What do you think?
Rate this book
A Year of New Adventures
The new laugh-out-loud novel from Maddie Please, author of The Summer of Second Chances.
Billie Summers has always been quite content in her little cottage in the Cotswolds. Sure, half the house hasn’t been renovated, but what’s the point when it’s only her? Working part-time at her uncle’s bookshop and planning writer retreats with her best friend allows her to pay the bills. What more could anyone want?
That is until Oliver Forest, the bad boy of the book world, turns up to one of her retreats and points out that Billie hasn’t done anything very adventurous. Couple that with her best friend falling head over heels and beginning to drift away from their Friday night wine and dinner plans, Billie is starting to wonder if it isn’t time she took control of her life.
So she starts a list: get fitted (properly) for a bra, fix up rest of house, find a ‘career’ and well, get a tattoo … Her life might just get the makeover it needs, too bad irritating and far-too-attractive for his own good, Oliver keeps showing up …
Because sometimes you need an adventure!
Billie Summers has always been quite content in her little cottage in the Cotswolds. Sure, half the house hasn’t been renovated, but what’s the point when it’s only her? Working part-time at her uncle’s bookshop and planning writer retreats with her best friend allows her to pay the bills. What more could anyone want?
That is until Oliver Forest, the bad boy of the book world, turns up to one of her retreats and points out that Billie hasn’t done anything very adventurous. Couple that with her best friend falling head over heels and beginning to drift away from their Friday night wine and dinner plans, Billie is starting to wonder if it isn’t time she took control of her life.
So she starts a list: get fitted (properly) for a bra, fix up rest of house, find a ‘career’ and well, get a tattoo … Her life might just get the makeover it needs, too bad irritating and far-too-attractive for his own good, Oliver keeps showing up …
Because sometimes you need an adventure!
400 pages, Paperback
First published February 5, 2018
290 people are currently reading
324 people want to read
About the author
Maddie Please
22 books222 followersMaddie Please was born in Dorset, brought up in Worcestershire and went to University in Cardiff.
After a career as a dentist Maddie now lives in Devon with her exceptionally handsome and supportive husband. They have 4 adult-ish children all of whom have left home and are probably rather surprised by all this. She did warn them.
Maddie is a voracious reader, and would enjoy hoovering, defrosting the fridge and cleaning the windows but unfortunately she doesn't really have time. She is very disciplined and sensible about her writing and she likes to write every day because it gets her out of doing the ironing.
After a career as a dentist Maddie now lives in Devon with her exceptionally handsome and supportive husband. They have 4 adult-ish children all of whom have left home and are probably rather surprised by all this. She did warn them.
Maddie is a voracious reader, and would enjoy hoovering, defrosting the fridge and cleaning the windows but unfortunately she doesn't really have time. She is very disciplined and sensible about her writing and she likes to write every day because it gets her out of doing the ironing.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
January 7, 2018
This was my first book by this author and will not be the last I absolutely loved it from the first page and was hooked with great characters and storylines. If you love books they you are well away when there are so many different writers in this book. Excellent book to curl up to and get totally hooked from the first page and wants you reading more to see what happens. Totally excellent book would love a follow on.
Billie has split with her boyfriend and really isn't sure about herself she goes with a friend on a writers retreat and she isn't cooking for everyone while there. She is looking forward to it till Oliver arrives and is snappy, rude and selfish from the moment he arrives at the retreat. He stays in his room and every time bilie tries to speak he is rude to her and the others as he says they are making to much noise she is so unsure of him yet has strong feeling at the same time that she is trying to push aside. She goes back home and her job in the bookshop is finished for a time as it's flooded and she's so unsure what she wants to do until she gets a phone call from olivers PA asking her to go away and do all the cooking for a group on a retreat she accepts thinking it's in wales but soon learns it's in America and she still finds Oliver rude and can't understand him at all. When she comes home she is given the idea to turn her spare room in to a room where authors can come and write in peace and quiet can she make a go of this and when someone she wasn't expecting turns up how does she take it and can she find romance or is it just something she can't do.
This is an excellent read perfect easy read with plenty of romance and books highly recommend.
Billie has split with her boyfriend and really isn't sure about herself she goes with a friend on a writers retreat and she isn't cooking for everyone while there. She is looking forward to it till Oliver arrives and is snappy, rude and selfish from the moment he arrives at the retreat. He stays in his room and every time bilie tries to speak he is rude to her and the others as he says they are making to much noise she is so unsure of him yet has strong feeling at the same time that she is trying to push aside. She goes back home and her job in the bookshop is finished for a time as it's flooded and she's so unsure what she wants to do until she gets a phone call from olivers PA asking her to go away and do all the cooking for a group on a retreat she accepts thinking it's in wales but soon learns it's in America and she still finds Oliver rude and can't understand him at all. When she comes home she is given the idea to turn her spare room in to a room where authors can come and write in peace and quiet can she make a go of this and when someone she wasn't expecting turns up how does she take it and can she find romance or is it just something she can't do.
