Snowflakes and Secrets in the Scottish Highlands by Donna Ashcroft

 

Step into the cosy Scottish village of Christmas where you’ll find plenty of secrets, romance and mulled wine! And join Merry McKenzie as she stays at her Aunt Ava’s cottage for the winter festivities to try and mend her broken heart…

 

Thirty-one-year-old Merry is escaping to the Scottish Highlands for Christmas. Heartbroken by the death of her father, the man who raised her single-handedly, she needs some time to heal. Hiding away at Chestnut Cottage with only her Aunt Ava’s menagerie of pets for company seems like the perfect way to spend a peaceful December. But when she arrives, Merry discovers some curious instructions from her aunt asking her to organise Secret Santa gifts for the residents of Christmas village.

 

Merry’s determined to try and carry out her aunt’s festive task. But on her first night in the little cottage everything goes wrong – including upsetting the handsome local vet Theo Ellis-Lee when he arrives to assist with a crazed turkey and the mischievous rabbit who’s torn apart her aunt’s gift list. Merry is completely out of her comfort zone and it doesn’t help that Theo is both infuriatingly cheerful and insanely attractive.

 

Merry’s plans for a quiet break are quickly thwarted as Theo starts coming by every day to check on the unruly animals, and she can’t deny he sets her pulse racing. And, one by one, the friendly locals draw her out of her shell with cosy cups of tea, warm words and laughter-filled evenings in the pub. She finds herself embracing the challenge of finding the perfect gift for each of the kind-hearted people on her list. When Theo offers to help, sparks fly between them. But when the Secret Santa project forces Merry to face her heartache, she’s not sure she’s ready for a fresh start.

 

At a crossroads in her life, will Merry decide to go home and hide from her problems or will she open her heart and stay in Christmas village?

 

A gorgeous, winter romance to lose yourself in this Christmas. Perfect for fans of Nicola May, Trisha Ashley and Debbie Macomber – and best accompanied by a hot chocolate!

What did I think?

 Books set in the Scottish Highland are a big yes for me - mainly because I live so close so can picture the settings and scenery.

Really getting in the swing of the festive reads now - feels more appropriate now that the weather is getting colder, and the fire is on in the evenings.

Such a delightful and charming book as we follow Merry (yes really!) as she relocates from down south to the Highlands to look after her aunt's cottage and menagerie of animals whilst she is abroad.

Thats when Secret Santa enters the story and Merry has to get involved and take part. 

Of course, there is a love interest, and this makes the book really sparkle.

This book left me with such a warm glow when I finished - absolutely loved it.

Author Bio

Donna Ashcroft was born in London, England and grew up in Buckinghamshire. She went to university in Lancashire and, among other things, worked as a copywriter, buyer, waitress, secretary and marketing manager.

Donna was shortlisted for the RNA Debut Romantic Novel of the Year in 2019, has had nine books published with Bookouture and her tenth is due out in September 2022.

Donna loves a happy ending and is never happier than when she's escaping into a romance novel or movie. When she's not reading or writing she'll probably be found hoovering ... or negotiating with her two teenagers about who is doing the washing up.

 

Social Media

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Donnashc

Website: http://donna-writes.co.uk/

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

 

Just Date and See by Portia MacIntosh

 

Billie is looking forward to a quiet, man-free Christmas. It’s just a shame her family doesn't feel the same way…

With a house full of unexpected (and unwanted) guests, Billie needs to find the perfect escape to get away from the chaos.

So when her dating app recommends a week of singles nights in her area, Billie decides that braving these events has to be better than making conversation with her dad’s new wife, dealing with her mum's mid-life crisis or witnessing her sister flirting with her insufferably arrogant next-door neighbour.

While this is definitely not the festive season she had planned, between disco bowling and boozy bingo, little does Billie know that she may find love this year after all - she'll just have to date and see...

Fall in love with the perfect laugh-out-loud festive read from top 10 bestseller Portia MacIntosh.

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

What did I think?

I'm telling myself that it isn't too early to start the festive reads.

This was a fun read from start to finish - such witty writing kept me amused. I must admit I think I laughed out loud more than once. A perfect rom com of a read.

Loved the characters and this book is like a perfect Christmas gift - the story keeps on giving with each layer of paper to remove.

If you are wanting a funny, lighthearted but easy read then this is the book for you. Portia always delivers with her stories and this one is no exception. If you can hang on till nearer the holidays then all the better.....

Author Bio –

Portia MacIntosh is the bestselling author of over 20 romantic comedy novels. From disastrous dates to destination weddings, Portia’s romcoms are the perfect way to escape from day to day life, visiting sunny beaches in the summer and snowy villages at Christmas time. Whether it’s southern Italy or the Yorkshire coast, Portia’s stories are the holiday you’re craving, conveniently packed in between the pages.

