Book Review “Gerard Philey’s Euro-Diary : Quest for Life” by Brendan James

BOOK REVIEW NO : 153

Humour/Comedy

Standalone

Length : 196 pages

Independently Published

SYNOPSIS/BOOK BLURB

Gerard Philey’s Euro-Diary: Quest for a Life

‘Could there be a world of interest and adventure beyond the Midlands? A world of confidence, sex and excitement? A better life – a better me?’ These are the questions Gerard Philey grapples with over New Year, 1995. Sitting in his rented Black Country room, reflecting on his thankless teaching job and miserable love life, he courageously decides to abandon his humdrum existence and embark on a quest for Euro-fulfilment, fun and fitness on the Continent.

After a shaky start in Brussels, events manoeuvre him to Amsterdam where chance encounters shift his world well and truly into fifth gear. He samples the trials and tribulations of new relationships, alongside managing a sex shop in the city’s Red Light Area – on top of the challenges of fat-free living and international travel!

Through his bittersweet diary, we see how Gerard steers a laugh-out-loud course through farcical episodes and fanciful characters…and how entanglements from past and present draw him unwittingly into a criminal underworld where events ultimately take their toll.

Purchase Link –  https://amzn.to/3spEKZ9

REVIEW ~ NIKI PRESTON ~ 4 STARS

In all honesty I really wasn’t sure how I was going to feel about Gerard Philey’s Euro-Diary. A diary entry style that had me thinking if I was actually going to enjoy it. Well that’ll teach me to be all judgy about a book before I’ve read it! I laughed so much I didn’t want it to finish. I loved following Gerard’s journey from his very boring, uneventful life to finding himself in the much more promiscuous lifestyle of running a sex shop in Amsterdam! This could not be more removed from his old life if he tried and I adored every single entry.

This book is written with a passion that just brings the brilliant characters to life. some of the situations that Gerard finds himself in are truly outrageous but equally hilarious, it really is one of those books that you think, “Ok I’ll give it a go” and then end up thinking “I am telling everyone about this book” Everyone needs a good laugh every now and then and Gerard and his escapades will indulge you with laughs in spades. Loved It!

Author Bio – 

Brendan James is the author of the new comedy novel, “Gerard Philey’s Euro-Diary: Quest for a Life”. Though this is his first novel, he has a large number of non-fiction publications (under the name Brendan Bartram) as a former university lecturer and researcher. A passionate linguist and Europhile, he spent a number of years working in the Netherlands, France and Germany. He lives in the West Midlands with his husband.

Social Media Links –

Goodreads – https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/450811.Brendan_James

LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendan-james-4343a8237/

Twitter – @Brendan23015569

With Thanks for the Advance copy to ……..

Rachel Gilbey

Brendan James

Advertisement

Book Review “Buttercups in the Basement” by Jane Harvey

BOOK REVIEW : 152

Book 2 of 3 in The Hummingbird House Series

Length : 233 pages

Publisher : Dreena Collins

SYNOPSIS/BOOK BLURB

Buttercups in the Basement

1967: the summer of love and the year Betty moves into her first home.

Independent. Open. Inexperienced. She is excited to be living with her new husband, William, and committed to returning Hummingbird House to its former glory.

But when she invites captivating new tenants into her home and settles into married life, her world begins to transform in ways she could never have imagined.

She thought she was on a journey toward domesticity and devotion – but her experiences that summer prove to be anything but traditional.

Alternating between the1960s and the present day, Buttercups in the Basement is a delightful exploration of personal awakening, friendships – and what it means to be happy.

Purchase Links

UK – https://www.amazon.co.uk/Buttercups-Basement-Book-Hummingbird-House-ebook/dp/B09SF7VVG2/

US – https://www.amazon.com/Buttercups-Basement-Book-Hummingbird-House-ebook/dp/B09SF7VVG2/

REVIEW ~ NIKI PRESTON ~ 4 STARS

I always love to find a book that resonates with me. Buttercups in the Basement did just that. The complex issues are dealt with in a sensitive manner and only goes to highlight that some issues from way back in the 60’s still exist today! which in itself is quite shocking. We think we have come far but actually in some areas we just haven’t. (I can’t go into detail as that would involve spoilers, not doing that) On top of all that is also told across two very different eras, the 60’s and present day. One of my favourite genres.

