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Tarrin's Bay #1
The January Wish
From Escape's queen of ro-magic comedy comes a sweet, emotional contemporary romance about the pleasures of making a wish and seeing it come true.
When Dr Sylvia Greene makes an impromptu wish at the Tarrin’s Bay Wishing Festival, it's the most out of character action she can think of. Hers is not a life of wishes. Hers is a controlled life of order, plans and preparation…of science and research and diagnosis and treatment. But her past has been weighing on her mind, and decisions made long ago have far-reaching consequences.
A week later, the daughter she secretly gave up for adoption at sixteen arrives in Sylvia's small coastal town with secrets that can't be shared. Between feelings of guilt, gossip, and a growing attraction to an emotionally unavailable colleague, Sylvia's well-ordered life is soon thrown into chaos. She is no longer alone, and for the first time she feels as if her world is open to possibilities.
They say be careful what you wish for, but, for Sylvia, the unexpected consequences may be just what the doctor ordered.
When Dr Sylvia Greene makes an impromptu wish at the Tarrin’s Bay Wishing Festival, it's the most out of character action she can think of. Hers is not a life of wishes. Hers is a controlled life of order, plans and preparation…of science and research and diagnosis and treatment. But her past has been weighing on her mind, and decisions made long ago have far-reaching consequences.
A week later, the daughter she secretly gave up for adoption at sixteen arrives in Sylvia's small coastal town with secrets that can't be shared. Between feelings of guilt, gossip, and a growing attraction to an emotionally unavailable colleague, Sylvia's well-ordered life is soon thrown into chaos. She is no longer alone, and for the first time she feels as if her world is open to possibilities.
They say be careful what you wish for, but, for Sylvia, the unexpected consequences may be just what the doctor ordered.
173 pages, ebook
First published January 1, 2014
72 people are currently reading
260 people want to read
About the author
Juliet Madison
34 books167 followersJuliet Madison is a bestselling and award-nominated author of 20 books with humour, heart, and serendipity. Writing both fiction and self help, she is also an artist and colouring book illustrator, a mind/body/spirit coach, and a writing course creator.
With her background as a naturopath and a dancer, Juliet is passionate about living a healthy and positive life. She likes to combine her love of words, art, and self-empowerment to create books that entertain and inspire readers to find the magic in everyday life.
Juliet lives on the picturesque south coast of NSW, Australia, where she spends as much time as possible writing books, drawing, teaching online courses, being with family, and as little time as possible doing housework.
She is represented by literary agent Joelle Delbourgo, and has been published by Escape Publishing-Harlequin/Harper Collins Australia, Sourcebooks USA, Dover Publications, Diversion Books, Bloodhound Books, and Once Upon a Book Club.
Juliet loves to interact online with readers and writers. You can contact her on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/JulietMadison..., instagram http://www.instagram.com/julietmadiso... and through her website http://www.julietmadison.com
With her background as a naturopath and a dancer, Juliet is passionate about living a healthy and positive life. She likes to combine her love of words, art, and self-empowerment to create books that entertain and inspire readers to find the magic in everyday life.
Juliet lives on the picturesque south coast of NSW, Australia, where she spends as much time as possible writing books, drawing, teaching online courses, being with family, and as little time as possible doing housework.
She is represented by literary agent Joelle Delbourgo, and has been published by Escape Publishing-Harlequin/Harper Collins Australia, Sourcebooks USA, Dover Publications, Diversion Books, Bloodhound Books, and Once Upon a Book Club.
Juliet loves to interact online with readers and writers. You can contact her on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/JulietMadison..., instagram http://www.instagram.com/julietmadiso... and through her website http://www.julietmadison.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
February 12, 2014
THE JANUARY WISH is set in Tarrin's Bay which is a fictional town based on the author’s home town of Kiama. Sylvia is a local GP and neat freak, a place for everything and everything in its place, so it is a surprise to her that she acts on an impulse and joins the throngs to make a wish at the annual wishing festival held in Miracle Park each January. Sylvia makes a wish that she can find out what happened to the daughter she gave up for adoption eighteen years previously when she was sixteen. The fact that she has a child has been a deeply kept secret and only her best friend, the child’s father and her parents know the truth. The wish comes true a few days later when her daughter Grace Forrester turns up in the beachside town looking for her birth mother. Something that Sylvia embraces happily. There is another new arrival in town; Mark Bastian is a Naturopath and joins the clinic where Sylvia works to set up an alternative practice. Mark is there to compliment the medical profession but Sylvia thinks it is all rubbish and can do more harm than good. So of course you just know that there is going to be a romance between these two. The romance is really very much in the background, the focus is on Grace who is going through a transitional period after the death of her mother, and Sylvia who has reached a cross roads and feels that she is missing out on something, which is her daughter. Mark is the link between them as he helps Grace with some medical issues and while his relationship grows with Sylvia.
