Thoughts Opinions & Memories | But I Smile Anyway...

August 2025 Books #AmReading

31 Aug 2025 7 Comments

by Ritu in Thoughts Opinions & Memories Tags: #AmReading, Am Listening, Blog, Blog Post, Blogger, Blogging, Book Review, Book Reviews, books, Fiction, Goodreads, Netgalley, reading, romance

And just like that we have come to the end of August, and my summer holidays, ready to start a new academic year in September!

I’ve still been reading ARCS and listening to audiobooks while walking… but what else did I do?

We had quite a bit going on this month, with the end of our vacation, meeting my niece and her daughter for a girly break in London, going to Birmingham to see my parents, and attending the RNA Summer Fling!

I’ve seen family who I haven’t met for years, and we have said goodbye to a family member, too.

I have ventured into school on several occasions to set up my new nursery classroom, too, supported by my two TAs for the year.

Did I write? Well, finally, I have something to report! YES I DID! I returned from my holiday with an idea for another Chickpea Curry Lit story, unrelated to the Rishtay Series, but a new holiday romance-style book. EEK! I am so excited!

However, I kept reading and listening, thoroughly enjoying my books.

Now, back to this month’s reads/listens. There were ARCS and Audiobook listens…

Six Little Words by Sally Page
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Sally Page’s books are always great and a must-read for me.
It took me a while longer to get into, maybe because I was away, but the story revolves around a diverse group of people, brought together by a small orange card pinned to a notice board in a cafe. To be or not to be…
Bardy and Kate are the two main characters, with Bardy, a newly separated former teacher, running a group for creatives in the area, and Kate, a single mother to two adult children, who has a special interest in painting.
They have one of those connections that you, as a reader, can feel from early on, but life keeps throwing curveballs at them.
The group comprises interesting characters, and somehow, all their stories overlap, allowing you to get to know and love each of the different people.
It’s a story that creeps up on you, then hooks you in, leaving you wanting to keep reading.
Many thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins for the ARC.

The Secret Diary of a Bengali Bridezilla by Halima Khatun
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Oh my goodness, I had such fun listening to this audiobook as I walked, with laugh-out-loud moments, and could relate to many of the situations our hapless Bridezilla goes through!
From letting her parents know she had found a suitor, without letting them know she had actually found and met him herself, to the rigmaroles of setting dates, wedding shopping, managing family expectations, and the always-present aunties… this was a true delight to listen to.
I have the rest of the series on my TBR, but I would love it if they were all on Audiobook!

Paper Heart by Cecelia Ahern
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A beautifully crafted story about a woman trapped in a situation, and how she finally breaks free.
Pip is a 32-year-old woman who still lives at home with her parents and 16-year-old daughter, Bella.
She has spent the last 16 years living a life filled with guilt at having fallen pregnant so young, conforming to all the ideals her parents wish to portray.
Her only saving grace, besides her beautiful daughter, is her passion for art, origami and poetry, which she keeps hidden from everyone.
Many threads run through this tale, but a strong one is shame, as Pip’s mother has never really got over her child having a baby so young. Then there is control, where Pip has spent most of her adult life relying on her mother and father, as they have never fostered a sense of independence in her, and how a local wealthy family holds power over the family, as well as regret, stemming from Pip’s non-existent mother-daughter relationship with Bella.
I don’t want to regurgitate the story, but it comes full circle, and it is a joy to see Pip finally grow a backbone and begin to live the life she should have been living all these years.
Many thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins for an ARC.

All Mine by Pippa Nixon
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A great simmering summer read!
Isabella Tucci is nearing the end of a year in which she aimed to prove to herself that she could be her own woman. Intending to fulfil her lifelong dream of opening a restaurant, she is almost there. Having moved to a small village and found her premises. And the other part of that year-long promise to herself was to be reliant on no one, especially men, so a no-sex ban has been in place.
It’s been hard enough getting over her marriage breakdown, but finally, things are falling into place.
Then she meets Etienne.
Scoping out the competition, she can’t help but notice the sexy restaurant owner whose business is on the opposite side of the square to hers. And he’s noticed her.
The story follows the last three months of her year, and it’s touch-and-go whether that business will be ready, and the no men/sex? Well, let’s say there may be quite a bit of touch, but will she let go?
The author utilises WhatsApp groups as a medium of communication and scene setting between Isabella and her family, as well as a group with her newfound local friends. Then there is Etienne’s group with his close friends.
And the cast of characters supporting Isabella and Etienne is all brilliant, leaving me with many questions about who will be the focus of the following story. Because Etienne is not the only gorgeous guy in this book, his friends are in the Adonis category too!
There is drama and tension both within the general story and the build-up of the relationship between Isabella and Etienne, and it all makes for a fantastic, spicy read in parts!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Quercus Books for an ARC.

You Had Me at Pumpkin Patch by Anita Faulkner
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

You know, sometimes, you just want to read something that will make you feel good, and this is exactly what Anita Faulkner’s books do to me. It’s been a while since her last one, so I was thrilled to be able to read it.
Rosie is on her way back home after finding out that AI had taken over her life in far too many ways, from her job, to elements of her relationship. But her car breaks down, and she finds herself at a farm, intending to ask for help. The help manifests differently from what she expected; not a phone call to the local recovery company, but as a job. And not one she is qualified for!
The farm has a ramshackle farmhouse filled with a menagerie of strays, and the owner thinks she is there to work.
Rosie finds herself in a small, gorgeous, cut-off wooden lodge-like house, where all sorts of inspiration begins to hit, and her neighbour happens to be a rather handsome pumpkin farmer. Zain. But he’s a bit gruff.
So we have some Grumpy: Sunshine, Enemies to Lovers-like vibes going on.
What ensues is a personal adventure, where we see Rosie grow in confidence, and reach for what she really wants, cold water swimming, sizzling slow burn romance, and lots and lots of pumpkins! And I cannot forget Steve the three-legged cat. Another real character!
I also loved the mention of some of the author’s previous book characters in this story as little cameos.
Many thanks to NetGalley and HQ Digital for an ARC.

