When you are forced to take a break, but it takes you somewhere totally unexpected

Synopsis

Packed with humour, romance and a love affair with nature, Escape to the Northern Lights is a story of transformation, second chances and finding home in the most unexpected places.

High-powered lawyer Sara thought she had life figured out – until her whirlwind marriage ends in divorce, her dream promotion slips away and a burnout diagnosis forces her to take a break.

Desperate for a reset, she books a four-week spa retreat in Norway, imagining a luxurious escape. Instead, she finds herself in the rugged wilderness of Firefly Forest, knee-deep in reindeer droppings and stuck with an annoyingly bohemian – and ridiculously attractive – outdoorsman, Henrik.

What starts as a nightmare turns into a journey of self-discovery as Sara swaps designer heels for bare feet, legal briefs for tree-hugging, and fleeting flings for something far deeper…

My review

After the end of her marriage, Sara is totally focused on her job as a lawyer. Her next goal is to become partner, until she is being told that there will be no new partner. As the final drop, it causes Sara to have a burnout, with a forced break, to regroup herself again. With the insistence  of her best friends and a sudden free spot, Sara decides to book a four – week spa retreat in Norway. Because is there a better way to relax than in a luxurious retreat? However, the retreat in Firefly Forest isn’t what she thought it would be, especially as the resort she has in mind is actually in Sweden and not in Norway. So instead of the luxury she was expecting, now she finds herself in a resort where there is no (or rather very limited) connections with the internet and the workshops are totally out of Sara’s comfort zone. While initially Sara couldn’t get away from the Firefly Forest as quickly as possible, slowly she starts to understand how her own wellbeing is progressing, with tree-hugging and sauna’s with colling down in small lakes. And there is the connection with Henrik, which started on the wrong foot, but now is changing too…

You can say a lot about me, but not that I am a workaholic. Don’t get me wrong, at the office, I give all my best, but once I am at home, I “forget” about work and focus on myself. As being a single woman for a rather long time, I can also try to imagine how Sara is feeling after her divorce…

I can understand that there are people like Sara in the real world, so focused on their job, on that promotion that is looming around the corner, but are not listening to their own body. And unfortunately, that is something that appears more and more, as I know several people personally who for one reason or another have had a burnout.

And I was completely agreeing with her decision to go on a retreat, to clear her mind. As I call myself a luxury tourist, I found it not more than normal that Sara was ready for being spoiled for weeks, with all the comfort just around her. When I am on holiday, I don’t want to have one worry in the world, and just like Sara, I want to have everything at my disposal.

However, reading how Sara messes up or gets the wrong info, making her strand on a completely different kind of resort, is just hilarious for us readers! But I also admired Sara, as while waiting for a way to get out of there, she is ready to go along with all the workshops, no matter how difficult it is to have no contact with the world.

Of course she isn’t doing it at the start with the biggest joy in her heart, and yes, I was laughing at loud when things go a tiny in a wrong direction for her during the workshops. But the more she is participating, the more she gets to know not only the other customers, but also the people that run the resort, Sara starts to understand the meaning of it all.

Because at Firefly Forest, everyone has the chance to clear their mind, get closer to nature, but also find a way to see things differently, to live differently. While Sara was on each workshop, reading how the burdens are being lifted of her shoulders, somehow I also felt some burdens being lifted. Now, I am not a complete convert, but I could see how even I could benefit from a (although shortened) stay in such a lovely place.

Like I said, I laughed several times while reading, let’s not forget about Sara’s disappointment at seeing the northern lights 🙂. However, there were also many moments that not only Sara had an aha – experience, where she finally understood the meaning of several things, but I had them too. Seeing how Sara understands what truly matters in life, and what is worth fighting for.

And no, as you will read yourself, it isn’t about finding romance. Because life isn’t always about romance. But there is of course room for romance too in Sara’s journey/stay in Norway. Seeing that relationship with Henrik evolve was just the sweetest thing. While they didn’t start off with the right foot, especially as it may seem that Sara is looking down at the resort, and Henrik may be ridiculing at her at moments (seems like it, he isn’t such an ogre!). The more Sara appreciates the efforts of the resort, and how it makes her change, the more Henrik sees the real Sara, and the attraction starts to fly around every corner!

I also loved it how Sara is embracing the Norwegian way of life, and how it affects her own life and how she wants to keep that special way of life in her own life.

For me, reading this book was not only a heartwarming one, seeing how Sara finds so much on her stay in a resort that isn’t what she expected, but it was also an inspiring one, as we can see how with the right incentive, inspiration, changes can be made in life. But it was also eye – opening, because even if I am not in the situation Sara was in at the start of the book, it made me realize that what happened to Sara can happen to anyone of us. And the only way to prevent that, is to listen to  our body, to find a way to clear our mind and find out what truly brings us joy and happiness. And if in that process, there is love to be found, all the better! 🙂 

A Christmas and what it’s really about…

Synopsis

Two old friends. One snowy village. A Christmas they’ll never forget.

Ivy thought she had Christmas all wrapped up: a peaceful December in her cosy Devon cottage, just her bouncy rescue pup and kind-hearted neighbour Fred for company.

