Melody moved back to Sandcastle Bay after her twin’s sudden death, helping her sister Isla raise his son Ethan. Having her own jewelry design businessMelody moved back to Sandcastle Bay after her twin’s sudden death, helping her sister Isla raise his son Ethan. Having her own jewelry design business in London was vastly different from the small shop she has now, a shop that mixes her flair for design and fun with more traditional offerings and her own welcoming displays. Melody’s got her best friend Tori, her sister Isla, her nephew Ethan and plenty of friends in the Jackson family, as well as a new puppy, one of eleven born to a couple of strays in the village. Best of all, she’s got her friend (and major crush) Jamie, with his sculpture workshop across the way: available for a chat, a laugh and plenty of consideration.
Jamie is a sculptor and a collector of animals, he’s got 4 dogs all named after Harry Potter characters, and a turkey named Dobby who tends to wander. Jamie’s far different from others in his family: he’s not interested in relationships or commitments, and won’t allow anyone to get close enough to hurt him, again. But there’s this ‘thing’ with Melody, and that one kiss they shared the night of Mathew’s funeral, that he can’t get out of his head. That aside, he loves Melody’s heart, her caring and daring, her creativity and determination to make a go of her small shop, and just how well she fits into life at Sandcastle Bay.
This is a story of friendship and trust, taking chances and truly seeing, perhaps for the first time, just how others perceive you- lumps, bumps and all. Both Jamie and Melody have insecurities and issues: Melody’s mother and her lack of kind or encouraging words after her husband left that family wounded her daughter deeply, and while she claims to be over the hurt, it’s never far from the surface, convinced if she could only be ‘better, or more like everyone else, she’d find that unconditional love she longs for. And yet, Jamie sees all of her good, isn’t bothered by her mishaps (as more than one person said, he’s so laid back he’s horizontal) and, best of all, he loves her beyond reason, even if he can’t say it.
And, making this back and forth between them even more delicious, we see plenty of Tori and Aidan as their relationship moves on to the next level. Time with Ethan and his new fascination with the magic kit that Leo bought him, not to mention his ability to focus in n (as kids do) with the one item in a conversation you don’t want to discuss in public, and his conversations with adults and his best friend Marigold. Aunt Agatha with her advice, stories and nudges, all well-meant if exceedingly embarrassing to the focus of her attention, and lastly Leo and Isla: Leo who loves Isla but can’t say the words, despite proposing at regular intervals, and Isla who won’t marry JUST for security – oh everyone gets moment (or three) to shine, bringing characters and readers alike into a big, warm and welcoming hug. Sure, none of the moments are without their challenges, and the overarching presence of Matthew, who brought them all together posthumously adds a bittersweet note, but this little series is a go-to grab when you want to make new friends, join in their happiness, and enjoy time away at the beach.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher for purpose of honest review I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Melody moved back to Sandcastle Bay after her twin’s sudden death, helping her sister Isla raise his son Ethan. Having her own jewelry design business in London was vastly different from the small shop she has now, a shop that mixes her flair for design and fun with more traditional offerings and her own welcoming displays. Melody’s got her best friend Tori, her sister Isla, her nephew Ethan and plenty of friends in the Jackson family, as well as a new puppy, one of eleven born to a couple of strays in the village. Best of all, she’s got her friend (and major crush) Jamie, with his sculpture workshop across the way: available for a chat, a laugh and plenty of consideration.
Jamie is a sculptor and a collector of animals, he’s got 4 dogs all named after Harry Potter characters, and a turkey named Dobby who tends to wander. Jamie’s far different from others in his family: he’s not interested in relationships or commitments, and won’t allow anyone to get close enough to hurt him, again. But there’s this ‘thing’ with Melody, and that one kiss they shared the night of Mathew’s funeral, that he can’t get out of his head. That aside, he loves Melody’s heart, her caring and daring, her creativity and determination to make a go of her small shop, and just how well she fits into life at Sandcastle Bay.
This is a story of friendship and trust, taking chances and truly seeing, perhaps for the first time, just how others perceive you- lumps, bumps and all. Both Jamie and Melody have insecurities and issues: Melody’s mother and her lack of kind or encouraging words after her husband left that family wounded her daughter deeply, and while she claims to be over the hurt, it’s never far from the surface, convinced if she could only be ‘better, or more like everyone else, she’d find that unconditional love she longs for. And yet, Jamie sees all of her good, isn’t bothered by her mishaps (as more than one person said, he’s so laid back he’s horizontal) and, best of all, he loves her beyond reason, even if he can’t say it.
And, making this back and forth between them even more delicious, we see plenty of Tori and Aidan as their relationship moves on to the next level. Time with Ethan and his new fascination with the magic kit that Leo bought him, not to mention his ability to focus in n (as kids do) with the one item in a conversation you don’t want to discuss in public, and his conversations with adults and his best friend Marigold. Aunt Agatha with her advice, stories and nudges, all well-meant if exceedingly embarrassing to the focus of her attention, and lastly Leo and Isla: Leo who loves Isla but can’t say the words, despite proposing at regular intervals, and Isla who won’t marry JUST for security – oh everyone gets moment (or three) to shine, bringing characters and readers alike into a big, warm and welcoming hug. Sure, none of the moments are without their challenges, and the overarching presence of Matthew, who brought them all together posthumously adds a bittersweet note, but this little series is a go-to grab when you want to make new friends, join in their happiness, and enjoy time away at the beach.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher for purpose of honest review I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Fun ? Check Laugh out Loud Funny ? Check Sexy ? Check PLUS Surprisingly Deep ? Check
I’ve decided that you can’t go wrong with a Mia Sosa novel: her stFun ? Check Laugh out Loud Funny ? Check Sexy ? Check PLUS Surprisingly Deep ? Check
I’ve decided that you can’t go wrong with a Mia Sosa novel: her stories are wholly expected in terms of happy ever afters, and represent the diversity and joy in romance and love that we find in our lives today. In this story we are given an entrée into the lives of Ashley and Julian, both whom we met in Carter’s story ( Acting on Impulse ). Julian is Carter’s agent and his best friend, a choice Julian made when Carter’s career was at a turning point and he was desperate to have someone he trusted to watch his back. Ashley is Carter’s younger sister, and always been a bit unfocused, her family calls her flighty, and now in her 4th or 5th job in the past couple of years, she’s had a falling out with her roommate and appears on Julian’s doorstep looking for a place to stay.
Julian has always been intrigued and excited by Ashley, but as his career at the agency relies on his working relationship with Carter, he’s not going to chance a conflict of interest and place both his friendship and career in jeopardy. What he doesn’t realize is that Ashley always had a crush on him, and now she’s thinking that she’ll test the waters for a bit, then move on.
