It's Monday. What Are You Reading?

 

It’s Monday! What Are You Reading? a place to meet up and share what you have been, and are about to be reading over the week. It’s a great post to organise yourself. It’s an opportunity to visit and comment and er… add to your groaning TBR pile! So welcome in everyone. This meme started on J Kaye’s blog and then was hosted by Sheila from Book Journey. Sheila then passed it on to Kathryn here at The Book Date.

What I read last week.

What I'm reading now.

What I'm going to read next.

Bookclub - Bonnie Garmus and Jenni Fagan

Audio - Sophie Irwin

The Pigeonhole - Cary J Hasson

Blog tour - Rebecca Raisin 

The Split by Amanda Brookfield

 

Two decades on from a passionate courtship and marriage, Lucas and Esther are getting divorced. 

For Esther, it’s proving hard not to feel bitter watching Lucas enjoying his successful career, not to mention the attentions of his gorgeous, intelligent, and predictably younger lover. She meanwhile is struggling to forge a new life for herself, navigating the pitfalls of modern dating, while trying not to despair at the cost of living as a single woman of a certain age.

Then Lucas faces a shattering accusation at the same time as their children Dylan and Lily, start to implode.  When Dylan runs away, and as his father fights to save his reputation, Lucas and Esther find themselves back in each other’s lives, whether they like it or not.

Has too much water passed under the bridge, or will long-forgotten loyalties and feelings bring the family back together, just when they need each other the most?

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

What did I think?

I haven't read one of Amanda's books in such a long time - but have enjoyed her earlier books. Time to dive back in.

Love a domestic drama - especially when it is as well written as this one. A slow burn but it soon picks up pace as explores the fall out from a marriage break up. How it affects those involved along with the wider family unit.

Enjoyed how the story developed as more and more secrets and revolutions are divulged. Had me gripped.

 

Author Bio –

Amanda Brookfield is the bestselling author of 16 novels including Good Girls, her first book for Boldwood, Relative Love and Before I Knew You, as well as a memoir, For the Love of a Dog starring her Golden Doodle Mabel. She lives in London and has recently finished a year as Visiting Creative Fellow at University College Oxford.

 

Social Media Links –  

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/amandabrookfield100

Twitter https://twitter.com/ABrookfield1

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

Newsletter Sign Up: http://bit.ly/AmandaBrookfieldNewsletter

Bookbub profile: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/amanda-brookfield

It's Monday. What Are You Reading?

 

It’s Monday! What Are You Reading? a place to meet up and share what you have been, and are about to be reading over the week. It’s a great post to organise yourself. It’s an opportunity to visit and comment and er… add to your groaning TBR pile! So welcome in everyone. This meme started on J Kaye’s blog and then was hosted by Sheila from Book Journey. Sheila then passed it on to Kathryn here at The Book Date.

What I read last week

What I'm reading now

What I'm going to read next

Bookclub - Bonnie Garmus and Jenni Fagan

The Pigeonhole - Jean Fullerton

Audop - Sophie Irwin

Blog Tour - Rebecca Raisin

Dreams of Magpie Cove by Kennedy Kerr

 

The cove itself was small, but beautiful, filled with fine golden sand. Ellie had always heard that Cornwall was romantic, and now she could see why. There was something wild and magical about the turquoise blue sea and the grey-black cliffs that hinted at the shadows of caves under the tide line. Shading her eyes from the sun, Ellie wondered if it would be enough to make her forget what had brought her here…

Ellie McTavish’s world turns upside down when a deadly diagnosis comes out of nowhere. Feeling adrift as she recovers from life-saving surgery at home, she impulsively bids on a vintage caravan, only to discover the next day that she’s won it. So she grabs her friend Fee and takes it on an impromptu road trip…well, that’s the plan, until it breaks down outside the tiny village of Magpie Cove in Cornwall.

Unexpectedly stranded, the two women don’t have much choice but to stay there until it’s fixed. At least the local mechanic, Mark, is distractingly handsome. Not that Ellie would ever act on her feelings – after the surgery she’s not sure she’ll ever feel beautiful again. If only she’d stop running into him everywhere in town…

As Ellie settles into life in the cove – even daring to swim in the icy sea with a group of local women each morning – she can feel herself slowly healing. But just as she begins to let herself grow closer to Mark, a midnight attack on her rented beach house once more puts Ellie’s fragile courage to the test. Sometimes the deepest scars are on the inside – will Magpie Cove be able to mend Ellie once and for all?

