Isn’t home the best place for a fresh start?

Synopsis

A fresh start among old friends…

Florence May never expected to trade the high life of London for the cosy comfort of a beach hut in her Cornish hometown, but the moment she steps inside she knows it was the best choice she ever made. The fact that it comes with a requirement that she sets up a business on site? A minor setback that’s easily fixed by opening up a surfside outpost of her friend Clemmie’s Little Cornish Kitchen … where Floss finds herself unexpectedly flourishing.

And when the hotel owner next door sets out to buy the land out from under her? Floss calls on her loyal friends to help her save her little slice of heaven. Because if there’s one thing the community of St Aidan does well, it’s banding together to make the most of every second, whatever life throws at you.

My review

Florence May, Flossie for her friends and family, has decided to swap the hectic London life for the calm and peace of a beach hut in her Cornish hometown. As things have been for sure life – altering for her, the quiet of St Aidan is exactly what she needs. But what Flossie didn’t know after purchasing her beach hut, is that there is a stipulation that the new owner must set up a business on site. Having no clue what to do, Flossie can luckily count on her girls’ squad, especially as her friend Clemmie suggests to use Flossie’s beach hut as a surfside outpost for Clemmie’s Little Cornish Kitchen. Even when then in St Aidan there is a link with her London – life in the form of Kit, Flossie is determined to not let the past hold her back. No matter how much Flossie proclaims that she is done with love, Kit slowly finds a way to creep in. But when the hotel owner next door, Kit’s boss of all people, wants to buy Flossie out, it’s a matter of the community of St Aidan to join forces. Because that is what St Aidan does best, protect one of their own. Especially one that is flourishing under the Cornish sun like Flossie…

I have never been to Cornwall myself, and for sure it is on my bucket list. After reading several books with this setting, I lost my heart to this place, and I truly believe it is a magical place, where the peace, quiet and calmness can do wonders to you. So even if I haven’t been there (YET! 😊) of course I had to read a book with this setting. And it obviously helps if it’s from an author that I love!

From the start, I could understand why Flossie needed to return to St Aidan. While initially she loved her life in London and had a wonderful relationship, after things went downhill, why not return to your roots? Especially if that place is filled with family and friends, and it can give you the much needed peace…

My heart broke for Flossie, learning what she has been through. And it easy to only look at one side of the journey she has been through, but people also often forget how that one setback can affect so many other aspects of your life.

And with this story, with Flossie’s tale, we do not only see that perfect life falling apart because of it, but also how in another it can give you the strength to make life – changing choices, and go for a second chance, a fresh start.

And what a fresh start, as it for sure starts with a bang! It must have been surreal for Flossie to find herself in that situation. But in a way, it was also fitting in a way, because not only is this the moment she meets Kit, but it’s also the start for Flossie to understand that no matter what life throws at her, she is still here, and is even a very important presence, to everyone.

It was lovely to see how everyone in St Aidan, not only her friends and family, welcomed Flossie back with open arms. And yes, even if in a place like St Aidan, everyone knows everything about everyone, this is the place that Flossie needs, and the place that needs Flossie…

Starting over is never easy, but with such a squad behind Flossie, I knew that Flossie would succeed! I have to admit though, that when Flossie starts to assemble desserts together, I was a bit worried. It seemed a bit like a scene of a cartoon, let’s just put everything together and we’ll see what will come out of it!

But of course, I should not have doubted Flossie, as her recipes are a success!

Obviously, there has to be a love interest in this book. Not that it is mandatory, but I think that Flossie needed a love interest in her fresh start, in order to complete the growth she is going through. With everything she has been though in London, and how it affected her, of course I could understand why Flossie didn’t need love on her path. Also this is a setback of what she has been through, has been fighting against. Her course altered her life in so many ways, and she truly believes that love isn’t written in the stars for her.

Well, luckily for her, and for us, there is Kit!

It was sweet to see how this couple keep on darting around each other, for one reason or another. It may be for catching Shadow who has ran off once again, or for calming Kit’s customers. Somehow, these two just keep on finding, needing and supporting each other!

But what warmed my heart the most in this beautiful story, is that no matter what happened to you, no matter how different you can be from those the closest to you, in St Aidan there is always a place for you. And no matter how hard you try, you cannot stop love from hitting your heart and make the impossible even happen.

This was truly a heart – warming story, showing us no matter how ugly life can het, surrounded by the people that you love, in a wonderful setting, second chances at life and love will find a way! In more ways than just one! And those Flossie – recipes at the end of the book? For sure I will try them out!!! 

When your whole world is crashing down, is there still hope?

Synopsis

Blossom Sunshine’s life is anything but boring right now. She’s determined to finally solve the mystery of who her biological father is – despite Mum Ada putting a spanner in the works. What is Ada trying to hide? Meanwhile, best friend Billy is doing his best to impress new girl Jenna. This means cutting back on all the delicious cakes and carbs that he loves, but Jenna’s worth it. Isn’t she? And then there’s Blossom’s own love life, which has been a catalogue of disasters up till now – but that was before she met Trevor.  He’s not her usual type but she thinks maybe that’s a good thing?Could this be real love at long last? One thing’s for certain – the path to Blossom achieving her heart’s desire looks like it will be far from smooth!

My review

Blossom Sunshine has a record of finding the wrong boyfriends. But no matter how bad things ended, she could always count on the support of her sisters Skye and Rory. Yet now she has met Trevor ,and things should be looking up, weren’t it that Blossom recently discovered that her mother has been lying to her her whole life about who her father is. Determined to find out the truth, she is on a mission now. But finding her real father isn’t the only thing bothering her, as Blossom also feels that she is losing her best friend Billy to a woman who doesn’t deserve Billy’s heart. Will there be sunshine after the downpour for Blossom, just like it was for her sisters? Or will the youngest sister never have answers to her questions?

