Today it’s extract time!

Synopsis

This, the fourth and final selection of stories, completes the Seasonal Paths series created by a consortium of best-selling and award-winning North Atlantic writers.

In this anthology you will encounter unintentioned consequences, love in later life, the pull of family dynamics, misguided assumptions and murderous soulmates.

These yarns will take you to new worlds, into a ghostly abyss, across an ocean in pursuit of truth and into the darkness of ancient beliefs.

Make yourself comfortable and surrender to these multi-styled tales, all linked by the theme of summer, within the covers of this book. You will be surprised and entertained by what you find.

Extract

Flying can be dangerous. But maybe not for the reason you think!

Fakes on a Plane

By Gianetta Murray

I’VE ALWAYS LOVED THAT MOMENT when you settle into your seat on the plane at the start of your vacation and suddenly realize nothing else matters.

Not your job. Not the house. And certainly not those unrelenting requests from friends and family to help them plan/move/care for the things that matter to them. Such requests are a part of life when you’re a bachelor with—according to my loved ones—few demands on your time.

But there is absolutely nothing you can do about any of it once you’re on that plane, which is why I’m so happy right now.

For one thing, I decided to throw budgetary caution to the wind (literally, I suppose, in this case) and fly Business class. As soon as the plane takes off, I will use those lovely little buttons on the side of my seat to recline and stretch out my quite-long legs, propping my feet on the built-in footstool at the end of my “pod”. Then the impeccably trained flight attendant will bring me a drink. I checked the entertainment listing before boarding and I’m looking forward to watching several  classic action and films as I imbibe my complimentary champagne.

On top of all that, thanks to a generous Christmas bonus, I’m fulfilling a lifelong desire to visit Greece, the purported cradle of civilization. After a short stop in Athens, I’ll be spending a blissful week in Santorini where I can relax on my whitewashed hotel balcony, soaking up sunshine and the sound of the surf. I’ve even snagged a  window seat in the last row for the flight over. The pod next to me seems to be empty, so I have high hopes this will be a quiet, enjoyable journey.

What more could anyone want, I ask you?

I hear a bit of a kerfuffle going on at the front of the plane and when I look up I realize my last thought was premature. A stunningly gorgeous woman is trying to drag a hot-pink suitcase down the aisle as the flight attendant follows, annoyance making her voice carry as she insists there is no room in the overhead bins. After a short, tense standoff, the beauty throws up her perfectly manicured hands and surrenders the luggage to have it taken to the hold.

I check my watch and note she has certainly left her arrival until the very last moment. The plane is due to take off in ten minutes, and I can hear grumbling from the other passengers as they worry the plane may be delayed. I glance sideways to see this tardy goddess enter the pod next to mine and I do not feel a second of disappointment at the loss of my solitude because my new neighbor is even more attractive close up: straight, silky dark hair, a smooth, lightly tanned complexion, and a slim figure negligibly encased in a lime-green halter top and purple sweats. As she turns and bends down to place her handbag in the drawer provided, I see the word ‘Juicy’ emblazoned on the butt in silver studs. I can’t help wondering if the studs are uncomfortable to sit on as she finishes loading her carry-on into the crammed overhead locker and sinks gracefully into her seat.

She suddenly looks through the open divider space between the pods to find me watching her, and I’m struck by the deep violet of her eyes. She’s practically a modern-day Elizabeth Taylor, I think. The resemblance is enhanced by what appears to be real diamond earrings and a rather large solitaire diamond necklace. Our two seats face each other and I relish the thought of being able to enjoy that view over the next twelve hours.

Gazing back at me she smiles, showing just the right amount of predictably white, even teeth, except for one slightly crooked molar. This tiny imperfection only adds to her allure.

“Hi, I’m Charity,” she says. “It looks like we’re seatmates for the next few hours.”

Her voice is lower than I expected it to be—not that it matters at  this point, all other expectations having been thoroughly exceeded. I do a quick check to ensure the absence of an Adam’s apple (I’ve been fooled before) and am reassured to see everything about her says she’s all woman. I also think I can hear a subtle Mediterranean accent.

I suddenly realize I’ve been staring and mentally slap myself out of my daze. “Uh, hello. I’m Frank. Pleased to meet you.”

Is it truly the end?

Synopsis

Spouses Without Benefits – how can you move on without moving out?

Freya and Joe’s marriage has fizzled its way to the end, but for financial reasons, and to support their daughter in her final year of school, they decide they need to keep living together for six months.

They know it won’t be easy, but for Joe at least, it provides creative rewards: a struggling sitcom writer, he has found his new project. Why not write about his own situation? And the network loves it.

There is just one problem – Freya doesn’t know.

Can Freya and Joe navigate the six months together and might they find out something new about their relationship?

A relatable second-chance romcom perfect for fans of Mike Gayle and Beth O’Leary.

My review

Freya and Joe have been married for many years. Unfortunately, things aren’t anymore the same as they were at the beginning, with a separation the only solution. But for financial reasons, and not wanting to disrupt the last year of school of their daughter, they decide to keep living together for those last six months.
With strict rules and agreements made, Freya and Joe are trying to live according to the new arrangements. Easier said than done of course, because this is new territory for everyone. And how can Joe tell Freya that he finally found new inspiration for a new sitcom, but that it is all based on his experiences with the separation? And what will happen when those six months are over?

As this was my first encounter with this author, I didn’t really know what to expect from this book. So in my mind, I had expected more action, more nasty and sneaky backstabbing, with actual heavy fights.

Yet I positively surprised when realization dawned that this isn’t the kind of story where a separated couple want to see each other’s blood, but are trying to keep things amicable, and want to do their best to be honest, fair and respectful towards each other. I think that many people in a likewise situation could learn from reading this book.

