Review card – Page 103

Review Card & Book Review – High Tides and Summer Skies By Jennifer Bohnet

As time ebbs and flows over the summer both Katie Teague and her godmother Mattie Cranford discover their lives are at a crossroads

Mattie shackled to the family wool shop for over 50 years, feels life has passed her by. She dreams of seeing the world and shaking off a lifetime of regrets.

When Katie is made redundant, Mattie seizes the moment and asks Katie to move back to her home town of Dartmouth and breathe new life into the rundown wool shop and to her surprise Katie agrees.

As Katie settles back into the rhythm of Devon life and renovating the shop, Mattie sets off on a luxury cruise.

But the arrival of Katie’s ex-boyfriend with an unexpected dream job offer threatens to unsettle the calm waters.

Will she sacrifice the shop and Mattie’s happiness – or her own career?

About The Author

My Review

This captivating multigenerational escape takes readers on an emotional rollercoaster filled with heartbreak, romance, family, and secrets. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Dartmouth, Devon, and a Mediterranean cruise, the story unfolds with Mattie and Henri, providing a holiday feel through Jennifer’s evocative writing. Mattie, still haunted by her sister Clara’s wartime loss, navigates a journey of love and healing, with historical elements like Operation Tiger adding depth. The author’s meticulous research shines, avoiding common pitfalls. The engaging plot, including a surprising twist and a delightful epilogue, kept me glued to the pages.

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Review Card & Book Review – The Wrong Man By Amanda Brookfield

While many regard her marriage with admiration and a touch of envy, Jane Lytton quietly reaches the shocking conclusion that her relationship with Michael, a successful banker with little time for her – or the nitty-gritty of family life – is failing.

Even daring to contemplate leaving Michael is daunting. With no obvious outward signs of any marital problems, family and friends greet news of the predicament with a mixture of anger and uncomprehending sympathy.

Forced to accept that she is alone, Jane takes drastic steps that veer her life off course. When at last her vision clears to reveal the best chance of happiness, it looks as if she may have left it too late. Being with the wrong man does not make finding the ‘right’ one any easier.

About The Author

My Review

Jane Lytton recognizes her failing marriage with successful but neglectful banker husband Michael. Contemplating leaving him, she faces insensitivity from family and friends who see no apparent signs of trouble. Unexpected sympathy and strength emerge from an unlikely source. Amanda Brookfield’s distinct descriptive style and authentic character portrayal shine in this emotionally charged exploration of marriage’s impact on relationships, family, and friends. The narrative unfolds with compelling twists, maintaining reader interest until the final page. This book provides a detailed glimpse into the complexities of marriage and its aftermath.

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Review Card & Book Review – The Widows’ Wine Club By Julia Jarman

The beginning of Janet, Viv and Zelda’s friendship could not have been less promising…

Navigating their new lives as widows, the three women venture to the same dreary bereavement group in a chilly church hall. But what bonds them is not their shared predicament, but instead how quickly they all decide to flee the depressing gathering, choosing instead to share a bottle of wine. The Three Muscat-eers is born.

The women may be down but they’re not out; in their sixties but certainly not past it. They agree a mission: to find fulfilment as single women and recover their joie de vivre. And as they start to feel ready to face the world again, the friends support each other to dive headlong into new hobbies, new adventures, and even to dip their toes into the wonderful world of dating again.

When one of the ladies gets life-changing news, there’s only one thing for it. The Widows’ Wine Club closes rank, and it’s ‘one for all and all for one’. Because when they stick together, there’s nothing the friends can’t achieve.

About The Author

My Review

In this heartwarming tale, three widowed women in their sixties forge a lively friendship after meeting at a local church group for widows. Disenchanted with the group’s monotony, Viv, Janet, and Zelda decide to create their own adventures, leading to the blossoming of a strong bond. As they navigate life’s challenges together, the camaraderie between these women shines through, offering a sense of support even in difficult times. The book captures the essence of friendship, portraying the uplifting moments, humor, and the importance of friends who provide different perspectives. Amidst life’s trials, the story emphasizes the significance of finding joy, hope, and laughter. With its spirit-lifting narrative, the book stands out as a celebration of life, love, and the enduring power of friendship, offering readers an enjoyable and optimistic experience.

