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I love the title of this book and the fact that this alone, pulls you into the book and makes you ask so many questions. It implies that this book will be about punishment or revenge, but we are immediately pulled in to question who is going to be on the receiving end, what the punishment or revenge will be, and why it is being done. The dark red and black colours obviously too have their own connotations which fit in with the storyline of this book, such as danger, passion and death. Overall, a very striking and thought-provoking cover!

Blurb:

WOULD YOU SAVE THE MAN WHO DESTROYED YOUR LIFE?

When paramedic Megan Lowe is called to the scene of an attempted murder, all she
can do is try to save the victim. But as the man is lifted onto a stretcher, she realises
she knows him. She despises him. Why should she save his life when he destroyed
hers?

Jess Foster is on her way home when she receives a text from Megan. Once best
friends, the two women haven’t been close for years, not since the night when they
were just the teenage girls whom no-one believed; whose reputations were ruined. All
Jess can think is, you had it coming.

Now Megan and Jess are at the centre of a murder investigation. But what secrets are
they hiding? Can they trust one another? And who really is the victim?

My thoughts:

The opening of the book pulled me in straight away. There is no time for messing around, and we are immediately confronted with the shocking and violent death of William, told from the point of view of paramedic Megan, but later fleshed out with more detail by the police inspector Bridget.

Therefore, as a reader you are immediately thrown into the story and you can see suspicion all around. Despite being a dead man from the opening pages, William plays a central role in the book and we find that he has more enemies than friends. But who would really want to see him dead?

This is definitely a book of two halves. During the first half, the author works hard to create a sense of place and develop our understanding of the main characters and their lives, both in the present and 12 years ago, which establishes their connection to William Newson.

I had my suspicions about who was involved but I could not say for certain, so I was eager to uncover the true details of this suspicious death. I particularly enjoyed reading Bridget’s point of view and I believe she came across as a hard-working and likeable characrter.

There are some triggering topics dealt with in this book: consent and sexual abuse among them. However, I feel that the author dealt with these in a sensitive and sophisticated way, especially by showing the impact this has had on Jess and Megan after many years, and the way Bridget strives for answers.

Overall, this has been an thought-provoking and compelling read which I have enjoyed.

I was drawn to this book by the vibrant and beautiful cover. This author is also very well known, and for my own sins I have not picked up a book by her since I read Little Village Christmas a few Christmas seasons ago. I was really looking forward to reading another book from her impressive and rapidly growing catalogue of romance novels, as I had thoroughly enjoyed my previous read.

Blurb:

The #1 bestseller is back with an uplifting, escapist read that will brighten the gloomiest day!

A warm, sun-baked terrace.

The rustle of verdant green vines.

The sun slowly dipping behind the Umbrian mountains.

And the chink of wine glasses as the first cork of the evening is popped…

Welcome to Italy. A place that holds the answer to Zia-Lucia Costa Chalmers’ many questions. Not least, how she ended up with such a mouthful of a name.

When Zia discovers that her mother wasn’t who she thought she was, she realises the time has come to search out the Italian family she’s never known.

However, as she delves into the secrets of her past, she doesn’t bargain on having to think about her future too. But with local vineyard owner, Piero, living next door, Zia knows she has a serious distraction who may prove difficult to ignore…

This summer, join Zia as she sets out to uncover her past. But can she find the future she’s always dreamed of along the way?

My thoughts:

I have definitely felt like I have escaped bleak and dreary aka “summery” Newport and been transported to the beautiful vineyards of Italy. I loved the evocative and escapist experience this book gave me as I was able to feel like I had followed Zia’s journey and could see the scenery, taste the wine and so on.

I was definitely drawn in by Zia’s character and felt sympathy for her situation. She is feeling a little lost after losing her job and the end of a serious relationship, and her search for identity and belonging takes her to Italy. Zia has come across as a likeable, down-to-earth character and I have been hopeful that this journey would satisfy her desire to find out the truth of the past, but also find a place and direction to map out her future.

This complex and vital search for identity, belonging and home ensures that this book is much more than a fun and escapist holiday romance (though it is that too!) The romantic storyline is perfectly pitched and appropriately developed in order to appear authentic and yet still showcases those romantic ideals that we all need at times, in a book such as this.

I definitely feel like this book has taken me on an emotional as well as almost physical journey to Italy, and has had me rooting for the happiness and answers Zia both desires and deserves. The author has packed in much more drama and twists and turns than I expected, and this has definitely peaked my interest. I would recommend this book and author to fans of Jo Thomas, T A Williams and Lucy Coleman.

