Tag Archive | Rachels Random Resources

The Last Laugh Club by Kate Galley

A Final Request

The Last Laugh Club by Kate Galley is a charming contemporary novel that I loved and read in just one sitting.

The leading characters are all over seventy and prove that you are never too old to have a new adventure or experience, or to learn new skills.

Three former work colleagues find themselves heading to Shetland to fulfil the final wish of their former boss and friend, as they scatter his ashes in a place he always wanted to visit. An old photograph gives clues as to why.

As the three journey together, old feeling emerge. They all have feelings of guilt from one dreadful day years ago, and have avoided each other ever since. Close proximity forces them to confront what needs to be laid to rest.

Shetland is a wild and rugged landscape, more so in winter. The landscape comes alive under the author’s descriptive pen.

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Jaipur Moon by Liz Harris

Unearthed Secrets

Jaipur Moon by Liz Harris is a historical novel that I enjoyed.

The book is set in India in 1934 as we follow three British families who reside there.

Secrets from 1916 that have been buried, threaten to be unearthed. Unscrupulous characters plot the downfall of others in order to preserve themselves.

There are big hearted characters who believe that family should know the truth. Secrets are a big burden to bear.

One’s character is far more important than one’s wealth. The love of money is the root of all evil and is sure to bring about a downfall.

Three eighteen-year-olds are in the market for marriage. They want to choose their own partners for love, and not have their parents influence.

Liz Harris has written a novel that explodes with vibrancy of heat and colour due to her comprehensive descriptions. The reader is also educated as we are treated to trips out to local landmarks.

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The Little Cottage By The Cornish Sea by Nancy Barone

Coastal Aunts

The Little Cottage By The Cornish Sea by Nancy Barone is the most delightful contemporary novel that I absolutely loved and never wanted it to end.

The main theme is that of friendship. The lead character is fleeing her life in London. It was an isolated life with just one best friend. Her life was closed and lonely in London. In contrast with a small Cornish fishing village which offers friendship, care, compassion and so much more. It is a place where strangers are welcomed as family. Love and support abound.

A dilapidated cottage is in need of a make-over. Likewise, this echoes the life of the leading lady who also needs a make-over of her life.

There are huge hearts within the novel. Their love and care reach beyond the pages to envelop the reader. We feel better at the end of the book than we did at the beginning.

Lives need help in order to heal. In the village kind hearts provide the groundwork for healing.

There are some misunderstandings but the truth is always the truth, and will come out one day.

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A Scottish Teashop In Napoli by Jane Lambert

Insieme Per Sempre (Together Forever)

A Scottish Teashop In Napoli by Jane Lambert is the most delightful contemporary novel that I thoroughly enjoyed.

All the characters were wonderfully warm and welcoming. They wrapped around the reader as we received a virtual hug in a book.

The novel opens in Scotland but we soon travel to Naples as a character has a complete change of life following a public jilting.

Scotland represents the past. Naples equals a new beginning. The scenery was bright and sunny. The characters opened their homes and their hearts to a young Scottish woman.

Throughout the novel, the reader’s taste buds are tempted to delicious sounding food fayre. I was pleased to find the inclusion of recipes at the back of the book.

Characters bond over food. The food ‘speaks’ of love. “Whenever Lucy baked, she could feel her grandmother beside her.” Her Grandmother introduced Lucy to her love of baking which became her passion.

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