The Windsor Love Connection: Will she give love a second chance? by Lizzie Chantree
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Don’t you love a series? A good one, where you get to know new characters, whilst also keeping track of others you’ve met before? It’s like a family reunion!
That’s how I felt when reading Book 2 of The Windsor Riverside Romance series, and Kudos to the author, Lizzie Chantree, for creating such a memorable world.
A character who had been briefly mentioned in the first book, Daisy, returns to Windsor, where she grew up, but also where she left many stories and severed relationships. She’s back with her daughter, Bronte, as a single parent, with a lot of unpicking to do, as well as growing up.
Maya, one of her best friends, encourages her to set up home in a new block of flats on the riverside and to build her fledgling garden design business. But what she omits to mention is that her neighbour ends up being Maya’s brother, Arthur, who is also an old friend/flame of Daisy.
But Daisy has to work through a lot of emotions and rebuild her friendships and relationships, as well as learn to fit back in.
There is so much tension, and honestly, it feels like every single man in this part of Windsor is fit!
But she comes good in the end, and we are left with a taster of what the third book will be about. I am eager to read it!

Watermelon by Marian Keyes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I finally got around to the beginning of the Walsh series by Marian Keyes!
I love listening to the story with an authentic Irish lilt. It makes it even more real.
The story is about Claire, one of the Walsh sisters. She is happily married and about to give birth, only to find that once she is handed her beautiful baby girl, she is also husbandless, as James chooses this time to tell her he is leaving, as he has found someone else.
Claire flies back to Ireland to her family home from London, distraught and trying to work out how to be a good mum, on top of processing her husband’s deceit.
Yes, there is sadness, and it all takes its toll on her, but with the Walsh family around, there are so many giggle-some laughs to get through the challenging situations.
Listening to Claire grow as a person, well, grow a backbone, was brilliant, and I’m glad she met the hunky Adam, to help her get over her idiot of a husband, even though that situation was also a bit hairy!
I’ve downloaded all the rest to listen to, too, finally!

One of my first September Blog Tours! Pop back to read the review!

Another of my blog tours in early September. I have read this previously, too, and now, the updated version!

Summer At The Lake by Erica James
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A beautifully written and narrated story, encompassing friendships and long-lost loves, as well as new relationships forged after an accident.
The story revolves around Floriana, a young woman involved in a hit-and-run, Adam, the man who comes to her rescue, and Esme, an older lady who also witnessed the event.
Their friendship deepens as they learn more about each other.
In a twist of fate, a wedding Floriana has been invited to, on Lake Como in Italy, sparks memories for Esme of her first love during a holiday there after the war.
The three of them find themselves in Italy, where Floriana has two good friends to support her attendance at a wedding she would rather not be at, and Esme seeks out information about the one that got away.
Beautiful, and emotional, with a wonderful ending to finish it off.

A Picture-Perfect Christmas by Liam Livings
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
A fabulous festive read, filled with grumpy/sunshine vibes, and all the spicy vibes you want for a truly magical Christmas romance!
So, we have Christophe, a reality TV star, a council estate boy done good, with not much more than his personality and handsome looks. Loud, brash, and used to his way.
And he wants a portrait painted.
And on the flip side is artist Thomas. Shy and not a lover of attention (some may even say boring…), he’s bowled over in more than one way by his newest client, who appears the total opposite of himself.
There is sizzling chemistry from the off, and as we all know, opposites attract.
Though they fight it for a while, getting snowed in at Thomas’s house over Christmas gives both of them a chance to get to know one another without their masks on. And at some points, without clothes on, too, wink wink!
There is everything there, from the cosy Christmassy setting to the glitz and glamour of fame and star-studded events, with plenty of angst and even more spice!

Releasing in November, 2025

All Wrapped Up by Heidi Swain
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Seasonal books are always fantastic, and this influx of autumnal books is terrific, so cosy, like a hug in a book!
We travel to Wynbridge, where influencer Clemmie Bridge has lived for the past 18 months. She’s kept herself to herself, renovating and decorating her cottage, as well as building up a community of autumn-loving followers on her Instagram account that is all things Autumn.
A chance meeting with a local who has decided to pop in and visit the reclusive new resident gets Clemmie involved in a huge local autumn festival – something she would love, but also something that could catapult her back into an awful situation she had removed herself from previously.
The book is a journey for Clemmie as she slowly builds her trust in a few people and begins to engage with the local community, all while protecting her fragile heart.
Clemmie meets some real characters, including Lizzie, who is the reason she finally gets out into the real world, along with the other Cherry Tree Cafe girls, and Molly, the local ‘witch’ as well as Ash, the gorgeous, sensitive vet who is there for Clemmie in many situations, but will he help her to heal her heart?
Of course, I can’t review this book without mentioning Pixie, the little rescue dog who Clemmie finds herself with – a beautiful bundle of love who helps to anchor her.
There is sadness, but there is also hope. There is grief, alongside acceptance. And there is autumn – lots of it!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Simon and Schuster for an ARC.

This was a wonderful pre-Second World War time read, and I am excited as it is the first in a series! I will be in the Blog Tour in September, if you wish to get the full review, but it is definitely 5 star!

Another one where I am on the Blog Tour in September and a real feast of family secrets, twists and turns!