I was drawn to this book after being involved in the cover reveal a few months ago. I love illustrated covers, I love dramatic fiction and I love reading about Scotland, a place that I miss very much, so this book sounded like a great choice for me.

Blurb:

When Scotland’s sleepiest hamlet becomes the centre of hot gossip, Layla Devlin finds herself caught in a mystery…

When Layla’s fiancée has an unexpected heart attack and dies – in another woman’s arms, no less – Layla is determined to pack up and leave Loch Harris, the village she’s always called home. But an unexpected inheritance and love for her quiet corner of Scotland send her down a new path.

Now Layla finds herself facing a whole new kind of drama. Rumours swirl that a celebrity has moved into Coorie Cottage and Layla is determined to have him headline her opening night at local music venue The Conch Club. But the reclusive star is equally determined to thwart Layla’s efforts. Rafe Buchanan is in hiding for a reason, and soon his past comes to Loch Harris to haunt him…

My thoughts:

There have been so many elements to this book that I have enjoyed.

There are some great characters, but I especially felt a connection with Layla and Harry. Layla is a salt-of-the-earth, rare diamond who is selfless, honest and caring. However, her life is far from perfect and she realises that she has a lot of learning and growing to do to get to where she wants to be.

There is romance everywhere, and rather than focus solely on Layla, it actually involves the reader in 3 possibly romantic situations, which has kept my interest.

However, my favourite element was definitely the mystery and secrecy surrounding the “Mask” character. He was immediately a character I wanted to know more about, as I couldn’t figure out his motives or role in the story. Everything is slowly revealed and the narrative at this point maximises the drama of the situation in a really clever way that is also easy to follow.

Overall, this has been an intriguing and uplifting story with a heart-warming message about family, fresh starts and not judging a book by its cover. I would definitely recommend this book & author to fans of Samantha Tonge and Jennifer Bohnet.

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I was drawn to this book as this author is a firm favourite. There is always something about the way she writes that is comforting yet disconcerting, satisfying yet frustratingly unpredictable…

Blurb:

Ten years ago he killed my son. Today I married him.

Ten years ago my darling son Jesse was murdered and our perfect family was destroyed. My strong, handsome boy, so full of life, became a memory, a photo I carried with me everywhere.

But today I’m finally close to finding happiness again. My ash-blonde hair has been curled into ringlets. Carefully placed white flowers frame my delicate features. The small, drab chapel has been prettied up with white satin, and there are tiny red hearts scattered on the small table where I will soon sign the register with my new husband.

The man who killed my son.

My friends and family can’t understand it. My neighbours whisper in the street whenever I walk past. How can I love a man like Tom?

They don’t really know me at all…

My thoughts:

This has definitely been a compelling and exciting read. Despite the premise seeming a little far fetched, the author does make some good points about restorative justice and the way in which people deal with grief. However, I was completely intrigued by this peculiar storyline and needed to know more about Tom & Bridget’s relationship…

This has taken me on an unexpected trajectory and at one point or another I have been suspicious of each one of the main characters, thinking up some pretty elaborate and incorrect motives for their actions. I liked how the mothers, Jill and Bridget, though definitely not easily described as “likeable” characters, were developed enough for us to understand their actions and reactions at certain points.

For me, this has been a book of two halves in some ways. The first half felt a bit of a slow burn, with so much back and fore, but the second half was utterly brilliant and I struggled to put it down.

This book has surprised me and there has been some shocking twists. Despite being called “The Marriage” and the cover leading you to believe this will focus on Bridget & Tom’s unlikely pairing, the plot quickly becomes much more complicated and sophisticated than that.

Overall, I would definitely recommend this author to psychological fiction fans and I look forward to reading more of her books!

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I was drawn to this book by the bright and vibrant cover, which stands out and suggests that this will be a fun and light-hearted read.

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Blurb:

Sophia Gregory has lost her sparkle…

Recently single and about to turn sixty, Sophia doesn’t recognise the old woman staring back at her in the mirror. How has life passed her by? A quiet holiday in beautiful Rhodes is the perfect chance for her to find herself.

Until she meets the Old Ducks!

Juliette, Kim and Anita are three friends who are determined not to grow old gracefully! Bold and brash, they are Sophia’s worse nightmare, until they make her an honorary member of The Old Ducks’ Club! Now dancing and drinking till dawn Sophia starts to shake off her stuffy old life and start living again!

