When past and present meet in a place…

Synopsis

‘Incredibly atmospheric, haunting and poignant.’ Nicola Cornick

1648 – Hertfordshire

Thirteen-year-old Katherine Ferrers is in despair at being betrothed to arch-Royalist Thomas Fanshawe whose family are hellbent on plundering her family’s fortune to champion the exiled Charles. As her unhappy marriage stretches before her, her only comfort is her beloved childhood home The Cell. But as the years pass and Kate grows restless, a new passion, a new love and a dangerous calling threaten to upend everything she’s ever known.

Present Day – Hertfordshire

Charlie Wolfe jumps at the chance to help his uncle renovate a tumbledown cottage overlooking Nomansland Common. Number One Constable’s Cottages was once the home of the man charged with ridding the common of the highwaymen who terrorised travellers. But it’s the story of The Wicked Lady, the notorious female highway robber, that captures Charlie’s imagination, and some long winters’ nights he’s sure he can the hoofbeats of her horse echoing across time.

What drove this mystery woman to risk everything for a life of crime, and why is she still restless, wandering the common in grief? It seems only Charlie can finally uncover the secret Katherine Ferrers has kept for hundreds of years; a secret of a terrible betrayal and a tragic love that was never meant to end this way…

USA Today bestselling author Judy Leigh writing as Elena Collins, brings you this spellbinding and heartbreaking timeslip novel, uncovering the intriguing story of another brave woman that history forgot. Perfect for fans of Barbara Erskine, Nicola Cornick, Diana Gabaldon and Louise Douglas.

My review

When Charlie Wolfe decides to help out his uncle to renovate a cottage after a break – up, he didn’t expect that Constable’s Cottage Number One would come with a mystery. Because at night, he is sure that he can hear hoofbeats in the woods of Nomansland Common.
But Charlie is quickly intrigued by the story of The Wicked Lady, or rather Katherine Ferrers. In the 17th century she was married off as a thirteen – years – old girl to arch – royalist Thomas Fanshawe, but there is absolutely no love between them. And when the years pass by, her only comfort is loving in her childhood home The Cell.
But what made this young woman turn from a notable lady to a criminal woman?
The more Charlie learns about Katherine, the more he wants to figure out what happened to the woman and what drove her into criminality. And while he unravel a story of betrayal and impossible love, he himself figures out what direction he wants his life to go.

With a story with dual timeline, and ghosts, you know that the past – story will not end well… Yet somehow, the optimist in me kept hoping that somehow, somewhere Katherine would get her happy end, especially as she for sure deserves it.

Her story already doesn’t start that well, as her stepfather marries her off, at the extreme age of thirteen…
And it would be some kind of comfort reading if there would be at least some kind of affection. I am not even talking about love, but just an inch of care. But even that is not the case, because all that matters to her ‘loving’ husband, is her dowry…
It truly saddened me to see how Thomas just threw away all her money, selling off her possessions like it was nothing.
So perhaps is was fortunate to see that Thomas is in fact more fighting for his own cause, leaving Katherine alone at home.Her

But despite her circumstances, I found her a real great character. Because we see that she understands what matters, she is a compassionate person, and cares about people, even people who have it more difficult than herself.
And such a person deserves to find love, the right kind of love. So while even if I don’t agree on a moral ground what she does later on in the book, I cannot condemn her. Now that I think about it, she even does several things I don’t really agree with 😊.

I could also completely understand why Charlie in the present is so intrigued by this mysterious character that Katherine is.
Charlie was perhaps a little more difficult to completely like. His story starts with the end of his relationship. And while I comprehended his heartbreak, I perhaps would have liked him not seeing begging for another chance.
But on the other hand, it was nice to see a man that isn’t afraid to show his emotions…

Seeing Charlie a bit at loss was something relatable for me in a way. Not only the end of his relationship threw him, but he is also doesn’t know what he really wants in his life. He loves music and his passion is playing the saxophone, but his latest music teaching job wasn’t as fulfilling as expected.

Now, I know he doesn’t have much choice, but I would never stay in the house I am renovating. Not just because I would be working 24/7, but having a bit of a mysophobia, I would be truly disgusted especially as there is no option to have a good shower! 😊

But on the other hand, it was also sweet to see how Charlie bonds with his uncle and aunt, and also with his new neighbours, especially Edie.
Working on the house, and bonding with people, is the perfect way for Charlie to think about his life and where he wants to go.
And I liked to see how he connects with the house and just the place in general.

But let me tell you, I don’t know if I would stay in the Constable’s Cottages with the ghost of Katherine wandering around! I would be running away, screaming as loud as I could! 😊
On the other hand, if I would have someone by my side, and I am not only talking about lovely dog Alan, but a close neighbour, like Edie, perhaps I wouldn’t be that afraid to do some investigation.

I was swept away by both stories, seeing how tragic love stories can be. But no matter the tragedy of it, we also see how strong and passionate it can be, fighting against all odds.
And it can also be inspiring, as it can bring other people, even in the future, closer together.
Love can be all-consuming but once found, understood and once found the courage to go for it, it will be all worth it, no matter what.

