Sable Thorpe
Rating: 4.5 stars out of 5
Switched is a fun, cute story that weaves the whimsy of supernatural romance with a nerdy comedy. The novel is charming in its use of often funny technical diagrams, footnotes, and Star Trek references, bringing a relatability to the story that will resonate with fans of science and sci-fi alike.
The story follows Serena Otaki and Henry Joules, two physicists working at CERN with contrasting lifestyles (think chaos vs. order; coffee vs. tea) and outlooks on love, who are thrown together in a cosmic twist of fate. Serena, a Star Trek-loving American physicist, thrives in her independence. Henry is a serious, tea-loving Brit physicist who wants to find ‘The One' and settle down. Their worlds collide accelerated protons one fateful night at the local British pub.
Sarah Ready delves deep into the intricacies of understanding and accepting someone else's perspective, literally. When a bizarre electrical storm triggers their swap, they are thrust into each other's bodies. Their experiences force them to confront their preconceptions about love, life, and happiness from an entirely new vantage point.
The emotional and character development of both characters truly anchors the story. As Serena and Henry navigate their swapped lives, they embark on a journey of both self-discovery and mutual understanding. The inclusion of a spicy scene adds a touch of heat to their adventure, adding to the story's overarching themes of love and connection.
I didn't love the fourth wall breaking that occurred now and then, even though I must admit it was perfectly in keeping with Serena's character. Also, as a Brit who grew up in America, some of the tongue-in-cheek stereotypes of both countries were a little much at times, but never stopped me from enjoying the story.
Overall, Switched is a feel-good story that strikes the perfect balance between heartwarming romance and nerdy humour. It's a story about finding love in the most unexpected places, the magic of understanding another person truly, and the joy of discovering that what we think is a universal truth isn't necessarily universal after all.
This book is a must-read for those who enjoy a blend of romance, comedy, and a touch of the supernatural, all wrapped up in a narrative that's as thought-provoking as it is entertaining.
I highly recommend this sweet, sci-fi read to anyone who loves rom-coms, slightly supernatural stories, or just wants to escape into a delightful world.
A Delightfully Witty Satire of High Society
5/5 stars - A must-read for fans of short satirical humour.
“Bedtime Stories for Privileged Children” by Daniel Foxx sparkles with biting wit and clever observations. This collection of short stories is a masterful satire that playfully skewers the eccentricities of the upper crust.
Foxx's razor-sharp humour is on full display as he crafts tales of pampered little ones navigating their gilded world. Each story is a perfect little vignette, offering readers a glimpse into the absurdly luxurious lives of the fictional dysfunctional families.
His talent for blending the ridiculous with the relatable results in genuinely laugh-out-loud moments. From slurring mamas obsessed with Ozempic, cheese boards, affairs, and divorces to distanced papas embroiled in embezzlement scandals, the characters are delightfully over-the-top yet oddly familiar.
Standout stories include “The Easter Egg Hunt,” which educates on the importance to settling out of court, and “Penelope's Night Before Christmas,” a hilarious twist on the classic poem.
While the humour is decidedly adult, none of the language is. It is never directly mean or nasty. Instead, Foxx manages to create a sense of gentle fondness for his privileged protagonists, making the satire all the more effective.
There are some decidedly British references that you might need to look up to fully appreciate some jokes. For example, a P45 is paperwork you get when you leave (or are fired from) a job. Having these definitely lends a British flavour, but doesn't take away from the humour if you don't know all the references.
“Bedtime Stories for Privileged Children” is the perfect gift for anyone who appreciates dry humour and social commentary.
I discovered Evelyn Hollow through the Uncanny podcast hosted by Danny Robins, who also wrote a great introduction for this book. I find her to be a measured and knowledgeable paranormal researcher. I am personally a hopeful sceptic, and when I saw Evelyn had written a book I knew I would enjoy it, and so will you.
‘Atlas of Paranormal Places' is a must-read for fans of Evelyn and the podcast. This book isn't just a bunch of rehashed ghost stories; it takes you on a fascinating journey through history, cultural beliefs, and the strange happenings that have intrigued people for ages.
