Best of March 2022

With so many books out this month I've discovered new authors (Sarah Turner) as well as cemented my feelings for other authors (Greer Hendricks & Sarah Pekkanen). Read on to find out what I've been loving, lolling and puzzling over.

Stepping Up by Sarah Turner (17 Mar 2022)

Beth has never stuck at anything. She's quit more jobs and relationships than she can remember and she still sleeps in her childhood bedroom. Then, in the space of a morning, her world changes, and she finds herself guardian to her teenage niece and toddler nephew, catapulted into an unfamiliar world of bedtime stories, parents' evenings and cuddly elephants. It's time to step up.

In my opinion: ★★★★★
In this Beth who describes herself as "a runner, a bolter, reliably Team Flight in a fight or flight  scenario" finds herself having to 'step up' to look after her niece and nephew when her sister has a terrible car accident. As you'd expect it's funny from Beth getting fired from pass-the-parcel after giving one kid two prizes or ending up on the village Facebook group after putting her bins out on the wrong day to 3-year-old Ted calling  "angry swimming dad" a "stickhead" or telling the hot swimming coach that "Aunty Beth put crayons on her face....but she wouldn't share." But it's also really poignant with a lot of depth and some really moving moments - I particularly enjoyed Beth's friendship with lonely octogenarian Albert, her next door neighbour. It's testament to Sarah Turner's talent that she manages to combine the two so seamlessly - in her debut fiction novel nonetheless. I especially liked the realistic timescale of this book and that whilst the ending was positive it wasn't the fairy tale ending it could so easily have been. It's difficult to convey how good this book is, so I'll just urge to read it for yourself instead....

Love Blooms at Mermaids Point by Sarah Bennett (16 Mar 2022)

When an unexpected opportunity arises to escape to the idyllic village of Mermaids Point and at a crossroads in life, bestselling author Alex Nelson is hot on the heels of his brother, Tom, who has recently moved there. Buying a rundown bookshop might be just his latest harebrained scheme, but Alex has never been one to do things by halves.

After spending her early years caring for her mother, Ivy Fisher is finally ready to start living her own life. But when the impossibly charming, impossibly good-looking Alex Nelson swoops in and snatches her dream out from under her nose, it really is the last straw. Forced by circumstances to spend more time with him, Ivy finally gets a peek of the real man beneath the confident exterior, and she likes what she sees. But just when things are starting to come together for them, Ivy is reminded why men can never be trusted. Is Alex who he says he is, or is he using Mermaids Point as nothing more than research fodder for his next bestseller?

In my opinion: ★★★★

I love this charming yet contemporary series and the inhabitants of The Point, a gorgeous seaside village. And, that is the best thing about a series - catching up with much loved characters. Since meeting Alex previously I've been looking forward to his story but I did feel that unusually this one was almost solely Alex and Ivy. I missed the other characters and the variety a wider cast brings. That said another gorgeous, heart-warming, feel good story and I can't wait for the next one - fingers crossed it'll be Nick's story.....

Reputation by Sarah Vaughan (3 Mar 2022)

Emma Webster is a respectable MP.
Emma Webster is a devoted mother.
Emma Webster is innocent of the murder of a tabloid journalist.
Emma Webster is a liar.
#Reputation: The story you tell about yourself. And the lies others choose to believe…

In my opinion: ★★★★

Designed to make you think this is a gripping story exploring reputations; perceived and real, as well as trying to protect them at all costs and how easily they can be destroyed. The characters, whilst not particularly engaging, were well developed coming under ever more pressure until they react on the spur of the moment. This was told mainly from MP Emma's perspective but also other POVs, and across two timelines - the present day court case (which I really enjoyed) and past events leading to trial. This did mean, however, there was some repetition with the same points made again and again. I wasn't sure about the ending either but overall a good read.