But when a stranger appears on her doorstep asking for shelter, Ivy makes a split-second decision that turns her plans upside down – and sets the whole village of Brambleton buzzing. Who is he? What is he running from? Why does Ivy feel such a powerful urge to help him?

As the snow begins to fall, and secrets start to thaw, Ivy and Fred team up to help their newfound neighbour. Soon Ivy realises that the magic of Christmas has sparked more than just opening her door to a stranger – it has given her the courage to open her heart to love.

Join Ivy in this feel-good festive escape about community, kindness, and discovering that it’s never too late to get your happy ending.

My review

Ivy has always done good, and now as a retired vicar, she enjoys the peaceful setup to Christmas, with her rescue but very active pup and he r friend and neighbour Fred. However, even in a little village like Brambleton there is always something to gossip and complain about, and Ivy is not only used to it, but she also tries to stay out of all the drama, but always keeping her heart and passion for her home. Her heart, which is always telling to never look away from someone in need. Always, even when there is a complete stranger standing on her doorstep, asking for shelter. Ivy is intrigued and wants to know more about this man who now is staying in her shed and doing the odd jobs for her. Even if not everyone is happy with the presumed arrival of strangers on a dinghy, Ivy and Fred join forces to help Omar out as much as they can. Because is helping people not what Christmas is all about? And the more Ivy is helping out, the more Ivy starts to learn to open up her heart, no matter how scary that may sound!

It is very often that when the theme of a story is Christmas, the focus is on romance, with yes of course, room and space for other things, but mainly on main characters and the road to their happily ever after.

But in this book, the focus is mainly on the real meaning of Christmas, what it truly means to show kindness, and be kind to others. Of course there is room for emotional growth too, but for me it felt like the author wants to make us understand again what Christmas is about and that doing good is always a good choice.

At the start of the book, it is clear that many years ago, Ivy went through a serious heartbreak, and that caused her to guard her heart for further disappointment. We don’t learn immediately what has happened to her. But I liked it treading how even that heartbreak didn’t cause Ivy to give up on her beliefs, and didn’t become bitter around others.

Now, I have to admit, while I also always try to be the helping hand, I don’t know if I could or would go so far as Ivy does. If there would be a stranger at my door, I would close that door as soon as possible. I would be terrified and perhaps I have read too many thrillers, but I would definitely go for the worst – case – scenario.

However, her actions in this situation, shows that she truly acts upon her beliefs. Of course she is not that gullible person, as she is still wary of who Omar truly is. But she just cannot leave Omar out there, on his own…

Not only her actions warmed my heart, but also Fred’s. He is Ivy’s best friend, and he for sure is sceptic with Omar’s stay. But he also manages to see beyond what’s on the surface, and he also takes Omar’s story and fate to heart.

It is not easy to be in a corner on your own, as Ivy and Fred do, against several people of Brambleton. While it is wrong to judge Omar in this case, I could in a way also understand these people. 

Because aren’t we all a bit scared of the new? And haven’t we all heard nasty stories? But it is so important to not judge people as all the same, because nobody is the same. And it doesn’t matter where you come from, what your religion is, or what you skin colour is, everyone deserves to be respected.

Omar’s arrival is also the start of an emotional rollercoaster – journey for Ivy. Her heart has been closed off for so long, that it is difficult for her to understand what her feelings truly are. Especially towards, well, you can take a guess, right? 😊

When I say it’s a journey, it is a real journey. Because just when she thinks she has it figured out, something happens, making her doubt everything and especially herself all over again. And that is also understandable, because if she would be wrong, it would jeopardize everything…

I found this truly a heartwarming story, showing not only the importance of kindness, but also the importance of acceptance, the importance of the truth, the importance of courage and the importance of love. All this is wrapped in a lovely Christmas story!

When defending a suspect of murder because a bigger web of lies, suspects and danger…

Synopsis

Former prosecutor Jordan Monroe thought estate law was safe. Then her mentor dies, leaving her to defend Dr. Mallory James in a double-murder case that could resurrect her career—or destroy what’s left of it.

Dr. Ian Stratton, a respected Harbor Point surgeon, and his pharmaceutical-rep mistress are dead from lethal injections. The evidence points straight to Mallory: a volatile affair, public threats, and a mountain of motive. But as Jordan builds her defense, she uncovers something bigger—a hospital drowning in secrets, cover-ups, and dangerous enemies.

Inside Harbor Medical, three shadowy suspects emerge:

• Dr. Blake Rowe — Stratton’s betrayed best friend with deadly drug knowledge

• Evelyn Grant — a disgraced tech stalking Jordan’s niece

• Sarah Rowe — Blake’s wife, lying about her access to the victim

When Grant’s obsession turns violent and surveillance evidence leaks, Jordan must protect her family while fighting manipulated witnesses, missing evidence, and a system built to bury the truth. The deeper she digs, the more she questions Mallory’s innocence—and her own role in defending her.

In a world where everyone lies, Jordan must decide how far she’ll go to win. Because the most dangerous predator… is the one you never see coming.

Perfect for fans of John Grisham, Lisa Gardner, and Melinda Leigh, Contagion of Lies delivers a relentless legal thriller where courtroom drama collides with psychological suspense—and every decision carries a cost.

