Tizi’s Book Review

When the need of a fresh start brings you to Napoli…

Synopsis

A tender and funny novel that combines the best of Scottish and Italian culture with the joys of female friendship and a cast of characters reminiscent of Jenny Colgan and Sophie Kinsella.

When Lucy’s childhood sweetheart stands her up on their wedding day, leaving her alone on a plane eloping to the tropical location of his choosing, their dream – now feeling like just her dream – of their bairn filled future disappears in a heartbeat (or the time it takes for her to listen to the rambling drunken voicemail he left calling off the wedding).

In Naples, Elena is recently widowed and struggling to keep her husband’s family’s beloved and centuries old mozzarella factory afloat, whilst running her language school and bringing up their son. At risk of losing both businesses- and adding even more disruption to their life – she advertises a job and hopes for the best.

The stars seem to align and Elena and Lucy, each suffering from a very different sort of loss and loneliness, set about trying to lift the struggling business and each other.

A charming, tender and funny novel about the power of female friendships, the importance of letting go and the joys of eating pasta!

My review

After years being together with Stewart, Lucy is ready for the next step. But when their private wedding on location ends up with Lucy being stood up, she feels that her whole world is falling apart. All her dreams for the future have fallen into pieces, and the life she used to live, isn’t that inspiring at all anymore. So when she reads an advertisement for a teaching job in Napoli, Italy, she feels like this is a sign. Once arrived in Napoli, Lucy is staying with Elena and her son Stefano. Elena used to have big dreams for the family’s mozzarella factory, and her own dream of running a language school. But being widowed way too early, Elena cannot manage it all on her own. So she is more than happy with the arrival of Lucy. Especially as, even if different, the women share the sense of loss. And even if they don’t know it yet, them being together may be the cure to heal their pain and sense of loneliness. Because there is nothing that (new) friendship and female comradery and unity cannot heal…

I am easy to convince to read a book. Just give me a great blurb, and I am sold. Or make it even easier for yourself, and put in the title something that I feel connected to, and I am already hooked. So of course, with Napoli in the title, I just had to read this book!

Although I have to admit that at the start of the book, the first few chapters, I got very angry. Not at Lucy, as she hasn’t done anything wrong at all. But I got angry at Stewart. I just don’t understand why people cannot be honest about their feelings; no matter how difficult it must be. And to make it even worse, he doesn’t even have the guts to tell it to Lucy, but he decides to let do it with a voicemail, while Lucy is already flying over to their wedding location.

The devastation Lucy is going through is so palpable. I could understand the pain she is enduring, because she has been betrayed in the most terrible way, from the person she loves and trusts the most.

So despite her pain, I was happy to see how suddenly there is this female compassion, where complete strangers, from the manager to the housekeeping, are doing all the possible to help Lucy. This for sure shows that there are kind and compassionate people all over the world, even when you least expect it to find them.

Being an Italian myself, I couldn’t agree more with Lucy starting afresh in Napoli, as there is no better place on earth than Italy! 😊  But I could also comprehend her trepidation, as it cannot be easy to move to another country, not speaking fluently the language. And let’s be honest, also not knowing where she will end up…

But there couldn’t be a more fitting place for Lucy to ‘end up’ with Elena and her son Stefano. Not that Lucy suddenly finds paradise and is in place where nothing is going wrong. Yet it is the place that Lucy needs to be, and the place that needs Lucy too.

Because even if their lives are so different, Lucy understands that in a way, Elena and she are feeling the same pain, the same hurt, the same loneliness and even the same fears.

My heart broke a second time while getting to know Elena and sweet sweet Stefano better. She and her late husband Giancarlo had so many plans for the future, not doubting for one instance that they wouldn’t succeed.

Unfortunately, Elena and Stefano have to face a life without their beloved husband and father. And their loss shows us how unfair life can be. Or rather, how selfish and money – grabbing some people can be…

It may seem strange, but I liked it to see how the author took her time to show us the reality of life. Italy is known for all the beauties it has, but there are also many ugly bits in it. And it is important to not forget about those bits, and to fight against it.

But I just loved reading how these two women, Lucy and Elena, find each other in their pain. As Elena doesn’t want to give up her dream of running the language school, she brings into her life the person she needs the most.

It was just so heartwarming seeing these two women form a friendship, how with being together and living together, they are able to grieve, to finally see things brightly again and are able to look forward positively.

Of course there is room for romance in this book, but while it shows Lucy that love is still around, it didn’t feel for me the main message of the book. Because this book is all about friendship, determination, not giving up, and believe that good things will come your way. And that may start with moving to Napoli, meet amazing people, get a taste of mozzarella (di bufala of course😊) and will make you open a teashop in a country addicted to coffee!

Can family heal the wounds?

Synopsis

Sometimes facing your fears can be the start of something wonderful

Fiona Gilchrist has spent years running from her demons. But deciding to take back control, she packs up her life and makes the trip to Provence to be reunited with her sisters. And almost instantly, there is something about La Maisonette which is healing and Fi knows she’s ready for a chance to start again.

