Tizi’s Book Review

Can independence and love go hand in hand?

Synopsis

Welcome to your happy place…

Stella Hutton has everything under control. Her high-flying career as a lawyer relies on her keeping a calm, rational head on her shoulders. She hasn’t got time for love, or space for a man in her glamorous new apartment, a converted warehouse overlooking the rugged cliffs of Micklewick Bay.

But when a handsome stranger walks into the Jolly Sailors pub, with a sparkle in his blue eyes and a head of dark curls, everything changes. Making a beeline for her, Alex Bainbridge introduces himself while a gorgeous Labrador waits at his feet. Electricity instantly sparks between Stella and Alex, as her heart flips inside her chest and her usual strict rules about men fly out the window…

Stella thinks her crush will pass. But every time she bumps into Alex — on her daily jog along the promenade, at the supermarket, inside the Happy Hartes Bookshop — her feelings only grow stronger. Her close-knit group of friends have never seen her like this before. After thirty years of being happily single, has Stella finally met the one? Or will her cherished independence sabotage her chance at a forever love?

Escape to Micklewick Bay in this uplifting, feel-good page-turner, perfect for fans of Heidi Swain, Jenny Colgan and Phillipa Ashley.

My review

Being raised by a single mother, Stella Hutton is a strong, independent woman. Even her demanding job as a lawyer isn’t able to lose her calmness and she can rationalise everything. Recently moved to a fancy new apartment, a converted warehouse in Micklewick Bay.  The last thing she needs or wants, is a man in her life.
Yet when in the Jolly Sailors pub she sees a handsome strange with blue eyes, Stella is flabbergasted to see what his presence ignites in her.
And then she learns that Alex Bainbridge and his Labrador are actually her new neighbours…
Even if Stella believes that her feelings will pass, the more they bump into each other and get to know each other better, the stronger her feelings get. But will Stella finally believe in love, and not seeing it as losing her independence? And how will her recent discoveries affect her life?

First of all, what a delight to return to Micklewick Bay! I have fallen so much in love with this lovely place and its inhabitants. And from the close unit of friends, I was very curious to read Stella’s story and I wanted to know who would steal her heart!

I knew beforehand that Stella was a very strong and independent woman. Being raised by just her mother, Stella grew up learning to mend for herself, to chase her dreams herself and not depend on someone else.
While it is admirable, it was in a way also a bit sad to see how that independence also made her somehow not letting love in.

Both Stella and her mother have worked hard to get where they are now, and I truly admired their determination and persistence they show. They know what they want to achieve and go for it.
The love between mother and daughter is so obvious, as it has been the two of them for a very long time. Even if the identity of her father is still a dark cloud looming over them…

Of course it’s understandable that Stella wants to know who her father is, especially as her own mother won’t spill any bean at all… And even if I didn’t agree with Stella snooping around at her mother’s place, I could see why she did that.

I have to say, I was deeply disappointed when the truth came out. Because what happens next, is not something I would anyone to have to go through… We see a side of mankind, a selfish side, a dishonest side, a side that doesn’t care about anyone else, just about its own gain…

Luckily Stella has Alex by her side. Alex, wow… in this series I didn’t think anyone could beat Bear, but Alex for sure is just as great!
He is funny, kind, generous, and he also feels that Stella needs to let things go at her pace. He sees Stella as an independent woman, and he knows that he has to be patient with her, taking those walls down one brick at the time.
It was funny to see how he is being new in Micklewick Bay, but that is also the perfect for him to spend more time with Stella, as she shows him the heart and soul of this wonderful place.

There is also room for another side story, and while perhaps getting more depth into these bits didn’t fit the romance side of this book, my curiosity about that storyline for sure was peeked! 😊

I absolutely adored getting to know Stella so much better. Stella is perhaps the more closed character of the friends, but having her in the spotlight, getting to know her to the core, for sure made me appreciate and like this character even more.
And yes, it was also hilarious to see how this strong woman, no matter how adamant she is, falls into the wonderful trap that love is.
Oh and of course it was delightful to see the group of friends together again, seeing how their stories are evolving and how supportive they are of each other!

Love, that once again we see in all its aspects, a new love, love for friends, love for family, and even a shot at love at an ‘older’ age. Because it doesn’t matter how old or young you are, love will find you and give you a shot to experience that wonderful feeling.

Summer days aren’t always filled with sunshine…

Synopsis

Welcome to your happy place…

As summer comes to the tranquil shores of Micklewick Bay, Maggie Marsay is on cloud nine. She can barely keep up with orders for her handmade teddy bears, turning her crafting hobby into a thriving business. And after trying for a baby for some time, she has joyful news to share with her devoted husband Bear who she lives with in an idyllic clifftop cottage alongside their cheeky labrador.

But an unexpected visitor casts a shadow over Maggie’s sun-drenched bliss. Robyn, a ghost from the past Maggie hasn’t seen in twelve long years, arrives on their doorstep. What could have brought Robyn back into Maggie’s life after so long? Is she truly sorry for her past mistakes, or is she up to her old tricks?

