Portia Fortescue has traded in the hustle and bustle of London to help renovate a magnificent French manor house on the beautiful island of Jersey with her boyfriend Charlie.
But what they hoped would be a blissful escape to the chateau, turns out to be more of a DIY SOS. As the winter snow sets in, the stress of restoring the derelict building begins to take its toll on their relationship. Portia has known heartbreak before, but thought she’d found her happy-ever-after with Charlie…
Then, just as all seems lost, Portia and Charlie discover the warmth of the community – the best friends anyone could ever ask for. This new life could be everything they want it to be… if only they can finish the chateau in time for its grand reopening!
Portia and Charlie, living in London, decide to renovate Charlie’s inherited chateau on Jersey. Portia sells her flat to fund the renovations, aiming for a shared home. Challenges arise – no heat, damaged windows, and collapsing ceilings. They face the harsh Jersey winter, testing their resolve. The alternating chapters reveal their struggles, friends, and the charm of the Jersey community. Will they overcome obstacles and find happiness away from London? It’s a heartwarming tale of love, challenges, and the allure of a small-town life.
Danielle “Dani” Gilford eagerly accepts her share of the gift of a cottage on the property of the Lilac Lake Inn in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire. Her grandmother, Gigi, has decided to sell the inn after realizing it’s too difficult to run as she ages and with rising taxes. Dani and her two sisters, Whitney and Taylor, must renovate and maintain the cottage and live there at least six months of each year, as a means of helping Gigi keep a vow to hold onto as much of the family property as possible.
The first person that Dani meets when she returns to the lake is Brad Collister, who, with his brother, has been hired to renovate the inn for the new owners. His brother, Aaron, is as attractive as Brad, but life with the brothers is complicated. Brad is still grieving for his wife, who died two years ago from cancer and Aaron’s interest lies with the business. And after working in Boston at an architectural design firm where the men in the office do everything they can to keep her from getting recognition for the work she does, the last thing Dani is looking for is a man. But the little town of Lilac Lake is full of interesting people, and surprises await Dani as she and her sisters work together to keep a promise to their grandmother, and Dani discovers new possibilities for herself about life and love.
Octogenarian Eugenia Wittner, known as GG, faces financial misfortune due to a cheating financial planner. She retains only a deserted caretaker’s cottage and a few acres for her granddaughters, Dani, Whitney, and Taylor. The deal stipulates the cottage must stay occupied, prompting GG to gather her granddaughters for the task. Dani, an accomplished architect, arrives first, followed by Whitney, seeking solace from Hollywood’s paparazzi, and Taylor, their half-sister. Together, they embark on renovating the cottage but encounter a mysterious entity. As the renovation progresses, Dani forms a connection with contractor Brad Collister, navigating his mourning process and facing impediments from his late wife’s family. Dani is also tempted by a job offer in Boston, but her time in Lilac Lake strengthens her resolve to stay. The story, skillfully crafted by the author, weaves relatable characters into a unique narrative with otherworldly elements, setting the stage for an enjoyable series. Highly recommended.
After her divorce, Ruth McCoy is eager to trade her children’s painful memories for new holiday traditions. But Ruth has a whole new set of distractions when fate brings the man she once loved together with the son he never knew he had…
Life has thrown Judd Rankin some tough turns, and he’s startled by the feelings he still has for Ruth. Though the successful rancher knows better than to chase old dreams, he doesn’t mind lending the struggling single mom a hand. And when Judd sees Ruth’s teenaged son’s interest in his custom saddle business, he’s happy to let the boy help him build the harness for Branding Iron’s Christmas sleigh. Besides, the kid reminds Judd of the young man he once was. A man who believed anything was possible…
Powerless to deny the growing bond between her son and Judd, Ruth knows it’s only a matter of time before her secret is discovered. But will the revelation shatter the tender feelings between her and Judd—or turn out to be her family’s greatest gift?
Ruth McCoy, with a tumultuous romantic history, faces the return of Judd Rankin, her former love who spent time in prison for manslaughter. Ruth has two daughters from her failed marriages, and her son, Skip, unknowingly fathered by Judd, works on Judd’s ranch. The narrative unfolds with the tension of hidden paternity and a past filled with wrong choices and regrets. Ruth struggles with revealing the truth to Judd and Skip, haunted by the secrets of their intertwined pasts. As their complex story of young love, redemption, and second chances unfolds, the characters grapple with rebuilding trust and finding happiness amidst their shared history. The looming specter of past choices resurfaces, challenging Ruth and Judd as they navigate their feelings and contemplate a possible happily ever after.
