Alba in bookland: Debbie Johnson

Today I am sharing my review for A Wedding at the Comfort Food Cafe by Debbie Johnson. This is the sixth and final installment in the Comfort Food Cafe series, which I have enjoyed immensely:

Title: A Wedding at the Comfort Food Cafe

Author: Debbie Johnson

Published: March 7th 2019 by HarperImpulse

Amazon | Amazon UK

Blurb: Wedding bells ring out in Budbury as the Comfort Food Café and its cosy community of regulars are gearing up for a big celebration…

But Auburn Longville doesn’t have time for that! Between caring for her poorly mum, moving in with her sister and running the local pharmacy, life is busy enough – and it’s about to get busier. Chaos arrives in the form of a figure from her past putting her quaint village life and new relationship with gorgeous Finn Jensen in jeopardy. It’s time for Auburn to face up to some life changing decisions.

Settle in for a slice of wedding cake at the Comfort Food Café – a place where friendships are made for life and nobody ever wants to leave.

Review: I love the Comfort Food Café. I've completely fallen in love with this series, its characters and of course, the cosy setting. Although I am sad that this is the last installment in the series, I think it was the right decision from the author, to end on a high note. Through the series, we have read about 6 amazing women, I have cheered for them and I have shared their joy at finding their own happy endings, and they will for sure keep a little piece of my heart.

But let's talk about this story now. It focuses on Auburn, who moved to Budbury a few month ago to help her sister Willow care for their mother. We don't know much about her, other than she has quite a wild past. I was really curious to find out more about her before Budbury, especially as quite a big secret is revealed quite early in the story.

This soon creates a lot of problems in her life and affects her new relationship. As we got to know more about this secret, I really had no idea how her story was going to end, as not everything was as black and white as it first looked like. And although I didn't always think that Auburn made the best choices, I liked that she was aware of her faults and always tried to be honest with everyone.

But my favourite part of the story was the wedding (and all the preparations leading up to it) of two of my favorite characters in the series, it was a great example of how lovely and supportive this community is and how they are aways ready to help each other. I loved catching up with all the regular characters. It was the perfect end to a gorgeous series. The Comfort Food Cafe might not be a real location but it has become a haven to escape to for a few hours, where there's always good food and lovely people.

Rating: 4.5 stars

I would like to thank the publisher for sending me a copy of this book via NetGalley. This is my honest opinion.

Today I am sharing with you my review for A Gift from the Comfort Food Cafe by Debbie Johnson. Don’t miss out on the new Comfort Food Cafe novel and return to Budbury for a Christmas to remember.

Title: A Gift from the Comfort Food Café (Comfort Food Cafe #5)

Author: Debbie Johnson

Published: October 18th 2018 by HarperCollins

Amazon | Amazon UK

Blurb: Christmas has never been Katie Seddon’s favourite time of year. Whilst everyone else shares memories of families coming together and festive number ones, the soundtrack to Katie’s childhood wasn’t quite so merry.

But since she moved to the village of Budbury on the gorgeous Dorset coast, Katie and her baby son have found a new family. A family who have been brought together by life’s unexpected roads and the healing magic of a slice of cake and a cupful of kindess at the Comfort Food Café.

This year, Katie’s new friends are determined to give her a Christmas to remember, and with a gorgeous newcomer in town, Katie’s Christmas wish for a happy home for her son might just come true.

Review: I love the Comfort Food Café. I've completely fallen in love with this series, its characters and of course, the cosy setting. Like the previous four stories in this series, this book can be perfectly read as a stand-alone as it has its own independent story, but I would highly recommend reading all the books, as each one of them is a real treat. And the big cast of characters can be a bit overwhelming for new readers.

This time, the focus falls on Katie. She has appeared a bit in previous books, but we just know that she is a single mum to a very active toddler and that she spends some afternoons in the Café. With this story though, we immediately discover Katie's past: coming from a very disrupted family, all her life she has been trying to escape, but she has never been sure of where to escape to.

Now she has something that she has never had before: people to rely on. Budbury's residents are a big family and they are determined to welcome Katie and her son with open arms. Something that might not have the desired effect on Katie herself...

As usual, author Debbie Johnson balanced the sadder and harder parts in Katie's story with the more humorous scenes perfectly. It's a story that can made you cry in one page and then make you laugh out loud in the following one. And of course, for fans of the series, it's a real treat to catch up with our favourite characters.

The only thing I didn't enjoy as much as in the previous books was actually the main character. Katie is a difficult character to like, especially at the beginning, as I couldn't understand some of her actions. But as the story unfolded, I also saw her change and evolve, which was very enjoyable.

But all in all, this turned out to be a magical story and the setting around Christmas was perfect to put me on the a festive mood. Definitely a story to enjoy on the run up to the holidays with a hot chocolate and some Christmas treats!

Rating: 4 stars

I would like thank the publisher for sending me a copy of this book via NetGalley. This is my honest opinion.

