Blog Tour ‘This Christmas in Paris’ by Sophie Claire #bookreview #tuesdaybookblog

Posted on December 5, 2023 by suzannerogersonfantasyauthor

I’m excited to be on the blog tour for This Christmas in Paris by Sophie Claire.

Blurb

What could be more magical than Christmas in Paris?

When Carys is offered the chance to run a little French café, she leaps at the chance to discover an exciting city where she can dream big.

Meanwhile, struggling journalist Mat is living in the City of Love – but he’s never found romance himself.

Then, a chance encounter changes everything, and it feels like the start of something wonderful. But Carys and Mat are both keeping secrets . . .

Can they open their hearts to one another – and maybe even find love, just in time for Christmas?

My review

I was drawn into the story from the first page and didn’t want to put the book down.

I liked first meeting Carys in Willowbrook, her small hometown with a tight-knit community. It’s quickly clear why she feels she must escape to find herself. She jumps in at the deep end and takes a job in Paris running the Red Cat Café while the owners have a family emergency. She might not be qualified but she does a great job of it, until a bad review knocks her confidence.

Away from the café, Carys meets Mat and forms an instant connection with him. They know nothing of each others lives, but over the course of a few months they regularly meet and begin to fall in love. But there are secrets between them, which could get in the way of a relationship.

I have to admit there were several times I wanted to stop reading and beg the characters to make different choices. However, I ended up reading on avidly to see the twists and turns in their relationship play out.

I loved all the scenes in the café as Carys does her best to increase custom and challenges the chef to be more experimental. The food descriptions are mouth-watering, but I especially loved the evening talent shows she organises and the mix of customers we meet along the way.

Carys and Mat are great leading characters and deserve to find happiness. You’ll have to read it for yourself to see if they do find love together, or if the secrets tear them apart.

Note – I love the added extras at the end of the book, especially the recipe for ‘Cake aux Olives’ which I hope to try making very soon.

Don’t forget to check out the other reviewers taking part in the tour.

Thanks to the publisher for the ARC copy and to the author for writing another brilliant festive read. FYI – this is my honest review.

#Bookreview Your Book Won’t Sell Itself by GJ Stevens #writingguide #indieauthor

Posted on October 17, 2023 by suzannerogersonfantasyauthor

I was lucky enough to get an ARC of this book before it was released in May 2023. Life has got in the way of me reading it until now, but that is no reflection on the quality of the advice on offer.

This book is packed full of information that will help you on your indie publishing journey. It’s a practical guide on what you can expect along the way, drawing on GJ Stevens experiences.

It’s the kind of book I wish I’d had when I first started out. And for those who have experience, there are still many things you can learn. It’s always interesting to see the world of indie publishing through another author’s eyes, and compare techniques.

I like how the author has discussed the different software he uses and professional services that are available to help you with the process of writing and self publishing. It’s great to know you are not alone and that you can draw on experts for certain areas that may not be your strong point.

The take away from this book is anyone can do it. Go on, go for it!

This is a how-to guide I highly recommend to new writers, and those like me that have done it before but may be looking for some tips to improve the process.

Here’s the blurb.

A helpful guide for authors, whether established or just starting out.

Despite writing and publishing eight novels, two novellas and an array of short stories over ten years, I still remember how daunting it was to start with a blank page.

This book is intended as a guide for anyone thinking about writing a book or those who have written a book but its sales are stalling. Presented in two sections, we’ll take a journey through the writing process before delving into strategies to get your book in front of reader’s eyeballs.

Covering a range of topics, including the basics of writing, editing, cover design, blurbs and publishing, I pass on the many tips and tricks I’ve learnt along my journey to get you started and help prevent you from making costly mistakes.

I’ll introduce everything you need to know to get your books selling, from building your community on social media, advertising and selling in person, all with an aim to fast-track your sales with my tried and tested methods.

Here’s the book links

Amazon

Goodreads

And if you want some more information, GJ Stevens writes a weekly blog about his writing and marketing efforts here.

