Blog Tour: A Shore Thing by Portia Macintosh

It's survival of the fittest!

 From the moment Cleo met Lockie, her infuriatingly charming co-casting producer on hit reality show Welcome to Singledom, he’s been getting under her skin. Their job? Casting singles for the ultimate island romance. Their problem? They can’t agree on anything.

Now, the cameras are ready to roll, and the contestants—well, most of them—are en route. But when the threat of a tropical storm delays half the cast, launch night turns into a total disaster. With no Plan B, Cleo and Lockie are forced to step in as contestants. Just for 24 hours until the real stars arrive.

Simple, right? Except tensions are sky-high and sparks are flying for all the wrong reasons! All they have to do is couple-up and get voted off - but there’s a storm coming, so leaving the island might not be so easy. Cleo’s used to pulling strings behind the scenes, not falling headfirst into the drama.

But when the cameras stop rolling, will their fake fling fade with the credits—or could it be Cleo’s most unexpected plot twist yet?

Review

Sometimes, a book really hits the spot.

I resonate a little too strongly with Cleo, who is feeling very old and very single, despite - or perhaps because of her job casting singles for a long-running reality dating show. With falling ratings, her boss brings in Lockie. He's hot, full of fresh ideas, and he pushes every one of Cleo's buttons, good and bad. One thing leads to another, and next thing you know, Cleo is on screen in a tiny bikini, pretending to fall for Lockie to keep the cameras rolling.

And then the storm hits.

My favourite part of the book was definitely their time on the island. I found it totally believable that the circumstances would turbocharge relationship building and I enjoyed the other contestants evolving from deliberate caricatures to individuals realising it's okay to put down the mask. In a story set somewhat behind the curtain, it was nice to see what happens when the cameras stop rolling. It gave me hope that Cleo and Lockie fit well together, even once the outside world forces its way back in.

I did see the third act coming and while I wouldn't call myself vindictive, I do wish for a bit more grovelling, a bit more comeuppance where comeuppance is due. Now I can't imagine I'd ever enjoy getting stranded on an island, but a love story like Cleo and Lockie's would make it all worthwhile. 

If you're looking for some delicious 'reality' show goodness, this book might be for you!

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book via Rachel's Random Resources; all opinions are my own 

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

Author Bio 

Portia MacIntosh is the million copy bestselling author of over 20 romantic comedy novels. Whether it’s southern Italy or the French alps, Portia’s stories are the holiday you’re craving, conveniently packed in between the pages. Formerly a journalist, Portia lives with her husband and her dog in Yorkshire. 

Social Media Links
Facebook: @macintoshportia
Twitter: @PortiaMacintosh
Instagram: @portiamacintoshauthor
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Blog Tour: My Rock Star Neighbor by Kathy Strobos

When a wary rock star and a cynical reporter fake date to bury a scandalous rumor, will true love be exposed as the real story?

Nick: I do my best songwriting while playing my guitar on the fire escape. Unfortunately, my in-bed-at-ten next-door neighbor, Maddie, is not a fan of my music. She clambers out on the fire escape to yell at me about making "noise.”  In bunny slippers, no less. But then she trips and falls into my arms.

That photo of Maddie plastered all over me hits the papers, just as my dream recording company wants to sign my band. Which is a problem, because an obsessed fan is claiming that I’m her boyfriend and now the media is blowing up that I’m two-timing them both. Good-bye recording contract, unless…

Maddie: I’m supposed to cover the story. Not be the story! But when Nick begs me to fake date, I can’t resist the chance to be Nick’s girlfriend—even if fake—the opposite of my life as a city desk reporter. But my ex said I’m a terrible kisser, and there’s no way I want Mr. Hot Rock Star saying the same thing. Hence, clause 11 in our contract: There will be absolutely no physical contact.

Nick: When Maddie receives a threatening photo of the two of us with an X over her face, my desire to protect her suddenly feels all too real. It’s either a troll or her undercover investigation has been compromised. With both our careers at stake, is breaking up the only way to keep Maddie safe?