This is the second book in a series of 3 but having not read book 1 I didn’t feel like I had missed out to much, although I am now planning to go back and read the first one to get a more rounded read.

Betty has a beautiful soul. She is quite naïve and hopes her new life as a married woman will be satisfying and she will be fulfilled however she quickly finds out it is far from her expectations. Que Sandra, her tenant who opens Betty’s eyes in more ways than one. She sort of becomes her saviour. I loved how their relationship blossoms.

I found Jane Harvey’s writing style thoroughly captivating. It flowed well and you, as a reader just don’t want it to end. I highly recommend Book 2 in this series.

Author Bio –

Jane Harvey is a pen name (shhh). She crafts fun fiction for the thinking woman, where she enjoys exploring unexpected friendships and writing happy endings. This is lucky, because in real life her (prize-winning) fiction is a little bleaker. She was born and raised on the island of Jersey, and lives with two males and a dog. She owns an admirable collection of animal vases and unusual lighting.

Social Media Links –

Instagram.com/jane_harvey_novelist

Facebook.com/janeharveynovelist

Twitter: @dreenac

With Thanks for the Advance Copy to ….

Rachel Gilby

Jane Harvey

Book Review “Together under a Snowy Skye” by Lisa Hobman

BOOK REVIEW : 151

Romance

Standalone

Length : 310 pages

Publisher : Boldwood

SYNOPSIS/BOOK BLURB

Together Under a Snowy Skye

After the heartbreak of a secret unrequited love, Millie Treadaway has finally found someone to spend her life with.

Harry Rose is handsome, successful and treats her like a princess. That is until Millie presents her fiancé with a surprise birthday gift, and their future is suddenly doomed.

Eight months later Millie returns to Glentorrin on the Isle of Skye for her best friend Jules’ Christmas wedding. Heartbroken, single and heavily pregnant.

Staying in Lifeboat Cottage with Jules’ brother, kindhearted Dexter, she’s given up on love and resigned herself to be the best single Mum ever.

But a shock phone call from Harry leaves her reeling and doubting herself and her decisions.

Do second chances work? Or is Dexter, right? That she deserves much more?

Can the festive spirit in Glentorrin, and a little stray Jack Russell terrier, heal her heart?

Or is she fated to remain a member of the lonely-hearts club forever?

Purchase Link – https://amzn.to/3O28t2B

REVIEW ~ NIKI PRESTON ~ 4 STARS

Having lived in remote parts of Scotland I absolutely love finding a great book that brings back some fabulous memories and Together under a Snowy Skye really did that for me. A pure peace of escapism that makes you feel all dreamy and cosy, ready for the winter. I was involved with this beautiful story right from the beginning. Hooked and then some. A wonderful story of love and loyalty in beautiful surroundings described to a T. To top it all there is the gorgeous Nigel! (a dog) to finish off the story. What more could a story need? Lisa Hobman has hit the proverbial nail on the head with this marvellous book.

If your looking for a great cosy feel good book then this it absolutely THE book for you. I loved it and I’m more than sure you will to. The synopsis tells you just enough the whet the appetite so off you pop and grab a copy. Great for those early evenings, it will leave you with a lovely fuzzy feeling.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Author Bio –

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.

Social Media Links –  

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LisaJHobmanAuthor

Twitter https://twitter.com/LisaJHobmanAuth

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lisahobmanauthor/

Newsletter Sign Up: https://bit.ly/LisaHobmannews 

Bookbub profile: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/lisa-hobman

With Thanks for the Advance Copy to ……

Rachel Gilbey

Lisa Hobman

Boldwood Books

Book Review “A Wartime Welcome at Rookery House” by Rosie Hendry

BOOK REVIEW NO : 150

Wartime Fiction

Saga series

Length : 304

SYNOPSIS/BOOK BLURB

A Wartime Welcome at Rookery House

Follow the much-loved characters from the award winning MOTHER’S DAY CLUB in a brand-new World War Two saga series.

October 1940

When VAD nurse Evie narrowly avoids being killed in an air raid during the Blitz, it propels her to make a life-changing decision to break free of her troubled and unhappy life. She escapes to the Norfolk countryside to start afresh, with a job at the newly opened Great Plumstead Hall hospital, and a wonderful new home at Rookery House.