Having devoured the previous books of the trilogy, I could not wait to read Blossom’s story. Not only because I still had several questions left unanswered previously, but I also wanted to see who would steel Blossom’s heart, as it is clear that Blossom’s heart is a real treasure.

Blossom in this book isn’t the Blossom that we met in the previous books. Because the discovery that her mother has lied to her for years, was a shocking one. And I could understand Blossom too, why not be honest about her parentage, even if it would be hurtful to hear about it? And just like Blossom, I didn’t believe the next story she was told…

However, despite her inner turmoil, she never loses her kind and caring heart. She always has a kind word for everyone, and is always offering a helping hand to her loved ones, from her sisters, to her friends, to even the people in her happy place…

Blossom is the kind of person that the world needs more of, because these kind of people make the world a so much better place…

So even if her life was in turmoil, I was happy for her to have found love, in the form of Trevor. I have to admit, I perhaps would have preferred her falling in love with someone else, but I could understand the attraction. And Trevor, even if he isn’t Blossom’s usual type, for sure ticks all the boxes. Although I have to admit that I wasn’t 100% convinced by him. And no, it has nothing to do with my own preferences! 😊

I liked Blossom’s determination, finding out one way or another who her father is, and just what her own history is. I loved the strength of the sisterhood, as Blossom can rely on Skye and Rory to be there for her at the most difficult moments.

As we know, the relationship with Skye has always been a more strained one, often explained by the bigger age gap between the sisters, but that doesn’t take away the clear love the sisters have, Rory included.

Now, from book 1 of this trilogy, I had a gut feeling about Blossom’s parentage. But Rosie Green managed very well making me doubt myself, only to make me scream afterwards a very loud “I KNEW IT!!!”

But this isn’t only a story about Blossom and her quest. It’s also a book about love, and self – discovery. Love, because Blossom has to learn that no matter what happens, love, in its truest from, just doesn’t disappear overnight. And I am not talking only about the romantic kind of love, but the love in a family, for sisters, for mothers, for friends. Friends like Billy, that perhaps you don’t know that long, yet there is this instant connection. The bond between Blossom and Billy is a sweet one. They just get each other, accept each other, and wish each other the best.

And just like Blossom, I was saddened to see how Billy getting the girl of his dreams changed him. Now, don’t go thinking badly about Billy, because he for sure doesn’t deserve it. But Billy is a perfect example of wanting to change yourself for the sake of someone else, so they like you. But let me tell you this dear reader, you are just perfect the way you are, and if someone wants to change you, or take advantage of you, that means they aren’t the right person for you!

Now, like I said, this is also a story about self – discovery. It would be too easy to just link it to Blossom’s desire to find her father. Because it’s not only that. It’s also about Blossom needing to find out what she wants to do with her life and what direction her life should take. Blossom needs to find the courage to make a choice, a decision, to take the right path. But she also needs to follow her own feeling, and not just rush into things.

This third amazing book of a wonderful trilogy for sure had me hooked from the first page! Blossom didn’t have an easy journey in this book, as she has definitely several challenges. But no matter what happens to her, she never loses the essence that makes her uniquely Blossom.

Blossom may seem the most fragile of the sisters, but yet she shows us so much strength, passion, kindness and understanding. She is the kind of person I would like to have as a friend myself, as I would know I would always have a fierce ally in my corner. She shows us that no matter what curveballs life throws us, they can only strengthen us.

Rosie Green wrote once again a stunning book, with great characters, character evolution, and most important, so much heart in it!

Don’t we all wish for book boyfriends to be real?

Synopsis

Lose yourself in Lakeville Hills in this gorgeous new romance from bestselling author Camilla Isley…

When she’s ghosted by yet another Tinder match, Leighton swears off dating for life. Who needs apps and blind dates when she has the perfect-in-every-way (apart from being fictional) heroes of her beloved romance novels?

That night Leigh finds a second-hand book on her TBR pile, which transports her to the small-town of Lakeville Hills, where the heroines wear shorty-shorts and the men drink bourbon. And as Leigh drifts off to sleep, she dreams of billionaire cowboy Killian St Clair, who could win a gold medal for smouldering and bicep flexing.

For a while, Leigh finds it easier to stomach misogynistic supervisors, newly coupled friends, and extravagant bridesmaid duties knowing she can return to Lakeville Hills each evening. Until one day, she wakes up to find she’s brought a bit of Lakeville Hills back with her: the impossible sexy and entirely implausible Killian St Clair is in her apartment.

Now Leigh must help Killian navigate the real world. But as she gets to know the man behind the trope, can she keep her heart safe, or does she risk falling in love with her book boyfriend in real life?

My review

Leighton has had enough of dating apps and dating in general. She is also tired of seeing all her friends finding the loves of their lives, while she only manages to get ghosted. And then she finds the most perfect boyfriend ever, in the form of Killian St Clair, billionaire cowboy. If only he wasn’t living in the current book Leighton is reading now, and he appears in her dreams too! Leighton at this points enjoys more the nights with Killian in her dreams than living the real life, with demeaning supervisors and not spending too much money… But when one morning she wakes up, and Killian is right there beside her. How on earth is it possible that Killian went from the pages of that strange second – handed book into standing in her apartment? Now Leighton has to make Killian adapt in the real world, where he is a nobody? And can risk Leighton to lose her heart to this more than perfect persona, even if he cannot be possible real?

