Christmas Under a Cranberry Sky by Holly Martin

Christmas Under a Cranberry Sky by Holly Martin
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This year spend a wonderful Christmas on Juniper Island, where love can melt even the iciest of hearts…

Piper Chesterfield lives a glamorous life travelling the world and reviewing the finest hotels. She calls nowhere home, she works alone and that’s how she likes it. For long ago Piper decided that to protect her heart she should lock it away.

So when Piper’s next assignment brings her to the newly opened Stardust Lake Hotel for the festive season, the last person she expects to face is Gabe Whitaker, the man who broke her heart so completely she could never love again.

But Piper isn’t the only one who has been frozen in time by heartbreak. Gabe hasn’t forgotten the golden-eyed girl who disappeared from his world without a trace.

Now fate has reunited them on Juniper island, can the magic of Christmas heal old wounds? And can this enchanting town be the one place Piper can finally call home?

Curl up with this gorgeously romantic tale and let the glistening snow and the roaring fires of Stardust Lake Hotel get you in the festive spirit this Christmas.


Nothing separates this Christmas chic lit novel from any other for me. Lots of atmosphere, the place sounded amazing and the main character Pip was likeable but Gabe her ex boyfriend was a bit of a whiny character, declaring his undying love for her one minute and throwing a hissy fit the next. Gabe came over as whiny and self absorbed, wimpy and not prepared to put aside his feelings for her, he was quite childish and immature. Not sure I’d want someone like that but Pip did - each to his own.

Overly long and somewhat repetitive dialogue left this a boring read once they’d got back together again there was really no where else for this story to go.

Can only give this 3 stars - too schmultzy and lacked drama, for me a boring read.

I would like to thank the publisher for sending this in exchange for an honest review.

A Winter Kiss on Rochester Mews by Annie Darling

A Winter Kiss on Rochester Mews by Annie Darling
My rating: 4 of 5 stars


But on Rochester Mews, two unlikely lovebirds are struggling to find their festive cheer.

Star baker Mattie has hated Christmas ever since she had her heart broken on Christmas Eve. The only thing she hates more is the insufferable Tom, who has rubbed her up the wrong way since she started running the tearoom next door to his bookshop. So when Mattie and Tom are left in charge in the frantic festive days before Christmas, it might be cold outside but things are sure to heat up.

Can a bookshop full of romantic novels, a life-sized reindeer and a mistletoe kissing booth persuade two scrooges to fall in love with Christmas… and each other?

Romantic heart-warming rom-coms don't come a lot better than this one. Funny, poignant, good likeable characters and a real feel good factor at the end. Mattie Smith a successful patisserie chef has been running the café in London since she left Paris when her heart was broken at Christmas. She hates Christmas and the endless season of good will, she has no time for men in her life and always wears depressing black outfits. Next comes Tom, and academic who has worked in the bookshop part of the business called 'Happy Ever After'. Tom appears to be as dull as dishwater, dresses much to old for his age and is aloof and stand offish.

When the flat above the premises becomes vacant Mattie and Tom find themselves flatmates. The novel expands the personalities of both these characters and the sub characters who are just as interesting but all together they work well in this story. Through various trials and tribulations we get our happy every after ending.

It's all you could want from a romantic rom-com and is well written although at times a little frustrating as is always the case with these novels. If you want to have a romantic escapist afternoon or two this is just the medicine you need. Perfect festive reading with plenty of comic moments and a satisfying conclusion. 4 stars

I would like to thank the publisher for sending this in exchange for an honest review.

The Winter Wedding by Abby Clements

The Winter Wedding by Abby Clements
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Hazel never set out to be a wedding planner. She was just helping her stressed sister Lila with cakes and décor for her big day. But when Lila and Ollie's summer ceremony is a runaway success, with guests raving about the food and styling at the pretty venue, word about Hazel's expertise soon spreads.

But Hazel's clients expect the very best - she's promised lawyers Gemma and Eliot a snow-covered castle in the Scottish Highlands, and laidback couple Josh and Sarah a bohemian beach wedding in a Caribbean paradise. But as weather, in-laws and wilful brides conspire against her, can Hazel get two very different couples to walk up two very different aisles to say 'I do'?

​Having taken on planning her sisters wedding when the original wedding planner cancelled, Hazel finds herself with a success on her hands. Many guests at the wedding congratulate her on an excellent job and through this she manages to get a couple more bookings.

Hazels full time job is a set designer but she is constantly passed over and her ideas stolen by others for their own gain. She is nervous about organising her sister Lila's wedding but approaches it like set design and soon finds she has a flair for it. Tasked to organise a Scottish Highlands wedding complete with a snow covered castle and a Caribbean beach wedding Hazel at times thinks she has taken on more than she can handle. Add bridezillas and unpredictable weather along with a confusing love life and you have a recipe for a pleasant chic lit novel.

Good balanced rounded characters if somewhat flawed gave this a realistic feel and a little dose of humour kept it going. Perfect for holiday reading or round the fire at Christmas - feel good factor novel. 4 stars

I would like to thank the publisher for sending this in exchange for an honest review.

