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Quintessentially Yours
James Kingman’s world just got complicated. The love of his life, Katherine Dale, has just given birth to their first child. His troublesome business manager, Phillipa, is sexually harassing him at work. His boss proposes a partnership which would double his workload. With so much on his plate, how will James cope?
Plagued by the unexpected exhaustion of having a baby who suffers from colic, he tries his best to hold his family together. Despite growing up without a mother and a neglectful father, James is a natural-born father. Katherine, however, is struggling. Dejected and rejected, Katherine battles with her hormones as her writing career begins to slip away from her. She not only doubts her capabilities as a writer but as a mother too. Katherine confides in James’ boss, the enigmatic and world-famous astrologer, Mark Ainsley-Thomas, and he puts her in touch with his agent.
Things start to look up for the writer, as her latest work attracts attention from several publishers, but her trips to Mark’s hotel attract attention too… Suspicion is aroused and photographs are snapped.
Is there any truth to last year’s rumours of an affair between the pair?
If not, then why is Katherine visiting Mark in secret?
Will James be able to resist the advances of his seductive colleague?
Will the tangled trio be able to avoid scandal in the stars?
This sequel to ‘Under The Stars’ can be read as a standalone romcom.
Plagued by the unexpected exhaustion of having a baby who suffers from colic, he tries his best to hold his family together. Despite growing up without a mother and a neglectful father, James is a natural-born father. Katherine, however, is struggling. Dejected and rejected, Katherine battles with her hormones as her writing career begins to slip away from her. She not only doubts her capabilities as a writer but as a mother too. Katherine confides in James’ boss, the enigmatic and world-famous astrologer, Mark Ainsley-Thomas, and he puts her in touch with his agent.
Things start to look up for the writer, as her latest work attracts attention from several publishers, but her trips to Mark’s hotel attract attention too… Suspicion is aroused and photographs are snapped.
Is there any truth to last year’s rumours of an affair between the pair?
If not, then why is Katherine visiting Mark in secret?
Will James be able to resist the advances of his seductive colleague?
Will the tangled trio be able to avoid scandal in the stars?
This sequel to ‘Under The Stars’ can be read as a standalone romcom.
207 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 3, 2015
18 people are currently reading
32 people want to read
About the author
Linn B. Halton
26 books276 followersLinn B. Halton writes feelgood fiction: home is where the heart is! In 2013 she won the UK Festival of Romance: Innovation in Romantic Fiction Award. Originally from Bristol, she now lives in Somerset with her husband, and Bengal cat, Ziggy.
For Linn, life is all about family, friends and writing. She is a self-confessed hopeless romantic and an eternal optimist. When Linn is not writing, she spends time in the garden weeding, or practising Tai Chi. And she is often found with a paintbrush in her hand indulging her passion for upcycling furniture.
Linn is represented by Sara Keane from the Keane Kataria Literary Agency.
She also writes under the pen name of Lucy Coleman.
For Linn, life is all about family, friends and writing. She is a self-confessed hopeless romantic and an eternal optimist. When Linn is not writing, she spends time in the garden weeding, or practising Tai Chi. And she is often found with a paintbrush in her hand indulging her passion for upcycling furniture.
Linn is represented by Sara Keane from the Keane Kataria Literary Agency.
She also writes under the pen name of Lucy Coleman.
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
August 5, 2015
James and Katherine are the proud parents of baby Leyla. James wanted to ask Katherine to marry him, but the baby news prevented that from taking place. They didn't have much time together before parenthood, but they love each other dearly. Leyla isn't a good sleeper and Katherine is exhausted. Her first book was a big success, but her second book was a flop and her editor isn't happy with the manuscript of her third book. This makes Katherine insecure and she feels lost. She also thinks she isn't a good mother. Taking care of Leyla doesn't come natural and because she's a perfectionist she has the idea she isn't coping well enough.
James loves working for Mark and his fame as an astrologist is slowly starting to rise. Mark has a lot of plans and he's giving James a more important role in the company, so it looks like he's going to have a promising future. Unfortunately he doesn't really enjoy a certain aspect of his job which spoils everything for him. The reason for that is Phillipa, the new business manager, whose unwanted advances are making him cringe. James doesn't know how to handle the situation and he's afraid of her. He's insecure about Mark's motives and he doesn't like it that Katherine still prefers Mark's readings. He's such a happy father and he loves Katherine dearly, but he doesn't know how to make things better for her.