The chemistry between these two is electric, and they are both desperate not to give quarter in the ‘who’s attracted to whom’ battle: from innuendo to open-mouthed stares, Ashley spends much of the early part of their ‘roommate situation’ taunting and teasing Julian. But, he’s giving back as good as he gets – there’s a genuine interest in Ashley – and he hates to see how reluctant she is to go for her dreams of a life in music. He’s going to push, prod and cajole her into action, giving her a solid sense of self as something other than Carter Stone’s sister, and contain his baser instincts where she is concerned.
But the Williamson family reunion is coming up, with a surprise wedding for Carter and Tori to close the weekend’s events, and while Julian is attending the whole thing (by request of Carter’s family), Ashley is planning on only breezing in for the finale, only to leave again. Tired from years of her cousin and aunt’s sniping, she’s not interested in yet another family event without a man by her side to deflect the barbs. Thus – the plan is hatched, and the two are a ‘couple who lives together’ for purposes of the cousin and others who may ask without good intention.
With chemistry off the charts, a ton of laughs and Julian’s tendency to put his foot in his mouth repeatedly where Ashley is concerned, the weekend of forced closeness shows them just how difficult this ‘thing’ between them is to ignore. And with the plunge taken, things are looking to be solidly on a path to happy ever after. And then, Julian’s determination to separate business and personal come up against his feelings for Ashley, his dissatisfaction with the status quo in Hollywood and some discouraging news about his father causes a rift – and Ashley leaves.
Oh he’s got some growing to do – and it’s time that he stops admiring Ashley’s head first dive into something new and different – and perhaps make changes that give him a reason to get up in the morning. If he’s bold enough and can manage to withstand a tequila-fueled pizza party with Eva, Tori and Ashley, and explain his choices to Carter without losing his friend, and hopefully leaving with the girl. Again Sosa has managed to involve concerns, fears and situations that everyone can relate to – mix it with a dash of spice, add in a diverse group of friends and family and come out with a winner. Grab this book – even if you’ve not read the first – you’ll want to have them both read before we get to Eva’s story – coming soon!
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via Edelweiss for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Fun ? Check Laugh out Loud Funny ? Check Sexy ? Check PLUS Surprisingly Deep ? Check
I’ve decided that you can’t go wrong with a Mia Sosa novel: her stories are wholly expected in terms of happy ever afters, and represent the diversity and joy in romance and love that we find in our lives today. In this story we are given an entrée into the lives of Ashley and Julian, both whom we met in Carter’s story ( Acting on Impulse ). Julian is Carter’s agent and his best friend, a choice Julian made when Carter’s career was at a turning point and he was desperate to have someone he trusted to watch his back. Ashley is Carter’s younger sister, and always been a bit unfocused, her family calls her flighty, and now in her 4th or 5th job in the past couple of years, she’s had a falling out with her roommate and appears on Julian’s doorstep looking for a place to stay.
Julian has always been intrigued and excited by Ashley, but as his career at the agency relies on his working relationship with Carter, he’s not going to chance a conflict of interest and place both his friendship and career in jeopardy. What he doesn’t realize is that Ashley always had a crush on him, and now she’s thinking that she’ll test the waters for a bit, then move on.
The chemistry between these two is electric, and they are both desperate not to give quarter in the ‘who’s attracted to whom’ battle: from innuendo to open-mouthed stares, Ashley spends much of the early part of their ‘roommate situation’ taunting and teasing Julian. But, he’s giving back as good as he gets – there’s a genuine interest in Ashley – and he hates to see how reluctant she is to go for her dreams of a life in music. He’s going to push, prod and cajole her into action, giving her a solid sense of self as something other than Carter Stone’s sister, and contain his baser instincts where she is concerned.
But the Williamson family reunion is coming up, with a surprise wedding for Carter and Tori to close the weekend’s events, and while Julian is attending the whole thing (by request of Carter’s family), Ashley is planning on only breezing in for the finale, only to leave again. Tired from years of her cousin and aunt’s sniping, she’s not interested in yet another family event without a man by her side to deflect the barbs. Thus – the plan is hatched, and the two are a ‘couple who lives together’ for purposes of the cousin and others who may ask without good intention.
With chemistry off the charts, a ton of laughs and Julian’s tendency to put his foot in his mouth repeatedly where Ashley is concerned, the weekend of forced closeness shows them just how difficult this ‘thing’ between them is to ignore. And with the plunge taken, things are looking to be solidly on a path to happy ever after. And then, Julian’s determination to separate business and personal come up against his feelings for Ashley, his dissatisfaction with the status quo in Hollywood and some discouraging news about his father causes a rift – and Ashley leaves.
Oh he’s got some growing to do – and it’s time that he stops admiring Ashley’s head first dive into something new and different – and perhaps make changes that give him a reason to get up in the morning. If he’s bold enough and can manage to withstand a tequila-fueled pizza party with Eva, Tori and Ashley, and explain his choices to Carter without losing his friend, and hopefully leaving with the girl. Again Sosa has managed to involve concerns, fears and situations that everyone can relate to – mix it with a dash of spice, add in a diverse group of friends and family and come out with a winner. Grab this book – even if you’ve not read the first – you’ll want to have them both read before we get to Eva’s story – coming soon!
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via Edelweiss for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Connie is sixty-six years of age with three grown children, a husband and a seeming never-ending list of things to do – all for others. While mashing Connie is sixty-six years of age with three grown children, a husband and a seeming never-ending list of things to do – all for others. While mashing potatoes as she makes yet another dinner that will be received without thanks, she decides that she’s had enough. Enough of being taken advantage of, being ignored, unthanked and hunting down her husband on the golf course. So she packs up her stuff into Kermit, her little green car – and drives off, destination Scotland. Eventually.
What a clever combination of outrageous moments, self-discovery and a travelogue through the highways and byways of England: starting in Sussex and heading out on her own adventure to find herself, and perhaps some recognition of the years of effort she’s put in to keep everyone’s life running smoothly. Connie is the heroine for all of us – those moments when finding ‘me’ time is steadily moved down the to-do list as housework, children, grandchildren and the myriad of demands pile up, without regard for the one who makes it all happen. Tired of being the one who is expected to be ‘there’, she’s chucked that all in and reconnects with old friends, meets new ones, and with a not-so-subtle pushing to see her family more self-sufficient and for them to recognize that she is important, needed, and above all – deserves the right to be asked if she ‘wants’ to help out, babysit, shuttle the grandchildren to and fro…..
