Book Extract: Hidden in the Mists by Christina Courtenay
I am pleased to be welcoming Christina Courtenay to Novel Kicks today. She’s here with the blog tour for her novel, Hidden In The Mists.
A love forged in fire lives on through the ages.
She stared at the man again. Was he real? Her mind returned to the ghostly figure by the shore and to her strange dream. No, he was not a figment of her imagination.
Skye Logan has been struggling to run her remote farm on Scotland’s west coast alone ever since her marriage fell apart. When a handsome stranger turns up looking for work, it seems that her wish for help has been granted.
Rafe Carlisle is searching for peace and somewhere he can forget about the last few years. But echoes of the distant past won’t leave Skye and Rafe alone, and they begin to experience vivid dreams which appear to be linked to the Viking jewellery they each wear.
It seems that the ghosts of the past have secrets . . . and they have something that they want Skye and Rafe to know.
*****
Christina has shared an extract with us today. Enjoy!
*****beginning of extract*****
Skye Logan gripped her mug of tea tightly with both hands, trying to draw the warmth into her very bones, but it wasn’t working. She stared out towards the island of Jura, which could be glimpsed in the distance across the sea, a beautiful sight she’d never tire of looking at. The water between there and the mainland was calm today, below a layer of morning mist that also swathed most of the island. It crept up towards the cottage, its soft swirls stirring restlessly on an unseen breeze. Indoors, here in her cosy kitchen, she was safe and warm, but the chill was lodged deep inside her and not even the wood-burning Rayburn could thaw her out. She was starting to wonder if anything ever would.
It was barely light, but she’d been unable to sleep. She had always been an early riser, yet waking up pre-dawn was taking things a step too far. No point tossing and turning, though, not when she had so many chores always waiting for her attention. If she could just force down a bowl of porridge, she could get a head start.
She was about to turn away from the window when something caught her eye. A shadow came gliding into the little bay that belonged to her property, a rowing boat of some sort, although she couldn’t quite make it out. A shiver of unease slithered down her spine, making the hairs at the back of her neck stand on end.
‘Who on earth . . . ?’
by 
A Moment With… Liz Taylorson (and Harry Brand.)
I am very happy to be welcoming Liz Taylorson to Novel Kicks. She’s here with the blog tour for her novel, Summer Showers at Elder Fell Farm.
A simple holiday just got complicated …
Single mum Amy has been struggling since her mother’s death and now her son, Harry, has been accused of bullying schoolmate Oliver — giving Amy’s dictatorial ex-husband yet another reason to criticise her parenting.
All Amy wants is the chance to spend time with her son. Where better to escape all her troubles than camping at the remote but beautiful Lake District farm where she spent idyllic summers with her mother when she was a little girl?
Her tranquil escape seems doomed when Oliver, and his widowed dad, Matt, turn up on the neighbouring pitch — but at Elder Fell Farm, unlikely friendships can be forged. Are Matt and Amy ready to fall in love again? And will their boys bring them together – or drive them apart?
*****
To celebrate the release of Summer Showers at Elder Fell Farm, Harry, the heroine’s son, having been asked to write a book review for school, has written about this novel. Over to you, Harry.
My Book Review of ‘Summer Showers at Elder Fell Farm’
By Harry Brand, aged 8 and 2 months.
I chose this book to write about because Summer Showers at Elder Fell Farm is all about me and my best friend, Oliver and what happened when we went on our summer holidays. Okay, it’s a bit about my mam, Amy, and Ollie’s dad, Matt, because they were there too, but all they did was, like, snogging and stuff which is gross, so mainly I’m going to write about the other things in the book.
My favourite character in the book is Harry, aka me! He does lots of cool stuff in the book, he finds a den and plays in the beck quite a lot with his best friend Oliver, but he isn’t allowed to go skinny dipping, which is the same thing as swimming in the nuddy, which means with NO CLOTHES ON. But Mam wouldn’t let me … I mean, him. The boys also make up an awesome game called ‘bonky, bonky’ and an air bed got burst, but it definitely wasn’t Harry that burst it, honestly.
by A Moment With… Carla Luna
I am very pleased to be welcoming Carla Luna to Novel Kicks. She’s here with the blog tour for her novel, Field Rules.
What happens in the field, stays in the field. Or does it?
After the disastrous way her first archaeological dig ended, graduate student Olivia Sanchez abandoned her dreams of working in the field. Now, thanks to a last-minute teaching opportunity in Cyprus, she’ll get another chance to explore ancient history firsthand. This time, failure isn’t an option.
But digging up the past takes on a whole new meaning when she’s forced to team up with her ex, shovel bum Rick Langston.
For years, Rick has proven his archaeological skills all over the Mediterranean. But with no graduate degree—and a habit of attracting trouble—his reputation could use a little rehab. All he has to do is play by the rules while he’s in Cyprus and he’ll secure a coveted recommendation for his next job. Until Olivia resurfaces like a cursed relic from the past.
Given that their last fling nearly led to their academic ruin, Olivia and Rick can’t afford to repeat their past mistakes. But as they work together under the scorching Mediterranean sun, the heat between them proves impossible to ignore.
*****
To talk about the story behind her novel, Field Rules, it’s over to Carla Luna…
Of all the books I’ve written, Field Rules might be the one closest to my heart. That’s because many of the adventures and mishaps experienced by Olivia Sanchez—the protagonist of Field Rules—actually happened to me.
By the time I was in my second year at the University of Victoria (in Canada), I’d already decided I wanted to be an archaeologist. For years, I’d been fascinated with ancient history, particularly the Greeks and the Egyptians. Though I’d already been on one dig, it had been close to home, at a site in Southern California. For my next project, I wanted something outside of my comfort zone. After my parents generously offered to pay for my plane fare, I signed up for a six-week archaeological field school on the island of Cyprus, located in the Eastern Mediterranean.
by Novel Kicks Writing Room: Character Pen Pals.
I love the art of letter writing and have a couple of pen friends myself. It got me thinking about what you reveal about yourself in a letter that you wouldn’t if you met in real life.
Take a character from one of your WIPs. If you’re currently not working on anything, pick a character from a favourite novel.
Write a quick letter to this character. Tell them about yourself – your likes, dislikes, hobbies, fears and dreams. Ask them questions. You get the picture.
Then reply back as your character. Include responses to the information you gave them, as well as answers to the questions you asked them, like you would a pen pal.
Include revealing details about them. Get into the mindset of your character. What do they want you to write about them?
by Book Review: The Little Theatre on Halfpenny Lane by Clodagh Murphy
It is my pleasure to welcome Clodagh Murphy to Novel Kicks. She’s here with the blog tour for her novel, The Little Theatre on Halfpenny Lane.
Aoife and her sisters know exactly what to do when they inherit their Great-aunt Detta’s theatre on Halfpenny Lane:
- Restore the dilapidated building to its former glory.
- Perform together on its stage to packed houses and rapturous applause.
- Live happily ever after.
But they didn’t count on Detta leaving a share in the theatre to her godson, Jonathan. Now they’ll have to persuade him to buy into their vision of stardust and magic – or find the money to buy him out.
As they fight to save the theatre, Aoife also battles her growing feelings for Jonathan. Because she can’t let herself fall for the man who’s about to bring the curtain down on their dreams.
*****
Aoife, Mimi and Sive have always had the impression that they’d inherit their Great-Aunt Detta’s theatre on Halfpenny Lane. However, they had not counted on Jonathan, Detta’s Godson inheriting a share.
Now, in order to save their beloved theatre and restore it to its former glory, they either have to convince Jonathan to remain a willing investor or buy him out.
Can they save their theatre or will they lose their dream?