How much can a 37 – years old woman swoon over a book? Let me tell you, the swoons are impossible to count! Because this book gave me every vibe I needed and didn’t know I needed!

Being a bookaholic, I have dreamed so often of book boyfriends, or me being the main character in my favourite book, and yes, I admit, having the perfect boyfriend on paper appearing in real life.

So being ecstatic that the wonderful Camilla Isley, who I adore, wrote a book about a nice girl next door having Mr. Perfect magically switch from being on paper in being there for real, is for sure an understatement!

Leighton for sure had my sympathy from the start. I could completely understand her and I could relate to her in a few occasions. Let me tell you that while I absolutely enjoy my singledom, at moments it also pains me to see how everyone finds their perfect match, setting up families, and here I am, on my own, devouring books. And everyone wants to match you, or tell you that love will find you when the time is right…

And let’s just not talk about dating apps and disastrous dates!  

So just like Leighton, I have found several perfect boyfriends, in books… And even if at moments they disappoint you, the love is a wonderful one!

And Killian, both in the book as in real life (well, Leighton’s real life that is), just wow! I swooned over him as a billionaire cowboy, getting on Leighton’s nerves, the perfect character for an enemies – to – lovers trope! He gave so many alpha – vibes that I truly wondered why Leighton in her dreams wouldn’t just give in. Because why should you hold in in your dreams???

But there is one thing more delicious than Killian on paper. And that is Killian in real life… That man for sure is every woman’s dream. He finds himself in a world that he doesn’t know, where he doesn’t even exist. Yet he shows entrepreneurship, has a hands – on attitude, but most important, he cares about Leighton, and shows her that they are meant to be together, in one world or another. While he finds himself in a different world, and he has to adapt to it, he never loses himself, and his kindness and protectiveness never wavers…

Sparks in real life for sure are flying around with Leighton and Killian. And I was more often than not angry for the moments that appears to be leading to something and then just… don’t. But I could understand Leighton’s reservations. Because it’s not only the fear that Killian could easily disappear, just as easy as he appeared, leaving Leighton perhaps even more heart – broken than ever. But I could also comprehend that Leighton isn’t sure about Killian’s real feelings, as his feelings for her were literally written for him…

This book is the perfect romance for people who have been dreaming to have their book boyfriend in real life. There are just a few minor points that didn’t allow me to give this book the full five stars, but “only” four (four and ¾ if I could!).

And that is just because Camilla Isley had me feeling afraid in this book… Because just like Leighton, I was afraid that Killian would have disappeared overnight…

And also that perhaps things went too easy at some moments? Yes yes, in a romance anything can happen, but Killian being so quickly successful in his new job, and then gaining papers so easily… Perhaps I would have liked a little more struggles in these instances? Although I had a laugh with the counter favour Leighton and Killian had to deliver in order to get those papers! 😊

But once again Camilla Isley wrote a hilarious, amazing book, with a little bit of magic in it. She made me devour Leighton’s and Killian’s story so quickly, that I even regretted reaching the end! I don’t know how this author manages to write stories that I needed in my life, but I know for sure that no matter what she will be writing next, I will devour it once again, and love it all over!

Can love be found the old – fashioned way?

Synopsis

Late at night when I wander the streets of Paris, my thoughts turn to her… How do I tell her how I feel? Perhaps, I need to show her…

The pretty little streets of Montmartre are abuzz with a rumour. Apparently a mystery matchmaker, known only as ‘Paris Cupid’, has somehow helped the city’s most famous bachelor find love.

But old-fashioned romantic Lilou is staying very quiet. She’d just wanted to set up her best friend, and to get on with her life selling whimsical old love letters, in Paris’s famous St. Ouen market.

She hadn’t imagined her little Paris Cupid project could ever have attracted so many people looking for true, heartfelt romance. Though the truth is that Lilou adores helping people find the right person. Even if her own love life is nothing short of disastrous.

But then a message arrives. And it’s just for her. Someone is in love with her. Someone who knows her secret. But they’re keeping their own identity secret too… Could it be from cheerful, talkative, flame-haired Felix? Or quiet, beautifully handsome Benoit? Or even Pascale – who drives Lilou mad every day?

After so long of helping others find their soulmate, is it time for Lilou to find love of her own in Paris herself?

My review

Lilou is a real romantic. But being tired of the avalanche of dating apps, and the current way of finding love, she started her own project. It started as wanting her best friend to find love, and now Paris Cupid has become a real success. A success that even made Parisian most famous bachelor find love, and he is spreading the word! Now not only there are more people trying to find love through Paris Cupid, but there are also people trying to discover who Cupid may be. And that is something Lilou doesn’t want to be in the open… Because it’s not about her, but about finding love. And then Lilou herself starts receiving messages of love, but without telling her who he is. And thus Lilou now has to figure out who of the St. Ouen market is professing his love to her…

Right from the start this book has ‘romance’ written all over it. Obviously there is the setting, Paris must be one of the most romantic places in the world. Then there is Lilou, who sells old letters at the market. And not just any kind of letters, she finds treasures in old love letters. And then of course the job Lilou has beside her St. Ouen Market job… being Paris Cupid, helping people finding love…

Having been on a few dating apps myself, and deleting them too, I found it so refreshing to see how Lilou makes people find love. It is endearing to have actually write letters, post them and wait for a reply. It requires so much more effort then just writing a short message, and it for sure removes the risk of receiving some nice picture while on the search for that perfect match! 😊

Now, I also have to admit, that I didn’t truly understand how Lilou’s letter selling business could work. But that is purely on me, because I don’t think I would like to spend money on a letter for someone else, no matter how old or precious that letter may be. But I suppose that if there is a market for everything, why shouldn’t there be one for old letters?

