Guest Review: Irresponsible Adult by Lucy Dillon

Sisters Cleo and Robyn may be close in age but their attitudes to life could not be further apart. While Cleo's a fully-fledged adult with a family, a business and a signature scent, Robyn is still waiting for the instruction manual to Adult Life and success is keeping her houseplant alive. Skating by at her job as an estate agent, she's adept at avoiding housework, ignoring admin, and evading her mother's anxious questions about her love life. But then Robyn's fired in the most publicly humiliating way imaginable - and her chaos catches up with her.

Although Cleo steps in to give Robyn a temporary job in her cleaning firm, it comes with very firm instructions: Robyn must BEHAVE RESPONSIBLY. And that includes meeting the high standards of Jim, her enigmatic supervisor. But when Robyn learns to navigate the catastrophic kitchens and judgemental dogs of total strangers she learns some unexpected truths about her own messy world. No one's life is spotless...

Review: I always know that I can look forward to a great read when I pick up a book by Lucy Dillon. This one certainly has an intriguing title and I was looking forward to seeing where it was going to take me. I was amused by the cover, but its message soon became clear once I met the lady depicted there. As I began to read, I was quickly absorbed into the lives of the main characters and was left wondering what their futures held long after I had finished the book.

The story introduces sisters Robyn and Cleo. Although from the same family, they couldn’t be more different from each other. Cleo is married with two children and a successful cleaning business. Estate agent Robyn, on the other hand, is messy and disorganised in her private and professional life and is constantly dodging her mother’s questions about her love life. When she is sacked in the most public and humiliating way, Robyn reluctantly accepts Cleo’s offer of a temporary cleaning job while she searches for something more suitable. Cleo wisely teams Robyn up with her best employee, Jim, who sets exacting standards for his new partner. As Robyn gradually learns the secrets for cleaning and tidying other people’s property, she thinks about how they apply to her life. She also unearths some unexpected things among the clutter in her home and some family secrets begin to be revealed.

I absolutely loved this book, with its strong characters, very amusing situations and messages for us all. Robyn was having a wonderful time to start with, floating along until suddenly life caught up with her and she had to grow up. It was funny watching her as she realised the meaning of organisation and responsibility as she had to do her job to a timetable and meet expectations. She learned some valuable lessons about herself and I found myself feeling happy that this knowledge was going to help her be OK in the future. Even though the sisters were so very different, there was a strong family vibe in the book and there was a lot going on within the family outwith Robyn’s development, adding other interesting threads to the story. A feature of the book that I really enjoyed was that each chapter begins with a cleaning tip, many of which I hadn’t heard before; I may just be referring back to some of these. This is definitely a book that I can recommend.

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Guest Review: Come Rain or Shine by Sarah Bennett

Juniper Meadows is home to much of his extended family, not to mention the many local businesses that operate on the estate, so there’s no time to sit back and enjoy the view. Juniper Meadows is a full-time job, and that doesn’t leave much time for romance…

Tasha Blake’s career leaves no time for romance either – much to her mother’s chagrin. Tasha’s sister Danni has kindly provided two grandchildren, but Victoria Blake is keen for more! When her job takes her to Juniper Meadows for an extended project, the slower pace of life, the beauty of the countryside and the warmth of the Travers family, soon has Tasha in its thrall, and the future Lord of the Manor Rhys Travers is rather easy on the eye too.

As the busyness of life on the estate sweeps Tasha and Rhys along, they are both able to ignore the secrets and silences that are growing between them. But when the future of Juniper Meadows hangs in the balance, loyalties and love are tested to breaking point. When the chips are down, can Rhys and Tasha see a future together, come rain or shine…

Review: This is the third book in the Juniper Meadows series from this author. Stories in this series are set on the Juniper Meadows estate in the Cotswolds. The exclusive hotel, once the ancestral seat of the Travers family, the farm and camp site are run by two generations of the current family, who now reside in the large farmhouse or elsewhere on the estate. Each book has focused on a particular member of the large, extended family, although all of them feature to a greater or lesser extent. Although the books in this series can be read in isolation, I would recommend reading them in order to build up a complete picture of this interesting family.

This story centres on Rhys Travers, heir apparent to the family title, and a newcomer to the estate, Tasha Blake. Tasha has been sent by her boss to work undercover as the estate’s camp site manager and report back to him on activities within the family business as a whole. However, she is surprised to find herself welcomed into the family as more than an employee, and realises that she is forming a relationship with Rhys. She also discovers that she enjoys the job and the slower pace of life in the country. Being suspicious of her boss’s motives, Tasha is unwilling to report to him, but the problem remains of how to explain to Rhys and his family that she has been deceiving them. It looks as though she is in a no-win situation and may lose both her new job and man she has come to love.