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#Bookreview Summer at the Ice Cream Cafe Jo Thomas #netgalley #romance

Posted on April 4, 2023 by suzannerogersonfantasyauthor

The word heart-warming was made for this book. In fact it doesn’t do it justice!

And look at the sweet cover.

Here’s the blurb…

A dream home
Beca Valentino is ready to escape the city. When she sees the perfect house for sale in her hometown, it seems like fate. Is this her chance to build the foster family she dreams of, on the beautiful Pembrokeshire coast?

A big mistake?
Returning home isn’t as easy as she thought, however. Her family’s beloved ice cream café is gone – turned into a soulless wine bar by her hateful ex-boyfriend. Reconnecting with her oldest friend, fisherman Griff, isn’t straightforward either. And when, instead of the children she expected to take in, two wary teenage boys appear on her doorstep, Beca fears she’s made a terrible mistake.

A recipe for change
But an old family recipe book is just the inspiration she needs. Soon, with a little help from friends old and new, Beca is selling mouth-watering homemade gelato from a pop-up café on the beach.

Then disaster strikes. Will the Valentino family legacy be lost forever? Or can Beca create a new recipe for happiness?

My Review

I can’t quite explain how much I loved this story. It was such an uplifting book to read, with so many moments that had me smiling and wiping away happy tears. Of course it had it’s sad moments too, and moments where I wanted to grab Beca and talk some sense into her.

The supporting cast were brilliant, especially the two teenage boys who came to stay. Watching them come out of their shells was a joy to read. And I love how Griff, Beca’s best friend from childhood, is always there to lend a hand, a shoulder to cry on, anything that Beca needs.

I think this has to be one of my top favourite Jo Thomas books. Give it a read, I’m sure you will love it too.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for my ARC copy. The book comes out on 27th April 2023, but you can pre-order it now on Amazon.

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Suzanne Rogerson – Author of epic fantasy, heart-warming romance and short stories

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Goodreads Challenge 2021 complete #fantasy #romance #netgalley

Posted on December 28, 2021 by suzannerogersonfantasyauthor

In 2021 I set a target of reading 20 books. I’m pleased to say at the time of writing this I have read 32 and will hopefully get the chance to finish another by the end of the year.

Since deciding to write a romance series I’ve been devouring romance books, especially those by my fav authors in the genre Sue Moorcroft, Jo Thomas and Jill Mansell. I’ve also discovered some new authors I can’t wait to read more of. I’ve read a lot of books through Netgalley this year, which is a wonderful way to read new books, but not great at clearing my TBR pile.

I’m disappointed to see that I haven’t read much fantasy, but those I have read have been brilliant.

I read a few non-fiction about writing and nature and I’ve tried a classic which I had to DNF because I just didn’t care at all about the characters. I might go back and try to read the end at some point.

So here is my list of books split into genres for easy reference and links to my reviews where available.

Fantasy

**Book Reviews;**
**The Sixth Fire**
**Raven Storm**
**Mageborn**

Romance

Sue Moorcroft

Book Reviews
**A Home in the Sun**
**Under the Italian Sun**
**Christmas Wishes**

Jo Thomas

**Book Reviews**
**Celebrations at the Chateau**
**Chasing the Italian Dream**
**Winter Beneath the Stars**

Jill Mansell

Lilac Mills

Book Reviews
Waste Not, Want Not in Applewell
**Tanglewood teashop**

Jenny Colegan

Other great authors

**Book Reviews**
**Elle’s A to Z of Love**
**A Bookshop Christmas**
**The Hotel ay Honeymoon Station**
**The River Between Us**
**Summer Kisses at Mermaid Point**

Writing Guide

Other Genres

**Book Reviews**
**Capital Action**
**Beginning of the End**

***

I’ll share my favourite books of 2021 in another post.

Have you beat your Goodreads challenge? Have you read any of these books? Let me know what you think.