When an opportunity arises to work alongside vet Christophe Brabant, Fi, although hesitant cannot resist saying yes. Because immersing herself in what she loves is the ultimate distraction. And while Christophe may be utterly charming, he’s also committed to his job so Fi knows she’s in safe hands. Yet, what starts as a blossoming friendship quickly turns to something deeper. Because for the first time in her life, Fi begins to feel relaxed and completely at ease. Could it be that Christophe’s heart is more like hers than she realises? Or has she allowed him to penetrate the boundaries she always considered unbreachable?

Coming to France took a leap of faith, but in doing so it has allowed these two damaged souls a chance to find each other while Provence works its magic…

My review

Of all the Gilchrist sisters, Fiona is the one that keeps her distance the most. After what happened to her years ago, Fi is still trying to escape her demons, failing at it. So when something happens, Fi needs to escape. And for once, what she truly needs, is to be with her sisters. Because Fi needs to take back control of her life. And she hopes that her stay in La Maisonette in Provence will give her not only the peace she is seeking for, but also the warm embrace and love from her loved one. But Fi quickly realizes that opening up after so many years isn’t easy, even if she can rely on her sisters’ support through every step. And no matter what or who they are, Fi is always wary of men. Until she meets Christophe Brabant, best friend of the family. And when there are opportunities to work with Christophe, over a shared passion over animals, Fi cannot resist the chance to work with him, and obviously with the animals. When friendship starts to bloom between them, and the knowledge that they both never will open their hearts to anyone again, brings them closer than they could ever imagine. But will their friendship evolve to more, despite them both being so closed – up? And will Fi finally chase all her demons away?

The Gilchrist sisters are the kind of family that slowly grew on me. They haven’t had an easy time, and it saddened me to read how the family grew apart over the years. And in the first two books, I started to appreciate the siblings, even if I have to admit that Fiona, due to her clear absence, wasn’t my favourite sister.

But with this book, I have to admit I was very prejudiced. Because while in the previous books it may seem that Fi isn’t just a family person, in this book it becomes so very obvious that even family doesn’t even know which demons are haunting us…

The more I got to know Fiona, the more I could relate to her. Now, I have not been through what she has been through years ago. But her lack in self-confidence, was something I recognized easily. And while in my case, it grew on me, it saddened me to read how Fiona is still that insecure young woman, whose scars of the past didn’t help her at all.

It also broke my heart reading how what happened to her, tore her apart from her family. Instead of confiding in them, she made the choice to distance herself from them, making her feel even more alone and lonely…

But when needs must, Fi has no other option to return to her home. Her home, being her family, as La Maisonette isn’t her real home.

Throughout the book, I could feel Fi’s pain, doubts, insecurities and longing for a change. I admired her to finally find the courage of coming clean about what she has endured in the past. And it warmed my heart to see how the Gilchrists not only embrace her, surround her with love, but also know that there are times that Fi needs to be on her own. Because healing doesn’t just come overnight, it is a whole process to go through. A journey that Fi has started but hasn’t reached the finish yet…

Fi for sure is going through a lot, as there are several demons that are still haunting her. But I loved reading how she finds solace and comfort with animals, especially the donkeys. With them, Fi finds a peace that she cannot find with even the gentlest of people. We see not only how much Fi cares about the animals, but also how animals can sense people’s characters. Fi loves animals unconditionally and that love is reciprocated.

Of course I also need to talk about Christophe…

Because his presence and his character is also part of Fi’s healing process. But also because he also needs to go though some healing himself.

He has been hurt by love before, and that made him adamant on falling in that trap again. But despite his determination to not let love back in, you can see from everything he does or says, what a kind person he truly is. Not only the way he interacts with people, but the way he is with animals too, just swoon – worthy!

And then I am not talking about the way he talks! As a polyglot myself, I found the way he mixes up all the languages he speaks so endearing!

There are moments where Fi for sure looks like a deer in headlights, scared of just everything, even mundane things like picking up a baby. But that shows us the depth of how she feels and thinks about herself… And seeing how Christophe seems to grasp all that, that Fi needs to be treated gently, to allow her real character, her lovely character to emerge, was just so sweet. And seeing their friendship evolve, just wow…  

This third book of the series is perhaps the most touching one. Yes, the focus is on Fi, but there is also some family resolution in it, what I didn’t expect to be taking place here.

We see here how different siblings can be from each other, which makes sense as they are characters of their own. But we also see how events of the past can tear us away from the people we love the most. And how difficult it can be to open up about what happened to us. However, we also see the strength of a family, how when in time of need, you can rely on always having a support group.

This was a lovely, heart – warming but also heart – breaking story to read. But it shows us that even the people that has been broken the most, can start to see the rays of sun again, see that what happened to them isn’t their fault, and that with being surrounded by family and friends, believe that they are worthy of love and being loved, no matter how scary that may feel.

Can you prove that love is real?

Synopsis

It’s the most wonderful time of the year…isn’t it?

Emily Anderson adores romance—both in books and in real life (though her own love life is more ‘tragic subplot’ than ‘happily-ever-after’). As an audiobook narrator, she spends her days bringing love stories to life, convinced that one day, her own perfect romance will come true.