Review

I stayed up far too late reading this because I just couldn't put it down!

It starts innocently enough - a classic, implausible scenario leading to a fake relationship. And yet, it quickly reveals itself as so much more. Firstly and unusually for fake relationships, Maddie and Nick are already friends - if you can call ongoing friction over late night practice sessions 'friends'. They already know each other, giving their romance - both fake and real - additional layers, even as they grew closer. Second, Maddie's a reporter on the trail of a story about city corruption - and this addition had me hooked. It was a delight to see Nick and Maddie develop feelings as they interviewed public servants and hid behind dumpsters, rather than the usual public galas. It was woven together so well and helped their relationship grow in a wonderfully natural way, helped of course by a veritable legion of matchmaking friends.

Not only was I impressed by how the author made a compelling story about municipal corruption and handyman kickbacks, but she creates an incredible sense of place. I have no doubt that were I to go to New York City, I could walk in Nick and Maddie's footsteps

Fiction is meant to be fun, and let me tell you, this book delivered! For a delightful romance driven by a genuinely intriguing mystery, check out My Rock Star Neighbour.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book via Rachel's Random Resources; all opinions are my own. 

Purchase Links
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FHZ2LNFR/
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0FHZ2LNFR/ 
https://books.apple.com/us/book/my-rock-star-neighbor/id6748830148

Author Bio

Kathy Strobos is an award-winning author living in New York City with her husband and two children, amid a growing collection of books, toys, and dollhouses. She took a break from working as a lawyer to write romantic comedies full-time and get in shape. She is still working on getting in shape.

Born and raised in Manhattan, she loves writing about New York City and her smart heroines who live and fall in love there, amidst its vibrant energy and the aroma of homemade chocolate chip cookies. She is the award-winning author of: A Scavenger Hunt for Hearts, Partner Pursuit, Is This for Real?, Caper Crush, My Book Boyfriend, Love Is an Art and My Secret Snowflake. 

Social Media Links 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kathystroboswriter/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kathystrobosrewrites
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/kathy-strobos
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kathystrobos9451
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/21826543.Kathy_Strobos
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Kathy-Strobos/author/B09GGB2G1B
Audible: https://www.audible.com/author/Kathy-Strobos/B09GGB2G1B

Review: Can't Help Falling in Love by Sophie Sullivan

This is a surprisingly emotional fake relationship romance that also deals with themes of grief, family, and the weight of expectations.

Lexi's life took a turn for the dramatic a few years ago and she feels like she's barely holding it together as she scrambles to take care of a grieving mom, an aging house, an almost there degree, all while juggling two jobs. She is full of grit and determination, but her self esteem is at an all time low, and at the ripe old age of 25 she feels like life has passed her by.

If that sounds a little ridiculous to you, you're not alone, but push through and you remember how overwhelming it all felt to be mid twenties when it looked like everyone else has their life together. Once you slip back into that mindset, this book comes together like a comfortable old friend.

We have a handsome hero, his pushy parents, his meddling siblings, and supportive friends on both sides. We have lies and half truths and the (somewhat) slowly dawning realisation that this fake relationship doesn't feel that fake. We have a heroine who rescues herself and the man who gives her the push to do so. (We also have a bit of insta love, some loose plot ends, one glaring continuity error, and a boatload of sage wisdom just when Lexi needs it most)

If you enjoy fake relationships with just a little more emotional heft, I think you'll like this book. I know I did!

I received a copy of this book via Netgalley, all opinions are my own.

The Love Theorem by Camilla Isley

Are a rocket scientist and one of Hollywood’s brightest stars a match made in heaven or is it a catastrophe headed for a crash landing?

Lana loves four things: science, her cats, her friends, and her books. She’s on her way to earning her professorship when she finds out her long-term boyfriend has been sleeping with her best friend! That discovery has her hiding in the broom closet at a posh hotel. 

