Book Review - The First Date by Zara Stoneley

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Amazon UK

Title: The First Date

Author: Zara Stoneley

Format reviewed: Ebook

Source: Netgalley

Publisher: One More Chapter

Publication Date: 24th April 2020

Rating: 5 Stars

Right place.
Right time.
Wrong guy …

‘The novel equivalent of binge watching a tv series…"just one more chapter, who cares if it's 2am!" It's exactly the sort of novel you need with so much chaos in the world’ Sarah, Reader review

After breaking up with her childhood sweetheart, clueless dater Rosie has found herself in a boyfriend-drought. So when she finally swipes right on a guy who seems interested, she can’t wait to meet up in person.

Until she’s left standing alone. In a bar. Stood up.

Enter Noah. Confident, funny … and a serial first dater. Offering to give Rosie a crash course in seduction, this could be just what she needs. Until her matchmaker turns out to be the best date she’s ever had – and Rosie wonders if she wants the fake dates to be the real ones after all …

A hilarious, heartwarming romantic comedy about what happens when the wrong guy turns up at the right time, perfect for fans of Sophie Kinsella and Mhairi McFarlane.

From the moment of Rosie's first conversation with Noah, I knew this book was going to be a winner.  Throughout their dialogue, verging in banter, is quick witted, amusing, and just really fun to read. 

But yet Rosie and Noah aren't dating, they have only just met, and Noah in fact decided he will help Rosie on her quest to get her first, first date since she was a child sorted and give her the confidence to deal with it. They meet in a bar, just after Rosie is stood up from her Tinder date! 

However Noah does have one flaw - he reminds Rosie far too much of her father, of which well lets say she has daddy issues to be resolved.  And so what is obvious to the reader, is fought against internally by Rosie, as she tries to reason with herself! 

I loved all of Noah's "lessons" for Rosie, in seduction, the scene in the lingerie shop is hilarious, oh there is a huge great dane that provides some amusement, there are friends and family to be met, and above all this book is just a whole lot of fun. 

In fact this is exactly the sort of book for these troubled times, that will lift your spirits, perhaps remind you of your own first dates, and take you to happier times for a while.  And who doesn't want a bit of fun, even between the pages of a book, while the world is such a doom and gloom place. 

Another thoroughly entertaining story from Zara Stoneley, I can't wait for her next book. 

Thank you to One More Chapter and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily, 

Book Review - Four Christmases and a Secret by Zara Stoneley

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Amazon UK

Title: Four Christmases and a Secret

Author: Zara Stoneley

Format reviewed: Ebook

Source: Netgalley

Publisher: One More Chapter

Publication Date: 27th September 2019

Rating: 4 Stars

It’s the most wonderful time of the year…

Except for Daisy, Christmas means another of Uncle T’s dreaded Christmas parties, complete with Christmas jumper and flashing antlers. And Oliver Cartwright. Gorgeous Oliver Cartwright. Who she hates.

Every year Daisy has to face insufferable Ollie and hear all about how BRILLIANT he is. Whereas Daisy has no job, no man and no idea how to fix things.

This Christmas, however, Daisy is determined things will be different. There will be no snogging Ollie under the mistletoe like when they were teenagers. No, this year she’ll show Ollie that she’s a Responsible Adult too.

But as the champagne corks pop, and the tinsel sparkles, Uncle T has news of his own to share… and it could change Daisy's life forever…

Bridget Jones meets the Hallmark Channel in an irresistible romantic comedy you won’t want to miss this Christmas.

I could so easily see this working on a big screen, its such a heartwarming story, and I didn't have more than half an inkling as to the big secret. 

The story does indeed feature four Christmases , but yet I feel this could easily be read at any time of year, as not only do we feature Christmas, it also takes in the rest of the year too, and with the exception of the mega Christmas party each year, I didn't overly feel festive for the rest of the story. 

I really enjoyed seeing how Daisy develops as a person over the course of the book.  I loved the rivalry between her mum and Oliver's mum with their continual one up-manship.   And Stanley is a lovely character too, and is instrumental in Daisy slowly growing in confidence. 

Easily my favourite character was Uncle Terence, with his wonderful bookshop, ability to throw a marvellous party, all of his advice for Daisy, and well thinks I can't talk about, as they would be spoilers.   

There are two potential love interests in this book for Daisy, the one who has been under her nose the time, and a new colleague who I really didn't take to.  

Daisy although she doesn't realise it is just such a big hearted character, and loves book and animals, which makes her a fabulous person in my eyes.  She always tries to help others, while putting herself down. 

