Are soulmates stronger than time?

Synopsis

Two souls bound together but lost in time. Until now.

AD 80 

Duro of the Iceni tribe escaped life as an enslaved gladiator and is now finally home in Britannia with one thing on his mind: vengeance. For 20 years he has sought the Roman legionary who destroyed his family. What he didn’t expect was Gisel: a fierce Germanic woman with long white-blonde hair, forced into slavery by the Romans. Hypnotised by her spirit and her beauty, Duro frees Gisel and slowly tries to win her trust as they work together to complete his quest.

Present Day

Mackenna Jackson returns to Bath with a broken heart, thanks to rockstar Blue Daniels. Luckily she can still count on Blue’s former bandmate Jonah Miller as a listening ear. But Jonah has secretly been fighting stronger feelings, drawn to Mac’s quiet confidence and gorgeous white-blonde hair. As they explore the area, memories they can’t quite explain flood them both.

Is the spark between Mac and Jonah in fact a sign of something much deeper – a love enduring through millennia – or can it all be an illusion?

My review

The time is AD 80, where Duro of the Iceni tribe finally can taste freedom again, after not only having fighting as a gladiator, but also escape the fire that killed many. Now that he is back in Britannia, he only has one mission: avenge the Roman legionary that destroyed his family many years ago. But his thirst for vengeance doesn’t take away his righteous sense. Not only does he not have the intention to take away the position of chief man of his brother, but rather wants to share is, but he also helps out a recently enslaved woman, Gisel. And the more he gets to know her, the more he hopes that she will start to feel the same as he does about her…

In present times, Mackenna sees her relationship with rockstar Blue Daniels ending after catching him in flagrant with two other women. While the paparazzi are not letting her go, ready to find any kind of gossip, she can count on the help and support of Blue’s former bandmate, Jonah, who is nothing like her ex. Slowly, Mac starts to wonder if she was perhaps too blinded by Blue, and didn’t see who would do anything for her. But while Jonah is being truly a good friend, how can she ever explain him the visions she is suddenly having, about her and Jonah but in a complete different era? And what does it mean?

Having read several books of this author, I always know that I will be captivated by the stories and will be in for a treat, even if not always the outcome is that predictable.

As I already knew, we would be having two stories for the price of one. And as I already knew, after reaching the finish, I could not possibly say which one of the two was my favourite. They are both so different from each other, and I am not only taking about them taking place in different eras, but also just generally speaking, Duro and Gisel are going through things completely different than Mac and Jonah are going through.

Of course, with the stories taking place in different eras, I also had to switch between mindset. What is normal now, wasn’t in AD 80, and obviously the other way around. So while some actions taking place in AD 80 would not be accepted now, then it was normal.

What I liked about Duro and Gisel, and not just their entwined story, but for their characters, is that they are just normal people. Well, meaning that they are not part of the ‘rich and famous’, but are a gladiator and a slave. Yes yes, I know that isn’t normal, but they are not people that have been born or gained richness and power, but they just seek for their freedom and vengeance.

Duro wasn’t a complete stranger, but it was just great to get to know this great amazing warrior better. Of course when I think about gladiators, I think about the films with the same name. But obviously being a gladiator is truly  of life and death.

Seeing him now as a free man, even not perhaps in the most  legal ways, was just great. Because I think that everyone should be a free person. And with his background, it was very understandable that he was seeking for vengeance. I cannot even try to imagine what it is like to be not only being captured, but seeing how one man and his ‘crew’ ruin your whole family…

With everything that Duro has been through, you would think that he would be a bitter, angry man. But while yes, he has these feelings, they are only directed towards one man. And when Duro isn’t fighting for vengeance, he is truly a great guy. He is caring, protective, and a man that knows what is right and what is wrong.

The way he suddenly wants to protect Gisel, a complete stranger, warmed my heart. It would have been so easy for him to just walk away when seeing this slave, but he just doesn’t.

Gisel is of course also a force of nature, not someone to mess with. She is being enslaved by a man who wants to use her as he pleases. Yet she is the kind of woman that is not afraid for fight for her freedom, she has a smart and clear mind of her own. And while she is grateful for Duro’s help, she is still wary of him. And I liked that, because she isn’t swooning over her rescuer.

What I liked about this pair, is their complicity. They don’t know each other, yet there is not only this pull between them, but they will have each other’s back no matter what. Gisel understands Duro’s wish for revenge, and as she knows how it feels, she will support him on his quest.

And seeing slowly seeing that complicity grow into more and deeper, was just great.

Of course this is a book with two stories, and I was also very eager to read Mac’s story too.

There are many prejudices towards rockstars, as they live in a world of sex, drugs and rock ‘n roll. And I was a bit disappointed to see how Blue, Mac’s boyfriend, confirmed all the clichés. But of course, with every cliché there is someone to dismiss the clichés.

And Jonah couldn’t be more perfect for the task!

He is not only truly a nice guy, but he truly cares about Mac, he listens to her, wants to help her anywhere and anyhow he can. He is being 100% Jonah, without expecting anything in return. He does everything out of the kindness in his heart, and is putting his own feelings for Mac away, because he knows that Mac isn’t in the right mindset yet for letting love back in her heart.

And Mac deserves someone like Jonah, especially after Blue… I couldn’t understand how such a genuine and real woman like Mac could have endured being with someone like Blue.

Going through a heartbreak is already difficult enough, but then being also prosecuted by the paparazzi… If you are a famous person yourself, it can be already difficult, but for normal people it must be a real nightmare!

There are reasons that make Mac and Jonah spend time together, and while they are slowly building a friendship, it’s obvious that them together is just right. And seeing an attraction grow, but also being afraid to come out too strong or too fast or not being sure that it’s reciprocated, just added extra lovely layers to this story.

Of course there has to be link between both couples. And while I perhaps am not such a believer of lovers, soulmates, finding each other over and over again, it was just fitting for this story and this author.

And yes, with Doru and Gisel going through highs and lows, I was a bit afraid of them being star – crossed lovers, only having a second chance again with them being Mac and Jonah. But even if I was a bit afraid, I found it impossible to stop reading.