How could you not like Lilou? She is a real romantic at heart, and is so kind – hearted that she wants her friends to find love. Not just any kind of love, but the perfect match. I loved it how she came up with the idea for Paris Cupid, and I could also understand why she only confided in one person about it. She doesn’t care about making a name about herself, she wants love to prevail. Just shows once again what a kind and caring person she is. She wants love, not fame or fortune.

And it warmed my heart to see how she is being wooed herself, by receiving mysterious love messages herself. For a person that wants her loved ones to find love, it’s only right that Lilou herself finds love!

I have to admit, while Lilou herself doesn’t know who the secret messenger is, I had a good idea who it would be. And I wasn’t disappointed by the final revelation, on the contrary, I found it even super sweet to read how the mysterious writer has come up with the perfect great gesture!

This book somehow made me believe once again in love. And that sometimes old-fashioned ways to find it are and will always be a right way to find love. I can only imagine the thrill in opening a letter, getting to know someone better and fall in love with the words on paper, and not let you guide by the looks of someone.

Perhaps we should all grab more our pens and write letters to our loved ones. And I am not only talking about love interests, but also to our friends and family. Because is there something more real and touching than reading a letter where a lot of effort has been put in? And letters for sure will last much longer than a mail or a message on your phone…

I truly enjoyed reading this story, showing us not only the power of love, but also the power of words! And all this in a wonderful, even magical setting, with beautiful characters that show us love, friendship and sense of community!

When your life needs a change, summer is what it needs

Synopsis

Two people. Two pasts. One summer to fall in love.

Caleb is a former professional surfer trying to build his life after a career-ending accident.

Lindy has moved to Loor island to start a new life, combing the shores for sea glass to weave into jewelry.

When the two meet, sparks fly – but not the good kind. Then they discover they’re neighbours, and they’re stuck with each other for one, long summer.

As they slowly learn to trust each other, and find themselves sharing their stories that brought them to Loor, their dislike begins to unravel into friendship, then maybe something more.

But will the weight of their pasts ruin their chance of a future?

My review

Needing a change in her life, Lindy has moved to Loor Island. While the accepted job as a pet sitter isn’t exactly what she thought it would be, she is ready to give it her all. And of course, she hopes that all the sea glass she finds on the island can be integrated in jewellery. But already upon her first arrival, Lindy learns that the island way of life is very different to the life she has known. And her neighbour, former professional surfer, Caleb, is someone Lindy just cannot read… Nevertheless, Caleb is there when needed, forced or not by his grandmother Betty, who is a force to be reckoned with. As summer passes by, Lindy and Caleb grow closer, but with both having a past haunting them, is one summer enough to chase those dark clouds away?

Most of the times, I immediately like the main character(s) of a story. there is something I can relate with them, seeing things of myself in them or even them having the kind of life I always dreamed of. But with Lindy, I have to admit, that wasn’t the case.

I understand it that perhaps you don’t have the job you dreamed of, or that at that same job you aren’t as respected as you should be. For sure I have been in a likewise situation, where I didn’t feel the passion for my job anymore. But it never stopped me from doing my job good. And it bothered me to see how distracted Lindy was, and how easily her thoughts were wandering off, even when her boss was talking to her.

And there is her relationship with Max, which I just didn’t understand. Yes, everyone can have their hobby or passion. But in a couple, isn’t it also to have a hobby or passion in common? Or at least there is a right amount of balance? Because with Lindy and her boyfriend – at – the – start – of – the – book, it felt to me like Lindy was doing a lot for him, but the actions weren’t reciprocated?

On the other hand, who am I to comment on someone else’s relationship, me, the single – for – life? 😊

And when that relationship stranded, it for sure wasn’t healthy to see how Lindy kept checking online what was going on!

But on the other hand, I also admired her. Because Lindy understood that something had to change, and she bravely decides to make the move to Loor Island.

Not only did I admire her choice, but I also admired her courage. Because let there be one thing clear, if I discovered what the job truly entails, I would be running away, as fast as possible!

I have to say though, I had several laughs at poor Lindy’s sake… the misunderstandings she has, or how she finds herself in situations she didn’t ask for, well, as a reader it was the best! 😊

Yet it’s also a fact that Lindy finds her real self on the island, and she finds herself understanding what it means to be part of a community, if she wants it or not.

Even if her first encounter with Caleb wasn’t a positive one, it’s clear that they both are people with serious baggage. And that perhaps meeting each other, is what they both need in order to be able to move on.

While initially reluctantly, Caleb finds himself being helping Lindy, and that creates a bond that they cannot keep on ignoring.

With two people with demons, I always like to see the evolution in their characters. Things never start on a great note, but slowly both main characters are able to let down their guards, even if sometimes it needs some well-intended interferences. Yet the loveliness of this book is how the demons can be chased away, and that the right people will just get you. But also that distance can put a lot in perspective, and can make you see what you weren’t able to see before.

And that obviously, one summer can make a huge difference, and that one summer can bring so much in your life, and it can make you feel more at home and at ease than you could ever imagine.

Always have the eyes on the prize, but what is the prize?

Synopsis

When Robin finds out she’s going on a work trip to Italy she can’t wait for a week away in the sunshine, away from the daily grind. So what if there’s a client pitch to do while they’re there? The thing Robin is most excited about is the chance to show her work crush, James, what she’s really like outside of work, and divert his attention from Liz, her work rival.

