What’s more to say about my blog about books I’ve read?
Well, this is my blog about books I’ve read 😀.
I always liked reading books, and it all started on a very silly way… It’s always good to blame my dad, so he is the cause of my reading addiction.
When I was still a little girl, a looooooong time ago, I saw him always going to the bathroom with the newspaper. One day I wondered why he did that, so I took a book and tried to see the fun of that.
And since that day, you can find everywhere in the house a book of mine.
A while ago, I had the opportunity to review some books, and now a new opportunity came to post them on an own blog.
So here we are, my own blog!
I read books, and I will post my thoughts about them.
Some books I’ll like, some I won’t like that much…. but you can be sure that I’ll give you my personal and honest opinion about them.
In Regency Cornwall, governess Miss Wilkins has always survived by being sensible, capable, and self-reliant. When she dares to take a bold step toward independence, she has no intention of complicating her life—or her heart.
Her encounters with James Pentarrant, the steadfast captain of the Delabole slate quarry, are marked less by romance than by spirited disagreement. Self-contained and disciplined, James challenges her views at every turn, even as he respects her resolve. What begins as wary sparring and mutual resistance gradually deepens into an understanding neither expected nor sought.
Alongside their unfolding story, a young heiress newly returned to Cornwall hides a calling that defies convention. When a moment of danger on the moor—and the inevitable gossip that follows—forces her into an unintended engagement, assumptions harden and emotions become dangerously entangled. Her growing affection for her own sparring partner, a gentle country doctor with the manners of a true gentleman and a secret of his own, only further unsettles what society is determined to set in place.
Set against the rugged beauty of Cornwall’s coast, quarries, and windswept moors, The Teacher’s Noble Heart is a tender Regency romance of intertwined lives, mistaken conclusions, and love discovered in spite of every sensible intention.
My review
Miss Persephone Wilkins has always been a governess, but as now she is no longer needed as a governess, she feels that the time has come to claim her independence. Something that she never dreamed of being, but Persephone needs a purpose in life, and with an unexpected inheritance, she feels that now she can take that bold step. Once setting up her life in Cornwall, Persephone befriends Sophia. While their lives and even their dreams couldn’t be more different, an immediate friendship and trust is built. But the last thing Persephone expected, was how much the encounters with steadfast captain of Delabole slate quarry, James Pentarrant, would challenge her, on so many levels. The same can be said of the Sophia, after her encounters with doctor Nathaniel Rowe, a gentle man but not always seeing the progress or comprehension. However, with society having rules of their own, can these two strong women find the independence and happiness they are both searching for?
Whenever I am reading stories that are set in the past, whether it is in the Roman era, Regency, Victorian era, I am always happy somehow, living in the present. And that has all to do with the freedom we all have as women, the wealth we are living in. Things that the characters in such book don’t have, yet as strong women, something they all desire to find.
Because with this book, we see how limited women are. They cannot pursue a career, and not one they truly desire to pursue at all. And then we are not talking about falling in love and marriage…
At the start of the book, I felt a little bit sad for Persephone. While she is happy that the truth is out about her connection with Antonella (explained all in the previous book, but given the necessary info in this book too), it is also very clear that Antonella doesn’t need Persephone in the form of a governess anymore, having found love herself. And I could comprehend how at loss that made Persephone feel…
Yet at the same time I also admired her, because she has a dream, to bring knowledge to the less fortunate children. And with the received inheritance, she is able to pursue her dream, how difficult it may be in reality.
It shows that Persephone is not a quitter, no matter how difficult it all may seem, and how much people are wary and reluctant to agree with her ideas and views… She will make people ‘see sense’ and she will fight against the injustices she sees in Cornwall.
And we see what an open character Persephone is. The way she quickly befriends Sophia, how in sync they are, just wonderful. And it is even greater as both women are very different from each other, especially in their upbringing. Yet they just connect in a way that is truly remarkable. Even without speaking out loud, they see what is happening, what is going on in their minds, even before they realize it themselves.
While Sophia would be having a privileged life, we also see how restricted that can be. Not only because her family’s wealth means that Sophia is not free to choose who to marry, but that she (and even more important to her), she cannot choose her passion and practice medicine like she truly wants.
I was very curious to read how their stories would evolve, how their feelings and emotions would change, grow. And in a way, it was funny to read how those feelings are starting to bloom with exact the person they are clashing the most! 😊
Because isn’t it also true that there are people that you clash with, but that that person is the person that perhaps can understand you the best. And that despite the clashing, there are so many other things that you DO share, that you are on the same wavelength. If only you can see behind the clashing bits.
Of course there is a moment in the book where everything seem to go for the worst, where there are choices to be made that will end up in heartbreak somehow. Not only because there are literally lives at stake, but also the ‘laws’ of society not allowing to truly follow your heart.
This story was of course a joy to read, to see the development in each character, seeing the revelation of a few secrets. It was so easy to like all the main characters, even if sometimes they are clashing with each other. But most of all, it made once again realize that not so long ago, people, and especially women, did not have all the freedom we have now, and that they truly had to fight for their dreams and happiness.
With a lovely cover like this, don’t you just want to read the book?
Synopsis
They’re off for the time of their lives. But are you?
Book #1 in The Empty Nesters Series.