When you are (not) looking for your soulmate…

Synopsis

Welcome to Pepper Bay, where you’ll find love, drama, and a happily ever after.

Snuggle down with this cosy, feel-good, comfort read that whisks you away to a beautiful bay on the Isle of Wight – Perfect for fans of Christie Barlow, Alison Sherlock, Rachael Lucas, and Holly Martin.

The Pepper Bay books are standalone stories, best read in order, that intertwine with recurring characters.

The Treehouse of Dreams: When Willow Silver pays for a psychic drawing of her soulmate, she truly believes that one day he will come into her life, not that she has any time for love. She’s busy helping run the family garden centre. Plus, her best friend, Cody, is staying with her for a while, so she doesn’t feel she could run off in the name of love and abandon everyone, even when she bumps into a man who looks exactly like the one in the drawing.

My review

After breaking up with her boyfriend, on a whim, Willow Silver pays an online medium to draw a psychic drawing of her soulmate. When she sees Kip, she is astonished at how much he resembles the drawing she has of her soulmate. But with her family relying on her help on the garden centre, and her best friend Cody staying with her for the moment, Willow hopes that Kip will turn out to be truly her soulmate, understanding her duties and choices…

Returning to Pepper Bay always puts a smile on my face. And it’s great to see how this author writes each time a different kind of story, with characters of any age, in different stages of their lives. She keeps things original, while it could have been so easy to fall in the trap of repetition.

Willow is one of the youngsters in this series. At the delightful age of twenty – one, it’s obvious that her life it just at the start.
It’s clear that Willow is a loyal person, for her family and friends she would do anything. She also isn’t afraid to talk about emotions and tell what her feelings are. It warmed my heart to see how easy she says how important people are to her, and that she loves them.

That same loyalty also shows her commitment to her family and their business. She loves living and working in Pepper Bay, and she also sees her future here. And I cannot blame her!
She is enveloped by warmth and love, why would she want to leave?

The friendship she has with Cody is truly a great one. Even if they are of opposite sex, they get perfectly along, they can talk about everything, share everything (or at least almost everything 😊) and they would do anything for each other. Their friendship is the kind to be envious of.

While Willow in so many aspects shows a maturity not many of her age (or even older) would have, at times she acts a bit gullible. Because from the start it’s obvious how her tale should be ending, yet she clings so much on the psychic drawing, not allowing her to see the reality.
And after meeting Kip, she acts also out of character, it even looks a little bit desperate as she just wants Kip to fulfil her high expectations instead of realizing that perhaps Kip isn’t the soulmate she expects, wants or need…

With Cody having his own say in this book, it’s not a surprise how the story ends. But I liked reading how both Cody and Willow are trying to understand he shift of feelings.
And reading how Cody based his graphic novel heroine on Willow, just made me melt!

I liked it how different Cody and Willow were, but in retrospect, not that much at all. They perhaps don’t always understand each other’s hobbies, but they are each other’s biggest fans. They respect each other’s choices.

Talking about choices… I have to say that I admired Willow in her choice of not making love until marriage. It shows once again a maturity and an understanding of how precious making love is, and that there are people that only can do that act out of actual love. Now, don’t misunderstand me, I am not talking bad about people who made different choices (and I am one of them 😊) but I also think that we all should respect someone’s choice and even if we don’t understand it, and absolutely not try to make them change their mind!

Like I said, this was a delightful return to a place that makes me want to move. And reading a story about younger people than myself, but yet also having their heads screwed on the right way, was truly amazing.
And even if perhaps the end was a bit rushed, and choices were rushed (while I understood the made choices, don’t get me wrong! 😊) I enjoyed reading every bit of it!

When a Duke needs help…

Synopsis

STRATAGEM FOR THE RESTORATION OF RESPECTABILITY TO THE DUKE OF STANHOPE:

Step 1: Find perfect wife
Step 2: Save reputation from ruin
Step 3: Do not, at any cost, fall in love with Selina Ravenscroft

Peter Kent, newly inherited Duke of Stanhope, has developed quite the scandalous reputation – which must be overturned if he is to win the guardianship of his young half siblings.

For help he turns to Lady Selina Ravenscroft, society’s most proper debutante (save one tiny secret…).  She suggests courtship and marriage to a lady of unimpeachable character – which due to the aforementioned secret is definitely not Selina herself.

But her matchmaking goes awry when the scorching chemistry between them proves impossible to resist. For the disreputable duke and his unpredictable matchmaker, falling in love might just be the ultimate scandal…

My review

Peter Kent grew up in New Orleans, but has recently inherited the title of Duke of Stanhope. But adapting his American life to the British one, isn’t as easy, and quickly he has acquired a reputation. Not only are his manners not what is to be expected from a Duke, but also his politics made people look at him wary. But he doesn’t care what people think of him, all that he cares about is gaining custody of his younger half siblings. And the only way to do that is to become respectable. Luckily he can count on the help of Lady Selina Ravenscroft. She is always ready to help out the right cause. And hearing about the Duke’s plans and wish, how can she not help him, despite their first terrible encounter. To make someone respectable, is there a better way than getting married to a lady with an impeccable reputation? Yet what Selina didn’t expect that while helping Peter out on his mission, she would find herself attracted to the man.

