Category Can be read as a stand alone

Making Memories at the Cornish Cove by Kim Nash @KimTheBookworm @rararesources @BoldwoodBooks #NetGalley #fiction #romance #bookreview

yvonnembee 2 Comments

I have been waiting an age to share my review for this book and today I finally can 🙂 here is my review of Making Memories at the Cornish Cove by Kim Nash. This is the 3rd book in the Cornish Cove series and her latest book is another wonderful addition.

My huge thanks to Rachel at Rachel’s Random Resources for my spot on the Blog Tour and for arranging my copy from the publisher Boldwood Books.

It’s never too late…

After five husbands and five broken hearts, Lydia feels like she’s always been chasing something. But now she’s found her purpose, and having moved to Driftwood Bay to spend more time with her daughter Meredith, she’s happier than ever.

But there’s still life in these old bones yet! With her newfound sense of identity, she’s keen to re-explore the things that made her happy as a younger person. Lydia’s passion was dancing – she used to compete in her younger years, and there’s no place she’s more at home than on the dancefloor.

So when widower and antiques restorer Martin tells her about a big dance competition, she’s ready and raring to bring more joy into her life. But while making memories with Martin, the more she realises that both of their hearts need restoring too…

MY REVIEW

What another fabulous book in the Cornish Cove series this one is. Returning to some of the characters to catch up with things going on in their lives as well as learning more about them and newer characters is great.

This one focuses on Lydia, she is Meredith’s mum and they have reconnected after many years. There is a past that gradually emerges and it is a chance for pasts to be dealt with. Lydia is enjoying being in her 70s and she is a very capable lady who does not feel old and has plenty of things to look forward to. She is given the chance for some new opportunities and a chance to do something she thought she never would. She has been married before and she is deciding if she needs a relationship or if she is happy in her own company. Living in this community of Driftwood is a way of finding herself if you like.

Along with Lydia and Meredith, we have Clem and his Dad Martin, a new neighbour and the vocal and wonderful Vi. Everyone needs a Vi in their lives, and they probably know someone similar… I am saying nothing about who she occasionally reminds me of! I think this is wonderful about this author’s characters, they feel familiar and that is not just through reading the books in order, but that they do remind you of people you already know in everyday life. I think this is what makes this series so good and for me, it means the balance is right.

With new starts and fresh opportunities, things are going well, but there are some more serious aspects that the author brings in. This does leave a cloud over things and these are dealt with as any of us do in reality. We dwell and overthink and wonder about the what-ifs. Don’t think this means the book is down and moody because it never is, the author knows her characters too well to let them suffer in silence. They do live in a close-knit community after all.

There are some wonderful heartwarming moments in this book and I will admit to a tear or two at some scenes. This is a fabulous book and would work as a stand-alone, but reading in order helps with the continuing stories of what are becoming regulars. One for fans of heartwarming contemporary fiction and romance, with some very humorous moments and great characters. I would definitely recommend this book.

Check out the other stops on the Blog Tour…

Many thanks for reading my post, a like or share would be amazing 🙂 xx

A Winter Wedding at Starcross Manor by Christie Barlow @ChristieJBarlow @OneMoreChapter_ #romance #contemporaryfiction #bookreview

yvonnembee 2 Comments

I am delighted to share my review today for A Winter Wedding at Starcross Manor by Christie Barlow. I am not a big fan of reading festive books in September, but for this series, I will always ignore what season we are actually in to read the next Love Heart Lane book.

This book is due to be published 28th September 2023.

My huge thanks to One More Chapter for accepting my request to read this fabulous title via NetGalley.

Love Heart Lane – where friends are there for you no matter what

Fashion designer Libby Carter has always loved weddings, so when her brother finds himself in a bind and asks her to step in and plan the perfect winter wonderland wedding for guests at his hotel, Starcross Manor, she happily takes on the challenge. But this is no ordinary Christmas wedding and when everything starts to go awry Libby asks gorgeous videographer Guy Hart for help.

This isn’t single dad Guy’s usual gig – and he is not a fan of weddings – but saying no to vivacious Libby isn’t an option … especially when saying yes leads to one very unforgettable kiss under the mistletoe!

MY REVIEW

I think that each time I pick up a Love Heart Lane book I believe it is my next favourite. Once again this latest book in the series is my new favourite! Each book is a story in its own right, but the author has crafted her series around the people who make up this wonderfully close-knit community. Starcross Manor is at the forefront of this story with some favourite characters dropping in.