To make things even better, Robin realises that the town they’re going to in Italy is the same place that her childhood penpal, Andrea is from. So it’s the perfect time to re-connect and finally meet her old friend over some delicious Italian food and wine (between work obviously…) But when Andrea doesn’t turn out to be the person Robin thought, things get a little complicated…

So it’s set to be a week of all sun and games… Until someone falls in love of course!

A friends-to-lovers, only-one-bed, fake dating romance from million-copy bestseller Portia MacIntosh.

My review

Robin has had a crush on her colleague James for a long time, but not only he never showed any interest, but she is also in competition for his affections with her constant rival Liz. And Liz is not only her rival in love, but also at work. They couldn’t be more different or have different views on how to make the perfect advertisement for their clients. So when for a client pitch, they all have to head of to Italy, Robin sees this as the opportunity of a lifetime. Because now she can show James what the real Robin is like. And when she discovers that they are going to stay at the same place her old childhood penpal Andrea lives, she hopes she can find her friend, meet up and rekindle their friendship. Between food, wine and work, Robin not only has the shock of her life when Andrea doesn’t appear to be what she thought, but also that her fight for affection isn’t turning out as planned…

Let’s start with stating the obvious, that I was over the moon with this new story from an author that I love. To make it more amazing, I loved it how it’s taking place in Italy. Could the author make this reader happier? I don’t think so!

For so many reasons, I could relate with Robin. She is just a regular girl, not someone extremely extraordinary. She is just like us, a normal young woman, doing her best at her job. And having a (perhaps not so) secret crush on her colleague James.

There is absolutely nothing wrong with being normal, so I got angry at her place with all the not so subtle digs at her.

If her colleagues and boss cannot see how amazing Robin is as a person, it’s absolutely their loss!

At the start of the book, I was hoping that at least James would rather quickly start to see what a treasure Robin truly is. But the more the story evolved, the more I started to dislike James and his behaviour, and I found myself cheering for a complete different ending.

Because as a real Italian, I had a real good idea what the shocking discovery would be. And I loved it to read how that discovery just was applicable in both directions! 😊

I found it heart – warming that, once the shock passed, Robin and Andrea just clicked in real life just like they clicked on paper. Despite their differences, not only linguistical ones, it shows that real friendship is strong enough to withstand each difference. Even years apart cannot break up what was meant to be solid.

Now, of course there had to be found a way to have Andrea more in the story than just a fleeting meeting with Robin. And thus the misunderstandings, and deceptions made with the right intentions start. And thus the great fun for us as readers also start!

Deceit is never good, but in this case, why not? I loved reading how Andrea was willing to help Robin out, not only with translations, but also making her understand what the Italian life truly is about. And it was sweet to see how Robin was willing to also help Andrea out, to release the pression.

But with their deceit, while for us it’s crystal-clear, for both the characters it’s difficult to understand what is still deceit and what is reality and honesty…

I absolutely devoured this book, had several laughs and many many swoons. But I also learned a few things about how marketing works, and how difficult it can be to find the perfect pitch. Some times you nail it, and sometimes you just don’t. And with an Italian brand, with their focus on its ‘Italianity’, it cannot be easy to put that feeling in a pitch. And I loved it how Robin tried to understand what that Italianity means, and how she can put it to use. The contrast with Liz’s idea couldn’t be bigger, but also shows that Robin in the end just got it.

There is one thing that truly put a smile on my face while reading, and even making me hungry, was the Italian client. Come A Casa is a real brand in Belgium, and it makes, just like in the book, Mediterranean ready meals. So whenever the name came up, I was longing for lasagna, and had their tune in my head! 😊

Portia MacIntosh has written amazing books in the past, always making me smile and laugh at loud. But this book, quickly had me all loved up, in many different ways. And for so many different reasons, this may be my favourite one for the moment!!!

You’re never too old for an adventure!

Synopsis

It’s never too late to sail a new course…

When retired Jill Parker wins an all-expenses paid Mediterranean cruise for two she is thrilled! At 63 life in retirement has got a little bit bland for Jill and this might be just the holiday she and husband Eddy need to get the sparks back in their marriage.

But when Eddy admits he would much prefer to build his patio and look through the latest DIY magazine, Jill is left with only one other option – her sister Diana.

Diana has become rather reclusive since her husband, Caspar died, but perhaps this is the push she needs to bring some excitement back into her life, too?

Could this trip be just what both sisters need to reconnect and chart a new path for their futures?

Excited to be exploring new horizons and catching up, the sisters soon discover that not everything is smooth sailing on board. And as they enjoy cocktails together at sundown, they discover that they are both actually a little all at sea…

Praise for Maddie Please:

‘Sea, sunshine, romance and fabulous characters; Maddie’s light touch and sense of fun will lift your spirits!’ Bestselling author Judy Leigh

‘Witty, warm and simply wonderful.’ Bestselling author Sarah Bennett

‘For a book that’s as cheering and restorative as a long lunch with your very best friend, Maddie Please is the author you need to know!’ Bestselling author Chris Manby

‘Genuine and life-affirming…a wonderful, light-hearted novel about how it is never too late to find happiness.’ Bestselling author Kitty Wilson

My review

When Jill picks up the phone, she never expected to be the winner of an all – expenses paid mediterranean cruise for two. As her husband Eddy is more eager to work on their patio, and he suggests to take Jill’s sister Diana with her, Jill thinks it’s a great idea. Especially as Diana has become rather reclusive after becoming a widow. Once boarded, it’s clear that everyone remembers Diana’s husband Caspar, as he has been the captain on several cruises. And that also plays in the sisters’ advantage as now everyone wants to please Caspar’s wife. But on the trip Diana realises that there is more to her than just ‘being Caspar’s wife’ and she even opens up to Jill, about how her marriage has been. With the two sisters reconnecting, they also start to enjoy the experience of a lifetime. An experience that neither of them will ever forget, even after having put their feet back on solid ground, for more than just one reason.