The Golden Couple by Greer Hendricks & Sarah Pekkanen (3 Mar 2022)

If Avery Chambers can’t fix you in 10 sessions, she won’t take you on as a client. Marissa and Mathew Bishop seem like the golden couple - until Marissa cheats. After a friend forwards an article about Avery, Marissa takes a chance on this maverick therapist, who lost her license due to controversial methods. When the Bishops glide through Avery’s door and Marissa reveals her infidelity, all three are set on a collision course. Because the biggest secrets in the room are still hidden, and it’s no longer simply a marriage that’s in danger.

In my opinion: ★★★★

I loved #YouAreNotAlone by this author pairing and once again really enjoyed the writing with its alternating POVs, and short, snappy chapters. In Avery, the authors also created another super smart, intriguing, badass female character, whose story really gripped me; more so than the main storyline in fact although perhaps that was because I just didn't take to Marissa in the same way. Or perhaps it was because this particular plot didn't feel quite as action packed, crazy and tumultuous as before. I also felt a bit let down by the big reveal, and would've liked more insight into the character's motivations especially with regards to past events. All that said this was a great read but my expectations were impossibly high as a result of loving their previous book so much.

The Paris Apartment by Lucy Foley (22 Mar 2022)

A beautiful old apartment block, far from the glittering lights of the Eiffel Tower and the bustling banks of the Seine. Where nothing goes unseen. And everyone has a story to unlock.

The watchful concierge

The scorned lover

The prying journalist

The naïve student

The unwanted guest

Something terrible happened here last night. A mystery lies behind the door of apartment three. Only you – and the killer – hold the key . . .

In my opinion: ★★★★

I really wanted to love this having had mixed feelings about the author's previous book 'The Guest List' - but sadly was left feeling exactly the same. Once again Lucy Foley delivered a clever closed room who-dunnit with a big, unexpected twist at the end. But, once again it was the (small) cast of characters that disappointed. Whilst diverse, the residents of 'The Paris Apartment' were all more weird than flawed and as such I didn't like or connect with any of them which meant I didn't really care who'd dunnit it. I did want to know why though!

Mothers and Daughters by Erica James (17 Mar 2022)

Since the sudden death of her husband, Naomi has steadily rebuilt the life they shared in the village of Tilsham by the sea. Her eldest daughter, Martha, is sensible and determined - just like her father was. If she could just get pregnant with her husband, life would be perfect. Willow, the youngest, was always more sunny and easy-going, yet drifted through life, much to her father's frustration. But now, with charming new boyfriend, Rick, she has a very good reason to settle down. The three women are as close as can be. But there are things Naomi has kept from her daughters. Like the arrival of Ellis, a long-lost friend from way back. And she's certainly never told them that her marriage to their father wasn't quite what it seemed... 

In my opinion: ★★★★

This was my second read from this author and once again focused on family relationships - mother and daughter, sisters, and in-laws or newcomers. The storytelling switches between recently widowed Naomi and her two grown-up daughter's, Martha and Willow (who are chalk and cheese) and its heart-warming to see the effect various events have on their dynamics. Despite having equal 'air-time', however, Martha's story wasn't as powerful as the other two which was a shame. This was a nice, easy read but I did find it quite slow and a little underwhelming compared to "Coming Home to Island House" which set in the war was a beautifully epic story.

Impossible by Sarah Lotz (17 Mar 2022)

Nick: Failed writer. Failed husband. Dog owner.

Bee: Serial dater. Dress maker. Pringles enthusiast.

One day, their paths cross over a misdirected email. The connection is instant, electric. They feel like they’ve known each other all their lives. Nick buys a new suit, gets on a train. Bee steps away from her desk, sets off to meet him under the clock at Euston station.

Think you know how the rest of the story goes? They did too . . .

But this is a story with more twists than most. This is Impossible.

In my opinion: ★★★

Described as a love story "with more twists than most" and with cover quotes from some renowned thriller authors I think I was expecting a mix of two my favourite genres - contemporary romance and psychological thrillers. Had I realised the storyline or paid more attention to the "Impossible" inference I may have realised that this wouldn't be my thing. Obviously fiction by its nature is imaginary but I like my fiction to be based in realism and without saying too much or giving anything away this wasn't. I also found it quite slow, unnecessarily long and slightly repetitive but perhaps that was more reflective of it not being my thing.

