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The Little Board Game Café #3
Second Chances at the Board Game Cafe
The next warm and uplifting instalment in The Little Board Game Café series, perfect for fans of Holly Martin and Christie Barlow.
In the cosy Yorkshire village of Hebbleswick, single mum Taylor dreams of a fashion design career, but she spends her days fixing zips, hemming skirts and worrying about her son, Max.
At the local board game cafe, railway enthusiast Harry, still recovering from a painful breakup, dreams of fatherhood. When Taylor and Harry cross paths, sparks fly, but Harry's confidence issues and Taylor's concerns for Max threaten their budding romance.
Can they find a second chance at love where they least expect it?
In the cosy Yorkshire village of Hebbleswick, single mum Taylor dreams of a fashion design career, but she spends her days fixing zips, hemming skirts and worrying about her son, Max.
At the local board game cafe, railway enthusiast Harry, still recovering from a painful breakup, dreams of fatherhood. When Taylor and Harry cross paths, sparks fly, but Harry's confidence issues and Taylor's concerns for Max threaten their budding romance.
Can they find a second chance at love where they least expect it?
304 pages, Paperback
Published June 6, 2024
36 people are currently reading
435 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Page
6 books71 followersJennifer Page lives near Hebden Bridge in West Yorkshire with her husband Hermi and his very – no, make that extremely – large collection of board games. Her debut novel, The Little Board Game Cafe will be published on 13th April 2022. Jennifer writes light-hearted, cosy romantic fiction which was initially inspired by her own dating adventures. Before she met Hermi, she was single for 13 years and had pretty much given up on meeting The One.
When she isn’t writing, Jennifer can usually be found playing board games; since she met Hermi, she’s become even more obsessed with them than he is! She also loves cooking (though she’d never claim to be any good at it!), caravan holidays and walking in the beautiful Yorkshire countryside.
When she isn’t writing, Jennifer can usually be found playing board games; since she met Hermi, she’s become even more obsessed with them than he is! She also loves cooking (though she’d never claim to be any good at it!), caravan holidays and walking in the beautiful Yorkshire countryside.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
June 8, 2025
Second Chances At The Board Game Café is the third book in The Little Board Game Café series by British author, Jennifer Page. Thirty-five-year-old accountant Harry is quite content with his life: he works from home three days a week, finds his routines reassuring, and enjoys evenings at Emily’s Board Game Café, playing train-themed games with the group she has dubbed The Trainspotters. After having his heart broken, he’s not in the market for romance, but he can’t help noticing the attractive young mum trying to placate her son, upset at the prospect of moving house.
Since she made her first skirt at age eleven, Taylor Sweet has always wanted to design clothing. But an unexpected pregnancy in her late teens put paid to attending fashion college, and her dream remained unfulfilled. Not that she would wish away her darling if difficult son, Max, but at twenty-seven, she does often wish for something more exciting.
Taylor has tried to be content with being a single mum, living in a one-bedroom flat, sleeping on a back-breaking sofa bed every night, replacing broken zips, fixing split seams and sewing on buttons, and basically leading a boring life, but when she sees a For Lease sign outside a block of flats, she can’t resist having a look. Way out of her price range, but the agent has something else that might suit. Despite the mould, the prospect of two bedrooms, a proper bath and a front window that will lend itself to creative display have her saying yes.
When Harry encounters Taylor in the Board Game Café, her profession gives him a reason to see her again: new jeans that need shortening. But a miscommunication ends rather disastrously, and Harry compounds this with a throw-away comment. But. There’s a silver lining. Taylor does a brilliant upcycling job on the ruined jeans, marketing expert Kate sees all sorts of potential, and soon an event is planned.
The more Harry sees of Taylor, the more he wishes they could have a future, but she’s surely not going to be interested in a boring train geek. He keeps offering to help out with all the problems her flat, but Taylor has always tried to maintain her independence. And even if she finds Harry attractive and wholesome, her first concern is her boy, whose quirkiness makes him a target for school bullies.
Before the predictable happy ever after ending, there are disasters, misunderstandings, and quite a bit of resistance from Taylor before she accepts some much-needed help from this wonderful little West Pennines valley community. A sweet romance that will have readers eagerly anticipating the fourth book in the series, Christmas at the Board Game Café.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Aria & Aries.
Since she made her first skirt at age eleven, Taylor Sweet has always wanted to design clothing. But an unexpected pregnancy in her late teens put paid to attending fashion college, and her dream remained unfulfilled. Not that she would wish away her darling if difficult son, Max, but at twenty-seven, she does often wish for something more exciting.
Taylor has tried to be content with being a single mum, living in a one-bedroom flat, sleeping on a back-breaking sofa bed every night, replacing broken zips, fixing split seams and sewing on buttons, and basically leading a boring life, but when she sees a For Lease sign outside a block of flats, she can’t resist having a look. Way out of her price range, but the agent has something else that might suit. Despite the mould, the prospect of two bedrooms, a proper bath and a front window that will lend itself to creative display have her saying yes.
When Harry encounters Taylor in the Board Game Café, her profession gives him a reason to see her again: new jeans that need shortening. But a miscommunication ends rather disastrously, and Harry compounds this with a throw-away comment. But. There’s a silver lining. Taylor does a brilliant upcycling job on the ruined jeans, marketing expert Kate sees all sorts of potential, and soon an event is planned.
The more Harry sees of Taylor, the more he wishes they could have a future, but she’s surely not going to be interested in a boring train geek. He keeps offering to help out with all the problems her flat, but Taylor has always tried to maintain her independence. And even if she finds Harry attractive and wholesome, her first concern is her boy, whose quirkiness makes him a target for school bullies.
Before the predictable happy ever after ending, there are disasters, misunderstandings, and quite a bit of resistance from Taylor before she accepts some much-needed help from this wonderful little West Pennines valley community. A sweet romance that will have readers eagerly anticipating the fourth book in the series, Christmas at the Board Game Café.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Aria & Aries.
October 3, 2024
Second Chances at the Board Game Café was an enjoyable read, filled with so many emotions and good deeds.
Jennifer Page has the talent to make me empathise with her characters, her writing is so warm and comforting I have a hard time to put her books down.
Taylor is a single mom, her life isn't going as she dreamt. She is stressed out because her son is bullied at school, her home is too small and she is forced to sleep on the couch, and to top it off her job isn't satisfying anymore. Fortunately she meets the best of people at The Little Board Game Café that will help her to find again her younger fire, purpose and hope.
I loved Taylor. At times I felt sorry for her, I could feel into my bones her struggles. She is really strong, but she had to learn to accept others help, because she is part of a beatiful community which leaves no one behind.
Harry is just so kind and patient, but still scared to give out his heart to another woman. Fortunately with the encouragement of a sweet boy who shares the same nerdy passion for trains he finds the courage to give love another chance.
Recommended!! Now I can't wait to meet some othe characters from this special café.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for kindly giving me an advanced copy of this book to read.
June 22, 2024
I enjoyed this sweet read very much. The characters were all so lovely and the story was gentle and flowed along. My thanks to netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
January 14, 2025
Wonderful, feel good story
A great read.
Harry and Taylor are full of their own insecurities, managing their respective lives.
Max, Taylor son, a train mad little boy completes the story.
I loved each character falling completely in love with them and their story.
The pockets of humour, the joy found in this novel had me smiling throughout.
A great read.
Harry and Taylor are full of their own insecurities, managing their respective lives.
Max, Taylor son, a train mad little boy completes the story.
I loved each character falling completely in love with them and their story.
The pockets of humour, the joy found in this novel had me smiling throughout.
April 2, 2024
I love slipping back into a community where I feel like I'm visiting old friends, and Second Chances at the Board Game Cafe was just that.
This time, we meet a single mum, Taylor, a sewist/seamstress. She is not entirely living her dream of being a fashion designer but struggles to keep her head above water. She also has a steady life for her son, Max, who finds certain situations difficult to handle.
And then we have train enthusiast and accountant, Harry. He's a bit socially awkward and not very experienced with women, but he finds himself strangely attracted to this young woman he keeps seeing in places.
The Board Game Cafe is integral to finally getting them to know one another, albeit under circumstances that have nothing to do with romance! (Don't worry; that follows!)
Taylor is a complex character. Because of falling pregnant, she has not been able to realise her childhood dream, but rather than feel upset, she tries her hardest to give her son the best life she can.
Harry is such a sweetheart, and he really doesn't know it!
I love the way their relationship develops, but Harry's connection with little Max is possibly one of the cutest! Though it isn't made much of, seeing two people with similar social anxieties and interests come together is wonderful. I only wish they had met sooner!
Hearing updates on the other characters, such as Mr B, his wonderful ladyfriend, and even Jo from the last book, was lovely. As I mentioned earlier, it's like visiting friends.
