Category Archives: Review card

Review Card & Book Review – Secret Beneath A Riviera Sky By Jennifer Bohnet

As one door closes, another one opens…

When Agnes Agistini receives a phone call from Theo, her brother-in-law informing her that her estranged, abusive husband Oscar has died in an accident, she feels nothing but relief. But that relief is short-lived as Oscar’s vengeance from an early grave forces Agnes to return to the place she fled from over forty years ago. A place and time she’s not keen to revisit.

At the request of a French notaires dealing with Oscar’s last will, Agnes travels to Cannes in the South of France alongside their daughter Francine and her grand-daughter Jasmine.

Agnes knows that going back will inevitably drag up deep, dark memories which she is yet to reconcile, but what choice does she have?
What she wasn’t prepared for are the family secrets that will come to light, or the cruel way in which Oscar treats her right until the bitter end.

As always Theo remains by her side, helping to navigate the myriad of bombshells Oscar leaves in his wake. But as wonderful memories begin to resurface Agnes begins to wonder if she can finally make peace with the past and find an everlasting happiness?

About The Author

My Review

Secrets Beneath a Riviera Sky is a heartwarming novel that delves into family bonds, resilience, and the impact of the past, all set against the picturesque backdrop of the French Riviera. The story follows three generations of women—Agnes, Francine, and Jasmine—as they embark on a journey to uncover long-buried family secrets, forcing them to confront past wounds and redefine their relationships with one another.While the Riviera setting adds charm to the story, it could have been more vividly described to fully immerse the reader in its atmosphere. Additionally, while the book successfully explores emotional depth, certain moments could have been given more weight to heighten their impact. Overall, Secrets Beneath a Riviera Sky is a compelling and fast-paced novel that will resonate with fans of contemporary women’s fiction and multi-generational family dramas. It offers a touching exploration of rediscovering the past, healing old wounds, and embracing the hope that comes with new beginnings.

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Review Card & Book Review – How To Fix A Broken Heart By Nicola May

Gracie Davies is at an all-time low. After a devastating loss, the last thing she needs is a colleague hinting over coffee that it’s time to lose her baby weight. Then her boyfriend betrays her, and her world totally falls apart.

Rebuilding her life from scratch – with the support of her free-spirited sister, an unorthodox therapist, and a feisty new friend – Gracie finally begins to get her mojo back. Add in a passionate fling with handsome landscaper Ed, a fairytale encounter with a Hollywood film star and the persistence of her adulterous ex, and life is anything but predictable…

Soon she finds that community, purpose, and perhaps even new love might be the perfect prescription for a broken heart.

But can a heart that’s been so utterly shattered ever trust again?

About The Author

My Review

This is a heartfelt and uplifting novel about Gracie’s journey to heal after a devastating miscarriage, betrayal, and the loss of her dreams of motherhood. After losing twins halfway through her pregnancy and undergoing an emergency hysterectomy, Gracie is consumed by grief. Her pain deepens when she discovers her partner, Lewis, has been unfaithful. Determined to reclaim her life, she leaves him and embarks on a journey of self-discovery and renewal.

As Gracie navigates her new reality, she throws herself into building a business, forming new friendships, and even exploring romantic possibilities. While none of her love interests feel like the perfect match, her most meaningful relationships are with those who truly support her, especially her sister. Their bond is one of the highlights of the novel, offering warmth and humor amid the heavier themes.

Despite its serious subject matter, the book maintains a light and hopeful tone, making it an engaging and relatable read for anyone who has faced loss, heartbreak, or unexpected life changes. While some subplots involving minor characters may feel less compelling, the core of the story—Gracie’s resilience and personal growth—shines through. This novel is a touching exploration of rebuilding after tragedy, proving that even after the darkest times, happiness and new beginnings are possible.

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Review Card & Book Review – Catch A Falling Star By Laura Carter

📸 Wedding photographer Lyra Clarkson has built a career capturing other people’s perfect moments. She loves her job – despite her family’s disapproval – but she’s never quite found her own path.

🎸 Wedding singer Guy Walker, former rock star, has hit a new low. Desperately needing cash, he’s agreed to take any gig his manager can get him, even if this new form of entertainment isn’t just singing.

As Lyra and Guy’s paths cross – in the most bizarre way possible – an unexpected kiss will change everything. But was it simply a chance encounter or is fate bringing them back together?

