When meeting the wrong person…

Synopsis

Everyone has secrets. Are yours worth dying for?

Julia Sutherland isn’t too sure about her new colleague. Ellis Kirkbride is friendly, charismatic and handsome, but there’s just something about him – a bit too slick, a bit too confident, and he stands a bit too close. Normally she’d share her concerns with her husband Rob, but he’s been distant lately and Julia has a secret he mustn’t find out.

Ellis Kirkbride thought he had found the right woman. She was everything he could want but she didn’t want him. And that was unacceptable…

In a tale of twisted love and chilling revenge, bestseller O.J. Mullen will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very last page. Perfect for fans of K. L Slater, Claire Douglas and Sue Watson.

My review

When Julia Sutherland meets her new colleague Ellis Kirkbride, she has a bad feeling about him. But despite her uneasiness about him, Ellis acts like the perfect colleague. Only a too perfect one…
Normally Julia would share her thoughts with her husband Rob, but Rob seems to be having a stressful time at his own work. Or at least that is what Julia thinks… She knows they both have demanding jobs, and it seems that they are drifting apart.
Meanwhile Ellis believes he has found the perfect woman. But she doesn’t think they have the connection he feels with her, even if he has proof of that one evening.
So with her rejecting him, Ellis now wants to show her that no one can reject him. And he is ready to stop at nothing to make his point, even revealing the dark secrets that everyone tries to protect…

Having read several books of this author, I thought I knew what to expect from this one. Well, I was wrong! For the greatest part of the book, I had no clue how the resolution would look like, and who would be able to walk away from what was happening…

I immediately liked Julia in the story. She is a workaholic, no doubts about that. But she still loves Rob deeply, and she sees him as her best friend. Just like a marriage should be like!
But also at work she shows her worth. She has her own team, and just like a Mama Bear, she protects her cubs, fighting for them when there is some injustice.

But at her work, what angered me, beside all the rest that was happening, also how her own boss could be an old, archaistic snob. He at moments could give some remarks which made me want to say that we are in the 21st century, and such remarks are just not done!

There are several sides in this story, and not all of them were so innocent. There is only one innocent party in the whole, and that is Julia. Because Ellis, well, he is a creep on several levels. Julia’s husband Rob also becomes a less liked character, with his behaviour, deceit and lies.
Yes, Julia is also keeping something from Rob, but if we are comparing the severity of them, well Rob’s secrets are for sure worse than Julia’s…

The more I got into the book, more goosebumps I was having. It’s strange how a human mind can work, and how it can create a reality of its own. And I am not even talking about the actions some can do. I was left shocked and flabbergasted and wanted to kick some ass myself after some barbed remarks that were intentional…
This book for sure shows us the evilness in all its extremes, and how it also can be something that a person can be carrying around since being at a young age.

But, and this is kind of a dilemma for me, we also see how people that we love and that love us, can feel that something is wrong. And how their persistence can be the thing that can bring salvation.

I had no idea where the author would go with this story. It starts rather innocent, and then things just get worse and worse after each chapter. Towards the climax, I even felt my heartbeat increasing with fear. And it’s in those cases that you know that you have a real good thriller in your hands.

There is no age limit when it concerns to live again

Synopsis

The brilliant, brand-new novel from the TOP TEN bestselling author of 59 Memory Lane

New friends, new flame, new fun . . .

Kate dreamed of a happy marriage, a house full of children and a fulfilling teaching career. But after twenty-five years of married life and about to hit the big 5-0, it’s clear that her dreams haven’t quite come true. Then her husband leaves her for his golf partner, forcing Kate to take stock of what has become of her life.

Luckily, new friendship comes her way in the form of three feisty older women who take Kate under their wings, plus a new flame (could it be more . . .?) sparks with local divorced dad, Milo. As her big birthday approaches, Kate’s zest for life begins to return.

But opening herself up means making herself vulnerable to being hurt all over again . . .