Starcross Manor is a wonderful-sounding hotel in the Scottish Highlands, run by Fergus and fiance Julie. It is his sister, Libby, who is one of the leading cast in this story as she drops in to help with organising a wedding at the manor. She is joined by Guy who is a wildlife photographer and filmmaker who owes Fergus a favour and also needs a break from his own life and problems.

Libby is a fashion designer who is due to start a new career in New York, she has built her brand from the floor up and helping Fergus with a wedding when his current planner has quit for personal reasons seems like a good fit. It gives Libby a chance to catch up with family and friends before she makes the next step.

Anyone who has read any of these books knows that, once you visit you never want to leave. It is also similar for the readers of this story because many of us never want the books to end and eagerly look forward to the next one. Now in the 12th book, the author has created a wonderful setting and a fabulous community for her fictional series and one that always welcomes you back.

Libby and Guy have chemistry from the start and it is down to a little dog that makes the initial introduction. Both of the characters have reasons for not wanting to be in a relationship and there is some great banter and flirting between the two. There is also the story of what they are trying to avoid. Each one has a story that is sad and also heartbreaking. The reasons for one of these I didn’t expect, but it actually fits well in this series.

With other characters coming back, it helps to catch up with some old favourites as well as mentions of the last book. It keeps the reader up to date with goings-on in the community and also is a great way of just nudging the memory a little.

Because the author introduces new characters in each book, it means that it is easier to remember them, some stand out more than others and there are firm regulars that you would expect. This keeps things feeling real and relevant for each book.

With the wedding plans and some shocking choices, Libby has her work cut out for her, she also has a secret project in mind. I did wonder if things would turn out how they did, but how the author led me there was a journey that had me hooked.

I adored these two new characters and the others that came with them, and I look forward to seeing where things go with them in the future as I am sure they are going to appear again.

Another wonderfully written story set in an amazing community. Full of warmth and romance but with a suspicious and shocking twist. This series and this book are brilliant and if you are a fan of romance then you are going to adore this one. If you are already a fan… you are going to love it! It is another I would definitely recommend.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Christie Barlow is the international bestselling author of twelve romantic comedies including the iconic Love Heart Lane Series, A Home at Honeysuckle Farm and Kitty’s Countryside Dream. She lives in a ramshackle cottage in a quaint village in the heart of Staffordshire with her four children and two dogs.
Her writing career has come as a lovely surprise when Christie decided to write a book to teach her children a valuable life lesson and show them that they are capable of achieving their dreams. Christie’s dream was to become a writer and the book she wrote to prove a point went on to become a #1 international bestseller in the UK, USA, Canada and Australia.
When Christie isn’t writing she enjoys playing the piano, is a keen gardener and loves to paint and upcycle furniture.
Christie is an ambassador for the @ZuriProject alongside Patron of the charity, Emmerdale’s Bhasker Patel. They raise money and awareness for communities in Uganda.

Many thanks for reading my post, a like or share would be amazing 🙂 xx

The French Chateau Dream by Julie Caplin @0neMoreChapter_ #NetGalley #romance #contemporaryfiction #bookreview

yvonnembee 2 Comments

I am delighted to share my review today for The French Chateau Dream by Julie Caplin. I have read a few of the books in this series and each one is a story in its own right.

My huge thanks to One More Chapter for accepting my request to read this title via NetGalley.

You are invited to a summer of sparkling champagne, warm buttery croissants and a little bit of je ne sais quoi… With a broken heart and a broken spirit, Hattie is in need of a summer escape. So when an opportunity comes up to work at a beautiful, stately chateau in the Champagne region of France she books her flights quicker than the pop of a cork. Romance is the last thing Hattie is looking for but then she wasn’t expecting gorgeous Luc to stroll into her life. With picnics in the warm French sun and delicious foodie trips to the local market, Hattie starts to wonder if a holiday fling – or maybe even something more – might be just what she needs

MY REVIEW

It has been far too long since I picked up a book by this author. As soon as I started this one I knew I was not putting it down until I had finished. Read in one glorious sitting.

Hatties has taken on the task of organising a wedding for her cousin, money is no object and the location is a French Chateau. When she arrives no one is expecting her, it is Luc who meets her on the doorstep and shows her around.

As the story continues, Hattie is in the midst of organising but finding things are not as she thought they would be. She is finding it difficult to get people on board but then it has also been left very short to get sorted. With the wedding looming Hatties is doing what she can to get the chateau up to speed.

Luc is too busy to help as he is trying to get the vineyard ready to start producing their own champagne again. There are heated discussions between various other people in and around the area. All in all a very fraught time.

