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The Hamptons #1
Everything Happens for a Reason
Shaken from the sudden death of her mother, Poppy Jackson’s only light amidst all the darkness is the prospect of embarking on an exciting new career with major investment stockbrokers Hawkins, Munroe and Sable, working as PA to the amiable Greg Sable.
The company’s Annual Conference is a big deal in the stock broking world and though keen to impress, Poppy’s focus wavers at the appearance of the cheeky Oliver Sullivan. After a rocky start, an unexpected romance begins to bloom. Can their love overcome their conflicting backgrounds? And how will Poppy cope when tragedy strikes a second time?
Meanwhile, having made the shocking discovery of his real birth father’s identity, Richard Jones decides to earn the right to take control of the family business and not just because he’d inherited it. His mother, however, is growing increasingly frustrated at his refusal to step up. Itching to put her own plans into progress she increases the pressure, completely oblivious to the consequences.
Curl up and relax with this tale of love, loss and everything in between, and watch as the worlds of Poppy and Richard are drawn together in a twist of fate, proving that everything really does happen for a reason…
The company’s Annual Conference is a big deal in the stock broking world and though keen to impress, Poppy’s focus wavers at the appearance of the cheeky Oliver Sullivan. After a rocky start, an unexpected romance begins to bloom. Can their love overcome their conflicting backgrounds? And how will Poppy cope when tragedy strikes a second time?
Meanwhile, having made the shocking discovery of his real birth father’s identity, Richard Jones decides to earn the right to take control of the family business and not just because he’d inherited it. His mother, however, is growing increasingly frustrated at his refusal to step up. Itching to put her own plans into progress she increases the pressure, completely oblivious to the consequences.
Curl up and relax with this tale of love, loss and everything in between, and watch as the worlds of Poppy and Richard are drawn together in a twist of fate, proving that everything really does happen for a reason…
- GenresRomance
Unknown Binding
First published January 17, 2017
16 people are currently reading
624 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
April 3, 2018
Everything happens to, around and only because of Poppy. She seems to have it all: beauty, character, good manners, intelligence, love, success...but as there is no such thing as perfection, life was often cruel to her. Even though she never lost her smile and her good heart, she did at moments lost her hope. The hope to have again something that she once lost. Page after page, with a gradually increased intensity, the story of Poppy becomes addictive and you simply can’t put the book off, curious and surprised to see what’s happening next. It is definitely a plot that proves that everything does happen for a reason and the author worked it brilliantly. Wonderfully written, smartly deployed, a novel I surely recommend. This is the author’s debut novel and it simply makes you wanna read the sequel and find what more had happened in The Hamptons.
Reader type: If you like romance, chick lit or a lover of women’s fiction with twists and turns, look no further. The book is so wonderfully written, perfectly crafted and you will not even realize what is going on around you as you are breathing with the story and its characters. A true page-turner.
My favorite quotes from this book:
“Then, suddenly, Poppy recalled her thoughts from earlier in the day, making her gasp. Hadn’t she’d wished for an urgent drama to appear, enabling her to escape tonight’s dinner? Completely horrified at having harboured such thoughts – which had now become reality – her hand flew to her mouth in an effort to stifle the sob that was currently rising in her throat. Of course, she knew it wasn’t her fault really, but that didn’t stop the small feeling of guilt from blossoming deep in her gut.”
“She was quite taken aback; no one had ever been this forthright with her before. Ever. And anyway, what did he mean she intrigued him? Irked, she turned to look at him, her eyes flashing dark with anger.”
“His gaze fell to her dark hair, cascading gently around her face and shoulders. She was so beautiful; all he really wanted to do was to envelope her in his arms.”
More book reviews on: https://www.nicojgenes.com/book-reviews
Reader type: If you like romance, chick lit or a lover of women’s fiction with twists and turns, look no further. The book is so wonderfully written, perfectly crafted and you will not even realize what is going on around you as you are breathing with the story and its characters. A true page-turner.
My favorite quotes from this book:
“Then, suddenly, Poppy recalled her thoughts from earlier in the day, making her gasp. Hadn’t she’d wished for an urgent drama to appear, enabling her to escape tonight’s dinner? Completely horrified at having harboured such thoughts – which had now become reality – her hand flew to her mouth in an effort to stifle the sob that was currently rising in her throat. Of course, she knew it wasn’t her fault really, but that didn’t stop the small feeling of guilt from blossoming deep in her gut.”
