Category Friendship

One Perfect Summer by Lucy Coleman @emblabooks #NetGalley #romance #contemporaryfiction #bookreview

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I am delighted to share my review today of One Perfect Summer by Lucy Coleman. It has been a while since I have picked up a book by this author, she writes some fabulous books and her latest one is no exception.

My huge thanks to Embla Books who granted my request to read this title via NetGalley.

Summer doesn’t last forever, but can a perfect one change your life?

For successful estate agent Freya Henderson, life is all work and no play. But, when she crosses paths with carefree young surfer, Luke Stevenson, there’s no denying the attraction between them.

When Luke invites her to join him on a working holiday in France, it’s a real dilemma. Is it time to throw caution to the wind? Perhaps an enchanting summer fling with no strings attached would be a great way to de-stress and finally allow herself some fun.

As he takes her on a magical mystery tour of gorgeous locations among stunning châteaux, picturesque villages and sun-kissed vineyards, Freya can’t help feeling there’s something missing in her life… perhaps even a man like Luke.

But how well does she know him? Is he just looking for a summer adventure, or is he running away from something?

As the summer draws to a close, can Freya and Luke simply slip back into their old lives, or will they be left wondering ‘What if?’

Maybe this summer romance never has to end…

MY REVIEW

It has been far too long since I last picked up a book by this author. This one is a wonderful story with fabulous settings and some sumptuous foods.

Freya is in her 30s, but listening to her you would think she was a lot older. She is a partner in estate agents in Kent with her childhood friend. Together they have worked hard to get their business up and running and to make it successful. This means long hours and very little time for relaxation. Trying to relax, Freya starts to go to a gym where she meets Luke. He is a few years younger and seems so carefree, he could be mistaken for someone with no care in the world.

After getting to know each other, he finally asks how she would like to join him for two months on a working holiday in France. Being someone who is ordered, likes to have plans and wants to what she is doing the next moment, day, week or month ahead, Freay is unsure. Deciding that this could be a chance to take a much-needed break, Freya agrees. Things are sorted for her break and she joins Luke.

This was a wonderful story and one that took me around vineyards, farms, manors, markets and a quieter way of life. That doesn’t mean to say it was an amble around rural France, because Luke takes her around his friends’ properties. This is not the first time he has made this trip and it is a chance to catch up with his friends. They are all so welcoming of Luke and of Freya.

There is an undertone to this story and this is something that is consistent. What does Luke actually do, what is his past and why does he travel as he does? For Freya, it is her experiencing things that she is not in control of.

As they travel and work together they become close, while Freya struggles with the slight age difference and Luke is desperate to prove her wrong. Throughout the story, there is this tentative balance between friendship and something wanting to be more.

The story has a wonderful pace to it, the slower way of life but it still with plenty going on. I adored the different settings and the idyllic feel that the author managed to instil throughout the summer journey. Then the backdrop of the real world and being an adult with responsibilities for Freya. There are some good characters to meet and while they are not many they are wonderful and have a part to play in the story.

I adored this book and the story, it’s one of those stories that is heartwarming and was an absolute pleasure to read. If you are a fan of romance and contemporary fiction then this is one you should have a look at. I would definitely recommend it.

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

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 Fresh Start at Wagging Tails Dogs’ Home by Sarah Hope #NetGalley @boldwoodbooks #romance #romcom #bookreview

yvonnembee 2 Comments

I am delighted to share my review today of A Fresh Start at Waggin Tails Dogs’ Home by Sarah Hope. This is a wonderful story and the 3rd in the series but it reads well as a stand-alone.

My huge thanks to Boldwood Books for accepting my request to review this title via NetGalley.

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

This is the 3rd book in the series and, as is often the case, the first one I have read. This is one of those books that has a wonderful feel and I have read other series that give that same sense of community.

The story is set around Wagging Tails Dogs’ Home, a rescue centre for pouches who are lost, found or needing some care. I will say the author obviously loves her doggy cast and she has definitely done her research into how this type of establishment is run. As a dog owner and dog lover this is impressive and also adds to the overall importance of the message behind the story.

The fields alongside the Dogs’ Home have been bought and Flora, the owner of the Dogs’ Home, is being pressured into selling up. Flora has run this home for many years and remembers all the dogs that have passed through her gates and gone on to be re-homed. Selling up is not an option for her.

