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The New Beginnings Coffee Club
Everyone deserves a second chance…don’t they?
Jenny Masters finds herself living the modern dream. Wife to a millionaire, living in a mansion and mother to Kardashian-obsessed ten-year-old April, there isn’t anything missing. Until, her whole world comes crashing down, forcing Jenny and April to leave behind their glittering life and start over with nothing.
With village gossip following her wherever she goes, she finds refuge and a job in the new coffee shop in town. As the days pass Jenny fears she doesn’t have what it takes to pick herself back up and give April the life she always wanted to. But with the help of enigmatic new boss Noah, and housemate Elle, Jenny realises it’s never too late to become the woman life really intended you to be!
Jenny Masters finds herself living the modern dream. Wife to a millionaire, living in a mansion and mother to Kardashian-obsessed ten-year-old April, there isn’t anything missing. Until, her whole world comes crashing down, forcing Jenny and April to leave behind their glittering life and start over with nothing.
With village gossip following her wherever she goes, she finds refuge and a job in the new coffee shop in town. As the days pass Jenny fears she doesn’t have what it takes to pick herself back up and give April the life she always wanted to. But with the help of enigmatic new boss Noah, and housemate Elle, Jenny realises it’s never too late to become the woman life really intended you to be!
352 pages, ebook
Published May 5, 2017
107 people are currently reading
812 people want to read
About the author
Samantha Tonge
33 books336 followersSamantha Tonge lives in Manchester UK with her husband and children. She studied German and French at university and has worked abroad, including a stint at Disneyland Paris. She has travelled widely.
When not writing she passes her days cycling, baking and drinking coffee. Samantha has sold many dozens of short stories to women’s magazines.
She is represented by the Darley Anderson literary agency. In 2013, she landed a publishing deal for romantic comedy fiction with HQDigital at HarperCollins. In 2015 her summer novel, Game of Scones, hit #5 in the UK Kindle chart and won the Love Stories Awards Best Romantic Ebook category. In 2018 Forgive Me Not, heralded a new direction into darker women's fiction with publisher Canelo and in 2020 her novel Knowing You won the RNA's Jackie Collins Romantic Thriller Award.
http://samanthatonge.co.uk/
When not writing she passes her days cycling, baking and drinking coffee. Samantha has sold many dozens of short stories to women’s magazines.
She is represented by the Darley Anderson literary agency. In 2013, she landed a publishing deal for romantic comedy fiction with HQDigital at HarperCollins. In 2015 her summer novel, Game of Scones, hit #5 in the UK Kindle chart and won the Love Stories Awards Best Romantic Ebook category. In 2018 Forgive Me Not, heralded a new direction into darker women's fiction with publisher Canelo and in 2020 her novel Knowing You won the RNA's Jackie Collins Romantic Thriller Award.
http://samanthatonge.co.uk/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
September 21, 2017
5☆ Fabulous Read, Heart warming, captures true essence of Friendship
The new beginnings Coffee shop, is exactly that. It's a charming story of friendship, love and new beginnings.
There is so much I want to say about this book. One being..... How much I LOVED it!
So I urge you all to read, to discover the beautiful story within!
Samantha has written a beautiful piece of writing.
I fell in love with Noah and Elle in particular and really warmed to their friendly, endearing, at times mysterious, welcoming, kind nature. I felt like I had become one of their friends. That's how well there characters were thought out and developed.
Jenny was one of the main characters. When her husband Zak dropped a bombshell on her she knew her life was about to change possibly forever!
For me I didn't like Jenny to begin with, I found her attitude to life very spoilt.
However come the middle of the book my opinion of her completely changed.
I warmed to her strength and determination, the need to make her daughter April's life as pain free and easy as possible.
The touching moments between Jenny and April melted my heart.
The biggest change was April. From her lavish lifestyle she adapted.
Proving how resilient she was to change. Her zest for the outdoors and life was so refreshing.
She had the biggest heart. I just wanted to give her a big hug! She was far more grown up then her parents believed.
I also loved her beautiful friendship with Tom!
April was one if my favourite characters.
For me I disliked Zak the whole way through. He is arrogant. Does he redeem himself, that is something you will have to discover!
There was some great unexpected twists which were written with grace and compassion. I loved the chemistry between the characters and the need to support each other was touching!
Overall a beautiful and at times emotional journey.
Samantha captured the true essence of friendship and kindness.
I felt like I was a part of the Coffee Club and I didn't want it to end.
I was enthralled and blown away.
I urge everyone to read this gem of a book.
It truly is a beautiful piece of writing.
I received this book from the Publisher in exchange for a honest and fair review via Netgalley.
My Review is also on my blog website:
http://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2017/09...
The new beginnings Coffee shop, is exactly that. It's a charming story of friendship, love and new beginnings.
There is so much I want to say about this book. One being..... How much I LOVED it!
So I urge you all to read, to discover the beautiful story within!
Samantha has written a beautiful piece of writing.
I fell in love with Noah and Elle in particular and really warmed to their friendly, endearing, at times mysterious, welcoming, kind nature. I felt like I had become one of their friends. That's how well there characters were thought out and developed.
Jenny was one of the main characters. When her husband Zak dropped a bombshell on her she knew her life was about to change possibly forever!
For me I didn't like Jenny to begin with, I found her attitude to life very spoilt.
However come the middle of the book my opinion of her completely changed.
I warmed to her strength and determination, the need to make her daughter April's life as pain free and easy as possible.
The touching moments between Jenny and April melted my heart.
The biggest change was April. From her lavish lifestyle she adapted.
Proving how resilient she was to change. Her zest for the outdoors and life was so refreshing.
She had the biggest heart. I just wanted to give her a big hug! She was far more grown up then her parents believed.
I also loved her beautiful friendship with Tom!
April was one if my favourite characters.
For me I disliked Zak the whole way through. He is arrogant. Does he redeem himself, that is something you will have to discover!
There was some great unexpected twists which were written with grace and compassion. I loved the chemistry between the characters and the need to support each other was touching!
Overall a beautiful and at times emotional journey.
Samantha captured the true essence of friendship and kindness.
I felt like I was a part of the Coffee Club and I didn't want it to end.
I was enthralled and blown away.
I urge everyone to read this gem of a book.
It truly is a beautiful piece of writing.
I received this book from the Publisher in exchange for a honest and fair review via Netgalley.
My Review is also on my blog website:
http://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2017/09...
April 19, 2017
This is a wonderfully happy book. I loved every minute of it. Wonderful characters who you will cry laugh and go on a journey of discovery with. Simply marvellous
April 10, 2017
Pick up a latte and relax into this cosy read that’s chock-full of surprises! It's a touching read of second chances and starting over. Recommended.
April 15, 2017
This is definitely the book that has taken Samantha Tonge's writing to a new level. I've always enjoyed the books she has written, but there are subjects discussed in this story that make me feel as though she has moved up a gear, providing some fascinating storylines.
Its a story of self discovery, or at least rediscovering who you truly are. Jenny great up in a regular family, and then while very young married Zachary who is a millionaire. She embraced the wealthy lifestyle to the fullest, along with her their daughter April who is 10.
When Zachary blows their marriage apart and reveals his web of lies, Jenny suddenly has to rethink all of her priorities in life, and even manages in her early thirties to get her first job, in a coffee shop. She and April also move into the accommodation above the shop, and are now living with Noah and Elle, who work there too.
Noah and Elle both have secrets, one of them I guessed reasonably early on, and the other triggers my favourite storyline in the book, which tackles an issue that very relevant in today's society and that I haven't really seen in books before.
What I also loved was seeing April, turn from a Kardashian loving, fashionista sort of a pre-teen into into a far more regular 10 year old child. She never ceased to amaze me, and I loved the creative ways that Jenny came up with dealing with what a cynic could say was April's bribe list for being happier at the new school!
If you are a fan of coffee then you will love Noah's love of the drink, he is very into all of his coffee varieties and as a non drinker, I couldn't help but be surprised at just how much flavour variation there really is in coffee beans from various parts of the world.
The Coffee Shop of New Beginnings is clearly a well researched book, that I didn't put down and just thoroughly enjoyed reading. I loved the various characters, apart from Jenny's soon to be very ex husband, while also enjoying the village they live in and the various customers in the shop. I can't help but wonder if there could be more books set in the village, as I would love to know more about various of the secondary characters.
Thank you so much to Netgalley and HQ Digital for this copy of the book which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
Its a story of self discovery, or at least rediscovering who you truly are. Jenny great up in a regular family, and then while very young married Zachary who is a millionaire. She embraced the wealthy lifestyle to the fullest, along with her their daughter April who is 10.
When Zachary blows their marriage apart and reveals his web of lies, Jenny suddenly has to rethink all of her priorities in life, and even manages in her early thirties to get her first job, in a coffee shop. She and April also move into the accommodation above the shop, and are now living with Noah and Elle, who work there too.
Noah and Elle both have secrets, one of them I guessed reasonably early on, and the other triggers my favourite storyline in the book, which tackles an issue that very relevant in today's society and that I haven't really seen in books before.