Throughout the book, MacDonald brings us England and Scotland: from descriptions of sights and people to moments with food, Connie’s sheer excitement in encountering the new and different, and the people she encounters and welcomes along the way. Connie is open and generous with her time, her friendship and with readers as she shares her thoughts about her history and life, past and present, and tries to find just ‘who’ she has become in the meantime, as she works toward being the person she wants to be. Sure, she has moments that are bittersweet, if not downright morose, but she’s ultimately a cheerful and thoughtful person, even in moments that alternate from hilariously awkward to potentially dangerous – her zest for discovering things, and by extension, herself, make this hard to put down.
Best of all are the emails from home – first worried and concerned, then testing the limits with ‘guilt inducing’ statements like “how will Dad manage the vacuuming” – she’s without waver – simply responding to queries about her return with “I’m having a wonderful adventure and will return soon enough.” Unfortunately for readers, soon enough comes far too quickly as I could have traveled with Connie far longer – and spent more hours in her company. For she becomes a friend, an example and a lovely character all around. I can’t wait to see more from this author.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Connie is sixty-six years of age with three grown children, a husband and a seeming never-ending list of things to do – all for others. While mashing potatoes as she makes yet another dinner that will be received without thanks, she decides that she’s had enough. Enough of being taken advantage of, being ignored, unthanked and hunting down her husband on the golf course. So she packs up her stuff into Kermit, her little green car – and drives off, destination Scotland. Eventually.
What a clever combination of outrageous moments, self-discovery and a travelogue through the highways and byways of England: starting in Sussex and heading out on her own adventure to find herself, and perhaps some recognition of the years of effort she’s put in to keep everyone’s life running smoothly. Connie is the heroine for all of us – those moments when finding ‘me’ time is steadily moved down the to-do list as housework, children, grandchildren and the myriad of demands pile up, without regard for the one who makes it all happen. Tired of being the one who is expected to be ‘there’, she’s chucked that all in and reconnects with old friends, meets new ones, and with a not-so-subtle pushing to see her family more self-sufficient and for them to recognize that she is important, needed, and above all – deserves the right to be asked if she ‘wants’ to help out, babysit, shuttle the grandchildren to and fro…..
Throughout the book, MacDonald brings us England and Scotland: from descriptions of sights and people to moments with food, Connie’s sheer excitement in encountering the new and different, and the people she encounters and welcomes along the way. Connie is open and generous with her time, her friendship and with readers as she shares her thoughts about her history and life, past and present, and tries to find just ‘who’ she has become in the meantime, as she works toward being the person she wants to be. Sure, she has moments that are bittersweet, if not downright morose, but she’s ultimately a cheerful and thoughtful person, even in moments that alternate from hilariously awkward to potentially dangerous – her zest for discovering things, and by extension, herself, make this hard to put down.
Best of all are the emails from home – first worried and concerned, then testing the limits with ‘guilt inducing’ statements like “how will Dad manage the vacuuming” – she’s without waver – simply responding to queries about her return with “I’m having a wonderful adventure and will return soon enough.” Unfortunately for readers, soon enough comes far too quickly as I could have traveled with Connie far longer – and spent more hours in her company. For she becomes a friend, an example and a lovely character all around. I can’t wait to see more from this author.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
You won’t get much more ‘British’ in the feel of these books, and this one makes a place for itself in a seemingly straight-line path to the suspect. You won’t get much more ‘British’ in the feel of these books, and this one makes a place for itself in a seemingly straight-line path to the suspect. Originally published in 1967, there is a very definite sense of the time in some outmoded beliefs and customs, but this doesn’t lessen the enjoyment one gets from Watson’s clever use of language and wordplay to illustrate and develop the story, from characters to sly asides, the humor and sharply presented imagery engages and delights. Far from being only a story from Purbright and Love, a new character is introduced in the form of Miss Lucilla Teatime.
Arthur Spain is worried about his sister-in-law’s silence, moreso when he discovers her doorstep holding newspapers and bottles of curdled milk. He’s on to contact Purbright, now in the middle of another case involving yet another well-to-do 40-something single woman. In the search, Purbright has discovered that both women have had meetings with Handclasp House, a local dating agency owned and managed by the Staunches. (How British can you get?)
In the midst of their questions at Handclasp House, Purbright is introduced to Miss Teatime, a potential client of the Staunches services, and clearly a woman with plenty of secrets to hide. Lucilla is actually an invaluable asset in this investigation with her own ever-changing intentions that are never quite clearly defined, and Purbright’s determination to keep this latest woman safe from the dangers that lurk around the women on the Handclasp House’s roster.
Clearly, although Watson isn’t above making fun of the agency and some rather unusual matches, the empathy for those looking for love is never far from the reader’s awareness, and with Lucilla being particularly comical in her oft-scattered approach, there’s clearly a keen intelligence hidden there, behind her appearance. Soon Purbright is relying on information provided by Lucilla in combination with his own keen puzzling of clues, sharp observations and a few red herrings thrown in to keep readers (and he) guessing. A reveal that was surprising in the solution and the path to get there – a truly clever mystery that will have even the most casual of readers delighted.
I received an eBook copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
You won’t get much more ‘British’ in the feel of these books, and this one makes a place for itself in a seemingly straight-line path to the suspect. Originally published in 1967, there is a very definite sense of the time in some outmoded beliefs and customs, but this doesn’t lessen the enjoyment one gets from Watson’s clever use of language and wordplay to illustrate and develop the story, from characters to sly asides, the humor and sharply presented imagery engages and delights. Far from being only a story from Purbright and Love, a new character is introduced in the form of Miss Lucilla Teatime.
Arthur Spain is worried about his sister-in-law’s silence, moreso when he discovers her doorstep holding newspapers and bottles of curdled milk. He’s on to contact Purbright, now in the middle of another case involving yet another well-to-do 40-something single woman. In the search, Purbright has discovered that both women have had meetings with Handclasp House, a local dating agency owned and managed by the Staunches. (How British can you get?)
In the midst of their questions at Handclasp House, Purbright is introduced to Miss Teatime, a potential client of the Staunches services, and clearly a woman with plenty of secrets to hide. Lucilla is actually an invaluable asset in this investigation with her own ever-changing intentions that are never quite clearly defined, and Purbright’s determination to keep this latest woman safe from the dangers that lurk around the women on the Handclasp House’s roster.
Clearly, although Watson isn’t above making fun of the agency and some rather unusual matches, the empathy for those looking for love is never far from the reader’s awareness, and with Lucilla being particularly comical in her oft-scattered approach, there’s clearly a keen intelligence hidden there, behind her appearance. Soon Purbright is relying on information provided by Lucilla in combination with his own keen puzzling of clues, sharp observations and a few red herrings thrown in to keep readers (and he) guessing. A reveal that was surprising in the solution and the path to get there – a truly clever mystery that will have even the most casual of readers delighted.
