Always With Love

• AUTHOR: Giovanna Fletcher
• TOPIC: Novel

⭐️⭐️This is a sequel to “Billy and me”, and though I loved the first book, I didn’t quiet get the same feeling with this one. Unsure why, but it simply didn’t feel the same for me…hence the 2 stars.

Sophie and Billy are on their way to LA for the first time to meet his family. Once there, it’s so clear that it’s another world. The family is cute and welcoming, but the attention they both get while trying to enjoy their vacation, doesn’t sit right with Sophie. Once news spread that Billy is back in town, one of the best movie directors in the city wants him for a role. Hesitant at first, as he is on personal leave, pushed by his mother and ultimately with Sophie’s support, he accepts. But this will mean that a long distance relationship is on the books. Though they start writing each other letters, visiting each other when possible, this new reality puts a huge strain on their relationship. And the gossip magazine doesn’t help. Back home, Molly’s son Peter makes a move on Sophie, misunderstanding their newly former friendship. Will Sophie and Billie make it, despite all the new challenges and bumps along the road? Will they be able to compromise their own dreams and meet in the middle?

The Lost Letters Of William Woolf

• AUTHOR: Helen Cullen
• TOPIC: Novel

My first book by @wordsofhelen, and though it took some time to get into it at first, I ended up loving it. The story has both a side of magical, and a side enrooted in the truths of love and marriage, with notes of despair, longing, and how to stay connected to love even though people are bound to change during relationships. Amazingly written, with touches of almost poetry mixed with internal dialogues, making you feel inside the characters’ heads. Loved it!
William has the most interesting job: he works at the Lost mail depot, where letters that never made it to their destination, find unsung heroes that work like detectives to find out where the letter came from, where it was supposed to go, and try their best to deliver them to their destination. His wife Grace, his greatest love, is a once-wannabe-artist turned into a successful lawyer. Things are not going well in their marriage, mainly with Grace feeling disappointed in William’s lack of ambition and inability to become the writer he promised he would be. When William discovers the most enchanting love letters written by Winter to a unanimous “great love”, he embarks on a journey to find her, unable to resist the magnetic call of a woman who loves so deeply, feeling a connection he once felt to his wife. Just when Grace and William seem to find a way back to each other during a friend’s wedding, William is about to finally let go of his chase to find Winter…but an awful truth coming to light, will push him right back into it, potentially compromising his marriage for good.

The Bromance Book Club

• AUTHOR: Lyssa Kay Adams
• TOPIC: Novel

I have heard so much about this book from @lyssakayadams and all my high expectations were not only met, but also exceeded. Racy at times, the story line is so clever and exciting, that I found myself finishing the book in one sitting. It is so refreshing to read about husbands that would do anything to gain back the love of their wives…instead of just quitting without a fight. Seems that gentleman still exist…at least in this novel. Definitely worth the hype, and highly recommend it!
Nashville Legends second baseman Gavin Scott’s marriage is on the brink: the day he found out that his wife has been unsatisfied in bed during the whole of their marriage, his ego is so burnt that he left the house. And of course, his wife Thea, asked for divorce. Luckily, Gavin’s team mates come to the rescue: they let him into their secrete club. And what they do? They read romance novels to help each other out to save their relationships. Doubtful at first, Gavin knows he has no other choice: he loves his wife and cannot lose her. Not without hiccups, he embarks on a journey of courtship, trying to win her back. Him and Thea strike a deal: he has until Christmas, only 5 weeks to make her change her mind. With a bit of help from the book and his team mates, he is getting closer to his goal. But it’s only when Thea acknowledges her part of the blame, born from her difficult childhood and an absent father, that they will find the way back to each other.

First Comes Love

• AUTHOR: Emily Giffin
• TOPIC: Novel

A story of sisterhood, this novel by @emilygiffinauthor was so good I couldn’t put it down and finished it in one day. I loved the characters, the friendship, the story of loss and the discovery of hidden truths coming up every chapter, which made the book so interesting, honest and enthralling.
Josie and Meredith couldn’t be more different. Josie is a teacher, single, still heartbroken from her last relationship. Meredith an actor turned lawyer, married with one child, always focused on responsibilities. What they do have in common: they lost a brother 15 years ago. When Josie’s ex’s daughter makes an appearance in her class, she cannot hide her growing feelings of motherhood, and sets on a quest for a donor, intent on becoming a mother on her own. Meredith, on the other hand, is struggling with her marriage, wondering if she did the right thing by marrying her late brother’s best friend. When the truth about their brother’s death is surfacing, unveiling hidden secrets from the past, Josie and Meredith will both have to come to terms with their own life decisions, and with each other. Will Josie have the baby? and if so, with whom? Will Meredith quit her job, and her husband? You will need to read to find out!

My Favorite Half-night Stand

• AUTHOR: Christina Lauren
• TOPIC: Novel

@christinalauren is up there between my favorite writers, and I absolutely love anything she writes! I literally devoured this fun, engaging, romantic novel, and I simply cannot wait to read all of her books, one by one.
Millie is a university professor, fascinated by serial killers. Her main traits: she has 4 friends, all male university professors, and she is unable to speak about herself and her feelings. One on of the many evenings they spend together, they discuss about a black-tie gala event they all need to attend to that is getting closer, but they all realize one problem: none of them have dates. And they decide to jump into online dating to solve the issue. Tipsy and worried about the prospect, Millie makes a move on Reid, her best friends amongst them, and they sleep together for the first time…and it’s much better than they both expected. Not allowing this to make things weird, they concentrate on the online dating, and when Millie puts up a fake name profile to enable her to talk about herself openly without being exposed, she matches with Reid. But he doesn’t know. While keeping up the charade, things get intense between them, and they sleep together again. When Reid starts having feelings for Millie’s online alter-ego, the problems really start: Millie is jealous and wants Reid to herself. But how to tell the truth? Without making Reid upset and losing him, and without exposing her feelings?