The Ladies’ Midnight Swimming Club by Faith Hogan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Another of my audiobook listens, and I can honestly say it was a beautiful listen.
The story revolves around four central characters; Elisabeth, an older woman who has just lost her husband and finds out about huge debts that he had hidden; Jo, her friend, who wants to support Elizabeth but has other issues that she is trying to suppress; Lucy, Jo’s daughter, a single mum to teenager Niall, who she has to bring back to her sleepy hometown by the coast for the summer, rather than the busy, more teen-friendly Dublin, and Dan, a scriptwriter from London who has had a string of bad luck, and who hopes that some time in a sleepy backwater in Ireland may spark some inspiration, as well as help him find out some of his own home truths.
Through their connections, the ladies embark on a regular midnight swim in the sea, and this thread runs through the story, which is substance-filled, emotional, and endearing.
I was sure I would end up in tears on my walk, as I listened towards the end, in some sadness, but also in happiness, too!

Live, Laugh, Leave Me Alone by Harper Ford
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Right. Where do I start with how much I loved and related to this book?
Lucy is a 53-year-old woman. She’s got a great job, is single, and is working on her next steps in life, specifically a promotion at work, which looks likely.
Until she’s surprised by a new colleague, Tara, not much younger than Lucy, but filled with the glamour and perfection of one of those women who have Instagram-worthy perfect diets/families/lives.
And so she finds herself in a position of competition, and that competition pulls her into a wellness frenzy.
Okay, so the book had me laughing out loud at the various wellness techniques Lucy ends up signing up for, and I rolled my eyes several times, recalling similar services constantly touted on social media as the next big thing. Especially those diets and meds for perimenopausal women, and the different ‘Zen’ activity apps that claim to have you looking 10 years younger in 4 weeks and 15lb slimmer, too…
But it wasn’t just a funny ride, this read.
Through the competitive element, Lucy gets to know her arch-nemesis, Tara. She uncovers aspects of a particular ‘wellness guru’ who is being lauded as remarkable that raise alarm bells.
And that’s when a deeper element of this story kicks in. Midlife insecurities, and a constant bombardment of claims to ‘banish this’ and ‘cure that’ that I know most of us women of a certain age feel, show themselves, and the ugly side of ‘wellness’, along with it.
Fantastically written and a hard recommend!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Avon Books for an ARC.

One of Us by Elizabeth Day
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I’ll start this by saying this is a sequel of sorts; however, it can be read as a standalone.
It took me a little while to get into the swing of this story, as there were four POVs to get used to; however, that did not detract from the story’s overall appeal.
It’s a story of power and politics, with privilege thrown into the mix.
Martin is a man from a simple background. He’s worked hard to get where he is now. Out of the blue, he is invited to the funeral of the sister of a man whom he once considered a best friend, but who he has, for the last few years, been persona non grata.
Serena is the wife of his old best friend, Ben, a man on a mission to become the next PM.
Richard is a disgraced MP who finds himself needed by Ben to fulfil his political ambitions.
Cosima (Cozzie) is the eco-activist, eldest daughter of Ben – Ironic since Ben is the current Eco Minister.
So, yes, Ben is the thread that binds them all, but it’s the events that unfold, as well as the revelations from the past and the more recent events surrounding Ben’s sister’s death, that make for an enthralling read. Honestly, I was reading until 1 am, and had to put it down forcibly as I had an early start the next day.
I read several reviews that mentioned this being a funny read.
I’m not sure it was funny. Yes, some situations raised a laugh, but there were a lot more serious issues at hand.
The way money and power are used to belittle the opinions and feelings of those less fortunate, as well as the treatment of women by certain key characters, really didn’t make me laugh.
There are serious issues regarding the environment, substance abuse, and SA and rape that feature in certain scenes, which are decidedly unfunny.
But, still, a good read.
Many thanks to NetGalley and 4th Estate for an ARC.

Another of my blog tour reads, ready for the September tour! Look out for my review!

Another of my audiobook walking listens. I didn’t purposefully seek out this book. It was one of the titles included in my Audible subscription, so I thought I’d give it a go, and I wasn’t disappointed.
Autumn is from the UK, but residing in New York, and a chance meeting with Bluebell, also from England, sets off a string of events.
Autumn finds herself slowly pulled into a romantic relationship with Bluebell’s brother, Bowie, one of a set of twins, and the relationship goes beautifully until she finds out about his terminal cancer diagnosis.
She then ends up living in the UK with him and the rest of his family as he lives out his last days.
Things happen, that cause extreme emotional outbursts from each member of the family, but I’m not going to mention them here!
I found it a fantastic listen and was invested in all the characters.
Yes, so there may be some technical aspects of certain situations that an eagle eyed reader/keen listener may spot and question, but I like to think that sometimes in creativity, you can allow a little leeway!

A rerelease of this book is happening next month, so this is the older cover, but look out for the newest one, which I will be adding as a post on the 1st, as well as being on the Blog tour at the end of September for the full review!

A fab Psychological thriller which I will be featuring next month on a Book and a Brew Post, so keep your eyes peeled for that!

So, that was 20 books in August! You can tell I was on Summer holidays, can’t you? Which one caught your eye?

July 2025 Books #AmReading

04 Aug 2025 9 Comments

by Ritu in Thoughts Opinions & Memories Tags: #AmReading, Am Listening, Blog, Blog Post, Blogger, Blogging, Book Review, Book Reviews, books, Goodreads, Netgalley, reading, romance

The end of July heralds the end of the school year, and as you read this, I am probably sunning myself on holiday! (I’ll chat about that in another post!) And that is also why this post is a couple of days late!

It’s been another month filled with ARCS – when will I say no to a blog tour, lol?

July started with me meeting the children whom I will be teaching next year as I head back to the school nursery, where it will be the babies of the school, the 3-to 4-year-olds who will hold my attention for the year. I am really looking forward to it. It feels like coming home, as that is where I started my teaching career properly.