Christmas Secrets in Snowflake Cove by Emily Harvale

Christmas is a time for family and friends, miracles and magic, falling snow and roaring fires, fun, laughter and festive feasts. In Snowflake Cove, it’s also a time for secrets to be revealed…

Evie Starr is hoping for more than a sprinkling of magic this Christmas. The family-run Snowflake Inn is virtually empty and the Starr’s financial future isn’t looking bright. But Evie’s gran, Jessie has a secret that might help.

​

Enigmatic, Zachary Thorn is every woman’s dream. He’s also ex-SAS, so his secrets are classified. The Christmas Special of his feel-good, TV show is set in Michaelmas Bay – until a phone call means he’s spending Christmas in nearby Snowflake Cove.

Evie’s best friend, Juniper thinks boyfriend Darren has a secret. Evie knows he does. And Evie’s niece, Raven is hiding feelings for Juniper’s brother – who has a secret crush of his own.

But the biggest secret in Snowflake Cove is the identity of Raven’s dad.

With snow falling thick and fast and secrets being revealed one after another, will everyone be snuggling up by the fire on Christmas Eve, or are some secrets best kept hidden…?

Christmas Secrets in Snowflake Cove by Emily Harvale
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Fantastic, a brand new series for Christmas!

This story isn't too long, but has a lot of characters in it and at times I did feel a little confused, however if you invest some time in it at the beginning then you won't need to worry as you will quickly be transported to Snowflake Inn.

This story has a few twists and turns that will keep you guessing and it will definitely get you into the holiday mood.

This is a book I will be recommending to others this Christmas as you will not be disappointed with it.

I would like to thank the author for sending this in exchange for an honest review.

Mistletoe on 34th Street by Lisa Dickenson

Mistletoe on 34th Street by Lisa Dickenson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Olivia has never experienced a snow-covered, 'traditional' Christmas before. Having grown up in a family that chose winter sun over decking the halls, she's not sure what all the fuss is about. So when she and her colleagues are stranded in New York after a work trip, Olivia is perfectly happy spending the holiday season in the Big Apple.

Jon, Olivia's friend, on the other hand is desperate to get home in time for his big family get-together. Nevertheless, determined to make the best out of the situation, he sets out to show Olivia how enchanting Christmas in New York can be. And when handsome New Yorker Elijah is added to the mix, could the magic of the season finally be working its charm on Olivia? As 25 December draws closer, Olivia suddenly finds herself with a decision to make: who does she really want to kiss under the mistletoe this Christmas?


I love Lisa Dickenson's novels, they are lighthearted and have a wonderful feel to them. When I knew she was releasing a new Christmas book, I couldn't wait to get started.

Right from the beginning Lisa has a way of drawing you into the book. You feel like the characters are old friends and you are joining them on a journey throughout. This book is no different to her others. Olivia is a bit of a scrooge when it comes to Christmas, she blames this on the fact she has never really had a traditional one, as her family prefer to enjoy their Christmas' soaking up the sun. Olivia welcomes the time off from work and loves Christmas for that reason but enjoys spending some time alone.

This year, the same as many others she needs to head to New York for a conference, she needs to try and gain interest in the company from across the pond to help it go international. Her boss has broken her leg so can't fly so puts Olivia in charge of the operation and is counting on her to get the company off the ground out there.

While she and her colleagues are out there, the U.K seems to have been hit by a freak snow storm and the snow doesn't seem like it is getting any lighter, due to this the airports are closed and there is on way of them getting back any time soon.

There are a few of Olivia's colleagues with her and although they have a part in the story most of them you know little about. To be honest Abigail I found incredibly annoying and immature, she spent the entire time going on about how she wouldn't be back in time to see her boyfriend. Towards the end I was actually growing tired of her.

Overall I loved this book, just as I have done with all Lisa's others and this will be a firm favourite on my shelf. I really liked the mix of work and pleasure there was in this story and there was quite a bit of humour. I was actually quite surprised it was quite emotional towards the end of the book. I rarely feel things like that in books but it did bring a tear to my eye when they were leaving to go to the airport.

This has to be the perfect Christmas read, snow, New York and Christmas all in one book. From previously visiting New York I was able to relate to places they were in the book and really visulise them which I thought made the book even realer for me.

Lisa Dickenson has really done it again with this cracking read. She is firmly one of my favourite authors, whose books I look forward to getting. I only wish they lasted a bit longer! Reading them in one sitting is a complete fail!

I would like to thank the publisher for sending this in exchange for an honest review. 

The Christmas Surprise by Jenny Colgan

The Christmas Surprise by Jenny Colgan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars



Rosie Hopkins, newly engaged, is looking forward to an exciting year in the little sweetshop she owns and runs. But when fate strikes Rosie and her boyfriend, Stephen, a terrible blow, threatening everything they hold dear, it's going to take all their strength and the support of their families and their Lipton friends to hold them together.

After all, don't they say it takes a village to raise a child?

Jenny Colgan has become a favourite for me; you know what you are going to get with her, a good storyline, good characters and a feel good factor and this novel lived up to all of those. If you have not read the others in the series it is of little importance as this could easily stand alone and Jenny does give a little update of where we are with Rosie at the start so it's easy to pick up where the previous novel left off.


There's no point in my retelling what happens and I'm not into 'spoilers' although it's not difficult to guess what will happen.


Yes it was predictable and easy to guess what was going to happen but somehow it didn't really spoil the book because the characters are so well developed and 'familiar' that the reader takes the journey with them confident that everything will always work out OK. It is a happy ever after kind of book but it is so charming, so full of descriptive narrative and realistic dialogue that you just want it all to work out for them.


