Is love worth the risk?

Synopsis

A fresh beginning…

Esther Hamilton, is finally finding her feet after her split with her horrible ex, and is looking forward to her new single life. She has a job she loves in the busy Accident and Emergency department, a new home and for the first time ever, a chance to just have fun with her good friends. Love is very much off the cards…

An old friend…

Until the arrival of Joe Carter – the brother of Esther’s best friend, Danni. Joe is also newly single and still as gorgeous as ever, but Esther can’t lose her heart to Joe. If it all went wrong, she’d lose two of her best friends.

A second chance at love?

But working together over a troubled patient, the connection between them is undeniable. And when Esther’s parents’ marriage hits trouble, Joe is there for her, offering her support, and Esther knows she’s fallen hard.

Are they brave enough to take a risk on love, or are they destined to remain friends forever?

My review

After breaking up with her fiancé, Esther Hamilton is slowly finding her feet again. Luckily she has made amends with her best friend Danni, as they both have been fooled by Esther’s fiancé.
Even if things aren’t always easy, she loves her job at the A&E in the hospital. Now Esther is enjoying the single life, with love being the last thing on her mind.
And when Danni’s brother Joe returns, Esther is happy to have her old friend back in her life. When a troubled patient brings them working together, Esther cannot deny the deep connection she has with Joe. And when her own parents seem to be having a rough time, it’s Joe she can count on for support. But Esther could never risk losing her two best friends, as she knows how much that would hurt.
But isn’t love always worth the risk?

When I first started reading books from this author, it was a slow – growing love. But now I can proudly state that I am completely hooked and I am as happy as a little child whenever I start a new book!
And I found it wonderful to return to the Cornish Country Hospital, with all its great characters (with the exception of a few obviously!)

I was very curious to see how Esther was doing, after all the revelations (and drama) of the first book. But I liked it how positive she was, after everything. She realized on time what a douchebag her fiancé was, and even if there was a small glitch in the friendship with Danni, now everything is just like it should be. And even if there isn’t a significant other in her life, Esther is completely happy! She has loving parents, her examples of how love should be, she loves her job even if it isn’t always easy and her bond with Danni is stronger than ever.

It’s clear that she is also a very caring person. It shows in many different aspects, not only the care for her own family, but also how she does understand that Danni and her new love need some time alone (even if they don’t say it to her, or contradict her). But also how much compassion she shows towards the patients. And perhaps she cares too much about them, as she has been too close already before with far – reaching consequences, even if she wasn’t at fault at all.

Esther is the kind of person that is always thinking about others, wanting to help them. And that is so heart – warming to see, that there are good people in the world, wanting to help.

With Joe returning, I was very curious to see how that relationship would develop. It was great to read that there already was a bond, a connection between them, and that things would just develop from there. And it was sweet to see that no matter how much time had passed, and how far away Joe used to live, their friendship picks up like it never left.

I could understand Esther’s dilemma as her feelings start to grow. Because there are so many possible problems: how would Danni react, or what if things wouldn’t work out? Is Esther truly ready to risk so much? And while on one hand I could understand that, I also wanted them to just go with it! 😊

But I also found that this story wasn’t only about the blooming relationship between Esther and Joe. But it was also about the struggles people have in life, and how they can or cannot cope it. And Esther being the kind and gentle person she is, is doing her best to help. Yet it’s not easy to find the balance and cross the fine line.
Mental issues aren’t all that easy to talk about, but I also feel that it is a necessary thing. Because we need to learn to be open about it and not see it as a weakness. And we also need to see that getting the right help is not something to be ashamed of…

We also see in this book a second storyline, about Esther’s mother Caroline. While on the outside she seems to be in a happy marriage, ever since Patrick retired, the envisioned life she thought they would have, isn’t just happening…

I must admit, I got also frustrated at Patrick’s behaviour, because he seems so passive and I just couldn’t see that passion, that big love between them.
And I could understand that Caroline decides to things on her own, as Patrick just doesn’t want to do anything…

Even if that brings Caroline making choices I didn’t fully agree with. But in a way, I could comprehend her actions.

In its totally this was a wonderful story, once again a book from this author didn’t disappoint me. It is a heart – warming, compelling story, about characters at crossroads. For one reason or another, there are choices that need to be made, and it’s up to them to make the right choice.
But there is also so much love in it, a growing love, a broken love, a sisterly love and love and care for other people.
We see in this book that life isn’t always easy, and that there may be curveballs that we cannot avoid. But there is always room for caring, loving and forgiving. And in the end, it’s the care, love and forgiveness that truly matter…

When no one compare to the one that got away, and then he’s back…

Synopsis

There’s no place like home…

Although dog trainer Sally is relatively new to Wagging Tails, the team she works with have quickly become her family and the dogs her friends.

