Even a driving cake shop can be life – altering

Synopsis

Ever the entrepreneur, Ellie is planning to bring cakes to the people with her Travelling Cake Van! But as she’s ‘expecting’ to make a rather more personal delivery of her own very soon, will Katja be the one to get behind the wheel of this fabulously mouth-watering journey into the countryside?

My review

Katja never expected that her visiting her boyfriend in New York would end up in her being single. Luckily, she can count on Ellie and her great ideas involving the Little Duck Pond Café. Why waste some good cake when it can still bring joy to people? With a route to follow, Katja is ready to put smiles on people’s faces. And this turns out to be the right distraction for Katja, as it brings not only new people in her life, but also perspective and new goals. But she also always keeps in mind that Ellie, not only her boss but also her friend, is about to have the biggest delivery ever, and should be looking more after herself…

Sometimes there are series, written ones or on the (big) screen, that just keep dragging on, that at one point they have been sucked out of every spark, fire, love and delight, they once had and that fans made fall in love with them initially.

So with a series on its 39th book out, you would think that the expiration date has long been reached and that the time has come to just let it go, and start something new, right? Well, let me reassure you, for this series, the expiration day is by far not reached yet!

From the previous books in the series, I knew that Katja was preparing to go and visit her boyfriend in New York. And you don’t need to have studied rocket science to know that even before she has arrived there, that things won’t go as she expected.

And it saddened me, reading how she would go across the world to support ‘her man’, to only be betrayed like that. But on the other hand, I also knew that she could count on the support of her friends at the Little Duck Pond Café. And once again, they did not disappoint, especially Ellie.

What I liked about this chapter, and just the series in its whole, is that it isn’t just about Katje getting over her broken heart or even believe in love again, but that there is a bigger picture.

And there are several  bigger pictures in this stories, not all equally life – altering but still… I liked it how Ellie makes it her mission somehow to go against waist, and uses her Travelling Cake Van to sell cakes at a discount, and even brings it closer to the people that cannot enjoy the wonders of the Little Duck Pond Café.

But there is also power of unity and encouragement. As Katja and Ellie are travelling around, they meet new people, with all their own stories to tell. And with characters like Katja, their lives will all change. And also Katja’s life will change, with all these new people in her own life.

Yes, there may be a love interest somewhere in this book, and yes, seeing those developments put a smile on my face, even with the ups and downs with it. But the focus of this book isn’t about Katja finding someone new in that area. But it is about Katja finding herself, her confidence, and new people in general.

We see her but also those around her evolve, put demons to rest, to take a leap of faith, but also being someone people turn to, whether for listening or for a word of advice. There is a lot of reciprocity between Katje and those around her, showing us the real meaning of friendship.

I absolutely devoured this new instalment, feeling sorry when the end was reached. But at the same time, while reading I was just so happy, to not only finally having Katja in the spotlight, but seeing all my friends once again and seeing how they are doing.

Rosie Green once again wrote a wonderful story, never disappointing in any way. I just wanted to keep reading, prepared for the pain of reaching the end way too quickly!

For love (of the game)…

Synopsis

WICKET MAIDEN is a groundbreaking romantic comedy set in the world of women’s cricket.

It’s the start of a new season for professional women’s cricket team The Scorpions.

Acclaimed batter Ellie, 32, is returning to the game after a long injury, determined to regain her form and her place in the England squad. This is her last chance, and she won’t let anything stand in her way.

Cricket fan Adam, 34, an artist and photographer, has followed Ellie and the team through highs and lows. He’s drawn to her talent, athleticism and public persona – but is content to be a face in the crowd, cheering her on. He’d never date a famous person, anyway.

When events on and off the pitch bring Ellie and Adam together, friendship blossoms, and their careers initially soar. Yet, with romance in the air, Ellie loses focus, jeopardising her dream.

What’s more important to them both – love, or cricket?

A share of the book’s royalties will be donated to pertinent clubs and organisations who champion the development of grassroots, girls’ and women’s cricket.

The story echoes the film “Notting Hill” – the challenge of love between a ‘star’ and a ‘normal person’.

The book touches on the good and bad sides of fame, and shines a light on women’s cricket – the mental and physical challenges, pressure of relentless media attention, community outreach, fan engagement, and the finite nature of the career of professional athletes. Above this, it is, of course, a love story.