Single parent Heather isn’t neurotic (honest!) – she’s simply dreading the day her only child leaves for university – so her meticulous checklists grow longer by the hour. When she seeks advice on a parents’ forum, she clashes with Scott, a single dad whose “helpful” statistics and assertions about “helicopter parenting” leave her fuming.
Move-in day delivers the ultimate surprise: their daughters aren’t just roommates – they are self-declared “besties for life”. Suddenly, Heather and Scott are thrown into a begrudging alliance.
As they navigate the new status quo, Heather’s instinct to organise meets Scott’s philosophy of letting go. Their practical text messages about mattress toppers and emergency supplies evolve into conversations about dream jobs and bucket list aspirations. Despite their intentions to avoid relationships at all costs, unpredictable events keep throwing them together, meaning Heather and Scott find it increasingly difficult to ignore each other…
Ko Porteous lived in a tiny fishing village in the north of Scotland before moving to Edinburgh aged 10.
Ko loves meeting people with interesting stories to tell and is constantly on the lookout for knotty story themes, particularly involving women navigating the messiness of life. She has worked as a Research Chemist, Assistant Chef, Teacher and School Leader.
As well as writing, Ko works as a Business Manager and provides listening services for a mental health charity aiming to reduce the number of deaths caused by suicide.
In her free time Ko loves to run, meditate and travel; preferably all on the same day.
Ko has been married for 25 years, has 2 children of her own and is now navigating her own empty nest.
The Freshman Parents is Ko’s debut novel and is the first in ‘The Empty Nesters’ series.
Some places are special enough to heal hearts… Welcome to Little Beaubrook
In a tiny English village hidden away for decades, the mists are parting to reveal a manor which glows gold and tumbledown thatched cottages that have been waiting for the right people to rebuild them.
On moving in day, a diverse group of new neighbours have only two things in common. Their hearts have been broken in some way, and they’ve all signed a contract with some very strange stipulations, including buying one of the cottages for a pound. As Chair of the commonhold association, Albie Curville hopes that by sharing his late wife’s rules for living he can bring these reluctant strangers together to fulfil her dying wish before he runs out of time… and before they discover his secret.
When their newfound community – built on kindness, friendship and a manor with a long history of helping those in need – is threatened by an outside source, can they finally overcome their pasts to save Little Beaubrook and seize the second chances they deserve?
Come and visit this magical lost village for a cosy, feel-good story about love, found family, new beginnings and the healing power of community. Perfect for fans of Debbie Johnson, Jenny Colgan, Evie Woods and Phaedra Patrick.
My review
Little Beaubrook isn’t the kind of place that you can find easily. Hidden in the English mists, the manor only reveals itself in full glory in front of the right people. And Chair of the commonhold association, Albie Curville hopes that the new neighbours will be able to fulfil his late wife’s dying wish. Because there are some very specific stipulations to become part of the community Albie hopes to be building. But with every neighbour having a broken heart for one reason or another, their priority is not building a community and save Little Beaubrook. However, when an outside source is threating their new homes, the community that is built and is expanding on kindness and friendship, is doing all they can to save their homes. And perhaps they can also get a much deserved second chance in life?
When I started reading this book, I didn’t know what to expect. Of course I have read the blurb, but let’s be honest, it doesn’t tell you very much does it? 😊And I was a bit afraid that the ‘magical’ bits would be too unbelievable to make me actual believe it.
So I had a bit of a difficult start with it, also because there are many new neighbours moving into the manor, with their own story. But the more the story progressed, the more I found myself totally captivated by it, and also relieved that the magic is not the Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo kind of magic, but more as signs of the progress.
Even with the difficult start, I immediately liked Albie. Not only was it sweet to see how much he still loves his late wife, and how he wants to honour her last wish, but I also got ‘caring grandfather’ – vibes from him. Even if all the neighbours are freshly arrived and not all that willing to be part of the community how Albie wants, Albie just wants to help everyone out, even if it is just offering to listen, or go on walks without further expectations of any kind.
Talking about the new inhabitants, I will not explain the story or background of each character, but what I can say, is that it is a very eclectic group. Women, men, married, single, straight or LGBTQ, they are all welcomed in the manor, even if their background couldn’t be more different.
In a way, it was a bit funny how everyone wanted to be left alone yet is it because of Albie’s determination, or the manor and its ‘powers’, slowly each separate individual becomes part of the community. And it was lovely to read those messages on the board, how it is working and how slowly, very slowly, the messages are getting through.
And a common goal, to save their homes, bring all the characters even closer, allowing themselves to open up, to trust, to speak out, to be courageous. And the beauty was how when all the truths are out, there is no prejudice, just acceptance and warmth. Unity makes strength, but unity also bonds, creates friendships.
Little by little too, we see how the characters are able to let go of their past, how they are able to defeat the demons of their past. Which is absolutely not easy, but ever since moving to the manor, meeting Albie and the other neighbours, it seems that slowly a weight is being lifted, that each of them is able to see the sunlight after all the rain they had.
This isn’t always an easy story to read, as not only we learn about some characters’ past, but also about their present issues. However, we see also a lot of strength in this story, and that makes it a hopeful, warm story. Because strength, whether you find it yourself, or with the help of others, is what can make you believe in a second chance again.
And with that strength, that courage, that united front that you find with strangers, everything will flourish and look brighter. In the case of this book, you can take that actually literally! 😊.
