Summer at the Little Wedding Shop - Jane Linfoot

Available on Amazon here 

Having only recently read (and loved) the first book in the Little Wedding Shop series – The Little Wedding Shop by the Sea, I was delighted to dive in and catch up with some of same characters I felt like I'd left behind. I often find myself missing characters and wondering how they get on and so getting a little glimpse into what is happening for them now is really a nice touch.

Although part of a series, these books can be read as a standalone. I have missed the second book (it’s on order at the library though so I will get my hands on it soon!)  but I don’t feel it matters too much. If you are reading this and have no previous knowledge of the other books you are quickly brought up to speed by JaneLinfoot, but not in such a way that you wouldn’t want to go back and read the ones you had missed. Summer at the Little Wedding Shop gives us Lilly - this time around it is her turn to take centre stage, but I was thrilled that the other girls I’d previously adored reading about still play a big part and are around to support our lead girl.

When the owner of Brides by the Sea offers Lily a job as their new wedding stylist she worries that she can’t rise to the challenge. Before she even gets chance to get used to her new role Kip Penryn hires her services he’s opened an exclusive wedding venue in direct competition to her friend Poppy. Lily feels like a traitor working for Kip, he has no idea what he is doing but is determined to succeed and everyone knows Penryn men are gorgeous but unreliable.
The thing I love most about these books is the characters Jane Linfoot creates for us. They are well written and very likable. You believe in their friendships and relationships, I for one wish I were part of their group. They do go through a lot and always have each other’s back, no matter what they are there for one another and in times of doubt they really do rally and ensure their friends happiness/success. I love all the women of Brides by the Sea and enjoy reading about their lives, which Jane Linfoot brings to us in a light-hearted and romantic way.

I must admit there were similarities between this (Lily’s story) and the one I previously read (Poppy’s story) BUT I didn’t particularly mind, it didn’t take anything away from my enjoyment of reading about Lily and how she was slowly overcoming personal issues to move forward (and yes even love again!).

Lily really has two romantic possibilities in Fred and Kip. I was dead against Fred from the start – I knew he wouldn’t be right for Lily at all, he didn’t have much appeal beyond the description of how attractive he appeared to be i.e. his six-pack. His general attitude and way he pursued Lily just made me switch off from him completely. At first I was also Anti-Kip. I’m certain it was intentional by the author though and throughout the book you see little chinks of his true character which makes you reevaluate and consider him as a love interest for our girl.

Our main girl - Lily is insecure about being able to do a good job, although she really is brilliantly creative and very confident in many ways. She can be rather spiky and not afraid of saying just what she thinks - well with certain people who rub her up the wrong way. Lily (just like the others) is always there for the people who need her and would try and move mountains to ensure everything works out well.

Jane Linfoot brings us into the Brides by The Sea world and give us lovable characters and well written and descriptive locations. This world is brought to life with enthusiasm that means you can’t help but root for them in their search for love and success.

I enjoyed this so much, I have ordered the ones I haven’t read yet at the library – I’m so keen to jump back into their stories ASAP. These are light hearted, fun and romantic tales and such a lovely read. Oh, and if you are sweet toothed like me , the descriptions of the wonderful cakes and treats available (via Poppy) will have you reaching for your very own slice.

Comfy Rating: 👍👍👍👍👍

The One We Fell In Love With - Paige Toon

Available here on Amazon 

I admit to be late in finding just how incredible Paige Toon books are. I have read a couple of her early offerings YEARS AND YEARS ago but recently bought a copy of ‘The last piece of my heart’ and I’m pretty much in book love with her, I'll even go as far as to say no book by Paige would disappoint. With that in mind, I took myself down to the library and got myself ‘The one we fell in love with.’

The story is told through identical triplets – Phoebe, Eliza and Rose. We look at their relationship -the advantages and more importantly, the disadvantages of growing up as being part of a three. We find that Phoebe is caught between a rock and a hard place, is it really her time to settle down and get married, or return to the French Alps to pursue her passion? Eliza is in love with someone who is no longer hers and the dream of becoming a musician seems to be getting further out of reach. Rose returns from London, no job and no boyfriend. To make matters worse, she’s been forced to move back in with her mother, will she find what her passion really is? Although identical, the sisters are all very different but  have one thing in common. Angus. He is the one they fell in love with.

