Tag: ebook

Book Review On The Reader’s Of Broken Wheel Recommend by Katarina Bivald

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About the author (as seen on Goodreads)

Katarina Bivald grew up working part-time in a bookshop. Today she lives outside of Stockholm, Sweden, with her sister and as many bookshelves she can get by her. She’scurrently trying to persuade her sister that having a shelf for winter jackets and shoes is completely unneccessary. There should be enough space for a book shelf or two instead. Limited success so far. Apparantly, her sister is also stubbornly refusing to even discuss using the bath room to store books.

Katarina Bivald sometimes claims that she still hasn’t decided whether she prefer books or people but, as we all know, people are a non-starter. Even if you do like them, they’re better in books. Only possible problem: reading a great book and having noone to recommend it to.

Läsarna i Broken Wheel rekommenderar/The Readers in Broken Wheel Recommend is her first novel.

Website: http://www.katarinabivald.se/en

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7205478.Katarina_Bivald

Publication date: 1st January 2016

Publisher: Sourcebooks Landmark

ISBN: Paperback 9781492623441

Also available in Hardback, kindle, Audio CD and Audio book

Pages: 386 pages

Genre: Women’s Literary/romance fiction

Format reading: Ebook

Copy provided by: Netgalley

Blurb (as seen on Amazon)

Sara has never left Sweden but at the age of 28 she decides it’s time. She cashes in her savings, packs a suitcase full of books and sets off for Broken Wheel, Iowa, a town where she knows nobody.

Sara quickly realises that Broken Wheel is in desperate need of some adventure, a dose of self-help and perhaps a little romance, too. In short, this is a town in need of a bookshop.

With a little help from the locals, Sara sets up Broken Wheel’s first bookstore. The shop might be a little quirky but then again, so is Sara. And as Broken Wheel’s story begins to take shape, there are some surprises in store for Sara too…

My Review

I would like to thank Netgalley and the publisher for allowing me to read and review The Readers Of Broken Wheel Recommend by Katarina Bivald This book is translated from Swedish to English by Alice Menzies.

Sara recently worked in a bookshop in Sweden until it closes. Now she finds herself jobless and has no direction in her life. She has been writing and sharing books for a few years, with elderly lady Amy from Broken Wheel in Iowa. Knowing her polite Amy invites Sara over to stay, so they can finally meet. Sara’s parents thinks its a bad idea and thinks she should say put! But She decides to take the plunge out of her comfort zone. Only when she arrives Amy has passed away. The town people decide she should stay in Amy’s house and they organise day’s out to show her the town of Broken Wheel. Sara has heard so much about the people through Amy’s letters and is intrigued by them. But Sara gets a frosty reception from Tom Amy’s nephew, but the town involves him in keeping Sara company! As Sara spends time in Amy’s house she is wondering where Amy’s books are then she finds them and is in ore of the abundance of book Amy has collected.

On finding most of the shops at Broken Wheel are all shut up and there is no bookshop! Sara comes across Amy’s husband empty old shop which sparks an idea! What if she was to open the shop as a bookshop selling Amy’s books and it would be in Amy’s honour and her beloved collection of books can be enjoyed; with the money going to charity. Sara puts her idea to the town people only for them to say it wont work but they decide to let her. The town pull together to make the shop in to a bookshop, but are still sceptical. She is determined to bring books to the reluctant residence of Broken Wheel.

Being in Broken Wheel Sara becomes part of the community and the residence become friends which; makes her realise how lonely her life was back in Sweden. She has some unexpected challenges that lay ahead of her at Broken Wheel, including Tom!!! Is he more than just a friend? Can Sara change the towns views on books? Will she return home? Can she deal with all the challenges that are put in her path?

Gosh what a book! I adored every single second of it and become really attached to all the characters of Broken Wheel. I really didn’t want the book to finish which gave me a book hangover! It’s a book lovers dream, but it’s so much more than that. It’s about finding and belonging, friendships, love and the joy of a small town community. I would highly recommend this book!!!!

Marie’s Book Boutique gives

The Readers Of Broken Wheel Recommend by Katarina Bivald

5 Stars

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Book Review On: Love’s Labours by Simon Truckle

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Love's Labours by simon truckle

 

About the author (as seen on Amazon)

simon truckle

I live and am based in the UK, in a lovely seaside town called Whitstable where I divide my time between eating oysters and writing. Currently the oysters are winning.

I write to make people laugh so if you enjoy a chuckle or two then I think you’ll like my books.

 

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Publication Date: 12th March 2019

Publisher: Simon Truckle

ISBN: Paperback 978-1527238879

Also available in eBook

Pages: 223 pages (eBook)

Genre: Humorous Fiction

Format Reading: eBook

Copy Provided by: Simon Truckle

Blurb (as seen on Amazon) 

Your uncle has left you everything in his will. But he’s also given you a one-way ticket to Greece and told you to complete the Labours of Hercules. Tricky. Scott Poole – 24, broke and sadly single – is the last person you’d call a Hercules. But when his rich uncle packs him off to a Greek beach with a list of Labours to complete, Scott finds himself in the unlikely position of emulating a demi-god. A demi-god with a can of lager in one hand and a dented windsurf board in the other.As Scott and his best mate Oliver struggle to complete the modern-day Labours of Hercules the Gods don’t make things easy. They find themselves accidental owners of a beach bar, come up against German naturists, chippy Greek schoolkids and a grumpy donkey. What could possibly go wrong?

My Review

Before I go into my review I would just like to say a massive thank you to Simon Truckle for not just asking me to read and review Love’s Labours but for also sending me a review eBook and for his patients in waiting for my review.

book cover for loves labours by simon truckle

I really like this front cover its simple yet it has a fun feel to it from the blue sky to where the sea meets sky to the yellow sandy beach with a shack surfing boards and a random donkey!

This cover would defiantly have stood out to me if I was to go into a book shop!

It’s 1991 and Scott is newly single from the love of his life Abi. At the age of 24 Scott has no prospects or any dreams of the future and has become a bit of a disappointment to his parents. However he also suffers from anxiety which has stopped him from traveling and seeing the world. He did however strike up a great friendship with his uncle Ted who seems to get him. They have the same kind of comical humour and in character.

So when his uncle Ted passes away he is devastated. Scott’s father pulls him aside at the funeral and tells him he is to inherit all of his uncles assets only there’s a few stipulations. Ted wants Scott to travel to Volos in Grease and while he is there is to complete 7 of the 12 Labours of Hercules and to provide evidence of the Labours he completes. Then his uncle wants him in this time earn enough money to buy a sailing boat and sail back to the UK. Scott has two years in which to complete the task in order for him to get his inheritance. Ted has provided him with and airline ticket £200 in cash and a hand written  note from him. Ted always had a fascination with Greek mythology and never got to see the country for himself so he wants Scott to do it so he doesn’t end up like him.

Scott doesn’t want to do it alone so asks his best friend Oliver to accompany him on his quest. Can Scott with the help from Oliver and a few friends they make complete his challenge? Will Scott finally grow up and realise what he want in his life? Will they ever earn enough money to buy a boat to get home in the two year time limit? How will they earn the money? Is there romance in the air for one of the boys? Can Scott get over Abi? Or does he realise that he wants her back?

Love’s Labours by Simon Truckle is a perfect summer read and had me in stiches! It has a really great and unique storyline that keeps you thoroughly entertained till the very last page. I loved learning a bit of Greek Mythology along the way that was really quite interesting. I found Scott to be really endearing and I like his comical character a lot! What a great book! Well worth a read guy’s!!!!!

                                                    Marie’s Book Boutique give’s

                                                Love’s Labours by Simon Truckle

                                                              5 Sparkly Stars

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Book Review On: The Truth About Love And Dogs by Lilly Bartlett

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the truth about love and dogs by lilly bartlett

About the author (as seen on Amazon)

Lilly Bartlett author photoLilly Bartlett’s cosy romcoms are full of laugh out loud moments, quirky characters and guaranteed happily-ever-afters.

Lilly is the pen-name of Sunday Times and USA Today best-selling author, Michele Gorman, who writes best friend-girl power chick lit under her own name.

 

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Publication date: 13th October 2016

Publisher: Notting Hill Press

ISBN: Paperback 978-1796490268

Also available in Ebook format

Pages: 489 pages (Ebook)

Genre: Romantic Comedy

Format reading: ARC Ebook

Copy provided by: author- in exchange for my honest thoughts and feelings on the book.

Blurb (as seen on Amazon)

Rewind six months and Scarlett and Rufus aren’t in the honeymoon stage anymore so much as the honey-should-we-bother phase. Desperate to get their sparkle back, Scarlett has plotted, planned and waxed more than any woman should have to, but none of it is working. Which makes it very hard to start the family they want.

At least her business is going strong, even if her marriage isn’t. She and her best friend spend their days tangled up in dog leads and covered in fur. Scarlett is the fairy dogmother, training hopeless pets like compulsive eater Barkley, impulsive Romeo Murphy and bossy Biscuit. Meanwhile, her best friend walks the dogs and pines for the man who doesn’t know she exists. Thank goodness the women have each other.