“Bestselling author, Lydia Michaels, delivers a dark, billionaire romance with all of The Great Gatsby’s champagne charm and The Hunger Games’ high stakes, in this deliciously twisted retelling of Jack and the Beanstalk. For readers who like their heroes morally gray, their steam scorching, and their happily-ever-afters dripping with secrets, Feast of the Fallen has it all!”
They call it a game. But games have rules, and mine were written in blood.
I was starving when I applied to The Feast of the Fallen—a twisted hunt where the world’s most elite billionaires pay millions to chase women like me through a gilded labyrinth until dawn.
One million dollars just to play. Two million if I’m caught.
I told myself I’d run, hide, and take the money–unharmed–so I could finally escape the poverty that’s been choking me my entire life.
But I didn’t count on him, Jack Thorne, the phantom host, who built an empire from the ashes of corruption.
Jack may look like a savior, but he will stop at nothing for revenge. He watches from the shadows, turning predators into prey as giants gorge themselves on power. Then he brings the axe.
Tropes: Billionaire • Hunter/Prey • Touch Her and Die • Possessive MMC • Rags to Riches • Forced ProximityDark romance with explicit content. Please read responsibly.
My review
Daisy is struggling in life. Not only since her mother passed away, but always. But now that she is on her own, every penny counts. Bills keep on coming, rent keeps on going up, and that makes that Daisy doesn’t even always have the money for food or medical treatment. But one day, she finds a mysterious invitation, as she has been selected to participate at The Feast Of The Fallen, where the rich and powerful of the world, hunting the women who made the final cut. Daisy does not know what to expect, but with the reward being that of the kind to solve all her issues for life, she enters her application. How difficult can it be to stay out of the hands of the hunters? While the Feast is taking place on the Isles of Kassel, on the grounds of the Volkov Brothers, in fact the organizer of it all is Jack Thorne. Jack, who still carries the scars of his past, but has built his own empire from ash and blood, literally. Nobody knows that Jack is the director of The Feast, but when one guest breaks the rules, Jack steps out of the dark and shows that in fact, no one is more dangerous that him…
I have to be honest, I was a bit afraid at the start of the book. Not because I was afraid that I wouldn’t like the book, but because I was afraid of The Feast and what would be happening there. Having read the previous books, I knew how wild and rough things could get, but at The Feast, anything could happen, and I was already feeling sorry for the does/stags!
My heart went out to Daisy right from her first appearance in the book. I am not rich myself, but I am living a comfortable life. So I cannot imagine the hardship of making choices like paying rent or eating? Daisy’s life shows us how unfair life can be, that being a good person isn’t always rewarded by Life/Karma,…
Yet I also admired Daisy, as she always tries to be positive in life, always being kind and she is also the kind of person that doesn’t want her friends to worry about her. She would rather tell a lie than admit how dire her situation is…
Another honest remark from my side, I don’t know what I would do if I were Daisy, upon finding the strange invitation. Perhaps I would check it out, but I don’t think that I would apply, no matter how big the reward will be. However, we see that Daisy isn’t so sure herself, but her personal situation doesn’t give her another option, showing once again how bad things are for her…
Before I started reading this book, I thought that Jack had to be a very, self-centered person, only wanting to make as much money as possible, and to use his money and power. Because who else would come up with the idea of The Feast? A normal person like you and me would never come up with such ideas, right?
And no, Jack isn’t a good person. He uses his money and power as a way to get things done. He is even some kind of vigilante, when he sees the pure evil in men, he doesn’t hesitate to make them pay. He is also the kind of person that isn’t afraid to get his hands dirty.
But I wouldn’t say that Jack is an evil person… While growing up he has been through some horrible things, that no child should ever endure. And of course that made him into the man he is now. I am not justifying what he has done and is doing, but I could understand where he is coming from…
In a wicked way, he is doing the right thing. But in a wrong way…
I also was expecting that the changing dynamics between Daisy and Jack would be taking place earlier in the book. Instead, and not that it is a bad thing, we see a lot of Daisy trying to stay out of the hands of the hunters. And here we see not only Daisy’s instinct of survival, but also the evil that there is in men.
Because while there are rules, and most hunters stick to them, we also see that in this book, just like in real life, there are people that think that rules don’t apply to them… And then we need vigilantes like Jack…
Sweet isn’t the word that I would use to describe the dynamics between Daisy and Jack, but there is this connection between them. Their worlds couldn’t be more different, yet they couldn’t in a way be more alike. And that connection makes it possible for both character to undergo a change. Not that there is suddenly a personality change, because they will always be Daisy and Jack, but where they keep their distance, and are very reserved, while being together, they find with each other someone they can be truly honest and just be themselves.
This isn’t an easy story to read, but I was expecting that. And even the interaction between Daisy and Jack isn’t always an easy read. And there is absolutely no ‘sweetness’ in it, but there is in a way. Because what we see between Daisy and Jack goes beyond sweetness, it is connection, understanding and respect even for each other. And seeing that all taking place, overclassing in a way all the violence in the book, make me like this story, even more than I think I would…
When the dream is so close, things must go awry somehow, right?
Synopsis
Booksellers Florrie Appleton and her fiancé Ed are just three weeks away from their dream wedding. Between hand-selling beloved classics, unveiling Ed’s enchanting window displays and hosting lively book readings with local authors, they’ve managed to plan an intimate ceremony that promises to be everything they’ve ever hoped for – filled with literary delights, lots of laughter and the love of those closest to them.