The book is organized really well, making it easy to explore the different places and tales. Each page features stunning photos that capture the eerie vibe of these locations. From the moving coffins in the Chase Vault to the Winchester House (a personal fave), every story is interesting and well-researched.
Evelyn Hollow writes in a way that draws you in and feels warm, taking into account both sceptics and believers. She looks into the history and legends of each place, discussing what might be made up and what could have natural explanations. Whether you believe in the paranormal or are simply curious about the stories that have influenced cultures globally, this book is definitely worth your time.
I highly recommend ‘Atlas of Paranormal Places' to anyone who loves the supernatural, history, and beautifully told stories.
5/5 Stars
“A Lady's Lesson in Scandal” by Darcy McGuire is a fun historical romance that combines espionage, love, and humour. Set in Victorian England, the story follows Millicent Whittenburg, a secret agent (sort of still in training) for Queen Victoria, who tries to escape a marriage she doesn't want by publicly ruining her reputation and making herself unmarryable. Her unknown victim and collateral damage is Major General Beaufort Drake, a man known for avoiding marriage and hating women. However, Millicent's plan goes awry when the battle-scarred veteran (and secret private investigator for the Prime Minister), proposes marriage for his own reasons.
McGuire's storytelling is compelling as she blends romance and mystery. The chemistry between Millie and Drake is palpable from their first meeting, and their relationship grows as they deal with their imminent engagement. Both characters are interesting and well-developed. Millie is a strong, possibly plus-size woman (she is called fat by a character, but the book cover doesn't show this) who challenges societal norms of feminine weakness and stupidity. At the same time, Drake's tough appearance hides a more sensitive side and trauma that is both mental and physical.
What makes this novel stand out is the powerful mix of romance and mystery tipped in favour of romance in the first half of the book, and mystery in the second. As Millie and Drake secretly work on supposedly separate missions to uncover a sinister plan, their paths cross. The intertwined storylines keep the pace engaging. Their playful banter is delightful and the spicy scenes are realistic and enjoyable.
A romance needs some spice, and McGuire delivers a good amount of it. The intimate scenes strike a lovely balance between sensual and sweet. The tension between Mille and Drake builds wonderfully, making their moments together even more rewarding.
“A Lady's Lesson in Scandal” is a must-read for anyone who loves historical romance (and isn't too much of a stickler about historical accuracy), with a bit of mystery and strong female leads. It's perfect for both newcomers (like me) and seasoned fans, offering captivating characters and a plot that keeps you intrigued until the last page.
It was a real struggle not to read this book all in one go, I could barely put it down. “A Lady's Lesson in Scandal” is a fantastic addition to the historical romance world and leaves you excited for more in The Queen's Deadly Damsels series. I will absolutely be reading the rest of this series.
Thank you to Boldwood Books and Net Galley for my eARC in exchange for my unbiased review.
4/5 Stars!
“The Dream Haunters” by Megan Mary is an autumnal magical mystery about Hannah Skye's journey to find her missing Aunt Jewelia. After getting a strange letter, Hannah heads to Maple Hollow. It turns out to be a magical island that is in autumn forever. There, she discovers her family's magic and learns to jump between dreams and our world to rescue her aunt by Halloween night.
Mary's prose makes you feel like you're right there, crunching through leaves and breathing in the crisp autumn air. The mix of fantasy, mystery, and coming-of-age threads weave together beautifully. Hannah's journey to discover her powers is compelling, and the side characters are also fun, especially the talking cat dream guide. The whole ‘dream haunter' concept is intriguing and keeps you invested. The book's pacing can be a bit off, with some parts feeling rushed. But, the story's charm and prose more than makes up for it.
If you're into cosy fantasy and spooky mysteries, this book is perfect for curling up with on an autumn day. It's great for young adults and anyone who wants a taste of fantasy without committing to a long series, or an overwhelming amount of mythology.
I listened to the audiobook version. I found the narrator to be very talented, and great with voices and expression. I feel she was a little bit of an odd choice. Her lovely soft voice can come across as older than the young main character, which drew me out of the story at times.
