Tizi’s Book Review

Always have the eyes on the prize, but what is the prize?

Synopsis

When Robin finds out she’s going on a work trip to Italy she can’t wait for a week away in the sunshine, away from the daily grind. So what if there’s a client pitch to do while they’re there? The thing Robin is most excited about is the chance to show her work crush, James, what she’s really like outside of work, and divert his attention from Liz, her work rival.

To make things even better, Robin realises that the town they’re going to in Italy is the same place that her childhood penpal, Andrea is from. So it’s the perfect time to re-connect and finally meet her old friend over some delicious Italian food and wine (between work obviously…) But when Andrea doesn’t turn out to be the person Robin thought, things get a little complicated…

So it’s set to be a week of all sun and games… Until someone falls in love of course!

A friends-to-lovers, only-one-bed, fake dating romance from million-copy bestseller Portia MacIntosh.

My review

Robin has had a crush on her colleague James for a long time, but not only he never showed any interest, but she is also in competition for his affections with her constant rival Liz. And Liz is not only her rival in love, but also at work. They couldn’t be more different or have different views on how to make the perfect advertisement for their clients. So when for a client pitch, they all have to head of to Italy, Robin sees this as the opportunity of a lifetime. Because now she can show James what the real Robin is like. And when she discovers that they are going to stay at the same place her old childhood penpal Andrea lives, she hopes she can find her friend, meet up and rekindle their friendship. Between food, wine and work, Robin not only has the shock of her life when Andrea doesn’t appear to be what she thought, but also that her fight for affection isn’t turning out as planned…

Let’s start with stating the obvious, that I was over the moon with this new story from an author that I love. To make it more amazing, I loved it how it’s taking place in Italy. Could the author make this reader happier? I don’t think so!

For so many reasons, I could relate with Robin. She is just a regular girl, not someone extremely extraordinary. She is just like us, a normal young woman, doing her best at her job. And having a (perhaps not so) secret crush on her colleague James.

There is absolutely nothing wrong with being normal, so I got angry at her place with all the not so subtle digs at her.

If her colleagues and boss cannot see how amazing Robin is as a person, it’s absolutely their loss!

At the start of the book, I was hoping that at least James would rather quickly start to see what a treasure Robin truly is. But the more the story evolved, the more I started to dislike James and his behaviour, and I found myself cheering for a complete different ending.

Because as a real Italian, I had a real good idea what the shocking discovery would be. And I loved it to read how that discovery just was applicable in both directions! 😊

I found it heart – warming that, once the shock passed, Robin and Andrea just clicked in real life just like they clicked on paper. Despite their differences, not only linguistical ones, it shows that real friendship is strong enough to withstand each difference. Even years apart cannot break up what was meant to be solid.

Now, of course there had to be found a way to have Andrea more in the story than just a fleeting meeting with Robin. And thus the misunderstandings, and deceptions made with the right intentions start. And thus the great fun for us as readers also start!

Deceit is never good, but in this case, why not? I loved reading how Andrea was willing to help Robin out, not only with translations, but also making her understand what the Italian life truly is about. And it was sweet to see how Robin was willing to also help Andrea out, to release the pression.

But with their deceit, while for us it’s crystal-clear, for both the characters it’s difficult to understand what is still deceit and what is reality and honesty…

I absolutely devoured this book, had several laughs and many many swoons. But I also learned a few things about how marketing works, and how difficult it can be to find the perfect pitch. Some times you nail it, and sometimes you just don’t. And with an Italian brand, with their focus on its ‘Italianity’, it cannot be easy to put that feeling in a pitch. And I loved it how Robin tried to understand what that Italianity means, and how she can put it to use. The contrast with Liz’s idea couldn’t be bigger, but also shows that Robin in the end just got it.

There is one thing that truly put a smile on my face while reading, and even making me hungry, was the Italian client. Come A Casa is a real brand in Belgium, and it makes, just like in the book, Mediterranean ready meals. So whenever the name came up, I was longing for lasagna, and had their tune in my head! 😊

Portia MacIntosh has written amazing books in the past, always making me smile and laugh at loud. But this book, quickly had me all loved up, in many different ways. And for so many different reasons, this may be my favourite one for the moment!!!

You’re never too old for an adventure!

Synopsis

It’s never too late to sail a new course…

When retired Jill Parker wins an all-expenses paid Mediterranean cruise for two she is thrilled! At 63 life in retirement has got a little bit bland for Jill and this might be just the holiday she and husband Eddy need to get the sparks back in their marriage.

But when Eddy admits he would much prefer to build his patio and look through the latest DIY magazine, Jill is left with only one other option – her sister Diana.

Diana has become rather reclusive since her husband, Caspar died, but perhaps this is the push she needs to bring some excitement back into her life, too?

Could this trip be just what both sisters need to reconnect and chart a new path for their futures?

Excited to be exploring new horizons and catching up, the sisters soon discover that not everything is smooth sailing on board. And as they enjoy cocktails together at sundown, they discover that they are both actually a little all at sea…

Praise for Maddie Please:

‘Sea, sunshine, romance and fabulous characters; Maddie’s light touch and sense of fun will lift your spirits!’ Bestselling author Judy Leigh

‘Witty, warm and simply wonderful.’ Bestselling author Sarah Bennett

‘For a book that’s as cheering and restorative as a long lunch with your very best friend, Maddie Please is the author you need to know!’ Bestselling author Chris Manby

‘Genuine and life-affirming…a wonderful, light-hearted novel about how it is never too late to find happiness.’ Bestselling author Kitty Wilson

My review

When Jill picks up the phone, she never expected to be the winner of an all – expenses paid mediterranean cruise for two. As her husband Eddy is more eager to work on their patio, and he suggests to take Jill’s sister Diana with her, Jill thinks it’s a great idea. Especially as Diana has become rather reclusive after becoming a widow. Once boarded, it’s clear that everyone remembers Diana’s husband Caspar, as he has been the captain on several cruises. And that also plays in the sisters’ advantage as now everyone wants to please Caspar’s wife. But on the trip Diana realises that there is more to her than just ‘being Caspar’s wife’ and she even opens up to Jill, about how her marriage has been. With the two sisters reconnecting, they also start to enjoy the experience of a lifetime. An experience that neither of them will ever forget, even after having put their feet back on solid ground, for more than just one reason.

