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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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Only for Christmas by Tracy Corbett #Review

 

Today we have a gorgeous festive romance from Tracy Corbett. Only for Christmas was published by Canelo on September 28th. 


One month to pretend... or one month to fall in love?

How do I turn down an overly keen colleague I have zero interest in dating? Should I:

1.            Stammer and bluster my way through every excuse in the book

2.            Accept and then immediately turn in my resignation letter, change my number and leave the country

3.            Allow my hot, new, doctor neighbour to step in and pretend to be my boyfriend

The answer: there are no right answers.

But option 3 is happening and I’m fake dating Lucas just to survive my work Christmas party without any further unwanted advances.


 My Thoughts

 This is an entertaining read which has all the flavours of the festive season, with a touch of humour, but beneath the surface, some darker themes of coercive behaviour and bullying. Sarah  has tried to protect her heart by shutting herself off from the possibility of romance but you sense that she is a vulnerable and lonely character despite the veneer she presents to the world. I particularly liked the humour, found in her adopted dog, Fred, and also through the reactions of Lucas' nephews. You also meet Sarah's neighbour, an old lady who is also lonely and vulnerable but who covers it up with bluster.

    Lucas emerges as a kind and generous character, with a sense of family ties. Utterly dependable, you recognise that he is just what Sarah needs. Her work colleagues can see this as well. As the fake dating arrangement evolves, you see Sarah and Lucas' friendship blossom. Lucas, as an American in London, sees the country and the Christmas customs through an outsider's eyes which lends itself to the story. If you are looking for a light romcom with a festive touch, you will enjoy this romance.

In short: festive romance with likeable characters

About the Author

As well as writing novels, Tracy’s written several short stories, pantomime sketches and magazine articles. Tracy describes her writing style as modern tales of romance, with engaging quirky characters, who overcome adversity, grow as people and conclude in satisfying optimistic endings. When she’s not writing, she enjoys amateur dramatics, gardening and sewing. She works part-time for a local charity.

You can follow Tracy here: X (Twitter)  | Facebook   |  Instagram

Book links: Apple  |  Kobo   |  Amazon UK  |  Google

Thanks to Tracy Corbett, Canelo and Rachel of Rachel's Random Resources for a copy of the book and a place on the tour.

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