The book is a non-spicy romance, and also includes neurodiversity and epilepsy representation.

My review

Ellie is happy to return on the field after an injury, as a batter for The Scorpions, a cricket team. At the age of 32, it’s now or never to gain a spot in the England squad, but Ellie is determined to claim her spot.
Not only Ellie, but the whole team, can count on the support of many fans, one of them being Adam, an artist and a photographer. Whenever he can, he is in the stadium to cheer for The Scorpions, and especially Ellie.
Adam never expected that the day would come that he would be more than just a face in the crowd. Even when friendship blooms between him and Ellie, he knows that as Ellie is a public person, and a wonderful person, she is out of his league. But is he truly punching above his weight? Because for sure sparks fly between Ellie and Adam, while their own careers also are flying higher than ever!

I am always ready to read stories where there is one famous character, in whatever area, and one character that is just an average Joe. Well, average Joe… Adam is an upcoming artist and a known photographer. But compared to Ellie, he is just a small fish.

Now, I have to admit, I do not know *anything* about cricket… so whenever Ellie was playing, and there was something happening in the game, I just couldn’t follow… But that is on me, as cricket is not something I truly follow as a sport. Also, in Belgium that isn’t a famous sport at all…

Luckily, there was a lot of room for relation development, that made up for the moments that I was frowning as I just couldn’t understand what was going on 😊.

From the start, I admired Ellie. Not only is she great as a batter, but she is also determined to not let her just healed injury hold her back. She shows love for the game in everything she does. But not only that, she is just a great person. She treats her fans and supporters kindly, and even the smallest of the fans can always rely on her for a kind word or action.

But it is also clear that there is something haunting her. She is carrying a guilt around, a guilt that is not justified. But it is also that same guilt that wants her to make right choices, to make up for when she couldn’t. I know this sounds all very ominous, but in fact it is just heartbreaking and when the time is right, it will all make sense to you.

And there is also the fact that Ellie hasn’t been the luckiest in the love area… she has faced one severe heartbreak, one that is still difficult to not hold any grudges, and her latest relationship was not truly what to expect from a relationship. So it is wise for Ellie for now to focus on the job, on the game, and pursue her Big Dream.

But we all know that is not how love or life works, right? 🙂

Adam is the perfect boyfriend material, even if he isn’t flawless. Yet who needs perfection, if you can have Adam? Yes, of course he could be more self-confident and believe in his artist talents. But that made him only more real and more likeable in my eyes.

Also the way he truly admires and supports Ellie is testament to his character. He is also the kind of person to make sure that nobody, in this case Ellie, feels awkward. He is a fan of Ellie, and he follows her, which could be easily seen as something ‘stalkerish’, so it is nice of him, wanting to show that his interest is innocent and genuine.

It was lovely to see how the relationship between Ellie and Adam slowly is changing. They start as idol – fan, then they become acquaintances, to friends and then… During these shifts, how sweet was it to see that there is a genuine care between the pair, and that they have each other’s back. Their banter was also hilarious, as it’s clear they can have a great laugh not only with but also at each other. Ellie and Adam can just be themselves and that is truly something priceless. There is absolutely no judgement from neither side, just acceptance and understanding.

Even if the world of cricket is something I don’t understand completely, I understand friendship, and love. And this book is filled with the latter. Not only between Ellie and Adam alone, but all over the book. That made this book something i truly enjoyed reading. Because we see how being surrounded by the right kind of people, can bring out the best version of yourself, and make you grow not only in confidence, but also character wise.  And we see in this book, that anything can happen, even what you only dared to dream about!

Check out this marvellous cover!

Synopsis

Life doesn’t always go to plan . . .

After a messy breakup and a nightmare boss, Kate swaps the chaos of London for the calm of Starry Cove—the charming seaside village she loved as a child. She arrives hoping for peace and a fresh start. But life has other plans: Kate soon discovers she’s going to be a mother.

As she navigates small-town life (and morning sickness), Kate finds friendship in the ‘coastal girls’—a warm, welcoming group who help her land a job with Piers, the reclusive owner of the local manor. He’s guarded, grumpy and impossible to read… but there’s more to him than meets the eye.

As feelings grow and secrets slowly come to light, Kate must decide if s he’s ready to open her heart again—and whether Starry Cove could be the home she’s been searching for all along.

