A Little Christmas Faith by Kathyn Freeman is a 2017 Choc-lit publication.
Faith’s dream of owning and operating a hotel has come true. It’s ChristmasA Little Christmas Faith by Kathyn Freeman is a 2017 Choc-lit publication.
Faith’s dream of owning and operating a hotel has come true. It’s Christmas and the hotel is now open for business decorated to maximize the holiday spirit… and she’s gotten her first guests- never mind that they are her own parents.
Enter Adam- her first authentic guest- a big lumberjack of a man who wants nothing more than to ignore Christmas…
Unfortunately, he’s come to the wrong place to escape the holidays….
I don’t mind a bit of the sunshine/grumpy trope, just so long as either side is not too heavy handed- and in this case it was mostly balanced, with Adam coming on a bit too strong on occasion, but nothing too over the top.
I had a bit of a wrong impression going into this one, though. I was expecting something a little lighter and cleaner- like Hallmark Movie clean- but there was some heaviness here I wasn’t anticipating, with a smattering of language and sexual content. (My presumption- so my bad on that front)
I also struggled with the messaging concerning Faith’s teenage niece, Chloe. Having a boyfriend is not a measure of one’s self-worth, and a great teaching moment here was missed. I know this is not a story one should over analyze, but it was a niggle that wouldn't stop worrying me.
The subject matter that comes later in the book is quite emotional and because the details came so deep into the story the heaviness overshadowed the sudden reverse back to lighthearted holiday events and perhaps put a damper on the warm and fuzzies I was longing for.
Overall, I wanted to love this one. I think I’ve read this author before, some time back, and enjoyed her work, but this one didn’t work for me as well, unfortunately.
New Year, New Guy by Angela Britnell is a 2020 Choc Lit publication.
Adorable!
Laura gets roped into helping her sister, Polly, stage a surprise reuniNew Year, New Guy by Angela Britnell is a 2020 Choc Lit publication.
Adorable!
Laura gets roped into helping her sister, Polly, stage a surprise reunion between her fiancé, Johnny, and an old friend of his from America, named Hunter McQueen. Laura’s job is to pick Hunter up from the bus and give him a place to stay while he’s visiting.
The pair get off to a bumpy, and comical start when Laura picks Hunter up in the pouring rain and is dismayed that because he is such a large man, he can barely squeeze into her car. The two continue to experience a great deal of awkwardness when they are around each other. Laura and Hunter suffer from the classic ‘opposites attract�� syndrome, especially as Laura is more of an introvert, and is still nursing deep wounds from her disastrous marriage. She doesn’t go out of her way to hide her dismay at having Hunter as a guest.
Hunter, on the other hand, has a secret from his past that Polly is not aware of. As a result, her fiancé may not be as thrilled to see Hunter as she had thought.
Will Polly and Laura send Hunter packing once his past is revealed? Can Laura find the emotional strength to try love again?
This is a lovely story, light and funny, but also addresses a few important issues. The characters are well defined, and I think readers will really like Hunter, and will find his backstory to be very interesting.
I nearly read this book in one sitting. I was highly invested in this couple and the challenges they faced, and the way they each faced adversity, bravely taking charge to right wrongs and make healthy changes in their lives. I love stories that show personal growth, and also love seeing a couple work together to overcome the obstacles that stand in the way of their happiness.
Overall, this is a very enjoyable story of redemption, forgiveness and fresh beginnings!
Hanukkah at the Great Greenwich Ice Creamery by Sharon Ibbotson is a 2019 Choc Lit publication.
A divinely enchanting and whimsical holiday treat!
WorHanukkah at the Great Greenwich Ice Creamery by Sharon Ibbotson is a 2019 Choc Lit publication.
A divinely enchanting and whimsical holiday treat!
World weary Cohen Ford grudgingly weathers the London gloom to run an errand for his mother. His mission takes him to a Greenwich ice creamery where he comes face to face with River De Luca-the daughter of his mother’s best friend, who is definitely off limits. His world tilts on its axis, causing him to pause and take stock of his life.
River’s life couldn’t have been more different from Cohen’s. She is deaf, abandoned by her birth parents, and hasn’t had the best luck in the romance department. How could Cohen, the wealthy man with a hardened heart be the right guy for her?
I loved this story!!
The atmosphere of the story immediately drew me in, and suddenly I could see the dreary London scenery and the charming brightness of the ice creamery by contrast. I knew this story would be good, and I was not disappointed.