I received an eBook copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
This was a story that brought in some characters from the first book, added new ones and new issues, and spun them all together to 3.5 Stars: Rounded
This was a story that brought in some characters from the first book, added new ones and new issues, and spun them all together to make a solid installment for the series. John Ashley (Ash) is an illustrator, growing up without family, suffering from epilepsy, and shuttled from house to house because he never quite ‘fit’. Fortunately for him, his talent and a good friend in Verity kept him hopeful, and their friendship is one they rely on to keep them grounded and involved with someone who ‘knows’ them. And knowing Verity is quite the two-sided coin. She’s as prickly as a rosebush and determined to maker her own way in the world, without help (or as she sees it, interference) from anyone else. If it weren’t for Ash’s ability to ground her and know of the many struggles she faces, she’d not have anyone to bounce ideas and worries off. Of course, falling in love with Ash would simply complicate her life beyond belief, so it’s a decided no-no: they want different things from life and she’s not willing to give up her fragile grasp on all she believes she has gained in determining her own destiny.
Of course, there are twists as Ash is surprised with his own history and is, in fact, a duke – a member of the aristocracy with all of the responsibilities that entails without ever being ‘prepared’ for the role. Even more difficult for him will be explaining it to Verity – as she has a deep-seated hatred for the ‘aristos’, and her brother is not so quietly rebelling against the ‘class system’ in Britain. A wanted man, Verity wants only to keep him from prison and save her relationship with Ash, as he won’t be ‘one of them’.
An interesting tale as Sebastian inserted historical facts and events into the story, grounding both Ash and Verity into a time of societal chaos, while adding the realities of both society and the time solidly into the story. As Verity tries to reconcile her own dislike of most people with her worries for her brother and her attraction to Ash, she is struggling with the tension and discord that having feelings for someone else brings to her own sense of self and balance. She’s still reeling (although she’d deny it to her last breath) from her last relationship with a woman we’d met in the first book, and more than a little cun shy. Not ashamed of her bisexuality, but embracing it as an ingrained part of her – there is a bit of hesitation in her willingness to give in to her feelings for Ash. Carrying all of the hallmarks of a Sebastian title, the story did slow with some OTT conflict and a bit of disconnect between the couple that seemed to fall in more with Verity’s change of stance on her desire to change society, and a bit of indecision on her part. But, handling the epilepsy, the clear acceptance of the couple for people of all stances: classes and sexual orientation making it a solid inclusion in the series.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via Edelweiss for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
My first introduction to this author and series, and it starts with the first book, with our characters both making their living as they work in mediaMy first introduction to this author and series, and it starts with the first book, with our characters both making their living as they work in media: she as an entertainment reporter and he as a web sensation with his series of off the wall jokes and scenes (think Jackass without the danger). Both are successful and content, if half a world apart. But Cassie has been itching for ‘more’ of late, she wants to be a real reporter talking about more than the next divorce or shocking outfit. Cassie is more than I expected when I first met her – a sucker for historic romance, sharp intellect, a good listener and always looking for the ‘story behind the story’. And ready to experience something different from her ‘usual’ days, she and her four friends have planned the trip of a lifetime through Europe -each has a leg of the trip – and each has a goal. Cassie, as one might expect from a younger ‘heroine’ has decided that a fling with a hot guy is just what she is looking for.
Logan lives in Scotland – a bit of an immature outlook where relationships are concerned, and his web series is based on outrageous practical jokes, some funnier than others. At heart, Logan is just living life and enjoying himself, and with plenty of hard work and a few uncommitted encounters as well as plenty of friends, his life is good. It gets markedly better when he encounters Cassie and her friends at a local (to him) pub. It’s not long before the two are flirting outrageously and Cassie gets her ‘fling’. Yet it is so much more – there is a chemistry here that neither can deny, and they actually enjoy one another on their way to something more.
Now, there were problems with the story and writing. Written in 3rd person POV, the switches between his and her perspective were frequent, not indicated and until a clear ‘voice’ for each character is recognizable – difficult to follow. No indications of scene breaks, as well as a fairly hefty dose of Scottish slang that could easily confuse and frustrate readers who had to constantly stop to look up the words as most didn’t intuit from sentence placement. And the lagging and dragging - several moments where nothing relevant happened, or was expended in making it clear who the ‘next couple’ would be with plenty of ‘dreamy’ moments, and not quite enough action had me wanting to skim, and the immaturity of BOTH Logan and Cassie had me frustrated with them frequently. It’s a lighthearted story that perhaps takes itself a bit too seriously, with characters that are easy to know despite their less-than-wonderful traits that both display. I’ve got the second and third to read and can only hope that the stories flow a bit more consistently.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Little known secret about me: I’m not an Austen fan (or Hardy or F. Scott for that matter). I get why others like them, and I see the brilliance of AuLittle known secret about me: I’m not an Austen fan (or Hardy or F. Scott for that matter). I get why others like them, and I see the brilliance of Austen’s character studies and interactions, but hers are not titles that I reach for when I want something ‘familiar’ to read. The plethora of reimagined tales that use the tropes from Austen, particularly Pride and Prejudice, often leave me flat. It’s not that I can’t enjoy them – but more often than not I choose not to read them. Dragging me from that habit is Sonali Dev: I’ve always enjoyed her writing and the view she provides on histories and traditions of families and people from India, along with their assimilation struggles and the choices made. So I had to read this story that brought a new twist, both culturally and gender role wise, to the tale. And I am very happy to have had the opportunity.
The Raje family is seriously monied and more than a bit insular and suspicious of outsiders. Some of this, I have to believe, is a result of assimilating into the very different American city of San Francisco, and partly because in India, the cultural norms fit their status. First we have Trisha, the daughter and ‘black sheep’ of her very large family and our Darcy. Intelligent, talented and utterly socially awkward, she is the ‘less esteemed’ of the children as a childish indiscretion brought ‘complications’ to the family door. Her brother Yash, the favorite son is a political rising star, if the secrets and scandal Trisha brought to their door can remain hidden. Her father brings a level of ‘snob’ to the table as a descendant of Indian royalty and a successful physician, who also happens to be a higher-up in the hospital where Trisha works, while her mother is formerly a Bollywood performer and still revered for her beauty and talent in India. Of the many other siblings that Dev develops with a unique sense of being is her sister Nisha who has several wonderful moments. We still have yet to meet our Elizabeth though, and her character arrives in the form of DJ Caine, raised in London with an Indian father and Rwandan mother, his experience in America is a vastly different one to the Raje’s. An up and coming chef and brother of one of Trisha’s patients, DJ is struggling to make a name for himself as a chef as he deals with the untold struggles he faces as well as his worries for his sister Emma’s health and how to provide her with the best possible.
