** Blog Tour ** My (Not-So) Perfect Summer- Phoebe MacLeod

I’m delighted to be one of today’s stops on the opening day of the blog tour for ‘My (not-so) Perfect Summer.’

Autumn’s summer is off to a smashing start… sort of.

Earlier this year, Autumn’s life looked great: she had a great relationship with her brilliant teenage daughter Chloe and from September she was all set to be Deputy Head at the London school where she works. And with a pay rise on the cards, she was excited for her and her long-term boyfriend Marc to buy their first home.

But Autumn’s barely opened the estate agent’s website when Marc vanishes with half their savings, leaving her no choice but to move into grandma’s rural home in Kent. And things go from bad to worse when Autumn is involved in an accident during the move, leaving the village’s dashing new baker Jake in plaster cast, and making her a local outcast before she’s even unpacked her bags.

Determined to put things right, Autumn offers to help Jake in the bakery over the summer holidays. But as things heat up in the kitchen, Autumn can’t help noticing that Jake is a lot more Paul Hollywood and a lot less Mr Kipling than she originally thought.

Maybe this summer isn’t such a write off after all?

Purchase Link – https://mybook.to/MyNotSosocial

Author Bio –

Phoebe MacLeod is the author of several popular romantic comedies. She lives in Kent with her partner, grown up children and disobedient dog. Her love for her home county is apparent in her books, which have either been set in Kent or have a Kentish connection. She currently works as an IT consultant and writes in her spare time. She has always had a passion for learning new skills, including cookery courses, learning to drive an HGV and, most recently, qualifying to instruct on a Boeing 737 flight simulator.

Phoebe loves watching people and observing social interaction. In fact she nearly got into trouble once when a man in a shopping mall thought she was staring at him! As well as curling up with a book, she loves good food, good wine and good friends – especially when all three come together!

 Social Media Links –  

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/macleod_phoebe

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phoebemacleod21/

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

Bookbub profile: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/phoebe-macleod

Review-

This is the second of Phoebe MacLeod’s books I’ve read, having previously enjoyed and reviewed ‘An (Un) Romantic Comedy’.

I was drawn straight into this one by the ‘16.5 years earlier’ opening chapter and warmed to Autumn’s character straightaway.

I hadn’t reread the blurb before reading so was gobsmacked by Marc’s behaviour and in total admiration of how both Autumn and Chloe took things in their stride, ably helped by Autumn’s mum whose pragmatic approach to life is a breath of fresh air.

I love Autumn’s strength of character throughout, from her confrontation early on with Sue over the deputy position, to her assertiveness with Joan in the village and when she takes the plunge with Jake after being egged on by her mum and Chloe.

Despite some difficult life moments for the characters, this is a lighthearted read with plenty of humour. It’s a fast paced, easy read and one I was reluctant to put down, eager to find out what happened next.

With thanks to the author, Rachel at Random Resources and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to participate in the tour.

Further stops can be found here:

** Blog Tour ** One Year After You- Shari Low

I’m thrilled to be one of today’s stops on the blog tour for ‘One Year After You.’

For forty years the fabulous Odette Devine has been a beloved matriarchal actress on Scotland’s longest-running TV show. Today she is broken, betrayed, and desperate to find out if this is her payback for a lie she told forty years ago.

A year ago today, Tress Walker’s husband was killed in a car accident, on the same day she gave birth to their baby. Reeling from the discovery that he was with his mistress, Tress has to choose whether
to protect her fragile heart or open it to love again.

Noah Clark was devastated to discover his wife and his best friend were having an affair. Now the love of his life is asking for another chance to make their marriage work. But can there ever be a way back, once the trust is broken?

Noah’s sister Keli Clark has recently been ghosted by the man she loves. When a shocking message from a complete stranger reveals the reason why, Keli will have to decide whether to forgive, forget, or to make sure he pays.

Twenty-four hours. Four shocking secrets. One tumultuous tale of love, loss and second chances.