But when Andy, the one that got away, turns up for a brief respite from the city, she is at a crossroads. As tempting as a life with him is, she loves her home of West Par, and anyway, she has responsibilities here.

Number one on that list is ensuring the dogs’ home stays in business. A developer has been sniffing around wanting to buy the land, and the team is worried.

Sally will do anything to save her home and her friends’ livelihoods but the lure of reuniting with her lost love is strong. Is there a way for her to have both?

My review

Sally is a dog trainer recently started at Wagging Tails Dogs’ Home. But even if she is rather new, she already feels part of that family, and just like everyone else, her mission is to save each dog and find the perfect home for each and every one of them. And that also means to save the business, now that a developer is determined to gain the land for his own purposes.
On a personal level, Sally cannot get her ex out of her mind. No matter how many lovely men she meets, they cannot compare to Andy, the one that got away.
But when Andy suddenly appears in West Par, Sally does not know what to do, as her heart is now divided. Because Andy also seemingly hasn’t forgotten her. But his life is in the city, while Sally’s in West Par…
So with a dilemma like that, what is the right thing for Sally to do?

What an amazing return to Wagging Tails Dogs’ Home! This place for sure holds a special spot in my heart, as I truly love it how much every member of the team is dedicated to the place, the job and the wonderful, sweet doggies staying there! If I could, I would adopt each and every one of them (the dogs I mean 😊) and give them all my love!

I found Sally a very recognizable character. Because don’t we all have that one person that is ‘the one that got away’? And don’t we all wonder what our lives would look like with that person in it?
To make it even ‘worse’ for Sally, it isn’t that they had a huge fight that ended things. But it was a case of life pulling them in different directions.
So I could understand how she was a bit shellshocked seeing Andy again, and having all those feelings resurface.

But Sally is also a very recognizable woman seeing her passionate in her job. She is a wonderful dog trainer, wanting to understand the animals she is working with, and showing a lot of patience and love while working with them.
If everyone just had a little bit of Sally in them, the world would be a much better place!

I have to admit, when Andy returned, of course I was delighted for Sally, as there was this huge potential of a second chance. But it was also crystal-clear that he was hiding something from Sally. And I had a gut – feeling what that secret would be.

But that didn’t take away the fact that, beside that secret, Andy is a good person. He followed his dreams and passions initially, but he also has a great heart. Because when his family needed him the most in the past, he didn’t hesitate one moment.
Of course, he also made a few mistakes, wrong decisions. But then, haven’t we all?

I found it really endearing seeing that old flame reignite. When Sally and Andy are together, they are so in sync, it doesn’t seem they have been apart for so long. I truly wanted that Sally’s imagine of Andy was a real one, and not a sugar – coated version of him.
And it was so sweet to see how they both feel the same way!
But I could so easily comprehend the dilemma too… no matter how they have been feeling and apparently still are feeling about each other, their current lives are in total different places. And could Sally give up her life in West Par, that she loves, for the love she has for Andy? And is it the right thing to do to ask Andy to make such a ‘sacrifice’ for love?

Now, that developer… he also ignited something in me, pure anger and rage! It truly annoyed me how persistent he kept on being. I don’t think that I could muster that much patience as everyone did in the book! I would have used a lot of words I cannot ever repeat here, and wouldn’t be averse at using violence! 😊
Yet I admired the united front everyone formed at  Wagging Tails Dogs’ Home’. No matter how much money was offered, the future of the home was more important than anything else.

This was a lovely, heart – warming story, not only about second chances, but also about fighting for a right cause, family (bound by blood and otherwise), friendship and most important love in all its aspects.
Returning to West Par was returning to my happy place. Not only did I see some old friend back  but I fell in love with each new presence, on two legs but mainly I fell in love with those on four legs!

When forced to wed, can a childhood sweetheart be the solution?

Synopsis

A betrothal bargain

With the Highlander from her past

When Susanna Cameron needs to thwart her brothers’ plan to marry her off, she turns to her childhood sweetheart, Laird Rowan Campbell, with a daring proposal—to be her pretend betrothed! In exchange, she’ll help the now-hardened Rowan get revenge on the man who killed his family. The only flaw in Susanna’s plan—their returning attraction! 

