One Christmas Eve by Shari Low

 

Three women, three decades, three Christmas Eve moments that change their lives forever.

On Christmas Eve, 1968, Cathy McLean receives a surprise visit from the lost love of her life and is forced to chose between the one that got away and the one that stayed.

On Christmas Eve, 1993, Cathy’s daughter Helena is overjoyed to hear that her boyfriend is about to propose, until a devastating encounter threatens to bring her heartbreak instead of diamonds.

On Christmas Eve 2023, an shocking discovery rocks Eve Quinn’s world. The only gift Eve wants this year is the truth. But will it take a Christmas miracle to unravel generations of secrets?

Unwrap this festive tale of complicated families, impossible choices, and an unforgettable love that lasts three lifetimes.

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

What did I think?

Is it too early to start reading festive titles?? It's never too early and I think this is my first festive read of the season.

I always enjoy Shari's books - probably because she writes about subjects and story lines that I can relate too. 

This story follows three generations of women all of whose lives change one Christmas Eve. The fact that the whole book is set just on one day in each decade was inspired - in two hour segments. As I said it features 3 generations of one family - each of the stores is set in a different decade. 

The story made me feel all warm and fuzzy but it isn't overly Christmassy.  A perfect feel good read. I know I read this in the middle of our (so called) Summer but it would be great to read in the lead up to the festive season. 

Written with feeling and humour. If you only read one festive book this year - please make it this one.

Author Bio –

Shari Low is the #1 bestselling author of over 30 novels, including My One Month Marriage and One Summer Sunrise and a collection of parenthood memories called Because Mummy Said So. She lives near Glasgow.

Social Media Links – 

  

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

Twitter https://twitter.com/sharilow

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

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

Snow Angels on the Boardwalk by Georgina Troy

 

Dig out your hard hat and gaze up at the snowflake-speckled sky over the Boardwalk.

Portia Fortescue has traded in the hustle and bustle of London to help renovate a magnificent French manor house on the beautiful island of Jersey with her boyfriend Charlie Hargreaves.

But what they hoped would be a blissful escape to the chateau, turns out to be more of a DIY SOS.

As the winter snow sets in, the stress of restoring the derelict chateau back to life begins to take its toll on their relationship.

Portia has known heartbreak before, but thought she’d found her happy-ever-after with Charlie…

Just when their dreams appear to crumble beneath them Portia and Charlie discover the warmth of the Boardwalk community – the best friends anyone could ever ask for.

This new life could be everything they want it to be, if only they can finish the chateau in time for its grand reopening!

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

What did I think?

This is the 5th book in The Boardwalk series. I'm now wondering if I have actually read them all - I will need to head over to Goodreads and check.

Once again we are treated to another story set on Jersey - which is home to Georgina. I have never been but the descriptions have really fired up my wanderlust.

The chateau that Portia and Charlie have bought sounds fascinating - although a huge project to take on. I'm renovating a small bungalow and that is more than enough for me. I could more than sympathise with Portia longing after some of her previous home comforts.

A sweet story with a proper sense of community - a definite feel good read.

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 has done a twelve-book deal with Boldwood, including backlist titles, and the first book in her Sunshine Island series was published in May 2022.

Social Media Links –  

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

Twitter https://twitter.com/GeorginaTroy

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

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.  

A slow reading week......

What I read last week.

What I'm reading now.

What I'm going to read next.

Audio - Sarah Goodwin

Library - Maggie Shipstead, Liz Fenwick and Adam Kay

Kindle - Margaret Amatt

The Doctor's Widow by Daniel Hurst

 

The Doctor's Widow: A completely unputdownable and addictive psychological thriller with a jaw-dropping twist (The Doctor's Wife Book 2) 

 

She trusted him. Now she’s paying the price…

I loved my husband, Doctor Drew Devlin, but he betrayed me. And now he’s dead.

As I put the key in the lock and open the door to the luxurious new home I’ve purchased with Drew’s life insurance money, I’m certain the worst days are behind me. My secret is safe, and I can’t wait to enjoy my new wealth and freedom.

Then I meet handsome Roger. I wasn’t looking for a relationship but as we spend our evenings drinking wine on my sunny terrace, I realise he’s just what I need right now. Roger is nothing like Drew, he’s spontaneous and romantic. And most of all, he’s honest.