La Magia De Ser Sofia

• AUTHOR: Elisabet Benavent
• TOPIC: Novel

My second book by this Spanish writer, and she did it again! Read in original language ( because only this way you will savor the real tone of the novel ), it’s sexy, it’s amazingly written, it’s a glorious fun of colloquialism and jokes, with a cloud of sadness that keeps it real. Loved it!
Sofia is 30, not exactly skinny, coming out of relationship cheated on and broken hearted, surrounded by friends, a mother who doesn’t think she is good enough, living with a cat in a shared apartment, and she is a waitress. Since forever. But she loves it: The Alexandria is her life. All is set to change when a stranger steps in the cafe, Hector, who is soon charmed by Alexandria and becomes a regular. Hector is quiet and keeps to himself, but when one day Sofia takes out on him screaming, enraged after seeing her ex seated in the cafe, things start to develop. They slowly get closer to each other, as friends, but they both soon realize they found in each other what they were missing. The only problem: Hector has a girlfriend, Lucia, since 16 years, who is currently living in Geneva but will soon join him. Sofia tries to stay away at first, but it soon apparent that they are falling in love and can’t help it. When Hector decides to break up with Lucia and goes to Geneva to do so, it seems that the new couple will finally be free to live the love that it’s consuming them: the love that they feel will be for life…but will it be that easy? 

The Alexandria Link

• AUTHOR: Steve Berry
• TOPIC: Novel

Steve Berry has a special place in my heart: it is thanks to his novels that years ago, I started reading avidly again. Though I read a lot of different genres, his style of historical, political and religious fiction has always been one of my favorites. I love the conspiracy theories and the action behind each of his tales, and though it has been a while since I last read from him, it was quick to remind him why I always absolutely love it.
Cotton Malone retired in Denmark, but when his ex-wife appears at his doorsteps claiming that his son has been kidnapped, he immediately fires into action. To get his son back, the kidnappers want him to find the Library of Alexandria: a mythological place which existence has never been proven or found, that is meant to be holding thousands of manuscripts from ancient times, some of which might put into danger the world as we know it today. In a story that takes us from Denmark to the UK, from Lisbon to Sinai, from Austria to the USA, with the ever-present back up of his ex-boss from the Magellan Billet and Cassiopea Vitt, Cotton puts his life in danger again for the greater good. With all the most powerful governments involved and at each other’s throats, and a close coup-d’état shaking the US government, Cotton will try to protect the Library and its secrets from a group of wealthy international moguls that are willing to risk the already compromised relationship of the 3 world’s biggest religions, for their own interest. Whatever is in that Library, needs to be preserved and hidden forever.

I Owe You One

• AUTHOR: Sophie Kinsella
• TOPIC: Novel

It is easy to fall in love with anything from @sohpiekinsellawrites and this was no different. A captivating tale of family, love and how to find your own voice, it was a perfect weekend read, that makes you day dream and fills your heart with positiveness and strength.
Fixie is keeping things together at the family hardware store, a legacy from her deceased father. Though her siblings are everything but helpful, she is adamant to keep at least one thing in her life from falling apart. Just when her childhood crush Ryan suddenly reappears in town, she meets a handsome stranger in a cafe, Seb, in the most unusual of ways: she saves his laptop from a collapsing ceiling. Willing to thank her for it, Seb writes an IOU on a coffee sleeve, for her to redeem for anything at any time. When Ryan is desperate looking for a job, Fixie is bullied into exchanging the IOU to help Ryan, but it won’t take very long for him to show his true colors and Fixie finally understanding that he isn’t the one after all. Now she is the one in dept to Seb. Her mother’s sudden sickness and departure for a long vacation, leaves Fixie to battle her siblings to keep the store afloat, and though she knows what she should be doing, she temporarily succumbs to their charades, unable to make her voice heard. That IOU keeps going back and forth between Seb and Fixie, bringing the two close together until they fall in love. But when family issues come in the way, along with misunderstandings and the imminent crash of the store, it will take Fixie finally discovering her voice to finally save it all: her love, her family and her beloved store.

The Prodigal Daughter

• AUTHOR: Jeffrey Archer
• TOPIC: Novel

You will not believe how hard it was to find this book, a sequel to “Abel & Kane”, which I absolutely adored. Shouldn’t have come as a surprise, as this book is not exactly new…it’s dating back to 1982. But…I got lucky, and I can’t wait to read the 3rd and last episode of this magnificent tale. Even more enthralling than the first, amazingly written, fast-paced, filled with surprise moments, you almost feel inside a movie at every page you turn. Though it can be considered an “old book”, do yourself a favor and read all 3.
While the first book was focused on the lives of Kane and Abel, where Florentyna was a part of, without being the protagonist, in this second book all the attention is focused on her. We are taken back to her childhood in more detail, to understand her interests, passions, academic and work experience, and everything that has molded the woman she is today. Focused and ambitious like her father Abel, she builds her own fashion empire, before taking the helm of the Baron hotel group upon her father’s passing. With now two multi-million company to run, she has the best partner next to her: her husband Richard, Kane’s son. Together they initially pursue their own diverse career, before taking the world by storm side by side: first with the Baron group and then with the Lester bank. Even when Florentyna, encouraged by her college best friend Edward, decides to pursue a political career, her husband is right by her side as her biggest counsellor and supporter. From a member of the House of Representatives, to the Senate, to Vice president, Florentyna will incur the loss of many close to her, including her husband, just at the dawn of an unexpected turn of faith which ends the book with her reaching her ultimate dream: becoming the President of the United States.