What I also loved was seeing April, turn from a Kardashian loving, fashionista sort of a pre-teen into into a far more regular 10 year old child. She never ceased to amaze me, and I loved the creative ways that Jenny came up with dealing with what a cynic could say was April's bribe list for being happier at the new school!
If you are a fan of coffee then you will love Noah's love of the drink, he is very into all of his coffee varieties and as a non drinker, I couldn't help but be surprised at just how much flavour variation there really is in coffee beans from various parts of the world.
The Coffee Shop of New Beginnings is clearly a well researched book, that I didn't put down and just thoroughly enjoyed reading. I loved the various characters, apart from Jenny's soon to be very ex husband, while also enjoying the village they live in and the various customers in the shop. I can't help but wonder if there could be more books set in the village, as I would love to know more about various of the secondary characters.
Thank you so much to Netgalley and HQ Digital for this copy of the book which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
April 6, 2017
I absolutely loved this book! It is so heart warming and really enjoyable.
The characters in the book go through so much. They have some really dark hard times but the characters come together to support each other.
The thing I thought was really great about the book was that there was loads of unexpected parts which added elements of suprise to me as a reader. So I didnt know how the book was going to end and when you get a book like that it makes it so much better to read.
The characters in the book go through so much. They have some really dark hard times but the characters come together to support each other.
The thing I thought was really great about the book was that there was loads of unexpected parts which added elements of suprise to me as a reader. So I didnt know how the book was going to end and when you get a book like that it makes it so much better to read.
August 18, 2018
Jenny has been living a wonderful life, but when it comes crashing down one day, she has to create a new life for herself and her daughter. It’s difficult and different at first, especially for her daughter April, but in time everything settles into place. Can Jenny and April find happiness after such a big life change?
It’s a great book, way more thought-provoking and deeper than I’d expected from the colorful cover. I loved how strong and determined Jenny was and how she made everything work despite the fact how her husband treated her. It had a great combination of serious topics and light hearted moments. A great read!
It’s a great book, way more thought-provoking and deeper than I’d expected from the colorful cover. I loved how strong and determined Jenny was and how she made everything work despite the fact how her husband treated her. It had a great combination of serious topics and light hearted moments. A great read!
August 22, 2017
This review is based on the ARC provided by the publishers.
I liked this book a lot. On a personal level it spoke to me and I could associate with Jenny, the main character. The writing was good.
All in all, I liked the friendships, the small town community and how they stuck together to help each other.
Thank you, Samantha Tonge, for writing about strong women, great friendships and how it is important to take your life into your own hands.
I liked this book a lot. On a personal level it spoke to me and I could associate with Jenny, the main character. The writing was good.
All in all, I liked the friendships, the small town community and how they stuck together to help each other.
Thank you, Samantha Tonge, for writing about strong women, great friendships and how it is important to take your life into your own hands.
May 6, 2017
Jenny thinks she's lucky. She's still in love with her husband Zak, they live in a mansion, she can be there for their daughter April fulltime, they have plenty of help so she doesn't have to do much, and she doesn't have to worry about money. Unfortunately Zak isn't as enthusiastic as he used to be earlier in their relationship and this makes Jenny feel uneasy. He's been keeping secrets from her and when he finally tells Jenny about his plans for the future she's deeply shocked. Jenny is about to lose everything she loves and there's no way she can stop it.
Together with April Jenny has to start rebuilding her life. Fortunately Noah, the owner of a cozy and successful coffee shop, offers her a job and a place to stay. She will share a house with both Noah and his colleague and housemate Elle. Celebrity fan April isn't happy to lose all the luxuries she's used to, but Jenny is determined to convince her daughter that life without unlimited amounts of spending money is just as good, or maybe even better. Will she succeed and will Jenny and April find happiness again after everything they've been through?
The New Beginnings Coffee Club is a heartwarming story about a woman who loses the life she loved so much and needs to start over. Jenny is stronger than she thinks. When Zak gives her his news she's devastated, but she has April to take care of. I loved Jenny's self respect and restraint, she always manages to control herself because she loves her daughter more than anything else in the world. That makes her a real sweetheart and a great example for April. Jenny even manages to find the silver lining in this difficult time and teaches April that she can also have fun without spending plenty of money. Jenny is trying to discover who she really is inside and encourages April to do the same. I loved the connection between mother and daughter, which for me was one of the best things about the book.
Samantha Tonge has a lovely writing style that flows easily. She writes about a broad range of topics in an empathic way and her main characters are realistic. They all have their struggles, but by being there for each other they make life a lot more bearable. I really liked that message. Jenny's new life is wonderful and more fun than the old one and it was fabulous to see her grow. I absolutely loved The New Beginnings Coffee Club, it's a fantastic story about second chances, friendship and love. Samantha Tonge shows her readers what really matters in life and that's something I enjoyed very much. She combines this thought-provoking subject with delicious descriptions of cake, hot chocolate and coffee, which makes the story warm and welcoming. I highly recommend The New Beginnings Coffee Club, it's a fantastic charming story.
Together with April Jenny has to start rebuilding her life. Fortunately Noah, the owner of a cozy and successful coffee shop, offers her a job and a place to stay. She will share a house with both Noah and his colleague and housemate Elle. Celebrity fan April isn't happy to lose all the luxuries she's used to, but Jenny is determined to convince her daughter that life without unlimited amounts of spending money is just as good, or maybe even better. Will she succeed and will Jenny and April find happiness again after everything they've been through?
The New Beginnings Coffee Club is a heartwarming story about a woman who loses the life she loved so much and needs to start over. Jenny is stronger than she thinks. When Zak gives her his news she's devastated, but she has April to take care of. I loved Jenny's self respect and restraint, she always manages to control herself because she loves her daughter more than anything else in the world. That makes her a real sweetheart and a great example for April. Jenny even manages to find the silver lining in this difficult time and teaches April that she can also have fun without spending plenty of money. Jenny is trying to discover who she really is inside and encourages April to do the same. I loved the connection between mother and daughter, which for me was one of the best things about the book.
Samantha Tonge has a lovely writing style that flows easily. She writes about a broad range of topics in an empathic way and her main characters are realistic. They all have their struggles, but by being there for each other they make life a lot more bearable. I really liked that message. Jenny's new life is wonderful and more fun than the old one and it was fabulous to see her grow. I absolutely loved The New Beginnings Coffee Club, it's a fantastic story about second chances, friendship and love. Samantha Tonge shows her readers what really matters in life and that's something I enjoyed very much. She combines this thought-provoking subject with delicious descriptions of cake, hot chocolate and coffee, which makes the story warm and welcoming. I highly recommend The New Beginnings Coffee Club, it's a fantastic charming story.
May 21, 2017
A variety of stories combine to create new beginnings for several people at the enticing coffee club...
Another warm and engaging story from Samantha Tonge
Another warm and engaging story from Samantha Tonge
October 8, 2017
Yet another winner from this tala ted author, I have read a few of her books and as always could not put it down, cannot wait for next book. Keep them coming.
May 14, 2017
Before I began reading this new book from Samantha Tonge I had seen someone mention how with this story the author's writing had really been upped a level and everything was going in a more serious direction. I was intrigued to see would I agree with this statement as having read several of her books I know what to usually expect - light, fun, easy reads with some humour and romance thrown in. Now having finished reading The New Beginnings Coffee Club (don't worry this is not another one of those club/shop/group books) I completely agree that Samantha's writing has certainly shifted to a new level and the overall storyline was really relevant to our times today. I liked the serious undertones coming through with good, strong messages for the reader to take from the story. Yes it is a departure for the author but in a really good way. Don't get me wrong I enjoyed her earlier stories and not to detract from them in any way but sometimes you need that change of direction to keep the writing fresh and the readers wanting to come back to your books time and time again. With this story Samantha will earn lots of new readers and pleasantly surprise those who have followed her work since her début Doubting Abbey was published in 2013.
The New Beginnings Coffee Club is a story of a journey, a transformation, of battling through the rough and unexpected times and with the help, support and care of others our main character may begin to see the light at the end of the tunnel. I really enjoyed accompanying our main character Jenny Jarvis as she embarks upon a new start in life. Although she may have thought her warm, cushy world was forever it's when we least expect things to change that they do through unfortunate, unforgiving circumstances and perhaps at the time the most soul destroying of ways.
We meet Jenny in a brief prologue as she reminisces about her childhood. She thought back then if she ever has a child she wants to be a mum just like her own mother - baking, crafting and creating wonderful memories for her child to savour. Fast forward many years later and Jenny is 32 and happily married to a handsome high flyer Zachary Masters. The couple have a daughter April aged ten who is on the cusp of that tween phase where celebrity and peer pressure play such an influential role on their later teenage years. The references throughout the story to the Kardashians and celeb culture were spot on. I loved how the author had a point to put across as to how celebrity is becoming like a modern religion and not in a good way so much so that the influence and remarks of April's friends play a huge part in the way she is feeling and the persona she puts across. Food, calories, makeup and hair trends seemed to be such an obsession for the young girls. This issue wasn't too in your face but well meshed with the overall storyline amongst all the other little plot lines. If it had been a very dominant theme I think it would have strayed too far with what we have known Samantha to write before. Yes the book ventured down new writing avenues for the author but not too much too soon.