Today I am over the moon to share with you my review for Sunshine at the Comfort Food Cafe by Debbie Johnson. This is the fourth installment in the series, which is quickly becoming one of my favorite series ever. And this story is a real treat:

Title: Sunshine at the Comfort Food Café (Comfort Food Café #4)

Author: Debbie Johnson

Published: March 8th 2018 by HarperCollins

Amazon | Amazon UK

Blurb: Perched on a windswept cliff on the stunning Dorset coast at what feels like the edge of the world, the café and its warm-hearted community are a haven for lost souls who happen to wander by with a heavy heart and a story to tell.

Serving up the most delicious cream teas; beautifully baked breads, and carefully crafted cupcakes, there’s nothing a cup of tea and a delicious treat won’t fix. For tourists and locals alike, the ramshackle cafe overlooking the beach is a beacon of laughter, companionship, and security – a place like no other; a place that offers friendship as a daily special, and where a hearty welcome is always on the menu.

So make yourself at home, catch up on the gossip with old friends, meet new ones and fall in love at the Comfort Food Café.

Review: I love the Comfort Food Café. I've completely fallen in love with this series, its characters and of course, the cosy setting. I am so glad that Willow, who has been a secondary character in all other stories, gets the spotlight in this one. Like the other three, this book can be perfectly read as a stand-alone as it has its own independent story, but I would highly recommend reading all the books, as each one of them is a real treat.

Willow works part-time at the café but also runs her own cleaning business, although this gives her enough flexibility to care for her mother, who suffers from Alzheimers, she doesn't have time to have any kind of social live. A new arrival though makes her question if she really is coping with everything going on as well as she thought.

The relationship between Willow and her mother is portrayed in a very special way. Debbie Johnson paints a very clear picture of what it entails to care for a loved one that more often than not forgets who you are, with all its ups and downs. And as you get to know Willow better, you soon realise what a strong woman she is.

But she is not alone at all, once again, the tight knitted community of Budbury is always there, ready to help and comfort with tones of delicious food. This means we get to catch up with some old favourites and see how they are doing, which I enjoyed immensely.

I think that Debbie Johnson gets even better with every new book she releases and Sunshine at the Comfort Food Café might be my new favourite of hers. A beautiful and touching story that will steal many hearts, perfect escapism.

Rating: 5 stars

I would like to thank the publisher for sending me a copy of this book via NetGalley. This is my honest opinion.

A quick update on my moving situation: I'm surrounded by boxes and I still haven't rescued my books! However, the Husband has promised me a bookshelf with a ladder (a ladder!) so I am surviving... just! Good news is March is going to be such a great bookish month! I've actually read quite a few of these new releases already and I can tell you that some brilliant books are coming our way:

Ready to Fall by Marcella Pixley - March 1st

When Max Friedman's mother dies of cancer, instead of facing his loss, he imagines that her tumour has taken up residence in his brain. It's a terrible tenant - isolating him from family, distracting him in school, and taunton him mercilessly about his manhood. With the tumour in charge, Max implodes, slipping farther and farther away from reality.

Finally, Max is sent to the artsy, off-beat Baldwin School to regain his footing. He joins a group of theatre misfits in a steam-punk production of Hamlet where he becomes friends with Fish, a girl with pink hair and a troubled past, and The Monk, an edgy upperclassman who refuses to let go of the things he loves. For a while, Max almost feels happy. But his tumour is always lurking in the wings - until one night it knocks him down and Max is forced to face the truth, not just about the tumour, but about how hard it is to let go of the past. At turns lyrical, haunting, and triumphant, Ready to Fall is a story of grief, love, rebellion and starting fresh from acclaimed author Marcella Pixley.

Why so excited: I've recently received a review copy of this book and I am very intrigued. It sounds like a very special story that will probably break my heart a little.

Order it now!

Flying Tips for Flightless Birds by Kelly McCaughrain - March 1st

From debut author Kelly McCaughrain comes a sweet and kooky romcom for fans of R. J. Palacio's Wonder, Sarah Crossan, and Susin Nielsen's We Are All Made of Molecules. Twins Finch and Birdie Franconi are stars of the flying trapeze. But when Birdie suffers a terrifying accident, Finch must team up with the geeky new kid, Hector Hazzard, to form an all-boys double act and save the family circus school. Together they learn to walk the high-wire of teen life and juggle the demands of friends, family, first love and facing up to who they are – all served up with a dash of circus-showbiz magic.

Why so excited: first, I love the cover. It's so colourful and cute. And second, I love the circus. And if that wasn't enough, this story has describes as witty and clever and I'm sure it will surprise me more than once.

Order it now!

Almost Love by Louise O'neill - March 1st

When Sarah falls for Matthew, she falls hard.

So it doesn't matter that he's twenty years older. That he sees her only in secret. That, slowly but surely, she's sacrificing everything else in her life to be with him.

Sarah's friends are worried. Her father can't understand how she could allow herself to be used like this. And she's on the verge of losing her job.