And when she meets her gorgeous Greek neighbour, Theo, she thinks that maybe, if she’s just a little braver, she can learn to love again too…

My thoughts:

I loved the characters in this book. Sophia is a great heroine. She is a likeable and admirable character, who it is easy to identify with despite the fact she is double my age. She comes across as someone who is guarded, a little lost but also fun-loving and loyal.

As soon as we met the Old Ducks, I could sense that these were going to be a formidable and feisty group with a huge dollop of girl power. I wanted to be in their group! I loved reading the scenes of them lazing in the hot tub, drinking prosecco and laughing at each other. It really lifted my spirits.

There are so many gorgeous descriptions in the book which give it a lovely, escapist feel. From the food, the scenery, to the boat trips and the landscapes, it really does give the reader the sense of being in Rhodes too.

On the surface, in many ways, this is a light hearted and fun novel about friendship, romance, independence and holidays. However, there are some really important topics also discussed, including identity, self confidence, the battle with loneliness and the need for being ‘selfish’ in order to establish self-care and distance yourself from absolute twerps like Lucien. In this sense then, it is beautifully written and the rawness and honesty with which the author writes actually made me quite emotional at times.

Theo, as a complete opposite to Lucien, makes a great hero. He too, has his own concerns that make him a realistic character, but overall he is caring, giving and protective, which is exactly what Sophia needs. But when Lucien turns up realising he’s been an idiot, who will she choose? This section of the book definitely had me hooked as I needed to find out the outcome!

Overall, this has been a thoroughly enjoyable, thought-provoking and uplifting read that I would recommend to fans of Milly Johnson and Judy Leigh.

“You can teach an Old Duck new tricks.”

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I have to admit that I was excited by the title of this one. Having read Chaucer, once upon a time, I can say with much certainty that something that is “not exactly Chaucer” is much more to my taste. However, Wendy Mason’s literary talent shines through in this book.

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Blurb:

In this contemporary twist on Chaucer’s ‘The Canterbury Tales’, tour manager, Bailey, strives to ensure that her guests enjoy their three-week tour of Australia – for many, the holiday of a lifetime.
Then Bailey discovers that her tour operator – Australia Unleashed – has been taken over, she has a secret shopper among the guests and her career is on the line. She remains determined in her quest. However, her good intentions disintegrate into a cocktail of chaos!
Take a slice of mystery; a shot of skulduggery; a measure of prejudice; a twist of romance and a dash of humour. Put them all together, shake and enjoy, as the twenty-one travellers each tell their stories, form new relationships and discover things about themselves that will change their lives forever.

My thoughts:

This has been such a fun and easy read. With 21 characters, and containing 21 different tales or excerpts from each character, it had the potential to get very messy. However, Wendy’s talent and skill shines through in this well-organised, original and entertaining book.

There are a few things going on here: an overall plot, mainly involving the tour guide Bailey and mystery man Miller, the tales of the guests, and the cocktail recipes and setting descriptions.

The overall plot gives the book an overarching direction and purpose. I really liked Bailey as a character and found I was intrigued by her relationship with Miller. Bailey seems to be a hard-working, dedicated and caring person and there were times where I really felt some of the treatment she received was unfair. However, I believe she portrays the highs and lows of working in the service industry well.

Mason has done well to create such an eclectic and vibrant cast of characters who, through their stories, add something important to this book. The stories, which Bailey constantly reminds us should be entertaining and not controversial, actually deal with some very pertinent and complex issues, including: crime, revenge, sexuality, religion and relationships. I loved reading these stories. I found myself to be lost in thought after reading each one, but also eager to move on to the next.

The cocktail recipes and the sometimes detailed descriptions of the varied settings they visit across Australia definitely ensure that this book appeals to the reader’s imagination and senses. After reading, I’m definitely looking forward to trying an “Aviation cocktail” and  I’m even more keen to visit the natural beauty that is The Great Barrier Reef.

I feel like the word original doesn’t quite do this book justice. It tackles so many themes and scenarios, has some wonderful structural elements and is completely unlike anything I’ve read before. It is, however, definitely a compelling and entertaining read.

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I was drawn to this book as I’ve previously read One Winter’s Night by this author which I really enjoyed. I love the concept behind this story and was really excited to pick it up.  I think you’ll also agree that the fully illustrated cover is gorgeous and enticing.