Sally is one of those who work with Flora and she left her very different career to do what she loves and works with the dogs to train them and their owners. Let’s be honest here, it is often the owners that need training, our dog Billy has spent years training us so that we know when he is asking for a treat, to be let out or wants you to chase him around the garden because he has just pinched a sock! But on a serious note, the author does have some points to make about training.

Sally, sorry I got a little sidetracked… she has been working at the home and loves her life. A blast from her past suddenly comes back into the picture and she is in turmoil about it. She also has some news from home that rocks her.

The story ambles along at a wonderful pace, bringing in characters and other threads. All the time the author shows a sense of family and friendship. It is a story and a series that many fans of romance, rom-com and contemporary fiction will enjoy. It is light-hearted but with some serious things as well. Gorgeous story and one I would definitely recommend.

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

Last Orders at Mulberry Lane by Rosie Clark @AnneHerries @rararesources @BoldwoodBooks #historicalfiction #bookreview

yvonnembee

I am delighted to share my review today of Last Orders at Mulberry Lane y Rosie Clark. This is the 10th and final book in the series and it is one for those who like historical romance and fiction.

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.

MY REVIEW

This is the 10th and final book in the Mulberry Lane series, not bad as it was only due to be a trilogy. I am so glad it lasted longer than the original 3 planned books.

Last Orders at Mulberry Lane is a book that enjoys memories from the past but also about what the future holds for the community in Mulberry Lane. Families have lived, grown up and had children of their own and are welcoming the next generation into the world. As some arrive others pass as is the way of things.

The lanes have been the focus of the story but it is about the community within not just the area. This final book brings the series into the ’60s, and while changes are going on our group does not get caught up in the wilder side of life. They have focus and are either hard studying or have other responsibilities to deal with. That doesn’t mean that they are straight-laced and prudish though.

The book was a goodbye but also it was a way to move on and this for me was done so well. The author could have easily been caught up with the “what was” but also focused on the future and the different options and prospects open to the families and community. Remembering that this was a community that went through the bombing of the war and it brought a special bond and friendship over the years.

This is a book about families and also how things have changed socially. There are new relationships and things for the next generation to look forward to. But for the Mulberry Lane Community, it is a chance to have a final get-together with friends.

If you are a fan of historical romance and fiction then this is a series I would recommend. It has been a wonderful journey and not only would I recommend this book but also the whole series.

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

The Guernsey Girls by Mary Wood @AuthorMary @PanMacmillan #historicalfiction #romance #bookreview

yvonnembee 14 Comments

I am delighted to share my review today for The Guernsey Girls by Mary Wood. This is the first book in the series and it is a fabulous story of family and friendship.

My huge thanks to Chloe at Pan Macmillan for arranging a copy and for my spot on the Blog Tour.

January 1936. After the hard work of being a maid at Wallington Manor in the lead-up to Christmas, Annie is very excited at the prospect of going home to Bethnal Green. She has missed her family, but the money she earns keeps them all afloat.

Harriet, is from the island of Guernsey and is visiting her aunt at Wallington Manor. When she has to leave for London Annie is asked to look after her. On the train journey a friendship blossoms.

And when an accident happens their friendship is made even stronger. A friendship that would see both girls through pain, happiness, marriage and death. A friendship that would see them both united in Guernsey. But this is just the beginning of their incredible journey . . .

MY REVIEW

This is a fabulous book about family and friendship. Beginning in 1936, Annie is a maid and is due to travel from Guernsey back to her family in London. Olivia is also due to travel so plans are made for them to travel together. Annie is to be the maid and companion to Olivia during the journey. The train crashes and Annie manages to get out and take Olivia with her. Due to her heroic actions, Annie is given the chance to change her life and not just be the maid but become a friend to Olivia. They both rely on each other and have shared an experience that has brought them close. This friendship provides not only Annie but also her family a chance to improve their way of life.

This is another fabulous story from this author and I have read many of her books. This one shows the differences between two social classes and how one accident can change their relationship in the future. Olivia has a fiance and he is nervous about what is going on in Europe as he is a German by birth. Annie has an admirer who knows her from when she was younger. Relationships blossom and plans are in the making for their futures.

If you have read any of this author’s books then you will know that her romances never run straight, there are always kinks and obstacles in the way that need to be overcome. This book is no exception, the train brought the girls together but they will need each other many more times in the following years during this story.

The author brings the way of life at the time to life, exploring the past and giving voices to her characters. There are several characters and you just can’t help but adore some of them. You soon become concerned about what is happening to them and what they have to go through.

