Sloantate

The Boyfriend Blog, is a refreshing change on the friends to lovers trope. Often it’s the female protagonist who is chasing down her male bestie,  or realising that they were in love with him all along. In KL Grayson’s latest novel, Lizzie has always known she loved Aiden but refused to do anything about it after a case of mistaken identity and a misunderstanding which has haunted her for years. In this story it’s Aiden who chases Lizzie’s heart, going to any lengths to get out of the friend zone. Along with some interesting characters and family drama’s #TheBoyfriendBlog is definitely a must read, it’s a light, quirky and fresh take on an old favourite, and one to enjoy over the holiday season. Purchase links: Amazon UK:  https://www.amazon.co.uk/boyfriend-blog-k-l-grayson-ebook/dp/B07XC7G6V2 Amazon US:  https://www.amazon.com/Boyfriend-Blog-K-L-Grayson-ebook/dp/B07XC7G6V2 Also available on iBooks

What an absolute hoot! I’m sold on any character who, when you first meet them is talking to their dog. Merwyn is the perfect companion who empathises with Ivy at the same time prepared to offer an eye-roll when needed.  Some of the subplots of infidelity, redundancy, a horde of children *shivers* and the demands of social media would normally be hard hitters in a romance book, but the humour of Jane Linfoot’s storytelling makes them a lighter read. Bill/Will or Will/Bill is a perfect grouch with a hidden past that Ivy uncovers, but from the start, it’s easy to see he has a soft centre, Merwyn can vouch for that.  With the arrival of various family and friends, the quirks of an old castle bring them together and enjoy the holidays without their phones in front of their faces, take time to look out for each other and discover that they aren’t as superficial as they might seem. As always, my thanks to #Netgalley and publisher #OneMoreChapter for giving me th...

The fifth book in Jayne Rylon's ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Powertools: Hot RIdes series has to be one of my favorites. I finally got to find out about Rivet's story, have been left intrigued after the showdown at the diner. To start, she might be an unlikely heroine, but the is something about her that calls to me, She's scrappy, a fighter with a bruised soul. But now she is given a chance to get both revenge and the key to her happiness in Levi and Ransom.  One of the things I like about Jayne's series is that even though they are a shorter read there is so much depth to both her characters and the plot, these to things are key to me wanting more.  My thanks to the author for allowing me to review her work, but also for all the great stories she has written. Purchase Links: Amazon UK:  https://www.amazon.co.uk/Rough-Ride-Powertools-Rides-Book-ebook/dp/B07XQBPRLV/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=Rough+Ride+by+jayne+rylon&qid=1573597246&sr=8-1 Amazon US:  https://www.amazon.com...

A delicious ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ treat that will leave you craving for more. Back on Primrose Farm for a festive feast of puddings and all is not calm. Since our first visit to the Pudding Pantry, things have gotten a wee bit hectic for Rachel, single mother, farmer, girlfriend and café owner. As the holiday season drawers closer Rachel is being pulled in all directions, the tourist season is over and the Pantry’s customers are dwindling, Masie’s father is back on the scene, Tom, her boyfriend wants to see more of her and the farm is under threat.  It doesn’t end there, but I don’t wish to spoil anything, they are so many ingredients aka additional subplots stirred in this cozy story that you will be engrossed from cover to cover. So, wrap up warm, sit by the fire with a mug of hot chocolate to hand and enjoy this story which will leave you craving sticky toffee pudding :D As always, my thanks to publisher #OneMoreChapter and #Netgalley for allowing me to read # ChristmasAtRach...

What an absolute ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ hoot! I’m sold on any character who, when you first meet them is talking to their dog. Merwyn is the perfect companion who empathises with Ivy at the same time prepared to offer an eye-roll when needed.  Some of the subplots of infidelity, redundancy, a horde of children *shivers* and the demands of social media would normally be hard hitters in a romance book, but the humour of Jane Linfoot’s storytelling makes them a lighter read. Bill/Will or Will/Bill is a perfect grouch with a hidden past that Ivy uncovers, but from the start, it’s easy to see he has a soft centre, Merwyn can vouch for that.  With the arrival of various family and friends, the quirks of an old castle bring them together and enjoy the holidays without their phones in front of their faces, take time to look out for each other and discover that they aren’t as superficial as they might seem. As always, my thanks to #Netgalley and publisher #OneMoreChapter for giv...

