BOOK REVIEW: Sunny Days and Sea Breezes by Carole Matthews

Jodie Jackson is all at sea, in every sense.

On a ferry bound for the Isle of Wight, she's leaving her London life, her career, and her husband behind. She'd like a chance to turn back the clocks, but she'll settle for some peace and quiet on her brother Bill's beautifully renovated houseboat, Sunny Days.

But from the moment Jodie steps aboard her new home, it's clear she'll struggle to keep herself to herself. If it isn't Marilyn, who cleans for Bill and is under strict instructions to look after Jodie, then it's Ned, the noisy sculptor on the next-door houseboat. Ned's wood carving is hard on the ears, but it's made up for by the fact that he's rather easy on the eyes.

Bustled out of the boat by Marilyn and encouraged to explore with Ned, Jodie soon delights in her newfound freedom. But out of mind isn't out of sight, and when her old life comes knocking Jodie is forced to face reality. Will she answer the call or choose a life filled with Sunny Days and Sea Breezes?

Publisher: Sphere

Carole Matthews has written thirty-two books yet she still has something new to offer her readers. I’m sure I say this everytime Carole has a new book out but I think this is her best yet! 

I loved everything about this book from the characters, to the setting, to the delightful cover. Jodie heads to her brother’s house boat on the Isle of Wight, she desperately needs to escape her life in London, including her husband Chris. Feeling as though she can’t face anyone, she is hoping for quiet and solitude and the island seems the perfect choice. Life has other ideas though; Marilyn bursts onto the boat, resplendent in bright leggings and jangly jewellery and then her new neighbour, Ned, strikes up his chainsaw to begin a new wooden sculpture. At first, Jodie wants to hide from these two but gradually she allows them in and surprisingly they become integral to her future. 

I will happily hold my hands up and admit to having a huge crush on Ned, don’t you love it when that happens in a book! He is kind, caring and very easy on the eye. I really enjoyed this romantic aspect of the story; he goes out of his way to look after Jodie and this is before he has any romantic intentions. 

Jodie develops greatly as a character and she is so different by the end of the book. She has suffered a great tragedy but it becomes apparent that she may have been settling in life long before then. She slowly opens herself up to actually enjoying her life, from wearing bright clothes to yoga sessions on the beach. 

Marilyn is a real breath of fresh air in the story; she is the mother figure that Jodie needs, someone to care for her with no hidden agenda. She brings a lot of humour to the story and I loved how she brought Jodie out of her shell.

Sunny Days and Sea Breezes is such a lovely read and I know it will delight many readers. Many thanks to Carole Matthews and Sphere for inviting me to review this book.

BOOK REVIEW: The Bookshop on the Shore by Jenny Colgan

Escape to the Scottish Highlands where a tiny bookshop perches on the edge of a loch.Zoe is a single mother, sinking beneath the waves trying to cope by herself in London. Hari, her gorgeous little boy, is perfect in every way- except for the fact that he just doesn’t speak at all. When her landlord raises the rent on her flat, Zoe doesn’t know where to turn,Then Hari’s aunt suggests Zoe could move to Scotland to help run a bookshop. Going from the lonely city to a small village in the Highlands could be the change Zoe and Hari desperately need.Faced with an unwelcoming boss, a moody, distant bookseller named Ramsay Urquart and a band of unruly children, Zoe wonders if she’s made the right decision. But Hari has found his very first real friend, and no-one could resist the beauty of the loch glinting in the summer sun. If only Ramsay would be a little more approachable.

Publisher: Sphere

Pages: 489

I loved this book! There are times when you have things going on in life and you just need the perfect book to give you a little lift. It has been quite full on since we got a new puppy in the house but being able to dip in and out of The Bookshop on the Shore has cheered me up and provided me with some lovely moments of escapism which is exactly what I needed. 

I liked Zoe straight away. She is a struggling single mother who has escaped to the Scottish Highlands from London with her young son Hari. Faced with two new jobs, one as a mobile bookseller and the other as an au pair to three children who live on a vast country estate. Zoe knows she has her work cut out to make this opportunity work.  She just wants to provide for Hari but the children are rather unwelcoming and although she loves books, nobody seems to want to buy them from her. Plus her boss, Ramsay Urquart is a complete mystery, locking himself away in his vast library, seeming to forget that he has three children to be a father to.

Jenny Colgan has created a beautiful story, a book about books and friendship and love. The characters are solid and believable and my favourite thing was the children who Zoe takes under her wing, Patrick, Mary and Shackelton. They all have their own issues but she goes out of the way to help them all. I had a particular soft spot for Patrick and the way he speaks plus the friendship he forms with Hari. 

I can’t recommend this book enough, it was simply lovely from beginning to end. 

BOOK REVIEW: Happiness of Beginners by Carole Matthews

Molly Baker is living her best life. Thirty-eight years old, she lives on the twenty-five-acre Hope Farm in Buckingham shire, surrounded  by (mostly) four-legged friends and rolling hills. There's Anthony the anti-social sheep, Tina Turner the alpaca with attitude and the definitely not miniature pig, Teacup.
Molly runs the farm as an alternative school for kids who haven't thrived in mainstream education. It's full on, but she wouldn't have it any other way. So when the well-groomed Shelby Dacre turns up at Hope Farm asking to enrol his son Lucas, Molly isn't fazed. But Lucas is distant and soon Molly realises he might be more of a handful than she anticipated. And then there's the added problem that his dad is distractingly handsome. Molly has her beloved farm to think of- could letting Lucas and Shelby in be a terrible mistake, or the start of something wonderful?