Mark feels alone and wants to make some changes in his life. He needs Katherine's help, but she isn't supposed to tell James. This makes the situation quite difficult for her, but it's also giving her purpose. She's trying to find a new publisher and she's also helping Mark to reach his goals. Slowly they're both starting to feel better, but it isn't an easy journey and they're also bringing the old scandal back to life again. Is that a wise thing to do?
It was a joy to read about the main characters of Under The Stars again. They all have a special place in my heart. I really enjoyed Quintessentially Yours and couldn't put it away. I read this book in one sitting as it is so good that I wanted to keep reading and I didn't want the story to end at all. After just a short period of happiness the situation changes and Mark, James and Katherine need to find their balance again. There's quite a journey ahead of them and I loved reading about it. Katherine is coping so well, but she doesn't seem to notice. She's quite a perfectionist and when she can't keep things under control she wants the stars to rescue her, she's wonderful and this often put a smile on my face. James is a sweetheart, he wants to do everything right and forgets himself in the process. And Mark does something hilarious which is really stupid, it's out of character and it made me laugh so hard.
Linn B. Halton is such a great writer. Reading her books makes me just as happy as visiting friends. I keep having the feeling that I really know the characters and it feels like they're actual people instead of fictional. I enjoyed reading the astrological advice and actually wanted to subscribe to the website straight away. Both Mark and James have their own style of writing their readings and that's important to Katherine. I liked that some of them can actually be found in the book. Linn B. Halton shows her readers what's so different about them, so the story comes to life even more. The cover of the book is beautiful and the same goes for the title, which is such an excellent and fitting choice. I highly recommend Quintessentially Yours and the same goes for any other book by this author.
James loves working for Mark and his fame as an astrologist is slowly starting to rise. Mark has a lot of plans and he's giving James a more important role in the company, so it looks like he's going to have a promising future. Unfortunately he doesn't really enjoy a certain aspect of his job which spoils everything for him. The reason for that is Phillipa, the new business manager, whose unwanted advances are making him cringe. James doesn't know how to handle the situation and he's afraid of her. He's insecure about Mark's motives and he doesn't like it that Katherine still prefers Mark's readings. He's such a happy father and he loves Katherine dearly, but he doesn't know how to make things better for her.
Mark feels alone and wants to make some changes in his life. He needs Katherine's help, but she isn't supposed to tell James. This makes the situation quite difficult for her, but it's also giving her purpose. She's trying to find a new publisher and she's also helping Mark to reach his goals. Slowly they're both starting to feel better, but it isn't an easy journey and they're also bringing the old scandal back to life again. Is that a wise thing to do?
It was a joy to read about the main characters of Under The Stars again. They all have a special place in my heart. I really enjoyed Quintessentially Yours and couldn't put it away. I read this book in one sitting as it is so good that I wanted to keep reading and I didn't want the story to end at all. After just a short period of happiness the situation changes and Mark, James and Katherine need to find their balance again. There's quite a journey ahead of them and I loved reading about it. Katherine is coping so well, but she doesn't seem to notice. She's quite a perfectionist and when she can't keep things under control she wants the stars to rescue her, she's wonderful and this often put a smile on my face. James is a sweetheart, he wants to do everything right and forgets himself in the process. And Mark does something hilarious which is really stupid, it's out of character and it made me laugh so hard.
Linn B. Halton is such a great writer. Reading her books makes me just as happy as visiting friends. I keep having the feeling that I really know the characters and it feels like they're actual people instead of fictional. I enjoyed reading the astrological advice and actually wanted to subscribe to the website straight away. Both Mark and James have their own style of writing their readings and that's important to Katherine. I liked that some of them can actually be found in the book. Linn B. Halton shows her readers what's so different about them, so the story comes to life even more. The cover of the book is beautiful and the same goes for the title, which is such an excellent and fitting choice. I highly recommend Quintessentially Yours and the same goes for any other book by this author.
September 20, 2015
Quintessentially Yours is a fabulous follow up to Under The Stars. Don't worry if you haven't read the first one, this will work as a standalone book too.