I always enjoy reading stories about people older than myself, going on adventures I would like to do myself. I know, being in my thirties means I can do so many of them, but while I still have to find the courage to go on such adventures, I enjoy reading about them.

The book already starts on a hilarious note, at least for me, as Jill finds herself winning a cruise without even trying! Just Jill being Jill is enough for the whole adventure to start.

Now, even if I knew beforehand that it would be a journey with the two sisters, I was a bit disappointed in Eddy, because who on earth would prefer to work on their patio instead of going on an all – paid holiday? That made me fear that there was something wrong in the marriage of Jill and Eddy. But I also knew that if that were to be the case, the situation would be mentioned somewhere during the cruise.

Eddy not going, meant luckily for us that Diana enters the scene. Being single, in my thirties, I cannot even imagine how it feels to be a widow. But Diana truly is affected by losing er husband, and it pained me to see how lonely and reclusive Diana has become.

It was also clear rather quickly that her being married to Caspar the real Diana somehow got lost.

It was lovely to see the sibling reconnecting, even at ‘their age’. While I am still now very close with my own brother, I know that not all siblings have the same relationship, but also that their own lives can take a different direction. But that doesn’t mean that there isn’t any love anymore.

And sibling together on a holiday, well, that for sure is a recipe for many adventures! 😊

Jill and Diana are for sure very different, and see things differently. But the two causing havoc (involuntary most of the times!) for sure put several smiles on my face.

And being ‘limited’ on a cruise ship together (with the exclusion of their excursions), is also the perfect chance for the sisters to get closer again, and open up to each other about their lives and what happens behind closed doors.

Because especially in Diana’s case, she doesn’t always showed and shows what turmoil she was and is in.

In that matter, it was great to see the real Diana resurface again, casting away the cloak of ‘just being Caspar’s wife’, but being the magnificent woman she is. And seeing her opening up, doing even things that shocked me (in a good way!) was amazing!

I truly enjoyed reading this book, about two women finding each other again, ready for a new adventure, bringing many insights not only in their own lives, but also in each other’s lives. And I liked how even on a cruise ship you can meet people that in one way or another can change your life. But mostly I liked how age truly is just a number, and that no one is ever too old to have an adventure!

Maddie Please may have written about people twice my age, but I never felt that age difference. She ‘just’ wrote a story about siblings on a journey together, bringing them together again and have the experience of a lifetime, having gained many insights when they put their feet back on shore once again!

Can a second chance stand a chance?

Synopsis

Welcome to Ivy Falls

In the gorgeous small town of Ivy Falls, Torran is putting all her passion into building her new career in house restoration, trying desperately to help the town keep its identity and charm. She has no time for love but when her childhood sweetheart, Beck, comes back to town and outbids her on her dream house at auction, sparks fly. This man broke her heart. Can she ever trust him again?

For Beck, Ivy Falls means trauma and loss. He knows his sudden departure hurt Torran badly but there are things she doesn’t know. He never intended to return to Ivy Falls so why is he there, bidding on his childhood home? His feelings for Torran are as strong as ever but Torran means Ivy Falls and Beck can’t go back there. Can he find a way to heal his past and find his future?

A romantic, uplifting and captivating read set in small-town America, perfect for fans of the Virgin River series and Colleen Hoover.

My review

Torran has one passion in life, and that is restoring houses without letting the place lose its heart and soul. But the people in Ivy Falls are wary of her, after an online video shows her screaming and shouting about the place. But if there is one way to show the community of her honest intentions, it’s Torran working on the dream house and restore it’s grandeur. If only it weren’t that she’s being outbid at the auction. To make it even worse, she loses the house of her dreams to the man that broke her heart, Beck. Beck doesn’t understand himself why he made an offer on the house. Of course, it’s the house where he grew up in, but Ivy Falls holds so many painful memories, he prefers to stay away from it as far as possible. However, owning his childhood home again, and the works needed is much more than he thought, there is only one person up to the challenge: the woman whose heart he broke years ago…

What is it about our childhood homes that somehow have a grip on us? A house is only a building, so it shouldn’t be that important. But as it’s the place where so many memories have been made, good ones and bad ones, it makes sense that we keep that place close to our hearts.

And what is it about living in a town with people that think badly about you, because of a viral video at your worst? It’s always the people that know you the longest that can make you feel at your worst. And no matter how hard you try, you are never truly free of the gossip and talking behind your back. To make things even worse, in that same town, the restrained relationship with your father doesn’t help with him being the mayor of that same town…

As you can see, Torran isn’t finding herself in the best of situations at the start of this book. And then I haven’t talked yet about the heartbreak she had to face with losing her mother, scarring her emotionally…

And that other heartbreak, years ago, caused by the man that now took her dream away…

For so many reasons my heart went out to Torran, as she is fighting several ferocious demons all at the same time. It’s not an easy life Torran has, as she is also constantly worried about her sister.