My annual Christmas read from Sarah Morgan and I'm not disappointed ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Sarah Morgan's latest festive release is a little different, told from multiple points of view and as the author notes, so many twists, and turns. Yes, it's different, but the story is told so well that you will be enraptured until the end. Strong characters, intriguing plots, and majestic scenery. Definitely worth taking the day off of work to read. My thanks, as always to #HarperCollins and #Netgalley and Sarah, herself, for giving me the opportunity to review #AWeddingInDecember. Purchase Links: Amazon UK:  https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07Q84VX59/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_i_0r3UDbBNH1G5W Amazon US:  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07Q84VX59/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_i_0r3UDbBNH1G5W Audible UK:  https://www.amazon.co.uk/A-Wedding-in-December/dp/B07XQK5QYN/ref=tmm_aud_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr= Also available on ibooks 

Please judge this book by its cover 😍 Well for more than just the very fine name of the lead character, I loved this story. In particular, Chrissy, she has so much sass and its refreshing to have the female character in a book like this to take the lead and use her brains. Not only can Chrissy defend herself, but she also uses her intellect to save others. The banter between Ryan and Chrissy adds to the potent mix of their personalities, the reason for Ryan's standoffishness is revealed close to the end of the story, which helps to tie the plot up. It's 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 from me Purchase Links: Amazon UK:  https://www.amazon.co.uk/SEALs-Hellion-Special-Forces-Operation-ebook/dp/B07Z2WKC6X/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=seal%27s+hellion&qid=1571175710&s=digital-text&sr=1-1 Amazon US:  https://www.amazon.com/SEALs-Hellion-Special-Forces-Operation-ebook/dp/B07Z2WKC6X/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=seal%27s+hellion&qid=1571175710&s=digital-text&sr=1-1

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐from me Trisha Ashley has done it again, one of the queens of festive romance, she lets you escape the hustle as the bustle of your workday and curl up in the break room was a warm cuppa and a story which brings out the magic of the upcoming season. The characters, as so often are the stars of the show with their quirky habits and eccentric personalities, help to bring the story to life. As much as I enjoyed unraveling the story of Meg and Lex complicated past, I was also enthralled by the novel way of telling Clara and Henry's. Add in a funny looking pup and I'm putty in Trisha's hand. As always my thanks to the author, #RandomHouseUK and #Netgalley for allowing me to read and review #TheChristmasInvitation Purchase Links: Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Christmas-Invitation-Trisha-Ashley-ebook/dp/B07P5WPBKZ/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1571173913&sr=1-1 Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/Christmas-Invitation-Trisha-Ashley-ebook/dp...

A delightful read to get you into the spirit of the season, with or without gin. I adored this book, the characters and the plot, the subtle underlying message or forgiveness and understanding, of others and more importantly ourselves.  Both Finn and Holly arrived on Sunflower island looking to escape and fine direction in life, be that hiding or walking into every opportunity with their socks pulled up and a grin and bare it acceptance.  My favourite part is the scene when Holly returns home and the inevitable confrontation with her sister. I've experienced some of what Holly felt at different points in my life and this scene between sisters was so realistic.  Its definitely  🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟  from me.  As usual, my thanks to #Netgalley and #Bookouture for allowing me to read and review the wonderful #TheChristmasCountdown by Donna Ashcroft Purchase Links: Amazon UK:  https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B07WV4C5GS?pf_rd_p=330fbd8...

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ A gruff hero, an independent heroine and a mischievous Dalmatian, all the ingredients are there for a cosy winter romance.  It’s an oldie but a goodie and Sophie Claire has incorporated it into her story well, the strong and silent lord of the manner, haunted by his past finds himself captivated by the faults of a lady coming out of the shadow of her past mistakes.  I particularly like how straightforward and no nonsense Jake Hartwood is, but underneath his moody exterior is the capacity to love, woman and beast. It’s Evie Millers compassion and generosity, which makes her the perfect balm for his wounded soul. Add loyal Smoke into the mix and things get interesting. The fact the two main characters don’t spend Christmas in the “usual” way, but go their own way to escape their problems means this charming Christmas read has a new and interesting dimension to a genre with plenty of books to chose from at this time of year. The Christmas Holiday should d...

Sue Moorcroft has done it again. Every time I open one of her books, it feels like an embrace from an old friend and Let It Snow is no different. On the surface you could be forgiven that this is quirky festive romance, but look between the covers and you will discover romance, heartbreak and unknown siblings. Proving that no one is perfect but as long as we swallow our fears and at least try, we maybe granted the things we long for, career success, family or love. Along with some deep topics there is a lightness to this story, from Dalmatian to choir members and teenage crushes, Let it snow is a must read for anyone looking for a winter escape. My thanks to #Netgalley and #AvonBooksUK for allowing me to read and review #LetItSnow. It’s ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ from me Purchase Links: Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Let-Snow-Sue-Moorcroft-ebook/dp/B07PBQ4Y9Q/ref=sr_1_1?crid=5NOTJ24NM0JI&keywords=let+it+snow+sue+moorcroft&qid=1569518355&sprefix=Let+it+snow%2Caps%2C200&s...

What a truly delightful and insightful read. I have enjoyed all of Meik Wiking's books but this one is more poinient for me than most. Memories are essentially all we have in the end and some don't even get to keep those. but reading this book has made me think more about how we create memories, its not just doing exciting or adventurous things, though those are great, it's a conversation with a loved one, a story shared, even a scent of a moment. As readers we may be unconciously aware of the points this book drawers upon but reading this has broughts these ideas into focus. In particular I found the 'sketch of the future, helpful and will be drawering upon its advice in the coming months. My thanks to #Netgalley, #PenguinBooksand #PenguinLife for giving me the opportunity to read and review #TheArtOfMakingMemories. I rate this book a 5 star read but there is no higher praise for a book than being given a copy and then for it to be that good that you go ou...

I enjoyed the fourth instalment of Jayne Rylon's Powertools: Hot Rides series, it is an easy read, following a similar pattern as previous books and sometimes that's all you need. The plot is suspenseful, and the romance, just like the series title suggests, hot. Though Joy was at times annoying in her lack of trust in Walker and Dane, it suited her mama bear in flight mode character. I do think that Walker needed a bit more of a backbone, given the power exchange between our two heroes. But it was good to see that all three of them could be toed back into line by their friends, no their family at Hot Rods and Powertools. Overall a good ⭐⭐⭐⭐ read, one I would recommend for heating up the daily commute. Purchase Links:  Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B07V3GCS3K/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i3 Amazon US:  https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07V3GCS3K/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i3 Also available on I-tunes.

Emma Heatherington’s new release had me engrossed to the end. Will she or wont she? This question stuck me throughout the book, will Charlie follow Tom to England? Will she chose family over love? Will she stick with the reliable or go for broke and follow fame and fortune? The internal conflict of Charlie, a mixture of guilt and love is perfectly captured by the author, characterisation is a speciality of hers. You can get a sense of the efforts Emma goes to when she had a song ‘You’ by Gareth Dunlop commissioned to go along with the book. I highly recommend reading the 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟  star rated #RewriteTheStars, it’s at times heartbreaking (yes there were tears on the morning commute again) but it is a story about hope and that you can rewrite your dreams, something you think you want, may not be what you need. As always, my thanks to #Netgalley and #OneMoreChapter for granting me an advanced copy of #RewriteTheStars to review. Purchase Links: Amazon UK: https://www....

I am a sucker for a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ festive romance and gorge myself on as many as I can find, (hence reading a Christmas book release in August) and #ItWontBeChristmasWithoutYou enveloped me in the festive spirit from the start. From the realities of having a sister, particularly a twin (I have imagined and had many similar feelings as our two main characters Cara and Eloise) to the enchantment of blossoming romance at the most wonderful time of the year, I enjoyed the escape from my own life and championed each sister at different points in the novel. The way the author writes I could visualise every scene, even down to making risotto in a house shared with five virtual strangers, where the heating didn’t work properly and those extra five minutes for the food to be cooked. Reading this story gave me the same warm and fuzzies as watching Bridget Jones’s Diary, this is high praise from me. The only thing that left me hanging was if Cara actually got the promotion. I highly recommen...

A delightful fourth installment to Debbie Burns’ Rescue Me series ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Puppies!!! For that reason alone, I knew I would love this story, having them be Border Collies was the icing on the cake. They are my favourite breed of dog and Debbie got their renowned characteristics, especially for Sadie and Turbo down to the ground. You might think I’m mad for highlighting the dogs in my review, but it speaks a lot to the author's ability to write about characters if they can make you see an animals expression or the understanding that comes with the tilt of their head in your mind’s eye. I did enjoy the story, three of my favourite things, Christmas, romance and you guessed it, puppies :D Though I found the plot a little slower than I would like in places, I thoroughly enjoyed reading #LoveAtFirstBark and would recommend to those who enjoy their romance. My thanks as always to #Netgalley, #SourcebooksCasablanca and @DebbieBurns for giving me the honour of revi...

