When Christmas is about dreams, but not shared ones…
Synopsis
You are invited to spend CHRISTMAS ON THE CLOSE where each of the neighbours are celebrating in their own special way.
Veronica and Owen are looking forward to a happy Christmas on The Close with their friends and neighbours.
Their son, Travis, is due to take some important exams, but will he be able to concentrate when a serious crush derails his schedule?
As their fortieth birthdays approach, some significant celebration will be required, but how can Veronica agree to Owen’s life-changing request?
The fifth standalone episode of ‘Christmas on The Close’ shows how sharing a treasured life with someone does not necessarily result in sharing the same treasured dreams.
My review
Veronica and Owen love their life on The Close, and with their son Travis being a teenager now, Christmas Time is the perfect occasion to see what dreams they still may have, especially as both their fortieth birthday is approaching. But Veronica is shocked to learn that Owen has a request that she never even thought about it. A request that will change their lives completely. So this Christmas, Veronica has some serious thinking to do, beside worrying about her son Travis. Because not only Travis need to focus on his examens he is not sure he wants to take, but he is also determined to finally make a move on his crush. This for sure will be a Christmas to remember for the whole family, but in what way?
Sometimes you don’t need an elaborated book to show the values of family, love and Christmas. Sometimes a short story about a family and their personal dilemmas and issues can be just the right thing to make you realize exactly that.
Christmas is always a time to think about the past, present and future. You think what has happened, where you are now, and what you hope there is waiting for you. And we see here how Veronica is having the exact thoughts, also adding a self-conscious layer of doubt. Because getting closer and closer to forty, can be a terrifying thought, and makes you indeed think about what you truly want to achieve before it’s “too late”.
Just like Veronica I was a bit shocked to read about Owen’s request, or rather question. On one hand I could understand him, but on the other hand, just like Veronica, I saw a mountain of possible issues. But it’s also once again recognizable that when an important birthday approaches, you think about everything. Even if Veronica didn’t have the same thought as Owen, it makes her think about it…
And Travis, perhaps I was the most invested in his story. Because it’s not easy being a teenager. Not only does Travis is stressed about his examens, he is not sure which direction he wants to follow. And he has a huge crush on his neighbour!
I found it truly sweet how he wants to get noticed, going extra lengths for his crush. But I was afraid that his story of love would end in disappointed as there were several red flags… Yet I also found it great to see how something unexpected happened for Travis!
I truly enjoyed reading this quick story, about a normal family ready for Christmas. A Christmas that will be remembered for different reasons, as choices are being made, realizations made and a Christmas that has been a real eye – opener for the characters!
When your life turns out to be a lie but also at risk, who to trust?
Synopsis
The first rule of undercover work—don’t get attached…
Pilot Elise Hughes left the family business in the Florida Keys and now flies the rich and powerful to and from the Rocky Mountains. When she has to execute a by-the-book emergency landing, it’s no big deal. But being stranded in a small town with her handsome new colleague is something else entirely.
Obsessed with getting justice for his murdered father, undercover FBI agent Eric Erickson believes retribution is finally within reach. Until things get complicated. And dangerous. And he’s forced to face a few too many realities—including Elise’s connection to a well-known crime boss.
After Elise is kidnapped by the same man who took Eric’s father, he has a choice to make—find Elise or exact revenge. Meanwhile she has a choice of her own—trust the dangerous family she never knew she had or the man who’s been lying to her from the start.
My review
Elise Hughes is a pilot flying off the rich and powerful people to and from the Rocky Mountains. While there is a clear difference between her and the clients, with a few of the clients she get better along than with others. What she didn’t take in account is that for her latest flight, she is paired up with Eric Erickson. And there is just something about Eric that is just… But when the pilots have to execute an emergency landing in a small town, and having them stranded there, together with their clients, Elise learns some ugly truths, also involving her. Because not only is Elise kidnapped for her being related to a dangerous family, but also Eric is seeking out revenge for his father that has been murdered, by exactly the same people who kidnapped Elise. And now the pair of them have to make some important choices: can Elise trust the family who she just found, with all their baggage? Or will she trust Eric, who lied to her from the start, but also being the person that ignites something in her? And what will Eric do? Execute his plans for revenge and bring down Elise’s family? Or find the woman he cannot get out of his mind?
I have to admit, I don’t like flying, I have never dreamed of being a pilot or just anything involving being high up in the sky. But I for sure have the respect for people who made that their jobs. And being a pilot isn’t easy, and seeing how Elise managed to become exactly that, while it’s still seen as a ‘manly’ job, well she had my admiration from the start!
