Summer at the Santorini Bookshop - Rebecca Raisin

 

A Greek island holiday. A fake-dating pact. A chance at true love?

After losing her job as a book scout, hopeless romantic Evie needs a fresh start. So when she hears that her eccentric grandmother has just taken on a small bookshop in Santorini, Evie jumps at the chance to visit her.

But life on the island is not as idyllic as it first seems. Gran has a tempestuous relationship with her landlord and he’s threatening to take the bookshop away from her. So when Gran asks Evie to fake a romance with her landlord’s Greek God of a grandson, Georgios, to keep the family on side, she reluctantly agrees.

As the sun sets on Evie’s Greek holiday, can she save the bookshop – and fake date her way to love?

Purchase Links

US: amzn.to/40rvToW

UK: amzn.to/3u4QJOY

Aust: amzn.to/3QOc6x1

My Review:

Sunshine, books, a dreamy love interest? What more could any book lover need – Summer at the Santorini Bookshop is a brilliant way of escaping the not-so-great weather here.

Rebecca Raisin always gives us a great read, brilliant characters and excellent settings and this one couldn’t sound more idyllic. I loved the descriptions of the bookshop, the characters are funny but also relatable in many ways. The bookshop sounds like my perfect holiday destination!

Evie suddenly finds herself at a loose end when she loses her job and so is sent to keep an eye on her Gran, who is on husband number nine and a cause for concern (to Evie’s Mum and sister). Evie finds herself in quite the situation as soon as she arrives and is determined to do all it takes to support her Gran – even if that means getting close to Georgios (the landlords grandson).

With some ups and downs, can Evie keep her Grans antics from her Mum as well as make the bookshop a success and keep Georgios onside whilst also figuring out what she actually wants to do next.

There are some really funny moments, the man with the donkey, the rescue dogs, the subtle hints about what happens to each husband.

Funny, heartwarming and entertaining. Perfect read for this summer, whether on a glorious beach or from a comfy chair!

 Author Bio:

 Rebecca Raisin writes heartwarming romance from her home in sunny Perth, Australia. Her heroines tend to be on the quirky side and her books are usually set in exotic locations so her readers can armchair travel any day of the week. The only downfall about writing about gorgeous heroes who have brains as well as brawn, is falling in love with them – just as well they’re fictional. Rebecca aims to write characters you can see yourself being friends with. People with big hearts who care about relationships and believe in true, once in a lifetime love. Her bestselling novel Rosie’s Travelling Tea Shop has been optioned for film with MRC studios and Frolic Media.

Social Media Links –

https://www.facebook.com/RebeccaRaisinAuthor

www.twitter.com/jaxandwillsmum

https://www.instagram.com/rebeccaraisinwrites2/

https://signup.harpercollins.co.uk/join/signup-hq-rebeccaraisin

Finding Friends at the Cornish Country Hospital - Jo Bartlett

 

A fresh beginning…

Esther Hamilton, is finally finding her feet after her split with her horrible ex, and is looking forward to her new single life. She has a job she loves in the busy Accident and Emergency department, a new home and for the first time ever, a chance to just have fun with her good friends. Love is very much off the cards…

An old friend…

Until the arrival of Joe Carter – the brother of Esther’s best friend, Danni. Joe is also newly single and still as gorgeous as ever, but Esther can’t lose her heart to Joe. If it all went wrong, she’d lose two of her best friends.

A second chance at love?

But working together over a troubled patient, the connection between them is undeniable. And when Esther's parents' marriage hits trouble, Joe is there for her, offering her support, and Esther knows she's fallen hard.

Are they brave enough to take a risk on love, or are they destined to remain friends forever?

Purchase Link - https://mybook.to/friendshospitalsocial

My Review:

As a fully fledged fan of Jo Bartlett books, I couldn’t wait to return to The Cornish Country Hospital for the second book in her latest series. Whist I am a lover of reading a series in order where possible, you could happily read this as a standalone ( I do recommend all books by Jo anyway though!)

This time we focus on Esther and how she is coping following her recent break up from (the awful) cheating Lucas. As she is Danni’s best friend we also get to see how her romance with Charlie is progressing from the first book in the series.

I love Esther’s characters, I did in book one and even more so now. She’s lucky to be near family, but doesn’t necessarily see that things are not exactly rosy there either. Caroline, Esther’s Mum, was looking forward to having a fun filled retirement with her husband, but he no longer seems bothered by her or anything she tries to do.

We also meet Joe, Danni’s brother, who sounds swoon worthy in every way. He and Esther have always got along but Esther has always fancied him, could a close friendship be in jeopardy if romance takes hold?

Fantastic, as always. I loved finding out more about each character, they have ups and downs, things aren’t smooth sailing for anyone. A traumatic event brings Esther and Joe closer together, but in her eagerness to help others Esther also puts herself at risk.

A engaging story about friendship, kindness and being there for those you love. Things are not always going to be simple but with some support you can make your way through any difficulty. It has brilliant storylines, drama, tension, romance as well as humour at times (Good old Gwen!)

I really like this new hospital setting and look forward to reading what’s next. 

Author Bio:

Jo Bartlett was born a stone’s throw from the English Channel and still lives near the sea in Kent. Jo has had numerous bestsellers in the UK, Australia and Canada, including a UK Top 10. Since joining Boldwood Books in 2021, Jo has had a further eight bestselling novels in The Cornish Midwife series.

Social Media Links:

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/J_B_Writer 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jo_bartlett123/

Newsletter Sign Up: https://bit.ly/JoBartlettNews

BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/jo-bartlett

The Clarks Factory Girls at War - May Ellis

 

Can love blossom in times of trouble?

Life-long friends Louisa, Jeannie and Kate are following in the footsteps of their families, working at the Clarks shoe factory.

But when Britain declares war on Germany, the Somerset village of Street is shaken to its core. The Clarks factory is at the heart of life in the village, but the Clark family are Quakers and pacifists. Before long, there are fierce debates amongst the workers and tensions between those who oppose the war and those who believe the village men should go to fight.

Each of the girls must decide her own position but as brothers and sweethearts leave for France, Louisa is relieved that her sweetheart Mattie, a Quaker, who won’t be signing up. But she’ll soon find that they face fierce opposition at home as well as across the Channel.

Will the girls’ friendship be enough to keep them together, as everything around them falls apart?

A heartwarming and gripping new saga series perfect for fans of Elaine Everest and Rosie Clarke.

Purchase Link - https://mybook.to/clarksfactorysocial

My Review:

As a fan of a good historical saga, especially set around war times, I was intrigued by this especially as I haven’t read anything from this author before.

I have to admit, even with as much reading as I do, and being a history fan, I had limited knowledge of the Quakers (Friends) and their ideas around war (life). I love reading a story that gives me something to learn as well as entertaining.

Clarks is such a well known name, this was also something that had grabbed my attention initially. Reading about the community it created within the workplace, and the wider area was also interesting even though the characters are fictional.

At first, I struggled with the book, I found it a little slow going but it did pick up pace as it progressed. The characters are nice and likeable. Louisa, Jeannie, and Kate become firm friends through their work despite coming from different backgrounds.

There are many strands to the storyline, and as this is the first in a series, I presume we will see how each develop over the coming books.

A historical glimpse into factory and community life at this time, it references believes and ideas at the time which may surprise readers to learn, highlighting the issues with inequalities in gender, age, religious beliefs etc.

An interesting start to this series!

Author Bio:

Alison lives in Somerset, within sight of Glastonbury Tor, volunteering at her local library and for the Alfred Gillett Trust (custodians of the Clark’s archives). Her first book, a contemporary romance, was published in 2014. Since then she has had five more novels published, including another romance and a YA time travel adventure. Her current series, based on the factory workers at Clark’s Shoes was inspired by her move to the area and her love of social history (and the treasure trove in the archives!).

Social Media Links –  

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alison.knight.942

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Alison_Knight59

Lean On Me - Beth Moran

 

Lean On Me

From No. 1 bestselling author Beth Moran comes a story about family, friendship and community.

As Faith tries on her future mother-in-law’s wedding dress in preparation for her own wedding, her tears are not of joy. The hideous frock is nicknamed ‘The Ghost Web’ by Faith’s best friend Marilyn, who can’t understand why Faith would even consider wearing it. But there’s a lot Marilyn doesn’t know about Faith – not the least of which is that Faith is just the latest of the names she has called herself.

Faith and her brother Sam survived a traumatic childhood which included having to change their names to hide from the past, but surviving has left scars. Faith’s generous fiancé Perry doesn’t just promise to be a partner, he offers freedom and security, and enough kindness to keep Faith squashing down any doubts on what ‘being in love’ really means.

It’s not until she meets an extraordinary group of women at the Grace Chapel choir, that things start to become crystal clear. As choir-leader extraordinaire, the indomitable Hester, holds a mirror up to her ragtag group of singers, all with their own burdens and insecurities, and teaches them to see how magnificent they are, so Faith can dare to dream of a future where she and Sam can stop running and she might even be ready to accept the love that she deserves.

Number 1 bestselling author Beth Moran is back with her trademark ingredients of wisdom and warmth, heartbreak and hearts soaring. Perfect for fans of Jill Mansell, Philippa Ashley and Jenny Colgan.

Purchase Link - https://mybook.to/leanonmesocial

My Review:

I have enjoyed Beth Moran’s books previously; all have been well written, interesting, and often culminate in a story with deep, meaningful themes alongside moments of light relief. Quite a combination to pull together but Beth Moran does so successfully every time. Also helps they are set locally too. 

Lean on Me was a good read, interesting characters, descriptive settings that really triggered my imagination.

Faith’s history was tough to learn about, so much hurt and pain, coupled with the difficulties and support she needed to provide for her brother. No wonder she sought out stability, someone that could be solid and dependable. I enjoyed her friendship with Marilyn – everyone needs a Marilyn – but also the blossoming friendships formed via the choir; for me that was the best part of the story, more so than any romantic element. Everyone in the choir was in need of something, some support or a way of empowering themselves and together as a unit they discovered was the best way of doing that.

There are some awfully sad times within this story which I don’t think I was prepared for but there are some funny, lighter hearted moments thanks to the choir’s antics that provide some balance.

Including themes of addiction, abuse and violence, this is book that explores types of relationships, family we have and family we choose, it incorporates grief, love and being true to yourself.

An eye opening, heartachingly difficult read that will take you through many emotions. Would recommend! 

Author Bio:

Beth Moran initially worked as a biochemist and then taught antenatal classes before becoming an author. She loves to write contemporary women’s fiction set in and around Sherwood Forest, where she lives with her family.

Social Media Links:

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/bethcmoran

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bethmoranauthor/

Newsletter Sign Up: https://bit.ly/BethMoranNews 

Bookbub profile: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/beth-moran

Can You Keep a Secret? - Jo Lovett

 

One New Year’s Eve, Georgie James and her friends come up with a genius plan to help them stick to their resolutions… They all write down secrets, seal them in envelopes and then post them to each other. The secrets will be revealed at the end of the year if they haven’t kept their resolutions.

It’s perfect. Except…

Georgie's secret is BIG... and revealing it could destroy their friendships. She has no idea why she chose that one to write down. There are plenty of innocent things she could have said – even admitting she finds newcomer Raf incredibly annoying would have been better.

What she does know is that there’s no way she can let her secret be revealed. Which means she needs to keep her (nightmare) resolutions and, most importantly, get her envelope back before anyone can open it. Which, given she sent her secret to Raf, means spending a lot more time with him than she’d choose to...

A heartwarming romantic comedy for fans of Beth O’Leary and Mhairi McFarlane

Purchase Link - https://mybook.to/keepasecretsocial

My Review:

Can you keep a secret? By Jo Lovett was entertaining and a thoroughly enjoyable read. It includes secrets& lies obviously, but is a story of second chances, righting wrongs, fixing friendship issues and romance – whether that is rekindling it or starting something new.

A drunken plan to share secrets as an incentive to complete resolutions leads to a lot of drama; shocking secrets are out there that could have damaging repercussions. Georgie regrets writing her secret down and sets about getting it back no matter what, she knows it can change the lives of many of those she holds dear. Her plan is to get close to Raf and retrieve it but as with most things, secrets will have a way of coming out no matter what.

I enjoyed the storyline, found it to be original and entertaining. The characters are interesting, each bringing something different to the story. It is emotional at times, I felt for Poppy especially – she has a lot of information to take in at a time where she is struggling herself. I was desperate to see a happy resolution for all but especially for her.

Romance is never far away and it was nice to see Georgie find someone who could put her first for once.

A light hearted, read that entertains and surprises. I didn’t know what to expect but was pleasantly surprised. Would recommend for those who are fans of a rom-com. 

Author Bio:

Jo Lovett writes heart-warming, feel-good romcoms. Her latest book, Another Time, Another Place, published by Boldwood, was released in August 2023. Jo was runner-up in the Good Housekeeping/ Orion First Novel Competition 2018 and shortlisted for the Comedy Women in Print Award 2019.

Social Media Links:  

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100067294912972

Twitter: https://twitter.com/JoLovettWrites

Newsletter Sign Up: https://bit.ly/JoLovettNews

Bookbub profile: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/jo-lovett

A Villa with a View - Julie Caplin

 

Escape to the Amalfi Coast and feel the warmth of the Italian sun on your face, hear the sound of the turquoise waves crashing on the beach and fall in love with a new enemies to lovers romance!

Lia Bathurst had always dreamed of escaping to the white sandy beaches and turquoise blue seas of the Amalfi coast – but that dream hadn’t included meeting her real father. A father she had never even known about until a few weeks ago! Yet here she was, standing outside the gates of a gorgeous pink villa being refused entry by the insufferable – and insufferably handsome – Raphael Knight, her father’s business manager.

When an old black and white photo proves Lia’s claim to be true, Raph is determined to make sure this stranger, with her long caramel waves and infectious smile, doesn’t have an ulterior motive. Even if that means not letting her out of his sight.