If only Scarlett could work out how to get her marriage back on track. But Rufus isn’t sharing his feelings with her. He is, though, sharing with her best friend. Her best friend, Shannon.

My Review

I would like to say a massive thank you to Lilly Bartlett AKA Michele Gorman and Notting Hill Press for providing me with an ARC of the of The Truth About Love and Dogs for me to read and review here today. I also want to thank my friend Angela for kindly getting on the ground to take the fabulous photo and my grandma for the use of her dog ornaments and beautiful garden!

Front cover for the truth about love and dogs by lilly bartlettThe is such a fun front cover, with a wonderful scene of a park with a rivers flowing through. There are people walking their dogs, people sitting on benches, a person riding a bike, swans gliding on the river, dogs playing, and tress are dotted all around. There is just so much to take in! The title covers most of the cover and is in white; which really stands out against the blue and green backing. Lilly’s name is at the very bottom of the cover also in white! A very well designed front cover, I love it!!!!

Since I’ve deserved Lilly’s book’s I’m always eager to dive in, because of the humor, romance and all round goodness of her stories. Her are my reviews of her other books:

The Big Little Wedding In Carlton Square

The Second Chance Café

The Big Dreams Beach Hotel

Christmas at the Falling-down Guesthouse

The Not So Perfect Plan To Save Friendship House

Scarlett has been married to her husband Rufus for 5 wonderful years, although their honeymoon period is defiantly over as it would seem. They have been trying for a family of their own and it would seem like it’s not happening and the romance has floated away leaving stress on both parts as they wonder what’s wrong. She has a massive love for dogs and trained very hard to gain her training in dog behaviour management; which led her to set up her own dog training business, called Ruff Love. Offering dog behaviour training classes to concerned owners and their furry friends. Now her business is growing and branching out to offer a dog working service; which Scarlett’s best friend Shannon is taken on. Scarlett also offers one on one dog training although spaces are limited, her training courses which take place in the park or the local hall; her aim is to help not just the miss behaved dog’s but to train their owners on how to deal with it.  Can Scarlett and Rufus get past their stresses? Will they finally start their family? Or will the stress be just too much? Can Scarlett train her dog pupils into good behaviour? And there owners?

Shannon is a quiet, shy and very single… but she has her eye’s on a guy she see’s and has never plucked up the courage to talk in the park everyday walking his dog as she walks her clients canine friends. She has named him ‘Mr Darcy’ and fantasies about what his life and what his like to spend time with, often telling her best mates all about it. Scarlett and Rufus are always telling her to talk to him. She adores her job although some of the dog owners are both very random and very particular about their dog attire!!!! Shannon is  best friends with both husband (Rufus; who she grew up with) and wife (Scarlett); which at times is proving challenging. Will Shannon pluck up the courage to speak to her ‘Mr Darcy’? How will she deal with always being in the middle of her two best friends as they go through their turmoil? How does Shannon deal with owners who insist on dressing their dogs up to go for a walk?

The Truth About Love And Dogs by Lilly Bartlett is a wonderful loveable story with wonderful characters that are unique and interesting in every way. I can honestly say I haven’t laughed (out load might I add) so much while reading a book in a while! The dog’s with their behaviour problems had me in stitches!!! Lilly’s writing style is lovely with a plot that keep’s you entertained through out, in a way that makes you feel like your right there with them! I adore dog’s any way so this book was perfect and any dog lover with added romance and comedy! What more could you ask for in a book?!? I feel Lilly has really brought it back as her last book really didn’t do it for me… but this one is a knock out for sure!

                                                   Marie’s Book Boutique give’s 

                                The Truth About Love And Dogs by Lilly Bartlett

                                                   5 Wonderful Sparkly Stars
5starsAll my reviews are my own honest thoughts and feelings on a book and haven’t in anyway been influenced.

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Book Review On: Rosie’s Travelling Tea Shop by Rebecca Raisin

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Rosies travelling tea shop by rebecca raisin

About the author (as seen in the Ebook)

rebecca raisinRebecca Raisin is a true bibliophile. This love of books morphed into the desire to write them. Rebecca aims to write characters you can see yourself being friends with. People with big hearts who care about relationships, and most importantly, believe in true, once in a lifetime love.

 

 

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Publication date: 4th March 2019

Publisher: HQ

ISBN: Paperback 978-0008330842

Also available in Ebook and Audiobook format

Pages: (Ebook) 250 pages (Paperback) 384 pages

Genre: Romance/Women’s Fiction

Format reading: ARC Ebook

Copy provided by: Author and NetGally

Blurb (as seen in the Ebook)

Rosie Lewis has her life together.

A swanky job as a Michelin-Starred Sous Chef, a loving husband and a future children scheduled for exactly January 2021.

That’s until she comes home one day to find her husband’s pre-packed bag and a confession that he’s had an affair.

Heartbroken and devastated, Rosie drowns her sorrows in a glass (or three) of wine, only to discover the following morning that she has spontaneously invested in a bright pink campervan to facilitate her grand plans to travel the country.

Now, Rosie is about to embark on the trip of a lifetime, and the chance to change her life! With Poppy, her newfound travelling tea shop in tow, nothing could go wrong, could it…?

My Review

I would like to say a massive thank-you to Rebecca, NetGally and HQ for providing me with the ARC Ebook of Rosie’s Travelling Tea Shop to read and review. I’ve been super excited to read this!!!!!!!!

front cover for roises travelling tea shopWow, would you just take a minuet to apricate this great front cover…Starting from the top, there are a string of pink and blue lights strung in a wavy manner, then your eyes meets the title, which is coloured in a lovely shade of pink and look’s like it has been painted with a paint brush. Then under the title you can see the pink; with a blue strip through the centre campervan all set up to trade at a festival; with a table and chares set up in front, on the green grass behind, are other stalls and tents. Rebecca’s Name is done in  a blue which tie’s in with the blue strip on the campervan. I really found this appealing to look at in every way possible.

I’m such a fan of Rebecca’s book’s and are ones I will re-read again and again.

Secrets At Maple Syrup Farm

Winter at Cedarwood Lodge

Rosie; work’s as a Sous Chef at the Michelin-Starred London restaurant Epoque. She has work incredibly hard at her career, long unsociable hours to get to where she’s at. Rosie is a major organiser and has her own day to day life and even has a schedule for every part of her future. Her and her husband Callum do the same job in different establishments so are like passing ships in the night; making it difficult to have a life together. When Rosie returns from work one day finds him and his bags packed ready to leave. Callum admits to having an affair with a woman from his work.

Broken hearted and deciding to take drastic action Rosie leaves her job and then makes a drunken impulse purchase of a pink campervan; called Poppy in a bid to radically change her life. She want’s to turn Poppy into a pop-up tea shop, travelling around the country to festivals and fairs selling her home baked delights. Rosie searches  the net for websites and forums gathering information and start to plan her whole new future (that isn’t planned!!) She chats to a another nomad Oliver on a forum and he helps point her in the right direction and they start to strike up a friendship.

At Rosie’s first location she bumps into fellow nomad Aria; who runs a pop-up bookshop. instantly striking a friendship Aria suggests that they travel around together on the festival and fair’s circuit. Rosie agrees and Aria helps her put all the paper work she needs to have in place in order to trade. In return Rosie teaches her new friend to cook properly with out burning it!!!!!

On arriving at their first location Aria introduces Rosie to the others on the circuit. Max is one of the nomads and runs a vegan food stall, they clash where matters of food are concerned. Both lady’s soon get in the swing of things coming up with ideas to collaborate together with Rosie’s blend of teas and matching them to Aria’s books. As time goes on both Rosie and Aria open up about their individual heartbreak and become a welcome support for each other. Max also becomes a constant in Rosie’s life as they travel around the country, even thought she sometimes finds him annoying they start to spend their free time together. Max encourages her to do things well out of her comfort zone and she starts to realise she is enjoying herself. Mean while Max becomes increasingly worried about this Oliver character as he fails to meet up with Rosie; warning her to be wary of him. But Rosie’s judgement has been clouded by Oliver’s helpfulness and kindness.

Rosie also has Poppy to think about as she needs some serous TLC; putting in to question whether she can carry on in her nomad life. Can she find another way to carry on? Will Oliver finally show his face? Is Max right to be worried? Will Rosie listen? Can Aria find her own happiness? Does Max care about Rosie more than a friend? And does she feel the same? Or has Oliver clouded her judgement? Who will get Rosie’s heart?

Rosie’s Travelling Tea Shop by Rebecca Raisin is the most charming read! And what a ride it was!!!!! I adored travelling around with Rosie as she embarks on this new exciting life as a nomad, to see her grow through the story was wonderful; it was like watching a cake rise in the oven. Of course she doesn’t have a completely easy ride and there are many bumps in the road that she has to face and overcome. The friendship between Aria and Rosie was something pretty special, and provided me with a few giggles as I read! Love them!