This book was my introduction to Clodagh Murphy and I was excited to be invited onto the blog tour for the Little Theatre on Halfpenny Lane.
I read this novel in one sitting. I couldn’t stop reading. I instantly fell in love with these characters and the setting. I could picture The Halfpenny Theatre and the charm it holds. I could see the stage, the rows of chairs and the overall atmosphere. I wanted it saved.
The plot moves well and Clodagh Murphy’s writing style makes it easy to fall into this novel and get invested in the story. Will they or won’t they save the theatre?
by Book Review: The Split by Amanda Brookfield
I am pleased to be welcoming Amanda Brookfield to Novel Kicks. She’s here with the blog tour for her novel, The Split.
Two decades on from a passionate courtship and marriage, Lucas and Esther are getting divorced.
For Esther, it’s proving hard not to feel bitter watching Lucas enjoying his successful career, not to mention the attentions of his gorgeous, intelligent, and predictably younger lover. She meanwhile is struggling to forge a new life for herself, navigating the pitfalls of modern dating, while trying not to despair at the cost of living as a single woman of a certain age.
Then Lucas faces a shattering accusation at the same time as their children Dylan and Lily, start to implode. When Dylan runs away, and as his father fights to save his reputation, Lucas and Esther find themselves back in each other’s lives, whether they like it or not.
Has too much water passed under the bridge, or will long-forgotten loyalties and feelings bring the family back together, just when they need each other the most?
*****
After a twenty year marriage, Esther and Lucas are divorced. They, and the two children they share, now have to adjust to the new normal.
Esther is finding it difficult to witness her ex-husband’s new life. With a great job and a fiancée, he’s flying high. She knows that she has to find her new place in the world.
However, when Lucas’s life is derailed and their son, Dylan runs away, Lucas and Esther have to communicate, whether they want to or not.
Having previously not read any of Amanda Brookfield’s previous books, I didn’t know what type of novel this was going to be.
The Spilt is a slow burner and it did take me a while to get into it. To begin with, I wasn’t sure I was going to like it. I was very pleased I persevered. What I found was that this was a very interesting and detailed look into relationships between ordinary people. There are many twists and turns. Sometimes I loved the characters, other times I disliked their behaviour but as I progressed through the book, I became invested in them. Oh, and I want to adopt the cat.
by Novel Kicks Fiction Friday: First Meeting
It’s Friday which means it’s time to start writing some fiction.
Fiction Friday is our weekly writing flash fiction prompt.
The aim is to write for a minimum of five minutes and then keep going for as long as you can.
Don’t edit, just write. Once you’re done, you’re welcome to share in the comments but there’s no obligation.
*****
Today’s Prompt: First Meeting.
Your character is getting married but they have never met the person they are going to marry.
They don’t meet this person until they reach the church. Oh and there are cameras filming the whole thing.
What happens?
by
I am very excited to be welcoming Judy Leigh back to Novel Kicks. She’s here with the blog tour for her novel, The Highland Hens.
In the imposing Glen Carrick House overlooking Scotland’s famous Loch Ness, lives eighty-eight-year-old Mimi McKinlay, cared for by her three adult sons. Hamish has inherited his mother’s musical talents, Fin is the responsible brother, and Angus has the complicated and brooding personality to match his dashing good looks.
But what all the brothers share is a concern that their beloved mother is living in her memories of her days on stage, while letting her present days pass her by.
Jess Oliver is at a turning point. Amicably divorced after years of being married, this trip to the Highlands is a first taste of independence. It isn’t long before the beauty and hospitality of Scotland captures her heart.
When Mimi and Jess’s paths cross, a friendship is formed that will change both women’s lives. And as together they find ways to look forward instead of to the past, long forgotten dreams are within reach, and every new day is fresh with possibilities.
Take a trip to the Highlands with Judy Leigh for an unforgettable story of glorious pasts and fabulous futures, of love, friendship, family and fun.
*****
Jess has come to Scotland for a holiday and has instantly fallen in love. When circumstances mean she can’t immediately return to her home, she replies to an ad for a companion to an elderly lady. She has a few months before she can return home. Why not?
It’s here she meets Mimi. As the women become close, Jess starts to see life in a new way and when she meets Mimi’s three sons, maybe love won’t be too far behind?
I am a big fan of Judy Leigh’s novels having previously read and enjoyed A Year of Mr Maybes and Lil’s Bus trip. Therefore, I was excited to be invited onto the blog tour for her latest novel, The Highland Hens.
I visited Scotland a few times as a child (I’d really love to go back,) so I adored the setting for this novel. I could picture myself standing at Mimi’s window looking out at the beautiful scenery of Loch Ness.
It’s not hard to fall in love with the ladies in this novel.
by Book Review: The Lodger by Valerie Keogh
I am pleased to be welcoming Valerie Keogh to Novel Kicks. She’s here with the blog tour for her novel, The Lodger.
She’s in your home…
Leigh Simons can’t say for sure what made her do it. A moment of madness, perhaps, but when the young, loud and gorgeous waitress at her favorite coffee shop reveals she is homeless, Leigh offers her the empty room in her house.
In your head…
Gina is the perfect lodger; Leigh, lonely and frustrated with her life, becomes infatuated with the woman – her boldness, her zeal. If only Leigh could be more like Gina…
And missing without trace.
So when Leigh returns from a work trip she’s shocked to find Gina missing. Where could the young woman have gone…and why?
Leigh fears that something terrible has happened – why else would Gina leave her?
But as she sets out to find her missing lodger, what Leigh discovers changes everything she knows about Gina….and her own life, too.
*****
When Leigh discovers that a waitress in her favourite coffee shop is becoming homeless, she offers up her spare room, a decision she instantly regrets.
However, when Leigh gets back from a week away, Gina has gone. Vanished without a trace.
This was my introduction to Valerie Keogh’s novels and the idea for this book really intrigued me so I was excited to get started.
It’s going to be quite hard to talk about this book without giving away spoilers but I’m going to try. Here goes…
Leigh is an interesting character. I got the feeling that she held a lot of herself back, being the person her boyfriend, Matt wanted her to be.
She is a lot braver than she thinks, especially when she eventually decides to speak up against a well liked male colleague. She is someone to admire in that respect.
by Novel Kicks Writing Room: Short Story Pick and Mix
Today, our writing exercise will be a short story of between 1000 – 1500 words.
Write a short story using the prompts below. At random, pick one element from each section.
Then combine your four answers and create your characters, background etc.
Pick one each from the following:
- Police, Circus, Shop.
- Town, Country, Boat.
- Maggie, Brian, Jamie.
- Letter, Article, Doorbell.
I’d love to see what you come up with. If you feel comfortable enough to do so, post your story in the comments below.
by Book Review: Such a Good Mother by Helen Monks Takhar
Some things are too perfect to be true…
Rose O’Connell aspires to be the perfect mother.
And when she receives an unexpected invitation into The Circle, an elite clique of beautiful, wealthy and connected mums at her son’s exclusive school, it seems her dreams are about to come true. Every mother would kill for an invitation, and once she joins, Rose’s social status soars.
But what is each woman hiding beneath her immaculate exterior?
Why did a previous member take their own life?
And why have they singled out unassuming Rose to take her place?
Rose is about to find out that darkness lies at the heart of The Circle. And it’s far too late to run…
*****
Rose is determined to be the perfect mother for her son, Charlie.
When she gets invited into the Circle, the exclusive clique at her son’s new school, it seems like she is on her way. However, nothing is as it seems.
I had not read Helen’s previous novel, That Woman, so I didn’t fully know what to expect.
I pretty much devoured this novel, reading it in one sitting. You are immediately thrown into the action and mystery surrounding The Woolf School and the women running it.
Rose is certainly a character you have a lot of sympathy for when you first meet her. She is wanting to do what is best for her son, not having had the best childhood herself. I think a lot of people will relate to that. Having said that, not all of her behaviour is great. I did occasionally loose empathy with her. She’s a complicated and complex character.
by Book Review: The Other Girlfriend by Alex Stone
I am pleased to be welcoming Alex Stone to Novel Kicks. She’s here with the blog tour for her novel, The Other Girlfriend.
She loves him…
Lizzie Green once loved Tom Murphy with a passion that bordered on obsession. All she wanted was his love to be returned. Then one night something terrible happened and Tom left Lizzie broken hearted. She swore she would never let him hurt her again….
She loves him not.
Now, ten years later, Tom turns up on Lizzie’s doorstep still as charming as ever. Lizzie knows he still has the power to break her heart and destroy her life again. But Lizzie can’t say no to him….
Can she?
*****
Lizzie had always loved Tom to the point where he became an obsession, but when a weekend away ends in tragedy, Tom disappears from her life, leaving her to deal with what’s broken.
It’s ten years later and he’s back. Is this their chance to be together? Does Tom really mean it when he says he loves her? She’s determined to believe him.
I was a big fan of Alex Stone’s last novel, The Perfect Daughter, so I couldn’t wait to start reading this novel.
I love the fact that it’s set in Bournemouth. I know that town and so I could picture all the places mentioned. The atmosphere and setting is described so well. I could see every scene. I would love this to be adapted into a tv series.
From page one, I was well and truly hooked and I read it in one day. I needed to know what happened and what would become of Lizzie.
by Book Review: So Happy For You by Celia Laskey
Robin and Ellie have been best friends since childhood.
They’ve been through everything together, from Robin coming out to the death of Ellie’s dad. But when Ellie asks Robin to be her maid of honour, Robin is reluctant.
It’s not that Robin isn’t happy for Ellie, she just hates everything about weddings and marriage – plus the guy Ellie’s engaged to. There’s also the matter of the crazy (not to mention dangerous) wedding rituals that couples are resorting to in the hope of securing a lifetime of happiness.
Despite her misgivings, Robin finally says yes. But as the wedding day approaches, she gets the feeling that everyone in the bridal party is out to get her. And it seems Ellie is willing to do anything for the perfect day. After all, marriage is about sacrifice…
*****
Robin and Ellie have been friends since school. However, in a world where there is an increasing pressure to get married, Robin is relucent when Ellie asks her to be maid of honour.
As the day approaches, Robin can’t help but feel paranoid. After all, Ellie will do anything for a perfect day.
They say this book is a cross between Black Mirror and Bridesmaids and they weren’t wrong. It’s completely bonkers, in a good way.
So Happy For You is set in the future where the government encourages marriage, even offering tax breaks to married couples. This is due to the birth rate falling. There’s now lots of apps and websites and brides are trying all sorts of rituals to bring good luck.
This brought a feeling of dystopia to the novel. Very Handmaids Tale/Black Mirror.
by Book Review: Rough Diamonds by Gillian Godden
We are pleased to be welcoming Gillian Godden to Novel Kicks. She’s here with the blog tour for her latest novel, Rough Diamonds.
Flawed, tough, unbreakable….
In the aftermath of her husband’s shocking murder, Patsy Diamond wants answers. Who was Nick really? Where is all his money? And who killed the man she once loved? Patsy knows exactly who to go to first – Nick’s pregnant mistress, Natasha.
Natasha might seem young and innocent, but Patsy’s certain the girl is hiding something. And the only way to find out what is to keep Natasha close and make her part of the Diamond family.
With the two women forming an unlikely bond, they begin to dig deeper into Nick’s secret life and discover things that shock…and terrify them.
Because Nick Diamond played a deadly game and if the women in his life want payback, then they are going to have to follow his rules – or break them and make their own.
But the strongest diamonds are created under pressure and these women are no exception…
*****
Patsy always knew that there was a side to her husband she didn’t know. When he’s murdered and his associates start to close in, she finds herself teaming up with the most unlikely of people.. her husband’s mistress.
There is action right from page one and it didn’t take me long to get pulled into the story.
It’s mostly made up of female characters which was a great perspective to have, especially when a lot of books in this genre focus on the men.
Patsy is a strong character but she soon finds herself out of her depth. It was interesting to see how she dealt with situations especially when you factor in children.
by Book Review: The Last Party by Clare Mackintosh
On New Year’s Eve, Rhys Lloyd has a house full of guests.
His lakeside holiday homes are a success, and he’s generously invited the village to drink champagne with their wealthy new neighbours. This will be the party to end all parties.
But not everyone is there to celebrate. By midnight, Rhys will be floating dead in the freezing waters of the lake.
On New Year’s Day, DC Ffion Morgan has a village full of suspects.
The tiny community is her home, so the suspects are her neighbours, friends and family – and Ffion has her own secrets to protect.
With a lie uncovered at every turn, soon the question isn’t who wanted Rhys dead . . . but who finally killed him.
In a village with this many secrets, a murder is just the beginning.
*****
It’s New Year’s Eve and Rhys Lloyd has a house full of guests. His holiday homes are a success and the small community from the nearby village have been invited to bring in the new year with their new wealthy neighbours.
By New Year’s Day, Rhys is dead and DC Ffion Morgan has a village full of suspects.
It seems Rhys had many enemies but who hated him enough to kill him?
This book was my introduction to Clare Mackintosh. The premise intrigued me so I was very pleased to get the chance to read and review The Last Party.
From the first page, this book had me seriously hooked to the point where I couldn’t put it down. I read it in pretty much one sitting.
by A Moment With…Marcela Mariz
I am very pleased to be welcoming Marcela Mariz to Novel Kicks today. Her novel, Let it Rain was released on 1st August.
*****
Mandy Olsen lives and breathes the Eighties: an era of great music, questionable fashion choices, and endless possibilities. It was also the only time Mandy was truly happy in her life.
Now working at the school she used to attend, Mandy’s fixation with the past is starting to attract attention. Jessy, the office mean girl, whispers that “Mental Mandy” is going off the deep end. Principal Weber prefers to call her confused. And to make matters worse, the mysterious hot new teacher has developed a knack for popping up at the most embarrassing moments possible.
If Mandy wants to keep her job, she knows she needs to face the grief that turned her world upside down. But can you grasp at a second chance if your best years are behind you?
Perfect for fans of Beth O’Leary and Sophie Kinsella, Let it Rain is a bittersweet coming-of-age story about friendship, rebellion, and finding the courage to love and laugh again.
Marcela has joined me today to talk about her writing journey, about becoming Comfortable with the Uncomfortable. Over to you, Marcela.
*****
People from Rio de Janeiro are among the quickest getting on and off buses. An interesting fact that I believe exemplifies what it is like growing up in the city. I’m not talking only about overcrowded buses with fiery drivers, who will often leave you behind if you are not fast enough getting on. Or even learning how to be street smart and carry two wallets, in case you were kindly asked to hand in all your money. It’s about getting comfortable with the uncomfortable. About making caipirinhas with the lemons thrown your way — which would often demand you to be creative, and would also directly influence my writing.
Since I was a kid, I carried the thrill of creating stories, sharing horror stories with my friends at sleepovers, or writing short stories for my parents in exchange for some spending money to feed my addiction to comics and sugary candies. Once my teenage years arrived, so did a bunch of insecurities. Writing would become my main passion — under pseudonyms only.
When I was in my senior year of high school, I auditioned as an actress for a well-known play in Rio. Intense rehearsals followed, over six hours every day of the week for four months. However, the night before the premiere, the play’s writer revoked the producer’s right to go forth with it. After so much work put in, I was utterly devastated, as was everyone. There were several young children in the cast, and it broke my heart completely to see them sobbing.
by Book Review: The Lottery by Peter Venison
If you found an unsigned lottery ticket, what would you do if it turned out to be worth millions? Hand it in or claim the prize?