Although not my favourite book by the author, its still another excellent story and one worth reading (or maybe watching if my wish comes true and it gets turned into a film!).   

A really enjoyable novel, with some great characters. 

Thank you Netgalley and One More Chapter for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily. 

Book Review - Bridesmaids by Zara Stoneley

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Amazon UK

Title: Bridesmaids

Author: Zara Stoneley

Format reviewed: Ebook

Source: Netgalley

Publisher: Harper Impulse

Publication Date: 26th April 2019

Rating: 5 Stars

Meet Rachel, the beautiful bride with BIG plans for the perfect day! The venue is a castle and the dress is designer.  It’s just a shame her husband is a rat.

Maddie and Sally have only one thing in common – they both love the same man!

Beth is a newly single mum with a mystery baby daddy.  Surely the father isn’t someone the girls all know?

And then there’s Jane, the glue holding them all together, but being dumped doesn’t make her the happiest bridesmaid…especially with gorgeous flatmate Freddie complicating things.

Will the bride say, ‘I Do!’?  Or will her bridesmaids save the day…and find love along the way?    

The most hilarious, feel-good rom com of the year!

Completely hilarious and if you love characters that put 2 and 2 together and come up with fifty, then you will love Jane. 

The whole book is told from Jane's point of view, and after being dumped on her hen night, isn't that keen on weddings any more, so its rather tricky when best friend Rachel announces she is getting married.  Even more awkward when Jane knows a secret about groom Michael and has no idea what to do with it. 

Then there are the other bridesmaids /  close friends who Jane hasn't seen in years but Rachel keeps up with.   There is Sally who married Maddie's ex-boyfriend Jack, and well Maddie isn't as ok with it as everyone seems to think. 

Finally there is Beth, who is single mum to baby Joe, responsible for an amusingly disgusting instance in the dress shop, and Beth is definitely hiding things too, like just who the father is. 

Set in three parts, where we meed the bridesmaids,  the hen party and then the wedding, this is one of the most amusing books I've read this year.  If there are cross purposes to be had, then Jane is your woman. 

And in amongst Jane trying to make sure the wedding goes without a hitch, despite her misgivings and tension in the bridesmaids ranks - she is just coming to the realisation of what she feels for a couple of key men from her life. 

Bridesmaids has a wonderful feel to it, and I could easily see it as a film (although in some respects it feels a bit like elements from the film of the same name, but completely and utterly different too).  Or maybe it should be a sitcom, there is definitely enough humour, romance and conflict in this for a TV series! 

Another incredibly enjoyable and entertaining book from one of my favourite authors, Bridesmaids is triumph! 

Thank you to Harper Impulse and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily. 

Book Review - No One Cancels Christmas by Zara Stoneley

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Amazon UK

Title: No One Cancels Christmas

Author: Zara Stoneley

Format reviewed: Ebook

Source: Netgalley

Publisher: Harper Impulse

Publication Date: 19th October 2018

Rating: 5 Stars

It’s the most magical time of the year, and for travel agent Sarah it’s also the busiest! But this year one man threatens to ruin Christmas for Sarah’s customers – Mr Grinch, Will Armstrong.

The Shooting Star Mountain resort is a magical place, and Sarah has fond memories of Christmas here as a little girl – visits to Father Christmas, husky rides in the snow and hot chocolate by a roaring fire. But as the resorts new owner, Will refuses to play snowball or to deck the halls with anything remotely resembling tinsel!

With customers complaining their Christmas is ruined, Sarah decides it’s up to her to convince Scroogey Will just how magical Christmas can be….

But getting Will into the Christmas spirit is hopeless – he is Bah Humbug personified! But as Sarah gets to know him better, she realises that underneath all the gloom is a man struggling with a pain of his own.

With the big day approaching, Sarah realises that the magic and sparkle can wait. This year, she’s going to spend Christmas day with someone special her very own Mr Scrooge…

This is a book that has something for everyone - winter landscapes, snowmobiles, a flirtatious man, a grumpy man, a mountain resort needing some Christmas cheer, a feisty woman who is determined to turn the resort around, a familiar face, and just a fabulous story set in the run up to Christmas. 

So the winter landscapes, well the book is predominately set in Canada at the Shooting Star Mountain resort. There is snow as far as the eye can see, I definitely felt cold reading this, but has beautiful scenery too and I could really picture it all. 