Only, it turns out broom closets are the place to be these days.  

Christian Slade, America’s sexiest man alive (as voted by fans), in a desperate attempt to escape the paparazzi finds himself in a broom closet with one sobbing occupant. Unable to leave a damsel in distress, he offers help, only to realise she has no idea who he is! It’s like he’s been given a gift. A smart, beautiful woman, who isn’t after him for fame and fortune . . . 

Soon Christian is buying a Tesla to impress his scientist with his eco credentials and taking her on dates where no one will recognise him.  

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

Review

The Love Theorem is a cute, funny romance about the scientist next door and the guy on the screen. Though they're not perfect - Lana is stubborn and her cheating ex has made her paranoid, Christian means well but stardom means he sometimes loses touch with reality - I thoroughly enjoyed these two falling in love and finding a balance that works for them.

I would've loved to see more of the background characters, and I'm glad to see some of them are getting their own books. I'm interested in seeing how Summer and Winter (Lana's childhood best friends) shake out going forward, given Summer kickstarted the plot by having an affair with Lana's boyfriend. Most of all, I'd like to see Penny (Christian's assistant) get a happy ending because she is hands down the most sensible person in this book.

It's a bit cheesy and full of wish fulfillment but reading this book made me happy. Also, Lana's passion for women in STEM is simply awesome. If you want a feel good Cinderella-style rom-com that swings between the wilds of academia and Hollywood luxury, please give this book a go!

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author via Rachel's Random Resources; all opinions are my own

Author Bio 

Camilla Isley is an engineer who left science behind to write bestselling contemporary rom-coms set all around the world. She lives in Italy and her first title for Boldwood, The Love Theorem, a Hollywood-meets-STEM romance, will be published in June 2023. 

Social Media Links
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/camilla.isley.10
Twitter: https://twitter.com/camillaisley
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/camillaisley/
Newsletter Sign Up: https://bit.ly/CamillaIsleyNews
Bookbub profile: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/camilla-isley

Blog Tour: One Moment in Time by Shari Low

Sometimes the best surprises reveal the most shocking secrets.

After three decades of marriage, Brenda Jones has decided to leave her husband, just as soon as they both return from a mystery trip with their daughter Zara. But she has no idea that Zara is flying them to Las Vegas to renew their vows.

Zara Jones has recreated almost every detail of her parent’s original wedding - now her only challenge is tracking down the two friends who were pictured with her mum and dad back in 1993.

Aiden Gregg is dealing with his own relationship woes when he receives an unexpected message from a complete stranger. WIth the help of Facebook, Zara has tracked him down and is asking if his parents are the other couple in the old photo? And if so, could he bring them to Vegas for a surprise reunion?

What Zara and Aiden don’t know is that thirty years ago, One Moment In Time changed everything.

Will rewinding the clock right the wrongs of the past?

Or are they all counting down to a rendezvous with disaster?

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

Review

Shari Low has a lovely gift for telling several overlapping stories, making you fall in love with multiple characters as their lives intersect in unexpected ways. The intersection of the four narrators - Brenda, her daughter Zara, Eileen, and her son Aiden - are only unexpected to some of them, because Zara, her sister Millie, and Aiden are conspiring to reunite their respective parents in Vegas.

With little hints from Brenda and Eileen's narration, the celebration of a lifetime is like a train wreck in slow motion, with every encounter sending dreams of happily ever after closer to the edge. From Aiden scheming to get his divorced parents both to Vegas, to the explosive reunion of the older generation, you simply have to keep reading to find out if Brenda and Colin make it to renew their vows, or if this last surprise is the straw that breaks Brenda's ever-patient back. And after so much build up, I would've enjoyed more on-page denouement of everyone in the aftermath.

I don't want to spoil the story because the twists make it fun, but there are happy endings and maybe a few more chances for the author to work her magic on loose ends.

Perfect for an escape from reality but don't start when you have somewhere else to be!

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book via Netgalley and Rachel's Random Resources; all opinions are my own.

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 Link
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/sharilowbooks
Twitter https://twitter.com/sharilow
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sharilowbooks/
Newsletter Sign Up https://bit.ly/ShariLownews
Bookbub profile https://www.bookbub.com/authors/shari-low

Blog Tour: An Unexpected Guest by Hannah Ellis

A family reunion takes everyone by surprise…

Jago Treneary hasn’t been home since his father’s funeral three years ago. Now, he’s returning to the Isles of Scilly for his brother’s wedding and is intent on building bridges with his family.

When a last-minute guest arrives to stay at his mum’s house, the trip takes an unexpected turn.

Soon, he’s playing tour guide for Sylvie and rediscovering the beautiful islands he grew up on.

He never expected to feel so at home.

But with his attention on Sylvie he neglects his family.

Before long he’s faced with a choice: follow his heart and see where things lead with Sylvie, or put the work into making things right with his family.

One thing seems certain: he can’t have it all.

With his time on Scilly coming to end, he needs to make some big decisions… fast.

Purchase Link - https://geni.us/ScillyBook5

Review

Jago Treneary is the mystery Treneary brother. All of his brothers got some early bird page time but all we know about Jago is that he's been in America for the last four books and he and older brother Lowen had a somewhat fractious relationship growing up. Now it's finally time for Jago take the spotlight and it feels the most weighty because Lowen's happily ever after is coming apart at the seams.

I really felt for Jago and Sylvie. A chance meeting sets them up with someone who could be the one, only they both have family issues to resolve and it happens to be the same family, because Jago's brother Lowen is Sylvie's cousin by his birth mother. Don't worry, there's nothing squicky, but one person is uncomfortable and I'll give you no prize for guessing who. 

If it wasn't for the family drama it would be a very straightforward boy meets girl. It sometimes felt like their relationship was simplified to make sure the series was tied up well. This meant that I didn't get a good grasp of Jago and Sylvie as people, but I honestly prefer it to the alternative where a series doesn't get a good ending.

Best enjoyed as the end of the series, especially after reading Lowen's book, though it can stand okay on its own. I know this is the last book about the Treneary boys and that makes me sad, because I'd love to see them live the success they've built, which is how you know it was a lovely ending.  Once again, we're left with a heartfelt story about the importance of family and the reminder that very little is absolutely good or bad when you look at it from someone else's perspective.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book via Rachel's Random Resources; all opinions are my own.

Author Bio
Hannah spent many years working in childcare before deciding she'd like to write books. When she's not busy writing she likes to read, drink tea and eat chocolate. She also enjoys yoga and jogging.

Social Media Links
FB: https://www.facebook.com/authorhannahellis
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BooksEllis
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/authorhannahellis/

Blog Tour: Finding Refuge in Bellbird Bay by Maggie Christensen

Thirty-five years ago, tragedy forced Bev Cooper to cut short her university studies and seek refuge in her hometown of Bellbird Bay. Today, as the owner of the thriving Pandanus Garden Centre and Café, Bev has moved beyond the past and is happy in her solitary existence.

Following the tragic death of his son’s wife, Iain Grant takes early retirement and moves with his devastated son and granddaughter to the peaceful coastal town of Bellbird Bay hoping it will provide the change of scene they all desperately need.

When Iain’s son accepts a position at Bev’s garden centre, the pair find themselves drawn into each other’s lives. But as they begin to enjoy an unexpected attraction, issues from the past threaten to derail their growing relationship.

Will the healing atmosphere of Bellbird Bay work its magic and provide a second chance in life, or will Bev find it too difficult to put the past behind her and enjoy her own happy ever after?

A heartwarming tale of family, friends, and how a second chance at love can happen when you least expect it.

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

Review

Feeling tired? Sad? Weighed down? This book is a soothing later-in-life romance set in a charming little coastal town. Yes, it's fifth in the series and chock-full of side characters who have already found their happily ever after, but the focus doesn't waver from Bev and Iain, along with their close family.

It's refreshing to read about two older leads who have led very different lives with griefs and joys of their own. Bev is happy in her solitary life, though the past carries pain that is brought to the surface just before Iain comes to town with his bereaved son and granddaughter. As Bev takes steps to expand her business and open her heart, Iain and his family begin to settle in a new life and put down roots.

It's touching, heartwarming, and a much needed moment of calm.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book via Rachel's Random Resources; all opinions are my own

Author Bio
After a career in education, Maggie Christensen began writing contemporary women’s fiction portraying mature women facing life-changing situations, and historical fiction set in her native Scotland. Her travels inspire her writing, be it her trips to visit family in Scotland, in Oregon, USA or her home on Queensland’s beautiful Sunshine Coast. Maggie writes of mature heroines coming to terms with changes in their lives and the heroes worthy of them. Maggie has been called the queen of mature age fiction and her writing has been described by one reviewer as like a nice warm cup of tea. It is warm, nourishing, comforting and embracing.
From the small town in Scotland where she grew up, Maggie was lured to Australia by the call to ‘Come and teach in the sun’. Once there, she worked as a primary school teacher, university lecturer and in educational management. Now living with her husband of over thirty years on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, she loves walking on the deserted beach in the early mornings and having coffee by the river on weekends. Her days are spent surrounded by books, either reading or writing them – her idea of heaven!

Social Media Links
https://www.facebook.com/maggiechristensenauthor
https://twitter.com/MaggieChriste33
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8120020.Maggie_Christensen
https://www.instagram.com/maggiechriste33/
https://www.bookbub.com/profile/maggie-christensen
https://maggiechristensenauthor.com/

Blog Tour: The Potter's House by by Hannah Ellis

Sometimes facing up to the past is the only way to create a better future…

Since the tragic death of his father, Lowen Treneary has kept to himself in his pottery studio on the remote island of Bryher.

His quiet life is just the way he likes it.

Until Pippa comes along.

The local café owner plunges his peaceful existence into chaos and brightens his days while she’s at it.

Soon, he has an employee livening up his workplace with her determination to make his studio more profitable… and a growing attraction to Pippa which he’s trying hard to ignore.

Just as he starts to warm to the idea of letting people into his life again, a crisis hits the island, causing old memories to crash to the surface.

Can the events of the present help to heal wounds from the past? And will Pippa still accept Lowen when she learns the secrets he’s been keeping from everyone around him?

Purchase Link - https://mybook.to/ScillyBook4

Review

Four brothers in, and it feels like the Treneary lads are falling faster and faster, their family growing stronger and stronger after the tragedy that took their father's life and shattered their bonds of brotherhood.

Rather than grumpy/sunshine, for once we have grumpy/grumpy, with reclusive potter Lowen enjoying a quiet life until stressed cafe owner Pippa asks him to give her niece Mia a job. Mia definitely brings the sunshine - and the matchmaking - but life has loaded Lowen and Pippa with too much baggage to be ignored. There's careful handling of the weight of childhood expectations, even well into adulthood, along with the realisation that sometimes it was all in your head - and sometimes you need to let it out.

The delicate dance of two jaded people slowly realising they're falling in love plays out against the backdrop of the Scilly Isles, and it's poetic that they must each be reminded of the beauty right in front of them. I loved seeing the rest of the Treneary brothers (and their respective families), not just because  enjoyed their books but because it showcased the slow repair of the relationship between Lowen and his brothers. I can't wait to read Jago's upcoming book!

Dislaimer: I received a copy of this book via Rachel's Random Resources; all opinions are my own

Author Bio

Hannah spent many years working in childcare before deciding she'd like to write books. When she's not busy writing she likes to read, drink tea and eat chocolate. She also enjoys yoga and jogging.

Social Media Links
FB: https://www.facebook.com/authorhannahellis
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BooksEllis
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/authorhannahellis/
 

Blog Tour: He Loves Me, He Loves Me Not by Aimee Brown

Dax Hartley has made flowers his entire life, just like his late father did.

