Best of June 2022

It's Jubilee June but it's also a month of big, much anticipated releases for me from some of my favourite authors - Allie Reynolds, Anna Bell, Lizzy Dent and Jessica Redland. With so many favourites it's been impossible to pick just one #BookOfTheMonth.....

Note to Self by Anna Bell (23 June 2022)

One summer's day seventeen years ago Edie and Joel meet. Their connection is instant and a friendship is born, although Edie can't help but wish for more. But just as she builds up the courage to lay her heart on the line, one night changes everything... Edie's moved on so the last thing she expects to receive on her thirty-fifth birthday is an email from her eighteen-year-old self. As more emails arrive, following her own advice, Edie heads back to the place where it all began, and finds her path unexpectedly crossing with Joel's once more. Could this finally be their chance at love? Or are some things better left in the past?

In my opinion: ★★★★★
This was always going to be a winner for me as I absolutely love Anna Bell's light-hearted writing style and brilliantly funny romcoms. But I particularly loved this concept of writing to your future self with advice and hopes for your life, and enjoyed both the past teenage chapters and current day Edie's story just as much. Another great cast of characters complemented the storyline, and once again littered with spot-on humourous one-liners. For example, Layla who when asked how school sports day was replies: "Brutal. We spend the day watching our kids, who aren't allowed to be seen as winners or losers, and then when they let the parents race, all those rules go out the window and its a fight to the finish line."

The plot does tackle some serious subjects too like grief and alcoholism but in a light-hearted, digestible way. And, some of the advice the friends give each other really resonated with me such as "No's usually the wrong answer", "nothing has to be for the rest of your life" and "the only thing you should ever be scared of in life is not trying." So a not unexpected but totally deserved 5-stars from me.

The Bay by Allie Reynolds (23 June 2022)

Kenna arrives in Sydney to surprise her best friend. But Mikki and her fiancé Jack are about to head away on a trip, so Kenna finds herself tagging along for the ride. Sorrow Bay is beautiful, wild and dangerous. A remote surfing spot with waves to die for, cut off from the rest of the world. Here Kenna meets the mysterious group of people who will do anything to keep their paradise a secret. As Kenna gets drawn into their world, she sees the extremes they are prepared to go to for the next thrill. And everyone seems to be hiding something. But one thing is rapidly becoming clear about The Bay: nobody ever leaves.

In my opinion: ★★★★★
This was not what I was expecting from having read and loved the author's previous book #Shiver. In that I particularly loved the competitive sport aspect and so was looking forward to more of the same here but with surfing instead of snowboarding. This had more of a cult feeling, with tribe members who live for surfing rather than being professional sportspeople. That's not to say it wasn't competitive though, as the six (seven if you count main character Kenna) dysfunctional, obnoxious, ruthless, adrenaline junkies competed on absolutely everything from holding their breath under water to free rock climbing - these initiation or 'trust' exercises all designed by tribe leader Sky to push the physical and mental boundaries. Despite not particularly liking any of the characters or the cult vibe this was still weirdly addictive with its fast pace, short snappy chapters, high tension and undercurrent of danger. I couldn't put it down.

The Setup by Lizzy Dent (9 June 2022)

Mara Williams reads her horoscope every day - but she wasn't expecting to be in a whole other country when destiny finally found her. Just as a fortune teller reveals that her true love is about to arrive, a gorgeous stranger literally walks into her life. And now Mara is determined to bring them together again . . . Surely even fate needs a nudge in the right direction sometimes? But while Mara is getting ready for 'the one', the universe intervenes. Her new flatmate Ash is funny, and kind, and sexy as hell. There was no predicting this: it's as if her destiny just arrived on her doorstep.

In my opinion: ★★★★★
Another great story and cast of diverse characters from author Lizzy Dent. But it's the dynamics and banter between them, particularly the team at the Lido, that makes them all so real and likeable. Much like #TheSummerJob this was funny with highlights being realising the life drawing model is actually your boss, having an allergic reaction to eyelash extensions and getting mobbed by seagulls. But, I also loved the little life lessons such as "everyone is someone else's heartache" and learning to trust yourself. I loved it!

