Book Review Christmas at the Cat Cafe by Jessica Redland #romance

Posted on January 24, 2026 by Suzanne Rogerson Author

Well, this book just wowed me. I have to say it was probably one of the best books I read in 2025, though technically I finished it at the beginning of 2006.

Blurb

It’s the most wonderful time of the year on Castle Street, and there’s a paw-some new business opening….

It had always been Tabby’s dream to work with cats and an inheritance from her beloved nanna has finally made that a reality. Idyllic Castle Street in Whitsborough Bay couldn’t be a better place for pastry chef Tabby to open a cat café with her boyfriend, Leon.

But when Leon leaves her in the lurch, the pressure mounts for Tabby. With Christmas fast approaching, she has to open the café on her own – a daunting prospect, especially when she’s been hiding her health issues from the ones she loves.

Faced with local resistance to the café – and somebody seemingly determined that she won’t succeed – Tabby will need her friends, family and cats more than ever to recover her broken Christmas spirit and pull together for a Christmas miracle.

Will the cat café bring the festive joy to Castle Street as Tabby had hoped or will it be a cat-astrophe? And can the magic of Christmas on Castle Street mend Tabby’s broken heart as well as her business?

My Mini Review

I loved every moment spent with Tabby and her trials with both her health, heartache and opening a very special cat cafe. The slow burn romance, friends to lovers trope and lots of furry friends made for the purrfect festive reading!

I really enjoyed the friendship and chemistry between Tabby and Tom, and loved their cute nicknames for each other; Tabby-cat and Tom-cat. The cats were all stars of the story as well.

Learning about Tabby’s chronic heath condition was interesting and felt completely believable and integral to the storyline. At no point did I find it too much, it made the story more interesting and made the relationship between Tom and Tabby even more special. I loved their connection. I shed tears quite a few times reading this book, Jessica is a master at getting to you feel the character’s emotions.

It really was a top read for me and I highly recommend it.

Check it out on Amazon.

Book Review A Mistletoe Miracle Emma Jackson #romance #romcom

Posted on January 21, 2026 by Suzanne Rogerson Author

I know it’s not Christmas time anymore, but I still enjoyed reading this festive story. Well, actually I loved this book and it led to some late nights staying up reading.

Blurb

A Mistletoe Miracle is the cosy festive romance from best-selling author, Emma Jackson, guaranteed to have readers feeling the joy amidst the chaos of Christmas, and the heady rush of falling in love.

Heartwarming and hilarious, get ready for a generous sprinkling of snowflakes, mayhem and kisses…

Nestled in the sleepy, snow-covered village of Holinton, the Everdene Hotel should be the ideal setting for a perfect Christmas… But for Beth, returning to her childhood home looking for a chance to heal in peace after a disastrous break-up, it’s more of a fiasco than a festive fantasy.

With her mum stranded in a blizzard and most of the hotel staff off sick, Beth is forced to take the reins, impress a mystery hotel reviewer, and figure out if her attraction to Nick, the very grumpy – and very gorgeous – pilot who is staying for the holidays, is the real deal or a rebound headed for disaster.

Between mince pie emergencies, deadly decorations, and two dozen disgruntled guests, Beth needs to find a miracle under the mistletoe if she’s going to survive this Christmas…

Perfect for fans of Laurie Gilmore, Heidi Swain and Tarah DeWitt.

Mini Review

I loved the story of Beth and Nick, from the way they literally bumped into each other, right up to their last moment on the page together.

Beth has to cope with running the hotel when her mother is stranded miles away because of the snow. She does an amazing job of juggling a dozen tasks at once and still somehow manages to find the time to fall for one of her grumpy guests.

The festive feel to the story lifts your spirits any time of year. And as the blurb states so perfectly, there are plenty of mishaps to keep everyone, especially Beth, on their toes.

I’m pleased to find out there will be a sequel following two of the other guests, though I shall miss the Everdene Hotel and all of Beth’s antics.

This is my first read by Emma Jackson and it won’t be my last!

5 star read!

Check it on Amazon here.

Audiobook tour wrap up for A Little Christmas Magic #shortstories

Posted on December 24, 2025 by Suzanne Rogerson Author

Happy Christmas Eve everyone!

Yesterday was the last day of the Audiobook tour run by Love Book Tours. It’s been great to read the reviews and pick out little snippets to share here. I’ve loved seeing how my stories have resonated with people and how reviewers have picked different favourites for their own reasons. With a book of 8 stories, it shows me that I’m doing something right!

