Perfect Moments at Duck Pond Cottage by Della Galton

 Perfect Moments at Duck Pond Cottage

When two best friends decide to share their wedding day, what could possibly go wrong?

Jade is over the moon to be tying the knot alongside her best friend, Sarah, at the stunning Bluebell Cliff Hotel in Dorset—a venue where no detail is too small and no expense is spared in the pursuit of perfection.

But as the big day draws closer, so do the complications.

A long-lost relative, a troublesome brother, and some wildly unexpected animal antics all threaten to derail the brides’ dream celebrations.

With emotions running high and chaos around every corner, their perfect day begins to unravel.

Can love and friendship hold everything together when it matters most?

Purchase Link - https://mybook.to/2jl2z1

Perfect Moments at Duck Pond Cottage

Author Bio –

Della Galton is the bestselling author of several romantic comedies set around the Dorset beaches and the beautiful New Forest. Her stories feature strong female friendship, quirky characters and very often the animals she loves. When she is not writing she enjoys walking her dogs around the beautiful Dorset countryside.

Social Media Links – https://www.facebook.com/DailyDella/ https://x.com/DellaGalton https://www.instagram.com/dellagalton/ https://www.amazon.co.uk/stores/Della-Galton/author/B001K7P4XK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1773152407&sr=8-1&shoppingPortalEnabled=true

What did I think?

It has been a while since I read a Della Galton book - I majorly lost my reading mojo for  while whilst life well and truly got in the way.

And how better to get it back with a gentle comforting read - and this book was like a hug in paper form.

Two best friends sharing a wedding day. Include a few mishaps. And a few animals. And you have an entertaining read. Of course the path of true love never runs smooth - so there will be a few hiccups along the way. But nothing that cannot be overcome. Love and friendship will find a way.

Although this is part of a series I think it would work just as well as a standalone title. 

 Bio –

Della Galton is the bestselling author of several romantic comedies set around the Dorset beaches and the beautiful New Forest. Her stories feature strong female friendship, quirky characters and very often the animals she loves. When she is not writing she enjoys walking her dogs around the beautiful Dorset countryside.

Social Media Links – https://www.facebook.com/DailyDella/ https://x.com/DellaGalton https://www.instagram.com/dellagalton/ https://www.amazon.co.uk/stores/Della-Galton/author/B001K7P4XK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1773152407&sr=8-1&shoppingPortalEnabled=true

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 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.

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

Starlight over Hollyhock Farm by Georgina Troy

 

Starlight Over Hollyhock Farm

Will sparks fly at Hollyhock Farm this summer?

When a hit TV series sets up camp at Hollyhock Farm, Jersey’s tranquil lanes are turned upside down. Radio DJ Callum Preston is used to high-maintenance guests – but nothing prepares him for interviewing the star-of-the-hour actor Riley Sharp, or meeting his beautiful, overworked PA, Tasha Dodds.

As Callum and Tasha grow closer in the island sunshine, the farm becomes the backdrop for more than just the cameras. But with paparazzi scandals brewing and Callum's family thrust into the spotlight, will their Jersey summer end in heartbreak – or be the start of something wonderful?

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

What did I think?

Firstly - what a gorgeous cover. I have only seen a field of lavender once and would love to walk through one. This looks so inviting.

This is the 4th book in the Hollyhock Farm series. I enjoyed returning to Jersey and this book was perfect to curl up with on the sofa and while away a few hours.

The introduction of Riley certainly livens things up a bit - but in a good way - made for entertaining reading - set against the more laid back (and patient Tasha)

A perfect costal escape to an island I would love to visit.

Author Bio –

Georgina Troy writes bestselling uplifting romantic escapes and sets her novels on the island of Jersey where she was born and has lived for most of her life. She lives close to the beach with her husband and three rescue dogs. When she’s not writing she can be found walking with the dogs or chatting to her friends over coffee at one of the many beachside cafés on the island.

