When wanting to live up the expectations, you are losing yourself

Synopsis

What if becoming the perfect wife meant losing the woman you used to be?

Christina Pemberton – born plain Tina Miller – may be a skilled restorer of antique silver, but to her husband’s old-money family, she is still tarnished goods. They won’t quite let her in to their rarified world, and it’s tearing her marriage apart.

Desperate to prove herself worthy, Christina makes a decision that weighs heavily on her conscience. But then a secret from her past threatens to resurface, and Christina faces an impossible choice between the world she aspires to join, and the life that shaped her.

This is a warm, gripping tale of family, legacy, love, and second chances, set in a beautiful house on the rugged North Devon coast, perfect for fans of Phillipa Ashley, Tilly Tennant, and Sue Moorcroft.A Perfect Devon Manor is a warm, emotionally satisfying midlife romance set in an enchanting Devon manor. Expect a marriage in trouble, self-rediscovery, second chances, and falling in love again, with high-stakes family drama, village intrigue, a glimpse into the rarified world of antique silver restoration, and a life-affirming happily ever after.

My review

Despite being married years to Hamish Pemberton, Christina still feels as tarnished goods. Even if she used to be Tina Miller, she is a skilled restorer of antique silver now. But that and having a daughter Elspeth, isn’t enough to let Christina feel that she truly is a part of the Pemberton family. Eager to show her worth, and her wish to help out her family, Christina finds herself in a situation that she doesn’t truly agree with. And when her past is threatened to come out, Christina feels more than ever that everything she has tried to built on during the years, could be falling apart in the blink of an eye…

How often have we read stories where the main characters are from a different background, yet the love is too big to ignore and in the end they find their happily ever after? But what would happen in the years to follow and when the ‘lesser’ party isn’t truly accepted into the wealthy family?

Right from the start I did not only felt sorry for Christina, but I pitied her too. Her life and marriage with Hamish is clearly not an amazing one, and it is obvious that Hamish lives in his own world, in the past, and that even if they are a small family of their own, they are still too close to Lady Flora…

And also the situation Christina finds herself in… she is very talented as a restorer of antique silver. So it angered me it to read how she is forced into using her skills for doing wrong things. I could understand how Christina initially agreed to it, in order to help the family. But it is clear that she is being used for not so genuine purposes…It even infuriated me, reading how Christina’s past is used as leverage.

I have to admit, I felt that anger throughout great part of the book. Not because of my dislike for the story, but I was so angry in Christina’s place. All she wants, is a happy family with Hamish and Elspeth, having a place to truly call home and to be just accepted by the Pembertons and people connected to them.

It is also crystal clear that in all the years wanting to please others, Christina has lost herself. She has been trying to hard to be liked, and during these years, it kind of feels that she has lost her essence, of what makes Christina in fact Tina.

My heart broke for her, as she finds herself in an impossible situation, or rather in several impossible situations… And with the fear of the truth of her past coming out, jeopardizing even more her present and her future.

A past that made my mind go wild, that went from a small crime to even the most criminal one. But when the truth came out, it wasn’t something that I could have imagined. So sometimes, a mind going too wild, isn’t a great mind 😊.

Now, I am sounding all negative in this review, but believe it is all because I am upset for Chrstina. And there are some lovely moments in the book, absolutely! For example, the love between Christina and Elspeth, just so heartwarming to read the connection between mother and daughter! And there is also how Christina wants to save and protect the family, even if their despise/dislike is obvious.

The more the story progresses, the more growth we also see. Of course Christina is slowly learning to stand up for herself, and even learns to play a little bit dirty. But in fact, all of the Pembertons, the good ones, are going through a whole process. Eyes are being opened, pasts are being accepted, and old ideas and ideologies are thrown out of the window.

So even if the book had me in an angry mood because of all the injustice, at the end of it, I was happy with the course of it. Yes, some things were perhaps concluded too quickly, without any real justice being done, but with the general feeling that the characters end with, that is also okay for me 😊.

To save not only the family’s legacy…

Synopsis

The perfect new cozy-up-with-a-pumpkin-spice-latte read that’s meant for fans of Laurie Gilmore and Rebecca Raisin!

Professional pastry chef Blaire Reese is blindsided when her beloved Aunt Rachel dies, leaving her the Sugar and Spice Pastry Cafe in Willow Grove. Returning to her hometown, Blaire discovers her beloved family business is in trouble, and—to make things worse—its most-cherished recipe is missing.

Her first love and former summer crush, Evan Hadley, is also back in town, having traded a corporate career to help manage his family’s Heath Acre Farm, famous for its autumn Hay Daze corn maze. Grown up – and with rugged good looks – he’s only charming when he wants to be. Like when he’s not tangling with someone over business matters, the way he is with Blaire after she cancels a large order for organic pumpkins.

Her sunshine is disappearing under his grumpy storm clouds, until he accidentally learns the truth about her situation. Now, he offers to help save her aunt’s legacy and her family’s pastry cafe. As they work together in secret, the ingredients for a very different recipe develop— one simmering with romance—but an unexpected turn of events melts their growing attraction into a mess.

Will Blaire save the beloved cafe and find the lost recipe that means so much to the pastry café’s customers? And can she save this last chance at love with the first boy she ever kissed?

Sugar and Spice at the Pumpkin Corner Café invites readers to dive into its cozy autumn escape this fall—for fans of grumpy x sunshine, small town romance, Gilmore Girls, pumpkin lattes, sugar and spice and everything else that’s nice about this magical season!