The community of Great Plumstead welcomes more evacuees to the village – mothers and children bombed out of their London homes. Sisters Prue and Thea, along with members of The Mother’s Day Club, help the new arrivals settle in, while continuing their work for the war effort by holding knitting bees, socials and doing WVS work.

Evie is happy in her new life – she loves living at Rookery House and enjoys her job at the hospital, despite working for the difficult Matron Reed. But when a patient arrives who knew her in her former life, Evie’s new-found freedom and happiness is in danger. Will the secrets of Evie’s past be revealed, and the problems from her old life return to trouble her once more?

Purchase Links – https://amazon.co.uk/dp/B09R2KB6NV

REVIEW ~ NIKI PRESTON ~ 4 STARS

Another great story from Rosie Hendry. She writes with a beautiful flare that brings her characters to life brilliantly well. I am always drawn into her books as she creates emotional situations with an honesty that at times you can really feel it within yourself. Whether its laughter or sadness it all becomes so real. Definitely my kind of book. One that leaves you thinking about it for quite some time after you’ve finished reading.

An enthralling Wartime saga that tackles some heart breaking and difficult issues. Evacuated children, losing loved ones to the war, heart break, love, friendship and secrets. I never reveal spoilers in a review, so all that is left to say is I would highly recommend A Wartime Welcome at Rookery House if you enjoy good strong female characters , a strong sense of community and an all round great read, this is one for you.

Author Bio –

Rosie Hendry lives by the sea in North Norfolk with her husband and children. She writes uplifting, heart-warming historical fiction based on true events from our social history. Listening to her father’s tales of life during the Second World War sparked her interest in this period and she loves researching further, seeking out gems of real-life stories which inspire her writing.

Social Media Links – https://www.facebook.com/RosieHendrybooks

https://www.instagram.com/rosiehendryauthor/

With Thanks for the Advance Copy to ….

Rachel Gilbey

Rosie Hendry

Book Review “The Hub” by Nicola May

BOOK REVIEW no :149

Romance/Mystery

Standalone

Length : 318 pages

SYNOPSIS/BOOK BLURB

The Hub

ONE TURKEY FARM, FIVE WILD COLLEAGUES AND A BARN FULL OF MYSTERY

When jilted crime writer August Saunders returns from London to her roots in rural Wiltshire, she feels lost and lacking in inspiration. Determined to reignite her writing mojo, she responds to an advert for a shared workspace in a converted barn.

At the Hub, with its ill-equipped gym, inedible catering and motley array of fellow users, including a matchmaker more interested in her own conquests and a TikToker with a dodgy nocturnal sideline, August is confronted with a real-life mystery to solve.

Why is Max Ronson, the handsome but volatile owner of the Hub, so evasive about his past? And who or what is he hiding on the premises? She is determined to find out – but will her curiosity snuff out the spark of romance?

Nicola May mixes mischief with mystery in a fast-paced rural romp which will make Futtingbrook Farm as beloved a location as Ferry Lane Market or Cockleberry Bay.

Perfect for fans of Beth O’Leary, Sarah Morgan, Jill Mansell and Cathy Bramley.

Purchase Links

UK – https://www.amazon.co.uk/Hub-uplifting-laugh-out-loud-romance-mystery-ebook/dp/B0B4PYPFWC/

US – https://www.amazon.com/Hub-uplifting-laugh-out-loud-romance-mystery-ebook/dp/B0B4PYPFWC/

REVIEW ~ NIKI PRESTON ~ 4 STARS

What a great and enjoyable read The Hub is. A fabulous piece of escapist romance with a good splash of mystery to keep you wondering just what is going on at The Hub on the turkey farm? The humour flows off almost every page and the relationship between August and Max is brilliantly written, the back and forth banter is so funny at times, I had many laugh out loud moments. Nicola May has a creative brilliance for the Rom Com genre that she is right up there with the best of them. She doesn’t make it all about hearts and flowers and rippling muscles, although never fear there is some of that too.

The Hub is a great holiday read, well actually it’s a great anywhere read. Relax with a coffee or whatever your preferred drink may be, curl up and lose yourself it a perfect romance with a few twisty bits along the way.

