When six turns out to be the perfect number (or not…)

Synopsis

A simmering Fangirl Down X Rivals X Crazy Rich Asians (with a British twist)

LOLA is juggling two jobs to make ends meet; underpaid sales exec by day, and waitress in a cocktail bar by night.

MONTY is the captain of Bath Beasts cricket team and heir to a portfolio of luxury properties.

Girls like her don’t normally end up with boys like him. But when she accidentally bares all at his cup final, destiny (and the number six) ensures their match is a home run.

Unfortunately, Monty’s family has other ideas, doing all they can to prevent their golden boy from getting bowled over by the lowly Lola. Can their love survive the attacking shot? Or will they find themselves on a sticky wicket?

My review

Life isn’t easy on your own, that is something Lola for sure knows. That is why she is trying to juggle two jobs at the time. If only things at her main job, being a sales exec, would be enjoyable, she would be able to enjoy life some more. But no, her newest colleague for sure doesn’t know which lines cannot be crossed, and can charm his way out of everything. Even at a cricket game, with important people, he doesn’t stop, causing Lola to find herself in the spotlight, showing a little bit too much. That for sure draws the (unwanted) attention to her. Not only of everyone in the stadium, but also the attention of Monty, the captain of the Bath Beasts cricket team. He knows from the field what happened to Lola, but Monty even afterwards cannot get that woman out of his mind. Monty is trying to figure out how to follow his passion, but without completely disappointing his family and their business. So when Lola and Monty start getting to know each other, it is not only Lola who believes that she is punching above her weight, but also Monty that needs to fight his own family, who believe that Lola isn’t good enough for their golden boy. So will whatever is growing between Monty and Lola be strong enough to fight against everything and everyone that want them to go their own ways?

I have gotten to know this author with her food – related books. Causing me yes, to be hungry after each book. So if this time, she is going the sports – tour, of course I had to read this too. Even if my knowledge of cricket is non – existing, why would I let that aspect hold me back?

Now, rather quickly in the book, I was getting angrier with  every moment. Not because I didn’t like the story up that far, but because of the behaviour of some of the characters Lola is working with. In these times, you would assume that such behaviour would be quicker condemned, and that we all would be able to see through the farce and charm of others.

I don’t know if I could handle it all so gracefully as Lola does. Being diplomatic isn’t something I am known for, so I was perhaps a bit jealous of Lola, taking it all in, not letting anyone see how much she actually is hurt. She doesn’t let ‘the bullies’ win!

However, her moment of ‘shame’, wow, I don’t think I would be ever able to show my face anywhere!  I could completely comprehend how Lola is feeling in those moments, while she isn’t at fault in any way, no matter how others may see it!

So even if I was ready to jump into the book, and give everyone that somehow has hurt Lola a good shouting, it is also how Lola and Monty truly meet and how their story starts…

Like I said earlier, I don’t know a lot about cricket, but I have to say that in all sports, I like it to see how the players are all committed, passionate about the sport they love. And that for sure also applies to Monty.

If you would have to base your opinion of Monty purely on his family, you wouldn’t warm towards him like I did. Yes, it is easy to make judgements about a person based on what those close to him do or act like.

But in Monty’s case, it is clear that he is part of a wealthy family, but that in fact he is very different. He just wants to do what he loves, what he is passionate about. In fact, he just wants what we all want… Be happy by following our passions, what makes our heart beat faster.

And Monty is just such a likeable character… He is very down to earth, he isn’t the kind of person to flaunt with his wealth. If he wouldn’t be part of a family that has been running a very successful business, I truly believe that he would be the same guy.

Although there may be one bit that I would think that Monty should have learned to do better… And that is to stand up for himself a lot better. Because we see that he wants to follow his passion, but finds it difficult to be so outspoken about it with his family. On the other hand, that is also a bit understandable, as he clearly has a lot to live up to. And it is always easier said than done, isn’t it?

Lola’s and Monty’s lives couldn’t be more different from each other. Monty seemingly has it all, and Lola has not a lot. But what they both share, is that in fact, they aren’t happy with their current lives, and what their prospects may be.

They both have dreams that seem faraway dreams, yet it in a way, it was funny to read how similar those dreams look like!

And let’s not forget, that there is clearly sparks flying around when these two lovely people are together, despite their backgrounds or opinions from their loved ones. It was sweet to see how extreme they first lay eyes on each other, but then slowly there is a friendship growing between them, and even more.

And while I don’t believe in it myself, how their lives are entwined with the number six. Suddenly, after meeting Monty, Lola is aware of that number appearing more regularly in her life. If that isn’t a sign, I don’t know what she needs more! 😊

I always enjoy reading stories about people finding each other, even if they are very different from each other. But I like discovering with the main characters what it is that bring them together, what unites them.

Isabella May managed to capture my attention and to keep it, despite a sport I have no affinity at all with it. All thanks to great main characters, and their personal, mutual and combined growth they are going through!

Have you also fallen in love with the cover and are you eager to read?

Synopsis

A heartwarming, feel good romantic comedy. ‘I absolutely adored this book. It gave me all the feels! A charming read full of warmth and heart.’ ***** Kim the Bookworm

Bea Winters is in desperate need of a fresh start. Being bullied at work is not her idea of fun and she longs to follow her dream of becoming a published author. When an advert appears in her local paper to work in a publishing house in the sleepy village of Bloomsdale, it sounds too good to be true.

She strikes up an instant friendship with gorgeous aspiring author, Eddie Richards and her dashing millionaire boss Scott Summers. But all isn’t as it seems in the sleepy village of Bloomsdale.