You don’t know what you have been missing until you find it. K.L. Grayson’s latest release is a heart-warming romance, with a superstar leading lady, Nora and a single father of three, Grayson, working hard to provide for his family. The juxtaposition of the leading roles is refreshing, along with the focus on Grayson’s adorable three children.  At an age when it’s only natural to want to make changes in her life, Nora is forced to flee the bright lights and harsh critics for small time life. There she finds that fame and money are not what most people think and it’s the simple things like helping a boy who lost his mother and a braiding a young girl’s hair are a soothing balm to the wounded soul. Join Nora and Grayson on their journey of friendship, romance and real life that could lead to their own happily ever after.  I enjoyed the slightly slower pace of this book and the chemistry between the characters makes this a star ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ read. Purchase Links:...

#TheSecretCoveInCroatia is something a little different from @JulieCaplin and her Romantic Escapes series. What struck me was the increased focus on the male character, which of course is normally touched upon but I found The focus on Nick refreshing.  I loved Maddie’s Sass and she came into her own on this journey, which was great to see from the get go. I'm giving The Secret Cove in Croatia ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ and highly recommend this book to all who are looking for a romantic escape. As usual my thanks to #Netgalley and #HarperImpluse for allowing me to review #TheSecretCoveInCroatia Purchase Links: Amazon UK:  https://www.amazon.co.uk/Secret-Cove-Croatia-Romantic-Escapes-ebook/dp/B07L7Y9LL5/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=The+Secret+Cove+in+Croatia+by+Julie+Caplin&qid=1563013377&s=gateway&sr=8-3 Amazon US:  https://www.amazon.com/Secret-Cove-Croatia-Romantic-Escapes-ebook/dp/B07L7Y9LL5/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=The+Secret+Cove+in+Croatia+by+Julie+Caplin&qid=15630...

As an avid collector of travel guides and someone who has spent many a holiday in Ireland, I thought #IrelandTheBest: The Insider’s Guide to Ireland by John McKenna and Sally McKenna. would be an ideal book for me to review for #NetGalley.  Unfortunately, this was not the case. The format of the book is essentially a list of Places to stay, eat, visit and things to do. Don't get me wrong this format allows for more places and less waffle, but it is just not my preference and why I've rated it ⭐⭐⭐.  Perhaps Ireland The Best would be better in paperback than on Kindle, when I first began to read and was bombarded with the different colours of font I thought it contained hyperlinks, which would have been brilliant but unfortunately not so I'm at loss as to why the words were in green, blue, white and red (I have my Kindle set to dark mode, hence white). Overall informative, confusing and just not for me, but that doesn't mean it wouldn't suit others, pe...

I loved this ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ second instalment of Lynne St James' Black Eagle series. In particular the attention paid to the role of the whole team and not just to the relationships with the main protagonists. Call me fickle but I love the secondary characters because it means that I know there will be more stories to tell. Getting back to Cam and Miranda, I found their relationship honest and enjoyable to be along for their journey. I recommend this book to anyone who likes Susan Stoker, Elle James, Caitlin O'Leary and Avery Gale. Purchase Links: Amazon UK:  https://www.amazon.co.uk/SEALs-Sunshine-Special-Forces-Operation-ebook/dp/B07TLDBXZ8/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=Seal%27s+Sunshine&qid=1563011131&s=gateway&sr=8-1#customerReviews Amazon US:  https://www.amazon.com/SEALs-Sunshine-Special-Forces-Operation-ebook/dp/B07TLDBXZ8/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=Seal%27s+Sunshine&qid=1563011131&s=gateway&sr=8-1#customerReviews

Holy flipping hotness Batman! ⭐⭐⭐⭐ rated. Hard Ride Powertools: Hot Rides Book 3 by Jayne Rylon is one of the sexiest books I've read in a long time. I didn't really feel the suspense of the stalker but the friends to lovers aspect of the story more than made up for it. I highly recommend. Purchase links: Amazon UK:  https://www.amazon.co.uk/Hard-Ride-Powertools-Rides-Book-ebook/dp/B07RL934RT/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=hard+ride+jayne+rylon&qid=1563009491&s=gateway&sr=8-3 Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/Hard-Ride-Powertools-Rides-Book-ebook/dp/B07RL934RT/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=hard+ride+jayne+rylon&qid=1563009491&s=gateway&sr=8-3 Also Available on I-Books:  https://books.apple.com/gb/book/hard-ride/id1462972869

I am new to  Honeyford, but I have fallen in love with the town and its eclectic and eccentric residence. From Flora who wants to fit in and set down roots after the ultimate betrayal to Luna who enchants and slightly scares people when first introduced. The main story revolves around Flora, who is finding herself whilst trying to ensure her fledgling business survives and blossoms and Luna’s son Daniel, who is coming out of the darkness which enveloped him following his wife’s untimely death. They are bound by their affection and love of Daniel’s son. I adored this book; it made my morning and evening commutes something to look forward to as I was whisked to Honeyford rather than the grey dankness of a North East industrial town. The humour threaded into the characters lightened the burden of some of the deeper issues, infidelity, death and bullying.  My thanks to #Netgalley and #Bookouture for allowing me to read an advance copy of #ASummerEscapeAndStrawb...