Things You Save In A Fire

• AUTHOR: Katherine Center
• TOPIC: Novel

I fell in love with @katherinecenter when I read “How to walk away” and she is ever since up there with my favorite writers. And of course, she didn’t disappoint with this tale of courage, love, forgiveness and healing. A great read, which I highly recommend.
Cassie lives for her job as a firefighter in Austin. Nothing else matters to her, because when she was 16 her life changed forever: her mother left, and she was abused. That is why she never does any kind of love. The night she is meant to receive an award of valor, it’s another turning point: the person handing it out to her, it’s her abuser. And she loses control, sending the guy to hospital. The same day, her mom calls to make an impossible request: for Cassie to move in with her for a year, near Boston. Though initially reluctant to leave her life, she is forced into it as her job is on the line. She ends up moving, and joining a new firefighter crew, starting from the bottom, having to prove herself. And the same day, a rookie starts as well, Owen. And she feels towards him a connection she never felt before, bringing down all her defenses, including the ones towards her mother. Soon after, the discovery of her mom tumor makes Cassie change her prospective in life, and though she tried so hard not to love Owen, she gives in, confessing her trauma and having her first kiss and night with a man. When a huge fire threatens to take away Owen from her, she will be no longer afraid to lose her job to her love, and despite someone on the team is trying hard to get Cassie fired, an amazing plot of truths will be revealed that will make for a perfect happy ending.

I Custodi Della Biblioteca

• AUTHORI: Glenn Cooper
• TOPIC: Novel

This read was long overdue, as I didn’t read in italian for a long time. And when I do, @glenn_cooper is my go-to. I read almost all of his books, and in fact this is a sequel of one that I read a few years back. If you are a Dan Brown fan, you will love him. That mix of historical fiction with a bit of action and religious affairs in the way: love it!
The world will end on the 9th of February 2027. This is the discovery that Will Piper made before retiring when he found the Library. On the isle of Wight, a cave was discovered full of volumes dating from the 8th century until the end of the world: each person that has ever lived, is there: their name, date of birth and date of death. The Abbey above the cave was used as protection, and eligible virgins were kept there for only one purpose: keep the dynasty of these unique scribes alive. Until Clarissa decides she has no intention of giving up her baby, and escapes, putting an end to the library. Or so it seams. Years later, she is found by a Father, who sees in Clarissa’s boy the gift of the scribes: from that moment onwards, Clarissa’s family, the Lightburns, will be the gatekeepers of the Library, which also means one thing: the world won’t end on the 9th of February 2027. This is a world-changing news, that comes about when the youngest of the Lightburn family contacts Will’s son Phil for help. This almost unleashes a world war when the Uk, the US and China battle against each other to get control of the surviving Library, while all Will is set out to do, is save his son and hand over the truth to humanity. 

Big Summer

• AUTHOR: Jennifer Weiner
• TOPIC: Novel

My first ever novel by @jenniferweinerwrites and it was nothing as what I expected. In a good way! A tale of insecurities, body shaming, personal come back, complicated friendship…all dusted with a coating of mystery which was really surprising and made me love the book at the more!
Daphne is now a plus-size influencer, but she wasn’t always this brave. Battling her whole life with her body, it took one episode in high school to turn her life around: from victim, to owner of her own destiny. That faithful night, her so-called best friend Drue arranged for a boy to dance with her…but the truth came out soon enough. That night, she decided that it was enough, and the video of her affront went viral, kickstarting her new life and career, breaking her friendship with Drue forever. Just when she signs up with a new collaboration with a clothing brand, Drue reappears in her life, asking her to attend her wedding as bridesmaid. Initially hesitant, she feels bad for Drue and gives in, with the prospect of spending a few glamorous days and maybe meeting someone. And she does, Nick. Only waking up to find Drue dead in her jacuzzi. This shock unleashes a whirlwind of events. While Daphne embarks on a mission to find out who the killer is, she will also discover truth about Drue’s father, about Nick, and about Drue: she wasn’t as bad and evil as everyone thought her to be.

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo

• AUTHOR: Taylor Jenkins Reid
• TOPIC: Novel

All I am going to say is WOW. First time reader of anything by @tjenkinsreid and for sure, not the last. I was totally engrossed in this book and unable to put it down. Reading it was like watching a movie: exciting, rapturing, descriptive, emotional, and true. The life of Hollywood fame is so well described, reminding you that even the biggest stars, are human beings, just like you and me, struggling and feeling just as everybody else.
Newly separated Monique is a reporter in a magazine, and her life is about to change when Evelyn Hugo, one of the biggest Hollywood stars of all times, expressively requests her to write up an article about an upcoming charity event. Only thing is, Evelyn has other plans: she wants Monique to write her full, un-edited, truth-only biography. Reluctant at first, Monique is unable to refuse this incredible life altering opportunity, and agrees. We are than taken through the whole story of Evelyn’s whirlwind life and career, meeting her 7 husbands, and the unexpected love of her life. But the very best part of the book is the end…I know it can sound cliché, but trust me it is. The reason why Evelyn chose Monique will be revealed to you, and you will simply be left with a big WOW, speechless and in awe at the genius of it all. Read it and enjoy!

