January Release: 'White Lies and Wishes' by Cathy Bramley!

What happens when what you wish for is only half the story...?
Flirtatious, straight-talking Jo Gold says she’s got no time for love; she’s determined to save her family’s failing footwear business. 
New mother Sarah Hudson has cut short her maternity leave to return to work. She says she’ll do whatever it takes to make partner at the accountancy firm. 
Bored, over-eating housewife Carrie Radley says she just wants to shift the pounds – she’d love to finally wear a bikini in public. 
The unlikely trio meet by chance one winter’s day, and in a moment of ‘Carpe Diem’ madness, embark on a mission to make their wishes come true by September. 
Easy. At least it would be, if they hadn’t been just the teensiest bit stingy with the truth…
With hidden issues, hidden talents, and hidden demons to overcome, new friends Jo, Carrie and Sarah must admit to what they really, really want, if they are ever to get their happy endings.
Oh, I absolutely love the fact that 2017 is kicking off in such a fantastic way when it comes to the January book releases. I absolutely love Cathy Bramley and I'm SO excited that this very first month of the year brings a completely new novel written by her! 'White Lies and Wishes' promises to be a lovely chick lit read and I really can't wait to dive into this story and learn more about Jo, Sarah and Carrie!

Review: 'Comfort and Joy' by Cathy Bramley (2016)

It’s been a busy year for Verity Bloom at the Plumberry School of Comfort Food, but Christmas Eve is finally here. With delicious treats all wrapped up and the ingredients packed away, Verity is looking forward to a relaxing few days with her new boyfriend.
Good food, family and friends – it’s a simple recipe for true comfort and joy, and all Verity’s friends in the village are full of excitement about the holidays too.
But the weather has other plans in store… Relentless rain leads to a power cut that spells disaster for many of Plumberry’s residents. It’s starting to look like this year’s celebrations could be a total washout.
With dreams of a perfect Christmas dashed, will the last of the festive cheer be swept away in the downpour? Or can the cookery school create a Christmas miracle for everyone Verity holds dear?
Slowly but surely we are getting closer and closer to Christmas and I couldn't be more excited! I love December and all the preparations for the holidays and one of the most important things that comes with that: Christmas novels! For the past few years I've saved all my festive-themed reading for November and December, which makes sure I'm in the ultimate Christmas mood by the time the end of the year arrives! However, I do like to make a sneaky exception every now and again and that's what I did with Cathy Bramley's 'Comfort and Joy'. This festive novella was released on October 13th and I was lucky enough to receive an early review copy of this beauty...!
'Comfort and Joy' invites readers to revisit the Plumberry School of Comfort Food (the setting of author Cathy Bramley's previous novel) and familiar faces such as Verity, Tom, Pixie and Mags. All of them have had a busy year and can't wait for Christmas to finally spend some time with their family and friends. However, the weather gods have other plans as rain keeps pouring down, causing floods and all kinds of other problems in the area. Will Verity and her friends be able to save Christmas or is everything destined to be ruined this time around?
Cathy Bramley's 'Comfort and Joy' (which has a truly gorgeous cover in my opinion!) is a short sequel to 'The Plumberry School of Comfort Food.' While you can definitely read this novella as a stand-alone, just like me, I do think it will be even more enjoyable if you actually know these characters and what they've already been through together. As usual, Cathy has created a wonderful group of characters and a lovely setting, and I loved reading every page of this quick read, also thanks to Ms. Bramley's simply fantastic and comfortable writing style.
This novella is filled to the brim with Christmas joy and it almost felt like wrapping a warm festive-themed blanket around myself. The holiday decorations, bringing friends and family together during horrible weather, a lot of smiles and friendship and love... It immediately brought a smile to my face and I'm sure no one will be able to finish this read and NOT smile. Once again, a thoroughly good read by author Cathy Bramley; 'Comfort and Joy' is a lovely, short, feel-good story filled with Christmas cheer... I can't wait for it to be December!

Rating:10/10

  For more information about this book: Amazon.co.uk / Amazon.com / Goodreads
Thanks to the publisher and author for providing me with a review copy in exchange for an honest review.

Upcoming Release: 'The Plumberry School of Comfort Food' by Cathy Bramley

Verity Bloom hasn't been interested in cooking anything more complicated than the perfect fish finger sandwich, ever since she lost her best friend and baking companion two years ago.

But an opportunity to help a friend lands her right back in the heart of the kitchen. The Plumberry School of Comfort Food is due to open in a few weeks' time and needs the kind of great ideas that only Verity could cook up. And with new friendships bubbling and a sprinkling of romance in the mix, Verity finally begins to feel like she's home.