***

Suzanne Rogerson – Author of epic fantasy and heart-warming romance

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The Sixth Fire – Children of Sinai II by Clarke Nixon #bookreview #fiction

Posted on December 14, 2021 by suzannerogersonfantasyauthor

Brilliant sequel!

Blurb

Hope Meadows is now a thriving community of survivors, following the world-changing revelations made by The Fathers. They live and work together to follow the guidelines set down for a kinder, more tolerant future, and their number is growing every day.

A Ute medicine woman inherits the double-edged gift of visions of her own, and, following their confusing messages, she leads her diminished group to Hope Meadows. It becomes clear that an ancestor’s prophecy, and those of the old tribes, is to become a reality… but they come with one final warning for mankind. Their ancestors, and those of the Hope Meadows founders, are inextricably linked, and their communities must now work together to preserve the world for which they have fought.

But old enemies are gradually building their plans against them, and all too soon they realise that the solution could prove as deadly as the threat.

My Review

I loved the start of the second book where we meet and follow some new characters and see events that happened in book 1 through their eyes and the awful impact it had on their lives. I loved Rose and Joe, but I think the star of the whole book for me was Nita the medicine woman who plays a huge part in the unfolding story of the survivors. I loved her scenes with Doron too.

It was also great to be back at Hope Meadows to see how the characters are coping with the realities of their new lives. I loved meeting up with the twins again and seeing how their powers are being honed for the good of the growing community of survivors. There are plenty of shocks and surprises in book two and plenty of new revelations. It was an entertaining read.

I have to say I was sad to finish The Sixth Fire. There is plenty of scope for further books in the series, so I really hope the authors are working on a sequel right now!

I was given a ARC copy. This review is an honest reflection of my thoughts on what is a very different and entertaining series.

Check it out on Amazon

Link to review of Book 1 Children of Sinai

***

Suzanne Rogerson – Author of epic fantasy and heart-warming romance

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Visions of Zarua is 5 today! #fantasy #epicfantasy #indiebooksbeseen

Posted on November 16, 2021 by suzannerogersonfantasyauthor

I have some news to share, but first…

Today I’m celebrating the 5th birthday of my debut fantasy, Visions of Zarua. It’s hard to believe I started my indie author journey so long ago!

It has been a time of ups and downs, and the best part has been getting so many positive reviews from happy readers. I don’t think you can beat that feeling.

I shared this back in January, but I do love to see how my book was brought to life. Why not give it a like on youtube and give Guy Barnes a boost – he did an epic job!

If you are interested in finding out more about Visions of Zarua, please follow these links.

Visions of Zarua – Amazon universal link

Audible and iTunes for the audiobook.

‘The author created such believable, magical worlds with wonderful characters that I didn’t want it to end. There’s everything in this story, good v evil, romance, crime, mystery, passion & fabulous magic, all put together in a wonderful writing style.’ Amazon reviewer

‘I completely recommend this, both for fans of the fantasy genre and for those of who haven’t read fantasy before. The story was great, the characters genuine and likable, and the worldbuilding fantastic.’ Amazon reviewer

This is the perfect time to share some news – there will soon be a new short story published in the world of Paltria featuring characters from Visions of Zarua! It’s part of a project I’ve been working on, lead in stories to introduce new readers to my fantasy stories and also for fans that want to read about their favourite characters. More news will follow soon…

For now you can help me celebrate the 5 year anniversary by sharing this post, writing a review if you’ve read it, or just say hi. I love to interact will fans, readers and bloggers.

Suzanne Rogerson – Author of epic fantasy and heart-warming romance

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Celebrations at the Chateau by Jo Thomas #romance #bookreview #netgalley

Posted on September 28, 2021 by suzannerogersonfantasyauthor

This was the another Netgalley ARC, which I was very excited to read as its by one of my favourite romance writers, Jo Thomas.

Blurb

When their grandfather dies, Fliss and her sisters are astonished to inherit a French chateau! Travelling to Normandy to visit the beautiful if faded house, they excitedly make plans over delicious crepes and local cider in the town nearby.