Don’t You Forget About Me

• AUTHOR: Mhairi McFarlane
• TOPIC: Novel

My second book by @mhairimcf and though I always love them, I always have major issues with the English colloquialisms that she often uses, and have to re-read entire phrases to understand. Aside this, I always have a good laugh thanks to the wittiness of her writing, and come back for more. ( in fact, I have other 2 books of hers on my TBR pile already 🙂 ).
Georgina is having her worst day: she just got fired from her waitressing job at the worst restaurant in town, only to go home and find her boyfriend in bed with someone else. An unexpected twist of luck lands her a last-minute gig at a soon-to-open pub, and despite it being a wake, she loves it, and they love her, and the job becomes permanent. But…one of the owners is Lucas, her first love, who has grown into a handsome man, rich, owning pubs all over the country. And worst of all…he doesn’t seem to recognize her. At all. While enjoying her new job, Georgina battles her ex-boyfriend attempts to gain her back in the most horrible ways; fights with her manipulative step-dad; rebuilds her relationship with her mom and her sister; and begins to write again thanks to the “share your shame” stand up reading competition that the pub is hosting. One night, Lucas opens up about his past, and she does too, uncovering her most intimate secrets about her dad, and she kisses him, only to be rejected and find out that he faked not knowing her all along. She resigns, hurt, only to come back to “share your shame” once more to tell the story she never told anyone: what happened that famous day 12 years ago when both their hearts were broken.

Persuasion: The Art of Influencing People

• AUTHOR: James Borg
• TOPIC: Self-development

In this book, Persuasion: The Art of Influencing People, James Borg is throughout and detailed in everything that communicates, and how this affects everything we do in life. From our words, to our tone of voice, from our body language to our ability to read others, it takes you on a journey filled with examples to learn from. It emphasizes the importance of how small changes in the way we talk and engage with other can have unexpected effects and results. The main topics explored are: empathy, being a good listener, keeping attention, controlling your body language, cultivate memory skills, how to say the right things at the right time, the importance of telephone etiquette, negotiation, dealing with difficult people and how to deal with different personality types. All this, with one goal in mind: how to convince people to listen to you, and follow you…or how he likes to describe it: how to take people from point A to point B, without even realizing it. Though some parts of the book might seem “common knowledge”, I like to think that common sense is no longer so common anymore, so I definitely suggest this book for anyone who needs a reminder and a refresher on the topic, or for those who are at loss and need to advice on how to master this very important art of communication. 

Summer Days & Sea Breezes

• AUTHOR: Carole Matthews
• TOPIC: Novel

Another favorite of mine, @matthews.carole doesn’t disappoint with this easy breezy novel. I love how she is able to transport you to another time and place, to a story that though feels real…it’s always filled with hope and a touch of romance. Her stories keep you grounded but make you fly at the same time, reminding you of the important things in life whilst allowing your imagination to fly.
Jodie is leaving London behind, towards the Isle of Wight. Escaping her life, her husband and her broken heart, she is set to spend time alone to put herself together, by spending as long as needed on her brother’s refurbished boat, “Sunny Days”. Easier said than done, when Marylin shows up with food and cleaning intentions, and a dose of cheer and vitality. Irritated as first, she slowly lets herself go, exploring the vicinity, meeting new people…especially Ned, her next-boat neighbor. While at her first ever festival, her and Ned get closer, and it just feels right and not a casual fling at all. But upon their return to the boat, the sudden appearance of her ex husband Chris quickly breaks the spell. And Ned walks away feeling cheated and heartbroken. With no other choice than returning to her normal life, Jodie vows to save her marriage and returns to London. Work is her only respite, and while her creativity seems to be back to where it’s supposed to be, her marriage sinks and breaks when her doubts about her husband come true: he was cheating on her with her best friend. She immediately returns to the boat, where she decides to stay for good, working remotely and with a sole objective in mind: find Ned, explain her story, and hopefully win him back. 

After The End

• AUTHOR: Claire Mackintosh
• TOPIC: Novel

My first ever read by @claremackwrites and it didn’t disappoint. A gripping story of parenting, love and loss, of second chances and failure, of fear and bitterness. I also really loved the “sliding door” scenario that makes the second part of the book come to life, where the author explores how life would/could have been different, should different choices have been made.
Pip and Max are a strong couple, together forever and making it work since day one, despite their very demanding jobs which has them both traveling all the time. Things change when their son is born. And change even more when he gets very sick, diagnosed with a brain tumor when he is not ever 3 years old. Despite initial hopes of a recovery after the surgery, things take a turn for the worse and the hospital’s recommendation is to cease treatment aside palliative care. Called onto making a decision on the fate of their son, Pip and Max cannot agree. One wants to give their son another chance at life, no matter how small. The other wants to end all suffering and put a stop to a non-life spent in hospital without being able to move. Unable to reach a consensus, they fall apart, and end up in court. The rest of the story takes you on a journey into past and future, navigating what life would have been based on the two different choices. And one thing is clear…no matter what, it will not be an easy ride. 

Always With Love

• AUTHOR: Giovanna Fletcher
• TOPIC: Novel

⭐️⭐️This is a sequel to “Billy and me”, and though I loved the first book, I didn’t quiet get the same feeling with this one. Unsure why, but it simply didn’t feel the same for me…hence the 2 stars.

Sophie and Billy are on their way to LA for the first time to meet his family. Once there, it’s so clear that it’s another world. The family is cute and welcoming, but the attention they both get while trying to enjoy their vacation, doesn’t sit right with Sophie. Once news spread that Billy is back in town, one of the best movie directors in the city wants him for a role. Hesitant at first, as he is on personal leave, pushed by his mother and ultimately with Sophie’s support, he accepts. But this will mean that a long distance relationship is on the books. Though they start writing each other letters, visiting each other when possible, this new reality puts a huge strain on their relationship. And the gossip magazine doesn’t help. Back home, Molly’s son Peter makes a move on Sophie, misunderstanding their newly former friendship. Will Sophie and Billie make it, despite all the new challenges and bumps along the road? Will they be able to compromise their own dreams and meet in the middle?