Best of February 2022

It's February - the month of love so its perhaps no surprise that my book of the month was a contemporary (and very funny) love story. Here's my best of the new releases out now.

One Night on the Island by Josie Silver (17 Feb 2022)

When the editor of her dating column asks her to marry herself on a remote Irish island - Cleo agrees. Cleo arrives at her luxury cabin to find a tall, dark, stubborn American who insists it's actually his. Mack refuses to leave, and Cleo won't budge either. With a storm fast approaching, they reluctantly hunker down together. It's just one night, after all . . .But what if one night on the island is just the beginning?

In my opinion: ★★★★★
I LOVED this! I love a 'his & hers' story so enjoyed the alternating chapters of Cleo "the stubborn, surprising English girl" and Mack "the abrasive, beardy American". I loved the characters - both Cleo who was actually really funny (as well as stubborn) and Mack who was actually kind and thoughtful (as well as beardy) and the strong supporting cast of islanders. I loved the storyline which was as much about self discovery as romance; regular people navigating regular life events in a simple, genuine and heart-felt way - some of which really resonated. And, I loved Josie Silver's writing style which is colloquial, relatable and funny but also has real depth - the clever chapter titles were a nice touch too. But, most of all I loved the ending which whilst a happy ending, wasn't the classic fairy tale ending but more realistic and fitting for the characters and their journey. So in case you haven't guessed I totally recommend this and can't wait to seek out more by this author.

The Great Summer Street Party (Part One) by Georgia Hill (3 Feb 2022)

Welcome to Berecombe-by-the-Sea for a year of very special celebrations…the seventy-fifth anniversary of D-Day. All surviving soldiers who were billeted in the town have been invited for street parties, a D-Day parade, a black-tie ball at The Henville and much, much more. Ashley Lyddon arrives in the quaint coastal community feeling more than a little lost. A certain American history lecturer, Eddie McQueen, has also blown into town, just like the GIs did seventy-five years previously.

In my opinion: ★★★★★

It's great to be back in Berecombe although having read "The Little Book Cafe" a while ago I couldn't quite remember all the residents which was a shame. But I did instantly remember the picturesque seaside town, the adorable bookshop and cafe, and the warm-hearted community spirit. Once again I loved the author's writing style too - contemporary yet sweet and wholesome too. My only criticism is that as part one of a bigger story it was over all too soon.

It Could Never Happen Here by Eithne Shortall (3 Feb 2022)

Beverley Franklin will do whatever it takes to protect her local school's reputation. So when a scandal involving her own daughter threatens to derail the annual school musical's appearance on national television, Beverley goes into overdrive. But in her efforts to protect her daughter and keep the musical on track, she misses what's really going, both in her own house and in the insular Glass Lake community - with dramatic consequences. Glass Lake primary school's reputation is about to be shattered...

In my opinion: ★★★★

I chose this because it's being billed as perfect for fans of Motherland which is currently one of my fav TV shows. And it is - just like the show it's an honest and amusing depiction of life as a modern-day mother. For example, one mum says she's glad her son doesn't want to be in the school play because "he's got zero stage presence....He's the only one of my boys I ever left at the supermarket." Or the headteacher who seeking a confession from the children says "I have all day", meaning "forty minutes before the final bell went and she was legally required to send them home."

I particularly liked Christine though whose cat has been stolen but children are told "He was a kitten but now he's a cat and he's decided to move out". She later gets her kids to mark down Mrs Rodger's movements in a notebook before forcing one of them to help her break into said neighbour's house to get the cat back. This I might add is elderly but wily Mrs Rodgers who always remembers "to hunch herself forward - fragility her greatest weapon." I guess humorous parenting is not enough on its own and you still need a storyline but the murder mystery element seemed an odd and unexpected choice, especially the triggering way it panned out. But, just a minor down point in an otherwise brilliantly funny, entertaining and relatable book - and one I'd totally recommend (especially for fans of Motherland).