Now forced into each other’s lives for the entire wedding season, the unlikely pair may just figure out together how to realise both their dreams…

About The Author

My Review

Catch a Falling Star by Laura Carter is a charming and emotional second-chance romance that combines humor, heartfelt moments, and irresistible chemistry.

The story centers on Lyra Clarkson, a passionate wedding photographer who thrives on capturing others’ happiness, even though her family questions her career and she’s still searching for love herself. Her world shifts when she crosses paths with Guy Walker, a former rock star whose career has fizzled, leaving him singing at weddings to make ends meet. Their unexpected reunion leads to a spontaneous kiss, reigniting old feelings and forcing them to confront unresolved emotions from their past.

Thrown together during a bustling wedding season, Lyra and Guy’s banter, shared history, and undeniable attraction make for a rollercoaster of awkward run-ins, laugh-out-loud encounters, and tender reconnections. Beneath the lighthearted moments lies a deeper exploration of forgiveness, growth, and rediscovering what truly matters.

Laura Carter’s witty and engaging storytelling makes the romance feel authentic while weaving in themes of friendship and family. With its lively characters, musical flair, and heartwarming second-chance love, this novel is a delightful treat for romcom fans.

My Rating

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Review Card & Book Review – Meet Me Under The Clock By Jo Lovett

Sometimes love happens when you least expect it…

When Nadia and Tom are both unceremoniously stood up by their dates under the clock at Waterloo Station, fate throws them together in the most unusual of circumstances.

What starts as a brilliant story for future dinner parties soon turns into a wonderful friendship, and both Tom and Nadia realise they’ve found the perfect partner in crime.

Tired of dating but always needing a plus one for weddings, parties, and the like, they agree to fake date each other. But as their pretend relationship starts to feel more real, Nadia and Tom begin to wonder if there’s more to their connection than convenience.

Could the relationship they’ve been faking be the one they’ve been waiting for all along?

About The Author

My Review

Meet Me Under the Clock follows two strangers, Nadia and Tom, who meet at a train station after both being stood up by their dates. To avoid further romantic disappointments, they agree to a fake dating arrangement. What follows is a slow-burn romance where they spend time getting to know each other.

While the premise is charming, the story leans heavily on dialogue, which may not appeal to all readers. Much of Nadia and Tom’s conversations revolve around small talk and indecisiveness, making their interactions feel somewhat repetitive. Their personalities and perspectives are quite similar, which at times makes it difficult to differentiate between them. Additionally, the overly polite nature of their exchanges, as well as those of the supporting characters, results in conversations that feel a bit restrained.

The writing style focuses more on telling rather than showing, which, combined with the dialogue-heavy approach, may not provide as much immersion as some readers prefer. While the story has a heartfelt and sweet tone, the reserved nature of the characters and their interactions may make it a slower read for those looking for more dynamic exchanges.

My Rating

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Review Card & Book Review – Wish You Were Here By Alex Brown

Deedee Merriman loves her job running a travel agency but with turnover down and a big birthday fast approaching she’s thinking about the next chapter of her life and the changes she wants to make.

Determined to stay vibrant and keep a youthful outlook on life she invites her friends, Gina and Rosie to celebrate with her in New York, one of her favourite places and where she feels closest to her late husband, Joe.

On arrival, there’s a surprise, secret gift in store for Deedee of a small, ramshackle beach house in the beautiful Hamptons where Joe spent his childhood. But the house isn’t the only secret and discovering the truth will change everything….

About The Author

My Review

This is a heartwarming novel about grief, friendship, and self-discovery. It follows DeeDee, a widow approaching her 70th birthday, who feels lonely and uncertain about the future. To mark the milestone, she travels to New York City with her friends Rosie and Gina, reconnecting with her NYC-based circle.

The story explores how friendships can become chosen family, the process of healing after loss, and the courage it takes to embrace change. While DeeDee is portrayed as youthful and adventurous, some aspects—like her fluency in modern slang—feel unrealistic for her age. Additionally, the newer friendship between the three women could have been more developed to feel as authentic as DeeDee’s longstanding New York connections.

Though somewhat predictable, the novel is a fun and uplifting read, capturing the excitement of NYC and the importance of living fully at any stage of life.