My review

Jordan Monroe put her time of being a prosecutor behind her and has recently started working at estate law. Estate law is for sure a safer choice, or at least that is what she thought… Because due of loyalty her mentor has towards the family, now they are defending Dr. Mallory James, accused of a double murder. Even if Dr. James is not a likeable person at all, together with her mentor, Jordan is ready to pull her weight. Until her mentor suddenly dies in court, and it is up to Jordan to make the jury understand that there are more suspects than just Dr. James. Because Dr. Ian Stratton, the first murdered victim, for sure had a reputation of collecting women, just like he seduced the second victim, pharmaceutical rep Sophia Kane. The more Jordan is trying to build her defense, the more secrets, lies and suspects are being uncovered. And while Jordan is trying to clear her client’s name and uncover the truth, the more her own family needs protection from someone they don’t know and don’t see coming…

Beside a few speeding tickets, I have never been in touch with the law. I have also never been in a courtroom. The things I know about it, is what I have read in books or seen in movies or on tv. So I have never been faced with murder or any kind of crime, myself or involving someone around me (luckily!).

I also do not know how ‘easy’ it is to change from being a prosecutor to estate law. Yet I admired Jordan as she made that choice, and even if estate law is a safer choice, she wants to make it work, and show her worth.

When Dr. Mallory James arrives at the scene, practically demanding that the firm Jordan is working for, helps her with the incriminations she is facing, everything starts to shift, and not all in a good way.

It is for sure not easy to like Dr. James, and I could understand how the forces and the prosecutors see her as the main suspect. Not only several of her actions are disputable, but her behaviour in general is not that of a compassionate, empathic woman. So I was wondering how Jordan her team could possibly turn the cards.

But the case isn’t that straightforward as everyone is hoping, one way or another. Because the more the story evolves, the more questions are being raised, the more suspects appear, the more lies are being revealed.

And that sickened me a little bit, seeing how people can be at their ugliest. How they can use other people for their own advantages, for their own pleasure, without taking feelings, emotions and consequences in account. Even best of friends don’t matter…

In this book, we see the whole picture, even if it is just bit by bit. It start with the discovery of Dr. Ian Stratton, to the investigation, to the actual trial and all that comes in between and what Jordan and those around are going through.

I found every step interesting, even if some bits, especially at the trial were repetitive, but it also shows how it all truly happens. Things aren’t always exciting, filled with action. But we also see how the same event can be seen in a different view. How one presence at a certain time can be seen in two different views.

At the same time, I kept wondering what truly had happened, who was the real murderer and why. There are in this book so many possibilities, all believable. I did not have any idea what the real truth was, I saw suspects, suspicion, wariness and fear growing with every possibility. To be reaching the end to be just be in shock once again, and I felt even a bit unsatisfied by it. Because, without giving anything away, it felt like justice didn’t prevail completely… But that is also the reality unfortunately…

This story for sure kept me guessing, failing at seeing the truth and I found myself trying to understand what truly was taking place. And that is when you know that you are reading a good thriller, when you are trying to grasp for the truth, but you fail…

What is the enemy of your enemy?

Synopsis

A disgraced warrior…

Torn between duty and desire!

Sir Tristan must win back his honor. His orders from King Edward are simple: seek out the leader of Pwll Du Castle—the unmarried Lady Catrin—and demand she leaves. As Tristan is renowned for his lethal charm and handsome looks, how can she resist? But when the beautiful Welshwoman comes under siege from her covetous neighbor, Tristan finds himself fighting for her! Yet, is it a losing battle? For securing the castle and fulfilling his knightly duty will mean letting Catrin go…

My review

Lady Catrin is ready to protect her people of  Pwll Du Castle against everyone and everything. She is used to fight back, as her home has been under siege several times, luckily finding her victorious. But when she captures a stranger on her lands, she is certain that it is a scheme from her nemesis. What she doesn’t know, is that Sir Tristan arrived at  Pwll Du Castle on a whole different, yet similar mission. Because he has received orders from King Edward to make Lady Catrin leave as the king himself has set eyes on  Pwll Du Castle. And why would the king not use Tristan’s well – known charms? However, Catrin seems to be immune for Tristan’s charms, as she knows all too well how people look when you have the looks. And her focus is once again on protecting her people as her neighbour is once again planning a siege. But this time, Catrin can count of the help, knowledge and skills of Tristan. The more Tristan is helping out and teaching, the closer he and Catrin are getting. As they start to understand each other better than everyone else ever did, Catrin’s wariness starts to shift, just as Tristan’s resolution to keep his distance is evaporating. However, Tristan still has to follow his orders, which makes things impossible with Catrin to evolve, isn’t it?

It’s not a secret that I love reading stories involving knights, strong women and a fight here and there 😊 And I have read this series with great pleasure, falling in love with each character. Of course that also means that Tristan isn’t a complete stranger to me, yet I couldn’t wait to get to truly know him, and I just had the urgence to see behind his looks and see the real Tristan.

And yes, it helps me liking Tristan because it’s one of my favourite male names 😊.

I admired Tristan’s determination and focus. He got orders from the king, and he is adamant on being successful on his mission. A mission with which he wants to show his worth, and that he is more than just a knight with good looks. But most important, he wants a chance to show everyone that he is not the kind of person everyone believes he is, a person that is still paying the price for lies. And he wants to redeem the fact that his best friends, his brothers, are also paying the same price, by being loyal to Tristan.

