It is a community-centred romantic tale about a young woman searching for her identity and wanting to create a life rich with friends and a supportiveIt is a community-centred romantic tale about a young woman searching for her identity and wanting to create a life rich with friends and a supportive community. Laurie has had a tough life so far, but when she receives an unexpected legacy, she decides to start a business in a small town. The attraction of Starr's Fall is that she may have a familial connection there, which she wants to explore. It's an emotional story but peppered with humour and romance. I like the complex and distinctive characters, the world-building of a believable small town, the mystery and the friendships Laurie makes. This story also has a gentle romantic thread between Laurie and Joshua. that helps them learn to trust one another with their secrets and allows them to become the people they should be. I like the detail; there is even a town map and the believable community dynamic. I received a copy of this book from the publisher....more
Whilst I can't see the appeal of reality TV, the characterisation, humour and romance in this book kept me turning the pages. Abby is an easy to like Whilst I can't see the appeal of reality TV, the characterisation, humour and romance in this book kept me turning the pages. Abby is an easy to like character with a good heart and witty sense of humour. This book is a good balance of romance and comedy and is the perfect escape from real life, maybe just like the fictional show it features?
The romantic element has a realistic blend of conflict and emotion. The reader is invested in its outcome. The friendship dynamic is believably written. The show's details are well-researched, immersing the reader in the world of reality TV. Enhanced with angst, believable characters and well-timed comic dialogue, this is an addictive original story.
I received a copy of this book from One More Chapter via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Merged review:
Whilst I can't see the appeal of reality TV, the characterisation, humour and romance in this book kept me turning the pages. Abby is an easy to like character with a good heart and witty sense of humour. This book is a good balance of romance and comedy and is the perfect escape from real life, maybe just like the fictional show it features?
The romantic element has a realistic blend of conflict and emotion. The reader is invested in its outcome. The friendship dynamic is believably written. The show's details are well-researched, immersing the reader in the world of reality TV. Enhanced with angst, believable characters and well-timed comic dialogue, this is an addictive original story.
I received a copy of this book from One More Chapter via NetGalley in return for an honest review....more
A believable, likeable heroine, a sexy, secretive hero and a lovable dog make this the perfect romantic comedy. Especially when you factor in a cast oA believable, likeable heroine, a sexy, secretive hero and a lovable dog make this the perfect romantic comedy. Especially when you factor in a cast of wedding guests, the helpful hairdresser and the hateful ex.
The chemistry between Jake and Sam is always there but will they do anything about it? There are so many comic moments in this story, as the week-long wedding celebrations rollout. Harry, the dog, is a real star and every dog lover will recognise his antics. Sam's mum also deserves a mention; she is hilarious.
There is a lovely mix of Sam's internal wrangling and visual action scenes, so vividly written that you can easily imagine them. The romantic ending is both nail-biting and satisfying. What more can you ask for in an escapist read?
I received a copy of this book from Harper Impulse via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Merged review:
A believable, likeable heroine, a sexy, secretive hero and a lovable dog make this the perfect romantic comedy. Especially when you factor in a cast of wedding guests, the helpful hairdresser and the hateful ex.
The chemistry between Jake and Sam is always there but will they do anything about it? There are so many comic moments in this story, as the week-long wedding celebrations rollout. Harry, the dog, is a real star and every dog lover will recognise his antics. Sam's mum also deserves a mention; she is hilarious.
There is a lovely mix of Sam's internal wrangling and visual action scenes, so vividly written that you can easily imagine them. The romantic ending is both nail-biting and satisfying. What more can you ask for in an escapist read?
I received a copy of this book from Harper Impulse via NetGalley in return for an honest review....more
I enjoyed learning about the folklore and the poignant flashbacks in the story set in North Yorkshire. Rowan and Connor are easy-to-like characters, a I enjoyed learning about the folklore and the poignant flashbacks in the story set in North Yorkshire. Rowan and Connor are easy-to-like characters, and their interactions are full of conflict, humour, and passion. I like the believable characters' emotional journey, the storytelling that draws you into Rowan and Connor's lives and the local legends the story explores through their work.