Pre-order link

https://amzn.eu/d/3Mm4HLx

About the author

Nancy Barone grew up in Canada, but at the age of 12 her family moved to Italy. Catapulted into a world where her only contact with the English language was her old Judy Blume books, Nancy became an avid reader and a die-hard romantic. Nancy stayed in Italy and, despite being surrounded by handsome Italian men, she married an even more handsome Brit. They now live in Sicily where she teaches English.

Nancy is a member of the RWA and a keen supporter of the Women’s Fiction Festival at Matera where she meets up once a year with writing friends from all over the globe.

The cover

And now a treat: an extract!

Synopsis

Edinburgh, 1936. People are disappearing. The police are clueless. Can Finlay MacBeth track down the perpetrator before someone else goes missing?

Haunted by his recent past, Professor Finlay MacBeth returns to his home town to take up a new post at the university. Within hours, his reputation for solving the occasional murder prompts the police to ask for his help. Four men—seemingly unconnected—have vanished into thin air. MacBeth must find whatever it is that links the men before the kidnapper strikes again. 

But the police aren’t the only ones interested in MacBeth’s activities, and the amateur sleuth soon discovers that finding the missing men is the least of his problems…

In this thriller series set in Edinburgh, Metropolis is book #1 in the Finlay MacBeth Thriller series.

Extract

Now settled in his new accommodation, Finlay MacBeth wakes up during the night. We are given a hint of whatever it is from his past that haunts him, as well as his concerns about the mysterious man in the trench coat…

The need to relieve himself is what wakes Finlay MacBeth. At least, he thinks that’s what it is. Opening his eyes, he stares at the ceiling, its ornate plasterwork conjuring weird shapes in the gloom. It takes him a moment to recall where he is. But before he becomes fully aware, he senses movement. Twisting his head, he stares into the corner of the room. A dark figure crouches there, watching. 

Finlay tenses, balls his fingers into fists, ready to fight. The figure in the corner seems to be waiting for something. Waiting for his intended victim to move, perhaps? For him to fall asleep again? For a moment, nothing happens, then the shape shudders, sliding sideways. 

MacBeth grabs the object on his bedside table and leaps out of bed. ‘Don’t fucking move.’

The curtains waft in the breeze, allowing a shaft of moonlight to illuminate the corner of the room. The mysterious figure is nothing more than MacBeth’s own suitcases, the spare blankets piled on top creating a humped shape. MacBeth laughs at himself and sits back on the bed, replacing the Webley revolver on the cabinet. The remnants of a dream—the usual one—no doubt contributed to the idea of someone lurking in the shadows. And it’s ridiculous, he reminds himself. It’s not as if that person is even alive. 

Switching on the bedside lamp, he pulls out a drawer and slides the revolver inside, concealing it under a book. Best if his landlady doesn’t stumble across the weapon. Not if he wants a quiet life. Pulling on a dressing gown to cover his nakedness, he steps out into the passage and walks down to the bathroom on the lower floor. 

Back in bed, MacBeth wonders about the man in the trench coat. He curses himself for not taking more care. Probably the appearance of the boy distracted from his usual practice of observing everyone and everything. If Trench Coat is tailing him—has possibly followed him all the way from London—then MacBeth will have to deal with it. What really bothers him is not knowing the man’s identity. It’s possible the events in Muswell Hill did not go unnoticed, that someone—maybe Trench Coat—witnessed part of what occurred. MacBeth had been careful, but you can never be one hundred percent certain. 

A door opens on the floor below, causing him to sit up straight. Footsteps along the landing, then another door. He relaxes. Just Mrs Blackie going for a wee. He smiles at the thought of her sitting on the pot, nightie hitched up, shivering in the cold. A minute later, he hears the gurgling of the flush, then more footsteps and a door closing. Then silence. 

Switching off the bedside lamp, he rolls over onto his side, the image of Mrs Blackie still in his head. It’s odd she didn’t mention a husband, while at the same time making it clear she is to be known as Mrs Blackie. Perhaps her old man took a bullet in the last war. She can’t be much past forty, he thinks, but might’ve been a young bride. The image of her on the toilet is still there. He forces himself to push it away, but all that happens is that the picture changes to one where Mrs Blackie is still sitting on the toilet but is now stark naked. The idea of such a thing prompts a stirring in MacBeth’s loins.

