BLOGTOUR: Review of Ellie & The Harp - Hazel Prior

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Sometimes it takes a chance encounter to discover what your life could be like... 

Meet Ellie. She’s perfectly happy with her home and her husband and her quiet life. Happy enough, anyway. Which is why she’s so surprised to find herself drawn to an extraordinary stranger who gives her a gift - and a fresh perspective.
Meet Dan. He thinks all he needs to be happy is the time and space to carry on making harps. Sometimes people buy them, too. But the last thing he expects is for Ellie to walk into his life, a whirlwind with cherry-coloured socks, bringing a string of surprises into his ordered existence.

As Ellie and Dan get to know one another, they begin to see the world - and themselves - in an entirely new way...

 Perfect for fans of The Keeper of Lost Things and Three Things About Elsie

My Review:

This is a beautiful story that’s told in an incredibly well written and charming way. It’s a tale of finding friendship in unlikely places with unlikely people, a story of looking past your initial conceptions and in following your own path, even trying something new.  Hazel Prior is very descriptive, whether it’s about the characters, the places etc. and I think it just adds to the story and especially lends well to Dan’s character and the way he thinks.

I adored Dan. What a fantastic character! I love a book that gives us both main characters POV and I enjoyed the insight in to what went through his mind as we progressed through the story – how he dealt with occurrences beyond what he was used to, how he evolved and handled what was out of his control.  Dan’s character was explored well, his personality and traits that make him such an intriguing and beguiling character.  The type of character that you don’t see often.

Ellie is interesting, someone that is looking for more than she has but doesn’t necessarily know what it is she is looking for. She is a simple soul, who enjoys writing poetry and feeling at one with nature walking the Exmoor Country. She is seeking something to comfort her losses, give her a purpose that is truly hers. Her husband Clive is controlling, overbearing and far from what Ellie needs, didn’t like him from the moment he made her return the harp at the beginning of the book.

This is a beautiful debut novel, as you read you get a clear sense of the authors love for the subject – for the angelic sounding harps, which were described so poetically.  As I read of a blossoming friendship for these two individual souls, I had a sense of trouble looming for both Dan and Ellie but as tragedy unfolds, it isn’t over the top, over dramatised or sensationalised, it remained in keeping with the style in which Hazel Prior had created.

Ellie and the Harp Maker is such a sweet and simple story, a special read that leaves you with a warm feeling, just like a cosy hug. A real treat to read and one I recommend highly.

Thank you to Anne Cater, Hazel Prior and Penguin RandomHouse for the opportunity to read and review this book, and for the chance to take part in this blog tour.  

Hazel Prior lives on Exmoor with her husband and a huge ginger cat.

As well as writing, she works as a harpist. You can find Hazel at @HaveAHarp. #EllieandtheHarpmaker 

BLOGTOUR: Review for 'Probably the Best Kiss in the World' - Pernille Hughes

 

Probably the Best Kiss in the World

Jen Attison likes her life Just So. But being fished out of a canal in Copenhagen by her knickers is definitely NOT on her to do list. From cinnamon swirls to a spontaneous night of laughter and fireworks, Jen’s city break with the girls takes a turn for the unexpected because of her gorgeous, mystery rescuer.

Back home, Jen faces a choice. A surprise proposal from her boyfriend, ‘boring’ Robert has offered Jen the safety net she always thought she wanted. But with the memories of her Danish adventure proving hard to forget, maybe it’s time for Jen to stop listening to her head and start following her heart…

My Review:

I was really excited to become part of the blog tour for this book. I think the cover is gorgeous, it drew my interest and then the synopsis really sold it to me. I must add that the title and nod to Carlsbergs ‘Probably the best beer in the world’ was genius!

I haven’t read anything from the author previously - shame on me - so this was a nice little surprise. As a craft fan (and someone that attends many craft events myself), I loved how this book demonstrated someone having a great passion for something others may not necessarily have interest in.  Jen reminded me a little of myself in that respect (and obviously in name!)