I was given a copy of this book from the publisher. ...more
This first story, in a new animal rescue series, is a lovely introduction to Jade, Aiden, Finn, Sarah, her son, Ben and a host of charismatic animals.This first story, in a new animal rescue series, is a lovely introduction to Jade, Aiden, Finn, Sarah, her son, Ben and a host of charismatic animals. The setting is rural and well-described. The complex and relatable characters hide emotional pain and secrets, making forming new relationships difficult. Jade finds she is in a love triangle, but her heart belongs to her animal friends. I like the web of complex emotions, the rescue animals and the characters' relatability.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher....more
As the title suggests, this story explores Sasha and Freddie's escape to rural France. It is an emotional and heartwarming tale with some lovely multiAs the title suggests, this story explores Sasha and Freddie's escape to rural France. It is an emotional and heartwarming tale with some lovely multi-generational characters. Whilst immersing you in the culture, food, language and location through its lyrical descriptions, it explores ancestry and loving and toxic relationships. I love the characterisation, the gentle romance and the escapist setting.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher....more
Beth Chamberlain is a likeable, realistic character. Dedicated to her career, despite the problems in her personal life. As a family liaison officer, Beth Chamberlain is a likeable, realistic character. Dedicated to her career, despite the problems in her personal life. As a family liaison officer, she needs great people skills and well-disguised investigative talent. She is uniquely placed to discover family tensions, and gain the trust of the victims' relatives and find out the true story.
A historical suicide, a deliberate hit and run, which results in a man's death. Emotions and suspense build, as the investigation proceeds. Further crimes, throw up more questions, than answers. The relentless investigation, finally finds the answers, leading to a devastating conclusion.
The story explores the concept of trial by social media, and the consequences, both personal and establishment, of this contemporary trend. The wife of the murdered man, who has stood by him, shows her strength of character in the face of public antagonism, against her late husband and her family.
The connection between the various crimes is cleverly interwoven. The police investigation is authentically portrayed. The domestic noir and suspense build gradually, giving the plot added depth and adding the ending's impact.
Dark crime, complex characters and relatable police investigation team, make this addictive reading. Looking forward to the next one.
I received a copy of this book from Aria via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Merged review:
Beth Chamberlain is a likeable, realistic character. Dedicated to her career, despite the problems in her personal life. As a family liaison officer, she needs great people skills and well-disguised investigative talent. She is uniquely placed to discover family tensions, and gain the trust of the victims' relatives and find out the true story.
A historical suicide, a deliberate hit and run, which results in a man's death. Emotions and suspense build, as the investigation proceeds. Further crimes, throw up more questions, than answers. The relentless investigation, finally finds the answers, leading to a devastating conclusion.
The story explores the concept of trial by social media, and the consequences, both personal and establishment, of this contemporary trend. The wife of the murdered man, who has stood by him, shows her strength of character in the face of public antagonism, against her late husband and her family.
The connection between the various crimes is cleverly interwoven. The police investigation is authentically portrayed. The domestic noir and suspense build gradually, giving the plot added depth and adding the ending's impact.
Dark crime, complex characters and relatable police investigation team, make this addictive reading. Looking forward to the next one.
I received a copy of this book from Aria via NetGalley in return for an honest review....more
This is a story about facing life's challenges and moving forward. Believable characters in a community that puts others first make this an uplifting This is a story about facing life's challenges and moving forward. Believable characters in a community that puts others first make this an uplifting read. The seedbox is a delightful metaphor for hope, and the story the author weaves around its discovery is magical. The Cornish setting perpetuates the story's mystic. It's a lovely heartwarming story with a magical twist.
I received a copy of this story from One More Chapter via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Merged review:
This is a story about facing life's challenges and moving forward. Believable characters in a community that puts others first make this an uplifting read. The seedbox is a delightful metaphor for hope, and the story the author weaves around its discovery is magical. The Cornish setting perpetuates the story's mystic. It's a lovely heartwarming story with a magical twist.
I received a copy of this story from One More Chapter via NetGalley in return for an honest review....more
This promises to be a delightful series. Berecome-by-Sea is getting ready to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the D Day landings, and this story intrThis promises to be a delightful series. Berecome-by-Sea is getting ready to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the D Day landings, and this story introduces so lovely new characters and some well-loved favourites.
