Dreaming of Verona - T. A. Williams (Blog Tour)

Date of Reading: 02/02/2020

Author: T. A. Williams

Publisher: Canelo

Publication Date: February 3, 2020

Source: NetGalley 

Rating: 3.5/5

 

(This review is part of the blog tour organised by Rachel's Random Resources)

 

About the book:

 

 Verona is the City of Love. But will Suzie find romance there or, like Romeo and Juliet, will it all end in tears?

  When Suzie is hired to accompany spoiled, abrasive Lady Alexandra Tedburn on an all-expenses-paid holiday to Italy, she fears the trip will be a disaster.

But she soon discovers there’s more to Alex than shopping and tantrums, and she’s determined to help her realise her potential – against Alex’s authoritarian father’s wishes.

As they settle in Verona, Suzie can’t stop thinking about local artist Michael, who is still mourning the tragic death of his wife. With Suzie’s future uncertain, and Michael’s past holding him back, it seems there’s no hope for romance in the city of star-crossed lovers…or is there?

A gorgeously uplifting and moving story, Dreaming of Verona is the perfect read for fans of Holly Martin, Tilly Tennant and Jenny Oliver.

Review:

      When it comes to T. A. Williams' books, it is safe to say that we have a love and hate relationship. Fortunately, this one comes under the former category. Surely, it's not going to top 'Dreaming of Christmas' which is my absolute favourite but comes really close. Putting aside some dull moments in between, this novel on Verona is gripping, inspiring and is full of colours just like the city.
       The author has taken great care to maintain a Shakespearean spirit throughout. The fact that Suzie is a PhD holder in this topic must have helped it. I do love her theory of Shakespeare being a woman; who knows, one day we may get some proof regarding this conjecture. Besides the frequent quotes, the Tedburns family drama provides ample material for a Shakespearean play. Luckily, not all love should share the fate of Romeo and Juliet.
     As for the relationship between Suzie and Michael, I was in a dilemma. In my perspective, it didn't really go beyond infatuation so the way she waits was kind of perplexing. Same goes with James and Alexandra. If you look upon your best friend like a brother, could the feelings be changed to that of a lover? Well, I will leave that to the experts. 
      Yup, the story did give me enough to munch on. So grab a copy and join the discussion. Happy reading everyone!

Meet the author:

I’m a man. And a pretty old man as well. I did languages at university a long time ago and then lived and worked in France and Switzerland before going to Italy for seven years as a teacher of English. My Italian wife and I then came back to the UK with our little daughter (now long-since grown-up) where I ran a big English language school for many years. We now live in a sleepy little village in Devonshire. I’ve been writing almost all my life but it was only seven years ago that I finally managed to find a publisher who liked my work enough to offer me my first contract.

The fact that I am now writing romantic comedy is something I still find hard to explain. My early books were thrillers and historical novels. Maybe it’s because there are so many horrible things happening in the world today that I feel I need to do my best to provide something to cheer my readers up. My books provide escapism to some gorgeous locations and, as a writer, I obviously have to go there in person and check them out first. I love my job…

Oracle's War - David Hair and Cath Mayo

Date of Reading: 27/03/2019

Authors: David Hair and Cath Mayo

Publisher: Canelo

Publication Date: April 29, 2019

Source: NetGalley

My Rating: 4/5

About the book:

Gods and mortals collide in the thrilling second instalment in the historical Greek fantasy the Olympus Series.

When Prince Odysseus is sent on a quest to recover his family honour, he’s led to Delos where a mysterious new prophecy has captivated the gods. Caught in a tangled web of intrigue, he discovers that this prophecy is tied to his own destiny and the fate of his patron goddess, Athena.

With the future of his people hanging by a thread, Odysseus, the daemon Bria, the hero Diomedes and a small band of loyal Ithacans, must unveil the truth before it’s too late. But opposing them is Tiresias, the greatest seer of the age, who will do anything to burn his own vision onto the face of history.

Caught between the prophecy, the gods and his mortal enemies, Odysseus must start a war: one that may be impossible to win…

Oracle’s War, second in the epic Olympus Series, is perfect for fans of David Gemmell and Madeline Miller. 

