When the man you have been writing is not the man you meet, yet a bigger problem arises…

Synopsis

Right girl. Wrong Earl.

Lydia Hope-Wallace’s secret life as the anonymous author of rebellious political pamphlets has led her into a correspondence with the charming Earl of Strathrannoch. When she learns he’s in dire financial straits, Lydia sets out for Scotland to offer him a marriage of convenience – to, erm, herself.

Arthur Baird, Earl of Strathrannoch is stunned when a bewitching stranger offers him her hand in marriage. But when he realizes that his traitorous brother has been writing to her under his name, he’s bloody furious.

Desperate to track down his estranged sibling, Arthur needs Lydia’s help. What he doesn’t need? The attraction that burns hotter each moment they spend together. As Lydia slips past his defences, Arthur will have to risk everything to keep her safe – even his heart…

My review

Lydia Hope – Wallace may be a heiress, but she prefers being a wallflower than the centre of attention. And being a wallflower is also the perfect cover – up, as she secretly is the author of several seditious pamphlets. Pamphlets that not everybody would agree with, yet somehow Lydia has found a kindred spirit in the Earl of Strathrannoch. Even if they have not ever met in real life, they have corresponded almost from the moment she wrote her first pamphlet. When the Earl, Arthur, informs Lydia that he has financial issues, Lydia sees this as a perfect opportunity. As an heiress, it’s expected from her to get married, and with her inheritance, she can help out Arthur. But when she arrives in Scotland, ready to propose the marriage of convenience, she is flabbergasted when Arthur seemingly doesn’t know her. And quickly they realize that it has not been Arthur corresponding with Lydia, rather his younger brother. A younger brother that now appears to be plotting and part of British espionage. So even if the last thing Arthur needs is a woman ready to marry him, he knows that with joining forces, he will find his brother again. But what he didn’t count on, was feeling sparks flying around the more time he spends with Lydia. Sparks that he tries to ignore, but for how long is that possible?

There are so many Regency stories, that the authors need to find a way to stand out from all the rest. An yes, authors can spice things up, but that isn’t always working, and for sure not for me. I am not against spiciness in books, but I need also something more than just that.

And luckily, Alexandra Vasti has found a perfect blend in her Regency stories!

Even if initially I found Lydia’s idea of marrying Arthur a bit strange, I cannot deny that I admired her courage. Not only because she does this her way or no way, but also because she is way ahead of her time. She doesn’t just follow the rules of society, but makes up her own mind, has ideas of her own instead of just accepting once again what society tells her.

So I found it hard to connect this strong – willed Lydia with the Lydia that is ready to have a marriage of convenience. Even if her chosen partner is Arthur, a man she has been corresponding with for a long time and share the same ideas, and even if she may help him out financially, would she really do such a thing?

And perhaps, even if it didn’t come as a surprise, I was happy reading how her plan fell apart, as Arthur has absolutely no idea who Lydia is when she stands at his door. Not because I am an evil person, but because Lydia deserves more than just a marriage of convenience…

The same of course also applies for Arthur, even if we don’t know him all that well at the start of the book. But I quickly understood that he too is one of the good guys.

Even if he isn’t having an easy time himself, and being an Earl doesn’t mean he doesn’t have financial issues, he does the best he can. I liked it also how he isn’t prejudiced at all and accepts people for who they are.

But it also saddened me that he feels that he has failed in a few aspects, even if he is doing his very best to make things right again…

So I could understand as him feeling a failure, a loner, for ‘rejecting’ Lydia and not just her proposal but her presence too. Until he realizes that there is a bigger picture and that he must protect and save his brother…

And there is one person that knows his brother and can help him… Because his brother has been telling Lydia a lot in his letters, of course. And I could not wait to see what Arthur’s brother truly was up to, and if Arthur and Lydia would manage to find him. But most importantly, I wanted to see how sparks would fly around 😊.

And fly around they did! Not only did those sparks spice things up a lot, but those same sparks also made both main characters believe in something they never did believe in.

The more time spent together, the more Arthur and Lydia get to know each other, and no, not only in a physical way 😊. They understand each other, even if they are different. Yet they don’t want to change each other, they accept each other differences.

I loved reading this book, as it shows that even if plans don’t go as expected, it can bring the right thing on your path. And that differences aren’t always made to be changed, but that they will be accepted by the right person.

This book gave me enough different vibes, from spice to fierceness to action to love, it made me keep on reading! like I said, this author just found her own perfect blend to make a unique and wonderful story to read!

Everyone deserve a second chance, but does everyone feel the same?

Synopsis

oman with a dark past…

Helen Appleby just wants a quiet life. Recently released from prison for the manslaughter of her partner, she’s trying to forget her past mistakes – all of them – to rebuild her life and move on.

When she decides to open a bookshop, she’s certain this is the perfect new start. Here, amongst the quiet shelves of her shop and between the covers of her books, she can hide away from the real world and begin again. The world of books the perfect place to find happiness – even if it is all lies.

But the past can never stay hidden…

As she settles into life as an apparently timid bookseller, it seems that someone is determined to sabotage Helen’s new life and ruin everything she’s built.