This is an excellent read perfect easy read with plenty of romance and books highly recommend.
August 2, 2022
Oh my goodness this book was so much fun!
Billie is just the most wonderful character and I absolutely adored her! She is single and works a few jobs to make ends meet of which one is running a writing retreat with her best friend. There is a real mixed bunch of people at the writing retreat where we first meet them all. I loved getting to know them all although Oliver is quite pompous and bad tempered yet Billie can’t seem to stop herself from developing a bit of a crush on him of which she lets her imagination go running wild!
Whilst this maybe a romance story, it’s also about Billie taking chances and pushing herself out of her comfort zone which result in some laugh out loud moments. The bad boy image that Oliver portrays had me going weak at the knees and I could feel the chemistry between both Oliver and Billie jumping out of the pages. I was also drooling at the mouth with all the wonderful mention of all the dishes that Billie prepares for her guests. Would certainly not recommend reading this on an empty stomach!
A Year of New Adventures is an immensely enjoyable read which had me laughing at Billie’s misfortunes. I just love this author’s story telling and have now nearly devoured all of her books since I came across them. They are highly entertaining, set in picturesque locations with the most relatable protagonists. What’s not to love? This one had me wanting to sign up to a writing retreat in the hope that I could experience the culinary joy that the guests in this book did as well as maybe have an Oliver of my own to swoon over. Don’t tell the hubby! A wonderfully fun read.
Billie is just the most wonderful character and I absolutely adored her! She is single and works a few jobs to make ends meet of which one is running a writing retreat with her best friend. There is a real mixed bunch of people at the writing retreat where we first meet them all. I loved getting to know them all although Oliver is quite pompous and bad tempered yet Billie can’t seem to stop herself from developing a bit of a crush on him of which she lets her imagination go running wild!
Whilst this maybe a romance story, it’s also about Billie taking chances and pushing herself out of her comfort zone which result in some laugh out loud moments. The bad boy image that Oliver portrays had me going weak at the knees and I could feel the chemistry between both Oliver and Billie jumping out of the pages. I was also drooling at the mouth with all the wonderful mention of all the dishes that Billie prepares for her guests. Would certainly not recommend reading this on an empty stomach!
A Year of New Adventures is an immensely enjoyable read which had me laughing at Billie’s misfortunes. I just love this author’s story telling and have now nearly devoured all of her books since I came across them. They are highly entertaining, set in picturesque locations with the most relatable protagonists. What’s not to love? This one had me wanting to sign up to a writing retreat in the hope that I could experience the culinary joy that the guests in this book did as well as maybe have an Oliver of my own to swoon over. Don’t tell the hubby! A wonderfully fun read.
February 9, 2018
All reviews can be found on my blog at https://thewritinggarnet.wordpress.com
I’m just going to get straight to the point – no need to beat around the bush now is there?
At the moment it takes a lot to make me smile. Now, before you go thinking that I am like a certain farmyard animal of the moooooooody variety, it takes a lot to make me smile because of many, many things. So, when I find myself with a massive grin on my face upon finishing a book, it’s safe to say that that particular storyline was something special. Yes, ‘A Year of New Adventures’ really is that ‘special something‘.
From getting to know Billie’s hilarious and addictive personality, to watching another farmyard animal of the mooooday variety attempt to take on someone with Billie’s personality. That alone was worth reading the book for, I mean come on! You don’t get on the wrong side of someone like Billie – she would eat you for breakfast!! (Once she’s cooked you first of course!).
Oliver Forest came across as the typical, self obsessed male who thought his poo didn’t stink, alongside having opinions which, according to Mr ‘I Have No Manners’, were far more important than those of the people around him. Yes, I did think to myself on more than one occasion, ‘what an absolute twonk’. However, I gave him another chance because I’m such a nosy reader, and left his memorable personality try to win me over.
I saw a lot of myself in Billie, and at times, that was quite difficult to read. I admired her get up and go, yet I felt sad because of the way she viewed herself, deeming herself unworthy of happiness just like everybody else. Along the way it was made clear that Billie thought a lot about what other people thought of her, yet wasn’t able to take into consideration what she loved about her own self, despite being willing to make changes due to other people’s comments. That made me sad. Why? Because we all know someone like that, even if it’s ourselves, but to read it black and white hits home a lot harder than just thinking about it whilst you brush your teeth.
I absolutely loved everything about this book – it made me laugh, made me smile, ignited a fire in my belly which I thought had been put out a long time ago, whilst also making me believe.
If I could give this book more than 5 stars I would, and not just because it made me laugh, but because it gave me hope that through the rain, the sun is always bound to shine.