Publisher: Sphere

Pages: 445

Carole has done it again, Happiness for Beginners is fantastic. The cover is stunning and perfect for this time of year, just looking at it cheered me up.
Our protagonist is Molly Baker, she runs Hope Farm, an alternative school for kids plus home to a range of slightly eccentric animals. It is hard work for Molly but highly rewarding. Molly's whole life revolves around the farm so it is no surprise that she doesn't recognise TV superstar Shelby Dacre when he turns up with his son Lucas. Shelby is in a long-running soap opera and very much a heartthrob and household name. He is also at his wits end with son Lucas, since his wife died they have grown more and more distant and Shelby is at a loss as to how to reach his son.
Molly isn't fazed and agrees to take on Lucas at the school. She quickly develops a soft-spot for the troubled teenager and is determined to help him. There is a connection between Molly and Shelby too and she is convinced there is more to him than his glamorous persona.
I really loved this book and I think the idea behind it is fantastic. Hope Farm provides such a good setting. There is so much humour and warmth derived from the animals and other characters involved in Molly's life there. It felt very familiar and homely, I could picture it all so well in my mind.
Carole weaves a fantastically romantic element into the story in the form of Shelby and Molly's growing relationship. I was a little wary of him at first as Molly seemed slightly naive but it was great to see their relationship grow and develop.
Happiness for Beginners is such a lovely read and perfect for the Spring. It is full of hope and opportunity, romance and mischievous alpacas. I can happily recommend Happiness for Beginners and all of Carole Matthew's other books, you will not be disappointed. 

BOOK REVIEW: The Lives We Touch by Eva Woods

In our lives we'll meet something like eighty-thousand people. Most of them just in passing, sitting beside them on a bus, buying a latte from them, overtaking them too fast on the motorway. Others will become friends, lovers, family. Some will stay in our lives forever, and some will be swept away by the flow of life. But we touch all of these people in some way, tiny or huge, making more of a difference than any of us can imagine.
Rosie is in a coma, unable to reach out to the world or communicate. She only has one chance to make it back from consciousness- but she's slipping deeper and deeper into a maze of memories  and it's going to be hard to find her way out.
Daisy, Rosie's sister, is devastated by the accident. She's always been the good, dependable girl to Rosie's free spirit- but some of Rosie's attitude seems to be creeping into Daisy's dull experience. Can Daisy find the courage to be herself?
It only takes one tiny step to change a life forever...

Publisher: Sphere

Pages: 341

I was a big fan of Eva Woods' book How to be Happy which was published last year. The Lives We Touch is her latest book and I loved the opening paragraph:

Two hundred and fifty-three. That was how many people heard or saw Rosie Cooke step in front of the bus on a bright, cold morning in October, as it crossed a bridge spanning the grey, muddied waters of the Thames. 

Rosie is in a coma after being hit by a bus, what we don't know is whether it was an accident or if she purposefully stepped in front of it. Lying in a coma, Rosie can hear what is going on but she is unable to communicate. Her mum and sister Daisy are by her bed side. She knows that Daisy and her have had a falling out but she can't remember what it was about. She does know deep down that she loves her sister very much.
The book is told from the alternating perspectives of Daisy and Rosie. It becomes clear that Daisy is the more sensible sister but has she been hiding behind this persona and does Rosie's accident mean she should start living life the way she wants to?
Rosie has plenty to think about whilst in the coma, she is visited by dead friends and family who take her on journeys within her memory. I found this a little strange at first but then I thought it quite similar to Scrooge in A Christmas Carol and it's actually much more interesting than Rosie purely recalling her past. Instead, she is actual
ly there, re-living it.
Eva Woods is very good at exploring relationships. I think the relationship between sisters can often be a very complex one and Rosie and Daisy have had their fair share of issues. But underlying all of that is the link that they share; they may not like each other at times but they know each other better than anyone else.
The Lives We Touch also looks at the consequences of our actions and also fate. Our actions cause ripples among many people, something we don't always take into account. However, some things are completely out of our control, there is nothing we can do to change certain aspects of our lives.
I very much enjoyed Eva Wood's writing style again, it has a fresh and modern feel. I think this book will appeal to many readers, one to make you think and reassess.

Many thanks to Sphere for sending me a copy of this book to review. 

BOOK REVIEW: The Cuckoo's Calling by Robert Galbraith

When a troubled model falls to her death from a Mayfair balcony, it is assumed that she has committed suicide. However, her brother has his doubts and calls in private detective Cormoran Strike to investigate.
Stike is a war veteran- wounded both physically and psychologically- and his private life is in disarray. The case gives him a financial life line but it comes at a personal cost: the more he delves into the young model’s world, the darker things become and the closer he gets to terrible danger…

Publisher: Sphere

Pages: 550

After binge-watching the TV adaptation, I have been meaning to read the books and I’m so glad that I did as I loved The Cuckoo’s Calling. Writing under the pseudonym of Robert Galbraith, J.K. Rowling introduces us to the character of Cormoran Strike. Ex-military police, Strike is now working as a private detective. But he is not having much luck in his private or professional life. His highly toxic relationship seems to have come to an end and he is sleeping in his office, an office that he will no longer be able to use if he doesn’t pay his overdue bills. Strike’s luck may well be about to change; firstly his new temp Robin Ellacott arrives and she is not like the others. Bright, assertive and genuinely interested in the job, Strike finds her presence refreshing. Secondly, a new client comes knocking; John Bristow wants Strike to investigate the death of his supermodel sister Lula Landry. A verdict of suicide has been recorded but Bristow is convinced she was murdered. Strike is not so sure but Bristow is willing to pay handsomely for his services  and Strike is no position to refuse. As Strike and Robin begin investigating Lula’s death, they discover a dark web of deceit that puts Strike in great danger yet he is determined to get to the truth.

Robert Galbraith is a fantastic storyteller and I know that this is a series I will enjoy and re-read many times. The characters are fantastic and the plot is well paced. I have a total crush on both Strike and Robin and I mostly enjoyed their interactions as they work each other out.

Even though I knew the outcome due to watching the TV programme, I still could  not put the book down. I would highly recommend The Cuckoo’s Calling, I can’t wait to read book two!

