The Sunshine Teashop by Jaimie Admans

 The Sunshine Teashop

Dolly Lymford is having one of those days… 🧁🫖

The kind that starts with dreams of opening a café… and ends with discovering your boyfriend kissing your best friend!

Heartbroken and with nowhere else to go, Dolly accidentally-on-purpose borrows her now-ex-boyfriend’s campervan and drives until the road runs out. This leads her to Thimblenouth, a picture-perfect Yorkshire Dales village where life moves more slowly and the kettle is always on.

After literally bumping into gorgeous local builder Reece Sterling, Dolly begins to feel something she hasn’t in a long time: safe. She also rediscovers her love of baking, filling the campervan with the scent of warm scones and freshly brewed tea. And Reece is always around to share a lemon pie or two...

When Dolly has an idea to open her own pop-up café, Reece is all too happy to help. And as the summer sun begins to warm everything it touches, Dolly wonders if she's finally found a place to call home... maybe even with Reece.

But can she really build a future on borrowed wheels?

A warm, uplifting story of fresh starts, village kindness, and finding love where you least expect it — best enjoyed with tea and cake.🍰 Purchase Link - https://mybook.to/SunshineTeashop

What did I think?

I do love Jaimie's books. They always include a little bit of magic. And this one didn't disappoint.

'This beautiful story is perfect for those who need a sprinkle of fairy dust in their lives. Heartwarming, joyful, with some true laugh out loud parts. I can’t wait for more in the series.' Bestselling author, Rebecca Raisin

This quote from another author (who I also love) sums it up perfectly.

This book was a charming read - the pages turned effortlessly and when I reached the ending (boo) I was left with a warm and fuzzy feeling. Isn't this how every story should end?

I'm not going to give anything away about the story but I will urge you to make a cup of tea, plump up your cushions and curl up on the sofa for the afternoon with this book. You won't regret it.

Author Bio –

Jaimie Admans is the bestselling author of several romantic comedies – including The Little Christmas Shop on Nutcracker Lane and The Chateau of Happily-Ever-Afters. Her new series for Boldwood, The Ever After Street Series, is based on the magical world of fairytales.

Social Media Links –

Facebook: @jaimieadmansbooks

Twitter: @be_the_spark

Instagram: @jaimieadmans1

Newsletter Sign Up: https://bit.ly/JaimieAdmansNews Bookbub profile: @jaimieadmans1

Back Where We Belong - Jo Bartlett

 

Back Where We Belong

Fifteen years ago, one desperate act tore sisters Bex and Briony apart.

Growing up side by side against the backdrop of a feckless father and a hardworking mum, they were inseparable—until Briony’s attempt to save Bex from a disastrous engagement shattered their bond.

Now Bex has the life she dreamed of: a loving family, a new glamping site on the family farm, and roots she’s proud of. Briony, living under the online alias “Holly Day,” drifts from place to place in her van, watching her sister’s happiness from afar.

When their beloved mum falls seriously ill, Bex must track down the sister she hasn’t seen in over a decade. But finding Briony brings more than old wounds—it brings unexpected closeness, new beginnings, and the realisation that some bonds never truly break.

As secrets unravel and hearts tentatively open, Bex and Briony must decide whether they can finally forgive, heal, and find their way back to each other—and to the family they both desperately need. Purchase Link - https://mybook.to/BackWhereWeBelong

What did I think?

This is the second book in The Cornish Bay series - which I have been looking forward to reading.

The first book was called Letting Go Of Yesterday.

Loved the growing story of the 2 sisters. I have a brother and we didn't really speak much for about 20 years. All after a comment which I may or may not have taken the wrong way. And it took for our Mum to become unwell for us to start speaking again. So this storyline interested me personally.

The sisters have to overcome what has happened in the past and move on - something which I have managed to do myself.

This is a story of family, of sadness and of romance - all set against the beautiful backdrop of Cornwall.

I loved it.

Author Bio –

Jo Bartlett is the bestselling author of over nineteen women’s fiction titles. She fits her writing in between her two day jobs as an educational consultant and university lecturer and lives with her family and three dogs on the Kent coast.

Social Media Links –

Facebook: @JoBartlettAuthor

Twitter: @J_B_Writer

Instagram: @jo_bartlett_author

Newsletter Sign Up: https://bit.ly/JoBartlettNews Bookbub profile: @JoBartlett3

Hopes and Dreams at the Chocolate Pot Cafe by Jessica Redland

 

Hopes and Dreams at the Chocolate Pot Café

Sometimes all your hopes and dreams really do come true… ✨🌈

Life at the Chocolate Pot Café has never been sweeter for Tara Porter. Nestled on Castle Street in Whitsborough Bay, her café is thriving, her friendships are close, her foster parents are back where they belong—and she’s finally let herself fall in love with artist Jed Ferguson.

 

For Jed, returning from Australia feels like coming home in every sense. His teenage daughters have settled, his gallery opening is a success, and with Tara by his side, the future looks full of promise.

But the past can’t stay at bay forever.

When Tara’s estranged foster sister reappears, old wounds resurface. And when Jed is reunited with twelve year old Aaron - a boy he once believed was his son - secrets unravel and loyalties are tested.

Now Tara and Jed must decide whether facing the past will shatter everything they’ve built—or hope it gives them the strength and courage to dream again.

Warm, heartfelt and hopeful, Hopes and Dreams at the Chocolate Pot Café is a story of love, forgiveness and second chances.

Purchase Link - https://mybook.to/HopesDreamsatChocolate

 

What did I think?

Firstly. That cover. Doesn't it make you want to pick this book straight up and start reading?? It did for me.

I do love Jessica's books. They are proper feel good stories. The writing is so good - I get lost in the stories. Combined with a fabulous cast of characters and a beautiful setting. A winning formula.

The main character of Tara I loved and was rooting for her from the start. I enjoy a book where I become invested in a character and this is one of them. 

I'm really hoping we don't have to wait too long for the next book in this series.

Author Bio –

Jessica Redland is the million-copy bestselling author of novels, including the Hedgehog Hollow and Escape to the Lakes series. Inspired by her hometown of Scarborough and the Lake District, she writes uplifting women’s fiction of love, friendship and community.

Social Media Links –  

Facebook: @jessicaredlandauthor

Twitter: @JessicaRedland

Instagram: @jessicaredlandauthor

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

Bookbub profile: @jessicaredlandwriter

The Lighthouse by the Sea by Margaret Amatt

 

The Lighthouse by the Sea

His love might be the light she’s looking for

After a string of disasters, music teacher Lottie Ashford is out of options. So when her well-meaning mother suggests she restore an old family property – a crumbling lighthouse on the remote island of Barra – Lottie reluctantly agrees.

Local fitness fanatic Ruaridh Griffin has been unlucky in love. When Lottie turns up at his sister’s B&B asking for help to find a mystery lighthouse, he can’t help wanting to assist – and he’s instantly drawn to her. But getting involved with a visitor is one thing he’s sworn never to do again.

As Barra weaves its quiet magic, Lottie begins to feel at home for the first time in years. Worse still, she’s falling for someone she’s not sure feels the same. And despite Ruaridh’s best intentions, Lottie is getting under his skin, making his promise to himself harder than ever to keep.

If this is love, Ruaridh must face his fear of being burned again – and Lottie must decide whether her future lies on the island or somewhere else entirely.

♥ This is the second book in the Love on the Edge - Barra series, but it can be read as a standalone.

♥ Set on the Hebridean island of Barra in Scotland with fun, romance, drama, and a guaranteed happy ending, The Lighthouse by the Sea has a bit of steam and lots of heart.

Purchase Link - https://mybook.to/lighthousebythesea

What did I think?

Anyone that knows me knows that I love a lighthouse. I find them full of mystery - maybe I have read too many stories about them and some of them have been quite creepy!!