Book A Holic 17 “I loved the different themes within this collection – although all festive – each one showed what the festive period really means to different people in different situations – reminding us to think of others at this time of year too.”

caits reading nook “I enjoyed the hopeful themes of each of these stories and how they feature multiple generations.”

amornia carlton “This was an incredibly beautiful listen for the holiday season! The title is absolutely perfect and fitting. The collection of short stories really is an examination of different kinds of ways that Christmas – or life in general, but during the holiday – can be magical.”

East Yorkshire bookworm “The audiobook contained stories of love, family, hope and reunions. I think my favourite was Poppy’s Christmas Wish.”

Pixies book blog “The voice actor if these stories really pulled you in, a very soothing voice. It caught me hookline and sinker!”

bookwormwhitlock86 “…a beautiful selection of fun, magical, festive and unique short stories perfect for Christmas.”

For the last time this year I get to share the blurb for A Little Christmas Magic.

From a much-loved family pet that goes missing to a neighbour in need.
Chance meetings and the kindness of strangers.
Overcoming trauma to help others and being prepared to make sacrifices.
A father rushing to get home to his kids in time for Christmas.

Dive into a short and sweet story to get you in the festive spirit.

Eight Stories

Poppy’s Christmas Wish
Last Minute Dash
Driving Home for Christmas
The Honeymoon Period
A Christmas Toast
The Last Train Home
The Wrong Post
Taking Care of Belle

Available as audiobook, ebook, paperback and hardback on Amazon.

If you’re struggling on Christmas Eve, why not stick on the audiobook and let Colette’s soothing voice help you through your preparations.

Have a good one, everyone.

Check out my socials on Linktree

Review catch up for A Little Christmas Magic and the #Audiobook tour

Posted on December 20, 2025 by Suzanne Rogerson Author

I’ve been so busy at work with the end of the year preparations, but I’m finally able to share the latest review snippets of the audiobook – A Little Christmas Magic;

Simplyburiedinbooks says “It’s filled with emotion and empathy, and each story feels relatable and endearing…”

Sherleysreadingcorner “𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑳𝒂𝒔𝒕 𝑻𝒓𝒂𝒊𝒏 𝑯𝒐𝒎𝒆 was my absolute favorite of the eight short stories. Elliot and Athena’s story was the sweetest. I really hope they get a full-length novel someday. Their love story would make the best romance read.”

Piggindani_reads shared a mini review of each story and finished with “Overall rating ~ 4.6 rounded up to 5 because it was a wonderful experience and the narration was perfect.”

Melisbookreviews “…cozy Christmas short stories that are perfect for the season to read, or in my case listen to, with a cup of steaming hot chocolate.”

livinginmyownprivateworldwithbooks “The narrators were perfect for the stories as they added depth to the characters, really brought the different personalities of the people featured throughout all the stories and made me emotional as I listened, even laughing out loud at some points and shredding tears at another. Overall, it was a wonderful mix of magical Christmas moments, and I would recommend it to everyone.

Cypruscornerreads “All the stories show warmth and kindness, but some also grief and other difficult issues, but all are written sensitively and show the very best of human nature. Definitely one to listen to while preparing for Christmas time.”

jrw1904 – Booky Charm “…I have to say, this collection of stories couldn’t have a better name! I’ve had my faith in Christmas restored as each story is a like a big hug followed by a warm mince pie.”

Dave Chats Books shared some really great feedback about the narrator. “Narrator Colette Davis-Kerwin delivers a beautifully measured performance that enhances the charm of the story and brings the book to life. Her narration is expressive, and warm, giving each character a distinct voice while maintaining a comforting, storybook tone and it’s this that gives each story it’s unique character and keeps you listening throughout. In my personal opinion the perfect choice for narrator of this book.”

Dave also says “You can’t help but smile as you’re listening to this and that smile will stay long after you finish, if you need an injection of Christmas spirit then this audiobook is the injection you need.”

There are some great graphics shared with these reviews on Instagram as well, so it’s worth clicking the link and checking them out.

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My thoughts – I knew Colette was the perfect narrator right from the first sentence of her audition. I’m really pleased she agreed to work with me on this project.

These lovely reviews really help me remember why I do this crazy thing called writing and sink so much of my time, heart and soul into it!

I’m still catching up with reviews, so I’ll be back soon!

A Little Christmas Magic

Audio sample for A Little Christmas Magic

A Little Christmas Magic final stops on the #audiobook blog blitz

Posted on December 14, 2025 by Suzanne Rogerson Author

Happy Sunday. I hope you’re feeling festive!

I’m back with the last of the reviews from my blog blitz tour for A Little Christmas Magic.