BOOK REVIEW: How to be Happy by Eva Woods

It’s the smallest things that make the biggest difference…
Annie has been sad for so long that she’s forgotten how to be any other way. She’s trudging miserably through every day, sheer determination keeping her going. Until she meets Polly. Polly is everything that Annie is not. She’s colourful, joyful, happy. And Polly is facing the greatest challenge of her life: how to die well.
Polly has one hundred days to help Annie find happiness. Annie’s convinced it is impossible, but so is saying no to Polly. And on an unforgettable journey, Annie begins to realise that maybe, just maybe, there’s still colour to be found in the world.
But then it becomes clear that Polly’s about to need her new friend more than ever… and Annie will have to decide once and for all whether letting others in is a risk  worth taking.

Publisher: Sphere

Pages: 376

How to be Happy is an incredibly uplifting read. Annie has been sad for such a long time that it has just become normal; that is until she meets Polly. Polly is dying from cancer and she’s determined to make the most of the little time she has left. Their paths cross and Polly decides that she has the next 100 days to help Annie find happiness. It is an unlikely basis for a friendship but maybe they are just what each other needs.

I very much enjoyed Eva Wood’s writing style, the characters, Annie and Polly in particular, are vivid and believable. Both women are dealing with their fair share of tragedy in entirely different ways. Polly knows that she must make Annie see the beauty in life again; the small things that can bring true happiness and joy.

Cancer is never an easy subject to deal with in a book and I felt that Eva Wood’s portrayal was very honest and believable. It was clear to see that she had researched Polly’s illness and she showed the many stages that Polly has to endure.

How to be Happy is a lovely book, it is sad at times but it is also uplifting. It made me take stock and appreciate what I have in life and it’s always good to do that isn’t it?

BLOG TOUR: Million Love Songs by Carole Matthews

Carole Matthews published her latest book, Million Love Songs,  just last week and it is fantastic, you can check out my review here. If you've not picked up a copy yet then here's the synopsis:

After splitting up with her cheating husband, Ruby Brown is ready for a change: she’s single for the first tome in years and is going to dive into this brave new world with a smile on her face and a spring in her step. The last thing she’s looking for is a serious relationship.Mason represents everything Ruby wants right now: he’s charming, smooth and perfect for some no-strings attached fun. Joe on the other hand is kind and attractive, but comes with the sort of baggage Ruby wants to avoid: an annoyingly attractive ex-wife and two teenage children.But although Ruby might think she knows what she wants, she might be surprised to learn just what she needs to be truly happy. Let your heart sing this Spring… with Million Love Songs.

I'm very excited to be part of this lovely blog tour as it is all about beautiful love songs which I am a complete sucker for! Carole has created her own Spotify playlist for the book which you can listen to by clicking here.  Here's some of my favourites, I've narrowed it down as I do have quite an extensive list!

1. Have I Told You Lately by Van Morrison- this was the first song we danced to at our wedding!
2. Make You Feel My Love by Adele or Bob Dylan- The band
played this at our wedding and I loved it, had not heard it before but it's perfect!
3. At Last by Etta James- Beautiful song, gives me goosebumps!
4. XO by Beyonce- I LOVE Beyonce and this is one of those happy love songs!
5. Breaking the Law by Emile Sande- this song means a great deal to me, do you have someone who would break the law for you?
6. The Rose by Bette Midler- I fell in love with Bette Midler after watching Beaches and I love this song- she's hilarious to follow on Twitter too!

Make sure you get your hands on Carole's latest book as you won't be disappointed and let me know if you have any favourite love songs! 

BOOK REVIEW: Million Love Songs by Carole Matthews

After splitting up with her cheating husband, Ruby Brown is ready for a change: she’s single for the first tome in years and is going to dive into this brave new world with a smile on her face and a spring in her step. The last thing she’s looking for is a serious relationship.
Mason represents everything Ruby wants right now: he’s charming, smooth and perfect for some no-strings attached fun. Joe on the other hand is kind and attractive, but comes with the sort of baggage Ruby wants to avoid: an annoyingly attractive ex-wife and two teenage children.
But although Ruby might think she knows what she wants, she might be surprised to learn just what she needs to be truly happy. Let your heart sing this Spring… with Million Love Songs.
Publisher: Sphere

Pages: 400

Paperback March 22^nd

Carole Matthews publishes two books a year and I really don’t know how she does it! Million Love Songs is a warm, entertaining feel-good read with a slightly raunchier feel than Carole’s other books (You just wait and see what happens to Ruby when she visits Paris!).

Ruby Brown is recently divorced and definitely not looking for love; instead she is focusing on enjoying life and having some fun. But as is always the way when you’re not looking- Ruby finds herself with not one but two men pursuing her. Joe is her scuba-diving instructor, he’s handsome and kind but weighed down with so much baggage. Ruby loves spending time with him but the ex-wife and two sulky teenage children are ringing alarm bells. Suitor number two is Mason and he has his own complications in that he is Ruby’s boss; his family own the chain of pubs that Ruby works in. He is fit, rich and too smooth for his own good. So Ruby has a decision to make, two men, each with their own positives  but also complications; can either one make her truly happy?

I love Carole’s books, her main characters are always likeable and Ruby is no different. I loved how she was going out there, determined to have some fun after a messy divorce. She doesn’t always get it right but this just made her more believable and endearing.

Ruby’s best friend, Claire brings an extra element to the book; she is a  huge Gary Barlow fan (hence the title) and she follows her idol around the country hoping for a mere glimpse. Ruby tags along on a few of these trips and whilst making her a true Take That fan, they also make her realise that Ruby does want a relationship. Her friend is chasing someone unobtainable but Ruby has two available men in front of her that may offer her future happiness.

As I said before, this is probably Carole’s raunchiest book but I want to clarify that it is not done in a crude manner. I felt that she fitted the love scenes into the book in an appropriate way, they make the book feel a little more grown up and I think readers will welcome this slight change.

Million Love Songs shows Carole’s huge talent, the writing is excellent as usual, it’s a very entertaining read so go and get your copy! The hardback and e-book are already out and the paperback is published today!

Many thanks to Sphere for sending me a copy of the book to review, I will also be on the blog tour for this on March 31st! 

BLOG TOUR: Christmas Cakes and Mistletoe Nights by Carole Matthews- WIN A SIGNED COPY!!