How does the local clairvoyant know her name? Who does the little black dog that keeps appearing belong to and why does she keep bumping into the mysterious Charlie?

As she starts to unravel the truth, it seems that everyone in Bea’s life is keeping secrets.

An uplifting romantic comedy that will warm your heart – perfect for fans of Cathy Bramley, Milly Johnson and Carole Matthews.

Purchase Link – https://amzn.eu/d/40GUHk8

About the author

I was born in Coventry but now live in Nuneaton. I married the love of my life over 20 years ago and we have two almost grown up children. We share our lives with two mad dogs as well.

Writing is a great passion of mine, that one day I hope to be able to turn into a career but until that day comes, I will continue working in accounts and payroll.

The cover!

Love doesn’t come easy…

Synopsis

Lottie’s relationship with Greg ends when he leaves her for Emma, a decision that links their lives in ways neither woman could foresee. 

Emma traps Greg into marriage when she becomes pregnant. Later, a one-night stand leaves Lottie carrying Greg’s child, forcing them into an uneasy co-parenting arrangement. 

As both women navigate their complicated ties, they build an uneasy alliance. And when Lottie faces the ultimate challenge, she is forced to ask Emma for help. Can two women who once loathed each other come together during a dark time? 

Poignant, heart-wrenching, and hopeful, this is a tale of resilience and the power of unexpected connections. 

My review

Lottie is happy with her relationship with Greg, as she truly believes she has found The One. Until Greg falls in love with Emma and believes that his future is with her… Lottie is heartbroken and finds it difficult to move on and finds herself in a downward spiral. However, Emma feels that she is losing Greg, and to make sure that she doesn’t lose the man she loves, intentionally gets pregnant, which forces Greg to marry Emma. But as Lottie and Greg have been together for so long,  their lives are entwined, and as they have the same friends, they keep on seeing each other on several occasions; making it difficult for Lottie to truly get over Greg, and for Emma to get over her jealousy… But over the course of time, both women, once enemies, are forced to work together, as Life isn’t making things easy for either of them…

Life never goes as expected, and that is for sure something Lottie learns on her journey.

It must be devasting to see how the man you love, leaves you for another woman. However, when in most cases, you are able to severe all ties with your ex, as Lottie and Greg have been together for a long time, her friends are his friends and the other way around. So how haunting can it be, when you are forced to not only keep on seeing the man that broke your heart, but also seeing him happy with another woman?

I could understand that Lottie finds it hard to move on, as she is constantly faced with what she lost. But I have to admit, that I never did warm towards Greg. He seems like the guy that wants to have it all, without having to face responsibility of his actions.

Yes, of course, when Emma falls pregnant, he does the right thing by marrying her. But he doesn’t do it because of his love for Emma, more out of duty, as he doesn’t want his child to go through the same as he did.

His inability of letting Lottie go, makes Lottie make decisions that I could comprehend in one way, but I didn’t agree with them. There are lines in my opinion that cannot be crossed, yet in this book, they are crossed… But at least Lottie knows that what she is doing, is wrong…

I have to say, that the blurb of the book gives away a lot. Because I was expecting Lottie’s pregnancy earlier in the book, while in fact it takes a long time, even years pass, before it happens. And the same can be said of her diagnose.

This book in fact, is the long journey that Lottie is going through. And not a journey over days, weeks or months, but in fact over years. We see not only how she gets over her heartbreak, or how she is making mistakes, but also how she is standing up again, learning from her mistakes, starts to trust again.

We also see how relationships change, and how in some cases they even stay the same. Not only the relationship with Greg changes at the start of the book, but also the relationship between Lottie and her friends change. Not that there is a falling out, but life take them in different directions, no path is the same. Yet it was heartwarming to see how their friendship stands against every test that Life throws them.

In this book, we don’t only see Lottie’s story, but also Emma’s. And just like Greg, I didn’t like her from the start. Especially when there is the tricking part, I just couldn’t understand Emma’s desperation. But on the other hand, love make us do crazy things, doesn’t it?

While it makes sense and is more than understanding that Lottie and Emma initially are enemies, I liked reading how over time, even their relationship shifts. Because of the made decisions, their lives are and will forever be entwined, and both women, over the years are trying to make their awkward situation work.

So while Lottie’s life has many ups and downs, where hope rises and falls, we see how she can rely on her loyal friends and even unexpected allies to get her trough her toughest of moments, over and over again.

There was a moment in this book, at another low of Lottie, where I thought that she had been through a lot already, and that it wasn’t fair of what she has to face again. But in real honestly, whenever is life truly fair?

Yet reading about Lottie’s resilience, her fights, her struggles, even her lowest moments, but also reading about the support, help and love she receives, even from unexpected corners, shows us how strong we all can be and ready to fight those battles.

This isn’t an easy journey to read through, as the author shows us how many twists there can be in our lives. But we also see how stronger we can get after each fight, and that life can be too short to wallow in misery and sorrow. And that no matter what we have been through, we should never lose hope, and always believe in love.

When life keeps on turning, can it turn for the better too?

Synopsis

Every night, Jasmine Ingilby dreams of delicate sugar flowers and perfectly swirled buttercream. By day, she steals moments between her cleaning shifts to craft stunning cakes from her tiny kitchen, hoping to transform her passion into something more. But as a fiercely independent single mother of two, finding time to grow her fledgling business feels like reaching for the impossible.

Just when her hard work seems about to pay off, Jasmine’s carefully balanced world begins to crumble. Her landlord puts a ‘For Sale’ sign outside her rented home. Then a figure from her past returns to town, reopening old wounds Jasmine thought had long healed and causing trouble at school for her young children.