Jocelyn Becker would do anything for her twin sister. Unfortunately, “anything” this time means taking Ilse’s place as host of tv’s Home & Hearth and filming five Christmas-themed episodes at the Victorian inn and shops of Weber Haus. Somehow, Jocelyn will have to convince the world—and her co-host, Ben—that she is Ilse, who can craft, cook, bake, sing, and skate. Jocelyn, however, cannot.
Snowball, the inn’s official greeter, is also having double trouble. The show has its own feline star, a Snowball-lookalike named Angel who’s more of a devil in disguise. Meanwhile, Snowball has noticed enough sparks between Ben and Jocelyn to light up a Christmas tree. But thanks to Jocelyn’s deception and Angel’s antics, this is going to be Snowball’s most challenging match yet.Still, the holidays are made for mistletoe kisses, crackling fires, cozy evenings, and of course, sweet Snowball shenanigans . . .
In the festive ambiance of Weber Haus, this holiday romance unfolds with twin-swap mistaken identity, TV show filming, and the mischievous feline matchmaker, Snowball. Despite initial reservations about the lead characters’ outsider status in the beloved inn, Ben and Jocelyn’s connection and chemistry shine through. The narrative cleverly avoids the pitfalls of a mistaken identity storyline, creating a relationship built on trust. The TV show element, typically not a favorite, surprises and captivates, offering delightful ideas for themed holiday parties. The cat, Snowball, orchestrates a few catjinks, adding humor to the tale. While some nitpicks include a wish for more involvement of the inn’s owners and exploration of Ilse’s character depth, the overall verdict is a heartwarming and adorable holiday read. The book combines comedy, lighthearted drama, and a delightful setting, making it a perfect one-sitting read with a cup of hot cocoa and sugar cookies.
A destination wedding on La Jarra Island for Tillie James’s sister has its drawbacks: hair-wrecking ocean spray and pincher crabs. And its perks: sexy, hotheaded beachfront bartender Gabe Landers, who brings out the competitive streak in fellow drinkslinger Tillie. When the rivals get together for a cocktail-making challenge, the blend is pure bliss, leaving them shaken and stirred.
The spirited blue-eyed tourist from Georgia makes Gabe’s head spin faster than his signature drink, the mermaid sunrise. But he’s determined not to obsess—out-of-towner love stories never last. Tillie agrees. They’ll just enjoy each other for now and make a clean break. No strings. No attachments. No chance. But when Tillie’s kiss goodbye comes with an invitation for Gabe to visit Atlanta, he can’t resist. As fate has it, it’s home to a heartbreaking piece of his own past.
As Tillie and Gabe face new challenges, destiny could tear them apart…or turn an intoxicating romance on the rocks into more than they ever expected.
Tillie James, a bartender on a tropical island for her sister’s wedding, meets local bartender Gabe Landers in a humorous encounter. Their vacation fling evolves into a deeper connection, but living in different countries poses challenges. The story navigates their relatable struggles with separation, family bonds, and personal histories. Tillie and Gabe’s chemistry is depicted as steamy and addictive, leading to a heartwarming resolution despite the obstacles. The narrative strikes a perfect balance of humor, love, real-life issues, and spice, portraying the characters as flawed yet relatable individuals. The friendly bartender competition and subsequent outings add depth to their evolving romance. The story, filled with witty dialogue and three-dimensional characters, explores the couple’s journey of overcoming past baggage for a happier future.
She’s a self-made fitness sensation. He’s a billionaire mogul. They’re sworn enemies and rivals… aren’t they?
Blake Avery knows all about hard work. She’s gone from making videos in her teenage bedroom to founding a booming fitness business and opening a state-of-the-art Manhattan gym. Now she’s on the cusp of realizing her wildest dreams, and she’s not going to let anyone stand in her way.
Certainly not man-of-the-hour Gabriel Mercer. He might be one of the biggest names in the fitness world and set women’s pulses soaring more than a grueling HIIT workout, but he grew up in a billionaire dynasty and had everything handed to him – or so Blake thinks.
But when Blake publicly criticizes Gabriel, she sparks a feud that neither en trepreneur is willing to back down from. And in an industry that seems determined to keep pushing them together, can Blake hold on to her grudge? Or will she finally warm up to Gabriel’s charm?
Blake Avery, deeply committed to health and wellness, attained success through hard work, dedication, exercise videos, social media, and word of mouth. On the flip side, Gabriel Mercer, a billionaire mogul with a keen interest in real estate and money-making, moved from a privileged upbringing to making a mark in the fitness world post-college. When their paths cross, assumptions arise, unveiling hidden facets about each other.