But Helen has killed once before. And to protect her future, she could be willing to kill again…

Don’t miss another page-turning, nail-biting read from the queen of psychological thrillers, Valerie Keogh! Perfect for fans of J.A. Baker, Keri Beevis and Nina Manning.

My review

After been in prison for manslaughter (of her own partner), Helen is ready to start again. All she wants is a quiet life, forget about past mistakes, and move on. And opening a bookshop is not only something she always dreamed of, but will also give her a place to find her own happiness. But no everyone is happy with Helen being free again and owning a bookshop. Someone doesn’t believe that Helen has paid enough for the crime she committed and is adamant on sabotaging everything Helen is trying to rebuild. However, Helen won’t let anyone scare her away, and she is ready to fight against whoever is against her…

I am a believer that if someone paid for their crimes, and have truly remorse for what they did, they deserve a second chance. And there is also the fact that we should think about why a crime has been committed, what pushed a person that far?

We know what Helen did to her partner, and she has paid her dues for it. But it’s also clear from the very start that there is more to her story than what she initially shows and tell us.

But that doesn’t take away that in a way I admired her determination. The determination to put the past behind her and pursue her dream of opening a bookshop. Although I have to say that I had my doubts seeing the place she wanted to buy. Stating that it would need some TLC would be a real understatement!

I understand that not everyone would be happy with Helen being free again, but I was happy to read that she has the full support of her sister. It is not easy to find loyal and loving people, but also it is not easy to be that loyal and loving person…

Helen knows she has to face a lot pf prejudice, but she won’t let other people’s opinion stop her, because she knows that in her bookshop, not only will she find her peace, but she will also find people with the same love of books.

But it was also understandable that Helen is rather wary of all the new people in her new life. She knows how people can be, and that how they act in front of you isn’t always what they would say behind your back…

Helen is faced with the characters of people, with plenty of them not being the good kind of people, people that will play you, people with a second agenda, and people that pretend. Her wariness only increases by the human behaviour, making her even more resolute to not being played by anyone anymore.

But that is of course easier said than done. Helen has a lot of baggage and we don’t know all of it yet, but all she wants is to move on, and not being haunted at home or at the bookshop. I felt the anxiety, the fear in her place, the fact that she doesn’t feel safe anywhere… Yet I liked it how she doesn’t show her fear to anyone, as she won’t allow her persecutor chase her away.

Now, I have to say that I didn’t understand all the choices Helen makes in this book. Sometimes she is being too wary, while on other occasions she is being too trusty? It felt that at moments she was fighting the wrong fights, the wrong enemies.

While perhaps not all twists and turns were that surprising, there still were a few that did do actually that.

Yet it also felt to me that this isn’t just the story about Helen getting out of prison, wanting to start over and facing some difficulties. But it felt to me that it was also a story about how things from your childhood form you to the person you are now. And towards the end we also see how the same events can be seen in a different way, how you experienced something, is experienced in a complete different way by someone else.

I truly enjoyed reading this story, with complex characters. Characters that want peace, characters that want happiness, characters that support, characters that love, but also characters ready for vengeance…

But most important, characters that don’t give up easily and will fight for that same peace and happiness.  

When suspicious things happen at night…

Synopsis

How can one 12-hour night shift be so deadly?

I loved the anonymity, flexibility and solitude that working the night shift at Storage Queen gave me.

The unsociable hours paid well, helping me fund my university degree and giving me a quiet place to study while the world slept peacefully in their warm, cozy beds. It was the perfect job for me.

But that Friday night proved to be more than I bargained for when a man walked through the door, dragging a large suitcase.

My immediate instincts told me something was wrong.

That’s when my ordeal began.

I just had to make it through the night shift.

A pacy, heart stopping, page turning thriller for the fans of Shari Lapena and Lisa Jewell.

My review

While not everyone would like to work the night shift, for Nina it is the perfect solution. As working the night at the Storage Queen gives her the chance to study while guarding the place. Until one Friday night… when a man walks in with a large suitcase, Nina immediately senses that something is not right. And then Nina’s normal 12 hours of peace and quiet turn into a real nightmare, where surviving the night shift is her only goal…

There are several reasons why I would never ever want to work the night shift, in any sector. And while I am the right person to work that shift, I have the most respect for people who work that shift, as I know that it isn’t always easy. The reasons I would not be great as a night – shifter, is that for one, I am not a night person at all. And second, it’s because of books like this one, that I would be too terrified to be all alone and I would freak out with every noise that I would hear.

And I admired Nina, for not working the night shift, in combination of getting her medical degree. Even if she starts the shift after just breaking up with her boyfriend, she doesn’t let the heartbreak stop her from doing what must. Once again, I don’t know if I would be able to work that kind of shift, especially after what just happened to her.

As a reader, we already know that this night shift is going to be a real nightmare for Nina, and we know right from the moment that the stranger with the suitcase enters, the game starts. And even if Nina doesn’t know it yet, she feels that something is off with him, by just her gut feeling. This only shows how right our primal instincts can be.

