Finding Love at the Magical Curiosity Shop

Finding Love at the Magical Curiosity Shop

In a shop full of stories, some magic is real.

Mickey Teasdale loves her quaint curiosity shop, where every item feels magical to her. She loves imagining the past owners of her knick-knacks and telling her made-up tales to customers, but lately, the magic has dimmed; the shop feels cluttered, and even her stories seem as worn as the items she sells.

Everything changes when the grumpiest customer Mickey’s ever met—single dad Ren Montague—walks in with his surly teen daughter, Ava. Ren hates mess and clutter and prefers order and calm, but he'll do anything to see Ava smile. Yet, something shifts in him when he meets Mickey, who seems like she stepped out of her very own fairy tale.

When Ava discovers a secret diary, hidden from years long ago, she and Mickey believe it must have once belonged to a real-life mermaid! Ever sceptical, Ren tries to protect Ava from disappointment, but as they unravel the mystery together, something special happens…

Ren learns that happy ever afters still exist if you're brave enough to look for them, and Mickey discovers that real-life can sometimes be way more magical than anything she could have ever imagined.

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

My Review:

There’s always something uniquely magical about Jaimie’s books, especially this Ever After Series and this did not disappoint.

From searching for mermaids, handsome princes and potential happily ever afters, this has it all.

Mickey loves her shop of curiosities, but it has got a bit out of control, her link to her Dad the shop is her passion but it isnt exactly doing as well as it should. Single Dad Ren and daughter Ava find themselves thrown into Mickeys world, and shop. Ren is guarded, gorgeous and not a great fan of all the nonsense in the shop that usually injures him in some way.

The discovery of an old diary builds up hope of finally having proof of mermaids, as they work together to uncover the truth they discover things about themselves too. Changes need to be made by all but not everyone is comfortable making them.

Gorgeously romantic, a modern fairytale! Adored the characters – even grumpy Ren – and who isn’t fascinated by mermaids. Lovely to catch up with the street and previous stories. Always look forward to a book by Jaimie, never disappoints!

Author Bio –

Jaimie Admans is the bestselling author of several romantic comedies – including The Little Christmas Shop on Nutcracker Lane and The Chateau of Happily-Ever-Afters. Her series for Boldwood, The Ever After Street Series, is based on the magical world of fairytales.

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Sunshine After the Rain - Jessica Redland

 

Sunshine After the Rain

Melanie knows she’s been running away…

For the last seven years Mel has been hiding; from life, from her friends and from those who love her the most - her family. But being at home in her beloved Lake District has been far too painful for Mel to contemplate. Because seven years ago, Mel lost everything and she’s never been able to banish the dark clouds that follow her.

But maybe there really is no place like home?

When Mel returns to Willowdale for a family event, she has no intention of staying. But surrounded by her family she begins to realise just how much she's been missing and also, how much healing she still needs to do.

Starting a dream job at Willowdale Hall, going on walks with Emma and her funny alpacas and reconnecting with those she loves, Mel slowly begins to see chinks of light and a more hopeful and happier future ahead.

And as Mel begins to feel stronger, she also feels brave enough to face the most painful part of leaving home…the one man she has always loved. With his help, can she finally banish the dark clouds forever and see the sunshine after the rain?

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

My Review:

Jessica Redland’s Sunshine After the Rain is a heartwarming addition to her Escape to the Lakes series. It is a gentle exploration of healing, family, and rediscovery. As always this story has the picturesque and special backdrop of the Lake District, we meet Mel who as she returns to her hometown of Willowdale after a seven-year absence, confronting past sorrows and embracing new beginnings.

Redland’s storytelling always captivates me as a reader, every book has drawn me in, made me love the characters and the community created. The wonderful depiction of Willowdale and its endearing locals make me wish I could be part of that world – get me to that quiz night!  Mel’s journey—from grief to hope—is portrayed with authenticity and sensitivity, making her both believable and inspiring. I was rooting for her from that start, hoping that she would find her way again. As it is the next in a series it was lovely to catch up with past characters and storylines, you could read this as a standalone but it’s lovely to know what’s happened in more detail. Loved the inclusion of  alpaca walks and catching up with how previous romances were blossoming.

Well written and paced carefully to replicate Mel’s slow and steady change, I feel nothing was rushed and that just added emotionally to key moments throughout. Overall, Sunshine After the Rain is a comforting read that celebrates the resilience of the human spirit and the power of returning home and being around those who know us best. The book is emotional, heart-breaking and warming at the same time.  Fans of Redland’s previous works will appreciate this uplifting tale that reminds us of the sunshine that can follow even the darkest storms.

Author Bio:

Jessica Redland is the million-copy bestselling author of novels, including the Hedgehog Hollow and Escape to the Lakes series. Inspired by her hometown of Scarborough and the Lake District, she writes uplifting women’s fiction of love, friendship and community.

Social Media Links:

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A Greek Island Gift - Mandy Baggot

 

A Greek Island Gift

An unexpected gift… A home in paradise?

When Molly Adams finds out she’s inherited an apartment in Kassiopi, Corfu, she’s left thinking there must be some mistake. She doesn’t know anyone in Greece at all.

But when she arrives there’s a shock. Molly hasn’t inherited a whole apartment, it’s only 50%. But there’s more - she’s also inherited 50% of a boat, 50% of an olive tree and… 25% of a cat.

Christos Baros is coming home to Corfu for the summer. A self-made entrepreneur, owning three gyms in Athens, he has no need for half an apartment, half a boat, half an olive tree or a quarter of a cat, but he knows these things are important to his mother.

Molly and Christos’s worlds collide in a whirlwind and the irresistible charm of the Greek island draws them even closer together. But as they uncover the secrets of their shared inheritance, will they discover that sometimes, sharing what you never wanted can lead to exactly what you need?

This summer, join Molly and Christos in Corfu as they try to work out if one shared Greek gift will turn into a shared future. Perfect for fans of Sue Moorcroft and Jenny Colgan.

My Review:

Mandy Baggo

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

t’s A Greek Island Gift is a sun-drenched delight that transports readers straight to the heart of Corfu. With her blend of humour, heartfelt emotion, and vivid storytelling, Baggot h a tale as given us a story will strike a chord with many whilst being a fun, escapist read.

The story follows Molly and Christos, two strangers brought together by an unexpected inheritance. As they navigate the complexities of their shared legacy, their journey unfolds amidst the wonderful (and highly desirable) backdrop of Greek island life. It is so descriptive at times, I swear you can almost feel the Mediterranean breeze added to the food descriptions enough to make any mouth water, I was soon dreaming of being right there.  

The characters in this book are a charming array , from the endearing locals to the quirky animals at the sanctuary, each figure adds depth and charm to the narrative. The slow-burning romance between the protagonists is both believable and captivating, making their eventual connection all the more satisfying.

A Greek Island Gift is more than just a romantic escape; it’s a story about second chances, self-discovery, and the unexpected gifts life can offer. Whether you’re lounging on a beach or curled up at home, this novel promises a heartwarming escape to sunnier climes.

Author Bio:

Mandy Baggot is an international bestselling and award-winning romance writer represented by Tanera Simons of Greenstone Literary.

Mandy is best-known for her laugh-out-loud romantic comedies featuring strong heroines, gorgeous heroes and always that happy-ever-after!

The winner of the Innovation in Romantic Fiction award at the UK's Festival of Romance, her novel, One Wish in Manhattan, was also shortlisted for the Romantic Novelists' Association Romantic Comedy Novel of the Year award in 2016. In 2024, Mandy's novel, Desperately Seeking Summer became a Hallmark Original Movie entitled A Greek Recipe for Romance.

Mandy loves the Greek island of Corfu where she has a home. She also loves wine, cheese, Netflix, handbags and horse racing. Also a singer, she has taken part in ITV1's Who Dares Sings and The X-Factor. Most recently, Mandy took part in BBC1's Ready Steady Cook with Greek celebrity chef, Akis Petretzikis.

Mandy is a member of the Society of Authors and splits her time between living in Wiltshire, UK and Corfu, Greece.

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Playing for Keeps in Starr's Fall - Kate Hewitt

 

Playing for Keeps in Starr's Fall

Spring is in the air in Starr’s Fall, and for two people, love may be just a roll of the dice away…

As the frozen earth gives way to the first spring crocuses, pushing their way into the warmer air, Maggie arrives in Starr’s Fall. She’s looking for a new start, with her lovable but painfully shy teenaged son in tow.

It feels like the odds are against her, but she’s determined to come out winning this time, and to fulfil her dream of opening up a board game café. But not everything’s a game, and when she finds herself attracted to a man who’s known as a different sort of player, she worries she’s setting herself up to lose.

Zach is funny, surprisingly geeky, and, most importantly, bonds with her son. But Zach is also drop-dead gorgeous, has a reputation around town, and is also ten years younger than her.

When he asks her out on a date, Maggie is totally thrown. She can’t deny she’s attracted to him. But is she ready to risk her heart with another roll of the dice?

A totally gorgeous, unmissable, small town romance, perfect for fans of the Gilmore Girls and Virgin River, from million-copy bestselling author, Kate Hewitt.

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

My Review:

Playing for Keeps in Starr's Fall by Kate Hewitt is a heartfelt and compelling romance that blends small-town charm with deep emotional themes. The novel follows Maggie, a dedicated single mother, and Zach , good looking local with quite a reputation. Both are searching for a change and when their paths cross both find they start to open up to love and healing.

Hewitt excels at crafting complex, relatable characters with real-world struggles. Maggie is a strong and determined protagonist, balancing motherhood and personal sacrifice, doing all she can to make sure her son is happier and more secure. She has made the decision to uproot them to this small, local community and open a games café – with risks surrounding every decision she’s made, Maggie is determined this will work. Zach is tired of not being taken seriously, everyone having opinions including his own sister; meeting Maggie and her son starts things in motion that has things changing. Their chemistry is believable, and their slow-burn romance develops in a natural, touching way that keeps readers invested.

The backdrop of Starr's Fall, with its welcoming community and scenic beauty, enhances the story's cosy, small-town atmosphere. Hewitt also weaves in themes of family, self-worth, and resilience, adding depth to the romance.

While the story follows some familiar romance tropes, Hewitt’s excellent character development and emotional depth elevate the story beyond a typical love tale. The secondary characters add to the narrative, making the town of Starr's Fall feel like a place you'd want to return to. If you have read the first book you will enjoy catching up with already well loved characters.

Overall, Playing for Keeps in Starr's Fall is a beautifully written, emotional romance that will appeal to fans of small-town love stories and strong character-driven narratives. It's a heartwarming read with just the right mix of warmth, personal growth, and love.

Author Bio:

Kate Hewitt is the author of many novels of both historical and contemporary fiction. Her novels have been called 'unputdownable' and 'the most emotional book I have ever read' by readers.

An American ex-pat for many years, she now lives in New Jersey with her husband, two of her five children (the others are scattered across the globe!), and their two Golden Retrievers. Join her newsletter to receive updates and giveaways, or be part of her Facebook groups Kate's Reads, to discuss all manner of books. (Links can be found on her website.

Her latest releases are The Girl Who Risked it All, a WW2 novel based on the true story of the doomed refugee ship the St Louis, The Midnight Hour, the second in her dystopian series Lost Lake, and Playing for Keeps in Starr's Fall, the second standalone in her new heartwarming series inspired by the Gilmore Girls. There's something for everyone so do check them all out, and be in touch as Kate loves to hear from readers. You can discuss Kate's books as well as others on her private Facebook group, Kate's Reads or read her thoughts on Substack.

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Just the Beginning - Sarah Bennett

 

Just the Beginning

Everyone in Halfmoon Quay, the picture-perfect village clinging to the edge of the Cornish coast, knows Rick Penrose is the person to turn to for help.

Friendly and reliable, not to mention drop-dead gorgeous, he’ll do anything for anyone. When his teenage crush Anya moves back to the quay for a fresh start, he has the perfect solution. She needs a job and his great uncle needs help to run his hotel. It’s a win-win.

Following the death of her husband, Anya Stokes discovered everything about her life was a lie. Without her beautiful home and the luxuries she took for granted, Anya and her daughter, Freya, have no choice but to move in with her aunt and uncle in Halfmoon Quay.

As she begins to turn her life around, Anya realises the perfect man might have been right under her nose all the time. But there’s a fine line between helping and taking over and Rick doesn’t always know where it is. Then Anya discovers he’s been keeping things from her and it’s like the past is repeating itself…

Head to the glorious Cornish coast with bestseller Sarah Bennett for this unashamedly heartwarming and uplifting read. Perfect for all fans of Cathy Bramley, Katie Fforde and Phillipa Ashley.

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

My Review:

Just the Beginning by Sarah Bennett is a heartwarming and delightful romance that captures the charm of small-town life and the beauty of second chances. Set in the picturesque seaside Halfmoon Quay, this is the first in a new series by the author and is the story of Anya, who, after a series of setbacks, returns to her childhood home to rebuild her life and her heart.

Bennett’s writing is warm and engaging, effortlessly pulling readers into the community and its vibrant characters. Anya is a relatable protagonist, dealing with life’s challenges with a mix of vulnerability and strength, making her journey feel authentic.

Being back in her childhood community means she’s surrounded with familiar friends and old faces, her connection with Rick is instant and it’s clear their chemistry will only lead to one thing. The romance is well-paced, full of sweet moments and undeniable chemistry but entirely believable and I was rooting for the pair of them from the start. The supporting cast of quirky, loveable townspeople adds so much to the book and I cannot wait to hear more about them as this series continues.

What I particularly enjoyed about Just the Beginning was its focus on family, friendships, and personal growth, alongside the romance. While the plot may be slightly predictable and follows a familiar but well-loved trope, Bennett’s skillful storytelling and emotional depth make it more than just a formulaic romance. The book delivers feel-good moments, along with some poignant reflections on loss, healing, and the importance of taking chances. I know picking up a book by Sarah Bennett will leave me feeling happy and full of heart.

Just the Beginning is a delightful, feel-good read that’s perfect for anyone looking for a comforting escape. Sarah Bennett once again proves she knows how to craft a sweet romance with heart, leaving readers smiling by the end. If you're a fan of small-town love stories with a strong sense of community, this book is definitely worth your time.

Author Bio:

Sarah Bennett has been reading for as long as she can remember. Raised in a family of bookworms, her love affair with books of all genres has culminated in the ultimate Happy Ever After – getting to write her own stories to share with others.

Born and raised in a military family, she is happily married to her own Officer (who is sometimes even A Gentleman). Home is wherever he lays his hat, and life has taught them both that the best family is the one you create from friends as well as relatives.

When not reading or writing, Sarah is a devotee of afternoon naps and sailing the high seas, but only on vessels large enough to accommodate a casino and a choice of restaurants.

 Social Media Links: 

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Death at the Village Chess Club - Debbie Young

 

Death at the Village Chess Club

With her Curiosity Shop open for business, Alice Carroll is finally settling into life in the picturesque Cotswold village of Little Pride. But then her old life comes knocking… Alice’s ex boyfriend, Steven, who dumped her to travel the world, has run out of money and asks Alice to sell off his collection of chess sets.

Alice decides to host a tournament to showcase the boards, and her plan seems to be working. That is, until chess pieces begin to mysteriously disappear. And when a body is discovered outside the tournament, Alice realises that the victim was a pawn in another, far more dangerous game.

As the host of the event, Alice is eager to help the police investigate. She doesn’t know why anyone would be interested in stealing random chess pieces, let alone willing to kill for them, but she’s determined to find out. Can she solve the case before someone else gets hurt?

Or will this be one gambit too far for Alice?

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

My Review:

Debbie Young’s Death at the Village Chess Club is a delightful cosy mystery set in the picturesque Cotswold village of Wendlebury Barrow. Having enjoyed the first book in this series by Debbie Young, I was looking forward to this as I thoroughly enjoyed the quaint world of village life and wonderfully eclectic characters we’d met previously. It may be a small, close-knit community but an awful lot seems to happen, this time we have what should be a harmless chess club that becomes the place of intrigue and a sudden, shocking death.

The story kicks off when a member of the village chess club collapses mid-game, leaving the villagers puzzled as to whether it was a natural death or something more sinister. Enter Sophie Sayers, the ever-curious amateur sleuth, who, with her warmth and wit, quickly immerses herself in solving the mystery. As Sophie unravels the secrets of the club members, we see what makes each character tick and why they each have their own hidden motives.

I enjoy the mix of humour, intrigue and light-hearted storytelling. The mystery itself is well-paced, with enough twists to keep readers guessing without being overly complicated or hard to keep track. While the plot doesn’t take many dark turns, it’s the atmosphere of community, gentle humour, and Sophie's amateur detective work that make the book an enjoyable and cosy

Fans of the cosy mystery genre will love this book as it provides exactly the kind of light-hearted escapism that’s perfect for a relaxing afternoon. Although it is the second in the series and I highly recommend the first - Death at the Old Curiosity Shop – you could read as a standalone.

Death at the Village Chess Club is a heartwarming and clever whodunit that fans of Debbie Young and cosy village mysteries will thoroughly enjoy , filled with charm, humour, and a good dose of intrigue.

Author Bio:

Debbie Young writes warm, witty, feel-good contemporary fiction inspired by life in the English village where she lives with her Scottish husband and their teenage daughter.

Her Sophie Sayers Village Mystery series begins with "Best Murder in Show" and the first seven books run the course of a calendar year in the life of a classic English Cotswold village. Originally intended to be a seven-book series, further books will follow, due to reader demand.

She also writes the romantic comedy mystery series, Staffroom at St Bride's, set in the staffroom of an English girls' boarding school. The series will eventually be six books long, running the course of an academic year, and the first book is "Secrets at St Bride's".

Her books were shortlisted in 2020 and 2021 for The Selfies Award, given to the best self-published adult fiction in the UK.

She also writes short stories and has published three themed collections, "Marry in Haste", "Quick Change", and "Stocking Fillers", and had stories included in many anthologies.

 When she's not writing, she does other bookish things, such as speaking or reading her work at literary events, such as Crimefest, the leading international crime writing event, the Cheltenham Literature Festival and the Hawkesbury Upton Literature Festival, the event that she founded for her local community.

She's a member of the Society of Authors and the UK Ambassador for the Alliance of Independent Authors.

She loves reading, bellringing, singing in the local choir, gardening, knitting, sketching and travelling with her family in their camper van. Her many hobbies mean she is never short of ideas for her gentle tales of rural life.

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The Many Futures of Maddy Hart - Laura Pearson

 

The Many Futures of Maddy Hart

Suddenly Maddy is right there… in her very own future. And it’s all wrong, yet again.

It happens to her every time. When the kisses lead to the bedroom, just when she thinks she might have found the one… Just for a split second, Maddy disappears, and she finds that she’s living her own life. But ten years into the future.

She’s only there for a little while. But each time, it’s long enough to know that she doesn’t want to be any of those future versions of Maddy. Because every man she falls for seems to lead her to a future that is just… wrong.

Until she meets Oliver. And the vision of their future is happy. Beautiful even. A little girl runs around, her braids flying behind her, giggling about how she wants sausages for dinner. She has eyes just like Oliver’s.

There’s just one catch. If Maddy wants the family she’s seeing in her future with Oliver, she realizes she has to break his heart now…

Would you destroy your present if there’s a chance that it could give you the perfect future?

Perfect for fans of David Nicholls, Matt Haig, and The Husbands by Holly Gramazio. The most unmissable ‘what if?’ love story of the year!

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

My Review:

Laura Pearson’s The Many Futures of Maddy Hart is a beautifully written, thought-provoking read. The novel follows Maddy Hart, a woman whose life has been shaped by an unusual happening which leads to a series of pivotal moments and decisions, each of which has the potential to change her future in unexpected ways.

This book is different, but typical in what I expect from this author – I always know I will get a great, interesting take on things. The story delves into various possible futures for Maddy, each reflecting different paths she could take based on the choices she alone can make. This keeps the reader intrigued as they follow Maddy through alternate scenarios, each one offering a new perspective on her life and the consequences of her actions. It made me consider how I would respond in a similar situation and how it must weigh heavy on you all the time.

Maddy is a great character, she’s relatable and completely likeable. Maddy’s struggles, desires, and personal growth resonate with how everyone struggles and must learn as they work their way through life. The book also does an excellent job of exploring themes like regret, ambition, and the search for meaning in life, without ever feeling preachy or contrived.

Ultimately, The Many Futures of Maddy Hart is an insightful and poignant novel about the power of choices and the roadmaps of our lives. Pearson has created a story that is both heart-wrenching and uplifting, making it a brilliant read. Perfect for fans of character-driven stories. 

Author Bio:

Laura Pearson is the author of issues-based women’s fiction. She founded The Bookload on Facebook and has had several pieces published in the Guardian and the Telegraph.

Social Media Links –  

Facebook: @LauraPearson22

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Bookbub profile: @laurapearson22