Tizi’s Book Review

When the desire to escape brings a marriage of convenience…

Synopsis

Her betrothed cheated on her. The duke offers to save her. Can a marriage of convenience turn into true love?

In this steamy historical romance, a sheltered baron’s daughter and a celebrated duke agree on a marriage of convenience, but he has a secret that may ruin it all.

She is desperate to escape …

When Miss Annabel Ridley learns her betrothed has been unfaithful, she knows she must cancel the wedding. The problem is no one else seems to agree with her, least of all her father. With her wedding day approaching, she must find a way to escape her doomed marriage. She seeks out the Duke of Halmesbury to request he intercede with her rakish betrothed to break it off before the wedding day.

He is ready to try again …

Widower Philip Markham has decided it is time to search for a new wife. He hopes to find a bold bride to avoid the mistakes of his past. Fate seems to be favoring him when he finds a captivating young woman in his study begging for his help to disengage from a despised figure from his past. He astonishes her with a proposal of his own—a marriage of convenience to suit them both. If she accepts, he resolves to never reveal the truth of his past lest it ruin their chances of possibly finding love.

The Duke Wins a Bride is the delightful first book in the Inconvenient Brides series of steamy Regency romance books. If you like worthy heroes, strong heroines, fast-paced plots, and enduring connections, then you’ll adore Nina Jarrett’s charming novel. Can be read as a standalone book.

My review

Miss Annabel Ridley cannot wait to marry her betrothed. That is until she finds out that he has been unfaithful and isn’t planning on making any changes in his behaviour. No matter how hard Annabel tries to cancel the wedding, both her father as Richard want the wedding to take place.
Her only option left is to ask the Duke of Halmesbury for help.
But what Annabel doesn’t know, is that the Duke, Philip Markham, has just decided that the time has come to search for a new wife, after losing his first one. Wanting to avoid the mistakes of the past, he hopes that he can find a bold bride, even a fierce one.
So when he finds Annabel in his study, he thinks that she may be the answer. Because a marriage of convenience is what they both need to solve their problems. And it for sure helps that Philip is captivated by Annabel.
But even in Regency, can a marriage of convenience work, when Annabel is not perse looking for love, but at least respect? And where Philip has already been burnt in a marriage before?

I can truly enjoy reading a Regency story. But I enjoy those stories even more when there is a strong female lead, ready to fight for herself and her happiness.

And that is exactly the kind of character that Annabel is. We meet her when her wedding is approaching. And while perhaps there isn’t that big passionate love with her betrothed, there is a good base to start a marriage with.
Until the moment she discovers that he has been unfaithful…

I have to admit, that moment, despite the tragedy for Annabel, put a little smile on my face, reading how Annabel sees the situation and compares it with well, animals… 😊

But of course it’s terrible for Annabel to see what Richard has been doing behind her back and isn’t even a tiny bit remorseful about it, or has any thoughts about acting differently after getting married to Annabel.

Just like Annabel, it angered me to read how both her father as Richard expected to just let the wedding take place, despite everything that happened…
I was especially disappointed in her father, his lack of interest, his lack of even love towards Annabel and how only the title and reputation count for him…

So yes, while perhaps it isn’t the smartest idea, I could completely comprehend why Annabel decides to fight for herself and even isn’t afraid to put herself into danger, as long as it means that she can get the much needed help to escape that marriage.

Annabel is clearly not that meek woman everyone expects a woman to be. Even while requesting the help from the Duke, she doesn’t let him intimidate her, but she stands her ground. And only after realizing that what Philip offers is the best possible option, AND after she has made her own ‘inspection’ and added a few of her own stipulations, she agrees to the marriage of convenience.

It could have been a weird tactic of Philip, proposing marriage to a woman he just literally met. But slowly learning about his previous marriage, and understanding how that and losing his wife affected him, well it made a lot clear of the persona Philip is.
He also immediately sees the fire that Annabel is, and that is exactly what he is looking for in his wife. So why would he look any further? And of course it helps a bit getting his own revenge.

Revenge that perhaps was also understandable, but also perhaps based on conclusions that were made too quickly, making him lose also his best friend…

But it was great to see Annabel and Philip slowly getting to know each other, learning from each other. Of course there are some hiccups and that trust isn’t gained all that easily. But slowly they are getting there, the both of them wanting to see the other one happy. Even if that means putting your own personal thoughts aside.

And their attraction for sure sparks from each page, but those sparks never take the spotlight. It is an important aspect in the relationship, but it’s also the emotional bond that they have that is just great to see, and the mutual interests that they have.

This was a lovely book to read, about strong characters trying to find a way to happiness. And while it all starts with a marriage of convenience, there is growth as a couple, understanding each other, and also most important, respect from both parties. And also learning to understand one’s own feelings and admitting them and not let fear hold you hold.

As this was the start of a brand new series, I cannot wait to see what else this author has in store for her readers! 😊  

A summer in Italy, a summer to never forget

Synopsis

Abi is distraught when her ex-husband Alex takes their twelve-year-old daughter, Chloe to spend the summer with his glamorous fiancée Marisa and her parents at their home on the beautiful Italian island of Procida. Persuaded by her best friend to book a holiday at the island’s Hotel Paradiso, Abi finally meets the woman she’s been avoiding for so long. Will the two women’s strained relationship survive the summer?

One-time teenage swimming sensation, Loretta, has run the Hotel Paradiso since leaving Capri broken-hearted. When childhood friend Salvo comes to stay, Loretta is forced to confront her past and the fears that have kept her away from the water for forty years. But just as she finds the courage to open her heart, she discovers all is not as it seems with Salvo…

It’s a summer of new beginnings for Abi and Loretta – and one they will never forget.