It is a remarkable story with the community at the heart and a great message about upcycling, along with raising awareness of the difficulties some children have at school when they are neurodiverse.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Aria & Aries for an ARC.
This time, we meet a single mum, Taylor, a sewist/seamstress. She is not entirely living her dream of being a fashion designer but struggles to keep her head above water. She also has a steady life for her son, Max, who finds certain situations difficult to handle.
And then we have train enthusiast and accountant, Harry. He's a bit socially awkward and not very experienced with women, but he finds himself strangely attracted to this young woman he keeps seeing in places.
The Board Game Cafe is integral to finally getting them to know one another, albeit under circumstances that have nothing to do with romance! (Don't worry; that follows!)
Taylor is a complex character. Because of falling pregnant, she has not been able to realise her childhood dream, but rather than feel upset, she tries her hardest to give her son the best life she can.
Harry is such a sweetheart, and he really doesn't know it!
I love the way their relationship develops, but Harry's connection with little Max is possibly one of the cutest! Though it isn't made much of, seeing two people with similar social anxieties and interests come together is wonderful. I only wish they had met sooner!
Hearing updates on the other characters, such as Mr B, his wonderful ladyfriend, and even Jo from the last book, was lovely. As I mentioned earlier, it's like visiting friends.
It is a remarkable story with the community at the heart and a great message about upcycling, along with raising awareness of the difficulties some children have at school when they are neurodiverse.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Aria & Aries for an ARC.
April 14, 2024
Thank you to Netgalley and the tagged publisher for my copy.
I'm reading the third book in The Little Board Game Café #3 series, which introduces us to a list of characters within this community. This book focuses on Harry, Taylor, and Max. I appreciate that Taylor is a single mom and that she shares her struggles with her son, who, from my perspective, appears to be neurodiverse. It's heartwarming to revisit this sweet little café run by Emily, who is so wholesome and kind.
Taylor has given up on her dreams of being a fashion designer and settled for making repairs and alterations from her cramped rented flat since Max's father decided he wasn't cut out for fatherhood. She's desperate to move and would like to transfer Max to a closer school where he wouldn't be bullied as much. However, Max is adamant he doesn't want anything to change.
In addition to Max, we are introduced to Harry, a character with similar tendencies towards routine and a sweet demeanour. However, due to negative experiences with females, he can be hesitant around them.
One day, Taylor mistakenly cuts six inches off a pair of jeans that Harry had asked her to alter by only six centimetres. To make up for her mistake, she upcycles the jeans by adding a tartan flare and pockets. This led her to start an upcycling sewing class above the café and eventually put on a fashion show at the local school to showcase her talents. Taylor hopes that by doing so, she will be able to attract more interesting work than just replacing zips and taking up hems.
This class gets a lot of attention and is packed and then we see some progression between Harry and Taylor although there are some hiccups as well that made me laugh out loud.
I'm reading the third book in The Little Board Game Café #3 series, which introduces us to a list of characters within this community. This book focuses on Harry, Taylor, and Max. I appreciate that Taylor is a single mom and that she shares her struggles with her son, who, from my perspective, appears to be neurodiverse. It's heartwarming to revisit this sweet little café run by Emily, who is so wholesome and kind.
Taylor has given up on her dreams of being a fashion designer and settled for making repairs and alterations from her cramped rented flat since Max's father decided he wasn't cut out for fatherhood. She's desperate to move and would like to transfer Max to a closer school where he wouldn't be bullied as much. However, Max is adamant he doesn't want anything to change.
In addition to Max, we are introduced to Harry, a character with similar tendencies towards routine and a sweet demeanour. However, due to negative experiences with females, he can be hesitant around them.
One day, Taylor mistakenly cuts six inches off a pair of jeans that Harry had asked her to alter by only six centimetres. To make up for her mistake, she upcycles the jeans by adding a tartan flare and pockets. This led her to start an upcycling sewing class above the café and eventually put on a fashion show at the local school to showcase her talents. Taylor hopes that by doing so, she will be able to attract more interesting work than just replacing zips and taking up hems.
This class gets a lot of attention and is packed and then we see some progression between Harry and Taylor although there are some hiccups as well that made me laugh out loud.
June 9, 2024
Taylor is a single mum, strong and independent, working as a seamstress to keep the roof over her son Max's head. Max is challenging, with problems at school, a love of trains and a strong aversion to change. Harry is an accountant - the embodiment of the colour grey - and fond of board games, trains and routines.
A chance meeting in the board game cafe leaves Harry utterly smitten, but does Taylor feel the same way? Meanwhile Taylor has an opportunity of a lifetime to take her career to new heights. She has Max to think of, and doesn't have time for romance. Or does she?
I thoroughly enjoyed this. It's a happy, wholesome book that includes neurodivergent representation - both Max and Harry are on the same wavelength -, a strong community supporting one another and a delightful slow-burn, relationship building, romance. It has board games, it has sewing, a sleazy villain, and made-for-tv style happy ever after.
For those wanting spicy scenes, this is a complete fade-to-black closed door, kissing only book.
I loved this book. This is book 3 in the Board Game Cafe series, but it works well as a standalone story. I hadn't read the previous two books in the series, so I'm going to add them to my TBR .
~Many thanks to Netgalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review~
A chance meeting in the board game cafe leaves Harry utterly smitten, but does Taylor feel the same way? Meanwhile Taylor has an opportunity of a lifetime to take her career to new heights. She has Max to think of, and doesn't have time for romance. Or does she?
I thoroughly enjoyed this. It's a happy, wholesome book that includes neurodivergent representation - both Max and Harry are on the same wavelength -, a strong community supporting one another and a delightful slow-burn, relationship building, romance. It has board games, it has sewing, a sleazy villain, and made-for-tv style happy ever after.
For those wanting spicy scenes, this is a complete fade-to-black closed door, kissing only book.
I loved this book. This is book 3 in the Board Game Cafe series, but it works well as a standalone story. I hadn't read the previous two books in the series, so I'm going to add them to my TBR .
~Many thanks to Netgalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review~
June 13, 2024
I seem to be on a roll for books that I’m loving. Second Chances at the Board Game Cafe was so lovely and cute, from beginning to end. All the characters were brilliant and the author highlights how even the most unusual and let’s face it, what a lot of people would consider boring, hobbies, can be fun and engaging if you find like-minded people to enjoy them with. Harry is brilliant, he loves trains and board games and dull coloured clothes, but when he meets the right people, he is far from boring. Taylor has had some difficult times in her life but always has the best interests of her son at heart and picks herself up, time after time. Her son loves trains and board games too, so when the three of them find each other, it’s a proper little meet-cute.
I love the idea of a cafe where you can go and meet other people who enjoy the same things as you, and while away a few hours. As I was writing this review I googled whether board game cafes were an actual thing, and guess what? They actually are. There is even one about half an hour from me. I’ll probably never go. Nevertheless, I love the idea.
If you like cute, funny, romance-type books, grab a copy of Jennifer's new book. It’s the third in the series, but I didn’t know this and it really doesn’t matter if you haven’t read the others.
Thank you to Aria and Rachel’s Random Resources for the opportunity to read and review Second Chances at the Board Game Cafe by Jennifer Page.
I love the idea of a cafe where you can go and meet other people who enjoy the same things as you, and while away a few hours. As I was writing this review I googled whether board game cafes were an actual thing, and guess what? They actually are. There is even one about half an hour from me. I’ll probably never go. Nevertheless, I love the idea.
If you like cute, funny, romance-type books, grab a copy of Jennifer's new book. It’s the third in the series, but I didn’t know this and it really doesn’t matter if you haven’t read the others.
Thank you to Aria and Rachel’s Random Resources for the opportunity to read and review Second Chances at the Board Game Cafe by Jennifer Page.
June 14, 2024
I would firstly just like to say a big thank you to Rachel’s Random Resources who very kindly forwarded me an arc copy of this book, for my kindle, in return for my honest review…
This is the next warm and uplifting instalment from The Little Board Game Café series. It is a second chance romance trope and is such a wonderful, warm and cosy read…
I absolutely love this series of books and i read this one really quickly as i just couldn’t stop turning the pages to find out what was going to happen!!
I really warmed to all the characters and found them to be very real and down-to-earth and just like a group of old friends…
This book was such a good read, it was heartwarming, romantic, with a great sense of community and i thoroughly enjoyed it…..
This is the next warm and uplifting instalment from The Little Board Game Café series. It is a second chance romance trope and is such a wonderful, warm and cosy read…
I absolutely love this series of books and i read this one really quickly as i just couldn’t stop turning the pages to find out what was going to happen!!
I really warmed to all the characters and found them to be very real and down-to-earth and just like a group of old friends…
This book was such a good read, it was heartwarming, romantic, with a great sense of community and i thoroughly enjoyed it…..