A perfect, feel-good page-turner about friendship, love and the power of starting over, set in gorgeous Cornwall. Perfect for fans of Shari Low, Veronica Henry and Heidi Swain.

What did I think?

This is the 4th book in the Magpie Cove series and although I think it works well as a standalone book I think it would be better to read them in order as the same characters appear through all the books.

 The inhabitants of Magpie Cove are an interesting lot and I felt like I was returning to a loved holiday destination when I started reading.

I always love a book set in Cornwall - maybe because I live the at the opposite end of the country. Loved the descriptions of the sights and sounds of the county.

It was an uplifting series and I really hope there will be more books in the series.

The Little Theatre on Halfpenny Lane by Clodagh Murphy

 

Aoife and her sisters know exactly what to do when they inherit their Great-aunt Detta’s theatre on Halfpenny Lane:

 

-        Restore the dilapidated building to its former glory.

-        Perform together on its stage to packed houses and rapturous applause.

-        Live happily ever after.

 

But they didn’t count on Detta leaving a share in the theatre to her godson, Jonathan. Now they’ll have to persuade him to buy into their vision of stardust and magic – or find the money to buy him out.

 

As they fight to save the theatre, Aoife also battles her growing feelings for Jonathan. Because she can’t let herself fall for the man who’s about to bring the curtain down on their dreams.

What did I think?

Such a sweet story about family, romance and achieving your dreams.

Loved the setting of a small theatre - brought an extra bit of magic to the story.

The sisters have such a bond and this really shone through. Such strong relationships and I loved their memories of their aunt.

I think this book is the first of a new series which I am delighted about - looking forward tor reading more about the sisters.

A delightful book which made me want to keep reading.

Purchase Links

UK - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Little-Theatre-Halfpenny-Lane-heartwarming-ebook/dp/B0B4KNC9QX

US - https://www.amazon.com/Little-Theatre-Halfpenny-Lane-heartwarming-ebook/dp/B0B4KNC9QX

 

Author Bio –

Clodagh Murphy lives in Dublin, Ireland. She has worked as a bar waitress, cleaner, secretary, editorial assistant, mystery shopper and movie extra. But she always dreamed of being an author, and after more jobs than she cares to (or can) remember, she now writes full-time. For more information about her books or to sign up to her newsletter, visit her website at http://clodaghmurphy.com/.

 

Social Media Links –

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/ClodaghMMurphy

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

Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/clodagh-murphy

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/clodagh

The Dilemma by Sarah Hawthorn

 

A daughter visits the island of Guernsey to unearth horrifying family truths and solve a decades-old mystery surrounding her mother, in this historical page-turner.



1958. Esme, a novelist, finds a potential new literary project. A housemaid named Clara was convicted of murder, perhaps unjustly, amid the ending of World War II and the liberation of Guernsey from Nazi occupation. Esme's trip to Guernsey is an opportunity not only to research the case, but to learn more about her mother's family--as well as to heal from the heartbreak inflicted on her by the man she loved . . .

1915. A teenager marries her childhood sweetheart before he heads off to fight in the Great War. But he doesn't come back, and Jane, presumed a widow, flees Guernsey--devastated by her loss. In London, Jane finds a new life and a new husband--but her past isn't done with her yet.

This absorbing novel follows the parallel paths of two generations of women, and as each is faced with painful decisions and shocking discoveries, a question emerges: Can a lie be forgiven when the truth seems too much to bear? 

What did I think?

A new author to me and quite different from my usual reads. 

I enjoyed this period story set on the island of Guerney. It really sparked my interest and made me want to keep on reading.

Quite difficult to review this book without giving anything away - and I really don't want to spoil it for anyone else.

It transported me back to a different time. And made me think - what would I have done in the same situation.

There is a lot of depth to this story and it feels well researched. Loved the timescale and the interesting characters who certainly took me on a journey.

Someone Elses Honeymoon by Phoebe MacLeod

 

When Charley finds herself suddenly single on Christmas Day it feels like her world has fallen apart.

Forced to move back in with her parents, she embarks on a journey of re-invention. When she meets Ed, who is on honeymoon alone after being jilted at the altar by a bride he's never met, it looks like her life may be taking a turn for the better.

Fate, however, has other ideas, and she and Ed are forced apart.

Will she find her way back to him, or are they just not meant to be?

What did I think?

I hadn't heard of this author before so was excited to read this one.

It was a fun rom com with a great storyline and likeable characters. Two characters who have come out of relationships find themselves brought together with humorous consequences. Made me laugh out loud more than one and loved all the eco warrior stuff. 

An easy read but one that brightened my day. 

A great debut.

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

Author Bio –

Phoebe MacLeod is the author of several popular laugh-out-loud romantic comedies. She mainly sets her books in her home county of Kent and her first new title for Boldwood will be published in November 2022. They will also be republishing her existing titles from August this year.

Social Media Links –  

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/macleod_phoebe

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phoebemacleod21/

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

Bookbub profile: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/phoebe-macleod

Take A Chance on Greece by Sue Roberts

Forgetting your troubles surrounded by golden sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and chiselled abs… what could possibly go wrong?

For Orla, moving in with her dad at twenty-nine after a health scare wasn’t exactly her plan. Neither was finding out he’s been keeping a huge family secret…

Ready to put the entire Mediterranean Sea between herself and her dysfunctional family, she packs her bags and checks in to a charming B&B on a sun-drenched Greek island. But the vines climbing the beautiful yellow front and the glittering blue sea aren’t the only gorgeous things in view. Her neighbour, sexy writer Georgios, is in search of inspiration, and Orla’s caught his eye… if only he would lighten up!

It’s a big fat Greek clash of wills as Orla encourages Georgios to put down his pen and start having fun. Who wouldn’t love a cruise on a pirate ship, complete with rum and fake swords? Her heart melts as she catches a glimmer of a smile… but over Greek wine and freshly made mezze by candlelight, he gets far too serious, urging Orla to talk about her past. However, as soon as Orla shares her secrets, Georgios abruptly ends the evening…

The next day, confused and angry, Orla heads to the harbour to leave the island. But something makes her hesitate. Should she get on the boat and keep running from her problems, or break free from her past and let her glorious Greek summer last forever?

A completely feel-good read about living life to the full! Perfect for fans of Carole Matthews, Jenny Colgan and Sophie Kinsella.

What did I think?

I love Sue's books - you know you are going to be in for a treat and a bit of escapism. Right now I need to be transported somewhere warm and sunny and this book fits the bill.

As usual the descriptions were wonderful - of the location and the scenery, and of course the food. Really does transport you to Greece. I've never been and this makes me want to go even more.

Loved the main character of Orla. After everything she has been through she decides to travel and catch up with things she has missed out on. There is sunshine. And there is romance. What more do you need?

Almost feel like I have been on holiday now I have finished the book.

 

Author Bio:

 

Sue Roberts lives in

Lancashire with her long term partner Derek and has had a lifelong love of

writing, encouraged by winning a school writing competition at the age of 11.

 

She always assumed that

‘one day’ she would write a book, always having a busy household and a job, the

idea remained firmly on the back burner but never forgotten.

 

The inspiration for her first novel came

to her on a holiday to a Greek village. Her daughters had left home and

suddenly the time had come to write that book!

 

https://www.instagram.com/suerobertsauthor/

https://twitter.com/suerobertsautho

 

Sign up to be the first to hear about new releases from Sue Roberts here: https://www.bookouture.com/sue-roberts/

 

Buy Link:

 

Amazon: https://geni.us/B0B1MNGYTDsocial

 

You can sign up for all the best Bookouture deals you'll love at: http://ow.ly/Fkiz30lnzdo

 

   

It's Monday. What Are You Reading?

 

It’s Monday! What Are You Reading? a place to meet up and share what you have been, and are about to be reading over the week. It’s a great post to organise yourself. It’s an opportunity to visit and comment and er… add to your groaning TBR pile! So welcome in everyone. This meme started on J Kaye’s blog and then was hosted by Sheila from Book Journey. Sheila then passed it on to Kathryn here at The Book Date.

What I read last week.

What I'm reading now.

What I'm going to read next.

Readalong - Pernille Hughes

The Pigeonhole - Jean Fullerton

Bookclub - Jenni Fagan and Bonnie Garmus

Elodie's Library of Second Chances by Rebecca Raisin

 

An uplifting story about fresh starts, new beginnings and the power of stories, from the bestselling author of Rosie’s Travelling Tea Shop!