The diversity and mingling of different religious celebrations are also a big draw. Cohen’s mother is Jewish, so she celebrates Hanukkah, and her faith has a big role in the story, as does her relationship with her son.
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The challenges the deaf or hearing- impaired face is gently approached, with great respect, and is also an integral part of the romance.
The book is short, so things progress rapidly, but the relationships are fleshed out, and character growth, along with true love, develops beautifully. The story has its moments of poignancy, and can be emotive, but the tone has a fantastical quality to it, as well, making it feel positively magical!
Overall, this is simply a delightful story from start to finish!!
Daisy’s Christmas Gift Shop by Hannah Pearl is a 2019 Choc Lit/Ruby Fiction publication.
Heartwarming Christmas Intrigue!!
Daisy’s special gift shop iDaisy’s Christmas Gift Shop by Hannah Pearl is a 2019 Choc Lit/Ruby Fiction publication.
Heartwarming Christmas Intrigue!!
Daisy’s special gift shop is the place to go for that intimate and personal gift for the special person in your life. But while Daisy is busy making everyone else’s romantic dreams come true, her own love life is non-existent. To make matters worse, she hasn’t fully gotten over her crush on her brother Ben’s best friend, Eli. However, she and Eli can’t seem to be in the same room together without constantly bickering.
Because Eli and Ben’s work is filled with secrecy and intrigue, they can be a little demeaning to Daisy about her shop. But things take a frightening and sinister turn, when Ben, who is on the spectrum, gets tired of hearing Daisy and Eli argue and runs away.
While searching for Ben they begin to think Ben may be in danger- in more ways than one! Can Eli and Daisy put their differences behind them to rescue Ben?
Holiday novels are plentiful, all full of heartwarming stories and good cheer. But a holiday romance with action and adventure?
Yes, please!!
The author puts a unique spin on holiday romance stories- and that’s a good thing! I enjoyed the wicked banter between Daisy and Eli and the mad cap adventure they embark on. Ben, who apparently suffers from autism or Asperger’s, gets a prominent feature in the book, when he makes a very unusual connection. The plot has a curious mix of offbeat characters, situations, and unconventional love stories, as well as the traditional holiday sentiments. As a result, I found the book to be highly entertaining and one of the most original holiday romance books I’ve read so far this year!
Happy Christmas Eve by Jackie Ladbury is a 2019 Ruby Fiction publication.
A warm, festive holiday romance!
Eve has been in love with Lucien Malikov fo Happy Christmas Eve by Jackie Ladbury is a 2019 Ruby Fiction publication.
A warm, festive holiday romance!
Eve has been in love with Lucien Malikov for ages. But her feelings are unrequited as the popular rock star strings Eve along while surrounding himself with fans and other women. But, while they are both home for the holidays, Eve is hoping for a chance to make Lucien see they belong together. But when she reconnects with Theo Wright, an old childhood friend, Eve begins to wonder if she’ been wasting her time with Lucien.
If you are looking for a story to get you into the holiday spirit, this one should do the trick. All the trimmings you need for a delightful holiday story are here! Although this is a short story, there is plenty of character growth, as Eve’s holiday wishes take an eye-opening turn. People aren’t always what they seem, and perhaps, Eve isn’t the only suffering from unrequited love!
The characterizations are well-done, evoking the right emotional responses. Thankfully, Eve has an awakening of sorts, gaining confidence, self-worth, a new passion and at long last- true love!! The romance is sweet and charming, and the holiday cheer practically leaps off the pages. You’ll want to grab a plate of sugar cookies, a nice hot cup of cocoa and curl up by the fire with this lovely feel good story that will leave you feeling all warm and fuzzy!!
Christmas in Little Penhaven by Angela Britnell is a 2019 Choc Lit publication.
Both Poignant and Festive- A real holiday treat!!
I Absolutely loved “Christmas in Little Penhaven by Angela Britnell is a 2019 Choc Lit publication.
Both Poignant and Festive- A real holiday treat!!
I Absolutely loved “One Summer in Little Penhaven”, so of course, I was very excited to read this follow up Christmas novella!!
A shocking event has left Hal Muir feeling unsure of everything in his life. He sells his part of a lucrative and mega-popular gym, and to avoid constant hovering from his family, decides a change of scenery is in order.
Claiming he’s now an aspiring author, looking for a quiet place to concentrate on his writing, Hal calls on his cousin Sam, who lives in the small Cornish village of Little Penhaven with her husband, Caden, asking if he can come for a visit.