Rebecca’s writing is gently and full of emotion and bursting with wonderful description; providing the reader with a perfect image as they read. Rebecca as some of you know is one of my many favourite authors of all time, because I can re-read all her book’s again and again and not tire of them and this one will be no different! Rebecca you have done a wonderful job on this book!!!! Another bestseller me thinks!!!!!

                                                      Marie’s Book Boutique gives

                                  Rosie’s Travelling Tea Shop by Rebecca Raisin

                                                                  5 Sparkly Stars
5stars

All my reviews are my own honest thoughts and feelings on a book and haven’t in anyway been influenced by anyone of anything.

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Book Review On: Then Now Always by Isabelle Broom

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IMG_1819

About the author (as seen on Amazon)

Isabelle Broom

Isabelle Broom was born in Cambridge nine days before the 1980s began and studied Media Arts in London before joining the ranks at Heat magazine, where she remains the Book Reviews Editor. Always happiest when she off on an adventure, Isabelle now travels all over the world seeking out settings for her novels, as well as making the annual pilgrimage to her true home – the Greek island of Zakynthos. Currently based in Suffolk, where she shares a cottage with her dog Max and approximately 467 spiders, Isabelle fits her writing around a busy freelance career and tries her best not to be crushed to oblivion under her ever-growing pile of to-be-read books.

Website: http://www.isabellebroom.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/isabellebroomauthor

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/Isabelle_Broom

Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/IsabelleBroom

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8153926.Isabelle_Broom

Publication date: 20th April 2017

Publisher: Penguin

http://www.penguin.co.uk

ISBN: Paperback 978-0718186661

Also available in Ebook

Pages: Paperback 416 pages, Ebook 434 pages

Genre: Romantic Comedy/ Contemporary

Format reading: ARC Ebook

Copy provided by: Netgally- Publisher

Blurb (as seen on Amazon)

Hannah Hodges can’t believe her luck when she’s offered a trip to sunny Spain with her best friend and dreamy boss . . . but what’s the catch?
Twenty-eight year old Hannah is ready for an adventure. She and her colleagues are in Spain for a month to film a documentary, and it’s a dream come true. Not least because Hannah will get to spend long summer days with Theo, her boss (and gorgeous crush). It couldn’t be a more perfect setting to fall in love . . .
If only Tom (Hannah’s best friend and cameramen) and Claudette (the presenter) would stop getting in the way . . .
Then things become even more complicated when Nancy, Hannah’s half-sister arrives. What on earth is she doing here?
For just once in her life, can’t Hannah have one perfect summer, free of any drama?
Calling all escapists! Prepare to be whisked away to the Spanish sun in this completely absorbing page-turner.

My Review

Firstly, I would like to thank Netgally and the Publishers for approving me an ARC Ebook of Then. Now. Always. by Isabelle Broom, in return for my honest thoughts on the book. My apologies for it being posted late; there’s just not enough reading hours in the day!

Then Now Always by Isabelle Broom Front coverWhen I look at the front cover for this book, it makes me what to jump right in there! From the sun setting sky to the typical Spanish street; with mountains behind.

I like the post franking mark on the cover, that’s cute! The blue of the title works great against the sun setting sky behind as does the author’s name in white. A white trim borders the whole scene which gives it a postcard feel to it!

Hannah; a researcher for Vivid Productions in London and has done so for 5 years. In that time she has done all the research for her work colleagues ready for when they go off and visit exotic and exciting locations, leaving her behind.

Hannah works with her best friend Tom; who is a cameraman, they have been friends since university and have been inseparable ever since. They often get mistaken for a couple when they are out together because they are so close. But Hannah has a crush on her boss Theo; a Greek god of looks. She hasn’t told Tom but does confide in the other best friend; Rachel.

Hannah has been researching her butt off ready to pitch her idea of the hidden culture of Majorca (Almeria) showing how in the 70’s Artistic people world-wide came there to join the colony to her Theo. The pitch goes down a storm, with the whole team and they give the go ahead to film there. But after the pitch she feel’s deflated because she never get’s to see the job through to the end. Until Theo pull’s her aside and asks her to join the rest of the team to help research on location. Hannah jumps at the chance to do her first ever location and will be accompanying Theo; who will be editing, Tom the cameraman and Claudette; who will be presenting. She does have intentions as this is the place she went to with Rachel and her family when they were in their teens; and having lots of fun in the process! The pair got matching tattoos to remind them of their fun. The tattoo is of Indalo man; the legend behind it means good luck and to word of evil. This is where her idea for the document came from! But what happened when her and Rachel went there years ago? Will she do anything about her crush for Theo? Will Tom notice his best friend’s crunch on Theo? or is there more to Toms feelings for his friend? Why is this trip so important to her?

Before she they leave London, Hannah, Tom, Rachel and her boyfriend Paul have a catch up! Hannah has a dislike for her friend’s choice of boyfriend, so when Rachel announces Paul will be moving in with her; Hannah isn’t that pleased. This doesn’t go unnoticed by Tom; who thinks she should be pleased for her oldest friend. But can she? Why doesn’t she like him?

On arrival Hannah gets a rush of memories, on exploring by herself she bump’s in to an English lady; Elaine who came to Majorca in the 70’s. Hannah asks if she would mind her interviewing her for the documentary, Elaine is reluctant but agrees as long as her face isn’t shown. But why? Is there more to Elaine’s story? Will she open up to Hannah?

Hannah also manages to have a few moment’s with Theo, however when they start to open up to each other, there’s always something that gets in the way. Then Hannah gets an unexpected visitor from her horror of a step sister Nancy. Hannah is not happy at all to see Nancy and makes her feeling’s quit clear. But what is Nancy doing there? Why does Hannah dislike her step-sister? Will Nancy get in the way?

Then. Now. Always. is the first book I’ve ever read of Isabelle’s and I am incredibly glad I did! This book managed to whisk me away to sunny Spain, somewhere I’ve never actually been to; but gosh I certainly feel like I have when I finished this delightful book. Isabelle managed to wrap me up in Hannah’s story, and I very much felt compelled to read on after every chapter! This book has ticked all the boxes for me from the glorious setting, characters to the storyline which equates to a really great read. I will now be looking out for more of her book’s to escape too! If you can’t guess, I highly recommend you have a read this delightful book!

                                                     Marie’s Book Boutique gives

                                           Then. Now. Always. by Isabelle Broom

                                                         A Superb 5 Sparkly Stars

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Book Review On: The Not So Perfect Plan To Save Friendship House by Lilly Bartlett

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IMG_3507

About the author (as seen in the Ebook)

Lilly Bartlett author photoLilly Bartlett is the pen-name of Sunday Times and USA Today best-selling author, Michele Gorman, who writes best friend-girl power comedies under her own name.

Michele writes books packed with heart and humour. Call them beach books, summer reads or chick lit… readers and reviewers call them ‘feel good’, ‘relatable’ and ‘thought provoking’

Michele was raised in the US and nw lives in London. She is very fond of naps, ice-cream and Richard Curtis films but objects to spiders and the word ‘portion’.

Website: michelegorman.co.uk

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/MicheleGorman

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/MicheleGormanUK

Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/michelegormanuk

Publication date: 31st August 2018

Publisher: Harper Impulse

http://www.harperimpulseromance.com

ISBN: Paperback 978-0008319663 (Pub date 15th November 2018)

Also available in Ebook

Pages: Ebook- 229 pages and  Paperback- 400pages

Genre: Romance comedy

Format reading: ARC Ebook

Copy provided by: Author

Blurb (as seen in the Ebook)

Meet Phoebe, who’s 28, and Laney, Dot and Maggie, who are 68, 78, and none of your business. Together they’ll prove that age doesn’t matter when it comes to friendship, belonging and an unquenchable zest for life.

When Framlingham’s famously all-female senior living home goes co-ed, a war between the sexes is declared.
Stuck in the middle, chef Phoebe Stockton is desperate to help her friends plot to keep the community that means so much to them. It’s become her life raft, too. She finds comfort in her beloved career that might finally make her parents proud. But Phoebe’s darling Nick is lining up on the other side of the battle, and their relationship is suffering collateral damage.
The stakes couldn’t be higher. If the home’s owner can’t improve business by moving the men in, he’ll have to evict everyone.

My Review

the not so perfect plan to save friendship house I would like to say thank you to Michele Gorman aka Lilly Bartlett for asking me to read and review her latest book The Not So Perfect Plan To Save Friendship House. And for providing me with an ARC to give my honest thoughts.

As some of you will know from my other reviews which you can read here Review On The Big Little Wedding In Carlton Square

The Second Chance Café

The Big Dreams Beach Hotel

Christmas at the Falling-down Guesthouse

I’m a massive fan of all her book’s so was extremely excited to see what her next story is all about.

Let’s get into the cover (as you know I love that bit!). I have to say I like the UK’s front cover rather than the US cover! This one feel’s more prettier, with the silhouette of a house coloured in a turquoise colour, in the top left of the house is a mug of a hot drink surrounded by pretty flowers,  and in the right bottom of the house is a comfy chair again with flowers. The long title is in white and is housed (excuse the pun!) in the house silhouette. Lilly’s name is coulure of the house which look’s great against the cream backing. I adore this cover for the bright colours; it’s very eye-catching.