To get straight to the point – I LOVED this book. From the first word to the last it had me hooked. It is difficult to write a thorough this review without giving away a lot of spoilers and I do not want to do that. Everyone should experience this book without knowing more than the basics.  I thoroughly advise that you DO NOT go looking for spoilers or any information – it will ruin such massive, pivotal moments of your reading experience.

Firstly, I loved each of the triplets - they all had their own qualities and styles but I probably preferred Phoebe and Rose. It was difficult to warm to Eliza at first, she had moments where you could see her vulnerability and I hoped that by the end I’d love her just as much (I kind of did). Paige Toon gave each character a distinctive, clear voice and it helped that the book was broken down into chapters for each girl, so it was easy to keep track and avoid confusion between them.
 
The introduction of Toby was an absolute blessing for me. Don’t get me wrong, I like Angus but he just exists within the book, he seems nice but I don’t know if he really lived up to the hype especially having three girls, sisters, in love with him – what made him SO special?  I did love Toby. His character, personality and his back story was just all in place to make me adore him and want him to be happy.

If you think this is going to be a typical book about women wanting the same man, you’d be wrong. It is more – deeper meanings and looking at the delicate but powerful bonds that bind us, it is such a touching story. Paige Toon has written a beautiful story, a really clever idea that sparks many emotions and may just make you shed a tear.

Comfy Rating: 👍👍👍👍👍

On a Beautiful Day - Lucy Diamond

Available here on Amazon 

I was very excited to spot ‘On a beautiful day’ in the library and loved that it was a 7 day chart topper – meaning I had to get it done and dusted as I can’t renew it. It wouldn’t ever take me that long to read a book I started but having already got Milly Johnson's ‘The Perfectly Imperfect Woman’ in my hands, could I rise to the challenge of two chart toppers?! (Silly question really)

‘On a Beautiful Day’ is set in Manchester and explores the unexpected turns life can take and how you must accept the bad along with the good. It shows how a person can face things bravely and find a way to survive when your world turns upside down.

We meet four friends enjoying a birthday lunch, all smiles and seemingly without problems but after they witness a shocking accident, each begins to unravel and it is clear all is not well in each of their lives.

We have Laura, a likable, married, career woman who has suffered miscarriages and is desperate to have a baby. The accident is the wake-up call to heed the ticking of her biological clock. Jo, a nurse, gets involved in the aftermath of the accident and strikes up a connection with one of the casualties. She is in the early stages of a new relationship and decides she has to seize the day and throw all caution to the wind, ignoring the warning signs. Self-controlled mum Eve has been trying to ignore the lump in her breast. For once she feels helpless and out of control. Finding support in an unexpected place, Eve knows she needs to face things head on before too long. Happily married, mum of three, India is drawn to one of the victims of the accident and it causes long hidden emotions to bubble to the surface. Also, a chance encounter with someone from her past reignites old feelings and makes India take stock of how her life is turning out.

The aftermath of the accident and how each of the group changes makes an intriguing story and Lucy Diamond has given us four interesting and likable leads that are different, yet have such endearing qualities that make you want the best for each of them. The accident shakes up their friendship and their relationships, but we see that this can only make things stronger as we read how each character looks at themselves and their lives in a new way. All four women and their situations are entirely realistic - a credit to the wonderful writing of Lucy Diamond. She has created four diverse stories but pulled them together beautifully in one especially so the reader sees from each of their perspectives. It is easy to follow, which is often difficult in a multiple narrative

‘On a Beautiful Day’ is an emotional and at time, sad, read yet it is also full of moments that show pure love and devotion to friends and family alike. It is funny in parts and powerfully thought provoking. An uplifting read essentially that emphasises the idea that you do get a second (and third, fourth etc.) chance and stresses the importance of friendship and support.

I liked the characters within the book, not one stood out more than another. I’m so happy each character got the ending they deserved, albeit probably not what was expected in some cases. It took me a few chapters to get fully hooked but once I was, I couldn’t wait to keep reading more. Although the conclusions within the story are there, I feel there is potential for each character to be revisited in the future (maybe?!) because I would love to see how their lives all continue.

I’ve read several of Lucy Diamonds books before but this is a stand out one for me now. I recommend any of her previous books if you haven’t had the pleasure yet but especially this one.