Take a trip to Italy with Victoria Springfield for a summery getaway any time of the year!

My review

Abi is heartbroken when her ex – husband takes their daughter Chloe for the whole summer to the Italian island of Procida, with his fiancée and her parents. It’s not about the plans that Abi made herself, but more the fear that she is losing her daughter to the more glamourous side of life.
S when her best friend persuades Abi to book a holiday at Procida’s Hotel Paradiso, Abi takes off, ready for the confrontation too with the woman that took her husband.
Once upon arriving at Hotel Paradiso, Abi befriends the owner, Loretta, who has run the hotel since she left Capri heart – broken many years ago. But also for Loretta it’s time to face her past when an old friend appears to be staying at her place…

A story set in Italy? Do I really need more to pick a book up? Of course not! And it being set in a place so near my own roots, of course it has an advantage!

At first I have to admit, I didn’t truly warm towards Abi. Not because she is a bad person, or a terrible mother. But it felt like she was too clingy towards her daughter Chloe. I understand that Chloe is all Abi has left, but I also felt that Abi was relying a bit too much on Chloe being around and Chloe wanting to spend her time with her mother. Because Chloe is a teenager, and there can be nothing more humiliating for a teenager to be seen with her mother! 😊

So with those thoughts in my mind, I found it over the top that Abi flies over to Procida to check on her girl. I felt that Abi should have let Chloe enjoy a wonderful summer in a wonderful place, without having a mother lurking around each corner.

Yet it was bittersweet to see how Chloe needs her mother, even in a wonderful place like Procida, because no matter the setting, it’s clear that Chloe isn’t having the best summer ever. And being a teenager, not wanting to need your parents, yet wanting to need your parents, is only adding more confusing in the head of Chloe.

While I initially not truly liked Abi’s decision to go to Procida, it turns out to be that in fact it was the best decision she could make, as it’s clear that not only she is needed, but also that Abi is slowly learning to move forward and even perhaps think about her own future, and not let it rule by her daughter.

Of course there are some awkward situations, as Abi finds herself slightly forced to spend time with her ex – husband, his fiancée and her family. I felt the odd one out in her place! But just like any real Italian would, Marisa’s family welcomed Abi like she was truly a member of the family!

This book is a treat, as we get two stories for the price of one, because we also get to know Loretta, the owner of Hotel Paradiso.
It’s clear from the start that Loretta has been through some dramatic moments in her, life, making her escape Capri and start a hotel in Procida.
Not only is it the heartbreak she endured after a phenomenal achievement, but she is also haunted by an event that took place not that much later.

No matter how much Loretta tries to hide her demons, with the appearance of Salvo, it all quickly resurfaces. To only show us that sometimes hurt and shame can linger for a very long time.

But it was also sweet to see how with the arrival of Salvo, Loretta now is able to put everything into perspective, and put it behind her, even being able to look positively towards her own future, and even daring to open up her heart again…

I found this a heart – warming story, about two women at different stages of life. But somehow, they  have both been holding back, because of their pasts.
In that matter, it was inspiring to see how one summer can impact people. Yes, even during that one summer mistakes are made, miscommunications happen and fear is still holding them somehow back.
But in this one specific summer, with meeting new and old people again, both Abi and Loretta find the courage to look forward to a future, a future with much more and brightful colours, because that is what opening your heart can do, make you take that plunge into the unknown.
And yes, of course it helps to realize your potential in a setting as wonderful as Procida! 😊  

To find a match, in more than one way…

Synopsis

Summer, 1816. A notorious rebel is about to meet her match…

Lady Georgiana Pendlebury is no stranger to breaking the rules of polite society. But when a so-called ‘friend’ invites her to a clandestine party, Georgiana is shocked to discover the event is more scandalous than even she could have imagined. So when a mysterious stranger offers help, she accepts, not realising their encounter will turn her life upside down.

Later that summer, Georgiana is invited to attend a house party at an infamous castle in Yorkshire. The gathering is a loosely veiled effort to arrange a marriage for the Duke of Northriding, who desperately needs an heir. Duke Gabriel Mauleverer has a terrible reputation as a rake, and Georgiana is happy to be a guest purely for the entertainment, but upon arrival, she is shocked to discover that the Duke is none other than the stranger who rescued her weeks earlier.

As the other ladies vie for the Duke’s attention, Georgiana is desperate to avoid their shocking secret getting out. But she finds herself caught, unable to avoid Gabriel’s gaze. Are they a threat to each other? Or could they be the answer to each other’s greatest desires?

My review

Lady Georgiana Pendlebury is not one that strictly follows the rules. But her not following rules is also what brings her in trouble during the summer of 1816, as someone she thought to be her friend invites her to a party that turns out to be more clandestine and scandalous than Georgie could ever imagine.
It’s only with the help of a stranger that Georgie manages to get away.
So obviously Georgie is shocked when she learns later that summer, during a house party in a castle in Yorkshire, that the Duke of Northriding, Gabriel Mauleverer, who has an infamous reputation, is the stranger who saved her.
And it’s that same Duke that is now looking for a wife to give him an heir…
While the other ladies are trying to gain Duke Gabriel’s attention, Georgie tries to avoid him at any cost, afraid that he will reveal her secret.
But nevertheless, she manages to catch the Duke’s eye…

Regency… a period that has for sure always interested and intrigued me, especially as the female characters are limited in what they can and are allowed to do, yet strong characters arise, not letting society dictate them.

And Georgie for sure is a strong character, not always following the rules and follows her instinct. But she is also the kind of person that learns from her mistakes, and knows when to lay low. Yet she is also a woman that is ready to cut off ties when she has been victim of the wrong kind of friendships and makes her position and thoughts known.
So even if being in the 19th century, Georgie is the kind of woman who stands her ground and doesn’t want to fit in if that means losing herself.
She is also a very curious woman, bringing her perhaps in situations that a young woman like her shouldn’t be in.

Perhaps it’s just that curiosity and her behaviour to those situations, that it took me a while to warm towards her. Especially after reading what truly happened at that infamous party. I could understand her curiosity, but it somehow didn’t felt right for Georgie to act that way? Curiosity can be understood, but I don’t know how realistic (yes yes, I know this is a fictional book 😊) her behaviour truly was. Because being as innocent as she was, I don’t know if anyone would do that?
But of course, if Georgie wouldn’t have acted that way, we wouldn’t have this story, right? 😊

As a reader, we obviously already know that the Duke will turn out to be that same stranger. That didn’t take away the fun I had reading how shocked Georgie was at that discovery! Because Georgie truly believed she would never encounter the stranger again, but was left flabbergasted to learn that she is actually staying in his castle.

The Duke for sure is a cheeky character, with an infamous reputation. Yet it’s to his credit that he understands what he must do for his family and is ready to do what must.
But it was also nice to see a kinder side of him, a protective side, an understanding side, as while perhaps he lures Georgie into marrying him, but quickly realizes that Georgie and he are alike in many ways.

There is an instant physical attraction between the main characters, but there is also a reluctance into giving in, especially from Georgie’s side. And perhaps as a feminist, it angered me that Gabriel wouldn’t just take no for an answer, even if it were perhaps a case of ‘I say no but perhaps I mean yes’. In my eyes ‘no’ means ‘no’ and everyone should respect that.
But once again, if Gabriel would have accepted Georgie’s answer, well, we wouldn’t have this book…

It was in a way sweet to see how slowly the two characters are learning to trust each other, to get to know each other and also just learn from each other.
Of course there are a few extra dramatic moments in this book, but while those moments were quickly resolved, it also gave Gabriel and Georgie the chance to understand their own feelings better, and see what has been clear for the readers from the start.

There are also a few side stories that perhaps during Regency would absolutely cause a scandal, but in current times wouldn’t be so scandalous. Yet for being in those times, I admired those characters for the choices they dared to make, not bothering what society may think.

This was an entertaining story, about a young woman making her own choices, even sometimes the wrong ones, but finding someone that matches her perfectly.
The spice for sure is present in this book, but while in other books that overshadowed the plot line, in this book it for sure didn’t, as it fitted greatly to the main characters and their persona.

To work together with the person you hate the most, to save your home…

Synopsis

He wasn’t banking on someone else taking the reins…

Lady Estelle Foxbrooke is done cleaning up the mess left by her wild parents. She’s got a plan: take the reins and save the family estate her way. But then she’s saddled with a business partner she’s hated all her life. He’s her twin brother’s worst enemy and looms in her path like a six-foot-four hurdle.

After a catastrophic business failure, rich and successful James Hunter-Savage has watched his dream life in London crash and burn. Forced to ditch the city for the Somerset countryside, he’s now living with his parents and expected to work with the infuriatingly attractive Estelle. She’s sharper than a whip, pushes all his buttons, and seems determined to break him.

As Estelle and James jockey for position, their explosive personalities combust into passion, sending Estelle’s plans to the edge of ruin. With James’s flimsy reputation in tatters, and the biggest event on the Foxbrooke calendar on the brink of collapse, will they realise their love is worth fighting for? Or are their hearts and hard work heading for the ultimate fall?

The Upper Crush is a laugh-out-loud, enemies-to-lovers, steamy, standalone, smalltown romantic comedy with a fiery country girl giving a cocky city boy a run for his money. No cheating or cliffhanger, but snort-laughs, swoons and a deliciously happy ending guaranteed in this sparkling and sizzling romcom!

My review

Lady Estelle Foxbrooke may be a lady in name, but she also carries around the burden of the wild life her parents have. Once again it’s up to her to save the day, and she is ready to take the reins and save the family estate. But this time it will be on her terms.
That is until she learns that her business partner is no one else but James Hunter – Savage, the man she has hated all her life, and her twin brother’s enemy.
But for her home, she is ready to work together with her nemesis.
Yet what Estelle doesn’t know, is that James has seen his life fall apart after one wrong decision. Living back with his excentric parents, James is forced to work with Estelle, in order to restore his reputation.
But working together is not easy, and it’s only because of Estelle’s despise of James. Because they both have explosive personalities, and also their visions clash.
Yet that doesn’t stop their feelings to shift into the passionate kind…

When I started with this book, I kinda knew what to expect, but in a way, I also didn’t know what to expect. I have to admit, I haven’t read the previous books of this series, and while everything what happened before, and all the dynamics were explained very clearly, I now have the need to read those parts too. Although that won’t be a too big of a sacrifice! 😊

I liked Estelle from the very start. Because it’s obvious she is a fierce woman, knowing her mind. But it’s also clear that somehow she is carrying around a lot of burden. Not only because her parents don’t have the most conventional relationship, but also because she is the one that has to come and save the day.
And with a strong-willed family like hers, it isn’t always that easy to stand her ground.

Yet we also see the very protective nature of Estelle. Because for sure she deeply despises James for the way he has behaved towards her twin brother. And for sure she won’t ever forget that or will let the past be in the past.