Follow the twisting path of Maggie and Greg when faced with this dilemma.
Who are the winners and who are the real losers? What is the price of honesty and does winning bring happiness?
Can you do more good in the world if you are rich or poor? Find out in this intriguing tale of an ordinary family.
*****
Maggie and Greg are an ordinary couple living an ordinary life. They love each other and their children. However, when they find a ‘lost’ but valid lottery ticket, they are surprised to see that it wins them over £490 million, an amount that will change their lives forever, in ways they could never imagine.
It was so lovely to be invited onto the Clink Street Publishing Summer Tour and to be reviewing The Lottery by Peter Venison.
The premise of this novel intrigued me as I, like many others, have thought about what I would do if a won a big prize on the lottery.
I have to admit, it took me a few pages to get into this novel but, as it progressed, I found I got more and more invested in their story as they try to navigate life as millionaires. I can only imagine how it would feel to have that much money suddenly thrust into your life.
It was interesting to see how the money affected Greg and Maggie’s relationship especially when it came to the different plans on how to spend it. Greg takes the business approach – using the money to create more money and in the process, becomes a little mean and then a little lost. It certainly doesn’t make him happy as he continuously has to battle the issues that come with the decisions he makes on the back of the win.
by Book Review: The Waitress by Nina Manning
I’m pleased to be welcoming Nina Manning back to Novel Kicks. She’s here with the blog tour for her latest novel, The Waitress
Nameless. Faceless. Deadly?
Waitress Kit Lowman knows that people look down on her and the job she does. But being anonymous offers Kit safety and security and allows her own terrible secrets to remain hidden.
And then Kit’s luck changes, and she suddenly faces a terrible dilemma: reveal her true identity and accept that life will never be the same. Or stay in the shadows…where she hopes she’ll be safe?
But secrets can’t stay hidden forever. And the more Kit tries to hide away, the more someone makes it clear that they are going to make her pay for what she did.
*****
Kit is aware that people look down on her for being a waitress. However, for Kit, it’s a job she’s good at. It means she can stay anonymous and allows her to keep her secrets.
She wins a house but is worried that it will expose what she did. The more she hides, the more someone is going to make her pay. Nothing is what it seems.
I’d previously read Queen Bee and loved it so I was looking forward to reading the new book by Nina Manning.
Kit is obviously running from something and from page one, I was immediately pulled into her journey and could feel the tension starting to build.
by Book Review: A Wedding at Sandy Cove by Bella Osborne
A big huge welcome back to Bella Osborne. She’s here with the blog tour for her latest novel, A Wedding At Sandy Cove.
Escape to Sandy Cove, where the scent of summer and the sound of wedding bells are in the air!
Ella makes brides’ dreams come true – there’s no dress she can’t make perfect with her sewing skills and some sparkle. But Ella’s own love life is no fairy tale. Recently dumped, surrounded by fussy brides and with the prospect of wearing a hideous brown bridesmaids dress to her friend’s wedding, Ella feels more alone than ever so agrees to go on a blind date.
A mix up on the night introduces her to Kit.
Kit is definitely not the man she was supposed to meet, but he could end up changing her life in ways she never thought possible…
A perfectly funny, feel-good summer romance that will whisk you away to sandy beaches and a seaside wedding. Fans of Cathy Bramley, Katie Fforde and Milly Johnson will adore Bella Osborne.
*****
Working at a wedding dress shop, Ella is used to seeing other brides get their happily ever after. Her own life is totally different.
Dumped by her boyfriend and with her best friend’s wedding coming up, Ella lets herself get set up on a blind date. When she’s stood up, she bumps into Kit who is about to change her life forever.
I am always so excited when there is a new novel by Bella Osborne and I was pleased to be invited onto the blog tour for A Wedding at Sandy Cove.
First of all, the cover for this novel is so beautiful. You immediately feel the romance before you’ve even started the book.
I was immediately pulled into Ella’s story. She’s a sweet character and it was nice to see that this doesn’t change even when she begins to stick up for herself. She doesn’t lose her ability to see the good in people and I loved that.
Kit is a great example of someone who steps up when he needs to particularly when it comes to his family.
by Book Extract: Just One Day – Summer by Susan Buchanan
Welcome to Susan Buchanan and the blog tour for her novel, Just One Day – Summer.
List-juggling, business-owner mum-of-three Louisa is reeling after a tragedy, as well as learning how to cope after a life-changing revelation. With oil worker husband Ronnie possibly being able to move onshore, she hopes he can help her manage the burden.
But the secrets she keeps are causing her headaches and she’s unsure if her ability to make good decisions has deserted her. All she seems to do is upset those around her.
With Louisa’s to-do list gathering pace at an incredible speed, will she manage to provide a stable home for them all, embrace her new normal as well as rebuild their life from what’s left?
And if she gets what she has always wanted, will it match up to her expectations?
Susan has shared an extract with us today. Enjoy.
*****beginning of extract*****
Louisa is furious because Nicky’s ex is trying to keep her from seeing her son whilst she’s in hospital, and she’s not taking it lying down…
‘That’s where you’re wrong, Sebastian. You’re not going to keep Xander from Nicky, and that’s the end of it. Otherwise, I swear to God, I’ll personally see to it that she takes you to court. You were missing from his life for so many years when she had to bring Xander up on her own, whilst you–’ I indicate Brittany ‘–cavorted around behind her back.’
I pause to stop myself losing it with him. ‘Now, you may be making a better job of fatherhood this time around, and certainly I didn’t see you once change Xander’s nappy, but that doesn’t give you the right to give Nicky shit for meeting and moving in with someone else.’
He goes to interrupt, but I hold up a hand. ‘Let’s face it, you were beyond awful to Nicky, and I hope for Brittany’s sake, and your daughter’s, that the leopard really has changed his spots, but you have no right to try to stop Nicky from seeing Xander, or indeed be pissed off at her moving in with Valentin. No right. Do you understand?’
He stares at me, but I clock him keeping an eye on Ronnie out of the corner of his eye.
by
I am delighted to be welcoming Kathy Strobos to Novel Kicks today. She’s here with the blog tour for her novel, Caper Crush.
A feel-good, opposites-attract, slow burn romantic comedy
Somebody stole my painting! The one I need for the career-defining Vertex Art Exhibit. This upcoming art show is my chance to finally be recognized as an artist—after ten years of waitressing and being asked if I still have that “lovely painting hobby.”
I have mere weeks to find my painting or lose my artist dream forever—but it’s going to mean working with William.
William Haruki Matsumura. Good-looking, if you like the Secret Service type. You know, law-abiding, protector of women and children. That’s all fine, but I can never tell what he’s thinking. Which drives me crazy.
He insists on coming along to do “damage control.” As if “accidentally” wandering into certain areas is “breaking and entering.” I may be an emotional artist, but William shouldn’t dismiss my investigative skills yet.
William is definitely my opposite, and, if there’s one takeaway from my parents’ divorce, it’s that opposites might attract, but it doesn’t last. But detecting with William is kind of fun—and fluttery. I definitely can’t trust these feelings, or can I? However this caper ends, I think this may be more than a crush.
Kathy has shared an extract with us today. Enjoy!
*****beginning of extract*****
In this excerpt, Miranda is eavesdropping on a conversation between two potential suspects (Edmund and Vinnie). She suspects that one of them stole the paintings. She is outside in the garden, crouched down, listening under an open window. William has left to park the car somewhere else:
My foot tickles. I look down. And shriek. Some huge, slimy, sluglike thing is crawling on my foot. I jump up and shake my foot.