Comfy Rating: 👍👍👍👍

The Perfectly Imperfect Woman - Milly Johnson

Available here on Amazon

I am a huge advocate of visiting and using your local library. My earliest memory is being taken to the library and thumbing through the children's books - taking great delight in selecting which I would take home with me. This excitement has never lessened and now as an adult, I love being able to take home more than I could when I was a child. I can never come away with just a couple. 
'The Perfectly Imperfect Woman' by the marvelous Milly Johnson (follow her on twitter @millyjohnson) is what my library classes as a '7 Day - Chart Topper'  meaning you can take it out but must return it within 7 days and you cannot renew it. Its like some kind of exciting reading challenge I guess. I needn't of worried - it took me less than 24 hours to read this wonderful tale...

Marnie Salt has had a difficult life, mostly due to things beyond her control. After years of continually being made to feel unloved and always at fault she has often made bad choices that seem to end in bigger problems. The lack of love within Marnie’s life is apparent from the outset, adopted by a woman who never shows her love or attention but blames her for everything that goes wrong. We are given glimpses into Marnies’ beginnings but jump to her as a successful,if not lonely, woman. Marnie has worked hard and has a great career, she is successful and has aspirations about continuing to do well but it’s evident she has not had the same success in her personal life. Friends that have abandoned her, failed relationships with the totally wrong types of men leaves Marnie spending many a weekend alone and getting far too drunk. This is how she meets Lillian - an old lady causing a storm on a cheesecake chat room. Marnie, in a drunken stupor, bares her soul to Lillian, divulging her innermost thoughts and feelings. This is the beginning of an amazing friendship that is bound to change both their lives. After a crisis, Marnie needs an escape and Lillian is more than happy to provide this. Marnie is welcomed into Lillian’s life and village -Wychwell- with open arms just not by all that live there. Village folk are suspicious and Marnie in turn feels that maybe this is just another place she doesn’t belong and through the events that suddenly transpire, that it may be time to leave and look for another escape. Marnie soon comes to realise that Wychwell has taken her for its own and knows in her heart of hearts that she must to do what is best for the village, her new friends but most importantly for herself. She discovers that it’s fine to be imperfect, to have the cracks and bits missing that make us unique individuals. Marnies story resonates so to look at yourself and embrace who you are and know that what you consider to be flaws, loved ones will look past and see you for exactly who you are. The people that truly love you will see always see the true you. A magical tale of friendship, self-belief, community and true love.  I am a huge Milly Johnson fan and yet again I was taken to a little place that I just wished I could be part of. I was mesmerised by Marnie, Lillian and the village. I swooned at Herv and adored Emilie too - I found myself to be surprised and even heartbroken at some of the little twists in the story (that doesn't happen often). I thought I could predict what would happen, and yes for some things I was right - but there was definite curve-balls to keep me on my toes. I always look forward to reading Milly's books and hope in the future we can learn more about the people and the goings on in Wychwell but also pay a visit to lovely Marnie and see what happened after 'The End.' Comfy Rating: 👍👍👍👍👍

Faking Friends - Jane Fallon

Available to order here on Amazon 

Amy, on the verge of a dream wedding to her long-distance fiancé Jack, thought she knew everything about her best friend Melissa. Paying a surprise trip home to London Jack is out, but it's clear another woman has been making herself at home in their flat.There's something that feels oddly familiar and then it hits her, the other woman is Melissa.

Instead of falling apart, she's determined to get her own back, after all putting her life back together will be no where near as fun as ruining theirs - will it? .
For a story based on deceit, betrayal and revenge, this book is enjoyable - full of humour and perfect comedic moments that ensure the reader doesn't get all dark and 'twisty.' I liked how Fallon explored the theme of relationships, especially the toxic variety within the story shown in Amy's romantic relationship (Jack) and in friendships (Melissa). 
Definitely a book for chick-lit genre fans but this has a darker edge. Revenge tactics and what Amy chooses to do to those that have wronged her make this so much more than your typical woman wronged chick-lit tale. I found I just didn’t want to put it down. I was entertained by the relationships between the characters, and found myself pleased with how some of them played out
I was waiting for a twist and there are several surprises that await the reader. An interesting change from the norm is switching the 'teller of the tale' from Amy to a different character. This definitely adds an extra aspect to the book and is quite the revelation. I think Jane Fallon shows the contrasting viewpoints of the characters brilliantly and keeps an element of suspense.

With twists and turns (possibly predictable), it may not have been overly dramatic but I was more than happy with how it resolves in the end. 

I would recommend this book, a nice take on the genre with humour and revenge thrown in. 