Thank you to Inner Realms Publishing and Net Galley for providing this audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
5/5 Stars
“The Viscount and the Thief” by Emma Orchard is a compelling romance set in the Regency era that we all know and love so well. It was so good, I read it in a single Sunday. Taking place in the spring of 1811, the story follows Sophie Delavallois, a smart, strong young woman with a secret plan, as she becomes the new companion for the Dowager Marchioness at Wyverne Hall. There, she meets Lord Drake, the mysterious Viscount, who feels a strong connection to her and is sure he knows her from somewhere. As their attraction deepens, Sophie is not quite torn between her desire for revenge and her growing feelings for Drake, but it makes her plan more difficult to pull off.
Orchard's writing features clever dialogue and well-developed characters, making the chemistry between Sophie and Drake exciting and full of tension. The romance unfolds at a good pace, keeping readers eager for more. The story is filled with intrigue and unexpected twists, as secrets come to light and characters' true intentions are revealed. Orchard also pays attention to the details of the Regency period, bringing it to life in an enjoyable way.
This book will resonate with fans of “Bridgerton,” Julia Quinn, and anyone who enjoys passionate historical romances mixed with a bit of mystery. Readers who like complex characters, family secrets, and redemption stories will find plenty to enjoy in “The Viscount and the Thief.”
It's important to mention that even though the cheerful cover might seem quite innocent, I consider the book a 4 out of 5 for spice, as it includes adult themes that aren't suitable for younger teens. This engaging story is best for adult readers looking for a sensual and thrilling Regency adventure.
Thank you to both Boldwood Books & Net Galley for an eARC in exchange for my honest review.
4/5 Stars!
“Work Trip” by Chloe Ford is a fun rom-com that I could barely put down. Fliss and James are fierce work rivals, unexpectedly stranded in the Scottish wilderness during a team-building exercise. With only one tent, limited supplies, and quick thinking to get them home, they must put aside their professional differences to navigate the challenging but beautiful landscape.
Spice:
As a new reader of Elle McNicoll's work, diving into “Some Like it Cold” felt like an already favourite book and I will be reading more of her work.
This novel, which I would say is half coming-of-age novel, half enemies-to-lovers romance, and offers more than a love story. McNicoll brings together themes of family dynamics, small-town life, being on the spectrum, and loving someone on the spectrum, creating a story that offers heartwarming insight.
I found Jasper's journey to be authentic (sometimes, painfully so) but also enlightening. What truly touched me as someone on the spectrum who counts as ‘highly functioning' was the way that living with autism was portrayed with sensitivity, honesty, and authenticity. If you have a child or close relative on the spectrum and you are not, I advise you to read this book for some insight on one experience with ASD.
The romance between Jasper and Arthur is nicely written, with a perfect balance of sweetness and personal history. Their journey from distant enemies to reluctant allies to something more is a classic enemies-to-lovers gambit. McNicoll excels at capturing the nuances of their relationship, making every moment feel authentic.
Jasper's relationships with friends and family are also deeply and insightfully explored. These threads and subplots make up the other half of the novel and are honest and compelling. Themes of repairing a strained friendship, the need to belong vs. the need to break away, and the personal price of keeping the peace are explored with brutal honesty without harshness.
Their hometown Lake Pristine, has that small-town atmosphere that adds an extra layer of depth to the story. It feels like a visit to a place where you would spend a charming weekend. If you fell in love with the place and moved there, you wouldn't be considered a ‘local' until your family had been there for three generations, and that feeling is kindly but honestly conveyed, an authentic background for the novel.
“Some Like it Cold” is a delightful read that will tug at your heart and leave you with a smile. Elle McNicoll's storytelling shines brightly in this novel, and I cannot recommend it enough. Whether you're a fan of romance, interested in neurodiversity, or simply looking for a heartwarming story to brighten your day, this book is a must-read.