It is rather clear from the start that Tristan and Catrin are at an impasse. Because they both want complete different things. Where Tristan needs to persuade Catrin to give up  Pwll Du Castle, Catrin wants to protect her home and her people at any cost.

And where I admired Tristan’s determination and focus, I liked Catrin devotion to her people.

Catrin did not have an easy upbringing, where her own father just saw her pretty face and wanted to use it for his own benefits, by wanting to marry her off to the highest bidder. Now that she is in charge, she shows that she is so much more than what everyone literally sees.

She has literally fought for her people, she is still fighting for her people, and she will never back down, no matter who is attacking her. That fierceness we see in so many occasions, but we also see how she knows when she needs to accept the offered help. Because all that matters are her people…

Of course when Catrin and Tristan first meet, they are in a fighting stance. Obviously Catrin doesn’t trust one word Tristan is saying, and she is totally immune whenever Tristan puts on his charming game.

But in a way, it was sweet to see how the pair of them, start to understand each other. Of course it doesn’t seem like a rea problem of the world, being nice looking. But with their stories, we see how people assume things, how people use their vulnerabilities for selfish purposes.

Because Catrin and Tristan have both been hurt and disappointed, they understand each other’s pain. And they find it somehow easier to open to each other with what they had to endure and are still enduring.

Obviously, also fighting together against the same enemy, not only are they spending more time together, but they are starting to develop feelings they were so against on having. Without spoiling anything, I have to admit I was a bit shocked with Tristan revelation, but at the same time, it made me respect him even more!

Now, of course the ending didn’t come as a complete surprise. But with Catrin and Tristan it  is the journey that is more important than the end result. The pair of them both start off as wary people, not truly letting anyone new getting close. But it was sweet, heartwarming, to see how walls are slowly falling apart, how trust is being built and how love is growing.

In this book we not only see this whole journey between Catrin and Tristin, but we also see how these characters are putting other’s needs before their own… Because it would be easy to just pursue your own dreams and hopes, but it is greater to put someone before yourself…

Ella Matthews absolutely captivated me with this lovely story! Tristan of course lived up to the high expectations I had for him, but he even went beyond and turned out to be a greater man than I thought. And Catrin is exactly the woman I expected her to be, ready to see behind Tristan’s façade, she is exactly the woman that Tristan needs. She is exactly the fierce, strong, independent woman I needed her to be!

I couldn’t read this book fast enough, but also I couldn’t read it slow enough!

How one disastrous viral video brings you to New York for an unforgettable Christmas

Synopsis

Welcome to New York, where the Christmas lights dazzle, the snow is falling and love is just around the corner…

Evie Green’s Christmas dream turns into a nightmare when a viral video makes her the laughing stockof the internet. But then a 5 star hotel sees a PR opportunity and invites her to New York for a Christmas she’ll remember forever.

Enter Noah Sanderson, a disgraced soccer star seeking anonymity. Forced to fake a festive romance for the cameras, sparks fly – but not the twinkling Christmas kind!

As Fifth Avenue sparkles in all its holiday glory, can The City that Never Sleeps show these two frosted hearts that, maybe, the best love stories are the ones you never see coming.

Don’t miss this cozy Christmas spin off series from the million-copy-bestselling author of the Romantic Escapes series! Each book can be read as a standalone.

Guaranteed:

Forced proximity

Grumpy sunshine

Happy ever after

Cozy comfort read

New York Christmas magic – think red velvet bows, chunky tartan-knit scarves, giant red baubles, the Rockefeller Centre Christmas Tree, Macy’s, The Nutcracker and more!

My review

Evie Green is still trying to cope over the loss of her mother after an illness. That caused that Evie went viral over a video that has been posted and turning her into a real laughing stock. All she wanted, was to fulfill her mother’s dream, instead now she is at risk of losing everything. But when the Plaza Hotel in New York sees a PR opportunity, they invite Evie over to New York and celebrate Christmas like in the movies. But what wasn’t in the plans for Evie, was to be faking a romance with Noah Sanderson, a disgraced soccer player looking for redemption and anonymity. However, sparks start to fly around them, and not the good kind of sparks. Evie truly starts to enjoy poking Noah, while Noah cannot understand how Evie can act without thinking at first. The more time they spend together though, the more Noah starts to realize that there is more about Evie than he initially thought. And Evie wants Noah to enjoy life more, and have more fun and not overthink everything. So could it be that their fake – dating for PR – reasons could change into something deeper, especially with the Christmas magic of New York. But what when they will both return back home?

There are combinations in this world that you know that will work even before it has started. For example, a hot chocolate with marshmallows in it, perfection! Another example is Julie Caplin and a Christmas story. Even before I had even read one single word of this book, I just knew I was going to love it, love the characters and love the author even more! 😊

At the start of the book, it is easy to blame Evie for being scammed. Just like those around her, I was thinking: you, of all people, should know better than falling for such a scheme! But what I couldn’t understand, yes, Evie made some serious mistakes, and she is risking it all at the moment. But why would her own friends, the people she is living with, post that video online? Why shame her in such ways? That was something I just couldn’t grasp…

On the other hand, Evie’s mistakes also show us that in fact, yes, it can happen to anyone, even to the smartest between us. And when you are in a vulnerable state, can you truly think that clearly?