But when tragedy strikes at the very heart of the cookery school, can Verity find the magic ingredient for Plumberry while still writing her own recipe for happiness?

I've got only love for Cathy Bramley and her simply amazing novels! <3 I've had the pleasure of reading 'Ivy Lane', 'Appleby Farm' and 'Wickham Hall', and on the 30th of June Cathy's next full-length novel 'The Plumberry School of Comfort Food' will hit the shelves, which is definitely something worth getting excited about! I've had the pleasure of reading the first part of Cathy's new novel, which was already published in 4 separate e-books, and I really enjoyed it (click here to read my review). I can't wait to read the full-length novel this summer and look forward to finally holding a paperback copy of the book in my hands!
Amazon.co.uk / Amazon.com / Goodreads

Review: 'The Plumberry School of Comfort Food - Part 1' by Cathy Bramley (2016)

Verity Bloom hasn't been interested in cooking anything more complicated than the perfect fish finger sandwich, ever since she lost her best friend and baking companion two years ago. 
But an opportunity to help a friend is about to land her right back in the heart of the kitchen! The Plumberry School of Comfort Food is due to open in a few weeks’ time and has rather gone off the boil. It needs the kind of great ideas that only Verity could cook up . . .
But as Verity tries to balance stirring up publicity, keeping their top chef sweet and soothing her aching heart, will her move to Plumberry prove to be a sheer delight... or a recipe for disaster?
The Plumberry School of Comfort Food is an irresistibly charming novel told in four parts – following the adventures of Verity Bloom in love, friendship and cooking. This is the first part.
Cathy Bramley is one of my absolute favourite chick lit authors. I fell head over heels in love with her novel 'Ivy Lane' quite some time ago and since then she has treated us to fantastic reads like 'Appleby Farm' and 'Wickham Hall' (click here to read my review). Cathy's novels really have absolutely everything I look for in a read and so far none of her books have disappointed me. Needless to say, I had pretty high hopes when I started the first part of Cathy's newest serialised novel, 'The Plumberry School of Comfort Food.' The question is, though: did Cathy live up to these expectations with her new series or were my expectations perhaps too high after loving her previous work so much? I had no idea, but I had a good feeling Cathy wouldn't disappoint, definitely not.
After discovering her boyfriend has been cheating on her and losing her job, all on the same day, Verity Bloom needs something to distract her from all the misery in her life. After the completely unexpected death of her best friend Mimi two years ago, Verity has never really done anything with her passion for cooking, but the perfect opportunity to pick this up again arrives in the form of the Plumberry School of Comfort Food. Verity's help is desperately needed and before she knows it, she finds herself back in the kitchen while also dealing with all kinds of complications, including the move to a new village, the publicity for the school to attract students, and a rather handsome top chef...
Cathy Bramley has done it again! Obviously this is just the first part of this new series set at the Plumberry School of Comfort Food, but it's a promising start and one I really enjoyed reading from start to finish. It's quite a quick read and sets the scene perfectly; providing the reader with the chance to get to know main character Verity, the secondary characters and the setting, in this case a new cooking school in the small town of Plumberry. I straight away fell in love with Verity, her personality and interesting background story, and Plumberry and its wonderful inhabitants. 
I really admire Cathy for how she manages to come up with a great and fascinating new setting and collection of characters over and over again. We've had gardening, farming, events at a big country estate, and now it's cooking at a school... I love it and can't wait for more. This is a great book to pick up for anyone who's looking for a quick read, or anyone who's not yet familiar with Cathy's writing and would like to give it a taste. I can safely say that if you love chick lit, you will love Cathy's work, so don't hesitate to give it a shot. The first part of 'The Plumberry School of Comfort Food' is a promising and great start to a new Cathy Bramley series; I can't wait to read more!

Rating:10/10

  For more information about this book: Amazon.co.uk / Amazon.com / Goodreads

Thanks to the publisher for providing me with a review copy in exchange for an honest review.

Review: 'Wickham Hall' by Cathy Bramley (2016)

