When a holiday turns into another murder investigation…

Synopsis

A much-needed holiday…

Dan Armstrong hasn’t done much retiring since moving to Tuscany, and with his new career as a successful private investigator taking off, it seems murder seems to follow him. He’s hoping a much-needed trip to beautiful Portofino will give him the break he needs and quality time with girlfriend Anna.

A gathering of celebrities…

Portofino is a celebrity paradise, and holidaying on a nearby superyacht is a group of British media stars, all famous for being infamous. Dan isn’t impressed by their status or wealth, but when he overhears an argument between two of the group, he suspects something fishy could be going on…

A cold-blooded killer?

And then a body is washed up on shore and Dan’s hopes for a holiday go overboard. Could this simply be a tragic accident or is there a killer amidst the assembled celebrity cast? Dan and Oscar have their work cut out before the tide turns…

It’s another gripping case for Dan and Oscar – it’s murder in paradise!

My review

Dan Armstrong, his girlfriend Anna and his loyal furry friend Oscar are ready to enjoy a lovely getaway in Portofino. HE has learned his lessons from the past, and is now finding the perfect balance between being a loving partner and his job as a private investigator. But as a former man of the force it’s difficult to turn away when a crime has taken place, this time a yacht and a group of British media stars are involved. And that is just the start of a new investigating adventure for Dan and his partner Oscar.

There are series that keep on dragging on, becoming repetitive and in the end even just bored, because you have seen it all before. And with an eighth book, well, let’s be honest, there are chances of this happening.

Luckily for us, with an author like T.A. Williams, this is absolutely not the case! Because once again I found myself devouring this book, enjoying being by Dan’s and Oscar’s side on another investigation. And yes, a murder taking place is not exactly something to enjoy, but you all know what I mean! 😊

First of all, I have to say that I liked seeing the change in Dan. Even if I didn’t know him and him working in the forces before his retirement, it’s general knowledge that he was a workaholic and that it cost him his marriage.

So seeing him being not only completely happy and in love with Anna, was great to see. Because Dan for sure deserves to find happiness again. But I liked it how he has learned from his mistakes, and how he won’t let work interfere with his personal life anymore.

Yet of course that is always easier said than done! No matter what good intentions someone has! 😊

Seeing the relationship growing stronger with every minute, truly made me believe that this couple can be endgame. But Anna is also a real Italian woman, letting Dan clearly know he is screwing up once again when he cannot turn of his investigating brain. But we also see that Anna truly loves Dan and understands him, even if she doesn’t always agree with him. It is for sure true that behind every strong man…

But of course this book is also about Dan investigating a murder. Or is it just one…

Yet I have to admit, that while in previous books I could sympathize with one or a few suspects, I missed that in this book. And that has absolutely nothing to do with the author’s writing, but more that my world and the suspects and victim(s) are so different. And that difference for sure is felt more with some characters than with others.

Nevertheless, a murder has taken place, and the culprit needs to be found. I have to say, I like it how Dan always finds a way to be part of the investigating team, while I for sure think that real Italians would be too proud to accept help from someone else, and someone who is not Italian too! 😊

Alongside Dan and Oscar (because let’s not forget about him!) I found myself interrogating the suspects, being suspicious of characters, believing or not the made statements. And when more dodgy things appear to be happening, the more I just needed to know the real extend of it all!

So with my own investigating cap on, I cannot say that the revelation of the culprit came as a total surprise, even if the reason for it was perhaps a tiny bit over the top. But on the other hand, when someone pushing on all the wrong buttons, who knows what the reaction will be?

My dearest Oscar for sure was once again up to his own canine mischief, just as I expected him to be. If he weren’t, I for sure would be worried about him! But we see once again how in fact he is the furry saviour of the day!

I truly enjoyed taking part of this new journey of Dan and Oscar. T.A. Williams once again swept me away with him taking us to Portofino this time. The way he describes the scenery for sure made me feel as I was walking alongside Dan, Oscar and Anna. And the cozy mystery for sure was another one that kept me reading, wanting to know what happened, how it happened, why it happened and who made it all happen.

Lady Catherine’s wish is everyone’s command, but does love listen to a Lady?

Synopsis

Pemberley Presents…

Lady Catherine de Bourgh has invited herself to Pemberley, intent upon bringing about an engagement between her daughter Anne and Colonel Fitzwilliam. But her ladyship has failed to take into account the remarkable improvement in her daughter’s health and spirits since the arrival of her new tutor, the charismatic Mr Asquith.