Author Bio –

Nicola May is a rom-com superstar. She is the author of sixteen romantic comedies, all of which have appeared in the Kindle bestseller charts. Her books are translated into fourteen languages. Two of them won awards at the Festival of Romance, and another was named ebook of the week in The Sun. The Corner Shop in Cockleberry Bay became the best-selling Kindle book in the UK, across all genres, in January 2019, and was Amazon’s third-bestselling novel in that year. Described by Winifred Robinson of BBC Radio 4’s You and Yours as ‘the invisible bestselling author’, Nicola campaigned successfully for the introduction of ebook charts in the publishing trade press.

Social Media Links –

T: https://twitter.com/nicolamay1

W: www.nicolamay.com

Nicola May – Home | Facebook

i: https://www.instagram.com/author_nicola/

Book Review “Hidden in the Mists” by Christina Courtaney

BOOK REVIEW NO : 148

Timeslip novel

standalone

length : 336 pages

Publisher: Headline Review

SYNOPSIS/BOOK BLURB

Hidden In The Mists

A love forged in fire lives on through the ages

She stared at the man again. Was he real? Her mind returned to the ghostly figure by the shore and to her strange dream. No, he was not a figment of her imagination.

Skye Logan has been struggling to run her remote farm on Scotland’s west coast alone ever since her marriage fell apart. When a handsome stranger turns up looking for work, it seems that her wish for help has been granted.

Rafe Carlisle is searching for peace and somewhere he can forget about the last few years. But echoes of the distant past won’t leave Skye and Rafe alone, and they begin to experience vivid dreams which appear to be linked to the Viking jewellery they each wear.

It seems that the ghosts of the past have secrets . . . and they have something that they want Skye and Rafe to know.

Purchase Links

UK – https://www.amazon.co.uk/Hidden-Mists-sweepingly-romantic-dual-time-ebook/dp/B09KZMP8B2

US – https://www.amazon.com/Hidden-Mists-sweepingly-romantic-dual-time-ebook/dp/B09KZMP8B2

REVIEW ~NIKI PRESTON ~ 5 STARS

I absolutely love a good timeslip novel and this one is way beyond good. It is truly captivating story that is so emotive I cried and had warm fuzzy feelings all at the same time. If that’s even possible? It is a gentle story that just flows naturally , that’s not to say there isn’t some truly awful outcomes and some violent actions that make you want to warn those involved to run and hide. I found the similarities between the past and present really brought the two worlds alive.

The characters of Ottaar (Viking) and Rafe (present day) and Asta (Viking) and Skye (present day) are so incredibly written that I was drawn to them all. It felt as though Rafe and Skye were actually reincarnated versions of Ottaar and Asta. I was utterly taken in by them all and their stories that brought them together. Its not all plain sailing for any of them but through love and patience and persistence they find a way to live in their worlds together. I highly highly recommend this book to lovers of timeslip, the Viking era, romance and a bit of scary thrown in.

Author Bio –

Christina Courtenay writes historical romance, time slip and time travel stories, and lives in Herefordshire (near the Welsh border) in the UK. Although born in England, she has a Swedish mother and was brought up in Sweden – hence her abiding interest in the Vikings. Christina is a former chairman of the UK’s Romantic Novelists’ Association and has won several awards, including the RoNA for Best Historical Romantic Novel twice with Highland Storms (2012) and The Gilded Fan (2014) and the RNA Fantasy Romantic Novel of the year 2021 with Echoes of the Runes.  Hidden in the Mists (timeslip/dual time romance published by Headline Review 18th August 2022) is her latest novel. Christina is a keen amateur genealogist and loves history and archaeology (the armchair variety).

Social Media Links –

http://www.christinacourtenay.com

https://www.facebook.com/christinacourtenayauthor?fref=ts

https://www.instagram.com/ChristinaCourtenayAuthor/

With Thanks for the advance copy to…..

Rachel Gilby

Christina Courtaney

Headline Review

Book Review “Roman Britain’s Pirate King” by Simon Elliot

BOOK REVIEW NO : 147

History

Non Fiction

Length : 208 pages

Publisher : Pen and Sword Military

SYNOPSIS/BOOK BLURB

In the mid-3rd century AD Roman Britain’s regional fleet, the Classis Britannica, disappeared. It was never to return. Soon the North Sea and English Channel were over-run by Germanic pirates preying upon the east and south coast of Britain, and the continental coast up to the Rhine Delta. The western augustus (senior emperor) Maximian turned to a seasoned naval leader called Marcus Aurelius Mausaeus Valerius Carausius to restore order. He was so successful that Maximian accused him of pocketing the plunder he’d recaptured, ordering his execution. The canny Carausius moved first and in 286 usurped imperial authority, creating a North Sea empire in northern Gaul and Britain which lasted until 296. Dubbed the pirate king, he initially thrived, seeing off early attempts by Maximian to defeat him. However, in the early 290s Maximian appointed his new caesar (junior emperor), Constantius Chlorus (the father of Constantine the Great), to defeat Carausius. A seasoned commander, Constantius Chlorus soon brought northern Gaul back into the imperial fold, leaving Carausius controlling only Britain. Carausius was then assassinated and replaced by Allectus, his treasurer. Allectus was in turn defeated by Constantius Chlorus in AD 296 in the fourth Roman invasion of Britain, the caesar arriving just in time to prevent London being sacked by Allectus’ Frankish mercenaries. Once more Britain was part of the Roman Empire.

REVIEW ~ NIKI PRESTON ~ 5 STARS

There is much more to Roman History than the Rise and Fall that we have heard about in one way or another. Simon Elliot is the master of this era and Roman Britain’s Pirate King is not only highly researched and informative it is also exceptionally entertaining. I began reading with the hope it wouldn’t be a dry and dull read as some History books can be, but no this is a fabulous read that not only tells us about the eventual fourth invasion and British occupation it also tells us about the whole way of life from weapons to wealth and just how the Romans structured their invasions and who the Commanders were and why.

I find Simon Elliot’s writing style really easy to wrap my head around. He tells it how it is without over complicating the wealth of information that he shares. If you love Roman History and really want to learn about it in depth with brilliant photographic evidence including Gold coins, weapons, Busts and ruins then this is absolutely the book for you.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

AUTHOR BIO

Dr Simon Elliott is an historian, archaeologist, broadcaster and Honorary Research Fellow at the University of Kent where he studied for his PhD in Classics and Archaeology on the subject of the Roman military in Britain. He also has an MA in War Studies from KCL and an MA in Archaeology from UCL. For a day job he runs his own PR company, and is a former defence and aerospace journalist at titles including Jane’s Defence Weekly and Flight International. He frequently appears on broadcast media as a presenter and expert, gives talks on Roman themes, Guide Lectures for Andante Travels and is co-Director at a Roman villa excavation. He is also a Trustee of the Council for British Archaeology. His website can be viewed at: http://simonelliott20.com/ (where you can also view his professional broadcast show reel)

With Thanks for the Advance Copy to ….

Pen and Sword https://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/

Book Review “The Highland Hens” by Judy Leigh

BOOK REVIEW NO : 146

Fiction, comedy, love and friendship

Standalone

Length : 350 Pages

Publisher : Boldwood

SYNOPSIS/BOOK BLURB

The Highland Hens

In the imposing Glen Carrick House overlooking Scotland’s famous Loch Ness, lives eighty-eight-year-old Mimi McKinlay, cared for by her three adult sons. Hamish has inherited his mother’s musical talents, Fin is the responsible brother, and Angus has the complicated and brooding personality to match his dashing good looks.

But what all the brothers share is a concern that their beloved mother is living in her memories of her days on stage, while letting her present days pass her by.

Jess Oliver is at a turning point. Amicably divorced after years of being married, this trip to the Highlands is a first taste of independence. It isn’t long before the beauty and hospitality of Scotland captures her heart.

When Mimi and Jess’s paths cross, a friendship is formed that will change both women’s lives.  And as together they find ways to look forward instead of to the past, long forgotten dreams are within reach, and every new day is fresh with possibilities.

Take a trip to the Highlands with Judy Leigh for an unforgettable story of glorious pasts and fabulous futures, of love, friendship, family and fun. The perfect feel-good novel for all fans of Dawn French, Dee Macdonald and Cathy Hopkins.

