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See the Stars by Eleanor Ray #Review

  See the Stars by Eleanor Ray will be  published on February 5th 2026 by Piatkus .  Do you ever feel that life isn't going to plan?   When Alice Thorington collapses in the street after a particularly hellish day at work, she must finally admit to herself that her outwardly happy life - steady relationship, well-paid job, beautiful flat in the city - isn't everything she'd hoped it would be. Burnt out by long hours and living a life that doesn't fulfil her dreams, Alice returns home to Yorkshire.  Her childhood home brings complicated family dynamics, a rediscovery of her passion for stargazing and two new friends: Berti, a boy who finds it easier to count the stars than interact with people, and Matt, her brother's best friend and Alice's teenage crush. With each of them facing their own struggles, can the stars that meant so much to Alice in her past help them to find their way in the present?  Filled with heart and warmth, this uplifting novel...

Heartbreak at Harpers by Rosie Clark #Review

 

Welcome back to the Harpers Emporium for the eighth book in the series by Rosie Clarke, Heartbreak at Harpers, which was published on July 2nd by Boldwood Books.

 
Immerse yourself in the Harpers Emporium in the roaring 20s - a time of prosperity, optimism, and change...

London 1926

Kitty Wilson, who, after losing her father, rejects the unsuitable suitor her mother has chosen. Abandoned by her mother, Kitty faces the challenges of navigating life alone. Amidst the turmoil, Kitty finds solace and support from friends, securing a promotion at Harpers Emporium. However, tragedy looms, threatening to shatter her newfound stability.

Sally and Ben Harper face their own challenges. A decision by Ben regarding the restaurant, made without consulting his partner Jack Burrows, jeopardizes not only their friendship but also the stability of Harpers itself.

Meanwhile Beth Burrows becomes embroiled in some dangerous gangland dealings, raising fears for her family's safety. Can an unknown guardian angel emerge to shield them from harm? Yet, even in the darkest times, the bonds of friendship prove to be a beacon of hope.

Discover a tale of resilience, friendship, and unexpected alliances against the backdrop of a transformative era.


 My Thoughts

This series shows no signs of losing its appeal. Now we have moved into the 1920's with all the social changes that that brings. The place of women in society is still viewed through marriage but there are opportunities to be had at Harpers which stands secure. As you follow Sally and Beth's story threads, you cannot but help admire their resilience and determination to do the right thing by their staff. Family and friendship is also very important in their lives and they pay this forward, helping young women to receive opportunities also.

    Kitty Wilson is also at the heart of the story. She has some harsh times to cope with and a mother who is far from sympathetic to her needs. Kitty has a determination to do the right thing, as well, but needs a helping hand to succeed. You can see her appreciation for kindness but she is not afraid to stand up for herself. Although there is romance along the way, as the title suggests, things do not go well for everyone and all the characters have some challengs ahead in this enjoyable read.

In short, modern times bring more challenges.

About the Author

 


Hello, to all my readers, here in the UK and all over the world. I currently write for Boldwood Books as Rosie Clarke. My books are gritty, emotional stories with characters that reach out to the reader and draw you into their world. They want you to become their friend as they tell you of their loves, hates, grief and happiness. Mostly set during the two World Wars they are usually in series, though now and then I do a standalone.

My current series are:

The Harpers Emporium series, now into its sixth book and continuing. Number seven coming soon.

The Mulberry Lane series, nine published so far.

Blackberry Farm series. Two published so far and number three on its way.

There are also the Lizzie series, the Emma series, and some standalones, including A Mother's Shame and Nellie's Secret. More coming in the future.

I write for pleasure and hope to give pleasure to my readers. I thank you most sincerely for reading my books and I love to hear when you enjoy them. If I can make you smile or perhaps shed a tear then I've done all I could hope for. Sending warmest wishes, Rosie Clarke.

You can read my review of Rainy Days for the Harpers Girls here, an extract from Wartime Blues for the Harpers Girls here, my review of Victory Bells for the Harpers Girls here and ny review of Changing Times at Harpers here.

 
 
You can follow Rosie here: 

 
 Thanks to Rosie Clarke, Boldwood books and Rachel of Rachel's Random Resources for a copy of the book and a place on the tour.

Follow the rest of the tour!
 

 

 

 


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