Blake Avery stands out as a captivating figure, while Gabriel, despite some questionable behavior, defends his actions from his own viewpoint. Blake, however, holds him accountable, resulting in a humorous scene that elicited a chuckle – those in the know understand!
This story unfolds as an enemies-to-lovers tale, featuring two people who initially see themselves as complete opposites but ultimately discover surprising commonalities. The business elements introduce a clever and enjoyable layer to the narrative, brimming with humor and just the right amount of sizzle and spice.
In Mistletoe Gardens a legend exists: anyone who kisses underneath the mistletoe will be guaranteed another year of love…
When local baker Essie Browne discovers that Mistletoe Gardens is to be demolished in January, she’s determined to save the place she loves so much. So Essie proposes building a life size gingerbread house to bring in the crowds…just how hard can it be?
Well, quite hard actually. Essie can bake gingerbread blindfolded, but she hasn’t got a clue how to build an actual house with it! She needs help – and fast!
Enter local builder, Joss Hallissey. Essie is convinced that with Joss’s help they can pull this off. There’s just one tiny problem: Joss hates Christmas, gingerbread, and… well, just about everything else too.
Joss the Grinch makes it clear that her idea is ludicrous and pointless, but he reluctantly agrees to help with her plan.
Will the gingerbread house be enough to save Mistletoe Gardens? Or will Essie’s chance for a magical kiss under the mistletoe be lost forever?
In this delightful festive narrative, Essie and Joss embark on the whimsical endeavor of constructing a real-life gingerbread house to safeguard Mistletoe Gardens from potential loss. Despite the lighthearted premise, the imminent threat to Essie’s Welsh village infuses their task with urgency. The sparks between Essie and the initially gruff Joss ignite from the start, yet the author skillfully postpones their romantic involvement, emphasizing the organic growth of their friendship. The mystery surrounding Joss’s reluctance to deepen their connection adds intricate layers to his character.
The essence of Christmas is beautifully captured through festive elements, and the delightful addition of gingerbread facts at the onset of each chapter enhances the seasonal charm. The imaginative plot revolves around constructing a shed-like gingerbread creation, reminiscent of Hansel and Gretel’s witch’s house. As characters jeopardize Mistletoe Gardens, Essie’s steadfast patience and the endearing quirks of the villagers contribute to the story’s overall charm. Essie’s kindness and understanding unravel Joss’s tragic past, revealing the benevolent and compassionate man beneath the surface. The narrative unfolds with endearing characters, such as Mr. Arkins in his dino-suit and the Mystical Magical Magi dispensing magical potions and sage advice. Alongside a charming grand gesture, the novel is enriched with fascinating gingerbread facts and imaginative methods for constructing a large gingerbread house.
In the charming Pacific Northwest town of Clamshell Bay, as the ocean turns from glittering blue to stormy grey, Libby Brown and her three best friends settle around her kitchen table. With a plate of chocolate chip cookies and fresh coffee, Libby lets her tears fall freely as the women listen to her heartbreak.
Libby’s life seems picture-perfect. She lives in her dream home, raising two precious children and supported by her loving husband, Victor. Sure, he’s away a lot with his job, but she has always accepted that he works hard to make their beautiful life possible.
But then, one day, Victor asks for a divorce, and suddenly Libby’s whole world falls apart.
Libby never expected to find herself a single mom, and when she receives a letter from the bank, it’s clear that Victor hasn’t been paying the mortgage. Her husband has been keeping secrets from her, and this isn’t the only one.
Desperate to keep the only home her son and daughter have ever known and protect them from their father’s affair, Libby turns to her three best friends, local baker Cleo, former model Brooke, and painter Megan, for advice and comfort.
Supported by the three women she met in Cleo’s baking class, their friendship forged over sharing bread and secrets, Libby finds the strength to fight for all she holds dear.
As she marches into the bank one morning, she’s surprised to meet manager Jeremy O’Toole. He’s charming and, just like her, has found himself a single parent. He’s been struggling to cope since his wife died, leaving him broken-hearted with two rambunctious kids.
Libby must focus on trying to keep her home, but in trying to remake her life, can she help Jeremy rebuild his? Can two broken hearts heal each other in Clamshell Bay?