Purchase Link – https://amzn.to/3xk9wnd

REVIEW ~ NIKI PRESTON ~ 5 STARS PLUS (as 5 stars just isn’t enough)

I always know when I read a Judy Leigh book that I’m in for the best few hours reading. I fell in love with the wonderful Mimi by the end of the first paragraph. As she “tottered” towards her stereo I just felt that she was going to fill me good feelings full of laughter and joy and I wasn’t wrong. Judy has a creative knack to bring happiness to her characters, they are real and utterly believable. Each one has their own little foibles that just make them wonderful to get to know.

Mimi and her naughty best friend Isabella have a zest for life that is totally infectious. They prove that age is just a number, you get one life so just live it to the best you can. Whether 8 or 88 just do what makes you happy, makes you heart swell and makes you feel loved. Friendships are always a strong theme in Judy’s books and boy does she create simply the best friendships. Everyone and every funny moment is incredibly marvellous with a capital M.

As the story unfolds and more and more stunts are pulled by Mimi I kept thinking “I want to be just like this slightly potty but magnificent lady” Jess is having a fab time looking after Mimi and she helps to open our eyes to the fact that 50 somethings can and do live lives to the full with dreams and hopes yet to be fulfilled.

I am not going to ramble on and on, and believe me I could. I just advise you to grab a copy, a coffee and tissues (for the tears of laughter) you will soon be immersed in the life of marvellous Mimi, her 3 son’s, the dark and brooding Angus, handsome and suave Hamish and Fin who seems t have the world on his shoulders. It’s a journey you won’t regret taking.

Author Bio –

Judy Leigh is the USA Today bestselling author of The Old Girls’ Network and Five French Hens and the doyenne of the ‘it’s never too late’ genre of women’s fiction. She has lived all over the UK from Liverpool to Cornwall, but currently resides in Somerset.

Social Media Links

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100005568258864

Twitter https://twitter.com/JudyLeighWriter

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/judyrleigh/

Newsletter Sign Up: https://bit.ly/JudyLeighNews

Bookbub profile: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/judy-leigh

With Thanks for Advance Copy to…..

Rachel Gilby https://www.rachelsrandomresources.com/home

Judy Leigh https://bit.ly/JudyLeighNews

Boldwood Books https://www.boldwoodbooks.com/

Book Review “Rough Diamonds” by Gillian Godden

BOOK REVIEW NO : 145

Gangland Thriller

2nd Book in the Diamonds series

Length : 332 pages

Publisher : Boldwood

SYNOPSIS/BOOK BLURB

Rough Diamonds

Flawed, tough, unbreakable….

In the aftermath of her husband’s shocking murder, Patsy Diamond wants answers. Who was Nick really? Where is all his money? And who killed the man she once loved? Patsy knows exactly who to go to first – Nick’s pregnant mistress, Natasha.

Natasha might seem young and innocent, but Patsy’s certain the girl is hiding something. And the only way to find out what is to keep Natasha close and make her part of the Diamond family.

With the two women forming an unlikely bond, they begin to dig deeper into Nick’s secret life and discover things that shock…and terrify them.

Because Nick Diamond played a deadly game and if the women in his life want payback, then they are going to have to follow his rules – or break them and make their own.

But the strongest diamonds are created under pressure and these women are no exception…

Purchase Link – https://amzn.to/3xG944n

REVIEW ~ NIKI PRESTON ~ 4 STARS (excellent)

Gritty Gangland really sums this book up to a T. Its starts off strong and just doesn’t stop until the last breath taking page. Patsy is one feisty woman who perhaps has bitten off more than she can chew. She was totally in the dark about her dead husbands links to the gangland underworld. She needs to find his missing money and fast before she becomes the next victim. She wants to get to the bottom of it all and doesn’t care who she uses or upsets along the way. She is just brilliant. unfortunately for her, the bad guys think she knows everything which places her in great danger.

Natasha, Nick’s pregnant mistress gets herself embroiled in everything without realising that Patsy is more than likely just using her as a means to an end. She can cry at the drop of a hat and gets the sympathy that makes her appear weak and that she knows nothing. But what does she know? Will Patsy get anything from her? Who will win in the end?

Gillian Godden has a great style that creates brilliant characters. As the pace began to pick up I found myself reading faster as though the book was just encouraging me to read quickly and find out who does what to whom. An utterly compelling read that leaves no stone unturned. There is violence a plenty and raw emotions that have you on the edge of your seat. The perfect Gangland thriller.