July 27, 2025
5 stars
BY FAR my favourite in the series, the characters were all so well written, I loved the inclusive message, and it NOT BEING THE MAIN FEATURE!!! Every book with any semblance of queer undertones turns it into the main point of the book and I loved this just being there. (not a major plot point, its honestly barely mentioned)
I was kicking my feet and squealing at the cute moments between Harry and Taylor, and the way Harry and Max interacted!!!!
My only like minor (like tinsy tiny) issue was that the 2 autistic characters liked trains. But this was because Harry was introduced in book 1, as a train fan, so I didn't hate it.
Honestly read the whole series just to read this one, its amazing.
BY FAR my favourite in the series, the characters were all so well written, I loved the inclusive message, and it NOT BEING THE MAIN FEATURE!!! Every book with any semblance of queer undertones turns it into the main point of the book and I loved this just being there. (not a major plot point, its honestly barely mentioned)
I was kicking my feet and squealing at the cute moments between Harry and Taylor, and the way Harry and Max interacted!!!!
My only like minor (like tinsy tiny) issue was that the 2 autistic characters liked trains. But this was because Harry was introduced in book 1, as a train fan, so I didn't hate it.
Honestly read the whole series just to read this one, its amazing.
April 13, 2024
Brilliant. And I don’t say this lightly. An intriguing tale overcoming adversity whilst navigating a child with additional needs, a business, a fledgling romance and a collapsed house.
A good lesson in Upcycling, it leads into a tale of romance with a happy ending.
A good lesson in Upcycling, it leads into a tale of romance with a happy ending.
October 12, 2025
1.5 ⭐
This book didn’t offer much — the plot felt thin, the characters flat, it just wasn’t a book I enjoyed.
This book didn’t offer much — the plot felt thin, the characters flat, it just wasn’t a book I enjoyed.
May 21, 2025
pleasant but a bit boring
July 11, 2024
I absolutely really enjoyed this series, looming foward to my christmas visit.
June 3, 2025
absolutely adored this one it’s so cute
July 26, 2024
I don’t know how she does it but for the third time Jennifer Page has had me falling hook, line and sinker for a pastime/hobby that I would have thought it totally not for someone like me. She has this unique ability of turning the most mundane of subjects into something fascinating and completely engrossing from start to finish. This time around in Second Chances at the Board Game Café it’s sewing and trainspotting that is the focus and once again I was completely enamoured with everything right from the very first word. It’s rare these days that I have the ability to sit down and read a book in one or two sittings as my attention span has deserted me. But all that changed with this book and in two sittings I was done and dusted with this wonderful book but truthfully I could have kept reading on. I didn’t want it to end at all and was gutted to reach the final page and leave such fabulous characters and their stories behind.
Taylor Sweet is a single mum to eight year old Max ever since her ex decided that being a Dad wasn’t for him and he walked out leaving Taylor high and dry. Taylor hadn’t planned on falling pregnant so young and although she loves Max deeply she wishes that she had been able to pursue her dreams and become a fashion designer. But going to college wasn’t something she could so. Instead, she is stuck sewing buttons, replacing zips, shortening trousers and taking hems up when really she is itching to get creative and design outfits. She was the one who had made the Scrabble dress from the previous book and the weeble dress and it was so lovely to see such a heart-warming to see that connection emerging early on.
Taylor is someone who expresses herself by what she wears. It’s her way of telling the world who she was and what mood she as in. But Taylor is stuck in a rut and bored to death of the same old routine day in and day out. It doesn’t help that Max likes things to be in order and is averse to any sort of change to his life routine. No changes big or small can be made but little does Max know that there are a lot of changes just coming around the corner both for himself and Taylor and I was eager to see what would come for them. It as obvious from the beginning that Max was neuro diverse but it’s never explicitly stated and it didn’t need to be. His character and that of Harry were brilliantly written without needing to elicit major sympathy from the reader. The similarities between the pair were there for all to see and it only added to my enjoyment of the story because it was just so wonderfully and sensitively woven into the plot.
Taylor longs to escape from her small cramped flat where she has to pack away her bedding every day in order to get going on her sewing work but she fears Max’s reaction if she suddenly announces that they are moving from the village of Essendale. She comes across a flat for rent in the neighbouring village of Hebbleswick and here is where she meets estate agent Tarquin. Ah I thought Tarquin rears his ugly head again. I love spotting characters from the previous books and there are many here again. They play a much more prominent role than they have done since book one and I was delighted to see this. But new readers needn’t worry that they won’t be able to follow along you will do so very easily. Taylor bites the bullet and moves to the new flat which was once a shop although conditions aren’t the best. Taylor was such a fantastic character. She was strong, fierce and independent and didn’t take help from anyone unless strictly necessary. Which in itself can be a good or bad thing as she will learn later on. She attempts to get more sewing business but really designing is where her heart lies. As well as her business worries she also has to deal with the fact that Max is being mercilessly bullied at school and refuses to move. She feels a failure as a mother as she doesn’t know how best to support and help Max.
As for the main male character Harry, well all I can say is what an utter sweetheart he is. Most definitely the best male character in the series so far. Not to take away from Ludek or Ras but gosh Harry you stole a piece of my heart and as Taylor compares him to Patrick from The Great British Sewing Bee that really wouldn’t be hard. Similar to Max, Harry likes order and routine having a particular shirt for a certain day, making the same sandwiches daily for lunch and his greatest obsession/love is trains, train board games and train spotting. Harry overthinks everything down to the last detail and he tries to be funny but more often than not he comes across as being weird or nerdy. He is a stickler for following the rules in life and in board games but he does enjoy the times spent in the board game café with his very small group of friends. Harry came across as being shy, reticent, nervous and very self conscious. To say he is awkward and not blessed with the best of social skills would be an understatement but there was something very endearing about him that you just wanted to give him a hug and say everything will be all right.
Harry has been burnt in the past when it comes to love and he questions whether there is anyone out there who will love him the way he wants and deserves to be? Harry has spent his life trying to help other people to make them like him and to be honest he came across as being lost and needing guidance and direction. He makes so many blunders in his advances towards Taylor that you do find yourself cringing for him at certain points. But Taylor also I felt led him on in some ways when she knew that if she had a boyfriend that Max wouldn’t react very well to the change. Yet at the same time I thought oh just go for it Taylor, if you are happy than Max will be happy. Sometimes, you have to put yourself before others even if it was your son making you so hesitant. The more the story developed the more I was rooting for the pair to get together. They do say opposites attract and they couldn’t have been any more different from each other.
There are numerous funny situations that occur. The incident with the stuck zip being one of them and they all help move the plot along at a lovely gentle pace. These funny moments are balanced nicely with some more serious moments but it all worked so well together .I loved the sense of community and the friendship bonds that appeared the more I delved into the story. Familar faces appear once again and they all work together to try and make Taylor’s dreams come true. Who would have thought upcycling fashion would be so interesting and that it would allow Harry to come out of his shell? The way everything developed and the link to the title was just so wholesome and apt. It showed all the characters growing in confidence. The community rallying around Taylor for reasons I won’t go into was just superb and really will give you that warm and satisfying feeling inside.
No doubt about it Jennifer Page is fast becoming an author where I just know that I’ll never tire of reading her work. My only complaint though is that I wish the books came as quickly as I read this one. Trust me if you start with this one you’ll find yourself seeking out the other instalments and if you have been with the board game café since book one you’ll be dying to get your hands on the next book in the series. That ending was just pure perfection and will bring a tear to your eye and a smile to your face that’s for sure. I found myself thinking towards the end why hasn’t Kate gotten a book of her own? After all, it’s emerging that she is a stalwart and a force to be reckoned with and someone who has been the glue and inspiration for all three female heroines so far. So I was utterly delighted to discover that the next instalment, Christmas at the Board Game Café, will focus on Kate. I’ve read the blurb and it’s sounds like we are in for a real festive treat as the concept sounds so unique and original not to mention fun. In the meantime, do yourself a favour and make sure you read all three books published so far in the series. They are an utter delight which reminded me just how much I love reading and my spark for women’s fiction has been reignited. It’s so obvious that Jennifer Page is loving writing about these characters and the setting and I hope she goes on to write many many more. I for one will be there eager to read them all as she never disappoints and it’s a big thumbs up from me.
Taylor Sweet is a single mum to eight year old Max ever since her ex decided that being a Dad wasn’t for him and he walked out leaving Taylor high and dry. Taylor hadn’t planned on falling pregnant so young and although she loves Max deeply she wishes that she had been able to pursue her dreams and become a fashion designer. But going to college wasn’t something she could so. Instead, she is stuck sewing buttons, replacing zips, shortening trousers and taking hems up when really she is itching to get creative and design outfits. She was the one who had made the Scrabble dress from the previous book and the weeble dress and it was so lovely to see such a heart-warming to see that connection emerging early on.