I am so excited to be on the blog tour today for Carole Matthews' latest book, Christmas Cakes and Mistletoe Kisses. This fantastic festive read is Carole's 30th book which I think we can all agree, is a fabulous achievement. I think Carole is one of the hardest working authors I know; she writes two books a year and is prolific on social media- she always makes time to share her news and interact with her readers and fans. I think that Christmas Cakes and Mistletoe Nights will prove very popular, here's the synopsis and my review: 

Fay and Danny are madly in love and it's all Fay's ever dreamt of. But she left everything- including the delightful cake shop she used to run- to be with Danny on his cosy canal boat The Dreamcatcher. And as she soon finds out, making delicious cakes on the water isn't always smooth sailing!
Then Fay gets a call from her friends, a call that sends her back to where it all began, back to where she first met Danny, back to her friends and the cake shop in the garden. It will be hard being away from Danny but their relationship is strong enough to survive... isn't it?
Fay soon falls happily back in love with her passion for baking- especially now she's back on dry land again!- and starts to wonder if she ever should have left. With Christmas around the corner, she is determined that her friends will have a very merry time, but does that mean even more time away from Danny?

Publisher: Sphere

Pages: 389

This is Carole Matthews' 30th book, how fantastic is that! I honestly don't know how she does it but I'm so glad that she does!
Christmas Cakes and Mistletoe Nights is the sequel to Carole's extremely successful book, The Cake Shop in the Garden. It is one of my favourite of Carole's books so I was very excited to read this one and catch up with all the old characters again. I think you could read this as a stand-alone but I would highly recommend reading the first book too as you wouldn't want to miss out.
Fay and Danny are making a life for themselves, things are hard going but they are loving canal life on Danny's boat. Fay gets a phone call from Lija who is worried as their friend Stan is unwell and she could do with a hand looking after him as she also has the cafe to run. Fay is reluctant to leave Danny but Stan is like a second father to her so she knows she has to go back. She slots back into life at the cafe and is so proud to see how well Lija is doing but she clearly needs help. Fay is torn- she misses Danny terribly but then she also feels at home back with her friends. What if she should not have left? Where does that leave her and Danny in the future?
Christmas Cakes and Mistletoe Nights is a real delight. It was so good to be back with the characters I love from the first book. Lija is my particular favourite and her rea

ctions and one-liners had me laughing out loud. Add into this, Lija's new assistant, Rainbow, who is a fantastic creation. Bubbly, bright and happy about EVERYTHING, Rainbow brings a real  breath of fresh air to the story- you will love her!
As with all of Carole's Christmas books, it is not too in your face. Yes, there's Christmas trees and the odd mince pie but it is not too twee or cheesy as some Christmas books can be!
I very much enjoyed Carole's descriptions of the food at the cafe; she gives daily descriptions of the cakes that Lija and Fay bake  and it will make your mouth water.
The romance is still very much alive for Fay and Danny, they are a lovely couple and you feel that they found each other at the right time. It always seems to be outside pressures that cause them trouble  and you are just left hoping that their relationship is strong enough.
Christmas Cakes and Mistletoe Nights is such a lovely read and the cover is stunning. I would highly recommend it plus it would be the perfect Christmas gift for many a book lover!

So if this has whet your appetite- you can win a signed copy of Christmas Cakes and Mistletoe Nights, all you need to do is leave a comment on this post before midnight on October 25th and I shall draw a name out of a hat! The competition is open to UK residents only- Good Luck!

BLOG TOUR: Paper Hearts and Summer Kisses by Carole Matthews

I am so excited to be on the blog tour today for Paper Hearts and Summer Kisses, the beautiful new book from Carole Matthews. Here's the synopsis:

Christie Chapman is a single mum who spends her days commuting to her secretarial job in London and looking after her teenage son Finn. It's not an easy life, but Christie finds comfort in her love of crafting and spends her spare time working on her beautiful creations. From intricately designed cards to personalised gifts, Christie's flair for the handmade knows no bounds and it's not long before opportunity comes knocking.
Now Christie can see a future full of hope and possibility for her and Finn and if the handsome Max is to be believed, one full of love too. And then, all of a sudden, her world is turned upside down. Christie knows that something has to give, but can she really give up her dreams and the chance of love?
Will Christie find her happy ending?

Publisher: Sphere

Pages: 421

Paper Hearts and Summer Kisses is the stunning new book from Carole Matthews. The cover is absolutely beautiful, definitely my favourite cover of Carole's and it makes the book even more perfect to give as a gift.
Christie is a single mum to Finn, she commutes into London every day to work as a legal PA. She has very little spare time but when she does, nothing makes her happier than paper crafting. She loves coming up with new ideas and designs and out of the blue she is given the opportunity to use her talents for a possible new career. An American craft company are looking to sell their products in the UK and they feel that Christie would be the perfect ambassador. The offer is very tempting especially when it is being pushed by Max Alexander (in my head he was the Christian Grey of the crafting world but without the whips etc) he is the very attractive CEO of the company and he and Christie have instant chemistry.
Christie knows that this is exactly the opportunity that she needs but then everything changes. Finn is taken ill and Christie's world implodes. All she cares about is her son and making him better. Maybe her dreams will have to be put on hold or maybe she will have to give up on them altogether.
As usual, Carole Matthews writes from the heart and Paper Hears and Summer Kisses is a beautiful story. Christie is clearly very kind  and an excellent mother to Finn. She is also incredibly independent, resilient and ambitious, what's not to like? It is clear that she is having to juggle so much and as the reader you are just hoping that she chooses the right ball to drop.
I know near to nothing about the crafting world so don't be put off the book if you have little experience of it too. It was very interesting to dip into it though and learn about the techniques being used and the community driving it. Christie shows how it is possible to turn a hobby and a passion into a career and a successful business; something I feel is much more achievable in present times than it has ever been.
If, like me, you are a fan of Carole Matthews then you will not be disappointed. If you've not read anything by this fabulous author then Paper Hearts and Summer Kisses would be a great place to start.