Can it be true that life begins at fifty? And will Kate be brave enough to find happiness, and grab hold of it with both hands?

My review

When Kate was younger, she had many dreams: become a teacher, have a happy marriage and a house full of children. Now that she has nearly reached the age of 50, her husband decided to choose a life with his mistress, there are no children, and she never went for a teaching career.
But with new friends who take her under their wings, Kate understands that you are never too old to enjoy life.
And could it be that there is even love in the cards for her, in the form of divorced dad Milo? Or is Kate too afraid to open up her heart again and find complete joy?

Is there an age in life when you can say with 100% certainty that you have everything that you wanted in life?
I don’t believe there is, there is always something that can happen that can change your whole course in life, no matter how young/old you are…

With Kate’s story, we see that setbacks can happen all around, and even more than just once…
Her story, well to be more precise, her past, is rather a sad one. We see clearly how first she has an overprotective father, a controlling husband, and then she is being discarded by that same husband. And it broke my heart to read that the one thing she wished for the most, having children, wasn’t meant for her…

Her life has been nothing but grey and beige, while Kate deserves a life in full colour… So while of course the end of a marriage is a sad event, with that kind of husband, I was happy for Kate, as now she could be herself and live her life how *she* wants it.
But of course, it’s difficult to break free from a life that you are so accustomed to. Luckily, she can count on her new friends to help her with it! 😊

I found it sweet to see how surrounding yourself with the right people can get you out of your shell. Because that is exactly what happens with Kate, because her friends persuade her to be more ‘adventurous’ and get more colour and brightness in her life.

And that brightness also comes in the shape of Milo. He is a divorced dad, but it’s clear that the relationship with his son isn’t an easy one. That saddened me, because no matter what happens between the parents, they should never talk badly about each other to the children…

As Kate and Milo are in the some position, both being divorced, with a cheating partner, it makes completely sense that they have a connection. But it’s not only that, they connect on a much deeper level than just ‘being divorced’.
They become the kind of friends that find each other but it feels like they have known each other for years.

In my opinion, the last revelation could have been skipped, but in a way it also shows that life and Fate work in mysterious ways.

I enjoyed reading this story about finding yourself and the courage of being more coloured at no matter what age. It also works inspiring, as age truly is just a number, and you are only as old as you (make yourself) feel. It’s never too late to start over again, to find the real you, and to even find love again!

Check this out!

Synopsis

When ambitious city girl, Darcie Freeman is sent to the Isle of Skye to conduct research for a travel guide, she’s horrified. The prospect of having to travel to a remote island in the Scottish Highlands leaves her wondering what she’ll do.

Step in Logan Burns. Gorgeous and adventurous, he lives and breathes the island, and along with his sister Iona, who owns a rather haphazard PR company, they’re going to show Darcie everything she needs to know about Skye.

As Darcie swaps her designer shoes for her walking boots and her faux fur jacket for her raincoat, will she learn there’s more to life than the picture-perfect presence she shares on social media, or will it be the case that Skye is the limit…

Pre-order Links

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Scottish-Island-Summer-escapist-romance-ebook/dp/B0CW1767DP/

https://www.amazon.com/Scottish-Island-Summer-escapist-romance-ebook/dp/B0CW1767DP/

Publication Date: 30th January 2025

About the author

Julie Shackman is a former journalist from Scotland, who has always wanted to write feel-good romance. As well as being an author, Julie also writes verses and captions for greetings card companies. Julie admits to having an obsession with stationery and handbags. She is married, has two sons and adopted a Romanian rescue puppy, Cooper. A Scottish Island Summer is Julie’s twelfth novel.

The cover!

When a holiday together turns into something completely differently…

Synopsis

‘A lovely warm escapist read’ KATE EBERLEN

She’s in love. Just with the wrong man…

Nora is done with dating, but still dreams of finding the one. So when a handsome stranger comes to her rescue one night and vanishes leaving only a business card, it’s like a scene out of a movie…

It doesn’t take long for the two to ‘bump’ into each other again, and Nora falls for the perfect-on-paper Gabe. Only a few weeks later, he invites her to Sicily, and she cannot believe her luck!