My review

Ever since losing the man she loved, Susanna Cameron has closed her heart avoiding any possible kind of heartbreak. But when she learns from her brother that he is going to marry her off for the clan’s sake, she knows that there is more than her brother is telling her. seeing no other solution, she seeks help from her childhood sweetheart, Laird Rowan Campell. Not only does Susanna wants him to pretend to be her betrothed, but she also needs his help to uncover the secrets both her brother are keeping from her. In exchange, she will help Rowan to get his revenge on the man that killed his family.
But even if Rowan is no longer that same man Susanna once knew in and out, could what they once felt for each other reignite? And are both broken people ready to love and be loved again?

Is there something more heart – breaking than losing the person you love? Yes there is… as you lost him ‘thanks’ your own family…
Because that is exactly what happened with Susanna, as her beloved one died as her father interfered in their romance. And all because of status…

So yes, I could understand why Susanna wouldn’t want anything to do with love anymore. Because losing Jeremiah wasn’t the first heartbreak she had to endure, but also refusing Rowan long before broke her heart. And once again it was because of her family interfering.

It’s clear that Susanna is a strong character, she won’t be fooled by anyone. And she isn’t afraid to put up a fight, even against her own brothers. Brothers that are clearly keeping something from her and are not willing to share their worries.
So I admired Susanna, ready to make an alliance with Laird Rowan Campbell, despite their past. Because she won’t just go along with whatever her brother demands her to do!

Now, Rowan is not a complete stranger for us eager readers of Jeanine Englert’s books. But even if you haven’t read other books, you can still catch up rather quickly.
Rowan’s tale for sure is a heart – breaking one, as he once had it all, and lost everything, even costing him temporarily his own sanity.
In that aspect, I admired him as he managed to get out of that downward spiral he was in. Only a strong man can manage to put his head straight back on his shoulders and return to be the Laird his clan needs.
But I could absolutely understand his thirst for revenge! Who wouldn’t want to get revenge on the person that took everything away from you?

It was a bit funny, seeing the strained relationship between Susanna and Rowan. Initially for sure they don’t like each other, or at least the people they have become. And having to act to be in love with each other… just so funny for us readers!

But no matter how they felt at the start of the story, it’s obvious that there is still something lingering between them. No matter how much life has changed Susanna and Rowan, their hearts are still the same, even if it took some serious battering.

Slowly the extreme high walls built around their hearts are falling apart, and that is only possible with the right person. Of course it isn’t a walk in the park and there may be some frustrations and arguments taking place between Susanna and Rowan. But the harder they fight, the more clear it is for us to see where it all comes from…

There is one character that absolutely stole my heart in this book, and that is delightful little Rosa! She is the reason Rowan was able to return to his former self, as his little girl needs her father. But her innocent character is just so adorable!

This is a story about two characters who have both been through a lot, as life and Fate hasn’t been gentle on either of them. But that also made them more resilient and stronger than anyone else. Their scheming together makes it possible to slay huge demons of the past and even fight against enemies made of flesh and blood, together. And seeing how both Susanna and Rowan are losing that dark cloak around them, and being able to open their hearts again, was truly great to read!

When you’re ready to move on, but the past apparently isn’t…

Synopsis

This is the first book in an exciting new trilogy (‘The Sunshine Sisters’, part of the Little Duck Pond Café series) about three sisters, who are all – in their different ways – searching for something missing in their lives. They haven’t been close since a shocking incident years ago sent them spinning off in different directions. Will the village of Sunnybrook work its magic and finally reunite the family?

In this first story, Rori has escaped a desperate situation by fleeing to the village. But can she really leave her past behind, or will it come back to haunt her, as she fears it will? Can she find the peace and happiness she craves in Sunnybrook?

My review

Aurora, Rori for friends, moved to Sunnybrook to have a brand new start after a bad relationship. She loves her new friends and meeting Kurt may make her believe in love again, perhaps. But when things start to happen, bad things, Rori is afraid that her past has come back to haunt her. Fearful of what may come, but also determined to not let that fear take over her life, Rori and her friends are ready to solve the mystery. But is her fear directed in the right direction? And will it all be uncovered on time, before something disastrous happens again?

There are authors that write long series and it’s often that with the next book in the series, the quality somehow diminishes, or the story seems like a repeat of a previous book. So being Book Nr. 32, you would think that the Little Duck Pond Café would have somewhat lost a bit of its charm, right?
WRONG, YOU ARE SO SO SO WRONG!!!
Because this book is just as delightful as its predecessors and just as wonderful!

I admired Rori from the first moment, because she has been through a lot in the past, with a relationship that was anything but a good one. But also the relationship with her mother and sisters isn’t an easy one.
Yet she shows such a strength, having found the courage to start a new life in Sunnybrook, making new friends and looking brightly ahead at her future.

But she isn’t just a little ray of sunshine, because of how her previous relationship went, made her wary. Even if she tries to move on, she never loses that wariness over her. And seeing how the story evolves, it’s a good thing that she keeps both eyes wide open. Because you never know in what corner the danger may lurk…

Even her meeting Kurt, doesn’t take that wariness away. And I found that a good thing, because she didn’t let her feelings get in the way of using her common sense. No matter how delightful Kurt may seem.
And yes, he absolutely is a great character, especially at moments where Rori seems to be at her lowest, he shows his worth! Specifically at one occasion perhaps he didn’t act in the mature way he should have, but hey, I would have done exactly the same thing! 😊

Although I have to admit one thing… With the bad things happening to Rori, I stared to become very suspicious of everyone, and yes, of Kurt too…
I can only imagine how terrible Rori must feel, having the feeling trying to come back at her, with a vengeance.
But I also knew somehow that things weren’t that straightforward as Rori thinks it is. I knew that this author would have something up in her sleeve, leaving me a bit flabbergasted when it all came out!

Yet this is not only about Rori and her new start, but also about Rori and her family. Rori is clearly the peacemaker in the family, and just wants all her siblings getting along. Her family is a special one, with very different characters, passions and dreams. So in a way, it makes sense that they don’t all get along that very well. But I also felt that there is so much more to yet discover in this family.

This was absolutely a wonderful story to read, with so many different layers. But also with so much love and strength in it. As there is still so much still to be discovered and secrets ready to be revealed, I cannot wait to get to know Rori’s sisters better! 😊

It can really be a hard – knock life…

Synopsis

Thirteen-year-old Alice Truelove can’t take another day of her father’s cruelty.

Better a life on the streets than being constantly blamed for her mother’s sad death, or that’s what Alice thinks as she packs up her meagre possessions. But fending for herself in the Black Country town of Wednesbury is not as easy as she expected, and it soon hits her that without help she will quickly be hungry and cold.

Bertram Jordan, or BJ to his friends, became an orphan much too young after his parents were stolen away by influenza. Growing up on the streets has not been easy, but BJ has learnt to survive, and when he meets Alice, alone and desperate, he’s happy to take her under his wing.

As Alice learns the tricks of the pick-pocketer, the best ways to charm the stallholders on the market and the skills to get by, the two children become firm friends. So, when BJ makes a fatal mistake, Alice can’t bear the thought that she might lose her only friend – forever…

The Queen of Black Country sagas is back with a heart-breaking tale of friendship, families and survival against the odds. Perfect for all fans of Katie Flynn, Val Wood and Lyn Andrews.

My review

Alice Truelove cannot live with her father any longer, as he blames her for the death of Alice’s mother. Even if she is only thirteen years old, Alice believes that life on the streets will be better than continuing living with her father. So she packs her few belongings and heads off to the streets. But being on your own, living on the streets in the Black Country of Wednesbury isn’t a walk in the park. It’s a daily struggle, not only fighting for food, but also for finding shelter.
Luckily Alice quickly meets Betram Jordan, BJ for his friends. BJ takes Alice under his wing, and learns her how to survive, as he became an orphan too young and has been living on the streets himself a long time now.
Even if Alice isn’t a fan of being a pick – pocketer, it allow the new friends to survive, by also charming the stallholders on the market. But when a mistake is made, and the friends are separated, Alice wonders if she will ever see BJ again and if she can survive on her own.

How terrible is it growing up hearing time after time that only you are the reason that your mother died? And how terrible is it that you have to hear it from your own father, who hasn’t shown any kind of affection towards you?
So while it was a heart – breaking decision that Alice made, I could understand where she was coming from.
Perhaps it was naïve of her, as she didn’t really have a plan, or at least thought about several
back – up plans.

I can only make an attempt to understand how it feels to be living on the streets, and then I am thinking about it in the present, where there are plenty of options of finding shelter and places to eat (or at least, I think so 😊).
So thinking about living on the streets in the Black Country of Wednesbury, well, that makes it so many times more difficult! And that is thinking about it generally, but think about how it must be for a young girl like Alice..

But the friendship between her and BJ, that truly was something beautiful to see. BJ truly takes care of Alice, showing her the tips and tricks to survive on the streets. On one way I could comprehend Alice’s reluctance of pickpocketing, but on the other hand, it was also clear that it’s a way of surviving..
And it was sweet how BJ tries to make Alice understand that, and he shows patience with her. He wants Alice to see happy in not so great circumstances. And them caring about each other truly warmed my heart.

So that made it even more terrible to see them separated, in a way that looks so final…
Their lives take a complete different direction, even literally. There are new people in their lives, new friendships, yet never forget about each other, and they both hope to see each other again one day.

I wasn’t aware that this book was the start of a trilogy, so I was a bit flabbergasted in reaching the end. Because I still had so many questions, and I  wanted the answers *now*! 😊
But even if now I am eagerly waiting for the next books, it doesn’t take away how this book captured me. Because it shows us that even in the most dire circumstances real friendships can be formed. And that no matter where life takes you later on, and how your life changes, that friendship still stands.
But also that no matter what a bad start you had in life, you can always turn it around (even by using a few white lies if necessary). And that even after setback after setback, there will be a silver lining coming along!

Aren’t you intrigued?

Synopsis

“That’s like believing in Father Christmas,” he said.

“Or mermaids,” she replied, gravely.

Meet the Morgans. Three very different sisters, who each blame themselves for their mother’s mysterious disappearance. 

Now over forty years on, they’re in crisis.

Cassandra – the eldest – runs the family’s cliffside hotel. But the business is in trouble, and a secret from the past seems determined to resurface.

Greer – the youngest – walked away from a glittering career to live alone in London. Now she has no choice but to return to the family home – but what kind of welcome can she expect.

And Orla – the middle sister – whose obsessive shell collecting and messages from the ‘sea-people’ dominate her life. But Orla knows things. She knows Greer is coming home to a new future, that Cassandra’s dark secret will change their lives and their mother never really left at all. 

And there’s another secret, something they all share …but of course, nobody’s telling.

Purchase Link – https://mybook.to/ShellSistersRRBk2

About the author

Adrienne Vaughan writes spellbinding, page-turning romantic suspense.

Her Heartfelt Series − The Hollow Heart, A Change of Heart and Secrets of the Heart – is set on an island off Ireland’s west coast and features a feisty investigative journalist, and her irresistible West Highland terrier. Adrienne studied at the Dublin College of Journalism and loves animals, especially dogs.

Her collection of short stories and poetry, Fur Coat & No Knickers was shortlisted for the Irish Carousel Prize for Anthology and her WWII short story, Dodo’s Portrait, was shortlisted for the Colm Toíbín International Short Story Award at the Wexford Literary Festival.

Secrets of the Shell Sisters is the second in a series of sweeping family dramas, each with a touch of Irish magic.

All her books are heart-warming, uplifting reads, featuring her trademark gripping style, and laugh out loud moments.

Adrienne, husband Jonathan, and two cocker spaniels divide their time between rural Leicestershire, the Wicklow mountains, and coastal South Devon. Agatha Christie – the cat – takes care of things while they are away.

PS: Adrienne’s keeping everything crossed there’s still time to realise her ambition to be a Bond girl.

When your heart pulls you in different directions…

Synopsis

A broken heart, a shameful secret…

Wakefield, Yorkshire 1871

Loretta Chambers has spent her life working at her father’s boatyard down at the docks. She’s tried hard to keep the business afloat, but with the railways taking trade away every day, Lorrie fears for the worst.

The arrival of handsome Italian, Matteo Falcone brings a brief glimmer of hope and a yearning inside Lorrie for another life, away from the filthy grime of the dockside. But despite her feelings for Matteo, she could never travel to Italy with him, and leave her father alone.

But one reckless, impetuous moment leaves Lorrie with a secret she will struggle to hide. And when tragedy strikes at the boatyard, Lorrie is left feeling more alone than ever before.

Always a dutiful daughter, Lorrie now carries a shame that could ruin her life forever…

My review

The year is 1871, and Loretta Chambers is helping her father running the boatyard at the docks of Wakefield in Yorkshire.
Things aren’t easy, especially since the new partner is making changes Loretta doesn’t fully agree.
When Matteo Falcone arrives, it’s not only a link to the part of the family Lottie doesn’t know anything about, but his presence also ignites something in her Lottie never experienced before. And it makes her dream of a life away from the docks. But with one reckless moment, and tragedy strikes, Lottie has to fight for what her father has been building, even if she feels more alone than ever…

There is something about the past that always intrigues me. It amazes me how much has changed for people, especially women, in such a short time. And I know that this author doesn’t write easy stories, but always manages to capture the reality.