Taylor is someone who expresses herself by what she wears. It’s her way of telling the world who she was and what mood she as in. But Taylor is stuck in a rut and bored to death of the same old routine day in and day out. It doesn’t help that Max likes things to be in order and is averse to any sort of change to his life routine. No changes big or small can be made but little does Max know that there are a lot of changes just coming around the corner both for himself and Taylor and I was eager to see what would come for them. It as obvious from the beginning that Max was neuro diverse but it’s never explicitly stated and it didn’t need to be. His character and that of Harry were brilliantly written without needing to elicit major sympathy from the reader. The similarities between the pair were there for all to see and it only added to my enjoyment of the story because it was just so wonderfully and sensitively woven into the plot.
Taylor longs to escape from her small cramped flat where she has to pack away her bedding every day in order to get going on her sewing work but she fears Max’s reaction if she suddenly announces that they are moving from the village of Essendale. She comes across a flat for rent in the neighbouring village of Hebbleswick and here is where she meets estate agent Tarquin. Ah I thought Tarquin rears his ugly head again. I love spotting characters from the previous books and there are many here again. They play a much more prominent role than they have done since book one and I was delighted to see this. But new readers needn’t worry that they won’t be able to follow along you will do so very easily. Taylor bites the bullet and moves to the new flat which was once a shop although conditions aren’t the best. Taylor was such a fantastic character. She was strong, fierce and independent and didn’t take help from anyone unless strictly necessary. Which in itself can be a good or bad thing as she will learn later on. She attempts to get more sewing business but really designing is where her heart lies. As well as her business worries she also has to deal with the fact that Max is being mercilessly bullied at school and refuses to move. She feels a failure as a mother as she doesn’t know how best to support and help Max.
As for the main male character Harry, well all I can say is what an utter sweetheart he is. Most definitely the best male character in the series so far. Not to take away from Ludek or Ras but gosh Harry you stole a piece of my heart and as Taylor compares him to Patrick from The Great British Sewing Bee that really wouldn’t be hard. Similar to Max, Harry likes order and routine having a particular shirt for a certain day, making the same sandwiches daily for lunch and his greatest obsession/love is trains, train board games and train spotting. Harry overthinks everything down to the last detail and he tries to be funny but more often than not he comes across as being weird or nerdy. He is a stickler for following the rules in life and in board games but he does enjoy the times spent in the board game café with his very small group of friends. Harry came across as being shy, reticent, nervous and very self conscious. To say he is awkward and not blessed with the best of social skills would be an understatement but there was something very endearing about him that you just wanted to give him a hug and say everything will be all right.
Harry has been burnt in the past when it comes to love and he questions whether there is anyone out there who will love him the way he wants and deserves to be? Harry has spent his life trying to help other people to make them like him and to be honest he came across as being lost and needing guidance and direction. He makes so many blunders in his advances towards Taylor that you do find yourself cringing for him at certain points. But Taylor also I felt led him on in some ways when she knew that if she had a boyfriend that Max wouldn’t react very well to the change. Yet at the same time I thought oh just go for it Taylor, if you are happy than Max will be happy. Sometimes, you have to put yourself before others even if it was your son making you so hesitant. The more the story developed the more I was rooting for the pair to get together. They do say opposites attract and they couldn’t have been any more different from each other.
There are numerous funny situations that occur. The incident with the stuck zip being one of them and they all help move the plot along at a lovely gentle pace. These funny moments are balanced nicely with some more serious moments but it all worked so well together .I loved the sense of community and the friendship bonds that appeared the more I delved into the story. Familar faces appear once again and they all work together to try and make Taylor’s dreams come true. Who would have thought upcycling fashion would be so interesting and that it would allow Harry to come out of his shell? The way everything developed and the link to the title was just so wholesome and apt. It showed all the characters growing in confidence. The community rallying around Taylor for reasons I won’t go into was just superb and really will give you that warm and satisfying feeling inside.
No doubt about it Jennifer Page is fast becoming an author where I just know that I’ll never tire of reading her work. My only complaint though is that I wish the books came as quickly as I read this one. Trust me if you start with this one you’ll find yourself seeking out the other instalments and if you have been with the board game café since book one you’ll be dying to get your hands on the next book in the series. That ending was just pure perfection and will bring a tear to your eye and a smile to your face that’s for sure. I found myself thinking towards the end why hasn’t Kate gotten a book of her own? After all, it’s emerging that she is a stalwart and a force to be reckoned with and someone who has been the glue and inspiration for all three female heroines so far. So I was utterly delighted to discover that the next instalment, Christmas at the Board Game Café, will focus on Kate. I’ve read the blurb and it’s sounds like we are in for a real festive treat as the concept sounds so unique and original not to mention fun. In the meantime, do yourself a favour and make sure you read all three books published so far in the series. They are an utter delight which reminded me just how much I love reading and my spark for women’s fiction has been reignited. It’s so obvious that Jennifer Page is loving writing about these characters and the setting and I hope she goes on to write many many more. I for one will be there eager to read them all as she never disappoints and it’s a big thumbs up from me.
June 12, 2024
This is the third book in the series. They don't need to be read first, but it's nice to.
Taylor is a sewist/tailor and an up-and-coming fashion re-designer.
Her son Max is a sweet, unique 8-year-old boy who has set routines and likes and dislikes.
Harry has set routines and loves trains and is the sweetest, gentlest man.
I loved seeing their inner dialogues and getting to know them. Their beliefs about each other, due to their own insecurities, made them likeable and relatable.
Tarquin, the real estate agent. The character I love to hate (he was featured in love letters on Hazel lane) was so icky and smooth talking.
I loved the descriptions of the re-designs, and Taylor discovering a brave side, and Max and Harry being so selfless. The character's development and growth were fantastic. And some 'scenes' had me laughing out loud!
I can't get enough of this series!
Taylor is a sewist/tailor and an up-and-coming fashion re-designer.
Her son Max is a sweet, unique 8-year-old boy who has set routines and likes and dislikes.
Harry has set routines and loves trains and is the sweetest, gentlest man.
I loved seeing their inner dialogues and getting to know them. Their beliefs about each other, due to their own insecurities, made them likeable and relatable.
Tarquin, the real estate agent. The character I love to hate (he was featured in love letters on Hazel lane) was so icky and smooth talking.
I loved the descriptions of the re-designs, and Taylor discovering a brave side, and Max and Harry being so selfless. The character's development and growth were fantastic. And some 'scenes' had me laughing out loud!
I can't get enough of this series!
June 5, 2024
I absolutely loved reading this revisit to The Board Game Cafe.
It was so lovely to go back to this cosy little town. It has a really lovely community feel and coming back to it each time feels like a big hug.
I am still to try some of the board games mentioned in this book, but I will. I love scrabble which is the reason the first book appealed to me so much along with it's beautiful cover.
I love the romance in this book, it's a bit of a will they, won't they situation and I am here for it. I like a touch of drama and I thought this was really well thought out and perfectly approached throughout.
I am absolutely honoured to be mentioned in the Acknowledgments, thank you so much Jennifer. It's been an absolute pleasure supporting your writing and promoting your beautifully written books.
It was so lovely to go back to this cosy little town. It has a really lovely community feel and coming back to it each time feels like a big hug.
I am still to try some of the board games mentioned in this book, but I will. I love scrabble which is the reason the first book appealed to me so much along with it's beautiful cover.
I love the romance in this book, it's a bit of a will they, won't they situation and I am here for it. I like a touch of drama and I thought this was really well thought out and perfectly approached throughout.
I am absolutely honoured to be mentioned in the Acknowledgments, thank you so much Jennifer. It's been an absolute pleasure supporting your writing and promoting your beautifully written books.
August 3, 2024
Single mum Taylor is struggling to keep her head above water in a tiny one-bed flat, in the little Yorkshire village of Hebbleswick. She once dreamed of becoming a fashion designer, but now spends her days repairing and altering other people's garments, fitting her business around her eight-year-old son Max's need for routine.
Accountant and railway enthusiast, Harry, likes routine too. He longs for a partner, but has had his heart broken in the past and is anxious about letting someone new into his ordered life, despite the encouragement of his friends at the local board game café.
When Taylor and Harry meet there is an immediate spark between them, but both are unsure about embarking on a new romance. Can Harry step out of his comfort zone, and Taylor look beyond her worries about Max, to give love a second chance?
Welcome back to the picturesque environs of Hebbleswisk and Essendale, for the third book in the enchanting Little Board Game Café series by Jennifer Page.
This time around Page does a lovely job of mixing everything that has come before with the arrival of new characters Taylor and her son Max, crafting a story that sets up lashing of romantic suspense with train obsessed Harry, who we met in the first book in the series. There are familiar faces galore from the first two books, and although you do not need to have read them to enjoy this story, I highly recommend that you do as it adds so much context and emotional texture to what happens.