But they soon discover the chateau needs major work, a huge tax bill is due . . . and there’s a sitting tenant to whom they owe a monthly allowance.

Unable to sell but strapped for cash, Fliss determines to spruce up the elegant old rooms and open a B&B. But, why is Jacques, the local mayor, so hostile? How did Fliss’s grandfather come to own the place anyway? And will Jacques and Fliss be able to put their differences aside to save the chateau?

Inspired by Escape to the Chateau, this cosy and uplifting novel to curl up with, from the author of Escape to the French Farmhouse and Finding Love at the Christmas Market.

My Review

I loved reading this story right from the start. Inheriting an old French Chateau is right up there on my wish list, but seeing as that is not going to happen I had to live the fantasy through Fliss and her sisters.

When the three sisters decide to turn the old, run down Chateau into a B&B before it bankrupts them, it doesn’t go as smoothly as they’d hoped. Much like the path to true love between Fliss and the broody mayor, Jacques. They are perfect for each other but ex’s and a difficult situation in the past threatens their happy ever after.

Fliss is a very capable heroine, but she still occasionally needs rescuing and the handsome farmer / mayor / next door neighbour, Jacques is never far away.

The supporting cast are great; from Fliss’ nephew Jason who comes to help restore the chateau and blossoms in France, to Clementine Jacques step-daughter, to the huge working horse Pegasus whose always sticking his head through the fences and causing havoc, and Cedrick the peacock whose sometimes turns up to delight the guests. I have to mention the sitting tenant too, the chatelaine. She holds the key to the mystery of how Fliss’ grandfather came to own the Chateau in the first place, if only she could overcome the events in the past to confide in Fliss.

At the heart of this novel is mystery, love and family relationships. And of course there’s plenty of Christmas magic and a New Year’s Eve wedding at the Chateau to look forward to. You can’t get much better than that.

***

Suzanne Rogerson – Author of epic fantasy and heart-warming romance

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#Bookreview The Hotel at Honeymoon Station by Tilly Tennant #romance #netgalley

Posted on June 22, 2021 by suzannerogersonfantasyauthor

Here’s my latest review of an enjoyable, light-hearted romance by Tilly Tennant. This author is new to me and I look forward to reading more of her books.

Blurb

Run away to the Dorset countryside, to the sleepy village of Honeymoon, where rose-adorned thatched cottages soak up the sunlight and Emma is risking everything for a brave new start on life and love…

When Emma’s useless fiancé tells her a lie she cannot forgive, she decides enough is enough. She leaves him, quits her dead-end job and travels hundreds of miles away to the ancient village of Honeymoon in the Dorset countryside, to help her friend Tia turn the old train station into a boutique hotel.

Tia has told Emma that it will be a project, but when Emma arrives in Honeymoon and sees a weed-choked crumbling ruin, her vision of an idyllic life in Dorset begins to disintegrate. But when she meets twinkly-eyed builder Aiden in the village shop, and sparks fly between them, she can’t help but feel that the stars have for once aligned.

As work begins on the hotel, Emma and Aiden grow closer, and on sun-dappled evening walks, he tells her the secrets of the village. But there are some villagers who wish that Emma had never arrived in Honeymoon… And when Emma is involved in a terrible accident on site, and then discovers what Aiden has been keeping from her, it feels like the universe is telling her to leave Honeymoon for good. What if she was wrong to say goodbye to all that was safe and familiar? Will she ever be able to find her happy-ever-after in Honeymoon?

My Review

This was a gentle and enjoyable romance, perfect to relax and unwind to.

The main character Emma has her personal issues and hang-ups, not to mention the useless boyfriend who I couldn’t wait for her to get rid of. When she finally comes to her senses, she makes the rash decision to sell up and buy a run down train station with an old school friend. With hopes to renovate and turn it into a hotel, things don’t go as planned, especially when the builders turn out to be two hunky brothers who are single.
Emma tries to stay level headed, but her sensible nature stands in the way of happiness.