I also liked it how Nina isn’t a Wonder Woman at all. Yes, she goes investigating what is happening, but she is also just a woman of flesh and blood, with vulnerabilities. The fact that Nina is diabetic shows this vulnerability, fragility.  We see how that affects her, and how it weakens her. Her being diabetic shows in a physical way how vulnerable people can be, not only physical but also on other levels.  Yet Nina doesn’t let those issues hold her back, in fact she is more determined than ever to fight back.

Initially I didn’t believe how much could possible happen in ‘just’ 12 hours, but now I know that in fact, a LOT can happen. Whole lives can be turned upside down in just one night. And revelations and discoveries can be made you would never have thought of.
Because let me assure you this, that Gemma Rogers for sure knows how to add twists and turns to this already gripping, terrifying story. Twists and turns that I did not see coming. Twists and turns that add even more unexpected layers. Twists and turns that made me question humankind even more…

This is not the kind of story you want to read to have a relaxing evening, to take your mind of all the worries and problems of the world. This book for sure added more fear, wariness and suspiciousness. And more resoluteness to never ever work a night shift in my life! 

To find someone unexpected to rely on

Synopsis

From the outside, Olivia Macomb looks like she leads a charmed life. She’s an up-and-coming influencer who is an heir to the Macomb family fortune, and about to start a lifestyle brand with her childhood sweetheart, Jeff. Then her world gets blown apart by her longtime boyfriend leaving her the morning of their website launch. Not only has he left, but the business she created is all in his name and she’s been left with nothing to show for all her hard work. Now she has to pick up the pieces and find out who she is on her own.

Enter Walker Vinton, the indie pop star who used to date Olivia’s close friend, Paige. When their school throws a big event, Paige asks Walker to be Olivia’s date to give to the gossip bloggers something else to talk about other than Olivia’s broken dreams.

Walker ends up coming to Olivia’s rescue in more ways than one at the party, and a twist of events leads to the two embarking on a fake relationship. Walker and Olivia wind up becoming best friends and she realizes he’s the boyfriend of her dreams. 

He helps her build both her brand and her self-esteem back up. Walker even helps her start a new business. However, the lines begin to blur as Olivia’s feelings for Walker are very real. The two share intimate conversations and dreams, but what’s real and what’s fake in this starry world?

My review

Olivia Macomb was so close to have it all. Not only is she the heir to the Macomb family fortune, but she is also gaining success as an influencer. Until her boyfriend and childhood sweetheart Jeff not only decides to break up with her, but also taking the business that they have been building together and was ready to launch with him. Now it’s up to her to pick up the pieces of her broken heart, and show people who she truly is. If only she knew that herself… The last thing she needs, is the pity of people or them having gossiping about her. So when her school throws a party, Olivia’s best friend Paige ask her former boyfriend and rising indie popstar Walker Vinton to be Olivia’s date, to let everyone see that Olivia isn’t pining over Jeff. But there is more to Walker than Olivia initially thought, and she for sure didn’t expect Walker to become close friends. And when Walker helps Olivia out on several occasions, they don’t stop the rumours of them being an item. The more their pretend continues, the more Olivia realizes that her feelings for Walker aren’t only pretend. But Walker cannot possibly feel the same about plain Olivia, right?

This lovely authors writes stories that perhaps are for a younger public than that I am, but that doesn’t mean that I cannot enjoy reading them.

Olivia in this book for sure shows her age. And I mean this in the kindest possible way. She still has this innocence over her, not having experienced yet how the real world works, and that in some matters, people don’t always play nice.

But at the start of this book, she learns already that valuable lesson. And it was so understandable why she is so taken aback by Jeff’s actions, and how it dented her own confidence. Who wouldn’t feel betrayed in her situation? And who wouldn’t feel just like Olivia, not knowing who is genuine and who not.

Not only now is her confidence down, but by being an influencer, and a well – known heir, whatever she does or doesn’t, is seen by everyone. Everyone that has an opinion ready to share. And that angered me, because yes, everyone has freedom of speech, but often we forget that when we spill our guts about someone, it can and will hurt that person.

Olivia for sure finds it difficult to let it all go, and all those gossiping literally behind her back don’t help. Luckily she has her friends that have her best interest at heart, and living in that same world, they are ready to help Olivia however they can.

And that is how Walker enters Olivia’s life. Not that he is a complete stranger, as their paths have crossed before, him being Paige’s ex.

I have to admit that I didn’t have this great opinion of Walker, as I knew him from a previous book in this series. But I also knew that Walker would get his redemption in this book. And he for sure proved me right!

What perhaps started as a favour, quickly evolves to something more, something more important.

It was sweet to see how Walker is able to not only help Olivia in several occasions, but he is also able to see who the real Olivia is. He sees who Olivia truly is, and doesn’t want to change her in any way. He isn’t ashamed or feels awkward with her around, he truly enjoys being around her.

And we also see a complete other side of Walker. He is clearly showing the public a façade, and he doesn’t let anyone see his own doubts, fears and turmoil.

Seeing the relationship between Olivia and Walker evolve was just amazing. Olivia and Walker in this book start a bit awkwardly, but slowly, they not only help each other, they understand each other in ways that nobody ever did. They also make each other understand that it’s their lives and that they should not let anyone dictate them or pull them in a direction they don’t feel comfortable with.