The book is broken up once again into the view points of Mark, James and Katherine, and I feel we get to know James a lot more in this book, as he has I feel more chapters than the other two. He is a wonderful boyfriend and father, and is dealing with a new female boss who is a bit more flirtatious than she should be.
Meanwhile Mark has some adjustments to get used to in his own life, and is starting to hand over a lot more of the horoscope writing to James, in order to do more publicity for the brand.
And Katherine has baby Leyla who is only a few months old and is suffering from colic, she is also starting to struggle with her writing career, and everything seems to be getting on top of her for a bit, until the stars align and produce her a more positive time in her life.
There is from my point of view at least, thankfully less in depth detail about horoscopes in this book, and instead it is far more a lovely story of three people clearly trying to adjust to the changes in their lives, and to cope with what the world throws at them.
I loved the interactions between the characters, and No. 4 the cat is just as unpredictable in his behaviours this time around.
Although there were lots of hints at what could happen towards the end of the book, I only twigged what may be going on, perhaps a paragraph or two before a couple of the resolutions. Was slightly surprised that more wasn't made of various of the storylines, but the story as it is, is very good.
I loved Quintessentially Yours, think it is a fantastic sequel, and a great story in its own right. It was great to see the characters return, and since I read the two books one after the other, it felt like I was reading one longer book in two parts. Great continuity and a story you can really become absorbed in.
Thanks to Linn B Halton for this review copy. This was my honest opinion.
The book is broken up once again into the view points of Mark, James and Katherine, and I feel we get to know James a lot more in this book, as he has I feel more chapters than the other two. He is a wonderful boyfriend and father, and is dealing with a new female boss who is a bit more flirtatious than she should be.
Meanwhile Mark has some adjustments to get used to in his own life, and is starting to hand over a lot more of the horoscope writing to James, in order to do more publicity for the brand.
And Katherine has baby Leyla who is only a few months old and is suffering from colic, she is also starting to struggle with her writing career, and everything seems to be getting on top of her for a bit, until the stars align and produce her a more positive time in her life.
There is from my point of view at least, thankfully less in depth detail about horoscopes in this book, and instead it is far more a lovely story of three people clearly trying to adjust to the changes in their lives, and to cope with what the world throws at them.
I loved the interactions between the characters, and No. 4 the cat is just as unpredictable in his behaviours this time around.
Although there were lots of hints at what could happen towards the end of the book, I only twigged what may be going on, perhaps a paragraph or two before a couple of the resolutions. Was slightly surprised that more wasn't made of various of the storylines, but the story as it is, is very good.
I loved Quintessentially Yours, think it is a fantastic sequel, and a great story in its own right. It was great to see the characters return, and since I read the two books one after the other, it felt like I was reading one longer book in two parts. Great continuity and a story you can really become absorbed in.
Thanks to Linn B Halton for this review copy. This was my honest opinion.
August 9, 2015
I read the first instalment of this book, Under The Stars, several months back and really enjoyed Katherine and James' story. Although this novel can be read as a stand-alone, I love stories that continue on after the first book ended. It might just be my nosy personality, but I always wonder what happens to the characters after we turn the last page.
Quintessentially Yours again places Katherine, James and Mark (a well known astrologer) at the heart of its storyline. However, this time round each of them is dealing and facing completely different "problems" than before. Although I liked Katherine in the first book, I felt that I could identify with her a lot in this second instalment. Her struggles of juggling a new baby, her career and finding herself again reminded me very much of the first few months with our little bundle of joy.
Whenever I read a Linn B Halton book, I feel that one of her strong points is the development of her characters. Quintessentially Yours is no exception to this. It quickly becomes clear how much work and research must go into bringing these characters alive. With many books I remember the storyline and maybe the name of the hero/heroine, but because the reader gets to know so much about Katherine, James and Mark these names somehow stick and as mentioned before, I read Under The Stars several months back, I could still remember all three names and what their characters were about.
Quintessentially Yours is a refreshing and touching read about relationships, parenthood, the juggling of work/family life and not to forget - a little astrological guidance.
Quintessentially Yours again places Katherine, James and Mark (a well known astrologer) at the heart of its storyline. However, this time round each of them is dealing and facing completely different "problems" than before. Although I liked Katherine in the first book, I felt that I could identify with her a lot in this second instalment. Her struggles of juggling a new baby, her career and finding herself again reminded me very much of the first few months with our little bundle of joy.