Lottie’s tale doesn’t start as a real sad one, even if her circumstances aren’t easy. She is living with her father, helps running the boatyard, even if the business is in bad papers. And the new partner her father has for sure made me raise my eyebrows, as his behaviour for sure isn’t 100% legal.
Normally for a woman it’s not that custom to be involved with the business, but I liked it how Lottie was perhaps a feminist before it was a thing.

I liked Lottie, because no matter if she is just a young woman, she has a clear opinion of her own, and she is smarter than many people in this story.
She knows what she is talking about and even has a good insight of business in general. She is also respected by the men at the boatyard, and that respect is returned.

When Matteo arrives on the scene, I could understand her interest in the man. Not only because Matteo is a handsome man but most important because he is a member of Lottie’s maternal family. A family that Lottie doesn’t know anything about.
So yes, her attraction to that man for sure is understandable. And also, Matteo for sure is a smooth talker…

Yet in the book it saddened me to read how not only Lottie, but also her father in a way, were taken advantage of. It shows how ugly the world can be, and how deceptive, selfish and nasty some people can be.
Because Lottie finds herself fighting against many things, also many prejudices and injustices. She also learns the hard way that even the people you thought would be on your side, can hurt you.

Nevertheless, no matter what Lottie is going through, she luckily also learns that there will always be people fighting along her, in her corner.
And that warmed my heart, to see how comfort and understanding could be found in unexpected corners.

It was a bit a pity to see that the blurb, the title and even the cover gave somewhat away what would be happening to Lottie, as this only happens rather late in the story. But that didn’t take away the pleasure I had in reading this book. Because just like at the start of the book, Lottie shows a strength and determination that even nowadays people can be envious of.
Lottie keeps on fighting, even against all odds to find her own happiness, and to protect what her father has been fighting for himself.

And that is the beauty of this book, as no matter what happens to Lottie, she never gives up. And perhaps her life didn’t go as she would have thought, yet she manages to make something out of it anyway. And that for sure works as an inspiration!

When ‘just’ a book club becomes more

Synopsis

Love books? The Bordeaux Book Club is seeking new members!

When Leah and her husband moved to France, it was with the dream of becoming self-sufficient. But in truth, it’s not the ‘good life’ she’d imagined, as three hours of digging barely yields a single straggly carrot. Worse, her teenage daughter is acting up, and her husband seems to find every strange excuse under the hot French sun to disappear.

So when her friend entreats her to join the new bookclub she’s forming, Leah decides it’s something she will do for herself. The chance to make new friends, to drink a few glasses of wine, and to escape into stories that take her miles away from the life she’d thought would be her own happy-ever-after.

But the book club is a strange group of misfits. There’s prickly Grace, who lives alone and seems to know everybody and like no-one. Buttoned-up Monica, who says her husband is away and appears to be parenting her baby all alone. Handsome builder George, who has barely read a book before. And Alfie – who is a full two decades younger than everyone else, and is hiding a devastating secret…

As the stories they read begin to bring the new friends closer together, Leah is about to discover that happy-ever-afters don’t always look how you expect them to…

A gorgeously escapist read from the bestselling author of A Year at the French Farmhouse, perfect for fans of Veronica Henry, Jo Thomas and Fiona Valpy.

My review

Leah imagined that moving to France with her husband and teenage daughter would be completely different. The dream was becoming self – sufficient but the realization of that dream is way more difficult than expected. And for sure it doesn’t help that her daughter is acting out and her husband is finding any excuse to escape home.
Under slight pressure of her friend, Leah decides to join a new book club, something for herself. And while the other members of the book club couldn’t be more different from each other, with each their own issues, it’s reading and talking about books that brings them closer to each other, being there and helping each other through the toughest times, learning that life doesn’t always go as expected but also that even ‘just’ a book club can bring on your path just what you need..

At the start of this story, I admired Leah and her family, as they packed everything and made the move to France to start all over again, with the dream of becoming self – sufficient. And yes, it’s an admirable thought, but I have to be honest, I would just be terrible at it and it would become my personal hell.

But no matter how noble the initial dream was, it’s clear that reaching it is far from easy. And it made me pity Leah, because for sure she isn’t having an easy time. Not only does she has to face that the dream could be turning into a nightmare, but her husband is acting weirdly, her daughter is being a typical teenager, and Leah is certain that the chickens are after her!