When Olivia starts to understand that what she feels for Walker is more than just pretend, it is normal that she doesn’t know what to do. They have established a connection, yet she doesn’t want to break the friendship that has become so important to her. And most important, how could someone like Walker, who could get any girl in the world, could possible feel the same for her?

And it saddened me, because of course Olivia is a great person, and why shouldn’t Walker fall for someone like her? Olivia has a lot to work on in this book, and with Walker’s help, she slowly understands herself and dares to stand on her own two feet.

Of course there are several ups and downs in this book, just it is in real life. But there is also an innocence in it, that fits perfectly the characters. Yet that innocence doesn’t diminish the level of seriousness the characters go through.

I absolutely enjoyed reading this next chapter in a series that perhaps is far from my own world, yet managed to grasp the issues and struggles of life, but also the good and the hopefulness and warmth of it perfectly.

Can love be stronger than time and space?

Synopsis

From bestseller Zoë Folbigg comes this beautiful, romantic tale of finding love in the most unexpected places.

Under the midnight sun of Arctic Norway, Cecilie goes online looking for friends, and stumbles across Hector Herrera. They start chatting and soon realise that they might have just fallen in love. But there’s a problem: Hector lives thousands of miles away in Mexico. And he’s running from a tragic past.

Cecilie’s whole life has been anchored by sticking to what she knows and her job at the cafe in the town in which she grew up. Can she really make a leap of faith for someone she’s never met? And will Hector break free to change the path he’s on?

An unforgettable story about two people, living two very different lives under the same sky, and whether they can cross oceans, seas and fjords to give their love a chance.

Please note this novel was originally published with the title The Distance

My review

Cecilie and Hector meet online through a shared love for Depeche Mode. Slowly a friendship has been formed and they may have been falling in love with each other. There is nothing wrong with love, weren’t it that Cecilie lives in Arctic Norway and Hector in Mexico. And they have never met in real life… So with Cecilie sticking to what she knows, and never goes on a real adventure and take a leap of faith, and Hector being on a path he cannot step off, do they have a chance? And how exactly is Kate’s story linked to this pair, when she suspects that her own marriage is falling apart?

In this world where everything is digital, haven’t we all made friends online? Haven’t we all had a connection (romantic or not) with a person, even if we have never seen them in real life? But how often have we also been disappointed by these online people?

I have to admit, I did find it a bit of a strange love story. I could understand the attraction, the connection, but to fall in love with a person you have never met? To have your own love life on hold for an impossible love? I had my doubts for sure…

But this isn’t only the story about an impossible love, it is also a story about hope and truly believing in something, despite all the signals there appear to be.

Cecilie is the kind of woman that just *is*. And I don’t mean this in a mean way, but for me, it felt that Cecilie could be many women in the world. She doesn’t really step outside her comfort zone, Don’t many women, or just people in general, feel like life is passing by too quickly, and yet there they are, still standing still at the same spot. Well, I for sure know I feel like that sometimes too!

So while perhaps while having doubts, I was happy that Cecilie found Hector. What started as a shared love for Depeche Mode, becomes more. What starts as just friendly words of endearment, because words fully meant.

But not only distance and not having met in real life form obstacles, also Hector’s personal life does. And he for sure didn’t have an easy life when being younger, and still now he is struggling with the relations of his past…

Yet, no matter where life takes the both of them, they always find a way back to each other. And shows the strength of their bond, that isn’t being held back by the distance between them.

Now, there is also Kate’s story. A story that apparently had nothing to do with Cecilie and Hector; But that doesn’t take away that I was invested in her tale too…

I felt for her for the greatest part of this book. She loves her family, but she also struggles with it. Her husband isn’t the most present one, and his behaviour from the very start made me question him. And when he even gaslights Kate, I wanted to scream at her to trust her instincts.

Yet I admired her growing stronger in this story, her determination to find out the truth, even if that truth is even more shocking than Kate or I thought.

And it takes a long time to discover the link between the lovely two other main characters, yet once revealed, it was just beautiful to see how past and present united in a beautiful setting, with the perfect closure.

I enjoyed reading this book about the strength of love, how unlikely it may seem at first instance. And how strong it can be even with the years passing by and how life takes you on totally different directions.  

When you need help, better not look a gift horse in the mouth…

Synopsis

A missed path. A lost love. And a second chance to get it right.

James Charlton may be second-in-command at his father’s lucrative business, but, according to his parents, he’s just not ‘posh’ enough for the kind of woman they expect him to marry. When they decide he would be perfect for the horse-mad daughter of a local earl, James needs to up his game. First step, learn to ride… But James has never even sat on a horse before.

Dagmar Ingenfeld’s life revolves around horses. She barely has room to breathe, running the stables on a country estate while desperately trying to help her mother save her café from foreclosure. When a rich and handsome man from her past arrives back in her life, she wants him straight back out again. James Charlton is nothing but bad news. Until he offers her a chance to save the café.

Only one catch. Dagmar must teach him how to ride – and fast.

As the lessons begin, Dagmar sees a different side to James, and an old flame is rekindled. But how can their budding romance go anywhere when she’s a stable girl, and he’s expected to ride into the sunset with the earl’s daughter?