The author brings the charm of the chateau right out of the pages, while it may be a little tired it does sound wonderful. The mentions of markets and food definitely made an impact and there are mentions of wine as you would expect.

The story has such a feel-good vibe to it and once I began I just had to keep reading. Everything about this book is fabulous from a wonderful storyline and romance to a mystery and the odd surprise.

Ideal for fans of romance, contemporary fiction and for those who just want to get away vicariously for a few hours. It is one I would definitely recommend.

Many thanks for reading my post, a like or share would be amazing 🙂 xx

The Cornish Rebel by Nicola Pryce @NPryce_Author @rararesources @CorvusBooks #Giveaway #histfic #romance #cornwall #bookreview

yvonnembee 2 Comments

I am delighted to share my review today of The Cornish Rebel by Nicola Pryce. I have read nearly all of her books in this series, they are standalone and are set in Cornwall. If you like historical fiction then this is an author you should have a look at.

My huge thanks to Rachel at Rachel’s Random Resources for my copy of the book and for my spot on the Blog Tour.

The Cornish Rebel
In the wake of her mother’s death, Pandora Woodville is desperate to escape her domineering father and finally return to Cornwall. Posing as a widow, she safely makes it across the Atlantic, bright with the dream of working at her Aunt Harriet’s school for young women. But as Pandora is soon to learn, the school is facing imminent closure after a series of sinister events threatened its reputation.

Acclaimed chemist Benedict Aubyn has also recently returned to Cornwall, to take up a new role as Turnpike Trust Surveyor. Pandora’s arrival has been a strange one, so she is grateful when he shows her kindness. As news of the school’s ruin spreads around town, everyone seems to be after her aunt’s estate. Now, Pandora and Aunt Harriet must do everything in their power to save the school, or risk losing everything.

However, Pandora has another problem. She’s falling for Benedict. But can she trust him, or is he simply looking after his own interests?
Purchase Links – Amazon UK or US

MY REVIEW

Having read most of the books in this series, I am always delighted to pick up a copy of this author’s new books. Each book can be read as a standalone and each one is a story in its own right. The Cornish Rebel is a fabulous story and one that I read in one sitting, definitely, one I could not put down.

Pandora has returned from the US where she has been living for several years. She had left Cornwall when she was young with her parents and after listening to her mother’s stories she wanted to return. After her mother’s death, she does return and she lands in Falmouth where she is to discover that things are not as her mother had said they would be. Being rebellious, as the title suggests, Pandora starts to use her way of thinking and determination to do what she can to help the failing school she was hoping to teach at.

This is such an addictive story and I found Pandora to be a character who I really liked. Not one for swooning or having ‘turns’ she is determined and at times a bit headstrong when she gets an idea. Living with her Aunt Hetty and the few staff that remain at the house she starts to discover why the school has lost its students.

Also back in Cornwall is Benedict Aubyn, a surveyor who is looking to upgrade the roads. Hoping to make transporting goods easier and trying to insure himself a good income for himself. He seems to be around when needed but this leads to a sense of untrust. Surely he must be up to something.

Once again this author has created a wonderful story and one that is captivating and I adored it. Falmouth is 9 miles from me as the crow flies, but 24 miles by road so the transport is something that was important then as it is now. Weaving this into the struggles of people in 1801 and the grain shortages was wonderful, it showed how people lived, worked and tried to make ends meet. Having lost students of the school, it was a determined Pandora who wanted to return things to how they were. She remembers a time when things were happy and is desperate to return to that.

There is some turmoil in the lives of many of the characters, Pandora has some harsh truths that will rock her. The characters of the story all have fabulous parts to play and this helps to keep the story moving. Including references to historical events and things that are happening in society at the time is great.

This is a story that is just wonderful. If you are a fan of historical fiction, sagas, romance and especially with a Cornish setting then this is an author you should take a look at. A fabulous book from start to finish and one I would definitely recommend.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Nicola Pryce trained as a nurse at St Bartholomew’s Hospital in London. She has always loved literature and completed an Open University degree in Humanities. She is a qualified adult literacy support volunteer and lives with her husband in the Blackdown Hills in Somerset. Together they sail the south coast of Cornwall in search of adventure.

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Giveaway to Win a The Cornish Rebel Tote Bag and Paperback (Open to UK Only)

CLICK HERE TO ENTER

Terms and Conditions –UK entries welcome.  Please enter using the Rafflecopter box below.  The winner will be selected at random via Rafflecopter from all valid entries and will be notified by Twitter and/or email. If no response is received within 7 days then Rachel’s Random Resources reserves the right to select an alternative winner. Open to all entrants aged 18 or over.  Any personal data given as part of the competition entry is used for this purpose only and will not be shared with third parties, with the exception of the winners’ information. This will passed to the giveaway organiser and used only for fulfilment of the prize, after which time Rachel’s Random Resources will delete the data.  I am not responsible for despatch or delivery of the prize.