Friendship House care home for lady’s only; set up by Mrs Greene, located in a small Suffolk town of Framlingham. Now Mrs Greene has passed on, her son is no at the helm. With the care home losing money Max often makes visits; with not always the best news! With Max’s father living in the cottage behind Friendship house, he often makes visit’s to the home and causes mayhem. What will Max’s changes mean to the lady residence? Will the lady’s co-operate? What will happen to friendship house? Can it be saved?

Phoebe is the cook at the home love’s her job and is a bit of a workaholic as is her co-worker, manager and best friend June. She also works with totally handsome and kind Nick ( the homes Occupational therapist); but when there ‘date’ with his friend; doesn’t quit go to plan Phoebe is mortified! Although  there are question’s as to why he is always sucking up to the boss! Why is Nick always happy to do more than his share of the work? What is with their relationship? Will they get over the misunderstanding?  Can her and Nick be more than just good friends?

When Phoebe loses her mother suddenly, and now she has all these feeling’s she doesn’t know what to do with. Her mother and father have built their business from scratch, and always thought their daughter could do much better than just being a cook.  All these feeling begging to surface and niggles her. Will she find anything out about why her mother was like that? Will she find out more about her mother?

On reading The Not So Perfect Plan to Save Friendship House, I enjoyed the story been written in the first person, which helped me feel connected to Phoebe. However I felt the storyline just didn’t draw me in this time, as in her previous books. The characters are funny and quirky thought, which was why I finished the book.

                                                 Marie’s Book Boutique gives

               The Not So Perfect Plan To Save Friendship House By Lilly Bartlett

                                                               3 Sparkly Stars
3-stars

 

 

 

Book Review On: Jennifer Brown’s Journey by Angie Langley

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About the author (as seen in the eBook)

Angie langleyAngie Langley has a background in the entertainment industry and has worked alongside artists from the UK, Europe and the US. Jennifer Browns Journey is her first book, inspired by the highs and lows of a distant past that has given her the strength to tackle each day with a smile.

Nowadays Angie is fortunate enough to live in a delightful 17th century thatched cottage on the banks of the river Avon in Wiltshire which not only provides her with inspiration to write, but also enables her to pursue her other passion photography.

Website: jenniferbrownsjourney.co.uk

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/Angie-Langley

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/angielangley0

http://www.twitter.com/JenBJourney

Publication date: 18th May 2017

Publisher: Riverside Publishing Solutions

ISBN: Paperback 978-0995592759]

eBook 978-0-9955927-1-1

Pages: 241 pages

Genre: Women’s Fiction/ Humour

Format reading: eBook

Copy provided by: author

Blurb (as seen on Amazon)

Five feet one and full of fizz, Jennifer Brown lights up the room. She has a gorgeous partner, a wicked best friend, and a boss who doesn’t mind that she’s the worst typist on the planet. She’s loyal, generous and irredeemably ditzy. Everyone loves Jennifer Brown. But can she learn to love herself? When her world caves in, she needs every ounce of her steely core to step back from the abyss and take charge of her life, reinventing herself first as cook and housekeeper to a saucy sexagenarian, then as manager of a tumbledown country estate with sensitive secrets. Peopled by a battalion of hilarious characters from the caustic, cross-dressing confidant to the besotted ex-boyfriend with a barmy ex-wife, Jennifer Brown’s Journey is a heartwarming, thoughtful, often poignant portrait of the trials of life as a thirty-something woman. Jennifer Brown champions the importance of self-belief, and the value of a bucket-sized glass of wine in a tight spot. And, always in the background, there’s the quiet man with the warm eYes, and the velvet vowels. What on earth is Jennifer Brown going to do about him?
The first in a series of three books, Jennifer Brown’s Journey is a story of female self-empowerment and the triumph of the human spirit in the face of challenges that many women will recognise. Lighthearted and poignant, the story gives readers a very real sense of a woman, initially rather ditzy, maturing into a redoubtable, self-possessed individual who faces her many challenges with developing aplomb.

My Review

Before I get into my review, I would like to say a massive thank you to Angie for reaching out to me and my blog to ask me if I could read and review Jennifer Brown’s Journey. Thank you also for sending me the eBook to review. I was super excited because I have read so many good things about this book.

Jennifer browns journey by angie Langley

Would you look at this totally amazing cover, I don’t know about you? but I could jump right in there!!!!! I adore the lovely painting affect this cover has, from the lovely blossom trees creeping at the top of the cover, the winding path lay in front of Jennifer (which refers to the journey she takes in the book) to the beautiful surroundings of grass, trees daisy’s, birds flying in the sky, and a fluttery butterfly. Jennifer’s character looks determined however by the looks of the suitcase, I can see it’s going to be quite a journey! Angie’s name is done in a bold print in white which stands out clearly against the blue sky behind. I really love titles that are use swirly print, it adds something quite nice to a cover in my eye’s, The pink use is really nice and works great with the blue sky and ties in with the pink blossom trees above.

Jennifer Brown’s Journey is a novel that is split into three parts, and in these the reader is taken along with Jennifer as she goes through trial’s, tribulations, up’s and down’s.

Her Journey starts when she is working as a PA. It’s not a job she is particularly great at nor does she love it. She make’s mistakes like typo errs like the ‘Dirty Rota’ but her boss Jonathan doesn’t seem to mind. Jennifer has been in a committed relationship with Pete for many years along with her loving and loyal dog. Not only is she committed to him but she is also a bit of a push over when it comes to Pete. She and Pete seem to have themselves in a bit of a rut, neither of them really happy. Jennifer even try’s to spice things up with him with an Ann Summers purchase; which doesn’t go well and knocks her confidence some more. Jennifer starts to get suspicious about all his texting, after confronting him, he ends the long relationship. Now she is homeless, heartbroken and has to leave her beloved dog behind. From the kindness of good friends she finds a the offer of somewhere to stay, until she gets back on her feet.

Fed up with her job, and broken-hearted Jennifer decides it’s time for a fresh start and to start something new. When she finds a job in Hampshire as a live in housekeeper, cook and gardener for an elderly gentle man. She has no experience in any of these things, but she know she can learn and it would also solve her problem of somewhere to live. Jennifer bag’s the job by winging it totally, learning from book and the internet. The gentle Man; Gerald is nothing like she expects, but the get along well. Then when Gerald brings back a Russian beauty! Jennifer can see her getting her claws into Gerald, when they announce they are to tie the knot!  Jennifer is well aware of what is coming next and starts looking for another job.

Jennifer applies of a live in PA/ Manager of Thornly Hall. On getting it she troughs herself in it, bring the Hall back to life with her new ideas. She get’s on with all the staff and becomes quite an asset to them all. During her work she get’s a whiff of romance from a guy she met back when she was PA for Jonathan. But will she reciprocate? She also comes across a sad story involving her boss.

I completely and utterly adored every single word of Jennifer Brown’s Journey by Angie Langley. I can honestly say that this is a book that had me laughing till my sides hurt, crying at the sad bits and willing Jennifer on when thing’s aren’t going her way. Thank you Angie for providing all those feeling into you totally fabulous novel. It has been written in such a lovely and  unique writing style; which flow’s with ease. Jennifer has to be my favourite character it couldn’t not be! I love her for her willingness to try something she has no idea about and for her shear will and determination. I did also enjoy soaking up all the other unique people that she comes across; which I found really refreshing to read. I say bring on the next book Angie, I can’t wait!

So if you are looking for a truly fabulous heart-worming story; which will have you entertained for sure, this one is for you!!!!!!!!

                                                        Marie’s Book Boutique gives

                                        Jennifer Brown’s Journey by Angie Langley

          A Fantastic 5 Sparkly Stars (If I could give you more Angie I would!!!!!)

5stars

 

Book Review On: The Man On The Roof by Michael Stephenson

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About the author (as seen in the Ebook)

Born in Cleveland, Ohio, Michael cultivated his love for storytelling on a steady diet of film and Tv, embracing the art across all genres and mediums. He believes that to tell a story is the greatest gift that humanity has ever received and hopes to connect through words both written and filmed. A thoughtful suburbanite, he enjoys writing in every genre and platform. Covering a wide range of subjects, ethnicities, socioeconomic classes and ideals, his writing runs the gamut from silly light-hearted to thought- provoking and sensual to horrifying and captivating. Offering everything from sci-fi to romance, he wishes to supply the reader with indelible experience. He seeks to tell stories in the best possible way in both popular culture and more niche genres. He hopes to soon write for film again, as he had briefly before, and aspires to write screen play for the film adaptation of Captain Planet as he loves the environment and has been an avid vegetable gardener for the last decade.