I am really enjoying this series from Sarah Bennett; her books are always full of warmth and romance coupled with interesting characters and real-life situations. In this story, it was good to see the character of Rhys brought to the fore. He has struggled with the knowledge that he will one day inherit the estate, with the attendant responsibilities, and employing someone to take some pressure off him was a great idea. I wasn’t sure that I liked Tasha to begin with but she grew on me as the story progressed. She had her own problems of course, her mother with her strange ideas being one of them. I’m already looking forward to the next book in this series and wondering who will take centre stage.

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Guest Review: Island in the Sun by Katie Fforde

Dominica. A beautiful remote island where the sun shines and the living is easy.

And where Cass goes to photograph a rare stone carving as a favour to her father.

With her is Ranulph, a deeply attractive, much-travelled journalist, who offers to help Cass with her quest.

But Dominica has just been hit be a severe hurricane, and Cass and Ranulph are spending all of their time helping the local community.

Cass knows she must not fall in love with him… He is just looking out for her. He’s being kind.

There is no way he could be even the slightest bit interested in her. Could he?

Review: I have read, and loved, a number of Katie Fforde’s books and when I saw that her latest one had just been published, I automatically purchased a copy. The cover promised a trip to an exotic island location and romance for the woman pictured on a gorgeous beach. I quickly learned that this book in fact features two islands - a remote rocky one off the coast of Scotland and the Caribbean island of Dominica, which is the main location in the story. The latter is in an area with which I am not familiar, and I looked forward to my visit.

This story centres on Cass, who is at a crossroads in her life and unsure which direction to take, her decision influenced in part by her parents’ wishes and expectations. When her famous photographer father asks her if she will travel to Dominica to take a picture of a petroglyph, she jumps at the chance. It is hoped that a photograph of the petroglyph will help win a competition, the prize money from which can be put to good use on the island. She is to be accompanied on the journey by her father’s friend, Ranulph. Unfortunately, Dominica has just been hit by a hurricane, and things are rather chaotic when the pair arrive. Their time is spent being useful in any way they can in the clear-up operation. Attempts to find and record the petroglyph are hindered by conditions on the island, but also by a rival keen to win the competition himself. During the process, Cass reveals an artistic talent that she has kept hidden thinking her parents would not encourage her to follow this path. She also becomes increasingly infatuated with Ranulph, but is unsure how this older man feels about her.

Although I enjoyed this tale, I can’t say that this would be my favourite book from this author. It was not her usual cosy romance. I found it interesting to learn a bit about Dominica and the effects a hurricane could have on a community like this. I was conflicted by Cass; on one hand she seemed really immature, but then she stepped up and did some really brave things when she was needed. Ranulph was a likeable character, but he didn’t treat Cass very well at times. My favourite characters were the locals the pair met during their time on the island. While I think that fans of Katie Fforde will enjoy this story, I wouldn’t recommend it as typical of her work to those new to her books.

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Guest Review: Love in Provence by Jo Thomas

Escape to the beautiful lavender fields of Provence this summer

Del moved to the south of France three years ago and hasn’t looked back. She’s found new friends, new purpose, and new love with gorgeous Fabien.

But just as harvest on her little lavender farm is due to begin, Del gets some shocking news. With no time to dwell as she welcomes a new crew of lavender pickers, she unexpectedly waves goodbye to Fabien for the summer.

Usually cooking – the thing she loves best – would help soothe her troubles, but Del doesn’t remember how . . . And then chef Zacharie comes to town, dropping another bombshell!

Over one summer in Provence that’s full of surprises, friends old and new rally round. Can they complete the harvest and pull the community back together? And if Fabien returns, will Del finally get her happy-ever-after?

Review: This is a sequel to an earlier book by Jo Thomas, entitled Escape to the French Farmhouse. I always look forward to Jo Thomas’s books, sure of a compelling story, and this title definitely did not disappoint. As usual, she transports her readers to a beautiful location, this time a charming village in Provence. The stunning, bright cover of the book beautifully illustrates what to expect from the story within; you can almost smell the lavender. I enjoyed meeting up with many familiar faces and finding out what had transpired in the period between the two stories, but you would not have needed to read the previous book to enjoy this one. 