A beautiful, heartfelt and touching novel – I recommend this to everyone and anyone who wishes to have their face aching through smiling. Just fantastic.
I’m just going to get straight to the point – no need to beat around the bush now is there?
At the moment it takes a lot to make me smile. Now, before you go thinking that I am like a certain farmyard animal of the moooooooody variety, it takes a lot to make me smile because of many, many things. So, when I find myself with a massive grin on my face upon finishing a book, it’s safe to say that that particular storyline was something special. Yes, ‘A Year of New Adventures’ really is that ‘special something‘.
From getting to know Billie’s hilarious and addictive personality, to watching another farmyard animal of the mooooday variety attempt to take on someone with Billie’s personality. That alone was worth reading the book for, I mean come on! You don’t get on the wrong side of someone like Billie – she would eat you for breakfast!! (Once she’s cooked you first of course!).
Oliver Forest came across as the typical, self obsessed male who thought his poo didn’t stink, alongside having opinions which, according to Mr ‘I Have No Manners’, were far more important than those of the people around him. Yes, I did think to myself on more than one occasion, ‘what an absolute twonk’. However, I gave him another chance because I’m such a nosy reader, and left his memorable personality try to win me over.
I saw a lot of myself in Billie, and at times, that was quite difficult to read. I admired her get up and go, yet I felt sad because of the way she viewed herself, deeming herself unworthy of happiness just like everybody else. Along the way it was made clear that Billie thought a lot about what other people thought of her, yet wasn’t able to take into consideration what she loved about her own self, despite being willing to make changes due to other people’s comments. That made me sad. Why? Because we all know someone like that, even if it’s ourselves, but to read it black and white hits home a lot harder than just thinking about it whilst you brush your teeth.
I absolutely loved everything about this book – it made me laugh, made me smile, ignited a fire in my belly which I thought had been put out a long time ago, whilst also making me believe.
If I could give this book more than 5 stars I would, and not just because it made me laugh, but because it gave me hope that through the rain, the sun is always bound to shine.
A beautiful, heartfelt and touching novel – I recommend this to everyone and anyone who wishes to have their face aching through smiling. Just fantastic.
February 8, 2018
Billie Summers is a frustrated author (or not). She's been trying to write an historical romance for years without success. In the interim she's held a series of short-term minimum skills jobs. At present she is working part-time in her uncle's book shop, making cakes to order and hosting writers retreats.
Billie and her BFF host a writer's retreat for a group of writers. Unfortunately one of them is a best-selling author who thinks the world owes him a living and acts like a prima donna. With his commandeering the room on the ground floor, demanding food at specified times, sneering at the food on offer and inhaling coffee all the time Oliver Frost is the worst imaginable guest and a PITA.
I really enjoyed this, it was funny, clever and like wallowing in a bath of high grade chocolate.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Billie and her BFF host a writer's retreat for a group of writers. Unfortunately one of them is a best-selling author who thinks the world owes him a living and acts like a prima donna. With his commandeering the room on the ground floor, demanding food at specified times, sneering at the food on offer and inhaling coffee all the time Oliver Frost is the worst imaginable guest and a PITA.
I really enjoyed this, it was funny, clever and like wallowing in a bath of high grade chocolate.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
January 19, 2018
Billie organises a writing retreat with her friend and they get a mixed bunch of authors. One turns out to be quite well known but very brusque. I loved the sound of the retreat- the authors share experiences and get inspiration from others. Surprisingly Oliver is quite helpful after hearing them read from their current work in progress.
Maddie is told that she should make some new experiences and memories and it does actually make her sit up and think about her future. When her part time job becomes unavailable when she gets back she decides to offer her spare bedroom out for more personal writing retreats. I loved the sound of the bedroom and writing room. I could just imagine spending a few days somewhere peaceful - especially if I was capable of writing a best seller myself.
She has some interesting characters and inbetween she tries to tick off some items on her bucket list.
There are some lovely sparks of romance. The characters are well drawn- so you feel that you get to know them well.
Maddie is told that she should make some new experiences and memories and it does actually make her sit up and think about her future. When her part time job becomes unavailable when she gets back she decides to offer her spare bedroom out for more personal writing retreats. I loved the sound of the bedroom and writing room. I could just imagine spending a few days somewhere peaceful - especially if I was capable of writing a best seller myself.
She has some interesting characters and inbetween she tries to tick off some items on her bucket list.
There are some lovely sparks of romance. The characters are well drawn- so you feel that you get to know them well.
December 24, 2017
A Year in New Adventures was a delightful narrative directed by Miss Billie Summers’ original thoughts and quirks. A mothering sort, Billie’s take on life as an almost-30 single white female is filled with quirky humor and warm sentiment as she navigates her independence in picking a new career, love and life. It was a delight to see Billie slowly change her life and be her authentic self in all moments of smallness and bigness. All characters played an integral part in bolstering up Billie, and their dynamic in conversation made a natural flow for the reader to take part in.