Turns out snowmobiles to play quite a big part in the story, and its due to one of them that the circumstances of one of my favourite scenes in the book occurred.  Plus the descriptions of the speed, and how it feels to ride one were really amusing. Also really enjoyed the scenes featuring the dog sledding, and Sarah learning to snowboard! 

The flirtatious man is younger brother Ed and one of the brothers running the resort. He is though rather work shy and is only happy when flirting with women, or out on the slops.  Watching him attempt to get out of doing that resembles hard work is really amusing. 

Whereas the grumpy, scrooge like man is Will, the older brother and he has his reasons for acting like he does.  We first come across him responding to some of Sarah's rather stroppy emails and you get a glimpse of his real personality shining through. 

I loved every moment spent at the Shooting Star Mountain Resort and enjoyed seeing its transformation as Sarah, our feisty female tries to boss the brothers about and bring it back to its former glory. Sarah had spent one rather memorable Christmas there as a child and is determined that the place can be as special as it once was. 

If you are  fan of Zara Stoneley then like me you may be please to see a familiar face in Sam, who works alongside Sarah. Sam was the lead in A Wedding Date, so it was lovely to catch up with her.  

From the first few pages this is a book that had me smiling, and racing through the pages in pure enjoyment.  Certainly one of the authors best books and one that I thoroughly enjoyed. 

Thank you to Netgalley and Harper Impulse for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily. 

Book Review - The Wedding Date by Zara Stoneley

Amazon UK

Title: The Wedding Date

Author: Zara Stoneley

Format reviewed: Ebook

Source: Netgalley

Publisher: Harper Impulse

Publication Date: 20th April 2018

Rating: 4 Stars

One ex.
One wedding.
One little white lie.

When Samantha Jenkins is asked to be the maid of honour at her best friend’s wedding, she couldn’t be happier. There are just three problems…

1) Sam’s ex-boyfriend, Liam, will be the best man.
2) His new girlfriend is pregnant.
3) Sam might have told people she has a new man when she doesn’t (see points 1 and 2 above)

So, Sam does the only sensible thing available to her… and hires a professional to do the job.

Actor Jake Porter is perfect for the role: single, gorgeous and cheap! Sam is certain it’s the perfect solution: no strings, no heartbreak and hopefully no chance of being found out.

But spending a week in the Scottish Highlands with Jake is harder than she imagined. He is the perfect boyfriend, charming, sexy and the hottest thing in a kilt since Outlander! And his dog Harry is quite possibly the cutest things Sam has ever seen!

As the wedding draws closer, Jake plays his part to perfection and everyone believes he is madly in love with Sam. The problem is, Sam’s not sure if Jake is acting anymore…

This is a lovely and enjoyable story,  that I think would make a great film. However that may be because I years ago watched a film with the same basic premise and in fact same title, ao although I enjoyed the journey and writing, I wasn't overly surprised about the overall story arc. 

Ok there are differences between the film and the book as you would hope being completely different but there was that sense of familiarity with the thoughts that Sam was having throughout. 

Putting all that to one side, this is a book filled with amusing moments, and I think I fell in love with Jake almost instantly. I do love a book with eye candy, and he is more than just a gorgeous actor willing to be a fake boyfriend. 

He is hiding the true reason he is willing to go along with the the charade of being Sam's boyfriend and a date for a week long wedding in Scotland.  I loved how he slipped into the role perfectly and seemed a natural at the various activities on offer, while also absolutely hating on sight Sam's ex-boyfriend who is the best man. 

I really enjoyed the character of Sam too and completely understood her need to go to these lengths, showing just what a good friend she is.   

And of course this wouldn't be a Zara Stoneley book if there weren't horses and dogs involved somewhere, and the two dogs featured are fabulous.  Tank is exactly that and Harry is a larger than life dog who may be very keen on human food, despite the regime he may be apparently on.   The scene involving horses too was great 

Despite my initial thoughts this is easily a book I would recommend to others, it really has everything I look for in a romantic comedy - romance, comedy, gorgeous man, some fabulous scenes, an ex worth hating, funny parents and animals.  This is pure enjoyable escapism and I did really enjoy the whole book. 

Thank you to Netgalley and Harper Impulse for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily. 

Book Review - Blackberry Picking at Jasmine Cottage by Zara Stoneley

Amazon UK

Title: Blackberry Picking at Jasmine Cottage

Author: Zara Stoneley

Format reviewed: Ebook

Source: Netgalley

Publisher: Harper Impulse

Publication Date: 22nd September 2017

Rating: 5 Stars

Return to the charming little village of Langtry Meadows and cosy up by the fire with this gorgeous romance that will warm your heart…

As the lazy days of summer ebb away and the hedgerows fill with rich, plump blackberries, Lucy Jacobs couldn't be happier. She's feeling more and more at home in the small village of Langtry Meadows and has fallen in love with idyllic Jasmine cottage – not to mention gorgeous vet Charlie.