When his dad's old florist’s shop is up for sale, he has to have it. Only problem is, he'd need to sell a kidney to afford it. The reality show Battle of the Blossoms is the perfect opportunity to win the money he needs, but when his childhood crush blows back into his life, distractions risk taking his eyes off the prize. He needs his head and heart to start working together to ensure he doesn't miss the opportunity of a lifetime.

Hollyn Matthews has made some colossal mistakes in life.

When she's dumped just as she's expecting an engagement ring, she knows she's put her heart into the wrong man. Hoping for a second chance at being a grown-up, she moves home to stay with her brother and his best friend Dax, a boy whose memory faded as she ran away from her past. Facing the hurt she left behind means facing some home truths about herself, but there’s one boy who has always loved her, if only she’d take the time to notice him.

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

Review

When reality show meets childhood crush, you get a slow burn friends to lovers that is entertaining to the end. I loved the unusual reality show (no dating shows here!) perfectly matched Dax's passion and talent - and that he was never put down for being a florist. It was the perfect setting for pining (Dax) and love realisations (Hollyn).

Even though the majority of the book has a very condensed timeline, Dax and Hollyn felt not just believable but inevitable thanks to their long history - childhood neighbours and Hollyn being Dax's best friend's sister. The great friends around both of them was a highlight, though I still don't exactly understand what happened to Victoria.

I do wish there had been some acknowledgement that Hollyn hadn't been selfish in losing touch with friends and family, she'd been in an unhealthy and borderline abusive relationship. It might be mean, but I'd have enjoyed a bit more on-page comeuppance for her awful ex. Meanwhile, Dax's FWB Sydney was kinda cool and I'd like to see more of her.

Overall, this was a great read with a swoonworthy hero and a sweetheart heroine, peppered with pop culture references. Best enjoyed with a bit of tv in the background and maybe some popcorn, this book will have you wishing for someone to send you flowers.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book via Netgalley and Rachel's Random Resources, all opinions are my own.

Author Bio

Aimee Brown is the bestselling romantic comedy author of several books including The Lucky Dress. She’s an Oregon native, now living in a tiny town in cold Montana and sets her books in Portland. Previously published by Aria, her new series for Boldwood is full of love and laughter and real-life issues. The first book will be published in January 2023.

Social Media Links
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authoraimeebrown
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AimeeBWrites
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authoraimeeb/
Newsletter Sign Up: https://twitter.com/aimeebwrites  
Bookbub profile: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/aimee-brown

Blog Tour: Let's Not Be Friends by Phoebe MacLeod

Perfect for fans of Jo Watson, Mhairi McFarlane and Portia MacIntosh.

City girl Sophie has married the prince (or landed gentry - close enough), moved to his pile (which is more accurate a description than she’d anticipated) and is set to live happily ever after - until she finds the other half of her perfect life in the stables with the stable girl, and they’re definitely not grooming the horses.

Shocked and appalled, Sophie’s no happier to learn that she’s supposed to 'just get on with it'. After all, according to her mother-in-law, she got the title . . . they even overlooked her family’s ‘new money’ status.

What a lovely family she’s married into! But what’s a girl to do when she’s still in love? Make it work or leg it as fast as she can? Either way, the mother-in-law will not be coming to tea!

What readers are saying about Phoebe MacLeod:

'A perfect love story'

'Humorous, light and romantic!'

'I absolutely loved it. Heart-warming, just perfect!'

 'I loved every minute reading this book, light hearted and fun, finished in a day!'

'I smiled so much'

'What a wonderful book'

'Fantastic'

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

Review

Less of a romance and more of the best revenge being living well, this is a charming book about Sophie putting her life back together after she catches her devoted husband banging the stable girl and his mother admits they only accepted her as a daughter in law for her inheritance. While a HFN is part of her happy ending, it's not the central theme of the plot.

It can be hard to empathise with Sophie due to her privileged upbringing and indulgent parents, but she's genuinely kind and hard working, and at least somewhat aware of her privilege. I also love that she enjoys and is good at her job, and it's central to her reclaiming her life instead of a slog. 

I adored the scenes where she got to tell her ex off; they were super satisfying and more numerous than you'd think. The book also focuses on Sophie's many female friendships and generally women are only portrayed in a negative light when they set themselves up in competition to other women. 

This is a satisfying post-divorce romp with tons of female friendships, low angst, and a heap of fun. 

Disclaimer: I received this book via Rachel's Random Resources; all opinions are my own.

Author Bio 

Phoebe MacLeod is the author of several popular laugh-out-loud romantic comedies. She mainly sets her books in her home county of Kent and her first new title for Boldwood will be published in November 2022. They will also be republishing her existing titles from August this year.

Social Media Links
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PhoebeMacleodAuthor
Twitter: https://twitter.com/macleod_phoebe
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phoebemacleod21/
Newsletter Sign Up: https://bit.ly/PhoebeMacLeodNews
Bookbub profile: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/phoebe-macleod

Blog Tour: The Summer Escape by Hannah Ellis

Single-mother Beth desperately needs a break.

Grieving the loss of her mother, she sets off to the Isles of Scilly with her five-year-old daughter, Ellie.

Their holiday cottage is utterly charming, but it’s meeting Trystan – the owner of the cottage – that makes Beth’s stay so perfect.

When their holiday fling starts to feel like something more, she knows she’s in trouble. Her life is in Plymouth, while he lives in London. Besides, Trystan has already admitted he’s not ready for a family.

Is he prepared to take a leap of faith for Beth and Ellie? And with the odds stacked against them, can they find a way to make their relationship last beyond the lazy days of summer?

Purchase Link - https://mybook.to/ScillyBook3

Review

This sweet romance might be my favourite in the series so far. It has the tight-knit Treneary family we know and love, the gorgeous Isles of Scilly once again giving me travel envy, and a precocious plot moppet named Ellie. Ellie's relationship with Trystan's mum is adorable.

Tissue warning: there is discussion around dementia and the sudden death of a parent. The book starts light but it's not afraid to delve into the emotional stuff and I'm not ashamed to admit I got choked up when Beth and Trystan really got talking. It's leavened with humour, but it's heavy subject matter that can hit quite close to home. I liked that it was realistic and not perfectly clear-cut or cured by the end of the book - though Trystan has some family loose ends that I hope get tied up soon!

I liked both Beth and Trystan - two normal people carrying their own share of hurts, not looking for love but finding it anyway - and making it work through sensible communication and a gentle dose of matchmaking. They're that realistic type of couple who make you believe love is possible.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book via Rachel's Random Resources; all opinions are my own

Author Bio
Hannah Ellis spent many years working in childcare before deciding she'd like to write books. When she's not busy writing she likes to read, drink tea and eat chocolate. She also enjoys yoga and jogging.

Social Media Links
FB: https://www.facebook.com/authorhannahellis
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BooksEllis
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/authorhannahellis/ 

Blog Tour: A Perfect Cornish Sunset by Kelly Tink

With Jo's future changed forever, it's time to embrace a new chapter in her life. One which will take her away from her Cornish home and the ex-boyfriend who's living the life which should have been theirs.

But crossing paths with local surfer Ben before she leaves wasn't part of the plan. Seven years ago Ben's world was turned upside down, but could Jo be the one to make it right for him? When hidden truths threaten, Jo will have to fight for love and the life she's really meant to live. 

Purchase Links
UK - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Perfect-Cornish-Sunset-emotional-uplifting-ebook/dp/B0BHSZFMGZ/
US - https://www.amazon.com/Perfect-Cornish-Sunset-emotional-uplifting-ebook/dp/B0BHSZFMGZ/

Review

It's been quite a while since I read Kelly Tink's debut novel and I'd forgotten what to expect. What I got in this book was a gentle romance with hidden emotional depths, a story about motherhood and second chances. Without giving too much away, the light-hearted vignettes about a nurse falling for a widowed surf instructor and his adorable daughter take a turn for the serious. It's heartfelt and carries the ring of truth in way that might hit too close to home for some.