Chasing Dreams at Hedgehog Hollow by Jessica Redland (28 June 2022)

Samantha has a secret. Returning home from her dream honeymoon, she's ready for the next chapter of her life with Josh. Or is she? Lauren has given up on love. Twenty-six years ago the love of her life, Shaun, left her a note and was never seen again. Two painful divorces later she still can't face opening up to anyone. But little does Lauren know that the closure she's dreamt of for all these years may be closer than she thinks, and perhaps the only way to let new love in is to forgive and forget. Samantha and Lauren will need the love and support from the Hedgehog Hollow family more than ever.

In my opinion: ★★★★★
Fans of this super cute but contemporary series will love this. Once again Jessica Redland got this just right so that even though it was Lauren's story the hedgehogs and rescue centre still featured. I loved getting to know Lauren and her positive attitude to life - as she puts it ""shit happens and its how you deal with it that makes you happy or miserable". But I also loved catching up with all the other characters, especially Chloe who's probably my favourite., and seeing how their stories and lives are continuing. And, if you haven't read any of the previous ones but like feel-good stories about relationships (family, friends and romantic) with a great cast of genuinely nice and likeable characters (including the prickly ones) the I've doubt that you'll also love this. I can't wait for the next and sadly last installment from this brilliant series....

Stranger On Board by Cameron Ward (23 June 2022) 

When ex-marine Sarah French joins a luxury super yacht as on-board security, she's excited to get her life - and career - back on track. As they head into open water, though, tensions between the crew quickly build. And when someone goes missing, Sarah has a terrifying realisation. One of them is a killer. All of them are suspects. To protect the other passengers, Sarah needs to uncover the killer's identity, and return the boat safely to shore. But there's a storm on the horizon - and not all of them will make it out alive...

In my opinion: ★★★★
This was like a 'Die Hard' film only with a badass female lead. It was a totally gripping, fast paced, action thriller but also a bit ridiculous in terms of believability with the fight scenes and Sarah's ability to keep going despite multiple injuries and gun shot wounds. It was also pretty obvious early on who the baddie and their sidekick were but enjoy it for what it is which is a great, over-the-top, fictional, easy read. I liked it a lot!

Sun Damage by Sabine Durrant (2 June 2022)

Nine guests arrive at a remote villa in the south of France. They know each other well. Or think they do. But at least one of them has plenty to hide - and nowhere to run. Under the relentless sun, loyalties will be tested, secrets revealed, and tensions pushed to the point of no return.

In my opinion: ★★★★
From the blurb I thought this was going to be a closed room murder mystery. So, the con aspect was really unexpected, reminding me of the TV series 'Hustle', and Ali's uncoventional life as a professional scammer totally captivated me. However, after such a strong start the plot kind of fizzled out and became more of a domestic drama with the guests all hiding secrets from each other - most of which also didn't really come to much. I was expecting and wanting more to happen, some sort of grand finale, super smart con or big twist. So in the end this was more of a 'like' than 'love'.

Storm by Stephanie Merritt (9 June 2022)

A beautiful French chateau. An unexpected guest. A night that will end in murder.
Jo Lawless is still grieving her husband when his oldest friends invite her to a weekend houseparty in France. She’s always felt like an outsider in the group but she decides to go, hoping their shared loss will bring them closer together. But the weekend is disrupted by the arrival of an unexpected guest, whose presence brings old tensions to the surface. Long-buried secrets begin to emerge, and it’s clear that at least one person is bent on revenge…

In my opinion: ★★★★
This wasn't really what I was expecting. I guess from the description I was expecting a closed room murder mystery but it was more a revenge plot with the murder one of the least significant parts. I found the pace a bit slow especially to start and the characters difficult to understand. For example, by the end I still wasn't sure whether main character Jo loved or loathed her husband. The writing was also a bit hard going with long chapters and dense text (but maybe that was just the formatting on my e-reader) which didn't help. In short it was difficult to get into but enjoyable enough once I did.