But just as Lucy is thinking about putting down roots like the blackberries that grow in her garden, Charlie's ex returns and threatens to put a thorn in their perfect life…

What a wonderful return to Langtry Meadows, home to Lucy, Charlie, Maisie, plus all the various members in the small village, such as Elsie, Jim, Sally, Jill and Matt who you may remember if you read the first book. 

This was such a calming book to read, although saying that it wasn’t without its drama too. There were whole sections where I couldn’t be parted from the story as I need to know who it would all turn out. 
I was also glad to see that it felt like some of the storylines that were introduced in the first book, were not only continued but resolved to a certain extent. Always a nice feeling to get some closure on longer running threads. 

This could though be read as a standalone, as you don’t need to have read book 1 to fully appreciate this book, however I know that I felt right at home back in Langtry Meadows within pages of starting Blackberry Picking at Jasmine Cottage just from being in a familiar setting again. It almost certainly enhanced my enjoyment having read both books. 

There is plenty of story to keep you going, and it’s reasonably well paced, and takes in the Autumn term at Lucy’s school. We get to hear from the many young children she teaches which all have great things to say, plus there are animal antics all over this book. 

What struck me most was Maisie, she is 6 years old and is living with her father Charlie but clearly missing her mum. Charlie and Lucy’s relationship is at threat from Charlie’s soon to be ex-wife, and Maisie just is struggling. Later in the book Jim comes out with some absolute nuggets of wisdom, that I feel anyone in the same or similar situation should take not of. 

I loved Blackberry Picking at Jasmine Cottage, with its warm cosy feel from the gorgeous cover, to the title, to the whole feel of the village. It’s a close knit community with an array of characters that each have distinct personalities and it was Elsie who was a standout for me. She is perhaps one of the oldest residents of the village, and has kept a huge secret over the years. Now although I worked it out partway through the book, it was still a touching moment when it was revealed. 

A thoroughly enjoyable book that I am delighted to have read. 

Thank you to Harper Impulse and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily. 

Book Review - Summer with the Country Village Vet by Zara Stoneley - Rachel Reads Randomly Book #63

Amazon UK

Title: Summer with the Country Village Vet

Author: Zara Stoneley

Format reviewed: Ebook

Source: Netgalley

Publisher: Harper Impulse

Publication Date: 2nd June 2017

Rating: 4 Stars

Fall in love with a brand new cosy romance series from bestselling author Zara Stoneley

When Lucy Jacobs is made redundant from her inner-city teaching job she fears her career is over. Teaching is all Lucy knows and she's determined to get back in the classroom as fast as she can.

Except the only job on offer is at an idyllic village school in the middle of nowhere – Lucy's idea of hell. Where are the disadvantaged kids who need saving, where is the challenge?

But as Lucy finds herself welcomed into the warm-hearted community of Langtry Meadows, she begins to realise new challenges await – like frogs in the classroom, a rather difficult donkey, and a very brooding local vet…

Local boy Charlie Davenport has his own issues about living in the close-knit village of Langtry Meadows. His private life is already fuel for the well-meaning gossips and the very last thing he needs is to get close to the new school teacher…no matter how lovely she is.

But as summer days drift away Langtry Meadows weaves its magic, Charlie and Lucy both get the chance to turn over a new leaf and start anew…maybe with each other?

A fun, romantic story to make you smile and long for your own country escape.

Idyllic country village setting - check
Gorgeous vet - check
Cute and funny animal antics - check
Two characters who you want to bang their heads together - check
Some adorable children - check
Woman in the village who seems to know everything while being slightly manipulative - check
Flirty dog owner that seems to be determined to embarrass her poor dog - check
Characters with complicated pasts - check

I think that pretty much would be the Summer with a Country Village Vet check list. The book contains all of that and a whole lot more, wrapped up in a stunning cover, and some lovely writing. 

Despite Lucy Jacobs being a school teacher, I found myself a bit surprised at how little I got to know the children in any of her classes. That being said there were a couple that spring to mind, and I loved seeing what random animals they would pull out of their pockets to show Miss Jacobs, and also what one of the kids "mums" says about everything! 