He thinks I’m a rich, lonely woman. He’s wrong of course, there’s so much more to me…

But then one night, when we’re curled up in bed together, Roger says something that makes my blood run cold. I think he knows the truth about my life as the doctor’s wife.

I will do anything to stop my past from catching up with me… But is Roger really who he says he is? Or is my life now in danger?

An absolutely gripping psychological thriller packed with jaw-dropping twists from the number one bestselling author of The Doctor’s Wife. If you love Behind Closed Doors, Gone Girl and The Girl on the Train you’ll be hooked on The Doctor’s Widow.

 

Buy link https://geni.us/B0C78K788Wsocial

What did I think.

I thoroughly enjoyed The Doctor's Wife and was really excited to read the follow up The Doctor's Widow - I couldn't imagine which direction the story was going to go in.

Fern is an unlikable character and normally this would put me off reading - but the way the last book finished - it left me wanting more.

I was really hoping she would get her come uppance. 

I don't think I can write a full review of this book without giving some of the plot twists away. I really don't want to do that as you really need do need to read this rollercoaster of a book. If you haven't read the first book then I really think you need to read if before picking this one up.

Daniel is the king of short and snappy chapters. The sort of chapters were you keep promising yourself just one more chapter - then another - and another. He writes books you really don't want to put down. 

About Daniel Hurst

 

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, returning to his roots after several years away exploring the world and garnering plenty of ideas for future books!

Social media

 

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/dhurstbooks

Website: www.danielhurstbooks.com

Author newsletter sign up: https://www.bookouture.com/daniel-hurst/

 

All Good Things by Amanda Prowse

 

In this captivating story from the bestselling author of Picking up the Pieces, Daisy has always envied the perfect family next door. But will a weekend of unexpected drama prove that the grass isn’t always greener?

Daisy Harrop has always felt like she exists in the background, and since her mother stopped getting out of bed, her life has come to a complete standstill. Daisy would give anything to leave the shabbiest house on the street and be more like the golden Kelleways next door, with their perfectly raked driveway and flourishing rose garden…

Winnie Kelleway is proud of the beautiful family she’s built. They’ve had their ups and downs—hasn’t everyone? But this weekend, celebrating her golden wedding anniversary is truly proof of their happiness, a joyful gathering for all the neighbours to see.

But as the festivities get underway, are the cracks in the ‘perfect’ Kelleway life beginning to show? As one bombshell revelation leads to another and events start to spiral out of control, Daisy and Winnie are about to discover that things aren’t always what they seem.

 

What did I think?

Who doesn't love an Amanda Prowse book and I was stupidly excited to receive a copy of her brand new release.

Amanda is one of those authors whose books I will pick up to read without knowing anything about the story. You know you are going to be in for a treat.

Amandas books are always written from the heart and have really relatable characters in them - covering subjects and situations many of us could find ourselves in. I have just seen her described as the queen of the domestic drama and I couldn't have said it better.

In all good things we delve into 2 sets of neighbours - one seemingly perfect one but underneath the polished exterior is a dysfunctional family. It goes to show that everything is not  always as it seems. As the story unfolds there are plenty of secrets and drama coming to the fore - most enjoyable.

I am a hug fan of Amanda's and have read almost all of her books but some of them seem so long ago that I'm feeling the need to read them again - in order!

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

 

Author Bio –

Amanda Prowse is an International Bestselling author whose twenty-eight novels, two non-fiction titles and seven novellas have been published in dozens of languages around the world. Published by Lake Union, Amanda is the most prolific writer of bestselling contemporary fiction in the UK today; her titles also consistently score the highest online review approval ratings across several genres. Her books, including the chart-topping No.1 titles 'What Have I Done?', 'Perfect Daughter', 'My Husband's Wife', 'The Girl in the Corner' and ‘The Things I Know’ have sold millions of copies across the globe.

A popular TV and radio personality, Amanda has appeared on numerous shows where her views on family and social issues strike a chord with viewers. She also makes countless guest appearances on BBC national and independent Radio stations including LBC, Times Radio and Talk FM, where she is well known for her insightful observations and her infectious humour. Described by the Daily Mail as ‘The queen of family drama’ Amanda’s novel, 'A Mother's Story' won the coveted Sainsbury's eBook of the year Award and she has had two books selected as World Book Night titles; 'Perfect Daughter' in 2016 and 'The Boy Between' in 2022.