At the start of the book, there is a lot we don’t know about Elise. Well, to be honest, Elise doesn’t know herself yet… But what we know from her, saddened me. Because she discovered that her father, the man she idolised, wasn’t as great as she always thought he was. And it also broke something between her and her siblings, as her brothers seem to have posthumously forgiven him, but Elise just cannot…
But even if as a reader it isn’t a complete surprise, Elise’s true background is a shocking one. She never could have imagined what secrets have been being kept from her, only when it’s too late. Now, I don’t know how I would react in her situation, but I liked her for standing her ground, fighting back and even trying to figure out an escape plan.
And she is lucky to have an ally, in the shape of Eric Erickson, even if initially they just don’t seem to get along…
Beside the name of the character, which was a bit a too easy choice (until further on we discover the truth about this too), Eric is everything I expected from this type of character. Yes, he is on a revenge mission, but he doesn’t cross a line, or has a lack of the rules. As an FBI agent, he knows that things need to be done the right way, or no way.
But what I liked the most about Eric, was how he can shift his focus. Because while initially his only focus is on revenge, with this growing between him and Elise, he realizes that the woman he is starting to fall for is more important than getting even.
It also needs to be said, it was a bit difficult to “accept” in a way everything that was happening, as there for sure is A LOT. But I also believe that it’s purely to blame that my world and Elise’s and Eric’s are just so far from each other. I know that there is some serious bad sh*t in the world, but I have been living in a rather “clean” one, if you understand what I am saying? I have never encounter just a snippet of the character’s world, so in a way I am blissfully unaware of it 😊.
I for sure enjoyed reading this first book from a new author. It has suspense, danger, but also romance in it. We see characters grow, mature and understand the way of the world. And with that understanding comes also learning to prioritize what truly matters. And as this is the first chapter of a series, I cannot wait to discover what else the author has in store for us!
Isn’t this cover making you want to pick up the book and read!?
Synopsis
Christmas cheer was dead, to begin with.
The world rests on Eliza’s shoulders. The kids, her husband, work, her elderly mother and don’t forget her newest friend, perimenopause. It’s too much to carry, but she’s been doing it for years. It’s just what a good wife and mother does, isn’t it?
When another Christmas rolls around, Eliza is drained by all the expectations and logistics of the holiday season. She’s fast approaching her breaking point, only no one around her notices she’s on the edge.
After an incident at her in-law’s on Christmas Eve brings things to a boiling point, she finds herself with three unexpected visitors. The spirits of the past, present, and future take her on a journey through her life to shake her out of the rut she’s gotten into. Their messages leave her with new possibilities: reconnect with her past, reclaim her present, or forge a new future, and you, the reader, decide which option is best!
Alana Oxford is a Michigan author of romcoms, sweet romance, and humorous women’s fiction. She wants her stories to bring sunshine and smiles to her readers. She enjoys improv comedy, moody music, everything book related, and has an ongoing love affair with the United Kingdom.
How life goes after different choices at a crossroad…
Synopsis
‘Bea was always early for everything. Even, it turned out, when she was running away from her life.’
As Christmas approaches, Bea Preston has a choice.
Looking up at the departures board in Heathrow airport, her flight to New York boarding soon, she knows that getting on that plane changes everything. Her life in London has grown stale, her relationship with boyfriend Dom has run its course, and New York has always been her dream. But it’s a risk – she’ll miss her parents, her friends, her job.
What if Bea could live both lives? In one she goes back home for Christmas, and in another she heads to the Big Apple. Would her fate remain the same, or can one decision really change everything?
In a grand sliding-doors love story that spans oceans, years and lives, Clare Swatman’s unforgettable tale of fate and friendship is perfect for all fans of Jojo Moyes, Beth Moran and Ruth Jones.
My review
Bea Preston is not the kind of person that easily breaks people’s hearts. But this Christmas, will be different. Because the closer the happiest time of the years approaches, the more doubts Bea has about her life. That is why she finds herself at Heathrow Airport, ready to board for a flight to New York. Even if her life in London is not what she wants from life, and her relationship with Dom seems to have had its best course, is New York the solution? Because she will leave also her loving parents and family behind. When just a few moments before boarding, she receives a phone call, she needs to decide what to do: follow her plans and head off to New York for a fresh start, or return home to the comfort of her life as she has always known…
Haven’t we all wondered once where life would take us if at one specific moment we would have made a different decision?
