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Paper Hearts & Summer Kisses
'I'm a Carole Matthews addict!' Mary Berry
A heart-warming and poignant novel of romance, family and second chances, Paper Hearts and Summer Kisses is Sunday Times bestselling Carole Matthews at her outstanding best. Perfect for fans of Jill Mansell and Milly Johnson.
Christie Chapman is a single working mother who spends her days commuting to her secretarial job in London and looking after her teenage son, Finn. It can be tough just getting through the day but Christie has always found comfort in her love of crafting and any spare time she has is spent in her parents' summerhouse working on her beautiful creations. From intricately designed birthday cards to personalised gifts, Christie's flair for the handmade knows no bounds and it's not long before opportunity comes knocking. All of a sudden Christie sees a different future for her and Finn - one full of hope and possibility, and if the handsome Max Alexander is to be believed, one full of love too. It's all there for the taking.
And then, all of sudden, Christie's world is turned upside down.
Christie knows that something has to give, but what will she choose? Will she give up her dreams and the chance of real love? What price will she pay for doing the right thing? Can Christie find her happy ending in . . . Paper Hearts and Summer Kisses.
A heart-warming and poignant novel of romance, family and second chances, Paper Hearts and Summer Kisses is Sunday Times bestselling Carole Matthews at her outstanding best. Perfect for fans of Jill Mansell and Milly Johnson.
Christie Chapman is a single working mother who spends her days commuting to her secretarial job in London and looking after her teenage son, Finn. It can be tough just getting through the day but Christie has always found comfort in her love of crafting and any spare time she has is spent in her parents' summerhouse working on her beautiful creations. From intricately designed birthday cards to personalised gifts, Christie's flair for the handmade knows no bounds and it's not long before opportunity comes knocking. All of a sudden Christie sees a different future for her and Finn - one full of hope and possibility, and if the handsome Max Alexander is to be believed, one full of love too. It's all there for the taking.
And then, all of sudden, Christie's world is turned upside down.
Christie knows that something has to give, but what will she choose? Will she give up her dreams and the chance of real love? What price will she pay for doing the right thing? Can Christie find her happy ending in . . . Paper Hearts and Summer Kisses.
432 pages, Paperback
First published April 20, 2017
221 people are currently reading
2037 people want to read
About the author
Carole Matthews
75 books1,718 followersCarole Matthews is an international bestselling author of hugely successful romantic comedy novels. Her unique sense of humour has won her legions of fans and critical acclaim all over the world.
A Minor Indiscretion and A Compromising Position both reached the Top 5 in the Sunday Times bestseller chart in the UK. You Drive Me Crazy reached number 8 in the original fiction charts. The novel Welcome To The Real World was shortlisted for RNA romantic novel of the year 2007.
In 2006 Carole co-edited - with writer Sarah Mlynowski - two new editions of the hugely popular Girls' Night In charity series called Girls' Night Out - one for the USA and one for Canada. All proceeds go to War Child.
Carole has presented on television and is a regular radio guest. When she’s not writing novels, television or film scripts she manages to find time to trek in the Himalayas, rollerblade in Central Park, take tea in China and snooze in her garden shed in Milton Keynes which is near London, England.
A Minor Indiscretion and A Compromising Position both reached the Top 5 in the Sunday Times bestseller chart in the UK. You Drive Me Crazy reached number 8 in the original fiction charts. The novel Welcome To The Real World was shortlisted for RNA romantic novel of the year 2007.
In 2006 Carole co-edited - with writer Sarah Mlynowski - two new editions of the hugely popular Girls' Night In charity series called Girls' Night Out - one for the USA and one for Canada. All proceeds go to War Child.
Carole has presented on television and is a regular radio guest. When she’s not writing novels, television or film scripts she manages to find time to trek in the Himalayas, rollerblade in Central Park, take tea in China and snooze in her garden shed in Milton Keynes which is near London, England.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 291 reviews
December 24, 2016
This would have been a lovely heartwarming story if it wasn't for the main character. Christie is a 42 year old working mother of Finn, her sickly 15 year old son. They have a special relationship which is both touching as well as a little saccharine. Christie's life is at times hard and throws her a few curve balls but she does show strength in dealing with them.
However, and this is my biggest complaint, why oh why did the author make Christie such a fuddy-duddy? The repetitive exclamations of "I'm a middle-aged woman" drove me nuts (what 40 year old says that any more?!), the lack of knowledge regarding social media, computers and the internet sent the character back to the 1950s, and the constant declarations of love for Finn: "my lovely boy", "my gorgeous child", "my beautiful boy", etc although sweet at first became increasingly annoying. Why couldn't she just call him Finn?!
This could have been a really nice story but the aspects that I found irritating were so frequently scattered throughout the book that I found myself tutting and rolling my eyes far too much to actually enjoy it.
However, and this is my biggest complaint, why oh why did the author make Christie such a fuddy-duddy? The repetitive exclamations of "I'm a middle-aged woman" drove me nuts (what 40 year old says that any more?!), the lack of knowledge regarding social media, computers and the internet sent the character back to the 1950s, and the constant declarations of love for Finn: "my lovely boy", "my gorgeous child", "my beautiful boy", etc although sweet at first became increasingly annoying. Why couldn't she just call him Finn?!
This could have been a really nice story but the aspects that I found irritating were so frequently scattered throughout the book that I found myself tutting and rolling my eyes far too much to actually enjoy it.
February 9, 2017
This book started out promising. It's written in the first person point of view of Christie, a 42 year old single mum with a teenager son. I nodded and agreed with just about all of her observations in the early part of the book. Then, somewhere around the 35% mark I found my interest waning.
Christie has a passion for crafting. She tries to juggle this crafting hobby around her 'real life' job as a PA in a solicitors' office. It's a job which involves a ridiculous amount of time commuting on a bus where she meets a potential suitor, Henry.
Soon, however, her apparently boring career and lovelife is given a boost when her mother puts her name forward to a huge US craft company. It ends up that she's not only offered a new job, but a place in its owner's, Max, bed also.
Now, I admit to knowing zero about craft companies, but I will admit to having issues with Max. I just found it very difficult to imagine a craft company flying their employees around the world and its owner living such an extravagant millionaire lifestyle. So, for me, Max's character slipped over into trashy romance territory far too many times.