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Review Card & Book Review – Mr Cocky By Leslie North

I lie down for just a second…

The next thing I see is the chiseled and extremely grumpy face of my billionaire client, Theo Barnes, looking down at me. If I’m Goldilocks, he has all the grouchiness of three bears. I was overworked and overstressed juggling photographing his fleet of yachts with my other projects. Add in a super comfy bed on one of his yachts and I’m out.

Now I’m about to be fired. Except, we’re in the middle of the ocean and he’s looking at me like I’m the missing piece of a puzzle. Instead of getting the axe, he offers me an insane amount of money for a single day of work—an amount it’s really, really hard to say no to. But I should have. Because this bosshole wants me to be his pretend girlfriend for the afternoon.

The rules: no PDA, don’t get cornered by his mother and the deal is done once we dock. That first rule lasted about four minutes. This pretend girlfriend thing was supposed to be a one-and-done gig, but now his mother insists he bring a “nice” girl to a family wedding.

And Theo thought of me. A “nice” girl would have said no, but here I am, stuck with Mr. Cocky. It’s not all bad. There are those rule-breaking kisses. And the scorching sex. But sex has consequences And Goldilocks has a surprise for her grumpy bear.

About The Author

My Review

This book is a charming romantic tale about Maxine and Theo, who initially enter into a platonic agreement but find themselves drawn into a passionate relationship. Despite resisting a deeper connection due to insecurities, external voices insist they are meant to be together. The plot, while occasionally predictable, incorporates enough surprises and twists to maintain reader engagement. The pacing is generally well-handled, though the ending feels rushed at times. Secondary characters, particularly Theo’s mother, add depth to the narrative. Leslie North’s engaging writing style and vivid descriptions bring the story’s settings to life. Overall, “Mr. Cocky” is an enjoyable romantic adventure with well-developed characters, palpable chemistry, and a mix of humor and passion, making it a recommended read for those seeking a lighthearted yet steamy story.

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Review Card & Book Review – The Christmas Fayre on Holly Field By Lilac Mills

Foxmore’s inaugural Christmas fayre will be the toast of the town – or the downfall of their relationship…

Harriet is facing her second Christmas on her own since her husband walked out. With little child support, she’s struggling to manage financially.

When Owen, a passionate environmentalist and popular blogger, overhears Harriet bemoaning her situation, he challenges her to only buy second-hand until Christmas. What she doesn’t know is that Owen is reporting her journey anonymously to all his followers…

Though the challenge is proving successful, it’s not without its troubles. Can Harriet really keep her children and bank balance happy this way? How will she react when she finds her life documented online?

About The Author

My Review

In this delightful Christmas romance, a struggling single mom encounters a charismatic advocate against consumerism during the holiday season. The story explores whether his eco-friendly stance can save her money or lead to unforeseen challenges with reused items. As the second book in the series, it maintains the charm of the first, introducing creative characters and a well-written plot that strikes a balance between realism and romance. With a clean narrative and a low spice level, it’s an ideal festive read. The quirky small-town setting, relatable characters, and engaging storyline weave together familiar holiday tropes. The writing is cozy, propelling readers toward a predictable yet eagerly anticipated happy ending, while the eco-friendly theme adds a unique touch without being preachy.

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Review Card & Book Review – My Billionaire Rancher: Secret Lover By Lavender Skye

A broken engagement, a return trip home, a desperate search for a new job, and an unexpected shot at forbidden romance. How did I get here?!

My life was going perfectly. I had a hot fiancé, a perfect wedding planned, and my whole career ahead of me. My happy-ever-after was just around the corner…

Life was great until I found out that my fiancé was cheating on me. I lost my job and had to return home to Denver, feeling more defeated than ever. When my dad hooked me up with a great opportunity on his best friend’s ranch, I had to take the chance to get my life back on track.