THE JANUARY WISH is a feel good story that is well written and quick to read. It tackles some very heavy issues without being preachy. Sylvia, Mark and Grace all have baggage in their past which need to come out in the open before they can move forward, and they are supported by a wonderful cast of support characters in some great settings – loved the bookshop and the café! There were a few twists and turns in the story before the ending arrives – and I really liked the ending and how everything was wrapped up. THE JANUARY WISH is the first in a series set in Tarrin's Bay so I am sure these three will be back as support characters. The next book in the series is ‘February or Forever’ which has just been published and I have lined up ready to read.
Rating: Above average. Was very readable and I really liked it but was easily able to put it down and walk away for a while
THE JANUARY WISH is a feel good story that is well written and quick to read. It tackles some very heavy issues without being preachy. Sylvia, Mark and Grace all have baggage in their past which need to come out in the open before they can move forward, and they are supported by a wonderful cast of support characters in some great settings – loved the bookshop and the café! There were a few twists and turns in the story before the ending arrives – and I really liked the ending and how everything was wrapped up. THE JANUARY WISH is the first in a series set in Tarrin's Bay so I am sure these three will be back as support characters. The next book in the series is ‘February or Forever’ which has just been published and I have lined up ready to read.
Rating: Above average. Was very readable and I really liked it but was easily able to put it down and walk away for a while
January 25, 2024
I came across this book quite accidentally on Amazon, and purely because it's January I thought why not!
Well, I wasn't disappointed at all.
It was such an easy read that flowed from start to finish, despite at times talking and covering some quite hard emotional subjects but it was done in such a lovely way, even the sad bits were nice to read.
The last few chapters even had me welling up a little too.
Great read - looking forward to the others now.
Well, I wasn't disappointed at all.
It was such an easy read that flowed from start to finish, despite at times talking and covering some quite hard emotional subjects but it was done in such a lovely way, even the sad bits were nice to read.
The last few chapters even had me welling up a little too.
Great read - looking forward to the others now.
January 4, 2014
This is the story of Sylvia Greene, family practitioner in Tarrin's Bay. She doesn't believe in wishing but finds herself making a wish at the annual Wishing Festival in the local Miracle Park. The wish involves the daughter she gave up for adoption 18 years ago but she never expected it to come true.
The arrival in town of Grace Forrester, her daughter, triggers a whole lot of happenings. It also coincides with the arrival of Mark Bastian, a Naturopath and Acupuncturist to join the clinic where Sylvia works.
This story is really about Sylvia, with a fair scooping of Grace who is going through a transitional time in her life after the death of her adoptive mother. Mark too is going through a difficult time in his life and we get to see some of this as well. He is totally adorable, almost too perfect and *cough* celibate at present *does happy dance*.
The set-up is a lot about the town and we get to see quite a few locals. At times I would have liked them to get off stage and bring Mark back on. *drools* However, this is the first of the series which I'm presuming are all small town romances set in the Bay so I'm sure they will provide a background for further books and may have stories of their own. At times I did feel the author used Mark's profession as a promotional launching pad for natural/complementary therapy. A bit preachy at times, but it did fit the story as Sylvia, like many doctors, did regard them with suspicion.
Overall this is a very sweet story with a likeable cast of characters. It did get me wiping my eyes at one point near the end so I was well engaged. The ending was satisfying and I look forward to hopefully seeing Sylvia and Mark as background characters in further books.
The arrival in town of Grace Forrester, her daughter, triggers a whole lot of happenings. It also coincides with the arrival of Mark Bastian, a Naturopath and Acupuncturist to join the clinic where Sylvia works.
This story is really about Sylvia, with a fair scooping of Grace who is going through a transitional time in her life after the death of her adoptive mother. Mark too is going through a difficult time in his life and we get to see some of this as well. He is totally adorable, almost too perfect and *cough* celibate at present *does happy dance*.
The set-up is a lot about the town and we get to see quite a few locals. At times I would have liked them to get off stage and bring Mark back on. *drools* However, this is the first of the series which I'm presuming are all small town romances set in the Bay so I'm sure they will provide a background for further books and may have stories of their own. At times I did feel the author used Mark's profession as a promotional launching pad for natural/complementary therapy. A bit preachy at times, but it did fit the story as Sylvia, like many doctors, did regard them with suspicion.
Overall this is a very sweet story with a likeable cast of characters. It did get me wiping my eyes at one point near the end so I was well engaged. The ending was satisfying and I look forward to hopefully seeing Sylvia and Mark as background characters in further books.