Meanwhile, Christie's son is diagnosed with a serious illness. I'm not marking this a spoiler because it was predictable from page one. The outcome also was a little predictable. No tenterhooks with this storyline, I'm afraid.
I also wasn't anxious to learn just which man would win over the fair maiden. There was no chemistry between Christie and either leading man, in my opinion. I wasn't rushing to turn the pages as one should when reading.
I've got to point out that I can't even sew on a button, and craft isn't something I've ever done (not even when my kids were kindy/preschool age). Despite that, I want to make it clear that the passages dedicated to describing what craft project Christie was carrying out at various times didn't have any bearing on my rating. If you are into crafts you'll probably be in heaven. If you're like me and have no interest, you should know those scenes aren't too intense.
It was the romance that didn't work for me and that would help in a chick lit/romance novel. And unfortunately, overall, I didn't really find Christie an appealing heroine either.
3 out of 5
Christie has a passion for crafting. She tries to juggle this crafting hobby around her 'real life' job as a PA in a solicitors' office. It's a job which involves a ridiculous amount of time commuting on a bus where she meets a potential suitor, Henry.
Soon, however, her apparently boring career and lovelife is given a boost when her mother puts her name forward to a huge US craft company. It ends up that she's not only offered a new job, but a place in its owner's, Max, bed also.
Now, I admit to knowing zero about craft companies, but I will admit to having issues with Max. I just found it very difficult to imagine a craft company flying their employees around the world and its owner living such an extravagant millionaire lifestyle. So, for me, Max's character slipped over into trashy romance territory far too many times.
Meanwhile, Christie's son is diagnosed with a serious illness. I'm not marking this a spoiler because it was predictable from page one. The outcome also was a little predictable. No tenterhooks with this storyline, I'm afraid.
I also wasn't anxious to learn just which man would win over the fair maiden. There was no chemistry between Christie and either leading man, in my opinion. I wasn't rushing to turn the pages as one should when reading.
I've got to point out that I can't even sew on a button, and craft isn't something I've ever done (not even when my kids were kindy/preschool age). Despite that, I want to make it clear that the passages dedicated to describing what craft project Christie was carrying out at various times didn't have any bearing on my rating. If you are into crafts you'll probably be in heaven. If you're like me and have no interest, you should know those scenes aren't too intense.
It was the romance that didn't work for me and that would help in a chick lit/romance novel. And unfortunately, overall, I didn't really find Christie an appealing heroine either.
3 out of 5
May 7, 2020
Aussie Readers Beware...
This is the story of a Whingeing Pom...
An obnoxious Whingeing Pom called Christie Chapman.
She's everything we Antipodeans despise in a Whingeing Pom.
No doubt British author Carole Matthews wrote Christie to be rather humorous, a little tongue-in-cheek, a little quirky, a little needy. Christie might appeal to other British people, British female readers (let's face it, centuries-long whingeing is in built into the UK DNA.)
This red-blooded Aussie thought she was a very unattractive lead character, and one who certainly did not induce me to keep reading through 300-odd pages of her self-indulgent story.
By page 68-69 I'd had enough, and despite the restrictions on movement around the community due to the current Coronavirus pandemic, I simply had to dash back to the return chute at my local library ASAP to get this tedious tale out of my life. It is as toxic to the mind as COVID-19 is to the body.
This is the story of a Whingeing Pom...
An obnoxious Whingeing Pom called Christie Chapman.
She's everything we Antipodeans despise in a Whingeing Pom.
No doubt British author Carole Matthews wrote Christie to be rather humorous, a little tongue-in-cheek, a little quirky, a little needy. Christie might appeal to other British people, British female readers (let's face it, centuries-long whingeing is in built into the UK DNA.)
This red-blooded Aussie thought she was a very unattractive lead character, and one who certainly did not induce me to keep reading through 300-odd pages of her self-indulgent story.
By page 68-69 I'd had enough, and despite the restrictions on movement around the community due to the current Coronavirus pandemic, I simply had to dash back to the return chute at my local library ASAP to get this tedious tale out of my life. It is as toxic to the mind as COVID-19 is to the body.
April 18, 2021
It was so lovely to read a novel set around crafting! A very enjoyable read, everything you expect from a Carole Matthews book.
April 13, 2017
Carole Matthews has been on my auto - buy list of authors for a few good years already. Sometimes her books are good, more than often they are better than good but there is one thing certain - she always delivers a beautiful story that tugs at your heart strings, that make you smile and cry, that make you start to believe that the world can be a better place.
I personally think that it is one of the best Carole Matthews' books. It is full of her charming, warm writing, down - to - earth heroine wrestling with problems hitting her left and right, but a heroine that never gives up. It is full of this trademark Carole Matthews' humour, poignant moments and situations that you can easily relate to. There were moments that I was thinking, oh my, how much Christie is going to hold on, how many awful news are going to strike her and I truly fell for her. I just wanted to keep reading this story, to see what's going to happen and maybe it's going to sound funny to you but I also wanted to give Christie and Finn standing ovation for being so strong.
A gorgeous, down to earth read where you immediately feel at home, you feel as if you knew the characters and you want to help them. Moreover, you may have a feeling that you know what's going to happen, that you can predict the outcome but you are wrong - the author throws surprise after surprise and I more than often gasped in shock, more than often wanted to drop a tear or two, more than often wanted to pat the characters on their shoulders and tell them I am there for them - and it doesn't happen often that I feel the need to talk to the characters! Because, as usually, the characters in Ms Matthews' books are brilliantly drawn. I immediately fell for them all and kept everything crossed for them. Finn was great - suffering from really bad headaches, not being able to enjoy his life to the full and not finding doctor's help almost till it was too late. I admired him how brave he is through this all, how calm and stoical, not making use of the situation only clenching his teeth and going on. Christie is a very ordinary woman and I think this is what makes her instantly so likeable. She has to commute to London to earn her money, she has a 15 - year old son that she has to support. One of the things that makes her happy is crafting and her evenings and any spare time is being spent on creating cards that she can then sell to improve her finances. Boring? No. Ordinary and normal - yes, and I couldn't help but fell for her immediately. Seeing her struggle I just wanted to hug her and tell everything will be all right. But will it be? Also, Christie and Finn were incredibly close, also with Christie's parents living around the corner and they made a really nice close knit group.
