Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Beginnings #1

New Beginnings

Rate this book
The chance to start life all over with the help of a stranger.

Twenty-two-year-old Sophie Levesque has been guardian to her eight-year-old sister Mia since their mother's death a few years ago, and it hasn't been easy. Luck comes their way when they inherit a small house in Hobart. Problem is, though, they don't know and have never heard of Clara Bellinger, the testator. Settling into their new life, Sophie is still afraid it's all a mistake.

Mark O'Connor, attorney in Hobart and the bearer of the good news for Sophie and Mia, curses himself for the lack of information about the testator. However, researching the questions gives him an opportunity to see Sophie again, and the more time he spends with the two, the more he realises that his life is missing something. And it's not his casual lover Linda.

But then there's Zach, Sophie's sexy neighbour from across the road... and a very good friend of Clara's.

Will unravelling the mystery unravel Sophie and Mark's promise of a future?

153 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 19, 2013

7 people are currently reading
107 people want to read

About the author

Iris Blobel

25 books261 followers
For a FREE book from Iris Blobel, join her Newsletter here: http://eepurl.com/b-U0G5 and do follow her on Bookbub for the latest book releases https://www.bookbub.com/profile/iris-...

Iris Blobel writes warm, sexy, and sometimes witty Australian Contemporary Romance books for readers who, like herself, still strongly believe in love and Happily Ever Afters. And she knows HEAs. Her couples are hungry for life, done with the past, passionate about family, and emotionally hopeful for a future. The stories are mainly set in Australia but also in New Zealand and even the US, depending on where her travels take her. She loves nothing more than for her readers to join her on her journeys.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
23 (41%)
4 stars
21 (38%)
3 stars
10 (18%)
2 stars
0 (0%)
1 star
1 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
Profile Image for Sharon.
1,445 reviews263 followers
December 4, 2013
This is a beautifully written story and I really enjoyed it.

Sophie Levesque has been taking care of her younger sister Mia since their mother passed away when Mia was quite young. At the time Sophie was eighteen and they had no father to rely on as he'd walked out on them when their mother was alive. Up to date life has been hard for them not only do they have to cope without their parents, but they will also have to grow up much faster than they wanted to. They quickly learn it's not easy and from day to day it's quite a struggle. So when Mark O'Connar an attorney informs them they have inherited a house from a distant relative they can't believe it. At first Sophie thinks this must be a mistake, but she is assured it's not and this house is really theirs. The house is in Battery Point in Hobart and it's been left to them by Clara Catherine Bellinger who is a distant relative. Sophie has never herd of this woman before and wants more information, but unfortunately Mark doesn't have any although he will try to find out what he can.

Sophie and Mia pack up their few possessions that they have and Mark takes them to their new home. Once they arrive they are surprised how nice it is. It's fully furnished with beautiful old fashioned furniture. Although it's all very lovely Sophie is still concerned that is a big mistake so she doesn't want to get to comfortable in case they have to move out. Mark assures Sophie he will do he's best to find out information but it may take awhile. Within a short time they start to settle in and Mia enrols in school and starts to make to new friends.

Mark wants to make sure that Sophie and Mia have settled into their new home so he drops in for a visit. Sophie's not sure why he's visiting seeing as he has no information on their distant relative. But in a way she is pleased to see him and he does get along really well with Mia. And Mark also know it's not part of he's job, but for some reason he just wants to see them and spend time with them.
As time goes on Sophie meets one of her neighbours Zach and as it turns out he knew Clara Bellinger and in time we find out who she is and how she is connected with Sophie and Mia.
This was a very enjoyable read and it left me wanting just a little bit more. I highly recommend it.
Profile Image for Carol (StarAngel's Reviews) Allen.
1,692 reviews634 followers
August 16, 2016
Wow...what a tangled web we weave! Sophie has got it coming in all directions with the mystery of the testator.

These are the type of stories that I love...since it has a bit of everything in it. Not only do we get a bit of a love triangle but add some mystery and thriller to it. Now, that makes a perfect book by Ms. Blobel!

But let me remind you that this is nothing new since I find myself always wrapped up in this author's writing since she writes with emotion and feelings. Whether it be anger, happiness, sadness - you name it...Ms. Blobel gives us the whole package in her stories!
Profile Image for Jenny.
2,279 reviews73 followers
May 16, 2017
New Beginnings is about two sisters Sophie and Mia Levesque who lived in poverty in Sydney after their Mother died. However, this changed when a wealthy benefactor left them a house in Tasmania. Sophie and Mia had no family in Sydney, so they packed up everything and moved to Tasmania.

New Beginnings follows Sophie, and Mia Levesque journey and intertwine with the blossom romance between Mark O'Connor and Sophie Levesque. However, like all romances, it did not develop smoothly.