In this amazing book we have a glimpse of what would happen in any of the two options. And to make it even more intriguing, there are time jumps, so each chapter is a new year, in each situation. And it’s obvious that a lot can happen in a year, in a lifetime.
Bea is in so many ways recognizable and relatable. Even if we don’t know why exactly she wants to escape London, it’s clear that it’s something that is truly bothering and affecting her. But beside her trauma, I truly liked Bea. She is perhaps someone that wants to please people too much and follows their opinions instead of following her own heart and head. Yet that doesn’t take away that she truly is a caring woman, a loving woman that in fact doesn’t want to hurt anyone.
Nevertheless, that doesn’t take away that sometimes you have to be ‘selfish’. And this is where Bea’s life splits in two: we have the Bea that thinks about what she truly want, and thus heading off to New York. And then there is Bea that listens to those around her and returns back home.
I had perhaps a preference of which storyline I preferred. But even in my favourite one, we see that life can throw several curveballs, making you reassess all the choices you made. And those curveballs at moments also angered me, in both storylines, as I was cheering for Bea and I wanted her to be happy, no matter what choice she makes.
I found it amazing of how this author managed to let have Bea similar experiences, as events in both storylines overlapped. That somehow made me believe that no matter how much you make your own choices, some things are in a way already written in the stars for you. And no matter what, it will bring you in that spot where Fate wants. Sometimes it will take a longer time to get there, but eventually the goal will be reached.
A truly wonderful story, with a whirlwind of emotions, showing us not only the many ups and downs of life, but also that a lot can happen that will change the course of your life. We see the difficult choices that life presents us, but no matter what, we also see that one way or another, there are loving people around us, supporting and cheering for us. Oh and I also need to warn you: yes, while reading, you will be singing a certain song with the same title! 😊
When rivalry starts, do love and romance have a chance?
Synopsis
Two rivals. One battle. And an epic love story they didn’t see coming.
When a virtual stranger unexpectedly leaves Jess one million pounds to create a romance library in gorgeous, small seaside town Sunshine Bay, she can’t believe her luck.
Although Jess has no idea how to run a library and is in a massive reading slump, accepting the challenge means she could stop juggling three jobs and swap her crummy London bedsit for a dreamy life by the sea.
But wealthy, arrogant and handsome Henry Cavill lookalike Theo has other ideas.
The bullish property developer’s father has instructed him to buy the same coveted plot of land and failure isn’t an option. Theo’s future depends on it.
After the landowner insists that Jess and Theo stay in the town’s only B&B whilst they prepare a presentation to decide their fate, sparks fly.
But with so much riding on winning the pitch, these rivals can’t get involved.
Which is a problem, because the more time they spend together, the harder they start to fall…
Order this dual POV, steamy, enemies-to-lovers, small-town romcom now and get lost in a love story that will give you all the feels!
Tropes:
– Enemies-to-lovers – Small-town romance
– Romance book lovers – Forced proximity – Work rivals/competitors – Opposites attract – Fish out of water – Rich vs poor
Jess is struggling ever since leaving her boyfriend. She has several jobs just to survive but it’s not easy… So when one of those jobs brings Mrs. Davis on her path, Jess doesn’t yet know that this meeting will change her life. Because after Mrs. Davis suddenly passes, Jess is flabbergasted to learn that she has inherited not only the thousands of books, but also an astronomical budget to make Mrs. Davis’s dream come true: opening a Romance Library in Sunshine Bay. While Jess used to love reading, that passion disappeared since her ex – boyfriend… But who is Jess to not give Mrs. Davis’s last wish a chance? However, she is not the only one with her eyes set on the chosen plot. Because property developer Theo has clear instruction from his father to secure the same building, at any cost. Between the rivals sparks start to fly, after the landowner makes it clear that he hasn’t decided yet who he will sell the property to, and that he wants that both Theo and Jess stay in Sunshine Bay and get a sense of what being part of the community means while preparing a presentation. While they are finding it more and more difficult to resist the attraction, it will only end in heartbreak as one of them will lose the battle, right?
There are books in this world that just have you swept away from the first chapter. And there are books that need a few chapters before you fall completely in love with it. With each new book that I start, I always wonder in which category this latest addition to my long list of read books will fall. And when I pick up a book from a beloved author, there is always that tiny bit of trepidation, as my expectations are high but that also means that I have this tiny bit of fear that I will end disappointed in a way.