I do enjoy a good chick lit/rom-com and I do not mind that there are similarities in books of this genre, I do admire fresh takes on the usual, some shocks, twists and turns but I do tend to find that an authors writing style is the most important in bringing something special to it. Here we have something fresh, funny and easy going, Pernille has created down to earth characters that I found really likable.

Jen is passionate young woman, but we find her working in a job she doesn’t really believe in and in a relationship that isn’t exactly setting the world on fire. I like her a lot and she is not your typical leading lady. She has flaws and faults but who doesn’t, she cheats and is fairly self-absorbed yet she does love others and especially her younger sister (even if this is more often than not a tad overbearing for Lydia).

After a fun filled, romantic sounding trip to Copenhagen (where’s my suitcase, I want to go!) where she meets the enigmatic Yakob and gets kissed, properly, firework sparking kissed – Jen’s world is about to turn.

I enjoyed seeing the relationship between Yakob and Jen develop but even more than that I enjoyed seeing how Jen developed as a person and as sister. She’s over-protective, which is understandable to an extent, but I thought it was great to see how she eventually learned to let Lydia take risk and love her own life.

Overall this is a lovely story, a refreshing and well-paced chick lit read. I sat and enjoyed in one sitting, I was so absorbed - I love to get stuck in to a book that isn’t overly complicated but contains enough drama and surprises to keep me interested. Jen and co are a lovely bunch of characters and I definitely recommend for fans of the genre – or for those with a keen interest in beer!

 Thank you to Pernille Hughes , HarperImpulse and Rachel’s Random Resources for the opportunity to read and review this book


About the Author:
Pernille Hughes is a RomCom author and mum, whose debut novel was SWEATPANTS AT 

TIFFANIE'S, soon to be followed by PROBABLY THE BEST KISS IN THE WORLD (April 2019). Previously her writing has been printed in The Sunday Times and the fabulous SUNLOUNGER summer anthologies.

Find out about her new books at www.pernillehughes.com 

Pernille (pronounced Pernilla) studied Film & Literature at uni and took her first job in advertising, having been lured by the temptation of freebies, but left when Status Quo tickets was as good as it got. After a brief spell marketing Natural History films, she switched to working in Children's television which for a time meant living in actual Teletubbyland, sharing a photocopier with Laa-Laa.

Now, she lives in actual Buckinghamshire, sharing a photocopier with her husband and their four spawn. While the kids are at school she scoffs cake and writes RomCom stories in order to maintain a shred of sanity.

Follow Penille on Social Media:

Twitter https://twitter.com/pernillehughes

Facebook  www.facebook.com/pernillehughesauthor

Instagram www.instagram.com/pernillehughes

Bookbub  www.bookbub.com/profile/pernille-hughes

Pinterest www.pinterest.com/pernillehughes

Recent Read Round Up

It's been a wonderful few weeks of reading for me. I've had some great reads from the depths of my TBR mountain to discovering an author and promptly ordering everything she'd written. Here's a little round up of just a few:

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The Olive Branch - Jo Thomas

As a new,found fan of Jo Thomas I am having a ball working my way through all her books. If you haven't read a book by Jo Thomas before, please take a look at her wonderful back catalogue as they are brilliant.

The Olive Branch is a warm, romantic book  with a wonderful story of adventure, risk taking and the rewards of hard work and determination. I love stories that give us a true sense of its setting and Jo does that wonderfully. I've never been to Italy but through such great description I could  imagine the rural, close community that Ruthie finds herself part of. 

The book is full of great characters – and very amusing guard goat! Ruthie faces opposition from the Bellanouvo family who want what they believe to belong to them and want nothing more than seeing the back of this latest outsider.  I found Marco to be charismatic and charming, I could imagine the stereotypical sexy, Italian, dark, broody man next door. 


I loved The Olive Branch, it was an interesting and enjoyable story, with a fabulous cast of characters, and delicious descriptions that'll have you whisked away to Italy. I recommend for a pleasurable and relaxing read. 

Available here

Dear Mrs Bird - AJ Pearce

Ohh how I enjoyed Dear Mrs Bird by AJ Pearce. It's an amusing, charming read and for an historical fiction book is refreshingly light hearted - for the most part. There are some absolute heartbreaking, emotive scenes which really bring home the atrocities of the time. I was absorbed as soon as I started reading, I loved how easily the story flowed and how it progressed at a steady pace.