Then Max Grainger – her childhood best friend – unexpectedly returns to Micklewick Bay after twenty-five years away, and Jasmine is blindsided by the emotions his presence stirs. Now a successful businessman with a son of his own, Max seems determined to solve all her problems. But years of self-reliance have built walls around Jasmine’s heart that even the sweetest gestures struggle to break through.

Will Jasmine’s fear of getting burned again stop her from accepting help when she needs it most? Or will the loyal support of her friends help her discover the perfect recipe for love?

A heartwarming, emotional read about second chances, friendship, and finding the courage to believe in yourself, perfect for fans of Jessica Redland, Jenny Colgan, and Phillipa Ashley.

My review

Jasmine Ingilby has many ball to keep up in the air. Being a single mother of two, even if they are delightful, children, isn’t easy. Especially as there just aren’t enough hours in a day, as Jasmine needs to combine her cleaning job with her real passion, creating amazing cakes for her customers. With the help of her lovely parents and wonderful friends, not only does Jasmine manage to be in control. However, just when things start to look up, suddenly her landlord puts her home for sale, and a nasty memory from her past resurfaces, and old wounds are not only reopened, but also affect her children. But not all is bad, because there is another return, in the form of her childhood best friend, Max Grainger. And Max for sure built a successful career, and wants to repay Jasmine and her family for everything they have done for him. But Jasmine has been through a lot and finds it difficult to let her guard down around Max, and see that his help comes from the right place. So will Jasmine be able to let go of her fears and dare to live her life at her fullest?

First of all, I cannot express how delighted I was to return to Micklewick Bay! It has been a while since my last visit, but it was so easy and fast to settle down in this lovely place again!

I have to say, that I was in awe of Jasmine. She has been through a lot, hasn’t has an easy time, and yet she manages to keep everything afloat. She is an amazing and committed mother, and the fact that both of her children are such sweethearts, is all up to her. And that despite the despicable behaviour of their grandparents of their father’s side.

Being a single mother isn’t an easy task, yet her children are always and will always be her first priority. No cleaning job, or baking job is more important than her son and daughter. And seeing that love, that parental love, was just so heart – warming… Jasmine is truly a Momma Bear, protecting her cubs against anything and anyone that may be a threat.

Jasmine is also the kind of mother that doesn’t show the worries to her children. She doesn’t want to burden them, or make it clear that things aren’t that easy for their close unit of a family. Because there are several worries, and the more the story evolves, the more the struggles increase, unfortunately…

I was happy to read that Jasmine, no matter what curveball is being thrown at her, she has the support of not only wonderful parents, but also amazing friends. No matter what situation she finds herself in, not of her own doing obviously, she has a real group that will have her back, help her out and even be her biggest fans and gently nudge her to take that terrifying step into the unknown.

While I was in awe of Jasmine, and I am not even talking about her baking skills that I just want to taste myself (and I am a bit envious of too…), I could also understand her pride. Because it’s one thing to accept the help of her parents, and listening to the words of wisdom of her friends. But it is a complete different thing when someone offers you what you want on a platter. Even if that person is an old friend.

Talking about old friends… Present – Max is an amazing man, who has been building his own success. Yet he is still a down – to – earth person, never forgetting where he came from, and who has been there in his darkest moments, as a young boy struggling.

My oh my… my poor heart just couldn’t take it, reading what he has been through as a young boy… Not only was it truly difficult to read about his situation at home, but seeing how at school he had to endure bullying, and that the adults at that time in the school, didn’t do the necessary… I just couldn’t handle it, weren’t it for Jasmine and her family.

The Ingilby’s for sure show what it means to be kind, warm, loving and altruistic. Because when young Max is struggling, they not only open their home, but also their hearts for this little kid, who in fact is in desperate need to feel loved and cherished. And that is what the Ingilby’s do…

I loved reading how easy things are when Jasmine and Max reunite, their friendship easily restored, even after being separated for years? And yes, I have to admit, I had my fingers crossed as I wanted things to evolve in a certain direction, especially after reading young Max’s declaration when he leaves Micklewick Bay!

In this book, we see Jasmine struggling. Struggling of letting her high – built walls down, but also struggling of just daring to dream bigger and bolder. It can be scary, to dream away, to chase the dreams, especially when you are already struggling. But aren’t dreams always worth to be chased? Aren’t those high walls made to fall apart?

I absolutely loved reding this story, as it shows the difficulties and the nastiness of the world and of life. But it also shows the warmest hearts, the generosity of people, the support of your loved ones. And there is also so much hope in this book, and the fact that you should always believe in yourself, and in your own strength and power.

Eliza J. Scott wrote a wonderful, empowering tale, showing us that we all should dare to dream and to never give up on those dreams. And perhaps even more important, that kindness, love and heart neve come at any cost, yet it is something truly invaluable!

When a community truly comes together

Synopsis

Take a summer break to stunning Northumberland via the pages of this feel-good romantic comedy by award winning writer Kimberley Adams. Full of love and laughter, it will leave you yearning to visit this iconic location in person!

When a stranger appears in the middle of a very important celebration, no one can foresee the island connections that will later come to light. Kittiwake Penaluna is drawn to the island at a sad time in her life; she’s broken, but it doesn’t take long for the islanders to rally round and take her under their wing.

Ellie and Zen are busier than they’ve ever been, jumping from task to task with little time for themselves. Will they ever find a moment together away from all the drama that constantly follows them around the island?