Formerly a journalist, Portia has left the city, swapping the music biz for the moors, to live the (not so) quiet life with her husband and her dog in Yorkshire.

Social Media Links

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/PortiaMacIntosh

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

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

Bookbub profile: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/portia-macintosh

The Three Loves of Sebastian Cooper by Zoe Folbigg

New from the NUMBER ONE bestselling author of The Note.

As the crowds gather for charming and charismatic Seb Cooper’s funeral, three women sit in the congregation, mourning his loss.

First there is Clair, Seb’s wife and partner of twenty years, and mother of his two children. Furious at Seb for dying and leaving their children without a father, Clair isn’t sure of her place, and has been left baffled and bemused by the conflicting stories of Seb’s last days.

Then there’s Desiree, the woman Seb left Clair for. Heartbroken, self-conscious, and wondering if she made a mistake coming today.

And the third and noisiest mourner of all is Noemie – Seb’s lover and the last woman to see him alive.

Three women who loved Seb in their own different ways.

Three women whose lives have changed forever.

But only one woman knows what really happened at the end…and only one truly had his heart…

Bestseller Zoe Folbigg returns with a utterly compelling and page-turning tale of love, betrayal, family and unlikely friendships. Perfect for fans of Liane Moriarty, Celeste Ng and JoJo Moyes.

Purchase Link - https://amzn.to/3nQKt71

Author Bio –

Zoë Folbigg is the bestselling author of four novels including the chart-topping The Note. She had a broad career in journalism, writing for magazines and newspapers from Cosmopolitan to The Guardian and Sunday Times Style, plus a weekly column in Fabulous magazine. Previously published by Aria, her first book for Boldwood will be published in September 2022. She married Train Man (star of The Note) and lives with him and their children in Hertfordshire.

What did I think?

I have been really looking forward to reading this book - and I wasn't disappointed.

This is a book about 3 different love stories - each one very different. Three women's lives come together at the funeral of the man that they have all loved. 

It is also a life story. I tried not to like Seb as he was a bit of a cad during his life - but there was something so appealing about him. 

Loved all the different stories and timelines and they kept me guessing. Such a well-drawn cast of characters too.

I would go as far as to say that this is one of my favourite reads of the year so far.

Social Media Links –  

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/zoefolbigg

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

Bookbub profile: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/zoe-folbigg 

The Intruder by Daniel Hurst

Getting into their house was easy. The hard part was getting out.

Maria and William seem to have it all. Two happy children. A beautiful house. A thriving business.

But when their home is invaded by David, an ex-employee with a score to settle, the couple face a terrifying fight to survive.

During the course of one hellish night, David picks apart their carefully constructed life. Secrets are unearthed, truths revealed.

And soon David begins to wonder if he’s bitten off more than he can chew – because he’s discovering Maria and William are not the defenceless couple he imagined. By the time he realises who these people really are, it may already be too late…

Who will make it out alive?

One couple. One intruder. Several shocking secrets… 

Daniel Hurst writes psychological thrillers and loves to tell tales about unusual things happening to normal people. He has written all his life, making the progression from handing scribbled stories to his parents as a boy to writing full length novels in his thirties. He lives in the North West of England and when he isn’t writing, he is usually watching a game of football in a pub where his wife can’t find him.

What did I think?

I was introduced to Daniels books through the 20 Minutes series - I haven't yet finished the series but that is a plus as I still have some to look forward to.

I enjoy Daniels punchy writing style - short catchy chapters which make you feel like you are steaming through his books.

This story kept me on the edge of my seat - I am no good in second guessing what is going to happen next. Plenty of suspense and drama along the way.

An easy read but a totally engaging one.

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

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/dhurstbooks

Website:  https://www.danielhurstbooks.com/

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.

Didn't manage to finish anything last week sadly.

What I'm reading now.

What I'm going to read next.

Bookclub - Sara Sheridan and Ann Cleeves

Audio - Robert Bryndza

Lost Luggage by Samantha Tonge

 

One lost suitcase. Two strangers. And a notebook that will change lives.

For almost fifty years, sisters Dolly and Greta have lived together – getting each other through the good times and the bad.

Except this year, Greta isn’t there and Dolly is feeling lost and alone. In memory of her sister, Dolly heads to the lost luggage auction where she and Greta go each Christmas. But her bid reveals a gift she never imagined.

Amongst the clothes is the notebook of a reclusive woman who has hardly been outside for an entire year, but who isn’t ready to give up on life. The notebook’s contents resonate with Dolly. With the support of her neighbours, retired Leroy and eleven year old Flo, Dolly decides to take on the year of firsts Phoebe had planned.