Because let there be one think clear: Evie is still grieving over the loss of her mother. And she is so at loss at the moment, she has also lost her joie – de – vivre. So I was happy for her when the impossible truly seems to be happening, as the Plaza Hotel is ready to help her out. Of course for the Plaza it is great PR, but I loved it how all the people working there, from the doorman to the front office, were so kind and genuine with Evie…

It was funny to read how Evie and Noah keep crossing paths. They already had a cute/funny first encounter at the airport, before things went down. And then they are surprised when they are staying at the same hotel (of course, for us it wasn’t a big surprise 😊). That initial animosity keeps on hanging around them for a while, making it even more hilarious for us. The way Evie can taunt Noah without a that big of an effort, just wonderful!

Now, I also have to say, while Noah is easily triggered, I could understand the chip on his shoulder. He has made an error of judgement, with severe consequences, and the thought of what he has done, is still haunting him. And I could understand his reluctance on being so spontaneous as Evie is being in New York. He has a career he wants to get back on track asap, so doing the adventurous things Evie wants to do, I could understand how he isn’t jumping of joy at the idea.

And of course, I would be just terrified, like hell would need to freeze over for me to climb that building, and still… Yet seeing how Noah feels that adrenaline rush, and changes his mind, i could see how something unexpected can turn out to be something amazing.

Evie and Noah are looking very differently at life at the moment, and I could comprehend both visions. And while it saddened me reading that Evie has been holding back for so love, it was lovely to see how spending time with Noah in the city that never sleeps, is awakening something inside of her.

And the other way around, it is just the same. With seeing New York and experiencing the city through Evie’s eyes, Noah starts to see things differently. He also starts to see things differently when feelings are concerned.

Of course we know that when people are still hurting, there comes a wrong moment, when wrong things are being said, hurting other people in the process. And this story is no exception. However it shows that pain, loss, grief is also a learning curve. You cannot just get over it that easily. There are moments that put you back, letting you make mistakes.

This was a heart – warming, inspiring story, about learning to cope with loss, grief, learning from your mistakes, seeing things differently. It is also about second chances in life, about putting the past behind you. It is about getting strong again, seeing hopes for the future, by grabbing chances in life. And by finding that one person that makes you see and understand all the above.

I have never been to New York myself, but Julie Caplin made me feel like I was walking alongside Evie and Noah, seeing all the beautiful, romantic places, sprinkled with the magic of Christmas and snow. And she made me fall in love with people that have been broken yet are slowly bringing all those pieces back together. A wonderful story that I just couldn’t get enough of!

There is something not only festive in the air…

Synopsis

As snow falls over Micklewick Bay, Lark Harker is preparing for the busy festive season at her vintage clothing boutique, creating enchanting window displays of sequinned dresses and crafting handmade Christmas decorations from shimmering silk ribbon.

But her festive preparations are put on hold when Nate Wilkinson arrives at her cottage door. The owner of a local upcycling business, Nate asks for her help clearing out the long-abandoned Crayke’sCottage – a place locals whisper is cursed and haunted by its smuggling past.

Deep within the cottage’s shadowy rooms, Lark discovers two mysterious leather suitcases. The first reveals a treasure trove of 1940s clothes that sparkle with wartime romance and mystery. But the second holds a darker collection: smuggling artefacts, cryptic coded messages and a rusty iron key that gets Lark’s mind whirring. 

As Lark consults the town’s museum curator to unlock the suitcases’ secrets, she finds herself torn between growing feelings for her dear friend Nate and the inexplicable intuition that warns her away from love. When the rusty key leads to a shocking discovery in the cottage, Lark must trust her instincts and overcome her fears to finally find the greatest treasure of all…

My review

Lark Harker is ready for the festive season in her vintage clothing boutique. Winter is always a special season, with the magic of snow, ready to cover Micklewick Bay. When her best friend, and local upcycling business owner, Nate Wilkinson, asks for her help to clear out Crayke’s Cottage, an abandoned house with a lot of history, words of curses and obviously a lot of gossip. Of course Lark is more than willing to help out her friend, because who knows what treasures can be found! And when Lark finds two leather suitcases, it may seem truly seem like a treasure that has been found. Where one suitcase reveals a wonderful, uplifting story of love and romance during wartime, the other suitcase is a darker one, filled with smuggling artefacts, coded messages and more mystery. Mystery that puts Lark in turmoil. Because the more Lark is uncovering about those suitcases, the more her own intuition starts screaming at her. Screaming that she needs to stay away from love, even if her feelings for Nate may be shifting… But with more revelations coming out in the open and giving answers, could Lark find her own answers too?

Just like in the real world, Micklewick Bay is a place with lovely people, but also very different people. Having read the other books in the series, I have already discovered wonderful people, being unique in their own wonderful ways. So I was more than ready to get to know Lark and read her story!

And what a delight it was to get into Lark’s world, even if I was and perhaps still am a bit sceptical about the strength of her intuition. I won’t ever judge someone for their beliefs or gifts, and I will always give everyone a chance. But for me, even in books, it is a matter of seeing is believing. However, I was ready to be open – minded, as I had the faith and belief in this author, that not only she writes amazingly, but also that she could make me like Lark, even if I don’t agree with everything that Lark believes in.