However, what nobody knows, is that Selina also has a few secrets herself, that could jeopardize everyone, as she runs  erotic circulating library for women. And not to forget, that Peter’s own siblings are a force to be reckoned with and they aren’t just willing to move in with their half brother that in fact, they don’t know…

Aaaah Regency, an era that keeps on intriguing many people, myself included. While it’s a time where women for sure don’t have all the freedom we have now, for sure it is still an inspiring time, seeing how women are already freeing themselves from the limitations set upon them. And of course it’s great to see how not everyone has the same mindset and that the emancipating women can find support in open – minded men.

But in this book, somehow the tables are turned, as it’s not a Lady in need of a Knight in shining armour (or rather a Duke), but it’s the Duke of Stanhope in need of help.

I cannot imagine how it feels for Peter to give up his life in New Orleans to accept the inherited title. Yet it’s clear from his mission what kind of man he is. Many wouldn’t care about half siblings, especially if they weren’t recognized by the father.

But once Peter has learned about the existence of Lu and Freddie, he wants nothing less than having his siblings with him. That is truly admirable of him! And he is willing to go as far as possible to have Lu and Freddie with him, even if especially Lu is testing his patience! 😊

I liked Peter’s accomplice/ ally. Because Selina is a strong woman, having done some good in the past before, and isn’t afraid to fight for the right cause.

She comes up with the perfect solution to help Peter, as there is no better way to be seen as a respectable Duke by marrying a Lady with the best of reputations.

It was funny to see how Selina tries to figure out which Lady would be the best match for Peter, while finding several reasons to dismiss for sure more than respectable ladies. And while she doesn’t know it herself yet, we as readers for sure know what that means! 😊

Reading how Selina helps out Peter, yet mainly seeing the attraction grow between this pair, was for sure truly enjoyable! Sparks fly around between them, even if they find themselves at times in the strangest and most awkward situations!

However, no matter how big the physical attraction is, it’s not only that. Because Selina and Peter understand each other on an emotional level and also an intellectual level. They have the greatest respect for each other, and even start to admire each other. Because the both of them aren’t perhaps making the most popular choices, but for sure the most admirable ones, in one way or another.

I truly enjoyed reading this book, showing how a Lady is the lifesaver. But in a way, it’s also a story about two people being each other’s lifesavers, fighting together against prejudices and fighting against all odds. And all this, with having the unwavering support of family and friends, even in a time where reputation is everything. But beside all that, this book is filled with so much kindness, care, altruism, laughter and love!  

When there is not just The One…

Synopsis

Lily Forshaw loves her life, her job, and her best friends. Romance? Not on her radar. So, when a blind date with Zack leaves her unexpectedly smitten, she’s completely caught off guard.

But Zack isn’t the only one vying for her affection. As her heart becomes entangled between two very different men, Lily tumbles into an emotional whirlwind.

Lily hasn’t found ‘The One’, she’s found ‘The Two’.

With a troubled past haunting her, friendships hanging in the balance, and two passions pulling her in opposite directions, which future will Lily choose?

Can she truly have it all, or will she be forced to make an impossible decision?

Get ready to fall in love…

Purchase Link – https://mybook.to/LoveofLily

About the author

Olivia Lockhart (Livvie to her friends) is an English author who can’t quite decide if she wants to write contemporary romance or paranormal romance. Either way, it HAS to be romance.

She loves to write about the underdog, the one who got away, the bits of love stories we can all relate to.

When not writing she can be found drinking wine, cuddling her beloved pooch or with her head buried in a book.

When a break is final, yet there is still so much in the open…

Synopsis

A summer to remember…

A love to last a lifetime…

Stranded in Rome, with all planes grounded due to volcanic ash, Callum gratefully accepts a lift back to London with a friend-of-a-friend who’s on her way home after a European road trip in a campervan.

But when he meets her, his heart plummets – she’s Emma, his ex, The ex, and he can’t be stuck in a van with her.

When Emma sees Callum again, she’s horrified. It’s taken so many years to heal her heart – she really doesn’t want to spend the next few days in close quarters with him.

As they embark on the drive of a lifetime, it begins to feel as though fate might have had a hand in reuniting them. But understanding what happened in the past and coming to terms with the present isn’t easy. Can the gift of time – and forced proximity – bring them back together again?

A gorgeous romantic comedy set against the beautiful sights of Italy and France, perfect for fans of Beth O’Leary and Mhairi McFarlane

My review

Years ago, Emma and Callum were together. But as Callum didn’t have his life yet in order, Emma told them they needed a break. Only to never hear from him again. It took her a while to get over her heartbreak, as she truly loved Callum.
So you can imagine the shock when the person who needs a lift back to London, as a favour to her friend, is in fact the man that broke her heart.
And spending time together, in a confined space, is the last thing she wants.
The feeling is mutual, because Callum really doesn’t want to be that close to Emma. But he has no other option, as volcanic ash has made it impossible to fly back home from Rome.
So they start the drive back to London together in Emma’s camper van, but with the past still between them, will they have a chance to clear the air? And where will it leave them once safely arrived in London?

We all have that one relationship that ended badly, leaving us utterly heartbroken. But I can say, I never had the end of a relationship like Emma and Callum did. I can only try to imagine how hurtful that must have been.
And while it’s obvious the pair loved each other deeply back then, I could also understand why Emma had to put things on hold, as the path Callum was taking wasn’t a healthy one…

My friends know that when they are in my inner circle (and there are just a lucky few in it! 😊) they can ask me a lot. But even if my bestest of friends would ask me to pick up a stranger and bring them to London, I don’t know if I would just do it.
Because no matter what, for you he is a complete stranger, and who knows what will happen during the journey! (yeah, I watched too many thrillers, Criminal Minds, CSI etc 😊)

The shock when realizing that the ex – lovers are going to spend a lot of time together was for me rather hilarious. That is just my evil streak, as I can truly enjoy the awkwardness between people, especially when I totally not involved! 😊

Things start very very awkward between Emma and Callum, which makes absolute sense. And as they have different opinions over even random things (driving with flipflops for example), the journey appears to be a very exhausting one…

But it’s also that when you are forced spending time together, that those are the best moments to clear the air and to also get to know each other again.
Because years have passed between Emma and Callum, and they aren’t the same people they were when they were together.

While initially they clash over almost everything, slowly they start to understand each other, and it was lovely to see how when the love in the past used to be that great, it’s easy to let that love return.
However, even if the past is now water under the bridge, in order to move on, you need to talk about even the most hurtful moments in your life.

Reading how Emma and Callum are getting closer once again, was truly sweet. And reading how they get themselves in particular and peculiar situations, like in the monastery, for sure put a smile on my face! 😊

So while it was lovely to see that evolution between this pair, it also saddened me to read how fear was holding them back. Fear is something powerful, as it will protect you, even from heartbreak. But that same fear is what will prevent you to be truly happy and find the courage to love again.

This was a beautiful story, showing us how love can hurt you but also how it can heal you. And sometimes the most awkward situations can bring us the closure (or opening? 😊) that we need to move on in our lives, and it can let us find the courage to put our trust again in love.

Getting married was the “easier” part, now it’s to live up to the name…

Synopsis

A gorgeous Regency novel from Eliza Austin perfect for fans of Bridgerton!

Pemberley Presents…

Aware that some people consider her unworthy of the title Mrs Darcy, Lizzy is determined to prove her detractors wrong by throwing a magnificent house party at her new home, Pemberley. Nothing can possibly go wrong…can it?

Miss Caroline Bingley is quite determined to rescue Darcy from his reckless marriage. Convinced he must now regret his choice, she finds an unlikely ally in George Wickham who also wishes to avenge Lizzy, albeit for a very different reason. If Darcy were to find his ‘fine-eyed’ wife in a compromising position with Wickham of all people, he would surely never forgive her.

Lizzy finds herself in a desperate fight to save her marriage to Darcy, but can she ever compete with Miss Bingley and Wickham’s evil machinations? And what damage will this do to her own sisters’ happiness?

A sparkling continuation of Pride and Prejudice perfect for fans of Bridgerton!

Please note: this is a reissue of Miss Bingley’s Revenge

My review

Lizzy Bennett is happily married to Mr. Darcy, and tries to fulfil the shoes that is attached to being Mrs. Darcy. And when she throws a house party in the magnificent Pemberley estate, she knows the stakes are high, no matter how much support she receives from her husband and sister – in – law. Because not everyone is happy with the title Lizzy carries now, and Miss Caroline Bingley is one of them. Caroline Bingley is sure that Lizzy is not worthy of standing next to Mr. Darcy, and she just knows that Mr. Darcy already regrets his marriage. So it’s up to her to save him from his mistake, even if that means to find an ally in Mr. Darcy sworn enemy, Mr. Wickham.

But Lizzy isn’t going down that easy and is ready to fight for her marriage, even if it may be the most difficult fight ever…

Pride & Prejudice is my absolute favourite book of all times. I can read that book over and over again, and still discover new insights and it still makes me swoon time after time. So a book that is about my favourite couple in a sequel? Of course I have to read it!

Obviously, it wouldn’t be fair to compare the classic masterpiece with this book, as the story in this book keeps the essence of the classic, but the author has her own vision of where the book should go, and has added her own uniqueness in it.

Lizzy and Mr. Darcy are still deeply in love after their marriage. It was great to see that even if they are different in many ways, they have found the perfect balance.

Lizzy’s outspokenness has made sure that Mr. Darcy (I am sorry, I know that in the book he is called Will, but for me, he will always be Mr. Darcy 😊) is more opening up. And seeing Mr. Darcy also being more outspoken at Pemberley was just great!

Although I must admit, I was a bit shocked seeing the proper Mr. Darcy talking the way he does behind closed doors! Still waters for sure run deep! 😊

It was lovely to see how Lizzy was adapting to her life at Pemberley. She has always been a confident character, so in a way it was funny to see how suddenly she feels like she has something to prove that she is worthy to be called Mrs. Darcy. She doesn’t only have to prove that to others, but also to herself. Yet Lizzy has so many people rooting for her, people knowing that she is up to the challenge!

And despite her self-doubts, she still remains the Lizzy we all know and love. She still cares deeply about her family and friends, she supports them but she also isn’t afraid to reprimand them when necessary (oh yes, Lydia still is Lydia…)

It was sad and angering to see how despite Lizzy’s efforts, there are still a few people questioning her. And I was surprised to see Miss Caroline Bingley seeing things and ready to scheme to have Mr. Darcy for herself…

Now, Caroline Bingley has never been my favourite character, but in this book, I truly despised her. I know it is not the best feeling seeing how the man of your affections marries someone else, even someone else beneath him.

But it worried me seeing how Miss Bingley sees things that aren’t actually there. And if she truly knew Mr. Darcy as she claims she does, she would know that Mr. Darcy isn’t the kind of person that speaks out about his feelings or shows affection in public.

In one way I could understand Miss Bingley, as she is in a way heartbroken, but trying to win over the man of your dreams by breaking up his marriage and even using his enemy, how could that ever be a good plan?

While I had all the trust in Lizzy and Mr. Darcy seeing right through Miss Bingley’s plans and schemes, it saddened me how Miss Bingley’s schemes seem to be working, and causing a rift between them…

Especially when they have so many things to look forward to!

It angered me to read how people are willing to break up a happy marriage, for their own gains. But we also see the strength of a well – matched marriage. We see how a happy ever after in one book can be the start of a whole new journey. And what a journey that was! A journey with characters that I love and even with someone else writing the ‘sequel’, the characters never once lost the bits that made me love them in the ‘original’! I cannot wait to read the next books of this series!

Family, in any form, is what truly counts

Synopsis

A tragic loss…

Since the death of her beloved father, Isla Marlowe has felt the need to do something to honour his memory; something meaningful that will bring joy to others and repay the kindness of a stranger who changed their lives. She’s got the perfect solution, but she’s worried not everyone will understand.

A precious gift…

Aidan Kennedy and his husband, Jase, are desperate to start a family of their own, but finding the right woman to help them is difficult and some people don’t think they should even try. So when Isla offers them the chance to fulfil their dream, they can’t believe their wish is about to come true.

A family made of friends?

But when Isla is forced to face her greatest fear, Aidan and Jase’s dream has to be put on hold. Broken-hearted and questioning everything she once believed, Isla desperately needs someone to share her problems with but has no idea where to turn.

But then, in her darkest hour she discovers that friends can be the family you choose for yourself.

My review

Aidan Kennedy has had a hard time growing up, but now his life is almost perfect with his husband Jase. Almost, because their greatest wish is to have a family of their own. But finding the right woman to make their dreams come true isn’t easy, and they also have to face the unfortunately still living prejudices…

So when Isla Marlowe offers her help to fulfil their dreams, it seems that now they can start hoping instead of just dreaming.

Isla herself has been thinking about how to honour the memory of her father that she lost way too soon. With her background, she knows how important it is to find donors so that couples can create their own family.  And she knows that there won’t be any better parents in the world than Aidan and Jase.

But Isla has to face the biggest challenge in her life too, something that has the possibility to crash her own dreams and hopes…

There are stories that are wonderful. There is a lot of love in it, a few hurdles to jump over but in general, stories that just warm your heart.

And then we have this book… written by an amazing author. And let me tell you already now, before I go deeper into the story itself, this story is obviously all the above. But the amount of heart, passion and courage is just amazing.

I don’t know which storyline touched me the most. Because while they are obviously entwined, and the further the story goes, the closer it all gets, Isla and Aidan life stories have gone and are still going in different directions.

Isla is an inspiring character, in so many different levels. I was a bit surprised by her background, but her story also shows that a family isn’t merely made out of DNA, but it’s about the members in it. As I count myself lucky that I still have both my parents still around, I cannot even try to imagine the heartbreak Isla went through and is still going through after losing her father.

And I admired her decision in wanting to honour his legacy. Isla has been thinking what the right way would be, and she doesn’t take that decision lightly.

Seeing how a young woman is so down to earth, but also unselfish and has a big heart, showed me that no matter how ugly the world can be, there are so many delightful people, that can have a huge impact someone else’s life.

I truly liked Isla, not only because of the decision she has made, but also for the way that she just is. She is a great friend, but also while at work at the A&E in St. Piran’s Hospital, she shows her kind and generous heart.

It was lovely to read how Isla and Aidan were already friends at the start of this book, but how their friendship only increases with Isla helping Aidan and Jase in realizing their dream.

Can I just say what a power couple Aidan and Jase are? And not in the sense that they are perfect, don’t have issues or struggles. But they have found each other, and they are perfect for each other. they understand each other, and even when they don’t, they do their best to.

There couldn’t be a more amazing couple that will turn out to be amazing parents, because it’s clear that their child would be loved just the way they are.

Aidan and Jase have no prejudices, and especially Aidan has fought hard to be where they are now.