Yesterday it was great to see the reviews coming in and to hear how much reviewers are enjoying the audiobook while they’re getting ready for Christmas or having a well earned break from preparations.

Here are the latest review snippets I have to share.

“The narrator truly brought the stories alive, filling them with emotion.” Plumbobmummy

“…Colette Davies-Kerwin, was wonderful. The recording was clear, read well and I didn’t want this book to end to be honest. …Over all, this book was fantastic. It has me completely feeling the Christmas cheer.” Novel Kicks

“The audio narration by Colette Davies-Kerwin brings an added layer of charm and cosiness, making this collection a joy to listen to on wintry evenings.” My books and crafts

“This is a cute set of 8 short stories that total less than 3 hours listening time with a focus on family, friends, love and peace and goodwill. I think my fav was the Last Minute Dash but they’re all great for listening to while you’re wrapping gifts or any of the other millions of holiday chores you have to accomplish in the next few days.” The loppy knot on instagram

I hope you’ve enjoyed these little snippets and have had a chance to check out the full reviews on the blogs and Instagram. Thanks to Rachel’s Random Resources for hosting this Blog Blitz.

If you want to hear a sample for yourself, click this link – Audio sample for A Little Christmas Magic.

And if you want to start feeling Christmassy, you can pick up both books in series in ebook, paperback, audiobook and hardback. They’d make a great Christmas present or stocking filler for the readers in your life.

Winter Warmers Collection

Thanks for joining in the blog blitz. I’ll be back in a few days with more.

You can check our my socials here Linktree.

#Audiobook Blog Blitz for A Little Christmas Magic #christmasstories

Posted on December 13, 2025 by Suzanne Rogerson Author

Today is the day where I get to share the audio version of my book with some lovely reviewers and you. This tour has been hosted by Rachel’s Random Resources.

Part of the Winter Warmers Series, A Little Christmas Magic is a heart-warming collection of eight stories with a focus on family, friendship, love and goodwill.

Here are some quotes from reviewers…

“Guaranteed to give you all the fuzzies and feels…” Stacywh_17 on Instagram

“This is a lovely collection of short stories, full of festive cheer and a healthy dollop of human kindness.” Sarah K Reads on Instagram

“If you are looking for a lovely, quick, uplifting read, pick up this anthology, A Little Christmas Magic.” Carla Loves to Read

“In short: festive treats” Pam Robertson Books, Life and everything

“Each story brings out a meaning of Christmas and a listener will definitely choose a favorite for their individual preference! My favorite was one of the shorter stories: Last Minute Dash. It just spoke to me more than the others. It shows the kindness of a stranger while also sharing in the joy of Christmas and memories of childhood.” Jessica at Jessica’s Reading Room

“I really like the narrator, Colette Davies Kerwin. She was really animated in the stories and easy to like. The stories are written exceedingly well. The author Suzanna Rogerson has written a beautiful story that’s full of magic and heartwarming for Christmas. If you love Christmas books, this is for you. 5 stars!” Tea leaves and book leaves

I’m looking forward to sharing some more review snippets later on.

I’ve been trying to embed a sample of the audiobook into this post, but for some reason wordpress isn’t letting me. (huge sigh!)

So, if you’d like to read or listen to a sample, use this link to check out the Winter Warmers Series on Amazon.

Book review A Place in the Sun by Jo Thomas #romance #netgalley

Posted on November 14, 2025 by Suzanne Rogerson Author

My Review

I loved this book, just as I have loved every one of Jo Thomas’ books.
It was a beautiful story of second chances at love, and at times it was very emotional.
I loved Thea and her children, and of course, Giovanni, who comes to their rescue as soon as they arrive in town. There are some real characters, and great backstory to unravel both amongst the townspeople and for Thea and her young family. Plus, it has a renovation theme, which I always love. Everything about this book had me hooked. I’d love another story set in the same town in Tuscany.
In fact, writing this review makes me want to read the book all over again!

It’s never too late to find where you belong…

Thea knew the holiday house her late husband Marco bought in Tuscany wasn’t pristine. But when she relocates to Italy for the summer with her children, she’s shocked by how much work Casa Luna needs. And she only has six weeks to fix it up ready to sell! Her only option is to ask the tight-knit Italian community for help.

In return, Thea and her children become involved in the community kitchen, working alongside handsome chef Giovanni and three very competitive nonnas. Gradually, Thea begins to open up to the people around her for the first time in a long while. But just as she’s beginning to wonder whether this small Tuscan town could become a new place to call home, a surprise visitor turns everything on its head . . .

Check it out on the Amazon book page.