 

Social Media Links –  

Facebook: @GeorginaTroyAuthor

Twitter: @GeorginaTroy

Instagram: @georginatroyauthor

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

Bookbub profile: @GeorginaTroy

Fireworks at Pennycress Inn by Sarah Hope

 

Fireworks at Pennycress Inn

🍂 Sparks are flying in more ways than one...

After years of juggling teaching with volunteering, Polly is finally ready for a change. When she lands her dream job at Meadowfield Nature Reserve – with the promise of a promotion in three months’ time – she trades in the stress of the classroom for the beautiful autumn days of the Cotswolds countryside.

Pennycress Inn is the perfect base for her fresh start: charming, cosy and filled with friendly faces. But everything changes when Zac, her attractive but infuriating ex-colleague, arrives. He’s here to take up a post at the reserve too – and is also staying at the inn! Worse still, the promotion Polly was counting on is suddenly up for grabs – and Zac’s her biggest rival.

With three months to prove herself, Polly must navigate village life, unexpected emotions and a career-defining challenge. As tension simmers and fireworks fly, will Meadowfield become the place she truly finds where she belongs – or will she be forced to walk away from everything she’s dreamed of?

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

What did I think?

This is the 3rd book in the Pennycress Inn series which I am really enjoying - both the storyline and the characters.

Polly is looking for change in her life and so goes for a new job at a wildlife reserve - totally oblivious that an ex colleague (and enemy) is also in the running for the position.

This is a cosy rivals to lovers story - in a beautiful Cotswold setting.

My life is quite hectic right now - but this was the perfect book for a little down time. I'm back in a familiar location surrounded by familiar faces - what is there not to like.

Looking forward to book 4.

Author Bio –

Sarah Hope is the author of many successful romance novels, including the bestselling Cornish Bakery series. Sarah lives in Central England with her two children and an array of pets and enjoys escaping to the seaside at any opportunity.

 

Social Media Links – 

Facebook: @HappinessHopeDreams

Twitter: @SarahHope35

Instagram: @Sarah_Hope_Writes

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

Bookbub profile: @SarahHope

Letting Go of Yesterday by Jo Bartlett

Letting Go of Yesterday

Sometimes the only way forward… is to go back.

When Rowan Bellamy’s marriage collapses in spectacular style, she retreats with her two children, Bella and Theo, to the last place she ever wanted to return—her windswept Cornish hometown of Port Agnes. Taking the headteacher role at the local primary school is the easy part. Facing village gossip, curious neighbours, and old flames? Not so much.

Especially when one of those flames turns out to be Nathan Lark — the boy who broke her heart and the man who now has a reputation as bruised as her own. With his young nephew Leo a pupil in Rowan’s school, she and Nathan are thrown into each other’s lives once more. And whether she likes it or not, the chemistry between them is impossible to ignore.

As salty sea air begins to soothe old wounds and Port Agnes slowly feels like home again, Rowan must decide if she’s brave enough to let go of the past and open her heart one more time.

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

What did I think?

I was excited that Jo has brought out a new series. I loved the Cornish Midwife and the Cornish Country Hospital - so I am really looking forward to this one.

This is a story of second chances in beautiful Cornwall as Rowan returns to her home town with her 2 children after the end of her marriage. I could sort of relate as my marriage broke down a few years ago and I have just moved to a new town (only 10 miles down the road) and bought myself a new place to turn into my home.

So for this reason I found this story quite an emotional read - but was really rooting for Rowan - especially when Nathan came on the scene.

I cannot wait to catch up with her journey in the next book.

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

Meet Me Under the Northern Lights by Mandy Baggot

 

Meet Me Under the Northern Lights

Can one kiss melt a cold, broken heart?

When career-focused Chloe Bellamy is sent to Iceland on a last-minute work trip, it’s her big chance to prove she deserves a seat at the top.

But there’s one problem, she may have embellished her CV a little… saying she speaks Icelandic when she doesn’t! And now, to add to her woes, she’s landed with no place to stay.

Gunnar Eriksson has a habit of saving people. First, when he rescued a young boy from a volcano and offered him a forever home. Then opening his door and welcoming in a spirited yet accident-prone Octogenarian. Now Gunnar has somehow tied himself to Chloe who needs all the help she can get but, for some reason, is reluctant to accept it.