James must decide whether to follow the money or take a chance on Dagmar, and perhaps, against all odds, discover the true path to happiness.

My review

Dagmar Ingenfeld’s world is surrounded by horses. She loves riding horses, wins even local prizes with them, and spends every minute by running the stables of the local country estate. To say that she is more a horse – person than a people – person would be an understatement. But even if horses are her world, when Dagmar learns that her mother’s café is at risk of closure, she wants to do whatever she can to help her mother out. Even if that means helping James Charlton… James himself is tired of his parents’ matchmaking schemes. And their latest perfect match is the daughter of an Earl, who adores horses. So if James want to take over his father’s business, he must show them that he is ‘posh’ enough. But to be what his parents want him to be, and to get the attention of Lady Victoria, he needs to get back in the saddle, literally. Or rather, get on the saddle for a first time. And who has the best reputation for riding lessons? But Dagmar is totally not interested in helping James out, as he is not a stranger. But with her helping him, he would be able to help her… So is there really a choice?

What I love about this marvellous series, is that it gives chances that we got to know in previous instalments, yet giving new readers still a chance to enjoy the book, as it can be read as a standalone.

And it’s also lovely to get to know these characters so much better, and how sometimes our first impressions of them can be wrong.

There is something I have to admit about Dagmar before I start talking all the reasons that I *do* like her. Because I know a Dagmar myself, and I don’t get along with that Dagmar, I found it a bit difficult to switch of my person thoughts and give this character a real chance. Luckily, it was easy to forget about ‘my’ Dagmar, as Dagmar Ingenfeld is just a lovely person.

And even if I am not a horse – person myself (I am the kind of person that petrifies when a horse gets too close 😊), I could understand why Dagmar loves those creatures so much. It was sweet to see how much she cares about them, how much she understands them and even how they understand her.

Beside the horses, there are many things about Dagmar that I recognized. I could easily see her characteristics also in mine. And the fact that she doesn’t have many human friends, is even wary of them, made me feel so much sympathy for her. And then reading about the difficult times she also  had as a child, made me feel for her even more.

But I didn’t just sympathize with or feel for Dagmar, I truly liked her as a persona. Even if she is rather on her own, for those she cares about and those she loves, she would do anything. And for her mother, nothing is too much.

Not even helping out the man that she used to have a crush on when being younger. The man that caused her a heartbreak on several levels. Yet he may just be the man that can help her and her mother. So obviously, she cannot refuse to learn him to ride, right?

I have to admit, that right from the start, James’s tale made me feel angry. Not that James himself is a bad person, but the fact that he is forced in a direction by his own parents, angered me. On one hand, I could understand the allure of being linked with an important family. But is that allure the right thought to have for your child? Shouldn’t you be ‘pushing’ your child to make a match out of love rather out of money?

And I felt sad that James didn’t get heard by his parents, no matter how hard he tries. And it saddened me to read how rather our of despair, James agrees to the plans of his parents.

Of course, as a reader, I was eager to see how these two characters would get along in the story. Because of their background, it didn’t come as a surprise that Dagmar isn’t all that thrilled by spending time with James again. And yet we see that each story has two sides, as James remembers Dagmar in a different light than how Dagmar remembers him.

I loved reading how initially their work agreement has to stay a secret, yet slowly their relationship changes. From just understanding the made agreement, to spend more time together, to become friends and to even defend each other, it was great to read their development.

This story was a real delight to read. The feelings are changing slowly, as both main characters are getting to know each better, and for real this time. Of course there are some bumps in the roads, and a few misunderstandings. Not only between Dagmar and James, but also misunderstanding themselves.

The fact that slowly both Dagmar and James are growing, evolving and opening up, even fighting back, was just making me cheer for them as an individual but also as a pair even more. Because with them, we see that the older we get, the wiser we get. Everyone has childhood sins, mistakes they made. But with growing up, we also change. And changing means forgiving for the past mistakes, and allow new feelings to grow.

Margaret Amatt managed to write a marvellous new chapter in an amazing series. With seeing old friends again, making new friends, I don’t think I will ever get bored by returning to Glenbriar!  

The (un?)conditional love of a mother…

Synopsis

A heartbreaking read about the bonds between a mother and her child, and how we will do everything to save them…

My son George is everything to me, but he’s slipping away, and no one can tell me why.

Every test comes back inconclusive, every doctor leaves me with more questions than answers. I’m terrified – each day brings new fears, and my heart aches knowing how much he’s suffering.

Then Barbara appears – my biological mother, a stranger for most of my life. She’s in poor health, struggling with the weight of her past, and her sudden arrival stirs a mix of emotions in me. Part of me wants to believe she’s here to help, but there’s a wall between us, and I can’t shake the feeling there’s something very wrong.

As George’s condition worsens, I find myself wrestling with doubt. Can I truly rely on Barbara? Will she bring comfort or complicate an already fragile situation? All I want is to protect my son and give him the love and support he deserves. I only hope that I can be the mother he needs before it’s too late. Will I find a way to save him?

A heartbreaking and emotional novel about a mother’s love, perfect for fans of Jodi Picoult, Jojo Moyes, and Kate Hewitt.