But, can you have a year of firsts when you’re seventy-two? And is Dolly ready to discover the notebook’s secrets, or are some secrets better left lost at the airport?

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

What did I think?

Was really looking forward to reading this book - you are always in for a treat with Samanthas books. 

I found this story was really quite different from anything else I have read before. Love the idea of a lost luggage auction - you would never know what you might end up with. Also loved the fact that the main character was 72 years old - not often you get that either. 

A fab and eclectic cast of characters - I fell in love with them all.

I don't want to give anything away but I found this book was both uplifting and emotional. So many beautiful elements in this story which makes for a wonderful read. 

Highly recommended.

Author Bio –

Samantha Tonge is the bestselling and award-winning author of over 15 romantic fiction titles published by HQ, and most recently Aria. Her first book for Boldwood, Under One Roof, was published in February 2022 and her move to Boldwood marks a broadening of her writing into multi-generational woman’s fiction. She lives in Manchester with her family.

Social Media Links –  

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/SamTongeWriter

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

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

Bookbub profile: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/samantha-tonge

Death on the Menu by Emma Davies

 

About the Book: 

Francesca Eve has planned a showstopping funeral supper to say goodbye in style, but the last thing she expects is a murder on the menu…

When elderly millionaire and eccentric entrepreneur Clarence Lightman dies, his nearest and dearest gather one final time at Justice House, Clarence’s beautiful country estate, for the reading of his will. But the day ends in uproar when it is revealed that whoever solves a series of complex clues will inherit everything. Will one of Clarence’s disagreeable children outwit everyone else for the fortune, or could his devoted housekeeper or even Francesca herself win the day?

Francesca knows she should stick to the kitchen and stay out of this lethal game, but she is unwillingly drawn into the mystery when she finds one of Clarence’s sons, blood pooling from a deadly thwack to the head, shoved into the larder. Somebody is clearly not playing fair, and Francesca feels sure that they won’t stop until all of the competition has been eliminated.

Trapped in the game until all the riddles are solved, Francesca must solve the clues and find the ruthless killer to protect herself and her fellow innocent guests. But she can’t trust anyone. Fran must use all her wits, not only to hunt down the truth, but to stay alive…

An addictive cozy crime novel packed with twists you won’t expect. If you love Faith Martin, M.C. Beaton and The Thursday Murder Club you’ll adore this thrilling mystery.

 What did I think?

This is the 3rd book in the Adam and Eve series which I am absolutely loving.

In this book Fran is called to cater for a funeral supper for a man who made his money writing books and inventing games. And this book was certainly full of puzzles. At the reading of his will he leaves his estranged family one last puzzle to solve. At risk is their inheritance. No pressure then!!

An entertaining read in which you could certainly feel the family tensions. Already looking forward to the next book in the series.

Author Bio

After a varied career, Emma Davies once worked for a design studio where she was asked to provide a fun and humorous (and not necessarily true) anecdote for their website. She wrote the following: 'I am a bestselling novelist currently masquerading as a thirty something mother of three.' Well the job in the design studio didn't work out but she's now a forty something mother of three and is happy to report the rest of her dream came true.

After many years as a finance manager she now writes full time, and is far happier playing with words than numbers. She lives with her husband, three children, and two guinea pigs in rural Shropshire where she writes in all the gaps in between real life. It's a county she adores, her love of its beautiful people and landscapes providing endless inspiration for her books, and in fact the only thing that would make Shropshire more idyllic is if it were by the sea.

Pop over to her website www.emmadaviesauthor.com where, amongst other things, you can read about her passion for Pringles and singing loudly in the car. You can also wave to her on twitter @EmDaviesAuthor or find her on Facebook (a little too often than is good for her).

 

Social Media

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/EmDaviesAuthor

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

Website: www.emmadaviesauthor.com

Bookouture Email Sign-up: https://www.bookouture.com/emma-davies

 

Janet Jackson's Yorkshire B and B by Becky Papworth

 

Yorkshire lass and dental receptionist Janet Jackson has just taken a big risk. Using all her savings, she’s turned her spacious garage into a Bed and Breakfast, slapped a sign on it and without any experience at all, is now awaiting her very first guests.

With a moody teenage daughter and a crazy sister to contend with she’s already got her work cut out. The trouble she soon discovers, is that guests have undesirable habits, annoying pets and endless demands. ‘Is it bloody worth it?’ she asks herself a dozen times a day. Janet gradually learns her trade - but not without being tested to her limits. The question is: will she come through the experience with her bank balance, cottage and her sanity intact?