Carole Matthews wanted to use this blog tour to create a paper chain of thanks so I was sent an extra copy of the book to give as a gift. I chose my friend Jennie who is a big Carole Matthews fan! She is a really lovely person who works tirelessly at my daughter's school to raise funds so the children can have lovely new equipment and treats. I know that Jennie really loved the book and she has already passed it on to her mum who is also a fan! I know I said before but this book would be a lovely gift for someone so if you can think of a worthy recipient then why not continue the paper chain?

Many thanks to Stephanie for inviting me to be part of the blog tour, check out the other posts for more reviews, interviews and competitions! 

BOOK REVIEW: A Boy Made of Blocks by Keith Stuart

Meet thirty something Dad, Alex.
He loves his wife Jody but has forgotten how to show it. He loves his son, Sam, but doesn't understand him. Something has to change.
Meet eight-year-old Sam.
Beautiful, surprising, autistic. To him, the world is a puzzle he can't solve on his own.
When Sam starts to play Minecraft, it opens up a place where Alex and Sam begin to rediscover both themselves and each other...

Publisher: Sphere

Pages: 387

This book is getting so much attention and I feel it is rightly deserved as A Boy Made of Blocks is brilliant.
At the beginning of the book Alex has just left the marital home to stay with his friend Dan. Things have been tense between him and his wife Jody for a long time but it has finally reached breaking point.The main cause of tension is their eight-year-old son, Sam who is autistic. Alex struggles to cope with Sam's behaviour and it has got to the point where Jody can't cope with the both of them.
Alex is suddenly on the periphery of their family life and he has no idea how to get back in. But Sam offers him a life-line when he starts playing the computer game Minecraft. Suddenly Alex has an activity he can do with his son that doesn't carry the same problems and pitfalls as others he has tried. As they play they slowly start to reconnect and Alex begins to see his son for what he is, an eight-year-old boy rather than  viewing him as a problem to be solved.
I have family and close friends who have children on the autistic spectrum so I do have some limited experience of it. The author is writing from first hand experience of raising an autistic child and the situations and tensions he describes rang true with what those around me deal with on a daily basis.
This book is not just about autism and it's many challenges but rather about being a parent. Keith Stuart lays bare the ways in which having children changes us all. He shows how the feeling of responsibility can be overwhelming Alex and Jody's relationship is being damaged by this person they created together; Sam has altered both of their identities and focus. They story shows them both having to come to terms with Sam's condition on their own before they can even begin to think abour working together again.
I was so impressed by the characters the author presents. They are believable and honest, vulnerable and hard to like at times. Alex is almost still behaving like a child, he needs to face up to a huge and tragic event from his childhood in order to be able to cope in the present. Everyone around him knows this but he has to come to the realisation himself and seek help.
There were so many poignant moments in this book and some of the interactions between characters were breathtaking. Keith Stuart expertly shows his character's emotions and inner turmoil through the language he uses. His ability to explore such an emotive and sensitive subject is testament to his talent as an author.
I urge you to read this book, I can see now why so many people are talking about it.

BOOK REVIEW: The Chocolate Lovers' Christmas by Carole Matthews

Christmas is just around the corner but the women of The Chocolate Lovers' Club have more to worry about than present shopping.
Lucy loves running Chocolate Heaven but she hasn't spent time with her boyfriend, Aiden in weeks. And then her ex-fiance turns up and things become even more complicated.
Nadia hasn't let herself get close to a man for a long time, yet she can't help feeling drawn to Jacob. Will he be her last chance for a happy ending?
Chantal and her husband, Ted, are besotted with their baby daughter Lana- but Chantal isn't sure that's enough to base a marriage on.
Autumn is dealing with a tragedy that has hit too close to home. But when she doesn't get the support she needs from her fiance, will she look elsewhere for comfort?

Publisher: Sphere

Pages: 470

I know it's nearly New Year but I think you still have a bit of time to fit one last festive read in and if I were you I would make it The Chocolate Lovers' Christmas by Carole Matthews. Chocolate and Christmas in one book- perfect!
It is the third book in this series but Carole introduces it very well so you could happily read it as a stand alone book.
Lucy is now running Chocolate Heaven (a speciality chocolate cafe) she is in her element but it is also a little harder than she has expected. Chantal is getting her head around being a new mum which is tough enough without your husband having recently welcomed another child with a different woman. Autumn is really struggling with her brother's death but is trying to put a brave face on it even though she is getting very little support from her fiance and Nadia is trying to do her best for her young son but it is tough being a single mum, especially when you can't find a job. The women rely on each other and Chocolate Heaven is a place of solace for all of them. Carole Matthews shows the strength of friendship and how these women go out of their way to support each other.
As always, Carole's writing is superb and it is clear to see how comfortable she is with these long standing characters, their friendship and interactions feel very natural and you are almost made to feel like part of their group as you are reading it. Their individual storylines are entertaining on their own merit but Carole brings them together and ties up all the lose ends all whilst keeping a brilliant pace.
The Chocolate Lovers' Christmas is great for this time of year; fun, festive and entertaining. Carole Matthews triumphs again!

BOOK REVIEW: The Beachside Guest House by Vanessa Greene

When Rosa and Bee get together in the run up to Bee's wedding, they reminisce about the holiday they took together as teenagers to the beautiful Greek island of Paros. They remember the sandy coves, the guest house in the converted windmill where they stayed with their friend Iona, and the gorgeous local men. As memories of that long-forgotten holiday resurface, they are forced to confront the turns their lives have taken and the guilt they both feel about letting Iona slip away from them.
When they learn that the windmill guesthouse is going bust, they form a plan: why not go back to the island and take it over themselves. And so begins a life-changing journey because it turns out that opening a guest house and reliving their teenage dreams isn't that easy. 

