The Other People – CJ Tudor

After enjoying CJ Tudor’s first two books, I was thrilled to receive an ARC copy of The Other People and pushed my TBR pile aside so I could get stuck in.
As with all Tudor’s books, there’s an element of mystery and the supernatural and with multiple characters, there’s plenty to get your teeth into.

The storyline and characters felt fresh and unique and there was enough momentum to keep me turning the pages. In addition, there are some wonderfully profound lines scattered throughout the book which I didn’t expect.

Another enjoyable CJ Tudor book.

Genre: Supernatural thriller

Rating: 4/5⭐️

Verity – Colleen Hoover

I’d heard so much about this book. Every book forum online seemed to be talking about it and I’ve had it in my Kindle a while – I don’t know why I didn’t read it sooner.
The story has a sinister feel to it from the start when author Lowen witnessed a horrific accident. The creepy tension builds as she takes on the role as ghost writer for a famous author who was injured in a car accident.

I’m not going to give anything away, but this book genuinely chilled me. Parts of it were so uncomfortable, I felt sick to my core towards the end my heart was racing and I was jumpy. For a book to trigger these kind of emotions in me is a credit to the author who sets such a creepy tone in such a believable, subtle way. It’s a quick read that you won’t be able to put down!

Genre: psychological thriller / dark romance
Rating: 5⭐️

A Wedding in December – Sarah Morgan

I do love a Sarah Morgan book. You know what you’re going to get; fantastic scenery, sweet romance and a happy ever after and A Wedding in December didn’t disappoint.
I loved the characters but Maggie especially was such an unassuming heroine, she really stood out. I loved the story with her and Nick and whilst I’d have perhaps like a bit more conflict between them early on, I really loved their story.

I loved the multiple POV and how each character had their own story that impacted on the others.

Overall this is a cosy, festive romance which would be great for Hallmark fans or anyone who enjoys the genre.

Genre: Romance (Christmas)

Rating: 4/5 ⭐️

A Window Breaks

A Window Breaks is an action-packed thriller bursting with twists and turns. A family, having suffered from some tragic news and a violent mugging, go away to a secluded, luxury cabin in Scotland to reconnect and heal. During their stay, everyone’s worst nightmare comes true for them when they hear the shatter of glass.
I’m not going to give any more away but this book had me on the edge of my seat, my knuckles white through gripping my Kindle. The writer does a fantastic job of unraveling the story and keeping momentum going without falling victim to the ‘cheesy’, eye-roll-inducing cliques synonymous with the genre. I personally loved how the smallest of developments had such huge implications to a family desperate to survive.

Genre: Action thriller

Rating: 5/5⭐️

The Ingredients For Happiness – Lucy Knott

When I found out there was a sequel to How To Bake A New Beginning I was thrilled because I loved everything about the first book. The second book follows on the sisters’ stories as they continue their lives and strive to succeed in their chosen careers but can also be read as a stand alone. Reading this was like catching up with old friends especially as the story is told through the three viewpoints of Amanda, Sabrina and Louisa.

I loved the Italian setting but being a Manchester girl myself, I particularly adored the familiar references to my home city too – especially The Northern Quarter. The recipes at the start of each chapter seemed wonderful (I’m not much of a cook but I have a good imagination and when I read them, my mouth watered) and I loved how the author added little bits of humour or nostalgia to the ‘method’ section.
The heart of the story is family and there’s a real warmth that comes through whenever any of the characters talk about or interact with their family which gives the book a really nice feel.
It’s the perfect book for curling up with this summer.
Genre: Light-hearted women’s fiction

Rating: 5/5⭐️