The story once again centres on Del, who moved three years ago from England to Provence, where she now lives with partner Fabien (previously spelt Fabian) in a large farmhouse surrounded by lavender fields. She has made many friends in the village where she lives and, with support from a local chef, has developed a love of cooking, incorporating the local herbs and lavender into her dishes. As the lavender harvest is almost upon her, the Mistral sweeps through the village, bringing with it great changes in Del’s life, mostly unwelcome ones. It seems there is one blow after another, and she must face most of them without Fabien by her side. Luckily, she finds support from some unexpected sources as well as her old friends. There are so many worries over and above whether the harvest can be completed, and, most of all, will Fabien come home?

I highly recommend this latest book from Jo Thomas. Whether or not you have read her previous story about Del and her new life in Provence, this charming and romantic tale is bound to prove an enjoyable read. I loved so many of the characters in this book. Del herself certainly had a hard time of it and I felt for her facing so many problems as they stacked up. However, the sense of community in the village came across once more. The surprise for Del and the reader was the way in which the itinerant lavender pickers came to the fore and pitched in. They were a really interesting group, and often a source of humour. As I usually find with Jo’s marvellous writing, I really felt that I was there in the village with Del every time I sat down to read. Of course, there was also all that lovely food that was being produced and described all through the book, making even me want to go into the kitchen and cook.

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Guest Review: Under a Summer Skye by Sue Moorcroft

A chance encounter is about to change everything for Thea Wynter.

The moment she arrived on the Isle of Skye, life changed for Thea. Running from a succession of wrong turns, she comes to the island in search of blue sea, endless skies, and mountains that make the heart soar. Here, she feels at peace.

As head gardener at Rothach Hall, life is exactly how she wants it, with her days spent working in the glorious clifftop garden and her evenings in the cosy local village.

But an encounter with a stranger from the mainland brings with it an unexpected turn – and only time will tell if he is friend or foe.

It seems that even on Skye, life can catch up with you, and Thea is soon faced with the past she left behind – and with it, the family she’s never met…

Review: This book is the first title in the Skye Sisters Trilogy from this author. I have read and enjoyed many of Sue Moorcroft’s books; they always transport the reader to an interesting new location. As the title suggests, the books in this trilogy will be set principally on the picturesque island of Skye, off the west coast of Scotland.

The central character in this story is Thea Wynter, one of three sisters adopted from different families by a couple who died tragically young. Thea and her middle sister Ezzie live in Skye, where they work at Rothach Hall as head gardener and assistant manager, respectively. The eldest of the sisters, Valentina, lives in Edinburgh. Thea and Ezzie have good reason for having made the move from Suffolk to their more remote location, which is explained as the story progresses. Thea is content with her peaceful existence on Skye, but is not unhappy with the sudden changes caused by the introduction into her life of Deveron, who accepts a job as seasonal gardener at the hall, and Daisy a cute stray dog who she fosters. Thea hits it off with Deveron immediately, but doesn’t suspect that he may have an ulterior motive for befriending her. As if this is not enough upheaval, it looks as if Thea’s past may be catching up with her at the same time as she is suddenly confronted with news about her birth mother, who she previously knew nothing about.

I found myself quite captivated by this book, with its complex characters and glorious setting, and do not hesitate to recommend it; it would make a lovely summer holiday read. There was a lot going on in Thea’s once simple life all of a sudden and she was fortunate to have copious amounts of support from the community around her. It was a scary prospect when it seemed certain that a secret she had kept hidden might be about to escape. The tension built up by the author was palpable. I liked most of the characters in the story, but a couple of them were most unpleasant. Cuddly Daisy the dog sounded an extremely lively companion. Of course, Thea and her sister were fortunate to be living in such a lovely spot with the sea almost on their doorstep. I’m certain that many readers will be considering making the journey to Skye themselves by the time they finish the book. I look forward to reading the next book in this trilogy.

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Guest Review: The Wedding of the Year by Jill Mansell

Love, friendship and secrets revealed as the sun beats down on dazzling blue Cornish seas . . .

It's set to be a perfect day - until the chauffeur is asked to keep driving the bride around the church. This wedding definitely isn't going as planned.

Lottie is a guest at the wedding when she sees Max. No kiss has ever matched the last one they shared fifteen years ago. They were on the brink of a beautiful love story, until a shocking event tore them apart. Now here he is, still ridiculously good-looking, teasing Lottie in the old way - and that overwhelming electric attraction is back. But Max is way out of bounds.

Freya owes Cameron everything. But she doesn't love him. Which is a shame, because they're about to be married.

Ruby has been the perfect wife. When she discovers the truth about her husband, her response is reckless and delicious. But after that, nothing will ever be the same again.