So it broke my heart to see how this amazing person, who deserves to be loved by everyone, has a strained relationship with his own family. He got truly hurt by especially his own father, who cannot accept Aidan for who he is.

Unfortunately, that even in 2024 is still a reality…

But while his own family is struggling with Aidan being Aidan, he has found a whole new family. Because Jase and his family are the Hallmark – kind of family. They are accepting, welcoming, understanding with a good dose of crazy 😊.

Both this power couple, as Isla deserve all the happiness in the world. But life doesn’t always goes the way as planned… And Isla’s life for sure takes an unexpected turn… How terrible would it be to finally have found a purpose in life, and even have met a potential special someone, only have it all blown away by devasting news?

I could understand Isla’s fears and her trepidation to tell her loved ones. But on the other hand, only by a-telling you can find the support you need, even if you don’t know that. Your loved ones would see it as a duty or a burden to support you. They just want to stand by your side through the toughest moments in your life. And how lovely was it, despite what Isla has to face, that she has Aidan, Jase and Rube by her side? It only shows that sometimes you don’t need to know someone for a very long time to have a bond with…

I found this once again a wonderful story by an author that just keeps on growing in my estimation for her. Jo Bartlett isn’t afraid to write about difficult themes, or themes that people may be opiniated about.

But what truly imprinted, was that families comes in so many different shapes and forms. Family isn’t always about shared DNA. Sometimes you need to find your own special family, find those special people that matter to you the most, and thus creating your own special, unique family unit. And no matter what your family looks like, or how it has been made, family is the most important that you can have in your life!  

When helping out is the perfect way to escape

Synopsis

Escape to chic and glamorous Paris!

When Poppy Phillipson loses her chocolate-making business in the Blossomwood Bay fire, she’s heart-broken; all her hopes and dreams wiped out in the space of an hour. As if that wasn’t enough, her last three dates were a complete disaster – one two-hour lecture on the intricacies of the off-side rule, one no-show, and an embarrassing abandonment mid-date – and she’s having a hard time not to take it personally.

So, when her brother asks her to come to the rescue of his friend Olivier Bourdain, owner of Pâtisserie Madeliene, following a freak skiing accident, she decides it’s the perfect way to escape the Devonshire drizzle and enjoy a petit sojourn from all-thing romance exploring the boutiques and boulevards of elegant Paris.

However, when she meets handsome French chef Fabien Dumont, with his sexy accent and dark brooding eyes, her determination to take a dating hiatus is severely tested. Should she concentrate on improving her skills as a pâtissière, or should she throw caution to the wind and embrace everything the City of Light has to offer… including the possibility of love?

Join Poppy as she heads to the dazzling city of Paris, and enjoy a story filled with delicious French pâtisserie and a soupçon of heart-warming romance.

My review

After losing her chocolate – making business to her Blossomwood Bay fire, is Poppy a bit lost. Not only did her dream end up in flames, but also on a romantic level things aren’t that great, with one disastrous date after the other.
So when her brother tells her that she could help out his friend Olivier Bourdain after a skiing incident, at first she isn’t sure. But on the other hand, spending some time in Paris and a typical Parisian Pâtisserie could be exactly what she needs together with her dating ban. However, Paris isn’t the City of Light and Love for a reason, and handsome chef Fabien Dumont ignites something in Poppy that she hasn’t felt for a long time. So will Poppy be courageous enough to embrace the Parisian life and enjoy her time there?

Whenever I pick up a book from this author, Eager and Curious Tizi emerges. I cannot wait to read what great adventures the main character will embark to.
And with Poppy going to Paris, a city that I have visited myself several time and have enjoyed the real Parisian Pâtissiers myself, it couldn’t get any better than that! 😊

The book doesn’t start at its happiest, as we know that the fire destroyed Blossomwood Bay, leaving many owners in the dark, not knowing what to do next. Also Poppy is just holding on, thinking what to do with her life now, as her dream truly just went into flames.
While that would be already difficult enough, if you have someone by your side, it can make things easier. Unfortunately, that is not the case for Poppy, as she is just having terrible dates, after being burnt terrible by love before.

Yet it also was sweet to see how she is surrounded by lovely people. Not only the people of Blossomwood Bay itself, but also her brother(s) are still very protective of her. And knowing what she has been through, especially her brothers want her to find happiness again. And while that is very much appreciated, I could also recognize some of Poppy’s frustrations. As I have also an older brother, I see that protective streak back with Poppy’s brothers. We all know that it’s all done with the best intentions, but sometimes they should all just back off a tiny little bit 😊.

I could also absolutely understand Poppy’s initial trepidation to head off on her own to Paris, not speaking French all that well anymore, and also not knowing anyone in this marvellous city.
It can be scary to arrive there on your own…
But of course our Daisy wouldn’t let our main character arrive in a city to let her have a terrible time!