Jude Cavendish, thinks romance is a fairy tale for fools. A crime author with a serious case of writer’s block, he’s horrified when his publisher asks him to add a love story to his latest novel. He knows murders, mysteries, and mayhem—not grand gestures and stolen kisses.

Desperate for help, Jude reluctantly turns to Emily, whose sunshine personality is the complete opposite of his grumpy cynicism. She’s determined to show him that love is more than just fiction, and he’s determined to prove her wrong. But as Christmas magic sparkles over the Cornish coast, Jude starts to wonder… what if Emily’s right?

Could the festive season bring them both the plot twist they never saw coming?

My review

Emily Anderson loves romance, both in real life and in books. Even if there is no romance in her own life, she truly believes that love is real, just look at her parents! After a lucky encounter a few years ago, now she also has the job of her dreams, as an audiobook narrator, with her own small fanbase. Surrounded by romance, she also truly believes that one day, she will experience that great romance story of her own. But her new task is for sure an unexpected one, as she is hired by famous crime author Jude Cavendish. With a publisher in common, Jude needs Emily’s help, as he has been requested to add some romance in his latest book. If only Jude were to believe that love is real… Emily hopes that she is able to prove Jude that love is real, and not just a matter of a transaction. And with Christmas looming around the corner, and leaving London for the Corish Coast for the festivities, will Emily show Jude the magic of love and perhaps even experience it herself?

It’s no secret that I am a great fan of Jo Bartlett. She has the amazing talent of writing heartfelt stories, whether it is about Cornish midwives, or families facing great tragedies. No matter what the story is about, she always manages to capture my attention and just doesn’t let go until I have reached the end.

Another amazing thing about Jo is her ability for her readers to not only sympathize with the main characters, but as a reader, you also recognize yourself in one or even several characters. And that for sure was something I had with Emily.

I am a real romantic at heart, believing in that great amazing thing that love is. However, just like Emily, I haven’t been that lucky yet in finding my perfect match. But that doesn’t stop me from believing that it exist.

And just like Emily, I can be swept away in books where the most heart touching love stories are happening.

But those are not the only similarities I had with Emily. Emily is content with her current life at the start of the book, but she isn’t living her life at the fullest. She has a job, but just like for so many people amongst us, it isn’t her actual dream job.

I liked to read, even if it is pure fictional, how one trip truly changes Emily’s life for the better. Emily not only encounters her favourite author, but that same encounter also gives her career a complete twist, making of her an audiobook narrator.

Oh, and this all happens rather early on the book! So can you imagine my curiosity of what else would be happening? 😊

Emily is such a sunny character, how can you not like her? And that all despite she has been through. Not that she had an unhappy upbringing, but it wasn’t easy with a mother with health problems. And yet we see Emily and her family stick together, go to every high and every low together, united.

Jude couldn’t be more different than Emily. And the more I got to know him, the more my heart ached for him. His life shows us how events from the past can scar us, how events, incidents can become demons that haunt us for years. And how, unfortunately for Jude, how a loss can affect the relationship between a father and a son…

So I couldn’t blame him for not believing in any kind of love, as he has been hurt just too often by people that claimed or should have loved him…

And I could understand why Jude isn’t writing anything romantic in his books. Even when I am reading books from crime authors, I am also hoping there will be lighter moments filled with, why not, some love.

Emily and Jude being chalk and cheese would be an understatement. They get along, it’s not that they cannot stand each other, but they just see things so differently.

It for sure seems like a mission impossible, making Jude believe that love is real. I could feel his bitterness while he is explaining that he sees love just as a part of a transaction. And while it saddened me (or rather, broke my heart), I could understand him, and where he came from.

And how heart – warming was it to see Emily’s attempt to make Jude see how wonderful love can be. We all know how beautiful it can be, but in a unique way, Emily also shows Jude *all* the aspects of love, not just the romantic way of it.

Jo Bartlett shows us in this beautiful story that love for sure works in mysterious ways. And seeing Jude melting bit by bit, starting to believe in this weird thing that love is, yet never losing the essence of what Jude makes Jude, just great. And this with an Emily who never loses her belief and makes it even her mission to ‘convert’ Jude…

And what a nice addition to see some old friends of mine again! That for sure added an extra smile on my face!

I absolutely devoured this heart – warming story! Jo Bartlett manages to capture the essence of what love is in this wonderful book, and through Emily’s character she is able to make everyone believe in love (again). And I am for sure curious to see the kind of book Jude has finally written! 😊

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

Synopsis

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

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

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

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

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

My review

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Love doesn’t come easy…

Synopsis

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

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

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

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

My review

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Synopsis

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About the author

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

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

The cover!

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

Synopsis

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

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

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

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

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

My review

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

We ain’t afraid of no ghost

Synopsis

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

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

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

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

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

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

My review

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

When a community truly comes together

Synopsis

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

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

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

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

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

Praise for Kimberley Adams taken from Amazon reviews:

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

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

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

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

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

My review

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Can what’s been broken, be fixed?

Synopsis

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

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

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

My review

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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