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Coming Home to Maple Lodge by Alison Sherlock #Review

  I am delighted to feature the first in Alison Sherlock's new series set in the Corswolds. Coming Home to Maple Tree Lodge was published by Boldwood Books on June 20th. A family and hotel in desperate need of help… Maple Tree Lodge has been the home of the Jackson family for over a century. But the hotel has never been a success and, following the sudden loss of his father, architect Ben Jackson soon discovers the hotel is close to financial ruin. Ben has to make some tough decisions if the hotel is to survive and his family are to keep a roof over their heads. With the hotel in urgent need of a renovation, Ben’s sister calls on the talents of her best friend, interior designer Lily Watson. Cash strapped Lily needs a successful project to prove to herself and her high-achieving parents that she can carve a successful career and Maple Tree Lodge sounds like just the place for Lily to showcase her talents. However, Lily’s vision for a cosy, country Cotswolds hotel is the com...
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Dreaming Under an Island Skye by Lisa Hobman #Review

 

Today I am delighted to feature Lisa Hobman's Dreaming Under an Island Skye which was published by Boldwood Books on 23rd February. 


Is there really such a thing as a second shot at true love?

 

After three wonderful years of marriage, librarian Juliette Fairhurst’s heart is shattered when her husband, Laurie, is taken from her much too soon.

Devasted, Juliette decides to take a sabbatical and reconnect with her mother’s birthplace, the village of Glentorrin on the picturesque Isle of Skye.

Welcomed by most of the villagers, Juliette throws herself into an idyllic community life, taking on the role of temporary summer guardian at The Lifeboat House Museum; a role that offers her the perfect escape from the tragedy of her real life.

During her time on the island, Juliette clashes with brooding single dad and artist, Reid Mackinnon and is befriended by his son Evin and dog Chewie. It’s clear that divorced Reid is struggling and scarred by his own painful experiences.

Can these two lost souls find a lifeline to rescue each other?

Or will their pasts scupper their second chance at real happiness?

 


 My Thoughts

This is one of those books which I resented putting down! It was a lovely escape up to the Isle of Skye and really captured the beautiful part of the world and created a lovely community of characters. Juliette goes there to take a break away from her life in the Cotswold and to try to come to terms with the grief of losing her husband. However, a whole new world opens up. Recovering from depression, she seems attuned to its effects in others and beneath the romance of the story, lies some difficult and dark themes. 

    Family and friendship are major components of the story and Juliette discovers a family connection with the village and the Lifeboat Museum. Juliette is not the only character who is coping with loss and indeed not all the characters are likeable. Unrequited love, bordering on obsession creates difficulties and you really feel for Reid's son, Evin, who has been bullied at school and then faces separation from his Dad. Strong community links make this a special place. It is an ultimately hopeful read with some touching moments.


In short: Love and betrayal sit side by side

About the Author

 


Lisa Hobman has written many brilliantly reviewed women’s fiction titles - the first of which was shortlisted by the RNA for their debut novel award. In 2012 Lisa relocated her family from Yorkshire to a village in Scotland and this beautiful  backdrop now inspires her uplifting and romantic stories.

You can follow Lisa here: Facebook

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Book links: Amazon UK

Thanks to Lisa Hobman, Boldwood Books and Rachel of Rachel's Random Resources for a copy of the book and a place on the tour.


Check out the rest of the tour!


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