The forthcoming arrival of nine new mini animals puts even more pressure on the islanders, but Bert is resolute, and it’s all hands to the pump to prepare for their arrival. The Mini-Fest fundraiser gets off to a great start, until a despised face from the past appears and throws everything into chaos.

Full of heart, Love Forever Lindisfarne is a story steeped in love and community. You’ll reunite with beloved characters who feel like old friends and meet a few lively newcomers with big personalities! Each page will pull you deeper into island life and leave you with a wide smile and a warm glow!

Praise for Kimberley Adams taken from Amazon reviews:

‘Kimberley’s books often feel more like a chat between friends than reading a book, she has the knack of making the reader feel they are part of the action and at the heart of the story.’ Ginger Book Geek Reviewer.

‘The characters just jump off the page and charm you and are so well drawn you can almost see them.’ Amazon customer.

‘I want to visit Lindisfarne even more after reading Kim’s books.’ June, Australia.

‘Thank you for writing such a beautiful love letter to Northumberland.’ Kindle Customer.

‘Witty, great storytelling and a wonderful mix of characters that keep you engaged and invested.’ Orapps.

My review

Ellie and Zen are going lengths together, not only as a couple, but also with their jobs. The time they spend together may be diminishing, but their love never does. They are also love living in Lindisfarne, with their family and friends. However, when at an important celebration, a stranger appears, clearly in need of help, nobody even thinks about leaving the young Kitti on her own. When it becomes clear that there is somehow a connection between the broken girl and the island, everyone is even more than ready to help Kitti and give her a place to heal and have a place to call home. And no one would have thought that when the islanders decide to rescue nine mini animals, that Kitti would be more than willing to offer a helping hand. But no matter how much everyone likes and even loves Kitti, when an old face reappears, it may jeopardize everything… And no matter how good things are going between Ellie and Zen, will they manage to not lose themselves and each other?

There are places and communities in books that make you want to visit the place and experience all the lovely bits yourself. And even if the place, just like this island, is real, would it be the same without the characters you have gotten to known?

I was happy to read how strong and reliable the relationship between Ellie and Zen is still going. They show us that even when things aren’t always going 100% smoothly, with love, communication, and mutual respects, you can go far.

And seeing how they are so in sync with each other, how just one look, or not even that, they understand each other, think the same, is just something to be honestly jealous of. Doesn’t everyone want that kind of relationship?

While of course it was delightful to read about their relationship and their love, I was mostly invested by the appearance of Kitti. Right from the start, my heart went out to this girl, who is truly alone, lonely and just heartbroken…

And even if Kitti came to Lindisfarne on purpose, Lindisfarne is exactly what she needs to heal her broken heart, but also to feel loved and surrounded by lovely people again. It is easy to say that no child should get ‘into the system’, as every child deserves to grow up with lovely and loving parents, that is not how life works. And while Kitti undoubtedly has found good foster parents, they are facing troubles and cannot provide her the love and care she needs.

It was just so heartwarming to read how the whole community in a way adopted Kitti, making her feel wanted, needed and just part of them. And even when there is a sudden reappearance from the past, jeopardizing everything, the whole community sticks together once again, to be one front.

The community shows in this book more than just once, what a united front can do. Seeing them all working together, to find solutions in more than one aspect, just amazing!

There are of course, like expected so many funny, even hilarious bits in this story! I for sure had a few good laughs! But those moments weren’t a match for all the moments of love that are taking place in this lovely book. Because on every page, every paragraph, every sentence, every word, is filled with love. Even when the characters are going through a rough patch, the love is ever present. And that made reading this book something truly amazing!

We ain’t afraid of no ghost

Synopsis

The beautiful Cotswold village of Rowan Vale is run as a living museum, allowing tourists to see history in action. But there’s more to the place than any visitor would guess…

Fifty-something Shona grew up in the village and now runs its vintage, 1940s-themed teashop. Not everyone knows that the previous manager, her great-aunt Polly, still lives there too… as a ghost!

When newcomer Max arrives, hoping to find out more about the place where his German grandfather was a prisoner of war, both Shona and Polly are unsettled. Shona, because handsome, interesting Max is the first man to catch her eye since her divorce, and Polly, because she must finally confront the terrible truth about her past.

A 1940s-themed weekend planned for the village brings the families’ connections to a head and tragic secrets to light.

Can Shona help her ghostly great-aunt to find love and forgiveness once more, while also creating her own happy ever after?

The second in the comforting, feel-good, romantic series with a dash of fantasy that started with Kindred Spirits at Harling Hall.

My review

Rowan Vale is a unique village, not only because the tourists truly believe they went back in time, but for something even more special. And that is that beside the lovely community living there, there are also many spirits wandering around. Not the evil kind, but the kind that still have relatives around and are living peacefully together with the living one.
As the new ‘owner’ of the village (yes, Callie actually is the owner of Rowan Vale), organizes a 1940’s – themed weekend, it attracts attention and visits. One visit in particular, that of Max, with reasons that go beyond the weekend, it worries Shona, who runs the local teashop. Because with his German descendance, it may unsettle her spirit great – aunt Polly. Because somehow, Max’s grandfather and Polly are connected in a way, and it may be time for Polly to confront her past, a painful one. And while Shona stands by Polly’s side, she cannot deny the attraction she starts to feel for Max. But how could she possible prefer Max above her own family?

Like I said in my review of the first book of the series, I don’t believe in ghosts. But in doubt, I don’t dismiss the possibility either. And even if I am skeptical about that fact, you know that I have fallen in love with Rowan Vale.