Obviously I had a good laugh at moments, because as Poppy has to get used to the French language again, there may be some misunderstandings 😊. But if there is one thing that truly warmed my heart, was seeing how even in Paris, in a strange place, country, Poppy finds herself surrounded by lovely people.
Hélène is a force to reckon with, even an inspiring character, with each day a new class, one crazier than the previous class. But while being excentric, she is just so lovely! 
There are also the people Poppy meets at her new job, like Camille, Olivier himself, with all their own dreams and hopes.
And I have to admit, the cliché of French people, or at least the cliché that I had in my mind about French people, being arrogant and distant, were never seen in this book. On the contrary! All characters were warm, delightful, welcoming, patient and understanding.

I have talked a lot about everything in this book, with the exception of the romantic bit. Well, I am of course saving the best for last! 🙂
Sometimes you meet people that you instantly connect with, or that make sparks fly around. And that what happens between Poppy and Fabien. I liked to see how their first encounter is one filled with a misunderstanding, but it was great to see how slowly they become friends, and how the attraction starts to grow even bigger. 

Fabien, no matter how great he is (because he absolutely is! 🙂 ) isn’t having an easy time. Someone is after him, wanting to see him fail, and it weighs heavy on Fabien. We see here that no matter how good our intentions or ideas are, they can all come crashing into pieces at the hand of someone else…
But we also see that those that truly care about Fabien are adamant on finding out the truth.

It was a real enjoyment reading this book, even if I had to be patient to discover some truths (like how exactly Poppy got heartbroken in the past, or who the culprit is in the jewelry heist affecting Poppy’s friends back home). But even if patience isn’t my forte, it was definitely worth the wait. Because “meanwhile” I got to read a great story, about having a foreign adventure, that becomes a personal journey. But more important, I got to read a story about great characters, chasing their dreams or finding a way to achieve them. Just amazing! 

Can you get to know someone in just 5 ‘play dates’?

Synopsis

New from the NUMBER ONE bestselling author of The Note. A must-read uplifting romance for fans of When Harry Met Sally and One Day!

When Jesse Lightning meets Minnie Byrne, he is having a bad day.

Reeling from the effects of a very bruised heart, the last thing Jesse wants is a new friend. But Minnie is hard to say no to, and reluctantly Jesse realises that her impetuous playfulness might do him good.

So when Minnie suggests they go on fortnightly platonic dates with no strings, no promises, no expectations beyond good company, Jesse agrees before he has a chance to think too deeply about it.

Two friends.

Five days.

No chance of another broken heart.

Until Jesse reveals a secret that proves Minnie’s heart isn’t as safe as she thought. Thank goodness five days isn’t enough time to fall in love…

Once you meet Jesse and Minnie you’ll never forget them. This is bestseller Zoë Folbigg at her absolute best with a story of friendship, love and taking chances. Perfect for fans of Cathy Kelly, Mike Gayle, JoJo Moyes and David Nicholls.

My review

Jesse Lightening is a bit flabbergasted when on one of his worst days, he is approached by Minnie Byrne. He doesn’t need a new friend, especially one as persistent as Minnie. But somehow he finds it impossible to resist Minnie’s proposal: going on platonic dates, just to get to know each other without researching each other or knowing each other’s last names.
Together they go on 5 ‘play dates’, with the ingenuity of children, just do what puts a smile on them.
Slowly Jesse realizes that Minnie is what he needed in his life, to make some dark cloud disappear. And it’s remarkable how easy their friendship grows stronger. But there is a secret that Jesse has that can jeopardize everything they have been building. Luckily there isn’t love at stake, as five days, or rather dates aren’t enough for such strong feelings, right?

When I started reading this book, I wasn’t that sure I would actually like it or believe it. Not that I doubted the author, because I have read several books of her.
But I found it hard to grasp the fact that two strangers could have the romantic kind of feelings after only five days.
Lust, falling in love, that is possible in five days, but actual love? Difficult to believe, or at least for me. And I thought that in the book it would be actual five days, like from Monday till Friday, with just occasionally seeing each other.

Luckily, I got it wrong, and the story took place over a longer period, and Jesse and Minnie meet five times, for a long time, almost spending greatest period of the day together. So in that aspect I could believe that there could be something great growing between the two.

Normally, I sympathize the most with the female main character. But while Minnie is obviously delightful, I felt that my heart went more out to Jesse and his story.

As an introvert, I cannot imagine something worse than a stranger approaching me, start conversation and almost ‘forcing’ a friendship. And when I have a bad day? Just leave me alone, will you??? 😊
Jesse has everything happening all at once, and my heart broke for him…
It’s obvious how losing his father has affected him, and how in a way he is still in denial. The loss hasn’t really resonated yet…
But to make things even worse, around the same time he discovered that his marriage is falling into pieces, as his wife has been and is still being unfaithful.

The last thing Jesse needs is a cheery woman, being positive about everything. And the more I saw the pair of them together, the more I realized that Minnie is exactly what Jesse needs. Because Minnie is light, cheerful, positive while Jesse is darker, more ‘depressed’ and for sure needs someone to show him the beauty and fun all around him.

With such a light attitude, I was surprised to read that Minnie has had her own struggles, and still is struggling with the break – up. She seems a strong character, yet her ex truly played her one, in a way breaking her.
I liked it to read that the author didn’t make a great deal about Minnie seeking help, because there is nothing wrong about having someone else showing you how to cope.