Obviously this isn’t a story where the new changes are accepted easily, and everything just goes smoothly. No, because both Freya and Joe need to adapt to this changed interaction, this new situation for them. And it is not without trial and error that they move forward.

What I liked about this couple, is that it isn’t that there was this big incident that means the end of their marriage. But it’s just a matter that perhaps the spark has gone, and they both have changed over the years. They still deeply care about each other, but it is not that their marriage is filled with excitement and fireworks.

And while it is perhaps for the wrong reasons that they are both staying in their home of the coming six months, beside the financial matters, it was also rather sweet to read how they put their daughter first, and don’t become selfish.

In a way, I pitied Joe in this story. Because he is somehow in a downward spiral since his last sitcom wasn’t the success he expected. Since then, he clearly lacks confidence and inspiration. Also the fact that he is very closed off about expressing his emotions and feelings, makes his struggles not only even more painful, but also very realistic. Because let’s be honest, men used to grow up with learning not to take about such ‘stuff’…

And unfortunately, him not speaking out, also creates awkward situations with Freya, especially when he starts to use his own experiences as inspiration. Of course we all know beforehand that Freya won’t be all that thrilled with Joe’s latest writings…

Not only Joe is struggling with all the adaptations, also Freya is. So this isn’t absolutely a case of a bad person vs. a good person. It is all circumstantial, and in a way even necessary.

Freya has and always will be supporting Joe, and she never has and never will blame him for his struggles, work-related and otherwise.  But I can understand her when she feels that there should be more in a marriage to survive than the marriage she is in now.

While of course a separation is unfortunate, it also gives Freya the chance to find herself again. During their marriage, it is clear that during the whole process, Freya lost herself a bit. Ans seeing this Freya who is freer, was just amazing to see.

That doesn’t mean of course that she just does as she pleases, as she still takes Joe’s feelings in account, and she keeps wondering if despite the missing sparks, a separation is the right solution.

This is truly a journey for both Joe and Freya, trying to figure out where their future lays. There are several downs, but also so many ‘ups’ as they both try to do their best to make it all go as smoothly as possible. And that is truly inspiring, to keep the bigger picture in mind, no matter what happens.

I found this a great book to read, as it gives you not only an idea what it is to go through a separation, but also the emotional turmoil the couple can find themselves in. Doing the right thing isn’t always easy, because what is the right thing to do truly? 

As a first encounter with this author, it for sure was a great one! The struggles and the pain felt so real, but also the happier moments kept putting a smile on my face! What looked as a painful story at the start, turned into a great, sweet, even funny, heartwarming story!

Returning to a city full of memories and secrets

Synopsis

A return to Venice. A friendship rekindled. A time for romance.

Natalie’s landed the opportunity of a lifetime hosting television show ‘Luxe Life Swap’, but she’s dreading going back to Venice, scene of the school trip that changed her life. The beauty of the floating city and handsome watch restorer Eraldo begin to win her over, however. But then glamorous contestant Cate arrives, the girl who was once plain, ordinary Cathy – the ex-best friend Natalie blames for the night that wrecked her life.

Cate’s swapping The Old Vicarage for two weeks in a Venetian palazzo, hoping she might pluck up the courage to go on the quest she’s been putting off for more than twenty years. Forced to spend time with Natalie, Cate hopes to rebuild their friendship – until Natalie makes a shocking accusation against Cate’s husband. Cate needs to find out the truth but how can she expect Phil to be honest when she’s keeping secrets of her own?

My review

Natalie doesn’t know how to feel with the opportunity of a life time, as a host of television show Luxe Life Swap. Of course she cannot let the moment pass, but this chance also means returning to Venice, the place where one night her life got wrecked during a school trip. To make things even worse, the couple that is swapping places, is married couple Cate and Phil. For Cate it may the perfect chance to finally get some answers. But having to stay in Venice with Natalie, was not what Cate expected… And when Natalie reveals her secret, that somehow involves Cate’s husband Phil, will this holiday be one to remember kindly, or one to be totally forgotten?

When I started this book, it was a bit with mixed feelings. Not because I wasn’t sure about the story, but more because of the setting. Of course as an Italian Belgian/ Belgian Italian, I just need to read a book that takes place in Italy. However… Venice is just not a city that stole my heart. I have been there a few times, and yes, I absolutely appreciate the history and the art. But I absolutely do not like the too touristy things. Finding a peaceful, quiet place there is difficult, and you are everyone surrounded by tourists (yes, it is hypocritical of me, as I was a tourist myself there). But I don’t like overcrowded places…

But my love for Italy won over my dislike of Venice, so there I was, reading a story that blew me away.

Right from the start it is clear that there is a connection between Natalie and Cate. Something happened many moons ago, that made the girls drift apart, and even tear up their close friendship. And I couldn’t wait to discover what it was, and what actually happened during that fatal school trip. Yet I had to show a lot of patience (which I do not have! 😊) and keep on reading to have finally have the secrets revealed.

Of course the first meeting as adults is an awkward one between Natalie and Cate, as both women do not know how to behave or act when together. It is clear that there are several unfinished business between them, yet it is also clear that it isn’t just one incident that needs to be talked about.

Having a friendship disrupted many years ago, it cannot be easy to make amends. Grudges only grow over the years, and mistakes and errors cannot be just forgiven and forgotten, no matter how beautiful and sentimental that may sound.

Yet Natalie and Cate are both mature enough now to at least attempt to move on. And slowly, they become friends again, and that easiness that there once was, resurfaces again. Of course not everything goes smoothly, and there needs to be done a lot of restoring, but beneath the surface, the essence of their friendship is still there.

