Chasing Dreams at Hedgehog Hollow - Jessica Redland

 

Samantha has a secret. Returning home from her dream honeymoon to the normality of running her beloved Hedgehog Hollow rescue centre, she's ready for the next chapter of her life with Josh. Or is she? Samantha is hiding something which could forever change the dreams they shared and bring their happy ever after crashing to the ground.

Lauren has given up on love. Twenty-six years ago the love of her life, Shaun, left her a note and was never seen again. Two painful divorces later she still can't face opening up to anyone. But little does Lauren know that the closure she's dreamt of for all these years may be closer than she thinks, and perhaps the only way to let new love in is to forgive and forget.

Samantha and Lauren will need the love and support from the Hedgehog Hollow family more than ever. After all, some dreams are worth chasing...

Purchase Link - https://amzn.to/36XRT2Y

My Review:

As a big fan of Jessica Redland generally but also of this series, it’s great to be back with all our friends (human and animal) at Hedgehog Hollow. Another great instalment of the series and it’s sadly the penultimate one – I don’t want this series to end! All good things though and Jessica had ensured there is plenty of storylines to see us through and tie things up for all involved.

Although you could read this as a standalone book, I cannot recommend starting the whole series as well as you really get to know and understand all the characters, living through their ups and downs, celebrations and commiserations.

For this visit we get to hear more of Lauren’s story and I have to say it is definitely not what I expected. We get some answers, make some life changing discoveries and really get to understand Lauren a lot more. There are some twists and turns (as always) but plenty of lovely surprises as well throughout this book. We do catch up with Samantha but, for me, it is a refreshing change to focus on someone else as well. They are a fantastic cast of characters and support each other in many different ways.

Jessica has such a way of drawing you into the lives of her characters, I feel like they are a bunch of my friends who I get to visit and catch up with. It’s just as if we could jump in the car to visit the hedgehogs!

As sad as it will be I cannot wait to see everyone for the last book in the series. I highly recommend this book, treat yourself and surround yourself with great characters, interesting storylines and cute hedgehog fun.

Thank you to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.

Author Bio:

Jessica Redland writes emotional but uplifting stories of love, friendship, family and community. Her Whitsborough Bay books transport readers to the stunning North Yorkshire Coast where she lives with her husband, daughter and sprocker spaniel. Her Hedgehog Hollow series, set in a hedgehog rescue centre, takes readers into the beautiful rolling countryside of the Yorkshire Wolds.

 

Social Media Links:

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

Twitter https://twitter.com/JessicaRedland

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

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

Bookbub profile: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/jessica-redland

The Little Bookshop by the Sea - Eliza J. Scott

 

Welcome to the Happy Hartes Bookshop in Micklewick Bay on the beautiful North Yorkshire Coast!

The Happy Hartes Bookshop has been a part of bookworm Florrie Appleton’s life as far back as she can remember. From the evocative smell of the books, to working alongside her beloved Mr H and his black Labrador, Gerty, there’s no wonder she calls it her happy place.

Living in a town she loves, with her family and group of close-knit friends nearby, life is sweet. Until one dreadful Monday morning, when everything is turned upside down and things are changed forever.

Devastated, Florrie finds herself thrown into an unexpected situation with handsome stranger, Ed Harte, owner of a pair of twinkly navy-blue eyes and a smile that has the knack of making mischief with her insides.

Despite being fresh out of a relationship, Florrie quickly finds herself falling for him, but she’s torn, reluctant to give her heart to someone who seems intent on not sticking around.

While her heart’s doing battle with her head, Florrie soon finds herself privy to a secret with Ed involving a heart-wrenching twist they could never have imagined.

Will love find a way to bring them together, or are they destined to go their separate ways?

Purchase Links

UK:  https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B09YMMBQCY

US:  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09YMMBQCY

My Review:

Oh my heart! Thank you Eliza for this lovely story.. I was engrossed from start to finish and I’m so happy we get more in a series – so many fab characters I already can’t wait to see more of.

I am a huge fan of all of this authors books, the settings are always so idyllic and make me want to move and make friends with all the brilliant characters we meet. Happy Hartes Bookshop in Micklewick Bay on the North Yorkshire Coast is now top of my list for fictional places to live (and what I wouldn’t give to work in the bookshop!)

When Florrie’s world is tipped upside down before she is able to help Mr H reconnect with his long lost Grandson, a chance encounter leads to surprising news and exciting prospects. Florrie is desperate to honour Mr H and ensure the bookshop stays put. An unexpected revelation leads to Florrie having to believe in herself a little more and also put trust in someone who is still a virtual stranger. Can she put her trust in Ed?

I love Florrie, how she cares for those in her life and she is completely happy with the life she’s leading and the home she’s created. Her passion and devotion to the book shop is evident from the off. The spark between her and Ed is clear from the start and of course we want the romance, but as always obstacles can put a stop to any potential love interests.