There’s the outline of who is who – and just who will be the main players upon the stage. But this is so much more: Trisha’s snobbery and her marked social awkwardness with everyone, including her own family. DJ and his life that has featured many struggles and actual racism, and his sensitivity to any sort of ‘put down’ that just reopens old wounds that are covered, but not healed. His skill and talent in the kitchen and his inability to overlook prejudice and slights to himself and others, along with his determination to succeed and shine in a career that always depends on the last impression made becomes the cornerstone on which the story revolves. He is hired to cater an event for the Rajes – as they endeavor to see Yash move up the political ladder – an event that will be attended by the best and brightest in the city, paid for by the Rajes. They see him as ‘the help’ as Trisha so casually mentions, and in that position as an outsider and very different to them – he is also simply one who is meant to serve their every whim. It’s curious to see how he gentles Trisha into an awakening of the world around her and the struggles of many – a child of privilege, she is frequently tone-deaf to the trials that others face, even as she is often subjected to a particular brand of ‘never being enough’ by her high-flying parents, most particularly her father. It’s not that the children aren’t loved, but in this family favorites are clear and male, with daughters being appreciated while still never without ‘correction. Dev’s writing brings insight into family dynamics that show differences and similarities to us all, and adds a quietly developing growth into awareness for Trisha that is provided by a growing attraction for DJ. With so many wonderful moments as well as difficulties that encompassed harassment, Black Lives Matter, prejudice, assumptions and unwavering loyalty, the story is full of intrigue, information and entertainment.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via Edelweiss for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
AudioBook Review: Stars: Overall 4 Naration 5 Story 4
Stevie is ready to start planning for Thanksgiving but there’s one problem: Win, her British spyAudioBook Review: Stars: Overall 4 Naration 5 Story 4
Stevie is ready to start planning for Thanksgiving but there’s one problem: Win, her British spy turned ghost has disappeared and is nowhere to be found. It’s even worse as she’s now regretting having never told him just how important he is to her…. And we are off and running almost from the first moment as the emotional content of this story jumps into high gear. Stevie and Win are pretty much the ‘go to’ in this series – while others are mixing into the adventures and mysteries, it’s been these two since the start, and as their time together has gone on, their friendship has developed into a touchstone for the series.
The worst of this for Stevie is her inability to bounce ideas off Win – she’s getting ‘clues’ that she wouldn’t normally question before following after them – but she’s wondering if they are possibly from Win, have any real bearing on his disappearance, or even if they really are clues and not just some weirdness (it’s happened before) place din her path to divert her attention. What emerges here is the value and reliance that Stevie places on Win to keep her focused, moving forward and even reasonably stable. Without him, she is more than a little lost and untethered – prone to highs and lows that are emotionally trying for her and the listener. And when rumors start to pop up that Win may just have moved on…… it’s not pretty.
Hollie Jackson narrates this series to great effect – with a solid sense of Stevie and her frustration with her lost powers and worries for Win, and in many ways, of herself. This was an emotional ride - far more involved with the ups and downs of Stevie’s psyche than in the twists and turns around Win’s disappearance and what that might mean for our heroine. Jackson clearly presents the emotional moments, allowing Stevie’s questions and hesitations (as well as her insecurity) to shine forward, without actually demanding the emotions from the performance. Things have certainly taken a jump away from the last book where boredom threatened all that she held dear, and the fast paced dialogue, emotional switches and Stevie’s own questions kept the story moving forward.
I received an AudioBook copy of the title from Tantor Audio for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Childhood friends, a feminist heroine, blackmail, secrets and some dangerous mystery drive this story forward, while introducing a new setting and setChildhood friends, a feminist heroine, blackmail, secrets and some dangerous mystery drive this story forward, while introducing a new setting and set of characters. Freya de Mornay is a feminist through and through, with her determination to right the wrongs done to her family, disgraced by the man whom she was friendly with as a child. She’s living a lie right now -with hiding her feminist tendencies that are far more progressive than would be acceptable in society, and she’s hiding behind an alias – the family disgrace would leave her without options to pursue her interests and agenda – and being able to act as a chaperone allows her access to events that her own name would leave her out of. Christopher Renshaw is now the Duke of Harlowe, and is being blackmailed for secrets from his past – spotting Freya, who knows everything about him from his early years – he thinks he may have found the culprit.
From an amazing set up, with plenty of questions to be answered and the promise of some truly dangerous machinations for both their physical well-being and the emotional connection between them, the story quickly was mired in multiple subplots that were vaguely concocted and overly simplistic, I never truly felt connected to the relationship as it developed between Freya and Christopher. Additionally, the plethora of name choices from actual to family, fake to real, kept much of the connection that should have been built in a sort of ‘watch and see’ zone: with a constant need to remind myself of who each character is, let alone what other ‘traits’ they attempted (in Freya’s case) to change for their alias. What stood out was Christopher and his own struggles with a PTSD-like set of reactions to varied situations, and his willingness to believe that the Freya of the current day is the same one he knew as a child. He was solidly developed, and utterly honorable, even with secrets, that made him the standout in this story, even with the feminist approach to Freya and her stubborn (and frequently annoying) determination to view everything in an us v them, man v woman mode that just didn’t allow what character was there to develop in ways that would make Christopher’s fascination and admiration plausible. When the climax should have happened and felt more ‘threat’ from the mystery promised, the story fell rather flat and wasn’t helped by the simple feeling race to the end, few red herrings or actual tension just didn’t make that pan out. Yes, they had a connection that felt very one sided and seemed to have Christopher making most of the effort, but I just wasn’t overjoyed with this story or the characters introduced, and don’t see myself continuing the series.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Oh I loved this story from first page to last! It’s told in four perspectives, three new friends who met on an arts weekend, and the widowed husband oOh I loved this story from first page to last! It’s told in four perspectives, three new friends who met on an arts weekend, and the widowed husband of the fourth, the one who essentially brought them all together. Lissy, having just inherited her great aunts house on the Devon coast is recently divorced and has decided that she wants to have company: who better to invite than the two other women at the weekend course she and her childhood best friend Claire attended, even with Claire now gone in a road accident? So using Facebook and emails, she contacted Janey, the real artist in the group, Bobbie, the aging fashion model who was their life model for the course, and Xander, still living in the little town, still reeling after his wife’s death. And all agreed, arriving with their own concerns and questions, but happy to reconnect and get away for the few days.
Here the story opens up: the connection that both Lissy and Xander felt the night of his wedding, never acted upon and him not really moving forward to open his heart or life to another. Lissy with her newfound enjoyment in cooking and her growing disillusionment with her career as an accountant. Janey who took the first step into a new and freer life by leaving her alcoholic abusive husband, a bundle of nerves and shame taking a taxi to Strand House with the lovely Sam, an older man who seemed to intuit her need for ‘jollying up’. Robbie with her bold ways, oodles of luggage and lack of tact, who gets to the heart of the matter, carrying a letter from her solicitor that she knows is holding information about her biggest secret and regret.