Whenever I read a Linn B Halton book, I feel that one of her strong points is the development of her characters. Quintessentially Yours is no exception to this. It quickly becomes clear how much work and research must go into bringing these characters alive. With many books I remember the storyline and maybe the name of the hero/heroine, but because the reader gets to know so much about Katherine, James and Mark these names somehow stick and as mentioned before, I read Under The Stars several months back, I could still remember all three names and what their characters were about.
Quintessentially Yours is a refreshing and touching read about relationships, parenthood, the juggling of work/family life and not to forget - a little astrological guidance.
September 5, 2015
A fun light hearted read catching up with the characters from the previous book
September 17, 2015
Quintessentially Yours continues were Under the Stars left off. Katherine Dale's life has taken such an unexpected turn that even the stars may not offer her much comfort. Or so it seems. Finding that motherhood isn't what she had hoped it would be, her feelings of inadequacy affect all areas of her life, especially her relationship with James and her writing career. James in the meantime has his own struggles. More responsibility in his job means trying to juggling supporting a weepy, emotional and upset Katherine against avoiding the grasp of an overtly over familiar work colleague who is making it very clear that its more than business with James she is interested in. And, of course there is the lovely Mark. Life has thrown him a curve ball and the famous astrologer is looking to the stars for guidance in his own life. Broken hearted, lonely and feeling lost in the world, the last thing he needs is another scandal to add to his woes.
I love the character of James. He is so selfless, always putting Katherine first, wanting to make sure she and baby Leyla are ok. James often forgets about his own needs and puts himself under increasing pressure to keep everyone happy. But how long can one man hold it all together for everyone else. Throughout the book I just wanted to hug James, take up some of the burden and make everything ok. Linn B Halton's writing has that quality, that something special that invests a reader in the story, making them care about each character.
Astrology is such an interesting topic for me and Quintessentially Yours does obviously cover the subject, but in an informative way and like Katherine, I was always keen to discover what the stars had in store. However, what I particularly like about this story is that it rings so true to real life. Life does change dramatically when you have a baby. Romance does take a back seat for a while. And, the most important thing in the world is a few hours sleep! Linn B Halton has captured this element of what being a parent and part of a couple is like whilst still retaining a sweet love story. The love the couple have for each other is evident throughout their trials and tribulations. Its nice to read a book that isn't all hearts and flowers but has a bit of baby sick, burst water mains and a temperamental cat thrown in. And again, we have the most intuitive tuned in character of all back again offering his pearls of wisdom..............the postman Tom! Love him! This wise old sage, despite his aches and pains and protestations about life, is keeping a careful eye on everyone.
Linn B Halton has written another great book. Beautifully written, it is a lovely story that I really enjoyed with some twists, turns and unexpected surprises. Although a sequel, it can be read as a standalone. However, why would you ever want to miss a Linn B Halton book. Go read Under the Stars too!! You'd be mad not to.
I love the character of James. He is so selfless, always putting Katherine first, wanting to make sure she and baby Leyla are ok. James often forgets about his own needs and puts himself under increasing pressure to keep everyone happy. But how long can one man hold it all together for everyone else. Throughout the book I just wanted to hug James, take up some of the burden and make everything ok. Linn B Halton's writing has that quality, that something special that invests a reader in the story, making them care about each character.
Astrology is such an interesting topic for me and Quintessentially Yours does obviously cover the subject, but in an informative way and like Katherine, I was always keen to discover what the stars had in store. However, what I particularly like about this story is that it rings so true to real life. Life does change dramatically when you have a baby. Romance does take a back seat for a while. And, the most important thing in the world is a few hours sleep! Linn B Halton has captured this element of what being a parent and part of a couple is like whilst still retaining a sweet love story. The love the couple have for each other is evident throughout their trials and tribulations. Its nice to read a book that isn't all hearts and flowers but has a bit of baby sick, burst water mains and a temperamental cat thrown in. And again, we have the most intuitive tuned in character of all back again offering his pearls of wisdom..............the postman Tom! Love him! This wise old sage, despite his aches and pains and protestations about life, is keeping a careful eye on everyone.