Taylor finds herself in an unhappy place at the beginning of this book, worrying about her living arrangements, her sewing business, and the needs of her son Max, who is neurodivergent. Her dreams of a different kind of life are never far from her thoughts, but try as she might there are always obstacles in the way, and there is no time for a romantic life for herself. Cue the sweet, and truly adorable, Harry whose caring, routine loving, railway-addicted, and mathematically precise lifestyle make him the perfect partner for Taylor and prospective new dad for Max - if only they can both overcome their lack of confidence and past heartbreak.
Inevitably, the course of true love does not run smooth in all the ways you want from a cosy love story, and Page keeps you on tenterhooks with a will-they-won't-they plot that will completely melt your heart. Along the way she brings in some wonderful themes, using her established characters to throw spanners in the works (sleazy Tarquin, I am looking at you) or pull out all the stops to guide the couple to their happy ending, via make-and-mend fashion shows, budding friendships, and a pulling together of the community - with a little bit of help from The Railway Children!
This book positively celebrates neurodivergence, and touches sensitively on a wealth of subjects about acceptance, belonging, and being yourself, that fit beautifully into the story. Various board games are a fascinating central feature once more, and Page also brings in lots of splendid stuff about upcycling clothes to combat fast-fashion that will set the creative among you dusting off your sewing machines.
This is the perfect snuggle up on the sofa book. I think Taylor and Harry's romance is my favourite one of the series so far, and Max's channelling of The Railway Children to bring them together is simply magical!
Accountant and railway enthusiast, Harry, likes routine too. He longs for a partner, but has had his heart broken in the past and is anxious about letting someone new into his ordered life, despite the encouragement of his friends at the local board game café.
When Taylor and Harry meet there is an immediate spark between them, but both are unsure about embarking on a new romance. Can Harry step out of his comfort zone, and Taylor look beyond her worries about Max, to give love a second chance?
Welcome back to the picturesque environs of Hebbleswisk and Essendale, for the third book in the enchanting Little Board Game Café series by Jennifer Page.
This time around Page does a lovely job of mixing everything that has come before with the arrival of new characters Taylor and her son Max, crafting a story that sets up lashing of romantic suspense with train obsessed Harry, who we met in the first book in the series. There are familiar faces galore from the first two books, and although you do not need to have read them to enjoy this story, I highly recommend that you do as it adds so much context and emotional texture to what happens.
Taylor finds herself in an unhappy place at the beginning of this book, worrying about her living arrangements, her sewing business, and the needs of her son Max, who is neurodivergent. Her dreams of a different kind of life are never far from her thoughts, but try as she might there are always obstacles in the way, and there is no time for a romantic life for herself. Cue the sweet, and truly adorable, Harry whose caring, routine loving, railway-addicted, and mathematically precise lifestyle make him the perfect partner for Taylor and prospective new dad for Max - if only they can both overcome their lack of confidence and past heartbreak.
Inevitably, the course of true love does not run smooth in all the ways you want from a cosy love story, and Page keeps you on tenterhooks with a will-they-won't-they plot that will completely melt your heart. Along the way she brings in some wonderful themes, using her established characters to throw spanners in the works (sleazy Tarquin, I am looking at you) or pull out all the stops to guide the couple to their happy ending, via make-and-mend fashion shows, budding friendships, and a pulling together of the community - with a little bit of help from The Railway Children!
This book positively celebrates neurodivergence, and touches sensitively on a wealth of subjects about acceptance, belonging, and being yourself, that fit beautifully into the story. Various board games are a fascinating central feature once more, and Page also brings in lots of splendid stuff about upcycling clothes to combat fast-fashion that will set the creative among you dusting off your sewing machines.
This is the perfect snuggle up on the sofa book. I think Taylor and Harry's romance is my favourite one of the series so far, and Max's channelling of The Railway Children to bring them together is simply magical!
May 22, 2024
Second Chances At The Board Game Café by Jennifer Page is the most charming, contemporary read that warmed my heart.
Just once in a while, a book comes along that as soon as you start it, you just know that it is going to wrap around you like a warm blanket, leaving you feeling loved – Second Chances At The Board Game Café is one such book.
Everything between the pages delighted me. I chose to read the book because it is set in Yorkshire – my favourite place in the whole world. I thought that it could not get any better – but it did! Not only set in Yorkshire but the 1970 film The Railway Children, one of my favourite films, was continually referenced. And then to top it all off, Haworth, my favourite place to visit, was mentioned. This book was just made for me!
Second Chances At The Board Game Café is a book to savor, to keep, and to prompt you to buy the other two books in the series! I just cannot get enough of this book! I certainly hope there will be many more in the series.
All the characters were delightfully drawn and easy to empathise with. Max, who was in year four, brought out my mothering instincts. He has autism. Jennifer Page has perfectly captured Max with his mannerisms, fears and dislike of change. Likewise, leading character Harry also has autistic traits. Despite their age difference, Max and Harry understand and support each other as they navigate life.
Single Mum, Taylor, lives for her son. She puts Max first in every situation. Taylor is easy to empathise with, as she navigates the school gates and altercations with teachers who fail to understand Max. We also witness how vulnerable she is to an unscrupulous letting agent and how she steers through life in a new town.
Both Harry and Taylor are lacking in confidence. They both believe that neither could possibly like the other as more than a friend. Misunderstandings arise, making them both miserable.
Harry believes that people will like him if he does things for them. “You don’t have to go around helping people for them to like you … We like you because we like you.” Insecurity in characters is heartbreaking to see.
All the residents are community minded. They support local businesses rather than huge chains.
The Board Game Café is at the heart of the town – whether you want coffee, cake, playing a board game or learning to sew. The café provides all this and more. It offers support to those who enter its’ doors.
We learn the importance of upcycling. Why throw clothes away when you can alter them and add new life to old clothes?
A character has been so self-reliant that she hates to accept help from others. “It’s okay to accept help once in a while.” Life has not always been kind to her in the past but here, the community practices the spirit of generosity.
I absolutely adored Second Chances At The Board Game Café. It is a book that I shall be reading again and again. It is positively delightful.
I received a free copy via Rachel’s Random Resources for a blog tour. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
Just once in a while, a book comes along that as soon as you start it, you just know that it is going to wrap around you like a warm blanket, leaving you feeling loved – Second Chances At The Board Game Café is one such book.
Everything between the pages delighted me. I chose to read the book because it is set in Yorkshire – my favourite place in the whole world. I thought that it could not get any better – but it did! Not only set in Yorkshire but the 1970 film The Railway Children, one of my favourite films, was continually referenced. And then to top it all off, Haworth, my favourite place to visit, was mentioned. This book was just made for me!
Second Chances At The Board Game Café is a book to savor, to keep, and to prompt you to buy the other two books in the series! I just cannot get enough of this book! I certainly hope there will be many more in the series.
All the characters were delightfully drawn and easy to empathise with. Max, who was in year four, brought out my mothering instincts. He has autism. Jennifer Page has perfectly captured Max with his mannerisms, fears and dislike of change. Likewise, leading character Harry also has autistic traits. Despite their age difference, Max and Harry understand and support each other as they navigate life.
Single Mum, Taylor, lives for her son. She puts Max first in every situation. Taylor is easy to empathise with, as she navigates the school gates and altercations with teachers who fail to understand Max. We also witness how vulnerable she is to an unscrupulous letting agent and how she steers through life in a new town.
Both Harry and Taylor are lacking in confidence. They both believe that neither could possibly like the other as more than a friend. Misunderstandings arise, making them both miserable.
Harry believes that people will like him if he does things for them. “You don’t have to go around helping people for them to like you … We like you because we like you.” Insecurity in characters is heartbreaking to see.
All the residents are community minded. They support local businesses rather than huge chains.
The Board Game Café is at the heart of the town – whether you want coffee, cake, playing a board game or learning to sew. The café provides all this and more. It offers support to those who enter its’ doors.
We learn the importance of upcycling. Why throw clothes away when you can alter them and add new life to old clothes?
A character has been so self-reliant that she hates to accept help from others. “It’s okay to accept help once in a while.” Life has not always been kind to her in the past but here, the community practices the spirit of generosity.
I absolutely adored Second Chances At The Board Game Café. It is a book that I shall be reading again and again. It is positively delightful.
I received a free copy via Rachel’s Random Resources for a blog tour. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
June 15, 2024
Remember the Scrabble pinafore dress in the first book – and the one with the weebles in the second? They were the only dresses that seamstress/sewist Taylor has ever been commissioned to make from scratch – she dreams of seeing her designs on a catwalk, but all the work that comes her way is mending, shortening and broken zips that need replacing. She’s also trying to be the best mother she can be to young Max – finding life difficult at times, unhappy at school but fearful of change, struggling when he comes across anything new and different.