I was excited to be returning to Barra. I have been lucky enough to visit a few of the Scottish Islands so I have a very clear picture in my head of the scenery, the villages and the weather!

This time we meet up again with Ruaridh (a name I can say but can never spell - doesn't help that there are many spelling variations of this name) and it was good to hear his story.

Now I loved the Glenbriar series and this new series is looking as though it is going to be equally as good. A slow burn romance in one of the most beautiful parts of the country. I'm already excited for part 3.

Author Bio –

Margaret Amatt is a bestselling Scottish author, professional daydreamer, and certified chocolate addict. She’s been making up stories for as long as she can remember – some of them even made it onto paper (and, tragically, onto floppy disks that no computer can read anymore). After two decades of writing in secret, she finally unleashed her first novel on the world in 2021, kicking off a ten-book series set on the stunning Isle of Mull.

But why stop there? She’s also the creator of The Glenbriar Series, where romance, small-town drama, and a pinch of spice keep readers coming back for more. This series is still going strong, with more books planned!

Margaret has spent her whole life in Scotland’s breath-taking Highland Perthshire, despite her entire extended family coming from the Glasgow area. Her books are romantic and emotional, sweet and funny, and each one can be read as a standalone, but long-time readers know the joy of familiar faces popping up, adding to the chaos.

So, if you love relatable characters, sizzling chemistry, and plenty of banter, you’re in the right place – just don’t blame Margaret when you stay up way too late reading just one more chapter.

Social Media Links –

https://www.margaretamatt.com/subscribe

https://www.facebook.com/MargaretAmattAuthor

https://www.instagram.com/margaret_amatt_author

https://ko-fi.com/margaretamattauthor/shop

The Barefoot Bookshop on the Beach by Rebecca Raisin

 

When Harper sees an ad for what must surely be the most idyllic job in the world, she’s almost tempted. But she can’t possibly leave her bookshop job in London, or her burgeoning career as a successful Bookstagram influencer… That is, until a casual remark about a debut author lands her in deep trouble.

So she applies. After all, now she’s got nothing to lose. Except maybe her heart, she realises, as she lands on the beautiful island of Ésperé in the Seychelles and finds herself seemingly surrounded by beautiful men. Including the hotel owner, moody but heartbreakingly-handsome Xavier.

But inter-staff relations are strictly forbidden. And Harper has enough on her plate, with a member of staff missing and a wily band of expats to contend with. Plus, she’s determined to make the bookshop and new start the success they deserve to be… Even if – under the blazing sunshine – the romance novel superfan in her can’t help but hope the boss of the hotel might not be quite the grump he seems…

What did I think?

I knew as soon as I saw the cover that I wanted to read this book - who wouldn't. The colours looked so inviting and promised so much escapism from the Scottish Winter.

And I wasn't wrong.

I love Rebecca's book and her writing style ever since I discovered her Cedarwood series.

I loved the location, the humour and the quirky cast of characters. I want to read books that take me to somewhere new, to entertain me and help me unwind. And this book did all that.

It was also bang on the money with the story based around AI. Very relevant in todays climate and a topic that is becoming more difficult to ignore.

I won't give anything away about the plot other than to say I now wish I had the money for a holiday in the Seychelles.

Escape to Seahaven Bay by Nicola May

 

Escape To Seahaven Bay

The heartwarming new novel from the author of the million-copy bestselling Cockleberry Bay series

Seahaven Bay has always been a place where the sparkling tides bring laughter, love and a lot of fun. But when Rita Jory’s beloved husband Archie dies in a tragic accident, she’s left alone on their failing Cornish farm with nothing but her grieving heart, a mountain of debt and some very badly behaved goats. Faced with selling the home she loves or finding a way to make it pay, Rita has a moment of desperate inspiration. She decides to transform her beloved Seahaven Farm into a place where broken souls can heal by the sea.

With help from her sharp-tongued mother-in-law, loyal best friend, daughter and new friends, the rundown farm soon blossoms into a haven of healing, creativity and community. Rita dares to believe her future might still shimmer with possibility – and even admits her growing attraction to Jago, the gorgeous neighbouring farmer with whom the Jorys had a decades-long feud.

But just as Rita begins to find peace, long-buried secrets about Archie’s past begin to surface, forcing her to question everything she believed about the life they built together.

Rita must discover the truth and decide if she’s ready to open her heart again – to love, to hope, and to the possibility that even after loss, life can still be full of surprises.

A tender, uplifting and hilarious tale of resilience, friendship and finding light in the darkest moments, perfect for fans of Jill Mansell, Jojo Moyes and Amanda Prowse.

Purchase Links –

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Escape-Seahaven-Bay-Nicola-May-ebook/dp/B0FGB43VLH

https://www.amazon.com/Escape-Seahaven-Bay-Nicola-May-ebook/dp/B0FGB43VLH

What did I think?

Now I haven't read a Nicola May book for some time - in fact I'm not sure I finished the last series (hides in shame) But this book is the start if a brand new series so thought it was the right place to dive back in.

I have to say this was a joy to read - a perfect tonic for me.  Loved the cast of characters - what a bunch of strong females who made me smile throughout the story. Love a setting by the sea - I will be forever grateful to have the coast on my doorstep and just seeing the sea makes me feel better - it is true what they say about vitamin sea.

A touch of mystery and intrigue just to spice things up a wee bit.

But the best part for me is that (fingers crossed) we don't have to wait too long for book 2. I am fully invested in these ladies and the farm and need to know what happens next.

Author Bio –

Nicola May is an international bestselling author renowned for her heartwarming and humorous romantic comedies. With twenty books to her name, her work has captured readers' hearts around the world, has been translated into fifteen languages and consistently ranks in the top 100 of Amazon's Kindle bestseller charts. As a self-published author, she achieved the remarkable feat of reaching number one on Amazon twice, and has been a strong advocate for indie authors, pushing for a dedicated chart for them in The Bookseller magazine. Now signed to Storm Publishing, Nicola continues to write heartfelt rom-coms with her signature blend of warmth and wit.

 

Social Media Links –

www.nicolamay.com

i:author_nicola

t: @nicolamay1

f: NicolaMayAuthor

Dinner at Wisteria House by Sue Roberts

On a peaceful avenue stands the once-grand Wisteria House. Now it’s split into apartments, occupied by strangers who rarely say hello. Could one last dinner party bring it to life again?

Ninety-year-old Alice has one last to fill her new home with light and laughter, just like when her husband was alive. So she sets out her favourite plates, opens an old recipe book, and sends invitations to the neighbours she’s certain need friendship just as much as she does…

Declan hasn’t believed he deserves to follow his dreams since he tragically lost his sister.

Jess has been working herself to the bone to provide for her little daughter and has no time for joy in her own life.

Mark, a widower, has been isolated in his grief for so long.

Over a shared meal, Alice reminds each of them that sharing stories keeps those we love alive, and that time is our most precious gift. As they hug goodbye, everyone feels lighter than they have in years. Little do they know Alice has her own secret reason for gathering them together…

The next morning the tenants receive terrible news. Is their first dinner party destined to be the last? With Wisteria House under threat, can they come together to save the one place that has only just started to feel like home? Or will they lose their little community just when they need it most?

This absolutely gorgeous, emotional and uplifting novel of finding friendship in the most unexpected of places is perfect for fans of The Last List of Mabel Beaumont, Sally Page and Kate Storey.

What did I think?

I have read quite a few of Sue's books but I found this one quite different from her earlier titles. But in a good way. I really enjoyed this one.

Loved the setting of Wisteria House - it was a character in the book itself. The characters were so well written and the story so uplifting.

This book contained a few of my favourite things when I'm reading - a dual timeline and short chapters. I wasn't in a rush to read the whole story  but the short chapters made it feel a breeze.