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/filmbooksball

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6653829.Michael_Stephenson

Publication date: 22 June 2018

Pages: 619 pages

Genre: Crime/mystery-thriller

Format reading: ARC Ebook

Copy provided by: author

Blurb (as seen on Amazon)

Someone has been creeping in the dark while the others sleep, and they’ve done terrible, terrible things.

“There was a man on your roof,” claims curmudgeonly lane-hermit Herbert McKinney. Then, he initiates an unprovoked fight with a local punk. Drama escalates when that punk’s dead body is found hanging at mid-street one August morning—a boastful killer messaging their next prey. All fingers point to Herbert as the culprit. Soon, the five couples he calls neighbours come under suspicion, too. When lead detective Cady Lambert divines blackmail as the motive, eyes cross to find who hides the most shameful secret. Husband versus wife, friend versus friend, the shiny suburban veneer of innocence has been forever tarnished. As hidden deviousness boils from their pores, there lurks a thief, a pill addict and a sadist—secrets worth killing for.

Now, as the man on the roof helps guide justice and watches devious neighbours slip in and out of sleepy houses, confusion and questions persist. Who dies next? What have they learned? Who is becoming a monster? Who already is one? And just how many secrets can a small group of multi-ethnic Ohioans have? Only one cemented truth exists: the killer will kill again.

A tension-building psychological mystery-suspense thriller, The Man On The Roof propels the reader through a tangled, volatile and suspenseful thicket of deception, murder and friends, inviting the reader to discover the murderer and who hides which lie.

My Review

The Man On The Roof by Michael StephensonI would just like to say a massive thank you to Michael Stephenson for getting in touch with me, asking me to read, review and kindly providing me with an ARC Ebook of his book.

My first impression of the front cover for The Man On The Roof, is that it’s giving off a creepy feel before I’ve even started to read!!!! The cover is misty and dark showing a crescent with a siloet of a man on the roof of one of the houses. Light is reflecting casing a shoot of light across the cover. The title is in red and stands out well, adding to the creepy dark feel. The author’s name is in white at the bottom of the cover. All in all this cover has me feeling kind of alarmed at what I was going to be reading, but in an interesting kind of way. if that makes any sense at all!!!!!

I have never read any of Michael’s previous books so I had no idea what to expect. However judging by the cover I have prepared myself for a spine-chilling ride!!!!!!!!

In a Ohio cul-de-sac, where dark secrets are kept hidden from each other and their fellow neighbours! All the residence all have children except for one couple, and are all ‘friends’ accept from the lonely grumpy old man. The family’s spending time in each others homes, and having days out together; they even have key’s to each others houses. But each of them have a dark secret to bear.

The old man declares he has seen a man on the roof of one of the houses, but they all think he is looking for attention and is lonely; after losing his wife.

One morning a young boy is found murdered on the cul-de-sac, the police are called and an investigation as to why and who would murder this young boy. All the residence find themselves suspects; making all their lives being looked at under a microscope. The residence claim they haven’t really had many dealings with the victim. But are they telling the truth? What dark secret’s are they hiding? Are they all really squeaky clean? Why was the boy murdered? Who is the man lurking on the roof?

The story comprises of being written in the third-person and anonymous first person (the suspects in the murder investigation!) I found this really interesting narrative to read and as you read further you can kind of work out which suspect is who.

The Man On The Roof by Michael Stephenson is a spin-chilling, twisted story, which had me on the edge of my seat! He has included a lot of detail in this book; which was really great for giving the reader a clear picture of the setting and surroundings. I feel the story was very cleverly written, I really didn’t see the ending coming at all! (maybe because I was a bit creeped out!) There are so many twists and turns in which this book takes providing the reader with chilling mystery and anticipation. I would however say to anyone contemplating picking this book up in does cover things of an adult nature and is quit a heavy story, so would be unsuitable for a young person.

                                                       Marie’s Book Boutique gives

                                     The Man On The Roof by Michael Stephenson

                                                                   4 Sparkly Stars
4 stars

 

 

Review on: The Little Bed & Breakfast by the Sea by Jennifer Joyce

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About the author (as seen in the book)

Jennifer Joyce

Jennifer Joyce is a writer of romantic comedies. She’s been scribbling down bits of stories for as long as she can remember, graduating from a pen to typewriter and then an electronic typewriter. And she felt like the bee’s knees typing on that. She now writes her books on a laptop (which has a proper delete button and everything). Jennifer lives in Oldham, Greater Manchester, with her husband Chris and their two daughters, Rianne and Isobel, plus their bunnies Cinnamon and Leah and Jack Russell Luna. When she isn’t writing, Jennifer likes to make things- she’ll use any excuse to get her craft box out. She spends far too much time on Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram.

Website: http://www.jenniferjoycewrites.co.uk

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/JenniferJoyceWrites

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/writer_jenn

Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/writer_jenn

Publication date: 28th June 2017

Publisher: HQ Digital

ISBN: eBook 978-0-00-825440-7

Paperback 978-0-00-827447-4

Pages: 366 pages

Genre: Romantic Comedy

Format reading: eBook

Copy provided by: Netgally and Publishers

Blurb (as seen in on amazon)

One summer can change everything…
Mae has no time for men in her life! Local vet Alfie might be totally gorgeous but she’s far too busy looking after her young daughter and running her little bed & breakfast by the sea.
Willow is in the middle of building her dream home with her husband, Ethan, when disaster strikes. And with every month that passes she secretly worries that her happy ever after will never come true…
Melody only intended to stay in the bustling seaside town for a few days. But when she meets Hugo – the charming man in the ice cream van – she decides to stay a little longer.

My Review

I would like to say a massive thank you to HQ Digital and Netgally for providing me with an eBook of The Bed & Breakfast by the sea by Jennifer Joyce to read and to give an honest review!

The Bed & Breakfast by the sea by Jennifer Joyce

Wow!!!! What a gorgeous front cover this is… it encapsulated a very summary scene, with the yellow flowers creeping on the sides to the light blue sky which meets the darker blue of the wavy sea. There are people sitting at tables with umbrellas for shade, a bike leans up against the harbour railings. I love the building that is decorated with pink flower wind boxes which adds to the summery feel of this very well designed cover, it makes me think and feel all summery before I even begun to read!!!!!!

The Little Bed & Breakfast by the Sea is based in the beautiful sea-side town of Clifton- on- sea. Where the reader meet Mae; the owner of the B&B, a single mother of four-year old Hannah. Mae inherits her home from her grandmother for her and Hannah to live in. With more bedroom’s than see need’s she open’s up as a B&B to help subsidise her wages from the local pub she works in. Mae is so busy she has little time of anything else and relies on her mother to help with the childcare when she is at work during the day. I could tell straight away that Mae is a strong and independent lady who has the most beautiful caring nature. She even has herself an admirer; a handsome local vet who keep’s asking her out only for Mae to knock him back. Even her boss, good friends and God parents to Hannah thinks she should go on a date with him. But how can she with so much going on? Will the handsome Vet give up on Mae? Or will Mae take the leap and accept his offer of a date? Is Mae really happy with her life as it is?

Willow and her husband Ethan; have just brought their first home; which they are doing up while living there. However Ethan works away in the week leaving Willow to run her Up-cycling business and keeping an eye on the builders. Then she get’s the mother of all shocks when her builder informs her the house need some serious work doing to it; meaning she and Ethan have to temporarily move of while the work’s being carried out. In a bid to find somewhere to stay in the height of summer in a seaside town, but finds no where, until Mae finds her saying she’s had a cancellation a has a room for her. Willow and Ethan’s relationship is strained by the expense their home is costing and they seem to be having a rough patch. But can they work through it? Will the house drain all there funds and break them?

Melody, is on a mission in traveling the Northern seaside towns to capture photo’s that show the best of the British seaside towns; for an exhibition she promised someone she’d do. There’s a great sadness around Melody, but why? Traveling to Clifton- on-sea, she is shocked by fellow traveller; who is not only annoying but rude to boot. She has booked into staying in Mae’s B&B and she is delighted with the accommodation, considering what she has stayed in on her travels. During her exploration of the town she keep’s bumping into the annoying traveller; Hugo. As they start to spend time together when he becomes more cheeky; which made me giggle at times! And I think Melody start’s to really enjoy his company. What is the sadness Melody carry’s around with her? Have Hugo and her got anything in common? Will she get that photo she’s looking for?

There are many ups and down’s which all the lady’s have to face throughout the story; which they have to over come and a few embarrassing moments that really kept me entertained. I also think all ok them needed to have found a friendship with each other; which is something I think they all needed … because lets face it in really life we all need girlfriends around us through thick and think!!!!!!! I really did enjoy all the characters in The Little Bed & Breakfast by the sea, simply because they were all seemed so real when I read!!!!!! and the way the all develop as people! I particularly ADORED Mae’s daughter Hannah, she is the cutest and made me chuckle quite a bit through out!!!!!! I really think Jennifer Joyce has captured this perfectly!

The Little Bed & Breakfast by the sea by Jennifer Joyce is the perfect summer read. It’s light-hearted story and providing you with a few giggles along the way. I adore you writing Jennifer and really can’t wait to explore more of you wonderful stories. I can’t recommend this book enough and defiantly on I want to re-read!!!!!