Through delicious food, some drink, and the sense that dreams are possible within the walls of the house, these four take tentative steps toward deepening their friendship and finding supportive and often helpful advice and options as they learn more. From Janey’s abuse and withdrawal into herself because of her husband, and Xavier’s instantly apparent ‘big brotherly’ concern, to Bobbie’s literally putting her in new clothes to boost confidence, one would think that Janey was the only one finding peace. But a Christmas night telephone call to Bobbie, a connection that is deepening and growing between Lissy and Xander, and the ease with which they all offer support, honesty and true affection – even the most harsh-sounding conclusions are put forward with best intentions, and help toward everyone finding the fireworks on Boxing Day to be the sparks that guide them into new directions with all the possibilities open. Mitchelmore packed a ton of issues, questions, secrets and choices into this story and managed to provide ways forward for all, with the simplest of needs: friendship. That kind of friendship that is honest, wishes you the best but isn’t afraid of pulling you up short when you’re wrong-footed, but will support, cheer, accept and enjoy each step forward as if they were their own.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
The first I’ve read from Pam Howes, I found that not reading the first in this trilogy wasn’t a hardship, as backstories and relationships for our maiThe first I’ve read from Pam Howes, I found that not reading the first in this trilogy wasn’t a hardship, as backstories and relationships for our main characters have been given context, and while I’m going to read the first, it didn’t affect my enjoyment of this one. War has ended and while the air is filled with hope, the adjustments aren’t always straightforward. Alice and Terry, having only spent one night as a married couple are back together, with Terry desperately trying to find a connection to the daughter he’s never met. But they are happy, if scraping to make ends meet, with Alice working in a shop downtown and also at a local pub on Saturday nights. With Terry finding work amidst the thousands of men searching, he’s decided he needs to get his motorcycle road worthy and starts (against Alice’s and his own mother’s wishes) to start the repairs with the help of Jack, the second in command at the pub where Alice works. Jack did not serve, an ‘injury’ that took half his foot made him unfit – and the first questions about Jack and his ‘honor’ enter the story.
Alice’s best friends, Millie and Sadie are also featured: Millie had met her new man at Alice’s wedding, and now they are marrying and moving to Bristol with plans to emigrate to Canada while Sadie is worried that the father of her child will return to take him away, a circus performer and Italian, the family and circus left when being Italian in England often meant being ‘secured’ in camps for national security. But with Sadie’s worries, and Millie’s moving away, Alice is steadily working to piece back her family and enjoy their time together. Everything is moving forward nicely until Terry is killed in an accident during his first ride on the bike. Cue Alice into ‘survival mode, working and struggling to make the life for her daughter and her younger brother who she has cared for since her mother’s death. With Jack stepping up and making it clear that friendship is not all he wants, it is decided that he and Alice will marry, and she’ll sell her house, investing her share of the money into a bond for the pub, so Jack can ‘take over” and with the flat above the business, everything looks like they can put money away, Alice’s dreams take a new direction. Much to the dismay of her mother-in-law and side-eye from many people in the neighborhood. Here is where Alice lost me a bit – she’s so unwilling to question Jack, or see his controlling and often erratic behavior as red flags – and his determination (and frequent statements) that kids are nothing he wants don’t deter her forward progress with their marriage.
Clearly pointing out the struggles and the limited choices available to women of the time, forget the additional pressures from wartime recoveries. It truly was a time when the best, and perhaps only, protections a woman had were those of husband and family – and Alice makes a choice, despite her own worries, to move forward and take a chance that life will improve. Where I understand the conditioning to allow the husband be the man of the house, Alice survived and managed a house, 2 children and a job while Terry was away at war, yet she’s willing to ‘let’ Jack be the lead in everything…. Surprisingly enough, she had kept paperwork and proof that if used, will allow her a bit of a say in the business and their life moving forward, and with a promotion at work, and that feeding her self-esteem and confidence, all is moving forward, if cautiously – until Alice finds herself pregnant. It would be nice to see actual changes in Jack during Alice’s pregnancy, but the ‘I’ll change” moment at the end, from someone who very clearly was EVERYTHING that people tried to warn her about wasn’t quite enough for me to find this chapter in the trilogy resolved with any sense of permanence. But – I loved Millie and Sadie, and the connection the three share, and hope that more will resolve for all three in the final book.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
I loved Rabbit Back Literature Society from this author, and found some of the otherworldliness felt very appropriate to what I’ve come to know about I loved Rabbit Back Literature Society from this author, and found some of the otherworldliness felt very appropriate to what I’ve come to know about Finland and the folklore, but here, the few unanswered questions left in the first seem to multiply and spawn anew, as this book is ultimately (I think) about faces presented to the world in different situations – and the secrets those faces may hide, for whatever reasons. Short chapters, many references to ‘cinematic’ selves, ie: the faces we present to the world on social media, versus the ‘true selves’ and can one actually be exchanged for, or completely overwhelm the other in any given interaction. And the interactions are wonderful here, as Olli is trying to find yet another lost umbrella, deal with his wife and teenage son and manage the intrigue that is Greta – an old flame he’s recently reconnected with on Facebook.
Perhaps at times the story becomes a bit too symbolic and obscure, with the questions about how real life imitates film, or vice versa, with a rather obscured vision of reality, dreams, film and again, that cinematic face presented: while most flowed reasonably well during the read, in retrospect, there were so many moments that were gems in their own right that faded into a sort of blanket of ‘remove’ in impressions. In fact, the author cleverly (and quite clearly) comments that while readers are having a hard time connecting to or trying to discover why they should care about Olli’s journey, that in a hundred years it won’t matter, and thus brings up the ‘should it matter now’ thought. I’m still puzzling that one out – just where did I find a need to engage with Olli, or was I simply ‘watching’ him puzzle out dreams from reality, truth from fiction, and who is presented to him from who really is standing there. It’s still not entirely clear – but I have to say that the joy here was in the something totally different that keeps me questioning long after the last page.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via Edelweiss for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Charlotte and Ginny are identical twins and are as different as chalk and cheese. Ginny is “the pretty one’ and plays off that moniker with her life sCharlotte and Ginny are identical twins and are as different as chalk and cheese. Ginny is “the pretty one’ and plays off that moniker with her life spent running through the beauty pageant circuit and her Instagram following. Charlotte (and the reason I grabbed the title) is an elementary school librarian, reserved, quiet and very book-ish. My only complaint with her was her choice of ‘favorite read’ which, when one considers her workplace and her access to ALL the titles in the world – meh. But, this isn’t about her work (sadly) but of her overcoming preconceptions and labels attached since childhood as Charlotte, through an odd set of circumstances, finds herself passing as Ginny in a pageant.
The twin switch is cute – although familiar in a Parent Trap sort of way, but Charlotte is overwhelmed by all of the elements of the pageant (and this story does carry a solid ‘pro-pageant’ message that seeks to break down preconceptions) and the fact that Ginny actually does have to do more than she ever thought possible to maintain and compete. Of course, Charlotte has angst in the switch, and the author makes a point of being a ‘woman friendly’ atmosphere behind the scenes, despite the outright sexism of pageants, the competitors are all nice and supportive of one another, without the expected ‘knife in the back’ moments that I’m sure we all have seen / expected. Cleverly, this camaraderie and support helps Charlotte as she finds a romantic connection to someone she shouldn’t be interested in – and he’s interested right back.
Overall, the story did read a bit “young’ with the sisters nearing thirty, Charlotte was by far more naïve and innocent, feeling far younger than her age, while Ginny was self-centered and often selfish at first, needing that moment of redemption to bring her character around. These two are so different – and with a light flirtation the romance felt very teen and ‘first boyfriend’, even as it was clear that it was rather meant to be, even with the substitution of Charlotte for Ginny. Clever twists, some unexpected camaraderie and some light moments makes this fluffy read a perfect escape for a few hours of ‘pick you up”.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Gloria is a seventy-something woman, widowed and living on her own in her very cluttered house. So cluttered, in fact, that it’s revealing all of the Gloria is a seventy-something woman, widowed and living on her own in her very cluttered house. So cluttered, in fact, that it’s revealing all of the cracks in her life, her depression and her safety: with a fire starting and her son stepping in to redirect and, as she sees it, control her life. He’s less than altruistic in his motives – she’s always found him difficult, not seen her grandchild in near ten years, and relies on Tisbury, her old friend and boyfriend to run to the shops and manage with her pension cheque. But, Clegg is determined, and with the fire social services have been brought in, moving her to a nursing home for the immediate moment, where she can get some meals more nutritious than the potato soup she’s survived on, and perhaps help her to deal with the depression that appeared as the piles of clutter and her refusal to step outside.
But this is a turning point for Gloria, as she starts to find her old determination, and discovers that her son’s plan is to sell her house and commit her to a care home on a permanent basis. He’s never been particularly attentive, and she’s been at home waiting for hope, and someone or something to alleviate the loneliness she feels and her depression that is exacerbated with the isolation and aging. She’s not going to take it all lying down though as she toddles off to find her own purpose, making new friends, visiting old ones and grabbing for all of the gusto that she found in one short scooter ride away from the care home with Tisdale.
There’s much to be said about the lightness and hope in this story, with most issues able to resolve simply with a cup of tea and a chat – but we all know that nothing is ever quite that simple, and the refrain (however loved and completely British) of how about a cuppa became an oft-repeated refrain, seeming to recycle issues and solutions with a pat response. Oh sure, there’s hope – and Gloria is a wonderfully complex woman as one would expect in her near eighty years on earth, but there was an imbalance that kept me from LOVING the story – even though it was a perfect sort of pick-me-up read when one thinks of being aged and pushed aside for the new and shiny. A story that is higher on hope and light moments than actual substance, it was an enjoyable palate cleanser sort of read when other books or actual life becomes too weighty.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Gwen has plenty of things going on, and usually fairly astute, she’s just not seeing that her best friend Ted, the one she’s been in love with for ForGwen has plenty of things going on, and usually fairly astute, she’s just not seeing that her best friend Ted, the one she’s been in love with for For-Ev-Er isn’t all that, and really hasn’t done anything to deserve (or warrant) her undying admiration. Brody sees all of this, and really can’t get it: sure people fall in love for all sorts of reasons, but after all of this time with zero encouragement and, really, her consideration of Ted as her best friend – it’s just weird. Brody knows that Gwen deserves more, and well, he’d like to show her that – even if he’s not necessarily the guy who gets her heart in the end. He’s not altruistic in the least when the idea that he and Gwen go to the wedding as a “couple” to hopefully encourage Ted’s jealousy and (in Gwen’s world) make him see that they are perfect for one another.
In some ways, this plot device was juvenile and cliched, and yet, it worked (who knew?). The fake relationship that turns real is usually rather straight-forward and clear, with most of the drama coming from the characters and their hangups. But here, we add in a third person – rather more than oblivious and certainly unaware of the underlying potential for drama as Gwen is near-fixated, but it doesn’t overwhelm, and we see (as Brody does) that Ted really isn’t worth the time. Brody, on the other hand, is perfectly suited for Gwen – starting with the fact that HE actually WANTS her to find love and be happy – he sees all of her, faults and all, and appreciates it – not using her friendship and good heart against her to fob off unwanted attention, only to move on at the first opportunity.
Kelly managed to create a story that felt fresh even with an oft-used trope and the heroine feeling rather immature and untested at first. Gwen is determined to schedule and control her world to the best of her abilities, until and unless it involves Ted. Fortunately, much of that control seems to be a direct result of the lack of control she has regarding her feelings for Ted, and it takes a Brody, to loosen her up and challenge her reasons for staying in the one little box – to great effect. I clever little romance that is easy to read, low angst and sure to please fans of fake relationship stories.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Struggling with loss, friendships, choices and fear, the people of the little neighborhood of Mulberry Lane in London’s East End. A major target becauStruggling with loss, friendships, choices and fear, the people of the little neighborhood of Mulberry Lane in London’s East End. A major target because of the docks and warehouses, they’ve had relative calm in the ongoing years, if one doesn’t count the relationships and struggles of the people of the area. And Rosie Clark has created a hopeful story full of challenges and community as the “Lanes” band together to share, support, survive and struggle together through the hardships and uncertainties of war, one that seems never-ending.
The women left behind, are making the best of the hardships they are facing: and managing to make decisions, choices, friendships and loss with a strength and sense of community that seems all the more palpable because of the shared struggles. Using deft characterization and issues that pull at the heart, there is a clear sense of a common purpose: getting through the war in the best way possible, with friends and family working with and around the shortages, sharing their worries and joys, building a family out of neighbors and friends – one that cares comes together to help and support one another. There are several characters in this story, and bits of their backstories are shared as this one progresses, but what comes through, above and beyond the ‘what happened to get us here’ is the solid community sense: the friendships that truly provide comfort and understanding, and the fierce determination that these women show in their ability to make the best and most of the resources available to them.