My Rating

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Review Card & Book Review – The Forgotten Book Club By Kate Storey

Life can begin with a single story. You just have to Bring Your Own Book…

For three decades, Grace supported her husband Frank’s passion for books, despite not being a reader herself. Since his passing, their shelves echo longingly, and Grace’s heartache has only grown.

When Grace’s grandson suggests joining Frank’s old book club to feel closer to him again, Grace reluctantly agrees. Yet, upon arrival, she discovers this isn’t a typical book club: here, members settle in for an hour of reading… in silence.

Disappointed by the sparse attendance and confused by the lack of chatter, Grace flees. But when fellow member, Annie, convinces her to stay, Grace is determined to ensure that neither Frank – nor his beloved book club – are forgotten.

And as she breathes new life into the group, Grace might just find this is where she truly belongs. Because this next chapter of life could just be the beginning of her story…

About The Author

My Review

This is a heartfelt story about human connection, community, and self-discovery. At its core, the novel explores themes of friendship, overcoming loneliness, processing grief, and raising awareness about ADHD. The book club at the heart of the story is unlike any other—offering not just a love for books but a space for healing, purpose, and support.

Grace, the protagonist, struggles with grief after losing her husband, Frank. Though never a big reader herself, she finds solace in the book club he loved so much. Initially unsure of its unconventional format, she gradually embraces its unique approach and discovers the impact Frank had on others. As she learns more about his passion, she finds new purpose in continuing his legacy—expanding the club’s reach and incorporating ADHD awareness.

With beautiful reflections on friendship, literature, and mental health, this novel is a touching journey of healing and personal growth.

My Rating

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Review Card & Book Review- Don’t Believe A Word By Susan Lewis

Here!

They raised her. Nurtured her. And lied about everything.

They told Sadie she was adopted.

They gave her a home and showered her with love.

But they lied.

Sadie was stolen.

They say Sadie’s making it all up.

But you shouldn’t believe a word…

About The Author

My Review

This gripping follow-up to Nothing to See Here continues the journey of Christy and Connor’s true-crime podcast, Hindsight. While spending Christmas in Guernsey with her family, Christy is approached by Sophie, a friend of Anna’s, who seeks help uncovering a long-buried mystery. After finding a story written by her late aunt, Sophie learns that she was discovered as a two-year-old, abandoned on a beach. Determined to uncover the truth about her past, she turns to Christy for answers.

Susan Lewis masterfully weaves suspense, emotional depth, and social commentary, particularly on the realities of human trafficking and how first impressions can be deceiving. While the main storyline is compelling, the subplot involving Christy’s digital stalker feels underdeveloped, hinting at a future continuation. Fans of the Hindsight team will enjoy reconnecting with familiar characters in this unputdownable read, and anticipation remains high for the next installment.

My Rating

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Review Card & Book Review – Hooked on You by Ada Barumé

This job is about to hook, line and sink her…

Ore has (almost) landed her dream job as an investigative reporter for the New Yorker. There’s only one catch – they’ll only give her the job if she can get the scoop on working for the elusive billionaire Harrison Marigold. To write the article, she’s got to spend two weeks on his luxury yacht off the coast of Australia, and convince the crew to spill the beans.

Daniel has (almost) landed his dream job as captain of a super yacht down under. There’s only one catch – he has to take one last job, chartering a yacht for an eccentric billionaire, and making sure an unfairly beautiful journalist doesn’t distract his crew from their work.

But making sure Ore doesn’t sink his chances of staying on course by sea-ducing his crew turns into a much harder job than Daniel expected. Ore’s also finding her assignment more difficult than she ever thought, thanks to the crew’s loyalty to Captain Daniel, but also, the waves of attraction towards him that keep crashing over her.

About The Author

My Review

This is a captivating blend of romance and mystery set aboard a luxurious yacht. Ore, a determined journalist, is on the verge of landing her dream job at The New Yorker—but first, she must write a profile on a powerful CEO. To do so, she embarks on his yacht, intending to interview the crew and guests. However, as she digs deeper, she realizes something is off about the CEO and his associates, turning what was supposed to be a simple profile into a much more dangerous investigation.

At the heart of the story is Ore’s unexpected connection with Daniel, the yacht’s captain, who has always lived by careful planning—until she disrupts his world. Their romance is built on more than just attraction; they share values and mutual respect, making their relationship feel organic and refreshing. While some side characters, like Carlos, the yacht’s chef, add charm, others, like Claude, feel underdeveloped.