Shit.
I dash around the side of the house—only to bump straight into a hard chest.
William. His hands reach out to steady me, and then he pulls me closer to him.
“What happened?”
“Slug on my foot.”
“I know I heard something.” Vinnie’s voice. Crunch. They are outside. They must be on the footpath leading to the house.
William flattens me against the wall behind a pine tree that’s close enough to the house to hide us. His chest is against mine.
by Book Review: Anything Could Happen by Lucy Diamond
I am pleased to be welcoming Lucy Diamond to Novel Kicks. She’s here with the blog tour for her novel, Anything Could Happen which has been released in paperback.
Your big secret is out. What next?
For Lara and her daughter Eliza, it has always been just the two of them. But when Eliza turns eighteen and wants to connect with her father, Lara is forced to admit a secret that she has been keeping from her daughter her whole life.
Eliza needs answers – and so does Lara. Their journey to the truth will take them on a road trip across England and eventually to New York, where it all began. Dreams might have been broken and opportunities missed, but there are still surprises in store…
*****
I loved the title and the premise for this novel so I was excited when I got invited onto the blog tour for Anything Could Happen.
Lara and Ben share a memorable night in New York and have dreams of a potential life together. However, life intervenes, and they don’t see each other until nineteen years later when their daughter, Eliza, tracks Ben down to inform him that he is her father.
For Ben, it’s a big shock, not to mention having to tell his wife, Kirsten who doesn’t take it very well.
Told from the point of view of Lara, Ben, Eliza and Kirsten, this book explores the impact of finding out that you have a child and how that affects your life. It also shines a spotlight on a marriage that was already only hanging on by a thread.
I loved Lara. She’s feisty and, even though she needs a little reminder to not be so scared, she knows herself. Eliza is like her mother – a strong female character. She is trying to find out who she is and discover what she wants from life and right now, she wants to get to meet the dad she never met.
by Book Review: And Then There’s Margaret by Carolyn Clarke
Marriage and midlife can be difficult. But when you add a controlling, manipulative and self-absorbed mother-in-law into the mix, things can get worse-much worse. Toxic, even.
When Allison Montgomery’s beloved father-in-law and long-time confidant passes away, her mother-in-law, Margaret, ‘temporarily’ moves in. From rearranging the furniture and taking over the kitchen, to undermining and embarrassing Allie at every turn, including funding her daughter’s escape, throwing a hissy fit at the mall, and publicly equating Allie’s glass of Chardonnay to full blown alcoholism, Margaret turns Allie’s life upside down causing her to bounce between a sincere desire to support her grieving mother-in-law and an intense urge to simply push her out of the nearest window.
Feeling annoyed, trapped and even a little childish, Allie struggles to avoid a complete meltdown with help from her fearless and audacious best friend, a plan for reinventing herself and enjoying a second act, and, yes, a few glasses of Chardonnay. Along the way, Allie discovers the reasons behind Margaret’s attitude toward her all these years. Does it help? Maybe…
*****
The premise for this novel intrigued me as I have always been fascinated by the relationships between family, especially when marriage occurs. You are thrown together with people who you may or may not have chosen to be around.
Allie has always had a good relationship with her father-in-law, George but, when he passes away, her mother-in-law, Margaret moves into her home for a while.
It’s clear from the outset that these two women should not be sharing a space. Haha. Allie behaves in a way that I feel is totally relatable and I cheered when she stood up for herself. However, Margaret is also going through a bad time in her life so it was hard to just dismiss her as difficult. There is more to Margaret’s behaviour than Allie realises.
by
We are so pleased to be welcoming S. Bavey to Novel Kicks today. She’s here with the blog tour for her book, Lucky Jack (1894 – 2000)
“One of the perils of being a sniper during the First World War was the likelihood of a grenade going off right next to you and burying you alive”.
Meet Jack Rogers. Born in 1894, he once locked eyes with Queen Victoria and was one of the first travellers on London’s ‘Tube’. An early car owner, he had many escapades on his days out to Brighton, including a time when his brakes failed and he had to drive through central London without them!
His skills as an entertainer earned him popularity throughout his life, and kept him out of the deadly mines while a prisoner during the First World War. At the tender age of 103 Jack earned the title of ‘The World’s Oldest Columnist’ as he began dictating his life’s exploits to a reporter from the local newspaper.
*****
I have to admit, memoir type books are not always something I will immediately pick to read but there was something about Jack’s story that drew me to it.
The book, written by Jack’s Granddaughter, is presented in a first person narrative, from Jack’s point of view, as though he were writing a diary. This felt as though I was going through his life with him and boy, what a life.
Born in the 1800’s, Jack lived through two world wars, fought in the first. becoming a POW, saw many prime ministers, witnessed many technological and medical advances, lived in three centuries, locked eyes with Queen Victoria and was amongst the first people to ride the Tube. His stories and anecdotes throughout were fascinating.
by Book Review: The Heart Warrior’s Mother by Marilyn Cohen de Villiers
I am pleased to be welcoming Marilyn Cohen de Villiers to Novel Kicks. She’s here with the blog tour for her book, The Heart Warrior’s Mother.
Kerry-Anne Aarons is over the moon. She and her husband, Imran Patel, are about to become the parents of a baby daughter, and give their son, Leo, an adored little sister. It wasn’t planned, but Kerry knows that Lily’s arrival will complete the perfect little family she has always wanted. She, Imran and their two children are going to live happily ever after…
Then life intervenes.
Lily is born with a serious congenital heart defect and Kerry’s battle to save her daughter commences. It’s a battle that takes her from the operating theatres and Intensive Care Units of local hospitals to the High Court of South Africa. It’s a battle that strains her relationships with her friends, her parents, and – ultimately – her husband. It’s a battle she is determined to win.
But how much will Kerry have to sacrifice to give Lily the future she deserves?
“A true, cross-generational story of the eternal link between love and pain… the greater the love, the more inevitable the pain. Marilyn Cohen de Villiers once again – with amazing skill – depicts the common humanity that transcends differing cultures.”
James Mitchell – former Book Editor, The Star, Johannesburg
A percentage of the proceeds of this novel will be donated to the Children’s Cardiac Foundation of Africa, an organisation that funds lifesaving heart surgery for children across the continent.
*****
This was not an easy book to read. It took me through a large rollercoaster of emotions and, I feel that, if you’ve lost a child, whether it be to miscarriage or illness post birth, be prepared as this novel deals with some very difficult issues.
It however does this with extreme sensitivity and knowledge. There was a feeling that the author had really researched her subject matter and this adds a lot to the novel. To also know that this was based on a true story makes it all the more heart breaking.
From the beginning, you really do feel for Kerry and Imran – to have to see a child going through so much from birth. I turned every page hoping that things would turn around – that everything will be ok.
by Book Review: The Island of Lost Girls by Alex Marwood
1985
For twelve-year-old Mercedes, La Kastellana is the place she calls home. It is an island untouched by the modern world, with deep-rooted traditions – though that is all about to change with the arrival of multimillionaire Matthew Meade and his spoiled young daughter, Tatiana. The Meades bring with them unimaginable wealth, but the price they will all pay is far darker than Mercedes and the islanders could ever have imagined.
2016
Robin is desperately searching for her seventeen-year-old daughter Gemma, who has been missing for over a year. Finding herself on La Kastellana, the island playground of the international jet set, Robin is out of her depth. Nobody wants to help and Robin fears she is running out of time to find her child.
But someone has been watching, silently waiting for their moment to expose the dark truth and reveal to the world what really happens on the island of lost girls.
*****
It’s 1985.