My review

Blaire Reese is working as a professional pastry chef, as baking has always been a passion of her. Yet when she hears about the passing of her beloved Aunt Rachel, Blaire is in shock. Even more when she hears that Aunt Rachel left her the Sugar and Spice Pastry Café in Willow Grove. Back in her hometown, Blaire discovers not only that the business is in bad papers, but also that Aunt Rachel’s most famous recipe has gone missing. In order to keep the business alive, Blaire is cancelling orders that aren’t needed anymore. But what she doesn’t know is that by cancelling the big order of organic pumpkins, she put her first love and former summer crush Evan Hadley in bad papers too. Evan made a big career switch and went from the corporate business into his family’s Heath Acre farm, famous for the Hay Daze corn made and their organic pumpkins. So when Evan learns about the cancellation, it is obvious that he isn’t thrilled at all. But when the truth comes out, Evan finds himself wanting to help Blaire out, and he wants to save the café too. The more time they spend together, the more the simmering attraction seems impossible to ignore, but not only baking can get messy at times…

It has been a while since I have read a book of this author, so when the opportunity came, I just had to read this new book, even if my personal connection with pumpkins isn’t that big 😊.

I don’t have a close bond with my aunt or uncles, so even if Blaire is living in the city and she doesn’t call or visit her Aunt Rachel that much anymore, it is obvious to anyone that their connection has always been a strong one. Aunt Rachel has always been Blaire’s biggest fan, wanting nothing more for her to achieve her big dream.

When we meet Blaire, I felt a little bit sorry for her. As baking ahs always been a big passion of hers, it felt to me that at her current job she hasn’t got the opportunity to let her imagination go wild. She cannot come up with great creations. And in a way, that is more saddening, finding a job that you think is your cup of tea, but isn’t, instead of not even getting close to achieve your dream.

But I also have to say, that I liked Blaire’s commitment. She has a job and a life in the ‘big city’ but she doesn’t give it up right on the spot to go back to Willow Grove. But that same commitment Blaire has for Willow Grove and the business her Aunt Rachel has been building. Blaire doesn’t want all that effort and passion seen getting lost.

It needs to be said, Blaire for sure does her best to save the café, but she doesn’t always use the most diplomatic ways 😊. I could understand that Evan isn’t pleased with the way the cancellation comes through. I think that I would have done it differently, no matter how awkward it may be. On the other hand, I cannot blame Blaire, as she has to make quick decisions and doesn’t always has the time or even strength to think about how to do thinks ‘properly’.

The first clash there is between Blaire and Evan, I have to admit, I wish I had some popcorn 😊. I could understand both points of view, but also in this case, things could have been handled better.

Evan does not make a great impression on Blaire, as he is the perfect example of e grumpy man. But while at first Evan also make a wrong impression with me, I knew that Laura Briggs wouldn’t have a terrible main character, and I just had to be patient to see the real Evan step out.

And the real Evan may be a bit awkward at moments, not thinking before he talks, or think about the right words coming out of his mouth, but it is obvious that his heart truly is at the right place.

It was for sure delightful to see how Evan at first apologies to Blaire, and is even willing to help her out with recreating the lost recipe. And is there a better way of getting closer than spending time in the kitchen together? It for sure would work for me! 😊

In Blaire’s and Evan’s case it for sure helps that there is history between them, that there already was an initial connection between them and that perhaps it just needed to be reignited.

Things aren’t going always straightforward between Blaire and Evan, and that makes this story very realistic. Blaire still has a life and career in the city, also is she doubting her own capacities and doesn’t believe that she ever will recreate her Aunt Rachel’s delight. And Evan is working so hard the farm, wanting to make a success out of it. And there are moments that he has the right intention, but it doesn’t always come out in the right way.

I truly enjoyed reading this heartwarming story, about not only a perhaps second chance at life, but a second chance at life and about refinding your passion and your heart again. And it was the cherry on top of the cake that when everything falls into place, it is actually *everything*, even the unexpected!

Seeking for independence, finding so much more

Synopsis

In Regency Cornwall, governess Miss Wilkins has always survived by being sensible, capable, and self-reliant. When she dares to take a bold step toward independence, she has no intention of complicating her life—or her heart.

Her encounters with James Pentarrant, the steadfast captain of the Delabole slate quarry, are marked less by romance than by spirited disagreement. Self-contained and disciplined, James challenges her views at every turn, even as he respects her resolve. What begins as wary sparring and mutual resistance gradually deepens into an understanding neither expected nor sought.

Alongside their unfolding story, a young heiress newly returned to Cornwall hides a calling that defies convention. When a moment of danger on the moor—and the inevitable gossip that follows—forces her into an unintended engagement, assumptions harden and emotions become dangerously entangled. Her growing affection for her own sparring partner, a gentle country doctor with the manners of a true gentleman and a secret of his own, only further unsettles what society is determined to set in place.

Set against the rugged beauty of Cornwall’s coast, quarries, and windswept moors, The Teacher’s Noble Heart is a tender Regency romance of intertwined lives, mistaken conclusions, and love discovered in spite of every sensible intention.

My review

Miss Persephone Wilkins has always been a governess, but as now she is no longer needed as a governess, she feels that the time has come to claim her independence. Something that she never dreamed of being, but Persephone needs a purpose in life, and with an unexpected inheritance, she feels that now she can take that bold step. Once setting up her life in Cornwall, Persephone befriends Sophia. While their lives and even their dreams couldn’t be more different, an immediate friendship and trust is built. But the last thing Persephone expected, was how much the encounters with steadfast captain of Delabole slate quarry, James Pentarrant, would challenge her, on so many levels. The same can be said of the Sophia, after her encounters with doctor Nathaniel Rowe, a gentle man but not always seeing the progress or comprehension. However, with society having rules of their own, can these two strong women find the independence and happiness they are both searching for?