Maggie welcomes Robyn into their home, trying her best to forgive and forget. But when Robyn starts to drive a wedge between her and Bear, Maggie’s close-knit group of friends and neighbours rally around. Can they help Maggie weather this storm and find her way back to happily ever after? Or is trouble here to stay?

Escape to Micklewick Bay in an uplifting, feel-good page-turner for fans of Heidi Swain, Jenny Colgan and Phillipa Ashley.

My review

With the arrival of the summer, Maggie Marsay couldn’t be any happier. She is absolutely deeply in love with her husband Bear, who adores her too. Her business of handmade teddy bears is gaining more and more popularity. And after trying for so long, and having been heartbroken before, the
long – wished for baby may be finally on its way.
So when Maggie receives a letter from her cousin Roby, she doesn’t know what to do. Because Robyn caused many problems in the past already for Maggie. Could it be that Robyn truly learnt from her mistakes and is a changed person?
Being the kind – hearted people they are, Maggie and Bear welcome Robyn in their home. But it doesn’t take long before Robyn manages to drive a wedge in this normally so solid couple. Is this wonderful couple strong enough to survive the storm that Robyn is? Or will it all end in heartbreak?

Is there a lovelier couple than Maggie and Bear? I truly don’t think so! Their love just sparks from each page, and it for sure set the bar very high for any f my future partners! Take some lessons from Bear you guys! That is how a man should love a woman! 😊
And of course Maggie is also an inspiration of how a woman should love her man!
Because it isn’t all the time about the big gestures, but it’s also the small things, a kiss here, a hug there, understanding each other and being in sync that makes it all work!

And Maggie cannot wait to share her great news to Bear, as she finally managed to get pregnant. Even if they are fictional characters, I couldn’t be more over the moon for them, as it’s so clear what amazing parents they will be!

At first I couldn’t understand why Maggie was so reluctant when receiving Robyn’s letter. Because Maggie’s behaviour is so out of character, I just couldn’t match the Maggie I know with the Maggie that is cautious and even holding a grudge?
But after learning about what happened to her many years ago, well, I could understand her a lot better.
And even if I was wary myself, I liked it how Bear, the voice of reason, still keep on believing in the good in people, and keep on believing that people can change.

Unfortunately, from the moment Robyn enters the scene, I absolutely disliked her. The way she just assumes that she can stay at Maggie’s and Bear’s place, the way she is flaunting herself, how she is getting too touchy with Bear. And then I am not talking about how everything seems to revolve around her, her jealous streaks, and her rudeness to Maggie’s friends and family! And most important, her dodgy past, because I didn’t believe her story for even one moment!
It angered me so much to ese how Robyn is jeopardizing everything, and is able to plant seeds of doubts, is able to put cracks in one of the most solid relationships. And for what cause?

Nevertheless, no matter how much Robyn tries, there is still so much love present in this book. Despite the hiccups, Maggie and Bear clearly still love each other, they can also count on the love, care and even worry from their closest friends and their family.
And that was truly beautiful to see, how love can be stronger than the nastiest schemes and plots.

Every couple in the world has to face a more difficult moment, no matter how great the love is. It broke my heart yes, but even with the cloud of doubts and secretiveness, I had no doubt that this couple would be endgame.
Because a love that strong, like Maggie’s and Bear’s, is strong even to face a hurricane like Robyn is. Perhaps it may take some time and serious hurdles to overcome, but a way back together can and must be found again.

I absolutely devoured this book, even I got at moments jealous of having such a great love…
But my jealousy didn’t outweigh the so many beautiful feelings in this book, especially the feelings concerning love. And not only love for a partner, but also for your best of friends, for your family. And as a united front, these kind of love can overcome everything!

When something that has been missing, could it be closer than thought?

Synopsis

Poppy Taylor has always been content with her life in Pelican Crossing, but as she watches her youngest daughter get married, she can’t help but feel that there’s something missing. Never would Poppy have predicted the dramatic transformation that occurs as she reunites with an old love and makes a choice that will reshape everything.

Cam Mitchell has always felt a strong attraction to Poppy, and when she reveals her plans to make changes in her life, Cam sees it as his chance to finally reveal his feelings. But Cam’s hopes are crushed when he discovers Poppy’s past love is back in the picture.

Cam becomes increasingly sceptical of the man from Poppy’s past – a feeling that escalates when he uncovers his shocking plans for Pelican Crossing.

With their town now at risk, Cam and Poppy must work together to save their home and find their own happy ending. But will their feelings for each other be enough to overcome the obstacles in their way?

For fans of small-town romances and heartwarming stories of second chances, Pelican Crossing is a must-read. A captivating tale of love, loyalty, and the fight to protect what matters most.

My review

It took a while for Poppy Taylor to get over the loss of her beloved husband. But seeing their youngest daughter getting married, makes Poppy think that perhaps it’s time to make changes in her live. Music to Cam Mitchell’s ears, as he always felt an attraction to his friend.
But when an old acquaintance from Poppy’s past resurfaces, not only are Cam’s hopes crushed, but that same presence may jeopardize everything their home and whole Pelican Crossing stands for. With joined forces, can Cam and Poppy protect their homes, and have their happy ending, preferably together too?