Review: I always look forward with great anticipation to the annual offering from Jill Mansell, expecting a thoroughly entertaining read. Her novels are always full of well-developed characters and dramatic storylines. This book is set in Cornwall. I was not sure what to expect from the title, but its dramatic opening had me hooked from the start.

The story begins in the church in the village of Lanrock, where Freya is about to walk down the aisle towards her groom, Cameron. However, the wedding is suddenly halted by Ruby, the vicar’s wife, who has just made a shocking discovery. Her actions are just the beginning of a chain of events that will impact on more than one marriage. In the congregation are old acquaintances Lottie and Max. They have quite a history, a budding romance in their teens having been abruptly brought to a halt by events outwith their control. However, it seems that although there is still a spark there, there are still major obstacles in the path of their relationship nevertheless. Meanwhile, it appears that the interruption to Freya’s wedding may have been fortuitous for her, as she is unsure if she really loves Cameron, and she may now have time to find a way to wriggle out of their relationship.

This was a delightfully entertaining book with multiple storylines involving the various characters from the village of Lanrock and beyond. They included several particularly strong women. I loved the drama of the opening pages of the book, with one shock after another. Ruby proved a much stronger person than villagers realised; she was not taking any nonsense from anyone. I was also struck by Freya’s actions in dealing with her situation. She had an idea of how to act and stuck to it. Lottie and Max’s story was reminiscent of Romeo and Juliet’s situation, but fortunately they found a different solution from the star-crossed lovers. I loved their story most of all. I can highly recommend this enjoyable book, full of drama and romance, and certainly never a dull moment.

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Guest Review: Chasing a Highland Dream by Lisa Hobman

Since having to drop out of her design degree, Bella Douglas has been unlucky in just about everything life has thrown at her.

She’s lost more jobs than she cares to remember and despite her Granny Isla’s best attempts to set her up with every eligible bachelor in the Scottish Highlands and she’s still single.

Currently PA to her best friend, aka, Lady Olivia MacBain, at the 17th century Drumblair Castle, Bella is yet to find a role that sets her soul on fire. But when disaster strikes for Olivia, Bella steps into the breach to rescue her best friend from a fate worse than a bad interior designer.

When Bella and her Granny Isla find themselves homeless, they relocate to the castle where a handsome new neighbour brings mystery, intrigue and a spark of romance.

Is Bella finally on the track to find true happiness? Or do more catastrophes lie ahead? And does true love hide where you least expect it?

Review: This is the second book in The Highlands series from this author, following on from Coming Home to the Highlands. I very much enjoyed the first book in the series, and was looking forward to finding out what would happen to the characters in this sequel. I listened to the audio version, which was beautifully read by one of my favourite narrators, Eilidh Beaton. Although the book is part of a series, and I loved rekindling my acquaintance with many of the characters, it can equally be read as a standalone if you missed the last book.

This time, the story centres on aspiring interior designer Bella Douglas, best friend and personal assistant to Lady Olivia McBain at Drumblair Castle.  Bella lives in a cosy cottage with her elderly grandmother, Isla, a lovely lady always on the lookout for a husband for her granddaughter. Although Bella had to drop out of her design degree, she still has an interest in that field. She is delighted therefore when she has the opportunity to put her skills to good use in designing some properties at the castle. After a flood in Isla’s cottage leaves Isla and Bella homeless, they move temporarily into the castle where Bella meets neighbour Aiden, and a relationship develops between the two. However, all is not quite right with this handsome man, and it seems that Isla suspicions about him may have been spot on. Is it possible that the Mr Right might have been right in front of Bella all along?

It was great to return to Drumblair Castle and meet up with the people there in this romantic story, which is packed with interesting characters and the lovely scenery of the Scottish highlands. Bella is such a kind and cheerful young lady, happy to give up her studies to look after her grandmother. Isla is also a wonderful character, with a host of malapropisms that had me laughing throughout. The new neighbour they encountered was distinctly dodgy and had alarm bells ringing in my head from the word go. Just as well that Isla had picked out another more reliable companion for her granddaughter. I can happily recommend this highland romance and indeed all of Lisa Hobman’s books that I have read so far.

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Guest Review: The Library on Love Heart Lane by Christie Barlow

Growing up in foster care, Elle Cooper always felt a piece of herself was missing. Now, as her thirtieth birthday approaches, she’s ready to find it. But when instigating the search for her birth mother leads to a whole host of unexpected events, this librarian’s quiet life suddenly gets very loud!