Jenny enjoys a very nice life with Zach - his business Elite Eleganz has afforded the family a life of privilege and luxury. April attends a fee paying school where competition to be the best is rife amongst the girls. Jenny can buy anything she wants and thinks she is in the 'in club ' with fellow mum Chanelle who owns a nail salon. Things really couldn't be better for Jenny. The author did a brilliant job of painting such a picture of a wonderful life for a loving and happy family that when it all comes crashing down your heart instantly goes out to Jenny. Even in the beginning I never felt Jenny herself had come across as truly spoilt but I could see when everything disappears she has a battle on her hands to re- accustom herself to a 'normal life'. Jenny thinks a lovely romantic meal is in store for her when she goes out with Zach but he turns up late, a fight ensues and the truth finally emerges and it's not what Jenny ever thought she would hear. This was such a brutal uncessary putdown from Zach.'Oh Jenny .... you're just a housewife. And it's not enough anymore'. My picture of Zach as this hunk who works hard and earns plenty of money disappeared and for the rest of the book I disliked him intensely. All Jenny's safe, secure world comes crashing down and she is out on her ear and someone she thought quite close to her is in her place.
Lack of money becomes a huge issue but maybe really this is the wake up call Jenny needed to create a better life for herself and April. The only trouble is having had so much how can she cope with so little? 'Bit by bit my perfect life was crumbling - jagged chunks of it smashing through my ignorance'. Jenny now can't fall apart as April really needs her. I could sense that's what she wanted to do but she desperately needed to find some inner strength to keep moving forward and put the past behind her and forge a new and happy future. Although I did think she was quite down on herself believing she had always been handed everything and now wasn't capable of achieving anything on her own.
Before starting the book I did think it could be about a group of women forming a coffee club where all their woes and ups and downs were discussed. Thankfully this couldn't have been further from the truth. The coffee club in question is a café run by Noah with the help of Elle. It's unique and special as Noah puts so much time and effort into sourcing so many various flavours of coffee beans in a bid to attract as many customers as possible into such a warm and inviting place. Noah was an instantly likeable character, I think he felt a certain affinity with Jenny and wanted to reach out and help her. His advice was so sound and useful. I did think though offering her a job and a place to stay with April was quite rushed but it could just be do with his kind nature. I sensed Noah had been through a lot and having been so wanted to help others in need. These simple brilliant words are just what Jenny needed to hear 'Just be true to yourself. Listen to your heart. The rest will follow. Everyone has problems. You aren't alone'. As Jenny battles to adjust to a whole new way of life she also has to contend with Zach still in her life after all he is Jenny's father but also April has her own little issues. April was such a sweet character and brought plenty of humour to the story but also spoke a lot of sense for someone so young. The wishes she requested were magical and such a nice touch to the story.
The story moved along at a nice pace once Jenny gets the job and we get to know Elle and Noah that little bit better too. I enjoyed seeing how Jenny slowly became more confident as she found her feet and became more independent. Yet it wasn't all plain sailing and therefore very much reflective of life especially after a break up. There were a few twists and turns throw in towards the end of the book and a few dramatic scenes. A surprising revelation I would never have seen coming in a million years but bravo Samantha Tonge for including this subject and handling it with such sensitivity.
The New Beginnings Coffee Club is well worth a read. I flew through it in two sittings and I found both its themes and characters really resonated with me. This is a warm, inviting book with characters you won't want to leave behind. I so thoroughly enjoyed Jenny's path to finding her inner voice and searching for a positive, hopeful future. Does Jenny get a happy ending or will there be a few spanners thrown in the works? Pick up this delightful book to discover the answers for yourself.
The New Beginnings Coffee Club is a story of a journey, a transformation, of battling through the rough and unexpected times and with the help, support and care of others our main character may begin to see the light at the end of the tunnel. I really enjoyed accompanying our main character Jenny Jarvis as she embarks upon a new start in life. Although she may have thought her warm, cushy world was forever it's when we least expect things to change that they do through unfortunate, unforgiving circumstances and perhaps at the time the most soul destroying of ways.
We meet Jenny in a brief prologue as she reminisces about her childhood. She thought back then if she ever has a child she wants to be a mum just like her own mother - baking, crafting and creating wonderful memories for her child to savour. Fast forward many years later and Jenny is 32 and happily married to a handsome high flyer Zachary Masters. The couple have a daughter April aged ten who is on the cusp of that tween phase where celebrity and peer pressure play such an influential role on their later teenage years. The references throughout the story to the Kardashians and celeb culture were spot on. I loved how the author had a point to put across as to how celebrity is becoming like a modern religion and not in a good way so much so that the influence and remarks of April's friends play a huge part in the way she is feeling and the persona she puts across. Food, calories, makeup and hair trends seemed to be such an obsession for the young girls. This issue wasn't too in your face but well meshed with the overall storyline amongst all the other little plot lines. If it had been a very dominant theme I think it would have strayed too far with what we have known Samantha to write before. Yes the book ventured down new writing avenues for the author but not too much too soon.
Jenny enjoys a very nice life with Zach - his business Elite Eleganz has afforded the family a life of privilege and luxury. April attends a fee paying school where competition to be the best is rife amongst the girls. Jenny can buy anything she wants and thinks she is in the 'in club ' with fellow mum Chanelle who owns a nail salon. Things really couldn't be better for Jenny. The author did a brilliant job of painting such a picture of a wonderful life for a loving and happy family that when it all comes crashing down your heart instantly goes out to Jenny. Even in the beginning I never felt Jenny herself had come across as truly spoilt but I could see when everything disappears she has a battle on her hands to re- accustom herself to a 'normal life'. Jenny thinks a lovely romantic meal is in store for her when she goes out with Zach but he turns up late, a fight ensues and the truth finally emerges and it's not what Jenny ever thought she would hear. This was such a brutal uncessary putdown from Zach.'Oh Jenny .... you're just a housewife. And it's not enough anymore'. My picture of Zach as this hunk who works hard and earns plenty of money disappeared and for the rest of the book I disliked him intensely. All Jenny's safe, secure world comes crashing down and she is out on her ear and someone she thought quite close to her is in her place.
Lack of money becomes a huge issue but maybe really this is the wake up call Jenny needed to create a better life for herself and April. The only trouble is having had so much how can she cope with so little? 'Bit by bit my perfect life was crumbling - jagged chunks of it smashing through my ignorance'. Jenny now can't fall apart as April really needs her. I could sense that's what she wanted to do but she desperately needed to find some inner strength to keep moving forward and put the past behind her and forge a new and happy future. Although I did think she was quite down on herself believing she had always been handed everything and now wasn't capable of achieving anything on her own.
Before starting the book I did think it could be about a group of women forming a coffee club where all their woes and ups and downs were discussed. Thankfully this couldn't have been further from the truth. The coffee club in question is a café run by Noah with the help of Elle. It's unique and special as Noah puts so much time and effort into sourcing so many various flavours of coffee beans in a bid to attract as many customers as possible into such a warm and inviting place. Noah was an instantly likeable character, I think he felt a certain affinity with Jenny and wanted to reach out and help her. His advice was so sound and useful. I did think though offering her a job and a place to stay with April was quite rushed but it could just be do with his kind nature. I sensed Noah had been through a lot and having been so wanted to help others in need. These simple brilliant words are just what Jenny needed to hear 'Just be true to yourself. Listen to your heart. The rest will follow. Everyone has problems. You aren't alone'. As Jenny battles to adjust to a whole new way of life she also has to contend with Zach still in her life after all he is Jenny's father but also April has her own little issues. April was such a sweet character and brought plenty of humour to the story but also spoke a lot of sense for someone so young. The wishes she requested were magical and such a nice touch to the story.
The story moved along at a nice pace once Jenny gets the job and we get to know Elle and Noah that little bit better too. I enjoyed seeing how Jenny slowly became more confident as she found her feet and became more independent. Yet it wasn't all plain sailing and therefore very much reflective of life especially after a break up. There were a few twists and turns throw in towards the end of the book and a few dramatic scenes. A surprising revelation I would never have seen coming in a million years but bravo Samantha Tonge for including this subject and handling it with such sensitivity.
The New Beginnings Coffee Club is well worth a read. I flew through it in two sittings and I found both its themes and characters really resonated with me. This is a warm, inviting book with characters you won't want to leave behind. I so thoroughly enjoyed Jenny's path to finding her inner voice and searching for a positive, hopeful future. Does Jenny get a happy ending or will there be a few spanners thrown in the works? Pick up this delightful book to discover the answers for yourself.
April 20, 2017
The New Beginnings Coffee Club reminds me of a quote that I saw flying around on social media once and it said: Humble yourself or life will do it for you. In a nutshell this is what’s happened to poor Jenny Masters.
Jenny Masters has all the ingredients of a character that makes you want to root for her and toot a horn. She has this wonderful life, millionaire husband, lovely daughter and the perfect house. Jenny knows she’s lucky to have all that and somehow along the way took it all for granted. You can’t blame her really, her life seemed pretty safe. Until one day it all goes wrong.