Amanda is a huge supporter of libraries and having become a proud ambassador for The Reading Agency, works tirelessly to promote reading, especially in disadvantaged areas. Amanda's ambition is to create stories that keep people from turning the bedside lamp off at night, great characters that ensure you take every step with them and tales that fill your head so you can't possibly read another book until the memory fades...

Praise for Amanda Prowse:

'A powerful and emotional work of fiction' - Piers Morgan

'Deeply moving and emotional, Amanda Prowse handles her explosive subjects with delicate skill' - Daily Mail

'Uplifting and positive, but you will still need a box of tissues' - Hello!

'A gut-wrenching and absolutely brilliant read' - The Irish Sun

'You'll fall in love with this...' - Cosmopolitan

'Deeply moving and eye opening. Powerful and emotional drama that packs a real punch.' - Heat

'Magical' - Now magazine

Social Media Links –

Say hello on Twitter:  @MrsAmandaProwse

Friend me on Facebook:  www.facebook.com/AmandaProwseAuthor

Tag me on Instagram:  www.instagram.com/MrsAmandaProwse

Visit my Amazon Author Page:  Amanda Prowse Author  

Check out my website: www.amandaprowse.com

The Accidental Housemate by Sal Thomas

 

Cath Beckinsale is in a jam. She’s a single mum of three, with her 40th birthday in sight and a precarious hold on employment. And she can’t quite let go of her late husband Gaz, whose ashes are still in an urn on the kitchen table.

To make ends meet a student lodger seems like the perfect solution – after all, what’s one more child in the house? But when Dan flies in from the US, complete with guitar and chest hair on display, it’s immediately clear that he’s no teenager, but someone who quickly sends life in an unexpected direction.

What did I think?

I hadn't heard of this author before so wasn't sure what to expect. Loved the cover though - it really shouted "read me"

What I got was a fabulous light hearted read which was just what I needed. I was needing a book that I could pick up and put down - to be enjoyed in short bursts.

Loved the characters - especially the children. Even though as I said earlier it was a light hearted read it did cover some more serious issues - and dealt with them in a sympathetic manner.

For a debut novel this is a cracking read and I will certainly be looking out for more of her books in the future.

Purchase Links

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Accidental-Housemate-Sal-Thomas/dp/000860939X

https://www.amazon.com/Accidental-Housemate-Sal-Thomas-ebook/dp/B0BT4DK8B1

Author Bio –

Sal Thomas likes to string words together, hopefully in an amusing order. BBC Comedy once described her as 'that woman who keeps on sending us scripts'. She has performed as a stand-up, starred in an Edinburgh sketch show, tried her hand at film writing and sitcoms (all to zero financial acclaim) and finally settled on romcom novels as her genre of choice after realising the world can never have enough of the mirth-filled mushy stuff. She lives in Manchester, UK, with her husband and son - the two loves of her life. Her side hustle is managing her rampant anxiety.

Social Media Links –

Insta https://www.instagram.com/salthomasauthor/

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100092251789237

Two's Company at the Forest Light Show

 

One night, one second chance, and a love story waiting to happen

Vivacious forestry worker Cha Gilchrist doesn’t usually have flings with buttoned-up guys who dress like her old geography teacher, no matter how secretly attractive she finds them. But she makes one exception; after all, she’ll never see the guy again...

Reserved Nick Harkness is used to people thinking he’s dull – better that than having them discover his secrets. But his carefully constructed life is cracked open when the blue-haired goddess he chanced an uncharacteristic fling with appears in his office and gives the perfect interview for a woodland management job. Nick has no option but to hire her.

Working together on the Glenbriar Forest Light Show, Nick and Cha uncover corruption at the heart of the organising committee, but under their professional façade, a burning attraction simmers. As they attempt to expose the truth, they can’t ignore the intensity of their feelings.

Pursuing her boss is a risky step, even for daring Cha, but if Nick’s secrets come to light, then his position in the company might be the least of their problems.

What did I think?

I am really enjoying this Glenbriar series - this is the fourth book. If you haven't tried them they you really must.