It’s also been an emotional year at school. As treasured colleagues leave, the children I first taught in Nursery are flying off to their new starts at Secondary School, while my own Hoglets are moving up to the Main school. You know me. I get attached every year, and seeing these children blossom is something I feel blessed to see and be a part of.

Did I write? Er, no… but I have the get-up-and-go to start up again, thanks to the gorgeous holiday we took, so watch this space!

I have participated in charity walks, celebrated birthdays and other special occasions with friends, and navigated a few different emotional moments within my close circle, as well.

But I kept on reading and listening, thoroughly enjoying my books!

Now, back to this month’s reads/listens. There were ARCS and Audiobook listens…

True Love Again by Saz Vora
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

You know me; I love a story with a South Asian twist to it, and Saz Vora, as a fellow Indian author with a Kenyan background, and brought up in the UK, writes some heart-wrenching stories, so when I was offered the chance to read True Love, Again as a part of the blog tour, I jumped at the chance.
The story centres around two people: Meera, a divorcee who has sworn off men after a traumatic break-up experience, and Krishan, a single father who has sworn off love after losing his wife in the most tragic of ways.
They meet at a wedding, under unusual circumstances, and what sparks between them is a relationship of convenience, as they seek to escape the Masi Mafia and the aunties who are forever trying to pair them off with a suitable match.
But sometimes the lines get blurred, and feelings begin to develop where they shouldn’t—or should they?
I enjoyed reading this, especially the details about the entire Masi Mafia, and how that community’s gossip can be used for both good and disastrous results.
I almost wish that the end had stretched a bit longer, so we saw how their relationship progressed, before a lovely, happy ending!

A Scottish Teashop in Napoli by Jane Lambert
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Imagine setting off on the holiday of a lifetime, with a dream wedding planned at the end, only to have it all come crashing down when he jilts you by not even getting on the plane.
This is the situation for poor Lucy, left alone in a tropical paradise by her fiance,
She takes the bull (or should I say buffalo?) by the horns and hands in her notice at the school where she taught, after finding an interesting-looking opportunity teaching English to students in Napoli, Italy.
Elena, in Naples, is suffering her tragedy, having been suddenly widowed, with her dream English school to run, as well as her husband’s family business, a handmade mozzarella factory to contribute to, plus being there for her son.
I loved this story; a celebration of female friendship, as well as new beginnings, and learning that you have to take every opportunity that comes your way.
Lucy is someone who seems to have always pleased others, and it is beautiful to see how, with the encouragement from her new Neapolitan friends, she blossoms with ideas for herself, as well as learning to love again.
Elena’s deep love for her husband and her loyalty to the family lead her to feel like she is failing everyone, including herself. Through this story, you see her grow and develop a friendship with her new English teacher, Lucy, that is more fruitful than she ever thought it would be.
And romance? Of course, there is! Dario, the godfather to Elena’s son Stefano, is a hunky police officer who comes to the aid of Lucy in several ways, and the slow burn of this romance is gorgeously built up.
Loss is covered in different forms, and mentions of the effect of the Mafia on families in Italy ground the story in a reality not many live through.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book!

Another Lucky Number: Sun, sea and a surprising turn of events – the most entertaining sun lounger read of the year! by Nina Kaye
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved Lucky Number and was excited to receive the second instalment in the series, Another Lucky Number, which allowed us to continue the story of Emma as she adjusts to her life after a significant lottery win.
Emma is on a high-end luxury holiday with her friends, Cat and Amber, having handed in her notice at her job and with the possibility of a fledgling romance starting back home.
So much can happen in the few days ahead that could have a tremendous impact on Emma’s life from now on.
I loved her character arc. She went from a woman who found it hard to stand up for herself to, with a lot of support from those around her, a stronger one who had a clearer idea about where her life was going.
Emma has a cast of characters around her that make the story even more interesting. Amber is like that reality check friend with a heart, somewhere! And Emma’s best friend, Cat, is like the Ying to Amber’s Yang, offering grounding and emotional support where needed.
Then there is the ‘sexy hotelier! Sebastien and the wholesome James who vie for Emma’s attention.
Some choice hotel guests add an extra layer of tension to the story, but ultimately, it’s a feel-good tale and a perfect beach read.
And the location! The Bahamas is on my bucket list, and now I want to go more!
Although this is part of a series, I think it could work well as a standalone.

Again, Rachel by Marian Keyes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Reading Again, Rachel was a delight. Well, I say read, but I listened to the audiobook, and that lilting Irish accent was so smooth to listen to, to start with!
It was great to be brought back to Walsh Land, with Rachel as the main character, as she was always one of my favourites.
Set more in the present, Rachel is now working in a Rehab Clinic as a counsellor, and she is doing a grand job, having come through addiction herself. With her partner Quinn, she finally feels settled, though she can’t fully let go with him.
Throughout the story, she faces several situations that test her, including seeing her ex-husband, Luke, after many years, which brings back memories of a deep loss. Her memories of that time are skewed compared to his.
Her realisations are the pinnacle of the story; however, it was good to catch up with other members of the family.
A sensitive, emotional, brilliantly written sequel.

The Village Cafe in the Loire by Gillian Harvey
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Sometimes I think Gillian Harvey is going to turn me into a Francophile, with all the gorgeous French setting books she writes, and this is one of those that makes me want to jump on the Eurostar, begin drinking coffee, and don a beret!
Becky is the protagonist, a thirty-something career woman who is on the brink of brilliant success; however, an inheritance looks set to derail all her plans.
She finds herself signed off from work, and ends up in a small village in the Loire, at the behest of her late great aunt, with a cafe for which she has no training, other than drinking coffee, and to pop the cherry on top, there is a lodger who it seems is resistant to leaving the building, even though all she wants to do is sell it.
Of course, that hunky, troublesome lodger named Pascale gives her another thing to think about.
Becky has few friends, Amber being her best friend, and her mother is there to guide her in life. But she sometimes cannot see beyond her own problems, often ignoring the SOS signs from those around her.
The storyline is one of self-discovery, and we see Becky begin to question all she has thought about her future before, and also to begin to look beyond herself, considering others, with a little romance along the way.
There is, of course, a little twist in the tale, too, to keep readers on their toes!