Comfy Rating: 👍👍👍👍

Coming Home to Cuckoo Cottage - Heidi Swain

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The story begins with Lottie inheriting her her lovely new home, Cuckoo Cottage.
Lottie loves the cottage but Matt, a local builder, points out a whole host of problems that seem to keep cropping up. Lottie suspects Matt is not all that he seems and Will, Lottie’s neighbour and sparring partner, seems to agree.In a village where gossips won't leave her alone, Lottie plans to set up her own business renovating vintage caravans. With two men desperate for her attention too, will Lottie find love as well as success? 

I’ve never had the pleasure of reading any of Heidi Swains previous books -I shall be rectifying that sharpish - so I borrowed a copy from my local library. The book is part of their Reading Chain, you have an extended loan period and you have to leave a review on the bookmark. The existing reviews were good but Coming Home to Cuckoo Cottage was a pleasant surprise.  At first, I was unaware that all of Heidi’s novels are connected, set in the town of Wynbridge, but I don't think you really need to read them in order (although usually, for me, I would try to) but I guess that is the chance you take when taking out books from the library.  I instantly connected with Lottie and was rooting for her against all the gossips. She was definitely the kind of character I could imagine being friends with, she seems fun and really interesting. I loved how she was written and that she was the automatic heroine who I felt protective over. Written with warmth and humour, I enjoyed  the feeling of community (people looking out for Lottie) and  the friendships that were built with the use of pre-established characters, I wanted to know their stories (luckily I know I can seek them out in more of Heidi's books!). For an avid reader like myself, you spot typical cliches - the argumentative yet handsome neighbour I knew our heroine should (and probably would) fall in love with, the annoying, yet trying to be helpful, builder pandering for Lottie's' attention (who I personally wanted to get lost and leave her alone). It was fairly easy to spot the villain of the piece, annoyingly Lottie didn't as soon as she should - she seems a smart young lady so I'm not sure she would have really let him get away with so much for so long. I loved Heidi's writing style, it was very easy to read, it flowed nicely and was so descriptive you could imagine yourself there too. It was definitely a good, quick read but I do feel like I want to know more about Lottie and her friends, I would love to see how it all goes for her both professionally and personally. Hopefully in the future, in another story we get a glimpse of how well Lottie is getting on. Couldn’t put it down... I read fast anyway but this was “a cup of tea and slice of cake, don’t put it down” kind of book. Perfect chick-lit, feel good story. Comfy Rating: 👍👍👍👍👍

One in a Million - Lindsey Kelk

Click here to find on Amazon

Hands up I’m a huge fan of Lindsey Kelk, I have been ever since the first chapter of I Love New York (you have to check out the I Heart Series.) I also love following her on instagram - @lindseykelk One in a Million is the hilarious yet romantic story of Annie and Sam. As described it really is the My Fair Lady of the social media age – it's a definite feel-good read. So make a big mug of tea, grab some snacks and get comfortable... 

Annie Higgins has given up on love and she’s trying to get her fledgling business off the ground. Taunted by the dreamy advertising agency executive, Annie accepts a crazy bet –  make a random stranger Instagram-famous in thirty days.When they choose Dr Samuel Page PhD, historian and hater of social media, Annie’s sure she can win the bet . As Annie gets to know Sam it also means getting to know herself. As Day 30 approaches, Annie has to decide what really is important.
Firstly, hands up, I read this in one sitting. I admit I am a ridiculously fast reader (it’s a helpful skill) but to be honest I just didn’t want to stop reading the story. A gorgeous twist on a My Fair Lady-esque story for the modern age, where social media is everything, likes s equates to what we deem popular and the number of followers we can gain makes someone a celebrity . 

Both main characters, Annie and Sam, had me laughing, made my heart break a little but left me happy. Generally quite easy to see where the story was going but I’m O.K with that.  I enjoyed seeing the progression of the relationship, how Annie won Sam over but as a reader we also see how she is also being changed (unbeknownst to her).  I feel like there was a lot of additional characters that appeared and disappeared and didn’t add that much to the story line, standard best friend role to add a sense of reason for Annie, one side character that I must mention is Wellington. I loved Wellington - that guy could have his own adventures! 

I won't spoil the ending, but I will say it is more dramatic than I imagined it would be and not quite as clear cut as you would think. There is scope for a sequel and I would definitely like to see how the lives of Annie and Sam work out. I highly recommend this book if you fancy a bit of happy in our social media driven world. It may even may you think about how much you are confined to you social media presence.
Comfy Rating: 👍👍👍👍👍