This is a fabulous story and one that fans of historical fiction, family drama and romance books. It is one I would happily recommend.

About the author

Born the thirteenth child of fifteen to a middle-class mother and an East End barrow boy, Mary Wood’s childhood was a mixture of love and poverty. Throughout her life, Mary has held various posts in office roles, working in the probation services and bringing up her four children and numerous grandchildren, step-grandchildren and great-grandchildren. An avid reader, she first put pen to paper in 1989 while nursing her mother through her final months, but didn’t become successful until she began self-publishing her writing in 2011.

Check out the other stops on the Blog Tour…

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

The Ice Angel by Misha Herwin @MishaHerwin #fantasy #fiction #youngadult #publicationday #bookreview

yvonnembee 1 Comment

I am delighted to share my review today for The Ice Angel by Misha Herwin. This is the 6th book in the Letty Parker series and it is fabulous, to be honest, the whole series is fabulous.

I would like to thank the author for sending me the latest copy of her book for me to review. My opinion is my own and unbiased. I would also like to wish Misha a very Happy Publication Day 🙂

A frantic message from her absent Ma sets Letty on a perilous course to the northern lands, pursued every step of the way by vengeful Dark Ones. Once again her life is in danger – except that this time even Gabriel seems to have deserted her. Marooned and alone, in a land of ice and snow that is ruled by the cold and callous Ice Angel, Letty must rely on her wits and courage to survive. In Bristol, her fellow investigators at Letty Parker & Associates have problems of their own as Hepzibah battles Mr Murkstone, her sinister new guardian, for control of both her business and her beloved Aunt. Hepzibah’s entire world could be lost as she joins forces with Jeb and Mango in a desperate race to foil Mr Murkstone’s evil plans. Two friends a continent apart – both fighting the Dark Ones with everything at stake and so little time left to succeed.

MY REVIEW

This is the 6th book in this series and it is another absolutely fabulous story. This series is aimed at Young Adults, but Older Adult adores it. A mix of fantasy, mystery, action and adventure.

Letty Parher & Associates is a group that investigates mysteries and they have had some corkers over the previous books. This latest one though takes the danger up a notch as the Dark Ones have more of a sinister role to play.

Letty is sent a message that her mother needs help, this will involve her sailing to another country. Meanwhile, Hepzibah has her own troubles with her Aunt as a stranger seems to have got his foot well and truly in the door, and his nose into Hepzibah’s family business.

With the help of Mango, Jeb and others the group are trying their hardest to discover what exactly is going on. With the investigating teens split between two countries and with forces that they still need to understand, they certainly have their work cut out for them.

From the outset this book is action-packed, there are quick re-caps where necessary but the story flows from the first page right through. The Bristol of the author’s stories is one that has a whole range of creatures lurking, skulking and generally being a nuisance. There are also friendlies such as the dragons, Bears and a certain Gabriel.

The story flows back and forth from one case to the other, filling in important information and keeping up a breakneck pace. If you have read any of these books then you will be aware of the various phrases and characters, they are still around and more villains have been brought in. Such as the Ice Angel!

Having read and loved each of the books, this one is another fabulous episode. Full of drama, tension, danger, slinking, lurking and creeping. I know that young adult readers who pick this series up will enjoy it as much as I have. This is another book I would definitely recommend.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Misha Herwin is a writer of books for adults and children.
They vary from time-slip to contemporary women’s fiction, family saga and children’s fantasy adventures.
All her books are set in Bristol, whether real, imaginary or remembered from her childhood.

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

Finding Family at the Cornish Cove by Kim Nash #romance #contemporaryfiction #romcom #bookreview

yvonnembee 3 Comments

I am delighted to share my review of Finding Family at the Cornish Cove by Kim Nash. This is the 2nd book in the series and it is a wonderful book to cosy down to read.

For years, Gemma has been running her late mother’s café with devotion, and when an opportunity comes to buy out her next-door neighbour and expand, she jumps at the chance.

She knows she will do her mother proud – keep her legacy going strong – but deep down she knows there’s still something missing. But sometimes family are those you choose, or those who choose you!

With a growing community of supporters cheering Gemma on, will she really spend the rest of her life alone?

And with some new faces at her blossoming bistro, perhaps romance may also be on the cards?

MY REVIEW

What a delight it was to return to Driftwood Bay, this is the second book in the series and you could read it as a stand-alone as it works well. Having read the first book though, and loving it, I would suggest reading it as it was another gorgeous story.