Well written with funny, light hearted moments as well as emotional, heart felt ones. I love Florrie’s group of friends she hangs out with – Jasmine, Stella, Maggie and Lark, they have her back and support her with everything.

I will recommend this one wholeheartedly, it’s a fantastic read and a great start to a series!

 Author Bio:

Eliza lives in the North Yorkshire countryside with her family. When she’s not writing, she can usually be found with her nose in a book/glued to her kindle or working in her garden, fighting a losing battle against the weeds.

Eliza is inspired by her beautiful surroundings and loves to write heartwarming romance stories with relatable female characters. Her books will always have a happy ending.

Social Media Links:

Twitter: @ElizaJScott1

Instagram: @elizajscott

Facebook: @elizajscottauthor

 

Jingle Bells in June, Little Duck Pond Café - Rosie Green

 

Mackenzie Morris, newest recruit at the Little Duck Pond Café, is the perfect addition to the team. But beneath her smiles, Kenzie is hiding a dark secret. It’s the reason she fled to Sunnybrook, desperate for a fresh start that would help to lay the ghosts that haunt her.

The challenge of turning her hobby into a business is a welcome distraction, and to her relief, she finds that her range of quirky pottery mugs and vases appear to be in demand. Alone and scared when she arrived, she’s slowly making friends and starting to feel as if she belongs. Meeting a lovely guy called Aidan seems to confirm this and it looks as if love might be on the horizon.
But then Kenzie makes a devastating discovery that threatens to crush her new-found happiness. Aidan is the one person she yearns to confide in. He’s also the one person who can never know the truth . . .

Purchase Link - https://amzn.to/3jDyibP

My Review:
A series I wait for with baited breath – I always look forward to a return visit to our old friends at the Little Duck Pond Café. Rosie has created such a wonderful array of characters, it’s a pleasure to meet a new character and discover their story.

In this visit to Sunnybrook we meet Mackenzie, and it’s not an exaggeration to say I was hooked from the moment I started reading to the end (in a very short time!) Kenzie’s story is interesting, I was behind her from the start and was hoping all would go well for her, even if she didn’t have the confidence in herself at all.

This story has some serious, deeper plot points that shocked me when revealed but work really well as part of the overall story. Rosie writes with empathy and sensitivity, as always, and it really warmed my heart when everything starts to work out.

Shocks, drama, heart wrenching trauma but still someone finding their place, someone believing in themselves again and finding support in unexpected places.

I don’t want to give anything away for this one but I will add that don’t expect this to be a festive story, the title is clever but isn’t an indication of when this story is set.

Another hit, unputdownable book from Rosie, I will always champion anyone to read this series, I simply love it.

Author Bio:

Rosie’s series of novellas is centred around life in a country village cafe. Look out for ‘Sun, Sea & Strawberry Shortcake’, a sunshine-filled drama full of fun and mystery, out in June 2022 and including the return of character favourites, Ruby and Hudson.

Follow Rosie on Twitter - https://twitter.com/Rosie_Green88

The Italian Job - Kathryn Freeman

 

Dream job. Dream house. Fake fiancé. 

A year in a gorgeous Italian castle…

When Anna Roberts’ life implodes, an online search leads her to an ad for the ultimate dream job – management of a gorgeous castle on the shores of Lake Como, accommodation included. The only catch? Anna can’t do it alone…

…With the last man on earth she’d choose!

The castle owners will only accept a couple as caretakers, which means Anna needs a man on her arm at the interview. Enter her neighbour, Jake Tucker. Though Anna and Jake have never seen eye-to-eye, Jake’s had a rough few years and an escape to Italy sounds ideal. Yet, when they get the job and jet off, Anna and Jake face an unexpected challenge. Pretending to be a couple is difficult … but pretending the tension simmering between them doesn’t exist is quickly proving impossible!

My Review:

A castle in Italy? Enemies to lovers? TICK AND TICK for me.
This is the story of Anna and Jake, neighbours who have never really seen eye to eye but now have to rely on each other to make their dreams come true. Anna is cheated on, losing both the love of her life and her job. She is told to find her “dream job” and she does just that – managing a castle in Italy. Her dream job doesn’t come easily though, there is a catch; applicants must be in a couple. Single Anna needs this job and so enlists the help of the last person she ever imagined asking for help.

On the surface Jake is a lad with a past; having spent time in prison for punching someone – he is out and now finds the community not exactly welcoming, although he had his reasons for what he did. He is loyal to those he cares about and is soon showing his true colours. He is looking for an opportunity to prove himself, and when Anna provides and opportunity he must decide if he can handle everything that is to come.

Great characters – both having their own issues and insecurities I found they balanced each other out brilliantly and had a positive effect on the other. Both characters evolved throughout the story, with a nudge or disagreement to help them on their way. There is drama, mishaps and miscommunications as well as romance and some light-hearted moments along the way.

This is the first time I’ve read anything by this author and I don’t think it will be the last. I thoroughly enjoyed the story, think it moved along at a good pace. I liked the characters (well the ones that we are supposed to like – there are some rotters in the mix as you can imagine).

I think this is a perfect summer, holiday read. 

Purchase Links

Link UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B09RFF6X5Q

Link US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09RFF6X5Q

Author Bio:

For as long as I can remember, I’ve always wanted to write a book. It may have had something to do with my obsession with reading romance. Real life interfered and I headed off in a different direction – into the world of science, becoming a pharmacist before joining the pharmaceutical industry. I did end up writing, but it was about disease and medicines. Decades later, I’m finally doing what I always wanted to do.

With a husband who asks every Valentine's Day whether he has to buy a card (yes, he does), all the romance in my life is in my head. Then again, his unstinting support of my career change proves love isn't always about hearts and flowers - and heroes come in many disguises.

Social Media Links:

Website:  http://kathrynfreeman.co.uk

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

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/KathrynFreeman1

Giveaway to Win a PB copy of

The Italian Job by Kathryn Freeman (Open INT)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

*Terms and Conditions –Worldwide entries welcome.  Please enter using the Rafflecopter box below.  The winner will be selected at random via Rafflecopter from all valid entries and will be notified by Twitter and/or email. If no response is received within 7 days then Rachel’s Random Resources reserves the right to select an alternative winner. Open to all entrants aged 18 or over.  Any personal data given as part of the competition entry is used for this purpose only and will not be shared with third parties, with the exception of the winners’ information. This will passed to the giveaway organiser and used only for fulfilment of the prize, after which time Rachel’s Random Resources will delete the data.  I am not responsible for despatch or delivery of the prize.

Good Neighbours - Mary Grand

 

It was meant to be a safe place to start again... 

In need of an escape from her failing marriage, Nia agrees to house-sit her aunt’s cottage on the Isle of Wight. She feels sure the cosy close in a quaint harbour town will be a safe place to hide and figure out what to do next. 

But things are not all as they seem in the close, and the neighbours who welcome her with open arms, are keeping secrets. When Nia finds the body of one of her new friends lying on the beach, she feels sickeningly sure that the killer is dangerously near to home.

Who killed her friend and why did she have to die? And if Nia discovers the answers she’s looking for, is she next on their hit list? Good neighbours may become good friends, but they can also make deadly enemies… 

Purchase Link - https://amzn.to/3pyRFpO

My Review:

An atmospheric and tense read, I enjoyed this ‘whodunit’ style thriller. It caught my attention and I found I wanted to keep reading to find out who was behind it all.

This story is set on the Isle of Wight where, upon first impressions they are a close group of friends/neighbours but beneath it all secrets, resentments and arguments mean someone has become a killer and will do all it takes to keep their identity from every being revealed.

Nia, has left Cardiff and her husband, Chris, of 20 years and is seeking refuge in her Auntie Gwen’s vacant property on the island. It isn’t long before she’s part of the group, but a tragic discovery leaves her feeling unsure of who to trust and their motives for wanting to keep her close.

It’s full of red herrings, but the clues are there. You will read along as Nia tries to eliminate each neighbour whilst being under the spotlight herself. As secrets start coming to light, you will not know who she can trust or whether she will be the next victim.

This book will grab you attention and fill you with suspense. It was very well written and moved along at a good pace, which I like with this genre. Very enjoyable for fans of this genre.

Author Bio:

Mary Grand is the author of five novels and writes gripping, page-turning suspense,
with a dark and often murderous underside. She grew up in Wales, was for many years
a teacher of deaf children and now lives on the Isle of Wight where her novel, The House Party, which was published by Boldwood in July 2020, is set.

 

Social Media Links:

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

Twitter https://twitter.com/authormaryg

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

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

The Meet Cute Method - Portia Macintosh

 

Do movie romances ever happen in real life...?

Frankie doesn't believe in true love. As relationships expert at popular magazine Stylife, she has learnt that dating disasters are far more common than happy ever afters.

So when she is tasked to find out if meet cutes can work in real life she is up for the challenge - but whether it's being a damsel in distress with a flat tyre, or spilling coffee over a stranger, she isn't convinced this can really lead to love.

But little does Frankie know that the ultimate meet cute opportunity is just around the corner. As she is whisked off her feet (all in the name of her work project of course...) perhaps true love isn't just for the movies after all...?

My Review:

I enjoy every single book that Portia writes; they are fun, quirky and I know will have really interesting characters. They are always books I read quickly, just because I am enjoying them so much. This book gives us all the usual Portia fun and frolics, also a gorgeous setting to ensure we have maximum holiday envy!

Frankie is single, living in a flat share and keen for the promotion of her dreams. It’s within touching distance when one fated day,  THE potential promotion announcement day, she finds everything that could go wrong does. Finally getting to her office, Frankie discovers a big change and one that threatens the promotion (and her chance to leave that flat share!)

Addison is cutting the dead wood and everyones needs to prove themselves if they are to stay, including Frankie. Pitching ideas to Addison, Frankie suggests using the old film style “meet cutes” in attempts to pick up men, i.e. ordinary situations that get her and a dream guy talking – falling over in the street, broken down car – that kind of thing.

This results in some hilarious antics, I laughed out loud a few times imagining the things Frankie does. When nothing seems to go to plan she turns to new friend Max, his idea is to invite her to join him on holiday. Hawaii, a dream destination, sounds too good to be true but Addison is over the moon with the possibilities this could have for Frankies article.

With lies being told on all sides, Hawaii may seem like an island paradise, but it soon becomes apparent that Max isn’t all he seems either. Both make bad choices, say the wrong thing but ultimately both Frankie and Max are trying to do what makes them happy whilst pleasing other people, maybe both need to take a step back and reassess.

Thoroughly enjoyable – a friends-to-lovers story with heart and action. Characters that are fun, likeable, and interesting. It ticked all the rom com boxes for me, and it played out in my head like a movie (that’d be a fun idea!)

I highly recommend checking this one out when it is released in May 2022. Many thanks to NetGallery and Boldwood Books for allowing me the opportunity to get an early copy of the book. 

Purchase Link - https://amzn.to/3vU5jrB

Author Bio:

Portia MacIntosh is the bestselling author of over 20 romantic comedy novels.

From disastrous dates to destination weddings, Portia’s romcoms are the perfect way to escape from day to day life, visiting sunny beaches in the summer and snowy villages at Christmas time. Whether it’s southern Italy or the Yorkshire coast, Portia’s stories are the holiday you’re craving, conveniently packed in between the pages.

Formerly a journalist, Portia has left the city, swapping the music biz for the moors, to live the (not so) quiet life with her husband and her dog in Yorkshire.

 

Social Media Links:

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

Twitter https://twitter.com/PortiaMacIntosh

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

Newsletter Sign Up Link http://bit.ly/PortiaMacIntoshNewsletter

Bookbub profile https://www.bookbub.com/authors/portia-macintosh

The Summer Fair - Heidi Swain

 

Join Heidi Swain back in Nightingale Square for a sunshine and celebration filled summer....

Beth loves her job working in a care home, looking after its elderly residents, but she doesn’t love the cramped and dirty house-share she currently lives in. So, when she gets the opportunity to move to Nightingale Square, sharing a house with the lovely Eli, she jumps at the chance.

The community at Nightingale Square welcomes Beth with open arms, and when she needs help to organise a fundraiser for the care home they rally round. Then she discovers The Arches, a local creative arts centre, has closed and the venture to replace it needs their help too – but this opens old wounds and past secrets for Beth.

Music was always an important part of her life, but now she has closed the door on all that. Will her friends at the care home and the people of Nightingale Square help her find a way to learn to love it once more.?

My Review:

Heidi Swain stole my book heart many moons ago with her fantastic characters, wonderful communities and stories that warm even the coldest of hearts. With each book we fall more in love with one of her fictional settings and have another character to adore.

A little biased you may presume, but honestly, Heidi never delivers a book I don’t love. I know exactly how I feel by the end – like I’ve spent time with a really good friend.

The Summer Fair is fantastic, another trip to Nightingale Square and back to catch up with friends of old. We also meet Beth, who has shut her beloved music out of her life as it is too painful to hear. She is a broken woman who is desperate to forget her passion for music because it brings back memories. She wants to move on from the past but her arrival in Nightingale Square might mean that is going to be more difficult than she ever thought.

Oh how I felt for Beth, I was willing her on at every opportunity – at work, getting away from awful housemates and once she settled into Nightingale Square. I could empathise with her aversion to shut out parts of her past, but she didn’t make it easy for herself at all.

As Beth works in a care home (you may recognise a certain someone there) and what a brilliant, often funny, inclusion – full of funny, quirky characters. This is also where we see Beth come into her own and blossom.

Eli is a great character and although he had his own thing going on, he helps Beth more than he realises ay first. He is an important part of helping Beth heal and believe in herself again.

Music is such a powerful and emotional tool in terms of mental health. It can break us down or build us up and this is a theme that is woven into this story.

Heartwarming, charming and probably one of Heidi’s best, I cannot recommend The Summer Fair enough. What a treat!

Until next time Nightingale Square….

Treat yourself with a copy of 'The Summer Fair' - Available - HERE!