Christina Courtenay wrote once again a captivating story, about hurt people, in different ways. But it is also a story about how people can find someone in perhaps unexpected ways. And it is mainly a story about how strong love can be, and that soulmates will always find a way back to each other…

Sometimes, dreams come true in just another shape as expected, right?

Synopsis

What would you wish for if you had one chance?

Esme Cassidy had two dreams growing up: to be a famous film star, and to own Drumblair Castle.

Sadly, overly cautious parents put paid to a career in front of the camera, instead encouraging her to study towards a ‘proper job’, and Lady Olivia MacBain is the current custodian of ‘her castle’.

After graduating and a year travelling, Esme returns home broken-hearted and throws herself into her new role as Lady Olivia’s PA at Drumblair Castle. It’s not quite her original dream but at least she’s living at the castle in one of the estate cottages with her housemate and friend, handsome, yet quirky, groundsman Judd.

With the news that the castle will be used as a film set for a period movie, Esme gets to witness first-hand the career she missed out on. And with her teenage crush in the starring role, she can’t believe her luck. But he wouldn’t be interested in a girl like her, surely?

My review

Esme Cassidy had two big dreams while growing up: to become a film star, and to live in Drumblair Castle. However, her parents that love her deeply, wanted her to instead of following her dream, to study for a ‘proper job’. And also her dream of being the owner of Drumblair Castle is something she will never achieve, as Lady Olivia is the righteous owner. After a sabbatical year, ending in heartbreak for Esme, she is now ready to start fresh. And Esme never expected to be having the next best thing to be the owner of Drumblair Castel, as she now is the PA of Lady Olivia. And when she has the chance to live in one of the estate cottages, it feels like truly her dream coming true. But her dreams may be even closer than expected, because the castle will be used as a film set for a period movie. And Esme cannot believe her ears when she learns that her teenage crush is in a leading role! Now not only is she seeing how her life would look like if her dream came true, but she also finds herself befriending the star of the show. Yet she knows that someone like him would never fall for a girl like her, right? And what about the growing friendship she has with her roommate?

Drumblair Castle has been the wonderful setting of some marvellous stories. And yes, the place truly stole my heart, just like each couple finding each other at the Castle. So was I ready to dive into another great story? Absolutely!

Esme is the kind of woman that I could easily relate to in so many different aspects. Haven’t we all dreamed about living in a castle?  And haven’t we all dreamed once to become a famous person? Of course, with growing up, becoming adults, we all put those ‘silly’ dreams away.

Also the fact that her parents are absolutely lovely, but also a bit overprotective, also sounded very familiar. I saw a lot of my own relationship with my parents in the relationship Esme has with her parents. The love between all three is very palpable, but there is always a moment where you need to spread your own wings and make it on your own (okay, a bit melodramatic from my side, but you understand me 😊).

Esme is also an adventurous kind of woman, something that isn’t me at all, as she took a year to discover the world on her own. And that made me feel in awe of her, just packing and leaving, not knowing who you will meet, what adventures are waiting for you.

Unfortunately, in Esme’s case that also means getting her heart broken in a terrible way. Of course we all knew that the story would start with a heartbroken Esme, but it still hurt to see how Esme gets her heart crushed while even when the time has arrived to say a temporarily goodbye, she had all the hopes to make it work.

Now, if her initial love story would end well, we wouldn’t have the delight to read this story, wouldn’t we? Her heartbreak also allows us to see her growth and resolution to find her own happiness again.

And that determination and resolution to make it, made me truly like Esme even more than I already did at the start of the book. Also the fact that Esme is an open, caring, non – judgemental person, made me like her. And let’s not forget that she also wants to do the right thing, even if it would be her paying the price for it.

Once again I was amazed by all the people living and working around Drumblair Castle. Although I shouldn’t be surprised, should I? People come in different forms and shapes, and not everyone is the same. Not everyone has the same passions, not everyone expresses themselves in the same way. But different isn’t bad at all, in my opinion it makes life more exciting too! And it was clear that Esme feels the same way. And we see this especially the way she is with her new housemate, Judd.

While they have known each other from working both at the Castle, they never had much opportunity to get to know each other better, but now with living together, they see that yes, they are different from each other, but that in many ways they are also the same, and that they understand each other, on every level.

Esme is truly feeling at home living with Judd nearby the Castle, and of course there is the fact that Esme is getting glimpses of a world that once was her dream.

And we all know that the lives of the famous isn’t only glitter and glamour, but that they are just normal people, just like you and me. We see this especially with Zach, that he isn’t the kind of person that believes he is better than a non – famous person.

It was sweet to see the interaction between Zach and Esme. There is a genuine bond between the pair of them, and I liked it how Zach sees Esme’s potential and genuinely tries to tempt her to finally pursue her old dream.

Now, I have to admit, I was definitely rooting for one contender. Not because there was one goodie and one baddie. Both contenders were amazing in their own ways, but there was just one of them that made my heart skip a beat, or beat a little bit faster 😊.

I absolutely devoured this book, as it brought me back to a wonderful place, with amazing characters. And I had the honour to get to know new, marvellous people. But in a way, the Castle worked its magic once again, as we see that perhaps childhood dreams do not always come true, but maybe they come in our adulthood in a form that we didn’t expect. But it also shows us that in order to make those dreams come true, we need to mature, to grow in order to let those dreams happen.

Lisa Hobman wrote a funny, inspiring, heart – warming story about standing on your own two feet, finding your own happiness and finding your own crew. And this for sure is a story about never stop dreaming!  

An inheritance that will uncover many secrets…

Synopsis

An unexpected gift… A home in paradise?

When Molly Adams finds out she’s inherited an apartment in Kassiopi, Corfu, she’s left thinking there must be some mistake. She doesn’t know anyone in Greece at all.

But when she arrives there’s a shock. Molly hasn’t inherited a whole apartment, it’s only 50%. But there’s more – she’s also inherited 50% of a boat, 50% of an olive tree and… 25% of a cat.

Christos Baros is coming home to Corfu for the summer. A self-made entrepreneur, owning three gyms in Athens, he has no need for half an apartment, half a boat, half an olive tree or a quarter of a cat, but he knows these things are important to his mother.