All the characters from previous books are here, Lilian, Tina, the relationship between Rosie and Stephen and of course his haughty snobby mother and all the problems that come along with all the characters. We meet Pamela Stephen's sister and learn another aspect of this dysfunctional family and their dynamics which brings a welcome slant on this otherwise predictable novel.


I love Jenny Colgan's writing, in many ways she reminds me of the successful Sophie Kinsella in that she can laugh at and with her characters in such an entertaining way that reading her novels is so easy.


Breezed through this book, thoroughly enjoyable and although it was not entirely about Christmas it was a good seasonal read - definitely worth a 4 star rating.


I would like to thank the publisher for sending this in exchange for an honest review.

An East End Christmas by Elizabeth Waite

An East End Christmas by Elizabeth Waite
My rating: 1 of 5 stars



Carla Scofield has looked after her family since she was a teenager but it's never been a bother because there isn't anything she wouldn't do for those closest to her. Warm, friendly, and with the ability to make everyone around her laugh, she carries her burden proudly.

As the years roll past, Carla sees life around her change dramatically. Wartime brings new challenges and a new job for Carla in a sewing factory, and she shines. It also brings with it love and Carla has a chance at real happiness - but not everyone is rooting for her. With Christmas ahead of her, and her sights set firmly on love and the future, will she be too distracted to sense the danger before it's too late?


This book was unsolicited and not a book that I knew I would enjoy reading so I passed to it my mum who loves historical fiction.

Disappointed is how I felt after reading this novel. I enjoy novels of all genres so was not put off by the historical element attached to this one, however it just didn't live up to expectations. It felt as if the author was writing a synopsis of a book, almost like diary entries and the characters were flat and empty.


The story hinges around WWII and in particular Carla the main East End character. I come from London a Cockney myself and I was therefore intrigued to read this novel, hoping and expecting to feel the warmth and humour that East Enders showed during the war years - I didn't get that feeling.


The story basically is that Carla finds work in a factory not far from where she lives and when they relocate to Southampton she along with other workers are offered the opportunity of moving with the factory which means she has to relocate her home and leave her family. She basically grows up during this period, meets and falls in love with a fellow worker, has some mishaps along the way (won't put any spoilers in although really there are few) and eventually makes good in Southampton. War breaks out and we get some descriptive passages about lack of food and rationing, bombing in London but not much else. The characters were so skimpy that I really didn't have much reason to care what happened to them during the Blitz. The story was like a snapshot in a historical overview of the East End - she missed a great opportunity to showcase the warmth and humour of the people through this traumatic period in time.


As I said, I didn't connect emotionally with Carla, I felt she had no real substance or depth and I couldn't really warm to her. None of the characters really stood out for me, grand dad was looking promising but the writer kills him off too quickly before he has made enough of an impression.


The story was very predictable with no unexpected twists and nothing to set it apart from numerous other novels of this genre - a passable love story. Everything appeared to be rushed we wizz from 1943 to surrender in 1945 of the Germans with no mention of what Carla and her friends are up to. When one co worker Paul Townsend goes missing from work we don't know how long he's been missing for 'quite a while' according to the writer. It seems silly that someone seemingly so important to Carla could be gone without her asking questions before she does!


As I say, predictable, disappointing, just not fleshed out enough in my opinion to be memorable. I found it difficult to keep going with this one to the end - it was just too boring for me and therefore I can only give this 1 star.

I would like to thank the publisher for sending this in exchange for an honest review.

Christmas Fireside Stories - Margaret Dickinson

Christmas Fireside Stories: A collection of heart-warming Christmas short stories from six bestselling authors by Margaret Dickinson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Snuggle up by the fire with this festive collection of Christmas short stories from six bestselling authors . . .

Christmas at Briar Farm by Diane Allen

Christmas preparations are in full swing at Briar farm as the Bainbridge family get ready for a traditional 1960s Christmas - with all the trimmings.

Kate's Miracle by Rita Bradshaw

It's Christmas 1919 in the north of England and things are looking bleak for Kate and her two small children. That is until Kate discovers the strength of friendship and community at Christmas time . . .

The Gift by Margaret Dickinson

Christmas Eve, 1914. A moment of hope unites soldiers on both sides of the trenches as the spirit of Christmas reaches those divided by war, and an act of generosity changes one man's life forever.

Christmas at Thalstead Halt by Annie Murray

The station master at Thalstead Halt has the unexpected task of sheltering snow bound passengers, in the run up to Christmas 1886. And that's not the only unexpected occurrence at Thalstead Halt . . .

You'll Never Know Just How Much I Love You by Pam Weaver

Christmas Eve, 1943. The post office at Goring-on-Sea is up against bitter winter weather but nothing can stop an emergency delivery, or the power of true love at Christmas time.

A Wounded Christmas by Mary Wood

Can friendship, humour and a Boxing Day party help to ease the heartaches of 1942? A heart-warming story featuring characters from the saga novel Proud of You.

This collection includes delicious Christmas recipes recommended by the authors



I know it's February, well actually March, but even though these are essentially Christmas stories this book can be read any time of the year and give you a real warm glow. Written by 6 authors all the stories have a Christmas theme running through them, perfect for snuggling down in your duvet on a cold winters' night. All the stories are well written and worth the read, I particularly liked The Gift by Margaret Dickinson and A Wounded Christmas by Mary Wood; the first is about 1914 soldiers in the trenches and how one act of kindness from a German soldier saves the life of a British soldier. Really very poignant and relevant to the 100 year anniversary which has recently been celebrated.

The second is about Christmas celebrations during the 2nd World war in 1942 with a party on Boxing day that is organised in a hospital for wounded officers and staff. For a short time it allows everyone to forget the horrors of war, loved ones lost and facing an unsure future and gives everyone a few hours of fun. Quite a different slant on war than the first story but none the less poignant in its' own right showing the effects of those in the trenches, those that came home wounded and those that didn't come home at all and how lives were changed forever.

All the stories in this book manage to make you feel hopeful at the end of them, either in the spirit of heroism, friendship or hope for the future. A book that really does give you a warm glow after reading and may introduce you to authors you have not read before. A good 4 stars for this collection which has been thoughtfully put together so that each story compliments the others.

I would like to thank the publisher for sending me this in exchange for an honest review.

The Gift - Karli Perrin

The Gift by Karli Perrin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

It was the weekend before Christmas and the whole world was on countdown.
Except for me.
Last Christmas, I met a boy.
Last Christmas, we made a pact.
Christmas would never be the same.
Life would never be the same...

This is an incredibly short story, that I read in about 20 minutes, so perfect for a short lunchtime break or commute.

This is Imogen and Blake, they meet on the run up to Christmas in an unusual situation and take a shine to each other.

My only negative of this short story is the reference to most of the dialogue between the two characters being in code. I felt this point was laboured quite a lot.

The description of Blake makes you want your own Blake this Christmas.

This short story is flirty and fun. This is the first time I have read a story by Perrin, however on the strength if this I would read others of her books.

This is currently free on Amazon and it is a great free find. If you have not downloaded this yet, go grab yourself a copy!

A New York Christmas by Melissa Hill

A New York Christmas by Melissa Hill
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

When Maddie decides to visit Manhattan in December, hoping that a classic New York Christmas experience might help heal her broken heart, she wonders if an encounter with a handsome stranger might turn out to be the perfect Christmas gift.



I have really enjoyed reading novellas this year, it has allowed me to dip my toes into Christmas, in between other stories.

I first discovered Hill last year when I read A gift to remember and I love it. This story I thought I would equally love as it was set abroad and felt like a really great romance.

This story is about Maddie, she goes to New York to visit her for Christmas. Unfortunately when she gets there Sarah her friend cannot spend as much time as she had hoped she would be able to with her. Maddie is left to explore the Big Apple on her own.

While she is exploring, she meets a man, Blake, he seems perfect almost too perfect.

I enjoyed the majority of the story, however in places it felt very rushed. I was looking forward to the description of Blake and Maddies date as the description was great leading up to it. But in a few lines the date was over and I felt a bit let down by the lack of description given.

The story also seemed a little believable, something happens that I would have thought most people would just shrug off and not worry about, but Maddie gets really wound up about it.

Overall it was an ok story, I thought it would be much better if it had been longer.

on strike fo Christmas - Sheila Roberts

On Strike for Christmas by Sheila Roberts
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

At Christmas time, it seems as though a woman's work is never done. Trimming the tree, mailing the cards, schlepping to the mall, the endless wrapping - bah humbug! So this year, Joy and Laura and the rest of their knitting group decide to go on strike. If their husbands and families want a nice holiday filled with parties, decorations, and presents - well, they'll just have to do it themselves.

The boycott soon takes on a life of its own when a reporter picks up the story and more women join in. But as Christmas Day approaches, Joy, Laura, and their husbands confront larger issues in their marriages and discover that a little holiday magic is exactly what they need to come together.

Not the greatest of books for me; it gambled on the fact that the readers really would believe that intelligent men and women could not sort out their differences without resorting to such drastic measures as females going on strike for Christmas until their partners committed to taking an active part in all the preparations and extra work that it presented for the women.

It was extremely predictable although amusing in parts, it did become tedious and I found I really got to the point where I didn't care about the Stitch 'n Bitch knitting club and their crusade to try and get their unappreciative other halves more involved in the festive season. It was so twee, the town called 'Holly' the main characters names 'Joy' and her Scrooge like husband Bob who she refers to as 'Bob Humbug' were all a bit too contrived for me. It could not have possibly been written for the UK market - I can't imagine this situation happening in the UK. I would think if women were foolish enough to think going on strike at Christmas in the UK would have the same effect/happy endings as this American novel had they simply would not be rewarded with partners who 'soldiered on' determined to prove they could cope they'd more than likely be told to stop being so childish and selfish which is what I wanted to tell these silly Stitch 'n Bitch club members.

In the real world these things don't happen and although novels are escapism this really is such a silly nonsense novel that it left me feeling no enjoyment at having read it just annoyance that the writer could think the reader wants or needs so little from a book. Most of the so called conflicts were not conflicts, they would have easily been solved by talking the situation through with their partners. Most men do take situations for granted but are not completely insensitive and once reminded that the partnership is all about sharing and give and take they do come through. Shelia Roberts depiction of the men in the novel was very Victorian and selfish, not complimentary at all and her depiction of women equally fell short of the mark.