Starting a new series from a known author always fears me a little bit… will I love this series as much as the previous one? Won’t a change of scenery also give me a change of heart? And while this lovely author obviously wrote great books with great characters before, their world couldn’t be further away than mine. So perhaps this time, with the same circumstances, the love won’t be that great from my side? So many questions, with only one way to get an answer… just read the book!
And rather quickly I discovered how unfounded my fears were, because I absolutely loved this first book in a brand new series!

How can someone not like the character of Poppy? She is lovely in every possible way. She absolutely loved her husband Jack, and still does, even if time has passed since he passed away. She treasures every moment they spent together, having a wonderful chemistry, bond and alliance.
But she is also an amazing mother, loving her daughters deeply. And just like the most wonderful mother, she loves them equally, even if they have their own challenges. And just like a real mother, she wishes them all the best, even if it saddens her in a perhaps selfish way, that the women now have their lives of their own.

With the kind of love she had, it was understandable that it takes some time to be ready to make a change. But I loved it to see how even if changes are made, it doesn’t diminish the love she had for him.
And it was sweet in a way to see how Poppy realizes that the change she wants to make, is closer than she thought it would be. Because let’s be honest, for us readers it’s crystal-clear that her friendship with Cam runs deeper than just friends. They are practically already doing the couple – things without being an actual couple (the platonic things 😊).

And Cam, he is just as delightful as Poppy is! He is the kind of friend that would do anything for you, he is an amazing father, an understanding person and also a forgiving one. it wouldn’t be for anyone to be so understanding towards his ex, seeing how his marriage ended. Only shows us that there still are good people on this world, not holding a grudge and just want the best for others. And we see also his amazing persona in time of need…

It was sweet to see how Cam already knows what he feels for Poppy, while Poppy herself is still discovering her own feelings. And it was funny to see how the pair of them wanting to take a next step, yet doesn’t know how to handle things! 😊

I have to admit, that knowing that an old acquaintance of Poppy would resurface, I was a bit afraid that some kind of love triangle would develop. Afraid, because I knew who I wanted Poppy to be happy with.
And also because I got some strange vibes from this new character, and his behaviour is rather odd, to put it mildly.

Yes, of course this is a story about second chances. But also, as we are used from this author, it’s also about family, home, community. And with all the beauty of it, its possibilities, but also its struggles, as we can see that not everything is rainbow and unicorns all the time. Yet we see that with love, kindness, encouragement, even the most difficult hurdles can be taken, when there is someone by you side, helping you with every jump you have to take.

What more can I say than this was a wonderful start of a new series, making me fall in love with new characters, new storylines, while also being pleasantly surprised by cameos by some old friends! 😊
If this first book is just the start, I cannot wait to see what the next chapters will bring!

When a new job at a certain age becomes a challenge full of mystery…

Synopsis

A delightfully heartwarming and funny story that proves it’s never too late to change the habits of a lifetime, perfect for fans of Judy Leigh, Hazel Prior and Maddie Please.

Something old, something new, something stolen…?

Gina Knight is looking forward to the prospect of retirement with her husband of forty-three years. Until, to her surprise, said husband decides he needs to ‘find himself’ – alone – and disappears to Santa Fe, leaving divorce papers in his wake.

Now Gina needs a new role in life, not to mention somewhere to live, so she applies for the position of Companion to elderly Dorothy Reed. At eighty-three, ‘Dot’ needs someone to help her around the house – or at least, her family seems to think so. Her companion’s first role would be to accompany Dot for a week-long extravagant wedding party.

But when Georgina arrives at the large Norfolk estate where the wedding will take place, she quickly discovers Dot has an ulterior motive for hiring her. While the other guests are busy sipping champagne and playing croquet, Dot needs Georgina to help her solve a mystery – about a missing painting, which she believes is hidden somewhere in the house.

Because, after all, who would suspect two old ladies of getting up to mischief?

My review

Just when Gina is about to start enjoying retirement with her husband, he decides that he needs to ‘find himself’, without her by his side, and wants a divorce.
With their house being sold, Gina now needs to find a new place to live, and also instead of retirement, needs to find a way to just live.
So she applies for the position of Companion to Dorothy Reed. While Dorothy, at the blessed age of eighty – nine,  can still look after herself, her daughter seems to believe it couldn’t be a bad idea to have someone looking a bit after her, especially now that there is a week – long extravagant wedding party taking place.
It’s with relief that Gina gets the position, but she also learns upon her arrival at the Norfolk estate, that Dorothy has an ulterior motive: to find a missing painting, a painting Dorothy is sure is hidden somewhere in the mansion.
With Gina present on the “crime scene” and looking after Dorothy, no one would suspect these ladies of a certain age having a mission, right?

I mean it in the most kind possible way, when I say that a story involving elder people up to some mischief put a smile on my face.
So having two characters in this book that could easily pass as my mother or grandmother, well, that was for sure a double smile!

The book doesn’t start that greatly for Gina, as her marriage ended, her husband described her as ‘beige’ and just took off to ‘find himself’, whatever that may mean…
Instead of enjoying together retirement, now Gina has to start all over again, and even has to find a place to live…
It’s obvious that her soon – to – be – husband isn’t my favourite character of this book!