Ashley is in Berecome, trying to heal and make a new start after a horrific car accident changed her life. Noah, her cousin, is organising the anniversary celebrations. They have a believable connection. Eddie is visiting the town to discover more about his Grandfather and is teaching at the local college. Ashley and Eddie's first meeting shows how the accident affected her and his innate kindness. The chemistry between them is tangible, and there is the possibility of romance. Biddy and Beryl add humour to the mix, and there is a host of other characters to make this an uplifting read.
I love the gentle romance and supportive friendships in this first book of the series.
I received a copy of this book from One More Chapter via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Merged review:
This promises to be a delightful series. Berecome-by-Sea is getting ready to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the D Day landings, and this story introduces so lovely new characters and some well-loved favourites.
Ashley is in Berecome, trying to heal and make a new start after a horrific car accident changed her life. Noah, her cousin, is organising the anniversary celebrations. They have a believable connection. Eddie is visiting the town to discover more about his Grandfather and is teaching at the local college. Ashley and Eddie's first meeting shows how the accident affected her and his innate kindness. The chemistry between them is tangible, and there is the possibility of romance. Biddy and Beryl add humour to the mix, and there is a host of other characters to make this an uplifting read.
I love the gentle romance and supportive friendships in this first book of the series.
I received a copy of this book from One More Chapter via NetGalley in return for an honest review....more
Starting with a tragic event, the reader is still reeling, when a young child faces danger at a fairground. This story deals with every parent’s worstStarting with a tragic event, the reader is still reeling, when a young child faces danger at a fairground. This story deals with every parent’s worst nightmares.
The Lake District setting and weather is an important part of the story as three seemingly unconnected events, form part of the puzzle Kelly Porter has to solve.
The police and forensic procedure is an interesting part of the fast-paced plot, which is full of twists, clues, action, and emotional angst. The crime is contemporary and demonstrates the worrying infiltration of organised crime into rural areas.
Kelly Porter continues to be a great character, clever, and finally coming to terms with her personal demons. The police team and her family provide believable supporting roles and the antagonists are convincingly immoral and driven by money at the expense of human life.
I can’t wait to see where this series goes next.
I received a copy of this book from Canelo via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Merged review:
Starting with a tragic event, the reader is still reeling, when a young child faces danger at a fairground. This story deals with every parent’s worst nightmares.
The Lake District setting and weather is an important part of the story as three seemingly unconnected events, form part of the puzzle Kelly Porter has to solve.
The police and forensic procedure is an interesting part of the fast-paced plot, which is full of twists, clues, action, and emotional angst. The crime is contemporary and demonstrates the worrying infiltration of organised crime into rural areas.
Kelly Porter continues to be a great character, clever, and finally coming to terms with her personal demons. The police team and her family provide believable supporting roles and the antagonists are convincingly immoral and driven by money at the expense of human life.
I can’t wait to see where this series goes next.
I received a copy of this book from Canelo via NetGalley in return for an honest review....more
Louise is career-driven but is ready to make changes so she can commit to her partner, but her surprise homecoming reveals he has moved on without herLouise is career-driven but is ready to make changes so she can commit to her partner, but her surprise homecoming reveals he has moved on without her, and she is glad that work offers her an escape to heal and move forward with her life.
The wine-growing Northern Italian hills vibrantly brought to life in this story are a sensory delight. Despite avoiding romance, Lousie finds she has many romantic suitors and following her romantic adventures makes this an engaging read.
A multigenerational story full of lovely relatable characters determined to make Louise's renovation of the rundown hotel succeed. They are quintessentially Italian and give the reader an excellent sense of place. Of course, the exuberant Labrador character is present, and Leo is a delight and perfectly captures the antics of a boisterous young dog.
The sensory imagery conjures up the Italian setting in an immersive way. The simple plot with character development and romantic choices for Louise, the main protagonist, makes this an uplifting read.