I always enjoy reading stories about people older than myself, going on adventures I would like to do myself. I know, being in my thirties means I can do so many of them, but while I still have to find the courage to go on such adventures, I enjoy reading about them.

The book already starts on a hilarious note, at least for me, as Jill finds herself winning a cruise without even trying! Just Jill being Jill is enough for the whole adventure to start.

Now, even if I knew beforehand that it would be a journey with the two sisters, I was a bit disappointed in Eddy, because who on earth would prefer to work on their patio instead of going on an all – paid holiday? That made me fear that there was something wrong in the marriage of Jill and Eddy. But I also knew that if that were to be the case, the situation would be mentioned somewhere during the cruise.

Eddy not going, meant luckily for us that Diana enters the scene. Being single, in my thirties, I cannot even imagine how it feels to be a widow. But Diana truly is affected by losing er husband, and it pained me to see how lonely and reclusive Diana has become.

It was also clear rather quickly that her being married to Caspar the real Diana somehow got lost.

It was lovely to see the sibling reconnecting, even at ‘their age’. While I am still now very close with my own brother, I know that not all siblings have the same relationship, but also that their own lives can take a different direction. But that doesn’t mean that there isn’t any love anymore.

And sibling together on a holiday, well, that for sure is a recipe for many adventures! 😊

Jill and Diana are for sure very different, and see things differently. But the two causing havoc (involuntary most of the times!) for sure put several smiles on my face.

And being ‘limited’ on a cruise ship together (with the exclusion of their excursions), is also the perfect chance for the sisters to get closer again, and open up to each other about their lives and what happens behind closed doors.

Because especially in Diana’s case, she doesn’t always showed and shows what turmoil she was and is in.

In that matter, it was great to see the real Diana resurface again, casting away the cloak of ‘just being Caspar’s wife’, but being the magnificent woman she is. And seeing her opening up, doing even things that shocked me (in a good way!) was amazing!

I truly enjoyed reading this book, about two women finding each other again, ready for a new adventure, bringing many insights not only in their own lives, but also in each other’s lives. And I liked how even on a cruise ship you can meet people that in one way or another can change your life. But mostly I liked how age truly is just a number, and that no one is ever too old to have an adventure!

Maddie Please may have written about people twice my age, but I never felt that age difference. She ‘just’ wrote a story about siblings on a journey together, bringing them together again and have the experience of a lifetime, having gained many insights when they put their feet back on shore once again!

When a reality show matches you with not the man you want, but the man that broke you…

Synopsis

In this game of hearts, the stakes have never been higher…

Molly Harris is used to being left. Parents, boyfriends – she’s the queen of rejection. Her latest boyfriend, gym-fanatic Duncan, dumps her to go on reality dating show The One which sets up hot singletons to date for four weeks before meeting at the altar to say, ‘I do’.

But Duncan was the one who picked Molly up and put her back together the last time her heart got broken, so, determined not to let ‘The One’ get away, she follows Duncan onto the show. If she can prove that they’re meant to be, she might just get the happily ever after of her dreams…

But on the first day of filming, another reminder of her painful history walks into Happily Ever After Towers: Ben Knight, her it’s-not-you-it’s-me heartbreaker. The one she loved before Duncan.

In four weeks’ time, who will she meet at the altar? Duncan, the first person who ever made her feel loved, or Ben, the first person who made her feel?

My review

Molly Harris is deeply in love with her boyfriend Duncan. He is the one that helped her to get over her last heartbreak. She for sure can envision their future together, but is left flabbergasted when Duncan breaks up with her instead.  Not because he doesn’t love her, but because he has the opportunity of a lifetime to participate on a reality dating show. And obviously being on television is the perfect way to boost his ego and his own brand.Not wanting to lose Duncan, even if their break – up is temporarily, Molly decides to take part in the same reality show. But instead of being matched to Duncan, she is matched with Ben, the man that broke her heart previously.With the grand finale of the show being to get married to The One, Molly now has to decide where her future lays. With the man that mended her heart and made her feel loved, or with the man that broke her heart but made her feel?

Reality dating shows are absolutely my guilty pleasure. And as the Dutch versions of Married at First Dates, First Dates etc are rather ‘tame’, I watch the UK and Australian versions for more popcorn – moments.

So having an author that I love, writing a book where such show is taking centre stage, of course I have to read it!

Now, I have to say that at the start of the story Molly rather clingy. It felt like Molly would do anything to not lose Duncan, even changing her eating habits and do more work – outs. If you want to do such things for yourself, absolutely no problem, but for a man? No, a man that truly loves you, accepts you just the way you are.

But the better I got to know Molly, the more I started to understand her and her fear of being abandoned. Her background is a sad one, especially learning how devastated she was after Ben broke her heart in an unexpected and terrible way, using the cliché of ‘it’s not you, it’s me’.

While I comprehended her a little bit better the more the story evolved, I couldn’t agree wit her choice of participating too on the reality show. If a man dismisses you so easily, is he truly the man for you?