With new friends, old flames and surprising influences keeping Elle busy, she soon starts to see that there’s more to life than where you came from – and that where you are right now, and who you have in your corner, is what might just matter most of all…

Review: This is the 13th book in the Love Heart Lane series from this author. It was published previously as Evie’s Year of Taking Chances, and has been adapted to fit into the present series. The stories in this series feature inhabitants of the small highland village of Heartcross and the nearby town of Glensheil, each one introducing one or more new character as well as reuniting the reader with well-loved faces from previous books. All the books, including this one, can be read as a standalone story. As usual, this book contains a helpful map showing locations within Love Heart Lane that feature in the stories.

The central character in this book is librarian Elle Cooper. She loves her job in the Love Heart Lane library, where she works alongside friend Pippa, and new member of staff Aiden. Elle has had a troubled past, having been moved as a child from one foster family to another until she was finally placed in her teens with Irene, who has been like a mother to her ever since. Now, with her 30th birthday round the corner, Elle wants to try and find her birth mother, and perhaps even her father. However, Elle’s search results in a series of shocks for her that just keep on coming, and her quiet existence is suddenly transformed in more ways than one.

I have enjoyed all of the books in this series so far, but, for me, this is probably the most emotional read so far. Elle was a lovely person, and as her story emerged with each page, her amazing, strong personality was revealed. The story of her early years was quite heartbreaking to read. As you might expect from a librarian, Elle had a great love of books and a favourite author who she longed to meet, but she was unsure if she had it in her to write a book of her own. The story underlined the importance in all our lives of true friends. Elle was lucky in having so many people who cared for her, including a caring and supportive foster mother. I loved her best friend Pippa, different in so many ways from Elle, but always there ready to help out and add some humour to any situation. As with previous books in the series, the wonderful community spirit present in Love Heart Lane shone out and in addition the storyline contained a satisfying dose of romance for more than just Elle.

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Guest Review: A Breath of Fresh Air by Jessica Redland

Rosie feels like there's something missing in her life.

She loves her job as the manager of Willowdale Hall Riding Stables, caring for the horses and teaching children to ride, and she loves the home she shares with her mother in the beautiful Lake District. But she can't help wondering how her life might look if things had been different. What if her father had been around to help care for her mother? And what if she'd found someone special herself?

When Hubert Cranleigh - the owner of Willowdale Hall - is taken ill, his son Oliver steps into the breach. Brooding and distant, Rosie is furious when he claims not to know who she is. Especially when they have a history.

Rosie's life is about to be turned upside down, but with the New Year comes new opportunities. What Rosie feels is missing from her life might be closer than she thinks, and with more significant consequences than she could ever have imagined...

Review: This is the second book in the Escape to the Lakes series from Jessica Redland. The storyline is set once again in the fictional village of Willowdale on the shores of Derwent Water, one of the larger bodies of water in the picturesque Lake District. It was good to revisit the village where the first book in the series was set and to meet up with some familiar characters. Although this story can be read as a standalone, I would recommend reading the first book in the series before this one to give complete enjoyment. The book has a beautiful cover recognisable as a typical Lake District scene.

The story this time brings to the fore Rosie, a character who featured in the last book  She lives and works on the Willowdale Hall estate, where she looks after the horses and runs the riding school. She has lived all her life with her mother in a cottage on the estate, but has never known the identity of her father. When Hubert Cranleigh, who lives in the hall, has a riding accident near to Christmas, his son, Oliver, returns home. Rosie and Oliver grew up together and had a relationship in the past, but he now pretends not to know her and keeps his distance. When his father dies and the future of the hall and its riding school is in doubt, many surprises come to light for both Rosie and Oliver. 

I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it, especially to lovers of the Lake District. I must mention, though, that the book ends on a cliffhanger, which I was not expecting; I will be keenly waiting for the next book in the series to solve the mystery and hope it won’t be too long a wait. I loved the characters in this story, with the exception of Hubert Cranleigh, a very unlikeable character. Oliver was a bit of a contradiction - quite unlikeable to start with but the opposite by the end. I was quite prepared to dislike him but then he began to show another side to his character. Rosie and her mum were just as lovely as in the last book; I loved their relationship, and the way in which Rosie looked after her mum in particular. I liked the way in which Rosie and Oliver’s history was revealed in a series of flashbacks dotted throughout the book; I think that worked well to explain their current relationship. I am very much looking forward to the next story in this series, not only because of the cliffhanger but also because I am enjoying following the events in this village and the lives of the characters who live there. 

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Guest Review: A New York Winter by Isla Gordon

Will her dreams come true in the city that never sleeps?

When she was nineteen, on a magical trip to New York City, Ashling created a list of her five life goals. There, she'd felt inspired to dream big, but now, ten years later, with four out of five goals having crumbled before her, she realises she has only one option left to live the life she's always dreamed of: move to New York City, before it's too late.

Armed with a ninety-day visa, she's sure that a winter in the city that never sleeps will help her finally get her life on track. However, after arriving in the Big Apple with nowhere to live, Ashling realises that she may be in over her head, until she meets River . . .

River is miserable. He's newly single, recently demoted and feeling entirely lost, but sensing Ashling could do with the help, he offers her his sofa bed. Despite their clashing personalities, over the course of the winter, outgoing Ashling finds herself growing closer to quiet, geeky River - but is he just shy or is there another reason he's holding back?

With snow falling on 5th Avenue, a Thanksgiving parade and a fun-filled Christmas in the most romantic city in the world, can Ashling once again learn to follow her dreams - and maybe even her heart?

Review: I have read and enjoyed many Christmas stories from Isla Gordon and looked forward to experiencing a New York Christmas and a romance to boot in this book. The book itself has a lovely, colourful cover that beckons the reader in to experience views of New York and Christmas festivities. The story certainly pulled me in from the start and I found myself quickly lost in the Big Apple. 

The story centres on Ashling, who is feeling down because she has now failed completely to accomplish four of the five lifetime goals she set for herself ten years previously. She decided on these goals while on a magical trip from London to New York with her now deceased grandmother, who had had a wonderful time in New York herself in her younger years. With her once successful career in tatters, the one remaining goal on Ashling’s list is to live in New York city, where she is confident that she will be inspired to realise where her life should lead now. She arrives in the city on a ninety-day visa waiver, but finding somewhere to live for that time proves difficult until an ex-boyfriend tells her of a colleague who is out of town and may let her stay in his apartment. The colleague, River, returns from his trip, but reluctantly allows Ashling to sleep on his sofa bed. Having very different personalities, their relationship is difficult to start with, but as time passes, Ashling begins to succeed in getting River to open up to her. As they become closer, Ashling begins to wonder whether they will truly admit their feelings towards each other before she has to return to the UK.

I absolutely loved this wonderful book that takes the reader on a Christmas break in New York city without leaving home. It covers everything that a visiting tourist would want to experience on such a break if they possibly could. The writing absolutely transported me to the Thanksgiving parade, the snow covered streets, the wonderful shop window displays, the ice skating rinks and the excitement of the ball drop in Times Square. Ashling was a really interesting character. Her world could be falling apart around her, but she just won’t let it go. How brave to set off on her own confident that everything will work out for her. She could hardly be more different from shy, reserved River. It was heart-warming to watch as a romance slowly developed between them, although time was running out and I began to despair of a happy ending. This is a lovely Christmas book, perfect for reading in the warm on a crisp winter’s day. 

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Guest Review: Winter at the Dog and Duck by Jill Steeples

Ellie Browne has left behind her high-flying job in London to return to the charming Buckinghamshire village of Little Leyton.

Working shifts at the Dog and Duck pub and running her own doggy-daycare business, Ellie's looking for a simpler way of life in this idyllic English setting.

But Little Leyton's landscape is changing: Johnny Tay, Ellie's ex, wants to pick up where they left off; sultry property developer Max Golding has moved into the village and is ruffling feathers; and rumour has it that the pub, which holds a special place in Ellie's heart, might be sold. Suddenly, life's looking a whole lot more complicated.... Can Ellie overcome all the challenges to finally find her one true love?

Review: This is the first book in a series from Jill Steeples featuring the Dog and Duck, the thriving pub in a small English village. I am new to this author, but was attracted to what sounds like a romantic holiday read.

The story centres on Ellie Browne, who has returned to the Buckinghamshire village of Little Leyton after living and working in London for a few years. Taking a break from her successful career in accountancy, she is currently working at the local pub, the Dog and Duck, and also building up her dog-walking business. With her parents spending a few months abroad, Ellie is living alone in the family cottage. Her ex-boyfriend, Johnny, seems keen to rekindle their relationship, but she is not sure this is a good idea. Meanwhile, she has met newcomer to the village property developer Max Golding, and there is a definite attraction between the two of them. When there is a rumour of doubts over the future of the Dog and Duck, Ellie is concerned not just for her job but for the community as a whole. With life becoming more complicated and suspicions that Max might not be totally honest with her, Ellie begins to consider where her future lies.