The Lost Letters Of William Woolf

• AUTHOR: Helen Cullen
• TOPIC: Novel

My first book by @wordsofhelen, and though it took some time to get into it at first, I ended up loving it. The story has both a side of magical, and a side enrooted in the truths of love and marriage, with notes of despair, longing, and how to stay connected to love even though people are bound to change during relationships. Amazingly written, with touches of almost poetry mixed with internal dialogues, making you feel inside the characters’ heads. Loved it!
William has the most interesting job: he works at the Lost mail depot, where letters that never made it to their destination, find unsung heroes that work like detectives to find out where the letter came from, where it was supposed to go, and try their best to deliver them to their destination. His wife Grace, his greatest love, is a once-wannabe-artist turned into a successful lawyer. Things are not going well in their marriage, mainly with Grace feeling disappointed in William’s lack of ambition and inability to become the writer he promised he would be. When William discovers the most enchanting love letters written by Winter to a unanimous “great love”, he embarks on a journey to find her, unable to resist the magnetic call of a woman who loves so deeply, feeling a connection he once felt to his wife. Just when Grace and William seem to find a way back to each other during a friend’s wedding, William is about to finally let go of his chase to find Winter…but an awful truth coming to light, will push him right back into it, potentially compromising his marriage for good.

The Bromance Book Club

• AUTHOR: Lyssa Kay Adams
• TOPIC: Novel

I have heard so much about this book from @lyssakayadams and all my high expectations were not only met, but also exceeded. Racy at times, the story line is so clever and exciting, that I found myself finishing the book in one sitting. It is so refreshing to read about husbands that would do anything to gain back the love of their wives…instead of just quitting without a fight. Seems that gentleman still exist…at least in this novel. Definitely worth the hype, and highly recommend it!
Nashville Legends second baseman Gavin Scott’s marriage is on the brink: the day he found out that his wife has been unsatisfied in bed during the whole of their marriage, his ego is so burnt that he left the house. And of course, his wife Thea, asked for divorce. Luckily, Gavin’s team mates come to the rescue: they let him into their secrete club. And what they do? They read romance novels to help each other out to save their relationships. Doubtful at first, Gavin knows he has no other choice: he loves his wife and cannot lose her. Not without hiccups, he embarks on a journey of courtship, trying to win her back. Him and Thea strike a deal: he has until Christmas, only 5 weeks to make her change her mind. With a bit of help from the book and his team mates, he is getting closer to his goal. But it’s only when Thea acknowledges her part of the blame, born from her difficult childhood and an absent father, that they will find the way back to each other.

First Comes Love

• AUTHOR: Emily Giffin
• TOPIC: Novel

A story of sisterhood, this novel by @emilygiffinauthor was so good I couldn’t put it down and finished it in one day. I loved the characters, the friendship, the story of loss and the discovery of hidden truths coming up every chapter, which made the book so interesting, honest and enthralling.
Josie and Meredith couldn’t be more different. Josie is a teacher, single, still heartbroken from her last relationship. Meredith an actor turned lawyer, married with one child, always focused on responsibilities. What they do have in common: they lost a brother 15 years ago. When Josie’s ex’s daughter makes an appearance in her class, she cannot hide her growing feelings of motherhood, and sets on a quest for a donor, intent on becoming a mother on her own. Meredith, on the other hand, is struggling with her marriage, wondering if she did the right thing by marrying her late brother’s best friend. When the truth about their brother’s death is surfacing, unveiling hidden secrets from the past, Josie and Meredith will both have to come to terms with their own life decisions, and with each other. Will Josie have the baby? and if so, with whom? Will Meredith quit her job, and her husband? You will need to read to find out!

My Favorite Half-night Stand

• AUTHOR: Christina Lauren
• TOPIC: Novel

@christinalauren is up there between my favorite writers, and I absolutely love anything she writes! I literally devoured this fun, engaging, romantic novel, and I simply cannot wait to read all of her books, one by one.
Millie is a university professor, fascinated by serial killers. Her main traits: she has 4 friends, all male university professors, and she is unable to speak about herself and her feelings. One on of the many evenings they spend together, they discuss about a black-tie gala event they all need to attend to that is getting closer, but they all realize one problem: none of them have dates. And they decide to jump into online dating to solve the issue. Tipsy and worried about the prospect, Millie makes a move on Reid, her best friends amongst them, and they sleep together for the first time…and it’s much better than they both expected. Not allowing this to make things weird, they concentrate on the online dating, and when Millie puts up a fake name profile to enable her to talk about herself openly without being exposed, she matches with Reid. But he doesn’t know. While keeping up the charade, things get intense between them, and they sleep together again. When Reid starts having feelings for Millie’s online alter-ego, the problems really start: Millie is jealous and wants Reid to herself. But how to tell the truth? Without making Reid upset and losing him, and without exposing her feelings?