Twelve-year-old Mercedes has known nothing but La Kastellana. This island is home, untouched by the modern world beyond.
That is until multi-millionaire Matthew Meade shows up with his spoiled, thirteen-year-old daughter, Tatiana.
It isn’t long before Mercedes and her family are tied to the Meades and Matthew’s influence runs deep.
2016.
Robin finds herself on La Kastellana in her search for her missing seventeen-year-old daughter, Gemma.
Surrounded by the rich, little help is given to Robin and she has a feeling she’s running out of time.
But someone is waiting to expose the truth about the Meades, however dark.
This was my introduction to Alex Marwood and from page one, I was hooked. Spilt across multiple points of view, the story goes between 1985 and 2016.
In 1985, Mercedes is a very sheltered girl who is used to growing up amongst her island’s traditions. So, when she meets self-assured Tatiana, she is thrown into a whole different world, one she is not prepared for.
by Blog : Review: Lush Monthly Subscription Box
I don’t know about you but, for me, books and a warm bath often go hand in hand. It’s part of my routine at night and something I look forward to especially if I get to use a product from one of my favourite shops. So, a little something different review wise today – The Lush Subscription Box.
I was aware that Lush had started a subscription box and decided to recently sign up after seeing a review for a previous box online.
The box is £35 + postage. For many, me included, that’s a lot. However, as mentioned above, my baths are a big part of my day and so, I felt it was worth giving it a go.
How it works – at the beginning of the month, subscribers are given the chance to vote for a selection of items. The four products with the most votes get put into the box, along with a couple of surprises thrown in. I loved this process and it made me all the more excited for the box to arrive.
You get charged on 5th of the month. The box then dispatches at the end of that month.
When the box arrived, it was a little like Christmas. Opening the box felt like I was standing in the middle of a Lush store – you know that smell, right.
The theme of this month seems to be Citrus which is perfect for summer.
OK, so on to the contents. There were six full size products included which I was impressed with. All the products are also self-preserving. In my opinion, with the products I have previously used, this seems to give the item a longer shelf life.
So without further ado, let’s dive into this Lush box.
Turtle Jelly Bomb.
I seem to remember that this product divided opinion amongst my friends when it was first released in the shops and I have to admit, I hadn’t noticed that it had disappeared. However, I was so pleased to see this little guy again.
I, for one, loved the jelly bombs. Yes, they are a little messy and slippy but so much fun.
It has sandalwood, sea salt and pine listed amongst the ingredients. It smells fresh, like that lovely smell of salted air near the beach. I am looking forward to using this product.
Nausicaa’s Golden Flask Shower Oil.
by Book Extract: Twelve Nights by Penny Ingham
I am pleased to be welcoming Penny Ingham to Novel Kicks. She’s here with the blog tour for her novel, Twelve Nights.
The Theatre
London, 1592
When a player is murdered, suspicion falls on the wardrobe mistress, Magdalen Bisset, because everyone knows poison is a woman’s weapon. The scandal-pamphlets vilify her. The coroner is convinced of her guilt.
Magdalen is innocent, although few are willing to help her prove it. Her much-loved grandmother is too old and sick. Will Shakespeare is benignly detached, and her friend Christopher Marlowe is wholly unreliable. Only one man offers his assistance, but dare she trust him when nothing about him rings true?
With just two weeks until the inquest, Magdalen ignores anonymous threats to ‘leave it be’, and delves into the dangerous underworld of a city seething with religious and racial tension. As time runs out, she must risk everything in her search for the true killer – for all other roads lead to the gallows.
Penny has shared an extract from Twelve Nights with us today. Enjoy!
*****beginning of extract*****
Thank you so much to Laura at Novel Kicks for letting me share my latest novel with her readers.
Twelve Nights is set in 1592, in the wild and glamourous heart of Elizabethan theatreland. When a player is murdered, suspicion falls on the wardrobe mistress, Magdalen Bisset, because everyone knows poison is a woman’s weapon.
Magdalen is innocent, although few are willing to help her prove it. Her much-loved grandmother is too old and sick. Will Shakespeare is benignly detached, and her friend Christopher Marlowe is wholly unreliable. Only one man offers his assistance – she is drawn to handsome Matthew Hilliard, but dare she trust him when nothing about him rings true?
With just two weeks until the inquest, Magdalen ignores anonymous threats to ‘leave it be’, and delves into the dangerous underworld of a city seething with religious and racial tension. As time runs out, she must risk everything in her search for the true killer – for all other roads lead to the gallows.
Here’s a sneak preview of the first few pages:
“John Wood looked very ill. A rivulet of sweat ran through his face paint, and his hand trembled as he straightened his long blond wig. Magdalen would have liked to ask what ailed him, but her lips were clamped around half a dozen tiny dressmaking pins. She shook her head, a silent plea for him to be still whilst she attached the sleeves to his gown.
A cacophony of frantic voices vied for her attention:
‘Where are my yellow stockings?’
‘Help me fasten my laces!’
‘I can’t find the cushions for Orsino’s palace!’
by My Writing Ramblings: My June Favourites
Netflix, 2022
Hello July. It’s so lovely to see you. Summer is here. Let’s hope the nice weather continues.
As we’ve said goodbye to June, I wanted to share some of my favourites from last month with you. So, here we go.
Stranger Things.
I was so excited when the new episodes for Stranger Things 4 were announced. Netflix did something a little different this time and released the series in two volumes; the first seven episodes being available on 27th May and the last two releasing at the beginning of July.
My husband and I didn’t immediately watch it. We wanted to wait until the end of June so we wouldn’t have to wait too long for the last two episodes and I was so glad we did.
I loved every moment of this series. It was so well written and had me on the edge of my seat the whole time. I just couldn’t see where it was going. Incidentally, the creators of Stranger Things have done a class on Masterclass that I am very interested in viewing.
Now, I am not a ‘horror film and TV’ person but this series, for the most part, is AMAZING. If you’ve not given it a go yet, I recommend it (although there is one scene in a previous series I could have done without.)
Disney, Jam City Inc.
Aside from anything else, it has a fantastic 80’s soundtrack including great inclusion of ‘Running Up That Hill’ by Kate Bush and Separate Ways (Worlds Apart) by Journey.
Oh, I love it.
Disney Emoji Blitz (Apple and Google Play.)
My second favourite is an app – Disney Emoji Blitz. I want to start with the thing I dislike most about this app (yes, I know, strange considering it’s a favourites post.) It can be very expensive to play. You can progress without spending much but it will take a lot longer so, if you’ve got more patience than me, it’s perfect.
It’s like Candy Crush Saga in that it’s a match game and yes, it’s Disney. I am in my 40’s and I love Disney. I admit it. I’m proud of it. LOL.
If you can get over the cost, it’s a very fun yet calming game to play. I usually play it before I go to sleep as it helps to chill me out and calms the anxiety.
The Fire Killer by Ross Greenwood.
by Book Extract: Ember by Catherine Yardley
Welcome to Catherine Yardley. She’s here with the blog tour for her novel, Ember.
A family torn apart by their father’s infidelity are forced to confront the past thirty years later. As Natalie’s younger sister, Amanda, prepares for marriage and impending motherhood, her plea for the family to reunite uncovers pent-up tension and animosity. Can they forget the past and become a family again?
Natalie’s life begins to unravel as their father starts to creep back into their lives and family tensions resurface, affecting her relationship with her boyfriend, Rob. Will the couple find their way back to each other, and can a family that has been torn apart ever heal their wounds?
Can you ever walk away from someone you love, or do some fires never die out?
Catherine has shared an extract with us today. Enjoy!
(Warning: Language.)