Nonetheless, I found myself absorbed in the little moments of building relationships and leaning on old friends. I appreciated Jo's journey from aimless dissatisfaction to contentment, even if it was a rocky road to get there.

Give yourself time to enjoy this story - it's worth the read.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book via Rachel's Random Resources; all opinions are my own.

Author Bio
Kelly Tink is a cancer nurse, writer and hopeless romantic, living in Cambridgeshire. She enjoys exploring fun outdoor places with her husband and two sons, especially if it involves eating ice cream by the sea. She’s an avid reader, loves a good film or TV series and drinks lots of tea.

A Perfect Cornish Sunset is Kelly’s second novel. Her debut novel, Meet Me in the Treehouse is available on Amazon. It would mean the world to Kelly if you would consider taking a few moments to write a review. These reviews let new readers know what you thought of the books. Thank you.

Social Media Links
Twitter: @kelly_tink
Instagram: Kelly.tink
Facebook page @Kelly.tink3000

Blog Tour: The Love Arrangement by Ruby Basu

Love was never supposed to be part of the deal…

Independent and free-spirted Annika has no plans to settle down anytime soon… if only her parents felt the same way. But when her father unexpectedly falls ill, she’ll do anything to make things better. Even if it means suddenly blurting out she has a boyfriend.

The only issue is, he doesn’t exist.

Then, by chance, she bumps into handsome entrepreneur Rav, and she can’t believe her luck. He’s single, sworn off relationships and looking for a date to attend work events with. He’s the perfect solution to her troubles. Or is he?

Because there’s just one slight catch – he also happens to be her childhood nemesis.

It was only ever supposed to be a simple, temporary arrangement. Nothing more. Certainly love was never part of the terms and conditions. But Annika’s about to discover that some deals are made to be broken…

Purchase Link - https://books2read.com/u/bPgqOz 

Review

This is a delightful, delicious book with a bit of everything! Fake relationship, enemies to lovers, opposites attract, summer romance... Here are some of the things I loved:

1) Annika's character growth. The story is told entirely from Annika's POV as she organises a mutually-beneficial fake relationship with her childhood nemesis Rav. She is convinced her beloved job co-ordinating projects in developing countries is incompatible with a relationship. I loved that this isn't simply resolved by her deciding that she no longer likes her job, but this book celebrates her drive, passion, and competence.

2) Rav. At first glance, Rav is stiff, organised, and the guy her parents (and everyone else's) would compare her to when growing up. As Annika gets to know him, not only does he unbend, but she realises her own perception of Rav might have been tainted by the whole nemesis thing. Poor guy.

3) The supporting characters, especially Annika's family. They have their own set of problems, not the least being her father's poor health, but there's no doubt they love and support each other, even though Annika has chosen a path so dissimilar to her siblings. Even the family issues seem universal, like constantly being compared to that one success story, or surviving family events as a single adult. There's even something very relateable about Annika feeling not desi enough for Raj's family, while still knowing she'll never be seen as fully British either!

I could keep going, but the better option is for you to buy a copy and enjoy it yourself.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book via Rachel's Random Resources; all opinions are my own

Author Bio

Ruby lives in the beautiful Chilterns with her husband, two children, and the cutest dog in the world. She worked for many years as a lawyer and policy lead in the Civil Service.
As the second of four children, Ruby connected strongly with Little Women’s Jo March and was scribbling down stories from a young age. A huge fan of romantic movies, Star Wars, and Marvel, she loves creating new characters and worlds while waiting for her superpowers to develop.

Social Media Links
Twitter - https://twitter.com/writerrb01
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064086641263
Website - https://rubybasu.com/
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/AuthorRubyBasu/
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@authorrubybasu