Charlie is the locum village vet, and seems to have a huge female fan club, but senses in Lucy a kindred spirit of people in Langry Meadows for the short haul before being able to escape again. Nether believe they are suited to village life, but are both trying to make the most of things. 

What I noticed and frustrated me a lot was Lucy and Charlie seemed to have a fair few conversations where what I thought they were saying was different to what they were saying, which was different to how each other was interpreting the conversation.  It is clear they may be attracted to each other, but the will they-won't they finally get their acts together just dragged on a bit for me. That being said they had their reasonings and I could completely understand various bits of reluctance. 

I loved Lucy's massive conversation with her mum, as she finally asks not be protected like she was a child to try and make sense of her own interpretation of her childhood which coloured her adult perspective on things. 

There are some absolutely fantastic animals in this book, from Gertie the Goose, to the horse that almost runs Lucy over, to Molly an adorable dog, to a pig that is running around looking like a drunk. Plenty of moments that will raise a smile and a giggle. 

Langtry Meadows is the sort of village I would love to visit, picturesque with plenty of just incredible people living there that just want the best for the village. I loved getting to know them and can't help but be excited with the groundwork that has been laid in this first book of Zara Stoneley's new Love in Langtry Meadows series. I am already looking forward to my return. 

Thank you to Netgalley and Harper Impulse for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily. 

Thank you to everyone that voted on the basis of a hunky vet, you won't be disappointed! So glad this book won last week, partly as its a review copy and partly as I had been looking forward to it since I did the cover reveal a few months back. So let's see how this week's vote will go! 

Back Catalogue Books - Q&A with Zara Stoneley - Giveaway

Back Catalogue Books is my new regular Saturday feature, focusing on books that are not the latest releases. There is going to be a mix of Q&As and also reviews, depending on what I have the space for. 

If you are an author wanting to take part in Back Catalogue Books then please do email on gilbster at gmail dot com and I'll whizz the questions over to you. 

I hope everyone enjoys this weekly look back at some of the slightly older books that are about but still great, going to aim to read books that have been out for at least 6 months, and that I eventually make a dent in my TBRs as a result of it!

Today I have the wonderful Zara Stoneley talking about her Back Catalogue, although personally I'm just looking forward to having the time to sit and start her new book!

1) Please tell me about your first book, and what started you writing in the first place

I’ve always loved books and have read and been writing stories for as long as I can remember. The first novel I submitted to a publisher was a James Bond style story when I was 12 years old. The very generous and lovely response from an editor encouraged me to try again. In my twenties though as my reading preferences changed I switched from writing thrillers to romance.

The first book that I had published was ‘Forfeit’, an erotic novel, in 2012. At that time I was writing romance that was just a little bit steamy (Jilly Cooper style), and then was persuaded to enter a competition. The prize was a publishing contract, and I needed to write a synopsis and the first three chapters of an erotic novel. There was less than two weeks until the closing date – and I’d never really read (let alone written) erotica, but I’m always up for a challenge! A month later I was offered a publishing contract.

2) How many books have you written and what are they?

I had two erotic novels published by Accent, and then two erotic romance novellas. I then self-published an erotic romance trilogy before being signed with HarperCollins. My first two books with them were erotic romances – ‘Summer of Surrender’ and ‘Love is a Four Letter Word’, and then, following a chat with my editor the Tippermere books were born (Stable Mates, Country Affairs and Country Rivals). These are a bit steamy, with lots of horses, dogs, men and lovely countryside, and a good dash of humour (you have to be able to laugh if you live in the countryside!). 

My editor was a genius to suggest I move in that direction as I was writing about everything I loved (she’s brilliant like that, knows me so well!). 

At the end of last year, ‘The Holiday Swap’ (a story about two friends who swap homes for the festive season – one lives a very trendy life in Barcelona, and the other lives in a cosy cottage in a country village) was published. As you might know my time is split between a village in Cheshire and Barcelona, so once again I could write about the places I know and love. 
I have the first of a new series of books coming out in June – the setting is a new village, Langtry Meadows, and it follows the lives of a vet (my dream job) and a teacher.

3) Which book are you most proud of writing?

That’s a tricky one! I was immensely proud of ‘Forfeit’ when it came out, as it was my first book. But my writing has developed and changed with each book, so I probably have to say the one I’ve just written!

4) Which book was your favourite to write?

Can I pick two? I loved writing ‘Country Rivals’ as it was great to include the bitchy, scheming Pandora – in a lot of my books most of the characters are lovely people, it was nice to write a baddy! ‘The Holiday Swap’ was also great fun as one of my favourite festive films is The Holiday and it was great to take that concept and create a new story.