Yes, there were moments that the book was slow, that all that happened was Christie commuting and complaining about her job but you know what? It didn't bother me at all. It was all told in such a human, realistic way that you could easily relate with her and her problems and it was all so genuine and honest and actually it could have been me, you or any other person. Yes, the end was a tad bit saccharine and I would love such chances in my own life but it just somehow sat with me and all those ups and downs in Christie's life made me like her more.
I am not a crafter. I can do some arts and crafts with the children in kindergarten, I can glue something together but all the things that Carole Matthews writes about in her story are like a higher level of mathematics to me. However, I do admire people who can create such gorgeous things and I would give lots of my things to be able to create such beautiful cards and other wonders. I loved to see how creative Christie is and how she could trickle in ideas based on the few materials that she had at her disposal. Those ideas were described in a very detailed way but I couldn't have enough of them, guys.
But this story is not only about crafting. There is of course a bit of sparkling romance as well and the issue about Finn's health and this all created a lovely, compelling novel. It is full of emotions, ups and downs, a story about family relationships, friendship, new beginnings and second chances. Wonderful, warm, uplifting book - highly recommended.
Copy provided by the publisher in return for an honest review.
May 21, 2021
Christie and Finn win me over as a reader from the start. I love how the main relationship in this book is between a mother and son. It is captured perfectly throughout all the ups and downs in the book. It had the right mix of laughter, love and heartbreak. My heart broke for Finn with his health scares and problems. I also like Christie's relationship with her parents and the handsome Max who is not just handsome on the outside but even more so on the inside. 4.5 Stars
June 25, 2017
Superb book on second chances and strength... Loved the bond between mother and her son.. This book teaches how to be strong even on the face of problems... Loved carole matthews writing. My first book of hers. Will recommend her books for everyone
April 25, 2017
Although this book is a charming, sweet and creative little book, I did find a few things a little annoying...
On the whole I really enjoyed the book. I love Carole's work. But about 3/4 of the way through I got a little bored. I didn't particularly like Finn and couldn't empathise with his character. Maybe I'm not accustomed to that sort of relationship but I don't know any teenager who speaks to their mum like Finn does and vice versa. That's my only gripe. It just grated on me.
I was totally rooting for Henry too :( How disappointing that his character was built up the way it was to just fall flat.
I don't like being negative because I genuinely enjoyed the book on the whole. I read half of it whilst I was on holiday and it started off brilliantly.
The cover is gorgeous and I loved the idea of Christie being a craft designer - that part made me smile because I enjoy decorating cakes as a hobby and could see myself in that part of the character.
Despite my (seemingly petty) gripes, it's a lovely read. 3 stars!
On the whole I really enjoyed the book. I love Carole's work. But about 3/4 of the way through I got a little bored. I didn't particularly like Finn and couldn't empathise with his character. Maybe I'm not accustomed to that sort of relationship but I don't know any teenager who speaks to their mum like Finn does and vice versa. That's my only gripe. It just grated on me.
I was totally rooting for Henry too :( How disappointing that his character was built up the way it was to just fall flat.
I don't like being negative because I genuinely enjoyed the book on the whole. I read half of it whilst I was on holiday and it started off brilliantly.
The cover is gorgeous and I loved the idea of Christie being a craft designer - that part made me smile because I enjoy decorating cakes as a hobby and could see myself in that part of the character.
Despite my (seemingly petty) gripes, it's a lovely read. 3 stars!
January 1, 2017
I am into crafts and have been wanting to read this. I loved all the characters and it was going great.guns but sadly the need to bring a traumatic occasion slap bang in the middle ruined it for me despite the outcome. I love Carole Matthews books but I am tired of so many authors feeling the need to use life threatening illnesses in storylines. There is enough in real life and we look to read to escape such things. So many parts of it were just a bit unreal and far fetched..only wish my own life ended with such fairytales. Aside from that this is not a bad review as it was enjoyable and kept me going over the Christmas period.
March 12, 2018
Carol Matthews never lets you down with her books each one just improves. This had me hooked from the first page and just wanted to read more it's full of romance, second chances, families and crafts and has you heartbroken at times as well. So well written and can you really get the happy ending you really want.
Christie is a single mum and trying to hold down a job in London and has to commute so her parents help out with her son but to relax she enjoys crafting and spends all her spare time working on new creations. An opportunity comes her way after her mums sends some of her work off but means she has to go to America and she doesn't like leaving her son especially when he's so tired and she feels something is wrong. She meets max and begins to think she can make a new future for her and Finn but her world is turned upside down by Finn being ill and she shuts herself away and does she give up on all her dreams or not and can she make things with max or has she blown it altogether. A great read highly recommend.
Christie is a single mum and trying to hold down a job in London and has to commute so her parents help out with her son but to relax she enjoys crafting and spends all her spare time working on new creations. An opportunity comes her way after her mums sends some of her work off but means she has to go to America and she doesn't like leaving her son especially when he's so tired and she feels something is wrong. She meets max and begins to think she can make a new future for her and Finn but her world is turned upside down by Finn being ill and she shuts herself away and does she give up on all her dreams or not and can she make things with max or has she blown it altogether. A great read highly recommend.
August 30, 2017
It's been ages since I have read a book from Carole Matthews and I don't really know why that has been the case. I really enjoy her books and there was a time when I first discovered her writing many years ago that I literally gobbled up her books one after the other. Paper Hearts and Summer Kisses, her latest book, has been sat languishing on my Kindle for far too long and so I decided to give it a go. No sooner had I gotten past the first chapter when I was reminded just how much I love Carole's books and why this coming September she will have written 30 books in twenty years and has such a loyal following of fans. This book just embraced me like a warm hug and didn't let me out of its hold until I reluctantly finished the last word. I just got such a good feeling from it and from the main characters that I soon settled quickly into the flow of the story. All the characters were so perfectly written and the sense of a supportive family, of love and friendship and striving to get through the worst of times against all the odds came across so well. It was an uplifting, cosy read with warm loveable characters that had me kicking myself over the fact I left it so long to actually read it.