When Elodie applies for the job of librarian in peaceful Willow Grove, she’s looking forward to a new start. As the daughter of a media empire, her every move has been watched for years, and she longs to work with the thing she loves most: books.

It’s a chance to make a real difference too, because she soon realises that there are other people in Willow Grove who might need a fresh start – like the homeless man everyone walks past without seeing, or the divorcée who can’t seem to escape her former husband’s misdeeds.

Together with local journalist Finn, Elodie decides these people have stories that need sharing. What if instead of borrowing books readers could ‘borrow’ a person, and hear the life stories of those they’ve overlooked?

But Elodie isn’t quite sharing her whole story either. As the story of the library’s new success grows, will her own secret be revealed?

What did I think?

I love Rebecca's books - I started with the Cedarwood series and have been catching up with her more recent titles.

Who wouldn't love a story set around a local village library, the library users themselves and others in the village. Made me think you should never judge a person from first appearances - none of us know what each other is going through at that certain point in their lives.

Elodie has turned her back on her old life and moved to Willow Grove to take up a new position at the library. It is her job to turn the library around and give it a new lease of life.

This was a book full of stories - of personal stories which made it such a heart warming read. I was hooked from the start.

Purchase Links

Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Elodies-Library-Second-Chances-heart-warming-ebook/dp/B09YH6YXR9

Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/Elodies-Library-Second-Chances-heart-warming-ebook/dp/B09YH6YXR9

Amazon Aust: https://www.amazon.com.au/Elodies-Library-Second-Chances-heart-warming-ebook/dp/B09YH6YXR9

Author Bio – Rebecca Raisin writes heartwarming romance from her home in sunny Perth, Australia. Her heroines tend to be on the quirky side and her books are usually set in exotic locations so her readers can armchair travel any day of the week. The only downfall about writing about gorgeous heroes who have brains as well as brawn, is falling in love with them – just as well they’re fictional. Rebecca aims to write characters you can see yourself being friends with. People with big hearts who care about relationships and believe in true, once in a lifetime love. Her bestselling novel Rosie’s Travelling Tea Shop has been optioned for film with MRC studios and Frolic Media.

Social Media Links –

https://www.facebook.com/RebeccaRaisinAuthor

www.twitter.com/jaxandwillsmum

https://www.instagram.com/rebeccaraisinwrites/

The Highland Hens by Judy Leigh

 

In the imposing Glen Carrick House overlooking Scotland’s famous Loch Ness, lives eighty-eight-year-old Mimi McKinlay, cared for by her three adult sons. Hamish has inherited his mother’s musical talents, Fin is the responsible brother, and Angus has the complicated and brooding personality to match his dashing good looks.

But what all the brothers share is a concern that their beloved mother is living in her memories of her days on stage, while letting her present days pass her by.

Jess Oliver is at a turning point. Amicably divorced after years of being married, this trip to the Highlands is a first taste of independence. It isn’t long before the beauty and hospitality of Scotland captures her heart.

When Mimi and Jess’s paths cross, a friendship is formed that will change both women’s lives.  And as together they find ways to look forward instead of to the past, long forgotten dreams are within reach, and every new day is fresh with possibilities.

Take a trip to the Highlands with Judy Leigh for an unforgettable story of glorious pasts and fabulous futures, of love, friendship, family and fun. The perfect feel-good novel for all fans of Dawn French, Dee Macdonald and Cathy Hopkins.

Purchase Link - https://amzn.to/3xk9wnd

What did I think?

I always enjoy Judy's books - you are guaranteed a great read. And what a great cover - but then I am slightly biased as I live right next to the Scottish Highlands.

Loved all the descriptions of the Highlands - made me feel right at home. This is a story of family, of relationships and of emotions. Yes there are some sadder parts but they just add to the rich story.

Loved the character of Mimi (yet again the cast of Judy's books are of a slightly older age range) She is a larger than life character.

I laughed a bit. I will admit I cried in places. But overall I thought this was a fabulous read.

Author Bio –

Judy Leigh is the USA Today bestselling author of The Old Girls’ Network and Five French Hens and the doyenne of the ‘it’s never too late’ genre of women’s fiction. She has lived all over the UK from Liverpool to Cornwall, but currently resides in Somerset.

Social Media Links

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100005568258864

Twitter https://twitter.com/JudyLeighWriter

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

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

Bookbub profile: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/judy-leigh