Best of May 2022

I'm feeling summer vibes this month with all bar one of my reads featuring holiday destinations or celebrations. Get in the mood too with my top picks for May....

The Wedding Season by Katy Birchall (26 May 2022)

Freya Scott's wedding to Matthew is the first of eight in her calendar this year. But when Matthew calls things off hours before they walk down the aisle, Freya’s entire life plan goes up in smoke. Humiliated and heartbroken, the last thing she wants is to attend a summer of other peoples’ nuptials. Fortunately, her friends have an idea: together they devise a series of outrageous challenges for Freya to complete at each event. By the time the final wedding arrives, she will discover that the road to a happy ending sometimes has unexpected detours – and that perhaps her own love story isn’t over just yet. 

In my opinion: ★★★★★

I loved this!!! Right from page three's tongue-in-cheek send up of the ridiculousness of weddings and deciding between "white or almost white or cream" for napkins, I knew that this was going to be funny. And it was - really truly funny from getting dumped in a broom cupboard to getting stuck in a toilet and spoiling a bride's big church entrance. Some have said there wasn't enough romance but I much prefer a smattering of romance alongside female friendships because as bestie Ruby says "there's nothing like the friendship kind of love". And I really loved great dynamics and banter between leading lady Freya and her friendship group.

In this case "the wedding season" also added a fun element and the whole storyline from miserable jilted bride to sassy single lady ready to embark on a new chapter that could "turn into something or nothing at all" was really authentic and relatable to anyone who's been through a break up. I also recognised the "laughing trick" as something I do on the dance floor. Having absolutely loved Katy Birchall's previous wedding-themed book #TheSecretBridesmaid I was almost scared to read this in case it wasn't as good but I needn't have worried and can not wait for her next one.

The Great Summer Street Party: Part 3 by Georgia Hill (20 May 2022)

Berecombe’s year of commemoration may be coming to a close… but the rest of Ashley Lydden’s new life has only just begun! Ashley couldn’t have predicted that she’d find herself a whole new – much happier – life in the quiet, seaside town of Berecombe, but now she can’t imagine being anywhere else. So when things start going all kinds of wrong for Ashley and her handsome American, Eddie McQueen, she’s forced to lean on her new friends for support. Thankfully, the residents of Berecombe learned decades ago that there’s no problem that can’t be fixed with a little bit of bunting and a whole lot of love.

In my opinion: ★★★★★

All my favourite ingredients - gorgeous village setting, community spirit, multi-generational cast, feel-good storyline and sweet romance - wrapped up in one book (or novella). Fairly predictable but I don't think that matters with this genre and the world war two stories and celebrations added an extra nice and different touch to an already charming storyline. A great final installment to an enjoyable series.

The Game by Scott Kershaw (12 May 2022)

To save their life, you have to play. Across the globe, five strangers receive a horrifying message from an unknown number. THE PERSON YOU LOVE MOST IS IN DANGER. To save them, each must play The Game - a sinister unknown entity that has a single rule: there can only be one winner. IF YOU LOSE, YOUR LOVED ONE WILL DIE. But what is The Game - and why have they been chosen? There's only one thing each of them knows for sure: they'll do anything to win... WELCOME TO THE GAME. YOU'VE JUST STARTED PLAYING

In my opinion: ★★★★

I really enjoyed this - it was totally original and very cinematic. It was also an easy read with short chapters alternating between the five players - a very pretty blonde, a Frenchman, a chubby suburban housewife, a well groomed man in thick designer spectacles and an aging British lady. Unsurprisingly all of the players turn out to be connected, although player four's connection was understated or under-explained as it felt a bit tenuous compared to the others. I loved the game of chicken and would've liked more levels like that with the players competing rather than working together. There were just a couple of things that stopped this being a 5 star read - the climax turned into a bit of a blood bath and I didn't get the actual ending. 