Luckily for me, and for Olivia Spring, the day that I am disappointed after reading one of her books, still has to come, and hopefully in a far far far far away future! 😊
Jess’s character gave me mixed feeling from the very start. Not in the sense that I both liked and disliked her from some reason. But I felt so sorry for her as it’s clear that something happened to her, and at the same time I liked her for her mindset, as she is not a quitter, and once she put her mind to something, she just goes for it.
We don’t know what exactly happened in her past, and what made her love for reading disappear, but clearly it’s something that truly traumatized her. And the more I got to know her, and more bits from her past very revealed, the angrier I got for what she had to endure. Yet at the same time I also admired her, because no matter how much she is struggling at the present, she hasn’t lost herself, and she is still that kind, caring and understanding person she has always been.
Now, if you are just like me, you were a bit surprised by the generosity of Mrs. Davis. Because let’s be honest for a moment, who in their right mindset would do what she did? But of course, in a book is always more possible. And no matter how strange it may seems, it’s clear that Mrs. Davis has found a kindred spirit in Jess. And that not only Mrs. Davis hopes that Jess will be able to make her dream come true, but also that Jess will find the love and passion again for reading.
But fulfilling Mrs. Davis’s wish isn’t as easy, especially as there are rivals in the field. And this in the magnificent form of Theo!
Of course the first encounter with Theo is one where Jess clashes with him. Yet as a reader, we already see the potential in their relationship. It is easy to ‘condemn’ Theo for being the bad guy, as he is clearly Jess’s rival. But there is so much more to Theo, he isn’t just the love/hate interest and with just one mission in mind.
Theo is the ‘typical’ guy who wants to do good for his family, but that also means that he allows his own father too much to ‘play’ him. Because Theo is obviously a hard worker and has great ideas. But he is also a bit opinionated in a way, as heat first clearly follows his father’s footsteps and even dares to look down at the way of life in Sunshine Bay.
I found it hilarious how in this book all the clichés of a romance are being addresses, discussed and even a bit ridiculed (especially by opinionated people who don’t know better…). And then to see how the love I have myself for romance was put into words, expressing exactly my own thoughts! Just great!
The physical attraction between Jess and Theo is so palpable, and it was also funny to see how they are both attempting to avoid any interaction. But on the other hand, it was so sweet to see how not only do they find an understanding, but also just understand each other, better than they would expect. And it was heart – warming how they are also there for other, for support, comfort and…
This book in general is filled with so much warmth, not only from the main characters, but also the whole community of Sunshine Bay. They show us what a real close community means, and how welcoming people also can be. And we also see how not everything is about money, but about heart. And that people also have to learn that lesson. But most important, this book is filled with so much laughter, love, and understanding. I truly devoured this book so quickly, as I just had to read more! Only to regret my speed, as the end was reached far too quickly! 😊
A year ago, Viking Stefan’s clandestine marriage to Saxon maiden Ædwen was torn apart by the shocking discovery that her father murdered his family. Unable to forgive his wife for hiding the truth, Stefan left. But now word reaches him that Ædwen is about to wed again…
Forced to marry at her father’s command, Ædwen’s stunned when Stefan bursts through the church doors and announces that she’s already married—to him! As the warrior steals her away passion reignites, but can Ædwen ever trust Stefan again when he left her alone, devastated—and carrying his baby…?
My review
Saxon maiden Ædwen isn’t looking forward to her forced marriage, arranged by her own father. But for the sake of her secret, she has no option. But when the moment has arrived to speak the vows, she is shocked to have the wedding interrupted by Stefan, a Viking Ædwen has a past with. Because one year ago, Ædwen and Stefan spent time together, and had also fallen in love, until Stefan discovered that Ædwen’s father is responsible for the murder of his family. Stefan wants to stop the wedding for his own reasons, as Ædwen is already married, to him… And he takes her against her own will with him. Yet he didn’t expect old passions to resurface that easily. Nevertheless, Ædwen is not ready to trust her old lover and husband again, especially as he already abandoned her once, and leaving her pregnant and alone…
I always enjoy reading stories about Vikings. I always enjoy reading stories about second chances. So of course I enjoyed reading this story, as it just has both! And as it’s from the hand of an author I know, things couldn’t just get any better!
I felt sorry for Ædwen, because not only did she lose the love of her life, Stefan, a year ago because of something her father did, but she is also forced to marry a complete stranger. And the only reason she is agreeing with it, is for the sake of her daughter that has been taken away from her, by the same person (a.k.a. her father) that arranged the marriage. Just how much can someone endure???