Upon arrival, Hal meets Jane Solomon, who really is an aspiring author. As he finds himself caught up in all the holiday preparations in the village, he learns of the sacrifices Jane has made for her family and begins to realize he must put his own demons to rest before he can move forward with his life in a meaningful way. For starters, he is going to have to tell Jane his most painful secrets.
Meanwhile, Jane is coping with an unwanted suitor and her troubled brother, while falling hopelessly in love with Hal, despite knowing his stay in Little Penhaven will soon come to an end.
The beauty of the story is in seeing two people from completely different backgrounds, with virtually nothing in common, help each other come to terms with their personal problems, and bring out parts of themselves they had buried underneath their burdens.
Britnell’s stories have real depth, as the characters grapple with genuine problems, while growing into stronger and better people as the story progresses. The holiday atmosphere and British traditions, adds that special touch to this wonderful romance. I must now give into my extreme curiosity and try a mincemeat pie!!
Overall, this a touching novella, packed with emotion and holiday passion!...more
Christmas on the Isle of Skye by Kirsty Ferry is a 2019 Choc Lit publication.
Some happy endings take longer than others- and some may need a little hChristmas on the Isle of Skye by Kirsty Ferry is a 2019 Choc Lit publication.
Some happy endings take longer than others- and some may need a little holiday magic…
Those following this series will remember Zac from Spring at Taigh Fallon.
What has Zac been up to? He’s one of the good guys, but he can be a little slow up on the uptake sometimes. Zac’s heart is settled on the Isle of Skye, but his lovely assistant, Ivy McFarlane, longs to spread her wings. Although he will miss her, Zac doesn’t want to hold her back. He just never realized he would miss her THIS much!!
Unfortunately, Ivy fervently hoped Zac would finally confess his feelings went beyond the professional realm. But he only wishes her well in her new adventures, so Ivy forges ahead to pursue her dreams. Now living in magical Glastonbury, Ivy’s career plans haven’t worked out the way she had hoped they would. She’s broke, frustrated, and most of all broken hearted.
But, when Zac Fallon shows up for an unexpected visit, Ivy is over the moon! However, a series of misunderstandings and preconceived notions threaten to prevent the pair from confessing their true feelings for each other. Will one of them speak up before it’s too late?
I loved this holiday themed story which incorporates a few magical elements and celebrations besides the traditional Christmas themes. The story is so sweet and tender, with each person discovering that no matter where they land, as long as they have each other, they will have happiness.
Overall, this is a delightfully warm, light, and whimsical holiday love story!
Jessie’s Little Bookshop by the Sea by Kirsty Ferry is a 2019 Choc Lit publication.
A darling story full of heart and hope!
Jessie's life is books- liJessie’s Little Bookshop by the Sea by Kirsty Ferry is a 2019 Choc Lit publication.
A darling story full of heart and hope!
Jessie's life is books- literally. She reads books and sells them in her little bookshop in Staithes, Yorkshire. But, Jessie is thrown for a loop when Miles Fareham and his son Elijah arrive to stay at the holiday apartment above the shop.
First, she had an awkward run in with the father and son before they arrived at the shop, and second, Jessie is not too keen on children. However, she and Michael attempt to make the best of the situation. Before long Jessie finds herself forming an attachment to the lonely, guilt -ridden single father, and utterly charmed by his adorable son. But can Michael let go of his painful past to make a fresh start for himself and Elijah.
This is another charming story in the Tempest Sisters series. (All the books in the series can easily be read as standalones.)
While there is an occasional melancholy tone to the story, the clouds slowly lift, and Jessie learns to relax around Elijah and takes great strides toward emotional maturity. Michael is carrying around a lot of heavy baggage and his story is a little bittersweet. Elijah seemed a step ahead of his father sometimes, able to see what the adults couldn’t. The encouragement Michael and Jessie give Elijah to enjoy reading is also a nice touch! The connection and chemistry between Jessie and Michael give them both a chance at a fuller, more rewarding life- if only they have the courage to grab it!
Kirsty Ferry has become a favorite author of mine over this past year, especially. Her stories are always right up my alley, whether they are time slip romances or stories like this one that warms the heart and nourishes the soul. This is another sweet and touching story full of hope, love, and…. Books!!
Make It Up to You by Lucy Keeling is a 2019 Choc Lit publication.
A thoroughly modern romance!
Sophie takes her online make-up tutorials seriously. HowMake It Up to You by Lucy Keeling is a 2019 Choc Lit publication.
A thoroughly modern romance!
Sophie takes her online make-up tutorials seriously. However, her viewer-ship numbers, hits and follows have hit a plateau. She needs to do something to freshen up her videos before her enterprise spirals downward.
When her friend, Pam, suggests she work with her brother, Marcus, to create a garden backdrop for her videos, Sophie is reluctant. But Marcus also needs a little exposure for his business, so it seems like a win-win situation. What could possibly go wrong?
Well, for starters, the two mix like oil and water. Despite that, they are deeply attracted to each other. Then Marcus inadvertently finds himself on camera making a big impression on Sophie’s audience, stealing a little bit of her thunder. This is NOT what Sophie had in mind to boost her numbers!!
As anyone who has tried their hand at making a little profit from YouTube videos or from blogging can attest to, it’s not all fun and games. Just like anything else, to make it profitable, one must put some work into it. Sophie has a hard time getting people to take her work seriously, though. Marcus is not aware of how much effort Sophie puts into her tutorials and how fragile her occupation can be.
After a bit of a rocky start, the two eventually wind up working well together… in more ways than one. However, Sophie isn’t sure if she wants Marcus to be a part of her personal life AND her professional life, as well.
This is a fun madcap romantic comedy with a timely premise. The characterizations are well drawn, if a bit hyper and shallow at times. However, that leaves plenty of room for character growth. The momentum is a little uneven, lagging in some places and a bit too frenetic in others. It is also mildly fluffy, without a lot of serious depth- which is not a criticism, just an observation- since we all need a break from heavy reading at times.
However, the author did a great job of capturing this time frame in a young adult’s life, the friendships they have, the parental expectations and pressures, as well the stress of carving out one’s own niche in a highly competitive and ever evolving climate. The chemistry between Sophie and Marcus is stormy, but hot and steamy. The story is hilarious at times and is definitely a mood enhancer!
Overall, this is a light, sexy romp fans of contemporary romance and Rom-Coms will love! 3.5 rounded up...more
Reaching for a Star by Kathryn Freeman is a 2019 Choc Lit publication.
Captivating and delightful!!
Michael Tennant, a fabulously popular singer, who aReaching for a Star by Kathryn Freeman is a 2019 Choc Lit publication.
Captivating and delightful!!
Michael Tennant, a fabulously popular singer, who also happens to be pretty easy on the eyes, is about to set off on a world tour. To promote the tour, he’s been roped into participating in a reality television show, in which a professional musician is teamed with an amateur. His job will be to teach his partner how to sing. He really, really doesn’t want to do the show in the first place, but once he hears Jessie sing...Oy!
Jessie Simmons has hoped for passion and excitement in her life and relationships. When she is nudged into auditioning for a reality show, she is floored when she finds herself partnered with her fantasy crush, Michael Tennant!!! What could be more exciting than that?
However, the new partnership hits a sour note when it turns out Michael’s private persona is a far cry from his public one.
This is such a great set-up! Michael is guarded and sheltered, his life structured by his 'ice queen' personal assistant. Jessie comes along and shakes things up, but despite their feelings, the two come from completely different worlds, making it nearly impossible to make the budding romance work in the long term.
The characterizations are spot-on and the dialogue is crisp and sharp. The author did a great job of imagining all the various challenges a couple in this unique situation might face and made it all come life in a light and easy atmosphere. Michael is so arrogant at times- or was it really awkwardness? He is forever saying the wrong thing- but his loneliness is palpable. I just wanted to hug him. Jessie is a scene stealer, though, and I loved her spunk and the way she refused to be intimidated... Especially by the ice queen!
This is a wonderful, well-rounded romance, balancing a bit of mature angst with humor, family, friendship and a truly delightful HEA!!...more
A Paris Fairy Tale by Marie Laval is a 2019 Choc Lit publication.
Paris-
The most romantic city in the world!
Or is it?
For Aurora, Paris harbors no A Paris Fairy Tale by Marie Laval is a 2019 Choc Lit publication.
Paris-
The most romantic city in the world!
Or is it?
For Aurora, Paris harbors no “Prince Charming”, no “Happy ever after”, or fairy tales. She has no confidence in her self-image, in part, due to the scars left behind from a tragic car accident that claimed the life of her parents, when she was a child.
So, no, Aurora hasn’t traveled to France for romantic reasons. As a Paleographer, Aurora is in Paris in a professional capacity, having been hired to authenticate an ancient manuscript. However, she immediately runs afoul of Cédric Castel, a journalist with an adventurous streak. Cédric is convinced Aurora is in on a sinister scheme with her employers, who have hired a group of Russian thugs as guards. No, that’s not suspicious!