“She was quite taken aback; no one had ever been this forthright with her before. Ever. And anyway, what did he mean she intrigued him? Irked, she turned to look at him, her eyes flashing dark with anger.”
“His gaze fell to her dark hair, cascading gently around her face and shoulders. She was so beautiful; all he really wanted to do was to envelope her in his arms.”
More book reviews on: https://www.nicojgenes.com/book-reviews
June 13, 2017
I was drawn to this story from beginning to end. Poppy is a remarkable character she strong confident woman with her struggles with her painful memories, all the characters are amazing and captivating. Tina Marie Miller is a talented author this story was beautifully written with surprising plots and twist with love loss and so much more. I highly recommend this extraordinary story a must read.
February 2, 2021
Lovely story.
Poppy's character was perfect in every sense of the word. Working in the corporate world, she is very interested in her work and not given to other social interests in life.
Entry Oliver and what starts as a romance, weaves a tangled love web around the characters. There are plenty of twists and turns and some memorable side characters as we learn the reason for the title. Liked it.
Poppy's character was perfect in every sense of the word. Working in the corporate world, she is very interested in her work and not given to other social interests in life.
Entry Oliver and what starts as a romance, weaves a tangled love web around the characters. There are plenty of twists and turns and some memorable side characters as we learn the reason for the title. Liked it.
October 7, 2018
Everything Happens For A Reason is a beautiful hybrid.
“This was life in the city, after all: fast, competitive, ruthless, and… fun.”
It’s part chick-lit, but more so women’s fiction in the classic sense that we have a heroine, Poppy, who begins the story as a young career woman from the Cotswolds. She is independent, good looking and strong, finding her way in London with a great career, romance with a super-fine boyfriend who seems a bit too perfect to be true, Ollie, and a messy flat-mate named Orla.
It easily could have remained chick-lit (as in light and airy) with the initial details, but the author went deeper. Much deeper in fact, into the trials that come after the relationship changes - when things stop making sense. There is a sudden loss, then another and family matters become a more important theme that dominates the fluid plot.
“Irked, she turned to look at him, her eyes flashing dark with anger. ‘I’m not a plaything, you know.” Oh I loved this line! Why more women don’t talk and think this way is beyond me! Go Poppy!
Poppy is feisty, headstrong and I admire that she is no pushover. Her reactions are sometimes a bit too quick, a little too defensive. Rather than this detracting from an incredibly likeable character, she becomes three dimensional and real. The sort of woman many women long to have as a friend but most of us never manage to find.
“In the flat above Professor Smedley lived an adorable lady called Maisie, an eccentric cockney well into her 80’s with eyes as bright as two shiny buttons.” The details concerning secondary characters are spot on and give great flavor and add delight to the story. There is also a balance between town and country scenes which help create a full rounded view of life in the U.K.
Her best friend Sally is a country girl, a bit rough around the edges, but full of life. When she meets Poppy’s new beau Ollie, it seems she’s a bit over excited for the love match. “She watched her gaily introducing him to everyone else, wincing each time she referred to Oliver as ‘Poppy’s bit of stuff’, and occasionally adding, ‘he’s a bit of alright, ‘aint he?”
There is playful humor woven in throughout the story that kept it from being too serious and along with romance that is well written with just a touch of spice. The author keeps it classy. The smooth style made for a cozy, and uplifting novel even when some extremely difficult topics were being covered. Death, infidelity, and a big surprise that I won’t reveal here.
There are many twists, a few major doozies and shocking reveals throughout, which I enjoyed immensely. I could go on and on, but if any of this sounds good to you, perhaps you should just read it and draw your own conclusions?
This is the second book I’ve read from this author and now I know when I’m in the mood for an upbeat storyline with a strong female lead, memorable but flawed characters painted with a bit of humor and a sketch on life in all its glory and imperfections… this author’s writing will give me the perfect escape.
“He might have been on his sixth marriage, but he still maintained an excellent relationship with his five previous ex-wives." This line made me laugh out loud, because it reminded me immediately of someone I used to know. Just fabulous!
“This was life in the city, after all: fast, competitive, ruthless, and… fun.”
It’s part chick-lit, but more so women’s fiction in the classic sense that we have a heroine, Poppy, who begins the story as a young career woman from the Cotswolds. She is independent, good looking and strong, finding her way in London with a great career, romance with a super-fine boyfriend who seems a bit too perfect to be true, Ollie, and a messy flat-mate named Orla.
It easily could have remained chick-lit (as in light and airy) with the initial details, but the author went deeper. Much deeper in fact, into the trials that come after the relationship changes - when things stop making sense. There is a sudden loss, then another and family matters become a more important theme that dominates the fluid plot.
