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

Synopsis

A summer to remember…

A love to last a lifetime…

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

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

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

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

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

My review

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Synopsis

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

Pemberley Presents…

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

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

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

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

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

My review

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Family, in any form, is what truly counts

Synopsis

A tragic loss…

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

A precious gift…

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

A family made of friends?

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

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

My review

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Unfortunately, that even in 2024 is still a reality…

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

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

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

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

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

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

Synopsis

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

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

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

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

Two friends.

Five days.

No chance of another broken heart.

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

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

My review

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

When helping out is the perfect way to escape

Synopsis

Escape to chic and glamorous Paris!

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

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

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

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

My review

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Synopsis

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

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

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

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

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

My review

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

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

And once again, she absolutely delivered!

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

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

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

Now, back to Greta! 🙂

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

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

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

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

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

Second chances but at what?

Synopsis

Divorced, frustrated by her daughter’s matchmaking, and resigned to staying happily single, Liz Phillips thinks she has her life all figured out… until she meets Finn Hunter.

Having moved to Pelican Crossing twelve months earlier to support his daughter after a family tragedy, Finn finds himself juggling family obligations and a demanding job as the editor of the local paper. He has little time for romance.

When Liz and Finn’s paths cross, there’s an undeniable spark between them. They quickly form a connection which neither of them anticipates.

Amidst the whirlwind of their relationship, a secret from Liz’s past resurfaces, threatening the closeness she shares with her daughters. Having Finn to lean on is a godsend, but Finn is concealing a secret of his own. A secret that once revealed could undermine the trust and understanding they share and destroy any chance of a future together.

Can Liz find her happy ending or is she destined to face the future with only her family for company?

My review

Liz Philips knows that her two daughters have her best interest at heart with their matchmaking skills. But as she is already divorced, she isn’t looking for love at all. Life is already difficult enough, a relationship is the last thing Liz needs or wants. Until the moment she meets Finn Hunter, editor of the local paper. While the attraction is absolutely mutual, also Finn’s focus is on his own family. Because he made the move a year ago, to be closer to his daughter and grandson after tragedy struck them. Yet the more time Liz and Finn spend together, the more it feels like they both have a second chance at love. But Liz has a secret about her past that suddenly resurfaces, jeopardizing the relationship with her daughters, and even more. And then it appears that Finn also is have been keeping secrets from Liz, secrets that can destroy just everything they have been slowly building in Pelican Crossing…

The moment I returned to Pelican Crossing, I felt myself feeling all warm and cosy, as I knew I would be loving another wonderful story about second chances at love, no matter what age.

Once again, while reading the book, I never felt the age gap between the characters and myself. Of course there are things that only can take place with personas that have life experience that comes with age, but at the same time, I loved it to read about characters that are still young at heart!

I can only attempt to imagine how it feels when your children leave home and suddenly you are on your own. As a parent, you always put your children first, and even when they are adults, the worrying never. Speaking with experience here, as I-my own mother is like that 😊

But having put your own life on hold, it’s difficult to start living again.

Liz is exactly in that position, as both her daughters are out of the house, living their own lives at their best. It’s obvious that Liz is a loving mother, as she is still worried about the two young women, even if they are able to run their own affairs without problems.

And it was funny to see the roles reversed, as Liz’s daughters are trying to not only try to play matchmaker, but also letting her experience new things, even if they are beyond Liz her comfort zone! And it was also funny to see Liz wanting to please her daughters, yet also want to stand her ground and doesn’t want her two girls meddling in her own life!

How is it that the more adamant you are that you don’t need someone, that that is the exact moment that you meet someone? Because the more Liz is sure that she doesn’t want or need a relationship, sparks start to fly around her and Finn.

The pair are both claiming the same thing, they aren’t looking for a relationship, as their own families are the number one priority. Yet I found it utterly sweet to see how both have a hug smile on their faces when they meet up, coincidentally or not. And I loved to see their relationship evolve to something deeper, even if they aren’t aware of it at all!

Now, it may seem an easy out, claiming that your family needs you and you don’t have time for love. But for once, in this book, that is totally the case!

I have to admit, Maggie Christensen left me a bit shocked with the revelation of Liz’s secret, as I didn’t see it coming, while I normally have a hunch of what the secret could be.

It broke my heart to read what she has been through in the past, but at the same time, it also warmed my heart to see how things are falling into place in the present. Only to be feeling sad again to see how telling the secret is causing a huge rift between Liz and her youngest…

But if there is one more devastating story, it for sure is Finn’s. Well, to be more specific, what his daughter and grandson have been through. It’s terrible to lose someone in general, but what happened to Adele’s husband and Sandy’s dad, just crushing…

I admired Finn as he had no doubt to make the move to Pelican Crossing to be with his loved ones, and support them in any possible way. It’s clear that the trauma is still very present, and as a loving father and Grandy, he wants to everything in his powers to put back a smile on Adele’s and Sandy’s face.