Publisher: Sphere

Pages: 371

Somehow I missed Vanessa Greene's last book, The Seafront Tearooms but I loved her first book The Vintage Teacup Club. The Beachside Guesthouse is full of the same warmth and friendship, with a beautiful Greek island location thrown in.
Vanessa Greene gives us three fantastic female leads, Rosa, Bee and Iona, The three girls visited the small of island of Paros when they were teenagers and they fell in love with the place. Years later they hear that the converted windmill they stayed in is up for sale so Bee and Rosa decide to return there to set up a guesthouse and build a new future. They let Iona know of their plans via letter but they don't expect a response seen as she bizarrely cut them out of her life several years ago,
All three women have different lives and struggles since being on Paros last time. How different will the island be now they are seeing it through adult eyes and how welcoming will the locals be of their new business venture?
I enjoyed Vanessa Greene's writing style, it is very warm and welcoming but also extremely witty in places. There is so much to interest the reader within the story; a new business venture; exploring the island; old relationships; new relationships, winning round the locals but most of all the book is about friendship and the important impact it can have.
The Greek island setting for this book was perfect and Vanessa Greene's descriptions were beautiful.  I could imagine the crystal clear waters, the sun setting and the sounds and smells coming from the local markets and tavernas.
The Beachside Guesthouse is a really lovely read that I would highly recommend. This summer has been a bit of a disappointment weather-wise so why not allow Vanessa Greene to transport you to a beautiful island in the glittering Mediterranean sun?

Many thanks to the lovely people at Sphere for sending me a copy of this book to review. 

BOOK REVIEW: The Little Flower Shop by the Sea by Ali McNamara

The blossom is out in the little Cornish harbour town of St Felix.
But Poppy Carmichael's spirits aren't lifted by the pretty west country spring. Inheriting her grandmother's flower shop has forced her to return to Cornwall, a place that holds too many memories.
Poppy is determined to do her best for the sake of her adored grandmother, but she struggles with the responsibility of the more shabby-than-chic shop. And with the added complication of Jake, the gruff but gorgeous local flower grower, Poppy is very tempted to run away...
The pretty little town has a few surprises in store for Poppy. With new friends to help her and romance blooming, it's time for Poppy to open her heart to St. Felix and to the special magic of a little flower shop by the sea!

Publisher: Sphere

Pages: 391

This book is just lovely! One of those books that feels like a lovely, warm hug from your best friend.
Poppy Carmichael is back in the beautiful west country village of St. Felix; a place she has not visited for many years as her memories were too upsetting. However, she has no choice but to return when her grandmother leaves her The Daisy Chain, her precious flower shop which has a very special place in the hearts of the St. Felix residents. Poppy has run away from responsibility her whole adult life but she is determined to make her grandmother proud. Whilst she faces up to the past, she becomes very involved in town life  and the people welcome her with open arms. Jake, the local flower grower is particularly friendly but Poppy is unsure if she will ever be able to let enough of her barriers down in order to let anybody in.
Ali McNamara is a fantastic author and I think that The Little Flower Shop by the Sea is my favourite book of hers. I loved the setting, the characters (animal and human) the story-line, dialogue, I could go on and on. As you can tell I would highly recommend this book, it is spot on for this time of year and beautifully written.

Many thanks to the Sphere for sending me a review copy, the book is out now!

Book Review: Summer at Little Beach Street Bakery by Jenny Colgan

Summer has arrived in the Cornish town of Mount Polbearne and Polly Waterford couldn't be happier. Because Polly is in love; she in love with the beautiful seaside town that she calls home; she's in love with running the bakery on Beach Street, and she's in love with her boyfriend Huckle.
And yet there's something unsettling about the gentle, summer breeze that's floating through the town. Selina, recently widowed, hopes that moving to Mount Polbearne will ease her grief, but Polly has a secret that could destroy her friend's fragile recovery.
Responsibilities that Huckle thought he'd left behind are back and Polly finds it hard to cope with his increasingly long periods of absence.
Polly sifts flour, kneads dough and bakes bread, but nothing can calm the storm she knows is coming. Is Polly about to lose everything she loves?

Publisher: Sphere

Pages: 448

Summer at Little Beach Street Bakery is a lovely, lovely read and perfect f
or this time of year! Jenny Colgan summarises the story so far so you could read it without having read the first one but why would you want to miss out on the first one when it's so good?
Polly is still living in Mount Polbearne but she now shares the lighthouse with her boyfriend Huckle. She's still looking after the Beach Street Bakery for Mrs Manse and still being followed to work by her adopted pet puffin Neil. However, everything is about to change and all that Polly has worked so hard for is threatened. Can she really fight for everything again or is it time to call it a day?
I have enjoyed all of the Jenny Colgan books that I have read but I think that the Beach Street Bakery two are my favourite. I love, love, love Polly's character; she has found a home and a job that she loves and is prepared to fight for it, I like that she doesn't give up easily. I also have a bit of a thing about lighthouses so I was really excited that Polly and Huckle now live in one.
Mount Polbearne is almost a character in itself and Jenny Colgan creates these fictional communities so well. I can really picture it and would love to visit for a few days if it really existed.
Neil the puffin reappears in this book and you can't help but fall in love with this adorable little chap. He was Polly's first real friend on the Island and he has become a big part of the community. Polly is faced with the tough decision of keeping Neil or reuniting him with his own kind.
Summer at Little Beach Street Bakery is a warm, inviting and completely lovely read. Jenny Colgan is so good at drawing you into her fictional world and making you feel like part of the community; these books are not to be missed.

Many thanks to the lovely people at Sphere for sending me a copy of this book to review, Jenny has also written a book for young readers which I shall be reviewing very soon! 

The Cake Shop in the Garden by Carole Matthews, REVIEW AND GIVEAWAY!!!

Carole Matthew's brilliant new book The Cake Shop in the Garden is published tomorrow! I was extremely lucky to receive a review copy of this book very early and I LOVED it! Carole is one of the loveliest people I have ever met and the fact that she writes two fabulous books a year is astounding! I have re-posted my review below and I am also very excited to have a copy of the book to give away, simply leave a comment and I shall announce the winner (drawn randomly) in 7 days time! This give away is only open to UK residents, Good Luck! 