5) Who are your favourite characters from your books and why?

I have to admit to totally loving Mick from ‘Stable Mates’ and ‘Country Affairs’, he really is my kind of guy – the quiet, deep, strong type who can as good as read your mind, plus he’s totally hot! I love my men tall, dark, slightly rugged, animal-loving, with warm hands and hearts. He’s also Irish and has a voice to die for. Hot men aside I love Lottie (from Tippermere) – she comes across initially as a bit disorganised, but with a heart of gold, but she really is much more than that – she’s determined and loyal, I’d love to have her as a friend.

6) If you could go back and change anything from any of your books, what would it be, and why?

I always half-hoped that Lottie and Mick would make a go of it (so did a lot of readers), but it wasn’t to be. I could quite easily go back and write a quite different story where they do end up together though – but who knows what the future holds for them? Mick has such passion buried inside him, I’d so love to see him with the right woman.

7) Which of your covers if your favourite and why?

That’s a difficult one – it would be easier to say which are my least favourite (but I’m not going to!). I’ve loved so many of them and thought they were the best – then been surprised with the cover for the next book. I think at the moment I have to say ‘The Holiday Swap’ as it’s a great, fun cover.

8) Have you ever thought about changing genres, if so what else would you like to write?

I would love to write a psychological thriller! After writing ‘Summer of Surrender’ I had lots of readers asking if I’d write a romantic suspense story. I’ve got a story bubbling away in the back of my mind – but it is quite shocking, with a lot more suspense than romance.

9) Looking forward can you let us know what you are working on next?

I’m working on a really lovely series about a gorgeous country vet, and a teacher who has her own reasons for living in the city and staying well away from village life – until she loses her job and has no choice. The title is ‘Summer with the Country Village Vet’, it’s available for pre-order now. I’m already working on the second book where the lovely vet, Charlie, has a huge dilemma to solve over his daughter (who he might not be the biological father of) – does he take a DNA test and risk losing everything, or go with his heart and instincts? I’m not going to say any more!

10) I dare not ask for a favourite author, but is there any author’s back catalogue you admire and why?

I was totally astounded when I met the lovely Katherine Garbera to discover she’d written 65 books for Harlequin – plus many more for other publishers. She is such a lovely, generous, unassuming person. I am in awe!! I have a soft spot for Dick Francis – a great backlist, and you always know exactly what you’re going to get. I also admire Jilly Cooper’s back catalogue, she’s done such a brilliant job of developing her characters over the years.

11) Finally, is there anything else you would like to say about your back catalogue of books?

When I was first published I fully intended using a different pen-name for my non-erotic books as my current books are very different to the early ones. But, I hope the covers and titles make it clear exactly what type of story to expect.

Thank you so much Zara for answering my questions. I love all your covers and books, and had no idea you used to write erotic romances in a past life! 

Author Bio

Zara Stoneley was born in a small village in Staffordshire and wanted to be James Herriot when she grew up. After completing an IT degree, working as a consultant, running a dog grooming business, teaching, and working at a veterinary practice she decided she had more than enough material to write several books even if she would never qualify as a vet!

She lives in Cheshire with her family and a very bossy cat, and loves spending time in sunny Barcelona.

Zara is currently writing a new series, the first book ‘Summer with the Country Village Vet’ will be published by HarperCollins in June 2017 – look out for a hot vet and the most gorgeous country village ever!

You can find out more about Zara on her website www.ZaraStoneley.com.  She also spends far too much time on social media –  Twitter  Facebook   You can follow her travels in Barcelona and Cheshire on Instagram, and explore the inspiration behind her books on Pinterest.

Buy Links

 Summer of Surrender   ***   Love is a Four Letter Word

 Stable Mates   ***   Country Affairs    ***   Country Rivals

 The Holiday Swap    ***   Summer with the Country Village Vet

Giveaway to Win Country Rivals by Zara Stoneley (Europe Only)

I just happen to have a spare copy of Country Rivals which I am happy to giveaway to one lucky winner. 

Giveaway open to Europe Only, all options are voluntary, but please do what they ask, as I will be verifying the winner. Giveaway closes 23:59 20/05/2017. Winner will be announced on twitter and emailed, and they will need to reply within 7 days, or forfeit the prize, and I will re-draw for a new winner.  Good luck everyone.