With its mix of suspense, glamour, and romance, Hooked on You is an engaging summer read, perfect for those who enjoy high-stakes drama with a dash of love.

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Review Card & Book Review- Too Hot To Handle By Portia MacIntosh

One bachelorette party. One stag do. One double-booked villa and only one way to decide who gets it: a competition.

Workaholic Molly is buzzing when her best friend tells her she’s getting married. As maid of honour Molly can’t wait for the perfect bachelorette party in Spain. What could be better than a week in a stunning villa? Sun, sea, cocktails and gossiping – and best of all, no boys allowed. But when the hens arrive they discover that they are not alone. The villa has been accidentally double booked by a group of stags who make it very clear they’re not leaving!

It’s a disaster, and no one wants to give up their place in paradise. Attempts at compromising fail instantly, so their only option is to have a winner takes all competition. Battle lines are drawn and it is girls v boys – but will the competition be too hot to handle?

As their rivalry heats up, and Molly finds herself gravitating towards stag Travis, it’s clear that he’s enjoying the attention – but Molly can’t let herself get distracted, and under no circumstances can she fall for the enemy.

About The Author

My Review

This is a laugh-out-loud romantic comedy about Molly, who, after being dumped by her longtime boyfriend, joins her best friend Lou’s hen do in Spain. Upon arriving at their luxury villa, the group discovers it has been double-booked with three guys, including the charming Travis. Instead of leaving, both groups agree to compete in games, with the losers forced to vacate. Initially skeptical of the childish arrangement, Molly goes along for Lou’s sake, all while unexpectedly falling for one of the guys.Filled with humor, playful banter, and entertaining challenges, the book captures the fun and chaos of an unexpected vacation romance. The ending delivers a sweet and satisfying conclusion, reminiscent of classic ’80s rom-coms.

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Review Card & Book Review – Some Like It Scot By Pepper Basham

Popular travel writer and podcaster Katie Campbell roams the world collecting other people’s stories. She’s built a career as “Miss Adventure,” known for saying yes to anything new–country, food, or experience–and predictably finding those adventures taking a downward turn into misadventures.

Offered the chance to explore her ancestral roots through a three-week Edwardian experience, Katie finds herself immersed in the beauty and eccentricity of Scotland. In her period attire, with traditional foods and activities, the opportunities for misadventures are endless, especially with the presence of a maniacal macaw, a jealous co-worker, and an all-too-surly Scotsman.

Reclusive and protective Graeme MacKerrow doesn’t venture far from his island home. A stoic Scotsman, Graeme’s comfort zone has always been family, and after his sister’s death, he’s even more determined to save the MacKerrow ancestral home and keep those he loves close. The sudden intrusion of a six-foot-one American lass, famous for her traveling misfortunes, was far from his plan.

As this world of folklore, community, and woodworkers-in-kilts tempts Katie to discover her own story, could this one grand series of misadventures lead her directly to where she belongs? And would a settled-in-Scot ever risk loosening his grip on what’s familiar to allow a wanderlust writer a home in his heart? How could their very different worlds share the same page of life’s story when “home” is in two very different places? But maybe home–and the future–isn’t quite what either one imagined it would be. Maybe home is less about a place . . . and more about a person.

About The Author

My Review

This is a heartwarming romance that beautifully ties humor, faith, and belonging into Katie Campbell’s journey. Katie, a travel writer prone to comical mishaps, heads to the Isle of Mull on assignment, only to discover more than just a story. The island’s breathtaking beauty, rich heritage, and warm community remind her of the love she once shared with her Scottish grandparents, stirring a longing for roots and home.

Her path takes a meaningful turn when she meets Graeme MacKerrow, a charming local who sees beyond her wandering spirit. Their connection grows through shared moments and conversations that nudge Katie toward self-acceptance and the possibility of staying rather than running. Basham’s storytelling blends Katie’s laugh-out-loud adventures with her deeper struggles to embrace her identity, weaving in themes of faith, family, and body positivity in a way that feels natural to the narrative.

Brimming with Scottish charm and heartfelt romance, it is a cozy, uplifting tale about finding love, rediscovering heritage, and choosing where the heart truly belongs.

My Rating

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