The Start of Something Wonderful by Jessica Redland

 

Autumn Laine has lost her creative sparkle. After losing her grandad and her job as an illustrator in quick succession, she is at a crossroads in life and needs a break. Spending time with her parents in Paris, even in the artistic community of Montmartre, doesn't appear to be the answer.

So when her penpal, Rosie, invites her to stay in the Lake District, Autumn jumps at the chance to get away from the hustle and bustle of Paris. After all, where better to re-discover her creativity than the place which inspired her heroine, Beatrix Potter?

Arriving at the picturesque lakeside village of Willowdale, Autumn is swept up by the beauty and magic of the stunning landscape. Welcomed into the community with open arms, she slowly starts to feel like herself again as her creative instincts re-ignite.

But when she meets Dane, who has escaped to the Lakes for his own reasons, will Autumn's walls come down to let someone in again after so long? Or will the secrets of her past continue to hold her back?

A new beginning is a daunting prospect, but could it be the start of something wonderful too..?

Join million-copy bestseller Jessica Redland for a brand new series, full of love, friendship and community.

 

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

 What did I think?

The start of a new series by Jessica - the anticipation for this book has been great - and it didn't disappoint.

And this new series calls for a new location - the Lake District. Such a beautiful part of the world and the writing really brings the setting to life.

I love the new cast of characters and looking forward to seeing how the relationships develop. The main characters are Autumn and Dane but I am sure some of the supporting cast will have more prominence in future instalments.

This book is the story of a sweet and tender love story. We never forget our first love. It is also a story of enduring friendship. 

This is an excellent start to the new series and has lots of potential. Definitely the start of something wonderful. Cannot wait for the next book......

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/profile.php?id=100004465368404

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

 

It's Monday. What have you been 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.

I have been down South visiting family over the last 2 weeks. Took a pile of library books with me thinking I would have plenty of time to chill out and read. Did I finish any? No of course not. But the advantage to a long 500 mile drive is I managed to finish a couple of audio books.

What I'm reading now.

What I'm going to read next.

Audio - Beth Rain and Ellie Curzon

Kindle - Beth Rain and Margaret Amatt

Library - Liz Fenwick, SG Maclean and Maggie Shipstead

Ration Book Baby by Ellie Curzon

 

The Ration Book Baby: An utterly heart-wrenching and uplifting World War 2 saga (A Village at War) by Ellie Curzon

 

England, 1940. Opening the box with trembling hands, she couldn’t believe it – a tiny baby lay inside. She gently lifted the newborn as it started to cry. Cradling the little one to her chest, she searched the darkness for any sign of whoever left it here. And as she rocked the child, something fluttered to the ground… a ration book.

Nurse Annie Russell anxiously listens to the terrifying sounds of planes and gunfire overhead, worried about what the morning will bring for the patients in her care. The boys from the local airfield fly up in the skies each night, risking their lives to protect the people of Bramble Heath village, but they can’t stop every bombshell. Until a knock at the door makes her jump.

Awaiting Annie on the doorstep is a hatbox. Peeking under the lid, she gasps – inside is a whimpering newborn, round cheeks glistening with tears. The poor little thing may be all alone, but someone must truly love the baby… Tucked into a hand-knitted blanket, there’s a precious ration book, vital for food supplies in these darkest of days.

Her heart breaking, Anniedoes everything she can to care for her tiny charge. But, without a ration book, she knows that the frightened young mother could also be in dire need of help too. Then social services bring devastating news. If Annie can’t find the helpless child’s family soon, the authorities will have to take the little one away.

As the Nazi threat grows, more and more of the brave pilots at the local airbase don’t come home. Is one of the fallen the child’s father? And with her only clue leading nowhere, can Annie find the answers she needs, and reunite the innocent baby with its parents before it is too late?

A totally unputdownable and emotional historical novel that will have you reading late into the night. Perfect for fans of Diney Costeloe, Martha Hall Kelly and Before We Were Yours.

Buy link: https://geni.us/B0C69ND1H1social

 

What did I think.