To make things even worse, she is doing whatever her father wants, because of her daughter, only to see it all crash and burn with the reappearance of Stefan…
Now, you would think it would be a joyous moment, the past lovers, or rather the married couple, being together again. But it’s the absolute contrary! Because Stefan not only doesn’t trust Ædwen as she kept it a secret from him that her father is responsible for his family to be killed. But he also believes that Ædwen did even something more horrible…
I could understand both characters, them being very wary of each other, not trusting each other and even keeping secrets from each other. But while there is still a lot of mistrust, I loved it reading how after everything that has come between them, that passion that they once had for each other, is still there, ready to be ignited with the more time Ædwen and Stefan are spending together.
It was sweet to see how despite the one year that they were apart, how at ease they are with each other. And with ‘at ease’ I mean their subconscious just recognize each other…
We also see that trust needs to be built (again). Especially with a year since seeing each other the last time, and how it ended sourly, it’s clear that things won’t be solved that easily. There is not only a lot to talk about, to clear the air, but there are also new revelations that need to be digested.
There is one thing that was rather frustrating for me… and I am saying this on a funny note, so don’t go panicking! 😊 do you have any idea how annoying it is to write the name of Ædwen (constantly copy – pasting the first time I typed it…) or just knowing how to pronounce that name? 😊
But I can easily say that I truly enjoyed reading this story about second chances, about forgiveness and about understanding. And most important, how love can and will always find a way, and even give you the greatest surprise and reward of them all!
What would you do if you had just twenty-four hours to change your life?
Ailish Ryan has been in hiding since her husband’s affair ended their marriage. But when a friend forces her to face her new reality, will she choose to revisit the past or embrace a brand new future?
Ailish’s daughter, Emmy, thought her boyfriend was nothing like her cheating father, but now she’s not so sure. As the hours pass, she turns detective to find out if she picked the right man, or if history is repeating itself.
Grandmother, Minnie Ryan is on a mission to deliver a very special gift to a lifelong friend. But will grit and a touch of divine intervention be enough to overcome the obstacles that fate is putting in her way?
Dario Moretti has spent his whole life working in the family business, but now it’s in trouble and he’s all out of options. Will he have the strength to let it go, even if it means hurting the people he loves?
The clock is ticking… but will twenty-four hours be long enough to heal four broken hearts?
My review
Ailish Ryan hasn’t been herself since the discovery of her husband’s affair and the subsequential divorce. Instead of learning to embrace her new life, she went into hiding and has been letting things go. But the news concerning her best friend is perhaps the perfect occasion to turn things around? Also Ailish’s daughter Emmy, is going through a difficult time. Because discovering that her own father, who seemed to be perfect, could be a deceiving person, scarred her too. And with her boyfriend acting weird lately, Emmy is afraid that she will make the same discovery her mother made not so long ago. And Emmy’s grandmother, Minnie Ryan, has a special mission of her own. Because with the support of her husband, she wants to give a lifelong friend the gift of a lifetime. But will it be so easy as Minnie hopes it will be? All the above is happening while Dario Moretti has to make the most difficult decision, as the family business has not recovered since the pandemic… But will everyone accept the choice he eventually will make? So many decisions and choices that will affect everyone’s life, in only a time span of 24 hours…
When the timespan in a book is only 24 hours, it may seem impossible to have a captivating story. Well, perhaps in many cases that would be, but not when it’s a book written by Shari Low. Because once again, I found myself completely submerged in this wonderful story!
Of course initially it takes some time to put all the pieces of the whole puzzle of the main characters together. But luckily we have a great help for that at the start of the book! 😊
Each main character, Ailish, Emmy, Minnie and Dario, have had a lot in life, no matter how young or old they are, but all four of them have also lost, or are on the verge of losing a lot, with some kind of heartbreak being involved.
I was sad for Ailish, because a few years she thought she had it all, a great family, a loving and devoted husband and even the relationship with her mother – in – law, Minnie, is a good one. But to discover the unfaithfulness of your husband, and the way she did, I can understand why Ailish has been struggling since then…
But it was also sweet to see how the news concerning one of her best friends, is the little nudge Ailish needs to make a change. With the right incentive, and even some good – meant blackmailing, we see not only a change in Ailish’s exterior, but also the realization that standing still, even hiding, is not the answer. No matter how much someone and the past has hurt you, you have to look forward and chin up!
We also see how one choice affects more people than you may initially think. Because the affair and subsequential divorce, isn’t only affecting Ailish, but also broke something in Emmy. And that is an aspect that is often overseen. No matter how old the children may be, still a minor or already an adult, it also breaks your own heart. We see how Emmy, who used to be close with her father, saw him as her hero, now saw that image totally crushed. And it also affects her own relationship. Of course it doesn’t help that her boyfriend is acting weirdly, and for sure I could understand her suspicions, only fuelled by the history of her father’s choices…
Minnie’s tale for sure broke my gentle heart… She is the kind of granny that everyone wants. And the love she has for her husband is so obvious in everything she does and says to him. I truly admire couples that after so many years together still have that fire of love burning. Their lives together have had their ups and downs, but most of the flashbacks put a bittersweet smile on my face. Bittersweet , because right from the start I had an idea of what was going on, and I even was a bit afraid of the direction Shari Low would go with this wonderful character…
Dario’s story was perhaps different compare to the tale of the three generations. But that doesn’t mean it was less in any way. In his story we see how the pandemic is still affecting people and businesses, as now – and let’s be honest about it – we live slightly differently compared to the pre – pandemic time. Not only are the prices of just everything still rocketing high, and if I look at myself, I am not that eager of eating out any more. And there is also of course the overload of possible choices… As Dario is running a family business, he not only has a legacy to keep, but the restaurant is also his own son’s future. So having to make the choice isn’t easy, as it affects more than just him…
Yet I would have loved to go to this kind of restaurant myself, because it’s a family restaurant in the real meaning of the word. When you are there, you are treated as one of them. There is so much warmth and love that you can feel from just reading, so imagine if you were there for real…
I loved seeing how all these different stories were entwined. Obviously Ailish, Emmy and Minnie were linked as being part of the same family, but seeing how also Dario was somehow linked to the women, was really great. And I absolutely enjoyed reading how much can happen in just one day. It can truly be a life – changing 24 hours! And with learning the background of each character, it was a delight getting to know them better.
Shari Low for sure knows how to captivate her audience! Her stories are always heart – warming, heart – breaking, bittersweet but also realistic. There is never over the top events taking place, and the main characters are complex just like real people. And this story is luckily for us, loyal readers and fans, not the exception!
When opening an old time capsule is a real eye-opener
Synopsis
Becca Burnside isn’t sure where it all went wrong. How did she end up single in her forties, with the highlight of her weekend being a trip to Big Asda with her mum and the only chance of cuddles coming from her dog?
It’s fair to say that Becca’s life isn’t quite where she’d hoped it would be. She already knew that, deep down, but when she finds the time capsule she and her friends made as teenagers and remembers the hopes and dreams sixteen-year-old Becki (with an i) had for the future, she knows she has to do something, and fast.
Refusing to be controlled by her hot flushes and Unexplained Waves of Sadness, Becca is determined to turn things around – for Becki’s sake. But what will it take to prove there’s life in the old girl yet?
My review
You can say a lot about Becca Burnside, but you cannot exactly say that she is living the life being in her forties. As a divorcee, she doesn’t really comes out of the house, she isn’t in a relationship with anyone, her twins are away studying, and beside her best friend Niamh, she has the most contact with her own mother. It’s only when she learns that the mother of her former best friend Laura has passed, that something changes in Becca. It’s after all that when someone is gone, you start to think about your own life, and regrets. With the rekindling of the lost friendship, and the find of an old time capsule made with Niamh and Laura, that Becca understands that she has to make a change, for sixteen – year – old Becki (as she called herself back then). But between hot flushes and Unexplained Waves of Sadness, can that change truly happen?
I have read several stories with main characters older than myself. And in the cases in the past, o course there were obvious differences, but in this book, the difference between Becca and myself were way more obvious. And I mean this in a good, way, because what Becca is going through, is in that aspect way more realistic, as life isn’t always rainbows and unicorns.
I think that many women in Becca’s situation will recognize themselves. Well, to be honest, in a few I could even recognize myself! 😊 When we were teenagers ourselves, didn’t we all think we would change the world and that our parents were always in the wrong? And how many of our big dreams have we actually achieved in retrospect?
But also it’s true that sometimes friendships end and pride and stubbornness stay in the way of bonding all over again. And it’s only when something heartbreaking happens, that pride and stubbornness don’t matter anymore… Perhaps it isn’t easy to regain that same friendship again, but with baby steps nothing is ever truly lost.
Sometimes we also need a good kick in the you – know – what to realize that in truth, you aren’t living your life at the fullest, but you are just standing still. And that is what happens with Becca opening the time capsule. She realizes that she hasn’t achieved that much as Young Becki would think she would.
I found it heart – warming to read how strong old friendships can be, yet also how fragile they can be. Yet no matter what happens, a friend in time of need is a friend indeed. And it was great to see how these three friends are able to give that nudge to each other, in not just remembering their dreams and friendship of the past, but also in motivating in looking ahead and not just give up in any way.
Perhaps this wasn’t exactly the book that I expected it to be, because I had in mind that this would be an over the top hilarious book, where I would wipe away the tears of my face as I would be laughing too hard. Because I know this author, and I always truly loved her books. But while this book for had some great laughs, it wasn’t always a world where everything goes right… Yet that is also the beauty of the book, because the author portraits life just as it is. With friendships gone bad, hot flushes and Unexplained Waves of Sadness, these things are so recognizable for everyone, no matter what your age is (well, perhaps not the hot flushes, but you know what I mean 😊).
I truly enjoyed reading this book, as it made me think about how life can go, but also how the values that matters the most, can withstand everything, even the biggest fights. I liked it how this amazing author is able to write about perhaps subjects that are still a bit taboo. For sure an example that more authors should follow!
When the suspect of a new murder is a person that dislikes you but needs your help…
Synopsis
A local gossip is about to get her just desserts!
Life at Hopgood Hall is never boring, but Alexi Ellis hopes that there will be no more murders for the time being – she’s solved four already and is getting a reputation in the local area for being bad luck.
So when local gossip Polly Pearson arrives at Hopgood hall, Alexi knows this can only mean bad news. Polly has made it clear that she dislikes Alexi, and has campaigned for her to leave Hopgood Hall forever – so what could Polly want?
Then Polly reveals that her partner, Gerry has been found murdered in her B&B and that she is the main suspect! Alexi, her partner Jack and Cosmo the cat are all left speechless. More so when Polly begs Alexi for help improving her innocence.
But Alexi isn’t sure she wants to help this spiteful gossip. Is she really innocent or as deadly as the police believe her to be?
My review
After four murders at Hopgood Hall, Alexi Ellis hopes that no new murders will be taking place, or she will truly believe that she is a bad omen… Yet Alexi is more than astonished when Polly Pearson, local gossip and number one in bad – mouthing about Alexi, needing her help. Because Polly’s partner Gerry has been murdered in her own B&B and Polly is the main suspect. But is Alexa willing to help the worst gossip out? Together with her partner Jack and Cosmo The Cat, Alexi starts to do some digging and they are all astonished learning that nothing is as straightforward as it may seem…
Starting with this book, gave me a bit mixed feelings. Because while I loved returning to Hopgood Hall and seeing Alexi and her friends and loved ones (and Cosmo😊) again, I knew that another murder would be taken place. All while I wanted nothing more for Alexi and Jack to have the time to just enjoy each other.
I have to say, I don’t know if I would be helping out Polly, taking in account the way she behaved towards Alexi. Okay, even if being accused of murder is a serious matter, I would only point her in the right direction and then I wouldn’t be bothering about her anymore. That only shows how kind Alexi truly is…
Of course I also think it’s a matter that Alexi and Jack are also a bit curious 😊 Did Polly truly did it? And if she did, why did she do it? And even if all the clues point towards Polly and the police is only focused on her, it can never be bad to have a fresh view on things and look at other possible suspects…
The more I got involved in this story, the more I started to see red flags just everywhere. Everyone was a suspect, everyone was a possible murderer. And while murder is never the right solution/answer, well it’s save to say that victim Gerry wasn’t holier-than-thou… He for sure used women and people in general for his own benefits…
I was a bit shocked to see Jack’s ex making an appearance, and disliked her from the first entry. Not only because she acts like she’s all that, and seems to be some kind of a threat for our power couple. Yet I was happy to see how Alexi and Jack are still as strong as before! But that doesn’t mean I kept on being wary of the ex, and I was glad to read that my gut feeling was still spot on!
There are definitely several twists and turns in this book, as the plot keeps on thickening, and more people enter the scene. Secrets are being uncovered, the suspense keeps on increasing. But do not worry, as this book, just like previous ones in this series also keeps its lightness. There are several moments that put a smile on my face, and yes, Cosmo is the main smile – creator! He for sure is a force to be reckoned with. And it was also sweet to read how this feral cat has an attitude but also a kind cat heart!