Whenever I am reading stories that are set in the past, whether it is in the Roman era, Regency, Victorian era, I am always happy somehow, living in the present. And that has all to do with the freedom we all have as women, the wealth we are living in. Things that the characters in such book don’t have, yet as strong women, something they all desire to find.

Because with this book, we see how limited women are. They cannot pursue a career, and not one they truly desire to pursue at all. And then we are not talking about falling in love and marriage…

At the start of the book, I felt a little bit sad for Persephone. While she is happy that the truth is out about her connection with Antonella (explained all in the previous book, but given the necessary info in this book too), it is also very clear that Antonella doesn’t need Persephone in the form of a governess anymore, having found love herself. And I could comprehend how at loss that made Persephone feel…

Yet at the same time I also admired her, because she has a dream, to bring knowledge to the less fortunate children. And with the received inheritance, she is able to pursue her dream, how difficult it may be in reality.

It shows that Persephone is not a quitter, no matter how difficult it all may seem, and how much people are wary and reluctant to agree with her ideas and views… She will make people ‘see sense’ and she will fight against the injustices she sees in Cornwall.

And we see what an open character Persephone is. The way she quickly befriends Sophia, how in sync they are, just wonderful. And it is even greater as both women are very different from each other, especially in their upbringing. Yet they just connect in a way that is truly remarkable. Even without speaking out loud, they see what is happening, what is going on in their minds, even before they realize it themselves.

While Sophia would be having a privileged life, we also see how restricted that can be. Not only because her family’s wealth means that Sophia is not free to choose who to marry, but that she (and even more important to her), she cannot choose her passion and practice medicine like she truly wants.

I was very curious to read how their stories would evolve, how their feelings and emotions would change, grow. And in a way, it was funny to read how those feelings are starting to bloom with exact the person they are clashing the most! 😊

Because isn’t it also true that there are people that you clash with, but that that person is the person that perhaps can understand you the best. And that despite the clashing, there are so many other things that you DO share, that you are on the same wavelength. If only you can see behind the clashing bits.

Of course there is a moment in the book where everything seem to go for the worst, where there are choices to be made that will end up in heartbreak somehow. Not only because there are literally lives at stake, but also the ‘laws’ of society not allowing to truly follow your heart.

This story was of course a joy to read, to see the development in each character, seeing the revelation of a few secrets. It was so easy to like all the main characters, even if sometimes they are clashing with each other. But most of all, it made once again realize that not so long ago, people, and especially women, did not have all the freedom we have now, and that they truly had to fight for their dreams and happiness.

With a lovely cover like this, don’t you just want to read the book?

Synopsis

They’re off for the time of their lives. But are you? 

Book #1 in The Empty Nesters Series.

Single parent Heather isn’t neurotic (honest!) – she’s simply dreading the day her only child leaves for university – so her meticulous checklists grow longer by the hour. When she seeks advice on a parents’ forum, she clashes with Scott, a single dad whose “helpful” statistics and assertions about “helicopter parenting” leave her fuming. 

Move-in day delivers the ultimate surprise: their daughters aren’t just roommates – they are self-declared “besties for life”. Suddenly, Heather and Scott are thrown into a begrudging alliance. 

As they navigate the new status quo, Heather’s instinct to organise meets Scott’s philosophy of letting go. Their practical text messages about mattress toppers and emergency supplies evolve into conversations about dream jobs and bucket list aspirations. Despite their intentions to avoid relationships at all costs, unpredictable events keep throwing them together, meaning Heather and Scott find it increasingly difficult to ignore each other… 

Pre-order Link 

https://amzn.eu/d/0dbgIz37

Publication Date – 10th July 2026

About the author

Ko Porteous lived in a tiny fishing village in the north of Scotland before moving to Edinburgh aged 10.  

Ko loves meeting people with interesting stories to tell and is constantly on the lookout for knotty story themes, particularly involving women navigating the messiness of life. She has worked as a Research Chemist, Assistant Chef, Teacher and School Leader.  

As well as writing, Ko works as a Business Manager and provides listening services for a mental health charity aiming to reduce the number of deaths caused by suicide.  

In her free time Ko loves to run, meditate and travel; preferably all on the same day.   

Ko has been married for 25 years, has 2 children of her own and is now navigating her own empty nest.  

The Freshman Parents is Ko’s debut novel and is the first in ‘The Empty Nesters’ series.  

The cover!

 

When moving to a new place, can heal your heart

Synopsis

Some places are special enough to heal hearts… Welcome to Little Beaubrook

In a tiny English village hidden away for decades, the mists are parting to reveal a manor which glows gold and tumbledown thatched cottages that have been waiting for the right people to rebuild them.

On moving in day, a diverse group of new neighbours have only two things in common. Their hearts have been broken in some way, and they’ve all signed a contract with some very strange stipulations, including buying one of the cottages for a pound. As Chair of the commonhold association, Albie Curville hopes that by sharing his late wife’s rules for living he can bring these reluctant strangers together to fulfil her dying wish before he runs out of time… and before they discover his secret.

When their newfound community – built on kindness, friendship and a manor with a long history of helping those in need – is threatened by an outside source, can they finally overcome their pasts to save Little Beaubrook and seize the second chances they deserve?

Come and visit this magical lost village for a cosy, feel-good story about love, found family, new beginnings and the healing power of community. Perfect for fans of Debbie Johnson, Jenny Colgan, Evie Woods and Phaedra Patrick.

My review

Little Beaubrook isn’t the kind of place that you can find easily. Hidden in the English mists, the manor only reveals itself in full glory in front of the right people. And Chair of the commonhold association, Albie Curville hopes that the new neighbours will be able to fulfil his late wife’s dying wish. Because there are some very specific stipulations to become part of the community Albie hopes to be building. But with every neighbour having a broken heart for one reason or another, their priority is not building a community and save Little Beaubrook. However, when an outside source is threating their new homes, the community that is built and is expanding on kindness and friendship, is doing all they can to save their homes. And perhaps they can also get a much deserved second chance in life?

When I started reading this book, I didn’t know what to expect. Of course I have read the blurb, but let’s be honest, it doesn’t tell you very much does it? 😊And I was a bit afraid that the ‘magical’ bits would be too unbelievable to make me actual believe it.

So I had a bit of a difficult start with it, also because there are many new neighbours moving into the manor, with their own story. But the more the story progressed, the more I found myself totally captivated by it, and also relieved that the magic is not the Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo kind of magic, but more as signs of the progress.

Even with the difficult start, I immediately liked Albie. Not only was it sweet to see how much he still loves his late wife, and how he wants to honour her last wish, but I also got ‘caring grandfather’ – vibes from him. Even if all the neighbours are freshly arrived and not all that willing to be part of the community how Albie wants, Albie just wants to help everyone out, even if it is just offering to listen, or go on walks without further expectations of any kind.

Talking about the new inhabitants, I will not explain the story or background of each character, but what I can say, is that it is a very eclectic group. Women, men, married, single, straight or LGBTQ, they are all welcomed in the manor, even if their background couldn’t be more different.

In a way, it was a bit funny how everyone wanted to be left alone yet is it because of Albie’s determination, or the manor and its ‘powers’, slowly each separate individual becomes part of the community. And it was lovely to read those messages on the board, how it is working and how slowly, very slowly, the messages are getting through.

And a common goal, to save their homes, bring all the characters even closer, allowing themselves to open up, to trust, to speak out, to be courageous. And the beauty was how when all the truths are out, there is no prejudice, just acceptance and warmth. Unity makes strength, but unity also bonds, creates friendships.

Little by little too, we see how the characters are able to let go of their past, how they are able to defeat the demons of their past. Which is absolutely not easy, but ever since moving to the manor, meeting Albie and the other neighbours, it seems that slowly a weight is being lifted, that each of them is able to see the sunlight after all the rain they had.

This isn’t always an easy story to read, as not only we learn about some characters’ past, but also about their present issues. However, we see also a lot of strength in this story, and that makes it a hopeful, warm story. Because strength, whether you find it yourself, or with the help of others, is what can make you believe in a second chance again.

And with that strength, that courage, that united front that you find with strangers, everything will flourish and look brighter. In the case of this book, you can take that actually literally! 😊.

When the dream is so close, things must go awry somehow, right?

Synopsis

Booksellers Florrie Appleton and her fiancé Ed are just three weeks away from their dream wedding. Between hand-selling beloved classics, unveiling Ed’s enchanting window displays and hosting lively book readings with local authors, they’ve managed to plan an intimate ceremony that promises to be everything they’ve ever hoped for – filled with literary delights, lots of laughter and the love of those closest to them. 

But when Ed’s mother Dawn arrives unannounced on their doorstep, Florrie’s world is thrown into chaos like confetti. Dawn claims she’s come to help with the wedding preparations, yet she’s never shown the slightest interest in her son before. As she starts dismissing their carefully curated shelves and snooping around their cosy cottage, Florrie can’t shake the feeling that Dawn’s plans stretch far beyond simply choosing flowers and cake.

With her close-knit group of friends rallying around her and the bookshop’s loyal customers offering support, can Florrie protect her relationship and the bookshop that means everything to them both? Or will their happily ever after slip through their fingers like pages torn from one of her treasured books?

My review

Florrie Appleton and her fiancé Ed feel that everything is falling into place. Their bookshop is running well, Ed can let his inspiration run wild with enchanting window displays, and their wedding is just a few weeks away. A wedding that will be an intimate one, with many literary references and the people they love the most. But when Ed’s mother, Dawn, appears on their doorstep, Florrie just knows that chaos will ensue. Where other parents would be delighted with the success of their children, Dawn’s presence especially is one that worries everyone, as Dawn never showed any interest in Ed at all, and always has a personal agenda… Luckily Florrie is surrounded by the best friends she could ever imagine, as they always have her back, even if they cannot stop themselves by teasing Florrie with absurd hen do activities. And the customers of the bookshop couldn’t be more loyal. But will that be enough to let Florrie and Ed have their happily ever after? Or will it all slip through their fingers anyway?

When I started reading this book, I was wondering what could possibly happen next to this wonderful couple that already had to face a lot of challenges. Why couldn’t they just get their happily ever after without any hiccup? But on the other hand, if they did, we wouldn’t be falling in love even more with not only Florrie and Ed, but all their friends and family.

At the start of the book, it was truly great to see how happy Florrie and Ed were. We know that they have had their struggles before, and having found their happy place, it was just heartwarming to read. They have both grown so much throughout the books, with also a few ups and downs, but they seemingly made it.

I am not engaged or married myself, so I have not had the experience of having a hen do. But I could understand Florrie’s worries, as it is all out of her hands, and while she trusts her friends and loves them a lot, well, they are a crazy bunch, aren’t they 😊.

How hilarious was it to read how easily Florrie is made believe that her hen do will be something terrible! It isn’t a sign of Florrie being somehow gullible, but more of how persuasive her friends are, and how well they know her and love her. Because each activity is not just right for Florrie, but just spot – on!