Molly and Christos’s worlds collide in a whirlwind and the irresistible charm of the Greek island draws them even closer together. But as they uncover the secrets of their shared inheritance, will they discover that sometimes, sharing what you never wanted can lead to exactly what you need?

This summer, join Molly and Christos in Corfu as they try to work out if one shared Greek gift will turn into a shared future. Perfect for fans of Sue Moorcroft and Jenny Colgan.

My review

Molly Adams cannot believe her ears (or rather eyes), when she receives a letter from Greece, informing her that she has inherited from a man she never heard of. However, when she informs her mother, the name of the man opens a box full of memories for her mother, as she has spend time on the island of Corfu, and she knows Vaggelis Vlachos very well. But Molly still doesn’t understand why it was her that inherited. So together with her mother and her best friend Siobhan, Molly heads off to Kassiopi, Corfu, to hear what she has inherited, but also, and perhaps mainly, to understand why of all people, Vaggelis put her in his will, with perhaps the strangest possible arrangements…

I love reading stories where the main character inherits unexpectedly, needs to head off to another country, to discover exactly what was written in a will of a person the main character doesn’t know at the start of the book.

But in Molly’s story, contrary to most stories, the link between her and the deceased it even more mysterious. Because she has never heard of the man, and has never been to Corfu. So why would a complete stranger put her name in his will? So many questions, so many pages to read to discover it all.

Of course there has to be a link somewhere between Molly and Vaggelis, as this is not a case of scam mails, where you supposedly inherit something from a Nigerian Prince or I don’t know what 😊.

There were several moments that I was a bit surprised. For example, I was expecting that Molly would embark to Corfu on her own. But on the other hand, of course she would take her mother and her best friend along, for the moral support. And having her mother with her, makes it also possible for Molly to finally find some answers to questions she always had, like the identity of her father.

Another surprise was discovering what she has inherited. Truly, who inherits 25% of a cat, 50% of an olive tree, 50% of a boat and 50% of an apartment? Most of the things are easily  to be divided, but a cat??? How do you divide that???

And then there is Vaggelis’s family and friends, that for sure are as surprised as Mollyis, but are also special in their own ways. I could understand with this kind of family, that Christos Baros somehow fled to Athens.

Not that his family is a bad one, but they are typical Mediterranean: loud, present, welcoming, loving, but also a bit overprotective and even masters at holding grudges. And no matter how much you love your family, sometimes too much is just that, too much.

In this story, both Molly and Christos are not people that have been sailing through life easily. Not only have they somehow both been missing something/someone in their upbringing. But the both of them are also not ready or able to let people in their hearts. Of course they love people, and have people around them that love them. But it’s the love – love that they are not ready for.

And of course, it’s the pair of them, broken in a way, that find a way to each other, clashing initially, and slowly, very very very slowly, by (sometimes literally) falling and yet getting back up, that makes their heart open up to each other, and allow themselves to feel things they have been afraid of to feel again.

Seeing Molly and Christos having these evolutions, was wonderful to read. Not only when they are together, but I also ‘blame’ it to the Corfu – air and its magic, they find the courage to be open for changes, for taking a leap of faith, to be just courageous in general once again.

The funny moments, hilarious moments for sure made me laugh, whether the characters turned them funny intentional or not.

There are also a few twists and turns in this book. And secrets are being revealed. Not all the secrets did come as a complete surprise, yet there were some moments, especially with one big reveal, that I was afraid for both Molly and Christos, that their growth would have been in vain…

I have to admit, it was a slow – paced story, perhaps a bit too slow – paced for me. And I don’t mean that I didn’t like the story, because I did. Buit that is the impatient person in me, as I want to read all the resolutions and hopefully happy end, as soon as possible. 😊

I enjoyed reading this story, about how something unexpected can change your whole life, how it can throw people on your path you normally would never meet. But this book shows us how the generosity of others can bring perhaps a much needed change in your life. How it allows you to step outside your comfort zone, to be courageous. And all this in an amazing Greek setting!

Can dream bring you the man of our dreams?

Synopsis

Forty-nine-year-old Miranda is at a crossroads.

Her children have left home, her perfectly civilised divorce is more than a decade behind her and her romances since have been lacklustre, and her career has stalled. The bright spots in her life are best friends Sophie and Kirstie, but it’s clear something has to change.

So, when she’s knocked off her bike and wakes up in hospital bruised but not broken, Miranda wonders if the universe is trying to tell her something. And when she starts to be plagued by recurring dreams featuring the same featureless man, Sophie insists it’s a sign.

Her repeating dreams offer five clues to the man’s identity so, with nothing to lose, Miranda sets off on a journey to the future she’s always longed for. Somewhere there’s a life and a love waiting for Miranda, but will she grasp it with both hands or will she let her destiny slip through her fingers even when it’s right in front of her…

An uplifting, magical story about fresh starts, best friends and soulmates. Perfect for all fans of Lucy Diamond, Beth Moran and Jill Mansell.

My review

Miranda cannot say that she is unhappy. But she also cannot say that she is living her life at the fullest. The most that she can say, is that her life is a bit boring and predictable. Her children are all grown and away, her ex – husband is still a good friend of hers but has his own family to look after. And she loves her job as a teacher, but she also knows that when there are costs to be made, it’s last in, first out. And unfortunately, she is often the last one in… After an accident, Miranda wakes up in the hospital, and realizes that she needs to take matter in own hands, and make a change. And then the dreams start… dreams where she is happily in love with a man with a Geordie accent, with a dog named Colin, but a man without a face… Her dreams have given her 5 clues, clues that make her determined to find the man of her dreams. No matter how crazy it may seem, Miranda heads off to Newcastle, in the hope to not only find the mysterious man, but also to find the inspiration and drive for a new and fresh start…

People that really know me, know that I have the strangest dreams ever. Dreaming about getting married to strangers, being pregnant, even chased by dinos, been there, done that. And while some dreams I wish they would could through (hello, all the hotties I married in them! 😊) there are more moments I am happy that dreams are just that, just dreams.

So when I started reading this book, I knew that Miranda would chase her dreams. And even if that sounded a bit crazy, I kept an open mind, because I know this author, and I had faith in her and her amazing writing skills.

And I was right, because I truly liked Miranda, and I could easily understand the turmoil she is in. She doesn’t really have any reason to complain about in her life, but things for sure could also be a lot easier. And I could understand that she feels that something is missing in her life. She doesn’t need a man in her life, especially as she just discovered that her boyfriend has been cheating on her, but there is something to say about having someone in your life. And yes, she has lovely, crazy friends, but don’t we all need sometimes someone just more?

The accident that makes her end up in the hospital is the start of her wake – up call. Because it’s there she hears the voice with the Geordie – accent for the first time. A Voice with that same accent that suddenly starts to appear in her dreams.

Initially I thought it made sense that right after the accident, she would be dreaming about the man with that voice. But reading as how even after months the dreams keep on coming, well, I was intrigued! 😊

I admired Miranda’s determination to follow her dreams (literally) and her hope to find not only the man of her dreams, but perhaps also a purpose in life. And I liked how her best friends supported her, even if they have their own doubts. That shows how deeply they care about each other, supporting each other in the crazy ideas too.

I don’t know if I would ever do what Miranda is doing in this book, as there are several moments that I for sure would have just walked away, turned around and be very very wary of the people Miranda is meeting. But that is the beauty of books, isn’t it, it can let you see what would happen…

Now, I am not going to spoil a lot in this book, by saying who Miranda meets in Newcastle, and how those meetings affect her, one way or another. But I was pleasantly surprised to see Miranda out of her comfort zone, doing things she would never imagine, and just making new friends.

There are also a few moments I wanted to shout at Miranda though, as she wasn’t making the choices I wanted her to make. But in a way, that also shows us that it isn’t always easy to understand what it is that we truly want and need… Life doesn’t always come with a manual, and life is made by trail and error. It is what we learn from our errors, and how we grow from them.

Clare Swatman wrote once again a heart – warming story, about being courageous in life, even doing something crazy once in a while. But also about friends supporting you even through the craziest ideas. And it was just a great story reading how the man of your dreams may or may not be found in… your dreams.

The ex of a friend is always off – limits, but what if…

Synopsis

Resisting temptation will test me to my limits

I’ve been in love with Skye since we were kids. But she’s off-limits, not just because I’m her boss, but she’s my best friend’s ex. And, together we made a pact as teenagers. And unbreakable bro code. Never Touch each other’s ex. Ever.

But I’m forced to spend hour after hour, day after day, with her beauty. In meetings, conference calls, emails, business trips. Every. Single. Week. It’s hideously torturous, and I shouldn’t want her the way I do. But then I think she might feel the same way…

Jacob is my boss. He’s broad, toned, dripping in ink and it turns out the man I’m falling for has been under my nose this entire time and yet I can’t have him. It’s too complicated and he won’t betray his best friend and my ex.

So we resist. Although it’s amazing how much naughtiness you can get up to without touching. But then it becomes clear this is more than just lust. This might be real. How can we ever make this work? I wanted a fairy tale, but right now I’d settle for a chance to at least kiss my prince.

My review

Jacob has always been in love with Skye, from the moment they met when they were just kids. But then Skye started dating Owen, Jacob’s best friend. And even now, that Skye is Owen’s ex, Jacob still sees her as off – limits. Not just because he is Skye’s boss, but because Jacob and his friends have a bro code. A bro code Jacob is not willing to break, not even for the love of his life. However, spending so much time together, it becomes more and more difficult to resist temptation. And Skye one evening sees Jacob in a complete different light, making her understand what she has been missing out. However, taking things further, or just starting things, is not done. But for how long is it possible to resist that attraction?

Having read the first book of this series, as a first encounter with this author, I was eager to read more about the friends with a bro pact.

I have to say, while initially I liked the thought of Skye being with Owen for so long, was in a way admirable (because how many high school sweethearts last that long?), I quickly realized that their relationship wasn’t at all a heartwarming one. To be totally honest, I didn’t like Owen at all. How can he be such an a**hole boyfriend?

So yes, I wasn’t all too sad to see the end of that relationship, because in my eyes, it wasn’t a relationship at all. Of course, I was sad for Skye, because she doesn’t deserve to be treated like that, but there are plenty of fish in the sea, aren’t they? And the perfect fish for her may be in a closer sea than she could imagine…

The first encounter we as a reader have with Jacob in this book, wasn’t exactly what I was expecting. It wasn’t him in the office, at night, with someone else on his desk, and Skye finding them in that situation. And I for sure didn’t expect that Skye herself would act in that specific way. luckily I wasn’t eating or drinking in that moment, otherwise, I would spill it all!

And yes, Jacob is too hot to handle, I could imagine him perfectly, and I know that if he were are a real person, I couldn’t resist him. But Jacob is so much more than a handsome, hot and fierce man. Because after that heated night, Skye discovers that Jacob knows her like no one else. He not only truly listens to her. He wants to give the woman that stole his heart years ago, everything she could dream of.

In a way, Jacob is a martyr. Not only did he see one of his best friends run off with the woman he loves, but he also had to be the secret boyfriend in a way, buying the right gifts, being there for Skye when she needs in fact Owen… It breaks his heart to see Skye with Owen, but he cannot imagine a life without her in it.

Jacob is the guy that would sacrifice his own happiness for the person he loves. And discovering this in the book, made me fall in love with Jacob too.

And with Skye now being single, she finally has the chance to see Jacob for the man he truly is. And reading how Skye realizes what Jacob has already done for her and is still doing, made me almost scream at her: Jump him already! 😊

Yet that is perhaps something I didn’t expect in this book, as yes, there are plenty of heated moments in it. But with Jacob not wanting to betray his best friend, gave the story a complete different direction. Because both Jacob and Skye find it more and more difficult to resist the attraction, but it’s a matter of keeping his word and doing the right thing that keeps Jacob from going further with Skye.

And that is something admirable, because not everyone would do the right thing. Jacob being himself was a bit frustrating as a reader, because I was ready for the “action”, but on the other hand, if Jacob wasn’t the Jacob he is now, I don’t know if I would love him this much.