The Perfect Escape by Leah Konen (3 Feb 2022)

When her husband Harry walks out after just six months, a girls' weekend away with two friends seems like just what Sam needs. But they aren't even halfway to their destination when things start to go wrong. And that's only the beginning. Because there are three things Sam doesn't yet know: 
One of her friends is lying about what happened.

One is lying about who she is.

And one of them will never make it home . . .

In my opinion: ★★★★

This was an enjoyable, easy read with plenty of action, twists and turns, flawed characters, exes and tension. I constantly changed my mind about the various characters, who to trust and who might have done what - feeling empathy for someone one minute and doubting them the next. And, whilst some of the reveals were not wholly unexpected, the final twist was totally unpredictable and cleverly brilliant.

The Boyfriend by Michelle Frances (3 Feb 2022)

A young man disappears during a stag weekend in the woods. Years later, he's still missing. But his friends who were with him that day are still searching for him. Still hunting. They hike deep into the wilderness. With them is missing person specialist Frankie Elkin. What they don't know is that they are putting their own lives in terrifying danger, and may not come back alive . . .

In my opinion: ★★★★

This is a great premise - a woman who after a head injury can't remember the last six months including her seemingly too-good-to-be-true new boyfriend. And, it starts well but becomes quite samey as Amy tries to regain her memory and quite obvious where the story is going with the early introduction of Harry. The biggest twist for me was not the reveal but Harry's u-turn from someone you could sympathise with and understand to someone you couldn't, it wasn't so much a character development or unreliable narrator as a total misfit. In fact the ending in general was deeply unsatisfying and sadly more of a non-ending. Despite being quite critical, I did enjoy the read but it just didn't wow me or quite live up to its premise or my previous read by this author.

Never Work With Animals by Gareth Steel (3 Feb 2022)

Gareth Steel has been a vet for nearly twenty years and has worked all over the UK, across both rural and city practices, dealing with all manner of household pets and farm animals. This is his fascinating raw account of just how involved the job is and the toll the extreme emotions that come with it can take, but it also a heart-warming and often humorous story of the desperate lengths we go to for the love of animals.

In my opinion: ★★★★

I'm definitely more of a fiction fan than non-fiction, but as the only autobiographies I've ever read have typically related to animals somehow I thought I'd give this a go. And, I really did enjoy the various animal stories, particularly the honesty and humour with which author Gareth Steel recounts these patients (and their owners). Although I must admit the intro nearly put me off where author Gareth Steel explains he'll be covering some "difficult, uncomfortable and even distressing issues" - even more so as the first chapter is about one of his first tasks as a newly qualified vet which was to shoot a bull who'd broken it's leg. But with the exception of one chapter pointedly titled "Time to say Goodbye" it wasn't as emotional as I feared. It was however a bit heavy going at times. Designed to "inform and provoke thought" some of the veterinary explanations were a little to scientific and some of the ethical and political discussions a bit too ranty for me. Overall a fascinating insight into the highs and lows of a life as a vet.

Breathless by Amy McCulloch (17 Feb 2022)

When struggling journalist Cecily Wong is invited to join an expedition to climb one of the world's tallest mountains, it seems like the chance of a lifetime. As their small team starts to climb, things start to go wrong. There's a theft. Then an accident. Then a mysterious note, pinned to her tent: there's a murderer on the mountain. The higher they get, the more dangerous the climb becomes, and the more they need to trust one another.

In my opinion: ★★★

I totally agree with main character Cecily who said: "So many mountains, so many stories, so many egos, so many beards." It was hard to keep all the various 'bearded' characters straight especially at the beginning and much of the mountain 'stuff' was overly and unnecessarily technical for me. The storyline was unique and gripping to start but then became a bit slow going (much like the climb) before finally unfolding into a dramatic but rather bizarre and disappointing end. A great premise which sadly didn't quite deliver for me.