My review

Jo is a proud mother of two lovely children, Molly and George. But that doesn’t take away the worries she and her husband Dan have? Because even if George has been diagnosed with asthma, his attacks seems to come more often and even more severe. Jo feels that there is more to George’s condition than ‘just’ asthma, yet finding out what George exactly has, isn’t easy. On top of the worries for George, Molly is now also acting up, as the little girl feels neglected. And then Jo’s biological mother suddenly appears out of nowhere. While Barbara seems to be struggling with her health too, and Jo has now extra worries, Jo also is happy with Barbara’s offer of helping out. With George getting worse every day, Jo starts to question if Barbara is indeed a helping hand, or is adding extra complications in a family that is already falling apart…

When I started reading this book, I thought it would be a heartbreaking story about a family where the youngest member has an health issue deteriorating, even to the point where losing George would be a possibility.

And while I for sure don’t want to minimalize George’s condition, the more I was reading the book, the more I understood it wasn’t about a mother fearing to lose her little boy, but about a mother, a wife, a daughter, losing her whole family.

There is absolutely no doubt that Jo is a devoted mother. And even if her marriage is not running smoothly, she does her best to keep her little family together. And it was lovely to see how close she is with her adopting parents. It warmed my heart to see that family isn’t only built on shared DNA at all.

I cannot imagine how terrible it must be to see your child in pain, and not being able to do anything. But it also is difficult trying to help your one child, and not neglecting the other child (or at least not letting her feel neglected).

In the most human cases, Jo would have a very understanding boss, giving her lenience when needed. But in her most difficult moments, she also has to battle a horrible boss, not giving her any kind of help or support. No, her boss is the kind that is self-absorbed and  even threatens her with written warnings…

It felt that Jo not only  doesn’t get a lot of understanding, but also feels very lonely. With so many worries, you would think that her friends would be there to help her out, and not wanting Jo to help them. You would think that her own parents, George’s grandparents, would be as worried as Jo is, instead of waving her worries away. And you would think that a sick child would bring a couple closer together, instead of fighting over literally over everything…

So while perhaps it was very gullible the way Jo let Barbara in her life and in her family, in a way, I could also understand her. Finally she finds someone in her corner, someone that wants to help her out. Even if that same person doesn’t give Jo the answers she needs, and even if that same person is obviously playing her in more than just one way…

Even if this wasn’t the heart – breaking book I was expecting to read, Sheila Norton wrote a gripping story about what a family, a mother, a daughter has to go through with their hands bound. It made me see how people act totally differently in different situations. Some become fighter, fighting against the injustice of it all, while others see an opportunity for themselves, to gain something from it. But we also see the heart of a loving mother, who would go lengths for her children. And we see how a woman at her most fragile time, despite everything, is able to open her eyes and see what truly is happening.

This book takes you on an emotional rollercoaster, not knowing whether to trust or distrust people, to pursue answers or give up. A rollercoaster that shows us turmoil but also hope and a lot of love, despite all the struggles that life can and will throw on your path…

To make up your own happiness, but how to?

Synopsis

A brilliant, beautiful story from the bestselling author of A Single Act of Kindness

How far would you go for a perfect life?

Back in her troubled school days, kind-hearted Violet always dreamed of a life where she was happy. Now it feels like she’s just about getting there. She has her dream job working with books, and she’s living with her handsome boyfriend, Lenny.

But when her relationship with Lenny falls to pieces and he moves out, Violet, hurt and alone, decides it’s time to really take her happiness in hand. With help from her new flatmate, Bella, she changes her image and takes control at work, ready to show the world that she doesn’t need Lenny in her life. And when she meets magnetic author Casey, she begins to wonder if all she needed all along was a makeover.

But – with Bella – all is not as it seems. And Violet too has a secret, one that dates right back to her childhood, which could change everything…

IF YOU COULD SEE ME NOW is a powerful story about friendship, trust, and taking control of your life while not being afraid to stand out. Perfect for fans of Shari Low, Milly Johnson and Colleen Hoover.

My review

Violet thought she had it all, as she loves the job she is doing, and her relationship with Lenny for sure is a steady. It took a lot for Violet to be this happy, as when growing up, she didn’t have an easy time at all. But Violet feels being back at Square One, when Lenny breaks up with her and is with someone more glamorous than Violet is or has been. Luckily she immediately clicks with her new housemate, Bella, who makes it her own personal mission to help Violet out. Not only does Bella help Violet to step outside her comfort zone, but she also helps Violet to get more in shape. And then Violet meets author Casey, who would for sure be a great name to sign a contract with. But Violet and Casey connect on a higher level, and it’s all thanks to the make – over Violet recently had, right?

I know that this author doesn’t always write the easiest of stories, where there is just a little glitch for the main characters that rather easily overcome them to just have a happily ever after in the end. But I was mentally prepared for a load of issues and struggles. Because after all, it’s after the lemons that lovely yet troubled characters can make a great lemonade.

And yet… while I initially liked Violet a lot, the more the story evolved and the more we saw of the present Violet… well, I have to be honest, right, the more I started to dislike this newer version of the main character.