Women these days are not long suffering, most of us enjoy the whole Christmas thing and although it is extra work we really wouldn't want our other halves to do it anyway and I'm sure most men are more than happy to help given the chance. The fact is most women would rather their other halves didn't help and the women in this novel really didn't want the men to do it either they just wanted to be given more credit and wanted their husbands to pay more attention to them - a bit shallow really.

As you can see I didn't gel with this book - Shelia Roberts as a writer is better than this let's hope her next one is more worthy of her writing skills.

Sorry only a 2 from me and that was for the rare moments of humour.

I would like to thank the publisher for sending me this copy in exchange for an honest review.

The Snow Globe - Sheila Roberts

The Snow Globe by Sheila Roberts
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Discover an unforgettable holiday treasure in Sheila Roberts' heartwarming tale of love and laughter, magic and miracles, friendship and coming home . . .

When Kiley Gray discovers an enchanting snow globe in an antique shop, she has no idea how much her life is about to change. For years, the snow globe has passed from generation to generation, somehow always landing in the hands of a person in special need of a Christmas miracle.

Kiley could use a miracle herself. This year, all she wants for Christmas is someone to love. A hopeful shake leads her on an adventure that makes a believer out of her. When Kiley shares the story of the snow globe with her best friends-two women with problems of their own-they don't believe it. But they're about to discover that at Christmastime, sometimes the impossible becomes possible and miracles really do come true.

Perfect for fans of Jill Mansell, Marie Force and Nora Roberts, this is a gentle, romantic Christmas story that's sure to capture your heart and leave you with a smile

Roberts' charming story set in the Seattle area offers hope, comfort, and a second chance for those who believe, and a nudge to change the minds of those who don't.




I was offered this book to read for a blog tour, a Christmay book? I jumped at the chance to read it. From the blurb, this sounded like just my type of read, magical and set at Christmas, that was all I needed to know, I was hooked from the beginning.

This story is about an antique snow globe that is passed from person to person and changed their lives.

I loved the first story who's character was Kiley. I really got into this and enjoyed every minute of her story. To be honest although Suzanne and Allison were introduced as her friends, and then as main characters, I did expect to revisit Kileys story. This didn't happen and I felt a little let down.

Suzanne, for me was not a very likable character, after reAlly warming to Kiley, I found this a struggle yo continue with the story. I did for the main reason I thought we may return to Kiley.

Allison is the final character we follow in the story, she misses her grandmother dearly who passed away the following year.

I did enjoy the story, I felt like the story was actually a lot longer than it was, this could have been down to the fact there were three stories in it.

I felt that Kileys story was the strongest and I would have enjoyed to have read a lot more of her story than the others.

Overall the story was ok, it was Christmay and you could read it. Comfortably in an afternoon. I would like to thank the publisher for sending this in exchange for an honest review.

Secret Santa by Scarlett Bailey

Secret Santa by Scarlett Bailey
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A self-confessed Christmas queen, Sue Montaigne prides herself on organising the annual nativity pageant in her small Cornish village of Poldore.

But this year, what with having to deal with the repairs on Castle House after it was wrecked by a terrible storm, training a new – and frankly flighty – Virgin Mary and managing a Joseph who is allergic to sheep, she is distinctly lacking a little bit of ‘me time’.

And then there are the auditions for the new Santa. But nothing prepares her for the beautiful man who turns up, a twinkle in his eye and a promise to make her Christmas dreams come true…

I absolutely loved 'Just for Christmas' and 'Two weddings and a baby' last year, so when I heard Scarlett Bailey was back with Secret Santa also set in Poldore, I needed to read it.

This story centres around Sue, Sue inherited a large castle in the village, that had been passed down to her by her ancestors. She has got big financial problems and some with her husband. Sue is really in the heart of the community, she decides to really throw herself into the festivities this year, things are not plain sailing for her, especially when the long running Santa pulls out this year. Sue only has a few days to try and get a new Santa in time for Christmas!

There is a new visitor in the village this year, a famous actor, who Sue has taken a shine to. (Actually I think we all did!)

Although the story is set with the run up to Christmas, there are many issues in it that you can almost be forgiven for forgetting when it is set. A major them in this novella is the break down of Sue' s marriage and the effect she feels this will have on her children. Money worries and the stress this can cause is also a big theme.

I love the mysterious Nick and how his character can really change the dynamics and feelings of the story.

I really loved this short story and has become one of my favourites I have read so far. I am so glad I discovered Scarlett Bailey last year and I hope we will be getting more instalments from Poldore in the future.

I would like to thank the publisher for sending this in exchange for an honest review.

The Great Christmas Knit Off - Alexandra Brown

The Great Christmas Knit Off by Alexandra Brown
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The perfect seasonal tale of how laughter, friends and wacky Christmas jumpers can mend a broken heart. For fans of Trisha Ashley and Jenny Colgan.

Heartbroken after being jilted at the altar, Sybil has been saved from despair by her knitting obsession and now her home is filled to bursting with tea cosies, bobble hats, and jumpers. But, after discovering that she may have perpetrated the cock-up of the century at work, Sybil decides to make a hasty exit and, just weeks before Christmas, runs away to the picturesque village of Tindledale.