As Billie was such an entertaining character to discover (as she was discovering herself), I felt the ending came and I was unprepared. I wanted more time spent in Billie’s head planning writing retreats and participating in banter with cranky, borderline alcoholic writers. I can cope with the loss by envisioning a sequel.
As Billie was such an entertaining character to discover (as she was discovering herself), I felt the ending came and I was unprepared. I wanted more time spent in Billie’s head planning writing retreats and participating in banter with cranky, borderline alcoholic writers. I can cope with the loss by envisioning a sequel.
March 4, 2018
Another fab read from Maddie Please. Billie Summers is a lovely, caring and funny character to spend time with. I smiled, chuckled, snorted and laughed out loud as I read. What a treat!
Maddie Please's witty sense of humour, and the real heart she puts into her characters, make this a delight to read.
Maddie Please's witty sense of humour, and the real heart she puts into her characters, make this a delight to read.
February 12, 2018
Close to thirty, no real job, career or relationship and a need to find something that pays the bills and is more than part-time, Sybilla (Billie) Summers and her best friend and librarian, Helena have started organizing ‘writer’s retreats’ where authors can get away from the norm, write, meet other writers and come away feeling as if progress has been made. Part of Billie’s interest in these retreats is her own desire to write, even though she’s never quite organized herself enough in the past eleven years to make much progress. But, that’s rather Billie’s way – she meanders through things: a list of unfinished projects, unfulfilled goals and a general sense of walking without purpose seems to be her lot in life: always just making the pieces fall together to survive.
Oliver Forest, the only truly difficult author ever to attend her writer’s retreat has gotten under her skin: his good looks set her mind into fantasy, his arrogance and attitude have her angry. And when she returns home after the retreat, with Helena having found a love interest in one of the authors, and she facing unemployment with her uncle’s bookshop being flooded: she’s rushing about to find her next step with bills due and a car that is on the last legs. When a telephone call comes from Oliver’s PA offering her an opportunity to cook for 5 people for 4 days, all expenses paid, she grabs at the offer and is soon whisked off to Ludlow Vermont to cook for Oliver, his PA, his agent and his US publisher. Time to flex her cooking skills and discover another side of Oliver: cooking and caring for the group and taking the idea of her writer’s retreats into something more. On returning home, she discovers that Oliver has shared her name (and an exorbitant day rate) with some of his author friends, and soon she is clearing out her spare and box rooms, digging out linens and paint, preparing a ‘specialized’ escape for writers in need. Each person has some wonderful anecdote or praise for Oliver, and Billie understands that she now can make a business doing what she enjoys. But still, the contact with Oliver is non-existent, even as she tries to convince herself that she doesn’t mind.
Of course you know there has to be an ending that makes things work out for Billie, and what she wants is something with Oliver. And we do get there, after some lovely moments with new and quirky authors, a scare with her Uncle’s health, the constant presence of ‘notmycat’ and Billie’s rather scattered approach to everything in her life except when cooking, the story brings the ending you’d hope for in spades. It’s just an interesting journey to get there: a bit unfocused in the progression (much like Billie herself) with plenty of sidetrips to visit with secondary characters, complaints and struggles with her mother, her Uncle’s relationship and shop, and even a return of the boyfriend who badly misused her. Through it all, there is a sense that Billie will soon be moving on to the next thing, and her ability to provide authors with the sort of care and an ear that is friendly and open, making her little ‘retreat’ venture a true growing concern especially with all of the good word of mouth from well-known, best-selling authors. With a grand gesture (delayed with her Uncle’s bout of appendicitis) and yet another limo ride that drops her at Heathrow without much explanation, the story is a perfect curl up with tea and escape sort of read. Just don’t use the ‘travelogue’ from Logan to Ludlow – you’ll have the longest and most unlikely route: much in the wrong direction, if scenic.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review: all conclusions are my own responsibility. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
Oliver Forest, the only truly difficult author ever to attend her writer’s retreat has gotten under her skin: his good looks set her mind into fantasy, his arrogance and attitude have her angry. And when she returns home after the retreat, with Helena having found a love interest in one of the authors, and she facing unemployment with her uncle’s bookshop being flooded: she’s rushing about to find her next step with bills due and a car that is on the last legs. When a telephone call comes from Oliver’s PA offering her an opportunity to cook for 5 people for 4 days, all expenses paid, she grabs at the offer and is soon whisked off to Ludlow Vermont to cook for Oliver, his PA, his agent and his US publisher. Time to flex her cooking skills and discover another side of Oliver: cooking and caring for the group and taking the idea of her writer’s retreats into something more. On returning home, she discovers that Oliver has shared her name (and an exorbitant day rate) with some of his author friends, and soon she is clearing out her spare and box rooms, digging out linens and paint, preparing a ‘specialized’ escape for writers in need. Each person has some wonderful anecdote or praise for Oliver, and Billie understands that she now can make a business doing what she enjoys. But still, the contact with Oliver is non-existent, even as she tries to convince herself that she doesn’t mind.