New Beginnings is the first book I have read by Iris Blobel, and I did like it. Also, I enjoy Iris Blobel written style and her portrayal of her characters. Readers of New Beginnings will learn about the difficulties young people faced when they became guardians to young family members.

Readers of New Beginnings will learn about the roles of escorts and prostitutes. New Beginnings shows that everyone's life can change with the help and support of others.


I recommend this book.
Profile Image for Caitlyn Lynch.
Author 210 books1,825 followers
March 19, 2017
New Beginnings is a very sweet book about Sophie, a young woman struggling to take care of her little sister after the pair of them are orphaned. Inheriting a house from a mysterious benefactor seems like a gift from God for Sophie, even if she does have to uproot herself and Mia from Sydney and move to Hobart, Tasmania, for it. This was well-plotted out, with a completely plausible reason for a stranger leaving Sophie her property which is revealed in a clever and intriguing way. Mark O'Connor is the Hobart attorney handling the property transfer who finds himself hopelessly drawn to Sophie.

I'd just like to add in here that I know Hobart very well; my in-laws live there and I usually spend a couple of weeks there every year. Iris Blobel does a nice job drawing the charming, vintage feeling of Hobart for us in words, though there are times when I'd have liked to see a little more descriptive narrative to fill in a few slightly awkward gaps. The end of the book in particular feels rushed, with a promised and anticipated trip to see the seals skipped over completely. I'd have liked to read the actual proposal scene as well, rather than just have Mark planning it.

I think New Beginnings might be the only book I've ever read which is set in Hobart, come to think of it. I might have to remedy that by going and reading the rest of Iris Blobel's Beginnings series, which are apparently also set there. If this one is any guide, they’ll be well worth the effort. Four stars.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for review through Reader’s Favorite.
Profile Image for Literary Chanteuse.
1,055 reviews180 followers
December 31, 2014
Sophie and Mark are an irresistible match from the beginning. While getting closer and connected to them individually, as the story progressed I couldn't help but want them to be together. This author has a way of endearing her characters and it is easy to fall in love with them. An intriguing story with emotion, love and hope. A very enjoyable read! I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for N.N. Heaven.
Author 6 books2,120 followers
April 25, 2017
I really enjoyed this romance and trust me, you'll need a few tissues. Filled with real characters dealing with life's ups and downs, New Beginnings by Iris Blobel is a heartfelt romance. Highly recommend!

My Rating: 5 stars
Profile Image for Kathy.
626 reviews29 followers
December 31, 2014
A quick, easy but loveable read. Was expecting a bit more to happen, but all in all, a nice summer read.
1,018 reviews4 followers
June 5, 2017
New Beginnings

Oh this was amazing and breathe of freshness. The book had a lot of mystery and sexual indulgence in this story. I'm delighted to say reading this author's book was excellent. ENJOY
Profile Image for Barbara Barber.
114 reviews3 followers
August 18, 2018
My first Book

This is my first book of Iris she is fabulous I'm off to the 2 nd Book ! Thank you Iris i read in one sitting could
Not put it down
Profile Image for Suze.
1,884 reviews1,300 followers
June 22, 2015
Sophie has been taking care of her sister Mia ever since their mother died four years ago. Mia is only eight years old, so she's much younger than her sister, who's in her early twenties. Even though life isn't easy Sophie adores Mia. All of a sudden their life in crappy apartments is over when they inherit a house. The person who's made them the beneficiaries of their will is called Clara Bellinger. Sophie has never heard of this woman and she's puzzled why she and Mia have been left the house.

At first Sophie is afraid someone has made a mistake, but when the house appears to be really theirs she can finally relax a little. Mia is enjoying her new school and Hobart's fresh air is doing her a lot of good. Sophie doesn't have to do everything on her own any longer. There are two new men in her life who love helping her. The first one is Mark, the lawyer in charge of Clara's will, and the second one is Zach, Clara's good friend who lives across the street. Both of them would love to become more than friends with Sophie, but are they genuinely nice men or are they like the horrible guys her mother always came home with? Sophie is reluctant to begin a relationship. Will one of them be able to win her heart?

New Beginnings is a sweet story about a woman in her early twenties who's had a difficult life. Sophie is strong and determined. Even though she's wise in a lot of areas she's inexperienced in others. This contradiction makes her an interesting main character. Mia is a sweetheart and she brings a lightness to the story. I wanted to see them both happy. Because I couldn't wait to find out the reason they inherited the house and if Sophie would find love I read this story in one sitting. It's a lovely, light read and I enjoyed it very much.
Profile Image for Sandy Wolters.
Author 9 books110 followers
January 29, 2014
3.5 Stars

Book: New Beginnings
Author: Iris Blobel
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Length: Approximately 135 Pages

In NEW BEGINNINGS by IRIS BLOBEL, Sophie, a twenty-two-year old woman, has been guardian to Mia, her eight-year old sister, since she turned eighteen upon her mother's death. They've struggled to keep their heads above water, but they've always been able to lean on happy moments the two of them have shared.