There, Sybil discovers Hettie’s House of Haberdashery, an emporium dedicated to the world of knitting and needle craft. But Hettie, the outspoken octogenarian owner, is struggling and now the shop is due for closure. And when Hettie decides that Sybil’s wonderfully wacky Christmas jumpers are just the thing to add a bit of excitement to her window display, something miraculous starts to happen…



This is the first book I have ever read by Alexandra Brown, I knew she was very popular but other than thank I had no idea what to expect.

First thing I must say is that her ability to write about the setting and make the reader fall in love with it was incredible. I felt like I was in Tindledale with the characters and actually wished I was. She made the setting sound wonderful with it being welcoming and warm.

I loved the community feel about the book. Living in a town, I don't have that, you are unusual normally if you know the person who lives next door to you. Where as in Tindledale neighbours are friends and rally round to help each other. I loved that everyone tried to help Hetti, people she didn't even think would care did and this is what made all the characters really likable.

Sybil has a good job in the city, her husband to be however ran off with her sister and she has made a huge mistake at work involving a lot of money and is going to cost the tax payer thousands. she needs to get away and somewhere far. She has some friends who own the pub in a little village called Tindledale. They are always saying she must come and visit. The fact that she can't get hold of her won't matter, she will love to see her. So Sybil jumps on the train and heads off.

It doesn't take Sybil long to fall in love with Tindledale. Everything is so warm and welcoming there, well minus the power cut when she arrives and the lack of her friend there... she gets offered a room at a local B&B. The owner is so wonderful, takes the time to listen to Sybil and helps her find her was around. He really takes an interest in her and wants to help her out.

I hear that this is the first in a series of Tindledale and I would be interested in reading others. This was a lovely heartwarming tale. I would also like to read about Tindledale in the summer as I think the setting would be just as beautiful.

For me this was a different type of Christmas read, but one I enjoyed.

I would like to thank the publisher for sending this in exchange for an honest review.

It must have been the Mistletoe - Judy Astley Blog Tour

Welcome to The Book Corner for the final stop on Judy Astley's tour. I have got a review for you today. 

It Must Have Been the Mistletoe by Judy Astley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Thea’s parents decide to host a big family Christmas in a house by the sea… even though they are, in fact, about to split up. Thea herself is newly single - her sister and brother are both settled, with children, homes and a future. But Thea’s boyfriend has ditched her in favour of his pedigree dogs, and Thea can’t decide whether or not she minds.

There will be copious food and drink, holly and mistletoe, lots of bracing walks and a wintry barbecue on the beach. If it seems an odd way to celebrate the final break-up of a marriage and the Moving On to new partners, no- one is saying so. But then no-one had anticipated that the new partners might actually turn up to complicate the sleeping arrangements.

As Cornwall experiences the biggest snowstorm in living memory, the festive atmosphere comes under some strain. Will Thea manage to find some happiness for herself? Will the mistletoe work its magic on them all?





I was really excited to be able to be part of Judy Asltey's blog tour for this wonderful Christmas book.

This has been one of the first Christmas books I have read this year and it really got me into the festive mood, I didn't even mind if it was only October when I was reading it!

This story is about Thea and her family; they are staying in Cornwall for the Christmas period and I could imagine myself there. This for me had a personal touch to it, when I was growing up I spend a lot of time down in Cornwall as my grandparents loved there. We went for summers and Christmas's some year. I must admit that was my favourite time of year to visit. Although it was cold, it was also cosy and I miss the coal fire smell even today. I loved that this book transported me back to Cornwall and wish that I would be able to spend this year down by the sea for Christmas!

I loved this story, it wasn't too long which also I thought was nice, it wasn't rushed and I felt that I could lap it up, the setting, the plot and the characters I just loved it. This story really had the magical feeling with it.

Thea's parents are getting a divorce but have organised this festive holiday for the whole family. Thea's life has not been plane sailing, she is a school teacher and mourning the loss of a baby, who was expected this Christmas. All the characters in this story are believable and likable, which makes this a very quick read as I just wanted to know what was going to happen with them all.

The novel centres around the family and at Christmas time family is the most important thing. It is about adapting to situations and knowing your family is always there for you. I also loved the book boyfriend in this book, uhum, the surfer landlord... no more needs to be said!

This has been the first Judy Astley book I have read, however it will not be my last. This was a nice easy read, one which left me feeling warm inside and wishing Christmas would come early!

I would like to thank the publisher for sending this in exchange for an honest review.

The Twelve Dates of Christmas by Lisa Dickenson

The Twelve Dates of Christmas - The Complete Novel by Lisa Dickenson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

At thirty, Claudia's life is stale and the romance with long-term boyfriend, Seth, has disappeared. Determined to inject some festive spark back into their love life, Claudia and Seth go on their first date in a very long time. But when the night ends in disaster, Claudia suddenly finds herself facing life - and Christmas - alone.

Life alone is exciting, scary and full of soon-forgotten exercise regimes and ill-advised attempts at crafting sexy underwear. It's also filling up with dates, surprisingly. With best friends Penny and Nick at her side, a surplus of festive markets, mulled wine and Christmas tunes, Claudia attempts to face all this change with gusto. One thing's for certain: this year, Christmas is going to be very different . . .

This is the story of Claudia and her twelve dates of Christmas. Hilarious, uplifting and romantic, it's a story about losing love, finding love, and discovering what's been there all along. Expect Christmas sparkle, butterflies-in-your-stomach romance and a lot of very funny moments in The Twelve Dates of Christmas.

I first discovered Dickenson earlier this year, when I had the opportunity to read You had me at Merlot. I absolutely loved it and so when I got asked if I would like to read The Twelve Dates of Christmas I jumped at the chance.

This story follows Claudia who is bored with her job and has had little luck in love. The story begins with her on a date her boyfriend Seth. In true Dickenson style the first few pages are a riot.it leaves Claudia realising Seth is no longer for her and she should move on. As the month of December progresses so does the number of dates Claudia goes on. Each one as entertaining as the one before.

The Twelve Dates of Christmas is certainly a Christmas tale that you need in your life this Christmas, it has everything out could want from a book. There is everything in a chick lit, romance, Christmas and humour. I raced through this book, just as I did with Dickenson' s previous story.

I loved how I didn't know what was going to hand and when I thought I finally knew. There was another twist in the tale. There was so much reference to Christmas in the book and the descriptions were perfect, this is something I loved! I was able to transport myself to December in October which I loved.

I have now read both f Dickenson' s novels and would like to read more from her. She is. Brilliant author and if hi have not yet discovered he yet, this is the time to now!

I would like to thank the publisher for sending me this copy in exchange for an honest review.

A Gift to Remember - Melissa Hill

A Gift to Remember by Melissa Hill
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Darcy Archer works in a small bookstore in Manhattan. A daydream believer, she refuses to settle for anything less than being swept off her feet by the perfect man...literally. One day, when cycling to work, Darcy accidentally crashes into a sharply dressed gentleman walking his dog. He is knocked out cold, rushed to hospital and the poor pup gets left behind. Wracked with guilt, Darcy takes the dog and makes plans to reunite him with owner, Aidan. As she discovers the mysterious stranger's world of books, travel, adventure and all the wonderful things she's ever dreamt about, Darcy builds a picture of this man and wonders if he could be THE ONE...But does fantasy match reality? What happens when Prince Charming wakes up? Will Aidan be the happy ever after she's always imagined?



A Gift to Remember is a Christmassy themed book and I thought, picking this up in June may not be a great idea, as I enjoy reading Christmas books at Christmas time! Saying this, other than the odd comment around Christmas Eve coming close and snow on the ground, no other Christmas references were made and at times I completely forgot when the story was set. It was magical and wonderful but this can come across at any time you read it.

Darcy works in a bookshop and being a book addict, this job for her is her dream, yes she went to university and got a degree and could easily do a job that matches her skill set, but she doesn’t want that. She wants to be surrounded by books day in, day out. After a few days working in the shop, she realises that perhaps it was not all hearts and flowers that she imagined but loves the job anyway. At times I wished we had more time in the book shop with Darcy, I could picture myself in there browsing the shelves and sitting in a comfy chair with a book.

One day on the way to work Darcy crashes into a man on her bike, he hits the ground and has to be taken to hospital, a dog – Bailey is left by the side of the road. Darcy feels terrible about the whole accident and the least she can do is take his dog to look after him and try to get him back to his owner. Darcy makes this her mission as after all she is responsible for this terrible episode.

Darcy is a lovely character and I felt I could connect to her straight away. I loved her personality and felt and carried the guilt along with her, I wanted Darcy to help Aiden as much as she possibly could and discover the mystery surrounding him. Also I fell in love with Bailey, the Husky and I now want one of my own! Such a cute dog and so well behaved!!

This book surprised me in many ways, I did not find it predicable at all and I loved the mystery surrounding Aiden and wanted Darcy to discover the truth. I feel that the mystery element could have been developed more as; as soon as it was discovered I quickly worked out the ending. I thought the mystery element bought something different to this chick lit that many don’t have and I enjoyed that.

The only negative thing I would say about the story is that about half way through we began to have Aiden’s side of the story which I did enjoy, but this isn’t clear until you have read a paragraph or so and I found this a little confusing when it started. As soon as I worked out what was happening then I was looking out for the change in the character. I felt this could have been something easy to correct, either put the characters name on the top of that chapter or write it in italics or something. This is just my opinion and like I said as soon as I worked out this was happening, I just then looked out for the change.

Another thing I would have liked to have seen was the date or day of the events, time is used in the story a lot, ‘in three days’ etc, I just think it would have been nice to have had say, 22nd December, written on the day it was meant to be. This to me would have made it a smoother read. There was one point very close to the end that it was mentioned 27th December was in three days time… this I feel could have been helpful to the reader; again though this is purely my own opinion.

Overall I did enjoy the story a lot especially considering I didn’t think I would enjoy it being June. I would say if you are looking for a ‘strong’ Christmassy themed book then this one is not for you as there is not as much festivity in it and I had expected there to be. However this is a brilliant read for any time of year, which has been injected with a little magic.

The story is written beautifully and it is clear that Hill researched the setting well, this comes across in the writing and I was able to feel like I was in New York along with Darcy and Aiden. After reading this book (which is my first by Hill, although I do have another sitting on my shelf to be read!) I would definitely pick up more books by her as her writing style is so smooth, easy and enjoyable to read.

I would like to thank the publishers for sending me this copy in exchange for an honest review, and also to Melissa for signing my copy.