I have very much enjoyed this book and would recommend it to those who enjoy a romance with a festive theme; it is not strictly speaking a Christmas story, but it has a festive feel, especially towards the end. I loved the central players in the story; both Ellie and Max were strong characters, not afraid to reveal their feelings. The author cleverly introduces doubts into the reader’s and Ellie’s mind regarding the motives and character of Max in particular, and I was never very sure how things were going to turn out. The village of Little Leyton sounds very pretty and it was easy to picture it with the pub very much central to activities. There are three more stories in this series for readers wanting to follow the fortunes of Ellie and indeed the pub.

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Guest Review: Four Weddings and a Christmas by Phillipa Ashley

Can the spirit of Christmas reignite an old flame?

With her thriving business Cottage Angels, Freya Bolton prepares the Lake District’s holiday homes for Christmas visitors. It’s her job to think of everything, from cinnamon-scented candles to tasteful decorations and hampers of seasonal treats.

If only her love life were such a success… After being burned by past relationships, she’s now determined to steer clear of love for good.

So when she bumps into gorgeous – and single – ex-boyfriend Travis, a no-strings festive fling seems perfect.

But when her feelings for him begin to develop, is she on track for another romantic calamity? Or could this Christmas give her the gift of true love?

Review: Phillipa Ashley is one of my ‘go-to’ authors. For me, she always brings to life the characters and places in her books. I have enjoyed many a trip to Cornwall through her writing. This year, Phillipa’s Christmas book is a romance set once again in the Lake District, acknowledged as one of the prettiest areas of the UK, and one with which I am very familiar. The book has a wonderfully Christmassy cover, promising lots of snow and fun.

The story features Freya Bolton, born and bred in the Lake District and owner of a company that prepares holiday homes in the area for visitors. With her attention to detail and excellent customer service, she has built up a successful business. As she is busy putting the finishing touches to one cottage, ready for Christmas, she is startled to find that the incoming tenant is someone she knows well - her former fiancé and now renowned photographer, Travis Marshall, who has come back home to open a business of his own. As the days pass, it appears that there is still a strong attraction between them, and Freya suggests a secret relationship with no commitments. However, things are not that simple, as feelings develop in both of them and it seems this may be more than just a fling.

I really enjoyed this trip to the Lake District. The book was full of interesting characters and well-described settings. Freya and Travis were both likeable people for whom the reader is bound to want a happy ending, although, of course, there were many bumps in the road along the way. I admired their dedication to their businesses, but there was no denying the attraction between them. In addition to the central story, there were other interesting subplots involving Freya and Travis’s families and friends, including a few weddings, as the title suggests, and lots of Christmas-themed events. This is a lovely, light and heart-warming festive book, particularly perfect for reading by the fire on a cold wintry day.

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Guest Review: Honeymoon for One by Portia Macintosh

When disaster strikes, paradise calls...

As a published novelist, Lila Rose has been writing about fictional weddings all her life. But disaster strikes on her own big day when she hears her philandering fiancé, Daniel whispering sweet nothings to someone else.

With her dream day shattered, all Lila wants to do is run and hide, so she decides to fly solo on her own honeymoon.

When Daniel arrives in the resort with his new squeeze, Lila strikes up a ‘showmance’ with hot new movie star, Freddie Bianchi. Freddie is perfect for the part and Lila soon relaxes into her leading lady role.

But as truth starts to merge with fiction, could real love be in the air?

Review: Portia Macintosh is well known for her romantic comedy books, but this is just the second one I have read. I will say at the outset that I found it entertaining from start to finish and absolutely hilarious a lot of the time. 

The story concerns novelist Lila, who the reader meets on her wedding day, just as she is about to get into her fabulous dress. She goes to fetch something from the garden where she unfortunately (or perhaps fortunately) witnesses her husband-to-be Daniel in a romantic embrace with one of her friends. Lila instantly flees, and, deciding that it would be a shame to waste the luxurious honeymoon she booked, sets off on her own. At first unsure if she has done the right thing, being surrounded on a beautiful island by loved-up couples, Lila strikes up a friendship with Freddie, who is also on holiday on his own. Although she doesn’t recognise him, he is a famous film star.  When Daniel turns up with his new girlfriend, Lila and Freddie pretend to be a couple to make him jealous. However, it soon becomes apparent that it may not all be pretence.

I can really recommend this book to anyone who feels like a light-hearted read. It had me laughing out loud in several places. The author skilfully transports the reader to an idyllic setting in the company of interesting and often highly amusing characters. I certainly wouldn’t mind a holiday on that island with its lavish accommodation and sumptuous food on offer. What could have been a lonely trip for poor Lila turned out to be exactly the opposite. 