Until Gabe is forced away for work, leaving her alone with his big and warm family in gorgeous Sicily who welcome her with open arms. Everyone but Luca, his older and distrustful brother, who is always around.

Soon Nora finds herself on a dreamy, romantic getaway-just with the wrong brother.

My review

Nora has had enough of dating. From now on, she only will give love a chance after a clear sign that he is The One.
So when one night, Nora has almost an accident, and he disappears without a word, yet only passing on his business card, she believes that this is the perfect meet – cute.
So when they bump into each other by accident (or not so accidental), is doesn’t take long for Nora to fall in love with the more – than – perfect Gabe.
Things are so well that Nora agrees to join him on a holiday/ celebration with his family, in Sicily. But when Gabe suddenly has to leave for work and leave Nora alone with his family, Nora fears for the worst. However, Gabe’s family welcome her with open arms, and embrace her in their warmth. With the exception of Gabe’s brother Luca, who is wary of Nora and the relationship.
Nora quickly realizes that she not only has found the perfect boyfriend, but also the perfect family. If only she could share it all with Gabe, and not with his brother…

A love story set in Sicily? Of course I have to read it! Especially when love at first sight is included and also a wary brother that makes me already guess the direction of the book! 😊

I have to admit, that throughout the biggest part of the book, didn’t know what to really think about Nora. It’s clear she is a kind and good person. And I liked it how she has had enough of dating, and would now be waiting for a sign when she would meet The One.
Her backstory was a happy yet also sad one at the same time. Even if she doesn’t know her father, she grew up happily with her mother and grandparents. Being a close unit, it makes perfect sense that present – Nora is at loss now…

So what was it that made me not completely like Nora for the full 100%? While it’s obvious she is a nice person, and has a unique style that she owns marvellously, it’s the easiness in which she believes she has found the perfect man.
Yes, it could perfectly be that Gabe is her Person, but how can you tell in only a few weeks? Okay, perhaps I am too sceptical in believing that it can all be found so easily. Which we also know that Nora didn’t just bump into Gabe a second time! 😊

Also the fact that there is a small white lie being told to Gabe’s family, and not just saying there is a misunderstanding. For me, it didn’t sit right. But once again, that’s just me 😊

But it isn’t that I disliked Nora, because while perhaps I didn’t agree with all her actions, I could understand where she was coming. Especially where it concerns Gabe’s family. Here she is, on her own instead of with Gabe, with a family that perhaps doesn’t understand her in a linguistical way, but understand her with their hearts. And she has found a family like hers used to be, and she has found what has been missing in her life.
Who would want to walk away from that?

Talking about family… Nora gets along with everyone from this wonderful family (well, they are Italian, of course they are wonderful 😊), with the exception of Gabe’s brother Luca…

Luca… he doesn’t come off as the kindest characters initially, but I couldn’t for sure blame him! How would you react when suddenly a woman appears with your brother, apparently engaged and knowing what you know about his previous relationship?
But no matter what his thoughts are about Nora, it was sweet to see his kindness, as he is ready to help her around. And it goes even further, when he gets to know Nora better and learns about her life.

I found it great to see Nora flourish during this book. She needs to have a family to love and that loves her, and in Sicily she has found the perfect match.
And she also realizes, evolving from a perhaps gullible woman into an actual grown up, that there is a difference in lust and love.

While initially it would seem the story would revolve Nora and Gabe, and I later was happy to see that it took the direction I actually wanted, to me it felt more that more about Nora finding a home. Not a physical home, but a home made of people.
And isn’t that what we all want?

I truly enjoyed reading this story, with characters that grow and learn about what truly matters in life, and that indeed it can be found at the most unexpected moments, and in unexpected ways!

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!!!