On top of that, I truly didn’t like Duncan… not only because he wanted to change Molly into the perfect woman for him, but also because what kind of man breaks up with the woman he claims to love for the sake of fame and fortune???

And his behaviour for sure doesn’t get any better during the show, on the contrary! I felt like he was betting on two horses at the same time. I couldn’t understand what Molly could possibly see in a man like that!

But of course, Ben doesn’t make the best first impression either! He just participates on the show doing a favour to his sister, who actually works on the show.

It’s clear from the start that he is carrying around a big burden, a heavy weight on his shoulders. He has been burnt by love in the past, and he has been through a rather though time. And that made him just push love away.

And with the revelations of his hurt past, made me understand him so much better. While I still don’t agree with some of his choices back then, I could see where he was coming from. And it was understandable why he broke Molly’s heart, because it really wasn’t Molly, it was him.

Obviously, as a bystander it was just hilarious to see how Molly and Ben are being matched, despite Molly’s attempts to be matched with Duncan.

But as a reader, we know both sides of their story, and I just couldn’t wait to have all the cards on the table.

It’s clear that there is still something between Molly and Ben, but in their time apart, they also have moved on in a way. But we also see that they are also both still afraid to try to understand what their hearts are trying to tell them.

I for sure had several laughs while reading. The challenges were hilarious, the rivalry was palpable but there was also room for connections, not only between the matches but between the contestants too.

In this story we see how the past can affect someone. How it can make you scared of meeting someone, or scared of losing someone. We also see how we have to decipher what we truly feel and what the right kind of love feels like. Is it to love because we feel loved? Or is it love because we

*feel – feel*? It’s not easy to understand our own feelings, and giving in to those feelings can be scary.

But for the right person, it’s only right to be courageous. And that courage will only be more rewarding afterwards!

It was a truly delightful story to read, with so many hilarious bits, but with many heartfelt moments too! this for sure is an author that never disappoints!

Giveaway!

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Can a second chance stand a chance?

Synopsis

Welcome to Ivy Falls

In the gorgeous small town of Ivy Falls, Torran is putting all her passion into building her new career in house restoration, trying desperately to help the town keep its identity and charm. She has no time for love but when her childhood sweetheart, Beck, comes back to town and outbids her on her dream house at auction, sparks fly. This man broke her heart. Can she ever trust him again?

For Beck, Ivy Falls means trauma and loss. He knows his sudden departure hurt Torran badly but there are things she doesn’t know. He never intended to return to Ivy Falls so why is he there, bidding on his childhood home? His feelings for Torran are as strong as ever but Torran means Ivy Falls and Beck can’t go back there. Can he find a way to heal his past and find his future?

A romantic, uplifting and captivating read set in small-town America, perfect for fans of the Virgin River series and Colleen Hoover.

My review

Torran has one passion in life, and that is restoring houses without letting the place lose its heart and soul. But the people in Ivy Falls are wary of her, after an online video shows her screaming and shouting about the place. But if there is one way to show the community of her honest intentions, it’s Torran working on the dream house and restore it’s grandeur. If only it weren’t that she’s being outbid at the auction. To make it even worse, she loses the house of her dreams to the man that broke her heart, Beck. Beck doesn’t understand himself why he made an offer on the house. Of course, it’s the house where he grew up in, but Ivy Falls holds so many painful memories, he prefers to stay away from it as far as possible. However, owning his childhood home again, and the works needed is much more than he thought, there is only one person up to the challenge: the woman whose heart he broke years ago…

What is it about our childhood homes that somehow have a grip on us? A house is only a building, so it shouldn’t be that important. But as it’s the place where so many memories have been made, good ones and bad ones, it makes sense that we keep that place close to our hearts.

And what is it about living in a town with people that think badly about you, because of a viral video at your worst? It’s always the people that know you the longest that can make you feel at your worst. And no matter how hard you try, you are never truly free of the gossip and talking behind your back. To make things even worse, in that same town, the restrained relationship with your father doesn’t help with him being the mayor of that same town…

As you can see, Torran isn’t finding herself in the best of situations at the start of this book. And then I haven’t talked yet about the heartbreak she had to face with losing her mother, scarring her emotionally…

And that other heartbreak, years ago, caused by the man that now took her dream away…

For so many reasons my heart went out to Torran, as she is fighting several ferocious demons all at the same time. It’s not an easy life Torran has, as she is also constantly worried about her sister.

But it’s also that same sister who needs Torran’s support, that is there to support Torran through the most difficult moment. There is only one person that can understand what Torran is going through and that is Tessa…

But I also admired Torran, as she knowns what she wants, and she doesn’t easily give up. At moments that can be seen as a stubbornness, but most of the times that was exactly Torran’s strength.

And even if I don’t have a clue about renovating/ restoring houses, I liked it how Torran is adamant on not losing the heart and soul of a place. She wants to keep any house as genuine, original as possible, even if that is not always the easiest option.

If we would read the story from only Torran’s point of view, it would be so easy to have an instant dislike for Beck. Because the way he broke up things with her, were just not nice (being polite here 😊).

But as we see also his side of the story, how could I possible dislike him for just any reason? Because what he has been through at a younger age, the pain he had to endure and the struggles he is still having, can you blame him for any of his actions? Even if he make wrong choices, they were made out of pain, self-preservation and fear…

I could completely understand why he never wanted to return to Ivy Falls, but I could also comprehend the pull the place still has on him…

Getting to know Beck better, was a case of breaking my heart. Beck has been through so much, has been trying and is still trying to do the right thing. And he is struggling with protecting his sister, who went on a downward spiral.

Beck has been broken in the past and that made him keep his distance from everything and everyone.

But when has the heart ever listened to the mind? Never, right? So in that aspect it was initially funny and later on sweet to see how sparks still fly around Torran and Beck. With their own and shared past, it couldn’t be a walk in the park, as Torran is wary of him, and Beck is still afraid to open up (his heart) completely…

Both character have to go through a lot in this book. They have to learn to trust, to forgive and to listen. It’s a case of trail and error, as their growth doesn’t come easy. And while for sure this is a love story, this is also a story about that growth, how that things can change and how people can keep on surprising you, in a good way. Putting your trust in someone isn’t easy, but putting your trust and love in the right person, can be so rewarding… And I am not only talking about Torran and Beck, but I am talking about every character appearing in this wonderful, heart – warming yet also heart – breaking story!

The adventures love makes us undertake

Synopsis

There may be trouble ahead…

Just when Daisy thought she had canal life understood, Theo, her primary go-to for all of her boating questions has left Wildflower Lock, not to mention the budding romance that has been steadily growing.

Not one to sit and wallow, Daisy takes matters into her own hands. Who said long-distance relationships can’t work?

With the help of trusted friend Yvonne, Daisy takes the September Rose on a round trip to surprise her new boyfriend. The best thing about a home on the water? You can go anywhere!

But perhaps leaving the serenity of Wildflower Lock wasn’t the best idea. Daisy hates keeping secrets from Theo, and she’s not the only one…

Full of fun, friendship, laughter and sweet romance, Blue Skies over Wildflower Lock will delight readers who love Cressida McLaughlin, Heidi Swain and Holly Martin

Praise for Hannah Lynn:

‘Heartfelt and engrossing – you’ll fall in love with Wildflower Lock.’ Fay Keenan

‘A delightful, well written tale, full of wonderful characters in a charming setting. I loved it!’ Katie Fforde

‘Another wonderful adventure with Daisy and Theo! … Its happy but realistic, swoony but down to earth, and downright delightful.’ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reader Review

‘A thoroughly good read, very entertaining and a series I hope will continue. Five sparkling stars and my recommendation.’ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reader Review

‘I love how the setting of the book and the characters transport you to a whole new world and made me wish I was living Daisy’s life ‘ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reader Review

‘This is a really beautiful cosy read. I found the location and the houseboat to be stunning … The characters where fantastic I honestly loved them all. ‘ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reader Review

My review

Daisy never expected to enjoy canal life as much as she does when she inherited the September Rose. And she didn’t even expect to find love, in the shape of Theo. But even if things are going well for Daisy, Theo leaving Wildflower Lock for a job has left Daisy with many questions. Will their love stand the distance? And is it love, as those words haven’ been spoken out loud yet? As Daisy isn’t one to just sit and wallow, she decides to take matter in her own hand, and wants to take the September Rose on a round trip, and surprise Theo with a visit. Together with her new friend and neighbour Yvonne, Daisy is ready for a whole new adventure. But where will that adventure end? And how?

I have truly enjoyed reading the journey Daisy has been through. Not only from inheriting the September Rose, but also what has happened ever since. Not all has been good things, but most of them have been. And with her living on the Rose, also put new people on her path, people that stole pieces of her heart.

At the end of the previous book, I found it a bit sad that Theo would be leaving. But I also understand that it was a commitment he had made, and he didn’t want to walk away from it. Only shows the kind of person that Theo is…

And at the start of this book, I had every possible finger and toe crossed, hoping that Daisy and Theo would show me that their love was a very strong one.

However,… (and this is the good kind over ‘however’ 😊) while daisy starts her adventure to surprise Theo, the journey she is having is a personal one. While in the waters, we see Daisy going through several things, adding on her growth that she has been doing since the start of the whole series.

I have to admit, out of love I would do many things. But I don’t think I would have the courage to take the September Rose out in the waters like Daisy does. Even if she can rely on Yvonne, the sense of responsibility and fear of doing something wrong, no way José! 😊

Of course, not everything runs smoothly, and Daisy and Yvonne find themselves in some peculiar situations. Some of those situations even made my heart skip a beat out of terror.

Only shows to never underestimate the possible difficulties that can take place!

Daisy and Yvonne also meet new characters. While one character shows himself being rather clingy and persistent, I couldn’t stop myself from taking an instant liking! But also the opposite happened with another character, as I was very wary and distrusting.

It was sweet to see how Daisy and Yvonne are getting closer thanks to this adventure. And with Yvonne have knowing Daisy’s father, Daisy has the chance to get closer to the man she never knew and has been absent in her life.

It warmed my heart to see how Daisy manages to find a connection with the man that isn’t here anymore…

Now, it isn’t that Theo is completely absent in this story, there are flying visits and many calls between the couple. And it was great to see that despite the distance, Theo is still the amazing man we have get to know he is.

Of course, as Daisy is keeping her journey a surprise from Theo, we see a Daisy ‘forced’ to lie to the man she loves. While we know why she is keeping things from Theo, it’s clear that Theo isn’t an idiot and he knows that something is off… It made me afraid that the secrets and the lies would be the end of the couple that has worked so hard on getting where they are now.

I truly enjoyed reading this new chapter in Daisy’s life on the September Rose because like I said, we see so much growth in Daisy. The adventure starts as a token of her love for Theo, but it’s clear that it’s more about Daisy herself, and her inner demons, than surprising Theo.

And then there is so much love in this book. Not only the love between Daisy and Theo, but also the love between friends, family and even love for a person that you haven’t even ever met…

How can you have that happy ever after?

Synopsis

When life throws up the unexpected, can Phoebe hold strong?

In the idyllic setting of the New Forest, talented vet Phoebe Dashwood envisions a picturesque life alongside her beloved fiancé. However, the course of true love is fraught with unexpected hurdles.

Career wise, Phoebe encounters a goat who is seemingly experiencing a phantom pregnancy, and a highly-strung talking parrot who pushes her professionalism to the limits.

Things take an unexpected turn for the worse when Phoebe is confronted with a glamorous love rival, and a surprise Valentine’s Day ‘date’ to see a financial advisor! Can things get any worse?

When tragedy strikes Phoebe realises that nothing in life should be taken for granted and fears she will lose everything she holds dear.

Whilst her friends find their own happy endings, Phoebe is beset with doubts that she and Sam will ever find theirs. Is love enough to carry them into the future they deserve?

My review

Phoebe is ready for her happy ever after with her fiancé Sam. But being a vet is a time-consuming job, with animals testing all of her knowledge. On a personal level also, Phoebe has to face some struggles, as things aren’t going exactly as she envisioned they would be going. As life and love continue throwing her curveballs, and even tragedy strikes, Phoebe has to face that no matter what she planned in her life, life has a plan of its own. Even if that means that her happy ever after is as far as possible as Phoebe and Sam would ever think it would be. But is their love strong enough to survive every kick in the head?

Retuning to Puddleduck Farm is like returning to visit family or friends that you haven’t seen in a long time, but are very eager to see again. And with characters like Phoebe, Sam and Maggie, why shouldn’t I be ecstatic. However… a new book in a series also means more trouble ahead for characters that deserve the world and more.

Of course it great to see how in love Phoebe and Sam still are. Seeing their relationship evolving throughout the whole series was truly a delight, and if there is a couple that for sure deserve a happy ever after, it has to be them.

But once again we see that life isn’t all sunshine and rainbows, because both Phoebe and Sam have to face new issues. And while at moments I wanted to strangle the author, for everything she made especially Phoebe go through, everything that is happening makes the characters also more realistic. We see how not everything always goes as it should be, we see that no matter how strong a relationship is, there can be (small) cracks in, testing its strength.

However, let there be no doubt, Phoebe is as delightful as ever, and at the most difficult moments in her life, I wanted to jump into the book, give her the biggest hug in the world. Because Phoebe is the kind of person that deserves to be happy, as she is always there for everyone, not only her family or her friends. She is also the kind of person that is able to remain amicable to an ex, and wishes the best for him.

And obviously her big heart for animals… It’s clear that people who care about animals are the best kind of people! 😊

I could truly not wait to see how her relationship with lovely Sam would further evolve. Yet like I said before, they are for sure not having a walk in the park.

Sam is delightful as usual, yet I could also see him acting like a man typical would in some instances: too proud, oblivious, and doing or saying the wrong thing at the wrong time.

But no matter how hard I tried, I couldn’t stay mad at him for too long, because Sam is Sam, a man that adores Phoebe and is the kind of boyfriend/ fiancé everyone would dream of having.

This book faces a lot of relatable issues, for example no matter how strong a relationship may look like, when faced with a possible threat, jealousy can be a nasty thing.

But  there is also the fact that in the world we are living in, it’s not easy to find the perfect place to live in, no matter how comfortable our finances may look like.

And then there is the heart – breaking tragedy taking place. I am not going to explain what happens, but I can assure you, I had to wipe away a tear or two reading about it. And it even scared me, because often that event can make or break a couple…

But I also have to say that the author depicted it very respectfully, didn’t prolong it unnecessarily nor did she dimmish it. It was handled with the care it was needed, showing also all the emotions such tragedies bring with them.

There is a lot happening in this latest part of the series, and I made it seem like there are only bad things happening. But is absolutely not the case. Because in so many different instances, we see so much tangible love. The love between Phoebe and Sam obviously, but also the love of their families and friends. The love for animals, in all forms and shapes.

And then there are all the lovely things that are happening to the characters, making them grow further.

I loved returning to Puddleduck Farm, seeing my old friends again. Once again they made me laugh, but they also made me cry. We see that even when life starts to look up, that same life can throw you curveballs. But when you are surrounded by the people you love and that love you unconditionally, even the biggest tragedy cannot break you.

While at the start I already loved each character, at the end of the book, I loved them even more, as they have shown vulnerability, but also strength and resilience.  

When the goal is to have more fun…

Synopsis

A Tale of Love, Discovery, and Second Chances…

In the bustling world of Dublin’s advertising scene, Kitty O’Sullivan, a copywriter, feels an unexplainable void in her life that she can’t quite pinpoint. Her five-year relationship with Dave is stagnant, her creative juices have dried up and she’s even entertaining thoughts of marriage as a cure-all! Something’s missing from her life but she can’t work out exactly what it is…

When Dave decides to take time out from ‘them’, Kitty finds herself momentarily liberated to explore life and have some fun. She and best friend Shazza are corralled into joining a five-aside football team where she meets the intriguing Sweetman brothers, Tom and Rory.

As they sail around the enchanting coast of Dublin, engage in fierce football battles and stumble upon a magical secret drinking den, Kitty falls in love with her new life – and her new self – but is it only temporary until Dave returns?

Will Kitty find the answers to life’s mysteries and take charge of her future?