Best of January 2022

It's a new year, so here's my best of this month's new releases including two gorgeous uplifting stories of love and friendship by two of my favourite authors and an author I've been wanting to read for ages.

One Step Too Far by Lisa Gardner (20 Jan 2022)

A young man disappears during a stag weekend in the woods. Years later, he's still missing. But his friends who were with him that day are still searching for him. Still hunting for answers. They hike deep into the wilderness. With them is missing person specialist Frankie Elkin. What they don't know is that they are putting their own lives in terrifying danger, and may not come back alive . . .

In my opinion: ★★★★

I'm still not sure whether I liked this or not. Whilst the first half was a little slow, from midway the pace picked up - as did my interest - and I couldn't turn the pages fast enough. But, then it sadly it was one of those where after racing to the end, you're then left thinking 'really?' I mean I never could've guessed the outcome but that was because it was ridiculously unbelievable. Main character Frankie was also difficult to like being a stubborn, critical loner but she had a acerbic wit and seemed to be on a journey of self love or discovery, so it was quite disappointing when in the end that came to nothing. So, overall an enjoyable but anti-climatic read.

A Wedding at Hedgehog Hollow by Jessica Redland (6 Jan 2022)

Life at Hedgehog Hollow is never dull, although Samantha hopes that the new year ahead will be a little less chaotic as she prepares to marry the love of her life, Josh. But disaster strikes when she checks the rescue centre's bank account after the festive season and discovers it has been emptied. Phoebe is desperate to escape the shadow of her family, infamously known for their attacks on Samantha's beloved rescue centre. Could the kindness of the Hedgehog Hollow team be the chance she needs for a fresh start, or will her family's secrets continue to drag her back?

In my opinion: ★★★★★

Pretty much a guaranteed five stars from me as I love this series and it's characters so much. That said I really did enjoy this one as Phoebe and Darcie are a great addition. From previous installments we knew of Phoebe already but I absolutely loved her as a main character and her heart breaking story was compelling - six-year-old Darcie was adorable too. And, that's why these books work as a series or standalones because each book focuses on new or different characters (plus Jessica provides a helpful character list and story so far synopsis). In this one I also really liked that the wedding happened but c It's ontrary to the name "A Wedding at Hedgehog Hollow" it certainly didn't dominate and was just part of a richer story. Bring on the next one.....

The Little Shop of Hidden Treasures by Holly Hepburn (6 Jan 2022)

When Hope loses her husband, she moves home to York to be near her family and to begin to build a new life. Taking a job at the antique shop she has always admired, she finds herself crossing paths with two very different men. Will, who has recently become the guardian to his niece after the tragic death of her parents. And Ciaran, who she enlists to help solve the mystery of an Egyptian antique. But can she trust herself to choose the right man? And will that bring her everything she really needs?

In my opinion: ★★★★

Another utterly charming and gorgeous read from one of my favourite authors. Main character Hope is rebuilding her life back home in York, taking a new job at an antique shop and meeting lots of new people including Professor Sex-God Ciaran and adorably cute Will. The shop's hidden treasure offers a story within a story through the discovery of an ancient Egyptian engagement ring and accompanying love letter. Once again Holly Hepburn delivers a brilliant cast with characters of all generations from four-year-old Brodie to the eclectic but not-so-young Mr Young or formidable Eleanor Lovelace. Originally published as four novellas, this is now available as a single book and a must-read for all fans of feel-good women's fiction.

Coming Soon

Thanks to NetGalley and some wonderful publishers I've had the chance to pre-read some exciting novels well ahead of time. So, here's a few much anticipated releases not due out until much later in the year – but all available to pre-order from your favourite bookshop.

The Family Game by Catherine Steadman (8 November 2022)

Harriet Reed, a novelist, is newly engaged to Edward Holbeck, the heir of an extremely powerful family. As Harriet is drawn into their lavish world, the family seems perfectly welcoming. So when Edward's father hands Harriet a tape of a book he's been working on, she is desperate to listen. But as she presses play, it's clear that this isn't just a novel. It's a confession. And, suddenly, the game is in motion. Harriet must work out if this is part of a plan to test her loyalty. Or something far darker. This might be a game to the Holbeck family but losing might still prove deadly.