And then there’s Harry – he finds life a challenge at times too. He’s an accountant, dresses very conventionally in muted colours, and loves trains and board games. And he really wishes he could get to know Taylor rather better – but doubts she’d ever be interested in someone boring like him. But he has a heart of gold, and is only too happy to help her out – despite her reluctance to accept it – when her new home starts falling apart around her (he’s really such a lovely man!). Goodness, he’ll even try his hand at some clothes upcycling if it means the chance to send more time with her. The attraction is mutual, but her son might be an obstacle to any possibility of them growing closer – but Harry and Max have more in common than they realise at first, and the barriers might just not be as difficult to overcome as they expect.
The author writes so beautifully – a lovely touch with the emotional content, and two very real individuals who entirely win your heart as the story unfolds from both their perspectives. And then there’s the wider community – with wonderful characters who’ll already be friends if you read and enjoyed the first two books, but who you’ll enjoy sending time with just as much if this is your first visit to Hebbleswick and Essendale. There’s a major project at the book’s heart, drama at times, a villain who casts a shadow, and plenty of setbacks and challenges along the way – but the whole book is filled with warmth and love and kindness, with friendship and support found in unexpected places, and more than a sprinkling of sheer joy. Just gorgeous – this book should be on everyone’s summer reading list.
And then there’s Harry – he finds life a challenge at times too. He’s an accountant, dresses very conventionally in muted colours, and loves trains and board games. And he really wishes he could get to know Taylor rather better – but doubts she’d ever be interested in someone boring like him. But he has a heart of gold, and is only too happy to help her out – despite her reluctance to accept it – when her new home starts falling apart around her (he’s really such a lovely man!). Goodness, he’ll even try his hand at some clothes upcycling if it means the chance to send more time with her. The attraction is mutual, but her son might be an obstacle to any possibility of them growing closer – but Harry and Max have more in common than they realise at first, and the barriers might just not be as difficult to overcome as they expect.
The author writes so beautifully – a lovely touch with the emotional content, and two very real individuals who entirely win your heart as the story unfolds from both their perspectives. And then there’s the wider community – with wonderful characters who’ll already be friends if you read and enjoyed the first two books, but who you’ll enjoy sending time with just as much if this is your first visit to Hebbleswick and Essendale. There’s a major project at the book’s heart, drama at times, a villain who casts a shadow, and plenty of setbacks and challenges along the way – but the whole book is filled with warmth and love and kindness, with friendship and support found in unexpected places, and more than a sprinkling of sheer joy. Just gorgeous – this book should be on everyone’s summer reading list.
June 16, 2024
Having first visited the Board Game Cafe in Hebbleswick in book two {Love Letters on Hazel Lane} I was delighted to be back there again in this, the third book in the The Little Board Game Café Series.
What one might describe as a refreshingly wholesome read. Stepping foot back in Hebbleswick was a bit like visiting home after not having visited for a while and I immediately popped into the cafe where I met villagers, single mum, Taylor, her son, Max who though he isn't specifically mentioned as being neurodivergent seemed to be so to me and, {possibly my favourite character} the adorable Harry who, equally socially awkward, I felt to be neurodivergent as well.
Chock-a-block full of wonderful characters, some of whom I had met previously {as a sequel, characters/events from the previous books do crop up from time to time, however this doesn't distract from this, the latest instalment, which reads perfectly well as a standalone novel}, some of whom were new.
I loved getting to know Taylor, Max and Harry, being party to their inner dialogues; learning of their insecurities; watching as the romance between Taylor and Harry developed; of how the bond between the three and especially that of Harry and Max grew. And then of course, there was the baddie I loved to hate, Tarquin, the estate agent, who had featured in Love Letters on Hazel Lane, who was every bit as smooth talking and, well, ick as I remembered him.
Not having read book one in the series {The Little Board Game Cafe} I can't comment on that, but this is every bit as enjoyable as book two ... and even better.
If your wanting a feel good, small community read with a sweet, fairly chaste romance, an upcycling theme, scenes that will have you chuckling and references to The Railway Children {written by Edith Nesbit and one of my favourite films of all time} you could do a lot worse than immerse yourself in this delightful read.
Copyright ... Felicity Grace Terry @ Pen and Paper
Disclaimer ... One of several bloggers participating in the Blog Tour of this book. Agree or disagree with me, all opinions are my own. No financial compensation was asked for nor given. Threats of violence towards my favourite teddy bear went unheeded as did promises of chocolate.
What one might describe as a refreshingly wholesome read. Stepping foot back in Hebbleswick was a bit like visiting home after not having visited for a while and I immediately popped into the cafe where I met villagers, single mum, Taylor, her son, Max who though he isn't specifically mentioned as being neurodivergent seemed to be so to me and, {possibly my favourite character} the adorable Harry who, equally socially awkward, I felt to be neurodivergent as well.
Chock-a-block full of wonderful characters, some of whom I had met previously {as a sequel, characters/events from the previous books do crop up from time to time, however this doesn't distract from this, the latest instalment, which reads perfectly well as a standalone novel}, some of whom were new.
I loved getting to know Taylor, Max and Harry, being party to their inner dialogues; learning of their insecurities; watching as the romance between Taylor and Harry developed; of how the bond between the three and especially that of Harry and Max grew. And then of course, there was the baddie I loved to hate, Tarquin, the estate agent, who had featured in Love Letters on Hazel Lane, who was every bit as smooth talking and, well, ick as I remembered him.
Not having read book one in the series {The Little Board Game Cafe} I can't comment on that, but this is every bit as enjoyable as book two ... and even better.
If your wanting a feel good, small community read with a sweet, fairly chaste romance, an upcycling theme, scenes that will have you chuckling and references to The Railway Children {written by Edith Nesbit and one of my favourite films of all time} you could do a lot worse than immerse yourself in this delightful read.
Copyright ... Felicity Grace Terry @ Pen and Paper
Disclaimer ... One of several bloggers participating in the Blog Tour of this book. Agree or disagree with me, all opinions are my own. No financial compensation was asked for nor given. Threats of violence towards my favourite teddy bear went unheeded as did promises of chocolate.
June 10, 2024
I absolutely loved revisiting the Little Board Game Cafe and the community. Revisiting the characters from past books and meeting new characters was like visiting old friends and meeting new. I still love the concept of a board game cafe where all ages can play board games and have coffee while having friendly chats and a little fun competition. Would be so much fun to have one around here.
I've found a new favorite series. The series is fun, light and just what I need. I'd recommend it to everyone.
The Yorkshire village of Hebbleswick is single Mom to Max's home. She's dreamed of being a fashion designer for as long as she can remember but without encouragement at home it didn't come about. She's a seamstress now fixing buttons, seams, alterations at times and the occasional more complicated job.
She wants the best for her son Max, but he's not popular at school and seems to be the odd duck out. Poor kid. While talks with the headmistress seem to do nothing, she isn't sure what to do beyond being very frustrated.
Moving house seems like a fabulous idea, she has more room to work with and can set up her sewing in a way to start bringing in a bit more money.
Some funny mishaps had me laughing out loud.
When I saw the trouble, the landlord was giving her and not wanting to do repairs it made me mad, because this is how many landlords are.
A mistaken measurement leads to just what Taylor needs, a friendship with a shy and caring man, Harry. Harry is a railway enthusiast just like Taylor's son is. I love the idea of upcycling clothing; it sounds like so much fun.
Can a possible friendship become more with the busy mom and the man dreaming of fatherhood? I really enjoyed Max's character and am rooting for him and his happiness all the way. I hope to see him in a future book. It would be so neat to see him as a grownup in a future book with his own relationship going and see how far he's come.
Fully recommended!
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
I've found a new favorite series. The series is fun, light and just what I need. I'd recommend it to everyone.
The Yorkshire village of Hebbleswick is single Mom to Max's home. She's dreamed of being a fashion designer for as long as she can remember but without encouragement at home it didn't come about. She's a seamstress now fixing buttons, seams, alterations at times and the occasional more complicated job.
She wants the best for her son Max, but he's not popular at school and seems to be the odd duck out. Poor kid. While talks with the headmistress seem to do nothing, she isn't sure what to do beyond being very frustrated.
Moving house seems like a fabulous idea, she has more room to work with and can set up her sewing in a way to start bringing in a bit more money.
Some funny mishaps had me laughing out loud.
When I saw the trouble, the landlord was giving her and not wanting to do repairs it made me mad, because this is how many landlords are.
A mistaken measurement leads to just what Taylor needs, a friendship with a shy and caring man, Harry. Harry is a railway enthusiast just like Taylor's son is. I love the idea of upcycling clothing; it sounds like so much fun.
Can a possible friendship become more with the busy mom and the man dreaming of fatherhood? I really enjoyed Max's character and am rooting for him and his happiness all the way. I hope to see him in a future book. It would be so neat to see him as a grownup in a future book with his own relationship going and see how far he's come.
Fully recommended!
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
Read
June 20, 2024(Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the copy of this book! All opinions are my own.)