But when Ed’s mother Dawn arrives unannounced on their doorstep, Florrie’s world is thrown into chaos like confetti. Dawn claims she’s come to help with the wedding preparations, yet she’s never shown the slightest interest in her son before. As she starts dismissing their carefully curated shelves and snooping around their cosy cottage, Florrie can’t shake the feeling that Dawn’s plans stretch far beyond simply choosing flowers and cake.
With her close-knit group of friends rallying around her and the bookshop’s loyal customers offering support, can Florrie protect her relationship and the bookshop that means everything to them both? Or will their happily ever after slip through their fingers like pages torn from one of her treasured books?
My review
Florrie Appleton and her fiancé Ed feel that everything is falling into place. Their bookshop is running well, Ed can let his inspiration run wild with enchanting window displays, and their wedding is just a few weeks away. A wedding that will be an intimate one, with many literary references and the people they love the most. But when Ed’s mother, Dawn, appears on their doorstep, Florrie just knows that chaos will ensue. Where other parents would be delighted with the success of their children, Dawn’s presence especially is one that worries everyone, as Dawn never showed any interest in Ed at all, and always has a personal agenda… Luckily Florrie is surrounded by the best friends she could ever imagine, as they always have her back, even if they cannot stop themselves by teasing Florrie with absurd hen do activities. And the customers of the bookshop couldn’t be more loyal. But will that be enough to let Florrie and Ed have their happily ever after? Or will it all slip through their fingers anyway?
When I started reading this book, I was wondering what could possibly happen next to this wonderful couple that already had to face a lot of challenges. Why couldn’t they just get their happily ever after without any hiccup? But on the other hand, if they did, we wouldn’t be falling in love even more with not only Florrie and Ed, but all their friends and family.
At the start of the book, it was truly great to see how happy Florrie and Ed were. We know that they have had their struggles before, and having found their happy place, it was just heartwarming to read. They have both grown so much throughout the books, with also a few ups and downs, but they seemingly made it.
I am not engaged or married myself, so I have not had the experience of having a hen do. But I could understand Florrie’s worries, as it is all out of her hands, and while she trusts her friends and loves them a lot, well, they are a crazy bunch, aren’t they 😊.
How hilarious was it to read how easily Florrie is made believe that her hen do will be something terrible! It isn’t a sign of Florrie being somehow gullible, but more of how persuasive her friends are, and how well they know her and love her. Because each activity is not just right for Florrie, but just spot – on!
But also in time of need can Florrie count on her friends, not only to unload her worries, but also to be there, to help her out, to comfort her and advise her. Because in this book, there are several moments that Florrie need to be surrounded by her friends, to help her trough her and Ed’s turmoil…
When Dawn appears, I knew that she would be changed even a bit. And the more the story progressed, the more it felt that Dawn’s character even worsened. How can a person be so vile,; mean, devious? And poor Ed, going through that all, at the hand of his own family…
But I also liked it, in a twisted kind of way, seeing how Ed is standing up for himself, expressing himself. Not only towards Dawn, but in a sweeter way, how Ed is also expressing his feelings towards Florrie, and how Florrie herself appreciates the grow he has been through.
And for Florrie, what happens for sure is a challenge, because if Dawn’s appearance and scheming wouldn’t be enough, she has to face one of her biggest fears…
But no matter what challenge the pair is facing, the love, the connection between them, is strong enough to go through it all, to get even closer and united. And that is the real strength of the story.
Because if you have this connection with someone, if you have already been through so much together, you as a couple can be strong enough for all the new curveballs. Even when things may seem to go downwards, as long as the love is there, the communication is there, the unity is there, after every rainfall there will be sunshine again.
Eliza J Scott put so much in this story, so much feelings (mainly good ones, but also disappointing ones concerning behaviour), so much heart, so much love that made me devour this book. Not that I expected any less from her!
When the voices of the past makes you want to uncover the truth about a well – known injustice
Synopsis
Now: When Ruthie gets the part of one of Macbeth’s famous three witches she can’t wait to get started. Inspired by the beauty of the film’s Scottish locations and the camaraderie of the cast and crew, she can leave behind the expectations of her family and her lacklustre love life, at least for now. But as echoes from the past begin whispering in Ruthie’s ear and a restless spirit draws her further into its centuries-old secrets, it soon becomes clear that only she can uncover the truth of a terrible injustice.
1050 Scotland: Isobel and her two sisters have learnt about healing from their loving mother Sidheag, and she in turn has kept them safe. But without the protection of their late father, Sidheag knows that her daughters must find husbands or their futures are at risk.
Isobel believes in love over duty and when she catches sight of King Macbeth’s stepson Lulach she can picture a happiness she had hardly dare imagine. But as heir to a Scottish throne that is drenched in blood, Lulach’s destiny is to be a warrior. When Isobel’s actions leave her and her sisters vulnerable to accusations of witchcraft there may be nothing that can keep the three women safe, not even the great Macbeth himself.