In my opinion: ★★★★
Another really unique if slightly far-fetched storyline from an author I always enjoy. I was totally captivated by the frighteningly bizarre games the family played such as a treasure hunt where the losers' secrets will be exposed to the winning player and hide and seek in the pitch black with the seeker a terrifyingly realistic monster. The ending was a crazy blood bath but I didn't see the twist coming at all.

The Will by Rebecca Reid (10 November 2022)

Cecily Mordaunt is dead. On the evening of her funeral, her family will gather for dinner and each will be given a letter, revealing who is the next custodian of Roxborough Hall. The house is a burden, a millstone, a full-time job . . . but they all want it. And some are willing do anything to get it.

In my opinion: ★★★★
A unique and intriguing concept where at a ceremonial dinner the deceased's family are each given a letter revealing why they have or have not been chosen to inherit the family mansion. So of course there's various secrets and reasons why each might or might not be worthy of the house and a family of extremely interesting but flawed characters. The book switches POVs and timelines often, with all the characters getting equal air time and therefore my attention. However, only the eventual heir's story is ever completed, meaning the rest end up serving no real purpose. Similarly there were a few suspicious happenings that didn't really amount to anything either and so by the end I was left feeling 'is that it?'.

Best of December 2021

It's a busy month but don't forget to make time to check out some of these new releases - perfect wintry vibes for the festive season....

A Cornish Christmas Murder by Fiona Leitch (9 Dec 2021)

It’s three days before Christmas, and detective-turned-chef Jodie ‘Nosey’ Parker is drafted in to cater a charity event run by a notorious millionaire at a 13th-century abbey on Bodmin Moor. Things get more complicated when a snowstorm descends, stranding them all, and the next morning they find one of the guests has been gruesomely murdered in their bed. Secrets mull in every corner – can Jodie solve the crime before the killer strikes again?

In my opinion: ★★★★

If you've not read this series before, it's a light-hearted, fun, cozy, murder mystery novel - exactly as described. This works as a stand-alone but the best thing about a series is catching up with characters that you love. And, I love these characters from Jodie aka Nosey "the undisputed queen of poking my nose into things that routinely got me into trouble" to her mum who's "like an airport sniffer dog when it comes to PG Tips" but also thinks 'Die Hard' is a good Christmas film for an eight-year-old. It's not just the characters though it's the dynamics and banter between them that makes them so fun. For that reason this one did feel a little flatter for me - I mean don't get me wrong, I was totally rooting for Jodie and Nathan to get together in the previous books but at the same time I really missed the love/hate, will they/won't they thing they used to have.

Hide by Nell Pattison (9 Dec 2021)

Seven friends. One killer. You can run, but you can’t hide…

It’s Boxing Day and your friendship group has planned a hike.

You know tensions are running high.

You’ve heard the rumours flying around.

This trip is a chance for you to reconnect.

But as the sun sets, you hear a gun shot.

One of your group is dead.

And someone you know killed them…

In my opinion: ★★★★

I love a locked-room murder mystery as it goes without saying that the murderer - and next victim - is a character you know as there's a limited group of suspects. Set on a closed nature reserve at night during a snow storm, this was the perfect closed "room" setting where the clever title could equally have related to the bird hides just as much as hiding for your life. The small set of characters were cleverly developed so as one of them says: "I feel like I've seen everyone here in a different light this evening, and that has changed my opinion of them all, some for better, others for worse." In fact the antagonist turns out to be a true psychopath which I didn't foresee but really enjoyed. What I didn't buy, however, were the overly convenient connections between the characters. Lots to like with this but it was slightly let down by the middle which consisted of a lot of running around in the dark without much actually happening.

Best of November 2021

It's November and here's my best of the new releases out this month.....