Second Chances at the Board Game Café is a perfectly cozy little summer read. It definitely broke the dull and exhausting routine of exam season for me!
We're returning to the magical and warm Yorkshire of Little Board Game Café fame (hi, Emily and Ludek!), now focusing on Taylor, a single mom whose biggest dream was to become a fashion designer.
We follow her path on the way of accomplishing herself in that area while navigating single-parenthood, and so many changes and obstacles. We're also lulled into the warmth of community and the kindness of people willing to band together and help.
We also meet Harry, a railway enthusiast and a frequent guest of our beloved board game cafe. Taylor and Harry cross paths, and their first encounter - and the measurements mishap - kick off a story of love, changes, misunderstandings, assumptions, insecurities, and self-doubting - and do we get a successful second-chance story?
This heartwarming read isn't just a romance. It's love altogether. It's the love of a mother, the love of community, the passion for dreams and chasing them, and the love for oneself in one's most authentic state.
It's safely predictable, where it won't keep you on the edge of your seat, but rather carefreely tucked under a blanket or, for it is summer, resting under a parasol with a cold drink, enjoying another story full of joy, trying, doubting, and still holding out for hope.
The rating (3.5 stars) on this one is entirely subjective, as I found some things that don't work for me as a reader. I'm gravitating toward some other themes and writing styles more, and though I did enjoy reading this book, I feel like I'm not the targeted audience. That's why the rating is lower, but I wouldn't miss out on this book if you like heartwarming and cute stories set in a small town with lots of joy and good spirits.
Second Chances at the Board Game Café is a perfectly cozy little summer read. It definitely broke the dull and exhausting routine of exam season for me!
We're returning to the magical and warm Yorkshire of Little Board Game Café fame (hi, Emily and Ludek!), now focusing on Taylor, a single mom whose biggest dream was to become a fashion designer.
We follow her path on the way of accomplishing herself in that area while navigating single-parenthood, and so many changes and obstacles. We're also lulled into the warmth of community and the kindness of people willing to band together and help.
We also meet Harry, a railway enthusiast and a frequent guest of our beloved board game cafe. Taylor and Harry cross paths, and their first encounter - and the measurements mishap - kick off a story of love, changes, misunderstandings, assumptions, insecurities, and self-doubting - and do we get a successful second-chance story?
This heartwarming read isn't just a romance. It's love altogether. It's the love of a mother, the love of community, the passion for dreams and chasing them, and the love for oneself in one's most authentic state.
It's safely predictable, where it won't keep you on the edge of your seat, but rather carefreely tucked under a blanket or, for it is summer, resting under a parasol with a cold drink, enjoying another story full of joy, trying, doubting, and still holding out for hope.
The rating (3.5 stars) on this one is entirely subjective, as I found some things that don't work for me as a reader. I'm gravitating toward some other themes and writing styles more, and though I did enjoy reading this book, I feel like I'm not the targeted audience. That's why the rating is lower, but I wouldn't miss out on this book if you like heartwarming and cute stories set in a small town with lots of joy and good spirits.
June 3, 2024
OMG I am totally in love with this book, if I could give it more that 5 stars, I would.
This story was enjoyable from start to finish, was so well written and thought out, not to mention the characters just coming to life as I got to know them all. Plus it was lovely to be reacquainted with some of the previous characters from books one and two, the lovely Emily, Kate and Jo.
One of the things I absolutely loved about this story, was the theme, I am an avid fan of modern board games. My spare time is literally devoted to reading books or playing modern board games. I loved seeing the mention of all the different board games throughout this story and ai even learnt of a couple of new ones that I did not know about. When I read about there being a fan made version of Alice in Wonderland for Ticket to Ride, I was like ‘hey that’s a super cool thing to make up and put in a story, but then I was like, hang on what if it’s actually true’ . So I went straight online and was beyond excited when I discovered that yes there really is a fan made version of Alice in Wonderland for Ticket to Ride, so I’ll definitely be getting that up and running myself. So thanks for that Jennifer.
Anyway back to the story, I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know Taylor, Max and Harry, seeing how they all interacted together and the chemistry between Taylor/Harry growing as the story progressed.
I also loved the overall feel of the communities, how everyone comes together to help each other out. I would love to live in a community like that and become friends with Taylor, Harry, Emily, Kate, Jo, Ludek and all of the others.
I’m very much looking forward to the next book to the series, at least I hope there will be another one. I love reading books that feature board games.
This story was enjoyable from start to finish, was so well written and thought out, not to mention the characters just coming to life as I got to know them all. Plus it was lovely to be reacquainted with some of the previous characters from books one and two, the lovely Emily, Kate and Jo.
One of the things I absolutely loved about this story, was the theme, I am an avid fan of modern board games. My spare time is literally devoted to reading books or playing modern board games. I loved seeing the mention of all the different board games throughout this story and ai even learnt of a couple of new ones that I did not know about. When I read about there being a fan made version of Alice in Wonderland for Ticket to Ride, I was like ‘hey that’s a super cool thing to make up and put in a story, but then I was like, hang on what if it’s actually true’ . So I went straight online and was beyond excited when I discovered that yes there really is a fan made version of Alice in Wonderland for Ticket to Ride, so I’ll definitely be getting that up and running myself. So thanks for that Jennifer.
Anyway back to the story, I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know Taylor, Max and Harry, seeing how they all interacted together and the chemistry between Taylor/Harry growing as the story progressed.
I also loved the overall feel of the communities, how everyone comes together to help each other out. I would love to live in a community like that and become friends with Taylor, Harry, Emily, Kate, Jo, Ludek and all of the others.
I’m very much looking forward to the next book to the series, at least I hope there will be another one. I love reading books that feature board games.
July 15, 2024
Small-town romance fans will be enchanted by the latest charmer by Jennifer Page, Second Chances at the Board Game Café.
Taylor is a single mum living in the cosy Yorkshire village of Hebbleswick with a dream of becoming a fashion designer. However, it looks like her most-cherished ambition will never be fulfilled as looking after her son Max leaves her with next to no time to work on her original designs. Taylor wants to do more than hemming skirts and fixing zips, but will she find the courage to go after what she truly wants? Or will she spend the rest of her life regretting not fighting for what she truly desires?
At the local board game café, railway enthusiast Harry is nursing a broken heart after a painful breakup. Having always wanted to be a father, Harry worries that he will never know the joys of having a family of his own – until a chance encounter with Taylor turns his entire world on its head. Will Harry have the courage to take another chance on a relationship? Or is he not prepared to run the risk of having his heart broken again?
Will Taylor and Max let this chance at happiness slip through their fingers? Or will love find a way to bring these two lost souls together…forever?
Jennifer Page makes her readers swoon with her latest novel, Second Chances at the Board Game Café. A tender, feel-good and uplifting romance about finding happiness, chasing rainbows and the magic of falling in love, Jennifer Page’s Second Chances at the Board Game is sprinkled with warmth, humour and emotion and will leave readers with a massive grin on their face.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Taylor is a single mum living in the cosy Yorkshire village of Hebbleswick with a dream of becoming a fashion designer. However, it looks like her most-cherished ambition will never be fulfilled as looking after her son Max leaves her with next to no time to work on her original designs. Taylor wants to do more than hemming skirts and fixing zips, but will she find the courage to go after what she truly wants? Or will she spend the rest of her life regretting not fighting for what she truly desires?
At the local board game café, railway enthusiast Harry is nursing a broken heart after a painful breakup. Having always wanted to be a father, Harry worries that he will never know the joys of having a family of his own – until a chance encounter with Taylor turns his entire world on its head. Will Harry have the courage to take another chance on a relationship? Or is he not prepared to run the risk of having his heart broken again?
Will Taylor and Max let this chance at happiness slip through their fingers? Or will love find a way to bring these two lost souls together…forever?
Jennifer Page makes her readers swoon with her latest novel, Second Chances at the Board Game Café. A tender, feel-good and uplifting romance about finding happiness, chasing rainbows and the magic of falling in love, Jennifer Page’s Second Chances at the Board Game is sprinkled with warmth, humour and emotion and will leave readers with a massive grin on their face.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 3, 2024
ARC REVIEW - SECOND CHANCES AT THE BOARDGAME CAFE BY JENNIFER PAGE
Genre - Small town romance
Dual pov
I was extremely honoured to be invited to review this by @jenniferpagewrites. I have signed copies of her first two books, The little boardgame cafe and Love letters on Hazel lane so I was very excited to start this one!
This book shows us fiercely independent Taylor, a single mother and seamstress, who gave up her childhood dreams of becoming a fashion designer, to battle through the trials and tribulations of making ends meet on her own.
We also see adorable and people pleasing Harry. With his trainspotting and number crunching quirks, combined with a rather awkward and somewhat shy personality, he simply wants to be liked. Romanced is teased with these two but after a misunderstanding, they need a little help from their friends, Taylors son and a huge dose of community spirit to bring them together.