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Blurb:

The Borrow-a-Bookshop Bookshop Café invites literature lovers to run their very own bookshop … for a fortnight.

Spend your days talking books with customers in your own charming bookshop and serving up delicious cream teas in the cosy café.

Bookworms, what are you waiting for? Your holiday is going to be LIT(erary).

Apply to: The Borrow-a-Bookshop Bookshop Café, Down-a-long, Clove Lore, Devon.

Jude Crawley should be on top of the world. She’s just graduated as a mature student, so can finally go public about her relationship with Philosophy professor, Mack.

Until she sees Mack kissing another girl, and her dreams crumble. And worse, their dream holiday – running a tiny bookshop in the harbour village of Clove Lore for two weeks – is non-refundable.

Throwing caution to the winds, Jude heads down to Devon, eager to immerse herself in literature and heal her broken heart.

But there’s one problem – six foot tall, brooding (but gorgeous) Elliot, who’s also reserved the bookshop holiday for two weeks…

As Jude and Elliot put their differences aside to run the bookshop, it seems that Jude might be falling in love with more than just words. Until she discovers what Elliot is running from – and why he’s hiding out in Clove Lore.

Can Jude find her own happy ending in a tiny, tumbledown bookshop? Or is she about to find out that her bookish holiday might have an unexpected twist in the tale…

My thoughts:

I loved the dramatic opening to this book. It definitely hooked me in immediately. There is suddenly lots of change and upset in Jude’s life, which sets the reader up for a journey and a (hopefully) happier conclusion.

I immediately identified with the main character, Jude. She is a true bookworm and a likeable character. She has lots of wonderful qualities, such as her caring nature, her intelligence and the way she treats family as a priority. However, her vulnerability, lack of self confidence and struggles with maths make her appear raw, real and relatable.

I loved the setting of Clove Lore. I immediately thought that Kiley’s descriptions were too detailed and vibrant for this to be a completely made up place, and after reading I definitely want to visit Clovelly. I loved how she explained that she took a real place and added her own sprinkle of magic to make it fit the story and the characters.

This has been quite a rollercoaster of a read and I have been rooting for Jude’s happiness. At the beginning of the book, her home and what she knows as “stability” in her life is completely overturned, so it has been interesting to see how she has coped with the new challenges and changes that the much needed trip to Clove Lore has caused.

Throwing Elliot into the mix was a great choice. He is described in such a mysterious way that he could go either way – is he a hulk of man on the outside, covering a soft centre that is going to win Jude’s heart? Or is he as threatening and brute-ish as he first appears, making her need to look elsewhere

I have adored this gentle, beautiful and uplifting book about making the most of new opportunities and finding the courage to pick yourself up and dust yourself off. I would definitely recommend this book and author to fans of Cressida McLaughlin and Heidi Swain.

To end, a quote from the book: “Words are just as important as medicine, for healing.” ♥️♥️♥️♥️

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I was drawn to this book by the beautifully illustrated cover and the title, which made it sound like this would be an uplifting and escapist read. I have also had this author recommended to me SO many times, and I knew it was about time I picked up one of her books.

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Blurb:

When Pixie Sampson’s husband tragically dies, she inherits the beautiful Château Quiltu in Brittany, Northern France.

But unbeknown to her, she also inherits a mysterious lodger, Justine Martin and her 4-year-old son Ferdie.
Heartbroken and with her adventurous Mum, Gwen in tow, they travel to France to put the Château on the market but are soon drawn into a quest to seek the Château’s secrets.
Who is Justine? Why is she living at the Château? How did she know her husband?

Over the Summer months, the Château fills with family and laughter and secrets are discovered and old wounds begin to heal.

My thoughts:

The beginning of the novel was engaging and in some ways, devastating as Pixie had lost her husband in tragic circumstances after 35 years of marriage. It definitely set an emotional tone to the novel, and set the novel up for an exploration of new beginnings.

I really find it refreshing to have the two main characters as being older ladies as this definitely in some ways made their relationship and emotions more believable.

I really feel like this book has taken me on a trip to France. Jennifer’s experience of living, or having lived, in France, is clear from the vibrant and lively descriptions of the Château and the surrounding areas of Brittany. I really feel I have escaped wet and windy Newport to visit this myself, just by reading this novel.

As the novel progresses and the initial shock and drama wears off, the pace slows slightly then the mystery and secrets of the past come to light and the pace ramps up again, which I loved.

Overall, this has been a gentle and enjoyable reader by an author that I am now keen to visit the back catalogue of.