And being a booklover myself, I found it a great idea for Leah to join the new book club, doing something for herself, but also getting outside more, forgetting the troubles at home.
Even if it was under slight pressure to join, it was exactly what Leah needed.

Yes, the group couldn’t be more diverse, but that also made this a wonderful group. There aren’t two members that are even remotely alike, with each their own issues, one more life – defying than another.
While each member of the group would initially seem a bit odd, slowly I started to appreciate each and every one of them, and accepting their views on books, even they don’t match my own opinions. That was also the beauty in this book, as for especially the classics, the general thoughts are all alike, yet in this book, the author dared to have a character have the complete opposite opinion, making you perhaps even rethink about your own opinion.

But the most beautiful thing in this book was, no matter how different the characters were, or in what stage of life they were, they found their own unique tribe. What started out as just another book club, turns into a real friendship, where you can rely on each other, and where you are able to offer and even receive help, without questions asked.
What started as complete strangers coming together about books, turns into a special kind of family. And that evolution truly warmed my heart, seeing how they all gathered together in the most difficult moment, involving young Alfie – the youngest member of them all – having to grow up way too fast…

The author managed to capture the despair that people can have in life, but mostly, she managed to capture how no matter how different people are, that diversity can perhaps just be what someone needs. And we see with each character realize that perhaps the life they thought would be their happy life may not be the life they are living now, but that they can be finding happiness in another, different way, with new yet amazing friends. And it’s okay to change your dreams during the journey that life is, because it’s your life to live and life can take you on a different path than what you envisaged before. And there is absolutely nothing wrong with that! 😊

To prove that titles aren’t what matters in life…

Synopsis

A Gilded Age Retelling of My Fair Lady

Arriving into English society from the drawing rooms of New York, Miss Florence Wakechild desires nothing less than the marriage her father is so desperately seeking for her. Clayton Wakechild desires nothing more than finding a suitable husband for his daughter – a husband of noble birth and title no less. No ‘new money’ here.

Frustrated with her father’s obsession with the British aristocracy, Florence comes up with a plan. If she can train an ordinary working man to behave like a viscount and fool her father, she can prove to him a title is meaningless.

It’s a straightforward plan, but the man Florence chooses is Ned Blake, a man who will open her eyes in a way she couldn’t have imagined. As Ned’s hands gently guide her across the ballroom floor, the last thing Florence expects to feel is something… real.

With his past catching up with him, Ned seizes the opportunity to lie low, if only briefly, but will the secrets he’s keeping destroy the chance of happiness he’d never imagined?

My review

Florence Wakechild is looking for anything but marrying into English society, even if her own father is looking for the highest rank to marry his daughter to. With her father obsessed with the British aristocracy, as their family comes from ‘new money’, Florence want to prove that titles are meaningless and what truly matters is the person’s characters. So she comes up with a plan: she wants an ordinary man to pretend to be a viscount and fool everyone. And her eyes falls upon Ned Blake, who ready to play along with her schemes.
But while scheming together, at moments the cards on the table are turned as it is Ned that will open Florence’s eyes. And could it be that their pretend could turn into something real?

I have to admit that I never have never seen My Fair Lady, but I think that perhaps in the end, it was in my advantage, as I had nothing to compare this book with.
So if there would have been any changes, this isn’t an issue as I just don’t know about it.

The old English society has always intrigued me, as it makes me often wonder how women in that era would live. And it’s known that women didn’t have a voice back then, but what about women that are not that pliant and meek?
And then there is of course the matter of people looking down at people with ‘new money’…

Deception is never good, even if it’s to make a point that is just all too right. But I could understand Florence and her determination to make that point, because she knows that money and titles aren’t what matters in life.

She is also a fierce woman, not just wanting to prove her right. She believes strongly, cares strongly and even finds allegiances close by, in the form of her sister and brother – in – law.
She also clearly understands that deceiving her own father isn’t a “nice” thing to do, yet she stands strong, because it’s her own future that is on the line…

But on the other hand, the first encounter with Ned, I found her a tiny bit gullible. Even if she initially doesn’t accept his offer, her curiosity takes over and does what even I would never do. Maybe I am too suspicious to act like Florence did, because who knows what would happen?

Obviously Ned shows Florence that her trust in him is justified, and not only at the start of the book. It wouldn’t be for everyone to agree with Florence’s scheme, as there is a lot at sake here, both for Florence, her family, but also for Ned.