*****beginning of extract*****
Ember is a dual timeline novel about childhood trauma and how we carry it around with us. Natalie had a terrible childhood being a parent to her younger siblings. Her father broke up the family on Christmas day after an affair. It’s thirty years later and her younger sister is getting married and gets pregnant before her. Their father wants back into their lives. But every sibling remembers their childhood differently and Natalie is ganged up on by her siblings and father. She self destructs and leaves her loving boyfriend. Will she heal her wound and get her life back on track? Read Ember to find out.
That Moment
Rob
Watching Natalie drive off, leaving me on the side of the motorway, felt like an out-of-body experience. Had that really happened? Hell, what, had just happened? Looking around and almost expecting to wake up from a dream, it finally hits me and I snap.
‘That’s actually my fucking car!’
Out of all of the grand theft auto in history, this one has to be the most vicious. And original.
It feels like I have been walking along the motorway for days. Car headlights blind me. Everything is grey and dour. I keep going over every single detail about today. What could possibly have triggered such an extreme reaction? I cannot think of one thing I could have said to upset her. Never mind get dumped on the side of a motorway. We had not argued. The entire thing was such bullshit. It was just a pre-wedding get-together in the country. Partly to meet Neil’s family and partly to just have a get-together. Nothing happened. Nothing I can think of anyway.
by Book Review: The Billionaire Behind The Headlines by Rachael Stewart
I am pleased to be welcoming Rachael Stewart to Novel Kicks today and the blog tour for her novel, The Billionaire Behind the Headlines, released today by Mills and Boon True Love.
In Rachael Stewart’s latest Harlequin Romance, the second in her Claiming the Ferrington Empire duet, an invitation to Paris with a billionaire is on the cards, but only if Bree is brave enough to take it…
Can a playboy billionaire……capture her heart?
Bree has escaped the big city to heal her heart in a village bakery. But when notorious billionaire Theo walks through the door, emotionally guarded Bree discovers it’s not just her toffee pudding that’s hot and sweet! The man behind the headlines is charming but intriguingly cynical about love. Accepting his invitation to Paris could be a mistake—or the best decision she’s ever made…
*****
The Billionaire Behind The Headlines is the second novel in the Claiming the Ferrington Empire series. I have not read the first novel, Secrets Behind The Billionaire’s Return but that did not stop me from keeping up with what was going on.
Whilst the first in the series mostly focuses on Sebastian and Felicity, this novel has the former’s brother, Theo returning to the Yorkshire village of Elmdale.
His most recent breakup is not doing anything to help his playboy image but there is another reason for him returning to Yorkshire. He needs to make up his past failings toward his brother.
Bree, having escaped her London life three years previously is content to be working in her Aunt’s bakery. She was not counting on meeting sexy, charming Theo.
Having read very little Mills & Boon, to be honest, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect from this novel but I was very intrigued.
The chemistry between Bree and Theo is immediately evident and I loved the easy conversation that happened between the two of them. It slowly becomes obvious that Theo is more than the man the media portray him to be. As in real life, I think it’s easy to forget that these are real people being reported on, not just a concept without feelings and emotions and that what we read is not always a reliable snapshot.
by Book Review: The Time of My Life by Rosie Mullender
This Friday the 13th has been particularly unlucky.
Jess has been fired from her comfortable job. She’s gone from dating two guys to none. She’s been kicked out of her mediocre flat. And worst of all, she’s really really let down her best friend.
As she drifts off to sleep, she is filled with relief that this terrible day is over. Tomorrow she will try to fix things, tomorrow cannot be any worse than this.
Except it is. Maybe not worse… but exactly the same. When Jess wakes up the next morning, it is Friday the 13th again. And again. And again. And again.
Jess knows how this goes, she’s seen the films, this is her wake up call. But she had no idea she needed a wake up call. How is Jess supposed to work out where she’s gone wrong when, as far as she’s concerned, she’s been having the time of her life?
*****
Friday 13th turns out to be pretty unlucky for Jess. By the end of the day, she finds herself out of a job, a flat and goes from casually dating two guys to none.
Then she finds herself repeating the same day again and again and again.
Jess wants to know why this is happening and how she can return to her carefree life.
I was very much drawn to the premise of this book as it is something I have daydreamed a lot about ever since I saw Groundhog Day. What would I do if I found myself reliving a day of my life over and over, so I was excited to start reading this debut novel from Rosie Mullender.
From the beginning, it’s clear to see that fun-loving Jess is frightened of commitment and responsibility. She actively avoids these two things.
As the story progresses, Jess comes to realise that she can’t run from her life or the guilt that she carries. That, in the end, it will catch up with her and force her to confront it.
by Book Extract: The Elephant Girl by Henriette Gyland
I am pleased to be welcoming Henriette Gyland to Novel Kicks today and the blog tour for her novel, The Elephant Girl.
I think I saw you …
It’s been twenty years, and Helen Stephens has come home to stay. And to get revenge on the person who murdered her mother. If only she knew who it was … But nothing is ever black or white, and when she rents a room in a house full of ex-offenders, the events of that fateful day blur even further, leading her to question her resolve and her memory.
Jason Moody, who runs the half-way house, has his own shame. When he uncovers her intent, he begins to suspect that someone close to him could be involved …
A coincidence? Or is there something else going on?
Henriette has shared an extract with us today so grab the tea, biscuits and pull up a comfy chair and enjoy.
*****beginning of extract*****
In this scene, after having returned from travelling for a number of years, Helen visits her grandmother, or more precisely, step-grandmother, who explains to her that now she’s twenty-five years old, she’s expected to sit on the board of the family business. Helen was never into the corporate life and is stunned. Even more so when she learns just how wealthy she now is.
*****
The door opened and Mrs Sanders reappeared. ‘Yes, Mrs Ransome?’
‘Oh, Sanders, now that my granddaughter has arrived would you be so kind and serve elevenses. We’ll have tea and some of that Victoria sponge cake with Fortnum’s strawberry preserve.’
‘But, Mrs Ransome, that’s far too rich for you.’
‘Nonsense, woman. When did a little cake hurt anyone? And I don’t see my granddaughter every day. The child has been to India. Heaven knows what they get to eat there.’
‘Egg and chips,’ Helen remarked.
Mrs Sanders left them again, muttering to herself.
‘Why aren’t you allowed cake?’ Helen asked though she knew the answer.
‘I’m diabetic and under strict orders not to eat anything nice.’ Aggie’s small eyes twinkled behind their folds of flesh. ‘And Mrs Sanders takes her job very seriously. Letitia engaged her.’
by Novel Kicks Book Club: Malibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Penguin, April 2022.
Hello fellow book lovers.
I am very excited for this month’s book, Malibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins Reid.
This is an author that has been on my TBR list for a long time (I have heard so many good things about The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo.)
I chose this one for July as the cover of this novel screams summer. I can just imagine sun, cold drink and this book.
Our book club is completely open to everyone and anyone. You can join in at any point in the month whether you’re reading along with me or have already read it.
I have posted a question below in the comments to kick off the discussion and I look forward to seeing you there and talking about this book.
Here’s the blurb:
by Book Review: Love You From A-Z by Linda Corbett
It’s my pleasure to welcome Linda Corbett to Novel Kicks today and the blog tour for her novel, Love You From A-Z.
Experience has told Jenna Oakhurst that Happy Ever After may happen in all the best stories, but Happy For Now is the best one ought to expect in real life.
Yet lately even that isn’t quite enough, so when a strange set of circumstances leads her to discover a mysterious letter in an abandoned storage unit, she takes the chance to embark on a journey into the unknown…just like the heroines from the storybooks.
Reaching out to the letter’s author, Henry Somners, changes Jenna’s world irrevocably and she starts to realise that the magic she believed in as a child might not be such a fanciful notion after all…
*****
Jenna believes that happily ever after belongs only in stories. It’s not something she expects to happen in real life.