La Magia De Ser Sofia

• AUTHOR: Elisabet Benavent
• TOPIC: Novel

My second book by this Spanish writer, and she did it again! Read in original language ( because only this way you will savor the real tone of the novel ), it’s sexy, it’s amazingly written, it’s a glorious fun of colloquialism and jokes, with a cloud of sadness that keeps it real. Loved it!
Sofia is 30, not exactly skinny, coming out of relationship cheated on and broken hearted, surrounded by friends, a mother who doesn’t think she is good enough, living with a cat in a shared apartment, and she is a waitress. Since forever. But she loves it: The Alexandria is her life. All is set to change when a stranger steps in the cafe, Hector, who is soon charmed by Alexandria and becomes a regular. Hector is quiet and keeps to himself, but when one day Sofia takes out on him screaming, enraged after seeing her ex seated in the cafe, things start to develop. They slowly get closer to each other, as friends, but they both soon realize they found in each other what they were missing. The only problem: Hector has a girlfriend, Lucia, since 16 years, who is currently living in Geneva but will soon join him. Sofia tries to stay away at first, but it soon apparent that they are falling in love and can’t help it. When Hector decides to break up with Lucia and goes to Geneva to do so, it seems that the new couple will finally be free to live the love that it’s consuming them: the love that they feel will be for life…but will it be that easy? 

The Alexandria Link

• AUTHOR: Steve Berry
• TOPIC: Novel

Steve Berry has a special place in my heart: it is thanks to his novels that years ago, I started reading avidly again. Though I read a lot of different genres, his style of historical, political and religious fiction has always been one of my favorites. I love the conspiracy theories and the action behind each of his tales, and though it has been a while since I last read from him, it was quick to remind him why I always absolutely love it.
Cotton Malone retired in Denmark, but when his ex-wife appears at his doorsteps claiming that his son has been kidnapped, he immediately fires into action. To get his son back, the kidnappers want him to find the Library of Alexandria: a mythological place which existence has never been proven or found, that is meant to be holding thousands of manuscripts from ancient times, some of which might put into danger the world as we know it today. In a story that takes us from Denmark to the UK, from Lisbon to Sinai, from Austria to the USA, with the ever-present back up of his ex-boss from the Magellan Billet and Cassiopea Vitt, Cotton puts his life in danger again for the greater good. With all the most powerful governments involved and at each other’s throats, and a close coup-d’état shaking the US government, Cotton will try to protect the Library and its secrets from a group of wealthy international moguls that are willing to risk the already compromised relationship of the 3 world’s biggest religions, for their own interest. Whatever is in that Library, needs to be preserved and hidden forever.

I Owe You One

• AUTHOR: Sophie Kinsella
• TOPIC: Novel

It is easy to fall in love with anything from @sohpiekinsellawrites and this was no different. A captivating tale of family, love and how to find your own voice, it was a perfect weekend read, that makes you day dream and fills your heart with positiveness and strength.
Fixie is keeping things together at the family hardware store, a legacy from her deceased father. Though her siblings are everything but helpful, she is adamant to keep at least one thing in her life from falling apart. Just when her childhood crush Ryan suddenly reappears in town, she meets a handsome stranger in a cafe, Seb, in the most unusual of ways: she saves his laptop from a collapsing ceiling. Willing to thank her for it, Seb writes an IOU on a coffee sleeve, for her to redeem for anything at any time. When Ryan is desperate looking for a job, Fixie is bullied into exchanging the IOU to help Ryan, but it won’t take very long for him to show his true colors and Fixie finally understanding that he isn’t the one after all. Now she is the one in dept to Seb. Her mother’s sudden sickness and departure for a long vacation, leaves Fixie to battle her siblings to keep the store afloat, and though she knows what she should be doing, she temporarily succumbs to their charades, unable to make her voice heard. That IOU keeps going back and forth between Seb and Fixie, bringing the two close together until they fall in love. But when family issues come in the way, along with misunderstandings and the imminent crash of the store, it will take Fixie finally discovering her voice to finally save it all: her love, her family and her beloved store.

The Prodigal Daughter

• AUTHOR: Jeffrey Archer
• TOPIC: Novel

You will not believe how hard it was to find this book, a sequel to “Abel & Kane”, which I absolutely adored. Shouldn’t have come as a surprise, as this book is not exactly new…it’s dating back to 1982. But…I got lucky, and I can’t wait to read the 3rd and last episode of this magnificent tale. Even more enthralling than the first, amazingly written, fast-paced, filled with surprise moments, you almost feel inside a movie at every page you turn. Though it can be considered an “old book”, do yourself a favor and read all 3.
While the first book was focused on the lives of Kane and Abel, where Florentyna was a part of, without being the protagonist, in this second book all the attention is focused on her. We are taken back to her childhood in more detail, to understand her interests, passions, academic and work experience, and everything that has molded the woman she is today. Focused and ambitious like her father Abel, she builds her own fashion empire, before taking the helm of the Baron hotel group upon her father’s passing. With now two multi-million company to run, she has the best partner next to her: her husband Richard, Kane’s son. Together they initially pursue their own diverse career, before taking the world by storm side by side: first with the Baron group and then with the Lester bank. Even when Florentyna, encouraged by her college best friend Edward, decides to pursue a political career, her husband is right by her side as her biggest counsellor and supporter. From a member of the House of Representatives, to the Senate, to Vice president, Florentyna will incur the loss of many close to her, including her husband, just at the dawn of an unexpected turn of faith which ends the book with her reaching her ultimate dream: becoming the President of the United States.

Things You Save In A Fire

• AUTHOR: Katherine Center
• TOPIC: Novel

I fell in love with @katherinecenter when I read “How to walk away” and she is ever since up there with my favorite writers. And of course, she didn’t disappoint with this tale of courage, love, forgiveness and healing. A great read, which I highly recommend.
Cassie lives for her job as a firefighter in Austin. Nothing else matters to her, because when she was 16 her life changed forever: her mother left, and she was abused. That is why she never does any kind of love. The night she is meant to receive an award of valor, it’s another turning point: the person handing it out to her, it’s her abuser. And she loses control, sending the guy to hospital. The same day, her mom calls to make an impossible request: for Cassie to move in with her for a year, near Boston. Though initially reluctant to leave her life, she is forced into it as her job is on the line. She ends up moving, and joining a new firefighter crew, starting from the bottom, having to prove herself. And the same day, a rookie starts as well, Owen. And she feels towards him a connection she never felt before, bringing down all her defenses, including the ones towards her mother. Soon after, the discovery of her mom tumor makes Cassie change her prospective in life, and though she tried so hard not to love Owen, she gives in, confessing her trauma and having her first kiss and night with a man. When a huge fire threatens to take away Owen from her, she will be no longer afraid to lose her job to her love, and despite someone on the team is trying hard to get Cassie fired, an amazing plot of truths will be revealed that will make for a perfect happy ending.