Skye’s and Jacob’s story is also a matter of seeing behind what we always thought to see. Because ever since Skye realizes Jacob’s feelings, she sees what has always been in front of her, yet she managed to fail to see all the hints.

There is also an incident that made me gasp. I did not see that twist coming, I was fearing for the worst, as I don’t wish anyone to live through what Skye has to endure. Yet also here we see that Jacob goes lengths for his loved ones…

I devoured this book, as I even liked it even more than Lincoln’s story, that I already loved. We see how a love can start at a young age, how it can be unrequited for so long. Yet once the shades fall off, and it’s all in the open, it is just the start of something wonderful. But there is also a lot of respect and loyalty towards the people that have been there for you.

As I have been rather mean towards Owen in this review, I am very curious what journey the author will let him take. Because there is no way that both Lincoln and Jacob, that are lovely people, would be friends with such a character. And from the snippets we saw from him, it’s clear that he is a troubled young man, and I am eager to read how, when and with whom he will get his happy end…

If witches would be real, can they still haunt an entire village in the present?

Synopsis

Now: When Megan’s father gets a letter containing a secret from the past, he asks her to go to the Cornish village of St Mawgen Cove to get to the bottom of the mystery. Megan is happy to take a holiday after a challenging year but as soon as she checks into The Ship Inn something feels amiss. There are noises in the room above, the locals tell tales of smugglers and shipwrecks and she can’t escape the story of the witch who waits and watches, weeping on the top of the cliff.

1625: Susanna and her daughter Katel live a contented life, but without the protection of a husband and father, Susanna fears for Katel’s future as she blossoms into womanhood. The fishing community of St Mawgen Cove is close knit but when misfortune arrives in the cove, it’s not long before villagers are looking for someone to blame. And when talk turns to witches, Susanna knows she and Katel are no longer safe.

Can Megan bring peace to St Mawgen and to two women who have been broken-hearted for centuries?

My review

To help out her father after receiving an unexpected letter, Megan heads off to the Cornish village of St Mawgen Cove. And obviously it is nice that she can finally take a much needed holiday. The last things Megan expected, is that after checking in at the The Ship Inn, stories of the place being haunted are being told and believed in. Some rooms of the Inn even have inexplicable noises, that chase the guests away… All that is related to the tails of witches, shipwrecks and smugglers. Megan is especially intrigued by the story of Susanna and her daughter Katel, who in 1625 were living peacefully in St Mawgen Cove, even if Susanna had Katel out of wedlock and never married. And like a real good mother, Susanna worries about Katel, who is growing up to become a young woman. But with Katel befriending the wrong kind of person, and misfortune taking place in St Mawgen Cove, soon whispers and reasons for it start to arise. And when there is even talks about witchcraft, Susanna and Katel start to feel unsafe in a place that always felt like home to them…

I wouldn’t say that I believe in witchcraft, just like I wouldn’t say that I believe in ghosts or spirits. But I am not saying that they aren’t real, but for me to believe it, I need to see it with my own eyes, even if I rather not. In doubt, don’t tempt them 😊.

Of course there has been a time that people generally speaking, believed in witchcraft, especially the bad kind of witchcraft. And we all know that many women have been wrongfully accused of being a witch and even persecuted and murdered for just gossip and mean talks…

When I started to read this book, I was wondering how the author would link the story of Megan with the story of Susanna. Of course, with Megan going to St Mawgen Cove for a holiday/ favour to her father, it was rather easy to make the connection. But even if Megan is staying at The Ship Inn, it is not just a matter of making that common thread work between the both main characters.

But I loved it reading how Megan heads off to St Mawgen cove, and how her story is getting linked with Susanna’s story.

Right from the start, I liked Megan, even if we don’t share the same beliefs. I do believe that there are herbs that can help with certain ailments, but I don’t believe in crystals, the power of stones etc. But of course, everyone is free to believe what they want. And what harm can it do?

But the reason I liked Megan, is for her open mind, her kind character, her ability to read people. When she discovers what her father has been keeping a secret, it would be normal to get angry, furious even. But not Megan, she listens to her father, understands his fears and doubts, and is even willing to test the waters. She also shows a healthy dose of curiosity but also a lot of common sense.

It’s clear that she is passionate about her job, but she also clearly needs a break, away from business. Of course you can take Megan away from her job, but you can never take out the passion for the crystals and herbs out of Megan. Even when she should be relaxing, and not having a care in the world (with the exception of helping her father), she cannot just stop listening to people and offer some kind of help and advice, however she can.

While staying at the Inn, she quickly learns about the myths, and she is even the witness of a few peculiar incidents. Incidents that gave me goosebumps, as I am 100% sure that I would be running away screaming if I were in Megan’s shoes. But that is also testimony of Megan’s character, that even if she is a bit scared, she won’t let the incidents chase her away. On the contrary, she wants to discover what happened centuries ago…

Centuries ago that bring us to the world of Susanna and Katel.

Susanna is a strong woman, an independent woman, in a time it isn’t expected from women to stand on their own feet. She is a smart woman too, she has a lot of knowledge to help people. In that aspect, she looks a lot like Megan.

She is a strong woman, as she is a mother, but no man in her life. That doesn’t mean that she hasn’t loved before, otherwise Katel wouldn’t have been born, right? 😊 But Susanna is also a woman with a conscience, who does the right thing, she doesn’t cross any line, no matter what.

Susanna is also a loving mother to Katel, who honestly isn’t always the easiest of daughters. Perhaps it’s because of Katel’s age, that she is easily influenced, or other reasons, but Katel in this story takes a few turns, that worried me. Her friendships aren’t always the wisest ones.

And I could understand Susanna’s worries… because as a mother, you always want to protect your  children. And Susanna for sure wants to protect Katel from evil, not only evil friendships, but also evil gossips.

Of course we know that things won’t end well, but it is until the very last that we are able to discover who the haunted ghosts are, what the reason is for them not to have peace, and why some of them are seeking revenge.