This was my first book by this author and I will be honest it isn't my usual genre so a little out of my comfort zone. I decided to listen to the book on audio as my request was granted over on Netgalley. To me an audio book can be a bit hit or miss depending on the narrator. But this book had it spot on - the voices and language seemed authentic to the era and the whole story was very believable (great accents too)

A sad story - probably all too common at the time - of a baby left on a doorstep as the parents were unable for whatever reason to care for i themselves. Heartbreaking.

But this baby was so lucky as on the other side of the door was Annie - a nurse - and her Mother a retired midwife. We followed Annie as she tried to discover who the parents were and reunite them with their daughter. She had her suspicions and followed the clues.

The story kept me engrossed till the (happy) ending. I will read more by this author and will certainly be recommending this book to my mother in law who I know will love it.

About the author:

Ellie Curzon is the pen name of Catherine Curzon and Helen Barrell. Catherine and Helen began writing together in the spring of 2017 and swiftly discovered a shared love of the past and a uniquely British sort of story. They drink gallons of tea, spend hours discussing the importance of good tailoring and are never at a loss for a bit of derring-do.

 

Catherine Curzon is an author and historian of old Hollywood and even older royalty. In addition to a series of eighteenth century biographies and a sell-out play, she has written extensively for a number of international publications, and has spoken at venues and events across the United Kingdom. Catherine lives in a haze of Dean Martin atop a steep Yorkshire hill, with a rakish gentleman and a very woolly dog.

 

Helen Barrell has written two books on Victorian crime, and has appeared on BBC1 and Radio 4. She loves researching family history and rummaging in libraries and archives. Originally from the south-east of England, Helen now lives somewhere in the Midlands with a large ginger cat, who resembles a Viking, and a well-stocked 1960’s cocktail bar.

 

Author social media:

 

Website

https://elliecurzon.co.uk/

https://twitter.com/MadameGilflurt

https://bookouture.com/subscribe/ellie-curzon

An Invitation to Seashell Bay by Bella Osborne

 

An Invitation To Seashell Bay

One ambitious businesswoman.

One irresponsible heir. 

A deal that will turn both their lives upside down… 

To grow her craft business, Nancy is in desperate need of two things: help and money. So when a potential investor she’s looking to impress recommends an assistant, she jumps at the chance to secure both.

Freddy Astley-Davenport is a notorious playboy with zero work experience. He’s poised to inherit his family’s estate in sunny Seashell Bay – but only if he can hold down a job for six months first. His plan is to take the assistant role in name only, then do the least work he possibly can.

Nancy has other ideas, though, and the pair butt heads from day one. However, as they argue, sparks begin to fly, and they soon discover exactly why opposites attract…

An absolutely escapist, funny, feel-good summer romance. Fans of Cathy Bramley, Katie Fforde and Milly Johnson will adore Bella Osborne.

Purchase Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Invitation-Seashell-Bay-heartwarming-feel-good-ebook/dp/B0BP9RXKXJ/

https://www.amazon.com/Invitation-Seashell-Bay-heartwarming-feel-good-ebook/dp/B0BP9RXKXJ/

Author Bio – Bella has been jotting down stories as far back as she can remember but decided that 2013 would be the year that she finished a full length novel. Since then she’s written nine best-selling romantic comedies, two best-selling bookclub reads and won the RNA Romantic Comedy Novel of the Year Award.

Bella's stories are about friendship, love and coping with what life throws at you. She lives in Warwickshire, UK with her husband, daughter and a cat who thinks she’s a dog. When not writing Bella is usually eating custard creams and planning holidays.

For more about Bella, visit her website at www.bellaosborne.com or follow her on social media.

 

Social Media Links –

Twitter - https://twitter.com/osborne_bella

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

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bellaosborneauthor/

TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@bellaosborneauthor

 

What did I think?

Milly Johnstn described this book as a lovely sunshiney story, bursting with wit and joy. I would say she hit the nose on the head with this description. This book was originally released in four parts - which is a format I really like and Bella is an author I absolutely love.

The storyline kept me engrossed from the first chapter - Bella has written a fantastic cast of characters. I mainly read at night when I'm in bed - but as I finished a chapter O had to know what happened next - and before I knew it it was the early hours of the morning!!