My Review:

      I am brushing up my mythology lessons, thanks to this amazing series revolving around Odysseus. I had the pleasure of reading 'Athena's Champion' a few months back and the second instalment doesn't disappoint at all. And this has taken me to previously uncharted territory, the war of the Epigoni against the unpenetrable walls of Thebes. Though I haven't found any reference to Odysseus participating in the war in the original story, this fictional rethinking is nothing but brilliant.
       Finally, we have got a reference to Penelope even with the surprising twist. And the role of Tiresias . . . Oh! It was sad to picture the protagonist of 'Wasteland' as a villain, but isn't that clever? As for Odysseus, we got ample proof for his cunning brilliance in the first book itself, and here we find the teenage boy matured evolving into the ruler and strategist he is known for.
     But how authors are going to wrap this story with a single last book is something I would look forward to. We have a great war to win after all. So gear up folks and don't forget to read these first two books in the series. You will find your mythology taste buds adequately satisfied . . . that is until the coming of the last book 😉

Meet the authors:

David Hair is an award-winning New Zealand YA and Adult fantasy writer, and the author of sixteen novels.  He’s joined his considerable skill and expertise with Cath Mayo to create the Olympus Series, an adult historical fantasy drawing on ancient Greek Mythology, following the adventures of Odysseus as he navigates the dangerous world of the Greek Gods.
@DHairauthor

Cath Mayo is a New Zealand YA, Children and Adult fiction author. Her two published YA historical novels are both set in Ancient Greece and her first novel received a Storylines Notable Book Award for Young Adult Fiction in 2014. She’s joined her considerable skill and expertise with David Hair to create the Olympus Series, an adult historical fantasy drawing on ancient Greek Mythology, following the adventures of Odysseus as he navigates the dangerous world of the Greek Gods. @cathmayoauthor   

Suddenly Single - Carol Wyer (Blog Tour)

Date of Reading: 10/04/2019

Author: Carol Wyer

Publisher: Canelo

Publication Date: April 8, 2019

Source: NetGalley

My Rating: 4.5/5

About the book:

When bestselling romance author Chloe Piper’s marriage implodes a week before Christmas, she flees her cheating ex and the village gossips for the solitude of the newly built Sunny Meadow Farm and the company of her hapless dog, Ronnie.

But Chloe is soon pushed out of her comfort zone. Because with a lively development building crew – headed up by charming Alex – and a larger-than-life neighbour determined to make Chloe’s love life her pet project, Chloe finds herself in a whole new world of chaos…

This enthralling romantic comedy of self-discovery and new beginnings is perfect for fans of Kirsty Greenwood, Colleen Coleman and Marian Keyes.

My Review:

      I have just finished this amazing novel and whooping around with excitement, so please excuse me if this review comes out to be incoherent. This is Wyer's second book that I have taken up (no, I didn't read her detective novels) and is surely going to be on my favourite shelf. More than fiction, I will categorise this under self-help which is made genuinely interesting with the inclusion of a story.

       Our protagonist, Chloe Piper, is not just shy, she is suffering from social anxiety disorder. She is afraid of facing people and her knees buckle whenever she is confronted with too much attention; she even avoids supermarkets, scared of mingling with a crowd. She is a character I could pretty much identify with and that is not because I have this anxiety disorder (not that I have checked). But extreme shyness is equally horrible and the worst thing is there is only one cure: confront your fears and stop running away, as Chloe demonstrates. Help is sure to be at hand when you are ready to help yourself. Yes, this is one of those stories which perfectly portrays the message of Paulo Coelho.

      I am not fond of novels which include a lot of brooding, but here it felt completely natural. Since Chloe is not that talkative and keeps on thinking about the same things, the novel it seems has cleverly reflected her character. And the singleton group . . . I have only one word for you guys, AWESOME! 

        On the whole, this story has reminded me a lot about what I need to do. Because in spite of all the New Year pledges, I still run a mile if I am asked to be on the stage. So, Chloe, I know you are not real, but you are an inspiration to each introvert in this planet. I might be making a wild guess here, but it is possible that the author is also talking about her own writing experience through Chloe, and if that is the case, there could be someone who inspired this heroine.

      So what are you waiting for? I hope this review has given you enough incentive to run to the library. Another fabulous gem from Carol Wyer that should not be missed.

Meet the author:

As a child, Carol Wyer was always moving and relied on humour to fit in at new schools. A funny short story won her popularity, planting the seed of becoming a writer. Her career spans dry cleaning, running a language teaching company, and boxercise coaching. Now writing full-time, Carol has several books published and journalism in many magazines.

Carol won The People’s Book Prize Award for non-fiction (2015), and can sometimes be found performing her stand-up comedy routine Laugh While You Still Have Teeth.

The House at Greenacres - Darcie Boleyn (Blog Tour)

 

Date of Reading: 25/03/2019

Author: Darcie Boleyn

Publisher: Canelo

Publication Date: March 25, 2019

Source: NetGalley 

My Rating: 3/5

 

About the book:

 

When Holly Morton fled Penhallow Sands nearly a year ago she was determined to put the past - and Rich Turner - behind her. But now an unexpected loss and financial trouble have led her back to the family vineyard and it's time to tell Rich the truth - he's a father.

Surrounded by the memories of what they once shared Holly's anger fades in the glow of Rich's undeniable love for their son and the way he selflessly steps in to help the vineyard out of trouble. As Holly watches Rich flourish in his new role as father to baby Luke, she realises that though they can't change the past, the future is still theirs to write...

An uplifting, emotional romance set in Cornwall perfect for fans of Holly Martin and Phillipa Ashley

 

My Review:

 

        'The House at Greenacres' is the first book in the Penhallow Sands series and the second of the Boleyn books I am reading. This time we are transported to an idyllic countryside making it one of the perfect summer reads.

        My only complaint with the blub is that it completely gives out the story. There are no surprises or heartbreaking incidents. Instead, we are taken on a journey of self-discovery and life-altering decisions that will make you ruminate a lot. The story follows a dual narrative evoking the views of Holly and Rich and we could not but admire the way Rich comes out his feeling of guilt to be the father his son deserves.

       On the whole, an ideal story concerning family, forgiveness and fresh starts which is perfect for summer days.

 

Meet the author:

 

Darcie Boleyn has a huge heart and is a real softy. She never fails to cry at books and movies, whether the ending is happy or not. Darcie is in possession of an overactive imagination that often keeps her awake at night. Her childhood dream was to become a Jedi but she hasn’t yet found suitable transport to take her to a galaxy far, far away. She also has reservations about how she’d look in a gold bikini, as she rather enjoys red wine, cheese and loves anything with ginger or cherries in it – especially chocolate. Darcie fell in love in New York, got married in the snow, rescues uncoordinated greyhounds and can usually be found reading or typing away on her laptop. 

 

 

Knowing You - Samantha Tonge (Blog Blitz)

Date of Reading: 03/03/2019

Author: Samantha Tonge

Publisher: Canelo

Publication Date: March 14, 2019

Source: NetGalley

Rating: 4.5/5

(This review is part of the publication blog blitz organised by Rachel's Random Resources)

About the book:

An abrupt change; a new friendship; a dark secret...

Kind-hearted Violet has never fitted in, but despite being bullied at school is now content. She is dating ambitious Lenny, has her dream job in publishing and runs a book club at the local retirement home.

However, when her relationship with Lenny begins to falter, Violet, hurt and alone, seeks the advice of her new flatmate, Bella. She changes her image and with her head held high aims to show that she doesn’t need Lenny in her life to be happy and successful.

Her long-term friends Kath and Farah worry about Bella’s influence and slowly Violet starts to distance herself from them. When she was a child, her closest confidant and companion was a boy called Flint. Her mother didn’t approve of their closeness and he suffered a terrible end. She won’t let the same thing happen to Bella, no matter what anyone says...

Knowing You is about friendship and knowing who to trust with your deepest secrets; it’s about taking control of your life and not being afraid to stand out. 

Perfect for fans of Ruth Hogan, Gail Honeyman and Amanda Prowse 

My Review:

         This novel took me by surprise and shook up my work schedule. There is no way I was able to concentrate on anything else before knowing what happened to Violet. If you are a fan of psychological thriller, you would see it coming I am sure. Since I am not, the ending left me astounded. 

          Being my first book by Samantha Tonge, I could very well say her popularity is well earned. The elegant diction tugs at your heartstrings and will sweep you off your feet. And what I loved most is the way it is set in the publishing industry giving us a very intimate picture of the editorial process. I have always wondered how it is to work as an editor - the passion, creativity and the happiness when your hands help to deliver a perfect book - and now I know. Thank you, Samantha, for the touching compliments on book bloggers that you have lavishly supplied in between the pages. I just couldn't help myself from glowing while reading those words.

          The novel takes a dual narrative mode with Violet's present interspersed with the memories of her childhood. Bullied and alone in school, her only friend was Flint who instigated her to follow through her outrageous impulses. Effortlessly written, it won't take us much time to side with Violet in everything while she pulls through the betrayal of Lenny with the help of her new flatmate.

        Altogether a brilliant piece of work that will thrill you and make you weep. Without any doubt, one of the best books of 2019.

Meet the author:

Samantha Tonge lives in Manchester UK with her husband and children. She studied German and French at university and has worked abroad, including a stint at Disneyland Paris. She has travelled widely.

When not writing she passes her days cycling, baking and drinking coffee. Samantha has sold many dozens of short stories to women’s magazines. 

She is represented by the Darley Anderson literary agency. In 2013, she landed a publishing deal for romantic comedy fiction with HQDigital at HarperCollins and in 2014, her bestselling debut, Doubting Abbey, was shortlisted for the Festival of Romantic Fiction best Ebook award. In 2015 her summer novel, Game of Scones, hit #5 in the UK Kindle chart and won the Love Stories Awards Best Romantic Ebook category. In 2018 Forgive Me Not, heralded a new direction into darker women's fiction with publisher Canelo. In 2019 she was shortlisted for the Romantic Novelists' Association romantic comedy award. 

What Happens in France - Carol Wyer (Blog Tour)

Date of Reading: 19/1/2019

Author: Carol Wyer

Publisher: Canelo

Publication Date: January 28, 2019

Source: NetGalley 

Rating: 4/5

(This review is part of the blog tour organised by the publisher)

About the book:

“She stood and took her place in front of the camera... It was now or never”

  Bryony Masters has been looking for her long-lost sister, Hannah, for years, but when their father has a stroke her search takes on new urgency. So when a primetime game show, What Happens in France, puts a call-out for new contestants, Bryony spots the ultimate public platform to find her reality TV-obsessed sister, and finally reunite their family.

With the help of handsome teammate Lewis, it’s not long before she’s on a private jet heading for the stunning beauty of rural France. With a social media star dog, a high maintenance quiz host and a cast of truly unique characters, Bryony and Lewis have their work cut out for them to stay on the show and in the public eye.

Yet as the audience grows and the grand prize beckons they find that the search that brought them together may just fulfil more than one heart’s wish…

This heartwarming romantic comedy of friendship, family and laugh-out-loud adventures is perfect for fans of Kirsty Greenwood, Colleen Coleman and Marian Keyes.

My Review:

        This is undoubtedly the cutest book I found this year. Starting from the enticing cover (who could resist a pug?), it takes you into a roller coaster ride of fun, laughter and a taste of tears. We could pretty much guess the winners of the game show and the ending was also downright predictable, but that didn't prevent me from getting emotional at the concluding chapter.
        Bryony is both intelligent and witty, and Lewis handsomely completes the pair. The understanding we have in the beginning of Lewis being gay really helps one to concentrate on the game show and Hannah exclusively. A romance in the mix would have turned it quite awkward as it happened towards the end. But a story about a fun companionship, their quirky behaviours and humorous articulations can never be missed.
      This review won't be complete without a mention of Biggie Smalls, who dominates the cover page (for obvious reasons). After all, he is the one who brought the perfect prize to his newfound human companion.
       Overall, an enjoyable story with an idyllic setting. 

Meet the author:

As a child, Carol Wyer was always moving and relied on humour to fit in at new schools. A funny short story won her popularity, planting the seed of becoming a writer. Her career spans dry cleaning, running a language teaching company, and boxercise coaching. Now writing full-time, Carol has several books published and journalism in many magazines.

Carol won The People’s Book Prize Award for non-fiction (2015), and can sometimes be found performing her stand-up comedy routine Laugh While You Still Have Teeth.