A return to Glenbriar is always a treat and in this book the main characters are Cha and Nick - great new characters and who doesn't enjoy a bit of romance? Although this book does involve characters from the earlier titles it does work well as a standalone title if you haven't read the earlier books.

Don't want to give too much away but if I say that I read this book in 2 sittings that should tell you how much I enjoyed it.

As I live in the Highlands I can picture in my head the location - although I've seen a pink castle up here I haven't seen a pink hotel.

I spy with my little eye the 5th book in the series is on Goodreads. Cannot wait to read it.

Purchase Links

https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0C55PCZRJ

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C55PCZRJ

Author Bio –

Margaret is a Scottish author and chocolate lover who has been writing stories for over twenty years

(possibly more if you count her primary school efforts). Her early works will never see the light of

day and are locked in dusty vaults on some old floppy disks. But after all those years of practise,

Margaret released her first novel A Winter Haven in 2021. This is the first of a ten-book series set on

the gorgeous Scottish Isle of Mull. Margaret has also written four books in The Glenbriar Series with more planned for 2023.

The stories are unashamedly romantic but with lots of drama and an eclectic mix of characters. Each

book can be read as a standalone but followers of the series will enjoy catching up with the characters.

Social Media Links –

https://www.margaretamatt.com/subscribe

https://www.facebook.com/MargaretAmattAuthor

https://www.instagram.com/margaret_amatt_author

https://twitter.com/AmattAuthor

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.  

This has been a slow reading week for me so I don't think much has changed since last Monday!!

What I read last week.

What I'm reading now.

What I'm going to read next.

The Little Paris Toyshop by Lauren Westwood

 

The Little Paris Toyshop

In the tangled streets of Paris, there is a toyshop… 

A place where memories are lost and found, where pain and love, regret and joy are waiting to be discovered.

The old man sets the animals in the cars of the miniature train. A tiger with a jewelled collar, a monkey in a pillbox hat, a poodle, a dancing bear, an elephant, an ostrich with plumed tail feathers. The music plays; the animals trundle around the track. Their gentle faces have seen everything and reveal nothing. The joy, the sorrow, all the spaces in between. On the outside, they are smiling. Inside, they mourn the one that was lost. 

When Sarah, a successful hotel designer, encounters a run-down toyshop in Paris, little does she know that her life is about to change. Against her better judgment, she agrees to help the elderly owner, Franz, save his shop and transform it into a magical destination for children and adults. She meets Tomas, a small-time crime novelist, who gives her a glimpse of a different life – one that can only exist on the other side of her own grief and guilt. But Tomas is hiding painful secrets of his own that threaten to destroy their blossoming relationship.

Can two lonely people move beyond the shame and heartbreak of the past to find their own happily ever after?

A spellbinding tale of love and memories lost and found. Perfect for fans of Joanne Harris’s Chocolat, Karen Swan, and Jojo Moyes, The Little Paris Toyshop will hit every emotion for readers who love literary romance. 

What did I think?

Lauren Westwood is a brand new author to me. Surprisingly I hadn't heard of her before I signed up for the blog tour for her latest title. Seems as though I have quite a bit of reading to catch up with when I saw all her book over on Goodreads.

My first thought was how beautiful the cover for this book is. Really made me want to pick up the book and start reading straight away. 

I found this a charming but quite an emotional read. Really enjoyed all the main characters - each of whom had their own backstories. The writing style really brought all four of them to life for me.

I would say Laurens writing style is atmospheric. It brought both the city and the toys to life. There was something a bit other wordly too about the writing which I really enjoyed.

After reading this book I will certainly going back through her previous titles and reading more. I think I am in for a treat.

Purchase link - https://geni.us/TheLittleParisToyshop

Author Bio – I write emotional women's fiction and intelligent romance. My books explore the darkness and the light of the human spirit, and take you on an emotional journey. My latest book, The Little Paris Toyshop, is a spellbinding tale of love, loss, memory, and Paris. Discover the magic and romance today.

Social Media Links:

 

Twitter: @lwestwoodwriter

Facebook: @Lwestwoodbooks

Website: www.laurenwestwoodwriter.com

Instagram; https://www.instagram.com/Lwestwoodwriter/