Many thanks for reading my post, a like or share would be amazing 🙂 xx

A Summer Surprise at the Little Blue Boathouse by Christie Barlow @ChristieJBarlow @0neMoreChapter_ #NetGalley #romance #contemporaryfiction #LoveHeartLane #bookreview

yvonnembee 2 Comments

I am delighted to share my review today for A Summer Surprise at the Little Blue Boathouse by Christie Barlow. I adore this series and every book is a story in its own right, so yes they can be read as stand-alone books, but believe me when I say, you would be missing out on some amazing stories if you didn’t read them all 🙂

My huge thanks to One More Chapter for my e-copy that I was invited to read via NetGalley.

Publication Date – April 30th 2023

Preorder the next book in the heartwarming and bestselling Love Heart Lane series Love Heart Lane – where friends are there for you no matter what When Bea Fernsby discovers her fiancé’s eyes have been wandering, she calls off the wedding and hits the road. The village of Heartcross in the Scottish Highlands is about as far away from home as she can get, and when she stumbles into the ideal summer job at The Little Blue Boathouse and meets gorgeous vacationer Nolan Hemingway, things finally start looking up. Now, as an old mystery surfaces and Bea and Nolan band together to find out what happened to his late grandfather’s one true love, fate throws Bea some unexpected curveballs…and promising opportunities. Bea’s stay is only supposed to last a couple of weeks, but as the old saying ‘Once you arrive in Heartcross, you never want to leave…’

MY REVIEW

I love coming back to Love Heart Lane, it is very accurate when the residents of Heartcross say that once you arrive, you will never want to leave. It is a series that I adore and each book in the series is a story in its own right, but the author fills you in on what is happening with some of the other locals.

Bea Fernsy has had enough, she has jumped in her car and decided to get away from her cheating fiance and booked a stay in the B&B. It’s not the first time he has cheated, but it is the last as far as she is concerned. She needs a chance to discover who she is and what she wants to do with her life. She has lost her friends, works nights, doesn’t have a social life and has got stuck into the humdrum and mundane ruts of life. Hence the escape to Scotland and this gorgeous community.

When she arrives at Heartcross she discovers a warm welcome, everyone is so friendly. This is something she has been missing out on in her home in Staffordshire. What starts as a break to re-discover herself turns into a slightly extended stay when she takes on a holiday job at The Little Blue Boathouse. Her sister thinks that Bea has lost the plot, but Bea knows better.

I must admit if I lived somewhere like Heartcross I would not want to leave, the warm community, the welcoming atmosphere and the views. Not just the views of the mountains, lakes, and secret coves either, the view of Nolan boatowner sounds rather scenic as well!

With things changing and finding newfound freedom, she discovers that she is happy. Something that she has not felt for a long time, she isn’t the only one who looks forward to getting out of bed in the morning and seeing what the day holds either. Nolan is just passing and then will be on his way again. He is trying to find his late grandfather’s true love. He has discovered a letter for her in a box of nick-nacks. It will take bother Bea and Nolan to discover the identity of this mystery woman.

Every time I pick up one of the books in the series I am always amazed by how easily I slip back into village life. The names of friends met previously come back to say hello and then I also get to meet some newcomers. The author has made the community feel so real and when anyone new comes in they are welcomed. People have to fit in this community and Bea is a good fit from the start, everyone knows everyone and therefore they become a large extended family.

With the troubles that Bea is trying to leave behind, she is aware that Nolan is holding something back. It makes for some worrying moments in their gorgeous romantic story. Right through this storyline, there are expectations of things coming to an end, but there is also some shocks along the way as well for some of the older residents.

Once again the author has created another wonderful heartwarming story that had me grinning like a loon and I did have a few lumpy throat moments as well. It’s just the way the author brings the who setting and the characters to life as she writes that I adore. If you are a fan of romance, community, friendship and starting anew then this is a book you should look at. If you have not come across any of these books before then I urge you to add them to your shelf. Either as standalone stories or as a series in order, each one is very special. I adored her latest story about the Boathouse and I would definitely recommend it.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Christie Barlow is the international bestselling author of twelve romantic comedies including the iconic Love Heart Lane Series, A Home at Honeysuckle Farm and Kitty’s Countryside Dream. She lives in a ramshackle cottage in a quaint village in the heart of Staffordshire with her four children and two dogs.
Her writing career has come as a lovely surprise when Christie decided to write a book to teach her children a valuable life lesson and show them that they are capable of achieving their dreams. Christie’s dream was to become a writer and the book she wrote to prove a point went on to become a #1 international bestseller in the UK, USA, Canada and Australia.
When Christie isn’t writing she enjoys playing the piano, is a keen gardener and loves to paint and upcycle furniture.
Christie is an ambassador for the @ZuriProject alongside Patron of the charity, Emmerdale’s Bhasker Patel. They raise money and awareness for communities in Uganda.