                                                  Marie’s Book Boutique give’s

                         The Little Bed & Breakfast by the sea by Jennifer Joyce

                                                               5 Sparkly Stars

5stars

Review on A Little of Chantelle Rose by Cristina Hodgson

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a bit of chantelle rose new book cover

About the author (as seen in the book)

cristina Hodgson

Cristina Hodgson, mother of two, born in Wimbledon, London, currently lives in Southern Spain. Cristina had a long career in sport, reaching national and international level and still actively participates in Triathlon races and enjoys outdoor activities. In her spare time she also enjoys reading and writing. She won a Sports Scholarship to Boston college. After a period in Boston, she returned to the UK and graduated from Loughborough University with a degree in Sports science.

A Little of Chantelle Rose is her debut novel. Amazingly it has nothing to do with running.

Website: http://www.cristinahodgson.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/HodgsonCristina

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/Hodgsoncristina

Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/cristinahodgson

Publication date: 28th February 2018

Publisher: Sabina Press

ISBN: Paperback 978-1545051320

Pages: 275 pages

Genre: Romantic Comedy, mystery

Format reading: eBook

Copy provided by: author

Blurb (as seen on Amazon

A role to play that may strip her of everything. Except her name…

At the age of twenty-four, Chantelle Rose has all a city girl can expect: a tiny bed-sit in South London, a lousy poorly-paid job, a tyrannical boss, and quite a few exes added to an ever-growing list.

Desperate for change, she becomes an extra in a seedy crime film. When that leads to the opportunity of a lifetime – a role to play with a million dollars to win and seemingly nothing to lose – she accepts without thinking twice. After all, what could possibly go wrong? In any event, she´ll earn enough to buy her dream home, set up her own business and never worry about money again.

And what about love? Two men have won her heart: Robbie – sultry, silent, mysterious; and Lionel – Hollywood heart-throb, charm, wealth, adventure.

But who can she trust? Who is bent on scaring her away, and why?

There seems to be more at stake than just her heart. Will a million dollars be worth it?

My Review

I would just like to say a massive thank you to the author Cristina, for not only asking me to read and review A little of Chantelle Rose, but also being so kind and patient with me in waiting for the review.

As I look at the front cover on my kindle, I see a lady who look’s elegant and beautiful in her black hat, dress and gloves holding a single read rose. The red is carried on with the swirly writing of the title and normal font for the author’s name; which really stands out against the darkness of the front cover.

The reader meet’s Chantelle Rose, an actress who has to take job in films, that aren’t quite what she envisaged doing. She lives in a pokey bed-sit in London, struggling to make ends meet. In a bid to make herself feel better, she takes her rich best friend; Tammy on a girls weekend in the Kent countryside. Traveling in style in Tammy’s Jaguar, they get a bit lost looking for the hotel and come across the home of Chantelle’s dreams; with rose’s trailing around it! (almost like it meant to be with a for sale sign up at the front!?!?) She immediately falls in love with it; when they are moved on by a rather dish fella. Moving on, they end up getting stuck. There rescuer’s are Robbie the fella from before and Ray, but Chantelle is convinced they are gay. I really felt a mutual attraction between Robbie and Chantelle and got the feeling there was a lot more to come with these two.

However the girl’s trip get’s cut short; when she get a vague phone call offering her a job in a Hollywood film and paying more money then she’s ever earned. With nothing to lose and the big pay check that could buy her dream house she accepts.

Still not knowing what her role is she travels to America; California; where she is taken to a lavish mansion and living in a small cottage on the grounds. Chantelle get’s whipped in to shape by Gabby who has put her on a fat-free diet. Not expecting to be woken at the crack of dawn for a run, by Gabby! Not being able to slack for a single second, as they are of a time frame to be ready for filming.

Even when Chantelle arrives at the desert set, she still find’s it remarkably odd that she is give no information on her role, but now knows she will be working with a Hollywood heart-throb. But all is not what it seam’s as the story goes on and to be honest with you readers I don’t want to spoil the story for you! There are many twist’s and unexpected turn’s for Chantelle. Will she be able to carry out her role? Is she going to get her dream home? Is this role going to lose her of herself? Will she find love? And with who?

Oh my gosh dear readers, what a gripping book A little of Chantelle Rose is, I quite literally couldn’t put this book down. Cristina writes with wit and so many twists and turns to keep you entertained till the very end. I adored Chantelle’s character she was so intriguing and I also love her friendship with Tammy. I had so many lough out load moments while reading; meaning I would get weird glances from people in the room! (But I didn’t care!!!) I really enjoyed all the mystery woven in to this story, it literally captivates you through out. I think it’s pretty fear to say I bloody loved this book and urge you to read!!!!! All that’s left for me to say is bring on book two, I need to read more about this character!!!!!!!!!

                                                  Marie’s Book Boutique give’s

                                A Little of Chantelle Rose by Cristina Hodgson

                                                  A Super sparkly 5 stars

5stars

 

 

 

Review on: Rafferty Lincoln Loves… by Emily Williams

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About the author (as seen in the book)

Emily Williams author pic 2

Emily Williams lives by the seaside in West Sussex with her family and a large menagerie of small pets. After graduating from Sussex university with a BA in Psychology, Emily trained as a primary school teacher and teaches in a local school. Rafferty Lincoln Loves… is her second novel. Her debut novel Letters to Eloise was published earlier in the year to much success.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Website: https://emilywilliamsauthor.blogspot.co.uk

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EmilyWilliamsAuthor

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/EmilyRMWilliams

Publication date: 14th February 2018

Publisher: Lutino Publications

lutinopublications@yahoo.com

ISBN: paperback 978-0995742116

Pages: 239 pages

Genre: Young Adult

Format reading: ACR ebook

Copy provided by: author

Blurb (as seen on Amazon)

‘A sensational and compelling, coming of age story for older YA readers. Foreword.’ by Frankie Dettori MBE, ambassador for the British Thoroughbred Retraining Centre. 

Rafferty Lincoln doesn’t like horses. Not one bit. But when the popular high school girl of his dreams, Liberty Ashburn pulls him into a world of lead ropes and horse brushes, who is he to say no?

Except this isn’t any old horse. This is the missing racehorse, Profits Red Ridge. The horse Rafferty and three of his friends are hiding from the world. And Liberty Ashburn isn’t just any ordinary high school girl. How far will Rafferty go to win her over?

An intense, witty and powerful coming of age story with startling consequences.

My Review

Firstly I would like to say a massive thank-you to Emily; for asking me to read and review Rafferty Lincoln Loves… I was thrilled to be asked. As an animal lover myself and when Emily told me the proceeds of the book going to British Thoroughbred Retraining Centre, how could I not? Plus I’m a big fan of Emily’s writing ( I reviewed and did a Q and A with Emily for her debut novel Letters To Eloise which you can check out here )

Rafferty Lincoln Loves

I really love the simplicity of this cover, with the blue background, to the origami horse made from a page from a book. It’s very eye-catching indeed!

Rafferty Lincoln Loves… is a story surrounding four teenagers and as they come accross an abandend horse (or so they think) The three boy don’t know what to do, so Will suggests they ask his sister Liberty; the populour girl at school and who would love nothing better than to have her own horse. Liberty’s parents brought her all the gear for a horse, but just never got her an actual horse. Once they found a place to keep him, they set about sorcing food and water for him. Liberty makes it perfectly clear to Dexter, Rafferty and her brother Will that they must keep the the horse a secret and to never talk about him unless they are around him.

They find ways to keep him feed and watered and name him ‘Minty’ It’s clear from the start that Rafferty has a big crush on Liberty, and as they weren’t permitted to hang out at school, Minty field  became the place that they would. Rafferty does notice some of Dexter’s odd behaviour, but pushed it from is mind; with being so wrapped up in his crush. Will they be able to keep Minty away from the world? Will Rafferty get his girl? What is going on with Dexter? Will they realise who Minty really is and hand him back?

I really enjoyed this very compelling young adult read from Emily Williams. She has packed this story full of a wide range of teenage issues, and her vast knowledge of horse’s really shines through every single page. I felt I learnt quite a bit about horse’s through reading this!!!! I especially loved the way they all got joy from the horse in way or another even Rafferty. The way he went to such lengths to learn about the animal just to impress Liberty. Dexter’s character was partially sad and I really didn’t see the ending coming! All in all I think this book would be the perfect escapism for young adults, and it’s supporting an amazing horse charity! I’m highly recommending you give Rafferty Lincoln Loves…

                                                Marie’s Book Boutique gives

                                Rafferty Lincoln Loves… by Emily Williams

                                                      5 Sparkly Stars

5stars

 

Blog Tour: Book review on The Magic of Stars by Jackie Ladbury

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The Magic of Stars Full Tour

The magic of stars by Jackie Ladbury

About the author (as provided by Rachel’s Random Resources)

The Magic of Stars Author PicJackie Ladbury was desperate to become a journalist when she left school but was ousted within minutes on the day of the exam at her local rag because she’d forgotten to bring a pen.