With the both of them being in Venice, Natalie and Cate have both the chance to face their demons, to face their fears. The demons are very different for each character, and each character grows the further the book evolves. 

Because this isn’t only a book that focusses on the bad things that happened in the past. But it is also a story filled with possibilities, chances and redemption.

Redemption for several characters, not only Natalie and Cate, but also for Phil. Redemption in a way to make all the wrong – doings right again, even if that is not always possible. But redemption can also come in the form of putting the past behind you, and look forward and no longer behind. Putting the past behind you can bring a brighter future on your path, bring new and old people back on your path.

I truly enjoyed reading this book, showing the power and the hold that the past can have on you. But also and mainly how liberating it can be to let go of it, and how unburdening it can be to forgive and look forward!  

Life is never dull, one way or another

Synopsis

The Yorkshire village of Beddingfield is home to the wonderful women of the Allen family: teacher Robyn, wannabe chef Jess, teenage tearaway Sorrel and matriarch Lisa, who holds the whole family together. But underneath her warmth and brilliance, Lisa has a secret – she longs to know who she really is.

In Hudson House, the grand manor on the edge of Beddingfield which is now a care home, lives seventy-something Eloise Howard. With film star beauty but memories fading fast, Eloise is slowly taking one foot at a time back into her past. Born into a prestigious family, her father the owner of the local Hudson’s Mill, Eloise’s life was destined to be one of finishing schools and balls. But when her path crossed Junayd Sattar’s, the most striking and kindest man she had ever met, nothing would ever be the same again.

When Lisa begins to spend time at Hudson House and befriends Eloise, the two women form an unbreakable bond. But unbeknownst to them both, they share secrets that, once uncovered, will change everything they believed about their own lives.

In her unmatched warm and uplifting voice, Julie Houston’s funny and profoundly moving tale of forbidden love, friendship and family ties will stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page… Perfect for fans of Jenny Colgan, Fiona Gibson and Cathy Kelly.

My review

The Allen family are all settling in in the village of Beddingfield, especially since Robyn has returned from London and found her feet as a drama teacher and is back with her boyfriend Fabian. Meanwhile her sister Jess keeps on dreaming to become a chef, and Sorrel, the youngest sibling is ready to audition in London. And after struggling for a while, the siblings’ mother, Lisa, not only is finally managing to keep the family together, but she is also trying to find meaning in her life too. But even in a small village like Beddingfield, life is never dull, and when Hudson House, the care home where Jess is working, it as risk of closing, worries arise about the people staying at the House. And one in particular, especially as Eloise has a very personal link with Hudson House, being a Hudson herself. Despite her dementia, during her clearer moments, she fondly remembers how she in her younger years connected with a young man. But life doesn’t always go as expected, and Eloise her life didn’t exactly go as planned by her family. But her secrets may be connected to one member of the Allen family…

I have read the first book of the series, and I have to admit, while I was eager to start this new chapter, it took me a while to just get back into it. And it has absolutely nothing to do with the author or the story, but just because it has been a while ago since finishing Book Nr. 1. And while perhaps this book can be read as a standalone, I suggest to read the first book, as it will give you just so much more insights of the characters, and it is of course a great story to read!

It was great to see how the story of the Allen family just continues from where the first book left us. And in a way, it was great to read how things aren’t going smoothly for anyone. Because that is just the reality, life never is only filled with rainbows and sunshine. In order to have those rainbows, we need the rain, don’t we?

There is a lot of going on with each character in this book. Robyn is keeping things light at work, not wanting to settle down with being a teacher. And it is not a matter of fear, but it is a genuine not knowing where her future will be. 

Because her love story with Fabian is still an ongoing one. There are decisions that needs to be made, choices to be made. But there is also the fact of insecurities. As Fabian’s family, and especially his mother, isn’t the easiest one, it makes Robyn doubt that they will  be endgame.

And that is in a way a recurring theme, insecurities. Insecurities that may jeopardize everything that has been building up.

Because not only Robyn is doubting herself and wondering about her future, and not only the other siblings are going through a rough patch, also Lisa, the matriarch is struggling.

I have to admit, I never heard of her disease before it appeared in this series. But even if I didn’t know the details about it, I was happy to see Lisa getting back up, and being able to be the person she wants to be, the active and present person, and especially mother she needs to be.

Of course we meet Eloise in this book. And yes, my heart went out to her. I cannot imagine how it feels to not remembering or just not knowing who you are, where you are and what year it is. Yet I was curious to read her story, discover her past, and especially learn how Eloise Hudson, from a family with a status, is linked with the Allen family, that is a loving family, but also a tiny bit messed up one.

The more the story evolved, the more the general feeling for me was: how will it all turn out? Because I for sure kept amounting all the questions in my head, and I was very curious to see how it would all turn out.

There are several issues, questions and secrets in this book. But all of that disappeared because there is also and mainly a lot of warmth and love in it. No matter what is going on, the Allen family members all have each other’s back, there is support, love, and compassion.

Each character also has a lot of growth, they all learn from their mistakes, realizes their wrongdoings, show courage when needed. And that was lovely to read, the evolution of each character, but at the same time never losing the essence that makes them uniquely them.  They are also real people, that make mistakes, misjudge things yet aren’t afraid to admit their faults.

I loved reading this next chapter of a wonderful, realistic and warm family. A family that is still facing a lot of issues, but do not let anything or anyone break them apart. Julie Houston managed to grasp perfectly what it means to be a family, what it means for a person to grow and mature. And what it means to even to dare to dream big and dare to take a leap of faith.

Even non – horsey people can love a book about horses, can’t they?

Synopsis

When Megan Johnson inherits an old cottage in the Welsh countryside, she seizes the opportunity to cut ties with her past life, after a broken romance. Her nearest neighbour, a horse trainer, is also something of an enigma. Single dad Glyn Phillips does his best to balance his love of horses and hard work, with his devotion to his son. When he meets his new neighbour, he knows he should resist any attraction. A feisty pony mare which mysteriously appears on his land adds to his problems, but another, larger problem lies ahead. Two matchmaking spirits find their carefully laid plans may not go as smoothly as they hope.

Guest Post

Thank you for being part of my ‘Book Release Blog Tour’ for the Matchmaker’s Mare, Tizi.

I hope this book will appeal to non-horsey readers as well as those who are horse lovers. Although much of it takes place on a horse farm that is only one part of the story.  It is set in my native Wales, and tells of a love that lasts down the centuries, as well as a blossoming romance in the present day. 

My family was not in the least bit ‘horsey’ nor particularly well off, but when I was eleven years old, a year after my mother died after a short illness, my father arranged for riding lessons for me, having realised that I loved horses, and this was the one thing that would make me smile again. Ten years later, after saving up for five years, I bought my first horse, a  dark bay mare called Flicka, who is featured in  The Matchmaker’s Mare.

My life revolved around horses, but I also loved writing. Having had several short stories published in magazines, my ambition was to have a novel published. My first attempt, an historical western (lots of horses) still languishes on my hard drive. It appears no-one in the UK was interested in publishing that particular genre – especially since it was also a romance. I soon learned that everything I wrote turned into a love story, so I decided to ‘go with the flow’ and accept that I was a romance writer.  My other interest besides writing and horses, was space, so it was natural that my next novel, Starquest would be a Science Fiction Romance,  but again I had no luck with UK publishers. 

Then I heard of the U.S. publisher The Wild Rose Press and to my delight Starquest was accepted and became the first book in the Destiny Trilogy. Naturally I managed to fit horses into the first two books, although in the third one, the female protagonist has a wolflike creature as her animal companion, since horses would not have fitted into that particular storyline. 

Of course I wanted to write a novel featuring horses, and I knew it would be a paranormal or fantasy.  I had several  unpublished ‘horsey’ short stories, including one about a witch and her pony. This gave me the idea for my novel. The witch became a matchmaker, with the pony being an important feature of the story. 

In The Matchmaker’s Mare, Megan Johnson knows very little about horses, buther neighbour, Glyn Phillips, a horse trainer, shares her love of animals in general which gives them something in common. Ironically it is the little mare, Seren (Welsh for Star) who helps bring them together, although their journey is destined not to be without its problems.

Seren is referred to by Glyn as being a ‘Welsh pony of cob type.’ This might sound a little vague to anyone not familiar with the Welsh horse breeds, so I thought I’d give a brief explanation. 

There are four breeds of Welsh pony. The smallest, known as Section A in the Welsh Stud Book is the Welsh Mountain Pony, Section B is the Welsh Pony, and is a little larger. Section C is The Welsh Pony of Cob Type, which is what  Seren would have been, so-called because of they are a smaller version of the Welsh Cob, and Section D is The Welsh Cob, which is the largest of the four breeds, and a horse rather than a pony.

The Matchmaker’s Mare is a tribute to all the horses I have ever owned, and some of them are included in its pages. The humans, including the two matchmaking spirits have the major roles, of course, and I hope you will enjoy reading about them as much as I enjoyed writing about them.

When your love for animals change your life completely

Synopsis

A delicious friends to lovers, forced proximity, workplace romance for 2025.

A 30th birthday celebration. A sloth sanctuary in Costa Rica. A split-second decision.

When Kat MacDonald takes the trip of a lifetime to Costa Rica, she doesn’t count on ditching her dead-end job, sending her uber-controlling boyfriend packing and volunteering at a sloth sanctuary.
But when she finally meets the swoon-worthy assistant manager Dexter, the chemistry between them is unmistakeable and sparks fly. Despite a rival for his affections, and her ex’s inability to know when to give up, she and Dexter are drawn to each other like magnets.
Just as she’s settling into life at the sanctuary and making friends, a letter arrives from back home in Scotland. A letter which could both upset her new plans and give her everything she has ever wanted. Everything except Dexter.
Kat is torn: should she stay in the tropical rainforest paradise with her beloved sloths, new friends and the delectable Dexter or pursue her lifelong dream? Or can she find a way to have it all?

A fun, escapist read full of romance, beautiful scenery and humour, perfect for fans of Emily Henry, Beth O’Leary Leonie Mack and Portia MacIntosh.

My review

After a devastating loss, Kat MacDonald finally managed to fulfil her dream: to make a trip to Costa Rica. Even if the plans were initially different, she is ready to enjoy this time with her boyfriend Aidan. And she cannot wait to visit the sloth sanctuary! However, this holiday isn’t going as planned, because instead of doing exciting things, Aidan doesn’t pay any attention to Kat at all, and when he does, it is in a negative way. But enough is enough, and even if they are on holiday, Kat decides to break things off with him. And before she knows it, she has quit her job and is volunteering at the sloth sanctuary. There she meets a lot of new people, with a shared love for the animals. And there she also meet Dexter, and sparks fly rather immediately. But being a volunteer in Costa Rica supposed to be only temporarily, and with her mother and even her ex pushing her to return home, Kat starts to wonder where home truly is…

I have to admit, before this book, I never had given sloths that many thoughts. My knowledge of them were rather limited, and when I think about them, I think about movies like Zootopia/ Zootropolis and Ice Age. So while I was eager to read a new book from this amazing author, I was also curious to see is I would grow to like or even love these animals I don’t know much about.