While I was very eager to read more about Shona and her romantic journey, it was Polly’s story that intrigued me the most. Is it because she’s a ghost and there are so many questions about her past that intrigued me? I don’t know. I just wanted to get to know her better. And of course, I wanted to know what happened to her in the 1940s. And of course I wanted to know how Max’s grandfather was linked with Polly’s passing.

But I was also intrigued by Max himself.  And how his arrival in Rowan Vale would affect not only the community, but especially Shona!

Shona is a woman that loves her life in Rowan Vale, even if it hasn’t been always sunshine and rainbows, as she saw her marriage ending  and has been picking up the pieces of her life. Luckily, she has and still can be counting on the support of Rowan Vale, the living people and all the ghosts. And that warmed my heart, to see how an unlikely, even impossible, community sticks together, is always there for each other, and even protects each other.

That protecting is also seen towards Polly… Polly who is just a great character, an amazing ghost to have around. And I felt sorry for her, reading how she died and how many question marks there still are about what actually happened. I even found it a bit of a cosy mystery, as there was the need to discover it all, but also the realization that in fact, it was too late, even for justice. But it is never too late for peace, isn’t it?

I have to admit, that when the truth came out about what happened to Polly, I was a bit flabbergasted, as I didn’t see it coming. But while it was heartbreaking, within that timesetting, i could comprehend what had taken place… And like I said, it is never too late for peace, in anyway that may occur…

Peace and also redemption in a way, as the truth came out eventually, and that names got cleared, forgiveness given and even great solutions and changes are taking place.

Changes that also involve Shona, as she gets the chance to find a romantic interest. But not only that, but with Max appearing in her life, she also realizes that she never got the chance to get over her marriage. Not that she is still in love with her ex, but with how things ended, she never had the chance to come to terms and digest how it all went.

Of course with Max’s arrival in Rowan Vale, there is also the dilemma that Shona has to face: to be united as a family, or follow Max and his quest? It is an impossible dilemma, and Shona tries her best to be there for anyone, and tries to do the right thing. But let’s be honest, no matter what Shona would do, it would be hurting one of them anyway… 

So I was happy in a way with how this lovely author came up with the perfect solution. She gave us all the answers we needed to have, and she gave us the outcome that we were all hoping for!

I absolutely loved returning to the ghostly village of Rowan Vale, getting to know new people and ghosts. If there are truly ghosts existing amongst us, i for sure hope they are all that lovely and funny as they are in this book. And if the place would truly exist, I for sure would buy a ticket to have a holiday there myself, or rather, live there myself. Because who wouldn’t love to live in such an amazing, wonderful, warm and committed community? 

Can what’s been broken, be fixed?

Synopsis

She told him to go. He never thought she meant forever.

Nine years ago, Rose and Tyler’s love burned bright. But one fight, one stubborn mistake, and it all came crashing down.
Now, Rose is finally moving on, building a future with a man who is stable, reliable, and safe.
Then Tyler walks back into her world at her sister’s wedding, standing next to another woman, and suddenly the past doesn’t feel so distant anymore.
She tries to deny it but eventually gives up. The spark between them is still there—impossible to ignore. But is it just nostalgia or something real?
Tyler isn’t the same man he was back then, and Rose sees it. He’s steadier and more confident—everything she once needed him to be.
The life she’s been building should feel right, but next to Tyler, she’s starting to question everything.
But if their love couldn’t survive the first time, why risk it now?
Especially when her boyfriend has his own reasons for keeping her close…

An emotional, angsty second-chance romance full of longing, tension, and the kind of love that never really fades.

My review

Nine years ago, the relationship between Rose and Tyler ended. That made Rose choose for now being in a relationship with a man that is stable and safe. Even if there is no talk of love yet, at least from Rose’s side, she feels that Leonard, Len, could be it. Rose knows that at her sister Lily’s wedding, Tyler will also be present, as he is best friends with the groom, Jake. Rose initially tries to avoid Tyler, but when Tyler is truly happy to see her again, she knows that avoidance is impossible. And that old feelings will resurface, and sparks will fly around. And Rose sees that Tyler has grown a lot in those nine years, and has changed for the better. However, Tyler did not come alone at the wedding…

It has been a while ago that I have read the first book about the Quinn’s sisters, so it took me a moment to get back into their stories. But I quickly understood how much I loved Lily’s story, and I found myself even overeager to read Rose’s story.

I think it’s safe to say that we all have had relationships in our past, that were significant but didn’t manage to survive the course of life. And I could see that for Rose and Tyler, their relationship, even nine years ago, was a very important one.

So it had me wondering, were they just too young for something that significant, or had something insurmountable happened, breaking the pair up?

Perhaps this book isn’t addressing the heaviest of subjects. But is that a wrong thing? Because what is does, is showing us how strong love can be, and how a broken heart can affect our future lives.

We can see with Rose, how the break – up affected her and her future choices concerning boyfriends. Anyone can see how much she has loved Tyler, and how she never wants to endure the same pain she had to go through nine years ago.

And in one way, I could understand her ‘choice’ of Len, but the more I saw of him, I have to be honest, the more red flags I saw appearing! Even if he is an Italian, I did not like him at all! 😊 Love makes blind, but perhaps wishful thinking does it too, as I could not understand how Rose does not see what is clear to everyone else.

Tyler for sure didn’t start with me liking him immediately. That is of course partly because I knew that he broke Rose’s heart all those years ago, and I felt that he had to go through a lot of groveling before even I could forgive him. And then he had the audacity to appear with a date on the wedding! (yes, I was rather angry 😊).