November 23, 2014
I read this in January - only just found my notes for the review. Sorry it took so long, Juliet!
As I stated when I initially read The January Wish, this was just such a joy to read. Coming away from this book, I was left in a really sunny, happy mood.
Firstly, what a perfect little setting for a romance, and for a series as a whole! Tarrin’s Bay has its inspiration drawn from the gorgeous NSW South Coast town of Kiama, a very familiar place to me from childhood. The way in which the town and its people are crafted makes you want to pull up stumps and go there.
Most importantly, the story within the covers is simply delightful. We get to see Sylvia emerge from her overly-ordered and structured cocoon, and embrace the differences & unexpected surprises of life. The romance that develops between the very traditional Sylvia and the naturopath Mark is really lovely, as is the relationship that Sylvia develops with her long-lost daughter, Grace.
I’ve read the next in the series, February or Forever, and adored it as well. This is a series that I will always look forward to, and Tarrin’s Bay and its glorious cast of characters will always be worth a visit.
HOLD UP! The January Wish is about to be re-released as part of a print anthology, Time for The Beach! How awesome! Make sure you check out the release, which also includes titles by Victoria Purman and Eliza Redgold.
Note: I received a copy from the publisher to review. Any opinions expressed are mine.
As I stated when I initially read The January Wish, this was just such a joy to read. Coming away from this book, I was left in a really sunny, happy mood.
Firstly, what a perfect little setting for a romance, and for a series as a whole! Tarrin’s Bay has its inspiration drawn from the gorgeous NSW South Coast town of Kiama, a very familiar place to me from childhood. The way in which the town and its people are crafted makes you want to pull up stumps and go there.
Most importantly, the story within the covers is simply delightful. We get to see Sylvia emerge from her overly-ordered and structured cocoon, and embrace the differences & unexpected surprises of life. The romance that develops between the very traditional Sylvia and the naturopath Mark is really lovely, as is the relationship that Sylvia develops with her long-lost daughter, Grace.
I’ve read the next in the series, February or Forever, and adored it as well. This is a series that I will always look forward to, and Tarrin’s Bay and its glorious cast of characters will always be worth a visit.
HOLD UP! The January Wish is about to be re-released as part of a print anthology, Time for The Beach! How awesome! Make sure you check out the release, which also includes titles by Victoria Purman and Eliza Redgold.
Note: I received a copy from the publisher to review. Any opinions expressed are mine.
January 19, 2014
A small town coastal romance set in Tarrin's Bay, Australia. This book has it all, romance, family drama and small town living. The book has three main characters, Sylvia, Mark and Grace. They are each healing from personal pasts. This book will make you laugh and cry,I did not want to leave Tarrin's Bay. Looking forward to reading the next book February or Forever.
September 6, 2014
A sweet, feel-good romance from the author of Fast Forward, a book I really enjoyed. I liked the emphasis on second chances in this story - in love, pursuing a talent such as music and becoming a parent. The magical theme of the wishing fountain added something different from a run of the mill romance. I'll look forward to reading the next book in the series.
April 17, 2014
I loved this book. All of the main characters had depth. I like suspense novels, so seeing those elements surprised me. I recommend reading this. For my full review, feel free to check out The Celebrity Cafe.
August 6, 2016
The first book in the Tarrins Bay series left me wanting more and I am so glad the author is writing more books. It's a wonderful setting for stories and the characters to come alive on the page. I look forward to more enjoyable reads in this series!
February 19, 2022
A lovely light and endearing romance (actually you get two romances for the price of one). Local Tarrin Bay Doctor, Sylvia, makes a wish at the fountain during the seaside town's post-Christmas festival. Within days her life is turned upside down. The child she adopted out as a baby comes to town to meet her, her boyfriend dumps her, and the new medical profession at her surgery turns out to be a naturopath (and a handsome one to boot). Sylvia's life has taken a turn for the best as she deals with her past choices, opens her mind to new medical opinions and meets the love of her life. Fun and wonderful holiday reading.
March 11, 2024
Sylvia Greene is a medical doctor. She believes in the power of science and doesn’t believe in fairytales. In her mid-30’s, single and hoping for more, she finds herself in Miracle Park on the 4th of January, standing in line to make a wish at the Wishing Well. It’s an annual ritual in the town of Tarrin Bay – a ritual Sylvia has never participated in until now. She drops in her penny, makes the three turns around the fountain and feels foolish as she heads home.
Sylvia’s has made many choices in her life and her decisions were always based on what was best for everyone involved. She has seldom regretted her choices, but at times she’s wondered the outcome if she had chosen differently. But the past is the past … or is it?
People can wish for many things – fortune, happiness, love, luck. Like the stories of old with the genie in the bottle, you must make your wish wisely because the opportunity may never present itself again. But sometimes we receive something we didn’t even know we wished for. A face in a crowd, a remembrance of your by-gone youth, a mannerism that looks all too familiar. You find yourself staring at someone you feel you should know but have never met. And then her words ….. “I’m the daughter you have up for adoption 18 years ago.”
What follows is a touching story of reconciliation, healing, discovery and love. Perhaps wrapped up a with a little too much sugar – but a lovely story just the same. A stark contrast to the thriller stories I normally read, but it was a pleasant detour and worth the read.
Sylvia’s has made many choices in her life and her decisions were always based on what was best for everyone involved. She has seldom regretted her choices, but at times she’s wondered the outcome if she had chosen differently. But the past is the past … or is it?
People can wish for many things – fortune, happiness, love, luck. Like the stories of old with the genie in the bottle, you must make your wish wisely because the opportunity may never present itself again. But sometimes we receive something we didn’t even know we wished for. A face in a crowd, a remembrance of your by-gone youth, a mannerism that looks all too familiar. You find yourself staring at someone you feel you should know but have never met. And then her words ….. “I’m the daughter you have up for adoption 18 years ago.”
What follows is a touching story of reconciliation, healing, discovery and love. Perhaps wrapped up a with a little too much sugar – but a lovely story just the same. A stark contrast to the thriller stories I normally read, but it was a pleasant detour and worth the read.
January 28, 2022
a beautiful story
Juliet Madison has a way of weaving a story that gets under your skin and creates a thousand emotions. I adored these characters and can’t wait to return to Tarrin’s Bay
Juliet Madison has a way of weaving a story that gets under your skin and creates a thousand emotions. I adored these characters and can’t wait to return to Tarrin’s Bay
March 24, 2018
Tales interwoven that just kept going on - enjoyed this despite not being the usual crime/murder/mystery genre I like. An easy read while on holiday.
(Time for the Beach - 3-in-1 Australian Sellers)
(Time for the Beach - 3-in-1 Australian Sellers)
April 9, 2024
moving storyline
I really liked this book,it kept me interested all the way through to the end, would recommend to my friends
I really liked this book,it kept me interested all the way through to the end, would recommend to my friends
June 7, 2024
I absolutely loved this book. Great story line and amazing writing. Looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
January 27, 2014
I’ve really enjoyed the previous ro-magic novellas by Juliet Madison (I Dream of Johnny and Starstruck in Seattle), so I was super excited to see she had a new novel out this month. What’s even better is that it’s the first in a series, linked by place – Tarrin’s Bay. Tarrin’s Bay is a (sadly, fictional) small town by the ocean – just big enough to have some wonderful cafes and residents who don’t know all of the neighbours’ dirty secrets. It sounds like a wonderful place to holiday and unwind with the local markets and festivals.
It’s at one of these festivals where Dr Sylvia Greene makes a wish at the wishing well. Why? Sylvia’s not exactly sure herself. Sylvia’s an exceptionally organised person – she has a strict shopping list and never does anything out of routine. She even co-ordinates schedules with her surgeon boyfriend Richard before they decide on a time to go on a date. Then everything begins to change…Sylvia’s daughter (the result of a teenage pregnancy) arrives in Tarrin’s Bay. A naturopath takes the office next door to her. Suddenly, Sylvia’s world begins to be disordered and spontaneous…and she could just like it!
This is a lovely story, as it revolves around a number of easy to like characters, all with their unique backstory that adds to the narrative. While I’ve mainly mentioned Sylvia above, there’s a lot of time spent following Grace (her daughter) and Mark, the naturopath and herbalist. All the characters interact to form a lovely community feel. (Is Tarrin’s Bay full of such lovely people? I’m sure we’ll get to know about more of them as time moves on). I particularly liked the juxtaposition between Sylvia, a general practitioner with a staunch disbelief in anything not proven by a randomised clinical trial published in the New England Journal of Medicine and Mark. Mark, the son of a pharmacist who completed one year of a pharmacy degree has branched out into natural medicine. His beliefs are in naturopathy and natural medicine. It’s a ginormous leap for Sylvia to even spend a moment with someone so diametrically opposed to her professional beliefs, but Mark is a generous man who accepts that all aspects of medicine will never agree. I didn’t feel the natural medicine aspect was pushed to the exclusion of other forms, which is not an easy thing to accomplish.
While there is romance (multiple!) in this story, I didn’t feel that it was the major plotline. I feel this is a story about people, their lives – good and bad. The storyline of Sylvia and Grace meeting each other, then trying to see how they fit in each other’s lives was well plotted and the ending…well, I had tears in my eyes. It was just perfect – a reader couldn’t wish for a better ending. The loose ends were tied up just the way you want them – this type of Happily Ever After (HEA) should be patented! This is my favourite Juliet Madison novel yet and I highly recommend it if you are looking for a sweet, character driven story.
Fortunately, there is a new Tarrin’s Bay story out next month – February Or Forever. I can’t wait to read this one!
Thank you to Escape Publishing and Net Galley for the eARC.
http://samstillreading.wordpress.com
It’s at one of these festivals where Dr Sylvia Greene makes a wish at the wishing well. Why? Sylvia’s not exactly sure herself. Sylvia’s an exceptionally organised person – she has a strict shopping list and never does anything out of routine. She even co-ordinates schedules with her surgeon boyfriend Richard before they decide on a time to go on a date. Then everything begins to change…Sylvia’s daughter (the result of a teenage pregnancy) arrives in Tarrin’s Bay. A naturopath takes the office next door to her. Suddenly, Sylvia’s world begins to be disordered and spontaneous…and she could just like it!
This is a lovely story, as it revolves around a number of easy to like characters, all with their unique backstory that adds to the narrative. While I’ve mainly mentioned Sylvia above, there’s a lot of time spent following Grace (her daughter) and Mark, the naturopath and herbalist. All the characters interact to form a lovely community feel. (Is Tarrin’s Bay full of such lovely people? I’m sure we’ll get to know about more of them as time moves on). I particularly liked the juxtaposition between Sylvia, a general practitioner with a staunch disbelief in anything not proven by a randomised clinical trial published in the New England Journal of Medicine and Mark. Mark, the son of a pharmacist who completed one year of a pharmacy degree has branched out into natural medicine. His beliefs are in naturopathy and natural medicine. It’s a ginormous leap for Sylvia to even spend a moment with someone so diametrically opposed to her professional beliefs, but Mark is a generous man who accepts that all aspects of medicine will never agree. I didn’t feel the natural medicine aspect was pushed to the exclusion of other forms, which is not an easy thing to accomplish.
While there is romance (multiple!) in this story, I didn’t feel that it was the major plotline. I feel this is a story about people, their lives – good and bad. The storyline of Sylvia and Grace meeting each other, then trying to see how they fit in each other’s lives was well plotted and the ending…well, I had tears in my eyes. It was just perfect – a reader couldn’t wish for a better ending. The loose ends were tied up just the way you want them – this type of Happily Ever After (HEA) should be patented! This is my favourite Juliet Madison novel yet and I highly recommend it if you are looking for a sweet, character driven story.
Fortunately, there is a new Tarrin’s Bay story out next month – February Or Forever. I can’t wait to read this one!
Thank you to Escape Publishing and Net Galley for the eARC.
http://samstillreading.wordpress.com
August 29, 2014
Also posted on This Chick Reads
*Copy provided by publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
Actual rating 3.5/5
I've always been the one to say a 3* rating is not the end of the world and yet, here I am sad and almost brokenhearted for giving this book such a rating (It's actually 3.5/5 to be more precise). I am a HUGE fan of Juliet Madison and have read all her works (except for the second one in this series 'February or Forever' which I will be reading soon) and I did have high expectations, naturally. Recently I read Fast Forward and undoubtedly that's one of the best books I've ever read. So, after finishing it, I was dying to read the novels from the Tarrin's Bay series. Now I know shouldn't be comparing 'Fast Forward' with 'The January Wish' because while 'Fast Forward' is a typical chick lit with time travel elements, 'The January Wish' falls into contemporary romance category with more drama elements. The topic is more serious and it's deeper and more emotional book, and yet somehow I had the feeling I'm missing that WOW factor that I saw in 'Fast Forward'.
Let me just go briefly over the plot. The story is quite an emotional one and deals with life and serious issues. Sylvia Greene, the MC in this book is a very down to earth person. But her normal and controlled life is about to change when she meets Grace, the daughter she had when she was only 16. Now as I said, this is a rather emotional book and there were parts where I seriously had to control myself not to burst in tears. Sylvia had to give up her baby because she was so young (only 16) and everyone was telling her a baby would only ruin her life. 18 years later she might be a successful doctor yet she realizes how much she misses that part of her she had to give away.
This was indeed a touchy story, yet I had some issues with it, the biggest being the MC. Sylvia is 34 years old and so am I, so it was really kind of awesome to read a book about someone who's not in their 20's. She has a career, so do I..and I really thought I would connect to her more. I know I've never been in her situation (thank god) but it was really hard to make a connection with her. It felt like she lacks some depth as a character.