Libby, a paediatric nurse and skilled grief counselor, faces the risk of losing her home after her divorce. Struggling to secure employment and facing foreclosure, she unexpectedly meets Jeremy O’Toole, a compassionate bank manager. Their lives intertwine when Jeremy seeks Libby’s medical help for his sick twin daughters. The story unfolds from both Libby and Jeremy’s perspectives, allowing readers to delve into their thoughts and witness their growth and courage. Amidst the challenges, a theme of friendship from the Clamshell Cove series emerges, showcasing the supportive bond among characters like Cleo, Megan, and Brooke. The novel captivates with its wonderful flow, encouraging readers to stay engaged. Emotional depth, genuine friendships, and valuable connections create a moving and motivating experience. “The Cottage at Clamshell Bay” stands out as a heartwarming story that brightens the day and charms the heart, leaving a lasting impression of inspiration.
Lottie Daniels is dancing up the altar in Canada when she realises her whirlwind wedding is a big mistake. Chad isn’t the right person for her at all! And, in that moment, Lottie goes from dancing bride to runaway bride.
Much to her brother’s relief, Lottie decides to return to Bramblewood in the UK. But life has more surprises in store for her. After rescuing both a donkey and a little old lady called Doris – all with the help of a handsome stranger! – Lottie suddenly becomes a big part of Doris’s life.
From broken dreams to second chances, Lottie finally has a chance to rebuild her life. When her friends suggest she takes part in a dance audition she refuses point blank but it soon becomes clear that destiny has other plans.
This book unfolds as a delightful and heartwarming tale leading up to Lottie’s impending wedding. Annette Hannah’s storytelling is entertaining, engaging, humorous, and romantic, showcasing her clear voice in the genre. The book emanates a warm sense of community, emphasizing loyalty and friendship, offering uplifting moments in a sometimes challenging world. Readers, whether familiar with Hannah’s previous works or not, can seamlessly enjoy this narrative. The diverse age range of characters, including vibrant older figures like Doris, challenges stereotypes and proves that romance is not confined to a particular age group.
The story is enriched by references to food, taste, and dance, with the vivid descriptions evoking strong sensory experiences. Despite occasional moments of tension, the overall narrative provides a respite and escapism, offering sheer enjoyment. Lottie’s character, who leaves her fiancé at the altar, quickly becomes endearing, and readers root for her happiness. The sparks between Lottie and an undisclosed character add a sizzling element to the story. Annette Hannah crafts a sumptuous and heartwarming novel, seamlessly weaving characters from previous works into a community that feels inviting and familiar. “Lottie’s School of Dance” is not just a book; it’s a gorgeous and engrossing experience.
What if you could have one more day with someone you lost?
Diana Merriman, a physical therapist, is probably the only person in the small town of Snow Haven, North Carolina, who isn’t looking forward to Christmas. It’s been three weeks since her fiancé Linus was critically injured when a car hit him as he biked home from the toy store he owns and manages. Watching him open his eyes is the only gift she wants, but she can’t help losing a little more hope every day.
But an unexpected visit from a friendly neighbor and finding a snow globe of Snow Haven—a gift Linus had hidden in the closet—the night before Christmas Eve changes things in ways Diana never would have imagined. Because on Christmas Eve Diana wakes up to find that it’s not—Christmas Eve, that is. Instead, it’s somehow December 4 all over again, the day Linus got hurt, and as mystified as Diana is, she immediately starts a plan to save her partner from his fate.
Nothing is that simple, of course. Instead of a single repeat of that day, Diana finds herself in an endless loop of December 4, experiencing every possible variation of events. Along the way, she uncovers startling truths about herself, her relationship, and even her career that illustrate the ways she’s retreated from her life—and in the face of life’s slights and outright blows, from her deepest feelings. Suddenly hope is second only to joy as Diana opens her heart to the people she loves in every way she can.
Diana faces a somber Christmas as her fiance, Linus, is in a coma after a car accident with an uncertain recovery. Devastated, she stumbles upon a magical snow globe hidden in Linus’s wardrobe. Unknowingly triggering its magic, Diana finds herself trapped in a loop, reliving the day of Linus’s accident. Driven to prevent his harm, she questions whether the repetition is merely to save him or if there’s a deeper lesson to be learned. The book beautifully weaves important Christmas themes—love, forgiveness, family, work-life balance, and more—into the emotional narrative. Despite the overall sadness and heartbreak, the story unfolds as a love tale, not only for Linus but also for Diana herself. The journey is incredibly emotional, evoking tears, yet it culminates in a breathtaking and beautiful ending—a hard-fought but ultimately satisfying romance.
My Sanctuary 