Christie Chapman is a single parent to 15 year old Finn, having been divorced from Liam for five years. They are a tight unit of two and this togetherness really radiates from the pages. What a joy to read of a mother/son relationship that doesn't involve a grumpy teenager who doesn't connect with their mother at all instead barely uttering two words to her unless to start a fight over going out etc. I was so glad to read of something different and the special bond and relationship shared between Christie and Finn was just beautiful. Finn had such respect for Christie knowing she was on her own and doing the best she could for him. She couldn’t always provide everything he may have wanted but she does what she can and endures the daily two hour commute back and forth to London to work all for him. Christie absolutely adores Finn and I know you'd think of course she would he is her son but the way Carole wrote this story showed Christie would bend over backwards for the light of her life. Finn is what makes her get up at the crack of dawn every morning even though at times she would rather remain huddled under the duvet. Amidst her life of routine and predictability Finn is the one thing Christie knows she can be proud of.
Despite being a single mum Christie had the most fantastic support from her parents. They couldn't do enough to help Finn and herself and in other books it may have come across that Christie was taking advantage of her parents but here it didn't in the slightest. It just felt like the rapport shared between Finn and Christie extended to her parents and it was just so lovely to see. Her Mum and Dad provided plenty of laugh out loud moments and were quite frank in their humour, yet at all times they were there with a kind word for Christie to boost her confidence. They looked after Finn whenever needed and when the worst happens they don't fall apart instead gather themselves together with even more strength of character and love than before and this cemented my feelings that they were just a wonderful couple who always wanted the best for their daughter.
Christie always seemed to be so tired with her commute. There was a brief 'flirtation' as such with a fellow companion on the bus journey but I felt it could have been left out of the book. This was the only slight thing I wasn't overly keen on in the book. She is a PA in a legal firm but can't say she loves her job. It helps pay the bills but is it really what she wants to be doing for the rest of her life especially if it means an endless routine that by the weekend leaves you dog tired and not fit for much else bar sitting on the sofa. Christie's real passion lay with paper crafting an indulgence she shares with her mum. I don't know much about paper crafting bar watching shows on QVC years ago when they used to feature it. So all the terminology was new to me but Carole didn't make it feel like I was getting a lesson in all things paper craft and it became interesting to see how Christie could lose so many hours making beautiful cards and other bits. Christie really came to life when she could spend time creating and crafting. It put to the back of her mind that little niggle of doubt and discontentment that there was things she had always wanted to do but now will never be afforded the chance to do so.
Thanks to the secret actions of her mother opportunity presents itself at her door in the form of handsome American Max Alexander. He runs a crafting business creating all the paper and equipment you could ever need. He wants to branch out into the UK market and employs Christie to create crafts from his materials. Christie can't believe her luck and before she knows it she is whisked away to America for training. Whilst there it's like her dream has come true and life on the bus is but a distant memory. Things on the romantic front take a slight turn for the better too. It was brilliant to see something positive happening for Christie as I felt she was a worrier and carried burdens on her shoulders. She never allowed herself to relax and enjoy the moment and take time for herself. Max on the other hand I didn't know what to make of him, it all just seemed to good to be true that things would happen so quickly for Christie with her crafting. I just had this sense/ feeling about him but I really was foolish to do so. I thought he had ulterior motives and that it would cause nothing but heartbreak on a personal level and real upset on a professional level for Christie. I couldn't have been more off track and felt really guilty for feeling this way and this never happens me with a book. Regrading the situation with Finn, I had my suspicions as to what was going on and was proven correct but this storyline was handled with tact and sensitivity and the way it was dealt with and the emotions that spilled forth were realistic and very apt.
Paper Hearts and Summer Kisses was an absolute pleasure to read from start to finish. I haven't connected with a book so well for a long time and I just fell completely in love with the characters. It is an emotional read at times but is balanced to perfection by the abundance of humour and not to mention all the paper crafting. It was clear how much Carole enjoyed writing this book and I even saw it feature in the top five of her favourite books that she has written. It's definitely a book that I wouldn't hesitate to recommended and despite the fact it took me some time to get around to it, it only means I have a shorter time to wait for her next book as Christmas Cakes and Mistletoe Nights will be with us near the end of October.
Christie Chapman is a single parent to 15 year old Finn, having been divorced from Liam for five years. They are a tight unit of two and this togetherness really radiates from the pages. What a joy to read of a mother/son relationship that doesn't involve a grumpy teenager who doesn't connect with their mother at all instead barely uttering two words to her unless to start a fight over going out etc. I was so glad to read of something different and the special bond and relationship shared between Christie and Finn was just beautiful. Finn had such respect for Christie knowing she was on her own and doing the best she could for him. She couldn’t always provide everything he may have wanted but she does what she can and endures the daily two hour commute back and forth to London to work all for him. Christie absolutely adores Finn and I know you'd think of course she would he is her son but the way Carole wrote this story showed Christie would bend over backwards for the light of her life. Finn is what makes her get up at the crack of dawn every morning even though at times she would rather remain huddled under the duvet. Amidst her life of routine and predictability Finn is the one thing Christie knows she can be proud of.
Despite being a single mum Christie had the most fantastic support from her parents. They couldn't do enough to help Finn and herself and in other books it may have come across that Christie was taking advantage of her parents but here it didn't in the slightest. It just felt like the rapport shared between Finn and Christie extended to her parents and it was just so lovely to see. Her Mum and Dad provided plenty of laugh out loud moments and were quite frank in their humour, yet at all times they were there with a kind word for Christie to boost her confidence. They looked after Finn whenever needed and when the worst happens they don't fall apart instead gather themselves together with even more strength of character and love than before and this cemented my feelings that they were just a wonderful couple who always wanted the best for their daughter.