Many thanks for reading my post, a like or share would be amazing 🙂 xx

The Monk by Tim Sullivan @AriesFiction @HOZ_Books #policeprocedural #murder #NetGalley #bookreview

yvonnembee

I am delighted to share my review today of The Monk by Tim Sullivan. This is part of the DS Cross series, I have not read them all but I am aware of the uniqueness of Cross and how he applies it to his work.

My huge thanks to Aries & Aria Fiction for granting my request to read this title via NetGalley.

Publication Date – 27th April 2023

To find a murderer, you need a motive . . .

THE DETECTIVE
DS George Cross has always wondered why his mother left him when he was a child. Now she is back in his life, he suddenly has answers. But this unexpected reunion is not anything he’s used to dealing with. When a disturbing case lands on his desk, he is almost thankful for the return to normality.

THE QUESTION
The body of a monk is found savagely beaten to death in a woodland near Bristol. Nothing is known about Brother Dominic’s past, which makes investigating difficult. How can Cross unpick a crime when they don’t know anything about the victim? And why would someone want to harm a monk?

THE PAST
Discovering who Brother Dominic once was only makes the picture more puzzling. He was a much-loved and respected friend, brother, son – he had no enemies. Or, at least, none that are obvious. But looking into his past reveals that he was a very wealthy man, that he sacrificed it all for his faith. For a man who has nothing, it seems strange that greed could be the motive for his murder. But greed is a sin after all . . .

Perfect for fans of M.W. Craven, Peter James and Joy Ellis, The Monk is part of the DS George Cross thriller series, which can be read in any order.

MY REVIEW

I have not read all the books in this series, but I have read one of them and found it an easy series to get into. I then seem to have missed a couple more and now come across this latest one. again another one that is easy to pick up given that it is a series. The character of DS George Cross was very easy to remember as he is socially awkward and has a very specific way of dealing with his life, those of people he knows and of the crimes he is investigating.

He is tenacious and it is this tenacity that has helped him navigate his way through tricky investigations before and will do so again this time as well. While he has always been able to look at crimes from the outside, this time he discovers a connection that makes one of his friendships a little strained.

Luckily for him, he has people around him who know how he works and he has built up a level of respect. He really is a character I like given his very literal understanding of everyday conversations, sarcasm, joking and general banter.

When the body of a monk is discovered it leads Cross and the team along a route that even surprises them. Everyone comes from somewhere and even a monk has a past, even one that has been left behind. As the team investigate there seems to be something more than first meets the eye.

Having different threads in this story the author is able to weave what would seem like a complex case. If I was to try to explain it, well it would be complex, but the way the author lays it out makes sense. Leads are followed, but not always successfully or with full understanding. Progress is slow and is hampered by not having knowledge of all the facts.

While this is a police procedural first and foremost, the author does bring in the out-of-hours or off-the-job aspect to his main characters. It is a chance to get to know more about Cross and what happened to his mum and dad when he was younger and they went their separate ways.

Being on the spectrum, Cross is shown to struggle with changes in his routines and these revelations do up skittle him. He is however a professional and is able to departmentalise so his focus is where it needs to be. Being a stickler for having every ‘I’ dotted and ‘T’ crossed he will always keep working at things that niggle him.

This is a fabulous story and as I mentioned this does not have to be read in order. It does mention this is the book blurb so I will be going back to read the previous ones I have missed. If you are a fan of crime, thriller and police procedural stories then this is one I would definitely recommend.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Tim Sullivan is an acclaimed screenwriter. He originally read English and Law at university – the latter forced on him by his Dad – but instead, he wriggled free of those parental ambitions and pursued his own, to make films. His writing credits include A HANDFUL OF DUST, starring Kristen Scott Thomas, WHERE ANGELS FEAR TO TREAD, starring Helen Mirren and Helena Bonham Carter, JACK AND SARAH (which he also directed) starring Richard E Grant, Judi Dench and Ian McKellen and LETTERS TO JULIET, with Amanda Seyfried. He is also a Television director whose credits include SHERLOCK HOLMES and COLD FEET and CORONATIONS STREET. He has written extensively in Hollywood in both live-action and animation, working with Ron Howard, Scott Rudin and Jeffrey Katzenberg on the fourth SHREK movie.