But it’s also that same sister who needs Torran’s support, that is there to support Torran through the most difficult moment. There is only one person that can understand what Torran is going through and that is Tessa…

But I also admired Torran, as she knowns what she wants, and she doesn’t easily give up. At moments that can be seen as a stubbornness, but most of the times that was exactly Torran’s strength.

And even if I don’t have a clue about renovating/ restoring houses, I liked it how Torran is adamant on not losing the heart and soul of a place. She wants to keep any house as genuine, original as possible, even if that is not always the easiest option.

If we would read the story from only Torran’s point of view, it would be so easy to have an instant dislike for Beck. Because the way he broke up things with her, were just not nice (being polite here 😊).

But as we see also his side of the story, how could I possible dislike him for just any reason? Because what he has been through at a younger age, the pain he had to endure and the struggles he is still having, can you blame him for any of his actions? Even if he make wrong choices, they were made out of pain, self-preservation and fear…

I could completely understand why he never wanted to return to Ivy Falls, but I could also comprehend the pull the place still has on him…

Getting to know Beck better, was a case of breaking my heart. Beck has been through so much, has been trying and is still trying to do the right thing. And he is struggling with protecting his sister, who went on a downward spiral.

Beck has been broken in the past and that made him keep his distance from everything and everyone.

But when has the heart ever listened to the mind? Never, right? So in that aspect it was initially funny and later on sweet to see how sparks still fly around Torran and Beck. With their own and shared past, it couldn’t be a walk in the park, as Torran is wary of him, and Beck is still afraid to open up (his heart) completely…

Both character have to go through a lot in this book. They have to learn to trust, to forgive and to listen. It’s a case of trail and error, as their growth doesn’t come easy. And while for sure this is a love story, this is also a story about that growth, how that things can change and how people can keep on surprising you, in a good way. Putting your trust in someone isn’t easy, but putting your trust and love in the right person, can be so rewarding… And I am not only talking about Torran and Beck, but I am talking about every character appearing in this wonderful, heart – warming yet also heart – breaking story!

When a reality show matches you with not the man you want, but the man that broke you…

Synopsis

In this game of hearts, the stakes have never been higher…

Molly Harris is used to being left. Parents, boyfriends – she’s the queen of rejection. Her latest boyfriend, gym-fanatic Duncan, dumps her to go on reality dating show The One which sets up hot singletons to date for four weeks before meeting at the altar to say, ‘I do’.

But Duncan was the one who picked Molly up and put her back together the last time her heart got broken, so, determined not to let ‘The One’ get away, she follows Duncan onto the show. If she can prove that they’re meant to be, she might just get the happily ever after of her dreams…

But on the first day of filming, another reminder of her painful history walks into Happily Ever After Towers: Ben Knight, her it’s-not-you-it’s-me heartbreaker. The one she loved before Duncan.

In four weeks’ time, who will she meet at the altar? Duncan, the first person who ever made her feel loved, or Ben, the first person who made her feel?

My review

Molly Harris is deeply in love with her boyfriend Duncan. He is the one that helped her to get over her last heartbreak. She for sure can envision their future together, but is left flabbergasted when Duncan breaks up with her instead.  Not because he doesn’t love her, but because he has the opportunity of a lifetime to participate on a reality dating show. And obviously being on television is the perfect way to boost his ego and his own brand.Not wanting to lose Duncan, even if their break – up is temporarily, Molly decides to take part in the same reality show. But instead of being matched to Duncan, she is matched with Ben, the man that broke her heart previously.With the grand finale of the show being to get married to The One, Molly now has to decide where her future lays. With the man that mended her heart and made her feel loved, or with the man that broke her heart but made her feel?

Reality dating shows are absolutely my guilty pleasure. And as the Dutch versions of Married at First Dates, First Dates etc are rather ‘tame’, I watch the UK and Australian versions for more popcorn – moments.

So having an author that I love, writing a book where such show is taking centre stage, of course I have to read it!

Now, I have to say that at the start of the story Molly rather clingy. It felt like Molly would do anything to not lose Duncan, even changing her eating habits and do more work – outs. If you want to do such things for yourself, absolutely no problem, but for a man? No, a man that truly loves you, accepts you just the way you are.

But the better I got to know Molly, the more I started to understand her and her fear of being abandoned. Her background is a sad one, especially learning how devastated she was after Ben broke her heart in an unexpected and terrible way, using the cliché of ‘it’s not you, it’s me’.

While I comprehended her a little bit better the more the story evolved, I couldn’t agree wit her choice of participating too on the reality show. If a man dismisses you so easily, is he truly the man for you?

On top of that, I truly didn’t like Duncan… not only because he wanted to change Molly into the perfect woman for him, but also because what kind of man breaks up with the woman he claims to love for the sake of fame and fortune???

And his behaviour for sure doesn’t get any better during the show, on the contrary! I felt like he was betting on two horses at the same time. I couldn’t understand what Molly could possibly see in a man like that!

But of course, Ben doesn’t make the best first impression either! He just participates on the show doing a favour to his sister, who actually works on the show.

It’s clear from the start that he is carrying around a big burden, a heavy weight on his shoulders. He has been burnt by love in the past, and he has been through a rather though time. And that made him just push love away.

And with the revelations of his hurt past, made me understand him so much better. While I still don’t agree with some of his choices back then, I could see where he was coming from. And it was understandable why he broke Molly’s heart, because it really wasn’t Molly, it was him.

Obviously, as a bystander it was just hilarious to see how Molly and Ben are being matched, despite Molly’s attempts to be matched with Duncan.

But as a reader, we know both sides of their story, and I just couldn’t wait to have all the cards on the table.