Purchase Link – https://mybook.to/oneyearafteryousocial

Author Bio –

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

Social Media Links –

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shari.low

Twitter https://twitter.com/sharilow

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

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

Bookbub profile: Shari Low Books – BookBub

Review-

I feel like I’m running out of superlatives to describe Shari Low’s books! I’m always chomping at the bit to read her latest offerings and was delighted that this one provided an update on the lives of the central characters in her previous book ‘One Day with You.’

Told over a 24-hour timeline, this novel centres around the lives of Tress, Noah, Odette and Keli, with a few old regulars popping up as well for good measure!

Although this is a sequel, please don’t be put off if you haven’t read the first book as this one gives enough background detail to be read as a standalone. (That said, if you’ve got the time, it’s definitely worth investing in both!)

The author has an incredible way of drawing you straight into the storyline with heartfelt, believable characters who all make their mark in some way or another and who, as a reader, you can’t help but invest in. Her ability to draw their lives together over the chapters is second to none, as is the way she manages to combine some hard hitting topics with the perfect blend of humour.

Yet another triumph from this remarkable author. I’m already eagerly anticipating what’s next!

With thanks to the author, Rachel at Random Resources and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to participate in the tour.

Further stops can be found here:

** Blog Tour ** Enemies to Lovers- Portia Macintosh

I’m delighted to be posting my first book review of 2024 as one of today’s stops on the blog tour for ‘Enemies to Lovers.’

Lara and Sonny are sworn enemies.

As rival showbiz journalists, they are always out to get one-up on each other – whether being the first to scoop the latest celebrity gossip, or sabotaging a potential lead.

So when their bosses ask them to join forces and go undercover at an exclusive celebrity retreat, they can’t think of anything worse – except that they are going to need to pretend to be in couples therapy to blend in…

Being on a tropical island for work would be most people’s idea of heaven, but for Lara and Sonny it’s hell. Can a week of sun, sea and uncovering showbiz secrets together chip away at Lara and Sonny’s
rivalry? And once they get home and the fake relationship is over, could a real one be left in its place?

Join top 10 bestseller Portia MacIntosh for a laugh-out-loud, enemies to lovers, fake relationship romantic comedy.

Purchase Link – https://mybook.to/enemiesloverssocial

Author Bio –

Portia MacIntosh is the bestselling author of over 20 romantic comedy novels. From disastrous dates to destination weddings, Portia’s romcoms are the perfect way to escape from day to day life, visiting
sunny beaches in the summer and snowy villages at Christmas time. Whether it’s southern Italy or the Yorkshire coast, Portia’s stories are the holiday you’re craving, conveniently packed in between the pages.

Formerly a journalist, Portia has left the city, swapping the music biz for the moors, to live the (not so) quiet life with her husband and her dog in Yorkshire.

Social Media Links –

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/portia.macintosh.3

Twitter https://twitter.com/PortiaMacIntosh

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

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

Bookbub profile: Portia MacIntosh Books – BookBub

Review-

Having previously read several of Portia’s earlier books (a quick search will reveal other reviews), I was eagerly anticipating another laugh out loud romantic comedy.

I particularly loved the Eden ‘twist’ in this one. The premise of Lara and Sonny being forced to act as a couple on a retreat at an unknown location piqued my interest straight away and the seemingly bizarre conditions added to the mix proved an excellent way to keep the storyline distinctive, even though it was apparent what was happening.

I loved the friendships that developed on the island, as well as the thawing of Lara and Sonny’s animosity towards one another.

This was a predictable storyline in many respects, but that in no way detracted from the enjoyment of reading it. I was pleasantly surprised by the ending and would love some kind of follow up to see where the adventure goes next.

This is another hit from Portia Macintosh. If you’re looking for a funny, easy read laced with a touch of romance, you won’t go wrong with this one!

With thanks to the author, Rachel at Random Resources and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to participate in the tour.