He has now embarked on a series of crime novels featuring the eccentric and socially-awkward, but brilliantly persistent DS George Cross.

He self-published the first two books and once they’d achieved over 200,000 downloads he came to the attention of Head of Zeus publishers. So thanks to all his readers for this success and their shared love of George.

The novels are set in Bristol in the southwest of England, Cross’ methods often infuriate his colleagues and superiors “not so much a thorn in my side as a pain in my arse,” according to his boss DCI Carson. But his conviction rate, thanks to his dogged persistence and attention to detail, is the best in the force. Tim has now written the first four in the series with The Patient being published on March 3rd 2022.

Tim feels confident in his claim that he is the only crime writer around who has also co-produced and written a My Little Pony movie for Hasbro. MY LITTLE PONY – A NEW GENERATION is now available on Netflix.

Tim lives in North London with his wife Rachel, the Emmy award-winning producer of THE BAREFOOT CONTESSA and PIONEER WOMAN. Their daughters live nearby.

For more stuff about Tim visit his website http://www.timsullivan.co.uk

Many thanks for reading my post, a like or share would be amazing 🙂 x

The Forgotten Beach by Amanda James @amandajames61 @OneMoreChapter_ #NetGalley #contemporaryfiction #20booksofsummer #bookreview

yvonnembee 2 Comments

I am delighted to share my review today for The Forgotten Beach by Amanda James. This is an author who writes some fabulous books, and I am really enjoying her latest ones that have a nice twist to them.

This is 2 of 20 in my #20booksofsummer reading challenge.

For Cornish artist Sennen Kellow that moment comes with the discovery of her late gran’s epic love story – a story that happened years before she ever met Sennen’s grandfather.

Now, as Sennen digs into her grandmother’s past and discovers a forgotten beach, a hidden poem, and a love that blazed brightly before Fate intervened, her search for answers leads her on a fated journey of her own. One which sees history repeating itself, and Sennen faced with a chance at the kind of once-in-a-lifetime love her gran experienced…but only if she’s willing to risk everything.

On the forgotten beach at the edge of the land,
lies a forgotten treasure beneath the sand.
A cup of kindness for Auld Lang Syne,
Sweeter than the finest wine.
In a parting glass from years gone by,
Dwells a magic strange to you and I.
Sup it down before you part,
to find the truth within your heart. 

MY REVIEW

Oh, Amanda James, you have once again written a wonderful book. This one was absolutely fabulous.

Sennen Kellow is a local artist and shop owner. She is given a poem that her grandmother had written, there is a secret beach local to her. The only way to get to it is through the grounds of an old property, when her curiosity finally gets the better of her, Sennen decides to have a look and see what she can find out.

This is where she meets the rather abrupt, aloof and brusque owner of the property. A London lawyer who isn’t exactly charming, but does grant her a tour of the house and grounds. Not wanting to discuss why she actually has an interest in visiting as he doesn’t appear to be very open or pleasant.

The author has woven a tale that spans the generations and gives a wonderful account of families of the past. A time when money and status were paramount and marriage for love was worth nothing. The story gradually emerges and it is one that has some wonderful heartwarming moments as well as moments marred by grief.

While the situation for Sennen is intriguing, the author twists a wonderful comparison between the past and the present. It drew me further into the story and at times left me nervously turning the pages wondering if history would repeat itself.

I loved this sense of tension and the uncertainty that the author injects into this story. Using the past and the present, with mystery and romance and then twisting certain things to create a captivating story.

This is one for readers who love to read a contemporary fiction style story, that has echoes of the past, with a complicated and not necessarily straightforward romantic angle. I have to say this is a fabulous read and I loved to see mentions of characters from other books mentioned. While this is part of a series, you could read this as a standalone. But, if you did you would miss out on some wonderful storytelling from one of my favourite authors.

A cracking read from the first to the last page and also the author’s notes add a wonderful touch at the end. I would definitely recommend this book. 

The books in the series are…

Each of these can be read as stand-alone books as they are stories in their own right.

Many thanks for reading my post, a like or share would be amazing 🙂 xx

Sweet Love and Country Roads by Camilla Isley @rararesources #romance #contemporaryfiction #bookreview

yvonnembee 1 Comment

I am delighted to share my review today for Sweet Love and Country Roads by Camilla Isley. This is the 7th book in the series, I have not read them all, but they do work as stand-alone.

My huge thanks to Rachel at Rachel’s Random Resources for my spot on the Blog Tour and for arranging for my e-copy of this fabulous book.

Falling for the wrong cowboy never felt so good . . .

Samantha Baker is a high-flying movie producer living in New York City. She loves her shoes, drinking cosmopolitans, and wouldn’t trade the comforts of city life for anything in the world. But when her job is put on the line, Samantha has no other choice than to move to the middle of nowhere to straighten out the filming of her latest romantic comedy blockbuster.

Her new country home has no Starbucks, no Pilates, and the one pub in town has never heard of appletinis—only serves beer and whiskey neat. On the plus side, the views are scenic. And not just for the aerial shots, as the local eye-candy provides a welcome distraction.

At least until Samantha discovers a native cowboy, Travis Hunt, is the source of all her troubles…

And the battle begins.

Each has something the other wants, but as Samantha and Travis go head to head, they might discover the endgame has changed. When hate turns to heat, all becomes fair in love and war for these two sworn enemies who’ve been playing a game of hearts.

But will a roll in the hay be enough to make Samantha decide there’s no sex in the city and convert to country living? 


Purchase Links – Amazon – Apple – Barnes & Noble – Kobo – Google Play

MY REVIEW

This is the 7th book in the First Comes Love series, they can be read as stand-alone and they are a lot of fun to read, not that I have read all of them btw!

The synopsis for this book is one that really sums up the atmosphere, style and humour that the author has injected into her characters and also the storyline. If you like fun, romance, and rom-com stories about battles of the wills and of the hearts then this is one for you.

Samantha is a city girl. all shoes, outfits, cocktails, everything on tap type of girl. While she has got her city smarts they don’t help her when she relocates to the middle of nowhere. Especially when it comes to Travis. Their first meeting is not good, a cow may have been at fault here! What Samantha lacks in country ways she more than makes up for in quick put-downs and retorts. Well, she thinks she does until she comes up against Travis. If a man had sass then he is full of it with cheeky smirks.

Little does she realise that they will have to work together to achieve the end results they are both hoping for. Travis has plenty going for him and is a busy chap indeed, but not that busy that he can’t find time to wind up Samantha.

This is a fabulously entertaining book, with quick-witted banter, innuendos and the fact they both find something interesting about each other. The author does throw the odd spanner in the works, and the romantic tension is definitely in the air, does it go further than that… well read the book!

The author has woven two different lifestyles and characters together to create a brilliant story. There are obviously other characters, and these are also great as well. They add their own opinions, banter and advice, adding to the fun of the story.

Overall this is a great lighthearted romantic comedy that had me chuckling several times. It has that fabulous “will they/ won’t they” scenario to it and it was one that had me hooked. I would definitely recommend this book.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Camilla is an engineer who left science behind to enter the whimsical realm of romantic fiction.

She writes contemporary rom-coms. Her characters have big hearts, might be a little stubborn at times, and love to banter with each other. Every story she pens has a guaranteed HEA that will make your heart beat faster. Unless you’re a vampire, of course.

Camilla is a cat lover, coffee addict, and shoe hoarder. Besides writing, she loves reading—duh!—cooking, watching bad TV, and going to the movies—popcorn, please. She’s a bit of a foodie, nothing too serious. A keen traveller, Camilla knows mosquitoes play a role in the ecosystem, and she doesn’t want to starve all those frog princes out there, but she could really live without them.


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Sapphire by Heather Burnside @heatherbwriter @AriesFiction #NetGalley #crime #thriller

yvonnembee

I am delighted to share my review today for Sapphire by Heather Burnside. This is a gangland crime thriller and part of The Working Girls series, but this book can be read as a stand-alone.

My huge thanks to Andrew Knowles for getting in touch regarding this Aries Fiction publication via NetGalley.

TWO SISTERS ALONE.

Sophie and Kelsey have always had each other. When their mum is diagnosed with cancer and their dad fails to step up, they’re forced to move into the care system. But Sophie knows they’ll be okay as long as she’s there to protect her sister.

ONE FINAL CHANCE.

But when Kelsey is found a foster family and Sophie can’t join her, Sophie’s left in an unsafe situation in the home, forced to do things against her will. Finding her own foster family feels like a relief, but it’s short-lived when her trust in her new foster parents is betrayed.

NO GOING BACK.