Of course you know there has to be an ending that makes things work out for Billie, and what she wants is something with Oliver. And we do get there, after some lovely moments with new and quirky authors, a scare with her Uncle’s health, the constant presence of ‘notmycat’ and Billie’s rather scattered approach to everything in her life except when cooking, the story brings the ending you’d hope for in spades. It’s just an interesting journey to get there: a bit unfocused in the progression (much like Billie herself) with plenty of sidetrips to visit with secondary characters, complaints and struggles with her mother, her Uncle’s relationship and shop, and even a return of the boyfriend who badly misused her. Through it all, there is a sense that Billie will soon be moving on to the next thing, and her ability to provide authors with the sort of care and an ear that is friendly and open, making her little ‘retreat’ venture a true growing concern especially with all of the good word of mouth from well-known, best-selling authors. With a grand gesture (delayed with her Uncle’s bout of appendicitis) and yet another limo ride that drops her at Heathrow without much explanation, the story is a perfect curl up with tea and escape sort of read. Just don’t use the ‘travelogue’ from Logan to Ludlow – you’ll have the longest and most unlikely route: much in the wrong direction, if scenic.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review: all conclusions are my own responsibility. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
February 18, 2018
When I started reading A Year of New Adventures I thought I was absolutely going to love this story. Lets be honest it is about a aspiring writer who loves to cook. That kind of sounds right up my alley when we speak about things I like in contemporary romance. But while I was reading I soon discovered that this book was giving me some very mixed feelings. Some parts were quite brilliant and could have landed this book very high on my favorite contemporary list, but other parts made me cringe while reading.
Lets star of with the main character Billie! She is a very enjoyable character, a little bit of a mother figure, trying to take care of everybody in her life and sometimes forgetting about herself altogether. She is a sweet, compassionate woman who is still searching for her place in the world. She had a very distinctive sense of humor, that sometimes is spot on, but sometimes made me roll my eyes while reading. I really disliked the inner dialogues she had with herself. I know they were added as a funny note to the story, but for me they made it a bit juvenile. And that's quite a shame, because Billie had a brilliant sense of humor when she wasn't talking to herself.
Then there is the romance... because well A Year of New Adventures has of course a romantic story. A romantic story that really got up to speed in the last 50 pages or so. I didn't like the way the romance was handled in this story. There should have been more romance or not any at all. I understand that the focus of the story was about Billie finding herself and that only a sub-plot was about the romance. But now it just felt rushed, like she wanted to give the reader something at the very last part of her story. Really it is 350 pages of exploring who you are, cursing that bloody awful men with his dreamy body and than suddenly 50 pages of passion, attraction and emotions flying around. And don't get me wrong, I absolutely loved those 50 pages. That's why I think as a reader I was cheated out on some wonderful romance that could have enveloped the whole book. On the other hand I absolutely loved that Billie didn't need a man to find her true happiness.
I loved the ending! I can't say to much about it, because spoilers honey. But I could really appreciate that Maddie Please choose to make Billie an independent woman who chooses and works for her own happiness, without choosing the easy way out. Another lovely asset to the story is Not-My-Cat, Billies pet. Well not her pet. I love it when animals start to feel like a character in a story all on their own. And Not-My-Cat really added a little extra spice to the story.
All in all A Year of New Adventures was a decent read. Nothing outstanding, but overall fun and enjoyable. Ideal to spend a rainy day with a light book full of small delightful adventures.
Lets star of with the main character Billie! She is a very enjoyable character, a little bit of a mother figure, trying to take care of everybody in her life and sometimes forgetting about herself altogether. She is a sweet, compassionate woman who is still searching for her place in the world. She had a very distinctive sense of humor, that sometimes is spot on, but sometimes made me roll my eyes while reading. I really disliked the inner dialogues she had with herself. I know they were added as a funny note to the story, but for me they made it a bit juvenile. And that's quite a shame, because Billie had a brilliant sense of humor when she wasn't talking to herself.
Then there is the romance... because well A Year of New Adventures has of course a romantic story. A romantic story that really got up to speed in the last 50 pages or so. I didn't like the way the romance was handled in this story. There should have been more romance or not any at all. I understand that the focus of the story was about Billie finding herself and that only a sub-plot was about the romance. But now it just felt rushed, like she wanted to give the reader something at the very last part of her story. Really it is 350 pages of exploring who you are, cursing that bloody awful men with his dreamy body and than suddenly 50 pages of passion, attraction and emotions flying around. And don't get me wrong, I absolutely loved those 50 pages. That's why I think as a reader I was cheated out on some wonderful romance that could have enveloped the whole book. On the other hand I absolutely loved that Billie didn't need a man to find her true happiness.