Yet Ned shows what a great character he is, even if he acts in a very mysterious way at moments. I loved reading how he has the patience to withstand Florence’s lessons, but I loved more the bits where Ned shows Florence the things that truly matter.

Now, there is a revelation towards the end, and even if it’s a revelation that didn’t come as a complete surprise, I was happy to read that my gut feeling was right! Of course there were some clues throughout the story, at least to me, but they could have been also easily missed.

It was lovely to see how this young woman from ‘new money’ and an ordinary man slowly grow more and more close to each other. seeing that trust being built was amazing, and even when the unrevealed secrets would threaten what has been built so patiently, I never lost hope for this pair. Because it’s just like the whole point that Florence wants to make: titles don’t mean a thing if you are a shallow, hollow, or even despicable person. it’s what in your heart, your kindness, your compassion, your care that makes even the most ordinary person the most valuable one!

How can you know you are doing a good job as a parent?

Synopsis

Mia is telling me a story. It’s about a princess, who lives in a castle, on a street that bears a remarkable resemblance to ours. About a kind old lady who’s the queen. I’m distracted for a moment by her little hand softly slipping into mine. My daughter. My angel.

But then she says something that pulls me from my reverie. She says that the queen doesn’t treat the princess well. She punishes her and doesn’t let her eat anything…

Helen, my neighbour, has been so good to me. And more importantly, she’s so good with the children. Surely this is just another story of Mia’s, just make believe.

Because if it’s not, maybe my dad was right all along: I was never good enough to be a mother, and I’ve let my precious children down in the worst way possible.

A heartbreaking and uplifting story about the choices a mother makes for the sake of her children, perfect for fans of Jodi Picoult, Emma Robinson and Kate Hewitt.

My review

Jess is struggling as a single mother. It’s not easy looking after Mia on her own, and at the same time being afraid of her ex appearing out of nowhere.
So it’s obvious that Jess is happy when her neighbours Helen and Robert are more than happy to look after Mia while Jess is at work.
But then Mia starts to tell stories about how she as a princess is being punished. Is this a case of a little girl having too much imagination? Or is there more to Helena and Robert? But with Jess being on her own, and having no one else to rely on, can she believe Mia?

There are sometimes characters are truly sad characters, despite their best efforts.  And somehow, Jess was exactly that in my eyes. Of course she is doing her utterly best to raise Mia the best she can on her own. I can only try to imagine the hardship on not having anyone to rely on, as even her own father is practically out of the picture.

So yes, I was happy when her new neighbours Helen and Robert quickly bond with little Mia, and offer to help her when she is struggling to find the balance between being there for Mia and doing her job.
Mia is an adorable girl, with a wide range of imagination, making it easy to be rather doubtful if anything of her stories would be actually true.

But I liked it how Jess didn’t just dismiss Mia, but also taking it with a grain of salt, and doesn’t hesitate to double – check the facts with Helen and Robert. Helen and Robert that the more into the story, the more are behaving in a strange way.
Even in a way that I personally wouldn’t trust anymore and wouldn’t let my own child stay there. Especially as they both seem to ignore your own wishes and just do as they please.

In that matter, I found Jess a bit silly if I can say it like that. Why would you let your child with someone you are suspicious over? And their behaviour and their ‘truths’ become more and more suspicious…
Yes, I comprehend that things aren’t easy for Jess, but isn’t there really another way?

So for especially that reason, I was happy to see Jess and her father making amends, as that could be another option for Jess to rely on in time of need.
And of course it was lovely to see her father taking up the role of grandpa splendidly!

This story has a few surprises, not all that pleasant. And I have to say, I kind of felt it in my gut what would happen. Although not completely, as I was a bit flabbergasted by reading how manipulative people could be, to others who have the right intentions, in contrary to the manipulator.

Yet is also shows the strength and determination of a mother. Even if Jess is having moments of doubts over her motherhood, the fact that she is invested, is ready to fight for her girl, shows us that in fact that she *is* a good enough mother. And yes, she makes some mistakes, but doesn’t every parent? 
Parenthood is a journey filled with trail and error, there isn’t a guide book telling you what the right thing to do is with your child. Each child is different and needs different things, but what it needs the most is being loved and being protected.
And that is exactly what sparks from the pages, as Jess is willing to do anything to protect Mia, from everything and everyone.

This was a book that made me think about the dangers of being a child and also a parent. But is also made me appreciate once again the love and dedication my own parents gave and still give me. Because just like Jess, there are mistakes made, but in the bigger scheme, those mistakes don’t matter, as it is their love that will always stand by me.