He lets out a groan. ‘Oh, Christ…’

When running away is no longer an option…

Synopsis

Melanie knows she’s been running away…

For the last seven years Mel has been hiding; from life, from her friends and from those who love her the most – her family. But being at home in her beloved Lake District has been far too painful for Mel to contemplate. Because seven years ago, Mel lost everything and she’s never been able to banish the dark clouds that follow her.

But maybe there really is no place like home?

When Mel returns to Willowdale for a family event, she has no intention of staying. But surrounded by her family she begins to realise just how much she’s been missing and also, how much healing she still needs to do.

Starting a dream job at Willowdale Hall, going on walks with Emma and her funny alpacas and reconnecting with those she loves, Mel slowly begins to see chinks of light and a more hopeful and happier future ahead.

And as Mel begins to feel stronger, she also feels brave enough to face the most painful part of leaving home…the one man she has always loved. With his help, can she finally banish the dark clouds forever and see the sunshine after the rain?

My review

Seven years ago, Mel’s perfect life fell totally apart. As she couldn’t cope with living at the Lake district, she made the move to not only run away from her pain, but also to hide from everyone and everything. She has never returned to Willowdale, as it was just too painful. But the latest family event is just too impossible to let pass by. So Mel returns to the place that once used to be her home, but with the resolution to make it back to Newcastle – upon – Tyne  as soon as possible. However, Mel realizes how much she has been missing out in the seven years away. With scoring the job of her dreams at Willowdale Hall, could this be Mel’s chance to heal her broken heart and see colour back in her life? Or are some wounds too deep to be healed?

My dearest Jessica,

Yes, I am writing this review letter – wise, because I think you need to understand what this book did to me.

Before you start panicking, yes, tears were shed, but I was able to contain myself a little bit. For the darkest moments, I took a breath, counted to ten, and found the courage to read on without falling short on tissues.

How can you each time such lovely characters to life, even if they have been or are still going through heel? Because you made my heart break for Mel, even if you kept it long time a secret what happened to her. But it obvious that something terrible happened to her, and while running away isn’t the answer or the solution, it is something Mel needed to do all those years ago.

You know, Jessica, it truly saddened me to read how Mel for seven years has tried to move on, but in fact failed at it. She tried to have a new start, but in fact she ahs been standing still for seven years. She never made her flat a home, even her relationship wasn’t a real relationship. And her reluctance to return to Willowdale may have been understandable, but for us readers, it is also clear that returning home is what she needs to do, to face her demons, to come to terms what happened.

Obviously returning to Willowdale, which isn’t ‘home’ yet for Mel, isn’t an easy task for Mel, as there is a lot unfinished business and lots of heartbreak for her. It broke my heart a little bit more to read how difficult Mel is finding it to adapt to be back in Willowdale. Not only there is a bit of a strained relationship with her lovely parents, but it is still difficult for her to completely open up, and to face those awful demons. And coming face to face with the person that knows what she has felt and is still feeling, is just too heartful for her.

I loved what you did there Jessica, with Mel. Because at the start of the story, Mel’s life is rather dark. And Mel shows her darkness by her clothes. Initially her clothes are dark, black, brown, and just not alive. And as we see Mel coming back alive, there is also a slow return of colours. And not only in her clothes, but in her life in general.

Of course, retuning to Willowdale and everything going smoothly from the first moment, that is just impossible. Nobody gets over a heartbreak that easily, even if already seven years have passed since that moment. And a pain that has been held for so long, it cannot be released in an instant. And Jessica, you showed us perfectly how it’s a process filled with many ups and downs. Sometimes it’s one step forward, two steps back.

While it was great to see those steps forward, those steps back made me almost feel a physical pain. And there is one event that made me fear that Mel would fall back into a downward spiral. But the contrary happened, as she is the best person to understand what is needed, how to comfort and how to help in the best way. And I believe that the Mel at the start of the book wouldn’t be able to be that rock she is when this takes place.

Those steps forward that Mel is having, are obviously partly made possible by all the people Mel meets in Willowdale. Jessica, you have written wonderful stories before, and I was delighted how you manage each time to make some characters return, adding extra to the story, but without ever taking the spotlight. The returning characters complement the story, showing once again how wonderful people can be!