One of the Girls by Lucy Clarke (26 May 2022)

ONE IS A LIAR.

ONE IS A STRANGER.

ONE IS A CHEATER.

WHO IS A KILLER?

The six of us arrived on that beautiful Greek island dreaming of sun-drenched beaches and blood orange sunsets, ready to lose ourselves in the wild freedom of a weekend away with friends. By the final night there was a body on the rocks below...

In my opinion: ★★★★

A game of two halves. I really liked the ending which was a total surprise and revelation after revelation. The start plants a seed which I then ran with unquestioningly so the climax was even more unexpected. But, with all the revelations coming at the end, the main is more of a slow burn or gradual ratcheting up of tension. It's also pretty bitchy as may be expected from a group of five girls not all friends but thrown together on a hen. Overall a good easy read especially with the short chapters and switching POVs.

The Italian Job by Kathryn Freeman (6 May 2022)

When Anna Roberts’ life implodes, an online search leads her to an ad for the ultimate dream job – management of a gorgeous castle on the shores of Lake Como. The only catch? The castle owners will only accept a couple as caretaker. Enter her neighbour, Jake Tucker. Though Anna and Jake have never seen eye-to-eye, Jake’s had a rough few years and an escape to Italy sounds ideal. Yet, when they get the job and jet off, Anna and Jake face an unexpected challenge. Pretending to be a couple is difficult … but pretending the tension simmering between them doesn’t exist is quickly proving impossible!

In my opinion: ★★★★

This was a super cute, fun read with a winning faux romance / love hate storyline. Disappointingly though that was all it was. With Jake and Anna looking after an Italian castle and its guests I thought that might have provided opportunity for humour or other storylines but sadly not. This was all sex (albeit super cute PG sex) and no substance. It also meant it was slightly repetitive with the continuous descriptions of each other's bodies starting to grate on me in particular. I really did like the characters though and the main storyline was good enough that it was still an enjoyable read.

Little Nothings by Julie Mayhew (12 May 2022)

With friends like these, who needs enemies? Liv Travers never knew real friendship until she met fellow mums Beth and Binnie. The three women become inseparable as they muddle through early parenthood together. Then along comes Ange… Ambitious, wealthy and somehow able to do it all. When the four families take a three-week trip to a luxurious holiday resort, Liv seizes the opportunity to reclaim her place at the heart of the group, only to discover the true, devastating cost of a friendship with Ange.

In my opinion: ★★★★

I was drawn to this by the comparisons to Lianne Moriarty and Louise Candlish but I wouldn't really describe it as a thriller. There weren't any major twists, turns, or reveals; it was more of a drama focusing on the toxic and competitive dynamic between four 'best' friends. It was weirdly compelling though in a bit of a car crash kind of way where you can't help be drawn in - to the characters even though they really are very unlikeable. It did all get a bit ridiculous towards the end though and I really didn't get the ending.

Best of April 2022

Here comes April and with it the release of books by three authors that I've only recently discovered authors - Alexandra Potter, Sally Hepworth and Mhairi McFarlane. Time to see how their latest releases stack up against their much-loved previous reads.

One Good Thing by Alexandra Potter (28 April 2022)

Liv Brooks is still in shock. Newly-divorced and facing an uncertain future, she impulsively swaps her London Life for the sweeping hills of the Yorkshire Dales, determined to make a fresh start. But fresh starts are harder than they look and feeling lost and lonely she decides to adopt Harry, an old dog from the local shelter, to keep her company. But Liv soon discovers she isn’t the only one in need of a new beginning. On their daily walks around the village, they meet Valentine, an old man who suffers from loneliness who sits by the window and Stanley, a little boy who is scared of everyone, hides behind the garden gate and Maya, a teenager who is angry at everyone and everything. But slowly things start to change…

In my opinion: ★★★★

I liked this - my second read by Alexandra Potter - a lot. Once again I loved the multi-generational unexpected friendships between the great cast of characters, especially the slowly developing friendship between forty-something Liv and eighty-odd reclusive Valentine was especially touching but also Liv and the much younger Maya or even Liv and toyboy Ajay. Likewise the life lessons and advice such as "ageing is a privilege", "courage is doing something despite being afraid" or to "play every day" as taught and practised by rescue dog Harry. And, the relatable humour such as Liv's realisation that her last yoga class cost forty quid in terms of her gym membership usage. My only criticism is that whilst it was funny it wasn't hilariously funny or as good as 'Confessions of a Forty-Something F**k-Up' but seeing as that's one of my all-time favourite books it would be almost impossible for it to have been.

As seems to be the norm with this author's books this touched on a lot of deep themes including mental health, addiction, rape, psychological abuse and domestic violence. But I enjoyed the read and was captivated by the three female characters, all of whom are damaged and struggling with different addictions as a result. With chapters alternating between the three you get a sense of who each is women is and three different perspectives to pick through. I didn't really get the ending though - maybe that was the point casting doubt on the reliability of the narrators or maybe I missed the point altogether. I'm not too sure but either way I didn't get it. I also found the present wedding day bits jarring as they just appeared mid chapter.

Who's Lying Now by Susan Lewis (14 April 2022)

Jeannie Symonds is a force to be reckoned with – an eccentric, award-winning publisher, spending lockdown with her husband in a house near Kesterly-on-Sea. She seems to have it all: a high-flying career, a happy marriage, a niece she adores. And then one day, she vanishes.

Cara Jakes is a new trainee investigator – young, intelligent and eager to prove herself. She is determined to find out what has really happened to Jeannie. Cara begins to question the residents of this close-knit community, sure that someone has a secret to hide. But how can she separate the truth from the lies?

In my opinion: ★★★★

I love the way Susan Lewis mixes interesting police investigations seamlessly with strong character stories - and this was no exception. It was a bit of an awkward start, however, with the two strands, multiple POVs and ad hoc timelines. But once the story caught up to the present-day then things got really interesting and I was totally captivated with absolutely no idea 'who's lying' and how it all connected. Although everything I did know was then cast into doubt by the epilogue and I'm still 100% sure if the accused did in fact do it.

Mad About You by Mhairi McFarlane (14 April 2022)

Two strangers. One big coincidence. Driving each other crazy is just the beginning…

Harriet Hatley is running away from everything. Getting married. Her boyfriend’s family. Her past. A dream house-share seems like the perfect place to hide, but her unlikely housemate Cal is no stranger to running away himself. And he's also hiding secrets of his own . . .Can these two take a crazy risk, face the past and finally find a reason to stay?

In my opinion: ★★★★

I loved 'Last Night' for the fabulous writing, dry humour and great characters. But this one felt more serious in tone and definitely not as witty. I also found main character, Harriet, kind of annoying and self-indulgent agreeing with her former best mate Roxy that she brings a lot of the drama on herself and "has a way of making herself the victim, even when she's at fault". At one point Harriet herself even acknowledges that ex-boyfriend "Jon had legitimate complaints" yet still feels he should take responsibility for his actions, also despite his moving on supposedly 'making no difference to her'. Disappointing although I did obviously have extremely high expectations going into this having loved the author's previous book so much.

The Younger Wife by Sally Hepworth (7 April 2022)

Tully and Rachel Aston are murderous when they discover their father has a new girlfriend. The fact that Heather is half his age isn't even the most shocking part. Stephen is still married to their mother, who is in a care facility with end-stage Alzheimer's disease. Heather knows she has an uphill battle to win over Tully and Rachel, all the while carrying the burden of the secrets of her past. But, as it turns out, they are all hiding something. A garage full of stolen goods. An old hot-water bottle stuffed with cash. A blood-soaked wedding. And that's only the beginning . . .

In my opinion: ★★★★

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?'.