The writing is good, it's a fast read and a short one too. I also loved Tarrin's Bay and think Juliet did an excellent job with the descriptions.
I'll be reading the second one 'February or Forever' soon and already looking forward to March.
August 9, 2016
The January Wish is women's fiction, family drama, and romance all rolled into one -- and set in Australia. I loved the plot: Sylvia reunites with the daughter she gave up for adoption 18 years ago. And I enjoyed the subplots: Sylvia breaks up with one guy and falls in love with another; Sylvia's daughter experiences young love; small-town citizens support each other personally and in business.
I didn't like the characters, though. I thought they were a little wishy washy, a little boring, a little unrealistic in their behavior. For example, we hear repeatedly (too many times, really) about Sylvia's reserved and organized life - from her wardrobe to her car to her office - and then she lets loose dancing on the bar at a bachelorette party (hen night). That just doesn't make sense to me. That kind if thing happens more than a few times. Later in the book, two conservative characters decide to play strip Scrabble. It just didn't seem natural based on what the author told us about this couple... So why add it?
The unnatural dialogue hurt my ability to enjoy the book as well.
...
"Yes, she mentioned how she quite enjoys her acupuncture sessions now... But how anyone could enjoy having tiny needles stuck into their skin is beyond me!" Sylvia managed a friendly laugh.
...
Even if someone were to say those exact words, I imagine them said under the breath or out of the side of the mouth, not exclaimed and followed by laughter (and this is spoken by the reserved, boring gal).
The characters and dialogue just weren't up to par and really hindered any enjoyment of the plot. The writing was so verbose and descriptive at times, I was distracted from the plot. (Um, recurring mentions of Mr. Benson -- why? How did this relate to the story?) I started skipping paragraphs just to find something related to the plot or subplots.
All in all, I didn't like the writing, characters or dialogue. Unfortunately, they took away too much from a beautifully thought-out plot.
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
I didn't like the characters, though. I thought they were a little wishy washy, a little boring, a little unrealistic in their behavior. For example, we hear repeatedly (too many times, really) about Sylvia's reserved and organized life - from her wardrobe to her car to her office - and then she lets loose dancing on the bar at a bachelorette party (hen night). That just doesn't make sense to me. That kind if thing happens more than a few times. Later in the book, two conservative characters decide to play strip Scrabble. It just didn't seem natural based on what the author told us about this couple... So why add it?
The unnatural dialogue hurt my ability to enjoy the book as well.
...
"Yes, she mentioned how she quite enjoys her acupuncture sessions now... But how anyone could enjoy having tiny needles stuck into their skin is beyond me!" Sylvia managed a friendly laugh.
...
Even if someone were to say those exact words, I imagine them said under the breath or out of the side of the mouth, not exclaimed and followed by laughter (and this is spoken by the reserved, boring gal).
The characters and dialogue just weren't up to par and really hindered any enjoyment of the plot. The writing was so verbose and descriptive at times, I was distracted from the plot. (Um, recurring mentions of Mr. Benson -- why? How did this relate to the story?) I started skipping paragraphs just to find something related to the plot or subplots.
All in all, I didn't like the writing, characters or dialogue. Unfortunately, they took away too much from a beautifully thought-out plot.
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
February 19, 2024
Wonderful read
Enjoyed this so much, couldn't put it down, well written, clever plot, intriguing, tantalizing and it ended happily, so I'm happy.
Enjoyed this so much, couldn't put it down, well written, clever plot, intriguing, tantalizing and it ended happily, so I'm happy.
January 2, 2014
Dr. Sylvia Greene is taking a bold step for herself. She goes to the Tarrin’s Bay Wishing Festival and makes a wish. One she doesn’t share with anyone. Then she soon finds her life flipped upside down. Some of the changes are hard, like her boyfriend walking out on her when he discovers she had a baby as a teen. Sylvia is strong, though, and rises to every challenge! Including the handsome Mark who’s struggling with his own set of issues. Then there’s Sylvia’s daughter Grace Forrester. Grace’s character brought so much to this story. Plus, she has a crush of her own growing.
I thought this was an amazing story that was so much more than just a romance. I’m a sucker for romance; it’s my favorite genre. But, I want a book to be more. This book is! I often times felt like I was on an emotional rollercoaster. There’s plenty of humor and heart-warming moments, but this book is also a real tear-jerker. I teared up more than once, and that’s not usual for me! The characters were so real, and I felt like I was right there with them.
The only downside for me at all was the bittersweet ending. I won’t give any details away, but that was the hardest for me to take. I really, really hope Ms. Madison follows this book up with Grace’s story – and I’d really, really love to see a particular reunion for Grace – hint! hint!