Their luck changes when they inherit a home in a small town from a woman they've never met nor heard of. While happy about this new development, poor Sophie is afraid it has all been a mistake and she will wake up one morning and the house will be rescinded.

For the first time in their young lives, things are looking up for them. They're both creating new lives and friendships. NEW BEGINNINGS by IRIS BLOBEL is a sweet, heartwarming read. New romance is in the air when Mark, the attorney in charge of getting her settled stirs Sophie's heart, she just has to learn to trust in other people to allow the relationship to bloom. This is such a sweet read.
Profile Image for Rebecca Barber.
Author 17 books308 followers
August 27, 2016
This is an adorably sweet quick read.

Sophie is barely a woman herself yet she carries the weight of the world on her shoulders. After her father abandons her at a young age and her mother passes away, she's left to raise her 8 year old sister Mia on her own.

When Sophie and Mia inherit a house in Hobart, they pack up all their belongings, which sadly fit in a few suitcases and move. After meeting with the gorgeous and sweet lawyer, Mark, Sophie and Mia set out to make this their new home.

But after everything Sophie's endured, she can't help but to be waiting for the other shoe to drop. What if it's a mistake? What if it isn't her house? What if, this last shot at building a life is taken away from them in an instant.

Iris does an incredible job of creating characters you can't help but to be on their side as you hold your breath wishing for a happy ending.
Profile Image for Susan Trewick.
571 reviews18 followers
August 15, 2016
Sophie has been taking care of her younger sister ever since their mother passed away. Sophie has struggled alone with no other relatives to help her. Sophie's luck changes when she inherits a house from a woman she's never heard of, though happy Sophie worries that it's a huge mistake and the house will be taken off her. The lawyer who deals with her case has an instant attraction to her and pulls out all the stops to make her fall for him. Throw in a sexy neighbor with secrets of his own, can he help Sophie solve the puzzle? This is a sweet story with a little bit of mystery thrown in, an enjoyable read.

* * Reviewed for Sweet and Spicy Reads-ARC provided for honest review * *
Profile Image for Susanne Matthews.
62 reviews5 followers
August 13, 2016
Newly released and edited, New Beginnings by Iris Blobel is a feel good story centered on love and hope, Sophie's dedication to her younger sister, Mia, is incredible. The child is the center of her universe and there's nothing she won't do for her. Concerned the recent inheritance is all a mistake, Sophie wants to know more about the woman who gave them a home. Helping her is a drop-dead gorgeous attorney and the handsome, hunky neighbor. Sophie's journey of discovery is a beautiful one, and when she gets her answers, she finds the last thing she ever thought she would--love. Looking forward to the next book in this excellent series.
Profile Image for Emilia.
270 reviews24 followers
August 24, 2016
How many of us would like to have another chance in life… to start over. Especially if the life wasn’t too kind so far…
I loved this story. Not oversweetened , captivating, with likable and believable characters. Add to that a little mystery (WHY did they actually got that inheritance, and WHO was the “giver”?), little love story (well… won’t say anything more, no spoilers here!), and the strongest possible, sisterly bond – and there you have it! A perfect summer (or winter, depending where you live
974 reviews18 followers
September 16, 2014
I loved this story.  it was well written. However I was very disappointed that the main character chose to spend the night and bed with a man while having her young sister with them.  This is not acceptable for a book that is supposed to be Christian fiction,  I hate giving it three stars.  If not for that it would be a five star book.
Profile Image for Kathy Wideman.
2,610 reviews43 followers
August 16, 2016
This is the first book by Iris that I have read and I really enjoyed this book. This book is a bit emotional, but it also has romance and a happy ending. Sophie has been raising her little sister, Mia by herself since her mother died a few years ago but they haven’t had it easy. Now they seem to have found some luck. They have inherited a small house but the clincher is that they don’t know the lady, Clara Bellinger who willed it to them. Sophie fears that it is all a mistake and that they will be left with nothing again. Sophie just wants Mia to have a normal childhood and not to worry about constantly moving or if they will have food. Mia begins to settle in but Sophie is still worried about losing everything. She wants answers as to why Clara left them the house. How are they connected? Mark O’Connor the lawyer that contacted them about the inheritance is completely taken by Sophie. He begins to come over and Sophie likes him as well. She has missed out on what other girls her age normal get to do. This could be her chance for a little happiness for herself. Then there is Zack her neighbor from across the street. He comes by and helps Sophie possibly find some answers. He knew Clara and they were friends. Will Sophie finds some romance for herself and the answers she so desperately seeks? The characters in this book are great. Sophie and Mia need this fresh start and it maybe more than he ever hoped for. This story has a bit of mystery with how the girls are connected to Clara Bellinger. As well as romance between Sophie, Zack, and Mark. I truly enjoyed this book and I am excited to read the next book in this series.
I was given this book in return for an honest review.
Profile Image for Susanne Matthews.
62 reviews5 followers
May 31, 2016
Feel Good Romance