Hugely entertaining but a word of warning: if ever you’ve thought of running a B&B, read this hilarious debut novel first– you might want to think again! 

What did I think?

I hadn't heard of this author before - probably not surprising as this is her debut title.

This book made me smile and laugh from start to finish - I really didn't want it to end.

Loved her cast of characters and enjoyed the different relationships. This book was a perfect piece of escapism reading - couldn't wait ti pick it back up to start reading it again. 

I really hope this is the first of many books from Becky as I for one am very interested in reading more.

Purchase Links

UK - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Janet-Jacksons-Yorkshire-B-ebook/dp/B0B77SK3QK/

US - https://www.amazon.com/Janet-Jacksons-Yorkshire-B-ebook/dp/B0B77SK3QK/

Author Bio – Becky Papworth has spent 20 years making people laugh as a TV Producer on shows like Have I Got News For you, Rab. C. Nesbitt and Citizen Khan. She’s hoping to entertain some readers with this account of running a B&B, much of it based on her actual experience, she’s not saying which bits…

Social Media Links

https://twitter.com/beckypapworth1

https://www.instagram.com/beckypapworth/

Christmas Miracles at Hedgehog Hollow by Jessica Redland

It's the countdown to Christmas at Hedgehog Hollow Wildlife Rescue Centre, and everyone is gearing up for a festive season to remember...

It should be the most wonderful time of the year for Samantha and Josh as they prepare for the arrival of their first baby. But life at Hedgehog Hollow rarely goes to plan and the pair are faced with adversaries, old and new, and unexpected challenges to overcome.

Fizz's job at the heart of the rescue centre is a dream come true but her personal life is more like a nightmare. With her love life a disaster and her past about to dramatically catch up with her, she needs the love and support of her Hedgehog Hollow family more than ever.

As the snow falls over Hedgehog Hollow, will Samantha and Fizz find the Christmas miracle they need to overcome their heartache and find happiness?

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

What did I think?

I have absolutely loved this series so far so was really looking forward to starting the latest instalment.

Too early to start the festive reads?? 

Never.

This book had it all - love and laughter - plus a few tears.  Some of the tears were mine as this is the last book in the series.

Enjoyed the continuation of the characters but if you haven't read any of the earlier books it's not the end of the world as I think it still works well in its own right.

Plenty of emotion as the book reaches its conclusion and loose ends are tied up.

Sad that the series is over but looking forward to whatever Jessica writes next.

Author Bio –

Jessica Redland writes emotional but uplifting stories of love, friendship, family and community. Her Whitsborough Bay books transport readers to the stunning North Yorkshire Coast where she lives with her husband, daughter and sprocker spaniel. Her Hedgehog Hollow series, set in a hedgehog rescue centre, takes readers into the beautiful rolling countryside of the Yorkshire Wolds.

Social Media Links –  

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/JessicaRedland

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

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

Bookbub profile: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/jessica-redland 

Making Waves at River View Cottage by Jennifer Bohnet

 

Cassie Lewis, a widow for over 20 years has begun to realise there must be more to life.

In-between working at the family boatyard in picture perfect Dartmouth and raising two children, she wonders where the years have gone.

Both her children, Tom and Polly, have inherited their father’s love of sailing and currently Tom is preparing for a gruelling round the world race. When an accident forces Tom to pull out, Polly, to Cassie’s horror, insists she is capable of taking his place.

As Polly prepares for the race, Cassie unexpectedly finds herself with two keen and eligible men vying for her love.

With her BIG 5-0 birthday approaching Cassie knows she has some big decisions to make but will the worry over Polly’s safe return, cloud her judgement?

Originally published in 2003 as Call of the Sea

Purchase Link - https://amzn.to/3zW02Bu

What did I think?

I love this authors books - mainly because they transport me to places I haven't been before. But this book was different as it took me to Dartmouth - a place I spent several holidays as a child. I could sort of picture the locations in my head as I was reading.

This book is a re release but it wasn't one I had come across before.

Sailing and the sea takes up a large part of this story - as the location would suggest. Despite knowing nothing about sailing I really enjoyed the story of Cassie and her family. Just enough detail to keep me interested but not overloaded. Plenty of drama with the dangerous and gruelling sounding race.

I loved the sense of family in this book and it kept my interest from start to finish.

Author Bio –

Jennifer Bohnet is the bestselling author of over 12 women’s fiction titles, including Villa of Sun and Secrets and A Riviera Retreat. She is originally from the West Country but now lives in the wilds of rural Brittany, France.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Jennifer-Bohnet/100063527178184/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/jenniewriter

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

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

Bookbub profile: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/jennifer-bohnet