Jenny then begins to wonder if she has what it takes by constantly second-guessing, reminiscing about her old life, worrying about the inevitable shame that will follow her when word gets round about the wife of a millionare working in a coffee shop, and more importantly, April’s school, she’ll miss her friends, how will she cope?
Jenny understands that she has no choice but to carry on and that’s when she meets Noah who owns a coffee shop in town that he runs with Elle. The supporting characters in the café are lovely. Noah and Elle brought life to the café and comfort to Jenny despite the change in environment that April did not take well too.
What’s comforting about this story is the level of support Jenny has. Yes, she lost a few things along the way but all that was replaced with love, realness and independence, and with time, Jenny too began to look for the positives in her life instead of the things she could not do or do without. By surrounding herself with the right people brought out the best in her and they too saw the best in her. Isn’t this true of life though? Pro this, she was happy to take the back seat.
To be given an advanced copy of one of Samantha Tonge’s books is like diving into a huge box of treats. Again her story telling continues to impress me and instantly, I could feel the theme and the moral of this story coming through so strongly. With each chapter the story just got better and better.
Jenny is a smart, strong woman who I loved even more as the story progressed and chose to let life teach a valuable lesson on how to stand up and move on.
Thank you Samantha for this advance copy.
Jenny Masters has all the ingredients of a character that makes you want to root for her and toot a horn. She has this wonderful life, millionaire husband, lovely daughter and the perfect house. Jenny knows she’s lucky to have all that and somehow along the way took it all for granted. You can’t blame her really, her life seemed pretty safe. Until one day it all goes wrong.
Jenny then begins to wonder if she has what it takes by constantly second-guessing, reminiscing about her old life, worrying about the inevitable shame that will follow her when word gets round about the wife of a millionare working in a coffee shop, and more importantly, April’s school, she’ll miss her friends, how will she cope?
Jenny understands that she has no choice but to carry on and that’s when she meets Noah who owns a coffee shop in town that he runs with Elle. The supporting characters in the café are lovely. Noah and Elle brought life to the café and comfort to Jenny despite the change in environment that April did not take well too.
What’s comforting about this story is the level of support Jenny has. Yes, she lost a few things along the way but all that was replaced with love, realness and independence, and with time, Jenny too began to look for the positives in her life instead of the things she could not do or do without. By surrounding herself with the right people brought out the best in her and they too saw the best in her. Isn’t this true of life though? Pro this, she was happy to take the back seat.
To be given an advanced copy of one of Samantha Tonge’s books is like diving into a huge box of treats. Again her story telling continues to impress me and instantly, I could feel the theme and the moral of this story coming through so strongly. With each chapter the story just got better and better.
Jenny is a smart, strong woman who I loved even more as the story progressed and chose to let life teach a valuable lesson on how to stand up and move on.
Thank you Samantha for this advance copy.
May 6, 2017
The New Beginnings Coffee Club is a delightful read that envelops you in a warm hug. This was just the book I was looking for after reading some very dark and disturbing stories. This novel is all about hope, and the fact that anyone can make a new start in life, no matter what the circumstances.
So, the book rotated around Jenny, the protagonist, mother to April, who suddenly loses it all. Her whirlwind life, married to hunky millionaire Zach, isn't quite what it is cracked up to be and she soon finds herself forging a new life foe herself and her young daughter with the help of Noah and Elle. On paper, this would seem to be a superficial and lighthearted read, but there is much more to this book. This book is all about finding your identity, believing in yourself and knowing that life just finds a way... in the end.
I liked Jenny the instant I met her. The young Jenny, making cakes with her mother was delightful, and I soon realised that this essence of who she really is, had been obliterated by marrying Zach and his expensive and luxurious lifestyle. Throughout the book we see a gradual change come over her, as she begins to truly believe in herself. The same is also true for April. My heart broke when I read that this little girl was more interested in her makeup and designer clothes than playing and just being a 'little girl'. It was therefore delightful to see her 'be' a little girl once more.
My heart though truly belonged to Noah. How could I not fall in love with this man? He is kind, gorgeous and is a generally nice guy. Plus, he owns a coffee shop and knows everything that there is to know about this addictive bean. I love coffee, in fact it is probably safest to say that I am slightly addicted to it, so I really enjoyed the many coffee references that were dotted about this book. What I also found refreshing, was that Noah also had depth. He wasn't just the run of the mill 'hero'. He too had his own secrets and demons to face and completely surprised me with his back story.
The New Beginnings Coffee Club is a gorgeous treat of read and perfect for those long summer days. This book made me appreciate all the simple things in life, those things that I just take for granted. It also made me drink a lot of coffee while reading it... so win win! A thoroughly enjoyable read!
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an Advanced Reader Copy.
So, the book rotated around Jenny, the protagonist, mother to April, who suddenly loses it all. Her whirlwind life, married to hunky millionaire Zach, isn't quite what it is cracked up to be and she soon finds herself forging a new life foe herself and her young daughter with the help of Noah and Elle. On paper, this would seem to be a superficial and lighthearted read, but there is much more to this book. This book is all about finding your identity, believing in yourself and knowing that life just finds a way... in the end.
I liked Jenny the instant I met her. The young Jenny, making cakes with her mother was delightful, and I soon realised that this essence of who she really is, had been obliterated by marrying Zach and his expensive and luxurious lifestyle. Throughout the book we see a gradual change come over her, as she begins to truly believe in herself. The same is also true for April. My heart broke when I read that this little girl was more interested in her makeup and designer clothes than playing and just being a 'little girl'. It was therefore delightful to see her 'be' a little girl once more.
My heart though truly belonged to Noah. How could I not fall in love with this man? He is kind, gorgeous and is a generally nice guy. Plus, he owns a coffee shop and knows everything that there is to know about this addictive bean. I love coffee, in fact it is probably safest to say that I am slightly addicted to it, so I really enjoyed the many coffee references that were dotted about this book. What I also found refreshing, was that Noah also had depth. He wasn't just the run of the mill 'hero'. He too had his own secrets and demons to face and completely surprised me with his back story.
The New Beginnings Coffee Club is a gorgeous treat of read and perfect for those long summer days. This book made me appreciate all the simple things in life, those things that I just take for granted. It also made me drink a lot of coffee while reading it... so win win! A thoroughly enjoyable read!
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an Advanced Reader Copy.
May 21, 2017
I loved this book so much I read it twice! The premise is one which has been used a lot, and I was worried that this would mean the story wouldn't stand out. I couldn't have been more wrong. The way the author tells the story it most definitely stands out.
The storyline isn't as simple as you would first assume as the author takes all of the characters on their own journeys, each of which is extremely relevant to the overall storyline. Some of the back stories shocked me, but not in a bad way. I was more surprised because I honestly didn't see some of the twists coming. Those surprises throughout made this book an amazing read rather than simply a good read.
The characters are all written extremely well, the story is told in such a way that I was gripped throughout. The author is a favourite of mine and this story goes to show she continually produces books which will keep the reader wanting more.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing a copy.
The storyline isn't as simple as you would first assume as the author takes all of the characters on their own journeys, each of which is extremely relevant to the overall storyline. Some of the back stories shocked me, but not in a bad way. I was more surprised because I honestly didn't see some of the twists coming. Those surprises throughout made this book an amazing read rather than simply a good read.
The characters are all written extremely well, the story is told in such a way that I was gripped throughout. The author is a favourite of mine and this story goes to show she continually produces books which will keep the reader wanting more.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing a copy.
April 14, 2017
I was lucky enough to be able to read an advance copy of this great book. When Jenny's life of luxury falls away with the end of her marriage. she has no choice but to try to build a new life for herself and her daughter. Having to work, share a small room, and live on little money are not what she is used to, and little April has to move to a village school and give up the privileged life she has always enjoyed. But the coffee shop and its staff offer a safe haven, new friendships and the chance to not only start again, but to do things differently and better. A nice heartwarming story with a few secrets and surprises along the way. I really enjoyed it.
May 5, 2017
I found ‘The New Beginnings Coffee Club’ to be an enjoyable read both light and with depth if that makes sense. It starts with the seemingly perfect marriage of Jenny and Zachary who have everything in the conventional sense but it all falls apart when he reveals a secret she couldn’t have imagined in her worst nightmares. Jenny is left having to put her life back together with her daughter April and it’s not easy. Noah and Elle offer her a job in the village coffee shop and it’s the beginning of a rocky road to a new version of happy. Noah and Elle both have their own problems, one I guessed from the beginning but the other not so. The author takes deep, modern issues and tackles them admirably without becoming in any way preachy. Definitely worth reading.
Thanks to Net Galley and HQ Digital for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
Thanks to Net Galley and HQ Digital for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
May 26, 2017
The New Beginnings Coffee Club sounded like the perfect summer read, just the thing to kick off the weeks of sunshine and cool drinks (frappuccinos, anyone?) ahead.