Linn B Halton has written another great book. Beautifully written, it is a lovely story that I really enjoyed with some twists, turns and unexpected surprises. Although a sequel, it can be read as a standalone. However, why would you ever want to miss a Linn B Halton book. Go read Under the Stars too!! You'd be mad not to.
August 23, 2015
Firstly I’d like to thank the author for sending me this eBook to read and share my honest opinion. This is the sequel to Under The Stars (my review of which can be found on my blog) but it can also be read as a standalone romcom.
Catching up with Katherine and James was like meeting up with old friends again after a long break, their lives had changed quite dramatically (as it always does when a baby comes along) and I was keen to see how they would cope with the changes. Their story was retold beautifully in the first few pages so I was easily able to slip back into their world.
Linn captured the mood of the first few months of parenthood perfectly. Those days of joy blended with utter exhaustion and confusion were described with such honesty, for me it really brought the characters emotions to life. Seeing as it hasn’t been long since I had our little one I found myself nodding along at some of the day-to-day struggles that Katherine was coping (or not coping) with. I really felt for her and could sense how overwhelmed she was, there were many times that I just wanted to reach into the book and give her a hug.
No.4 (the cat) was a favourite of mine from the first book so I was pleased to see him making his second appearance. He even managed to save the day on one occasion, what a hero!
There was a very interesting side to the storyline which involved book publishing, this was something I particularly enjoyed as, being a book blogger, I usually only see the finished (or nearly finished) product. I felt like I was being given a behind the scenes peek at everything that comes first.
As with other books from this author there were a couple of moments that gave me goosebumps, I love the way Linn manages to weave spiritual elements into her storylines.
This was a touching read, one that really struck a chord within me – a great sequel!
Catching up with Katherine and James was like meeting up with old friends again after a long break, their lives had changed quite dramatically (as it always does when a baby comes along) and I was keen to see how they would cope with the changes. Their story was retold beautifully in the first few pages so I was easily able to slip back into their world.
Linn captured the mood of the first few months of parenthood perfectly. Those days of joy blended with utter exhaustion and confusion were described with such honesty, for me it really brought the characters emotions to life. Seeing as it hasn’t been long since I had our little one I found myself nodding along at some of the day-to-day struggles that Katherine was coping (or not coping) with. I really felt for her and could sense how overwhelmed she was, there were many times that I just wanted to reach into the book and give her a hug.
No.4 (the cat) was a favourite of mine from the first book so I was pleased to see him making his second appearance. He even managed to save the day on one occasion, what a hero!
There was a very interesting side to the storyline which involved book publishing, this was something I particularly enjoyed as, being a book blogger, I usually only see the finished (or nearly finished) product. I felt like I was being given a behind the scenes peek at everything that comes first.
As with other books from this author there were a couple of moments that gave me goosebumps, I love the way Linn manages to weave spiritual elements into her storylines.
This was a touching read, one that really struck a chord within me – a great sequel!
August 5, 2015
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The title 'Quintessentially Yours' sums up the ethos of this lovely story perfectly.
Katherine's romantic bubble has burst in all aspects of her life and she is understandably shell shocked. James finds this needy Katherine, something of a challenge, although he shows his true worth by plugging all the holes in their daily life; whilst helping Katherine rediscover her sense of self-worth. James has his own demons to conquer as he adjusts to life as a new father.
Again the support characters are interesting and provide important insight into the story of our star-crossed couple. Mark's life also loses its status quo and Katherine manages to forget her own worries, to provide him with the support he so obviously needs.
There are unexpected twists and a charming mix of humour and poignancy. Although a sequel to 'Under the Stars', this story is complete. An enjoyable read, even if you haven't discovered the delights of 'Under the Stars' yet.
'Quintessentially Yours', is a tale of everyday life and people with just enough added sparkle to make it the perfect read to escape your own life for a little while.
I received a copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.
Linn B. Halton
September 1, 2015
This is the second Linn B Halton book I have read—the first being A Cottage in the Country—and I confess I am becoming a bit of a fan. I know that Quintessentially Yours is a follow-up to Under the Stars, but can safely assure readers that the book works perfectly well as a stand-alone. I have not read Under the Stars, although it is on my alarmingly long TBR list (bumped up a couple slots because the author has proven herself to be a solid read for me).
Katherine and James are new parents and everyday people. The romance in the relationship has fizzled, Katherine has become morose and (more than a little bit) needy. James is there to hold the line, but doesn't find it easy. Add into the mix James' dishonorable minx of a boss, the brisk fading star of Katherine's writing career, and a whole lot of astrology—and we've got us a story!
What I enjoyed most about this story is the authenticity of Halton's characters. They all feel like real people, and the astrology aspect is well integrated without being cheesy (which it very easily could have been). The book has moments of real poignancy that are dusted with laugh-out-loud humor. Quintessentially Yours is an easy and light read for anyone looking for an effortless, enjoyable, and highly entertaining diversion.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion, which this certainly is.
Katherine and James are new parents and everyday people. The romance in the relationship has fizzled, Katherine has become morose and (more than a little bit) needy. James is there to hold the line, but doesn't find it easy. Add into the mix James' dishonorable minx of a boss, the brisk fading star of Katherine's writing career, and a whole lot of astrology—and we've got us a story!
What I enjoyed most about this story is the authenticity of Halton's characters. They all feel like real people, and the astrology aspect is well integrated without being cheesy (which it very easily could have been). The book has moments of real poignancy that are dusted with laugh-out-loud humor. Quintessentially Yours is an easy and light read for anyone looking for an effortless, enjoyable, and highly entertaining diversion.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion, which this certainly is.
August 6, 2015
Quitessentially Yours picks up about a year after we left Katherine, James and Mark at the end of Under The Stars, poor Mark has suffered the loss of his wife Isobel, and Katherine and James (and of course No. 4) are up to their ears in all things baby whilst trying to juggle their own careers and building renovations.
It would be so easy to have everything coming up roses for Katherine and James but Halton has thrown in a couple of bumps in their road. Katherine is struggling with the trials of motherhood and the rejection of her newest manuscript, James is unsure about his career path, both are keeping secrets from each other and they appear to be drifting apart! Life may not be at it's easiest but I love how this couple over come those bumps..
As always, Halton provides us with a book that we can easily immerse ourselves in, a story that is beautifully written and grabs you by both hands. I dare you to try and put this book down.
It would be so easy to have everything coming up roses for Katherine and James but Halton has thrown in a couple of bumps in their road. Katherine is struggling with the trials of motherhood and the rejection of her newest manuscript, James is unsure about his career path, both are keeping secrets from each other and they appear to be drifting apart! Life may not be at it's easiest but I love how this couple over come those bumps..
As always, Halton provides us with a book that we can easily immerse ourselves in, a story that is beautifully written and grabs you by both hands. I dare you to try and put this book down.
September 21, 2015
Quintessentially yours is a story about everyday life with people that add just a pinch more sparkle to make it such a perfectly enjoyable read. This story centres around Katherine and James who are going through what some people may say real life problems. There is alot going on and you also get to see what the other characters think of James and Katherine's relationship and life. Such a touching read which I thoroughly enjoyed.
December 30, 2016
Katherine found her soul mate when she met James. He asked her to marry him, but they have postponed the wedding because of the birth of their daughter Leyla. Leyla is not an easy baby. She has colic problems and is a bad sleeper because of that. Katherine is exhausted and is trying to find ways to cope with their daughter's problems. She had an incredibly successful launch of her first book, but the sales of the second book weren't the best. Now that her third book has been rejected by her publisher Katherine feels like a failure. She can't get her daughter to stop crying, can't write a good story and doesn't bring an income into their household.
James has been doing everything in his power to help Katherine take care of Leyla. He has been working for the astrologer Mark Ainsley-Thomas. James is already very busy writing the daily forecasts and answering all the incoming emails. He's also struggling because of sexual harassment from his colleague, Phillipa. When Mark suggests an equal partnership James knows this is the chance of a lifetime. He does feel guilty though, because he knows that his job will take more of his time. Time that he now spends with Katherine and Leyla. Being a partner means that they will be financially secure, which may take some pressure off Katherine.
Katherine feels lost in her role as a mom. She has the idea that motherhood comes naturally to anybody except her. When I was reading about her struggles I had tears in my eyes. Being a mom myself I know all about a baby who doesn't sleep or is crying nonstop because of colic. Being so exhausted makes you question everything you do. Katherine is coping so well, but she doesn't notice it herself. She keeps looking at other people and at the stars for signs to guide her. Being a mother is not always easy and sometimes you have to try plenty of different things before you finally find something that works. I couldn't stop reading about Katherine's journey to get her feet back on the ground and really wanted her to find a new working routine for James, Leyla and her.
James is such a sweetheart. He has a demanding job, but he still helps Katherine out the best he can. Even though his father wasn't a good role model, he's a natural himself. James has a lot on his plate and he sometimes doubts if Katherine still loves him as much as she did in the beginning. I found his internal dialogue endearing. He also isn't afraid to show his vulnerability and he often asks his friend Ed for advice. James is a loving father, partner and friend and I could easily understand why Katherine fell in love with him.
Quintessentially Yours is another beautiful story by Linn B. Halton. I loved the fact that she has used a lot of personal knowledge and experience for this story. She puts much time and effort into her characters and they all feel like real people to me. I found myself searching Mark on Google just to find out that he doesn't actually exist. Under the Stars is a book about Katherine and James as well, it's the story of how found each other. This book together with Quintessentially Yours triggered my interest in astrology. I went to the websites that Linn B. Halton uses herself to find out more about my own sign. I love that she combines interesting topics with beautiful writing style and this book is very special. I highly recommend Quintessentially Yours or any other book written by this author.
Advice
Quintessentially Yours shows you how people cope with day-to-day life. It also gives you a lot of inside information about the world of astrology. This together with a beautiful love story makes Quintessentially Yours a heartwarming read. I would advise you to read Under the Stars first as this way you get James and Katherine's complete story.
James has been doing everything in his power to help Katherine take care of Leyla. He has been working for the astrologer Mark Ainsley-Thomas. James is already very busy writing the daily forecasts and answering all the incoming emails. He's also struggling because of sexual harassment from his colleague, Phillipa. When Mark suggests an equal partnership James knows this is the chance of a lifetime. He does feel guilty though, because he knows that his job will take more of his time. Time that he now spends with Katherine and Leyla. Being a partner means that they will be financially secure, which may take some pressure off Katherine.
Katherine feels lost in her role as a mom. She has the idea that motherhood comes naturally to anybody except her. When I was reading about her struggles I had tears in my eyes. Being a mom myself I know all about a baby who doesn't sleep or is crying nonstop because of colic. Being so exhausted makes you question everything you do. Katherine is coping so well, but she doesn't notice it herself. She keeps looking at other people and at the stars for signs to guide her. Being a mother is not always easy and sometimes you have to try plenty of different things before you finally find something that works. I couldn't stop reading about Katherine's journey to get her feet back on the ground and really wanted her to find a new working routine for James, Leyla and her.
James is such a sweetheart. He has a demanding job, but he still helps Katherine out the best he can. Even though his father wasn't a good role model, he's a natural himself. James has a lot on his plate and he sometimes doubts if Katherine still loves him as much as she did in the beginning. I found his internal dialogue endearing. He also isn't afraid to show his vulnerability and he often asks his friend Ed for advice. James is a loving father, partner and friend and I could easily understand why Katherine fell in love with him.
Quintessentially Yours is another beautiful story by Linn B. Halton. I loved the fact that she has used a lot of personal knowledge and experience for this story. She puts much time and effort into her characters and they all feel like real people to me. I found myself searching Mark on Google just to find out that he doesn't actually exist. Under the Stars is a book about Katherine and James as well, it's the story of how found each other. This book together with Quintessentially Yours triggered my interest in astrology. I went to the websites that Linn B. Halton uses herself to find out more about my own sign. I love that she combines interesting topics with beautiful writing style and this book is very special. I highly recommend Quintessentially Yours or any other book written by this author.
Advice
Quintessentially Yours shows you how people cope with day-to-day life. It also gives you a lot of inside information about the world of astrology. This together with a beautiful love story makes Quintessentially Yours a heartwarming read. I would advise you to read Under the Stars first as this way you get James and Katherine's complete story.
September 26, 2015
Quintessentially Yours is the follow-up to Under The Stars and we catch up with Katherine Dale and James Kingman after the birth of their daughter, Leyla. Mark Ainsley Thomas lost his wife, Isobel, very suddenly and has not been coping well during the last, very tough, year. Each of them have had major changes in their lives and are dealing with the resulting difficulties and complications. Even No4, the fabulous feline, used to being the centre of attention has been displaced and is grappling with the upheaval in his world.
Baby Leyla suffers from colic and Katherine is struggling with exhaustion and feelings of inadequacy. Her writing career is not flourishing and her third book has been rejected. James’ workload is increasing and coupled with the sleepless nights, unwanted advances and the building work on the cottage things are not going at all smoothly. Both of them are holding things back from each other, for the best of reasons, but it all adds to the rising tension. Mark feels the need for change and enlists Katherine’s help when his first attempt goes horribly wrong.
What I like so much about Linn Halton’s characters is the realism and authenticity, they are so easy to relate to and like. Katherine and James are adjusting to life with a new baby and the reality, although joyful, is a shock to the system, especially when combined with lack of routine and sleep, uncertainty about careers and long working hours. James’ star is rising as Katherine’s seems to be falling. James is playing a much more active role since Mark offered him a partnership in the company.
After the success of her first book, Katherine hasn’t been able to maintain the momentum and her third manuscript has been rejected. She’s battling with hormones and feels useless as a mother and a writer. By helping and supporting Mark, Katherine puts her concerns to one side and she finds her sense of resolve and determination returning. But her efforts on Mark’s behalf encourage the wrong sort of attention and an old scandal is revived.
The insight into the intricacies of the publishing world is very interesting and of course, I love the astrology aspect and the nod to the paranormal, both of which are nicely incorporated into the narrative along with a touching mix of humour and warmth. I enjoyed very much getting reacquainted with Katherine, James, Mark and old Tom, the postman. Not forgetting No 4 who comes into his own in good style.
Baby Leyla suffers from colic and Katherine is struggling with exhaustion and feelings of inadequacy. Her writing career is not flourishing and her third book has been rejected. James’ workload is increasing and coupled with the sleepless nights, unwanted advances and the building work on the cottage things are not going at all smoothly. Both of them are holding things back from each other, for the best of reasons, but it all adds to the rising tension. Mark feels the need for change and enlists Katherine’s help when his first attempt goes horribly wrong.
What I like so much about Linn Halton’s characters is the realism and authenticity, they are so easy to relate to and like. Katherine and James are adjusting to life with a new baby and the reality, although joyful, is a shock to the system, especially when combined with lack of routine and sleep, uncertainty about careers and long working hours. James’ star is rising as Katherine’s seems to be falling. James is playing a much more active role since Mark offered him a partnership in the company.
After the success of her first book, Katherine hasn’t been able to maintain the momentum and her third manuscript has been rejected. She’s battling with hormones and feels useless as a mother and a writer. By helping and supporting Mark, Katherine puts her concerns to one side and she finds her sense of resolve and determination returning. But her efforts on Mark’s behalf encourage the wrong sort of attention and an old scandal is revived.
The insight into the intricacies of the publishing world is very interesting and of course, I love the astrology aspect and the nod to the paranormal, both of which are nicely incorporated into the narrative along with a touching mix of humour and warmth. I enjoyed very much getting reacquainted with Katherine, James, Mark and old Tom, the postman. Not forgetting No 4 who comes into his own in good style.
December 8, 2015
Lovely Sequel
I loved the first book and was thrilled when I'd heard Linn B Halton had written a sequel. The same characters in a new lifestyle role was great. I don't want to give anything away so I'll just say I was definitely not disappointed!!
I loved the first book and was thrilled when I'd heard Linn B Halton had written a sequel. The same characters in a new lifestyle role was great. I don't want to give anything away so I'll just say I was definitely not disappointed!!
September 25, 2015
An assumed love triangle continues to affect the lives of three people in the public eye.
Full review soon.
Full review soon.
March 28, 2019
I really enjoyed reading this story. There's a lot about it that I recognise when I was a new parent all those years ago.
I felt frustrated, at times,with the characters' lack of communication but that's a good thing; it was all part of the story development.
I loved our main romantic couple, James and Katherine; it was refreshing to join their story as a committed steady relationship.
I was also left wondering how much of Katherine's author experiences we're written from personal experience.
I felt frustrated, at times,with the characters' lack of communication but that's a good thing; it was all part of the story development.
I loved our main romantic couple, James and Katherine; it was refreshing to join their story as a committed steady relationship.
I was also left wondering how much of Katherine's author experiences we're written from personal experience.
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