But also in time of need can Florrie count on her friends, not only to unload her worries, but also to be there, to help her out, to comfort her and advise her. Because in this book, there are several moments that Florrie need to be surrounded by her friends, to help her trough her and Ed’s turmoil…

When Dawn appears, I knew that she would be changed even a bit. And the more the story progressed, the more it felt that Dawn’s character even worsened. How can a person be so vile,; mean, devious? And poor Ed, going through that all, at the hand of his own family…

But I also liked it, in a twisted kind of way, seeing how Ed is standing up for himself, expressing himself. Not only towards Dawn, but in a sweeter way, how Ed is also expressing his feelings towards Florrie, and how Florrie herself appreciates the grow he has been through.

And for Florrie, what happens for sure is a challenge, because if Dawn’s appearance and scheming wouldn’t be enough, she has to face one of her biggest fears…

But no matter what challenge the pair is facing, the love, the connection between them, is strong enough to go through it all, to get even closer and united. And that is the real strength of the story.

Because if you have this connection with someone, if you have already been through so much together, you as a couple can be strong enough for all the new curveballs. Even when things may seem to go downwards, as long as the love is there, the communication is there, the unity is there, after every rainfall there will be sunshine again.

Eliza J Scott put so much in this story, so much feelings (mainly good ones, but also disappointing ones concerning behaviour), so much heart, so much love that made me devour this book. Not that I expected any less from her!

When the voices of the past makes you want to uncover the truth about a well – known injustice

Synopsis

Now: When Ruthie gets the part of one of Macbeth’s famous three witches she can’t wait to get started. Inspired by the beauty of the film’s Scottish locations and the camaraderie of the cast and crew, she can leave behind the expectations of her family and her lacklustre love life, at least for now. But as echoes from the past begin whispering in Ruthie’s ear and a restless spirit draws her further into its centuries-old secrets, it soon becomes clear that only she can uncover the truth of a terrible injustice.

1050 Scotland: Isobel and her two sisters have learnt about healing from their loving mother Sidheag, and she in turn has kept them safe. But without the protection of their late father, Sidheag knows that her daughters must find husbands or their futures are at risk.

Isobel believes in love over duty and when she catches sight of King Macbeth’s stepson Lulach she can picture a happiness she had hardly dare imagine. But as heir to a Scottish throne that is drenched in blood, Lulach’s destiny is to be a warrior. When Isobel’s actions leave her and her sisters vulnerable to accusations of witchcraft there may be nothing that can keep the three women safe, not even the great Macbeth himself.

As the calls from the past grow ever louder, Ruthie has no choice. Macbeth’s witches have a story that needs to be told and the truth can no longer stay hidden…

My review

Ruthie cannot believe that she has been chosen to play one of the three witches of Macbeth’s story. And of course, it helps that all the scenes are being shot at Scottish locations, far away from the disappointing remarks from her family, and the remarks of her non – existing love life. While she befriends her fellow actors and the locals, she starts to hear and see things that are in away inexplicable. Because it would appear that there is a restless spirit lurking around… A spirit that would be of Isobel, who used to live with her two sisters in 1050’s Scotland. Isobel that has learned about how nature can heal, but without any protection from their late father, must need to find a husband for a happy future. But not like her sisters, Isobel isn’t looking for a husband, until she meets King Macbeth’s stepson, Lulach.  And then Isobel starts to believe in a happy future, with Lulach. But Lulach is destined to become not only a warrior, but also a King. And when the rumours of the sisters being witches, the siblings’ lives are more than ever at risk…

As an Italian Belgian/ Belgian Italian, I am of course familiar with the works of Shakespeare. But while I know the stories in detail, I cannot tell you exactly what happens in which story. Or at least not of every story. And unfortunately, that is applicable for Macbeth…

But on the other hand, as this story uses Macbeth as inspiration, it gave me a clear and open – minded view on the story of Isobel, witches in general and the story of ‘side – characters’ beside Macbeth himself.

Of course there is a dual timeline, where we get to know both Ruthie and Isobel at the same time. Their lives are obviously very different, not only because they live in different eras, but they are both at a different stage in their lives.

What I loved about Ruthie from the start of the book, is her passion for acting. She knows that it isn’t what her family want for her and her future, but acting is what makes her heart skip a beat. And even if it isn’t the career that brings in the big moneys, she cannot imagine doing anything else. That is truly admirable, how she keeps on chasing her big dream.

And I liked it how Ruthie is this open person. She is kind towards everybody, and even when people aren’t that equally kind, she doesn’t change her behaviour. She remains that kind and understanding person.

Upon hearing and seeing the strange things in Scotland, I think I would be more terrified than Ruthie is. I am already a scaredy – cat in general, but seeing things in the shadows, seeing things in the fire, and hearing the rumours about the past and the connection with Macbeth, I think I would be running away screaming like a mad woman! But Ruthie, while scared herself, she wants to discover the truth. And that makes her cross paths with like – minded people, people that have the same passion for the truth.

A truth that is showing us the terrors of the past, that we are all aware of, of how people, especially women were accused of witchcraft…

Reading Isobel’s story truly broke my heart, because of the injustice she had to face, of the heartbreaks she had to endure. And all that while in fact, she is just an innocent young woman, just wanting happiness for her sisters and herself.

At the start of the book, everything is going rather okay with Isobel and her family. And I liked it how they all use the wonders of the nature for ailments. And how everyone from their village goes to all of them, to get the healing they need.

Isobel is a normal young woman, just wanting to be happy and content with her life. And she wishes her sisters all the love they deserve.

Their lives may be one of living in the woods, but Isobel and especially her mother, are respected by everyone, even by the queen. Their mixtures of herbs, their ‘visions’ in the flames, everyone relies on their help somehow.

Even with Isobel’s mother passing, Isobel is the one people turn in to for help. And I liked reading how Isobel is growing more confident over time, knowing how to help. But Isobel also becomes more responsible, as she wants to protect her sisters, even if they are older than herself, from the evils of the world.

Evils that she cannot protect herself of, as she falls into the ‘spell’ of love herself… Evil, because while love should be a lovely thing, we know not only from Shakespeare himself, but also from the start of the book, that things will not end well for poor Isobel…

Evil that truly angered me, because we see how easily opinions are changed, how easy things turn for the worst for the three sisters, even fatally… All that because of the cowardice of people, the fear of people, the ignorance of people.

And I could understand why Isobel’s spirit is still haunting in the presence, due all the injustice she had to face… Even if I don’t truly believe in lingering and haunting spirits, I could understand it…

I said it also before, I found it admirable of Ruthie how she is yes, a  bit scared of what she experiencing, but she also want to find out what happens. And the more she uncovers, the more justice she wants for the young woman that was treated so badly in the past.

I found this a bittersweet story, as we see how Ruthie is making progress in her own life, while for Isobel her life is taking a turn for the worse. Yet no matter how badly things got for Isobel, at the end of the story, I felt in a way hopeful, because all the wrongdoings she had to endure are going to get a sort of redemption. Too late of course, but better late than never? And it also gives us hope as we see how Ruthie is looking forward to her own future, filled with happiness and love.

How one old cottage in the woods changes a life

Synopsis

Some houses won’t let go of the past. Some people won’t, either…

When single mum Libby is offered a life-changing sum of money to clear out an old cottage in the woods, she expects dust and decay. She doesn’t expect a house full of secrets, a room full of birds, and a woman who refuses to leave.

The handsome but stressed architect who hired Libby is also a puzzle. Why can’t Ross empty Elm Cottage himself? What can he possibly see in Libby, who has been burned by love and is wary of attachment? How can they persuade the mysterious but kindly Isobel to move on?

As Libby is pulled into the cottage’s story, she must face up to her own deepest fears. Can she help Isobel, fight the past that haunts her, and learn to open her own heart to love once more?

Jane Lovering’s new novel is a delicious, romantic mystery where secrets, love and healing weave through every page.

My review

Libby is a single mother hiding in a hostel from an abusive relationship. With money being a struggle and not having anyone to help her, she accept the offer and the substantial sum of money. What she has to do, is clear out an old cottage in the woods. Would be easy-peasy, But the woman living in the derelict cottage with a bunch of scary birds doesn’t want to leave her home at all. So with Rob chasing Libby to clear the cottage, and Isobel refusing to budge, Libby finds herself between two fires. She also finds herself invested in the story of Elm Cottage and also the reason why Rob cannot empty it himself. And then there is the issue with Rob, who clearly shows an interest in Libby. But with so many fears, Libby needs to face them first, before she can even think about anything else…

Before I start with my actual review of the book, I have to say that with this title, the genre could have perfectly been also a thriller or a horror 😊.

But, as it is a Jane Lovering, of course it is not a terrifying thriller or horror!

Right from the start, it is so obvious that Libby is not living her life, rather just surviving. With her lovely daughter Tilly, Libby is trying to make the best out of her current situation. But anyone can see that it isn’t a healthy situation they are living in. Not that Libby is a bad mother, but her fear is holding her back. And while she tries to be more courageous, to not show Tilly her fears, it isn’t easy.

And seeing that situation, truly saddened me. It shows us how left to your own devices you can be. Because yes, Libby is in hiding, and she for sure could use more help from authorities, but she is struggling on every possible level.

Despite all her struggles, Libby tries to be the best possible mother to Tilly, under these difficult circumstances. She wants her little girl to feel save, to enjoy her childhood. But she also wants to protect her from all the dangers in the world.

So when Rob ‘hires’ Libby to make sure Elm Cottage is being cleared out asap, I could understand Libby’s wariness. It is a strange request, and when Rob makes clear that money isn’t an issue, it sounded even more and more strange even to me.

I had several question marks with Rob’s behaviour, and I wondered why he cannot clear out the cottage himself. How hard can it be, right?

However, while his behaviour may look a bit shady initially, there is a logical explanation for it all, and even the money – issue made sense after Rob’s explanation.

Rob doesn’t make the best of first impressions, but the further the story evolves, the more we see how he tries to comprehend Libby and how he can support her. And while I would have expected him to want to help Libby more out, I could see how him just supporting Libby and wanting to solve everything for her, is not only the best solution for Libby, but also for Rob himself, with his background.

Libby’s fear for birds was something I could easily relate with. I am also afraid of everything with wings, but not as much as Libby. So when reading how Libby enters the cottage filled with birds, I just got terrible goosebumps! I would be running outside, screaming like a madwoman 😊.

Yet it amazed me how all those terrifying birds were somehow trained by Isobel, the woman living in the cottage.

To say that Isobel is a character, would be an understatement. She chose to not talk anymore, and that alone is already something unique. But she is also a remarkable woman, as without any words, she sees and understands everything that is happening around her. And without any words, she is able to pass her thoughts and remarks.

And yes, it is thanks to Isobel, that there are changes taking place. Not only with Libby and Tilly, but also Rob gets some important insights, that without Isobel perhaps would be kept hidden.

There is also an important message about mental health in this story. I am not going to divulge into it, as it is something you need to read and understand yourself. But what I can say, is that it made me realize that things aren’t always what they seem to be, and that it isn’t easy to understand what is truly going on. There still isn’t a clear map about how the brains and the mind function, making it also more difficult for the people around to act in the right way, without scaring away the person involved.

Perhaps this issue was handled a little bit too hasted, as I for sure found myself looking up for more information. But on the other hand, this isn’t a psychological book.

Because this book shows us how a woman living in fear, with meeting perhaps random people, can start to become a little bit more courageous. It can go from not being too scared around birds, to trust people, to let people back in your life. And perhaps even allow your heart to open up again…

While perhaps Libby’s story will not be too relatable to you, as it didn’t always was to me, it for sure worked as an inspiration, as a moment that made me want to know more. And of course, as accustomed with this lovely author, this book gave me the need to just keep on reading!

When the risk of losing your home makes you open your home to help others

Synopsis

The heartwarming new novel from the author of the million-copy bestselling CockleberryBay series

Seahaven Bay has always been a place where the sparkling tides bring laughter, love and a lot of fun. But when Rita Jory’s beloved husband Archie dies in a tragic accident, she’s left alone on their failing Cornish farm with nothing but her grieving heart, a mountain of debt and some very badly behaved goats. Faced with selling the home she loves or finding a way to make it pay, Rita has a moment of desperate inspiration. She decides to transform her beloved Seahaven Farm into a place where broken souls can heal by the sea.

With help from her sharp-tongued mother-in-law, loyal best friend, daughter and new friends, the rundown farm soon blossoms into a haven of healing, creativity and community. Rita dares to believe her future might still shimmer with possibility – and even admits her growing attraction to Jago, the gorgeous neighbouring farmer with whom the Jorys had a decades-long feud.

But just as Rita begins to find peace, long-buried secrets about Archie’s past begin to surface, forcing her to question everything she believed about the life they built together.

Rita must discover the truth and decide if she’s ready to open her heart again – to love, to hope, and to the possibility that even after loss, life can still be full of surprises.

A tender, uplifting and hilarious tale of resilience, friendship and finding light in the darkest moments, perfect for fans of Jill Mansell, Jojo Moyes and Amanda Prowse.

My review

After meeting Archie, Rita Jory left her life in London behind and moved to Seahaven Bay. While the differences couldn’t be more different, Rita enjoyed her married life on the farm with all their animals. With now her adult children having left home, and Archie dying in a tragic accident, Rita is now all left alone and with a mountain of debts she didn’t know about. The only idea she can come up with to save her beloved home and animals, is to transform her Seahaven Farm into a haven where people can heal, find their creativity (back)and find a sense of community. With the help of her best friend, her daughter, new friends and unexpectedly her mother – in – law, Rita is proud of her safe haven. And slowly Rita starts to see a bright future again, especially as there may be some growing feelings for Jago, her neighbour. But falling for Jago is dangerous, as the Jorys have a decades – long feud with the gorgeous and kind farmer… And then there are secrets from Archie’s past to surface, and Rita’s own son that doesn’t understand his own mother, jeopardizing once again Rita’s whole life…

Before I started with this book, I made sure I was comfortable, I made sure that for a while I wouldn’t be disturbed and I was all ready to get swept away by another great story of an author that is only able to write wonderful stories!

Obviously, it saddened me that Rita lost her beloved husband Archie. And that now she is trying to cope with all there is left. On the other hand, I liked it how deep the love between the married couple was. Of course there are the usual disagreements between husband and wife, but Archie and Rita loved each other very much. And that was in a way refreshing, because often in a book, the main character has been facing some wrongdoing, or things ended badly. And yes, Archie died, so Rita is heartbroken, but you get what I want to say, right? 😊

Yet it saddened me also to read in how much trouble Rita is now. She didn’t know the depth of the debts, and she already made the difficult decision to sell some of the land. But it is just not enough…

But while initially Rita is a bit down, and doesn’t see any silver linings, she comes up with a great idea. The idea may have come out of desperation, but for sure it is a great one. In a world with too many expectations, too much stress and too many temptations, a Seahaven Farm is exactly what a lot of people could and would need in their lives.

And the revamped Farm is also what Rita needs at this moment in her life. Because it is clear that while she keeps her head up high, she still finds it difficult to be in a life where there is no Archie anymore. And it broke my heart to see how difficult Rita finds it to talk about her loss, to even her own daughter…

Rita truly starts to live up again when the wheels have been set into motion, and seeing this Rita, full of energy in a way, with a determination to make it all work, was just lovely to read. The matter of opening her Farm up for those who need a helping hand in any way, makes her realize that her life isn’t over and that there is still so much that Rita can do, and that she still matters.

It also warmed my heart reading how Rita is making new friends. New friends that perhaps you and I would chase away. But it is a testament to Rita’s character, that she accepts everyone how they are. She doesn’t have any prejudice, and even when a big secret is being revealed, she shows with her actions that she is one of the good ones.

Talking about secrets… It would be strange if everything would go straightforward for Rita. There is the mystery of the will, the weird behaviour of her son, and a mother – in – laws who helps her, but also warns her to stay away from her neighbour and let the past rest.

A past that haunts her, as secret messages are telling her that the truth will be revealed at the right time…  A past that somehow yet mysteriously also involves her neighbour Jago.

As an Italian, I know how feuds works, and how they can last for decades 😊 But I was also very curious how Jago fitted into the whole picture.