I found this an intriguing story, absolutely, as I needed to have the answers to all my questions. But it was also a heartwarming yet also heartbreaking story. Because we see so much love in it, but also how painful that love can be. How much joy love can bring, no matter which kind of love that is, but also how it can drive people to extremities…

Even if there were aspects in this book that I don’t (want to) believe, I found myself having the need, the urgence to keep reading the stories of Megan and Susanna, two women in different times, but so alike in many ways. Women that are strong, smart and loving, but have endured pain in their lives too. Women that love unconditionally and protect their loved ones at any cost, even if that may or may not be at their own stake…

When closure turns out to be the start of something new…

Synopsis

As one door closes, another one opens…

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

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

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

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

My review

Agnes Agistini fled years ago from France, away from her abusive and even cruel husband Oscar. Now her brother – in – law Theo is calling her to inform her that Oscar has been in an accident and has passed away. As is accustomed in France, Agnes has to return to the place that holds so many memories, and not good ones. Together with her daughter Francine and granddaughter Jasmine (or Zazz, how she likes to call herself), Agnes travels to Cannes, for the reading of the Will. But Oscar, even deceased, is playing his evil tricks again. Because what is written in his Will, will shock Agnes and her family. Luckily, Agnes can count of the everlasting help from her brother – in – law Theo, who is more than willing to stand by Agnes’s side through a turmoil that resurfaces memories, not only bad ones, but also good ones.

With the chapter of Agnes’s marriage with Oscar finally and definitively closed, despite several secrets being revealed, is it finally time for Agnes to find her happiness, just like her daughter and granddaughter?

I have read several books of this author. And each and every one of those books show us stories about the past, how it affects people, but also how life can change by one event.

And I have to say, perhaps this book is my favourite one of all I have read by Jennifer Bohnet. I am not saying that I disliked the others ones, but this one had somehow a special something, a special extra thing.

It’s not uncommon that marriages aren’t always a success story. But Agnes’s marriage is something else. And it’s not because she doesn’t love Oscar at all. But also because her own parents are just not listening to her, still forcing her to get along with the marriage, even if that is the last thing on her mind.

And yes, it is easy to say as a bystander that Agnes just should grow a pair and stand up for herself. But you also have to take in account that young Agnes didn’t grow up with all the freedom we have now. And that just a few decades ago, it was expected from children to listen to their parents and don’t question them. And that ‘disobedience’ would be paid with a complete cut off from the family.

So of course my heart went out to Agnes, as she had no other option to marry that bully of a Oscar. And it broke my heart to see how Agnes had to endure all the hurt, physical and emotional, by the hand of Oscar.

Luckily, not all the Agistini’s are terrible people, as Agnes found an ally and a friend in the form of Theo. Seeing their bond, their friendship, and their love, truly warmed my heart. Theo shows both in the past and in the present, that even in one family, people can be so different from each other. Where Oscar is a brute, a bully, Theo is the kindest, warmest, most generous person possible.

Everything I have said until now, is about Agnes in the past. In the present, Agnes is free to live her life how she wants. She managed to get away from Oscar, and built a new life, together with her daughter Francine and granddaughter Zazz.

I know that rules are rules, and that Agnes, Francine and Zazz have to go to Cannes for the reading of the Will. But it is also crystal-clear that Agnes and her family are gong to be surprised/ shocked once again by Oscar.

Despite Oscar’s last nasty tricks, I found the strength all three women are showing in this book admirable.

There is obviously Agnes, who is able to definitely get rid of the scars of her husband. She is able to finally close that chapter, not carrying around the burden of Oscar anymore.

Then there is Francine, who also isn’t the saddest over the loss of her father, as she also endured Oscar’s behaviour. But it’s obvious that the girl who grew up in France for a while, grew up to become an adult that has lost her spontaneity and perhaps even has become a little bit of an overbearing mother to Zazz.

And then there is Zazz, a young woman, with a bright future laying ahead of her. She just needs to find her path, or to say more correctly, she has chosen a path that she now has to follow. She is a woman not afraid of challenges, but she is also the kind of person that does not just simply follow the mainstream, but she makes up her own mind.

There are several secrets being revealed in this book. And I can say that some surprised me but I cannot say they all came as a complete shock. In fact, I was happy with some of those secrets coming out, as the truth was a more satisfying one.

I found this book inspirational in a way. Because there are three generations of women, with their own kind of wisdoms and experience, but also their own desire and hopes for the future. Each of them has an own path to follow, a journey to grow, a journey to accept the past, to live with consequences but also to forgive, and to love again.

We see how even the greatest bully cannot break people, no matter how hard they try. And we see how hope and love are the last things to die. We see how life and love always find a way, perhaps not through the journey we expected to endure. But the hurdles we need to take to get there, only makes us stronger and makes us appreciate all the sacrifices we had to make and pains we had to endure to get the happiness and love we truly deserve.

How devastating news can bring the resolution to fix what has been wrong

Synopsis

When Mallory receives life-shattering news, she decides to use this summer to make sure her family and friends are prepared for whatever might come.

But Mallory has a challenge when it comes to her mother, Gigi. Following the loss of her husband, Gigi is lonely. So when Mallory makes a shocking discovery that shows a new side to Gigi’s relationship with her estranged sister Rose, she decides to intervene and make a last attempt to reunite them.

Returning to her mother’s quiet hometown, Mallory and her cousin Penny try to get to the bottom of a dispute that has lasted more than sixty years, involving a lost wedding dress and a heartbreaking secret. But with Rose and Gigi determined to ignore their daughters’ efforts, will Mallory be able to put her affairs in order before it’s too late?

Gorgeous and emotional new novel from Helen Rolfe, perfect for fans of Shari Low, Cathy Bramley and Lucy Diamond.

My review

Mallory and Penny may be cousins, but they feel more like sisters as they are best friends. No matter what happens in their lives, they can always count on each other. The same cannot be said of their mothers, who are actual sisters. Gigi and Rose haven’t talked for years to each other, both too proud but also too hurt to take the first step to reconciliation. But when Mallory receives life – scattering news, even if she isn’t telling her family what is going on with her, she makes it her mission to bring her mother and aunt back together. And Mallory and Penny hope that one wedding dress, important to both sisters and partially cause of the rift, can also be the one thing to bring Gigi and Rose back together. But a rift lasting for so long isn’t going to disappear that easily. So will Mallory and Penny succeed in their mission, before it’s all too late?