That is also the strength of a book, of an author, even if you don’t believe in the same things, you can still feel with the main character, you can comprehend what she is going through, that you can sense her turmoil. But also that of course you can laugh alongside her, that you can have fun with her and that she can truly become a friend of yours.

Lark is such a great person, a lovely character, that even my non – believing couldn’t stop me from liking her. Because not only is she gentle, kind, loving and caring, but she is also the kind of person that doesn’t judge, only wants happiness for her loved ones. And when one of her loved ones is hurt, she wants to do everything she can to help out.

This is made so obvious the way she is with her dad. Saying that Lark has a ‘normal’ family, would be an euphemism, but even if her family is not the stereotypical family, she couldn’t love her parents any more. She sees that her dad is still heart – broken after losing his partner, and she couldn’t be happier when her lovely dad is going to stay for a while at her place. I love my own dad very much, but I don’t think we would be able to be living together anymore (you know how Italians are! 😊).

I liked reading about the friendship Lark has with Nate. They have known each other for a while now, and while It is clear that Nate wants to take things further with Lark, he respects her and her reluctance of moving forward.

His acceptance shows how not only he is someone that respects others, but it also shows his character. He doesn’t push Lark or anyone else in the direction he wants to take, but he shows understanding. It cannot be easy to be unrequited in love with someone, but it was sweet to see how too important his friendship with Lark is. Being friends with Lark is better than not having Lark in his life at all.

Of course, as a reader and a bystander, it is frustrating to read how Lark is keeping Nate at a distance in that aspect. Because just like everyone around them, you can see the potential, if only Lark wouldn’t be so scared about losing Nate. Or if she would just trust her feelings, and not give in to the negative thoughts she is having.

Now, with the ‘help’ of the two found suitcases, and the story involving the found items, we also see not only the emotional turmoil Lark is having, but also the emotional growth and strength she is having on this not always easy journey.

Despite my own thoughts about Lark’s intuition, it was amazing to read what all the items found in the suitcase meant, and what secrets they kept from the past. Each suitcase shows a different time set, a different kind of emotions. How strange the world and its people is…

This was perhaps a bit a different story than I thought it would be. There were for sure some aspects that I found not easy to grasp. But that didn’t take away that not only I appreciated the story the author has written, but that I also truly liked the characters, with their kind hearts, but also understandable, human fears. Yet the resilience they show, their growing strength is what truly stood out!  

A fairytale as an inspiration…

Synopsis

From fake betrothal…to fairytale ending?

Once upon a time, governess Hattie Potts longed for adventure, but accepting a position in Duke of Wimberley William Sutherland’s household was only the beginning…

For when the scandal surrounding his wife’s death exposes him and his daughter to Society gossip, William has an unorthodox solution to divert the unwanted attention: a pretend courtship with Hattie!

She’s transformed into the perfect lady for her dashing employer. Yet, while very real sparks are flying between them, an accident leaves William with no memory that their engagement is only a charade…

My review

Hattie Potts grew up with her best friends in an orphanage. But she always dreamed of having an adventure, to get out of her comfort zone. As she knows what it is to grow up with a mother, when she hears that the Duke of Wimberley, William Sutherland is looking for a governess for his daughter, Hattie knows that despite her lack of experience, she is the right person for the job. Because William wants to see his daughter Millie happy again, after tragedy struck their family, with the addition of Society gossip… And William wants to protect his little girl against the world and anyone looking for a story to tell. The only way he can come it with, is with the inspiration of the fairytale of Cinderella, to pretend together with Hattie, that Hattie is not Hattie the governess, but Lady Penelope Denning, with an ongoing courtship. Their charade seems to work, and even sparks start to fly between Hattie and William. But what will happen with their agreed charade when after an accident, Williams loses his mind?

As a young girl (and yes even a little bit now 😊) I have always loved reading fairytales. And while growing up, of course I have learnt that there is no Prince Charming like in those stories, but still, what a delight reading them!

And as an avid reader now, I can truly enjoy reading Regency stories. And I don’t care about the opinions of others, to look down on these kind of stories. I like reading them, spending time in a different era, with lovely characters.

With a story that combines both genres, and written by an author that I know and appreciate, how can I resist?

I started reading this story with maybe a little bit of pity for Hattie. While she is now into adulthood, it is clear that growing up hasn’t been easy for her. Well, I could comprehend that it isn’t easy for anyone growing up in an orphanage, especially during Regency.

But at the same time, I was proud of her and the kind of woman she has become. And with having her loyal friends by her side, that are more like sisters to her, was just heartwarming.

It is also clear that Hattie has a gentle and kind heart. While she lacks experience as a governess, she just feels that she is the right person for the job, as she can truly understand what Millie is going through.

Ooh my heart broke reading about Millie… She is a delightful child, but she has been traumatized by what happened to her mother.

Luckily, Millie has her father William by her side. And all that William wants, is to see his little girl happy. And seeing the lengths William goes to achieve that, shows us what a great man he is. Because he doesn’t care about his own happiness, all he wants, is to have his little girl smiling, laughing and talking again.

It isn’t that custom for a man of the Regency era to be so involved with even his own child, yet here we see that even then, there are the right kind of men already…

Deception is never a good choice, but I could understand William’s reasoning. Because once again, all he wants, is to protect his little girl. And seeing how well Millie and Hattie get along, is that white lie such a big crime?

I liked reading how not only William isn’t pressuring or forcing Hattie to agree with the scheme, but he also trusts her enough with it, and has faith in her.

If the story and the twists would stop here, we would have already an amazing story, especially with the background stories of Hattie, William and Millie and seeing the bonds grow between just all of them. But Jeanine Englert added an extra twist, elevating this story even further.

Because with William losing his memory at one point, it shifts all the cards once again…

I am not going to dig deeper into what happens next, because I think it is important to read those bits yourself. But what I am going to say, it that William’s amnesia makes us and those close to Willliam, to see the real William pre – trauma. We see a William that hasn’t lost faith in love, who isn’t carrying the burden of the tragedy and what it brought alone.

This story shows us how the past can burden our present and our future. But we also see the power of fairytales, even in the Regency era. We see how for the greater good, for the love of a child, not only brings plans or deception to fruition, but also how that common love for a tiny person, can bring two people closer. People that have their own baggage, not wanting to let love get any closer. But as we all know from fairytales, we know how that will work out, right?

Jeanine Englert wrote not just a great first book in a series, but she wrote a story with the perfect mix of different genres, making me enjoy her tale even more!

A rebound is just a small thing, right?

Synopsis

The first hookup after a long relationship is always meaningless. Right?

Still reeling from his divorce two years ago, Joe Larson sleepwalks through life until a chance encounter with Liz Jensen jolts him awake. Their sexual chemistry is undeniable, but Liz is fresh off a broken engagement and has no intention of letting anyone get close. Joe must overcome his fear of being hurt again if he is to convince Liz that love does not mean being powerless and that their rebound fling is actually their happily ever after.

My review

After her ex-fiancé breaks off the engagement with Liz Jensen, Liz wants to start all over again. Especially as she doesn’t truly know (anymore) who she is. Being an accountant for her parents’ business has always taken for granted, but what does Liz truly want? She doesn’t know that, all that she knows is that for now, she doesn’t want let anyone getting close to her again. Until one night in a bar, she meets Joe Larson. The sexual chemistry is palpable between them, but not only Liz is carrying hurt with her, also Joe is still reeling from his divorce a few years ago. However, they both realize that perhaps being each other’s rebound may be exactly what they need right now. Because rebounds are known for being meaningless, right?

I am the kind of person that cannot have just flings, one nightstands, or having some ‘action’ without any feelings involved. For me, there always has to be some kind of base before I can take things further. But that doesn’t mean I condemn people who aren’t like me, who can have all the above mentioned. Everyone has a different cup of tea, and as long as there is no hurting in the process, and they are both consenting, who am I to judge them?

What I did completely understand, both from Liz and from Joe, is that they weren’t initially looking for anything.

At the start of the book, they just want to be left in peace, enjoy their lives in any possible way, and just sit and lick their wounds.

The way they meet is rather an unusual one. I am not the kind person that would sit alone in a bar, but we see clearly that Liz is sending off many many signals of wanting to be left alone. And it angered me a little bit reading how both Liz and Joe, who is being stood up by his friend, are forced of or going sitting at the bar, or leave, so that other customers could have their table. Why shouldn’t they have their own table? They are customers too!

On the other hand, I liked Joe’s courage in this instance. While Liz is emanating so many bad vibes, he decides to take a chance, and wants to sit at her table. Not for flirting, but just to still have a table instead of going to the bar, and they can enjoy just the peace they both require.

Both Liz and Joe are feeling the sexual attraction, and those for sure fly off the pages. And yes, i was even a bit envious how well they get ‘along’, if you know what I mean 😊.

But I also felt that their story isn’t just about being each other’s rebound, but it is about their emotional journey, their growth they are having, after having met.

Liz is still coping over the choices she has to make about her own future. And it saddened me, because she has been living up to so many expectations from her own family, that now that things have fallen apart, she just doesn’t know who the real Liz is.

Perhaps going AWOL isn’t the best decision she made, but was the only option for her. And slowly, also with the help of her new BFF, we see her blossoming, we see her learning what she truly wants and needs in life. She also learns to finally stand up for herself.

Seeing that progress with her felt to me like the real message of the whole story.

The same can be said of Joe. Because his divorce may have happened two years ago, yet the betrayal clearly still hurts. And he for sure doesn’t want to be burnt by love anymore.

He doesn’t love his ex anymore, as it’s clear that something has been irrevocably broken by her behaviour. But I could also understand how it’s stronger than himself, wanting to check up on her.

I found it even refreshing to read how this magnificent specimen that Joe is, shows that it is okay to ask for help. He knows that there are aspects that he cannot solve on his own, and he needs someone to help him through this process.

It is not in a physical way Joe and Liz help each other out. But by having met, they are able to put both their pasts behind them. They are growing, maturing, evolving together. And even if there are several bumps on their journey, every bump is a moment of learning.