I loved the ending! I can't say to much about it, because spoilers honey. But I could really appreciate that Maddie Please choose to make Billie an independent woman who chooses and works for her own happiness, without choosing the easy way out. Another lovely asset to the story is Not-My-Cat, Billies pet. Well not her pet. I love it when animals start to feel like a character in a story all on their own. And Not-My-Cat really added a little extra spice to the story.
All in all A Year of New Adventures was a decent read. Nothing outstanding, but overall fun and enjoyable. Ideal to spend a rainy day with a light book full of small delightful adventures.
January 26, 2018
I'm very torn between 3.5 & 4 stars for this book but after reading some very brilliant 5 Star books recently I had to be fair.
29 year old Billie Summers is organising a writer retreat when a difficult guest turns out to be someone famous and influential, this triggers an overhaul for Billie (who seems somewhat cast adrift and stagnant in her 'safe' life) and so commences a year of changes and new adventures.
This is a book about chance encounters, being brave and true to yourself in your journey of discovery.
Billie appears older than her years in many ways, which I know some young people can, I just felt it a bit difficult to connect with her on a really emotional level, and I am left wondering if this experience is because possibly the author is a bit older and wiser than 29 and the character portrayal reflects that? Anyway, it was hard for me at times to "feel" an emotional attachment to the characters, as sweet and funny as they were. Maybe I've just turned to stone.
However, there were some very amusing moments and I was caught laughing out loud several times which is a huge plus and Maddie Please's delivery of the humour is excellent, mostly from Billie's internal dialogue. The last 20% of the book really hooked me in and everything seemed to ramp up tremendously so this was such an enjoyable conclusion, with a window for more to the story.
My favourite character was the cheeky but charming Not My Cat who I think steals the show (as well as food but I think he gives Billie much in return in the end).
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this copy to review honestly.
29 year old Billie Summers is organising a writer retreat when a difficult guest turns out to be someone famous and influential, this triggers an overhaul for Billie (who seems somewhat cast adrift and stagnant in her 'safe' life) and so commences a year of changes and new adventures.
This is a book about chance encounters, being brave and true to yourself in your journey of discovery.
Billie appears older than her years in many ways, which I know some young people can, I just felt it a bit difficult to connect with her on a really emotional level, and I am left wondering if this experience is because possibly the author is a bit older and wiser than 29 and the character portrayal reflects that? Anyway, it was hard for me at times to "feel" an emotional attachment to the characters, as sweet and funny as they were. Maybe I've just turned to stone.
However, there were some very amusing moments and I was caught laughing out loud several times which is a huge plus and Maddie Please's delivery of the humour is excellent, mostly from Billie's internal dialogue. The last 20% of the book really hooked me in and everything seemed to ramp up tremendously so this was such an enjoyable conclusion, with a window for more to the story.
My favourite character was the cheeky but charming Not My Cat who I think steals the show (as well as food but I think he gives Billie much in return in the end).
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this copy to review honestly.
April 17, 2018
This is a fun hilarious romantic comedy your going to want to read with tea and cake.
Billie Summers has a boring life she's content, maybe a little too content with life. Time to shake things up a little now. Planning writers retreats and working at her Uncle's bookstore are now her thing. And you just never know which famous writers will turn up at those retreats. When bad boy Oliver Forest turns up at one of her retreats and she starts to lose her best friend to one of the writer's through flirtations is the friendship doomed? When she decides to make a to-do list to catch up on things she should have already done will these real life experiences make her a better person,more fun and entertaining to be around? Why does Oliver always seem to turn up though? Will here be a happily ever after for them ?
Pub Date 05 Feb 2018
I received a complimentary copy from Avon Books UK through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.
Billie Summers has a boring life she's content, maybe a little too content with life. Time to shake things up a little now. Planning writers retreats and working at her Uncle's bookstore are now her thing. And you just never know which famous writers will turn up at those retreats. When bad boy Oliver Forest turns up at one of her retreats and she starts to lose her best friend to one of the writer's through flirtations is the friendship doomed? When she decides to make a to-do list to catch up on things she should have already done will these real life experiences make her a better person,more fun and entertaining to be around? Why does Oliver always seem to turn up though? Will here be a happily ever after for them ?
Pub Date 05 Feb 2018
I received a complimentary copy from Avon Books UK through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.
February 23, 2018
As an author myself, and having attended various writer's retreats and courses, there was lots in this story to make me laugh. I love Maddie Please's humour - she gets you right inside the MC's head, and you're thinking all her runaway thoughts with her. Which means this book ought to carry a warning - don't read in public, as you may just laugh out loud...