I received a copy of this book from Canelo Escape via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Merged review:
Louise is career-driven but is ready to make changes so she can commit to her partner, but her surprise homecoming reveals he has moved on without her, and she is glad that work offers her an escape to heal and move forward with her life.
The wine-growing Northern Italian hills vibrantly brought to life in this story are a sensory delight. Despite avoiding romance, Lousie finds she has many romantic suitors and following her romantic adventures makes this an engaging read.
A multigenerational story full of lovely relatable characters determined to make Louise's renovation of the rundown hotel succeed. They are quintessentially Italian and give the reader an excellent sense of place. Of course, the exuberant Labrador character is present, and Leo is a delight and perfectly captures the antics of a boisterous young dog.
The sensory imagery conjures up the Italian setting in an immersive way. The simple plot with character development and romantic choices for Louise, the main protagonist, makes this an uplifting read.
I received a copy of this book from Canelo Escape via NetGalley in return for an honest review....more
I read and reviewed the first book in the DI Kelly Porter series - Dark Game, and while I enjoyed it, for me, it was overly graphic and too factual, iI read and reviewed the first book in the DI Kelly Porter series - Dark Game, and while I enjoyed it, for me, it was overly graphic and too factual, in parts. Deep Fear, the second book in the series has retained the action, pace and suspense of the first, while losing some of the gore and facts, making it a perfect 5* read.
Kelly Porter is a dedicated police detective, it is part of her life, and she often sacrifices personal matters for the job. Kelly's complicated relationship with her sister Nikki continues in this sequel as does her on, off relationship with ex-serviceman Johnny, both give an insight into Kelly's emotional side and are integral to the plot.
The dark and twisty plot makes compelling reading and something you have to finish. The Lake District and Cumbria is an exciting setting, which gives the perfect cover for heinous crimes. The stark contrast of the beautiful lakes and hills with the dark, horror of the murderous crimes adds to the suspense.
The authentic and well-researched plot and the realistic characters make this story come to life, with a well disguised serial killer. The final chapters are adrenaline-fueled with a heart-stopping ending. All the questions thrown up by the story are dealt with believably, although there is one loose end about a person of interest, which could be part of another investigation?
Readable as a standalone but if you want the full impact of DI Kelly Porter and her team, read Dark Game first.
I received a copy of this book from Canelo via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Merged review:
I read and reviewed the first book in the DI Kelly Porter series - Dark Game, and while I enjoyed it, for me, it was overly graphic and too factual, in parts. Deep Fear, the second book in the series has retained the action, pace and suspense of the first, while losing some of the gore and facts, making it a perfect 5* read.
Kelly Porter is a dedicated police detective, it is part of her life, and she often sacrifices personal matters for the job. Kelly's complicated relationship with her sister Nikki continues in this sequel as does her on, off relationship with ex-serviceman Johnny, both give an insight into Kelly's emotional side and are integral to the plot.
The dark and twisty plot makes compelling reading and something you have to finish. The Lake District and Cumbria is an exciting setting, which gives the perfect cover for heinous crimes. The stark contrast of the beautiful lakes and hills with the dark, horror of the murderous crimes adds to the suspense.
The authentic and well-researched plot and the realistic characters make this story come to life, with a well disguised serial killer. The final chapters are adrenaline-fueled with a heart-stopping ending. All the questions thrown up by the story are dealt with believably, although there is one loose end about a person of interest, which could be part of another investigation?
Readable as a standalone but if you want the full impact of DI Kelly Porter and her team, read Dark Game first.