Author Bio –

Gillian Godden is a brilliantly reviewed writer of gangland fiction as well as a full-time NHS Key Worker in Hull. She lived in London for over thirty years, where she sets her thrillers, and during this time worked in various stripper pubs and venues which have inspired her stories.

Social Media Links –  

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063044839506

Twitter https://twitter.com/GGodden

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/goddengillian/

Newsletter Sign Up: https://bit.ly/GillianGoddenNews

Bookbub profile: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/gillian-godden

Book Review “Marriage and Mayhem for The Tobacco Girls” by Lizzie Lane

BOOK REVIEW NO : 144

WW2 Saga

Book 5 in The Tobacco Girls Series

Length : 300 pages

Publisher : Boldwood

SYNOPSIS/BOOK BLURB

Marriage and Mayhem for the Tobacco Girls

War is fleeting, but true love last forever…

May 1944

Hope and excitement is in the air when news breaks of the allied forces landing in Normandy. D Day has arrived. However, the day-to-day struggles for the Tobacco Girls continue.

Carole Thomas wants her old life back. She is burdened with the guilt of being a young single mother and considers having baby Paula adopted, but Maisie Miles will do anything to stop her.

Phyllis Mason having found the love of her life is getting married in Malta to Mick Fairbrother, but will the dangerous legacies of war plague her happy day?

Bridget O’Neill finds herself posted to one of the hospitals receiving the injured from the D-Day landing beaches. Her most fervent hope is that her husband, Lyndon, does not become one of them.

Peace is on the horizon, but will their wishes and dreams win through and bring them a happy ever after?

Purchase Link – https://amzn.to/3NJ4w2u

REVIEW ~ NIKI PRESTON ~ 5 STARS

Here we are back with the girls. I am super excited to have read the brilliant next instalment of The Tobacco Girls. These girls feel like they have become part of my life. I can imagine sitting with Maisie next to her fire, having a good old chat. Maisie is still my absolute favourite Tobacco Girl. She is so loyal, no matter what she will do what it takes for her friends. She is feisty and open and says it just as it is. I love her. All the Girls are so vividly created by Lizzie, they just shine out from every page. The emotions are strong and I felt every emotion alongside them. I laughed, cried, held my breathe and prayed for their men to return safely. They all feel so real to me. I just totally lose myself in this awesome Saga.

Lizzie, I feel I can call her just Lizzie as I have spoken to her on Facebook a few times, (That means we are friends doesn’t it?) have a wonderfully emotive style of writing. She draws you right in and gets right into your heart. She leaves nothing out, descriptions of the scenery and the destruction of war are superbly written. Marriage and Mayhem is a powerful and compelling read that sent me off on an emotional journey that had me fighting for these girls, through the injustice they all experience to the love and joy the find in the small things as well as the huge big things, like Marriage that really does come with a lot of Mayhem. Carole very nearly broke my heart. She has major decisions to make now that she is a mother to the gorgeous Paula. How will Maisie react to her decision? Will she let her go ahead? Will the Tobacco Girls finally get the reunion that they so richly deserve? The 3M’s back together just as they should be? I urge you to get this fabulous book, it really is just epically brilliant. LOVE IT!

If you have read the previous books in this incredible series then you absolutely won’t be let down with Marriage and Mayhem. I loved every single word and finished with a very satisfied sigh. I f you haven’t read any of this series then I’m quite jealous as you are about to be immersed in the wonderful world that is The Tobacco Girls. A MAGIFICENT READ.

Author Bio –

Lizzie Lane is the author of over 50 books, a number of which have been bestsellers.  She was born and bred in Bristol where many of her family worked in the cigarette and cigar factories.  This has inspired her saga series for Boldwood The Tobacco Girls

Social Media Links –  

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/jgshaddick

Twitter https://twitter.com/baywriterallat1

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lizzielane40/

Newsletter Sign Up: https://bit.ly/LizzieLaneNews

Bookbub profile: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/lizzie-lane

With thanks for the Advance Copy to ……

Rachel Gilby https://www.rachelsrandomresources.com/home

Lizzie Lane https://bit.ly/LizzieLaneNews

Boldwood Books https://www.boldwoodbooks.com/