Short and sharp lesson learned.

Her budding writing career was not on hold for long, though, as Jackie found herself scribbling love stories of pilots and ‘hosties’ while she flew in aeroplanes of various shapes and sizes as a flight attendant herself.

Fast forward a good few years and, after being short-listed in a couple of prestigious romantic writing competitions, Jackie decided it was time to discard her stilettos, say goodbye to the skies and concentrate on writing romantic novels, where the only given is a guaranteed ‘happy ever after.’
Website: https://www.jackieladbury.com/

https://thewriteromantics.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jackie.ladbury

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/JackieLadbury

Publication date: 1st January 2018

Publisher: Fabrian Books

To purchase from Amazon: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Magic-Stars-feel-good-heavenly-romance-ebook/dp/B078BF91XS

Pages: 261 pages

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Format reading: ARC Ebook

Copy provided by: Rachel’s Random Resources

Blurb (as provided by Rachel’s Random Resources)

Sapphire Montrose always felt like a loser in the struggle of life, but when she becomes the airline manager of a run-down airline she starts to believe she is a winner – until she unwittingly propositions her new boss and all her hard work is undone.

In a moment of recklessness air stewardess, Sapphire Montrose throws caution and her dress to the wind by propositioning a handsome stranger in a hotel in Florence, only to find herself waking up alone and embarrassed in her hotel room.

Unfortunately for Sapphire, it turns out that her new boss, Marco Cavarelli, is the man she failed to seduce and she is now fighting for her job and her self-respect when he tells her there is no place in his revamped airline for an alcoholic woman with lascivious tendencies. To make matters worse she is increasingly attracted to him and he seems to be giving out the same vibes. Or is he simply testing her? One wrong move could be the end of her career. But what if he really is offering love – and is he worth the risk?

My Review

Before I start my review I would just like to say a massive thank you to Rachel from Rachel’s Random Resources; for not only asking me to take part in this wonderful blog tour to share my review but also for providing me with an ARC to read.

This is the first book of Jackie Ladbury’s I’ve read, and as you all know I do like to discover a new author (to me that is!) As soon as I read the blurb of The Magic of Stars, I had a feeling it was I book I would enjoy immensely and boy was I right!!!!!!!!

We meet Sapphire Montrose as she travels to Florence; with her boss Mr Clark to accompany him while he travels to a business meeting. It also worked in her favour as her boyfriend; Rick is staying in a hotel there, and she wants to surprise him. She is hoping to take their relationship to the next level. However it’s her that get’s the surprise of her life, when catching him in a very compromising position. With her future happiness shattered in an instant, and Rick not even fighting to keep her, she goes away broken-hearted to another hotel.

The hotel Sapphire finds is an exquisite and expensive. Once checked in she heads straight to the bar to get drunk. Not being a drinker gets drunk quite quickly and is saved from falling from her bar stool by the owner Marco Caverelli. He seems troubled himself but caring with a smidgen of reductants to get involved. However Marco is a gentle man and takes her to her room safely when Sapphire make’s a bit of a fool of herself. I could tell straight away these two characters, had something special and even though they don’t know it the as the reader is given the feel in though Jackie’s writing.

Unbeknown to Sapphire her boss; and owner of the small failing airline, wants to take a back seat and bring Marco in to regenerate the airline. Then Mr Clark can spend and look after his ill wife. The only thing Mr Clark wants is for Marco to  keep his nephew Finbar in a job.

But with Marco comes big changes, that not everyone will like and when he turns up to meet the staff Sapphire can’t quite place him. It doesn’t take her long to work out he was the man in the hotel in Florence, and is totally mortified. He has his own personal issues too, which cloud’s his judgement of Sapphire.  He think’s she has a drinking problem and likes to make moves on men! These two have many misunderstandings and disagreements like this through out the book, which really build’s the anticipation of will they won’t they and made me read on.

This story is bloody amazing, I quite literally couldn’t put my kindle down!! I found myself so engrossed in the story, I felt sad when I came to the end, not because it was a sad ending but because I didn’t want it to end. The plot and flow were and is so captivating, you really won’t be able to put it down. And I think its safe to say I adored the characters very much, they were interesting, intriguing, and above all the are loveable.

The Magic Of Stars is full of drama, emotion, romance, heart- break, misunderstandings and many funny moments that makes such a fabulous book. I would highly recommend you give this book a go because I truly adored every single second of it and I will defiantly be re-reading this one!

                                    Marie’s Book Boutique give’s

                           The Magic of Star’s by Jackie Ladbury

                               A superb 5 sparkly stars!!!!!!!!!

5stars

Review on The Big Dreams Beach Hotel by Lilly Bartlett

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About The Author (as seen on Amazon)

Lilly Bartlett author photo  Lilly Bartlett’s cosy romcoms are full of warmth, quirky characters and guaranteed happy-ever-afters.

Lilly is the pen-name of Sunday Times and USA Today best-selling author Michele Gorman, who writes best-frend-girl-power comedies under her own name.

 

 

Website: http://www.michelegorman.co.uk

Facebook: Michele Gorman

Twitter: @MicheleGormanUK

Publication Date: 18 August 2017

Publisher: HarperImpulse

http://www.harperimpulseromance.com

ISBN: Paperback 978-0008226626

Pages: 272 pages

Genre: Romantic Comedy

Format Reading:  ebook  (ARC)

Copy Provided By: Author and Publisher

Blurb (as seen on Amazon)

Rosie’s life isn’t exactly going the way she expected. Three years after ditching her career dreams in New York City, she’s still managing the faded Victorian hotel in her seaside hometown.

The hotel’s new owners want to turn the quintessentially English institution into a copy of their Florida properties… flamingos and all. Cultures are clashing and the hotel’s oddball residents stand in the way of the developers’ big plans. To them the hotel is both home and family. That’s going to make Rory’s job difficult when he arrives to enforce all the new changes. And Rosie isn’t exactly on his side. He might be charming, but he’s still there to evict her friends. What’s worse, she’s supposed to be helping him do it.

This is Rosie’s only chance to revive the career she’s always wanted. But how can she follow her dreams if it means ending everyone else’s.

My Review

Before I start rambling on I would just like to thank Lilly Bartlett AKA Michele Gorman and HarperImpulse for not only approaching me but also for providing me with an ARC, my sincere apologies for the delay in getting my review posted.

Big Dreams Beach Hotel UK Lilly BartlettAs many of you will know I’m a sucker for a beautifully designed front cover, and what a delightful cover this is. I really want to like jump right in there!!!!! It’s bright and truly eye-catching in ever aspect. From the tall buildings lining the sea front and the sandy beach, to the single seagull gliding near the title and the one’s in the distance. I love the bunting at the top which adds to its charm.

The Big Dreams Beach Hotel is a story set in the seaside town of Scarborough, but this isn’t just any hotel, it’s a bit rundown and is owned by the Cornel; who was in the Royal Marines. He employed Rosie three years ago to manage the running of the hotel. In a bid to bring in some cash to the hotel the Cornel arranges with the local council to rent some of the rooms out, but it’s not enough. So he drops a bomb on Rosie and the other residence that he has had to sell the hotel, to and American company; in order to save it, he assures all the residents and Rosie that there home’s and job’s are safe.

Rosie is shocked but supports his decision, she just never in her wildest dreams did she think her career would end up back in her hometown, and as the reader you feel her sadness but not only that but her own turmoil which adds some mystery to the story.

The two American brothers who have brought the hotel and by all accounts don’t get along, want to bring Florida to sunny Scarborough; with bright colours and outrageous ideas(which is funny in it’s self!!!). These two characters really made me chuckle with their petty squabbling, flamboyant schemes and ridiculous rules. They employ Rory a charming English man to help Rosie and the residents with the new transformation that is about to take place. But they have to face many drama’s along the way in order to keep the residents; who are trying to be pushed out and the work force happy. It’s not just the residents and staff  the two brothers and Rory has to keep happy but the community as well as they are very much apart of the hotel and adds added income. But is Rory on their side? Will the resident’s be able to keep the roof over there heads? and will Rosie have her dream career? Will Rosie find any happiness?

The Bog Dreams Beach Hotel by Lilly Bartlett is a romantic comedy that will have you chuckling to yourself for sure. I found it a joy to read from beginning to very end. I’ve said this before in my other reviews ( which you can check out here Review On The Big Little Wedding In Carlton Square by Lilly Bartlett and Blog Tour & Review On The Second Chance Café By Lilly Bartlett ) and I will say it again, Lilly your writing style is truly wonderful and I have adored every second of you books! I actually plan on putting these books back on my to read pile, I’ve enjoyed them so much!