As the calls from the past grow ever louder, Ruthie has no choice. Macbeth’s witches have a story that needs to be told and the truth can no longer stay hidden…
My review
Ruthie cannot believe that she has been chosen to play one of the three witches of Macbeth’s story. And of course, it helps that all the scenes are being shot at Scottish locations, far away from the disappointing remarks from her family, and the remarks of her non – existing love life. While she befriends her fellow actors and the locals, she starts to hear and see things that are in away inexplicable. Because it would appear that there is a restless spirit lurking around… A spirit that would be of Isobel, who used to live with her two sisters in 1050’s Scotland. Isobel that has learned about how nature can heal, but without any protection from their late father, must need to find a husband for a happy future. But not like her sisters, Isobel isn’t looking for a husband, until she meets King Macbeth’s stepson, Lulach. And then Isobel starts to believe in a happy future, with Lulach. But Lulach is destined to become not only a warrior, but also a King. And when the rumours of the sisters being witches, the siblings’ lives are more than ever at risk…
As an Italian Belgian/ Belgian Italian, I am of course familiar with the works of Shakespeare. But while I know the stories in detail, I cannot tell you exactly what happens in which story. Or at least not of every story. And unfortunately, that is applicable for Macbeth…
But on the other hand, as this story uses Macbeth as inspiration, it gave me a clear and open – minded view on the story of Isobel, witches in general and the story of ‘side – characters’ beside Macbeth himself.
Of course there is a dual timeline, where we get to know both Ruthie and Isobel at the same time. Their lives are obviously very different, not only because they live in different eras, but they are both at a different stage in their lives.
What I loved about Ruthie from the start of the book, is her passion for acting. She knows that it isn’t what her family want for her and her future, but acting is what makes her heart skip a beat. And even if it isn’t the career that brings in the big moneys, she cannot imagine doing anything else. That is truly admirable, how she keeps on chasing her big dream.
And I liked it how Ruthie is this open person. She is kind towards everybody, and even when people aren’t that equally kind, she doesn’t change her behaviour. She remains that kind and understanding person.
Upon hearing and seeing the strange things in Scotland, I think I would be more terrified than Ruthie is. I am already a scaredy – cat in general, but seeing things in the shadows, seeing things in the fire, and hearing the rumours about the past and the connection with Macbeth, I think I would be running away screaming like a mad woman! But Ruthie, while scared herself, she wants to discover the truth. And that makes her cross paths with like – minded people, people that have the same passion for the truth.
A truth that is showing us the terrors of the past, that we are all aware of, of how people, especially women were accused of witchcraft…
Reading Isobel’s story truly broke my heart, because of the injustice she had to face, of the heartbreaks she had to endure. And all that while in fact, she is just an innocent young woman, just wanting happiness for her sisters and herself.
At the start of the book, everything is going rather okay with Isobel and her family. And I liked it how they all use the wonders of the nature for ailments. And how everyone from their village goes to all of them, to get the healing they need.
Isobel is a normal young woman, just wanting to be happy and content with her life. And she wishes her sisters all the love they deserve.
Their lives may be one of living in the woods, but Isobel and especially her mother, are respected by everyone, even by the queen. Their mixtures of herbs, their ‘visions’ in the flames, everyone relies on their help somehow.
Even with Isobel’s mother passing, Isobel is the one people turn in to for help. And I liked reading how Isobel is growing more confident over time, knowing how to help. But Isobel also becomes more responsible, as she wants to protect her sisters, even if they are older than herself, from the evils of the world.
Evils that she cannot protect herself of, as she falls into the ‘spell’ of love herself… Evil, because while love should be a lovely thing, we know not only from Shakespeare himself, but also from the start of the book, that things will not end well for poor Isobel…
Evil that truly angered me, because we see how easily opinions are changed, how easy things turn for the worst for the three sisters, even fatally… All that because of the cowardice of people, the fear of people, the ignorance of people.
And I could understand why Isobel’s spirit is still haunting in the presence, due all the injustice she had to face… Even if I don’t truly believe in lingering and haunting spirits, I could understand it…
I said it also before, I found it admirable of Ruthie how she is yes, a bit scared of what she experiencing, but she also want to find out what happens. And the more she uncovers, the more justice she wants for the young woman that was treated so badly in the past.
I found this a bittersweet story, as we see how Ruthie is making progress in her own life, while for Isobel her life is taking a turn for the worse. Yet no matter how badly things got for Isobel, at the end of the story, I felt in a way hopeful, because all the wrongdoings she had to endure are going to get a sort of redemption. Too late of course, but better late than never? And it also gives us hope as we see how Ruthie is looking forward to her own future, filled with happiness and love.
With a famous name, can fiction and reality collide?
Synopsis
Lizzie Bennet, new recruit at the Little Duck Pond Café, is well used to people teasing her about her name. Actually, she rather likes the fact she shares it with one of author Jane Austen’s most popular heroines. But when life weirdly starts to imitate fiction, it’s suddenly a very different matter. With two potential heroes appearing over the horizon, it’s obvious which one Lizzie should go for – isn’t it?
My review
Lizzie Bennet may be sharing a name with one of the most famous fictional characters in the world, and is used to people teasing her with her name. But for Lizzie, it isn’t a burden, as she is a big fan of Jane Austen. And having found a new job at the Little Duck Pond Café makes her more than happy. Until one day she has a very unpleasant encounter with an annoying stranger, who seems to know her boyfriend Wyatt. And that makes Dan(te) think that Lizzie is too judgemental and doesn’t have a mind of her own, while Lizzie thinks that he is very annoying, pompous and just very unpleasant. Until there is a mystery that intrigue the both of them and they decide to uncover the truth together. And perhaps, just like the famous story, Lizzie and Dan will realize that their first impressions were wrong?
I have many books that I love. But if there is one book that I absolutely adore, it is Pride & Prejudice by Jane Austen. I heard about this book while I was in high school myself, many moons ago. And then my passion for it started. As there have been adaptations, I can say that there is one that is ranked way higher than any other one, and it is the BBC series (Colin Firth, the lake, you know enough, right 😊).
So when an author that I love, like Rosie Green, has a book that has a connection with Jane Austen, of course I will read it, and even before I have read one word, of course I will love it! 😊
And I loved it seeing how our Lizzie in this book is sharing the same love. It would be easy for Lizzie to dislike her name a little bit, or not loving Jane Austen. But of course Rosie made us love Lizzie even more, by having a shared love.
Lizzie is a very warm character. Even if her whole family, Lizzie included, is still grieving over the loss of her father, Lizzie is the kind of person that does not just sit still. And she also understands that everyone has their own way of grieving, as her mother shows, or as her sisters show.
We also see that Lizzie is the kind of person who wants everyone to be happy, and tries to not let everyone get away. She is the voice of sense in several occasions, and truly a big sister for her siblings.
On the other hand, there are moments where I wished that Lizzie could see who Wyatt truly is. Because just as a reader, there are several red flags, and his behaviour is not something I could handle. But when you think you are in love, right?
Not that Dan(te) makes a better first impression, as I could completely comprehend Lizzie’s initial dislike for him and his colleague. Even if you don’t initially ‘gel’ with someone, there is always a level of politeness and respect you can show that person.
Now, I have to admit, while I don’t agree with his behaviour, I could understand where he was coming from, especially as Dan does it to protect his family… And seeing that side from him, made me just understand him better.
And he for sure makes up for that bad first impression the more the story evolves! We see a kind, generous, warm, funny Dan. A Dan that is well, impossible to resist, even for me! 😊
What I loved about this book, is the connection is had with Pride & Prejudice, and Jane Austen. I don’t know extremely a lot about Jane’s life, but the way Rosie Green in this book managed to write something with some fictional liberties, made it all pretty realistic. It all could have happened for real!
But the real beauty of this book is, is the bond that is growing between Lizzie and Dan (but sorry, even if his name is shortened, I actually like the name Dante and used it while reading 😊). They start off on the wrong foot, but their shared curiosity brings them spending more time together.
And then sparks start to fly around, as not only there is a physical attraction, but they both realize they have more in common than imagined.
Let’s also add to the equation that there are worries that sound very relatable, worries about other’s opinions and lies (or truths) that are not being told…
Oh and let’s not forget about the many, many similarities there are between this Lizzie and Dan and the other Lizzie and Mr. Darcy! Because while this is a different stories, there are many common grounds, links that you could make with the classic.
In other words, Lizzie and Dan captivated my attention, and I loved reading their story from the start till the very end. Even if I reached the end too quickly unfortunately… 😊
Some houses won’t let go of the past. Some people won’t, either…
When single mum Libby is offered a life-changing sum of money to clear out an old cottage in the woods, she expects dust and decay. She doesn’t expect a house full of secrets, a room full of birds, and a woman who refuses to leave.
The handsome but stressed architect who hired Libby is also a puzzle. Why can’t Ross empty Elm Cottage himself? What can he possibly see in Libby, who has been burned by love and is wary of attachment? How can they persuade the mysterious but kindly Isobel to move on?
As Libby is pulled into the cottage’s story, she must face up to her own deepest fears. Can she help Isobel, fight the past that haunts her, and learn to open her own heart to love once more?
Jane Lovering’s new novel is a delicious, romantic mystery where secrets, love and healing weave through every page.
My review
Libby is a single mother hiding in a hostel from an abusive relationship. With money being a struggle and not having anyone to help her, she accept the offer and the substantial sum of money. What she has to do, is clear out an old cottage in the woods. Would be easy-peasy, But the woman living in the derelict cottage with a bunch of scary birds doesn’t want to leave her home at all. So with Rob chasing Libby to clear the cottage, and Isobel refusing to budge, Libby finds herself between two fires. She also finds herself invested in the story of Elm Cottage and also the reason why Rob cannot empty it himself. And then there is the issue with Rob, who clearly shows an interest in Libby. But with so many fears, Libby needs to face them first, before she can even think about anything else…
Before I start with my actual review of the book, I have to say that with this title, the genre could have perfectly been also a thriller or a horror 😊.
But, as it is a Jane Lovering, of course it is not a terrifying thriller or horror!
Right from the start, it is so obvious that Libby is not living her life, rather just surviving. With her lovely daughter Tilly, Libby is trying to make the best out of her current situation. But anyone can see that it isn’t a healthy situation they are living in. Not that Libby is a bad mother, but her fear is holding her back. And while she tries to be more courageous, to not show Tilly her fears, it isn’t easy.
And seeing that situation, truly saddened me. It shows us how left to your own devices you can be. Because yes, Libby is in hiding, and she for sure could use more help from authorities, but she is struggling on every possible level.
Despite all her struggles, Libby tries to be the best possible mother to Tilly, under these difficult circumstances. She wants her little girl to feel save, to enjoy her childhood. But she also wants to protect her from all the dangers in the world.