“Irked, she turned to look at him, her eyes flashing dark with anger. ‘I’m not a plaything, you know.” Oh I loved this line! Why more women don’t talk and think this way is beyond me! Go Poppy!
Poppy is feisty, headstrong and I admire that she is no pushover. Her reactions are sometimes a bit too quick, a little too defensive. Rather than this detracting from an incredibly likeable character, she becomes three dimensional and real. The sort of woman many women long to have as a friend but most of us never manage to find.
“In the flat above Professor Smedley lived an adorable lady called Maisie, an eccentric cockney well into her 80’s with eyes as bright as two shiny buttons.” The details concerning secondary characters are spot on and give great flavor and add delight to the story. There is also a balance between town and country scenes which help create a full rounded view of life in the U.K.
Her best friend Sally is a country girl, a bit rough around the edges, but full of life. When she meets Poppy’s new beau Ollie, it seems she’s a bit over excited for the love match. “She watched her gaily introducing him to everyone else, wincing each time she referred to Oliver as ‘Poppy’s bit of stuff’, and occasionally adding, ‘he’s a bit of alright, ‘aint he?”
There is playful humor woven in throughout the story that kept it from being too serious and along with romance that is well written with just a touch of spice. The author keeps it classy. The smooth style made for a cozy, and uplifting novel even when some extremely difficult topics were being covered. Death, infidelity, and a big surprise that I won’t reveal here.
There are many twists, a few major doozies and shocking reveals throughout, which I enjoyed immensely. I could go on and on, but if any of this sounds good to you, perhaps you should just read it and draw your own conclusions?
This is the second book I’ve read from this author and now I know when I’m in the mood for an upbeat storyline with a strong female lead, memorable but flawed characters painted with a bit of humor and a sketch on life in all its glory and imperfections… this author’s writing will give me the perfect escape.
“He might have been on his sixth marriage, but he still maintained an excellent relationship with his five previous ex-wives." This line made me laugh out loud, because it reminded me immediately of someone I used to know. Just fabulous!
January 11, 2018
A beautifully crafted novel, and a startling debut for Tina-Marie Miller...I loved every chapter of this intelligent romance.
Poppy Jackson is coming to terms with the sudden death of her mother, when the prospect of an enticing new career presents itself to her.
While eager to impress and keep focus on her new role, she cannot help but fall for the charming Oliver- yet just as I am settling in to their new relationship, the plot twists to an unexpected and heart-rending direction.
When describing the loss of a loved one, I found Miller's narrative so compelling and true, ( " ...his voice lingering in her memory even now, drifting around her mind like a fallen butterfly." ) that I wondered if the words were part of her own story. This happens rarely for me, and as all great writers do she had me turning pages to the end, hoping for a happy end to the relatable Poppy's tale.
I believe the theme of this novel perhaps to be of fate, and that events in our life, however tragic and unfair they me seem at the time, do indeed happen for a reason. As a reader that brought me comfort as the story ended, without the need for flowery prose and sugar-coating. We move on from despair and learn to keep our hearts open.
This book is special. A well earned five stars, and I look forward to reading more from this talented author.
Poppy Jackson is coming to terms with the sudden death of her mother, when the prospect of an enticing new career presents itself to her.
While eager to impress and keep focus on her new role, she cannot help but fall for the charming Oliver- yet just as I am settling in to their new relationship, the plot twists to an unexpected and heart-rending direction.
When describing the loss of a loved one, I found Miller's narrative so compelling and true, ( " ...his voice lingering in her memory even now, drifting around her mind like a fallen butterfly." ) that I wondered if the words were part of her own story. This happens rarely for me, and as all great writers do she had me turning pages to the end, hoping for a happy end to the relatable Poppy's tale.
I believe the theme of this novel perhaps to be of fate, and that events in our life, however tragic and unfair they me seem at the time, do indeed happen for a reason. As a reader that brought me comfort as the story ended, without the need for flowery prose and sugar-coating. We move on from despair and learn to keep our hearts open.
This book is special. A well earned five stars, and I look forward to reading more from this talented author.
January 12, 2019
Poppy Jackson endures a rollercoaster ride of emotions, unpredictable twists and turns, acquaintances that leave her life and then unexpectedly return – all in her never-ending search for happiness. With a fast-moving plot and highly defined characters, Everything Happens for a Reason is a story all will enjoy. Highly recommended.