With nowhere to turn, Sophie finds herself homeless. But when she finds her new street family, Sophie joins the working girls and her new identity as Sapphire is complete. It’s a hard life working the streets, especially when those around her look to take advantage, but can the dream of one day finding Kelsey keep her going?

MY REVIEW

This is an author who is new to me and so I was intrigued when I saw this book. Even though it is part of a series it is one that can be read as a stand-alone.

Sapphire is the name of Sophie, older sister to Kelsey. Life goes from bad to worse for the pair when their mother dies and their father wants nothing to do with them as he has a new family. The girl’s des[erately want to remain together but it is hard to find places for teens, so when Kelsey is offered a place with a foster family Sophie lets her go.

As the story continues life for Sophie doesn’t go the way it did for her sister, the two slowly drift. The point where Sophie becomes Sapphire is further in the story. It is a heartbreaking story and one that was tough to read. Unfortunately, it is one that could very easily be true. It is the story of how a teen finds herself alone, on the streets and homeless.

The author has given a very harrowing account of Sapphire and her experiences, the hardships the dangers and the addictions. It is one way of showing how living in a nice warm and comfy home can go wrong and that all the things that follow are a downward spiral.

The author takes the reader into a world of poverty, drugs, destitution, prostitution and death. It is not a pretty world or a nice one to read about. All the while I thought this is how easy it could be if you are completely alone and think you have no choices or options. It does have a grim reality to it.

This is a gangland styler crime thriller, it is brutal and does explore various aspects of homelessness and living as best you can. It is quite an addictive read and one I found very difficult to put down. It is one I would recommend. 

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Her Previous Self by Anne Allen @AnneAllen21 #historicalfiction #bookreview

yvonnembee 2 Comments

I am delighted to share my review today for Her Previous Self by Anne Allen. I was very fortunate to win a signed paperback copy of this book during Anne’s recent Blog Tour with Rachel’s Random Resources. Although I do own several copies from this series it is actually the first time I have read one! I will also add that it will not be the last time 🙂

Mary, miserable in her marriage to Thomas Carre, a merchant and privateer and living in the new family mansion in Georgian Guernsey.
Lucy, separated from her husband after a tragic loss and now acting as an unwilling sitter for her elderly grandfather, Gregory Carre, who has inherited the same mansion.
Lucy is haunted by Mary’s continued presence in the house and finds herself being pulled more and more back in time. How is it possible for her to live as Mary? To experience scenes from her tragic life? Lucy is forced to come to terms with Mary’s grief as well as her own.
The more enmeshed she becomes the more anxious Lucy is to discover the truth. Why is Mary still restless? What caused her mysterious disappearance two hundred years ago?

And can Lucy move on from her own loss to find happiness again?

MY REVIEW

This is the first time I have read a book by this author, although I do own 3 or 4 from the Guernsey series. This is book 8 in the series and from what I can see with this latest book, they can be read as stand-alone books.

This is a mix of present-day and historical fiction. The present-day is set with Lucy returning home to Guernsey and she keeps her Grandfather company while her parents take a break. Lucy is tired, feeling alone and is grieving. The house in which she returns is one that has been in the family for generations. One of those ancestors is Mary, there is a mystery surrounding her. There is a date of birth, a marriage date and then a blank as to when she died.

This is told in a timeslip format, and not quite the usual back and forth format. I have to say it worked really well for me and I don’t know which character I wanted to know more about each time. When I was reading about Lucy I needed to know more about Mary, and vice versa.

I did like the historical side of this story, set in a regency style it is one that has heartbreaking revelations. The characters in this era are a mix of really good and also downright wicked. In the present day, the characters are mainly good, although there is the odd one or two who did annoy me a very small amount due to their attitudes.

Overall a great story and one that I really enjoyed reading over a couple of days. One for fans of historical fiction and romance, with a historical fantasy streak to it. Very enjoyable reading and it is an author to who I will be returning and one I would happily recommend.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Anne Allen lives in Devon, by her beloved sea. She has three children and her daughter and two grandchildren live nearby. She was born in Rugby, to an English mother and Welsh father. As a result she spent many summers with her Welsh grandparents in Anglesey and learnt to love the sea. Her restless spirit has meant a number of moves which included Spain for a couple of years. The longest stay was in Guernsey for nearly fourteen years after falling in love with the island and the people. She contrived to leave one son behind to ensure a valid reason for frequent returns.
By profession Anne was a psychotherapist but has long had creative ‘itches’, learning to mosaic, paint furniture, interior design and sculpt. At the back of her mind the itch to write was always present but seemed too time-consuming for a single mum with a need to earn a living. Now retired from the ‘day job’, there’s more time to write.