The Tea Room on the Bay – Rachel Burton

This was a change of direction for Rachel Burton and as I’d enjoyed all of her other books, I was definitely intrigued by this new style cover. The Teashop on the Bay does feel different and whilst lighter in tone, maintains the same warm depth, loveable characters and wonderful descriptions that I’d expect.

I loved Ellie and Ben’s story. At times I was second-guessing and I wasn’t sure where it would end. Whilst this book is set at Christmas, I read it on a hot beach in Greece and still managed to be transported to the gorgeous, snowy Sanderson Bay. Overall, I loved the story, the characters and setting. I raced through this one and I couldn’t wait to see how it ended. It’s guaranteed to leave you feeling warm and content.

Rating: 5/5

Genre: contemporary romance

The Stones Thieves – Eddy Telviot

The Stone Thieves is a traditional childrens’ adventure story with a futuristic twist that I feel will be enjoyed by teenagers and adults alike. There are flavours of Lord of The Rings, The Hunger Games, The Maze Runner, The Night Circus and Harry Potter but make no mistake; this is a unique book in its own right.

The world building really drew me in. It was imaginative and vivid with lots of recognisable ‘real world elements’ which helped me as a reader connect to the story. You can tell the author has a keen interest in science as the inventions and creations are plentiful and beyond the realms of most humble imaginations. Saying that, I did like how many of the inventions were based on technology that we’ve almost developed because this gave the story an element of believability. I won’t give anything away because I don’t want to ruin the story for anyone but I will say this: Pass me the anti-ageing stuff now!

The characters are well drawn and the fact the main group are teens, shone through brilliantly. Their nativity at times, and curiosity at others gave them added dimensions, as did the banter between Sam and friends.

Overall, fans of science fiction and fantasy will love this book – I’m pleased to see the author has more novels planned (I for one can’t imagine where he’ll take us next).

Genre: Sci-fi/ fantasy

Rating: 5/5⭐️

Summer Strawberries at Swallowtail Bay – Katie Ginger

This was my first Katie Ginger book and I’ll definitely be picking up her others. Summer Strawberries at Swallowtail Bay is the perfect escapist read. Set by the sea, it perfectly encompasses the British seaside vibe and gave me a wave of nostalgia as it reminded me of my own UK holidays when I was a child.

The story follows Hettie who is determined to shake up the annual strawberry show by putting on an all singing and dancing strawberry-themed festival. Despite many roadblocks, Betty’s determination gets her there with twists and turns along the way.

Hetty is a sweet heroine with a feisty side and I enjoyed watching her grow and figure out what she wanted personally and professionally. As with all the characters, she’s well drawn out and vivid and I loved a certain Mr someone too!

With a gorgeous backdrop, plenty of yummy food references and lovely storytelling, this is the perfect read to accompany this summer’s ‘staycation’.

Genre: Romance / Romcom

Rating: 5/5⭐️