And that protectiveness turns her into a feisty tiger, ready to make James pay for what he has done. The things she does to make it clear to James what she thinks of him are just over the top hilarious. If only I could come up with some of her ideas! 😊

Nevertheless, no matter how much Estelle tries to fight it, it’s clear that there is something simmering between the pair. And wow, for sure that gave some serious sparks when the heat just got too much!
I have to say, I don’t know how Estelle managed to resist James that long! Because that man for sure knows how to get a woman all flustered!

But don’t be fooled by James’ behaviour. Because once I learnt about his real situation, and how he is struggling to not only save his face but so much more, I understood him so much better. His reputation is just a façade, while he is trying his best to just keep everything afloat.
And his own family isn’t truly helping around…

Beside the attraction between Estelle and James, it was just too funny to see them clashing. They have different views over how to make the event a success, each with their own reasons. And there isn’t a wrong side or a right side, as each side was comprehendible.

This isn’t only a steamy romance (but there is plenty of it 😊) but there is also a lot of room for several kind of drama, jeopardizing everything that has been building up till that point. By that drama we can see how fragile not only Estelle’s and James’ relationship is, but also how important openness and communication is…

I truly enjoyed reading this book, even if sometimes I wished that they would finally be getting to the point I wanted them to come, as there were coming curveballs after curveballs. All while I just wanted to see their happiness!

But most important, I truly enjoyed reading how people may have a certain idea of you, only learning by spending time together (forced or not), that to each story there are two sides. And that we never know what is hidden behind the façade, who is hidden behind a reputation, until we take the time to discover those bits, by exposing layer after layer.

This was a great book to read and made me very eager to discover what happened previously as I know that Estelle’s siblings for sure will be just as amazing to get to know as Estelle was in this book!

Primrose Woods, the perfect place to start over again

Synopsis

Primrose Hall is more than Jackson Moody and his fiancée Pia’s home – it’s the heart of the community.

The Sunday craft fairs in the renovated stables are a popular draw for the locals and tourists alike, enticed by the beautiful surroundings of Primrose Woods as well as the irresistible goodies on display. But for Sophie Wright they’re a chance to forge a new life and a new business. After leaving behind a turbulent relationship, Sophie is starting again – and romance is the last thing on her mind.

Drop dead gorgeous Tom Moody, Lord of the Manor Jackson’s newly-discovered older brother, is loving being a member of the Primrose Hall community. Content to muck in where he can be helpful, he’s just happy to be part of the family. But when tragedy strikes, Pia needs Tom more than he ever expected. And when Tom needs a shoulder to cry on, Sophie might be the perfect person to help – if only she hadn’t sworn off romance for good…

Join the gang at Primrose Hall for laughter, tears, friendship and romance, perfect for fans of Cathy Bramley, Heidi Swain and Julie Houston.

My review

After the end of her relationship, Sophie Wright is ready to start over. She cannot wait to her new life to start, together with her new business.
And she for sure counts herself lucky, as at first she had the help from a friend, and now she is lucky to have found her own place, surrounded by the Primrose Woods. A fresh start, with no room for romance.
That is until at the Sunday craft fairs in Primrose Hall she meets Tom. Tom is Lord of the Manor Jackson’s older and just found brother. While the relationship with Jackson at moments is still not easy at moments, Tom loves having found his family. He is ready to help anywhere he can, while trying to think where his future may be. And after breaking up with his girlfriend, love is the last thing on his mind.
But when tragedy strikes, and Pia, Jackson’s fiancée needs Tom’s help, it Sophie that is there for Tom…

What a delight it was returning to Primrose Hall! After the previous books I was left with a few questions so obviously I was thrilled to have a whole new book!

Sophie for sure was a great character to discover. I admired her choices, as how she managed to get out of a relationship before it became really toxic.
And I admired her how determined she was not only to start all over again, but she was also determined to finally chase her own dreams and find a way to make it all work.

Of course, seeing how her relationship ended, I understood why she clearly states that she has no time for romance anymore, and how she will focus only on herself from now on. After what she has been through, she absolutely deserves to create her own happiness.
I liked it how she was able to see how bad her relationship was getting, even becoming dangerous, a downward spiral. So she took the matter in her own hands, before things got out of control.

It was also heart – warming to see how she found a helping in perhaps the least obvious person, but seeing how that friendship evolve, was truly amazing.
But Sophie isn’t the kind of person that is just on the receiving side of help, because she herself is also an amazing friend. Whenever she can, she doesn’t hesitate to help, and she just shows kindness to everyone and everywhere.

And it’s her kind character that makes her connect with Tom, together with an alike ‘sad’ story. Because Tom for sure also deserve all the possible hearts. I can only try to imagine how it feels to find your family. And while his father has been very accepting, it was heart – breaking to see Tom’s attempts to bond with Jackson…

But this situation isn’t one where there is party right and one party wrong… normally siblings grow up together, and that bond is there automatically. But when you just meet as adults, it’s way more difficult and it for sure takes time to get accustomed to each other.

While the situation with Jackson isn’t an easy one, it was sweet to see how Tom finds himself belonging somewhere. The missing pieces have finally been found and put into the right place.
But that is the charm of Primrose Hall and everyone living around the Woods, it’s such a welcoming and open community, where there is room for everyone!