I recommend this to all those romance lovers out there that like a bit of depth to their stories! An easy 4 Stars!!
*I received a copy of this book via NetGalley, Harlequin Enterprises Australia, and Escape Publishing in exchange for an honest review.*
I thought this was an amazing story that was so much more than just a romance. I’m a sucker for romance; it’s my favorite genre. But, I want a book to be more. This book is! I often times felt like I was on an emotional rollercoaster. There’s plenty of humor and heart-warming moments, but this book is also a real tear-jerker. I teared up more than once, and that’s not usual for me! The characters were so real, and I felt like I was right there with them.
The only downside for me at all was the bittersweet ending. I won’t give any details away, but that was the hardest for me to take. I really, really hope Ms. Madison follows this book up with Grace’s story – and I’d really, really love to see a particular reunion for Grace – hint! hint!
I recommend this to all those romance lovers out there that like a bit of depth to their stories! An easy 4 Stars!!
*I received a copy of this book via NetGalley, Harlequin Enterprises Australia, and Escape Publishing in exchange for an honest review.*
September 5, 2016
The Deal: Dr. Sylvia Green is a practical woman, she works hard as a GP in her small costal town, she's dating a surgeon from a near by hospital and is generally happy with her own life. But a flight of fancy took her to the Tarrin's Bay Wishing Festival held every january at the town's park, and made her throw in a coin and make a wish, even though she knows it's silly.
But, when a week later, her all grown up daughter - the daughter she gave up for adoption 18 years before, shows up she realizes you must be careful with what you wish for.
Disruptive as this new development is, she's quite happy to reconnect with the daughter she never thought would get a chance to meet, even if her world is now upside down
My Thoughts: The January Wish was a quick and fun read. For me the main plot was about Sylvia and her daughter (who also had a few secrets up her sleeve), I was pleasantly surprised to see how mature they were about the whole "long lost daughter" thing. Sylvia's daughter Grace loved her parents and just wanted to know Sylvia on a curiosity level, she wasn't angry or anything.
There is also a bit of a romance plot going through, which was well done and enjoyable, but to me that wasn't the focus.
All in all, a sweet read.
But, when a week later, her all grown up daughter - the daughter she gave up for adoption 18 years before, shows up she realizes you must be careful with what you wish for.
Disruptive as this new development is, she's quite happy to reconnect with the daughter she never thought would get a chance to meet, even if her world is now upside down
My Thoughts: The January Wish was a quick and fun read. For me the main plot was about Sylvia and her daughter (who also had a few secrets up her sleeve), I was pleasantly surprised to see how mature they were about the whole "long lost daughter" thing. Sylvia's daughter Grace loved her parents and just wanted to know Sylvia on a curiosity level, she wasn't angry or anything.
There is also a bit of a romance plot going through, which was well done and enjoyable, but to me that wasn't the focus.
All in all, a sweet read.
February 15, 2014
3.5 stars
The January Wish is a sweet, easy read but not without substance, likable characters with interesting back stories round out the story.
Sylvia's ordered life takes a leap into new territory when she makes a wish at the Tarrin's Bay Wishing Festival and Grace, the daughter she gave up for adoption re-enters her life. I was surprised by how much I liked Sylvia and her obsessive, controlling personality, she does manage to keep her 'uptight' under tight rein but it was nice to see her relax a bit over the course of the novel. I warmed to newly arrived naturopath Mark immediately but Grace was my favourite ... a fresh, spring breeze.
Slow blossoming romance is not the sole focus of the story, there's relationship growth for a number of a key characters, at the forefront Sylvia and Grace. My only complaint; stilted dialogue interrupted the easy flow of the story just a little.
I loved the setting, it was so easy to picture the small coastal town of Tarrin's Bay with the quirky Mrs May's Bookstore and upbeat Cafe Lagoon.
My first time reading Australian author Juliet Madison but I'm already looking forward to February Or Forever. Fingers crossed we get to stay in touch with these characters as the series progresses.
The January Wish is a sweet, easy read but not without substance, likable characters with interesting back stories round out the story.
Sylvia's ordered life takes a leap into new territory when she makes a wish at the Tarrin's Bay Wishing Festival and Grace, the daughter she gave up for adoption re-enters her life. I was surprised by how much I liked Sylvia and her obsessive, controlling personality, she does manage to keep her 'uptight' under tight rein but it was nice to see her relax a bit over the course of the novel. I warmed to newly arrived naturopath Mark immediately but Grace was my favourite ... a fresh, spring breeze.