Further stops can be found here:

** Blog Tour ** The Faking Game- Portia Macintosh

I’m delighted to be one of today’s stops on the final day of the blog tour for ‘The Faking Game.’

After years of being everyone’s favourite couple, always up for a party and having fun wherever they go, things have fizzled out.

But when they realise they have a whole calendar of events and celebrations with friends and family coming up, Cara and Millsy can’t face letting them down.

So they decide to make a pact: just convince everyone they’re as madly in love as ever and get through the festivities without causing suspicion, and then deal with the break up in the new year.

How hard can it be…?

Swept up in the festive spirit, will Cara and Millsy fake it til they make it? Or will they realise they are meant to be after all…?

Purchase Link – https://mybook.to/TheFakingGamesocials

Author Bio –

Portia MacIntosh is the bestselling author of over 20 romantic comedy novels. From disastrous dates to destination weddings, Portia’s romcoms are the perfect way to escape from day to day life, visiting
sunny beaches in the summer and snowy villages at Christmas time. Whether it’s southern Italy or the Yorkshire coast, Portia’s stories are the holiday you’re craving, conveniently packed in between the pages.

Formerly a journalist, Portia has left the city, swapping the music biz for the moors, to live the (not so) quiet life with her husband and her dog in Yorkshire.

Social Media Links –

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/PortiaMacIntosh

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/portiamacintoshauthor/?hl=en

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

Bookbub profile: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/portia-macintosh

Review-

Having already reviewed three of Portia’s previous books (use the search bar to access them), I was looking forward to reading this one.

If you’re looking for an easy read, romantic comedy filled with humour and a ‘will they, won’t they’ storyline, then this is the perfect choice for you.

Add in a Christmas theme and the inevitable family strife and you’ve got a thoroughly enjoyable read which will keep you entertained throughout.

I loved the chemistry between Millsy and Cara and the various mishaps which seem to happen whenever they are together. You can’t help but feel for Cara as she tries to move on from their relationship despite still having intense feelings for her ex.

The author’s trademark humour is definitely a highlight too!

Highly recommended.

With thanks to the author, Rachel at Random Resources and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to participate in the tour.

Previous stops can be found here:

** Promo Post ** The Pumpkin Pact- Charlie Dean

I’m pleased to be taking part in today’s promotion for ‘The Pumpkin Pact.’

Welcome to The Pumpkin Patch at Pickle Grove.

Andi is worried that her relationship with Drew has become dull and boring. They never do anything exciting these days, in or out of the bedroom. So when a swoon-worthy stranger appears she is instantly swept off her feet.

When they unexpectedly meet again, they realise they have more in common than they thought possible so draw up a pact to spice up their lives! The plan they conjure up while working together at The Pumpkin Patch, to make their partners jealous, brings them closer than ever.

Andi plucks up the courage to finish with Drew but there are no signs of Andrew doing the same and she thinks she’s lost him forever.

With meddling exes, misunderstandings and miscommunication getting in the way, can The Pumpkin Pact bring them back together?

Purchase Link – https://amzn.eu/d/f8zin9z

Follow Charlie Dean on Twitter – https://twitter.com/CharlieADean

With thanks to the author and Rachel at Random Resources for the opportunity to participate in today’s promo.

** Blog Tour ** Was It Good For You?- Kathryn Freeman

I’m delighted to be one of today’s stops on the first day of the blog tour for ‘Was It Good For You?’

If you’re not a ten on Sophie’s spreadsheet, you’re never getting her between the bedsheets…

No aspect of Sophie’s life goes unrecorded in her Excel spreadsheets, so when she accidentally sends it to her entire contact list instead of just her best friend, Sophie has a lot of uncomfortable explaining to do.

First on the list? Dr Michael Adams. After a disastrous first date, Michael scored a ‘3’ on Sophie’s ‘love life’ tab, but when she shows up to apologise for sharing his result with the world, he issues an unexpected challenge: ten dates to prove that love can’t be calculated by an equation or contained by boxes on a spreadsheet.