This is a book filled with warmth and humour - my best description would be like a hug in a book.

Us Two by Janet Hoggarth

 

When Florence met Rowena, they knew for sure that they would always be friends.

Wayward parents, boring teachers, teenage crushes, first heartbreaks – anything and everything could be faced as long as Florence had Rowena by her side.

But then she didn’t.

And life had to be redrawn and reconsidered.

Being a grown-up has its perks, but as Rowena faces the biggest challenge of her life, and Florence wonders if it’s time to stop running away from hers, there’s a wise soul who knows the one thing that can help them both. Some friendships are meant to last forever, and it’s never too late for forever to start again.

Joyous and heart-breaking, laugh-out-loud funny, life-affirming and unforgettable, join Flo and Ro on a journey that will warm your heart and perhaps make you wonder about those old friends who knew you so well.

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

What did I think?

Janet is a relatively new author for me so was excited to read her new book.

It was a delightful story of everlasting friendship. Do you have a friend whom you have known since childhood? Sadly I lost touch with my friends from school although we are still connected through the power of Facebook.

I enjoyed Florence and Rowena's friendship - even when life gets in the way and throws a spanner in the works. Isn't it always a boy that gets in the way?

I found this a heartwarming story - not just about friendship but about family, about love and about forgiveness. Life is too short

Author Bio –

Janet Hoggarth is the number one bestselling author of The Single Mums' Mansion and the highly successful Single Mums' subsequent series. She has worked on a chicken farm, as a bookseller, a children’s book editor, a children’s author, and as a DJ (under the name of Whitney and Britney!). She lives with her family in East Dulwich, London.

Social Media Links –  

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

Twitter https://twitter.com/Janethauthor

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

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

The Woman Who Ran to the Hills by Carmen Reid

 

Jennifer McAndrew thinks she’s living her best life in London – wonderful man, great job, happily child-free. Except the ‘wonderful man’ turns out to have a secret that ruins everything...

Shocked and devastated, Jen doesn’t know what to do. So, she packs her bags and runs for the hills – away from her problems, all the way to her childhood home in Scotland and the safety of her dad.

But her dad is a changed man. Busy with his girlfriend, golf and G&Ts, he doesn’t have time for Jen’s worries. And she can’t see her sister, Isla, who she fell out with years ago.

So, Jen rekindles friendships with her old school pals, Alison and Rory. They’re juggling work and young families, but still find time to take her out and set her up with some terrible dates.

The more time she spends with Rory and his daughters, the more Jen thinks there could be something big missing from her life. But could she ever go back to small town life? And can she forgive what happened in the past? Should a good friend become something more?

The biggest question for Jen is – will she try to solve her problems, or will she cut and run for the hills again?

Another brilliant laugh out loud emotional read, perfect for fans of Fiona Gibson, Tracy Bloom and Sophie Ranald!

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

What did I think?

I am a fan of Carmen Reid's books and writing style. You just know you are in for an enjoyable read.

I could really relate and sympathise with Jennifer. She was a well written character and her storyline was very realistic. Haven't we all thought of upping sticks and moving away to start over. I know I have. Maybe sometimes it is good to take a step back and take stock of our lives.

Loved the setting of St Andrews - a place I have visited several times. I am hoping there will be another book so we can return to the university town. (although I cannot stand golf!)

I don't want to give anything away but I did finish the book with a warm and fuzzy feeling - a hug in a book.

Author Bio –

Carmen Reid is the bestselling author of numerous woman’s fiction titles including the Personal Shopper series starring Annie Valentine. After taking a break from writing she is back, introducing her hallmark feisty women characters to a new generation of readers. She lives in Glasgow with her husband and children.

 

Social Media Links –  

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

Twitter https://twitter.com/thiscarmenreid

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

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

 

 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.

Library - Liz Fenwick, Isabelle Broom and Richard Coles

Audio - Daniel Hurst and Ellie Curzon

Bookclub - Sara Nisha Adams

New Beginnings at Wildflower Lock by Hannah Lynn

 

New starts and hopeful hearts...