August 13, 2018
Poppy Jackson moved away from her home town of Hampton when her mother died unexpectedly, determined to gain a career as a PA. It turns out that she was good at her job, and despite her loss everything was going well for her. But, life was about to change when she meets and falls in love with Oliver.
Tina- Marie has a beautiful writing style that draws the reader in. I found that when I wasn't reading the book, I was certainly thinking about Poppy!
Poppy is a head strong determined lady. It is the reason why she survives the heartache of losing her mother, and for (without giving too much away) is to come.
A very enjoyable read!!
Tina- Marie has a beautiful writing style that draws the reader in. I found that when I wasn't reading the book, I was certainly thinking about Poppy!
Poppy is a head strong determined lady. It is the reason why she survives the heartache of losing her mother, and for (without giving too much away) is to come.
A very enjoyable read!!
January 26, 2018
Everything Happens for a Reason is a sweet romance with a generous helping of sentimental and heart breaking moments. I have to confess the story had me in tears on many occasions.
Poppy is a sweet, clever and incredibly strong main character and I found myself praying for her happy ending.
There were some interesting twists and turns throughout the storyline which flowed beautifully.
I loved this book and look forward to reading more from this talented author.
Poppy is a sweet, clever and incredibly strong main character and I found myself praying for her happy ending.
There were some interesting twists and turns throughout the storyline which flowed beautifully.
I loved this book and look forward to reading more from this talented author.
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December 31, 2019
The first book in Author Tina-Marie Miller's Hampton series is a delight to read as we peak into the lives of the residents and visitors of this British countryside haven. We see the story through the eyes of main character Poppy Jackson, a young woman who is dealing with the heart break and loss of her mother. She's bright, successful and on her way up as the personal assistant of CEO Greg Sable, head of the investment stockbroker firm of Hawkins, Monroe and Sable. A professional success, Poppy is starting to look for the man of her dreams--but with a demanding work environment, will she ever have the time to find him?
Enter Oliver Sullivan, an up and comer at a competing firm with ties to her boss, Greg. A chance encounter at first seems promising. Time and business intervene however, leading Poppy to think their evening together was just not meant to be. Fate deals a gentler hand with their second liaison, as Oliver and Poppy meet again, this time allowing their relationship to grow and flourish. Things seem perfect...but are they?
Family drama, tragedy, personal and professional turmoil emerge as we follow Poppy and her friends and family weave through a tangled spectrum of life events. We laugh, we cry, we hope for the future as we meet new acquaintances and experience the challenges that transform her life. A heartwarming tale with enchanting characters--a great read indeed! I'll be back for more in this series, that's the Hamptons!
Enter Oliver Sullivan, an up and comer at a competing firm with ties to her boss, Greg. A chance encounter at first seems promising. Time and business intervene however, leading Poppy to think their evening together was just not meant to be. Fate deals a gentler hand with their second liaison, as Oliver and Poppy meet again, this time allowing their relationship to grow and flourish. Things seem perfect...but are they?
Family drama, tragedy, personal and professional turmoil emerge as we follow Poppy and her friends and family weave through a tangled spectrum of life events. We laugh, we cry, we hope for the future as we meet new acquaintances and experience the challenges that transform her life. A heartwarming tale with enchanting characters--a great read indeed! I'll be back for more in this series, that's the Hamptons!
September 23, 2017
A Power and Beauty of Destiny
I was given this moving book by the author, and boy, I wasn’t disappointed. It is a very relaxing and captivating read, with good, developed characters, like those we meet daily. The main character, Poppy, reminded me of young women I’d already met at some point in my life.
Poppy tried to live her life like every other ambitious young woman who dares to reach for her star. Smart and driven, she tried to balance her life between her career and her private life. Just as in reality, there are many struggles and successes, losses and loves, and unhealed wounds and painful memories of her past. Luckily for her, she has great people in her life that she can trust and who support her completely.
Tina-Marie Miller did superb work in creating her characters. It was a smart strategy to show readers the city and country life that many readers could relate to. At first the story appears as a charismatic and loving fantasy, but its innocence soon disappears and the sweet illusion is crushed by the disturbing events and tragedies. I admit this story kept me wondering what would happen in the end, but I’m not willing to share my thoughts; each reader must find it for themselves…
I was given this moving book by the author, and boy, I wasn’t disappointed. It is a very relaxing and captivating read, with good, developed characters, like those we meet daily. The main character, Poppy, reminded me of young women I’d already met at some point in my life.