Sophie isn’t someone who’s used to thinking outside the digital box, but there’s something about Michael that makes her want to take a chance…

Purchase Links

https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0BT4JKK93

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BT4JKK93

Author Bio –

A former pharmacist, I now write romantic comedies; books that bring a smile to the face, but also a lump to the throat. Mr Right Across the Street won the RNA Award for Romantic Comedy in 2022.

With a husband who asks every Valentine’s Day whether he has to buy a card (yes, he does), the romance is all in my head. Then again, his unstinting support of my career change proves love isn’t always about hearts and flowers – and heroes come in many disguises.

Social Media Links –

Website: http://kathrynfreeman.co.uk

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/KathrynFreeman1

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kathryn.freeman_author/

Review-

As this is the fifth novel I’ve read from Kathryn Freeman and I’ve never given less than four stars for reviews, I was optimistic that this new offering would be equally as enjoyable and I certainly wasn’t disappointed!

I loved the premise of this one; with Sophie’s obsession with her spreadsheet threatening to ruin any potential romance before it got started.

The development of both main characters through the series of ten dates was really cleverly done, with gradually revealed details serving to explain their behaviour and attitudes towards dating and other aspects of their lives.

As with any Kathryn Freeman book, there is plenty of comedy to go with the romance and I especially liked Michael’s dry wit and the humour in the text message exchanges.

The supporting cast of characters were depicted well, with Betty in particular being an absolute gem! I loved the scenes at the cricket too where a real sense of community and looking out for each other was conveyed.

Although it’s obvious from the start where the romantic storyline is heading, it’s refreshing to see how the characters discover more about themselves and each other along the way, rather than simply being a tale of opposites attract.

A perfect, romantic, easy summer read.

With thanks to the author, Rachel at Random Resources and One More Chapter for the opportunity to participate in the tour.

Further stops can be found here:

** Cover Reveal ** A Holiday Romance in Ferry Lane Market- Nicola May

I’m pleased today to be taking part in the cover reveal for ‘A Holiday Romance in Ferry Lane Market.’

When soap actor Sabrina Swift loses her way due to a public scandal, she packs up her life, heads to Cornwall and randomly finds herself running a Christmas gift shop in the quaint and quirky Ferry Lane Market.

Changing her looks and identity to keep her anonymity, the newcomer starts to make friends and enemies as she walks a frosty path in the established community.

And as rumours start circling that the outside market is going to be shut down, Sabrina is not only ensconced in an unexpected love triangle but is also faced with a difficult decision that could alter both her life and those of the inhabitants of Hartmouth forever.

Charming characters and a beautifully written setting make for a delightful and uplifting tale that explores themes of self-discovery, belonging and the importance of following your heart. 

Pre-order Links

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Holiday-Romance-Ferry-Lane-Market-ebook/dp/B0CC342XY6

https://www.amazon.com/Holiday-Romance-Ferry-Lane-Market-ebook/dp/B0CC342XY6

Author Bio –

Nicola May is a rom-com superstar. She is the author of sixteen romantic comedies, all of which have appeared in the Kindle bestseller charts. Two of them won awards at the Festival of Romance, and another was named ebook of the week in The Sun. The Corner Shop in Cockleberry Bay became the best-selling Kindle book in the UK, across all genres, in January 2019, and was Amazon’s third-bestselling novel in that year.

Social Media Links –

www.nicolamay.com

W: www.nicolamay.com

Nicola May – Home | Facebook

i: https://www.instagram.com/author_nicola/

And so to the reveal…

I love the look and sound of this one!

With thanks to the author and Rachel at Random Resources for the opportunity to participate in the cover reveal.

** Blog Tour ** Long Time No Sea- Portia Macintosh

I’m happy to be one of today’s stops on the blog tour for “Long Time No Sea.’