Sadly, once I started reading the book, I found that it lacked the spark I thought it might have after sampling the summary. It relies quite heavily on cliches of the genre: a wife, whose entire identity has become wrapped up in her husband and child, finds out her husband is cheating on her (with her "best friend" no less) and she must find the strength to create a new life for herself and her daughter.
Jenny, the protagonist and wife in question, was perplexing. She didn't come from money and while she's gotten used to certain comforts being married to a millionaire, her utter lack of sense regarding the real world astounded me. Surely she couldn't have forgotten everything in only ten years? What it's like to not pay hundreds or even thousands for silly little things? It was odd when compared to the fact that she was the only one between her and her husband that could see selling their mansion was the only way to make some dent in their near bankrupt state. She got slightly better over time, getting back to the fashion ideas she had as a college student, so that is something in the way of her development.
What I didn't like about her, even as we got toward the end of the book, was that she kept making excuses for Zak's behavior regarding her friend/housemate, Elle, and their own relationship. He says and does things that are reprehensible and yet Jenny makes excuse after excuse. I get that he is the father of her child, but that doesn't mean letting him get away with murder like this.
Aside from the problems I had with Jenny's character, I didn't get much of a sense of familiarity with many of the people that she came into contact with in the village: Noah (the new love interest), Martini (a grandmother whose grandchild makes friends with April), etc. The person I liked the most was Elle, whose story I found much more fascinating that Jenny's, to be honest. Something I noticed was that the gossip that is alluded to in the summary actually has next to nothing to do with Jenny at all and more to do with Elle and the revelation that she's transgender. It's strange that they make Elle's story about Jenny and how it affects her. It didn't rub me wrong in the moment, but thinking back on it I get an off feeling and don't care for how Elle's unwilling outing was used as a plot device.
The writing was a letdown as well. It didn't have anything special to offer, which saddened me, because good writing can make up for an awful lot in a substandard or bare bones plot, but I didn't get any of that here. This was, regrettably, not the summer escape read I thought it would be.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Sadly, once I started reading the book, I found that it lacked the spark I thought it might have after sampling the summary. It relies quite heavily on cliches of the genre: a wife, whose entire identity has become wrapped up in her husband and child, finds out her husband is cheating on her (with her "best friend" no less) and she must find the strength to create a new life for herself and her daughter.
Jenny, the protagonist and wife in question, was perplexing. She didn't come from money and while she's gotten used to certain comforts being married to a millionaire, her utter lack of sense regarding the real world astounded me. Surely she couldn't have forgotten everything in only ten years? What it's like to not pay hundreds or even thousands for silly little things? It was odd when compared to the fact that she was the only one between her and her husband that could see selling their mansion was the only way to make some dent in their near bankrupt state. She got slightly better over time, getting back to the fashion ideas she had as a college student, so that is something in the way of her development.
What I didn't like about her, even as we got toward the end of the book, was that she kept making excuses for Zak's behavior regarding her friend/housemate, Elle, and their own relationship. He says and does things that are reprehensible and yet Jenny makes excuse after excuse. I get that he is the father of her child, but that doesn't mean letting him get away with murder like this.
Aside from the problems I had with Jenny's character, I didn't get much of a sense of familiarity with many of the people that she came into contact with in the village: Noah (the new love interest), Martini (a grandmother whose grandchild makes friends with April), etc. The person I liked the most was Elle, whose story I found much more fascinating that Jenny's, to be honest. Something I noticed was that the gossip that is alluded to in the summary actually has next to nothing to do with Jenny at all and more to do with Elle and the revelation that she's transgender. It's strange that they make Elle's story about Jenny and how it affects her. It didn't rub me wrong in the moment, but thinking back on it I get an off feeling and don't care for how Elle's unwilling outing was used as a plot device.
The writing was a letdown as well. It didn't have anything special to offer, which saddened me, because good writing can make up for an awful lot in a substandard or bare bones plot, but I didn't get any of that here. This was, regrettably, not the summer escape read I thought it would be.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 16, 2017
An ensemble story, bringing together the stories of Jenny, April, Noah, Elle and tangentially, Zak, the story starts with a bang and life-changing news for Jenny and her daughter April with her soon to be ex-husband Zak. Until the revelation that blew her life apart, Jenny thought she had no reasons to complain: she still loved her husband even though they married young, her daughter April was happy, if more than slightly mercenary and Kardashian obsessed, she had a nice house, money to do with as she pleased, and no great waves in her future. But, Zak changed all of that in an instant, and her own emotional devastation combined with her own belief that she was the subject of gossip, not to mention the need to support April AND keep her unaware of the wagging tongues is foremost in her mind. Of course, April is aware that things changed – she doesn’t have the pocket money for one, but her belief in her mother’s ability to make things right is refreshing.
Enter Noah and Elle, and their coffee shop with a job offer and a place to stay for both Jenny and April – and a softly accepting and kind manner that makes the best of a situation that isn’t ideal, and offers Jenny hope. Hope in he support and ears leant to her questions and stories, hope in the acceptance of April and her moments, and generally being kind all around……but they too, have secrets.
What a wonderful introduction to this author and her writing. The depth of emotion was palpable and each character’s personality was clearly displayed during their interactions with one another and in quieter moments. With the addition of simple quirks, likes and dislikes, each character comes alive and demands that you pay attention to them, coming to befriend them and care about their happiness and secrets. With revelation of those secrets, the story gains an unexpected depth, handing difficult moments and situations with care, providing insight into the characters’ actions, choices and just why some things took longer to reveal than others. Truly a testament to friendship and the supportive environment’s ability to offer options for growth and healing, this was a wonderful book and great introduction to the work of Samantha Tongue. For those readers who often ‘pooh-pooh’ the fluffiness of woman’s fiction, or wish for depth WITH a story that is just a bit different from the norm, this is the book for you.
I received an eArc copy of the ttle from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
Enter Noah and Elle, and their coffee shop with a job offer and a place to stay for both Jenny and April – and a softly accepting and kind manner that makes the best of a situation that isn’t ideal, and offers Jenny hope. Hope in he support and ears leant to her questions and stories, hope in the acceptance of April and her moments, and generally being kind all around……but they too, have secrets.
What a wonderful introduction to this author and her writing. The depth of emotion was palpable and each character’s personality was clearly displayed during their interactions with one another and in quieter moments. With the addition of simple quirks, likes and dislikes, each character comes alive and demands that you pay attention to them, coming to befriend them and care about their happiness and secrets. With revelation of those secrets, the story gains an unexpected depth, handing difficult moments and situations with care, providing insight into the characters’ actions, choices and just why some things took longer to reveal than others. Truly a testament to friendship and the supportive environment’s ability to offer options for growth and healing, this was a wonderful book and great introduction to the work of Samantha Tongue. For those readers who often ‘pooh-pooh’ the fluffiness of woman’s fiction, or wish for depth WITH a story that is just a bit different from the norm, this is the book for you.
I received an eArc copy of the ttle from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
May 5, 2017
Zak Masters is the head of the fashion house, Elite Eleganz. His wife, Jenny, has a good life married to a millionaire, and living in a lovely home with their precious 10-year-old daughter, April. Jenny wears beautiful clothes, jewelry, shoes, and can afford to belong to spas and such. April attends a private school with the children of some of their rich friends.
One evening, Zak tells Jenny he wants to go out for a special dinner as he wants to discuss something with her. She had been thinking of talking to him about her finishing college in fashion design. But when Zak confesses that the business is bankrupt, plus Zak and their rich friend, Chanelle, are together, she is shocked. He tells her that their lovely home will have to be sold too.
Jenny decides that she will look for a job and is hired by Noah and Elle who run the popular coffee shop in town called The Coffee Club. As Jenny has been used to being just a customer, it is hard to think of herself as an employee. But she is determined to learn and try to ignore the looks and gossip from her former friends. Jenny soon learns that Chanelle plans on moving into her home, so Noah and Elle agree to let Jenny and April move into their loft above the coffee shop where Jenny and April can share a room. In addition, Jenny moves April from the expensive private school to a local school. These changes are difficult for April to accept but she tries hard and Jenny finds ways to help reward her for her cooperation.
But Zak continues to try and throw roadblocks to thwart any plans Jenny has for April. He wants to keep her in the private school and wants her to live with him and Chanelle. He keeps threatening to take her to court.
Jenny settles in with her new friends, Noah and Elle, who are so helpful and kind to both she and April. As they get to know one another better, they all open up and share their lives.
Will Jenny be able to keep April and raise her or will Zak do as he threatens and take her away?
This is a very involved story that tugs at the heart strings and shows how people can come together and form close friendships as they help one another. I don’t wish to add any more teasers because they could easily turn into spoilers.
I enjoyed the story very much but found the grammar to be atrocious. “Me and Zak, Me and her, etc.” shows the need for a good editor to be brought in. Thus, I gave the book 4 stars instead of 5 stars.
Copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
One evening, Zak tells Jenny he wants to go out for a special dinner as he wants to discuss something with her. She had been thinking of talking to him about her finishing college in fashion design. But when Zak confesses that the business is bankrupt, plus Zak and their rich friend, Chanelle, are together, she is shocked. He tells her that their lovely home will have to be sold too.