My review

Kitty O’Sullivan feels that something is missing her life. Her job as a copywriter in an advertising bureau has always been thrilling, but lately that little extra is gone.
Also in her personal life, things aren’t that exiting anymore. Being together with Dave the past five years has turned into a lacklustre relationship. It has even come to the point that Kitty thinks that perhaps getting married may be the solution to get things fired up again.
But instead of being excited, Dave decides he needs a time out, as he cannot handle the ‘pressure’ Kitty puts on him.
With Dave temporarily back to his mother, Kitty now realizes that she has the opportunity of a lifetime. Together with her best friend Shazza the plan is to have more fun. But plan and execution don’t always completely match, as suddenly the friends are joining a five – aside football team, together with the Sweetman brothers, Tom and Rory.
The more Kitty is expanding her world of fun, the more Kitty enjoys her new and busy life. But where lays her future? Will she follow the new path or will her future be alongside Dave?

Sian O’Gorman is the kind of author that can apparently write easily compelling and heart – warming stories, that are so realistic and relatable. But of course I know that writing books isn’t an easy job, and I was once again amazed by the talent of this author.

I truly believe that Kitty at the start of the book is in a situation many people recognize… The job isn’t going as it used to and also your relationship is turning into a hardship.
Now, Kitty is doing her best to support Dave, but let’s be honest, didn’t you dislike him from the start like I did?
I couldn’t’ grasp why she even wanted to stay with a person like Dave. Yes, everyone can go through a difficult moment, and everyone works on it at their own pace. But with time passing, there should be some evolution, some kind of progress in one’s behaviour.

And I couldn’t understand Dave at all, him claiming that Kitty is putting pressure on him. I felt like it was the total opposite, as Kitty is trying to get him out of his dark cloud. So while it broke Kitty’s heart, I was glad to see him going back to Mummy dearest (another character that made me cringe!).

I loved the dynamics between Kitty and Shazza. They are best friends, yet they are also very different. Like they say themselves, Kitty isn’t having any fun, while Shazza is having ‘too much fun’. And the idea of having together fun, making them compensate each other, was a great one!
It’s clear that Shazza sees fun in everything, ‘dragging’ Kitty with her. At moments it felt like Kitty had no other choice but saying yes to whatever Shazza proposed.

But it was also great to see how much Kitty truly starts to enjoy life. She sees how fun and exciting life can be. And yes, I know it’s not all sunshine and rainbows, and that new hobbies can be very exhausting.
That doesn’t take away that new adventures can bring new people in your life, people that are an asset to have in your life. People that see you for who you are, appreciate you and want to get to know you better.
Not only that, but Kitty getting more outside, also makes it possible to rekindle some strained relationships.

The more the story evolved, the more we see the real Kitty emerge, the Kitty that enjoys life, and that also results in Kitty finding the right inspiration job – related. And the more the story evolves, the more I truly liked the person Kitty is turning into.

So obviously I was disappointed at a certain moment in the book. Because to me felt like we were back at square one. And it was so unfair in many different ways, towards so many different people. Because unwillingly, Kitty is hurting people with her choices…

But I also felt like that is part of Kitty’s journey… because it’s a journey filled with trial and error. It’s easy to go back to what we know, because going for the unknown can be a really scary thing. And that is the strength of this book, as the characters aren’t flawless, they are human just like you and I. Sometimes we need a slap in the face to understand that we are in a rut and that there is so much more to life than what we are experiencing at the moment.
So just dare to have more fun in life and say ‘yes’ to challenges! You may never know where it may take you!

Not only couples can profit from therapy, but can coworkers?

Synopsis

Two writers. One pressing deadline. No time for romance…

Scarlett and Theo have one bestselling novel to their names: the psychological thriller they wrote together years ago. None of the books they’ve written separately have sold anywhere near as well…

Now at risk of being dropped by their respective publishers, their agent tells them that working together is the only way to save their careers and sends them off on a writers’ retreat in the south of France.

It wouldn’t be the worst way to spend a summer–except that they’ve accidentally been booked on a couples retreat instead, and spending so much time together stirs up some very inconvenient feelings!

With their careers on the line and a pressing deadline, romance is the last thing on their minds…

Beach Read meets The Proposal in this gorgeously escapist and wonderfully bookish romcom set in the south of France

My review

Years ago, Scarlett and Theo wrote together a bestselling novel. But since then, not only they aren’t in touch anymore, but also they didn’t manage to gain the same success separately.
With the looming risk that their publisher will drop them, their agent tells them that the only way to save their careers, is to go together on a writers’ retreat in the south of France.
Despite the lovely location, Scarlett isn’t looking forward to be working with Theo once again, after what happened when their book was released.
To make things even worse, Scarlett and Theo discover that there has been a mix – up and they are registered at a non – refundable couples’ retreat instead of a writers’ retreat.
Forced to spend time together, and participating on the therapy sessions, not only old pains are resurfacing, but also old feelings. And this while Scarlett and Theo are attempting to replicate their writing success once again.

As an avid reader, I can only try to imagine how difficult it can be for a writer to come up with a  captivating story, enthralling your readers.
And when your first book turns out to be a success, that success can hang as a dark cloud over you. Because now the expectations for sure are very high, and it’s easy to disappoint and never get that same success you had the first time.

And in Scarlett’s case, her success will always be connected with Theo. It isn’t clear from the start what exactly happened between the pair, but I had a gut – feeling. Yet I had to be very patient to see my suspicion confirmed 😊.

My heart went out to Scarlett, because she for sure has many burden weighing on her shoulders… Not only has her writing career not exactly been blooming and this could be her last chance, but she also has many personal problems. Everyone of her family relies on her, as they are accustomed that Scarlett will be there to save the day. And she also is there for her best friend, while it is for a lovely chat, but also in their time of need.
It’s so obvious Scarlett struggles to be on top of everything, and feeling as she herself cannot rely on anyone else, makes her also feel lonely…

That also means that while for other people it would be amazing to go on an all – paid – for retreat, for Scarlett it causes only more headaches. Because now it’s her that has to rely on other people…

Of course I had fun reading Scarlett and Theo clash over almost everything. It only shows that what happened in the past still bothers them both.
And while mandatory couples’ exercises for sure are something special, I could comprehend how it would help a couple getting closer again.
And yes, it’s a couples’ retreat, but I could see how many other couples, non – romantic related, could all benefit from such exercises.

With each day passing by, we see that each relationship needs a strong foundation, as it’s on that foundation that you can keep on building on.
And that foundation starts with trust, honesty, comprehension and also forgiveness. Even when there are misunderstandings or when you are not on the same page for one reason or another, it’s important to voice your thoughts and feelings.

In that aspect, seeing how the couples, not only Scarlett and Theo, are reaping the benefits of the retreat, was both heart – warming and in a way eye – opening. It’s easy to cling on what happened in the past, but the trick is to learn from it and to learn to move on from it.

In Scarlett’s and Theo’s case it was a real work in progress. Because they were quickly pinpointing the flaws in each other, and how they were still holding on to the past. Yet slowly, they start to see each other in a different light, and they start to understand each other. And of course that simmering attraction also helps! 😊
Oh and may I add that the book they are writing, I would love to read that for real? 😊

This was a lovely story, where a lot of growth is taking place, from both main characters. We see that getting help, for any kind of a relationship, isn’t something to be ashamed of, as it can only help you forward in life. It can let you understand your partner better, and can help clear the air.
And while set in the beautiful south of France, perhaps a second chance, done rightly this time, can be the greatest reward of them all after all the opening up! 

When you need inspiration for a novel, Scotland is the answer

Synopsis

All Bea wants is to fly to Scotland and write her steamy new book. Find a smoking hot Scotsman to model the hero on. She can do no-strings, in the name of art, right?

But Bea hasn’t met Cal Butler. Yet…

Bea Gracie, an American romance writer, flees to Edinburgh to escape her broken heart and find inspiration for her fictional love interest. And there he is – the stunning-yet-aloof Cal Butler – in the same Edinburgh coffee shop where Bea is tapping at her laptop. All she has to do is orchestrate a meet-cute and her muse is hers.

Drawn inexorably to each other, Bea and Cal agree to a no-strings fling so they can revel in guiltless passion with a firm end date. But Bea’s feelings for Cal grow like the wildflowers along the coastline of his homeland. Is it possible he harbours feelings for her, too, or is the fire in his kiss something he can safely pack away? And what will happen when this privacy-guarding hero finds out he’s been immortalised in Bea’s spicy novel?

If you love being transported along cobblestone streets and Scottish shores to meet Celtic heroes, then this steamy, contemporary Scottish romance is for you. Discover this passionate new series and fall hard for the Butlers.

My review

Bea is trying to write a successful new book. As she needs some inspiration, and a way to mend her broken heart, she leaves her home to fly over to Edinburgh. There she hopes to find the perfect muse to base her fictional love interest on. While writing in a coffee shop, she suddenly sees Cal Butler, and there he is, the muse she has been looking for. Acting against her own nature, she forces a meet – cute encounter with Cal, only to learn that Cal is not eager to get into a conversation with Bea. But when Cal needs help in his own bar, Bea is there to the rescue, as she has bar – tending experience. And it’s there that sparks start to fly around the place, and Cal and Bea decide to have a no – strings attached fling with each other. Yet no matter how hard they both try to keep things lightly, feelings start to grow. With Bea returning back to the States, Cal not knowing he is Bea’s muse and his own unclear future plans, where will it all end for them?

I always love reading stories where the main character takes off to another country or continent, for once reason or another. I am always looking forward to see how he/she adapts to a new setting, trying to find their way. And of course, if there is a love interest involved, I am hooked. Oh, add a sexy, even grumpy Scotsman, and I am literally already swooning! 😊

From the start, it’s clear that Bea is not in a good place. Even if her heart got broken, and her relationship ended, it’s obvious that the relationship wasn’t the best kind. It felt somehow that Bea has been gaslit, as her partner for sure didn’t support her, and mocked her aspirations in a way. So obviously I was sad for Bea that she was treated that way, but I was also happy to see that now she out of the claws of an unhealthy relationship.

While I admire people taking off to another country for a certain period, like Bea does for several months, I don’t know if I would have that kind of courage. I am rather set in what I know, and why make a change, not knowing where it will take you? Yes, I am one of those people who rather stay safe than taking a risk! 😊

So even if I would never do what Bea did at the start, I admired her choices, and I had the chance to see the kind of ‘risks’ that could take place.

Initially I thought that Bea was a little bit of an introvert, especially reading how she acted out of character to just get that first conversation started with Cal. Which by the way was so absurd and funny 😊. But seeing her working at the bar, I quickly realized that in fact she is a people – person, and she enjoys chatting with customers and even flirting a little bit. Bea an introvert, I couldn’t be more wrong!

It’s at that same bar that sparks truly fly around with Cal! With sneaky glances, kisses that are happening, or rather not, but also feelings of jealousy, it was all great to read about these simmering feelings!

Cal of course is perhaps the cliché of a Scotsman, this massive, sulky man, who is also carrying the worries of the world on his big shoulders.

But beside his grumpiness, especially at the start, I was amazed by Cal’s character. He didn’t have an easy childhood, has been through a lot, yet he is surrounded by a loving family, a family he would do anything for. He would give up his own dreams for his family.

He is also a great boss, and he is a righteous man, he wants to do the right thing. But he is not a fool, because he wants black on white proof of what has been stated. Clearly a man that keeps on thinking straight!

Like I said before, the sparks fly around between Bea and Cal. But it’s not only those sparks that made me keep on reading, it was also great to see how this attraction just keeps on building, and how they don’t just give in in those first few chapters. Sometimes I found myself frustrated as the moment finally seemed to appear, to only be ‘disappointed’ when it didn’t.

But when it finally did… does sparks for sure turned into huge fireworks!

Yet ‘whatever this is’ between Bea and Cal, goes deeper than just the physical attraction. And I loved reading how they get to know each other better, and how they understand each other, and are just there for each other.

Obviously there are obstacles to overcome, and I found it refreshing to read how they just didn’t disappear into thin air, but it takes time and effort to overcome them. Just like in real life, they aren’t overcome just overnight!

This was a great first encounter with an author that I cannot wait to get to know better! She took me away on a wonderful journey in Scotland, with great, deep characters, and I am looking forward to my next escape with her!

When your new boss appears to be your ex and the job is already on the line…

Synopsis

One new boss, one ex-boyfriend, one big dilemma…

Stevie Phillips has just landed her dream job working for a publishing company and it seems like this is page one of her new, improved life.

But her first day throws more curveballs than she thinks she can handle: there’s been a takeover and the whole publicity team has been fired. And her new boss is the last face she expected to see.

Because Noah Anderson also happens to be her ex-boyfriend.

Thrown together on a campaign for a book the rest of the staff don’t want to touch with a barge-pole, Stevie resolves to make the best of a bad situation. This is her chance to prove herself, and she’s not going to let the man who broke her heart ruin it for her.

When Noah starts hinting that there was more to their break up then him just not loving her, Stevie’s resolution starts to wobble. Getting back with your ex is never a good idea, is it? Especially not when your ex is also your boss…

My review

Stevie Philips cannot wait to start her new job for a publishing company. Wit her best foot forward, she is determined to show her worth. Only already her first day at the office is turning into a real nightmare. Because the company has been taken over and the whole publicity has been let go. AS she has just been added on the payroll, her new boss is not letting her go yet, and wants her to show him her worth. Normally Stevie would be up for the challenge, weren’t it that her new boss is the man that broke her heart years go. And now Noah Anderson is back, but he is nothing like the man Stevie fell in love with.

Before Stevie knows it, she is teamed up with Noah to work together on a campaign for a romance book that nobody of the remaining staff wants to look at. Because not only is the author labelled as difficult, but also romance isn’t a genre that is worth the hard work.

Nevertheless, as Stevie is a big romance – lover, she is determined to make this book a great success. And meanwhile Noah is determined to make Stevie understand that him leaving her wasn’t just a case of not loving her. But on him if he fools Stevie once, but shame on Stevie if Noah fools her twice. Or not?

Do you remember when you have the first day of a new job, when you excited but also a bit scared? You are ready for the next chapter in your life, and you just hope that everything is just as you imagined how it would be. And I don’t know how many people can actually get the job of their dreams, but that only can add more stress, even if it’s the good kind of stress.

That is how this story starts, with Stevie looking forwards to her new job, only to get the shock of her life! I cannot imagine how Stevie feels when she discovers that the company just had a takeover, the team she would be working with, has been let go and that she doesn’t know where she stands. And perhaps I have an evil streak, but I found it funny when Stevie learns that her new boss is the man that crushed her heart years ago.

Although it was hard to connect the rather cold Noah with the romantic Noah we have met in the prologue. How Stevie and Noah met years ago, was the perfect meet – cute! If only I could meet the man of my dreams that way! 😊

So I couldn’t understand how that perfect man could change so much. And yes, I know that a lot can happen in years’ time, but it felt like someone else took possession of Noah’s body, so different was he.

Yet I liked it how Stevie wasn’t afraid to stand up against him! Even if a person is your boss, I truly believe that being respectful doesn’t harm anyone. And that also includes when making difficult decisions, you can always communicate them in a humane way.

There is in fact a lot I liked about Stevie! I also recognized a lot of myself in her, like the passion for romance books. How often when I tell someone I like to read, there is this air of dismissal when I say I read romance. What is wrong with loving romance books??? They bring me so much joy in life, they are my escape from a hard day, a difficult time.

So if I could, I would be fighting alongside Stevie for romance to get the respect it deserves!

But I also liked it how Stevie was fighting for her beloved romance author to get the recognition she deserved. Because it’s terrible when you’re not heard and being labelled as difficult to work with, while all you want is to treated right. And now that I think about it, that is a returning theme in this book!

And again that mean strike of mine appeared, reading how Stevie and Noah are working together, to make a success out of a romance book, fighting against all odds.

It was sweet to see how Prologue – Noah in fact is still somewhere in Present – Noah. But it also broke my heart to learn why Noah has changed, or even made the decision to break up with Stevie so long ago.

Despite the sparks still flying around, I comprehended why Stevie is still wary. Noah already broke her heart once, and she just barely overcame that pain. But there is also the fact that now Noah is her boss. In a job that is still at risk…

For Stevie there is so much on the line here, and of course she is afraid, who wouldn’t be?

From the start until the end I enjoyed reading this book, with a female lead just as passionate about romance books as I am. And while this obviously is fiction, somehow it made me believe that meet – cutes and all the other ‘typical’ tropes of romance are not all that fictional at all. I had so many smiles and laughs (evil laughs included), encouraging all the characters in each endavour, to be courageous 

But most important is that we see that sometimes life doesn’t go as expected, in so many ways, even with heartbreak as a result. But sometimes taking that once extra chance on someone, with more wisdom in our lives, can be the perfect plot twist of them all!