A proper feel good story from start to finish - of friendships, of second chances and optimism.

A lovely read.

Tomorrow Starts Today by Jessica Redland

 Tomorrow Starts Today

It's never too late to find yourself... 💫

When she unexpectedly loses her husband, Yvonne Kellerman's world turns quiet and grey. Five years on, her days are filled with the gentle chatter of her loyal parrot, Trevor, and the comfort of her crafting table—but she can’t shake the feeling that life is slipping her by and Yvonne feels lost and lonelier than ever.

When she joins the local crafting club at Willowdale Village Hall, Yvonne expects nothing more than a few afternoons of sewing. Instead, amongst the other local crafters, she discovers friendship, laughter and a renewed appreciation for her gorgeous Lake District home. It’s a reminder that she isn’t alone and, with each new stitch, her confidence returns, and so does her belief that it's never too late for fresh starts and new beginnings.

When a familiar face from her past reappears, Yvonne finds herself standing at a crossroads: will she protect her heart, or embrace the chance to love—and truly live—again?

Purchase Link - https://mybook.to/TomorrowStartsToday

What did I think?

I haven't read one of Jessica's books for quite a while now I was really looking forward to this book.

I love the Lake District but it usually is a place I simply drive passed as I make my way from Scotland to Wales. But as it so happens we are driving down to the Lake District soon for a long weekend. I'm super excited about it.

I felt quite a connection to some of the themes in this book. I too was quite crafty (sadly not so much now) and I joined a local crafting group when my boys were younger. Almost 20 years on we are all still friends even if we don't see so much of each other.

I loved the gentle storyline - it was so uplifting. Goes to show that life needn't stop or slow down as you get older. I have to say I am more active and more likely to try new things than I ever was.

I will certainly be recommending this book.

Author Bio –

Jessica Redland is the million-copy bestselling author of novels, including the Hedgehog Hollow and Escape to the Lakes series. Inspired by her hometown of Scarborough and the Lake District, she writes uplifting women’s fiction of love, friendship and community.

Social Media Links – 

Facebook: @jessicaredlandauthor

Twitter: @JessicaRedland

Instagram: @jessicaredlandauthor

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

Bookbub profile: @jessicaredlandwriter

A Merry Little Christmas by Rosie Green

 

A Merry Little Christmas

Festive excitement is in the air, the tree is sparkling on the village green and Christmas music is making even the most hardened cynic feel a little sentimental – but one Little Duck Pond Café favourite is feeling anything but romantic! Is this destined to be a festive season best forgotten? Or could Katja’s dream of a merry little Christmas possibly end up coming true?

What did I think?

A festive instalment from the Little Duck Pond Cafe series. This was a delightful short read - perfect at this time of year when so many of us seem to be chasing our tails getting ready for the holidays.

This year I am feeling very laid back and a little ambivalent about Christmas. Its not that I don't like this time of year - but after several Christmas's spent on my own I am now in my new home, have a lovely partner and am just enjoying the simple things. I'm not rushing about the shops buying gifts for everyone and overpriced food. I am looking forward to some chilled time off work, getting out and about to do some walking and plenty of cheese and mince pies. I do not have the need to have the flat just so, I have no visitors and I'm enjoying the quiet time.

And this book helped to ease myself into feeling a bit festive. I loved the air of mystery in the relationship between Katya and Caleb and it made me think about what is important in a relationship.

Looking forward to the next book in the series.

Purchase Link

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Merry-Little-Christmas-Duck-Pond-ebook/dp/B0DSGPTPRB

https://www.amazon.com/Merry-Little-Christmas-Duck-Pond-ebook/dp/B0DSGPTPRB

Author Bio – Rosie Green is the author of the popular Little Duck Pond Café series, set in the fictional village of Sunnybrook. Watch out for lots more café drama and romance in 2026, including ‘The Other Lizzie Bennet’, which will be published in January!

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

https://www.instagram.com/rosiegreen_author/