Just for Christmas - Scarlett Bailey

Just For Christmas by Scarlett Bailey
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

'Her best friend's wedding...

When Alex Munro learns that the love of her life is getting married to another girl, all she wants is to be alone - and as far away from Edinburgh as possible.

Moving to a Cornish cottage, which comes complete with the world's scruffiest dog, Alex finds that her new neighbours are determined to involve her in their madcap Christmas festivities.


Then she meets her sexy neighbour Ruan - and somehow Alex doesn't want to be alone this Christmas after all. But having lost one fianc�, Ruan has no intention of letting anyone get close to him again...'



I have never read a Scarlett Bailey novel before and I am not quite sure how I have missed them! First of all I would like to say what a fabulous cover this is and it comes complete with glitter even on the spine of the book!

This story is about Alex, she lives in Scotland but is left heartbroken by her best friend who announces he is getting married and has fallen out with her dad. Mum left years ago and she doesn't have any other family, so she decides to apply for a job in Poldore, Cornwall.

Now this to me has a very personal connection, Poldore, which I quickly found out was a fictional place, however many features of the description of the place triggered my memory. My grandparents lived down in Cornwall and owned a B&B for years, I gradually discovered that Poldore was actually based on the village that my grandparents lived in. I could not believe it, and tweeted Scarlett who confirmed my suspicion! This to me then made me love the story even more as I could picture where Alex was and it bought back happy memories for me.

Anyway back to the story, Alex applied for a harbor master position in Poldore and got the job, which come along with a cottage in the village and a dog that came with the cottage ha ha! This was something Alex was not keen on, however over time in the story she came to love the dog - Bouy. This is a brilliant tale of an outsider being accepted into a village community and feeling like part of the family that the village is.

Alex moved down to Poldore in the running up to Christmas, so the book features Christmas aspects and the warmness of the villagers really get you into the Christmas spirit.

I found the book to not be a straight forward romance chick lit book, which I enjoyed as it has you guessing aspects of it and leaves a little to the imagination. This book has everything, it takes you through emotions which will have you laughing to crying. I found this an easy Christmas read which was very enjoyable. I would recommend every one to add it to their Christmas book wish list. I would like to thank the publisher for sending it to me.

The Twelve Days of Christmas: Correspondence by John Julius Norwich

 The Twelve Days of Christmas: Correspondence. John Julius Norwich by John Julius Norwich
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

'A delightful spoof of the old favourite carol ‘The Twelve Days of Christmas’ which records the daily thank-you letters from one increasingly bemused young lady to her unseen admirer: from initial gracious gratitude for the delightful partridge in the sweet little pear tree through to dismay and distress and a final threatening solicitor’s letter as a bacchanalia of pipers, scantily clad dancers and the full percussion section of the Liverpool Philharmonic create mayhem outside her door. The witty full colour drawings by Quentin Blake are a perfect accompaniment to the irrepressible humour of this sparkling little book. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.'



When I received this copy to review I couldn't wait to share it with my class. They all know the song the 12 days of Christmas and felt they could join in with parts of the book.

They loved the illustrations by the wonderful Quentin Blake, they are familiar with his drawings from reading other stories with his illustrations in.

This is a very funny version of the song and we follow Emily and what she receives from her admirer,in letter versions. The children found it very funny to imagine actually getting the gifts from the song. They were giggling throughout the story and I also found it funny.

I think this is a great little book in the run up to Christmas as a stocking filler or as a gift to yourself. I would recommend this to anyone who wants to have a little chuckle and this should be a firm book on everyone's bookshelf to share around this time of year!

I would like to thank the publisher for sending me this copy.

The Illustrated Christmas Cracker - John Julius Norwich

 The Illustrated Christmas Cracker by John Julius Norwich
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

'For over forty years, John Julius Norwich has been sending out his Christmas Crackers - a personal collection of quirky quotes and literary odds and ends - to his friends instead of a Christmas card. In The Illustrated Christmas Cracker Quentin Blake has made his own selection of favourite pieces and has illustrated them in his own trademark style. From curious dictionary definitions ('Carphology. Delirious fumbling with the bedclothes,' Concise Oxford Dictionary) and tortuous palindromes ('Live dirt up a side-track carted is a putrid evil') to eighteenth-century accounts of drunken pigs and Benjamin Franklin's account of inventing bifocals, this cracker is stuffed with surprising, offbeat, often hilarious gems. Enlivened by Quentin Blake's witty illustrations, this book is the perfect stocking-filler for the discerning customer.'



When I was sent this book from the publisher I was excited about sharing it with my class of children, this however I found was not possible. The text is way too advanced for them and they didn't understand it, also some of the text was not suitable for them.

This is a book that have been compiled of John Norwich's 'Christmas Crackers' he sends to his family and friends at Christmas time, instead of a Christmas card. The book is made up of poetry and prose that he has found amusing.

The illustrations in the book are wonderful, to be honest I expected nothing less from Quentin Blake! They are humorous and fit well with the text.

Some of the quotes I found very funny and others not so, I do feel though that my expectations of the book did not follow with what I actually got. I was disappointed that I wouldn't be able to share it with my class as it quickly became apparent this was an adults book.

This is a nice 'coffee table' book as it can be flicked through and you can get a snip of enjoyment from it.

I would like to thank the publisher for sending me this copy.