Poppy tried to live her life like every other ambitious young woman who dares to reach for her star. Smart and driven, she tried to balance her life between her career and her private life. Just as in reality, there are many struggles and successes, losses and loves, and unhealed wounds and painful memories of her past. Luckily for her, she has great people in her life that she can trust and who support her completely.
Tina-Marie Miller did superb work in creating her characters. It was a smart strategy to show readers the city and country life that many readers could relate to. At first the story appears as a charismatic and loving fantasy, but its innocence soon disappears and the sweet illusion is crushed by the disturbing events and tragedies. I admit this story kept me wondering what would happen in the end, but I’m not willing to share my thoughts; each reader must find it for themselves…
March 6, 2018
Poppy, in her 20s, pretty and clever, has overcome her mother’s sudden death and has made it to a PA job in a prestigious London stockbrokers firm. Her life gets better and better, especially from the moment she gets to know one of her boss’s friends and colleagues, Oliver Sullivan, stunningly handsome, immensely successful and – single! Though in the beginning he doesn’t seem very much interested in her, their romance finally gets going, and Oliver proposes to her. But, as the title implies, things are going to happen that will make Poppy wonder at first if they really happen for a reason…
Although it seems to start out like a simple billionaire romance, “Everything Happens for a Reason” is much more than that; it’s the story of a young woman who has to endure various strokes of fate but keeps going until she finally finds happiness and understands that, actually, everything DOES happen for a reason!
An engaging read with lovable characters, a bit melodramatic at times maybe, but with an overall feeling that happiness comes to everyone at long last.
Although it seems to start out like a simple billionaire romance, “Everything Happens for a Reason” is much more than that; it’s the story of a young woman who has to endure various strokes of fate but keeps going until she finally finds happiness and understands that, actually, everything DOES happen for a reason!
An engaging read with lovable characters, a bit melodramatic at times maybe, but with an overall feeling that happiness comes to everyone at long last.
October 22, 2019
Tina-Marie Miller creates a heartwarming tale in Everything Happens for a Reason! Poppy Jackson is looking for a nice smooth-sailing life, but when Oliver Sullivan shows up, she finds anything but. I really enjoyed Poppy and Oliver and the chemistry between them! This was a great book filled with secrets and warmth, a wonderful uplifting and light read!
April 3, 2021
Book Review
Basic Details:
Book Title: Everything Happens for a Reason
Subtitle: (The Hamptons Book 1)
Author: Tina-Marie Miller
Genre: Women’s Fiction
Part of a series? Yes
Order in series: 1
Best read after earlier books in series?
Available: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3...
Overall score:
I scored this book 4/5
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Short Summary of the book:
Losing your mother suddenly has a major impact on you. However, Poppy does not allow this to bring her down and embarks on a successful career as a PA.
When she meets Oliver, she initially considers him rude but soon falls for his charms.
All goes well and they are about to be married. And then, she wakes up and finds him dead in the bed next to her.
With her world in tatters, she has to find her way out of depression and put her life back together again. Many surprises follow.
What I liked about the book:
The book is difficult to put down.
What I didn’t like about the book:
I really enjoyed this book.
My favourite bits in the book:
The twists and turns.
My least favourite bits in the book:
There weren’t any.
Any further books in the series? Any more planned by this author?
This is the first book in the series and I would be interested to see what will happen to Poppy next. I’m not sure we will follow Poppy in the next book but I can’t wait to find out what happens next.
What books could this be compared to and why?
It is difficult to find a book to compare this one with. It has a hint of the old-style romance books.
Recommendation:
In summary, I would recommend this book for the following readers:
Children No
Young Adult Perhaps
Adult Yes
If you like romance stories, this book may be the book for you.
I’m certainly looking forward to reading more by this author.
Book Description by Author:
Shaken from the sudden death of her mother, Poppy Jackson’s only light amidst all the darkness is the prospect of embarking on an exciting new career with major investment stockbrokers Hawkins, Munroe and Sable, working as PA to the amiable Greg Sable.
The company’s Annual Conference is a big deal in the stock broking world and though keen to impress, Poppy’s focus wavers at the appearance of the cheeky Oliver Sullivan. After a rocky start, an unexpected romance begins to bloom. Can their love overcome their conflicting backgrounds? And how will Poppy cope when tragedy strikes a second time?
Meanwhile, having made the shocking discovery of his real birth father’s identity, Richard Jones decides to earn the right to take control of the family business and not just because he’d inherited it. His mother, however, is growing increasingly frustrated at his refusal to step up. Itching to put her own plans into progress she increases the pressure, completely oblivious to the consequences.
Curl up and relax with this tale of love, loss and everything in between, and watch as the worlds of Poppy and Richard are drawn together in a twist of fate, proving that everything really does happen for a reason…
About the Author:
I was born in the mid-60s to working class parents and grew up in a small village in the depths of the Oxfordshire countryside. My secondary school report details my social and sporting activity as ‘Disco Dancing!’ Whilst I might not be able to cut a groove on the dance floor these days, writing and music are very much in my soul.
I enjoyed a successful career working for a number of financial and pharmaceutical institutions based in London and the Home Counties before taking a break to bring up my children. Now that they are adults, I have the opportunity to write down all the stories that have been flowing through my mind all these years – and I so enjoy it!
My stories are filled with love, life, family and friendships. My books are also known for their surprising and unexpected twists!
These days, I have swapped the dance floor for the idyllic beaches of Cornwall where I now live. I can often be found somewhere along the coast, losing myself in a book or two or three...
You can discover more about me and my work at www.tinamariemiller.co.uk. I love connecting with my readers and can be found on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram as @tinseymiller.
Basic Details:
Book Title: Everything Happens for a Reason
Subtitle: (The Hamptons Book 1)
Author: Tina-Marie Miller
Genre: Women’s Fiction
Part of a series? Yes
Order in series: 1
Best read after earlier books in series?
Available: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3...
Overall score:
I scored this book 4/5
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Short Summary of the book:
Losing your mother suddenly has a major impact on you. However, Poppy does not allow this to bring her down and embarks on a successful career as a PA.
When she meets Oliver, she initially considers him rude but soon falls for his charms.
All goes well and they are about to be married. And then, she wakes up and finds him dead in the bed next to her.
With her world in tatters, she has to find her way out of depression and put her life back together again. Many surprises follow.
What I liked about the book:
The book is difficult to put down.
What I didn’t like about the book:
I really enjoyed this book.
My favourite bits in the book:
The twists and turns.
My least favourite bits in the book:
There weren’t any.
Any further books in the series? Any more planned by this author?
This is the first book in the series and I would be interested to see what will happen to Poppy next. I’m not sure we will follow Poppy in the next book but I can’t wait to find out what happens next.
What books could this be compared to and why?
It is difficult to find a book to compare this one with. It has a hint of the old-style romance books.
Recommendation:
In summary, I would recommend this book for the following readers:
Children No
Young Adult Perhaps
Adult Yes
If you like romance stories, this book may be the book for you.
I’m certainly looking forward to reading more by this author.
Book Description by Author:
Shaken from the sudden death of her mother, Poppy Jackson’s only light amidst all the darkness is the prospect of embarking on an exciting new career with major investment stockbrokers Hawkins, Munroe and Sable, working as PA to the amiable Greg Sable.
The company’s Annual Conference is a big deal in the stock broking world and though keen to impress, Poppy’s focus wavers at the appearance of the cheeky Oliver Sullivan. After a rocky start, an unexpected romance begins to bloom. Can their love overcome their conflicting backgrounds? And how will Poppy cope when tragedy strikes a second time?
Meanwhile, having made the shocking discovery of his real birth father’s identity, Richard Jones decides to earn the right to take control of the family business and not just because he’d inherited it. His mother, however, is growing increasingly frustrated at his refusal to step up. Itching to put her own plans into progress she increases the pressure, completely oblivious to the consequences.
Curl up and relax with this tale of love, loss and everything in between, and watch as the worlds of Poppy and Richard are drawn together in a twist of fate, proving that everything really does happen for a reason…
About the Author:
I was born in the mid-60s to working class parents and grew up in a small village in the depths of the Oxfordshire countryside. My secondary school report details my social and sporting activity as ‘Disco Dancing!’ Whilst I might not be able to cut a groove on the dance floor these days, writing and music are very much in my soul.
I enjoyed a successful career working for a number of financial and pharmaceutical institutions based in London and the Home Counties before taking a break to bring up my children. Now that they are adults, I have the opportunity to write down all the stories that have been flowing through my mind all these years – and I so enjoy it!
My stories are filled with love, life, family and friendships. My books are also known for their surprising and unexpected twists!
These days, I have swapped the dance floor for the idyllic beaches of Cornwall where I now live. I can often be found somewhere along the coast, losing myself in a book or two or three...
You can discover more about me and my work at www.tinamariemiller.co.uk. I love connecting with my readers and can be found on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram as @tinseymiller.
August 24, 2019
A reader might assume that with a title like "Everything Happens for a Reason," that pitfalls and tribulations await the main characters- and correctly so. Although the author initially lulled me into believing this was just another "rich guy gets the gal" tale, an early twist or two soon puts that thought to rest. Poppy Jackson, the main character, is a young single woman- intelligent and successful. The author does a deep dive into this character's personality using unique glimpses into her multiple relationships, both personal and professional. The result is a three dimensional character that I soon found myself cheering for. When we meet Poppy, she appears more focused on the pursuit of her career than on her love life, yet love finds her. But all is not as it seems and things DO indeed happen for a reason. Potential for spoilers here, so suffice to say that a roller coaster ride of hardship, joy and grief awaits Poppy on her journey. There's family warmth and support as well as betrayal. Misunderstandings conspire to thwart her happiness, and bizarre coincidences ensue to keep the reader on their toes. If you enjoy warm romances seasoned with the brutal realities of life, I trust this novel by Tina-Marie Miller will be right up your alley.
October 29, 2020
I really enjoyed this book! It was the perfect getaway from all that is going on in the world.
Beautifully crafted, Poppy Jackson's story came together in ways I didn't expect. After two tragedies, rebuilding her life wasn't as easy as it could have been. While I don't like giving away plots in reviews, I can say that what I truly appreciated in this story was that the author didn't rush to conclusions, and that events unfolded naturally … and with unexpected humor. In fact, I quite appreciated the author's humor … which made me laugh out loud in a few places. Very clever with just a dash of snark.
This delightful book is very well written, well paced, and filled with characters you'd enjoy knowing … and yeah, maybe with one in particular you'd like to stay far away. I was never sure exactly where it was going … I just enjoyed the ride.
Tell-tale sign I loved the book: I've just finished and I already want to know how things are going for the characters.
Beautifully crafted, Poppy Jackson's story came together in ways I didn't expect. After two tragedies, rebuilding her life wasn't as easy as it could have been. While I don't like giving away plots in reviews, I can say that what I truly appreciated in this story was that the author didn't rush to conclusions, and that events unfolded naturally … and with unexpected humor. In fact, I quite appreciated the author's humor … which made me laugh out loud in a few places. Very clever with just a dash of snark.
This delightful book is very well written, well paced, and filled with characters you'd enjoy knowing … and yeah, maybe with one in particular you'd like to stay far away. I was never sure exactly where it was going … I just enjoyed the ride.
Tell-tale sign I loved the book: I've just finished and I already want to know how things are going for the characters.
October 18, 2017
Everything Happens for a Reason looks at the life of a young lady, who works as a PA to the owner of a plush investment firm. Poppy is a quiet and somewhat shy lass, and is charmed by a client, after which, romance blossoms, until Oli’s sudden death, and life changes dramatically for Poppy, who is left pregnant.
The intricacies of the plot are perfectly timed, and the characters thoroughly engaging and real. We, as readers, join Poppy in her struggles and feel her pain, which is skillfully done by author Miller.
One character I felt desperately sorry for, which merely added to the overall feel of the book, giving it yet another dimension. This book is beautifully written, with a great storyline that keeps the reader engaged, and excellent characters that one feels one knows. I would never hesitate to recommend this book, and when other follow, I shall read them also!
August 4, 2017
I was lucky enough to win a copy of this book in a competition.
This author is new to me and I thoroughly enjoyed the read. It follows the life of Poppy Jackson. She appears to have everything. Great job, doting father, wonderful friends and an amazing fiancé. But then everything in her world starts to fall apart and I found myself crying on her behalf and wondering how she’d ever survive. But she does and as the title states, Everything Happens for a Reason.
I love the way the author draws you in and leaves you guessing right until near the end of the book. I look forward to reading more of her work.
This author is new to me and I thoroughly enjoyed the read. It follows the life of Poppy Jackson. She appears to have everything. Great job, doting father, wonderful friends and an amazing fiancé. But then everything in her world starts to fall apart and I found myself crying on her behalf and wondering how she’d ever survive. But she does and as the title states, Everything Happens for a Reason.
I love the way the author draws you in and leaves you guessing right until near the end of the book. I look forward to reading more of her work.
March 19, 2021
Heartwarming romance. Looking forward to reading more from this author in what appears to be a new “village” series. This made me laugh, cry and smile as I joined Poppy on her journey through more than her fair share of heartbreak, career success, motherhood and new adventures in the Hamptons.