Then I met my new boss: Theodore Woods, Billionaire Rancher. Gruff, demanding… and deliciously handsome.

Also. My dad’s. Best. Friend.

I guess, after Colin, I’m looking for a real man—one who will respect me, take care of me, and treasure me. And the heat I’ve caught in Theodore’s eyes sparks those tummy flutters all over again.

For the first time in a long time, I’m feeling hopeful. But what will my parents say? Won’t they freak out? Is Theodore worth the risk?

About The Author

My Review

Amelia, reeling from a painful breakup, returns to Denver seeking a fresh start. Desperate for a job, her father arranges for her to work on a horse ranch owned by his best friend, Colin. Initially a grumpy rancher, Colin’s demeanor changes in Amelia’s presence. Despite being labeled as a billionaire romance, the story focuses more on an age-gap and grumpy/sunshine dynamic with a quick, steamy resolution. The title may mislead readers expecting opulent lifestyle depictions typical of billionaire romances. The age-gap theme, with the protagonist at 24, is subtly overshadowed by parental influence, sometimes veering towards an underage dynamic. While the novella delivers standard love scenes, the erotica aspect unfolds gradually, with the spice level being moderate. A quick, steamy read with a happily-ever-after, but not strictly adhering to traditional billionaire romance tropes.

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Review Card & Book Review – Stuck With You By Aimee Brown

Jade Monroe has finally found the man of her dreams.

Or has she? Despite them being newly engaged, her fiancé Conner has suddenly gone radio silent. And even though her family are all giving her the same advice, (he’s just not that into you) she’s not convinced.

River Matthews has always been his authentic self, without apologies. Honest to a fault, light-hearted and a little lonely. Currently he’s the last single standing in his group of friends and he’s starting to feel his clock ticking. He’s got close to happily-ever-after before, but now it’s once-bitten-twice-shy, and the only way he’s going to find love is if he takes a chance.

The wisdom goes that if you just stop looking, your perfect partner will appear, but who will be there when Jade and River stop searching for ‘the one’?

About The Author

My Review

In this charming tale, Jade gets the proposal of her dreams but starts questioning her relationship when her fiancé overlooks key details. Working at a bar, she encounters River, who senses the truth about her fiancé. As Jade navigates past trauma and vulnerability, River strives to show her genuine love. While some label it a love triangle, Conner’s detachment makes it more about Jade’s journey. The story beautifully explores Jade’s growth and River’s efforts to reveal her worth. Despite Jade’s frustrating stubbornness, her loyalty adds depth. The narrative, not rushing to a happily-ever-after, unfolds into a sweet romance. The book invites readers to reflect on the nature of true love and self-discovery, making it a lovely, heartwarming read with characters destined for each other.

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Review Card & Book Review – Another Time, Another Place By Jo Lovett

The best people in life are worth the wait…

When Liv finds herself locked in a shed with handsome stranger Ben (after they try to rescue a cat together), the instant connection they make feels like fate had a hand in it. Has Liv finally found her perfect match?

But everything about the timing means there’s no way they can be together. Not least because Ben has a girlfriend and Liv is moving from London to Paris the next day.

Over the coming years their paths weave in and out of each other’s lives – together, but always fleetingly.

If only they could stop missing each other, who knows what fate may have in store for them…

About The Author

My Review

In this captivating love story, Liv and Ben’s initial encounter in an abandoned building sparks instant attraction, but life’s timing complicates their connection. Fate continues to intertwine their paths over eight years, leading to a series of encounters and missed opportunities. Finally acting on their feelings during wedding celebrations, Ben confesses his love, only to disappear abruptly. Liv, determined to find closure, faces the challenge of unraveling Ben’s mysterious secrets. As Liv grows into a confident woman, the slow-burning chemistry between them becomes palpable. Despite frustrating misunderstandings, the story explores the resilience of love at first sight. With compelling characters and a hidden secret, this novel is a must-read for those who believe in fate and enduring connections.

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Review Card & Book Review – The Gingerbread Christmas Village By Kiley Dunbar

Everyone deserves a Christmas treat…

The annual Wheaton gingerbread exhibit (a model village made of gingerbread) and grotto has been an important part of the sleepy Cotswold hamlet’s Christmas celebrations for decades.

For years the gingerbread exhibition drew visitors from across the region and each year the model town grew more elaborate and ambitious but recently, interest has been dwindling. The gingerbread grotto needs to be rehomed or close forever.

Sixty-four-year-old Margi, the event’s founder, has had enough of village life (and its total lack of eligible men) and is planning to sell up and head to Birmingham to live closer to her niece.

She has lost her spark and her Christmas spirit and decides this will be her last gingerbread village, but despairs when she finds her only support is her old friend, Izzy, her niece Lucy from Birmingham, and Fern, the shy young farmer’s daughter. Oh, and Patrick, the gorgeous, reliable school caretaker.

As if this wasn’t enough, Lucy is determined to get her out dating again and persuades her to try some online dating apps but Margi’s had her heart broken too many times and wonders if she has just missed her chance.

Can they save the Gingerbread Grotto and can Margi get her old spark and her Christmas spirit back?

About The Author

My Review

This book weaves a delightful tapestry of genres, blending holiday charm with themes of friendship, loss, family, and personal growth. Set in the quaint hamlet of Wheaton, the story revolves around sixty-four-year-old Margi, organizing the fading Wheaton Gingerbread Grotto exhibition. Facing challenges like competition from a neighboring light extravaganza and a dilapidated town hall, Margi, along with her diverse team, navigates personal struggles. The narrative explores emotions tied to breakups, lost love, and self-discovery. Despite Margi’s mature perspective, the story remains multi-generational, emphasizing the timeless nature of personalities and loves. With a heartwarming touch, the novel imparts uplifting messages about living authentically, disregarding societal expectations, and fostering community spirit. A Christmas romcom that not only fulfills expectations but surpasses them, leaving readers with a warm, soulful smile.

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Review Card & Book Review – The Love Department By Ally Bunbury

The countdown to Christmas is on at Shillington’s luxury department store in Dublin city …

Immy Brooks has just been put in charge of personal shopping and seems to have a gift for knowing exactly what people want. The one person whose mind she can’t read is her best friend (and soon-to-be boss), Lando Shillington. The night before he leaves for Paris, the two share a drunken night of passion – but Immy hasn’t seen or heard from him since …

Lando can’t get Immy out of his head but he is under pressure to save the family business and he’s in Paris to learn the ropes from the retail magnate, Charles de Croix. Radical changes are needed if Shillington’s is to return to its former glory. But Lando hadn’t banked on getting on quite so well with Charles’ daughter, the glamorous and eminently dateable Celine.

Christmas is in the air when Lando returns to Dublin with Celine and de Croix, both determined to give Shillington’s a Parisian makeover, but does their arrival spell the end for Immy and Lando, before they even get started?

About The Author

My Review

Immy Brooks and Lando Shillington, childhood friends turned passionate lovers, face an uncomfortable shift in their relationship on the eve of Lando’s business trip to Paris. Lando, reluctant heir to his family’s Dublin department store, seeks guidance from Charles de Croix, owner of the opulent Le Marché Cher in Paris. Lando’s interactions with Immy become strained as he grapples with newfound responsibilities and a potential romance with de Croix’s daughter, Celine. When de Croix decides to help revitalize Shillington’s, the Dublin store, Lando, Delia (his mother), and Immy navigate a world of wealth, love, and business transformation. The Love Department unfolds with extravagance and ostentation, providing a festive escape into a realm of opulence, while addressing universal themes of love, friendship, grief, and the pursuit of happiness.

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