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Guest Review: The Northern Lights Lodge by Julie Caplin

Escape to the cosiest little lodge in Iceland for love, log fires and the Northern Lights…

With a shattered heart and her career completely in tatters, Lucy needs to get away from her life in the UK. But, when she takes a job as hotel manager of the Northern Lights Lodge, she doesn’t quite expect to find herself in a land of bubbling hot springs and snowflake-dusted glaciers – and in the company of gorgeous Scottish barman, Alex.

Determined to turn her life around, Lucy sets about making the lodge the number one romantic destination in Iceland – even though romance is the last thing she wants. However, as Alex and Lucy grow closer under the dancing lights of the aurora, Lucy might just learn how to fall in love again…

Review: This is book 4 in the highly entertaining Romantic Escapes Series by this author. The books are all set in stunning locations around the world, many featuring food or beverage preparation within their storyline. Although they are all standalone stories, readers will often be pleased to come across characters that have played a role in an earlier book in the series. The present title, as the name and cover suggest, is set in Iceland.

The central female character is Lucy, who has lost her job as general manager of a large hotel and, at the same time, her boyfriend. Desperate to find another post, she accepts a position running the Northern Lights Lodge in Iceland on a three months’ probationary basis. She has no idea what to expect, but is a little dismayed by the state of the hotel when she arrives. However, she is determined to turn things around in the hope of making her post permanent. She finds support in the unlikely form of the Scottish barman, Alex. There are many hilarious incidents while Lucy gets to grip with the sometimes temperamental staff and local customs, but all the while she and Alex become closer, in spite of the fact that she is trying hard to remain professional. Both of them are hiding secrets, afraid of how the other will react when they inevitably come to light.

I can thoroughly recommend this book, and indeed the whole of this series. I have now read them all and am eagerly awaiting publication of the next book. As well as being romantic stories, they are also filled with humour and a fair amount of drama. In this story, Lucy is having quite a battle recovering from a difficult incident in her past, but is helped tremendously by the loveable staff at the Northern Lights Lodge, especially barman Alex. After a bumpy start, he is always on hand to back Lucy up whenever she needs it. Alex comes across as a thoroughly lovely, considerate person, but I was concerned about what would happen when his secret came to light. Throughout the story, the reader is presented with an insight into what life must be like for inhabitants of the island through the excellent descriptive writing and the voices of the hotel staff.

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Guest Review: The Cornish Cream Tea Holiday by Cressida McLaughlin

It’s going to be an unforgettable Cornish summer…

Thea Rushwood was looking forward to exploring the beautiful Cornish tourist spot of Port Karadow, but when her friend drops out at the last minute, she is forced to go solo. Arriving at her cosy holiday cottage to discover a building site next door, Thea and the annoyingly attractive, but grumpy builder, Ben, don’t get off to the best start.

Thea starts to wonder if her perfect escape wasn’t meant to be. That’s before she realizes there is more to Ben – and to the community – than she first thought. As a magical Cornish summer stretches out in front of her, Thea discovers this is one holiday that she never wants to end…

Review: This is the 6th book in the Cornish Cream Tea series from Cressida McLaughlin. I have been following this series from the start and have really enjoyed getting to know the characters and the area in which the stories are set. Although part of a series, each book can be read as a standalone. There are several recurring characters who appear throughout the series, but new characters are added to the cast with each story. 

This story introduces Thea Rushwood, who is holidaying on her own in the lovely Cornish seaside town of Port Karadow.  Her holiday cottage is just as cosy and welcoming as described, but there was no mention of the cottage next door which is being renovated, and with much noise. Her first meeting with ruggedly handsome Ben, her neighbour, is not promising, but she begins to realise that he is not as surly as he seemed on the surface and a friendship develops with him and his group of friends, most of whom readers of the series will recognise. When the real reason behind Thea’s choice of holiday destination is revealed, Ben and his friends are more than willing to help her realise her ambitions for the future. 

I can highly recommend this book, and indeed the whole Cornish Cream Tea series. I loved the story of Thea and Ben, and particularly Thea’s ambitions for herself and the town. The story is so well written that I could picture the town, hear the waves swishing back and forth and smell the gorgeous food that keeps being cooked and devoured all the way through the book. You had to admire Thea for planning for her future and carrying out those plans. The same could be said for Ben, who has moved away from an unhappy situation and has thrown himself into renovating his cottage. What a wonderful couple they would make. I am already looking forward to the next book in the series. I would love to find out how things are progressing for Thea and Ben if the next story is in the same setting.

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