Wonderful for the characters and the resilience shown during the struggles, the ‘homefront’ stories are often more centered on the “land girls’ or those working as spies and codebreakers – but it’s the ordinary people who held the country together through the years with pure determination, despite fears, loss and challenges. Clarke has brought those stories to light with characters that you can’t help but cheer on, empathize with and hope for an easier time. Most of us are unaware of the years of struggle that accompanied the war, during and after, and finding a new respect and understanding of the ways that people came together in times of difficulty and could serve as a model for us all.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Rose has been struggling along since the deaths of her brother and fiancé Sam in World War I: her parents both have retreated into their individual grRose has been struggling along since the deaths of her brother and fiancé Sam in World War I: her parents both have retreated into their individual grief, with her father becoming more introverted and rigid, her mother hoarding and effectively abandoning her tasks, and both ignoring Rose unless or until she isn’t meeting their expectations. She’s taken sole responsibility for the bakery her brother started before the war, creating cakes used to be something she and her mother worked on, but now, with all of the hopelessness around her and feeling more than a little trapped and without options, there’s been little for her to smile about or look forward to with any real sense of joy.
Enter Nick, on leave from his extended enlistment and now working in Germany during the reconstruction. He’s come looking for Rose at her little tea shop at the behest of Sam, who he served with and befriended during the war. Now with his promise to Sam ringing in his ears, and a much-viewed photo of Rose protected within the pages of a letter that contained a Christmas poem, he’s here to fulfill the promise – give Rose a Christmas she’s always dreamed of. Everything he thought of Rose is true – quiet, shy and lovely, he just wants to see her smile and see if his dreams of her, outrageous dreams in which he is drawn to this girl are possible. But, he’s got to mention that he knows Sam, and the poem, but not quite yet.
Cornwall uses Nick’s determination to get to know Rose, even with the deception (or omission) about Sam that preys on his thoughts. From sharing a piece of cake with her, to bringing her a tree and ornaments, taking her to a nativity performance in the recently completed cathedral in the city and even introducing her to her first ever ride in a car, there’s much that Nick is doing to make Rose smile, and several things that will surely cause upset. From his newly inherited title and lands, to the secret of Sam, his awareness of Rose and the fact that he can’t help himself falling in love – the roads here aren’t easy, or particularly smooth, but feel very plausible, possible and are lovely to explore. A bit of an emotional roller-coaster ride, particularly with Rose and the gamut of emotions she experiences, with Nick’s self-doubts and his own mother’s determination to see him happy and settled, the story is hard to put down and harder to forget. A lovely story full of the era and heart, with plenty of drama to go around as these two find their way through the difficulties and on toward their own newfound hopes and dreams.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Abbey and her son Max have always managed to get by, with a ton of hard work and scrimping, and an open door at her mother’s house. With her grandfathAbbey and her son Max have always managed to get by, with a ton of hard work and scrimping, and an open door at her mother’s house. With her grandfather now battling Parkinson’s, her mother’s broken ankle and Christmas coming, Abbey would like nothing more than to lose some of her financial burdens and give Max the Christmas he deserves. For the past 5 years she’s managed to push off his disappointment in not getting everything with the excuse that Santa’s sleigh can’t hold it all – and she’s been guilty that he feels ‘less’ than his schoolmates. But, an opportunity comes up for her to decorate Caroline’s grandson’s home – she’s been a carer for Caroline in her small cottage on the estate grounds, and redecorated the cottage to add warmth, functionality and a touch of style. But her grandson Nick lives in the ‘big house’ which is desperately in need of decorating.
Nick is consumed with making a success of his late father’s company – always working, single-mindedly focused on the task at hand. With a divorce behind him – he’s hiding many emotional scars behind a gentle, if firm, remove from the ‘messiness’ that is life. Doing all he can for his family and making sure they have what they need, from a distance. He hires Abbey on the spot, with little to no interest in ‘what’ she puts in the rooms to decorate – only that it be done for his family’s arrival before Christmas. An enigma where Abbey is concerned – so buttoned up in contrast to her own emotionally open and curious nature, her own rather quick-to-judge impressions of his remove all based in the differences in their economic statuses is perhaps the first thing that has Nick surprised and intrigued.
Slowly we see Abbey as she struggles with her guilt over Max and not being able to be ‘everything’ for him as a single parent, and her struggles with the curiosity she has about Nick, and his discomfort with her questions. But, beneath it all, Nick is intrigued with her – and finds himself putting his work aside to share meals, shopping and even some truly lovely moments with Max, who instantly gravitates toward him. With Abbey’s understandable hesitations about the connection that is building between Max and Nick, and the shock with which Nick’s family recognizes just how different he is since Abbey arrived, there are moments galore that show Nick’s remove slipping, by his own actions and the ‘take no prisoners’ approach that Abbey shows him – from picking up pieces after breaking promises, to sitting beside him as he shares a piece of himself that his family never saw – this is a lovely story of second chances and growth, perfect for the holidays.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Georgine French is an events director at a relatively newly created secondary school focused on the performing arts She loves all things theatrical, aGeorgine French is an events director at a relatively newly created secondary school focused on the performing arts She loves all things theatrical, and while family financial difficulties put an end to her degree, this position is tailor-made for her. Organized, upbeat and enthusiastic, the 17 through 19 year olds that she manages all find a source of inspiration and confidence in her presence. But not all is rosy – a breakup with her ex left debt collectors at her door, and her struggles to pay off large bills that he had run up in their name leaves her understandably unsettled. With him unwilling to take his responsibilities in hand, and the sudden appearance of her younger sister, guilting her into letting her stay as her own money management issues caused her relationship to break down, things are chaotic at home.
Joe Blackthorn is a new volunteer employee at Acting Instrumental, handed off to Georgine to orient (read babysit) by her very unusual, yet best boss ever, Oggie. Quiet and almost monosyllabic, she’s finding it hard to see just what Joe would bring to the school, but ever in need of a helping hand she ropes him into her organization scheme, watching rehearsals, talking to students, you name it. But Joe has a secret – years earlier he and Georgine were friends in school – while he was navigating a severely dysfunctional home life, poverty and some minor criminal and gang activity, she was the popular posh girl – with everything his council estate friends envied and thus wanted to destroy.
With trust issues the size of Scafell Pike and secrets (and shames) that could sink the Titanic – Joe’s double, no triple, identities, Georgine’s guilt and belief that her youthful indiscretions were the result of her family’s sudden change of circumstance, and the willingness of her sister and her ex to play on those guilts thus pushing her further into inflexible demands, the road these two have to travel is laden with pitfalls. But Joe’s determination to find and nurture talent, preparing these wide-eyed young artistic types for the pitfalls and bumps in the road is his main objective – all while ignoring a rift in the band he’d been in for the past decades, and his separation of identities, jobs and even homes. Surprisingly the story tackles multiple issues from secrets and responsibilities to the past and present informing your future, a bit of romance for Georgine and Joe, and some truly lovely moments with the Christmas show – the story was a read in one sitting sort of book, that brought the true meaning of what is important: family, friends and trust, to the forefront.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
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