Christie always seemed to be so tired with her commute. There was a brief 'flirtation' as such with a fellow companion on the bus journey but I felt it could have been left out of the book. This was the only slight thing I wasn't overly keen on in the book. She is a PA in a legal firm but can't say she loves her job. It helps pay the bills but is it really what she wants to be doing for the rest of her life especially if it means an endless routine that by the weekend leaves you dog tired and not fit for much else bar sitting on the sofa. Christie's real passion lay with paper crafting an indulgence she shares with her mum. I don't know much about paper crafting bar watching shows on QVC years ago when they used to feature it. So all the terminology was new to me but Carole didn't make it feel like I was getting a lesson in all things paper craft and it became interesting to see how Christie could lose so many hours making beautiful cards and other bits. Christie really came to life when she could spend time creating and crafting. It put to the back of her mind that little niggle of doubt and discontentment that there was things she had always wanted to do but now will never be afforded the chance to do so.
Thanks to the secret actions of her mother opportunity presents itself at her door in the form of handsome American Max Alexander. He runs a crafting business creating all the paper and equipment you could ever need. He wants to branch out into the UK market and employs Christie to create crafts from his materials. Christie can't believe her luck and before she knows it she is whisked away to America for training. Whilst there it's like her dream has come true and life on the bus is but a distant memory. Things on the romantic front take a slight turn for the better too. It was brilliant to see something positive happening for Christie as I felt she was a worrier and carried burdens on her shoulders. She never allowed herself to relax and enjoy the moment and take time for herself. Max on the other hand I didn't know what to make of him, it all just seemed to good to be true that things would happen so quickly for Christie with her crafting. I just had this sense/ feeling about him but I really was foolish to do so. I thought he had ulterior motives and that it would cause nothing but heartbreak on a personal level and real upset on a professional level for Christie. I couldn't have been more off track and felt really guilty for feeling this way and this never happens me with a book. Regrading the situation with Finn, I had my suspicions as to what was going on and was proven correct but this storyline was handled with tact and sensitivity and the way it was dealt with and the emotions that spilled forth were realistic and very apt.
Paper Hearts and Summer Kisses was an absolute pleasure to read from start to finish. I haven't connected with a book so well for a long time and I just fell completely in love with the characters. It is an emotional read at times but is balanced to perfection by the abundance of humour and not to mention all the paper crafting. It was clear how much Carole enjoyed writing this book and I even saw it feature in the top five of her favourite books that she has written. It's definitely a book that I wouldn't hesitate to recommended and despite the fact it took me some time to get around to it, it only means I have a shorter time to wait for her next book as Christmas Cakes and Mistletoe Nights will be with us near the end of October.
March 10, 2017
Easily my most favourite Carole Matthews book of all time. I seriously think this may be the best book she has ever written, and given I enjoy almost everything by this author, I think that says somethings.
I have been taken on the most fantastic fictional journey, during the course of the book I have laughed, I have smiled, I have been almost in tears, I have had to google just what crafting dies look like, and die cutting machines (still not sure I get it), I have been incredibly impressed with Finn and what he has to deal with and I have been completely absorbed for most of the second half of the book, and I'm just glad I don't have to get up in the morning, as its really late! - I just didn't notice the time nor care, as I was focused on finding out what happened next.
Quite early into the book I was convinced that I could have predicted every last outcome, as it starts off in the same manner as a lot of similar books that I have read...but then as it continues I am delighted to say that I was completely and utterly wrong. There seems to be a new depth and maturity to the already brilliant story telling abilities of the author,
Although I am not a crafter, I am in awe of those mega creative people that can conjure up magnificent projects from a few materials. Admittedly my lack of crafting knowledge was a slight problem at times, especially while elements of Christie's big break are coming to fruition, where I could have done with googling for a lot of the crafting equipment to fully try to understand (I may just go watch a craft station instead!)
That being said the ideas and projects that were described in great detail, I could get a pretty good idea of in my imagination, so I wasn't completely in the dark.
However my favourite story line was Finn. He is a regular teenager, perhaps a bit of a mummy's boy, but has health problems. Frustratingly although it is clear he is ill, the cause is staying hidden, so Christie and Finn suffer plenty of annoyance at the health care system. I am in awe of Finn and loved the way he developed over the course of the book.
There is so much more I could say, but I'd rather leave you to enjoy this book for yourself, and partly because I am running out of superlatives to describe Paper Hearts and Summer Kisses.
Thank you to Netgalley and Sphere for this copy of the book which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
July 16, 2024
*Second Chances*
**3.5-4 Stars**
I quite enjoyed this book and found it engaging. The saddest part for me is how after her marriage break down which was amicable the main character Christie just disappeared into herself. Her main focus was her son Finn and her life revolved around Finn, her work and crafting. She is very fortunate to have her parents close by who are enormously helpful and supportive.
Christie has a date with a man who she meets on her daily bus trip whose idea of a first date was going to a Alpaca 🦙 farm, what could go wrong??? lol 🤣 but for me the funniest part was her exchanges with her son when he says “does he think Alpacas is where it’s at?” 🤣
We also see Christie’s world about to fall apart when a serious illness hits her world. She also decides to enter a craft competition and abandons the idea but, someone enters the competition on her behalf and it becomes the start of her finding herself and is there romance on the cards???….
**3.5-4 Stars**
I quite enjoyed this book and found it engaging. The saddest part for me is how after her marriage break down which was amicable the main character Christie just disappeared into herself. Her main focus was her son Finn and her life revolved around Finn, her work and crafting. She is very fortunate to have her parents close by who are enormously helpful and supportive.
Christie has a date with a man who she meets on her daily bus trip whose idea of a first date was going to a Alpaca 🦙 farm, what could go wrong??? lol 🤣 but for me the funniest part was her exchanges with her son when he says “does he think Alpacas is where it’s at?” 🤣
We also see Christie’s world about to fall apart when a serious illness hits her world. She also decides to enter a craft competition and abandons the idea but, someone enters the competition on her behalf and it becomes the start of her finding herself and is there romance on the cards???….
December 12, 2017
Carole Matthews is one of my favourite authors and this book had me completely lost in the wonderful story with a crafting theme, playing with paper! Christie is a very talented crafter and her hobby gives her the chance to turn her life upside down. I loved all the crafting references and could imagine myself there having such fun. I’d love to be so creative.
I loved the characters- Carole always creates such well rounded and believable characters. Christie is in her 40’s and we learn that you can embrace change at this age .
I loved the characters- Carole always creates such well rounded and believable characters. Christie is in her 40’s and we learn that you can embrace change at this age .