I have to admit one thing though, my dearest Jessica… I thought that there would be more romance in the book. But the more the book progressed, the more I realized that this wasn’t that kind of love story. This book is purely Mel’s story, and her attempt to find colour back in her life. She needs to find love again, but not in a romantic way. She needs to find love for herself again, she needs to find and accept love around her again.

And how can you love someone else if you cannot love yourself? How can you move on if there is so much guilt you are carrying around? How can you think about the present and the future, if the past still has so many questions for you?

You just keep on amazing me, Jessica. Once again you wrote a marvellous story, a captivating story. A story about a broken main character, on her journey to healing. A journey that isn’t easy, not in fiction and not in reality. Life isn’t a walk in the park, and terrible, heartbreaking things can happen to anyone, unexpectedly. And there is no guidebook to get you over grief, pain and guilt. But with one step at the time, there is the right place and time to get colour back in your life…

I already love the cover, cannot wait to read the story!

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.

Pre-order Links

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F8MQM8VP

https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0F8MQM8VP

Publication Date: 26th June 2025

About the author

Kim writes heartwarming romantic comedies which are set in glorious Northumberland on the iconic Holy Island of Lindisfarne. Kim is an award-winning writer and her books are amongst the highest rated romcoms on Amazon. Kim’s beautiful book covers are bespoke artwork by a Northumbrian artist and a representation of a scene within the book!

The cover

A fresh start after a surprising inheritance!

Synopsis

A new start by the sea…

For Jo Jenkins, life has always been about putting others first. But with her children grown and her ex-husband as rotten as ever, she knows it’s time to put herself at the heart of the story. So, when she inherits a beautiful beachside cottage in Cornwall, she grabs the chance to start over.

The crumbling old cottage needs a little love, but so does Jo. And with the help of her new friends – a kind-hearted jeweller, a no-nonsense businesswoman, and a local Jack of all trades with a past of his own – Jo begins to rebuild more than just bricks and mortar.

But tucked away inside the cottage is a secret that could change everything. As the waves roll in and the sea air clears her mind, Jo must decide if she’s ready to let go of the past. Will she finally learn to embrace the life she truly deserves?

My review

Jo Jenkins never expected to inherit the beachside cottage from her ex’s late aunt. But after discovering the betrayal by her now ex and her former best friend, the move to Cornwall could be the fresh start Jo truly needs. As there is no husband to take in account, and their two daughters have started a life on their own, Jo takes off to the cottage she fell in love with many years ago. However, the cottage is in dire need of renovations and lots of love. Luckily, Jo is making quickly new friends, ready to help her out. And slowly Jo starts to live again, building a life on her own. Even if the past and especially her ex won’t let her be, and that a secret is ready to be revealed that will shock Jo. But her new friends, and especially Seamus, is ready to stand by her side!

Is there ever a world, a part of a multiverse where I won’t be loving Kim Nash’s books? I truly believe that is never ever going to happen!

Right from the start, I felt sorry for Jo and was hoping for her that many goods things would come her way. Because what has happened to her, is terrible. Not only did her husband cheat on her, but he also had the audacity to do it with her best friend. So Jo lost both her husband and her best friend at the same time, talking about betrayals!

And I have to just say it, I didn’t like how Jo did and still does a lot for her daughters, yet they don’t do anything in return, no support, or loving words in any way. I found them just so selfish in every way!

But I was happy to read how Jo is getting her chance at a fresh start. And it was heartwarming to see how she was on the receiving end of an inheritance of her ex’s aunt, of all the people! Finally some kind of justice for Jo 😊

The cottage she inherits is for sure something dream worthy, even if there is so much work to it too. But I could clearly feel that the work in the cottage would, all those improvements, would also improve Jo’s life. Some TLC for the cottage, lots of TLC for Jo.

Because almost from the moment that Jo arrives at her new home, she is not only making new acquaintances, but new friends. Friends that somehow she didn’t have before, as her married life was all about raising her daughters and being more a trophy wife than having a fulfilling life.

Now she has a new chance, and with her open character, she makes new friends with ease. Friends that genuinely care about her, want to help her, want to support her through every difficulty. And while it may seem selfish of them, as how ready they are to rent out a place from the cottage, at the same time, why wouldn’t they? As they need a new home, and Jo needs to make an income somehow. For me, it is just a win – win situation.

Of course there is also Jo meeting Seamus. Right from the first meeting, they get along like a house on fire! Their banter, their teasing was right my kind of humour, but you will realize very quickly yourself just how along these two lovely characters get along.

At the start of the book, I pitied Jo. But the more the story evolved, the stronger Jo becomes, the more her confidence grows and more we get to see her wonderful persona. She truly evolves in this book, and even when things get complicated, flabbergasting and even awkward, instead of falling into pieces, she learns to stand tall and be the bigger person.

Obviously there are also plenty of funny moments, especially when misunderstandings start to arise. But the most important is just how heartwarming this whole story was. Because we see how things suddenly all can change for the better, how a curveball from Life and Fate can give you a fresh start that you needed so much. And how that same curveball can bring the right kind of people on your path, the people that you need.

Kim Nash made me dream away with her latest book. Not only did she give us the perfect setting with a beautiful cottage. But she gave us wonderful characters, that are impossible not to love, that are showing us resilience and strength, but also tons and tons of love!  

Today it’s extract time!

Synopsis

This, the fourth and final selection of stories, completes the Seasonal Paths series created by a consortium of best-selling and award-winning North Atlantic writers.

In this anthology you will encounter unintentioned consequences, love in later life, the pull of family dynamics, misguided assumptions and murderous soulmates.

These yarns will take you to new worlds, into a ghostly abyss, across an ocean in pursuit of truth and into the darkness of ancient beliefs.

Make yourself comfortable and surrender to these multi-styled tales, all linked by the theme of summer, within the covers of this book. You will be surprised and entertained by what you find.

Extract

Flying can be dangerous. But maybe not for the reason you think!

Fakes on a Plane

By Gianetta Murray

I’VE ALWAYS LOVED THAT MOMENT when you settle into your seat on the plane at the start of your vacation and suddenly realize nothing else matters.

Not your job. Not the house. And certainly not those unrelenting requests from friends and family to help them plan/move/care for the things that matter to them. Such requests are a part of life when you’re a bachelor with—according to my loved ones—few demands on your time.

But there is absolutely nothing you can do about any of it once you’re on that plane, which is why I’m so happy right now.

For one thing, I decided to throw budgetary caution to the wind (literally, I suppose, in this case) and fly Business class. As soon as the plane takes off, I will use those lovely little buttons on the side of my seat to recline and stretch out my quite-long legs, propping my feet on the built-in footstool at the end of my “pod”. Then the impeccably trained flight attendant will bring me a drink. I checked the entertainment listing before boarding and I’m looking forward to watching several  classic action and films as I imbibe my complimentary champagne.

On top of all that, thanks to a generous Christmas bonus, I’m fulfilling a lifelong desire to visit Greece, the purported cradle of civilization. After a short stop in Athens, I’ll be spending a blissful week in Santorini where I can relax on my whitewashed hotel balcony, soaking up sunshine and the sound of the surf. I’ve even snagged a  window seat in the last row for the flight over. The pod next to me seems to be empty, so I have high hopes this will be a quiet, enjoyable journey.

What more could anyone want, I ask you?

I hear a bit of a kerfuffle going on at the front of the plane and when I look up I realize my last thought was premature. A stunningly gorgeous woman is trying to drag a hot-pink suitcase down the aisle as the flight attendant follows, annoyance making her voice carry as she insists there is no room in the overhead bins. After a short, tense standoff, the beauty throws up her perfectly manicured hands and surrenders the luggage to have it taken to the hold.

I check my watch and note she has certainly left her arrival until the very last moment. The plane is due to take off in ten minutes, and I can hear grumbling from the other passengers as they worry the plane may be delayed. I glance sideways to see this tardy goddess enter the pod next to mine and I do not feel a second of disappointment at the loss of my solitude because my new neighbor is even more attractive close up: straight, silky dark hair, a smooth, lightly tanned complexion, and a slim figure negligibly encased in a lime-green halter top and purple sweats. As she turns and bends down to place her handbag in the drawer provided, I see the word ‘Juicy’ emblazoned on the butt in silver studs. I can’t help wondering if the studs are uncomfortable to sit on as she finishes loading her carry-on into the crammed overhead locker and sinks gracefully into her seat.

She suddenly looks through the open divider space between the pods to find me watching her, and I’m struck by the deep violet of her eyes. She’s practically a modern-day Elizabeth Taylor, I think. The resemblance is enhanced by what appears to be real diamond earrings and a rather large solitaire diamond necklace. Our two seats face each other and I relish the thought of being able to enjoy that view over the next twelve hours.