I also love that this is a feel-good book with a happy ending - which I'm a sucker for.
I do wonder how much of it draws on Maddie's own experience at retreats? Remind me to be on my best behaviour if I ever manage to get on one, just in case I do something she can base another story on... ;)
I also love that this is a feel-good book with a happy ending - which I'm a sucker for.
I do wonder how much of it draws on Maddie's own experience at retreats? Remind me to be on my best behaviour if I ever manage to get on one, just in case I do something she can base another story on... ;)
February 6, 2018
Billie Summers hasn't really got going, her career is non existent, her last relationship ended in betrayal, her house is mess but she does have the best BF. Together the friends run writing retreats and one of these is attended by a BIG NAME AUTHOR who is a pain in the neck but rather handsome. Billie makes a list of things she wants to do and sets about doing them.
A Year of New Adventures is a laugh out loud story of self discovery and love. Who could not like a heroine who wears silver lace up brogues and has been adopted by 'NotMyCat'.
A Year of New Adventures is a laugh out loud story of self discovery and love. Who could not like a heroine who wears silver lace up brogues and has been adopted by 'NotMyCat'.
June 26, 2018
Billie is content in her life, she works at her uncle’s bookshop and plans writer retreats with her best friend. While hosting another retreat for a group of writers, there’s a best-selling author among them. Oliver is not as friendly and welcoming as others and challenges Billie, therefore Billie decides to write a list of things she hasn’t done yet, but wants to. Billie is slowly fulfilling her list, but the mysterious Oliver keeps showing up.
It was my first book by the author, but after reading this book I know I’ll read more, because I really enjoyed this story. It was humorous, relatable and sweet story.
It was my first book by the author, but after reading this book I know I’ll read more, because I really enjoyed this story. It was humorous, relatable and sweet story.
April 16, 2019
As well as being warm and witty, and at times downright funny, this is a story with heart. Billie, the heroine, is likable and easy to relate to. Her journey of self-discovery, as she tries to turn her life around and set out in a fresh direction, is a highly entertaining read. Maddie Please has created a lovely cast of supporting characters, not least 'Not My Cat.' A highly enjoyable, cosy, feel-good read.
December 28, 2018
I was just looking for a light read and this one satisfied in many ways. A likable protagonist who never appreciates herself quite enough and looks to change things up. One might call it a formulaic romance, but it is well-written and enjoyable. The setting and circumstances are a treat. It's one of those books you can curl up with on a rainy day and zip through it in one fell swoop. You'll probably be able to predict how it will turn out, but it's no less fun getting to that point. Highly recommended.
March 1, 2018
The cover of this book, as well as the title, definitely intrigued me so I requested this beautiful book from the NetGalley and it was just the perfect escape for the cold month of the year.
I love Weddings, and as the wedding season approaches us, we are bombarded by books with wedding/spring theme.
The Wedding Island is a very charming book with lovable characters ( you can't help to root for) vibrant surroundings and a big sprinkle of magic, and you have a very intriguing place or island where suddenly everyone wants to get married. The wedding Island has everything you possibly need for a spectacular wedding, but there is a considerable mystery surrounding the place and our heroine, Bonnie is determined to find out, but she will have to do it in a company of a handsome rival.
Bonnie loves a wedding, and that is why she works for a wedding magazine, but her favourite magazine is under threat, and Bonnie has a chance to save it and write a fabulous piece about this mysterious Edelweiss Island.
I loved reading about Bonnie and her fellow journalist Rohan Carter. The way there went about to find out every little detail about the famous island.
I also love the residents of Edelweiss island and their suspicious yet caring nature.
The Wedding Island is a book written for a movie. I really could not help to giggle through the whole story, and I am still smiling while writing my review. Just fabulous romantic escapism.
I love Weddings, and as the wedding season approaches us, we are bombarded by books with wedding/spring theme.
The Wedding Island is a very charming book with lovable characters ( you can't help to root for) vibrant surroundings and a big sprinkle of magic, and you have a very intriguing place or island where suddenly everyone wants to get married. The wedding Island has everything you possibly need for a spectacular wedding, but there is a considerable mystery surrounding the place and our heroine, Bonnie is determined to find out, but she will have to do it in a company of a handsome rival.
Bonnie loves a wedding, and that is why she works for a wedding magazine, but her favourite magazine is under threat, and Bonnie has a chance to save it and write a fabulous piece about this mysterious Edelweiss Island.
I loved reading about Bonnie and her fellow journalist Rohan Carter. The way there went about to find out every little detail about the famous island.
I also love the residents of Edelweiss island and their suspicious yet caring nature.
The Wedding Island is a book written for a movie. I really could not help to giggle through the whole story, and I am still smiling while writing my review. Just fabulous romantic escapism.
February 17, 2018
This was my second book from this Author. It had a great story line and was very funny. Maddie Please is my new favorite Author!