When life gives you lemons, you do the best you can to get by, but sometimes a surprise can solve a lot of problems. Iris Blobel has created a beautiful story filled with hope. I look forward to reading the rest of the books in this series.
1,404 reviews7 followers
August 30, 2018

The chance to start life all over with the help of a stranger.Twenty-two-year-old Sophie Levesque has been guardian to her eight-year-old sister Mia since their mother's death a few years ago, and it hasn't been easy. Luck comes their way when they inherit a small house in Hobart. Problem is, though, they don't know and have never heard of Clara Bellinger, the testator. Settling into their new life, Sophie is still afraid it's all a mistake.Mark O'Connor, attorney in Hobart and the bearer of the good news for Sophie and Mia, curses himself for the lack of information about the testator. However, researching the questions gives him an opportunity to see Sophie again, and the more time he spends with the two, the more he realises that his life is missing something. And it's not his casual lover Linda.But then there's Zach, Sophie's sexy neighbour from across the road... and a very good friend of Clara's.Will unravelling the mystery unravel Sophie and Mark's promise of a future?



The chance to start life all over with the help of a stranger.


Twenty-two-year-old Sophie Levesque has been guardian to her eight-year-old sister Mia since their mother’s death a few years ago, and it hasn’t been easy. Luck comes their way when they inherit a small house in Hobart. Problem is, though, they don’t know and have never heard of Clara Bellinger, the testator. Settling into their new life, Sophie is still afraid it’s all a mistake.


Mark O’Connor, attorney in Hobart and the bearer of the good news for Sophie and Mia, curses himself for the lack of information about the testator. However, researching the questions gives him an opportunity to see Sophie again, and the more time he spends with the two, the more he realises that his life is missing something. And it’s not his casual lover Linda.


But then there’s Zach, Sophie’s sexy neighbour from across the road… and a very good friend of Clara’s.


Will unravelling the mystery unravel Sophie and Mark’s promise of a future?


**


### Review


NEW BEGINNINGS is a very emotional read, one that is heartwarming as well as heart wrenching. It gives you hope in the act of human kindness and that good things do happen to good people. I highly recommend this book. - Danita Moon, The Romance Reviews


Iris Blobel does a nice job drawing the charming, vintage feeling of Hobart for us in words with some beautifully descriptive language, putting in features that Hobart locals and even visitors will surely recognise like the Salamanca Markets, the Botanic Gardens and the way that Mount Wellington is always there as the backdrop to the city. - Reviewed by Caitlyn Lynch for Readers' Favorite


### From the Inside Flap


**Excerpt: **


Sophie Levesque stared at the attorney in front of her, waiting for some answers. She and her little sister, Mia, had been quietly sitting in Mr. O'Connor's office for more than half an hour, learning about the details of their inheritance.
Once he was finished, silence hung in the air before she asked with raised eyebrows. "Who?"
"Clara Catherine Bellinger."
Mia leaned closer to her elder sister and gave a soft tug on Sophie's shirt. "Who is she?"
Sophie shrugged. "I wouldn't have a clue." Then turned her attention back on Mr. O'Connor and asked the same thing. "Who is she?"
The handsome attorney on the other side of the massive desk leaned forward and rested his elbows on it before he started to repeat his earlier speech. Although hearing his words, Sophie still found it all very hard to comprehend. Here she was in this old office, furnished with heavy antique oak furniture, the curtains in a pretty shade of aubergine, and the carpet beneath her shoes thick and warm in a matching shade, hearing about an inheritance from someone she'd never even heard of.
Startled by the subtle sound of the clock chiming across the road, Sophie's gaze turned to the window, where she saw the post office building across the road. It looked impressive and old. It'd been only a few hours since they'd arrived in Hobart, the most southern capital in Australia, but she already liked it. A lot more than Sydney, the place she'd lived all her life.
Hauled back from her thoughts, she heard Mr.O'Connor say, "I believe she was a distant relative of yours. I'm afraid I don't have any further details."
Sophie arched an eyebrow in disbelief, doubting the accuracy of it all. Not only did she try not to question his competence as a lawyer, but she also hoped it wasn't a dreadful misunderstanding.
With a slight shrug of her shoulder, she asked,"Why not?"

Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.