There’s trouble in paradise…

Moving home in her 30s was not the life plan Jas had in mind. So when her best friend gets in touch to say she’s arranging a long overdue reunion with their high school friends, Jas is very much up for the escape. Oh, and it’s all expenses paid to Italy – so that’s a bonus!

But while being whisked away to the beautiful Italian coast may seem idyllic, Jas has to come face to face with not only her ex-boyfriend, but the one that got away too!

It’s a week of sun, sea and unravelling secrets, and as the love triangle from the past starts to develop once again, this trip is not panning out exactly as Jas imagines…

Should the past be left where it is, or could there be a second chance at love on the horizon..?

Join top 10 bestseller Portia MacIntosh for a sun-drenched, laugh-out-loud love triangle romantic comedy!

Purchase Link – https://mybook.to/longtimenoseasocial

Author Bio –

Portia MacIntosh is the bestselling author of over 20 romantic comedy novels. From disastrous dates to destination weddings, Portia’s romcoms are the perfect way to escape from day to day life, visiting
sunny beaches in the summer and snowy villages at Christmas time.

Whether it’s southern Italy or the Yorkshire coast, Portia’s stories are the holiday you’re craving, conveniently packed in between the pages.
Formerly a journalist, Portia has left the city, swapping the music biz for the moors, to live the (not so) quiet life with her husband and her dog in Yorkshire.

Social Media Links –

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

Twitter https://twitter.com/PortiaMacIntosh

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

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

Review-

This is a laugh-out-loud romantic comedy which is perfect for summer reading at the beach or by the pool.

I loved the dynamics between the characters and it was interesting to read the chapters from the past which gradually revealed what had happened which meant they had lost touch with each other.

The differing personalities of each character also helps to keep the plot pacy as well as the ‘will they, won’t they’ relationship between Jas and Cam.

A thoroughly enjoyable read.

With thanks to the author, Rachel at Random Resources and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to participate in the tour.

Further stops can be found here:

** Blog Tour ** Sophie’s Summer Kiss- Debbie Viggiano

I’m really pleased to be one of today’s stops on the blog tour for ‘Sophie’s Summer Kiss.’

Sophie Fairfax knows that you don’t get to fifty without collecting some emotional bruises along the way. Having left the School of Knocks with top marks, she’s not just older, she’s wiser.

So, when boyfriend George proposes, Sophie says yes. After all, George is nothing like her charming but unfaithful ex, Teddy. Okay, George is a little boring – his favourite colour is grey – and there’s also the small matter of him suggesting Sophie is too old for a bikini and should buy a one-piece for their honeymoon on the Amalfi Coast, but so what?

When Sophie uploads a pic of her engagement ring to Instagram, she expects attention, but not in the form of Thomas Tabby Cat – a fake account – warning she’s betrothed to a cheater.

Rocked, Sophie suffers flashbacks to life with Teddy. She can’t go through that again. Bestie Sue suggests it’s the work of a jealous troll, but Sophie is rattled. Is there a love triangle and, if so, might it become a wrecktangle?

Sophie reckons there’s a way to find out. Sometimes, when searching for an enemy, you need to check your list of friends….

Purchase Links

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Sophies-Summer-Kiss-gorgeous-romantic-ebook/dp/B0C1DMJ14B/

https://www.amazon.com/Sophies-Summer-Kiss-gorgeous-romantic-ebook/dp/B0C1DMJ14B/

Author Bio –

Prior to turning her attention to writing, Debbie Viggiano was, for more years than she cares to remember, a legal secretary. She lives with her Italian husband, a rescued pooch from Crete, and a very disgruntled cat.

Occasionally her adult children return home bringing her much joy… apart from when they want to raid the fridge or eat her secret stash of chocolate.

Tweet @DebbieViggiano or follow her on Facebook!

Social Media Links –

TWITTER: @DebbieViggiano

FACEBOOK: http://www.facebook.com/debbie.viggiano.5/

INSTAGRAM: debbieviggiano

WEBSITE: http://www.debbieviggiano.co.uk

Review-

This is a gem of a summer romance novel!