But that being rather angry, rather quickly disappeared. Because not only is the ‘date situation’ explained what it truly is. And how could I stay mad at him while it’s clear how truly happy he is with seeing Rose again?

And of course wisdom comes with age, and it helps that Tyler knows how wrong he has acted nine years ago. He has learned not only his lesson then, but he has also matured generally.

The reason of their initial break – up was maybe a little bit silly, as Rose just said they needed some time apart, but it makes sense when you read where they both came from, and how their own pasts affected them. The time – off was based on a row, but the emotional turmoil was long simmering. And at that age, it isn’t always easy to see things clearly…

With Rose and Tyler staying at the same resort, and spending more time together, we see how not only the past hurt still, well… hurts. But we also see how something powerful cannot just disappear.

Rose sees how Tyler has grown and matured, and that allows her to dare to be more adventurous, also in activities. She has always been playing safe, but with Tyler around, she feels safe to be the opposite.

And Tyler feels that with Rose, all the missing pieces of the puzzle have been found!

I liked reading this book, about characters that have been through a lot while growing up, how they both have their heart broken, and have been missing something in their lives. It warmed my heart to see how strong their connection still is, despite the years apart.

And I need to say it too, I liked it how this wonderful author managed to keep it ‘clean’. Because let’s not forget that Rose is in a relationship. And no matter how much and how bright the sparks fly, there is no line that has been crossed. That in a way also shows Rose’s character.

I loved this book, that was easy to read, as I just keep reading page after page after page! It swept me away and made me believe in the strength and power of love!

When visits turn your world upside down…

Synopsis

All her life, Natalie Fisher has been taught not to ask questions. Why risk uncovering uncomfortable truths, when you can stay in the safety of blissful denial?

Since taking over the family herb farm, Natalie has stuck with what she knows, rarely venturing much further than the nearby village where her invalid mother now lives. But then, one day, everything changes with the arrival of unexpected visitors.

First comes Zeb, employed by Natalie’s mother to help with the business but soon hinting at other motives. Then comes Simon with the famous band he manages, wanting to film in Natalie’s beautiful garden. The band causes chaos and the attitude of one particular member throws Natalie’s ordered life into confusion.

Over one magical summer of revelations and of uncovering secrets, Natalie starts to blossom and by the time autumn arrives she knows nothing will ever be the same again. Will she finally get an answer to the mystery of her childhood? And can she embrace the fresh start she so deserves – but which means she’ll have to take one enormous and brave leap of faith?

An uplifting novel about fresh starts, family secrets and finding love when you least expect it.

My review

Natalie, Tallie for her friends, runs on her own Drycott Herbs, a garden where she with a lot of love grows herbs, has even a pig and a few guinea pigs. Taking care of her garden takes up a lot of time, even she can rely on the help of shy Ollie. So when one day, there is a stranger at her door, claiming to be hired by Tallie’s mother to help with her business, Tallie isn’t ready to let him just that easily on her property. But Tallie realizes that free help is crazy to be refused, especially as her mother is ill, invalid and needs Tallie’s every moment of the day. So even reluctantly, she agrees that Zeb can help around. But Zeb isn’t the only visitor, as suddenly there is a request from a folklore band and their manager, to film on her grounds. While Tallie is used to a quiet and even lonely life on Drycott, she is suddenly surrounded by people. And Tallie slowly not only starts to open up more, but also learns that whatever she thought about her past, there are still many secrets to uncover. No matter how the summer will evolve for Tallie and her guests, it for sure will be an unforgettable one.

Jane Lovering has the beautiful talent of writing stories about ordinary people, yet shows us that even ordinary people are worth a story of their own.

Because no matter how normal or plain Tallie’s life seems to be, and how content Tallie seems to be, we do not have a real idea what her life truly is like, and what haunts her.

No matter how much a brave face Tallie shows towards everyone, no matter how much Tallie does go running towards her mother, it is obvious that Tallie isn’t living her life at the fullest, and that she is rather alone and lonely. The more I got to know Tallie, the more I realized that in fact I pitied her.

As we see how less she knows about her background, how much she was taught to not ask questions, the more I started to feel that there was so much to her and her story than what Tallie thinks itself. While Tallie for sure is a smart woman, she knows her stuff, it also felt that she has been keeping ‘dumb’ by her own mother and grandmother.

As being raised to not ask too many questions, it made sense to see how Tallie just got along with whatever was presented to her. Because let’s be honest, I don’t think that anyone would just agree to let Zeb stay, or let the band film on her property. Well, I know for sure that I would bombard everyone of them with questions, wanting to know every in and every out. So while perhaps at the start I would think of Tallie as a gullible person, I could see her new in this new light, and I could understand her actions just so much better.

While I was reading, there were several things that just weren’t adding up for me. My initial wariness about Zeb quickly evaporated, as I could see that he is one of the good guys in this story. And even if Tallie finds him at moments annoying, he sees more than you would think, and he for sure asks all the right questions. It is also clear that he has Tallie’s best interests at heart, even if it may be difficult for Tallie to hear it.

I was a bit afraid while reading, that Tallie would be blinded by the fame and fortune, and good looks of a member of the band. I felt in a way that it was in a way flattering for Tallie, to receive that kind of attention, and I feared that she would end up heartbroken in a way.

But the more the band and their manager appear in the book, the more a different direction their presence start to make. Although I have to admit, that the revelation of the truth didn’t completely come as a real surprise, the real depth of it all, was surprising…

This story shows us the life of a normal woman, with a passion and heart for herb. But it is also a story about a woman that in a way has been hiding herself for too long. And seeing Tallie coming out of her shelf, becoming more and more curious about not only the people on her grounds, but also about her own history, was not only sweet and heart – warming, but also empowering somehow. We see Tallie standing tall, asking the right questions, and not just being a meek, invisible presence anymore. She doesn’t just go along with things, she wants in depth information and the plain truth.

And that is the beauty of this book, it shows us that people keep growing and maturing in their lives, no matter how young or old they may be. That it is never too late to start standing up for yourself, that it is never too late to open up towards other. It is never too late to let others in, as you will never know what those people can add in your life…

The best way to mend a broken heart, is to start again in Devon…

Synopsis

Can a village pub serve up a second chance at love?

Fiona is a brilliant maitre d’ and wine-waiter, who has worked with dashing celebrity chef Reuben for years. Now they’ve fallen in love. But when he proposes, in a flash of self-doubt, she realizes she can’t go through with it.

Driven by a mixture of courage and confusion, she flees London for Brambleton – a picturesque seaside village that promises a fresh start.

Soon Fiona has a new job at the lively local pub, pouring her heart into every glass and banishing thoughts of Reuben by studying every night to become a qualified sommelier. But just when she’s started to rediscover what she wants, a new chef turns up at the pub, and throws Fiona’s careful plans into disarray…

With warmth, humour, and a touch of heartache, A Perfect Devon Pub is a gorgeous story that celebrates the joy of good food, fine wine, and close friends – and reminds us that the path to true love often begins with finding the love within ourselves.

My review

Fiona used to enjoy her life in London. She loved her job as a sommelier in a fancy restaurant, working together with the man she is dating. The only thing that is missing, is to pass the test to become an Advanced Sommelier, organised by the CMS. However, when she fails that test, not only does she start to doubt herself, but she also sees how her own boyfriend and head chef Ru, went behind her back for a Plan B. Being heartbroken, Fiona escapes to her aunt Ivy, in Devon. In Brambleton, she finds a job in the local pub, finding her passion for wine once again. But when a new chef starts at the pub, someone she knows and tried to escape, everything changes once again for Fiona. And when at that same pub, expensive wines start to disappear, Fiona feels that everything is once again at stake. With a broken heart and a reputation at risk, how will Fiona react? And is there a chance for her to put her heart out in the open again?

There are stories that make resonate with you, even if the lives of the main characters are not even remotely close to your own life.

And somehow, there was something about Fiona that I recognized in a way. She seemingly has it all in London, yet there is the sense that she needs to prove herself to others. Even if she is in a great relationship with Ruben, and they run a restaurant together, without Fiona passing the test of Advanced Sommelier, it makes her feel like a failure.

There is a lot I can say about that, how a piece of paper is not proof of anything. That success is based on your achievements, and not on passing an exam. But I would be calling the kettle black, with me being the pot… Because the mind works in a peculiar way, and no matter how much the people around you try to convince you about the opposite, when you feel a failure yourself, that is the only thought you can have…

And unfortunately, those doubts, those thoughts of insecurity is Fiona’s own downfall, as not only she decides to end things with Ru, but also needs an escape.

Despite everything she has been through, emotionally, I was happy to read how Brambleton is giving her everything she needs. And working at the pub, seeing how not only her bosses and her colleagues, but also the customers, appreciate her wine knowledge, is giving her back some of the confidence she has lost.

Growing confidence that is at risk of evaporating again, when the new chef starts. The new chef, who isn’t a stranger to Fiona at all. And I have to admit, I didn’t know what to think about the reappearance, because I didn’t exactly warm towards him. But it could also be that my own judgement was a bit clouded as it was based on how Fiona saw the events taking place.

And even the more the story evolves, his actions, or the way we see them, didn’t make me change my mind about him immediately. But even without actual proof, or with indications of otherwise, I knew that there would be more to him that what we see…

Fiona for sure is going through an emotional turmoil in this book, made only worse by her own thoughts. Yet slowly, we see her also grow, see some of that confidence return. And even with the best attempt to bring her down again, with the mystery of the disappearing expensive wine bottles, while her initial thought and action is to crawl back in a corner, we also see she isn’t that ‘weak’ person anymore that she was at the start of the book.

Slowly, veeeeeeeery slowly, we see the real Fiona emerge. Still not a Fiona without any flaws, but a stronger Fiona. A Fiona that slooooooooooowly start to understand what truly matters, how confidence doesn’t come with a piece of paper. And that confidence can make you stand taller, ready to face even your nemesis, and that you are ready to fight for yourself, against injustice.

This book is a real journey, a journey that not only Fiona has to go through, but also a journey that you as a reader go through. For sure it made me realize that sometimes self – doubt can come from unexpected places, and that they can take away what you care about the most. But that through growth, and strength, you can gain not only selflove, but also love for and from others.

A friend in need is a friend indeed, but who is the one in need?

Synopsis

A family and hotel in desperate need of help…

Maple Tree Lodge has been the home of the Jackson family for over a century. But the hotel has never been a success and, following the sudden loss of his father, architect Ben Jackson soon discovers the hotel is close to financial ruin. Ben has to make some tough decisions if the hotel is to survive and his family are to keep a roof over their heads.

With the hotel in urgent need of a renovation, Ben’s sister calls on the talents of her best friend, interior designer Lily Watson. Cash strapped Lily needs a successful project to prove to herself and her high-achieving parents that she can carve a successful career and Maple Tree Lodge sounds like just the place for Lily to showcase her talents. However, Lily’s vision for a cosy, country Cotswolds hotel is the complete opposite to what Ben has in mind for a minimalistic, modern makeover and fireworks ensue!