The Marriage Monitoring Aunties’ Association by Ola Awonubi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love stories steeped in cultures that are fighting to keep themselves heard while in another country, so this UK-based story with a Nigerian cast of characters was right up my street!
Sade Sodipo is a successful career woman with her own house, unmarried, and, shock, horror, fifty years of age! This is a sticking point for her mother, the various aunties of the church, and pretty much anyone in her Nigerian circle.
The story is based on Sade’s own ingrained religious and cultural beliefs, which include saving herself for ‘The One’ and true love leading to marriage and children. However, with her age against her and her health not cooperating, this is looking increasingly unlikely.
Is it a romance? Well, yes, romance 100% plays a part in this story, as Sade meets someone, but it is more about her accepting herself, as she is, and realising that maybe she needs to think a bit more about the expectations she (and the community) has put upon herself.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Harper Collins, One More Chapter, for an ARC.

Fixing a Broken Heart at the Highland Repair Shop: A BRAND NEW feel-good story of wit, romance and community spirit from Kiley Dunbar by Kiley Dunbar
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have read every one of Kiley Dunbar’s books avidly, enjoying her story building and the way she layers her characters.
The start of this new series got me extremely excited!
Ally, the main character, lives in Cairn Dhu, a small Scottish village, with her parents. There, she has a remote day job, and she spends her Saturdays assisting her father at his Highland Repair Shop, where everyone who volunteers is an advocate for sustainability and strives to reverse the throwaway mentality that many people have nowadays, instead of simply discarding things or trying to upcycle. Imagine a barn similar to the one featured on The Repair Shop, the TV programme.
Well, repairing things is one aspect, but when happenings at the Repair Shop show signs of repairing relationships, that’s when things get exciting!
I found Ally endearing. She is capable of so much, but has no self-belief. It takes a lot for her to realise that she hasn’t been left behind in life.
And Jamie. Oh, Jamie! The gentle, considerate volunteer police constable who has his emotional repairs to navigate, as well as fighting feelings for a certain flame-haired Cairn Dhu-an.
The picturesque settings are beautifully described, as are the folklore tales, which add a hint of mystery to the different places the author mentions.
This is a true feel-good story, with so much positivity and some twists in the tale to keep you turning pages. I am glad this is the start of a series, as I want to know a lot more about the visitors and volunteers at the Highland Repair Shop!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an ARC.

The X Ingredient by Roslyn Sinclair
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I listened to the audiobook of this with no expectations or preconceived ideas, other than what I thought from the blurb.
Southern Belle Laurie is up for a job at a lawyer’s firm for a PA role for Diana, the founder of the firm. She’s straight-laced, strict and a no-nonsense kind of woman.
Somehow, Laurie ends up with the job, and she proves herself as a hard-working, diligent PA… then the spicy stuff kicks in!
Workplace romance – Yup
FF romance – Yup
Open Door – You Open WIDE
I was listening as I walked, and the detail of certain scenes raised a flush on my face!
Still, it was a hot read!

Now and Then by Kay Bratt
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I cannot believe we are on the 13th book of the Hart’s Ridge series!
We are back with Taylor Gray and her husband Sam, where she is no longer a member of the police force. Instead, she has teamed up with Sam to start their very own PI agency, allowing for them both to be there for their baby, Lennon, and Alice, Sam’s daughter, as well as working on jobs they are passionate about.
Their first big case has a connection to Sam, as his aunt is fighting to get her husband’s conviction from ten years ago overturned with some new speculative evidence.
Alongside Taylor’s adventure, we focus on Taylor’s sister, Anna’s, life as she settles into her dream job of being a nurse now her divorce is settled and the children are happy. But Happiness is just not meant to be straightforward for her, as she finds herself in a dubious situation, all thanks to her ex.
Both storylines had me turning pages faster and faster, as usual, because I always find myself fully immersed in these books.
That there is an inkling of reality in each of the cases that are featured in the books always makes these even more interesting to read!
And I cannot wait to read #14!

On the blog tour for this Early August!

Another early August Blog tour read for me!

The Secret Diary of an Arranged Marriage by Halima Khatun
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Another one for my Audiobook reads.
I love anything with a cultural twist, and this is a brilliantly funny look at the epic ride when trying to get married as a British-born Bengali woman.
There were many laugh-out-loud moments, and I could relate to so much that was going on within this story!
The protagonist recounts her journey into finding a partner through the arranged marriage route, with a bit of help from internet dating, too, and it was hilarious!
It’s like an older, female Adrian Mole with a Bengali twist.
I’ve already downloaded book 2!

Ever After by Amanda Prowse

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Well, what can I say? That fabulous author, Amanda Prowse, has done it again with her latest book, Ever After.
Enya is a widow with one grown-up son. His life seems all set, with a fantastic girlfriend, who is also the daughter of Enya’s best friend, Jen.
A car accident causes Enya to have feelings for a person when she never thought she would feel again. Just as she is bucking up the courage to act upon this unforeseen impulse, possibly, her son hits her with another blindside, and all her thoughts of, maybe, moving on herself get put on the back burner.
As a wife and mother, this resonated with me. We sometimes find ourselves trapped in a situation that is not of our choosing, but it is the best for everyone else. As a result, many women end up in this same situation, doing nothing they wish, out of fear of rocking everyone else’s boat.
Enya has a shot at happiness, but she loses grasp of it as she fights with her inner instincts to do right by so many of the others in her life, forgoing her second chance at happiness.
However, sometimes there are others out there who do observe, and note things, and who will act in your benefit, rather than let you continue to wallow, and hold yourself back.
I thoroughly enjoyed this beautiful story.