On A Night Like This by Lindsey Kelk (11 Nov 2021)

Within days of wishing she could change her life, Fran Cooper is acting assistant to a celebrity, on a yacht in the Mediterranean, and en route to a tiny Italian island and the glittering Crystal Ball, along with the world’s rich and famous. When she - quite literally - bumps into a handsome American called Evan he makes her a promise: no last names, no life stories, just one unforgettable night. Yet Evan belongs at the Crystal Ball and Fran is a gatecrasher. They may be soulmates, but their homes are an ocean apart and their lives a world apart. They’ll never meet again - unless, on a night like this, everything can change forever....

In my opinion: ★★★★★

I LOVED this! I loved the character of Fran - someone who's "more Monica than Rachel without so much of a hint of Phoebe" but who's also so so funny. For example, describing the house she lives in as a "nana museum" or declaring "Oh my god, I'm offal" during a meltdown about her and boyfriend Stew merging into one person where he's the good bits, ie arms and legs, and she's the boring but vital inside bits. And, it's not just Fran that's funny, the writing is brilliantly funny with plenty of smart observations such as dancing being "intrinsically embarrassing for ninety-nine percent of humans." There's also plenty of situational humour too including one of my favourite scenes where she gets drunk onboard a yacht and ends up stealing the captain's hat and screeching "I'm the captain now!" This is a modern day Cinderella type story, with great characters, a peek into the lives of the rich and famous, and plenty of lols! I can not recommend enough!

Just Haven't Met You Yet by Sophie Cousens (11 Nov 2021)

When she picks up the wrong suitcase at the airport, Laura wonders if this could be the start of something that's written in the stars. From piano sheet-music to a battered copy of her favourite book, Laura finds in the bag evidence of everything she could hope for in a partner. Now Laura is determined to track down the owner of the suitcase, and her own happy ending. But what if fate has other ideas?

In my opinion: ★★★★

Sophie Cousens is brilliant at creating creating super cute rom-coms and warm, likeable characters. And, there are lots of funny moments in this from scattering tampons all over the airport to being stuck in a coat cupboard while the lady of the manor gets it on with the local beekeeper. Like main character Laura "Cheer up, love, might never happen" is one of my most hated expressions but thanks to Laura I now have the best retort in: "I am allowed to look grumpy if I want to. It is my face and my prerogative not to smile....It is not my responsibility to make the world a prettier place for you." Alongside the humour, there's also some more poignant moments and emotional depth around life, loss, family, friendship, self-discovery, happiness and fate - it's more than just a romance which I really like. I also enjoyed the premise of this - choosing between two very different love interests - and the idea of fate and what we think we want vs what we actually want. 

The Woman on the Pier by BP Walter (11 Nov 2021)

Two strangers meet on the pier. Only one walks away…

Screenwriter Caroline Byrne is desperate to know why her daughter Jessica died, murdered in Stratford when she was supposed to be at a friend’s in Somerset. When Caroline discovers the messages Jessica had been sending a boy named Michael, she realises it’s because of him. Because he failed to meet her that day. He’s the reason why her daughter is dead. And so she makes a choice. He’s the one who’s going to pay.

In my opinion: ★★★

I’m guilty of going into this one blind which was a big mistake as there are so many triggers (child abuse, sexual abuse, terrorism and addiction to callout just a few). It's also not a suspense thriller but more a domestic thriller about an unhinged mother who needs someone to blame for the death of her daughter. But the main problem for me was that the mother's character was so unlikeable even pre-tragedy that it was hard to muster any sympathy for her. And, the boy's story is a tough read - too tough for me. It's also an overwhelmingly tragic tale from the off, with no happy ending and no closure!  

Best of October 2021

I'm getting in the festive spirit this month with an abundance of Christmas reads.

Midnight in the Snow by Karen Swan (14 Oct 2021)

Award-winning director Clover Phillips is riding high when she encounters Kit Foley; a surfer and snowboarder as well-known for controversy as he is for winning championships. Involved in an accident that had devastating consequences for a bitter rival, Kit has never spoken about what really happened that day. Determined to find out the truth, Clover heads to the snowy wilderness of the Austrian Alps, sharing a romantic winter wonderland with a man who can’t stand her. But as she delves deeper, Clover finds herself both drawn to Kit, and even more convinced he’s hiding something. 