Win Country Rivals by Zara Stoneley (Europe Only)

Cover Reveal - Summer With The Country Village Vet by Zara Stoneley

I'm very excited to be sharing with you my second cover reveal of the week, and this one is also a book that will without a doubt be reviewed on Rachel's Random Reads when I can. I absolutely love this authors previous novels, and am very excited about this new one too.

So here it is the simply gorgeous Summer With The Country Village Vet by Zara Stoneley.

How stunning is that cover, and what a remarkable different style it looks from her previous books. I love it, and on this grey February morning, it brings me the feeling of summer.

I can practically hear you asking so what is the book about, and when is it out, so I'll stop talking and give you what I know! 

Publication Date: 2nd June (Ebook), 29th June (Paperback)

Available for Pre-order now on Amazon UK

School teacher Lucy has her life mapped out. She hasn’t got time for a hamster, let alone a man, as she battles her way to the top in a city centre school. Then she’s made redundant. And the only job on offer is in a village school that’s so tiny even her satnav struggles to find it.

But as Lucy settles into life in the idyllic Langtry Meadows she discovers that a house full of animals is more fun than it sounds, the men are nothing like James Herriot or Doc Martin, and a warm-hearted community make it hard to keep her distance and her feelings hidden.

Vet Charlie has secrets he doesn’t want to share. His private life has shattered and all he wants to do is take refuge in his work. But even in Langtry Meadows he can’t hide for ever – and soon his painful past catches up with him.

Spring turns to summer, and Lucy and Charlie both have the chance to turn over a new leaf and start anew. Can Lucy learn to let go and love, and will Charlie share his secret and learn to trust again?

A fun, romantic story to make you smile and long for your own country escape.

I am already longing to curl up on the sofa and settle into life in Langry Meadows. I really hope you are two. Let us know your thoughts about this cover and blurb reveal. Will you be buying and reading it? 

Book Review - The Holiday Swap by Zara Stoneley

Amazon UK

Title: The Holiday Swap

Author: Zara Stoneley

Format reviewed: Ebook

Source: Author supplied review copy

Publisher: Harper Impulse

Publication Date: 2nd September 2016

Rating: 4.5 Stars

Two women, two very different lives – one perfect solution to a Christmas holiday fraught with potential pitfalls.

The Holiday Swap.

Florence Cortes has the perfect life – an apartment in the trendiest district of Barcelona, a job she loves and a boyfriend who’s whisking her away on a romantic break to Paris to no doubt propose.
Only, he’s planning something far different, and Flo soon realises her life isn’t so perfect after all.

Home loving Daisy Fischer is perfectly happy in her idyllic home in the Cheshire countryside, with an on-off boyfriend who might be slightly dull but is totally dependable. Until he issues an ultimatum, and Daisy suddenly realises that there might be a whole different world out there that she’s missing out on.

Have Flo and Daisy come up with the perfect solution to escape festive heartbreak?
Can a snowbound Christmas in Cheshire – with aristocratic, handsome Hugo as her neighbour, a house full of animals and a leaking roof – help Flo mend her broken heart, and remind her of what she really wants in life?

Can a sunny break in beautiful Barcelona – with the dishy but brooding Javier, a never ending supply of cava, and a sea view to die for – prove to Daisy that playing safe isn’t always the answer?

Love actually does seem to be all around this Christmas – and in the places Flo and Daisy least expect to find it, but where will they be for New Year?

I love holidays, I love Zara Stoneley books, I love Spain and Tippermere and I love romance. If you are like me and love even some of those things, then I would suggest you may really enjoy The Holiday Swap. It's a story that feels like its loosely based on the festive film The Holiday, but with slightly less focus on Christmas, and more on the circumstances for the swap, and the two destinations. 

For fans of Zara Stoneley, yes I mentioned Tippermere, we return there, but more to the outskirts, although there are brief cameos from those at Tipping House, which was a very pleasant surprise. There are also horses and dogs as you would perhaps expect, including the most adorable Irish Wolfhound. 

The story is set between Barcelona and Tippermere. In Tippermere we encounter Daisy, who after she is proposed to, realises that she wants more than what her life would be if she was to say yes, and that she wants adventure. In Barcelona, we have Flo who walks in on her boyfriend cheating on her, and is eager to have any distraction from what was there shared life in Spain. 

Flo, and Daisy, with the help from their other friend Anna decide to swap locations for December with the swap back to be on Christmas Eve. What neither are counting on is that there are some men that will distract them completely from their own troubles. 