In this book we also have some more Pia & Jackson – time which was absolutely delightful! Perhaps at moments I found Jackson a bit selfish and thoughtless, but let’s not forget where he came from. So even those few missteps are easily covered by the blanked of love! 😊

Yet the main focus of this book is definitely on Sophie and Tom. And they for sure deserve that spotlight! Because they show us not only how a friendship can evolve, but also how sometimes we let fear of rejection hold us back. We see clearly the feelings change into something deeper, but both parties are aware of what has been said in the past, how neither of them was ready yet to love again. And what they have now, is too tender to be jeopardized by perhaps not reciprocated feelings.

But this book is also about family and the sometimes difficult dynamics in it. We see how everyone wants to protect everyone, only having the opposite results sometimes. While things are done out of love, sometimes it’s not always the best choice.
Nevertheless, we see that family loves every member unconditionally, despite the errors, and no matter how long someone has been in the family group. And we also see how much a family wants to help, again unconditionally and full of love.

This was once again a beautiful, heart – warming story, set in a wonderful place, filled with so many nice characters. I found myself surrounded by love, kindness and generosity. Jill Steeples wrote a magnificent story about characters that even if they are determined not to fall for it, deserve all the best kind of love in their lives.

When your Gran needs your help, you would do anything, wouldn’t you?

Synopsis

A Greek island holiday. A fake-dating pact. A chance at true love?

After losing her job as a book scout, hopeless romantic Evie needs a fresh start. So when she hears that her eccentric grandmother has just taken on a small bookshop in Santorini, Evie jumps at the chance to visit her.

But life on the island is not as idyllic as it first seems. Gran has a tempestuous relationship with her landlord and he’s threatening to take the bookshop away from her. So when Gran asks Evie to fake a romance with her landlord’s Greek God of a grandson, Georgios, to keep the family on side, she reluctantly agrees.

As the sun sets on Evie’s Greek holiday, can she save the bookshop – and fake date her way to love?

My review

Evie truly enjoyed being a book scout, until her new boss decided to go a different direction, making Evie end up without a job.
Finding a new job isn’t that easy, and as she needs a fresh start and decide which direction to take next, the chance to visit her excentric Gran in Santorini is the perfect getaway.
But Evie doesn’t only go there to visit Floretta as she truly misses her Gran, but also because Floretta is known to act impulsively. Especially now Floretta has gotten married once again, and took over a small bookshop. A bookshop the landlord is threating to take away from Floretta. So with Evie in Santorini, Floretta thinks it would be perfect to get on the landlord’s good side if Evie would be dating his grandson Georgios, or rather, fake – dating…
To protect her Gran, Evie agrees with the scheme. But as her holiday comes to an end, will she be able to save the bookshop? And what about Georgios, as it may have started as faking to date him, but was is truly all just pretend?

When I picked up this book, I had never heard of a book scout before. And I have to say, that for sure seemed a wonderful job to have: reading books to see if they would work on the big screen. And as Evie was responsible for the romantic books, well I actually envied her!
But that wasn’t the only thing I could relate to, with a character as Evie. Because she isn’t the most extravert character, and prefers to sit quietly in a corner, totally enthralled by the books she is reading.
She doesn’t even truly dares to stand up after being let go, she just meekly packs her stuff and leaves.

Her persona is the total opposite of the rest of her family… her mother is a fancy lawyer, her sister is make a name of her own as an actress, and then there is Floretta, her Gran.
Floretta is a very outspoken person, very extravert. She loves falling in love, and has been married many many times.
I have to admit, reading how each of her husbands left the scene, for sure made me a bit suspicious of her… I would never dare to get on her wrong side, as I would honestly fear for my life! And even if Floretta is still walking around freely, I never was completely sure of her innocence! Luckily at the end of the book, a lot is made clear! 😊

With fake – dating as a plot, we often think about two parties agreeing to pretend of being together for a greater good. But I liked it how the author gave this trope a twist, as Evie is only seeing Georgios to save the bookshop.
While perhaps it is not an honest thing to do, faking an interest in a person and even playing him, it fitted the story. But it was also good to see how that ploy completely backfired, as Evie and Georgios are actually growing closer together. And while Evie believes she is still pretending, the pretence is long over.

As Evie spends more and more time with Georgios, she dares to get out of her rather closed world. Initially she doesn’t agree on everything Georgios has planned, but slowly she finds the courage to get out of her comfort zone and she starts doing things she never imagined she would be doing.

And Georgios for sure shows patience and understanding towards Evie. He doesn’t push her to do what she truly doesn’t want to do. But his presence somehow makes Evie to want to be more courageous. And that was lovely to see, how a person without doing something that exceptional, makes you want to do unthinkable things!

Floretta is, like I said, a force to reckon with. but her passion for the bookshop for sure also sparks from each page. She invested a lot in the place, wanting it to make something spectacular. And I could totally see the complete picture, a place to lose yourself in this wonderful place, but also having that little extra thing that nowhere else can be found.

I found myself not only totally falling in love with not only the bookshop, but also with Santorini itself. It felt like I was discovering the island alongside Evie, feeling the charm of it.
All that on top of reading a wonderful story about how the desire to save a place that matters can turn into a place that feels like home, finding a place where you belong and even a place to find love.

When you need a date, an upgrade is just perfect!

Synopsis

Gigi isn’t looking for the one. Just someone…!

As she gears up for her sister’s destination wedding in Hawaii, the countdown is on for Gigi to find a date. Just someone to prove to her friends and family that she’s ok, and to stop the pitying looks would be great!

Of course she can’t wait to be bridesmaid for her sister, but it’s just not ideal that the best man is also her ex… especially when he is bringing his hot new reality star girlfriend!

But when Gigi arrives at the hotel in Hawaii to find there has been a mix-up with her room, and she’s been upgraded to a suite, things start to look up. Not only is the room bigger than her entire flat, but the staff are waiting on her hand and foot, and she’s being treated like royalty!