But as Cédric begins to shadow her, he realizes she is sincere and very good at her job- which could put her in grave danger. Having gotten off on the wrong foot, the couple is surprised by the level of attraction they share and the chemistry that bounces off them like fire and ice.
Meanwhile, Aurora and Cédric must also cope with various personal issues, while they work to uncover a stunning conspiracy.
I enjoyed every moment of this book! The premise is original and Aurora’s career choice is interesting for starters.
The story moves at a brisk pace, but not at the expense of the characters or plot development. The characterizations are marvelous, as is the dialogue. The banter between Aurora and Cédric is truly delightful and amusing, but at times poignant. There is plenty of mystery and adventure to go along with the romance and was very suspenseful at times.
Overall, this is a well- rounded story, emotive, suspenseful, but packed with plenty of fairy tale charm. Fans of contemporary romance and romantic suspense will especially enjoy this one, but there is a little something in this one for everyone.
Meet Me at the Café by Sue McDonagh is a 2019 Choc Lit publication.
What a cute story!
This is a mild and easy contemporary romance with an adorable ‘oMeet Me at the Café by Sue McDonagh is a 2019 Choc Lit publication.
What a cute story!
This is a mild and easy contemporary romance with an adorable ‘opposites attract’ theme. Jo is a single mom who works at the art café, and Ed, is a bike mechanic who has gained a little notoriety as a local Lothario. Jo and Ed get off to a rough start, but the chemistry between them in undeniable.
Although Jo has been warned about Ed from some well-meaning residents, when she sees Ed with her son, Liam and begins to spend a little more time with him, she discovers there is more depth to him than his playboy reputation suggests.
This is a sweet romance featuring two characters with painful secrets, which prevents them from taking a chance on love. Liam is a scene stealer on occasion, but Ed is also a truly wonderful character. I loved his occupation, which shows that talent, a certain skill set, and hard work can be just as profitable and rewarding as white- collar occupations.
Jo’s backstory is heart wrenching, making her a sympathetic character, but also one who is supportive and can think for herself- something we should all practice.
The light tone is slightly deceptive, as there are a couple of embedded moral reminders and the added emotional depth gives the story a nice balance without becoming too sappy.
With the summer months just ahead, this would be a great book to carry with you on vacation, to relax with by the pool or on the beach- or like me- indoors under the air conditioner!!
Overall, this is a gentle and charming story anyone can enjoy!
Marked Lord by Sharon Ibbotson is a 2019 Choc lit publication.
Love dark, brooding and scarred heroes? Tired of Regency period romance? Enjoy a littleMarked Lord by Sharon Ibbotson is a 2019 Choc lit publication.
Love dark, brooding and scarred heroes? Tired of Regency period romance? Enjoy a little intrigue and mystery with your romance? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then this book might just be in your wheelhouse.
As Britain officially declares war on France, Sophy De Browarec, a spy for the British, finds herself in serious trouble. Widowed, with nowhere to hide, Sophy can only think of one place she can seek refuge.
After a lengthy absence, Sophy returns to Cornwall, the home she was raised in, and to the only living person she has a connection with- Fitzwilliam ‘Fitz’ Ravensbourne.
Fitz was badly burned in his youth, leaving him permanently disfigured. His father was set to marry Sophy’s mother, but she passed away before the wedding could take place, leaving Sophy orphaned.
Fitz’s father provided for Sophy, but now, after his father’s death, Fitz controls the estate. The last thing the reclusive Fitz needs is a visit from Sophy. Why has she suddenly returned to Cornwall after having heard nothing from her in ages?
This story is quite absorbing, with mysteries and secrets abounding, along with a few interesting twists. The characters are well drawn, and developed, and the dialogue is authentic and realistic. I loved the time frame for this book. Everyone knows about my continual complaint about the oversaturation of Regency period historical romance, so the Georgian period setting amid the Napoleonic War is a welcome change of pace.
But it is the slightly forbidden romantic development, along with Fitz’s embittered and scarred facial countenance and his brooding demeanor is what really drew me in and gave the story a darker tone than your typical historical romance. The story begins on a suspenseful note, then settles into a slower pace, creating a mild Gothic tone at times, then picks up speed again, adding a bit of adventure and suspense into the mix.
The book is not very long, so there is a lot packed into a small space, but the character development never suffered, and the story was not at all rushed. This is an impressive debut, and I will be keeping my eye on this promising new author! 4 stars ...more
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