November 23, 2017
It is always nice to read a book where you just get to enjoy the characters, let the story swallow you up and leaves you smiling and in a happier frame of mind! And this is exactly what this book does!!
Full of fabulous characters that you have immediate empathy with combined with a backdrop of crafting and the reality of day to day life and all that entails, it was just pure escapism and I loved it!
Full of fabulous characters that you have immediate empathy with combined with a backdrop of crafting and the reality of day to day life and all that entails, it was just pure escapism and I loved it!
July 16, 2018
I really enjoyed this book I put off reading it for a while but I’m really glad I gave it a chance. This book really makes me want to be crafty and get back into making cards etc.
I really felt bad for Christie, she tried so hard at the beginning to ensure her and her son were okay but every time she turned around something bad was thrown at her. Her parents were amazing always helping out and even making dinner for her as they knew how awful her commute to London was every day. I am glad her mum submitted her work to a craft company though. So amazing. Such a great book just a little slow at certain points.
I really felt bad for Christie, she tried so hard at the beginning to ensure her and her son were okay but every time she turned around something bad was thrown at her. Her parents were amazing always helping out and even making dinner for her as they knew how awful her commute to London was every day. I am glad her mum submitted her work to a craft company though. So amazing. Such a great book just a little slow at certain points.
September 2, 2017
Listened via Audible. I did nearly give up at the beginning as I struggled to relate with Christy as we are similar ages and alike in a lot of ways but she felt a bit wet, old fashioned and sappy. As a soap maker and crafter I enjoyed the business parts of the book and loved her relationship with her parents. Finns illness was interesting and difficult at times and not the normal fluffy novel story line. I loved the romance story for Finn and seeing him blossom was lovely. The good outweighed the bad and I enjoyed the second half much more. Although unrealistic and very fairytale it was a super sweet ending and a few laugh out loud lines thrown in too. I think it was the narrator and the tone the lines were delivered in that I struggled with and a bit too much my sweet boy this and my baby that etc. Overall a 3.5 from me.
September 4, 2017
Absolutely loved this book, a lovely story with a happy ending. This is the best book I've read by Carole Mathews.
March 3, 2019
A lovely easy read. Perfect book for curling up with a mug of hot chocolate. I loved the relationship between Christie and her son Finn and the relationship they both had with Christie’s parents. A wonderful read.
February 13, 2017
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for this review copy.
Very excited to receive Carole’s latest offering – I have loved all of her books so far. We meet Christie, a 40 odd year old single mum who is a legal secretary and keen paper-crafter! She commutes 2 hours by coach every day to London and her life, when she eventually gets home, evolves around her son, her parents and her hobby. Her mum, also a keen crafter, enters Christie for a competition to become a designer for an American craft company. She wins and is given the opportunity to go on a ‘retreat’ organised by the company to try out their products and learn new skills. The only problem is it’s in America and she worries about leaving Finn, her 15 year old son. She eventually agrees to leave him with her parents, and whilst she is in America she meets the CEO of the company, Max, and falls head over heels. Unfortunately, as normal in these books, true love never runs a smooth course, and Christie does the sensible thing and lets her head rule her heart. Upon returning home, her world is turned upside down with some devastating news.
I loved this book! I didn’t realise till I started to read this book that it had a ‘crafting’ theme – namely paper crafts (I know, the title should have given it away!). I used to, many years ago, make my own cards, so this book has bought so many memories of fond times sat there surrounded by paper, card and sticky embellishments! It got me thinking I would start it all again, but quickly pushed that thought to the very back of my mind – just haven’t got the time, space, money or inclination anymore! But, it was wonderful to think about it all again!!
The whole setting of the book is lovely – the comfortable home life and then the bright lights of living the jet set lifestyle. What I would have given to be Christie flying across the Atlantic to spend the week crafting!! I loved the character of Christie, although you could be forgiven for thinking she was a bit ‘dull’ or boring, but I think that is how the character should have started out, as it gives Christie time to grow and shine into the person she is at the end of the book. The book made me laugh (just imagining Alpacas!) and made me cry. Whilst you know how these stories tend to turn out, it was still a wonderful read and kept me page turning right till the end.
Read this book and lose yourself in a world of love, family, heartache and glitter! Five stars!
Very excited to receive Carole’s latest offering – I have loved all of her books so far. We meet Christie, a 40 odd year old single mum who is a legal secretary and keen paper-crafter! She commutes 2 hours by coach every day to London and her life, when she eventually gets home, evolves around her son, her parents and her hobby. Her mum, also a keen crafter, enters Christie for a competition to become a designer for an American craft company. She wins and is given the opportunity to go on a ‘retreat’ organised by the company to try out their products and learn new skills. The only problem is it’s in America and she worries about leaving Finn, her 15 year old son. She eventually agrees to leave him with her parents, and whilst she is in America she meets the CEO of the company, Max, and falls head over heels. Unfortunately, as normal in these books, true love never runs a smooth course, and Christie does the sensible thing and lets her head rule her heart. Upon returning home, her world is turned upside down with some devastating news.
I loved this book! I didn’t realise till I started to read this book that it had a ‘crafting’ theme – namely paper crafts (I know, the title should have given it away!). I used to, many years ago, make my own cards, so this book has bought so many memories of fond times sat there surrounded by paper, card and sticky embellishments! It got me thinking I would start it all again, but quickly pushed that thought to the very back of my mind – just haven’t got the time, space, money or inclination anymore! But, it was wonderful to think about it all again!!
The whole setting of the book is lovely – the comfortable home life and then the bright lights of living the jet set lifestyle. What I would have given to be Christie flying across the Atlantic to spend the week crafting!! I loved the character of Christie, although you could be forgiven for thinking she was a bit ‘dull’ or boring, but I think that is how the character should have started out, as it gives Christie time to grow and shine into the person she is at the end of the book. The book made me laugh (just imagining Alpacas!) and made me cry. Whilst you know how these stories tend to turn out, it was still a wonderful read and kept me page turning right till the end.
Read this book and lose yourself in a world of love, family, heartache and glitter! Five stars!