Gemma has been running her Mum’s cafe after the death of her Mum. She has put a lot of hard work into it and it is time to make a new step forward. Gemma has been through a lot in the past and it is with some trepidation she decides to expand. Always in the back of her mind is the memory of her Mum and she often wonders what she would have thought of Gemma’s ideas.

There is a newcomer into the Bay and he has his own bag full of problems, they are not as straightforward or as obvious as you would first think. Then there is Lucy, Gemma’s sister who is also thinking of the future. Behind all of this is a secret that Gemma has been holding onto. Letting it out could be heartbreaking, but this is something she wants to keep to herself.

It was great to be able to reconnect with some of the characters from the first book, Clem and Meredith pop up regularly and add to the overall friendly feel of this gorgeous-sounding bay. gemma’s cafe sounds wonderful as does the new look extension.

This is a story from Gemma’s point of view, it is her story and brings up things from her past. She has not put them to rest and there are things that she does need to deal with, these sorts of things tend to arise at the most inconsiderate of moments. But it will give her the chance to meet them head-on, even though at the time she would rather avoid them.

I adore this author’s books, they are full of warmth and with this one, family is well and truly at the centre. There are various family issues from various sources and this made for interesting reading. I did kind of work out connections, but the lightness of the story made the reading enjoyable. If you are a fan of cosy family and romance novels with a few chuckles thrown in then this is one for you. Some great new characters that liven up the Bay. Looking forward to the next one and I would happily recommend this one.

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

The Book of Beginnings by Sally Page @HarperCollins #fiction #historicalfiction #contemporaryfiction #NetGalley #bookreview

yvonnembee 4 Comments

I am delighted to share my review today for a very special book. The Book of Beginnings by Sally Page is an amazing story that blends, friendship, mystery and a cemetery together to create a story that I adored everything about.

My huge thanks to Harper Collins for accepting my request to review this title via NetGalley.

From the author of the phenomenal bestseller The Keeper of Stories, comes the next uplifting story of how the most unexpected friendships are forged in the most unlikely of places . . .

Jo Sorsby knows she is hiding from her past when she steps in to look after her uncle’s stationery shop. Glimpsing the lives of her customers between the warm wooden shelves, as they scribble notes with fountain pens and browse colourful notebooks, distracts her from the life she has left behind.

Yet far from home, Jo feels adrift . . .

When she meets Ruth, a vicar running from a secret, and Malcolm, a septuagenarian struggling to write his first book, she realises that she isn’t alone.

It’s the beginning of a friendship that can transform Jo’s life . . . if only she can let them in.

MY REVIEW

Occasionally you come across a story that is quiet, mesmerising and totally addictive. The Book of Beginnings is just such a book, it is beautifully written and one that completely wraps you up in the story of the characters.

Jo is taking over the running of her Uncle’s stationary shop, it has a mix of stationary and other odds ‘n sods. Jo loves stationary and spent many happy childhood days in this shop. With her Uncle being diagnosed with dementia she decides to turn this shop into a proper stationary shop. She gets to know her two neighbours, a tattooist and an optician and also meets some interesting characters. The two main ones are Ruth and Malcolm, both very different in their mannerisms and the way they look at life.

Jo soon finds herself becoming friends with them and together they embark on a journey. Not a journey in the physical sense as such, but one that leads them to make some wonderful discoveries about themselves. In the process of this, Malcolm has a side project and this is a brilliant idea and involves some of the people buried in Highgate Cemetary. In bringing this aspect into the story, the author not only provides a historical slant but also gives the characters something to bond over.

This is a stunning story and one that captivated me from the first few pages. In some ways, this story is about people who come together and get to know each other. But it is also so much more than that, the author has created such a warmth within her characters. There is a bit of mystery to all of them and some honest advice is given when needed. This trio are simply brilliant together given the differences in age, past histories, beliefs and life experiences. But together they just work and they work so well.

There are family and friends that come and go, this is more for Jo rather than Ruth or Malcolm, but again with having two good friends beside her Jo is able to see things from a different perspective.

I adored this book so much and it was one of those books that just wraps you up in its pages. Stunning story, with memorable characters and an absolute pleasure to read. I would highly recommend this one.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

After studying history at university, Sally moved to London to work in advertising. In her spare time she studied floristry at night school and eventually opened her own flower shop. Sally came to appreciate that flower shops offer a unique window into people’s stories and she began to photograph and write about this floral life in a series of non-fiction books. Later, she continued her interest in writing when she founded her fountain pen company, Plooms.co.uk.