I love that we see characters from previous books who don't lose their intricately crafted personalities. One of my favourite lines is from Mr B. Taylor apologises for her choice of language after the pair witness a tremendous catastrophe. Mr B says, "no indeed, sh*t seems very appropriate given the circumstances." Which if you knew his gentlemanly and dapper character from previous books, would surely make you chuckle as it did me.
The descriptive writing captures our imagination from the very beginning and the pace doesn't drop for a second. This book is uplifting, heartwarming, the characters are relatable and hugely community spirited. We easily find ourselves yearning for such warmth from strangers who become friends as is portrayed in these books.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ From me and I can't wait for the next one! Thank you Jen for making my Easter weekend all the more beautiful with your marvellous writing ☺️
Genre - Small town romance
Dual pov
I was extremely honoured to be invited to review this by @jenniferpagewrites. I have signed copies of her first two books, The little boardgame cafe and Love letters on Hazel lane so I was very excited to start this one!
This book shows us fiercely independent Taylor, a single mother and seamstress, who gave up her childhood dreams of becoming a fashion designer, to battle through the trials and tribulations of making ends meet on her own.
We also see adorable and people pleasing Harry. With his trainspotting and number crunching quirks, combined with a rather awkward and somewhat shy personality, he simply wants to be liked. Romanced is teased with these two but after a misunderstanding, they need a little help from their friends, Taylors son and a huge dose of community spirit to bring them together.
I love that we see characters from previous books who don't lose their intricately crafted personalities. One of my favourite lines is from Mr B. Taylor apologises for her choice of language after the pair witness a tremendous catastrophe. Mr B says, "no indeed, sh*t seems very appropriate given the circumstances." Which if you knew his gentlemanly and dapper character from previous books, would surely make you chuckle as it did me.
The descriptive writing captures our imagination from the very beginning and the pace doesn't drop for a second. This book is uplifting, heartwarming, the characters are relatable and hugely community spirited. We easily find ourselves yearning for such warmth from strangers who become friends as is portrayed in these books.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ From me and I can't wait for the next one! Thank you Jen for making my Easter weekend all the more beautiful with your marvellous writing ☺️
July 14, 2024
This was like a warm hug of a book and was just the book I needed at the point I started reading it. I had had some upsetting news earlier that day, and after spending a few hours dazed and staring into space, I figured I should start reading a new book - picked this and basically didn't look up for the next few hours while I devoured the first half of the book.
Which I then rapidly finished off the following day. Read in three sittings, in under a day, this was warm, cosy, comforting, and another incredibly good story in this series.
I am loving these Board Game Cafe books, and the villages of Hebbleswick and Essendale. And it was great getting to know Harry, one of the train game playing addicts even better.
And to see the similarities between Harry and Taylor's son Max was really pleasing to see. Less pleasing is how Max is treated at his school by other kids and teachers too.
He is a rather unique child who is totally fabulous, but it's hard for people to get to see it properly. While Taylor is just longing for a bed and not a sofa to sleep on.
She's a talented seamstress and soon gets roped into an upcycling fashion show.
I loved the various board games that were featured in this, especially Ticket to Ride which is a game I particularly enjoy playing.
I also loved we were able to catch up with Emily, Jo and Kate from the previous books too, as well as other recurring characters. I do enjoy a sense of community across a series.
This was a real pleasure to read and I am already looking forward to the next book in the series.
Thank you to Aria and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
Which I then rapidly finished off the following day. Read in three sittings, in under a day, this was warm, cosy, comforting, and another incredibly good story in this series.
I am loving these Board Game Cafe books, and the villages of Hebbleswick and Essendale. And it was great getting to know Harry, one of the train game playing addicts even better.
And to see the similarities between Harry and Taylor's son Max was really pleasing to see. Less pleasing is how Max is treated at his school by other kids and teachers too.
He is a rather unique child who is totally fabulous, but it's hard for people to get to see it properly. While Taylor is just longing for a bed and not a sofa to sleep on.
She's a talented seamstress and soon gets roped into an upcycling fashion show.
I loved the various board games that were featured in this, especially Ticket to Ride which is a game I particularly enjoy playing.
I also loved we were able to catch up with Emily, Jo and Kate from the previous books too, as well as other recurring characters. I do enjoy a sense of community across a series.
This was a real pleasure to read and I am already looking forward to the next book in the series.
Thank you to Aria and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
April 9, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and Aries Fiction for approving this ARC.
This is the 3rd book in The Little Board Game Cafe series. I’ll start off by saying I’ve not read the others in the series.
This was described as “perfect for fans of small-town settings”. I saw that and was SOLD! Nothing beats a good old cosy romance and a bunch of colourful quirky characters.
It’s a short read at 260 pages. Harry is a railway enthusiast and Taylor is a tailor and a single mum. I found the novel struggled with pacing. Quite often there was too much description of what they were doing, almost like info dumping, and could’ve done with editing to make it more short and succinct or more engaging.
At 25% in, I had been introduced to characters in name but none had their personality showing through. It wasn’t until the very end that I begun to connect with some of them. We get to know Max, Taylor’s son, but it takes about 60% into the story before a relationship starts to form between Max and Harry. This was probably my favourite part of the book.
Overall, I liked that the book was realistic and detailed the inner struggles the characters had, they weren’t perfect and were flawed, but it took a long time to endear me to them. It felt like a slog to get through most of the book. The ending was lovely, and I loved the sense of community so it redeemed itself there.
I love contemporary romances and small town settings but this was overall a miss for me as it took too long for me to really enjoy it. I’ve rated it 2.5/5 stars, rounded down.
This is the 3rd book in The Little Board Game Cafe series. I’ll start off by saying I’ve not read the others in the series.
This was described as “perfect for fans of small-town settings”. I saw that and was SOLD! Nothing beats a good old cosy romance and a bunch of colourful quirky characters.
It’s a short read at 260 pages. Harry is a railway enthusiast and Taylor is a tailor and a single mum. I found the novel struggled with pacing. Quite often there was too much description of what they were doing, almost like info dumping, and could’ve done with editing to make it more short and succinct or more engaging.
At 25% in, I had been introduced to characters in name but none had their personality showing through. It wasn’t until the very end that I begun to connect with some of them. We get to know Max, Taylor’s son, but it takes about 60% into the story before a relationship starts to form between Max and Harry. This was probably my favourite part of the book.
Overall, I liked that the book was realistic and detailed the inner struggles the characters had, they weren’t perfect and were flawed, but it took a long time to endear me to them. It felt like a slog to get through most of the book. The ending was lovely, and I loved the sense of community so it redeemed itself there.
I love contemporary romances and small town settings but this was overall a miss for me as it took too long for me to really enjoy it. I’ve rated it 2.5/5 stars, rounded down.
June 4, 2024
This is the third book of the Little Board Game cafe series and the story follows a woman named Taylor Sweet who dreams of becoming a fashion designer but currently does nothing but fixing zippers and worrying about her son Max.
I go an invitation to review this book and here are my thoughts.
I actually liked this one more than the first two book of the series. Taylor Sweet is a struggling single mom, who is struggling to meet the ends meet and I like how the author had made the character more realistic as possible. Then we also meet another character Harry who is a quiet person and who seemed to have had bad experiences with women. By chance Taylor accidentally cuts Henry's jeans by six inches, leading her to upcycle the jeans and her sewing method had become so famous in the small town that orders of upcycling starts flooding towards Taylor, even though she is living in a cramped apartment. Henry meanwhile secretly falls in love with Taylor even though he was a little afraid of showing off his feelings. The story itself is beautifully written and although I am not much of a romance fan, this book was actually good. I enjoyed this book, I thought I really liked the chemistry between Harry and Taylor. I am wondering if there is going to be another book in the series and cannot wait to read the next one. Overall this book worth 4.5 stars.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Aria for the ARC. The review is based on my honest opinion only.
I go an invitation to review this book and here are my thoughts.
I actually liked this one more than the first two book of the series. Taylor Sweet is a struggling single mom, who is struggling to meet the ends meet and I like how the author had made the character more realistic as possible. Then we also meet another character Harry who is a quiet person and who seemed to have had bad experiences with women. By chance Taylor accidentally cuts Henry's jeans by six inches, leading her to upcycle the jeans and her sewing method had become so famous in the small town that orders of upcycling starts flooding towards Taylor, even though she is living in a cramped apartment. Henry meanwhile secretly falls in love with Taylor even though he was a little afraid of showing off his feelings. The story itself is beautifully written and although I am not much of a romance fan, this book was actually good. I enjoyed this book, I thought I really liked the chemistry between Harry and Taylor. I am wondering if there is going to be another book in the series and cannot wait to read the next one. Overall this book worth 4.5 stars.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Aria for the ARC. The review is based on my honest opinion only.
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