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I was drawn to this book by the cover, which of course screams responsibility, danger and risk. I also liked the thought provoking tag line and it made me eager to pick this one up. It also, of course, reminded me of The Silent Patient, which was one of my favourite books of 2020.

Blurb:

Rose Marlowe is a hard-working nurse, a loving wife, and a merciless killer. Or so she says. Despite her confession, it is hard to believe that this beautiful, kind woman could have killed her vulnerable patient in cold blood.

Down-on-his luck author and ex-journalist, Theo Hazel, is convinced that there’s more to what happened than Rose is telling, and so decides to visit her behind bars to write her story. His first surprise comes when Rose reveals that the victim was not a stranger to her.

As time goes on, it seems that Rose is letting Theo see behind her perfect mask. With each new visit, he learns terrible new things about her heart-breaking past. With each new visit, he becomes more and more convinced that she can’t be a killer. But is he trying to free an innocent victim, or falling prey to a calculating murderer?

A gripping and unputdownable thriller that will keep you guessing into the early hours of the morning. Perfect for fans of The Silent Patient, Shari Lapena and JP Delaney.

My thoughts:

The opening of the book is completely gripping, haunting and shocking. I loved the fact that it started with the death scene and from there moved forward and backwards, to be before and after the incident. This was definitely a strong start for me.

I’ve read a couple of books recently where the “back and fore” style hasn’t really worked. It’s slowed down the pace of the book, or it’s made me a bit confused, or I’ve favoured one narrative over the other. This is definitely not the case for this book. The “present” events and the events of 1991/92 definitely both have their relevance, merit and a story to tell. This was definitely a strong element of the book for me.

I struggled with the characters in this one. Something about Daniel creeped me out from the very beginning, and the same goes for Ed, and Abigail after a time. I have to admit that despite her horrifying story, I did struggle to build a connection with Rose. However, I was definitely invested in her story from the beginning.

In some ways, the psychological element in this story is quite subtle and in that way it makes it all the more shocking. There were definitely some unpredictable twists.

Overall, this is a well written and intriguing psychological thriller that I would recommend to fans of the genre.

⭐⭐⭐.5

I am so happy to be involved in the blog tour for this book. The cover is absolutely gorgeous, and I was looking forward to reading a book about family, music and romance.

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Blurb:

When Johnny meets Lauren in a bar in Santa Cruz, there’s an instant connection. On an American road trip with best friend Will, Johnny promises to return to the girl who has stolen his heart.

Until tragedy strikes, forcing Johnny to fly back home without ever seeing Lauren again.

Six years later, Johnny is living his life in London, even if he’s never forgotten the girl with the grey eyes and dark hair.

Until one September morning, he opens his door to find a little boy standing there – a child, Johnny quickly comes to learn, who was created that one magical night. Lauren is dying, and her last wish is to reunite five-year-old Luke with the father he doesn’t yet know.

Thrown into unexpected parenthood, Johnny finds himself navigating school-gate politics, Disney movies and tantrums, guided by the notes Lauren has written for him.

Life as an instant dad isn’t always easy, but as Johnny and Luke open their hearts to each other, Johnny is about to discover that life’s joy isn’t always where you expected it.

An emotional, feel-good read that will have you laughing while you wipe away a tear – readers of Dani Atkins, Mike Gayle and Jojo Moyes will be captivated.

My thoughts:

“Intriguing is always interesting as a place to start, as you never know where it might take you.”

This quote is taken from the book and definitely sums up how I felt during the opening pages. Johnny is on a physical journey: a road trip with his best pal Will. However, a chance encounter with Lauren makes it clear that Johnny may be about to embark on an entirely different, emotional and life changing journey…

The characters in the book are wonderful. I really felt empathy for Johnny from the beginning and thought Lauren came across really well.

There were some really upsetting and shocking twists in this book and that definitely kept me gripped and captivated. There are also some beautiful and emotional scenes that show the power of human connection.

I loved that the story skipped time frame so we were able to see into the future of Johnny’s life and what happens when Luke arrives. These scenes remind me a little of one of my favourite films, Big Daddy, in that there was some soft humour but also touching scenes and an honest exploration of the change and chaos, but also joy, that being a parent brings to your life.

Overall, this has been a beautiful, heart-warming and dramatic book that I have enjoyed from beginning to end. I loved the emotion that was packed into the ending. I would definitely recommend this book to fans of authors such as Rachel Marks and JoJo Moyes.

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