In my opinion: ★★★★★

I love it when a book surprises you and this was so not what I was expecting but in a really really good way. Not remembering the blurb or why I'd picked this up I was expecting a super cute, light-hearted, festive romance. Combining the fiercely competitive worlds of professional surfing and snow boarding with the demanding documentary film making industry, this definitely wasn't light-hearted but it was totally fascinating, I was instantly drawn in. With such intense, guarded and driven lead characters who passionately hated each other - Kit holding Clover responsible for ruining his career and her blaming him for her friend's husband's death - it also wasn't a super cute romance but a fantastic build-up of tension into a compelling love/hate thing. And whilst there was a romantic element, it was quality over quantity and just a part of a much wider plot which also included a little mystery and intrigue to guess at along the way. I haven't read the author before but in case you hadn't gathered I was totally captivated by this, loving everything about it and will certainly be reaching for others of her books now.

A Cosy Christmas at Bridget's Bicycle Bakery by Alex Brown (14 Oct 2021)

Finding yourself without a home in the weeks before Christmas would break most people, but for Bridget Carrington it’s a chance to start again. Mulberry-On-Sea has always been her happy place and she’s hoping it can work its magic this festive season and heal her family after a difficult year. Now, as the community wraps Bridget and her children in its warm embrace, she starts to feel like herself again. With a new business, kids who are starting to smile, and the promise of a second chance at love, Bridget’s holiday season might just be a happy ever after…

In my opinion: ★★★★

This was nice. It was a sweet, feel-good, easy read with some funny moments and plenty of festive magic. The recipes at the back were also a nice touch. It was almost too nice though and could perhaps have done with a bit more spark - especially on the romance front as the chemistry between Bridget and Jack was a bit platonic feeling. Apparently this was part of a series, with lots of returning characters, but it read well as a stand alone book too.

Christmas Surprises at Mermaids Point by Sarah Bennett (22 Oct 2021)

In Mermaids Point, everyone is getting ready for the festive season. For Nerissa and Tom, this will be their first Christmas as a couple. Laurie and Jake's plans are turned upside down when Jake’s mum offers them an unexpected gift. Alex can’t help but be charmed by beautiful and talented Ivy, but he’s still recovering from his ex-wife’s betrayal. And, as far as Nick is concerned is Christmas the perfect time to finally reach out to pop sensation Aurora Storm - the ‘one that got away’. 

In my opinion: ★★★★

As a fan of the Mermaid Point series I loved the chance to catch up with some of my fav characters but this is definitely more of an epilogue to the previous books and a prologue to the next than a story in its own right. I enjoyed it but don’t think it would be worth reading if you haven't read at least one of the two previous books in the series. I can't wait for book number three now.....

Underneath the Christmas Tree by Heidi Swain (28 Oct 2021)

Wynter’s Trees is the home of Christmas. But for Liza Wynter, it’s a millstone around her neck. It was her father’s pride and joy but now he’s gone, she can’t have anything to do with it. Until her father’s business partner decides to retire and she must go back to handle the transition to his son Ned. When Liza arrives, she discovers a much-loved business that’s flourishing under Ned’s stewardship. And she’s happy to stay and help for the Christmas season, but then she has other plans. But will the place where she grew up make her change her mind? And can it weave its Christmas cheer around her heart…?

In my opinion: ★★★★★

I love all Heidi Swain's books but the festive ones are definitely my favourites.....and set on a Christmas tree plantation with a festive market thrown in too this festive extravaganza was no exception! But, what I love most about Heidi's books is that they have so much depth - not just a Christmas novel or just a romance, her stories also feature friendship, community spirit, family and entrepreneurship. Add to that a fabulous array of likable - or lovable in the case of leading man Ned - characters and you have another brilliant, cozy, feel good read!