Disclaimer: I received an ARC copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review
5/5 Stars!“The Romantic Tragedies of a Drama King” is an entertaining and sweet first book that's as funny as Bridget Jones, but appropriate for teens. Harry Trevaldwyn gives us Patrick “Patch” Simmons, a gay (and out) teenager navigating complicated friendships while looking for his first boyfriend.This book is full of queer teenage joy, offering a refreshing escape from typical coming-out narratives. The supporting cast is well-crafted, each bringing their quirks and humour to Patch's world. Trevaldwyn's writing is clever, with great lines like “Patrick, it's only bloody cake!” that show (or remind one) what it's like to be a teenager. There is a wonderful twist on the classic big romantic gesture that I absolutely adored. You really can't help but root for him and his dramatic ways.Patch's journey is full of laugh-out-loud moments. Whether he's chatting too much with a favourite teacher, plotting with friends, or being a bit too full of himself, he's always entertaining. His big personality and confidence make him fun to follow, even when he's being over-the-top (which is always). This book is perfect for anyone who enjoys a good laugh, a cute romance, and characters who aren't afraid to be themselves. It's bound to be a hit, and I can't wait to see what he writes next!Thank you to Macmillan Children's Books First Ink & NetGalley for an eARC copy in exchange for my unbiased review.
“Death at the Old Curiosity Shop” starts a new cosy mystery series set in the picturesque British Cotswolds. After being laid off shortly after being dumped by her long-time partner, Alice Carroll decides she needs a fresh start in the charming village of Little Pride. Her plan for a simple village life is complicated by an unliked and overeager builder tearing up the land around her new home, especially when one of his workmen turns up dead in the neighbour's compost heap.
While the mystery unfolds more gradually than usual, readers will appreciate the lovely village atmosphere and the details of its quirky residents. Young is excellent at capturing village life (I currently live in a village much like Little Pride1) and demonstrating Alice's strength of will and intellect as she navigates her new surroundings.
The story balances Alice's character development with a gradual uncovering of the town's secrets, intertwining small character arcs with the mystery. I found the murders happened quite late in the story, and the wrap-up was inversely short. It was still satisfying, but I very much enjoy a Miss Marple or Poirot wrap-up, which was missing from this story.
Overall, “Death at the Old Curiosity Shop” is a charming beginning to a series that will appeal to fans of light British mysteries. If you enjoy cosy mystery stories filled with character and a touch of intrigue, you'll want to follow any future adventures in Little Pride.
I found the audiobook of “The Formidable Miss Cassidy” to be an enchanting tale that transports readers to colonial Singapore. Blending historical fiction with Malay (and other) folklore, this captivating story follows the compelling Miss Leda Cassidy as she navigates the complexities of her role as governess and companion to two local families, and her own heritage.
What begins as a ordinary tale of teaching English and manners quickly evolves into a spellbinding adventure, as Miss Cassidy confronts the very real threat of ghostly entities, which I won't spoil. Weaving together strands of Celtic mythology and Singapore's rich cultural tapestry, the author has crafted a fascinating and even educational experience for the reader. If you love world mythology as I do, you will love this book.
The narrator was an absolutely perfect pick for this book. She was able to do many distinct voices with ease, and I could tell the characters apart despite the fact that there are mostly women characters.
With its vivid atmosphere, well-drawn characters, masterful blend of supernatural and the historical, and the perfect narrator, “The Formidable Miss Cassidy” is an enchanting listening experience.
Essential Crochet Starter Stitches is a wonderfully practical companion for crocheters of all skill levels. This compact guide showcases 100 beautifully photographed stitch patterns, each accompanied by clear written instructions and stitch diagrams. There were a lot of fan pattern especially that I haven't seen before, but will definitely try.
From basic solid stitches to elegant shells, openwork, and lace patterns, the book perfectly balances practicality and inspiration. The clear photography and stitch diagrams make new stitches approachable.
I would say that if you are brand new to crochet, this might not be the best place to start. This is more of a stitch dictionary, although it does have a lot of helpful basic stitch diagrams at the back of the book. In my opinion, many of the stitches, especially from the beginning section, would be perfect for making dishcloths or blankets to practice learning new stitches though!
Overall, this book is a lovely little reference to start you on your crochet journey.
This fun, fluffy contemporary romance has everything you could ask for. It even lists the relevant trope at the beginning of each chapter which was super cute, especially if you are a big romance reader. Embrace the premise and you will enjoy this book!
Sawyer, a successful and personally cynical romance author, has sworn off love and needs to get to work on her next book, stat. But after she has a one-night stand with famous actor Mason, who falls in love at the drop of a hat, they keep finding themselves in each other's paths. Deciding to work together through a list of stereotypical romantic scenarios for opposite reasons, the two begin to fall for each other despite their best efforts. This is a bit of a quirky premise, but if you can suspend your disbelief and simply enjoy a fun book, it shouldn't bother you much.
Whether these two will end up together is a foregone conclusion from the very start. Their chemistry is obvious immediately, to the reader and everyone in the book (including the main characters). If you are looking for a will they won't they with crazy levels of brooding tension, this book isn't for you. If you're looking for a cute, funny, fluffy celebration of the ways we fall in love (and some spice - that tights scene!) this is the book for you.
I highly recommend this for fans of fluffy romantic comedies and anyone looking for an entertaining, feel-good read. If you're a sucker for romance tropes, this one has most of them.
Thank you to HQ and NetGalley for providing an eARC for my review.
“The Soulless King” is a dark paranormal romance that draws you in from the first page.
The story follows a PR expert and an enigmatic ancient vampire king working together, blending suspense, passion, and supernatural elements beautifully. With its slow-burn romance and spicy moments, the book strikes a wonderful balance of tension and release.
While some aspects of the plot might feel familiar, the overall narrative remains enchanting. Readers should be aware of the high spice level and read trigger warnings for violence, but most dark romance fans will be familiar and feel comfortable.
“The Soulless King” presents a unique and compelling beginning to a series that will leave fans of dark paranormal romance excited for more.
Thank you to BooksGoSocial and NetGalley for my eARC copy for review.
Set in the nostalgic atmospheric 1990s rural-ish Portland, Poetic Justice tells a love story between Roz, a waitressing poet trying to get her life back on track, and Hudson, a somewhat mysterious chef with a serious backstory.
The book captures the unique feel of the time before the internet, mixing romance with themes of caring for the environment, complex family situations, and the ups and downs of working at the quirky Rose and Thorn (what a perfect name for a restaurant!). It also includes lots of fun and interesting side characters, all of whom feel real and add colour to the story.
McFall and Hays have crafted a love story with strong chemistry, clever and meaningful conversations, and true character development. Roz's path to healing and Hudson's caring nature are fully explored in a genuine (but not depressing) way. I love how the story jumps back and forth in time. The format really sets this book apart from the standard linear format in the genre and added to my '90s nostalgia when reading.
This book is perfect for anyone who enjoys heartfelt romances with a dose of '90s nostalgia, social awareness, and a bit of day-to-day restaurant life.
Thank you to Pumpjack Press and NetGalley for providing a free review copy. All opinions are my own.
My husband's favourite way to cook is grilling. Smokin' and Grillin' with Aaron Brown is the perfect cookbook for him, with lots of recipes I know we will be grilling up on sunny days.
Brown's expertise really shines in this book, offering a variety of traditional grilling recipes along with some unique surprises like delicious-looking sweet tea-marinated grilled chicken and beef burgers stuffed with whiskey and cheese. Each recipe looks amazing, and I love the easy-to-follow layout of each page. The inclusion of lamb dishes (something I don't usually see in grilling books) was a welcome addition and I can't wait to try more grilled lamb.
With a wide range of mouthwatering recipes and clear instructions, this cookbook is a great resource for anyone wanting to up their grilling game. Get ready to impress your guests and treat your taste buds to some amazing dishes from “Smokin' and Grillin' with Aaron Brown.
5/5 Stars!
“Unofficial Taylor Swift Crochet” is a nicely & clearly photographed fusion of crafting and style that will enchant both Swifties and crocheters alike. This vibrant collection, curated by Lee Sartori, offers over 20 diverse projects spanning clothing, home décor, and accessories, all inspired by Taylor Swift's iconic style and music.
From the “All Too Well” scarf (my personal fav) to THE “Cardigan” sweater, each project captures Swift's carefully curated style while providing a creative outlet for crafters of all skill levels. I also adore the Reputation TS amigurumi with her amazing suit!
The book's clear instructions, difficulty ratings, and “Taylor Made” customization tips make it accessible to beginners and interesting for even experienced crocheters. I found the instructions in the very back of the book to be very high quality, a lot better than you get in some of the more common pop culture-themed crochet books.
If you have a Swifite in your life you think should get into crochet, get them this book. It is also a perfect gift for any already craft-loving Swiftie looking to express their creativity through crochet.
Thank you to Quarto Publishing Group – Quarry Books & NetGalley for an eARC in exchange for my honest review.
“Essential Crochet Next-Level Stitches” is a fantastic little companion for any crocheter looking to expand their stitching skills! This book showcases 100 beautiful advanced stitch patterns in a format that's easy to follow. Each pattern comes with a clear photo, written instructions, and stitch diagrams, so you can learn whatever way works best for you.
The book is organized neatly into three sections: textured patterns (including some beautiful faux cables!), colourwork, and classy edgings that'll give your projects a professional finish. What makes it special is how it manages to make complex-looking stitches feel achievable, whether you're a beginner who's mastered the basics or an experienced crocheter seeking fresh inspiration.
The resource section at the back is like having a mini crochet mentor, complete with tips on how to read charts, and working with colour. If you're ready to level up your crochet game and add some wow to your projects, this book is worth adding to your crafting library.
In this excellent fantasy romance, Dura, a fierce orc warrior, finds herself in an impossible situation when her fated mate turns out to be Marvik, the enemy soldier she swore to kill. After making the outrageous decision to save him instead of letting him die, they're forced to go on the run together, hiding from both armies while navigating their complicated feelings for each other.
What I absolutely loved about this book:
A female orc MC who's allowed both powerful and feminine
A complex male love interest with strong principles
Great tropes: Enemies-to-lovers, forced proximity, one-bed scenario
Fast-paced plot with interesting political intrigue
Shows off both characters' fighting abilities without being gory
The spice scenes are both great and well-balanced with the plot
Spice Level:
Dark Eternity by Nimueh Virago is a beautifully written but sometimes challenging dark fantasy that weaves together the unique pairing of a butterfly goddess and mothman. The poetic, whimsical prose is undeniably gorgeous, with many quotable passages that showcase the author's talent for poetic description.
The premise is refreshingly original, and the magical elements - particularly the butterfly goddess Sorra and her dynamic with Rowe - offer something new to the fantasy genre.
However, while beautiful, the ethereal writing style can obscure rather than enhances the story. The plot can be difficult to follow, requiring frequent re-reading of passages to understand what's happening.
While the world-building and magical elements are detailed and intriguing, the narrative flow sometimes gets lost in ornate language. This book will likely appeal to readers who prioritise atmospheric, poetic prose over straightforward storytelling.
Those who enjoy untangling complex narratives and don't mind working a bit harder to follow the plot will find a gem here. However, readers who prefer more direct storytelling may struggle to stay engaged.
I recommend this novel for fans of lush, lyrical fantasy who don't mind sacrificing some initial clarity for beautiful prose.
Hot Girl Crochet is a fantastic guide for new crocheters.
The designs are beautiful, and the book inspires you to get creative with your colour choices. The instructions are easy to follow and focus more on techniques than just patterns, making it great for beginners. It includes a variety of projects, from items for your home to clothing.
I like that many of the clothing patterns are based on sizes of clothes you already have, but I wish there were more options for mid to plus sizes.
Overall, this book is sure to capture attention thanks to its fun title and lovely patterns.
Modern Sourdough is a delightful addition to any baker's cookbook collection. Michelle Eshkeri's detailed instructions for growing a sourdough starter offer a helpful starting point for bakers of all levels and the book only gets better from there.
I got into sourdough during the pandemic (like so many others), but I still had so much to learn and this book is definitely going to up my game. The book is hugely visually appealing, with gorgeous photos that made me want to start baking again immediately.
It features a wide range of bread recipes to suit every taste, from classic loaves to fancy pastries. This book even includes recipes for desserts and jams/spreads from Michelle's restaurant Margot, all of which look absolutely amazing.
Whether you're new to sourdough or looking to try something new, this book is a valuable resource. Get ready to up your baking game and enjoy the delicious flavours of homemade sourdough creations!
As a casual beginner at Asian cooking, I am thrilled with this cookbook. I was impressed by the helpful list of tools and common ingredients, which makes it perfect for beginners.
Even if you are a more experienced cook of Asian cuisine, this book still offers plenty of great recipes and technique tips. The beautiful photography brings the recipes to life and makes me eager to start cooking. The layout is clean and easy to follow, making navigating the recipes a breeze.
I can't wait to try out all the delicious recipes in this cookbook, including the dessert recipes. Whether you're new to cooking or looking to improve your Asian culinary skills, this cookbook will be a valuable addition to your kitchen. I'm excited to start cooking up a storm with this wonderful resource!
I loved this Halloween-themed romance novella, it was a perfect October pick-me-up!
In ‘The Heartbreak Hex', we get to know Gertrude Nightshade, a green-skinned potion witch whose life gets turned sideways when her werewolf boyfriend breaks up with her just before Halloween. In a (very) tipsy moment trying to mend her broken heart, she creates a potion that ties her (literally!) to handsome Vlad Everdark, the vampire mayor of the Halloween neighbourhood who always gets his morning beverage at her potion shop. As they deal with the craziness of being stuck together, Gertrude and Vlad explore their feelings, leading to a fun and heartwarming romance.
Where to start? The charming Holiday Village and its lore were very detailed, considering the length of this book. I loved all the nods to all the major Eurocentric holidays and characters, and I'm sure there will be more to come with some of the more often forgotten holidays.
I love Gertrude, she is a very believable heroine with a relatable experience, at least as far as the dumping by a boyfriend who doesn't appreciate her, and a loyal sister to support her. I love that she is shown as smart and determined, a woman who knows how to get what she wants.
Vlad Everdark was a charming and honourable hero, deserving of Gertrude's adoration. I loved how he is always respectful to Gertrude and her friends, and ready to fight for her (even if it's just with words). I wish we had a little bit more of exactly why he is so in love with her, other than he knew her at school and from his morning potion, but the fact that he adores her is obvious.
This story had a good little dash of spice, with plenty of tension-building moments and one nicely spicy scene, perfect for the story's length.
This novella is perfect for those who want light-hearted paranormal romances, cosy autumn stories, and anyone seeking an escape into a world of magic. If you like magical small towns, friends-to-lovers stories, and a bit of spice, this novella will put a smile on your face!
Jo Bartlett's “Finding Friends at the Cornish Country Hospital” is a nice clean read that explores friendship, love, and life's challenges in a heartwarming way. It has two narratives: Esther Hamilton is an A&E nurse navigating life after a breakup, and her mother Caroline is searching for purpose in retirement and a suddenly distant marriage.
The growing friendship between Esther and Joe Carter, her best friend's brother, adds a tender touch of rediscovered love to the story. While there is a bit of a romance, this may leave more heavy romance readers wanting more depth in the primary romantic subplot. Also, starting with the first book in this series may enhance enjoyment for new readers as recurring characters are reintroduced, but they don't overshadow in any way.
Bartlett's storytelling is simple and moving. The book handles heavy topics with sensitivity, including ageing, mental health, physical health, infidelity, death, and grief, providing readers with a touching and insightful experience. The first half of the book is especially loaded, so please check for trigger warnings - but know that there are more bright spots later on as well.
With engaging storytelling and thoughtful exploration of ageing, friendship, and romance, Finding Friends at the Cornish Country Hospital earns a solid four-star rating.
A big thank you to Boldwood and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.