At the start of this book, it would seem that Kat has a rather good life. I don’t think that many would be able to go on a trip to Costa Rica, and with a boyfriend that has been there through the most difficult time of Kat’s life, and there are plans for moving in together.

But this apparent good life only shows that we don’t always see what truly is going on. Because rather quickly, I felt that things weren’t that great at all. Not only is Kat obviously still in pain over losing her father, but also things with Aidan aren’t that perfect at all.

And it needs to be said, that I didn’t exactly warm to Aidan myself. Of course, we know that things will end between badly between them, but seeing how Aidan is acting, I couldn’t understand why Kat didn’t see this side before and how she has been able to just stand him.

So yes, I was proud of Kat when she ends things with him, and stands up for herself and her new acquaintances. It cannot be easy to break up a relationship, especially not when you are on holiday together and have plans for the future. But when it needs to be done, it needs to be done.

While Kat was courageous in breaking up with Aidan, I also found her a ‘bit’ impulsive… I understand the passion you can have for something, or for a specific species. And yes, becoming a volunteer at a sloth sanctuary is not an opportunity you can find every day, but if I were in Kat’s shoes, I don’t think I would quit my job, leave home behind that easily. But of course, that is also the beauty of Kat, she follows her instincts, her gut feelings, and goes with the flow.

On the other hand, that impulsiveness also causes issues that with more calmness and thinking – time could have easily been avoided.

Issues that often somehow involve Dexter…

I could so easy understand the attraction Kat starts to feel for this stranger. Not only do they share a love for sloths, but there is an easiness between them, that is perhaps even something to be envious of. There is this instant connection, clear visible sparks that fly around. And while in other occasions I would be frowning as how fast Kat is falling for someone else after her breakup, in this case, it just makes perfect sense.

But like I said, Kat’s impulsiveness cause also a lot of misunderstandings and issues. There were several moments where I just wanted to should at Kat for not doing something rash, but take her time, talk about what she may think to have heard or seen…

The moments where Kat and Dexter “get along”, and where they are trying to see how things progress between them, were just so sweet and great to read. And when they don’t get along, it was frustrating, because their issues are so futile, non-existing! Both characters deserve each other, as they are just both so lovely!

Obviously, there is a lot of spotlight also on these wonderful animals. And yes, I have to admit that I have learned to appreciate them, and that I for sure would love to volunteer in a sanctuary, just like Kat does in this book. 😊

There is one thing that I absolutely didn’t appreciate in this book. Don’t worry Susan, it has to do with the behaviour of a character, nothing to do with your amazing writing skills. I was so disappointed in Kat’s mother. I can understand that a parent – child relationship isn’t always as easy. But it angered me reading how Kat’s mother just took Aidan’s side, kept on insulting Kat and her choices and even used Kat’s beloved father in attempts to make Kat go back home.

All Kat’s choices, decisions, doubts, misunderstandings and even questions, are a learning curve for her. She makes her bed and lies in it, through trial and error she understands what makes her heart beat faster, what makes her feel good. Kat not only learns even more about sloths, but about herself too.

There is only one way to end this revies. And that is by stating that Susan Buchanan just swept me off my feet with this latest story! I fell in love with it from the very start, and I just never stopped loving it, even the hardest, more difficult bits couldn’t dimmish my love for the Kat’s story!

To save a bookshop, to protect your heart

Synopsis

A love story she didn’t see coming…

When book lover Jade Taylor applies to manage the Little Bay Book Shack on Nantucket Island over the summer, the last thing she needs is the distraction of billionaire resort owner, Liam Haven.

But things take an unexpected turn when Liam becomes Jade’s boss – a man who only reads contracts for pleasure…

In a bid to save the bookshop from being absorbed into the Haven resort, Jade is determined to teach Liam that there’s more to life than acquiring real estate. And if she can make him realise happily ever afters do exist, might she be able to save the island’s bookshop in the process?

My review

Jade Taylor needs to prove herself, that is exactly why she accepted the job to manage the Little Bay Book Shack on Nantucket Island over summer. But what Jade didn’t expect was that already on her first day, she would meet Liam Haven. And out of character, they spend a wonderful night together, even if it’s with no strings attached. So when Jade discovers that Liam is not only her boss, as he just bought the book shop, but that he is also planning on closing the shop permanently, it’s an understatement that Jade is not amused. Hearing about this, Jade has a new mission: to show Liam how important books are to people, even if Liam never reads a book himself. Yet no matter how much Jade and Liam are clashing over the future of the book shop, that initial attraction they had, doesn’t appear to be disappearing at all. And the more that Jade learns about Liam’s ways and reasons of being so closed off, the more Jade realizes that behind that tough attitude, is something completely different. If only she could show Liam that there is no need for hiding and that there can be a happy end even for him?

It’s not a secret that I always enjoy reading books from this author. So of course I was very eager to read this next book of her!

Although I need to say I was a bit shocked about those first chapter, as things got steamy rather quickly. Now, I am not a prude, as I have read several steamy stories and I am not ashamed about that, but it was just not what I expected to read so early on! 😊 But it was also necessary for the storyline, as we needed Jade and Liam to have this physical attraction early on, to only have an emotional attraction and growth later on.

I liked Jade right from the start. Even if I am not the kind of person that would do what Jade does in this book, there are also many similarities and there is just an instant connection I had with her. Those differences between me and her, I am absolutely not talking about her and Liam on the first day, or wanting to shame her in any way. But it is also, and perhaps mainly, about her leaving her home behind, and travel many miles, for a temporarily job.