March 17, 2017
What a great book!!! I am so happy to have read another book by Carole Matthews! Carole is my favorite author for several years now and I was really excited to read her new book. First of all, let's appreciate this beautiful and bright cover! so lovely! Then the story... once again I fell in love with the characters... Carole always write about women who struggle in their everyday life and who do everything they can to have a better one. This time it's about Christie who is a working single mom who tries to juggle between her work, her son who has some health issues, her non-existent love live, and her passion, paper-crafting. She is very talented in paper-crafting and one day she has a huge opportunity opening to herself in that field... What a great story! and of course there is a very handsome man playing a big part in the book... of course! ;-) - What I really liked also is that I felt a lot of different emotions while reading, I felt happy and I also felt sad or even really sad, and feeling stong emotions while reading a book is for me the most important. THank you Carole Matthews for another great book! you really are my favorite author of all times! I hope you will keep writing lovely stories about women for a very long time!
February 7, 2017
Christie Chapman is very ordinary and it's what makes her so likeable. She does a ridiculously long commute into London to earn the money to support herself and her 15 year old son Finn. Her ex-husband lives in Dubai with his new family but luckily for her, her parents live reasonably close to her and give her all the support she needs. Her evenings, weekends and any spare moment she finds is spent not partying or drinking, it's spent crafting and watching the Crafting Channel. SO far, so ordinary...right? Well yes, and that's what makes it so enjoyable. I reckon a good 70-80% of 'ordinary' people live ordinary lives so as a reader it's nice to read about people that are also ordinary. Christie and her son and parents are a close knit group and her Mum and Dad were just as enjoyable to read about. Finn was a great character although I am quite convinced I don't know any teenage boy of that age that is THAT nice.
Before long, an opportunity comes along and her Mum takes matters into her own hands opening up a massive opportunity for Christie. Unfortunately for her, the dreams she has may not even be a remote possibility when something serious happens. This story is certainly bitter sweet but was an absolute joy to read. There are many scenarios for Christie and I willed things to work out for her, especially when not one, but two men make an appearance in her life in one way or another. The story swept me along and I was totally and utterly engrossed.
The one thing I did notice which made a massively refreshing change was towards the end I thought I had it all planned out, but I was wrong. Carole Matthews was clever with the ending, giving the readers what they wanted, but not quite how you imagined it would be (if that makes sense). I loved it as it was more of a realistic wrap up and I finished it thinking...maybe that could happen to somebody out there! With Carole Matthews being an author I have read since my late teens, my habits appear not to have changed and with her writing better books than ever year after year, it appears I am a dedicated and lifelong fan...for very good reason! If you haven't read a Carole Matthews, seriously you don't know what you are missing!
Before long, an opportunity comes along and her Mum takes matters into her own hands opening up a massive opportunity for Christie. Unfortunately for her, the dreams she has may not even be a remote possibility when something serious happens. This story is certainly bitter sweet but was an absolute joy to read. There are many scenarios for Christie and I willed things to work out for her, especially when not one, but two men make an appearance in her life in one way or another. The story swept me along and I was totally and utterly engrossed.
The one thing I did notice which made a massively refreshing change was towards the end I thought I had it all planned out, but I was wrong. Carole Matthews was clever with the ending, giving the readers what they wanted, but not quite how you imagined it would be (if that makes sense). I loved it as it was more of a realistic wrap up and I finished it thinking...maybe that could happen to somebody out there! With Carole Matthews being an author I have read since my late teens, my habits appear not to have changed and with her writing better books than ever year after year, it appears I am a dedicated and lifelong fan...for very good reason! If you haven't read a Carole Matthews, seriously you don't know what you are missing!
May 11, 2017
http://www.jerasjamboree.co.uk/2017/0...
Carole Matthews writes in a first person narrative so well, drawing you in from the beginning with characters that are relatable. Before I’d even turned the first page I was nodding along, identifying with Christie and already emotionally invested in the story.
Paper Hearts and Summer Kisses has a real family at its heart. With her mum and dad a big part of Christie and Finn’s life they’re involved in supporting them through the mundanity of everyday life and of course when the conflict comes, they’re a part of that too. Not only did I feel for Christie and Finn but them too! So much emotion.
Loved Finn! and the relationship he has with mum Christie (my eldest calls me Mother – couldn’t help but smile). This story is as much about him as it is about the romance. I felt the frustration with school and even how much he missed Liam. The fear was palpable too. I so wanted everything to be ok and several times wasn’t sure how things would go. It’s not often I want to scan ahead to see if I can relax a bit but I had to curb the urge as I really didn’t want to spoil it.
Of course Carole Matthews’ humour is a part of the story too. The date with Henry (although I felt sorry for Christie) was so funny. For Max I would have done absolutely anything … Christie was such an inspiration! I’m not sure I would have made the choices she made 🙂
What an ending. I do love a bit of pizzazz and sparkle.
Paper Hearts and Summer Kisses was an inspiring read. I probably don’t need to say it but I enjoyed the papercrafting theme as much as the ping on my heartstrings. If you have an opportunity you’re scared of taking or a challenge coming up, the Chapman family will lift you up and give you hope. This story will appeal to a wide audience and I have no hesitation in recommending you pick up a copy.
Carole Matthews writes in a first person narrative so well, drawing you in from the beginning with characters that are relatable. Before I’d even turned the first page I was nodding along, identifying with Christie and already emotionally invested in the story.
Paper Hearts and Summer Kisses has a real family at its heart. With her mum and dad a big part of Christie and Finn’s life they’re involved in supporting them through the mundanity of everyday life and of course when the conflict comes, they’re a part of that too. Not only did I feel for Christie and Finn but them too! So much emotion.
Loved Finn! and the relationship he has with mum Christie (my eldest calls me Mother – couldn’t help but smile). This story is as much about him as it is about the romance. I felt the frustration with school and even how much he missed Liam. The fear was palpable too. I so wanted everything to be ok and several times wasn’t sure how things would go. It’s not often I want to scan ahead to see if I can relax a bit but I had to curb the urge as I really didn’t want to spoil it.
Of course Carole Matthews’ humour is a part of the story too. The date with Henry (although I felt sorry for Christie) was so funny. For Max I would have done absolutely anything … Christie was such an inspiration! I’m not sure I would have made the choices she made 🙂
What an ending. I do love a bit of pizzazz and sparkle.