So when Rob ‘hires’ Libby to make sure Elm Cottage is being cleared out asap, I could understand Libby’s wariness. It is a strange request, and when Rob makes clear that money isn’t an issue, it sounded even more and more strange even to me.
I had several question marks with Rob’s behaviour, and I wondered why he cannot clear out the cottage himself. How hard can it be, right?
However, while his behaviour may look a bit shady initially, there is a logical explanation for it all, and even the money – issue made sense after Rob’s explanation.
Rob doesn’t make the best of first impressions, but the further the story evolves, the more we see how he tries to comprehend Libby and how he can support her. And while I would have expected him to want to help Libby more out, I could see how him just supporting Libby and wanting to solve everything for her, is not only the best solution for Libby, but also for Rob himself, with his background.
Libby’s fear for birds was something I could easily relate with. I am also afraid of everything with wings, but not as much as Libby. So when reading how Libby enters the cottage filled with birds, I just got terrible goosebumps! I would be running outside, screaming like a madwoman 😊.
Yet it amazed me how all those terrifying birds were somehow trained by Isobel, the woman living in the cottage.
To say that Isobel is a character, would be an understatement. She chose to not talk anymore, and that alone is already something unique. But she is also a remarkable woman, as without any words, she sees and understands everything that is happening around her. And without any words, she is able to pass her thoughts and remarks.
And yes, it is thanks to Isobel, that there are changes taking place. Not only with Libby and Tilly, but also Rob gets some important insights, that without Isobel perhaps would be kept hidden.
There is also an important message about mental health in this story. I am not going to divulge into it, as it is something you need to read and understand yourself. But what I can say, is that it made me realize that things aren’t always what they seem to be, and that it isn’t easy to understand what is truly going on. There still isn’t a clear map about how the brains and the mind function, making it also more difficult for the people around to act in the right way, without scaring away the person involved.
Perhaps this issue was handled a little bit too hasted, as I for sure found myself looking up for more information. But on the other hand, this isn’t a psychological book.
Because this book shows us how a woman living in fear, with meeting perhaps random people, can start to become a little bit more courageous. It can go from not being too scared around birds, to trust people, to let people back in your life. And perhaps even allow your heart to open up again…
While perhaps Libby’s story will not be too relatable to you, as it didn’t always was to me, it for sure worked as an inspiration, as a moment that made me want to know more. And of course, as accustomed with this lovely author, this book gave me the need to just keep on reading!
The winds of change are sweeping through the idyllic Cotswold village of Lower Leaping.
After a tumultuous few months, Tess Alexander is ready to welcome her first guests to The Garden Retreat, a beautiful lodge in the grounds of Hollyhocks Cottage.
With her daughter Hannah home from her travels in Australia and her mother, Marjorie, acting out of character, Tess has to juggle many demands on her attention. Even her flourishing relationship with dashing Rob Templeton is put to the test when he faces an emotional dilemma from his past and Barney, her beloved beagle, has her at her wits end.
Tess can weather most storms with the unbridling support of her close friends Dilly, Gina and Suzy but when a passing remark in the local pub causes her to question one of those friendships, she wonders who can she really trust?
Can Tess overcome the obstacles in her path to find the happy ending she truly deserves?
My review
Tess Alexander had to face a lot of changes the last few months. But now things are finally coming along, and Tess is ready to welcome her first guests to The Garden Retreat in her garden. And even if things started a bit rocky, her relationship with Rob Templeton made her believe in love again. However, Tess quickly realizes that her worries are far by over, as her daughter is back home from Australia with more than just a broken heart, Tess’s own mother is acting completely out of character, and even Rob is acting differently as his past is catching up with him again. And even a passing remark in the local pub makes her question the loyalty of her best friends. So can Tess find her silver linings again, can she reclaim her happy ending that she for sure deserves?
It is always a bit scary starting a second book in a series. Because the story previously wrapped up perfectly, and with a new book, you are a bit afraid for what is looming around the corner once again for the main characters.
We left Tess previously with a happy feelings, as after her marriage falling apart, with her own ‘stubbornness’, she has been able to turn her life around, find a purpose again and even found love again. At the start of this book, I was still proud of how far Tess has come and how she was looking forward to her changed yet better future.
But of course life always keeps on throwing curveballs, that is just how life goes. And with each curveball, we see how much Tess has grown.
For example: when her lovely daughter is at a crossroad again, it would be easy as a mother to tell her what to do. But Tess knows that the best way to learn, is to make your own choices and perhaps even mistakes. And Hannah is old enough to know what she wants, or what she doesn’t want, or that she just doesn’t know yet. Tess is being the supportive mother that Hannah needs her to be, without judgement, but just being by her side.
However, Tess is still a worrier 😊 Not only does her daughter cause Tess worries, but also her own mother. We know that all the women of the family are strong women, so seeing the matriarch acting out of character, made me worry too. It couldn’t be that something terrible would be happening to this fierce woman?
And when Rob also starts to act different, or is apparently keeping things from her, we see how previous doubts and insecurities start to resurface. It was for sure recognizable, because no matter how growth we have been through, it is easy to fall back into traps of the past.
But we see with the struggles that Tess is facing, whether it is with her own thoughts about her daughter, her worries about her mother, the doubts with Rob, that communication is key. Of course communicating openly about things is easier said than done, as there is the risk that you may hear things you don’t want to hear, but especially in this case, it would have avoided many worries for Tess.
Yet also in this story Tess keeps on growing, she is more courageous. She has the guts to stand her ground, to clearly show her borders, and doesn’t let anyone walk over her that easily anymore.
And like the title says, also her heart is healing. Where it already was opening up with Rob, matters of the heart are always a work in progress.
This isn’t a story that is filled with drama over drama over drama. Yes, there is *some* drama 😊 but it isn’t always earth – shattering. There is drama that could happen to any of us, and how it is handled is how any sensible person would.
But no matter what curveball is thrown, Tess never loses her ‘Tess-ness’, as she doesn’t act indifferent no matter who is in front of her. She never stops caring, worrying and loving. And that is the strength of her character, but also of the story in itself. Because with heart, even if it is still a healing one, the right thing will always be done. And with heart, even a healing one, love (any kind of love) always will be victorious.
Scarlett Hope has found a surprising rhythm at Haddon House. Just months into life with Laird Edward Cameron-Reid, their chemistry is electric, and the future feels full of promise – but something inside her is stirring. She’s traded city charm for estate calm yet still feels caught between worlds.
Then Harry shows up. A famous music producer – and a blast from Scarlett’s past – he’s in town to film with a renowned band. His arrival is magnetic, disruptive, and the last thing she ever expected. Scarlett loves Edward, but Harry’s presence reawakens the version of herself she thought she’d left behind.
When Edward’s daughter announces she’s pregnant and moves in full-time, the pressure only grows. And when Scarlett meets Sophie, a young woman struggling to make a home for her unborn child, one small act of kindness turns into something far bigger – a project that might just change everything. But as tragedy strikes, Scarlett faces a deeper choice – not between two men, but between who she was and who she’s becoming.
Too Much to Hope For is a high spice, emotionally layered story of love, legacy, and identity – about staying rooted in love while growing into something more. Perfect for readers who loved the emotional fire of A New Hope in the Highlands, the small-town heart of Things We Never Got Over, and the soul-deep reckoning of After I Do.
My review
Scarlett Hope couldn’t be happier now that everything fell into place. The bond with her mother is slowly restoring, and she is happily in love with Edward Cameron – Reid. After everything she has been through in the past, she has finally find a place to call home in Haddon House, with people she can trust and love. Yet Scarlett cannot shake the feeling that she cannot be truly be herself, as she also doesn’t has all the answers to her own questions about who the real Scarlett truly is and what would give her real purpose. To add further complications, not only is Edward struggling with holding everything together, but also an old friend from Scarlett arrives and ads extra pressure on the already frail relationship. And then there is unexpected news from Edward’s family that shakes the boat even more. How much can both Scarlett and Edward take and how strong is their relationship, as there must be a limit to their strength…
In many books, the story ends when the main characters finally get together. But in real life, we all know that getting together is the easiest part. Being in a relationship means to open up, let the other person completely in, to find compromise, to communicate and be honest. All easier said than done, but it is always a work in progress, no matter how big the love is.
We know that there is a lot of passion and desire between Edward and Scarlett, but we also know that Scarlett comes with a lot of baggage and that Edward needs to find a way to open up and let Scarlett truly in. And they should not just give in to their desire to each other, but also find a way to openly communicate about, well, everything.
And to be honest, while I loved reading the passion and the love between Edward and Scarlett, it was a bit frustrating to see how especially Scarlett is always facing a brick wall. Edward does his best, but it is difficult to let go of some habits. And it also frustrated me a bit reading how Edward doesn’t always seem to understand Scarlett. And mainly, it angered me also to see how he doesn’t always think before he speaks, hurting Scarlett more than just once in the process.
Now, I need to admit too, that Edward for sure has a lot on his plate, and things are just added on the immense pile… He truly is trying to be the man that Scarlett deserves, but you know, old habits…
When Harry enters the scene, I was truly worried about Edward and Scarlett, because not only does Edward shows a level of jealously (righteously or not…) but I could see how Harry’s presence could risk things even furthermore…
On the other hand, I was happy for Scarlett to see her old friend back, as he could remind her of the Scarlett she used to be. And perhaps that remembering the shared past, Scarlett could find her real self again. And I could see that Harry was a real supportive friend to her, even if it was crystal clear to me that his feelings perhaps weren’t just amicable…
Another thing I need to admit, is that the author for sure has a cruel streak, because Edward, Scarlett and their families are going through several hardships. Life for sure isn’t always fair to any of them, and they are all tested to their limits…
Cruel author too, as Rachel Debrave at one point made several hearts break in this book, but mine included… Again it shows how Life goes, and just how unfair and frail it all is…
In this book, Edward and Scarlett for sure are tested, not only as individuals, but also as a couple, especially as a couple. The both of are on a learning journey, where Scarlett learns and rediscovers the old Scarlett again. And she learns to stand up for herself and knows that love isn’t a free pass for one’s behaviour.
And Edward learns that love is worth the change. That being the old Edward is not what will keep the love alive and being his old self will only push Scarlett, and his loved ones further away.
This book is about change. Change that is necessary, change to just be your real self, change to let love win. Change to survive whatever curveball Life throws you. Change to become a stronger person than you already are. And that all for love’s sake…
Tizi’s Book Review 