Last Stop on the Winter Wonderland Express by Rebecca Raisin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a great Christmas in July story, especially as I read it in the glorious sunshine of Tunisia by the poolside!
Aubrey starts the story on the morning of her wedding, as she is getting ready to walk down the aisle to her soon-to-be husband, Miles, but for whatever reason, that walk never happens as he leaves her stranded.
Jilted, Aubrey continues with her honeymoon trip — a dream of a festive journey aboard a luxury train decked out to celebrate Christmas, with stops at many Festive fairs across Europe, and finishing in Lapland. She finds herself surrounded by loved-up couples, and somehow ends up telling people her very new husband sadly passed away, rather than face the pity of folk if they knew she had been jilted.
What makes the story, above the fabulous wintery destinations, is the group of friends she makes on board, as the singletons find themselves at a table together, away from the lovey-dovey folk.
Princess, the fabulously wealthy widow times three, and Brian the tryer. There’s Karen and CJ, and then there is Jasper. He’s a journalist, a gentleman, and rather hot…
There are some real hoots along the way, as love is found by more than one person, as well as trying to work out a mystery about a breakup, all accompanying Aubrey’s attempts to correct her friends on the real status of her love life – but no one wants to listen to her truths, insisting that she is dealing with the different stages of grief!
And, as I mentioned before, the different cities and markets mentioned make me want to board this Winter Wonderland, especially to have the chance to stay in the glass igloos in Lapland and see the Northern Lights while snuggled up with a loved one.
A great feel-good read.

Releasing 13th August, 2025

10 books this month! Which one did you fancy?

Another August blog tour for me, but a great read!

Yet another August Blog tour, but such fun!

So, that was 16 books in July, given the fantastic opportunity I had for uninterrupted reading in the sunshine! Which one caught your eye?

A Scottish Teashop In Napoli by Jane Lambert #BookTour #Blog Tour @rararesources @JaneLambert22 @bedsqpublishers

08 Jul 2025 5 Comments

by Ritu in Thoughts Opinions & Memories

Again, I am delighted to be able to showcase a book by my writer friend, Jane Lambert, with her newest release, A Scottish Teashop In Napoli.

The Blurb

A tender and funny novel that combines the best of Scottish and Italian culture with the joys of female friendship and a cast of characters reminiscent of Jenny Colgan and Sophie Kinsella.

When Lucy’s childhood sweetheart stands her up on their wedding day, leaving her alone on a plane eloping to the tropical location of his choosing, their dream – now feeling like just her dream – of their bairn filled future disappears in a heartbeat (or the time it takes for her to listen to the rambling drunken voicemail he left calling off the wedding).

In Naples, Elena is recently widowed and struggling to keep her husband’s family’s beloved and centuries old mozzarella factory afloat, whilst running her language school and bringing up their son. At risk of losing both businesses- and adding even more disruption to their life – she advertises a job and hopes for the best.

The stars seem to align and Elena and Lucy, each suffering from a very different sort of loss and loneliness, set about trying to lift the struggling business and each other.

A charming, tender and funny novel about the power of female friendships, the importance of letting go and the joys of eating pasta!

My Review

Purchase Links

https://bedfordsquarepublishers.co.uk/book/a-scottish-teashop-in-napoli

About The Author

Jane Lambert was brought up on the west coast of Scotland, studied Modern Languages at Stirling University, then taught English in Vienna. Her love affair with Italy began when she married an Italian chef from Naples. Her debut novel, THE START OF SOMETHING WONDERFUL, was published by HarperCollins in 2018 and inspired by her rollercoaster transition from globe-trotting cabin crew to aspiring actor.

Social Media Links – [X twitter] @JaneLambert22 / Jane Lambert | Facebook [Insta] @janealexandralambert

Race For Life – Cancer Research UK

02 Jul 2025 15 Comments

by Ritu in Family, Thoughts Opinions & Memories Tags: Blog, Blog Post, Blogger, Blogging, Cancer Resarch UK, Race For Life, sponsored walk

Hello, my lovely Peeps!

I know all you’ve been reading on here is reading updates, but I will post soon, with more ‘me’ news.

However, one of my things recently has been walking.

I’m walking with purpose every day, and have completed 102 days of walking 45 mins to an hour every day.

I’m documenting it on my Instagram stories, daily, too, for my accountability.

It’s done wonders for my mental health, and inspired me to join some work friends on a sponsored walk.

10km in the name of Cancer Research UK.

Personally, we as a family have been affected by Cancer in many ways, seeing people going through treatment, losing loved ones, and also seeing survivors.

I’m taking part with many of these cherished ones in mind, but especially for my big sis, Kiki, who bravely fought her battle with Cancer, with grace and dignity, until the last breath she took, earlier this year.

1 in 2 people will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime. Every single pound you donate makes a difference to Cancer Research UK’s groundbreaking work, so please sponsor me now.

https://fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/page/ritus-race-for-life-29

I hope you will find it in your hearts to sponsor me, as every little helps! Even my daughter added £2!

June 2025 Books #AmReading

30 Jun 2025 2 Comments

by Ritu in Thoughts Opinions & Memories Tags: Am Listening, AmREading, Blog, Blog Post, Blogger, Blogging, Goodreads, Netgalley, reading

How is it the end of June, already??

June has been the craziest of months. There has been a LOT going on at school, what with the preparation for next year, report checking, and some other situations that made it quite tough.

And reading is my go to to relax, but even so, I was so exhausted most nights, I fell asleep before getting much reading done! Ooops!

Still, I read, but I also went to the MeetCute Book Festival near Elstree on June 28th, which was an amazing place to celebrate all things romance fiction, and I was even invited to speak there! Such a great day!

Now, back to this month’s reads/listens. There were ARCS and Audiobook listens…

Seven Summers Later: The new emotional and unforgettable second-chance romance by Laila Rafi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Yes, yes, yes to another fabulous Desi love story, filled with second chances, grumpy sunshine, lots of Italy, and hints of Mombasa!
Laila Rafi crafts beautiful, heartfelt stories, and Seven Summers Later is no different.
Safiya is back home in London after a painful divorce. She is nursing heartbreak, but it’s not her Kenya-based ex-husband that she can’t quite forget.
Her self-confidence has eroded over six gruelling years in a loveless marriage, cementing the way she was made to feel by a close family member seven years ago. Slowly, she picks herself up hesitantly, dipping her toes back into the career she had always loved, but had lost, because of marriage: interior design.
Murad has worked diligently to achieve his current position. He has a successful career, cars, a swanky penthouse, and money, but his life is lacking in love and romance. Because no one quite lives up to the love of his life, who slipped away seven years ago.
A chance encounter brings them both together, once more, where they are not only forced to work together, but live alongside one another in a small village in Italy to renovate a crumbling villa.
You can feel the emotions from the off, the hesitancy to even want to communicate with one another, as both Safiya and Murad struggle with the situation, but also with coming to terms with feelings they thought had long since been buried.
The story centres around them, but also explores the themes of family honour and expectations, both of which can weigh heavily on the shoulders of many, taking chances and believing in oneself.
I was even happier to read brief glimpses of characters who featured in Laila Rafi’s previous book, First Comes Marriage, a couple with links to the same family.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Orion Publishing for an ARC.

Published 5th June, 2025

The Moment of Truth by Shari Low
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Another of my audiobook reads/listens.
The story centres around three friends who own a business called Perfect Proposals. Lainey, Tash and Millie are childhood friends who went into business together to help couples create the perfect proposal moments.
They are the ideal team, really, with Lainey being in a solid relationship with Cameron, the perfect poster couple for happily marrieds, and Millie, who is a die-hard romantic. Tash brings realism to the outfit, with a more laissez-faire approach to romance, as she is not one to be tied down herself.
The story is told from the perspectives of all three women, each with a parallel storyline. Still, the focus is on Lainey, who discovers that they appear to be setting up a proposal for a couple, led by the female half… and the male half may be her husband.
There is a lot of wariness, as she battles with whether she should confront him or not, and tries to convince herself that it is a coincidence that the man is called Cameron, with the same surname and job title as her own husband.
I won’t tell you more, but though it sometimes took a while to get going, and I sometimes wanted to throttle her for not asking him straight out, the three friends hash out a plan to find out the truth, in the most spectacular way!
The narrator was really great with accents, and I enjoyed listening to this.

Read Between the Lines by Emily Kerr
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Another enjoyable Emily Kerr story!
Kat Fisher (yes, that is her real name) is a librarian. She feels she is stereotypical, a bit serious, not noticeable to anyone other than her regular library visitors, and unattractive to the opposite sex. So a chance match on a very specific, local dating app, SO OX develops into a relationship that shows promise… until it doesn’t.
Leo Taylor, an ex-police officer, is minding his own business when he visits the library. However, he finds himself the recipient of her tongue, albeit in a hushed tone, as she chastises him for leaving his belongings everywhere, including his shoes, on the seat opposite.
Somehow, they become embroiled in a bit of a covert investigation, when Kat finds herself, well, kat-fished by a smooth-tongued suitor.
You know when you can feel the chemistry from the off? That is Kat and Leo, only they can’t quite get their act together, even though everyone around them seems to sense the attraction!
There are some fantastic side characters, including a retired CEO, Doris, who now has a penchant for smutty books and even has a spicy bookstagram following!
I enjoyed this read!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Harper Collins for an ARC

Released 13th June, 2025

Over the Sea to Skye by Sue Moorcroft
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I’ll start by saying that I haven’t read books 1 and 2 in the series yet, and though it didn’t detract from my enjoyment of this story, I 100% will be going back to catch up on the backstories of the others.
Over The Sea To Skye centres around Valentina Wynter, a newly single parent, on her way to Skye from Inverness with her son, Barnaby, for a hopefully relaxed summer, after a fraught few months following the break-up of her marriage.
Well, that is the plan, but you know what they say about the best laid plans, and all that?
Valentina is the oldest of three adopted sisters, and the only one with no link to her biological family. So, being in Skye, where her two sisters, Ess and Thea, live, is the closest she can get to being with people who love her.
On the train journey, they end up seated with American tourists, Xander and his nephew Macdonald, who are here for some heritage searching and a bit of a break as well.
What follows over the summer isn’t quite relaxing, but dealing with an unwell ex, needy, overbearing in-laws, a whole new branch of family, plus a sudden attraction to a certain Pittsburgher is undoubtedly worth it!
I loved Xander. He showed a depth of feeling and emotion that is rare in men, and his relationship with his nephew is exemplary.
Valentina and Xander are a partnership I was rooting for from the off! Yay for #ValeXander!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Avon Books for an ARC.