It’s clear that there is still something between Molly and Ben, but in their time apart, they also have moved on in a way. But we also see that they are also both still afraid to try to understand what their hearts are trying to tell them.

I for sure had several laughs while reading. The challenges were hilarious, the rivalry was palpable but there was also room for connections, not only between the matches but between the contestants too.

In this story we see how the past can affect someone. How it can make you scared of meeting someone, or scared of losing someone. We also see how we have to decipher what we truly feel and what the right kind of love feels like. Is it to love because we feel loved? Or is it love because we

*feel – feel*? It’s not easy to understand our own feelings, and giving in to those feelings can be scary.

But for the right person, it’s only right to be courageous. And that courage will only be more rewarding afterwards!

It was a truly delightful story to read, with so many hilarious bits, but with many heartfelt moments too! this for sure is an author that never disappoints!

Giveaway!

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The adventures love makes us undertake

Synopsis

There may be trouble ahead…

Just when Daisy thought she had canal life understood, Theo, her primary go-to for all of her boating questions has left Wildflower Lock, not to mention the budding romance that has been steadily growing.

Not one to sit and wallow, Daisy takes matters into her own hands. Who said long-distance relationships can’t work?

With the help of trusted friend Yvonne, Daisy takes the September Rose on a round trip to surprise her new boyfriend. The best thing about a home on the water? You can go anywhere!

But perhaps leaving the serenity of Wildflower Lock wasn’t the best idea. Daisy hates keeping secrets from Theo, and she’s not the only one…

Full of fun, friendship, laughter and sweet romance, Blue Skies over Wildflower Lock will delight readers who love Cressida McLaughlin, Heidi Swain and Holly Martin

Praise for Hannah Lynn:

‘Heartfelt and engrossing – you’ll fall in love with Wildflower Lock.’ Fay Keenan

‘A delightful, well written tale, full of wonderful characters in a charming setting. I loved it!’ Katie Fforde

‘Another wonderful adventure with Daisy and Theo! … Its happy but realistic, swoony but down to earth, and downright delightful.’ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reader Review

‘A thoroughly good read, very entertaining and a series I hope will continue. Five sparkling stars and my recommendation.’ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reader Review

‘I love how the setting of the book and the characters transport you to a whole new world and made me wish I was living Daisy’s life ‘ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reader Review

‘This is a really beautiful cosy read. I found the location and the houseboat to be stunning … The characters where fantastic I honestly loved them all. ‘ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reader Review

My review

Daisy never expected to enjoy canal life as much as she does when she inherited the September Rose. And she didn’t even expect to find love, in the shape of Theo. But even if things are going well for Daisy, Theo leaving Wildflower Lock for a job has left Daisy with many questions. Will their love stand the distance? And is it love, as those words haven’ been spoken out loud yet? As Daisy isn’t one to just sit and wallow, she decides to take matter in her own hand, and wants to take the September Rose on a round trip, and surprise Theo with a visit. Together with her new friend and neighbour Yvonne, Daisy is ready for a whole new adventure. But where will that adventure end? And how?

I have truly enjoyed reading the journey Daisy has been through. Not only from inheriting the September Rose, but also what has happened ever since. Not all has been good things, but most of them have been. And with her living on the Rose, also put new people on her path, people that stole pieces of her heart.

At the end of the previous book, I found it a bit sad that Theo would be leaving. But I also understand that it was a commitment he had made, and he didn’t want to walk away from it. Only shows the kind of person that Theo is…

And at the start of this book, I had every possible finger and toe crossed, hoping that Daisy and Theo would show me that their love was a very strong one.

However,… (and this is the good kind over ‘however’ 😊) while daisy starts her adventure to surprise Theo, the journey she is having is a personal one. While in the waters, we see Daisy going through several things, adding on her growth that she has been doing since the start of the whole series.

I have to admit, out of love I would do many things. But I don’t think I would have the courage to take the September Rose out in the waters like Daisy does. Even if she can rely on Yvonne, the sense of responsibility and fear of doing something wrong, no way José! 😊

Of course, not everything runs smoothly, and Daisy and Yvonne find themselves in some peculiar situations. Some of those situations even made my heart skip a beat out of terror.

Only shows to never underestimate the possible difficulties that can take place!

Daisy and Yvonne also meet new characters. While one character shows himself being rather clingy and persistent, I couldn’t stop myself from taking an instant liking! But also the opposite happened with another character, as I was very wary and distrusting.

It was sweet to see how Daisy and Yvonne are getting closer thanks to this adventure. And with Yvonne have knowing Daisy’s father, Daisy has the chance to get closer to the man she never knew and has been absent in her life.

It warmed my heart to see how Daisy manages to find a connection with the man that isn’t here anymore…

Now, it isn’t that Theo is completely absent in this story, there are flying visits and many calls between the couple. And it was great to see that despite the distance, Theo is still the amazing man we have get to know he is.

Of course, as Daisy is keeping her journey a surprise from Theo, we see a Daisy ‘forced’ to lie to the man she loves. While we know why she is keeping things from Theo, it’s clear that Theo isn’t an idiot and he knows that something is off… It made me afraid that the secrets and the lies would be the end of the couple that has worked so hard on getting where they are now.

I truly enjoyed reading this new chapter in Daisy’s life on the September Rose because like I said, we see so much growth in Daisy. The adventure starts as a token of her love for Theo, but it’s clear that it’s more about Daisy herself, and her inner demons, than surprising Theo.

And then there is so much love in this book. Not only the love between Daisy and Theo, but also the love between friends, family and even love for a person that you haven’t even ever met…