Something isn’t quite right, but The Suite Life suits Gigi, and why shouldn’t she pamper herself while she mends her broken heart? It may even lead to her finding the perfect date after all…

A laugh-out-loud, friends to lovers, close proximity romantic comedy from million-copy bestseller Portia MacIntosh.

My review

Gigi is happy for her sister, as the destination wedding date in Hawaii is approaching. But what she isn’t looking forward to, is seeing her ex and his new girlfriend. Especially as  Gigi knows that everyone will look at her with pity, as it’s clear she isn’t over her ex yet.
So all that Gigi needs, is to find a man, that she can bring as a date, to show that she is doing just fine.
After a mix – up at the hotel, Gigi finds herself upgraded to a suite, and has everyone at her service. While she doesn’t understand what is happening, this shot of good luck could work in her favour to find the most perfect date ever.
And with a new found accomplice in the form of tourist Donnie, the search for it has begun and has more spark than Gigi ever imagined!

It’s no secret how much I love this author and with how much eagerness I start each new book. And how much did I enjoy reading this one!!!

From the very start, I warmed towards Gigi. Not because she is something extraordinary, or has a life to be envy of. But she is just a regular woman, very recognizable and relatable.
The only thing that made me feel sorry for her, is how she being seen by those around her, as she saw not only her relationship end, but only knowing that her ex would always be around, being her brother – in – law – to – be his best friend…
And it saddened me to see how that ex seems to have traded her for a reality star, making Gigi doubt herself even more…

So of course it felt like karma when upon her arrival in Hawaii, she has been upgraded to the best room of the hotel. And not just *a* room, but a real suite, with a personal pool! I know I would be screaming in delight seeing all the perks I would be getting!

Obviously our main character has to face some awkward situations she finds herself in, but those moments, while humiliating for Gigi, for sure made me laugh out loud! Yet I also know that if I were in her shoes, I would never ever get out of my room – excuse me, my suite – ever again!

Being single myself (for way too long…) I know how difficult it can be to find the perfect man. That made it very easy to relate to Gigi’s quest in finding the perfect date. While Gigi only needs a date for one day only, for sure each man she encounters, it is so obvious that she encounters every possible cringe – worthy cliché of the dating pool…
Luckily she finds an ally in Donnie, a tourist himself at the resort, but being bored as he is also on his own…

And having a purpose on his stay in Hawaii for sure is more alluring than just staying at the pool or in his room that seems like a real nightmare! Poor Donnie!

But Donnie is also a great character! Not only is he being Gigi’s wingman, but he is also very protective of her, even if they have just met. He doesn’t leave her on her own until he gets the clear – off from Gigi, and on several occasions, he appears to be the one that saves the day, on more than just one occasion!

I truly liked the blooming friendship between Gigi and Donnie, as not only have they been through relatable things, but they connect in a way that was just so lovely to read about. Sometimes you meet someone so randomly and unexpectedly yet there is an undeniable connection, making you feel at ease with someone who you have just met. And this connection was what made me keep my fingers crossed, hoping that Gigi would quickly see what was right in front of her, instead of pursuing her quest on finding the perfect date.

When it’s clear why Gigi is getting a preferential treatment, for me it was rather to figure out the truth. And I for sure could understand the reason for secrecy, especially seeing how differently people started to treat Gigi after making the wrong assumptions.

I truly devoured this book, as it was exactly what I expected from this amazing author. No, I am actually lying, as this story even went beyond my expectations!
I had several laughs over the situations Gigi finds herself in, got a bit angry over how everyone around her behaved towards her, I envied Gigi’s evolving relationship with Donnie, I admired Gigi’s altruism and the list just goes on and on and on!

Portia MacIntosh once again proved what an amazing and talented author she is, and set once again the bar very high for her next stories! A bar that without any doubt will be reached very easily! 😊

A return to home can bring so much more and else…

Synopsis

Aurora Henderson and Leo McKendrick were love’s young dream when they first dated as teenagers.

But like many a first love, parents, life, and distance got in the way, and the couple lost touch. Now, twenty years later, Aurora – Rory to her friends – needs a break. Burnt out from her teaching career and longing to write a novel, Rory heads to the idyllic village of Roseford for a summer of writing and relaxation.

Leo needs a change too. Ex-pat life in Australia has come to a sticky end so the opportunity to run his family’s B&B, Roseford Villas, for the summer is too good to turn down.

Neither Rory nor Leo believe in fate, but when Leo opens the door to his latest guest, he might just have to reconsider. And when a sultry summer fills with nostalgia and memories and six weeks flies by too fast, love’s young dream might just get a second chance…

Romance and friendship, community and colourful characters mean Fay Keenan’s latest story is perfect for fans of Holly Martin, Cathy Bramley and Jo Bartlett.

My review

Taking a break from teaching, Rory finally decides to chase her dreams and write a novel. She heads off to the village of Roseford, as she can also do research on the lives of what inspired her.
Only for Rory to get the shock of her life, when she arrives at the B&B she is going to stay. Because the person who welcomes her, is no one else but Leo, her first love. Her first love, who moved with his parents on the other side of the world.
Leo has not so long returned from Australia, in need of a change too. So this summer, while awaiting to start his new job, he runs his family’s B&B, Roseford Villas.
A whole summer filled with memories and nostalgia, could it be that those feelings was more than just a first young love? But what when life starts again after summer? Will it just be a short reminiscence? Or will this second chance have a chance to finally last?

Don’t we all remember our first love? And the odds are that one way or another that first relationship didn’t last.
But no matter how things ended, that first love is and will always be something special.
And admit it, don’t you once in a while wonder ‘what if…’
Life can take you in a whole different direction, even at the other side of the world. But what when life brings you unexpectedly back together?

When first meeting Rory, I was a bit in awe of her. While she is a bit tired of (the uncertainty of) her job as a teacher, she finds the courage to chase her dream. I can imagine it cannot be easy writing a book, no matter how much inspiration you have.
Her passion for books is something I absolutely have in common with her, and her wish to write her own novel for sure made sense to me.

That same desire also makes sure she is determined to get to the bottom of a love affair of the past, even if it ended tragically.

It was sweet to read how serendipity works in this book, because what are the odds that Rory is staying in the B&B that Leo is running momentarily, to help his aunt and uncle…

Leo’s story saddened me, as he left his life in Australia behind to start again. Not only did his marriage fail, but he is also still literally hurting from the accident he was in.
But I could understand his need to get away. And sometimes doing the completely opposite of your actual job, like running a B&B, is the perfect way to reorder your thoughts and your life.

Of course, both characters have been through several things, and they have both grown and matured since the last time they saw each other.
Yet it was so sweet and tender to see how Rory and Leo know that there is still something there, beneath the surface. But they also know that they have to talk about the several elephants in the room. And also need to discuss what they both expect from each other.

But they also support each other, and are so in sync with each other. Leo encourages Rory but also understands that Rory needs to be on her own, to write. And Rory on the other hand is ready to take time with Leo, and give him the opportunity to explain things on his own time.

This was a lovely story to read, about not only second chances, bus also about how unexpected life can go. We see how that first love affects us, and how sometimes crossing paths again can give you the closure or the continuation you need. We also see how much can change over the years, but also how much of what makes us *us*, is still there, no matter what.
And obviously, it was amazing to return to the place where many friends are residing. Fay Keenan for sure wrote a wonderful book, perfectly matching the previous books of the series!

Doesn’t everyone deserve a chance to start over?

Synopsis

Luckless Lilah Clarke needs a big break, but getting caught wrecking a stall at the Glenbriar Fair was not what she had in mind – especially when the man who catches her is as hot as a summer’s day and sends her heart racing.

Charity campaigner Aidan McBride has returned to Glenbriar after a long absence to discover the love of his life dating his cousin, his cottage in tatters, and his beloved bees gone. When he catches Lilah destroying his mum’s stall and discovers the reason, he sees something in her he can’t explain – or resist.

Feeling sorry for her, he offers her a job, and she reluctantly accepts. What other options does she have? Now, it isn’t just Aidan’s new bees that are buzzing. Lilah dreams of Aidan being hers, but for someone with a background like hers, he’s well out of her reach.

Still stung by the loss of his ex, Aidan struggles with his ever-growing attraction to Lilah. But if he doesn’t spit out exactly how he feels about her before her past catches up with her, he stands to lose the real love of his life.

My review

Lilah Clarke didn’t grow up in the best of circumstances, and in fact, still isn’t living in the best. When her brother brings her in an awkward situation at the Glenbriar Fair, she has to face Aidan McBride. Aidan has just recently returned from a long trip to arise more awareness after losing his father. And has discovered that his girlfriend is now engaged to his cousin.
Upon his return, he is shocked to learn that not only his cottage is in a terrible state, but also that his beloved bees have all gone, while he asked his mother to look after everything.
As it’s clear he needs help to clean everything back up, he offers Lilah the chance to work for him, an offer Lilah reluctantly accepts.
A reluctance that slowly disappears, as Lilah gets to know Aidan better. And for the first time she starts to have feelings for someone. But how could someone like Aidan ever fall for someone like Lilah, with her background? And she cannot forget, that he is also still hurt from the betrayal of his ex…

So here we are again, happily returning to Glenbriar… this is a series that got me hooked, and I have loved each and every story. For those who haven’t read any of the previous stories, don’t worry as you can read them all on their own. But trust me when I say that quickly you’ll find yourself wanting to read them all!

Somehow it felt like this was somehow a very sad story. Well, at least what the characters had been through before, and how it affected them.

It was so sad to read how Lilah didn’t have an easy childhood, how difficult it was for her to grow up, and then also face the nastiness of other people. And even now she is carrying that same burden, because even now things aren’t going that well for her.
Yet it was so easy to spot that Lilah wants her life to take a turn for the better, and she wants to shake off all the bad things that happened.
I found it also saddening, reading how she never has been truly in love with someone… Okay, she is still a young lady, but even that her age I can say that I have fallen in love (not that it was always reciprocated, but that’s a whole different story 😊).

It’s clear that Lilah has missed many things in her life, like a happy childhood, a loving family, being surrounded by love. And that is something that every child should have in their life…
Yet despite everything, and no matter how deep in the gutter her family is, she also still wants the best for them. Even if her own brother brings her into trouble, she wants even him to get his life back on track. Just not at her own cost…

‘Thanks’ to her upbringing, she is also a bit wary. She is ready to fight or fly when needed. She is ready to fly off when she meets Aidan for the first time. And she doesn’t truly trust him when he offers her a job.
But I  liked her spirit, as she somehow also is a bit proud. When Aidan offers her a job to clean his cottage, she doesn’t want his pity and makes that very clear to him.

So seeing her slowly changing was a real delight. Seeing her losing her wariness, making new friends, even putting her trust in people was so sweet. If there is someone who deserve a chance to redeem her situation, it for sure is Lilah.
And of course it was great to see how people change their minds about her once they get to know her better. Because how often is it that our own prejudices about someone are wrong?