Holly Swift has just landed the job of her dreams: events co-ordinator at Wickham Hall, the beautiful manor home that sits proudly at the heart of the village where she grew up. Not only does she get to organise for a living and work in stunning surroundings, but it will also put a bit of distance between Holly and her problems at home.
As Holly falls in love with the busy world of Wickham Hall - from family weddings to summer festivals, firework displays and Christmas grottos - she also finds a place in her heart for her friendly (if unusual) colleagues.
But life isn’t as easily organised as an event at Wickham Hall (and even those have their complications…). Can Holly learn to let go and live in the moment? After all, that’s when the magic happens…
I love Cathy Bramley. Over the past few years she has become one of my absolute favourite chick lit authors and I really can't get enough of her amazing novels. After 'Conditional Love', 'Ivy Lane', and 'Appleby Farm' (click here to read my review), Cathy is now treating us to a new release titled 'Wickham Hall.' The book was originally published as a four-part e-book serial, followed by the complete novel in paperback on January 14th. I have to admit the cover and title of the book are probably my favourites of Cathy so far and I was simply over the moon when I found a review copy of the novel on my doorstep. I just knew this book wasn't going to disappoint and couldn't wait to get lost in another one of Cathy's wonderful stories!
Holly Swift has always had a special place in her heart for Wickham Hall, the big country manor in the village she grew up in. She remembers spending a lot of time there with her mum when she was just a little girl, and there's quite simply no other place like it. So, when Holly discovers Wickham Hall is looking for a new Events assistant, her dream job, she can't apply quickly enough. Her passion and excitement manage to do the trick and soon Holly finds herself going to work at Wickham Hall every day. But every job has its challenges, and that definitely turns out to be true for Wickham Hall as well. While dealing with troubles at home, all Wickham Hall events and her colleagues, Holly has enough on her plate, especially when handsome heir Ben appears on the scene as well...
Do you know that feeling that you love a story and its characters and setting so much, you just never want the book to end? That's exactly what 'Wickham Hall' did to me; it truly is Cathy Bramley's best novel up until now, if you ask me, and a book I can't possibly recommend enough! I'm a big fan of old country manors, so I already knew I would love Wickham Hall. However, Cathy managed to not only have a great setting at the core of the story, but combined it with a fantastic group of characters, a captivating and well-paced storyline, and a lovely romance. I fell in love with each aspect of this novel and honestly cannot think of anything I didn’t like (except for the fact that there won’t be another part of the story!).
One of the absolute strengths of Cathy’s writing is her ability to create an amazing cast of characters. I immediately fell in love with main character Holly (who I could easily become best friends with!), and secondary characters such as chef Jenny, Holly’s best friend Esme, Lord and Lady Fortescue and their son Ben, and lovely security guard Jim. The book also is well-paced and includes several storylines, which had me entertained at all times. I could keep on gushing about this novel and Cathy herself, but I think I’ve made my point! ‘Wickham Hall’ is another heart-warming and simply gorgeous novel I couldn’t get enough of; another stunner by the wonderful Cathy Bramley! 

Rating:10/10

  For more information about this book: Amazon.co.uk / Amazon.com / Goodreads

Thanks to the publisher for providing me with a review copy in exchange for an honest review.

Review: 'Appleby Farm' by Cathy Bramley (2015)

Freya Moorcroft has wild red hair, mischievous green eyes, a warm smile and a heart of gold. She’s been happy working at the café round the corner from Ivy Lane allotments and her romance with her new boyfriend is going well, she thinks, but a part of her still misses the beautiful rolling hills of her Cumbrian childhood home: Appleby Farm.
Then a phone call out of the blue and a desperate plea for help change everything…
The farm is in financial trouble, and it’s taking its toll on the aunt and uncle who raised Freya. Heading home to lend a hand, Freya quickly learns that things are worse than she first thought. As she summons up all her creativity and determination to turn things around, Freya is surprised as her own dreams for the future begin to take shape.
Love makes the world go round, according to Freya. Not money. But will saving Appleby Farm and following her heart come at a price?
Doesn’t the book cover of Cathy Bramley’s ‘Appleby Farm’ just make you want to smile? I love the gorgeous and colourful cover and it immediately makes me long for a trip to a small and lovely UK village where I never want to leave again! On August 13th, Corgi released the paperback version of ‘Appleby Farm’ and I was so happy when I found a review copy in my mailbox (which was made even more special when I discovered I was mentioned in the Acknowledgements, thanks so much, Cathy!). The novel was actually already released as an e-book series consisting of 4 separate parts last year, but now the stunning paperback version has also hit the book shop shelves. I just knew I would end up falling head over heels in love with this book as soon as I turned to the very first page, and I definitely did!
Freya Moorcraft has never been able to really settle down. She flies from one project to another; spreading her wings whenever she thinks it's time for something new. While Freya really likes her job at a small cafe in the town of Kingsfield, and is busy falling in love with her lovely boyfriend Charlie, one phone call from her aunt changes all of that. Her uncle has had an accident which means Freya's help is desperately needed at Appleby Farm, the gorgeous place where Freya spent a lot of time when she was younger. It doesn't take long before Freya discovers the farm is in financial trouble and she decides she will do anything it takes to save it. However, this does mean leaving her new life and boyfriend behind and starting over again. Will following her heart bring Freya what she wants and will it be worth risking everything she has?
Cathy Bramley is undoubtedly becoming one of my favourite chick lit authors. After the absolutely lovely 'Ivy Lane', she has now treated us to another amazing read in the form of 'Appleby Farm', which I loved from start to finish. Cathy Bramley really has her own writing style which manages to completely grab the reader and pull them into the story. She knows how to create simply wonderful places, such as Appleby Farm (in the beautiful Lake District), and groups of fascinating and just lovely characters. Protagonist Freya was such a loveable ball of energy and some of you might remember her from 'Ivy Lane', in which she already made an appearance. I loved discovering more about Freya, her past and her dreams. But there are numerous other great characters which I fell in love with straight away, such as Freya's lovely aunt and uncle, her childhood friend Harry, and her new friend Lizzie. 
I personally really loved the storyline, especially that it consisted of numerous aspects that held my attention throughout and resulted in me not wanting to put the book down. I was completely immersed in the world of Appleby Farm and didn't want to leave! There is also a great touch of romance in the story which made my heart beat a bit faster... I don't have anything else but positive things to say about this read! It really had absolutely everything I look for in an entertaining read and it has made me fall in love with Cathy Bramley even more. 'Appleby Farm' is a fabulously feel-good, warm-hearted and simply delightful read which I didn't want to ever end. A must-read for any chick lit/rom com fan and one of my personal favourites of 2015!

