes an interest in her, Sarah agrees to let him pretend to be her boyfriend. Despite her prickly demeanor, Sarah finds herself drawn to the sweet and kind Lucas. Their slow-burn romance unfolds against the backdrop of Christmas in London, with vivid descriptions adding to the cozy atmosphere. Alongside their relationship, other storylines involving nosy neighbors, family drama, and Sarah’s unsettling boss provide depth to the narrative. Emotional moments and relatable characters make this a heartwarming read, despite some uncomfortable themes. Overall, “Christmas in London” is an engaging story with a satisfying conclusion and a perfect pick for the holiday season.

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Review Card & Book Review – Winter At The Dog & Duck By Jill Steeples

Ellie Browne has left behind her high-flying job in London to return to the charming Buckinghamshire village of Little Leyton.

Working shifts at the Dog and Duck pub and running her own doggy-daycare business, Ellie’s looking for a simpler way of life in this idyllic English setting.

But Little Leyton’s landscape is changing: Johnny Tay, Ellie’s ex, wants to pick up where they left off; sultry property developer Max Golding has moved into the village and is ruffling feathers; and rumour has it that the pub, which holds a special place in Ellie’s heart, might be sold. Suddenly, life’s looking a whole lot more complicated…. Can Ellie overcome all the challenges to finally find her one true love?

About The Author

My Review

The story follows Ellie as she juggles her new dog-walking business and shifts at The Dog and Duck pub. While the setting is cozy and familiar, the plot feels predictable and lacking freshness, reminiscent of similar themes explored by other authors. One glaring issue is the inclusion of the refugee crisis, which feels out of place in a chick-lit novel and isn’t adequately addressed. Additionally, the extensive introductions of even minor characters feel unnecessary. The plot meanders through various subplots without clear direction, leaving the impression that the author lacked focus. Despite these flaws, the book touches on current issues like the Syrian refugee crisis, adding depth to the narrative. Overall, it’s a heartwarming Christmas read with endearing characters, perfect for the holiday season, but may not offer much beyond its familiar setting.

My Rating

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Review Card & Book Review – Second Chance Love In Point Perry By Joanne Speirs

Two broken hearts learning how to live – and love – again.

After a devastating tragedy shakes Erin’s world, she returns to her hometown of Point Perry seeking solace and a fresh start. But just as she begins to find her footing, an unexpected visitor and an old enemy threaten to upend her life once again.

Tom, a devoted single father and beloved teacher, is no stranger to turmoil. His ex-wife, now a Hollywood starlet, has descended upon Point Perry for her movie premiere, stirring up trouble and putting Tom’s priorities to the test. As the town buzzes with excitement over the event, Tom must also navigate a strained relationship with his father and protect his son from his ex’s manipulations.

Despite their emotional scars and obstacles, Erin and Tom can’t ignore their growing connection. As they begin to explore the chance for a future together, they must confront their past traumas and find a way to move forward. Will their love be enough to overcome the challenges they face, or will their emotional baggage prove too heavy to bear?

About The Author

My Review

Erin Fitzgerald, reeling from a tumultuous year, returns to her hometown of Point Perry to confront her past and bring her mother’s ashes home. There, she crosses paths with Tom Schultz, a single dad and school teacher, whose ex-wife’s return complicates his life. Despite their emotional baggage, Erin and Tom find themselves drawn to each other, their budding romance complicated by buried secrets and unexpected revelations. As they navigate their feelings, the supportive community of Point Perry offers a backdrop of healing and second chances. “Point Perry Promises” is a heartfelt and emotional romance that will make readers laugh, cry, and fall in love with its endearing characters. Joanne Speirs delivers a captivating debut novel that promises more heartwarming stories to come.

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Review Card & Book Review – Sunny Days At The Second Chances Sweet Shop By Hannah Lynn

A getaway to remember…

It’s Holly’s best friend’s hen do and the plan is a week away in the South of France.

With little Hope still so very young, it’s going to be difficult for Holly to tear herself away, but Ben is the perfect co-parent and her own parents are just down the road, so – Holly decides – there’s really nothing holding her back, is there?