I loved the well written characters, the lovely Emmy Lake was quite a plucky young lady. She's a positive girl who remains optimistic even in dire circumstances; she is kind, caring and I'd say inspirational. Doing as much as she did for others in difficult times. I really enjoyed reading about a strong female from this time.

I really enjoyed the parts with the advice column – it added some funny moments, especially if deemed inappropriate for Mrs Bird. Her character seemed fierce and quite easy to dislike. No wonder Emmy wanted to do something nice for those that wrote in. I'd read that inspiration for Dear Mrs Bird came from real letters from wartime publications. I found this fact really thought provoking and quite sentimental.

Available here

Still Me - Jojo Moyes 

I'm a Louisa Clarke fan; she's a character that has given us happiness, love, fun and frolics but also heartbreak, agony and despair. I know there has been much discussion about the need for a second, and now a third book but honestly, this third book – took me right back and sucked me right in to her world again. I read and enjoyed After You, I can't say I loved it but always willing to give it a try so I admit I was apprehensive going into Still Me.

I knew the second I started reading I was back with Louisa Clark and I was happy these characters were back. I was reminded of Louisa's quirky character and matching that with being in New York – perfect.

It was quite an emotional read and as expected took you on quite a journey with Miss Clark – you don't think anything is ever straight forward or easy for her do you?! Jojo Moyes is a beautiful story teller and the story she gives us throughout Still Me is nothing less than brilliant. With introductions of some colourful characters, I felt Louisa had found the place she truly should be. I love how all characters have progression throughout and the ones you can't abide sometimes turn out to be the ones that make the book worthwhile.

As I finished this book I definitely felt that that's our time with Louisa at an end, and I honestly say I was a little bit emotional. It took me a few days to stop thinking about Still Me – it took me through so many emotions but I feel it was the correct journey for her final chapter.

Available to order 

The Second Husband - Louise Candlish 

I'm a fan of Louise Candlish's books. I've been trying to work my work through them all. I knew this was written earlier than the books I'd already managed to read so I wondered if the style would be any different.

I found that this was well written, familiar style and it flowed well. I was waiting for something though, I can't put my finger on what. I love a good twist or turn that you don't see coming but as I read I found myself wanting something more to happen. As I always expect to be surprised, I think my brain was coming up with extra twists on top of any the book threw at me. I'd guessed what would happen quit early on but I did wonder how it would be resolved (which ended up being done in a fairly “normal” way).

I did enjoy the book– I liked the story telling but would've liked some more unexpected turns. 

The Little Vintage Carousel by the Sea - Jaimie Admans 
The cover attracted me to this book, it’s bright, colourful and cute. I found this read to be utterly charming - especially our leading man Nathan(iel), who sounds wonderful. I’d love to find a Train Man like him! Ness is a great character, quirky, funny and with Nathan it’s clear to see a perfect match. 

I laughed a lot throughout the book and was definitely smiling as I read their romantic tale. 

A sweet story that has such likable characters; it is a well written, feel good tale. I also loved the sound of Pearlholme; would love to return. 

Thank you to HQ Digital for the copy via Netgalley for an honest review
                                                  
 

Rachel's Pudding Pantry - Caroline Roberts

Available here

Here's the blurb:

Primrose Farm is Rachel’s very own slice of heaven. Come rain or shine there’s always a pot of tea brewing by the Aga, the delicious aroma of freshly baked puddings, and a chorus of happy memories drifting through the kitchen.

But the farm is in a spot of trouble. As the daffodils spring, Rachel must plant the seeds of change if she wants to keep the farm afloat, and it’s all resting on a crazy plan. She’ll need one family cook book, her Mum Jill’s baking magic – and a reason to avoid her distractingly gorgeous neighbour, Tom . . .

Swapping their wellies for aprons, can Rachel and Jill bake their way into a brighter future? The proof will be in the pudding!

My Review:

YUM, YUM, YUMMY!

A delicious treat of a book from Caroline Roberts. Warning: you will scour every kitchen cupboard in sight for some kind of yummy goodness whilst reading this book.

From the start we are drawn into the lives of a clearly loving, warm, family unit – Rachel, Jill and of course, Maisy, I knew from the moment I started reading I only wanted good things to happen for them – I loved the special relationships between these characters, you really did get a sense of how much they loved each other.

The characters are down to earth, relatable and so easy to like – excellently written by Caroline. The community they are part of is very endearing, wonderful neighbours and friends who want to support and encourage, I'd love to be part of it myself. I was particularly keen on Tom, the farmer next door to Rachel and enjoyed how their relationship developed. It didn't feel rushed or forced at all. He was patient, kind and considerate, just what Rachel needs after everything they have been through.

I loved how descriptive this book is, whether about the tasty delights being created, the idyllic countryside setting or the increasing pressures of running a farm. Caroline's easy, flowing writing style made this a delight to read, it was a pleasure to sit and devour it in one sitting.

It's a wonderfully cosy book that will leave you feeling warm and fuzzy! A must read for romance or baking fans. Honestly, I was sad to finish this book – imagine my delight to discover we will be going back for another visit.

I cannot recommend Rachel's Pudding Pantry enough. Treat yourself!

Comfy Rating: 👍👍👍👍👍

If We're Not Married by Thirty - Anna Bell

Available here

BLURB:

Lydia's not exactly #LivingHerBestLife. She never imagined she'd be here at thirty - newly single, a job that's going nowhere and her friends all winning at life when she's still barely taking part. So she jumps at the chance of a free holiday and jets off to sunny Spain. 
Then, out of the blue, she bumps into her childhood friend, the handsome and charming Danny Whittaker. She's always had a crush on him and they soon enter into a passionate holiday romance. 
But this relationship could be more than just a fling. Years ago they made a pact that if they were still single when they turned thirty they would get married. But noone really follows through on these pacts . . . right?
Could Lydia's back-up man really be her happy ever after?

My Review:

I've really enjoyed Anna Bells previous books - The Bucket List to Mend a Broken Heart and It Started With a Tweet and 'If we're not married by Thirty' is yet another fun,will they/won't they romantic comedy. It  is a light hearted, enjoyable story that will take you on a journey of friendship and romance. The funny adventures of the characters in this book had me chuckling away throughout, definitely a book to put a smile on your face. 

She is a great leading character. I liked that she was relatable  – she is creative and hard working yet waiting for that next step in her career, she lives in her sisters basement but like anyone she has her flaws. I loved the scenes that show her getting into embarrassing situations such as when she thought she was going on a date that wasn't a date or when Danny's Mum walked in on her. Anna Bell wrote those parts so well, I was cringing as I read.

Now, Danny. I have to admit I wasn't totally bowled over by him. I thought he was a bit arrogant, show-offy, selfish and to be honest I didn't think he was very trust worthy or in fact the best match for Lydia. I was expecting some big reveal was going to happen and that Lydia would find her way back to her ex. 

I like the style of writing, I quickly got into the book, loved the descriptions of all the different places we found Lydia/Danny. I wasn't expecting massive, shocking twists but I knew there would be plenty of hiccups, ups and downs and misunderstandings that would ensure the path of true love didn't run too smoothly.

I would definitely recommend this book if you are a fan of a light hearted, fun little rom-com. It's perfect for a quick read around the pool.

Comfy Rating:👍👍👍👍

Sunset over the Cherry Orchard - Jo Thomas

AVAILABLE HERE

Goodreads Blurb:
It's time for Beti Winter to dance to her own beat.
 
After three failed engagements Beti is in desperate need of a fresh start. What better place than the sun-drenched hills of southern Spain? But it's not all sangria and siestas. Beti finds work on an old Andalucian cherry farm where there are cherries to be picked, trees to be watered and her fiery boss, Antonio, to win over.
As the sun toasts her skin, Beti finds herself warming to the Spanish way of life. Embracing the art of flamenco, she discovers there is much to learn from the dance of passion. She just has to let loose and listen to the rhythm of her heart.