I received a copy of this book from Canelo via NetGalley in return for an honest review....more
Juniper Meadows has an influx of new people for the festive weeks. Dylan is returning home after many years, and Sadie is experiencing a me-orientatedJuniper Meadows has an influx of new people for the festive weeks. Dylan is returning home after many years, and Sadie is experiencing a me-orientated Christmas courtesy of her loving family after an unexpected break-up with her husband. The festive activities, complete with unscheduled snow, make this a lovely Christmas read. As this is the fourth book in the Juniper Meadows series, there is a continuation of the family dramas, past and present, with the returning home of a conciliatory Dylan and his teenage family. Sadie finds friendship and an unexpected romantic connection during her Christmas holiday, and it is a lovely, heartwarming read. I like the romance, the uplifting reconciliation among the Travers family, and the beautifully described festivities that are so easy to visualise. It's a lovely festive edition of a delightful series.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher....more
Humorous and relatable, this festive tale focuses on three women, all friends and how they survive the pre-Christmas build-up with their families and Humorous and relatable, this festive tale focuses on three women, all friends and how they survive the pre-Christmas build-up with their families and partners. The three women are likeable, and you invest in their lives. As the story progresses, the women take a break that turns out to be more of a lifestyle change, which makes them view their lives differently. Equally, you dislike many characters in this story, but lessons are learnt, and the women finally realise their worth. I like the female protagonists, the relatability of the family, the relationship dynamics and the humour.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher....more
The sinister beginning makes the reader aware that something terrible has happened, but the people involved and what happened is a mystery. Nothing inThe sinister beginning makes the reader aware that something terrible has happened, but the people involved and what happened is a mystery. Nothing in the story that follows is as it seems. The six people at the retreat all have secrets. The owners are not as happy as they outwardly appear, and the house is full of echoes of its traumatic past. The confusion of the protagonists and the web of lies surrounding them is emphasised by gentle pacing. The suspense increases with each character's reveal, and the mystery deepens as unscheduled disappearances and events occur. I like the unreliability of the narrators, the gradual connections with past events and the intense conclusion.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher....more
Instead of an emotional but healing journey for Stella, the main protagonist, I discovered a darker story with confrontational relationships. Stella iInstead of an emotional but healing journey for Stella, the main protagonist, I discovered a darker story with confrontational relationships. Stella is grieving the loss of her idolised best friend. She has spent the time since her death caring for her late friend's daughter and bereaved husband to the detriment of herself, her children and her husband. Her understandable grief is implicit in her behaviour, but her inability to see how her actions affect others leads to a fractured family. The family holiday is not the healing experience they need. I like the complex, relatable characters, the web of relationship dynamics and the evocative setting, which contrasts with the dark emotions. The magical element is implied rather than overt. Stella is struggling with life, as evidenced by her actions and thoughts. She has an element of unreliability that ramps up the story's suspense. It's an atmospheric story, and the toxic ethos culminating in a dramatic event is well-written and allows for an uplifting ending.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher....more
It is an evocative winter mystery. The cast of characters harbour secrets and seem to dislike the victim. The Tudor country house setting has pagan orIt is an evocative winter mystery. The cast of characters harbour secrets and seem to dislike the victim. The Tudor country house setting has pagan origins and is supposed to have ghosts, which adds to the suspenseful ethos. The festive snow makes the idyllic location claustrophobic and remote. Susan, working at the house to help the owner, is convinced the death is suspicious. I like the complex characters, the atmospheric setting and the toxic dynamic between the suspects. It is the perfect mystery for a winter's night.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher....more
Retired GP Dr Sarah Vane, newly settled in a Kent coastal town, decides to help her neighbour and friend Daphne rejuvenate her shop with a good clean.Retired GP Dr Sarah Vane, newly settled in a Kent coastal town, decides to help her neighbour and friend Daphne rejuvenate her shop with a good clean. She discovers a young woman badly hurt in the shop's doorway, and along with Daphne and her new friend Charles, Sarah decides to investigate what happened to the young woman. This engaging, cosy mystery has many credible leads but just as many dead ends. It's atmospheric, and as the suspense builds, it becomes increasingly intense. I like the amateur sleuths' dynamic, the dialogue and the twisty mystery.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher....more
Ella knows how to make an entrance as the prologue sets the scene for the passionate romance that follows, but the conflicts are complex, and the histElla knows how to make an entrance as the prologue sets the scene for the passionate romance that follows, but the conflicts are complex, and the history that defines Ella and Jake needs to be dealt with before they can have anything worth holding on to. High school American Football features strongly in this sports romance, and whilst I know very little about it, I enjoyed Ella and Jake's story. It's a small-town romance with more spice than sugar and lots of emotion. The characters are flawed and likeable, and you invest in them from the start. I like the community spirit, the family, friendships and romance.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher....more
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