As temperatures rise, and not just from the heat of the Mediterranean sun, could Lia and Raph’s forced proximity lead to something more like… amore?

Purchase Link - https://bit.ly/47kOw0a

My Review:

Julie Caplin, oh how I adore the books you bring us! As a long-time fan, I eagerly await each one, anticipating glorious settings, warm, likeable characters, emotional storylines and always some mouthwatering foods and drink references.

I always want these books to last as long as possible but I cannot help but get so engrossed in the story I read through it in no time.  

A Villa with A View blew me away; I wanted to be right there, glorious location, weather and in the heart of a loving, busy family. The characters, well, could Aurelia get any more wonderful; welcoming, generous, a sprinkling of mischievous matchmaking and everything you’d want from a long-lost fathers wife! Ernesto is a funny character, the heart of the family, cheeky, charming and not at all what you would expect from someone so famous.

 Lia is our leading character, she’s had life changing news, it questions everything she is and knows. The time away is meant to put space between her and the family she thinks have lied to her for her whole life. I love her, she’s fierce and willing to stand up to anyone, no matter who they are or how much they push back.

A quick mention for Leo, what a lovely guy, more of him please! He clearly holds on to some heartbreak but manages to bring a smile to those around him.

I was on an emotional rollercoaster, I desperately wanted Lia to find the answers she needed whilst realising the power of love, both from those who are your family and the romantic kind. I have to admit, I shed a little tear at the part Lia was speaking with her Dad.. it takes a lot for me to cry but the emotion just pours from the page.

As always I was rooting for the romance, Lia and Raph have an instant spark, although they fight hard against it for quite some time. Both are passionate, both care deeply and think they know best; they have met their match in each other.

I could rave on and on… I loved it. I cannot recommend it enough for anyone looking for a brilliant, sun shine filled read. Those who love to travel via their comfy chairs will love A Villa with a View.

I look forward to the next one Julie 😊

Author Bio :

Julie Caplin, formerly a PR director, swanned around Europe for many years taking top food and drink writers on press trips (junkets) sampling the gastronomic delights of various cities in Italy, France, Belgium, Spain, Copenhagen and Switzerland. It was a tough job but someone had to do it. 

These trips have provided the inspiration and settings for the highly successful Romantic Escapes series which have hit the best seller charts in Italy, Germany and the Czech Republic and have sold over two million copies worldwide.

The first book in the nine strong series,The Little Café in Copenhagen, was shortlisted for a Romantic Novel of the Year Award.

Social Media Links – @JulieCaplin Twitter

https://www.facebook.com/JulieCaplinAuthor/

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/juliecaplinauthor/

Living The Dream at Puddleduck Farm - Della Galton

 

Life would be idyllic if everyone else was on the same page…

Puddleduck Vets Practice is busier than ever.
Phoebe Dashwood is juggling the usual crazy animal antics of her quirky clients, whilst organising the wedding of her bridezilla grandmother and thankfully dating her perfect man.

Phoebe loves every minute of being a New Forest vet, even if she hardly has time to catch her breath. If only she could find some quality time for her and the man of her dreams, life would be perfect.

When an ex’s heartbreak stirs up some emotions from the past, Phoebe realises she must deal with some unfinished business. It would seem a miracle is needed to pull off a happy ending for everyone – but is it within Phoebe's power to work miracles?

Purchase Link - https://mybook.to/PuddleduckFarmSocial

My Review:
The third book of this series, the grand finale some my say. I’d recommend reading the previous books before this one as it ties up loose ends and clears up situations from the previous book.

I must admit I wasn’t keen on the romantic developments in the last book, I didn’t really see the connection other than being best friends. It was obvious Sam adored Phoebe, but she wasn’t overly sure, and it took some time. Personally, I thought she was settling for someone she knew loved her rather than actually feeling it herself. I’m not actually fully convinced even after this book, but I do like all the characters  and it’s nice to read stories that have positive endings.

We catch up with everyone throughout the book and see how their story plays out. We even see Rufus going through some emotional ups and downs and discovering support in the most unexpected place, he finally finds what he needs and it definitely comes with a bigger surprise than any of us expected.

I enjoy Dellas storytelling, it is well paced and keeps you entertained from start to finish. I have always enjoyed the inclusion of animals and their antics, and this time was no different.

A lovely way to end the series! 

Author Bio:

Della Galton writes short stories, teaches writing groups and is Agony Aunt for Writers Forum Magazine. She lives in Dorset.

Social Media Links –  

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

Twitter https://twitter.com/DellaGalton

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dellagalton/

Newsletter Sign Up: http://bit.ly/DellaGaltonNewsletter

Bookbub profile: Della Galton Books - BookBub