Fay Merryweather runs her cake shop from her beautiful garden. She whips up airy sponges and scrumptious scones, while her customers enjoy the lovely blossoms and gorgeous blooms. Looking after the cake shop, the garden, and her cantankerous mother means Fay is always busy but she accepts her responsibilities because if she doesn't do all this then who will?
Then Danny Wilde walks into her life and makes Fay question every decision she's ever made.
When a sudden tragedy strikes, Fay's entire world is thrown off balance even further and she doesn't know which way to turn. Can Fay find the strength to make a life changing decision even if it means giving up the thing she loves the most? Life, love and family are about to collide in  The Cake Shop in the Garden.

Publisher: Sphere

Pages: 432

Publication Date: Hardcover and Ebook available now, paperback published 23rd April

The Cake Shop in the Garden, in my opinion, is Carole Matthews' best book! I think it is possibly her longest at 432 pages but I devoured it very quickly.
Fay Merryweather is the central character, she runs The Canal Side Cafe from her childhood home with the help of her Russian assistant Lija. She loves running the cafe but it is also a necessity as she is the sole carer of her mother. There is not actually anything medically wrong with Fay's mum but she took to her bed several years ago and is refusing to budge

. Fay's sister Edie couldn't care less, she lives in New York and hasn't visited for years. She only really contacts Fay if she needs her to move some money to her ever dwindling bank account.So Fay has a lot  to deal with; she does have a long-term partner Anthony but he seems to be more interested in his hand-bell ringing hobby than putting any effort into their relationship.
Fay is just plodding along, she knows that she's not necessarily happy but she feels trapped by it all, especially her responsibilities to her mother. Danny Wilde turns up on his boat one morning at the bottom of Fay's garden and makes her realise that she deserves so much more. He quit his job in the city and is looking for work so he ends up helping Fay tidy the garden ready for the summer. The attraction between them is instant and palpable but Fay has Anthony and the business to run whereas Danny is just embarking on a new adventure. Fay's world is thrown into even more turmoil when tragedy strikes at the heart of her family. Will she be able to hold it all together and does she really want to?
I loved, loved, loved Fay! I could have shaken her at times but she is a brilliant character. You get a real sense of the weight of responsibility she has on her shoulders; she doesn't do anything without thinking about how it will affect everyone else first. Danny is exactly what she needs; someone to give her a jolt so she notices that life is just passing her by.
Lija, Fay's assistant is one of the best characters Carole has ever created. She is feisty, loyal to Fay and very, very funny. She provided me with many laugh out loud moments and was one of my favourite parts of the book.
There was a huge and brilliant twist at the end of the book which I in no way saw coming. I really couldn't believe what I was reading, Carole really pulls it out of the bag with this one!
I think people are going to love The Cake Shop in the Garden, it's a great story, good characters, a few surprises, humour, warmth and plenty of cake, what's not to like?

Don't forget to leave a comment below in order to be in with a chance of winning a copy of this fabulous book! 

BOOK TOUR: The Longest Ride by Nicholas Sparks

Two couples. Two love stories.
One epic tale.
Ninety-one-year-old Ira Levinson is in trouble. Struggling to stay conscious after a car crash, an image of his adored- and long-dead- wife Ruth appears. Urging him to hang on, she lovingly recounts the joys and sorrows of their life together: how they met, the dark days of WWII and its unrelenting effect on their families.
A few miles away, college student Sophia Danko's life is about to change when she meets the young, rugged Luke and is thrown into a world far removed from her privileged school life. Sophia sees a tantalising future for herself, but Luke is keeping a secret that could destroy it all. 

Publisher: Sphere

Pages: 465

I was very excited to be asked to take part in this blog tour. The Notebook is one of my favourite films but I have to hold my hands up and admit that I have not read any of the author's books. I don't think I'm alone as one of the rea
sons behind this blog tour was to get people to read the book before the film comes out.
The story flits between Ira and Sophia and Luke. Ira has just been in a car accident, he is seriously hurting and waiting to be found. His wife Ruth, who died several years ago, appears to him and we gradually learn about their relationship and the love they shared. Sophia is mending a broken heart when she meets Luke, he is not her usual type but the attraction between them is instant . Love does not run smoothly for either couple but it is interesting to see how they overcome obstacles and also how their two separate stories come together.
Ira was my favourite character and I did enjoy his parts of the book the most. I felt that his love for Ruth was so genuine, I found his story really interesting and very believable too.
I particularly liked the warmth with which Nicholas Sparks writes. I felt that he really gets to the heart of the characters and shows them at their most vulnerable.
The Longest Ride is about love and also the way it doesn't run smoothly. The plot grabbed my attention and held it throughout; it is a book I would highly recommend.

Many thanks to Victoria at Sphere for asking me to take part in this blog tour, the book is out now! 

Book Review: The Cake Shop in the Garden by Carole Matthews

Fay Merryweather runs her cake shop from her beautiful garden. She whips up airy sponges and scrumptious scones, while her customers enjoy the lovely blossoms and gorgeous blooms. Looking after the cake shop, the garden, and her cantankerous mother means Fay is always busy but she accepts her responsibilities because if she doesn't do all this then who will?
Then Danny Wilde walks into her life and makes Fay question every decision she's ever made.
When a sudden tragedy strikes, Fay's entire world is thrown off balance even further and she doesn't know which way to turn. Can Fay find the strength to make a life changing decision even if it means giving up the thing she loves the most? Life, love and family are about to collide in  The Cake Shop in the Garden.