I have to say, generally, I love Helen Rolfe’s stories and I feel so much happiness, joy and love with each book. In this book, so don’t get me wrong, all the above feelings are present, but it was also a very bittersweet story.

And that is mainly because of Mallory being on the receiving end of devastating news. We aren’t told immediately what she has, but it’s crystal-clear that it is bad… My heart went out to her  immediately, as nobody deserves to hear such a terrible diagnose…

I could also understand why Mallory is a bit reluctant to tell her family about it. Of course they deserve to know the truth, but aren’t we all afraid for the looks of pity and sorry?  And she doesn’t want to be a burden to anyone, and she wants to make sure that her lovely daughter has someone to look after her.

It was lovely to see the bond between Mallory and Penny. Even if they are ‘just’ cousins, they have such an important relationship. Their connection goes so much deeper, and it was funny in a way to see how in the past they found each other, before even knowing they are actually related, and even closely. The friendship between Mallory and Penny shows us that sometimes, sisterhood is not only between actual sisters, but why not, between cousins and best of friends. And just as sure Mallory is, just as sure was I, that when the time would come, Penny would look after Mallory’s daughter.

Now, it may sound like a depressing story, and Mallory’s illness isn’t something to like lightly. But there is also and even mainly room in this book for hope, redemption, forgiveness and most important love. I am talking about love in all different shapes and forms. Love between cousins and friends, love between parents and their children, love between siblings.

Love that is so powerful, but also so frail at the same time, as we can see with Gigi and Rose.

I cannot imagine not speaking to my brother for even a few days, as we hear each other daily, even just by text. So reading how Gigi and Rose haven’t talked to each other for sixty years, just shocked me. But it was also obvious that something has happened all those years ago, that broke the sisters apart, as before they were very close, and sharing their dreams and hopes together.

Perhaps we see with Gigi and Rose how sometimes resentment can go just a bit too far. Yes, what happened in the past was wrong, but the sisters not being in touch ma de me wonder how different their lives would be if there would have been a reconciliation years back…

I liked to read how Mallory and Penny were so determined to bring the sisters back together. Of course it wouldn’t be an easy task, but the cousins are certain that that one wedding dress, the one that was partially cause of the rift, would also be what would bring the sisters back together.

Especially Mallory’s desire to bring her mother and aunt back together came from the strong feeling that we should spend the best of our lives with our loved ones. And that it’s never too late for forgiveness.

Despite the heavy subject and burden that Mallory is carrying, there is always that silver lightening, that ray of hope that never gets extinguished. Even with that dark cloud looming over Mallory, she gets many happy, funny, hopeful and lovely moments. And it shows us that no matter what your current status is, wonderful things can still come on your path.

Perhaps this was a different kind of story that I expected from Helen Rolfe. But that doesn’t take away that in the end, I had a big smile on my face. Because yes, initially the story starts heartbreaking, but it is show us so many beautiful things that our lives are surrounded with. We just have to see them and allow them to help us to make the best days of our lives with them…

The desire to find a parent, the discovery to find so much more

Synopsis

After an amazing year looking after Hollyhock Farm, on the beautiful island of Jersey, pregnant Lettie needs to step back from farming. The problem is, with her family overseas, there’s no one to take over.

But then help comes from two places at once. Handsome fire-fighter Joe needs to escape his small home since his mother and her new husband came to stay; he offers to help run the farm in exchange for board in one of the spare rooms. Then, adventurous newcomer Skye takes the other room, excited to try her hand at farming in such an amazing place.

But managing the farm together may be more than either of them bargained for, especially as each of them drives the other crazy, in more ways than one. Will the tension get too much for Joe and Skye, or could love bloom with the Jersey flowers this spring?

My review

Skye has never known who her father is. Allt hat she knows is that her late mother got pregnant with her after spending a season on the island of Jersey. So when she has the chance to spend some time on Hollyhock Farm, looking after the animals while owner Lettie is reaching her due date, it’s just too perfect to let this moment slip. But Skye didn’t expect to share the farm, and having someone else staying in the other spare room. And especially she didn’t expect that person to be firefighter Joe, who has his own reasons of needing some time away. Because even if he loves his mother, her reappearing on his doorstep with her latest husband and taking over Joe’s home, it’s just too much for him. While initially Skye and Joe are struggling to find a way to collaborate, soon they find their pace. And when Joe is able to help Skye discovering the identity of her father, a much deeper bond quickly grows. However, with them being on Hollyhock Farm only temporarily, where will it leave them when Lettie, Brodie and a newborn baby will return to their home?

Ooooh, the joy to return to Hollyhock Farm! Even if I am not ‘farm’ girl myself, Hollyhock for sure is something special. And once again I enjoyed every bit being here!

This time, it’s up to Skye and Joe to discover not only the beauty of Hollyhock but in a way, also its magic.

Joe isn’t a complete stranger to the loyal readers of the series. And in this book, we also get the confirmation that he truly is a good guy, wanting to help, perhaps even at his own stake. This is highlighted in the fact that he leaves his own home when his mother and her husband appear at his doorstep, wanting to stay there. This may not seem that strange at all, but I don’t know if I would be able to take it so calmy hearing how Joe’s mother just takes over. Not only does she wants the master bedroom, she also needs Joe’s money to renovate a place that isn’t even her (a.k.a. Joe’s home).

Him moving temporarily to Hollyhock Farm is also another proof of Joe’s kind character. His friends Lettie and Brodie are in need of a helping hand, and of course he would help them out. And yes, in a tiny selfish way, it also helps him too. This gives him the perfect opportunity to ‘get away’ from his mother, without actually hurting her feelings, and as he has to take some time off from his work, it all works out just perfectly.

Although… he for sure wasn’t expecting to be looking after the farm with Skye. And while it was shocking for the both of them discovering this, for us as a reader, it was hilarious to read, especially as their first encounter for sure was a heated one (literally!).