Yet I admired her for it, as not only she is following her passion and her love for books, but also as she wants to show the world that she is more than just a pretty face. At the same time, it also saddened me, as she has the need to prove that, as she is often being judged for her looks, but also compared to her sister.

Jade is such an open, warm, loving and even sunny character, I could understand how easily people are captured by her, and how easily she makes friends in a new place. But she is of course also the kind of person that gives everyone a fair chance. We see this in the way she clashes with Liam over the book shop, but how she cannot stand the gossiping about him, or the rude remarks that are made about him. Remarks that are not always correct to be made…

It would be too easy to classify Liam as obnoxious, only cares about money and himself. And yes, his behaviour would apparently only confirm the above. But it is also so very clear that his tough attitude, his nonchalance towards other is just a façade. A façade to let anyone see how insecure in fact he is, and how much the past has scarred him.

And yes, throughout the book, he makes a lot of wrong decisions, he says the absolute wrong things, especially to Jade. But in a way, I couldn’t blame him for being so clumsy when it comes to feelings. Because he had to protect himself for so long, and out of fear, he has become this closed, even standoffish character.

Liam is for sure having a difficult time in this book. Because he has always been able to keep his distance from everything and everyone, with the exception of his grandma, that he loves more than anything. Yet when Jade arrives on the scene, he is out of depth.

So it was lovely to see how Jade is able to slowly break down those walls. And how funny it was to read how Jeremy just doesn’t care and keeps on poking that bear that Liam can be! 😊

This story for sure shows us a lot of growth. Jade learns not only about what makes her heart beat faster, but how to be independent. And she also learns that she is more than enough, that she isn’t lesser than anyone else. And that anyone who made her believe that, or dent her self-esteem, is just an idiot. All this while Liam learns to open up, to allow people in his heart. He learns that there are people that genuinely care about him, and that will always have his back, no matter how many stupid things he may say or do. But most important, that even if love can be a scary thing, and that it may have hurt him in the past, it can also be a wonderful thing.

Kathryn Freeman wrote a great story, with yes some steamy scenes, but never losing the bigger picture. We see that passions are not always shared, but that openness can make us understand them better. And that despite the scars of the past, with the right person(s) having your back, even the biggest wounds can be healed. And that in love, even the cheesiest gestures can be the most perfect ones!

When marriage is not on the cards, but must be, is there a second chance?

Synopsis

Can a ballroom reunion… Lead to a union at the altar? 

War hero James Ashworth needs a rich wife to restore his family’s fortune. Despite the scars battle left on his soul, he’ll do his duty—even if everywhere he turns, he sees the woman he loved and lost…

Meeting James catapults widow Amelia back to the past— the letters he stopped responding to while at Waterloo and her subsequent forced marriage. Yet, when she discovers her father’s role in the Ashworths’ misfortune, she’s compelled to help—even if she has no intention of falling for the man who broke her heart!

My review

As Amelia and James lived practically next door of each other, they not only grew up together, but they also developed sweet feelings towards each other. But then James left to battle at Waterloo, and Amelia has not heard from him since then. Now James has returned as a hero, even if he doesn’t see himself like that, there are women looking to become the new Lady Ashworth. But Ash, as friends call him, is looking at getting married at all. Especially when there are way too many financial worries. And especially when he keeps on meeting Amelia several times. Amelia, the woman that broke his heart by marrying someone else while he was in battle, and did not wait for him. Even if she is a widow now, and she could do as she pleases, Amelia wants anything but getting married again. And she for sure does not want to rekindle the friendship she once had with Ash, especially as he stopped answering the letters she sent him. But when she discovers that her father is responsible for the financial misfortune Ash and his family is in, she cannot just walk away…

I have read several books written by this author, and loved them all, even if they were taking place in a different era than this book. Yet I was curious to see how Ella would “cope” in a different era. And let me say, I was very pleasantly surprised by it, yet it shouldn’t have, as I should have trusted Ella’s writing skills!

The world where Amelia and Ash are living in, has been for sure romantized in books, films and even plays. It is of course dreamy, going to balls, having those dances, sneaky glances. But we often also forget that it is also a world where especially women could not be as independent as we are now, and there not a lot freedom, especially when there is a lot of responsibilities involved.

And that is something we see in both characters’ lives.

While Amelia is now a widow, she is still looking after her younger siblings. She worries about them, as she is now in a way head of the family. But what saddened me, was to read how she was forced into marrying a man she did not love. Everyone should be free to marry (or even not) the person they love, and not marry because of duty.

In a way, despite her forced marriage, Amelia got lucky, as her husband wasn’t a mean person. But there just wasn’t that spark. And even in the bedroom, Amelia never got the pleasure to discover what pleasure means…

It is strange to say, but Amelia being a widow, gives her much more freedom than she could imagine. There are no expectations to fulfil, as Amelia has been done, done that. And the fact that there are no children involved, makes things even easier for her.

I liked it how Amelia is wondering at the start of the book whether to take on a lover or not. Once again, proof of her liberties she has as a widow. And yet…

When Ash returns from the Battle at Waterloo, old wounds are being reopened, and it is crystal clear that Amelia truly got heartbroken after not receiving any letter back from the young man she had a tender feeling for. Of course she isn’t welcoming Ash back with open arms, as she still holds a grudge of how he treated her.

And while I could understand Amelia, and I believe that I would act in the same way, I was curious to get to know Ash better, and just understand him better. Because it just cannot be that the main character, for who we would be rooting, would just dismiss Amelia like that.

I can only try to imagine what it is to fight in a war, and I understand completely that something like that can scar just anyone. And not only physically… So reading his reasons for cutting Amelia off, made me understand him so much better. He didn’t make the best choice, but he made choice that makes sense.

As being seen as a hero, it was a bit funny to read how suddenly Ash has become the catch of season. Even if marriage is the last thing on his mind…

It is only testament of his character, that Ash doesn’t take the ‘easy’ way out. While an advantageous marriage would for sure solve the financial issues, he wants to find his own way to fix things.

It was a bit funny to read how just not along Ash and Amelia get initially. They are both holding grudges, Amelia for Ash not writing back, and Ash for Amelia not waiting for his return… But seeing also how the both of them want to do the right thing, to correct mistakes of others, shows their kind and generous and just lovely characters.

And it is them wanting to do the right thing, that brings them back closer together, despite their initial idea of keeping distance. That for sure was great to read, but even better was reading how comfortable it gets between them. Yes, there is initial wariness, and they are both attempting to keep their smooth. But years being together, knowing each other like no other isn’t erased that easily, and reading how that easiness is returning, just amazing!

Of course there are several hurdles that are not that easy to take. They have a shared past, that has been scarred by hurt? There are also the present difficulties, and present ideologies, keeping these two apart. Yet doesn’t love always deserve a second chance? Especially as the separation isn’t one by choice.

I absolutely loved reading this story. It was bittersweet, heartwarming but also heartbreaking at moments. Ella Matthews captured my attention, and Ash and Amelia would not allow me to lose it in any way. I devoured this book, as I just wanted to know how, when and if these two wonderful characters would finally find their happy end like they truly deserved.

What we do for love, and what love lets us do

Synopsis

A truly heartbreaking but ultimately uplifting story about family, friendship, love and serendipity.

When Bee loses her job, home and boyfriend – all on the same day that a man accidentally spills coffee all over her; she decides life can’t get any worse. So when her mother finally tells Bee the name of the father she’s never met – a musician named Luke Friday – she decides to take a risk and go in search of him.

Meanwhile, Alex – who accidentally bumped into a pretty girl earlier that day, spilling his coffee all over her – returns home, where his mother is increasingly dependent on him. He wants to help her find some of her memories again. But the only person he thinks can help is a stranger to him. A man called Luke Friday, who his mother once played music with.

As Alex and Bee start their search for the same man, Luke’s nine-year-old daughter is also looking for something – anything – that might help her father with his grief. Little does she know her prayers might just be about to be answered… as a little thing called love starts to bring their lives together in ways none of them could possibly have imagined.

My review

After losing her mother, Mack, a 9 – years – old girl living in Majorca, writes to the Universe, with a wish for her father to find happiness again. Little does she that in the UK, after a terrible day, Bee discovers who her father is, after years of not knowing his identity. And as Bee has no job, no home or no boyfriend to take in account, she decides to head off to Majorca, to find out who this Luke Friday is. At the same time, Alex is looking after his mother, diagnosed with early dementia. While at times for sure it is a struggle, he wouldn’t want to do anything differently. Alex is certain that his mother will find some of her memories back through music, and slowly concocts a plan to bring her former band back together. And trying to not only find all the members, but also convince them all, takes him to Majorca, in the hope that he convince Luke Friday to get along with him and Kevin, who already agreed. Could truly one request from a little girl to the Universe bring all these people together and would the Universe truly give not only little Mack, but everyone, perhaps not what they want, but what they truly need?

After reading the blurb of this story, I was expecting a wonderful romance story, with even perhaps a possibility to a love triangle? Because let’s be honest, we don’t get a lot of clues from the blurb. But on the other hand, I should have known that this amazing author would write a story that goes beyond romance, yet with love firmly at the centre stage.

Once into the story, I didn’t know what I should be feeling. Of course I felt sorry for Luke, Mack, Bee and Alex, but despite everything each of them has been going through, it didn’t feel right to pity them. No matter each difficulty, everyone is trying to make the best out of their situation. Easier said than done of course, and there is a lot of room for trial and error.

Bee for sure isn’t having an easy time, not only does she lose her boyfriend, job and even home in almost the same day. But the fact that her own mother isn’t all that eager to have her back home truly angered me. I could understand perhaps that she didn’t want Bee to be back home permanently, but helping Bee out of a shorter period, what is the problem with that? I imagined that Bee must feel so rejected by everyone, just at loss, and alone. So of course it is logical to head off to Majorca, to meet a man she didn’t know existed.

And while in one way it seems a bit rushed and not so sensible at all, going to a strange country, to meet a complete stranger without having an actual plan, it also felt like it is what Bee needs at this stage in her life.

Enter Luke and Mack in her life. To say that they are in a happy place (figuratively speaking) would be a euphemism… as they are anything but happy. And can you blame them, with the loss they had to endure not so long ago? My heart truly broke for this pair, as they both are still clearly trying to cope with their loss.

Yet at the same time, I was so proud of Mack. Despite her young age, it felt like she has an old soul. For sure she is even more mature than any other girls of her age, and I believe that is has nothing to do with the tragedy that struck them, but it is just who Mack is…

We see a lot of ups and downs, with both Luke and Mack, but that is so understandable. Grief gives you some good day, but also bad days. And in a way, I was glad that Bee is there for the bad days too, even if she is out of her depth, and she doesn’t know what the right thing to do is. Yet it is clear that her just being there, is already more than enough.

But what warmed my heart the most, was reading how Mack and Bee connect. There is a world of differences between them, the huge age gap just one of them. But Mack’s easy acceptance of Bee and Bee’s words and actions of support are the medicine that the both of them need.

And then there is Alex… He is the perfect example of being a great son. His mother has been diagnosed with early dementia, which already is a difficult prognosis. Yet Alex is determined to look after his mother for as long is possible. There are several examples in this book showing that it isn’t easy looking after someone with dementia, as there are plenty of incidents taking place. And I truly admired Alex for not giving up, keeping up high hopes, never losing his patience.

Now, I know that it may seem that this is a very depressing story. But it truly isn’t. Yes, there are sadder bits in it, but that isn’t the general tone of the story.

Because there is Bee, that finds not only a father, but also a sister, while trying to figure out where her place in the world is. Yet with the wisdom of a lovely little girl, Bee starts to see things differently. And then there is Alex, that out of love for his mother wants to accomplish something impossible.

Perhaps in a farfetched way, we see how music enriches people’s lives. Because for Rachel/Roxy (Alex’s mother), it brings back a light in her eyes and memories, but it also brings the old band mates back together. And it brings Bee and Alex in each other’s lives, after a random first meeting at the start of the book.

This story for sure was a heart – warming, lovely, love story. Love in the not always romantical way, but love for our children, love for our parents, love for old friends, love for new friends, love for music, love just for everything.

Beside all the heartbreak there is in this book, and in life generally, we also see so many rays of lights, rays of love, rays of hope. I devoured this bittersweet, wonderful book and Debbie Howells once again touched my heart in a way that will not be easily forgotten…

Murder with an extra ‘shine’…

Synopsis

An iconic bridge… 🌉

Private investigator, Dan Armstrong, lives and works in Florence and knows the world famous Ponte Vecchio well. Usually a magnet for tourists, on this occasion it is the scene of an unexplained death, and Dan finds himself involved in the intriguing case.

An uncompromising man… 😠

Dan quickly discovers that the victim, an elderly jeweller, was every bit as hard as the diamonds he sold in his shop on the bridge. Few people liked him, not even his adult children, and his business dealings look murkier than the waters of the River Arno. Dan suspects more secrets lie hidden…perhaps inside the massive safe in the old man’s luxury villa…

A complex case. 💎🔍

As the evidence begins to mount up, so too do the suspects with their different motives. With a fortune in gold bullion and precious stones involved, Dan thinks the only way to catch the killer is to lay a trap, but might he be caught in the killer’s sights? Fortunately, he has Oscar, his canine wingman at his side, always eager to prove that he’s as good as gold. 🐶

Can Dan and Oscar sniff out the killer’s tracks or will this case be a bridge too far?

My review

Dan Armstrong truly left his former life behind and started fresh in Florence. In fact, life couldn’t get any better, as he truly loves his partner Anna, his most loyal and furry friend Oscar always by his side, and even if his new job as private investigator takes a lot of time, he manages to write rather successful books. But somehow, when there is a rather strange death that has taken place at the famous Ponte Vecchio, Dan gets involved again. And not just because the dead man has not committed suicide like it would appear on first sight, but has been murdered, but because that same man asked for Dan’s help. And now, not only Dan finds himself helping the police forces again to find out the truth, but he also discovers that the victim was known in the world of diamonds, and thus a lot of money is involved. Throughout his investigations, Dan is trying to unravel the truth, while at the same time more deaths are taking place and even his closest friends are carrying a burden that may be part of a for now unknown greater picture…

Here we are again, writing down our thoughts about the newest instalment of a series that we absolutely love. And I am talking in plural, because I believe that many readers are sharing my opinion 😊

I have read every book of this series, from the very start with Dan falling in love with Florence to and slowly finding a new place to call home. Because let there be no doubts about the, with each book, Dan is finding more at home in Florence, with a great dog in Oscar, many loyal friends and has even found love again in the process.

However, I am truly getting a bit worried about the people living or just visiting Florence, as once again, in this book, there are some body counts taking place! And not only that, but at one point, I even got worried about a beloved character in the series too!

I don’t know how Dan always finds himself involved in cases that are never straightforward. Why can a murder not be easy to solve? How come that Dan finds himself somehow working once again with the Italian forces to discover what happens? And how come that it is even very risky for Dan’s life to be investigating?

This time, Dan is being hired by the victim (or rather, victims), and that brings him in the world of jewellery, and diamonds to be more specific. I was even more intrigued as usual, as there is a minor link with Antwerp, a city not even 100 kilometres from my home.

Now, of course this is a cozy mystery, and beside the heavy, difficult investigation, there is aplenty of room for lightness, and even to show the strength of friendship. And obviously, there is always a special spotlight for Oscar, showing everyone that he is more than ‘just’ a dog! If there would be a time that Dan cannot have Oscar anymore, can I please adopt him? I promise I will love him more than I already do now! 😊

I have to say though, that Anna is for sure proving to be Dan’s perfect match. The patience and understanding of that woman! I don’t know if many women would put up with Dan’s profession and his spurs of the moments!

Of course it was a delight to return to Florence again, seeing my good old friends again, even if I knew that once again murder(s) would be taken place. And I have to admit, this book was perhaps more intricated, as there initially are several things taking place, without a common thread between them. But the more I was reading, the more the bigger picture became clear to me.

T A Williams made me truly feel like being physically back in Florence, he managed perfectly to make his readers understand the Italian way of life, but also making his readers think in one direction, only to make them realize later on that their (or rather, mine) thoughts were just wrong.

I absolutely enjoyed this latest instalment of the series, showing even more layers of Dan throughout his investigations. But we also saw once again the loyalty of Oscar. Could there possibly be a time where I do get bored and tired of this series? Honestly, I don’t think so! 😊