Neither of them are looking for love, but under Iceland’s spell, and with a little extra help from those around them, something begins to shift. Could one kiss beneath the Northern Lights change everything?

This Christmas, escape to Iceland for festive feels, unexpected friendships and maybe even a chance at love.

What did I think?

I'm thinking it is still a little too early for festive reads but the title mentions Northern Lights (or the Merry Dancers) as we call them locally. I am lucky to live high enough in Scotland to see them quite regularly. No matter how many times I see them I am still amazed by the wonders of nature. 

But I have never been to Iceland - it is on my bucket list. Even more so after reading this story.

I won't be giving any spoilers about the plot - instead I will tell you what I particularly enjoyed.

The setting - both magical and festive.

The chemistry between Gunnar and Chloe. You can't help linking them both.

The humour. I

As much as I like a gritty dram I do so love a book that makes me smile. And this one certainly delivered on that point.

Add this one to your festive TBR pile now.

Purchase Link

https://mybook.to/UndertheNorthernLights

Author Bio –

Mandy Baggot is a bestselling romance writer who loves giving readers that happy-ever-after. From sunshine romantic comedies set in Greece, to cosy curl-up winter reads, she's bringing gorgeous heroes and strong heroines readers can relate to. Mandy splits her time between Salisbury, Wiltshire and Corfu, Greece and has a passion for books, food, racehorses and all things Greek!

Social Media Links –  

Facebook: @MandyBaggotAuthor

Twitter: @MandyBaggot

Instagram: @MandyBaggot

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

Bookbub profile: @MandyBaggot

Together Again at the Cornish Country Hospital by Jo Bartlett

 

Don't miss the next instalment in the Cornish Country Hospital series from top 20 bestseller Jo Bartlett. Perfect for fans of Grey's Anatomy and Doc Martin!

A lost love…

A&E Nurse Amy Spencer lives a very ordinary life in Port Kara. She loves her job at the hospital and has a great group of friends, but there is something or someone missing from her life. Amy’s tried dating but no one ever compares with the one boy that got away – Lijah Byrne.

A surprise arrival…

Lijah’s life since he left Port Kara has been what dreams are made of. But lately Lijah has started to feel hollow – the fame and celebrity he once craved now makes him feel trapped. The only place he’s ever felt safe is Port Kara… so maybe it’s time to go back home?

A reunion written in the stars.

When Amy bumps into Lijah again, she only sees the boy she once loved with all her heart. But their lives are so different now. Amy knows a rekindling of their past love will end in heartbreak, but she can’t give up her second chance to be with the man she loves.

Another brilliantly emotional and uplifting read guaranteed to have you laughing and reaching for the tissues. If you love Doc Martin, you will love this! Perfect for fans of Jessica Redland, Holly Martin and Heidi Swain.

What did I think?

This is the 5th book in the Cornish Country Hospital and I'm loving it so I was chuffed to be invited ton take part in this blog tour.

You don't need to have read these books in order - or to have read them all - to enjoy this story - in which Amy and Lijah are the main characters. I thought theirs was such a sweet story spanning many years. A story of second chance romance. Will they be able to rekindle their relationship? If so - will it last?

So many questions. You will just have to read the story to discover the answer. 

I loved returning to Port Kara. To see old friends and new faces. A delightful and warm story to while away a few hours. Perfection.

Praise for Jo Bartlett:

'Stunning setting, wonderful characters, and oozing with warmth. A triumph from Jo Bartlett.' Bestselling author, Jessica Redland

'Perfectly written and set in the beating heart of a community, this story is a wonderful slice of Cornish escapism.' Bestselling author, Helen J Rolfe

'I was drawn in from the first word, I’ve laughed and cried, what a really lovely story' ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reader Review

'I would highly recommend this book for a bit of fantastic escapism and love conquering all.' ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reader Review

'A heart-warming tale which I enjoyed reading very much.' ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reader Review

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