Gazing back at me she smiles, showing just the right amount of predictably white, even teeth, except for one slightly crooked molar. This tiny imperfection only adds to her allure.

“Hi, I’m Charity,” she says. “It looks like we’re seatmates for the next few hours.”

Her voice is lower than I expected it to be—not that it matters at  this point, all other expectations having been thoroughly exceeded. I do a quick check to ensure the absence of an Adam’s apple (I’ve been fooled before) and am reassured to see everything about her says she’s all woman. I also think I can hear a subtle Mediterranean accent.

I suddenly realize I’ve been staring and mentally slap myself out of my daze. “Uh, hello. I’m Frank. Pleased to meet you.”

Is it truly the end?

Synopsis

Spouses Without Benefits – how can you move on without moving out?

Freya and Joe’s marriage has fizzled its way to the end, but for financial reasons, and to support their daughter in her final year of school, they decide they need to keep living together for six months.

They know it won’t be easy, but for Joe at least, it provides creative rewards: a struggling sitcom writer, he has found his new project. Why not write about his own situation? And the network loves it.

There is just one problem – Freya doesn’t know.

Can Freya and Joe navigate the six months together and might they find out something new about their relationship?

A relatable second-chance romcom perfect for fans of Mike Gayle and Beth O’Leary.

My review

Freya and Joe have been married for many years. Unfortunately, things aren’t anymore the same as they were at the beginning, with a separation the only solution. But for financial reasons, and not wanting to disrupt the last year of school of their daughter, they decide to keep living together for those last six months.
With strict rules and agreements made, Freya and Joe are trying to live according to the new arrangements. Easier said than done of course, because this is new territory for everyone. And how can Joe tell Freya that he finally found new inspiration for a new sitcom, but that it is all based on his experiences with the separation? And what will happen when those six months are over?

As this was my first encounter with this author, I didn’t really know what to expect from this book. So in my mind, I had expected more action, more nasty and sneaky backstabbing, with actual heavy fights.

Yet I positively surprised when realization dawned that this isn’t the kind of story where a separated couple want to see each other’s blood, but are trying to keep things amicable, and want to do their best to be honest, fair and respectful towards each other. I think that many people in a likewise situation could learn from reading this book.

Obviously this isn’t a story where the new changes are accepted easily, and everything just goes smoothly. No, because both Freya and Joe need to adapt to this changed interaction, this new situation for them. And it is not without trial and error that they move forward.

What I liked about this couple, is that it isn’t that there was this big incident that means the end of their marriage. But it’s just a matter that perhaps the spark has gone, and they both have changed over the years. They still deeply care about each other, but it is not that their marriage is filled with excitement and fireworks.

And while it is perhaps for the wrong reasons that they are both staying in their home of the coming six months, beside the financial matters, it was also rather sweet to read how they put their daughter first, and don’t become selfish.

In a way, I pitied Joe in this story. Because he is somehow in a downward spiral since his last sitcom wasn’t the success he expected. Since then, he clearly lacks confidence and inspiration. Also the fact that he is very closed off about expressing his emotions and feelings, makes his struggles not only even more painful, but also very realistic. Because let’s be honest, men used to grow up with learning not to take about such ‘stuff’…

And unfortunately, him not speaking out, also creates awkward situations with Freya, especially when he starts to use his own experiences as inspiration. Of course we all know beforehand that Freya won’t be all that thrilled with Joe’s latest writings…

Not only Joe is struggling with all the adaptations, also Freya is. So this isn’t absolutely a case of a bad person vs. a good person. It is all circumstantial, and in a way even necessary.

Freya has and always will be supporting Joe, and she never has and never will blame him for his struggles, work-related and otherwise.  But I can understand her when she feels that there should be more in a marriage to survive than the marriage she is in now.

While of course a separation is unfortunate, it also gives Freya the chance to find herself again. During their marriage, it is clear that during the whole process, Freya lost herself a bit. Ans seeing this Freya who is freer, was just amazing to see.

That doesn’t mean of course that she just does as she pleases, as she still takes Joe’s feelings in account, and she keeps wondering if despite the missing sparks, a separation is the right solution.

This is truly a journey for both Joe and Freya, trying to figure out where their future lays. There are several downs, but also so many ‘ups’ as they both try to do their best to make it all go as smoothly as possible. And that is truly inspiring, to keep the bigger picture in mind, no matter what happens.

I found this a great book to read, as it gives you not only an idea what it is to go through a separation, but also the emotional turmoil the couple can find themselves in. Doing the right thing isn’t always easy, because what is the right thing to do truly? 

As a first encounter with this author, it for sure was a great one! The struggles and the pain felt so real, but also the happier moments kept putting a smile on my face! What looked as a painful story at the start, turned into a great, sweet, even funny, heartwarming story!

Returning to a city full of memories and secrets

Synopsis

A return to Venice. A friendship rekindled. A time for romance.

Natalie’s landed the opportunity of a lifetime hosting television show ‘Luxe Life Swap’, but she’s dreading going back to Venice, scene of the school trip that changed her life. The beauty of the floating city and handsome watch restorer Eraldo begin to win her over, however. But then glamorous contestant Cate arrives, the girl who was once plain, ordinary Cathy – the ex-best friend Natalie blames for the night that wrecked her life.

Cate’s swapping The Old Vicarage for two weeks in a Venetian palazzo, hoping she might pluck up the courage to go on the quest she’s been putting off for more than twenty years. Forced to spend time with Natalie, Cate hopes to rebuild their friendship – until Natalie makes a shocking accusation against Cate’s husband. Cate needs to find out the truth but how can she expect Phil to be honest when she’s keeping secrets of her own?

My review

Natalie doesn’t know how to feel with the opportunity of a life time, as a host of television show Luxe Life Swap. Of course she cannot let the moment pass, but this chance also means returning to Venice, the place where one night her life got wrecked during a school trip. To make things even worse, the couple that is swapping places, is married couple Cate and Phil. For Cate it may the perfect chance to finally get some answers. But having to stay in Venice with Natalie, was not what Cate expected… And when Natalie reveals her secret, that somehow involves Cate’s husband Phil, will this holiday be one to remember kindly, or one to be totally forgotten?

When I started this book, it was a bit with mixed feelings. Not because I wasn’t sure about the story, but more because of the setting. Of course as an Italian Belgian/ Belgian Italian, I just need to read a book that takes place in Italy. However… Venice is just not a city that stole my heart. I have been there a few times, and yes, I absolutely appreciate the history and the art. But I absolutely do not like the too touristy things. Finding a peaceful, quiet place there is difficult, and you are everyone surrounded by tourists (yes, it is hypocritical of me, as I was a tourist myself there). But I don’t like overcrowded places…

But my love for Italy won over my dislike of Venice, so there I was, reading a story that blew me away.

Right from the start it is clear that there is a connection between Natalie and Cate. Something happened many moons ago, that made the girls drift apart, and even tear up their close friendship. And I couldn’t wait to discover what it was, and what actually happened during that fatal school trip. Yet I had to show a lot of patience (which I do not have! 😊) and keep on reading to have finally have the secrets revealed.

Of course the first meeting as adults is an awkward one between Natalie and Cate, as both women do not know how to behave or act when together. It is clear that there are several unfinished business between them, yet it is also clear that it isn’t just one incident that needs to be talked about.

Having a friendship disrupted many years ago, it cannot be easy to make amends. Grudges only grow over the years, and mistakes and errors cannot be just forgiven and forgotten, no matter how beautiful and sentimental that may sound.

Yet Natalie and Cate are both mature enough now to at least attempt to move on. And slowly, they become friends again, and that easiness that there once was, resurfaces again. Of course not everything goes smoothly, and there needs to be done a lot of restoring, but beneath the surface, the essence of their friendship is still there.

With the both of them being in Venice, Natalie and Cate have both the chance to face their demons, to face their fears. The demons are very different for each character, and each character grows the further the book evolves. 

Because this isn’t only a book that focusses on the bad things that happened in the past. But it is also a story filled with possibilities, chances and redemption.

Redemption for several characters, not only Natalie and Cate, but also for Phil. Redemption in a way to make all the wrong – doings right again, even if that is not always possible. But redemption can also come in the form of putting the past behind you, and look forward and no longer behind. Putting the past behind you can bring a brighter future on your path, bring new and old people back on your path.

I truly enjoyed reading this book, showing the power and the hold that the past can have on you. But also and mainly how liberating it can be to let go of it, and how unburdening it can be to forgive and look forward!