Previously published as Guarding Aurora, Lynne St James has significantly revised and expanded her best-selling work to give her readers even more to sink their teeth into. If i could give it ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I would, alas I mark out of 5. A Soldier’s Destiny is Book 6 in the Beyond Valor series. There is nothing in this story I didn't love. The characters, Rori's independence, and feistiness and Jasper's soft centre and hard shell are a great combination, add in a bakery and I'm in heaven. The hotness was in perfect balance with both the story and the characters.  The plot was believable and runs smoothly. Lynne St James once again has shown that she spins a wonderful love story with the characters at its core and romance as the glue. Purchase Links:  Amazon UK:  https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B07SLQWXRC/ref=x_gr_w_bb?ie=UTF8&tag=x_gr_w_bb_uk-21&linkCode=as2&camp=1634&creative=6738 Amazon US:  https://www.amazon.com/gp/produc...

I spent a weekend snuggled up in my living room with this  ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ story, I enjoyed the characters almost as much as I wanted to knock some sense into them. Every single one of them was perfectly flawed, in as much I was rooting for them to succeed at the same time as shaking my head at their logic or lack thereof. It was most definitely the characters in this story that kept me reading, Jen being almost neurotic to Yakob. The flow of the story was paced well and matched the tried and tested beats. #ProbablyTheBestKissInTheWorld is definitely worth taking the day off from doing the chores and curling up on the sofa for My thanks to #Netgalley and #HarperImpulse for giving me the opportunity to read and review an advanced copy of #ProbablyTheBestKissInTheWorld Purchase Links: Amazon UK:  https://www.amazon.co.uk/Probably-Best-World-Pernille-Hughes-ebook/dp/B07GC9PJW4/ref=sr_1_1?crid=GBG667HM4DF0&keywords=probably+the+best+kiss+in+the+world&qid=1557875699...

Not just a pretty cover, The Perfect Fit by Mary Jayne Baker was a satisfying read. You will be whisked away to a Yorkshire village where there are rumours of hot tub orgies and a pub which only serves a pie and a pint.  There you will find a young woman who takes on the challenge to help save the building that brings their community together by putting on a Christmas panto, a tradition which had been abandoned years before. A motley crew of friends, family and even the odd celebrity, join the plucky heroine on her journey of transformation. She suffers a lot for her wish to keep the village hall open, but will she risk everything to keep the man she truly loves? There are happily ever after's and there are times when you have to walk away, this ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ story has everything to keep you turning the page. My thanks to #Netgalley and #MirrorBooks for given me the opportunity to read and review an advanced copy of #ThePerfectFit Purchase Links: Amazon UK:  htt...

I was an emotional mess from the first act  ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I fell in love with this book in the first act. I know that there have been problems with the uploading of the file due to an error outside of the author's control but don't be put off, this story is well worth the wait. I have read many of Ms. Rylon's books, each one better than those before, but I'm not sure how she will be able to top the emotions I felt reading Wren's story. I highly recommend Purchase Links: Amazon UK:  https://www.amazon.co.uk/Slow-Ride-Powertools-Rides-Book-ebook/dp/B07PMHKNFW/ref=cm_cr_srp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8 Amazon US:  https://www.amazon.com/Slow-Ride-Powertools-Rides-Book-ebook/dp/B07PMHKNFW

I am often put off from reading second chance tropes, it's a personal thing but I never saw how they could be realistic given that if someone walked away from me, I would not take them back. This is a hard and fast rule. But something drew me to this book and I was not left disappointed. It is all credit to the solid foundation to the plot and the strong character development through the novel. I would recommend Stay With Me to fellow naysayers. Purchase Links: Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Stay-Me-K-L-Grayson-ebook/dp/B07P3ZK35T/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1556602131&sr=8-1-fkmrnull Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/Stay-Me-K-L-Grayson-ebook/dp/B07P3ZK35T/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1556602131&sr=8-1-fkmrnull Also available from I-Books.