My Review:
I've got to start with the cover – how stunning, The gorgeous colours are eye catching, its definitely what got my attention and compliments the setting of the book.

Sunset Over the Cherry Orchard is a fabulous story about having dreams, big, lifelong ambitions and not being prepared to settle for anything less, not giving up and working towards your goal no matter what. It is a tale of believing in yourself, believing you are good enough if you are happy to put yourself out there and face all life has to throw at you.

This was my first read by Jo Thomas (Where have I actually been?!) and was pleased to discover a story full of humour, fun and some special, tender moments. I found surprises littered throughout; with quirky characters (who could have their own stories to tell), unexpected friendships and blossoming relationships.

One of my favourite elements of the book was the descriptive, inclusion of flamenco, reading how Beti learned and felt impassioned by it was inspiring, I was all for booking a flight and heading off for my own flamenco adventure! Let's also praise the mouth watering foods mentioned throughout.

Beti is a wonderful leading lady; she's not had much luck and in typical fashion for this style of book, at first it doesn't seem that a move to Spain is going to be the happy ever after she wants. I liked how she developed, her outstanding work ethic and I was rooting for her to get the happy ending.

I loved how Sunset Over the Cherry Orchard transported me on a gorgeous, sun kissed adventure. A wonderful story, that's very well written. I was engrossed and finished almost in one sitting. I have already read another by Jo Thomas (review to follow) and can firmly say she is now amongst my favourite, must read authors.

Perfect read for those looking for adventure and love.  

Comfy Rating: 👍👍👍👍👍

BLOGTOUR: The Girl in the Pink Raincoat - Alrene Hughes

About the book

In wartime it takes courage to follow your heart.

Manchester, 1939.

Everyone hated the heat and the deafening noise, but for Gracie the worst thing was the smell of chemicals that turned her stomach every morning when she arrived at the Rosenberg Raincoats factory.

Gracie is a girl on the factory floor. Jacob is the boss's charismatic nephew. When they fall in love, it seems as if the whole world is against them – especially Charlie Nuttall, who also works at the factory and has always wanted Gracie for himself.

But worse is to come when Jacob disappears and Gracie is devastated, vowing to find him. Can she solve the mystery of his whereabouts? Gracie will need all her strength and courage to find a happy ending.

My Review:

I enjoy historical fiction and was more than pleased at being given the opportunity to read this book.

It did not disappoint – I loved it! 

From the moment I started reading about Gracie, Jacob, Sarah etc I felt like I was there in Manchester 1939. I felt like Gracie was a friend, who I was fairly protective over. Reading about her falling in love with her bosses nephew to eventually being alone at the alter, well my little heart broke for her but loved that Gracie followed her heart and did what she needed to do - for Jacob.

Gracie is strong though, she works hard through her heartache and is one determined young woman (maybe a little stubborn at times!). She is a gorgeous character, very well written, very entertaining and the ending, well it was perfect and is clearly what was meant to be for her. It did make me wonder if there could be a sequel – I would quite like to hear from Gracie again.

There were a few surprises, moments that I gasped out loud and felt really emotional about. Such a beautiful story that is told very well.

I have never read anything by Alrene Hughes before this so I didn't know her style but I can say I truly enjoyed it. The story unfolded at a good pace, it had me hook, line and sinker from the off. I read it in a couple of sittings because I was so absorbed by the story. I highly recommend this book for anyone with an interest in wartime romance, historical fiction.

Thank you to the publishers (@Aria_Fiction) and Alrene Hughes for providing me with a copy of the book to review.

About the author

Alrene Hughes grew up in Belfast and has lived in Manchester for most of her adult life.
She worked for British Telecom and the BBC before training as an English teacher. After teaching for twenty years, she retired and now writes full-time.

Follow Alrene:

Facebook: @alrenehugheswriter

Twitter: @alrenehughes

Buy links:

                            Amazon: https://amzn.to/2HU9E4V                           

Kobo: https://bit.ly/2HKJRN5

iBooks: https://apple.co/2TEXaQO

Google Play: https://bit.ly/2YqUREC

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