Publisher: Sphere

Pages: 432

Publication Date: Hardcover and Ebook available now, paperback published 23rd April

The Cake Shop in the Garden, in my opinion, is Carole Matthews' best book! I think it is possibly her longest at 432 pages but I devoured it very quickly.
Fay Merryweather is the central character, she runs The Canal Side Cafe from her childhood home with the help of her Russian assistant Lija. She loves running the cafe but it is also a necessity as she is the sole carer of her mother. There is not actually anything medically wrong with Fay's mum but she took to her bed several years ago and is refusing to budge

. Fay's sister Edie couldn't care less, she lives in New York and hasn't visited for years. She only really contacts Fay if she needs her to move some money to her ever dwindling bank account.So Fay has a lot  to deal with; she does have a long-term partner Anthony but he seems to be more interested in his hand-bell ringing hobby than putting any effort into their relationship.
Fay is just plodding along, she knows that she's not necessarily happy but she feels trapped by it all, especially her responsibilities to her mother. Danny Wilde turns up on his boat one morning at the bottom of Fay's garden and makes her realise that she deserves so much more. He quit his job in the city and is looking for work so he ends up helping Fay tidy the garden ready for the summer. The attraction between them is instant and palpable but Fay has Anthony and the business to run whereas Danny is just embarking on a new adventure. Fay's world is thrown into even more turmoil when tragedy strikes at the heart of her family. Will she be able to hold it all together and does she really want to?
I loved, loved, loved Fay! I could have shaken her at times but she is a brilliant character. You get a real sense of the weight of responsibility she has on her shoulders; she doesn't do anything without thinking about how it will affect everyone else first. Danny is exactly what she needs; someone to give her a jolt so she notices that life is just passing her by.
Lija, Fay's assistant is one of the best characters Carole has ever created. She is feisty, loyal to Fay and very, very funny. She provided me with many laugh out loud moments and was one of my favourite parts of the book.
There was a huge and brilliant twist at the end of the book which I in no way saw coming. I really couldn't believe what I was reading, Carole really pulls it out of the bag with this one!
I think people are going to love The Cake Shop in the Garden, it's a great story, good characters, a few surprises, humour, warmth and plenty of cake, what's not to like?

Many thanks to the very lovely Carole Matthews for sending me a copy of her fabulous new book! 

BOOK REVIEW: The Christmas Surprise by Jenny Colgan

Rosie Hopkins, newly engaged, is looking forward to an exciting year in the little sweetshop she owns and runs. But when fate strikes Rosie and her boyfriend, Stephen, a terrible blow, threatening everything they hold dear; it's going to take all their strength and the support of their families and friends to hold them together... After all, don't they say it takes a village to raise a child?

Publisher: Sphere

Pages: 383 

I have read the other two Rosie Hopkins books by Jenny Colgan so I was chuffed when I realised that Jenny's latest festive read was all about Rosie too. Don't worry if you've not read the others (I would highly recommend them) as the first chapter summarises everything you need to know.
Rosie and Stephen are still living in the beautiful village of Lipton, Rosie running her Aunt Lillian's sweetshop and Stephen teaching at the local school. They are just beginning to plan their wedding when their world is turned upside down. Rosie and Stephen's future becomes very uncertain when they realise they need to move from Lillian's beautiful cottage. Stephen's mother, Lady Lipton is still as frosty and his sister is also back on the scene from New York and after her inheritance. Things seem bleak for the couple and Christmas is just round the corner, they are both thinking it will be their last in the village that has been their home and sanctuary.
Jenny Colgan writes such enjoyable books, I purposely read this to get myself in the festive spirit and it certainly did the trick. Rosie and Stephen are both fantastic characters, I was rooting for them to sort their problems out. The book is warm and very funny but Jenny Colgan does not shy away from the real issues so you get a bit of everything on this book.
I think that Christmas books are very difficult to get right, they do need to have a lot of sentiment whilst avoiding being twee. Jenny Colgan gets the balance just right and I would highly recommend The Christmas Surprise as part of your festive reading or perhaps to give as a gift.

Many thanks to Victoria at Sphere for sending me a copy of The Christmas Surprise to review. 

BOOK REVIEW: The Christmas Party by Carole Matthews

Louise Young is a devoted single mother whose only priority is providing for her daughter Mia. Louise has a good job in a huge international corporation and she's grateful for it. The only problem is her boss who can't keep his hands to himself, but Louise can handle him. What she really doesn't have time for is romance- until she meets the company's rising star, Josh Wallace.
Louise usually says no to evenings out, but she's decided to let her hair down tonight. It's the office Christmas party, she has a pretty dress to wear and she's looking forward to some champagne and fun. She's completely unaware that others around her are too busy playing dangerous games to enjoy the party- until she's pulled into those games herself...
Romance is in the air and secrets are about to be uncovered. It's going to be a night to remember at The Christmas Party.

Publisher: Sphere

Pages: 413 

If you are on the lookout for a festive read then look no further than The Christmas Party by Carole Matthews. This book was so good, it's full of believable characters, dangerous liaisons, mince pies and plenty of champagne to go round.
The main character is Louise Young, she has just got a job at Fossil Oil as personal assistant to Tyler Benson. She is overjoyed as it means she can begin providing properly for herself and her young daughter Mia. However, her boss' wondering hands are beginning to prove a problem and he is the one person she will definitely be trying to avoid at the Christmas party.
Tylers' wife Kirsten has had enough of his wondering eye and she's dreading the Christmas party this year. Kirsten has been a loyal and supportive wife but her patience is wearing thin. An unexpected guest at the party turns her world upside down, can she carry on being the perfect corporate wife when her first true love has just returned?
At the top of the Fossil Oil tree is Lance Harvey and his beautiful wife Melissa. Lance is getting older and it is becoming harder to fight off the younger and more able competition. Melissa has also been attracted to some of the younger competition; when her latest affair goes wrong she begins to wonder whether she should carry on supporting her erratic husband or strike out on her own?
The majority of the book takes place at the actual Christmas party and this was my favourite part. Carole Matthews got the atmosphere spot on when you put a group of overworked and unhappy people and a free bar together. There were many comical moments during the party and these really kept the pace of the book going. I think that this might be Carole's raciest book yet; the Christmas party provided many opportunities for couples to get to know each other better.
I liked the way that Carole kept the momentum going once the party had finished. We get to see the consequences of everyone's actions and it was good to see some get their just desserts.
The Christmas Party is a fabulous, festive read. It is also Carole's 25th book which alone is a truly marvellous achievement. If you are new to Carole's books then this would be a great place to start and then you will spoilt for choice with all of her other titles.

Many thanks to Sphere for sending me a copy of this book to review, The Christmas Party is out now!