When her boyfriend buys an abandoned storage unit, she discovers an unopened letter which leads her to Henry. This meeting will change her life in more ways than one.
This book sounded intriguing so I was excited to be invited onto the blog tour and couldn’t wait to get started.
From the start it’s clear to see that Jenna is a serious person and the more you get to know her, you realise that her former life experiences have been a huge contributor to that. I loved her as a character and loved watching her develop.
by Cover Reveal: Just One Day – Summer by Susan Buchanan
I am very excited to be helping to reveal the cover for Susan Buchanan’s book, Just One Day – Summer, which is due for release on 26th July 2022.
List-juggling, business-owner mum-of-three Louisa is reeling after a tragedy, as well as learning how to cope after a life-changing revelation. With oil worker husband Ronnie possibly being able to move onshore, she hopes he can help her manage the burden.
But the secrets she keeps are causing her headaches and she’s unsure if her ability to make good decisions has deserted her. All she seems to do is upset those around her.
With Louisa’s to-do list gathering pace at an incredible speed, will she manage to provide a stable home for them all, embrace her new normal as well as rebuild their life from what’s left?
And if she gets what she has always wanted, will it match up to her expectations?
OK, are you ready. Three, two, one…
by Book Review: Who Do You Think You Are Maggie Pink? by Janet Hoggarth
I am pleased to be welcoming back Janet Hoggarth to Novel Kicks and the blog tour for her novel, Who Do You Think You Are Maggie Pink
Maggie Pink is a lot of things to a lot of people, but does she know who she really is?
Maggie is a mother to a stroppy teenager, a wife to a befuddled husband, and a daughter to two very different women. She has always known she’s adopted, but has she ever understood what that means? Not really.
Following the death of her mother, Maggie finally feels able to go in search of her birth mother Morag, and heads to the Highlands of Scotland with her disgruntled daughter Roxie in tow, leaving her crumbling marriage to worry about another day.
The family reunion is bittersweet, but everything is blown wide open when Roxie unearths Morag’s explosive teenage diaries. Why did Morag give Maggie away? What really happened all those years ago, and how have the echoes of the past resounded through the generations, like ripples in a puddle?
And when all the secrets and promises are out in the open, will Maggie finally have an answer to the question – who do you think you are Maggie Pink?
*****
Maggie Pink is a wife to Adam and a mother to teenager, Roxie. Mother and daughter do not have the best relationship.
Maggie has also always known that she was adopted.
When her mother dies, Maggie feels that it’s time to go looking for her birth mother, Morag.
However, the secrets and revelations are only just beginning.
I have previously had the opportunity on this blog to share an extract from Janet’s novel, The Single Mums Move On, and so when I was invited onto the blog tour for her latest novel, Who Do You Think You Are Maggie Pink?, I jumped at the chance and couldn’t wait to get started.
I knew from the books description that this novel was going to be a bit of an emotional rollercoaster and I wasn’t wrong.
I did like the multiple viewpoints as it gave a real overall picture of what all these women were going through and thinking.
Maggie was someone I could relate to, having lost my own mother in my 30’s. To start with, she’s a hard character to get to know. She’s a closed book but as the plot progressed, you begin to understand why.
Roxie is a typical teenager but, like with Maggie, empathy for her builds throughout the novel as you see things from her point of view.
The plot, in my opinion, moves well and the characters are well rounded. The supporting characters, Fiona, Issy and Angus especially are wonderful.
by Book Review: The Fire Killer by Ross Greenwood
A lovely big welcome back to Ross Greenwood and the blog tour for his novel, The Fire Killer.
When DI Barton is asked to investigate a seemingly innocuous fire that kills, he believes it’s either children fooling around or a worrying racially motivated crime.
As he delves deeper into the case, he soon realises that there is a history of similar blazes spread out over many years, all within a close area. And after an idea is suggested by pathologist Mortis, Barton suspects he has the arsonist’s motives wrong.
When a night worker comes forward with a tip, Barton narrows down the suspects. Yet all of them act suspiciously and he knows for sure that one or more of them are lying. And when a huge house blaze shocks everyone, Barton fears the killer has lost all control.
Who is The Fire Killer? What will be next to burn?
*****
DI Barton and his team are back!
A mysterious person is setting fires and it’s not long before arson turns into murder. Time is running out. Can they find The Fire Killer before they kill again?
Having previously read The Cold Killer, I was excited to start reading DI Barton’s latest case. If you haven’t read any of the previous novels, don’t worry. This can be read as a standalone although I do recommend them. They are so good! In fact, DI Barton and his team are now amongst my favourite fictional crime solvers. The Fire Killer is book five in the series. In case you wanted to pick up this series from the beginning, it starts off with The Snow Killer, then The Soul Killer, The Ice Killer and the Cold Killer.
Ross Greenwood immediately draws you into the action so I very quickly got pulled into the story, wanting to know what happens.
The tension and suspense builds very well and I was with these characters, invested in trying to find this killer.
by
A big welcome to Georgina Troy who is here with the blog tour for her new novel, Finding Love on Sunshine Island.
Welcome to the Sunshine Island – where the beaches are golden, the lifestyle is perfect and anything is possible.
Piper Le Brocq is happily single after the disastrous ending of her engagement eighteen months before. The only man in her life is Jax, her best friend and cousin, who spends his life teaching locals how to forage and taking tourists on boat trips around the island. Her days are filled with helping out at her mother’s guest house and selling her glass mosaics at The Cabbage Patch emporium in Trinity.
Piper loves living on the Sunshine Island, where the neighbours look out for each other and visitors are welcome. So, when handsome guest Alex Cooper arrives at the guest house to check up on his grandfather, she welcomes him to the sunny island. And when he needs help after his grandfather is injured, she’s quick to get involved.
Yet, the more she gets to know Alex the more mysterious he seems, and Alex isn’t the only one keeping secrets from her.
*****
After a horrible breakup, Piper is happily single, helping her mother at the family guest house on Jersey and creating glass mosaics for sale.
When Alex Cooper arrives to see his grandfather, she welcomes him and even helps him out when there’s an accident. However, is love about to catch her unawares?
I adore the fact that Piper refers to Jersey as the ‘sunshine island.’ I’ve never been there but this, as well as the vivid descriptions in the novel, meant that I could really imagine myself there, amongst these wonderfully well written characters.
It isn’t hard to like Piper. She’s had a lot happen but she has picked herself up and has created her own business. I wanted things to be OK for her.
Alex adds mystery to the story. He’s lovely and charming but he is holding something back. I was intrigued to know what.
by Book Review: My Corfu Love Story by Effrosyni Moschoudi
Spyri forever lives in the past, haunted by old memories. This summer, she meets a man she once loved, and he is about to change everything…
Spyri, a half-Greek restaurateur in her early thirties, is back on the island of Corfu, staying in her grandmother’s village home for a few days to decompress from her busy life in London. Her nostalgia for the good old summer days hit her upon her return.
When she hears that Markos, the one she never forgot, is staying at the village, she becomes excited. Sparks begin to fly when they meet, but Markos has his own hurts of the past to deal with…
Spyri, weary with her life as a restauranteur in London is back on the island of Corfu, staying at her beloved Grandmother’s house.
It isn’t long before she becomes nostalgic for the wonderful summer days of her youth. This feeling is made stronger when she hears that Markos, the man she never stopped thinking about, is also back in the village.
*****
My Corfu Love Story is the new novella from author, Effrosyni Moschoudi.
I immediately fell into the story and I loved Spyri. She’s feisty and strong and there was also a vulnerability to her that made her feel very human and real.
by Book Club
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