The friendship started perhaps (or rather, it just started that way 😊) randomly and a bit forced, but I found it wonderful to read how in their own way Minnie and Jesse are able to lift each other up. Their relationship as friends took off by accident, but I believe that in a way it was just meant to be.

Of course there has to be a second act in this story too. I have to admit, I didn’t find it that a terrible secret that Jesse kept from Minnie. But on the other hand, I could also understand Minnie a bit.

This was a sweet story, showing how random things can turn out to be the best thing that could happen.
But we also see how the struggles in life can affect you and put a damper on everything. Yet with meeting the right person, everything can be put into perspective, or make you see the beauty and easiness that are in life.

 

Can love be found, when goodhearted schemes are also involved?

Synopsis

Greta Davies, the features editor at a women’s magazine, is accomplished and successful. That is, in all areas except her love life.

Determined to help, Greta’s boss – and friend – secretly enlists the help of the Ever After Agency, andsets out to make her dreams come true.

Work-obsessed Greta is nothing if not stubborn, so it’ll take some creative thinking, which leads to a lightbulb moment: a new column focused on dating in the city.

With date after disastrous date, things are not looking rosy for Greta. But little does Greta know, the perfect man has been there all along. Will she realise it’s more than friendship before it’s too late?

A fun and sexy rom com inspired by the classics How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days, Thirteen Going on Thirty and Sex and the City.

My review

Greta Davies couldn’t be more prouder with everything she has achieved as a features editor at a women’s magazine.
Unfortunately, no matter how successful she is being, the only place where she isn’t successful, is in love. As her boss wants Greta to find her perfect match, she enlists the Ever After Agency to work their magic. But as Greta may not know the real purpose of Poppy’s presence, a little white lie is being told, making Greta believe that it’s for the benefit of a new column, about dating in the city.
However, Greta is a clever girl, and quickly knows what truly is going on. As she is also ready to find love, she gives a twist on the task ahead, and starts to have disastrous dates, to hopefully end up with the perfect date and the perfect man.
Yet could it be that Greta already met the perfect man for her, but she saw him in a different light?

Sandy Barker is one of those author that I just have to see her latest book, and without even reading one word of it, I already have a huge smile on my face. Why? Because she has the ability to write wonderful, hilarious stories, that at the same time in a way are also very recognizable and heart – warming.

And once again, she absolutely delivered!

Greta is right from the start a wonderful character. Even without knowing her yet, I was happy for her accomplishment. She works hard, goes for her goal, yet always in a kind and genuine way. She isn’t the kind of person that will stab you in the back to get higher.
She surrounds herself with people that she trusts unconditionally, both at work as in the private atmosphere. She is the kind of person you want to be actual a real person, and is part of your own inner circle!

However, as so often is the case, no matter how successful someone is, there is something missing in another aspect. And Greta is the kind of person that deserves to find the perfect man. Speaking out of experience here, that is easier said than done! 🙂
Luckily her boss thinks the same and to add even more delight, asks Poppy for help!

Before I continue talking about Greta and her journey, I have to say how great it was to see Poppy again, together with Tristan. I already had a smile on my face while reading, but whenever Poppy appeared, my smile only grew bigger. And seeing the amazing relationship she has with Tristan, how in sync they are, just warmed my heart even more!

Now, back to Greta! 🙂

I truly believe that everyone deserves to find love. But the disastrous dates Greta has? Even I didn’t have *that* bad dates! But while I pitied the women that dated them before Greta did, at least for Greta it is material for her column. I for sure would be running for the hills if those men would be truly potential love interests! (although I have to admit, some weren’t that extremely bad! 🙂)

On her quest for love, or rather documenting the worst kind of dates, she befriends Ewan. And Ewan being a lookalike of James McAvoy, well, I was swooning immediately! But Ewan is not only about the looks. Conversation with him seems so easy, so real too.
Ewan is just the total package, even if perhaps he could learn to be more honest about a few things, to avoid misunderstandings later on.

The relationship between Greta and Ewan is a friendly one, but it was sweet on so many levels to see how well they understand each other, they support each other and don’t judge each other. Greta and Ewan just connect, even if they don’t realize just how well they connect. The more I saw the two of them together, the more I was hoping they would see what everyone, readers and other characters in the book, is seeing.
But while I was cheering for progress, I could also understand Greta. She has her eyes set on finding love through the agency, and truly believes that Poppy can deliver what promised. And I have to admit, Poppy’s Number 1 choice for sure is Greta’s perfect match on paper. But still…

In this lovely, amazing, hilarious, great book, we see how in the end, all what people want and need, is to have that special love, a person that makes you smile just thinking about them, seeing them is the highlight of the day, and just have that wonderful connection.
Sandy Barker once again showed us her splendid talent by writing a story proclaiming exactly that. With her talent, she makes you believe that love is out there for everyone, and that there is a lid for every pot. And that sometimes you don’t have to go all that far to find it!

Now, I have one last question for Sandy… Please tell me that the Ever After Agency truly exists, with all its wonderful people working there, and that I can sign myself up? 🙂