Released 5th June, 2025

Girls Just Want to Have Sun: A hilarious novel of sun, surprises and chaos from Jo Lyons by Jo Lyons
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

If you want a book that will have you giggling on the sunlounger while beside the pool, then I think you have found your holiday read!
A rom-com that gives so much com that I found myself laughing out loud at several points!
Connie is a singer, stuck in a rut. She’s still grieving the loss of her mother and desperately trying to fit into the hole her mother left in the singing world. but nothing is going right.
Her manager, Nancy give a last chance opportunity to her, to travel to Benidorm for a week, replacing a popular tribute act, with the Dollz as her warm-up act.
The moment we meet the Dollz, you know they aren’t going to let any part of this working break be boring! Their outlandish makeup and outfits, sudden group ‘slut drops’, and pure party girl mentality are a touch too far removed from Connie’s usual life.
And the journey starts with explosive moments, including Connie making quite an impression on the passenger sitting next to her, and not in the most positive of manners!
There is drama, some funny situations and plenty of twists as Connie seems to mess up all her opportunities, both with her career and potential lovelife.
The Dollz; yeah, maybe a tad too over the top, but they certainly never let anything get boring…
And Connie? She gets there, in the end!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an ARC.

Released 14th June, 2025

Once Upon a Thyme by Jane Lovering
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Tally is a woman in her late twenties who runs a herb farm. It has always been a part of her family, first belonging to her grandma, then her mother, before Tally buys it outright from her mum.
It’s a tough gig, especially as she has caring responsibilities for her mother, unwell with an unknown illness, but she loves being with the plants, and her guinea pigs, and especially Big Pig, her sow.
She ends up with Zeb, a marketing consultant appointed by her mother, tagging along as she goes about her life.
A chance visit from an up-and-coming band who want to use the farm to shoot videos gives Tally the chance of some more income, much-needed funds to continue her small, struggling business, and under the guidance of Zeb, she hesitantly agrees.
But there are lots of things going on, with thinking about a certain band member, as well as looking out for her mother, and trying to quell feelings that are building about someone else.
It’s a slow-rumbling romance, with a slightly darker moment when secrets are uncovered; however, it’s a lovely summer read.
A gorgeous story filled with love, a twist of mystery and a lot of hope.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an ARC.

Released on 24th June, 2025

Three Sisters by Heather Morris
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I’ve listened to another audiobook, and it’s the third in the Auschwitz trilogy by Heather Morris.
This is another beautifully told story of the three Mellor sisters, who made a promise to their father on his deathbed, when they were mere slips of girls, to always look after each other—a promise they upheld, and then some.
The three sisters go on quite an emotional, and often tragic journey through the war, separated then reunited in the most awful of places; Auschwitz.
But their journey doesn’t end there. They separate once more for two to go on another massive, eventful trek to Israel, to help create a homeland for the Jewish community.
Though all is thankfully well for them at the end, this book took me on a rollercoaster of emotions: sadness, fear, terror, hope, and confusion.
Why the confusion? Because of the mention of Gaza and Palestine within the book. What hit me was that this story of persecution, and an entire community just looking for a safe space, echoes what is happening right now in Gaza, and yet this time it is the same people who suffered, causing suffering to another innocent community.
True, it is a whole new generation, but I know of many older Jewish folk who are horrified, feeling and hearing the echoes of what they experienced, happening all over. Still, this time the persecutors are their own. The stories from Auschwitz and many other concentration camps, the death marches, losing unnecessary Jewish lives… Stories uncovered and retold many years later, and yet we are seeing the horrors to innocent Gaza residents in real-time, and still it’s not stopping. It’s not about religion, it’s about one-upmanship, and no consideration for lives destroyed so horrifically.
Sorry to get political in a review; it hit a nerve.

The Dirty Version by Turner Gable Kahn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Reading the blurb after the title pulled me in and made me eager to read this book. Now, was it worth it?
We have Tash, an author whose first novel, a female-centric dystopian piece, has reached the level of fandom that it is being commissioned for adaptation as a TV series. Only the producer wants it to be ‘sexed-ed up’ more for the screen, as well as a significant change to the ending.
Tash battles with this idea, as it is so far from her ideals and the book’s concept.
Threatened with the loss of any say, she teams up with an Intimacy Co-ordinator, Caleb, celebrated in his field for helping to create, well, hot scenes!
Here, we end up with a bit of a grumpy-sunshine workplace romance, as Tash battles with her more visceral feelings towards her work partner and her strong feelings about her book, which is going to be ‘butchered’ for the screen, losing all integrity.
An easy-to-read summer romance, but considering the title The Dirty Version, any action is very much closed-door!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Verve Books for an ARC.

Published 26th June, 2025

The first of my July Book tour arcs. I’ll be featuring the full review on 2nd July! And it’s a cricket-based romance, so given my family obsession with the sport, it just had to be read!

Whisked Away at Christmas by Mahi Cheshire
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I listened to this title as I walked, and I thoroughly enjoyed the story of Gina and Nick, two pastry chefs with a history and each with a thirst to win the Golden Whisk Award.
I really enjoyed this story of two individuals who are so perfect for each other, but with huge barriers, such as misconceptions that they struggle to clear up.
Set with the backdrop of Vienna at Christmas time, it’s a perfect Christmas read(listen)!

Dear Miss Lake by A.J. Pearce
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

It was a pleasure to leap back into the world of Emmy Lake and her fellow Magazine colleagues as they clamber through the murky end-of-war years.
We are treated to weddings, a relocation, and a fair few tragedies, as well as some mystery as Hester disappears for a while.
I loved this last installment, and AJ Pearce really helps the reader get a feel for what many families on the home front would have felt like, nervously awaiting news of their loved ones in Europe, as war sounds like it is ending.
There are less of the Dear Miss Lake letters, as Emmy gets engrossed in helping women and families trying to trace their family members who are prisoners of war, and that is not without emotion.
An enjoyable addition to the series.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Pan Macmillan for an ARC.

Published 3rd July, 2025