And that is what made me enjoy reading this book, because yes there is a lot of action (wink wink). But we see how things evolve, in a direction we desperately need, or even in a direction we weren’t ready yet to take. But sometimes the best things come unexpected, isn’t it?

To fake – date an upcoming rock star, what could possibly go wrong?

Synopsis

When a wary rock star and a cynical reporter fake date to bury a scandalous rumor, will true love be exposed as the real story?

Nick: I do my best songwriting while playing my guitar on the fire escape. Unfortunately, my in-bed-at-ten next-door neighbor, Maddie, is not a fan of my music. She clambers out on the fire escape to yell at me about making “noise.”  In bunny slippers, no less. But then she trips and falls into my arms. 

That photo of Maddie plastered all over me hits the papers, just as my dream recording company wants to sign my band. Which is a problem, because an obsessed fan is claiming that I’m her boyfriend and now the media is blowing up that I’m two-timing them both. Good-bye recording contract, unless….

Maddie: I’m supposed to cover the story. Not be the story! But when Nick begs me to fake date, I can’t resist the chance to be Nick’s girlfriend—even if fake—the opposite of my life as a city desk reporter. But my ex said I’m a terrible kisser, and there’s no way I want Mr. Hot Rock Star saying the same thing. Hence, clause 11 in our contract: There will be absolutely no physical contact.

Nick: When Maddie receives a threatening photo of the two of us with an X over her face, my desire to protect her suddenly feels all too real. It’s either a troll or her undercover investigation has been compromised. With both our careers at stake, is breaking up the only way to keep Maddie safe?

My review

Living in the same apartment block, Nick and Maddie have crossed paths several times. While there isn’t any real animosity between them, Maddie does get annoyed when Nick starts playing music when she just wants to go to bed early. And Nick cannot understand why someone would want to go to sleep that early… But of course, Nick is trying to make a career with his band, while Maddie is trying to write a story about corruption. Their lives couldn’t be more different! But when one evening, Maddie is once again berating Nick for playing in the fire escape and she trips, falling into his arms, somehow that picture is splattered just everywhere, things change. Not only because of the picture, but as there is a woman claiming to be Nick’s girlfriend. In order to clear his name, there is only one option: Maddie and Nick have to pretend to be a couple… However, Maddie isn’t all that eager, because she wants to write the story and not be the story… But how can she refuse to help Nick? Of course this has to be on her terms, and they set up a contract. A contract that will protect the both of them, but not from others, as Maddie suddenly is the target of someone with not so nice plans, and Nick suddenly becomes very protective of his neighbour…

Fake dating, a trope as old as time, isn’t it? Fake dating a rock star? Well, I was very curious to read how that would work out!

I liked it how at the start of the book, Maddie and Nick already know each other. So the whole accidental meeting each other,  is totally not necessary, and we can just start with two people that know each other.

Maddie and Nick are neighbours, and from the start, they get along. They aren’t actually friends, knocking on each other’s door all the time and spending time together. But they aren’t enemies either. 

Yes, there is the fact that Maddie is fed up with Nick playing his music on the fire escape while she wants to sleep, but beside this minor issue, there isn’t that they want the other one to move somewhere else asap.

While there is mutual respect for each other, their lives couldn’t be more different. Different, but chasing their dreams on their own. Also there, as they know what dream they are chasing, there is once again that respect.

But while Nick knows that Maddie is a good person, his past also made him very wary of journalists and reporters. And while he does trust Maddie, he cannot shake off that betrayal may be just lurking around the corner…

That doesn’t take away that there is a closer friendship growing between Nick and Maddie the moment the contract is signed. It was sweet to see how slowly, both Nick and Maddie just get to know each other better, how they become each other’s support, help, and listening board. But not only that, there is a comradery formed, an alliance. A bond that make them want to help with each quest.

And with one of the quests being Maddie’s story, we get such a better insight of Maddie’s character too. She is the kind of person that is persistent, she  knows that there is a story to be uncovered, and she is ready to go lengths to get to the core of it. Even if it may risk her own safety…

With her, we also see how toxic a workspace can be, as she has to fight off not only her own colleague, but even people with a higher position.

And right there, we see the kindness, the protectiveness that there is in Nick. Because he is more worried about Maddie and what is happening to her, because of the story she is chasing, but also the position he has brought her in.

I loved reading how slowly Maddie and Nick are realizing that perfect what they are faking, isn’t so fake at all. But I also found it so recognizable that there is some fear of not only admitting the shift of their feelings, but also acting upon them.

As a bystander it is always easy to tell someone to not be scared and do what your heart tells you to do. But when you are at the centre of the story, it’s a whole different thing, isn’t it? And I could understand the both of them…

And while there is fear, and their belief to stick to the contract and no more, there is, like I said before, this bond between them. An undeniable thing that just keeps on growing, expanding into something beautiful.

In this book we see how different worlds can find each other, literally next door. And how there is this understanding between ‘mismatched’ people, a need of helping each other out. But we also see how these ‘mismatched’ people can be the right people to grow and let go of the past. And we see how these ‘mismatched’ people are the right people to be the right kind of inspiration and how they can let us become the best version of ourselves.

I laughed while reading, I swooned while reading, I even got a bit frustrated by reading, and I fell in love with not just the main characters of this wonderful story, but the whole premise of it!