Liz and Finn are the perfect example of parents that never stop loving or caring about their children and family… they even put their own happiness on hold for them. And while I understood them, it was also a bit frustrating, as they both deserve their own moments of happiness!

In this book, we see how secrets, withheld for the rights reasons, can affect any kind of relationship. And perhaps Finn’s secret was as shocking as Liz’s long – kept secret, we see how it shifts the trust. It can break what has been building slowly.

But, we also see how stubbornness and hurt can cloud over the ability of making the right choice or decision.

I once again truly enjoyed a story by the hand of Maggie Christensen, showing us that age is just a number, and that everyone, how young or ‘old’ they may be, deserve a shot at love. But it’s also a wonderful story about family, fresh starts, redemption and just pure love, whatever kind of love that is!  

The things we do for our loved ones, or even pretend to be doing…

Synopsis

Sometimes, you have to fake it until you make it…

Ros is too busy for a boyfriend; between work and looking after her poorly father, there’s no time left for a relationship. But when she overhears her dad’s dying wish is for her to find love, Ros is determined to make it happen – or at least, make it look like it has.

Enter Cameron, a struggling mature student with a mountain of debt but a zest for life.

Ros, driven by love for her ailing dad, reluctantly agrees to the simple business transaction: paying Cameron to play the role of her boyfriend. Ros meticulously plans their fake relationship – but when Cameron decides to go off-script, chaos ensues.

As Ros and Cameron navigate the ups and downs of their faux romance, their differences drive each other crazy. But they may just need each other more than they think…

My review

Ros and Darla are best friends, even if they are complete opposites. While Ros lives by her flip charts, and doesn’t take any risks at all, Darla goes with the flow, hopping from one job assignment to another. But that is also thanks to her ex, The Wanker, who brought Darla in an awkward position, making her lie to her own parents…But also Ros finds herself lying to her own father. As his health is deteriorating, his greatest worry is that when the time comes, Ros will be on her own. Thus Ros, wanting to see her father happy and unworried, she and Darla come up with the perfect plan: to pay someone to be her boyfriend for the time being. Ros being Ros, plans everything to perfection, but Cameron, the man playing the boyfriend – part, quickly starts to go unscripted, making Ros freaking out the longer their pretence is going on. Meanwhile Darla’s latest job as a pet sitter turns out to be more challenging than expected. And the neighbour of her temporarily residence is only added more fuel to her frustrations…

Often in books we read how parents would do anything for their children. But often the feelings are reciprocated, and children would do anything for the happiness of their parents. Well, mostly adult children would, as I know for sure that adolescents have a mind of their own 😊

And in this book, we see how Ros would do anything for her dad… Her dad means the world to her, and his illness broke her heart. She enjoys every moment she has with Barry, even if she never stops worrying about him.

For years it has been just Barry and Ros, bringing father and daughter even closer. The love between the two is just so palpable…

While lying to your loved ones is never a good idea, I couldn’t blame Ros in her case… if with such a small white lie, she could put a smile on her father’s face, and it would make him stop worrying about her, why not?

Now, of course I truly liked Ros for that, but I have to admit, in other aspects, Ros would be occasionally frustrating me. Not that she is a bad person, but she keeps just everyone at distance. Once again, in one way I could understand her. Because her mother leaving Barry and Ros behind, why wouldn’t Ros have commitment issues? But on the other hand, she keeps everyone at such a huge distance… I know that you cannot be friends with every one of your colleagues, but if I wouldn’t have any friends at my work, interact with any of them, I would go totally crazy…

But back to the story… Luckily Ros has a great friend in Darla. Even in friendships, the rule that opposites attract is applicable. And it’s thanks to Darla that the perfect plan for Barry’s happiness come up. And that in the shape of Cameron.

Initially I thought there was a big age gap between the two, as Cameron is a student while Ros is already building a career. So I was happy to read that there was a logical explanation for it, not turning it into something creepy! 😊

Just like with Darla, Cameron is Ros’s complete opposite. He doesn’t play by Ros her rules, and it was hilarious and sweet at the same time!

Ros’s character would force her to plan everything beforehand, playing safe in every possible aspect. And Cameron not following any of her plans or rules, was the best thing that could happen to Ros!

We see obviously Ros getting frustrating and angry over Cameron’s behaviour, but we also see the influence Cameron has over Ros. And how well he fits in Ros’s life, and how he gets everyone’s approval, Barry’s and Gazza’s included!

Of course their (fake) relationship is one filled with trial and error, but the evolution of that relationship was just wonderful to read!