I truly enjoyed reading this story as it was the perfect combination of lightness, suspense, but also with a bit of lovely romance!
When the search of your younger sister brings you into the ninth century…
Synopsis
A bond that even time cannot break
Storm Berger has never forgiven himself for his younger sister Madison’s disappearance. Suspecting she’s travelled back to the ninth century in the footsteps of other family members, Storm can only make sure she’s safe by going after her.
Raised unconventionally as her father’s only child, Freydis has never been content to simply accept her fate. So, when she’s promised in marriage to a tyrant, she’s determined to find a way out of the arrangement. Help comes in the form of a mysterious and attractive stranger stranded on her island’s shores: Storm.
The only way Freydis can truly be free is for Storm to marry her himself. But that would mean entwining lives that, until now, have been separated by centuries. . .
My review
Storm Berger has never forgiven himself since a year ago his younger sister Madison disappeared into thin air. He has the suspicion that Maddie, just like his other sibling, has found an ancient but magical artefact, that transports you to the ninth century. Now Storm wants to find such an artefact himself, to find his sister back. After a long search, he finally has such thing in his hands, and indeed it brings him in the ancient times of the Vikings and he crosses paths with Freydis, a young woman who has a will of her own. A will that makes her a strong adversary in fights. But when forced to marry a tyrant, Freydis needs to find a way out of the arrangement and a way to gain her own freedom. And for some inexplicable reason, she may find that help in the form of the stranger recently arrived on her island. A stranger that is nothing like any other man she ever met, but if Storm is her only way out, who is she to refuse his help?
Those who know me, know that I am rather sceptical with stories that involve magic, time travelling, or other things that are rather impossible. So I see you already thinking: “So why Tizi, if you are not liking that kind of stories, have you read this book, that clearly has some magical things in it?”
Well, because, this series got me hooked and I just had to read it!
My heart went out to Storm from the very start of this book. The guilt he carries around since his younger sister went up in thin air is paralyzing him, it’s his only thought to find Maddie again. And yes, as a reader we know where Maddie is, and Storm for sure also has an idea where (or in what era) she is. But I could understand that he needs confirmation that Maddie is doing just fine, wherever and whenever she is…
Yet somehow, Freydis’s story was even a sadder one… Being an only child, even a real Daddy’s girl, she was raised more like a boy than a girl. She is a strong young girl at the start of the story, and it was sad to read how after losing her father, her own mother just sends her off, after her new marriage. From the start it felt fishy to me, but in a way, I was happier to see Freydis go somewhere else than staying with her mother that clearly dislikes her own daughter…
If only Freydis would end up in a happier place… It angers me to read where people use their powers to their own benefits, forcing people to do what they want, not taking people’s feelings in account at all.
Despite having everything against her, Freydis can luckily count on one person always being on her side, in the form of loyal Joalf, who keeps training her and is a real ally.
This isn’t the kind of book where the moment Storm enters Freydis’s world, they fall head over heels in love, they cannot stay way from each other and profess their undying love in the matters of days or weeks.
And I was happy for it! Because to be honest, I don’t believe that people fall in love that easily. In lust, yes, but love needs to grow and that only happens when you get to know someone better in time.
So I found it so sweet to see how time passes by, and Storm and Freydis get closer, even without realizing it. They have respect for each other, they understand each other and want to help each other out.
Of course, it was also a bit funny to see how a Storm from the 21st century is adapting to the 9th century. And while he does a great job at it, of course some slips are inevitable.
And it isn’t easy to explain the way the world runs now, with equality, to people of another era.
With growing feelings, yet unspoken, and things taking an unexpected direction for the main characters, I found myself rotting for this couple. Even if at moments they were so infuriating frustrating! If only they dared to speak out and confess their true feelings! It would have spared the both of some headaches and heartaches! 😊
In more than just one way, I found this truly a power couple. Together they are a force to be reckoned with, their strengths enforce each other even more. And even if the truth is difficult to understand, and living in a whole different era (both for Storm and for Freydis), having each other and having someone to trust completely, makes it all easier to digest and comprehend.
I truly enjoyed reading this story, as it shows the power of not only a magical artefact, but also the power of love. How it can emerge at the most unexpected time and way. And how with love, in fact, nothing is impossible!
Tizi’s Book Review 