I loved seeing Javier show Daisy around the various parts of Barcelona and also enjoyed the talk of the tapas and wine tours which sounded tasty. I also loved seeing the sparring going on between Flo and Hugo, as she settles back into country life, including various amusing incidents, usually to do with fires or animals. 

Both locations are described in details and I'm not sure I would be able to decide which I liked best, if pushed and yet both ladies have to make some fairly tricky decisions, as time runs out on their stays.  

I found myself loving every second of the sun and the snow in this story, and thought with the exception of the 2 men they start the book with, that all the characters were likeable and incredibly realistic and I could really imagine them. 

If you are looking for a book to ease you into the festive season then this is certainly a good start, the festiveness is not over the top, but is part of the story, due to the story being set in December. I didn't feel like I needed to set up my Christmas tree in August as a result of this book, but did find it a brilliant way to spend a Bank Holiday.

Thank you so much to Zara Stoneley for this review copy. This was my honest opinion. 

Book Review & Giveaway - Country Rivals by Zara Stoneley - Booklympics

Amazon UK

Title: Country Rivals (The Tippermere Series)

Author: Zara Stoneley

Format reviewed: Ebook

Source: Netgalley

Publisher: Harper Impulse

Publication Date: 11th August 2016

Rating: 4.5 Stars

Dashing eventer Rory is ready to button up his breeches and settle down. His gorgeous wife, Lottie, wants a bank balance in the black so she can protect the beautiful family estate for future generations.

But with the wedding business at Tipping House going up in flames, and rumours that it was arson not accident, Lottie begins to wonder who she can trust with her future.

Tranquil Tippermere is under siege as movies moguls and insurance investigators invade the countryside, and as events gather pace rescue plans start to look too good to be true, and intentions may not be as honourable as they seem.

As a moody, but definitely marvellous, polo player enters the fray and squares up to the eventing hero of Tippermere, does Lottie stand to lose her husband as well as her home?

What a welcome return to Tippermere this was. From the second I saw the list of characters at the start, I was reminded instantly of my love affair with this series, and how eager I was to get into this one.  The first chapter could not have started any better, having me laughing at Lady Elizabeth, while being introduced to a new character very early on. 

Having read the rest of this series in order, I would recommend reading them all, but this can definitely be read as a standalone book without too much trouble. There is enough back story included, as well as a whole new set of characters to add a new dynamic to the story. 

At first I really wasn't sure what to think about the film crew that were being allowed to film on the grounds of  house, however it does introduce us to Xander who is a sexy polo player, that may just attract Lottie's interest, and Jamie a youngster who Lady Elizabeth has taken a shine too. 

The story feels a lot less sex mad this time around, and a lot more mature and emotional as events unfold. I was at one point feeling high adrenalin in a scene with the horses which turned into shock, and then upset, followed more high emotions during a scene just chapters later. Then there are the two three year old children that Rory seems to end up looking after more often than not, and Roxy, with her inability to pronounce her "Rs" is adorable and such a handful, and is clearly the star of every scene she is in. 

There are a good deal of deeper themes running through the story, from the finances of the estate, to whether Lottie is ready for or wants children and how events in childhood can really affect your adulthood. There is a real villain of the book, who although it won't come as too much of a surprise as to who it is, the levels of the deception will shock and the overall reveals for it, were unputdownable. 

I am a massive fan of Zara Stoneley's writing, and her ability to give all the animals such great personalities as well as the children being pretty spot on age wise, and how she has grown all the characters over the series so far. There is a whole menagerie of dogs and horses this time around, some old and some new, and although we don't really get much Polo or eventing, there is plenty of horse riding, and pony riding, to give you a good feel about what life in a horse yard may be like. 

I'm desperately hoping that this won't be the last we see of Tippermere, as there is so much more that could be done with this wonderful group of characters, even if the focus changed slightly. From the books I've read in the series so far, it is amazing how good the character development has been for the key cast over a three book arc, and I would love to see where they will go from here. Another fantastic addition to this series that I adored reading. 

Thank you to Netgalley and Harper Impulse for this review copy. This was my honest opinion. 

Giveaway - Win a signed copy of Country Rivals (Open Internationally)

To celebrate paperback publication day of Country Rivals, Zara Stoneley has very kindly offered us a signed copy as a prize. 

Giveaway open Internationally, all options are voluntary, but please do what they ask, as I will be verifying the winner. Giveaway closes 23:59 18/8/2016. Winner will be announced on twitter and emailed, and they will need to reply within 7 days, or forfeit the prize, and I will re-draw for a new winner.  Good luck everyone.

Win a signed copy of Country Rivals (Open Internationally)