But Sarah can't help it. She is addicted to being desired by Matthew.

And love is supposed to hurt.

Isn't it?

Why so excited: after two very important and powerful YA novels, Louise O'neill is releasing her first adult novel and the first reviews are saying it is honest, raw and bold. This will definitely jump to the top of my tbr pile.

Order it now!

The Key by Kathryn Hughes - March 1st

1956

It's Ellen Crosby's first day as a student nurse at Ambergate County Lunatic Asylum. When she meets a young woman committed by her father, and a pioneering physician keen to try out the various 'cures' for mental illness, little does Ellen know that a choice she will make is to change all their lives for ever...

2006

Sarah is drawn to the abandoned Ambergate Asylum. Whilst exploring the old corridors she discovers a suitcase belonging to a female patient who was admitted fifty years earlier. The shocking contents lead Sarah to unravel a forgotten story of tragedy, lost love and an old wrong that only she may have the power to put right...

It's time to discover what a million readers already know. No one grips your heart like Kathryn Hughes...

Why so excited: I've already read and reviewed this one and it is a very atmospheric, heartbreaking and intriguing read that will shock and surprise you. Check my full review here.

Order it now!

The Perfect Girlfriend by Karen Hamilton - March 8th

Juliette loves Nate.

She will follow him anywhere. She's even become a flight

attendant for his airline, so she can keep a closer eye on him.

They are meant to be.

The fact that Nate broke up with her six months ago means nothing.

Because Juliette has a plan to win him back.

She is the perfect girlfriend.

And she'll make sure no one stops her from

getting exactly what she wants.

True love hurts, but Juliette knows it's worth all the pain...

Why so excited: I have a review copy of this and it's gonna be my next read. I am very intrigued by the sound of it and I've seen some smashing early reviews already.

Order it now!

Bring Me Back by BA Paris - March 8th

The Disappearance

Twelve years ago Finn’s girlfriend disappeared.

The Suspicion

He told the police the truth about that night.

Just not quite the whole truth.

The Fear

Now Finn has moved on.

But his past won’t stay buried…

Why so excited: another one I've already read, and wow! It's a dark and twisted story that kept surprising me until the last page. Come back next week for my 5 stars review.

Order it now!

Sunshine at the Comfort Food Café by Debbie Johnson - March 8th

My name is Willow Longville. I live in a village called Budbury on the stunning Dorset coast with my mum Lynnie, who sometimes forgets who I am. I’m a waitress at the Comfort Food Café, which is really so much more than a café… it’s my home.

For Willow, the ramshackle café overlooking the beach, together with its warm-hearted community, offers friendship as a daily special and always has a hearty welcome on the menu. But when a handsome stranger blows in on a warm spring breeze, Willow soon realises that her quiet country life will be changed forever.

Why so excited: I love the Comfort Food Café. I've completely fallen in love with this series, its characters and of course, the cosy setting. I am so glad that Willow, who has been a secondary characters in all other stories, gets the spotlight in this one! Definitely one of my most anticipated books this year.

Order it now!

Hetty's Farmhouse Bakery by Cathy Bramley - March 22nd

Thirty-two-year-old Hetty Greengrass is the star around which the rest of her family orbits. Marriage, motherhood and helping Dan run Sunnybank Farm have certainly kept her hands full for the last twelve years. But when her daughter Poppy has to choose her inspiration for a school project and picks her aunt, not her mum, Hetty is left full of self-doubt.

Hetty’s always been generous with her time and until now, her biggest talent – baking deliciously moreish shortcrust pastry pies – has been limited to charity work and the village fete. But taking part in a competition run by Cumbria’s Finest to find the very best produce from the region might be just the thing to make her daughter proud... and reclaim something for herself.

Except that life isn’t as simple as producing the perfect pie. Changing the status quo isn’t easy – and with cracks appearing in her marriage and shocking secrets coming to light, Hetty must decide where her priorities really lie...

Why so excited: Well, Cathy Bramley is one of my favourite authors and her stories are like a ray of sunshine, so touching and up-lifting. This one sounds exactly like that and I cannot wait to discover it.

Order it now!

The Fear by CL Taylor - March 22nd

Sometimes your first love won’t let you go…

When Lou Wandsworth ran away to France with her teacher Mike Hughes, she thought he was the love of her life. But Mike wasn’t what he seemed and he left her life in pieces.

Now 32, Lou discovers that he is involved with teenager Chloe Meadows. Determined to make sure history doesn’t repeat itself, she returns home to confront him for the damage he’s caused.

But Mike is a predator of the worst kind, and as Lou tries to bring him to justice, it’s clear that she could once again become his prey…

Why so excited: If Cathy Bramley is my go-to author for feel-good stories, CL Taylor is my go-to for psychological thrillers. They are always SO good. And early reviews are saying that this is her best one yet. Who wouldn't be excited?

Order it now!

Last Letter Home by Rachel Gore - March 22nd

On holiday with friends, young historian Briony Andrews becomes fascinated with a wartime story of a ruined villa in the hills behind Naples. There is a family connection: her grandfather had been a British soldier during the Italian campaign of 1943 in that very area. Handed a bundle of letters that were found after the war, Briony sets off to trace the fate of their sender, Sarah Bailey.

In 1939, Sarah returns with her mother and sister from India, in mourning, to take up residence in the Norfolk village of Westbury. There she forms a firm friendship with Paul Hartmann, a young German who has found sanctuary in the local manor house, Westbury Hall. With the outbreak of war, conflicts of loyalty in Westbury deepen.

When, 70 years later, Briony begins to uncover Sarah and Paul’s story, she encounters resentments and secrets still tightly guarded. What happened long ago in the villa in the shadow of Vesuvius, she suspects, still has the power to give terrible pain…

Why so excited: I read this one a few weeks ago and I am still thinking about it. A very well-crafted dual-time story with love letters at its core. Who doesn't love a book with love letters?

Order it now!

The Allotment Girls by Kate Thompson - March 22nd

The Allotment Girls is an inspiring and heartwarming novel of wartime hardship, friendship and fortitude from Kate Thompson, author of the Secrets of the Sewing Bee.

During the Second World War, life in the iconic Bryant & May match factory is grimy and tough. Annie, Rose, Pearl and Millie carry on making matches for the British Army, with bombs raining down around them.

Inspired by the Dig for Victory campaign, Annie persuades the owners to start Bryant & May allotment in the factory grounds. With plenty of sweat and toil, the girls eventually carve out a corner of the yard into a green plot full of life and colour.

In the darkest of times, the girls find their allotment a tranquil, happy escape. Using pierced dustbin lids to sieve through the shrapnel and debris, they bring about a powerful change, not just in the factory, but their own lives.

As the war rages on, the garden becomes a place of community, friendship – and deceit. As the garden thrives and grows, so do the girls' secrets...

Why so excited: this is Kate Thompson's fourth book and after having read and loved the three previous ones, I am, of course, really looking forward to this one. I always love getting these glimpses of what living in the East End was like during WWII.

Order it now!

Tin Man by Sarah Winman - March 23rd

It begins with a painting won in a raffle: fifteen sunflowers, hung on the wall by a woman who believes that men and boys are capable of beautiful things.

And then there are two boys, Ellis and Michael, who are inseparable. And the boys become men, and then Annie walks into their lives, and it changes nothing and everything.

Tin Man sees Sarah Winman follow the acclaimed success of When God Was A Rabbit and A Year Of Marvellous Ways with a love letter to human kindness and friendship, loss and living.

Why so excited: Described as an exquisitely crafted tale of love and loss, Tin Man was first published last year as a hardback and the paperback is finally coming out this month. It looks and sounds stunning.

Order it now!

Top Ten Tuesday is an original feature/weekly meme created at The Broke and the Bookish. This feature was created because they are particularly fond of lists over there at The Broke and the Bookish. And who doesn't love a good list?

I haven't done a Top Ten Tuesday for a while but I think this week’s topic is really interesting. So I wanted to join again. Do you ever read a book and wish you could step in and enjoy a coffee in the café from the book? I do all the time! So I've picked the ten fictional places or business I would love to step in the most!

The Comfort Food Café - Comfort Food Café Series by Debbie Johnson

I fell completely in love with this cafe and its lively community with the first book and with every new addition to the series, my love for this place only grows. Its lovely if not a bit crazy owner has created a heaven for all its regulars and they all have their own specials. A real sense of community.

The Palace Cinema - The Picture House by the Sea by Holly Hepburn

Polwhipple is this small village in Cornall, where everyone knows about everything going on but also where everybody is ready to help. I had lost a bit of its sparkle, until Gina arrived and revived the old cinema house, The Palace. She organises the most amazing and fun screening, in which people dress up and there are cocktail and ice-creams specially created for the movies showing. Wouldn't you want to go there?

The Practice at Larkford - Out of Practice and Practice Makes Perfect by Penny Parkes

I usually associate going to the doctor with bad news but I think that if I could go to the practice in Larkford, it would definitely make my doctor visits way more interesting. With sexy doctors, lovely pets, a local celebrity and a TV crew, this practice is the best place to socialise! Plus, the doctors are so caring and you can tell that they love their jobs.

Moonlight Hotel - Summer Nights at the Moonlight Hotel by Jane Costello

The Moonlight Hotel sits on the shore of England’s best-loved lake, Windermere, exuding vintage glamour. How amazing sounds this? I loved the setting for this lovely story and I would definitely love to stay in this hotel. I would also love to learn some Salsa.

Glamping Site - My Not So Perfect Life by Sophie Kinsella

In this heart-lifting and inspiring story, main character Caz leaves a not so perfect life in London behind to help her dad open a glamping site. The ideas she comes up with are amazing and I would love to be able to disconnect there for a few days and enjoy nature. But maybe not join the courses she creates for her old boss...

Juniper Island - A Town Called Christmas Series by Holly Martin

This series has the perfect setting. I think I had never wished a fictional place was real so much (except for Hogwarts). Juniper island sounds just magical and I want to move there indefinitely. It's supposed to be part of the Shetland Islands and the northernmost point of the British Isles. It is also a prime location to spot the northern lights or merrie dancers, as the locals call them. And Gabe Whitaker has built an amazing winter resort with cabins, glass igloos and even a glass palace. Oh and reindeer! How cool is that?

Culinary School - The Plumberry School of Comfort Food by Cathy Bramley

I've read quite a lot of foody novels in which the story is set in a bakery or a tea shop and even if I usually enjoy these settings, sometimes I feel like I am reading the same story again and again. So I was greatly surprised to discover a very original setting for this one: a culinary school, with lots of fun course I'd love to attend, competitions and events.

The Canal Boat Café by Cressida McLaughlin

I loved the setting for this story: a canal boat. I've always been fascinated by these boats and every time I've seen one you can visit (on a tour or because it's a café or a shop) I haven't been able to resist having a look inside. So reading about The Canal Boat Café was a real treat. Especially seeing it flourishing as Summer started taking it more seriously.

Alden toy shop - The Hygge Holiday by Rosie Blake

Alden toy shop is about to close when Clara Kristensen arrives to save the day. Her creative and detailed ideas make the shop a great success and her window displays sound amazing. I really wish I could go there to see them and then buy a few Christmas presents.

Book shop - Lost For Words by Stephanie Butland

Who doesn't love a good book shop? But what makes this one so special are its characters. On one had we have owner Archie, he is a people person, easily chatting to everyone and with a certain eccentricity that far from making him arrogant and unapproachable made him endearing and generous. He would be a friend that we would all love to have. In the other hand we have the very special Lovejoy, who has worked in the shop for ten years and who definitely prefers books to people. I would love to just go there and have a bookish chat with them.

Today I am over the moon to share with you my review for Coming Home to the Comfort Food Cafe by Debbie Johnson. This is the third installment in the series, which is quickly becoming one of my favorite series ever. And this story is a real treat:

Title: Coming Home to the Comfort Food Cafe (Comfort Food Café #3)

Author: Debbie Johnson

Published: October 7th by HarperImpulse

Amazon | Amazon UK

Blurb: ‘Full of quirky characters, friendship and humour, you will devour this engaging and heartwarming novel in one sitting’ – Sunday Express

Come home to the Comfort Food Café and cosy up with a mug of hot chocolate and an extra sprinkle of romance!

When Zoe’s best friend Kate dies of breast cancer, her whole world is turned upside down. Within hours, she goes from being the wacky neighbour who can barely keep a houseplant alive to a whole new world of responsibility when she realises she’s guardian to Kate’s 15-year-old daughter, Martha.

Moving to the little village of Budbury, Zoe hopes the fresh Dorset sea breeze and the gentle pace of life will help them heal.

Luckily for them both, the friendly community at the Comfort Food Cafe provide listening ears, sage advice, shoulders to cry on, and some truly excellent carrot cake. And when Martha’s enigmatic, absent father suddenly turns up, confusing not only Martha but Zoe too, the love and friendship of their new friends is the best present they could have asked for…

Review: last year I had the pleasure of reading Summer at the Comfort Food Cafe and Christmas at the Comfort Food Cafe and I fell completely in love with this cafe and its lively community. So when Debbie Johnson announced she was writing another full novel set in the cafe, I was over the moon. This time the story has a new cast of characters joining the regulars so if you haven't read the previous parts (why haven't you? They are amazing!), you can easily read this one as it has its own stand-alone story.

First of all, let me say this, as I didn't think it was possible... but Coming Home to the Comfort Food Cafe is even better than its predecessors. It's a story full of heart and delivers so much more than you expect. New characters Zoe and Martha are not your conventional family and they have been in a very dark place for a few months, but when they arrive at Budbury, the locals welcome them with open arms and open hearts.

The more we got to know Zoe and Martha, the more I liked them. They reminded me a bit of the original cast Laura and her moody teen daughter Lizzie and they actually soon became a great support for them. Their story was touching and very sad at times (I might haves shed a few tears while reading about them) but author Debbie Johnson balanced the sadness with the humour perfectly. The story was full of hilarious moments and little by little you could see these two opening up to their new community. A real joy to read.

There's nothing I didn't like... no wait, scratch that, there's nothing I didn't love in this story. Catching up with this bunch was a treat but getting to know the new characters was even better. I hadn't read a story that had left me with such a great feeling of joy and a such a warm heart in a long while. Debbie Johnson fans, this is her best yet, you cannot miss it! And if you are not familiar with her books, then you have to rectify that. Fast. Pick this up asap!

The setting around Christmas made this story even more magical but I'd say this is a story that can be enjoyed at any time. Even better with a nice hot chocolate to go with. I cannot wait for the next installment in this series (yes, there'll be one next spring *excited face*).

Rating: 5 stars

I would like to thank the publisher for sending me a copy of this book via NetGalley. This is my honest opinion.

October has come already and has caught me quite by surprise! A few days late this month, but I wanted to share the new releases I am excited about because there are a few that have SO SO excited. Here they are:

Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban: Illustrated Edition - October 3rd

An extraordinary creative achievement by an extraordinary talent, Jim Kay's inspired reimagining of J.K. Rowling's classic series has captured a devoted following worldwide. This stunning new fully illustrated edition of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban brings more breathtaking scenes and unforgettable characters - including Sirius Black, Remus Lupin and Professor Trelawney. With paint, pencil and pixels, Kay conjures the wizarding world as we have never seen it before. Fizzing with magic and brimming with humour, this full-colour edition will captivate fans and new readers alike as Harry, now in his third year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, faces Dementors, death omens and - of course - danger.

Why so excited: I am absolutely loving this illustrated editions and I cannot wait for the next one. I have ordered my copy and waiting for it! Jim Cay is creating such beautiful and magical images that I feel like I am discovering this beloved world all over again.

Order it now!

Moonlight Over Manhattan by Sarah Morgan - October 5th

She'll risk everything for her own Christmas miracle…

Determined to conquer a lifetime of shyness, Harriet Knight challenges herself to do one thing a day in December that scares her, including celebrating Christmas without her family. But when dog-walker Harriet meets her newest client, exuberant spaniel Madi, she adds an extra challenge to her list – dealing with Madi's temporary dog-sitter, gruff doctor Ethan Black, and their very unexpected chemistry.

Ethan thought he was used to chaos, until he met Madi – how can one tiny dog cause such mayhem? To Ethan, the solution is simple – he will pay Harriet to share his New York apartment and provide 24-hour care. But there's nothing simple about how Harriet makes him feel.

Ethan's kisses make Harriet shine brighter than the stars over moonlit Manhattan. But when his dog-sitting duties are over, and Harriet returns to her own home, will she dare to take the biggest challenge of all – letting Ethan know he has her heart for life, not just for Christmas?

Why so excited: Well, it is a Christmas book by Sarah Morgan, the queen of Christmas, what else can I tell you? Ah yes! It's set in NYC! Who wouldn't be excited with this?

Order it now!

The Dollmaker of Krakow by R.M. Romero - October 5th

A timeless fantasy set in the Second World War that weaves together magic, folklore and history, perfect for fans of The Book Thief, The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas and Goodnight Mister Tom.

One night a little doll named Karolina comes to life in a toyshop in Krakow, Poland, in 1939 and changes the life of the gruff, broken-hearted Dollmaker. And when the darkness of the Nazi occupation sweeps over the city, Karolina and the Dollmaker must bravely use their magic to save their Jewish friends from a terrible danger, no matter what the risks. This powerful story is about finding friendship in the darkest of places and the importance of love in times of great pain.

Why so excited: I received this one already and I cannot even start to describe how beautiful this book is. I am really curious to find out more about this story but it certainly sounds like my kind of book.

Order it now!

Coming Home to the Comfort Food Café by Debbie Johnson - October 8th

Welcome to the cosy Comfort Food Café, where there's kindness in every cup of hot chocolate and the menu is sprinkled with love and happiness…

Moving to the little village of Budbury, Zoe hopes the crisp Dorset sea breeze and gentle pace of life will be a fresh start for her and her goddaughter, Martha.

Luckily for them both, the friendly community at the café provide listening ears, sage advice, shoulders to cry on, and some truly excellent carrot cake. And when Martha's enigmatic, absent father suddenly turns up, confusing not only Martha but Zoe too, the love and support of their new-found friends is the best present they could ask for.

Have Zoe and Martha truly found their home at the Comfort Food Café?

Why so excited: I fell in love with the Comfor Food Café and its characters last year already so I am over the moon to have the opportunity to revisit this magical place during the most magical season of the year.

Order it now!

The Treatment by C.L. Taylor - October 19th

“You have to help me. We’re not being reformed. We’re being brainwashed.”

All sixteen year old Drew Finch wants is to be left alone. She's not interested in spending time with her mum and stepdad and when her disruptive fifteen year old brother Mason is expelled from school for the third time and sent to a residential reform academy she's almost relieved.

Everything changes when she's followed home from school by the mysterious Dr Cobey, who claims to have a message from Mason. There is something sinister about the ‘treatment’ he is undergoing. The school is changing people.

Determined to help her brother, Drew must infiltrate the Academy and unearth its deepest, darkest secrets.

Before it’s too late.

Why so excited: this is C.L. Taylor's first YA story and it is SO good. I have loved all her previous books but this one is one of the most addictive, tense and clever books I have read in a while. Review coming very soon!

Order it now!

Christmas in St Ives by Miranda Dickinson - October 19th

A wonderfully festive ebook short that will get you excited for the Christmas season, by the author of the bestselling Fairytale of New York.

'This is Miranda at her sparkliest best. Christmas In St Ives is Christmassy perfection; brimming with romance, warmth and magic. But it’s not just a novella, it’s a tantalizing prequel to Somewhere Beyond The Sea and I can’t wait to read that!' Cathy Bramley, author of The Lemon Tree Cafe.

Heartbroken Cerrie Austin is doing her best to hold it together in the run up to Christmas. Not easy when her cheating ex works in the same school and everyone’s eyes are on her. The last thing she needs is a new teacher meddling in her beloved nativity play, even if he is charming, handsome and a talented musician. The Christmas performance is her pride and joy, and she won’t be undermined.

Seren McArthur has recently returned to her Cornish hometown and is enjoying being close to her family and her oldest friends again. St Ives is at its most magical at Christmas, with fairy lights and tinsel in every shop window, tempting locals and holidaymakers alike as they pick up gifts. But an exciting opportunity is just around the corner: will she stay or will she go?

Meanwhile, the St Ives Christmas celebrations are in crisis: plans for a giant lantern parade through the starlit streets have ground to a halt. As the snow starts to fall, can Cerrie, Seren and their friends Kieran and Aggie rally around in time to save the big day?

Christmas in St Ives is a charming novella that introduces you to the characters from Miranda Dickinson’s upcoming novel, Somewhere Beyond the Sea. Available for preorder now!

Why so excited: I love Miranda Dickinson's books and this year she is releasing this festive novella as a prequel before we get a new full novel next year and I couldn't be any happier! I cannot wait to discover this new set of characters.

Order it now!

Today I'm reviewing Debbie Johnson's latest book, The A-Z of Everything, a very original and moving story. A bit more serious than her earlier books. Read my thoughts here:

Title: The A-Z of Everything

Author: Debbie Johnson

Published: April 20th 2017 by Harper

Amazon | Amazon UK

Blurb: P is for Paris where it all began. J is for Jealousy where it all came undone. But the most important letter is F. F is for Forgiveness, the hardest of all.

Sisters Poppy and Rose used to be as close as two sisters could be, but it’s been over a decade since they last spoke. Until they both receive a call that tells them their mother has gone – without ever having the chance to see her daughters reunited.

Andrea, though, wasn’t the kind of woman to let a little thing like death stand in the way of her plans. Knowing her daughters better than they know themselves, she has left behind one very special last gift – the A-Z of Everything.

Review: The A-Z of Everything is like nothing that Debbie Johnson has written until now. Her books are known for her humour and her love stories but this one is considerably more serious and love takes a whole new role. Does this mean that I didn't enjoy this story as much as her previous ones? In the contrary, I loved it even more.

The story is all about Andrea, who has just passed away, and her daughters. Poppy and Rose haven't talked to each other for years, something that broke their mother's heart. But Andrea has left them with a huge challenge, two boxes full of videos, letters, cassettes, photos, stories and instructions. She hopes she'll achieve something that she wasn't able to while she was alive: bring her girls together again.

As Poppy and Rose reluctantly accept to follow their mother's instructions, we get to know them better. Thanks to flashbacks to their past, we soon realise what a special relationship they had, and I had became really engaged with their story. I couldn't understand how their relationship had become nothing. And I couldn't not root for them. It was obvious that it was not going to be an easy task to bring them together, but Andrea definitely was one in a million.

In fact, for me the star of the story was Andrea. Her love for her daughters was in every tiny detail, her letters and videos brought tears to my eyes but her stories also made me laugh more than once. What a formidable woman. A special mention also for Lewis, Andrea's best friend. I instantly warmed to him and even if his scenes in the story were few, his presence was huge.

All in all, this story left me in awe. What a beautiful and moving story. Such detail and such originality! Definitely Debbie Johnson's at her best. I'm sure this book will touch many hearts.

Rating: 5 stars

I'd like to thank the publisher for sending me a copy of this book. This is my honest opinion.

New month means new books, right? As usual, I'm sharing my top new releases for this month. It's looking like it's going to be a very interesting month with releases by some of my favourite authors!

Catch Me If You Cannes by Lisa Dickenson - April 3rd

WARNING: reading Catch Me If You Cannes may result in embarrassing outbursts of belly-aching laughter on public transport. Romantic, funny and full of Cannes Film Festival magic, it's perfect for fans of Giovanna Fletcher, Paige Toon and Mhairi McFarlane.

Jess has decided it's time to get out of her comfort zone and live a little. So when her best friend Bryony, a journalist on a gossip magazine, is sent to cover the Cannes Film Festival, Jess decides to seize the day and go along for the ride. Two weeks of sun, glamour and exclusive entry into celeb-filled parties is just the kind of adventure Jess needs.

Reality soon bites though when Jess and Bryony find they're staying in a dingy hotel far away from all the action and Bryony's expenses budget barely covers a glass of local wine. Undeterred, the two women are determined to live like the elite and enjoy one fancy night out to begin their holiday. So what if they have to tell a few white lies along the way? It's just this once. No harm done... right?

Full of hilarious one-liners, sparkling blue seas and plenty of romantic moments, Catch Me If You Cannes is the story of two friends, a few white lies and one very sticky situation...

Why so excited: I had the pleasure of reading this story when it was first released as a serialised enovel and I loved every single page! It's now out as a whole novel, in ebook format today and paperback next month. Don't miss it!

Pre-order now!

The Choir on Hope Street by Annie Lyons - April 6th

The best things in life happen when you least expect them.

Nat’s husband has just said the five words no one wants to hear – ‘I don’t love you anymore’.

Picture-perfect Caroline has to welcome her estranged mother into her house after she was forced out of an exclusive nursing home.

Living on the same street these two women couldn’t be more different. Until the local community centre is threatened, galvanising Caroline and the people of Hope Street into action. But when the only way to save the centre is to form a community choir – no one, least of all Nat, expects the results…

This spring, hope is coming!

Why so excited: I have really enjoyed Annie Lyons' previous books so I was over the moon to get a review copy of her new one. It's my current read and I'm having so much fun reading it. Keep an eye for my review later this week.

Pre-order now!

Spring at Blueberry Bay by Holly Martin - April 7th

Welcome to beautiful Hope Island where the sea sparkles, the daffodils are blooming and a blossoming romance is just around the corner…
Bella has always had a sunny outlook and caring nature, despite recently falling on hard times. When she finds a handsome homeless man on her doorstep, her kind heart tells her she must help him. So, she invites Isaac into her cottage and into her life in ways she could never have imagined…

But Isaac is not what he seems. He’s keeping a huge secret from Bella, yet he never expected to fall for this open, generous and charming woman.

Bella can’t ignore the chemistry between her and Isaac, but she’s had her trust badly broken in her past. Will she run when she learns the truth about Isaac, or will he be the one man who can help Bella believe in love again?

A gorgeously romantic and heartwarming story to completely lose yourself in. Perfect for fans of Sarah Morgan, Jane Costello and Miranda Dickinson.
Why so excited: A new Holly Martin book! How can I not be excited? She never disappoints and her magical stories are always full of surprises and romances. I'll be part of the Blog Tour next week.

Pre-order now!

Then. Now. Always. by Isabelle Broom - April 20th

Hannah can't believe it when she's offered a trip to sunny Spain with her best friend and dreamy boss..1 what's the catch?

Twenty-eight year old Hannah is ready for an adventure. She and her colleagues are in Spain for a month to film a documentary, and it's a dream come true. Not least because Hannah will get to spend long summer days with Theo, her boss (and crush). If only Tom (Hannah's best friend and cameramen) and Claudette (the presenter) would stop getting in the way...

Then things become even more complicated when Nancy, Hannah's half-sister arrives. What on earth is she doing here?

For once in her life, can't Hannah just have one perfect summer, free of any drama?

Why so excited: After loving Isabelle Broom's previous two novels, how can I not be excited for a new story? This one is set in the south of Spain and I'm sure it'll become my next holiday destination!

Pre-order now!

The Woman at Number 24 by Juliet Ashton - April 20th

Meet the residents of number 24 in the warm, witty and wonderful new novel from bestselling author Juliet Ashton.

When your marriage falls apart, the last place you'd want your husband to move to is downstairs. Unfortunately for Sarah, up in the eaves at number 24, her ex-husband now lives one floor beneath her with his new wife. Their happiness floats up through the floorboards, taunting her.

A child psychologist, Sarah has picked up great sadness from the little girl, Una, who lives with her careworn mother three floors below, but is Sarah emotionally equipped to reach out?

The Spring brings a new couple to the house. Jane and Tom's zest for life revives the flagging spirits, and Sarah can't deny the instant attraction to handsome Tom. Having seen at first hand what infidelity does to people, she'll never act on it ... but the air fizzes with potential.

The sunshine doesn't reach every corner of number 24, however. Elderly Mavis, tucked away in the basement, has kept the world at bay for decades. She's about to find out that she can't hide forever.

Juliet Ashton weaves a story of love, friendship and community that will move you to laughter and to tears. Think Cold Feet meets David Nicholls, with a dash of the joy of Jill Mansell added for good measure.

Why so excited: I only discovered Juliet Ashton last year but I fell instantly in love with her writing so when I first heard about this one, it immediately entered my wish list. I really cannot wait to read this one, it sound exactly like my kind of read.

Pre-order now!

The A-Z of Everything by Debbie Johnson - April 20th

P is for Paris where it all began. J is for Jealousy where it all came undone. But the most important letter is F. F is for Forgiveness, the hardest of all.

Why so excited: Debbie Johnson is also an author I discovered last year and became a firm favourite of mine. I've read already some great reviews for this story and I couldn't be more excited to read it myself.

Pre-order now!