I Custodi Della Biblioteca

• AUTHORI: Glenn Cooper
• TOPIC: Novel

This read was long overdue, as I didn’t read in italian for a long time. And when I do, @glenn_cooper is my go-to. I read almost all of his books, and in fact this is a sequel of one that I read a few years back. If you are a Dan Brown fan, you will love him. That mix of historical fiction with a bit of action and religious affairs in the way: love it!
The world will end on the 9th of February 2027. This is the discovery that Will Piper made before retiring when he found the Library. On the isle of Wight, a cave was discovered full of volumes dating from the 8th century until the end of the world: each person that has ever lived, is there: their name, date of birth and date of death. The Abbey above the cave was used as protection, and eligible virgins were kept there for only one purpose: keep the dynasty of these unique scribes alive. Until Clarissa decides she has no intention of giving up her baby, and escapes, putting an end to the library. Or so it seams. Years later, she is found by a Father, who sees in Clarissa’s boy the gift of the scribes: from that moment onwards, Clarissa’s family, the Lightburns, will be the gatekeepers of the Library, which also means one thing: the world won’t end on the 9th of February 2027. This is a world-changing news, that comes about when the youngest of the Lightburn family contacts Will’s son Phil for help. This almost unleashes a world war when the Uk, the US and China battle against each other to get control of the surviving Library, while all Will is set out to do, is save his son and hand over the truth to humanity. 

Big Summer

• AUTHOR: Jennifer Weiner
• TOPIC: Novel

My first ever novel by @jenniferweinerwrites and it was nothing as what I expected. In a good way! A tale of insecurities, body shaming, personal come back, complicated friendship…all dusted with a coating of mystery which was really surprising and made me love the book at the more!
Daphne is now a plus-size influencer, but she wasn’t always this brave. Battling her whole life with her body, it took one episode in high school to turn her life around: from victim, to owner of her own destiny. That faithful night, her so-called best friend Drue arranged for a boy to dance with her…but the truth came out soon enough. That night, she decided that it was enough, and the video of her affront went viral, kickstarting her new life and career, breaking her friendship with Drue forever. Just when she signs up with a new collaboration with a clothing brand, Drue reappears in her life, asking her to attend her wedding as bridesmaid. Initially hesitant, she feels bad for Drue and gives in, with the prospect of spending a few glamorous days and maybe meeting someone. And she does, Nick. Only waking up to find Drue dead in her jacuzzi. This shock unleashes a whirlwind of events. While Daphne embarks on a mission to find out who the killer is, she will also discover truth about Drue’s father, about Nick, and about Drue: she wasn’t as bad and evil as everyone thought her to be.

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo

• AUTHOR: Taylor Jenkins Reid
• TOPIC: Novel

All I am going to say is WOW. First time reader of anything by @tjenkinsreid and for sure, not the last. I was totally engrossed in this book and unable to put it down. Reading it was like watching a movie: exciting, rapturing, descriptive, emotional, and true. The life of Hollywood fame is so well described, reminding you that even the biggest stars, are human beings, just like you and me, struggling and feeling just as everybody else.
Newly separated Monique is a reporter in a magazine, and her life is about to change when Evelyn Hugo, one of the biggest Hollywood stars of all times, expressively requests her to write up an article about an upcoming charity event. Only thing is, Evelyn has other plans: she wants Monique to write her full, un-edited, truth-only biography. Reluctant at first, Monique is unable to refuse this incredible life altering opportunity, and agrees. We are than taken through the whole story of Evelyn’s whirlwind life and career, meeting her 7 husbands, and the unexpected love of her life. But the very best part of the book is the end…I know it can sound cliché, but trust me it is. The reason why Evelyn chose Monique will be revealed to you, and you will simply be left with a big WOW, speechless and in awe at the genius of it all. Read it and enjoy!

Don’t You Forget About Me

• AUTHOR: Mhairi McFarlane
• TOPIC: Novel

My second book by @mhairimcf and though I always love them, I always have major issues with the English colloquialisms that she often uses, and have to re-read entire phrases to understand. Aside this, I always have a good laugh thanks to the wittiness of her writing, and come back for more. ( in fact, I have other 2 books of hers on my TBR pile already 🙂 ).
Georgina is having her worst day: she just got fired from her waitressing job at the worst restaurant in town, only to go home and find her boyfriend in bed with someone else. An unexpected twist of luck lands her a last-minute gig at a soon-to-open pub, and despite it being a wake, she loves it, and they love her, and the job becomes permanent. But…one of the owners is Lucas, her first love, who has grown into a handsome man, rich, owning pubs all over the country. And worst of all…he doesn’t seem to recognize her. At all. While enjoying her new job, Georgina battles her ex-boyfriend attempts to gain her back in the most horrible ways; fights with her manipulative step-dad; rebuilds her relationship with her mom and her sister; and begins to write again thanks to the “share your shame” stand up reading competition that the pub is hosting. One night, Lucas opens up about his past, and she does too, uncovering her most intimate secrets about her dad, and she kisses him, only to be rejected and find out that he faked not knowing her all along. She resigns, hurt, only to come back to “share your shame” once more to tell the story she never told anyone: what happened that famous day 12 years ago when both their hearts were broken.