But at the same time while I felt sorry for Gina, I also admired her, as she didn’t just sit there and wallow in pity. She decides to find something to do, and when stumbling upon the position of Companion, it’s clear that it is something perfect for her.
And it does help that while even it is for just a week t start with, accommodations are included.

As Dorothy has already discarded other people to be her companion, I was already suspicious on why she so easily accepted Gina, after learning about Gina’s background. But it was also sweet to see how well these two women get along, beside Dorothy’s motives.
Even if Gina is getting paid for her services, it’s clear that these two women will quickly and easily become friends.

The mystery of the missing painting is also a sad tale, one that caused heartbreak not only to Dorothy, but to her whole family.
And with Dorothy having her own suspicions, I was very eager to know if Dorothy was right, or if her imagination was perhaps running wild.

While reading, I had several laughs, as I was seeing the scene right in front of me, and seeing how things funnily were going wrong. But I found it great to see how generations and even surprising characters joined forces, to get to the bottom of everything.

This was for sure an uplifting book, in a way also showing us that we should never underestimate people, no matter what their age is. Just because someone is older, it doesn’t mean that they cannot surprise us anymore, or don’t have that power, strength or determination anymore. You will find yourself smiling, laughing out loud, but you will also feel sad, angered at other moments. But if you are anything like my, you will also feel proud of these two women, showing us that age is just a number, and that you are never too old for some mischief in your life! 😊

When your presence at a Greek wedding is not what you thought it would be…

Synopsis

Love is in the air…

When singer Cara is invited to a big, fat Greek wedding in Corfu, she sees it as a mixed blessing: some time to heal on the beautiful Greek island with her aunt will be a tonic, but it’s going to stir up memories – of before Seb ghosted her and disappeared off the face of the earth.  

Akis Diakos, brother of the groom, should be looking forward to planning the bachelor party, but burdened by the weight of family expectation, his mind is elsewhere: he has a decision to make – one that could, apparently, ruin his little brother’s life forever. 

When Cara learns that her aunt Margot brought her here under false pretences, she’s faced with a dilemma. She’s not sung in public since that fateful day at Eurovision when her life fell apart, and she’s not planning to now. But with Akis’s encouragement, it’s time for both of them to face up to their fears. 

And who knows – maybe this beautiful duet will also lead to a beautiful romance? 

From the queen of Greek romance comes a story that will heal those heartstrings and make you believe in love again…

My review

After being completely embarrassed on the biggest stage on world, and being ghosted by her boyfriend, singing is the last thing that Cara want to do ever again.
No matter how much people around her, especially her Aunt Margot is pushing her, Cara won’t sing again.
But when that same Aunt Margot tells her that they are both invited to a Greek wedding in Corfu, Cara believes that some time away will do her good.
Until she learns that her aunt has brought her under false pretences and that everyone expects her to sing at the wedding.
Luckily, she can count on the brother of the groom, Akis Diakos for encouragement. But Akis himself is also carrying a huge weight on his shoulder, as he has to make a decision that, believing the curse, could ruin the whole family, and thus also his little brother’s, lives forever.
With both Cara and Akis facing their own dilemma’s and facing their fears, could there also be blooming something between the pair of them?

I always feel sorry when the main character sees her world falling apart at the moment she appears to be finally achieving her dream.
So from the very start, my heart went out to Cara, even if the details of wat exactly happened are still unknown.
She did not only had the most terrible experience during her performance at Eurovision, but her boyfriend Seb also ghosted her instead of giving her the support she needed.

So obviously I could understand why even now Cara refuses to sing. Not only in front of an audience, but just anywhere, even on her own. Who wouldn’t be traumatized after such experiences? It also doesn’t help being pressured to pick up the mic again…

After everything she has been through, it was sweet to see how her Aunt Margot is able to persuade her to go to Corfu, to attend a wedding as guests. Even if as a reader, we know it’s just an excuses, and that Aunt Margot is planning something, I couldn’t shake of the feeling that time away would be perfect for Cara, to get her thoughts back in order.

And I was a bit shocked to discover how deceptive her own Aunt could be. It even angered me, as it appeared that Margot didn’t understand Cara’s fears and boundaries…
Cara’s need to escape and hide was so obvious and understandable, even if I had to hide a few snickers when that brings Akis on her path. Snickers, because their encounter starts with a huge misunderstanding as Cara doesn’t realize that Akis isn’t what she thinks he is.

But even if that encounter made me laugh, getting to know Akis also saddened me. He also has this huge pressure, especially from his mother, as he is expected to follow a path that isn’t exactly what he would choose to do himself. Yet feeling that constant pressure, feeling the weight of his whole family’s happiness on his shoulders, I could understand that he doesn’t understand anymore what he truly wants.

Cara and Akis don’t get along immediately, as they clash over several things. Nevertheless, there is connection between them, an undeniable one. And it was sweet and heart – warming to see how these two people, full of doubts and fears, find someone to confide in, someone that understands them. And most important: someone that in a way makes it possible to get over their fears. Even if their togetherness brings new fears…

Those bits where Cara and Akis are together, just the two of them and not seeing everyone else (you’ll understand what I mean when you read this book! 😊) were just marvellous to read. I could almost feel myself what Akis was talking about.

It would be easy to point the finger towards some people in this books, as they do not seem to understand our lovely main characters (and yes, I am especially thinking about Aunt Margot and Akis’s mother Sofia). But it’s clear that their behaviour has a cause, and not everything is as straightforward as we may seem to think.

Of course on its own, Corfu is a beautiful place, as it’s on my bucket list for a long time. But in this book, it’s also surrounded by splendid characters. Not only Cara and Akis, but Irini, Horatio and for sure Pig make this an unforgettable read!

I loved reading how Cara’s reluctance on being on Corfu turns out to be the best thing that could perhaps happen to her.
The author captures perfectly what it means to have this fear lingering over you. But she also shows us that fears can be overcome. And that fear can perhaps also bring the right person on your path, and turn that fear into courage.
A courage that makes you take that leap of faith, and dare to do what you would ever think to do ever again. And with the right person by your side, it will be just… perfection…

What when life throws you an unexpected curveball?

Synopsis

Autumn’s summer is off to a smashing start… sort of.

Earlier this year, Autumn’s life looked great: she had a great relationship with her brilliant teenage daughter Chloe and from September she was all set to be Deputy Head at the London school where she works. And with a pay rise on the cards, she was excited for her and her long-term boyfriend Marc to buy their first home.

But Autumn’s barely opened the estate agent’s website when Marc vanishes with half their savings, leaving her no choice but to move into grandma’s rural home in Kent. And things go from bad to worse when Autumn is involved in an accident during the move, leaving the village’s dashing new baker Jake in plaster cast, and making her a local outcast before she’s even unpacked her bags.

Determined to put things right, Autumn offers to help Jake in the bakery over the summer holidays. But as things heat up in the kitchen, Autumn can’t help noticing that Jake is a lot more Paul Hollywood and a lot less Mr Kipling than she originally thought.

Maybe this summer isn’t such a write off after all?

My review

When Autumn hears that starting from September, she will be Deputy Head at the school she works at, she truly believes that it’s her and her family’s time.
Because with her promotion, Autumn and her long – term boyfriend will be finally able to buy their first home.
But Autumn is in for a shock, when one morning she wakes up, and Marc has disappeared, taking half of their savings with him.
With now having financial problems, Autumn and daughter Chloe have no other option to move back, temporarily, to Autumn’s mother, in Kent.
Things already start great, as Autumn is involved in an accident, resulting in local baker Jake in a plaster. With the rumours quickly spreading, and putting Autumn in a bad daylight, Autumn is determined to make things right again, and she offers Jake her help in the bakery for as long as the summer lasts.
Even if her life isn’t going as planned, Autumn, and also her daughter Chloe, learn that even when things have went awry, it isn’t all that bad…

In this book, both the characters as the readers go through a whirlwind of emotions.

I was ecstatic to read how Autumn has the chance to be Deputy Head, showing us that skills prevail over seniority. And I could understand that she was over the moon, that now her perhaps unconventional family would be able to buy their first family home.

It was strange to see how everything seemed to be working, as Autumn and Marc truly are getting along, there is a lot of affection visible between the pair.
Knowing that a disappearing act would be taking place, I couldn’t comprehend why Marc would possibly ever would want to leave.
And it made me furious to see how easy it was for Marc to just pack and go away, without any regards for his family. And to make things even worse, to take half of their savings with him!

What angered me also, was seeing how Autumn is going through worst case scenario, even calling the police, to realize that in fact Marc was just being selfish and took off.

But I also admired Autumn’s resilience. She is going through a terrible time, and has no other choice to return and stay with her mother. And even after the incident with Jake, she tries to make the best out of the complete situation.
I liked it how she didn’t just let the gossip pas her by, but she stood up for herself.
But I especially liked her kindness in general. She didn’t have to help out Jake, but she did it because that’s just the kind of person she is.

It was sweet but also hilarious at the same time, seeing three generations living together. I loved how the trio live together, tease each other, but mainly just love and support each other.
It was funny to see alliances shifted with each new situation!

I have to say, while I enjoy baking myself, working in a bakery would definitely not be my cup of tea… I need my sleep and to get up that early would be my personal hell. So in that view, I admired Jake as he truly is passionate about his baking skills, but I also admired Autumn, as she is ready to help in out.

Autumn and Jake, what a lovely friendship that they have created! Both being hurt and burnt by love, they probably understand each other better than anyone else could.
What starts as an act of kindness, becomes  something genuine, honest and real.

There is also so much growth in this book, for each main and side character. While not every character was someone to dislike, the more the story evolved, the more changes happened, the more I liked each character. From Autumn to Chloe, to the village gossiper, that managed to turn into a lovely person!

This book was so easy to read, it captured my attention, refused to let it go for even just one instance. The lovely Phoebe MacLeod shows us with her amazing writing skills that sometimes the ugliest thing that happens to us, can turn out to be the best that could happen to us. And all of this wrapped in a beautiful story, with wonderful, strong female lead characters!

On the cruise plans: revenge

Synopsis

A woman scorned…

On board the superyacht Perseus, moored in the glamorous harbour in Antibes, Freya Addison is settling into her new role as hostess.

The other crew members all like Freya, she is calm and diligent and a hard worker, but what they don’t know is that Freya has a secret and an ulterior motive for being on board.

Revenge will be hers.

Because Freya isn’t here to travel the world in style. She has her sights set on one thing only, bringing down the owner of the yacht – the rich and arrogant Julian Falcon.

A man who ripped the heart out of Freya’s family.

And a man she will make pay…

My review

When the superyacht Perseus sets off to its next journey, nobody knows that the latest hostess Freya is on a mission.
Because the owner of the yacht, Julian Falcon, is responsible for the heartbreak Freya’s family had to endure. And Freya is determined to bring him down, at any cost.
But Freya herself will learn that getting revenge won’t be that easy at all… and that she should never underestimate whoever is also on board…

Often in a thriller, all the action and suspense takes place in several places. But what when it’s all limited on one place (or almost). And let that one place be also a tricky one, as it’s a yacht.

I have to say, I don’t think I would have the guts that Freya has in this book. Of course I understood her reasons, who wouldn’t, but it’s also crystal-clear that Julian Falcon is a very dangerous man, without any scruples. He doesn’t hesitate to do things that will never see the light of day.
And so Freya willingly working on his yacht, ready to take him down, well it only means that Freya herself is on a mission and she will do anything to succeed.

It was terrible to read what people can do to other people, how they are responsible for one’s downfall. And it angered me to read how yes, there may be perhaps some remorse, but also no intention of changing anything. Julian Falcon is the kind of person that you want to see going down, finally understanding that what comes around, goes around.

I was a bit surprised in some revelations in this book, but on the other hand I wasn’t. Because with such a evil persona, it makes sense that there are more than just one person going after him.
And the more was revealed, the more I was disgusted by Falcon, and the more I was cheering for Freya and her mission.

This book had me sitting on the edge of my seat, not knowing who to trust and who not. Because let me assure you, there are twists and turns that I wasn’t expecting. There are unexpected alliances but also unexpected betrayals.
While I was reading, I was feeling terrified, feeling anxious, but also feeling courageous together with Freya, determined and even strong.
I didn’t know how Freya would get her revenge, I was afraid Julian Falcon would get away once again, and I was afraid for the lives of other people…

And while I was going through all of this, I realized that Evie Hunter achieved perfectly what is expected from a thriller: having her readers not wanting to continue to read, afraid of the outcome, but also at the same time have the need to continue to read, to see if there is a way to get the resolution everyone is hoping for.  

Life isn’t a pony camp…

Synopsis

A Poignant and Humorous Journey of Self-discovery, Resilience, and Redemption

Once, Julie dreamed of a life filled with love and laughter. Now, in her mid-forties, she faces a starkly different reality. She’s single, lonely, and reeling from breaking her hard-earned sobriety in front of her family and friends.

Opting for self-recovery over romance, Julie dives into planning her best friend Kate’s wedding. However, sharing this task with the irritatingly cheerful best man, single dad Luke, proves to be an unexpected challenge.

As Luke’s persistent kindness chips away at her icy exterior, a friendship forms, stirring a longing she’d sworn to suppress. But with self-forgiveness as her biggest hurdle, and her past ready to sabotage her future, can Julie confront the shame and trauma that have darkened so much of her life and find the courage to love again? Or will her demons shatter both her and Luke’s hearts in the process?

Jamie Anderson, author of the hilarious and heartwarming Someone to Kiss, is back with another witty, acerbic, and relatable story. Love, Julie is a richly emotional tale of recovery, forgiveness, and romance that readers have praised for “nailing the humor and snarky nature of our generation.”

My review

Being in her mid – forties, it would be expected that Julie would have her life on track. But Julie’s life is everything except on track, she is single, lonely and because she thought she could manage, her sobriety ended badly on the worst possible day, the engagement party of her brother and best friend.
So to show her good intentions and her determination to succeed once again in her sobriety, she offers to plan Kate and Ben’s wedding.
But what she didn’t take in account is that now she has to work together with Mr. Positivo and best man Luke.
Slowly, Luke’s presence is having a positive effect on Julie, and they are becoming friends. But with Julie’s feelings progressing, is Julie herself ready to let go of her fears, doubts, and all her other demons that are chasing her?

This was not the kind of story I was expecting when I started with this book. But as it was something else, it doesn’t mean that I didn’t enjoy it. On the contrary, I just loved this book, even if it was the complete light-hearted book I had in mind.

It was too easy to blame Julie for mistakes, past and present ones. Of course, it’s a choice she makes, but in this book we see clearly what brings Julie to make those choices.
Julie has a problem with alcohol, a problem that has been there for years. Problems that turned her into a person she isn’t at heart. Problems that make the others around her think that Julie *is* the problem, and they only see Julie in that light, and not as the person she has been for the months that she has been sober.

I truly felt sorry for her, because not only is she a victim, but she also tries her best to get better. But that is always easier said than done, and as we can see with Julie, it’s also about finding what works for you. Because what has been working for others, doesn’t mean that it also has to work for you.

But at the same time, I also truly admired Julie. She knows that things have to change, and she is ready to show Kate and Ben that she can do it. She wants to prove that she can be a reliable person, someone that is trustworthy.
So even if it isn’t something that she is truly thrilled about, she wants to do something for the people she loves the most.

Julie and Luke couldn’t be more different from each other. Whenever Luke appears, I could feel his positivism spark from the pages. He sees the good in everything and everyone. And he believes in people. Even in a bad situation he sees something good, and he is the kind of person that doesn’t judge.

When Julie and Luke first meet, it isn’t in the best of circumstances, and I could for sure understand Julie’s reluctance to work together with him in planning the wedding.
Nevertheless, it was sweet to see how slowly Luke manages to break those high walls that Julie has built over time.
And it was great to see how Julie takes over his ‘Lukiness’! 😊

Of course Julie isn’t having a walk in the park, as there are still many hurdles to overcome. Past mistakes that resurface, dealing with the prejudice of people, but also Julie’s own fears and doubts holding her back, letting her make again some mistakes.

I have to say, as this book works with mails Julie is writing in the present and we are seeing what happened in the timespan of a year, the author made me think for the absolute worst.
On one hand I wanted to continue to read, but on the other hand, I didn’t want to face that heartbreak, not only Julie’s but mine too…

This was a courageous story, an inspiring one too. It shows us that everyone makes mistakes, for one reason or another. And even relapsing in old habits, it is a human thing.
But it’s also about the determination to make a change, to have redemption. We see a character  develop, mature, but also ready to fight her demons.
I found this a very realistic book, with many trails and errors, but also so many beautiful things that show you that a change can be made, with the right incentive and mainly the right people by your side.

Sometimes nothing happens in one weekend, and other times, everything happens

Synopsis

When all seems lost, hope remains…

Val Murray has mislaid her most precious mementoes of the people she’s loved and lost. Can her family, the wonders of technology and a little divine intervention somehow mend her shattered heart?

Sophie Smith had to take a rain check on a marriage proposal. Will her bid to turn back the clock lead her to her greatest love or yet another heartbreak?

Alice McLenn stood by her husband, Larry when a scandal cost them everything. When he hits the headlines again, Alice has an opportunity to leave – but can she find the strength to finally walk away?

Rory Brookes was forced to turn his back on his parents to save his career and marriage. Now, he’s lost his job and wife on the same day. Is it too late to make amends with the one person who never let him down?

Three days. Four broken hearts. Just one weekend to make them whole again.

My review

After losing her beloved husband after many blissful years being married to Don, Val Murray is a little bit at loss. So after some persuasion, she agrees to spend two weeks in London, with her nieces Carly and Carol.
Only to be devastated once again when Val realizes that she has lost her most precious rings. Not that they hold that big of a monetary value, but the emotional value is just priceless.
Little does Val know that the rings are in hands of Sophie Smith, who herself is on a quest to reconnect with the man that proposed to her two years ago. But with the complete wrong timing, she couldn’t possibly accept…
But Sophie herself doesn’t know that getting into the same taxi as Val did, with the same rude driver, she won’t manage to get on time to the meeting point…
And Alice McLenn has had enough of being married to Larry, as a scandal cost her everything, and now his behaviour is putting them back in the headlines. But most of all, she regrets the loss of contact with her son Rory Brookes, who sees his marriage falling apart and losing his job on the same day.
In three days, the world of four people will change, but in what way?

Shari Low for sure knows how to write books that keep you sitting on the edge of your seat. It took me a little while to realize that Val is a character that has appeared before in Shari’s previous books. When that realization struck, I had a little squeal of excitement, as I absolutely loved Val whenever she appeared. But if this is your first book of this amazing author (shame on you that you haven’t discovered her earlier! 😊), there is no need to worry as you can read this perfectly as a standalone.

I was very curious to discover how each separate story would fit in the greater picture, because each character has such a specific and personal story to tell, that I truly believe that they could fill a whole book on their own.

Each character has been through or is still going through a rough patch, like losing a husband, losing a mother, losing a marriage.
I cannot even say which character I loved the most. Was it Val, who is heartbroken after losing her Don and discovering she has lost the rings that mean so much her? But also being the kind of person that is able to see more than what sees the eye? And manages to get you all teared up by just talking about her life?

Or is it young Sophie, on a mission, not telling her father so that he is not worried about her? Sophie, who finally has given losing her mom a place and is finally ready to move on? And that same Sophie that knows that her mission is a difficult one, but is ready to just go for it? And that same Sophie that shows that there still are good people in this world, that do the right thing, and not doing what many other people would do.

Or is it Alice, the woman that has lost everything, ‘thanks’ to her husband. Being married to Larry has not been the marriage of life she envisioned, but she never found the right time to leave. Alice, that to protect the person she cares the most about, pushed him away. Alice, that is building up the courage to take that final step. Alice, that perhaps finally has the perfect opportunity to finally do what’s right for her.

Or perhaps it’s Rory, that after still hoping his wife would return to him, learns that his marriage is truly over, even costing him his job. But also understanding that now there is nothing else to lose and perhaps it’s time to get back in touch with the one person that would do anything for him.