My heart went out to Skye. She is a delightful young woman, a free spirit, as she truly enjoys discovering the world. But she is also carrying baggage, as the loss of her mother is still hurting her. But not only that, the fact that most of the time Skye grew up with her Gran, wasn’t easy. Not that her Gran treated her badly, but I could understand that Skye felt like she wasn’t enough for her mother. And not knowing who her father is… so much turmoil for a young woman…

Yet that doesn’t kill her spirit, she takes everything in her stride. She is such a happy persona, is not afraid of heading of to a new adventure, and she doesn’t mind to make a whole 180, working on a farm. She is eager to learn new things, but she is also not afraid to admit when she is wrong. But she is also a determined woman, as she is on a mission and doesn’t give up easily.

Skye and Joe are different in many ways, but they are also so alike in so many ways. They come from different worlds, but their characters, the most important traits, are so alike.

Of course when staying at the same house/farm, it brings people closer together, as they are almost 24/7 together. And seeing Skye and Joe getting closer, understanding each other, having the desire to help each other, was truly just so sweet and heartwarming!

Perhaps I was expecting a little more intrigue with the mystery of Skye’s father. But in a way, it also shows how a close community and how caring everyone on the island is. So maybe, it was fitting that the mystery was a community effort.

Of course we also see Lettie and Brodie in this book again, and I was happy to read how they were doing too.

I absolutely adored reading this book, a brand new chapter in a wonderful series. Georgina Troys managed perfectly writing a compelling, but also funny, romantic story about two characters finding not only an ally with each other, but also finding themselves even more.

When low, the only way is up…

Synopsis

It’s never too late…

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

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

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

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

My review

Seven years ago, Lyra Clarkson had That Night, a night that changed her life. Now she is a wedding photographer, capturing perfect moments of couples’ special day. No matter how much she loves her job, it isn’t exactly her big dream. And the fact that her whole family disapproves of her career choices, doesn’t help her self-confidence.
Guy Walker is a former rockstar working as a wedding singer. At the height of his fame and fortune, he also that a That Night, that completely changed his life too. Even if the last thing he wants, is to attract any attention, as he is in need money, he has no other choice than singing at weddings when needed.
And it is at one of the (pre-) wedding activities that Lyra and Guy first meet, in an unexpected situation.
The more they meet during wedding season, the harder it becomes to resist the mutual attraction. But with both having several huge demons haunting them, is there a way to find happiness again and a way to realize their dreams?

Haven’t we all had at least once in our lives a crush on a famous person? Whether it is a musician, an actor or someone else, we all have been in love. And in most cases, that was just an impossible love, an unrequited love, a love from afar. And as usual, such kind of loves pass overtime.

But what would happen if years later, you would meet that same crush? However, he would not be the rockstar but more a ‘has – been’? Yet there is still something that attracts and now it appears to be mutual? What would you do?

And that is exactly what happens in this book, although there are obviously more layers and more depth to it than the situation I sketched here above…

While I liked Lyra’s character, her situation angered me. I was proud of her that she made the decision years ago to follow her own dreams. But reading how her own family, instead of supporting her and being proud of her, keep on ridiculing her and making her feel small and even less than her own sister, made my blood boil. Yes, I understand that as a parent you have a certain dream for your child. But isn’t being a parent also about letting your child chase her own dreams?

And her family’s behaviour clearly affects Lyra. No matter how amazing she truly is, no matter how much she pretends it doesn’t hurt her, it’s obvious that she blames herself for what happened to her father, and she feels like it’s her penance to make her family as happy as possible, even if she doesn’t always agree with everything they say or do…

Her passion for photography is palpable each time she takes her camera in her hands. She manages to capture perfect pictures, unexpected ones. It couldn’t be more obvious that taking pictures is what Lyra was born to do. And thus seeing how she parked her passion, it just didn’t feel right…

And then there is Guy… a man who literally had it all, yet one night destroyed it all…

His story for sure broke my heart. His past as a rockstar, and everything he has lost because of the fame and fortune still haunts him. I could understand why he doesn’t want to be recognized anymore, and be as far away as possible from everything that he once wanted…

It sounded a bit weird to me that he is doing jobs that he doesn’t want to actually do, as he needs the money. Initially that made me think in a certain direction, a direction that we have heard also in the real world, how famous people have lost all their money due additions.

But I was glad to discover that Guy isn’t that kind of rockstar, and that the money is going somewhere special, somewhere that matters to him…

Guy in so many aspects is the kind of character that you just feel truly sorry for. It is not only because he is at his lowest now, but what he has been through is devastating, and he is still carrying around the burden of it, the sense that he failed and that he still has to pay the price for him not being there when it matters.

He even believes that he is truly broken and that he doesn’t deserve to be loved, as he is not worthy. He also doesn’t want to put a burden on the woman next to him. Because he is certain that it will all just end in heartbreak…

When Lyra and Guy start bumping into each other, (pre) wedding after (pre)wedding, something is simmering between them. Yes, they initially don’t get along, and Guy is afraid that Lyra is only after the famous Guy, thus their relationship (if you can call it like that), doesn’t start that greatly.

But is was so sweet to see further along in the story how Lyra truly gets Guy, she sees behind his façade, she realizes when he needs comfort, when he needs a listening and understanding ear, and even when he just needs a supporting hug.

Of course in this book, the readers need *a lot* of patience 😊 Because it takes a while before something truly happens. Correction, when something truly significant and something that matters happens between them. Talking about a very slow burn! But with two characters, both haunted, it makes sense that they just don’t dive in a relationship, as those nasty demons need to be chased away first!

I don’t know why it is that romance stories like this one are just more. Is it because both main characters have to grow a lot in it? There has to be a lot of trail and error? The characters need to understand that they are allowed to dream big? Or that the past is in the past and they have to learn to let go?

Laura Carter wrote a beautiful story, with  several moments that made me laugh, but also several that nearly put tears in my eyes. Because no matter what happened in the past, how haunted you are, what you believe of yourself, you are always worthy of love, a second chance (you’ll get the second chance reference while you’re reading! 😊) at love.