Book Review Over the Sea to Skye by Sue Moorcroft #Netgalley #romance

Posted on November 12, 2025 by Suzanne Rogerson Author

My Review

This is the third book in the Skye sisters trilogy. I’ve enjoyed every one of the Skye sisters’ books equally, and I don’t think I can pick a favourite.
What I have loved is being able to follow each sister and still keep in touch with their siblings. Valentina’s story is just as engrossing as her siblings, and in some ways more emotional as she has a young son and broken marriage to juggle whilst falling in love. Xander has his own issues, but he is the perfect match for Valentina – if only life, family and location issues didn’t get in the way for both of them. This was a lovely end to the trilogy, and I highly recommend the series – just as I recommend every one of Sue Moorcroft’s books.

One summer on a beautiful island could change everything…

Valentina Taylor’s life has been upended. With her marriage over, and unsure of what her future holds, she heads to the Isle of Skye for the summer with her young son, Barnaby.

But the journey there sets her on a new path, when she meets Xander Courage on the train – a charming American, running from problems of his own. After sparks fly, they go their separate ways. But on this small island, they’re never far from one another…

Skye offers Valentina the refuge she needs as she whiles away the long summer days at her beachside cottage, enjoying visits from her sisters, Thea and Ezzie. But when bad news from home throws her Scottish idyll into turmoil, Valentina finds herself pulled away from the place – and people – that she loves.

Valentina knows she must confront her heart’s desires – but can she let go of the past and embrace the future she deserves?

Here’s and link to the Amazon book page

Book Review A Little Cottage by the Cornish Sea by Nancy Barone #netgalley #romance

Posted on November 10, 2025 by Suzanne Rogerson Author

My Review

Wow, the start of this book throws you straight in the deep end, and it doesn’t stop as Kate’s life is thrown upside down. I couldn’t stop reading, hoping desperately that Kate would get her happy ever after. The storyline keeps you guessing as she tries to settle into a new community without giving away her past. I loved how everyone came to help her – the sense of community in Starry Cove is strong and I loved the mystery around Piers her love interest. It was a story I would read again and recommend to any romance reader.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for my ARC copy.

Life doesn’t always go to plan . . .

After a messy breakup and a nightmare boss, Kate swaps the chaos of London for the calm of Starry Cove-the charming seaside village she loved as a child. She arrives hoping for peace and a fresh start. But life has other plans: Kate soon discovers she’s going to be a mother.

As she navigates small-town life (and morning sickness), Kate finds friendship in the ‘coastal girls’-a warm, welcoming group who help her land a job with Piers, the reclusive owner of the local manor. He’s guarded, grumpy and impossible to read… but there’s more to him than meets the eye.

As feelings grow and secrets slowly come to light, Kate must decide if she’s ready to open her heart again-and whether Starry Cove could be the home she’s been searching for all along.

Check out the Amazon book page

Book review Bella’s Countryside Christmas by Claire Huston #romance #RespectRomFic @ClaraVal

Posted on December 24, 2024 by Suzanne Rogerson Author

I loved Bella and Jack’s story, from the moment they meet over a falling Christmas tree in a church, right up to the last page. It was a very entertaining read for any time of year.

Bella was a great character to follow. She has a big heart and puts family above everything else. This causes a few issues in her life, the biggest losing touch with Jack after a magical few hours together. I was desperate to read on to see if the couple would get their happy ever after.

I enjoyed being back at Halleybrook, and getting little glimpses into characters lives from the previous books in the series. This can be read as a standalone without an issues, though I highly recommend all the books, whichever order you read them. Oh, and I just found out last night that Claire’s book ‘Clues to You’ won the book bloggers novel of the year 2024 competition. I loved that story and think you should definitely check out all of Claire Huston’s books.

Finally, the cover has a really festive feel.

Check it out on Amazon.

Blurb

Fleeing her heartache and horrendous job, Bella stumbles upon a December wedding in the beautiful village of Haileybrook and the spirit of the season moves her to act as a fake date to handsome stranger Jack.

Jack and Bella hit it off, but Bella has to leave in a hurry and their magical evening soon becomes nothing more than a blissful memory.

A year later, Bella is returning to Haileybrook, seeking a fresh start and a quieter life. With a new job close to her cosy cottage home, a peaceful Christmas is surely only days away.

But it’s not long before family surprises, small-town feuds and romantic drama disrupt Bella’s plans, and she has to wonder if being alone is what she really wants for Christmas …

This standalone festive romance is set in the village of Haileybrook. The Haileybrook stories can be read in any order.

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Happy Christmas everyone.

And happy reading!