In her debut novel, The Keeper of Stories, Sally combines her love of history and writing with her abiding interest in the stories people have to tell. Sally now lives in Dorset. Her eldest daughter, Alex, is studying to be a doctor and her younger daughter is the author, Libby Page. Both are keen wild swimmers.

Many thanks for reading my review, 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

A Sparrow Falls by Wilbur Smith @thewilbursmith #TeamWilbur @Tr4cyF3nt0n @ZaffreBooks #historicalfiction #TheCourtneys #bookreview

yvonnembee

I am delighted to share my review today for A Sparrow Falls by Wilbur Smith. This is the 3rd book in The Courtney series and I am loving the chance to re-read this historic fiction series.

My huge thanks to Tracy at Compulsive Readers for the chance to join in the year-long marketing tour and for arranging my copy of the book from Zaffre Books.

A Sparrow Falls, another gripping installment in Wilbur Smith’s Courtney Family Adventure series

Mark Anders grew up on eight thousand acres of African land that bore his family name. Then he fought in Europe’s Great War and, upon returning to his ancestral home, he saw savagery unlike any other….

In Africa, Mark’s family estate has been despoiled. His grandfather has died under mysterious circumstances. And he has inherited a murderous enemy–the rogue scion of the powerful Courtney clan–in an altogether new kind of war.

Now, Mark will make a fateful choice between two women. Journey into the wilderness to uncover his grandfather’s fate. Find his way through battles raging between fathers and sons, generals and politicians, and nature and man. In an age of violent conflict, Mark Anders will live or die for justice–and his fight will echo across a country he always loved….

MY REVIEW

This is the 3rd book in The Courtney series and follows the life, family, friends and enemies of Sean Courtney. A new character is introduced that takes a centre-stage style position in this book and is that of Mark Anders. The first meeting is during The Great War and Mark is a sniper. He was born and raised in South Africa and built an excellent marksman reputation. Sean Courtney comes across him at the battlefield and then they meet up again when they are back home in South Africa.

Mark had been looking forward to returning home only to discover he has no home, his grandfather has died and there is no estate to come to Mark. Something is not right and this is confirmed when someone tried to kill Mark. Fleeing again he goes to live with his friend Fergus, they fought together and know each other well. Fergus is part of the Communist party and while some of their policies sit right and Mark agrees with most of it, there are some tactics that do not. This leads him back to Sean.

This is another fabulous book in the series and the author writes with a passion for the country he loves. This period of African history is one that is violent, unrelenting and dangerous. Dirk Courtney is hellbent on making himself well-known and achieving more than his father Sean in all aspects. Dirk is the thorn in Sean’s side and Dirk is not averse to using underhand methods. A schemer, planner and cutthroat in business with a firm hand.

The author tells the story with a brutality that matches the time, there are some sections that are tough reading but it is in fact part of the history and should be acknowledged as happening.

The pacing of the story fluctuates and at times it is so fast you race to keep up and at others, there is time for contemplation and seeing things from the perspectives of the characters. The story touches on the evolving landscape and how man is encroaching on nature and wildlife. Noticing dwindling numbers in the game and how man is impacting the environment is mentioned. Nothing has changed but it is good to acknowledge that the writing of the time and historical mentions of landscape changes are mentioned.

This is an action-packed adventure story from start to finish. It tells of the world and way of life and the changes that are at the forefront of the times. Advances in technology, medicine and also the power and greed that is overtaking local people.

Historical fiction as well as a touch of romance, with dangerous situations and people. Battles, conflict, rivalry and disputes are balanced with life, love and hopes for better futures. Another excellent story in the series and it is one I am definitely going to recommend.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Wilbur Smith was the bestselling author of many novels, each researched on his numerous expeditions worldwide. His bestselling Courtney series includes Assegai, The Sound of Thunder, Birds of Prey, Monsoon, and Blue Horizon. His other books include Those in Peril, River God, Warlock, The Seventh Scroll, and The Sunbird.

His books have been translated into twenty-six languages and have sold over 120 million copies. Smith was born to a British family in Northern Rhodesia, now Zambia, in Central Africa, and attended Rhodes University in South Africa. By the time of his death in 2021 he had published 49 books and had sold more than 140 million copies.

Wilbur Smith died at his Cape Town home on November 13, 2021. He was 88 years old at the time of his death.

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