On a side note the edition I had was a lovely artistic cover. The newer editions (I have now read all 3 books to date - March 2021) have now got photographic covers - I doubt I would’ve chosen the books on a shelf with the new covers.
On a side note the edition I had was a lovely artistic cover. The newer editions (I have now read all 3 books to date - March 2021) have now got photographic covers - I doubt I would’ve chosen the books on a shelf with the new covers.
March 4, 2021
Touching and surprising
Miller takes on a difficult subject in ‘Everything Happens for a Reason’. This is a narrative about bereavement and learning to live again. She analyses family ties, conflicts, and deep affection in a thoughtful narrative that touches the reader and opens for discussions. On top of this, Miller’s prose flows artlessly. A poignant book that’s well worth reading. Highly recommended.
Miller takes on a difficult subject in ‘Everything Happens for a Reason’. This is a narrative about bereavement and learning to live again. She analyses family ties, conflicts, and deep affection in a thoughtful narrative that touches the reader and opens for discussions. On top of this, Miller’s prose flows artlessly. A poignant book that’s well worth reading. Highly recommended.
April 3, 2020
I thoroughly enjoyed this first book in The Hamptons series. Tina-Marie Miller is a brilliant author and this book had me chuckling in places and crying in others while desperately hoping for a happy ending for Poppy Jackson I loved Reverend Fisher and Poppy's good friend Sally. Get yourself this book then settle down and enjoy it. Highly recommended. Five stars
October 11, 2017
This book is true inspiration to women in my opinion. In this book we have strong confident characters that deal with issues in their life. Poppy is one of those main characters that has the strength to overcome her pain in her life. A must read for any and all book lovers everywhere.
March 27, 2018
A good debut novel for Tina-Marie Miller. It’s what I would class as a cozy romantic story. Following Poppy through her Trials and Loves. Engrossing captivating storyline to keep you going until the end. Entertaining enjoyable read. I recommend this endearing book.
August 16, 2017
I was instantly drawn to Poppy. The book is well written and the main characters are realistic, as is the story. The plot stirred mixed emotions something that makes a read most enjoyable.
August 19, 2019
Good read
June 5, 2022
Charming & Heartwarming Women’s Fiction
I thoroughly enjoyed my reading stay in the Cotswolds, courtesy of the author’s well-written and cleverly plotted story centered on an inspiring female protagonist. Poppy Jackson is independent, spunky, fun-loving, kind, and resilient.
Indeed, everything does happen for a reason in this well-paced story grounded in details, tragedy, misunderstandings, contention, light bawdiness, and credible characters ranging from delightful to despicable.
I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough to see how situations would unfold, spun as they were from the intertwining of several characters. Then again, Reverend Fisher expedites matters.
A highly recommended must-read!
I thoroughly enjoyed my reading stay in the Cotswolds, courtesy of the author’s well-written and cleverly plotted story centered on an inspiring female protagonist. Poppy Jackson is independent, spunky, fun-loving, kind, and resilient.
Indeed, everything does happen for a reason in this well-paced story grounded in details, tragedy, misunderstandings, contention, light bawdiness, and credible characters ranging from delightful to despicable.
I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough to see how situations would unfold, spun as they were from the intertwining of several characters. Then again, Reverend Fisher expedites matters.
A highly recommended must-read!
August 15, 2017
I truly enjoyed Poppy’s story! Poppy’s adventure through was will written and not your usual chick lit that is staged. I found it to be a light read with unexpected twists and challenges in Poppy’s life. Being career driven but also seeking and wanting the love found in a marriage and family Poppy faces many ups and downs but always comes out strong. Between Poppy’s memories of her mom and past and looking towards the future, this story was one many of us face daily.
Tina-Marie did an excellent job in creating her characters and plot planning was incredible by showing us two sides of life, one in the city and one in the country which kept things rolling smoothly throughout the book. She wrote this has if it was everyday life for many of us to relate too.
The cover is what actually caught my eye on Twitter. The bright colors and illustration gave me the feeling of a warm, clean read and that is exactly what I received. I would recommend this book to anyone who is looking for an adventurous story about life, love, and everything else.
Tina-Marie did an excellent job in creating her characters and plot planning was incredible by showing us two sides of life, one in the city and one in the country which kept things rolling smoothly throughout the book. She wrote this has if it was everyday life for many of us to relate too.
The cover is what actually caught my eye on Twitter. The bright colors and illustration gave me the feeling of a warm, clean read and that is exactly what I received. I would recommend this book to anyone who is looking for an adventurous story about life, love, and everything else.
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