Will the sunshine and sea air help her get back to who she really is? Or will this be the perfect distraction, a chance to have a holiday fling?

About The Author

My Review

Holly reluctantly leaves her village and her baby behind for a getaway with friends, but finds herself torn between enjoying the luxurious villa and missing her daughter. Amidst laugh-out-loud moments and romantic prospects, Holly grapples with motherhood and personal growth. Lynn skillfully portrays Holly’s internal struggle and her journey of self-discovery under the French sun. Set in the picturesque South of France, the novel evokes a sense of wanderlust and warmth. As Holly navigates motherhood, friendship, and romance, readers will cheer her on in this heartwarming tale of second chances and the sweetness of life. “Sunny Days at the Second Chances Sweet Shop” is the perfect choice for a feel-good read and a literary escape to the French Riviera.

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Review Card & Book Review – Wild Ride By Leslie North

Wild horses couldn’t tear these hearts apart…

Trevor Wild will do anything to save his beloved Wildhorse Ranch… Including starting up a trendy glamping side business—something as alien to him as a day out the saddle.

Luckily, smart and sassy Sabrina Hearthstone is an expert. Trevor’s hired her to live on the ranch while she sets up a glamping experience on his land. But it doesn’t long for Sabrina to disrupt his life, in more ways than one. Trevor’s got a ranch to save, and the last thing he needs is to fall for a beautiful woman. But his heart seems to have other plans…

Sabrina might be an expert at revamping, but she has no intention of making over gorgeous cowboy Trevor Wild, even if she is wildly attracted to him. He’s stuck in his ways, stubborn as a mule… But sexier than any man she’s ever known. When they aren’t butting heads, they’re trading kisses that set her heart racing, and leave her weak in the knees.

But Trevor still doesn’t trust her, and Sabrina can’t keep waiting for him to realize she’s more than just some city girl. When disaster strikes, she’ll have to make a choice…

But can she be happy without her Wild man?

About The Author

My Review

Trevor faces financial struggles on his ranch and reluctantly agrees to the idea of “glamping” to generate income. Sabrina, the glamorous woman in charge of the project, clashes with Trevor’s practical and down-to-earth personality. Despite their differences, they find themselves drawn to each other, navigating compromise and romance along the way. Their unlikely relationship brings warmth and charm to Wildhorse Ranch, making it a delightful read for romance enthusiasts seeking a feel-good story.

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Review Card & Book Review – Christmas At The Cat Cafe By Jessica Redland

It had always been Tabby’s dream to work with cats and an inheritance from her beloved nanna has finally made that a reality. Idyllic Castle Street in Whitsborough Bay couldn’t be a better place for pastry chef Tabby to open a cat café with her boyfriend, Leon

But when Leon leaves her in the lurch, the pressure mounts for Tabby. With Christmas fast approaching, she has to open the café on her own – a daunting prospect, especially when she’s been hiding her health issues from the ones she loves.

Faced with local resistance to the café – and somebody seemingly determined that she won’t succeed – Tabby will need her friends, family and cats more than ever to recover her broken Christmas spirit and pull together for a Christmas miracle.

Will the cat café bring the festive joy to Castle Street as Tabby had hoped or will it be a cat-astrophe? And can the magic of Christmas on Castle Street mend Tabby’s broken heart as well as her business?

About The Author

My Review

Tabby, a pastry chef with a passion for cats, dreams of opening a cat café. When she inherits money from her grandmother, she plans to make her dream a reality with her boyfriend, Leon. However, her world is turned upside down when she’s diagnosed with severe Fibromyalgia and Leon leaves her. Tabby struggles to cope but finds solace in her friends and family. Despite the setbacks, she perseveres in pursuing her dream and finds unexpected romance with Tommy, who supports her through her illness. “Christmas at the Cat Café” is a touching tale that delves into themes of love, resilience, and the importance of finding happiness amidst life’s challenges, making it a must-read for cat lovers and those seeking heartfelt stories.

My Rating

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