And then there is Darla… she is the kind of friend that will always have your back. But her life is in turmoil, as her ex – boyfriend for sure pulled a number on her and leaving her in a financial disaster…

It saddened me to read how someone that is supposed to love you, to be your partner can deceive you and abandon you when the net is closing in… With Darla only having two option, defeat or fight back, I was proud of her choosing the latter, even if she also was lying to her parents, for not showing how bad things are going…

But that also means that Darla has to take several jobs to pay of the debts. Bringing her in the situation she finds herself in, a pet – sitting job that isn’t exactly turning out to be what she thought it would be!

And that is for the readers the best thing! Because her struggling is not only with the animals, but brings her clashing several times with her neighbour Elliott.

But it’s in time of need that you see one’s real character. And while he may seem grumpy, and mock Darla, Elliott delivers when Darla needs help.

I found this a hilarious but at the same time a heart – warming book. We do not only see children wanting to protect their parents and not let them worry about their offspring. But we also see how two lovely characters are trying to find a way in their lives, messed ones or not. We see real friendship, but we also see how meeting a person can make you evolve, mature and see things in a different perspective.

This book is filled with love, strength, courage and friendship. This was absolutely an amazing story written by a wonderful author!

When you manifest your perfect man, and then you get…

Synopsis

Willow asks the universe to find her The One, but will she recognise him when he appears?

When Willow moved back to the village she grew up in for a new start, she was ready for a new way of life too. Now happily settled in her dream cottage with her beloved dog Spud, Willow enjoys the peace and sense of community country living brings.

That is until her quiet is shattered by her new neighbour. Sure brooding Henry Darcy, or Doctor Dishy as Willow’s best friend Abby calls him, may be easy on the eye, but it doesn’t take long for the new neighbours to discover that they don’t agree on anything.

Where Henry does science, Willow does nature. Where Henry does minimalism, Willow does multicolour. When Willow asked the universe to manifest her perfect man, either she wasn’t specific enough, or Henry isn’t it.

But when Willow tries again and a new man arrives in the village, has fate got it right this time and delivered her The One, or does she need to look closer to home…

‘Read yourself happy’ with Maxine Morrey’s latest comforting and utterly uplifting love story. Perfect for fans of Mhairi McFarlane, Catherine Walsh and Sophie Kinsella.

My review

After a failed marriage, Willow gladly returned back to the village she grew up in. With her fresh start, she also adapted a new kind of life. She loves living in her cottage with her lovely dog Spud, surrounded by plants and flowers that bring her peace. In the village where everyone knows everyone and everything, she has found the calmness that she needed.
But when Willow asked nature to manifest her perfect man, she didn’t expect that her new neighbour, Henry Darcy, would be the complete opposite from what she wants.
Because with his artificial grass, his minimalistic ideas and him not being a dog – person, Willow and Henry just clash over everything.
Yet a good neighbour is worth more than a distant friend, and Willow is ready to bury the hatchet. While slowly a friendship grows, a new arrival in the village makes Willow wonder if he may the perfect man. But perhaps the perfect man doesn’t come in the shape Willow expected him to be?

I am always curious reading stories with fresh starts, neighbours that are total opposites and clash, to see an evolution taking place slowly. Or in this book’s case, very very slowly 😊

Now, I must admit, I am not a nature person. Or at least, not as Willow is. But I know the wonders plants and herbs can have and how they can help. I understand it, but I don’t think I have the patience of taking care of them, giving them the needed love, and my hay fever also doesn’t help! 😊

But even if I don’t share Willow’s passion and heart for nature, there is still a lot of love to give her! First of all, the relationship with Spud, just amazing! At moments I was even doubting that Spud was a real dog, there is so much love between the two of them! And he for sure is an exceptional little dog, who truly understands what Willow says, and even more, he is great at sensing someone’s character!
To make things even better for Willow’s case: is there a cuter, more lovable job than Willow’s? I never heard of it before, but I can absolutely understand that she has too many customers! The bears I had to say goodbye to just because it was better for them… If I had a Willow then, I knew where I would go with my lovely bears!

The difference with her new neighbour couldn’t be bigger… and even just after moving, Willow clashes with Henry. While I could understand that Henry wants to make the house his home, the way he likes it, I could also understand Willow, the way she is she doesn’t want to tear nature away for human personal preferences.
Obviously the relationship starts on the wrong foot, and I was ready to make some popcorn while reading the drama unfolding! 😊

Henry’s character doesn’t give the best impression, by often saying the wrong thing. But the more into the story, the more it’s clear that it’s not that Henry is a bad character, but he has so much going on in his own head, that he doesn’t always think before talking.
But once Willow and Henry decide to be good neighbours, we see the real Henry, and we see what a lovely character he is. And that he is doing his best to make his own fresh start work out for the best.

Even if Willow at times still disliked Henry, I have to admit I had a soft spot for him, even at moments when he frustrated me. Because no matter what he says, his actions speak so much louder. And for him, it’s also a case of unknown makes unloved. Not only how we see him, but also how he sees the world!