April 2, 2018
Great read!
I can so relate to Billie and her feeling a bit lost in life. I love how she truly finds her way and then also gets the guy without compromising herself in the process. Such an engaging, humorous book. Definitely a must read.
I can so relate to Billie and her feeling a bit lost in life. I love how she truly finds her way and then also gets the guy without compromising herself in the process. Such an engaging, humorous book. Definitely a must read.
January 6, 2019
Enjoyable Read
I really enjoyed this story, I couldn't put it down. Romantic reading & girl self discovery & girl empowerment. It goes to show adventures don't need to travelling or abseiling down a tall tower, it can simply be getting out of your comfort zone.
I really enjoyed this story, I couldn't put it down. Romantic reading & girl self discovery & girl empowerment. It goes to show adventures don't need to travelling or abseiling down a tall tower, it can simply be getting out of your comfort zone.
April 22, 2019
Great read
First time reading a book by this author. Really enjoyed it and will look out for more. I couldn't wait to see what was going to happen .
First time reading a book by this author. Really enjoyed it and will look out for more. I couldn't wait to see what was going to happen .
July 23, 2019
An unusual start to a storyline.
Billie & her best friend Helena run retreats for writers.
Inbetween doing this Billie works part-time in her Uncles' bookshop & Helena has a full-time office job.
At one of these retreats, they meet Oliver Forest, a really successful author, whose on a deadline to finish his latest book.
He's rude, obnoxious & wants everything his own way & is not keen to join in with the other writers. But he keeps turning up in her life, sporadically, like a bad penny.
However, he does recommend Billies' services to his literary friends & she gets other recommendations from those writers.
So starts her solo retreat business at her own cottage.
I really enjoyed this book.
I'm looking forward to many more books from Maddie & can't wait for her next one.
Billie & her best friend Helena run retreats for writers.
Inbetween doing this Billie works part-time in her Uncles' bookshop & Helena has a full-time office job.
At one of these retreats, they meet Oliver Forest, a really successful author, whose on a deadline to finish his latest book.
He's rude, obnoxious & wants everything his own way & is not keen to join in with the other writers. But he keeps turning up in her life, sporadically, like a bad penny.
However, he does recommend Billies' services to his literary friends & she gets other recommendations from those writers.
So starts her solo retreat business at her own cottage.
I really enjoyed this book.
I'm looking forward to many more books from Maddie & can't wait for her next one.
August 13, 2019
Loved this book! Knew, hopefully, how this would end but enjoyed the 'trip' in the meantime. Interesting, funny, sad and so easy to read.
What a delight!
Thank you Maddie Please - this is the 2nd book of yours I have read and enjoyed immensely. Looking forward to reading more of your books over time.
Cheers
Heather
What a delight!
Thank you Maddie Please - this is the 2nd book of yours I have read and enjoyed immensely. Looking forward to reading more of your books over time.
Cheers
Heather
November 16, 2018
I bought this book through the BookBub website - didnt know what to expect beyond the blurb.
I was really happily surprised, this was a great book, easy to read with quite witty dialogue.
Have downloaded another of the author's books as it was so good.
I was really happily surprised, this was a great book, easy to read with quite witty dialogue.
Have downloaded another of the author's books as it was so good.
May 18, 2018
Light and frothy book. Enjoyed it very much. What happens when Billie and her friend run a writing week? It's funny and warm. I liked the voice of Billie and would read more by this author.
February 18, 2025
I enjoyed reading this book so, so much ! It was fun and exactly what I needed.
June 29, 2018
The heroine Billie, is great main lead and has many funny scenes and moments, the secondary characters are all enjoyable as well, would have liked to actually see more of Helena and other retreats. Overall a very pleasant, enjoyable read!
July 13, 2018
Feel good book of the summer!
Characters so endearingly flawed one can't help but love them. This book sheds light the human condition with a heroine who battles self esteem, weight, and a serious case of the bumbles, only to open her heart to a most unexpected person.
Characters so endearingly flawed one can't help but love them. This book sheds light the human condition with a heroine who battles self esteem, weight, and a serious case of the bumbles, only to open her heart to a most unexpected person.
December 28, 2018
I loved it. Billie is such a relatable character and so witty and funny. I'm so glad that she got her career and her guy. This was written so well and i loved so many of the points that Billie makes - like women being so self aware, unlike the made up chatacter from the story who had been stalked for 5 chapters.. I wish i could got to one of these retreats too! A perfect way to end my year and get ready for the nexy year! :)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 23, 2017
Overall a pretty cute read but the ending was strange and out of place. Enjoyed reading about Billie's life and new business. The relationship with Oliver was not well thought out or delivered in a clear way. Why would he fly back from Boston to the U.K. just to say hey I still like you and will be back next week? Surely that's what the phone is for.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews