Book Review #Fairytale of NewYork #Christmas Romance Fiction #Contemporary #Zoe FolBigg #Boldwood Publishers

                                       MY THOUGHTS AND BOOK REVIEW

Title: Fairytale of New York

Author: Zoë Folbigg

Genre: Romance, Contemporary Fiction

Rating 5/5

In Zoë Folbigg's enchanting novel "Fairytale of New York," readers are swept into a heartwarming winter romance that unfolds against the backdrop of a bustling New York City during Christmas. With a blend of love, suspense, and an unputdownable plot, this story is a delightful addition to the festive season, captivating audiences from the very first page.

Thirty-two-year-old Charlie Brown is eagerly headed to New York, filled with anticipation to reunite with her boyfriend, Harry. However, upon landing, her excitement turns to anxiety and confusion as Harry is nowhere to be found. The absence of his familiar presence leaves Charlie bewildered and worried. Without any sign or response from Harry, Charlie confronts her worst fears about their relationship.

Determined to uncover the truth, Charlie refuses to leave New York until she uncovers the mystery behind Harry's disappearance. As she navigates the unfamiliar cityscape, she finds solace and support from a charming new acquaintance, Pete. Together, they embark on a journey that not only leads to revelations about Harry but also prompts Charlie to reevaluate her own self-worth and desires for a happily-ever-after.

Zoë Folbigg crafts a captivating narrative that effortlessly blends romance, friendship, and self-discovery. The story unfolds with suspense, drawing readers into Charlie's emotional rollercoaster and her quest for answers in a city teeming with holiday cheer. Amidst the twinkling lights and festive spirit of New York, the novel beautifully explores themes of love, resilience, and the importance of believing in one's worth.

"Fairytale of New York" is a charming and heartwarming read that captures the essence of the holiday season while tugging at the heartstrings of readers. Folbigg's storytelling prowess shines through her engaging characters and an enticing plot that keeps readers eagerly flipping pages. With elements of warmth, emotion, and a dash of serendipity, this novel is perfect for fans of heartfelt romances seeking a delightful winter escape.

For those who cherish tales of love, friendship, and self-discovery amidst the magic of Christmas, Zoë Folbigg's "Fairytale of New York" promises an engaging and uplifting experience that reaffirms the power of belief in oneself and the joy of unexpected connections in the most enchanting of settings.

Thanks to Netgalley and Boldwood books for an advanced digital copy of my honest review

Book Description

New from the NUMBER ONE bestselling author of The Note. A must-read winter romance for fans of When Harry Met Sally! 'A wonderful read that’s got everything – romance, suspense, a New York Christmas setting and an unputdownable plot.' Samantha Tonge

Thirty-two-year-old Charlie Brown has a plane to catch.

As Christmas approaches, she is New York bound, to be reunited with boyfriend Harry after work has kept them apart.

But once she lands, Harry is nowhere to be found…

There’s no hand-drawn sign with her name being brandished at the gate. No answer from Harry's phone. And all at once, Charlie’s worst fears come true.

What has happened to Harry? And what should Charlie do now that she’s an ocean away from home?

As Charlie slowly comes to terms with her predicament, she makes a decision. She’s not leaving New York without finding out the truth, and with a little help from her handsome new friend Pete, there might still be a path to happily-ever-after…

Bestseller Zoë Folbigg returns with a page-turning story of love, friendship and learning to believe in your own worth. Perfect for fans of Mike Gayle, JoJo Moyes and David Nicholls.

Genres: Christmas Romance Fiction 

405 pages, Kindle Edition

Publication Date:  August 28, Boldwood Publishers

Book Review #The Sewing Factory Girls #Posy Lovell #Historical Fiction #Orion Publishing #Historical Romance

 

                                      MY THOUGHTS AND BOOK REVIEW

Title: The Sewing Factory Girls

Author: Posy Lovell

Genre: Historical Fiction

RATING 4.7/5

Posy Lovell's "The Sewing Factory Girls" is an evocative and poignant narrative inspired by the resilient and courageous women who worked at the Singer Factory in Clydebank, Scotland, during the early 20th century. This uplifting and emotionally rich novel delves into themes of friendship, solidarity, and the unwavering determination of women fighting for better working conditions.

Set against the backdrop of early 1911 in Clydebank, Ellen, along with her sister Bridget, Bridget's fiancé Malcolm, and newfound friend Sadie, finds herself employed at the sewing machine factory. For Sadie, it's a means of survival following her father's passing, but for Ellen, sewing runs through her veins, evident in her dedication to crafting Bridget's wedding dress on her cherished sewing machine.

However, the excitement of Bridget's wedding fades quickly when Ellen discovers unsettling changes in their work conditions. The cabinet polishers, including Ellen, face reorganization that would demand more work for reduced pay. Feeling betrayed by the very establishment she considered family, Ellen is determined to resist, whereas Sadie takes a more pragmatic approach. They join forces with other women, fueled by the idea of a strike they've read about, much to the disapproval of manager Malcolm.

Amidst these challenges, Bridget faces her own struggles, torn between loyalty to her husband and supporting her sister, while also engaging in her fight alongside the suffragettes.

The looming strike not only disrupts the women's lives but also binds them closer together in unexpected ways. Lovell expertly portrays the upheaval, turmoil, and triumphs these women experience, highlighting their resilience, unity, and unwavering spirit in the face of adversity.

"The Sewing Factory Girls" is a testament to the strength and resilience of women united in a common cause. Lovell's narrative captures the essence of historical events, portraying the challenges faced by these women and their unwavering determination to stand up for their rights. The novel beautifully intertwines personal struggles, friendships, and the fight for better working conditions, delivering an emotionally gripping and empowering story that resonates long after the final page is turned.

Through vivid storytelling and compelling characters, Posy Lovell crafts an engaging and thought-provoking tale that celebrates the courage and solidarity of women fighting for justice, making "The Sewing Factory Girls" an inspiring read for those drawn to historical fiction steeped in real-life stories of resilience and empowerment.

Thanks to NetGalley and Orion Publishing for an advance digital copy for my honest review.

Book Description

The Sewing Factory Girls is Posy Lovell's heartwarming and moving novel inspired by the brave, hardworking women who fought to improve working conditions at the Singer Factory in Clydebank, Scotland. It is an uplifting and emotional novel of friendship and courage, for readers who enjoy fiction based on real-life stories.

Like half of all the young women living in the Scottish town Clydebankin early 1911, Ellen works at the sewing machine factory. So does her big sister, Bridget, Bridget's fiancé Malcolm, and her new friend Sadie, who has come to work at the factory after the death of her father...

For Sadie, the factory is a way to make ends meet, but Ellen has sewing in her veins. She is even making Bridget's wedding dress on her beloved sewing machine. But after the excitement of the wedding dies down, everything changes. Ellen discovers that the work of the cabinet polishers - her job - is to be reorganised, and they will be doing more work for less pay.

Ellen feels betrayed - the sewing factory is her family and they've let her down. Sadie is more pragmatic. But the women aren't going to give in without a fight. They've been reading about strikes and they've got an idea - much to the disgust of manager Malcolm.

Meanwhile, Bridget, forced to choose between her husband and her sister, has made a new friend and is fighting her own battle, alongside the suffragettes.

The events of the strike will throw Ellen, Bridget and Sadie's lives into turmoil but also bring these women closer to each other than they could ever have imagined.

Book Review #SongBird of Hope Hill #Publisher ‏ : ‎ WaterBrook #Kim Vogel Sawyer #Christian Historical Fiction #Romance

 

                                                   MY THOUGHTS AND BOOK REVIEW

RATING 4.7/5

Title: The Songbird of Hope Hill

Author: Kim Vogel Sawyer

Genre: Historical Fiction/Inspirational

Kim Vogel Sawyer's "The Songbird of Hope Hill" is a heartwarming novel inspired by historical events that eloquently portrays the redemptive power of faith and love. Set against a backdrop of struggle and longing for a new beginning, the story follows Birdie Clarkson, a young woman whose life leads her to a house of ill repute, driven by the sheer need for survival.

When Reverend Isaiah Overly and his son, Ephraim, offer Birdie a chance for a better life and a fresh start, she seizes the opportunity, despite the resistance and fury of her former life's ties. Birdie's journey takes her to Hope Hill, a haven established by the Overlys, where women like her are provided with guidance and taught skills to break free from their pasts.