Rating:10/10

  For more information about this book: Amazon.co.uk / Amazon.com / Goodreads

Thanks to the publisher for providing me with a review copy in exchange for an honest review.

Cover Reveal: 'Wickham Hall' by Cathy Bramley!

I can't even begin to explain how excited I am about Cathy Bramley's upcoming new series titled 'Wickham Hall'! Cathy's other novels have been absolutely amazing reads and I'm 100% sure 'Wickham Hall' will be just as fantastic! I'm really excited to be part of the cover reveal for 'Wickham Hall' today and I hope all of you will love the gorgeous book cover as much as I do!

The series will be published digitally in four parts this year and then in a complete novel both digitally and in paperback in 2016:

Wickham Hall Part One – Hidden Treasures 25 June

Wickham Hall Part Two – Summer Secrets 23 July

Wickham Hall Part Three – Sparks Fly 24 September

Wickham hall Part Four – White Christmas 26 November

Here’s the blurb!

Holly Swift has just landed the job of her dreams: events co-ordinator at Wickham Hall, the beautiful manor home that sits proudly at the heart of the village where she grew up. Not only does she get to organise for a living and work in stunning surroundings, but it will also put a bit of distance between Holly and her problems at home.

Holly loves the busy world of Wickham Hall - from family weddings to summer festivals, firework displays and Christmas grottos. But life isn't as easily organised as an event at Wickham Hall (and even those have their complications...). Can Holly learn to let go and live in the moment?

After all, that's when the magic happens...

Click here to pre-order the first part of 'Wickham Hall' on Amazon.co.uk now!

Cover Reveal: 'Appleby Farm' by Cathy Bramley!

I'm incredibly excited to be a part of the cover reveal for Cathy Bramley's novel 'Appleby Farm' today! The series has already been released in 4 separate e-book parts, but the full Kindle and paperback version will be released on the 13th of August!

Appleby Farm is a charming, funny and romantic story for anyone looking for a feel-good, light-hearted read, from the author of bestselling Ivy Lane. 
Freya Moorcroft has wild red hair, mischievous green eyes, a warm smile and a heart of gold. She’s been happy working at the café round the corner from Ivy Lane allotments and her romance with her new boyfriend is going well, she thinks, but a part of her still misses the beautiful rolling hills of her Cumbrian childhood home: Appleby Farm.
Then a phone call out of the blue and a desperate plea for help change everything…
The farm is in financial trouble, and it’s taking its toll on the aunt and uncle who raised Freya. Heading home to lend a hand, Freya quickly learns that things are worse than she first thought. As she summons up all her creativity and determination to turn things around, Freya is surprised as her own dreams for the future begin to take shape.
Love makes the world go round, according to Freya. Not money. But will saving Appleby Farm and following her heart come at a price?
Isn't the book cover simply stunning?! I LOVE it and I can't wait to get my hands on a copy of the paperback version of the book as soon as it's released in August!

Blog Tour: 'Ivy Lane' by Cathy Bramley

Tilly Parker needs a fresh start, fresh air and a fresh attitude if she is ever to leave the past behind and move on with her life. As she seeks out peace and quiet in a new town, taking on a plot at Ivy Lane allotments seems like the perfect solution.
But the friendly Ivy Lane community has other ideas and gradually draw Tilly in to their cosy, comforting world of planting seedlings, organizing bake sales and planning seasonal parties.
As the seasons pass, will Tilly learn to stop hiding amongst the sweetpeas and let people back into her life – and her heart?
I'm really honoured and excited to be part of the blog tour for Cathy Bramley's amazing novel 'Ivy Lane' today! The book was first released by Transworld Digital in separate e-book instalments in 2014, divided into four parts fitting the four seasons of the year: Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter. On the 26th of February, the paperback version of the novel was released, which has a simply gorgeous cover, if you ask me! Before I read 'Ivy Lane' I was already familiar with Cathy Bramley's work, since I was asked to review her novel 'Conditional Love' last year (click here to read my review). I really enjoyed it, so I couldn't wait to check out the entire story of 'Ivy Lane'!
Thirty-year-old Tilly Parker has been through a lot and she is ready to start anew and try to leave the past behind. She has moved to a new town where she hopes to build up a new peaceful life for herself, and in order to give her something to stay busy with she has got herself her own plot at Ivy Lane allotments. However, after her first few visits to her new plot, Tilly quickly finds out the Ivy Lane community wants nothing more than to welcome her with open arms and let her become a part of their group. Question is, is Tilly really ready to step away from the past and focus on the here and now? 
Luckily the story inside this novel fits the absolutely gorgeous cover; it’s amazing! I loved everything about ‘Ivy Lane’ and I honestly couldn’t get enough of the characters and everything they go through together. The main protagonist Tilly is incredibly easy to like so it didn’t take long for me to warm to her and to start rooting for her. It’s obvious from the start Tilly is running away from something that has happened in her past and she needs to start afresh. I loved joining Tilly on this journey and seeing her develop as a character from start to finish. Next to Tilly, there is a great collection of colourful characters, each with a different personality, ranging from all ages, who all come together at Ivy Lane allotments. I fell in love with quirky and outspoken Gemma, who owns the plot next to Tilly’s; handsome fire-fighter Charlie, and cute and friendly Alf. 
The author’s writing style is so warm, engaging and easy to read. I went through all kinds of emotions while reading this story, from laughing out loud to frustration to sadness (I even had tears in my eyes a few times which doesn’t happen that easily to me while reading!). Even though I’m not the gardening type myself, I fell in love with the idea of an allotment and the way it brings people together. I also loved the different seasons and how this was reflected in the allotments and the different events taking place, such as Halloween, Christmas, bake sales in the sun. ‘Ivy Lane’ is an incredibly warm, uplifting, charming read about friendship, family, and not giving up on life, even when the times get rough. Cathy Bramley is an author to watch and ‘Ivy Lane’ is a read you do not want to miss!

Rating:10/10

  For more information about this book: Amazon.co.uk / Amazon.com / Goodreads

Thanks to the publisher for providing me with a review copy in exchange for an honest review.

Cover Reveal: 'Conditional Love' by Cathy Bramley

I'm incredibly excited to share the new cover of Cathy Bramley's upcoming release 'Conditional Love' with all of you today! The book cover looks amazing and Cathy has even written some words to share with all of you today!
 

A takeaway, TV and tea with two sugars is about as exciting as it gets for thirty-something Sophie Stone. Sophie’s life is safe and predictable, which is just the way she likes it, thank you very much.

But when a mysterious benefactor leaves her an inheritance, Sophie has to accept that change is afoot. There is one big catch: in order to inherit, Sophie must agree to meet the father she has never seen.

Saying ‘yes’ means the chance to build her own dream home, but she’ll also have to face the past and hear some uncomfortable truths…

With interference from an evil boss, warring parents, an unreliable boyfriend and an architect who puts his foot in it every time he opens his mouth, will Sophie be able to build a future on her own terms – and maybe even find love along the way?

***

Some words from Cathy Bramley herself! -->

I am thrilled to announce that a new ebook* edition of CONDITIONAL LOVE is being published by Transworld on Friday 5^th December.

I first published CONDITIONAL LOVE myself on Amazon in October 2013 but now it has had the full Transworld treatment.

It is essentially the same story, with the same characters and the same happy ending. So what is different about it?

Well, I feel like my writing has developed since I first wrote it almost two years ago and so when Transworld very kindly gave me the opportunity to re-write it, working closely as usual with my editor, Harriet Bourton, I jumped at the chance. I took on board her editorial comments, sharpened up the narrative, tweaked some of the characters and generally I’ve given the book a more punchy, fast-moving feel.