Because the Jago we see in this book, is perhaps a bit standoffish at the start, but we also see that he doesn’t hesitate to help Rita in one way or another. So I couldn’t understand how this nice man could be part of a feud between families lasting for so long.

Despite that feud, I was cheering for Rita and Jago, because it is clear that there is attraction between them. And even if it went against my own hopes, I liked it how Nicola May made it a attracting and pulling away story. The one moment things seem to evolve positively, while the next, something (even inexplicable) happens, pulling Rita and Jago even further away…

It may seem that there isn’t a lot happening in this book, it isn’t filled with action. But don’t be fooled, it isn’t because there isn’t a lot of action, that there aren’t a lot of things going on. Rita for sure has her hands full with making her vision become reality. But there is also a calmness in this book, which is infectious to the readers.

Nicola May let us met with a wonderful, kind and open main character, who shows us that it is never too late to start again. But also that grief and hurt isn’t something that easy to get over, but that it works differently to each of us. And that same grief and hurt can let us act in a way that isn’t us.

I truly loved this book, as it shows us so many emotions, from the ugly ones to the beautiful ones. And it shows us how one idea can be the right incentive to see life again brightly. And how happiness can be found again, if you just are courageous enough.

What an inspiring and heartwarming story once again from an amazing author!

When getting together was the easy part…

Synopsis

Scarlett Hope has found a surprising rhythm at Haddon House. Just months into life with Laird Edward Cameron-Reid, their chemistry is electric, and the future feels full of promise – but something inside her is stirring. She’s traded city charm for estate calm yet still feels caught between worlds. 

Then Harry shows up. A famous music producer – and a blast from Scarlett’s past – he’s in town to film with a renowned band. His arrival is magnetic, disruptive, and the last thing she ever expected. Scarlett loves Edward, but Harry’s presence reawakens the version of herself she thought she’d left behind. 

When Edward’s daughter announces she’s pregnant and moves in full-time, the pressure only grows. And when Scarlett meets Sophie, a young woman struggling to make a home for her unborn child, one small act of kindness turns into something far bigger – a project that might just change everything. But as tragedy strikes, Scarlett faces a deeper choice – not between two men, but between who she was and who she’s becoming. 

Too Much to Hope For is a high spice, emotionally layered story of love, legacy, and identity – about staying rooted in love while growing into something more. Perfect for readers who loved the emotional fire of A New Hope in the Highlands, the small-town heart of Things We Never Got Over, and the soul-deep reckoning of After I Do.

My review

Scarlett Hope couldn’t be happier now that everything fell into place. The bond with her mother is slowly restoring, and she is happily in love with Edward Cameron – Reid. After everything she has been through in the past, she has finally find a place to call home in Haddon House, with people she can trust and love. Yet Scarlett cannot shake the feeling that she cannot be truly be herself, as she also doesn’t has all the answers to her own questions about who the real Scarlett truly is and what would give her real purpose. To add further complications, not only is Edward struggling with holding everything together, but also an old friend from Scarlett arrives and ads extra pressure on the already frail relationship. And then there is unexpected news from Edward’s family that shakes the boat even more. How much can both Scarlett and Edward take and how strong is their relationship, as there must be a limit to their strength…

In many books, the story ends when the main characters finally get together. But in real life, we all know that getting together is the easiest part. Being in a relationship means to open up, let the other person completely in, to find compromise, to communicate and be honest. All easier said than done, but it is always a work in progress, no matter how big the love is.

We know that there is a lot of passion and desire between Edward and Scarlett, but we also know that Scarlett comes with a lot of baggage and that Edward needs to find a way to open up and let Scarlett truly in. And they should not just give in to their desire to each other, but also find a way to openly communicate about, well, everything.

And to be honest, while I loved reading the passion and the love between Edward and Scarlett, it was a bit frustrating to see how especially Scarlett is always facing a brick wall. Edward does his best, but it is difficult to let go of some habits. And it also frustrated me a bit reading how Edward doesn’t always seem to understand Scarlett. And mainly, it angered me also to see how he doesn’t always think before he speaks, hurting Scarlett more than just once in the process.

Now, I need to admit too, that Edward for sure has a lot on his plate, and things are just added on the immense pile… He truly is trying to be the man that Scarlett deserves, but you know, old habits…

When Harry enters the scene, I was truly worried about Edward and Scarlett, because not only does Edward shows a level of jealously (righteously or not…) but I could see how Harry’s presence could risk things even furthermore…

On the other hand, I was happy for Scarlett to see her old friend back, as he could remind her of the Scarlett she used to be. And perhaps that remembering the shared past, Scarlett could find her real self again. And I could see that Harry was a real supportive friend to her, even if it was crystal clear to me that his feelings perhaps weren’t just amicable…

Another thing I need to admit, is that the author for sure has a cruel streak, because Edward, Scarlett and their families are going through several hardships. Life for sure isn’t always fair to any of them, and they are all tested to their limits…

Cruel author too, as Rachel Debrave at one point made several hearts break in this book, but mine included… Again it shows how Life goes, and just how unfair and frail it all is…

In this book, Edward and Scarlett for sure are tested, not only as individuals, but also as a couple, especially as a couple. The both of are on a learning journey, where Scarlett learns and rediscovers the old Scarlett again. And she learns to stand up for herself and knows that love isn’t a free pass for one’s behaviour.

And Edward learns that love is worth the change. That being the old Edward is not what will keep the love alive and being his old self will only push Scarlett, and his loved ones further away.

This book is about change. Change that is necessary, change to just be your real self, change to let love win. Change to survive whatever curveball Life throws you. Change to become a stronger person than you already are. And that all for love’s sake…