The blurb actually only reveals the first part of the plot, so be prepared to buckle up for the ride as Sophie quickly learns that things aren’t always as they seem and finds herself on a new adventure on the stunning Amalfi coast.

I found myself readily absorbed in this book from the outset and soon recognised snippets about characters and places in another of the author’s books which I had read previously, ‘Debbie’s Winter Gift’.

Highlights are the humour which is peppered throughout, from the sarcastic, to the contemporary and even the slightly salacious on occasion! Also, the descriptions of places within the Amalfi region, some of which I’ve visited and others which I could picture from the vivid depictions. I especially liked visualising the roof terrace and the room balcony gardens with their exquisite views.

Similarly, the references to local delicacies were a real treat and had me wishing for a cool Limoncello or Aperol Spritz to savour as I read.

Characterisation is strong throughout, with each bringing their own unique traits. I loved the parallel of the small town gossip in both locations too.

Sophie’s inner voice also features heavily throughout and, while at times it definitely added to the plot and humour, I did find it a bit too much in some chapters and just wanted to read more of the story.

I won’t mention too much about Luca as he appears once Sophie arrives in Italy, but I will say I loved his conversation at the end and the way the author weaves in the idea of the right connection at the right time.

It was interesting to note that much of the story materialised from the author’s own trip to the Amalfi coast on a second honeymoon. This certainly comes across in the authenticity of the setting.

A delicious bit of escapism and perfect for reading in the summer sunshine with a limoncello to hand!

With thanks to the author and Rachel at Random Resources for the opportunity to participate in the tour.

Further stops can be found here:

** Blog Tour ** An (Un) Romantic Comedy- Phoebe MacLeod

I’m delighted to be one of today’s stops on the blog tour for ‘An UnRomantic Comedy.’

An Un Romantic Comedy

The course of true love never did run smooth, but with Phoebe MacLeod it always gets a chance.

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

The black sheep is coming home for her sister’s wedding.
One week with the whole family in one house.
What could possibly go wrong?

Poppy is a therapist. You’d think her parents would be proud. But Poppy is the type of therapist that makes her mother cringe – she helps people with their, ahem, bedroom problems…

Normally Poppy deals with her difficult family – two parents, one brother, a couple sisters and an assortment of nieces and nephews – by keeping a county or two between her and them. But with her little sister about to get married there’s no avoiding the week-long family holiday in Cornwall.

The trip was always going to be a catastrophe, but Poppy never imagined how much her family needed her professional skills…

Nor did she expect to meet a sexy surfer on what was supposed to be the most unromantic holiday ever.

Can a nightmare holiday lead to the love of a lifetime?

Purchase Link – https://amzn.to/3VLZQwa

Author Bio –

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

Social Media Links –

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/macleod_phoebe

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phoebemacleod21/

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

Bookbub profile: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/phoebe-macleod

Review-

This book certainly lives up to its’ title! Although there is a smattering of romance, it is the comedy element that takes centre stage.

Taking what could potentially be a tricky main theme, namely Poppy’s career as a sex therapist, author Phoebe MacLeod weaves this deftly throughout the storyline, as Poppy is forced to draw on her expertise to support various members of her family.

This is more a tale of family dynamics and it is interesting to read the different scenarios as they play out and how Poppy handles each one in turn.

The writing style makes this an easy read and I often found myself grinning or chuckling at the humour. Poppy is a strong character and I admired the way she approached things.

One of my favourite moments was the conversation between Poppy and her mother when it came to light exactly what she thought her daughter’s job entailed, although it was equally an endearing episode as it seemed to indicate a breakthrough in their otherwise fractious relationship.

This is the first book I’ve read from this author, but I’ll definitely be adding her to my list for future releases. Recommended!

With thanks to the author, Rachel at Random Resources and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to participate in the tour.

Further stops can be found here: