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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...

Starting Over at Starlight Cottage by Debbie Viggiano #Review #StarlightSeriesBook1

 

The first in the Starlight Series by Debbie Viggiano, Starting Over at Starlight Cottage, was published by Unicorn Publishing on 1st December 2024


Stars Can't Shine Without Darkness...

49-year-old Tilly Thomas would never have known any different if she hadn’t unexpectedly turned up at hubby Robin’s office to surprise him with an off-the-cuff evening at the theatre.  Instead, the surprise is on Tilly when she interrupts Robin and his young PA in a compromising position. 

Stumbling from the office, blinded by tears, Tilly thanks God she was never gifted the children she once craved and is spared explaining why Mummy and Daddy will now be living apart.  Instead, Tilly has an adopted daughter – but this little girl has a wet nose and warm heart. 

Mongrel Cindy is privy to all her mummy’s hopes and dreams as Tilly prepares to start over in the village of Starlight Croft.  Thank goodness a dog can’t speak because Cindy knows things her mistress has never shared, including a secret that once broke Tilly’s heart.

As Tilly prepares to embrace an unknown future and make peace with her past, she discovers that sometimes difficult roads lead to beautiful destinations…


 

My Thoughts

 In the first of a new series, we follow Tilly as she adjusts to life post- divorce and tries to come to terms with her new life. Forced to move out of her marital home, she finds that her life is in freefall and has to look around for new horizons. As she prepares to start over, Tilly finds somewhere which seems to be the answer.  Friendship is very important in the story and she has a huge amount of support. 

    I can't say any more about the plot as I don't want to give away any surprises. I did enjoy Tilly's conversations with her adored pet dog, her adopted 'daughter', who is an inquisitive bundle of fur who in some ways, helps Tilly to not feel so alone. The community she finds near Starlight Cottage, especially in the local pub, have potential for future stories and I can say that this is a promising start to the series.

In short: new horizons

About the Author

Prior to turning her attention to writing, Debbie Viggiano was, for more years than she cares to remember, a legal secretary. She lives with her Italian husband, a rescued pooch from Crete, and a very disgruntled cat. Occasionally her adult children return home bringing her much joy... apart from when they want to raid the fridge or eat her secret stash of chocolate. Tweet @DebbieViggiano or follow her on Facebook!

You can follow Debbie here: Twitter  |  Facebook  |  Instagram                                                     |  Website 

Book links: Amazon UK  |  Amazon US

 

Thanks to Debbie Viggiano, Unicorn Publishing and Rachel of Rachel's Random Resources for a copy of the book and a place on the tour.

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