Meanwhile, Colonel Fitzwilliam is becoming more enchanted by the widowed Celia Sheffield and is perturbed to learn that her fortune is being contested by an individual in Jamaica – from whence Mr Asquith also hails.

When the obsequious Mr Collins shares grave rumours concerning Mr Asquith’s character, further suspicions are raised…and Lady Catherine demands answers!

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

Please note: This book was originally published as Colonel Fitzwilliam’s Dilemma.

My review

After seeing Mr. Darcy getting married to Elizabeth instead of her own daughter Anne, Lady Catherine de Bourgh is adamant on finding another match for Anne. The next best thing is seeing Anne married to Colonel Fitzwilliam. And Lady Catherine is sure that her compliant daughter will agree with her choice. To make sure such an union takes place, Lady Catherine invites herself and Anne to Pemberley, even if Mr. and Mrs. Darcy aren’t all that excited about it.

And what Lady Catherine didn’t take in account at all, is that Colonel Fitzwilliam himself finds himself drawn to widow Celia Sheffield. And that Anne is improving not only in her health but also in her spirits, with the help of her tutor Mr. Asquith.

Yet what Lady Catherine wants, is what Lady Catherine gets…

Well, here we are again, after reading another chapter in the Pemberley Presents series. And what a delight reading this chapter was! To be honest, I enjoyed this book even more than the first one, as in this book the focus was more on the romance and not on the deception or scheming of another character.

Of course it’s a delight to see how Mr. Darcy and Lizzy are still enjoying their lives together on Pemberley. And you already know how much I already enjoyed seeing this other, more open side of Mr. Darcy and how Lizzy is still that outspoken woman, yet also turning into the grand Lady that Pemberley requires.

But the focus in this book is definitely on Colonel Fitzwilliam and Anne de Bourgh. While in the original P&P I already liked Fitzwilliam’s character, the same couldn’t be said of Anne. It’s not that I disliked her, but she was rather invisible, unmemorable and a follower of whatever her mother told her.

The mother being Lady Catherine de Bourgh, another not so pleasant character… And unfortunately, even in this book she is that obnoxious know-it-all character, not having learned from the past. 

Once again we find her attempting to make the most profitable engagement for Anne, without taking in account what Anne wants.

Now, I have to say that Lady Catherine has made some improvements, as she has chosen Mr. Asquith to be tutoring Anne, something that in the past she would never think of doing…

It’s that Mr. Asquith that caused Anne to make remarkable changes in her own character. I truly liked reading how this rather invisible, insecure, and even weak young woman starts to thrive under Mr. Asquith’s watchful eye. Anne starts to have a mind of her own, question what is asked from her. And she starts to open up, even making genuine friends of her own! I would even go that far that in this book, Anne has turned into a real pleasant character! 😊

But of course standing up against your mother isn’t easy, especially if the mother is someone like Lady Catherine… I could understand Anne’s trepidation even if her feelings towards Mr. Asquith are growing. Yet I could also understand her fear, as this is the first time the young lady is falling in love, but are those feelings reciprocated or is Mr. Asquith after her inheritance after all?

Keeping in account in what era the story is taking place, I could understand a tiny bit Lady Catherine’s point of view, and her seeing Fitzwilliam as the perfect candidate – husband for Anne.

But Fitzwilliam, even if marrying Anne would solve several of his worries, is the kind of man that listens to his heart. And no matter how easy it would be to marry Anne, he cannot just marry her for the benefits.

And when he meets widow Celia Sheffield, he finds himself  attracted to her in an undeniable way. Of course he always remains the gentleman that he is, I wouldn’t expect otherwise from him! And when he sees that Celia in fact has struggles of her own, he without a doubt offers his help, without even asking something in return, even if that would have been so easy. THAT is the kind of man Fitzwilliam is, helping out without wanting anything in return…

I truly enjoyed reading this story, seeing how already established characters once again confirm who they are, but also seeing characters evolve, standing up for themselves. And I absolutely liked seeing how there was even some tit for tat, showing us that even the grandest of Lady’s cannot stand a chance or stand in the way of love!

When one mistake is just the start…

Synopsis

One mistake could change their lives forever… 

My life is a mess. My marriage is falling apart, and I’d hoped the arrival of our baby girl would bring us closer together. Yet, as she grows, I see less of a resemblance to my husband, stirring unsettling questions. 

I was hoping a visit from my friend, Victoria would bring some stability. With her seemingly perfect life in Spain, she embodies hope for a brighter future. 

But our reunion has taken an unexpected turn. And when a shock diagnosis shakes our family further, Victoria doesn’t know it yet, but she might just hold the key to saving our family. 

But if I want her to help, a big secret has to come out. Revealing the truth risks everything – my marriage, our friendship, our families. Can we weather this storm, or will it shatter us beyond repair? 

An emotional and powerful novel of motherhood, friendship and what family means to us all. Perfect for fans of Jodi Picoult and Susan Lewis.

My review

Nicole made a mistake a few years ago, a mistake that almost cost her her marriage. But when her little girl Grace is for sure bringing the family lots of joy, the fact that Grace doesn’t resemble her father Andy at all, is not making things easier for the struggling family. With the lockdown having made friendships more difficult, Nicole can always rely on her friend she met in Spain, Victoria. But while online Victoria seems to be living in paradise, she is struggling with the direction her marriage is taking. And being the mother of twins can for sure be tiring. However, no matter how difficult life may seem for these women and their families, the real nightmare has to start yet, with the shocking diagnosis as a catalyst that may jeopardize just everything for everyone involved…

There are stories that right from the start make you fearful. Not that you are reading a thriller and that you are afraid of a murderer, a ghost or I don’t know what. But you are afraid of what will happen to the characters as you can sense the doom lurking around the corner, ready to strike and cause a devastating avalanche.

And it has to be said, the story already doesn’t start with a ray of sunshine. Because we see Nicole and her husband trying to come to terms with the mistake that Nicole made a few years ago. While I for sure condemn her choice at the moment, in a way I could understand what has brought her to that moment, to that choice.

But it also needs to be said, even if things are still a bit restrained between her and her husband Andy, they are still very much in love, it is for sure admirable that they are ready to fight for their marriage, they both want it to give it their all. Because is one mistake, one lapse of judgement enough to throw years of happiness away?

I truly found that admirable, because not many people would be that forgiving as Andy. This is also seen in the reaction of how friendships have become strained what Nicole involves. Nicole knows she made a terrible mistake, but she is prepared to pay for her ‘sins’.

Despite their struggles, it warmed my heart seeing how a close unit this family of four was. Nicole and Andy for sure love the children Ben and Grace, even if there may be some doubts about Grace’s parentage…

I was curious to know how on earth Nicole and Victoria met, as Victoria is living in Spain with her husband Mark and their twins Leo and Sophia. And I found it sweet in a way to read how a holiday in Spain would link these two women forever.

In Victoria’s case, it’s clearly a fact that what you see isn’t always reality. Because despite all the happy picture and videos on their social media, Victoria is truly struggling. Not only did she have post – natal depression after having the twins, but Victoria also feels that she is the only one looking after the children as Mark is more away than anything else.

It saddened me to see how hard Victoria has fought to get where she is now, to only be on er own, and not having the much needed help and support from Mark.

I have to say, I never truly warmed towards Mark, because he never makes the effort, and his behaviour for sure made me cringe more than just once. He doesn’t seem to understand Victoria at all, or just how family works. As Victoria comes ‘from the system’, she has her own unique family, and obnoxious Mark doesn’t seem to understand that family isn’t just made out of blood. The contrast with Andy couldn’t be any bigger…

I think that if possible, my heart would literally break reading about the tragedy that struck Nicole’s family… That diagnosis is a terrible one, especially when a child is involved with it. It’s just unfair that the weakest, more innocent people have to face the most terrible fight of their lives, and that at such a young age…

It didn’t came as a real shock to me to read about that great revelation. But it made me wonder how things could ever work out for everyone. I cannot even try to attempt to image how I would react in such a situation. It would truly crush my world and I would honestly go crazy.

The more the news of the revelation spreads, the more we see different kind of reactions. While the largest bits react in an admirable way, there are also some reactions that left me flabbergasted, over the selfishness of those characters.

But seeing how people put the right perspective, the right priorities, truly warmed my heart.

This isn’t an easy story to read, as it for sure pulled the strings of my poor heart. It shows us how unfair life can be, how ugly people can get. But it also shows us the strength of family, created by blood or not. It shows us the lengths parents will go for their children. It shows us the power of love, as it won’t let one mistake of the pas break up everything.

Emma-Claire Wilson wrote a gripping story how life can throw you curveballs, attempting to break you. But the resilience we have, should never be underestimated. While it broke my heart, reading this story, I also found it impossible to just put it away, to in the end realize how strong and full of fight this book in fact is…

Always the (Mc)Bridesmaid…

Synopsis

Is the best man also Mr Wright?

Perpetually single Hayley McBride – hairdresser and hopeless romantic – is delighted when her brother asks her to help plan his wedding. Until that is, she’s forced to work with her brother’s best friend, Oliver Wright – a cold and aloof divorce lawyer and a man who’s always hated her.

Oliver has seen enough broken relationships to know love doesn’t last. Being his friend’s best man is just a formality. What is there to do other than ensure his friend’s younger sister, Hayley, doesn’t waste too much money on a one-day event?

But Hayley has a knack for making people smile, and Oliver has struggled for years to resist her. As they work together, he starts to wonder if he’s been living in denial.

Hayley keeps chipping away at his walls, and uncovering a different side to him, but can she risk her heart on such a committed cynic?

They must decide whether to take a chance on love or stick to being nothing more than Bridesmaid McBride and Mr Wright the best man.

My review

Hayley McBride couldn’t be happier for her brother as he has finally found the love of his life. And of course Hayley is more than happy and willing to help not only with the wedding itself, but also with the sten party. Weren’t it only that Finlay’s best man is Oliver Wright, a cynical divorce lawyer, who doesn’t believe in love at all and sees weddings as a waste of time and money. Yet forced to work together, Hayley realizes that there is more than an adverse – to – love man than she thought… And Oliver himself finds himself unable to resist Hayley anymore… And when a week in London brings them to an one – off, once back in Glenbriar can they truly just return to the hate – relationship they used to have?

If there was one couple I was very eager to be happening, it for sure was Hayley and Oliver! From the snippets we saw in the previous books in this amazing series, the too obvious dislike for each other for sure had to turn into a great story! And what a story it was!!!

Hayley for sure is a ray of sunshine whenever and wherever she appears! She stands so positive in life, and is happy to see all her loved ones finding love.

But even the brightest of people can have a moment of difficulties, and I for sure could understand those little bits of jealousy. Because it was very recognizable, in my case at least, seeing everyone finding their perfect match, building a life, while you yourself seem to be unable to find that same kind of love…

Of course such a bubbly character is meant to clash with a character like Oliver Wright…

In one way, I could understand his not – believing in love. Being a divorce lawyer for sure makes you see the most ugly bits of a marriage. But I also felt that there was so much more to his tale than just seeing too many marriages going awry…

And his tale for sure truly saddened me, as it’s clear that in fact, cold Oliver is in fact just a lonely person, wanting nothing more to love and be loved. And with the relationship with his own family not being an easy one, and still coping over a huge loss, I couldn’t exactly blame him of being afraid to do exactly that what he wishes the most, because as far as he knows, love will only hurt in the end…

From the start of this book, Hayley and Oliver clash just over everything. And of course I enjoyed every moment of it! 😊

But when the change starts, on their trip to London, I truly fell in love with story. Because not only do we see how attentive and kind Oliver in fact can be, but we also see how slowly his walls are falling down. And seeing how Hayley starts to understand the enigma that Oliver is, truly made me cheer for this unlikely couple!

Sparks start to fly around in London, but I appreciated how both characters don’t find themselves rushing things, even if they want to.

They don’t longer ignore what is building between them, yet they are just there for each other, also in time of need.

And in those moments, whether it’s looking for the right sten activity, or offering a shoulder to lean on in a scary situation, we can see the real depth of what is growing between them.

Now, of course this pair still have several struggles to overcome, some easier than others. Because fear can at times be a sensible thing, but it can also be the thing that keeps you away from something beautiful. And while it may seem easy to say to just let that fear go, when it got such a hold on you, giving in to your feelings isn’t easy at all!

Margaret Amatt wrote once again a marvellous next chapter in the Glenbriar series. I loved the new main characters, as they show not only show depth and growth, but also show us that sometimes love can be found closer than we might think.

And with characters from the previous reappearing and new entries showing their presence, I cannot wait what next story this amazing author has up in her sleeve! 😊

Even witches would do anything for their loved ones

Synopsis

Two complete strangers. 

One life-changing spell. 

 Becca Ashworth’s family is in trouble and with their magical legacy under threat, it puts their small village of Biddicote at risk too. So going against the witching tenets to summon an ancestor for help seems like a small price to pay to fix the problem…at first.

Connor Lynch is the Witches Council’s secret weapon and he’s just been deployed to find out exactly what the Ashworths are up to. But how he ends up posing as Becca’s fake husband at a magical inn in Cornwall as they hunt down a magical artefact is just as perplexing as the cheerful witch herself.

When their attraction for each other grows, Becca and Connor question everything they have been taught – and soon the missing artefact isn’t the only thing they are searching for. As love collides with duty, it’s clear that sometimes you need to be careful what you witch for…

My review

Becca Ashworth’s ancestry is one of the most powerful witches of Biddicote. Yet being witches doesn’t mean that anyone can do what they want, as there are laws to stick to. But with Becca’s cousin in dire need of help, Becca decides to act against the witching tenets and summons an ancestor to help out. The Witches Counsil always keep an eye of the Ashworth, and thus their secret weapon, Connor Lynch, is sent to Biddicote to find out what they are up to now. Connor is the kind of with that everyone fears, for his powers, making him standoffish, introvert, wary and also lonely… So when there is a mysterious artefact that Becca needs in order to help her cousin, she and Connor are up to a magical Inn in Cornwall. With no other option that pretending to be newlyweds, not only are they now trying to find the missing artefact, but also are they now trying to understand their growing attraction, all amidst their own fears, for one reason or another.

Normally I am not into books that have any kind of witchcraft. I find it a bit difficult to read stories with too much abracadabra or Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo. So you may think “why then Tizi, did you pick up this book, as it’s clearly about witches?” Indeed, why did I? Well, because my curiosity of the romance was greater than my disinterest of witchcraft!

And I was glad my curiosity won, as I truly enjoyed reading this book!

From the very start it’s clear what kind of person Becca is. Even if she has lost her mother too soon, and the relationship with her father is rather difficult, she is a loving and caring person. And there is truly nothing she wouldn’t do for her loved ones. So even when her cousin needs help, and if that means to summon an ancestor even if that is forbidden, Becca is ready to face the consequences, as long as that means that her cousin is helped.

Becca is also a cheery woman, she lights up the room with her presence and also is able to befriend people quickly. Her powers are for sure a handy one, as she is able to retrieve lost objects. And seeing how she uses it to even put a smile on the smallest of children.

As you have now a good idea how shiny and bright Becca is, take now the total opposite. Imagine a broody, dark, close character. Multiply it by 10, and you have an idea about Connor’s character.

Now, I have to say, Connor’s behaviour is explainable, and it broke my heart to read his background.

His power is truly a powerful one, but also one that instigates fear. But his power means that his job has to be a secret. And his power is also a scary one for himself, as he doesn’t truly know the extent of it, making him to keep everyone at a safe distance.

His solitude was so saddening, no one deserves to be so alone and lonely in the world… But I could understand why he chose to keep everyone at distance, even if it was partly due ignorance and partly due not having the needed support from just anyone…

I could not wait to see Becca and Connor being together, the bright and the dark(er). As they find themselves together staying in a magical Inn, I found it sweet to see how this unlikely pair are joining forces (and powers) together. But the best bit was seeing how open Becca was. In the sense that even after learning who Connor really is, and what his powers are, she isn’t afraid of him. Yes, that 

kind of power is a scary one, but Becca tries to make Connor understand that she doesn’t fear *him*. And I believe that that is an important distinction.

And it was sweet to see how protective Connor is whenever Becca is involved, even if his task is to unravel what her family is up to.

Together with Becca not only is Connor opening up, but he also understand the importance of being part of a clan. As he has always been on his own, even not having a place to call home, the more time he spends with Becca, the more he sees the benefits of a family and a home. He also starts to trust his own instincts.

I truly enjoyed reading this story, as it shows us that even the greatest opposites can attract. But they can both learn from each other. We see it’s a slow process, also a case of testing the fields. I had so much fun also reading this book, as for sure Becca knows how to bring joy and laughter to those around her.

But there are also so many heart – warming moments, seeing how a warm family unite, but also how characters can comprehend the most closed – off people and show another way of life.

I enjoyed the whole concept of this book so much, that I even found the magical bits a nice addition! 😊

When you want to help your younger sister and it becomes a quid pro quo…

Synopsis

Robyn Allen is finally getting closer to her dream of West End stardom. And along with her role dancing in the latest hot musical, she’s being wined and dined by an equally hot man – the wildly successful and well-connected Fabian Carrington. But one slip up and her dreams are shattered, and Robyn has to hobble back to the Yorkshire village of Beddingfield, and the life she hoped she’d escaped.

Moving back into her mum’s house with her recalcitrant teenage sister Sorrel, next door to her older sister Jess who’s fed up with picking up the slack, is not how Robyn pictured her year. But there’s more to come. Sorrel needs a new school, and the school needs a new drama teacher. Despite having vowed never to teach again, Robyn knows she has to support her sister.

So together Sorrel and Robyn vow to take on St Mede’s – home to jokers, tearaways and trouble-makers, but with a hidden heartbeat ready to be inspired. And who knows, the kids might have something to teach Robyn about life too…

Welcome to the village of Beddingfield and the first book in bestseller Julie Houston’s new series set in Yorkshire. Funny, fabulous, heart-warming and hilarious, you’ll never forget the Allen sisters and their one-of-a-kind community. Perfect for fans of Jo Bartlett, Cathy Bramley and Philippa Ashley.

My review

Robyn Allen thought that things were finally falling into place, after securing a place in a musical in the West End, and has found love in the form of handsome and successful Fabian Carrington. But just when things to go the best way, everything comes crashing down. Literally, as after a fall she gets herself injured and cannot perform for a while. And then she learns that Fabian is going to defend the Soho Slasher, a murderer. And then there is also the fact that not everyone of Fabian’s family is welcoming Robyn with open arms, resulting in heartbreak for Robyn.

So when her mother has been hospitalized and her younger sister Sorrel is in her terrible teen, Robyn moves back home to Beddingfield.

But peace is the last thing Robyn will find, because as Sorrel needs to be accepted in St. Mede School. Yet Sorrel has a reputation that doesn’t make headteacher Mason Donoghue exciting to accept her. Until he learns about the women’s father and Robyn’s musical career. So in order to make Sorrel attend St. Mede, Robyn has to accept the job as a drama teacher.

And for the sake of your sister, you would anything, right?

It’s the evil side in me, but I like it when in a book, the main character has her dreams falling into pieces, and then has to return home, to mend her broken heart, think about her future etc.

But most of the time, the drama has just happened in a book, or takes place in the first few chapters.

So I was a bit surprised to read how Robyn is on the verge of having her dreams coming true. If you want to be a star in the West End, it must be amazing to finally see that ‘impossible’ dream coming to fruition!

And to have your career finally to take off, AND to find the perfect man, Robyn for sure must feel that she is on top of the world!

I have to admit, I don’t know if I immediately liked Fabian from the moment he appears in the book. He has the looks, he has the brains, he has the heritage. It all just seemed too good to be true?

But on the other hand, I liked it how he didn’t care about Robyn’s waitressing. He truly seemed to like Robyn for who she is, and he finds her refreshing.

Nevertheless, it’s obvious Robyn and Fabian come from different worlds, and no matter what they may feel for each other, their worlds is what tears them apart. What I didn’t comprehend at moments was that even if you have a different opinion, was how strong those opinions were, and how both characters weren’t always able to understand the other point of view…

Of course, this break – up  was also needed for the story to evolve. So with Robyn’s injury and her heartbreak, that brings her back to Beddingfield.

Yet instead of finding a welcoming return, she comes home in utter chaos! Het mother is not well, her father is absent (as he always has been), her sister Jess is facing also a break – up and her sister Sorrel is being an over the top teenager, being expelled from school.

As every responsibility falls upon Roby, she must now make sure that Sorrel is accepted at St. Mede, in order to prevent worse for Sorrel.

I was a bit shocked reading how the headteacher wasn’t afraid to use a tiny bit of blackmail, as that for sure isn’t the way a headteacher should!

But quickly I had to reassess my opinion of Mason, because it’s clear that he has the children’s best interest at heart. And being a headteacher at St. Mede’s cannot be easy, as many pupils are struggling on so many different levels.

Being a (head)teacher isn’t easy, and I know it as I actually once thought that was the career for me, so I admired Robyn ready for the challenge. And a challenge it for sure is, as there is a wide range of difficulties to overcome. All the while trying to help out her own family too…

Robyn has to go through a lot in this book, struggling with her injury, coping with her heartbreak, trying to be there for her family, and at the same time trying to do her best at school. There are also a few demons of her past resurfacing, and that brings her protectiveness even more forward. But we also see that protectiveness towards the pupils at school. She sees beyond the surface, and even when she doesn’t, she tries to understand them.

I have to say, that the romantic bits in this book didn’t actually go as I thought it would. In a way, I was even a bit disappointed because I saw so much potential in a relationship, to only see it go totally somewhere else. But even if that storyline didn’t go as I expected, it doesn’t mean I didn’t like it 😊.

As this is only the start of a whole new series, I cannot wait to read what this author has next in store for us readers. Even if the focus will be on other main characters, I am sure that the same kindness, warmth and love will be still as palpable at it was in this book!

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.