I found it sweet and heart – warming seeing the friendship grow between Willow and Henry, despite their many differences. We see how wonderful and eye – opening it can be to have someone who doesn’t see the things like you do. 
Willow and Henry learn from each other, and even when they don’t agree, they accept each other’s opinions.

Obviously I wanted the story to go in a certain direction, so when a new character entered the scene, well, I wasn’t a fan. But it wasn’t just because I wanted Willow to go another way, but there was just something about the new doctor in town that made me feel uncomfortable…

So even if Willow was taken away by the new doctor, and it hurt Henry, and it caused the biggest drift between them, I loved it to see how he still wants to protect her. And it broke my heart to see the decisions Henry makes for his own sake…

Nevertheless, as I know this author, I was 100% sure that in the end, Willow would have her happily ever after, one way or another! 

I truly found this an amazing story, showing us that first impressions or even first actions aren’t always the complete picture we see of a person. And it also takes time for a person to feel comfortable enough to open up completely. But also the right person will widen your world, make you love new thing and will agree to disagree!

When a place steals your heart…

Synopsis

Welcome to Sea Glass Cove!

Marine archaeologist Lauren Sunshine is used to life on the go. Her suitcase is always packed ready to explore the country’s underwater heritage so when a shipwreck is found off the Dorset coast, she is thrilled to be leading the excavation team.

Philippa Silver, ‘Phil’ to the folk of Sea Glass Cove, has devoted her life to the Museum by the Sea. But funding is tight, and despite subletting half of the museum to her best friend Jules’s sea glass shop, she fears for the museum’s future.

Phil hopes the wreck discovery could bring more visitors, but there’s a problem – the museum’s too small to house its treasures. Thankfully, new friend Lauren seems as determined as she is to save the museum.

But, when Phil’s brother Ollie catches Lauren’s eye, she begins to wonder if she has more than one reason to be interested in life at Sea Glass Cove….

My review

Lauren Sunshine is a marine archaeologist that is thrilled to be leading the excavation team in Sea Glass Cove. She has prioritized her career above everything, and her suitcase is always packed.
But her meeting Ollie, makes her wonder if there is more to life than excavating. And that is not all, because in Sea Glass Cove, she also befriends Philippa Silver, Phil, who runs the Museum by the Sea. A museum at risk of closing, yet Phil won’t go down without a fight, especially as she has her best friend Jules, who runs the sea glass shop sublet from the museum.
In the timespan of one summer, several lives will be changed, but in what way?

Why do we always allow our jobs to ‘dictate’ our lives? We should be working to live our life at the fullest, and not spend our free time worrying about work. And while I can appreciate someone dedicated to their work, it’s shouldn’t be your main focus.

Unfortunately, that is exactly what is taking place in Lauren’s life. She has worked hard to get the recognition she has now, and she for sure took her mentor’s advice at heart, to have her career as her only priority. There is no room for love, or just dating in her life, also because she never stays long at one place.
On one hand, I admired her for what she has achieved at her age. But on the other hand, it is also a sad situation. Not only doesn’t she has someone to return to, but she doesn’t really have a place to call home, as her suitcase is always ready to take off once again.

But I also know that you only have to find the right place with the right people living in it, to make you wonder if perhaps your initial choices and convictions were wrong.

And that place is Sea Glass Cove for Lauren. Obviously, a love interest is always a good reason, but the best reason is that you find just the right people, and make friends. And one of those friends is Phil.

Not that Phil is a less worrier… She truly loves working in the Museum by the Sea, but the museum is struggling heavily. There are just not enough visitors, and she also sublet the premises to her best friend Jules even if there are enough artefacts found from the shipwreck Vissen.

There are several dynamics in this book. There is the attraction between Lauren and Ollie, bit facing several struggles, misunderstandings and miscommunications, fuelled also by fear. And then there is the relationship of Phil with Jules. How do you know when someone is into you? And dare you to evolve the relationship from friendship to more? Even if there is the fear that it could possibly ruin everything?

Obviously, the doubts and fears are a bit frustrating as a reader, but that’s only because you know that the endgame, if the characters would just dare to, could be wonderful.

A lot is taking place in this book, the quest to find the missing chess pieces, the quest to save the museum, a life – altering competition and much more. But it never feels too overwhelming, as it all makes perfect sense in the greater picture of the story.
There are also so many lovely characters in this book, that for one reason or another just take a piece of your heart.

I enjoyed reading this story, as while a lot is happening, it never feels rushed. The author took her time to make us understand perfectly not only the inner turmoil, but also how everything works in the characters world.
This was the perfect read to get away from the real world, and let yourself submerge in the surprisingly exiting world of excavation and the sense of home in a wonderful place just like Sea Glass Cove.