Can they work together to save Maple Tree Lodge?
Can Lily help Ben and his family find a future together?
And can Ben show Lily that there’s more to life than work?

As autumn at Maple Tree Lodge begins to weave its magic spell, perhaps Lily will discover somewhere to finally call home and a reason to stay …

My review

Losing a parent is a terrible event, especially when it happens so suddenly as it happened with Ben Jackson’s father. But Ben doesn’t have a lot of time to genuinely grieve over the loss of his father, as he learns that Maple Tree Lodge, which has been in the family for centuries, is in bad papers. So in order to save the family’s home, Ben needs to make some tough decisions. As an architect, Ben has clear ideas which direction they all should take, even if that clashes with his own grandfather. Luckily, in order to make all those changes, he has hired interior designer Lily Watson. Lily may be Ben’s sister Hannah’s best friend, but she is a talented yet underestimated designer. What nobody knows though, is that Lily is out of a job yet still wants to show her parents that she can have a successful career by doing something she truly loves. Once arriving at the Lodge, she has a vision that for sure would work to attract more clients, weren’t it that it clashes with Ben’s visions… So can there be found a common ground when visions are so different? And with spending so much time together, ping – ponging over ideas, Lily not only becomes a member of the family, but also has something strong with Ben. But will they save the Lodge? And what will happen when the job is done?

Starting a new series, even from an author that you know is very talented, is always a bit of a challenge… When you loved a series, like I did with the Railway Lane Series, it is always a bit sad to leave that series behind, and a bit scary to start a new one. Because will the new one live up to the previous series? Will *I* love it as much? And what must Alison Sherlock be going through, as her readers for sure have extreme high expectations…

Luckily, I fell in love with it! Not only with the story itself, but with the characters, with the setting, with just everything!

Lily and Ben couldn’t have a more different background. Where Ben grew up in a warm, close and united family, having also built important friendships while growing up, Lily grew up moving from one place to another, never able to call a place her home, or build relationships or bonds that would stand the test of time. Only when sharing a place with Hannah, Ella and Beth, that she learned and understood the importance of friendship.

As Lily has been, and still is, a bit of a loner, I could understand how much time and effort she put in her career. Not only is it something she loves doing, but it is also a way to show her parents that she can be successful in what she does. Don’t get me wrong, it is not that her parents don’t approve of her choices, but as often is the case with parents, they wanted Lily to go a different path.

I could understand her past choices and her moods, and while I liked her determination, her situations also saddened me. As Lily is truly a great person, I wanted her to be happy, surrounded by the people she loves and just have a great life and a career. Unfortunately, or rather fortunately for the storyline, also her career isn’t going in the direction she wants it to go, as she is faced with the ego and the selfish character of people…

However, even if she doesn’t have a lot of friends, those she has, are the good kind of friends. Even if she cannot meet them all the time, Hannah, Ella and Beth are the closest to her. They are so close, that when Hannah, or rather, her brother Ben, needs an interior designer, there is in fact only one option, Lily.

Talking about Ben… it is not that he is going through an easy time himself… I truly count my blessings as I still have both my parents, but I am also aware of their age progressing. But I cannot imagine what it would feel like losing one of them totally unexpected… I honestly don’t think I could endure that pain…

And my heart went out to Ben, as not only is he facing the loss of his father, but he is also facing a difficult position, that his own family is not aware of. Because it is up to him to save Maple Tree Lodge.

He knows how important the Lodge is for his family, and he wants to do whatever he can to save it, what truly is admirable. But I also felt that right from the start, even if Ben is for sure a wonderful architect, somehow he has lost his passion, his fire, his mojo to create wonderful things. Instead, he is creating thirteen in a dozen, places that not have that something special that make people love the place.

Ben obviously is the kind of guy that would walk through fire for his family, he knows what matters in life. But I also have to say that perhaps he isn’t the best of communicators, especially when it’s about selling ideas to his grandfather… The love between them is very clear, but also the fact that they have different visions are obvious to anyone.

And I have to admit, I was in Walter’s corner most of the times. I understood that Ben was doing his best to save his home, but just like Walter and Lily, I could see that going minimalistic wasn’t the right course.

I could also understand the awkward situation Lily finds herself in. Customer is king, but what if the king is wrong? So I liked her sneakiness, as she follows Ben’s instructions but is also going a little bit rogue 😊 I truly liked seeing that fire in her!

I liked reading how Ben and Lily are working together to save the Lodge. But I liked the most reading how on one hand, we see Lily finding not only a job where she can flourish, but also a family and a home where she can be herself and being accepted into the family. And on the other hand, we see Ben wanting to protect his family, bit realizing that his way isn’t the only way. And more important, we see Ben opening his eyes again, finding his fire again and finding a way to save his family’s heritage but also finding a way for his family, and especially Walter’s approval.

If we would be catalogue this story, it for sure would fit in the very – slow – burn ones. Because what happens between Lily and Ben, is growing through a joined mission, to save to Lodge. But it slowly turns into friendship, comradery, trust and support. And of course many moments with laughter, unfortunate yet hilarious accidents!

Seeing the pair of them, both broken in a way, finding a way towards not only each other, but finding a way to their passions, to healing even, was just delightful. Alison Sherlock managed to put a lot of pain in this story, but also a lot of healing, love and care in it. It felt even for me, like I was coming home, to a place I have never been, with people I didn’t know, yet it all managed to steal bits of my heart!