I asked Harriet to share her thoughts about this new edition of the book in her own words:

I first read CONDITIONAL LOVE before I’d met Cathy. I’d seen her on Twitter talking to bloggers I follow and I was impressed by her cover for the book and the reviews she had, so I bought it and started reading. That one casual purchase led to Cathy’s deal with Transworld and a creative, fun and rewarding new author relationship. Some happy months later, Cathy and I set about looking at CONDITIONAL LOVE with a fresh eye. I thought the novel was wonderful, full of Cathy’s trademark warmth, comfort and good humour, but being an editor we can never leave well enough alone, and I had some ideas for how Cathy could squeeze even more out of the story. The heart of the novel is still the same, and the over-arching plot and characters too, but I think of this new refreshed edition of CONDITIONAL LOVE as being the high-definition version: brimming with colour and romance, sharp witted and lively from beginning to end, and impossible to resist once you’ve taken a glance!

I am delighted with what Harriet and I have achieved together this year and I hope readers will approve too. And of course the most exciting bit— is the sparkly new cover!

I must admit I was a bit nervous about having a new cover; I’ve had so much lovely feedback from people about the old cover with the red umbrella. But I needn’t have worried. Illustrator, Kate Forrester, who has designed all the Ivy Lane and Appleby Farm covers, has done an amazing job and honestly can’t stop looking at the new look CONDITIONAL LOVE.

What do you think?!

Click here to order the book on Amazon.co.uk now!

November 2014 releases! (1/2)

If you are a big Christmas and/or winter fan, just like me, many of the upcoming November 2014 book releases will certainly have you jumping up and down with joy! The upcoming month seems to include releases by some of the most amazing authors within the world of chick lit and I can't wait to get my hands on each of these exciting new stories. November is the month in which the days really start to get colder and shops are seriously getting into the Christmas atmosphere, and I am already looking forward to spending frosty evenings inside with a comfy blanket on the couch, some cinnamon-scented candles, a big cup of tea/hot chocolate and one of these promising novels!  

Which releases are you looking forward to the most? Feel free to share your thoughts by leaving a comment to this post! :)

Swati Sharma -Fashionably Yours' (1st November)

Maya Kapoor arrived in Mumbai with a glamorous dream, quite literally. Maya wants to be a serious fashion writer for the high-end fashion magazine, Glamorous but luck is not in her favour. Instead, she lands a job with a local fashion magazine, Style. Maya hates everything about it but for now this is all she has. Despite all the odds, Maya is excited about living an independent, fashionable life in the city of dreams.

At twenty-five, love has eluded Maya. But when she bumps into the dashing photographer, Aryan Malik, she falls head over heels for his gorgeous smile and charming manner.

But Maya seems to be stuck in a rut - her credit card bills are sky-high, her melodramatic mother can't stop ranting, the boss is unbearably cruel, her younger sister has decided to tie the knot, and she's not sure if Aryan could love a simple, confused girl like her.

Will Maya get the fairytale life she dreamed about or will she let everything slip through her fingers? Read her diary and find out.

Why so excited? --> Swati Sharma is one of the reviewers over at Chick Lit Club, just like me, and I'm really excited her debut novel will be released on the 1st of November! The book tells the story of Maya who is starting a new life in Mumbai. I really like the cover of the book and have a feeling it will be a really enjoyable read!

Amazon.co.uk / Amazon.com / Goodreads

 

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Jodi Picoult – 'Leaving Time' (4th November)

Jenna Metcalf was with her mother the night she disappeared in tragic and mysterious circumstances, but she remembers nothing.

Over ten years have passed, and still Jenna reads and rereads her mother's journals, hoping to find some clue hidden there, in the meticulous recording of her scientific research with elephants.

Desperate for answers, Jenna uses all her savings to recruit the aid of a private detective - and a psychic.

Jenna knows her mother loved her. She knows she would not leave her. And she will not rest until she finds out what happened that night.

Why so excited? --> Lots of people who enjoy women's fiction consider Jodi Picoult one of the best authors on the block. I have to admit I haven't read many of her works, but I've already read some positive reviews for 'Leaving Time', which will be released on the 4th of November in the UK, so I'm quite curious to check it out!

Amazon.co.uk / Amazon.com / Goodreads

 

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Abby Clements - 'Confetti at Christmas' (5th November)

Holly Madison never set out to be a wedding planner. She was just helping her stressed sister Lila with cakes and décor for her big day. But when Lila and Jack's summer ceremony is a runaway success, with high-profile guests raving about the food and styling at the pretty treehouse venue, word about Holly's expertise soon spread. 

A year on, Holly has a fast-growing business on her hands, and she is struggling to keep up. 

Boyfriend Marco worries that with so little experience she could be heading for a fall. After all, Holly's clients expect the very best - she's promised lawyers Mia and Eliot a snow-covered castle in the Scottish Highlands, and laidback couple Josh and Sarah a bohemian beach wedding in a Caribbean paradise. But as weather, in-laws, and wilful brides conspire against her, will she be able to deliver?

Why so excited? --> Unfortunately, Abby Clements' upcoming release doesn't have a cover image yet, but the blurb has already convinced me that I need to read this as soon as it's available! I love Abby Clements' stories and 'Confetti at Christmas' sounds like such a lovely read. I love books about weddings and I honestly think this will be one of my favourite November releases!

Amazon.co.uk / Amazon.com / Goodreads

 

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Marian Keyes – 'The Woman Who Stole My Life' (6th November)

'Okay, I'll write my introduction. 'Name: Stella Sweeney. Height: average. Recent life events: dramatic.'

Stella Sweeney is an ordinary woman living an ordinary life with her husband Ryan and their two teenage kids in Dublin. She works with - or really for - her terrifyingly ambitious sister Karen in their beauty salon. Nothing to get excited about here. Nothing to make her particularly unhappy. Or happy...

No-one would be interested in stealing her life. But then things started to happen... One day, Stella, attempting a good deed, causes a little car accident and faces down a bad tempered, handsome stranger. She hardly gives it much of a thought. But karma is hovering, and is about to take over, swoop in and change Stella's life for ever. For better or worse.

Suddenly Stella has a life. A thrilling glamorous one. A life that other people might start to covet...

Why so excited? --> If you ask me, this cover is already enough to get excited about; it's stunning! Marian Keyes is one of the household names within the world of chick lit and her novels are always great reads. I'm really excited about 'The Woman Who Stole My Life' and can't wait to pick it up!

Amazon.co.uk / Amazon.com / Goodreads

 

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Scarlett Bailey – 'Secret Santa' (6th November)

A self-confessed Christmas queen, Sue Montaigne prides herself on organising the annual nativity pageant in her small Cornish village of Poldore.

But this year, what with having to deal with the repairs on Castle House after it was wrecked by a terrible storm, training a new – and frankly flighty – Virgin Mary and managing a Joseph who is allergic to sheep, she is distinctly lacking a little bit of ‘me time’.

And then there are the auditions for the new Santa. But nothing prepares her for the beautiful man who turns up, a twinkle in his eye and a promise to make her Christmas dreams come true…

Why so excited? --> Christmas time would not be complete without a Scarlett Bailey Christmas story to get into a festive mood! This author's Christmas novels never disappoint, so I have high hopes for 'Secret Santa'! 

Amazon.co.uk / Amazon.com / Goodreads

 

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Cathy Bramley – 'Ivy Lane: Winter' (6th November)

As winter descends on Ivy Lane, the frost sparkles and icy winds flurry - but Tilly is still reeling from the events of the Hallowe'en party. Only the die-hard plot holders brave the cold weather, and Tilly fears the loneliness that gripped her a year ago will return.

Resolute to stay cheerful, she throws herself into organizing both the inaugural Ivy Lane Great Cake Competition and the Christmas Party, and even squeezes in a little match-making along the way.

Surrounded by her friends at the Christmas Party, Tilly has come a long way in a year. She can feel her own heart slowly melting, but who will be waiting under the mistletoe?

Why so excited? --> Cathy Bramley's 'Ivy Lane' is a serialized novel in which the reader gets to join Tilly Parker on a year in her life, and Winter is the fourth and last part of the series. So far, I've only read 'Spring', but I really enjoyed it and I have no doubt the other parts are just as amazing as the first.

Amazon.co.uk / Amazon.com / Goodreads

 

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Judy Astley – 'It Must Have Been The Mistletoe' (6th November)

Thea's parents decide to host a big family Christmas in a house by the sea. Even though they are, in fact, about to split up. Thea herself is newly single - her sister and brother are both settled, with children, homes and a future. But Thea's boyfriend has ditched her in favour of his pedigree dogs, and Thea can't decide whether or not she minds.

There will be copious food and drink, holly and mistletoe, lots of bracing walks and a wintry barbecue on the beach. If it seems an odd way to celebrate the final break-up of a marriage and the Moving On to new partners, no- one is saying so. But then no-one had anticipated that the new partners might actually turn up to complicate the sleeping arrangements.

As Cornwall experiences the biggest snowstorm in living memory, the festive atmosphere comes under some strain. Will Thea manage to find some happiness for herself? Will the mistletoe work its magic on them all?

Why so excited? --> Another wonderful Christmas novel to look forward to this November! I love Judy Astley's work; her stories usually include great characters with a specific focus on family, and they are set in beautiful Cornwall, which also sounds like a great setting for a Christmas novel! 

Amazon.co.uk / Amazon.com / Goodreads

 

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Lucy Diamond – 'Christmas Gifts at The Beach Cafe' (6th November)

After a hectic summer running her beach café in Cornwall, Evie Flynn is looking forward to her first Christmas with new boyfriend Ed – she’s determined that it’s going to be the most perfectly romantic one ever. Cosy nights in front of the fire, spicy mulled wine, mince pies... what’s not to love? 

But the peace is shattered when Ed’s ex suddenly gets in touch again, and then some unexpected guests arrive: Ed’s surly brother Jake and Evie’s heartbroken best friend Amber. Add in the stress of trying to finish her very own recipe book, snow blizzards and family dramas and Evie’s Christmas starts to look as if it’ll be a total turkey. Will any of her festive wishes come true... or is this Christmas just a recipe for disaster?

Why so excited? --> Lucy Diamond is treating us to a special Christmas novella this November in which we get to revisit the characters from her novel 'The Beach Cafe'. I'm a big fan of Lucy Diamond's work and I'm really excited she's releasing a Christmas novella this year!

Amazon.co.uk / Amazon.com / Goodreads

 

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Rachael Lucas - 'Sealed with a Christmas Kiss' (6th November)

Kate has taken to life on the remote Scottish island of Auchenmor like a seal to water: she's given a new lease of life to the Laird's estate in her day job; she's befriended the once-nosy locals; and even young Laird Roddy is not quite so grumpy these days.

Better still, Kate has just had her best idea yet: they'll turn the castle into the most gorgeous wedding venue in Scotland. The pressure's on as the first wedding is booked in for Christmas Eve - just weeks away. But with a mismatched bride and groom, a hysterical PR on her case, her own relationship woes and a huge storm blowing in, can Kate pull it off in time?

Why so excited? --> Another Christmas novella based on an existing chick lit novel! In this case Rachael Lucas is treating us to a Christmas story based on her book 'Sealed With a Kiss'. A Scottish castle and a Christmas wedding... That's already more than enough to count me in! 

Amazon.co.uk / Amazon.com / Goodreads

 

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Alexandra Brown – 'The Great Christmas Knit Off' (6th November)

Heartbroken after being jilted at the altar, Sybil has been saved from despair by her knitting obsession and now her home is filled to bursting with tea cosies, bobble hats, and jumpers. But, after discovering that she may have perpetrated the cock-up of the century at work, Sybil decides to make a hasty exit and, just weeks before Christmas, runs away to the picturesque village of Tindledale.

There, Sybil discovers Hettie’s House of Haberdashery, an emporium dedicated to the world of knitting and needle craft. But Hettie, the outspoken octogenarian owner, is struggling and now the shop is due for closure. And when Hettie decides that Sybil’s wonderfully wacky Christmas jumpers are just the thing to add a bit of excitement to her window display, something miraculous starts to happen…

Why so excited? --> Alexandra Brown is well-known for her lovely Carringtons' book series and I'm so excited she will be releasing a completely new novel this November! 'The Great Christmas Knit Off' sounds like a stunning story and I honestly can't wait to have a finished copy in my hands!

Amazon.co.uk / Amazon.com / Goodreads

 

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Trisha Ashley - 'Footsteps in the Snow and other Teatime Treats' (6th November)

From her novels to her magazine articles Trisha Ashley has been writing all her life and this is a collection of her work brought together in a single edition for the first time.

A fabulous collection of short stories from the Sunday Times bestselling author. Perfect to curl up with on a winter’s evening.

Why so excited? --> Trisha Ashley is a fabulous author and on the 6th of November a collection of short stories, perfect for a cold winter's evening, will be released. I've really enjoyed some of Trisha's novels in the past and I'm sure this collection will include some wonderfully enjoyable winter-themed stories. 

Amazon.co.uk / Amazon.com / Goodreads

 

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Karen Swan – 'Christmas In The Snow' (6th November)

No secret stays buried forever...

In London, the snow is falling and Christmas is just around the corner - but Allegra Fisher barely has time to notice. She's pitching for the biggest deal of her career and can't afford to fail. And when she meets attractive stranger, Sam Kemp, on the plane to the meeting, she can't afford to lose her focus either. She learned to shut off her emotions long ago and only her sister and best friend Isobel knows why. But when Allegra finds herself up against Sam for the bid, their passion quickly turns sour.

In Zermatt in the Swiss Alps, a long-lost mountain hut is discovered in the snow after sixty years and the last person expecting to become involved is Allegra - she hasn't even heard of the woman they found inside. But it soon becomes clear the two women are linked and, as she and Iz travel out to make sense of the mystery, hearts thaw and dark secrets are uncovered, long buried by the snow.

Why so excited? --> Karen Swan is another author who releases a great Christmas-themed novel every year. 'Christmas in the Snow' sounds intriguing and I really hope I will be able to check out my first Karen Swan novel this year!

Amazon.co.uk / Amazon.com / Goodreads

 
Be sure to check back tomorrow for more November 2014 releases!