There are plenty of trials in the renovation too, including opposition from locals and the weather stands in the way of finishing the project before the money runs out.
I enjoyed being along for the renovation ride and willed Emma to allow herself the chance to be happy.

It was a satisfying story and I wish I could go and spend a romantic weekend at The Hotel at Honeymoon Station!

Thanks to Netgalley for providing me with an ARC.

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Suzanne Rogerson – Author of epic fantasy and heart-warming romance

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Book Review: The Sentinel’s Alliance by Suzanne Rogerson #tuesdaybookblog #fantasy #bookreview

Posted on September 22, 2020 by suzannerogersonfantasyauthor

I’m excited to share this wonderful review of The Sentinel’s Alliance, the final book in Silent Sea Chronicles trilogy. Please take a look.

The Strawberry Post

Title: The Sentinel’s Alliance (Silent Sea Chronicles #3)
Author: Suzanne Rogerson
Publisher: Independently published
Genre: Fantasy
Book format: Paperback

Sweet Strawberries: Description: Can new alliances save the islands of the Silent Sea from the murderers stalking their shores?
As the island of Kalaya and its people recover from civil war, a new threat surfaces. Invaders from the island of Elkena hunt the seas, butchering those who possess magic. Their scar-faced captain seeks the Fire Mage who it has been foretold will kill him and Tei and her people are in his warpath.
Tei and a band of Kalayans travel to Stone Haven, the home of their new allies, planning to restore magic to the dead island. But the Stone Haven Council have abhorred magic since their people were massacred by Elkenan invaders twenty years before. Commander Farrell must persuade his people to accept magic again, but his plans expose…

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#Bookreview Escape to the French Farmhouse by Jo Thomas #romance #tuesdaybookblog

Posted on September 15, 2020 by suzannerogersonfantasyauthor

This is another great read from Jo Thomas. She is one of my favourite romance writers and her books never fails to make me feel emotional!

Blurb

Can Del find her recipe for happiness?

Del and her husband Ollie moved to a beautiful village in Provence for a fresh start after years of infertility struggles. But six weeks after they arrive, they’re packing the removal van once more. As Del watches the van leave for England, she suddenly realises exactly what will make her happier…a new life in France – without Ollie.

Now alone, all Del has is a crumbling farmhouse, a mortgage to pay and a few lavender plants. What on earth is she going to do? After discovering an old recipe book at the market run by the rather attractive Fabian, Del starts to bake. But can her new-found passion really help her let go of the past and lead to true happiness?

A heart-warming tale about reclaiming your life, set amongst the lavender fields of Provence. Perfect escapism from the author of Late Summer in the Vineyard and The Honey Farm on the Hill.

My review

The story starts as Del prepares to leave France with her husband but she realises their relationship is broken and she decides to stay on alone. It’s a very brave thing to do, especially where all her stuff is already on its way back to England!

Del is a strong character even if she doesn’t always see that about herself. I love being in her world, watching as she learns to trust herself and be self reliant.

The people in the nearby town make her feel welcome and she settles into her new life, finding friendship and possibly more in the process. She helps others, in particular a young mum along the way. These growing friendships really make the story something special.

The details of the farmhouse and the lavender are so immersive. I also love the details of the cooking. Del uses her love of baking to start providing for herself, incorporating the lavender from her farm into everything she cooks. Be warned, this book can make you hungry. Helpfully there are a few recipes at the back of the book, which is a nice little touch.

The chapters are very short and always draw you into the next. Many times I said to myself I’ll just read one more chapter only to find another half and hour had passed without me even realising.

If you like to be transported to beautiful places and enjoy heart-warming and feel good stories, then give Escape to the French Farmhouse a try.

My rating – 5 lavender scented stars!

Also see my reviews of Late Summer in the Vineyards and The Olive Grove.

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Suzanne Rogerson – Author of epic and heroic fantasy

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