The narrative beautifully captures Birdie's reluctance and inner turmoil as she navigates her newfound sanctuary, eventually finding herself singing in Ephraim's choir at revival meetings. Despite her belief that she's unworthy of God's forgiveness, Reverend Overly's teachings about redemption and Ephraim's growing affection challenge Birdie's perceptions about her own salvation.

Sawyer skillfully weaves a tale of resilience, faith, and the transformative power of love. Through Birdie's journey, the novel delves into the universal themes of redemption and self-forgiveness, questioning whether one can truly believe in the possibility of divine redemption after enduring immense hardship.

The author's prose effortlessly draws readers into the emotional depths of the characters, allowing for a profound connection to Birdie's struggles and her path toward self-acceptance. The evolving relationship between Birdie and Ephraim serves as a poignant reminder of the unconditional love that transcends human flaws and past mistakes.

"The Songbird of Hope Hill" is a touching and uplifting narrative that inspires hope and belief in the possibility of redemption, illustrating how love, faith, and forgiveness can bring healing and renewal to even the most broken of souls. Sawyer's storytelling prowess shines brightly in this compelling tale, leaving readers moved and enriched by its powerful message of grace and second chances.

Thanks to Netgalley and WaterBrook Publishers for a complimentary digital copy for my honest review.

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ WaterBrook (April 9, 2024)
• Publication date ‏ : ‎ April 9, 2024

Book Review #Irish Eyes (The American Songbook Series 1) by Hope C. Tarr #Publisher ‏ : ‎ Lume Books Historical Romance & Saga # A Joffe Books Company

MY THOUGHTS AND BOOK REVIEW

Rating:5/5

Title: Irish Eyes (The American Songbook Series 1) by Hope C. Tarr

Genre: Historical Fiction Saga

Hope C. Tarr's "Irish Eyes" takes readers on a captivating journey from the breathtaking landscapes of the Aran Islands in 1898 to the bustling streets of New York City. Eighteen-year-old Rose O’Neill embarks on a life-altering journey, leaving behind her homeland and setting sail for New York with dreams of a promising future alongside Adam, an American soldier pledged to marry her.

However, upon her arrival at New York Harbor, Rose's world collapses as she finds herself abandoned, pregnant, and utterly alone. Despite these daunting circumstances, her resilience and determination shine through as she secures a job at a prestigious New York hotel, gradually carving out a new path for herself and her unborn child.

Tragedy strikes when a devastating fire razes the hotel, obliterating all Rose has painstakingly built. Yet, amidst the ashes, she encounters Joe Kavanaugh, a fireman whose unwavering devotion seeks to mend her shattered heart. Together, Rose and Joe navigate the streets of the Lower East Side, crafting a family and business that transcend the barriers of hardship.

Tarr masterfully weaves a tale of perseverance, resilience, and love, portraying Rose's journey from adversity to triumph. From the struggling neighborhoods to the opulence of New York's elite department stores, the story encompasses the highs and lows of Rose's life, presenting a compelling narrative that spans through the Great War and into the extravagant Roaring Twenties.

The author expertly captures the essence of an era marked by turmoil and transformation, vividly depicting the historical backdrop while interweaving the complexities of Rose's personal struggles, sacrifices, and aspirations. Rose's evolution from destitution to prosperity forms the backbone of this emotionally charged saga, resonating with readers through its poignant portrayal of loss, resilience, and the pursuit of happiness.

"Irish Eyes" is a mesmerizing historical saga that offers a window into a bygone era, encompassing themes of love, loss, and the indomitable human spirit. For enthusiasts of historical fiction, especially those drawn to tales of strong-willed protagonists navigating tumultuous times, Tarr's novel is a captivating and emotionally resonant read that transcends generations. This poignant narrative celebrates the resilience of the human heart amid the ever-shifting tides of fate, making it a must-read for fans of authors such as Fiona Valpy, Kristen Hannah, and Colleen McCullough.

Thanks to Netgalley for an advance digital copy for my honest review

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Lume Books Historical Romance & Saga, A Joffe Books Company (7 December 2023)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Print length ‏ : ‎ 441 pages