So it’s clear, I cannot pick a favourite person. But I for sure can pick the person I disliked the most. A person that shows us that despite all the good people in the world, there will always be someone thinking about his own gains, and doesn’t take in account the feelings of those around him. And I was happy to see how karma can be a total b****.

It was so heart – warming to see how each main character is surrounded by love, love from their friends, family, or even people they have just met like a kind nurse, or how fate has brought them on their paths.

This book is filled with so much love, kindness, gentleness, understanding and forgiveness, but also courage and determination.
We see how in one weekend, three days, can have a complete impact on your life. How in three days you can make new acquaintances, and bonds that will last a lifetime.

Shari Low has this amazing talent that she can write a whole book with something that starts of so randomly, and yet how the universe can turn that randomness into perhaps the best thing that could ever happen to you. Because it brings people on your path that you didn’t know you needed, or that they needed you.
I was captivated by this story from the first page until the very last one, something that shouldn’t surprise me anymore as I know what this author can do.

When you need to refocus, an escape to Greece is the answer

Synopsis

Can a Greek escape be the start of something special?

Xanthe Fox has it all: a famous, drop-dead gorgeous boyfriend, a dream career and bright future – until heartbreak sends her life into a tailspin.

So when Xanthe’s Greek godmother unexpectedly leaves her a villa on the sumptuous island of Kefalonia, Xanthe jumps at the chance to put her life in London on hold and escape to the island hideaway to rethink her future.

The break allows Xanthe the time to explore her passions, sift through her feelings and discover more about her estranged Greek family while renovating her godmother’s enchanting Villa Aster.

But not everyone is happy to see her. Unfazed by her hostile neighbours and after making a mortifying mistake with a sexy builder, Xanthe is equally charmed by Kefalonia and a handsome, brooding gardener.

Chasing dreams, taking chances and saying ‘yes’ has the potential to turn Xanthe’s life upside down, but will a summer escape allow her to sparkle once more?

My review

Xanthe Fox has worked hard to get her acting career at the point it’s now. But how things ended with her famous boyfriend, turned her world upside down.
So when she inherits her Greek godmother’s house in Kefalonia, for Xanthe it’s the perfect opportunity to get away from everything and everyone to rethink about her future.
And of course it helps that now she has the chance to learn more about her own family, as that topic is off – limits for her own mother.
Yet this summer Xanthe is spending in Kefalonia, will be one full with surprises, pleasant ones and  not so pleasant ones. However, it will be for sure one that Xanthe will never forget.

Another book from this author that I just devoured… what a dream – worthy setting, what amazing yet also complicated characters, what a story!

I loved to see how Xanthe has finally the career she always dreamed about. Of course, standing on stage would be just terrifying for me, but I could easily Xanthe standing there, capturing her audience.
She worked hard to get where she is now, and her hard word absolutely paid off. But her personal life isn’t all that glitter and glam. And her heart got broken in a terrible way. It angered me to see how that despicable ex of her even managed to turn that into his advantage while Xanthe is still hurt from his behaviour.

It was amazing to discover Kefalonia together with Xanthe, while she herself was getting reacquainted with the place that she used to visit as a child.
Initially it was a bit weird reading how she inherited Villa Aster from her godmother. But learning about the letters she and Agatha wrote to each other over the years, show us the real bond between these two people.
And even if over time the letters diminished, the love Agathe had for Xanthe and the other way around was still very obvious.

And even if Agatha is no longer here, it’s clear how important she was. Not only in Xanthe’s life, but also for the people on the island. She truly cared about the people in her life, even if things weren’t always easy for her, and she also had her heart broken a few times…

Staying in Villa Aster is a way for Xanthe to reconnect with her godmother, and to understand better the dynamics between Agatha and her mother.
It was a bit sad to read how Xanthe slowly regrets getting out of touch with the woman that clearly loved her so much.

Obviously her stay in Kefalonia isn’t always a walk in the park, as she has to face prejudice of some people, she even has to face the wrath of some. And one bad decision makes her even feel ashamed of her actions.
But there is also the good of people, as she is welcomed with open arms by lovely people, she even makes new friends and slowly she starts to feel at home.

There is some romance in this book, of course there is. Yet it’s one that starts off not that greatly, with some misunderstandings but we also see how gatecrashing can be the start of something unexpected. And of course, having that kind of neighbour does help the romance bits 😊

I loved reading how at ease Xanthe starts to feel in a place that holds her own roots. And how we can clearly see how getting away from her busy life is the perfect medicine for Xanthe to regroup her thoughts.
On this journey, Xanthe has to make decisions that affect her future. And as they consist of different kind of dreams, it was not an easy choice to make.

But that’s life, a journey filled with choices we have to make every day. Perhaps not all choices are as complicated as Xanthe’s during her summer on Kefalonia, but they affect our lives one way or another.
And with making choices, it’s also a way to understand yourself better, to understand what makes your heart beat a little bit faster.

This was a wonderful book, set in a marvellous place, with great people, showing us that sometimes a time out can be the best thing we can have, to only have a bigger understanding of what we dream for our own future. It can also bring us closure over things happened in the past. But also that perhaps we should be more precious about the people we care about and that care about us, because we may never know that the day may come that it’s too late…