Paper Hearts and Summer Kisses was an inspiring read. I probably don’t need to say it but I enjoyed the papercrafting theme as much as the ping on my heartstrings. If you have an opportunity you’re scared of taking or a challenge coming up, the Chapman family will lift you up and give you hope. This story will appeal to a wide audience and I have no hesitation in recommending you pick up a copy.
February 13, 2017
Tried to give it a 3.5 but couldn't make that work.
Book is good. Setting up of the business is what I wanted to read. Not all the romance rubbish, that it totally fake and would never happen in real life.
Our heroine is completely wet and wimpy and on audiobook she has a silly little girl voice. Constant references to her being homely and ordinary and her close relationship with son and parents (as if that is someone wrong). But she is way OTT and claustrophobic about her son.
There is an investigation to be done in the book. When the diagnosis is revealed Christie says it's the last thing she thought of. Well it was the first thing I thought of. It made her character appear stupid.
The ridiculous happy ending was just so maddening.
Sadly I guess as long as we buy these books, the authors will not read the reviews which ask for more realism and less fake romance.
Book is good. Setting up of the business is what I wanted to read. Not all the romance rubbish, that it totally fake and would never happen in real life.
Our heroine is completely wet and wimpy and on audiobook she has a silly little girl voice. Constant references to her being homely and ordinary and her close relationship with son and parents (as if that is someone wrong). But she is way OTT and claustrophobic about her son.
There is an investigation to be done in the book. When the diagnosis is revealed Christie says it's the last thing she thought of. Well it was the first thing I thought of. It made her character appear stupid.
The ridiculous happy ending was just so maddening.
Sadly I guess as long as we buy these books, the authors will not read the reviews which ask for more realism and less fake romance.
April 18, 2017
I enjoyed this book to a certain extent, although the romance element wasn't really there, Henry was boring, and Max mostly unavailable, and it did also start a little slow. I also noticed a few little mistakes, which was very unusual for this author, one major one being, instead of Sheridan Singleton, Sheridan Smith was mentioned. That confused me at first, what did the actresss Sheridan Smith have to do with this book. I did have a couple of laughs too, the trip to see the Llamas was the best. Also, the storyline of Finns illness and the way it was dealt with was very good, almost had me in tears, so I will go for 3.1/2 stars for this.
February 6, 2017
Another lovely warm read from Carole Matthews. I was keen to read this as the central character Christie is a paper crafter like me. But I did think it all came over as a teeny bit dull .... There are several references to crazy crafting ladies but the book didn't quite capture that. I did identify though with the mess and supplies everywhere and always love a happy ending !
March 24, 2017
I loved this book, and I so need a summerhouse of my own !
June 2, 2018
I loved this book. It is very well written. As a fellow crafter I liked Christie from the start. The characters are very real and likeable. So glad everything worked out at the end of the book.
June 20, 2019
This was one of the sweetest books I've ever read and it's my second favourite by Carole Matthews (Wrapped Up In You is still my #1).
I fell in love with crafting when I was little. It was all I did apart from reading but clearly the crafting described here is a whole new level. Perhaps I was just decorating. Should I be embarrassed I had to look up what's a die cut machine? In the past, I would usually buy store-bought materials and didn't make my own paper hearts.
I love, love, love the story so much. When I learned what happened to one of the characters, my heart turned into ice. To think that the author had based this story on someone real who had been through this experience. It touched my heart to see how good old Mum and Dad chipped in to help and support. Is this kind of family real? It's all a bit fairytale for me. I usually don't fancy this kind of too good to be true stories but this one felt special to me. Perhaps because Finn was a darling. Perhaps because I am now intrigued by crafting and wish I can be in a summerhouse making greeting cards. <3
I fell in love with crafting when I was little. It was all I did apart from reading but clearly the crafting described here is a whole new level. Perhaps I was just decorating. Should I be embarrassed I had to look up what's a die cut machine? In the past, I would usually buy store-bought materials and didn't make my own paper hearts.
I love, love, love the story so much. When I learned what happened to one of the characters, my heart turned into ice. To think that the author had based this story on someone real who had been through this experience. It touched my heart to see how good old Mum and Dad chipped in to help and support. Is this kind of family real? It's all a bit fairytale for me. I usually don't fancy this kind of too good to be true stories but this one felt special to me. Perhaps because Finn was a darling. Perhaps because I am now intrigued by crafting and wish I can be in a summerhouse making greeting cards. <3
September 21, 2020
3.2/5
Cute, chirpy, attractive one
Not your everyday tale
Chrstie Chapman is happy and a single mother divorced on her own will.
She loves her son Finn
And is in alcove of her parents
She loves watching telly with her teenage son and engaging into crafting and paper cutting while they watch.
She loves how Finn is a responsible young Lad .
But to fulfil her responsibilities
She has to work,
She is exhausted with the commute everyday when she goes to work but it is paying her bills so she has to do whatever she can,
her favourite pastime is crafting
Or rather Collecting bits of bobs and glittery paper which makes her be the next Contemporary Craft company designer as she is passionate about that but the hurdles have their own way
Willl Christie overcome all this and be the next Singelton
Everything's tooo positive than it is acceptable
Its just doesn't digest
With the supportive people around her until some people deploy her
Because the plot was tremendously long
It is my view
Cute, chirpy, attractive one
Not your everyday tale
Chrstie Chapman is happy and a single mother divorced on her own will.
She loves her son Finn
And is in alcove of her parents
She loves watching telly with her teenage son and engaging into crafting and paper cutting while they watch.
She loves how Finn is a responsible young Lad .
But to fulfil her responsibilities
She has to work,
She is exhausted with the commute everyday when she goes to work but it is paying her bills so she has to do whatever she can,
her favourite pastime is crafting
Or rather Collecting bits of bobs and glittery paper which makes her be the next Contemporary Craft company designer as she is passionate about that but the hurdles have their own way
Willl Christie overcome all this and be the next Singelton
Everything's tooo positive than it is acceptable
Its just doesn't digest
With the supportive people around her until some people deploy her
Because the plot was tremendously long
It is my view
Displaying 1 - 30 of 291 reviews