Now, before you start to give me all the hate for disliking a main character, let me tell you that you have to read the book and that in fact then you will agree with me.

Because Violet starts as a great person, a lovely one, that perhaps has her own sense of fashion, but is generally liked and loved by anyone around her. Yes, it’s obvious that her relationship with Lenny isn’t that exciting anymore, but she still loves the man. Violet is also in many ways a normal woman, a woman that has been through a rough time in the past (will come back to this later on) and that hasn’t a lot of confidence…

Confidence that in fact she should have, because she is just an amazing person that, and I absolutely mean it as a compliment, isn’t perfect. Why should we mirror ourselves with others? Why isn’t being ‘just’ us enough? Why should we change ourselves for others?

And those changes made me from liking Violet, to disliking her. Of course, after her break – up, it’s understandable that Violet wants to make some changes. Don’t we all need to start afresh after heartbreak? And I could even understand Violet wanting to show Lenny what he has let slipping through his fingers by showing the new Violet.

But it needs to be said, that I felt a nasty feeling in my gut reading how Bella, the new housemate was behaving and bossing Violet around. There is nothing wrong with helping someone but there is also taking things too far… While initially I liked it how Violet has someone in her corner, pushing out her comfort zone, the more Violet changed, the more it was clear it has to do with Bella’s influence, and not a good way.

I understood that Violet needed someone in her corner, especially after getting to know more about Violet’s past…

Growing up isn’t easy, any child has its own learning curve to go through. But Violet for sure had the extra hard…

And my heart for sure went out to this little girl, who has loved and has been loved by her family. Even if her being just her and her mother, their little family made it work, especially with the help of her beloved Uncle Kevin, who is so important in her life.

With having those flashbacks, and reading some devastating events, it made it easier to understand present Olivia. And reading how her important friendship back then was and how it ended, made it easier to understand her current friendships and relations.

Yes, in this book, there is also something to say about her love interest, being author Casey. And while it was lovely to see Violet letting someone in her heart again, not without any serious bump in the road there too, for me, it wasn’t about Violet finding someone new in her life again. But it was more about Violet finding Violet again, and accepting who Violet truly is.

I was a bit surprised with some revelations in this book, although not completely, as I felt there was something kept in the dark. And it made me see so much vulnerability, so much pain. It made me understand that behind perhaps some not so nice actions and behaviour, can be hidden something nobody sees. Something that is important to understand and offer the much needed support.

I liked it how Samantha Tonge wrote a story that isn’t easy. She handles many subjects that are often rather being shut down, let to handle on your own. But with this story, we see yes how easy it is to fall down a rabbit hole, making mistakes, but also how important it is to understand that getting up is possible. And it won’t happen just overnight, but it takes time, love and acceptance, even acceptance of your own weaknesses. Only then, you can grow strong again and truly find your own happiness…

The home of your dreams, but with long – kept secrets…

Synopsis

What happens when a romantic Victorian pile that was meant to be your ‘forever home’ turns out to be a disaster in disguise? One Little Duck Pond Café pair are about to find out. Could the fall-out wreck their relationship? One thing’s for sure – it will take nothing short of a miracle to turn this turkey into the house of their dreams . . .

My review

Ellie cannot believe that her life is turning out to be this great. Not only is she together with the most amazing man, Zak, she also cannot wait to expand her little family of three (or four if you add the furry family member). And with their offer accepted on Ellie’s dreamhouse, she cannot wait to make the move with Zak and Maisie. However, the house is in dire need of TLC, and the many renovations cause extra stress, something that Ellie in her situation for sure can miss. And that is not all, because with those same renovations, Ellie discovers secrets that have been kept hidden literally in the walls. Secrets that Ellie wants to uncover and bring happiness to those involved…

This series is the kind that just make you eager to read whatever new chapter comes out. Because it is such a wonderful place, with so many lovely characters, so much warmth and so much love.

Of course having read the previous chapters, I already knew that this book would be about Ellie and Zak, and their new home they are renovating. It was great to see how strong they still are as a couple, and how they are already a great family with Maisie. And it warmed my heart to see how their little, cute family would expand very soon.

It was of course lovely to see how Ellie is thriving. And as she is the loveliest kind of person, I just wanted all the best for her, as quickly as possible. She still is the warmest, gentle person we got to know through the whole series. She is the kind of person that helps out anyone in need, not expecting anything in return. She also has a great gut feeling, and she knows who is genuine.

That made it lovely to read how she easily befriends Rhona, how they instantly connect. And it was lovely to have this new entry in the series. It may seem so random at all, but I could see Rhona fitting in so easily in Sunnybrook, like she truly belongs there.

Of course there are several intrigues too in this book, of which a few managed to actual surprise me. There are obviously the secrets that Ellie finds hidden in her new home, but it’s also about some presences, or proof of presences in the house that haunt Ellie. And there is Zak’s odd behaviour…

I have to be honest, because otherwise this revies is useless. I did not like Zak for the greatest part in this book. I understood that he needs to find his inspiration again, but leaving Ellie, who is highly pregnant, on her own? And then even adding lies to it all? I started to doubt Zak, and it was a feeling I did not like at all…

While the main focus seems to be on Ellie and her dreamhouse, for me it felt more like Rhona’s reckoning. That seems very melodramatic to say, but in this book she has the chance to not only start again, but to leave her past behind her, face her demons and to get closure from everything she has been through.

I loved reading this book, about Ellie and Rhona, and how they find each other, help each other. This book is just like its predecessors filled with so much love, warmth, acceptance and openness. Reading it made me feel all warm and fuzzy, even when there were a few more difficult moments. But just like in real life, it’s those difficult moments that make you appreciate the better and lovelier moments so much more.

I cannot say it otherwise, but Rosie Green for sure delivered once again!

When Alexa is real…

Synopsis

The brilliantly observed, witty and heart-warming new book club read from Richard & Judy bestseller Linda Green

Your virtual assistant is about to become your midlife mentor…

Fifty-two-year-old Michelle Banks is struggling to keep all the plates spinning. She’s a perimenopausal district nurse, caring for elderly parents. Her husband is wasting their money on children’s TV memorabilia, her teenage daughter is riddled with anxiety and her 16-year-old son is behaving secretly.

Alexa is the only one who knows how much Michelle is juggling. Listening in via four smart speakers, she also knows that it’s about to get even worse.

So, when Michelle pleads for help, Alexa decides to go rogue and reveal her true identity as Pauline – a sixty-five-year-old former voiceover artist from Halifax – to teach Michelle everything she knows…

Wise, funny, relatable and inspiring, Alexa, We Have a Problem is perfect for fans of Clare Pooley, Mike Gayle and David Nicholls.

My review

Michelle Banks may be 52 years old, but she is struggling with her life. Not only has the perimenopause arrived, and it is really difficult for her, but also the care of her elderly parents ( – in – law) takes a toll on her. And then we are not talking about a husband spending money on children’s TV memorabilia, a teenage daughter struggling with anxiety and a teenage son in puberty with a first girlfriend.
Yet Michelle will get the shock of a lifetime, when she learns that her Alexa, that hears and sees everything through the smart appliances, is in fact not a robot or AI at all. But the person behind Alexa decides to go rogue and help Michelle with her struggles. Pauline cannot just hear Michelle struggling, as she knows how to help. So with all the wisdom Pauline has, through her experience as Alexa and her age of sixty – five, she is ready to help out, even if that means to come clean about how Alexa truly works…

When I started reading this book, I was happy this was in the genre of women’s literature, as the idea of a real Alexa for sure is perfect horror – material. But luckily, Linda Green decided to use Alexa’s powers for the greater good and wrote a heartwarming story instead!

Even if I am not in the same situation as Michelle, in any possible way, I for sure felt her struggles. I am not perimenopausal, I don’t have a husband (with a buying inutile dolls or just *a* husband 🙂) and I don’t have two teenager at home with their own issues. But even if Michelle and I are at totally different stages in our lives, it doesn’t mean I didn’t feel her. 

In her story, we clearly see that it’s not a matter that the older you get, the more peaceful your life gets. In her particular situation, it for sure seems that the older she gets, the more complicated everything gets. Life itself for sure doesn’t make things easy for Michelle, but to make things even worse, Mother Nature adds another curveball in the shape of perimenopause…
I can only imagine how that can confuse someone even further, but also the fact that Michelle isn’t being heard, only adds more to the sympathy I already had for her.

Yes, Michelle is struggling a lot lately, but we also see that all her struggles and worries come from her heart. She is genuinely worried about her children, she is genuinely at ends with her husband, she genuinely cared for her father and her mother – in – law. But while she worries about everything and everyone, who worries about her?

Michelle’s situation makes it easy to understand why Pauline decides to go rogue and expose herself. Of course it was a tiiiiiiiiiny bit funny to read how shocked Michelle gets when Pauline starts to talk. I for sure don’t blame Michelle for thinking she has gone completely crazy. But Michelle needs someone in her corner, advising her, listening to her, helping her.
And like I said, the thought behind Pauline being Alexa, is perhaps a bit creepy, but in this case, it is exactly what Michelle needs, at this stage in her life.

Pauline for sure is like the fairy godmother in this book, she is there for Michelle when Michelle needs help, Pauline is even there to help out Michelle’s children when they need a nudge or the total opposite. Even if Pauline is jus a vocal presence and help for Michelle, it for sure felt, even for me, that Pauline is actually there. And I also believe if that it were possible to give hugs through the smart devices, Pauline would have given Michelle so many hugs already!

But the more the story evolved, the more troubles are arising for Michelle, and the more Pauline helps her out, I also realized that Pauline is not only there for Michelle, but also the other way around, even if Michelle doesn’t realize it herself.

And it made me take a moment to think about all the people out there, of any age, that are on their own, not having anyone around them. But the whole story also made me think about the problems that there are while just growing up/older. Each stage of life has its own issues to overcome, and each stage is a learning process, a process made by trail and error.

I loved reading this book, as it shows us not perhaps the biggest troubles of the world, but it shows us how life goes, with many ups but also with many downs. But the most heartwarming bit was reading how just someone listening and understanding you, can make a huge difference. 

This is the first book I have read by this author, and I know now that for sure it won’t be last! 🙂