 

                                            Marie’s Book Boutique gives

                           The Big Dreams Beach Hotel by Lilly Bartlett

                                            A Massive 5 Sparkly stars

5stars

 

 

 

 

 

 

Blog Tour & Review On The Second Chance Café By Lilly Bartlett

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The Second Chance Cafe blog tour graphic

Today’s the last stop on The Second Chance Café in Carlton Square blog tour and it’s mine and the lovely Minivan Dreams turn! Wow what a tour its been and to being amongst some amazing bloggers in the proses! As my lovely readers will know this has been the first blog tour I’ve been apart of and what a joy its been to be involved in! I would just like to thank Michele Gorman and HarperImpulse for inviting me to take part in this wonderful blog tour.

 

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About the author (as seen on Amazon)

Lilly Bartlett author photoLilly Bartlett’s Cosy romcoms are full of warmth, quirky characters and guaranteed happy-ever-afters.

Lilly is the pen-name of Sunday Times and USA Today best-selling author, Michele Gorman, who writes best friend-girl power comedies under her own name.

 

 

Blog: http://www.michelegorman.blogspot.com

Website: http://www.michelegorman.co.uk

Facebook: Michele Gorman

Twitter: @MicheleGormanUK

Instagram: michelegormanuk

Publication Date: 23rd June 2017

Publisher: HarperImpulse

http://www.harperimpulseromance.com

ISBN: paperback 978-0008226589

Amazon UK: http://amzn.to/2qOjV7L

Amazon US: http://amzn.to/2rcklE4

Pages: 243 pages

Genre: Romantic Comedy

Format: Ebook (ARC)

Copy provided by: Author and publisher

Blurb (as seen on Amazon)

One chance isn’t always enough…

Everyone expects great things from Emma Billings, but when her future gets derailed by an unexpected turn of events, she realizes that getting back on track means traveling in a different direction.

She finds that new path in the closed-down pub on Carlton Square. Summoning every ounce of ingenuity and with the help of her friends and family, she opens the Second Chance café. The charity training business is meant to keep vulnerable kids off the streets and (hopefully) away from the Metropolitan Police, and her new employees are full of ideas, enthusiasm… and troubles. They’ll need as much TLC as the customers they’re serving.

My Review

The Second Chance Café in Carlton Square by Lilly Bartlett is the second instalment in the Carlton Square series. (You Can check out my review on the first here ) I will admit I was eager to delve in to this story and return to those loveable characters and meeting some new one’s.

Second Chance Cafe UK small book cover

Isn’t this cover to die for! It really dose have a cheerful feel to it; with the London land skape behind the café and the bunting on the building. The tree branches leaning in the corners and green grass with a white picket fence in front continues the gorgeousness of the cover (and we all know how much I love a pretty cover!) The three story café looks quite quaint even thought its in a big city! You can see a lady juggling a toppling cake and a pram! Everything about this cover is just right in my eye’s!!!!

I really enjoyed that Lilly wrote in the first person (Emma) because I feel it’s so engaging for the reader. Also by doing this I felt connected to the characters and the story it’s self; which kept my full attention till the very end.

We meet Emma as she finds a rundown pub in Carlton Square, East London in which to embark on turning it in to a café. But this café is on ordinary café; Emma wants to help vulnerable kids that have been in trouble for what ever reason, to give them a ‘second chance’ by starting a training program. As I read I really felt Emma’s passion and determination to help these troubled sole’s. I really found this idea particularly an inspirational one in its self to help give kids something positive and keeping them out of trouble! Not only is Emma sorting the café out but she has twin babies, a husband who works and she rarely see’s, a mother trying to juggle working taking care of her father with M.E and a great auntie going walk about then theirs the rich in-laws; who have loaned her the money for the business and keeps trying to help. Also amounts all this she has to deal with a disgruntled café owner; who play’s havoc with the opening and survival of the business. So as you can see poor Emma has her hands well and truly full! It was a joy to see Emma’s character grow from being shy to standing up for herself, her family, the café and its workers and her loyal customers and also the way she deals with everything that came her way. I found the way Emma’s family, friends and the community come together to help the café become a reality, to be wonderfully endearing and a joy to read.

I adored all the characters if I’m honest for their engage ability  to me as the reader, their individuality and quirkiness. From the old couple that used to drink in the old pub to Emma’s best friend Kelly I enjoyed them all ( apart from the one’s trying to sabotage the café obviously!) I do just want to mention Emma’s two trainee’s because those two really are fab character’s! Josh I liked pure and simply because he was so keen (for an kid!) to learn and do his very best, and he made me giggle too. Lou really intrigued me the most for the pure mystery that surrounds her; which left me wanting to find out more about her.

The description in The Second Chance Café in Carlton Square is truly enchanting as it evokes a perfect image in the readers mind and engrossed me especially. Be sure to have a nice hot beverage and a bit of cake because it make me want to eat cake and pastries!

This beautifully crafted story is packed to the rafters full of drama, mystery, love, family,  yummy hot beverages and pastries!!! I adored reading this story so very much, I really didn’t want it to end. I will highly recommend The Second Chance Café in Carlton Square to you lovely readers you won’t be disappointed!! Miss Lilly I love your writing style and can’t wait to read more of your work!

Marie’s Book Boutique gives The Second Chance Café in Carlton Square by Lilly Bartlett a massive 5 sparkly stars!!!!!!!!!

5stars

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Review on The Turtle Run By Marie Evelyn

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About the author’s (as seen on Facebook page)

Marie- The turtle Run

Marie Evelyn is the pen name of mother- daughter writing partnership of Marie Gameson and Margot Gameson nee Evelyn.

Margot Gameson was born in St Kitts in 1933 and worked as a journalist in Trinidad before moving to Barbados with her family in 1969. She witnessed many changes in the history of the island, including the tail end of colonialism, when any significant event ( from a royal visit to the arrival by boat of the Governor’s plumed hat.) would merit firing the cannons, which would have all the stray dogs in the vicinity howling. Her interest in the Redlegs partly came about through family connections and also by witnessing a scene in Barbados ( described in the book) of coming across barefooted, flaxen-haired children struggling to carry buckets from a standpipe.

Her elder daughter. Marie Gameson, was born in Trinidad in 1963 and spent a happy childhood in Barbados, largely making dens in sugarcane fields and writing stories about children lost in sugarcane fields. The family moved to the UK in 1974.

Facebook: Marie Evelyn

Twitter: @marieevelyn1685

Publication Date: 14 January 2016 (ebook) Paperback 14 December 2015

Publisher: Accent Press

ISBN: (paperback) 978-1783753277

Pages: 244 Pages

Genre: Romance/ Historical

Copy provided by: author

Blurb ( as seen on Amazon)

She went in search of history and found her own future. Becky has lost her job and her direction in life so is thrilled when she gets the chance to research British rebel history I Barbados.

But the Caribbean paradise isn’t all that it seems. The old plantation house is beautiful but lonely, and the locals are unfriendly. As her research becomes an obsession, one of the rebel descendants, who still works the same land as his ancestors, begins to get a hold on her mind.

Is she living in a fantasy, or is this really an island of long memories? She soon finds that she is not the only on being led by the past…

My Review

51p30U0ygTL turtle run book cover

Before I start my review I would just like to say a huge thank you to the author’s Margot Gameson and Marie Gameson; for accepting my cheeky little request to read and provide and honest review on The Turtle Run on my blog, and providing me with a copy.

The book cover as you can see is so charming; with the pale green backing, which I feel really helps the plantation house stand out. I adore the cheerful lashes flowers and foliage which provides a delicate and romantic feel to it. The gold of the author’s name and the purple/pink of the title really accompany each other. All in all I find it to be very alluring and is defiantly a cover I want to just jump into.

The Turtle Run by Marie Evelyn is packed full of mystery, drama, history, culture and romance on every single page; which makes for a totally in-put downable book.

We meet poor Becky; a journalist in Essex as she looses her job; but she soon get an offer of an amazing new job in the stunning Barbados. The job offer comes from the elderly Bajan lady Clara. Clara wants Becky to research and help write a book on the ‘ Redlegs’ of the men who were defeated in the Monmouth rebellion in 1685. This on all accounts I really found fascinating to read as I had no idea of this. Becky has a connection to Barbados herself; with her father who left her, her mother and her brother to live there. Becky’s mother has given her and her brother very little about the whole thing. It goes without saying her mother isn’t that keen for her to go, but her brother feels differently about it and she even finds her brother interested in the ‘Redlegs’. Becky and her brother thinks this could be good chance to find out more and help them both find some closure.

Mathew; Clara’s son and Becky’s relationship is one of miss judged and grows into something special when they get to know each other properly. It’s not without its rocky patches! I really enjoyed their spark they had together giving the chance for the reader to spot this before the characters realise!

I really enjoyed the way the story was intelligently crafted, providing twists and turns as the story goes on. The author’s description of Barbados which was wonderful and evocative, making me feel like I was their in the paradise that is Barbados; which on all accounts makes for a great summer read. I found all the characters to be just as engaging as each other which again gives the reader a connection while they read.

So I think you guessed by know that I’m going to highly, highly recommend this perfectly crafted story which will surly having you turning those pages.

Marie’s Book Boutique gives The Turtle Run By Marie Evelyn a wonderful 5 sparkly stars!!!!!!

5stars