Jenny decides that she will look for a job and is hired by Noah and Elle who run the popular coffee shop in town called The Coffee Club. As Jenny has been used to being just a customer, it is hard to think of herself as an employee. But she is determined to learn and try to ignore the looks and gossip from her former friends. Jenny soon learns that Chanelle plans on moving into her home, so Noah and Elle agree to let Jenny and April move into their loft above the coffee shop where Jenny and April can share a room. In addition, Jenny moves April from the expensive private school to a local school. These changes are difficult for April to accept but she tries hard and Jenny finds ways to help reward her for her cooperation.
But Zak continues to try and throw roadblocks to thwart any plans Jenny has for April. He wants to keep her in the private school and wants her to live with him and Chanelle. He keeps threatening to take her to court.
Jenny settles in with her new friends, Noah and Elle, who are so helpful and kind to both she and April. As they get to know one another better, they all open up and share their lives.
Will Jenny be able to keep April and raise her or will Zak do as he threatens and take her away?
This is a very involved story that tugs at the heart strings and shows how people can come together and form close friendships as they help one another. I don’t wish to add any more teasers because they could easily turn into spoilers.
I enjoyed the story very much but found the grammar to be atrocious. “Me and Zak, Me and her, etc.” shows the need for a good editor to be brought in. Thus, I gave the book 4 stars instead of 5 stars.
Copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
October 1, 2017
Not all is what it seems in Jenny Masters' exclusive and rarefied world. On the surface she has a perfect husband - Zak is handsome, physically checks her every wishlist box and is a millionaire fashion mogul to boot. They have one adorable 10year old daughter, April, who attends an exclusive girls school and is just as fashion and appearence obsessed as all her schoolfriends. Her best friend, Chanelle, is a business owner and has just managed to rescue her beauty business with an angel investor and still has time to arrange stylish get-togethers for her daughter Skye (April's best friend) and all the girls from Oakwood School.
One slight problem, well two if we're being honest. Zak is having an affair and has decided that it is stime to split. Oh and the business is on the verge of bankruptcy. Jenny is devastated, all she has ever known is the cosy world of her parent's house and then the elegance of being Mrs Zak Masters and the cachet that this brings. To top it all off Zak hasn't kept up with the school fees so April will have to leave her beloved school and friends in short order.
Living in a small village can be great but it does mean everyone knows your business and wants to talk about it. It is the support network it brings that saves Jenny and reminds her of how to live her life on her terms. Saved by Noah and Elle at The Coffee Club who offer her not only a job but a roof over her and April's head it is time for Jenny to look to the future as herself and not as an adjunct to her husband.
Full of warmth and a generous dash of pathos this was the perfect read for my recent holiday. Although certain plot points were flagged early and came as no surprise when finally revealed, this did not stop my enjoyment of the tale and I found I was really rooting for Jenny. Even when she is miserable and hurt Jenny is still strong and tried to make the best of every trial thrown her and April's way.
I loved that the message of this book was really be true to yourself and that outward appearences are very deceptive and to trust your own judgement about what is best for you and yours. Told with a gentle humour this book is a great escape and you will find yourself promising yourself just one more chapter before turning out the light and then another and another.
One slight problem, well two if we're being honest. Zak is having an affair and has decided that it is stime to split. Oh and the business is on the verge of bankruptcy. Jenny is devastated, all she has ever known is the cosy world of her parent's house and then the elegance of being Mrs Zak Masters and the cachet that this brings. To top it all off Zak hasn't kept up with the school fees so April will have to leave her beloved school and friends in short order.
Living in a small village can be great but it does mean everyone knows your business and wants to talk about it. It is the support network it brings that saves Jenny and reminds her of how to live her life on her terms. Saved by Noah and Elle at The Coffee Club who offer her not only a job but a roof over her and April's head it is time for Jenny to look to the future as herself and not as an adjunct to her husband.
Full of warmth and a generous dash of pathos this was the perfect read for my recent holiday. Although certain plot points were flagged early and came as no surprise when finally revealed, this did not stop my enjoyment of the tale and I found I was really rooting for Jenny. Even when she is miserable and hurt Jenny is still strong and tried to make the best of every trial thrown her and April's way.
I loved that the message of this book was really be true to yourself and that outward appearences are very deceptive and to trust your own judgement about what is best for you and yours. Told with a gentle humour this book is a great escape and you will find yourself promising yourself just one more chapter before turning out the light and then another and another.
June 26, 2017
Contemporary Romantic Fiction comes in two flavours (at least from my experience); light, fluffy and warms the cockles of the heart, and the kind that makes you think. The latter are usually written by authors that have been around for a while and have taken their time to hone their craft. Now, I could find out for how long Ms Tonge has been an author, but that’s immaterial as within the first couple of chapters, I knew, simply knew, that her was the story that has elevated Ms Tonge’s writing to a new level.
And my reason for this sweeping statement? Strangely enough, it’s from the presence of a secondary character and I couldn’t be more pleased to say that. The main characters, Jenny and Zak separate early on and the main narrative is to do with how Jenny and her daughter April cope with their drastically changed situation. Jenny married Zak early in life, Zak being a millionaire, and had known no life different to her pampered existence, until now. Taken in by local coffee shop owner Noah and, the source of my joy at discovering her, Elle.
Jenny, though at first a little difficult to feel sympathy for and therefore an atypical protagonist in the first place, may be the central person around whom everything centres, but it’s the relationship she forges with Elle that made such an impact on this reader. I’d love to tell you just what it is about her, other than the fact that she’s such a well-written character, but I can’t. Suffice to say, there’s one central thing about her that I simply can’t tell you. Buy the book to find out and you won’t be disappointed.
I never give away anything about the story in my reviews – there are plenty of other reviews around if you want to know more about the story but I can and will say that this is one of the most enjoyable stories I’ve read in a while. There are surprises at virtually each turn of the page, and delightedly, not every storyline is tied up neatly at the end; don’t worry, the book doesn’t suffer for that as that is life, not everything comes with a bow around it.
Do yourself a favour, of all the books that are currently out there, this should be the one that you start to read now. Hit that ‘Buy Now’ type button.
And my reason for this sweeping statement? Strangely enough, it’s from the presence of a secondary character and I couldn’t be more pleased to say that. The main characters, Jenny and Zak separate early on and the main narrative is to do with how Jenny and her daughter April cope with their drastically changed situation. Jenny married Zak early in life, Zak being a millionaire, and had known no life different to her pampered existence, until now. Taken in by local coffee shop owner Noah and, the source of my joy at discovering her, Elle.
Jenny, though at first a little difficult to feel sympathy for and therefore an atypical protagonist in the first place, may be the central person around whom everything centres, but it’s the relationship she forges with Elle that made such an impact on this reader. I’d love to tell you just what it is about her, other than the fact that she’s such a well-written character, but I can’t. Suffice to say, there’s one central thing about her that I simply can’t tell you. Buy the book to find out and you won’t be disappointed.
I never give away anything about the story in my reviews – there are plenty of other reviews around if you want to know more about the story but I can and will say that this is one of the most enjoyable stories I’ve read in a while. There are surprises at virtually each turn of the page, and delightedly, not every storyline is tied up neatly at the end; don’t worry, the book doesn’t suffer for that as that is life, not everything comes with a bow around it.
Do yourself a favour, of all the books that are currently out there, this should be the one that you start to read now. Hit that ‘Buy Now’ type button.
May 8, 2017
Jenny Masters didn’t grow up with a privileged lifestyle, she married into it.
But after years of being married to a millionaire, not needing to do anything for herself, and never having to go without, Jenny is kicked to the kerb by her cheating husband, Zachary.
Needing to leave their marital home, she and her daughter April are thrown a lifeline by coffee shop owners, Noah and Elle, who give them somewhere to live, and Jenny a job.
When you’re at your lowest point, with no one to turn to, fate sometimes has other plans for you. For Jenny fate may of caused her heartache, but what she brings to the people she meets in the cafe, and to her daughter and bosses is something that money could never buy.
The New Beginnings Coffee Club may look, and sound like a chick-lit book, but this book goes much deeper and has you far more emotionally involved than a chick-lit book does.
The characters are all realistic and each has their own story to tell. Jenny is one resilient young woman. Her world may of come crashing down on her, but she gathered the strength to pick herself up, face her fears, and move on. Imagine after being married to a millionaire, attending fancy parties, having a cook and a cleaner, and being part of an exclusive club, having to go back to basics and work in a coffee shop!
It’s not just about Jenny though, it’s also about April, her daughter, Noah, Elle, and the coffee shop customers, who all have their own stories to share. The cafe is a place where people who have been through a tough time can come in, grab a brew, and feel the love.
At times the emotions ran high, and I felt myself getting pulled into a story of friendship and kindness, and how being there for one another really helps people cope with problems in their lives.
A feel good book, set in an idyllic little village, that gives you pure escapism. It’s a wonderful, beautiful read with a few surprises along the way to keep you on your toes.
The perfect summer read, that won’t let you down.