 

At 25, Daisy May’s life is not living up to expectations. Her childhood dreams of being an artist feel as unachievable as a committed relationship or managing to save enough money for a deposit on a house. But a surprise inheritance could change all that.

After Daisy learns she’s now the new owner of a forty-foot narrow boat, she sets out for Wildflower Lock, where the fresh country breeze and the calm water is enough to assure her everything will be okay.

With the help of the ruggedly attractive, yet grumpy riverman, Theo, she begins to work on her new home, the September Rose. Can she breathe new life into the old boat and learn to navigate not only the canals themselves, but also the people who live there? Or will the whole venture pull her under?

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

What did I think>

I absolutely loved the first two books in Hannah's sweetshop series - I read them for their joyful covers and the fact that they were set in Bourton on the Water as my Dad lives very close by so visit when I'm down. I have the 3rd and 4th books sitting on my kindle to read and then onto the 5th book - which I am on the blog tour for. 

So I let out a little squeal of delight when I saw this brand new offering from Hannah. Then I was even mor delighted when I found it was the start of a brand new series.

This is another delightful story. I have a thing about both lighthouses and canal boats so I knew I was going to love this story centred around Daisy and her newly acquired 40 foot narrow boat. It had hints of Cressida McLaughlin's Canal Boat Café book about it - another author who I love.

Really enjoyed the start to this series - definitely a feel good story. Wasn't expecting the cliffhanger of an ending but this just increases the anticipation for the next book.

Author Bio –

Hannah Lynn is the author of over twenty books spanning several genres. As well as signing a new romantic fiction series, Boldwood will be republishing the first of her bestselling Sweet Shop series, inspired by her Cotswolds childhood, The Sweet Shop of Second Chances in April 2023.

Social Media Links –  

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

Twitter https://twitter.com/HMLynnauthor

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

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

 

Death at the Caravan Park by Susan Willis

 

Clive Thompson heads for Whitley Bay caravan park to finish writing his novel. He’s never had a caravan holiday before and is warmly greeted by the manager, Liz Mathews, who lives on the park. She is single and cares for her ninety year old mother who has Alzheimer’s Disease. Clive meets the people in neighbouring caravans and has an amazing view from his veranda over the sea to St. Mary’s Lighthouse. However, Audrey goes missing during the night and Liz is beside herself with worry.  The police are out looking for her, but disillusioned by their efforts, Clive begins his own investigations.  

Purchase Links - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Death-Caravan-Park-Thompson-investigates-ebook/dp/B0C6YGTH79/

https://www.amazon.com/Death-Caravan-Park-Thompson-investigates-ebook/dp/B0C6YGTH79/

What did I think?

Why did I sign up for this blog tour? Firstly I find lighthouses and their history quite fascinating. How they are built out at sea is outstanding to start wit (did you see the Rob Bell series? It was fascinating) Why would someone want to be a lightkeeper - bit of a creepy job. I actually visited St Marys Lighthouse this time last year - so I could actually see it in my head as I was reading the story - really brought it to life. And I love a cozy mystery.

This is the second book in a series - but I didn't think I had missed out on anything by not reading the first book. 

I enjoyed the character of Clive Thompson - and the setting of Whitley Bay was atmospheric. I visited the area last year and it somewhere I want to return to. I found the book had enough mystery to keep me guessing - and I am hopless at trying to second guess plot twists and who done its.

I am now looking forward to going back and reading the first book in the series (even better when you find it is available on Kindle Unlimited) and also hoping that there will be more to come.

Author Bio –

Susan is a published author of eight novels and six novellas with short stories published in Women’s Weekly magazines. She is now retired from Food Technology and scribbles away in County Durham. Writing psychological suspense and cosy-crime novels with strong, lovable North East characters, is her passion. Last year, she brought us, Clive’s Christmas Crusades, set in York. Following the Harrogate Crime Writing Festival, Susan wrote six Curious Casefiles which is now published by Northodox Press. She has incorporated up-to-date issues: poor mental health in a kidnap scene, the perils of social media, and an intruder on Skype.

 

Social Media Links –

You can find Susan’s books here: https://amzn.to/2S5UBc8    

www.facebook.com/susan.willis.710

https://twitter.com/SusanWillis69