In that aspect is Aidan truly a wonderful character. It would have been so easy to just go his own way, and let Lilah solve her own problems.
But that is not who Aidan is…
Of course he pities Lilah initially, but as he needs help, he sees a solution that will help the both of them. And he truly believes that everyone deserves a second chance. Just how admirable is that?

Now, he has had his own share of bad times… Losing his father was just terrible and while Aidan didn’t handle things perfectly, I could understand why he needed some time off.
I have to admit although, I wouldn’t be so kind to my own mother if I would return home and everything is just pure chaos…
And then the situation with his ex and his cousin, I wouldn’t be able to keep my calm in that situation either!
But that’s Aidan.. keeping his cool on the outside and somehow finding it hard to express his feelings…

It would be easy to say that Lilah is the one with the most issues in this book, and that thanks to Aidan, and their evolving relationship, it all fall into place. But that first of all isn’t true and second, it wouldn’t do any justice to the complete book…
Because it’s both Lilah and Aidan that are doing some serious ‘growing up’. Slowly they learn to trust each other, they learn to listen and they learn what love means.

That is exactly the power of this book, as the author shows us that no matter how difficult life can get, it can take one person to put their faith in us, to have a turning point and make things better.
And while perhaps I expected more revolving around the Bee Barn itself, Aidan showed me a side of bees I never thought of. And even if I will still stay far away from these buzzing animals, I have perhaps appreciated them a little bit more! 😊

Can you truly escape from a nightmare?

Synopsis

Passion, obsession, cruelty, control. There is no limit to how far some people will go for love.

Duncan Stone is one of the country’s most eligible and handsome bachelors, and he wants to take me, Callie Parker, on a date.

At first I am surprised and flattered, the envy of my friends. Then when our whirlwind romance escalates and he asks me to move in with him, it’s like a dream come true.

But as I get to really know my new boyfriend, my fairytale turns into a nightmare. Duncan is no Prince Charming. He is the Devil.

Isolated from my friends and family, watched day and night, a prisoner in my own life, I know if I am going to survive, I need to escape.

When a chance encounter with an old friend throws me a lifeline, I realise this is my live or die moment, and I find a hiding place deep in the Norfolk countryside.

I’m supposed to feel safe here, so why do I hear footsteps outside my hideaway late at night, and sense that someone is watching me?

Is it paranoia, or has Duncan managed to find me?
Or perhaps the danger is closer to home than I realise.

My review

Callie Parker cannot believe it when Duncan Stone, one of the most eligible bachelors, shows an interest in her.
What starts as an amazing romance, quickly turns into something else. Because from the moment Callie moves in with Duncan, her life turns into a living hell.
Duncan is anything but a caring boyfriend, and isn’t adverse in using force to turn Callie into the compliant woman he wants.
Even if Callie totally isolated from everyone and everything, she knows that she needs to escape, or that things will end very badly.
With the help of an old friend, she manages to hide in the Norfolk countryside. Callie should be safe, but she cannot shake off the feeling that she is being watched… Is it just a case of paranoia? Or has Duncan found her, despite the measurements Callie took?

Sometimes, when I read a book, I hope that the author had a lot of imagination while writing is, as it was way too shocking to read how some characters behaved.

And in this book, Duncan shows the ugliest possible side of people. Not only his violent streaks or his bullying are terrible to read, but also the way how he manages to gaslight Callie…

Because as a reader, as an outsider, it’s easy to tell Callie to get away from Duncan. But we see here clearly, how such a manipulator is able to make Callie doubt herself, how to alienate Callie from everyone, family and friends.
It was even heartbreaking to read how such a confident young woman like Callie turned into a terrified woman, having to endure everything Duncan puts her through, and not having one single person on her side.

That is also unfortunately the truth, as even the people the closest to you, aren’t able to see what you are going through, and believe the lies that are being told, or even believe that there is something wrong with you.

Yet while most of the time I pitied Callie, I also admired her when she finally decided that she had enough. It must not have been easy for her to take that step, but after everything she had to endure, she knows that it could only end in one way, a bad one.

Once she gets away, it was again heartbreaking seeing her so terrified of every noise, every sudden moment, even every act of kindness…
But it was lovely to see how slowly, very slowly Callie opens up, becomes her former self again and learns to trust again. Yet she has been through a lot, and she never loses her wariness.

And it’s that same wariness that keeps her on point of everything… that same wariness that makes her realize what truly is going on even in the quiet countryside of Norfolk.
I was a bit shocked when that specific truth came out, especially as initially we see a different side… only shows that you can never really know a person…

This book is anything but an easy book to read, as we see how someone with cruel intentions is able to turn something as beautiful as love into a real nightmare. A nightmare that doesn’t seem to stop, no matter what Callie tries to do.
It’s terrible to see how one person is able to break another person, pure out of selfishness and feeling superior…

Yet there is also a positive turn in this book, because help can come in unexpected ways, and even the most hideous bruises, physical and emotional ones, can be healed with having the right kind of people by your side. People that are ready to help you, fight with you, no matter what. And in the end, it’s that kind of people we need in our lives, the good ones, the ones that are able to chase away all the bad ones.

Keri Beevis wrote for sure a difficult story, as I could almost feel Callie’s pain myself. But sometimes we need books like this one, to remind us that it’s easier said than done to just walk away, that gaslighting is something all too real (unfortunately…). But that we also have learn to actual listen to the signals and offer a helping hand to those that are screaming for help…