Reviewed by Stacey on www.whisperingstories.com
But after years of being married to a millionaire, not needing to do anything for herself, and never having to go without, Jenny is kicked to the kerb by her cheating husband, Zachary.
Needing to leave their marital home, she and her daughter April are thrown a lifeline by coffee shop owners, Noah and Elle, who give them somewhere to live, and Jenny a job.
When you’re at your lowest point, with no one to turn to, fate sometimes has other plans for you. For Jenny fate may of caused her heartache, but what she brings to the people she meets in the cafe, and to her daughter and bosses is something that money could never buy.
The New Beginnings Coffee Club may look, and sound like a chick-lit book, but this book goes much deeper and has you far more emotionally involved than a chick-lit book does.
The characters are all realistic and each has their own story to tell. Jenny is one resilient young woman. Her world may of come crashing down on her, but she gathered the strength to pick herself up, face her fears, and move on. Imagine after being married to a millionaire, attending fancy parties, having a cook and a cleaner, and being part of an exclusive club, having to go back to basics and work in a coffee shop!
It’s not just about Jenny though, it’s also about April, her daughter, Noah, Elle, and the coffee shop customers, who all have their own stories to share. The cafe is a place where people who have been through a tough time can come in, grab a brew, and feel the love.
At times the emotions ran high, and I felt myself getting pulled into a story of friendship and kindness, and how being there for one another really helps people cope with problems in their lives.
A feel good book, set in an idyllic little village, that gives you pure escapism. It’s a wonderful, beautiful read with a few surprises along the way to keep you on your toes.
The perfect summer read, that won’t let you down.
Reviewed by Stacey on www.whisperingstories.com
June 8, 2017
When I picked this up I was expecting a light hearted, easy read. What I got was a heart warming tale of second chances. And I loved it.
The Coffee Club is the best coffee place for miles around, run by Noah and Elle. When Jennys marriage to Zak, the owner of a local fashion house, falls apart after some shocking revelations from the man himself, Jenny finds herself and her 10 yr old daughter April sharing a cottage with the Coffee Club owners. What appears at first glance to be a total comedown complete with public humiliation at leaving a multi millionaire and an 8 bed house to move into a loft conversion where Jenny and April share a room turns into a starting point for a new life, after hitting rock bottom.
This is a story of not only starting over, but finding yourself again. Whether you are a 30 something adult or a 10 yr old child, it's never to late.
We are introduced to such an amazing cast of characters. The author has given them all such depth and are completely relatable. I'd like to say I loved them all, but as with any community, there are some that will grate on you, we can't like everyone, right? And this is testament to the skill of the writer that she can evoke these feelings in the reader and it just makes it all the more believable.
I have to say that I'm finding myself hoping the author has plans to write more stories set in this village. There are a lot of the supporting /fringe characters that I feel I'd like to get to know better. And I'd like to revisit this little group to see how their stories progress further down the line. All in all, a superb read with some profound storylines tackling some hard hitting issues. Dealt with in a sympathetic manner and a book that has clearly been well researched. I highly recommend this to everyone.
The Coffee Club is the best coffee place for miles around, run by Noah and Elle. When Jennys marriage to Zak, the owner of a local fashion house, falls apart after some shocking revelations from the man himself, Jenny finds herself and her 10 yr old daughter April sharing a cottage with the Coffee Club owners. What appears at first glance to be a total comedown complete with public humiliation at leaving a multi millionaire and an 8 bed house to move into a loft conversion where Jenny and April share a room turns into a starting point for a new life, after hitting rock bottom.
This is a story of not only starting over, but finding yourself again. Whether you are a 30 something adult or a 10 yr old child, it's never to late.
We are introduced to such an amazing cast of characters. The author has given them all such depth and are completely relatable. I'd like to say I loved them all, but as with any community, there are some that will grate on you, we can't like everyone, right? And this is testament to the skill of the writer that she can evoke these feelings in the reader and it just makes it all the more believable.
I have to say that I'm finding myself hoping the author has plans to write more stories set in this village. There are a lot of the supporting /fringe characters that I feel I'd like to get to know better. And I'd like to revisit this little group to see how their stories progress further down the line. All in all, a superb read with some profound storylines tackling some hard hitting issues. Dealt with in a sympathetic manner and a book that has clearly been well researched. I highly recommend this to everyone.
October 23, 2017
The New Beginnings Coffee Club was created to gives it's owners just that - A New Beginning, but it is somewhere Jenny feels she would never need for that reason. She is wife to a gorgeous millionaire, lives in a mansion and has a wonderful daughter who is loving life at her privileged private school. However, her little dream isn't set to last when she very quickly loses everything and ends up drowning her sorrows with tea and coffee at The New Beginnings Coffee Club.
What begins as a friendly ear from the owners Noah & Elle turns into a place to stay and a job to get her back on her feet. It really is the second chance she needs, but feels she doesnt deserve. That been said, Jenny then throws herself into creating a new life for her and April. With no help from her ex, and a constant battle from April who is missing her old life - can it really all work out?
Samantha has done it again, she has created a wonderful venue to stop by for a chat with Noah & Elle. Noah and Elle are wonderful people, who have been through there own personal battles and just want to give people somewhere to visit when they need another chance. Noah is a sweet man who could answer any question you would possibly have about coffee. Elle makes for the perfect housemate, a lover of musicals and seeking a new BFF the team just work together so well.
The New Beginnings Coffee Club goes deeper than just a second chance read, it tackles some deeper issues which i didn't expect, but it does it in a wonderful way. It was heart warming and sweet, I loved watching the characters change and discover who they really were and for me that was my favourite thing, especially watching April change from a reality tv obsessed child who didnt want cake to someone miles away from that.
After something to warm the soul? Then Visit the new beginnings coffee club.
What begins as a friendly ear from the owners Noah & Elle turns into a place to stay and a job to get her back on her feet. It really is the second chance she needs, but feels she doesnt deserve. That been said, Jenny then throws herself into creating a new life for her and April. With no help from her ex, and a constant battle from April who is missing her old life - can it really all work out?
Samantha has done it again, she has created a wonderful venue to stop by for a chat with Noah & Elle. Noah and Elle are wonderful people, who have been through there own personal battles and just want to give people somewhere to visit when they need another chance. Noah is a sweet man who could answer any question you would possibly have about coffee. Elle makes for the perfect housemate, a lover of musicals and seeking a new BFF the team just work together so well.
The New Beginnings Coffee Club goes deeper than just a second chance read, it tackles some deeper issues which i didn't expect, but it does it in a wonderful way. It was heart warming and sweet, I loved watching the characters change and discover who they really were and for me that was my favourite thing, especially watching April change from a reality tv obsessed child who didnt want cake to someone miles away from that.
After something to warm the soul? Then Visit the new beginnings coffee club.
August 15, 2017
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in return for an honest review. It was easy to request this book as Samantha Tonge always writes a story worth spending time with and this novel does not disappoint.
Jenny Marsters thought she had it all, well yes, she had to make some compromises along the way but it was so worth it for the return. She has the handsome husband, the beautiful bright daughter and the fabulous home. She entertains and smoozes with the best. Life is great, but she is about to find out that it is all an illusion.
After life becomes completely unraveled, Jenny finds herself moving with her ten-year-old daughter, April, into a shared apartment with her new bosses Noah and Ella. Suddenly everything is both simpler and far more complicated as she navigates how to froth milk for coffee and encourage her daughter that getting a little dirty is not a bad thing.
This is a charming story with quite a bit of grit underneath the surface. Jenny's relationships and her growth as a character make this a thoroughly engaging book as you totally barrack for her and hope that things are only going to get better for her and April. Ella and Noah are super friends and the whole village seems to become involved in Jenny's journey back to herself. No topic was taboo as the story evolved and I thought the issues that became uncovered were handled with a certain sensitivity. I was certainly drawn in and surprised by some of the moments that occurred. This book really shows that it's never too late to remember who you are and be that person again. One for the reading list.
Jenny Marsters thought she had it all, well yes, she had to make some compromises along the way but it was so worth it for the return. She has the handsome husband, the beautiful bright daughter and the fabulous home. She entertains and smoozes with the best. Life is great, but she is about to find out that it is all an illusion.
After life becomes completely unraveled, Jenny finds herself moving with her ten-year-old daughter, April, into a shared apartment with her new bosses Noah and Ella. Suddenly everything is both simpler and far more complicated as she navigates how to froth milk for coffee and encourage her daughter that getting a little dirty is not a bad thing.
This is a charming story with quite a bit of grit underneath the surface. Jenny's relationships and her growth as a character make this a thoroughly engaging book as you totally barrack for her and hope that things are only going to get better for her and April. Ella and Noah are super friends and the whole village seems to become involved in Jenny's journey back to herself. No topic was taboo as the story evolved and I thought the issues that became uncovered were handled with a certain sensitivity. I was certainly drawn in and surprised by some of the moments that occurred. This book really shows that it's never too late to remember who you are and be that person again. One for the reading list.