Slow blossoming romance is not the sole focus of the story, there's relationship growth for a number of a key characters, at the forefront Sylvia and Grace. My only complaint; stilted dialogue interrupted the easy flow of the story just a little.
I loved the setting, it was so easy to picture the small coastal town of Tarrin's Bay with the quirky Mrs May's Bookstore and upbeat Cafe Lagoon.
My first time reading Australian author Juliet Madison but I'm already looking forward to February Or Forever. Fingers crossed we get to stay in touch with these characters as the series progresses.
January 21, 2014
I very much enjoyed reading The January Wish. The main character, Sylvia, is not someone I would relate to in real life, but that didn't keep me from warming up to her almost instantly. Throughout the novel, hints are dropped about the character's past. Sylvia, Grace, Mark,.. they all seem to have a difficult past they're trying to leave behind and I loved how nothing about it was predictable. Not what they've been through, not how they handled/ handle it, not how the relationships between the characters would evolve,... and finally how it would all come together.
Although life hasn't always been easy for the main characters, and although it keeps throwing them curve balls, it's still a very sweet, very easy to read novel. It's emotional and hopeful. Absolutely loved it.
... already excited to see what March will bring! ;-)
Check out M's Bookshelf for more! http://mssbookshelf.blogspot.be
Although life hasn't always been easy for the main characters, and although it keeps throwing them curve balls, it's still a very sweet, very easy to read novel. It's emotional and hopeful. Absolutely loved it.
... already excited to see what March will bring! ;-)
Check out M's Bookshelf for more! http://mssbookshelf.blogspot.be
January 17, 2014
The January Wish is the story of Sylvia Greene and how, with the help of one little wish, her life is changed forever. Dr Sylvia Greene prides herself on her well organised life, full of science and routine, but all that changes when she makes a wish at the Tarrin's Bay Wishing Festival. Before long she is faced with the daughter she gave up for adoption and a new, very attractive work colleague.
The January Wish starts off slowly but really picks up the pace towards the end of the book where it hits an emotional high point that leaves a lasting impression. The characters are easy to relate to and each has their own issues to deal with creating a web of subplots.
I really enjoyed The January Wish despite it's slow start, it was definitely worth reading. Perfect for a nice light read.
Thanks to Harlequin Australia, Escape Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC.
The January Wish starts off slowly but really picks up the pace towards the end of the book where it hits an emotional high point that leaves a lasting impression. The characters are easy to relate to and each has their own issues to deal with creating a web of subplots.
I really enjoyed The January Wish despite it's slow start, it was definitely worth reading. Perfect for a nice light read.
Thanks to Harlequin Australia, Escape Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC.
February 9, 2024
To follow.
Disagree with "meant to happen" when talking about a character's death from meningitis though!
Disagree with "meant to happen" when talking about a character's death from meningitis though!
January 12, 2014
A story of Syliva, a well respected doctor in Tarrin’s Bay, but who has a secret that comes back to meet her after she makes a wish at the annual festival. This is the first in the Tarrin’s Bay series and a good start, although i loved Fast Forward more (and am still telling people about the Epad!)this is a good second book and start to the series. I will certainly be following the whole lot and cant wait for the next book to see how we meet more people from the area and if the characters from January Wish will also be present in other books.
November 30, 2015
I'd probably rate this book 3.75, but I'm happy to give it 4 stars because I quite enjoyed my visit to Tarrin's Bay. In retrospect, I think that I wanted bit more insight into Sylvia's wish at the beginning of the story. I also found myself thinking that Mark being in Sylvia's friend's wedding was too much of a coincidence and it felt a bit contrived to get Sylvia and Mark together. Aside from those things, I enjoyed the relationship between Sylvia and Grace and the beautiful happy ending the author provided. I think the author depicted the 'small town life' very well.
July 24, 2015
Firstly, I can't wait to read more in this series. Secondly, what a great book to have been able to read. Meeting a child that you've given away when you were young and actually having a great relationship with that child makes you see the love, devotion and strength people can have. A romance blossoming between two adults and overcoming grief. A great novel leaving me filled with hope, inspiration and wanting to read more
June 7, 2015
This was my first time reading one of Juliet's books. I have been wanting to read one of her books, so was excited to check out the first of this series. This story is kind, loving, and full of happiness. For me, I personally love stories that are full of heart and soul, and avoid sharing all the negative. This story shares about letting go of the past, finding peace with our decisions, and celebrating the future. I definitely recommend this sweet story!
April 25, 2016
A lovely read about reunion, loss, guilt and finding oneself. A lot of emotional depth is found in a his first book of the Tarrin's Bay series. Looking forward to to reading the next installment.
4.5 stars
4.5 stars
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