Persuasion: The Art of Influencing People

• AUTHOR: James Borg
• TOPIC: Self-development

In this book, Persuasion: The Art of Influencing People, James Borg is throughout and detailed in everything that communicates, and how this affects everything we do in life. From our words, to our tone of voice, from our body language to our ability to read others, it takes you on a journey filled with examples to learn from. It emphasizes the importance of how small changes in the way we talk and engage with other can have unexpected effects and results. The main topics explored are: empathy, being a good listener, keeping attention, controlling your body language, cultivate memory skills, how to say the right things at the right time, the importance of telephone etiquette, negotiation, dealing with difficult people and how to deal with different personality types. All this, with one goal in mind: how to convince people to listen to you, and follow you…or how he likes to describe it: how to take people from point A to point B, without even realizing it. Though some parts of the book might seem “common knowledge”, I like to think that common sense is no longer so common anymore, so I definitely suggest this book for anyone who needs a reminder and a refresher on the topic, or for those who are at loss and need to advice on how to master this very important art of communication. 

Summer Days & Sea Breezes

• AUTHOR: Carole Matthews
• TOPIC: Novel

Another favorite of mine, @matthews.carole doesn’t disappoint with this easy breezy novel. I love how she is able to transport you to another time and place, to a story that though feels real…it’s always filled with hope and a touch of romance. Her stories keep you grounded but make you fly at the same time, reminding you of the important things in life whilst allowing your imagination to fly.
Jodie is leaving London behind, towards the Isle of Wight. Escaping her life, her husband and her broken heart, she is set to spend time alone to put herself together, by spending as long as needed on her brother’s refurbished boat, “Sunny Days”. Easier said than done, when Marylin shows up with food and cleaning intentions, and a dose of cheer and vitality. Irritated as first, she slowly lets herself go, exploring the vicinity, meeting new people…especially Ned, her next-boat neighbor. While at her first ever festival, her and Ned get closer, and it just feels right and not a casual fling at all. But upon their return to the boat, the sudden appearance of her ex husband Chris quickly breaks the spell. And Ned walks away feeling cheated and heartbroken. With no other choice than returning to her normal life, Jodie vows to save her marriage and returns to London. Work is her only respite, and while her creativity seems to be back to where it’s supposed to be, her marriage sinks and breaks when her doubts about her husband come true: he was cheating on her with her best friend. She immediately returns to the boat, where she decides to stay for good, working remotely and with a sole objective in mind: find Ned, explain her story, and hopefully win him back. 

After The End

• AUTHOR: Claire Mackintosh
• TOPIC: Novel

My first ever read by @claremackwrites and it didn’t disappoint. A gripping story of parenting, love and loss, of second chances and failure, of fear and bitterness. I also really loved the “sliding door” scenario that makes the second part of the book come to life, where the author explores how life would/could have been different, should different choices have been made.
Pip and Max are a strong couple, together forever and making it work since day one, despite their very demanding jobs which has them both traveling all the time. Things change when their son is born. And change even more when he gets very sick, diagnosed with a brain tumor when he is not ever 3 years old. Despite initial hopes of a recovery after the surgery, things take a turn for the worse and the hospital’s recommendation is to cease treatment aside palliative care. Called onto making a decision on the fate of their son, Pip and Max cannot agree. One wants to give their son another chance at life, no matter how small. The other wants to end all suffering and put a stop to a non-life spent in hospital without being able to move. Unable to reach a consensus, they fall apart, and end up in court. The rest of the story takes you on a journey into past and future, navigating what life would have been based on the two different choices. And one thing is clear…no matter what, it will not be an easy ride. 

The Happy Ever After Playlist

• AUTHOR: Abby Jimenez
• TOPIC: Novel

My second book from @authorabbyjimenez and it didn’t disappoint. I laughed, I cried, I daydreamed, I hoped ( that man like Jason actually exist in this world ). It’s one of those books that are romantic without being cheesy. One of those that give you faith in true love though born from imagination. We need books like these in life, words and pages and stories that make you dream and have faith. And we also need a best friend like Kirsten in our lives too! She was my favorite. Loved it! Highly recommend.
Two years after losing her fiancé, artist Sloan is still living in the limbo of the past, unable to move forward, unable to paint again. And when she least expects it, something happens in her life that will change everything forever: a dog jumps into her car. After weeks of trying to contact the owner, he finally calls her demanding the dog back. But she is adamant to keep it, unless he will prove to her that he really loves his dog. Texts are followed by phone calls, and they both start developing feelings for each other, before meeting in person two weeks after. Sloan is afraid to love again, but cannot resist Jason’s pull. When she gives in to a date, her best friend Kirsten finds out that Jason it’s actually Jaxon, a famous upcoming singer that Sloan is a huge fan of. After overcoming the first shock, they can’t help falling in love for each other, visiting his family, before his tour starts. Growing fame is upon Jaxon, and with his tour extended beyond the initial plans, he asks Sloan to join him around the world, and she accepts. When life on tour becomes too hard to bear, he sacrifices himself by sending Sloan to his family house to rest and paint, but they cannot stay apart. Only when misunderstandings, new career developments and a blast from his past come flooding in, is Jaxon forced to make up a lie to hurt Sloan so much that she will never forgive him. All this, for love: he doesn’t want her to give up her life and dreams for him…he wants her to be happy. But don’t worry, because as the title says, there is a happily ever after waiting for you at the end of the story.