May 5, 2017
THE NEW BEGINNINGS COFFEE CLUB by Samantha Tonge is one of the freshest, captivating, and inspiring contemporary fiction novels that I have read in a very long time. I don't know how I haven't read anything from this author before, but that is something I am definitely going to rectify as I embark on another bookish shopping spree - don't tell anyone!!
The characters are so full of depth and emotion that you cannot help but get really attached to them as their lives unfold before us on the page. The pace is perfect with just enough humour, heartbreak, and self-discovery to carry you along its excellent journey from beginning to end.
When Jenny's picture perfect world implodes, she is really forced to look at herself, who she had become, and the kind of role model she wanted to be for her very impressionable ten-year-old daughter. Finding unexpected kindness and compassion from Noah and Elle, who run the local coffee shop, she soon finds friendship, confidence, and a place to clear her head.
As the story continues, we watch as Jenny, Noah, Elle, April, and others are forced to look at who they are and what they want from life, with many surprises along the way that will really burrow into your heart and take root there.
THE NEW BEGINNINGS COFFEE CLUB by Samantha Tonge is such a beautiful story of friendship, love, honesty, and embracing the person you are meant to be in this world. This novel is absolutely breathtaking and one that all fiction fans should read.
*I voluntarily reviewed this book from Netgalley.com
The characters are so full of depth and emotion that you cannot help but get really attached to them as their lives unfold before us on the page. The pace is perfect with just enough humour, heartbreak, and self-discovery to carry you along its excellent journey from beginning to end.
When Jenny's picture perfect world implodes, she is really forced to look at herself, who she had become, and the kind of role model she wanted to be for her very impressionable ten-year-old daughter. Finding unexpected kindness and compassion from Noah and Elle, who run the local coffee shop, she soon finds friendship, confidence, and a place to clear her head.
As the story continues, we watch as Jenny, Noah, Elle, April, and others are forced to look at who they are and what they want from life, with many surprises along the way that will really burrow into your heart and take root there.
THE NEW BEGINNINGS COFFEE CLUB by Samantha Tonge is such a beautiful story of friendship, love, honesty, and embracing the person you are meant to be in this world. This novel is absolutely breathtaking and one that all fiction fans should read.
*I voluntarily reviewed this book from Netgalley.com
May 4, 2017
When Jenny finds herself having to carve out a new life for her and her daughter following a shocking discovery about her marriage, things feel very tough and scary. Her husband was a very wealthy man and she'd got used the to the trappings of success.
She has to try and get her little girl to adapt to life with no luxuries, hoping to instil in her the lovely childhood values that she herself enjoyed.
April finds it a little tough to adjust- but we see her life begin to relax into a much calmer, happier and healthier lifestyle. I loved the wishes that she came up with and how her mum managed to make these days into mini life experiences for her.
The Coffee Club where she finds work and lodging sounds a wonderful place to spend time and Noah and Elle the perfect friends to help rebuild your life and confidence. The strong sense of friendships run through the book and is really heartwarming. I loved the customers and hearing about the villagers and was quite sad to say goodbye. There are some amusing exchanges and also characters who give you belief in humanity. Samantha's books always transport you to an idyllic place- feeling warm and cosy getting to know new friends and settling down in wonderful locations. I was quite happy to settle down for a few hours with a great book and a lovely cup of coffee and just lose myself completely.
She has to try and get her little girl to adapt to life with no luxuries, hoping to instil in her the lovely childhood values that she herself enjoyed.
April finds it a little tough to adjust- but we see her life begin to relax into a much calmer, happier and healthier lifestyle. I loved the wishes that she came up with and how her mum managed to make these days into mini life experiences for her.
The Coffee Club where she finds work and lodging sounds a wonderful place to spend time and Noah and Elle the perfect friends to help rebuild your life and confidence. The strong sense of friendships run through the book and is really heartwarming. I loved the customers and hearing about the villagers and was quite sad to say goodbye. There are some amusing exchanges and also characters who give you belief in humanity. Samantha's books always transport you to an idyllic place- feeling warm and cosy getting to know new friends and settling down in wonderful locations. I was quite happy to settle down for a few hours with a great book and a lovely cup of coffee and just lose myself completely.
June 5, 2017
I have been lucky enough to read quite a few Samantha's books in the last couple of years, but I think that her brand new book The New Beginning Coffee Club is her best and quite deepest of all.
Samantha is a very on trend author and can bring us, readers, stories that managed to touch on many modern day issues and taboos weaving them expertly into heartwarming as well as heartbreaking storylines with well-crafted characters along the way.
I fell in love with Jenny's story and could not take my eyes off the pages as she builds a new life for her and her very adorable daughter April on a very different and much more realistic budget. I relate to Jenny's worries because I too have daughters and I know how absorbing they can be to any new trends and crazies, so it was so wonderful to see who April slowly changed back to more of a healthy and happy eight-year-old girl.
I also adored Noah and Ellie they added another dimension to the story as they help Jenny to accept her new beginnings.
The book is oozing with warmth, charm, emotions, joy, heartbreak and much more. And the cherry on the cake is the essence of a great coffee enjoyed with friends you can rely on in every situation.
Samantha is a very on trend author and can bring us, readers, stories that managed to touch on many modern day issues and taboos weaving them expertly into heartwarming as well as heartbreaking storylines with well-crafted characters along the way.
I fell in love with Jenny's story and could not take my eyes off the pages as she builds a new life for her and her very adorable daughter April on a very different and much more realistic budget. I relate to Jenny's worries because I too have daughters and I know how absorbing they can be to any new trends and crazies, so it was so wonderful to see who April slowly changed back to more of a healthy and happy eight-year-old girl.
I also adored Noah and Ellie they added another dimension to the story as they help Jenny to accept her new beginnings.
The book is oozing with warmth, charm, emotions, joy, heartbreak and much more. And the cherry on the cake is the essence of a great coffee enjoyed with friends you can rely on in every situation.
May 5, 2017
I'm a bit of a coffee addict so as soon as I saw the title for Samantha Tonge's latest book I just couldn't resist requesting it!
The authors warm writing style shone through right from the start as I was embraced by comfortable characters and easy to visualise scenes. I loved the idea of the coffee club and couldn't wait to delve deeper into that side of the storyline.
Jenny seemed to have the perfect life until a life-changing revelation brought it all crashing down around her. There were some difficult scenes that followed and I couldn't help but feel sad for Jenny and her daughter. The author captured the complexities of Jenny's life beautifully, the after-effects of the devastating event were described in vivid detail and left me feeling quite emotional.
As her life moved forward I enjoyed seeing how she dealt with each obstacle she came across. The coffee shop felt like the perfect safe haven for someone who had reached a crossroads and needed time to collect their thoughts.
I would have liked to have read a bit more about the coffee club itself and also its members, it was one of the things that attracted me to this book so I was a little disappointed.
As the title suggests, this was a warm tale of new beginnings. A charming read, perfect for curling up on the sofa with a nice cuppa!
The authors warm writing style shone through right from the start as I was embraced by comfortable characters and easy to visualise scenes. I loved the idea of the coffee club and couldn't wait to delve deeper into that side of the storyline.
Jenny seemed to have the perfect life until a life-changing revelation brought it all crashing down around her. There were some difficult scenes that followed and I couldn't help but feel sad for Jenny and her daughter. The author captured the complexities of Jenny's life beautifully, the after-effects of the devastating event were described in vivid detail and left me feeling quite emotional.
As her life moved forward I enjoyed seeing how she dealt with each obstacle she came across. The coffee shop felt like the perfect safe haven for someone who had reached a crossroads and needed time to collect their thoughts.
I would have liked to have read a bit more about the coffee club itself and also its members, it was one of the things that attracted me to this book so I was a little disappointed.
As the title suggests, this was a warm tale of new beginnings. A charming read, perfect for curling up on the sofa with a nice cuppa!
September 6, 2017
What an absolutely fabu-licious (in the words of April, one of the characters in this book) book. One of the best books I've ever read.
A book of reinventing yourself; learning to live with less; finding out who you really are; keeping strong while inside you're crumbling and showing that, if your world as you know it comes tumbling down around you, you can rise again, like a phoenix from the ashes.
Jenny's world comes crashing down around her, everything she's known is taken away from her in an instant and she has to start again with her daughter, April.
Noah and Elle have had to start again too, for different reasons to Jenny.
Between them all, they support each other as they put their lives back together and make changes for the better.
Full of hope and inspiration, an excellent book; well written and conceived with strong characters who are believable.
This is definitely a book worth reading. I just couldn't put it down and devoured it over several hours in 2 sittings.
A book of reinventing yourself; learning to live with less; finding out who you really are; keeping strong while inside you're crumbling and showing that, if your world as you know it comes tumbling down around you, you can rise again, like a phoenix from the ashes.
Jenny's world comes crashing down around her, everything she's known is taken away from her in an instant and she has to start again with her daughter, April.
Noah and Elle have had to start again too, for different reasons to Jenny.
Between them all, they support each other as they put their lives back together and make changes for the better.
Full of hope and inspiration, an excellent book; well written and conceived with strong characters who are believable.
This is definitely a book worth reading. I just couldn't put it down and devoured it over several hours in 2 sittings.
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